Volumizing Device With Grid Teeth Eliminates Visible Crimp Patterns
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hair treatment devices, such as crimping irons, are not designed for volumizing hair and leave visible patterns or frizz when used for lifting, as they create a firm support structure that is not stable and results in undesirable crimped pleats, which are not suitable for creating the appearance of greater hair volume without altering the hairstyle.
Innovation Solution
A hair volumizing device with interlocking plates featuring a two-dimensional array of outwardly projecting individual teeth in a checkerboard pattern, which creates a three-dimensional matrix in the under layers of hair to lift the upper layers without leaving a visible pattern, providing structural support and minimizing frizz.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If a crimping device with columnar saw-tooth teeth is used to create volume by lifting the upper hair layer, then the upper layer is lifted and held away from the head creating the appearance of greater hair volume, but the device leaves a noticeable crimped pattern in the under layer that shows through to the upper layers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single row of long columnar teeth into multiple rows of shorter individual teeth arranged in a grid pattern. This segmentation breaks up the continuous crimped pattern into discrete, scattered creases that do not form a visible overall pattern, while still providing sufficient lift to the upper hair layer to create volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a one-dimensional arrangement (single row of teeth along the length of the plate) to a two-dimensional arrangement (grid pattern of teeth across the surface of the plate). This dimensional change allows the teeth to be distributed more evenly across the treatment area, creating a uniform scattering of creases that prevents pattern visibility while maintaining volumizing effectiveness.
2Strength
If columnar teeth are used to create a support structure in the under layer of hair, then some volume is created, but the support structure is not firm enough to sustain the upper layer and the crimped pleats are not stable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the support structure into multiple discrete teeth arranged in a grid, creating numerous small support points distributed across the under layer. This segmented approach distributes the load of the upper hair layer across many stable anchor points, creating a firmer and more sustainable support structure compared to the continuous but unstable crimped pleats of columnar teeth.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates preliminary creases and anchor points in the under layer of hair through the grid of individual teeth before the upper layer is styled. These pre-established support points provide a stable foundation that sustains the upper layer throughout the day, preventing collapse of the volumizing effect.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a crimping device is repurposed for volumizing by applying it only to the under layer of hair, then the upper layer rests further away from the head creating volume, but the device is not specifically designed for lifting and does not meet the requirements for firm support without visible pattern
Solution Approach 1:
The patent redesigns the tooth structure from a single row of long columnar teeth into a grid pattern of shorter individual teeth. This segmented configuration is specifically engineered for volumizing applications, creating discrete support points that provide firm lift while preventing visible patterns, thereby achieving the precision required for dedicated volumizing devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a two-dimensional grid arrangement of teeth across the treatment plate surface, transitioning from the one-dimensional single-row configuration of conventional crimpers. This dimensional enhancement allows for optimized distribution of support points and crease patterns that specifically address volumizing requirements while eliminating visible patterning.
Data Source
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AI summary
A hair volumizing device designed specifically for adding lift or volume to any hairstyle. The device comprises two arms with heated interlocking plates that employ interlocking two dimensional arrays of outwardly projecting individual teeth with alternating spaces. The individual tooth design and the two-dimensional array pattern provide substantial lift and holding strength. The individual teeth of the volumizing device transforms the under layer of hair of a person into a matrix that can support the outer or upper visible layer of hair to create volume. The various embodiments of this concept also minimize any discernible pattern left in the hair.