A hair styling apparatus

Abstract

A hair styling apparatus having a first arm and a second arm. The first and second arms define a cavity therebetween for receiving hair. The cavity has a leading opening defined between opposed leading edges of the first and second arms, and a trailing opening defined between opposed trailing edges of the first and second arms. The first arm comprises a first air outlet for emitting air towards the cavity, and the apparatus further comprises a tensioner defining a hair tensioning path for tensioning hair within the cavity. The first air outlet is interposed between the trailing edge of the first arm and the tensioner. Also disclosed is a hair styling apparatus including a hair tensioning path having first and second deflections.

Description

[0001] A HAIR STYLING APPARATUS

[0002] BACKGROUND

[0003] Hair styling apparatuses are known for styling hair. Some hair styling apparatuses (e.g. hair straighteners) include arms, between which hair to be styled can be received. Likewise, some apparatuses make use of air (e.g. heated air) to assist in styling the hair.

[0004] SUMMARY

[0005] In a first aspect there is disclosed a hair styling apparatus having a first arm and a second arm, the first and second arms defining a cavity therebetween for receiving hair, the cavity having a leading opening defined between opposed leading edges of the first and second arms, and a trailing opening defined between opposed trailing edges of the first and second arms, wherein the first arm comprises a first air outlet for emitting air towards the cavity, the apparatus further comprising a tensioner defining a hair tensioning path for tensioning hair within the cavity, characterised in that the first air outlet is interposed between the trailing edge of the first arm and the tensioner.

[0006] Providing a tensioner can aid in styling hair that is received in the cavity between the first and second arms. The provision of an air outlet that can emit air onto hair held between the arms can further aid in styling the hair (by drying the hair and / or heating the hair if, for example, the air is heated). By positioning the first air outlet between the trailing edge of the first arm and the tensioner, the air discharged from the first air outlet can be emitted onto tensioned hair (i.e. hair that extends between the tensioner and a user’s scalp so as to be placed under tension). Again, this can facilitate styling.

[0007] Even further, such positioning of the first air outlet can ensure that air can be emitted onto hair that is close to a user’s scalp (i.e. hair roots). That is, by positioning the outlet closer to the trailing edge than the tensioner, the outlet will be closer to the user’s scalp when the apparatus is positioned against the scalp in order to style the hair roots. In this way, air can be emitted onto hair that is close to the scalp.

[0008] By way of counterexample, if the tensioner were instead positioned between the outlet and the trailing edge, the outlet would need to be further away from the trailing edge to accommodate the tensioner. In this counterexample, when the apparatus is against the user’s scalp (to style hair roots) there will be a length of hair (extending from the scalp and across the tensioner) onto which air cannot be emitted (likewise, the tensioner could disrupt any air directed towards the roots).

[0009] For the avoidance of doubt, the term “trailing” and “leading” are a reference to movement of the apparatus along a tress of hair in normal use. That is, as the apparatus is moved along a tress, a given section of hair will first pass into the cavity through the leading opening (between the leading edges) and then pass from the cavity through the trailing opening (between the trailing edges).

[0010] Optional features of the first aspect will now be set out. These are applicable singly or in any combination with any aspect.

[0011] At least a part of the tensioner may be substantially equidistant from both the leading and trailing openings. At least a part of the tensioner may be substantially equidistant from the leading and trailing edges of the first arm and / or from the leading and trailing edges of the second arm. As already set forth above, such positioning may allow the first air outlet to be positioned closer to the trailing edge of the first arm.

[0012] The tensioner may comprise a first tensioning plate on the first arm and a second tensioning plate on the second arm. The first and second tensioning plates may be opposing and parallel to each other to provide the hair tensioning path therebetween. Each tensioning plate may comprise a first deflection. Each tensioning plate may comprise a second deflection. In this way, the hair tensioning path may comprise a first deflection and may also comprise a second deflection.

[0013] At least one tensioning plate may comprise an elastomer (e.g. silicone rubber). At least one tensioning plate may comprise a rigid, non-elastic, material (e.g. aluminium). At least one tensioning plate may comprise a low-friction coating (e.g. a ceramic coating). For example, one tensioning plate may comprise an elastomer (e.g. silicone rubber) and the other tensioning plate may comprise a non-elastic material (e.g. aluminium, optionally with a coating such as a ceramic coating).

[0014] The provision of a hair tensioning path with one or more deflections may increase the tension that can be applied to hair extending along the tensioning path. The deflections themselves increase the resistance to the passage of hair along the path in use. Likewise, by providing deflections the hair tensioning path can be longer (for a given apparatus size), meaning that a greater length of hair may be held within the tensioning path. Each of the first and second tensioning plates may comprise a respective trailing portion proximal the trailing opening (and e.g. the trailing edges), a respective leading portion proximal the leading opening (and e.g. the leading edges) and a respective tensioning portion interposed between the respective trailing and leading portions.

[0015] The first and second deflections may be at explementary angles on each of the first and second tensioning plates. That is, the angles of the first and second deflections of the first tensioning plate may be explementary, and the angles of the first and second deflections of the second tensioning plate may be explementary.

[0016] In some embodiments, the angles of the first deflections of the first and second tensioning plates may be explementary. The angles of the second deflections of the first and second tensioning plates may be explementary.

[0017] The first deflection of the first tensioning plate may be between the leading portion and the tensioning portion of the first tensioning plate. An angle of the first deflection of the first tensioning plate may be greater than 90 degrees and less than 180 degrees. For example, the angle may be from 110 and 160 degrees. For the avoidance of doubt, deflection angles referred to herein are taken on the side of the respective tensioning plate that is facing the cavity.

[0018] The first deflection of the second tensioning plate may be between the leading portion and the tensioning portion of the second tensioning plate. An angle of the first deflection of the second tensioning plate may be greater than 180 degrees and less than 270 degrees. For example, the angle may be from 200 degrees to 250 degrees.

[0019] The second deflection of the first tensioning plate may be between the tensioning portion and trailing portion of the first tensioning plate. An angle of the second deflection of the first tensioning plate may be greater than 180 degrees and less than 270 degrees. For example, the angle may be from 200 degrees to 250 degrees.

[0020] The second deflection of the second tensioning plate may be between the tensioning portion and the trailing portion of the second tensioning plate. An angle of the second deflection of the second tensioning plate may be greater than 90 degrees and less than 180 degrees. For example, the angle may be from 110 degrees to 160 degrees. A trailing portion of the hair tensioning path between the trailing portions of the first and second tensioning plates may be parallel to a leading portion of the hair tensioning path between the leading portions of the first and second tensioning plates. In this way, as the apparatus is moved along a tress of hair, the hair enters and leaves the cavity at the same angle.

[0021] The leading portion of the hair tensioning path may be coaxial with the leading opening and / or the trailing portion of the hair tensioning path may be coaxial with the trailing opening. That is, an axis extending generally centrally along the leading / trailing portion may be coaxial with an axis extending centrally through the respective leading / trailing opening.

[0022] The second arm may comprise a second air outlet for emitting air towards the cavity. The second air outlet may be interposed between the tensioner and the leading edge of the second arm. Thus, the tensioner may be interposed between the first and second air outlets.

[0023] The first air outlet may be adjacent the trailing opening. The first air outlet may be adjacent the trailing edge of the first arm. The second air outlet may be adjacent the leading opening. The second air outlet may be adjacent the leading edge of the second arm.

[0024] The first air outlet may be less than 5mm from the trailing opening (or trailing edge), for example less than 3mm from the trailing opening (or trailing edge), for example around 2mm from the trailing opening (or trailing edge).

[0025] The first and / or second air outlet may comprise one or more apertures (e.g. slots). For example, the first and / or second air outlet may comprise a slot or a plurality of apertures aligned in a row.

[0026] The first and / or second arms may comprise means for flow of air to the first air outlet and second air outlet (when present). The first arm may comprise a first plenum comprising the first air outlet. The second arm may comprise a second plenum comprising the second air outlet.

[0027] The first and / or second plenum may be elongate. The first and / or second plenum may extend for a substantial length (e.g. more than half of the length) of the respective first or second arm. The first and / or second plenum may extend for substantially the entire length of the respective first or second arm. The first tensioning plate may define an inner portion of the first plenum. The second tensioning plate may define an inner portion of the second plenum. For the avoidance of doubt, the term “inner” is used to refer to a position towards the interior of the apparatus (i.e. towards the cavity). On the other hand, the term “outer” is used to refer to a position that is towards an exterior of the apparatus (i.e. away from the cavity).

[0028] The first plenum may comprise a first plenum wall defining an outer portion of the first plenum. The first plenum wall may be integrally formed with the first tensioning plate. The second plenum may comprise a second plenum wall defining an outer portion of the second plenum. The second plenum wall may be integrally formed with the second tensioning plate. Such an arrangement may simplify construction of the apparatus.

[0029] The first tensioning plate may comprise an extension for guiding hair to the trailing opening. The extension may further define an inner edge of the first air outlet. The second tensioning plate may comprise an extension for guiding hair into the hair tensioning path. The extension of the second tensioning plate may further define an inner edge of the second air outlet.

[0030] The second arm may comprise a first air inlet for receiving air emitted from the first air outlet. The first air inlet may oppose the first air outlet. The first air inlet may be positioned across the cavity from the first air outlet. The first air inlet may be positioned between the second tensioning plate and the trailing edge of the second arm.

[0031] The first arm may comprise a second air inlet for receiving air emitted from the second air outlet. The second air inlet may oppose the second air outlet. The second air inlet may be positioned across the cavity from the second air outlet. The second air inlet may be positioned between the first tensioning plate and the leading edge of the first arm.

[0032] The first and / or second air inlet may comprise one or more apertures (e.g. slots). For example, the first and / or second air inlet may comprise a slot or a plurality of apertures aligned in a row.

[0033] The second arm may comprise a perforated outer shell (e.g. may comprise one or more perforations) for venting air received at the first air inlet. The first arm may comprise a perforated outer shell (e.g. may comprise one or more perforations) for venting air received at the second air inlet. One or both of the first and second arms may comprise an internal chamber defined between the respective outer shell and the respective first or second plenum. The first air inlet and / or the second air inlet may be arranged to direct air into the internal chamber of the respective first or second arm.

[0034] One or both of the leading and trailing edges may define a corner (e.g. abrupt surface transition), or may be rounded (or may take another form, e.g. may be a transition in component or surface material). In general terms, one or both of the leading and trailing edges may represent a region wherein a surface of the (first or second) arm transitions from being an internal surface of the arm (e.g. defining the cavity) to an external surface of the arm.

[0035] The first and / or second arm may be elongate. Each arm may have a proximal end and an opposite distal end. The distal end of the first and / or second arm may be a free end of the arm. The first and second arms may be connected at their proximal ends. The first and second arms may be moveably connected (directly or via a further structure) for movement relative to one another. For example, the first and second arms may be hingedly connected (directly or via a further structure).

[0036] Accordingly, the first and second arms may be moveable between a first position and a second position. The first and second arms may be spaced further apart in the second position than in the first position (e.g. the distal ends may be spaced further apart, when the arms are connected at their proximal ends). The first position may be a closed or clamping position, in which the first and second arms (e.g. the distal ends of the first and second arms) are brought together. The first and second arms may be configured for clamping hair (e.g. via the tensioner) when in the closed / clamping position. The second position may be an open position.

[0037] The apparatus may comprise an air mover (e.g. a compressor) for moving air to the first and / or second air outlet (e.g. via the plenum(s)). The apparatus may comprise a heater arranged to heat air moved by the air mover. The apparatus may comprise an inlet for receipt of external air (i.e. to be supplied to the outlet(s) of the arm(s)).

[0038] The apparatus may be a hair straightener.

[0039] Above it is described that the tensioner may comprise tensioning plates. In some embodiments, the tensioner may additionally or alternatively comprise tensioning elements. For example, the first arm may comprise a first tensioning element and the second arm may comprise a second tensioning element. The tensioning elements may be arranged so as to be urged towards one another. One or both of the first and second arms may comprise a biasing member for biasing the respective first or second tensioning element towards the other tensioning element. In this way, in use, hair may be clamped between the first and second tensioning elements to allow a user to apply tension to the hair using the apparatus.

[0040] In a second aspect there is disclosed a hair styling apparatus having a first arm and a second arm, the first and second arms defining a cavity therebetween for receiving hair, the cavity having a leading opening defined between opposed leading edges of the first and second arms, and a trailing opening defined between opposed trailing edges of the first and second arms. The apparatus may further include a tensioner defining a hair tensioning path for tensioning hair within the cavity. The tensioner may include a first tensioning plate on the first arm and a second tensioning plate on the second arm, the first and second tensioning plates opposing and parallel to each other to provide the hair tensioning path therebetween, wherein each tensioning plate comprises a respective first deflection and second deflection such that the hair tensioning path comprises first and second deflections.

[0041] Providing a tensioner can aid in styling hair that is received in the cavity between the first and second arms. The provision of a hair tensioning path with one or more deflections may increase the tension that can be applied to hair extending along the tensioning path. The deflections themselves increase the resistance to the passage of hair along the path in use. Likewise, by providing deflections the hair tensioning path can be longer (for a given apparatus size), meaning that a greater length of hair may be held within the tensioning path.

[0042] For the avoidance of doubt, the term “trailing” and “leading” are a reference to movement of the apparatus along a tress of hair in normal use. That is, as the apparatus is moved along a tress, a given section of hair will first pass into the cavity through the leading opening (between the leading edges) and then pass from the cavity through the trailing opening (between the trailing edges).

[0043] Optional features of the second aspect will now be set out. These are applicable singly or in any combination with any aspect.

[0044] At least a part of the tensioner may be substantially equidistant from both the leading and trailing openings. At least a part of the tensioner may be substantially equidistant from the leading and trailing edges of the first arm and / or from the leading and trailing edges of the second arm.

[0045] At least one tensioning plate may comprise an elastomer (e.g. silicone rubber). At least one tensioning plate may comprise a rigid, non-elastic material (e.g. aluminium). At least one tensioning plate may comprise a low-friction coating (e.g. a ceramic coating). For example, one tensioning plate may comprise an elastomer (e.g. silicone rubber) and the other tensioning plate may comprise a non-elastic material (e.g. aluminium, optionally with a coating such as a ceramic coating).

[0046] Each of the first and second tensioning plates may comprise a respective trailing portion proximal the trailing opening (and e.g. the trailing edges), a respective leading portion proximal the leading opening (and e.g. the leading edges) and a respective tensioning portion interposed between the respective trailing and leading portions.

[0047] The first and second deflections may be at explementary angles on each of the first and second tensioning plates. That is, the angles of the first and second deflections of the first tensioning plate may be explementary, and the angles of the first and second deflections of the second tensioning plate may be explementary.

[0048] In some embodiments, the angles of the first deflections of the first and second tensioning plates may be explementary. The angles of the second deflections of the first and second tensioning plates may be explementary.

[0049] The first deflection of the first tensioning plate may be between the leading portion and the tensioning portion of the first tensioning plate. An angle of the first deflection of the first tensioning plate may be greater than 90 degrees and less than 180 degrees. For example, the angle may be from 110 and 160 degrees. For the avoidance of doubt, deflection angles referred to herein are taken on the side of the respective tensioning plate that is facing the cavity.

[0050] The first deflection of the second tensioning plate may be between the leading portion and the tensioning portion of the second tensioning plate. An angle of the first deflection of the second tensioning plate may be greater than 180 degrees and less than 270 degrees. For example, the angle may be from 200 degrees to 250 degrees. The second deflection of the first tensioning plate may be between the tensioning portion and trailing portion of the first tensioning plate. An angle of the second deflection of the first tensioning plate may be greater than 180 degrees and less than 270 degrees. For example, the angle may be from 200 degrees to 250 degrees.

[0051] The second deflection of the second tensioning plate may be between the tensioning portion and the trailing portion of the second tensioning plate. An angle of the second deflection of the second tensioning plate may be greater than 90 degrees and less than 180 degrees. For example, the angle may be from 110 degrees to 160 degrees.

[0052] A trailing portion of the hair tensioning path between the trailing portions of the first and second tensioning plates may be parallel to a leading portion of the hair tensioning path between the leading portions of the first and second tensioning plates. In this way, as the apparatus is moved along a tress of hair, the hair enters and leaves the cavity at the same angle.

[0053] The leading portion of the hair tensioning path may be coaxial with the leading opening and / or the trailing portion of the hair tensioning path may be coaxial with the trailing opening. That is, an axis extending generally centrally along the leading / trailing portion may be coaxial with an axis extending centrally through the respective leading / trailing opening.

[0054] The first arm may comprise a first air outlet for emitting air towards the cavity, wherein the first air outlet may be interposed between the trailing edge of the first arm and the tensioner.

[0055] The provision of an air outlet that can emit air onto hair held between the arms can further aid in styling the hair (by drying the hair and / or heating the hair if, for example, the air is heated). By positioning the first air outlet between the trailing edge of the first arm and the tensioner, the air discharged from the first air outlet can be emitted onto tensioned hair (i.e. hair that extends between the tensioner and a user’s scalp so as to be placed under tension). Again, this can facilitate styling.

[0056] Even further, such positioning of the first air outlet can ensure that air can be emitted onto hair that is close to a user’s scalp (i.e. hair roots). That is, by positioning the outlet closer to the trailing edge than the tensioner, the outlet will be closer to the user’s scalp when the apparatus is positioned against the scalp in order to style the hair roots. In this way, air can be emitted onto hair that is close to the scalp. By way of counterexample, if the tensioner were instead positioned between the outlet and the trailing edge, the outlet would need to be further away from the trailing edge to accommodate the tensioner. In this counterexample, when the apparatus is against the user’s scalp (to style hair roots) there will be a length of hair (extending from the scalp and across the tensioner) onto which air cannot be emitted (likewise, the tensioner could disrupt any air directed towards the roots).

[0057] The second arm may comprise a second air outlet for emitting air towards the cavity. The second air outlet may be interposed between the tensioner and the leading edge of the second arm. Thus, the tensioner may be interposed between the first and second air outlets.

[0058] The first air outlet may be adjacent the trailing opening. The first air outlet may be adjacent the trailing edge of the first arm. The second air outlet may be adjacent the leading opening. The second air outlet may be adjacent the leading edge of the second arm.

[0059] The first air outlet may be less than 5mm from the trailing opening (or trailing edge), for example less than 3mm from the trailing opening (or trailing edge), for example around 2mm from the trailing opening (or trailing edge).

[0060] The first and / or second air outlet may comprise one or more apertures (e.g. slots). For example, the first and / or second air outlet may comprise a slot or a plurality of apertures aligned in a row.

[0061] The first and / or second arms may comprise means for flow of air to the first air outlet and second air outlet (when present). The first arm may comprise a first plenum comprising the first air outlet. The second arm may comprise a second plenum comprising the second air outlet.

[0062] The first and / or second plenum may be elongate. The first and / or second plenum may extend for a substantial length (e.g. more than half of the length) of the respective first or second arm. The first and / or second plenum may extend for substantially the entire length of the respective first or second arm.

[0063] The first tensioning plate may define an inner portion of the first plenum. The second tensioning plate may define an inner portion of the second plenum. For the avoidance of doubt, the term “inner” is used to refer to a position towards the interior of the apparatus (i.e. towards the cavity). On the other hand, the term “outer” is used to refer to a position that is towards an exterior of the apparatus (i.e. away from the cavity).

[0064] The first plenum may comprise a first plenum wall defining an outer portion of the first plenum. The first plenum wall may be integrally formed with the first tensioning plate. The second plenum may comprise a second plenum wall defining an outer portion of the second plenum. The second plenum wall may be integrally formed with the second tensioning plate. Such an arrangement may simplify construction of the apparatus.

[0065] The first tensioning plate may comprise an extension for guiding hair to the trailing opening. The extension may further define an inner edge of the first air outlet. The second tensioning plate may comprise an extension for guiding hair into the hair tensioning path. The extension of the second tensioning plate may further define an inner edge of the second air outlet.

[0066] The second arm may comprise a first air inlet for receiving air emitted from the first air outlet. The first air inlet may oppose the first air outlet. The first air inlet may be positioned across the cavity from the first air outlet. The first air inlet may be positioned between the second tensioning plate and the trailing edge of the second arm.

[0067] The first arm may comprise a second air inlet for receiving air emitted from the second air outlet. The second air inlet may oppose the second air outlet. The second air inlet may be positioned across the cavity from the second air outlet. The second air inlet may be positioned between the first tensioning plate and the leading edge of the first arm.

[0068] The first and / or second air inlet may comprise one or more apertures (e.g. slots). For example, the first and / or second air inlet may comprise a slot or a plurality of apertures aligned in a row.

[0069] The second arm may comprise a perforated outer shell (e.g. may comprise one or more perforations) for venting air received at the first air inlet. The first arm may comprise a perforated outer shell (e.g. may comprise one or more perforations) for venting air received at the second air inlet.

[0070] One or both of the first and second arms may comprise an internal chamber defined between the respective outer shell and the respective first or second plenum. The first air inlet and / or the second air inlet may be arranged to direct air into the internal chamber of the respective first or second arm. The hair styling apparatus may be a hair straightener. In some embodiments, the hair styling apparatus may include a heater and the tensioning plates may include heater plates configured to be heated by the heater. In other embodiments, the hair styling apparatus may include a heater and may include heater plates configured to be heated by the heater, where the heater plates may be separate from the tension plates. The hair styling apparatus may or may not include the air inlets and outlets.

[0071] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0072] Figure l is a top view of a hair styling apparatus;

[0073] Figure 2A is a section view of the hair styling apparatus of Figure 1 in an open position;

[0074] Figure 2B is a section view of the hair styling apparatus of Figure 1 in a closed position; and

[0075] Figure 3 is a section view of a variation of the hair styling apparatus of Figure 1.

[0076] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0077] Figure 1 illustrates a hair styling apparatus 10 having a first elongate arm 11 and a second elongate arm 12 extending parallel to one another. The first 11 and second 12 arms define a cavity 13 therebetween for receiving hair in use (such hair would extend in a direction into page when received therein).

[0078] The arms 11, 12 are hingedly connected to one another via (and extend from) a base portion 14 of the apparatus 10. In this way, the arms 11, 12 can be hinged between a closed position (as shown in Figure 1) and an open position. In the open position, the arms 11, 12 are pivoted away from one another so that distal ends 15 of the arms 11, 12 are spaced from one another. In this open position, the size of the cavity 13 is increased to facilitate receipt of hair in the cavity 13. In the closed position, the arms 11, 12 are brought together to decrease the size of the cavity 13 (as may be appreciated, in some arrangements the arms 11, 12 may abut such that there is no cavity when completely closed). In this closed position, hair may be clamped between the first 11 and second arms 12, within the cavity 13.

[0079] As will be discussed further, the apparatus 10 is configured to emit an airflow onto hair received in the cavity 13. In particular, the apparatus 10 is configured to discharge a heated airflow. To supply this airflow, the apparatus 10 includes a heater and a compressor mounted within the base portion 14. Air is drawn through an inlet 16 (in the form of an array of apertures) formed in the base portion 14 by the compressor, and is then heated by the heater. This heated air is subsequently discharged across the cavity 13 so as to pass between the first 11 and second 12 arms, and is then discharged from the apparatus 10 via perforations 17 formed in respective outer shells 18 of the first 11 and second 12 arms.

[0080] In the illustrated embodiment, the apparatus 10 includes a power chord 19 for connecting the apparatus 10 to mains power (i.e. to power the heater and compressor). It should be appreciated, however, that in other embodiments, the apparatus 10 may be powered by a battery (e.g. a rechargeable battery).

[0081] Figures 2A and 2B illustrate the first 11 and second 12 arms in the open position (Figure 2A) and the closed position (Figure 2B). As discussed above, in the open position the arms 11, 12 are spaced apart to facilitate receipt of hair 20 into the cavity 13. In the closed position, the first 11 and second 12 arms are brought together so as to clamp the hair 20 in the cavity 13 (note that the hair is not shown in Figure 2B for clarity reasons).

[0082] Each of the arms 11, 12 comprises a leading edge 21 and a trailing edge 22. As may be appreciated, in normal use of apparatus 10, the arms 11, 12 will be moved along a tress of hair such that successive sections of the tress of hair pass through the cavity 13. When performing such movement, the leading edges 21 will lead in the movement and the trailing edges 22 will trail. Accordingly, the cavity 13 includes a leading opening 23 defined between the (opposed) leading edges 21, and a trailing opening 24 defined between the (opposed) trailing edges 22.

[0083] The apparatus 10 further includes a tensioner comprising a first tensioning plate 25 on the first arm 11 and a second tensioning plate 26 on the second arm 12. The tensioning plates 25, 26 oppose one another across the cavity 13, and are substantially parallel to one another. In this way, a hair tensioning path 27 is defined between the tensioning plates 25, 26.

[0084] Each tensioning plate 25, 26 includes first 28 and second 29 deflections, which form corresponding deflections in the tensioning path 27. The provision of a hair tensioning path 27 with deflections can increase the tension that can be applied to hair 20 extending along the tensioning path 27.

[0085] Each tensioning plate 25, 26 includes a respective trailing portion 30 proximal the trailing opening 24 (and the trailing edges 22), a respective leading portion 31 proximal the leading opening 23 (and the leading edges 21) and a respective tensioning portion 32 interposed between the trailing 30 and leading portions 31. Each first deflection 28 is between the respective leading 31 and tensioning 32 portions of the respective tensioning plate 25, 26. Each second deflection 29 is between the respective tensioning 32 and trailing 30 portions of the respective tensioning plate 25, 26.

[0086] The angles of the first 28 and second 29 deflections of each tensioning plate 25, 26 are explementary (i.e. they sum to 360 degrees). The first deflection 28 of the first tensioning plate 25 forms an angle of about 120 degrees and the second deflection 29 of the first tensioning plate 25 forms an angle of about 240 degrees. On the other hand, the first deflection of 28 of the second tensioning plate 26 is about 240 degrees and the second deflection 29 of the second tensioning plate 26 is about 120 degrees.

[0087] The explementary nature of the deflections 28, 29 means that the leading 31 and trailing 30 portions of each tensioning plate 25, 26 are substantially parallel to one another. Likewise, leading and trailing portions of the hair tensioning path 27 (formed between the leading 31 and trailing 30 portions of the tensioning plates 25, 26) are parallel to one another. In this way, as the apparatus 10 is moved along a tress of hair 20, the hair 20 enters and leaves the cavity 13 at substantially the same angle.

[0088] As discussed above, the apparatus 10 is configured to emit an airflow onto hair 20 received in the cavity 13. To provide such airflow (see dashed arrows 44 in Figure 2B), the first arm 11 includes a first air outlet 33 and the second arm 12 includes a second air outlet 34. Both outlets 33, 34 are arranged to emit air towards the cavity 13 and onto hair 20 within the cavity 13. The first air outlet 33 is interposed between the trailing edge 22 of the first arm 11 and the first tensioning plate 25. More specifically, the first air outlet 33 is adjacent the trailing edge 22 of the first arm 11 (and thus also the trailing opening 24). As has already been discussed, this allows the first air outlet 33 to direct air onto hair that is close to a user’ s scalp (i.e. hair roots) when the apparatus 10 is positioned against the user’s scalp. This would not be the case, for example, if the tensioner were instead positioned at the trailing edge 22.

[0089] The second air outlet 34 is interposed between the leading edge 21 of the first arm 12 and the second tensioning plate 26 (and is positioned adjacent the leading edge 21 and leading opening 23). In this way, air can be emitted onto hair on both sides of the tensioning plates 25, 26. At least a part of each tensioning plate 25, 26 is positioned so as to be generally equidistant between the leading 23 and trailing 24 openings. In particular, for each tensioning plate 25, 26, the distance between the leading opening 23 and the first 28 deflection is substantially the same as the distance between the trailing opening 24 and the second 29 deflection. In other words, the tensioning portion 32 is generally equidistant between the leading 23 and trailing 24 openings.

[0090] An inner edge of the first air outlet 33 is defined by an extension 39 (referred to herein as a first extension) of the first tensioning plate 25. The first extension 39 is coplanar with (and extends rearwardly from) the trailing portion 30 of the first tensioning plate 25. In this way, the first extension 39 is arranged so as to guide hair to the trailing opening 24.

[0091] Similarly, the second tensioning plate 26 comprises a second extension 40 (defining an edge of the second air outlet 34), which is coplanar with (and extends forward from) the leading portion 31 of the second tensioning plate 26. This second extension 40 is arranged to guide hair to the hair tensioning path 27.

[0092] Air is supplied to the outlets 33, 34 via first 35 and second 36 plenums that respectively extend along each of the first 11 and second 12 arms (i.e. into the page as illustrated in Figures 2A and 2B). The first tensioning plate 25 defines an inner portion of the first plenum

[0093] 35 (i.e. a portion of the first plenum 35 adjacent the cavity 13). Likewise, the second tensioning plate 26 defines an inner portion of the second plenum 36. The first 35 and second

[0094] 36 plenums also include respective first 37 and second 38 curved plenum walls that are integral with the tensioning plates 25, 26 and which define outer portions of the plenums 35, 36. In this way, each plenum 35, 36, has a generally unitary construction (i.e. is formed of a single (e.g. extruded) piece).

[0095] To allow for flow of air out of the cavity 13, the second arm 12 comprises a first air inlet 41 for receiving air emitted from the first air outlet 33. To facilitate this, the first air inlet 41 is arranged so as to be directly opposite the first air outlet 33, across the cavity 13. In this way, air is directed across the cavity 13 from the first air outlet 33 to first air inlet 41 so as to pass through any hair 20 within the cavity 13.

[0096] Such an arrangement can help to minimise disruption of the hair 20 in the process of clamping the hair 20 between the arms 11, 12. This is because as such clamping is performed, the air emitted from the first air outlet 33 can urge the hair 20 against the surfaces on the opposite side of the cavity 13. By holding the hair 20 in this manner, the air emitted from the first air outlet 33 helps to minimise disruption to the hair 20 as the hair 20 is clamped between the arms 11, 12.

[0097] The first arm 11 comprises a second air inlet 42 arranged to receive air from the second air outlet 34. The second air inlet 42 is arranged so as to be directly opposite the second air outlet 34, across the cavity 13 (again, such that airflow is directed across the cavity 13 and through hair 20 within the cavity 13).

[0098] Each arm 11, 12, includes an internal chamber 43 formed between the plenum wall 37, 38 and outer shell 18 of the respective arm 11, 12. Each of the first 41 and second 42 air inlets open to a respective internal chamber 43 such that air received therethrough passes into the internal chamber 43. In this way, the air is able to escape (e.g. diffuse) from the perforations 17 formed in the outer shells 18 of the arms 11, 12.

[0099] Figure 3 illustrates an apparatus 10’ that is a variation of that described above. Features that are the same (or similar) in both variations have been provided with the same reference numerals. Description of these features has not been repeated below, only differences are discussed.

[0100] Apparatus 10’ differs from that previously described in that the tensioner is provided by first 45 and second 46 tensioning elements provided respectively on the first 11 and second 12 arms. The tensioning elements 45, 46 are urged into contact by first 47 and second 48 springs (i.e. which urge the tensioning elements 45, 46 towards one another and across the cavity 13). As should be appreciated, the tensioning elements 45, 46 are thus able to clamp hair (not shown in Figure 3) received in the cavity 13, so that a user can apply tension to the hair. As shown in Figure 3, each tensioning element 45, 46 is substantially equidistant between the leading and trailing openings 23, 24.

[0101] Each tensioning element 45, 46 (and corresponding spring 47, 48) is supported within a (cavity-facing) recess 49 formed by respective first 50 and second 51 internal support structures of the first 11 and second 12 arms. These internal support structures 50, 51 are integrally formed with the first 37 and second 38 plenum walls of the first 11 and second 12 arms.

[0102] The use of tensioning elements 45, 46 (as opposed to a deflected hair tensioning path as in Figures 2A and 2B) means that the cavity 13 follows a linear path between the leading 23 and trailing 24 openings. In this way, in use, hair extends along a generally linear path from the leading 23 opening to the trailing opening 24.

[0103] While the invention has been described in conjunction with the exemplary embodiments described above, many equivalent modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art when given this disclosure. Accordingly, the exemplary embodiments of the invention set forth above are considered to be illustrative and not limiting. Various changes to the described embodiments may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0104] For the avoidance of any doubt, any theoretical explanations provided herein are provided for the purposes of improving the understanding of a reader. The inventors do not wish to be bound by any of these theoretical explanations.

[0105] Any section headings used herein are for organizational purposes only and are not to be construed as limiting the subject matter described.

[0106] Throughout this specification, including the claims which follow, unless the context requires otherwise, the word “comprise” and “include”, and variations such as “comprises”, “comprising”, and “including” will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or step or group of integers or steps but not the exclusion of any other integer or step or group of integers or steps.

[0107] It must be noted that, as used in the specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Ranges may be expressed herein as from “about” one particular value, and / or to “about” another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another embodiment includes from the one particular value and / or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by the use of the antecedent “about,” it will be understood that the particular value forms another embodiment. The term “about” in relation to a numerical value is optional and means for example + / - 10%.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A hair styling apparatus having a first arm and a second arm, the first and second arms defining a cavity therebetween for receiving hair, the cavity having a leading opening defined between opposed leading edges of the first and second arms, and a trailing opening defined between opposed trailing edges of the first and second arms, wherein the first arm comprises a first air outlet for emitting air towards the cavity, the apparatus further comprising a tensioner defining a hair tensioning path for tensioning hair within the cavity, characterised in that the first air outlet is interposed between the trailing edge of the first arm and the tensioner.

2. The hair styling apparatus according to claim 1 wherein at least a part of the tensioner is substantially equidistant from both the leading and trailing openings.

3. The hair styling apparatus according to claim 1 or 2 wherein the tensioner comprises a first tensioning plate on the first arm and a second tensioning plate on the second arm, the first and second tensioning plates opposing and parallel to each other to provide the hair tensioning path therebetween, wherein each tensioning plate comprises a respective first deflection and second deflection such that the hair tensioning path comprises first and second deflections.

4. The hair styling apparatus according to claim 3 wherein each of the first and second tensioning plates comprises a respective trailing portion proximal the trailing opening, a respective leading portion proximal the leading opening and a respective tensioning portion interposed between the respective trailing and leading portions, wherein the first and second deflections are at explementary angles on each of the first and second tensioning plates.

5. The hair styling apparatus according to claim 4 wherein an angle of the first deflection between the leading portion and the tensioning portion of the first tensioning plate is greater than 90 degrees and less than 180 degrees and wherein an angle of the first deflection between the leading portion and the tensioning portion of the second tensioning plate is greater than 180 degrees and less than 270 degrees.

6. The hair styling apparatus according to claim 4 or 5 wherein an angle of the second deflection between the tensioning portion and the trailing portion of the first tensioning plate is greater than 180 degrees and less than 270 degrees and wherein an angle of the second deflection between the tensioning portion and the trailing portion of the second tensioning plate is greater than 90 degrees and less than 180 degrees.

7. The hair styling apparatus according to any one of claims 4 to 6 wherein a trailing portion of the hair tensioning path between the trailing portions of the first and second tensioning plates is parallel to a leading portion of the hair tensioning path between the leading portions of the first and second tensioning plates.

8. The hair styling apparatus according to claim 7 wherein the leading portion of the hair tensioning path is coaxial with the leading opening and / or the trailing portion of the hair tensioning path is coaxial with the trailing opening.

9. The hair styling apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the second arm comprises a second air outlet for emitting air towards the cavity and wherein the second air outlet is interposed between the tensioner and the leading edge of the second arm.

10. The hair styling apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the first air outlet is adjacent the trailing opening and / or the second air outlet is adjacent the leading opening.

11. The hair styling apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the first arm further comprises a first plenum comprising the first air outlet and / or the second arm further comprises a second plenum comprising the second air outlet.

12. The hair styling apparatus according to claim 11 wherein the first tensioning plate defines an inner portion of the first plenum and / or the second tensioning plate defines an inner portion of the second plenum.

13. The hair styling apparatus according to claim 12 wherein the first plenum comprises a first plenum wall defining an outer portion of the first plenum wherein the first plenum wall is integrally formed with the first tensioning plate and / or the second plenum comprises a second plenum wall defining an outer portion of the second plenum wherein the second plenum wall is integrally formed with the second tensioning plate14. The hair styling apparatus according to claim 12 or 13 wherein the first tensioning plate comprises an extension for guiding hair to the trailing opening, wherein the extension further defines an inner edge of the first air outlet, and wherein the second tensioning plate comprises an extension for guiding hair into the hair tensioning path, wherein the extension further defines an inner edge of the second air outlet.

15. The hair styling apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the second arm comprises a first air inlet for receiving air emitted from the first air outlet.

16. The hair styling apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the second arm comprises a perforated outer shell for venting air received at the first air inlet.

17. A hair styling apparatus having a first arm and a second arm, the first and second arms defining a cavity therebetween for receiving hair, the cavity having a leading opening defined between opposed leading edges of the first and second arms, and a trailing opening defined between opposed trailing edges of the first and second arms, and wherein the apparatus further comprises a tensioner defining a hair tensioning path for tensioning hair within the cavity, wherein the tensioner comprises a first tensioning plate on the first arm and a second tensioning plate on the second arm, the first and second tensioning plates opposing and parallel to each other to provide the hair tensioning path therebetween, wherein each tensioning plate comprises a respective first deflection and second deflection such that the hair tensioning path comprises first and second deflections.

18. The hair styling apparatus according to claim 17, wherein at least a part of the tensioner is substantially equidistant between the leading and trailing openings.

19. The hair styling apparatus according to claim 17 or 18, wherein each of the first and second tensioning plates comprises a respective trailing portion proximal the trailing opening, a respective leading portion proximal the leading opening and a respective tensioning portion interposed between the respective trailing and leading portions, wherein the first and second deflections are at explementary angles on each of the first and second tensioning plates.

20. The hair styling apparatus according to claim 19, wherein an angle of the first deflection between the leading portion and the tensioning portion of the first tensioning plate is greater than 90 degrees and less than 180 degrees and wherein an angle of the first deflection between the leading portion and the tensioning portion of the second tensioning plate is greater than 180 degrees and less than 270 degrees.

21. The hair styling apparatus according to claim 19 or claim 20, wherein an angle of the second deflection between the tensioning portion and the trailing portion of the first tensioning plate is greater than 180 degrees and less than 270 degrees and wherein an angle of the second deflection between the tensioning portion and the trailing portion of the second tensioning plate is greater than 90 degrees and less than 180 degrees.

22. The hair styling apparatus according to any one of claims 19 - 21, wherein a trailing portion of the hair tensioning path between the trailing portions of the first and second tension plates is parallel to a leading portion of the hair tensioning path between the leading portions of the first and second tensioning plates.

23. The hair styling apparatus according to claim 22, wherein the leading portion of the hair tensioning path is coaxial with the leading opening and / or the trailing portion of the hair tensioning path is coaxial with the trailing opening.

24. The hair styling apparatus according to any one of claims 19 - 23, wherein the first arm comprises a first air outlet for emitting air towards the cavity and wherein the first air outlet is interposed between the trailing edge of the first arm and the tensioner.

25. The hair styling apparatus according to claim 24, wherein the second arm comprises a second air outlet for emitting air towards the cavity and wherein the second air outlet is interposed between the tensioner and the leading edge of the second arm.

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