Hair styling apparatus and ejectable hair holder

Abstract

Hair styling apparatus includes a handle and a hair engagement member. The hair engagement member includes a hair contact surface configured to receive hair during a hair styling operation. The hair styling apparatus also includes a heating assembly configured to deliver heat to the hair on the hair contact surface. An ejectable hair holder is releasably mounted to at least one of the handle and the hair engagement member. The ejectable hair holder extends at least partly along the hair contact surface. The ejectable hair holder has a stowed position in which the ejectable hair holder is attached to the hair styling apparatus, and a deployed position in which the ejectable hair holder is released from the hair styling apparatus. The ejectable hair holder is configured to attach to the hair when the ejectable hair holder is released from the hair styling apparatus.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 723,853 filed Nov. 22, 2024 and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 733,313 filed Dec. 12, 2024.FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to hair styling apparatus and, more particularly, to hair styling apparatus having an ejectable hair holder.BACKGROUND

[0003] Traditional hair styling apparatuses have a hair engagement member (e.g., a rod or one or more arms) that provides a hair styling effect to hair. For example, the hair engagement member may include a hair heating surface that is heated during a styling operation. During use, hair is positioned on the hair heating surface and the hair is heated and styled. The hair styling device may include a clamp to secure the hair on the hair heating surface during the styling operation. After styling, the heated hair is removed from the hair heating surface. However, the hair may lose at least part of the hair styling effect when the heated hair is removed from the hair heating surface.

[0004] Sometimes, rollers or other devices are deployed in a user's hair for a styling operation. The rollers may or may not be heated to facilitate a styling operation. However, the rollers may be difficult to manipulate and position in the precise location of the hair that is desired to be styled and / or may not be completely effective at providing a desired hair styling effect. In addition, the rollers may cause damage to the hair if not used properly.

[0005] Therefore, there is a need for a styling apparatus to facilitate providing a styling effect to hair and securing the hair in a styled manner after the hair is removed from the heating surface.BRIEF DESCRIPTION

[0006] In one aspect, a hair styling apparatus includes an ejectable hair holder. The hair styling apparatus includes a handle and a hair engagement member attached to the handle and extending along a longitudinal axis. The hair engagement member includes a hair contact surface configured to receive hair during a hair styling operation. The hair styling apparatus also includes a heating assembly configured to deliver heat to the hair on the hair contact surface for a hair styling operation. The ejectable hair holder is releasably mounted to at least one of the handle and the hair engagement member. The ejectable hair holder extends at least partly along the hair contact surface. The ejectable hair holder has a stowed position in which the ejectable hair holder is attached to the hair styling apparatus, and a deployed position in which the ejectable hair holder is released from the hair styling apparatus. The ejectable hair holder is configured to attach to the hair when the ejectable hair holder is released from the hair styling apparatus.

[0007] In another aspect, an ejectable hair holder for use with a hair styling apparatus includes a handle and a hair engagement member is provided. The ejectable hair holder includes a base that is arranged to engage at least one of the handle or the hair engagement member. The ejectable hair holder has a stowed position in which the base is releasably mounted to the handle or the hair engagement member, and a deployed position in which the ejectable hair holder is detached from the hair styling apparatus. The ejectable hair holder also includes at least one arm attached to the base and arranged to receive hair. The ejectable hair holder is arranged to attach to the hair and secure a hair styling effect applied to the hair by the hair styling apparatus when the ejectable hair holder is in the deployed position.

[0008] In another aspect, a hair styling apparatus includes an ejectable hair holder. The hair styling apparatus includes a housing extending along a longitudinal axis, and a heating assembly mounted to the housing and configured to deliver heat to hair for a hair styling operation. The ejectable hair holder is releasably mounted to the housing and extends at least partly along the longitudinal axis. The ejectable hair holder is configured to engage the hair that is heated by the heating assembly and attach to the hair when the ejectable hair holder is released from the hair styling apparatus.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are further described with reference to the figures. It is to be noted that the various features, steps, and combinations of features / steps described below and illustrated in the figures can be arranged and organized differently to result in embodiments which are still within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0010] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one suitable embodiment of a hair styling apparatus of the present disclosure;

[0011] FIG. 2 is an enlarged, partial perspective view of the hair styling apparatus illustrating an ejectable hair holder of the hair styling apparatus;

[0012] FIG. 3 is an enlarged, partial perspective view of the hair styling apparatus illustrating the ejectable hair holder spaced from the other components of the hair styling apparatus;

[0013] FIG. 4 is an enlarged, partial side view of the hair styling apparatus illustrating the ejectable hair holder;

[0014] FIG. 5 is a view of the hair styling apparatus being deployed for engagement with hair for a hair styling operation;

[0015] FIG. 6 is a view of the hair styling apparatus illustrating the ejectable hair holder released from the hair styling apparatus and secured in the hair;

[0016] FIG. 7 is a schematic view of a hair styling apparatus and an ejectable hair holder having another suitable embodiment, the hair styling apparatus including a groove for receiving the ejectable hair holder; and

[0017] FIG. 8 is a schematic view of a hair styling apparatus and an ejectable hair holder having another suitable embodiment, the ejectable hair holder including a circumferential surface.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] Referring now to the figures and in particular to FIGS. 1-4, a hair styling apparatus, indicated generally at 10, includes an ejectable hair holder, indicated generally at 12. The hair styling apparatus 10 is configured for use in a hair styling operation. For example, the hair styling apparatus 10 may be used to curl, straighten, and / or otherwise style hair. The ejectable hair holder 12 is releasably attached to the hair styling apparatus 10 and is arranged to be deployed into hair before, during, and / or after the hair styling operation. The ejectable hair holder 12 secures the hair in the styled manner. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the hair styling apparatus 10 is configured to curl hair and the ejectable hair holder 12 is arranged to secure the hair in the curl.

[0019] As shown in at least in FIGS. 1-3, the hair styling apparatus 10 includes a hair engagement member 16, a handle 18, and a power cord 20 (e.g., partially illustrated in the figures). The hair engagement member 16 is attached to the handle 18 and extends coaxially along a common longitudinal axis 14. The hair engagement member 16 and the handle 18 collectively form a housing of the hair styling apparatus 10.

[0020] The handle 18 of the hair styling apparatus 10 includes a joint 22 that is attached to the hair engagement member 16 of the hair styling apparatus 10. The joint 22 tapers from a larger width at an end attached the hair engagement member 16 to a smaller width at the opposite end. The joint 22 includes a stand 24 that extends radially outward from the joint 22 on a side of the hair styling apparatus 10 opposite the ejectable hair holder 12. The stand 24 is arranged to support the hair styling apparatus 10 on a surface such that the hair engagement member 16 is spaced from the surface and the ejectable hair holder 12 is accessible.

[0021] In the illustrated embodiment, the hair engagement member 16 is permanently attached to the handle 18 (i.e., the hair engagement member 16 cannot be removed from the joint 22 of the handle 18 without disassembling or damaging the hair styling apparatus 10). In other suitable embodiments, the hair engagement member 16 is removable from the handle 18. In such embodiments, the hair styling apparatus 10 may include one or more additional hair engagement members 16 attachable to the handle when the hair engagement member 16 is removed from the handle. The additional hair engagement members 16 may be like the hair engagement member 16 illustrated in FIGS. 1-3 or be arranged to facilitate a different hair styling effect.

[0022] As shown in FIGS. 1-3, the hair engagement member 16 includes a hair contact surface 26 defining at least one heating area (e.g., heating area, indicated at 32). The hair contact surface 26 may be planar, curved, twisted, and combinations thereof. In the illustrated embodiment, the hair contact surface 26 is curved. The heating area 32 may be utilized to perform various hair styling tasks (e.g., curling). In the illustrated embodiment, the hair engagement member 16 forms a cylindrical barrel 28. The hair contact surface 26 extends circumferentially around the cylindrical barrel 28 and is arranged for the hair to wrap around the cylindrical barrel 28.

[0023] The illustrated hair styling apparatus 10 includes a heating assembly configured to deliver heat to hair for a hair styling operation. The heating assembly includes a heating element (not shown) in thermal communication with the hair contact surface 26. The hair engagement member 16 is configured to deliver heat from the heating element to the hair received on the hair contact surface 26 in the heating area 32 of the hair styling apparatus 10. The hair styling apparatus 10 provides a styling effect to the hair when the hair is heated on the hair contact surface 26. For example, the hair styling apparatus 10 curls the hair.

[0024] The ejectable hair holder 12 of the hair styling apparatus 10 is arranged to attach to the hair and secure the hair in the styled arrangement. For example, the ejectable hair holder 12 can secure the hair in the curled arrangement when the hair is removed from the hair contact surface 26. As a result, the ejectable hair holder 12 facilitates the hair maintaining the styling effect when the hair is no longer receiving heat from the heating assembly of the hair styling apparatus 10.

[0025] With reference again to FIG. 1, the hair styling apparatus 10 includes a tip 30. The tip 30 is positioned at a second end of hair engagement member 16 opposite a first end where the power cord 20 extends outwardly from the hair styling apparatus 10. The tip 30 is manufactured from a material that does not substantially increase in temperature when the one or more heating plates is active. For example, the tip 30 is at least partially manufactured from a material with a low thermal conductivity (e.g., rubber, plastic). Thus, a user may grip the tip 30 to maneuver and / or spin hair styling apparatus 10 without touching the heating area 32.

[0026] With reference to FIGS. 2 and 3, a mount 36 is attached to at least one of the handle 18 or the hair engagement member 16. In the illustrated embodiment, the mount 36 is attached to the joint 22 of the handle 18. The mount 36 is arranged to releasably secure the ejectable hair holder 12 to the hair styling apparatus 10 such that the ejectable hair holder 12 extends at least partly along and in overlying relationship with the hair contact surface 26.

[0027] The mount 36 includes a platform 40 and sidewalls 42 extending along and upward from edges of the platform 40. The sidewalls 42 and the platform 40 define a chamber 44 sized to receive the ejectable hair holder 12. For example, the chamber 44 extends along the platform 40 and between the sidewalls 42. The ejectable hair holder 12 is received within the chamber 44 between the sidewalls 42 when the ejectable hair holder 12 is attached to the hair styling apparatus 10. The ends of the chamber 44 are open to facilitate insertion and removal of the ejectable hair holder 12 from the chamber 44. In addition, the sidewalls 42 of the mount 36 are flexible to facilitate insertion of the ejectable hair holder 12 into the chamber 44 of the mount 36. When the ejectable hair holder 12 is within the chamber 44 of the mount 36, the sidewalls 42 of the mount 36 engage the ejectable hair holder 12 to retain the ejectable hair holder 12 within the chamber 44 of the mount 36.

[0028] The hair styling apparatus 10 further includes at least one switch, button, touchscreen, and / or user interface (generally, a control 45 seen in FIG. 1) configured to activate / deactivate the heating element. In one suitable embodiment, the hair styling apparatus 10 includes a power button (or “ON / OFF” switch), a temperature increase button (or “UP” switch), and a temperature decrease button (or “DOWN” switch). In suitable embodiments, the hair styling apparatus 10 can include a graphical user interface (e.g., an LCD display) to provide information relating to operation of the hair styling apparatus 10 (e.g., ON / OFF state). The hair styling apparatus 10 can also include a temperature indicator to display the current and / or desired temperature.

[0029] The hair styling apparatus 10 may include any suitable components. For example, in some suitable embodiments, the hair styling apparatus 10 includes a clamp movably attached to at least one of the handle 18 or the hair engagement member 16 and configured to secure the hair to the hair contact surface 26. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1-3, the ejectable hair holder 12 acts as a clamp and secures hair to the hair contact surface 26. In other suitable embodiments, the hair styling apparatus 10 includes a clamp separate from the ejectable hair holder 12. In such embodiments, the ejectable hair holder 12 may be connected to or arranged to operate in coordination with the clamp.

[0030] In some suitable embodiments, the hair styling apparatus 10 includes an ejection mechanism or actuator configured to deploy the ejectable hair holder 12 from the hair styling apparatus 10. For example, the ejection mechanism propels the ejectable hair holder 12 away from the hair styling apparatus 10 and into the hair when the ejectable hair holder 12 is released from the hair styling apparatus 10.

[0031] As seen in FIGS. 2 and 3, the ejectable hair holder 12 comprises a clip, indicated at 48, that extends at least partly along the longitudinal axis 14. For example, the clip 48 includes a first arm 50, a second arm 52, and a hinge 54 pivotably connecting the first arm 50 to the second arm 52. The ejectable hair holder 12 is positionable between an open position in which the clip 48 is arranged to receive hair between the arms 50, 52, and a closed position in which the arms 50, 52 are clamped onto the hair positioned between the arms 50, 52.

[0032] As seen in FIGS. 2 and 3, the first arm 50 includes prongs 66 that are arranged to engage hair between the first arm 50 and the second arm 52 when the ejectable hair holder 12 is in the closed position. For example, the prongs 66 are arranged in columns along the length of the first arm 50. The prongs 66 are in order of decreasing length from the free end of the first arm 50 to the end of the first arm 50 attached to the hinge 54.

[0033] A lever 34 is attached to the first arm 50 at the hinge 54 and is arranged for a user to switch the ejectable hair holder 12 between the open position and the closed position. The lever 34 extends from the first arm 50 at an angle relative to the first arm 50. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3, the lever 34 is oblique (e.g., not parallel or perpendicular) to the first arm 50. For example, the first arm 50 and the lever 34 form an obtuse angle. The lever 34 causes the first arm 50 to rotate about the hinge 54 and move relative to the second arm 52 when the user presses on the lever 34 (FIG. 5). As a result, the ejectable hair holder 12 moves from the closed position to the opened position when the user presses on the lever 34. The ejectable hair holder 12 returns to the closed position when a force is removed from the lever 34.

[0034] In the illustrated embodiment, the clip 48 includes a base 56 that extends from an end of the second arm 52 near the hinge 54. The base 56 is arranged to facilitate a user positioning the ejectable hair holder 12 relative to the hair styling apparatus 10. The base 56 includes the sidewalls 42, a web 60 extending between the sidewalls 58, and an end wall 62. The end wall 62 is attached to the sidewalls 58 at an end of the base 56 opposite the end attached to the second arm 52. The end wall 62 and the web 60 define a gap therebetween. A tab 64 extends upward from the end wall 62 for a user to contact and move the ejectable hair holder 12 relative to the hair styling apparatus 10.

[0035] The base 56 is arranged to fit within the chamber 44 of the hair styling apparatus 10 and engage the sidewalls 42 of the mount 36 of the hair styling apparatus 10. For example, in one suitable embodiment, the base 56 is rectangular and has a width substantially equal to a width of the chamber 44. The sidewalls 58 of the base 56 engage with the sidewalls 42 of the mount 36 to secure the ejectable hair holder 12 within the chamber 44. In another suitable embodiment, the mount 36 includes a nub (not shown) sized and shaped for engaging the underside of the base 56. In such an embodiment, the base 56 may or may not include a complimentary recess (not shown) to accommodate the nub on the mount 36. In yet another suitable embodiment, the ejectable hair holder 12 can be selectively held to the hair styling apparatus 10 by the sidewalls 58 of the base 56 engaging with the sidewalls 42 of the mount 36, and by the nub engaging the underside of the base.

[0036] The ejectable hair holder 12 has a stowed position in which the base is releasably attached to the mount 36, and a deployed position in which the ejectable hair holder 12 is detached from the mount 36. The ejectable hair holder 12 is secured in the chamber 44 of the mount 36 when the ejectable hair holder 12 is in the stowed position. The sidewalls 42 of the mount 36 engage the sidewalls 58 of the base 56 of the ejectable hair holder 12 when the ejectable hair holder 12 is in the stowed position. In the stowed position, the ejectable hair holder 12 remains secured to the hair styling apparatus 10 within the chamber 44 when the user manipulates the hair styling apparatus 10 to perform a hair styling operation. In the illustrated embodiment, the ejectable hair holder 12 extends at least partly along and in overlying relationship with the hair contact surface 26 when the ejectable hair holder 12 is a stowed position.

[0037] In the deployed position, the ejectable hair holder 12 is released from the chamber 44 and arranged to be secured to hair. The ejectable hair holder 12 attaches to the hair positioned on the hair contact surface 26 of the hair engagement member 16. For example, the arms 50, 52 of the ejectable hair holder 12 clamp onto hair that is received between the arms 50, 52. The ejectable hair holder 12 is attached to the hair and is free from the hair styling apparatus 10 (e.g., the ejectable hair holder 12 does not engage or contact the hair styling apparatus 10) in the deployed position.

[0038] The ejectable hair holder 12 is movably positionable relative to the mount 36 to switch between the stowed position and the deployed position. In the illustrated example, the ejectable hair holder 12 is positioned near the handle 18 in the stowed position and slides in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis 14 to switch between the stowed position and the deployed position. That is, the ejectable hair holder 12 slides away from the handle 18 and towards the tip 30 to move from the stowed position to the deployed position. The ejectable hair holder 12 is released from the mount 36 and in the deployed position when the base 56 of the ejectable hair holder 12 clears the mount 36. In some suitable embodiments, the hair engaged with the ejectable hair holder 12 is removed from the hair contact surface 26 when the ejectable hair holder 12 is switched from the stowed position to the deployed position.

[0039] The hinge 54 movably connects the first arm 50 to the second arm 52. The hinge 54 includes pins 68 and sidewalls 70. The pins 68 extend from one of the first arm 50 and the second arm 52 and the sidewalls 70 extend from the other of the first arm 50 and the second arm 52. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3, the pins 68 extend from the first arm 50 and the sidewalls 70 extend from the second arm 52. Specifically, the sidewalls 70 extend upwards from sides of the second arm 52 at the end of the second arm 52 attached to the base 56. The sidewalls 70 are arranged to extend along sides of the first arm 50 at the end of the first arm 50 attached to the lever 34. The sidewalls 70 defining openings 72 arranged to receive the pins 68 and rotatably support the pins 68. As a result, the first arm 50 is able to rotate relative to the second arm 52 and about an axis extending through the hinge 54.

[0040] When the ejectable hair holder 12 is in the opened position and attached to the hair styling apparatus 10, the ejectable hair holder 12 is arranged to receive hair between the first arm 50 and the second arm 52. For example, the second arm 52 extends along and in overlying relationship with the hair contact surface 26 of the hair styling apparatus 10 when the ejectable hair holder 12 is attached to the hair styling apparatus 10. Therefor, when the ejectable hair holder 12 is in the open position, hair that is received on the hair contact surface 26 of the hair styling apparatus 10 extends across and engages the second arm 52. The first arm 50 and the second arm 52 clamp onto the hair positioned on the hair contact surface 26 and the second arm 52 when the ejectable hair holder 12 is moved to the closed position.

[0041] In some suitable embodiments, the ejectable hair holder 12 includes a bias mechanism (e.g., a spring) configured to bias the ejectable hair holder 12 towards the closed position. For example, the bias mechanism can include a coil spring that is positioned at the hinge 54 and includes free ends that engage and bias the first arm 50 and the second arm 52 toward the closed position. Alternatively or additionally, the ejectable hair holder 12 includes a fastener or closure mechanism to secure the ejectable hair holder 12 in the closed position and prevent the ejectable hair holder 12 from inadvertently detaching from the hair.

[0042] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, in operation, a user positions the ejectable hair holder 12 in the stowed position by positioning the base 56 of the ejectable hair holder 12 into the chamber 44 of the mount 36. In the stowed position, the ejectable hair holder 12 extends along and in overlying relationship with the hair contact surface 26. The ejectable hair holder 12 is switched from the closed position to the open position by pressing the lever 34. In the open position, the second arm 52 extends along and in overlying relationship with the hair contact surface 26 and the first arm 50 is spaced from the second arm 52 such that hair may be positioned between the first arm 50 and the second arm 52 and onto the hair contact surface 26 (FIG. 5).

[0043] The user positions hair onto the hair contact surface 26 of the hair engagement member 16. For example, the user wraps the hair around the hair engagement member 16. The hair extends across the second arm 52 of the ejectable hair holder 12 when the hair is wrapped around the hair engagement member 16. The user moves the ejectable hair holder 12 to the closed position and clamps hair between the first arm 50 and the second arm 52. The ejectable hair holder 12 engages the hair. For example, the prongs 66 on the first arm 50 engage the hair.

[0044] The user activates the heating element and heat is delivered to the hair through the hair contact surface 26. The heat causes the hair to be more flexible and susceptible to changes in shape. Accordingly, the user can manipulate the hair styling apparatus 10 to perform one or more styling operations for the hair such as straightening, curling, and combinations thereof.

[0045] When the styling operation is complete, a user deploys the ejectable hair holder 12 from the hair styling apparatus 10 and removes the hair from the hair contact surface 26 (FIG. 6). For example, the user slides the ejectable hair holder 12 relative to the mount 36 and in a direction away from the handle 18 and toward the tip 30 of the hair styling apparatus 10. The hair attached to the ejectable hair holder 12 is removed from the hair contact surface 26 as the ejectable hair holder 12 is deployed. When released from the hair styling apparatus 10, the ejectable hair holder 12 is attached to the hair and secures the hair in the styled manner. For example, the ejectable hair holder 12 secures the hair in a curl. The ejectable hair holder 12 prevents the hair from losing the styling effect when the hair is removed from the hair contact surface 26.

[0046] After the ejectable hair holder 12 is deployed, the user may load another ejectable hair holder 12 into the chamber 44 of the mount 36 to prepare for styling another section of hair. The user switches the ejectable hair holder 12 to the open position. A user may then position another section of hair between the hair engagement member 16 and clamp hair styling apparatus 10 onto the hair.

[0047] Any steps of the process may be repeated any number of times. For example, the hair styling apparatus 10 may be used to deploy a plurality of the ejectable hair holders 12 during a hair styling operation. For example, one of the ejectable hair holder 12 may be attached to a section of hair each time the section of hair is received on the hair contact surface 26 and a hair styling effect is applied to the hair. To facilitate use of multiple ejectable hair holders 12, a kit may include a plurality of the ejectable hair holders 12 and / or the hair styling apparatus 10 packaged together.

[0048] FIG. 7 is a schematic view of a hair styling apparatus 100 and an ejectable hair holder 122. The hair styling apparatus 100 may be any suitable hair styling apparatus such as a curler, a straighter, a hair dryer, or combinations thereof.

[0049] The hair styling apparatus 100 includes a housing 104 defining a chamber 114 extending along a longitudinal axis 108 and sized to receive the ejectable hair holder 122. For example, the chamber 114 has a width that is equal to or slightly larger than the maximum width of the ejectable hair holder 122.

[0050] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 7, the ejectable hair holder 122 is a pin. The ejectable hair holder 122 includes a cylindrical body 106, a tip 110, and a step 112. The ejectable hair holder 122 extends along a longitudinal axis 108 when the ejectable hair holder 122 is attached to the hair styling apparatus 100. The tip 110 is attached to and extends axially from the cylindrical body 106. The tip 110 has a smaller width than the cylindrical body 106. The step 112 extends between the cylindrical body 106 and the tip 110 and defines a transition and engagement surface between the cylindrical body 106 and the tip 110.

[0051] The housing 104 is arranged to engage the ejectable hair holder 122 when the ejectable hair holder 122 is positioned within the chamber 114. For example, the housing 104 includes at least one protrusion 116 that extends into the chamber 114 and engages the ejectable hair holder 122 within the chamber 114. For example, the protrusion 116 engages the step 112 of the ejectable hair holder 122. The protrusion 116 extends continuously around the entire circumference of the chamber 114. In other suitable embodiments, the protrusion 116 or protrusions 116 extend along only a portion of the circumference of the chamber 114.

[0052] The protrusion 116 is displaceable to facilitate the ejectable hair holder 122 being inserted into the chamber 114. For example, the protrusion 116 deforms or moves radially between a first position and a second position to accommodate the ejectable hair holder 122 moving past the protrusion. In the first position, the protrusion 116 engages the step 112 of the ejectable hair holder 122 when the ejectable hair holder 122 is secured within the chamber 114. In the second position, the protrusion 116 is radially outward of the cylindrical body 106. In some suitable embodiments, at least a portion of the housing 104 and / or the ejectable hair holder 122 is flexible and facilitates the ejectable hair holder 122 being inserted into the chamber 114.

[0053] As seen in FIG. 7, in operation, the ejectable hair holder 122 is moved in an insertion direction 118 and inserted into the chamber 114. The insertion direction 118 is parallel to the longitudinal axis 108. In other suitable embodiments, the insertion direction 118 is not parallel to the longitudinal axis 108. For example, the insertion direction 118 may be perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 108 or oblique to the longitudinal axis 108.

[0054] The ejectable hair holder 122 is inserted until the cylindrical body 106 is axially beyond the protrusion 116. The protrusion 116 is displaced to accommodate the cylindrical body 106. When the cylindrical body 106 is beyond the protrusion 116, the protrusion 116 engages the step 112 of the ejectable hair holder 122 to secure the ejectable hair holder 122 within the chamber 114.

[0055] To deploy the ejectable hair holder 122, the ejectable hair holder 122 is moved in the insertion direction relative to the housing 104. The ejectable hair holder 122 is moved until the ejectable hair holder 122 is clear of the housing 104. The ejectable hair holder 122 is configured to attach to hair when the ejectable hair holder 122 is deployed. In one suitable embodiment, the ejectable hair holder 122 surrounds and captures the hair from two sides. Suitably, the ejectable hair holder 122 closes enough to make sufficient contact to remain in place.

[0056] FIG. 8 is a schematic view of a hair styling apparatus 200 and an ejectable hair holder 202. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 8, the hair styling apparatus 200 includes a handle 204 and a barrel 206 extending along a common longitudinal axis 208. The handle 204 and the barrel 206 collectively define a housing. The ejectable hair holder 202 is releasably attached to the handle 204 and / or the barrel 206.

[0057] As seen in FIG. 8, the ejectable hair holder 202 includes a circumferential wall 210 defining a hair contact surface 212. The ejectable hair holder 202 is elongate and the hair contact surface 212 extends around the longitudinal axis 208 when the ejectable hair holder 202 is attached to the hair styling apparatus 200. The hair contact surface 212 is arranged for hair to be wrapped around the hair contact surface 212. In suitable embodiments, the hair styling apparatus 200 includes a heating element (not shown) mounted within the barrel 206 and configured to deliver heat to hair positioned on the hair contact surface 212. Accordingly, the hair styling apparatus 200 and the ejectable hair holder 202 are used to form a curl in the hair.

[0058] In operation, the ejectable hair holder 202 is positioned onto and releasably attached to the barrel 206. The hair is positioned onto the hair contact surface 212 and wrapped around the ejectable hair holder 202. The hair styling apparatus 200 is activated and heat is delivered to the hair through the barrel 206 and the ejectable hair holder 202. The hair styling apparatus 200 forms the hair into a curl and the ejectable hair holder 202 secures the curl in the hair. In some suitable embodiments, the ejectable hair holder 202 includes a clip to secure the ejectable hair holder 202 to the hair. The ejectable hair holder 202 holds the curl in the hair when the hair is removed from the hair styling apparatus 200.

[0059] To deploy the ejectable hair holder 202, the ejectable hair holder 202 is moved in a release direction 214 relative to the barrel 206. The release direction 214 is parallel to the longitudinal axis 208. The ejectable hair holder 202 is moved until the ejectable hair holder 202 is clear of the barrel 206.

[0060] Embodiments described herein provide advantages such as simplifying hair styling operations and providing improved hair styling operations. For example, the ejectable hair holder secures hair in a styled manner to prevent the hair deforming when the heated hair is removed from the hair styling apparatus. In addition, the ejectable hair holder is deployed from the hair styling apparatus directly into the hair precisely where the hair was styled.

[0061] As used herein, “a”, “an”, and “the” refer to both singular and plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0062] As used herein, spatially relative terms, such as “beneath”, “below”, “lower”, “above”, “upper”, “front”, “back”, “side”, “left”, “right”, “rear”, and the like, are used for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s). It is further understood that the terms “front”, “back”, “left”, “right”, “top”, and “bottom” are not intended to be limiting and are intended to be interchangeable, where appropriate. Further, it should be noted that the terms “first,”“second,” and the like herein do not denote any order, quantity, or relative importance, but rather are used to distinguish one element from another.

[0063] As used herein, the terms “comprise(s)”, “comprising”, and the like, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0064] As used herein, the terms “configure(s)”, “configuring”, and the like, refer to the capability of a component and / or assembly, but do not preclude the presence or addition of other capabilities, features, components, elements, operations, and any combinations thereof.

[0065] All ranges disclosed herein are inclusive of the endpoints, and the endpoints are independently combinable with each other. Each range disclosed herein constitutes a disclosure of any point or sub-range lying within the disclosed range.

[0066] All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”), is intended merely to better illustrate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention or any embodiments unless otherwise claimed.

[0067] Any combination or permutation of features, functions and / or embodiments as disclosed herein is envisioned. Additional advantageous features, functions and applications of the disclosed systems, methods and assemblies of the present disclosure will be apparent from the description which follows, particularly when read in conjunction with the appended figures. All references listed in this disclosure are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties.

[0068] While the invention has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made, and equivalents may be substituted for the elements thereof without departing from the scope of the invention. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt the teaching of the invention to particular use, application, manufacturing conditions, use conditions, composition, medium, size, and / or materials without departing from the essential scope and spirit of the invention. Therefore, it is intended that the invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiments and best mode contemplated for carrying out this invention as described herein. Since many modifications, variations, and changes in detail can be made to the described examples, it is intended that all matters in the preceding description and shown in the accompanying figures be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense.

Claims

1. A hair styling apparatus comprising:a handle;a hair engagement member attached to the handle and extending along a longitudinal axis, the hair engagement member including a hair contact surface configured to receive hair during a hair styling operation; anda heating assembly configured to deliver heat to the hair on the hair contact surface for the hair styling operation; andan ejectable hair holder releasably mounted to at least one of the handle and the hair engagement member, the ejectable hair holder extending at least partly along the hair contact surface, wherein the ejectable hair holder has a stowed position in which the ejectable hair holder is attached to the hair styling apparatus, and a deployed position in which the ejectable hair holder is released from the hair styling apparatus, and wherein the ejectable hair holder is configured to attach to the hair when the ejectable hair holder is released from the hair styling apparatus.

2. The hair styling apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a mount attached to at least one of the handle and the hair engagement member and defining a chamber configured to receive the ejectable hair holder when the ejectable hair holder is in the stowed position.

3. The hair styling apparatus of claim 2, wherein the ejectable hair holder is configured to move relative to the mount in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis to switch between the stowed position and the deployed position.

4. The hair styling apparatus of claim 1, wherein the ejectable hair holder comprises a clip including a first arm, a second arm, and a hinge connecting the first arm to the second arm, wherein at least one of the first arm and the second arm extends at least partly along the longitudinal axis when the ejectable hair holder is attached to the hair styling apparatus.

5. The hair styling apparatus of claim 1, wherein the ejectable hair holder comprises a circumferential surface configured to receive hair such that the hair is wrapped around the ejectable hair holder.

6. The hair styling apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a clamp movably attached to at least one of the handle and the hair engagement member and configured to secure the hair to the hair contact surface.

7. The hair styling apparatus of claim 1, wherein the hair engagement member includes a cylindrical barrel, wherein the hair contact surface extends circumferentially around the cylindrical barrel and is arranged for the hair to wrap around the cylindrical barrel.

8. The hair styling apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a heating element in thermal communication with the hair contact surface, wherein the hair engagement member is configured to deliver heat from the heating element to the hair received on the hair contact surface.

9. The hair styling apparatus of claim 1, wherein the hair engagement member includes a barrel extending along the longitudinal axis and sized to receive the ejectable hair holder.

10. The hair styling apparatus of claim 1, wherein the hair engagement member is removable from the handle.

11. An ejectable hair holder for use with a hair styling apparatus including a handle and a hair engagement member, the ejectable hair holder comprising:a base that is arranged to engage at least one of the handle or the hair engagement member, wherein the ejectable hair holder has a stowed position in which the base is releasably mounted to the handle or the hair engagement member, and a deployed position in which the ejectable hair holder is detached from the hair styling apparatus; andat least one arm attached to the base and arranged to receive hair, wherein the ejectable hair holder is arranged to attach to the hair and secure a hair styling effect applied to the hair by the hair styling apparatus when the ejectable hair holder is in the deployed position.

12. The ejectable hair holder of claim 11, wherein the at least one arm comprises a first arm and a second arm, and further comprising a hinge pivotably connecting the first arm to the second arm.

13. The ejectable hair holder of claim 12, wherein the ejectable hair holder is positionable between an open position and a closed position, the ejectable hair holder is configured to clamp onto hair in the closed position.

14. The ejectable hair holder of claim 13, further comprising a bias mechanism configured to bias the ejectable hair holder toward the closed position.

15. The ejectable hair holder of claim 11, further comprising a circumferential surface extending around the arm such that the ejectable hair holder forms a roller.

16. A kit including a plurality of the ejectable hair holder of claim 11.

17. The kit of claim 16, further comprising a hair styling apparatus including a handle, a hair engagement member, and a mount configured to receive the ejectable hair holder.

18. A hair styling apparatus comprising:a housing extending along a longitudinal axis; anda heating assembly mounted to the housing and configured to deliver heat to hair for a hair styling operation; andan ejectable hair holder releasably mounted to the housing and extends at least partly along the longitudinal axis, wherein the ejectable hair holder is configured to engage the hair that is heated by the heating assembly and attach to the hair when the ejectable hair holder is released from the hair styling apparatus.

19. The hair styling apparatus of claim 18, wherein the ejectable hair holder comprises a first arm, a second arm, and a hinge pivotably connecting the first arm to the second arm, wherein the ejectable hair holder is positionable between an open position, and a closed position, the ejectable hair holder is configured to clamp onto hair in the closed position.

20. The hair styling apparatus of claim 18, wherein the ejectable hair holder includes a circumferential surface configured to receive hair such that the hair is wrapped around the ejectable hair holder.

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