Hair Care Accessories

Abstract

A hair care accessory is provided for use in drying and / or styling hair. The hair care accessory can include an elongated frame having a longitudinal axis and an inner lumen extending therethrough along the longitudinal axis. The hair care accessory can also include a plurality of plates disposed on the elongated frame. The plurality of plates can include a first row of plates that can be circumferentially spaced about a first longitudinal portion of the elongated frame and at least one second row of plates that can be circumferentially spaced about a second longitudinal portion of the elongated frame. Each plate in the first row of plates can define a first longitudinally extending outlet, and each plate in the second row of plates can define a second longitudinally extending outlet. The second longitudinally extending outlet is circumferentially offset from the first longitudinally extending outlet.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] A hair care accessory for use with a hair care device is provided. [Background technology]

[0002] A hair care accessory is a device that can be used with a hair care appliance to dry and style hair. A hair care accessory can include various components operable to receive and convey a fluid flow through a fluid flow path extending from the hair care appliance into the hair care accessory. The fluid flow path receives ambient air and directs the ambient air through the hair care appliance via a motor and fan assembly. The fluid flow path is directed across a heating assembly to generate heated air at an outlet of the hair care appliance. The air exits the hair care appliance through the fluid flow path, allowing a user to dry or style hair. Depending on the user's hair styling or treatment needs, one or more accessories are often used with the hair care appliance. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Generally, hair care accessories are provided for use in drying and / or styling hair. In one embodiment, a hair care accessory is provided having an elongated frame having a longitudinal axis and an inner lumen extending therethrough along the longitudinal axis. The hair care accessory can also include a plurality of plates disposed on the elongated frame. In some embodiments, the plurality of plates can include a first row of plates that can be spaced circumferentially around a first longitudinal portion of the elongated frame and at least one second row of plates that can be spaced circumferentially around a second longitudinal portion of the elongated frame. Each plate in the first row of plates can define a first longitudinally extending outlet, and each plate in the second row of plates can define a second longitudinally extending outlet. The second longitudinally extending outlet can be circumferentially offset from the first longitudinally extending outlet.

[0004] In some embodiments, the elongate frame may include a plurality of outlets spaced circumferentially about the elongate frame at first and second longitudinal portions of the elongate frame. In other embodiments, a first plurality of outlets in the first longitudinal portion of the elongate frame may be circumferentially offset from a second plurality of outlets in the second longitudinal portion of the elongate frame. In some embodiments, the plurality of outlets in the elongate frame may be fluidly coupled to the inner lumen of the elongate frame and configured to direct air from the inner lumen of the elongate frame through the first and second longitudinally extending outlets.

[0005] In other embodiments, one outlet group of the plurality of outlet groups can include two or more outlets. The two or more outlets can be circumferentially offset from one another. In some embodiments, the first and second longitudinally extending outlets can be configured to channel air circumferentially around the first and second plate rows, respectively. In other embodiments, the plates of the first and second plate rows can include an inner surface adjacent to the elongated frame. The inner surface can include a plurality of vanes adjacent to the first and second longitudinally extending outlets and protruding toward the elongated frame. In some embodiments, one or more vanes of the plurality of vanes can further include a spacing element opposite the first and second longitudinally extending outlets. The spacing element can be configured to maintain a gap between the elongated frame and the plates of the first and second plate rows.

[0006] In other embodiments, the hair care accessory can include an appliance mating portion disposed at a first end of the elongated frame. The appliance mating portion can be configured to removably couple the elongated frame to the hair care appliance. In some embodiments, the appliance mating portion can include an air inlet through which air is received from the hair care appliance.

[0007] In another embodiment, a hair care accessory is provided that includes a hollow, elongated frame having a plurality of openings. Each opening can include at least one curved wall oriented to direct fluid flow radially outward and circumferentially. The hair care accessory can also include a plurality of plates attached to the hollow, elongated frame. Each plate can be positioned over at least one of the openings such that the plate and the at least one curved wall of the at least one opening define at least one elongated outlet. Air flow directed through the at least one elongated outlet can be configured to flow circumferentially around at least a portion of an outer surface of at least one of the plurality of plates.

[0008] In some embodiments, the plurality of openings may be arranged circumferentially around the hollow elongated frame and longitudinally along the hollow elongated frame. In other embodiments, the openings in a first row may be rotationally offset from the openings in a second row. The first row may be longitudinally adjacent to the second row along the hollow elongated frame. In some embodiments, each opening may include two or more outlets adjacent to at least the curved wall. The two or more outlets may be configured to convey air across at least one curved wall and through at least one elongated outlet. In other embodiments, adjacent outlets of the two or more outlets may be circumferentially offset from each other within each opening.

[0009] In some embodiments, each plate may include an attachment hook on its inner surface. The attachment hook may be configured to mate with at least one curved wall of each opening. In other embodiments, each plate may be positioned over at least one of the openings via one or more ridges protruding from the inner surface of each plate. The one or more ridges may be configured to maintain a gap between the hollow elongated frame and each plate. In some embodiments, the height of the gap may correspond to the height of the at least one elongated outlet. In other embodiments, the multiple plates may include multiple plate pairs. Each plate pair may include a first plate and a second plate, where the second plate is circumferentially offset from the first plate.

[0010] In some embodiments, the hair care accessory can include an appliance mating portion disposed at a first end and an end cap disposed at a second end opposite the first end. The appliance mating portion can be configured to removably couple the hollow elongated frame to the hair care appliance, and the end cap can comprise a heat-resistant material.

[0011] In another embodiment, a hair care accessory is provided having a hollow, elongated frame having a first plurality of outlets formed therein and an air inlet at a first end thereof. The hair care accessory can also include a plurality of rings disposed on the hollow, elongated frame and at least partially overlapping one another. Each ring can have a plurality of vanes formed on its inner surface. The vanes can be configured to receive fluid from the first plurality of outlets and direct the fluid through a second plurality of outlets formed between adjacent rings such that the fluid flows circumferentially around the outer surfaces of the plurality of rings.

[0012] In some embodiments, the hair care accessory can include at least one heating element disposed on at least one of the plurality of rings and the hollow, elongated frame. In other embodiments, each of the plurality of rings can have a first portion with an outer diameter greater than an outer diameter of the second portion. In some embodiments, the plurality of vanes can be helically shaped, with a first ring of the plurality of rings having helically shaped vanes oriented in a first rotational direction and a second ring of the plurality of rings having helically shaped vanes oriented in a second rotational direction opposite the first rotational direction. In other embodiments, the first ring can be disposed adjacent to a first end of the elongated, hollow frame. The first end includes an air inlet. In some embodiments, the plurality of vanes can extend at an angle between 5 and 45 degrees relative to a longitudinal axis of the hollow, elongated frame.

[0013] In other embodiments, the plurality of vanes can have a height configured to form a gap between the overlapping rings. The gap between each of the plurality of rings can define a second plurality of outlets. In some embodiments, the hair care device can also include an appliance mating portion disposed at one end of the hollow elongated frame. The appliance mating portion can be configured to couple the hollow elongated frame to the hair care device.

[0014] In another embodiment, a hair care accessory can include a hollow, elongated frame having a first end with an appliance mating portion and a second end. The hair care accessory can also include a first ring disposed on the hollow, elongated frame. The hair care accessory can further include a second ring disposed on the hollow, elongated frame, having a first end position above the second end of the first ring and spaced radially outward from the first ring such that a circumferential gap is formed between the first and second rings. The circumferential gap can include at least one first vane configured to circumferentially bypass fluid flowing from the hollow, elongated frame through the circumferential gap around the first ring.

[0015] In some embodiments, the hair care accessory can also include a third ring disposed on the hollow elongated frame, having a first end position above the second end of the second ring, and spaced radially outward from the second ring such that a second circumferential gap is formed between the second ring and the third ring. The second circumferential gap can include at least one second vane configured to circumferentially bypass fluid flowing through the second circumferential gap around the second ring. In other embodiments, the at least one first vane and the at least one second vane can be angled relative to the longitudinal axis to direct the fluid in the same circumferential direction.

[0016] In some embodiments, the hair care accessory may also include a base ring disposed around the hollow elongated frame. The base ring may be disposed between the first ring and the appliance fitting portion. In other embodiments, at least one third vane may be disposed between the base ring and the hollow elongated frame and configured to direct fluid flow in a circumferential direction. In other embodiments, the at least one third vane may be configured to direct fluid flow in a first direction, and at least one of the first and second vanes may be configured to direct fluid flow in a second direction opposite the first direction.

[0017] In some embodiments, the hollow elongated frame can include a first portion adjacent the device fitting having a plurality of first openings therein and a second portion extending from the first portion having a plurality of second openings therein, the second plurality of openings being different in shape than the first plurality of openings. In other embodiments, the second plurality of openings can include a first set of openings longitudinally disposed along the hollow elongated frame and a second set of openings longitudinally disposed along the hollow elongated frame. In some embodiments, the first set of openings can be configured to divert fluid flow from the hollow elongated frame to the circumferential gap via the at least one first vane.

[0018] In other embodiments, a portion of the second set of openings can be located between annular frame elements located along the length of the hollow elongate frame. In some embodiments, the annular frame element can include a channel on an outer surface thereof, and a tab of at least one of the first, second, or third rings is received in the channel to secure at least one of the first, second, or third rings to the hollow elongate frame, the tab protruding from an inner surface of at least one of the first, second, or third rings.

[0019] In another embodiment, a hair care accessory is provided having an elongated hollow frame with a fluid flow path extending through the elongated hollow frame between an air inlet and a first plurality of outlets spaced circumferentially around and longitudinally along the elongated hollow frame. The hair care accessory can also include a plurality of elongated plates disposed on the elongated hollow frame and having a second plurality of outlets aligned with the first plurality of outlets. The second plurality of outlets can be configured to bypass fluid flowing along the fluid flow path in a circumferential direction around the plurality of elongated plates. The hair care accessory can further include an elongated hollow cover disposed over the elongated hollow frame and having a plurality of openings aligned with the first and second plurality of outlets.

[0020] In some embodiments, the elongated hollow cover may include a unitary cylindrical body. In other embodiments, the multiple openings may be arranged horizontally and vertically on the elongated hollow cover. In some embodiments, the hair care appliance may also include an appliance mating portion adjacent to the air inlet and configured to couple the elongated hollow frame to the hair care appliance. In other embodiments, the multiple openings in the elongated hollow cover may extend in multiple longitudinally spaced rows along the elongated hollow cover, and the multiple columns may be circumferentially spaced around the elongated hollow cover. In some embodiments, the second multiple outlets may include multiple pairs of outlets longitudinally spaced along the multiple elongated plates. Each pair of outlets may be separated by a vane.

[0021] In other embodiments, the elongated hollow frame can include a first end adjacent the air inlet and a second end. The plurality of outlet pairs can include a first pair of outlets having a first vane configured to direct the airflow toward the second end and a second pair of outlets having a second vane configured to direct the airflow toward the first end. In some embodiments, the first pair of outlets can be disposed adjacent the first end. In other embodiments, each of the second plurality of outlets can be defined by first and second radially offset walls defining a longitudinal slot therebetween. In some embodiments, each elongated plate can include first and second longitudinally extending rails spaced a distance from each other. The first and second radially offset walls of each of the second plurality of outlets can form a bridge element extending between the first and second rails. In other embodiments, the elongated hollow frame can include a plurality of circumferentially spaced ridges therearound. The plurality of ridges may extend longitudinally along the elongated hollow frame adjacent the second plurality of outlets in the plurality of plates.

[0022] In some embodiments, each ridge can have an angled surface for directing fluid through the second plurality of outlets. In other embodiments, the outer cover can include at least one conduit extending through the outer cover having a heating element therein. In some embodiments, the hair care accessory can further include an electrical connector adjacent the air inlet and configured to electrically couple to the hair care device and carry power from the hair care device to the heating element in the at least one conduit.

[0023] In another embodiment, a hair care accessory is provided having a hollow cylindrical body with a plurality of rows of outlets spaced longitudinally between its first and second ends. The hair care accessory can also include a cylindrical cover disposed over the hollow cylindrical body and having a plurality of rows of openings spaced longitudinally between its first and second ends. The rows of openings can at least partially overlap the rows of outlets. The hair care accessory can further include a plurality of plates disposed between the hollow cylindrical body and the cylindrical cover. The plurality of plates can have bypass openings therein and are configured to direct airflow circumferentially around the cylindrical cover from the rows of outlets through the rows of openings.

[0024] In some embodiments, the hair care accessory can include at least one heater between the cylindrical cover and the hollow cylindrical body configured to heat hair wrapped around the cylindrical cover. In other embodiments, the bypass openings can be defined by first and second radially offset plates defining a slot therebetween. In some embodiments, each bypass opening can include a pair of openings separated by a vane. In other embodiments, a first vane of a first bypass opening of the plurality of bypass openings can be angled to direct airflow toward a first end of the cylindrical cover, and a second vane of a second bypass opening of the plurality of bypass openings can be angled to direct airflow toward a second end of the cylindrical cover. In some embodiments, the hair care accessory can also include a mating portion at the first end of the hollow cylindrical body configured to mate with a hair care appliance.

[0025] In another embodiment, a hair care accessory can include an elongated body having an outer wall forming a heated hair-contacting surface. The hair care accessory can also include at least one heater assembly disposed within the body. The at least one heater assembly can include at least one heating element disposed adjacent to the outer wall, a pressure plate disposed adjacent to the at least one heating element, and a protective sheet extending over at least a portion of the pressure plate.

[0026] In some embodiments, the pressure plate can include a first surface adjacent to the at least one heating element and a second surface opposite the first surface. The second surface can be adjacent to a protective sheet. In other embodiments, the pressure plate can include at least one force-transmitting element disposed on the second surface and configured to maintain the pressure plate adjacent to the at least one heating element. In other embodiments, the at least one force-transmitting element can include a compression spring. In some embodiments, the at least one heating element can include a polyimide film. In other embodiments, the protective sheet can include a mica material. In some embodiments, the elongated body can include an electrical connector configured to power the at least one heater assembly via power received from the hair care device. In other embodiments, the elongated body can include a lumen configured to receive a fluid flow from the hair care device through an air inlet at a proximal end of the body.

[0027] In another embodiment, the heater assembly can include a wall having an inner surface and an outer surface, a heating element disposed adjacent to the inner surface of the wall, a plate disposed adjacent to the heating element and configured to maintain the heating element in contact with the inner surface of the wall, and a power source configured to provide power to the heating element.

[0028] In some embodiments, the exterior surface of the wall can include a heated, hair-contacting surface of the hair care device or hair device accessory. In other embodiments, the plate can be configured to maintain the heating element in contact with the interior surface of the wall via one or more springs disposed between the plate and the wall of the housing of the hair care device or hair device accessory. In some embodiments, the plate can be configured to maintain the heating element in contact with the interior surface of the housing via a pressure fit of the heater assembly into the housing of the hair care device or hair device accessory. In other embodiments, the heater assembly can also include a mica sheet abutting the pressure plate.

[0029] In another embodiment, a hair curling accessory is provided having a hollow, elongated frame with a plurality of plates circumferentially disposed around the hollow, elongated frame. The plurality of plates may form an outlet therebetween. The hair curling accessory may also include a heater assembly including a ring having an inner wall forming an opening in the ring, an outer wall opposite the inner wall, and a plurality of elongated, flexible heating elements extending radially from the outer wall. The ring may be configured to be received over the hollow, elongated frame such that the plurality of elongated, flexible heating elements are disposed between the hollow, elongated frame and the plurality of plates.

[0030] In some embodiments, the plurality of elongated flexible heating elements can include a polyimide film. In other embodiments, the ring can include a non-heating material. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of elongated flexible heating elements can include wiring configured to transmit power to the respective element. Power can be supplied via a hair care appliance removably coupled to the hair curler accessory.

[0031] These and other features will be more readily understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0032] [Figure 1A] 1 is a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a hair care accessory described herein. [Figure 1B] 1B is a side cross-sectional view of the hair care accessory of FIG. 1A. [Figure 2] 1B is a partially exploded side view of the hair care accessory of FIG. 1A, showing some plates removed. [Figure 3A] 1B is a side view of the frame of the hair care accessory of FIG. 1A. [Figure 3B] 3B shows a cross-sectional side view of the frame of FIG. 3A. [Figure 4] 1B is a side view of a plurality of plates configured on the hair care accessory of FIG. 1A. [Figure 5A] FIG. 5 is a front view of one of the plates of FIG. 4. [Figure 5B] FIG. 5B is a rear view of the plate of FIG. 5A. [Figure 6] 1B is a cross-sectional view of the hair care accessory of FIG. 1A showing fluid flow conveyed through its multiple outlets. [Figure 7] 1B is a detailed view of a portion of FIG. 6 showing fluid flow conveyed through the outlet of the hair care accessory of FIG. 1A. [Figure 8A] 1B is a cross-sectional view showing multiple plates of the hair care accessory of FIG. 1A configured in a first rotational orientation. [Figure 8B] 1B is a cross-sectional view showing the plates of the hair care accessory of FIG. 1A configured in a second rotational orientation. [Figure 9A] 1B is a fluid flow diagram illustrating the fluid flow paths provided through the outlet of the hair care accessory of FIG. 1A. [Figure 9B] 1B is a fluid flow diagram illustrating the fluid flow rate of the fluid stream provided through the outlet of the hair care accessory of FIG. 1A. [Figure 10A] FIG. 10 is a side view of another exemplary embodiment of a hair care accessory described herein. [Figure 10B] 10B is a side cross-sectional view of the hair care accessory of FIG. 10A. [Figure 11] 10B is a cross-sectional view of the hair care accessory of FIG. 10A with the frame removed. [Figure 12A] 10B is a perspective view of the ring frame of the hair care accessory of FIG. 10A. [Figure 12B] FIG. 12B is a perspective view of a ring configured for use with the ring frame of FIG. 12A. [Figure 13] FIG. 10B is a side view of the frame of the hair care accessory of FIG. 10A. [Figure 14A] 10B is a cross-sectional view of a plurality of vanes of the hair care accessory of FIG. 10A configured in a first rotational orientation. [Figure 14B] 10B is a cross-sectional view of a plurality of vanes of the hair care accessory of FIG. 10A configured in a second rotational orientation. [Figure 15A] FIG. 10 is a side view of another embodiment of a hair care accessory described herein. [Figure 15B] 15B is a side view of the hair care accessory of FIG. 15A with the electronics cover of the rings and frame removed. [Figure 16A] FIG. 15C is a side view of the hair care accessory of FIG. 15B with the multiple ring frames removed. [Figure 16B] FIG. 16B is a perspective view of the hair care accessory of FIG. 16A. [Figure 17A] 15B is a side view of the hair care accessory of FIG. 15A showing the frame and electrical contacts with the multiple ring frame, heating element, and rings removed. [Figure 17B] FIG. 17B is a side view of the hair care accessory of FIG. 17A with the frame removed. [Figure 18A] FIG. 15B is a front view of the frame of the hair care accessory of FIG. 15A. [Figure 18B] FIG. 15B is a rear view of the frame of the hair care accessory of FIG. 15A. [Figure 19A] 15B is a cross-sectional view of a ring of the frame of the hair care accessory of FIG. 15A. [Figure 19B] 15B is a perspective view of the ring of the hair care accessory of FIG. 15A. [Figure 20A] 15B is a fluid flow diagram illustrating the fluid flow paths provided through the outlet of the hair care accessory of FIG. 15A. [Figure 20B] 15B is a fluid flow diagram illustrating the fluid flow rate of the fluid stream provided through the outlet of the hair care accessory of FIG. 15A. [Figure 21A] FIG. 10 is a side view of another exemplary embodiment of a hair care accessory described herein. [Figure 21B] 21B is a side cross-sectional view of the hair care accessory of FIG. 21A. [Figure 22] FIG. 21B is an exploded view of the hair care accessory of FIG. 21A. [Figure 23A] 21B is a front perspective view of the plate of the hair care accessory of FIG. 21A. [Figure 23B]21B is a perspective view of the rear of the plate of the hair care accessory of FIG. 21A. [Figure 24] 21B is a cross-sectional view of the hair care accessory of FIG. 21A showing fluid flow conveyed through its multiple outlets. [Figure 25] 21B is a detailed view of a portion of FIG. 24 showing fluid flow conveyed through the outlet of the hair care accessory of FIG. 21A. [Figure 26] 21B is a fluid flow diagram illustrating the fluid flow paths provided through the outlet of the hair care accessory of FIG. 21A. [Figure 27] 1 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of a heater assembly configured for use with a hair care accessory described herein. [Figure 28] FIG. 10 is an exploded view of another exemplary embodiment of a heater assembly configured for use with a hair care accessory described herein. [Figure 29] FIG. 10 is a top view of another exemplary embodiment of a heater assembly configured for use with a hair care accessory described herein. [Figure 30A] 21B is a side view of another exemplary hair care accessory of FIG. 21A showing the heater assembly of FIG. 27 configured therein. [Figure 30B] FIG. 30B is a cross-sectional view of the hair care accessory of FIG. 30A. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0033] It should be noted that the drawings are not necessarily to scale. The drawings are intended to depict only typical aspects of the subject matter disclosed herein, and therefore should not be considered as limiting the scope of the present disclosure.

[0034] Various exemplary hair care accessories for use with hair care appliances are provided herein. Generally, the hair care appliances may be in the form of hair dryers having an air inlet and at least one air outlet, as well as various internal components that facilitate the use and operation of the hair care appliance, such as a fan, a motor, and a heater. Various accessories are provided for use with the hair care appliance, and the configuration of the appliance can vary based on the type of accessory that is mated to the hair care appliance. In some embodiments, the hair care accessories herein can also include a heating element.

[0035] The hair care accessories described herein can be configured to couple to a hair care device, for example as an attachment, and can be used to treat hair, including drying, curling, and / or otherwise styling the hair. The hair care accessories described herein include many advantageous features that can improve the delivery of fluid flow from the hair care accessories described herein. As a result, the hair care accessories described herein can improve drying and / or styling of hair compared to existing hair care accessories.

[0036] 1A-9B illustrate one exemplary embodiment of a hair care accessory 100 configured to couple with and receive fluid from a hair care appliance, such as a hair dryer. The illustrated hair care accessory 100 includes a frame 102 and a plurality of plates 101 disposed on the frame 102. The accessory 100 has a substantially elongated cylindrical shape extending between a first end 104 and a second end 105. At the first end 104, the frame 102 includes an appliance mating portion 110 having one or more slots 106 disposed about the periphery of the frame 102. The slots 106 may be configured to receive protrusions disposed on the accessory mating portion at the outlet end of the hair care appliance. The protrusions may be received within the channels 106 and rotatably advanced within the channels 106 to secure the hair care accessory 100 to the hair care appliance. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that various other mating mechanisms, including magnets or other fastening mechanisms, may be utilized. The second end 105 of the hair care accessory 100 may include an end cap 103 formed on or coupled to the frame 102, for example, via a screw 114 or similar attachment mechanism. The end cap 103 may include a protrusion 113. In some embodiments, a user can grip the protrusion 114 when using the hair care accessory 100 to dry and / or style hair. In some embodiments, the end cap 103 may be formed from a heat-resistant material.

[0037] As described above, the hair care accessory 100 includes a plurality of plates 101, which in the illustrated embodiment are longitudinally disposed along a hollow, elongated frame 102 between a first end 104 and a second end 105 of the hair care accessory 100. The plates 101 can have a curved shape that can correspond to a portion of the circumference of the cylindrically shaped frame 102. The plurality of plates 101 can be arranged in a plurality of rows A-D along the length of the elongated frame 102. Each row can include a plurality of plates 101 arranged circumferentially around the elongated frame 102. While the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1A-4 includes four rows, e.g., rows A-D, in some embodiments, the hair care accessory 100 can have more or fewer rows, such as two, three, four, five, six, seven, or eight rows. Each row can correspond to a longitudinal portion of the elongated frame 102. For example, as shown in the cross-sectional view of Figure 1B, elongated frame 102 includes longitudinally offset portions A'-D' extending along the length of frame 102. Longitudinally offset portions A'-D' may be associated with rows A-D, as shown in Figure 2.

[0038] Adjacent rows of plates 101 may be separated by rings 107 disposed therebetween, as shown in FIGS. 1A-1B. For example, ring 107 may be disposed between rows B and C associated with frame portions B' and C'. Ring 107 may be located between any two rows and corresponding longitudinal portions of elongated frame 102. In some embodiments, hair care accessory 100 may not include rings 107.

[0039] As shown in FIG. 2, plates 101A and 101B have been removed from frame 102. As shown, plate 101A can include a pair of plate elements 101A' and 101A" which, in one embodiment, can be integrally formed as a single component, and plate 101B can include a pair of plate elements 101B' and 101B" which, in one embodiment, can also be integrally formed as a single component. Plate element 101A' can be rotationally or circumferentially offset from plate element 101A" relative to longitudinal axis Y of frame 102, and plate element 101B' can be rotationally or circumferentially offset from plate element 101B" relative to longitudinal axis Y of frame 102. In this manner, plate element 101A' can be coupled to frame 102 in longitudinal portion A', and plate element 101A" can be coupled to frame 102 in longitudinal portion B'. Similarly, plate element 101B' can be coupled to frame 102 in longitudinal portion C', and plate element 101B" can be coupled to frame 102 in longitudinal portion D'. In some embodiments, multiple plates 101 arranged in a row can include a gasket 115 configured to maintain the plates 101 coupled to the frame 102.

[0040] The plurality of outlets 109 may extend longitudinally along an edge of each of the plurality of plates 101, as shown in FIGS. 1A-1B and 2. The plurality of outlets 109 are shown circled in FIGS. 1B and 2 and may be fluidly coupled to the plurality of outlets 112 of the frame 102, as described in more detail below. A fluid flow to be supplied to an outlet of a hair care device to which the hair care accessory 100 is coupled may be received at an inlet 108 disposed at the first end 104 of the frame 102. The received fluid flow may be conveyed through the lumen 111 of the elongated frame 102, through outlets configured in the plurality of outlets 112, and through the outlets 109 defined by the plates to provide a substantially circumferential fluid flow around and over the plurality of plates 101 to create a Coanda effect, as described in more detail below.

[0041] The multiple outlet groups 112 may be arranged circumferentially around the frame 102, with each outlet extending longitudinally along the frame 102, as shown by the circles in FIGS. 3A-3B. Each longitudinal portion of the elongated frame 102, such as longitudinal portions A', B', C', and D', may include multiple openings 116, each including a respective outlet group 112. In some embodiments, each longitudinal portion may include 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, or 8 openings 116 arranged circumferentially around the elongated frame 102. Thus, each longitudinal portion may include a number of outlet groups 112 corresponding to the number of openings 116. In some embodiments, one or more openings 116 may not include an outlet group 112.

[0042] The plurality of openings 116 in a first longitudinal portion may be rotationally and circumferentially offset from the plurality of openings 116 in an adjacent longitudinal portion. For example, in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3A-3B, each longitudinal portion of the elongated frame 102 includes six openings 116 disposed around the periphery of the frame 102. As shown in FIG. 3A, longitudinal portion A' includes openings 116A-1 and 116A-2, which are rotationally and circumferentially offset from the plurality of openings 116B-1 and 116B-2 in longitudinal portion B'. The plurality of openings 116B-1 and 116B-2 in longitudinal portion B' are rotationally and circumferentially offset from the plurality of openings 116C-1 and 116C-2 in longitudinal portion C'. The amount of rotational offset may vary.

[0043] The openings 116 may include curved walls 117 extending longitudinally along the frame 102. The curved walls 117 may be configured adjacent to each of the outlets 112 disposed within the openings 116. For example, as shown in FIG. 3A , opening 116A-1 in longitudinal portion A′ includes curved wall 117A-1. Similarly, in longitudinal portion B′, opening 116B-1 includes curved wall 117B-1, and in longitudinal portion C′, opening 116C-1 includes curved wall 117C-1, and opening 116C-2 includes curved wall 117C-2. The curved walls 117 may be disposed adjacent to the second edge 130 of each plate 101 such that multiple outlets 109 are disposed longitudinally therebetween, as shown in FIG. 6 . On the opposite side of the curved wall 117, each group of openings 116 may also include a shoulder 134 by which a protrusion 128 on the second surface 122 of each plate can couple the plate 101 to the frame 102, as shown in Figures 3A and 6.

[0044] A plurality of outlet groups 112 may be provided through the wall of the frame 102 to fluidly communicate with the lumen 111 of the frame 102, as shown in FIG. 3B. Each outlet group 112 may include one, two, three, or more outlets. For example, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 3B, the frame 102 includes a plurality of outlet groups 112, including three outlets shown as outlets 119A, 119B, and 119C of outlet group 112C disposed within longitudinal portion C'. Various outlet shapes may be envisioned, such as the rectangular shape shown in FIG. 3B. At least one outlet may be configured to couple the plate 101 to the frame 102.

[0045] The frame 102 may also include ribs 118 disposed on an inner surface 120 of the frame 102. The ribs 118 may be positioned to intersect with the plurality of outlets 112. In some embodiments, the ribs 118 may be positioned offset from the plurality of outlets 112. The ribs 118 may be configured to increase the longitudinal stiffness of the frame 102. The ribs 118 may also provide an engagement surface for a mating projection 128 on the plate 101, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7. A hook-shaped portion of the tab 128 or similar coupling mechanism may couple with the ribs 118 to secure the plate 101 to the frame 102.

[0046] The plurality of plates 101 can be configured to form a substantially cylindrical shape including plates 101 arranged in one or more rows A-D, as shown in FIG. 4, with portions of the frame 102 and the plurality of plates 101 removed. For example, plate 101A can be circumferentially disposed adjacent to plate 101C, and plate 101B can be circumferentially disposed adjacent to plate 101D. Plate 101A can include plate elements 101A' and 101A" that can be longitudinally circumferentially offset from one another. Plate 101A can extend between rows A and B, such that plate element 101A' is disposed in row A and plate element 101A" is disposed in row B. Plate 101B can similarly extend between rows C and D, such that plate element 101B' is disposed in row C and plate element 101B" is disposed in row D.

[0047] The plurality of outlet groups 109 may be disposed between adjacent edges of circumferentially adjacent plate elements to direct fluid flow provided through a first plurality of outlets 109 associated with a first plate element onto the upper surface of the adjacent plate element and circumferentially around the plate elements of a particular row. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, a plurality of outlet groups 109A' may be configured between plate elements 101A' and 101C', and a plurality of outlet groups 109B' may be configured between plate elements 101B' and 101D'.

[0048] The plate 101 may include several features configured to direct the fluid flow provided via the plurality of outlet groups 112 through the plurality of outlets 109. For example, as shown in FIGS. 5A-5B, the plate 101B (corresponding to the plate 101B of FIGS. 2 and 4) includes a substantially curved, non-planar surface profile and includes plate elements 101B' and 101B". Plate element 101B' includes a first end 131 of the plate 101B, and plate element 101B" includes a second end 132 of the plate 101B. The first end 131 may include one or more collar segments 123 extending longitudinally from a collar base 124 disposed circumferentially around the first end 131. The collar segments 123 may be separated by notches 133, as shown in FIG. 5B. The collar segments 123 may be configured to be received by the plate 101 and couple the plate 101 to an end cap 113 or a ring 107, as shown in FIG. 1B. As shown in FIG. 2, the gasket 115 can be configured to surround the collar segment 123 and secure the plate 101 to the frame 102 .

[0049] 5A and 5B, the second end 132 of the plate 101B may include a tab 125 that may be received within a cavity 136 configured around the periphery of a base collar 135 of the frame 102 shown in FIG. 3A. The tab 125 may also be received within a ring 107, as shown in FIG. 1B, to help secure the plate 101 to the frame 102 and prevent rotational displacement of the plate about the frame 102.

[0050] Plate 101B includes a first surface 121 and a second surface 122 opposite first surface 121. First surface 121 may be substantially smooth and may be a hair contact surface where a user can contact hair with hair care accessory 100 for drying and / or styling the hair. Second surface 122 may include features configured to divert fluid flow through the multiple outlets 109, maintain a spacing of plate 101 with frame 102 to provide fluid flow, and / or secure plate 101 to frame 102.

[0051] As shown in FIG. 5B , the second surface 122 of the plate 101B includes a plurality of vanes 126 extending between a first edge 129 and a second edge 130 of the plate elements 101B′ and 101B″. The depicted vanes 126 extend longitudinally along the second edge 130. The plurality of vanes 126 may be configured to divert fluid flow received from the plurality of outlets 112 to a plurality of outlets 109, such as outlet 109B′ of the plate 101B′ and outlet 109B″ of the plate element 101B″. The plurality of vanes 126 may vary in height along their length such that the vanes 126 may be shorter adjacent the second edge 130 and the plurality of outlets 109 and may increase in height as the vanes extend across the second surface 122 toward the first edge 129. The vane height H adjacent the second edge 129 may be V The vanes 126 may be configured to provide a fluid flow F at a velocity configured to create a Coanda effect of airflow in a circumferential direction around the hair care accessory 100. In some embodiments, one or more of the vanes 126 may have a height H that is configured to maintain a gap between the frame 102 and the plate 101A. S The vane 126 may include a spacing element 127 having a spacing element 127. The spacing element 127 may be located along the vane 126, such as at the end of the vane 126 opposite the outlet 109, as shown in FIG. 5B. In some embodiments, the spacing element 127 may not be located along the vane 126, but may be located on the second surface 122 separately from the vane 126.

[0052] The second surface 122 may also include a protrusion 128 extending therefrom. The protrusion 128 may include a hook or similar attachment mechanism configured to be received in an outlet 119 included in the plurality of outlets 112, such as outlet 119B shown in FIG. 3B . The protrusion 128 may be configured to secure a plate element of the plate 101 to the elongated frame 102. For example, as shown in FIG. 5B , plate elements 101B′ and 101B″ include a protrusion 128. The protrusions 128 of adjacent plate elements may be received in outlets 119 of outlets 112 configured in adjacent longitudinal portions of the frame 102. For example, the protrusions 128 configured on plate elements 101B′ and 101B″ may be received in outlets 119B and 119D shown in FIG. 3B to couple the plate 101B to the elongated frame 102 in longitudinal portions C′ and D′. Although the embodiments herein show a plurality of outlets 112 including three outlets 119 and a protrusion 128 received within the central outlet 119, other numbers of outlets 119 may be envisioned in the plurality of outlet groups 112, and the protrusion 128 may be received within any other outlet 119 of the plurality of outlet groups 112. In some embodiments, the protrusion 128 may be received within an opening in the frame 102 separate from the outlets 119 of the plurality of outlet groups 112. In other embodiments, other attachment techniques may be used to fit the plate to the frame.

[0053] As described above, the hair care accessory 100 can provide multiple fluid streams F through multiple outlets 109. As shown in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 6, the fluid stream F can be received at the inlet 108 and can pass through a lumen 111 of the frame 102 to a plurality of outlet groups 112 including individual outlets 119. The fluid stream F can pass through an individual outlet 119 of the outlet group 112 and can engage the second surface 122 of the plate 101 and be diverted through the plurality of outlets 109 via the vanes 126. The fluid stream F can flow circumferentially around the plate 101. A more detailed view of the fluid stream F through the plurality of outlets 109 can be seen in FIG. 7. The fluid stream F can pass from the lumen 111 into the outlet 119 and be diverted toward the plurality of outlets 109 by the second surface 122 and vanes 126 of the plate 101B′. The vanes 126 extend from a height H adjacent a first edge 130 of the plate 101B′, which may define an outlet height for the plurality of outlets 109. V It can have:

[0054] The plurality of plates 101 can be arranged circumferentially around the frame 102 in a first rotational direction R1 as shown in FIG. 8A or in a second rotational direction R2 as shown in FIG. 8B. The second rotational direction R2 can be, for example, a clockwise rotational direction, opposite to the first rotational direction R1, which is a counterclockwise direction. For example, as shown in FIG. 8A, the plates 101 can be arranged such that fluid flow is directed through the plurality of outlets 109 in a direction F corresponding to the first rotational direction R1. A 8B, in some embodiments, the plurality of plates 101 may be arranged on the frame 102 in a first rotational direction R1 such that fluid flow can be provided through the plurality of outlets 109 in a direction F corresponding to the second rotational direction R2. B The plate 101 may be arranged on the frame 102 in a second rotational direction R2 so as to provide a curling effect. Arrangement of the plate 101 in the first rotational direction R1 may facilitate forming or styling left-handed curls in the hair. Arrangement of the plate 101 in the first rotational direction R2 may facilitate forming or styling right-handed curls in the hair.

[0055] The hair care accessory 100 can advantageously provide a fluid flow therefrom to enhance drying and / or styling of hair. For example, as shown in Figures 9A and 9B, the hair care accessory 100 includes a plurality of plates 101 configured in a first rotational direction R1 as shown in the hair care accessory 100 of Figure 8A. As shown in Figure 9A, the fluid flow is directed in a direction F corresponding to the first rotational direction R1. A 9B , the hair care accessory 100 may be rotated in a direction F corresponding to the first rotation direction R1 at a constant speed in the circumferential direction around each of the rows A-D and in the longitudinal direction across each of the rows A-D. The fluid flow provided through the plurality of outlets 109 from rows A and D may be entrained toward the center of the hair care accessory 100 by the fluid flow provided through the plurality of outlets 109 configured in rows B and C. In this manner, while the fluid flow is provided in the circumferential direction along the entire length of the hair care accessory 100, a user can more easily bond their hair to the hair care accessory 100 by contacting the hair with the fluid flow provided at the center of the hair care accessory 100. As shown in FIG. 9B , the hair care accessory 100 rotates in a direction F corresponding to the first rotation direction R1 at a constant speed in the circumferential direction around each of the rows A-D and longitudinally across each of the rows A-D. A The nozzles may be configured to provide fluid flow within each of the rows A-D.

[0056] The arrangement of plates 101 on frame 102 can form a plenum chamber that can provide a positive pressure to airflow within frame 102 that can be maintained as the airflow is distributed along elongated members of accessory 100 to outlets 109. Outlets 109 can be formed between adjacent plates 101 by adjacent vanes 126 extending along surfaces 122 of plates 101 and can be sized to control backpressure within accessory 100 for even distribution of air to outlets 109. In some embodiments, the amount of backpressure provided to the plenum chamber can be approximately 2-4 KPa.

[0057] The embodiments of the hair care accessory 100 described herein provide several advantages. For example, the arrangement of the outlets 112 in the frame 102 and the multiple outlets 109 configured between the plates 101 can evenly distribute airflow within the plenum chamber and along the length of the accessory 100. The positive airflow pressure generated within the lumens 111 of the frame 102 and channeled through the outlets 109 can improve adhesion of hair to the accessory via the Coanda effect. As a result, the accessory can provide more efficient hair drying and styling with improved permanence of the applied style.

[0058] 10-14B illustrate another exemplary embodiment of a hair care accessory 200 configured to couple with and receive a fluid flow from a hair care appliance, such as a hair dryer. The illustrated hair care accessory 200 includes multiple rings 201, such as rings 201A-201F, which can be stacked on top of each other to form an elongated member having a first end 211 and a second end 212. In some embodiments, the multiple rings 201 can include 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or more rings. In some aspects, each ring 201 can have a substantially annular cylindrical shape with a lumen therein extending between the first end 213 and the second end 214 of the ring, as shown by example in FIG. 10A for ring 201E. However, the shape can vary, and the rings need not be circular in cross section. Other shapes, such as oval, elliptical, or any other geometric or irregular shape, are envisioned. In some embodiments, one or more of the rings 201 can have an inverted tulip shape. In the illustrated embodiment, the diameter of the first end 213 of the ring is smaller than the diameter of the second end 214 of the ring, allowing the first end of the ring to be received into the second end of an adjacent ring, thus allowing the rings to be stacked on top of each other, as shown in FIG. 2. In some embodiments, the second end 214 of the ring 201 can include multiple indentations 207 arranged around the circumference of the ring, as shown in ring 201A in FIG. 10A. The indentations 207 can be configured to guide fluid flow provided at the second end 214 of each ring onto an adjacent ring.

[0059] In one embodiment, multiple rings 201 may be coupled to or disposed on a hollow, elongated frame 202 to help secure the rings together. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B , the frame 202 includes a cylindrical base 216 having an air inlet 204 disposed in an opening in the base 216 and fluidly coupled to a lumen 210 of the frame 202. The frame 202 further includes an appliance mating portion 205 provided for coupling the hair care accessory 200 to a hair care device. In some embodiments, the appliance mating portion 205 may include one or more slots 206 or protrusions configured to engage with corresponding protrusions or slots on the hair care device. When the hair care accessory 200 is coupled to the hair care device, fluid flow provided through an outlet of the hair care device may be received at the air inlet 204 and conveyed through the frame 202 to multiple outlets 215 disposed longitudinally along the frame 202, as shown in FIG. 10B . The plurality of outlets 215 may be fluidly coupled to the plurality of outlets 208 formed in the second end 214 of the ring 201 .

[0060] The hair care accessory 200 may also include an end cap 203 at the second end 212 of the accessory 100. The end cap 203 may be coupled to a distal-most ring 201, such as ring 201A as shown in FIG. 10B. The end cap 203 may be configured to allow a user to grip the hair care accessory 200 while styling and / or drying hair. In some embodiments, the end cap 203 may include a heat-resistant material to allow a user to more easily manipulate the hair care accessory 200. The end cap 203 may be attached to the ring 201A via a friction fit, a snap fit, or the like. In some embodiments, the end cap 203 may be secured to the frame 202 via a screw 217 or similar attachment mechanism. As shown in FIG. 10B, the screw 217 securing the end cap 203 to the frame 202 may extend through the ring 201A.

[0061] At least one ring 201 may be coupled to the frame 202 via a ring frame 209. For example, the proximal-most ring 201F may be coupled to the frame 202 via a ring frame 209, as shown in FIG. 10B . The ring frame 209 may include one or more outlets 225 fluidly coupled to outlets 215 configured in a cylindrical housing 239 extending from a base 216 of the frame 202. The ring frame 209 may include vanes 220 oriented and arranged in different rotational directions, as shown by vanes 220A and 220B in FIG. 12A . In some embodiments, the ring 201F may include an arrangement of vanes 220A and / or 220B in addition to or in place of vanes 220A and / or 220B configured on the ring frame 209.

[0062] The first plurality of vanes 220A of the ring frame 209 can provide airflow F1 in an upward rotational direction. The ring frame 209 can also include a second plurality of vanes 220B arranged to provide airflow F2 in a downward rotational direction opposite the rotational direction of the vanes 220A arranged in the rings 201A-201E. The ring 201F can include a plurality of outlets 208 at a first end 213 through which the airflow F1 is provided in an upward rotational direction, directing the airflow F1 upward toward the adjacent ring 201E. The outlets 208 can be defined between the ring frame 209 and the ring 201F, each outlet being defined by the spacing between the ends of adjacent vanes 220A. The ring 201F can include a second plurality of outlets 208 at a second end 214 through which the airflow F2 is provided in a downward rotational direction, directing the airflow F2 downward toward the base 216 of the frame 202. The outlets 208 may be defined between the ring frame 209 and the ring 201F, with each outlet being defined by the spacing between the ends of adjacent vanes 220B. The ring 201F may also include a circumferential protrusion 227 extending around the inner surface 219 of the ring. The protrusion 227 may be received within a notch 228 formed on the outer surface 229 of the ring frame 209 at the location where the vanes 220A, 220B intersect, as shown in FIG. 12A.

[0063] Returning to FIG. 11 , a cross-sectional view of the hair care accessory 200 with the frame 202 removed is shown to show the multiple rings 201 in greater detail. As shown, the ring 201A includes an outer surface 218 and an inner surface 219 with multiple vanes 220 disposed thereon, with multiple outlets 208 defined between adjacent vanes 220 at the second end 214 of the ring 201A. The ring 201A may include a bottom wall 221 and a top wall 222 opposite the bottom wall at the first end 213 of the ring. A surface of the bottom wall 221 may include an attachment element 223, such as a cylindrical protrusion. The attachment element may be configured to receive a support element 224 or a portion extending from the frame 202, as shown in FIGS. 10B and 13 . A hole 226 may be defined through the top wall 222 and the bottom wall 221 of the ring 201A. A coupling mechanism 217, such as a screw or bolt as shown in FIG. 10A, can be received through the hole 226 and coupled to the support element 224 to provide structural rigidity to the hair care accessory 200 along its length.

[0064] As shown in FIGS. 10B-11 , one or more of the rings 201 can include multiple outlets 208 adjacent the second end 214. The outlets 208 can be disposed around the circumference of the second end 214 of the ring 201. In some embodiments, the outlets 208 can be disposed around the circumference of the first end 213 of the ring 201, such as ring 201F shown in FIG. 10B. A circumferential gap 241, shown in FIG. 11 , can extend around the ring 201 at the location of the outlets 208 where the first end 213 of a first ring, such as ring 201C, is configured within the second end 214 of an adjacent ring, such as ring 201B. The outlets 201 can be fluidly coupled to the inner lumen 210 and can deliver air to the surface of the hair care accessory 200. The stacking arrangement of rings 201 and the corresponding stacking arrangement of outlets 208 can promote tight contact of air exiting adjacent outlets 208 along the length of accessory 200, such that the airflow exiting outlet 208 of one ring 201 can be drawn further down accessory 200 by the airflow exiting outlet 208 of an adjacent ring 201. In one embodiment, the velocity of the air exiting outlet 208 can be 15-40 m / s at each of the multiple outlets 208.

[0065] The vanes 220 can be arranged on the inner surface 219 of the ring 201 in a first rotational direction R1 or a second rotational direction R2, where the first rotational direction is opposite to the second rotational direction, as shown in FIGS. 14A-14B . As a result of the rotational orientation of the vanes 220 on the inner surface 219 of the ring 201, the airflow F can be directed in an upward direction F1 or a downward direction F2 over the outer surface of the hair care accessory 200. For example, as shown in FIG. 14A , the rings 201A-201E include vanes 220 arranged in the first rotational direction R1 and configured to direct the airflow F2 downwardly from the plurality of outlets 208. In some embodiments, the ring frame 209 can include vanes 220A oriented in the first rotational direction R1 and vanes 220B arranged in a second rotational direction R2 opposite to the rotational direction of the vanes 220A, as shown in FIG. 12A . In some embodiments, ring 201F can include vanes 220A oriented in a first rotational direction R1 or vanes 220B positioned in a second rotational direction R2 opposite the rotational direction of vanes 220A. Vanes 220A can direct airflow F1 upwardly from multiple outlets 208 of ring 201F. In some embodiments, it can be advantageous to include vanes 220A, 220B to generate bidirectional airflow (e.g., F1 and F2) to prevent hair from wrapping around a hair care appliance to which accessory 200 is attached.

[0066] The vanes 220 may be disposed at an angle α relative to the longitudinal axis A of the ring 201, as shown in FIGS. 14A-14B. In some embodiments, the vanes 220 may be angled upward or downward at an angle between about 2 and 60 degrees; for example, the angle may be between about 5 and 45 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis A of the ring 201. The angle of the vanes 220 may advantageously increase adhesion of hair to the accessory 200. The angle and directional orientation of the vanes 220 on different rings 201 may provide airflow in different rotational directions along the length of the accessory 200. For example, as shown in FIGS. 11 and 14A-14B, rings 201A-201E include vanes oriented as shown by vane 220B in FIG. 12A and configured to provide airflow F2 in either a first rotational direction R1 or a second rotational direction R2. The rings 201A-201E direct the airflow F2 downward from the outlet 208 in the first or second rotational direction.

[0067] 11, ring 201 may include a tab 230 disposed on its inner surface 219 at first end 213 of the ring. Tab 230 may be received within a corresponding slot 231 or portion of frame 202 to secure the ring to frame 202 and prevent rotational movement of ring 201 relative to the frame. As shown in FIG. 10B, tab 230 of ring 201E can be seen received within slot 231 of frame 202.

[0068] The frame 202 may include a hollow elongated portion 238 extending from a cylindrical housing 239. The frame 202 may include a plurality of outlets 235 arranged circumferentially along the length of the hollow elongated portion 238, as shown in FIG. 13. The outlets 235 may be formed between longitudinal columns 236 and rows 237 arranged between the longitudinal columns 236. The outlets 235 may convey the fluid flow F through the frame 202 to the plurality of outlets 208.

[0069] The frame 202 may also include attachment features 231 and 234 configured to secure or maintain the ring 201 in position along the frame 202. For example, the frame 202 may include a plurality of slots 231 extending longitudinally along the frame 202. In some embodiments, the slots 231 may be arranged in rows 237. The slots 231 may be configured to receive tabs 230 configured on the ring 201. The frame may also include slots 234 adjacent the base 216 of the frame 202. The slots 234 may be configured to receive tabs 232 of the frame ring 209 shown in FIG. 12A . When the ring frame 209 is placed over the cylindrical housing 239, the tabs 232 are received within the slots 234 and a bottom edge 240 of the ring frame 209 abuts the flange 233, thereby longitudinally and rotationally securing the ring frame 209 in position on the cylindrical housing 239 of the frame 202.

[0070] The arrangement of rings 201 on frame 202 can form a plenum chamber that can provide a positive pressure to airflow within frame 202 that can be maintained as the airflow is distributed along the elongated members of accessory 200 to outlets 208. Outlets 208 can be formed in circumferential gaps 241 of adjacent rings 201 by adjacent vanes 220 extending around the circumference of rings 201 and can be sized to control backpressure within accessory 200 for even distribution of air to outlets 208. In some embodiments, the amount of backpressure provided to the plenum chamber can be approximately 2-4 KPa.

[0071] The embodiments of the hair care accessory 200 described herein provide several advantages. For example, the arrangement of the outlet 215 of the frame 202 and the multiple outlets 208 formed in the second end 214 of the ring 201 can evenly distribute airflow along the length of the accessory 200 within the plenum chamber. The positive airflow pressure generated within the lumen 210 of the frame 202 can improve adhesion of hair to the accessory via the Coanda effect. As a result, the accessory can provide more efficient hair drying and styling with improved permanence of the applied style.

[0072] In another embodiment, any of the hair care accessories disclosed herein can include a heating element. For example, hair care accessory 300 described herein can include one or more heating elements disposed therein, as shown in FIGS. 15A-17 and 19. Hair care accessory 300 can include the same features as hair care accessory 200 unless otherwise noted. As shown in FIG. 15A, hair care accessory 300 includes multiple rings 301 (rings 301A-301F) mounted on frame 302. In some aspects, each ring 301 can have a substantially annular cylindrical shape with a hollow lumen therein extending between first end 306 and second end 307 of the ring, as shown by example in FIG. 15A for ring 301C. However, the shape can vary, and rings need not be circular in cross section. Other shapes, such as oval, elliptical, or any other geometric or irregular shape, are envisioned. In some embodiments, one or more of rings 201 can have an inverted tulip shape.

[0073] The ring 301 may be configured on a ring frame 313 shown in FIG. 15B. The ring 301F may include a substantially cylindrical shape as shown in FIG. 15A and may correspond to the ring 201F described in connection with the embodiment of the hair care accessory 200 including the ring frame 209. The ring frame 353 may be coupled to the ring 301F and may include a plurality of outlets 354 and a plurality of vanes 355, 356 extending circumferentially around the ring frame 353, as shown in FIG. 16B. The vanes 355 may be configured to direct air flow F1 through the outlets 305 in a first rotational direction, upward along the length of the frame 302. The vanes 356 may be configured to direct air flow F2 through the outlets 305 in a second rotational direction, downward along the frame 302 via the vanes 356.

[0074] An end cap 303 can be attached to the frame 302, and an air inlet can be provided in the frame 302 to convey a fluid flow F to a plurality of outlets 305 formed in a second end 307 of the ring 301. The fluid flow F can be conveyed through the outlets 305 such that an air flow F1 can be provided in an upward rotational direction or an air flow F2 can be provided in a downward rotational direction.

[0075] The hair care accessory 300 may include a cover 308 configured on the frame 302. The cover 308 may be configured to cover a printed circuit board (PCB) 309 disposed on a cylindrical housing 310 of the frame 302, as shown in FIG. 15B. The PCB 309 may be communicatively coupled to a power source received from a hair care device to which the hair care accessory 300 is attached. The PCB 309 may be coupled to the power source via an electrical connector 311 connected to electrical contacts 312 configured on a proximal end 315 of the frame 302, as shown in FIG. 16B. When coupled to the hair care device, power may be received from the hair care device via the electrical contacts 312. Power may be carried from the PCB 309 via wiring W to multiple heating elements 314 (heating elements 314A-314D) configured on a ring frame 313 (ring frames 313A-313D), as shown in FIG. 15B, with the rings 301A-301F shown in FIG. 15A removed. The heating element 314 may be a flexible heating element including a metal wire or metal mesh embedded in an insulating layer, such as a polyimide material. The heating element 314 may be provided on one or more surfaces 316 of the ring frame 313. In this manner, the heating element 314 may transfer heat to the ring 301 to provide a heated hair-contacting surface against which the hair care accessory 300 may be used to dry and style hair.

[0076] The heating elements 314 may be communicatively coupled to wiring W and multiple bus bars 317, as shown in FIGS. 16A and 17A-17B. The bus bars 317 may be configured longitudinally along the frame 302 to electrically couple adjacent heating elements 314. For example, in FIG. 16A, the ring frames 313A and 313B shown in FIG. 15B have been removed for clarity. The heating elements 314A and 314B may be shown coupled to bus bars 317A and 317B. The bus bar 317A may be electrically coupled to an electrical connector 321, as shown in FIGS. 16A and 17A, which may convey power received via wiring W to the bus bar 317A and the heating elements 314A. As shown in FIGS. 17A and 17B, the bus bars 317 may be arranged in series to convey power received via wiring W through the electrical connector 321 and then to the heating elements 314. Each heating element 314 may be coupled to a bus bar 317 via multiple terminal leads 320, such as terminal leads 320A-320D shown in FIG. 17A, with the ring frame 313 removed, and in FIG. 17B, with the frame 302 also removed. The bus bars 317 may be secured to the frame 302 via multiple screws 319. A first end of one bus bar 317 may be secured to the frame 302 via a first screw of a first screw pair, and a second end of the bus bar 317 may be secured to the frame 302 via a second screw of a second longitudinally adjacent screw pair. For example, as shown in FIG. 16A, bus bar 317A may be secured to the frame 302 via a first screw 319-1 and a second screw 319-2.

[0077] Multiple thermal cutout (TCO) switches 318 may also be configured longitudinally along the frame 302, as shown in Figures 17A and 17B. One or more TCOs 318 may correspond to each heating element 314. The TCOs 318 may be configured to cut off power supplied to the heating element when the heating element overheats, and may function as a safety mechanism for the hair care accessory 300 to prevent burns or damage to the device.

[0078] 18A and 18B , the frame 302 may include one or more substantially flat surfaces 332 and one or more substantially curved surfaces 333 extending longitudinally along its length. The flat surfaces 332 and the curved surfaces 333 may be formed from columns 334 extending from a cylindrical housing 346 of the frame 302. Rows 335 may extend between the columns 334, and a plurality of outlets 336 may be configured longitudinally along the frame 302 between the columns 334 and the rows 335. The cylindrical housing 346 may also include a plurality of outlets 336 extending circumferentially therearound.

[0079] The at least one flat surface 332 may include a first plurality of channels 338 extending longitudinally along the frame 302. The channels 338 may be configured to receive the bus bars 317 shown in Figures 16A, 17A, and 17B. The channels 338 may include holes 340 therein configured to receive screws 319 that can couple the bus bars 317 to the frame 302 within the channels 338. The second plurality of channels 339 may also extend longitudinally along the frame 302. The channels 339 may be configured to receive the wires W and TCOs 318 shown in Figures 16A, 17A, and 17B therein and provide the wires W and TCOs 318 along the length of the frame 302.

[0080] At least one curved surface 333 may include a plurality of channels 337 formed in rows 335. The channels 337 may be oriented longitudinally along the frame 302 and within each row 335. The channels 337 may be configured to receive tabs 328 of the ring frame 313, shown in FIG. 19A , when the ring frame 313 is attached to the frame 302. The tabs 328 received within the channels 337 may prevent rotational displacement of the ring frame 313 about the frame 302. In some embodiments, the tabs 328 may include one or more protrusions extending from an inner surface 327 of the ring frame 313. As shown in FIGS. 19A and 19B , the ring frame 313 may include a first end 325 and a second end 326. The diameter of the first end 325 may be smaller than the diameter of the second end 326, such that the first end 325 of a first ring frame 313, such as 313D, can be received within the second end 326 of an adjacent ring frame 313, such as 313C, as shown in FIG. 16A.

[0081] The ring frame 313 can include a collar 329 extending circumferentially around the first end 325, and tabs 328 can be formed on the collar 329 on the inner surface 327 of the ring frame 313. The ring frame 313 can include a body 330 extending from the collar 329 toward the second end 326. The body 330 can include a frustoconical shape and can include a lumen 347 therein, as shown in FIG. 19A . The ring frame 313 can be assembled onto the frame 302 by inserting the frame 302 through the opening 349 in the second end 326, through the lumen 349, and through the opening 348 in the first end 325. The ring frame 313 can be rotated to align the tabs 328 to be received within the channels 337 of the elongated frame. The ring frame 313 can be secured to the frame by securing screws 319 in holes 340. The screw 319 can be provided through a hole 322 formed in a tab 324 protruding from a first end 325 of the ring frame 313, as shown in FIG. 19B. A hole 323 can be configured adjacent to the hole 322 for carrying the terminal lead 320 to the heating element 314.

[0082] In some aspects, each ring frame 313 can have a substantially annular cylindrical shape with a hollow lumen 349 therein extending between the first end 325 and the second end 326 of the ring frame 313, as shown in Figures 19A and 19B. However, the shape may vary, and the ring frames need not be circular in cross section. Other shapes, such as elliptical, oval, or any other geometric or irregular shape, are envisioned. In some embodiments, one or more of the ring frames 313 can have an inverted conical shape.

[0083] The ring frame 313 may include a plurality of vanes 331 formed on an inner surface 347 thereof. The plurality of vanes 331 may extend between a first end 325 and a second end 326 of the ring frame 313. A plurality of outlets 305 may be formed circumferentially around the second end 326. The outlets 305 may be fluidly coupled to the outlets 336 of the frame 302 to convey fluid flow received via the lumen 345 of the frame 302 to the lumen 349 of the ring frame 313, where it may engage the vanes 331 and exit through the outlets 305. The vanes 331 may be positioned in a first rotational direction or a second rotational direction opposite the first rotational direction, as described in connection with the hair care accessories 100 and 200 embodiments herein.

[0084] The frame 302 may include a frame base 342, shown in FIGS. 18A and 18B, which may be coupled to a frame receiver 341, shown in FIGS. 16A-17B. The frame base 342 may include tabs 343 that may be received in corresponding slots on the frame receiver, preventing rotation of the frame 302 relative to the frame receiver 341 when coupled. A frame support 350 may be configured on the frame receiver 341 and inserted into the lumen 345 when the frame 302 is coupled to the frame receiver 341. The frame support 350 may include a cylindrical body 351 that may be sized to correspond to the inner diameter of the cylindrical housing 346. The cylindrical body 351 may be coupled to the frame receiver 341 via longitudinal supports 352 extending from the frame receiver 341. The frame support 350 may provide rigidity to the elongated frame 302 when attached to the frame receiver 341.

[0085] Hair care accessories 200 and 300 can advantageously provide fluid flow therefrom to enhance drying and / or styling of hair. For example, as shown in Figures 20A and 20B, hair care accessories 200 and 300 include a plurality of rings 201 and 301 (including ring frames 313) configured in a first rotational direction R1 as shown in the ring frame 313 of hair care accessory 200 in Figure 14A and hair care accessory 300 in Figure 19A. As shown in Figure 20A, fluid flow is directed downward through outlets 205, 308 of rings 201A, 301A-201E, 301E in a downward rotational direction F1 corresponding to the first rotational direction R1 of vanes 220, 347. A The rings 201F and 301F (including the ring frame 353) can be rotated in a downward rotation direction F corresponding to the first rotation direction R1. A through outlets 205A, 308A and through outlets 205B, 308B in an upward rotation direction F B Advantageously, the fluid flow F A and F B The fluid flows can meet at or near the longitudinal midpoint of the hair care accessory 200, 300, as shown in Figure 20A. In this way, while fluid flow is provided circumferentially along the entire length of the hair care accessory 100, a user can more easily bond their hair to the hair care accessory 200, 300 by contacting their hair with the fluid flow provided at the center of the hair care accessory 200, 300. As shown in Figure 20B, the hair care accessory 200, 300 allows the fluid flow F to flow from the rings 201A, 301A-201F, 301F at a constant speed in the circumferential direction around the rings 201A, 301A-201F, 301F. A and F B The system may be configured to provide:

[0086] The arrangement of ring 301 and ring frame 313 on frame 302 can form a plenum chamber that can provide a positive pressure to airflow within the frame that can be maintained as the airflow is distributed along the elongated members of accessory 300 to outlets 305. Outlets 305 can be formed by adjacent vanes 331 that extend around surface 347 of ring frame 313 and can be sized to control backpressure within accessory 300 for even distribution of air to outlets 305. The amount of backpressure provided to the plenum chamber can be approximately 2-4 KPa.

[0087] The embodiments of the hair care accessory 300 described herein provide several advantages. For example, the arrangement of the outlet 336 of the frame 302 and the multiple outlets 305 configured in the ring frame 313 can evenly distribute airflow within the plenum chamber and along the length of the accessory 300. The positive airflow pressure generated by the chamber formed by the frame 302 and / or the elongated members formed by the multiple rings 301 and ring frame 313 can improve adhesion of hair to the accessory via the Coanda effect. As a result, the accessory can provide more efficient hair drying and styling with improved durability of the applied style.

[0088] 21A-26, a hair care accessory 400 can include an elongated body 401 configured on an elongated frame 402. The body 401 can include a cylindrical cover 404 and an end cap 403 coupled to a first end 419 of the cover 404. In some embodiments, the end cap 403 can be coupled to a first end 421 of the frame 402. The body 401 can also include a plurality of elongated plates 405 that can extend longitudinally between the frame 402 and the cover 404. The plates 405 can include a plurality of outlets 406 that can be configured in openings 407 in the cover 404. The outlets 406 can be fluidly coupled to air inlets 408 configured in a cylindrical base 414 of the frame 402. The cylindrical base 414 of the frame 402 can include an appliance mating portion 411 configured to couple the hair care accessory 400 to a hair care appliance, such as a hair dryer. The attachment mating portion 411 may include at least one channel 412 and at least one slot 413 configured to engage with corresponding protrusions configured on the attachment mating portion of the hair care device. The hair care accessory 400 may be rotatably secured to the hair care device via the attachment mating portion 411.

[0089] When coupled, the hair care device can provide a fluid flow to the hair care accessory 400 via the air outlet(s) of the hair care device. As shown in FIG. 21B , a fluid flow F can be received through the air inlet 408 and conveyed through a lumen 409 of the frame 402 toward a plurality of outlets 410. The outlets 410 can be configured to extend from a first surface 426 of the frame 402 adjacent the lumen 409, through the frame 402, to a second surface 427 of the frame 402, as shown in FIG. 22 . The outlets 410 can be fluidly coupled to outlets 406 configured on the plate 405 such that the fluid flow F can pass through the outlets 406 and 410 and be provided around the cover 404 for drying and / or styling the hair.

[0090] As shown in the exploded view of the hair care accessory 400 shown in FIG. 22 , the cover 404 can have a unitary construction and can include a plurality of apertures 407 extending between the inner surface 415 and the outer surface 416 of the cover. The apertures 407 can be arranged in rows extending longitudinally between a first end 419 and a second end 420 of the cover 404 and in rows extending circumferentially around the cover 404. While the apertures 407 are shown rectangular in shape, various aperture shapes are envisioned, and the shape of the apertures 407 is not limited to rectangular-shaped apertures 407. The cover 404 can include a lumen 418 therein. A plurality of conduits 417 can be configured to protrude from the inner surface 415 toward the lumen 418. The conduits 417 can extend longitudinally along the inner surface 415 and can be configured to hold a heating element 428 therein for heating the cover 404. In some embodiments, the cover 404 can include a metallic material or a thermally conductive material. In some embodiments, the cover 404 may include a coating on the second surface 416. The coating may include a metal, a ceramic, or a thermally conductive material.

[0091] The heating element 428 may be powered via a power source received via electrical contacts that may be configured within the cylindrical base 414 of the frame 402. The electrical contacts within the base 414 of the frame 402 may correspond to the electrical contacts 312 described with respect to the hair care accessory 300 and shown in FIG. 16B. When coupled to the hair care device, power may be received from the hair care device and conveyed to the heating element 428 by the electrical contacts.

[0092] The frame 402 may include a substantially cylindrical shape extending between a first end 421 and a second end 422. The frame 402 may include one or more flat surfaces 425 configured on an outer surface 427 of the frame. The flat surfaces 425 may extend longitudinally along the length of the frame 402. The flat surfaces 425 may be configured to receive the conduit 417 therein when the cover 404 is assembled on the frame 402. The frame 402 may also include radially offset walls 429 extending longitudinally along the frame 402. The walls 429 may form a longitudinal slot 430 therebetween. The multiple outlets 410 may be configured within the slot 430. While the multiple outlets 410 are shown as a group of three individual outlets 431A-431C, other numbers of individual outlets may be envisioned, such as a single individual outlet 431 or pairs of individual outlets 431. Similarly, although the plurality of outlets 410 are shown in groups of six extending longitudinally within the slot 430, in some embodiments, more or fewer groups of outlets 410 can be configured within the slot 430. The individual outlets 431 can have other shapes other than the rectangular outlets 431 shown in Figure 22. For example, in some embodiments, the outlets 431 can include circular, oval, triangular, or linear outlets.

[0093] The frame 402 may also include a plurality of ridges 424, e.g., ridges 424A-424D, which may be circumferentially spaced about a second surface 427 of the frame 402. The ridges 424 may extend longitudinally along the second surface 427 of the frame 402 between the first end 421 and the second end 422 of the frame 402. The ridges 424 may be located adjacent to the plurality of outlets 410. At least one radially offset wall 429 may form a portion of at least one ridge 424. The ridges 424 may be configured to mate with slots 423 formed on the first surface 433 of the plate 405. For example, the ridge 424A may be seated within the slot 423A to couple the plate 405A to the frame 402. The plate 405 can be sized such that the first end 435 is flush or substantially flush with the first end 421 of the frame 402 and the second end 436 of the plate 405 can abut a collar 437 configured on the second end 422 of the frame 402. When the plate 405 is attached to the frame 402, the plurality of outlets 406 can be aligned with and fluidly coupled to the plurality of outlets 410 to convey a fluid flow F through the plurality of outlets 406 and the plurality of outlets 410. In some embodiments, the frame 402 can include a flanged skirt 444 extending between the collar 437 and a shoulder 454 configured on the cylindrical base 414 of the frame 402, as shown in FIGS. 22 and 30A . The flanged skirt 444 can extend around the frame 402 adjacent the cylindrical base 414 and can have a substantially frustoconical profile.

[0094] Assembling the hair care accessory 400 can include placing the plate 405 within the lumen 418 of the cover 404 and aligning the plurality of outlets 406 with the plurality of openings 407. The plate 405 can be pressed radially toward the first surface 415 of the cover 404 so that the plurality of outlets 406 are received within the plurality of openings 407. The plate 405 with the cover 404 attached thereto can then be coupled to the frame 402 by aligning the slots 423 with the ridges 424 and sliding the cover 404 with the attached plate 405 over the first end 421 of the frame 402 and down the length of the frame 402 until the second end 420 of the cover 404 with the plate 405 disposed therein abuts the collar 437.

[0095] The plate 405 can be seen in more detail in FIG. 23A , which shows a first side 434 of the plate 405, and FIG. 23B , which shows a second side 433 of the plate 405. The plate 405 includes a plurality of outlets 406A-406F arranged longitudinally along the plate 405. As shown in FIG. 23A , the plurality of outlets 406 can be formed on a bridge element 439 extending between opposing longitudinal rails 438. A plurality of openings 442 can extend between the opposing rails 438 and can be arranged longitudinally along the plate 405 between adjacent bridge elements 439. Each bridge element 439 can include a first wall 445 extending from the rail 438 and radially offset from a second wall 446 extending from the opposing rail 438. A longitudinal slot 443 can be located between the radially offset walls 445 and 446. The longitudinal slots 443 can correspond to individual outlets of pairs of outlets included in the plurality of outlets 406. In some embodiments, the plurality of outlets 406 may not include outlet pairs, but may include any number of individual slots 443 distributed longitudinally along the plate 405 as outlets 406 .

[0096] The longitudinal slots 443 may be separated by vanes 441. For example, as shown in FIG. 23A , outlet 406C may include slots 443A and 443B, which may be separated by vanes 441A. Thus, the individual outlets (e.g., slots 443A and 443B) of outlet 406C may be separated by vanes 441A having a first orientation. Similarly, the individual outlets (e.g., slots 443C and 443D) of outlet 406F may be separated by vanes 441B having a second orientation different from the orientation of vanes 441A. In some embodiments, the first orientation of vanes 441 may be toward the second end 436 of plate 405 and, therefore, toward the second end 422 of frame 402 when plate 405 is coupled to the frame. This first orientation can be seen in vanes 441A of outlet 406C. Vane 441A may be configured to direct fluid flow F in a downward direction along body 401. In some embodiments, the second orientation of the vanes 441 can be toward the first end 435 of the plate 405, and thus toward the first end 421 of the frame 402 when the plate 405 is coupled to the frame. This second orientation can be seen in the vanes 441B of the outlet 406F. The vanes 441B can be configured to direct the fluid flow F in an upward direction along the body 401. Non-limiting arrangements of vane 441 orientations can be envisioned within the outlet 406. Advantageously, the vanes 441 can be configured within the outlet 406 to focus the fluid flow F toward a midpoint of the body 401 of the hair care accessory 400.

[0097] 24 , a cross-sectional view of the hair care accessory 400 is shown illustrating that fluid flow F received through the lumen 418 of the frame 402 is diverted circumferentially around the body 401 through the outlet 406. The fluid flow F may be diverted into the outlet 431 and into the bridge element 439. The fluid flow F may be diverted out of the outlet 406 through the slot 443 by the curved surface 449 of the wall 445 of the plate 405 and wrapped around the body 401 of the hair accessory 400.

[0098] In a more detailed view shown in FIG. 25 , fluid flow F may be diverted by curved portion 449 of wall 445 into channel 452 formed between surface 451 of wall 445 and surface 450 of ridge 424. Surface 450 of ridge 424 may have a sloped or curved profile, as shown in FIGS. 24 and 25 . Fluid flow F may pass through channel 452 and exit through slot 443 in outlet 406. Slot 443 may be formed between radially offset walls 445 and 446 of plate 405. Wall 446 may include angled surface 453 configured to guide fluid flow F through outlet 406 such that the fluid flow adheres to surface 416 of cover 404 and wraps circumferentially around cover 404.

[0099] The resulting fluid flow F provided through the outlets 406 is illustrated in Figure 26, which shows the orientation of the vanes 441 and their placement along the body 401. The outlets 406A-406E provide the fluid flow F. A 23A to direct the fluid flow F substantially downward along the body 401. The outlet 406F may include vanes 441A oriented in a first orientation as described in connection with FIG. 23A to direct the fluid flow F substantially downward along the body 401. The outlet 406F may include vanes 441B oriented in a second orientation opposite the first orientation. The vanes 441B may B The fluid flow F can be configured to be directed substantially upward along the body 401. A and F B may combine to form a resultant fluid flow F that is provided circumferentially around the center of the body 401 (e.g., at locations corresponding to the outlets 406C-406D). C A portion of the air may be entrained upwardly toward the center of the body 401 even though the outlet 406E is configured with vanes 441A oriented in the first direction.

[0100] The arrangement of plate 405 on frame 402 can form a plenum chamber that can provide a positive pressure to airflow within frame 402 that can be maintained as the airflow is distributed along the elongated member of accessory 400 to outlets 406. Outlets 406 can be formed as longitudinal slots 442 between adjacent radially offset walls 445 by vanes 441 separating slots 443 in bridge elements 439 extending along plate 405 and can be sized to control backpressure within accessory 400 for even distribution of air to outlets 406. The amount of backpressure provided to the plenum chamber can be approximately 2-4 KPa.

[0101] The embodiments of the hair care accessory 400 described herein provide several advantages. For example, the arrangement of the outlet 410 in the frame 402 and the multiple outlets 406 in the plate 405 can evenly distribute airflow within the plenum chamber and along the length of the accessory 400. The positive airflow pressure generated by the chamber formed by the frame 402 and / or the plate 405 disposed on the frame 402 can improve adhesion of hair to the accessory via the Coanda effect. As a result, the accessory can provide more efficient hair drying and styling with improved durability of the applied style.

[0102] In some embodiments, the hair care accessories described herein can include a heater assembly disposed within the body of the hair care accessory. For example, the heating element 313 described in connection with hair care accessory 300 can include a heater assembly described herein. Additionally, or alternatively, the heating element 428 can include a heater assembly described herein. An exemplary embodiment of a heater assembly 500 is illustrated in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 27. The heater assembly 500 can include an outer wall 501, a heating element 502, a pressure plate 503, and a protective sheet 504 arranged in a laminated configuration as shown in FIG. 27. In some embodiments, the heater assembly 500 can exclude the pressure plate 503 and / or the protective sheet 504.

[0103] In some embodiments, the outer wall 501 can comprise a portion of the ring 301 or the cover 404. The outer wall 501 can comprise a hair-contacting surface 501A. In some embodiments, the hair-contacting surface 501A can comprise a metal, ceramic, or thermally conductive material. In some embodiments, the hair-contacting surface 501A can comprise a coating having a metal, ceramic, or thermally conductive material therein.

[0104] The heating element 502 may comprise a thin film flexible heating element configured between the outer wall 501 and the pressure plate 503. The heating element 502 may comprise a conductive wire or similar heating element configured in a resin or plastic substrate such as a polyimide film. The heating element 502 may have an operating range of 0-205°C. Advantageously, the heating element 502 may be configured in different ways depending on the flexible substrate.

[0105] The heater assembly 500 may also include a pressure plate 503 adjacent to the heating element 502. The pressure plate 503 may be configured to maintain the heating element in contact with the outer wall 501 so that a maximum amount of thermal energy generated by the heating element 502 can be delivered to (and / or through) the outer wall 501 to the hair contacting surface 501A. In some embodiments, the pressure plate 503 may include one or more force transmission elements configured to maintain the pressure plate 503 against the heating element 502. In some embodiments, the force transmission elements may include compression springs.

[0106] The heater assembly 500 may also include a protective sheet 504. In some embodiments, the protective sheet 504 may include a mica material. The protective sheet 504 may be provided between the pressure plate 503 and an adjacent surface, such as the ring frame 313 or the wall of the conduit 417, to protect the heater assembly 500.

[0107] Another embodiment of heater assembly 600 is shown in the perspective view of FIG. 28 . Heater assembly 600 may correspond to heater assembly 500 unless otherwise noted. Heater assembly 600 may include an outer wall 601 that may include a hair-contacting surface 601A. A recess 601B may be formed opposite hair-contacting surface 601A. Recess 601B may be configured and sized to receive a heating element 602 therein. Heating element 602 may be coupled to a power source PS via an electrical connector 607 and wiring W. Power source PS may be provided through a hair care device to which a hair care accessory including heater assembly 600 may be coupled. In some embodiments, electrical connector 607 may correspond to electrical connector 312 or 321 described herein with respect to hair care accessory 300. As further shown, pressure plate 603 may include a protective sheet 604 and a plurality of compression springs 605. The protective sheet 604 may include a notch 606 extending therethrough to allow for coupling of the compression spring 605 to the pressure plate 603 .

[0108] Another embodiment of heater assembly 700 is shown in the top view of FIG. 29. Heater assembly 700 may correspond to heater assemblies 500 and 500 unless otherwise noted. Heater assembly 700 may include multiple heating elements 701 coupled to a ring 702 having an opening 704, an inner wall 706, and an outer wall 705. In some embodiments, ring 702 may include a non-heating material. Opening 704 in ring 702 may be received on an end of a frame of a hair care accessory described herein. The end of the frame may correspond to an end of the frame opposite the end of the frame including an air inlet configured therein. With opening 704 coupled to the end of the frame, heating elements 701A and 701B may be folded to be disposed between the frame and the outer wall of hair care accessory 100-400 described herein. The outer wall may correspond to the plate 101, ring 301, ring frame 313, or cover 404 of the hair care accessories 100-400 described herein.

[0109] Heating elements 701A and 701B can be coupled to a power source PS via electrical connectors 703A and 703B and wiring W. The power source PS can be provided through a hair care device to which a hair care accessory including heater assembly 700 can be coupled. In some embodiments, electrical connectors 703A and 703B can correspond to electrical connectors 312 or 321 described herein with respect to hair care accessory 300.

[0110] As shown in FIGS. 30A and 30B , the heater assembly 500 can be configured on or within the hair care accessory 400 described in connection with FIGS. 21A-26 . For example, in FIG. 30A , the cover 404 has been removed for clarity to show the arrangement of the heating elements 502 extending longitudinally along the frame 402 of the hair care accessory 400 between its first end 421 and second end 422. In some embodiments, the heating elements 502 can be longitudinally spaced along the frame 402 such that multiple heating elements 502 extend longitudinally at a given circumferential position on the frame 402. The heating elements 502 can be circumferentially positioned on the frame 402 adjacent the plate 405. In this manner, the heating elements 502 can advantageously heat the fluid flow F provided through the outlet 406 by positioning the heating elements 502 adjacent to the fluid flow F exiting the outlet 406.

[0111] Several heater assemblies 500 can be positioned circumferentially around the frame 402. For example, as shown in FIG. 30B , the hair care accessory 400 can include four heater assemblies 500 configured on the frame 402. In some embodiments, two, three, four, five, six, seven, or eight heater assemblies 500 can be configured on the hair care accessory 400. The heater assemblies 500 can be configured on the frame 402 such that a protective sheet 504 can be positioned adjacent to the frame 402 and the pressure plate 503. The heating element 502 can be configured radially adjacent to the pressure plate 503 such that the heating element 502 is configured between the pressure plate 503 and the cover 404. The cover 404 can form an outer wall 501 of the heater assembly 500. The outer surface of the cover 404 can be a hair-contacting surface 501A that can be heated by the heating element 502 for drying and / or styling hair.

[0112] The embodiments of the heating assemblies 500, 600, and 700 described herein provide several advantages. For example, the thin and flexible configuration of the heating elements 502, 602, and 701 can enable their use in a variety of low-volume spaces where conventional heating elements, such as Cal rods, may not be able to be placed due to their size and rigid structure. As a result, the heating elements described herein can be more easily positioned adjacent to the hair-contacting surfaces of the accessories described herein. This can improve the transfer of heat to the surface of the ring 201 or cover 404 for heating, drying, and styling hair.

[0113] Certain exemplary embodiments have been described to provide a general understanding of the principles of the structure, function, manufacture, and use of the systems, devices, and methods disclosed herein. One or more examples of these embodiments are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Those skilled in the art will understand that the systems, devices, and methods specifically described herein and illustrated in the accompanying drawings are non-limiting exemplary embodiments, and that the scope of the present invention is defined only by the claims. Features illustrated or described in connection with one exemplary embodiment may be combined with features of other embodiments. Such modifications and variations are intended to be within the scope of the present invention. Furthermore, in this disclosure, like-named components of embodiments generally have similar features, and therefore, within a particular embodiment, each feature of each like-named component is not necessarily described in full detail.

[0114] As used herein throughout the specification and claims, approximation language may be applied to modify any quantitative expression that may vary within acceptable limits without resulting in a change in the relevant basic function. Thus, values ​​modified by terms such as "about," "approximately," and "substantially" should not be limited to the exact value specified. In at least some instances, approximation language may correspond to the precision of an instrument for measuring the value. Herein and throughout the specification and claims, range limitations may be combined and / or interchanged, and such ranges include all subranges identified and contained therein, unless the context or language indicates otherwise.

[0115] Those skilled in the art will appreciate further features and advantages of the present invention based on the above-described embodiments. Accordingly, the present application is not to be limited by what has been particularly shown and described, except as indicated by the appended claims. All publications and references mentioned herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety.

Claims

1. an elongate frame having a longitudinal axis and an inner lumen extending through the elongate frame along the longitudinal axis; a plurality of plates disposed on the elongated frame, the plurality of plates including a first row of plates spaced circumferentially around a first longitudinal portion of the elongated frame and at least one second row of plates spaced circumferentially around a second longitudinal portion of the elongated frame, each plate in the first row of plates defining a first longitudinally extending outlet and each plate in the second row of plates defining a second longitudinally extending outlet, the second longitudinally extending outlets being circumferentially offset from the first longitudinally extending outlets; A hair care accessory comprising:

2. The hair care accessory of claim 1 , wherein the elongate frame includes a plurality of groups of outlets spaced circumferentially around the elongate frame at the first and second longitudinal portions of the elongate frame.

3. 3. The hair care accessory of claim 2, wherein a first plurality of groups of outlets in the first longitudinal portion of the elongate frame are circumferentially offset from a second plurality of groups of outlets in the second longitudinal portion of the elongate frame.

4. 3. The hair care accessory of claim 2, wherein the plurality of outlets of the elongate frame are fluidly coupled to the inner lumen of the elongate frame and are configured to direct air from the inner lumen of the elongate frame through the first and second longitudinally extending outlets.

5. The hair care accessory of claim 2 , wherein one group of the plurality of groups of outlets comprises two or more outlets, the two or more outlets being circumferentially offset from one another.

6. The hair care accessory of claim 2 , wherein the first and second longitudinally extending outlets are configured to convey air circumferentially around the first and second rows of plates, respectively.

7. 2. The hair care accessory of claim 1, wherein the plates of the first and second rows of plates include an inner surface adjacent the elongated frame, the inner surface including a plurality of vanes adjacent the first and second longitudinally extending outlets and projecting toward the elongated frame.

8. 8. The hair care accessory of claim 7, wherein one or more of the plurality of vanes further comprises a spacing element opposite the first and second longitudinally extending outlets, the spacing element configured to maintain a gap between the elongated frame and plates of the first and second plate rows.

9. 10. The hair care accessory of claim 1, further comprising an appliance mating portion disposed at a first end of the elongated frame, the appliance mating portion configured to removably couple the elongated frame to a hair care appliance.

10. The hair care accessory of claim 9, wherein the appliance mating portion comprises an air inlet through which air is received from the hair care appliance.

11. a hollow elongated frame having a plurality of openings, each opening including at least one curved wall oriented to direct fluid flow radially outward and circumferentially; a plurality of plates mounted to the hollow elongated frame, each plate positioned over at least one of the openings such that the plate and the at least one curved wall of the at least one opening define at least one elongated outlet, and wherein airflow directed through the at least one elongated outlet is configured to flow circumferentially around at least a portion of an outer surface of at least one of the plurality of plates; A hair care accessory comprising:

12. The hair care accessory of claim 11 , wherein the plurality of openings are arranged circumferentially around and longitudinally along the hollow elongate frame.

13. 13. The hair care accessory of claim 12, wherein the openings in a first row are rotationally offset from the openings in a second row, the first row being longitudinally adjacent to the second row along the hollow elongated frame.

14. 12. The hair care accessory of claim 11, wherein each opening includes two or more outlets adjacent to at least one curved wall and configured to convey air across the at least one curved wall and through the at least one elongated outlet.

15. The hair care accessory of claim 14, wherein adjacent ones of the two or more outlets are circumferentially offset from one another within each opening.

16. The hair care accessory of claim 11 , wherein each plate includes an attachment hook on an inner surface thereof, the attachment hook configured to mate with the at least one curved wall of each opening.

17. 12. The hair care accessory of claim 11, wherein each plate is positioned over at least one of the openings via one or more ridges protruding from an inner surface of each plate, the one or more ridges being configured to maintain a gap between the hollow elongated frame and each plate.

18. 18. The hair care accessory of claim 17, wherein the height of the gap corresponds to the height of the at least one elongate outlet.

19. 12. The hair care accessory of claim 11, wherein the plurality of plates comprises a plurality of plate pairs, each plate pair comprising a first plate and a second plate, the second plate being circumferentially offset from the first plate.

20. 12. The hair care accessory of claim 11, further comprising an appliance mating portion disposed at a first end and an end cap disposed at a second end opposite the first end, the appliance mating portion configured to removably couple the hollow elongated frame to a hair care appliance, the end cap comprising a heat resistant material.

21. a hollow elongated frame having a first plurality of outlets formed therein and an air inlet at a first end thereof; a plurality of rings disposed on the hollow elongated frame and at least partially overlapping one another, each ring having a plurality of vanes formed on an inner surface thereof, the plurality of vanes configured to receive fluid from the first plurality of outlets and direct the fluid through a second plurality of outlets formed between adjacent rings such that the fluid flows circumferentially around outer surfaces of the plurality of rings; Hair care accessories.

22. 22. The hair care accessory of claim 21, further comprising at least one heating element disposed on at least one of the plurality of rings and the hollow elongated frame.

23. 22. The hair care accessory of claim 21, wherein each of the plurality of rings has a first portion having an outer diameter that is greater than an outer diameter of a second portion.

24. 22. The hair care accessory of claim 21, wherein the plurality of vanes are helically shaped, a first ring of the plurality of rings having helically shaped vanes oriented in a first rotational direction and a second ring of the plurality of rings having helically shaped vanes oriented in a second rotational direction opposite the first rotational direction.

25. 22. The hair care accessory of claim 21, wherein the first ring is disposed adjacent a first end of the elongated hollow frame, the first end including the air inlet.

26. 22. The hair care accessory of claim 21, wherein the plurality of vanes extend at an angle of between 5 and 45 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis of the hollow elongated frame.

27. 22. The hair care accessory of claim 21, wherein the plurality of vanes have a height configured to form gaps between overlapping rings, the gaps between each of the plurality of rings defining the second plurality of outlets.

28. 22. The hair care accessory of claim 21, further comprising an appliance mating portion disposed at one end of the hollow elongated frame, the appliance mating portion configured to couple the hollow elongated frame to a hair care appliance.

29. a hollow elongated frame having a first end with an equipment mating portion and a second end; a first ring disposed on the hollow elongated frame; a second ring disposed on the hollow elongated frame, the second ring having a first end position above the second end of the first ring and spaced radially outward from the first ring such that a circumferential gap is formed between the first and second rings, the second ring having at least one first vane configured to bypass fluid flowing through the circumferential gap from the hollow elongated frame in a circumferential direction around the first ring; A hair care accessory comprising:

30. 30. The hair care accessory of claim 29, further comprising a third ring disposed over the hollow elongated frame, having a first end position above the second end of the second ring, and spaced radially outward from the second ring such that a second circumferential gap is formed between the second ring and the third ring, the second circumferential gap having at least one second vane configured to bypass fluid flowing from the hollow elongated frame through the second circumferential gap circumferentially around the second ring.

31. 31. The hair care accessory of claim 30, wherein the at least one first vane and the at least one second vane are angled relative to the longitudinal axis to direct fluid in the same circumferential direction.

32. 30. The hair care accessory of claim 29, further comprising a base ring disposed about the hollow elongated frame, the base ring being disposed between the first ring and the appliance mating portion.

33. 33. The hair care accessory of claim 32, wherein at least one third vane is disposed between the base ring and the hollow elongated frame and configured to direct fluid flow in a circumferential direction.

34. 34. The hair care accessory of claim 33, wherein the at least one third vane is configured to direct fluid flow in a first direction and the at least one first and second vanes are configured to direct fluid flow in a second direction opposite the first direction.

35. 30. The hair care accessory of claim 29, wherein the hollow elongated frame includes a first portion adjacent the appliance mating portion having a plurality of first openings therein, and a second portion extending from the first portion and having a plurality of second openings therein that differ in shape from the plurality of first openings.

36. 36. The hair care accessory of claim 35, wherein the second plurality of openings comprises a first group of openings longitudinally disposed along the hollow elongate frame and a second group of openings longitudinally disposed along the hollow elongate frame.

37. 37. The hair care accessory of claim 36, wherein the first set of openings is configured to divert fluid flow from the hollow elongated frame to the circumferential gap through the at least one first vane.

38. 37. The hair care accessory of claim 36, wherein a portion of the second set of openings is located between annular frame elements located along the length of the hollow elongated frame.

39. 39. The hair care accessory of claim 38, wherein the annular frame element includes a channel on an outer surface thereof, a tab of at least one of the first, second, or third rings received in the channel to secure the at least one of the first, second, or third rings to the hollow elongated frame, the tab protruding from an inner surface of the at least one of the first, second, or third rings.

40. an elongated hollow frame having fluid flow paths extending therethrough between an air inlet and a first plurality of outlets spaced circumferentially around and longitudinally along the elongated hollow frame; a plurality of elongated plates disposed on the elongated hollow frame, the plurality of elongated plates having a second plurality of outlets disposed in alignment with the first plurality of outlets, the second plurality of outlets configured to bypass fluid flowing along the fluid flow path circumferentially around the plurality of elongated plates; an elongated hollow cover disposed on the elongated hollow frame and having a plurality of openings aligned with the first and second plurality of outlets; A hair care accessory comprising:

41. 41. The hair care accessory of claim 40, wherein the elongated hollow cover comprises a unitary cylindrical body.

42. 41. The hair care accessory of claim 40, wherein the plurality of openings are arranged in horizontal and vertical rows on the elongated hollow cover.

43. 41. The hair care accessory of claim 40, further comprising an appliance mating portion adjacent the air inlet and configured to couple the elongated hollow frame to a hair care appliance.

44. 41. The hair care accessory of claim 40, wherein the plurality of openings in the elongated hollow cover extend in a plurality of longitudinally spaced rows along the elongated hollow cover and a plurality of columns spaced circumferentially around the elongated hollow cover.

45. 41. The hair care accessory of claim 40, wherein the second plurality of outlets includes a plurality of pairs of outlets spaced longitudinally along the plurality of elongated plates, each pair of outlets separated by a vane.

46. 46. ​​The hair care accessory of claim 45, wherein the elongated hollow frame has a first end adjacent the air inlet and a second end, and the plurality of pairs of outlets comprises a first pair of outlets having a first vane configured to direct air flow toward the second end and a second pair of outlets having a second vane configured to direct air flow toward the first end.

47. 47. The hair care accessory of claim 46, wherein the first pair of outlets are located adjacent the first end.

48. 41. The hair care accessory of claim 40, wherein each of the second plurality of outlets is defined by first and second radially offset walls defining a longitudinal slot therebetween.

49. 49. The hair care accessory of claim 48, wherein each elongated plate comprises first and second longitudinally extending rails spaced a distance from one another, and the first and second radially offset walls of each of the second plurality of outlets form a bridge element extending between the first and second rails.

50. 41. The hair care accessory of claim 40, wherein the elongated hollow frame includes a plurality of circumferentially spaced ridges therearound, the ridges extending longitudinally along the elongated hollow frame adjacent the second plurality of outlets in the plurality of plates.

51. 51. The hair care accessory of claim 50, wherein each ridge has an angled surface for directing fluid through the second plurality of outlets.

52. 41. The hair care accessory of claim 40, wherein the outer cover includes at least one conduit extending therethrough having a heating element therein.

53. 53. The hair care accessory of claim 52, further comprising an electrical connector adjacent the air inlet and configured to electrically couple to a hair care device to carry electrical power from the hair care device to the heating element in the at least one conduit.

54. a hollow cylindrical body having a plurality of rows of outlets spaced longitudinally therealong between a first end and a second end thereof; a cylindrical cover disposed over the hollow cylindrical body and having a plurality of rows of openings longitudinally spaced apart therealong between a first end and a second end thereof, the plurality of rows of openings at least partially overlapping the plurality of rows of outlets; a plurality of plates disposed between the hollow cylindrical body and the cylindrical cover, the plurality of plates having bypass openings therein configured to direct airflow from the plurality of rows of outlets through the plurality of rows of openings in a circumferential direction around the cylindrical cover; A hair care accessory comprising:

55. 55. The hair care accessory of claim 54, further comprising at least one heater between the cylindrical cover and the hollow cylindrical body configured to heat hair wrapped around the cylindrical cover.

56. 55. A hair care accessory according to claim 54, wherein the bypass opening is defined by first and second radially offset plates defining a slot therebetween.

57. 55. A hair care accessory according to claim 54, wherein each bypass opening comprises a pair of openings separated by a vane.

58. 58. The hair care accessory of claim 57, wherein a first vane of a first of the plurality of bypass openings is angled to direct airflow toward the first end of the cylindrical cover, and a second vane of a second of the plurality of bypass openings is angled to direct airflow toward the second end of the cylindrical cover.

59. 55. The hair care accessory of claim 54, further comprising a mating portion at the first end of the hollow cylindrical body configured to mate with a hair care appliance.

60. an elongate body having an outer wall forming a heated hair contacting surface; at least one heater assembly disposed within the body, the at least one heater assembly including: at least one heating element disposed adjacent to the outer wall; a pressure plate disposed adjacent to the at least one heating element; and a protective sheet extending over at least a portion of the pressure plate; A hair care accessory comprising:

61. 61. The hair care accessory of claim 60, wherein the pressure plate comprises a first surface adjacent the at least one heating element and a second surface opposite the first surface, the second surface adjacent the protective sheet.

62. 62. The hair care accessory of claim 61, wherein the pressure plate comprises at least one force-transmitting element disposed on the second surface and configured to maintain the pressure plate adjacent to the at least one heating element.

63. 63. The hair care accessory of claim 62, wherein the at least one force-transmitting element comprises a compression spring.

64. 61. The hair care accessory of claim 60, wherein the at least one heating element comprises a polyimide film.

65. 61. The hair care accessory of claim 60, wherein the protective sheet comprises a mica material.

66. 61. The hair care accessory of claim 60, wherein the elongate body includes an electrical connector configured to provide power to the at least one heater assembly via power received from a hair care appliance.

67. 61. The hair care accessory of claim 60, wherein the elongate body comprises a lumen configured to receive fluid flow from a hair care device via an air inlet at a proximal end of the body.

68. 1. A heater assembly comprising: a wall having an inner surface and an outer surface; a heating element disposed adjacent to the inner surface of the wall; a plate disposed adjacent to the heating element and configured to maintain the heating element in contact with the inner surface of the wall; and a power source configured to provide power to the heating element.

69. 69. The heater assembly of claim 68, wherein the exterior surface of the wall comprises a heated hair-contacting surface of a hair care appliance or hair appliance accessory.

70. 69. The heater assembly of claim 68, wherein the plate is configured to maintain the heating element in contact with the inner surface of a wall of a housing of a hair care device or hair device accessory via one or more springs disposed between the plate and the wall.

71. 69. The heater assembly of claim 68, wherein the plate is configured to maintain the heating element in contact with the inner surface of a housing via a press fit of the heater assembly into a housing of a hair care appliance or hair appliance accessory.

72. 69. The heater assembly of claim 68, further comprising a mica sheet abutting said pressure plate.

73. a hollow elongated frame having a plurality of plates circumferentially disposed about the hollow elongated frame, the plurality of plates defining outlets therebetween; a heater assembly comprising a ring having an inner wall forming an opening in the ring, an outer wall opposite the inner wall, and a plurality of elongated flexible heating elements extending radially from the outer wall; The hair curler accessory, wherein the ring is configured to be received over the hollow elongated frame such that a plurality of elongated flexible heating elements are disposed between the hollow elongated frame and the plurality of plates.

74. 74. The hair curler accessory of claim 73, wherein the plurality of elongated flexible heating elements comprise polyimide films.

75. 74. The hair curler accessory of claim 73, wherein the ring comprises a non-heating material.

76. 74. The hair curler accessory of claim 73, wherein each of the plurality of elongated flexible heating elements includes wiring configured to transmit power to the respective element, the power being supplied via a hair care appliance removably coupled to the hair curler accessory.

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