EP1339299B1 - Hair dryer with device varying the air stream outlet cross-section - Google Patents

Hair dryer with device varying the air stream outlet cross-section Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1339299B1
EP1339299B1 EP01999298A EP01999298A EP1339299B1 EP 1339299 B1 EP1339299 B1 EP 1339299B1 EP 01999298 A EP01999298 A EP 01999298A EP 01999298 A EP01999298 A EP 01999298A EP 1339299 B1 EP1339299 B1 EP 1339299B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
nozzle
flaps
air
ring
hair dryer
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EP01999298A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP1339299A1 (en
Inventor
Marc Legrain
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SEB SA
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SEB SA
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    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A45HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
    • A45DHAIRDRESSING OR SHAVING EQUIPMENT; EQUIPMENT FOR COSMETICS OR COSMETIC TREATMENTS, e.g. FOR MANICURING OR PEDICURING
    • A45D20/00Hair drying devices; Accessories therefor
    • A45D20/04Hot-air producers
    • A45D20/08Hot-air producers heated electrically
    • A45D20/10Hand-held drying devices, e.g. air douches
    • A45D20/12Details thereof or accessories therefor, e.g. nozzles, stands
    • A45D20/122Diffusers, e.g. for variable air flow

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to an apparatus for drying and / or shape of the hair, more particularly a hair dryer, comprising a device for varying the outlet section of the air flow blown by the latter.
  • Hair dryers for private or professional use usually include a housing provided with a handle and equipped with air circulation means between an inlet grille in the housing and an outlet port of the latter, and means for heating the blown air.
  • the air circulation means are constituted by a fan driven by an electric motor. The problem that often arises with these devices is how to change the intensity and shape the airflow coming out of the latter in order to adapt it to different hair styles.
  • each accessory constitutes an exit nozzle of a specific shape and function and, by Therefore, to switch from one form to another or to vary the type of drying it is necessary to change the accessory.
  • This has the disadvantage of having to change during drying several accessories, which becomes annoying especially that the accessories are mounted near the heating means.
  • Another disadvantage is to multiply the number of accessories, and therefore occupy an important place in the storage space planned for the device, while having a limited number of forms and intensities of the flow air.
  • hair dryers including those described in the documents FR 1 546 750 or US 4 977 306 each use a pair of movable shutters articulated around the axes located inside the air evacuation duct hot so as to close more or less this conduit. So, we can restrict more or less the free section of the air duct by pivoting flaps around of their hinge axis but the newly created passage section not being visible from the outside, it becomes difficult to choose the orientation of the hair dryer compared to the lock of hair. This is inconvenient in early drying and becomes troublesome during the operation when it takes continually coordinate the position of the shutters to the degree of drying or shaping the hairstyle.
  • flow variation devices are incorporated in the construction of the apparatus, they are not intended as that accessories of the latter.
  • two drawers rotate perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the appliance and make protrudes laterally to obtain the flat jet position, so that the device delivers a jet of air deflected on the sides, and not concentrated in the center to fix locally the hairstyle; in addition, the two lateral drawers increase the size and the size of the nozzle.
  • This accessory is a diffuser to be attached to the outlet of a hair dryer, the diffuser having a hollow body provided at a blowing end with outlet orifices of air and other through-holes with hollow fingers at the free end of which are also made air outlet orifices blown by the device.
  • the apparatus also comprises a device capable of varying the finger lengths so that they deviate more or less from the leather hairy and they send a diffuse airflow.
  • This type of accessory does not allow not to get a concentrated airflow to fix the hairstyle and it's otherwise very cumbersome.
  • a broadcaster with a large volume nor does it allow to accelerate a flow of air. If a small acceleration takes place, it disrupts the flow of air that has become very turbulent because of a large number of variation of sections, which generates difficulties of regulation in temperature the air flow leaving the diffuser.
  • the object of the present invention is to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks and to propose a hairdryer equipped with a device of continuous variation of the outlet section of the flow of air blown by the device, allowing to pass gradually from a multidirectional burst flow to a concentrated flow monodirectional and vice versa, while using a compact and simplified construction.
  • Another object of the invention is a hair dryer provided with a device to vary the shape of the outlet section of the air flow blown by the device, while allowing to visualize the shape of the section thus modified.
  • a further object of the invention is a hair dryer provided with a device air flow variation that is efficient, reliable in operation and easy to industrialize for a lower manufacturing cost.
  • a hair dryer with a housing comprising means for circulating a flow of air between one end input and an output end of said housing, and a device arranged to proximity of the output end to modify the output section of the air flow, said device comprising at least two flaps arranged in the flow of air as well as actuating means for pivoting said flaps, due to that said device comprises a tubular nozzle disposed between the two flaps and movable axially with respect to the air flow.
  • the device modifying the outlet section of the air flow therefore comprises at least two pivoting flaps arranged on either side of a tubular nozzle, arranged preferably in the center of the device, the longitudinal axis of the device being in extension of the longitudinal axis of the hair dryer, parallel to the air flow.
  • the flaps are arranged to pivot about the pivot axes which can be parallel, perpendicular or even inclined to the flow of air so as to shut off during their movement the outlet section of the flow air.
  • this output section varies between a maximum value when the shutters allow the flow of air blown by the appliance to pass, by orienting it or not to the outside, and a minimum value when they close this passage.
  • the nozzle tubular being located between the two flaps, the flow of air is channeled out of the device through the latter at the time of closing the section of exit of the air by the shutters.
  • the nozzle being movable axially, it is able to project relative to the housing during its movement, which allows the user to orient it by relative to the shaping or drying area of the hair.
  • the nozzle can to be moved together with the shutters by the same mechanism or using separate actuation mechanisms, or alternatively, could be displaced in a time-displaced manner, the mechanism actuator used that can initially move the flaps and the nozzle by the next or vice versa.
  • the blown air can take any direction printed by the outlet duct of the device or it can to be guided, especially to the outside by the shape of the shutters.
  • the flaps swivel, they fold towards the nozzle so as to direct the flow of air into the space between the flaps and the nozzle.
  • said nozzle is movable in translation.
  • the device according to the invention comprises means of command that simultaneously actuate the movement of the nozzle and the one Shutters.
  • said control means comprise a movable ring rotation.
  • the device for varying the outlet section of the air flow is arranged at the air outlet end of the hair dryer, for this it is configured so to adapt to the shape of the housing, so it is cylindrical.
  • a ring having the same shape and a diameter of a value comparable to that of the duct air outlet of the hair dryer can be easily rotated by the the user's hand, the movement of the ring can then be used to operate the nozzle and / or the shutters. This confers the advantage of having a compact construction while enjoying a good range of motion control.
  • the device of the invention comprises a first mechanism which transforms the rotational movement of the ring into a movement of translation of the nozzle and a second mechanism that transforms the movement of translation of the nozzle or rotation of the ring in a movement of flaps, at least one of said mechanisms being controlled by the rotating ring.
  • the rotation of the ring can act directly on the pivoting of the shutters which in turn act on the displacement of the nozzle or, conversely, the ring can cause the nozzle which leads, in turn, the shutters.
  • Such a construction allows by a simple operation of the rotary ring to obtain all the desired movements of flaps and nozzle in a simple and effective way Operating.
  • said first mechanism is constituted by a lug integral with the outer surface of a nozzle body that moves in a groove helical pattern on the inner surface of the control ring.
  • said second mechanism consists of a pin, integral with one end of the flap, moving in an inclined groove performed on the inner surface of the nozzle body.
  • the translational movement of the nozzle body, supporting the nozzle in its part central, is used to move the flap pivotally when ergot, solidary of one of the ends of the shutter, follows the path imposed by a groove slant on the inner surface of the nozzle body.
  • the integral lug of one of the flaps moves in a groove angled in one direction and the integral lug of the opposite flap moves in a groove diametrically opposed to the first and inclined in the opposite direction.
  • the values of the free area of the exit section vary when moving flaps in the range of 2: 1 to 14: 1, preferably between 3: 1 and 8: 1.
  • the device of the invention is removably attached to the housing hair dryer.
  • the hair dryer made according to the invention comprises a housing 1 inside which are arranged a fan actuated in rotation by an electric motor ensuring the circulation of air between an entrance 4 located at the rear of the housing 1 and an outlet 5 located at the opposite end, means for heating the flow of air circulating inside the apparatus as well as connections to a power supply. Switching on and off the device are done by operating a switch 9.
  • the hairdryer also includes a device 3 for modifying the shape of the air outlet section S, this device being attached to the end of air outlet 5.
  • Device 3 can be permanently attached to the end 5 of the housing 1 or it can also be removably mounted relative to the housing 1, for example by bayonet attachment, forced assembly, etc.
  • the device 3 comprises a tubular support 10 which carries the other elements of the device and which includes, at one of ends, nipples 11 which engage in shape channels corresponding to the end 5 of the housing 1 to fix the device 3 to the device by a fastening of the bayonet type.
  • the opposite end of the support 10 is terminates with a peripheral rim 15 serving as a stop for a ring 28.
  • the support 10 comprises, on part of its surface two notches 16 arranged parallel to its longitudinal axis, both sides of the latter, and forming translational guides for a body nozzle 12 which will be described later.
  • the cages 18a, 18b each have a shape of a sector of cylinder and have through-holes 19a for receiving the axes of rotation 22a, 23a of the upper flaps 6a, 8a, and orifices respectively through 19b receiving the axes of rotation 22b, 23b lower flaps 6b, 8b.
  • the cages are made as two separate pieces, fixed by pressure in the windows 14, in order to simplify the manufacture and facilitate then the assembly of all the parts of the device. We could have also provide the two cages 18a, 18b together in one piece ring made of an elastic material and fixed by its elasticity around the support 10.
  • each flap 6a, 6b, 8a, 8b presents a curved fin shape, having a longitudinal section in an arc.
  • Each upper flap 6a, 8a comprises two projections forming axes of pivoting 22a, respectively 23a located at the ends of the shutter so each axis is rotatably supported in a corresponding hole 19a practiced on the cage 18a, respectively in an orifice 17a made on the inner surface of the tubular support 10. It is the same for the shutters lower 6b, 8b each having two pivot axes 22a, 22b rotatably supported by orifices 19b, 17b.
  • each upper flap 6a, 8a presents on one side a guide pin 20a, 21a in an inclined groove 24a, 25a carried out on the inner surface of the nozzle body 12.
  • the displacement of the lug 20a, 21a in the corresponding groove 24a, 25a controls the pivoting of each flap 6a, 6b.
  • the lower shutters 6b, 8b pivot about their respective axes when moving the lugs guide 20b, 21b in corresponding inclined grooves 24b, 25b formed in the inner surface of the nozzle body 12.
  • the device 3 also comprises a nozzle tubular elongated 7 made in one piece with a nozzle body 12.
  • the nozzle 7 is connected to the body 12 by legs 13 which are provided to slide in the slots 16 of the tubular support 10 and thus ensure the translational guidance of the nozzle body 12.
  • the nozzle body 12 has on its inner surface, in two zones diametrically opposite, channels or grooves 24a, 25a inclined in a direction in the upper part of this surface, respectively 24b, 25b inclined in the opposite direction in the lower part of the latter.
  • the grooves 24,25 form a certain angle with the longitudinal axis of the device. The value of the tilt angle, as well as the length of each groove are calculated to allow the complete pivoting of each component between a maximum opening position and a maximum closing position, as will be explained later.
  • the nozzle body 12 has a lug 27 on its outer surface, which is provided to engage in a helical groove 30 practiced on the inner surface of a peripheral control ring 28.
  • the sliding of the nozzle body 12 is controlled by a ring of control 28 which surrounds the tubular body 10 and the nozzle body 12. It comprises for this purpose a helical groove 30 on its inner surface in which engages the lug 27 of the nozzle body 12.
  • An internal collar 31 of the ring 28 prevents the ring from moving forward because it bumps against the rim 15 of the tubular support 10.
  • the ring 28 is prevented from move in axial translation, but it can rotate around the axis longitudinal device 3, which is in extension of the longitudinal axis hair dryer.
  • the various constituent parts of the device 3 can be executed by example in a plastic material, by an injection technique, the parts made of movement can advantageously be made of a plastic material of the POM type, or of a plastic material charged with molybdenum disulfide, or any other material having good anti-friction properties.
  • the friction can be reduced by lubricating the parts in movement or their guidance, using a grease or film of oil.
  • control ring 28 In operation, by rotating the control ring 28 around its axis, it controls the displacement in axial translation of the nozzle body 12 with the nozzle 7 by action of the groove 30 on the pin 27.
  • the amplitude of the movement of the nozzle 7 is delimited, on the one hand by the rim 15 of the support tubular 10 and, secondly, by the rear flange 32 of the control ring 28.
  • the translational movement of the nozzle body 12 in turn controls the pivoting of the upper flaps 6a, 8a in one direction and, at the same time, lower flaps 6b, 8b in the opposite direction.
  • Figures 4 and 5 illustrate the device 3 in two extreme positions of operation.
  • the nozzle 7 is located completely inside the support body 10 of the device 3 and the shutters upper 6a, 8a and lower 6b, 8b are oriented towards the periphery of the support 10, in their position of maximum spacing relative to the nozzle 7.
  • the flow of air blown by the device guided by the curved walls of shutters and the straight walls of the nozzle, follow the directions indicated by the arrows in Figure 4, it is a diffuse flow with several directions.
  • the value of the surface of the free section of air outlet is in this case maximum.
  • the control ring 28 To arrive in the position shown in FIG. the control ring 28, so that the nozzle 7 is in position completely out from the front end of the support 10 and the shutters are folded so as to completely close the space between the support 10 and the nozzle 7. In this position, the air blown by the device comes out only by central part via the nozzle 7 following the arrow indicated on the Figure 5.
  • the air flow obtained in this case is a concentrated air flow, axial direction.
  • the value of the free air outlet surface here reaches its position lower limit, this value being close to that of the section of the nozzle 7.
  • the value of the air outlet section and, therefore, the intensity of the air flow can be varied continuously, rotating in one direction or the other the control ring 28. Thus, it can take any position intermediate between the two extreme positions shown in Figures 4 and 5.
  • the angle of inclination of the two upper flaps 6a, 8a may be identical for both components, or different for each of them. Therefore, two flaps can perform a de-rotation movement of the same amplitude or different amplitudes.
  • the number of flaps to be used is not limited to two, can use several on each side of the nozzle, knowing that the capacity shutter speed increases with their number, but also the complexity of the control mechanism.
  • any other control mechanism can be used axial displacement of the nozzle, in particular it is possible to envisage using a mechanism of the rack and pinion type, of the gearwheel and worm gear type, or any other type of mechanism capable of transforming a rotary motion of the peripheral control ring in an axial translation movement of the central nozzle.
  • a motorized control for the actuation of such mechanism could also be considered.

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  • Cleaning And Drying Hair (AREA)
  • Massaging Devices (AREA)
  • Brushes (AREA)
  • Drying Of Solid Materials (AREA)

Abstract

The invention concerns a hair dryer comprising a housing (1) including means for circulating an air stream between an inlet end (4) and an outlet end (5) of said housing, and a device (3) arranged proximate to the outlet end (5) for modifying the air stream outlet cross-section (S), said device comprising at least two flaps (6a, 6b) arranged in the air stream and means for rotating said flaps. The invention is characterised in that said device (3) comprises a tubular nozzle (7) arranged between the two flaps (6a, 6b) and axially mobile relative to said air stream.

Description

La présente invention concerne un appareil de séchage et/ou ou de mise en forme des cheveux, plus particulièrement un sèche-cheveux, comportant un dispositif de variation de la section de sortie du flux d'air soufflé par ce dernier.The present invention relates to an apparatus for drying and / or shape of the hair, more particularly a hair dryer, comprising a device for varying the outlet section of the air flow blown by the latter.

Les sèche-cheveux à usage privé ou professionnel comprennent généralement un boítier muni d'une poignée et équipé de moyens de circulation de l'air entre une grille d'entrée dans le boítier et un orifice de sortie de ce dernier, ainsi que de moyens de chauffage de l'air soufflé. Les moyens de circulation de l'air sont constitués par un ventilateur entraíné par un moteur électrique. Le problème qui se pose souvent avec ces appareils est comment modifier l'intensité et la forme du flux d'air sortant de ce dernier afin de l'adapter à différents styles de coiffure.Hair dryers for private or professional use usually include a housing provided with a handle and equipped with air circulation means between an inlet grille in the housing and an outlet port of the latter, and means for heating the blown air. The air circulation means are constituted by a fan driven by an electric motor. The problem that often arises with these devices is how to change the intensity and shape the airflow coming out of the latter in order to adapt it to different hair styles.

Pour résoudre ce problème, la plupart des appareils utilisent plusieurs accessoires amovibles montés sur l'extrémité soufflante de l'appareil. Chaque accessoire constitue une buse de sortie de forme et fonction déterminée et, par conséquent, pour passer d'une forme à l'autre ou pour varier le type de séchage il faut changer d'accessoire. Ceci présente l'inconvénient de devoir changer en cours de séchage plusieurs accessoires, ce qui devient gênant surtout que les accessoires sont montés à proximité des moyens de chauffage. Un autre inconvénient est de multiplier le nombre d'accessoires, et donc d'occuper une place importante dans l'espace de rangement prévu pour l'appareil, tout en disposant d'un nombre limité de formes et intensités du flux d'air.To solve this problem, most devices use multiple removable accessories mounted on the blower end of the appliance. Each accessory constitutes an exit nozzle of a specific shape and function and, by Therefore, to switch from one form to another or to vary the type of drying it is necessary to change the accessory. This has the disadvantage of having to change during drying several accessories, which becomes annoying especially that the accessories are mounted near the heating means. Another disadvantage is to multiply the number of accessories, and therefore occupy an important place in the storage space planned for the device, while having a limited number of forms and intensities of the flow air.

D'autres sèche-cheveux, notamment ceux décrits dans les documents FR 1 546 750 ou US 4 977 306 utilisent chacun une paire de volets mobiles articulés autour des axes situés à l'intérieur du conduit d'évacuation de l'air chaud de manière à obturer plus ou moins ce conduit. Ainsi, on peut restreindre plus ou moins la section libre du conduit d'air par pivotement des volets autour de leur axe d'articulation, mais la section de passage nouvellement créée n'étant pas visible de l'extérieur, il devient difficile de choisir l'orientation du sèche-cheveux par rapport à la mèche de cheveux. Ceci est incommode en début de séchage et devient gênant au cours de l'opération quand il faut coordonner continuellement la position des volets au degré de séchage ou de mise en forme de la coiffure. De surcroít, les dispositifs de variation de flux sont intégrés à la construction de l'appareil, ils ne sont pas prévus en tant qu'accessoires de ce dernier.Other hair dryers, including those described in the documents FR 1 546 750 or US 4 977 306 each use a pair of movable shutters articulated around the axes located inside the air evacuation duct hot so as to close more or less this conduit. So, we can restrict more or less the free section of the air duct by pivoting flaps around of their hinge axis but the newly created passage section not being visible from the outside, it becomes difficult to choose the orientation of the hair dryer compared to the lock of hair. This is inconvenient in early drying and becomes troublesome during the operation when it takes continually coordinate the position of the shutters to the degree of drying or shaping the hairstyle. In addition, flow variation devices are incorporated in the construction of the apparatus, they are not intended as that accessories of the latter.

Dans d'autres documents, tels le FR 2 640 857 ou le WO 00/33697, le changement de section de sortie est visible, mais les mécanismes utilisés pour modifier cette section permettent à l'appareil de délivrer soit un flux d'air de section cylindrique, soit un flux d'air de section plate, sans position intermédiaire entre les deux. En outre, dans le premier document, le FR 2 640 857 au nom de la demanderesse, la buse de sortie est réalisée en un matériau élastiquement déformable, le mécanisme utilisé pour la modeler s'avérant assez complexe. En ce qui concerne le document WO 00/33697, deux tiroirs pivotent perpendiculairement à l'axe longitudinal de l'appareil et font saillie latéralement pour obtenir la position jet plat, ce qui fait que l'appareil délivre un jet d'air dévié sur les côtés, et non pas concentré au centre pour fixer localement la coiffure; de plus, les deux tiroirs latéraux augmentent le gabarit et l'encombrement de la buse.In other documents, such as FR 2,640,857 or WO 00/33697, the change of exit section is visible, but the mechanisms used to modify this section allow the device to deliver either a flow of air from cylindrical section, ie a flat section air flow, without position intermediate between the two. In addition, in the first document, the FR 2 640 857 in the name of the applicant, the outlet nozzle is made in one elastically deformable material, the mechanism used to shape it proving quite complex. With regard to WO 00/33697, two drawers rotate perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the appliance and make protrudes laterally to obtain the flat jet position, so that the device delivers a jet of air deflected on the sides, and not concentrated in the center to fix locally the hairstyle; in addition, the two lateral drawers increase the size and the size of the nozzle.

Un autre type d'accessoire utilisé pour dévier le flux d'air produit par un sèche-cheveux est décrit dans le document WO 97/09899. Cet accessoire est un diffuseur destiné à être fixé à la sortie d'un sèche-cheveux, le diffuseur comportant un corps creux muni à une extrémité soufflante d'orifices de sortie d'air et d'autres orifices traversés par des doigts creux à l'extrémité libre desquels sont également pratiqués des orifices de sortie de l'air soufflé par l'appareil. L'appareil comporte par ailleurs un dispositif apte à faire varier la longueur des doigts de manière à ce qu'ils s'écartent plus ou moins du cuir chevelu et qu'ils envoient un flux d'air diffus. Ce type d'accessoire ne permet pas d'obtenir un flux d'air concentré pour fixer la coiffure et il est par ailleurs très encombrant. De surcroít, un diffuseur ayant un volume important ne permet pas non plus d'accélérer un flux d'air. Si une petite accélération a lieu, elle perturbe le flux d'air devenu très turbulent du fait d'un nombre important de variation de sections, ce qui génère des difficultés de régulation en température du flux d'air sortant du diffuseur.Another type of accessory used to deflect the airflow produced by a hair dryer is described in WO 97/09899. This accessory is a diffuser to be attached to the outlet of a hair dryer, the diffuser having a hollow body provided at a blowing end with outlet orifices of air and other through-holes with hollow fingers at the free end of which are also made air outlet orifices blown by the device. The apparatus also comprises a device capable of varying the finger lengths so that they deviate more or less from the leather hairy and they send a diffuse airflow. This type of accessory does not allow not to get a concentrated airflow to fix the hairstyle and it's otherwise very cumbersome. In addition, a broadcaster with a large volume nor does it allow to accelerate a flow of air. If a small acceleration takes place, it disrupts the flow of air that has become very turbulent because of a large number of variation of sections, which generates difficulties of regulation in temperature the air flow leaving the diffuser.

Le but de la présente invention est de remédier aux inconvénients précités et de proposer un sèche-cheveux muni d'un dispositif de variation continue de la section de sortie du flux d'air soufflé par l'appareil, permettant de passer progressivement d'un flux éclaté multidirectionnel à un flux concentré monodirectionnel et vice-versa, tout en utilisant un dispositif compact et de construction simplifiée.The object of the present invention is to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks and to propose a hairdryer equipped with a device of continuous variation of the outlet section of the flow of air blown by the device, allowing to pass gradually from a multidirectional burst flow to a concentrated flow monodirectional and vice versa, while using a compact and simplified construction.

Un autre but de l'invention est un sèche-cheveux muni d'un dispositif permettant de varier la forme de la section de sortie du flux d'air soufflé par l'appareil, tout en permettant de visualiser la forme de la section ainsi modifiée.Another object of the invention is a hair dryer provided with a device to vary the shape of the outlet section of the air flow blown by the device, while allowing to visualize the shape of the section thus modified.

Un but supplémentaire de l'invention est un sèche-cheveux muni d'un dispositif de variation du flux d'air qui soit efficace, fiable en fonctionnement et facile à industrialiser pour un moindre coût de fabrication.A further object of the invention is a hair dryer provided with a device air flow variation that is efficient, reliable in operation and easy to industrialize for a lower manufacturing cost.

Ces buts sont réalisés avec un sèche-cheveux comportant un boítier comprenant des moyens pour faire circuler un flux d'air entre une extrémité d'entrée et une extrémité de sortie dudit boítier, ainsi qu'un dispositif agencé à proximité de l'extrémité de sortie permettant de modifier la section de sortie du flux d'air, ledit dispositif comportant au moins deux volets agencés dans le flux d'air ainsi que des moyens d'actionnement en pivotement desdits volets, du fait que ledit dispositif comporte une buse tubulaire disposée entre les deux volets et mobile axialement par rapport au flux d'air.These goals are achieved with a hair dryer with a housing comprising means for circulating a flow of air between one end input and an output end of said housing, and a device arranged to proximity of the output end to modify the output section of the air flow, said device comprising at least two flaps arranged in the flow of air as well as actuating means for pivoting said flaps, due to that said device comprises a tubular nozzle disposed between the two flaps and movable axially with respect to the air flow.

Le dispositif modifiant la section de sortie du flux d'air comprend donc au moins deux volets pivotants agencés de part et d'autre d'une buse tubulaire, disposée de préférence au centre du dispositif, l'axe longitudinal du dispositif étant dans la prolongation de l'axe longitudinal du sèche-cheveux, parallèle au flux d'air. Les volets sont agencés pour pivoter autour des axes de pivotement qui peuvent être parallèles, perpendiculaires ou même inclinés par rapport au flux d'air de manière à obturer lors de leur mouvement la section de sortie du flux d'air. Ainsi, cette section de sortie varie entre une valeur maximale quand les volets laissent passer le flux d'air soufflé par l'appareil, en l'orientant ou pas vers l'extérieur, et une valeur minimale quand ils obturent ce passage. La buse tubulaire étant située entre les deux volets, le flux d'air est canalisé pour sortir du dispositif à travers cette dernière au moment de l'obturation de la section de sortie de l'air par les volets.The device modifying the outlet section of the air flow therefore comprises at least two pivoting flaps arranged on either side of a tubular nozzle, arranged preferably in the center of the device, the longitudinal axis of the device being in extension of the longitudinal axis of the hair dryer, parallel to the air flow. The flaps are arranged to pivot about the pivot axes which can be parallel, perpendicular or even inclined to the flow of air so as to shut off during their movement the outlet section of the flow air. Thus, this output section varies between a maximum value when the shutters allow the flow of air blown by the appliance to pass, by orienting it or not to the outside, and a minimum value when they close this passage. The nozzle tubular being located between the two flaps, the flow of air is channeled out of the device through the latter at the time of closing the section of exit of the air by the shutters.

La buse étant mobile axialement, elle arrive à faire saillie par rapport au boítier lors de son mouvement, ce qui permet à l'utilisateur de bien l'orienter par rapport à la zone de mise en forme ou de séchage des cheveux. La buse peut être déplacée en même temps que les volets par un même mécanisme ou en utilisant des mécanismes séparés d'actionnement, ou, dans une variante elle pourrait être déplacée de manière décalée dans le temps, le mécanisme d'actionnement utilisé pouvant déplacer initialement les volets et la buse par la suite ou vice-versa.The nozzle being movable axially, it is able to project relative to the housing during its movement, which allows the user to orient it by relative to the shaping or drying area of the hair. The nozzle can to be moved together with the shutters by the same mechanism or using separate actuation mechanisms, or alternatively, could be displaced in a time-displaced manner, the mechanism actuator used that can initially move the flaps and the nozzle by the next or vice versa.

Ainsi, lorsque les volets sont en position d'ouverture maximale, l'air soufflé peut prendre toute direction imprimée par le conduit de sortie de l'appareil ou il peut être guidé, notamment vers l'extérieur par la forme des volets. Au fur et à mesure que les volets pivotent, ils se rabattent vers la buse de manière à diriger le flux d'air dans l'espace compris entre les volets et la buse. On obtient ainsi au début un flux d'air diffus à directions multiples et à la fin un flux d'air concentré unidirectionnel, ainsi que toutes les positions intermédiaires entre ces deux positions extrêmes, le passage d'une position à l'autre pouvant se faire de manière continue ou intermittente.Thus, when the flaps are in the maximum open position, the blown air can take any direction printed by the outlet duct of the device or it can to be guided, especially to the outside by the shape of the shutters. As and when As the flaps swivel, they fold towards the nozzle so as to direct the flow of air into the space between the flaps and the nozzle. We obtain so at the beginning a diffuse air flow with multiple directions and at the end a flow of air unidirectional concentrate, as well as any intermediate positions between these two extreme positions, the transition from one position to another do it continuously or intermittently.

On peut donc obtenir diverses formes pour la section de sortie du flux d'air, et donc, diverses intensités pour le flux d'air soufflé par le sèche-cheveux, en passant d'un flux d'air diffus, de faible intensité, utile notamment pour le début de séchage de la chevelure, jusqu'à un flux d'air fort et concentré qui peut être dirigé facilement vers une boucle à fixer ou toute autre zone de chevelure afin de faciliter la mise en forme de la coiffure.Various forms can thus be obtained for the outlet section of the air flow, and therefore, various intensities for the flow of air blown by the hair dryer, in passing from a diffuse air flow, low intensity, useful especially for the beginning from drying the hair to a strong and concentrated airflow that can be easily directed to a loop to fix or any other area of hair so to facilitate the shaping of the hairstyle.

De préférence, ladite buse est mobile en translation.Preferably, said nozzle is movable in translation.

On pourrait, certes, imaginer le déplacement de la buse en direction axiale selon un mouvement hélicoïdal ou tout autre mouvement combiné ayant une composante axiale. Toutefois, on a choisi un mouvement en translation axiale de la buse pour des raisons de simplification constructive et également pour obtenir un écoulement laminaire du flux d'air à travers la buse, plus indiqué pour fixer une coiffure.One could, of course, imagine the displacement of the nozzle in the axial direction according to a helical movement or any other combined movement having a axial component. However, we chose a movement in axial translation of the nozzle for reasons of constructive simplification and also to obtain a laminar flow of the airflow through the nozzle, more indicated to fix a hair cut.

Avantageusement, le dispositif selon l'invention comprend des moyens de commande qui actionnent en même temps le déplacement de la buse et celui des volets.Advantageously, the device according to the invention comprises means of command that simultaneously actuate the movement of the nozzle and the one Shutters.

Ceci simplifie beaucoup l'usage et le confort d'utilisation du sèche-cheveux muni d'un tel dispositif, car avec un seul moyen de commande on peut régler l'intensité du flux d'air soufflé et la position de la buse.This greatly simplifies the use and comfort of use of the hair dryer provided of such a device, because with a single control means it is possible to adjust the intensity the blown air flow and the position of the nozzle.

De préférence, lesdits moyens de commande comprennent une bague mobile en rotation.Preferably, said control means comprise a movable ring rotation.

Le dispositif de variation de la section de sortie du flux d'air est agencé à l'extrémité de sortie d'air du sèche-cheveux, pour ceci, il est configuré de manière à s'adapter à la forme du boítier, il est donc de forme cylindrique. Une bague ayant la même forme et un diamètre d'une valeur comparable à celui du conduit de sortie d'air du sèche-cheveux peut être facilement entraínée en rotation par la main de l'utilisateur, le mouvement de la bague pouvant alors être utilisé pour actionner la buse et/ou les volets. Ceci confère l'avantage d'avoir une construction compacte tout en bénéficiant d'une bonne amplitude du mouvement de commande. The device for varying the outlet section of the air flow is arranged at the air outlet end of the hair dryer, for this it is configured so to adapt to the shape of the housing, so it is cylindrical. A ring having the same shape and a diameter of a value comparable to that of the duct air outlet of the hair dryer can be easily rotated by the the user's hand, the movement of the ring can then be used to operate the nozzle and / or the shutters. This confers the advantage of having a compact construction while enjoying a good range of motion control.

Avantageusement, le dispositif de l'invention comprend un premier mécanisme qui transforme le mouvement de rotation de la bague en un mouvement de translation de la buse et un deuxième mécanisme qui transforme le mouvement de translation de la buse ou de rotation de la bague en un mouvement de pivotement des volets, au moins l'un desdits mécanismes étant commandé par la bague rotative.Advantageously, the device of the invention comprises a first mechanism which transforms the rotational movement of the ring into a movement of translation of the nozzle and a second mechanism that transforms the movement of translation of the nozzle or rotation of the ring in a movement of flaps, at least one of said mechanisms being controlled by the rotating ring.

Ainsi, la rotation de la bague peut agir directement sur le pivotement des volets qui agissent à leur tour sur le déplacement de la buse ou, inversement, la bague peut entraíner la buse qui entraíne, à son tour, les volets. Une telle construction permet par un simple actionnement de la bague rotative d'obtenir tous les mouvements souhaités des volets et de la buse d'une manière simple et efficace en fonctionnement.Thus, the rotation of the ring can act directly on the pivoting of the shutters which in turn act on the displacement of the nozzle or, conversely, the ring can cause the nozzle which leads, in turn, the shutters. Such a construction allows by a simple operation of the rotary ring to obtain all the desired movements of flaps and nozzle in a simple and effective way Operating.

De préférence, ledit premier mécanisme est constitué par un ergot solidaire de la surface extérieure d'un corps de buse qui se déplace dans une rainure hélicoïdale pratiquée sur la surface intérieure de la bague de commande.Preferably, said first mechanism is constituted by a lug integral with the outer surface of a nozzle body that moves in a groove helical pattern on the inner surface of the control ring.

Ainsi, la rotation de la bague de commande autour de l'axe longitudinal de l'appareil, qui est celui du flux d'air au centre du dispositif, est transformée en une translation de la buse au long du même axe. Une telle construction s'avère très simple constructivement et fiable en fonctionnement.Thus, the rotation of the control ring around the longitudinal axis of the apparatus, which is that of the airflow at the center of the device, is transformed into a translation of the nozzle along the same axis. Such a construction is very simple constructively and reliably in operation.

Avantageusement, ledit deuxième mécanisme est constitué par un ergot, solidaire d'une extrémité du volet, se déplaçant dans une rainure inclinée pratiquée sur la surface intérieure du corps de buse.Advantageously, said second mechanism consists of a pin, integral with one end of the flap, moving in an inclined groove performed on the inner surface of the nozzle body.

Le mouvement en translation du corps de buse, supportant la buse en sa partie centrale, est utilisé pour déplacer en pivotement le volet lorsqu'un ergot, solidaire d'une des extrémités du volet, suit le cheminement imposé par une rainure inclinée pratiquée sur la surface intérieure du corps de buse. Cette construction en étant très simple à réaliser, est très bien adaptée à l'entraínement de plusieurs volets en même temps, tout en restant d'un encombrement réduit.The translational movement of the nozzle body, supporting the nozzle in its part central, is used to move the flap pivotally when ergot, solidary of one of the ends of the shutter, follows the path imposed by a groove slant on the inner surface of the nozzle body. This construction being very simple to perform, is very well adapted to the training of several shutters at the same time, while remaining compact.

De préférence, l'ergot solidaire d'un des volets se déplace dans une rainure inclinée dans un sens et l'ergot solidaire du volet opposé se déplace dans une rainure diamétralement opposée à la première et inclinée dans le sens contraire.Preferably, the integral lug of one of the flaps moves in a groove angled in one direction and the integral lug of the opposite flap moves in a groove diametrically opposed to the first and inclined in the opposite direction.

Ainsi, on obtient deux pivotements simultanés, mais dans des sens opposés des deux volets situés de part et d'autre de la buse, un des volets tournant dans le sens des aiguilles d'une montre et l'autre dans un sens trigonométrique, ce qui fait que les volets se ferment progressivement, de préférence vers la buse, en canalisant l'air dans un filet de plus en plus étroit jusqu'à ce qu'ils deviennent tangents à la buse et ferment complètement l'espace existant entre les volets et la buse.Thus, we obtain two simultaneous pivoting, but in opposite directions of the two flaps located on either side of the nozzle, one of the shutters rotating in the clockwise and the other in a counterclockwise direction, which shutters are closed gradually, preferably towards the nozzle, in channeling the air into a narrower netting until they become tangents to the nozzle and completely close the space between the flaps and the nozzle.

De manière avantageuse, les valeurs de la surface libre de la section de sortie varient lors du déplacement des volets dans une plage comprise entre 2:1 et 14:1, de préférence entre 3:1 et 8:1.Advantageously, the values of the free area of the exit section vary when moving flaps in the range of 2: 1 to 14: 1, preferably between 3: 1 and 8: 1.

Lors des essais effectués on a constaté qu'en déterminant les dimensions des volets et de la buse on arrive à obtenir des modifications de la section de sortie dans les plages énoncées, et donc de concentrer le flux d'air de manière optimale pour sécher et fixer la coiffure, sans être trop agressif pour les cheveux. On a également constaté qu'une réduction de la surface de la section de sortie dans ces limites permettrait une utilisation en continu, sans coupure du thermostat déclenchée par l'échauffement excessif de l'élément chauffant.In the tests carried out it has been found that by determining the dimensions of the shutters and the nozzle we get to get changes from the output section in the stated ranges, and therefore to concentrate the airflow so optimal for drying and fixing the hairstyle, without being too aggressive for the hair. It has also been found that a reduction in the area of the exit section within these limits would allow continuous use without interruption of thermostat triggered by excessive heating of the heating element.

Dé préférence, le dispositif de l'invention est fixé de manière amovible au boítier du sèche-cheveux.Preferably, the device of the invention is removably attached to the housing hair dryer.

Ceci permet d'enlever le dispositif et de le nettoyer ou, également, d'utiliser le sèche-cheveux sans embout ou encore de monter d'autres accessoires sur le sèche-cheveux. This allows the device to be removed and cleaned, or to use the hair dryer without a nozzle or to mount other accessories on the hair dryer.

D'autres caractéristiques et avantages de l'invention apparaítront plus clairement à la lumière de la description et des dessins qui suivent, illustrant, à titre d'exemples non limitatifs, un mode de mise en oeuvre de l'invention. Ainsi, référence est faite aux figures 1 à 5, où :

  • la figure 1 est une vue en perspective d'un sèche-cheveux équipé d'un dispositif de variation de la section de sortie d'air conforme à l'invention;
  • la figure 2 est une vue en perspective éclatée du dispositif de variation de la section de sortie d'air de la figure 1;
  • la figure 2a représente une vue en coupe partielle selon le plan A-A de la partie supérieure du corps de buse du dispositif de l'invention;
  • la figure 3 est une vue en coupe transversale du dispositif de la figure 1 utilisant un plan de section passant par les axes de rotation des volets;
  • la figure 4 est une vue en perspective d'une coupe axiale du dispositif de la figure 1 montrant les volets en position d'ouverture maximale et la buse complètement en retrait;
  • la figure 5 est une vue en perspective d'une coupe axiale du dispositif de la figure 1 illustrant les volets fermés sur la buse qui est complètement sortie.
Other features and advantages of the invention will appear more clearly in the light of the description and the drawings which follow, illustrating, by way of non-limiting examples, an embodiment of the invention. Thus, reference is made to FIGS. 1 to 5, where:
  • Figure 1 is a perspective view of a hairdryer equipped with a device for varying the air outlet section according to the invention;
  • Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of the device for varying the air outlet section of Figure 1;
  • Figure 2a shows a partial sectional view along the plane AA of the upper part of the nozzle body of the device of the invention;
  • Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the device of Figure 1 using a sectional plane passing through the axes of rotation of the flaps;
  • Figure 4 is a perspective view of an axial section of the device of Figure 1 showing the flaps in the maximum open position and the nozzle completely recessed;
  • Figure 5 is a perspective view of an axial section of the device of Figure 1 showing the shutters closed on the nozzle which is completely out.

Tel que visible à la figure 1, le sèche-cheveux réalisé conformément à l'invention comporte un boítier 1 à l'intérieur duquel sont agencés un ventilateur actionné en rotation par un moteur électrique assurant la circulation de l'air entre une entrée 4 située à l'arrière du boítier 1 et une sortie 5 située à l'extrémité opposée, des moyens de chauffage du flux d'air circulant à l'intérieur de l'appareil ainsi que des raccords à une alimentation électrique. La mise en marche et l'arrêt de l'appareil se font en actionnant un interrupteur 9.As shown in Figure 1, the hair dryer made according to the invention comprises a housing 1 inside which are arranged a fan actuated in rotation by an electric motor ensuring the circulation of air between an entrance 4 located at the rear of the housing 1 and an outlet 5 located at the opposite end, means for heating the flow of air circulating inside the apparatus as well as connections to a power supply. Switching on and off the device are done by operating a switch 9.

Le sèche-cheveux comporte également un dispositif 3 permettant de modifier la forme de la section de sortie d'air S, ce dispositif étant fixé à l'extrémité de sortie d'air 5. Le dispositif 3 peut être fixé de manière permanente à l'extrémité 5 du boítier 1ou il peut également être monté amovible par rapport au boítier 1, par exemple par une fixation à baïonnette, par un assemblage forcé, etc.The hairdryer also includes a device 3 for modifying the shape of the air outlet section S, this device being attached to the end of air outlet 5. Device 3 can be permanently attached to the end 5 of the housing 1 or it can also be removably mounted relative to the housing 1, for example by bayonet attachment, forced assembly, etc.

Tel que mieux visible à la figure 2, le dispositif 3 comprend un support tubulaire 10 qui porte les autres éléments du dispositif et qui comporte, à l'une des ses extrémités, des tétons 11 qui s'engagent dans des canaux de forme correspondante à l'extrémité 5 du boítier 1 pour fixer le dispositif 3 à l'appareil par une fixation du type à baïonnettes. L'extrémité opposée du support 10 se termine par un rebord périphérique 15 servant de butée pour une bague périphérique 28. Le support 10 comporte, sur une partie de sa surface extérieure, deux entailles 16 disposées parallèlement à son axe longitudinal, de part et d'autre de ce dernier, et formant guidages en translation pour un corps de buse 12 qui sera décrit plus loin.As best seen in FIG. 2, the device 3 comprises a tubular support 10 which carries the other elements of the device and which includes, at one of ends, nipples 11 which engage in shape channels corresponding to the end 5 of the housing 1 to fix the device 3 to the device by a fastening of the bayonet type. The opposite end of the support 10 is terminates with a peripheral rim 15 serving as a stop for a ring 28. The support 10 comprises, on part of its surface two notches 16 arranged parallel to its longitudinal axis, both sides of the latter, and forming translational guides for a body nozzle 12 which will be described later.

Deux fenêtres 14 diamétralement opposées sont découpées dans le support 10 et leurs bords servent de maintien pour deux cages : supérieure 18a et inférieure 18b. Les cages 18a,18b ont chacune une forme de secteur de cylindre et comportent des orifices traversants 19a de réception des axes de rotation 22a, 23a des volets supérieurs 6a,8a, et respectivement des orifices traversants 19b de réception des axes de rotation 22b,23b des volets inférieurs 6b,8b. Les cages sont réalisées sous forme de deux pièces à part, fixées par pression dans les fenêtres 14, ceci afin de simplifier la fabrication et faciliter ensuite le montage de l'ensemble des pièces du dispositif. On aurait pu également prévoir les deux cages 18a,18b réunies en une seule pièce annulaire réalisée en un matériau élastique et fixée par son élasticité autour du support 10.Two diametrically opposite windows 14 are cut in the support 10 and their edges serve as support for two cages: upper 18a and lower 18b. The cages 18a, 18b each have a shape of a sector of cylinder and have through-holes 19a for receiving the axes of rotation 22a, 23a of the upper flaps 6a, 8a, and orifices respectively through 19b receiving the axes of rotation 22b, 23b lower flaps 6b, 8b. The cages are made as two separate pieces, fixed by pressure in the windows 14, in order to simplify the manufacture and facilitate then the assembly of all the parts of the device. We could have also provide the two cages 18a, 18b together in one piece ring made of an elastic material and fixed by its elasticity around the support 10.

Dans l'exemple présenté aux figures annexées il a été prévu d'utiliser quatre volets : deux supérieurs 6a,8a, situés en la partie supérieure du dispositif 3 par rapport à son axe central, et deux volets inférieurs 6b,8b situés du côté opposé, symétriquement aux premiers par rapport à l'axe central du dispositif 3.In the example presented in the appended figures it has been planned to use four flaps: two upper 6a, 8a, located at the top of the device 3 by relative to its central axis, and two lower flaps 6b, 8b located on the opposite side, symmetrically to the first with respect to the central axis of the device 3.

Tel qu'on peut le remarquer sur les dessins, chaque volet 6a,6b,8a,8b présente une forme d'ailette recourbée, ayant une section longitudinale en arc de cercle.As can be seen from the drawings, each flap 6a, 6b, 8a, 8b presents a curved fin shape, having a longitudinal section in an arc.

Chaque volet supérieur 6a,8a comporte deux saillies formant axes de pivotement 22a, respectivement 23a situés aux extrémités du volet de manière à ce que chaque axe est soutenu en rotation dans un orifice correspondant 19a pratiqué sur la cage 18a, respectivement dans un orifice 17a pratiqué sur la surface intérieure du support tubulaire 10. Il en est de même pour les volets inférieurs 6b,8b qui comportent chacun deux axes de pivotement 22a,22b supportés en rotation par des orifices 19b, 17b.Each upper flap 6a, 8a comprises two projections forming axes of pivoting 22a, respectively 23a located at the ends of the shutter so each axis is rotatably supported in a corresponding hole 19a practiced on the cage 18a, respectively in an orifice 17a made on the inner surface of the tubular support 10. It is the same for the shutters lower 6b, 8b each having two pivot axes 22a, 22b rotatably supported by orifices 19b, 17b.

En plus des deux saillies de pivotement, chaque volet supérieur 6a,8a présente sur un côté un ergot de guidage 20a,21 a dans une rainure inclinée 24a,25a réalisée sur la surface intérieure du corps de buse 12. Le déplacement de l'ergot 20a,21a dans la rainure correspondante 24a,25a commande le pivotement de chaque volet 6a,6b. De la même manière, les volets inférieurs 6b,8b pivotent autour de leurs axes respectifs lors du déplacement des ergots de guidage 20b,21b dans des rainures inclinées correspondantes 24b,25b pratiquées dans la surface intérieure du corps de buse 12.In addition to the two pivoting projections, each upper flap 6a, 8a presents on one side a guide pin 20a, 21a in an inclined groove 24a, 25a carried out on the inner surface of the nozzle body 12. The displacement of the lug 20a, 21a in the corresponding groove 24a, 25a controls the pivoting of each flap 6a, 6b. In the same way, the lower shutters 6b, 8b pivot about their respective axes when moving the lugs guide 20b, 21b in corresponding inclined grooves 24b, 25b formed in the inner surface of the nozzle body 12.

Tel que visible à la figure 2, le dispositif 3 comporte également une buse tubulaire allongée 7 réalisée en une seule pièce avec un corps de buse annulaire 12. La buse 7 est reliée au corps 12 par des pattes 13 qui sont prévues pour glisser dans les fentes 16 du support tubulaire 10 et assurer ainsi le guidage en translation du corps de buse 12.As can be seen in FIG. 2, the device 3 also comprises a nozzle tubular elongated 7 made in one piece with a nozzle body 12. The nozzle 7 is connected to the body 12 by legs 13 which are provided to slide in the slots 16 of the tubular support 10 and thus ensure the translational guidance of the nozzle body 12.

Le corps de buse 12 présente sur sa surface intérieure, dans deux zones diamétralement opposées, des canaux ou rainures 24a,25a inclinées dans un sens dans la partie supérieure de cette surface, respectivement 24b,25b inclinées dans le sens contraire dans la partie inférieure de cette dernière. Les rainures 24,25 forment un certain angle avec l'axe longitudinal du dispositif. La valeur de l'angle d'inclinaison, ainsi que la longueur de chaque rainure sont calculées pour permettre le pivotement complet de chaque volet entre une position d'ouverture maximale et une position de fermeture maximale, tel qu'il sera expliqué plus loin.The nozzle body 12 has on its inner surface, in two zones diametrically opposite, channels or grooves 24a, 25a inclined in a direction in the upper part of this surface, respectively 24b, 25b inclined in the opposite direction in the lower part of the latter. The grooves 24,25 form a certain angle with the longitudinal axis of the device. The value of the tilt angle, as well as the length of each groove are calculated to allow the complete pivoting of each component between a maximum opening position and a maximum closing position, as will be explained later.

Le corps de buse 12 présente un ergot 27 sur sa surface extérieure, ergot qui est prévu pour s'engager dans une rainure hélicoïdale 30 pratiquée sur la surface intérieure d'une bague de commande périphérique 28.The nozzle body 12 has a lug 27 on its outer surface, which is provided to engage in a helical groove 30 practiced on the inner surface of a peripheral control ring 28.

Le coulissement du corps de buse 12 est commandé par une bague de commande 28 qui entoure le corps tubulaire 10 et le corps de buse 12. Elle comporte à cet effet une rainure hélicoïdale 30 sur sa surface intérieure dans laquelle s'engage l'ergot 27 du corps de buse 12. Une collerette interne 31 de la bague 28 empêche la bague de se déplacer vers l'avant car elle butte contre le rebord 15 du support tubulaire 10. Ainsi, la bague 28 est empêchée de se déplacer en translation axiale, mais elle peut tourner autour de l'axe longitudinal du dispositif 3, qui se trouve en prolongation de l'axe longitudinal du sèche-cheveux.The sliding of the nozzle body 12 is controlled by a ring of control 28 which surrounds the tubular body 10 and the nozzle body 12. It comprises for this purpose a helical groove 30 on its inner surface in which engages the lug 27 of the nozzle body 12. An internal collar 31 of the ring 28 prevents the ring from moving forward because it bumps against the rim 15 of the tubular support 10. Thus, the ring 28 is prevented from move in axial translation, but it can rotate around the axis longitudinal device 3, which is in extension of the longitudinal axis hair dryer.

Les diverses pièces constitutives du dispositif 3 peuvent être exécutées, par exemple en une matière plastique, par une technique d'injection, les pièces en mouvement pouvant avantageusement être réalisées en un matériau plastique du type POM, ou en une matière plastique chargée en bisulfure de molybdène, ou tout autre matériau ayant de bonnes propriétés antifriction. A titre de variante, les frottements peuvent être réduits par lubrification des pièces en mouvement ou de leurs guidages, en utilisant une graisse ou un film d'huile.The various constituent parts of the device 3 can be executed by example in a plastic material, by an injection technique, the parts made of movement can advantageously be made of a plastic material of the POM type, or of a plastic material charged with molybdenum disulfide, or any other material having good anti-friction properties. As alternatively, the friction can be reduced by lubricating the parts in movement or their guidance, using a grease or film of oil.

En fonctionnement, en faisant tourner la bague de commande 28 autour de son axe, on commande le déplacement en translation axiale du corps de buse 12 avec la buse 7 par action de la rainure 30 sur l'ergot 27. L'amplitude du mouvement de la buse 7 est délimitée, d'une part par le rebord 15 du support tubulaire 10 et, d'autre part, par le rebord arrière 32 de la bague de commande 28. Le déplacement en translation du corps de buse 12 commande à son tour le pivotement des volets supérieurs 6a,8a dans un sens et, en même temps, des volets inférieurs 6b,8b dans le sens contraire.In operation, by rotating the control ring 28 around its axis, it controls the displacement in axial translation of the nozzle body 12 with the nozzle 7 by action of the groove 30 on the pin 27. The amplitude of the movement of the nozzle 7 is delimited, on the one hand by the rim 15 of the support tubular 10 and, secondly, by the rear flange 32 of the control ring 28. The translational movement of the nozzle body 12 in turn controls the pivoting of the upper flaps 6a, 8a in one direction and, at the same time, lower flaps 6b, 8b in the opposite direction.

Les figures 4 et 5 illustrent le dispositif 3 dans deux positions extrêmes de fonctionnement. Dans la position de la figure 4, la buse 7 se trouve complètement à l'intérieur du corps support 10 du dispositif 3 et les volets supérieurs 6a,8a et inférieurs 6b,8b sont orientés vers la périphérie du support 10, en leur position d'écartement maximum par rapport à la buse 7. Dans cette position, le flux d'air soufflé par l'appareil, guidé par les parois recourbées des volets et par les parois rectilignes de la buse, suit les directions indiquées par les flèches de la figure 4, il s'agit d'un flux diffus à plusieurs directions. La valeur de la surface de la section libre de sortie d'air est dans ce cas maximale.Figures 4 and 5 illustrate the device 3 in two extreme positions of operation. In the position of Figure 4, the nozzle 7 is located completely inside the support body 10 of the device 3 and the shutters upper 6a, 8a and lower 6b, 8b are oriented towards the periphery of the support 10, in their position of maximum spacing relative to the nozzle 7. In this position, the flow of air blown by the device, guided by the curved walls of shutters and the straight walls of the nozzle, follow the directions indicated by the arrows in Figure 4, it is a diffuse flow with several directions. The value of the surface of the free section of air outlet is in this case maximum.

Pour arriver dans la position représentée à la figure 5, on a fait tourner au maximum la bague de commande 28, ce qui fait que la buse 7 est en position complètement sortie par rapport à l'extrémité avant du support 10 et les volets sont rabattus de manière à obturer complètement l'espace existant entre le support 10 et la buse 7. Dans cette position, l'air soufflé par l'appareil sort uniquement par partie centrale via la buse 7 en suivant la flèche indiquée sur la figure 5. Le flux d'air obtenu dans ce cas est un flux d'air concentré, de direction axiale. La valeur de la surface libre de sortie d'air atteint ici sa position limite inférieure, cette valeur étant voisine à celle de la section de la buse 7.To arrive in the position shown in FIG. the control ring 28, so that the nozzle 7 is in position completely out from the front end of the support 10 and the shutters are folded so as to completely close the space between the support 10 and the nozzle 7. In this position, the air blown by the device comes out only by central part via the nozzle 7 following the arrow indicated on the Figure 5. The air flow obtained in this case is a concentrated air flow, axial direction. The value of the free air outlet surface here reaches its position lower limit, this value being close to that of the section of the nozzle 7.

La valeur de la section de sortie d'air et, par conséquent, l'intensité du flux d'air peut être variée de manière continue, en faisant tourner dans un sens ou dans l'autre la bague de commande 28. Ainsi, elle peut prendre toute position intermédiaire entre les deux positions extrêmes représentées aux figures 4 et 5.The value of the air outlet section and, therefore, the intensity of the air flow can be varied continuously, rotating in one direction or the other the control ring 28. Thus, it can take any position intermediate between the two extreme positions shown in Figures 4 and 5.

D'autres variantes de l'invention peuvent être envisagées sans sortir du cadre de ses revendications.Other variants of the invention can be envisaged without departing from the scope of his claims.

Ainsi, l'angle d'inclinaison des deux volets supérieurs 6a, 8a peut être identique pour les deux volets, ou différent pour chacun d'entre eux. Par conséquent, les deux volets peuvent effectuer un mouvement de-rotation de même amplitude ou d'amplitudes différentes.Thus, the angle of inclination of the two upper flaps 6a, 8a may be identical for both components, or different for each of them. Therefore, two flaps can perform a de-rotation movement of the same amplitude or different amplitudes.

De la même manière, le nombre de volets à utiliser n'est pas limité à deux, on peut en utiliser plusieurs de chaque côté de la buse, sachant que la capacité d'obturation des volets augmente avec leur nombre, mais également la complexité du mécanisme de commande. In the same way, the number of flaps to be used is not limited to two, can use several on each side of the nozzle, knowing that the capacity shutter speed increases with their number, but also the complexity of the control mechanism.

Il est également évident qu'on peut utiliser tout autre mécanisme de commande en déplacement axial de la buse, notamment on peut envisager d'utiliser un mécanisme du type pignon et crémaillère, du type roue dentée et vis sans fin, ou tout autre type de mécanisme capable de transformer un mouvement rotatif de la bague de commande périphérique en un mouvement de translation axiale de la buse centrale. Une commande motorisée pour l'actionnement d'un tel mécanisme pourrait également être envisagée.It is also obvious that any other control mechanism can be used axial displacement of the nozzle, in particular it is possible to envisage using a mechanism of the rack and pinion type, of the gearwheel and worm gear type, or any other type of mechanism capable of transforming a rotary motion of the peripheral control ring in an axial translation movement of the central nozzle. A motorized control for the actuation of such mechanism could also be considered.

Claims (10)

  1. A hair dryer comprising a case (1) including means for causing a flow of air to flow between an inlet end (4) and an outlet end (5) of said case, and a device (3) arranged in the proximity of the outlet end (5) enabling the outlet section (S) of the air flow to be modified, said device (3) comprising at least two flaps (6a, 6b) arranged in the air flow together with actuator means for pivoting said flaps, the hair dryer being characterized in that said device (3) comprises a tubular nozzle (7) disposed between the two flaps (6a, 6b) and axially movable relative to the flow of air.
  2. A device according to claim 1, characterized in that said nozzle (7) is movable in translation.
  3. A device according to claim 1, characterized in that it includes control means (28) that actuate displacement of the nozzle (7) simultaneously with displacement of the flaps (6a, 6b).
  4. A device according to claim 3, characterized in that said control means comprise a ring (28) that is movable in rotation.
  5. A device according to claim 4, characterized in that it includes a first mechanism that transforms the rotary movement of the ring (28) into a movement in translation of the nozzle (7), and a second mechanism that transforms the movement in translation of the nozzle (7) or in rotation of the ring (28) into a pivoting movement of the flaps (6a, 6b), at least one of said mechanisms being controlled by the rotary ring (28).
  6. A device according to claim 5, characterized in that said first mechanism is constituted by a stud (27) secured to the outside surface of a nozzle body (12) and that moves in a helical groove (30) formed in the inside surface of the control ring (28).
  7. A device according to claim 5, characterized in that said second mechanism is constituted by a stud (20a, 20b) secured to one end of the flap (6a, 6b) and moving in a sloping groove (24a, 24b) formed in the inside surface of the nozzle body (12).
  8. A device according to claim 7, characterized in that the stud (20a) secured to one of the flaps (6a) moves in a groove (24a) that slopes in one direction, and the stud (20b) secured to the opposite flap (6b) moves in a groove (24b) that is diametrically opposite the first groove (24a) and that slopes in the opposite direction.
  9. A device according to claim 1, characterized in that the free area of the outlet section (S) varies during displacement of the flaps (6a, 6b) over a ratio lying in the range 2:1 to 14:1, preferably in the range 3:1 to 8:1.
  10. A device according to any preceding claim, characterized in that it is releasably secured to the case (1) of the hair dryer.
EP01999298A 2000-12-06 2001-11-28 Hair dryer with device varying the air stream outlet cross-section Expired - Lifetime EP1339299B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR0015832A FR2817450B1 (en) 2000-12-06 2000-12-06 HAIR DRYER WITH DEVICE FOR VARIATION OF THE AIR FLOW OUTLET SECTION
FR0015832 2000-12-06
PCT/FR2001/003770 WO2002045543A1 (en) 2000-12-06 2001-11-28 Hair dryer with device varying the air stream outlet cross-section

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP1339299A1 EP1339299A1 (en) 2003-09-03
EP1339299B1 true EP1339299B1 (en) 2005-11-02

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Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP01999298A Expired - Lifetime EP1339299B1 (en) 2000-12-06 2001-11-28 Hair dryer with device varying the air stream outlet cross-section

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EP (1) EP1339299B1 (en)
CN (1) CN1197502C (en)
AT (1) ATE308257T1 (en)
AU (1) AU2002216149A1 (en)
BR (1) BR0115831B1 (en)
DE (1) DE60114657T2 (en)
ES (1) ES2249495T3 (en)
FR (1) FR2817450B1 (en)
RU (1) RU2262282C2 (en)
WO (1) WO2002045543A1 (en)

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JP4420059B2 (en) * 2007-04-24 2010-02-24 パナソニック電工株式会社 Hair dryer
EP2547229B1 (en) * 2010-03-15 2016-09-07 Sun Luen Electrical Manufacturing Company Limited Accessory for hair treatment device
GB201020847D0 (en) 2010-12-08 2011-01-19 Jemella Ltd A hair dryer
GB2487996B (en) 2011-08-19 2013-07-10 Jemella Ltd Hair dryer
GB201211253D0 (en) 2012-06-25 2012-08-08 Jemella Ltd Hair dryer
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GB2515809B (en) * 2013-07-05 2015-08-19 Dyson Technology Ltd A handheld appliance
TR201900850T4 (en) * 2014-12-16 2019-02-21 Soresina Claudio Hair dryer provided with an electric motor.
GB2534380A (en) * 2015-01-21 2016-07-27 Dyson Technology Ltd An attachment for a hand held appliance
GB2534378B (en) 2015-01-21 2018-07-25 Dyson Technology Ltd An attachment for a hand held appliance
GB2534379B (en) 2015-01-21 2018-05-09 Dyson Technology Ltd An attachment for a hand held appliance
GB2538561B (en) * 2015-05-22 2018-10-10 Dyson Technology Ltd A hand held appliance
FR3039377B1 (en) * 2015-07-28 2017-09-01 Seb Sa HAIR DRYER WITH COANDA EFFECT AIR OUTPUT DUCT
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CN105559311B (en) * 2016-02-01 2019-04-16 新联电器厂有限公司 A kind of hair dryer that can change airflow effects
KR102101643B1 (en) 2016-03-24 2020-04-17 다이슨 테크놀러지 리미티드 Attachments for portable instruments
CN110520009B (en) * 2017-04-27 2022-07-29 芭比丽丝法科私人有限公司 Hair dryer with speed control
CN109287822B (en) * 2018-09-11 2021-12-03 安徽奥德食品科技有限公司 Chocolate fragment cooking decoration device utilizing flow velocity change
CN110617240B (en) * 2019-09-18 2021-01-12 浙江工商大学 Can change hair-dryer of wind direction
KR102370985B1 (en) * 2020-05-18 2022-03-07 엘지전자 주식회사 Hair dryer
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Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
RU2262282C2 (en) 2005-10-20
EP1339299A1 (en) 2003-09-03
ATE308257T1 (en) 2005-11-15
FR2817450A1 (en) 2002-06-07
CN1197502C (en) 2005-04-20
WO2002045543A1 (en) 2002-06-13
BR0115831B1 (en) 2010-07-13
AU2002216149A1 (en) 2002-06-18
DE60114657D1 (en) 2005-12-08
BR0115831A (en) 2003-12-09
ES2249495T3 (en) 2006-04-01
CN1477937A (en) 2004-02-25
DE60114657T2 (en) 2006-07-20
FR2817450B1 (en) 2003-02-14

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