DE102017200838B3 - Reflective spiral cup holder and method for its production - Google Patents

Abstract

There is proposed a pigtail holder (110) for stabilizing a pigtail and a method of manufacturing a pigtail holder (110) for stabilizing a pigtail. The pigtail holder (110) comprises an endless helix (112) of at least one plastic material (114), in particular a toroidal helix (118), wherein the plastic material (114) is at least partially transparent, wherein in the endless helix (112) at least one of the plastic material (114) surrounded core (124) of at least one reflective material (126) is embedded.

Description

Field of the invention

The invention relates to a pigtail holder and a method for producing the same. Such pigtail holders are used in particular for fashionable purposes or for fixing the hair, especially a hair pot, during physical activities such as sports.

State of the art

Various utensils for fixing a hairstyle, in particular a hair pot, are known from the prior art. In addition to hair ties, hair clips and hair bands spiral-shaped pigtail holders have been available for some time, which include a helix for receiving the hair pot.

For example, describes US 2,924,228 a hairpin with a helically wound spring made from a single piece of resilient material. This hairclip comprises a plurality of turns, all of which have substantially the same diameter.

US 2014/0096788 A1 describes a Haarutensil which has a special coil design. The hair utensil comprises a substantially circular member having a plurality of coil structures. In this way, a closed helix loop is formed.

DE 10 2015 215 832 A1 describes a hair styling tool with a circular continuous helix made of an elastic material. The endless helix has a total of six to eight turns, which abut each other at an inner area.

US 5,664,589 describes a hair accessory device. The hair accessory device comprises a flexible element encased in non-cellular vinyl plastisol which is light, soft and cuddly. The flexible element comprises a wire in which its relatively pointed ends are buried to create a resulting flexible element with blunt ends. In this way, the flexible element does not push through its vinyl plastisol cladding. A method of manufacturing the hair accessory device is also disclosed.

US 2015/0090288 A1 describes a textured elastic hair band comprising an elastic core substrate, a sheath of textile fibers covering the elastic core substrate, and flocking fibers attached to the sheath in which the elastic core substrate has a loop or ring shape. Furthermore, D3 describes a process for producing a textured elastic hair band.

JP H09-313 240 A describes a personal ornament. The personal ornament is to stand out with a reflector by reflecting a light as a traffic accident prevention means during the night to protect a person by providing a reflector on the surface of the personal ornament main body. On the surface of the main body of a hair band, a reflector is arranged, which is cut into a size which is suitable for the width and the length of the hair band. A fabric is attached so that both ends of the reflector can not be peeled off.

CN 204 317 811 U describes a light-reflecting hair band having a hair band body and a yarn layer. The hair band body is made of elastic material and the two ends of the hair band body are bent inwardly to form a hair band opening. The yarn layer covers the hair band body outside, so that a cushioning function is achieved; the yarn layer is formed by weaving light-reflecting yarns and simple yarns so that the yarn layer can reflect light in the event of night lighting to protect a user.

However, the known hair implements still contain considerable potential for improvement. Thus, in particular the visual and designerischen effects achievable by means of known hair implements are limited. It would be desirable, for example, to provide hair utensils which permanently provide a reflective visual appearance, for example, to allow appropriate designerische effects or to ensure due to the reflective effect increased visibility of the wearer at dusk and night, for example, in traffic. However, such reflective optical phenomena are usually associated with a comparatively high manufacturing effort, subject to abrasion or have poor reflective properties.

Object of the invention

It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a pigtail, which addresses the above technical challenge. In particular, a pigtail holder is to be provided, which is as simple as possible to manufacture and has as visible as possible reflective properties which are as long as possible.

Disclosure of the invention

This object is achieved by a pigtail holder and a method for producing the same, with the features of the independent claims. Advantageous developments, which can be implemented individually or in any combination, are shown in the dependent claims.

Hereinafter, the terms "having", "having", "including" or "including" or any grammatical variations thereof are used in a non-exclusive manner. Accordingly, these terms may refer to situations in which, in addition to the features introduced by these terms, there are no other features or to situations in which one or more other features are present. For example, the expression "A has B", "A has B", "A includes B" or "A includes B" can both refer to the situation in which, apart from B, there is no further element in A. (ie a situation in which A consists exclusively of B), as well as the situation in which, in addition to B, one or more further elements in A are present, for example element C, elements C and D or even further elements ,

It is further to be understood that the terms "at least one" and "one or more" and grammatical variations of these terms, when used and to be used in connection with one or more elements or features, are intended to provide the element or feature in a single or multiple way can usually be used only once, for example, at the first introduction of the feature or element. In a subsequent re-mention of the feature or element, the corresponding term "at least one" or "one or more" is generally no longer used, without limiting the possibility that the feature or element may be single or multiple.

Furthermore, the terms "preferably", "in particular", "for example" or similar terms are used below in connection with optional features, without restricting alternative embodiments thereof. Thus, features introduced by these terms are optional features, and it is not intended by these features to limit the scope of the claims and, in particular, the independent claims. Thus, as those skilled in the art will recognize, the invention may be practiced using other embodiments. Similarly, features introduced by "in one embodiment of the invention" or by "in one embodiment of the invention" are to be understood as optional features without, however, being construed as limiting alternative embodiments or the scope of the independent claims. Furthermore, these introductory expressions are intended to preserve all possibilities of combining the features introduced thereby with other features, be they optional or non-optional features.

In a first aspect of the present invention, a pigtail holder for stabilizing a hair pot is proposed. In the context of the present invention, a pigtail holder is generally understood to mean a device which is set up in order to hold a hairstyle, in particular a hair pot, at least temporarily mechanically in a desired configuration. In particular, this may be an at least partially annular designed and preferably flexible element, which preferably has at least one opening to receive a hair pot and preferably clamped.

The pigtail holder comprises an endless helix of at least one plastic material. Under an endless helix is to understand a self-contained body, which at least partially and preferably completely has a helical shape. Under a helix is generally a body to understand, which is composed of a plurality of adjacent and merging into each other loops substantially the same diameter, so for example, loops whose diameter is preferably not more than 50%, in particular not more than 30 %, not more than 20% or even not more than 10% by a mean diameter of the loops varies. In particular, the helix can be a toroidal helix, ie a helix with loops whose axes together form a torus or whose axes are arranged tangentially to a torus.

The plastic material is configured at least partially transparent. In the context of the present invention, "at least partially transparent" means complete or partial transparency for light in the visible spectral range, ie in the spectral range from 380 nm to 780 nm. The transparency may, for example, in at least a partial spectrum of this visible spectral range or in the entire visible spectral range at least 10%, preferably at least 30% or even at least 50%. In particular, the plastic material may be a clear plastic material. The plastic can be colorless or colored.

In the endless helix, at least one core of at least one reflective material surrounded by the plastic material is embedded. A core is generally understood to mean an element which is embedded within a surrounding material or element. In particular, the endless helix may have exactly one core, which preferably extends continuously along the entire endless helix. For example, the core may be arranged substantially centrally along a respective extension direction of the endless helix.

In this case, a reflective material is generally to be understood as meaning a material or material mixture which, in isolation or in cooperation with a surrounding matrix, has reflective properties, in particular for visible light in the abovementioned spectral range. In particular, the reflective material alone or in cooperation with the surrounding plastic material may have a reflectance, defined as the ratio of the reflected to the incident light intensity, of at least 5%, in particular of at least 10% and particularly preferably of at least 20%. For example, the reflective material may comprise a metallic material which inherently has a high reflectivity. Alternatively or additionally, however, the reflective material can also, for example, comprise a material which has a difference in the refractive index from the surrounding plastic material, so that a reflection occurs due to this difference in the refractive index. For example, the reflective material may comprise at least one glass, for example glass spheres, in particular glass microspheres with a diameter or equivalent diameter, for example in the micrometer range. For example, the glass or generally the reflective material may have a lower refractive index than the plastic material. For example, a glass having a refractive index of 1.46-1.52 and a plastic material having a refractive index above the refractive index of the reflective material, for example a refractive index> 1.52, may be used. For example, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) can be used as a plastic material, which usually has a refractive index of 1.41. Furthermore, for example, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) can be used as a plastic material, which usually has a refractive index of 1.54. However, other constellations or combinations are possible.

The core may in particular also be configured as an endless helix or form an endless helix. For example, the core may be configured in the form of a band and, for example, form a continuous band through the endless helix of the pigtail holder.

The endless helix of the braid holder may in particular be a toroidal helix. The toroidal helix may in particular have a large diameter of 1.5 cm to 7 cm, in particular from 2 cm to 5.5 cm, for example a large diameter of 4 cm, 4.5 cm, 5 cm or 5.5 cm. By a large diameter is generally a double distance between a piercing point of a rotation axis of the torus through a plane of the torus and a point on a circle to understand, which runs through the centers of the loops or turns. However, other dimensions are possible in principle. A loop diameter of the loops of the helix may be in particular 0.3 cm to 1.5 cm. A loop diameter can generally be understood to be a double distance between a center of a loop and a center of the main body in the region of this loop. However, other dimensions are possible in principle. However, the dimensions mentioned have proven to be particularly suitable for reliably maintaining a hairstyle.

The core may in particular be surrounded on all sides by the plastic material. For example, the core may be radially completely enclosed by the plastic material and, in particular, the core may be continuous and uninterrupted.

The plastic material may in particular comprise at least one thermoplastic plastic material or be made entirely of a thermoplastic material. In particular, the plastic material can be or have thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). Furthermore, the plastic material may be or have polyvinyl chloride (PVC). However, other plastics are basically used. However, thermoplastic polyurethane has been found to be advantageous in terms of processability. In particular, the plastic material may be designed to be completely or partially deformable, so that in particular an endless helix having the plastic material has resilient properties. Thus, in particular, the plastic material may be completely or partially elastic. Alternatively or additionally, however, a spring action of the endless helix can also be achieved by the windings.

The reflective material may be a single material or a mixture of materials. For example, the reflective material may also comprise at least one further plastic material which is chemically different from the plastic material surrounding the core is. This further plastic material may comprise, for example, a polyethylene terephthalate (PET). However, other embodiments are possible in principle. For example, the material of the core may comprise at least one further plastic material and reflective particles, as will be explained in more detail below, for example PET and reflective glass particles.

As stated above, the reflective material may in particular comprise reflective particles. The reflective property can result from the particles themselves or from an interaction with the environment of these particles. The particles are preferably arranged so tightly in the core that they can no longer be resolved with the naked eye and preferably form a dense band. The reflective material may in particular comprise microspheres, preferably glass microspheres.

• - 25% ± 10% Polyethylenterephthalat; und
• - 55% ± 10% Glas-Mikrokugeln.

By way of example, the following composition of the reflective material has proven to be well suited for practical use, the following values being given in percent by volume:

• 25% ± 10% polyethylene terephthalate; and
• - 55% ± 10% glass microspheres.

However, other compositions are possible in principle.

• - 25% ± 10% Polyethylenterephthalat;
• - 55% ± 10% Glas-Mikrokugeln; und
• - 20 Vol.-% ± 10 Vol.-% Klebstoff.

The reflective material may further comprise at least one adhesive. The adhesive may be used alternatively or in addition to the above-mentioned optional further plastic material of the core. Alternatively, however, the adhesive may also be wholly or partially identical to the above-mentioned optional further plastic material of the core. The adhesive may, for example, be present in a concentration of 20% by volume ± 10% by volume in the reflective material. For example, the composition of the reflective material may be designed as follows, the values again being given in volume percent:

• 25% ± 10% polyethylene terephthalate;
• - 55% ± 10% glass microspheres; and
• - 20 Vol .-% ± 10 Vol .-% adhesive.

The specified tolerances are to be understood as meaning that the total composition of the three ingredients mentioned is preferably added up to 100% or to a lower value. Thus, the substances mentioned can form the reflective material as a whole, or one or more further substances can be provided.

The core may in particular be arranged along a spiral axis of the endless helix. The core may in particular be enclosed radially by the plastic material.

In a further aspect of the present invention, a method of making a braid holder for stabilizing a hair pot is proposed. The method can be used in particular to produce a plait holder according to the invention, for example according to one or more of the embodiments described above and / or according to one of the embodiments described in more detail below.

The method comprises the following method steps. These process steps can be carried out, for example, in the order mentioned. However, a different order is possible in principle. Furthermore, two or more or even all process steps can be carried out temporally in parallel or temporally overlapping. Furthermore, one, two, several or even all process steps can be carried out once or several times repeatedly.

1. a) Formen mindestens eines Formlings, wobei der Formling einen Kern mindestens eines reflektierenden Materials und mindestens ein den Kern umgebendes Kunststoffmaterial aufweist, wobei das Kunststoffmaterial zumindest teilweise transparent ausgestaltet ist;
2. b) Wickeln des Formlings zu einer Helix;
3. c) Aushärten des Kunststoffmaterials mit dem Kern; und
4. d) Formung der Helix zu einer Endloshelix, insbesondere einer toroidalen Helix.

The method comprises the following steps:

1. a) molding at least one molded article, wherein the molding comprises a core of at least one reflective material and at least one plastic material surrounding the core, wherein the plastic material is at least partially transparent;
2. b) winding the molding into a helix;
3. c) curing the plastic material with the core; and
4. d) shaping the helix into an endless helix, in particular a toroidal helix.

In this case, a shaped article is generally understood to mean an intermediate product which has a predetermined shape. The molding may be configured in particular strand-shaped. Under a strand-like molding is a molding to understand, which is designed elongated and which preferably has a constant cross-section transversely, in particular perpendicular, to its longitudinal extent. The cross section may be, for example, round or oval. Accordingly, the molding may be, for example, a round or oval strand, in particular a cylindrical strand.

The molding may, for example, have a length of 10 cm to several meters, in particular a length of 20 cm to 1 m, in particular 50 cm. However, other dimensions are possible in principle. In one dimension perpendicular to its longitudinal extent, the molding may for example have a diameter or equivalent diameter of 1 mm to 8 mm, in particular from 2 mm to 5 mm. Other dimensions are possible.

The molding may, for example, describe a process in which at least one molding is produced from one or more raw materials, for example a plastic mass and / or a plastic granulate. For the molding, for example, at least one mold, in particular at least one tool, with at least one mold cavity can be used. Even a mold without tools or mold is basically possible, for example by spraying, extruding or extruding. If a mold is used, for example, the dimensioning of the mold can be adapted to produce different pigtail holders, for example in different thicknesses. If an extrusion method is used, for example, a sizing of the nozzle can be adjusted to change a sizing of the product.

In particular, in step a), the plastic material and the core can be produced together. For example, in step a) the plastic material and the core can be injected or extruded together. For example, a coextrusion process may be used, for example, such that the core is simultaneously extruded and a sheath of the plastic material surrounding the core. For example, in a spraying or extrusion process, the sprayed or extruded materials may have a temperature of 170-190 ° C. Other temperatures are possible in principle.

• a1) Einbringen des mindestens einen zumindest teilweise transparent ausgestalteten Kunststoffmaterials und des mindestens einen Kerns in eine Form;
• a2) Pressen des Kunststoffmaterials und des Kerns zu einem Formling in der Form, derart, dass der Kern von dem Kunststoffmaterial umgeben ist; und
• a3) Entformen des Formlings.

If a mold is used, then process step a) can have in particular the following substeps:

• a1) introducing the at least one at least partially transparent plastic material and the at least one core into a mold;
• a2) pressing the plastic material and the core into a molded article in the mold such that the core is surrounded by the plastic material; and
• a3) removal of the molding.

In particular, the mold may have at least one elongated mold cavity, in particular a rod-shaped mold cavity. In step a), the plastic material and the core can be injected into the mold. In particular, in step a) the plastic material and the core can be injected simultaneously into the mold.

As stated above, the molded article may in particular be an elongated, strand-like molded article. The molding can be configured, for example, cylindrical. For example, the molding may have a round or oval cross-section. However, other forms are possible in principle.

The curing can be carried out in particular at a temperature of 50 ° C to 90 ° C, in particular at a temperature of 60 ° C to 80 ° C and particularly preferably a temperature of 70 ° C. For this example, a furnace can be used. Alternatively or additionally, another heating source is possible.

The winding of the molding to the helix in process step c) can be carried out in particular by winding the molding around a rod. Thus, for example, a cylindrical solid rod or hollow rod can be used, around which the molding is wound, so that, for example, a spiral forms around the axis of the rod.

Other possible embodiments relate to the formation of the endless helix. The endless helix can be generated from the complete helix or, alternatively, a singling of the helix into several sections can take place, from which an endless helix can then be generated in each case. In the following, no further distinction is made between the two cases, since in each case, even when singulated, the sections also each form a helix, which in turn can then be formed into an endless helix.

Thus, for example, in method step d), a connection of two opposite ends take place. These can for example be connected to each other in such a way that the helix is closed in an annular manner. The connection of the opposite ends can for example be made cohesively. In particular, the two opposite ends can first be thermally melted and subsequently or simultaneously pressed against each other. The melting can be carried out, for example, at a temperature of 120-190 ° C, for example at a temperature of 140 ° C. Other temperatures are possible. For example, a soldering iron can be used for thermal melting. Another contacting or non-contact thermal process is possible.

The proposed pigtail and the proposed method have a variety of advantages over known hair accessories of similar type and manufacturing process. In particular, can be realized by means of the proposed invention, a pigtail, which is good and durable has reflective properties. In particular, the pigtail holder may be designed such that it and its reflective properties are always clearly visible, no matter how often the pigtail holder is wrapped around the hair, for example a braid. Since the core is firmly surrounded by the plastic material, the reflective properties are also subject to no significant wear, as is the case, for example, in a merely superficially reflective coating. In contrast to externally mounted reflectors and a detachment or falling of the reflector is at least largely prevented. Furthermore, the pigtail can be very gentle on the hair, since the reflector is surrounded in the form of the core of the plastic material and thus does not come into direct contact with the hair. The pigtail holder is also washable and therefore easy to clean. By cleaning its function is not affected, in contrast, for example, hair elastics with outer reflector strips, which can be damaged during cleaning.

• Ausfiihrungsform 1: Zopfhalter zum Stabilisieren eines Haarzopfes, umfassend eine Endloshelix mindestens eines Kunststoffmaterials, insbesondere eine toroidale Helix, wobei das Kunststoffmaterial zumindest teilweise transparent ausgestaltet ist, wobei in der Endloshelix mindestens ein von dem Kunststoffmaterial umgebener Kern mindestens eines reflektierenden Materials eingebettet ist.
• Ausführungsform 2: Zopfhalter nach der vorhergehenden Ausführungsform, wobei der Kern ebenfalls eine Endloshelix bildet.
• Ausführungsform 3: Zopfhalter nach einer der vorhergehenden Ausführungsformen, wobei die Endloshelix eine toroidale Helix mit einem großen Durchmesser von 1,5 cm bis 7 cm, insbesondere einem großen Durchmesser von 2 cm bis 5,5 cm, ist, beispielsweise einem großen Durchmesser von 4 cm, 4,5 cm, 5 cm oder 5,5 cm.
• Ausführungsform 4: Zopfhalter nach einer der vorhergehenden Ausführungsformen, wobei die Endloshelix eine toroidale Helix mit einem Schlaufendurchmesser der Schlaufen der Helix von 0,3 cm bis 1,5 cm ist.
• Ausführungsform 5: Zopfhalter nach einer der vorhergehenden Ausführungsformen, wobei der Kern allseitig von dem Kunststoffmaterial umgeben ist.
• Ausführungsform 6: Zopfhalter nach einer der vorhergehenden Ausführungsformen, wobei der Kern durchgehend und unterbrechungsfrei ist.
• Ausführungsform 7: Zopfhalter nach einer der vorhergehenden Ausführungsformen, wobei das Kunststoffmaterial zumindest teilweise aus thermoplastischem Polyurethan besteht.
• Ausführungsform 8: Zopfhalter nach einer der vorhergehenden Ausführungsformen, wobei das Kunststoffmaterial ein elastisches Kunststoffmaterial ist.
• Ausführungsform 9: Zopfhalter nach einer der vorhergehenden Ausführungsformen, wobei das reflektierende Material mindestens ein weiteres Kunststoffmaterial umfasst.
• Ausführungsform 10: Zopfhalter nach der vorhergehenden Ausführungsform, wobei das weitere Kunststoffmaterial Polyethylenterephthalat umfasst.
• Ausführungsform 11: Zopfhalter nach einer der vorhergehenden Ausführungsformen, wobei das reflektierende Material reflektierende Partikel umfasst.
• Ausfiihrungsform 12: Zopfhalter nach einer der vorhergehenden Ausführungsformen, wobei das reflektierende Material Mikrokugeln umfasst.
• Ausführungsform 13: Zopfhalter nach der vorhergehenden Ausführungsform, wobei die Mikrokugeln Glas-Mikrokugeln umfassen.
• Ausführungsform 14: Zopfhalter nach einer der vorhergehenden Ausführungsformen, wobei das reflektierende Material folgende Zusammensetzung in Volumenprozent aufweist:
  • - 25% ± 10% Polyethylenterephthalat; und
  • - 55% ± 10% Glas-Mikrokugeln.
• Ausführungsform 15: Zopfhalter nach der vorhergehenden Ausführungsform, wobei das reflektierende Material weiterhin mindestens einen Klebstoff aufweist.
• Ausführungsform 16: Zopfhalter nach der vorhergehenden Ausführungsform, wobei der Klebstoff in einer Konzentration von 20 Vol.-% ± 10 Vol.-% in dem reflektierenden Material vorliegt.
• Ausführungsform 17: Zopfhalter nach einer der vorhergehenden Ausführungsformen, wobei der Kern entlang einer Spiralachse der Endloshelix angeordnet ist.
• Ausführungsform 18: Zopfhalter nach einer der vorhergehenden Ausführungsformen, wobei der Kern radial von dem Kunststoffmaterial umschlossen ist.
• Ausführungsform 19: Verfahren zur Herstellung eines Zopfhalters zum Stabilisieren eines Haarzopfes, wobei das Verfahren folgende Schritte umfasst:
  1. a) Formen mindestens eines Formlings, wobei der Formling einen Kern mindestens eines reflektierenden Materials und mindestens ein den Kern umgebendes Kunststoffmaterial aufweist, wobei das Kunststoffmaterial zumindest teilweise transparent ausgestaltet ist;
  2. b) Wickeln des Formlings zu einer Helix;
  3. c) Aushärten des Kunststoffmaterials mit dem Kern; und
  4. d) Formung der Helix zu einer Endloshelix, insbesondere einer toroidalen Helix.
• Ausführungsform 20: Verfahren nach der vorhergehenden Ausführungsform, wobei der Zopfhalter ein Zopfhalter gemäß einer der vorhergehenden, einen Zopfhalter betreffenden Ausführungsformen ist.
• Ausführungsform 21: Verfahren nach einer der vorhergehenden, ein Verfahren betreffenden Ausführungsformen, wobei in Schritt a) das Kunststoffmaterial und der Kern gemeinsam erzeugt werden.
• Ausführungsform 22: Verfahren nach einer der vorhergehenden, ein Verfahren betreffenden Ausführungsformen, wobei in Schritt a) das Kunststoffmaterial und der Kern gemeinsam gespritzt oder extrudiert werden.
• Ausführungsform 23: Verfahren nach einer der vorhergehenden, ein Verfahren betreffenden Ausführungsformen, wobei Verfahrensschritt a) folgende Teilschritte aufweist:
  • a1) Einbringen des mindestens einen zumindest teilweise transparent ausgestalteten Kunststoffmaterials und des mindestens einen Kerns in eine Form;
  • a2) Pressen des Kunststoffmaterials und des Kerns zu einem Formling in der Form, derart, dass der Kern von dem Kunststoffmaterial umgeben ist; und
  • a3) Entformen des Formlings.
• Ausführungsform 24: Verfahren nach der vorhergehenden Ausführungsform, wobei die Form mindestens ein langgestrecktes Formnest aufweist, insbesondere ein stabförmiges Formnest.
• Ausführungsform 25: Verfahren nach einer der beiden vorhergehenden Ausführungsformen, wobei in Schritt a) das Kunststoffmaterial und der Kern in die Form eingespritzt werden.
• Ausführungsform 26: Verfahren nach einer der drei vorhergehenden Ausführungsformen, wobei in Schritt a) das Kunststoffmaterial und der Kern gleichzeitig in die Form eingespritzt werden.
• Ausführungsform 27: Verfahren nach einer der vorhergehenden, ein Verfahren betreffenden Ausführungsformen, wobei der Formling ein lang gestreckter, strangförmiger Formling ist.
• Ausführungsform 28: Verfahren nach einer der vorhergehenden, ein Verfahren betreffenden Ausführungsformen, wobei der Formling zylindrisch ausgestaltet ist.
• Ausführungsform 29: Verfahren nach einer der vorhergehenden, ein Verfahren betreffenden Ausführungsformen, wobei das Aushärten bei einer Temperatur von 50 °C bis 90 °C, insbesondere bei einer Temperatur von 60 °C bis 80 °C und besonders bevorzugt eine Temperatur von 70 °C erfolgt.
• Ausführungsform 30: Verfahren nach einer der vorhergehenden, ein Verfahren betreffenden Ausführungsformen, wobei das Wickeln des Formlings zu der Helix durch Wickeln des Formlings um einen Stab erfolgt.
• Ausführungsform 31: Verfahren nach einer der vorhergehenden, ein Verfahren betreffenden Ausführungsformen, wobei in Verfahrensschritt d) zwei einander gegenüberliegende Enden der Helix miteinander verbunden werden, so dass die Helix ringförmig geschlossen wird.
• Ausführungsform 32: Verfahren nach der vorhergehenden Ausführungsform, wobei die beiden gegenüberliegenden Enden stoffschlüssig miteinander verbunden werden.
• Ausführungsform 33: Verfahren nach der vorhergehenden Ausführungsform, wobei die beiden gegenüberliegenden Enden thermisch aufgeschmolzen und gegeneinander gepresst werden.

In summary, the following embodiments are particularly preferred in the context of the present invention:

• Embodiment 1: Pigtail holder for stabilizing a hair pot, comprising an endless helix of at least one plastic material, in particular a toroidal helix, wherein the plastic material is at least partially transparent, wherein embedded in the endless helix at least one core surrounded by the plastic material of at least one reflective material.
• Embodiment 2: Pigtail holder according to the previous embodiment, wherein the core also forms an endless helix.
• Embodiment 3: Pigtail holder according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the endless helix is a toroidal helix with a large diameter of 1.5 cm to 7 cm, in particular a large diameter of 2 cm to 5.5 cm, for example a large diameter of 4 cm, 4.5 cm, 5 cm or 5.5 cm.
• Embodiment 4: Pigtail holder according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the endless helix is a toroidal helix with a loop diameter of the loops of the helix of 0.3 cm to 1.5 cm.
• Embodiment 5: Pigtail holder according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the core is surrounded on all sides by the plastic material.
• Embodiment 6: Pigtail holder according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the core is continuous and uninterrupted.
• Embodiment 7: Pigtail holder according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the plastic material consists at least partially of thermoplastic polyurethane.
• Embodiment 8: Pigtail holder according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the plastic material is an elastic plastic material.
• Embodiment 9: Pigtail holder according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the reflective material comprises at least one further plastic material.
• Embodiment 10: Pigtail holder according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the further plastic material comprises polyethylene terephthalate.
• Embodiment 11: Pigtail holder according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the reflective material comprises reflective particles.
• Embodiment 12: Pigtail holder according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the reflective material comprises microspheres.
• Embodiment 13: Pigtail holder according to the previous embodiment, wherein the microspheres comprise glass microspheres.
• Embodiment 14: Pigtail holder according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the reflective material has the following composition in volume percent:
  • 25% ± 10% polyethylene terephthalate; and
  • - 55% ± 10% glass microspheres.
• Embodiment 15: Pigtail holder according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the reflective material further comprises at least one adhesive.
• Embodiment 16: Pigtail holder according to the previous embodiment, wherein the adhesive is present in a concentration of 20 vol .-% ± 10 vol .-% in the reflective material.
• Embodiment 17: Pigtail holder according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the core is arranged along a spiral axis of the endless helix.
• Embodiment 18: Pigtail holder according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the core is enclosed radially by the plastic material.
• Embodiment 19: Method for producing a braid holder for stabilizing a braid Hairy head, the method comprising the steps of:
  1. a) molding at least one molded article, wherein the molding comprises a core of at least one reflective material and at least one plastic material surrounding the core, wherein the plastic material is at least partially transparent;
  2. b) winding the molding into a helix;
  3. c) curing the plastic material with the core; and
  4. d) shaping the helix into an endless helix, in particular a toroidal helix.
• Embodiment 20: Method according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the pigtail holder is a pigtail holder according to one of the preceding embodiments relating to a pigtail holder.
• Embodiment 21: Method according to one of the preceding embodiments relating to a method, wherein in step a) the plastic material and the core are produced together.
• Embodiment 22: Method according to one of the preceding method embodiments, wherein in step a) the plastic material and the core are injected or extruded together.
• Embodiment 23: Method according to one of the preceding embodiments relating to a method, method step a) comprising the following substeps:
  • a1) introducing the at least one at least partially transparent plastic material and the at least one core into a mold;
  • a2) pressing the plastic material and the core into a molded article in the mold such that the core is surrounded by the plastic material; and
  • a3) removal of the molding.
• Embodiment 24: Method according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the mold has at least one elongated mold cavity, in particular a rod-shaped mold cavity.
• Embodiment 25: Method according to one of the two preceding embodiments, wherein in step a) the plastic material and the core are injected into the mold.
• Embodiment 26: Method according to one of the three preceding embodiments, wherein in step a) the plastic material and the core are injected simultaneously into the mold.
• Embodiment 27: A method according to any one of the preceding method embodiments, wherein the molding is an elongate, stranded molding.
• Embodiment 28: Method according to one of the preceding embodiments relating to a method, wherein the molding is cylindrical.
• Embodiment 29: Method according to one of the preceding embodiments relating to a method, wherein the curing at a temperature of 50 ° C to 90 ° C, in particular at a temperature of 60 ° C to 80 ° C and particularly preferably a temperature of 70 ° C. he follows.
• Embodiment 30: A method according to any one of the preceding method embodiments, wherein the winding of the molding to the helix is accomplished by winding the molding around a rod.
• Embodiment 31: Method according to one of the preceding embodiments relating to a method, wherein in method step d) two opposite ends of the helix are connected to one another so that the helix is closed in an annular manner.
• Embodiment 32: Method according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the two opposite ends are joined together in a material-locking manner.
• Embodiment 33: Method according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the two opposite ends are thermally melted and pressed against each other.

Brief description of the figures

Further details and features of the invention will become apparent from the following description of preferred embodiments, in particular in conjunction with the subclaims. In this case, the respective features can be implemented on their own or in combination with one another. The invention is not limited to the embodiments. The embodiments are shown schematically in the figures. The same reference numerals in the individual figures designate the same or functionally identical or with respect to their functions corresponding elements.

• 1A und 1B eine exemplarische Ausführungsform eines erfindungsgemäßen Zopfhalters zum Stabilisieren eines Haarzopfes in einer Draufsicht (1A) und in einer Querschnittsdarstellung (1B); und
• 2A und 2B eine exemplarische Ausführungsform eines erfindungsgemäßen Verfahrens zur Herstellung eines Zopfhalters zum Stabilisieren eines Haarzopfes (2A) und eine Darstellung eines Verfahrensschritts des erfindungsgemäßem Verfahrens (2B).

In detail show:

• 1A and 1B an exemplary embodiment of a braid according to the invention for stabilizing a hair pot in a plan view ( 1A ) and in a cross-sectional representation ( 1B ); and
• 2A and 2 B 1 shows an exemplary embodiment of a method according to the invention for producing a braid holder for stabilizing a hair pot ( 2A ) and a representation of a method step of the method according to the invention ( 2 B ).

Description of the embodiments

1A and 1B show an exemplary embodiment of a Zopfhalters invention 110 for stabilizing a hair pot. The pigtail holder 110 is in 1A shown in a plan view and in 1B in a cross-sectional view.

As in particular in 1A illustrated, includes the pigtail holder 110 an endless helix 112 at least one plastic material 114 , The endless helix 112 can in particular from a large number of adjacent and merging loops 116 of substantially equal diameter. The loops 116 may have a loop diameter d _s , which is for example 0.3 cm to 1.5 cm. In this context, a loop diameter can generally be understood to be a double distance between a center point of a loop and a center of the base body in the region of this loop, or generally also a mean diameter of a loop, for example a projection of the loop into an in 1A radially to the circle K perpendicular to the plane extending plane. However, other dimensions are also conceivable. The endless helix 112 in particular, a toroidal helix 118 be. The toroidal helix 118 may in particular have a large diameter d _g of 1.5 cm to 7 cm, in particular from 2 cm to 5.5 cm, for example, a large diameter d _g of 4 cm, 4.5 cm, 5 cm or 5.5 cm.

The plastic material 114 is at least partially transparent. In particular, the plastic material 114 a clear plastic material 120 be. The plastic material 120 can be designed colorless or colored. Furthermore, the plastic material 114 an elastic plastic material 122 be. In the endless helix 112 is at least one of the plastic material 114 surrounding core 124 at least one reflective material 126 embedded. The core 124 can, as in particular in 1A shown, also an endless helix 128 form. Furthermore, the core 124 , in particular in 1B represented, on all sides of the plastic material 114 be surrounded. In particular, the core can 124 radially from the plastic material 114 be enclosed.

The reflective material 126 in particular, another plastic material 130 include, for example, polyethylene terephthalate. Furthermore, the reflective material 126 reflective particles 132 such as microspheres 134 include. In particular, the reflective material 126 have the following composition: 25% ± 10% polyethylene terephthalate and -55% ± 10% glass microspheres. However, other compositions are possible in principle. The reflective material 126 can still have at least one glue 136 exhibit. The adhesive 136 may alternatively or in addition to the above-mentioned optional further plastic material 130 of the core 124 be used.

In 2A is an exemplary embodiment of a method according to the invention for producing a braid holder 110 for stabilizing a hair pot shown schematically. Furthermore, in 2 B a process step of the method according to the invention is shown. In particular, the pigtail holder 110 , which in the 1A to 1B is represented by the inventive method according to 2A getting produced. For further details regarding the braid holder 110 Therefore, the description of the 1A to 1B referenced above.

In a first step 138 will be at least one molding 139 shaped. The molding 139 can be configured in particular strand-shaped. The molding 139 know a core 124 at least one reflective material 126 and at least one the core 124 surrounding plastic material 114 on. Furthermore, the plastic material 114 at least partially transparent. In particular, in the first step 138 the plastic material 114 and the core 124 be generated together. For example, in the first step 138 the plastic material 114 and the core 124 sprayed or extruded together.

If a shape is used, the first step 138 in particular, a first sub-step 140 , a second sub-step 142 and a third sub-step 144 exhibit. The mold may, for example, have at least one elongated mold cavity, in particular a rod-shaped mold cavity. During the first step 140 this can be at least one at least partially transparent plastic material 114 and the at least one core 124 be introduced into the mold. During the second substep 142, the plastic material 114 and the core 124 to a molding 139 be pressed in the mold, such that the core 124 from the plastic material 114 is surrounded. During the third step 144 can the molding 139 be removed.

In a further step 146 becomes the shape 139 to a helix 148 wound. This is in 2 B shown. In particular, the molding can 139 , as in 2 B presented to a rod 150 be wrapped. By winding the molding 139 around the rod 150, the winding of the molding 139 to the helix 148 respectively. The molding 139 can be so around the bar 150 be wrapped, so that a spiral 156 around an axis 158 , in particular a longitudinal axis 160 , of the staff 150 forms. The rod 150 in particular, a cylindrical solid rod 150 or a cylindrical hollow rod 152 be.

In a further step 162 becomes the plastic material 114 with the core 124 hardened. The curing can be carried out in particular at a temperature of 50 ° C to 90 ° C, in particular at a temperature of 60 ° C to 80 ° C and particularly preferably a temperature of 70 ° C. For this example, a furnace can be used.

In a further step 164 becomes the helix 148 to an endless helix 112 , in particular a toroidal helix 118 , such as in 1A shown, shaped. For example, two opposite ends 166 . 168 be connected to each other, in particular such that the helix 148 is closed annularly. The connection of the opposite ends 166 . 168 can be done, for example, cohesive. In particular, the two opposite ends 166 . 168 are first thermally melted and then pressed against each other or simultaneously. The melting can be carried out, for example, at a temperature of 120-190 ° C, for example at a temperature of 140 ° C. Other temperatures are possible.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

110

Zopfhalter

112

continuous helix

114

Plastic material

116

loop

118

toroidal helix

120

clear plastic material

122

elastic plastic material

124

core

126

reflective material

128

continuous helix

130

further plastic material

132

reflective particles

134

microspheres

136

adhesive

138

first step

139

molding

140

first step

142

second sub-step

144

third part step

146

another step

148

helix

150

Rod

152

rod

154

hollow bar

156

spiral

158

axis

160

longitudinal axis

162

another step

164

another step

166

The End

168

The End

Claims (15)

A braid holder (110) for stabilizing a hair pot, comprising an endless helix (112) of at least one plastic material (114), wherein the plastic material (114) is at least partially transparent, wherein in the endless helix (112) at least one of the plastic material (114) surrounded Core (124) of at least one reflective material (126) is embedded. The pigtail holder (110) of the preceding claim, wherein the core (124) also forms an endless helix (128). The pigtail holder (110) of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the endless helix (112) is a toroidal helix (118) having a large diameter (dg) of from 1.5 cm to 7 cm. The pigtail holder (110) of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the endless helix (112) is a toroidal helix (118) having a loop diameter (d _s ) of the loops (116) of the endless helix (112) of from 0.3 cm to 1.5 cm , A pigtail holder (110) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the core (124) is surrounded on all sides by the plastic material (114). A pigtail holder (110) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the core (124) is continuous and uninterruptible. A pigtail holder (110) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the plastic material (114) is at least partially made of thermoplastic polyurethane. A pigtail holder (110) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the reflective material (126) comprises at least one further plastic material (130). The pigtail holder (110) of the preceding claim, wherein the further plastic material (130) comprises polyethylene terephthalate. A pigtail holder according to (110) any one of the preceding claims, wherein the reflective material (126) comprises reflective particles (132). The pigtail holder (110) of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the reflective material (126) comprises microspheres (134). The pigtail holder (110) of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the core (124) is radially enclosed by the plastic material (114). A method of making a braid holder (110) for stabilizing a hair pot, the method comprising the steps of: a) molding at least one molding (139), wherein the molding (139) has a core (124) of at least one reflective material (126) and at least one plastic material (114) surrounding the core (124), wherein the plastic material (114) at least is partially transparent designed; b) winding the blank (139) into a helix (148); c) curing the plastic material (114) with the core (124); and d) Forming the helix (139) into an endless helix (112). Method according to the preceding method claim, wherein in step a) the plastic material (114) and the core (124) are produced together. Method according to one of the preceding method claims, wherein method step a) comprises the following substeps: a1) introducing the at least one at least partially transparent plastic material (114) and the at least one core (124) into a mold; a2) pressing the plastic material (114) and the core (124) into a blank (139) in the mold such that the core (124) is surrounded by the plastic material (114); and a3) removal of the molding (139).

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