Hair Care Equipment

Abstract

A hair care device is provided. The hair care device includes a handle and a body coupled to the handle via a rotational hinge joint. The body may be movable via the rotational hinge joint between a straight configuration in which the body is aligned with a longitudinal axis of the handle and a bent configuration in which the body extends along an axis transverse to the longitudinal axis of the handle. A fluid passageway extends between an inlet in the handle and an outlet in the body. The hair care device may operate in both the straight and bent configurations with minimal loss of fluid flow. The hair care device includes a fan assembly in the handle and a heater assembly in the body positioned to create a balanced center of gravity of the hair care device when operated by a user.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a hair care device. [Background technology]

[0002] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 279,041, filed November 12, 2021, entitled "Hair Care Appliance," U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 737,518, filed May 5, 2022, entitled "Hair Care Appliance," and U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 737,565, filed May 5, 2022, entitled "Hair Care Appliance," and U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 737,596, filed May 5, 2022, entitled "Hair Care Appliance," each of which is incorporated by reference in their entirety herein.

[0003] A hair care appliance is a device used to dry and style hair. Hair care appliances may include various components operable to provide a fluid flow through a fluid passage extending through the device. The fluid passage receives ambient air and directs the ambient air through the hair care appliance via a motor and fan assembly. The fluid passage directs the air across a heater assembly to generate heated air at an outlet of the hair care appliance. Air is directed out of the hair care appliance through the fluid passage to allow a user to dry or style the hair. Hair care appliances often use one or more attachments depending on the hair styling or hair treatment needs of the user. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In general, hair care devices and accessories are provided for use in drying and / or styling hair. In one embodiment, a hair care appliance is provided, which may include a handle and a body movably coupled to each other at a joint, and the body may be movable between a straight configuration in which the body may be aligned longitudinally with respect to a longitudinal axis of the handle and a bent configuration in which the body may extend along an axis transverse to the longitudinal axis of the handle. The handle and the body may have a fluid passage extending therethrough from an inlet of the handle to an outlet of the body, and a first flow divider disposed within the body and configured to divide fluid within the fluid passage in both the straight and bent configurations.

[0005] In another embodiment, the flow diverter can extend in a plane transverse to the longitudinal axis of the body. In another embodiment, the hair care device can include a second flow diverter in the handle. The second flow diverter can distribute the fluid flow in a radially uniform manner in the handle. In another embodiment, at least a portion of the joint can extend into the fluid passageway such that the fluid flow is non-linear through the joint. In another embodiment, the joint can include a rotational joint rotatable about a plane extending at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the handle. In an exemplary embodiment, the angle can range from approximately 30 degrees to 50 degrees. In another embodiment, the hair care device can include a heater positioned between the flow diverter and the outlet. In another embodiment, the hair care device can include a heater positioned between the first flow diverter and the outlet, the first flow diverter configured to direct the fluid flow through the heater in a radially uniform manner. The first flow diverter can be configured to distribute the fluid flow evenly to the top and bottom through the heater and the outlet. In another embodiment, the first flow diverter can include rounded edges to reduce turbulence in the fluid flow over the flow diverter, hi another embodiment, the fluid passage can be sealed within the handle and body.

[0006] In another aspect, a hair care device is provided, the hair care device may include a housing including a handle having an inlet and a body coupled to the handle and having an outlet, the housing further including a fluid passageway located through the housing between the inlet and the outlet. The body may be movable between a straight configuration in which the body extends along a longitudinal axis of the handle and a bent configuration in which the body extends along an axis transverse to the longitudinal axis of the handle. The hair care device may also include a fan assembly disposed within the housing and configured to generate a fluid flow from the inlet along the fluid passageway to the outlet, the fluid flow having a flow velocity. The flow velocity in the bent configuration may be no more than 11% lower than the flow velocity in the straight configuration.

[0007] In another embodiment, the body can extend at an angle to the handle in the bent configuration. In another embodiment, the length of the handle can be greater than the length of the body. In another embodiment, the flow rate in the bent configuration can be in the range of approximately 18.0 m / s to 31.5 m / s, and the flow rate in the straight configuration can be in the range of approximately 18.5 m / s to 35.5 m / s. The ratio of the maximum flow rate to the minimum flow rate can be used to indicate the consistency of the flow rate provided by the hair care device in the bent and straight configurations. For example, in one embodiment, the ratio of the maximum flow rate:minimum flow rate in the bent configuration can be approximately 1.7, and the ratio of the maximum flow rate:minimum flow rate in the straight configuration can be approximately 1.6. In another embodiment, the fan assembly can be located inside the handle adjacent to a rotation joint formed between the handle and the body.

[0008] In another aspect, a hair care device is provided, the hair care device may include a handle and a body movably coupled to one another at a joint. The handle and the body may have a fluid passageway extending therethrough between an inlet in the handle and an outlet in the body. The handle may include a printed circuit board (PCB), a fan assembly having a central shaft and a number of vanes extending radially outward from the central shaft, and a hub disposed between the PCB and the fan assembly. The hub may include a central dome configured to direct fluid flowing around the PCB radially outward toward the vanes.

[0009] In general, hair care devices and accessories are provided for use in drying and / or styling hair. In one embodiment, a hair care appliance is provided, which may include a handle and a body connected to the handle at a joint, and the body may be movable between a straight configuration in which the body may be aligned with the longitudinal axis of the handle and a bent configuration in which the body may extend along an axis transverse to the longitudinal axis of the handle. In the bent configuration, the handle and the body may have a center of mass located below the longitudinal axis of the body and forward of the longitudinal axis of the handle.

[0010] In another embodiment, the handle can include a first end defining the inlet and a second end located at the joint, and the body can include a first end located at the joint and a second end defining the outlet. In another embodiment, the printed circuit board can be disposed within the handle, the printed circuit board positioned closer to the first end than the second end of the handle. In another embodiment, the motor and fan can be disposed within the handle, the motor and fan positioned closer to the second end than the first end of the handle. In another embodiment, the heater can be disposed within the body, the heater positioned closer to the second end than the first end of the body. In another embodiment, the hair care device can include a heater assembly disposed within the body, and the hair care device can have a center point radially offset from a longitudinal axis extending through the handle when the body is in a bent configuration. In another embodiment, the handle and body can have a center of gravity radially offset from a longitudinal axis of the handle and body in the bent and straight configurations. The center of gravity in the bent configuration may be radially offset by a greater distance compared to the distance of the center of gravity from the longitudinal axis in the straight configuration.

[0011] In another aspect, a hair care device is provided, the hair care device may include a handle and a body coupled to the handle at a joint, the body may be movable between a straight configuration in which the body may be aligned with a longitudinal axis of the handle and a bent configuration in which the body extends along an axis that may be transverse to the longitudinal axis of the handle, the handle and the body having a full length in the straight configuration, the handle having a length of about 2 / 3 of the full length and the body having a length of about 1 / 3 of the full length.

[0012] In another embodiment, in the straight configuration, the joint can be configured to release the body from the handle to initiate rotation of the joint in response to a force in the range of approximately 3.1N to 3.6N. In another embodiment, in the bent configuration, the joint can be configured to release the body from the handle to initiate rotation of the joint in response to a force in the range of approximately 5.1N to 5.3N. In another embodiment, when the joint can be positioned between the straight configuration and the fully bent configuration, the joint can be configured to rotate in response to a force in the range of approximately 3.6N to 4.0N. In another embodiment, the joint can be configured to rotate in response to a torque in the range of approximately 0.1N to 0.7N.

[0013] In another aspect, a hair care device is provided, the hair care device may include a housing including a handle and a body coupled to the handle, the body being movable between a straight configuration in which the body may be aligned with a longitudinal axis of the handle and a bent configuration in which the body may extend along an axis transverse to the longitudinal axis of the handle. The hair care device may include a fan assembly disposed within the housing and configured to direct fluid along a fluid passageway from a fluid inlet in the housing to a fluid outlet in the housing. The hair care device may include a heater assembly disposed within the housing and configured to heat fluid flowing through the fluid passageway. The body may be cylindrical with a constant outer diameter and the handle is cylindrical with a tapered outer diameter.

[0014] In another embodiment, the hair care device can include a revolute joint that is rotatable to move the body relative to the handle in response to actuation of a drive mechanism in the handle. In another embodiment, the revolute hinge joint can include a snap hinge assembly including a retaining member and a gasket positioned on the retaining member. In another embodiment, the snap hinge assembly can be positioned between the handle hinge plate and the body hinge plate, the handle hinge plate and the body hinge plate being separated by a gap formed therebetween. In another embodiment, the handle hinge plate can include a plurality of first snap-fit ​​features configured to couple the handle hinge plate to the handle frame, and the body hinge plate can include a plurality of second snap-fit ​​features configured to couple the body hinge plate to the body frame.

[0015] In another aspect, a hair care device is provided, the hair care device may include a housing having a handle and a body. The housing may have a fluid inlet, a fluid outlet, and a fluid passageway extending therethrough between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet. The hair care device may include a heater assembly disposed within the housing along the fluid passageway and configured to heat a fluid flowing through the fluid passageway. The heater assembly may include an inner support structure including a central shaft and a plurality of planar segments extending along the central shaft and radially outward from the central shaft. Each planar segment of the plurality of planar segments may be circumferentially spaced apart from one another. The heater assembly may also include at least one wiring member extending circumferentially around the inner support structure, the inner support structure supporting the at least one wiring member. Each of the plurality of planar segments may include a notch formed in the planar segment and configured to allow fluid flow therethrough.

[0016] In another embodiment, the heater assembly may also include a thermistor having a first connecting wire and a second connecting wire that may be attached to at least one of the plurality of planar segments, the first connecting wire and the second connecting wire suspending the thermistor in the fluid passage at the fluid outlet. The first and second wirings together may form a U-shaped configuration. In another embodiment, the thermistor may be suspended between two adjacent planar segments of the plurality of segments via the first and second wirings. The heater assembly may also include a fuse coupled to one of the two adjacent planar segments.

[0017] In another embodiment, the hair care device may include a rotating hinge joint between the handle and the body. Wiring for powering the heater assembly may be routed along a periphery of the rotating hinge joint and along an inner surface of the handle and an inner surface of the body. In another embodiment, the cutout formed in each of the plurality of planar segments may have a shape selected from the group consisting of a rectangular shape, a square shape, a circular shape, a geometric shape, and an elliptical shape. In another embodiment, the heater assembly also includes an ionizer coupled to at least one of the plurality of planar segments. In another embodiment, the heater assembly also includes a cylindrical housing that encloses the inner support structure and the at least one wiring member.

[0018] In another aspect, a hair care device is provided, the hair care device may include a housing including a handle having a first end with a fluid inlet formed therein and having a second end, and a body having a first end coupled to the second end of the handle and having a fluid outlet formed therein. The hair care device may include a fluid passageway extending through the housing between the fluid inlet in the handle and the fluid outlet in the body. The hair care device may also include a fan assembly disposed within the housing along the fluid passageway for directing fluid from the fluid inlet to the fluid outlet. The hair care device may also include a heater assembly disposed within the housing along the fluid passageway for heating fluid flowing through the fluid passageway. The hair care device may further include a user interface surface extending along a portion of the handle and including at least one button for controlling at least one of the fan assembly and the heater assembly. The user interface surface may extend from the first end toward the second end of the handle.

[0019] In another embodiment, the fluid inlet can extend at least partially around a circumference of the handle at a first end of the handle, and the user interface surface intersects the fluid inlet. In another embodiment, the at least one button can be flush or substantially flush with the user interface surface. In another embodiment, the user interface surface can include an elongated region having edges extending longitudinally along the handle to facilitate gripping the handle. In another embodiment, the fluid inlet can include a substantially C-shaped cylindrical porous outer housing and a filter disposed within the housing. In another embodiment, the user interface can intersect the substantially C-shaped cylindrical porous outer housing and the filter. In another embodiment, the user interface can be located within a scalloped portion of the handle. In another embodiment, the user interface can include at least one illumination member for illuminating the at least one button or for illuminating a surface of the user interface. In another embodiment, the hair care device can also include a blow-off button for shutting off the heater assembly to allow unheated fluid to flow through the fluid passageway. In another embodiment, the at least one button for controlling the fan assembly is repeatedly engageable to select at least one speed setting for the fan assembly, hi another embodiment, the at least one button for controlling the heater assembly is repeatedly engageable to select at least one temperature setting for the heater assembly.

[0020] These and other features will be more readily understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0021] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a side cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of a hair care device shown in a straight configuration. [Diagram 2]FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional side view of the hair care device of FIG. 1 in an angled or bent configuration. [Diagram 3] 3 is a perspective end view of the handle of the hair care device of FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the handle of FIG. 1 with the inlet housing removed. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a side perspective view of the hair care device of FIG. 1 with the inlet housing and filter removed. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is another side perspective view of the hair care device of FIG. 1 with the inlet housing and filter removed. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a top perspective view of the hair care device of FIG. 1 with the outer housing removed to show the internal components of the device. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the bottom of the hair care device shown in FIG. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a side perspective view of the hair care device shown in FIG. 7, illustrating the rotating hinge joint. [Figure 10] 10 is a side perspective exploded view of the handle hinge portion, retaining member and gasket included in the rotating hinge joint of FIG. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a side perspective view of the rotating hinge joint of FIG. 10, showing a partially assembled configuration. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a side perspective view of the partially assembled configuration of the rotating hinge joint of FIG. 11, further including a handle hinge plate engaged thereto. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a side perspective view of the partially assembled configuration of the rotating hinge joint of FIG. 12, further including a body hinge plate engaged thereto. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a side perspective view of a partially assembled configuration of the rotating hinge joint of FIG. 13, further including a first body frame engaged thereto. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a side perspective view of a partially assembled configuration of the rotating hinge joint of FIG. 14, further including a heater assembly and wiring engaged thereto. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a side perspective view showing a partially assembled configuration of the rotating hinge joint of FIG. 15, further including a second body frame attached thereto. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a side perspective view of the outlet of the rotating hinge joint of FIG. 16 in a partially assembled configuration, further including an O-ring engaged against the outlet. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a side view of the hair care device of FIG. 1 showing the proportions of the handle and body dimensions. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a side view of the hair care device of FIG. 1 showing the center of mass of the hair care device and the tapered handle configuration. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a perspective end view of a user interface for the hair care device of FIG. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the hair care device of FIG. 1 with the handle housing removed to show the internal electrical components. [Figure 22] 22 is a side perspective view of the bottom of the electrical component shown in FIG. 21. FIG. [Figure 23] FIG. 23 is another side perspective view of the electrical component of FIG. [Figure 24] FIG. 24 is a side perspective view of the hair care device of FIG. 1 with the handle and body housings removed to reveal the internal fan assembly. [Diagram 25] FIG. 25 is a side cross-sectional view of the hair care device of FIG. [Figure 26] FIG. 26 is a side perspective view of a portion of the hair care device of FIG. 1 with the outer housing removed to show the internal heater assembly. [Figure 27]FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional view of the hair care device shown in FIG. [Figure 28] 28 is a perspective end view of the heater assembly of FIG. 26. FIG. [Figure 29] FIG. 29 is a side perspective view of the hair care device of FIG. 1 with the outer housing removed, illustrating the flow channels in a linear configuration. [Diagram 30] FIG. 30 is another side perspective view of the hair care device of FIG. 1 with the outer housing removed, illustrating the fluid passageways. [Diagram 31] FIG. 31 is a plot illustrating flow path testing data for the hair care device of FIG. 1 in a linear configuration. [Diagram 32] FIG. 32 is a plot illustrating flow path testing data for the hair care device of FIG. 1 in an angled configuration. [Diagram 33] FIG. 33 is a perspective side view of the hair care device of FIG. 1 showing an attachment engaging assembly on an end portion. [Diagram 34] FIG. 34 is another side perspective view of the engagement mechanism of FIG. [Figure 35A] 35A is an end perspective view of the attachment engaging assembly of FIG. 33. FIG. [Figure 35B] FIG. 35B is an end perspective view of another embodiment of an attachment engaging assembly of a hair-care device. [Diagram 36] 36 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the attachment engaging assembly of FIG. 35. FIG. [Figure 37] 37 is a cross-sectional side view of the attachment engaging assembly of FIG. 35. FIG. [Figure 38] FIG. 38 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a round brush attachment configured for use with a hair care appliance. [Figure 39] FIG. 39 is a cross-sectional view of the round brush attachment of FIG. [Diagram 40] 40 is a cross-sectional view of the attachment engaging assembly of the round brush attachment of FIG. [Diagram 41] 41 is a top perspective view of the latch and release mechanism of the round brush attachment of FIG. 38. FIG. [Diagram 42] 42 is a bottom perspective view of the engagement features of the round brush attachment of FIG. 38. FIG. [Diagram 43] FIG. 43 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a curl attachment configured for use with a hair appliance. [Diagram 44] FIG. 44 is a cross-sectional view showing fluid flow through the curl attachment of FIG. [Diagram 45] FIG. 45 is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of a curl attachment configured for use with a hair care appliance. [Diagram 46] FIG. 46 is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of a curl attachment configured for use with a hair care appliance. [Figure 47] FIG. 47 is a plan view of the curl attachment of FIG. [Figure 48] 48 is a side view of the curl attachment of FIG. 46. FIG. [Figure 49] FIG. 49 is a perspective view of the curl attachment of FIG. 46 in operation. [Figure 50] FIG. 50 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a barrel curl attachment configured for use with a hair care appliance. [Figure 51] FIG. 51 is a cross-sectional end view of the scroll assembly of the barrel curl attachment of FIG. 50 in operation. [Figure 52] FIG. 52 is another cross-sectional end view of the scroll assembly of the barrel curl attachment of FIG. 50 in operation. [Diagram 53] FIG. 53 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of a wrap-around barrel curl attachment configured for use with a hair care appliance. [Figure 54]54 is a side view of the wrap around barrel curl attachment of FIG. 53. [Figure 55] FIG. 55 is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of a round brush attachment configured for use with a hair care appliance. [Figure 56A] FIG. 56A is a cross-sectional view of the round brush attachment of FIG. 55 in a neutral configuration. [Figure 56B] FIG. 56B is a cross-sectional view of the round brush attachment of FIG. 55 when used in a first orientation. [Figure 56C] FIG. 56C is a cross-sectional view of the round brush attachment of FIG. 55 when used in a second orientation. [Figure 57] FIG. 57 is a top perspective view showing the alignment features of the round brush attachment of FIG. 55. [Figure 58] FIG. 58 is a side perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a diffuser attachment configured for use with a hair care appliance. [Figure 59] 59 is a bottom perspective view of the diffuser attachment of FIG. 58. FIG. [Figure 60] FIG. 60 is a cross-sectional view of the diffuser attachment of FIG. 58, showing the inner disk. [Figure 61] FIG. 61 is a cross-sectional view of the diffuser attachment of FIG. 58 showing the fluid passageways through the diffuser attachment. [Figure 62] FIG. 62 is a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a concentrator attachment configured for use with a hair care appliance. [Figure 63] FIG. 63 is a side perspective view in a suspended state of another exemplary embodiment of a concentrator attachment configured for use with a hair care appliance. [Figure 64] FIG. 64 is a bottom side perspective view of the concentrator attachment of FIG. 63. [Figure 65]FIG. 65 is a side perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of a concentrator attachment configured for use with a hair care appliance. [Figure 66] FIG. 66 is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of a curl attachment configured for use with a hair care appliance. [Figure 67] FIG. 67 is a side perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a paddle brush attachment configured for use with a hair care appliance. [Figure 68] FIG. 68 is a perspective view of an electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) housing configured for use with a hair care device described herein. [Figure 69] FIG. 69 is a front perspective view of the contents in the EMC enclosure of FIG. [Figure 70] FIG. 70 is a rear perspective view of the contents in the EMC enclosure of FIG. [Figure 71] FIG. 71 is a perspective view of an ionizer disposed with a heater assembly in a hair care device described herein. [Figure 72] FIG. 72 is a side perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of an attachment engagement assembly of a hair-care appliance. [Figure 73] 73 is a perspective view of an attachment engaging collar in the attachment engaging assembly of FIG. 72. FIG. [Figure 74] 74 is a side perspective view of the attachment actuator assembly and attachment engagement collar of the attachment engagement assembly of FIG. 72. FIG. [Figure 75] 75 is a side perspective view of the attachment actuator assembly of the attachment engagement assembly of FIG. 72. FIG. [Figure 76A] 76A is a cross-sectional view of the attachment actuator assembly coupled to the attachment engagement collar of FIG. 73. FIG. [Figure 76B]76B is a cutaway cross-sectional view of the attachment actuator assembly coupled to the attachment engagement collar of FIG. 73. FIG. [Figure 77] 77 is an end perspective view of an outlet grill of the attachment engagement assembly of FIG. 72. FIG. [Figure 78] 78 is a top perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of a diffuser attachment configured for use with the attachment engagement assembly of FIG. [Figure 79] 79 is a bottom perspective view of the diffuser attachment of FIG. 78. FIG. [Figure 80] FIG. 80 is a top perspective view, with cross section, of the diffuser attachment of FIG. [Figure 81] FIG. 81 is a cross-sectional view of the diffuser attachment of FIG. [Figure 82A] 82A is a side view of another exemplary embodiment of a concentrator attachment configured for use with a hair care appliance including the attachment engagement assembly of FIG. [Fig. 82B] FIG. 82B is a bottom view of the concentrator attachment of FIG. 82A. [Fig. 82C] FIG. 82C is a side perspective view of the concentrator attachment of FIG. 82A. [Figure 83A] 83A is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of a curl attachment configured for use with a hair care appliance including the attachment engaging assembly of FIG. 72. [Figure 83B] FIG. 83B is a cross-sectional view of the curl attachment of FIG. 83A. [Fig. 84A] 84A is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of a round brush attachment configured for use with a hair care device including the attachment engaging assembly of FIG. 72. FIG. [Fig. 84B] FIG. 84B is a cross-sectional perspective view of the round brush attachment of FIG. 84A. [Fig. 85A]85A is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of a paddle brush attachment configured for use with a hair care appliance including the attachment engaging assembly of FIG. 72. FIG. [Fig. 85B] FIG. 85B is a cross-sectional perspective view of the paddle brush attachment of FIG. 84A. [Figure 86] FIG. 86 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of an air dividing structure in the paddle brush of FIG. 85A. [Figure 87A] FIG. 87A is a side view of a hair care device illustrating an experimental approach for determining the center of gravity of a hair care device described herein in a straight configuration. [Fig. 87B] FIG. 87B is a side view of the hair care device of FIG. 87A illustrating the location of the center of gravity in a hair care device described herein in a straight configuration. [Fig. 88A] FIG. 88A is a side view of a hair care device illustrating an experimental approach for determining the center of gravity of a hair care device described herein in a bent configuration. [Fig. 88B] FIG. 88B is a side view of the hair care device of FIG. 88A illustrating the location of the center of gravity in a hair care device described herein in a bent configuration. [Figure 89A] FIG. 89A is a cross-sectional view of the hair care device showing the position of the printed circuit board in the hair care device in a linear configuration. [Figure 89B] FIG. 89B is a cross-sectional view of the hair care device showing the position of the motor in the hair care device in a straight configuration. [Figure 89C] FIG. 89C is a cross-sectional view of the hair care device showing the location of the heater in the hair care device in a straight configuration. [Figure 90] FIG. 90 is a partial perspective view of the hair care device showing the position of the heater in the hair care device in a bent configuration. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0022] It should be noted that the drawings are not necessarily to scale, and 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.

[0023] Certain exemplary embodiments will now be described to provide a general understanding of the principles of the structure, function, manufacture, and use of the devices and methods disclosed herein. One or more examples of these embodiments are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the devices and methods specifically described herein and illustrated in the accompanying drawings are non-limiting exemplary embodiments, and that the scope of the invention is defined only by the claims. Features illustrated or described in connection with one exemplary embodiment may be combined with features in other embodiments. Such modifications and variations are intended to be encompassed within the scope of the invention.

[0024] Various exemplary hair care appliances and accessories for use with the hair care appliance are provided herein. Generally, the hair care appliance is in the form of a hair dryer in an elongated generally cylindrical configuration with a handle and a body movably coupled relative to one another. The handle is configured to be movable relative to the body to transition the appliance from a straight configuration to a bent configuration, allowing a user to select a desired configuration based on the intended use. The hair care appliance also includes various internal components that facilitate use and operation of the hair care appliance. Various accessories are also provided for use with the hair care appliance, which can change the configuration of the appliance depending on the type of accessory that is engaged with the hair care appliance. In certain embodiments, the accessories can restrict the configuration of the hair care appliance. For example, at least one accessory is provided that engages with the hair dryer in a straight configuration, which prevents the hair care appliance from transitioning to a bent configuration. Meanwhile, other accessories can be engaged in a manner that allows the hair dryer to be used in a selected configuration. In some embodiments, the accessories can be attached in a permanently fixed position relative to the hair care appliance. In another aspect, a hair care appliance is provided that does not have a rotating hinge joint. In such an embodiment, one hair care appliance can be provided with a straight configuration and a second hair care appliance can be provided with an angled configuration. The attachments described herein can be used with any of the hair care appliances mentioned above, or with any other hair care appliance known in the art.

[0025] 1 and 2 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a hair care device 100, showing straight and bent configurations, respectively. As shown, the hair care device 100 generally includes a handle 110 movably coupled to a body 120 by a rotating hinge joint 300. In the straight configuration shown in FIG. 1, the device 100 has a generally elongated cylindrical shape. The handle 110 has an inlet 112 at a first end of the device 100, and the body has an outlet 122 at a second end of the device. A fluid passageway P, shown in dashed lines, is formed between the inlet 112 and the outlet 122. The rotating hinge joint 300 formed between the handle 110 and the body 120 can be articulated by a user to change the configuration of the hair care device 100, and thus the fluid passageway P, from a straight configuration to a bent configuration or to an angled configuration. 2, the handle 110 and the body 120 are at an angle relative to one another as a result of articulation by the rotational hinge joint 300. As a result, the fluid passageway P, as shown by the dashed line, is at an angle between the handle 110 and the body 120.

[0026] One skilled in the art will appreciate that the hair care device 100 may be operated when the rotating hinge joint 300 is unlatched and / or when the rotating hinge joint 300 is rotationally driven to any position between the position of the rotating hinge joint 300 in the straight configuration and the position of the rotating hinge joint 300 in the angled configuration. In other embodiments, the hair care device 100 and the rotating hinge joint 300 may be configured to prevent the rotating hinge joint 300 from being rotationally driven too far beyond the position in the angled configuration. The hair care device 100 may be in a fully straight configuration as shown in FIG. 1, in which the rotating hinge joint locks the body such that it is aligned longitudinally with respect to the handle. The hair care device 100 may be in a fully bent configuration as shown in FIG. 2, in which the rotating hinge joint locks the body such that it is angled with respect to the handle. The hair care device 100 can also be configured in a rotational configuration in which the rotational hinge joint positions the body relative to the handle in a range of angular positions intermediate the angular positions in the fully straight configuration and the fully bent configuration.

[0027] The handle 110 may include various internal electrical components 400 for operating the device. In general, the handle may include electrical components 400 that may control the operation of a fan assembly 500 disposed within the handle 110 and a heater assembly 600 disposed within the body 120. In an exemplary embodiment, as shown, the fan assembly 500 may be located downstream of the rotating hinge joint 300 and adjacent to the heater assembly 600 disposed upstream of the rotating hinge joint 300. This may help improve fluid flow within the hair care device 100. The fan assembly 500 may create a fluid flow along a fluid path P such that air is drawn into the inlet 112, through the handle 110, into the body 120, and out through the outlet 122. As the air passes through the body 120, the air may be heated by the heater assembly 600.

[0028] The electrical component 400 can be configured to couple to a power source 410. FIG. 3 illustrates a power cord 130 extending from a base of the handle 110. The power cord 130 can have an end (not shown) configured to couple to a power source, for example, the end can be configured to plug into an electrical outlet. The power cord 130 can include internal electrical wiring to provide power to electronics within the handle 110. The power cord 130 can connect to an electronics housing containing at least one controller or PCB. As further shown in FIG. 3, the handle 110 can include a scalloped portion 403 in which a user interface 401 can be positioned.

[0029] As further shown in FIG. 3, the end of the handle 110 can include a filter assembly 200 for filtering air drawn through the inlet 112. In the illustrated embodiment, the filter extends around the proximal end portion of the handle 110, but is not formed in the end wall of the handle 110. Thus, fluid D is drawn circumferentially around the side wall of the handle 110. The illustrated filter assembly 200 includes a generally C-shaped inlet housing 220 that is flexible so that it can be removed for cleaning. The user interface 401 can intersect with the inlet housing 220. The inlet housing 220 has a number of holes through which fluid can enter the fluid passageway. The holes can have any configuration and can be arranged in any pattern. The inlet housing 220 can cover a filter 230 positioned behind the inlet housing, as shown in FIG. 4, which shows the inlet housing 220 removed. The filter 230 may be a porous member configured to block dirt and hair that may enter the inlet housing 220, thereby preventing the dirt from entering the fluid path P. As further shown in Figure 4, the electrical component 400 may be positioned immediately downstream of the filter and upstream of the fan assembly 500, such that the fluid path P flows over and around the electrical component 400 as fluid is drawn towards and into the operating fan assembly 500, which may assist in cooling the electrical component 400.

[0030] Equipment Housing The remainder of the handle 110 is formed from a first handle housing 114a and a second handle housing 114b that are engaged with each other in a clamshell type configuration to enclose the internal components. In some embodiments, the handle 110 may include a single handle housing, such as a sleeve. The first handle housing 114a and the second handle housing 114b may be snap-fit ​​together, although other attachment mechanisms are envisioned. The inlet housing 220 may be snap-fit ​​to the first handle housing 114a and the second handle housing 114b. The hair care device 100 also includes a body housing 124. In some embodiments, the body 120 may be formed from multiple housings engaged with each other.

[0031] The handle housings 114a, 114b and the body housing 124 may include a surface treatment configured to assist a user in gripping the hair-care device 100 and / or to assist a user in rotating the rotating hinge joint 300 to change the configuration of the hair-care device 100 from a straight configuration to a bent configuration or vice versa. In some embodiments, the surface treatment may include grooving, such as a spiral shaped grooving, on the body housing 124, as shown in FIG. 5. In some embodiments, the surface treatment may include painting or may include a similarly applied surface treatment.

[0032] The device may also include multiple internal housings or frames. As shown in FIG. 7, which is illustrated with the external housings 114a, 114b, 124 removed, the hair care device 100 includes a first handle frame 116a and a second handle frame 116b configured inside the handle 110. The first handle frame 116a and the second handle frame 116b may engage with each other via a snap fit, such as a friction fit, screws, or rivets, or similar attachment methods or mechanisms. The hair care device 100 may also include a first body frame 126a and a second body frame 126b disposed inside the body 120. The first body frame 126a and the second body frame 126b may engage with each other via a snap fit, such as a friction fit, screws, rivets, or similar attachment methods or mechanisms.

[0033] The fan assembly cover 502 may be disposed within the handle 110 and attached to the second handle frame 116b. In some embodiments, the first handle frame 116a may extend to form the fan assembly cover rather than having a separate cover. The electrical components 420 may be disposed between the first handle frame 116a and the second handle frame 116b. The electrical components 400 may be coupled to one of the first handle frame 116a and the second handle frame 116b, or to both the first handle frame 116a and the second handle frame 116b. As shown in FIG. 8, the second handle frame 116b may be disposed along the bottom of the hair care device 100.

[0034] Hinge Joint As indicated above, the body 120 and the handle 110 are engaged to one another at a rotating hinge joint 300. The rotating hinge joint 300 may have a variety of configurations, but in the illustrated embodiment includes a handle hinge plate 302 configured relative to the handle 110 and a body hinge plate 306 configured relative to the body 120, as shown in FIG. 9. The handle hinge plate 302 and the body hinge plate 306 may be separated by a gap such that the handle 110 and the body 120 may be rotationally driven relative to one another in a smooth and unhindered manner. In some embodiments, the handle hinge plate 302 and the body hinge plate 306 may include a surface finish or coating material. In some embodiments, the rotating hinge joint 300 may be configured at an angle of 30 degrees to 50 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis of the handle. The rotating hinge joint 300 may be rotationally driven to an angled configuration in a first orientation and may be returned to a straight configuration by rotationally driving to a second orientation.

[0035] The rotating hinge joint 300 is shown in more detail in Figures 10-17. As shown, the hinge joint 300 is formed between the second handle frame 116b and the first body frame 126a of the handle as partially shown in Figures 10-17. In other embodiments, the rotating hinge joint 300 can be a separately formed member that can be coupled to the second handle frame 116b and the first body frame 126a. The second handle frame 116b can provide a structural engagement surface for engaging with the first body frame 126a, and the second handle frame 116b and the first body frame 126a, when coupled together, can form a rotating hinge joint as described herein.

[0036] As further shown in FIG. 10, the rotating hinge joint can include a snap hinge assembly 310. The snap hinge assembly 310 can include a retaining member 312 and a gasket 314 attached to and disposed around the retaining member 312. The retaining member 312 can be snap-fitted or friction-fitted to the second handle frame 116b by seating the retaining member within an opening 320 that forms a fluid passageway in the rotating hinge joint 300 between the handle 110 and the body 120, as shown in FIG. 11. The retaining member 312 can be formed from a high friction material, such as nylon, Teflon, or similar plastic material, to rotate the handle 110 and the body 120 with minimal force. As further shown in FIG. 11, the gasket 314 can be secured onto the retaining member 312. The second handle frame 116b can include a plurality of snap-fit ​​features 304.

[0037] 12, the handle hinge plate 302 can be coupled to the second handle frame 116b via a snap-fit ​​feature 304. The handle hinge plate 302 can include a corresponding snap-fit ​​feature on an opposing side to the snap-fit ​​feature 304 to secure the handle hinge plate 302 to the second handle frame 116b.

[0038] 13, the body hinge plate 306 can be configured to couple to the first body frame 720 and / or the second body frame 725. The body hinge plate 306 can be formed from similar materials as the handle hinge plate 302. The body hinge plate 306 can include a number of snap-fit ​​features 308 configured to couple to one or more body frames.

[0039] As shown in FIG. 14, the first body frame 126a can be coupled to the body hinge plate 306 via one or more snap-fit ​​features 308. As shown in FIG. 15, the wires W can be routed through the second handle frame 116b and through the opening 320, and can be coupled to a heater assembly 600 disposed inside the body of the hair care appliance. The wires W can advantageously be routed around the fluid passageway passing through the second handle frame 116b, the opening 320, and the first body frame 126a (and the second body frame 126b). In this manner, fluid flow obstructions within the fluid passageway can be minimized or reduced. The wires W can be positioned directly on or in close proximity to the second handle frame 116b and the first body frame 126a (or the second body frame 126b).

[0040] As shown in Fig. 16, the second body frame 126b can be coupled to the first body frame 126a via a number of snap-fit ​​features 128. In this manner, the first body frame 126a and the second body frame 126b can form the outlet 122 at the distal end of the body (and the hair care device 100). As shown in Fig. 17, an O-ring 150 or similar ring-like flexible member can be applied to the ends of the coupled first and second body frames 126a, 126b to secure their engagement with one another. The O-ring 150 can also provide a flexible interface for an outlet frame structure configured to couple to the first and second body frames 126a, 126b at the outlet end of the hair care device 100.

[0041] The instrument may also have a shape that makes it easy to grasp. As shown in FIG. 19, the instrument body 120 is cylindrical, but the handle 110 is shaped such that the overall length of the handle L hIn particular, the profile or diameter of the handle 110 can vary from a first position T1, a distance from the hinge joint 300, to a second position T2, located at the end of the handle 110, such that the second position T2 has a smaller diameter compared to the diameter at the first position T1. This allows a user to more easily grip the instrument, and can provide a larger profile or diameter at the joint 300 and within the body for internal components, such as a heater assembly.

[0042] In use, the rotating hinge joint allows the user to easily transform the hair care device from a straight to an angled configuration with little or no loss of flow rate or pressure. This can be advantageous when performing different styling treatments in rapid succession or when using attachments on the hair care device. To facilitate the transition between the straight and angled or bent configurations, the hair care device 100 can include a drive mechanism 340, shown in FIG. 6. In the illustrated embodiment, the drive mechanism 340 is in the form of a slidable button disposed against a spring of the drive mechanism, and retracting the drive mechanism 340 loads the spring and releases the latch mechanism of the rotating hinge joint 300, allowing the rotating hinge joint to rotate between the straight and bent configurations, as described in more detail below. After the user has rotationally driven the rotating hinge joint 300 into the second configuration, the user can release the drive mechanism 340, which allows the latch mechanism of the rotating hinge joint 300 to re-engage and secure the rotating hinge joint 300 in the second configuration.

[0043] In certain exemplary embodiments, the amount of force required to release the hair care device 100 from the straight configuration and to allow rotation to the angled configuration can vary. For example, the amount of force required to release the body 120 from the handle 110 in the straight configuration to initiate rotational actuation of the hinge joint 300 to the angled configuration can be between 3.1N and 3.6N. In the angled configuration, the amount of force required to rotationally drive the body 120 relative to the handle 110 can be between 3.6N and 4.0N. The rotational hinge joint 300 of the hair care device 100 can also be configured to require a particular amount of force to release the device from the angled configuration and allow rotational actuation to the straight configuration. The amount of force required to release the body 120 from the handle 110 in the angled configuration to initiate rotation of the hinge joint 300 to the straight configuration can be between 5.1N and 5.3N. The rotational hinge joint 300 can also be configured to require a particular amount of force to move the instrument from a rotated position to a straight or angled configuration. For example, the amount of force to move the body 120 to a straight configuration by the handle 110 can be 4.5N to 5.3N. The amount of force to move the body 120 to an angled configuration by the handle 110 can be 6.2N to 6.7N. The torque required to rotationally drive the rotational hinge joint 300 can vary, but in an exemplary embodiment, can be approximately 0.1N to 0.7N. In other aspects, the rotational hinge joint 300 can be configured to release, rotate, or move the body 120 relative to the handle 110 to provide consistent tactile feedback when adjusting the body 120 to a straight or angled configuration.

[0044] As indicated above, when the device is fully assembled, the device 100 can have a generally elongated cylindrical configuration. Although the cross-sectional shapes and dimensions of the handle 110 and body 120 can vary, in an exemplary embodiment, the handle 110 is longer than the body 120. As shown in FIG. 18, when the hair care device 100 is in a straight configuration, the device has an overall length L t The axis A of the rotational hinge joint can extend along the length of the device 100 relative to the handle length L. h and body length L b In an exemplary embodiment, the handle length L h is the total length L t and the body length L b is the total length L t However, the handle length L h and the body length L t The ratio of the overall length L of the device 100 in a straight configuration can vary. t In an exemplary embodiment, the overall length L of the device 100 in a straight configuration is in the range of approximately 26.0 cm to 31.0 cm. t In the bent or angled configuration, as shown in FIG. 19, the handle length L h is in the range of approximately 19.5cm to 24.5cm, and the body length L b In an exemplary embodiment, the handle length L h In an exemplary embodiment, the length of the body L b is 11.0 cm.

[0045] The device 100 can also be configured to have a center of mass that properly balances the device in the user's hand in the bent configuration. The center of mass of the device 100 can be a location where the distribution of mass is equal in all directions and independent of the gravitational field. In an exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 19, the hair care device 100 has a center of mass M forward of the handle 110 and below the body 120. The arrangement of components within the handle 110 and the body 120 can advantageously locate the center of mass M as shown, enhancing the user experience of holding and manipulating the hair care device 100 and allowing the user to secure the hair care device in their hand with minimal force. In particular, locating the center of mass forward of the handle and below the body can ensure anatomically neutral handling and reduce user fatigue when holding the hair care device in the user's hand. The motor 520 can be aligned with the heater assembly 600 to balance the center of mass M.

[0046] 87A-88B illustrate an exemplary method for determining the center of gravity. The center of gravity (CG) of the device 100 is dependent on the gravitational field and is the location where the mass distribution is equal in all directions. As shown in FIG. 87A, the hair care device 100 can be divided into an device portion 100A and a power supply portion 100B. The CG can be determined in the device portion 100A by measuring the mass and location of components contained within the handle 110 and the body 120. The CG was determined using computer-aided design software configured with a center of gravity feature that defines the location of components based on design parameters and assigns the mass of components based on their material type.

[0047] In the illustrated embodiment, the location of the CG of the instrument portion 100A is shown in Figure 87B with the instrument 100 in a straight configuration. The illustrated CG is located 150.5 mm from the base of the handle 110 (e.g., where the inlet 112 is located) as measured along axis A extending through the center of the instrument portion 100A. The CG has been displaced radially outwardly from axis A by 0.6 mm, such that it is positioned on axis B extending through the CG.

[0048] In Fig. 88A, the hair care device 100 is shown in an angled configuration. In Fig. 88B, the CG of the device portion 100A is located 137.1 mm from the base of the handle 110 (e.g., where the inlet 112 is located) as measured along an axis A extending through the center of the device portion 100A. The CG has been moved radially outward from axis A and is located 12.0 mm from axis A, as shown by axis C extending through the CG.

[0049] In Figures 89A-C, the locations of the PCB 420, motor 520, and heater assembly 600 are shown for the straight configuration of the instrument portion 100A, measured from the base of the handle 110 (e.g., where the inlet 112 is located). As shown in Figure 89A, the center of the PCB 420 is located 82.43 mm from the base of the handle 110. As shown in Figure 89B, the center of the motor 520 is 150.63 mm from the base of the handle 110. As shown in Figure 89C, the center of the heater assembly 600 is 255.11 mm from the base of the handle 110. In Figure 90, the location of the center of the heater assembly 600 is shown for the angled configuration of the instrument portion 100A. The position of the heater assembly 600 may be measured from an axis A that extends from the base of the handle 110 (e.g., where the inlet 112 is located) through the center of the handle 110 and body 120. In the angled configuration, the heater assembly may be 56.29 mm from axis A and 189.22 mm from axis D, which corresponds to the base of the handle 110. The positions of the PCB 420 and motor 520 in the angled configuration may be the same as described in connection with Figures 89A-C corresponding to their positions in the straight configuration of the equipment portion 100A.

[0050] User Interface The handle may also include a user interface 401 to allow a user to provide inputs for operating the device, as shown in Figure 20. In particular, the user interface may include one or more buttons or switches for powering the hair care device on and off, adjusting the temperature setting of the heater assembly (and thus adjusting the temperature of the fluid heated by the heater assembly), and adjusting the fan speed of the fan assembly (and thus adjusting the rate of fluid discharged through the outlet). The user interface may also provide a button or switch for disengaging the heater assembly, thereby providing cool, unheated fluid through the outlet.

[0051] Although the user interface can be positioned in a variety of locations, in an exemplary embodiment, the user interface 401 extends longitudinally along at least a portion of the handle 110. As shown in FIG. 20, the user interface extends from the base or distal end of the handle and intersects with the filter assembly 200 as shown, and can further extend toward the joint of the rotating hinge 300, terminating a short distance from the rotating hinge joint 300. The user interface 401 can be provided on a scalloped portion of the handle with raised edges along opposing sides of the user interface 401 to facilitate gripping of the handle 110 by the user. The user interface 401 can extend between the first handle housing 114a and the second handle housing 114b. In another embodiment, the user interface 401 can intersect with the filter 230.

[0052] Wiring coupling the user interface to electrical components (e.g., a printed circuit board) can be routed to the side of the user interface rather than directly underneath it to ensure that fluid pathways are not restricted or that fluid flow is not restricted.

[0053] As indicated above, the user interface 401 may include one or more buttons or engagement features configured to control operation of the hair care device based on user input. For example, the user interface 401 may include a blowing feature 402. The blowing feature 402 may deactivate the heater assembly 600, thereby allowing only unheated air to be discharged through the outlet. In some embodiments, the blowing feature 402 may be located remotely from the user interface 401 or within the user interface 401, but may be located remotely from other features of the user interface.

[0054] The user interface 401 may also include a fan settings feature 404. The fan settings feature 404 may be configured to control the speed of the fan assembly 500. The fan settings feature 404 may be repeatedly selectable such that the fan assembly 500 generates high, medium, and low fluid flows.

[0055] The user interface 401 may also include a temperature setting feature 406. The temperature setting feature 406 may be configured to control the temperature of the heater assembly 600, and thus the fluid flow exiting the outlet 122 of the hair care device 100. The temperature setting feature 406 may be repeatedly selectable to heat the fluid flow to a very high, high, medium, or low temperature. In some embodiments, a high temperature setting may cause the heater assembly to heat the fluid flow to 100° C.

[0056] 20, the user interface 401 can include a power feature 410. The power feature 410 can be configured to control the delivery of power from a power source to the electrical components of the hair care device. The user interface 401 can include one or more tactile features 408, as indicated above. The tactile features 408 can be raised edges or gripping features configured to improve grip and dexterity by a user when holding or manipulating the hair care device.

[0057] In some embodiments, the features of the user interface 401 can be configured to avoid accidental engagement by the user. For example, the features can be recessed and require a positive engagement to trigger a particular user engagement feature. A low profile or recessed design for the buttons or switches of the user interface allows the user to operate the hair care device without accidentally touching an unintended button or switch. In some embodiments, any feature of the user interface 401 described herein can be configured with an illumination or illuminating member that can illuminate a surface of the user interface 401, such as a button, switch, or an inner or bottom surface of the user interface. The configurations and styles of user interface features described herein can be provided in a variety of non-limiting configurations on the handles of the hair care devices described herein.

[0058] electronics As indicated above, the hair care device can include a power source coupled to the inlet end (e.g., proximal end) of the handle. The power source can pass through the inlet end and can provide power to electrical components configured inside the handle and body. The electrical components can be coupled to the power source via cables or wiring. The electrical components can include a portion of a fan assembly (e.g., a motor), a portion of a heater assembly (e.g., a heat generating member), and one or more printed circuit boards (PCBs). The PCBs can be disposed within a fluid passageway inside the handle and can be positioned relative to one another such that a gap between the PCBs allows fluid to more easily flow through the fluid passageway in the handle. For example, a first PCB can be disposed above or below a second PCB, and a gap can separate the two PCBs. Advantageously, disposing the PCBs within the fluid passageway can also allow cooling of components configured on the PCBs.

[0059] The PCBs can include components, such as resistors or capacitors, that can be disposed on the PCBs. The placement of the PCB components can be configured to maximize fluid flow across the PCB. For example, the PCB components can be aligned with a longitudinal axis of a fluid passage, rather than aligned laterally with the fluid passage, to provide more efficient fluid flow within the fluid passage across the PCB.

[0060] The electrical components of the hair care device can be coupled to each other and to a power source via one or more connectors. The connectors can mate to a portion of the wiring and can be electrically coupled to the electrical components. The connectors can be positioned to ensure that fluid flow is maintained through the fluid passages and that fluid flow is not reduced. For example, the connectors can be positioned down on the PCB as close to the power source as possible. In some embodiments, the connectors associated with the motor and heater assembly can be located at a distal end of the PCB (e.g., the end of the PCB closest to the motor and heater assembly) and can include longitudinally oriented wiring parallel to the fluid passages. The wiring between the connectors can also be oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis of the handle, the body, and the fluid passages extending between the inlet and outlet. In some embodiments, the user interface (UI) PCB assembly can be separated from the main PCB assembly to reduce hair ingress from the UI.

[0061] FIG. 21 illustrates the internal electrical components of the hair care device. As shown, the handle 110 can receive a power source, which can be electrically coupled to one or more PCBs 420. The PCBs 420 can further be electrically coupled to one or more features 402, 404, 406, 410 of the user interface 401 described in connection with FIG. 20. The PCBs 420 can also be electrically coupled to a fan assembly 500 and to a heater assembly 600 disposed within the body 120 of the hair care device 100. Electrical coupling between the PCBs and the power source 410, the user interface features 402, 404, 406, 410, the fan assembly 500, and the heater assembly 600 can be achieved via one or more connectors and via one or more wires. For example, wires W can be configured to couple the PCBs 420 to the heater assembly 600. The wiring W can be configured peripherally relative to an opening extending through the rotating hinge joint 300 so as not to impede or reduce fluid flow through the handle 110 and the rotating hinge joint 300 into the body 120.

[0062] 21 illustrates by dashed lines the fluid path P that flows through and above the electrical components. The arrangement of the PCBs 420, user interface features 402, 404, 406, 410, and wiring W can be configured to maximize fluid flow with minimal drop in velocity or pressure as the fluid passes along the fluid path F. Flow diverters 504 can further aid in efficient fluid flow distribution to the fan assembly 500.

[0063] As shown in FIG. 22, the first PCB 420a and the second PCB 420b can be separated from each other by a gap or space 430. The height or size of the gap or space 430 can be configured to maximize fluid flow within the fluid passageway extending through the handle and up / around the PCBs 420. In some embodiments, the gap can be 1.5 mm to 2.0 mm. In a particular exemplary embodiment, the gap can be 1.84 mm. The second PCB 420b can be configured to control the user interface and external control members. The second PCB 420b may be positioned to limit the ingress of hair into the first PCB 420A. As further shown in FIG. 22, the PCBs 420 can include a number of different electrical components, including, but not limited to, connectors 440, capacitors 450, processors 460, as well as resistors, transistors, diodes, circuits, sensors, or electromechanical members. A heat sink or shield 470 can also be configured for one or more of the PCBs 420. In some embodiments, the electrical component 400 can weigh 46.1 g.

[0064] 23, the PCBs 420 may include a metal oxide varistor (MOV) 480. The PCBs 420 may also include a negative temperature coefficient (NTC) sensor 490. The MOVs 480 and NTC sensors 490 may be positioned on the PCBs 420 to reduce fluid flow resistance due to the geometry of the MOVs 480 and NTC sensors 490. For example, the MOVs 480 and NTC sensors 490 may be mounted vertically as shown in FIG. 23 such that a narrow cross section of each component is in contact with the fluid flow passing through the fluid passage P.

[0065] The electrical component 400 may be coupled to a power source 410. As shown in FIG. 68, the power source 410 may be coupled to a power cord 130. The power cord 130 may include an EMC housing 6800 configured between an end terminal of the power cord 130 and the hair care device 100. The EMC housing 6800 may include a cover or housing 6805. As shown in FIG. 69, the housing 6805 has been removed to illustrate a front view of the electrical component 6810, which may be disposed on a PCB 6815 inside the EMC housing 6800. A back side of the PCB 6815 can be seen in FIG. 70.

[0066] As explained above, the placement of electrical components on the PCBs is optimized to maintain fluid flow along the fluid paths. Similarly, the PCBs may include spaces or gaps between two PCBs, allowing fluid to flow around each PCB through the gap. In this way, the electrical components on the PCBs receive a cooling effect from the fluid flow, and because the fluid flow path is unobstructed, the fluid flow is maintained with minimal loss of fluid velocity.

[0067] Fan Assembly As indicated above, the fan assembly 500 is positioned downstream of the electrical components. The location of the fan assembly 500 is designed to balance the interior of the handle 110 and to be located close to the rotational hinge joint 300 to improve fluid flow. The fan assembly generally includes a motor coupled to a multi-bladed impeller or fan. Locating the motor inside the handle where the user grips the hair care device advantageously reduces motor vibration during operation. In operation, the motor can rotatably drive the fan to draw fluid into the inlet of the handle and into the fluid passageway. Fluid can be drawn toward the fan and directed past the heater assembly and out of the hair care device via the outlet.

[0068] As shown in FIG. 24, the fan assembly 500 is positioned along the fluid path P forward of the electrical component 400 and along the fluid path just downstream of the rotational hinge joint at the distal end of the handle. In this manner, the fan assembly can provide improved fluid flow, such as in an angled configuration, through the rotational hinge joint and into the heater assembly and to an outlet in the body with minimal degradation of fluid flow. The placement of the fan assembly 500 within the handle 110 can also advantageously reduce vibration of the fan assembly 500 during operation as a result of the blocking effect of a user's hand. In some embodiments, the fan assembly 500 can weigh 71.6 g.

[0069] As shown, the fan assembly 500 includes a housing 506 that encases the motor and fan blades of the fan assembly 500. In some embodiments, the fan assembly housing 506 can be a rubber isolation damper. The fan assembly 500 can also include a flow diverter 504. The flow diverter 504 can be configured in a fluid passage P that extends from the inlet 112 to the outlet 122. In particular, the flow diverter 504 can include a dome-shaped portion 508 coupled to the annular frame 510 by one or more dome supports 512. The dome-shaped portion 508 can be configured to distribute the fluid flow radially through the fan assembly housing 506 and onto the periphery of the fan blades. In this manner, the fan blades of the fan housed within the fan housing 506 can receive a uniform distribution of the fluid flow, enabling the fan to generate a uniform fluid flow distribution downstream of the fan assembly 500 (e.g., toward the outlet 122).

[0070] As shown in FIG. 25 , the fan assembly 500 can include a motor 520 and a fan 530. The fan 530 can be coupled to a central shaft extending from the motor 520. The fan 530 can include a number of fan blades 532. In operation, the motor 520 can rotatably drive the fan 530 and can draw fluid into the inlet of the handle 110 and along the fluid passage toward the flow diverter 504. The dome-shaped portion 508 can distribute the fluid flow to the outer edges of the fan blades 532 such that the fluid volume and the fluid velocity can be efficiently maintained. The fluid flow can pass from the fan blades 532 to the motor frame 522. The motor frame 522 can include curved vanes disposed downstream of the fan to smooth and straighten the fluid flow exiting the fan. The fan assembly 500 can direct the fluid flow through the rotational hinge joint 300 and towards a flow diverter 602 disposed upstream (e.g., towards the fan assembly 500) of a heater assembly 600 disposed within the body 120. In some embodiments, the fan assembly can generate a fluid flow at a velocity between 25 m / s and 35 m / s.

[0071] Heater Assembly As indicated above, the hair care device may include a heater assembly in the body 120. The heater assembly may be configured to control the temperature of the fluid flow between 60°C and 100°C. The heater assembly may be spaced apart from the rotating hinge joint to provide a smooth and uniform fluid flow into the heater assembly. The heater assembly may be positioned within a fluid passageway extending through the body and may heat the fluid as it is delivered to an outlet of the body. The heater assembly may include an inner support structure having a central shaft and a number of planar segments extending radially along and from the central shaft. The planar segments may have cutouts to ensure maximum fluid flow as the fluid passes through the heater assembly. One or more heating elements may be disposed on the planar segments and may be coupled to PCBs in the handle via cables or wiring. The heater assembly wiring may be disposed immediately adjacent to and along the inner surfaces of the handle, the rotating hinge joint, and the body such that the fluid passageway is not obstructed to reduce fluid flow. The heater assembly 600 may further contain an ionizer 7100, shown in Figure 71. The ionizer 7100 may include an ionizer emitter 7105 located within the heating fluid passage P. In some embodiments, the heater assembly 600 may weigh 29.9 g.

[0072] The heater assembly may also include at least one thermistor and at least one fuse, each of which may be electrically coupled to the PCBs via wiring. The thermistor may be configured to measure temperature data of a fluid flowing through the heater assembly. The fuse may be configured as a safety switch or an electrical interrupter that, in the event of a fault, interrupts the current supplied to the heating element to prevent overheating of the heater assembly. The thermistor and fuse may be located at the outlet end of the body and may be positioned on the upper side of the heater assembly to further ensure that the fluid flow through the heater assembly is evenly distributed between the upper and lower sides of the heater assembly and is evenly distributed radially within the body. In some embodiments, the thermistor and fuse may be located on the same planar segment. In other embodiments, the thermistor and fuse may be located on different planar segments. In some embodiments, the heater assembly may include a thermal interrupter (TCO) configured on the planar segment and electrically coupled to the thermistor and fuse. The TCO may be a resettable thermal control element and may be programmed to cut off power to the heating element when the temperature of the fluid exceeds a predetermined threshold.

[0073] FIG. 26 illustrates the heater assembly 600 in more detail. As shown, the heater assembly includes a plurality of heating elements 604 arranged on one or more planar segments 606 of an inner support structure 608. Wiring W can electrically couple the heater assembly 600 to the electrical components 400 and power source 410 described in connection with FIG. 21 for providing power to the heater assembly 600. The wiring W can be routed through the rotation hinge joint 155 along the inner surface of the body frame that forms the periphery of the rotation hinge joint 300. In this manner, fluid flow disturbances within the fluid passageway past the rotation hinge joint 300 can be minimized and flow velocity and pressure can be maintained with an evenly distributed flow pattern provided to the heater assembly 600.

[0074] As shown in FIG. 27, one or more of the planar segments 606 may include a cutout portion 606c configured to equalize the fluid flow through the heater assembly 600. The cutout portion 606c may allow the fluid flow to be equalized in a uniform manner as it flows through the heater assembly 600. The cutout portion 606c may allow the planar segment 606 to support the heating member 604 and may also allow the fluid flow to form a space for the fluid flow to be equalized and evenly distributed as it flows through the heater assembly 600. The cutout portion 606c may have a variety of shapes and sizes, without limitation. For example, the cutout portion 606c may include a rectangular shape, a square shape, a circular shape, a geometric shape, or an elliptical shape. In some embodiments, the cutout portion 606c may extend longitudinally along a majority of the planar segment 606. In some embodiments, the cutout portion 606c may extend radially on the planar segment 606. In some embodiments, the cutout portion 606c can extend in a curved pattern on the planar segment.

[0075] In some embodiments, the planar segments 606 can be configured in a variety of non-limiting configurations relative to a central portion of the inner support structure 608. For example, the planar segments can be arranged as spokes extending radially outward from a central portion of the inner support structure 608. In some embodiments, the inner support structure 608 can include additional configurations of the planar segments 606 that may not be formed relative to the central portion of the inner support structure 608, such as a helical configuration of the planar segments 606, a box-shaped configuration of the planar segments 606, or a cylindrical configuration of the planar segments 606. The ionizer 7100 can be coupled to the planar segments 606.

[0076] 28, the heating elements 604 may be disposed on and extend around the planar segments 606. A variety of non-limiting shapes or configurations may be envisioned for the heating elements 604. The heating elements 604 may be electrically coupled to wires W such that when power is received, the heating elements 604 may radiate heat and transfer the heat to a fluid flowing through the heater assembly 600. An outer cylindrical housing 610 may surround the heater assembly.

[0077] One or more electrical components may also be included within the heater assembly 600. For example, a thermistor 615 may be disposed within the fluid passageway and may be electrically coupled to the wire W via wires 612 and 614. The wires 612 and 614 may form a U-shaped configuration with respect to the thermistor 615. Other wiring configurations are contemplated. The heater assembly 600 may also include a fuse 620 that may be electrically coupled to the wire W. The fuse 620 may provide a safety mechanism that will shut off the heater assembly (and the hair care appliance) if the temperature of the heater assembly exceeds a predetermined temperature threshold. The heater assembly may also include a thermal shutoff member electrically coupled to the wire W. The thermal shutoff member may be a programmable and resettable electrical safety member to alter the predetermined temperature threshold.

[0078] In use, the heater assembly 600 is configured to maintain optimal fluid flow through the heating element to the outlet. The thermistors and fuses can be positioned to ensure even radial fluid flow distribution. The planar segments of the inner support structure can have cutouts to ensure maximum flow of fluid across and over the heating element.

[0079] fluid passage As indicated above, the hair care device 100 has a fluid passageway P extending between the inlet 120 of the handle 110 and the outlet 125 of the body 120. As indicated above, a first flow diverter 504 is positioned within the handle 110 and a second flow diverter 602 is positioned within the body 120.

[0080] The flow divider 602 may be configured as a baffle structure and divides the fluid flow directed from the fan assembly 500 into a separate uniform upper flow path F into the heater assembly 600. u and lower collateral F Land the flow diverter 602. Without the flow diverter 602, the fluid flow would tend to accumulate at the top of the heater assembly 600, with less fluid flow passing through the bottom of the heater assembly 600. The flow diverter 602 can address this issue by allowing equal amounts of fluid to flow into the heater assembly 600, thereby transferring an even heat distribution to the equal amounts of fluid. Advantageously, the flow diverter 602 can minimize flow drop for the fluid entering the heater assembly 600. In an exemplary embodiment, the flow diverter 602 includes rounded, non-sharp edges to prevent turbulence as the fluid passes over and around the flow diverter 602. Additionally, the flow diverter 602 can maintain the flow rate, static fluid pressure, and top-to-bottom pressure gradient between the top and bottom of the heater assembly 600 in both the straight and angled configurations of the hair care device described herein. 30, the fan assembly cover has been removed from the fan assembly 500 for illustration of the fluid path P. In some embodiments, the fluid path P can be a sealed fluid path such that loss of fluid flow from the instrument to the environment is minimized.

[0081] In an exemplary embodiment, in the angled configuration, the hair care device described herein can achieve a maximum flow rate:minimum flow rate ratio of 1.7 at a pressure drop of 1700 Pa along the length of the fluid passage, and in the straight configuration, the hair care device can achieve a maximum flow rate:minimum flow rate ratio of 1.6 at a pressure drop of 1900 Pa along the length of the fluid passage. Thus, the flow rate ratio of maximum flow rate to minimum flow rate for the angled configuration versus the straight configuration is 94-95%. Thus, the fluid flow rate in the angled configuration is only 5%-6% less than the fluid flow rate in the straight configuration. The hair care device can advantageously maintain and provide substantially equivalent flow rates in either the straight or angled configuration, with minimal flow rate loss in the angled configuration.

[0082] As shown in FIG. 31, plot S illustrates velocity (m / s) data for fluid flow through the hair care appliance in a straight configuration. As shown, the velocity of the fluid flow shows minimal change as the fluid flows from the handle 110 through the rotating hinge joint 300 into contact with the flow diverter 602. Advantageously, the flow diverter 602 allows a generally even distribution of the upper and lower portions of the fluid flow to pass into the heater assembly 600 of the body 120 with minimal or no change in fluid velocity in the straight configuration of the hair care appliance. The generally even distribution of the fluid flow prevents overheating inside the heater and provides a stable heat output. The resulting flow output at the outlet 122 further illustrates the stable, substantially equal fluid velocity exiting the upper and lower portions of the outlet 122 due to the configuration of the flow diverter 602. In the straight configuration, velocities (m / s) were measured 1 inch (25.4 mm) from the outlet 122 and 4 inches (101.6 mm) from the outlet 122 at high, medium, and low speed settings of the fan assembly 500. The results are shown in Table 1.

[0083] [Table 1]

[0084] As shown in FIG. 32, plot B illustrates velocity (m / s) data for fluid flow through a hair care device described herein in an angled configuration. As shown, the velocity of the fluid flow shows minimal change as the fluid flows from the handle 110 through the rotating hinge joint 300 into contact with the flow diverter 602. Advantageously, the flow diverter 602 allows an even distribution of the upper and lower portions of the fluid flow in the angled configuration of the hair care device to pass into the heater assembly 600 of the body 120 with minimal or no change in fluid velocity. The resulting flow output at the outlet 122 further illustrates a stable, substantially equal fluid velocity exiting the upper and lower portions of the outlet 122 due to the configuration of the flow diverter 602. In the angled configuration, velocities (m / s) were measured 1 inch (25.4 mm) from the outlet 122 and 4 inches (101.6 mm) from the outlet 122 at high, medium, and low speed settings of the fan assembly 500. The results are shown in Table 2.

[0085] [Table 2]

[0086] Comparing the velocity data associated with the straight configuration to the angled configuration, angling the fluid passageway results in only a minimal decrease in the fluid flow velocity at each velocity setting. For example, at the high speed setting in the angled configuration, the fluid flow velocity measured 1 inch (25.4 mm) from the outlet 122 is 89% of the fluid flow observed in the straight configuration (e.g., 31.8 vs. 35.6). At the high speed setting in the angled configuration, the fluid flow velocity measured 4 inches (101.6 mm) from the outlet 122 is 93% of the fluid flow in the straight configuration (e.g., 25.9 vs. 27.8). At the medium speed setting in the angled configuration, the fluid flow velocity measured 1 inch (25.4 mm) from the outlet 122 is 103% of the fluid flow in the straight configuration (e.g., 25.5 vs. 24.8). At the medium speed setting in the angled configuration, the velocity of the fluid flow measured 4 inches (101.6 mm) from the outlet 122 is 96% of the fluid flow in the straight configuration (e.g., 20.0 vs. 20.8). At the low speed setting in the angled configuration, the velocity of the fluid flow measured 1 inch (25.4 mm) from the outlet 122 is 92% of the fluid flow in the straight configuration (e.g., 20.9 vs. 22.7). At the low speed setting in the angled configuration, the velocity of the fluid flow measured 4 inches (101.6 mm) from the outlet 122 is 92% of the fluid flow in the straight configuration (e.g., 17.4 vs. 18.9). Advantageously, at a medium speed setting, the velocity of fluid flow through the hair device in an angled configuration is greater than the velocity of fluid flow in a straight configuration when measured 1 inch (25.4 mm) from the outlet 122 (e.g., 25.5 m / s vs. 24.8 m / s).

[0087] Thus, the configuration of the device and the various internal components allow for a fluid passageway with uniform and consistent fluid flow across the diameter of the handle and body between the inlet and outlet in both straight and angled configurations. The configuration of the first diverter 504 can provide uniform, radially distributed fluid flow through the handle to the blades of the fan assembly so that the fan does not accelerate the fluid flow unevenly into the heater assembly in the body. The configuration of the second diverter 602 can provide balanced fluid flow to the top and bottom sides of the heater assembly so that a uniform distribution of fluid is provided through the heater assembly and out of the hair care device through the outlet in the body. Based on the evenly spaced air flow, the heater may operate at a higher temperature because heat buildup on the sides of the heater is prevented during use.

[0088] Accessory Engagement As indicated above, the hair care device may be further configured to engage one or more accessories for a user selected hair styling or hair treatment. The one or more attachments may have any configuration, such as a concentrator, diffuser, curling iron, curling brush, round brush, flat brush, comb, etc. The attachments may be releasably coupled to an outlet in the body of the hair care device and may be secured in place via one or more engagement features configured at the outlet of the body and / or on an engagement portion of the respective attachment.

[0089] In some embodiments, the hair care appliance can include attachments that are not removable but are permanently attached to the hair care appliance. For example, a brush can be permanently attached and the hair care appliance can be in a "hot" brush configuration. A "hot" brush configuration can include a fixed, non-detachable brush to the hair care appliance as described herein.

[0090] In some embodiments, the attachment can be configured to sleeve over the body of the hair care device, thereby covering the outlet. The sleeve attachment can further extend over the straightened rotating hinge joint to prevent rotation of the device. Sleeving over the rotating hinge joint can provide additional structural support to the hinge during use. Sleeving over the rotating hinge can also prevent the shape of the device from changing during use. For example, the hair care device can have a latch or button that allows rotation of the body relative to the handle. In some embodiments, the sleeve attachment can cover the latch or button such that the latch or button cannot be actuated during use of the attachment.

[0091] Various features can also be provided to help prevent rotation of the attachment relative to the body of the instrument. For example, the sleeve-like attachment can include features on the inner surface, such as longitudinally oriented ribs on the inner surface that can engage one or more protrusions on the outer surface of the body housing 124. For example, as shown in FIG. 33, the body housing 124 of the instrument 100 includes a recess 350 adjacent the hinge joint 300 that seats a first protrusion 352a. The first protrusion 352a can engage a portion of the inner surface of the attachment that has slid over the body housing 124. As shown in FIG. 34 with the body housing 124 removed, a second protrusion 352b can be positioned on the opposite side of the body and can protrude from the first body frame 126a. The first protrusion 340a is shown protruding from the second body frame 126b.

[0092] The hair care device 100 can include multiple interchangeable attachment engagement assemblies. For example, a first attachment engagement assembly can include a sleeve-like design to allow the attachment to sleeve over the outlet end of the hair care device 100. A second attachment engagement assembly can include a faceplate engagement design so that the attachment abuts against the outlet end of the hair care device. A third attachment engagement assembly can include an engagement collar configured with protrusions, such as lugs, that can be removably coupled to and secured within the engagement portion of the attachment.

[0093] FIG. 35A shows an enlarged perspective view of an attachment engagement assembly 700 configured at the outlet 122 of the hair care device 100. The attachment engagement assembly 700 can be coupled to the first body frame 126a and to the second body frame 126b. As shown, the attachment engagement assembly 700 includes an engagement collar 702 and an engagement plate 708. The engagement collar 702 can include a number of recesses 704 disposed about a circumference of the engagement collar 702. The recesses 704 can be configured to receive one or more engagement features of an attachment configured for use with the hair care device, as described in more detail below. The attachment can slide over the outlet 122 of the body 120, and the engagement features of the attachment can engage and seat within the recesses 704 of the engagement collar 702 to reduce rotation of the attachment relative to the body 120. Rotation can be reduced or limited by protrusions 706 surrounding either side of a given recess 704.

[0094] Another embodiment 6310 of an attachment engaging assembly can be seen in FIG. 35B. An outlet end 6300 of a body 6305 of a hair care device similar to device 100 can include an attachment engaging assembly 6310. The attachment engaging assembly 6310 can include attachment engaging plates 6114a and 6114b, each of which can include a plurality of slots 6320. When an attachment having an attachment feature, such as the attachment feature 6225 of the concentrator attachment 6200 shown in FIG. 62, is coupled to the outlet end 6300, a user can rotationally drive the concentrator attachment 6200 to engage the attachment feature 6225 within the slots 6114a and 6114b and secure the concentrator attachment 6200 to the hair care device 100.

[0095] The attachment engagement assembly 700 may also include an engagement plate 708 disposed below the engagement collar 702 (e.g., upstream of the outlet 125). The engagement plate 708 may include an upper surface 708u against which a surface of the attachment may abut. The engagement plate 708 may also include an engagement plate shoulder 708s extending from the upper surface 708u. The engagement plate shoulder 708s may be sized and configured for insertion into a receiving portion disposed at a mating end of the attachment.

[0096] 36, the attachment engagement assembly 700 can also include an outlet trim ring 710 coupled to the engagement collar 702. The outlet trim ring 710 can include one or more surface finishes or applied materials. The engagement plate 708 can be coupled to the first body frame 126a and to the second body frame 126b via a snap or friction fit or using other attachment techniques.

[0097] 37, the engagement collar 702 can include an engagement ledge 712. The engagement ledge 712 can be circumferentially disposed on the engagement collar 702 below (e.g., below) the recesses 704 and the protrusions 706. The engagement ledge 712 can be sized and configured to receive one or more engagement features of an attachment. For example, a hook-shaped engagement feature of the attachment can engage with the engagement ledge 712 to couple the attachment to the attachment engagement assembly 700. In some embodiments, the engagement ledge 712 can be divided into multiple segments by one or more slots separating corresponding segments.

[0098] In other embodiments, the attachment engagement assembly can include an engagement collar having protruding features, such as lugs, for engaging with an engagement portion of the attachment to secure the attachment to the outlet end of the hair care device 100. The engagement portion of the attachment can include a slot within which the lugs can be received. The lugs of the engagement collar can engage into openings in the slots in the engagement portion of the attachment, and the attachment can be rotationally driven on the outlet end of the hair care device 100, causing the lugs to move completely within the slots in the engagement portion of the attachment.

[0099] The attachment can be installed or removed from the outlet of the hair care appliance using an attachment actuator assembly configured at the outlet end of the hair care appliance. The attachment actuator assembly can include a user-operable latch configured to secure or remove the attachment from the hair care appliance 100. A user can retract the latch to install or remove the attachment, and release the retracted latch to secure the attachment in place. The latch can couple to a tab insertable into at least one slotted opening in the engagement portion of the attachment. When the tab is inserted into the slotted opening, there is no rotation of the attachment relative to the outlet end of the hair care appliance and the attachment is secured to the hair care appliance.

[0100] FIG. 72 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of an attachment engagement assembly 7200 of the hair care device 100. The attachment engagement assembly 7200 includes an engagement collar 7205 disposed on the outlet 122 and an attachment actuator assembly 7215 disposed on the body housing 124. The engagement collar 7205 can include one or more protrusions 7210. In some embodiments, the protrusions 7210 can be lugs and can protrude from an inner surface of the engagement collar 7205. As shown in FIG. 73, the protrusions 7210 can protrude from an inner surface 7220 of the engagement collar 7205. In some embodiments, the protrusions 7210 can have a teardrop shape, although various shapes can be assumed, without limitation. The shape and dimensions of the protrusions 7210 can correspond to the shape and dimensions of a corresponding receiving portion or slot that can be configured on the engagement portion of the attachment of the hair care device 100. In some embodiments, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 protrusions 7210 can be configured on the inner surface 7220 of the engagement collar 7205. In some embodiments, the protrusions 7210 can be spaced apart along the inner surface 7225 an equal distance between adjacent protrusions 7210. In some embodiments, the protrusions 7210 can be spaced apart along the inner surface an unequal distance between adjacent protrusions 7210.

[0101] The engagement collar 7205 also includes at least one recess 7230 configured to receive a tab or protruding portion of the attachment actuator assembly 7215. The recess 7230 can have a width 7235 that corresponds to the width of the tab or protruding portion of the attachment actuator assembly 7215. When an attachment is engaged with the engagement collar 7205, the protrusion 7210 can move into a slot configured on the engagement portion of the attachment. After the movement is complete, the user can release the latch 7220 (such as the latch shown in FIG. 1 ) of the attachment actuator assembly 7215, which moves the tab portion of the attachment actuator assembly 7215 into the recess 7230, locking the attachment in place and preventing the attachment from rotating.

[0102] The engagement collar 7205 may also include an opening 7240 along the circumference of a bottom portion of the engagement collar 7205. The opening 7240 may receive the attachment actuator assembly 7215 therein. The opening 7240 may have a width 7245 corresponding to a width of the attachment actuator assembly 7215. The engagement collar 7205 may also include one or more shoulder members 7250 protruding from a side of the engagement collar 7205 at one or more locations. The shoulder members 7250 may be configured to allow the engagement collar 7205 to have a friction fit or a snap fit with an outlet ring, such as the outlet ring 7715 shown in FIG. 77. The engagement collar 7205 may also include slots 7255 positioned at one or more locations around the circumference of an outer surface 7260 of the engagement collar 7215. The slots 7255 may be configured to secure the engagement collar 7205 relative to the body housing 124.

[0103] The attachment actuator assembly 7215 may include a latch 7220, as shown in FIG. 72. The latch 7220 may be coupled to a base 7260 of the attachment actuator assembly 7215, as shown in FIG. 74. In some embodiments, the latch 720 may be integral to the base 7260. The base 7260 may be coupled to a compression member 7265 of the attachment actuator assembly 7215. Depressing the latch 7220 may cause the base 7260 to compress the compression member 7265, which retracts the base away from the engagement collar 7205. In some embodiments, the compression member 7265 may be a spring, as shown in FIG. 74. The base 7260 may move within a body frame 7275 of the hair care appliance. The body frame 7275 may correspond to the first body frame 126a or the second body frame 126b, as shown and described in connection with FIG. 7. The base 7260 can also include a protrusion or tab 7280. In some embodiments, the protrusion 7280 can be coupled to the base 7260. The tab 7280 can extend from the base 7260 into the engagement collar 7205, thereby securing the attachment within the engagement collar 7205. For example, after a user couples an attachment to the engagement collar 7205, the user can release the latch 7220. As a result, the compression member 7265 can extend, forcing the base 7260 towards the engagement collar 7205, causing the tab 7280 to extend into the recess 7230 shown in FIG. 73 and into a slot included in the engagement portion of the attachment. In FIG. 75, the engagement collar 7205 has been removed to illustrate the tab 7280 extending from the base 7260 of the attachment actuator assembly 7215. By retracting the latch 7220 , the tab 7280 may be moved away from and removed from the engagement collar 7205 , thereby allowing the attachment to be removed from the body housing 124 .

[0104] The attachment actuator assembly 7215 can be seen in more detail in FIG. 76A, which shows the attachment actuator assembly 7215 engaged with an attachment engaging portion 7600 of an attachment according to embodiments described herein. As shown in FIG. 76A, the body housing 124 has been removed for illustration of the attachment engaging portion 7600 and so that the exterior of the attachment engaging portion 7600 can be seen. The attachment engaging portion 7600 can include an attachment engaging collar 7605. The attachment engaging collar 7605 can include one or more slots 7610. The slots 7610 can include an opening that can receive the tab 7280. When the latch 7220 is released, the tab 7280 can extend or move into the slot 7610, thereby securing the attachment engaging portion 7600 to the outlet 122 of the body 120 of the hair care device 100. In Figure 76B, a cutaway view of the attachment actuator assembly 7215 engaged with the attachment engaging portion 7600 is shown. The cutaway view shows an internal perspective view of the attachment actuator assembly 7215 engaged with the engagement collar 7205 and the protrusion 7210 engaged with the attachment engaging portion 7600. A user rotates the attachment engaging portion 7600 to contact the engagement collar 7205, thereby moving the protrusion 7210 into the receiving end at the distal end of the slot 7610, as shown in Figure 76B. Once the protrusion 7210 is fully engaged within the slot 7610, the user can release the latch 7220, which can allow the tab 7280 to extend or move into the slot 7610, which can fully secure the attachment engagement portion 7600 (and thus the attachment) to the engagement collar 7205 of the hair-care device 100. Thus, rotation of the attachment relative to the body 120 can be reduced or eliminated.

[0105] The hair care device 100 may also include a grill 7700 configured at the outlet 122, as shown in FIG. 77. The grill 7700 may include a plurality of vane members 7705 extending radially from a central portion 7710. Although the vane members 7705 of the grill 7700 are shown in a radial pattern, various patterns of the vane members 7705 may be envisioned, including, but not limited to, a diagonal pattern, a mesh pattern, or a concentric circular pattern. The outlet 122 may also include an outlet ring 7715. The outlet ring may be coupled to the engagement collar 7205 via a snap fit.

[0106] accessories As explained above, the hair care device can be configured to engage a number of different types of attachments or accessories via interchangeable engagement assemblies on the hair care device 100. The attachments can be included in an accessory kit provided with the hair care device 100 or provided separately from the hair care device 100. Although Figures 38-68 illustrate various exemplary embodiments of attachments for use with the hair care device 100, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that any attachment known in the art may be used with the device 100.

[0107] FIG. 38 illustrates a round brush attachment 3800 including an inlet 3805 that can receive a fluid flow from a hair care device described herein. The round brush attachment 3800 can also include a cover 3810 having a plurality of holes 3815 disposed therein. In some embodiments, the holes 3815 can be filled with bristles. The round brush attachment 3800 can also include an end cap 3820 and a base 3825. The end cap 3820 can include one or more release mechanisms 3830 configured to release a latch mechanism disposed within the round brush attachment 3800 from engagement with features of the attachment engagement assembly 700 described in connection with FIGS. 35-37.

[0108] As shown in FIG. 39, the round brush attachment 3800 can be sleeved over the body 120 of the hair care device 100. The brush attachment 3800 (and other attachment embodiments described herein) can be sleeved over the body 120 over the rotational hinge joint 300. In this way, rotation of the attachment relative to the body 120 can be reduced. Fluid flow provided at the body outlet 120 can pass through the end cap 3820 via a fluid passage P (shown in dashed lines) and can be discharged through an annular shaped outlet 3915 located on the underside of the end cap 3820. The location of the fluid passage 3910 advantageously directs most of the fluid downward along the surface of the round brush attachment 3800, rather than outward from the surface of the round brush attachment 3800. Additionally, the fluid passages 3910 are arranged such that the fluid flow is redirected from a first direction inside the round brush attachment 3800 to a second opposite direction (e.g., downward along the outer surface of the round brush attachment 3800) outside the round brush attachment. By directing the fluid passages at the outlet 3915 in a direction opposite to the direction of entry into the round brush attachment 3800, a curtain effect of fluid can be created downward along the outer surface of the round brush attachment 3800. This arrangement of the fluid passages 3910 prevents hair from moving away from the surface of the brush attachment during use. In some embodiments, a hand guard can be provided at the base 3825 of the round brush attachment 3800. The hand guard can prevent the fluid in the fluid passages 3910 from contacting the user's hands as it moves downward along the outer surface of the round brush attachment 3800.

[0109] As shown in FIG. 40, the attachment engagement assembly 4000 can be positioned between an end cap 3820 and an attachment frame 4005. The attachment frame 4005 can form the body of the round brush attachment 3800 and can sleeve over the outlet end of the body of a hair care device described herein. The attachment engagement assembly 4000 can include one or more release mechanisms 3830 coupled to one side of the engagement assembly plate 4015. The release mechanisms 3830 can be configured to release the latch mechanism 4020 from engagement with the attachment engagement assembly 700 described in connection with the hair care device, as shown in FIGS. 35-37. For example, the latch mechanism 4020 can include a hook-shaped feature configured to engage with an engagement ledge 712 shown in FIG. 37.

[0110] As shown in FIG. 41, the end cap 3820 shown in FIGS. 38-40 has been removed for clarity. The release mechanism 3830 may be located on the top surface of the engagement assembly plate 4015, and the latch mechanism 4020 may be located on the bottom surface of the engagement assembly plate 4015. Actuating the release mechanism 3830 by squeezing it toward the center of the round brush attachment 3800 also causes the latch mechanism 4020 to move toward the center of the round brush attachment. As a result, the hook-shaped engagement feature on the latch mechanism 4020 moves to disengage from the engagement ledge 712 of the attachment engagement assembly 700 in the body of the hair care appliance, thereby allowing the attachment 3800 to be removed from the body of the hair care appliance. Although described in connection with a round brush attachment, in some embodiments, one or more of the attachment engagement assemblies 4000 may be included in any of the attachments described herein.

[0111] As shown in FIG. 42, the round brush attachment 3800 can include a plurality of protrusions 4205 projecting downwardly from a top inner surface of the attachment frame 4005. In some embodiments, the protrusions 4205 can be configured on an engagement plate disposed between the mounting frame 4005 and the engagement assembly plate 4015. In some embodiments, the protrusions can be formed on the mounting assembly plate 4015. The protrusions 4205 can engage with recesses 704 of an attachment engagement assembly 700 configured within the body of the hair care device 100, as shown in FIGS. 35-37, when the attachment is coupled to the hair care device. The protrusions 4205, when engaged within the recesses 704 of the attachment engagement assembly 700, can advantageously limit rotation of the attachment relative to the body of the hair care device 100.

[0112] As further shown in FIG 42, the round brush attachment 3800 may include a plurality of ribs 4210 extending longitudinally along the inner surface of the attachment frame 4005. The ribs 4210 are configured and spaced apart to engage with the protrusions 340a, 340b configured on the body frames 126a, 126b and projecting through the body housing 124, as shown in FIG 33-34. When the round brush attachment 3800 is over the body housing 124, the ribs 4210 may engage with the protrusions 340a, 340b, which may advantageously limit rotation of the round brush attachment 3800 relative to the body of a hair care device described herein.

[0113] Although the configuration of protrusions 4205 and ribs 4210 has been described in relation to the round brush attachment 3800, any attachment described herein may include the configuration of protrusions 4205 and / or ribs 4210 without limitation.

[0114] 43 illustrates a curling attachment 4300 that may include an inlet 4305 fluidly coupled to the body 4114a. The inlet 4305 may be coupled to the outlet end of the hair care device 100 such that fluid exiting the hair care device 100 via the outlet 122 enters the curling attachment 4300 at the inlet 4305. A spindle 4114b may be configured within the body 4114a and coupled to one or more wheels 4320. The wheels 4320 allow a user to manually drive the spindle 4114b in rotation to curl hair. A high velocity air slot 4325 may be provided at the top of the body 4114a.

[0115] As shown in FIG. 44, the fluid flow is illustrated by multiple flow lines extending between the inlet 4305 and the outlet 4330. The fluid entering the inlet 4305 is fed into the concentration chamber 4335 and then guided to the curl chamber 4340 via the conduit 4345. The user can position their hair near the high velocity air slot 4325 on the top of the tool. The high velocity air can engulf the hair, causing it to curl around the spindle 4114b. After leaving the hair to heat for 5-10 seconds, the user can use the blow feature 402 shown on the user interface 401 described in connection with FIG. 20 to help set the style. The hair is then removed from the curl attachment 4300. The spindle 4114b should rotate freely to prevent any binding.

[0116] FIG. 45 illustrates different embodiments of a curl attachment. The curl attachment 4500 shown in FIG. 45 can include an inlet 4505 that can receive a fluid flow from the hair care device 100. The inlet 4505 can be fluidly coupled to a focusing body 4510. The focusing chamber 4510 can be fluidly coupled to a curl chamber 4515. The curl chamber 4515 can include a spindle 4520 and an outlet 4525. In some embodiments, the spindle 4520 can have a tapered shape. The outlet 4252 can include multiple holes for the fluid flow that enters the inlet 4505 to be exhausted from the curl attachment 4505. The curl attachment 4500 can also include an opening 4530 into which a user can provide hair to be curled around the spindle 4520.

[0117] FIG. 46 illustrates another embodiment of a curling attachment 4600 having an inlet 4605 that can receive a fluid flow from the hair care device 100. The fluid flow can enter a concentration chamber 4610 and can be fed to a curl chamber 4615. The curl chamber can be formed in a housing 4620 that includes a number of openings 4625 for exhausting the fluid flow from the curling attachment 4600. The curling attachment 4600 can include a spindle 4630 inside the housing 4620. In some embodiments, the spindle 4630 can have a tapered shape over its length. Hair can be fed into the opening 4635 and can be curled around the spindle 4630.

[0118] In another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 47, a curl attachment is provided that includes a plate 4640 coupled to the end of the concentration chamber 4610 and the curl chamber 4615. The spindle 4630 can rotate relative to the plate 4630. The curl chamber 4615 can include an open end 4645 where curled hair can be removed from the spindle 4630. As shown in FIG. 48, the spindle 4630 can extend from the plate 4640 into the curl chamber 4615. As shown in FIG. 49, a hair 4650 that has not yet been curled can be provided into the opening 4635 and drawn into the opening as a result of a fluid flow provided to the inlet 4605 via a hair care appliance attached to the curl attachment 4600. When the fluid flow passes through the curl attachment 4600, the hair 4650 can be drawn into the curl chamber 4615 and wrapped around the spindle 4630, thereby curling it. The curled hair 4655 can be removed from the curl chamber 4615 at the open end 4645 .

[0119] FIG. 50 illustrates a barrel curl attachment 5000 that may be configured for use with the hair care device 100. The barrel curl attachment 5000 may include an inlet 5005 and a barrel 5010. The barrel 5010 may include a number of plates 5015, such as plates 5015A and 5015B. The plates 5015 may be configured to expand away from a central longitudinal axis of the barrel 5010. The fluid passage may be along the central longitudinal axis of the barrel 5010. A scroll assembly 5020 may be disposed at the outlet end 5025 and the inlet end 5030. The scroll assembly 5050 may allow the plates 5015 to expand radially outward to expand the diameter of the barrel 5020. In this manner, hair may be curled into different curl sizes based on the settings of the scroll 5020. The scroll assemblies 5020 can be individually sized differently such that the barrel tapers from the outlet end 5025 to the inlet end 5030. The barrel curling apparatus 5000 can include a scroll assembly frame 5035 to which the scroll assemblies 5020 can be mounted.

[0120] 51, the scroll assembly 5020 can be in an initial configuration corresponding to the unextended configuration of the plate 5015. The scroll assembly 5020 can include a housing 5040 and one or more attachment tabs 5045 configured to couple the housing 5040 to the scroll assembly frame 5035. The scroll plate 5050 can be disposed within the housing 5040 and can include an adjustment tab 5055 thereon. A user can rotatably actuate the adjustment tab 5055, thereby rotating the plate 5050 within the housing 5040. When a user rotatably actuates the adjustment tab 5055 (thereby rotatably actuating the plate 5050), the extension member 5060 can extend radially outward, thereby driving the plate 5015 away from the central longitudinal axis of the barrel curl attachment 5000.

[0121] As shown in FIG. 52, a user has rotationally actuated the adjustment tab 5055 to a position opposite to that associated with the initial configuration shown in FIG. 51. Thus, the scroll assembly 5020 in FIG. 52 is shown in an extended configuration. Rotationally actuating the adjustment tab 5055 can rotate the scroll plate 5050, which can drive the extension member 5060 radially outward. As a result, the plate 5015 is also extended radially outward. In this manner, the outer diameter of the barrel curl attachment 5000 can be set by the user, thereby allowing hair to be styled with a variety of curl sizes.

[0122] FIG. 53 illustrates an embodiment of a wrap around barrel curl attachment 5300 that may be configured with a rotation mechanism 5305 inside a housing 5310. The wrap around barrel curl attachment 5300 may be configured to wrap hair into a coil, thereby allowing the hair to be repeatedly curled. A fluid passageway 5315 may extend from an inlet 5320 in an inlet housing 5340 of the wrap around barrel curl attachment 5300, through a flow passageway chamber 5325 of the flow passageway housing 5330, to an outlet 5335 configured on a side of the housing 5310. FIG. 54 is an image of the wrap around barrel curl attachment 5300 of FIG. 53.

[0123] FIG. 55 illustrates an embodiment of a round brush attachment 5500 that may include a plurality of plates 5505 extending between an end cap 5510 and a base 5515. The plurality of plates 5505 may include one or more holes 5520 and one or more slots 5525 configured on each corresponding plate 5505. In some embodiments, brush bristles may be configured on one or more plates 5505. Various sizes and configurations of holes may be envisioned for the plates 5505, without limitation. The round brush attachment 5500 may include a fluid passage therein that extends from an inlet 5530 through an interior volume of the round brush attachment 5500 and is further vented through the holes 5520 and / or slots 5525.

[0124] The plates 5505 can be positioned within the end cap 5510 and the base 5515 such that each plate 5505 can articulate in a rotational manner around the circumference of the round brush attachment 5500. For example, when a user pulls the brush attachment 5500 through hair in a first direction, the plates 5505 can rotate clockwise relative to a central longitudinal axis extending through the round brush attachment 5500. The plates 5505 can be parallel to the central longitudinal axis of the round brush attachment 5500. When a user pulls the brush attachment 5500 through hair in a second direction opposite the first direction, the plates can rotate counterclockwise relative to the central longitudinal axis of the round brush attachment 5500. Based on the direction of rotation of the plates, the fluid passages can vent fluid from the holes 5520 and / or the slots 5525.

[0125] As shown in FIG. 56A, the round brush attachment 5500 is shown in a neutral position. In this position, the outlet 5535 disposed within the fluid passageway is prevented from providing fluid flow through the plate 5505. As shown in FIG. 56B, when the round brush attachment 5500 is actuated in a first orientation, the plate 5505 rotates clockwise, opening the outlet 5535 and providing fluid flow through the holes 5520. As shown in FIG. 56C, when the round brush attachment 5500 is actuated in a first or second orientation, the plate 5505 rotates counterclockwise, opening the outlet 5535 and providing fluid flow through the slots 5525.

[0126] 57, the base 5515 of the round brush attachment 5500 can include an alignment feature 5540 configured to limit circumferential rotation of the plate 5505. The alignment feature 5540 can include a retaining frame 5545 configured to couple to an end 5550 of the plate 5505 that protrudes through the base 5515 and into the retaining frame 5545.

[0127] 58 illustrates an embodiment of a diffuser 5800 that may include a body portion 5805 and an engagement portion 5810. The body portion 5805 may be an outlet end of the diffuser 5800 where a fluid flow received via an inlet opening 5815 of the engagement portion 5810 may be provided for styling hair. The body portion 5805 may include a plurality of projections 5820 extending spaced apart from an inner surface of the body portion 5820. One or more of the projections may include holes 5825 for directing the fluid flow from the projections 5820.

[0128] The engagement portion 5810 may include one or more release mechanisms 5830. The release mechanisms 5830 may release the latch mechanism 5835 from engagement with the engagement ledge 712 of the attachment engagement assembly 700 described in connection with FIG. 35. The release mechanisms 5830 may be pressed toward the center of the engagement portion 5810 to release the latch mechanism 5835 from the engagement ledge 712. As further shown in FIG. 58, the engagement portion may include a number of detents 5840 disposed on an inner collar 5845 of the engagement portion 5810. The detents 5840 may be received within and engaged with the recesses 704 of the attachment engagement assembly 700 described in connection with FIG. 35. Once engaged, the detents 5840 may limit rotation of the diffuser 5800 relative to the body of the hair care device 100 described herein.

[0129] 59, the diffuser 5800 can include a flow adjustment member 5850 configured to vary the fluid flow rate provided by the diffuser attachment 5800. A user can vary the fluid flow rate by adjusting the flow adjustment member 5850 within the flow adjustment track 5855. The plurality of protrusions 5820 can be actuated relative to the body portion, thereby increasing or decreasing a length of the plurality of protrusions 5820.

[0130] FIG. 60 shows a cross-sectional view of the diffuser attachment 5800. As shown, the disk 5860 can be shaped to have a particular shape configured to redirect air towards the edge of the body portion 5805 of the diffuser 5800. In some embodiments, the disk 5860 is suspended from a central region of the body portion 5805. In this way, the fluid flow is not directly delivered to the central region of the body portion 5805, instead, the fluid flow is redirected towards the circumference of the body portion 5805, which provides a more uniform fluid flow through the protrusions 5820 and holes 5825, 5865. The disk 5860 can be coupled to the inner frame 5870 via a snap fit or a friction fit. The inner frame 5870 can be coupled to the body portion 5805, to the engagement portion 5810, and to the body portion cover 5875. The fluid passageway 5880 through the diffuser attachment 5800 can be seen in FIG. 61.

[0131] FIG. 62 illustrates an embodiment of a collector 6200 that may include a body portion 6205 and an engagement portion 6210. A fluid passageway may extend between an inlet 6215 of the engagement portion 6210 and an outlet 6220 of the body portion 6205. The engagement portion 6210 may include one or more mounting features 6225 that may protrude radially from an engagement collar 6230 and may couple the collector 6200 to an attachment engagement assembly 6300 shown in FIG. 35B. For example, the mounting features 6225 may be received within and secured within the slots 6114a and 6114b. The body portion 6205 may rotate relative to the engagement portion 6210 to allow a user to set the outlet position.

[0132] FIG. 63 illustrates another embodiment of a concentrator 6300 that may include an engagement portion 6305 and a body portion 6310. A fluid passageway may extend from an inlet end 6315 to an outlet end 6320. Fluid flow may be provided through an opening 6325. A variety of non-limiting shapes and dimensions for the opening 6325 may be envisioned. In this embodiment, the concentrator attachment 6300 may include a flow adjustment member 6330 configured to vary the fluid flow rate provided by the concentrator attachment 6300. A user may vary the fluid flow rate by adjusting the flow adjustment member 6330 within the flow adjustment track 6335. A bottom perspective view of the concentrator attachment 6300 is shown in FIG. 64.

[0133] As shown in FIG. 65, the concentrator attachment 6500 can include an engagement portion 6505 and a body portion 6510. A fluid passageway can extend through the concentrator attachment 6500 from an inlet end 6515 to an outlet end 6520. Fluid flow can be provided through the outlet end 6520. A variety of non-limiting shapes and dimensions for the outlet end 6520 can be envisioned. As further shown in FIG. 65, the concentrator attachment 6500 can include a flow adjustment member 6525 configured to vary the fluid flow rate provided by the concentrator attachment 6500. A user can vary the fluid flow rate by adjusting the flow adjustment member 6525 within the flow adjustment track 6530.

[0134] The engagement portion 6505 may include one or more release mechanisms 6535 configured to release the latch mechanism 6540 from an engagement ledge 712 of an attachment engagement assembly 700 included in a hair care device as described herein and as illustrated in FIGS. 35-37. The engagement portion 6505 may also include an engagement collar 6545 that may be inserted into the attachment engagement assembly 700. The engagement collar 6545 may include one or more tab features 6550 that may engage with the engagement ledge 712 and / or a slot that may be configured formed within the engagement ledge 712. The engagement collar 6545 may also include one or more ribs 6550 configured to engage with a slotted portion of the engagement ledge 712. The tab features 6545 and the ribs 6550 may limit or reduce rotation of the concentrator attachment 6500 relative to the body of the hair care device 100 as described herein.

[0135] FIG. 66 illustrates an embodiment of a curling attachment 6600 that may include an engagement portion 6605 and a body portion 6610. An inlet 6615 may be provided in the engagement portion 6605. A fluid passageway may be provided between the inlet 6615 and an outlet 6620. The outlet 6620 may be provided between plates 6625 extending along a central longitudinal axis of the curling attachment 6600. The plates 6625 may be secured between an end cap 6630 and an engagement housing 6635. The plates 6625 may be configured to rotate both clockwise and counterclockwise relative to the central longitudinal axis of the curling attachment 6600 to curl hair in multiple directions.

[0136] As further shown in FIG. 66, the curl attachment 6600 may include one or more release mechanisms 6640 disposed within the engagement housing 6635. The release mechanisms 6640 may release the latch mechanisms 6645 from the engagement ledges 712 of the attachment engagement assembly described in connection with FIGS. 35-37. Depressing the release mechanisms 6640 toward the engagement housing 6635 may cause the latch mechanisms 6645 to release from the engagement ledges 712. As further shown in FIG. 66, the engagement portion 6605 may include an engagement collar 6650. The engagement collar 6650 may include a number of protrusions or detents 6655 that may engage with recesses 704 of the attachment engagement assembly described in connection with FIGS. 35-37. Engagement of the detents 6655 with the recesses 704 may limit or reduce rotation of the curl attachment 6600 relative to the body of the hair care device 100 described herein.

[0137] FIG. 67 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a paddle brush attachment 6700 configured for use with the hair care device 100. As shown in FIG. 67, the paddle brush attachment 6700 can include an engagement portion 6705 and a body portion 6710. A fluid passageway extends through the paddle brush attachment 6700 from an inlet 6715 and leads out of a hole 6720 in the body portion 6710. In some embodiments, one or more holes 6720 can include bristles. Non-limiting configurations can be envisioned for the holes 6720 and bristles on the body portion 6710. In some embodiments, the holes 6720 and bristles can be positioned on a single plane. In other embodiments, the holes 6720 and bristles can wrap around the face of the paddle brush attachment 6700.

[0138] As further shown in FIG. 67, the engagement portion 6705 can include one or more release mechanisms 6725. The release mechanisms 6725 can release the latch mechanism 6730 from the engagement ledge 712 of the attachment engagement assembly described in connection with FIGS. 35-37. Depressing the release mechanisms 6725 toward a central longitudinal axis extending through the paddle brush attachment 6700 causes the latch mechanism 6730 to release from the engagement ledge 712. As further shown in FIG. 67, the engagement portion 6705 can include an engagement collar 6735. The engagement collar 6735 can include a number of protrusions or detents 6740 that can engage with recesses 704 of the attachment engagement assembly described in connection with FIGS. 35-37. Engagement of the detents 6740 with the recesses 704 can limit or reduce rotation of the paddle brush attachment 6700 relative to the body of the hair care device 100 described herein.

[0139] FIG. 78 illustrates an embodiment of a diffuser 7800 configured for use with the attachment engagement assembly 7200 of FIG. 72. The illustrated diffuser 7800 includes a body portion 7805 and an engagement portion 7820. The engagement portion 7280 may correspond to the attachment engagement portion 7600 described in connection with FIGS. 76A-B. The body portion 7805 may be an outlet end of the diffuser 7800 where a fluid flow received through an opening 7825 in the engagement portion 7820 may be provided for hair styling. The body portion 7805 may include a plurality of projections 7810 extending spaced apart from an inner surface of the body portion 7805. One or more of the projections 7810 may include holes 7815 for directing the fluid flow from the projections 7810.

[0140] The engagement portion 7820 may include an engagement collar 7830 configured with one or more slots 7835. The slots 7835 may correspond to the slots 7610 described in connection with the attachment engagement portion 7600 illustrated and described in FIGS. 76A-B. The slots 7835 may include an opening 7840 and a receiving end 7845. The projection 7210 of the attachment engagement assembly 7200 may be inserted into the opening 7840 of the slots 7835 and may move to the receiving end 7845 when a user rotates the attachment on the outlet end 122 of the body housing 124. When the projection 7210 reaches the receiving end 7845, the user may release the latch 7220, which may move the tab 7280 toward the outlet end 122 and position it within the opening 7840 and the slots 7835. In this manner, the tab 7820 can fill a portion of the slot 7835 to prevent the projection 7210 from rotating away from or out of the receiving end 7845. As a result, the attachment can be secured relative to the body housing 124, and rotation of the attachment relative to the body housing is significantly reduced or eliminated. Retracting the latch 7220 can move the tab 7280 out of the slot 7835, and when a user rotates the attachment to remove it from the body housing 124, the projection 7210 can move from the receiving end 7845 into the opening 7840, thereby disengaging the attachment from the body housing 124 of the hair care device 100. The attachment engaging portion 7220 may be configured on any of the attachments described herein, and is specifically shown with respect to the attachment embodiments shown in FIGS. 78-84B.

[0141] The diffuser 7800 may also include a flow adjustment member 7850 configured to vary the fluid flow rate provided by the diffuser attachment 7800, as shown in Fig. 79. A user may vary the fluid flow rate by adjusting the flow adjustment member 7850 within the flow adjustment track 7855.

[0142] FIG. 80 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the diffuser attachment 7800. As shown, the baffle 7870 can be configured to redirect air towards the edges of the body portion 7805 of the diffuser 7800. In some embodiments, the baffle 7870 can be disk shaped. In some embodiments, the baffle 7870 is suspended from a central region of the body portion 7805. In this manner, the fluid flow is not provided directly to the central region of the body portion 7805, instead, the fluid flow is redirected towards the circumference of the body portion 7805, which provides a more uniform fluid flow through the protrusions 7810 and holes 7815, 7865. The baffle 7870 can be coupled to an extension member 7875 that protrudes from a bottom surface of the body surface cover 7865. In this manner, the baffle 7870 can be suspended from a bottom surface of the body surface cover 7865. In some embodiments, the baffle 7870 may include holes therein for airflow inlets or outlets. In some embodiments, the baffle 7870 may not include holes therein. The protrusions 7810 may be coupled via a frame 7880 disposed within the body portion 7805. The frame 7880 may be formed as a lattice or matrix structure with openings 7885 therein for the fluid passageway to travel through the frame 7880. The fluid passageway 7890 through the diffuser attachment 7800 can be seen in FIG.

[0143] FIG. 82A illustrates another exemplary embodiment of a concentrator attachment configured for use with a hair care device 100 including the attachment engagement assembly 7200 of FIG. 72. A fluid passageway can extend from an inlet end 8205 to an outlet end 8210. Fluid flow can be provided through the opening 8210. A variety of non-limiting shapes and dimensions for the opening 8210 can be envisioned. In this embodiment, the concentrator attachment 8200 can include a flow adjustment member 8220 configured to vary the fluid flow rate provided by the concentrator attachment 8200. A user can vary the fluid flow rate by adjusting the flow adjustment member 8220 within the flow adjustment track 8225. A bottom perspective view of the concentrator attachment 8200 is shown in FIG. 82B. A side perspective view of the concentrator attachment 8200 is shown in FIG. 82C. As shown in FIG. 82C, the outlet end 8210 can include an opening 8230. A variety of non-limiting shapes and dimensions for the opening 8230 may be envisioned.

[0144] FIG. 83A illustrates another exemplary embodiment of a curling attachment 8300 configured for use with a hair care device 100 including the attachment engagement assembly 7200 illustrated and described in connection with FIG. 72. The curling attachment 8300 may include an engagement portion 7820 and a body portion 8305. An inlet 8315 may be provided in the engagement portion 7820. A fluid passageway may be provided between the inlet 8315 and the outlet 8320. The outlet 8320 may be provided between plates 8310 extending along a central longitudinal axis of the curling attachment 8300. The plates 8310 may be secured between an end cap 8325 and the engagement portion 7820. The plates 8310 may be configured to rotate both clockwise and counterclockwise with respect to a central longitudinal axis of the curling attachment 8300 to curl hair in multiple directions.

[0145] As shown in FIG. 83B, a portion of the plate 8310 has been removed to illustrate the interior frame 8330 of the curl attachment 8300. The frame 8330 can include a number of outlet ports 8335 formed between frame members of the frame 8330. Fluid passageways can be received via the inlet 8315 and can pass through the interior of the frame 8330, through the openings 8335, and out of the curl attachment 8300 via the outlet port 8320. A variety of non-limiting shapes and dimensions can be envisioned for the frame 8330 and for the openings 8335 formed by the frame members.

[0146] FIG. 84A illustrates another exemplary embodiment of a round brush attachment 8400 configured for use with a hair care device 100 including the attachment engagement assembly 7200 illustrated and described in connection with FIG. 72. The round brush attachment 8400 can receive a fluid flow from the hair care device 100 via an inlet 8405. The round brush attachment 8400 can include a cover 8410 having a plurality of outlets formed therein that can pass a fluid flow therethrough, such as holes 8415 and slots 8420. The round brush attachment 8400 can include bristles 8425 protruding through the holes 8415. In some embodiments, one or more bristles 8425 can protrude through the holes 8415. The cover 8410 can be positioned between an end cap 8430 and the engagement portion 7820.

[0147] The fluid flow received through the inlet 8405 can be diffused through a diffuser plate 8435 including holes 8440, as shown in FIG. 84B, which illustrates a cross-sectional perspective view of the round brush attachment 8400 of FIG. 84A. Various shapes, sizes, and patterns of holes 8440, without limitation, can be envisioned. The inner body 8450 can include slots 8455, without limitation, various shapes, sizes, and patterns. The fluid flow can be advantageously guided through the baffle 8445 to the holes 8415 and to the slots 8420, 8455. The baffle 8445 can be positioned within the inner body 8450 and can be coupled to the end cap 8430 or can be integral to the end cap 8430. The inner body 8450 can be coupled to the engagement portion 7820 and to the end cap 8430. A gap 8455 can be formed between the exterior surface of the inner body 8450 and the interior surface of the cover 8410. The gap 8455 can be advantageously dimensioned to provide fluid flow through the holes 8415 and the slots 8420. In some embodiments, the baffle 8445 is a hollow structure that does not include an inlet or outlet. In some embodiments, the baffle 8445 can be a solid structure that does not include an inlet or outlet. In some embodiments, the baffle 8445 can be a hollow or solid structure and can include at least one inlet and at least one outlet.

[0148] FIG. 85A illustrates another exemplary embodiment of a paddle brush attachment 8500 configured for use with a hair care device 100 including the attachment engagement assembly 7200 of FIG. 72. The paddle brush attachment 8500 can include an engagement portion 7820 and an inlet 8505. A cover 8510 can be coupled between the engagement portion 7820 and an end cap 8515. The cover 8510 can include a hole 8520 and a slot 8525 configured as an outlet for the paddle brush attachment 8500. Various shapes, dimensions, and patterns can be envisioned for the hole 8520 and the slot 8525, without limitation. A plurality of bristles 8530 can extend through the cover 8510 via the hole 8520. A fluid passageway can extend from the inlet 8505 through the paddle brush attachment 8500 and can exit from the hole 8520 and the slot 8525. In some embodiments, the holes 8520 and bristles 8530 may be positioned in a single plane. In other embodiments, the holes 8520 and bristles 8530 may wrap around the periphery of the surface of the paddle brush attachment 8500.

[0149] Fluid passage through the paddle brush attachment 8500 can be directed toward the face and sides of the paddle brush attachment by a flow diverter 8540, shown in FIG. 85B, which illustrates a cross-sectional perspective view of the paddle brush attachment 8500. The flow diverter 8540 can be positioned inside the paddle brush attachment between the cover 8510 and the housing 8535. The flow diverter 8540 can include a plurality of curved vanes 8545 to direct fluid flow into the interior of the paddle brush attachment 8500. As shown in FIG. 86, the flow diverter 8540 can include a frame 8550 extending between a base 8555 and a head 8560. The base 8555 can include an opening 8565 corresponding to the inlet 8505. Non-limiting, various shapes, numbers, and dimensions of the frame 8550 and vanes 8545 can be envisioned to advantageously redirect the fluid flow received at the opening 8555 along the frame 8550 and toward the holes 8520 and slots 8525 in the cover 8510.

[0150] The attachment engagement mechanism and assembly in the improved hair care appliance described herein generate many advantages. For example, the attachment can be secured to the hair care appliance using a dual engagement technique. First, the attachment engagement mechanism located at the outlet of the body housing (e.g., segmented concentric rings of the engagement collar or hook-shaped features formed as protrusions) can interact with the engagement mechanism of the attachment (e.g., longitudinally oriented ridges or slots), thereby coupling the attachment and the body and reducing rotation of the attachment and the body. The attachment actuator assembly can eliminate rotation of the attachment relative to the body housing by driving to insert a tab into a slot of the engagement portion of the attachment. Second, the attachment can be configured to extend onto the outlet in a sleeve-like configuration. Additionally, the sleeve can enable a more compact design of the hair care appliance when the attachment is secured to the outlet, and can enhance the user experience as a result of the compact design.

[0151] The systems, devices, and methods disclosed herein have been described with respect to certain exemplary embodiments to provide a general understanding of the principles of structure, features, manufacture, and use. One or more examples of these embodiments are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Those skilled in the art will appreciate 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 in other embodiments. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention. Furthermore, in this disclosure, similarly named components in an embodiment generally have similar features, and therefore, within a particular embodiment, each feature of each similarly named component is not necessarily described in full detail.

[0152] When used throughout this specification and the claims, the application of approximation may modify any quantitative expression that may be permissibly changed without changing the basic characteristics to which it pertains. Thus, values ​​modified with terms such as "about", "approximately", and "substantially" are not limited to the exact value specified. In at least some instances, approximation may correspond to the precision of the instrument for measuring the value. Herein, throughout this specification and the claims, range limitations are combinable and / or interchangeable, and such ranges specifically include all subranges contained therein, unless the context or language indicates otherwise.

[0153] 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 cited herein are expressly incorporated by reference in their entirety.

Claims

1. A hair care device comprising:

1. A hair care device comprising: a handle and a body movably coupled to one another at a joint, the body being movable between a straight configuration in which the body is longitudinally aligned with a longitudinal axis of the handle and a bent configuration in which the body extends along an axis transverse to the longitudinal axis of the handle, the handle and the body having a fluid passageway extending therethrough from an inlet in the handle to an outlet in the body, the body having a first flow divider having a planar shape configured to divide fluid in the fluid passageway into uniform upper and lower portions which flow to a heater in the body in both the straight and bent configurations.

2. The hair care device of claim 1 , wherein the first flow diverter extends in a plane transverse to the longitudinal axis of the body.

3. 10. The hair care device of claim 1, further comprising a second flow diverter within the handle, the second flow diverter having a dome-shaped portion.

4. 4. The hair care device of claim 3, wherein the second flow distributor distributes fluid flow in a radially uniform manner within the handle.

5. 10. The hair care device of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the joint extends into the fluid passage such that fluid flow is non-linear through the joint.

6. The hair care device of claim 1 , wherein the joint comprises a rotary joint configured at an angle in the range of 30 degrees to 50 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis of the handle.

7. A hair care device as described in claim 1, wherein the heater is positioned between the first diverter and the outlet, and the first diverter is configured to guide the fluid flow through the heater in a radially uniform manner.

8. 8. The hair care device of claim 7, wherein the first flow diverter is configured to distribute the fluid flow evenly between an upper portion and a lower portion through the heater and the outlet.

9. 10. The hair care device of claim 1, wherein the first flow diverter includes rounded edges to reduce turbulence in the fluid flow over the flow diverter.

10. The hair care device of claim 1 , wherein the fluid passageway is sealed within the handle and the body.

Images