Haircare attachment

Abstract

A haircare attachment is described having an air inlet for receiving an airflow, and one or more projections for emitting at least a part of the airflow. Each of the projections is actuable between a first configuration and a second configuration. In the first configuration, each of the projections is configured to emit a portion of the airflow in a first airflow direction. In the second configuration, each of the projections is configured to emit the portion of the airflow in a second airflow direction different to the first airflow direction.

Description

[0001] 1 P004372-W001

[0002] HAIRCARE ATTACHMENT

[0003] BACKGROUND

[0004] Haircare appliances may include one or more attachments for achieving different drying or styling results.

[0005] SUMMARY

[0006] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a haircare attachment which comprises an air inlet for receiving an airflow; and one or more projections for emitting at least a part of the airflow, wherein: each of the projections is actuable between a first configuration and a second configuration; in the first configuration, each of the projections is configured to emit a portion of the airflow in a first airflow direction; and in the second configuration, each of the projections is configured to emit the portion of the airflow in a second airflow direction different to the first airflow direction.

[0007] The haircare attachment being actuable between the first configuration and the second configuration may provide a user with improved control over the direction of the airflow. For example, the user may cause actuation of the projections when treating hair so that the airflow direction changes according to that which the user considers desirable at a given time or for a desired result.

[0008] Each of the projections may be actuable upon contact with a head of a user. This may improve the convenience or ease of operation of the haircare attachment, and / or may assist the user in effective utilisation of the haircare attachment. For example, the projections may be in one of the two configurations when the haircare attachment is held at a distance from the head of the user. Upon bringing the projections into contact with the head of the user, the projections may switch to the other of the two configurations. Actuating the projections in this way, namely upon contact with the head of the user, may thus provide a particularly convenient means for changing the direction of the airflow, which in turn may improve the efficacy of treatment. 2 P004372-W001

[0009] Each of the projections may extend in a forward direction and may be actuable by urging at least a part of the projection in a rearward direction. When used to contact the head of a user, the projections may be urged in the rearward direction to actuate the projections. As such, convenience of user operation may be improved. Additionally, the projections may better conform to the shape of the user’s head.

[0010] Each of the projections may have a first length in the first configuration and a second, shorter length in the second configuration. For example, where the projections are actuable by urging at least a part of the projections in the rearward direction, this may cause the projections to have the second, shorter length. Better conformity of the projections with the shape of the user’s head may therefore be achieved.

[0011] Each of the projections may be biased to the first configuration. This may improve ease of use, and may be particularly convenient where the second configuration is intended for selective use, e.g. drying of hair roots, while the first configuration is intended for more general purpose treatment. For example, the projections may be in the first configuration when the haircare attachment is held at a distance from the head of the user. Upon bringing the projections into contact with the head of the user, the projections may be urged against the biasing force to the second configuration. When the haircare attachment is then subsequently removed from the head of the user, the projections return to the first configuration.

[0012] Each of the projections may be biased to the first configuration by a resilient biasing member, such as a spring. By using the biasing member, a desired biasing force may be provided, e.g., by selecting a spring with a particular spring constant. Thus the projections may be biased, for example, in such a way that the projections return more robustly or firmly to the first configuration.

[0013] Each of the projections may be biased to the first configuration by the portion of airflow received by the respective projection. Accordingly, each of the projections may be biased to the first configuration without the need for an additional biasing member, such as a spring. 3 P004372-W001

[0014] Each of the projections may be biased to the first configuration by the resilient biasing member and the portion of airflow received.

[0015] The first airflow direction may have a major component in one of: a forward direction, a rearward direction, or a sideward direction. Equally, the second airflow direction may have a major component in one of: the forward direction, the rearward direction, or the sideward direction.

[0016] The major component of the airflow direction corresponds to that vector component having the greatest magnitude. The airflow emitted by each of the projections may be resolved or broken into an axial component (parallel to the forward-rearward axis) and a radial component (perpendicular to the forward-rearward axis). The major component is then (i) in a forward direction when the axial component is positive and has a magnitude greater than the radial component, (ii) in a rearward direction when the axial component is negative and has a magnitude greater than the radial component, and (iii) in a sideward direction when the magnitude of the radial component is greater than the axial component. The major component of the airflow direction may also be determined by the angle of the airflow direction relative to the forward direction. In particular, the major component of the airflow direction is (i) in a forward direction if the angle is greater than or equal to 0 degrees and is less than 45 degrees, (ii) in a sideward direction if the angle is greater than 45 degrees and less than 135 degrees, and (iii) in a rearward direction if the angle is greater than 135 degrees and less than or equal to 180 degrees.

[0017] One of the first airflow direction and the second airflow direction may have a major component in the forward direction, and the other of the first airflow direction and the second airflow direction may have a major component in the sideward direction or in the rearward direction. By having one of the airflow directions in a predominantly forward direction and the other of the airflow direction in a predominantly sideward or rearward direction, different treatment of the hair may be achieved. For example, when the haircare attachment is spaced from the head of the user, the airflow may be emitted in a predominantly forward direction to deliver rough drying of the hair. When the haircare attachment is brought into contact 4 P004372-W001 with the head, the airflow may be emitted in a sideward or rearward direction to dry the roots or the body of the hair without potentially burning the scalp.

[0018] The first airflow direction may have a major component in the forward direction and the second airflow direction may have a major component in the sideward direction. Alternatively, the first airflow direction may have a major component in the rearward direction and the second airflow direction may have a major component in the forward direction.

[0019] Each of the projections may be configured to emit the portion of the airflow in a plurality of first airflow directions when in the first configuration, and / or to emit the portion of the airflow in a plurality of second airflow directions when in the second configuration. By emitting the portion of the airflow in the plurality of first airflow directions and / or second airflow directions, a more uniform and / or effective treatment of the hair may be achieved.

[0020] Where a given projection is configured to emit the portion of the airflow in a plurality of first airflow directions when in the first configuration, the plurality of first airflow directions may be at the same angle relative to said projection. Likewise, where a given projection is configured to emit the portion of the airflow in a plurality of second airflow directions when in the second configuration, the plurality of second airflow directions may be at the same angle relative to said projection.

[0021] Each of the projections may have at least one first air outlet through which the portion of the airflow is emitted in the first airflow direction. The first air outlet may be located at a tip or end of the projection.

[0022] Each of the projections may have at least one second air outlet through which the portion of the airflow is emitted in the second airflow direction. The second air outlet may be located at a side of the projection.

[0023] Each of the projections may comprise an air inlet through which the portion of the airflow enters the projection, a first flow path along which the portion of the airflow is guided to the 5 P004372-W001 first air outlet, and a second flow path along which the portion of the airflow is guided to the second air outlet. The second flow path may be obstructed when the projection in the first configuration, and the first flow path may be obstructed when the projection is in the second configuration.

[0024] The haircare attachment may comprise a concave wall bounded by a rim. Each of the projections may extend from the concave wall and may have a length that extends beyond the rim. The projections may extend from the concave wall in the forward direction, and may have a length as measured in the forward direction.

[0025] The haircare attachment may comprise a wall having a plurality of air outlets. Each of the projections may extend from the wall. More particularly, each of the projections may extend from the wall in a forward direction. A first part of the airflow may be emitted from the haircare attachment via the air outlets of the wall, and a second part of the airflow may be emitted from the haircare attachment via the projections. The air outlets of the wall may be configured to emit the first part of the airflow in the forward direction.

[0026] The projections may comprise a first set of projections and a second set of projections. The first set of projections may be arranged about the second set of projections, and the first set of projections may be shorter than the second set of projections. The first set of projections may be shorter than the second set of projections as measured in the forward direction. For example, the first set of projections may be shorter than the second set of projections when both sets of projections are in the first configuration, and / or first set of projections may be shorter than the second set of projections when both sets are in the second configuration.

[0027] Each of the projections may comprise a tip portion. The tip portion may define the end of the projection.

[0028] The tip portion may be moveable relative to a body portion between an extended position and a retracted position. For example, the tip portion may be moveable in the forward direction and the rearward direction. 6 P004372-W001

[0029] The tip portion may be in the extended position when the projection is in the first configuration, and the tip portion may be in the retracted position when the projection is in the second configuration.

[0030] The projection may have a greater length when the tip portion is in the extended position and may have a shorter length when the tip portion is in the retracted position, e.g. as may be measured in the forward direction.

[0031] The tip portion may be biased to the extended position, and depressing the tip portion against a head of the user may cause the tip portion to move to the retracted position.

[0032] By depressing the tip portion to actuate the projection towards the retracted position, convenient actuation may be provided and / or user comfort may be improved by the biased tip portions engaging the head of the user.

[0033] The tip portion may comprise at least one air outlet through which the portion of the airflow is emitted from the projection in the first airflow direction and / or the second airflow direction.

[0034] The tip portion may comprise at least one first air outlet through which the portion of the airflow is emitted in the first airflow direction, and may comprise at least one second air outlet through which the portion of the airflow is emitted in the second airflow direction,

[0035] The first air outlet may be located at an end of the tip portion. The end of the tip portion may coincide with the end of the projection.

[0036] The second air outlet may be located at a side of the tip portion.

[0037] The haircare attachment may be a diffuser.

[0038] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a haircare appliance comprising the attachment as described above. The haircare appliance may comprise a main 7 P004372-W001 unit to which the attachment is attached, and the main unit may comprise an airflow generator to generate the airflow.

[0039] The attachment may be releasably attached to the main unit.

[0040] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0041] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a haircare appliance with a haircare attachment in an attached configuration.

[0042] Figure 2 is a perspective view of the haircare appliance with the haircare attachment in a detached configuration.

[0043] Figure 3 is a perspective view of the haircare attachment.

[0044] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a projection of the haircare attachment in a first configuration.

[0045] Figure 5 is a sectional view of the projection in the first configuration.

[0046] Figure 6 is a sectional slice through the projection in the first configuration.

[0047] Figure 7 is a perspective view of the projection in a second configuration.

[0048] Figure 8 is a sectional view of the projection in the second configuration.

[0049] Figure 9 is a sectional slice through the projection in the second configuration.

[0050] Figure 10 is a sectional slice through an alternative projection in a first configuration.

[0051] Figure 11 is a sectional slice through the alternative projection in a second configuration.

[0052] Figure 12 is a perspective view of a further projection in a first configuration.

[0053] Figure 13 is a sectional view of the further projection in the first configuration.

[0054] Figure 14 is a perspective view of the further projection in a second configuration.

[0055] Figure 15 is a sectional view of the further projection in the second configuration.

[0056] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0057] Figures 1 and 2 are perspective views showing a haircare appliance 10 comprising a main unit 12 and a haircare attachment 100. In this example, the attachment 100 is removably attached to the main unit 12. Figure 1 shows the attachment 100 attached to the main unit 12, while Figure 2 shows the attachment 100 detached from the main unit 12. In other examples, the attachment 100 may be irremovably attached to the main unit 12. 8 P004372-W001

[0058] The main unit 12 comprises an airflow generator 16, a heater 18, a control unit 20, an air inlet 22, and an air outlet 24. In use, airflow is drawn into the main unit 12 through the air inlet 22 by the airflow generator 16 and discharged from the main unit 12 into the attachment 100 via the air outlet 24. The airflow generator 16 is housed within the main unit 12 and comprises an impeller driven by an electric motor. The heater 18 is also housed within the main unit 12 to optionally heat the airflow. The control unit 20 comprises electronic circuitry for controlling the haircare appliance 10, e.g., powering on and off the haircare appliance 10.

[0059] Figure 3 is a perspective view of the haircare attachment 100. In this example, the haircare attachment 100 is provided as a diffuser.

[0060] The attachment 100 comprises a body 110 and an outlet arrangement 120.

[0061] The body 110 comprises a cover 112 and a grille 114. The cover 112 is generally frustoconical in shape. An air inlet 116 is formed at a first smaller end of the cover 112, and the grille 114 is attached to a second larger end of the cover 112. The grille 114 comprises a concave wall 117 through which a plurality of air outlets 118 are formed.

[0062] The outlet arrangement 120 comprises a plurality of projections 130 (or prongs) arranged about a central axis 121. Each of the projections 130 extends from the grille 114 in a forward direction parallel to the central axis 121. The outlet arrangement 120 is bounded by a rim 119 of the body 110, and the projections 130 extend axially (i.e., in directions parallel to the central axis 121) beyond the rim 160.

[0063] In the present example, the plurality of projections 130 comprises a first set of projections arranged about a second set of projections. The two sets of projections 130 terminate at substantially the same position along the central axis 121. As such, owing to the concave shape of the grille 114, the first set of projections are shorter than the second set of projections. In other examples, the projections 130 may terminate at different positions along the central axis 121. For example, the lengths of the projections 130 may be such that the 9 P004372-W001 ends of the projections 130 define a concave profile, rather like that of the grille 114, for improved contouring with the head of a user.

[0064] In use, the attachment 100 receives an airflow 102 via the air inlet 116 in the body 110. A first part of the airflow 103 is then emitted from the attachment 100 via the air outlets 118 in the grille 114. A second part of the airflow 104 is emitted from the attachment 100 via the projections 130. In other examples, the grille 114 may be devoid of air outlets and the airflow received at the air inlet 116 may be emitted wholly by the projections 130.

[0065] As described below in more detail, each of the projections 130 is actuable between a first configuration and a second configuration. In each of the configurations, the projection 130 emits a portion of the airflow 132. In the first configuration, the portion of the airflow 132 is emitted from the projection 130 in a first direction. In the second configuration, the portion of the airflow is emitted from the projection 130 in a second direction different to the first direction.

[0066] Figures 4 to 6 illustrate one of the projections 130 in the first configuration, and Figures 7 to 9 illustrate the projection 130 in the second configuration.

[0067] The projection 130 is elongate and extends along a longitudinal axis 150. In this example, the projection 130 has a generally cylindrical shape, and the longitudinal axis 150 extends parallel to the central axis 121 of the attachment 100.

[0068] In the first configuration (Figures 4 to 6), the projection 130 is configured to emit the portion of the airflow 132 in a first direction. In this example, the first direction is in a forward direction, i.e., in a direction away from the body 110 of the attachment 100. More particularly, the portion of the airflow 132 is emitted along the longitudinal axis 150 of the projection 130. Suitably, the projection 130 includes a first outlet 133 configured to emit the portion of the airflow 132 in the first direction.

[0069] In the second configuration (Figures 7 to 9), the projection 130 is configured to emit the portion of the airflow 132 in a second direction different to that of the first direction. In this 10 P004372-W001 example, the second direction is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 132 of the projection 130. Consequently, the portion of the airflow 132 is emitted in a radial or sideward direction. Suitably, the projection 130 includes a plurality of second outlets 134 configured to emit the flow of air 132 in the second direction. By providing a plurality of second outlets 134, the portion of the airflow 132 is emitted from the projection 130 in a plurality of second directions, each of which is different to the first direction.

[0070] In the present example, the projection 130 has a single first outlet 133 and a plurality of second outlets 134. The first outlet 133 is located at an end or tip of the projection 130, and the second outlets 134 are arranged around the side of the projection 130. In other examples, the projection 130 may comprise more than one first outlet 133 and / or fewer second outlets 134. For example, the projection 130 may comprise a single second outlet such that, when the projection 130 is in the second configuration, the portion of the airflow 132 is emitted from the projection 130 in a single second direction.

[0071] As noted, the projection 130 is actuable between a first configuration and a second configuration. In this example, the projection 130 is mechanically actuated by moving the end or tip of the projection 130 in the rearward direction.

[0072] According to the present example, the projection 130 comprises a body portion 136 and a tip portion 135.

[0073] The body portion 136 is cylindrical in shape and extends from the grille 114 of the attachment 100. The body portion 136 is hollow and comprises an opening at one end, which serves as an air inlet 131 of the projection 130.

[0074] The tip portion 135 comprises a stem 137 and a head 138. The stem 137 is slidably received within the body portion 136. The head 138 is attached to an end of the stem 137 and is positioned outside of the body portion 136.

[0075] The stem 137 is cylindrical in shape and comprises an inner wall surrounded by an outer wall. The two walls define a first flow path 139 and a second flow path 140. The first flow 11 P004372-W001 path 139 is defined by the interior space bounded by the inner wall. The second flow path 140 is defined by the space between the inner and outer walls. The second flow path 140 therefore surrounds the first flow path 139. The first flow path 139 comprises an inlet 141 defined by an opening at an end of the inner wall of the stem 137. The second flow path 140 comprises a plurality of inlets 142, each defined by an opening through the outer wall of the stem 137. In this example, the inlets 142 are spaced evenly around the outer wall of the stem 137.

[0076] The head 138 is generally puck shaped. In this example, the end face of the head 138 is flat. In other examples, the end face may be rounded or dome-shaped. This may help the tip portion 135 penetrate further into the hair of the user during use, which is described below in more detail. The head 138 comprises the first outlet 133 and the plurality of second outlets 134. The first outlet 133 is located on the end face of the head 138, and the second outlets 134 are spaced around a side of the head 137. The first outlet 133 is in fluid communication with the first flow path 139 of the stem 137, and the second outlets 134 are in fluid communication with the second flow path 140.

[0077] Figures 4 to 6 show the projection 130 in the first configuration. In this configuration, the tip portion 135 is in a first, extended position relative to the body portion 136. Part of the stem 137 of the tip portion 135 extends beyond the end of the body portion 136, causing the head 138 to be spaced from the body portion 136. In this first position, the first flow path 139 of the tip portion 135 is in fluid communication with the air inlet 131 of the body portion 136. Additionally, the second flow path 140 is isolated from the air inlet 131. Consequently, air entering the projection 130 via the air inlet 131 is guided along the first air path 139 and emitted from the projection 130 via the first outlet 133.

[0078] Isolation of the second flow path 140 is achieved, in this example, by a radial seal 143 that projects inwardly from the body portion 136. The radial seal 143 contacts the outer wall of the stem 137 at a position upstream of the inlets 142 of the second flow path 140. Consequently, the second flow path 140 is obstructed by the radial seal 143 and air entering the projection 130 via the air inlet 131 is prevented or hampered from entering the second flow path 140. In this example, the radial seal 143 forms an integral part of the body portion 12 P004372-W001

[0079] 136. In other examples, the radial seal 143 may form a separate element that extends between the body portion 136 and the stem 137 of the tip portion 135. The seal 143 is configured to permit sliding movement of the tip portion 135 relative to the body portion 136. When the tip portion 135 is in the first position, the seal 143 need not create a perfect airtight seal between the tip portion 135 and the body portion 136, and some of the air entering the projection 130 may flow along the second flow path 140 without impacting the overall performance of the attachment 100.

[0080] Figures 7 to 9 show the projection 130 in the second configuration. In this configuration, the tip portion 135 is in a second, retracted position relative to the body portion 136. The stem 137 is retracted within the body portion 136 and the head 138 is in contact with the end of the body portion 136. In this second position, the second flow path 140 of the tip portion 135 is in fluid communication with the air inlet 131 of the body portion 136. Additionally, the first flow path 139 is isolated from the air inlet 131. Consequently, air entering the projection 130 via the air inlet 131 is guided along the second air path 140 and emitted from the projection 130 via the second outlets 134.

[0081] Isolation of the second flow path 140 is achieved, in this example, by a bung 144 supported within the body portion 136. When the tip portion 135 is in the second position, the bung 144 closes the inlet 141 of the first flow path 139, forming a seal against the inner wall of the stem 137. Consequently, the first flow path 139 is obstructed by the bung 144 and air entering the projection 130 via the air inlet 131 is prevented or hampered from entering the first flow path 140. In this example, the bung 144 is received within the inner wall of the stem 137 and forms a seal against the inner surface of the inner wall. In other examples, the bung 144 may contact and form a seal against the end face of the inner wall. As with the radial seal 143, the bung 144 is configured to permit sliding movement of the tip portion 135 relative to the body portion 136. When the tip portion 135 is in the second position, the bung 144 need not create a perfect airtight seal between the tip portion 135 and the body portion 136, and some of the air entering the projection 130 may flow along the first flow path 139 without impacting the overall performance of the attachment 100. 13 P004372-W001

[0082] The projection 130 has a first, extended length in the first configuration, and a second, retracted length (which is shorter than the first length) in the second configuration. The projection 130 is biased to the first configuration. In the present example, the projection 130 is biased to the first configuration by the flow of air through the projection 130. In particular, air entering the projection 130 via the air inlet 131 impacts the end of the tip portion 135 (i.e., the end of the stem 137 within the body portion 136) and urges the tip portion 135 forward to the first position. The projection 130 is actuated to the second configuration by urging the tip portion 135 in a rearward direction.

[0083] During use, the attachment 100 may be spaced from the head of the user. In the absence of any external force being applied to the projections 130, each of the projections 130 is biased to the first configuration by the flow of air moving through the attachment 100, as depicted in Figure 3. As a result, air is emitted from each of the projections 130 in a forward direction. By emitting air in a forward direction, effective drying and / or styling of the hair may be achieved. For example, relatively high heat and / or flow settings may be selected on the haircare appliance 1, and the forwardly directed air may deliver good rough drying of the hair. Alternatively, lower heat and / or flow settings may be selected and the attachment 100 may be hovered over the hair in order to set curls in the hair. Similarly, where a hair product (such as a spray, cream, gel or the like) is used to encourage and retain curls, the attachment 100 may be hovered over the hair in order to set or cast the hair product. By having projections 130 that emit air in a forward direction, curls and / or hair products more may be set more quickly and / or efficiently.

[0084] The attachment 100 may be brought into contact with the head of the user. Upon contacting the head, the projections 130 are urged to the second configuration. As a result, air is emitted from the projections 130 in sideward directions. By emitting air in sideward directions, effective drying of the roots or the body of the hair may be achieved. The projections 130 may be brought into contact or close proximity with the scalp of the user, e.g., in order to better dry the roots. By ensuring that the air is emitted from the projections 130 in sideward directions, heated air directed at the scalp may be avoided and thus thermal comfort may be improved. 14 P004372-W001

[0085] Whilst all of the projections 130 of the attachment may be in the first configuration or the second configuration, it is also possible for some of the projections 130 to be in the first configuration and for the remaining projections 130 to be in the second configuration. For example, when the attachment 100 is brought into contact with the head of the user, only those projections 130 that contact the head are urged to the second configuration; those projections 130 that do not contact the head will remain biased to the first configuration.

[0086] In the example described above and illustrated in Figures 4 to 9, each of the projections 130 is biased to the first configuration by the airflow moving through the projection 130. Figures 10 and 11 illustrate an alternative example in which each of the projections 230 are biased to the first configuration by a spring 245.

[0087] The projection 230 of Figures 10 and 11 is largely unchanged from that in Figures 4 to 9, and corresponding elements have been labelled with the same reference numerals. The projection 230 of Figures 10 and 11 differs in two respects. First, the radial seal 143 and the bung 144 of the projection 130 of Figures 4 to 9 have been replaced with o-rings 243, 244. Second, the projection 230 of Figures 10 and 11 comprises a spring 245.

[0088] The first o-ring 243 is seated within an annular groove defined by a pair of walls that project inwardly from and form part of the body portion 136. The second o-ring 244 is seated within an annular groove of a structure supported centrally within the body portion 136.

[0089] The spring 245 is a coil spring having a first end that abuts the body portion 136, and a second end that abuts the tip portion 135. In this example, the spring 245 surrounds the stem 137 of the tip portion 135. The first end of the spring 245 abuts one of the projecting walls of the body portion 136 used to seat the o-ring 243. The second end of the spring 245 abuts the head 138 of the tip portion 135.

[0090] The spring 245 biases the tip portion 135 to the first, extended position relative to the body portion 136. The tip portion 135 is then moved to the second, retracted position by applying a force to the tip portion 135 in a rearward direction. This force acts in opposition to the biasing force of the spring 245, causing the spring 245 to compress. Upon releasing the force, 15 P004372-W001 the tip portion 135 returns to the first, extended position under the biasing force of the spring 245.

[0091] Figure 10 shows the projection 230 in the first configuration, and Figure 11 shows the projection in the second configuration. As with the projection 130 of Figures 4 to 9, when the projection 230 is in the first configuration, air entering the projection 230 via the air inlet 131 is guided along the first air path 139 and emitted from the projection 230 via the first outlet 133. And when the proj ection is in the second configuration, air entering the proj ection 230 via the air inlet 131 is guided along the second air path 140 and emitted from the projection 230 via the second outlets 134. The projection 230 is biased to the first configuration by virtue of the spring 245, and is urged to the second configuration by application of a rearward force to the tip portion 135 of the projection 230, e.g., by bringing the projection 230 into contact with the head of a user. The stiffness or spring constant of the spring 245 may be selected such that the projection 245 does not immediately move to the second configuration upon contact with the head of the user, but instead moves to the second configuration only when the projection 245 is depressed more firmly against the head of the user.

[0092] Employing a spring 245 or other biasing member has the advantage that the projection 230 may be more robustly biased to the first configuration. For example, even in low flow settings, where the flow of air moving through the projection 230 is low, the spring 245 may ensure that the projection 230 nevertheless returns assuredly to the first configuration. Employing a spring 245 or other biasing member may also enable the use of more robust sealing between the tip portion 135 and the body portion 136 of the projection 230. For example, the projection 230 may employ seals 243,244 that generate friction which is too high for the airflow alone to reliably return the projection 230 to the first configuration.

[0093] In the examples described above, each of the projections 130,230 emits a portion of the airflow 132 in a first direction when in the first configuration, and in a second direction when in the second configuration. In the examples described above, the first direction is in a forward direction (i.e., in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis 150 and away from the body 110 of the attachment 100) and the second direction is in a sideward direction (i.e., in 16 P004372-W001 a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 150). In other examples, each of the projections may be configured to emit the portion of the airflow in alternative directions when in the first configuration and / or the second configuration. By way of example, Figures 12 to 15 illustrate a further projection 330, suitable foruse with the attachment 100 ofFigures 1 to 3, that emits the portion of the airflow in different directions to that described above.

[0094] The projection 330 of Figures 12 and 15 differs from the projections 130,230 in several respects. A prominent difference is that the projection 330 is configured to emit airflow in a generally rearward direction when the projection 330 is in the first configuration, and to emit the airflow in a generally forward direction when the projection 330 is in the second configuration. While the airflow directions differ from the projections 130,230 described above, the projection 330 is nevertheless actuable between the first configuration and the second configuration. Again, in this example, the projection 330 is mechanically actuated by moving the end or tip of the projection 330.

[0095] Like the projections 130,230 described above, the projection 330 comprises a tip portion 335 and a body portion 336.

[0096] The tip portion 335 is slidably received within the body portion 336 and comprises a stem 337 and a head 338. The stem 337 is cylindrical in shape, is open at one end and is closed at an opposite end by the head 338. The open end of the stem 337 serves as an air inlet 341 of the tip portion 335. The stem 337 comprises an opening in a side of the stem 337, which serves as an air outlet 334 of the tip portion 335. The head 338 is attached to an end of the stem 337 and, in this example, is rounded or dome-shaped. In other examples, the head 338 may be flat.

[0097] The body portion 336 is cylindrical in shape and comprises an opening at one end, which serves as an air inlet 331 of the projection 330. The opposite end of the body portion 336 is likewise open and receives the tip portion 335. In contrast to the projections 130,230 of Figures 4 to 11, the body portion 336 comprises an opening in a side of the body portion 336 which serves as an outlet 346 of the projection 330. 17 P004372-W001

[0098] As noted, the tip portion 335 is slidably received within the body portion 336. The bulk of the stem 337 is position within the body portion 336, and the head 338 is positioned outside the body portion 336. As with the projections 130,230 of Figures 4 to 11, the tip portion 335 of the projection 330 is moveable relative to the body portion 336 between an extended position (Figures 12 and 13) and a retracted position (Figures 14 and 15). The projection 330 comprises a spring 345 that biases the tip portion 335 to the extended position. In this example, the spring 345 is a coil spring having a first end that abuts the body portion 336 and a second end that abuts the tip portion 335. More particularly, the first end of the spring 345 is seated within an annular recess of the body portion 336, and the second end of the spring 345 abuts an end of the stem 337.

[0099] The stem 337 of the tip portion 335 comprises a protrusion 347 that projects outwardly through a slot 348 in the body portion 337. As the tip portion 335 moves relative to the body portion 336, the protrusion 347 likewise moves or slides within the slot 348 to limit movement of the tip portion 335 between the extended position and the retracted position. The protrusion 347 and slot 348 also prevent rotation of the tip portion 335 relative to the body portion 336.

[0100] Figures 12 to 13 show the projection 330 in the first configuration. In this configuration, the tip portion 335 is in a first, extended position relative to the body portion 336. The outlet of the tip portion 334 and the outlet 346 of the body portion 336 align such that air entering the projection 130 via the air inlet 331 is emitted from the projection 130 via the air outlet 346. The two outlets 334,346 are not perfectly aligned but are instead offset. More particularly, when in the extended position, the outlet 334 of the tip portion 335 is positioned slightly forward of the outlet 346 of the body portion 336. The forward and rearward edges of each of the outlets 334,346 are chambered. In particular, the rearward edge 334b of the outlet 334 of the tip portion 335 and the forward edge 346a of the outlet 346 of the body portion 336 are chamfered in a rearward direction. That is to say that the edges 334b, 346a of the outlets 334,346 are chamfered (or otherwise shaped) to create a channel that is directed in a generally rearward direction. Consequently, although the outlets 334,336 are located at the sides of the tip portion 335 and the body portion 336, the airflow is nevertheless emitted from the projection 330 (via the channel) in a generally rearward direction. In some 18 P004372-W001 examples, the airflow direction may be more rearward than sideward. That is to say that, if the direction of the airflow were resolved into a rearward component and a sideward component, the magnitude of the rearward component may be larger than the sideward component.

[0101] Figures 14 to 15 show the projection 330 in the second configuration. In this configuration, the tip portion 335 is in a second, retracted position relative to the body portion 336. The outlet of the tip portion 334 and the outlet 346 of the body portion 336 align such that air entering the projection 130 via the air inlet 331 is emitted from the projection 130 via the air outlet 346. Again, the two outlets 334,346 are not perfectly aligned but are instead offset. When in the retracted position, the outlet 334 of the tip portion 335 is positioned slightly rearward of the outlet 346 of the body portion 336. As noted above, the forward and rearward edges of each of the outlets 334,346 are chambered. In particular, the forward edge 334a of the outlet 334 of the tip portion 335 and the rearward edge 346b of the outlet 346 of the body portion 336 are chamfered in a forward direction. That is to say that the edges 334a, 346b of the outlets 334,346 are chamfered (or otherwise shaped) to create a channel that is directed in a generally forward direction. Consequently, in spite of the outlets 334,336 being located at the sides of the tip portion 335 and the body portion 336, the airflow is emitted from the projection 330 in a generally forward direction. In some examples, the airflow direction may be more forward than sideward. That is to say, if the direction of the airflow were resolved into a forward component and a sideward component, the forward component may be larger than the sideward component.

[0102] During use, the attachment 100 may be brought into gentle contact with the head of the user such that the projections 330 penetrate the hair. In this position, each of the projections 330 is biased to the first configuration, and air is emitted from the projections 330 in a generally rearward direction. Since the projections 330 penetrate the hair, effective drying of the body of the hair may be achieved. The projections 330 may be brought into close proximity or contact with the scalp of the user, e.g., in order to penetrate more deeply into the hair. By ensuring that the air is emitted from the projections 330 in generally rearward direction, the air may be directed away from the scalp thus improving thermal comfort. 19 P004372-W001

[0103] The attachment 100 may be subsequently depressed against the head of the user. In doing so, the projections 330 are urged to the second configuration, and air is emitted from the projections 330 in a generally forward direction. By emitting air in a forward direction, effective drying of the roots of the hair may be achieved. Although the air is then directed towards the scalp, the time required to dry the roots (in comparison to the body of the hair) may be comparatively short. As a result, full drying of the hair may be achieved whilst improving the overall thermal comfort. Additionally or alternatively, a higher heat setting may be used to dry the body of the hair (first configuration) and a lower heat setting may be used to dry the roots (second configuration). In this way, thermal comfort may be improved without adversely prolonging drying times or adversely affecting styling results.

[0104] In the example described above and illustrated in Figures 12 to 15, the tip portion 335 and the body portion 336 each comprises a single outlet 334,346. As a result, the projection 330 effectively has a single air outlet 346 through which air is emitted from the projection 330. In other examples, the tip portion 335 and the body portion 336 may each comprise multiple outlets, which then align, such that the projection 330 effectively comprises a plurality of air outlets.

[0105] The projection 330 described above comprises a spring 355 for biasing the tip portion 335 to the extended position. However, the tip portion 335 may be biased in other ways. For example, like the example projection 100 of Figures 4 to 9, the spring 355 may be omitted and the tip portion 335 may be biased to the extended position by the airflow moving through the projection 330.

[0106] In each of the examples described above, the projections 130,230,330 are individually actuable between the first configuration and the second configuration. In other examples, some or all of the projections may be collectively actuable. For example, a set of projections may be coupled together in such a way that actuation of one of the projections causes actuation of the other projections.

[0107] In the examples described above, the projections 130,230,330 are actuable from the first configuration to the second configuration upon application of an external force. The 20 P004372-W001 projections 130,230,330 then automatically return to the first configuration upon removal of the external force. In other examples, the projections 130,230,330 may be actuated, individually or collectively, in other ways. For example, the tip portions of the projections 130,230,330 may be coupled to a common support housed within the body 110 of the attachment 100. The support may then be moved (e.g., in a forward and rearward direction) in order to move the tip portions between the first extended positions and the second retracted positions. The support may be moved manually by a user (e.g., by operating a slider, dial or the like) or it may be moved by means of a small electric actuator, controlled by the control unit of the main motor or user rotates are remotely actuable, e.g. collectively or individually. For example, the projections 130,230,330 may be actuable by suitable actuators controlled by the control unit 20 and user operable using a suitable trigger, such as a button on the main unit 12.

[0108] Although the haircare attachment 100 described above is a diffuser, the provision of one or more projections that are actuable between a first configuration (in which airflow is emitted in a first direction) and a second configuration (in which airflow is emitted in a second direction) may be used with other types of haircare attachment. For example, the projections may be used in a haircare attachment that provides a focussed or concentrated airflow when the projections 130,230,330 are in one of the two configurations, and a diffuse airflow when the projections 130,230,330 are in the other of the two configurations.

Claims

21 P004372-W001CLAIMS1. A haircare attachment comprising: an air inlet for receiving an airflow; and one or more projections for emitting at least a part of the airflow, wherein: each of the projections is actuable between a first configuration and a second configuration; in the first configuration, each of the projections is configured to emit a portion of the airflow in a first airflow direction; and in the second configuration, each of the projections is configured to emit the portion of the airflow in a second airflow direction different to the first airflow direction.

2. The haircare attachment according to claim 1, wherein each of the projections is actuable upon contact with a head of a user.

3. The haircare attachment according to claim 1 or 2, wherein each of the projections extends in a forward direction and is actuable by urging at least a part of the projection in a rearward direction.

4. The haircare attachment according to any preceding claim, wherein each of the projections has a first length in the first configuration and a second, shorter length in the second configuration.

5. The haircare attachment according to any preceding claim, wherein each of the projections is biased to the first configuration.

6. The haircare attachment according to any preceding claim, wherein one of the first airflow direction and the second airflow direction has a major component in a forward direction, and the other of the first airflow direction and the second airflow direction has a major component in a sideward direction perpendicular to the forward direction or in a rearward direction.22 P004372-W0017. The haircare attachment according to any preceding claim, wherein (i) the first airflow direction has a major component in a forward direction and the second airflow direction has a major component in a sideward direction perpendicular to the forward direction, or (ii) the first airflow direction has a major component in a rearward direction and the second airflow direction has a major component in a forward direction.

8. The haircare attachment according to any preceding claim, wherein each of the projections is configured to emit the portion of the airflow in a plurality of first airflow directions when in the first configuration, and / or to emit the portion of the airflow in a plurality of second airflow directions when in the second configuration.

9. The haircare attachment according to any preceding claim, wherein each of the projections has at least one first air outlet through which the portion of the airflow is emitted in the first airflow direction, and at least one second air outlet through which the portion of the airflow is emitted in the second airflow direction, wherein optionally the first air outlet is located at an end of the projection, and the second air outlet is located at a side of the projection.

10. The haircare attachment according to claim 9, wherein each of the projections comprises an air inlet through which the portion of the airflow enters the projection, a first flow path along which the portion of the airflow is guided to the first air outlet, and a second flow path along which the portion of the airflow is guided to the second air outlet, wherein the second flow path is obstructed when the projection in the first configuration, and the first flow path is obstructed when the projection is in the second configuration.

11. The haircare attachment according to any preceding claim, wherein the haircare attachment comprises a concave wall bounded by a rim, and each of the projections extends from the concave wall and has a length that extends beyond the rim.

12. The haircare attachment according to any preceding claim, wherein the haircare attachment comprises a wall having a plurality of air outlets, each of the projections extends23 P004372-W001 from the wall, a first part of the airflow is emitted from the haircare attachment via the air outlets, and a second part of the airflow is emitted from the haircare attachment via the projections.

13. The haircare attachment according to any preceding claim, wherein the projections comprise a first set of projections and a second set of projections, the first set of projections is arranged about the second set of projections, and the first set of projections are shorter than the second set of projections.

14. The haircare attachment according to any preceding claim, wherein each of the projections comprises a tip portion moveable relative to a body portion between an extended position and a retracted position, the tip portion is in the extended position when the projection is in the first configuration, and the tip portion is in the retracted position when the projection is in the second configuration.

15. The haircare attachment according to claim 14, wherein the tip portion is biased to the extended position, and depressing the tip portion against a head of the user causes the tip portion to move to the retracted position.

16. The haircare attachment according to claim 14 or 15, wherein the tip portion comprises at least one air outlet through which the portion of the airflow is emitted from the projection in the first airflow direction and / or the second airflow direction.

17. The haircare attachment according to claim 16, wherein the tip portion comprises at least one first air outlet through which the portion of the airflow is emitted in the first airflow direction, and at least one second air outlet through which the portion of the airflow is emitted in the second airflow direction, wherein optionally the first air outlet is located at an end of the tip portion, and the second air outlet is located at a side of the tip portion.

18. The haircare attachment according to any preceding claim, wherein the haircare attachment is a diffuser.24 P004372-W00119. A haircare appliance comprising the haircare attachment according to any preceding claim and a main unit comprising an airflow generator to generate the airflow, wherein the attachment is attached to the main unit, and wherein optionally the attachment is releasably attached to the main unit.

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