Attachment for hair care device

Abstract

To provide an attachment for a hair care device.SOLUTION: An attachment includes an inlet that receives an air flow, and a plurality of outlets (113a, 113b) from which an air flow is discharged. The attachment further includes one or more members (140) movable between a first position and a second position. When the member is located at the first position, the air flow is discharged from the outlet in the clockwise direction, and when the member is located at the second position, the air flow is discharged from the outlet in the counterclockwise direction.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7(a)

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an attachment for a hair care device and a hair care device including the attachment.

Background Art

[0002] A hair care device may include an attachment for wrapping hair to create curls. Air may be discharged from the attachment to encourage the hair to wrap around the attachment.

Summary of the Invention

[0003] The present invention provides an attachment for a hair care device. The attachment includes an inlet for receiving an air flow, a plurality of outlets from which the air flow is discharged, and one or more members movable between a first position and a second position. When the member is in the first position, the air flow is discharged from the outlet in a clockwise direction, and when the member is in the second position, the air flow is discharged from the outlet in a counterclockwise direction.

[0004] The outlets may include a first outlet from which the air flow is discharged in a clockwise direction and a second outlet from which the air flow is discharged in a counterclockwise direction. The member may block the air flow to the second outlet when in the first position and block the air flow to the first outlet when in the second position.

[0005] Each of the members may rotate between the first position and the second position.

[0006] Each of the members may rotate about different respective axes.

[0007] Each outlet may include a slot extending substantially along the length of the attachment.​​​​​​​​​

[0008] The air flow is discharged from each outlet substantially tangentially to the outer surface of the attachment and may be.

[0009] The air flow discharged from each outlet may be drawn to the outer surface of the attachment.

[0010] The attachment may be of a substantially cylindrical shape.

[0011] The attachment may have a longitudinal axis, and each outlet may include a slot extending parallel to the longitudinal axis. and extend.

[0012] The attachment may include an inner sleeve and an outer sleeve, the inner sleeve may include a plurality of openings, and the outer sleeve may include a plurality of first openings and a plurality of second openings. Then, the member is one of the inner sleeve and the outer sleeve and rotates relative to the other of the inner sleeve and the outer sleeve. When the member is in the first position, the openings of the inner sleeve are aligned with the first openings of the outer sleeve, and the air flow is discharged in the clockwise direction. When the member is in the second position, the openings of the inner sleeve are aligned with the second openings of the outer sleeve, and the air flow is discharged in the counterclockwise direction. and may include. and may include portions. Next, the member is one of the inner sleeve and the outer sleeve and rotates relative to the other of the inner sleeve and the outer sleeve. When the member is in the first position, the openings of the inner sleeve are aligned with the first openings of the outer sleeve, and the air flow is discharged in the clockwise direction. When the member is in the second position, the openings of the inner sleeve are aligned with the second openings of the outer sleeve, and the air flow is discharged in the counterclockwise direction. and the other of the inner sleeve and the outer sleeve. When the member is in the first position, the openings of the inner sleeve are aligned with the first openings of the outer sleeve, and the air flow is discharged in the clockwise direction. and the openings of the inner sleeve are aligned with the first openings of the outer sleeve, and the air flow is discharged in the clockwise direction. When the member is in the second position, the openings of the inner sleeve are aligned with the second openings of the outer sleeve, and the air flow is discharged in the counterclockwise direction. and the air flow is discharged in the counterclockwise direction.

[0013] Each movable member may include a louver, and the attachment may include a plurality of columns. Then each louver contacts a first column when in the first position and contacts a different second column when in the second position. and contacts a different second column when in the second position.

[0014] Each louver, when in the first position, contacts the first column along a first edge of the louver Alternatively, a first outlet may be created along the second edge of the louver. Each louver may additionally contact a second column along the second edge when in the second position, and a second outlet may be created along the first edge. The airflow is then discharged clockwise from the first outlet, and the airflow is discharged counterclockwise from the second outlet.

[0015] The attachment may include a user-actuated selector that moves the member between a first position and a second position.

[0016] The selector may include a dial that rotates to move the member between a first position and a second position.

[0017] The selector may be latched and may have two stable positions corresponding to the first and second positions of the member.

[0018] The present invention further provides a hair care device. The hair care device includes a blower that generates an airflow, a plurality of outlets from which the airflow is discharged, and one or more members movable between a first position and a second position. When the member is in the first position, the airflow is discharged clockwise from the outlet, and when the member is in the second position, the airflow is discharged counterclockwise from the outlet.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0019]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

Figure 13

Figure 14

Figure 15

Figure 16

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0020] Here, with reference to the accompanying drawings, an embodiment will be described as an example.

[0021] The hair care devices 10 in FIGS. 1 to 3 include a handle unit 20 and an attachment 100 that can be detachably attached to the handle unit 20.

[0022] The handle unit 20 includes a housing 30, a blower 40, a heater 50, and a control unit 60.

[0023] The housing 30 has a tubular shape and includes an inlet 31 through which an air flow is drawn into the housing 30 by the blower 40 and an outlet 32 through which the air flow is discharged from the housing 30. The blower 40 is housed within the housing 30 and includes a fan 41 driven by an electric motor 42. The heater 50 is also housed within the housing 30 and includes a heating element 51 that arbitrarily heats the air flow.

[0024] The control unit 60 includes a user control unit 61 and a control module 62.

[0025] The user control unit 61 is provided on the surface of the housing 30 and is used for turning on / off the power of the hair care device 10, selecting the flow rate (e.g., high, medium, low), and selecting the air temperature (e.g., hot, warm, cold). In this example, each of the user control units 61 includes a slide switch. However, other forms of user control units such as buttons, dials, or touchscreens may also be used.

[0026] The control module 62 serves to control the blower 40 and the heater 50 in response to an input from the user control unit 61. For example, in response to an input from the user control unit, the control module 62 controls the power or speed of the blower 40 to adjust the flow rate of the air flow and the air flow ​​​​​​​​​​​​The power of the heater 50 may be controlled to adjust the temperature.

[0027] Referring now to FIGS. 4-8, the attachment 100 includes a barrel 110 and a dial 1 20.

[0028] The barrel 110 is cylindrical in shape, with one end open and the other end closed. The open end serves as an inlet 111 to the interior 112 of the barrel 110. A plurality of outlets 113 are formed around the side of the barrel . Each outlet 113 includes a slot extending along the length of the barrel 110, and the outlets 113 are evenly spaced around the longitudinal axis 114 of the barrel 110.

[0029] The barrel 110 includes an inner sleeve 140, an outer sleeve 150, and a plurality of slats 16 0. The inner sleeve 140 and the outer sleeve 150 are each cylindrical in shape . The inner sleeve 140 is received within the outer sleeve 150 and includes a plurality of slots 141 extending along the length of the inner sleeve 140. In the specific example shown, the inner sleeve 1 40 includes five slots 141.

[0030] The outer sleeve 150 includes a plurality of openings 151 disposed in columns extending along the length of the outer sleeve 150. More specifically, the openings 151 are disposed in pairs of columns 152, 153 that are evenly spaced around the outer sleeve 150. Again, in the specific example shown, the outer sleeve 150 includes five pairs of columns 152, 153. Each pair of columns 1 52, 153 is separated by a spine 154.

[0031] Each of the slats 160 is attached to one of the spines 154 of the outer sleeve 150, for example by snap fitting. Each slat 160 extends on both sides of the spine 154 and overlaps each of the columns 152, 153 of the opening. The edges of the slats 160 are radially spaced from the outer sleeve 150, creating two slots 113a, 113b that extend along the length of the barrel 110 between the slats 160 and the outer sleeve 150. Each of the slots 113a, 113b defines an outlet 113 of the barrel 110. The inner sleeve 140 is movable relative to the outer sleeve 150. More specifically, the inner sleeve 140 rotates relative to the outer sleeve 150 about the longitudinal axis 114 of the barrel 110. The inner sleeve 140 is movable between a first position and a second position. In the first position shown in FIG. 7(a), each of the slots 141 of the inner sleeve 140 is aligned with the column 152 of the first opening of the outer sleeve 140. In the second position of FIG. 7(b), each of the slots 141 of the inner sleeve 140 is aligned with the column 153 of the second opening of the outer sleeve 140. During use, when the attachment 100 is attached to the handle unit 20, the air flow generated by the handle unit 20 enters the interior 112 of the barrel 110 through the inlet 111. From there, the air flow moves radially outward through the slots 141 of the inner sleeve 140. The air flow then passes through the opening 151 of the outer sleeve 150. More specifically, the air flow passes through the opening 151 of the outer sleeve 150 depending on the position of the inner sleeve 140. The edges of the slats 160 are radially spaced from the outer sleeve 150, creating two slots 113a, 113b that extend along the length of the barrel 110 between the slats 160 and the outer sleeve 150. Each of the slots 113a, 113b defines an outlet 113 of the barrel 110. The inner sleeve 140 is movable relative to the outer sleeve 150. More specifically, the inner sleeve 140 rotates relative to the outer sleeve 150 about the longitudinal axis 114 of the barrel 110. The inner sleeve 140 is movable between a first position and a second position. In the first position shown in FIG. 7(a), each of the slots 141 of the inner sleeve 140 is aligned with the column 152 of the first opening of the outer sleeve 140. In the second position of FIG. 7(b), each of the slots 141 of the inner sleeve 140 is aligned with the column 153 of the second opening of the outer sleeve 140. During use, when the attachment 100 is attached to the handle unit 20, the air flow generated by the handle unit 20 enters the interior 112 of the barrel 110 through the inlet 111. From there, the air flow moves radially outward through the slots 141 of the inner sleeve 140. The air flow then passes through the opening 151 of the outer sleeve 150. More specifically, the air flow passes through the opening 151 of the outer sleeve 150 depending on the position of the inner sleeve 140. The edges of the slats 160 are radially spaced from the outer sleeve 150, creating two slots 113a, 113b that extend along the length of the barrel 110 between the slats 160 and the outer sleeve 150. Each of the slots 113a, 113b defines an outlet 113 of the barrel 110.

[0032] The inner sleeve 140 is movable relative to the outer sleeve 150. More specifically, the inner sleeve 140 rotates relative to the outer sleeve 150 about the longitudinal axis 114 of the barrel 110. The inner sleeve 140 is movable between a first position and a second position. In the first position shown in FIG. 7(a), each of the slots 141 of the inner sleeve 140 is aligned with the column 152 of the first opening of the outer sleeve 140. In the second position of FIG. 7(b), each of the slots 141 of the inner sleeve 140 is aligned with the column 153 of the second opening of the outer sleeve 140. During use, when the attachment 100 is attached to the handle unit 20, the air flow generated by the handle unit 20 enters the interior 112 of the barrel 110 through the inlet 111. From there, the air flow moves radially outward through the slots 141 of the inner sleeve 140. The air flow then passes through the opening 151 of the outer sleeve 150. More specifically, the air flow passes through the opening 151 of the outer sleeve 150 depending on the position of the inner sleeve 140. The inner sleeve 140 is movable relative to the outer sleeve 150. More specifically, the inner sleeve 140 rotates relative to the outer sleeve 150 about the longitudinal axis 114 of the barrel 110. The inner sleeve 140 is movable between a first position and a second position. In the first position shown in FIG. 7(a), each of the slots 141 of the inner sleeve 140 is aligned with the column 152 of the first opening of the outer sleeve 140. In the second position of FIG. 7(b), each of the slots 141 of the inner sleeve 140 is aligned with the column 153 of the second opening of the outer sleeve 140. During use, when the attachment 100 is attached to the handle unit 20, the air flow generated by the handle unit 20 enters the interior 112 of the barrel 110 through the inlet 111. From there, the air flow moves radially outward through the slots 141 of the inner sleeve 140. The air flow then passes through the opening 151 of the outer sleeve 150. More specifically, the air flow passes through the opening 151 of the outer sleeve 150 depending on the position of the inner sleeve 140. The inner sleeve 140 is movable relative to the outer sleeve 150. More specifically, the inner sleeve 140 rotates relative to the outer sleeve 150 about the longitudinal axis 114 of the barrel 110. The inner sleeve 140 is movable between a first position and a second position. In the first position shown in FIG. 7(a), each of the slots 141 of the inner sleeve 140 is aligned with the column 152 of the first opening of the outer sleeve 140. In the second position of FIG. 7(b), each of the slots 141 of the inner sleeve 140 is aligned with the column 153 of the second opening of the outer sleeve 140. During use, when the attachment 100 is attached to the handle unit 20, the air flow generated by the handle unit 20 enters the interior 112 of the barrel 110 through the inlet 111. From there, the air flow moves radially outward through the slots 141 of the inner sleeve 140. The air flow then passes through the opening 151 of the outer sleeve 150. More specifically, the air flow passes through the opening 151 of the outer sleeve 150 depending on the position of the inner sleeve 140. The inner sleeve 140 is movable relative to the outer sleeve 150. More specifically, the inner sleeve 140 rotates relative to the outer sleeve 150 about the longitudinal axis 114 of the barrel 110. The inner sleeve 140 is movable between a first position and a second position. In the first position shown in FIG. 7(a), each of the slots 141 of the inner sleeve 140 is aligned with the column 152 of the first opening of the outer sleeve 140. In the second position of FIG. 7(b), each of the slots 141 of the inner sleeve 140 is aligned with the column 153 of the second opening of the outer sleeve 140.

[0033] During use, when the attachment 100 is attached to the handle unit 20, the air flow generated by the handle unit 20 enters the interior 112 of the barrel 110 through the inlet 111. From there, the air flow moves radially outward through the slots 141 of the inner sleeve 140. The air flow then passes through the opening 151 of the outer sleeve 150. More specifically, the air flow passes through the opening 151 of the outer sleeve 150 depending on the position of the inner sleeve 140. During use, when the attachment 100 is attached to the handle unit 20, the air flow generated by the handle unit 20 enters the interior 112 of the barrel 110 through the inlet 111. From there, the air flow moves radially outward through the slots 141 of the inner sleeve 140. The air flow then passes through the opening 151 of the outer sleeve 150. More specifically, the air flow passes through the opening 151 of the outer sleeve 150 depending on the position of the inner sleeve 140. During use, when the attachment 100 is attached to the handle unit 20, the air flow generated by the handle unit 20 enters the interior 112 of the barrel 110 through the inlet 111. From there, the air flow moves radially outward through the slots 141 of the inner sleeve 140. The air flow then passes through the opening 151 of the outer sleeve 150. More specifically, the air flow passes through the opening 151 of the outer sleeve 150 depending on the position of the inner sleeve 140. During use, when the attachment 100 is attached to the handle unit 20, the air flow generated by the handle unit 20 enters the interior 112 of the barrel 110 through the inlet 111. From there, the air flow moves radially outward through the slots 141 of the inner sleeve 140. The air flow then passes through the opening 151 of the outer sleeve 150. More specifically, the air flow passes through the opening 151 of the outer sleeve 150 depending on the position of the inner sleeve 140. During use, when the attachment 100 is attached to the handle unit 20, the air flow generated by the handle unit 20 enters the interior 112 of the barrel 110 through the inlet 111. From there, the air flow moves radially outward through the slots 141 of the inner sleeve 140. The air flow then passes through the opening 151 of the outer sleeve 150. More specifically, the air flow passes through the opening 151 of the outer sleeve 150 depending on the position of the inner sleeve 140. It passes through either column 152 of the first opening or column 153 of the second opening. Inside When the inner sleeve 140 is in the first position (Fig. 7(a)), the air flow passes through the column 152 of each first opening. Then, the air flow is directed clockwise by the slats 160. As a result, the air flow is discharged from the barrel 110 in the clockwise direction. When the inner sleeve 150 is in the second position (Fig. 7(b)), the air flow passes through the column 153 of each second opening. Then, the air flow is directed counterclockwise by the slats 160, and the air flow is discharged from the barrel 110 in the counterclockwise direction. Therefore, by changing the position of the inner sleeve 150, the direction of the air flow discharged from the barrel 110 can be changed from clockwise to counterclockwise.

[0034] A dial 120 is provided at the top of the barrel 110 and is attached to the inner sleeve 140 (by a screw 170 in this example). The dial 120 can be used to move the inner sleeve 140 between the first position and the second position. For example, as shown in Fig. 8, the user can grip and turn or rotate the dial 120 to move the inner sleeve between the two positions. As a result, the user can change the direction in which the air flow is discharged from the barrel 110. More specifically, the user can select whether the air flow is discharged in the clockwise direction or the counterclockwise direction.

[0035] According to the hair care device 10 described above, the user can change the direction of the air flow discharged from the attachment 100. In particular, the dial at the top of the attachment 100 By rotating the lever 120, the user can select a clockwise or counterclockwise air flow. Thus, the direction of the air flow can be changed without switching or modifying the attachment. The air flow discharged from the outlet 113 is drawn to the curved surface of the barrel 110 by the Coandă effect. As a result, the hair presented to the attachment 100 is drawn to the barrel 110 and wrapped around it. Thus, the hair can be curled using the hair care device 10, and the direction of the curl is determined by the direction of the air flow. By providing a single attachment 100 that can send both clockwise and counterclockwise air flows, the user can quickly and conveniently change the direction in which the curl is formed. The change in the direction of the air flow is brought about by the movement of the inner sleeve 140 relative to the outer sleeve 150. However, as will be described below, the change in the direction of the air flow may be brought about by other means.

[0036] Figures 9 to 11 show a further attachment 200 comprising a barrel 210 and a dial 220, similar to the attachments of Figures 4 to 7. The barrel 210 is again substantially cylindrical in shape, with one end open and the other end closed. The open end functions as an inlet 211 to the interior 212 of the barrel 210, and a plurality of outlets 213 are formed along the side of the barrel 210. Each outlet 213 includes a slot, and the outlets 213 are evenly spaced around the longitudinal axis of the barrel 210. The barrel 210 is again substantially cylindrical in shape, with one end open and the other end closed. The open end functions as an inlet 211 to the interior 212 of the barrel 210, and a plurality of outlets 213 are formed along the side of the barrel 210. Each outlet 213 includes a slot, and the outlets 213 are evenly spaced around the longitudinal axis of the barrel 210. The barrel 210 is again substantially cylindrical in shape, with one end open and the other end closed. The open end functions as an inlet 211 to the interior 212 of the barrel 210, and a plurality of outlets 213 are formed along the side of the barrel 210. Each outlet 213 includes a slot, and the outlets 213 are evenly spaced around the longitudinal axis of the barrel 210. The barrel 210 is again substantially cylindrical in shape, with one end open and the other end closed. The open end functions as an inlet 211 to the interior 212 of the barrel 210, and a plurality of outlets 213 are formed along the side of the barrel 210. Each outlet 213 includes a slot, and the outlets 213 are evenly spaced around the longitudinal axis of the barrel 210. The barrel 210 is again substantially cylindrical in shape, with one end open and the other end closed. The open end functions as an inlet 211 to the interior 212 of the barrel 210, and a plurality of outlets 213 are formed along the side of the barrel 210. Each outlet 213 includes a slot, and the outlets 213 are evenly spaced around the longitudinal axis of the barrel 210.

[0037] The barrel 210 is again substantially cylindrical in shape, with one end open and the other end closed. The open end functions as an inlet 211 to the interior 212 of the barrel 210, and a plurality of outlets 213 are formed along the side of the barrel 210. Each outlet 213 includes a slot, and the outlets 213 are evenly spaced around the longitudinal axis of the barrel 210. The barrel 210 is again substantially cylindrical in shape, with one end open and the other end closed. The open end functions as an inlet 211 to the interior 212 of the barrel 210, and a plurality of outlets 213 are formed along the side of the barrel 210. Each outlet 213 includes a slot, and the outlets 213 are evenly spaced around the longitudinal axis of the barrel 210. The barrel 210 is again substantially cylindrical in shape, with one end open and the other end closed. The open end functions as an inlet 211 to the interior 212 of the barrel 210, and a plurality of outlets 213 are formed along the side of the barrel 210. Each outlet 213 includes a slot, and the outlets 213 are evenly spaced around the longitudinal axis of the barrel 210.

[0038] Figures 9 to 11 show a further attachment 200 comprising a barrel 210 and a dial 220, similar to the attachments of Figures 4 to 7. The barrel 210 is again substantially cylindrical in shape, with one end open and the other end closed. The open end functions as an inlet 211 to the interior 212 of the barrel 210, and a plurality of outlets 213 are formed along the side of the barrel 210. Each outlet 213 includes a slot, and the outlets 213 are evenly spaced around the longitudinal axis of the barrel 210.

[0039] The barrel 210 is again substantially cylindrical in shape, with one end open and the other end closed. The open end functions as an inlet 211 to the interior 212 of the barrel 210, and a plurality of outlets 213 are formed along the side of the barrel 210. Each outlet 213 includes a slot, and the outlets 213 are evenly spaced around the longitudinal axis of the barrel 210. The open end functions as an inlet 211 to the interior 212 of the barrel 210, and a plurality of outlets 213 are formed along the side of the barrel 210. Each outlet 213 includes a slot, and the outlets 213 are evenly spaced around the longitudinal axis of the barrel 210. The open end functions as an inlet 211 to the interior 212 of the barrel 210, and a plurality of outlets 213 are formed along the side of the barrel 210. Each outlet 213 includes a slot, and the outlets 213 are evenly spaced around the longitudinal axis of the barrel 210. The open end functions as an inlet 211 to the interior 212 of the barrel 210, and a plurality of outlets 213 are formed along the side of the barrel 210. Each outlet 213 includes a slot, and the outlets 213 are evenly spaced around the longitudinal axis of the barrel 210.

[0040] The barrel 210 includes an inner sleeve 240, a plurality of louvers 250, and a knob 260. It has.

[0041] The inner sleeve 240 is generally cylindrical in shape, with an open lower end and a closed upper end. A plurality of slots 241 extend along the length of the sleeve 240. The slots 241 are relatively wide, and thus the inner sleeve 240 may be considered to have columns 242 extending upward from the bottom to the top of the sleeve 240. In the specific example shown, the inner sleeve has five slots 241 and five columns 242. Each of the louvers 250 covers a respective slot 241 of the inner sleeve 240. The upper end of each louver 250 is pivotally attached to the top of the inner sleeve 240.

[0042] The lower end of each louver has a pin or leg 251 that is received within a slot 221 of the dial 220. Each of the louvers 250 pivots between a first position and a second position. The pivot point of each louver 250 is offset from the longitudinal axis 214 of the barrel 210. This is perhaps best understood in FIG. 10, where it can be seen that each louver 250 is pivotally connected to the inner sleeve 240 at an offset position 243 from the center. As a result, when in the first position, as shown in FIG. 11(a), each louver 25 0 contacts the first column 242a of the sleeve 240 along the first edge 250a of the louver 250. Then, a gap or slot 213a is created between the louver 250 and the inner sleeve 240 along the second edge 250b of the louver 250. As shown in FIG. 11(b), when in the second position, each louver 250 is along the second edge 250b of the louver 250. As shown in FIG. 11(b), when in the second position, each louver 250 is along the second edge 250b of the louver 250. 0 contacts the second column 242b of the sleeve 240 along the second edge 250b of the louver 250, and a gap or slot 213b is created between the louver 250 and the inner sleeve 240 along the first edge 250a of the louver 250. 0 contacts the second column 242b of the sleeve 240 along the second edge 250b of the louver 250, and a gap or slot 213b is created between the louver 250 and the inner sleeve 240 along the first edge 250a of the louver 250. 2 of the louver 250 and the inner sleeve 240, a gap or slot 213b is created along the first edge 250a of the louver 250. As shown in FIG. 11(b), when in the second position, each louver 250 is along the second edge 250b of the louver 250. contacts the second column 242b of the sleeve 240 along, and a gap or slot 213b is created along the first edge 250a between the louver 250 and the inner sleeve 2 40. Each of the slots 213a, 213b defines the outlet 213 of the barrel 210. As can be seen from FIG. 11, when the louver 250 is in the first position (FIG. 11(a)), the air flow is discharged from the barrel 2 10 in the clockwise direction, and when the louver 250 is in the second position (FIG. 11(b)), the air flow is discharged in the counterclockwise direction. 10 in the clockwise direction, and when the louver 250 is in the second position (FIG. 11(b)), the air flow is discharged in the counterclockwise direction. 10 in the clockwise direction, and when the louver 250 is in the second position (FIG. 11(b)), the air flow is discharged in the counterclockwise direction. 10 in the clockwise direction, and when the louver 250 is in the second position (FIG. 11(b)), the air flow is discharged in the counterclockwise direction.

[0043] Each column 242 may include a sealing element, which engages with the first edge 250a of the louver 250 when the louver 250 is in the first position and engages with the second edge 250b of the louver 250 when the louver 250 is in the second position. As a result, air flow leakage between the edges 250a, 250b of the louver 250 and the column 242 is suppressed. The sealing element may include a compressible material, whereby the sealing element can be deformed to provide an effective seal between the column 242 and the louver 250. and the louver 250. and the louver 250. and the louver 250. and the louver 250.

[0044] Each louver 250 includes vanes 252 extending circumferentially around the inner surface of the louver 250. As the air flow moves from the inlet 211 to the outlet 213 of the barrel 210, the vanes 252 change the direction of the air flow from a substantially vertical direction (i.e., parallel to the longitudinal axis of the barrel) to a substantially horizontal direction (i.e., perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the barrel). As a result, the air flow is discharged from the outlet 21 3 in a substantially circumferential direction. This encourages the air flow to wrap around the barrel 210 better. (i.e., perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the barrel). As a result, the air flow is discharged from the outlet 21 3 in a substantially circumferential direction. This encourages the air flow to wrap around the barrel 210 better. 3 in a substantially circumferential direction. This encourages the air flow to wrap around the barrel 210 better.

[0045] Dial 220 resembles a star wheel that surrounds the bottom of the inner sleeve 240. The di al 220 includes slots 221 into which the legs 251 of the louvers 250 are received. The di al 220 is rotatable relative to the inner sleeve 250. More specifically, the di al 220 is rotatable about the longitudinal axis of the barrel 210. When the dial 220 is rotated clockwise and counterclockwise, each of the louvers 250 pivots between a first position and a second position. As a result, the dial 220 can be used to change the direction in which the air flow is released from the barrel 210.

[0046] The knob 260 is attached to the top of the inner sleeve 240 and is isolated from the air flow moving within the barrel 210. Thus, the knob 260 provides a relatively cool area of the barrel 210 that can be gripped by a user when operating the hair care device 10.

[0047] The attachments 100, 200 described above change the direction of the air flow in different ways. However, what is common to each is the presence of a member (e.g., the inner sleeve 140 in FIGS. 4 - 7 or the louver 250 in FIGS. 9 - 11) that moves between a first position and a second position. Then, when the member is in the first position, the air flow is discharged from the attachment in a clockwise direction, and when the member is in the second position, the air flow is discharged in a counterclockwise direction. Also, each of the attachments 100, 200 has a first outlet 113a, 213a from which the air flow is discharged in a clockwise direction and a second outlet 113b, 213b from which the air flow is discharged in a when in the second position, it blocks air flow to the second outlet 113b, 213b and when in the second position, it blocks air flow to the first outlet The airflow to the outlets 113a and 213a is blocked. For example, the attachment 1 in FIG. In the 00, the barrel 110 has a first groove formed between the slat 160 and the outer sleeve 150. The airflow passes through the first outlet 113a and the second outlet 113b. 7(a)) and is discharged in a clockwise direction through a second outlet 113b. The inner sleeve 150 (i.e., the member) is ejected in a clockwise direction (FIG. 7(b)). In a first position (FIG. 7(a)), the rib 150 blocks the airflow path to the second outlet 113b. ) to a second position ( It is possible to move to the position shown in Figure 7(b).

[0048] 12 to 15 show further configurations for redirecting the air flow. FIG. 3 shows a third configuration of the attachment 300 with four segments 320. The member 320 is centered on an axis 325 that is offset from the longitudinal axis of the barrel 310. Each segment 320 has a first position (FIG. 12(a)) and a second position (FIG. 12(b)). 2(b)). In the first position, the first edge of the outer wall 321 of the segment The second edge of the outer wall 321 abuts against the inner wall 322 of an adjacent segment, and the second edge of the outer wall 321 abuts against the inner wall 322 of another adjacent segment. Thus, one side of each segment 320 is radially spaced beyond the outer wall of the segment. The four segments 320 are formed with a seal on one side and an outlet on the other side. The segments 320 pivot in unison to form an outlet on the same side of each segment 320 at the same time. When the nozzle 313 is in the first position (FIG. 12(a)), the air flows clockwise from the first outlet 313a. It is discharged in the り direction. And when the segment is in the second position (Fig. 12(b)), the air flow is discharged counterclockwise from the second outlet 313b.

[0049] Fig. 13 shows a fourth configuration of the attachment 400 in which the barrel 410 includes four pairs of blades 421, 422. Each pair of blades 421, 422 pivots about an axis 423 located between the two blades. Each first blade 421 of the pair is connected along the edge to the edge of the second blade 422 of the adjacent pair by an elastic element 430. The four pairs of blades pivot together between a first position (Fig. 13(a)) and a second position (Fig. 1 3(b)). When in the first position, each first blade 4 21 of the pair is on the outside and each second blade 422 of the pair is on the inside. Conversely, when in the second position, the first blade 421 is on the inside and the second blade 422 is on the outside. As seen in Fig. 1 3, each pair of blades 421, 422 pivots counterclockwise when moving from the first position (Fig. 13(a)) to the second position (Fig. 13(b)). When in the first position, the elastic element 430 is stretched and pulled around the outside of the first blade 421 of each pair of blades. Then, the air flow is discharged clockwise from the first outlet 413a through the channel 424 between each pair of blades. When moved to the second position, the elastic member 430 is instead stretched around the outside of the second blade 422 of each pair of blades. Then, the air is discharged counterclockwise from the second outlet 413b through the channel 424. 21 is on the outside and each second blade 422 of the pair is on the inside. Conversely, when in the second position, the first blade 421 is on the inside and the second blade 422 is on the outside. As seen in Fig. 1 3, each pair of blades 421, 422 pivots counterclockwise when moving from the first position (Fig. 13(a)) to the second position (Fig. 13(b)). When in the first position, the elastic element 430 is stretched and pulled around the outside of the first blade 421 of each pair of blades. Then, the air flow is discharged clockwise from the first outlet 413a through the channel 424 between each pair of blades. When moved to the second position, the elastic member 430 is instead stretched around the outside of the second blade 422 of each pair of blades. Then, the air is discharged counterclockwise from the second outlet 413b through the channel 424. from the first position (Fig. 13(a)) to the second position (Fig. 13(b)). When in the first position, the elastic element 430 is stretched and pulled around the outside of the first blade 421 of each pair of blades. Then, the air flow is discharged clockwise from the first outlet 413a through the channel 424 between each pair of blades. When moved to the second position, the elastic member 430 is instead stretched around the outside of the second blade 422 of each pair of blades. Then, the air is discharged counterclockwise from the second outlet 413b through the channel 424. around. Then, the air flow is discharged clockwise from the first outlet 413a through the channel 424 between each pair of blades. When moved to the second position, the elastic member 430 is instead stretched around the outside of the second blade 422 of each pair of blades. Then, the air is discharged counterclockwise from the second outlet 413b through the channel 424. to the second position, the elastic member 430 is instead stretched around the outside of the second blade 422 of each pair of blades. Then, the air is discharged counterclockwise from the second outlet 413b through the channel 424. When moved to the second position, the elastic member 430 is instead stretched around the outside of the second blade 422 of each pair of blades. Then, the air is discharged counterclockwise from the second outlet 413b through the channel 424. When moved to the second position, the elastic member 430 is instead stretched around the outside of the second blade 422 of each pair of blades. Then, the air is discharged counterclockwise from the second outlet 413b through the channel 424. When moved to the second position, the elastic member 430 is instead stretched around the outside of the second blade 422 of each pair of blades. Then, the air is discharged counterclockwise from the second outlet 413b through the channel 424.

[0050] FIG. 14 shows a fifth configuration of the attachment 500 in which the barrel 510 includes an inner sleeve 520, an outer sleeve 530, and a plurality of columns 540. Each column 540 pivots or rotates about its respective center between a first position (FIG. 14(a)) and a second position (FIG. 14(b)). The inner sleeve 520 and the outer sleeve 530 define a pair of channels 551, 552. When in the first position, each column 540 opens the first channel 551 of the pair of channels and closes the second channel 552. Then, the air flow is discharged in a clockwise direction through the first outlet 513a (FIG. 14(a)). When in the second position, each column 540 closes the first channel 551 and opens the second channel 552 . Then, the air flow is discharged in a counterclockwise direction through the second outlet 513b ([FIG. 14(b)]). The five columns 540 are arranged to move all at once, and the air flow is discharged in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction on the outer surface of the barrel 510. By providing the inner sleeve 520, the air flow is urged to move circumferentially before being discharged from the outlet . This improves the attraction of the outflow air flow to the surface of the barrel 510, i.e., the Coandă effect . Nevertheless, it is also conceivable to omit the inner sleeve 520. [[FIG. 15]] shows a sixth configuration of the attachment 600 in which the barrel 610 includes a plurality of columns 620 and a plurality of moving elements 630. Each moving element 630 is positioned between a pair of columns 620. The moving elements 630 rotate collectively about the longitudinal axis of the barrel between a first position (FIG. 15(a)) and a second position (FIG. 15(b)). Each moving element 630... By providing the inner sleeve 520, the air flow is urged to move circumferentially before being discharged from the outlet, thereby improving the attraction of the outflow air flow to the surface of the barrel 510, i.e., the Coandă effect. However, it is also possible to omit the inner sleeve 520.

[0051] FIG. 15 shows a sixth configuration of an attachment 600 in which a barrel 610 includes a plurality of columns 620 and a plurality of moving elements 630. Each moving element 630 is positioned between a pair of the columns 620. The moving elements 630 rotate collectively about the longitudinal axis of the barrel between a first position (FIG. 15(a)) and a second position (FIG. 15(b)). Each moving element 630 is positioned between a pair of columns 620. The moving elements 630 rotate collectively about the longitudinal axis of the barrel between a first position (FIG. 15(a)) and a second position (FIG. 15(b)). The moving elements 630 rotate collectively about the longitudinal axis of the barrel between a first position (FIG. 15(a)) and a second position (FIG. 15(b)). The moving elements 630 rotate collectively about the longitudinal axis of the barrel between a first position (FIG. 15(a)) and a second position The moving element 630 is narrower than the circumferential gap between adjacent columns. As a result, an outlet is created between each moving element 630 and the column 620. More specifically, when the moving element 6 30 is in the first position (Fig. 15(a)), a first outlet 613a is created, and an air flow is discharged in the clockwise direction through the first outlet 613a. When the moving element 630 is in the second position (Fig. 15(b)), a second outlet 613b is created, and an air flow is discharged

[0052] in the counterclockwise direction through the second outlet 613b. In the example described above, each attachment has a first configuration in which the air flow is discharged in the clockwise direction and a second configuration in which the air flow is discharged in the counterclockwise direction. Within each configuration, the air flow is discharged substantially tangentially from the outlet to the outer surface of the barrel. As a result, the air flow discharged from the outlet is drawn to the outer surface by the Coandă effect. This has the advantage that the hair presented to the attachment is drawn to the barrel and wrapped around the barrel. In other examples, the attachment may have additional configurations in which the air flow is discharged in a direction other than the tangential direction from the outlet to the outer surface of the barrel. For example, the attachment may have a third configuration in which the air flow is discharged

[0053] substantially perpendicular to the outer surface of the barrel from the outlet. This provides the user with diffuser type options and may be useful, for example, if the hair has once been wrapped The user can change the direction of the air flow in a relatively intuitive way. In particular, the user can rotate the dial clockwise and counterclockwise to select clockwise and counterclockwise air flows respectively. Despite the above advantages, the hair care device may be provided with an alternative type of selector that the user can operate to select clockwise or counterclockwise air flow. The dial or other user-operated selector may be latched and may have two stable positions corresponding to a first position and a second position of the movable member. This has the advantage that during use of the hair care device, the dial, and thus the movable member, is less likely to be accidentally moved. In addition, since the dial is automatically latched in a predetermined position when rotated, the likelihood that the movable member is in the correct position is increased. Therefore, the user does not need to accurately position the dial during use.

[0054] For example, the dial 120 of the attachment 100 in FIGS. 4 to 7 may be locked when in the first position and when in the second position. To move the dial 120 between the first position and the second position, the dial 120 may be pushed down to release the dial 120 from the locked position. When the dial 120 is pushed down, the dial may rotate between the first position and the second position. When it reaches the predetermined position, the dial 120 may be released and the dial 120 may be automatically guided and returned to the locked position, for example, by a biasing spring and a guide configuration.

[0055]

[0056] FIG. 16 shows that the dial 220 of the attachment 200 in FIGS. 9 to 11 has a latching mechanism 100​​​​​​​​​​​​​ Another example with 0 is shown. The latch mechanism 1000 slides over the U-shaped clip 1002 and is provided with a spring 1004. On the dial 220, a first pin 1006a is located there. The first pin 1006a is sandwiched between the U-shaped end 1002a of the clip 1002 and one end of the spring 1004 . On the barrel 210, another pin 1006b is located . The two unconnected ends 1002b of the U-shaped clip 1002 slot around the pin 1006b and the other end of the spring are biased against the pin 1006b .

[0057] When the dial 220 rotates clockwise, the pins 1006a, 1006b approach each other . The spring is held between the two pins 1006a, 1006b by the clip 1002 . Therefore, the spring is forced to contract. When the spring is in a contracted state, the latch mechanism is in an unstable state because there is potential energy stored in the compression spring 1004 . The elastic potential energy stored in the compression spring 1004 applies a force to return the latch mechanism to one of its stable positions, i.e., the position where the spring is most relaxed . The first stable position of the latch mechanism 100 0 is on the right side of the line Y-Y. From right to up along the line Y-Y, the latch mechanism 1000 urges the louver 250 (i.e., the movable member) to return to the first stable position corresponding to the first position of the louver 250 . Moving left across the line Y-Y, the latch mechanism 1000 biases the louver 250 towards the second stable position. In this way, when the dial 220 rotates, the latch mechanism automatically snaps the louver 250 into place, so the attachment 200 is more likely to be in the correct position during use

[0058] Each attachment is removably attached to the handle unit. Accordingly, the handle unit has the advantage of being usable with other types of attachments such as a styling brush or a hair dryer nozzle. Nevertheless, the hair care device may also comprise an attachment that is permanently attached to the handle unit.

[0059] Each slat may be configured to engage a first edge of each blade when the blade is in a first configuration and a second edge of each blade when the blade is in a second configuration. Thereby, fluid leakage from the gap between the edge of the blade and the column is further suppressed. The sealing element may comprise a compressible material. Thereby, the sealing element can be deformed to receive the edge of the blade and improve the seal.

[0060]

[0061] The present invention is not limited to the above detailed description. Variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art.​​​​​

Claims

1. an inlet for receiving an air flow; a plurality of outlets through which the airflow is discharged; one or more members movable between a first position and a second position, When the member is in the first position, the airflow is emitted from the outlet in a clockwise direction; When the member is in the second position, the airflow is emitted from the outlet in a counterclockwise direction; the airflow is emitted from each outlet in a direction substantially tangential to an outer surface of the attachment; An attachment wherein the airflow emitted from each outlet is drawn to an outer surface of the attachment such that, during use, hair presented to the attachment is drawn to and wraps around the attachment.

2. the outlets comprising a first outlet through which the airflow is discharged in a clockwise direction and a second outlet through which the airflow is discharged in a counterclockwise direction; the member occludes the air flow to the second outlet when in the first position; The attachment of claim 1 , wherein the member blocks the air flow to the first outlet when in the second position.

3. The attachment of claim 1 , wherein each of said members rotates between said first position and said second position.

4. 4. The attachment of claim 3, wherein each of said members rotates about a different respective axis.

5. An attachment according to any preceding claim, wherein each outlet comprises a slot extending substantially along the length of the attachment.

6. The attachment according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the attachment is generally cylindrical in shape.

7. The attachment has a longitudinal axis; An attachment according to any preceding claim, wherein each outlet comprises a slot extending parallel to the longitudinal axis.

8. The attachment comprises an inner sleeve and an outer sleeve; the inner sleeve includes a plurality of openings; the outer sleeve includes a plurality of first openings and a plurality of second openings; the member being one of the inner sleeve and the outer sleeve and rotating relative to the other of the inner sleeve and the outer sleeve; when the member is in the first position, the opening in the inner sleeve is aligned with the first opening in the outer sleeve and the air flow is emitted in a clockwise direction; 8. An attachment according to any preceding claim, wherein when the member is in the second position, the opening in the inner sleeve is aligned with the second opening in the outer sleeve and the air flow is emitted in a counterclockwise direction.

9. Each movable member includes a louver; The attachment comprises a plurality of columns; An attachment as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein each louver contacts a first column when in the first position and contacts a different second column when in the second position.

10. When each louver is in the first position, the louver contacts the first column along a first edge of the louver and a first outlet is created along a second edge of the louver; When each louver is in the second position, it contacts the second column along the second edge to create a second outlet along the first edge; the airflow is emitted from the first outlet in a clockwise direction; 10. The attachment of claim 9, wherein the air flow is emitted from the second outlet in a counterclockwise direction.

11. An attachment according to any preceding claim, comprising a user-operated selector for moving the member between the first and second positions.

12. 12. The attachment of claim 11, wherein the selector comprises a dial that rotates to move the member between the first and second positions.

13. 13. An attachment as claimed in claim 11 or 12, wherein the selector is latched and has two stable positions corresponding to the first and second positions of the member.

14. A blower that generates an air flow; a plurality of outlets through which the airflow is discharged; one or more members movable between a first position and a second position, When the member is in the first position, the airflow is emitted from the outlet in a clockwise direction; When the member is in the second position, the airflow is emitted from the outlet in a counterclockwise direction; the airflow is emitted from each outlet in a direction substantially tangential to an outer surface of the attachment; The hair care device, wherein the airflow emitted from each outlet is attracted to an outer surface of the attachment, and during use, hair presented to the hair care device is attracted to the hair care device and wraps around the hair care device.

15. the outlets comprising a first outlet through which the airflow is discharged in a clockwise direction and a second outlet through which the airflow is discharged in a counterclockwise direction; the member occludes air flow to the second outlet when in the first position; 15. The hair care device of claim 14, wherein the member blocks air flow to the first outlet when in the second position.

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