DE202018105072U1 - Hand-held hair styling device - Google Patents

Abstract

A hand-held hair styling device, the hair styling device comprising:
a body;
a rotatable base mounted on the body for rotation relative to the body about an axis of rotation, the rotatable base having an exposed surface generally facing away from the body, wherein the axis of rotation of the rotatable base is substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis the body extends;
a hair styling element mounted on the exposed surface of the rotatable base for rotation relative to the body having the rotatable base, the hair styling element extending generally away from the body; and
a selectively operable drive system for driving rotation of the rotatable base relative to the body, the drive system comprising: an actuator carried by the body for movement between a first position and a second position to permit rotation of the rotatable base and a transmission connecting the actuator to the rotatable base to transmit the movement of the actuator from the first position to the second position into rotation of the rotatable base in a first direction, the transmission being configured to rotate prevent the rotatable base in a second direction opposite to the first direction upon movement of the actuator from the second position to the first position.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to hand-held hair styling devices such as hair brushes and combs, and more particularly to hand-held hair styling devices which are used to curl a person's hair.

BACKGROUND

A conventional hand-held hairbrush has a body and a handle extending from the body. A variety of hair styling elements, such as bristles or teeth, extend away from the body of the brush. To use this conventional brush, a person holds the handle in his or her hand and moves the brush so that the hair styling elements pass through the hair on a person's head.

A comb is similar to a brush. The hair styling elements on a comb are typically arranged in a narrower configuration (e.g., a single row of teeth or some closely spaced parallel rows of teeth) as hair styling elements on a brush. However, there is no clear boundary between devices considered as combs and devices considered as brushes. Both combs and brushes work by allowing a user to move a body carrying a plurality of hair styling elements that extend from the body so that the hair styling elements move through the hairs on a person's head.

The styling elements of the most common brushes and combs do not move relative to the body that supports them.

SUMMARY

One aspect of the invention is a handheld hair styling device that includes a body having a wider side between a pair of narrower sides on opposite sides of the wider side. The wider side of the body has a width that is wider than the narrower sides of the body. A rotatable base is mounted between the narrower sides on the body for rotation relative to the body about an axis of rotation. The rotatable base has an exposed surface generally facing away from the body. The axis of rotation of the rotatable base extends substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the body. A plurality of hair styling elements are mounted on the exposed surface of the rotatable base for rotation relative to the body with the rotatable base. The plurality of hair styling elements generally extend away from the body.

Another aspect of the invention is a hand-held hair styling device having a body having a wider side between a pair of narrower sides on opposite sides of the wider side. The wider side of the body has a width that is wider than the narrower sides of the body. A plurality of rotatable bases are mounted between the narrower sides on the body for rotation relative to the body about axes of rotation. The rotatable bases each have an exposed surface that faces generally away from the body. A plurality of hair styling elements are mounted on the exposed surface of each of the rotatable bases for rotation relative to the body with the respective rotatable base. The plurality of hair styling elements generally extend away from the body. A handle extends from the body in a direction substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation of at least one of the rotatable bases.

Yet another aspect of the invention is a hand-held hair styling device having a body having a wider side between a pair of narrower sides on opposite sides of the wider side. The wider side of the body has a width that is wider than the narrower sides of the body. A plurality of rotatable bases are mounted between the narrower sides on the body for rotation relative to the body about axes of rotation. The rotatable bases each have an exposed surface that faces generally away from the body. A plurality of hair styling elements are mounted on the exposed surface of each of the rotatable bases for rotation relative to the body with the respective rotatable base. The plurality of hair styling elements generally extend away from the body. Each of the hair styling elements attached to the rotatable bases is spaced from each of the other hair styling elements.

Another aspect of the invention is a method of hair styling. The method includes holding a body having a rotatable base thereon. The rotatable base is attached to the body for rotation relative to the body and has a plurality of hair styling elements mounted thereon. The body has a wider side between a pair of narrower sides on opposite sides of the wider side. The rotatable base is mounted on the wider side. The method involves moving the body to place the hair styling elements in the person's hair. A selectively activatable drive system is activated which is operatively connected to the rotatable base to rotate the rotatable base relative to the body to drive about an axis of rotation, whereby the rotatable base and the Haarfrisierelemente rotate thereon, while at least some of the Haarfrisierelemente are in contact with the hair of the person. The axis of rotation of the rotatable base extends substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the body.

Yet another aspect of the invention is a method of hair styling. The method includes holding a handle connected to a body having a plurality of rotatable bases thereon. Each of the rotatable bases is attached to the body for rotation relative to the body and has a plurality of hair styling elements mounted thereon. The method includes moving the handle to place the hair styling elements in a person's hair. A selectively activatable drive system operatively connected to the rotatable bases is activated to drive rotation of the rotatable bases relative to the body whereby the rotatable bases and the hair styling elements rotate thereon while at least some of the hair styling elements contact the hairs of the hair Person are.

In another aspect of the present invention, a handheld hair styling device generally includes a body having a wider side between a pair of narrower sides on opposite sides of the wider side, the wider side of the body having a width that is wider than the narrower sides of the body. A rotatable base is mounted between the narrower sides on the body for rotation relative to the body about an axis of rotation. The rotatable base has an exposed surface generally facing away from the body, and the axis of rotation of the rotatable base extends substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the body. At least one hair styling element is mounted on the exposed surface of the rotatable base for rotation relative to the body with the rotatable base. The hair styling element generally extends away from the body and has recesses therein that open radially outward from the axis of rotation of the rotatable base.

In another aspect of the present invention, a hand-held hair styling device generally includes a body and a rotatable base mounted on the body for rotation relative to the body about an axis of rotation. The rotatable base has an exposed surface generally facing away from the body. The axis of rotation of the rotatable base extends substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the body. A hair styling element mounted on the exposed surface of the rotatable base for rotation relative to the body with the rotatable base generally extends away from the body. A selectively operable drive system for driving rotation of the rotatable base relative to the body includes an actuator carried by the body for movement between a first position and a second position to actuate rotation of the rotatable base. A transmission connecting the actuator to the rotatable base may transmit the movement of the actuator from the first position to the second position into rotation of the rotatable base in a first direction. The transmission is configured to prevent rotation of the rotatable base in a second direction opposite to the first direction upon movement of the actuator from the second position to the first position.

In yet another aspect of the present invention, a hand-held hair styling device generally includes a body and a rotatable base mounted on the body for rotation relative to the body about an axis of rotation. The rotatable base has an exposed surface generally facing away from the body, and the axis of rotation of the rotatable base extends substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the body. At least one hair styling element is mounted on the exposed surface of the rotatable base for rotation relative to the body with the rotatable base. The at least one hair styling element generally extends away from the body. A selectively operable drive system for driving rotation of the rotatable base relative to the body includes an actuator carried by the body for movement between two positions to actuate rotation of the rotatable base. A transmission connects the actuator to the rotatable base to transmit the movement of the actuator from the first position to the second position into rotation of the rotatable base in a first direction. The transmission is configured to generate a single 360 ° rotation of the rotatable base about the axis of rotation as the actuator moves from the first position to the second position.

Other tasks and features will be in part obvious and in part set forth below.

list of figures

• 1 Fig. 11 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a hair styling device of the present invention;
• 2 and 3 are additional perspectives of in 1 shown hair styling device from different angles;
• 4 is a side view of in 1 - 3 illustrated hair styling device;
• 5 is a top-down view of the in 1 - 4 illustrated hair styling device;
• 6 is a top down view of the in 1 - 5 illustrated hair styling device;
• 7 is an exploded perspective view of the in 1 - 6 illustrated hair styling device;
• 8th is a perspective view of the in 1 - 7 shown hair styling device, wherein a part of the device is removed to show internal features;
• 9 is a perspective view of the in 1 - 8th shown hair styling device, similar 8th but with an additional portion of the device removed to show additional internal features;
• 10 is a perspective of two different sets of interchangeable turntables on which different styling element configurations are formed, for use with the in 1 - 9 illustrated hair styling device;
• 11 FIG. 15 is a perspective view illustrating a method of using the in 1 - 9 shown device for curling the hair of a person shows;
• 12 Fig. 11 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a hair styling device of the present invention;
• 13 Fig. 11 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a hair styling device of the present invention;
• 14 is another perspective of in 13 illustrated embodiment, wherein parts of the device are removed to show internal features;
• 15 is a perspective view of the in 13 - 14 illustrated embodiment showing a manually activatable drive lever in a depressed position;
• 16 Fig. 11 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a hair styling device of the present invention;
• 17 is another perspective of in 16 illustrated embodiment, wherein parts of the device are removed to show internal features;
• 17A is another perspective of in 16 illustrated embodiment, wherein parts of the device are removed to show internal features;
• 18 is a perspective view of the in 16 - 17 illustrated embodiment showing a manually activatable drive lever in a depressed position;
• 19 Fig. 11 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a hair styling device of the present invention;
• 20 is another perspective of in 19 illustrated embodiment, wherein parts of the device are removed to show internal features;
• 21 is a perspective view of the in 19 - 20 illustrated embodiment showing a manually activatable drive lever in a depressed position;
• 22 Fig. 11 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a hair styling device of the present invention;
• 23 is another perspective of in 22 illustrated embodiment, wherein parts of the device are removed to show internal features;
• 24 is a perspective view of the in 22 - 23 illustrated embodiment showing a manually activatable drive lever in a depressed position;
• 25 Fig. 11 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a hair styling device of the present invention;
• 26 Fig. 11 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a hair styling device of the present invention;
• 27 Fig. 11 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a hair styling device of the present invention;
• 28 is another perspective of in 27 illustrated embodiment, wherein parts of the device are removed to show internal features;
• 29 is another perspective of in 27 illustrated embodiment, wherein parts of the device are removed to show internal features;
• 30 is a perspective of in 29 illustrated embodiment, showing the gears of the device in an actuated position;
• 31 is a perspective of in 29 illustrated embodiment, wherein parts of the device are removed to show internal features;
• 32 Fig. 11 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a hair styling device of the present invention;
• 33 is another perspective of in 32 illustrated embodiment, wherein parts of the device are removed to show internal features;
• 34 is another perspective of in 32 illustrated embodiment, wherein parts of the device are removed to show internal features;
• 35 is a perspective of in 34 illustrated embodiment, wherein parts of the device are removed to show internal features.

Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts in the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring to the drawings, first up 1 - 9 , An embodiment of a Haarfrisiervorrichtung is generally with 101 designated. The device 101 Can be used to brush hair in the same way as a traditional hairbrush. The device 101 however, it may also be used to impart curls to a person's hair in a manner which will be described in more detail below.

The device 101 has a body 103 and a handle 105 which extends from the body. The body 103 has one or more hair styling elements 107 that are attached to it. The handle 105 is sized and shaped so that it fits in the hand of a person, so that the person's body 103 and the hair styling elements 107 move on it relative to the hair on the head of this person or on the head of another person. The body 103 and the handle 105 are suitably made from a moldable polymeric material, although other materials could be used instead. Referring to 7 consist of the body 103 and the handle 105 the device 101 each from an upper shell 109 and a lower shell 111 in terms of orientation in 7 be named that way. It is understood that the lower shell 111 over the upper shell 109 and vice versa, depending on how the device 101 is held. The upper shell 109 of the body 103 and the handle 105 are suitably shaped together as one part. Similarly, the lower shell 111 of the body 103 and the handle 105 also suitably shaped together as a part. It is understood that the upper and lower shells 109 . 111 can be made in larger or smaller pieces than in the illustrated embodiment and that the dividing lines between the several parts of the shell can be varied. If desired, the configuration of the trays can also be from the in 1 - 9 differ from the configuration shown. The upper and lower shells 109 . 111 are configured so that they can be attached to each other (for example by screws 113 or other fasteners) to the body 103 and the handle 105 to build. The body 103 and the handle 105 suitably have a hollow interior 115 for reasons that are obvious.

With reference to 4 and 5 rejects the body 103 suitably a wider side 121 on that is between a pair of narrower sides 123 on opposite sides of the body 103 extends. The narrower sides 123 are on opposite sides of the wider side 121 , The width W1 the wider side 121 is wider than the width W2 the narrower sides 123 , In the illustrated embodiment, the narrower sides 123 about the same width, but it is understood that this is not required. The width W1 the wider side 121 of the body 103 is suitably at least about 2 Inch. The length L1 of the body 103 is suitably at least about 4 Inch. To the length L1 of the body 103 to measure is the length L1 as the distance between the end of the body opposite the handle 105 and the styling element 107 defined farthest from this end. As in 1 shown is the wider side 121 of the body 103 suitably substantially flat.

A variety of hair styling elements 107 is on the wider side 121 attached to the body. In the in 1 - 9 embodiment shown are all Frisierelemente 107 on the wider side 121 of the body 103 , Some of the hair styling elements 107 are suitable fixed styling elements 125 attached to the body 103 are attached. For example, some or all of the fixed styling elements 125 suitably on the wider side 121 of the body 103 attached. There are several options, the fixed hair styling elements 125 on the body 103 to fix. Referring to 7 For example, several or all of the fixed hair styling elements 125 appropriately on a base 127 attached, which carries several fixed Haarfrisierelemente. In the illustrated embodiment, there are several bases 127 each of which carries at least two fixed hair styling elements. The bases 127 are inside the body 103 arranged so that the fixed hair styling elements 125 through openings 129 in the lower shell 111 extend. Thus, the distal ends of the fixed hair styling elements extend 125 from the base 103 the hair styling device 101 path. The bases 127 be in the interior 115 the hair styling device 101 through the upper and lower shell 109 . 111 absorbed and hold the fixed Haarfrisierelemente thereby on the base 103 , Those skilled in the art of designing and / or making hair styling devices are familiar with various other ways of attaching fixed styling elements to the body of a hair styling device which may be used in place of the arrangement in the illustrated embodiment.

At least some of the hair styling elements 107 are moving hair styling elements 135 attached to the body 103 are mounted for movement relative to the body. For example, the movable hair styling elements 135 suitably relative to the body 103 rotatable. Regarding 1 . 3 . 5 and 7 are several turntables 137 (generally rotatable bases) on the body 103 for rotating the turntables relative to the body about the axes of rotation 139 assembled. Although the rotatable bases 137 In the illustrated embodiment, in the form of turntables, it will be understood that the rotatable bases may, if desired, have other shapes and configurations (for example domed or hemispherical). The turntables 137 are suitable on the wider side 121 of the body 103 between their narrower sides 123 assembled. Referring to 5 are the turntables 137 suitably arranged in a linear configuration extending generally along a longitudinal axis 143 of the body 103 extends. For example, the turntables 137 suitably in series on the central longitudinal axis 143 assembled. Moreover, in the illustrated embodiment, the central longitudinal axis 143 of the body 103 with the central longitudinal axis (also with 143 designated) of the handle 105 aligned so that the turntable 137 are also arranged in a linear configuration extending along the longitudinal axis 143 extends the handle. The turntables 137 are suitably attached to the body 103 attached so that the turntable axes of rotation 139 have, which are substantially parallel to each other. In the illustrated embodiment, the axes of rotation 139 at least one of the turntables 137 (For example, all turntable) arranged substantially perpendicular to the direction in which the handle 105 from the body 103 extends. The axes of rotation 139 are suitably substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 143 of the body 103 and the handle 105 arranged.

The mobile hair styling elements 135 are like that on the turntables 137 attached so that the movable Haarfrisierelemente move with the turntables. The turntables 137 are suitably in openings 145 in the lower shell 111 picked up, leaving some parts of the turntable inside the body 103 are arranged. The turntables 137 also include an exposed surface 149 that are either outside the body 103 arranged or at least accessible from outside the body. The exposed surfaces 149 the turntable 137 are generally of the body 103 directed away. The mobile hair styling elements 135 are suitably on the exposed surfaces 149 the turntable 137 attached. The movable hairdressing elements 135 extend from the turntables 137 away from the body 103 ,

At least some of the mobile styling elements 135 are from the rotary axes 143 of the turntable 137 who carries her, staggered. For example, in the in 1 - 9 illustrated embodiment of each of the movable Frisierelemente 135 from the rotary axes 143 the respective turntable 137 staggered. As in 5 shown, some or all movable Frisierelemente extend 135 radially outward to the outer periphery of the respective turntable 137 , The displaced moving hairdressing elements 135 are arranged so that they move in relatively wide circles when the turntables 137 be rotated due to their staggered position. The turntables 137 suitably have a relatively large diameter D1 such as at least about 0.75 inches.

Referring to 4 extend the movable styling elements 135 suitably about the same distance from the body 103 like the fixed hairdressing elements 125 , The distal ends of all the hair styling elements suitably lie on the same plane P as in FIG 4 shown. Alternatively, the distal ends of all hair styling elements may lie on a cylindrical or other smooth curved surface. When the hair styling device 101 used to brush hair in the same way as a conventional brush will become the fixed hair styling element 125 and the mobile hair styling elements 135 both arranged so that they touch the hair and / or the scalp and in the event that the device 101 The scalp touches, there is no tendency for the pressure in just a few of the hair styling elements 125 . 135 is concentrated, as it might occur if one set of hair styling elements is significantly longer than the other, so that the ends are not all on the same plane or on a slightly curved surface.

The configuration of the movable styling elements 135 may vary within the broad scope of the invention. In the in 1 - 9 In the illustrated embodiment, at least some (for example, all) of the movable styling elements have a paddle-shaped configuration. Each of the paddle-shaped hairdressing elements 135 has a broad side 151 which are generally in the direction of rotation aligned, and narrow sides 153 which are aligned so that they are generally aligned in a radial direction relative to the direction of rotation. The mobile hair styling elements 135 in this embodiment are suitably arranged substantially parallel to each other. It will be understood, however, that the moveable styling elements may be oriented so that they are inclined toward or away from each other as they extend away from the base, if desired. Also in this embodiment, each of the movable styling elements 135 spaced from each of the other movable hair styling elements. This is in contrast to "tufted" style hair styling elements in which one or more bundles of styling elements are mounted in abutting relation to each other. It will be understood, however, that the moveable styling elements could include one or more tufts, if desired.

The device 101 includes a drive system 161 for driving the movement of the movable styling elements 135 For example, by driving the rotation of the turntable 137 , For example, the drive system 161 be selectively activatable by the user to the turntables 137 and the movable styling elements 135 Turn it on, if desired. The drive system 161 is suitably also configured, the turntable 137 and the movable styling elements 135 stationary on it relative to the body 103 to hold, if desired.

With reference to 7 - 9 includes the drive system 161 suitably an engine 163 (For example, an electric motor), with the turntables 137 is connected so that the motor turntable relative to the body 103 can turn. In the illustrated embodiment, the engine is 163 with the turntables 137 through a set of gears 171 connected. The gears include a drive pinion 173 at the output shaft 175 of the motor 163 is mounted so that the output shaft and the drive pinion rotate together. The drive pinion 173 meshes with a speed change gear 177 Coming with the first of a set of turntable cogwheels 179 combs. The turntables 137 are on the turntable gears 179 mounted so that the turntables rotate with the turntable gears (for example, together). In the illustrated embodiment, the speed change gear is 177 configured for the first turntable gear 179 at a higher angular velocity than the angular velocity of the drive pinion 173 and the output shaft 175 of the motor 163 to turn. That is, the speed change gear 177 is configured so that it increases the speed when the power from the motor to the turntables 137 is transmitted. However, the speed change gear could be configured to reduce the rotational speed of the turntable gear relative to the engine, if desired.

Between the turntable gears 179 are wheels 181 each arranged so that they mesh with the adjacent turntable gears. The gears 171 are configured to rotate each of the turntables in the same direction. The gears 171 and the drive system 161 are suitably configured for each of the turntables 137 to rotate at substantially the same angular velocity. For example, the turntable gears are 179 In the illustrated embodiment, all substantially the same size and the wheels 181 are also all substantially the same size, so that the turntable gears all rotate at about the same speed.

The turntables 137 can with the turntable gears 179 be connected in different ways. In the illustrated embodiment, the turntables 137 detachable on the turntable gears 177 attached. Referring to the 7 - 9 points each of the turntable gears 177 a spindle 185 on, extending along the axis of rotation 139 extends ( 8th and 9 ). The spindles 185 are sized and shaped to fit in sockets 187 ( 7 ) can be included in the base of the turntable 137 are formed. The spindles 185 and the jacks 187 each have a corresponding non-circular cross-sectional shape, so that the turntable 137 with the spindles 185 and the turntable gears 179 are rotatably connected when the spindles are in the sockets. The spindles 185 and the jacks 187 are suitably sized to provide a friction fit between the spindles and bushings that is strong enough to hold the turntables on the device 101 When used for curling hair, however, it is weak enough for a user to turn the turntables 137 if necessary from the spindles 185 can deduct. This facilitates the replacement of one or more turntables 137 against another turntable.

10 shows two different sets of turntables 137 . 137 ' that is interchangeable with the device 101 can be used. The first set of turntables 137 are the same turntables that are in 1 - 9 are shown. The second set of turntables 137 ' is essentially identical to the first set of turntables 137 with the exception that they have a different configuration of movable hair styling elements 135 ' exhibit. Instead of the paddle-shaped hairdressing elements 135 are the movable styling elements 135 ' on the second set of turntables 137 ' essentially cylindrical. Each of the essentially cylindrical Frisierelemente 135 ' is spaced from each other. One of the hairdressing elements 135 ' on every turntable 137 ' is located on the axes of rotation 139 , The other hairdressing elements 135 ' are from the rotary axes 139 added. The hairdressing elements 137 are all substantially parallel to each other and arranged in a lattice configuration (for example, a 3 x 3 grid). If a user wishes to use another type of moveable styling element with the device, he may remove the turntables from the device and replace them with another set of turntables. Although only two types of turntables 137 . 137 ' in 10 It should be noted that there are many possible variations in the configuration of the movable hair styling elements and that for each of the possible desired configurations a different set of turntables could be available.

A switch 165 that is on an external part of the device 101 is accessible, controls the operation of the engine 163 and allows a user to drive the system 161 selectively activate and deactivate. The desk 165 can be any suitable switch that drives the engine 163 selectively with a power source (such as the internal batteries 167 in the illustrated embodiment) can connect and disconnect.

For example, the switch 165 suitably configured the engine 163 to supply power and the drive system 161 to activate when the switch is depressed by a user and to shut off the engine and shut off the drive system as soon as the user releases the switch. Thus, the user can use the drive system 161 activate and deactivate with just one touch, whereby the duration of the touch defines the period in which the drive system is active. It may be for some method of using the device 101 be desirable to require an active input by the user (such as that the user switches 165 continue to press) to the operation of the drive system 161 continue. If z. B. a user is distracted during use of the device and the pressure on the switch 165 can not sustain, the device stops 101 automatically the rotation of the turntable 137 and thereby minimizes the risk of tangled hair due to the continued operation of the drive system while the user is distracted. Similarly, there is less risk of problems, such as strands of hair, that could arise when a user tries to get the engine 163 This process, however, by a physical error (for example, clumsiness) when trying to turn off the switch 165 to press, is delayed.

The device 101 can be used in one of two modes: a fixed hair styling mode and a moveable (for example, rotating) styling element mode. When the device 101 Used in fixed hair styling mode, it operates in much the same way as a traditional hairbrush. The user moves the handle 105 the device 101 relative to the hair of the person, so that the fixed and movable hair styling elements 125 . 135 intervene in the person's hair and move relative to the person's hair (eg unraveling hair, distributing hair care products through hair, straightening hair, curling hair, etc.)

To the device 101 In the mode with movable hair styling elements, the user activates the drive system 161 (for example, by pressing the switch 165 ) to the movement of the movable styling elements 135 drive. For example, the user activates according to 11 suitably the drive system 161 to the rotation of the turntable 137 relative to the body 103 to control, making the turntables and the movable hair styling elements 135 while at least some of the hair styling elements are in contact with the person's hair. Various hairdressing effects can be achieved with this method. For example, the rotating turntables form 137 and moveable hair styling elements suitably a twisted strand of hair 193 from a set of hair 191 at the head of the person. In 11 are the paddle-shaped mobile hair styling elements 135 in contact with the strand of hair 193 placed at a location spaced from the person's head (for example, near the end of the hair in the tress). The wide surfaces 151 on the paddle-shaped hairdressing elements 135 move the hairs in a generally circular shape, thereby twisting the hair strand into a generally helical turn extending between the segment of hair in contact with the device and the person's head. The spiral curvature on the strand 191 is applied, suitably has a central axis which is substantially parallel to the axis of rotation 139 of the turntable 137 runs, which has formed the spiral turn in this strand. It is possible to form a first rotated strand using a first of the turntables, while another twisted strand is formed using another of the turntables. Because the device 101 three turntables 137 it is also possible to have three separate strands 193 out of hair 191 to rotate simultaneously in spiral turns. However, it is not necessary to form a plurality of spiral turns simultaneously.

The method optionally includes holding the hair 191 in the twisted strand for a period of time chosen to give the strand a permanent spiral curvature. For example, the tress 193 sprayed with water or contacted with hairspray, mousse, gel or other hair styling product while held in the wound form and held in the wound form while the water is drying or drying and / or curing the hair styling product To help hair, to keep the spiral shape after the device 101 was removed from the hair.

The process can be repeated as many times as desired to accommodate the extra strands 193 The Hair 191 to give spiraling ripples.

This is just one example of how the device can be used to curl a person's hair. It is understood that the movable hair styling elements can be used in different ways when needed.

12 shows another embodiment of a Haarfrisiervorrichtung 201 of the present invention. This device 201 is essentially identical to that described above and in 1 - 9 illustrated device 101 , except that this device 201 has no fixed hair styling elements. Instead, all hair styling elements 207 mobile hair styling elements 235 at the turntables 237 are attached. The device 201 can be used to the same procedures as the device described above 101 perform.

Another embodiment of a generally with 301 designated hair styling device is in 13 - 15 shown. This device 301 is the one described above and in 1 - 9 illustrated device 101 substantially similar except that the drive system described above 161 by a manually activatable drive system 361 was replaced. In this device 301 there is no engine. The drive system 361 has gears 371 on, the turntable gears 379 and wheels 381 comprising the turntable gears described above 179 and wheels 181 correspond. The device 301 However, instead of a motor has a Handaktuator 375 on, which is formed in the illustrated embodiment as a lever for pivoting movement, so that one end of the lever is outside of the handle 305 extends. A set of teeth 373 , which corresponds to a segment of a drive bush, is at the opposite end of the lever 375 educated. The teeth 373 stand with a speed change gear 377 engaged with an auxiliary wheel 393 meshes with one of the turntable gears 379 combs.

The lever 375 is by a user between a first position ( 14 ), in which the lever continues from the handle 305 and a second position ( 15 ), in which the lever protrudes less from the handle, movable. A biasing element 395 (for example a spring) is in the grip 305 positioned and arranged to the lever 375 to bias to the first position. The lever 375 is relative to the gears 371 positioned and arranged so that the movement of the lever between the first and the second position the movement of the turntable 337 and the movable styling elements 335 it drives through the gears. As in the case of the drive system described above 161 are the gears 371 configured to fit each of the turntables 337 driving in the same direction and at about the same speed.

The device 301 can be used essentially in the same processes as described above in connection with in 1 - 9 illustrated device 101 have been described. However, to cause the moveable styling elements to move, a user manually activates the drive system 361 by manually actuating the actuator 375 (For example, the lever) to move the actuator from the first position to the second position. The user then removes the device from the hair before removing the actuator 375 releases. Once the user has the actuator 375 releases, moves the biasing element 395 automatically return the actuator to the first position. This process can be repeated as often as you like.

Another embodiment of a hair styling device, generally designated 401, is shown in FIG 16 - 18 shown. This device 401 is the one described above and in 13 - 15 illustrated device 301 similar, except that the body 403 a generally oval shape and having no elongated handle extending from the body. Rather, the body should 403 even by a user to operate the device 401 be taken. gripping surfaces 497 are also on the body 403 provided to facilitate the gripping of the body. As shown, the gripping surfaces 497 a series of parallel channels in the body 403 , However, it will be understood that the gripping surfaces may take various forms including, without limitation, raised surfaces, bumps and high friction material. As shown, the body is 403 formed in two halves, which can be connected together. One half of the body was in 14 and 15 removed to show the internal structure.

In addition, only a single turntable 437 holding a variety of moving hairdo elements 435 includes, on the body 403 appropriate. Similar to the device 301 has a drive system 461 gears 471 on which a single turntable gear 479 and a single impeller 481 include, which corresponds to the turntable gear. A hand actuator 475 which in the illustrated embodiment is in the form of a lever mounted for pivotal movement such that one end of the lever extends outside the body 403 extends. A set of teeth 473 , which corresponds to a segment of a drive bush, is at the opposite end of the lever 475 educated. The teeth 473 engage with a speed change gear 477 that with the wheel 481 meshes with the turntable gear 479 combs. The turntable 437 is with the turntable gear 479 connected for common rotation with the turntable. In the illustrated embodiment, each movable styling element 435 a paddle shape with a pair of recesses 457 in a narrow side 453 of the element are formed. The recesses 457 are the hair styling element 435 facing radially outward and during use take many strands of hair and hold them, similar to the teeth of a comb. However, the configuration of the movable styling elements can 435 vary within the broad scope of the invention. The overall size of the body 403 is similar to the body 103 so that a width of a wider side of the body 403 suitably at least about 2 Inches and a length of the body 403 suitably at least about 4 Inches.

As above for the device 301 described is the lever 475 by a user between a first position ( 17 and 17A) and a second position ( 18 ) movable. A biasing element 495 (for example a spring) is in the body 403 positioned and arranged to the lever 475 to bias to the first position (FIG 17A ). The lever 475 is relative to the gears 471 positioned and arranged so that the movement of the lever between the first and the second position, the movement of the turntable 437 and the movable styling elements 435 it drives through the gears.

To cause the moveable styling element to move, a user manually activates the drive system 461 by manually actuating the actuator 475 (For example, the lever) to move the actuator from the first position to the second position. The size of the gear 477 in terms of gears 481 and 479 causes the turntable 437 and the hair styling elements attached thereto rotate faster over a greater angle of rotation than the gear 477 , The user then removes the device from the hair before removing the actuator 475 releases. Once the user has the actuator 475 releases, moves the biasing element 495 automatically return the actuator to the first position. This process can be repeated as often as you like.

Another embodiment of a hair styling device, generally designated 501, is shown in FIG 19 - 21 shown. This device 501 is essentially the one described above and in 16 - 18 illustrated device 401 similar, except that the actuator 575 a depressible button on one side of the body 503 having. The actuator 575 can be moved back and forth along a line to control the rotation of hair styling elements 535 to activate. The body 503 including, in particular, the part of the body which is in 17 and 18 has been removed, includes a structure for guiding the movement of the actuator 575 along its linear, floating path. The feather 595 is at one end of the actuator 575 attached opposite the section that forms the button. The other end of the spring 595 is on a post (not shown) on a section of the body 503 attached, in 20 and 21 is removed. The post provides a firm point against which the spring 595 acts to the actuator 575 to move. In addition, every movable hairdressing element 535 paddle-shaped and has a generally triangular cross-section. recesses 557 are in the pages 553 the styling elements formed. In one embodiment, the hair styling device 401 In the previous embodiment, use an actuator assembly that includes the actuator 575 that covers the device 501 of the present embodiment, without departing from the scope of the invention.

Another embodiment of a generally with 601 designated hair styling device is in 22 - 24 shown. This device 601 is essentially the one described above and in 19 - 21 illustrated device 501 similar, except that the actuator 675 a depressible button on a bottom of the body 603 having. In addition, the actuator 675 generally flush with the surface of the body 603 if he is not depressed, as in 22 and 23 shown. As in 23 and 24 can be seen, the body includes 603 Guide walls showing the movement of the actuator 675 to lead. Similar guide walls (not shown) are also on the part of the body 603 present, out of 23 and 24 is removed. In this embodiment, two springs 695 used. The feathers 695 are at the ends of the respective legs of the actuator 675 appropriate. The other ends of the springs 695 are at posts (not shown) on the part of the body 603 attached, in 23 and 24 was removed. One of the thighs is with teeth 673 formed in the drive system 661 intervention. In addition, every movable hairdressing element 635 paddle-shaped and has a generally rectangular Cross-section on. The hair styling elements 635 have no recesses, but it is understood that such recesses could be used.

Another embodiment of a hair styling device, generally designated 701, is shown in FIG 25 shown. This device 701 is essentially the one described above and in 19 - 21 illustrated device 501 similar, except that a single styling element 735 on the turntable 737 is mounted. The hairdressing element 735 has a triangular prism shape. pages 759 of the styling element 735 are concave. recesses 757 are in the edges 753 of the styling element 735 educated. The recesses 757 open from the Haarfrisierelement radially outward. The recesses 757 are arranged in groups. Different groups of recesses open in a different radial direction about the axis of rotation of the rotatable base 737 ,

Another embodiment of a generally with 801 designated hair styling device is in 26 shown. This device 801 is essentially the one described above and in 19 - 21 illustrated device 501 similar, except that the styling elements 835 have a generally hexagonal prism shape. recesses 857 are in the pages 853 the styling elements 835 educated.

Another embodiment of a hair styling device, generally designated 901, is shown in FIG 27 - 31 shown. This device 901 is essentially the one described above and in 16 - 18 illustrated device 401 similar, except that the actuator 975 a depressible button on one side of the body 903 having. The actuator 975 can be moved back and forth along a line to control the rotation of hair styling elements 935 of the turntable 937 to activate. The body 903 includes guide walls 978 for guiding the movement of the actuator 975 along its linear float route. In this embodiment, two springs 995 used. The feathers 995 are at respective posts 996 of the actuator 975 attached and recorded around them. The other ends of the springs 995 are in shots 997 held by internal walls in the body 903 are formed. The posts 996 lead the movement of the springs 995 , and the walls of the shots 997 Provide a fixed point against which the springs act to the actuator 975 to move. teeth 973 are on a flange 974 of the actuator 975 educated. The teeth 973 stand with a speed change ("first drive") gear 977 engaged with an impeller (via a second, larger drive gear mounted for common rotation with the first drive gear) 981 meshes (in general terms "directional gear") that is configurable with a base or turntable gear 979 to comb. The turntable 937 is with the turntable gear 979 connected for common rotation with the turntable. The first and the second gear can also be understood as a "main gear".

With reference to 29 - 31 the impeller is sitting 981 in a slot 999 , so that the impeller of the turntable gear 979 is spaced when the actuator 975 not depressed. The slot 999 defines an elongated, oval channel that translates the impeller 981 within the slot and a rotational movement of a shaft of the impeller received in the slot allows. Press on the actuator 975 to move the actuator from a first, extended position to a second, compressed position causes the teeth 973 the speed change gear 977 turn counterclockwise, as in the views of 29 - 31 shown. The movement of the actuator 975 from the first position to the second position is a "working mode" of the actuator. The rotation of the speed change gear 977 counterclockwise causes the impeller 981 turns clockwise. Because the impeller 981 is not held firmly in a circular recess, but in the slot 999 is mounted, the engagement of the speed change gear causes 977 in that the impeller in the slot extends from a lower end of the slot to an upper end of the slot and into engagement with the turntable gear 979 emotional. Once the impeller 981 with the turntable gear 979 is engaged causes continued actuation of the actuator 975 further rotation of the impeller causing the now-rotating turntable gear to rotate, which in turn causes the turntable to rotate 937 is turned. In one embodiment, the actuator is fully depressed 975 a single turn of the turntable 937 (that is, the turntable undergoes a single 360 degree turn). Full depression is achieved when further depressing the actuator 975 through the device 901 is prevented. It is further contemplated that a complete depression of the actuator 975 less or more than a single turn of the turntable 937 could cause.

Releasing the pressure on the actuator 975 allows the springs 995 push the actuator up, which causes the teeth 973 the speed change gear 977 rotate clockwise. The movement of the actuator 975 in this way from the second position back to the first position can be understood as an "idle mode" of the actuator. The rotation of the speed change gear 977 clockwise causes that is the impeller 981 turns counterclockwise. However, because the impeller 981 not kept fixed in a circular recess, but rather in the slot 999 is mounted, the engagement of the speed change gear causes 977 in that the impeller is disengaged from the upper end of the slot to the lower end of the slot out of engagement with the turntable gear 979 emotional. Therefore, the rotation of the impeller gives 981 the turntable gear 979 no rotation. The turntable 937 does not rotate when the actuator 975 is released. Thus, the rotation of the turntable becomes 937 only during depression of the actuator 975 caused. As a result, the gears turn 971 the turntable 937 only in one direction. This allows the user to use the device using hair 901 without the device between depressions of the actuator 975 to remove from the hair. The gears including the gears 971 . 981 and 979 can be understood in the illustrated embodiment as a transmission.

Another embodiment of a hair styling device, generally designated 1001, is shown in FIG 32 - 35 shown. This device 1001 is essentially the one described above and in 13 - 15 illustrated device 301 similar, except that the device 1001 a drive system 1061 similar to that used in the device 901 is disclosed in 27 - 31 is shown. The turntables 1037 Perform only a single turn when the lever 1075 is pressed (that is, the turntables are subjected to a single 360-degree rotation), and the turntables do not rotate when the lever is released, so that the turntables rotate in only one direction.

The drive system 1061 has gears 1071 on, the turntable gears 1079 and wheels 1081 comprising the turntable gears described above 379 and wheels 381 correspond. These gears may collectively be referred to as a "transmission". A set of teeth 1073 is on the lever 1075 educated. The teeth 1073 stand with a speed change gear 1077 engaged with an auxiliary wheel 1093 Combs that can be configured to fit with one of the turntable gears 1079 combs. In this embodiment, the auxiliary impeller 1093 in the slot 1099 mounted and moves in the way that is above for the impeller 981 and the slot 999 was described when the lever 1075 is pressed. Therefore, the rotation of the auxiliary wheel causes 1093 no rotation of the adjacent turntable gear 1079 when the lever 1075 is released. The turntables 1037 do not turn when the lever 1075 is released. Thus, the rotation of the turntable 1037 only during the depression of the lever 1075 caused. As a result, the gears rotate 1071 the turntables 1037 only in one direction. This allows the user to use the device using hair 1001 to style without the device between depressing operations of the lever 1075 to remove from the hair. By positioning wheels 1081 between adjacent pairs of turntables 1037 The turntables can all rotate in the same direction.

• A1. Eine handgehaltene Haarfrisiervorrichtung, wobei die Haarfrisiervorrichtung Folgendes umfasst:
  • einen Körper mit einer breiteren Seite zwischen einem Paar schmalerer Seiten auf gegenüberliegenden Seiten der breiteren Seite, wobei die breite Seite des Körpers eine Breite aufweist, die breiter ist als die schmaleren Seiten des Körpers;
  • eine Vielzahl von drehbaren Basen, die zwischen den schmaleren Seiten an dem Körper zur Drehung relativ zu dem Körper um Drehachsen angebracht sind, wobei die drehbaren Basen jeweils eine freiliegende Oberfläche aufweisen, die allgemein von dem Körper weg weist;
  • eine Vielzahl von Haarfrisierelementen, die auf der freiliegenden Oberfläche jeder der drehbaren Basen zur Drehung relativ zu dem Körper mit der jeweiligen drehbaren Basis angebracht sind, wobei sich die Vielzahl von Haarfrisierelementen im Allgemeinen von dem Körper weg erstreckt; und
  • einen Griff, der sich von dem Körper in einer Richtung erstreckt, die im Wesentlichen senkrecht zu der Drehachse von mindestens einer der drehbaren Basen ist.
• A2. Eine handgehaltene Haarfrisiervorrichtung gemäß A1, die ferner Folgendes umfasst: ein selektiv aktivierbares Antriebssystem zum Antreiben der Drehung der drehbaren Basen relativ zu dem Körper.
• A3. Eine handgehaltene Haarfrisiervorrichtung gemäß A2, wobei das selektiv aktivierbare Antriebssystem dafür konfiguriert ist, die drehbaren Basen in einer festen Position relativ zu dem Körper zu halten, wenn das selektiv aktivierbare Antriebssystem nicht aktiviert ist.
• A4. Eine handgehaltene Haarfrisiervorrichtung gemäß A2, wobei das selektiv aktivierbare Antriebssystem einen Satz von Zahnrädern und einen mit den Zahnrädern verbundenen manuellen Aktuator umfasst, so dass ein Benutzer eine Drehung der drehbaren Basen durch manuelle Betätigung des manuellen Aktuators antreiben kann.
• A5. Eine handgehaltene Haarfrisiervorrichtung gemäß A2, wobei das selektiv aktivierbare Antriebssystem einen Elektromotor umfasst, der mit den drehbaren Basen verbunden ist, so dass der Motor die drehbaren Basen relativ zu dem Körper drehen kann, und einen Schalter, der dafür konfiguriert ist, den Elektromotor selektiv ein- und auszuschalten.
• A6. Eine handgehaltene Haarfrisiervorrichtung gemäß A1, die eine Vielzahl von Haarfrisierelementen umfasst, die an der breiteren Seite des Körpers befestigt sind.
• A7. Eine handgehaltene Haarfrisiervorrichtung gemäß A1, wobei mindestens einige der Haarfrisierelemente, die an den drehbaren Basen angebracht sind, eine paddelförmige Konfiguration aufweisen.
• A8. Eine handgehaltene Haarfrisiervorrichtung gemäß A1, wobei jedes der Haarfrisierelemente, die an den drehbaren Basen angebracht sind, von jedem der anderen Haarfrisierelemente beabstandet ist.
• A9. Eine handgehaltene Haarfrisiervorrichtung gemäß A1, wobei alle Haarfrisierelemente auf den drehbaren Basen montiert sind.
• A10. Eine handgehaltene Haarfrisiervorrichtung gemäß A1, wobei der Körper eine Längsachse aufweist und die drehbaren Basen auf dem Körper in einer linearen Konfiguration montiert sind, die sich im Allgemeinen entlang der Längsachse des Körpers erstreckt.
• A11. Eine handgehaltene Haarfrisiervorrichtung gemäß A1, wobei die drehbaren Basen Drehachsen aufweisen, die im Wesentlichen parallel zueinander sind.
• A12. Eine handgehaltene Haarfrisiervorrichtung gemäß A1, wobei die Haarfrisierelemente im Wesentlichen parallel zueinander sind.
• A13. Eine handgehaltene Haarfrisiervorrichtung gemäß A1, wobei die breitere Seite des Körpers im Wesentlichen flach ist.
• A14. Eine handgehaltene Haarfrisiervorrichtung gemäß A1, wobei die breitere Seite des Körpers eine Breite aufweist, die mindestens etwa 2 Zoll beträgt.
• A15. Eine handgehaltene Haarfrisiervorrichtung gemäß A1, wobei der Körper eine Länge von mindestens etwa 3 Zoll aufweist.
• A16. Eine handgehaltene Haarfrisiervorrichtung gemäß A1, wobei mindestens eine der drehbaren Basen einen Durchmesser aufweist, der mindestens etwa 2 Zoll lang ist.
• A17. Eine handgehaltene Haarfrisiervorrichtung, wobei die Haarfrisiervorrichtung Folgendes umfasst:
  • einen Körper mit einer breiteren Seite zwischen einem Paar schmalerer Seiten auf gegenüberliegenden Seiten der breiteren Seite, wobei die breite Seite des Körpers eine Breite aufweist, die breiter ist als die schmaleren Seiten des Körpers;
  • eine Vielzahl von drehbaren Basen, die zwischen den schmaleren Seiten an dem Körper zur Drehung relativ zu dem Körper um Drehachsen angebracht sind, wobei die drehbaren Basen jeweils eine freiliegende Oberfläche aufweisen, die im Allgemeinen von dem Körper weg weist; und
  • eine Vielzahl von Haarfrisierelementen, die auf der freiliegenden Oberfläche jeder der drehbaren Basen zur Drehung relativ zu dem Körper mit der jeweiligen drehbaren Basis angebracht sind, wobei sich die Vielzahl von Haarfrisierelementen im Allgemeinen von dem Körper weg erstreckt;
  • wobei jedes der Haarfrisierelemente, die an den drehbaren Basen angebracht sind, von jedem der anderen Haarfrisierelemente beabstandet ist.
• A18. Eine handgehaltene Haarfrisiervorrichtung gemäß A17, wobei mindestens einige der Haarfrisierelemente, die an den drehbaren Basen angebracht sind, eine paddelförmige Konfiguration aufweisen.
• A19. Eine handgehaltene Haarfrisiervorrichtung gemäß A17, wobei der Körper eine Längsachse aufweist und die drehbaren Basen auf dem Körper in einer linearen Konfiguration montiert sind, die sich im Allgemeinen entlang der Längsachse des Körpers erstreckt.
• A20. Eine handgehaltene Haarfrisiervorrichtung gemäß A17, wobei die drehbaren Basen Drehachsen aufweisen, die im Wesentlichen parallel zueinander sind.
• A21. Eine handgehaltene Haarfrisiervorrichtung gemäß A17, wobei die breitere Seite des Körpers eine Breite aufweist, die mindestens etwa 2 Zoll beträgt.
• A22. Eine handgehaltene Haarfrisiervorrichtung gemäß A17, wobei der Körper eine Länge von mindestens etwa 3 Zoll aufweist.
• A23. Eine handgehaltene Haarfrisiervorrichtung gemäß A17, wobei mindestens eine der drehbaren Basen einen Durchmesser aufweist, der mindestens etwa 2 Zoll lang ist.
• A24. Ein Verfahren zum Frisieren von Haar, wobei das Verfahren Folgendes umfasst:
  • Halten eines Griffs, der mit einem Körper verbunden ist, der eine Vielzahl von drehbaren Basen darauf aufweist, wobei jede der drehbaren Basen an dem Körper zur Drehung relativ zu dem Körper angebracht ist und eine Vielzahl von darauf befestigten Haarfrisierelementen aufweist;
  • Bewegen des Griffs, um die Haarfrisierelemente in dem Haar einer Person anzuordnen; und
  • selektives Aktivieren eines Antriebssystems, das mit den drehbaren Basen wirksam verbunden ist, um eine Drehung der drehbaren Basen relativ zu dem Körper anzutreiben, wodurch die drehbaren Basen und die Haarfrisierelemente darauf gedreht werden, während mindestens einige der Haarfrisierelemente in Kontakt mit den Haaren der Person sind.
• A25. Ein Verfahren gemäß A24, wobei das Drehen der drehbaren Basen und der Haarfrisierelemente darauf, während mindestens einige der Haarfrisierelemente in Kontakt mit den Haaren der Person sind, das Bilden einer gedrehten Haarsträhne aus einem Satz der Haare am Kopf der Person umfasst.
• A26. Ein Verfahren gemäß A25, das ferner das Halten der Haare in dem Satz in der gedrehten Strähne für einen Zeitraum umfasst, der so ausgewählt ist, dass mindestens einigen der Haare in dem Satz eine spiralförmige Krümmung verliehen wird.
• A27. Ein Verfahren gemäß A24, wobei das Drehen der drehbaren Basen und der Haarfrisierelemente darauf, während mindestens einige der Haarfrisierelemente in Kontakt mit den Haaren der Person sind, umfasst, dass mindestens einigen der Haare auf dem Kopf der Person eine spiralförmige Krümmung verliehen wird.
• A28. Ein Verfahren gemäß A27, wobei die auf das Haar aufgebrachte spiralförmige Krümmung eine zentrale Achse aufweist, die im Wesentlichen parallel zu einer Drehachse von mindestens einer der drehbaren Basen ist.
• A29. Ein Verfahren gemäß A24, wobei das Drehen der drehbaren Basen und der Haarfrisierelemente darauf, während mindestens einige der Haarfrisierelemente in Kontakt mit den Haaren der Person sind, das Bilden einer ersten gedrehten Haarsträhne aus einem ersten Satz der Haare am Kopf der Person unter Verwendung einer ersten der drehbaren Basen umfasst, währernd eine zweite gedrehte Haarsträhne aus einem zweiten Satz von Haaren auf dem Kopf der Person unter Verwendung einer zweiten der drehbaren Basen gebildet wird.

In view of the above, it is understood that the following has been developed:

• A1. A hand-held hair styling device, the hair styling device comprising:
  • a body having a wider side between a pair of narrower sides on opposite sides of the wider side, the wide side of the body having a width that is wider than the narrower sides of the body;
  • a plurality of rotatable bases mounted between the narrower sides on the body for rotation relative to the body about axes of rotation, the rotatable bases each having an exposed surface generally facing away from the body;
  • a plurality of hair styling elements mounted on the exposed surface of each of the rotatable bases for rotation relative to the body having the respective rotatable base, the plurality of hair styling elements extending generally away from the body; and
  • a handle extending from the body in a direction substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation of at least one of the rotatable bases.
• A2. A hand-held hair styling device according to A1, further comprising: a selectively activatable drive system for driving the rotation of the rotatable bases relative to the body.
• A3. A hand-held hair styling device according to A2, wherein the selectively activatable drive system is configured to hold the rotatable bases in a fixed position relative to the body when the selectively activatable drive system is not activated.
• A4. A hand-held hair styling device according to A2, wherein the selectively activatable drive system comprises a set of gears and a manual actuator connected to the gears such that a user performs rotation of the rotatable bases manual actuation of the manual actuator can drive.
• A5. A hand-held hair styling device according to A2, wherein the selectively activatable drive system comprises an electric motor connected to the rotatable bases, such that the motor can rotate the rotatable bases relative to the body, and a switch configured to selectively engage the electric motor - and turn off.
• A6. A hand-held hair styling device according to A1 comprising a plurality of hair styling elements attached to the wider side of the body.
• A7. A hand-held hair styling device according to A1, wherein at least some of the hair styling elements attached to the rotatable bases have a paddle-shaped configuration.
• A8. A hand-held hair styling device according to A1, wherein each of the hair styling elements attached to the rotatable bases is spaced from each of the other hair styling elements.
• A9. A hand-held hair styling device according to A1, wherein all hair styling elements are mounted on the rotatable bases.
• A10. A handheld hair styling device according to A1, wherein the body has a longitudinal axis and the rotatable bases are mounted on the body in a linear configuration extending generally along the longitudinal axis of the body.
• A11. A hand-held hair styling device according to A1, wherein the rotatable bases have axes of rotation which are substantially parallel to each other.
• A12. A hand-held hair styling device according to A1, wherein the Haarfrisierelemente are substantially parallel to each other.
• A13. A hand-held hair styling device according to A1, wherein the wider side of the body is substantially flat.
• A14. A handheld hair styling device according to A1, wherein the wider side of the body has a width that is at least about 2 inches.
• A15. A hand-held hair styling device according to A1, wherein the body has a length of at least about 3 inches.
• A16. A hand-held hair styling device according to A1, wherein at least one of the rotatable bases has a diameter that is at least about 2 inches long.
• A17. A hand-held hair styling device, the hair styling device comprising:
  • a body having a wider side between a pair of narrower sides on opposite sides of the wider side, the wide side of the body having a width that is wider than the narrower sides of the body;
  • a plurality of rotatable bases mounted between the narrower sides on the body for rotation relative to the body about axes of rotation, the rotatable bases each having an exposed surface generally facing away from the body; and
  • a plurality of hair styling elements mounted on the exposed surface of each of the rotatable bases for rotation relative to the body having the respective rotatable base, the plurality of hair styling elements extending generally away from the body;
  • wherein each of the hair styling elements attached to the rotatable bases is spaced from each of the other hair styling elements.
• A18. A hand-held hair styling device according to A17, wherein at least some of the hair styling elements attached to the rotatable bases have a paddle-shaped configuration.
• A19. A hand-held hair styling device according to A17, wherein the body has a longitudinal axis and the rotatable bases are mounted on the body in a linear configuration extending generally along the longitudinal axis of the body.
• A20. A hand-held hair styling device according to A17, wherein the rotatable bases have axes of rotation that are substantially parallel to each other.
• A21. A hand-held hair styling device according to A17, wherein the wider side of the body has a width that is at least about 2 inches.
• A22. A hand-held hair styling device according to A17, wherein the body has a length of at least about 3 inches.
• A23. A hand-held hair styling device according to A17, wherein at least one of the rotatable bases has a diameter that is at least about 2 inches long.
• A24. A method of hair styling, the method comprising:
  • Holding a handle connected to a body having a plurality of rotatable bases thereon, each of the rotatable bases being attached to the body for rotation relative to the body and having a plurality of hair styling elements mounted thereon;
  • Moving the handle to place the hair styling elements in the hair of a person; and
  • selectively activating a drive system operatively connected to the rotatable bases to drive rotation of the rotatable bases relative to the body, thereby rotating the rotatable bases and hair styling elements thereon while at least some of the hair styling elements are in contact with the person's hair ,
• A25. A method according to A24, wherein rotating the rotatable bases and the hair styling elements thereon while at least some of the hair styling elements are in contact with the hair of the person comprises forming a twisted hair strand of a set of hairs on the person's head.
• A26. A method according to A25, further comprising holding the hairs in the set in the twisted tress for a period of time selected to impart a helical curvature to at least some of the hairs in the set.
• A27. A method according to A24, wherein rotating the rotatable bases and hair styling elements thereon while at least some of the hair styling elements are in contact with the person's hair comprises imparting a spiral curvature to at least some of the hair on the person's head.
• A28. A method according to A27, wherein the helical curvature applied to the hair has a central axis substantially parallel to an axis of rotation of at least one of the rotatable bases.
• A29. A method according to A24, wherein rotating the rotatable bases and hair styling elements thereon while at least some of the hair styling elements are in contact with the person's hair comprises forming a first twisted hair strand from a first set of hairs on the person's head using a first one of the rotatable bases while forming a second twisted strand of hair from a second set of hairs on the person's head using a second of the rotatable bases.

When inserting elements of the present invention or the preferred embodiment (s) thereof, the articles "a", "an", "the" and "said" are intended to mean that one or more of the elements are present. The terms "include," "including," and "comprising" are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be elements other than the listed elements.

As various changes may be made to the above devices, systems, and methods without departing from the scope of the invention, it is intended that all matter contained in the above description and shown in the accompanying drawings be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense become.

Claims (20)

A hand-held hair styling device, the hair styling device comprising: a body; a rotatable base mounted on the body for rotation relative to the body about an axis of rotation, the rotatable base having an exposed surface generally facing away from the body, wherein the axis of rotation of the rotatable base is substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis the body extends; a hair styling element mounted on the exposed surface of the rotatable base for rotation relative to the body having the rotatable base, the hair styling element extending generally away from the body; and a selectively operable drive system for driving rotation of the rotatable base relative to the body, the drive system comprising: an actuator carried by the body for movement between a first position and a second position to permit rotation of the rotatable base and a transmission connecting the actuator to the rotatable base to transmit the movement of the actuator from the first position to the second position into rotation of the rotatable base in a first direction, wherein the transmission is configured to rotate prevent the rotatable base in a second direction opposite to the first direction upon movement of the actuator from the second position to the first position. Hand held hair styling device behind Claim 1 wherein the transmission comprises a directional drive member operably connected to the rotatable base upon movement of the actuator from the first position to the second position to drive rotation of the rotatable base and that of the rotatable base upon movement of the rotatable base Actuator is operatively separated from the second position to the first position. Hand held hair styling device behind Claim 2 wherein the directional drive member is carried by the body to move on the body between a drive position operably connected to the rotatable base and an idle position operatively separated from the rotatable base. Hand held hair styling device behind Claim 3 wherein the directional drive element is further supported by the body for rotation relative to the body. Hand held hair styling device behind Claim 4 wherein the directional drive element comprises a directional drive gear and a shaft, the shaft being mounted to the body for rotational movement and for sliding movement relative to the body. Hand held hair styling device behind Claim 5 wherein the body defines a channel that receives the shaft of the drive member to rotate in the channel and move along the channel. Hand held hair styling device behind Claim 6 wherein the transmission further comprises a main gear operatively connected to the actuator such that movement of the actuator from the first position to the second position generates rotation of the main gear to a working mode and movement of the actuator from the second position to the second gear position first position generates a rotation of the main gear in an idle mode over the working mode. Hand held hair styling device behind Claim 7 wherein the transmission further comprises a base gear mounted on the rotatable base for common rotation with the rotatable base. Hand held hair styling device behind Claim 8 wherein the directional drive gear is operatively engaged with the main gear in the work mode and the idle mode. Hand held hair styling device behind Claim 9 wherein the rotation of the main gear in the working mode moves the shaft of the drive gear in the channel to a position in which the drive gear meshes with the base gear to drive the rotation of the rotatable base. Hand held hair styling device behind Claim 10 wherein the rotation of the main gear in idle mode moves the shaft of the drive gear in the channel away from the base gear, whereby the rotation of the main gear in the idle mode is not transmitted to the base gear. Hand held hair styling device behind Claim 11 , wherein the channel has an oval shape. Hand held hair styling device behind Claim 1 further comprising a spring biasing the actuator toward the first position whereby the actuator automatically returns to the first position upon release of the actuator in the second position. Hand held hair styling device behind Claim 1 and further comprising a plurality of rotatable bases mounted on the body for rotation relative to the body, the rotatable bases operably connected for simultaneous rotation. A hand-held hair styling device, the hair styling device comprising: a body; a rotatable base mounted on the body for rotation relative to the body about an axis of rotation, the rotatable base having an exposed surface generally facing away from the body, wherein the axis of rotation of the rotatable base is substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis the body extends; at least one hair styling element mounted on the exposed surface of the rotatable base for rotation relative to the body having the rotatable base, the at least one hair styling element extending generally away from the body; and a selectively operable drive system for driving rotation of the rotatable base relative to the body, the drive system comprising: an actuator carried by the body for movement between two positions to actuate rotation of the rotatable base, and a transmission connecting the actuator to the rotatable base for transmitting the movement of the actuator from the first position to the second position to a rotation of the rotatable base in a first direction, wherein the transmission is configured to be a single 360 °. Rotation of the rotatable base around the axis of rotation generates as the actuator moves from the first position to the second position. Hand held hair styling device behind Claim 15 wherein the transmission includes transmission gears selected to translate movement of the actuator from the second position to the first position into the single 360 ° rotation of the rotatable base. Hand held hair styling device behind Claim 16 wherein the transmission gears comprise a first drive gear, a second drive gear having a diameter larger than the first drive gear, an idle gear and a base gear mounted on the rotatable base for common rotation with the rotatable base. Hand held hair styling device behind Claim 17 wherein the actuator is engaged with the first drive gear and the second drive gear is connected to the first drive gear for common rotation with the first drive gear. Hand held hair styling device behind Claim 18 wherein the idle gear is mounted for engagement with the base gear upon movement of the actuator from the first position to the second position and is free of engagement with the base gear upon movement of the actuator from the second position to the first position. Hand held hair styling device behind Claim 15 , which further comprises a plurality of rotatable bases, the transmission gears further comprising a base gear on each of the rotatable bases and an idler gear disposed between each two adjacent ones of the rotatable bases, the intermediate gears being configured to rotate all rotatable bases at one Moving the actuator from the first position to the second position to rotate in the same direction.

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