Smart Hair Dryer Accessory Detection

Abstract

To provide an improved system for detecting a type of an accessor attached to a hair dryer and controlling an operating setting of the hair dryer on the basis of the detected type of the accessory.SOLUTION: A hair dryer system 100 is provided with a hair dryer 102 configured so as to be detachably engaged with a plurality of different types of respective accessories. The hair dryer 120 includes: a memory configured so as to store different prescribed operation settings which respectively correspond to the plurality of different types of accessories; and a processor. The processor is configured to: receive an electric signal when the hair dryer 120 is started and the hair dryer 120 is detachably engaged with one of the accessories; determine a type of an accessory on the basis of the received electric signal; and extract a prescribed operation setting corresponding to the determined type.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] An apparatus, system, and method are provided for detecting the type of an accessory attached to a hair dryer and operating the hair dryer based on the detected type of the accessory.

Background Art

[0002] A hair dryer provides an air flow that can be utilized by a user to dry wet hair. In many cases, the hair dryer also heats and / or ionizes the air before the air exits the hair dryer. A hair dryer generally includes an outlet having a fixed dimension opening through which the heated air is discharged from the device. The air flow velocity, direction, and type of the air flow exiting the outlet can be changed by attaching a removable accessory to the hair dryer. Since each attachment can potentially affect the air flow leaving the outlet based on its configuration, it can be difficult to maintain the desired operating parameters of the hair dryer when switching between different attachments.

[0003] Therefore, there is a need for improved apparatus, systems, and methods for detecting the type of an accessory attached to a hair dryer and controlling the operating settings of the hair dryer based on the detected type of the accessory.

Summary of the Invention

[0004] A hair dryer, hair dryer accessories, a hair drying kit, and a method for using them are provided. In one embodiment, a hair drying system is provided, comprising a hair dryer having several different types of accessories and an output end configured to supply air. The output end may include a mounting assembly having a retaining mechanism configured to selectively engage with each of the different types of accessories to hold a selected one of the different types of accessories on the hair dryer. The hair dryer may also include an alignment mechanism configured to align at least one of the different types of accessories to at least one predetermined rotational orientation with respect to the output end. The hair dryer may further include an accessory detection assembly configured to move into one of a plurality of predetermined structural configurations based on the type of accessory attached to the hair dryer. The hair dryer may further include a controller configured to control the supply of air through the output end, depending on a predetermined structural configuration of the accessory detection assembly.

[0005] In one embodiment, at least one of different types of accessories includes an alignment mechanism configured to interact with a rotational alignment mechanism on the hair dryer to align at least one accessory to a predetermined rotational orientation relative to the output end. The hair dryer alignment mechanism may take the form of at least one surface feature formed on the central hub of the hair dryer mounting assembly, and the accessory alignment mechanism may include at least one complementary surface feature formed on the inner collar of at least one of the different types of accessories. In exemplary embodiments, the at least one predetermined rotational orientation may be only one predetermined rotational orientation, only two predetermined rotational orientations, or a plurality of rotational orientations.

[0006] In another embodiment, each of the different types of accessories may include an actuation mechanism configured to activate an accessory detection assembly and position the accessory detection assembly in one of a predetermined structural configuration. The accessory detection assembly may include, for example, first and second push rods, each having a predetermined position relative to each of the predetermined structural configurations of the hair dryer mounting assembly. Each of the different types of accessories may include an actuation mechanism such as a planar outer collar that allows the first and second push rods to remain in their initial positions, a collar having a projection configured to actuate only the first push rod, a collar having a projection configured to actuate only the second push rod, and a collar having a projection configured to actuate each of the first and second push rods.

[0007] In another embodiment, each of the different types of accessories may include a mounting assembly having a retaining groove configured to engage with a retaining mechanism on the hair dryer. The retaining mechanism on the mounting assembly of the hair dryer may be in the form of at least one biased pin configured to engage with the retaining groove.

[0008] In other embodiments, the movement of a mounting assembly between predetermined structural configurations is configured to control the on / off position of a switch, and the switch has a unique combination of on / off positions corresponding to the type of accessory mounted on the mounting assembly.

[0009] The hair dryer may also include other features such as a memory in the housing that stores a number of predetermined saved settings corresponding to one of several different types of accessories, each setting including operating parameters for air supply. The hair dryer may also include a processor and memory in the housing that are communicatively coupled to the mounting assembly, the processor being configured to determine the type of accessory based on the structural configuration of the hair dryer mounting assembly, and to operate the air supply unit based on predetermined saved settings for the determined type of accessory.

[0010] In another embodiment, an accessory for use with a hair dryer is provided. The accessory may include a housing having a first end having an air inlet and a second end having an air outlet, and a collar assembly disposed at the first end and selectively matable with the hair dryer. The collar assembly may include an outer collar configured to move the mounting assembly on the hair dryer to a first specific structural configuration corresponding to a first operating setting of the hair dryer when the accessory is attached to the hair dryer, and an inner collar configured to align the accessory with respect to the hair dryer to at least one predetermined rotational orientation when the accessory is attached to the hair dryer.

[0011] In one embodiment, the outer collar may include a plurality of first extruded parts configured to interact with a plurality of switches within the hair dryer. The inner collar may include a plurality of tabs configured to align with complementary surface features on the hair dryer to control the rotational orientation of the accessory toward the hair dryer when the accessory is attached to the hair dryer.

[0012] In another embodiment, the accessory kit is provided for use with a hair dryer and includes a first accessory having a first end having an air inlet and a second end having an air outlet. The first end may include a first mounting assembly having a first retaining groove configured to engage with an engagement mechanism on the hair dryer for fitting the first accessory onto the hair dryer, a first outer collar having a plurality of first protrusions formed thereon and configured to actuate an accessory detection assembly on the hair dryer, and a first inner collar having a first alignment mechanism configured to align the first accessory to at least one predetermined rotational orientation relative to the hair dryer. The kit may also include a second accessory having a first end having an air inlet and a second end having an air outlet. The first end may include a second mounting assembly having a second retaining groove configured to engage with an engagement mechanism on the hair dryer for mating a second accessory to the hair dryer, a second outer collar having a plane configured to allow the accessory detection assembly on the hair dryer to maintain an initial position, and a second inner collar configured to engage with the hair dryer so that the second accessory can rotate freely relative to the hair dryer.

[0013] In another embodiment, the kit may include a third accessory having a first end having an air inlet and a second end having an air outlet. The first end may include a third mounting assembly having a third retaining groove configured to engage with an engagement mechanism on a hair dryer for fitting the third accessory to the hair dryer, a third outer collar having a plurality of third protrusions formed thereon and configured to actuate an accessory detection assembly on the hair dryer, wherein the plurality of third protrusions are different from the plurality of first protrusions, and a third inner collar having a third alignment mechanism configured to align the third accessory to at least one predetermined rotational orientation relative to the hair dryer.

[0014] In another embodiment, a hair dryer is provided having a handheld housing having an air inlet and an air outlet configured to supply heated air. A mounting assembly is located adjacent to the outlet end and is configured to mate with different types of accessories. The mounting assembly may be configured to align the accessories mounted thereto in a predetermined rotational orientation relative to the housing, and the mounting assembly is movable between a plurality of predetermined positions based on the type of accessory mounted thereto. The hair dryer may also include a motor located within the housing and configured to supply air through the air outlet based on a plurality of predetermined stored settings corresponding to the type of accessory mounted on the mounting assembly.

[0015] In one embodiment, the mounting assembly includes an air outlet having at least one surface feature, and an inner collar configured to interact with a corresponding surface feature on the accessory to align the accessory to a predetermined rotational orientation relative to the hair dryer. At least one surface feature on the inner collar may be configured to align a plurality of push rods and an actuation mechanism on the accessory. The mounting assembly may also include a plurality of push rods that are movable between a plurality of predetermined positions, depending on the type of accessory to which it is mounted.

[0016] The hair dryer may also include other features such as memory within the housing for storing multiple predetermined saved settings, and a processor configured to automatically operate in one of the multiple predetermined saved settings based on the predetermined position of the mounting assembly.

[0017] This disclosure will be better understood from the following detailed description in conjunction with the attached drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0018] [Figure 1]Figure 1 is a side perspective view of one exemplary embodiment of a hair dryer system having a hair dryer with a concentrator accessory attached. [Figure 2A] Figure 2A is a front perspective view of the hair dryer system from Figure 1 with the accessories removed. [Figure 2B] Figure 2B is a partially disassembled front perspective view of the hair dryer shown in Figure 2A. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a front view of the hair dryer shown in Figure 2A. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a side perspective view of the hair dryer in Figure 2A, with a portion of the outer housing removed to show the accessory detection assembly of the first structural configuration. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a side perspective view of the hair dryer from Figure 4, showing the accessory detection assembly moved to the second structural configuration. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a side perspective view of the hair dryer from Figure 4, showing the accessory detection assembly moved to the third structural configuration. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a side perspective view of the hair dryer from Figure 4, showing the accessory detection assembly moved to the fourth structural configuration. [Figure 8A] Figure 8A is a front perspective view of the concentrator accessory of the hair dryer system shown in Figure 1. [Figure 8B] Figure 8B is a partially disassembled front perspective view of the concentrator accessory shown in Figure 8A. [Figure 9A] Figure 9A is a rear perspective view of one embodiment of a diffuser accessory for use with the hair dryer shown in Figure 1. [Figure 9B] Figure 9B is a partially disassembled front perspective view of the diffuser accessory shown in Figure 9A. [Figure 10A] Figure 10A is a rear perspective view of one embodiment of a brush accessory for use with the hair dryer shown in Figure 1. [Figure 10B] Figure 10B is a partially disassembled front perspective view of the brush accessory shown in Figure 10A. [Figure 11A] FIG. 11A is a rear perspective view of a portion of one embodiment of an air curler accessory for use with the hair dryer of FIG. 1. [Figure 11B] FIG. 11B is a partially exploded front perspective view of the air curler accessory of FIG. 11A. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 shows a method of operating the hair dryer system of FIG. 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0019] Here, specific exemplary embodiments will be described to provide an overall understanding of the structure, function, manufacture, and use principles 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 understand that the devices and methods specifically described herein and illustrated in the accompanying drawings are non-limiting exemplary embodiments, and the scope of the present invention is defined only by the claims. Features illustrated or described in connection with one exemplary embodiment may be combined with features of other embodiments. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention.

[0020] Furthermore, in this disclosure, components of similar names in embodiments generally have similar characteristics, and therefore, in a particular embodiment, each characteristic of each similarly named component is not necessarily fully detailed. Furthermore, to the extent that linear or circular dimensions are used in the descriptions of systems, apparatus, and methods in this disclosure, such dimensions are not intended to limit the types of shapes that may be used with such systems, apparatus, and methods. Those skilled in the art will recognize that equivalents to such linear and circular dimensions can be readily determined for any geometric shape. The size and shape of systems and apparatus, and their components, may depend at least on the anatomical structure of the object in which the systems and apparatus are used, the size and shape of the component in which the systems and apparatus are used, and the methods and procedures in which the systems and apparatus are used. Furthermore, the terms “about” and “substantially” are defined as ranges based on manufacturing variations and variations with respect to temperature and other parameters.

[0021] Apparatus, systems, and methods are provided for detecting the type of accessory attached to a hair dryer and for automatically controlling the operating settings of the hair dryer based on the detected accessory type. Generally, a hair dryer is provided having a mounting assembly configured to mate with one of a plurality of accessories, and having an output end configured to supply air. Each accessory may have a mounting assembly configured to interact with a mounting assembly on the hair dryer so as to detect the type of accessory attached to the hair dryer. The hair dryer may include a controller configured to change the operating settings based on the detected accessory type. In exemplary embodiments, the mounting assembly on each accessory includes features that interact with an accessory detection assembly on the hair dryer to cause the accessory detection assembly to assume a predetermined structural configuration. The predetermined structural configuration allows the hair dryer to identify the type of accessory attached to it. In particular exemplary embodiments, the accessory detection assembly on the hair dryer includes a movable push rod that interacts with an outer collar on the mounting assembly of each accessory. Each accessory may be configured to interact with the accessory to position the movable push rod into one of several unique configurations. For example, if two push rods are provided, the accessory can offer four distinct structural configurations for the push rods by moving both push rods, moving only the first push rod, moving only the second push rod, or not moving either push rod. The push rods can be connected to a switch that moves between an on position and an off position. The type of accessory may be determined based on the position of each switch, thereby allowing for changes in the operating settings of the motor and / or heater for a particular type of accessory attached to the hair dryer.Furthermore, in order to allow rotation of at least a portion of the accessory, the mounting assembly on the hair dryer and / or accessory may include features that control the alignment of the accessory to at least one predetermined rotational orientation relative to the hair dryer, while allowing the accessory to interact with an accessory detection assembly to indicate the type of accessory.

[0022] Figure 1 shows one exemplary embodiment of a hair dryer system 100, including one embodiment of a hair dryer 102 and an accessory 200 in the form of a concentrator. As shown, the hair dryer 102 generally includes an elongated housing 104 having a handle 106 extending laterally from the housing 104 and generally downward therefrom. Those skilled in the art will understand that the hair dryer 102 may have various configurations and that the features disclosed herein for detecting the type of accessory fitted to the hair dryer may be used with any hair dryer known in the art.

[0023] In the illustrated embodiment, the housing 104 is generally hollow in shape and is configured to include several components for the operation of the hair dryer, such as a motor, heater, processor, and memory. The illustrated housing 104 has a circular cross-section, but other cross-sectional shapes can be utilized. To allow the motor and heater to supply air, the housing 104 includes an input end 104a and an output end 104b located on opposing ends of the housing 104. The input end 104a allows air to be taken into the housing 104, and the output end 104b can supply air after it has passed through the motor and / or heater. The accessory 200 can be detachably mated with the hair dryer 102 at the output end 104b, as will be described in detail below.

[0024] Because the hair drying process may require directional control of the hair dryer, a handle 106 is included to allow handheld use of the hair dryer system 100. The handle 106 may extend from the housing 104 in a fixed orientation or may be pivotably mounted to the housing 104. The handle 106 may include a power button 108 which can be configured to start the hair dryer 102. Although not shown, the handle 106 may include other control mechanisms for controlling the speed and / or heat settings on the hair dryer. Furthermore, a power cable 110 may extend from the handle 106 and may be electrically connected to electrical components within the hair dryer 102 such as the motor, heater, processor, and memory.

[0025] As described above, various accessories on a hair dryer can be used to influence the exhaust air from the hair dryer for specific purposes. The accessory 200 shown in Figure 1 is in the form of a concentrator that is removablely fitted to the output end 104b of the hair dryer 102 to concentrate the air flowing from the hair dryer 102. The illustrated accessory 200 includes a housing 202 having an air inlet 202a and an air outlet 202b positioned on opposing ends of the housing 202. Similar to the hair dryer housing 104, the accessory housing 202 is in the form of an elongated hollow body through which air can pass. The air inlet 202a may have a shape complementary to the output end 104b of the hair dryer housing 104 to achieve a tight seal between the accessory 200 and the hair dryer 102 when fitted. The air outlet 202b may have a reduced diameter with a generally elongated oval shape to concentrate the air. The accessory shown in Figure 1 is a concentrator-type accessory, but those skilled in the art will understand that various types of accessories can be detachably fitted to the hair dryer 102. Numerous additional accessory types are described below in detail.

[0026] To allow an accessory to be detachably attached to the hair dryer 102, the hair dryer 102 may include a mounting assembly 112. Figures 2A–3 show the hair dryer 102 with the accessory 200 removed. The illustrated mounting assembly 112 is located within the housing 104 at the output end 104b. The illustrated mounting assembly 112 generally includes a retaining mechanism for securely holding the accessory in mating engagement with the hair dryer, an accessory detection assembly for detecting the type of accessory attached to the hair dryer, and an alignment mechanism for aligning the accessory to at least one predetermined rotational orientation relative to the hair dryer.

[0027] Various techniques can be used to securely hold the accessory when mating and engaging with the hair dryer. In one exemplary embodiment, as shown, the retention mechanism includes a plurality of biased retention pins 124 that engage with the accessory. The retention pins 124 may be positioned in various locations, and any number of retention pins 124 may be utilized, but in the illustrated embodiment, the hair dryer 102 includes three retention pins 124 located in a channel 118 formed between a central post 120 and a ring 122 positioned circumferentially around the central post 120. The retention pins 124 are configured to removably secure the accessory to the hair dryer 102 by interacting with retention grooves formed on the inner collar of the accessory, which may extend into the channel 118, as will be described in detail below. To hold the inner collar, the retention pins 124 may extend radially inward through an opening in the ring 122. The pins 124 may be spring-loaded so that they are biased radially inward. The spring allows the pin to move radially outward when the inner collar on the accessory is inserted into the channel 118, and allows the pin 124 to return to its radially inward position and engage with the retaining groove on the inner collar. Furthermore, the pin 124 can be tapered, for example, "conical," to assist in both the insertion and removal of the accessory.

[0028] In addition to securing the accessory using a retaining mechanism, as described above, the mounting assembly 112 may also include an accessory detection assembly for detecting the type of accessory attached to the hair dryer 102. Various techniques can be used to detect the type of accessory attached to the hair dryer 102, but in the illustrated embodiment, the accessory detection assembly includes push rods 130, 132, which are each connected to a corresponding switch in the housing 104. The push rods 130, 132 may be configured to assume a predetermined configuration depending on the type of accessory attached to them, thereby controlling the switch to indicate the type of accessory. As shown in Figures 2A-7, the push rods 130, 132 are spaced apart by a circumferential distance and extend axially within a channel 128 formed between the fixing plate 117 and the inner surface 107 of the housing 104. Each push rod 130, 132 may be fixed in grooves 131, 133 formed within the internal cover 135, or, as discussed below, the rods 130, 132 may be configured to slide axially within the grooves 131, 133 between an initial extended position and a retracted position, moving toward the switch, thereby moving the switch between an on position and an off position. The switch may be coupled to a motor and heater controller so that different types of accessories interact with the push rods 130, 132 to control the switch, thereby controlling the operating parameters of the motor and heater based on the position of the switch. Also, as will be described in more detail below, when the accessory is fitted to the hair dryer 102, the outer collar of the accessory may extend into the channel 128. Depending on the configuration of the accessory, the accessory may axially displace one of the push rods 130, 132 while remaining separated from them, or it may axially displace both push rods 130, 132.

[0029] As described above, the mounting assembly may also include a mechanism for aligning the accessory with the hair dryer. Certain accessories may need to be rotatable between 360 degrees or a specific predetermined position relative to the hair dryer. Rotation control may be necessary based on the accessory's configuration and / or to control the alignment between the actuation mechanism on the accessory and the accessory sensing assembly on the hair dryer.

[0030] To enable the rotation of the accessory, an alignment mechanism can be provided to control the rotational orientation of the accessory relative to the accessory sensing assembly, while allowing the accessory to interact with the push rod, as indicated by the type of accessory. In the illustrated embodiment, the alignment mechanism is in the form of a surface feature formed on the central post 120. In particular, the central post 120 includes an alignment tab 126 that is radially spaced on its outer surface and extends axially along the central post 120. The alignment tab 126 can be integral with the central post 120. The alignment tab 126 is configured to project radially outward from the central post 120 into the channel 118, as will be described in detail below, and to interact with complementary surface features of the accessory's rotational alignment mechanism, such as a complementary alignment tab on the inner collar of the accessory. The alignment tabs 126 can be positioned such that, when the accessory is fitted to the hair dryer 102, the complementary tabs of the inner collar are forced to slide between each of the alignment tabs 126, maintaining the accessory in a predetermined rotational orientation relative to the hair dryer 102, thereby ensuring that the correct push rods 130, 132 of the accessory detection assembly are retracted.

[0031] As described above, in order to control the operating parameters of the motor and heater using push rods 130, 132, the push rods are positioned to interact with corresponding switches 134, 136. Figures 4-7 show the hair dryer 102 with a portion of the housing 104 removed, in particular to show different structural configurations of the push rods 130, 132 and switches 134, 136, in order to illustrate the internal mechanism of the hair dryer 102. As illustrated, each switch 134, 136 is positioned at the end of the push rod 130, 132 opposite the end that interacts with the outer collar of the accessory. In some embodiments, the switches 134, 136 are optical gate switches, and a beam of light can be blocked by a pushed-down or retracted push rod, thereby closing the circuit. While the switches 134, 136 may be optical gate switches, those skilled in the art will understand that any type of switch can be used to indicate whether the push rod is pressed or not. As will be described in detail below, switches 134 and 136 may be in either an on or off position depending on the interaction between the accessory's outer collar and the push rods 130 and 132. Switches 134 and 136 are communicably coupled to a controller which includes a memory for storing predetermined operating settings for the motor and heater, and a processor for executing those operating settings.

[0032] As shown in Figure 4, the accessory detection assembly is in a first structural configuration, with both push rods 130 and 132 extending axially toward the output end 104b. With both push rods 130 and 132 extended, both switches 134 and 136 are in the same position, either on or off. For example, if the push rods are extended, the corresponding switches will be in the off position. When both push rods 130 and 132 are extended, either the accessory is not attached to the mounting assembly 112, or the accessory has an outer collar that does not come into contact with the push rods 130 and 132, and is attached to the hair dryer 102. The processor can determine that neither switch is in the on position and can then refer to predetermined operating settings stored for the motor and heater. The processor can then execute these operating settings when the hair dryer 102 is started by the power button 108.

[0033] As shown in Figure 5, the accessory detection assembly is in a second structural configuration in which the push rod 130 is axially extended and the push rod 132 is axially retracted. When only the push rod 132 is retracted, the switch 134 is in the off position and the switch 136 is in the on position. When only the push rod 132 is retracted, the accessory attached to the hair dryer 102 includes an outer collar that interacts only with the push rod 132 and not with the push rod 130. The structure of the outer collar is described in detail below, and the rotational orientation of the accessory is controlled by the interaction between the alignment tab 126 of the alignment mechanism and a complementary alignment tab on the inner collar of the accessory. The processor can determine that only the switch 136 is in the on position and then refer to predetermined operating settings stored for the motor and heater. The processor can then execute these operating settings when the hair dryer 102 is started by the power button 108.

[0034] As shown in Figure 6, the accessory detection assembly has a third structural configuration in which the push rod 132 is axially extended and the push rod 130 is axially retracted. With only the push rod 130 retracted, switch 136 is in the off position, while switch 134 is in the on position. When only the push rod 130 is retracted, the accessory attached to the hair dryer 102 includes an outer collar that interacts only with the push rod 130 and not with the push rod 132. The structure of the outer collar is described in detail below, and the rotational orientation of the accessory is controlled by the interaction between the alignment tab 126 of the alignment mechanism and a complementary alignment tab on the inner collar of the accessory. The processor can determine that only switch 134 is in the on position and then refer to predetermined operating settings stored for the motor and heater. The processor can then execute these operating settings when the hair dryer 102 is started by the power button 108.

[0035] As shown in Figure 7, the accessory detection assembly is in a fourth structural configuration in which both push rods 130 and 132 are retracted axially. When both push rods 130 and 132 are retracted, both switches 134 and 136 are in the ON position. When both push rods 130 and 132 are retracted, the accessory attached to the hair dryer 102 makes contact with both push rods 130 and 132. The processor can determine that both switches are in the ON position and then refer to predetermined operating settings stored for the motor and heater. The processor can then execute these operating settings when the hair dryer 102 is started by the power button 108.

[0036] As described above, various accessories can be detachably attached to the hair dryer 102 to alter the airflow from the hair dryer 102. Figures 8A-8B show a concentrator-type accessory 200 in more detail. As shown, the accessory 200 includes a housing 202 having an air inlet 202a and an air outlet 202b. Similar to the hair dryer, the air inlet 202a includes a mounting assembly which may include a retaining mechanism to facilitate engagement with the hair dryer, an actuation mechanism to actuate the accessory detection assembly, and a rotational alignment mechanism to control the rotational orientation of the accessory relative to the hair dryer.

[0037] As shown in Figures 8A and 8B, the mounting assembly generally includes an outer collar 204 and an inner collar 206 for interacting with the mounting assembly on the hair dryer 102. The outer collar 204 is positioned radially outward of the inner collar 206, and both the outer collar 204 and the inner collar 206 protrude axially from the air inlet 202a. The shoulder portion 208 may be positioned on the outside of the housing 202 at the air inlet 202a so that the hair dryer 102 extends around the housing 202 and the accessory 200 can abut against the shoulder portion 208 when attached to the hair dryer 102.

[0038] When fitted to the hair dryer 102, the outer collar 204 may extend into a channel 128 formed between the housing 104 and the fixing plate 117, and the inner collar 206 may extend into a channel 118 formed between the central post 120 and the ring 122. To facilitate secure attachment of the accessory 200 to the hair dryer 102, the inner collar 206 may include a retaining groove 212 located on its outer surface and extending circumferentially around the inner collar 206. As previously stated, the retaining pin 124 on the hair dryer mounting mechanism can extend into and engage with the retaining groove 212 of the inner collar 206. When the inner collar 206 is inserted into the channel 118, the pin 124 is radially displaced by the inner collar 206. When the retaining groove 212 and pin 124 are axially aligned with the housing 104 that abuts against the shoulder portion 208, the pin 124 extends radially into the retaining groove 212, securing the accessory 200 to the hair dryer 102. In certain embodiments, the retaining groove 212 may be contoured to facilitate the attachment and removal of the accessory 200 from the hair dryer 102.

[0039] As described above, the accessory 200 may include an actuation mechanism configured to activate the accessory detection assembly on the hair dryer 102, positioning the accessory detection assembly in one of a plurality of predetermined structural configurations, thereby enabling detection of the type of accessory attached thereto. In this embodiment, the actuation mechanism is a plane 205 formed on the mounted side of the outer collar 204 such that the collar 204 is in the form of a solid ring without additional protrusions. This configuration allows both push rods 130, 132 to remain in their initial extended positions when the accessory 200 is connected to the hair dryer 102 with the outer collar 204 positioned within the channel 128 between the housing 104 and the fixing plate 114. Thus, the outer collar 204 does not interact with either of the push rods 130, 132.

[0040] Since the outer collar 204 does not interact with the push rods 130, 132, it is not necessary to rotate the accessory 200 with the accessory detection assembly on the hair dryer 102. Therefore, in this embodiment, the concentrator accessory 200 is freely rotatable. The inner collar 206 may have a smooth inner surface 210. The smooth inner surface 210 does not engage with the alignment tab 126 of the alignment mechanism, but instead rests on the alignment tab 126. This arrangement of the inner collar 206 allows the accessory 200 to rotate freely relative to the hair dryer 102 when the accessory 200 is attached to the hair dryer 102.

[0041] In addition to controlling the operating settings of the motor and heater, some accessories can also incorporate airflow control within the accessory itself. As shown in Figures 1, 8A, and 8B, the concentrator accessory 200 includes a lever 214 located in a slot 216 formed within the housing 202. The lever 214 can slide within the slot 216 and can be connected to an internal baffle system that can reduce the size of the air outlet 202b. Reducing the size of the air outlet 202b allows for further control of the airflow velocity from the accessory 200.

[0042] Another exemplary accessory is shown in Figures 9A–9B, which illustrates a diffuser-type accessory. Accessory 300 includes a housing 302 having an air inlet 302a and an air outlet 302b. The air inlet 302a includes a mounting assembly for interacting with a mounting assembly on a hair dryer. Similar to the hair dryer, the mounting assembly on accessory 300 may include a retaining mechanism to facilitate engagement with the hair dryer, an actuation mechanism to actuate an accessory detection assembly, and a rotational alignment mechanism to control the rotational orientation of the accessory relative to the hair dryer.

[0043] As shown in Figures 9A and 9B, the mounting assembly generally includes an outer collar 304 and an inner collar 306. The outer collar 304 is positioned radially outward of the inner collar 306, and both the outer collar 304 and the inner collar 306 protrude axially from the air inlet 302a. The shoulder portion 308 may be positioned on the housing 302 of the air inlet 302a so that the hair dryer 102 can contact the shoulder portion 308 when the accessory 300 is attached to the hair dryer 102.

[0044] Similar to the concentrator accessory 200, when the diffuser accessory 300 is mated with the hair dryer 102, the outer collar 304 may extend into a channel 128 formed between the housing 104 and the fixing plate 117, and the inner collar 306 may extend into a channel 118 formed between the central post 120 and the ring 122. To facilitate secure attachment of the accessory 200 to the hair dryer 102, the inner collar 306 may include a retaining groove 312 located on the outer surface of the inner collar 306, the retaining groove 312 extending circumferentially around the inner collar 306. As previously stated, the pin 124 of the retaining mechanism can engage with the retaining groove 312 of the inner collar 306 in the same way that the pin 124 interacts with the retaining groove 212 on the inner collar 206 of the concentrator accessory 200.

[0045] The diffuser accessory 300 may also include an actuation mechanism configured to actuate an accessory detection assembly on the hair dryer. In this embodiment, the outer collar 304 includes projections 305 formed on the end surface of the outer collar 304 and projecting axially therefrom. The projections 305 may be circumferentially arranged around the outer collar 304 and may be sized and positioned to actuate only one of the push rods 130, 132 when the accessory 300 is fitted with the hair dryer 102. In this embodiment, the projections 305 are in the form of curved peaks with curved valleys located between them. The peaks and valleys are spaced so that one projection aligns with one of the push rods and the valley aligns with the other push rod. As a result, one push rod aligned with the projection moves to the retracted position, thereby switching the corresponding switch from off to on. The other push rod remains in the extended position, and the corresponding switch remains off.

[0046] The inner collar 306 may include an alignment tab 311 positioned on its inner surface 310 to properly align the operating mechanism on the accessory 300 with the hair dryer and to actuate one of the push rods 130, 132. The alignment tab 311 may be in the form of a protruding surface feature having a shape complementary to the shape of the alignment tab 126 on the hair dryer 102. This arrangement of the inner collar 306 controls the rotational orientation of the accessory 300 relative to the hair dryer 102 when the accessory 300 is attached to the hair dryer 102. When the inner collar 306 is inserted into the channel 118 on the hair dryer 102, the alignment tabs 126 and 311 become mesh, and the projection 305 aligns with one of the push rods 130, 132. The accessory 300 is prevented from rotating on the hair dryer 102. However, the rotational alignment mechanism does not require the user to align the accessory 300 with the hair dryer in one specific orientation, and allows the accessory 300 to be attached to the hair dryer 102 in various rotational positions. In other words, the accessory 300 can be attached to the hair dryer in any rotational orientation, and the tabs 126, 311 interact to properly align the projection 305 with the rods 130, 132 of the accessory detection member. The rotational positions of both the outer collar 304 and the inner collar 306 can be fixed relative to each other so that the projection 305 of the outer collar contacts only the correct push rods 130, 132 when attaching the accessory 300 in any of the various available rotational positions.

[0047] In addition to controlling the operating settings of the motor and heater, accessory 300 may also include airflow control similar to accessory 200. Accessory 300 may include a lever 314 located in a slot 316 formed within the housing 302. The lever 314 can slide within the slot 316 and is connected to a projection on the end of the diffuser, which causes the projection to retract into the diffuser.

[0048] Figures 10A-10B show another embodiment of the accessory in the form of a brush-type accessory 400. The accessory 400 is substantially similar to the accessory 300 and includes a housing 402 having an air inlet 402a and an air outlet 402b. The air outlet 402b includes a mounting assembly for interacting with a mounting assembly on a hair dryer. Similar to the hair dryer, the mounting assembly on the brush accessory 400 may include a retaining mechanism to facilitate engagement with the hair dryer, an actuation mechanism to actuate the accessory detection assembly, and a rotational alignment mechanism to control the rotational orientation of the accessory relative to the hair dryer.

[0049] As shown in Figures 10A-10B, the mounting assembly generally includes an outer collar 404 positioned radially outward of the inner collar 406, with both the outer collar 404 and the inner collar 406 protruding axially from the air inlet 402a. The illustrated accessory 400 further includes a support collar 407 positioned radially outward of and around the outer collar 404. The support collar 407 is configured to extend around the hair dryer housing 104 to provide further support. Such collars can be used in conjunction with heavier accessories or accessories that are subjected to greater forces during use.

[0050] Similar to the diffuser accessory 300, the inner collar 406 of the brush accessory 400 may include a retaining groove 412 located on the outer surface of the inner collar 406. As previously stated, the pin 124 of the mounting assembly 112 may be configured to extend into and engage with the retaining groove 412 of the inner collar 406, which is identical to how the pin 124 interacts with the retaining groove 212 of the inner collar 206.

[0051] Furthermore, similar to accessory 300, the outer collar 404 may include projections 405 formed on its end surface and extending axially from the outer collar 404. The illustrated projections 405 have a configuration similar to projections 305 and are configured to contact only one of the push rods 130, 132 when accessory 400 is attached to the hair dryer 102. Thus, when accessory 400 is attached to the hair dryer 102, the outer collar 4304 extends into the channel 128 between the housing 104 and the fixing plate 114, with one of the projections 405 moving to the extended position in contact with one of the push rods, while the other projection extends into the valley between adjacent projections 405.

[0052] Similar to the diffuser accessory 300, the brush accessory 400 may also include an alignment tab 411 positioned on the inner surface 410 of the inner collar 406. The alignment tab 411 is complementary to and engages with the alignment tab 126 of the alignment mechanism when the inner collar 406 is inserted into the channel 118. This arrangement of the inner collar 406 controls the rotational orientation of the accessory 400 relative to the hair dryer 102 when the accessory 400 is attached to the hair dryer 102.

[0053] To enable the hair dryer 102 to distinguish between the diffuser accessory 300 and the brush accessory 400, the alignment tab 411 on the brush accessory 400 can be configured to align a projection 405, thereby moving one of the different push rods 130, 132 to a retracted position compared to the brush accessory 400. This can be achieved by forming the alignment tab 411 and the projection 405 in positions relative to each other that yield the desired alignment. Since the inner collar 406 and outer collar 404 are non-rotatably connected to the housing 402, the rotational positions of both the inner collar 406 and the outer collar 404 are fixed relative to each other, thus ensuring that the projection 405 on the outer collar 404 contacts only the correct push rods 130, 132 when the accessory 400 is mounted in any of the various available rotational positions. For example, when the diffuser accessory 300 is mounted on the hair dryer 102, the projection 305 can only contact the push rod 130. In comparison, when the brush accessory 400 is attached to the hair dryer 102, the projection 405 can only contact the push rod 132. Due to this arrangement, the hair dryer system 100 can detect and utilize the different operating parameters of the diffuser accessory 300 and the brush accessory 400 without requiring user input.

[0054] Another exemplary accessory is shown in Figures 11A-11B, which depict a curler-type accessory. Accessory 500 includes a housing 502 having an air inlet 502a and an air outlet 502b. The air outlet 502b includes a mounting assembly for interacting with a mounting assembly on a hair dryer. Similar to the hair dryer, the mounting assembly on the curler accessory 500 may include a retaining mechanism to facilitate engagement with the hair dryer, an actuation mechanism to actuate an accessory detection assembly, and a rotational alignment mechanism to control the rotational orientation of the accessory relative to the hair dryer.

[0055] As shown in Figures 11A-11B, the mounting assembly generally includes an outer collar 504 positioned radially outward of the inner collar 506. The illustrated accessory 500 further includes a support collar 507 positioned radially outward of and around the outer collar 504. The support collar 507 is configured to extend around the hair dryer housing 104 to provide additional support. Such collars can be used in conjunction with heavy accessories or accessories that are subjected to significant forces during use.

[0056] Like other accessories, the inner collar 506 of the curler accessory 500 may include a retaining groove 512 located on the outer surface of the inner collar 506. As previously mentioned, the pin 124 of the retaining mechanism may be configured to extend into and engage with the retaining groove 512 of the inner collar 506 in the same way that the pin 124 interacts with the retaining groove 212 of the inner collar 206.

[0057] Like other accessories, the mounting assembly on the curler accessory 500 may also include an actuation mechanism that activates an accessory detection assembly on the hair dryer, allowing the hair dryer to detect the type of accessory attached to it. In this embodiment, as with accessory 200, the outer collar 504 is a solid ring without additional protrusions. However, the outer collar 504 may be configured to interact with both push rods 130. In particular, when accessory 500 is attached to the hair dryer 102, the outer collar 504 may extend within the channel 128 between the housing 104 and the fixing plate 114 by the distance that the push rods 130, 132 move from the extended position to the retracted position.

[0058] The outer collar 504 has a planar configuration and can be fitted to the hair dryer 102 in any rotational orientation, while the inner collar 506 may include an alignment mechanism to align the accessory with respect to the hair dryer. The design of the accessory 500 may cause a lever moment due to the design and weight of the accessory 500. Therefore, the alignment tab 511 may prevent unintended rotation of the accessory 500 during use. Thus, the inner collar 506 may include a rotational alignment mechanism, such as an alignment tab 511 positioned on its inner surface 510. Similar to the alignment tab 311 of the inner collar 306 of the diffuser accessory 300, the alignment tab 511 is complementary to and engages with the alignment tab 126 of the alignment mechanism when the inner collar 506 is inserted into the channel 118 on the hair dryer 102. This arrangement of the inner collar 506 controls the rotational orientation of the accessory 500 relative to the hair dryer 102 when the accessory 500 is attached to the hair dryer 102.

[0059] In certain embodiments, the alignment tabs of any of the accessories disclosed herein may be configured to position the accessory in a predetermined number of fixed rotational orientations relative to the hair dryer. For example, a first accessory, such as the curler accessory 500, may include a single alignment tab that allows the accessory to be attached to the hair dryer 102 in only one orientation, while a second accessory, such as the brush accessory 400, may include two alignment tabs that allow the accessory 500 to be attached to the hair dryer 102 in two separate orientations. Other accessories may include three alignment tabs that allow the accessory to be attached to the hair dryer 102 in three separate orientations, four alignment tabs that allow the accessory to be attached to the hair dryer in four separate orientations, and so on. The specific number of alignment tabs may vary depending on a particular type of accessory and its desired rotational orientation. Furthermore, as previously stated with respect to the diffuser accessory 200, the accessory may lack any alignment tabs at all so that the accessory can rotate freely relative to the hair dryer.

[0060] The rotational alignment mechanism on each accessory may vary as desired depending on the type of accessory, but the actuation mechanism on each accessory and its interaction with the accessory detection assembly on the hair dryer may also vary. However, the rotational alignment mechanism may be limited by the actuation mechanism. For example, a rotational alignment mechanism that allows free rotation of an accessory can be used in combination with an actuation mechanism that allows the push rods 130, 132 to remain in the extended position or to move both push rods 130, 132 to the retracted position. Conversely, if a particular one of the push rods 130, 132 moves to the retracted position, the rotational alignment mechanism may need to have a configuration that aligns the actuation mechanism with the push rods 130, 132 so as to affect the operation of that particular one of the push rods 130, 132. Thus, those skilled in the art will recognize that each accessory has an actuation mechanism and a rotational alignment mechanism that work in coordination to provide the desired rotation, and that the hair dryer is able to detect the type of accessory.

[0061] As mentioned above, when any one of accessories 200, 300, 400, or 500 is attached to the hair dryer, the resulting structural configuration of the accessory detection mechanism allows the hair dryer 102 to detect the type of accessory attached. Therefore, the hair dryer 102 automatically controls the operating settings based on the detected accessory type. Generally, the operating settings for the motor and heater can have multiple levels, such as low, medium, and high. For example, the low speed setting for the motor can be in the range of 20 to 25 cubic feet / minute (CFM). The intermediate speed setting for the motor can be in the range of 25 to 30 CFM. The high speed setting for the motor can be in the range of 30 to 35 CFM. Furthermore, the low heat setting for the heater can be in the range of 55 to 70°C. The medium heat setting for the heater can be in the range of 70 to 85°C. The high heat setting for the heater can be in the range of 85 to 100°C.

[0062] Each accessory can have different operating settings. For example, the concentrator-type accessory 200 can be set to high motor speed and high heat. The diffuser-type accessory 300 can be set to medium motor speed and low heat. The brush-type accessory 400 can be set to low motor speed and medium heat. However, those skilled in the art will understand that the listed operating settings for each type of accessory can be changed according to the operating requirements of the hair dryer.

[0063] As previously mentioned, the hair dryer 102 includes a controller having a processor and memory for storing predetermined operating settings. Figure 12 illustrates how the controller operates the hair dryer 102. Switches 134 and 136 are connected to the controller to send electrical signals from the switches to the controller. In step 602, the hair dryer 102 is started by the user pressing the power button 108 on the hair dryer 102. Once started, the controller needs to determine what structural configuration the mounting assembly 112 is in by determining the positions of switches 134 and 136. In step 604, when the hair dryer 102 is operating, signals are sent from switches 134 and 136 to determine the operating settings that the hair dryer 102 will execute from memory. Since switches 134 and 136 are actuated by push rods 130 and 132 during the installation and removal of various accessories, the signals sent to the controller alternate and correspond to the new positions of switches 134 and 136. In the illustrated embodiment, since there are two switches, there are four predetermined operating settings: both switches off, both switches on, the first switch on, the second switch off, the first switch off, and the second switch on. In step 606, each operating setting may have its own motor and / or heating settings stored in memory, which can be retrieved from memory based on signals from switches 134, 136. In step 608, once the corresponding operating setting has been retrieved from memory, the processor can execute the heater and / or motor operating settings. For example, if switch 134 is simply activated, the predetermined operating settings for the heater and motor are executed by the processor from memory corresponding to the activation of only switch 134. If switch 134 is no longer activated, the processor can use the stored operating settings to change the motor and heater operating settings corresponding to the new structural configuration of switches 134, 136 by repeating steps 604-608.

[0064] In the illustrated embodiment, four accessories 200, 300, 400, and 500 are described, each accessory having a specific operating setting for the motor and heater. However, although four accessories are described, any number of accessories can be provided and used with the hair dryer 102. Multiple accessories capable of operating with the same operating setting as one of the accessories 200, 300, 400, and 500 may be provided, by moving the accessory detection assembly to the same structural configuration to operate with the same operating setting. Furthermore, although only two push rods and switches are disclosed in the illustrated embodiment, the hair dryer may include any number of push rods and switches that enable five or more combinations, and therefore five or more predetermined stored operating settings.

[0065] To provide a comprehensive understanding of the structure, function, manufacture, and use principles of the systems, apparatus, and methods disclosed herein, specific exemplary embodiments are described. One or more examples of these embodiments are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Those skilled in the art will understand that the systems, apparatus, and methods specifically described herein and illustrated in the accompanying drawings are non-limiting exemplary embodiments, and the scope of the invention is defined solely by the claims. Features illustrated or described in relation to one exemplary embodiment may be combined with features of other embodiments. Such modifications and variations are intended to fall within the scope of the invention. Furthermore, in this disclosure, components of similarly named embodiments generally have similar features, and therefore, in a particular embodiment, each feature of each similarly named component is not necessarily fully detailed.

[0066] Where used herein and throughout the claims, linguistic approximations can be applied to modify any quantitative expression that may change acceptablely without resulting in a change to the underlying function. Thus, values ​​modified by the terms, e.g., “about,” “approximately,” and “substantially,” are not limited to the specified exact value. In at least some examples, the approximating language may correspond to the precision of an instrument for measuring a value. Here, and throughout this specification and the claims, the limits of range may be combined and / or interchangeable, and such range is specified and includes all subranges contained therein unless the context or language suggests otherwise.

[0067] Those skilled in the art will understand further features and advantages of the present invention based on the above-described implementation. Therefore, this application should not be limited by what is specifically shown and described, except as indicated by the appended claims. All publications and references cited herein are expressly incorporated by reference in their entirety. [Note] [Note 1] Multiple different types of accessories, A hair dryer having an output end configured to supply air, The mounting assembly includes: a retaining mechanism configured to selectively engage with each of the plurality of different types of accessories to hold one of the selected accessories on the hair dryer; an alignment mechanism configured to align at least one of the plurality of different types of accessories with respect to the output end to at least one predetermined rotational orientation; and an accessory detection assembly configured to move to one of a plurality of predetermined structural configurations based on the type of accessory attached to the hair dryer. The hair dryer further includes a controller configured to control the supply of air through the output end, depending on the predetermined structural configuration of the accessory detection assembly, as a hair drying system. [Note 2] The system according to Appendix 1, wherein at least one of the plurality of different types of accessories is configured to interact with the rotational alignment mechanism on the hair dryer to align the at least one accessory to a predetermined rotational orientation relative to the output end. [Note 3] The system according to Appendix 2, wherein the alignment mechanism of the hair dryer comprises at least one surface feature formed on the central hub of the mounting assembly of the hair dryer, and the alignment mechanism of the accessory comprises at least one complementary surface feature formed on the inner collar of at least one of the plurality of different types of accessories. [Note 4] The system according to Appendix 1, wherein the at least one predetermined rotational orientation includes only one predetermined rotational orientation. [Note 5] The system according to Appendix 1, wherein the at least one predetermined rotational orientation includes only two predetermined rotational orientations. [Note 6] The system according to Appendix 1, wherein each of the plurality of different types of accessories includes an operating mechanism configured to activate the accessory detection assembly and position the accessory detection assembly in one of the plurality of predetermined structural configurations. [Note 7] The system according to Appendix 6, wherein the accessory detection assembly includes first and second push rods, each having a predetermined position relative to each of the predetermined structural configurations of the hair dryer mounting assembly. [Note 8] The system according to Appendix 7, wherein each of the plurality of different types of accessories includes an actuation mechanism selected from the group consisting of a planar outer collar that allows the first and second push rods to remain in their initial positions, a collar having a projection configured to actuate only the first push rod, a collar having a projection configured to actuate only the second push rod, and a collar having a projection configured to actuate each of the first and second push rods. [Note 9] The system according to Appendix 1, wherein each of the plurality of different types of accessories includes a mounting assembly having a retaining groove configured to engage with the retaining mechanism on the hair dryer. [Note 10] The system according to Appendix 9, wherein the retaining mechanism on the mounting assembly of the hair dryer includes at least one biased pin configured to engage with the retaining groove. [Note 11] The system according to Appendix 1, wherein the movement of the mounting assembly between the plurality of predetermined structural configurations is configured to control the on / off positions of a plurality of switches, and the plurality of switches have a unique combination of on / off positions corresponding to the type of accessory mounted on the mounting assembly. [Note 12] The system as described in Appendix 1, further comprising a memory within the housing that stores a plurality of predetermined saved settings, each corresponding to one of the plurality of different types of accessories, and each setting includes operating parameters for air supply. [Note 13] The system according to Appendix 12, further comprising a processor and memory in the housing, which are communicatively coupled to the mounting assembly, wherein the processor is configured to determine the type of accessory based on the structural configuration of the hair dryer mounting assembly, and to operate the air supply for the determined type of accessory based on predetermined saved settings. [Note 14] An accessory for use with a hair dryer, A housing having a first end with an air inlet and a second end with an air outlet, The first end is disposed of and is selectively fitted to a hair dryer, and the color assembly is When the accessory is attached to the hair dryer, an outer collar is configured to move the mounting assembly on the hair dryer to a first specific structural configuration corresponding to a first operating setting of the hair dryer, An accessory comprising an inner collar configured to align the accessory with respect to the hair dryer in at least one predetermined rotational orientation when the accessory is attached to the hair dryer. [Note 15] The accessory according to Appendix 14, comprising a first plurality of extruded products configured such that the outer collar interacts with a plurality of switches in the hair dryer. [Note 16] The accessory according to Appendix 14, wherein the inner collar includes a plurality of tabs configured to align with complementary surface features on the hair dryer to control the rotational orientation of the accessory to the hair dryer when the accessory is attached to the hair dryer. [Note 17] A first accessory having a first end having an air inlet and a second end having an air outlet, wherein the first end includes a first mounting assembly, To fit the first accessory onto the hair dryer, a first retaining groove is provided, configured to engage with an engagement mechanism on the hair dryer, A first outer collar having multiple first protrusions formed thereon, configured to actuate the accessory detection assembly on the hair dryer, A first accessory having a first inner collar having a first alignment mechanism configured to align the first accessory to at least one predetermined rotational orientation relative to a hair dryer, A second accessory having a first end having an air inlet and a second end having an air outlet, wherein the first end includes a second mounting assembly, and the second mounting assembly is To fit the second accessory onto the hair dryer, a second retaining groove is provided, configured to engage with an engagement mechanism on the hair dryer. A second outer collar, configured in a planar shape, allows the accessory detection assembly on the hair dryer to be maintained in its initial position. An accessory kit for use with a hair dryer, comprising a second accessory having a second inner collar configured to fit with the hair dryer so that the second accessory can rotate freely relative to the hair dryer. [Note 18] The third accessory further comprises a first end having an air inlet and a second end having an air outlet, wherein the first end includes a third mounting assembly, and the third mounting assembly is To fit the third accessory onto the hair dryer, a third retaining groove is provided, configured to engage with an engagement mechanism on the hair dryer. A third outer collar having multiple third protrusions formed thereon and configured to actuate an accessory detection assembly on a hair dryer, wherein the multiple third protrusions are different from the multiple first protrusions, The accessory kit according to Appendix 17, comprising: a third inner collar having a third alignment mechanism configured to align the third accessory to at least one predetermined rotational orientation relative to a hair dryer. [Note 19] A handheld housing having an air inlet and an air outlet configured to supply heated air, A mounting assembly adjacent to an exit end configured to mate with multiple different types of accessories, configured to align the accessories mounted thereto in a predetermined rotational orientation relative to the housing, and movable between multiple predetermined positions based on the type of accessories mounted thereto; A hair dryer comprising: a motor located within the housing and configured to supply air through the air outlet based on a plurality of predetermined stored settings corresponding to the type of accessory attached to the mounting assembly. [Note 20] The hair dryer according to Appendix 19, wherein the mounting assembly includes an inner collar at the air outlet, the mounting assembly having at least one surface feature configured to interact with a corresponding surface feature on the accessory in order to align the accessory to the hair dryer in a predetermined rotational orientation. [Note 21] The hair dryer according to Appendix 20, wherein at least one surface feature on the inner collar is configured to align the plurality of push rods and the operating mechanism on the accessory. [Note 22] The hair dryer according to Appendix 19, wherein the mounting assembly includes a plurality of push rods that are movable between a plurality of predetermined positions, based on the type of accessory to which the accessory is attached. [Note 23] The memory within the housing that stores the plurality of predetermined saved settings, The hair dryer according to Appendix 19, further comprising a processor configured to automatically operate the hair dryer in one of a plurality of predetermined saved settings based on the predetermined position of the mounting assembly.

Claims

1. Multiple different types of accessories, A hair dryer configured to be detachably fitted with one selected accessory from among the plurality of different types of accessories, wherein the hair dryer A housing having a motor, a heater, an input terminal, and an output terminal, wherein the input terminal is configured to allow air to be drawn into the housing, and the output terminal is configured to supply heated air via the heater, A memory configured to store different predetermined operating settings corresponding to each of the aforementioned multiple different types of accessories, wherein each of the stored different predetermined operating settings includes a setting for the motor speed and a setting for the heater temperature. An accessory detection assembly having at least one switch and at least one push rod configured to move axially with respect to the direction of the heated air supplied from the output end in order to engage with the at least one switch, A processor and a processor, the processor is When the hair dryer is activated with the hair dryer detachably fitted with one of the selected accessories from the plurality of different types of accessories, it receives an electrical signal generated by at least one switch, Based on the received electrical signal, the type of the selected accessory from among the plurality of different types of accessories is determined, and in order to enable the processor to determine the type of the selected accessory from among the plurality of different types of accessories, the electrical signal is specific to the selected accessory from among the plurality of different types of accessories, Based on the determined type of the selected accessory from the plurality of different types of accessories, a predetermined operating setting corresponding to the determined type is retrieved from the memory. A hair dryer system configured such that the hair dryer is detachably fitted with one of the selected accessories from a plurality of different types of accessories, and performs the removed predetermined operating settings.

2. The hair dryer system according to claim 1, wherein the processor and the memory are provided in the controller of the hair dryer.

3. The hair dryer system according to claim 1, wherein the processor is configured to automatically execute the retrieved predetermined operation settings.

4. The hair dryer system according to claim 1, wherein the at least one switch and the at least one push rod are configured to displace to a predetermined configuration in response to the selected accessory from among a plurality of different types of accessories detachably engaging with the accessory detection assembly.

5. The hair dryer system according to claim 1, wherein the speed setting of the motor is 0.0094 to 0.0165 m³ / s (20 to 35 cubic feet / min), and the heat setting of the heater is 55 to 100°C.

6. The hair dryer system according to claim 1, further comprising an alignment mechanism configured to align each of the plurality of different types of accessories to the hair dryer in at least one predetermined rotational orientation.

7. Each of the aforementioned multiple different types of accessories has at least one surface feature configured to interact with a corresponding surface feature on the hair dryer, Each of the aforementioned multiple different types of accessories has a color including at least one of the aforementioned surface features, The hair dryer system according to claim 1, wherein the collar protrudes axially from the air inlet of the accessory.

8. The hair dryer system according to claim 7, wherein the at least one surface feature is configured to align the accessory to a predetermined rotational orientation relative to the hair dryer.

9. The first of the aforementioned multiple different types of accessories is a curler, The hair dryer system according to claim 1, wherein the second accessory among the plurality of different types of accessories is a brush.

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