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

Abstract

The invention relates to a device for treating hair, in particular for shaping hair, in particular for straightening and / or curling, comprising: at least one fluid outlet configured to face or be in contact with the hair, a supply system for supplying fluid to the at least one fluid outlet, at least one capacitive sensor configured to detect an absence of fluid, in particular liquid, in the supply system at the capacitive sensor, the at least one capacitive sensor being configured to emit a fluid detection information of the fluid in the supply system, and an electronic control unit configured to emit at least one control signal in a fluid-free mode when an absence of fluid is detected from the information emitted by the capacitive sensor.

Description

[0001] Description

[0002] Title: Device for treating hair, in particular for curling and / or straightening, with steam

[0003] Technical field

[0004] The present invention relates to a device for treating hair, in particular for shaping hair, in particular for straightening and / or curling, and the corresponding treatment method.

[0005] Prior art

[0006] Many types of hairdressing appliances or accessories are known that allow hair to be shaped, in particular by straightening, curling or crimping. As an example, mention can be made of straightening or curling irons.

[0007] In order to improve the treatment of the hair, some appliances provide for the distribution of steam to a strand of hair or the hair. Applications W02014064660, EP2959793, EP2765884 and EP2449911 describe, for example, steam hair treatment appliances, in which a jaw comprises a spraying system and a system for distributing steam to a strand of hair. A fluid, typically water or a hair cosmetic product, is stored in a reservoir that supplies a vaporisation chamber, in which the fluid is vaporised under the action of heating means and is distributed to steam outlets. In hair treatment devices implementing fluid emission, in particular in the steam state, it is important to know if the fluid flows suitably in the fluid supply device. This makes it possible, in particular, to detect if the reservoir is empty or if the supply is blocked in order, for example, to act on the device automatically or manually in order to protect the supply system by preventing it from running empty or to reduce the electrical consumption connected to the fluid supply.

[0008] The proposal of eco-responsible, environmentally-friendly solutions, the design and development of which take environmental issues into account, is becoming a major concern to help meet global challenges. It is therefore essential to design products that reduce the quantity of energy used. In this context, it is important to develop hair treatment devices that do not use more energy than is necessary for their proper functioning and the correct hair treatment result. Moreover, this concern for energy saving is also an important factor in the case of hair treatment devices having an internal power supply, in particular by battery, in order to increase the autonomy of the device between two electrical recharges. There is therefore a need to reduce the power consumption of hair treatment devices when it is not necessary.

[0009] There is thus a need to improve hair treatment devices implementing an emission of fluid, in particular steam, to limit their damage by unsuitable use and to reduce the power consumption of the hair treatment device.

[0010] Summary of the invention

[0011] The invention meets this need by providing a device for treating the hair, in particular for shaping the hair, in particular for straightening and / or curling, comprising:

[0012] - At least one fluid outlet configured to face or come into contact with the hair,

[0013] - A supply system for supplying fluid to the at least one fluid outlet,

[0014] - At least one capacitive sensor configured to detect an absence of fluid in the supply system at the capacitive sensor, the at least one capacitive sensor being configured to emit detection information of the fluid in the supply system, and

[0015] - an electronic control unit configured to emit at least one control signal in a fluid-free mode when an absence of fluid at the capacitive sensor is detected from the information emitted by the capacitive sensor.

[0016] By “fluid”, this means a substance in the liquid or gaseous state, equally. The fluid emitted by the fluid outlet(s) and the fluid detected by the sensor can be in the same state of matter or in different states of matter. For example, the fluid emitted can be the fluid in the gaseous state and the fluid detected may be the fluid in the liquid state before its vaporisation. In this case, as will be seen below, the supply system can comprise a system for vaporising the fluid making it possible to change it from the liquid state to the gaseous state.

[0017] By “capacitive sensor”, this means an electronic device capable of detecting a variation in an electric field present in its detection field. The variation of the electric field can be significant of the presence and / or movement close to the sensor of an object or a fluid. In the present case, the capacitive sensor is used to detect the presence and / or movement in the proximity of the sensor of a fluid and to deduce therefrom, detection information of the fluid in the supply system.

[0018] Thus, a hair treatment device allowing the emission of fluid and comprising a simple device for detecting the absence of fluid supply is obtained. Moreover, the presence of the control unit acting on the device, in particular by control in a fluid-free mode, makes it possible to have an operating mode or a stop taking into account the absence of fluid applied to the hair. The detection information emitted by the capacitive sensor is relayed to the control unit which can then emit, according to this information, a control signal for the device. In the case of an absence of fluid detected from said detection information, the control unit emits a control signal of the device in a fluid-free mode specific to the absence of fluid. The fluid-free mode can comprise the stopping of the device or an operation of the device different from the operating mode of the device with fluid emission by the at least one fluid outlet and / or comprise the emission of an alert signal by the device, in particular by a user alert member. The alert signal can be visual, sound or haptic, upon detection of an absence of fluid in the fluid conduit.

[0019] The fluid-free mode can be a mode of shutting down the hair treatment device or a different operating mode of the device, in particular by stopping a part of the supply system only, in particular a fluid flow member and / or a heating element of the vaporisation system, or by reducing the energy consumption, in particular by reducing the temperature of one or more heating elements.

[0020] Supply system

[0021] The supply system can comprise, in particular, a fluid source and in particular a reservoir of fluid in the liquid state, the reservoir being fluidically connected to the at least one fluid outlet.

[0022] The fluid supply system can comprise a vaporisation system, in particular for vaporising water, comprising at least one vaporisation chamber supplied with fluid and a heating element configured to heat the vaporisation chamber to a temperature greater than or equal to the vaporisation temperature of the fluid, in particular water.

[0023] The heating element can be of adjustable temperature. The fluid-free mode can be an operating mode of the device, in which the heating element is at a temperature less than or equal to the vaporisation temperature of the fluid. This makes it possible, in particular, to reduce the electrical consumption in the absence of fluid, without totally stopping the heating. A fluid-free operating mode, in which the heating temperature of the heating element is reduced, is advantageous as, like a preheating mode, it makes it possible to maintain a minimum temperature that allows rapid restarting of the vaporisation when the vaporisation chamber is again supplied with fluid. When fluid is detected again in the supply system, the control unit can control the heating element to return to a fluid mode, in which the heating element is heated to a temperature allowing the fluid, and in particular the liquid, to vaporise again.

[0024] The vaporisation system can be supplied with fluid in a liquid state by a fluid system. The fluid in the liquid state can be contained in a reservoir external to the device or internal to the device, as described above, the fluid system fluidically connecting the reservoir to the vaporisation chamber. In a variant, the vaporisation system is supplied with fluid in the liquid state by another fluid source, in particular by connection to the general water network.

[0025] In a variant, the supply system does not have a vaporisation system. The fluid can be emitted in the liquid state. In the latter case, the supply system can comprise a system for spraying or nebulising the liquid by the at least one fluid outlet, in particular by pressurised spraying at the fluid outlet or by application by a nebulisation nozzle.

[0026] The supply system can comprise a member for circulating, in particular a pump, the fluid in the supply system, in particular in the fluid system.

[0027] The liquid flow member can be configured to be mounted on the reservoir or the fluid system, in particular a fluid conduit of the fluid system.

[0028] The fluid flow member can be a pump. The pump can be any pump, for example an electric or peristaltic pump.

[0029] The liquid circulation device can be mounted on a conduit, in particular a flexible conduit, of the supply system, in particular of the fluid system, in particular on the fluid conduit. In a variant, the fluid flow member is integrated into the fluid system, in particular between two conduits of the fluid system. It can comprise a circulation conduit allowing the passage of the liquid.

[0030] The fluid system can comprise one single conduit connecting the fluid source, such as the reservoir, and the vaporisation system, in particular, the vaporisation chamber.

[0031] In a variant, the fluid system comprises a plurality of conduits between the fluid source, in particular the reservoir, and the vaporisation system, in particular, the vaporisation chamber.

[0032] The fluid system can comprise one or more conduits, one or more fluid connectors, one or more detectors, an element of the fluid flow member, in particular a pump, and / or an element of the detector, in particular a detection conduit, as will be seen below. Preferably, the supply system is configured to operate at a constant flow rate at a predetermined flow rate.

[0033] Capacitive sensor

[0034] The at least one capacitive sensor is preferably configured to detect the presence of the fluid in the liquid state. In the case of the emission of the fluid in the form of steam by the fluid outlet(s), the capacitive sensor is therefore preferably located upstream of the vaporisation system, in particular between the fluid source in the liquid state, in particular the reservoir, and the vaporisation system.

[0035] The at least one capacitive sensor can comprise a signal processing unit configured to receive the measurements of the electric field and deduce therefrom, information on the presence and / or the absence of fluid in the proximity of the capacitive sensor.

[0036] The signal processing unit can be housed in the body of the hair treatment device, in particular at a gripping part.

[0037] The signal processing unit and the electronic control unit can be one same electronic unit of the device.

[0038] In a variant, the signal processing unit can be different from the electronic control unit. It can be associated with the capacitive sensor in a detection module.

[0039] For example, the device can comprise a housing integral with the supply system forming a detection unit and in which the capacitive sensor and the signal processing unit are housed.

[0040] The at least one capacitive sensor can be disposed facing or in contact with a fluid conduit of the supply system, in particular of the fluid system supplying the vaporisation system, to detect the presence or the absence of fluid at its level circulating in said fluid conduit. Such a positioning is advantageous, as it makes it possible to detect the absence of fluid, regardless of the orientation of the treatment device. Indeed, during its use, the treatment device can be handled in all directions, but regardless of its orientation, the fluid conduit will always be filled with fluid in use.

[0041] The capacitive sensor can be arranged on the external wall of the fluid conduit, in particular in contact with the external wall of the fluid conduit, and allow detection through the wall of the conduit. In a variant, the capacitive sensor can be integrated into a detection unit integrated into the supply system, in particular between two conduits and comprising the fluid conduit, in which the fluid can circulate. The at least one capacitive sensor can extend between the fluid source, in particular, the reservoir, and the vaporisation system, in particular, the vaporisation chamber.

[0042] According to an embodiment, the at least one capacitive sensor is disposed upstream of the fluid flow member in the direction of circulation of the fluid, i.e. from the reservoir to the at least one fluid outlet, in particular between the fluid source and the flow member. This makes it possible to detect an absence of fluid upstream of the fluid flow member and to stop the latter before it runs empty.

[0043] According to another embodiment, the at least one capacitive sensor is disposed downstream of the fluid flow member in the direction of circulation of the fluid, i.e. from the fluid flow member to the fluid outlet, in particular between the fluid flow member and the fluid outlet. This makes it possible to detect the absence of fluid in the conduit between the fluid flow member and the at least one fluid outlet. In this case, the at least one capacitive sensor can be arranged between the fluid flow member and the vaporisation chamber.

[0044] The detection fluid conduit can be opaque or transparent.

[0045] In a variant, the capacitive sensor is disposed facing or in contact with a wall of the fluid reservoir. In this case, the capacitive sensor can be configured to detect the presence and / or the absence of fluid throughout the volume of the reservoir. The capacitive sensor can extend over substantially the entire length of the fluid reservoir. It can be configured to detect the presence and / or the absence of fluid in substantially the entire length of the reservoir. This makes it possible, in particular, to detect the presence or the absence of fluid in the reservoir, regardless of the orientation of the latter.

[0046] The capacitive sensor can be configured to detect an average of the variation of the electric field over its entire height. In a variant, it can be configured to take separate measurements of the variation of the electric field at several points along its height. An average of these separate measurements can be taken.

[0047] The capacitive sensor can be configured to detect a filling level of the reservoir in at least one predetermined orientation of the device. In particular, in said orientation of the device, it can detect the variation of the average electric field over its entire height and deduce therefrom, a filling as a function of the detected average variation or measure the variation of the electric field at several points of its height and deduce therefrom, the filling level. The filling level can be defined by identifying the zones where fluid has been detected. The capacitive sensor, in particular the associated processing unit, can be configured to emit information on the filling level of the reservoir.

[0048] The capacitive sensor, in particular the associated processing unit, can be configured to detect a fluid level below a predetermined threshold in at least one orientation of the device, in particular as a function of its positioning on the reservoir. As will be seen below, this can make it possible to anticipate the fact that the reservoir will soon be empty and that a filling is necessary, in order to prevent the device from going into fluid-free mode or to prevent it.

[0049] In a variant, the capacitive sensor is arranged facing or in contact with a wall of the fluid reservoir at a predetermined position in the reservoir, in particular in the proximity of a fluid outlet of the reservoir or as a function of a liquid level in at least one orientation of the device corresponding to a quantity of fluid from which the application of fluid is no longer possible, and the capacitive sensor generates information on the emptiness of the supply system. This makes it possible in particular to detect if the fluid outlet is supplied with fluid from the reservoir. Indeed, according to the orientation of the device, if the reservoir has a fixed volume, which is not preferential, the reservoir cannot be empty without the fluid outlet of the reservoir receiving fluid.

[0050] The treatment device can comprise several capacitive sensors arranged at different positionings. Each capacitive sensor can be such as described above. For example, a first capacitive sensor can be disposed facing or in contact with the fluid conduit such as described above and a second capacitive sensor can be disposed facing and in contact with the reservoir as described above, and in particular, to detect a filling level of the reservoir, or several capacitive sensors can be arranged facing or in contact with a wall of the reservoir at different levels of the reservoir.

[0051] Control unit

[0052] The control unit is preferably configured to control the flow member. It can be configured to control the stopping of the fluid flow member in fluid-free mode. This makes it possible, in particular, to limit the operation of the empty fluid flow member when the reservoir is empty or in force when the supply system is blocked, which could damage it. The control unit can be configured to control the vaporisation system. It can be configured to control the stopping of the vaporisation system in fluid-free mode. In a variant, the control unit can be configured to control a reduced temperature operation of the vaporisation system, in particular of a heating element of said vaporisation system, in particular in a not-off operating range and below the vaporisation temperature of the liquid. In this case, the control unit can also be configured to control the stopping of the fluid flow member in fluid-free mode. This can limit the electrical consumption of the device in the absence of steam emission, while avoiding the need to resume heating of the vaporisation system after filling the reservoir or unblocking the supply system, as the case may be.

[0053] The control unit can be configured to control the emission of a visual, sound and / or haptic alert signal in fluid-free mode. The fluid-free mode can have a different operation of the device and an alert signal. In this way, the device takes a safety and / or economy configuration and the user can immediately identify that the device no longer has any fluid emission and fill the reservoir or unblock the supply system.

[0054] Moreover, the control unit can emit an alert signal when the fluid level in the reservoir is below a predetermined threshold, as described above. In this situation, the alert signal warns the user that they must fill the reservoir with fluid. If the reservoir is filled following the emission of the alert, the lack of fluid in the supply system is anticipated, for example, before the device goes into fluid-free mode.

[0055] The control unit and / or the sensor, in particular the signal processing unit, can take an average of several measurements of the capacitive sensor over time, in particular, a sliding average. This is, in particular, in order to measure the level of fluid in the reservoir. It is thus possible to avoid measurement deviations that can occur when the user moves the device in space, while the reservoir is partially filled.

[0056] Fluid reservoir

[0057] The reservoir can be removably mounted on the device. It can be housed in a housing of the body of the hair treatment device, in particular at a gripping part. This allows it, in particular, to be changed or filled when it is empty. The device can comprise a fluid connection member in the housing, making it possible to fluidically connect the reservoir to the fluid system. For example, the housing can thus comprise an interface for coupling with the reservoir. The capacitive sensor can be arranged in the housing for receiving the reservoir, and can face or be in contact with the reservoir, when the latter is received in the housing. The capacitive sensor can, in this case, be configured to detect the presence or not of the reservoir in the housing. It can thus emit reservoir detection information and the control unit can switch the device to a reservoir-free mode, when a reservoir absence is detected. The reservoir-free mode can be identical to the fluid-free mode or include the fluid-free mode. In particular, the reservoir-free mode can comprise a user alert of the reservoir absence.

[0058] The fluid reservoir can be of variable volume. In particular, it can comprise a piston forming the flow member, as described above. In a variant, it can comprise a flexible membrane, the volume of which decreases when the liquid is sent to the fluid outlet(s). The flexible membrane can be configured to decrease the volume of the reservoir by preserving the remaining fluid against the wall over which the capacitive sensor extends. This makes it possible, in particular, to detect fluid in the reservoir, regardless of the orientation of the device.

[0059] The reservoir can comprise a reservoir filling opening.

[0060] Vaporisation system

[0061] The device can comprise several fluid outlets configured to face or be in contact with the hair during treatment.

[0062] The supply system can comprise a system for distributing fluid to the fluid outlet(s) comprising a fluid distribution chamber, into which the fluid outlet(s) open(s). The fluid distribution chamber can be fluidically connected to the vaporisation chamber.

[0063] The fluid system can open into the vaporisation chamber. The fluid system can extend at least partially into the vaporisation chamber.

[0064] The vaporisation system and the distribution system can form one single housing comprising the vaporisation chamber and the distribution chamber separated from each other by a wall and connected to one another by an opening in the wall.

[0065] Cosmetic application member

[0066] According to a variant, the hair treatment device can comprise at least one zone for applying a cosmetic product, preferably distinct from the fluid outlet zone(s), the application zone comprising a member for applying a cosmetic product.

[0067] In other words, the device can further comprise a member for applying a cosmetic composition to at least one treatment surface. By “shaping composition”, this means a composition for curling, setting, uncurling or straightening the hair.

[0068] The cosmetic compositions comprise, for example, one or more active agents chosen by the reducing agents, and in particular thiols, oxidising agents and in particular hydrogen peroxide or persalts, such as persulfates, colouring agents such as pigments, direct dyes or oxidation colourations, non-sustainable shaping agents such as preferably anionic, amphoteric or non-ionic styling polymers, conditioning agents such as silicones, mineral or vegetable oils, plant waxes, cationic surfactants and cationic polymers, alkaline or acidic agents.

[0069] Device

[0070] The device can comprise a treatment pad onto which the one or more fluid outlets open or extending laterally to the one or more fluid outlets. The treatment pad can be a heating surface. The device can comprise one or more heating elements of the treatment pad. The heating element of the treatment pad can be the heating element of the vaporisation system. In a variant, the heating element(s) of the treatment pad are distinct from that of the vaporisation chamber. It is thus possible to control the heating of the vaporisation chamber and the treatment pad substantially independently. The fluid-free mode can thus comprise a decrease in the temperature of the heating element of the vaporisation chamber, while maintaining the temperature of the treatment pad at a treatment temperature or by having a control of the temperature of the treatment pad, independent of that of the heating element of the vaporisation chamber.

[0071] The device can comprise teeth, in particular arranged along one or more rows of teeth, extending in particular over the treatment pad.

[0072] The hair treatment device can comprise two jaws disposed facing one another and hinged between a closed configuration for treatment and an open configuration for engaging the hair between the jaws, at least one of the jaws comprising the supply system, in particular the vaporisation chamber. Each jaw can be carried by an arm, the two arms being movable against one another between the closed configuration and the open configuration of the jaws.

[0073] At least one of the jaws can comprise an internal treatment member, in particular defining the treatment pad, comprising an internal treatment surface configured to come into contact with or face a part of the strand of hair in a closed configuration. Preferably, each of the jaws comprises a heating treatment pad. In fluid-free mode, the temperature of the treatment pads can be controlled independently of that of the vaporisation chamber or unchanged.

[0074] Preferably, the device, in particular the handpiece, comprises a member for detecting the configuration of the jaws to detect if the jaws are in the closed treatment or open configuration, in particular a proximity sensor or a Hall-effect sensor.

[0075] The detection member can be arranged between the two arms at the half-handles.

[0076] The supply system can be configured to supply the vaporisation chamber with fluid in the liquid state as a function of the temperature of the latter and / or as a function of the time elapsed since the starting of the device and / or as a function of the configuration of the jaws. The supply system can be configured to supply the vaporisation chamber only when the temperature of the chamber is greater than a predefined threshold temperature and / or when the time elapsed since the starting of the device is greater than or equal to a predetermined time corresponding in particular to the temperature rise time, up to a predefined threshold temperature of the vaporisation chamber. The temperature of the vaporisation chamber can be measured using a sensor disposed in it or at the interface between the heating element and the vaporisation chamber.

[0077] This control of the arrival of fluid in the liquid state in the vaporisation chamber as a function of the temperature makes it possible to limit the risk of application of liquid water instead of steam.

[0078] The supply system can be configured to supply the vaporisation chamber, only in the closed configuration of the jaws. The supply system can be configured to be activated, only if the jaw configuration detection member detects a closed jaw configuration or to be blocked if the jaw configuration detection member detects an open jaw configuration.

[0079] The device can comprise a steam control member configured to control the application, or not, of steam to the hair. For example, the steam control member can control the arrival of fluid to be vaporised, such as water, into the vaporisation chamber. When the user wants to apply steam to their hair, they can actuate the steam control member which then controls, for example, a pump connected to the reservoir to bring the fluid into the vaporisation chamber. As explained above, this supply of fluid into the vaporisation chamber can be carried out according to certain additional conditions such as described above, in particular a certain temperature of the chamber, after a certain switching on time, according to the configuration of the jaws and / or according to the detection of fluid present in the fluid system. The control member can be controlled by the user via a selector, for example a two- or three-position button.

[0080] The device can comprise, according to an embodiment, a power supply. For example, the power supply is produced by means of accumulators and / or batteries and / or by means of an electrical cable connected to a mains outlet or to a mains adapter.

[0081] In particular, the power supply can make it possible to supply the heating element, the fluid flow member or also the capacitive sensor directly or indirectly via a control circuit.

[0082] The treatment device can comprise a base and a handpiece connected to the base. The handpiece can comprise both jaws and the articulation that connects them. The reservoir can be disposed in the base. In a variant, the reservoir can be housed in the handpiece, for example, the reservoir can be disposed in a housing provided in the handpiece. For example, the housing can be disposed in at least one jaw of the handpiece. In this configuration, the capacitive sensor can be on the reservoir, or, preferably, in the treatment device facing the reservoir housing.

[0083] Method

[0084] According to a second aspect, the invention relates to a method for treating hair by a hair treatment device, in particular using the hair treatment device such as described above, comprising:

[0085] The supplying of at least one fluid outlet with fluid by a fluid supply system of the device,

[0086] The detection of the fluid in the supply system by a capacitive sensor and the emission of fluid detection information, and

[0087] The emission by a control unit of a control signal in a fluid-free mode of the device, when an absence of fluid at the capacitive sensor in the supply system is detected from the fluid detection information.

[0088] The method can comprise a step of reading the signals transmitted by the capacitive sensor, for example the values of variation of an electric field, and a step of deducing information on the presence of fluid in the fluid system, in particular the reservoir or the fluid conduit. The fluid-free mode can comprise the stopping of a fluid flow member in the fluid conduit or heating a vaporisation chamber in the supply system, and / or reducing the heating temperature of the vaporisation chamber, and / or completely stopping the hair treatment device, and / or emitting an alert signal, for example visual or sound.

[0089] The method can comprise one or more of the features described above in connection with the hair treatment device independently of the device such as defined above and individually or in combination with one another.

[0090] The treatment method can also comprise, in a non-limiting manner, a step of applying a cosmetic composition, such as, for example, a composition for cleaning, dyeing, bleaching, conditioning, repairing or shaping the hair.

[0091] Brief description of the drawings

[0092] [Fig 1] shows an exploded view of a hair treatment device such as described in the present invention.

[0093] [Fig 2] schematically illustrates, in a top view, a fluid supply system with the capacitive sensor of a treatment device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0094] [Fig 3] schematically illustrates, in a top view, a fluid supply system with the capacitive sensor of a treatment device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0095] [Fig 4] schematically illustrates, in a top view, a fluid supply system with the capacitive sensor of a treatment device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0096] [Fig 5] schematically illustrates, in a top view, a supply system for supplying fluid to the vaporisation chamber of the treatment device according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0097] [Fig. 6] schematically illustrates, in a top view, a fluid supply system with the capacitive sensor of a treatment device according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0098] [Fig. 7] schematically illustrates an example of a control loop of the treatment device connected to the absence or the presence of fluid in the supply system of the vaporisation chamber.

[0099] [Fig. 8] schematically illustrates, using a flowchart, a hair treatment method according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0100] Detailed description Below in the description, the identical elements or identical functions have the same reference sign. For the purpose of brevity of the present description, they are not described regarding each of the figures, only the differences between the embodiments being described.

[0101] In the figures, the actual proportions have not always been respected, for clarity.

[0102] Figure 1 illustrates an exploded, perspective view of a device 1 for treating, in particular for shaping hair, in particular for straightening, using steam to shape hair.

[0103] The device 1 illustrated is of the hair straightener type. However, the invention is not limited to such a device. A person skilled in the art will know without difficulty, how to apply the invention to another shaping device, in particular to a curling or brushing device.

[0104] In the example illustrated, the device comprises a first arm 2 and a second arm 3 hinged to one another, by means of a hinge-type articulation 20. The two arms 2 and 3 each comprise a proximal part in the form of a half-handle comprising the articulation and a distal part respectively forming a first and a second jaw 5 and 6 facing one another. The maximum opening angle (not illustrated) between the first and second arms is between 5° and 60°, preferably between 10° and 20°, and more preferably, around equal to 15°. The jaws 5 and 6 can take an open configuration corresponding to the maximum opening angle and a closed configuration for treatment. The articulation 20 can comprise an elastic member for maintaining the jaws 5 and 6 in the open configuration at rest. The user must therefore mechanically bring the jaws closer together, such that they take the closed configuration to treat the hair.

[0105] A treatment pad, which cannot be seen, is carried by the first jaw 5 and a treatment pad 4 is carried by the second jaw 6, the first and second pads 4 being intended to clamp a strand of hair between them in the closed configuration of the jaws 5 and 6. The treatment pad and the second treatment surface 4 are generally complementary surfaces.

[0106] Each treatment pad has an internal treatment surface configured to come into contact with or face a part of the strand of hair in the closed configuration. The internal treatment surface can be a heat treatment surface, the internal treatment surface being, in particular, a heating plate, extending facing the other jaw. They can have different shapes according to the desired use of the styling device 1, and are preferably interchangeable. Typically, the treatment pads are flat for a use of the treatment device 1 as a straightening appliance, or curved (not illustrated) for a use as a curling device or wavy (not illustrated) for a use as a crimping appliance. A curling device is, for example, described in document EP0619087. The treatment surfaces can also be uneven, i.e. have a plurality of protrusions, like for example, teeth or spikes (not illustrated).

[0107] Each treatment pad comprises an internal treatment surface configured to come into contact with or face a part of the strand of hair in the closed configuration. The internal treatment surface can be a heat treatment surface, the internal treatment member being, in particular, a heating plate, extending facing the other jaw.

[0108] The treatment device 1 is configured to distribute steam in the direction of one or more strands of hair which are clamped, in particular, between the treatment pads of the two jaws 5, 6 in the closed configuration.

[0109] As illustrated in figure 1, the treatment device 1 can comprise one or more fluid outlets 40, in particular, steam outlets. The fluid outlets 40 are configured to face or be in contact with the hair. The fluid outlets 40 are, in this case, arranged in the second treatment pad 4, so as to come into contact with the hair.

[0110] The treatment device 1 comprises a supply system 7, which is configured to supply the fluid outlets 40 with fluid and in particular, with steam. To this end, the supply system 7 comprises a fluid reservoir 70, typically a water reservoir (not represented in figure 1), and / or a reservoir containing a cosmetic product, which can be embedded in one of the jaws or, alternatively, be arranged at a distance from the appliance, in a so-called remote base. In a variant, the supply system 7 can comprise a reservoir containing the cosmetic product. This reservoir can be associated with an application member, which is preferably distinct from the fluid outlets 40. The cosmetic product can be a cosmetic composition, for example, a shaping composition for curling, setting, uncurling or straightening.

[0111] The cosmetic compositions comprise, for example, one or more active agents chosen by the reducing agents, and in particular thiols, oxidising agents and in particular hydrogen peroxide or persalts, such as persulfates, colouring agents such as pigments, direct dyes or oxidation colourations, non-sustainable shaping agents such as preferably anionic, amphoteric or non-ionic styling polymers, conditioning agents such as silicones, mineral or vegetable oils, plant waxes, cationic surfactants and cationic polymers, alkaline or acidic agents.

[0112] As illustrated in figures 2 to 6, the fluid reservoir 70 is in fluid communication with a fluid vaporisation system 71 through a fluid outlet 700 of a fluid system. The fluid outlet 700 connects the reservoir to a fluid conduit 72 of the fluid system, as can be seen in figure 3. The fluid conduit 72 can be opaque or transparent.

[0113] The reservoir 70 can be removably mounted on the treatment device 1. It can be housed in a housing of the body of the hair treatment device, in particular at a gripping part. In particular, in the example of figure 1, the reservoir 70 is disposed at the second arm 3. The treatment device 1 can comprise a fluid connection member in the housing for fluidically connecting the reservoir 70 to the fluid system. For example, the housing can thus comprise an interface for coupling with the reservoir 70. The reservoir 70 can comprise an opening for filling the reservoir.

[0114] The vaporisation system 71 comprises at least one vaporisation chamber 73 occupying a continuous volume in which vaporisation occurs, i.e. a volume defined without discontinuity. The vaporisation chamber 73 can be substantially parallelepiped, for example having a rectangular, square or trapezoidal cross-section. This makes it possible to provide a good compromise between the compactness and the effectiveness of the vaporisation system 71. The vaporisation system 71 of the intake system 7 is in fluid communication with the fluid outlet(s) 40, in particular at the vaporisation chamber 73. The latter is configured to produce steam and transmit it to the fluid outlets 40.

[0115] The vaporisation chamber 73 is, in this case, parallelepiped-shaped, and comprises two vaporisation volumes 730, 731 separated by a wall forming a passage of reduced dimensions between the two vaporisation volumes. The first vaporisation chamber 730 is thus arranged upstream of the second vaporisation chamber 731 in the direction of passage of the steam.

[0116] The vaporisation chamber 73 can comprise an upper wall formed by the cover 12 and a lower wall formed by the bottom wall of the body 10. The body 10 and the cover 12 can be constituted of a metal, an alloy, or any heat-conducting material. The vaporisation chamber also comprises two side walls delimiting the width of the vaporisation chamber and two proximal and distal walls forming longitudinal ends of the vaporisation chamber 73 and delimiting the length of the vaporisation chamber 73. Preferably, the two upper and lower walls are the walls of the vaporisation chamber of larger surface area. As illustrated in figure 1, the vaporisation chamber 73 extends, for example, along a main axis X parallel to a longitudinal axis L of the device. The vaporisation system 71 comprises a heating element 8 that heats the vaporisation chamber 73. To do this, the heating element is coupled to at least one wall of the vaporisation chamber 73. In the example of figure 2, the heating element is coupled to the lower wall 10 of the vaporisation chamber 73. In particular, the heating element 8 can extend against the lower wall 10 at least at the second vaporisation volume 731. The heating element 8 can be disposed outside the vaporisation chamber 73, as the lower wall 10 is advantageously a heat conductor.

[0117] The heating element 8 can typically be a so-called Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) electrical resistor or a ceramic, but more generally, any system making it possible to heat the vaporisation chamber 73 according to the desired aim.

[0118] The heating element 8 can be regulated by a thermistor, for example with a negative temperature coefficient or NTC, operating as a temperature probe, preferably arranged above the injection point. The thermistor can allow a better safety of the hairdressing appliance 1 by blocking the injection of liquid under particular conditions, for example according to the temperature of the heating element 8. The thermistor can also regulate the heating temperature of the heating element 8 or stop the heating when an absence of liquid in the intake system 7 is detected. It is advantageous to lower the heating temperature of the heating element 8 in the absence of fluid, as this makes it possible to maintain a minimum temperature in the vaporisation chamber 73. The minimum temperature can, for example, be 90°C. When the supply system 7 again comprises liquid, the vaporisation can thus rapidly restart.

[0119] The vaporisation chamber 73 can be in fluid communication with a distribution chamber 74 that supplies the steam outlets 40. As illustrated in figure 1, the vaporisation chamber 73 and the distribution chamber 74 can form one single housing. The steam produced in the vaporisation chamber 73 thus flows towards the fluid outlets 40, where it meets the hair of the user. It is preferable to move the fluid outlet of the fluid conduit 72 away from the steam distribution means 74, in order to limit the risk of ejecting hot water, that would not have had time to vaporise. The fluid conduit 72 can be centred on the main axis X of the vaporisation chamber 73 or offset laterally with respect to this same axis.

[0120] Advantageously, the portion forming the free end 720 of the fluid conduit 72 can be bevelled. Such a specific shape makes it possible to concentrate the possible accumulation of scale in a specific zone, while providing a zone where the liquid can continue to enter the vaporisation chamber 73 without being impeded by the accumulation of scale.

[0121] The vaporisation system 71 can thus be supplied with fluid in the liquid state by the fluid system fluidically connecting a fluid source, such as the reservoir 70 to the vaporisation chamber 73.

[0122] In a variant, the supply system 7 can be devoid of a vaporisation system. The fluid can be emitted in the liquid state. In the latter case, the supply system 7 can comprise a system for spraying or nebulising the liquid by the at least one fluid outlet 40, in particular by pressurised spraying at the fluid outlet or by application by a nebulisation nozzle.

[0123] As illustrated in figures 2 to 6, the supply system 7 can comprise a fluid flow member 75, in particular a pump, for the fluid in the supply system 7 and in particular, in the fluid system. The pump can, for example, be of the peristaltic or electric type. As illustrated, in particular, in figure 2, the fluid flow member 75 can be disposed at the fluid connection between the fluid conduit 72 and the reservoir 70. However, as illustrated in figure 3, the fluid flow member 75 can also be disposed on a cross-section of the fluid conduit 72 between the reservoir 70 and the vaporisation chamber 73. In this case, the fluid conduit 72 can be a flexible conduit. The fluid flow member 75 leads to a movement of the fluid, in the liquid state, contained in the reservoir 70 in the direction of the vaporisation chamber 73. The direction of circulation 750 of the liquid contained in the reservoir 70 is illustrated in figures 2 to 6 by an arrow that extends from the reservoir 70 to the inside of the vaporisation chamber 73. The fluid flow member 75 is controlled by the electronic control unit 100 of the treatment device 1.

[0124] In a variation, the fluid flow member 75 can be integrated into the fluid system, in particular between two conduits of the fluid system. It can comprise a circulation conduit allowing the passage of the liquid.

[0125] The fluid system can comprise one single conduit connecting the fluid source, in particular the reservoir 70, and the vaporisation system 71, in particular the vaporisation chamber 73. In a variant, the fluid system comprises a plurality of conduits between the fluid source, in particular the reservoir 70, and the vaporisation system 71, in particular the vaporisation chamber 73. The fluid system can comprise one or more conduits, one or more fluid connectors, one or more detectors, an element of the fluid flow member 75, in particular a pump, and / or an element of the detector.

[0126] Preferably, the supply system is configured to operate at a constant flow rate at a predetermined flow rate.

[0127] For example, the control unit 100 can control the supply of the vaporisation chamber 73 according to different parameters: as a function of the temperature of the heating element 8, as a function of the time elapsed since the device was started, as a function of the configuration of the jaws.

[0128] The fluid flow member 75 can thus be controlled to supply the vaporisation chamber 73, only when the temperature of the chamber is greater than a predefined threshold temperature and / or when the time elapsed since the start of the device is greater than or equal to a predetermined time corresponding in particular to the temperature rise time, up to a predefined threshold temperature of the vaporisation chamber and, in particular, of the heating element 8. Typically, the temperature of the vaporisation chamber 73 can be measured using a sensor disposed therein or at the interface between the heating element 8 and the vaporisation chamber 73.

[0129] The device can comprise a steam control member configured to control the application, or not, of steam to the hair. For example, the steam control member can control the arrival of fluid to be vaporised, such as water, into the vaporisation chamber. When the user wants to apply steam to their hair, they can actuate the steam control member which thus controls, for example, a pump such as the fluid flow member 75 connected to the reservoir 70 to bring the fluid into the vaporisation chamber 73. As explained above, this supply of fluid into the vaporisation chamber 73 can be carried out according to certain additional conditions such as described above, in particular a certain temperature of the chamber, after a certain switching on time, and / or according to the configuration of the jaws and / or according to the detection of fluid present in the fluid system. The control member can be controlled by the user via a selector, for example, a two- or three-position button. The selector can be disposed on an arm, for example, at the human-machine interface 101 which can be seen in figure 1.

[0130] Furthermore, when an absence of fluid is detected in the supply system 7, the control unit 100 can control the stopping of the fluid flow member 75. The absence of fluid in the supply system 7 can be determined using at least one capacitive sensor 9, in particular a commercially-known capacitive sensor, configured to detect an absence of fluid and, in particular, of liquid with regard to its capacitive measurement unit(s), and in particular its electrodes. Typically, the capacitive sensor can comprise two electrodes. The presence or the absence of water can be evaluated as a function of changes of capacitive value between the two electrodes connected to the presence or the movement of liquid in the supply system. The capacitive sensor 9 can also comprise a signal processing unit which receives the measurements of the electrodes, in particular of the electric field which they measure, and which is configured to deduce therefrom, information on the presence and / or the absence of liquid with regard to the capacitive sensor.

[0131] The signal processing unit can be housed in the body of the hair treatment device, in particular at a gripping part. The signal processing unit and the electronic control unit 100 can be one same electronic unit of the treatment device 1.

[0132] In a variant, the signal processing unit can be different from the electronic control unit. It can be associated with the capacitive sensor 9 in a detection module. For example, the treatment device 1 can comprise a housing integral with the supply system 7 forming a detection unit, and in which the capacitive sensor 9 and the signal processing unit are housed.

[0133] As illustrated in figure 7, the capacitive sensor 9 is electronically and / or electrically connected to the control unit 100. Through this connection, the capacitive sensor 9 transmits to the control unit 100, information 90 on the absence and / or the presence of liquid facing its electrodes.

[0134] The capacitive sensor 9 can thus be arranged at several positions of the supply system 7 and, in particular, of the fluid system which supplies the vaporisation system 71. In the example of figures 2 and 3, the capacitive sensor 9 is advantageously disposed in contact with or facing a portion of the fluid conduit 72. The capacitive sensor can be arranged on the external wall of the fluid conduit, in particular in contact with the external wall of the fluid conduit, and allow detection through the wall of the conduit. The integration of the sensor 9 on the fluid conduit 72 makes it possible to detect the presence and / or the absence of supply in the cross-section of the fluid conduit, and this, regardless of the spatial orientation of the treatment device 1.

[0135] The capacitive sensor 9 can be placed at several positions on the fluid conduit 72, such as illustrated in figures 2 and 3. However, the capacitive sensor 9 is preferably disposed on the portion of the fluid conduit 72 that is located outside the vaporisation chamber 73. More specifically, the sensor 9 can be placed on the portion of the fluid conduit 72 that is located between the reservoir 70 and the vaporisation chamber 73. On this portion of the conduit 72, the sensor 9 can be positioned at the first half of the conduit on the side of the reservoir 70, as illustrated in figure 2, downstream of the fluid flow member 75. According to an arrangement illustrated in figure 3, the fluid flow member 75 can be disposed on the fluid conduit 72, while the capacitive sensor 9 is placed on a conduit portion 72 which is interposed between the reservoir 70 and the fluid flow member 75. This arrangement makes it possible to detect, in a targeted manner, if the fluid flow member 75 drains liquid or if it operates empty.

[0136] In a variant, the capacitive sensor 9 can be integrated into a detection unit integrating into the supply system 7, in particular between two conduits and comprising the fluid conduit 72 in which the fluid can circulate. As illustrated in figures 4 to 6, the treatment device 1 can also comprise a capacitive sensor 9 placed at the reservoir 70. The capacitive sensor 9 can advantageously be placed in contact with or facing a wall of the reservoir 70. The fluid reservoir 70 can be of variable volume. In particular, it can comprise a piston forming the fluid flow member 75. In a variant, it can comprise a flexible membrane, the volume of which decreases when the liquid is sent to the fluid outlet(s) 40. The flexible membrane can be configured to decrease the volume of the reservoir 70 by keeping the remaining fluid against the wall over which the capacitive sensor 9 extends. This makes it possible, in particular, for a fluid detection to be possible in the reservoir 70, regardless of the orientation of the device.

[0137] The capacitive sensor 9 preferably extends over the entire surface of the wall of the reservoir 70. The capacitive sensor 9 can however extend substantially over the entire length of the wall of the reservoir 70. By “substantially”, it must be understood that the capacitive sensor 9 can have a length identical to or slightly less than that of the wall of the reservoir 70. In this configuration, the capacitive sensor 9 can measure the presence and / or the absence of liquid in the reservoir 70, regardless of the spatial orientation of the reservoir 70. This configuration is of interest, when the reservoir 70 is located in the handpiece of the treatment device which comprises the two jaws 5, 6 of the treatment device 1. In the example of figure I, the reservoir 70 can be disposed in a jaw 5, 6 of the treatment device I, and in particular in the jaw 6 comprising the vaporisation system 71. When the reservoir is removable from a housing of the handpiece, the capacitive sensor 9 can be arranged in the housing for receiving the reservoir 70 and can face or be in contact with the reservoir 70, when the latter is received in the housing. The capacitive sensor 9 can, in this case, be configured to detect the presence of the reservoir 70 or not in the housing. It can thus emit a fluid detection information of the reservoir 70 and the control unit 100 can switch the device to a reservoir-free mode when a reservoir 70 absence is detected. The reservoir-free mode can be identical to the fluid-free mode or include the fluid-free mode. In particular, the reservoir-free mode can comprise a user alert of the reservoir absence.

[0138] Furthermore, the handpiece can advantageously comprise a member for detecting the configuration of the jaws 5, 6. The detection member can be arranged between the two arms, in particular at the half-handles, to detect if the jaws 5, 6 are in the closed configuration for treatment or in the open configuration. For this, the detection member can, for example, comprise a proximity sensor or a Hall-effect sensor.

[0139] As is illustrated in figure 4, the capacitive sensor 9 can also extend over any length of the reservoir 70, but only over a part of the width of the latter. This configuration advantageously makes it possible to measure the filling level of a fixed reservoir 70, which is therefore offset from the handpiece and fluidically connected to the latter by a pipe, as, in this case, it does not change orientation with the handpiece. This configuration corresponds to a non-illustrated embodiment of the invention, in which the fluid in the liquid state can be contained in a reservoir external to the treatment device 1. To this end, the treatment device 1 can comprise a fixed base comprising the reservoir 70. The fixed base can also comprise means for electrical connection to an electricity distribution network. The vaporisation chamber 73 of the handpiece can thus be fluidically connected to the reservoir 70 by a pipe. The handpiece can also be electrically connected, in particular by a dedicated cable, to the base to power the electronics and the electronic equipment that it comprises. It must be noted that the vaporisation chamber 73 can also be offset from the handpiece and disposed in the fixed base.

[0140] In a variant, the vaporisation system 71 is supplied with fluid in the liquid state by another fluid source, in particular by connection to the general water network.

[0141] Whether the reservoir is integrated in the handpiece or in a remote fixed base, the capacitive sensor 9 can evaluate the filling level in several ways. For example, the processing unit of the capacitive sensor 9 or the control unit can evaluate the filling level of the reservoir by averaging the change in the capacitive value or the variation in the electric field measured over the entire height of the capacitive sensor 9. The capacitive sensor 9 can also be configured to measure several distinct points along the height of the reservoir. In this case, the processing unit of the sensor 9 can evaluate the filling level by identifying the zones against which fluid has been detected. The processing unit can be configured to detect a fluid level less than a predetermined threshold. When the fluid level falls below a determined threshold, the processing unit can advantageously transmit an alert to the control unit 100. The latter can thus be configured to control an alert, such as a warning light which can be combined or not with a sound signal informing the user that the reservoir must be filled.

[0142] The capacitive sensor 9 can be configured to detect the filling level of the reservoir 70 in at least one predetermined orientation of the treatment device 1. In particular, in said orientation of the device, it can detect the variation of the average electric field over its entire height and deduce therefrom, a filling as a function of the detected average variation or measure the variation of the electric field at several points of its height and deduce therefrom, the filling level. Alternatively, it is the control unit 100 that can be configured to determine the filling level of the reservoir 70 according to at least one orientation. According to this alternative, the capacitive sensor 9 directly transmits the measurements that it takes to the control unit 100.

[0143] Alternatively, the capacitive sensor 9 can be positioned facing or in contact with a wall of the fluid reservoir 70 at a predetermined position in the reservoir. The capacitive sensor 9 can, in particular, be arranged in the proximity of a fluid outlet of the reservoir 70, typically in the proximity of the fluid outlet which is connected to the fluid conduit 72. Alternatively, the capacitive sensor 9 can be arranged as a function of a liquid level in at least one orientation of the device corresponding to a quantity of fluid from which the application of fluid is no longer possible, and the sensor 9 generates information on the emptiness of the supply system 7. This makes it possible, in particular, to detect if the fluid outlet is supplied with fluid from the reservoir. Indeed, according to the orientation of the device, if the reservoir has a fixed volume, which is not preferential, the reservoir cannot be empty without the fluid outlet of the reservoir receiving fluid.

[0144] As illustrated in figure 6, the treatment device 1 can comprise several capacitive sensors 9 placed at different sites of the supply system 7. In this example, the treatment device 1 comprises a first capacitive sensor 9 facing a wall of the reservoir 70. Preferably, this first sensor can extend over the entire surface of the wall of the reservoir 70. It is thus possible to measure the filling level of the reservoir, but also the passage of the fluid level below a predetermined filling threshold. In a variant, several capacitive sensors can be arranged facing or in contact with a wall of the reservoir 70 at different levels of the reservoir. A second capacitive sensor 9 is placed at the fluid conduit 72 in the proximity of the vaporisation chamber 73. This arrangement makes it possible to detect an absence of fluid in the fluid conduit 72 independently of the presence of fluid in the reservoir 70. Such a situation can be encountered when the fluid conduit 72 is obstructed or when the fluid flow member 75 malfunctions.

[0145] As illustrated in figure 7, the capacitive sensor 9 sends information 90 to the control unit 100 on the presence and / or the absence of fluid and, in particular, liquid in the supply system 7, and more specifically, at the capacitive sensor 9. The control unit 100 is configured to determine a control signal from the information 90 on the presence of fluid in the supply system 7. The control unit 35 controls the treatment device 1 in a fluid-free mode during detection of an absence of fluid in the supply system 7 and, in particular, facing the capacitive sensor 9.

[0146] The electronic control unit 100 can be integrated into an arm 2, 3 of the treatment device 1. In particular, in the example, the control unit 100 is disposed in the first arm 2 in the proximity of the human-machine interface 101 of the treatment device 1. In this case, the human-machine interface 101 comprises warning lights, haptic sound alarms controlled by the control unit 100.

[0147] When the control unit 100 receives information 90 relating to the absence of fluid in the supply system 7, the control unit 100 can stop the fluid flow member 75 and maintain the operation of the vaporisation system 71 at a reduced temperature, i.e. with the heating element 8 of the system maintained at a reduced temperature, in order to reduce the electrical consumption, while allowing a rapid resumption of treatment. The device 1 thus operates in a fluid-free operating mode, in which the temperature of the treatment pad 4 can be maintained at a treatment temperature. To this end, the treatment pad 4 preferably comprises a temperature control independent of that of the heating element 8 of the vaporisation chamber 73. When fluid is again detected in the supply system 7, the control unit 100 can control the heating element 8 to return to a fluid mode, in which the heating element 8 is heated to a temperature allowing the fluid, and in particular the liquid, to vaporise again.

[0148] Furthermore, the control unit 100 can also transmit a control to the humanmachine interface 101 to alert the user, typically using a warning light, of a sound and / or haptic signal of the absence of fluid in the supply system 7. The fluid-free mode can comprise a different operation of the treatment device 1 and an alert signal. In this way, the device takes a safety and / or economy configuration and the user can immediately identify that the device no longer has any fluid emission and fill the reservoir or unblock the supply system.

[0149] When a capacitive sensor 9 is disposed at the reservoir 70 and makes it possible to measure the level of filling, with fluid, of the reservoir 70, the control unit 100 can take an average of the measurements of the capacitive sensor 9 over time to determine the level of the reservoir. Advantageously, the control unit 100 can perform a sliding average over time. This makes it possible to remove isolated and non-representative measurements of the filling level that can be due to changes in the positions and orientation of the treatment device in space, while the reservoir is partially filled. This is, in particular, the case when the reservoir 70 is integrated into the handpiece of the treatment device 1.

[0150] The device 1 can comprise, according to an embodiment, a power supply. For example, the power supply is produced by means of accumulators and / or batteries and / or by means of an electrical cable connected to a mains outlet or to a mains adapter.

[0151] The power supply can, in particular, make it possible to supply the heating element 8, the fluid flow member 75 or also the capacitive sensor 9 directly or indirectly via a control circuit.

[0152] Thanks to the treatment device according to the invention, it is possible to know if the circulation of liquid in the fluid conduit at the detector is stopped and to deduce therefrom, that the reservoir is empty or the circulation of liquid prevented upstream of the detector, as, if such is the case, the hair treatment loses its effectiveness and the empty operation of the vaporisation chamber and of the pump can lead to a degradation of the equipment, as well as an overconsumption of energy.

[0153] This overconsumption is economically damaging, but can also affect the autonomy of the device if it is battery-operated. As illustrated in figure 8, an aspect of the invention relates to a hair treatment method 200 that, in particular, uses a hair treatment device 1 according to an embodiment of the invention. The treatment method 200 can thus comprise the supply 201 of at least one fluid outlet 40 with fluid by a fluid supply system 7 of the device 1. The supply 201 can be produced such as described above.

[0154] The treatment method 200 can advantageously comprise the detection of the fluid 202 in the supply system 7 by a capacitive sensor 9 and the emission of fluid detection information 90, as is illustrated in figure 7. When a capacitive sensor 9 is disposed at the reservoir 70, the treatment method 200 can comprise the measuring of the fluid level in the reservoir 70, as is described above. With this step being optional, a dotted arrow is represented in figure 8, to symbolise its optional character.

[0155] The method can comprise a step of reading the signals transmitted by the capacitive sensor, for example the values of variation of an electric field, and a step of deducing information on the presence of fluid in the fluid system, in particular, the reservoir 70 or the fluid conduit 72.

[0156] Such as illustrated in figure 8, the treatment method 200 can comprise the emission 204 by a control unit 100 of a control signal in a fluid-free mode of the treatment device 1, when an absence of fluid is detected from the fluid detection information 90. The fluid-free mode can comprise the stopping of a member 75 for circulating the fluid in the fluid conduit 72 or heating a vaporisation chamber 73 in the supply system 7 and / or completely stopping the hair treatment device and / or emitting an alert signal, for example, visual or sound. Such as described above, the fluid-free mode can also comprise a reduction in the heating temperature of the vaporisation chamber 73.

[0157] The method can comprise one or more of the features described above in connection with the hair treatment device 1, independently of the device as defined above and individually or in combination with one another.

[0158] The treatment method can also comprise, in a non-limiting manner, a step of applying a cosmetic composition, such as, for example, a composition for cleaning, dyeing, bleaching, conditioning, repairing or shaping the hair.

Claims

Claims1. Device for treating hair (1), in particular for shaping hair, in particular for straightening and / or curling, comprising: at least one fluid outlet (40) configured to face or be in contact with the hair, a supply system (7) for supplying fluid to the at least one fluid outlet (40), at least one capacitive sensor (9) configured to detect an absence of fluid, in particular liquid, in the supply system (7) at the capacitive sensor (9), the at least one capacitive sensor (9) being configured to emit a fluid detection information of the fluid in the supply system (7), and an electronic control unit (100) configured to emit at least one control signal in a fluid-free mode when an absence of fluid at the capacitive sensor is detected from the information emitted by the capacitive sensor (9), wherein the supply system (7) comprises a vaporisation system (71) comprising at least one vaporisation chamber (73) supplied with fluid and a heating element (8) configured to heat the vaporisation chamber to a temperature greater than or equal to the vaporisation temperature of the fluid, the capacitive sensor being upstream of the vaporisation system, the fluid-free mode being a shutdown mode of the device (1) or a different operating mode of the device (1) by stopping a part of the supply system (7) only or by reducing the energy consumption of the device (1).

2. Hair treatment device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the supply system (7) comprises a fluid reservoir (70) fluidically connected to the at least one fluid outlet (40).

3. Hair treatment device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the control unit (100) is configured to control the vaporisation system (71), in particular to stop the vaporisation system (71) in fluid-free mode or to operate the vaporisation system (71), in particular a heating element (8) of said vaporisation system (71), at reduced temperature, in particular in a not-off operating range and below the vaporisation temperature of the liquid.

4. Hair treatment device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the fluid-free mode is an operating mode of the device (1) in which the heating element (8) is at a temperature less than or equal to the vaporisation temperature of the fluid.

5. Hair treatment device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, the supply system (7) comprises a fluid flow member(75), in particular a pump, forflowing the fluid in the supply system (7), the control unit (100) being configured to control the fluid flow member(75), in particular, the control unit (100) is configured to control the stopping of the fluid flow member(75) when it determines the control signal in fluid-free mode.

6. Hair treatment device (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the supply system (7) comprises a fluid reservoir (70) fluidically connected to the at least one fluid outlet (40) and the fluid flow member(75) is configured to be mounted on the reservoir or a fluid system extending between the reservoir and the vaporisation system, in particular a fluid conduit (72) of the fluid system.

7. Hair treatment device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one capacitive sensor (9) is configured to detect the presence of fluid in the liquid state.

8. Hair treatment device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one capacitive sensor (9) is disposed facing or in contact with a fluid conduit (72) of the supply system (7), in particular of the fluid system supplying the vaporisation system to detect the presence or the absence of fluid at its level circulating in said fluid conduit (72).

9. Hair treatment device (1) according to any one of claims 6 and 7, wherein the at least one sensor (9) is upstream of the fluid flow member(75) in the flow direction of the fluid, i.e. from the reservoir (70) to the at least one fluid outlet (40), in particular between the reservoir (70) and the fluid flow member(75).

10. Hair treatment device (1) according to claim 2, wherein the at least one capacitive sensor (9) is disposed facing or in contact with a wall of the fluid reservoir (70), the capacitive sensor (9) being configured, in particular, to detect the presence and / or the absence of fluid throughout the volume of the reservoir (70).

11. Hair treatment device (1) according to claim 10, wherein the at least one sensor (9) extends substantially over the entire length of the reservoir (70).

12. Hair treatment device (1) according to any one of claims 10 and 11, wherein the at least one sensor (9) is configured to detect the filling level of the reservoir (70) in at least one predetermined orientation of the device.

13. Hair treatment device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising two jaws (5, 6) disposed facing one another and hinged to one another betweena closed configuration for treatment and an open configuration for engaging the hair between the jaws (5, 6), at least one of the jaws (5, 6) comprising the supply system (7).

14. Hair treatment device (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein at least one of the jaws (5, 6) comprises an internal treatment member, in particular defining the treatment pad (4), comprising an internal treatment surface configured to come into contact with or face a part of the strand of hair in the closed configuration.

15. Hair treatment method (200) by a hair treatment device, in particular using the hair treatment device (1) defined according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising: supplying (201) at least one fluid outlet (40) with fluid by a fluid supply system (7) of the device (1), the supply system (7) comprising a vaporisation system (71) comprising at least one vaporisation chamber (73) supplied with fluid and a heating element (8) configured to heat the vaporisation chamber to a temperature greater than or equal to the vaporisation temperature of the fluid, detecting (202) the fluid in the supply system (7) by a capacitive sensor (9) and emitting a fluid detection information (90), the capacitive sensor being upstream of the vaporisation system, and emitting (204) by a control unit (100) of a control signal in a fluid-free mode of the device when an absence of fluid at the capacitive sensor (9) in the supply system (7) is detected from the fluid detection information (90), the fluid-free mode being a stop mode of the device (1) or a different operating mode of the device (1) by stopping a part of the supply system (7) only or by reducing the energy consumption of the device (1).

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