Hair Treatment Device

Abstract

A device (1), in particular a hairbrush, for steaming hair, comprising: a treatment plate (2) adapted to come into contact with the hair during treatment; a vaporization chamber (5) to which liquid water is supplied, the liquid water being converted into vapor; at least one distribution chamber (6, 6a, 6b) for distributing steam onto the hair, the distribution chamber (6, 6a, 6b) being different from the vaporization chamber and in fluid communication with the vaporization chamber; a heating system (3) disposed between the processing plate and the vaporization chamber and configured to heat the vaporization chamber to a temperature equal to or greater than the water vaporization temperature and to heat at least a portion of the processing plate; A device having

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a device for steaming hair and a corresponding method for treating hair. [Background technology]

[0002] In the field of hair styling, it is common to use hair treatment devices such as brushes, especially implements for dispensing steam.

[0003] US Pat. No. 5,399,433 and US Pat. No. 5,499,443 describe a straightening iron comprising a first unit for heating the vaporization chamber and a second unit, different from the first unit, for heating the treatment plate.

[0004] US Pat. No. 5,399,433 describes a brush for generating steam. The brush heating system is different from the heating system for generating steam.

[0005] DE 10 200 033 333 A1 describes a hair iron with three different heating units, namely a heating unit for the vaporization chamber and two other heating units for heating the treatment plates.

[0006] These configurations using separate heating elements are often preferred as they allow the heating of the two elements to be controlled independently.

[0007] Nos. 5,299,633 and 5,363,326 describe hair irons in which the element for heating the treatment plate also heats the vaporization chamber, which feeds directly into the steam outlet.

[0008] Patent document 7 describes a curling iron with a heating block for heating both the porous element immersed in liquid and the plates for treating the hair. In this document, the liquid contained in the porous element is vaporized in vaporization chambers on both sides of the porous element, which provide a direct supply to the steam outlets. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0009] [Patent Document 1] CN105708099 [Patent Document 2] WO2017174035 [Patent Document 3] CN205866296 [Patent Document 4] JP2017077432 [Patent Document 5] EP1967088 [Patent Document 6] EP2449911 [Patent Document 7] WO2004002262 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0010] There remains a need to further improve devices for treating hair by applying steam, in particular to have a device for treating hair by heating and applying steam that is compact, has limited energy losses and is reliable in operation whilst being relatively simple to manufacture and use. [Means for solving the problem]

[0011] The present invention aims to meet this need and achieves this by providing a device for steaming hair, in particular a hairbrush, which comprises: a treatment plate adapted to contact the hair during treatment; a vaporization chamber supplied with liquid water, the liquid water being converted into vapor; at least one distribution chamber for distributing steam onto the hair, the distribution chamber being different from the vaporization chamber and in fluid communication with the vaporization chamber; a heating system disposed between the processing plate and the vaporization chamber and configured to heat the vaporization chamber to a temperature equal to or greater than the water vaporization temperature and to heat at least a portion of the processing plate; has.

[0012] In the device according to the invention, the heating means necessary for generating steam on the one hand and for heating the processing plate on the other hand are shared. They therefore have the advantage that it is possible to make the device compact. Furthermore, the energy losses can be reduced by optimally using the released heat.

[0013] The presence of a vapor distribution chamber distinct from the evaporation chamber limits the amount of water that drips onto the hair during treatment, regardless of the device's orientation, thus providing a more reliable operation and making the device easier for the user to use since it can be used without having to worry about its orientation.

[0014] The vapor distribution chamber may distribute the vapor at the vapor outlet or may distribute the vapor at all or a portion of the vapor outlet.

[0015] Preferably, the treatment plate is adapted to contact or face the hair. Preferably, said treatment plate comprises a base with a flat or outwardly domed outer surface. Preferably, said treatment plate has a substantially polygonal, in particular rectangular or square, outline when viewed from the side, but may also be circular or oval.

[0016] Preferably, the processing device has an elongated shape along its major axis. As a variant, the device has a different, non-elongated shape.

[0017] Preferably, the treatment device has a handle and a head. The handle facilitates gripping the device and allows additional elements to be added to the device, in particular a user interface, a water container, and possibly a cosmetic container. Preferably, the head comprises a vaporization chamber, one or more dispensing chambers, a heating system, and a plate.

[0018] The head of the processing device may have any shape in cross section. Preferably, the head of the device is substantially polygonal, in particular substantially rectangular or substantially square, substantially oval or circular in cross section. Other cross-sectional shapes are conceivable, such as a cross section having a polygonal contour on one side and a non-polygonal, in particular round, contour on the other side. Preferably, the head of the device is generally flat in cross section.

[0019] Brush The device, in particular the head of the device, in particular the treatment plate, may comprise a plurality of teeth for combing the hair. The teeth preferably extend from the base of the treatment plate.

[0020] Preferably, the base of the treatment surface comprises a substantially flat surface adapted to contact the hair and having the teeth extending from this surface.

[0021] At least one tooth, preferably at least some of the teeth, more preferably all of the teeth, may have a proximal portion inserted into the base of the treatment plate. As a variant, at least one tooth, preferably all of the teeth, are integrally formed with or attached to the base of the treatment plate.

[0022] At least one of the teeth, preferably at least some of the teeth, more preferably all of the teeth may be made from a heat insulating material.At least one of the teeth, preferably at least some of the teeth, more preferably all of the teeth may be made from a heat conducting material, in particular a metal.

[0023] Preferably, the treatment device is a brush and the treatment plate is in particular provided with a plurality of teeth.

[0024] It is to be understood that the term "brush" refers to a hair treatment device constituted by a single arm carrying a number of tines, the hair being received between the tines as the brush passes over the hair. The brush may comprise a single row of tines, but preferably comprises multiple rows of tines, which may be staggered.

[0025] It should be understood that the term "teeth", sometimes called "bristles" or "spikes", refers to elements that protrude from the brush and between which the hair is received as the brush passes over it. The teeth may have any shape. They may be flexible or rigid and, where applicable, may have a rounded head or ball at the end.

[0026] The device according to the invention makes it possible to effectively treat the hair while brushing it. It is in particular possible to heat and steam the hair in one go. The device according to the invention makes it possible for the hair to have a long-lasting shape.

[0027] teeth Preferably, the teeth extend from the base of the treatment plate of the brush.

[0028] The teeth extend in at least one row of teeth, and preferably may extend in at least two rows of teeth, each row of teeth extending parallel to the major axis of the brush.

[0029] The treatment plate of the brush may have a substantially rectangular or elliptical shape when viewed from the side, and the teeth may extend in several rows of teeth, each row extending along the main axis of the brush in the case of a brush having a treatment surface with a substantially rectangular or elliptical contour.

[0030] Preferably, each row of teeth comprises at least 3 teeth, preferably 10-40 teeth, more preferably 15-40 teeth.

[0031] At least one of the teeth, preferably some of the teeth, more preferably all of the teeth, may be heated by the heating system, in particular to a temperature of 180° C. or higher. The combination of heating and steaming of the teeth allows for improved treatment of the hair. In particular, it allows for a higher temperature to be maintained in the steam application spaces, in particular in the spaces between the teeth, when the steam is injected into these spaces. It also allows for the hair to be heated with dry heat before and after steaming, improving the steaming of the hair.

[0032] Using the same heating system to generate steam to heat the teeth of the treatment plate makes it possible to have a lighter device that is easier to handle.

[0033] At least some of the teeth of the treatment plate, preferably all of the teeth of the treatment plate, may be made of a heat-conducting material, in particular iron, aluminium, titanium, stainless steel, graphite or ceramic.

[0034] Preferably, the thermally conductive material has a thermal conductivity of 10 Wm -1 K -1 Higher than 50Wm -1 K -1 Higher than 100Wm -1 K -1 Preferably, the thermally conductive material is selected from metals, in particular copper, aluminum and steel. Alternatively, the thermally conductive material may be ceramic.

[0035] The heating system may heat at least some of the teeth, in particular at least two teeth, preferably at least one or more rows of teeth, in particular all of the teeth made from a heat-conducting material. This allows the teeth to be easily heated by the heating means and allows the hair to be in contact with a hot surface in the heated combing area. The teeth may have a heat shield at the end of the teeth made from a heat insulating material, in particular an elastomer or plastic, to limit the heat coming into contact with the scalp.

[0036] Preferably, the teeth have a height of from 2 mm to 50 mm, more preferably from 5 mm to 20 mm.

[0037] Preferably, the teeth have no surface protrusions.

[0038] Preferably, at least some of the teeth, preferably all of the teeth, are attached to the base of the treatment plate, in particular fixed into holes in the base of the treatment plate. As a variant, at least some of the teeth, preferably all of the teeth, are formed integrally with the base of the treatment plate.

[0039] The teeth may extend perpendicular to the base of the processing plate or may be inclined relative to said processing surface.

[0040] Preferably, the teeth all extend along axes which are mutually parallel.

[0041] Some of the teeth may be made from a material with low thermal conductivity, for example an elastomer or plastic, to limit the risk of burning the scalp, particularly at the ends as mentioned above.

[0042] Preferably, the material with low thermal conductivity has a thermal conductivity of 0.2 to 0.5 Wm -1 K -1 Includes.

[0043] The brush may have alternating rows of teeth made from a thermally conductive material and rows of teeth made from a material with low or no thermal conductivity arranged along an axis perpendicular to the major axis of the brush.

[0044] The teeth made of a material with low or no thermal conductivity may have a different height, in particular higher than the teeth made of a thermally conductive material, so that the presence of the teeth with low thermal conductivity that are higher than the thermally conductive material makes it possible to limit the contact between the scalp and the thermally conductive material, with only the teeth with low or no thermal conductivity in contact with the scalp.

[0045] The base of the plate is preferably made of a thermally conductive material, which may allow to maximize the surface for heat exchange between the heating system and the base of the plate. At least some of the teeth may be attached to the base of the plate and may be made of a material with low thermal conductivity, in particular an insulating material. At least some of the teeth may be formed integrally with the base of the plate.

[0046] As a variant, the base of the plate may be made of a material with low thermal conductivity, in particular a thermal insulating material. In this case, at least some of the teeth may be attached to the base of the plate and made of a thermally conductive material as described above. At least some of the teeth that are not intended to be heated may be integrally formed with or attached to the base of the plate and made of a material with low or no thermal conductivity.

[0047] Heating System Preferably, the vaporization chamber is heated primarily, and in particular exclusively, by the heating system.

[0048] Preferably, the heating system comprises a single heating element. As a variant, the heating system comprises a plurality of heating elements, for example two heating elements arranged between the vaporization chamber and the treatment plate, the heating elements being configured to bring the vaporization chamber to a temperature equal to or higher than the water evaporation temperature. When a plurality of heating elements are used, they may be adjacent to each other or spaced apart from each other, in particular separated by a steam distribution chamber or at least one steam outlet conduit.

[0049] Preferably, the treatment plate is not an active heating element, in particular the treatment plate may be a passive heating element or an insulating element.

[0050] Preferably, the heating system is an active heating element separate from the processing plate.

[0051] The term "passive heating element" is to be understood as an element that can conduct heat but does not generate heat itself, in contrast to an active heating element, such as a thermal resistor or other active heating means, which is the source of heat itself. The treatment plate is preferably only subjected to the heat of the heating system and / or steam.

[0052] The heating system is preferably separate from the processing plate.

[0053] The term "separate from the processing plate" should be understood to mean not made of the same material as the processing plate and / or not incorporated into the processing plate.

[0054] The processing plate and the heating system may be of different materials.

[0055] Preferably, there is no continuity of material between the processing plate and the heating system.

[0056] The heating system may in particular comprise, and in particular consist of, one or more heating resistors or any other suitable heating means.

[0057] The heating means may be substantially parallelepiped shaped.

[0058] The heating system may have a major surface facing the vaporization chamber and an opposing major surface facing the processing plate.

[0059] The heating system may be in contact with the surface of the processing plate, in particular the underside of the base of the processing plate, via one of its main surfaces.

[0060] The heating system may be in contact with the wall defining the vaporization chamber via one of its main faces, in particular the face opposite to the face in contact with the processing plate.

[0061] Thermal paste may be disposed at the interface between the heating system and the plate, and between the heating system and the wall of the vaporization chamber.

[0062] Preferably, the heating system is arranged to heat the evaporation chamber so that, in use, the temperature within the evaporation chamber is at or above the evaporation temperature, in particular whenever liquid water flows into the evaporation chamber.

[0063] The heating system may be configured to heat the vaporization chamber to a temperature between 100°C and 200°C, preferably to a temperature between 110°C and 180°C.

[0064] The heating system may be configured to heat at least a portion of the processing plate to a temperature between 100°C and 250°C, preferably between 150°C and 230°C, more preferably between 170°C and 210°C.

[0065] The heating system may have a power of 50 W, possibly 100 W, 200 W, or even 500 W or more. In particular, the heating power of the heating system is selected, having regard to the flow rate of the arriving water and the temperature of the water, such that all of the water is continuously vaporized in the vaporization chamber as it arrives therein.

[0066] The device may include a switch for turning on the heating system, for example if the heating system includes a heating resistor, the switch may enable turning on the heating resistor or turning on a control circuit for heating the heating resistor, the control circuit providing power to the heating resistor, for example to regulate the temperature and maintain a set point temperature.

[0067] The switch may be operated by the user via a selector, for example a button having two or three positions.

[0068] In the case of a brush, the selector may be located on the grip handle.

[0069] The selector may also make it possible to modify the temperature of the heating system. The temperature of the treatment plates and / or the teeth of the brushes may thus be adapted to the type of hair to be treated and / or to the characteristics of the treatment carried out. The same device may thus be used to treat more than one type of hair.

[0070] A device according to the invention may include a power source, for example being powered by an accumulator and / or a battery and / or an electrical cable connected to a socket or power adapter.

[0071] The power supply may in particular make it possible to supply power directly to a heating resistor of the heating system, or indirectly via a control circuit.

[0072] Vaporization chamber The evaporation chamber does not have to have elements for absorbing the liquid to be evaporated. The device is therefore easier to manufacture and lighter. It is therefore easier to handle and, in the case of a brush, makes it possible to brush the hair in several directions. The evaporation of water is also easier, limiting the formation of limescale.

[0073] The vaporization chamber may preferably include at least one wall opposite the heating system that is concave towards the treatment plate, in particular a wall whose cross section is in the shape of a part of a circle. Such a shape for the vaporization chamber makes it possible to have a substantially constant and homogeneous pressure and temperature of the vapor in the vaporization chamber, thereby limiting the presence of liquid water particles in a turbid state in the vapor contained in the vaporization chamber.

[0074] Preferably, the vaporization chamber comprises a substantially flat wall in contact with the heating system.

[0075] The vaporization chamber may have a substantially polygonal, in particular rectangular, cross section, such that the vaporization chamber can be heated substantially uniformly across its width, allowing for rapid generation of vapor.

[0076] The cross section of the vaporization chamber may have a surface area of ​​3 cm2 to 10 cm2, more preferably 4 cm2 to 7 cm2, for example, about 5 cm2.

[0077] The volume of the vaporization chamber is preferably 20 cm 3 ~100cm 3 , more preferably 30 cm 3 ~70cm 3 , for example, 45cm 3 It may be to some extent.

[0078] Such a vaporization chamber can hold enough vapor to ensure efficient treatment of the hair and still have a sufficiently small and lightweight device.

[0079] The device includes an inlet for liquid water into the vaporization chamber.

[0080] The water inlet may be connected to a liquid water container. The device may include a container, for example, in a handle. The device may include a pump between the water container and the vaporization chamber. The container may have a volume of 1 ml to 50 ml. Such a volume makes it possible to hold enough water to be able to completely treat the hair without the need to refill the container during treatment, making the device portable and compact.

[0081] The device is preferably portable.

[0082] In a variant, the container may be separate from the device. In a particular embodiment, the device comprises a handheld component and a base. The base may have a water container. The handheld component of the device may be connected to the base, for example by a hose that allows the water to circulate. The handheld component may be supplied with water by a supply device, for example a pump. With such a device, the handheld component may be lighter since it does not contain water. This makes it easier to treat the hair. Furthermore, the container separate from the device may hold more water. It may be possible to perform several treatments before it is necessary to refill the container.

[0083] The device may include a system, in particular a pump, for supplying water to the vaporization chamber. The supply system may be configured to supply the vaporization chamber as a function of the temperature of the vaporization chamber or as a function of the time that has elapsed since the device was started. The supply system may be configured to supply the vaporization chamber only when the temperature of the chamber exceeds a predefined threshold temperature or when the time that has elapsed since the device was started is equal to or greater than a predefined time, in particular corresponding to the time it takes for the vaporization chamber to reach the predefined threshold temperature. The temperature of the vaporization chamber may be measured using a sensor located in the vaporization chamber or at the interface between the heating system and the vaporization chamber.

[0084] Controlling the water uptake as a function of temperature makes it possible to limit the risk of adding liquid water instead of steam.

[0085] The device may include a vapor control member configured to control whether the hair is steamed. For example, the vapor control member may control the intake of water into the vaporization chamber. When a user desires to steam the hair, the vapor control member is actuated, which then controls, for example, a pump connected to a container to pump liquid water into the vaporization chamber.

[0086] Distribution Chamber The device may include a single vapor distribution chamber.

[0087] As a variant, the device comprises several distribution chambers, in particular two distribution chambers, in particular two distribution chambers arranged on either side of the vaporization chamber.

[0088] The or at least one distribution chamber may extend at least partially transversely to the superposition of the vaporization chamber and the heating system. Preferably, all of the distribution chambers extend at least partially transversely to the superposition of the vaporization chamber and the heating system. Such a transverse configuration of the distribution chamber or chambers makes it possible to create a distribution chamber having a thickness that substantially corresponds to the combined thickness of the heating system and the vaporization chamber. This makes the device even more compact and maximizes the heat exchange with the vaporization chamber and the heating system. In particular, it may be beneficial if the or each distribution chamber is at a temperature above the water evaporation temperature, so that when water droplets are sprayed from the vaporization chamber into this chamber, these droplets are converted into steam inside the distribution chamber, so that only steam leaves the device.

[0089] At least one distribution chamber may extend between two heating elements of the heating system from the vaporization chamber to a vapor outlet, in particular at the processing plate.

[0090] The cross section of the distribution chamber may be in the range of 0.1 cm2 to 2 cm2, more preferably 0.3 cm2 to 1 cm2, for example around 0.5 cm2.

[0091] When the device has two distribution chambers, these may be arranged on either side of the overlap of the vaporization chamber and the heating system, as described above, and preferably over a thickness equal to or greater than the thickness of the vaporization chamber and the heating system.

[0092] The distribution chamber preferably has a wider base separated from the vaporization chamber by a vaporization chamber wall, which may make it possible to form a shoulder for positioning the heating system above the vaporization chamber.

[0093] The distribution chamber preferably has an L-shaped cross section. The lower part of the L, which forms the abovementioned wider base, may extend transversely to the vaporization chamber. The upper part of the L may extend transversely to the heating system.

[0094] The base of one or more of the distribution chambers may be disposed at substantially the same height as the top of the vaporization chamber. Such a configuration prevents liquid water remaining at the bottom of the vaporization chamber from flowing into the distribution chamber. Thus, substantially only vapor flows from the vaporization chamber to the distribution chamber, and no liquid water flows from the vaporization chamber to the distribution chamber.

[0095] The distribution chamber or chambers preferably extend substantially the entire length of the plate or vaporization chamber.

[0096] Steam outlet The treatment device, particularly the distribution chamber, may include multiple vapor outlets.

[0097] The distribution chamber may have at least one opening for the passage of steam, which may be a steam outlet, extending transversely to or through the treatment plate.

[0098] Preferably, the steam outlet extends near the periphery of the treatment plate.

[0099] The vapor outlet area may extend along an axis of extension that extends over more than 70%, preferably more than 80%, of the dimension of the treatment surface along the axis of extension. Preferably, the axis of extension is parallel to the main axis of the device.

[0100] The or each distribution chamber may be provided with a steam outlet, in particular a single steam outlet, extending along the extension axis, in particular along the entire length of the steam outlet area. In this case, the steam outlet may be 5 mm 2 The opening may have a cross section as described above.

[0101] The or each distribution chamber may comprise a plurality of vapour outlets extending in at least one row of alternating vapour outlets along the elongated axis.

[0102] The steam outlets of the row of steam outlets may be arranged in alternating fashion with the teeth arranged in the row of teeth, in particular with the teeth of the brush in the case of a brush, in particular with the teeth made of a thermally conductive material of the brush, as described above. As a variant, the steam outlets are arranged in areas of the brush that do not have teeth.

[0103] As a variant, the steam outlet may extend at a distance from the periphery of the treatment plate of the device. In the case of a brush, the steam outlet may laterally adjoin a tooth, in particular a row of teeth, in particular teeth made of a heat conducting material, as described above.

[0104] Preferably, the vapour outlet has a flow rate of 5 ml.min -1 Less than 0.2 to 4 ml.min, preferably -1 , more preferably 0.4 to 2 ml.min -1, and more preferably 0.5 to 0.95 ml.min -1 The steam having a steam flow rate of

[0105] The cross section of the steam outlet may have any shape, in particular a substantially square shape, a substantially rectangular shape, a substantially round shape or an oval shape.

[0106] The or each steam outlet shall be 20 mm 2 Less than 10mm, preferably 2 Less than 5mm, preferably 2 Less than 2 mm, more preferably 2 It has the following openings:

[0107] The steam outlets may be made in the treatment plate or, as a variant, in teeth supported by the treatment plate.

[0108] In one embodiment of the present invention, at least one tooth, preferably at least some of the teeth, may be hollow and may include a steam outlet. Preferably, the hollow teeth with steam outlets are aligned along the same extension axis. More preferably, the hollow teeth with steam outlets are arranged on the periphery of the treatment plate.

[0109] The steam supplied to the steam outlets made in the hollow teeth may come from the distribution chambers through openings for the passage of steam. Each distribution chamber may comprise an opening for the passage of steam, in particular a single opening for the passage of steam, which opening extends along the extension axis of the row of hollow teeth, in particular along the entire length of the area comprising hollow teeth with steam outlets. In this case, the opening for the passage of steam may be 5 mm 2 The device may have one or more openings, with the teeth or plate having a narrower portion defining a steam exit hole through which steam is emitted from the device.

[0110] The device's body The processing plate, the heating system, the vaporization chamber, and / or the one or more vapor distribution chambers may extend along parallel longitudinal axes.

[0111] In the case of a brush extending along a main axis, the treatment plate, the heating system, the vaporization chamber and / or the distribution chamber(s) may extend along a longitudinal axis parallel to the main axis of the brush.

[0112] The one or more distribution chambers and the vaporization chamber may be formed by a profile section.

[0113] The device may comprise a hollow body with at least two longitudinal cavities separated by a wall, the longitudinal cavities forming a vaporization chamber and a distribution chamber, respectively. The device has a housing for the heating system, the housing preferably having a substantially polygonal, in particular rectangular, cross section, the cross section being defined by at least one outer surface of the body, in particular the wall of the vaporization chamber and possibly the wall of the distribution chamber. The housing may be closed by the underside of the treatment plate, in particular the base of the treatment plate.

[0114] Preferably, the hollow body is made as a single block, in particular formed integrally as a single piece. Preferably, the hollow body is made from a heat-conducting material, for example metal. Preferably, the hollow body is formed from a metal section. The above-mentioned passage openings allowing the steam to exit from each distribution chamber may take the form of longitudinal slots extending over a majority of the length of the section.

[0115] The hollow body of the device may be formed from a metal section, in particular an aluminium section.

[0116] Preferably, the hollow body is received in an insulating casing of the device, which makes it possible to protect the user from heat.

[0117] Preferably, the housing receiving the heating system has a substantially rectangular cross-section, the main faces of the housing being defined by the walls of the vaporization chamber and the surface of the processing plate.

[0118] Preferably, the width of the heating system corresponds to the width of the housing.

[0119] One of the lateral sides of the housing may be defined by a wall of the dispensing chamber.

[0120] The treatment plate may contact the surface of the hollow body, in particular the body formed by the wall separating the housing from the vapor distribution chamber.

[0121] Such an arrangement of the various elements within the body of the device makes it possible to obtain a compact device.

[0122] Steam duct The device may include at least one duct, preferably at least two ducts, for supplying steam to the steam outlet.

[0123] Preferably, at least one duct, more preferably at least two ducts extend between the distribution chamber(s) and the vaporization chamber for supplying vapor to the distribution chamber(s).

[0124] The or each duct may extend at the longitudinal ends of the vaporization chamber and the distribution chamber.

[0125] Preferably, the duct is present in the base of the distribution chamber, for example opposite the plate in the above-mentioned wider base of the distribution chamber. Preferably, the duct is present in the upper part of the vaporization chamber.

[0126] The or each duct may include curved and / or straight portions.

[0127] The duct may put the distribution chamber in fluid communication with the vaporization chamber. In the case of several distribution chambers, as a variant the duct may put all of the distribution chambers in fluid communication with the vaporization chamber.

[0128] End Cover The device may include an end cover at at least one of the longitudinal ends of the device, preferably at both longitudinal ends of the device, for closing at least the vaporization chamber and the dispensing chamber at this end.

[0129] The or each end cover may have at least one groove at least partially forming a duct for fluid communication between the vaporization chamber and the one or more distribution chambers.

[0130] Preferably, the grooves are made on the inner surface of the cover, which is the surface facing the vaporization and distribution chambers.

[0131] The treatment device may be oriented in different directions during use, for example when brushing hair, and the duct for fluid communication between the distribution chamber and the evaporation chamber ensures that liquid water contained in the evaporation chamber is prevented from entering the distribution chamber, regardless of the orientation of the device.

[0132] The groove may have at least one bend, and preferably two bends in opposite directions, and therefore may have a generally S-shape when the end cover is viewed from the side.

[0133] As a variant, the grooves are straight when the end cover is viewed from the side.

[0134] The or each duct may be essentially straight. The or each duct may extend transversely to the longitudinal axis of the device and may extend over at least 50%, preferably at least 70%, more preferably at least 80% of the end cover.

[0135] seal The device may include a seal between the or each cover and the body of the device, the seal comprising at least one opening.

[0136] Preferably, the seal comprises the following openings: an opening facing, on the one hand, the distribution chamber, in particular the lower part of the distribution chamber, and, on the other hand, a groove made in the end cover; An opening which on the one hand faces the vaporization chamber, in particular the top of the vaporization chamber, and on the other hand faces a groove made in the end cover.

[0137] As a variant, the seal comprises a single opening extending facing the vaporization chamber and the at least one distribution chamber.

[0138] Preferably, when the seal and the end cover are viewed superimposed along the longitudinal axis of the vaporization chamber, the opening in the seal is at least partially superimposed on the groove in the end cover, In this manner, a duct between the vaporization chamber and one or more distribution chambers may be formed through which vapor may flow into the distribution chamber.

[0139] Ducts allowing steam to flow from the evaporation chamber to the one or more distribution chambers may also be integrally formed in the thickness direction of the seal, with the end cover having a surface in contact with the seal that does not have a hollow relief, for example.

[0140] According to another of its aspects, either independently of or in combination with the above-mentioned aspects, the present invention also relates to a device for steaming hair, in particular a hairbrush, comprising: a hollow body into which liquid water is supplied and which is heated to vaporize the liquid water; and at least one end cover disposed at a longitudinal end of the hollow body, the end cover including a duct configured to convey steam from one cavity of the hollow body to another cavity of the hollow body to an exterior of the hollow body.

[0141] This aspect of the invention has the advantage of simplifying the manufacture of hollow bodies: it can be used to manufacture the body as an extruded section.

[0142] According to another of its aspects, independent of or in combination with the above aspects thereof, the present invention relates to a device for steaming hair, in particular a hairbrush, comprising a one-piece hollow body, preferably a cross-section, having at least two cavities, each cavity extending in the longitudinal direction, transversely superimposed and transversely separated by a wall, forming a housing adapted to receive, respectively, an evaporation chamber, and a heating system, At least one outer surface of said hollow body forms a treatment plate adapted to contact the hair during treatment.

[0143] The processing plate may be made integral with the hollow body of the device, preferably forming part of the section, so that the device is easy to manufacture.

[0144] The plates may be smooth, for example so that the device may be used for hair straightening. As a variant, the plates may be machined to form teeth or other reliefs.

[0145] According to another of its aspects, independent of or in combination with the above aspects, the present invention relates to a device for steaming hair, in particular a hairbrush, comprising a hollow body, e.g. a cross-section, having at least two cavities, each extending in the longitudinal direction, superimposed in the transverse direction and separated in the transverse direction by a wall, forming a housing adapted to receive, respectively, an evaporation chamber and a heating system, the hollow body further comprising at least one longitudinal slot made in its outer surface, through which the steam formed in the evaporation chamber is released.

[0146] The treatment plate may be arranged on the hollow body so as to be superimposed on the longitudinal slot. The treatment plate may include openings forming steam outlets. Thus, the steam outlets in the treatment plate may be supplied with steam via the longitudinal slots in the hollow body. Such an arrangement makes it possible to ensure uniform distribution of steam across the treatment plate, thus improving the treatment of hair.

[0147] Treatment Method According to another of its aspects, the invention further relates to a method for treating hair using a device according to the invention, the method comprising the steps of contacting the hair with a treatment plate and applying steam to the hair via one or more steam outlets.

[0148] Preferably, the total flow rate of the steam exiting the steam outlet may be between 0.5g / min and 2g / min, more preferably between 0.7g / min and 2g / min.

[0149] Preferably, the method is a hair brushing process.

[0150] The device functions described above may be combined with each other or applied separately to the method.

[0151] The method may be repeated several times to thoroughly treat some or all of the hair.

[0152] The method may include one or more steps of rinsing the hair.

[0153] The method may comprise at least one step of applying a cosmetic product to the hair strand before or after, preferably before, using the device of the invention, in particular the brush.

[0154] The cosmetic product may be a composition for washing, dyeing, bleaching, conditioning or shaping the hair. Preferably, the cosmetic product is a hair shaping composition, in particular a composition for curling, setting or, preferably, relaxing or straightening the hair.

[0155] The cosmetic products that can be used according to the method of the invention may be liquids, gels, milks or creams in the form of single emulsions (O / W or W / O) or multiple emulsions, or solids.

[0156] The cosmetic product may comprise one or more active agents selected from reducing agents, in particular thiols, oxidizing agents, in particular hydrogen peroxide or persalts such as persulfates, colorants, in particular pigments, direct or oxidative dyes, temporary shaping agents, in particular styling polymers, preferably anionic, amphoteric or nonionic, conditioning agents, in particular silicones, mineral or vegetable oils, vegetable waxes, cationic surfactants or cationic polymers, alkaline agents or acids. Even more preferably, the cosmetic product comprises one or more agents selected from oxidizing agents of the hydroxide type, reducing agents or alkaline agents.

[0157] The invention can be better understood by reading the following description of a non-limiting implementation example thereof and by examining the accompanying drawings, in which: [Brief description of the drawings]

[0158] [Figure 1]FIG. 13 shows a schematic diagram of an example of a device according to an alternative embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the device in FIG. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the device in FIG. 1. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the body of a device according to one variant of the invention; [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is an end view of the body of the device in FIG. 4. [Figure 6] FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the main body of the device in FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the body of the device in FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a view showing the end cover of FIG. 7 alone. [Figure 9] FIG. 8 is a view showing the end seal of FIG. 7 alone. [Figure 10] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0159] 1 to 3 show an example of an embodiment of a device 1 according to the invention. The device extends along a main axis X. The device 1 comprises a treatment plate 2 including a base 10 and teeth 20 whose proximal ends are attached to the base 10.

[0160] The device 1 may further comprise hollow teeth 21 extending around the periphery of the treatment plate and provided with steam outlets 22, as shown.

[0161] The device 1 comprises a hollow body 4 formed from a metal section having three longitudinal cavities separated by walls forming a vaporization chamber 5 and two distribution chambers 6a and 6b, respectively, shown in Figures 2 and 3.

[0162] The device 1 has a housing 30 adapted to receive the heating system 3. The housing 30 extends along a sectioned hollow body 4 and has, for example, a rectangular cross section, the lower part of which is defined by a partition 90 of the vaporization chamber 5. The housing is laterally defined by the partitions 91 of the distribution chambers 6a and 6b and the surface of the treatment plate 2.

[0163] The vaporization chamber 5 is, for example, rectangular in cross section. The distribution chambers 6a and 6b are, for example, L-shaped in cross section and are symmetrical to each other with respect to a median plane of symmetry containing the axis X.

[0164] The heating system 3 has a flat shape and has a main surface 31 facing the vaporization chamber and an opposite main surface 32 facing the processing plate.

[0165] The heating system 3 is arranged between the treatment plate 2 and the vaporization chamber 5 in the housing 30. The heating system 3 thus heats the vaporization chamber 5, the base of the treatment plate 2 and the teeth simultaneously.

[0166] Each chamber 6 a and 6 b has a wider base 60 separated from the vaporization chamber 5 by a wall 50 .

[0167] Each distribution chamber 6a and 6b comprises a distribution opening 61 through which the steam exits. As can be seen in Fig. 3, the distribution openings 61 are formed by slots and may extend over more than 80% of the length of the treatment plate 2. Each of the openings 61 is located below a row of hollow teeth 21 comprising a steam outlet 22. The steam contained in the distribution chambers 6a and 6b passes through the distribution openings 61 and then through the steam outlet 22 before being applied to the hair during treatment.

[0168] The upper wall of each distribution chamber 6a, 6b includes an opening 61 through which vapour passes and is recessed from the treatment plate.

[0169] The device 1 further comprises, in the example shown, a liquid water supply duct 9 which extends longitudinally below the head of the device. The supply duct may be made of elastomeric plastic or copper metal.

[0170] For example, this supply duct 9 is connected to the vaporization chamber 5, for example by means of a bend connecting the supply duct 9 to a longitudinal end of the vaporization chamber 5. As a variant, the supply duct 9 may include an opening 90 present on the underside 51 of the vaporization chamber 5. This chamber may thus be supplied with water via its underside 51.

[0171] A seal may be placed between the supply duct and the evaporation chamber to prevent liquid water from escaping.

[0172] The device 1 includes an end cover 8 at each of its longitudinal ends, which closes the vaporization chamber 5 and the dispensing chambers 6a and 6b at said ends. The end covers 8 may be secured to the device by any means, for example, one or more screws 83, adhesive bonding, welding, snap fitting, crimping, etc. A seal 7, in particular an elastomeric seal, may be inserted between the body 4 and each cover 8, as shown.

[0173] Groove 70 may be substantially linear and formed in each end cover 8. Each seal 7 may include an opening 80 that is substantially similar in shape to groove 70, such that opening 80 faces groove 70 when end cover 8 and seal 7 are mated to body 4 of the device.

[0174] The openings 80 and the grooves 70 make it possible to form a duct 85 that communicates the exterior of the body 4 with the vaporization chamber 5 and the distribution chambers 6a and 6b. Thus, the vapour generated in the vaporization chamber may flow into the distribution chambers 6a and 6b.

[0175] The end cover 8 and seal 7 may include holes 84 for receiving screws 83 to secure them to the body 4 of the device.

[0176] An alternative embodiment is shown in FIGS.

[0177] In this variant, the body 4 of the device has a different cross section and is nevertheless made of a metal cross section.

[0178] The body has three longitudinal cavities, two of which are separated by a wall 50 and form respectively a vaporization chamber 5 and a distribution chamber 6. The third cavity forms a housing 30 adapted to receive a heating system.

[0179] The housing 30 has, for example, a rectangular cross section. In the example in question, the housing 30 is defined by a partition 90 of the vaporization chamber 5, a partition 91 of the distribution chamber 6 and a surface 92 of the processing plate 2.

[0180] The vaporization chamber 5 includes a partition 93 opposite the partition 91, which is concave, for example towards the processing plate 2, as shown.

[0181] The vaporization chamber 5 is supplied with liquid water via a water intake, for example a tube 92, which passes through an end cover and seal and emerges into the vaporization chamber. The tube 92 may be made of copper or an elastomeric plastic. This tube 92 allows the water to be delivered in several directions, as shown in FIG. 7.

[0182] In this example, the treatment plate 2 is formed by the upper surface 25 of the hollow body 4. In a variant not shown, the treatment plate 2 is attached to the upper surface 25 of the hollow body.

[0183] The heating system 3 is disposed between the vaporization chamber 5 and the processing plate 2 and heats the vaporization chamber 5 and the processing plate 2 simultaneously.

[0184] As shown in Fig. 4, the device may include a power cable 100. This cable may, for example, supply power to a heating system. As a variant, the device may have a power battery to make it easier to handle.

[0185] The distribution chambers 6 are generally L-shaped and include a wider base 60, which is separated from the vaporization chamber 5 by a wall 50. The wider base 60 of the distribution chamber 6 is at least partially superimposed on the vaporization chamber. The distribution chambers 6 include a vapor distribution opening 61 at the top, for example in the form of a longitudinal slot similar to the previous example. The top wall of each distribution chamber includes the opening 61 through which the vapor passes and is recessed from the process plate.

[0186] Similar to the embodiment of FIGS. 1-3, the device comprises an end cover 8 at each longitudinal end of the device 1, which closes the vaporization chamber 5 as well as the dispensing chamber 6 by inserting a seal 7 therein.

[0187] In the embodiment of Figures 4-9, the seal 7 includes a first opening 81 and a second opening 82, both of which are oblong in shape. The first opening 81 is in the top of the vaporization chamber 5, and the second opening 82 is in the wider base 60 of the dispensing chamber 6.

[0188] A groove 70 is formed in the thickness of the end cover 8. This groove 70 is generally S-shaped and makes it possible to connect the two openings 81 and 82 in the seal 7. In this way, a duct with an S-shaped bend is formed between the vaporization chamber 5 and the distribution chamber 6. The particular shape of the duct prevents liquid water contained in the vaporization chamber 5 from entering the distribution chamber 6 and dripping onto the hair during treatment.

[0189] 10 shows another variant of the invention, in which two heating elements 3a and 3b are arranged between the treatment plate 2 and the vaporization chamber 5. The device according to this variant comprises a single distribution chamber 6, with the two heating elements 3a and 3b arranged on either side of the distribution chamber 6 in the lateral direction.

[0190] The distribution chamber 6 includes a distribution opening 61 which extends through the treatment plate 2 in an area without teeth 20 .

[0191] The distribution chamber 6 is generally T-shaped in cross section. The distribution chamber 6 is separated from the vaporization chamber 5 by a wall 50.

[0192] The distribution chamber 6 and the vaporization chamber 5 communicate via a duct formed in part by a groove made in the end cover, as explained above with reference to the other embodiments.

[0193] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above.

[0194] For example, the device may comprise a cosmetic applicator for applying the product to the hair.

[0195] The various embodiments and variations may be combined where compatible. [Explanation of symbols]

[0196] 1 Device 2 Treatment Plate 3. Heating System 3a, 3b Heating member 4 Hollow body, body 5 Vaporization chamber 6, 6a, 6b Distribution chamber 7 Seal 8 End cover 9 Liquid water supply duct 10 Base 20 teeth 21 Hollow Tooth 22 Steam outlet 25 Top 30 Housing 31 Main surface 32 Opposite main surface 50 Wall 51 Bottom surface 60 Wider Base 61 Distribution opening 70 groove 80 aperture 81, 82 aperture 83 Screw 84 holes 85 Duct 90 Bulkhead 91 Bulkhead 92 Surface, tube 93 Bulkhead 100 Power Cable

Claims

1. A device (1) for steam-treating hair, a treatment plate (2) adapted to contact the hair during treatment, a vaporization chamber (5) to which liquid water is supplied, the liquid water being converted into steam in the vaporization chamber (5), at least one distribution chamber (6, 6a, 6b) for distributing steam onto the hair, the distribution chamber (6, 6a, 6b) being different from and in fluid communication with the vaporization chamber, a heating system (3) disposed between the treatment plate and the vaporization chamber and configured to heat the vaporization chamber to a temperature above the water evaporation temperature and to heat at least a part of the treatment plate, having, the device (1) comprising a hollow body (4) having at least two longitudinal cavities separated by a wall (50), the cavities respectively forming the vaporization chamber (5) and the distribution chamber (6, 6a, 6b).

2. The device according to claim 1, wherein the vaporization chamber (5) does not have an element for absorbing the liquid to be vaporized.

3. The device according to claim 1, comprising a gripping handle and a head provided with a plurality of teeth (20) for scooping up the hair.

4. The device according to claim 3, wherein at least one of the plurality of teeth (20) is heated by the heating system (3).

5. The device according to claim 1, wherein the heating system (3) has a main surface (31) facing the vaporization chamber (5) and an opposite main surface (32) facing the treatment plate (2).

6. The device according to claim 1, wherein the one or more distribution chambers (6, 6a, 6b) and the vaporization chamber are formed by a profiled portion.

7. The device according to claim 1, wherein the vaporization chamber (5) comprises at least one wall (93) that is concave with respect to the processing plate (2).

8. The device according to claim 1, wherein the distribution chamber or at least one distribution chamber (6, 6a, 6b) has at least a part located laterally in the overlap of the vaporization chamber (5) and the heating system (3).

9. The device according to claim 1, wherein the vaporization chamber (5) comprises an inlet opening for introducing liquid water into the vaporization chamber (5).

10. The device according to claim 1, wherein the distribution chamber or at least one distribution chamber (6, 6a, 6b) has at least one opening (61) through which vapor passes, and the opening may be a vapor outlet, an opening on the surface of the device lateral to the processing plate (2), or an opening penetrating the processing plate (2).

11. The device according to claim 1, wherein the device comprises at least one duct for supplying vapor to the vapor outlet.

12. The device according to claim 11, wherein the duct or each duct extends at the longitudinal ends of the vaporization chamber and the distribution chamber.

13. The device according to claim 1, wherein the hollow body (4) has a housing (30) for the heating system (3).

14. The device according to claim 1, wherein the device comprises an end cover (8) for closing at least the vaporization chamber and the distribution chamber at at least one of the longitudinal ends of the device at the end.

15. The end cover (8) or each end cover (8) has at least one groove (70) that at least partially forms a duct for fluid communication between the vaporization chamber (5) and the one or more distribution chambers (6, 6a, 6b), the device according to claim 14.

16. The device includes a seal (7) between the end cover (8) or each end cover (8) and the body (4) of the device, the seal comprising at least one opening (80), the device according to claim 14.

17. The seal (7) is on the one hand, an opening (82) facing the distribution chamber (6) and on the other hand, facing the groove (70) made in the end cover (8), and on the one hand, an opening (81) facing the vaporization chamber (5) and on the other hand, facing the groove (70) made in the end cover (8), and comprises, the device according to claim 16.

18. A method for treating hair using the device (1) according to claim 1, the method comprising contacting the hair with the treatment plate (2) and applying steam to the hair via one or more steam outlets (22, 61).

19. The method according to claim 18, including at least one step of applying a cosmetic to a lock of hair before and / or after, preferably before, using the device (1) of the present invention.

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