Device for treating the hair, in particular for curling and / or straightening, with steam

Abstract

The invention relates to a device (1) for treating the hair, comprising: - at least one steam outlet (78) configured to face or come into contact with the hair; - a vaporisation system (7) in fluid communication with the steam outlet, comprising a vaporisation chamber (71) delimited by two opposite walls (81, 83); - a liquid tank; and - a liquid supply system (74) comprising a fluid outlet that opens into the vaporisation chamber and is configured to supply the vaporisation chamber with liquid from the tank, the vaporisation system (7) further comprising two hydrophobic elements (100, 110), opposite one another in the vaporisation chamber (71), respectively covering at least part of each of the opposite walls (81, 83), the fluid outlet (75) being arranged between the two opposite hydrophobic elements (100, 110).

Description

Hair treatment device, including for curling and / or straightening, using steam

[0001] The present invention relates to a hair treatment device, particularly for hair styling, especially for straightening and / or curling, comprising a steam application

[0002] We know of many types of hair styling tools and accessories that allow us to shape hair, particularly by straightening, curling, or crimping. Straightening irons and curling irons are examples.

[0003] To improve hair treatment, some devices provide for the distribution of steam to a strand of hair or to the entire head of hair. Applications WO2014064660, EP2959793, EP2765884, and EP2449911 describe, for example, steam hair treatment devices comprising a liquid reservoir, in which a jaw includes a vaporization system and a steam distribution system for a strand of hair. A liquid, typically water or a hair cosmetic product, is stored in the reservoir and injected into the vaporization system, which includes a chamber, via a conduit. Under the action of heating means, upon contact with the vaporization chamber, the liquid changes to a vapor state and can reach the distribution system, which includes a plurality of slotted orifices oriented so as to project the steam onto a strand of hair held between the two treatment surfaces.However, a rapid increase in the temperature of the liquid, which may contain minerals, in the vaporization chamber can lead to the gradual buildup of scale or limescale inside or at one end of the pipe, eventually causing a blockage. This phenomenon results in the hair styling device malfunctioning and reducing its lifespan.

[0004] International patent application WO2020 / 127852 describes an apparatus comprising a vaporization chamber and a distribution chamber, the vaporization chamber being supplied with fluid via a tube having an opening along the tube and / or a hydrophobic layer below the point of liquid injection into the vaporization chamber. Such features notably increase the service life of these apparatuses by limiting tube blockage.

[0005] However, the lifespan of the vaporization system remains limited, particularly due to the use of the device in different orientations, which still allows for the formation of limescale at the opening.

[0006] There is therefore a need to further increase the lifespan of the device by limiting scaling of the vaporization system at the liquid supply level, particularly when the device is used with several orientations, while having a simple structure.

[0007] The invention addresses this need by means of a hair treatment device, in particular for hair styling, especially for straightening and / or curling, comprising: - At least one steam outlet configured to come into contact with the hair, - A vaporization system in fluidic communication with the steam outlet comprising a vaporization chamber delimited by at least two opposing walls, - A liquid reservoir, and - A liquid supply system comprising a fluidic outlet opening into the vaporization chamber and configured to supply the vaporization chamber with liquid from the reservoir, the vaporization system further comprising two opposing hydrophobic elements in the vaporization chamber respectively covering at least partially each of the opposing walls, the fluid outlet being disposed between two opposing hydrophobic elements.

[0008] By "fluidic communication", we understand that the passage of fluid between the two is made possible directly or indirectly.

[0009] The term "hydrophobic element" refers to an element having at least one surface layer of a hydrophobic material or coating. Hydrophobic elements may be made of a hydrophobic material, including a sheet or coating of such a material. Alternatively, hydrophobic elements may consist of a sheet of a material that is not necessarily hydrophobic, coated at least on the surface extending into the vaporization chamber with a hydrophobic layer. The hydrophobic material may contain polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE).

[0010] The fact that the vaporization chamber contains two opposing hydrophobic elements prevents vaporization of the liquid at the fluid outlet by repelling the liquid exiting the fluid outlet away from the hydrophobic element with which it comes into contact. This allows scale formation to be diverted to areas further from the liquid inlet, thus delaying scale blockage of the fluid outlet and extending the lifespan of the vaporization system.

[0011] Furthermore, the presence of the two opposing hydrophobic elements allows for the aforementioned advantage when the device is used in either direction.

[0012] Preferably, the device is a hair styling device, specifically for curling or straightening.

[0013] Preferably, the treatment device is elongated along a principal axis. Alternatively, the treatment device is of a different, non-elongated shape.

[0014] Preferably, the treatment device comprises a handpiece with a handle and a head. The handle facilitates gripping the device and allows for the insertion of additional components, including a user interface, a fluid reservoir for vaporization, and optionally, a cosmetic product reservoir. Preferably, the head incorporates the vaporization chamber and the heating element.

[0015] The head of the treatment device can be of any shape in cross-section. Preferably, the head of the treatment device has a substantially polygonal shape in cross-section, in particular a substantially rectangular or square shape, or a substantially oval or circular shape. Other cross-sectional shapes are possible, such as a section with a polygonal contour on one side and a non-polygonal, in particular rounded, for example circular, contour on the other. Preferably, the head of the device is generally flattened in cross-section.

[0016] Preferably, the device, particularly the head of the device, comprises a hair treatment sole configured to come into contact with or be positioned opposite the hair and having a steam outlet. Preferably, this treatment sole has a base having a substantially flat or substantially outwardly convex outer surface. Preferably, this treatment sole has a substantially polygonal contour when viewed from the front, in particular rectangular or square, but may also be circular or oval.

[0017] The liquid reservoir can be integrated into the handpiece, specifically into its handle as previously described. Alternatively, the device has a base connected to the handpiece, particularly its handle, into which the liquid reservoir to be vaporized is integrated. As a further alternative, the device is connected, notably via its handle, to an external liquid supply, such as an external water outlet.

[0018] Preferably, the device is a hair straightening and / or curling device.

[0019] The device may include two jaws arranged opposite each other and articulated between a closed treatment configuration and an open hair engagement configuration between the jaws. At least one of the jaws includes an internal treatment element, in particular defining the treatment plate, comprising an internal treatment surface configured to come into contact with or face a portion of the hair strand in the closed configuration. The internal treatment surface may be a heat treatment surface, the internal treatment element being in particular a heating plate, extending opposite the other jaw.

[0020] At least one of the jaws may contain the vaporization chamber.

[0021] Preferably, the other jaw is devoid of a vapor outlet and vaporization chamber.

[0022] Each jaw can be supported by an arm, the two arms being connected, notably by a joint at one end, to assume the closed or open jaw configuration. Each arm can have a half-handle on the joint side and one of the jaws on the free end side.

[0023] Preferably, the liquid to be vaporized is water, preferably non-demineralized and non-distilled water. Vaporization system

[0024] The vaporization system may include at least one body that at least partially delimits the vaporization chamber and includes at least one of two opposing walls. The vaporization system may further include a lid configured to close an opening in the body, the body including one of the two opposing walls and the lid including the other of the two opposing walls, the body and the lid together at least partially delimiting the vaporization chamber. Alternatively, the vaporization system includes a body that defines both opposing walls.

[0025] The vaporization system may include a distribution chamber in fluidic communication with the vaporization chamber and the vapor outlet(s). Vaporization chamber

[0026] Preferably, the vaporization chamber extends along a main axis, in particular a longitudinal axis, parallel to the main axis of the device.

[0027] Preferably, the vaporization chamber is unique in the device.

[0028] Preferably, the vaporization chamber comprises a first vaporization volume and a second vaporization volume in fluidic communication with the first vaporization volume, with the feed system extending into the first volume. The first and second vaporization volumes may be joined by a passage with a cross-section reduced compared to at least one cross-section of the first vaporization volume. The presence of two vaporization volumes separated by a reduction in cross-section limits the flow of liquid water from the first volume to the second vaporization volume and retains scale particles that might form in the first vaporization volume. The first and second vaporization volumes may be of identical width and longitudinally continuous along the main axis of the vaporization chamber.The passage with a reduced cross-section can be formed by a protruding relief on one of the walls, particularly the upper or lower one.

[0029] The volume of the vaporization chamber can be between 3000 mm 3 and 20000 mm 3 The second vaporization chamber can represent a volume greater than or equal to 5%, preferably greater than or equal to 8%, and even better, greater than or equal to 10% of the total volume of the vaporization chamber. Such a vaporization chamber allows for sufficient vapor to ensure effective hair treatment while maintaining a sufficiently compact and lightweight device.

[0030] Preferably, the two opposite walls are the walls of the vaporization chamber with the largest surface area. One of the two opposite walls may overlap at least partially with the heating structure.

[0031] Preferably, the two opposing walls are located on either side of the smallest transverse dimension of the vaporization chamber at the fluid outlet, specifically the height. This helps limit scale formation on the smallest dimension, which is the most likely to cause blockage of the fluid outlet.

[0032] The two opposite walls can have essentially identical internal surfaces to the vaporization chamber. Hydrophobic elements

[0033] At least one of the two opposing hydrophobic elements, preferably both, may each consist of a coating extending over the corresponding wall, in particular a coating on a part of the body of the vaporization system and a coating on the lid of the vaporization system. At least one of the two opposing hydrophobic elements may be formed by applying a hydrophobic material to the corresponding opposing wall in the manner of a paint or coating.

[0034] Alternatively, at least one of the two hydrophobic elements, preferably the two opposing hydrophobic elements, may consist of an added element in the opposite vaporization chamber or on the corresponding wall. They may consist of a PTFE sheet.

[0035] The hydrophobic element(s) can be fixed to the corresponding wall or not.

[0036] The hydrophobic element or at least one of the hydrophobic elements can be held in position by an immobilization device including in particular a centering element for said hydrophobic element with respect to the fluidic outlet, preferably the centering element includes a centering half-pin formed in the vaporization chamber at the level of the corresponding wall(s), in particular the body wall and the cover, and intended to cooperate with a notch of complementary shape formed in the hydrophobic element;

[0037] The vaporization system may include a connecting element, such as a hydrophobic material, extending between two opposing hydrophobic elements, particularly connecting them. The connecting element may cover, within the vaporization chamber, at least partially a side wall, particularly a side wall extending from one of the longitudinal ends of the vaporization chamber, particularly the body of the vaporization chamber. The side wall may be the one containing a feed opening, such as an opening for a feed duct, as described below. This allows, in the case of one or more coatings, for a substantially continuous hydrophobic layer with few points of scale formation on the side wall containing the feed opening.

[0038] The connecting element can be a single piece with two opposing hydrophobic elements. The two hydrophobic elements and the connecting element can also be formed from a U-shaped hydrophobic material, with the two arms of the U forming the opposing hydrophobic elements and the base of the U forming the connecting element. This allows for easy and effective coverage of the vaporization chamber walls on both sides of the feed with a single sheet of insulation. Furthermore, the connecting element prevents scale buildup upstream or at the fluid outlet.

[0039] At least one of the two opposing hydrophobic elements, preferably the hydrophobic element positioned on the wall against which the heating structure is superimposed, can extend across the entire width of the vaporization chamber. This ensures a hydrophobic surface on the wall of the hottest vaporization chamber closest to the power supply system.

[0040] At least one of the two opposing hydrophobic elements, preferably the hydrophobic element positioned on the wall opposite the one over which the heating structure is superimposed, and in particular covering at least partially the lid, can extend over a reduced width of the vaporization chamber. This allows for a good compromise between hydrophobic properties, which limit limescale formation near the water outlet, and vaporization performance through heat exchange between the heating structure and the interior of the vaporization chamber. Indeed, since the hydrophobic elements cover thermally conductive surfaces of the vaporization chamber, they necessarily limit heat transfer between the heating structure and the vaporization chamber.By reducing the overlap width of one of the surfaces by one of the hydrophobic elements, it is possible to maintain good limescale reduction properties in the vaporization chamber while maintaining very good vaporization performance of the vaporization chamber without having to increase the heating of the heating structure.

[0041] The two opposing hydrophobic elements may differ; for example, one may be narrower than the other, such as the hydrophobic element covering the lid being narrower than the one covering a body wall, as previously suggested. Alternatively, one of the hydrophobic elements may be a coating and the other an added element within the vaporization chamber. As a further alternative, the two opposing hydrophobic elements may have the same surface area on their respective walls, including being identical.

[0042] Alternatively, the hydrophobic element arranged on the wall against which the heating structure is superimposed has a larger surface area than the opposite hydrophobic element.

[0043] Preferably, one or both of the hydrophobic elements are planar, preferably substantially rectangular or triangular. They are preferably parallel to each other. The fluidic outlet can extend equidistant from the two hydrophobic elements.

[0044] At least one of the two opposing hydrophobic elements may have a three-dimensional shape including inclined planes. Alternatively, at least one of the two opposing hydrophobic elements may have a pyramid or truncated pyramid shape.

[0045] The two hydrophobic elements can be fixed to the corresponding wall, notably by additional fixing elements extending over the corresponding wall(s) or by bonding. Alternatively, particularly in the case of a U-shaped sheet, at least one of the two hydrophobic elements, specifically the hydrophobic element extending opposite the lid, can be in the fluidic chamber without being fixed to the corresponding wall, with only the portion of the hydrophobic element facing the body wall being fixed to said wall by a fixing device as described above. Hydrophilic layer

[0046] At least one of the two opposing walls, preferably the wall of the vaporization chamber body, includes a hydrophilic element, in particular at least partially between the wall and the corresponding hydrophobic element.

[0047] The hydrophilic layer(s) can extend over the opposite walls.

[0048] The hydrophilic layer(s) can extend across the entire width of the walls concerned.

[0049] The two opposing walls may comprise hydrophilic elements covered at least partially by their corresponding opposing hydrophobic elements. The opposing hydrophilic layers may comprise woven materials, preferably glass fabric. Power supply system

[0050] Preferably, the feed system includes a feed duct extending into the vaporization chamber through an opening in a side wall of the vaporization chamber, the fluid outlet being formed by the end of the feed duct extending into the vaporization chamber.

[0051] The vaporization chamber may extend along a principal axis, in particular a longitudinal axis, with the supply element, in particular the conduit, extending partially into the vaporization chamber, at least partially along the principal axis. Alternatively, the supply conduit may extend into the vaporization chamber along a longitudinal axis offset laterally from the principal axis, in particular on the side opposite a distribution chamber, in particular a wall separating the vaporization chamber from a distribution chamber.

[0052] Preferably, the feed tube extends into the vaporization chamber for a length that is substantially less than 50%, better less than 30%, better still less than 20%, or better still less than 10%, of the vaporization chamber's length. This length within the vaporization chamber ensures that the tube's end is positioned at the level of the hydrophobic elements, allowing the liquid to fall onto one of them.

[0053] The feeding device, in particular the feeding conduit, may have a free end forming a point of injection of the liquid into the vaporization chamber.

[0054] Additionally or alternatively, the feed unit, particularly the feed tube, may be at least partially open on its side wall from a free end. This lateral opening may be shaped to allow liquid from the reservoir to flow into the vaporization chamber in the event of scale buildup and deposits at the free end of the feed system, particularly the feed tube. This helps to limit blockage of the feed system by allowing liquid to flow into the vaporization chamber through a lateral opening.The lateral opening may include at least one slot extending along an axis substantially parallel to the feeding system, in particular the feeding conduit, preferably at least two slots extending on either side of the feeding system, in particular the feeding conduit, the at least two slots forming a plane extending preferably parallel to the internal surface of the vaporization chamber. The lateral opening may be a cutout in a half-section of the feeding system, in particular the feeding conduit, extending along an axis substantially parallel to the feeding system, in particular the feeding conduit, preferably the feeding element, in particular the feeding conduit, is arranged in the vaporization chamber so that the cutout is on the side opposite the surface of the vaporization chamber heated by the heating structure.

[0055] The supply conduit can be beveled at its free end.

[0056] Alternatively, the feeding system may lack a feed conduit. It may include an opening in a side wall of the vaporization chamber, specifically the body of the vaporization chamber. In this case, the liquid is introduced into the vaporization chamber at this side wall. Preferably, the side wall extends along one longitudinal end of the body.

[0057] A ratio between the height of the vaporization chamber and the inside diameter of the feed duct can be between 0.55 and 0.75. Heated structure

[0058] Preferably, the heating structure consists of one or more heating elements configured to heat, in particular by being in contact with or through a thermal transmission element or layer, in particular a thermal paste, an upper or lower wall delimiting the vaporization chamber, the lower and upper walls of the vaporization chamber constituting the opposite walls covered at least partially by hydrophobic elements.

[0059] The heating element(s) can extend between the vaporization chamber and the inner surface of the jaw supporting it, the latter preferably having an internal heating plate. Thus, the heating element(s) simultaneously heat the internal treatment surface and the vaporization chamber. Alternatively, the heating element(s) are in contact with the wall of the vaporization chamber opposite the internal treatment surface. Alternatively still, the heating structure comprises at least two heating elements on either side of the vaporization chamber.

[0060] The heating structure can be placed on top of the vaporization chamber without extending beyond the vaporization chamber.

[0061] The heating element(s) of the heating structure may include an electrical resistance known as Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) or a ceramic, in particular of the "Metal Ceramic Heaters" (MCH) type.

[0062] Preferably, the heating structure is configured to heat the vaporization chamber so that, during use, particularly during the introduction of the liquid into the vaporization chamber, the temperature in at least one zone of the vaporization chamber is always greater than or equal to the vaporization temperature of the fluid to be vaporized. The heating structure can be configured to heat this zone to a temperature between 100 and 200°C, preferably between 110 and 180°C.

[0063] The heating element(s) can have an electrical power rating of 50W or higher, or even 100W, 200W or 500W. In particular, the heating power of the heating elements is chosen so that, given the flow rate of the incoming liquid and the temperature of the liquid, all the liquid is vaporized continuously in the vaporization chamber as it enters it. Device

[0064] The device may include a single vapor outlet, in particular an elongated one, extending parallel to the main axis of the device and / or the vaporization chamber. Alternatively, the device includes a plurality of vapor outlets extending along at least one row of vapor outlets parallel to the main axis of the device and / or the vaporization chamber.

[0065] The vaporization system may include a steam distribution chamber separate from the vaporization chamber, in fluidic communication with the vaporization chamber and supplying steam to the steam outlet(s), the steam outlet(s) giving directly to the distribution chamber.

[0066] Preferably, the distribution chamber is unique in the device.

[0067] The distribution chamber can extend laterally from the vaporization chamber. The vaporization chamber and the distribution chamber can have parallel extension planes.

[0068] Alternatively, the device may include several parallel distribution chambers in fluidic communication with the vaporization chamber and each supplying steam to at least one steam outlet.

[0069] Preferably, the distribution chamber comprises an elongated hollow body forming a steam distribution rail, the hollow body having a steam inlet, preferably at one of its ends, in fluidic communication with the vaporization chamber, in particular at its end opposite to the supply member.

[0070] The body of the distribution chamber may include a common partition wall with the body of the vaporization chamber. This partition wall of the vaporization chamber may form a side wall of the distribution chamber, the two chambers being connected by an opening in said partition wall.

[0071] The body of the vaporization chamber and / or the distribution chamber may be made of a thermally conductive material, in particular metal. Preferably, the thermally conductive material has a thermal conductivity greater than 10 W / m². -1 K -1 , better than 50 Wm -1 K -1 , even better, greater than 100 Wm -1 K -1 .

[0072] Preferably, the heating structure does not overlap the distribution chamber.

[0073] Preferably, the device, in particular the handpiece, includes a jaw configuration detection element to detect whether the jaws are in the closed or open processing configuration, in particular a proximity sensor or a Hall effect sensor.

[0074] The detection device can be arranged between the two arms at the level of the half-handles.

[0075] The device may include a liquid supply system for the vaporization chamber, such as a pump. The supply system may be configured to supply the vaporization chamber based on its temperature and / or the time elapsed since the device was switched on and / or the jaw configuration. The supply system may also be configured to supply the vaporization chamber only when its temperature exceeds a predefined threshold temperature and / or when the time elapsed since the device was switched on is greater than or equal to a predetermined time, corresponding in particular to the time required to reach a predefined threshold temperature of the vaporization chamber. The temperature of the vaporization chamber may be measured using a sensor located within the chamber or at the interface between the heating structure and the vaporization chamber.

[0076] This temperature-dependent control of water supply helps to limit the risk of applying liquid water instead of steam.

[0077] The vaporization chamber feeding system can be configured to feed the vaporization chamber only when the jaws are closed. The feeding system can be configured to activate only if the jaw configuration detection device detects a closed jaw configuration, or to be blocked if the jaw configuration detection device detects an open jaw configuration.

[0078] Preferably, the feeding system is configured to operate at a constant flow rate at a predetermined rate.

[0079] The device may include a steam control mechanism configured to control the application of steam to the hair. For example, the steam control mechanism may control the flow of water into the vaporization chamber. When the user wishes to apply steam to their hair, they can activate the steam control mechanism, which then controls, for example, a pump connected to the reservoir to deliver the liquid into the vaporization chamber. As explained previously, this supply of liquid to the vaporization chamber may be subject to certain additional conditions, such as those described earlier, including a specific chamber temperature, a certain ignition time, and / or the configuration of the jaws. The control mechanism may be operated by the user via a selector switch, for example, a two- or three-position button.

[0080] The device according to the invention may include a power supply. For example, the power supply is provided by means of accumulators and / or batteries and / or by means of an electrical cable connected to a mains socket or a mains adapter.

[0081] The power supply can, in particular, be used to power the heating structure, either directly or indirectly via a control circuit.

[0082] The vaporization chamber body can be mounted on the device in a removable manner. The same applies to the heating plate if it is located on the same jaw and / or to the heating element. They can be disassembled sequentially or assembled as a single removable unit. This facilitates maintenance of the device. Processing method

[0083] The invention also relates, according to another aspect, to a method of treating hair using a device as described above, comprising the application of steam to the hair through the steam outlet(s).

[0084] Preferably, the total flow rate of vapor exiting the vapor outlet(s) can be substantially constant as long as the vaporization chamber is supplied with liquid.

[0085] Preferably, the process is a hair straightening or curling treatment.

[0086] The characteristics of the device described above apply to the process in combination or individually to one another.

[0087] Preferably, the process includes jaw configuration detection and steam application is dependent on jaw configuration, in particular steam application is activated only when the jaws are in closed configuration.

[0088] The process can be repeated several times for the complete treatment of part or all of the hair.

[0089] The process may involve one or more hair rinsing steps.

[0090] The process may include at least one step of applying a cosmetic product to the strand of hair before or after the use of the device of the invention, in particular a brush, and preferably before.

[0091] The cosmetic product may be a cleansing, coloring, bleaching, conditioning, or hair-styling composition. Preferably, the cosmetic product is a hair-styling composition, specifically a hair-curling, setting, or, preferably, hair-straightening or smoothing composition.

[0092] Cosmetic products usable according to the process of the invention can be liquids, gels, milks or creams in the form of simple (O / W or W / H) or multiple emulsions, or solids.

[0093] The cosmetic product may contain one or more active agents selected from among reducing agents, particularly thiols; oxidizing agents, particularly hydrogen peroxide or persalts such as persulfates; coloring agents, particularly pigments, direct colorants, or oxidation colorants; non-durable shaping agents, particularly styling polymers, preferably anionic, amphoteric, or non-ionic; conditioning agents, particularly silicones; mineral or vegetable oils; vegetable waxes; cationic surfactants or cationic polymers; alkalis; or acids. Even more preferably, the cosmetic product may contain one or more agents selected from among oxidizing agents, reducing agents, or alkalis of the hydroxide type.

[0094] Other features, purposes, and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the detailed description that follows, and with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are given by way of non-limiting examples and on which:

[0095] illustrates an overview of a hair treatment device as described in the present invention,

[0096] represents a perspective view of the body of a vaporization system according to an embodiment of the present invention,

[0097] is a cross-sectional view of the vaporization system shown along a median plane, in use in the absence of scale in the vaporization chamber.

[0098] is a cross-sectional view along a median plane of a variant of a vaporization system, in use in the absence of scale in the vaporization chamber,

[0099] is a perspective view of the vaporization system without the lid.

[0100] represents, in a top view, the vaporization system without the lid, and

[0101] is a box plot of an average lifetime test between a device according to the invention and a device according to international application WO2020 / 127852. Detailed description

[0102] In the following description, identical elements or elements with identical functions are designated by the same reference numeral. For the sake of brevity, they are not described alongside each figure; only the differences between the embodiments are described.

[0103] In the figures, the actual proportions have not always been respected, for the sake of clarity.

[0104] Laillustre an exploded perspective view of a device 1 for processing, in particular for shaping hair, in particular for smoothing, using steam to shape hair.

[0105] Device 1 shown is a hair straightener. However, the invention is not limited to such a device. A person skilled in the art will readily apply the invention to other styling devices, in particular curling or brushing devices.

[0106] In the illustrated example, the device comprises a first arm 2 and a second arm 3 articulated to each other by means of a hinge-type joint 20. Each arm 2 and 3 has a proximal, half-handle-shaped portion containing the joint and a distal portion forming, respectively, a first and second jaw 5 and 6 facing each other. The maximum opening angle (not shown) between the first and second arms is between 5° and 60°, preferably between 10° and 20°, and preferably approximately 15°. The jaws 5 and 6 can assume an open configuration corresponding to the maximum opening angle and a closed treatment configuration. The joint 20 may include an elastic retainer for holding the jaws 5 and 6 in the open position at rest.The user must therefore mechanically bring the jaws together so that they take the closed configuration to process the hair.

[0107] A first non-visible treatment surface is carried by the first jaw 5 and a second treatment surface 4 is carried by the second jaw 6, the first and second surfaces being intended to pinch a strand of hair between them in the closed configuration of the jaws 5 and 6.

[0108] The first and second treatment surfaces 4 are generally complementary. They may have different shapes depending on the intended use of the styling appliance 1 and are preferably interchangeable. Typically, the treatment surfaces are flat for use of the styling appliance 1 as a straightening appliance, or curved (not shown) for use as a curling appliance, or wavy (not shown) for use as a crimping appliance. A curling appliance is described, for example, in document EP0619087. The treatment surfaces may also be textured, i.e., have a plurality of protrusions such as teeth or spikes (not shown).

[0109] The steam treatment device also includes a liquid reservoir, typically a water reservoir (not shown in the figure), or a reservoir containing a cosmetic agent, which may be mounted in one of the jaws, or alternatively be arranged away from the device in a so-called remote base, as envisaged in document EP3025610.

[0110] As illustrated in Figures 2 and 3, the liquid reservoir is in fluid communication with a liquid vaporization system 7 via a supply conduit 74. Advantageously, the liquid reservoir is included in the jaw comprising the liquid vaporization system 7.

[0111] The vaporization system 7 comprises at least one vaporization chamber 71, occupying a continuous volume in which vaporization takes place, i.e., a defined volume without discontinuities. The vaporization chamber 71 may be substantially parallelepiped-shaped, having, for example, a rectangular, square, or trapezoidal cross-section. This provides a good compromise between the compactness and efficiency of the vaporization system.

[0112] The vaporization chamber 71 extends, for example, along a principal axis X parallel to a longitudinal axis L of the device.

[0113] A so-called free end of the supply line 74 forms a fluid outlet 75 in the main vaporization chamber 71. Preferably, the supply line 74 protrudes into the vaporization chamber 71 through an opening 77 in a side wall of the vaporization chamber, and the liquid contained in the reservoir can be injected into the main vaporization chamber 71 at the free end of the line in the vaporization chamber. The supply line 74 is therefore separate from the vaporization chamber 71; that is, they are not the same component. Typically, the liquid contained in the reservoir is water or a cosmetic product.

[0114] In an alternative not shown, the supply conduit 74 does not extend into the vaporization chamber, the liquid, in particular water, being introduced into the vaporization chamber through the opening 77.

[0115] The vaporization system further includes a vapor distribution chamber that is connected to the vaporization chamber 7 and has one or more vapor distribution orifices 78 directed towards a strand of hair. The distribution system 7' may, for example, include a distribution chamber 76 connected to the vaporization chamber 71 by vapor, and in which at least one vapor distribution orifice 78 is located. The distribution chamber 76 may extend laterally to the vaporization system 7, preferably along substantially the entire length of the vaporization system 7. This provides a compromise between the compactness and efficiency of the vaporization and distribution systems 7.

[0116] The vaporization chamber 71 is preferably a compartment heated by a heating structure 8, for example a heating means 8 disposed in contact with the vaporization chamber 71, so that vaporization of the liquid injected into the vaporization chamber 71 can take place independently of the heating of other components of the hairdressing device 1.

[0117] The heating structure 8 can for example be positioned under the vaporization system 7 as can be seen from the exploded view figure.

[0118] The heating structure 8 can be arranged against the largest outer surface of the vaporization system 7, preferably placed opposite the distribution orifices 78, and extended so as to be at least partially pressed against lateral surfaces of the vaporization system 7.

[0119] In general, vaporization is effective in the vaporization system 7 and in the steam distribution system 7'.

[0120] Preferably, the vaporization system 7 has a maximum external volume of 110 x 35 x 12.5 mm. The heating structure 8 is, for example, designed to vaporize water in sequences of 10 seconds continuous and 10 seconds rest with a flow rate of around 1 g / min ± 0.5 g / min.

[0121] The vaporization system 7 may include a body 10, which, along with a lid 12, separates the vaporization chamber 71 and the distribution chamber 76. The body 10 and the lid 12 may be made of a metal, an alloy, or any heat-conducting material. Typically, the body and lid of the vaporization chamber 10 are made of aluminum and may be produced by casting or extrusion.

[0122] The body and the lid can be sealed, for example with a silicone seal.

[0123] The vaporization chamber 71 may include two large walls delimiting its height H, an upper wall 81 formed by the lid 12 and a lower wall 83 formed by the bottom wall of the body 10. It also includes two lateral walls 85 and 87 delimiting the vaporization chamber in width and two proximal and distal walls 89 and 91 forming longitudinal ends of the vaporization chamber 71 and delimiting the vaporization chamber 71 in length.

[0124] Advantageously, a spring blade allows the heating structure 8 to be crushed by the vaporization system 7, in order to guarantee permanent contact and optimal operation.

[0125] The heating structure 8 can typically be an electrical resistance known as a Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) or a ceramic, but more generally any system allowing the vaporization chamber 71 to be heated in accordance with the desired purpose.

[0126] The heating element 8 can be regulated by a thermistor, for example a negative temperature coefficient (NTC) thermistor, functioning as a temperature probe, preferably positioned above the injection point. The thermistor can improve the safety of the hair styling device 1 by blocking liquid injection under specific conditions, for example, depending on the temperature of the heating element 8. Typically, a lower temperature limit is approximately 95°C and an upper temperature limit is 130°C, or alternatively, within a narrower temperature range, a lower temperature limit of 105°C and an upper temperature limit of 120°C, or even 110°C.

[0127] Advantageously, the supply conduit 74 is centered on the main axis X of the vaporization chamber 71. The end of the supply conduit 75, forming the fluid outlet, is positioned approximately at the first third, or better yet, at the first tenth, of the length V of the vaporization chamber 71 along the main axis X. However, it could be otherwise. The conduit 74 could be offset laterally towards the side wall opposite the distribution chamber.

[0128] It is preferable to keep the fluid outlet away from the steam distribution means 7' to limit the risk of ejecting hot water that has not had time to vaporize. Preferably, the supply line 74 has an outer wall at least 1 mm away from the inner wall of the vaporization chamber 71, and the height of the vaporization chamber is greater than 8 mm, in order to limit scale buildup at the free end of the supply line 74 and thus prevent premature blockage.

[0129] The supply line 74 can be made of a material containing, or coated with, a material to which limescale adheres poorly, thus limiting limescale buildup. Typically, the material chosen can be polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE, also known by the registered trademark Teflon®), which has the advantage of excellent non-stick properties while being highly heat-resistant. Preferably, at least one internal wall of the supply line 74 is coated with PTFE, so that the supply line 74 is resistant to high temperatures, particularly those exceeding 300°C, and has an internal wall with a very low coefficient of friction, which limits limescale buildup on the internal wall of the supply line 74.

[0130] The feed duct 74 preferably has a large internal cross-section to prevent premature clogging of its free end, for example. The internal cross-section typically has a diameter greater than 3 mm, preferably greater than 4 mm. To limit heat transfer from the walls of the vaporization chamber 71 to the liquid, the wall of the feed duct 74 may advantageously have a thickness greater than 1 mm. A ring with an internal cross-section of 6 mm and an external cross-section of 7 mm, made of PPS (polyphenylene sulfide), may be added to the feed duct 74 to limit heat transfer to its internal wall.

[0131] Preferably, the ratio between the height H of the vaporization chamber 71 at the level of the conduit 74 and the external cross-section of the supply conduit 74 is between 0.55 and 0.75; typically, the ratio is approximately 0.6 for a height of 4.9 mm and an internal diameter of 3 mm. These dimensions have been optimized to ensure the best possible resistance to scaling while keeping the dimensions of the various components to a minimum.

[0132] Advantageously, the portion forming the free end of the supply conduit 74 can have a specific shape allowing the possible accumulation of scale to be concentrated in a specific area while providing an area where the liquid can continue to enter the vaporization chamber 71 without being hindered by the accumulation of scale.

[0133] For example, the feed line 74 is beveled at its free end, forming the injection point, as illustrated in Figure 1. Alternatively or additionally, the feed line 74 may include an opening extending substantially along the feed line from its free end, forming the injection point. The opening has a shape that allows the liquid from the reservoir to flow into the vaporization chamber 71 even if scale accumulates and deposits at the free end of the feed line 74.

[0134] In one embodiment, the opening of the feed duct 74 is a cutout in a half-section of the feed duct 74, extending along an axis substantially parallel to the feed duct 74. In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 2 to 5, the feed duct 74 is arranged in the vaporization chamber 71 such that the cutout is on the side opposite the wall forming the bottom of the vaporization chamber 71. Typically, in an embodiment where the vaporization chamber 71 is closed by a plate forming a lid 12, this means that the cutout in the feed duct 74 is then oriented towards the plate forming the lid 12.

[0135] In the illustrated example, the lower inner wall 83 and the upper inner wall 81 of the vaporization chamber each have a hydrophobic element 100 and 110 covering them at least partially. The hydrophobic elements 100 and 110 extend along the feed channel 74, specifically its free end 11, on either side. In particular, one of the hydrophobic elements 100 extends between the upper wall 81 and the channel 74, and the other of the hydrophobic elements 110 extends between the lower wall 83 and the channel 74. The hydrophobic elements 100 and 110 limit evaporation below the injection point at the surface closest to the outlet, thus pushing it further into the vaporization chamber 71 and thereby limiting scale buildup as close as possible to the injection point.

[0136] Hydrophobic elements 100 and 110 can be made of any hydrophobic material, including polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE).

[0137] Preferably, the hydrophobic elements 100 and 110 are introduced into the vaporization chamber 71. They can be formed from two separate, attached hydrophobic sheets, as illustrated in the figure. In this case, the two hydrophobic elements 100 and 110 are preferentially fixed on the corresponding walls 81 and 83.

[0138] Alternatively, the two hydrophobic elements 100 and 110 are connected by a joining portion 115, preferably also hydrophobic. The assembly can be a single piece, in particular a single U-shaped sheet, as illustrated in the figure. The joining portion 115 preferably extends over the proximal wall 89, which has the opening 77 and a through hole for the conduit 74. In this case, only one of the two hydrophobic elements 100 and 110, in particular the hydrophobic element 100 extending over the lower wall 83 of the body, needs to be fixed or held to the corresponding wall; securing one element and the joining portion 115 is sufficient in this case. This allows the U-shaped sheet to be assembled before closing the vaporization chamber with the lid. Indeed, such an assembly does not allow the hydrophobic element to be fixed between the conduit and the lid.

[0139] Advantageously, the added element(s) 100 or 110, in particular the hydrophobic element 100 extending over the lower wall 83 of the body, can be held in position in the vaporization chamber 71 by an immobilization device comprising a centering element 710 of the added element with respect to the injection point.

[0140] In the vaporization chamber example 71 illustrated in figures 2 and 3, the centering element 710 includes a centering half-pin 710a formed in the vaporization chamber 71 and intended to cooperate with a notch 9a of complementary shape provided in the added element 100.

[0141] Alternatively, hydrophobic elements 100 and 110 are formed by applying a hydrophobic material to the corresponding walls. Typically, the hydrophobic material can be applied like a paint or coating or sprayed onto the corresponding walls of the vaporization chamber 71.

[0142] The hydrophobic elements 100 and 110 can be substantially identical and cover the corresponding walls 83 and 81 over the entire width K of the vaporization chamber 71. Alternatively, the hydrophobic elements can be different, one being, for example, wider than the other. In particular, the hydrophobic element 110 can extend over the entire width K of the vaporization chamber and the hydrophobic element 100 can extend over a width K' less than that of the vaporization chamber 71 by being centered in the vaporization chamber above the feed duct 74, as illustrated in the figure.

[0143] Preferably, the hydrophobic elements 100 and 110 are planar, preferably substantially rectangular. They are preferably substantially parallel to each other. The fluidic outlet 75 can extend equidistant from the two hydrophobic elements 100 and 110.

[0144] In an alternative not shown, at least one of the two hydrophobic elements 100 and 110 may have a three-dimensional shape including inclined planes or a pyramid or truncated pyramid shape.

[0145] In the illustrated example, the hydrophobic element 110 extending over the lower wall 83 can overlap at least partially with the heating structure extending on the other side of the wall 83.

[0146] The vaporization system 7 may include, between one of the hydrophobic elements 100 or 110 and the corresponding wall, a hydrophilic element 120 extending over a larger surface area of ​​the wall than the corresponding hydrophobic element 100 or 110. This improves vaporization by limiting the risk that some of the liquid will not be vaporized in the vaporization chamber 71.

[0147] Advantageously, but not necessarily, and as illustrated in particular in Figures 2 and 3, the liquid vaporization system 7 may comprise a first vaporization chamber 71 and a second vaporization chamber 72, preferably separated from each other by a wall 121 forming a passage with a reduced cross-section between the two volumes 71 and 72 compared to at least the cross-section of the first volume 71. The first vaporization chamber 71 is then arranged upstream of the second vaporization chamber 72 in the direction of vapor flow. Preferably, the hydrophobic elements 100 and 110 extend into the first volume 71, in particular over the entire surface of the lower and upper walls extending into the first volume 71. The wall 121 can then constitute a barrier to scale buildup towards the second volume 72.

[0148] Preferably, the second volume 72 includes discontinuities or obstacles by the presence of chicanes 73 to create a labyrinth-type path for steam.

[0149] A baffle 73 is defined as any obstacle or barrier placed in the chamber that creates irregular steam flow, such as a zigzag pattern, reducing the steam's velocity in the secondary vaporization chamber 72 and increasing contact with the surfaces of the chamber's walls. This allows any liquid droplets to be vaporized, thus ensuring complete vaporization of the liquid, as the heat exchange surface area is increased by the presence of the baffles 73. The baffles 73 can, for example, be arranged parallel to each other. This allows the steam to flow in a regular pattern, thereby trapping scale evenly in the second vaporization chamber 72.

[0150] Preferably, the first volume 71 is greater than the second volume 72, or at least twice greater, so as to allow rapid vaporization in the first volume, and not to reduce the compactness of the vaporization system 7.

[0151] In this embodiment, the optional distribution chamber 76 can be arranged laterally to the vaporization chamber 71 and the secondary vaporization chamber 72, preferably over substantially the entire length of the vaporization system 7.

[0152] Such an arrangement and the corresponding operation are described in detail in document EP2591698.

[0153] In the examples described above, the supply conduit 74 has an opening with a cutout on half its cross-section. However, the invention is not limited to such a supply conduit. As illustrated in the figure, the supply conduit 74 can be a simple cylindrical conduit without a cutout and with an open end. The opening can be straight, as shown, or beveled.

[0154] The reader will understand that many modifications can be made without materially departing from the new teachings and advantages described here. Therefore, all such modifications are intended to be incorporated within the scope of the hair styling device presented.

[0155] Comparisons between first vaporization systems A1 to A10 and second vaporization systems B1 to B10.

[0156] The first vaporization systems, A1 to A10, correspond to the present invention. A coverless example is shown. They comprise a U-shaped hydrophobic sheet arranged in the vaporization chamber with an upper hydrophobic element 100 narrower than the hydrophobic element 110, the latter extending over substantially the entire surface of the lower wall within the first volume of the vaporization chamber. The feed duct extends into the vaporization chamber for a length of approximately 5 mm and has, at its distal end forming the injection point, a non-beveled opening into the vaporization chamber. The duct has no lateral opening.

[0157] The second vaporization systems, B1 to B10, are as described in connection with patent application WO2020 / 127852. They include a hydrophobic element inserted into the vaporization chamber in the form of a flat sheet that covers only the lower wall of the vaporization chamber. The feed duct is also longer and has a wide lateral opening extending from the upper wall.

[0158] The different vaporization systems A1 to A10 and B1 to B10 were used by injecting hard water through the supply line with an initial flow rate of 0.8 g / min. The flow rate of hard water consumed was measured over time until it decreased below 0.2 g / min. The volume of hard water consumed before reaching this flow rate was determined. The decrease in flow rate is indicative of significant scaling of the vaporization chamber, blocking the supply line. The volumes determined for each vaporization system are shown in the comparative table below. A mean and standard deviation are calculated for the first vaporization systems A1 to A10 and for the second vaporization systems B1 to B10 in the table below and are represented in the box plot.Liters of hard water consumed before the flow rate is less than 0.2g / min Product A N°17.35 L 3.55 L N°210.80 L 3.06 L N°310.35 L 3.53 L N°410.20 L 3.42 L N°510.20 L 2.48 L N°67.65 L 4.55 L N°711.55 L 4.64 L N°810.95 L 3.43 L N°910.95 L 4.01 L N°1012.15 L 3.76 L Average 10.2 L 3.6 L Standard deviation 1.6 L 0.6 L.

[0159] The first vaporization systems exhibited an average water consumption of 10.2 L before the flow rate fell below 0.2 g / min, across 10 vaporization systems. The second vaporization systems exhibited an average water consumption of 3.6 L before the flow rate fell below 0.2 g / min, across 10 vaporization systems. The difference between the two is significant and clearly demonstrates the improved lifespan of the vaporization system of the invention compared to those of the prior art.

[0160] The differences observed between the various early vaporization systems are due in particular to the vagaries of the manufacture of the various early vaporization systems for which the hydrophobic sheet was manufactured and introduced manually.

Claims

Hair treatment device (1), in particular for hair styling, especially for straightening and / or curling, comprising: At least one steam outlet (78) configured to be in contact with or opposite the hair, A vaporization system (7) in fluidic communication with the steam outlet comprising a vaporization chamber (71) delimited by two opposing walls (81, 83), A liquid reservoir, and A liquid supply system (74) comprising a fluidic outlet opening into the vaporization chamber and configured to supply the vaporization chamber with liquid from the reservoir, the vaporization system (7) further comprising two opposing hydrophobic elements (100, 110) in the vaporization chamber (71) covering at least partially each of the opposing walls (81, 83), the fluid outlet (75) being disposed between the two opposing hydrophobic elements (100, 110). Device (1) according to claim 1, in which the vaporization system (7) comprises a body (10) delimiting at least partially the vaporization chamber (71) and a cover (12) configured to close an opening in the body (10), the body comprising at least one of the two opposite walls (81, 83) and the cover (12) comprising the other of the two opposite walls (81, 83), the body (10) and the cover (12) delimiting at least partially the vaporization chamber (71). Device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the two opposite walls (81, 83) are on either side of the smallest transverse dimension of the vaporization chamber at the level of the fluid outlet (75), in particular the height H. Device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a heating structure (8) which allows the liquid contained in the vaporization chamber (71) to be vaporized, the heating structure (8) being superimposed on one of the two opposite walls (81, 83). Device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the opposite walls (81, 83) are the walls with the largest surface area of ​​the vaporization chamber (71), the opposite walls having in particular internal surfaces to the vaporization chamber substantially identical. Device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the feed system comprises a feed conduit (74) extending into the vaporization chamber (71) through an opening (77) in a side wall of the vaporization chamber, the fluid outlet (75) being formed by the end of the feed conduit (74). Device (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the supply conduit (74) extends into the vaporization chamber (71) over a length corresponding substantially to less than 50%, better less than 30%, better still less than 20%, better still less than 10%, of the length of the vaporization chamber. Device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the two opposing hydrophobic elements (100, 110), preferably both opposing hydrophobic elements, consists of a coating extending over the corresponding wall (81, 83), in particular a coating on a part of the body (10) of the vaporization system (7) and a coating on the cover (12) of the vaporization system (7). Device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein at least one of the two opposing hydrophobic elements (100, 110), preferably both opposing hydrophobic elements, is made up of an element added in the vaporization chamber (71) opposite or on the corresponding wall. Device (1) according to the preceding claim, in which the vaporization system (7) comprises a connecting element (115), in particular made of hydrophobic material, extending between the two opposing hydrophobic elements (100, 110) and connecting the two opposing hydrophobic elements (100, 110) together, the connecting element (115) covering, in the vaporization chamber (71), at least partially a side wall, in particular the side wall in which a feed opening extends. Device (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the two hydrophobic elements (100, 110) and the joining element (115) are formed by a hydrophobic material folded into a U, with the two arms of the U forming the two opposite hydrophobic elements (100, 110) and the base of the U forming the joining element (115). Device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the two opposing hydrophobic elements (100, 110), preferably at least the hydrophobic element (110) covering at least partially a part of the body (10), extends over the entire width of the vaporization chamber (71). Device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the two opposing hydrophobic elements (100, 110), preferably at least the hydrophobic element covering the lid (12), extends over a reduced width of the vaporization chamber (71). Device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising two jaws (5, 6) arranged opposite each other and articulated between a closed treatment configuration and an open hair engagement configuration between the jaws (5, 6), at least one of the jaws (5, 6) comprising the vaporization chamber (71). A hair treatment method using a device according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising applying steam to the hair through the steam outlet(s).

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