CN116133557A9

CN116133557A9 - Hair styling apparatus

Info

Publication number: CN116133557A9
Application number: CN202180058787.5A
Authority: CN
Inventors: A·沃森; E·希基; T·乔
Original assignee: Dyson Technology Ltd
Current assignee: Dyson Technology Ltd
Priority date: 2020-07-29
Filing date: 2021-07-21
Publication date: 2023-12-08
Also published as: GB2597676B; GB202011768D0; CN116133557A; GB2597676A; WO2022023708A1

Abstract

A hair styling apparatus is provided. The hair styling apparatus includes a sensor apparatus configured to generate a sensor output in accordance with at least one usage characteristic of the hair styling apparatus indicative of a current use of the hair styling apparatus. The hair styling apparatus includes a controller configured to receive the sensor output from the sensor apparatus and process the sensor output to obtain classification data using a classification algorithm configured to determine whether the hair styling apparatus is being used according to a first styling action or a second, different styling action based on at least one usage characteristic of the hair styling apparatus. The controller is configured to use the classification data to control the hair styling apparatus to perform an action.

Description

Hair styling apparatus

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to a hair styling apparatus. In particular, but not exclusively, the present disclosure relates to measures, including methods, apparatus and computer programs, for operating a hair styling apparatus.

Background

Hair styling apparatus, also known as hair styling appliances, are used to shape or style hair into a desired shape or style. In particular, heated hair styling apparatus utilize the action of heat, and optionally also mechanical means, to style hair in a desired manner.

One example of such a hair styling apparatus is a hair straightening apparatus (also known as a hair straightener or hair styling iron). Such hair styling apparatus typically comprise two articulated arms pivotally attached to each other at one end and to which one or more heatable plates are attached. In the case where both arms have heatable plates, the heatable plates are typically located on the inner opposite surfaces of the arms. The heatable plate has a hair-contactable surface that is operable to contact and apply heat to hair during use of the hair styling apparatus. The heatable plate (and hair-contactable surface) may be heated by one or more heating elements.

However, the flexibility and/or versatility of known hair styling apparatus is limited. This in turn limits the ability of known hair styling apparatus to achieve a desired hair style. For example, known hair styling devices typically release heat when in contact with a hair strand. This may be relatively inefficient and may cause damage to the hair. Furthermore, known hair styling apparatus generally rely on the user properly using the hair styling apparatus in order to achieve a desired hair style. For example, in some cases, too much or too little heat may be applied to the hair, and/or too much or too little clamping pressure. This may lead to thermal and/or mechanical hair damage and/or may prevent the desired hairstyle from being achieved. If the desired hair style is not achieved when the hair styling apparatus is first used, for example, due to improper or undesirable use of the hair styling apparatus, the user may repeat one or more times on the same portion of hair. In addition to increasing the risk of damaging the hair, such repetition requires additional time and/or energy consumption. In some cases, the desired hairstyle is not achieved even if repeated a number of times.

Accordingly, it is desirable to provide an improved hair styling apparatus and/or an improved method of operating a hair styling apparatus.

Disclosure of Invention

According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a hair styling apparatus comprising: a sensor device configured to generate a sensor output based on at least one usage characteristic of the hair styling device, the usage characteristic being indicative of a current use of the hair styling device; and a controller configured to: receiving a sensor output from a sensor device; processing the sensor output to obtain classification data using a classification algorithm configured to determine whether the hair styling apparatus is being used according to a first styling action or a second, different styling action based on at least one usage characteristic of the hair styling apparatus; and uses the classification data to control the hair styling apparatus to perform an action.

By using the sensor data as input to the classification algorithm, modeling behavior can be identified without requiring user input. Thus, the hair styling apparatus can autonomously identify how the user is using the hair styling apparatus and adjust itself accordingly. This allows for a more intelligent control of the hair styling apparatus. For example, one or more operational settings of the hair styling apparatus may be controlled in accordance with the identified behavior. This allows the setting of the hair styling apparatus to more closely correspond to how the user is attempting to use the hair styling apparatus. This may reduce the build time and/or increase the likelihood of achieving a desired build. Furthermore, this may reduce the likelihood of hair damage, for example, due to the user using incorrect and/or sub-optimal settings for a given styling action.

In an embodiment, the classification algorithm comprises a trained algorithm that has been trained to determine whether the hair styling apparatus is being used in accordance with the first styling action or the second styling action using the training data. The use of such a trained algorithm results in a more accurate and/or reliable classification of styling behavior than if the trained algorithm were not used. In an embodiment, the classification algorithm comprises a machine learning algorithm. Such machine learning algorithms may be improved by experience and/or training (e.g., to increase accuracy and/or reliability of classification).

In an embodiment, the hair styling apparatus comprises a machine learning agent comprising a classification algorithm. In this way, the sorting algorithm may be located on the hair styling apparatus. Performing the classification of styling actions on the hair styling device reduces latency compared to the case where the classification algorithm is not located on the hair styling device, as there is no need to send and/or receive data to/from another device. This enables classification data to be obtained more quickly, thereby reducing the time taken to take any corrective action, such as adjusting one or more operating settings of the hair styling apparatus. This in turn may reduce the likelihood of damage to the hair, for example, due to operating settings that do not conform to the intended use of the hair styling apparatus.

In an embodiment, the first styling action comprises a hair straightening action and the second styling action comprises a hair curling action. As such, the classification algorithm may be configured to use the sensor data to distinguish between straight hair and curly hair.

In an embodiment, the first styling behavior comprises a full styling behavior and the second styling behavior comprises a modifying behavior. In this way, the classification algorithm may be configured to use the sensor data to distinguish between full build and embellishment.

In an embodiment, the first styling action comprises a wet styling action and the second styling action comprises a dry styling action. As such, the classification algorithm may be configured to use the sensor data to distinguish wet hair styling from dry hair styling.

In an embodiment, the sensor device comprises an inertial measurement unit IMU. In some such embodiments, the at least one usage feature is indicative of movement of the hair styling apparatus.

In an embodiment, the hair styling apparatus comprises a hair contacting element comprising opposed first and second hair contactable surfaces, the hair contacting element being movable between an open configuration and a closed configuration. In some such embodiments, at least one usage feature indicates whether the hair contacting element is in an open configuration or a closed configuration.

In an embodiment, the sensor device comprises a hall effect sensor.

In an embodiment, the controller is configured to use the sensor output to modify the classification algorithm, e.g., the classification algorithm may be trained and/or further trained using the sensor output. Modifying the classification algorithm allows for improved accuracy and/or reliability of the algorithm by experience and/or using more training data. That is, the confidence of the classification data can be improved. In addition, modifying the classification algorithm allows the classification algorithm to fit the user. For example, an initial classification algorithm may be provided on the hair styling apparatus, but the initial classification algorithm does not take into account the specific behavior and/or activity of a given user. For example, a user may move the hair contacting elements in a particular manner that is different from other users. By using the sensor output as training data to dynamically retrain the classification algorithm, the classification algorithm can more reliably determine which styling behavior the user is attempting to use.

In an embodiment, a hair styling apparatus includes a heating element operable to apply heat to hair. In such embodiments, the controller is configured to control the heating element based on the classification data. This enables the thermal setting of the hair styling apparatus to more closely correspond to the styling behaviour that the user wants to use. In this way, a desired styling may be achieved while reducing the likelihood of hair damage and/or reducing styling time.

In an embodiment, the controller is configured to cause the user interface to provide an output based on the classification data. This may prompt the user to take corrective action, such as changing an operational setting.

In an embodiment, the controller is configured to store the classification data in the memory. In this way, the classification data may be used at a later time, for example during a subsequent use of the hair styling apparatus.

In an embodiment, the controller is configured to output the classification data for transmission to the remote device.

In an embodiment, the controller is configured to: receiving training data from a remote device; and modifies the classification algorithm using the received training data. Modifying the classification algorithm using training data from a remote device may increase the accuracy and/or reliability of the classification algorithm compared to the case where such training data is not used.

In an embodiment, the classification algorithm comprises a random forest algorithm.

In an embodiment, the controller is configured to use one or more contextual features as input to a classification algorithm to obtain classification data. Using contextual features as inputs to the classification algorithm increases the confidence of the classification data.

In an embodiment, the one or more contextual characteristics are indicative of previous uses and/or user preferences of the hair styling apparatus.

In an embodiment, the hair styling apparatus comprises a hair straightening apparatus and/or a hair curling apparatus.

According to one aspect of the present invention there is provided a method for operating a hair styling apparatus comprising: a sensor device configured to generate a sensor output based on at least one usage characteristic of the hair styling device, the usage characteristic being indicative of a current use of the hair styling device; the method comprises the following steps: receiving a sensor output from a sensor device; processing the sensor output to obtain classification data using a classification algorithm configured to determine whether the hair styling apparatus is being used according to a first styling action or a second, different styling action based on at least one usage characteristic of the hair styling apparatus; and uses the classification data to control the hair styling apparatus to perform an action.

According to one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a computer program comprising a set of instructions which, when executed by a computerized device, cause the computerized device to perform a method of operating a hair styling apparatus, the hair styling apparatus comprising: a sensor device configured to generate a sensor output based on at least one usage characteristic of the hair styling device, the usage characteristic being indicative of a current use of the hair styling device; the method comprises the following steps: receiving a sensor output from a sensor device; processing the sensor output to obtain classification data using a classification algorithm configured to determine whether the hair styling apparatus is being used according to a first styling action or a second, different styling action based on at least one usage characteristic of the hair styling apparatus; and uses the classification data to control the hair styling apparatus to perform an action.

It will of course be appreciated that features described in relation to one aspect of the invention may be incorporated into other aspects of the invention. For example, the method of the present invention may incorporate any of the features described with reference to the apparatus of the present invention, and vice versa.

Drawings

Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIGS. 1A and 1B are perspective views of a hair styling apparatus according to embodiments;

fig. 2 is a schematic view of a hair styling apparatus according to an embodiment;

fig. 3 is a flowchart illustrating a method of operating a hair styling apparatus according to an embodiment;

fig. 4 is a flowchart illustrating a method of operating a hair styling apparatus according to an embodiment;

fig. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a method of operating a hair styling apparatus according to an embodiment;

fig. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a method of operating a hair styling apparatus according to an embodiment;

fig. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a method of operating a hair styling apparatus according to an embodiment;

fig. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a method of operating a hair styling apparatus according to an embodiment;

fig. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a method of operating a hair styling apparatus according to an embodiment;

fig. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a method of operating a hair styling apparatus according to an embodiment;

Fig. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a method of operating a hair styling apparatus according to an embodiment;

fig. 12 is a flowchart illustrating a method of operating a hair styling apparatus according to an embodiment; and

fig. 13 is a flowchart illustrating a method of operating a hair styling apparatus according to an embodiment.

Detailed Description

Fig. 1A and 1B illustrate perspective views of a hair styling apparatus 100 according to an embodiment. The hair styling apparatus 100 and/or components thereof may be used to implement the methods described herein. In the embodiment shown in fig. 1A and 1B, hair styling apparatus 100 includes a hair straightener.

The hair styling apparatus 100 includes a first arm 110 and a second arm 120 that are connected together at one end by a hinge 130. Each arm 110, 120 includes a heatable plate 115, 125. One or both of the heatable plates 115, 125 are heatable, for example by a heating element (not shown). In some embodiments, one or both of the heatable plates 115, 125 comprises resistive plates. Such a resistor plate may be directly heated, e.g. without the need for a separate heating element. Each heatable plate 115, 125 includes a hair contactable surface 116, 126. The hair contactable surfaces 116, 126 are arranged such that they face each other. The arms 110, 120 are hinged such that they can be moved between an open position (as shown in fig. 1A) and a closed position (as shown in fig. 1B). In the closed position, the hair-contactable surfaces 116, 126 are adjacent to one another such that hair to be styled may be held between the hair-contactable surfaces 116, 126. In some embodiments, hair-contactable surfaces 116, 126 come into contact when arms 110, 120 are in the closed position. In other embodiments, hair contactable surfaces 116, 126 do not contact.

The user may move the arms 110, 120 between an open position and a closed position. For example, when using hair styling apparatus 100, a user presses arms 110, 120 together (to style hair between hair-contacting surfaces 116, 126), and when styling is complete, releases arms 110, 120 and/or pulls arms 110, 120 apart. In an embodiment, hair styling apparatus 100 includes biasing means (not shown), such as one or more springs and/or magnets. The biasing means urges the arms 110, 120 towards the open position such that the arms 110, 120 revert to the open position when the user does not press the arms 110, 120 together.

In an alternative embodiment, the arms 110, 120 cannot pivot about the hinge 130. For example, the arms 110, 120 may be substantially parallel to one another. In either case, the user may press the arms 110, 120 together to style the hair.

In the embodiment shown in fig. 1A and 1B, hair styling apparatus 100 comprises a cordless hair styling apparatus. For example, hair styling apparatus 100 may be powered by rechargeable batteries. In alternative embodiments, hair styling apparatus 100 is externally powered, for example via one or more external power cords (not shown).

Fig. 2 shows a schematic block diagram of a hair styling apparatus 100 according to an embodiment.

The hair styling apparatus 100 includes a controller 210. The controller 210 is operable to perform various data processing and/or control functions, according to embodiments, as will be described in more detail below. The controller 210 may include one or more components. The one or more components may be implemented in hardware and/or software. The one or more components may be co-located in hair styling apparatus 100 or may be located remotely from each other. The controller 210 may be implemented as one or more software functions and/or hardware modules. In an embodiment, the controller 210 includes one or more processors configured to process instructions and/or data. Operations performed by one or more processors may be performed by hardware and/or software. The controller 210 may be used to implement the methods described herein. In an embodiment, controller 210 is operable to output control signals for controlling one or more components of hair styling apparatus 100.

In an embodiment, hair styling apparatus 100 includes heating element 220. The heating element 220 is operable, for example, to convert electrical energy into heat. Heating element 220 is configured such that hair is heated by hair styling apparatus 100. The controller 210 is operable to control the heating element 220. For example, the controller 210 may be operable to apply energy (e.g., electrical energy) to the heating element 220, such as via one or more control signals generated by the controller 210.

In an embodiment, the hair styling apparatus includes a heatable hair contacting element 225. Hair contacting elements 225 may be heated by heating element 220. In alternative embodiments, hair contacting elements 225 may be heated directly, i.e., without the need for a separate heating element 220. In an embodiment, hair contacting elements 225 include one or more heatable plates. For example, the hair contacting element 225 may include one or more of the heatable plates 115, 125 described above with reference to fig. 1A and 1B. The hair contacting elements 225 may include one or more hair-contactable surfaces, such as hair-contactable surfaces 116, 126 described above. The hair contacting elements 225 are operable to apply heat to hair via one or more of the hair-contactable surfaces 116, 126. In this manner, the controller 210 controls the heating of the hair contacting elements 225, such as by controlling the heating element 220, which causes heat to be transferred to hair in contact with one or more hair-contactable surfaces 116, 126 of the hair contacting elements 225.

In an embodiment, hair contacting element 225 includes opposing first and second hair-contactable surfaces 116, 126. The opposing first and second hair-contactable surfaces 116, 126 are arranged to heat hair engaged therebetween. In an embodiment, hair contacting elements 225 are operable to apply heat to hair by movement of hair contacting elements 225 along the hair bundle (e.g., from a first end of the hair bundle toward a second end of the hair bundle). The movement of hair contacting elements 225 along the hair bundle may be referred to as a "stroke". In an alternative embodiment, hair contacting elements 225 comprise a single hair-contactable surface. The hair contacting elements 225 may include movable arms, such as the first arm 110 and the second arm 120 described above with reference to fig. 1A and 1B.

In an embodiment, hair styling apparatus 100 includes a closure mechanism 227. The closure mechanism 227 is operable to close and/or open the hair contacting elements 225. The closure mechanism 227 may comprise an electromechanical closure mechanism. The closure mechanism 227 is operable to receive a control signal from the controller 210, thereby allowing the controller 210 to control the closure mechanism 227. In embodiments where the hair contacting element 225 includes opposed first and second hair-contacting surfaces 116, 126 arranged to receive hair therein, the closure mechanism 227 is operable to adjust the distance between the first and second hair-contacting surfaces 116, 126. This will be described in more detail below.

In an embodiment, hair styling apparatus 100 includes sensor apparatus 230. The sensor device 230 includes one or more sensors. Examples of such sensors include, but are not limited to, IMUs, hall effect sensors, temperature sensors, power sensors, proximity sensors, motion sensors, gyroscopes, accelerometers, magnetometers, and the like. In an embodiment, the sensor device 230 includes one or more processors. The controller 210 is operable to receive signals (e.g., sensor outputs) from the sensor device 230. Sensor output from sensor apparatus 230 may be used to control hair styling apparatus 100. In an embodiment, the controller 210 is operable to control the sensor device 230.

In the embodiment shown in fig. 2, the sensor device 230 includes an IMU 235. In such embodiments, the controller 210 is operable to receive signals from the IMU 235 indicative of the movement of the hair styling apparatus 100. In an embodiment, IMU 235 includes an accelerometer, a gyroscope, and a magnetometer. Accelerometers, gyroscopes and magnetometers all have three axes, or degrees of freedom (x, y, z). Thus, the IMU 235 may include a 9-axis IMU. In an alternative embodiment, the IMU 235 includes accelerometers and gyroscopes, but does not include magnetometers. In such an embodiment, the IMU 235 comprises a 6-axis IMU. Due to the increased degrees of freedom, a 9-axis IMU may produce more accurate measurements than a 6-axis IMU. However, in some cases, a 6-axis IMU may be preferred over a 9-axis IMU. For example, some hair styling apparatus may cause and/or encounter magnetic interference during use. This may be a particular consideration for wireless hair styling apparatus including an on-board power supply and hair styling apparatus including a heating element. Heating, magnetic and/or inductive and/or other magnetic disturbances on the device can affect the behavior of the magnetometer. Thus, in some cases, a 6-axis IMU is more reliable and/or more accurate than a 9-axis IMU. The IMU is configured to output data indicative of accelerometer and gyroscope signals (and magnetometer signals in some embodiments). In alternative embodiments, the IMU 235 may include an accelerometer, but not a gyroscope or magnetometer. In such an embodiment, the IMU 235 comprises a 3-axis IMU.

In an embodiment, hair styling apparatus 100 includes a user interface 240. For example, the user interface 240 may include an audio and/or visual interface. In an embodiment, the user interface 240 includes a display (e.g., a touch screen display). In an embodiment, the user interface 240 includes an audio output device, such as a speaker. In an embodiment, the user interface 240 includes a haptic feedback generator configured to provide haptic feedback to a user. The controller 210 is operable to control the user interface 240, for example to cause the user interface 240 to provide output to a user. In some embodiments, the controller 210 is operable to receive data via the user interface 240, for example, based on user input.

Hair styling apparatus 100 also includes a memory 250. According to an embodiment, the memory 250 is operable to store various data. The memory may include at least one volatile memory, at least one non-volatile memory, and/or at least one data storage unit. The volatile memory, nonvolatile memory, and/or data storage unit may be configured to store computer readable information and/or instructions for use/execution by the controller 210.

In alternative embodiments, hair styling apparatus 100 may include more, fewer, and/or different components. In particular, in some embodiments, at least some of the components of hair styling apparatus 100 shown in fig. 1A, 1B and/or 2 may be omitted (e.g., may not be required). For example, in some embodiments, at least one of the heating element 220, the hair contacting element 225, the closure mechanism 227, the sensor device 230, the user interface 240, and the memory 250 may be omitted. In some embodiments, hair styling apparatus 100 does not include movable (e.g., pivotable) arms 110, 120.

Fig. 3 illustrates a method 300 of operating a hair styling apparatus in accordance with an embodiment. Method 300 may be used to operate hair styling apparatus 100 described above with reference to fig. 1A, 1B and 2. In the embodiment of fig. 3, hair styling apparatus 100 includes a heatable hair contacting element 225 having hair-contactable surfaces 116, 126. The hair contacting elements 225 are operable to apply heat to the strands of hair of the user via the hair-contactable surfaces 116, 126. In an embodiment, the method 300 is performed at least in part by the controller 210.

In step 310, it is determined that hair contacting elements 225 are moving along the hair strand from a first end of the hair strand toward a second end of the hair strand.

In step 320, based on the determination, the heating element 220 is controlled such that the operating temperature of the hair contacting element 225 changes as the hair contacting element 225 moves along the hair bundle from the first end of the hair bundle to the second end of the hair bundle.

In an embodiment, the first end comprises a root end of a hair strand and the second end comprises a tip end of the hair strand. The first end may be located at a midpoint of the root or bundle of hair. The second end may similarly be located at a mid-point of the hair tip or hair bundle. The term "root end" as used herein refers to the end of the hair strand closest to the root. The term "hair tip" end refers to the end of the hair strand closest to the tip (e.g., furthest from the root). In some examples, the hair strands extend all the way between the root (e.g., from the user's head) and the tip. However, in other examples, the hair strands extend between a portion of the root and the tip. In such examples, the root end of the hair strand may be located at a point that is not at the actual root of the hair, and/or the tip end of the hair strand may be located at a point that is not at the actual end of the hair.

Accordingly, the operating temperature of hair contacting element 225 changes as hair contacting element 225 moves along the hair bundle. By adjusting and/or regulating the heat transfer along the hair strand to the hair, the heat distribution on the hair strand can be controlled. The temperature of the hair is higher at the root end of the hair bundle than at the tip end. However, in order to style (e.g., straighten) in a desired manner, the hair at the tip end of the hair may need to apply more heat than the hair at the root end. The hair at the tip end is older than the hair at the root end, and the older hair may require more heat to style in a desired manner. Thus, the use of a constant operating temperature of the hair contacting elements 225 along the hair bundle may result in thermal damage to the hair at the root end of the hair bundle (due to too much heat being transferred at the root end) and/or may prevent the desired hair style (due to too little heat being transferred at the tip end). Providing an increased heat transfer profile from the root end to the tip end reduces the likelihood of thermal damage (particularly to younger hair at the root end), while ensuring that a sufficiently high temperature is transferred to the hair at the tip end to achieve a desired styling. Such a heat transfer profile may be referred to as a "root-to-tip" heat transfer profile. In an embodiment, the operating temperature of hair contacting elements 225 is increased as hair contacting elements 225 are moved along the hair bundle. In an alternative embodiment, the operating temperature of hair contacting elements 225 is reduced as hair contacting elements 225 are moved along the hair bundle.

In an embodiment, hair styling apparatus 100 includes a sensor apparatus 230 configured to generate a sensor output based on movement of hair contacting elements 225. The sensor output is processed to determine that hair contacting element 225 is moving along the hair bundle. As such, in some embodiments, hair contacting elements 225 may be determined to be moving along the hair bundle without user input and/or intervention. In an embodiment, the sensor device 230 includes an IMU 235. One or more signals from IMU 235 may be processed to determine that hair contacting elements 225 are moving along the hair bundle. Additionally or alternatively, the sensor device 230 may include a hall effect sensor. The hall-effect sensor may generate a sensor output depending on whether the hair contact member 225 is in an open configuration (e.g., with the arms 110, 120 open) or a closed configuration (e.g., with the arms 110, 120 closed). In this way, closure of the hair contacting element 225 may be sensed and used to determine that the hair contacting element 225 is moving along the hair bundle. In an alternative embodiment, the determination of step 310 is performed without the use of a sensor device. For example, the determination may be made based on user input, such as via a user interface, one or more buttons on hair styling apparatus 100, and the like.

In an embodiment, hair styling apparatus 100 includes heating element 220 operable to heat hair contacting element 225. In such embodiments, controlling heating of hair contacting elements 225 includes controlling heating elements 220.

In an embodiment, based on the sensor output, a displacement of hair contacting element 225 from a first end of the hair bundle is determined. In such embodiments, heating of hair contacting elements 225 (e.g., control of heating elements 220) is based on the determined displacement. The displacement may be determined, for example, based on signals received from the IMU 235. In other examples, the beginning of the stroke is identified (e.g., when the hair contacting element 225 is at the root end of the hair bundle), and the displacement is determined based on the time elapsed from the beginning of the stroke. For example, the beginning of a stroke may be identified based on the closure of the plates of hair contacting elements 225. Controlling the heating of hair contacting elements 225 based on the determined displacement enables finer control of the heat distribution along the hair strand.

In an embodiment, heating of hair contacting elements 225 is controlled based on a predetermined threshold operating temperature of hair contacting elements 225. The predetermined threshold operating temperature is dependent upon the determined displacement of the hair contacting element 225 from the first end (e.g., the root end) of the hair bundle. For example, heating of hair contacting elements 225 may be controlled such that the operating temperature of hair contacting elements 225 remains above an associated predetermined threshold operating temperature. In an embodiment, a first predetermined threshold operating temperature is for a first end of the hair strand and a second predetermined threshold operating temperature is for a second end of the hair strand, the second predetermined threshold operating temperature being higher than the first predetermined threshold operating temperature. In some embodiments, a third predetermined threshold operating temperature is used for a location on the hair strand between the first end and the second end. The third predetermined threshold operating temperature may be between the first and second predetermined threshold operating temperatures.

In an embodiment, the speed of hair contacting elements 225 is determined based on the sensor output. For example, the velocity may be determined by processing one or more signals from the IMU 235. In such embodiments, heating of hair contacting elements 225 is controlled based on the determined speed. In an embodiment, the heating of hair contacting elements 225 is controlled such that the operating temperature of hair contacting elements 225 changes (e.g., increases) at a rate that depends on the determined speed. In other words, the rate of change of the temperature of hair contacting elements 225 may depend on the speed at which hair contacting elements 225 are moved. For example, if hair contacting elements 225 are determined to move relatively quickly, the rate of temperature increase (or "temperature slope") may be relatively steep, while if hair contacting elements 225 are determined to move relatively slowly, the rate of temperature increase may be relatively gentle. This allows for finer control over the heat distribution along the hair strand and/or enables the hair styling apparatus 100 to adapt to the user's behavior. In an embodiment, the heat transfer profile along the hair strand depends on the determined speed.

In an embodiment, a speed and/or position estimation algorithm is used to process the sensor output. In an embodiment, the velocity and/or position estimation algorithm is configured to fuse accelerometer and gyroscope signals from the IMU. For example, determining that hair contacting element 225 is moving along the hair bundle, determining the displacement of hair contacting element 225 from the first end, and/or determining the speed of hair contacting element 225 may be performed using a speed and/or position estimation algorithm. In embodiments using a 9-axis IMU, the velocity and/or position estimation algorithm may use signals from magnetometers in addition to accelerometer and gyroscope signals to determine initial conditions. In an embodiment, the speed and/or position algorithm comprises a Madgwick filter. The speed and/or position estimation algorithm may be implemented using software or hardware, such as an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), or may be implemented using a combination of hardware and software. Speed and/or position estimation algorithms may be used in the various methods described herein.

IMUs may be subject to noise, bias and/or drift, which may result in inaccurate calculations unless properly corrected. For example, the gyroscope signal may drift over time, the accelerometer may be biased by gravity, and both the gyroscope and accelerometer signals may be affected by noise. In an embodiment, filtering (e.g., high pass and/or low pass and/or median filters) is used to remove at least some noise in the IMU signal. In an embodiment, a Madgwick filter is used to correct for gyroscope drift by removing the magnitude of the gyroscope measurement error in the direction of the estimated error or steepest direction, while fusing the accelerometer and gyroscope signals. The output of the Madgwick filter is the world reference direction quaternion, or Madgwick quaternion, which provides orientation to the device. This quaternion is used to rotate the acceleration signal to the earth reference frame. Once the acceleration rotates, the proportion of attraction force on each axis is calculated and removed (i.e., attraction force is compensated). This provides a linear acceleration which can be integrated to obtain a velocity which can then be integrated to obtain a position and/or displacement. Each time the signal is integrated, the residual error caused by such bias and/or drift increases. Thus, such errors may be particularly problematic for speed and/or position measurements. The speed drift is compensated for before integrating the speed to obtain the position, which improves the accuracy of the measurement. The speed and/or position measurements may include individual measurements for all 3 axes, or the directional components may be combined to provide a speed magnitude and/or position magnitude.

In other embodiments, alternative filters and/or algorithms may be used instead of or in addition to the Madgwick filter. Examples of such filters include a kalman filter, an extended kalman filter, and/or a complementary filter such as a mahonyl filter. However, the Madgwick filter is less computationally expensive than other filters, while achieving comparable or in some cases better levels of accuracy. This allows the Madgwick filter to run on the hair styling apparatus 100 itself without the need for external processing means. This reduces latency compared to the case where processing is performed on externally processed data, as the need to transfer data between devices is avoided.

In an embodiment, the velocity may be determined by processing one or more signals from the 3-axis IMU. As described above, in such embodiments, the heating of hair contacting elements 225 is controlled based on the determined speed. In an embodiment, the heating of hair contacting elements 225 is controlled such that the operating temperature of hair contacting elements 225 changes (e.g., increases) at a rate that depends on the determined speed. In other words, the rate of change of the temperature of hair contacting elements 225 may depend on the speed at which hair contacting elements 225 are moved. For example, if hair contacting elements 225 are determined to move relatively quickly, the rate of temperature increase (or "temperature slope") may be relatively steep, while if hair contacting elements 225 are determined to move relatively slowly, the rate of temperature increase may be relatively gentle. This allows for finer control over the heat distribution along the hair strand and/or enables the hair styling apparatus 100 to accommodate the behavior of the user. In an embodiment, the heat transfer profile along the hair strand depends on the determined speed.

In an embodiment, sensor output is processed using a speed and/or position estimation algorithm, such as a machine learning model. In an embodiment, a 3-axis IMU including an accelerometer is used in conjunction with a machine learning model. For example, determining that hair contacting elements 225 are moving along the hair bundle, determining the displacement of hair contacting elements 225 from the first end, and/or determining the speed of hair contacting elements 225 may be performed using a machine learning model.

In embodiments using a 3-axis IMU, the machine learning model may use signals from the 3-axis IMU to determine the initial state. In an embodiment, the machine learning model has been trained using generalized nonlinear regression algorithms (e.g., gaussian kernel regression and neural networks). Training data for the machine learning model uses previously used 3-axis IMU data from the hair styling apparatus 100, as well as target data from ground truth sources (e.g., vicon motion capture system). It should be appreciated that alternative systems may be used to capture target data from ground truth sources. The machine learning model may be implemented using software or hardware, such as an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), or may be implemented using a combination of hardware and software. Machine learning models may be used in the various methods described herein.

As described above, IMUs (e.g., 3-axis IMUs) may be subject to noise, offset, and/or drift, which may result in inaccurate calculations unless properly corrected. For example, an accelerometer may be biased by gravity and an accelerometer signal may be affected by noise. In an embodiment, filtering (e.g., high pass and/or low pass and/or median filters) is used to remove at least some noise in the accelerometer signal.

In an embodiment, a low pass filter is applied to each signal output of the 3-axis IMU to remove noise. Each signal is then combined into a single signal output. The proportion of the force of gravity on the individual signal outputs is then calculated and subtracted from the signal outputs to give the acceleration magnitude.

The previously trained machine learning model is then applied to the acceleration magnitude.

The machine learning model described above is used to correct for noise, bias, and drift, such as speed drift, because it simultaneously converts acceleration magnitude to speed magnitude by using the machine learning model trained as described above. In an embodiment, the machine learning model is trained with speed magnitude ground truth data and motion acceleration magnitude training data provided in a previous use of the hair styling apparatus and from a ground truth source (e.g., vicon motion capture system).

In an embodiment, a sliding window algorithm is used to generate input data for the machine learning model, which in a preferred embodiment consists of twenty sample points simultaneously. In so doing, the machine learning model compensates for drift for the 20 th sample of computing speed, which has taken into account the first 19 samples of motion acceleration magnitude input data and this sample. However, it should be appreciated that a different number of sampling points may be used as input data for the machine learning model. In this regard, the machine learning model may correct and/or compensate for noise, bias, and/or drift associated with the 3-axis IMU.

In an alternative embodiment, a low pass filter is applied to each signal output of the 3-axis IMU. Then, the three signal outputs are processed separately. The ratio of the forces on each signal is then calculated and subtracted from each signal output to give three acceleration values (acceleration values for each axis). The previously trained machine learning model as described above is then applied to each acceleration magnitude separately. Similarly, a sliding window algorithm may be applied to generate inputs to the machine learning model. In other words, the machine learning model and the sliding window algorithm may be applied to each axis separately.

In an embodiment, the velocity is integrated to obtain the position and/or displacement. Since the drift has been compensated for in the calculated velocity, the position and/or displacement can be determined more accurately.

Thus, a machine learning model incorporating a 3-axis IMU may be used to compensate for speed drift and determine the speed, position and/or displacement of the hair styling apparatus.

In an embodiment, causing the operating temperature to change (e.g., increase) includes adjusting (e.g., increasing) an amount of energy used to heat the hair contacting elements 225 as the hair contacting elements 225 move along the hair bundle from a first end of the hair bundle to a second end of the hair bundle. For example, the amount of energy applied to the heating element 220 may be adjusted as the hair contacting elements 225 move along the hair strand. Thus, in such embodiments, both the operating temperature of hair contacting element 225 and the amount of energy applied to heating element 220 may be increased as hair contacting element 225 is moved along the hair bundle. In an alternative embodiment, the amount of energy used to heat hair contacting elements 225 does not increase as hair contacting elements 225 move along the hair bundle. For example, the amount of energy used to heat hair contacting elements 225 may be constant.

In an embodiment, as the hair contacting element 225 moves along the hair bundle from the root end to the tip end, the operating temperature of the hair contacting element 225 is increased at a predetermined rate. The predetermined rate of increase may be based on a heat transfer profile along the hair strand. In some embodiments, the predetermined rate of increase is dependent on the speed of hair contacting elements 225. The predetermined rate of increase may depend on other factors including, but not limited to, the type of hair being styled, whether the hair is wet or dry, the length of the hair strands, previous use of the hair styling apparatus, user preferences, and the like. In an embodiment, the predetermined rate of increase is dependent on the condition of the hair strand, e.g. defined by one or more hair damage parameters. This will be described in more detail below.

In an embodiment, the heating of hair contacting element 225 is controlled such that the operating temperature of hair contacting element 225 is between 40 and 80 degrees higher when hair contacting element 225 is at the second end (e.g., the hair tip end) than when hair contacting element 225 is at the first end (e.g., the hair root end). For example, the operating temperature of the hair contacting element 225 when at the second end may be 50 to 70 degrees higher, such as 60 degrees higher, than the operating temperature of the hair contacting element 225 when at the first end. In some examples, the operating temperature when the hair contacting element 225 is at the first end is 120 ℃, and the operating temperature when the hair contacting element 225 is at the second end is 180 ℃. This operating temperature differential between the first and second ends enables the entire hair bundle to achieve a desired styling (e.g., straightened or curled), thereby reducing styling time while reducing the likelihood of thermal damage to the hair. In other embodiments, the difference between the operating temperatures of the first and second ends may have other values.

In an embodiment, method 300 includes determining whether hair styling apparatus 100 is to be used in accordance with a first styling action or a second styling action. Heating element 220 is controlled according to whether hair styling apparatus 100 is used according to the first styling action or the second styling action. In some such embodiments, heating of hair contacting elements 225 is controlled such that the operating temperature of hair contacting elements 225 varies at a rate that depends on whether hair styling apparatus 100 is to be used in accordance with a first styling action or a second styling action. For example, a first predetermined rate of increase may be used for direct release, while a second, different predetermined rate of increase may be used for curling behaviour. In this way, different temperature transfer curves can be used for different activities. This enables the same hair styling apparatus 100 to achieve different styling, thereby increasing the versatility of the hair styling apparatus 100 while reducing the likelihood of thermal damage and reducing styling time. In an embodiment, classification algorithms and sensor data are used to identify styling behavior, as will be described in more detail below. In an alternative embodiment, styling behavior is identified based on user input. In alternative embodiments, no particular styling behavior is identified. For example, the same temperature transfer curve (which may vary along the hair strand) may be used regardless of styling behavior.

In alternative embodiments, such as where hair styling apparatus 100 does not include heating element 220, heating of hair contacting elements 225 may be performed directly, such as by applying energy to hair contacting elements 225 themselves. In either case, the heating of hair contacting elements 225 is controlled such that the operating temperature of hair contacting elements 225 varies along the hair bundle.

Fig. 4 illustrates a method 400 of operating a hair styling apparatus in accordance with an embodiment. Method 400 may be used to operate hair styling apparatus 100 described above with reference to fig. 1A, 1B and 2. In the embodiment of fig. 4, hair styling apparatus 100 includes a heatable hair contacting element 225 having hair-contactable surfaces 116, 126. The hair contacting elements 225 are operable to apply heat to the hair bundle via the hair-contactable surface by movement of the hair contacting elements 225 along the hair bundle between the first end and the second end of the hair bundle. In these embodiments, hair styling apparatus 100 also includes a sensor apparatus 230 configured to generate a sensor output indicative of the current use of hair styling apparatus 100. In an embodiment, the method 400 is performed at least in part by the controller 210.

In step 410, a sensor output is received from the sensor device 230.

In step 420, based on the sensor output, it is determined that hair contacting elements 225 are located at a first end of the hair bundle or a second end of the hair bundle.

In step 430, control performs an action based on the determination by hair styling apparatus 100.

The beginning of the stroke is detected by determining that hair contacting element 225 is at a first end of the hair bundle (e.g., the root end of the hair bundle). Similarly, by determining that hair contacting element 225 is at a second end of the hair bundle (e.g., the hair tip of the hair bundle), the end of the stroke is detected. In this manner, the boundaries (i.e., start and end points) of the stroke are identified by the hair styling apparatus 100 and used to control the hair styling apparatus 100. This enables finer and/or more intelligent control of the hair styling apparatus 100 than if no travel boundaries were identified.

The first end may be located at a midpoint of the root or bundle of hair. The second end may similarly be located at a mid-point of the hair tip or hair bundle. In an embodiment, the first end comprises a root end of a hair strand and the second end comprises a tip end of the hair strand.

In an embodiment, heating of hair contacting elements 225 is controlled based on the determination performed in step 420. For example, where hair styling apparatus 100 includes heating element 220, heating element 220 may be controlled based on the determination performed in step 420. As such, method 400 may include controlling heating element 220 based on a determination that hair contacting element 225 is positioned at a first end of the hair bundle or a second end of the hair bundle. In alternative embodiments, other components and/or functions of hair styling apparatus 100 may be controlled based on the determination performed in step 420.

In an embodiment, in response to determining that hair contacting elements 225 are located at a first (e.g., root) end of the hair bundle, an amount of energy (e.g., an amount of energy applied to heating element 220) for heating hair contacting elements 225 is increased. In response to determining that hair contacting elements 225 are positioned at the second (e.g., hair tip) end of the hair bundle, the amount of energy used to heat hair contacting elements 225 is reduced. Accordingly, the amount of energy used to heat hair contacting elements 225 may increase at the beginning of a stroke (thereby causing hair in the hair bundle to be heated) and may decrease at the end of a stroke (when hair heating is no longer performed). This reduces power consumption compared to the case where a constant amount of energy is used to heat hair contacting elements 225 throughout the use of hair styling apparatus 100. Controlling the heating of hair contacting elements 225 in this manner allows for a predetermined temperature profile (e.g., temperature ramp) to be applied along the hair strand. In an embodiment, the amount of energy used to heat hair contacting elements 225 increases at a predetermined rate as hair contacting elements 225 move along the hair bundle. In alternative embodiments, the amount of energy used to heat hair contacting elements 225 and/or the operating temperature of hair contacting elements 225 is constant along the hair bundle. In such alternative embodiments, the amount of energy used to heat hair contacting elements 225 is reduced at the end of the stroke (when hair contacting elements 225 are determined to be at the second end of the hair bundle), thereby reducing power consumption.

In an embodiment, the sensor output is indicative of a usage characteristic of the hair styling apparatus 100. The usage characteristics are indicative of the current use of the hair styling apparatus 100. The usage feature may be a time-varying feature. In an embodiment, the movement of hair contacting elements 225 is indicated using a feature. In an embodiment, the usage characteristics include a speed of hair contacting element 225 (e.g., as hair contacting element 225 moves along the hair bundle). As such, the determination of hair contacting elements 225 at the first end or the second end of the hair bundle may be based on the speed of hair contacting elements 225. For example, the speed of hair contacting elements 225 may be lower at the ends of the hair bundle than when hair contacting elements 225 are moved along the hair bundle. In an embodiment, a feature is used to indicate whether hair contacting element 225 is in motion.

In an embodiment, the usage feature includes a position of hair contacting element 225, such as displacement from a first end of the hair bundle. As such, the determination of hair contacting elements 225 at the first end or the second end of the hair bundle may be based on the determined position of hair contacting elements 225. This may be calculated, for example, based on signals received from IMU 235. The first location may be associated with a first end of the hair strand and the second location may be associated with a second end. In some embodiments, the location is defined as coordinates in three-dimensional space. In other embodiments, the location is defined as a one-dimensional value, such as a distance from a known or predetermined location.

In an embodiment, hair contacting elements 225 may be movable between an open configuration and a closed configuration. In such embodiments, the use feature indicates whether hair contacting elements 225 are in an open configuration or a closed configuration. In an embodiment, the sensor device 230 comprises a hall effect sensor. In this manner, the determination that hair contacting elements 225 are positioned at the first end or the second end of the hair bundle may be based on movement of hair contacting elements 225 between the open configuration and the closed configuration. For example, hair contacting elements 225 may be moved from an open configuration to a closed configuration when hair contacting elements 225 are positioned at the root end of the hair bundle (e.g., at the beginning of a stroke), and hair contacting elements 225 are moved from the closed configuration to the open configuration when hair contacting elements 225 are positioned at the tip end of the hair bundle (e.g., at the end of a stroke). Hair styling apparatus 100 may thus detect the beginning and/or end of a stroke without requiring user input.

In an embodiment, the feature is used to indicate movement of the hair contacting elements 225, such as where the sensor device 230 includes an IMU 235. In some such embodiments, the sensor output is processed using a velocity and/or position estimation algorithm (e.g., including a Madgwick filter and/or a machine learning model). This is described in more detail with reference to fig. 3 above.

In an embodiment, hair contacting element 225 is determined to move away from a first end of the hair bundle toward a second end of the hair bundle. Such a determination may be performed, for example, based on signals received from IMU 235. Heating of hair contacting elements 225 may be controlled based on such a determination. For example, as the hair contacting elements 225 move along the hair strands, the heating of the hair contacting elements 225 may be controlled to achieve a predetermined heat transfer profile.

In embodiments, such as where hair styling apparatus 100 does not include heating element 220, heating of hair contacting element 225 may be controlled by directly applying energy to hair contacting element 225.

Fig. 5 illustrates a method 500 of operating a hair styling apparatus in accordance with an embodiment. Method 500 may be used to operate hair styling apparatus 100 described above with reference to fig. 1A, 1B and 2. In the embodiment of fig. 5, hair styling apparatus 100 includes a heatable hair contacting element 225 having hair-contactable surfaces 116, 126. The hair contacting elements 225 are operable to apply heat to the hair of a user via the hair-contactable surface. In these embodiments, the hair styling apparatus 100 also includes an IMU 235. The IMU235 is configured to output a signal based on the movement of the hair contacting elements 225. In an embodiment, the method 500 is performed at least in part by the controller 210.

In step 510, one or more signals are received from the IMU 235 indicating that the hair contacting elements 225 are moving along the hair bundle from a first end of the hair bundle to a second end of the hair bundle.

In step 520, the received one or more signals are processed to determine a displacement of hair contacting elements 225 from a first end of the hair bundle.

In step 530, heating of hair contacting elements 225 is controlled based on the determined displacement.

By controlling the heating of hair contacting elements 225 based on the determined displacement of hair contacting elements 225 from a first end of the hair bundle (e.g., the root end of the hair bundle), the heat transfer and/or distribution along the hair bundle may be controlled and/or adapted. In this way, by determining the displacement of hair contacting elements 225 at a given time and controlling the heating of hair contacting elements 225 accordingly, a target heat transfer profile along the hair bundle may be achieved. In an alternative embodiment, the received one or more signals are processed to determine the displacement of hair contacting elements 225 from the second end of the hair bundle (e.g., the hair tip end of the hair bundle).

In an embodiment, the first end comprises a root end of a hair strand and the second end comprises a tip end of the hair strand. The first end may be located at a midpoint of the root or bundle of hair. The second end may similarly be located at a mid-point of the hair tip or hair bundle.

In an embodiment, the amount of energy used to heat hair contacting elements 225 (e.g., the amount of energy applied to heating elements 220) is adjusted based on the determined displacement. This allows to obtain a heat transfer curve that varies along the hair strand. For example, as the hair contacting elements 225 move along the hair bundle, the amount of energy used to heat the hair contacting elements 225 may increase. As such, the amount of energy used to heat hair contacting elements 225 may depend on the displacement of hair contacting elements 225 from the first end of the hair bundle. This enables a desired styling to be obtained while reducing styling time and reducing the likelihood of head heating damage.

In an embodiment, heating of hair contacting elements 225 is controlled based on a predetermined threshold operating temperature of hair contacting elements 225. For example, heating of hair contacting elements 225 may be controlled to maintain the operating temperature of hair contacting elements 225 above a predetermined threshold operating temperature. The predetermined threshold operating temperature is dependent upon the determined displacement of hair contacting element 225 from the first end of the hair bundle. For example, the predetermined threshold operating temperature may be lower when the hair contacting element 225 is relatively close to the root end, and higher when the hair contacting element 225 is relatively far from the root end (or close to the tip end). Thus, different operating temperatures of hair contacting elements 225 may be used for different displacements. This enables the application of a dynamic or varying heat transfer profile along the hair strand to the hair.

In an embodiment, the one or more signals are processed to determine a length of the hair strand between the first end and the second end. The determined length may be used to determine the displacement of hair contacting element 225 from the first end. Using the length of the hair strand to determine the displacement may be more accurate than a comparison without determining the length of the hair strand. Furthermore, the relative displacement can be determined using the length of the hair strand in addition to or instead of the absolute displacement. For example, at a given time, hair contacting elements 225 may be determined along an intermediate portion of the hair bundle between the first and second ends, and heating of hair contacting elements 225 may be controlled accordingly (e.g., applying a predetermined heat to hair of the intermediate portion between the first and second ends). This enables a desired heat transfer profile along the hair strand. In an embodiment, the absolute displacement is used to achieve a heat transfer profile, for example using a predetermined hair strand length. This may be easier to achieve than methods of measuring the length of a hair strand. A given portion of the hair strand longer than a predetermined length may receive the highest temperature of the heat transfer curve. In an embodiment, the position of hair contacting element 225 relative to the user's head is determined and used with a predetermined hair strand length to determine displacement from the first end of the hair strand.

In an embodiment, a first signal is received from IMU235 indicating that hair contacting elements 225 are moving along the hair bundle in a first stroke. The first received signal is processed to determine the length of the hair bundle. A second signal is then received from IMU235 indicating that hair contacting elements 225 are moving along the hair bundle in a second stroke subsequent to the first stroke. The second signal is processed using the determined length to determine the displacement of hair contacting element 225 from the first end. Thus, the length of the hair strand may be determined from IMU data along a first stroke of the hair strand, and the determined length is then used with the IMU data for a second stroke to determine displacement along the hair strand at a given time. This may provide a more accurate displacement value than a comparison without a predetermined hair strand length. The first stroke and the second stroke may both be part of the same hair styling stage, or may be part of different hair styling stages. For example, the first stroke may be from a previous hair styling stage. In an alternative embodiment, the hair strand length and displacement are determined in the same stroke. This involves less travel and therefore less time and/or power consumption than if the length and displacement of the hair strand were determined in different passes.

In an embodiment, heating of hair contacting elements 225 is controlled such that the operating temperature of hair contacting elements 225 increases as hair contacting elements 225 move along the hair bundle from the root end to the tip end. Providing an increased heat transfer profile from the root end to the tip end reduces the likelihood of thermal damage while ensuring that a sufficiently high temperature is transferred to the hair at the tip end to achieve the desired styling.

In an embodiment, the signals received from IMU 235 are processed using a Madgwick filter. This is described in more detail with reference to fig. 3 above. In an embodiment, as described above, a machine learning model is used to process the received signals.

In alternative embodiments, such as where hair styling apparatus 100 does not include heating element 220, the heating of hair contacting elements 225 may be controlled by the application of energy directly to hair contacting elements 225.

Fig. 6 illustrates a method 600 of operating a hair styling apparatus in accordance with an embodiment. Method 600 may be used to operate hair styling apparatus 100 described above with reference to fig. 1A, 1B and 2. In the embodiment of fig. 6, hair styling apparatus 100 includes IMU 235.IMU 235 is configured to output signals in accordance with the movement of hair styling apparatus 100. In an embodiment, the method 600 is performed at least in part by the controller 210.

In step 610, a signal is received from the IMU 235 indicating movement of the hair styling apparatus 100 along the hair bundle between the first and second ends of the hair bundle.

In step 620, the received signal is processed to determine the length of the hair strand between the first end and the second end.

In step 630, the hair styling apparatus 100 is controlled to perform an action based on the determined length.

By determining the length of the hair strand, more useful information about the user's hair can be obtained and utilized. For example, styling recommendations and/or feedback may be provided based on the length of the hair strands, e.g., via a user interface of hair styling apparatus 100. Different hairstyle suggestions may be suitable for different hair strand lengths. Accordingly, by determining the length of the hair strands from the IMU data, styling advice provided by hair styling apparatus 100 may be tailored to a particular user. Additionally or alternatively, the determined hair strand length may be used to control one or more operational settings of hair styling apparatus 100, such as an operating temperature, thereby enabling the operational control to be customized based on the user's hair strand length.

In an embodiment, the received signal is processed to determine a length between a root end of the hair strand and a tip end of the hair strand. The hair styling apparatus 100 may be controlled based on the determined length. The first end may be located at a midpoint of the root or bundle of hair. The second end may similarly be located at a mid-point of the hair tip or hair bundle.

In an embodiment, the determined length is used to determine the displacement of hair styling apparatus 100 from the first end of the hair bundle. The hair styling apparatus 100 may be controlled based on the determined displacement. Such a determined displacement may be more accurate than a comparison without using the length of the hair strand to determine the displacement. By more precisely determining the displacement of hair styling apparatus 100 from the first end, better control of the heating profile along the hair strand may be achieved. Determining displacement of hair styling apparatus 100 from the first end of the hair strand allows the transmission and/or distribution of heat along the hair strand to be controlled and/or accommodated. In this way, by determining the displacement of hair contacting element 225 at a given moment and controlling hair styling apparatus 100 accordingly, a target heat transfer profile along the hair bundle may be achieved.

In embodiments where hair styling apparatus 100 includes heating element 220, heating element 220 may be operable to apply heat to the hair of a user, heating element 220 may be controlled based on the determined length. In embodiments where hair styling apparatus 100 includes hair contacting elements 225, heating element 220 may be controlled based on a target operating temperature of hair contacting elements 225. The target operating temperature may depend on the determined length. In this way, hair may be heated differently by hair styling apparatus 100 for different lengths of hair strands. This allows the hair styling apparatus 100 to fit the user's hair, thereby reducing styling time and/or helping to achieve a desired styling, as compared to situations where the operating temperature is not dependent on the length of the hair bundle.

In an embodiment, the user interface is caused to provide an output related to the determined length. In some embodiments, a user interface is included in hair styling apparatus 100, such as user interface 240. In alternative embodiments, the user interface is not included in hair styling apparatus 100, for example, the user interface may be included in a charging device of the hair styling apparatus or in an application installed on a mobile telephone device. The output may include audio and/or video output. In an embodiment, the output comprises styling recommendations and/or feedback depending on the determined length. For example, a first styling recommendation may be provided if the determined length is below a predetermined threshold length, and a second styling recommendation different from the first styling recommendation may be provided if the determined length is above the predetermined threshold length. In this manner, customized feedback and/or advice may be provided to the user to assist the user in using hair styling apparatus 100 in a more efficient and/or optimal manner.

In an embodiment, a portion and/or a layer of hair designed using hair styling apparatus 100 is determined based on the determined length. In such embodiments, the hair styling apparatus 100 is controlled in accordance with a determined portion and/or layer of hair being styled. For example, specific styling recommendations and/or feedback may be provided to the user depending on which portion and/or layer of hair is being styled. The top of the head portion of the user's hair may have a different hair strand length than the back neck portion of the user's hair, and by determining which portion is being styled, the hair styling apparatus 100 may be controlled differently for different portions (e.g., by providing customized feedback via a user interface, and/or by controlling heating).

In an embodiment, the determined length is stored in a memory, such as memory 250 of hair styling apparatus 100. This allows the determined length to be retrieved and used at a later time, for example, for a subsequent stroke and/or use of the hair styling apparatus 100. In an embodiment, the determined length is determined for a first stroke along the hair strand, stored in memory 250, and then used to determine the displacement of hair contacting element 225 moving along the hair strand in a second stroke. In some embodiments, the determined length is stored for analysis of the user's hair. In an embodiment, the determined length is stored to enable one or more settings of the hair styling apparatus 100 to fit the hair of the user. For example, a user hair styling profile may be generated for the user based at least in part on the determined hair strand length. Such user hair styling profiles may be used to provide feedback and/or advice to the user, and/or may be used to control one or more settings of hair styling apparatus 100 during subsequent use of hair styling apparatus 100 by the user. In an embodiment, hair styling apparatus 100 is configured to generate and/or store a plurality of user hair styling profiles for different users. That is, multiple users may each use the same hair styling apparatus 100, different users having, for example, different hair lengths, and the hair styling apparatus 100 may store a customized profile (local or remote) for each user to allow the settings of the hair styling apparatus 100 to be adapted to different users.

In an embodiment, the received signal is processed using a Madgwick filter. This is described in more detail with reference to fig. 3 above. In an embodiment, as described above, a machine learning model is used to process the received signals.

Fig. 7 illustrates a method 700 of operating a hair styling apparatus in accordance with an embodiment. Method 700 may be used to operate hair styling apparatus 100 described above with reference to fig. 1A, 1B and 2. In the embodiment of fig. 7, hair styling apparatus 100 includes a heatable hair contacting element 225. The hair contacting element 225 includes opposed first and second hair contacting surfaces 116, 126. The hair contacting elements 225 are movable between a closed configuration and an open configuration. Hair styling apparatus 100 includes a sensor apparatus 230 configured to generate a sensor output indicative of whether hair contacting element 225 is in a closed configuration or an open configuration. In an embodiment, hair styling apparatus 100 comprises a cordless hair styling apparatus. In an embodiment, the method 700 is performed at least in part by the controller 210.

In step 710, a sensor output is received from the sensor device 230.

In step 720, heating of hair contacting elements 225 is controlled based on a first predetermined threshold operating temperature of hair contacting elements 225 in response to the sensor output indicating that hair contacting elements 225 are in the closed configuration.

In step 730, in response to the sensor output indicating that hair contacting elements 225 are in the open configuration, heating of hair contacting elements 225 is controlled based on a second predetermined threshold operating temperature of hair contacting elements 225. The second predetermined threshold operating temperature is lower than the first predetermined threshold operating temperature.

In this way, when the hair contacting elements 225 are in the open configuration, the operating temperature of the hair contacting elements 225 is lower than when the hair contacting elements 225 are in the closed configuration. This allows for reduced power consumption while maintaining the ability of hair contacting elements 225 to transfer the desired heat to the hair.

The opposing first and second hair-contactable surfaces 116, 126 are spaced apart when the hair-contact member 225 is in the open configuration, and the opposing first and second hair-contactable surfaces 116, 126 can come together when the hair-contact member 225 is in the closed configuration. In an embodiment, the distance between the first and second hair-contactable surfaces 116, 126 is less than a predetermined threshold distance when the hair-contact member 225 is in the closed configuration, and greater than the predetermined threshold distance when the hair-contact member 225 is in the open configuration. In some cases, the first and second hair-contactable surfaces 116, 126 abut one another when the hair-contact member 225 is in the closed configuration. In other cases, the first and second hair-contactable surfaces 116, 126 do not abut one another when the hair-contacting element 225 is in the closed configuration.

When the hair contacting elements 225 are in the closed configuration, hair engaged between the opposing first and second hair-contactable surfaces 116, 126 is styled, such as by the application of heat and/or mechanical pressure. However, in embodiments, hair styling does not occur when the hair contacting elements 225 are in the open configuration. For example, the hair contacting elements 225 may be in an open configuration when there is no hair between the opposing hair-contactable surfaces 116, 126. In an embodiment, when hair contacting elements 225 are dormant, e.g., not in use, hair contacting elements 225 are in an open configuration. In an embodiment, hair contacting elements 225 are in an open configuration when hair styling apparatus 100 is between strokes. For example, a first stroke along the hair bundle (wherein hair contacting elements 225 are in a closed configuration) may be performed, and then hair contacting elements 225 may be moved to an open configuration before a second stroke along the hair bundle is initiated. Moving hair contacting elements 225 to the open configuration may include releasing hair engaged between the hair-contactable surfaces. Thus, power consumption is reduced by lowering the threshold operating temperature when hair is not between the hair-contactable surfaces.

In an embodiment, in response to the sensor output indicating that hair contacting elements 225 are in the closed configuration, heating of hair contacting elements 225 is controlled to maintain the operating temperature of hair contacting elements 225 above a first predetermined threshold operating temperature. In response to the sensor output indicating that hair contacting elements 225 are in the open configuration, heating of hair contacting elements 225 is controlled to maintain the operating temperature of hair contacting elements 225 above a second predetermined threshold operating temperature.

In an embodiment, in response to the sensor output indicating that hair contacting elements 225 are in the closed configuration, energy is applied to heat hair contacting elements 225 when the operating temperature of hair contacting elements 225 falls below a first predetermined threshold operating temperature. In response to the sensor output indicating that hair contacting elements 225 are in the open configuration, energy is applied to heat hair contacting elements 225 when the operating temperature of hair contacting elements 225 falls below a second predetermined threshold operating temperature.

In an embodiment, in response to the sensor output indicating that hair contacting elements 225 are in the closed configuration, a first energy is applied to heat hair contacting elements 225 (e.g., the first energy is applied to heating element 220). In response to the sensor output indicating that hair contacting elements 225 are in the open configuration, a second energy is applied to heat hair contacting elements 225 (e.g., the second energy is applied to heating element 220). The second energy is lower than the first energy. In this way, less energy may be applied to heat hair contacting elements 225 when hair contacting elements 225 are in the open configuration, thereby reducing power consumption.

In an embodiment, the sensor device 230 comprises a hall effect sensor. In some such embodiments, hair styling apparatus 100 includes a magnet coupled to first hair-contactable surface 116, and a hall-effect sensor coupled to second hair-contactable surface 126. The sensor output produced by such a hall-effect sensor may be used to determine whether the hair contacting element 225 is in an open or closed configuration, such as whether the distance between the first and second hair-contactable surfaces 116, 126 is greater than or less than a predetermined threshold distance. In an embodiment, the sensor device 230 includes an IMU 235. As such, the determination of whether hair contacting elements 225 are in the open configuration or the closed configuration may be based on sensed movement of hair contacting elements 225.

In an embodiment, the second predetermined threshold operating temperature is at least 50 degrees lower than the first predetermined threshold operating temperature.

Fig. 8 illustrates a method 800 of operating a hair styling apparatus in accordance with an embodiment. Method 800 may be used to operate hair styling apparatus 100 described above with reference to fig. 1A, 1B and 2. In the embodiment of fig. 8, hair styling apparatus 100 includes a heatable hair contacting element 225 having hair-contactable surfaces 116, 126. The hair contacting elements 225 are operable to apply heat to hair via the hair-contactable surfaces 116, 126. In an embodiment, the method 800 is performed at least in part by the controller 210.

In step 810, power consumption associated with heating of hair contacting elements 225 is monitored during heating of a user's hair via hair-contactable surfaces 116, 126.

In step 820, one or more hair damage parameters are calculated based on the monitored power consumption, indicating damage to the heated hair.

In step 830, the hair styling apparatus 100 is controlled based on the one or more calculated hair damage parameters.

In an embodiment, hair styling apparatus 100 includes heating element 220 operable to heat hair contacting element 225. In such embodiments, one or more hair damage parameters are calculated based on the monitored power drawn by heating element 220 to heat hair contacting elements 225. In alternative embodiments, such as where hair styling apparatus 100 does not include heating element 220, one or more hair damage parameters are calculated based on the monitored power drawn by hair contact member 225 itself.

In an embodiment, the one or more calculated hair damage parameters are indicative of at least one of physical damage, thermal damage, and chemical damage to the heated hair.

In an embodiment, the one or more calculated hair damage parameters are indicative of pre-existing damage to the heated hair. Hair may have been previously damaged by, for example, overheating (causing thermal damage), chemical treatment (causing chemical damage), applying too much clamping pressure, and/or too many repeated strokes (causing mechanical damage), etc. Thus, pre-existing damage to hair may be considered when controlling hair styling apparatus 100. Controlling the hair styling apparatus 100 in view of hair damage may include, for example, controlling heating of the hair and/or providing feedback to the user, as will be described in more detail below.

Damaged hair may retain less moisture than undamaged hair, for example, due to changes in the internal structure of the hair. In an attempt to heat the hair, the amount of moisture retained by the hair in turn affects the power consumption associated with hair contact 225. Accordingly, hair may be heated by monitoring the power consumption associated with hair contacting elements 225 (e.g., the power consumed by heating element 220), thereby obtaining a measurement of hair damage. For example, the power required by the heating element 220 to heat hair to a given temperature may be relatively high (retain less moisture) for damaged hair and relatively low (retain more moisture) for undamaged hair. Power consumption may be measured using a power meter, ammeter, multimeter, etc. function incorporated into the hair styling apparatus.

In an embodiment, the one or more calculated hair damage parameters are indicative of predicted damage due to heating of the heated hair. In other words, the power consumption associated with heating of hair contacting elements 225 may be used to predict whether and/or to what extent hair may be damaged by heating. Such damage may be in addition to the original damage. Thus, in an embodiment, one or more calculated hair damage parameters are indicative of pre-existing damage and predicted damage to heated hair. For example, if hair is damaged, less moisture remains than undamaged hair, and the likelihood of further damage to the hair due to heating increases. By monitoring the power consumption associated with heating hair contacting elements 225 and determining one or more hair damage parameters, such predicted future hair damage may be avoided. In alternative embodiments, the one or more hair damage parameters are indicative of only predicted damage (not pre-existing damage).

In embodiments, one or more hair damage parameters indicate a type of damage, such as chemical damage, thermal damage, or mechanical damage. This type of damage may be determined based on the power consumption associated with heating hair contacting elements 225. For example, chemically damaged hair may retain less moisture than thermally damaged hair. In an embodiment, the one or more hair damage parameters are indicative of the extent of hair damage. The one or more hair damage parameters may include from 0: "undamaged" to 10: for example, an increased scale of "severely damaged".

In an embodiment, one or more hair damage parameters are calculated by monitoring power consumption associated with heating of hair contacting element 225 to maintain an operating temperature of hair contacting element 225 above a predetermined threshold operating temperature. For example, the heating element 220 may draw more power to maintain the operating temperature of the hair contacting elements 225 above a predetermined threshold for damaged hair than for undamaged hair. The power drawn by heating element 220 is indicative of the power consumption associated with the heating of hair contacting elements 225 during hair heating.

In embodiments where hair styling apparatus 100 includes sensor apparatus 230, sensor apparatus 230 is configured to generate a sensor output from movement of hair contacting element 225, one or more hair damage parameters may be calculated based on the sensor output. The power drawn by the heating element 220 for heating the hair contacting elements 225 may depend on the movement of the hair contacting elements 225. Thus, by taking into account the movement of hair contacting elements 225, one or more hair damage parameters may be more accurately calculated from the monitored power.

In an embodiment, hair contacting elements 225 are operable to apply heat to a user's hair by movement of hair contacting elements 225 along the hair bundle between the root end and the tip end of the hair bundle. Based on the sensor output, the displacement of hair contacting element 225 may be determined. In such embodiments, one or more hair damage parameters are calculated based on the determined displacement. The power consumption associated with heating of hair contacting elements 225 may depend on the position of hair contacting elements 225 in the hair bundle, e.g., relative to the root end or the tip end of the hair. This is due, at least in part, to the fact that hair strands are generally thicker at the root end and thinner at the tip end. Thus, by taking into account the displacement of the hair contact member 225 from the root end of the hair bundle, one or more hair damage parameters may be more accurately calculated from the monitored power.

In an embodiment, based on the sensor output, it is determined whether hair contacting elements 225 are in motion. One or more hair damage parameters may be calculated based on determining whether hair contacting elements 225 are in motion. The power consumption associated with heating hair contacting elements 225 may depend on whether hair contacting elements 225 are in motion. Thus, by taking into account the movement of hair contacting elements 225, one or more hair damage parameters may be more accurately calculated from the monitored power.

In an embodiment, it is determined whether the heated hair has been previously heated by the hair styling apparatus 100. One or more hair damage parameters may be calculated based on whether the heated hair has been previously heated by hair styling apparatus 100. The power consumption associated with the heating of hair contacting elements 225 may depend on whether the heated hair has been previously heated by hair styling apparatus 100. Thus, by taking into account the previous heating of the hair, one or more hair damage parameters may be more accurately calculated from the monitored power. The previous heating of hair by hair styling apparatus 100 may include heating during a previous hair styling and/or heating during a previous stroke during a current hair styling. The heating element 220 may draw less power when heating hair that has been previously heated than when heating hair that has not been previously heated. In addition, heating hair that has been previously heated increases the likelihood of thermally and/or mechanically damaging the hair.

In an embodiment, it is determined whether the heated hair has been previously heated within a predetermined period of time. One or more hair damage parameters may be calculated based on whether the heated hair has been previously heated within a predetermined period of time. For example, the predetermined period of time may correspond to a current hair styling session. In this way, one or more hair damage parameters may be calculated based on whether the heated hair has been heated during the current hair styling session.

In an embodiment, portions and/or layers of user hair heated via the hair-contactable surface are determined. One or more hair damage parameters may be calculated based on the determined portion and/or layer of hair. In an embodiment, sensor data, such as IMU signals indicative of movement of hair contacting elements 225, are used to determine the portion and/or layer being styled. The power consumption associated with heating of hair contacting elements 225 may depend on which portion and/or layer of hair is being styled. Thus, by taking into account portions and/or layers of hair, one or more hair damage parameters may be more accurately calculated from the monitored power.

Thus, in an embodiment, one or more factors that may affect the relationship between the power consumption and hair damage parameters associated with heating hair contacting elements 225 are filtered out or considered in order to improve the accuracy of the calculation of the hair damage parameters. These factors include movement of hair contacting elements 225, displacement of hair contacting elements 225 along the hair bundle, whether and/or when the hair was previously heated, and which portion and/or layer of hair was styled. In alternative embodiments, other factors may be determined and considered.

In an embodiment, the user interface is caused to provide an output based on one or more calculated hair damage parameters. The output may include a notification informing the user that the heated hair is damaged and/or potentially damaged. In an embodiment, the notification informs the user of the type of hair damage. In an embodiment, the notification informs the user of the location of damaged and/or potentially damaged hair. For example, the user may be notified of which portion and/or layer of hair contains damaged hair. In an embodiment, the output comprises an alert related to a hair damage parameter. In an embodiment, the output includes a notification informing the user to take corrective action. For example, the notification may notify the user to stop heating the hair to avoid damage/further damage to the hair. The notification may alternatively notify the user to adjust the operating temperature of hair contacting element 225, adjust the speed at which the user moves hair contacting element 225, and/or adjust the clamping pressure the user applies to the hair.

A user interface may be included in hair styling apparatus 100. For example, the user interface may include the user interface 240 described above with reference to fig. 2. In alternative embodiments, the user interface is not included in hair styling apparatus 100. The user interface may be included in a remote device that is communicatively coupled (e.g., via wireless communication) with hair styling apparatus 100. Such remote devices may include, for example, user devices or docking stations.

In an embodiment, heating of hair contacting elements 225 is controlled based on one or more calculated hair damage parameters. For example, where the hair styling apparatus includes heating element 220, heating element 220 may be controlled based on one or more calculated hair damage parameters. In an embodiment, the amount of energy applied to the heating element 220 is adjusted based on one or more calculated hair damage parameters. This may reduce and/or avoid damage to hair and/or further damage. In an embodiment, if it is determined that the hair is damaged, the operating temperature of hair contacting elements 225 is reduced. In an alternative embodiment, if it is determined that the hair is damaged, the operating temperature of hair contacting elements 225 is increased. For example, damaged hair may require more heat to style in a desired manner. In embodiments, the degree and/or type of hair damage may be determined such that the likelihood and/or impact of further damage is negligible. In some embodiments, heating of hair contacting elements 225 (e.g., heating by heating element 220) is prevented based on one or more calculated hair damage parameters. In this manner, heating of the hair by hair contacting elements 225 may be stopped, thereby reducing and/or avoiding damage to and/or further damage to the hair.

In alternative embodiments, such as where hair styling apparatus 100 does not include heating element 220, the heating of hair contacting elements 225 may be controlled by the application of energy directly to hair contacting elements 225. In such embodiments, the power consumption associated with heating of hair contacting elements 225 (rather than the power consumed by heating element 220 to heat hair contacting elements 225) may be monitored directly and used to calculate one or more hair damage parameters.

Fig. 9 illustrates a method 900 of operating a hair styling apparatus in accordance with an embodiment. Method 900 may be used to operate hair styling apparatus 100 described above with reference to fig. 1A, 1B and 2. In the embodiment of fig. 9, hair styling apparatus 100 includes a sensor apparatus 230 configured to generate a sensor output based on at least one usage characteristic of hair styling apparatus 100. The at least one usage characteristic is indicative of a current use of the hair styling apparatus 100. In an embodiment, the method 900 is performed at least in part by the controller 210.

In step 910, a sensor output is received from the sensor device 230.

In step 920, the sensor output is processed using a classification algorithm to obtain classification data. The classification algorithm is configured to determine whether hair styling apparatus 100 is to be used according to a first styling action or a second, different styling action based on at least one usage characteristic of hair styling apparatus 100.

In step 930, the classification data is used to control hair styling apparatus 100 to perform an action.

In this way, hair styling apparatus 100 is able to determine the styling behavior currently being used based on the sensor data. By using the sensor data as input to the classification algorithm, modeling behavior can be identified without requiring user input. Accordingly, hair styling apparatus 100 may autonomously recognize how a user is using hair styling apparatus 100 and adjust itself accordingly. This allows for more intelligent control of the hair styling apparatus 100. For example, one or more operational settings of hair styling apparatus 100 may be controlled in accordance with the identified behavior. This allows the settings of hair styling apparatus 100 to more closely correspond to how a user attempts to use hair styling apparatus 100. This may reduce the build time and/or increase the likelihood of achieving a desired build. Furthermore, this may reduce the likelihood of hair damage, for example, due to the user using incorrect and/or sub-optimal settings for a given styling action.

In an embodiment, the first styling action comprises a hair straightening action and the second styling action comprises a non-hair straightening action, such as a hair curling action. At least one usage characteristic of hair straightening may be different compared to hair curling. For example, a user may move hair styling apparatus 100 differently depending on whether the user is attempting to straighten or curl hair. For example, hair curling involves a greater amount of rotation of the hair styling apparatus 100 than hair straightening. As such, the classification algorithm may be configured to use the sensor data to distinguish between straight hair and curly hair. In embodiments, it is determined that hair styling apparatus 100 is not being used to straighten hair, and such a determination is used to infer that hair styling apparatus 100 is being used to curl hair, or vice versa. In embodiments, different operational settings of hair styling apparatus 100 may be used depending on whether hair styling apparatus 100 is determined to be used for straight or non-straight hair, such as curled hair. For example, it may be desirable to use lower operating temperatures for curling hair than for straightening hair in order to achieve a desired styling while reducing the likelihood of hair damage. This may be due to longer duration of travel and/or slower travel speed of the curls than the straight hair. In embodiments, different heat transfer profiles may be determined and/or used depending on whether the hair styling apparatus 100 is determined to be used for straightening or curling hair.

In an embodiment, the first styling behavior comprises a full styling behavior and the second styling behavior comprises a modifying behavior. At least one usage characteristic of the full build may be different compared to the modification. For example, a user may move hair styling apparatus 100 differently depending on whether the user is performing a full styling or a grooming. Full styling may involve styling along the entire length of the hair strand, while grooming may involve styling only a portion of the length of the hair strand (e.g., the hair tip of the hair strand). Additionally or alternatively, full styling may include styling hair from scratch (e.g., hair has not been previously styled, or has not been previously styled for a predetermined period of time), while modification may include modifying or restoring an existing styling. In this way, the classification algorithm may be configured to use the sensor data to distinguish between full build and embellishment. In embodiments, different operational settings of hair styling apparatus 100 may be used, depending on whether hair styling apparatus 100 is intended for full styling or grooming. For example, it may be desirable to use higher operating temperatures for finishing than full molding. In embodiments, different heat transfer profiles may be determined and/or used depending on whether hair styling apparatus 100 is determined to be used for full styling or grooming. For example, a constant heat transfer profile may be used for finishing, while a varying heat transfer profile may be used for full styling.

In an embodiment, the first styling action comprises a wet styling action and the second styling action comprises a dry styling action. At least one usage characteristic of wet hair may be different compared to dry hair. For example, the power drawn by hair styling apparatus 100 during use may depend on whether the hair is wet or dry. For example, whether hair is wet or dry may be determined by using a capacitive sensor, a humidity sensor, and/or by monitoring power consumption during hair heating. As such, the classification algorithm may be configured to use the sensor data to distinguish wet hair styling from dry hair styling. In embodiments, different operational settings of hair styling apparatus 100 may be used depending on whether hair styling apparatus 100 is determined to be used for wet or dry hair. In some cases, the use of hair styling apparatus 100 on wet hair may increase the risk of damaging the hair as compared to the use of hair styling apparatus 100 on dry hair. In some such examples, the user interface may be caused to provide an output that suggests that the user does not use hair styling apparatus 100 on wet hair to avoid damaging the hair. In other examples, one or more operating settings of hair styling apparatus 100 may be adjusted depending on whether hair styling apparatus 100 is determined to be used with wet or dry hair.

In alternative embodiments, the classification algorithm may identify other modeling behaviors. For example, the classification algorithm may be configured to determine which portion and/or layer of hair is being styled. In some examples, the classification algorithm is configured to determine whether hair styling apparatus 100 is currently in use, stationary (e.g., dormant) due to being charged, or stationary due to a user moving the hair styling apparatus between portions and/or layers of hair.

In an embodiment, the classification algorithm comprises a training algorithm. The training data is used to train a classification algorithm to determine whether hair styling apparatus 100 is being used in accordance with the first styling action or the second styling action. The use of such a trained algorithm results in a more accurate and/or reliable classification of styling behavior than if the trained algorithm were not used.

In an embodiment, the classification algorithm comprises a machine learning algorithm. Such machine learning algorithms may be improved by experience and/or training (e.g., to increase accuracy and/or reliability of classification). In an embodiment, the classification algorithm comprises a random forest algorithm. Such algorithms may use multiple decision trees. Classification data may be obtained based on an average of the output categories of the respective trees. In alternative embodiments, other types of classification algorithms may be used. In an embodiment, the classification algorithm comprises a first step of performing feature extraction on the sensor output and a second step of performing behavioral classification using the extracted features. In an embodiment, the machine learning algorithm includes one or more artificial neural networks.

In an embodiment, hair styling apparatus 100 includes a machine learning agent (not shown). For example, a machine learning agent may be included in the controller 210. In such embodiments, the machine learning agent includes a classification algorithm. In this manner, the sorting algorithm may be located on the hair styling apparatus 100. Performing the classification of styling actions on hair styling apparatus 100 reduces latency as compared to the case where the classification algorithm is not located on hair styling apparatus 100, as there is no need to send and/or receive data to/from another device. This enables classification data to be obtained more quickly, thereby reducing the time taken to take any corrective action, such as adjusting one or more operating settings of hair styling apparatus 100. This, in turn, may reduce the likelihood of damage to the hair, for example, due to operational settings that do not conform to the intended use of hair styling apparatus 100.

In an embodiment, for example where the sensor apparatus 230 includes an IMU 235, at least one usage feature indicates movement of the hair styling apparatus 100. In this manner, styling behavior may be determined based on how hair styling apparatus 100 is moved. In embodiments where hair styling apparatus 100 includes hair contacting element 225, hair contacting element 225 includes opposing first and second hair-contactable surfaces 116, 126, hair contacting element 225 may be movable between an open configuration and a closed configuration, and at least one usage feature may indicate whether hair contacting element 225 is in the open configuration or in the closed configuration. The sensor device 230 may include a hall effect sensor, for example, operable to sense whether the hair contacting element 225 is in an open configuration or in a closed configuration. As such, styling behavior may be determined based on whether and/or when hair contacting elements 225 are in the open and closed configurations.

In an embodiment, the classification algorithm is modified using the sensor output. In this way, the sensor output may be used to train and/or further train the classification algorithm. Modifying the classification algorithm allows for improved accuracy and/or reliability of the algorithm by experience and/or using more training data. That is, the confidence of the classification data can be improved. In addition, modifying the classification algorithm allows the classification algorithm to fit the user. For example, an initial classification algorithm may be provided on hair styling apparatus 100, but the initial classification algorithm does not take into account the specific behavior and/or activity of a given user. For example, a user may move hair contact member 225 in a particular manner that is different from other users. By using the sensor output as training data to dynamically retrain the classification algorithm, the classification algorithm can more reliably determine which styling behavior the user is attempting to use.

In embodiments where hair styling apparatus 100 includes heating element 220, heating element 220 may be operable to apply heat to hair, heating element 220 may be controlled based on the classification data. In this manner, heating element 220 may be controlled depending on whether hair styling apparatus 100 is being used in accordance with the first styling action or the second styling action. In an embodiment, the heating element 220 is controlled to apply a predetermined heat transfer profile along the hair strand. The predetermined heat transfer profile depends on whether the hair styling apparatus 100 is to be used in accordance with the first styling action or the second styling action. In embodiments, controlling heating element 220 includes adjusting the amount of energy applied to heating element 220 and/or adjusting the operating temperature of hair styling apparatus 100. This enables the thermal setting of hair styling apparatus 100 to more closely correspond to the styling activity that the user would like to use. In this way, a desired styling may be achieved while reducing the likelihood of hair damage and/or reducing styling time.

In an embodiment, the user interface is caused to provide an output based on the classification data. The output may include, for example, a notification informing the user that the current operating settings of hair styling apparatus 100 are inconsistent with the identified styling behavior. This may prompt the user to take corrective action, such as changing an operational setting. In an embodiment, the output includes a warning for incorrect and/or unsafe use of hair styling apparatus 100. In an embodiment, the outputting includes requesting the user to confirm that the identified contouring behavior is correct.

In an embodiment, one or more contextual features are used as input to a classification algorithm to obtain classification data. In this way, the classification algorithm may take as input the sensor output and one or more contextual features. In an embodiment, the one or more contextual characteristics are indicative of a previous use of the hair styling apparatus. For example, it may be determined and/or known that hair styling apparatus 100 was previously used by a user to straighten hair. This information affects the behavior classification for subsequent use. For example, due to knowledge of previous behavior, the probability of determining that hair styling apparatus 100 is currently being used to straighten hair, rather than curl, may be increased. In some embodiments, the prior use includes a previously shaped hair strand during the same hair shaping process. For example, it may be determined and/or known that the first hair strands are straightened using hair styling apparatus 100. This information increases the probability of determining that the second hair strand is also straightened. In an embodiment, the one or more contextual characteristics indicate user preferences. Using contextual features as inputs to the classification algorithm increases the confidence of the classification data.

In an embodiment, the classification data is stored in a memory, such as memory 250 of hair styling apparatus 100. In this manner, the classification data may be used at a later time, such as during a subsequent use of hair styling apparatus 100. In an embodiment, the classification data is stored for use as a contextual characteristic during subsequent use of the hair styling apparatus 100. This allows for an improved confidence level in future classifications performed by the classification algorithm. In an embodiment, the classification data is output for transmission to a remote device. For example, the classification data may be output for transmission to the user device. In an embodiment, the classification data is used to generate a user hair styling profile for the user. For example, a user hair styling profile may be used to provide customized styling advice to the user. The user hair styling profile may be modified and/or updated as new classification data is obtained.

In an embodiment, training data is received from a remote device. In some such embodiments, the received training data is used to modify the classification algorithm. Training data may be received from a network, such as a "cloud". Such training data may include sensor data and/or classification data associated with other users. Such training data may include crowd-sourced data, for example. In an embodiment, such training data is greater in number than sensor data and/or classification data obtained directly using hair styling apparatus 100. Modifying the classification algorithm using training data from a remote device may increase the accuracy and/or reliability of the classification algorithm compared to the case where such training data is not used.

Fig. 10 illustrates a method 1000 of operating a hair styling apparatus in accordance with an embodiment. Method 1000 may be used to operate hair styling apparatus 100 described above with reference to fig. 1A, 1B and 2. In the embodiment of fig. 10, the hair styling apparatus includes a heatable hair contacting element 225. The hair contacting element 225 includes opposed first and second hair contacting surfaces 116, 126. The hair contacting elements 225 are operable to apply heat to hair via at least one of the first hair-contactable surface 116 and the second hair-contactable surface 126. The hair styling apparatus 100 also includes a closure mechanism 227, the closure mechanism 227 being operable to move the first hair-contactable surface 116 relative to the second hair-contactable surface 126. In an embodiment, the method 1000 is performed at least in part by the controller 210.

In step 1010, a control signal is output to the closure mechanism 227.

In step 1020, in response to receipt of the control signal, the closure mechanism 227 adjusts the distance between the first hair-contactable surface 116 and the second hair-contactable surface 126.

Thus, the closure mechanism 227 is responsive to a control signal, for example, from the controller 210. Thus, in an embodiment, the user is not relied upon to control the distance between the first hair-contactable surface 116 and the second hair-contactable surface 126. This enables hair to be clamped between the hair-contactable surfaces 116, 126 in a more controlled and intelligent manner. If the user is relied upon to manually grip the hair, excessive or insufficient pressure may be applied to the hair. For example, at the root end of the hair bundle, the hair between the hair-contactable surfaces 116, 126 may be relatively thick, and the user may apply too much clamping pressure, thereby risking damage to the hair. However, at the tip of the hair bundle, the hair between the hair-contactable surfaces 116, 126 is relatively thin, and the user may not be able to apply sufficient clamping pressure to style the hair in a desired manner. Thus, clamping hair with only manual clamping force applied by a user may result in hair damage, failure to achieve a desired styling, and/or increased styling time. Thus, controlling the closure mechanism 227 in an automatic manner by a control signal from the controller 210 reduces the likelihood of hair damage, increases the likelihood of achieving a desired styling, and/or reduces styling time.

In an embodiment, hair contacting element 225 includes a first arm 110 and a second arm 120 movably coupled to first arm 110, as described above with reference to fig. 1A and 1B. The first arm 110 includes a first hair-contactable surface 116 and the second arm 120 includes a second hair-contactable surface 126. In some such embodiments, the closure mechanism 227 is configured to move the first hair-contactable surface 116 relative to the first arm 110 in response to receipt of a control signal. In this way, the first arm 110 may move relative to the second arm 120, and the first hair-contactable surface 116 may additionally move relative to the first arm 110. In some such embodiments, the closing of hair styling apparatus 100 includes two stages. In a first manual phase, the user moves the first arm 110 relative to the second arm 120, i.e. from an open configuration of the arms 110, 120 to a closed configuration of the arms 110, 120. In a second automated stage, the controller 210 causes the closure mechanism 227 to move the first hair-contactable surface 116 relative to the first arm 110, thereby adjusting the distance between the first and second hair-contactable surfaces 116, 126. In some embodiments, the closure mechanism 227 is configured to move the first arm 110 relative to the second arm 120 in response to receipt of a control signal.

In an embodiment, the closure mechanism 227 is operable to move the second hair-contactable surface 126 as well as the first hair-contactable surface 116. This allows for a finer level of control than if the closure mechanism 227 is operable to move only one of the hair-contactable surfaces 116, 126.

In an embodiment, a target distance between the first hair-contactable surface 116 and the second hair-contactable surface 126 is identified. In such an embodiment, a control signal is output to the closure mechanism 227 based on the target distance. The target distance may be identified based on a number of factors as described below.

In an embodiment, the target clamping pressure is applied to the hair between the first and second hair contacting surfaces 116, 126. In such an embodiment, a control signal is output to the closure mechanism 227 based on the target clamping pressure. For example, the control signal may cause the closure mechanism 227 to apply a target clamping pressure to hair between the first and second hair-contactable surfaces 116, 126. The target clamping pressure may be determined based on a number of factors as described below.

In an embodiment, the closure mechanism 227 is at least partially electromechanical. For example, the closure mechanism 227 may receive electrical control signals and convert such control signals into mechanical motion. In an embodiment, the closure mechanism 227 includes one or more stepper motors. In such embodiments, the closure mechanism 227 is configured to actuate one or more stepper motors to move the first hair-contactable surface 116 relative to the second hair-contactable surface 126 in response to receipt of the control signal.

In an embodiment, the closure mechanism 227 includes one or more inflatable bladders adjacent the first hair-contactable surface 116. In such embodiments, the closure mechanism 227 is configured to control the inflation of the one or more inflatable bladders in response to receipt of the control signal to move the first hair-contactable surface 116 relative to the second hair-contactable surface 126. Such a bladder may be used to provide a "floating" plate 115 comprising a first hair-contactable surface 116, which is movable relative to the first arm 110. Such a balloon may be disposed behind the first hair-contacting surface 116, i.e., within the first arm 110. The closure mechanism 227 is configured to control the inflation of one or more airbags to a desired pressure. In an embodiment, air is provided from a reservoir (e.g., a tank) under the control of the controller 210. The desired pressure depends on the target distance between the first and second hair-contactable surfaces 116, 126 and/or the target pressure to be applied to the hair between the first and second hair-contactable surfaces. The closure mechanism 227 may include a valve to prevent exceeding a desired pressure and/or to reduce the pressure in one or more of the bladders. In an embodiment, the closure mechanism 227 further includes one or more inflatable bladders adjacent the second hair-contactable surface 126, which may be controlled in a similar manner.

In an embodiment, it is determined that hair contacting elements 225 are moving along the hair bundle from the root end of the hair bundle toward the tip end of the hair bundle. For example, a signal from IMU 235 may be received indicating that hair contacting elements 225 are moving along the hair bundle. In some such embodiments, in response to determining that hair contacting elements 225 are moving along the hair bundle, a control signal is output to closure mechanism 227. The target distance between the first and second hair-contactable plates 116, 126 and/or the target pressure applied to the hair between the first and second hair-contactable plates 116, 126 may depend on the movement of the hair-contact member 225 along the hair bundle.

In an embodiment, a control signal is output to the closing mechanism based on a determined speed of movement of the hair contacting element 225 along the hair bundle. For example, if the determined speed is above a predetermined threshold, the clamping pressure may be reduced in order to reduce the likelihood of mechanical damage to the hair.

In an embodiment, displacement of hair contacting elements 225 from the root end of the hair bundle is determined. In such an embodiment, a control signal is output to the closure mechanism 227 based on the determined displacement. For example, signals from the IMU 235 may be used to determine displacement. In an embodiment, displacement of the hair contacting element 225 from the root end is used to calculate a target distance between the first and second hair-contactable plates 116, 126 and/or a target pressure to be applied to the hair between the first and second hair-contactable plates 116, 126. In this way, the clamping pressure applied to the hair can be controlled in a more intelligent manner.

In an embodiment, the control signal is output to the closure mechanism 227 such that the distance between the first hair-contactable surface 116 and the second hair-contactable surface 126 decreases as the hair-contacting element 225 moves along the hair bundle from the root end of the hair bundle toward the tip end of the hair bundle. Since hair is typically thicker at the root end and thinner (and/or less healthy) at the tip end, reducing the distance between hair-contactable surfaces 116, 126 along the hair bundle reduces the likelihood of hair damage at the root end while ensuring that the hair at the tip end of the hair bundle is shaped in a desired manner.

In an embodiment, a control signal is output to the closure mechanism 227 such that the clamping pressure applied to the hair between the first hair-contactable surface 116 and the second hair-contactable surface 126 increases as the hair-contacting elements 225 move along the hair bundle from the root end of the hair bundle toward the tip end of the hair bundle. In this way, a pressure gradient may be applied to the hair strand. Such a pressure slope reduces the likelihood of damaging hair at the root end of the hair bundle while ensuring that the hair at the tip end of the hair bundle is shaped in a desired manner. In an embodiment, the pressure slope (or "pressure curve") is customized for the user. For example, the pressure slope may be determined based on one or more user preferences, previous uses of hair styling apparatus 100, sensor data indicative of current uses of hair styling apparatus 100, and the like.

In an embodiment, a hair thickness between the first and second hair-contactable surfaces 116, 126 is determined. In such an embodiment, a control signal is output to the closure mechanism 227 based on the determined hair thickness. For example, the thickness may be determined by measuring the distance between the first and second hair-contactable surfaces 116, 126. In other examples, the thickness of hair is determined by measuring the power consumption associated with heating of hair contacting elements 225. For example, where hair styling apparatus 100 includes heating element 220 configured to heat hair, the thickness of the hair may be determined by measuring the power drawn by heating element 220 during heating. In an embodiment, the thickness is determined based on displacement of the hair styling apparatus 100 from the root end of the hair bundle. In an embodiment, the determined thickness is used to calculate a target distance between the first and second hair-contactable plates 116, 126 and/or a target pressure to be applied to the hair between the first and second hair-contactable plates 116, 126. In an embodiment, the thickness of hair between the first and second hair-contactable plates represents the amount of hair between the first and second hair-contactable plates 116, 126.

In an embodiment, a distance between the first and second hair contacting surfaces 116, 126 is determined. In such an embodiment, a control signal is output to the closure mechanism 227 based on the measured distance. For example, a hall effect sensor may be used to measure the distance between the first and second hair-contactable surfaces 116, 126. The target distance between the first and second hair-contactable plates 116, 126 and/or the target pressure applied to the hair between the first and second hair-contactable plates 116, 126 may depend on the measured distance.

In an embodiment, power consumption associated with heating of hair contacting elements 225 may be monitored during heating of hair via at least one of first hair-contactable surface 116 and second hair-contactable surface 126. A sensor device (e.g., a power meter) may be used to monitor power consumption. In examples where hair styling apparatus 100 includes heating element 220, monitoring power consumption may include monitoring the power drawn by heating element 220 during hair heating. Based on the monitored power consumption, one or more hair damage parameters are calculated that are indicative of damage to the heated hair. In such embodiments, a control signal is output to the closure mechanism 227 based on one or more calculated hair damage parameters. The target distance between the first and second hair-contactable plates 116, 126 and/or the target pressure applied to the hair between the first and second hair-contactable plates 116, 126 may depend on one or more calculated hair damage parameters. For example, if one or more calculated hair damage parameters indicate that damage to hair may occur (e.g., due to excessive clamping pressure), the control signal may cause the clamping pressure to decrease. In some cases, the control signal may cause the clamping pressure to increase if the one or more calculated hair damage parameters indicate that hair has been damaged. Such increased clamping pressure may facilitate styling of damaged hair.

In an embodiment, it is determined whether hair styling apparatus 100 is to be used in accordance with a first styling action (e.g., a hair straightening action) or a second styling action (e.g., a hair curling action) that is different from the first styling action. Such a determination may be made without user input using, for example, a classification algorithm, as described above with reference to fig. 9. In an alternative embodiment, this determination is made based on user input. In an embodiment, the control signal is output to the closure mechanism 227 depending on whether the hair styling apparatus 100 is being used in accordance with the first styling action or the second styling action. The target distance between the first and second hair-contacting plates 116, 126 and/or the target pressure applied to the hair between the first and second hair-contacting plates 116, 126 may depend on the styling behavior determined. For example, the control signal may cause the clamping pressure for straightening hair to be different from the clamping pressure for curling hair. This enables different styling to be achieved while reducing styling time and/or reducing the likelihood of hair damage.

In an embodiment, hair styling apparatus 100 is configured to prevent an external clamping force applied by a user from causing the distance between first and second hair-contactable surfaces 116, 126 to be below a first predetermined threshold distance. In such embodiments, the control signal may cause the distance between the first and second hair-contactable surfaces 116, 126 to be below a first predetermined threshold distance, but the external clamping force applied by the user is not. When the distance between the first and second hair-contactable surfaces 116, 126 is below the first predetermined threshold distance, the distance may be further reduced by the control signal rather than the external clamping force. In this way, the distance between the hair-contactable surfaces 116, 126 may be controlled by the user (e.g., by moving the first arm 110 relative to the second arm 120) when the hair-contactable surfaces 116, 126 are relatively far apart, but may be independently controlled by the controller 210 (e.g., by moving the first hair-contactable surface 116 relative to the first arm 110) when the hair-contactable surfaces 116, 126 are relatively close together. This prevents the external force applied by the user from acting beyond the control signal. In an embodiment, the first predetermined threshold distance is about 2 millimeters.

In an embodiment, it is determined that the distance between the first and second hair-contactable surfaces 116, 126 is less than a second predetermined threshold distance. The second predetermined threshold distance may be the same as or different from the first predetermined threshold distance. In response to determining that the distance between the first and second hair-contactable surfaces 116, 126 is less than the second predetermined threshold distance, a control signal is output to the closure mechanism 227. In this way, control of the closure mechanism 227 is performed by the control signal when the first and second hair contacting surfaces 116, 126 are relatively close together. This ensures that the control of the closure mechanism 227 by the control signal is performed at the proper time, i.e., when hair is being styled by the styling apparatus 100. In embodiments where the arms 110, 120 are movable between the open and closed configurations, a control signal is output to the closure mechanism 227 in response to determining that the arms 110, 120 are in the closed configuration. In an embodiment, if the arms 110, 120 are in the closed configuration, but the hair styling apparatus is not in actual use (e.g., held by a user and/or styling hair), automatic control of the closure mechanism 227 is not performed.

In an embodiment, the distance between the hair-contactable surfaces 116, 126 when the arms 110, 120 are in the closed configuration and after the closing mechanism 227 has moved the first hair-contactable surface 116 is less than the distance between the hair-contactable surfaces 116, 126 before the arms 110, 120 are in the closed configuration and the closing mechanism 227 has moved the first hair-contactable surface 116. In other words, a "manual closed position" is provided wherein the arms 110, 120 are in the closed position, and a separate "automatic closed position" is provided wherein the arms 110, 120 are in the closed position, and additionally the closure mechanism 227 reduces the distance between the hair-contactable surfaces 116, 126 in response to a control signal. Thus, in some embodiments, the automatic closed position is "more closed" than the manual closed position.

In an embodiment, hair styling apparatus 100 is configured to prevent an external clamping force applied by a user from causing first hair-contactable surface 116 to contact second hair-contactable surface 126. For example, the first and second hair-contactable surfaces 116, 126 may be spaced apart when the arms 110, 120 are in the closed configuration. In such embodiments, the control signal output to the closure mechanism 227 may cause the first and second hair contacting surfaces 116, 126 to contact. In this way, the external force applied by the user is prevented from overriding the control signal when controlling the closure mechanism 227.

In an embodiment, the external clamping force applied by the user to push the first arm 110 towards the second arm 120 is determined, e.g. measured. Such external clamping force may be determined using sensor output from a sensor device (e.g., a force and/or pressure sensor). That is, the external clamping force may be measured by one or more sensors. The user applies an external clamping force to urge the first hair-contactable surface 116 toward the second hair-contactable surface 126. In an embodiment, a control signal is output to the closure mechanism 227 based on the determined external clamping force. In this way, the control of the closure mechanism 227, and thus the distance between the hair-contactable surfaces 116, 126, may depend on the external clamping force applied by the user. Thus, while the external clamping force applied by the user does not directly bring the first and second hair contacting surfaces 116, 126 together, it may affect the control of the closure mechanism 227 via the control signal generated by the controller 210.

In an embodiment, a control signal is output to the closure mechanism 227 in response to the measured external clamping force exceeding a predetermined threshold. In this way, the closure mechanism 227 may be controlled by the controller 210 when a user attempts to push the hair-contactable surfaces 116, 126 together. In an embodiment, the target clamping pressure applied by the closure mechanism 227 to the hair between the hair-contactable surfaces 116, 126 is dependent upon the measured external clamping force applied by the user. In other words, when the user attempts to increase the clamping pressure (by increasing the force applied to the arms 110, 120), such increase is determined by the controller 210, thereby increasing the target clamping pressure applied by the closure mechanism 227.

In an embodiment, the measured external clamping force is used to estimate the displacement of hair contacting elements 225 along the hair bundle. For example, the user may attempt to apply a smaller force to the root end of the hair bundle and a larger force to the tip end of the hair bundle, which may be determined by the controller 210. In some examples, the measured external clamping force is used to determine a hair thickness between the first and second hair-contactable surfaces 116, 126. For example, a user may attempt to apply more force when there is less and/or thinner hair between the hair-contactable surfaces 116, 126.

In embodiments where hair styling apparatus 100 includes sensor apparatus 230, sensor apparatus 230 is configured to generate a sensor output indicative of the current use of hair styling apparatus 100, the control signal may be output based on the sensor output. For example, the sensor device 230 may include an IMU 235 and/or a hall effect sensor. As such, closure mechanism 227 may be controlled based on sensor output indicative of the current use of hair styling apparatus 100 (e.g., how the user moves hair styling apparatus 100). In an embodiment, the sensor output is processed to determine one or more of: the speed of the hair contacting elements 225, the displacement of the hair contacting elements 225 from the root end of the hair bundle, the power consumption associated with heating the hair contacting elements 225, whether the arms 110, 120 are in an open or closed configuration, the amount of external clamping force applied by the user, the styling behavior being used, the distance between the first and second hair-contactable surfaces 116, 126, and the hair thickness between the first and second hair-contactable surfaces 116, 126. This enables the closure mechanism 227 to be controlled in a more intelligent and flexible manner.

Fig. 11 illustrates a method 1100 of operating a hair styling apparatus in accordance with an embodiment. Method 1100 may be used to operate hair styling apparatus 100 described above with reference to fig. 1A, 1B and 2. In the embodiment of fig. 11, hair styling apparatus 100 includes a heatable hair contacting element 225 having hair-contactable surfaces 116, 126. The hair contacting elements 225 are operable to apply heat to hair via the hair-contactable surfaces 116, 126. The hair styling apparatus 100 also includes an IMU 235. The IMU 235 is configured to output a signal based on the movement of the hair contacting elements 225. In an embodiment, the method 1100 is performed at least in part by the controller 210.

In step 1110, a signal is received from the IMU 235 indicating movement of the hair contacting elements 225 along the hair bundle between the first end and the second end of the hair bundle.

In step 1120, the received signal is processed to determine the speed of hair contacting elements 225.

In step 1130, heating of hair contacting elements 225 is controlled based on the determined speed.

By controlling the heating of hair contacting elements 225 based on the determined speed of hair contacting elements 225, the heat transfer and/or distribution along the hair strand may be controlled and/or regulated in a more intelligent manner. In addition, the determined speed may be used to predict whether damage to hair will occur, for example, due to excessive heat and/or mechanical pressure applied to the hair. For example, if hair contacting elements 225 are determined to move relatively slowly along the hair bundle, the likelihood of head heating damage increases. Heating of hair contacting elements 225 may be controlled to reduce and/or avoid such damage. For example, heating of hair contacting elements 225 may be controlled to reduce the amount of heat applied to the hair.

In an embodiment, the first end of the hair strand comprises a root end of the hair strand and the second end of the hair strand comprises a tip end of the hair strand. In such an embodiment, the speed at which hair contacting elements 225 move between the root end and the tip end is determined and used in the manner described. The first end may be located at a midpoint of the root or bundle of hair. The second end may be located at a midpoint of the hair tip or hair bundle.

In an embodiment, hair styling apparatus 100 includes heating element 220 operable to heat hair contacting element 225. In such embodiments, controlling heating of hair contacting elements 225 includes controlling heating elements 220. In this way, the heating element 220 may be controlled based on the determined speed.

In an embodiment, the determined speed is used to determine a target heat transfer curve along the hair strand. In such embodiments, heating of hair contacting elements 225 is controlled based on the target heat transfer profile. In this way, a target heat transfer profile suitable for the user may be determined based on how quickly the user moves hair contacting elements 225 along the hair bundle. Different target heat transfer profiles may be used for different speeds of hair contacting elements 225. In an embodiment, the target heat transfer profile comprises a heat transfer profile that varies along the hair strand. For example, the target heat transfer profile may include a temperature slope along the hair strand. The steepness of the temperature slope (i.e., the rate of temperature increase) along the hair strand may depend on the determined speed of hair contacting elements 225. This allows for controlling the heat distribution along the hair strand in an intelligent manner. In an embodiment, hair styling apparatus 100 initially uses a first target heat transfer profile. However, a second, different target heat transfer profile is determined based on the determined speed of hair contacting element 225. The second target heat transfer profile enables a desired styling to be achieved faster and/or reduces the risk of damaging the hair compared to the first target heat transfer profile.

In an embodiment, the amount of energy used to heat hair contacting elements 225 (e.g., the amount of energy applied to heating elements 220) is adjusted based on the determined speed. For example, if it is determined that the speed of hair contacting elements 225 is below a predetermined threshold speed, the amount of energy used to heat hair contacting elements 225 may be reduced. This reduces the likelihood of thermal damage to the hair due to overheating. If the speed is determined to be above the predetermined threshold speed, the amount of energy used to heat hair contacting elements 225 may be increased. This ensures that sufficient heat is applied to the hair to achieve the desired styling.

In an embodiment, heating of hair contacting elements 225 is controlled based on a target operating temperature of hair contacting elements 225. The target operating temperature depends on the determined speed. For example, if hair contacting elements 225 are moving relatively slowly, a relatively low target operating temperature may be used (thereby reducing the likelihood of thermal damage); whereas if hair contacting elements 225 are moved relatively quickly, a relatively high target operating temperature may be used (thereby allowing sufficient heat to be transferred to the hair to achieve the desired styling).

In an embodiment, displacement of hair contacting element 225 from a first end (e.g., a root end) of the hair bundle is determined based on the determined speed. In such embodiments, heating of hair contacting elements 225 is controlled based on the determined displacement from the first end. In an embodiment, the displacement of hair contacting elements 225 is determined using a measurement of the length of the hair strands and a determined speed of hair contacting elements 225. Such a determination may be more accurate than a comparison without using the length and/or speed of the hair strand to determine the displacement from the first end. By controlling the heating of hair contacting elements 225 based on the determined displacement, finer control of the heat distribution along the hair bundle may be achieved. For example, as the hair contacting elements 225 move toward the hair tips, the operating temperature of the hair contacting elements 225 may increase. Providing an increased heat transfer profile from the root end to the tip end reduces the likelihood of thermal damage while ensuring that a sufficiently high temperature is transferred to the hair at the tip end to achieve the desired styling.

In an embodiment, a user interface (e.g., user interface 240 of hair styling apparatus 100) is caused to provide an output based on the determined speed. In an embodiment, the output includes a notification informing the user that the operating temperature of the hair styling apparatus 100 has been adjusted due to the speed of the hair contacting element 225. In an embodiment, the output includes a notification that suggests to the user to adjust the speed of hair contacting element 225.

In an embodiment, the signals received from the IMU 235 are processed using a velocity and/or position estimation algorithm (e.g., including a Madgwick filter). This is described in more detail with reference to fig. 3 above. In an embodiment, as described above, a machine learning model is used to process the received signals.

In embodiments, such as where hair styling apparatus 100 does not include heating element 220, heating of hair contacting element 225 may be controlled by directly applying energy to hair contacting element 225. In either case, the heating of hair contacting elements 225 is controlled based on the determined speed.

Fig. 12 illustrates a method 1200 of operating a hair styling apparatus in accordance with an embodiment. Method 1200 may be used to operate hair styling apparatus 100 described above with reference to fig. 1A, 1B and 2. In the embodiment of fig. 12, hair styling apparatus 100 includes a heatable hair contacting element 225 having hair-contactable surfaces 116, 126. The hair contacting elements 225 are operable to apply heat to hair via the hair-contactable surfaces 116, 126. The hair styling apparatus 100 also includes an IMU 235. The IMU 235 is configured to output a signal based on the movement of the hair contacting elements 225. In an embodiment, the method 1200 is performed at least in part by the controller 210.

In step 1210, a signal is received from the IMU 235 indicating movement of the hair contacting elements 225 along the user's hair bundle between the first and second ends of the hair bundle.

In step 1220, the received signal is processed to determine the speed of hair contacting elements 225.

In step 1230, the difference between the heat transfer profile achievable by the hair contacting element 225 moving at a determined speed along the hair strand and the target heat transfer profile along the hair strand is determined.

In step 1240, based on the determined difference, the user interface is caused to provide an output related to the determined speed of hair contacting element 225.

By providing an output at the user interface based on the difference between the heat transfer profile achievable by the hair contacting element 225 moving at the determined speed and the target heat transfer profile, the user may be notified that such a difference exists. That is, the user may be notified that the target heat transfer profile cannot be achieved due to the speed of the hair contacting elements 225.

In an embodiment, the output provided by the user interface includes a notification informing the user to adjust the speed of hair contacting elements 225. For example, the user may be prompted to accelerate or decelerate. Prompting the user to adjust the speed of hair contacting element 225 enables hair styling apparatus 100 to achieve a target heat transfer profile. This increases the likelihood of achieving the desired styling while reducing styling time and/or reducing the likelihood of hair damage.

In an embodiment, the target heat transfer profile comprises a heat transfer profile that varies along the hair strand. That is, the target operating temperature of hair contacting element 225 may vary along the hair strand. For example, the target heat transfer profile may include a heat transfer profile that increases along the hair strand from the root end to the tip end. When such a target heat transfer profile is achieved, the likelihood of hair damage at the root end of the hair bundle is reduced, while ensuring that sufficient heat is applied to the hair at the tip end of the hair bundle to achieve the desired styling.

In an embodiment, the speed of the identification hair contacting element 225 is outside of the target speed range. The target speed range defines the speed at which the hair contacting element 225 can achieve a target heat transfer profile along the hair strand. For example, the speed of hair contacting element 225 may be below the target speed range (i.e., too slow), or may be above the target speed range (i.e., too fast). If hair contacting elements 225 are determined to move too slowly and/or too fast to achieve the target heat transfer profile, the user is notified via the user interface. The user may be prompted to adjust the speed of hair contacting elements 225 such that the speed of hair contacting elements 225 is within a target speed range. In an embodiment, a target speed range is identified. Different target speed ranges may be associated with different target heat transfer curves.

In an embodiment, a determination is made as to whether hair styling apparatus 100 is being used in accordance with a first styling action or a second styling action that is different from the first styling action. In such embodiments, the target heat transfer profile depends on whether hair styling apparatus 100 is being used according to the first styling action or the second styling action. For example, a first target heat transfer profile may be used if the hair styling apparatus 100 is used for hair straightening, and a second target heat transfer profile may be used if the hair styling apparatus 100 is used for hair curling. In an embodiment, a classification algorithm is used to determine styling behavior, as described above. In an alternative embodiment, the target heat transfer curve is independent of the modeling behavior used.

In an embodiment, determining whether hair styling apparatus 100 is being used according to the first styling action or the second styling action is based on signals received from IMU 235. In this manner, movement of hair contacting elements 225 is used to identify the current styling behavior of hair styling apparatus 100. For example, hair curling may involve a greater amount of rotation of hair contacting elements 225 than hair straightening. Such movement may be analyzed using data from the IMU 235.

In an embodiment, hair styling apparatus 100 includes a user interface. For example, an output related to the determined speed of hair contacting elements 225 may be provided via user interface 240 of hair styling apparatus 100. This may increase the likelihood that the user will quickly receive an output, as compared to the case where the user interface is not included in hair styling apparatus 100. The output may include an audio output, a visual output, and/or a tactile output.

In an embodiment, the user interface is included in a remote device, such as a mobile device or docking station communicatively coupled to the hair styling device 100. In such an embodiment, a signal is output to the remote device to cause the user interface to provide an output. The user interface on such a remote device may be more versatile than the user interface on hair styling device 100 itself. For example, a larger display may be provided on the remote device than can be accommodated by hair styling device 100. Since hair styling apparatus 100 is typically hand-held and has various other components, such as heating elements and hair-contactable surfaces, the amount of physical space available on hair styling apparatus 100 for a user interface may be limited.

In an embodiment, method 1200 includes determining a heat transfer profile achievable by hair contacting elements 225 moving at a determined speed. In alternative embodiments, the heat transfer profile achievable by hair contacting elements 225 is not determined. As such, the determination performed in step 1230 may include quantifying the difference between the achievable heat transfer curve and the target heat transfer curve, but may alternatively include identifying only that the difference exists, i.e., that the target heat transfer curve cannot be achieved at the current speed.

In an embodiment, the first end comprises a root end of a hair strand and the second end comprises a tip end of the hair strand. Thus, in an embodiment, the signal received from the IMU 235 is indicative of movement of the hair contacting element 225 between the root end of the hair bundle and the tip end of the hair bundle. In such embodiments, the speed at which hair contacting elements 225 move between the root end and the tip end of the hair bundle is determined and used in the manner described.

Fig. 13 illustrates a method 1300 of operating a hair styling apparatus in accordance with an embodiment. Method 1300 may be used to operate hair styling apparatus 100 described above with reference to fig. 1A, 1B and 2. In the embodiment of fig. 13, hair styling apparatus 100 includes a sensor apparatus 230, sensor apparatus 230 being configured to generate a sensor output in accordance with at least one usage characteristic of hair styling apparatus 100 indicative of the current use of hair styling apparatus 100. In an embodiment, the method 1300 is performed at least in part by the controller 210.

In step 1310, a sensor output is received from the sensor device 230.

In step 1320, the sensor output is processed to determine one or more hair damage parameters. One or more hair damage parameters are indicative of damage to hair heated by hair styling apparatus 100.

In step 1330, the user interface is caused to provide an output in accordance with one or more hair damage parameters during heating of hair by hair styling apparatus 100.

By having the user interface provide an output during hair heating rather than after the hair styling phase is completed, feedback may be provided in substantially real-time. This allows the user to be informed that the hair currently being heated is damaged, or may be damaged. In this way, more meaningful information may be communicated to the user more timely than other methods. In addition, such feedback may prompt the user to take corrective action, such as changing the speed and/or operating temperature of hair styling apparatus 100 to reduce the likelihood of damage and/or further damage to the heated hair.

In an embodiment, the one or more hair damage parameters are indicative of pre-existing damage to the hair. In an embodiment, the one or more hair damage parameters are indicative of predicted damage due to hair styling apparatus 100 heating the hair. In embodiments, one or more hair damage parameters are indicative of pre-existing damage and predicted damage. In an embodiment, the one or more hair damage parameters are indicative of at least one of physical damage, thermal damage, and chemical damage to the hair.

In an embodiment, the output provided by the user interface includes audio, visual, and/or tactile output. For example, the output may be provided via a display, speakers, and/or haptic actuators.

In an embodiment, the user interface is included in a remote device. The user interface on such a remote device may be more versatile than the user interface on hair styling device 100 itself. For example, a larger display may be provided on the remote device than can be accommodated by hair styling device 100. Since hair styling apparatus 100 is typically hand-held and may have various other components, such as heating elements and hair-contactable surfaces, the amount of space available on hair styling apparatus 100 for a user interface may be limited. In such an embodiment, a signal is output to the remote device to cause the user interface to provide an output. Such signals may be transmitted wirelessly to a remote device, for example, via bluetooth technology.

In an alternative embodiment, hair styling apparatus 100 includes a user interface. By providing a user interface on hair styling apparatus 100, a user may generate and receive output faster than if the user interface were not included on hair styling apparatus 100, as the need for communication between different devices is avoided. Furthermore, providing a user interface on hair styling apparatus 100 may increase the likelihood that a user will quickly receive feedback. For example, during use of hair styling apparatus 100, the user may not be in the same location as the remote device, and thus the user may not immediately see/hear the notification on the remote device.

In an embodiment, the output provided by the user interface includes a notification informing the user that the feedback message is available on the remote device. In such embodiments, both the hair styling apparatus 100 and the remote device include a user interface. However, the user interface on the remote device may be more functional, complex, and/or larger than the user interface on hair styling device 100. By informing the user that a feedback message is available on the remote device, the user is prompted to view the remote device (which may be in a different location of the user in some cases) to receive the feedback. For example, the output provided on hair styling apparatus 100 may include flashing lights, audio, and/or vibrations. The feedback message on the remote device may include a text message, pictographic message, audio message, etc. In an embodiment, the controller 210 of the hair styling apparatus 100 causes the remote device to provide feedback messages.

In an embodiment, the output provided by the user interface includes an alert related to one or more hair damage parameters. For example, such an alarm may indicate that the currently heated hair portion has been damaged or may be damaged by heating. In an embodiment, the alarm indicates a type of damage to the hair, such as chemical, thermal or mechanical damage.

In an embodiment, the output provided by the user interface includes a notification informing the user to take corrective action. For example, such a notification may suggest that the user adjust the speed of hair styling apparatus 100 and/or the operating temperature of hair styling apparatus 100. In an embodiment, the notification includes a suggested operating temperature. By informing the user to take corrective action substantially in real time, damage to the heated hair and/or further damage may be prevented.

In an embodiment, one or more settings of hair styling apparatus 100 are changed based on one or more hair damage parameters. One or more settings are changed by the hair styling apparatus 100 itself, for example by the controller 210. One or more settings are altered to prevent damage and/or to prevent further damage to the heated hair. In some such embodiments, the output provided by the user interface includes a notification informing the user that one or more settings have been changed. In this way, hair styling apparatus 100 may autonomously change its settings based on one or more hair damage parameters before informing the user that such changes have been made. This may be faster than relying on the user to change the settings of the hair styling apparatus 100, thereby reducing the likelihood of further damage to the hair. In an embodiment, the one or more settings include an operating temperature of hair styling apparatus 100. For example, the operating temperature may be reduced to prevent damage and/or further damage to the heated hair.

In an embodiment, for example where hair styling apparatus 100 includes IMU 235, at least one usage feature indicates movement of hair styling apparatus 100. For example, the at least one usage characteristic may be indicative of the speed of the hair styling apparatus 100. In this manner, one or more hair damage parameters may be determined based on the speed of hair styling apparatus 100. For example, if the speed of the hair styling apparatus 100 is determined to be above a predetermined threshold speed (i.e., moving too fast), the one or more hair damage parameters may indicate a relatively high likelihood of mechanical damage to the hair. If the speed of the hair styling apparatus 100 is determined to be below a predetermined threshold speed (i.e., moving too slowly), the one or more hair damage parameters may indicate a relatively high likelihood of thermally damaging the hair. In an embodiment, the at least one usage characteristic is indicative of a displacement of the hair styling apparatus 100 along the hair bundle from the root end of the hair bundle. In this way, one or more hair damage parameters may be determined based on such displacement.

In embodiments where hair styling apparatus 100 includes hair contacting element 225, hair contacting element 225 includes opposing first and second hair-contactable surfaces, hair contacting element 225 is movable between an open configuration and a closed configuration, and at least one usage feature may indicate whether hair contacting element 225 is in the open configuration or in the closed configuration. In this way, one or more hair damage parameters may be determined based on whether hair contacting elements 225 are in an open configuration or a closed configuration. For example, if hair contacting elements 225 are in a closed configuration for an extended period of time, the likelihood of mechanical and/or thermal damage to the hair may increase.

In an embodiment, the sensor device 230 includes a temperature sensor configured to sense an operating temperature of the hair styling apparatus 100 (e.g., an operating temperature of the hair contact member 225). In such embodiments, the at least one usage characteristic includes an operating temperature of hair styling apparatus 100. In this manner, one or more hair damage parameters may be determined based on the operating temperature of hair styling apparatus 100. For example, if the operating temperature of hair styling apparatus 100 is determined to be above a predetermined threshold (i.e., too hot), the likelihood of thermally damaging the hair may increase.

In embodiments where the hair styling apparatus includes heating element 220, sensor apparatus 230 includes a power sensor configured to sense the power drawn by heating element 220 during hair heating. In such an embodiment, the at least one usage feature includes the power drawn by the heating element 220. As such, one or more hair damage parameters may be determined based on the power drawn by heating element 220 during hair heating. As discussed above with reference to fig. 8, due to the different moisture holding properties of damaged and undamaged hair, a measure of hair damage may be obtained by monitoring the power consumption associated with hair contacting elements 225 for heating hair (e.g., the power consumed by heating element 220). For example, the power required by the heating element 220 to heat hair to a given temperature may be relatively high (retain less moisture) for damaged hair and relatively low (retain more moisture) for undamaged hair. In alternative embodiments, for example, where hair styling apparatus 100 does not include heating element 220, the power sensor may sense the power drawn by hair contact member 225 itself during hair heating.

The at least one usage characteristic may include a combination of one or more of the factors described above. For example, one or more hair damage parameters may be determined based on a combination of the operating temperature and speed of hair styling apparatus 100.

It is to be understood that any feature described in relation to any one embodiment and/or aspect may be used alone, or in combination with other features described, and may also be used in combination with one or more features of any other of the embodiments and/or aspects, or any combination of any other of the embodiments and/or aspects. For example, it will be appreciated that features and/or steps described with respect to a given one of the methods 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1300 may be included instead of or in addition to features and/or steps described with respect to the methods 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1300.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, hair styling apparatus 100 includes a controller 210. The controller 210 is configured to perform the various methods described herein. In an embodiment, the controller includes a processing system. Such a processing system may include one or more processors and/or memory. Each device, component, or function, such as sensor device 230, user interface 240, and/or machine learning agent, as described with respect to any of the examples described herein, may similarly include a processor or may be included in a device that includes a processor. One or more aspects of the embodiments described herein include a process performed by a device. In some examples, the device includes one or more processors configured to perform these processes. In this regard, the embodiments may be implemented at least in part by computer software stored in (non-transitory) memory and executable by a processor, or by hardware, or by a combination of tangibly stored software and hardware (and tangibly stored firmware). The embodiments also extend to computer programs, in particular computer programs on or in a carrier, adapted to put the above embodiments into practice. The program may be in the form of non-transitory source code, object code, or any other non-transitory form suitable for use in the implementation of the process according to embodiments. The carrier may be any entity or device capable of carrying the program, such as RAM, ROM, or an optical storage device, etc.

The one or more processors of the processing system may include a Central Processing Unit (CPU). The one or more processors may include a Graphics Processing Unit (GPU). The one or more processors may include one or more of a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), a Programmable Logic Device (PLD), or a Complex Programmable Logic Device (CPLD). The one or more processors may include an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC). Those skilled in the art will appreciate that many other types of devices may be used to provide one or more processors in addition to the examples provided. The one or more processors may include a plurality of co-located processors or a plurality of differently located processors. Operations performed by the one or more processors may be performed by one or more of hardware, firmware, and software. It should be appreciated that the processing system may include more, fewer, and/or different components than those described.

The techniques described herein may be implemented in software or hardware or may be implemented using a combination of software and hardware. They may include configuring a device to perform and/or support any or all of the techniques described herein. Although at least some aspects of the examples described herein with reference to the drawings include computer processes executing in a processing system or processor, the examples described herein also extend to computer programs, e.g., computer programs on or in a carrier, adapted for putting the examples into practice. The carrier may be any entity or device capable of carrying the program. The carrier may comprise a computer-readable storage medium. Examples of tangible computer readable storage media include, but are not limited to, optical media (e.g., CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, or Blu-ray), flash memory cards, floppy diskettes, or hard disks, or any other medium capable of storing computer readable instructions, such as firmware or microcode, in at least one ROM or RAM or Programmable ROM (PROM) chip.

In the foregoing description, integers or elements are mentioned which have known, obvious or foreseeable equivalents, then such equivalents are herein incorporated as if individually set forth. Reference should be made to the claims for determining the true scope of the disclosure, which should be construed to encompass any such equivalents. The reader will also appreciate that integers or features of the disclosure that are described as preferable, advantageous, convenient or the like are optional and do not limit the scope of the independent claims. Moreover, it should be appreciated that these optional integers or features, while potentially beneficial in some embodiments of the disclosure, may not be desirable in other embodiments and thus may not be present.

Claims

1. A hair styling apparatus comprising:

a heatable hair contacting member comprising opposed first and second hair-contactable surfaces, the hair contacting member being operable to apply heat to hair via at least one of the first and second hair-contactable surfaces;

a closing mechanism operable to move the first hair-contactable surface relative to the second hair-contactable surface; and

A controller configured to output a control signal to the closure mechanism,

wherein the closing mechanism is configured to adjust a distance between the first hair-contactable surface and the second hair-contactable surface in response to receipt of the control signal.

2. The hair styling apparatus of claim 1 wherein the controller is configured to:

identifying a target distance between the first hair-contactable surface and the second hair-contactable surface; and

and outputting a control signal to the closing mechanism based on the target distance.

3. The hair styling apparatus of any one of the preceding claims wherein the controller is configured to:

identifying a target clamping pressure to be applied to hair between the first hair-contactable surface and the second hair-contactable surface; and

a control signal is output to the closing mechanism based on the target clamping pressure.

4. The hair styling apparatus of any one of the preceding claims wherein the controller is configured to:

first, determining that the hair contacting element is moving along a hair strand from a root end of the hair strand toward a tip end of the hair strand; and

In response to determining that the hair contacting elements are moving along the hair strand, a control signal is output to the closure mechanism.

5. The hair styling apparatus of claim 4 wherein the controller is configured to:

second, determining displacement of the hair contacting elements from the root end of the hair bundle; and

a control signal is output to the closure mechanism based on the determined displacement.

6. The hair styling apparatus of claim 4 or 5 wherein the controller is configured to output a control signal to the closing mechanism such that the distance between the first and second hair contactable surfaces decreases as the hair contacting elements move along the hair bundle from the root end of the hair bundle towards the tip end of the hair bundle.

7. The hair styling apparatus of any one of claims 4 to 6 wherein the controller is configured to output a control signal to the closing mechanism to cause the clamping pressure applied to the hair between the first and second hair contactable surfaces to increase as the hair contacting elements move along the hair bundle from the root end of the hair bundle towards the tip end of the hair bundle.

8. The hair styling apparatus of any one of the preceding claims wherein the controller is configured to:

third, determining a hair thickness between the first hair-contactable surface and the second hair-contactable surface; and

a control signal is output to the closing mechanism based on the determined hair thickness.

9. The hair styling apparatus of any one of the preceding claims wherein the controller is configured to:

fourth, determining a distance between the first hair-contactable surface and the second hair-contactable surface; and

a control signal is output to the closing mechanism based on the measured distance.

10. The hair styling apparatus of any one of the preceding claims wherein the controller is configured to:

monitoring power consumption associated with heating of the hair contacting elements during heating of hair via at least one of the first hair-contactable surface and the second hair-contactable surface;

based on the monitored power consumption, calculating one or more hair damage parameters indicative of damage to the heated hair; and

a control signal is output to the closure mechanism based on the one or more hair damage parameters.

11. The hair styling apparatus of any one of the preceding claims wherein the controller is configured to:

fifth, determining whether the hair styling apparatus is being used according to a first styling action or a second styling action different from the first styling action; and

a control signal is output to the closure mechanism depending on whether the hair styling apparatus is being used in accordance with the first styling action or the second styling action.

12. The hair styling apparatus of any one of the preceding claims wherein the hair styling apparatus is configured to prevent an external clamping force applied by a user from causing the distance between the first and second hair contactable surfaces to be below a first predetermined threshold distance.

13. The hair styling apparatus of any one of the preceding claims wherein the controller is configured to:

sixth, determining that a distance between the first hair-contactable surface and the second hair-contactable surface is less than a second predetermined threshold distance; and

a control signal is output to the closing mechanism in response to determining that the distance between the first hair-contactable surface and the second hair-contactable surface is less than a second predetermined threshold distance.

14. The hair styling apparatus of any one of the preceding claims wherein the hair styling apparatus is configured to prevent external clamping forces applied by a user from causing the first hair contactable surface to contact the second hair contactable surface.

15. The hair styling apparatus of any preceding claim,

wherein the closing mechanism comprises one or more stepper motors, and

wherein the closing mechanism is configured to actuate the one or more stepper motors to move the first hair-contactable surface relative to the second hair-contactable surface in response to receipt of a control signal.

16. The hair styling apparatus of any preceding claim,

wherein the closure mechanism comprises one or more inflatable bladders adjacent the first hair-contactable surface,

wherein the closing mechanism is configured to control inflation of the one or more inflatable bladders to move the first hair-contactable surface relative to the second hair-contactable surface in response to receipt of a control signal.

17. The hair styling apparatus of any one of the preceding claims wherein the hair contact member comprises:

A first arm comprising a first hair-contactable surface; and

a second arm movably coupled to the first arm, the second arm including a second hair-contactable surface.

18. The hair styling apparatus of claim 17 wherein the closing mechanism is configured to move the first hair contactable surface relative to the first arm in response to receipt of a control signal.

19. The hair styling apparatus of claim 17 or 18 wherein the closing mechanism is configured to move the first arm relative to the second arm in response to receipt of a control signal.

20. The hair styling apparatus of any one of the preceding claims wherein the controller is configured to:

seventh, determining an external clamping force applied by a user to push the first arm toward the second arm; and

a control signal is output to the closing mechanism based on the measured external clamping force.

21. The hair styling apparatus of any preceding claim,

wherein the hair styling apparatus comprises a sensor device configured to generate a sensor output indicative of current use of the hair styling apparatus, and

Wherein the controller is configured to output a control signal based on the sensor output.

22. The hair styling apparatus of claim 21 and at least one of claims 4, 5, 8, 9, 11, 13 and 19 wherein at least one of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth and seventh determining steps is performed based on the generated sensor output.

23. The hair styling apparatus of claim 21 or 22 wherein the sensor apparatus comprises an inertial measurement unit IMU.

24. The hair styling apparatus of any one of claims 21 to 23 wherein the sensor apparatus comprises a hall effect sensor.

25. The hair styling apparatus of any one of the preceding claims wherein the hair styling apparatus comprises a hair straightening apparatus and/or a hair curling apparatus.

26. A method of operating a hair styling apparatus, the hair styling apparatus comprising:

a heatable hair contacting member comprising opposed first and second hair-contactable surfaces, the hair contacting member being operable to apply heat to hair via at least one of the first and second hair-contactable surfaces; and

A closing mechanism operable to move the first hair-contactable surface relative to the second hair-contactable surface;

the method comprises the following steps:

outputting a control signal to the closing mechanism; and

at the closing mechanism, in response to receipt of a control signal, a distance between the first hair-contactable surface and the second hair-contactable surface is adjusted.

27. A computer program comprising a set of instructions that, when executed by a computerized device, cause the computerized device to perform a method of operating a hair styling apparatus, the hair styling apparatus comprising:

the method comprises the following steps:

a control signal is output to the closing mechanism to cause the closing mechanism to adjust a distance between the first hair-contactable surface and the second hair-contactable surface in response to receipt of the control signal.