Hair treatment device, including for curling and / or straightening, using steam

Abstract

The invention relates to a hair treatment device, particularly for hair styling, especially for straightening and / or curling, comprising: - at least one fluid outlet configured to be adjacent to or in contact with the hair, - a fluid supply system for the at least one fluid outlet, - at least one capacitive sensor configured to detect the absence of fluid, particularly liquid, in the supply system at the level of the capacitive sensor, the at least one capacitive sensor being configured to emit a fluid detection signal in the supply system, and - an electronic control unit configured to emit at least one control signal in a fluid-free mode when the absence of fluid is detected based on the information emitted by the capacitive sensor. Figure for the abstract: Fig. 2

Description

Title of the invention: Steam-powered hair treatment device, particularly for curling and / or straightening. Technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to a hair treatment device, in particular for hair styling, especially for straightening and / or curling, and the corresponding treatment process. Previous technique

[0002] Many types of hair styling devices or accessories are known for shaping hair, particularly by straightening, curling or crimping. Straightening irons and curling irons are examples.

[0003] To improve hair treatment, some devices provide for the distribution of steam to a strand of hair or to the entire head of hair. Applications WO2014064660, EP2959793, EP2765884, and EP2449911 describe, for example, steam hair treatment devices in which a jaw includes a vaporization system and a system for distributing steam to a strand of hair. A fluid, typically water or a hair cosmetic product, is stored in a reservoir that supplies a vaporization chamber, in which the fluid is vaporized by heating means and distributed to steam outlets. In hair treatment devices implementing fluid emission, particularly in the form of vapor, it is important to know whether the fluid flows properly in the fluid supply device.This allows, in particular, the detection of whether the tank is empty or the supply is blocked, in order to, for example, act on the device automatically or manually to protect the supply system by preventing it from running dry or to reduce the electrical consumption related to the fluid supply.

[0004] The development of eco-responsible, environmentally friendly solutions, whose design and development take environmental issues into account, is becoming a major concern in order to help meet global challenges. It is therefore essential to design products that reduce the amount of energy used. In this context, it is important to develop hair treatment devices that do not use more energy than necessary for their proper functioning and to achieve the desired hair treatment results. Furthermore, this concern for energy conservation is also an important factor in the case of hair treatment devices with an internal power supply, particularly a battery, in order to increase the device's autonomy between uses. Electrical recharging. Therefore, there is a need to reduce the electrical consumption of hair treatment devices when it is not required.

[0005] There is therefore a need to improve hair treatment devices implementing fluid emission, in particular vapor, to limit their damage by inappropriate use and to reduce the electrical consumption of the hair treatment device. Description of the invention

[0006] The invention addresses this need by providing a hair treatment device, in particular for hair styling, especially for straightening and / or curling, comprising:

[0007] - At least one fluid outlet configured to be adjacent to or in contact with the hair,

[0008] - A fluid supply system with at least one fluid outlet,

[0009] - At least one capacitive sensor configured to detect an absence of fluid in the power supply system at the capacitive sensor level, with at least one capacitive sensor configured to output fluid detection information in the power supply system, and

[0010] - an electronic control unit configured to emit at least one signal of control in a fluid-free mode when an absence of fluid at the capacitive sensor is detected from the information emitted by the capacitive sensor.

[0011] The term "fluid" refers to a substance in either a liquid or gaseous state. The fluid emitted by the fluid outlet(s) and the fluid detected by the sensor may be in the same state of matter or in different states of matter. For example, the emitted fluid may be the fluid in its gaseous state, and the detected fluid may be the fluid in its liquid state before vaporization. In this case, as we will see later, the supply system may include a fluid vaporization system to change the fluid from a liquid to a gaseous state.

[0012] The term "capacitive sensor" refers to an electronic device capable of detecting a change in an electric field within its detection range. This change in the electric field may indicate the presence and / or movement of an object or fluid near the sensor. In this case, the capacitive sensor is used to detect the presence and / or movement of a fluid near the sensor and thereby provide information about the fluid in the supply system.

[0013] Thus, a capillary treatment device is obtained allowing the emission of fluid and comprising a simple device for detecting the absence of fluid supply.

[0014] Furthermore, the presence of the control unit acting on the device, particularly by controlling it in a fluid-free mode, allows for an operating mode or a shutdown that takes into account the absence of fluid applied to the hair. The detection information emitted by the capacitive sensor is relayed to the control unit, which can then, based on this information, emit a control signal for the device. In the event of a detected absence of fluid, the control unit emits a control signal for the device in a fluid-free mode specific to the absence of fluid. The fluid-free mode may include stopping the device or operating the device in a different mode than the operating mode of the device with fluid emission via at least one fluid outlet and / or include the emission of an alert signal by the device, particularly via a user alert device.The warning signal can be visual, audible, or haptic, upon detection of a lack of fluid in the fluidic conduit.

[0015] The fluid-free mode can be a mode of stopping the hair treatment device or a different operating mode of the device, in particular by stopping only part of the supply system, in particular a fluid circulation component and / or a heating element of the vaporization system, or by reducing energy consumption, in particular by reducing the temperature of one or more heating elements. Power supply system

[0016] The supply system may include in particular a fluid source and in particular a fluid reservoir in the liquid state, the reservoir being fluidly connected to at least one fluid outlet.

[0017] The fluid supply system may include a vaporization system, in particular for water vaporization, comprising at least one fluid-supplied vaporization chamber and a heating element configured to heat the vaporization chamber to a temperature greater than or equal to the vaporization temperature of the fluid, in particular water.

[0018] The heating element can have a variable temperature. The fluid-free mode can be an operating mode of the device in which the heating element is at a temperature lower than or equal to the vaporization temperature of the fluid. This makes it possible, in particular, to reduce power consumption in the absence of fluid, without completely stopping heating. A fluid-free operating mode, in which the heating temperature of the heating element is reduced, is advantageous because, like a preheating mode, it maintains a minimum temperature that allows for a rapid restart of vaporization when the vaporization chamber is again supplied with fluid. When fluid is detected again in the supply system, the control unit can command the heating element to switch back to a mode with fluid, in which the heating element is heated to a temperature allowing the vaporization of the fluid, and in particular the liquid, again.

[0019] The vaporization system can be supplied with liquid fluid by a fluidic system. The liquid fluid can be contained in a reservoir external to the device or internal to the device, as described previously, with the fluidic system fluidly connecting the reservoir to the vaporization chamber. Alternatively, the vaporization system is supplied with liquid fluid from another fluid source, in particular by connection to the general water supply.

[0020] Alternatively, the supply system is devoid of a vaporization system. The fluid may be delivered in liquid form. In this latter case, the supply system may include a system for projecting or nebulizing the liquid through at least one fluid outlet, in particular by pressurized projection from the fluid outlet or by application through a nebulizing nozzle.

[0021] The supply system may include a circulation element, in particular a pump, of the fluid in the supply system, in particular in the fluidic system.

[0022] The liquid circulation device can be configured to be mounted on the tank or the fluidic system, in particular a fluidic conduit of the fluidic system.

[0023] The circulation device can be a pump. The pump can be any type of pump, for example an electric or peristaltic pump.

[0024] The fluid circulation element can be mounted on a conduit, in particular a flexible conduit, of the supply system, in particular of the fluidic system, specifically on the fluidic conduit. Alternatively, the fluid circulation element is integrated into the fluidic system, in particular between two conduits of the fluidic system. It may include a circulation conduit allowing the passage of the fluid.

[0025] The fluidic system may include a single conduit connecting the fluid source, in particular the reservoir, and the vaporization system, in particular the vaporization chamber.

[0026] Alternatively, the fluidic system comprises a plurality of conduits between the fluid source, in particular the reservoir, and the vaporization system, in particular the vaporization chamber.

[0027] The fluidic system may include one or more conduits, one or more fluidic connectors, one or more detectors, an element of the fluid circulation device, in particular a pump, and / or an element of the detector, in particular a detection conduit, as we shall see later.

[0028] Preferably, the feeding system is configured to operate at a constant flow rate at a predetermined flow rate. Capacitive sensor

[0029] At least one capacitive sensor is preferably configured to detect the presence of the fluid in the liquid state. In the case of the emission of the fluid in the form of vapor from the fluid outlet(s), the capacitive sensor is therefore preferably located upstream of the vaporization system, in particular between the source of fluid in the liquid state, in particular the reservoir, and the vaporization system.

[0030] At least one capacitive sensor may include a signal processing unit configured to receive measurements of the electric field and deduce information on the presence and / or absence of fluid near the capacitive sensor.

[0031] The signal processing unit can be housed in the body of the hair treatment device, in particular at the level of a gripping part.

[0032] The signal processing unit and the electronic control unit can be the same electronic unit of the device.

[0033] Alternatively, the signal processing unit may be different from the electronic control unit. It may be associated with the capacitive sensor in a sensing module.

[0034] For example, the device may include a housing attached to the power supply system forming a detection unit and in which the capacitive sensor and the signal processing unit are housed.

[0035] At least one capacitive sensor may be positioned opposite or in contact with a fluidic conduit of the supply system, particularly the fluidic system supplying the vaporization system, to detect the presence or absence of fluid at its level circulating in said fluidic conduit. Such positioning is advantageous because it allows the absence of fluid to be detected regardless of the orientation of the treatment device. Indeed, during its use, the treatment device can be manipulated in all directions, but whatever its orientation, the fluidic conduit will always be filled with fluid during operation.

[0036] The capacitive sensor can be arranged on the external wall of the fluidic conduit, in particular in contact with the external wall of the fluidic conduit, and allow detection through the wall of the conduit.

[0037] Alternatively, the capacitive sensor can be integrated into a sensing unit that is integrated into the supply system, in particular between two conduits and comprising the fluid conduit through which the fluid can flow. At least one capacitive sensor can extend between the fluid source, in particular the reservoir, and the vaporization system, in particular the vaporization chamber.

[0038] According to one embodiment, at least one capacitive sensor is disposed upstream of the circulation element in the direction of fluid flow, i.e., from the reservoir to the at least one fluid outlet, in particular between the fluid source and the element of circulation. This allows the detection of a lack of fluid upstream of the circulation component and the stopping of the latter before it runs dry.

[0039] According to another embodiment, at least one capacitive sensor is disposed downstream of the circulation element in the direction of fluid flow, i.e., from the circulation element to the fluid outlet, in particular between the circulation element and the fluid outlet. This makes it possible to detect the absence of fluid in the conduit between the circulation element and at least one fluid outlet. In this case, at least one capacitive sensor can be arranged between the fluid circulation element and the vaporization chamber.

[0040] The fluidic detection conduit can be opaque or transparent.

[0041] Alternatively, the capacitive sensor is positioned opposite or in contact with a wall of the fluid reservoir. In this case, the capacitive sensor can be configured to detect the presence and / or absence of fluid throughout the entire volume of the reservoir. The capacitive sensor can extend over substantially the entire length of the fluid reservoir. It can be configured to detect the presence and / or absence of fluid along substantially the entire length of the reservoir. This allows, in particular, the detection of the presence or absence of fluid in the reservoir regardless of its orientation.

[0042] The capacitive sensor can be configured to detect an average of the variation in the electric field over its entire height. Alternatively, it can be configured to perform separate measurements of the variation in the electric field at several points along its height. An average of these separate measurements can then be calculated.

[0043] The capacitive sensor can be configured to detect the tank's fill level in at least one predetermined device orientation. In particular, in said device orientation, it can detect the average electric field variation over its entire height and deduce a fill level based on the detected average variation, or measure the electric field variation at several points along its height and deduce the fill level. The fill level can be defined by identifying the areas where fluid has been detected. The capacitive sensor, including its associated processing unit, can be configured to output information about the tank's fill level.

[0044] The capacitive sensor, in particular the associated processing unit, can be configured to detect a fluid level below a predetermined threshold in at least one orientation of the device, notably depending on its positioning on the tank. As we will see later, this can make it possible to anticipate that the tank will soon be empty and that refilling is necessary in order to prevent the device from switching to a fluid-free mode or to prevent it from doing so.

[0045] Alternatively, the capacitive sensor is arranged opposite or in contact with a wall of the fluid reservoir at a predetermined position in the reservoir, in particular at The sensor detects the proximity of a fluid outlet from the reservoir, or a liquid level in at least one orientation of the device corresponding to a quantity of fluid beyond which further fluid application is no longer possible. The capacitive sensor then generates a signal indicating that the supply system is empty. This allows, in particular, the detection of whether the fluid outlet is being supplied with fluid from the reservoir. Indeed, depending on the device's orientation, if the reservoir has a fixed volume (which is not ideal), the reservoir may not be empty even if the fluid outlet is not receiving fluid.

[0046] The processing device may include several capacitive sensors arranged in different positions. Each capacitive sensor may be as described above. For example, a first capacitive sensor may be positioned opposite or in contact with the fluidic conduit as described above, and a second capacitive sensor may be positioned opposite and in contact with the tank as described above, and in particular, to detect a tank fill level; or several capacitive sensors may be arranged opposite or in contact with a tank wall at different levels of the tank. Control unit

[0047] The control unit is preferably configured to control the circulation element. It can be configured to control the shutdown of the circulation element in no-fluid mode. This makes it possible, in particular, to limit the operation of the circulation element to dry running when the tank is empty or to forced running when the supply system is blocked, which could damage it.

[0048] The control unit can be configured to control the vaporization system. It can be configured to control the shutdown of the vaporization system in no-fluid mode. Alternatively, the control unit can be configured to control reduced-temperature operation of the vaporization system, in particular of a heating element of said vaporization system, especially within an operating range that is not switched off and below the vaporization temperature of the liquid. In this case, the control unit can also be configured to control the shutdown of the circulation element in no-fluid mode. This can limit the power consumption of the device when no vapor is emitted, while avoiding the need to reheat the vaporization system after the tank is refilled or the supply system is unblocked, as applicable.

[0049] The control unit can be configured to control the emission of a visual, audible, and / or haptic warning signal in fluid-free mode. Fluid-free mode may involve different device operation and a different warning signal. In this way, the device assumes a safety and / or energy-saving configuration, and the user can immediately identify that the device is no longer emitting fluid and refill the tank or unclog the supply system.

[0050] Furthermore, the control unit can issue a warning signal when the fluid level in the reservoir falls below a predetermined threshold, as described previously. In this situation, the warning signal alerts the user that they must refill or top up the reservoir with fluid. If the reservoir is refilled following the issuance of the warning, the insufficient fluid in the supply system is anticipated, for example, before the device switches to a fluid-free mode.

[0051] The control unit and / or the sensor, in particular the signal processing unit, can average several measurements from the capacitive sensor over time, including a moving average. This is particularly useful for measuring the fluid level in the tank. This eliminates measurement errors that can occur when the user moves the device while the tank is partially filled. Fluid tank

[0052] The reservoir can be mounted removably on the device. It can be housed in a compartment within the body of the hair treatment device, particularly at a gripping point. This allows it to be changed or refilled when empty. The device may include a fluid connection element in the compartment for fluidically connecting the reservoir to the fluid system. For example, the compartment may include a coupling interface with the reservoir.

[0053] The capacitive sensor can be arranged in the tank's receiving housing and come into contact with or opposite the tank when it is received in the housing. In this case, the capacitive sensor can be configured to detect the presence or absence of the tank in the housing. It can then output a tank detection signal, and the control unit can switch the device to a tankless mode when the absence of a tank is detected. The tankless mode can be identical to the fluidless mode or include the fluidless mode. In particular, the tankless mode can include a user alert for the absence of a tank.

[0054] The fluid reservoir can have a variable volume. In particular, it can include a piston forming the circulation element, as described previously. Alternatively, it can include a flexible membrane whose volume decreases when the liquid is sent to the fluid outlet(s). The flexible membrane can be configured to decrease the volume of the reservoir while keeping the remaining fluid against the wall over which the capacitive sensor is positioned. This allows, in particular, for fluid detection in the reservoir regardless of the device's orientation.

[0055] The tank may include a tank filling opening. Vaporization system

[0056] The device may include several fluid outlets configured to come into contact with or near the hair during treatment.

[0057] The supply system may include a fluid distribution system to the fluid outlet(s), comprising a fluid distribution chamber into which the fluid outlet(s) open. The fluid distribution chamber may be fluidly connected to the vaporization chamber.

[0058] The fluidic system may open into the vaporization chamber. The fluidic system may extend at least partially into the vaporization chamber.

[0059] The vaporization system and the distribution system can form a single housing comprising the vaporization chamber and the distribution chamber separated from each other by a partition and connected to each other by an opening in the partition. Cosmetic application device

[0060] According to one variant, the hair treatment device may include at least one area for applying a cosmetic product, preferably separate from the fluid outlet area(s), the application area comprising an element for applying a cosmetic product.

[0061] In other words, the device may further include an application element for a cosmetic composition on at least one treatment surface.

[0062] By "shaping composition" is meant a hair curling, setting, straightening or smoothing composition.

[0063] Cosmetic compositions include, for example, one or more active agents selected by reducing agents, and in particular thiols, oxidizing agents and in particular hydrogen peroxide or persalts, such as persulfates, coloring agents such as pigments, direct colorants or oxidation colorants, non-durable shaping agents such as styling polymers preferably anionic, amphoteric or non-ionic, conditioning agents such as silicones, mineral or vegetable oils, vegetable waxes, cationic surfactants and cationic polymers, alkaline or acidic agents. Device

[0064] The device may include a treatment sole onto which the fluid outlet(s) open or which extends laterally to the fluid outlet(s). The treatment sole may be a heating surface. The device may include one or more heating elements on the treatment sole. The heating element on the treatment sole may be the heating element of the vaporization system. Alternatively, the heating element(s) on the treatment sole are separate from that of the vaporization chamber. In this case, the heating can be controlled. of the vaporization chamber and the treatment sole in a substantially independent manner. The fluidless mode can then involve a decrease in the temperature of the heating element of the vaporization chamber while maintaining the temperature of the treatment sole at a treatment temperature or by having a temperature control of the treatment sole independent of that of the heating element of the vaporization chamber.

[0065] The device may include teeth, in particular arranged in one or more rows of teeth, extending in particular over the treatment sole.

[0066] The hair treatment device may comprise two jaws arranged opposite each other and articulated between a closed treatment configuration and an open hair engagement configuration between the jaws, at least one of the jaws comprising the feeding system, in particular the vaporization chamber. Each jaw may be supported by an arm, the two arms being movable relative to each other between the closed and open configurations of the jaws.

[0067] At least one of the jaws may include an internal processing element, in particular defining the processing sole, comprising an internal processing surface configured to come into contact with or opposite a part of the hair strand in closed configuration.

[0068] Preferably, each of the jaws has a heated treatment pad. In fluid-free mode, the temperature of the treatment pads can be controlled independently of that of the vaporization chamber or remain unchanged.

[0069] Preferably, the device, in particular the handpiece, includes a jaw configuration detection element to detect whether the jaws are in the closed processing configuration or open, in particular a proximity sensor or a Hall effect sensor.

[0070] The detection organ can be arranged between the two arms at the level of the half-handles.

[0071] The feeding system can be configured to supply the vaporization chamber with liquid fluid based on the chamber's temperature and / or the time elapsed since the device was started and / or the jaw configuration. The feeding system can be configured to supply the vaporization chamber only when the chamber temperature is above a predefined threshold temperature and / or when the time elapsed since the device was started is greater than or equal to a predetermined time corresponding, in particular, to the time required to reach a predefined threshold temperature of the vaporization chamber. The temperature of the vaporization chamber can be measured using a sensor placed in it or at the interface between the heating element and the vaporization chamber.

[0072] This control of the arrival of fluid in liquid state in the vaporization chamber as a function of temperature makes it possible to limit the risk of applying liquid water instead of vapor.

[0073] The feeding system can be configured to supply the vaporization chamber only when the jaws are closed. The feeding system can be configured to activate only if the jaw configuration detection device detects a closed jaw configuration, or to be blocked if the jaw configuration detection device detects an open jaw configuration.

[0074] The device may include a steam control element configured to control the application of steam to the hair. For example, the steam control element may control the flow of the fluid to be vaporized, such as water, into the vaporization chamber. When the user wants to apply steam to their hair, they can activate the steam control element, which then controls, for example, a pump connected to the reservoir to bring the fluid into the vaporization chamber. As explained previously, this supply of fluid to the vaporization chamber may be carried out according to certain additional conditions as described previously, including a certain chamber temperature, after a certain ignition time, depending on the configuration of the jaws and / or depending on the detection of fluid present in the fluidic system.The control device can be operated by the user via a selector switch, for example a two- or three-position button.

[0075] The device may, according to one embodiment, include a power supply. For example, the power supply is provided by means of accumulators and / or batteries and / or by means of an electrical cable connected to a mains socket or a mains adapter.

[0076] The power supply can in particular be used to power the heating element, the circulation element or the capacitive sensor directly or indirectly via a control circuit.

[0077] The processing device may include a base and a handpiece connected to the base. The handpiece may include two jaws and the joint connecting them. The reservoir may be located in the base. Alternatively, the reservoir may be housed within the handpiece; for example, the reservoir may be located in a recess provided in the handpiece. For example, the recess may be located in at least one jaw of the handpiece. In this configuration, the capacitive sensor may be on the tank, or, preferably, in the treatment device opposite the tank housing. Process

[0078] According to a second aspect, the invention relates to a hair treatment method using a hair treatment device, in particular using the hair treatment device as described above, comprising: - The supply of fluid to at least one fluid outlet by a fluid supply system of the device, - The detection of fluid in the supply system by a capacitive sensor and the emission of fluid detection information, and - The emission by a control unit of a control signal in a fluid-free mode of the device when an absence of fluid at the capacitive sensor in the supply system is detected from the fluid detection information.

[0079] The method may include a step of recording the signals transmitted by the capacitive sensor, for example the values ​​of variation of an electric field, and a step of deducing information on the presence of fluid in the fluidic system, in particular the reservoir or the fluidic conduit.

[0080] The fluid-free mode may include stopping a fluid circulation element in the fluidic conduit or the heating of a vaporization chamber in the supply system, and / or reducing the heating temperature of the vaporization chamber, and / or completely stopping the hair treatment device, and / or emitting an alert signal, for example visual or audible.

[0081] The method may include one or more of the features described above in connection with the hair treatment device independently of the device as defined above and individually or in combination with each other.

[0082] The treatment process may further include, in no way limitingly, a step of applying a cosmetic composition, such as, for example, a composition for cleansing, coloring, bleaching, conditioning, repairing, or styling hair. Brief description of the drawings

[0083] [Fig-1] represents an exploded view of a hair treatment device as described in the present invention.

[0084] [Fig.2] schematically illustrates, from a top view, a fluid supply system with the capacitive sensor of a processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0085] [Fig.3] schematically illustrates, from a top view, a system fluid supply with the capacitive sensor of a processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0086] [Fig.4] schematically illustrates, from a top view, a system fluid supply with the capacitive sensor of a processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0087] [Fig.5] schematically illustrates, from a top view, a system fluid supply to the vaporization chamber of the treatment device according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0088] [Fig.6] schematically illustrates, from a top view, a system fluid supply with the capacitive sensor of a processing device according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0089] [Fig.7] schematically illustrates an example of a regulation loop of the treatment device related to the absence or presence of fluid in the vaporization chamber supply system.

[0090] [Fig.8] illustrates schematically, using a flowchart, a process of hair treatment according to an embodiment of the invention. Detailed description

[0091] In the following description, identical elements or elements with identical functions bear the same reference numeral. For the sake of brevity, they are not described opposite each figure; only the differences between the embodiments are described.

[0092] In the figures, the actual proportions have not always been respected, for the sake of clarity.

[0093] Fig. 1 illustrates an exploded perspective view of a device 1 for processing, in particular for shaping hair, in particular for straightening, using steam to shape hair.

[0094] Device 1 illustrated is of the hair straightener type. However, the invention is not limited to such a device. A person skilled in the art will readily be able to apply the invention to another styling device, in particular a curling or brushing device.

[0095] In the illustrated example, the device comprises a first arm 2 and a second arm 3 articulated to each other by means of a hinge-type joint 20. Each of the two arms 2 and 3 comprises a proximal half-handle portion including the joint and a distal portion forming, respectively, a first and second jaw 5 and 6 facing each other. The maximum opening angle (not shown) between the first and second arms is between 5° and 60°. Preferably between 10° and 20°, and preferably approximately 15°. Jaws 5 and 6 can assume an open configuration corresponding to the maximum opening angle and a closed treatment configuration. Joint 20 may include an elastic element to hold jaws 5 and 6 in the open position at rest. The user must therefore mechanically bring the jaws together to assume the closed configuration for treating hair.

[0096] A non-visible treatment sole is carried by the first jaw 5 and a treatment sole 4 is carried by the second jaw 6, the first and second soles 4 being intended to pinch a strand of hair between them in the closed configuration of the jaws 5 and 6. The treatment sole and the second treatment surface 4 are generally complementary surfaces.

[0097] Each treatment plate has an internal treatment surface configured to come into contact with or opposite a portion of the hair strand in the closed position. The internal treatment surface may be a heat treatment surface, in particular a heating plate, extending opposite the other jaw. They may have different shapes depending on the intended use of the styling appliance 1 and are preferably interchangeable. Typically, the treatment plates are flat for use of the styling appliance 1 as a straightening appliance, or curved (not shown) for use as a curling appliance, or wavy (not shown) for use as a crimping appliance. A curling appliance is, for example, described in document EP0619087.The treatment surfaces may also be uneven, i.e., have a plurality of protrusions such as teeth or bumps (not illustrated).

[0098] Each treatment plate comprises an internal treatment surface configured to come into contact with or opposite a portion of the hair strand in its closed configuration. The internal treatment surface may be a heat treatment surface, the internal treatment element being, in particular, a heating plate, extending opposite the other jaw.

[0099] The treatment device 1 is configured to distribute steam towards one or more strands of hair which are pinched in particular between the treatment soles of the two jaws 5, 6 in closed configuration.

[0100] As illustrated in [Fig. 1], the treatment device 1 may include one or more fluid outlets 40, in particular steam outlets. The fluid outlets 40 are configured to be adjacent to or in contact with the hair. The fluid outlets 40 are provided here in the second treatment plate 4 so as to come into contact with the hair.

[0101] The treatment device 1 includes a supply system 7 configured to supply the fluid outlets 40 with fluid, particularly steam. For this purpose, the supply system 7 includes a fluid reservoir 70, typically a water reservoir (not shown in [Fig. 1]), and / or a reservoir containing a cosmetic product, which may be integrated into one of the jaws or, alternatively, arranged remotely from the device in a so-called remote base. Alternatively, the supply system 7 may include a reservoir containing a cosmetic product. This reservoir may be associated with an application element that is preferably separate from the fluid outlets 40. The cosmetic product may be a cosmetic composition, for example, a styling composition for curling, setting, straightening, or smoothing.

[0102] Cosmetic compositions include, for example, one or more active agents selected by reducing agents, and in particular thiols, oxidizing agents and in particular hydrogen peroxide or persalts, such as persulfates, coloring agents such as pigments, direct colorants or oxidation colorants, non-durable shaping agents such as styling polymers preferably anionic, amphoteric or non-ionic, conditioning agents such as silicones, mineral or vegetable oils, vegetable waxes, cationic surfactants and cationic polymers, alkaline or acidic agents.

[0103] As illustrated in Figures 2 to 6, the fluid reservoir 70 is in fluid communication with a fluid vaporization system 71 via a fluid outlet 700 of a fluidic system. The fluid outlet 700 connects the reservoir to a fluidic conduit 72 of the fluidic system, as shown in [Fig. 3]. The fluidic conduit 72 may be opaque or transparent.

[0104] The reservoir 70 can be removably mounted on the treatment device 1. It can be housed in a recess in the body of the hair treatment device, particularly at a gripping portion. In particular, in the example of [Fig. 1], the reservoir 70 is located at the second arm 3. The treatment device 1 may include a fluidic connection element in the recess for fluidically connecting the reservoir 70 to the fluidic system. For example, the recess may then include a coupling interface with the reservoir 70. The reservoir 70 may include a reservoir filling opening.

[0105] The vaporization system 71 comprises at least one vaporization chamber 73 occupying a continuous volume in which vaporization takes place, that is, a defined volume without discontinuities. The vaporization chamber 73 may be substantially parallelepiped-shaped, having, for example, a rectangular, square, or trapezoidal cross-section. This provides a good compromise between the compactness and efficiency of the vaporization system 71. The vaporization system 71 of the system The inlet 7 is in fluidic communication with the fluid outlet(s) 40, particularly at the vaporization chamber 73. The latter is configured to produce steam and transmit it to the fluid outlets 40.

[0106] The vaporization chamber 73 is here in the shape of a parallelepiped and comprises two vaporization volumes 730, 731 separated by a partition forming a small passage between the two vaporization volumes. The first vaporization chamber 730 is then arranged upstream of the second vaporization chamber 731 in the direction of vapor flow.

[0107] The vaporization chamber 73 may include an upper wall formed by the lid 12 and a lower wall formed by the bottom wall of the body 10. The body 10 and the lid 12 may be made of a metal, an alloy, or any heat-conducting material. The vaporization chamber also includes two lateral walls defining its width and two proximal and distal walls forming the longitudinal ends of the vaporization chamber 73 and defining its length. Preferably, the two upper and lower walls are the walls of the vaporization chamber with the largest surface area. As illustrated in [Fig. 1], the vaporization chamber 73 extends, for example, along a principal axis X parallel to a longitudinal axis L of the device.

[0108] The vaporization system 71 includes a heating element 8 which heats the vaporization chamber 73. For this purpose, the heating element is coupled to at least one wall of the vaporization chamber 73. In the example of [Fig. 2], the heating element is coupled to the lower wall 10 of the vaporization chamber 73. In particular, the heating element 8 can extend against the lower wall 10 at least at the level of the second vaporization volume 731. The heating element 8 can be arranged outside the vaporization chamber 73 because the lower wall 10 is advantageously heat-conductive.

[0109] The heating element 8 can typically be an electrical resistance known as a Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) or a ceramic, but more generally any system allowing the vaporization chamber 73 to be heated in accordance with the intended purpose.

[0110] The heating element 8 can be regulated by a thermistor, for example a negative temperature coefficient or NTC thermistor, functioning as a temperature probe, preferably arranged above the injection point. The thermistor can improve the safety of the hair styling device 1 by blocking the injection of liquid under specific conditions, for example depending on the temperature of the heating element 8. The thermistor can also regulate the heating temperature of the heating element 8 or stop the heating when a An absence of liquid in the intake system 7 is detected. Lowering the heating temperature of the heating element 8 is advantageous when there is no liquid, as this maintains a minimum temperature in the vaporization chamber 73. For example, the minimum temperature could be 90°C. When the supply system 7 is replenished with liquid, vaporization can restart quickly.

[0111] The vaporization chamber 73 can be in fluidic communication with a distribution chamber 74 that supplies the steam outlets 40. As illustrated in [Fig. 1], the vaporization chamber 73 and the distribution chamber 74 can form a single unit. The steam produced in the vaporization chamber 73 thus flows towards the fluid outlets 40, where it comes into contact with the user's hair. It is preferable to keep the fluidic outlet of the fluidic conduit 72 away from the steam distribution means 74 in order to limit the risk of ejecting hot water that has not had time to vaporize. The fluidic conduit 72 can be centered on the principal axis X of the vaporization chamber 73 or offset laterally from this same axis.

[0112] Advantageously, the portion forming the free end 720 of the fluidic conduit 72 can be beveled. Such a specific shape makes it possible to concentrate any accumulation of scale in a specific area while providing an area where the liquid can continue to enter the vaporization chamber 73 without being hindered by scale accumulation.

[0113] The vaporization system 71 can thus be supplied with fluid in liquid state by the fluidic system fluidically connecting a fluid source such as the reservoir 70 to the vaporization chamber 73.

[0114] Alternatively, the supply system 7 may be without a vaporization system. The fluid may be delivered in liquid form. In this latter case, the supply system 7 may include a system for projecting or nebulizing the liquid through at least one fluid outlet 40, in particular by pressurized projection from the fluid outlet or by application through a nebulizing nozzle.

[0115] As illustrated in Figures 2 to 6, the supply system 7 may include a circulation element 75, in particular a pump, for circulating the fluid within the supply system 7 and, in particular, within the fluidic system. The pump may, for example, be of the peristaltic or electric type. As illustrated in particular in [Fig. 2], the circulation element 75 may be located at the fluidic connection between the fluidic conduit 72 and the reservoir 70. However, as illustrated in [Fig. 3], the circulation element 75 may also be located on a section of the fluidic conduit 72 between the reservoir 70 and the vaporization chamber 73. In this case, the fluidic conduit 72 may be a flexible conduit. The circulation element 75 causes a displacement of the fluid, in liquid state, contained in the reservoir 70 towards the vaporization chamber 73. The direction of circulation 750 of the liquid contained in the reservoir 70 is illustrated in figures 2 to 6 by an arrow extending from the reservoir 70 to the inside of the vaporization chamber 73. The circulation element 75 is controlled by the electronic control unit 100 of the processing device 1.

[0116] Alternatively, the circulation element 75 can be integrated into the fluidic system, in particular between two conduits of the fluidic system. It may include a circulation conduit allowing the passage of the liquid.

[0117] The fluidic system may include a single conduit connecting the fluid source, in particular the reservoir 70, and the vaporization system 71, in particular the vaporization chamber 73. Alternatively, the fluidic system includes a plurality of conduits between the fluid source, in particular the reservoir 70, and the vaporization system 71, in particular the vaporization chamber 73.

[0118] The fluidic system may include one or more conduits, one or more fluidic connectors, one or more detectors, an element of the fluid circulation device 75, in particular of a pump, and / or an element of the detector.

[0119] Preferably, the feeding system is configured to operate at a constant flow rate at a predetermined flow rate.

[0120] For example, the control unit 100 can control the supply of vaporization chamber 73 according to different parameters: depending on the temperature of the heating element 8, depending on the time elapsed since the device was started, depending on the configuration of the jaws.

[0121] The circulation element 75 can thus be controlled to supply the vaporization chamber 73 only when the temperature of the chamber is above a predefined threshold temperature and / or when the time elapsed since the start-up of the device is greater than or equal to a predetermined time corresponding in particular to the time to rise to a predefined threshold temperature of the vaporization chamber and in particular of the heating element 8. Typically, the temperature of the vaporization chamber 73 can be measured using a sensor disposed in it or at the interface between the heating element 8 and the vaporization chamber 73.

[0122] The device may include a steam control element configured to control the application of steam to the hair. For example, the steam control element may control the flow of the fluid to be vaporized, such as water, into the vaporization chamber. When the user wants to apply steam to their hair, they can actuate the steam control element, which then controls, for example, a pump such as the circulation element 75 connected to the reservoir 70 to bring the fluid into the vaporization chamber 73. As explained previously, This fluid supply to the vaporization chamber 73 can be carried out according to certain additional conditions as described previously, including a certain chamber temperature, after a certain ignition time, and / or according to the configuration of the jaws and / or according to the detection of fluid present in the fluidic system. The control element can be operated by the user via a selector, for example a two- or three-position button. The selector can be located on an arm, for example, at the level of the human-machine interface 101 visible in [Fig. 1].

[0123] Furthermore, when a lack of fluid is detected in the supply system 7, the control unit 100 can command the circulation element 75 to stop. The absence of fluid in the supply system 7 can be determined using at least one capacitive sensor 9, in particular a commercially available capacitive sensor configured to detect the absence of fluid, and in particular liquid, with regard to its capacitive measuring unit(s), and in particular its electrodes. Typically, the capacitive sensor may comprise two electrodes. The presence or absence of water can be assessed based on the changes in the capacitive value between the two electrodes related to the presence or movement of liquid in the supply system.The capacitive sensor 9 may also include a signal processing unit which receives measurements from the electrodes, including the electric field they measure, and which is configured to deduce information on the presence and / or absence of liquid with respect to the capacitive sensor.

[0124] The signal processing unit can be housed within the body of the hair treatment device, particularly at a gripping portion. The signal processing unit and the electronic control unit 100 can be a single electronic unit of the treatment device 1.

[0125] Alternatively, the signal processing unit may be different from the electronic control unit. It may be associated with the capacitive sensor 9 in a sensing module. For example, the processing device 1 may comprise a housing integral with the power supply system 7, forming a sensing unit, in which the capacitive sensor 9 and the signal processing unit are housed.

[0126] As illustrated in [Fig.7], the capacitive sensor 9 is connected electronically and / or electrically to the control unit 100. Through this connection, the capacitive sensor 9 transmits to the control unit 100 information 90 on the absence and / or presence of liquid opposite its electrodes.

[0127] The capacitive sensor 9 can thus be arranged in several positions of the supply system 7 and in particular of the fluidic system which supplies the vaporization system 71. In the example of Figures 2 and 3, the capacitive sensor 9 is advantageously positioned in contact with or facing a portion of the fluidic conduit 72. The capacitive sensor can be mounted on the outer wall of the fluidic conduit, in particular in contact with the outer wall of the fluidic conduit, and allow detection through the conduit wall. Integrating the sensor 9 onto the fluidic conduit 72 makes it possible to detect the presence and / or absence of power in the cross-section of the fluidic conduit, regardless of the spatial orientation of the processing device 1.

[0128] The capacitive sensor 9 can be placed in several positions on the fluidic conduit 72, as illustrated in Figures 2 and 3. However, the capacitive sensor 9 is preferably located on the portion of the fluidic conduit 72 that lies outside the vaporization chamber 73. More specifically, the sensor 9 can be placed on the portion of the fluidic conduit 72 that lies between the reservoir 70 and the vaporization chamber 73. On this portion of the conduit 72, the sensor 9 can be positioned in the first half of the conduit on the side of the reservoir 70, as illustrated in [Fig. 2], downstream of the circulation element 75. According to an arrangement illustrated in [Fig. 3], the circulation element 75 can be located on the fluidic conduit 72 while the capacitive sensor 9 is placed on a portion of the conduit 72 that is interposed between the reservoir 70 and the circulation element. 75.This arrangement allows for targeted detection of whether the circulatory organ 75 is draining fluid or operating dry.

[0129] Alternatively, the capacitive sensor 9 can be integrated into a sensing unit that is integrated into the supply system 7, in particular between two conduits and comprising the fluid conduit 72 in which the fluid can flow. As illustrated in Figures 4 to 6, the processing device 1 can also include a capacitive sensor 9 located at the reservoir 70. The capacitive sensor 9 can advantageously be placed in contact with or opposite a wall of the reservoir 70. The fluid reservoir 70 can have a variable volume. In particular, it can include a piston forming the circulation element 75. Alternatively, it can include a flexible membrane whose volume decreases when the liquid is sent to the fluid outlet(s) 40. The flexible membrane can be configured to decrease the volume of the reservoir 70 while keeping the remaining fluid against the wall over which the capacitive sensor 9 extends.This allows, in particular, for fluid detection to be possible in tank 70 regardless of the device's orientation.

[0130] The capacitive sensor 9 preferably covers the entire surface of the wall of the tank 70. However, the capacitive sensor 9 can extend substantially along the entire length of the wall of the tank 70. By "substantially," it should be understood that the capacitive sensor 9 can have a length equal to or slightly less than that of the wall of the tank 70. In this configuration, the capacitive sensor 9 can measure the presence and / or absence of liquid in the tank 70, whatever This refers to the spatial orientation of the reservoir 70. This configuration is advantageous when the reservoir 70 is located in the handpiece of the treatment device, which includes the two jaws 5 and 6 of the treatment device 1. In the example shown in [Fig. 1], the reservoir 70 can be positioned in a jaw 5 or 6 of the treatment device 1, and specifically in jaw 6, which includes the vaporization system 71. When the reservoir is removable from a housing in the handpiece, the capacitive sensor 9 can be positioned in the housing for the reservoir 70 and come into contact with or opposite the reservoir 70 when it is received in the housing. In this case, the capacitive sensor 9 can be configured to detect the presence or absence of the reservoir 70 in the housing. It can then send a signal indicating the presence of the reservoir 70, and the control unit 100 can switch the device to a tankless mode when the absence of the reservoir 70 is detected.The tankless mode may be identical to the fluidless mode or include the fluidless mode. In particular, the tankless mode may include a user alert when the tank is empty.

[0131] Furthermore, the handpiece may advantageously include a device for detecting the configuration of the jaws 5, 6. The detection device may be arranged between the two arms, in particular at the half-handles, to detect whether the jaws 5, 6 are in the closed processing configuration or in the open configuration. For this purpose, the detection device may, for example, include a proximity sensor or a Hall effect sensor.

[0132] As illustrated in [Fig. 4], the capacitive sensor 9 can also extend along the entire length of the reservoir 70, but only over a portion of its width. This configuration advantageously allows for measuring the fill level of a fixed reservoir 70, which is thus offset from the handpiece and fluidically connected to it by a tube, since, in this case, its orientation does not change with the handpiece. This configuration corresponds to an unillustrated embodiment of the invention, in which the fluid in its liquid state can be contained in a reservoir external to the treatment device 1. In this respect, the treatment device 1 can include a fixed base comprising the reservoir 70. The fixed base can also include means for electrical connection to a power distribution network. The vaporization chamber 73 of the handpiece can then be fluidly connected to the reservoir 70 by a tube.The handpiece can also be electrically connected, notably via a dedicated cable, to the base to power its electronics and components. Note that the vaporization chamber 73 can also be detached from the handpiece and placed within the fixed base.

[0133] Alternatively, the vaporization system 71 is supplied with fluid in liquid state from another fluid source, in particular by connection to the general water network.

[0134] Whether the reservoir is integrated into the handpiece or in a remote fixed base, the capacitive sensor 9 can assess the fill level in several ways. For example, the processing unit of the capacitive sensor 9 or the control unit can assess the fill level of the reservoir by averaging the change in the capacitive value or the variation in the electric field measured over the entire height of the capacitive sensor 9. The capacitive sensor 9 can also be configured to measure several distinct points along the height of the reservoir. In this case, the processing unit of the sensor 9 can assess the fill level by identifying the areas where fluid has been detected. The processing unit can be configured to detect a fluid level below a predetermined threshold.When the fluid level falls below a predetermined threshold, the treatment unit can advantageously transmit an alert to the control unit 100. The latter can then be configured to trigger an alert such as a light indicator which may or may not be combined with an audible signal informing the user that the tank needs to be refilled.

[0135] The capacitive sensor 9 can be configured to detect the fill level of the tank 70 in at least one predetermined orientation of the processing device 1. In particular, in said orientation of the device, it can detect the average variation of the electric field over its entire height and deduce a fill level based on the detected average variation, or measure the variation of the electric field at several points along its height and deduce the fill level. Alternatively, the control unit 100 can be configured to determine the fill level of the tank 70 according to at least one orientation. According to this alternative, the capacitive sensor 9 transmits its measurements directly to the control unit 100.

[0136] Alternatively, the capacitive sensor 9 can be positioned opposite or in contact with a wall of the fluid reservoir 70 at a predetermined position within the reservoir. The capacitive sensor 9 can, in particular, be arranged near a fluid outlet of the reservoir 70, typically near the fluid outlet that is connected to the fluid conduit 72. Alternatively, the capacitive sensor 9 can be arranged according to a liquid level in at least one orientation of the device corresponding to a quantity of fluid above which further fluid application is no longer possible, and the sensor 9 generates an empty supply system 7 signal. This makes it possible, in particular, to detect whether the fluid outlet is being supplied with fluid from the reservoir. Indeed, depending on the orientation of the device, if the reservoir has a fixed volume, which is not preferred, the reservoir may not be empty without the fluid outlet of the reservoir receiving fluid.

[0137] As illustrated in [Fig. 6], the processing device 1 can include several capacitive sensors 9 placed at different locations in the supply system 7. In this example, the processing device 1 includes a first capacitive sensor 9 opposite a wall of the tank 70. Preferably, this first sensor can extend over the entire surface of the wall of the tank 70. It is thus possible to measure the fill level of the tank, but also the drop in the fluid level below a predetermined fill threshold. Alternatively, several capacitive sensors can be arranged opposite or in contact with a wall of the tank 70 at different levels of the tank. A second capacitive sensor 9 is placed at the level of the fluidic conduit 72 near the vaporization chamber 73. This arrangement makes it possible to detect an absence of fluid in the fluidic conduit 72 independently of the presence of fluid in the tank 70.Such a situation can occur when the fluidic conduit 72 is obstructed or when the circulatory organ 75 malfunctions.

[0138] As illustrated in [Fig. 7], the capacitive sensor 9 sends information 90 to the control unit 100 on the presence and / or absence of fluid, and in particular liquid, in the feed system 7, and more specifically, at the level of the capacitive sensor 9. The control unit 100 is configured to determine a control signal from the information 90 on the presence of fluid in the feed system 7. The control unit 35 controls the processing device 1 in a fluid-free mode upon detection of an absence of fluid in the feed system 7, and in particular with regard to the capacitive sensor 9.

[0139] The electronic control unit 100 can be integrated into an arm 2, 3 of the processing device 1. In particular, in the example, the control unit 100 is arranged in the first arm 2 near the human-machine interface 101 of the processing device 1. Here, the human-machine interface 101 includes indicator lights, audible alarms, and haptics controlled by the control unit 100.

[0140] When the control unit 100 receives information 90 concerning the absence of fluid in the supply system 7, the control unit 100 can stop the circulation element 75 and maintain the operation of the vaporization system 71 at a reduced temperature, i.e., with the heating element 8 of the system maintained at a reduced temperature in order to reduce power consumption while allowing for a rapid resumption of processing. The device 1 then operates in a fluid-free mode, in which the temperature of the treatment plate 4 can be maintained at a processing temperature. For this purpose, the treatment plate 4 preferably includes temperature control independent of that of the heating element 8 of the vaporization chamber 73.

[0141] When fluid is again detected in the supply system 7, the control unit 100 can command the heating element 8 to switch back to a mode with fluid, in which the heating element 8 is heated to a temperature allowing the vaporization of the fluid and in particular the liquid again.

[0142] In addition, the control unit 100 can also transmit a command to the human-machine interface 101 to warn the user, typically by means of an indicator light, an audible signal, and / or haptic feedback, of the absence of fluid in the supply system 7. The fluid-free mode may include different operation of the processing device 1 and an alert signal. In this way, the device assumes a safety and / or economy configuration, and the user can immediately identify that the device is no longer emitting fluid and refill the tank or unblock the supply system.

[0143] When a capacitive sensor 9 is positioned at the level of the reservoir 70 and measures the fluid level of the reservoir 70, the control unit 100 can average the measurements from the capacitive sensor 9 over time to determine the reservoir level. Advantageously, the control unit 100 can perform a moving average over time. This eliminates isolated and unrepresentative measurements of the fill level that may result from changes in the position and orientation of the processing device in space while the reservoir is partially filled. This is particularly relevant when the reservoir 70 is integrated into the handpiece of the processing device 1.

[0144] The device 1 may, according to one embodiment, include a power supply. For example, the power supply is provided by means of accumulators and / or batteries and / or by means of an electrical cable connected to a mains socket or a mains adapter.

[0145] The power supply can in particular be used to power the heating element 8, the circulation element 75 or the capacitive sensor 9 directly or indirectly via a control circuit.

[0146] Thanks to the treatment device according to the invention, it is possible to know if the circulation of liquid in the fluidic conduit at the detector is stopped and to deduce that the reservoir is empty or the circulation of liquid is prevented upstream of the detector, because, if this is the case, the capillary treatment loses its effectiveness and the dry operation of the vaporization chamber and the pump can lead to degradation of the equipment, as well as overconsumption of energy.

[0147] This overconsumption is economically harmful, but can also impair the autonomy of the device if it operates on battery power.

[0148] As illustrated in [Fig. 8], one aspect of the invention relates to a hair treatment method 200 which notably uses a hair treatment device 1 conforming to an embodiment of the invention. The treatment process 200 can thus include supplying 201 to at least one fluid outlet 40 with fluid by a fluid supply system 7 of the device 1. The supply 201 can be carried out as described above.

[0149] The treatment process 200 may advantageously include detecting the fluid 202 in the feed system 7 by a capacitive sensor 9 and emitting a fluid detection signal 90, as illustrated in [Fig. 7]. When a capacitive sensor 9 is located at the reservoir 70, the treatment process 200 may include measuring the fluid level in the reservoir 70, as described above. Since this step is optional, a dashed arrow is shown in [Fig. 8] to symbolize its optional nature.

[0150] The method may include a step of recording the signals transmitted by the capacitive sensor, for example the values ​​of variation of an electric field, and a step of deducing information on the presence of fluid in the fluidic system, in particular the reservoir 70 or the fluidic conduit 72.

[0151] As illustrated in [Fig. 8], the treatment process 200 may include the emission 204 by a control unit 100 of a control signal in a fluid-free mode of the treatment device 1 when a lack of fluid is detected from the fluid detection information 90. The fluid-free mode may include the shutdown of a fluid circulation element 75 in the fluid conduit 72 or the heating of a vaporization chamber 73 in the feed system 7 and / or the complete shutdown of the capillary treatment device and / or the emission of an alert signal, for example, visual or audible. As described above, the fluid-free mode may also include a reduction in the heating temperature of the vaporization chamber 73.

[0152] The method may include one or more of the features described above in connection with the hair treatment device 1 independently of the device as defined above and individually or in combination with each other.

[0153] The treatment process may further include, in no way limitingly, a step of applying a cosmetic composition, such as, for example, a cleansing, coloring, bleaching, conditioning, repairing, hair styling composition.

Claims

Demands

1. Hair treatment device (1), in particular for hair styling, in particular for straightening and / or curling, comprising: - at least one fluid outlet (40) configured to be adjacent to or in contact with the hair, - a fluid supply system (7) for the at least one fluid outlet (40), - at least one capacitive sensor (9) configured to detect an absence of fluid, in particular liquid, in the supply system (7) at the level of the capacitive sensor (9), the at least one capacitive sensor (9) being configured to emit a fluid detection information in the supply system (7), and - an electronic control unit (100) configured to emit at least one control signal in a fluid-free mode when an absence of fluid at the level of the capacitive sensor is detected from the information emitted by the capacitive sensor (9).

2. Hair treatment device (1), according to claim 1, wherein the supply system (7) comprises a fluid reservoir (70) fluidically connected to at least one fluid outlet (40).

3. Hair treatment device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the supply system (7) comprises a vaporization system (71), in particular a water vaporization system, comprising at least one fluid-supplied vaporization chamber (73) and a heating element (8) configured to heat the vaporization chamber to a temperature greater than or equal to the vaporization temperature of the fluid, the control unit (100) being configured to control the vaporization system (71), in particular stopping the vaporization system (71) in fluid-free mode or operating the vaporization system (71) at a reduced temperature, in particular a heating element (8) of said vaporization system (71), in particular in an operating range that is not off and below the vaporization temperature of the liquid.

4. Hair treatment device (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the fluid-free mode is an operating mode of the device (1) in which the heating element (8) is at a temperature less than or equal to the vaporization temperature of the fluid.

5. Hair treatment device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the supply system (7) comprises a circulation element (75), in particular a pump, of the fluid in the supply system (7), the control unit (100) being configured to control the circulation element (75), in particular, the control unit (100) is configured to control the stopping of the circulation element (75) when it determines the control signal in fluid-free mode.

6. Hair treatment device (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the supply system (7) comprises a fluid reservoir (70) fluidically connected to at least one fluid outlet (40) and the circulation member (75) is configured to be mounted on the reservoir or a fluidic system extending between the reservoir and the vaporization system, in particular a fluidic conduit (72) of the fluidic system.

7. Hair treatment device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one capacitive sensor (9) is configured to detect the presence of fluid in the liquid state.

8. Hair treatment device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one capacitive sensor (9) is disposed opposite or in contact with a fluidic conduit (72) of the supply system (7), in particular of the fluidic system supplying the vaporization system to detect the presence or absence of fluid at its level circulating in said fluidic conduit (72).

9. Hair treatment device (1) according to any one of claims 6 and 7, wherein at least one sensor (9) is upstream of the circulation member (75) in the direction of fluid flow, i.e. from the reservoir (70) to at least one fluid outlet (40), in particular between the reservoir (70) and the circulation member (75).

10. Hair treatment device (1) according to claim 2, wherein at least one capacitive sensor (9) is disposed in view of or in contact with a wall of the fluid reservoir (70), the capacitive sensor (9) being in particular configured to detect the presence and / or absence of fluid in the entire volume of the reservoir (70).

11. Hair treatment device (1) according to claim 10, wherein at least one sensor (9) extends substantially over the entire length of the reservoir (70).

12. Hair treatment device (1) according to any one of claims 10 and 11, wherein at least one sensor (9) is configured to detect the fill level of the reservoir (70) in at least one predetermined orientation of the device.

13. Hair treatment device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising two jaws (5, 6) arranged opposite each other and articulated between a closed treatment configuration and an open hair engagement configuration between the jaws (5, 6), at least one of the jaws (5, 6) comprising the feeding system (7).

14. Hair treatment device (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein at least one of the jaws (5, 6) comprises an internal treatment element, in particular defining the treatment sole (4), comprising an internal treatment surface configured to come into contact or face a part of the hair strand in closed configuration.

15. A hair treatment method (200) using a hair treatment device, in particular using the hair treatment device (1) defined according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising: the supply (201) of at least one fluid outlet (40) with fluid by a fluid supply system (7) of the device (1), the detection (202) of the fluid in the supply system (7) by a capacitive sensor (9) and the emission of a fluid detection information (90), and the emission (204) by a control unit (100) of a control signal in a fluid-free mode of the device when an absence of fluid at the capacitive sensor (9) in the supply system (7) is detected from the fluid detection information (90).

Images