EP3986200A1

EP3986200A1 - Hair treatment apparatus with improved sealing and efficiency

Info

Publication number: EP3986200A1
Application number: EP20732945.9A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Mathias GANEM; Johan Sabattier
Original assignee: SEB SA
Current assignee: SEB SA
Priority date: 2019-06-21
Filing date: 2020-06-18
Publication date: 2022-04-27
Also published as: FR3097412B1; FR3097412A1; US20220240640A1; CN113993414A; WO2020254531A1

Abstract

Hair treatment apparatus, comprising: - first and second arms which are movable relative to one another and capable of assuming a spaced-apart configuration in which a lock of hair can be inserted between them and a closed configuration for treating the lock of hair, first and second contact surfaces which are supported by the first and second arms, respectively, and arranged opposite each other, at least one of the contact surfaces being heated, - at least the first arm comprising at least one first part for supporting the first contact surface, - a sealing element (50) comprising a central window (500) so as to extend at least partially around the first contact surface between the latter and the first support part, the apparatus being characterised in that the sealing element (50) comprises at least one opening (59) separate from the central window (500) and in that the first support piece and the first contact surface are in contact with each other through the at least one opening (59).

Description

DESCRIPTION

WATERPROOF AND HAIR TREATMENT DEVICE

IMPROVED EFFICIENCY

Technical area

The present invention relates to a hair treatment apparatus, and more particularly to a clip-type hair straightener.

Prior art

It is known practice to straighten hair with straightening tongs, such a device also being called a straightener. This clamp, generally equipped with two heating plates arranged opposite each other to pinch the hair, makes it possible to smooth the hair fibers at high temperature without pulling the hair too much, unlike brushings. However, to obtain a good smoothness, it is necessary to make several passes of the clamp, which considerably lengthens the processing time. In addition, repeated application of the straightening forceps can sometimes cause degradation of the hair fibers, due to the temperature to which the hair is exposed.

In order to limit the number of passes, it is known practice to use steam and / or a cosmetic product for the treatment of the hair, associated with a treatment with heating plates. Such a method can be implemented by a hair treatment apparatus.

In order to secure the operation of these straightener type devices, in particular in the case where they are used with steam and / or cosmetic products on the hair, it has been proposed to have a seal around the heating plates in order to prevent steam, cosmetic products or any other element from entering the interior of the device, for example in the international patent application filed by the applicant under number PCT / EP2018 / 086741.

This solution, although it gives complete satisfaction in terms of the safety of use of the device, may ultimately have certain drawbacks, in particular in terms of the performance and efficiency of straightening the hair. In fact, it turns out that the seal, which is inherently flexible, deforms when the plates pinch the lock of hair and therefore absorbs part of the pinching pressure. This may therefore result in a lack of efficiency of the hairstyling device, a result that may be disappointing or a need to multiply the passages to obtain a hairstyle result. optimal if the deformation of the seal is not compensated by a greater pressure from the user.

There is therefore a need to improve existing devices.

Disclosure of the invention

The object of the present invention is to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks.

An objective of the invention is to provide an appliance for treating the hair which is particularly effective, in particular by making it possible to limit the number of passages through the hair.

Another objective of the invention is to provide a hair treatment device which is particularly safe, reliable and robust.

Another objective of the invention is to provide an appliance for treating the hair which is particularly ergonomic and comfortable to use.

Another object of the invention is to provide a hair treatment apparatus which is inexpensive and simple to manufacture.

These goals are achieved with the help of a hair treatment device, comprising:

first and second movable arms relative to each other, which can take a configuration spaced apart for the introduction of a lock of hair between them and a configuration close to the treatment of the lock of hair, the first and second surfaces of contact carried respectively by the first and second arms, arranged vis-à-vis, at least one of said contact surfaces being heated, at least the first arm comprising at least a first part supporting the first contact surface

a sealing element comprising a central window so as to extend at least partially around the first contact surface between the latter and the first support part, said sealing element comprising at least one opening distinct from the central window and said first support piece and said first contact surface being in contact with each other through said at least one opening.

It will be noted that the term “hair” can encompass the corresponding human or animal keratin fibers as well as synthetic fibers called “extensions” which are sometimes attached to the natural hair of a person by various means, in particular by gluing, for example in order to modify the appearance of a person's natural hair.

By "central window" is meant a main opening disposed substantially in the center of the sealing element. This central window accommodates the first support part, the first contact surface and therefore allows the sealing element to go at least partially, and advantageously completely, around these elements.

Preferably, the sealing element comprises a plurality of openings. Advantageously, said plurality of openings is regularly distributed around the central window.

Thanks to the invention, it is thus possible to benefit from an apparatus in which the pressure force given by the user to the first and second arms is fully transmitted to the contact surfaces. Indeed, the direct contact between the first part and the first contact surface through said at least one opening, and preferably, through the plurality of openings, guarantees full transmission of mechanical forces. There is therefore no loss of effort, and the user does not have to force the device to achieve a good styling result. In addition, if the openings are regularly distributed around the central window, this guarantees a homogeneous distribution of forces. However, the presence of the sealing element, although it has one or more openings, guarantees the sealing of the device vis-à-vis external elements and therefore improves the safety of use of the latter, its reliability and robustness.

Advantageously, said sealing element has between 10 and 30 openings, preferably between 18 and 24, for example 20 or 22 openings.

Preferably, said plurality of openings is regularly distributed around the first contact surface, advantageously symmetrically.

Preferably, the device comprises at least one steam outlet carried by one of the arms at a distance from the contact surface situated on the same arm, in order to expose the hair engaged between the arms to steam. More precisely, the steam outlet is located at a distance from the contact surface because this makes it possible to clearly distinguish the treatment of the hair by steam and then by the mechanical effect with the contact surface of the device. This brings a better result to the hairstyle, in particular by allowing the steam to open the scales of the hair before they pass over the heated contact surface. The expression at a distance implies in particular that the steam outlet is distinct from the contact surface, that it is not located inside the contact surface.

Thanks to the invention, we therefore benefit both from a device limiting the quantity of steam that can penetrate into an interior space of the arms, by the presence of the sealing element, while ensuring full transmission of the forces. mechanical between the different parts. In other words, the casing (that is to say the shell of each arm) which forms the wall of the arms is sealed against the vapor projected by the device but the transmission of mechanical forces. between the user-operated housing and the smoothing plate (i.e. the first contact surface) is also guaranteed.

Preferably, at least the first contact surface, and preferably each of the contact surfaces, is pivotally mounted on the corresponding arm, for example by means of a ball joint or the like.

Preferably, the device comprises at least one second part distinct from the first part and separate from the latter, the sealing element, elastically deformable, comprising a proximal portion extending at least partially around the first contact surface. between the latter and the first support piece and a distal portion extending in contact with the second piece, the proximal and distal portions being connected by an intermediate portion extending between the first and second pieces and configured to form a screen to the steam.

The presence of the intermediate portion on the sealing element allows the latter to deform to accompany the pivoting of the contact surface, so that the movement of the latter is not unduly hampered by the presence of the sealing element. The contact surface can then rotate to best match the thickness of the lock of hair in contact with it, and the efficiency of the heat treatment is improved, while maintaining a perfect seal thanks to the presence of the three zones of the joint (proximal portion, distal portion, and intermediate portion which can deform).

The developed length of the intermediate portion, measured in cross section, may be greater than 6 mm, in particular 7.5 mm, in particular be between 7 mm and 13 mm, in particular between 7.5 mm and 12 mm.

The intermediate portion connects the proximal and distal portions so that one can have, if this is desired, a height and / or width difference, that is to say along a horizontal and / or vertical plane, between the proximal portion and the distal portion, superior preferably 2mm and advantageously substantially equal to 3.5mm. The proximal portion advantageously extends over the entire periphery of the first contact surface. A seal is therefore created around the entire periphery of this contact surface, thus preventing water or any other element from entering the interior of the device. In addition, this makes it possible to strengthen the mechanical fixing of the sealing element.

Said intermediate portion advantageously has at least one bend in cross section. In this case, the intermediate portion is for example curved concave towards the opposite arm, preferably the arm carrying said at least one steam outlet, in particular with a U-shaped bottom in cross section. The intermediate portion may have several bends, like a bellows, such as an accordion bellows.

The width of the intermediate portion of the seal, measured in a plane perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the device, is preferably greater than or equal to 1 mm.

The presence and the shape of the sealing element, with the proximal, intermediate and distal portions allow to create an effective barrier against the vapor so that it does not penetrate inside the device, along the first contact surface. In addition, the intermediate portion has a flexibility which allows it to accept a greater tolerance of positioning of the first and second parts relative to each other. This variation in positioning between the first and second parts may in fact be unintentional resulting, for example, from variations in manufacturing, or on the contrary and advantageously, be voluntary as a result of controlled mobility of the first contact surface. According to this advantageous embodiment, the first part is preferably in a ball joint connection with the housing of the device so that it allows different degrees of freedom to be given to the smoothing contact surface so that the latter can best adapt to the thickness and positioning of the lock of hair. Such an arrangement is known to those skilled in the art or for example from document FR3011449 so that it is not detailed here.

Advantageously, said at least one opening is made in the proximal portion. This makes it possible to simplify the construction of the apparatus and in particular of the sealing element. In addition, this makes it possible to bring the opening (s) of the first contact surface and therefore the point (s) of contact between the latter and the first part closer together, which helps to optimize the distribution of forces on the first contact surface. Preferably, said sealing element is clamped between the first contact surface and a rib of the first part, in particular having a generally H-shaped cross section, with a groove engaged in a return of the first contact surface and a groove opposite engaged in said rib of the first part. In particular, it is the proximal portion which can be pinched according to the previous assembly. This makes it possible to hold in place, in a sealed manner, the proximal portion of the sealing element around the contact surface, and therefore more generally, to ensure that the sealing element is properly held in position around the contact surface. of the contact surface.

Advantageously, said at least one opening is made between the grooves so as to make said grooves communicate with each other. This allows a simple construction which guarantees the good transmission of mechanical forces.

Preferably, the distal portion of the sealing element can be clamped between the second part and a third internal part of the first arm. This keeps in place, in a sealed manner, away from the first contact surface, the sealing element. In this case, the second part may have a groove in which the distal portion is received at least partially, the third part having a rib applying to the distal portion in line with said groove.

Preferably, the sealing element has a substantially rectangular shape with two sides forming the length of the rectangle and two sides forming the width of the rectangle, said plurality of openings being disposed only on the two sides forming the length of said rectangle. This limits the number of openings to be made in the sealing element and therefore the manufacturing cost of the latter, but also makes it easier to mount the sealing element on the other parts. In fact, the absence of an opening on both sides forming the width of the rectangle makes it easy to adjust the position of the sealing element during its assembly and possibly to slightly deform the latter if necessary. Said plurality of openings is then advantageously distributed symmetrically on the two sides forming the length of the rectangle, with respect to an axis parallel to said sides and passing through the center of the first contact surface. For example, the sealing element may have 10 or 11 openings on each of the sides forming the length of the rectangle.

Preferably, said first part comprises on at least part of its periphery at least one slot in contact with the first contact surface through said at least one opening. Of course, in the preferential case where the sealing element comprises a plurality of openings, the first part then comprises on at least part of its periphery a plurality of slots in contact with the first contact surface through said plurality of openings. These slots then make it possible quite remarkably to guarantee several points of contact between the first part and the first contact surface, which makes it possible to guarantee and optimize the transmission of mechanical forces, while guaranteeing the seal around the first contact surface. Furthermore, the maintenance of the sealing element around the first contact surface is optimized.

Advantageously, said first part comprises between 10 and 30 slots, preferably between 18 and 24, for example 20 or 22 slots. In other words, the plurality of slots is the same as the plurality of openings: that is, the number of slots in the first part exactly matches the number of openings in the sealing member.

Advantageously, said plurality of crenellations is regularly distributed around the first part, advantageously symmetrically.

Advantageously, the first part comprises a plurality of crenellations in contact with the first contact surface through said plurality of openings on at least part of the periphery of the contact surface. This allows the mechanical closing forces of the device to pass through the periphery of the contact surface, which guarantees a homogeneous distribution of the latter and therefore a good distribution of the pressure on the hair while freeing up space. 'inside the contact surface, for example to accommodate other elements therein, as will be detailed later.

Advantageously, said first contact surface has an outline of generally rectangular shape with two sides forming the length of the rectangle and two sides forming the width of the rectangle, said plurality of crenellations being in contact with the first contact surface only on the two sides forming the length of said rectangle. This facilitates the assembly of the sealing element, as explained above.

In this case, the intermediate portion and the distal portion may extend around three of the four sides of the first contact surface only. This makes it possible to limit the bulk associated with the sealing element and therefore the width of the device while forming a vapor barrier. In this case, the intermediate portion and the distal portion are advantageously absent on the side of the first contact surface furthest from said at least one steam outlet. In other words, the sealing element then only comprises a bellows on three of these four sides, thus offering a remarkable compromise between sealing, flexibility and bulk.

In the above preferred case where the first part has one or more slots, the first part further comprises a support rib in contact with the first contact surface. This makes it possible to create a complementary contact zone between the first part and the first contact surface so as to be able to transmit more mechanical forces. Alternatively, said said at least one slot or the plurality of slots is the only contact with the first contact surface which then means that the first part is devoid of the previous support rib. This alternative construction then has the advantage of limiting the risk of hyperstatism of the assembly while freeing up space inside the first contact surface, for example to accommodate other elements.

The intermediate portion may have a height which varies along at least one side of the first contact surface, and better still along either side of the first contact surface. In this case, the height of the intermediate portion is preferably minimum substantially at mid-length of at least one side of the first contact surface and increases towards the ends of said side to be maximum at the angles. This difference in height is advantageously designed to allow movements of the contact surface in the event of pivoting thereof, movements whose amplitude increases with distance from the center of the rotation. The developed length of the intermediate portion, measured in cross section, is thus maximum at the angles, being at this location for example between 10 and 13 mm approximately, being preferably equal to 11, 7 mm. The developed length of the intermediate portion, measured in cross section, is minimum in the middle of the sides, being at this location for example between 6 mm and 10 mm approximately, being preferably equal to 7.9 mm.

The sealing element has, in one embodiment, a shape which is not symmetrical with respect to a median plane passing through the first contact surface parallel to a longitudinal axis of the apparatus and perpendicular to a heating surface of the first surface of the device. contact facing the second contact surface. This absence of symmetry is linked to the absence of an intermediate portion and of a distal portion on one of the sides of the first contact surface and makes it possible to reduce, as explained above, the width of the device, without however harming the sealing. The sealing element is preferably present on a single arm, said at least one vapor outlet then being carried by the other arm. Advantageously, the concave curved portion of the sealing element is slightly offset from the steam outlet, for example by being offset by 7 mm.

The apparatus may include a cartridge containing a cosmetic composition. In this case, the second part can serve as a support for said cartridge, in particular have a slide in which the cartridge is engaged.

Still in this case, the cartridge may comprise a porous material impregnated with said composition, in particular a felt, and the second part may comprise a rib applying against said porous material, on the side opposite to the sealing element, the rib preferably partially penetrating into said porous material. Thus, the second part with its rib forms a seal with the porous material vis-à-vis the vapor emitted by said at least one vapor outlet, which moreover does not generate any additional cost.

As a variant, the apparatus may not include a cartridge for a cosmetic composition, or a cosmetic composition applicator.

The second part advantageously faces said at least one steam outlet.

The device may also include at least one comb comprising at least one row of teeth, the comb preferably being carried by the second arm.

The apparatus advantageously comprises a confined area around said at least one steam outlet. By “confined zone” is meant at least one room or set of rooms which allows at least partial confinement of the vapor generated by said at least one vapor outlet. This confined zone can be delimited by at least one of the following elements: a cartridge of cosmetic composition to be applied to the lock of hair, a comb, a confinement structure arranged substantially opposite said at least one vapor outlet, a such a confinement structure comprising for example at least one groove facing said at least one steam outlet and optionally, when the apparatus comprises a comb, a cowling of said comb, the second part, one side of the first and of the second contact surface and any other element of the apparatus partially creating a confinement around said at least one vapor outlet.

The presence of this confined zone makes the presence of the sealing element all the more useful. The at least partial confinement makes it possible to locally accumulate more steam in the volume between said at least one steam outlet and the confinement structure, which can lead to a reduction in the steam flow rate necessary for the treatment of the hair. It is possible to reduce the quantity of steam necessary for the treatment, thus prolonging the autonomy of the appliance and reducing the quantity of residual moisture in the hair when leaving the appliance. In addition, the confined zone can contribute to a better distribution of the steam longitudinally, between the steam outlets. The lock of hair can thus be treated more evenly in the transverse direction. Furthermore, the relative partitioning created by the confined zone makes it possible to apply most of the steam only locally, during the passage of the lock of hair in the zone situated at the level of said at least one steam outlet.

The apparatus according to the invention can be self-contained, with an integrated water tank, or include a handpiece which is formed by the arms and a base station to which the handpiece is connected, which comprises a tank containing the water intended for the production of steam.

The cumulative steam flow for the or all the steam outlets is preferably between 0.5 and 1.1 g / min, preferably being less than or equal to 3.5 g / min, better still less than or equal to 1 g / min, for example between 0.7 g / min and 0.9 g / min.

Said at least one steam outlet advantageously comprises at least one steam ejection channel and at least one steam ejection nozzle. This channel can be oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the corresponding arm. The nozzle can have the same orientation; thus, the steam is emitted in a direction perpendicular to the contact surfaces, that is to say in a direction perpendicular to the direction of travel of the lock of hair in the device. Preferably, the nozzle or nozzles are of conical shape with a circular section, the section of the nozzles widening towards the outlet of the nozzles. The or each vapor ejection nozzle is preferably mounted at one end of the or each vapor ejection channel. The nozzles can be identical to each other. The channels can be identical to each other.

The steam outlet (s) are preferably supplied with steam by a vaporization chamber which is itself supplied with water by a pump. The vapor is preferably water vapor, in particular without additives.

The apparatus may include a device for heating the first contact surface consisting of a thermistor with a positive temperature coefficient, called PTC, and a device for measuring the temperature of the heating device consisting of a thermistor with a negative temperature coefficient, called CTN.

When the device comprises a thermistor with a positive temperature coefficient and a thermistor with a negative coefficient, these can advantageously be placed behind the first contact surface, and the device can include two plugs, in particular made of silicone, arranged at the longitudinal ends. of the housing that receives them. This protects the PTC and CTN thermistors from any possible presence of condensate which could shorten leak lines and generate a risk for the user.

Each plug is advantageously perforated with two holes in order to pass the wires of the NTC thermistor in front of the first contact surface and the wires of the PTC thermistor behind the first contact surface.

When steam is emitted in a confined area, it cannot escape vertically, nor laterally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the device. Thus, steam can escape longitudinally, from the front of the device or from the rear, on the side of a gripping area of the device. The grip area is a cooler area. It is undesirable for the steam to escape towards the grip zone, which is taken in the hand by the user during the operation of the device, because of the associated risk of discomfort or even burns. The device can thus include a seal positioned behind said at least one steam outlet, in particular behind the last nozzle, on the side of the gripping zone of the device. This seal is fixed for example on the second arm, and is configured to come into contact with the first arm in a position close to the arms. The seal is preferably disposed between the end of said at least one steam outlet and a pivot connection allowing the arms to form a clamp. It is intended to extend, in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the apparatus, behind the contact surfaces and behind said at least one steam outlet, so as to produce a rear partition forcing the steam to s' escape through the front of the device.

The aforementioned third part can advantageously have an elongated wall in the direction of the gripping zone of the device, towards the rear of the latter. The third part is in at least indirect contact with the first contact surface. Thus, as soon as the device is switched on, the third part is heated and can, by its elongated wall towards the gripping area, accelerate the heating of the shell. of the first arm, so as to limit the risk of vapor condensation on the internal and external surfaces of this shell.

The vaporization chamber is advantageously supported by a support element in the second arm. The vaporization chamber support member may have an elongated wall towards the gripping area of the apparatus. This helps bring calories to the inner and outer surfaces of the second arm shell in order to limit condensation on these surfaces.

Brief description of the drawings

The invention can be better understood from reading the detailed description which follows, examples of non-limiting implementation thereof, and examining the figures including:

[Fig 1] Figure 1 shows schematically, in side perspective, an example of a hair treatment apparatus according to the invention.

[Fig 2] Figure 2 shows schematically, in perspective viewed from the other side, the apparatus of Figure 1, the apparatus having been turned over.

[Fig 3] Figure 3 shows schematically, in front perspective, the apparatus of Figure 1.

[Fig 4] Figure 4 is a schematic and partial side view of an example of an apparatus according to the invention, the apparatus being in a spaced (or open) configuration.

[Fig 5] Figure 5 is a schematic view, in cross section along the axis A-A, of the apparatus of Figure 2.

[Fig 6] Figure 6 is a schematic view, in cross section along the axis A-A, of another example of apparatus according to the invention.

[Fig 7] Figure 7 is a schematic and partial view, in cross section along axis A-A and in perspective, of a detail of the apparatus of Figure 6.

[Fig 8] Figure 8 is a schematic and partial view, in cross section along the C-C axis and in perspective, of a detail of the apparatus of Figure 6.

[Fig 9] Figure 9 is a schematic and partial view, in longitudinal section and in perspective, of another detail of the apparatus of Figure 6.

[Fig 10] FIG. 10 is a top view of a sealing element fitted to the apparatus of FIG. 1. [Fig 1 1] Figure 1 1 is a cross-sectional view along the axis CC and in perspective, of the sealing element of Figure 10.

[Fig 12] Figure 12 is a perspective view of a sub-assembly of the apparatus of Figure 1 in which the sealing member of Figure 10 is masked;

Description of embodiments

In the remainder of the description, identical elements or identical functions bear the same reference sign. Their detailed description is not repeated with regard to each of the figures, only the main differences between the embodiments being mentioned.

FIG. 1 shows an appliance 1 for treating the hair, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment according to the invention.

In the example illustrated, the device 1 is autonomous, with an integrated water tank 2. Only part of the power supply cord 3 is visible in Figures 1 and 2.

The device 1 comprises a first arm 4 and a second arm 5 extending along a longitudinal axis Y of the device 1, movable relative to each other, which can take a configuration spaced apart for the introduction of a lock of hair between them and a close treatment configuration of the lock of hair. Figures 1, 2 and 3 in particular illustrate the latter configuration. Figure 4 shows schematically, within a device 1, the spaced configuration of the first and second arms 4 and 5 for introducing a lock of hair between them.

The first and second arms 4 and 5 are articulated together by means of a pivot link 6 so as to form a clamp. The housing of each of the first and second arms 4 and 5 comprises a shell, respectively referenced 17 and 18, which houses various constituent elements. The first and second arms 4 and 5 are movable in the close configuration along the lock of hair to be treated and comprise respective proximal parts 4a and 5a which can be simultaneously grasped with one hand to manipulate the apparatus 1. Thus, during the hairstyling operation, and in particular during the smoothing operation, the user will exert pressure with his hand on each of said proximal parts 4a and 5a so as to close the first and second arms 4 and 5.

The first and second arms 4 and 5 also comprise respective distal parts 4b and 5b equipped with first and second corresponding facing plates 10 and 11 which make it possible to pinch the hair between them. During of the hairdressing operation, and particularly of the hair straightening operation, it is necessary for a certain force to pinch the hair to be present. This pinching force is thus directly linked to the pressure exerted by the user on the proximal parts 4a and 5a to close the first and second arms 4 and 5.

The first and second plates 10 and 11 define respective first and second contact surfaces 12 and 13, which are heated. The term “contact” is understood to mean contact with the lock of hair or any other hair fiber as mentioned previously.

In the example illustrated, the first and second contact surfaces 12 and 13 are substantially planar.

The first plate 10 is heated by at least one resistive heating element 15, in this case a PTC thermistor (positive temperature coefficient), received in a housing 22 of the first arm 4, not far from the first contact surface 12. As a variant, the first and second plates 10 and 11 are each heated by its own heating device, in which case another resistive heating element is mounted in a housing 23, for example.

It should be noted that variant shapes are possible for the first and second contact surfaces 12 and 13. For example, curved surfaces can be used, as on certain hairstyling devices allowing the hair to be curled, or even wavy, such as those used for embossing the hair, or even equipped with a plurality of protuberances, such as teeth for example. Preferably, the contact surfaces 12 and 13 are then complementary so as to grip the lock of hair properly.

The apparatus 1 also comprises at least one steam outlet 20, in this case several outlets, carried by the second arm 5, in this example at a distance from the second plate 11, to expose the hair engaged between the first plates to steam. and second arms 4 and 5 when they are in this steam application zone. More precisely, in this example, the hair is thus exposed first to the steam thanks to the remote steam outlet 20, and then to the mechanical pressure of the contact surfaces 12 and 13.

The apparatus 1 comprises at least one comb 30 comprising at least one row of teeth 31, the comb 30 being in this example carried by the second arm 5. The comb 30 may include rigid teeth and / or flexible bristles such as for example tufts of silk bristles or a combination of stiff teeth and soft bristles. In this example, the first arm 4 comprises at least a first part 40 for supporting the first plate 10 and at least one second part 41 distinct from the first and separate from the latter.

The apparatus 1 further comprises, according to the invention, a sealing element 50, elastically deformable, which extends at least partially around the first plate 10 (or first contact surface 12) between the latter and the first support piece 40. More specifically, as can be seen in Figure 10 for example, the sealing element has a central window 500, i.e. a main opening, which allows the sealing element 50 to be disposed around the first plate 10. Preferably, the sealing element 50 goes all the way around the first plate 10 as can be seen in the other figures so as to prevent any external element (steam, water, cosmetics, solid body, etc.) to penetrate inside the first arm 4.

The sealing element has a plurality of openings 59 as can be seen in Figures 10 and 11 in particular. These openings 59 are regularly distributed around the central window 500. Said first support part 40 and said first contact surface 12 are then in contact with each other through said plurality of openings 59, which allows to transmit all of the pinching force to the hair. As can be seen, the sealing element 50 comprises 20 openings 59 distributed symmetrically and facing each other in pairs with respect to the first plate 10. Each opening 59 has the shape of a rectangle having for example a length of about 6 mm and a width of about 1 mm.

One could however imagine other embodiments for these openings 59 without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, one could imagine a continuous groove so that the plurality of openings 59 would then be grouped together in a single large longitudinal groove. The sealing element 50 could thus have a single opening 59, or possibly two openings 59 arranged vis-à-vis one another.

More precisely, the path of the mechanical force is explained below. Note that, for the sake of brevity, only the flow of the force in the first arm 4 is described; it will easily be understood that the flow of the force in the second arm 5 follows a similar path.

The force is generated by the hand of the user and is transmitted to the proximal part 4a of the first arm 4. The latter then transmits it to the distal part 4b. The latter transmits the force to the first support part 40, for example via a third part 42 as can be seen in Figures 5 and 6. The first part 40 can then directly transmit the force to the first plate 10 through the sealing element, thanks to said plurality of openings 59, as can be seen in FIG. 8 and FIG. 10. Such a construction guarantees full transmission of the mechanical force, unlike known constructions in the prior art which could generate losses of force because of the elasticity of the sealing element 50.

More precisely, said first part 40 comprises on at least part of its periphery a plurality of crenellations 401 as can be seen in FIGS. 8 and 12. By “crenellations” is meant a succession of protuberances projecting from the first part. 40 so as to form a rugged, cut, non-linear contour as can be seen in FIG. 12, in the manner of the battlements terminating the walls of fortresses. The crenellations have a shape complementary to those of the openings 59. In this case, the crenellations 401 have a substantially rectangular shape with a height (protrusion distance from the first part 40) of the order of 1 mm, over a length of the order of 6 mm for a width of the order of 1 mm. These dimensions have been specially designed to optimize the transmission of forces while maintaining minimal bulk.

These slots 401 are thus in contact with the first contact surface 12 through the plurality of openings 59 as shown in Figure 8. In other words, it is through these slots 401 that the force is transmitted. pinching from the first part 40 to the first plate 10 (first contact surface 12), and therefore to the lock of hair. The first plate has the same number of slots 401 as the number of openings 59, namely 20 in the example illustrated. This number was determined to allow a good distribution of the forces over the entire surface of the first plate 10 while maintaining acceptable manufacturing costs.

In the case mentioned above where the sealing element 50 would have a single opening, it will easily be understood that the first part 40 then only has a single slot 401.

As can be seen in Figure 8, said plurality of crenellations 401 is in contact with the first plate 10 (or first contact surface 12) on at least part of the periphery of the first plate 10. Said first plate 10 has an outline of generally rectangular shape with two sides forming the length of the rectangle and two sides forming the width of the rectangle, said plurality of slots 401 being in contact with the first plate 10 only on the two sides forming the length of said rectangle as can be seen in FIG. 12. This guarantees both the good transmission of the mechanical force as explained previously while facilitating the assembly of the device and minimizing the costs of different parts.

As can be seen in FIG. 7 or 8, the first part 40 further comprises a support rib 402, or more precisely two support ribs 402, in contact with the first plate (or first contact surface 12) . These support ribs 402 extend over the entire length of the first plate, in directions parallel to the Y axis. Such a construction makes it possible to relieve the crenellations 401 of a part of the mechanical force by also making transit this force by the support ribs 402.

However, one could imagine, without departing from the scope of the invention, an alternative construction not shown in the figures but in which the support rib or ribs 402 would be absent. In this alternative construction, not shown, the plurality of slots 401 would then be the only contact with the first plate 10 (or first contact surface 12).

More precisely, the sealing element 50 comprises a proximal portion 51 extending at least partially around the first plate 10 between the latter and the first part 40 and a distal portion 52 extending in contact with the second part 41 , the proximal 51 and distal 52 portions being connected by an intermediate portion 53 extending between the first and second parts 40 and 41.

The width 11 of the intermediate portion 53, measured in a plane transverse to the longitudinal axis Y of the device 1, may be greater than 1 mm, in particular being less than 4 mm.

The developed length of the intermediate portion 53 measured in a transverse plane may be greater than 5 mm, in particular 7 mm.

The intermediate portion 53 connects the proximal 51 and distal 52 portions so that one can have a difference in level Ah, between a low point P of the proximal portion 51 and a low point Q of the distal portion 52, for example visible in FIG. 5, preferably greater than 2 mm, being for example less than 6 mm while being for example substantially equal to 3.6 mm.

The total height of the sealing element 50, which corresponds to the distance measured between the point P and the top of the concave part of the intermediate portion 53 is preferably between 5 and 15 mm, knowing that this height changes according to the cross section of the sealing element 50. In particular, this height is minimum in the middle of the length while it is maximum in the corners. Advantageously, the minimum height is substantially equal to 8 mm and the maximum height is substantially equal to 10 mm.

The proximal portion 51 extends all the way around the first plate 10.

The plurality of openings 59 are formed in the proximal portion 51 as can be seen in Figure 10. The sealing member 50 has a substantially rectangular shape with two sides forming the length of the rectangle and two sides forming the width of the rectangle. rectangle, said plurality of apertures 59 is then disposed only on the two sides forming the length of said rectangle.

As can be seen in Figure 5, the proximal portion 51 of the sealing member 50 is clamped between the first plate 10 and a rib 55 of the first part 40. In this example, the proximal portion 51 has a section transverse generally H-shaped. The proximal portion 51 has a groove 56 engaged in a return 57 of the first plate 10 and an opposing groove 58 engaged in the rib 55 of the first part 40.

Said plurality of openings 59 is then produced between said grooves 56, 58 so as to make said grooves 56, 58 communicate with each other as shown in FIG. 1 1. This particular construction makes it possible remarkably to guarantee excellent sealing since the shape of H of the proximal portion provides the seal between the first part 40 and the first plate 10 despite the presence of openings 59 between the grooves 56 and 58.

The distal portion 52 is, for its part, clamped between the second part 41 and a third internal part 42 of the first arm 4, formed in this example by an internal part of the shell 17.

The intermediate portion 53 has at least one bend in cross section. In the example illustrated, the intermediate portion 53 is curved concave towards the second opposite arm 5, with a U-shaped bottom in cross section.

The first plate 10 has a generally rectangular outline with four sides. Intermediate portion 53 and distal portion 52 extend around three of the four sides of first plate 10 only. The intermediate portion 53 and the distal portion 52 are absent from the side 16 of the first plate 10 furthest from said at least one vapor outlet 20. Thus, in FIG. 5, the sealing element can be seen. 50 on the side of the first plate 10 which is opposite to the steam outlet 20 which comprises only the proximal portion 51. The other three sides of the first plate 10 are surrounded by the assembly of the proximal portion 51, of the distal portion 52 and of the intermediate portion 53 of the sealing element 50. This makes it possible to reduce the width of the apparatus 1 without appreciably impairing the sealing.

In particular because of this, the sealing element 50 has a non-symmetrical shape, as can be seen in particular in FIG. 10, with respect to a median plane passing through the first plate 10 parallel to the longitudinal axis Y of the device 1 and perpendicular to a first contact surface 12 of the first plate 10 facing the second plate 1 January.

Still in this example, the sealing element 50 is present on a single arm, namely the first arm 4, said at least one steam outlet 20 being carried by the other arm, namely the second arm 5. Preferably the sealing element 50 and in particular the intermediate portion 53 is located in the vapor ejection zone, optionally slightly offset from said at least one vapor outlet 20 so as to form a vapor screen. By "slightly offset" is meant an offset of between 2 and 15 mm and advantageously substantially equal to 7 mm relative to the axis of steam ejection. Preferably, the offset is towards the interior of the device.

In this example, the device 1 does not include a reservoir for a cosmetic composition, nor a cosmetic composition applicator.

The second part 41 faces said at least one steam outlet 20.

In the example illustrated in FIG. 5, the apparatus 1 comprises a confined zone 90 around said at least one vapor outlet 20. The confined zone 90 is delimited in this example by a confinement structure 21 formed by the second part. 41 which allows at least partial containment of the vapor emitted by the device. This confinement structure 21 comprises in this example a groove 25 facing the steam outlets 20. The confined zone 90 is also delimited by the comb 30. The confinement structure 21 also comprises a cowling 91 of said comb 30.

The first plate 10 is, in the example illustrated in FIG. 5 or 6, pivotally mounted on the corresponding first arm 4 via the engagement of a head 110 in the form of a portion of a sphere, formed in the first part 40, in a housing defined by a cylindrical wall 11 1 formed with the shell 17 of the first arm 4. The support of the spherical surface of the head 110 on the circular edge of the wall 11 creates a ball joint which allows the first plate 10 to pivot when the thickness of the lock of hair which is pinched between the plates does not is not homogeneous or is not placed at the center of the first plate 10, and thus to have a greater contact surface with the wick. We can see in Figure 5 a helical spring 62 which bears at one end in the bottom of the housing defined by the cylindrical wall 1 1 1 and at the other end against the head 1 10. The deformability of the element of sealing 50 thanks to the intermediate portion 53 allows it to accompany this pivoting of the first plate 10 while playing a role of barrier against the vapor. Indeed, the bellows shape of said intermediate portion 53 gives the sealing element remarkable flexibility, while its proximal 51 and distal 53 portions are fixed, respectively with the first plate 10 and the second part 41.

The lower part of the second arm 5 houses the vaporization chamber which allows the creation of the vapor which is then projected through the vapor outlets 20 passing through channels and nozzles.

Such a vaporization chamber may include a heating device consisting of a thermistor with a positive temperature coefficient, called PTC, and a device for measuring the temperature of the heating device consisting of a thermistor with a negative temperature coefficient, called CTN. .

The total steam flow delivered by all the steam outlets can be between 0.5 g / min and 0.8 g / min or between 2 and 2.5 g / min.

The vaporization chamber is itself supplied by means of an electric pump and in particular a peristaltic pump, itself connected to the water tank 2, these elements preferably being in the second arm 5.

The device 1 may further include an electronic card, not shown, configured to manage the power supply to the resistive heating elements in order to control the operating temperature. This electronic card can be arranged inside one of the two arms 4 or 5, for example in the proximal part 5a of the second arm 5, and have a user interface.

The apparatus 1 may further comprise a magnetic sensor, not shown, of the ILS flexible reed switch type, which makes it possible to detect the close configuration of the arms 4 and 5, in which the surfaces 12 and 13 are substantially against each other. 'another to pinch the lock of hair to be treated. In another variant, the reed switch flexible could be replaced by a magneto-resistive sensor MRS, or by any other means of detection.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6, the second part 41 is different. In this example, as visible in particular in FIG. 6, the second part 41 has a groove 60 in which the distal portion 52 is received at least partially, the third part 42 having a rib 61 applying to the distal portion 52 to the 'plumb of said groove 60.

As can be seen in Figures 7 and 8 in particular, the intermediate portion 53 has a height h which varies along at least one side of the first plate 10, and along each side of the first plate 10 in which the intermediate portion 53 is present. The height h of the intermediate portion 53 is minimum substantially at mid-length of at least one side of the first plate 10 and increases towards the ends of said side.

The difference in height h of the intermediate portion 53, maximum at the corners of the sides of the first plate 10 and minimum at the centers of the sides of the first plate 10 is in particular chosen so as to allow the pivoting of the first plate 10. Indeed, the further one moves away from the head 110, the more the movements of the first plate 10 during a pivoting of a given angle are of high amplitude. These high amplitude movements are then remarkably facilitated by the maximum difference in height h at the corners, since the length of the bellows is then maximized.

In the example of Figure 6, the water tank is not integrated into the device 1 but in a separate station.

As illustrated in Figure 6, the device 1 can include a cartridge 80 containing a cosmetic composition C to be applied to the hair, the second part 41 serving as a support for said cartridge 80. The second part 41 can then have a slide

81 in which the cartridge 80 is engaged. The cartridge 80 comprises a porous material 82 impregnated with said composition C. In the example illustrated, the porous material

82 is a felt. The second part 41 has a rib 85 pressing against said porous material 82, on the side opposite to the sealing element 50. In this example, the rib 85 partially penetrates the porous material 82, as visible.

The cartridge 80 is also held in place, in this example by being engaged in a slide 86 of the device 1. In this example, the confined zone 90 is delimited by the cartridge 80, the comb 30 and one side of the first and second plates 10 and 11.

The apparatus 1 comprises a device for heating the first plate 10 consisting of a thermistor with a positive temperature coefficient PTC 15 and a device for measuring the temperature of the heating device consisting of a thermistor with a negative coefficient CTN 101. PTC thermistors 15 and CTN 101 are, as can be seen in FIG. 9, arranged behind the first plate 10. The apparatus 1 comprises two plugs 102, for example made of silicone, arranged at their longitudinal ends. This protects the thermistors 15 and 101 from any possible presence of condensate which could shorten the leak lines and generate a risk for the user.

Each plug 102 is advantageously perforated with two holes, not visible in the figure for the sake of clarity of the drawing, in order to allow the wires of the thermistor 101 to pass in front of the first plate 10 and the wires of the thermistor 15 to the back of the first plate 10.

Claims

1. Apparatus (1) for treating the hair, comprising:

first and second arms (4, 5) movable relative to each other, which can take a configuration spaced apart for the introduction of a lock of hair between them and a close configuration for processing the lock of hair, first and second contact surfaces (12, 13) carried respectively by the first and second arms (4, 5), arranged opposite each other, at least one of said contact surfaces (12, 13) being heated,

at least the first arm (4) comprising at least a first part (40) for supporting the first contact surface (12),

a sealing element (50) comprising a central window (500) so as to extend at least partially around the first contact surface (12) between the latter and the first support part (40), said element d 'seal (50) comprising at least one opening (59) distinct from the central window (500) and said first support piece (40) and said first contact surface (12) being in contact with each other at the through said at least one opening (59),

characterized in that the apparatus (1) comprises at least one steam outlet (20) carried by one of the arms (4, 5) at a distance from the contact surface (12, 13) located on the same arm, to steam the hair engaged between the arms (4, 5).

2. Apparatus (1) according to the preceding claim wherein the sealing element (50) has a plurality of openings (59).

3. Apparatus (1) according to the preceding claim wherein said plurality of openings (59) is regularly distributed around the central window (500).

4. Apparatus (1) according to any preceding claim, wherein the apparatus (1) comprises at least one second part (41) distinct from the first part (40) and separated therefrom, the element. seal (50), elastically deformable, comprising a proximal portion (51) extending at least partially around the first contact surface (12) between the latter and the first support part (40) and a distal portion ( 52) extending in contact with the second part (41), the proximal (51) and distal (52) portions being connected by an intermediate portion (53) extending between the first (40) and second (41) pieces and configured to form a vapor barrier.

5. Apparatus (1) according to the preceding claim wherein said intermediate portion (53) has at least one bend in cross section.

6. Apparatus (1) according to claim 4 or 5 wherein said at least one opening (59) is made in the proximal portion (51).

7. Apparatus (1) according to any preceding claim, wherein said sealing member (50) is clamped between the first contact surface (12) and a rib (55) of the first part (40), in particular having a generally H-shaped cross section, with a groove (56) engaged in a return (57) of the first contact surface (12) and an opposing groove (58) engaged in said rib (55) of the first piece (40).

8. Apparatus (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein said at least one opening (59) is formed between the grooves (56, 58) so as to make said grooves (56, 58) communicate with each other.

9. Apparatus (1) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the sealing member (50) has a substantially rectangular shape with two sides forming the length of the rectangle and two sides forming the width of the rectangle, said plurality of. openings (59) being disposed only on the two sides forming the length of said rectangle.

10. Apparatus (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said first part (40) comprises on at least part of its periphery at least one slot (401) in contact with the first contact surface (12). through said at least one opening (59).

1 1. Apparatus (1) according to the preceding claim and claim 2, wherein the first part comprises a plurality of slots (401) in contact with the first contact surface (12) through said plurality of openings (59 ) on at least part of the periphery of the contact surface (12).

12. Apparatus (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein said first contact surface (12) has an outline of generally rectangular shape with two sides forming the length of the rectangle and two sides forming the width of the rectangle, said plurality of crenellations ( 401) being in contact with the first contact surface (12) only on the two sides forming the length of said rectangle.

13. Apparatus (1) according to one of claims 10 to 12 wherein the first part (40) further comprises a support rib (402) in contact with the first contact surface (12).

14. Apparatus (1) according to one of claims 10 to 12 wherein said at least one slot (401) or said plurality of slots (401) is the only contact with the first contact surface (12).