CN107224084B

CN107224084B - Accessory for a hand-held appliance

Info

Publication number: CN107224084B
Application number: CN201710179645.XA
Authority: CN
Inventors: J.J.H.赫弗; S.B.考特尼; R.M.B.科尔顿; R.L.特威迪; A.M.麦克琳; A.R.尼科尔森; E.V.卡森
Original assignee: Dyson Technology Ltd
Current assignee: Dyson Technology Ltd
Priority date: 2016-03-24
Filing date: 2017-03-23
Publication date: 2023-08-22
Anticipated expiration: 2037-03-23
Also published as: EP3432758A1; AU2017236399A1; WO2017163004A1; RU2018136759A3; AU2017236399B2; RU2018136759A; CN207355685U; GB2548816B; JP2017170152A; CN107224084A; GB201605027D0; US20170273430A1; GB2548816A; KR20180120255A

Abstract

An accessory for a hair styling appliance comprising: a housing having an air inlet for receiving an air flow from a hair styling appliance; a hair engagement member supported by the housing; a first air flow outlet between the housing and the hair engagement member; a second air flow outlet spaced from the first air flow outlet, between the housing and the hair engagement member; and an internal air flow directing means positioned within the housing to direct air toward the first air flow outlet and the second air flow outlet.

Description

Accessory for a hand-held appliance

Technical Field

The present invention relates to an accessory for a hand-held appliance, in particular a hair care appliance, such as a hot air styling apparatus.

Background

In conventional hot air styling apparatus, air is drawn into the inlet by a fan unit and directed toward the hair by an accessory or head. Depending on the desired hairstyle, the air may or may not be heated. The attachment typically includes bristles to which hair is covered or held for styling. Air is typically blown from the accessory normal to the longitudinal surface of the accessory.

Disclosure of Invention

In a first aspect, the present invention provides an accessory for a hair styling appliance, the accessory comprising a housing having an air inlet for receiving an air flow from the hair styling appliance, a hair engagement member supported by the housing and adapted to move relative to the housing between a first position and a second position, and wherein a first air flow outlet is formed between the housing and the hair engagement member when the hair engagement member is in the first position, and a second air flow outlet spaced from the first air flow outlet when the hair engagement member is in the second position is formed between the housing and the hair engagement member, and wherein the first air flow outlet is open and the second air flow outlet is closed when the hair engagement member is in the first position, and the first air flow outlet is closed and the second air flow outlet is open when the hair engagement member is in the second position.

The hair engagement member is preferably adapted for rocking movement relative to the housing. The hair engagement member is pivotally supported within the housing through a central axis of the hair engagement member. Preferably, the hair engagement member is pivotally supported by a pivot pin that mounts the hair engagement member within the housing. The hair engagement member preferably has an angle of movement in the range of 5 ° to 30 °.

Preferably, the hair engagement member moves into the first position when the accessory is pulled through the user's hair in a first direction and into the second position when the accessory is pulled through the user's hair in a second direction opposite the first direction.

Each of the first air flow outlet and the second air flow outlet preferably comprises a plurality of outlet apertures. Furthermore, the plurality of outlet holes are preferably arranged in rows.

Preferably, each of the first air flow outlet and the second air flow outlet is defined by a respective side of the hair engagement member and a respective portion of the housing. Each of the first air flow outlet and the second air flow outlet is preferably channel-shaped. Preferably, the hair engagement member has an elongated form and each of the first air flow outlet and the second air flow outlet preferably extends substantially the length of the hair engagement member.

In a preferred embodiment, the accessory comprises two hair engagement members. Preferably, the housing comprises an outer housing section and an inner housing section, with the protruding portion of the inner housing section being located between the hair engaging members. In the first configuration of the accessory, the first hair engagement member preferably defines a first air flow outlet with the protruding portion in the first position, and the second hair engagement member preferably defines a second air flow outlet with the outer housing section in the second position. In a second configuration of the accessory, the first hair engagement member preferably defines a third air flow outlet with the outer housing section in the second position, and the second hair engagement member preferably defines a fourth air flow outlet with the protruding portion in the second position. Preferably, the first hair engaging member and the second hair engaging member move in synchronization.

Moreover, the accessory is preferably moved between the first configuration and the second configuration by an eccentric mechanism. Preferably, the eccentric mechanism is a torsion spring connected between the first hair engaging member and the second hair engaging member. The biasing action of the torsion spring may be achieved in several alternative ways. For example, a magnetic catch or a force-movable member or an integrated ball bearing in the stop device may be used.

An advantage is an eccentric mechanism for the movement of the movable members for biasing the movement of each movable member in a direction opposite to the current direction of the movable member, ensuring that the movable members can tilt in the opposite direction without obstruction.

In a second aspect, the present invention provides an accessory for a hair styling appliance, the accessory comprising a housing having an air inlet for receiving an air stream from the hair styling appliance, a hair engagement member supported by the housing, a first air flow outlet between the housing and the hair engagement member, a second air flow outlet spaced from the first air flow outlet and between the housing and the hair engagement member, and internal air flow guiding means positioned within the housing to guide air towards the first air flow outlet and the second air flow outlet. Preferably, each of the first air flow outlet and the second air flow outlet is at least partially defined by a respective side wall of the housing.

The term "air flow directing means" refers to a fin, a baffle, a rib, or any other arrangement that directs an air flow along an air flow path.

In a preferred embodiment, the internal air flow directing means comprises a plurality of fins. The internal air flow directing means preferably comprises a plurality of housing fins connected to the housing. Moreover, the plurality of housing tabs includes a first series of housing tabs and a second series of housing tabs, the first series of housing tabs being located on the first side wall of the housing and adjacent the first air flow outlet; a second series of housing fins is located on the second side wall of the housing adjacent the second air flow outlet. Each of the first series of housing tabs is preferably oriented generally perpendicular to an edge of the first side wall of the housing (which defines the first air flow outlet), and each of the second series of housing tabs is oriented generally perpendicular to an edge of the second side wall of the housing (which defines the second air flow outlet). Preferably, the fins in the first and second series of housing fins are substantially evenly spaced apart.

In another preferred embodiment, the internal air flow directing means comprises a plurality of edge tabs connected to the hair engagement member. The plurality of edge tabs includes a first series of edge tabs and a second series of edge tabs, the first series of edge tabs being located on a first side of the hair engagement member and adjacent to the first air flow outlet; a second series of edge tabs is located on a second side of the hair engagement member adjacent the second air flow outlet.

Preferably, each tab of the first series of edge tabs is oriented generally perpendicular to an edge of the hair engagement member (which is adjacent the first air flow outlet), and each tab of the second series of edge tabs is oriented generally perpendicular to an edge of the hair engagement member (which is adjacent the second air flow outlet).

The flaps of the first and second series of edge flaps are preferably approximately evenly spaced apart. Preferably, the edge tab and the shell tab have similar positioning patterns such that the edge tab and the shell tab are continuously aligned with each other.

The hair engagement member preferably has an elongated form and each of the first air flow outlet and the second air flow outlet preferably extends substantially the length of the hair engagement member.

In a preferred embodiment, the accessory comprises two hair engagement members. Preferably, each hair engagement member forms with the housing a respective first air outlet and a respective second air outlet. The hair engagement members are preferably arranged side by side. The housing preferably includes an outer housing section and an inner housing section with the protruding portion of the inner housing section being located between the hair engaging members.

In a preferred embodiment, the internal air flow directing means further comprises a series of central baffles (positioned between the hair engaging members and contacting the inner surface of the protruding portion). Preferably, a series of center baffles extend parallel to the inner side of the first hair engaging member and the inner side of the second hair engaging member. The baffles in the series of central baffles preferably have an open spoon shape adapted to turn the received air stream through about 90 degrees towards the protruding portion.

Advantageously, turbulence within the accessory is minimized and thus the sound volume of a hot air styling apparatus with an accessory is reduced in use.

Preferably, the first series of inner edge flaps is located on the side of the first hair engagement member adjacent the projection. The second series of inner edge tabs are preferably located on the side of the second hair engaging member adjacent the projection. The baffles in the series of central baffles and the fins within the first and second series of inner edge fins preferably have similar positioning patterns such that the baffles and fins are continuously aligned with each other.

Advantageously, the regular notches along the sides of the movable member combine with the inner center panel and the inner housing tab to form an emission of air flow exiting the accessory.

In a third aspect, the present invention provides an accessory for a hair styling appliance, the accessory comprising a housing having an air inlet for receiving an air flow from the hair styling appliance, a hair engagement member supported by the housing, an air flow outlet between the housing and the hair engagement member and adapted to direct air across an outer surface of the hair engagement member, and air flow directing means extending across an outer surface of the hair engagement member. Preferably, the air outlet is defined by a side surface of the hair engagement member and a side wall of the housing.

The hair engagement member is preferably elongate in shape, with the air outlet extending substantially the length of the hair engagement member.

Preferably, the air flow directing means comprises a series of ribs. Each rib in the series of ribs is preferably positioned parallel to an adjacent rib with a channel defined therebetween. Each rib of the series of ribs preferably extends generally perpendicular to the length direction of the hair engagement member. Preferably, the ribs within a series of ribs have a uniform rib width. Each channel in the series of ribs preferably has a uniform channel width, and the channel width is preferably greater than the width of the ribs. In a preferred embodiment, the width of each channel is in the range of 2 mm to 4 mm.

Advantageously, the channels between adjacent ribs serve to direct the air flow over the surface of the movable member and thereby the uniform, parallel air flow blows along the hair shafts of the user's hair.

Preferably, the outer surface of the hair engagement member has a generally arcuate profile in a direction perpendicular to the length of the hair engagement member. In another preferred embodiment, the accessory comprises two hair engagement members. The hair engagement members are preferably arranged side by side. The housing preferably includes an outer housing section and an inner housing section with the protruding portion of the inner housing section being located between the hair engaging members. Preferably, the accessory comprises a further air outlet between the housing and the second hair engagement member, and the further air outlet is adapted to direct air across the outer surface of the second hair engagement member.

In a fourth aspect, the present invention provides an accessory for a hair styling appliance, the accessory comprising an air inlet for receiving an air flow from the hair styling appliance, at least one air outlet, a cavity for transporting air from the air inlet to the at least one air outlet, wherein the air inlet is located at one end of the cavity and the at least one air outlet extends along the length of the cavity, and the cross-sectional area of the cavity decreases in size from the air inlet along the length of the at least one air outlet.

An advantage is a reduction in the internal cross-sectional area of the accessory towards the downstream end of the accessory, as a more uniform pressure is across the interior space of the accessory. Furthermore, the attachment of air flow to the inner center baffle and inner side flaps is enhanced as a result of the gradual decrease in the inner cross-sectional area.

Preferably, the housing includes a base positioned opposite the air outlet. Preferably, the base is generally planar and gradually slopes towards the air outlet as the distance from the air inlet increases. The base preferably comprises a first layer and a second layer, which are separated by an insulating cavity.

In a preferred embodiment, the accessory includes a distal end opposite the air inlet, and an insulating cover at the distal end. The insulating cover preferably has a heat resistant protrusion extending away from the air inlet.

In a fifth aspect, the present invention provides an accessory for a hair styling appliance, the accessory comprising a housing having an air inlet for receiving an air flow from the hair styling appliance, a hair engagement member supported by the housing, a first air flow outlet being formed between the housing and the hair engagement member, a second air flow outlet being spaced from the first air flow outlet, between the housing and the hair engagement member, and at least one air flow barrier on an outer surface of the accessory extending between the first air flow outlet and the second air flow outlet.

Preferably, the air flow emitted through the first air flow outlet or the second air flow outlet is directed across the outer surface of the hair engagement member by at least one air flow barrier. In a preferred embodiment, the at least one air flow barrier has a height in the range of 1 to 4 millimeters. The at least one air flow obstruction may preferably be a ridge.

The first air flow barrier is preferably located between the hair engagement member and the air inlet, and the second air flow barrier is preferably located between the hair engagement member and the end of the accessory opposite the air inlet. At least one of the first air flow barrier and the second air flow barrier is preferably connected to the hair engagement member. In addition, at least one of the first air flow barrier and the second air flow barrier is preferably connected to the housing. Preferably, the hair engagement member is elongate in shape.

The advantage is that the raised ridge adjacent each end of the movable member serves to avoid entrainment of ambient air.

In a sixth aspect, the present invention provides an accessory for a hair styling appliance, the accessory comprising a housing having an air inlet for receiving an air stream from the hair styling appliance, the hair engaging member being supported by the housing, and wherein the hair engaging member comprises a row of bristles which protrude from an outer surface of the hair engaging member, and wherein each bristle in the row has an elongate form and an oval transverse cross-section.

Preferably, the housing comprises a row of bristles which protrude from the outer surface of the housing. The row preferably comprises bristles arranged in parallel rows. Each bristle preferably has a spherical portion at the end. In a preferred embodiment, the accessory comprises two hair engagement members (which are supported by the housing), and the hair engagement members are preferably arranged side by side. In this preferred embodiment, the amount of bristles in the row on each hair engagement member is preferably the same. Advantageously, the shape of the bristles enables smooth movement of the attachment through the hair and minimizes tangling of the hair.

The feature descriptions described above in connection with the first aspect of the invention are equally applicable to each of the second to sixth aspects of the invention, and vice versa.

Drawings

Preferred features of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an accessory;

FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the accessory;

FIG. 3 is a side view of an accessory;

FIG. 4 is a front view of the accessory;

FIG. 5a is a cross-sectional view taken along line D-D in FIG. 4;

FIG. 5b is a schematic longitudinal cross-sectional view of the interior space of the accessory;

FIG. 6a is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B in FIG. 3, showing the movable member in a first configuration;

FIG. 6b is a cross-sectional view taken along line C-C in FIG. 3, showing the movable member in a first configuration;

FIG. 6c is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B in FIG. 3, showing the movable member in a second configuration;

FIG. 6d is a cross-sectional view taken along line C-C in FIG. 3, showing the movable member in a second configuration;

fig. 7a is a side view of a bristle row for an accessory;

FIG. 7b is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A in FIG. 7 a;

FIG. 7C is a cross-sectional view taken along line C-C in FIG. 7 a;

FIG. 7D is a cross-sectional view taken along line D-D in FIG. 7 a;

FIG. 8 is a side view of an example of a hot air molding apparatus to which accessories may be connected.

Detailed Description

Fig. 1 is an exterior view of the accessory 10. The accessory 10 includes an air inlet 12 for receiving an air flow from an air outlet of a hot air styling apparatus or similar appliance. Referring also to fig. 2, 3 and 4, the air intake 12 is defined by an outer shell (including an outer shell section 44, an inner shell section 45 and a fixed plate 62). The air inlet 12 is generally circular in shape to enable a gas-tight sealing connection with a generally annular outlet end of the hot air moulding apparatus. The annular collar section 14 forms a smooth edge from the outer surface of the hot air styling apparatus to the outer housing section 44 of the accessory 10.

The accessory includes at least one hair engagement member for engaging hair during use of the hot air styling apparatus. In this embodiment, the accessory comprises two hair engagement members. Each hair engagement member includes a movable member and a set of bristles supported by the movable member. In this embodiment, the first and second movable members 16, 18 are both elongate in form and are arranged side by side. The movable member is longitudinally positioned on both sides of the central fixed protrusion 22. The central securing tab 22 forms part of an inner housing section 45 about which an outer housing section 44 extends. The first end of each movable member is positioned adjacent the air inlet end of the accessory 10 and the second end of each movable member is positioned adjacent the distal end of the accessory 10. The first and second movable members 16, 18 are positioned between the outer and inner housing sections 44, 45 and are supported at the distal end of the attachment 10 by a fixed plate 62 for movement relative to the housing. At the distal end of the accessory is a cover 24 housing a movement mechanism for moving the movable member relative to the housing and attached cooling tip 26.

Each movable member has a curved outer surface. A plurality of parallel ribs 30 are positioned on the outer surface, with the ribs 30 extending perpendicular to the length of the movable member. Two adjacent ribs 30 form a channel 32 therebetween. The total area of the ribs 30 on each movable member has a rectangular form, surrounded by a smooth peripheral surface. Each rib 30 supports a respective row of bristles 20.

In this embodiment, the width of each channel 32 is preferably equal to or less than the height of the rib 30. In an alternative embodiment, the width of each channel 32 is wider than the width of the rib 30. In another alternative embodiment, the channel 32 may comprise a polyhedral geometry, which is determined by fluid dynamic analysis.

Both the first and second movable members 16, 18 have an inner side 34 (adjacent the central fixed projection 22) and an outer side 40 (adjacent the side wall 42 of the outer housing section 44). The inner side 34 of each movable member includes a series of regular indentations 36. The outer side 40 of each movable member includes a series of regular indentations 38. Referring to fig. 1, these regular indentations are not visible external features of the accessory 10 when assembled. The regular notches 36 along the inner side 34 preferably have a width of about 1 mm-2 mm and a spacing of about 10 mm-15 mm. The regular indentations 38 along the lateral side 40 preferably have a width of about 2 mm-3 mm and a spacing of about 2 mm-3 mm.

A series of baffles 46 are attached to the underside of the central stationary projection 22. As shown in fig. 5, the side profile of each baffle 46 is generally curved, and the curvature of the series of baffles 46 gradually decreases from the air inlet end of the attachment 10 to the distal end of the attachment 10. The rear side 50 of each baffle 46 is attached to a respective support 52, and this support 52 is also attached to the base 53 of the inner housing section 45. It is also contemplated that the baffles 46 may be supported in alternative arrangements, such as the baffles being individually in contact with the central stationary projection 22 or a pair of parallel supports at both sides of each single plate 46 and positioned in alignment with the longitudinal axis of the attachment 10. In the preferred embodiment, the baffle 46 positioned closest to the air inlet 12 has a minimum radius of 6 millimeters.

Referring to fig. 2, a curved base 54 of the outer housing section 44 extends between the outer side walls 42. A series of side flaps 56 are positioned internally on each side wall 42 of the outer housing section 44. In particular, each side flap 56 is positioned in axial alignment with a projection 57 of the outer side 40 of one of the movable members, thereby resulting in an airtight seal when the movable member is moved relative to the outer housing section 44 such that the successive side flaps 56 and projections 57 are in contact. When the movable member is in this position, the channels between adjacent side flaps 56 are axially aligned with corresponding notches 38 in the outer side 40 of the movable member, thereby forming a series of channels.

With further reference to fig. 2, the components positioned at the end of the accessory 10 are primarily used to enable the pivoting mechanism for movement of the first and second movable members 16, 18 relative to the housing. In particular, the pivot pin 58 is received into a centrally located hole 60 in the end face of the second end of each movable member. These pivot pins 58 pass through the fixed plate 62 and are received into holes in the first side of the end cap 24. The central axis about which the first movable member 16 is tilted is shown in fig. 2, indicated by the dashed line X. The central axis about which the second movable member 18 is tilted is indicated by a broken line Y. Each movable member has a movement angle (which is in the range of 5 ° to 30 °). In a preferred embodiment, the movement angle is 12 °.

A link arm pin 64 protrudes from the outside of the end face of the second end of each movable member. Each link arm pin 64 passes through an oblong hole in the fixed plate 62 and is received in a respective end of a link arm 68. The link arm 68 acts to ensure that the first and second movable members 16, 18 move synchronously with respect to the outer housing section 44.

A spring pin 70 protrudes from the inside of the end face of the second end of each movable member. Each spring pin 70 passes through an enlarged hole 72 of the fixed plate 62 and through a leg 74 of a torsion spring 76 and is ultimately received into a corresponding hole in the first side of the end cap 24. The torsion spring 76 acts as an over-center mechanism between the stable first position and the stable second position, ensuring that the first and second movable members 16, 18 can tilt between the stable first and second positions without obstruction.

The second side of the cover 24 includes a central extension structure that cools the tip 26 (which is relatively insulated from the heat of the air flow within the accessory).

Fig. 3 is an external side view of the attachment 10, showing the location of the transverse cross-sections denoted B-B and C-C. Fig. 3 shows a first raised ridge 78 (which is positioned adjacent the first end of each movable member) and a second raised ridge 80 (which is positioned adjacent the second end of each movable member). The first raised ridge 78 is part of the outer housing section 44. The second raised ridge 80 is part of the cover 24. The height of the first raised ridge 78 and the second raised ridge 80 is preferably in the range of about 1 millimeter to 4 millimeters.

Fig. 4 is a front view of the attachment 10, shown as viewed from the air intake end 12. The connecting ring 82 has four regularly spaced protrusions 84 (which form a snap-fit arrangement by which the accessory 10 is mounted to the hot air moulding apparatus). A structural line D-D passes through each baffle 46 in the series.

Fig. 5a is a cross-sectional view taken along line D-D in fig. 4. Within the cooling tip 26 are provided several elongated cavities 86 that serve to stiffen the cooling tip and also minimize convection and heat conduction to the outer surface of the cooling tip 26. The internal cross-sectional area of the fitment 10 gradually decreases from the gas inlet end toward the distal end of the fitment. In particular, the base 53 of the inner housing section 45 is inclined away from the base 54 of the outer housing section 44 towards the movable member, creating a cavity 90, which cavity 90 is delimited by the base 53 and the base 54 and an end plate 92 of the inner housing section 45.

Fig. 5b schematically shows the air inlet 12 and a plurality of air outlets (indicated by vertical arrows). Trapezoid 55 represents a cross-sectional view of the interior space of the accessory taken along line D-D in fig. 4. The lateral cross-sectional area of the inside of the appendage at the upstream end is represented by the right edge 59 of the trapezoid 55. The lateral cross-sectional area of the inside of the appendage at the distal end is represented by the left edge 61 of trapezoid 55. The cross-sectional area of the interior space of the fitment tapers gradually between a minimum cross-sectional area 61 at the distal end and a maximum cross-sectional area 59 at the upstream end.

In one embodiment, the base 53 has a smoothly curved profile (which has a maximum height at the center of the end plate 92) with a downwardly sloping profile toward the side wall 42 and away from the end plate 92. In another embodiment, a gradual taper of the interior cross-sectional area of the fitment 10 may be achieved in alternative configurations of the base 53.

The "reciprocating movement" of the movable member will be described with reference to fig. 6a to 6 d. Fig. 6a and 6B show cross-sectional views taken along lines B-B and C-C in fig. 3 when the movable member is in a first configuration relative to the housing. Fig. 6c and 6d are similar cross-sectional views of fig. 6a and 6b, but when the movable member is in a second configuration relative to the housing. In use, the action of the user pulls the accessory through the hair to create tension in the bristles 20 in opposite directions. The pulling force in the bristles thereby occurs in each movable member and each movable member moves in the direction of the pulling force such that the movable member adopts either the first configuration or the second configuration during use of the accessory 10.

Fig. 6a and 6b show the position of each movable member in the first configuration as the attachment 10 is moved in a left-to-right direction (as indicated by arrow 88) through the hair of a user in use. The first movable member 16 shown at the left side of fig. 6a is in a first position relative to the housing, wherein the outer section of the upper surface is in flush, airtight contact with the side wall 42 of the outer housing section 44. The inner side 34 of the first movable member 16 is positioned below and vertically overlaps the central stationary projection 22. A first inner air outlet 94 is formed between the central stationary projection 22 and the inner side 34 of the first movable member 16.

The second movable member 18 shown at the right side of fig. 6a is in a second position relative to the housing, wherein the inner side 35 is in flush, airtight contact with the central stationary projection 22. The second movable member 18 has an outer section positioned at an upper surface below the side wall 42 of the outer housing section 44. A second outer air outlet 95 is formed between the second movable member 18 and the side wall 42 of the outer housing section 44.

Fig. 6b shows the movable member in the same position as in fig. 6a, as will be apparent to a person skilled in the art. The cross-sectional section C-C (fig. 3) passes through the support 52 of the baffle 46 and through the narrow neck 93 of the baffle 46. The inner side 34 of the first movable member 16 contacts the narrow neck 93 of the flap 46. Regularly spaced notches 36 on the longitudinal inner side 34 of each movable member contact the regularly spaced baffles 46 to divide the interior air outlet 94 into a series of central air outlet holes. Likewise, the regularly spaced inner side flaps 56 and the regularly spaced projections 57 on the outer side 40 of each movable member contact to divide the outer air outlet 95 into a series of outer air outlet holes.

When the brushing direction of the user is reversed, as is the pulling direction in the bristles 20, then the movable members move synchronously to their opposite positions. Thus, the first and second movable members 16, 18 are in a second configuration relative to the housing, as shown in fig. 6c and 6 d. In particular, the attachment 10 moves in a right to left direction (as indicated by arrow 89) in use. The first movable member shown at the left side of fig. 6c is in a second position, in which the inner side 34 is in contact with the central stationary projection 22 and the outer side 40 is positioned below the outer side wall 42 of the outer housing section 44. A third external air outlet 97 is formed between the first movable member 16 and the side wall 42 of the outer housing section 44.

The second movable member 18 shown at the right side of fig. 6c is in a second position, in which the outer side surface 40 is in contact with the outer side wall 42 of the outer housing section 44. The second movable member 18 has an inner section of an upper surface that is placed below and vertically overlaps the center fixed protruding portion 22. A fourth internal air outlet 96 is formed between the second movable member 18 and the central stationary projection 22.

It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that fig. 6d shows the movable member in the second configuration, thereby showing the same position as shown in fig. 6 c. The cross-sectional section C-C (fig. 3) passes through the support 52 of the baffle 46 and through the narrow neck 93 of the baffle 46.

Such a synchronous movement between two relative positions is a so-called "reciprocating" movement. This "reciprocation" movement is permitted and limited by the oblong holes 72 and 66 in the fixed plate 62, with the pivot pin 58 and the link arm pin 64 being positioned through the respective oblong holes 72 and 66. The fitment 10 has a single open inner air outlet and a single open outer air outlet when the movable member adopts one of two different stable configurations. For example, when the movable member is in the first configuration, the air flow outlets 94, 95 are open and the air flow outlets 96, 97 are closed. When the movable member is in the second configuration, the air outlets 94, 95 are closed and the air outlets 96, 97 are open.

In use, the accessory 10 is connected to the air outlet end of a hot air styling apparatus. The air flow passes from the hot air shaping apparatus through the air inlet 12 and into the accessory 10. The front side 48 of each of the series of baffles 46 serves to redirect the incident air flow. In particular, the incident air flow from the air inlet 12 is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the accessory 10. The baffle 46 changes this path approximately 90 degrees in the direction of the central stationary projection 22 and toward the open inner air outlet 94. Both the front side 48 and the rear side 50 of each baffle 46 help to change the direction of air flow. In cooperation with the regular indentations on the inner side 34 of each movable member, a series of baffles 46 form a first series of air jets exiting the attachment 10.

In addition, the side flaps 56 serve to direct the air flow toward the open exterior air outlet 95 and cooperate by the regular notches 38 in the outer side 40 of each movable member to form a second series of air jets exiting the attachment 10.

Due to the profile of the movable members, air flowing out of the attachment 10 through one of the open inner air outlet and the open outer air outlet is directed to flow over the outer surface of an adjacent one of the movable members. The formation of the side flaps 56 and the baffles 46 enables the air stream to exit the spray straight and parallel, flowing evenly across the surface of the movable member, thereby attracting hair to the surface of the movable member. In an exemplary embodiment, the airflow rate exiting each air flow outlet is about 30 meters/second.

As a result of the size of the air outflow opening and the contour of each movable member, outside air is drawn into the surface air stream. Thus, the air flow through the channel 32 and along the length of the user's hair is enlarged by the ambient air flow. In addition, the form and size of the channels 32 enhance flow attachment as the air flow moves across the surface of the movable member.

Referring to fig. 6a and 6b, when the accessory 10 is moved in use in a left to right direction (as indicated by arrow 88 at the top of the figure), then the air flow across the surface of each movable member is in the opposite direction, as indicated by the smaller air flow arrows. Referring to fig. 6c and 6d, when the direction of use of the accessory 10 is reversed, then the direction of air flow across the surface of each movable member is also reversed.

The cross-sectional area of the interior space of the fitment 10 gradually decreases toward the downstream end of the fitment 10. The effect of the reduction in cross-sectional area is to ensure a constant pressure of the air flow exiting the accessory along the entire length of the air outlet and to prevent turbulence. The decrease in cross-sectional area is proportional to the mass flow rate of the air flow decrease within the accessory. The mass flow rate decreases from the upstream end of the fitting to the downstream end of the fitting through the inner and outer air outlets as the air flow exits the fitting 10. Thus, the reduction in cross-sectional area results in a constant airflow rate exiting the attachment along the entire length of the air outlet. It was also observed that the air flow to the fins and baffles was enhanced attachment as a result of the gradual decrease in the internal cross-sectional area.

The first raised ridge 78 and the second raised ridge 80 serve to avoid unwanted entrainment of ambient air into the uniform, parallel air flow moving through the channel 32.

Figures 7a to 7d show preferred forms of bristles for an accessory. Fig. 7a shows a row of bristles, wherein each bristle 99 is attached to an elongated base plate 98. A vertical cross-section A-A through bristles 99 is shown in fig. 7 b. The base ends 100 of the bristles 99 are wider than the tips 102 of the bristles and the sides are generally straight, with a generally spherical form at the tips 102 of the bristles 99. As shown in fig. 7c, the cross-section through the end 102 of each bristle is circular. Fig. 7d shows that the cross-section through the base end 100 of each bristle 99 is oval. Once assembled, the longer dimension of the oval profile of each bristle 20 is aligned with the longer dimension of each rib 30 on each movable member. In alternative embodiments, each bristle 99 has an elliptical cross-section throughout the bristle and the cross-section may decrease in size progressively toward the ends 102 of the bristles 99.

Further, each bristle 99 may be contoured in form to optimize the flow attachment as the air flow moves between the bristles 20 and across the surface of each movable member. In a preferred embodiment, the bristles 20 are capable of bending and may be about 15 millimeters long. The bristles 20 may be formed with or without a generally spherical end form.

The skilled person will appreciate that the bristles of the accessory of the present hot air moulding apparatus may be individually assembled or pre-formed with two or more rows of connected bristles (as shown in figure 7 a). Each bristle 99 is positioned into a rib 30 and, optionally, the rib 30 may allow each bristle 99 to move in one or more directions. For example, a small cushioned movement of each bristle 99 along the longitudinal axis of the bristle may improve the comfort of the user experience, as the bristle will have a reduced force against the scalp.

Referring to fig. 1, the upper surface of each movable member has an arcuate form and thus the ribs 30 define the same arcuate form. Thus, the vertical alignment of bristles 20 held within a single rib 30 is non-parallel.

Fig. 8 shows an example of a hot air styling apparatus 104 to which the accessory 10 may be connected. The hot air styling apparatus includes a generally tubular handle 106 having an air inlet 108 and an air outlet 110 at opposite ends. At the air inlet of the handle, a row of holes extends around and partially along the handle 106, providing an air inlet 108. The fan unit within handle 106 includes a fan and a motor. In use, the motor drives the fan and air is drawn through the air inlet along an air flow path (which extends through the length of the handle 106). The air is optionally heated by a heater before exiting the hot air molding machine at the air outlet 110.

In another embodiment, the bases 53,54 may be provided with a channel therebetween that serves as an insulating cold wall cavity. In another preferred embodiment, the cavity 90 for reducing the interior cross-sectional area of the fitment may be continuous with the cold wall cavity between the bases 53, 54. This cold wall cavity serves to reduce the temperature of the base of the outer housing section 44 (which may be in contact with the user).

In another structural alternative, the cold wall may include a layer of separating material that covers the base and wall of the outer housing section 44 of the accessory, held at a predetermined distance from the base and wall of the outer housing section 44 by a minimum number of connecting ribs. The cold wall does not create a closed cavity, but forms a passage between the cold wall and the outer housing section 44 which may, in use, encourage air flow through the cold wall passage by the venturi effect.

The biasing action of the torsion spring 76 may be accomplished in a number of alternative ways, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art. For example, a Magnetic latch or force-bearing movable member (weighted moveable member) or integrated ball bearings in the stop device may be used.

The accessory may be made of any suitable heat resistant material and in the preferred embodiment the housing and movable member are made of glass filled nylon. The most preferred operating temperature of such accessories connected to the hot air styling apparatus is about 130 ℃.

In this embodiment of the accessory, two parallel movable members are described. Alternatively, one movable member or three or more movable members may be used within the outer housing section 44. An embodiment comprising one movable member will necessarily omit the center baffle and the center stationary projection. In alternative embodiments, a plurality of movable members are included, which may include multiple rows of center baffles (positioned to create air flow jets between the movable members). Furthermore, in alternative embodiments of the accessory, the movable member may be adapted to move in a hinging movement or a sliding movement.

In this embodiment of the attachment 10, as shown in the drawings, three rows of bristles 20 are shown on each movable member. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the number of bristle rows on each movable member is greater than three or less than three. In particular, an advantage found in an accessory without bristles is that the user may benefit from the hair smoothing effect of the air flow channel without the roughening effect of the bristles passing through the hair. Alternatively, the bristles 20 may be positioned on the outer housing section 44 instead of or in addition to the bristles 20 on each movable member. Moreover, embodiments having more than one movable member may not have bristles positioned on each movable member.

The invention is not limited to the detailed description given above. Many variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

Claims

1. An accessory for a hair styling appliance comprising:

a housing having an air inlet for receiving an air flow from a hair styling appliance;

two hair engagement members supported by the housing, the housing including an outer housing section and an inner housing section, with the protruding portion of the inner housing section being located between the hair engagement members;

a first air flow outlet between the outer housing section and the hair engagement member;

a second air flow outlet spaced from the first air flow outlet between the inner housing section and the hair engagement member; and

an internal air flow directing means positioned within the housing to direct air toward the first air flow outlet and the second air flow outlet, wherein each hair engagement member forms a respective first air outlet and a respective second air outlet with the housing.

2. The accessory of claim 1, wherein each of the first air flow outlet and the second air flow outlet is at least partially defined by a respective sidewall of the housing.

3. The accessory of claim 1, wherein the internal air flow directing means comprises a plurality of housing fins.

4. An accessory according to claim 3 wherein the internal air flow directing means comprises a plurality of housing fins connected to the housing.

5. The accessory of claim 4, wherein the plurality of housing tabs comprises:

a first series of housing fins positioned on the first sidewall of the housing and adjacent the first air flow outlet; and

a second series of housing fins is positioned on the second side wall of the housing adjacent the second air flow outlet.

6. The attachment of claim 5, wherein each flap in the first series of housing flaps is oriented generally perpendicular to an edge of a first sidewall of the housing defining the first air flow outlet; and

each vane in the second series of housing vanes is oriented generally perpendicular to an edge of a second side wall of the housing defining a second air flow outlet.

7. The accessory of claim 5, wherein the fins in the first and second series of housing fins are substantially evenly spaced apart.

8. An accessory according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the internal air flow directing means comprises a plurality of edge tabs connected to the hair engagement member.

9. The accessory of claim 8, wherein the plurality of edge tabs comprises:

a first series of edge tabs positioned on the first side of the hair engagement member and adjacent the first air flow outlet; and

a second series of edge tabs are positioned on the second side of the hair engagement member and adjacent the second air flow outlet.

10. The attachment of claim 9, wherein each tab of the first series of edge tabs is oriented generally perpendicular to an edge of the hair engagement member adjacent the first air flow outlet; and

each of the second series of edge tabs is oriented generally perpendicular to an edge of the hair engagement member adjacent the second air flow outlet.

11. The accessory of claim 9, wherein the tabs of the first and second series of edge tabs are substantially evenly spaced apart.

12. The accessory of claim 8, wherein the internal air flow directing means comprises a plurality of housing tabs connected to the housing, wherein the edge tabs and the housing tabs have similar positioning patterns such that the edge tabs and the housing tabs are sequentially aligned with each other.

13. An accessory according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the hair engagement member has an elongate form.

14. The accessory of claim 13, wherein the first air flow outlet and the second air flow outlet each extend substantially the length of the hair engagement member.

15. The accessory of claim 1, wherein the hair engagement members are arranged side-by-side.

16. The attachment of claim 15 wherein the internal air flow directing means further comprises a series of center baffles positioned between the hair engaging members and contacting the inner surface of the protruding portion.

17. The accessory of claim 16, wherein the series of center baffles extend parallel to an inner side of a first hair engaging member of the two hair engaging members and an inner side of a second hair engaging member of the two hair engaging members.

18. The attachment of claim 16 or 17, wherein each baffle of the series of central baffles has the shape of an open scoop adapted to divert a received air flow about 90 ° toward the tab outlet portion.

19. The accessory of claim 17, wherein the internal air flow directing means comprises a plurality of edge tabs connected to the hair engagement member, wherein a first series of internal edge tabs of the plurality of edge tabs are positioned on a side of the first hair engagement member proximate the protruding portion.

20. The attachment of claim 19, wherein a second series of inner edge tabs of the plurality of edge tabs are positioned on a side of the second hair engagement member proximate the projection.

21. The attachment of claim 20 wherein the baffles in the series of center baffles, the fins in the first and second series of inner edge fins have similar positioning patterns such that the baffles and fins are sequentially aligned with one another.