AIRLESS HAIR DRYER

Abstract

AIRLESS HAIR DRYER An airless hair dryer including a body, a plurality of tines projecting from the body. Each tine of the plurality of tines includes a positive electrode and a negative electrode, where the positive electrodes and the negative electrodes of the plurality of tines are arranged in an alternating pattern. The airless hair dryer further includes a current source configured to generate alternating electric fields between each tine of the plurality of tines, where each alternating electric field is between a positive electrode of one tine and a negative electrode of an adjacent tine. Figure for abstract: none

Description

Title of the invention: AIRLESS HAIR DRYER SUMMARY

[0001] In one aspect, an airless hair dryer is disclosed herein, including a body, a plurality of teeth projecting from the body, each tooth of the plurality of teeth including a positive electrode and a negative electrode, where the positive electrodes and the negative electrodes of the plurality of teeth are arranged in an alternating pattern, and a current source configured to generate alternating electric fields between each tooth of the plurality of teeth, where each alternating electric field is between a positive electrode of one tooth and a negative electrode of an adjacent tooth.

[0002] In some embodiments, the plurality of teeth are arranged in a line. In some embodiments, the plurality of teeth are arranged in an array. In some embodiments, the adjacent tooth is one or more teeth directly adjacent to the tooth.

[0003] In some embodiments, the body comprises a cylinder. In some embodiments, the body includes a first face, a second face, and a clamping mechanism configured to bring the first face and the second face toward each other. In some embodiments, a plurality of teeth is located on the first face, the second face, or both the first face and the second face. In some embodiments, the plurality of teeth is located on a first side of the first face, a second side of the first face, a first side of the second face, a second side of the second face, or a combination thereof.

[0004] In some embodiments, the airless hair dryer includes a temperature sensor configured to sense a temperature of a scalp. In some embodiments, the airless hair dryer includes a steam sensor configured to detect dryness of the hair.

[0005] In some embodiments, each of the plurality of teeth includes a vapor sensor, each vapor sensor configured to detect scalp dryness, and when the dryness detected by the vapor sensor reaches or exceeds a dryness threshold, an alternating electric field of the respective of the plurality of teeth is deactivated.

[0006] In some embodiments, the airless hair dryer includes at least one infrared (IR) light emitting diode (LED) configured to further dry the hair.

[0007] In another aspect, a method of drying hair with the airless hair dryer described herein is disclosed. In some embodiments, the method includes moving the plurality of teeth through the hair, generating fields alternating electric fields between each of the plurality of teeth, where each alternating electric field is between a positive electrode of one tooth and a negative electrode of an adjacent tooth.

[0008] In some embodiments, the airless hair dryer includes a first face, a second face, and a clamping mechanism, and the method includes clamping the first face and the second face toward each other as the plurality of teeth are moved through the hair.

[0009] In some embodiments, the airless hair dryer includes a temperature sensor, and the method includes sensing a temperature of a scalp, and, when the temperature reaches or exceeds a temperature threshold, turning off the alternating electric fields.

[0010] In some embodiments, the temperature sensor is one of a plurality of temperature sensors, where each tine of the plurality of tines comprises a temperature sensor, and the method includes deactivating an alternating electric field of respective tines of the plurality of tines when a respective temperature sensor detects a scalp temperature that reaches or exceeds the temperature threshold.

[0011] In some embodiments, the airless hair dryer includes a steam sensor, and wherein the method includes detecting dryness of the hair, and when the temperature reaches or exceeds a dryness threshold, turning off the alternating electric field.

[0012] In some embodiments, the vapor sensor is one of a plurality of vapor sensors, where each tine of the plurality of tines comprises a vapor sensor, and the method includes deactivating the alternating electric field of respective tines of the plurality of tines when a respective vapor sensor detects hair dryness that reaches or exceeds the dryness threshold.

[0013] In some embodiments, the airless hair dryer includes at least one infrared (IR) light emitting diode (LED), and the method includes drying hair with the at least one IR LED. In some embodiments, the airless hair dryer includes at least one steam sensor and at least one IR LED, and the method further includes detecting a dryness of a scalp, when the dryness reaches or exceeds a dryness threshold, turning off the alternating electric field, and switching to drying the hair with the at least one IR LED.

[0014] In some embodiments, the method includes re-detecting scalp dryness, and when the dryness reaches or exceeds a second dryness threshold, turning off the at least one IR LED.

[0015] This summary is provided to present a selection of concepts in a simplified form which are described more fully below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify key features of the claimed subject matter or to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter. Description of the drawings

[0016] The foregoing aspects and numerous related advantages of this invention will be more readily appreciated as they are better understood with reference to the following detailed description, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0017] [Fig. IA] [Fig. IA] is an interior view of an exemplary airless hair dryer, in accordance with the present technology;

[0018] [Fig. 1B] [Fig. 1B] is another interior view of an exemplary airless hair dryer, in accordance with the present technology;

[0019] [Fig. 2A] [Fig. 2A] is a close-up view of two respective teeth of a plurality of teeth, in accordance with the present technology;

[0020] [Fig. 2B] [Fig. 2B] is a close-up view of a positive electrode of one tooth and a negative electrode of an adjacent tooth, in accordance with the present technology;

[0021] [Fig. 3A-3D] Figures 3A to 3D are perspective views of examples of airless hair dryers, in accordance with the present technology;

[0022] [Fig. 4A] [Fig. 4A] is an example of an airless hair dryer having a first face and a second face, in accordance with the present technology;

[0023] [Fig. 4B] [Fig. 4B] shows the first face and the second face of the airless hair dryer of [Fig. 4A] in contact with each other, in accordance with the present technology;

[0024] [Fig. 4C] [Fig. 4C] is one side of the airless hair dryer of [Fig. 4A], in accordance with the present technology;

[0025] [Fig. 5A] [Fig. 5A] is another example of an airless hair dryer having a first face and a second face, in accordance with the present technology;

[0026] [Fig. 5B] [Fig. 5B] shows the first face and the second face of the airless hair dryer of [Fig. 5A] in contact with each other, in accordance with the present technology;

[0027] [Fig. 5C] [Fig. 5C] is one side of the airless hair dryer of [Fig. 5A], in accordance with the present technology;

[0028] [Fig. 6A] [Fig. 6A] is another example of an airless hair dryer having a first face and a second face, in accordance with the present technology;

[0029] [Fig. 6B] [Fig. 6B] shows the first face and the second face of the airless hair dryer of [Fig. 6A] in contact with each other, in accordance with the present technology;

[0030] [Fig. 6C] [Fig. 6C] is one side of the airless hair dryer of [Fig. 6A], in accordance with the present technology;

[0031] [Fig.7] [Fig.7] is an example of a method of using an airless hair dryer, in accordance with the present technology;

[0032] [Fig.8] [Fig.8] is an example of a method of using an airless hair dryer with a temperature sensor, in accordance with the present technology;

[0033] [Fig.9] [Fig.9] is another example of a method of using an airless hair dryer, in accordance with the present technology;

[0034] [Fig. 10] [Fig. 10] is an example of a method of using an airless hair dryer with an infrared light emitting diode, in accordance with the present technology; and

[0035] [Fig. 11] [Fig. 11] is another example of a method of using an airless hair dryer with an infrared light emitting diode, in accordance with the present technology. Detailed description

[0036] Examples of airless hair dryers and methods of using the same are described herein. Generally, airless hair dryers are configured to dry a user's hair by generating alternating electric fields between each of a plurality of teeth located on a body of the airless hair dryer. Each of the plurality of teeth includes a positive electrode and a negative electrode. In some embodiments, the alternating electric fields are generated between a positive electrode (or negative electrode) of one tooth and a negative electrode (or positive electrode) of an adjacent tooth. The plurality of teeth can be arranged in many ways, including in a row or in a matrix.Depending on the arrangement of the positive and negative electrodes inside (or outside) each tooth, the alternating electric fields may be generated between each column of teeth in the tooth array, each row of teeth in the tooth array, both columns and rows of the tooth array, or along each diagonal line of the tooth array. In some embodiments, the airless hair dryer includes one or more sensors, such as a temperature sensor, a proximity sensor, and / or a steam sensor. Each sensor may measure a quality (such as temperature, proximity, or dryness) of the hair or a scalp. These measured qualities may be received by a processor on the airless hair dryer, configured to start, control, or terminate alternating electric field drying.In some embodiments, the airless hair dryer may include one or more alternative heating mechanisms, including heating plates, infrared light emitting diodes (LEDs). IR), and the like. These alternative heating mechanisms can be used before, during, after, or alternately with alternating electric fields.

[0037] [Fig. 1A] is an interior view of an exemplary airless hair dryer 100, in accordance with the present technology. In some embodiments, the airless hair dryer 100 is comb-shaped. In some embodiments, the airless hair dryer 100 includes a body 102, a plurality of teeth 105A, 105B, 105C... 105N, at least one temperature sensor 115, at least one steam sensor 120, at least one proximity sensor 125, a processor 130, a current source 135, and a power source 140.

[0038] In some embodiments, each tooth 105 of the plurality of teeth 105A, 105B, 105C includes a positive electrode HOA-i, 110A-ii and a negative electrode HOB-i, 110B-ii. In some embodiments, the positive electrodes 110A-i, 110A-ii and the negative electrodes 110B-i, 110B-ii are alternated within each tooth 105. In this manner, a negative electrode (such as the negative electrode 110B-i) of one tooth (such as tooth 105A) is adjacent to a positive electrode (such as the positive electrode 110A-ii) of an adjacent tooth (such as tooth 105B). In some embodiments, a first tooth and a last tooth on the airless hair dryer 100 may only include a negative electrode 110B or a positive electrode HOA-i, 110A-ii, respectively. In some embodiments, the plurality of teeth 105A, 105B, 105C... 105N are arranged in a line along the body 102 of the airless hair dryer 100.Although the positive electrodes 110A-i, 110A-ii are illustrated as being on the left side of each of the plurality of teeth 105A, 105B, 105C... 105N and the negative electrodes 110B-i, 110B-ii are illustrated as being on the right side of each of the plurality of teeth 105A, 105B, 105C... 105N, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the positive electrodes 110A-i, 110A-ii could be located on the right side and the negative electrodes 110B-i, 110B-ii could be located on the left side.

[0039] In some embodiments, the airless hair dryer 100 includes at least one temperature sensor 115. In some embodiments, the at least one temperature sensor 115 is located in at least one tine 105 of the plurality of tines 105A, 105B, 105C... 105N. In some embodiments, the temperature sensor 115 is configured to sense a temperature of a user's scalp.

[0040] In some embodiments, the airless hair dryer 100 includes at least one steam sensor 120 (also referred to herein as “the steam sensor” 120). In some embodiments, the steam sensor 120 is located in the body 102 of the airless hair dryer 100. In some embodiments, the steam sensor 120 is configured to sense a dryness level of the hair. In some embodiments of embodiment, the vapor sensor 120 is a capacitance sensor which converts capacitance into a humidity (or dryness level) reading.

[0041] In some embodiments, the airless hair dryer 100 includes at least one proximity sensor 125. In some embodiments, the proximity sensor 125 is located in at least one tine 105 of the plurality of tines 105A, 105B, 105C... 105N. In some embodiments, the proximity sensor 115 is configured to sense the distance between the plurality of tines 105A, 105B, 105C... 105N and a user's scalp. In some embodiments, the proximity sensor 115 is a contact sensor, configured to sense the user's scalp when the proximity sensor 115 touches the user's scalp.

[0042] The processor 130 may be located within the body 102 of the airless hair dryer 100. In some embodiments, the processor 130 is communicatively coupled to the temperature sensor 115, the steam sensor 120, and / or the proximity sensor 125. In some embodiments, the processor 130 is communicatively coupled to the current source 135, the power source 140, or both.

[0043] In some embodiments, the airless hair dryer 100 includes a current source 135. In some embodiments, the current source 135 is configured to generate alternating electric fields between a negative electrode (such as the negative electrode HOB-i) of a tooth 105 and a positive electrode (such as the positive electrode 110A-ii) of an adjacent tooth 105, as shown and described in Figures 2A and 2B. In some embodiments, the current source is a radio frequency (RF) generator.

[0044] In some embodiments, the airless hair dryer 100 includes a power source 140. In some embodiments, the power source 140 may be a battery. In some embodiments, the power source 140 may be a rechargeable battery or a single-use battery. In some embodiments, the power source 140 is removable from the body 102 of the airless hair dryer 100. In some embodiments, the power source 140 may include a wired connection (as shown in Figure 3A).

[0045] In operation, the current source 135 generates an alternating electric field between each tooth 105 of the plurality of teeth 105A, 105B, 105C... 105N. Specifically, the alternating electric fields are generated between each tooth, between a negative electrode 110A-i of one tooth 105A and a positive electrode 110A-ii of another tooth 105B, as shown in [Fig. 2A]. Because the positive electrodes 110A and the negative electrodes 110B are alternated in the plurality of teeth 105A, 105B, 105C... 105N, alternating electric fields can be generated between each tooth. In some embodiments, the electric fields alternating electric fields are 1 to 300 MHz in frequency. The alternating electric fields may be radio frequency (RF) fields. In some embodiments, the alternating electric fields are configured to dry hair, as illustrated and described in Figures 2A and 2B.

[0046] In some embodiments, the processor 130 is configured to give commands to the temperature sensor 115, the vapor sensor 120 and / or the proximity sensor 125. In some embodiments, the temperature sensor 115 measures a temperature of a user's scalp.

[0047] In some embodiments, the measured temperature is transmitted to the processor 130. In some embodiments, the processor 130 is configured to receive the measured temperature and determine whether the measured temperature reaches or exceeds a temperature threshold. In some embodiments, if the measured temperature reaches or exceeds the temperature threshold, the processor 130 is configured to turn off the airless hair dryer 100.

[0048] In some embodiments, the steam sensor 120 is configured to measure a dryness of the user's hair. In some embodiments, the measured dryness is transmitted to the processor 130. The processor 130 may compare the measured dryness to a dryness threshold. If the measured dryness reaches or exceeds the dryness threshold, the processor 130 may turn off the airless hair dryer.

[0049] In some embodiments, the proximity sensor 125 is configured to determine that the plurality of teeth 105A, 105B, 105C... 105N are in proximity to the hair and / or scalp of the user. In some embodiments, the proximity sensor 125 transmits a measured proximity to the hair and / or scalp of the user. In some embodiments, the processor 130 determines whether the measured proximity meets or exceeds a proximity threshold. If the measured proximity meets or exceeds the proximity threshold, the processor 130 commands the power source 135 to generate the alternating electric field. If the measured proximity is less than the proximity threshold, the processor 130 may command the power source 135 not to generate the alternating electric field and / or to stop generating the alternating electric field.In some embodiments, the processor 130 may alert or otherwise instruct the user to move the airless hair dryer 100 closer to the hair or scalp.

[0050] [Fig. 1B] is another interior view of an exemplary airless hair dryer 100, in accordance with the present technology. In some embodiments, the airless hair dryer 100 includes a body 102, a plurality of teeth 105A, 105B, 105C... 105N, a plurality of steam sensors 120A, 120B, 120C... 120N, at least one proximity sensor 125 located in the body 102, a processor 130, a current source 135, and a power source 140.

[0051] In some embodiments, the plurality of vapor sensors 120A, 120B, 120C... 120N may be located in the plurality of teeth 105A, 105B, 105C... 105N. In some embodiments, each tooth 105 of the plurality of teeth 105A, 105B, 105C... 105N includes a vapor sensor 120A, 120B, 120C... 120N. In some embodiments, one or more teeth 105 may not include a vapor sensor. In some embodiments, each vapor sensor of the plurality of vapor sensors 120A, 120B, 120C... 120N is located at the base of each tooth of the plurality of teeth 105A, 105B, 105C... 105N. This enables each of the plurality of steam sensors 120A, 120B, 120C...120N to measure the dryness of the hair as it is combed or brushed by the plurality of teeth 105A, 105B, 105C...105N.

[0052] In operation, when the airless hair dryer 100 is moved through the hair, each of the plurality of steam sensors 120A, 120B, 120C...120N can independently measure the dryness level of the hair. In some embodiments, the plurality of steam sensors 120A, 120B, 120C...120N are a plurality of capacitance sensors that convert the capacitance into a moisture (or dryness level) reading. In such embodiments, when a dryness measured from any one of the plurality of vapor sensors 120A, 120B, 120C...120N reaches or exceeds the dryness threshold, the processor 130 may instruct the current source to stop supplying current to the one of the plurality of teeth 105A, 105B, 105C...105N, including the vapor sensor that measured the dryness level that reaches or exceeds the dryness level threshold.In this manner, an alternating electric field will not be generated between the tooth and an adjacent one of the plurality of teeth 105A, 105B, 105C... 105N but will still be generated between all other teeth of the plurality of teeth 105A, 105B, 105C. In some embodiments, when even one vapor sensor of the plurality of vapor sensors 120A, 120B, 120C... 120N reaches or exceeds the dryness level threshold, the current source 135 stops generating the alternating electric fields to all teeth of the plurality of teeth 105A, 105B, 105C... 105N, i.e., stops supplying current to the plurality of teeth 105A, 105B, 105C... 105N.

[0053] [Fig. 2A] is a close-up view of two respective teeth 205A, 205B of a plurality of teeth, in accordance with the present technology. Teeth 205A, 205B may be single teeth within a plurality of teeth, as shown in Figures 1A and 1B. Tooth 205A may be referred to herein as “a tooth.” Those skilled in the art should understand that any tooth of the plurality of teeth described herein may be “a tooth.” Similarly, tooth 205B may be referred to herein as an “adjacent tooth.” Those skilled in the art should understand that any tooth directly adjacent to another tooth may be an “adjacent tooth.” Adjacent tooth 205B may be arranged in any direction from tooth 205A. In some embodiments, such as when the plurality of teeth are arranged in a line along the body (such as body 102, 302) of the airless hair dryer (such as airless hair dryer 100, 300), adjacent tooth 205B may be the next tooth in the line. In some embodiments, such as when the plurality of teeth are arranged in a matrix (as shown in Figures 3C-3D and 4A-5C), adjacent tooth 205B may be any or all of the teeth directly adjacent to tooth 205B. In such embodiments, adjacent tooth 205B may be the tooth in any of the eight cardinal directions from tooth 205A. In some embodiments, a tooth 205A may have multiple adjacent teeth 205B.When the plurality of teeth are arranged in a matrix, the adjacent tooth 205B may be a tooth in a same row of the matrix, a same column of the matrix, a same diagonal line of the matrix, or a combination thereof.

[0054] In some embodiments, the teeth 205A, 205B each include a positive electrode HOA-i, 110A-ii and a negative electrode HOB-i, 110B-ii. In some embodiments, the positive electrodes HOA-i, 110A-ii, are alternated with the negative electrodes HOB-i, 110B-ii. In some embodiments, the orientation of the positive electrodes HOA-i, 110A-ii and the negative electrodes 110B-i, 110B-ii determines which tooth is the adjacent tooth when the plurality of teeth are arranged in a matrix. For example, if the positive electrodes HOA-i, 1 lOA-ii and the negative electrodes HOB-i, 1 lOB-ii are arranged in a diagonal line from southwest to northeast within (or on) each tooth of the plurality of teeth, the adjacent teeth 205B are the tooth directly southwest of tooth 205A and the tooth directly northeast of tooth 205A.In some embodiments, a current source (such as current source 135 in Figures 1A and 1B) is configured to supply current to each electrode 110A-i, 110A-ii, 110B-i, 110B-ii of the plurality of teeth to generate an alternating electric field EF between one electrode (such as negative electrode 110B-i) in tooth 205A and a second electrode (such as positive electrode 110A-ii) in adjacent tooth 205B. Although the alternating electric field EF is illustrated as being generated between the negative electrode 1 lOB-i of tooth 205A and the positive electrode 1 lOA-ii of adjacent tooth 205B, it should be understood that the alternating electric field could be between the positive electrode 1 lOA-i of tooth 205A and the negative electrode 1 lOB-ii of adjacent tooth 205B depending on the orientation of electrodes HOA-i, 1 lOA-ii, 1 lOB-i, 1 lOB-ii and / or the orientation of tooth 205A and adjacent tooth 205B.

[0055] In some embodiments, the electrodes HOA-i, 1 lOA-ii, 1 lOB-i, 1 lOB-ii are located within each tooth of the plurality of teeth. In some embodiments, the electrodes 1 lOA-i, 1 lOA-ii, 1 lOB-i, 1 lOB-ii are located on the surface of each tooth. In some embodiments, the electrodes HOA-i, 1 lOA-ii, 1 lOB-i, 1 lOB-ii are contacts, such as copper contacts.

[0056] In some embodiments, the tooth 205A and the adjacent tooth 205B are separated by a distance D. In some embodiments, each tooth of the plurality of teeth is separated by the distance D. In some embodiments, the distance D is the maximum distance the teeth can be spaced apart to still generate the alternating electric field EF. In other embodiments, the distance D is any spacing distance that generates the alternating electric field EF. In some embodiments, the alternating electric field EF is 1 to 300 MHz in frequency. In some embodiments, the alternating electric field EF is a radio frequency (RF) field.

[0057] [Fig. 2B] is a close-up view of a positive electrode 110A-i of one tooth (such as tooth 205A) and a negative electrode 110B-ii of an adjacent tooth (such as adjacent tooth 205B), in accordance with the present technology. In some embodiments, the distance D may be substantially equal to the distance between the positive electrode 110A-i of one tooth and the negative electrode 110B-ii of another tooth (adjacent tooth), such as when the electrodes HOA-i, 110B-ii are located outside each tooth.

[0058] In some embodiments, the alternating electric field EF is generated between the positive electrode 110A-i of a tooth and the negative electrode 110B-ii of an adjacent electrode. In some embodiments, the alternating electric field EF is between 1 and 300 MHz in frequency.

[0059] In operation, the current source 235 provides a current to the electrodes 1 lOA-i, 1 lOB-ii. The electrodes 1 lOA-i, 1 lOB-ii can generate an alternating electric field EF between them. The alternating energy of the alternating electric field EF can cause the polar molecules in the water to continually reorient themselves to face opposite poles, similar to how magnets move in an alternating magnetic field. In this way, the hair strands 2000 (illustrated as having positive (plus sign) and negative (minus sign) poles) can orient themselves toward the electrodes 1 lOA-i, 1 lOB-ii. In this way, the movement of the polar molecules in the water causes friction, which allows the water in the hair strands 2000 to quickly evaporate through the hair strands 2000, effectively drying the hair.

[0060] Figures 3A-3D are perspective views of exemplary airless hair dryers 300, in accordance with the present technology. In some embodiments, the airless hair dryer 300 includes a body 302, a handle 303, and a plurality of teeth 305A, 305B, 305C, 305N. In some embodiments, the handle 303 may be an integral part of the body 302, as shown in Figures 3A and 3B. In some embodiments, the handle 303 may be a separate component from the body 302, as shown in Figures 3C and 3D. Those skilled in the art should recognize that any handle configuration may be incorporated into any form factor of the airless hair dryer 300 including a single body / handle component 302, 303, a separate handle 303, a handle 303 removable from the body 302, or the like. The handle 303 may have any shape, including two-dimensional, three-dimensional, cylindrical, rectangular, organic, or the like.

[0061] In some embodiments, the plurality of teeth 305A, 305B, 305C... 305N are arranged in a line along all or a portion of the body 302, as shown in Figures 3A and 3B. In some embodiments, the airless hair dryer 300 includes a plurality of infrared (IR) light emitting diodes (LEDs) 350A, 350B, 350C.

[0062] In operation, the IR LEDs 350A, 350B, 350C are configured to emit or transfer IR energy to the hair. In some embodiments, the IR energy has a wavelength between 0.78 and 1000 pm. In some embodiments, the IR energy is shortwave IR (about 0.78 to 2 pm), midwave IR (about 2 to 4 pm), and / or longwave IR (about 4 to 1000 pm). In some embodiments, the IR LEDs 350A, 350B, 350C are configured to dry the hair while alternating electric fields are generated between the plurality of teeth (as depicted in Figures 2A and 2B). In some embodiments, the IR LEDs 350A, 350B, 350C are configured to dry the hair independently of the alternating electric fields, such as before the generation of the alternating electric fields, after the generation of the alternating electric fields, or both.In some embodiments, the alternating electric fields and IR LEDs 350A, 350B, 350C are alternated as a user moves the airless hair dryer 300 through the hair. In some embodiments, a steam sensor (such as steam sensor 120) detects a dryness level of the hair, and when the dryness level reaches or exceeds a dryness level, the alternating electric fields are turned off and the IR LEDs 350A, 350B, 350C are turned on.

[0063] Figure 3A is an airless hair dryer 300 having a “comb with handle” form factor. In some embodiments, the airless hair dryer 300 includes a power connector 345 configured to facilitate a wired connection (not shown) with an outlet or external power source. In some embodiments, the power connector 345 may be communicatively or physically connected to a power source (such as the power source 140) within the airless hair dryer 300. In some embodiments, the power connector 345 provides power to the source power supply for powering the airless hair dryer 300. In some embodiments, the plurality of IR LEDs 350A, 350B, 350C are located between each of the plurality of teeth 305A, 305B, 305C. In such embodiments, the IR LEDs 350A, 350B, 350C may dry hair as it is brushed or combed through the plurality of teeth 305A, 305B, 305C.

[0064] Figure 3B is an airless hair dryer 300 having a "detangler" form factor. In some embodiments, the IR LEDs 350A, 350B, 350C are located within or on each of the plurality of teeth 305A, 305B, 305C. In some embodiments, the IR LEDs 305A, 305B, 305C are configured to dry the hair when the plurality of teeth 305A, 305B, 305C contact the hair.

[0065] In some embodiments, the plurality of teeth 305A, 305B, 305C are arranged in an array, as shown in Figures 3C and 3D. As explained in Figures 2A and 2B, the alternating electric fields may be generated between any two adjacent teeth of the plurality of teeth 305A, 305B, 305C. In some embodiments, the alternating electric fields may be generated between any number of adjacent teeth along a line, such as a north-south line, an east-west line, a southwest-northeast line, or a northwest-southwest line. In some embodiments, the alternating electric field is generated between teeth located in the same row, column, or diagonal of the array. Figure 3C is an airless hair dryer 300 having a “hairbrush” form factor, while Figure 3D is an airless hair dryer 300 having a “barrel brush” form factor.In some embodiments, the body 302 is cylindrical in shape, as shown in Figure 3D.

[0066] [Fig. 4A] is an example of an airless hair dryer 400 having a first face 402A and a second face 402B, in accordance with the present technology. In some embodiments, the airless hair dryer 400 has a body consisting of a first face 402A and a second face 402B. In some embodiments, the airless hair dryer 400 further includes a clamping mechanism (or clamp) 455. In some embodiments, the airless hair dryer 400 includes a handle 403, but this may be omitted in other embodiments.

[0067] In some embodiments, the first face 402A, the second face 402B, or both include a plurality of teeth 405A, 405B, 405C. In some embodiments, the term "plurality of teeth" includes each tooth located on the airless hair dryer 400.

[0068] In some embodiments, the airless hair dryer 400 includes a clamp 555. In some embodiments, the clamp 455 is a hinge, clip, band, clasp, or other clamping mechanism. In some embodiments, the clamp 455 is configured to bring a front side of the first face 402A toward a front side of the second face 402B, as shown in [Fig. 4B]. In some embodiments, the clamp 455 is electronically powered to automatically clamp the first face 402A and the second face 402B. In some embodiments, the clamp 455 is manually operated, and the first face 402A and the second face 402B may be brought into contact by a machine, or by the user, for example, by a squeezing motion of the user's hands. In some embodiments, the first face 402A and the second face 402B may both move toward a center of the airless hair dryer 400 to contact each other.In other embodiments, the first face 402A or the second face 402B may be fixed, and the other of the first face 402A or the second face 402B may move toward the fixed face.

[0069] [Fig. 4B] shows the first face 402A and the second face 402B of the airless hair dryer 400 of [Fig. 4A] in contact with each other, in accordance with the present technology. In some embodiments, the first face 402A includes a front side FS1 and a rear side FS2. Similarly, the second face 402B may have a front side FS2 and a rear side BS2. In some embodiments, a first plurality of teeth 405A-i, 405B-i, 405C-i are located on the front side FS1 of the first face 402A, and a second plurality of teeth 405A-ii, 405B-ii, ​​405C-Ü are located on the front side FS2 of the second face 402B. In some embodiments, the first plurality of teeth 405A-i, 405B-i, 405C-I and the second plurality of teeth 405A-ii, 405B-ii, ​​405C-Ü are arranged to alternate when the first face 402A and the second face 402B are brought together.In some embodiments, the adjacent tooth as depicted in Figures 2A and 2B may be a tooth of the other face that becomes an adjacent tooth when the two faces 402A, 402B are brought toward each other. Although the front side FS1 of the first face 402A and the front side FS2 of the second face 402B are both illustrated as having a plurality of teeth (the first plurality of teeth 405A-i, 405B-i, 405C-i and the second plurality of teeth 405A-Ü, 405B-ii, ​​405-ii), it should be understood that in some embodiments, only one face 402A, 402B has a plurality of teeth.

[0070] In operation, when the first face 402A and the second face 402B are brought together, the first plurality of teeth 405A-i, 405B-i, 405C-i and the second plurality of teeth 405A-Ü, 405B-Ü, 405-ii interlock. A current source (such as current source 135, 235) may deliver a current to the first plurality of teeth 405A-i, 405B-i, 405C-i and the second plurality of teeth 405A-Ü, 405B-Ü, 405-ii. In some embodiments, alternating electric fields are generated between adjacent teeth. In some embodiments, the first plurality of teeth 405A-i, 405B-i, 405C-i and the second plurality of teeth 405A-Ü, 405B-Ü, 405-ii may independently generate alternating electric fields, i.e., first alternating electric fields may be generated between each tooth of the first plurality of teeth 405A-i, 405B-i, 405C-i and second alternating electric fields may be generated between each tooth of the second plurality of teeth 405A-Ü, 405B-Ü, 405-ii. In some embodiments, the first plurality of teeth 405A-i, 405B-i, 405C-i and the second plurality of teeth 405A-ii, 405B-Ü, 405-ii together generate alternating electric fields, i.e., alternating electric fields are generated between a tooth of the first plurality of teeth 405A-i, 405B-i, 405C-i and a tooth of the second plurality of teeth 405A-Ü, 405B-Ü, 405-ii.

[0071] [Fig. 4C] is a face 402 of the airless hair dryer 400 of [Fig. 4A], in accordance with the present technology. The face 402 may be a first face (such as the first face 402A) or a second face (such as the second face 402B). In some embodiments, the first face and the second face are both substantially the same. In some embodiments, the first face and the second face are different. For example, in some embodiments, the first face may have a plurality of teeth, while the second face may not. In some embodiments, the face 402 includes a plurality of teeth 405A, 405B, 405C. In some embodiments, the plurality of teeth 405A, 405B, 405C are arranged in a matrix, as shown in [Fig. 4C].

[0072] [Fig. 5A] is another example of an airless hair dryer 500 having a first face 502A and a second face 502B, in accordance with the present technology. In some embodiments, the airless hair dryer 500 has a body consisting of a first face 502A and a second face 502B and a clamping mechanism (or clamp) 555. In some embodiments, the airless hair dryer 500 includes a handle 503, but this may be omitted in other embodiments.

[0073] In some embodiments, the first face 502A, the second face 502B, or both include a plurality of teeth 505A, 505B, 505C. In some embodiments, the term "plurality of teeth" includes each tooth located on an airless hair dryer 500.

[0074] In some embodiments, the airless hair dryer 500 includes a clamp 555. In some embodiments, the clamp 555 is a hinge, clip, band, clasp, or other clamping mechanism. In some embodiments, the clamp 555 is configured to bring a front side of the first face 502A to a front side of the second face 502B, as described herein.

[0075] [Fig. 5B] shows the first face 502A and the second face 502B of the airless hair dryer 500 of [Fig. 5A] in contact with each other, in accordance with the present technology. In some embodiments, the first face 502A includes a front side FS1 and a rear side FS2. Similarly, the second face 502B may have a front side FS2 and a rear side BS2. In some embodiments, a first plurality of teeth 505A-i, 505B-i, 505C-i are located on the front side FS1 of the first face 502A, and a second plurality of teeth 505A-Ü, 505B-Ü, 505C-Ü are located on the front side FS2 of the second face 502B. In some embodiments, the first plurality of teeth 505A-i, 505B-i, 505C-I and the second plurality of teeth 505A-Ü, 505B-Ü, 505C-Ü are arranged to alternate when the first face 502A and the second face 502B are brought together.In some embodiments, the adjacent tooth as depicted in Figures 2A and 2B may be a tooth of the other face that becomes an adjacent tooth when the two faces 502A, 502B are brought toward each other. In some embodiments, the airless hair dryer 500 includes a third plurality of teeth 505A-iii, 505B-iii, 505C-iii located on one or more sides of the first face 502A (as more clearly shown in [Fig. 5C]) and a fourth plurality of teeth 505A-iv, 505B-iv, 505C-iv located on one or more sides of the second face 502A (as more clearly shown in [Fig. 5C]).In some embodiments, the third plurality of teeth 505A-iii, 505B-iii, 505C-iii, and the fourth plurality of teeth 505A-iv, 505B-iv, 505C-iv only generate an alternating electric field between them, i.e., only between teeth of the third plurality of teeth 505A-iii, 505B-iii, 505C-iii or only between teeth of the fourth plurality of teeth 505A-iv, 505B-iv, 505C-iv.

[0076] Although the front side FS1 of the first face 502A, the front side FS2 of the second face 502B, one or more sides of the first face 502A, and one or more sides of the second face 502B are illustrated as having a plurality of teeth (the first plurality of teeth 505A-i, 505B-i, 505C-i, the second plurality of teeth 505A-ii, 505B-i, 505-ii, the third plurality of teeth 505A-iii, 505B-iii, 505C-iii, and the fourth plurality of teeth 505A-iv, 505B-iv, 505C-iv), it should be understood that in some embodiments, only one face 502A, 502B has one or more pluralities of teeth. Further, in some embodiments, one face of the first face 502A or the second face 502B may have a plurality of teeth and one face of the first face 502A or the second face 502B may have a plurality of teeth. For example, the first face 502A may have the first plurality of teeth 505A-i, 505B-Î, 505C-Î and the second face 502B may have the fourth plurality of teeth 505A-iv, 505B-iv, 505C-iv.

[0077] In operation, the first face 502A and the second face 502B may be clamped together (such as with the clamp 555). In some embodiments, a user may move the first face 502A and the second face 502B, while clamped together, over the hair. The alternating electric fields generated between the first plurality of teeth 505A-i, 505B-i, 505C-i and the second plurality of teeth 505A-Ü, 505B-Ü, 505-ii (either independently or together) may dry the hair. In some embodiments, while the first face 502A and the second face 502B are clamped together, the user may roll the airless hair dryer 500, for example in a curling motion, so that the hair is also disposed between the third plurality of teeth 505A-iii, 505B-iii, 505C-iii, and / or the fourth plurality of teeth 505A-iv, 505B-iv, 505C-iv. As shown in [Fig.5C], in some embodiments, this curling motion can be performed in either direction because there are a plurality of teeth (first second plurality of teeth 505A-iia, 505B-iia, 505C-iia and another second plurality of teeth 505A-iib, 505B-iib, 505C-iib, respectively) located on both sides (S1, S2) of one or more of the faces 502A, 502B. In some embodiments, the user can loosen the first face 502A and the second face 502B from the hair and pass them through the hair with the third plurality of teeth 505A-iii, 505B-iii, 505C-iii, and / or the fourth plurality of teeth 505A-iv, 505B-iv, 505C-iv only to dry the hair. .

[0078] [Fig. 5C] is a face 502 of the airless hair dryer 500 of [Fig. 5A], in accordance with the present technology. The face 502 may be a first face (such as the first face 502A) or a second face (such as the second face 502B). In some embodiments, the first face and the second face are both substantially the same. In some embodiments, the first face and the second face may be different. For example, in some embodiments, the first face may have a plurality of teeth, while the second face may not. In some embodiments, the face 502 includes a first plurality of teeth 505A-i, 505B-i, 505C-i. In some embodiments, the first plurality of teeth 505A-i, 505B-i, 505C-i are arranged in a matrix, as shown in [Fig. 4C]. In some embodiments, the face 502 includes a first side S1 and a second side S2.In some embodiments, the face 502 has a first second plurality of teeth 505A-iia, 505B-iia, 505C-iia located on a first side SL. In some embodiments, the first second plurality of teeth 505A-iia, 505B-iia, 505C-iia are arranged in a line. In some embodiments, the face 502 has another second plurality of teeth 505A-iib, . 505B-iib, 505C-iib located on the second side S2. In some embodiments, the other second plurality of teeth 505A-iib, 505B-iib, 505C-iib are arranged in a line. Although both the first second plurality of teeth 505A-iia, 505B-iia, 505C-iia and the other second plurality of teeth 505A-iib, 505B-iib, 505C-iib are illustrated, it should be understood that in some embodiments, only the first second plurality of teeth 505A-iia, 505B-iia, 505C-iia or the other second plurality of teeth 505A-iib, 505B-iib, 505C-iib may be included.

[0079] [Fig. 6A] is another example of an airless hair dryer 600 having a first face 602A and a second face 602B, in accordance with the present technology. In some embodiments, the airless hair dryer 600 has a body consisting of a first face 602A and a second face 602B, and a clamping mechanism (or clamp) 655. In some embodiments, the airless hair dryer 600 includes a handle 603, but this may be omitted in other embodiments. In some embodiments, the first face 602A includes a first heating plate 660A, and the second face 602B includes a second heating plate 660B. In some embodiments, the first heating plate 660A and the second heating plate 660B are iron plates, IR LEDs, or other such heating elements.

[0080] [Fig. 6B] shows the first face 602A and the second face 602B of the airless hair dryer 600 of [Fig. 6A] in contact with each other, in accordance with the present technology. In some embodiments, the first face 602A includes a front side FS1 and a back side FS2. Similarly, the second face 602B may have a front side FS2 and a back side BS2. In some embodiments, the first heating plate 660A is located on the front side FS1 of the first face 602A and the second heating plate 660B is located on the front side FS2 of the second face 602B.

[0081] In some embodiments, the airless hair dryer 600 includes a first plurality of teeth 605A-i, 605B-i, 605C-i located on one or more sides of the first face 602A (as more clearly shown in [Fig. 6C]) and a second plurality of teeth 605A-Ü, 605B-Ü, 605C-Ü located on one or more sides of the second face 502A (as more clearly shown in [Fig. 5C]). In some embodiments, the first plurality of teeth 605A-i, 605B-i, 605C-i and the second plurality of teeth 605A-Ü, 605B-Ü, 605C-Ü only generate alternating electric fields between each other, i.e., only between teeth of the first plurality of teeth 605A-i, 605B-i, 605C-i or only between teeth of the second plurality of teeth 605A-Ü, 605B-Ü, 605C-Ü.

[0082] In operation, the first face 602A and the second face 602B may be clamped together (such as with the collet 655). In some embodiments embodiment, a user may move the first face 602A and the second face 602B, while clamped together, over the hair. The first heating plate 660A, the second heating plate 660B, or a combination thereof, may dry the hair. In some embodiments, while the first face 602A and the second face 602B are clamped together, the user may roll or rotate the airless hair dryer 600, e.g., in a curling motion, so that the hair is equally disposed between the first plurality of teeth 605A-i, 605B-i, 605C-i and / or the second plurality of teeth 605A-Ü, 605B-Ü, 605C-ii. As shown in [Fig.6C], in some embodiments, this curling motion can be performed in either direction because there are a plurality of teeth (a first plurality of first side teeth 605A-ia, 605B-ia, 605C-ia and a first plurality of second side teeth 605A-ib, 605B-ib, 605C-ib) located on both sides (S1, S2) of one or more of the faces 602A, 602B. In some embodiments, the user can loosen the first face 602A and the second face 602B from the hair and pass them through the hair with the first plurality of teeth 605A-i, 605B-i, 605C-i and / or the second plurality of teeth 605A-Ü, 605B-Ü, 605C-Ü to dry the hair.

[0083] [Fig. 6C] is a face 602 of the airless hair dryer 600 of [Fig. 6A], in accordance with the present technology. The face 602 may be a first face (such as the first face 602A) or a second face (such as the second face 602B). In some embodiments, the first face and the second face are both substantially the same. In some embodiments, the first face and the second face may be different. For example, in some embodiments, the first face may have a plurality of teeth, while the second face may not. As another example, the first face may have a heating plate, while the second face may not. In some embodiments, a heating plate 660 is located on a front side FS of the face 602. In some embodiments, the face 602 includes a first side S1 and a second side S2.In some embodiments, the face 602 has a first plurality of first side teeth 605A-ia, 605B-ia, 605C-ia located on the first side SL. In some embodiments, the first plurality of first side teeth 605A-ia, 605B-ia, 605C-ia are arranged in a line. In some embodiments, the face 602 has a first plurality of second side teeth 605A-ib, 605B-ib, 605C-ib located on the second side S2. In some embodiments, the first plurality of second side teeth 605A-ib, 605B-ib, 605C-ib are arranged in a line. Although both the first plurality of first side teeth 605A-ia, 605B-ia, 605C-ia and the first plurality of second side teeth 605A-ib, 605B-ib, 605C-ib are illustrated, it should be understood that in some embodiments, . only the first plurality of first side teeth 605A-ia, 605B-ia, 605C-ia or the first plurality of second side teeth 605A-ib, 605B-ib, 605C-ib may be included.

[0084] [Fig. 7] is an exemplary method 700 of using an airless hair dryer, in accordance with the present technology. The method 700 may be performed by any of the airless hair dryers (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600) described herein. In some embodiments, the airless hair dryer includes a body (such as body 102, 302, 402, 502, 602) and at least one plurality of teeth (such as plurality of teeth 105A, 105B, 105C...105N, 205A, 205B, 305A, 305B, 305C, 405A, 405B, 405C, 505A, 505B, 505C, 605A, 605B, 605C). In some embodiments, the airless hair dryer also includes a processor (such as processor 130), a power source (such as power source 135, 235), and / or a power source (such as power source 140).In some embodiments, the airless hair dryer also includes one or more temperature sensors (such as temperature sensor 115), one or more proximity sensors (such as proximity sensor 125), one or more steam sensors (such as steam sensor 120 and / or the plurality of steam sensors 120A, 120B, 120C...120N), and / or one or more infrared light emitting diodes (IR LEDs) (such as the plurality of IR LEDs 350A, 350B, 350C).

[0085] At block 705, the plurality of teeth are moved into the hair (or strands of hair, such as strands of hair 2000). In some embodiments, the plurality of teeth are located on the body of the airless hair dryer. The body may have a first face (such as first face 402A, 502A, 602A) and / or a second face (such as second face 402B, 502B, 602B). In some embodiments, the plurality of teeth may be located on the first face and / or the second face, and on one or more sides (such as a front side of the first face FS1, a front side of the second face FS2, a first side S1 and / or a second side S2) of the first face and / or the second face.

[0086] Optionally, at block 710, the first face and the second face are clamped together (as shown in Figures 4B, 5B, and 6B). In some embodiments, the plurality of teeth on the first face interlock or alternate with the plurality of teeth on the second face.

[0087] At block 715, electric fields (also referred to herein as alternating electric fields) are generated between positive electrodes (such as positive electrodes 110A, 110A-i, 110A-ii) of one tooth of the plurality of teeth and negative electrodes (such as negative electrodes 110B, 110B-i, 110B-ii) of an adjacent tooth of the plurality of teeth. As described herein, an adjacent tooth may refer to one or more teeth of the plurality of teeth directly adjacent to another tooth of the plurality of teeth. When the plurality of teeth are arranged in a line (as shown in Figures 1A and 1B, 3A and 3B, 5A to 5C and 6A to 6C), the adjacent tooth is one or more teeth located directly on either side of one of the plurality of teeth. When the plurality of teeth are arranged in an array (as shown in Figures 3C and 3D, 4A to 4C and 5A to 5C), the adjacent tooth may be one or more teeth in any cardinal direction, along any line, such as within the same column or row, or diagonally. When the airless hair dryer includes more than one plurality of teeth (as shown in Figures 4A-4C, 5A-5C, and 6A-6C), the adjacent tooth may be one of the same plurality of teeth as the tooth, or one of a different plurality of teeth than the tooth.

[0088] At block 720, the hair is dried. In some embodiments, the current source provides current to the electrodes. The electrodes may generate alternating electric fields between them. The alternating energy of the alternating electric fields causes the polar molecules in the water to continually reorient themselves to face opposite poles, similar to how magnets move in an alternating magnetic field. In this way, hair strands having positive and negative poles can be oriented toward the electrodes. In this way, the movement of the polar molecules in the water causes friction, which allows the water in the hair strands to quickly evaporate through the hair strands, effectively drying the hair.

[0089] [Fig. 8] is an example of a method 800 of using an airless hair dryer with a temperature sensor, in accordance with the present technology. The method 800 may be performed by any of the airless hair dryers (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600) described herein. In some embodiments, the airless hair dryer includes a body (such as body 102, 302, 402, 502, 602) and at least one plurality of teeth (such as plurality of teeth 105A, 105B, 105C...105N, 205A, 205B, 305A, 305B, 305C, 405A, 405B, 405C, 505A, 505B, 505C, 605A, 605B, 605C). In some embodiments, the airless hair dryer also includes a processor (such as processor 130), a power source (such as power source 135, 235), and / or a power source (such as power source 140).In some embodiments, the airless hair dryer also includes one or more temperature sensors (such as temperature sensor 115), one or more proximity sensors (such as proximity sensor 125), one or more steam sensors (such as steam sensor 120 and / or the plurality of steam sensors 120A, 120B, 120C...120N), and / or one or more infrared light emitting diodes (IR LEDs) (such as the plurality of IR LEDs 350A, 350B, 350C).

[0090] At block 805, the plurality of teeth are moved into the hair (or hair strands, such as hair strands 2000). In some embodiments, the plurality of teeth is located on the body of the airless hair dryer. The body may have a first face (such as first face 402A, 502A, 602A) and / or a second face (such as second face 402B, 502B, 602B). In some embodiments, the plurality of teeth may be located on the first face and / or the second face, and on one or more sides (such as a front side of the first face FS1, a front side of the second face FS2, a first side S1 and / or a second side S2) of the first face and / or the second face.

[0091] At block 810, electric fields (also referred to herein as alternating electric fields) are generated between positive electrodes (such as positive electrodes 110A, 110A-i, 110A-ii) of one of the plurality of teeth and negative electrodes (such as negative electrodes 110B, 110B-i, 110B-ii) of an adjacent one of the plurality of teeth. As described herein, an adjacent tooth may refer to one or more of the plurality of teeth directly adjacent to another one of the plurality of teeth. When the plurality of teeth are arranged in a line (as shown in Figures 1A and 1B, 3A and 3B, 5A-5C, and 6A-6C), the adjacent tooth is one or more teeth located directly on either side of one of the plurality of teeth.When the plurality of teeth are arranged in a matrix (as shown in Figures 3C and 3D, 4A-4C, and 5A-5C), the adjacent tooth may be one or more teeth in any cardinal direction, along any line, such as within the same column or row, or diagonally. When the airless hair dryer includes more than one plurality of teeth (as shown in Figures 4A-4C, 5A-5C, and 6A-6C), the adjacent tooth may be one of the same plurality of teeth as the tooth, or one of a different plurality of teeth than the tooth.

[0092] At block 815, a temperature of a user's scalp is detected. In some embodiments, the temperature may be measured by the temperature sensor. In some embodiments, the temperature sensor may be located in one of the plurality of teeth, or in the body of the airless hair dryer.

[0093] At decision block 820, a determination is made as to whether the measured temperature reaches or exceeds a temperature threshold. In some embodiments, the temperature threshold is a temperature that could burn or otherwise injure a user of the airless hair dryer. In some embodiments, the temperature threshold is between about 100 and 125°F. If the temperature reaches or exceeds the temperature threshold, method 800 proceeds to block 825.

[0094] At block 825, the electric fields are turned off or otherwise deactivated. In some embodiments, the current source stops emitting current. In some embodiments, the power source stops transmitting power.

[0095] Returning to decision block 820, if the temperature does not reach or exceed the temperature threshold, method 800 proceeds to block 810.

[0096] [Fig. 9] is another example of a method 900 of using an airless hair dryer, in accordance with the present technology. The method 900 may be performed by any of the airless hair dryers (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600) described herein. In some embodiments, the airless hair dryer includes a body (such as body 102, 302, 402, 502, 602) and at least one plurality of teeth (such as plurality of teeth 105A, 105B, 105C...105N, 205A, 205B, 305A, 305B, 305C, 405A, 405B, 405C, 505A, 505B, 505C, 605A, 605B, 605C). In some embodiments, the airless hair dryer also includes a processor (such as processor 130), a power source (such as power source 135, 235), and / or a power source (such as power source 140).In some embodiments, the airless hair dryer also includes one or more temperature sensors (such as temperature sensor 115), one or more proximity sensors (such as proximity sensor 125), one or more steam sensors (such as steam sensor 120 and / or the plurality of steam sensors 120A, 120B, 120C...120N), and / or one or more infrared light emitting diodes (IR LEDs) (such as the plurality of IR LEDs 350A, 350B, 350C).

[0097] At block 905, the plurality of teeth are moved into the hair (or strands of hair, such as strands of hair 2000). In some embodiments, the plurality of teeth are located on the body of the airless hair dryer. The body may have a first face (such as first face 402A, 502A, 602A) and / or a second face (such as second face 402B, 502B, 602B). In some embodiments, the plurality of teeth may be located on the first face and / or the second face, and on one or more sides (such as a front side of the first face FS1, a front side of the second face FS2, a first side S1 and / or a second side S2) of the first face and / or the second face.

[0098] At block 910, electric fields (also referred to herein as alternating electric fields) are generated between positive electrodes (such as positive electrodes 110A, 110A-i, 110A-ii) of one of the plurality of teeth and negative electrodes (such as negative electrodes 110B, 110B-i, 110B-ii) of an adjacent one of the plurality of teeth. As described herein, an adjacent tooth may refer to one or more of the plurality of teeth directly adjacent to another one of the plurality of teeth. When the plurality of teeth are arranged in a line (as shown in Figures 1A and 1B, 3A and 3B, 5A-5C, and 6A-6C), the adjacent tooth is one or more teeth located directly on either side of one of the plurality of teeth. When the plurality of teeth are arranged in a matrix (as shown in Figures 3C and 3D, 4A-4C and 5A-5C), the adjacent tooth may be one or more teeth in any cardinal direction, along any line, such as within the same column or row, or diagonally. When the airless hair dryer includes more than one plurality of teeth (as shown in Figures 4A-4C, 5A-5C, and 6A-6C), the adjacent tooth may be one of the same plurality of teeth as the tooth, or one of a different plurality of teeth than the tooth.

[0099] At block 915, a dryness (or dryness level) of the hair is detected. In some embodiments, the dryness level may be measured by the steam sensor. In some embodiments, the steam sensor may be located in the body of the airless hair dryer, or one or more of the plurality of teeth. In some embodiments, the steam sensor may be located at a base of one or more of the plurality of teeth. In some embodiments, there may be a steam sensor in each of the plurality of teeth.

[0100] In decision block 920, it is determined whether the measured dryness level reaches or exceeds a dryness threshold. If the dryness level reaches or exceeds the dryness threshold, the method 900 proceeds to block 925.

[0101] At block 925, the electric fields are turned off or otherwise deactivated. In some embodiments, the current source stops emitting current. In some embodiments, the power source stops transmitting power.

[0102] Returning to decision block 920, if the dryness level does not reach or exceed the dryness threshold, method 900 proceeds to block 910.

[0103] [Fig. 10] is an exemplary method 1000 of using an airless hair dryer with an infrared light emitting diode, in accordance with the present technology. The method 1000 may be performed by any of the airless hair dryers (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600) described herein. In some embodiments, the airless hair dryer includes a body (such as body 102, 302, 402, 502, 602) and at least one plurality of teeth (such as plurality of teeth 105A, 105B, 105C...105N, 205A, 205B, 305A, 305B, 305C, 405A, 405B, 405C, 505A, 505B, 505C, 605A, 605B, 605C). In some embodiments, the airless hair dryer also includes a processor (such as processor 130), a power source (such as power source 135, 235), and / or a power source (such as power source 140).In some embodiments, the airless hair dryer also includes one or more temperature sensors (such as temperature sensor 115), one or more proximity sensors (such as proximity sensor 125), one or more steam sensors (such as steam sensor 120 and / or the plurality of steam sensors 120A, 120B, 120C...120N), and / or one or more . multiple infrared light emitting diodes (IR LEDs) (such as the plurality of IR LEDs 350A, 350B, 350C).

[0104] At block 1005, the plurality of teeth are moved into the hair (or strands of hair, such as strands of hair 2000). In some embodiments, the plurality of teeth are located on the body of the airless hair dryer. The body may have a first face (such as first face 402A, 502A, 602A) and / or a second face (such as second face 402B, 502B, 602B). In some embodiments, the plurality of teeth may be located on the first face and / or the second face, and on one or more sides (such as a front side of the first face FS1, a front side of the second face FS2, a first side S1 and / or a second side S2) of the first face and / or the second face.

[0105] Optionally, at block 1010, the first face and the second face are clamped together (as shown in Figures 4B, 5B, and 6B). In some embodiments, the plurality of teeth on the first face interlock or alternate with the plurality of teeth on the second face.

[0106] At block 1015, electric fields (also referred to herein as alternating electric fields) are generated between positive electrodes (such as positive electrodes 110A, 110A-i, 110A-ii) of one of the plurality of teeth and negative electrodes (such as negative electrodes 110B, 110B-i, 110B-ii) of an adjacent one of the plurality of teeth. As described herein, an adjacent tooth may refer to one or more of the plurality of teeth directly adjacent to another one of the plurality of teeth. When the plurality of teeth are arranged in a line (as shown in Figures 1A and 1B, 3A and 3B, 5A-5C, and 6A-6C), the adjacent tooth is one or more teeth located directly on either side of one of the plurality of teeth.When the plurality of teeth are arranged in a matrix (as shown in Figures 3C and 3D, 4A-4C, and 5A-5C), the adjacent tooth may be one or more teeth in any cardinal direction, along any line, such as within the same column or row, or diagonally. When the airless hair dryer includes more than one plurality of teeth (as shown in Figures 4A-4C, 5A-5C, and 6A-6C), the adjacent tooth may be one of the same plurality of teeth as the tooth, or one of a different plurality of teeth than the tooth.

[0107] At block 1020, the hair is dried with the alternating electric fields. In some embodiments, the current source provides current to the electrodes. The electrodes may generate alternating electric fields between them. The alternating energy of the alternating electric fields causes the polar molecules in the water to continually reorient themselves to face opposite poles, similar to how magnets move in an alternating magnetic field. In this way, strands of hair having positive and negative poles may be oriented towards the electrodes. In this way, the movement of polar molecules in the water causes friction, which allows the water in the hair strands to evaporate quickly through the hair strands, effectively drying the hair.

[0108] At block 1025, the hair is dried with one or more IR LEDs. In some embodiments, the IR LEDs emit or transfer IR energy to the hair. In some embodiments, the IR energy has a wavelength between 0.78 and 1000 pm. In some embodiments, the IR energy is shortwave IR (about 0.78 to 2 pm), midwave IR (about 2 to 4 pm), and / or longwave IR (about 4 to 1000 pm). In some embodiments, block 1020 and block 1025 occur simultaneously, i.e., the IR LEDs dry the hair while the alternating electric fields are generated between the plurality of teeth. In some embodiments, block 1020 and block 1025 occur consecutively.In some embodiments, the IR LEDs are configured to dry the hair independently of the alternating electric fields, such as before generating the alternating electric fields, after generating the alternating electric fields, or both. In some embodiments, the blocks 1020 and 1025 are alternated, i.e., the alternating electric fields and the IR LEDs 350A, 350B, 350C are alternated as a user moves the airless hair dryer 300 through the hair.

[0109] [Fig. 11] is another example of a method 1100 of using an airless hair dryer with an infrared light emitting diode, in accordance with the present technology. The method 1100 may be performed by any of the airless hair dryers (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600) described herein. In some embodiments, the airless hair dryer includes a body (such as body 102, 302, 402, 502, 602) and at least one plurality of teeth (such as plurality of teeth 105A, 105B, 105C...105N, 205A, 205B, 305A, 305B, 305C, 405A, 405B, 405C, 505A, 505B, 505C, 605A, 605B, 605C). In some embodiments, the airless hair dryer also includes a processor (such as processor 130), a power source (such as power source 135, 235), and / or a power source (such as power source 140).In some embodiments, the airless hair dryer also includes one or more temperature sensors (such as temperature sensor 115), one or more proximity sensors (such as proximity sensor 125), one or more steam sensors (such as steam sensor 120 and / or the plurality of steam sensors 120A, 120B, 120C...120N), and / or one or more infrared light emitting diodes (IR LEDs) (such as the plurality of IR LEDs 350A, 350B, 350C).

[0110] At block 1105, the plurality of teeth are moved into the hair (or strands of hair, such as strands of hair 2000). In some embodiments, the plurality of teeth are located on the body of the airless hair dryer. The body may have a first face (such as first face 402A, 502A, 602A) and / or a second face (such as second face 402B, 502B, 602B). In some embodiments, the plurality of teeth may be located on the first face and / or the second face, and on one or more sides (such as a front side of the first face FS1, a front side of the second face FS2, a first side S1 and / or a second side S2) of the first face and / or the second face.

[0111] At block 1110, electric fields (also referred to herein as alternating electric fields) are generated between positive electrodes (such as positive electrodes 110A, 110A-i, 110A-ii) of one of the plurality of teeth and negative electrodes (such as negative electrodes 110B, 110B-i, 110B-ii) of an adjacent one of the plurality of teeth. As described herein, an adjacent tooth may refer to one or more of the plurality of teeth directly adjacent to another one of the plurality of teeth. When the plurality of teeth are arranged in a line (as shown in Figures 1A and 1B, 3A and 3B, 5A-5C, and 6A-6C), the adjacent tooth is one or more teeth located directly on either side of one of the plurality of teeth.When the plurality of teeth are arranged in a matrix (as shown in Figures 3C and 3D, 4A-4C, and 5A-5C), the adjacent tooth may be one or more teeth in any cardinal direction, along any line, such as within the same column or row, or diagonally. When the airless hair dryer includes more than one plurality of teeth (as shown in Figures 4A-4C, 5A-5C, and 6A-6C), the adjacent tooth may be one of the same plurality of teeth as the tooth, or one of a different plurality of teeth than the tooth.

[0112] At block 1115, a dryness (or dryness level) of the hair is detected. In some embodiments, the dryness level may be measured by the steam sensor. In some embodiments, the steam sensor may be located in the body of the airless hair dryer, or one or more of the plurality of teeth. In some embodiments, the steam sensor may be located at a base of one or more of the plurality of teeth. In some embodiments, there may be a steam sensor in each of the plurality of teeth.

[0113] At decision block 1120, it is determined whether the measured dryness level reaches or exceeds a dryness threshold. If the dryness level reaches or exceeds the dryness threshold, method 1100 proceeds to block 1125.

[0114] At block 1125, the electric fields are turned off or otherwise deactivated. In some embodiments, the current source stops emitting a current. In In some embodiments, the power source stops transmitting power.

[0115] At block 1130, the hair is dried with one or more IR LEDs. In some embodiments, the IR LEDs emit or transfer IR energy to the hair. In some embodiments, the IR energy has a wavelength between 0.78 and 1000 pm. In some embodiments, the IR energy is shortwave IR (about 0.78 to 2 pm), midwave IR (about 2 to 4 pm), and / or longwave IR (about 4 to 1000 pm). In some embodiments, block 1020 and block 1025 occur simultaneously, i.e., the IR LEDs dry the hair while the alternating electric fields are generated between the plurality of teeth. In some embodiments, block 1020 and block 1025 occur consecutively.In some embodiments, the IR LEDs are configured to dry the hair independently of the alternating electric fields, such as before generating the alternating electric fields, after generating the alternating electric fields, or both. In some embodiments, the blocks 1020 and 1025 are alternated, i.e., the alternating electric fields and the IR LEDs 350A, 350B, 350C are alternated as a user moves the airless hair dryer 300 through the hair.

[0116] At decision block 1135, it is determined whether the measured dryness level meets or exceeds a second dryness threshold. In some embodiments, the second dryness threshold is a higher (drier) dryness level than the first dryness threshold. If the dryness level meets or exceeds the second dryness threshold, method 1100 proceeds to block 1125.

[0117] At block 1140, the one or more IR LEDs are turned off or otherwise deactivated. In some embodiments, the power source stops transmitting power. In some embodiments, the processor commands the one or more IR LEDs to turn off.

[0118] Returning to decision block 1135, if the dryness level does not reach or exceed the second dryness threshold, method 1100 returns to block 1130.

[0119] It should be understood that all of the methods 700, 800, 900, 1000, and 1100 are to be construed as merely representative. In some embodiments, the process blocks of all of the methods 700, 800, 900, 1000, and 1100 may be performed concurrently, sequentially, in a different order, or even omitted, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0120] Although illustrative embodiments have been illustrated and described, it should be appreciated that various changes may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0121] The present application may refer to quantities and numbers. Unless specifically indicated, these quantities and numbers should not be considered restrictive, but representative of the possible quantities or numbers associated with the present application. Also in this regard, the present application may use the term "plurality" to refer to a quantity or number. In this regard, the term "plurality" is intended to be any number greater than one, e.g., two, three, four, five, etc. The terms "about," "approximately," "near," etc. mean plus or minus 5% of the stated value. For the purposes of the present disclosure, the expression "at least one of A, B, and C," for example, means (A), (B), (C), (A and B), (A and C), (B and C), or (A, B, and C), including all other possible permutations when more than three elements are listed.

[0122] Embodiments disclosed herein may employ circuitry to implement technologies and methodologies described herein, operatively connect two or more components, generate information, determine operating conditions, control an apparatus, device, or method, and / or the like. Circuitry of any type may be used. In one embodiment, the circuitry includes, among other things, one or more computing devices such as a processor (e.g., a microprocessor), a central processing unit (CPU), a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or the like, or any combination thereof, and may include separate digital or analog circuit elements or electronics, or combinations thereof.

[0123] One embodiment includes one or more data stores that, for example, store instructions or data. Non-limiting examples of one or more data stores include volatile memory (e.g., random access memory (RAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), and the like), non-volatile memory (e.g., read only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable read only memory (EEPROM), compact disk read only memory (CD-ROM), and the like), persistent memory, or the like. Other non-limiting examples of one or more data stores include erasable programmable read only memory (EPROM), flash memory, or the like. The one or more data stores may be connected, for example, to one or more computing devices by one or more instruction, data, or power buses.

[0124] In one embodiment, the circuitry includes a computer-readable media player or memory slot configured to accept a signal-carrying medium (e.g., computer-readable memory medium, computer-readable recording medium, or the like). In one embodiment, a program for causing a system to perform any of the methods disclosed may be stored, for example, on a computer-readable recording medium (CRMM), a signal-carrying medium, or the like. Non-limiting examples of signal-carrying media include a recordable-type medium such as any form of flash memory, magnetic tape, floppy disk, a hard disk drive, a compact disc (CD), a digital video disc (DVD), Blu-ray disc, a digital tape, computer memory, or the like, as well as a transmission-type medium such as a digital and / or analog communication medium (e.g., a fiber optic cable, a waveguide, a wired communication link, a wireless communication link (e.g., transmitter, receiver, transceiver, transmit logic, receive logic, etc.).Other non-limiting examples of signal-carrying media include, but are not limited to, DVD-ROM, DVD-RAM, DVD+RW, DVD-RW, DVD-R, DVD+R, CD-ROM, Super Audio CD, CD-R, CD+R, CD+RW, CD-RW, video compact discs, super video discs, flash memory, magnetic tape, magneto-optical disc, MINIDISC, non-volatile memory card, EEPROM, optical disc, optical storage, RAM, ROM, system memory, web server, or the like.

[0125] The detailed description presented above in connection with the accompanying drawings, where like numerals refer to like elements, is intended to be a description of various embodiments of the present disclosure and is not intended to represent the only embodiments. Each embodiment described in the present disclosure is offered solely by way of example or illustration and should not be construed as being preferred or advantageous over other embodiments. The illustrative examples provided herein are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure to the precise forms disclosed. Also, any steps described herein may be interchangeable with other steps, or combinations of steps, to achieve the same or a substantially similar result.In general, the embodiments disclosed herein are not limiting, and the inventors contemplate that other embodiments within the scope of the present disclosure may include structures and features from more than one specific embodiment illustrated in the Figures and described in the specification.

[0126] In the foregoing description, specific details are presented to provide a thorough understanding of the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the embodiments disclosed herein may be practiced without incorporating all of the specific details. In some instances, well-known process steps have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure various aspects of the present disclosure. Furthermore, it should be appreciated that the embodiments of the present disclosure may employ any combination of features described herein.

[0127] The present application may include references to directions, such as "vertical", "horizontal", "front", "back", "left", "right", "above" and "below", etc. These references, and other similar references in the present application, are intended to assist in describing and understanding the particular embodiment (such as when the embodiment is positioned for use) and are not intended to limit the present disclosure to these directions or locations.

[0128] The present application may also refer to quantities and numbers. Unless specifically indicated, these quantities and numbers should not be considered as restrictive, but as examples of the possible quantities or numbers associated with the present application. In this regard also, the present application may use the term "plurality" to refer to a quantity or number. In this regard, the term "plurality" is intended to be any number greater than one, e.g., two, three, four, five, etc. The term "about," "approximately," etc. means within plus or minus 5% of the stated value. The term "based on" means "based at least partially on."

[0129] The principles, representative embodiments, and modes of operation of the present disclosure have been described in the foregoing description. However, aspects of the present disclosure, which are intended to be protected, should not be construed as being limited to the particular embodiments disclosed. Furthermore, the embodiments described herein should be considered illustrative rather than restrictive. It should be appreciated that variations and changes may be made by others, and equivalents employed, without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure. Accordingly, it is expressly intended that all such variations, changes, and equivalents fall within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, as claimed.

Claims

Claims

1. An airless hair dryer (100, 300) comprising: a plurality of teeth (105A, 305A) protruding from a body (102, 302), each tooth of the plurality of teeth comprising: a positive electrode (110A-i), and a negative electrode (HOB-i), wherein the positive electrodes and the negative electrodes of the plurality of teeth are arranged in an alternating pattern; and a current source (135) configured to generate alternating electric fields between each tooth of the plurality of teeth, wherein each alternating electric field is between a positive electrode of one tooth and a negative electrode of an adjacent tooth.

2. The airless hair dryer of claim 1, wherein the plurality of teeth (105A) are arranged in a line.

3. The airless hair dryer of claim 1, wherein the plurality of teeth (305A) are arranged in a matrix.

4. The airless hair dryer of claim 1, wherein the adjacent tooth is one or more teeth directly adjacent to the tooth (105A, 305A).

5. The airless hair dryer of claim 1, wherein the body comprises: a first face (402A); a second face (402B); and a clamping mechanism (455) configured to bring the first face and the second face toward each other.

6. The airless hair dryer (100, 300) of claim 1, wherein the plurality of teeth are located on a front side of the first face, a front side of the second face, or both the front side of the first face and the front side of the second face; and wherein the plurality of teeth are located on a first side of the first face, a second side of the first face, a first side of the second face, a second side of the second face, or a combination thereof.

7. Cl. The airless hair dryer of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of teeth comprises a steam sensor (120), 32 each steam sensor being configured to detect dryness of the scalp, and when the dryness detected by the steam sensor reaches or exceeds a dryness threshold, an alternating electric field of the respective teeth of the plurality of teeth is deactivated.

8. The airless hair dryer of claim 1, further comprising at least one infrared (IR) light emitting diode (LED) (350A) configured to further dry the hair.

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