Haircare device and bristle

Abstract

A haircare device 150 comprises a bristle bed 154 having a plurality of bristles 101 protruding from the bed, each bristle including a proximal end 108 nearest the bed, a distal end 114 furthest from

Description

BACKGROUND Some haircare devices, such as hairbrushes, include bristles. Bristles can aid in smoothing and detangling hair, as well as applying tension to a tress of hair, e.g. for styling. Haircare devices having bristles can take a variety of forms, including brushes and attachments for mounting to a haircare appliance. SUMMARY According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a haircare device comprising: a bristle bed having a longitudinal axis and a transverse axis; and a plurality of bristles protruding from the bed, each bristle having a proximal end nearest the bed, a distal end furthest from the bed, and an intermediate portion between the proximal and distal ends, the plurality of bristles comprising a first set of bristles and a second set of bristles, wherein: the first set of bristles is arranged substantially along the longitudinal axis; the intermediate portion of each bristle of the first set of bristles is curved, such that the distal end of each bristle of the first set is substantially aligned with the transverse axis; and the distal end of each bristle of the second set of bristles is oriented in a different direction to the distal end of each bristle of the first set, wherein the proximal end of each bristle of the first set of bristles comprises a first radial direction and a second radial direction, perpendicular to the first radial direction, and wherein a flexural modulus along the first radial direction is greater than a flexural modulus along the second radial direction. A straight bristle ending in a point, which may be relatively sharp, can scratch the scalp of a user and cause discomfort. Enlarged rounded tips can be added to straight bristles to improve scalp comfort. However, hair can snag on the rounded tips, causing hair breakage and deformation of the bristles. The curved intermediate portion in examples herein may angle the distal end of a respective bristle of the first set of bristles to increase the area of contact between the distal end of the respective bristle relative to the scalp compared to a straight bristle. This can reduce or avoid scratching of the scalp when the haircare device is used, improving comfort for the user. The flexural modulus is a ratio of stress to strain in response to flexural deformation, and may represent a measure of flexural stiffness, or resistance to bending. The flexural stiffness of each of the first set of bristles is greater along the first radial direction than along the second radial direction, such that the first set of bristles resist bending to a greater extent along the first radial direction than along the second radial direction. This may improve the robustness of the first set of bristles, while allowing sufficient flex to reduce snagging of the hair on the first set of bristles. The curved intermediate portion of the bristles captures more hair than a straight bristle, which facilitates an increase in hair tension. This can make the haircare device a more effective tool for dividing hair into different sections, which may be referred to as sectioning of hair, e.g., for styling of the hair. The increased hair capture by the intermediate portion may be utilised to increase lift of the hair at the root to increase hair volume. The curved intermediate portion may extend along an intermediate portion of a length of each bristle of the first set of bristles. For example, each bristle may comprise a straight portion at the proximal end and / or distal end, along with the curved intermediate portion. In other examples, the intermediate portion may extend from the base to the tip of the first bristle, so that the first bristle is curved along its length. The longitudinal axis of the bristle bed may be a length axis of the bristle bed, and the transverse axis may be a width axis of the bristle bed. For example, the transverse and longitudinal axes may correspond to x and y axes e.g., forming an x-y plane, which is perpendicular to a z axis. The bristle bed may be greater in size along the longitudinal axis than along the transverse axis. For example, the bristle bed may be understood to be longer than it is wide or elongate. An edge of the bristle bed that is relatively more aligned with the longitudinal axis is thus, for example, an edge of the bristle bed with a length component, parallel to the longitudinal axis, which is larger than a width component, parallel to the transverse axis. The bristle bed may have a rectangular profile, an oval profile or an obround profile. In some examples, the bristle bed, or bristle bed profile, comprises at least one curved edge. The bristle bed may have a planar surface, such as a surface parallel to the x-y plane, or a nonplanar surface, such as a curved surface. The longitudinal axis of the bristle bed may be understood to be the axis along which the surface or surface profile has the largest dimension, and the transverse axis may be understood to be an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The bristle bed may be, or have a profile that is, shorter in the transverse axis than the longitudinal axis. Features that are substantially perpendicular to one another may include elements arranged at an angle within 30 degrees, 15 degrees, or 5 degrees of perpendicular. Features that are substantially parallel to one another may include elements arranged at an angle within 30 degrees, 15 degrees, or 5 degrees of parallel. The distal end of each bristle of the first set may be oriented substantially parallel to the transverse axis. In this way, tangling and / or snagging of the hair on the first set of bristles may be reduced and a greater range of styling effects may be enabled, such as lift. The distal ends of each bristle of the first set of bristles may extend away from a central longitudinal axis of the bristle bed in plan view, e.g., as projected into a plane of the bristle bed. In this way, the distal ends of the first bristles engage the hair more effectively. For example, in use, as the user brings the haircare device towards their hair to begin using the haircare device, the distal end of one or more of the first bristles may make the first contact with the hair and scalp of the user. This allows the distal ends to grab onto the hair more effectively to improve lift of the hair. The first set of bristles may be arranged in a row substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis. Each bristle of the second set of bristles may have a different shape than each bristle of the first set of bristles. The first set of bristles and the second set of bristles may provide a different functionality to each other, due to their different shapes. This allows a single haircare device to simultaneously provide multi-functional styling. In some examples, each bristle of the second set of bristles comprises: a stem having a proximal end connected to the bristle bed and a distal end opposite to the proximal end of the stem; and a head provided at the distal end of the stem, the head comprising an aperture extending through the head to allow inward deformation of the head. Due to the ability of the head to inwardly deform, a more comfortable user experience is provided, whilst also minimising damage to a user’s hair. In particular, the ability of the head of the bristle to deform inwardly facilitates the movement of strands of hair over the head of the bristle. In some examples, the aperture enables lateral deformation of the head to facilitate movement of strands of hair over the head of the bristle. In this way, hair snagging and hair damage is reduced and user comfort is improved. The aperture may be elongate. For example, the aperture may be obround (e.g. racetrack / stadium shaped). The aperture may otherwise be circular, triangular, rectangular, hexagonal, diamond-shaped, etc. The head may comprise a proximal end that is proximate to the stem, and an opposite distal end. The distal end may be a free end of the bristle. A width (taken in a direction that is normal to a direction of elongation of the stem) of the aperture at the distal end may be greater than the width of the aperture at the proximal end. The aperture may taper in a direction from the distal end to the proximal end of the head. Thus, the width of the aperture may (e.g. gradually) decrease in a direction from the distal end to the proximal end of the head. The head may comprise a loop extending about the aperture (e.g. fully extending about the aperture). Thus, the loop may at least partly (e.g. fully) define the aperture. The loop may have a shape that is complementary to the aperture. The loop may have a shape (i.e. may extend along a path) that is e.g. circular, triangular, rectangular, hexagonal, diamond-shaped, etc. The aperture may have an equivalent diameter of between 1.5 mm and 2.5 mm or e.g. between 2.0 mm and 3.0 mm. For the avoidance of doubt, equivalent diameter is the diameter of a nominal circle having the same cross-sectional area as the aperture. The head may have a wall extending about the aperture (e.g. the loop). The wall may have a thickness that is no greater than 1.2 mm, or e.g. 1.0 mm. The thickness may be no thinner than e.g. 0.4 mm, or e.g. 0.6 mm. The thickness may be about 0.8 mm. Such thicknesses may ensure the wall is able to deform in response to looped strands of hair. The head may have a width of between 2.5 mm and 3.5 mm, or e.g. between 2.7 mm and 3.2 mm, or e.g. about 2.9 mm. Such widths may increase the surface area that comes into contact with a user’s scalp so as to help to minimise discomfort in use. The head may have a height of e.g. between 3.5 mm and 6.0 mm, or e.g. between 4.0 mm and 5.5 mm. An end of the head distal from the stem (i.e. the distal end of the head) may have a radius of curvature of between 1.0 mm and 3.0 mm, or e.g. between 1.0 and 2.0 mm, or e.g. about 1.5 mm. Such curvature may minimise discomfort to a user when the bristle comes into contact with a user’s scalp. In some examples, the head provided at the distal end of the stem of each bristle of the second set of bristles comprises a cavity or hollow in place of the aperture. In this way, the inward deformation functionality is provided, as described above. In some examples, each bristle of the second set of bristles has a generally straight shape, (e.g. without an aperture in the head), to reduce manufacturing complexity. In some examples, the distal end of each of the first set of bristles is spaced apart from the bristle bed by a first spacing, and the distal end of each of the second set of bristles is spaced apart from the bristle bed by no more than the first spacing. The first spacing may be between 15 mm and 25 mm, e.g. 18 mm. This allows both the first set of bristles and the second set of bristles to penetrate into the hair, in use, to improve the effectiveness of the first and second sets of bristles. In this way, the haircare device is used to both lift and detangle the hair in a more effective manner. In particular, it may be understood that ensuring the second set of bristles (e.g. straight bristles) are the same length or shorter than the first set of bristles (e.g. curved bristles) ensures maximum penetration into the hair for the first set of bristles to enhance the root lifting effect of the first set of bristles. In some examples, the first set of bristles is arranged, in use, along a leading edge of the bristle bed. The bristles arranged along the leading edge are those that, in use, are the first to contact a user’s hair. This may improve the effectiveness of the haircare device by allowing the user to easily bring their hair into contact with the first set of bristles before other bristles of the device, thus helping to section the hair. The first set of bristles may be disposed along a leading edge of a bristle bed such that the first set of bristles are the closest bristles of the plurality of bristles to the leading edge. For example, the first set of bristles may be adjacent to, beside, or neighbouring the leading edge. The first set of bristles need not extend along an entirety of the leading edge to be considered to be disposed along the leading edge. For example, the first set of bristles may be arranged along a portion of the leading edge. It may be understood that the leading edge is the foremost portion or foremost edge of the haircare device or appliance as it passes through the hair of a user. For example, the leading edge may be parallel to a longitudinal axis of a handle attached, directly or indirectly, to the bristle bed. The first set of bristles may form more than 60% of bristles arranged along the leading edge of the bristle bed. Such a density of the first set of bristles may be sufficient to achieve a particular styling effect with the haircare device, such as lift. In other cases, though, the first set of bristles may form more than 50%, 70%, 80% or 90% of the bristles arranged along the leading edge of the bristle bed. All or substantially all of the bristles along the leading edge of the bristle bed may be the first set of bristles. The proportion of bristles along the leading edge can be selected depending on a desired styling effect to be achieved with the haircare device. In some examples, the plurality of bristles comprises a third set of bristles arranged substantially along the longitudinal axis. The intermediate portion of each bristle of the third set of bristles may be curved, such that the distal end of each bristle of the third set is substantially aligned with the transverse axis of the bristle bed. Other than the positioning and, in some cases, direction of curvature, the third set of bristles may have all or some of the same characteristics as the first set of bristles (e.g., the same cross-sectional shape and / or size, the same flexural modulus etc.). The third set of bristles may be arranged, in use, along a trailing edge of the bristle bed. A trailing edge is an edge having bristles that, in use, contact the hair after the other bristles on the bristle bed. The trailing edge of the bristle bed is distinct from the leading edge of the bristle bed. The leading edge and the trailing edge may be on opposite sides of the bristle bed. This arrangement facilitates bidirectional use of the haircare device. One or more distal ends of the first or third set of bristles may extend substantially away from one or more distal ends of the respective other of the third and first set of bristles. For example, the one or more distal ends of the first or third set of bristles may extend directly away from one or more distal ends of the respective other of the third and first set of bristles. In this context, extend away may refer to extending away in one or more geometric planes. In some examples, the first set of bristles are symmetrical with the third set of bristles about a plane oriented along the longitudinal axis of the bristle bed. This facilitates multidirectional use of the haircare device to improve styling performance. In examples with a third set of bristles, each bristle of the second set of bristles may protrude from the bristle bed between the first set of bristles and the third set of bristles. For example, the first set of bristles may be located outwards of the second set of bristles to lift the hair as the haircare device is passed through the hair. In some examples, the second set of bristles may be straight, i.e. non-curved, bristles. In some examples, there may be an absence of bristles with a curved intermediate portion between the first and third sets of bristles. This may allow the user to draw the haircare device through their hair more easily, particularly if the hair is thick and / or curly. The plurality of bristles may comprise a plurality of curved bristles with curved portions and with distal ends pointing in a plurality of different directions. In these cases, the distal ends of the curved bristles may each point away from the central longitudinal axis in a plane parallel to a plane of the surface. Such arrangements may allow improved lift to be achieved with the haircare device used in a plurality of different directions and / or orientations. The haircare device may thus be more versatile and straightforward to use than a haircare device intended to be used in a single direction or orientation. Curved bristles, e.g. including the first set of bristles (and in some cases the third set of bristles), may be arranged around a circumference of the bristle bed. This can provide increased versatility by allowing the haircare device to be used substantially omnidirectionally to provide a particular styling effect. In some examples, the bristle may be disposed on the bristle bed such that the first radial direction is substantially aligned with the transverse axis of the bristle bed. In some examples, a cross-section of the proximal end of at least one of the first set of bristles has a first size in the first radial direction and a second size, smaller than the first size, in the second radial direction. The radial cross-section of the at least one of the first set of bristles may be larger in one dimension than another. In this way, greater flexural stiffness may be provided in one direction than another, which improves robustness without increasing snagging. For example, the cross-section of the proximal end of the at least one first set of bristles may have an oval shape or an obround shape. In some of these examples, the first radial direction may be substantially aligned with the transverse axis. The first radial direction may be substantially parallel with the transverse axis of the bristle bed, and / or substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the bristle bed. The second radial direction may be substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis, and / or substantially perpendicular to the transverse axis. In some examples, the haircare device may be moved along a tress of hair, such that the first radial direction is substantially aligned with the transverse axis of the bristle bed, such that the longer dimension of the cross section of the proximal end of the at least one of the first set of bristles is aligned with the direction of movement. In some of these examples, the haircare device comprises an airflow generator configured to generate airflow away from the bristle bed. For example, the bristle bed may include one or more air outlets. Each air outlet may be configured to direct airflow that passes therethrough substantially away from the bristle bed. More specifically, the air outlet may be configured to provide an airflow path from the air outlet that intersects one or more bristles comprising a curved portion. In this way, the airflow is arranged to dry the tress of hair captured and raised by the one or more bristles comprising a curved portion to provide the appearance of increased hair volume. The one or more bristles comprising a curved portion may belong to one of the first and third sets of bristles. The air outlet may be configured to direct airflow that passes therethrough substantially along and away from the bristle bed. In this way, styling performance may be improved. In some of these examples, the haircare device comprises an airflow generator configured to generate airflow over the bristle bed in an airflow direction substantially parallel to the first radial direction. The airflow may smooth the hair during styling, which may improve the durability of the style achieved using the haircare device. With the airflow direction substantially parallel to the first radial direction, the at least one bristle of the first set of bristles may have an aerodynamic profile with respect to the airflow, with a smaller width (but greater length) in the direction along which the air flows. The bristle bed may be movable with respect to a frame of the haircare device to guide the airflow in an airflow direction substantially parallel to the first radial direction. For example, the bristle bed may be movable with respect to the frame of the haircare device to guide the airflow over a surface of the bristle bed. The bristle bed may be pivotable. The bristle bed may be configured to move between a first position and a second position. In the first position airflow is directed in a substantially clockwise direction, and in the second position airflow is directed in a substantially anticlockwise direction. The bristle bed may be moved into the first position and / or the second position when the haircare device is drawn through a user’s hair. For example, the bristle bed may be moved into the first position and / or the second position when the distal ends of the third set of bristles and / or the distal ends of the first set of bristles engages with the hair. The bristle bed and the frame may define a first air outlet and a second air outlet spaced apart from the first air outlet. In some examples, in the first position the first air outlet is closed and the second air outlet is open, and in the second position the first air outlet is open and the second air outlet is closed. In other examples, the first and second air outlets are shaped to guide airflow in the first direction when the bristle bed is in the first position and to guide airflow in the second direction when the bristle bed is in the second position. In some examples, the haircare device may comprise a frame having an air inlet, wherein: the bristle bed comprises first and second movable members; a first air outlet in fluid communication with the air inlet is defined by the first movable member and the frame; a second air outlet in fluid communication with the air inlet is defined by the second movable member and the frame; and the first and second movable members are movable with respect to the frame between a first position in which, in use, airflow is directed from the first and second air outlets in a first direction, and a second position in which, in use, airflow is directed from the first and second air outlets in a second direction, different from the first direction. A third air outlet in fluid communication with the air inlet may be defined by the first movable member and the second movable member. The third air outlet may be defined between the first movable member and the second movable member. When the first and second movable members are in the first position, airflow may be directed from the third air outlet in the first direction. When the first and second movable members are in the second position, airflow may be directed from the third air outlet in the second direction. In some examples, the plurality of bristles may protrude from at least one of the first and second movable members. The bristle bed may comprise a third movable member located between the first and second movable members. A first intermediate air outlet in fluid communication with the air inlet may be defined by the first movable member and the third movable member. A second intermediate air outlet in fluid communication with the air inlet may be defined by the second movable member and the third movable member. The third movable member may be movable with respect to the frame between a first position in which, in use, airflow is directed from the first intermediate air outlet and the second intermediate air outlet in the first direction, and a second position in which, in use, airflow is directed from the first intermediate air outlet and second intermediate air outlet in the second direction, different from the first direction. The plurality of bristles may protrude from at least one of the first, second, and third movable members. In some of these examples, the haircare device comprises an airflow generator configured to generate, in use, an airflow through one or more apertures in the bristle bed in a direction substantially parallel to a longitudinal direction of the proximal end of one or more of first set of bristles. For example, each bristle of the first set of bristles may extend through an aperture. Airflow may be directed through the aperture and along a length of the bristle to allow the user to dry and style their hair more effectively. The distal end of each of the first set of bristles may be arranged such that, in use, the intermediate portion (curved portion) contacts a scalp of a user. For example, the distal end of the first set of bristles may be arranged to contact the scalp with the distal end substantially parallel to the surface of the user, in use. These arrangements may increase the area of contact between the first set of bristles and the scalp, e.g. when compared to a straight bristle with a pointed end. A larger area of contact between the first set of bristles and the scalp may increase user comfort by reducing scraping of the scalp by the first set of bristles. In some examples, a tip of the distal end of the first set of bristles (e.g. rather than the intermediate portion) may contact a scalp as the first set of bristles are brought into contact with the scalp, which may allow the first set of bristles to scoop the hair more effectively to improve lift. The distal end of each of the first set of bristles may be substantially perpendicular to the respective proximal end of each of the first set of bristles. By way of example, the user may instinctively draw the haircare device over their scalp with the proximal end angled substantially perpendicular to the scalp. In such cases, the distal end will be angled substantially parallel to the scalp to achieve a larger area of contact between the first bristles and the scalp than would be obtained with a straight bristle with a pointed end. This enhances user comfort by reducing scratching of the scalp by the first set of bristles. The intermediate portion of each of the first set of bristles may have a radius of curvature of at least 2.5mm, such as at least 5mm. The intermediate portion may have a radius of curvature of no more than 25 mm, such as no more than 20mm. The distal end of each of the first and / or third set of bristles may be substantially parallel to the bristle bed, where the term “substantially parallel” may be as described above. Angling the distal end of the first set of bristles (and / or the third set of bristles) substantially parallel to the bristle bed may aid in achieving a larger area of contact between the respective bristles and the scalp in an intuitive manner. For example, the user may naturally angle the bristle bed substantially parallel to their scalp while using the haircare device. Angling the bristle bed in this way angles the distal end of the first set of bristles (and / or the third set of bristles) substantially parallel to the user’s scalp so as to achieve a larger area of contact between the scalp and the respective bristles than otherwise, which may increase user comfort e.g. by reducing scratching. The proximal end of each of the first set of bristles may be substantially perpendicular to the bristle bed. This may aid in improving user comfort. For example, as explained above, the user may intuitively angle the bristle bed substantially parallel to their scalp, so that the proximal end is substantially perpendicular to their scalp, in use, to detangle the hair. As the first set of bristles comprise a curved intermediate portion, the area in contact with the scalp may be at a non-perpendicular angle to the scalp. For example, the area of each of the first set of bristles in contact with the scalp may be substantially parallel to the scalp, in use. This may increase the area of contact between the first set of bristles and the scalp, so as to increase user comfort, for example by reducing scratching. A distance between proximal ends of a bristle of the plurality of bristles and an adjacent bristle may be between 3 mm and 5 mm. The bristle bed may be convex. In other words, a surface of the bristle bed, such as an outer surface from which bristles project, may be convex This may allow the haircare device to be both drawn along a length of the hair and for the hair to be wrapped around the haircare attachment, e.g. for curling of the hair, or to be used at various different angles by the user, as desired. The haircare device may therefore be more versatile than otherwise. The bristle bed and the plurality of bristles may be formed integrally. Points of fixture between the plurality of bristles and the bristle bed, which may be susceptible to breakage, may thus be omitted. The haircare device may therefore be more robust than otherwise. In addition, manufacture of such a haircare device may be less complex and / or more efficient than other approaches in which each of the components is manufactured separately and then attached together. The plurality of bristles may comprise e.g. nylon, polyamide, polypropylene, and / or a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), e.g. Hytrel. In examples, the haircare device is at least one of: a hairbrush (or a portion of a hairbrush, such as a head part which is attachable to a handle part) or an attachment for mounting to a haircare appliance. For example, the haircare device may have a handle that extends away from the bristle bed in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the bristle bed. The haircare device may be used as the head of a manual hairbrush. In some examples, the haircare device may be a hairbrush that can be used by hand and / or attached to a haircare appliance, or the haircare device may be an attachment for a haircare appliance, such as an electronic haircare appliance for styling hair, e.g. using an airflow. According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a haircare appliance comprising the haircare device of any examples of the first aspect. The haircare appliance may be an electronic haircare appliance and may allow particular styles or styling effects to be achieved more rapidly and / or more easily than may be obtained using a manual haircare device. According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a bristle for a haircare device, wherein the bristle comprises: a distal end; a proximal end for disposing on a bed of the haircare device, the proximal end opposite to the distal end, and an intermediate portion between the distal end and the proximal end, wherein the intermediate portion is curved; the proximal end of the bristle comprises a first radial direction and a second radial direction, perpendicular to the first radial direction; and a flexural modulus along the first radial direction is greater than a flexural modulus along the second radial direction. An increased flexural modulus in one dimension compared to the other may improve the robustness of the bristle while allowing the bristle to flex sufficiently in the less flexurally stiff dimension to reduce hair snagging on the bristle. In some examples, a cross-section of the proximal end of the bristle has an oval shape or an obround shape. For example, the cross-section may be larger in one dimension than another. Such shapes may be relatively straightforward and efficient to manufacture. The distal end and / or the intermediate portion of each bristle of the first set of bristles may have a smaller cross-section than the proximal portion. For example, each bristle may taper from the proximal end toward the distal end. This may increase flexibility and compliance at the bristle tip and reduce the need for the bristle bed to be compliant, reducing manufacturing cost and complexity. Examples above refer to a hair of a user with the hair extending from the scalp. However, it is to be appreciated that the haircare device and the bristles described herein may be used to style the hair of a human or an animal with hair located on the body, on or away from the scalp. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a bristle according to examples; Figure 2 is a first schematic perspective view of a haircare device, including a plurality of the bristle of Figure 1, according to examples; Figure 3 A is a second schematic perspective view of the haircare device of Figure 2; Figure 3B is a schematic diagram of a bristle according to examples; Figure 4 is a schematic side view of a bristle arrangement according to examples; Figure 5 A is a schematic perspective view of the bristle arrangement of Figure 4; Figures 5B and 5C are schematic cross-sectional views of the haircare device of Figure 2; Figure 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a haircare appliance according to examples; Figure 7 is a schematic side view of the haircare appliance of Figure 6; Figure 8 is a schematic plan view of the haircare appliance of Figure 6; Figure 9 is a schematic perspective view of the haircare appliance of Figure 6; and Figure 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a proximal end of a bristle according to examples. DETAILED DESCRIPTION Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a bristle 101. A proximal end 105 of the bristle 101 is disposed on a surface 104 of a bed 106 of a haircare device (not shown in Figure 1). The proximal end 105 of the bristle 101 is the end of the bristle 101 closest to the surface 104. The bristle 101 has a straight portion 108 and an intermediate portion 110. The straight portion 108 extends from the surface 104 to the intermediate portion 110, and is arranged perpendicularly to the surface 104. The intermediate portion 110 extends from the straight portion 108 to a distal end 112 of the bristle 101, which is the opposite end of the bristle 101 to the proximal end 105, and is the furthest end of the bristle 101 from the surface 104. A cross-sectional area of the bristle 101 decreases towards the distal end 112, with the bristle tapering to a rounded tip at the distal end 112. The intermediate portion 110 is curved and shapes the bristle 101 so that the distal end 112 of the bristle is generally perpendicular to the proximal end 105 in side view (e.g. in a plane orthogonal to a plane of the surface 104). Due to the curved intermediate portion 110, the bristle 101 has a hooked profile in side view. A distal end portion 114 of the bristle 101 including the distal end 112 and a portion of the intermediate portion 110 extends generally parallel to a plane of the surface 104. The distal end portion 114 is generally perpendicular to the proximal end 105 of the bristle 101 in side view. The distal end portion 114 thus provides a greater contact area for contacting the scalp of a user of the haircare device than, for example, a tip of a straight bristle. For example, the intermediate portion 110 (or a portion thereof, such as a portion comprised by the distal end portion 114) may contact the scalp in use. The elongate nature of a surface of the distal end portion 114 configured to contact the scalp increases comfort for the user, and also provides a greater region for interacting with the hair, in use. As explained above, this allows the bristle 101 to provide better tensioning of the hair, in use. The bristle 101 is formed of a thermoplastic elastomer, which provides sufficient flexibility to provide effective hair styling. However, a bristle otherwise the same as the bristle 101 of Figure 1 may be formed of or comprise different materials in other examples, such as nylon. Figures 2 and 3 A are schematic perspective views of a haircare device 150. The haircare device 150 includes a plurality of bristles 152 including a plurality of the bristle 101 of Figure 1 (one of which is labelled in Figures 2 and 3), which in the context of Figures 2 and 3 are referred to as first bristles 101. The haircare device 150 is an attachment (in this case, a brush attachment) for mounting to a haircare appliance, which may be an electronic haircare appliance. The plurality of bristles 152 are disposed on a surface of a bristle bed 154 supported by a frame 158 of the haircare device 150 so that the surface 104 is exposed through the frame 158. The bristles 152 and the bristle bed 154 are formed integrally, e.g. formed as a single component. For example, the bristles 152 and the bristle bed 154 may be formed using injection moulding. The bristle bed 154 has a longitudinal axis 160 and a transverse axis 162 and is elongate along the longitudinal axis 160. In a flat plane including the longitudinal axis 160 and the transverse axis 162 (i.e. in plan view), the bristle bed 154 is rectangular in shape, with a length dimension of the bristle bed 154 corresponding to the longitudinal axis 160 and a width dimension of the bristle bed 154 corresponding to the transverse axis 162. In perspective view, however, the bristle bed 154 is curved, and has a convex shape, with the plurality of bristles 152 arranged to extend outwardly from the bristle bed 154 so that the inter-bristle spacing generally increases outwardly from the bristle bed 154. In other words, the bristle bed 154 has the form of a portion of a hemisphere, with the surface corresponding to an outer surface of the portion of the hemisphere. The plurality of bristles 152 includes a first set of bristles 164 and a third set of bristles 168. The first set of bristles 164 includes first bristles 101. The third set of bristles includes third bristles 103. The third bristles 103 each include a curved portion and are the same as the first bristles 101 except for the direction in which the third bristles 103 curve (discussed further below). The first and third sets of bristles 164,168 are arranged along opposite edges of the bristle bed 154 and are aligned with the longitudinal axis 160 of the bristle bed 154. The first and third sets of bristles 164, 168 therefore extend along the longitudinal axis 160, along opposite edges of the bristle bed 154, which are longer than the edges of the bristle bed 154 that are aligned with the transverse axis 162. When a user moves the device through their hair, the first set of bristles 164 is arranged along a leading edge 170 of the bristle bed 154 and the third set of bristles 168 is arranged along a trailing edge 180 of the bristle bed 154. A leading edge is an edge having bristles that, in use, are the first to contact the user’s hair. A trailing edge is an edge having bristles that, in use, contact the hair last, i.e. the last bristles on the device that have contact with the user’s hair. In Figures 2 and 3, the bristle bed 154 is rectangular in shape, with the leading edge 170 and the trailing edge 180 corresponding to outer (opposite) linear edges aligned with the longitudinal axis 160. In an example where the bristle bed 154 is oval in shape, the leading edge 170 and the trailing edge 180 are formed along a portion (i.e. an arc length) of the oval shape. The first and third bristles 101, 103 are located on opposite sides of a central longitudinal axis 151 of the haircare device 150 to each other. The curved portions of the first and third bristles 101, 103 curve the respective distal portions of the first and third bristles 101, 103 away from each other, and away from the central longitudinal axis 151 in plan view (and e.g. in a plane parallel to a plane of the bristle bed 154). The distal ends of the first bristles 101 and the third bristles 103 therefore extend away from each other, due to the curvature of the intermediate portions of the first and third bristles 101,103. Specifically, the distal ends of the first and third bristles 101,103 face away from each other, in opposite directions. In other words, a distance between corresponding first and third bristles 101,103, parallel to the transverse axis 162 of the bristle bed 154, generally increases away from the bristle bed 154, so that the largest distance between corresponding first and third bristles 101, 103 (located at the same position longitudinally as each other, but in a different transverse location) is between the distal ends of the first and third bristles 101, 103. The distal ends of the first and third bristles 101, 103 are each aligned with the transverse axis 162 of the bristle bed 154, but face in opposite directions to each other in plan view. The first set of bristles 164 includes solely first bristles 101, which each include a curved portion. Each of the first bristles 101 are substantially the same as each other, such as the same or the same within manufacturing tolerances or measurement uncertainties. In other examples, though, the first set of bristles 164, e.g. in the form of a first row, may include other bristles than the first bristles 101, e.g. so that a lower proportion than 100% of the first row are first bristles 101. For example, no more than 50%, 60%, 70%, 80% or 90% of the bristles along the first row are first bristles 101. Other bristles may be of a different shape and / or size than the first bristles 101. Similarly, in some examples, the third set of bristles 168 includes solely third bristles 103, which are substantially the same as each other. In some examples, the third set of bristles 168, e.g. in the form of a third row, may include other bristles than the third bristles 103 such as bristles of a different shape and / or size than the third bristles 103. In such cases, a lower proportion than 100% (for example, no more than 50%, 60%, 70%, 80% or 90%) of the third set of bristles may be third bristles 103. A second set of bristles 166 is disposed between the first and third sets of bristles 164,168. In Figures 2 and 3A, there are four rows of bristles between the outermost rows (the first and third sets of bristles 164, 168). The bristles between the first and third sets of bristles 164, 168 are referred to as second bristles 102. In this example, each of the second bristles 102 is generally straight in shape, but with an aperture in a head provided at a distal end of the respective second bristle 102 to allow inward deformation of the head. In some examples, second bristles 102 may have a different shape, such as a straight shape, and / or some second bristles 102 may have a different shape than other second bristles 102. In this example, there is an absence of curved bristles between the outermost bristles disposed along the longitudinal edges of the bristle bed 154 (i.e. between the first and third sets of bristles 164, 168). In other words, non-curved bristles, in this case the second bristles 102, are disposed between the first and third bristles 101,103 at opposite longitudinal edges of the bristle bed 154 (within the first and third sets of bristles 164, 168 respectively). The second bristles 102 therefore separate the first and third bristles 101,103 disposed along opposite longitudinal edges of the bristle bed 154, as the first set of bristles 164 is separated from the third set of bristles 168 by the second set of bristles 166. The distal end of each of the first bristles 101 is spaced apart from the bristle bed 154 by a first spacing. The distal end of each of the second bristles 102 is spaced apart from the bristle bed by no more than the first spacing. This means that the region of the second bristles 102 and the first bristles 101 furthest from the surface 104 (i.e. the region including the distal ends) are at the same distance from the bristle bed 154, in the height direction. The second bristles 102 and the third bristles 103 also have the same height as each other in the height direction. The height of the plurality of bristles 152 of the haircare device 150 is therefore generally uniform perpendicular to the surface of the bristle bed 154. The proximal end of each bristle of the first set of bristles 164 (i.e. each first bristle 101) has a first radial direction 480 and a second radial direction 482, perpendicular to the first radial direction. The proximal end of each bristle of the first set of bristles 164 has flexural modulus along the first radial direction 480 that is greater than the flexural modulus along the second radial direction 482. This is due to the cross-sectional shape of the first bristle 101 in this example (although such a flexural modulus may be achieved in other ways, e.g. by material properties of the material of the first and / or second bristle, in other examples). The proximal end of each bristle of the third set of bristles 168 (i.e. each third bristle 103) has a first and second radial direction similar to that of the first set of bristles 164. In Figures 1 to 3 A, a cross-section of the proximal end 105 of the first and third bristles 101,102 is greater in the first radial direction 480 (in this case, parallel to the transverse axis 162) than in a second radial direction 482 (in this case, parallel to the longitudinal axis 160). In this example, a first size of the cross-section of the proximal end 105 in the first radial direction 480 is approximately a third of a second size of the cross-section of the proximal end 105 in the second radial direction 482. However, in other examples, a ratio between the first and second sizes may differ, and may be for example from 1:2 to 1:5. The elongate cross-sectional shape of the first and third bristles 101, 103 in the transverse (first) direction contributes to the flexural modulus, and hence the flexural stiffness, of the first and third bristles 101,103 in this direction. The proximal ends 105 of the first and third bristles 101,103 each have a generally oval shape in cross-section (i.e. in plan view). In other examples, though, the proximal end of a first and / or third bristle 101, 103 may have a different shape, such as a different elongate shape, in plan view, e.g. obround (which is for example race-track shape). This is discussed in more detail in relation to Figure 10, below. Figure 3B shows an example of a second bristle 102. The head 118 comprises an aperture 119 that extends through (i.e. fully through) the head 118 in the thickness T direction (from one major surface 125 to the other of the major surfaces 125). The aperture 119 is such that it allows inward deformation of the head 118. The aperture 119 is mostly defined by a loop 121 that extends around the aperture 119. Opposite ends of the loop 121 are connected to the distal end 117 of the stem 115 such that the aperture 119 is fully surrounded by the head 118. The aperture 119 is elongate in a direction along a longitudinal axis of the stem 115. The aperture 119 tapers in a direction from the distal end 123 of the head 118 to the proximal end 124 of the head 118. Thus, the aperture 119 is wider towards the distal end 123 than towards the proximal end 124. In general, the shape of the aperture 119 is substantially complementary to the shape of the head 118 (i.e. to a shape of an outer periphery of the head 118). Figures 4 and 5 A show a plurality of bristles 252 of further examples. The plurality of bristles 252 includes a first bristle 201, which is similar to the first bristle 101 of Figures 1 to 3 A, and a second bristle 202, which is similar to the second bristles 102 of the second set of bristles 166 shown in Figures 2 to 3B. The first bristle 201 and the second bristle 202 are each disposed on a bristle base 254 for inclusion in a haircare device (not shown). The first bristles 201 are arranged in a first row 264 along an edge of the bristle base 254 that is aligned with a longitudinal axis 260 of the bristle base 254. The second bristles 202 are arranged in a second row 266 along a second edge of the bristle base 254 that is also aligned with the longitudinal axis 260. The bristle base 254 of Figures 4 and 5 A is curved, like the bristle bed 154 of Figures 2 and 3A, and the plurality of bristles 252 is formed integrally with the bristle base 254. In some examples, a haircare device may include a plurality of bristles 252 of Figures 4 and 5A, which may be oriented in different directions to each other. For example, such a haircare device may include a first and a second one of the plurality of bristles 252, each having first bristles 201 with distal ends extending in opposite directions away from a central longitudinal axis of the haircare device. In these cases, the distal ends of each of the plurality of bristles may be substantially parallel to the transverse axis of the respective arrangement (and e.g. substantially parallel to a transverse axis of the haircare device, perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis). In some examples, the haircare device 150 may comprise a bristle bed 154 having a plurality of movable members, where each movable member comprises a bristle base 254 and a plurality of bristles 252 as shown in Figures 4 and 5 A. Figures 5B and 5C show cross-sectional views of a haircare device 150 with a bristle bed 154 having a first movable member 120, a second movable member 130, and a third movable member 140. (These are collectively referred to herein as movable members 120,130,140 for brevity.) The third movable member 140 is located between the first and second movable members 120, 130. The movable members 120,130,140 are movable between a first position, shown in Figure 5B, and a second position, shown in Figure 5C, which are discussed in further detail below. A first air outlet 122 is defined by the first movable member 120 and the frame 158. A second air outlet 132 is defined by the second movable member 130 and the frame 158. A first intermediate air outlet 142 is defined by the first movable member 120 and the third movable member 140. A second intermediate air outlet 144 is defined by the second movable member 130 and the third movable member 140. The first air outlet 122, the second air outlet 132, the first intermediate air outlet 142, and the second intermediate air outlet 144 are in fluid communication with an air inlet 24 of the device. The movable members 120, 130, 140 are movable with respect to the frame 158 between a first position in which, in use, airflow is directed from the air outlets in a first direction Fl (e.g. a clockwise direction), and a second position in which, in use, airflow is directed from outlets in a second direction F2 (e.g. an anti-clockwise direction), different from the first direction Fl. The plurality of bristles 152 may be disposed on the movable members 120, 130, 140. Figures 5B and 5C shows first bristles 101 and second bristles 102 disposed on the first movable member 120, second bristles 102 and third bristles 103 disposed on the second movable member 130, and second bristles 102 disposed on the third movable member 140. The movable members 120,130,140 may incorporate other arrays of bristles. A haircare appliance, generally designated 10, according to further examples is shown schematically in Figures 6 to 9. The haircare appliance 10 is an electronic haircare appliance, and is useable to provide styling effects using a flow of air. The haircare appliance 10 comprises a main body 12, on which an attachment 350 is mounted. The attachment 350 is an example of a haircare device according to examples herein. The attachment 350 is removable from the haircare appliance 10 and can be replaced with an attachment configured to provide a different functionality, such as a different attachment. For example, the attachment 350 shown in Figures 6 to 9 may be replaced with a hair straightening attachment to straighten hair. The main body 12 is generally tubular and hollow in form, and houses an airflow generator 18, a power source 20, and a controller 22. The main body 12 has an air inlet 24, which comprises a plurality of apertures, and the airflow generator 18 comprises a motor driven impeller to draw airflow into the main body 12 via the air inlet 24. The power source 20 is a battery that is configured to supply DC electrical power to the airflow generator 18. Although shown here as comprising a power source 20, it will be appreciated that in alternative examples the haircare appliance may comprise an electrical connection for connecting to an AC mains power supply, with appropriate circuitry for converting the AC power to DC power for the airflow generator 18, for example. The controller 22 is configured to control the airflow generator 18 to generate an airflow over a surface of a bed of the attachment 350. The main body 12 has a user interface 30 (shown schematically in Figures 8 and 9), which, for example, may take the form of buttons or a touch-sensitive display, via which a user can control the airflow generated by the airflow generator 18. In this example, the attachment 350 includes a first and second portion 350a, 350b. The first portion 350a of the attachment 350 will now be described, with particular reference to Figure 6. However, it is to be appreciated that the second portion 350b of the attachment 350 includes the same components as the first portion 350a (labelled with the same reference numerals but appended with a “b” rather than an “a”) arranged to mirror corresponding components of the first portion 350a along a central longitudinal axis 378 of the haircare appliance 10; corresponding descriptions are to be taken to apply. The central longitudinal axis 378 of the haircare appliance 10 is coincident with a central longitudinal axis of the attachment 350, and parallel to longitudinal axes 360a, 360b of bristle beds 354a, 354b of the first and second portions 350a, 350b, respectively. The first portion 350a includes a plurality of bristles, generally designated 352a, which is similar to the plurality of bristles 152 of Figures 2 and 3A. Hence, in the example of Figures 6 to 9, the first and second portions 350a, 350b each include a respective plurality of bristles 352a, 352b. Each plurality of bristles may be distinct from each other plurality of bristles, for example where they are supported or housed by different components (such as different respective frames) and / or where they are spatially separated from each other, such as if they are separated by a distance that is larger than an average inter-bristle spacing of one of the plurality of bristles, e.g. by a distance that is at least two, three times or four times larger than the average inter-bristle spacing. In examples in which an airflow is generated (such as that of Figures 6 to 9), the airflow may flow in different directions within different arrangements of bristles. The plurality of bristles 352a includes first and third sets of bristles, which in this case are first and third rows of first and third bristles 301, 303 respectively, which are the same as the first and third bristles 101, 103 of Figures 1 to 3 A. The first and third sets of bristles are disposed along opposite edges of the bristle bed 354a of the first portion 350a, which edge is disposed parallel to the longitudinal axis 360a of the bristle bed 354a. Thus, the first and third bristles 301, 303 are disposed in opposite outermost rows aligned parallel to the longitudinal axis 360a of the bristle bed 354a, and parallel to the central longitudinal axis 378 of the attachment 350 itself. Three rows of second bristles 302 are disposed between the first and third bristles 301, 302 in this case between the first and third rows. The rows of second bristles 302 are also disposed parallel to the longitudinal axis 360a of the bristle bed 354a. The second bristles 302 have a different shape to the first and third bristles 301, 302 and are non-curved bristles, which lack a curved portion. However, unlike the rows of second bristles in Figures 2 and 3, the second bristles 302 of Figures 6 to 9 are straight in shape and lack an aperture in a head portion thereof. As in the example of Figures 2 and 3A, the first and third bristles 301,303 each have a curved portion shaped to align distal ends thereof with a transverse axis of the bristle bed 354a, where the transverse axis of the bristle bed 354a is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 360a and lies in a plane of the bristle bed 354a. Due to the curved portions, the distal ends of the first and third bristles 301, 303 of the first and third sets of bristles extend away from each other in opposite directions in plan view (i.e. in the plane of the bristle bed 354a). The second bristles 302 are straight bristles, without a curved portion. In Figures 2 and 3 A, the surface of the bristle bed 154 is symmetrically curved about a central longitudinal axis 151 of the haircare device 150 (which coincides with a central longitudinal axis of the bristle bed 154 itself). In contrast, the central longitudinal axis 378 of the attachment 350 of Figures 6 to 9 is offset from the central longitudinal axis of the bristle bed 354a of the first portion 350a. Instead, the first and second portions 350a, 350b are disposed symmetrically about the central longitudinal axis 378 of the attachment 350, and each extend along the central longitudinal axis 378 of the attachment 350. The general shape of a lower surface of the attachment 350 including the bristle beds 354a, 354b of the first and second portions 350a, 350b is therefore approximately semi-oval in cross-section. However, this lower surface includes an air outlet 374, which is a longitudinal air outlet extending along the length of the attachment 350 and separating the first portion 350a from the second portion 350b at the base of the attachment 350. In other examples, an air outlet may extend along less than the entire length of a device otherwise similar to or the same as the attachment 350 of Figures 6 to 9, such as along at least 50% or at least 75% of an attachment. In use, the air outlet 374 receives airflow from the airflow generator 18 via the main body 12. In this example, a first size of a cross-section of a proximal end of the first bristles 301 of the first portion 350a in a first radial direction 480 parallel to the transverse axis 162 is larger than a second size of the cross-section of the proximal end of the first bristles 301 of the first portion 350a in a second radial direction 482 perpendicular to the transverse axis 162. Users of the hair appliance 10 will generally orient the longitudinal axis 360a of the bristle bed 354a perpendicular to the length of a tress of hair and, in use, move the hair appliance 10 along the tress of hair, so that the crosssection of the proximal end of the first bristles 301 is larger in a direction parallel to the length of hair. This can increase the flexural modulus of the first bristles 301 in this direction, which can improve the robustness of the first bristles 301. In addition, the cross-section of the proximal end of the first bristles 301 being smaller perpendicular to the direction parallel to the length of hair, in use, can provide for sufficient flexibility to reduce snagging and tangling of the hair, in use. Figure 10 shows schematically a cross-section of a proximal end 405 of a bristle 401 disposed on a bristle bed 454 of a hair device. The bristle 401 is similar to the bristles 101, 103, 201, 301, 303 of Figures 1 to 9 and includes a curved intermediate portion; corresponding descriptions are to be taken to apply. Furthermore, the bristle 401 of Figure 10 may be used as any of the bristles 101,103, 201, 301, 303 with a curved portion of the examples herein. The bristle 401 also includes a distal end (not shown in Figure 10) opposite to the proximal end 405. The proximal end 405 is disposed on the bristle bed 454, a portion of which is shown in Figure 10 (indicated by dotted lines). In some examples, the proximal end 405 is integrally formed with the bristle bed 454. The bristle bed 454 has a longitudinal axis 460 and a transverse axis 462. It is to be noted that, although the portion of the bristle bed 454 shown in Figure 10 appears to be greater in size along the transverse axis 462 than the longitudinal axis 460, this is due to the Figure showing a portion of the bristle bed 454 rather than entirety of the bristle bed 454. In its entirety, the bristle bed 454 is larger along the longitudinal axis 460 than along the transverse axis 462. For example, the hair device may include a row of bristles similar to the bristle 401 along the longitudinal axis 460, similar to the row of bristles 201 shown in Figure 5 A. A cross-section of the proximal end 405 has a first size in a first radial direction 480, which in this case is parallel to the transverse axis 462. The cross-section of the proximal end 405 has a second size (smaller than the first size) in a second radial direction 482 perpendicular to the first radial direction 480. The first radial direction 480 is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 460 in Figure 10. The second radial direction 482 is parallel to the longitudinal axis 460 in Figure 10. The first and second radial directions 480, 482 are respectively aligned with the largest and smallest dimensions of the cross-section of the proximal end 405 in this example. The first and second radial directions 480,482 are arranged along the greatest length and the smallest width of the cross-section of the proximal end 405, respectively, in Figure 10. The cross-sectional shape of the proximal end 405 is an oval in Figure 10, although other shapes are possible in other examples, such as other elongate shapes with a greater size in the first radial direction 480 than the second radial direction 482. The hair device including the bristle 401 of Figure 10 includes an airflow generator (not shown in Figure 10) to generate an airflow 476 along the bristle bed 454, in use, which may be similar to or the same as the airflow generator 18 in the example of Figures 6 to 9. The airflow 476 is parallel to the transverse axis 462 and is thus parallel to the first radial direction 480 in which the proximal end 405 is elongate. As explained above with reference to Figures 6 to 9, the larger size of the bristle 401 in the first radial direction 480 means that the bristle 401 has a larger flexural modulus in the first radial direction 480 than the second radial direction 482, to improve the robustness of the bristle 401 along the same direction in which the airflow 476 flows, in use. Conversely, the smaller size of the bristle 401 in the second radial direction 482 can increase flexibility of the bristle 401 in this direction, to reduce snagging of the hair, in use. The above examples are to be understood as illustrative examples. Further examples are envisaged. For example, the bristle bed need not be rectangular and may instead be other elongate shapes in plan view, which may be symmetrical or asymmetrical, such as an oblong or obround shape. Further bristles between first and third bristles and / or between first and third sets of bristles need not be arranged in rows, and may instead be arranged in various other arrangements, with regular or irregular inter-bristle spacings. Similarly, bristles of the first and / or third sets of bristles need not be arranged in a row or may be arranged in a non-straight row, such as a curved row. The bristle arrangement, or at least a portion thereof, and the bristle bed need not be formed integrally. Instead, at least a portion of the bristle arrangement may be formed and subsequently attached to the bristle bed. For example, bristles made of a thermoplastic elastomer may be inserted into a silicon bed. It is to be understood that any feature described in relation to any one example may be used alone, or in combination with other features described, and may also be used in combination with one or more features of any other of the examples, or any combination of any other of the examples. Furthermore, equivalents and modifications not described above may also be employed without departing from the scope of the accompanying claims.

Claims

1. A haircare device comprising:a bristle bed having a longitudinal axis and a transverse axis; anda plurality of bristles protruding from the bed, each bristle having a proximal end nearest the bed, a distal end furthest from the bed, and an intermediate portion between the proximal and distal ends, the plurality of bristles comprising a first set of bristles and a second set of bristles,wherein:the first set of bristles is arranged substantially along the longitudinal axis;the intermediate portion of each bristle of the first set of bristles is curved, such that the distal end of each bristle of the first set is substantially aligned with the transverse axis; andthe distal end of each bristle of the second set of bristles is oriented in adifferent direction to the distal end of each bristle of the first set;wherein:the proximal end of each bristle of the first set of bristles comprises a first radial direction and a second radial direction, perpendicular to the first radial direction, and wherein a flexural modulus along the first radial direction is greater than a flexural modulus along the second radial direction.

2. The haircare device of claim 1, wherein the distal end of each of the first set ofbristles is spaced apart from the bristle bed by a first spacing, and wherein the distal end of each of the second set of bristles is spaced apart from the bristle bed by no more than the first spacing.

3. The haircare device of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the first set of bristles is arranged, in use, along a leading edge of the bristle bed.

4. The haircare device of any preceding claim, wherein the plurality of bristles comprises a third set of bristles arranged substantially along the longitudinal axis; andthe intermediate portion of each bristle of the third set of bristles is curved, such that the distal end of each bristle of the third set is substantially aligned with the transverse axis of the bristle bed.

5. The haircare device of claim 4, wherein the third set of bristles is arranged, in use, along a trailing edge of the bristle bed.

6. The haircare device of claim 4 or claim 5, wherein one or more distal ends of the first or third set of bristles extend substantially away from one or more distal ends of the respective other of the third and first set of bristles.

7. The haircare device of any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein each bristle of the second set of bristles protrudes from the bristle bed between the first set of bristles and the third set of bristles.

8. The haircare device of any preceding claim, wherein the first radial direction issubstantially aligned with the transverse axis.

9. The haircare device of any preceding claim, wherein a cross-section of the proximal end of at least one of the first set of bristles has a first size in the first radial direction and a second size, smaller than the first size, in the second radial direction.

10. The haircare device of claim 9, wherein the cross-section of the proximal end of the at least one of the first set of bristles has an oval shape or an obround shape.

11. The haircare device of any preceding claim, comprising an airflow generator configured to generate, in use, an airflow over the bristle bed in an airflow direction substantially parallel to the first radial direction.

12. The haircare device of any preceding claim, comprising an airflow generator configured to generate, in use, an airflow through one or more apertures in the bristlebed in a direction substantially parallel to a longitudinal direction of the proximal end of one or more bristles of the first set of bristles.

13. The haircare device of any preceding claim, wherein the distal end of each of the first set of bristles is arranged such that, in use, the intermediate portion contacts a scalp of a user.

14. The haircare device of any preceding claim, wherein the distal end of each of the first set of bristles is substantially perpendicular to the respective proximal end of each of the first set of bristles.

15. The haircare device of any preceding claim, wherein the intermediate portion of each of the first and / or third set of bristles has a radius of curvature of at least 2.5 mm.

16. The haircare device of any preceding claim, wherein the distal end of each of the first and / or third set of bristles is substantially parallel to the bristle bed.

17. The haircare device of any preceding claim, wherein the proximal end of each of the first set of bristles is substantially perpendicular to the bristle bed.

18. The haircare device of any preceding claim, further comprising a frame having an air inlet, wherein:the bristle bed comprises first and second movable members;a first air outlet in fluid communication with the air inlet is defined by the first movable member and the frame;a second air outlet in fluid communication with the air inlet is defined by the second movable member and the frame; andthe first and second movable members are movable with respect to the frame between a first position in which, in use, airflow is directed from the first and second air outlets in a first direction, and a second position in which, in use,airflow is directed from the first and second air outlets in a second direction, different from the first direction.

19. The haircare device of claim 18, wherein the plurality of bristles protrudes from at least one of the first movable member and the second movable member.

20. The haircare device of any preceding claim, wherein the haircare device is at least one of: a hairbrush or an attachment for mounting to a haircare appliance.

21. A haircare appliance comprising the haircare device of any one of claims 1 to 20.

22. A bristle for a haircare device, wherein the bristle comprises:a distal end;a proximal end for disposing on a bed of the haircare device, the proximal end opposite to the distal end; andan intermediate portion between the distal end and the proximal end, wherein:the intermediate portion is curved;the proximal end of the bristle comprises a first radial direction and a second radial direction, perpendicular to the first radial direction; anda flexural modulus along the first radial direction is greater than a flexural modulus along the second radial direction.

23. The bristle of claim 22, wherein a cross-section of the proximal end of the bristle has an oval shape or an obround shape.Application No: GB2413493.4Claims searched: 1-23Examiner: Mr David McWhirterDate of search: 12 March 2025Patents Act 1977: Search Report under Section 17Documents considered to be relevant:Category Relevant to claims Identity of document and passage or figure of particular relevance A - US 2021 / 0169210 Al (CHU) see whole document A - KR 20080002410 U (B YOUNG C C) see whole document A - US 2017 / 0290291 Al (MOELLER et al.) see whole document A - DE 102014221314 Al (WAHL CLIPPER CORP) see whole document A - US 4504998 A (PRICE et al.) see whole document A - KR 20110006848 U (YUN Y J) see whole document A - US 2022 / 0061515 Al (PULFREY et al.) see whole document A - KR 20080000886 U (YUN Y J) see whole document A - GB 2558729 A (HAIRSHARK LTD) see whole documentCategories:X Document indicating lack of novelty or inventive step A Document indicating technological background and / or state of the art. Y Document indicating lack of inventive step if P Document published on or after the declared priority date but combined with one or more other documents of same category. before the filing date of this invention. & Member of the same patent family E Patent document published on or after, but with priority date earlier than, the filing date of this application.Field of Search:International Classification:Subclass Subgroup Valid From A46D 0001 / 00 01 / 01 / 2006

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