FR3090288A1 - Steam hairdresser - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a steam hairstyling device (1) for shaping hair comprising: - a first jaw (2) and a second jaw (3), arranged facing one another and articulated between them , a first treatment surface (4) being carried by the first jaw (2) and a second treatment surface being carried by the second jaw (3), the first and second treatment surfaces being configured to pinch at least one wick of hair, - a liquid reservoir, the first and / or second jaw (2, 3) further comprising: - a vaporization system (7) of the liquid in vapor, comprising at least one vaporization chamber (71), having an internal surface and communicating via an injection pipe (74) with the liquid reservoir, the injection pipe (74) having a free end forming a point for injecting the liquid into the vaporization chamber (71), - a distribution system (7 ') of the vapor from the vaporization system (7), comprising at least one vapor distribution orifice (75) towards the at least one lock of hair, characterized in that the injection pipe (74) comprises a opening extending substantially along the injection pipe (74) from the free end forming the injection point, the opening having a shape allowing the liquid coming from the tank to flow into the vaporization chamber (71 ) in the event of scale build-up and deposit at the free end of the injection pipe (74). Reference figure for the abstract: Figure 5

Description

Description

Title of the invention: Steam hairdressing apparatus

Technical area

The present invention relates to the field of hair styling devices, and more specifically hair styling devices generating steam.

Prior art

Hairdressing devices generally consist of two jaws articulated together and facing each other, each having a treatment surface, at least one of which is heated, the other allowing to bring a lock of hair in contact with the heated surface. The articulated jaws generally comprise a zone for gripping the device at the end comprising the articulation, in order to be able to handle the device and in particular to be able to pivot the jaws towards a closed position, so as to pinch a lock of hair.

In general operation, shaping of the hair, for example straightening, is carried out by pinching a lock of hair at the level of the root, then sliding the styling device along the lock, from the hairline to the tip.

Different forms of treatment surfaces can be arranged on the jaws, depending on the desired hair shaping. Typically, treatment surfaces with substantially flat complementary shapes will be used for smoothing, curved for curling, or embossed for embossing.

It is also possible to spray steam on the hair to improve the shaping of the hair. The document WO2014064660 describes for example a styling apparatus comprising a liquid reservoir, and in which a jaw comprises a vaporization system, and a system for distributing vapor towards a lock of hair. A liquid, typically water or a cosmetic product for hair, is stored in the reservoir, and injected into the vaporization system comprising a chamber, through a pipe. Under the action of heating means, in contact with the vaporization chamber, the liquid passes into the vapor state and can reach the distribution system, comprising a plurality of slit-shaped orifices oriented so as to project the steam on a lock of hair pinched between the two treatment surfaces. However, a rapid increase in the temperature of the liquid, which may contain minerals, in the vaporization chamber can lead to a gradual deposit of scale or lime inside or at one end of the pipeline, until it becomes obstructed. This phenomenon results in a malfunction of the styling appliance and shortens the life of the styling appliance.

In addition, in order to improve the ergonomic and aesthetic properties of the styling devices, it is necessary to make the styling device more compact by notably reducing the volume of the vaporization system. However, reducing the volume of the vaporization chamber has the effect of reducing the life of the styling appliance, since scaling will take place more quickly, typically at a point of injection of the liquid at the end of the pipe in the vaporization chamber.

To reduce the risk of scaling of the devices, it is recommended to use demineralized water. Unfortunately, such a solution is restrictive for the users and in practice little applied, which implies that the devices remain subject to the risks of scaling and that it is necessary to find a technical solution more than a solution of use.

It has thus been proposed to add to the styling device a means of recovery and evacuation of the tartar accumulated within the vaporization chamber. Such a device is described for example in the document FR2987242, which proposes a collecting container comprising rock wool to absorb the scale and a scraper blade at the end of the container making it possible to scrape the surface of the vaporization chamber. However, such a device is complex and reduces the compactness of the styling appliance.

There is therefore always a need for a solution making it possible to increase the life of a styling appliance with respect to scaling, without making the structure of it more complex. Summary of the invention

An objective of the invention is to provide a solution to the problems identified, and in particular to improve the life of a styling appliance, in particular with respect to scaling, without reducing its compactness, and in particular by retaining a low height of the vaporization chamber.

According to a first aspect, there is proposed a steam styling device for shaping hair comprising:

a first jaw and a second jaw, arranged facing one another and articulated with each other, a first treatment surface being carried by the first jaw and a second treatment surface being carried by the second jaw, the first and second treatment surfaces being configured to pinch at least one lock of hair, a liquid reservoir, the first and / or the second jaw further comprising a vaporization system for the liquid in vapor, comprising at least one vaporization chamber communicating via the via an injection pipe with the liquid reservoir, the injection pipe having a free end forming a point for injecting the liquid into the vaporization chamber, a system for distributing the vapor from the vaporization system , comprising at least one orifice for distributing the steam towards the at least one lock of hair, characterized in that the vaporization chamber includes nd an internal surface covered at least in part by a hydrophobic layer positioned under the injection point.

The hair styling device proposed according to this first aspect may include the following characteristics, taken alone or in combination:

- the hydrophobic layer comprises polytetrafluoroethylene (PTLE);

the hydrophobic layer is positioned only under the injection point and on a surface of between 10 mm ² and 2000 mm ² , preferably between 100 mm ² and 1000 mm ² , and more preferably between 500 mm ² and 600 mm ² , for example 552 mm ² ;

the hydrophobic layer has a planar shape, preferably substantially rectangular or triangular

- Or alternatively, the hydrophobic layer has a three-dimensional shape comprising inclined planes, for example has a shape of pyramid or trunk of pyramid;

the hydrophobic layer is an element added to the vaporization chamber and held in position by an immobilization device comprising a centering element of said element added relative to the injection point, preferably the centering element comprises a half centering pin formed in the vaporization chamber and intended to cooperate with a notch of complementary shape formed in the added element;

- or alternatively the vaporization chamber is obtained by molding a metallic material, and in which the hydrophobic layer is formed by applying a hydrophobic material to the internal surface of the vaporization chamber, for example in the manner paint or coating;

- The internal surface of the vaporization chamber further comprises a hydrophilic layer;

- The hydrophilic layer is covered at least in part by the hydrophobic layer;

- The hydrophilic layer comprises a woven material, and preferably a glass fabric;

- the injection pipe is bevelled at the free end forming the injection point;

- the injection pipe has a portion cut in half;

- The vaporization system further comprises a secondary vaporization chamber in fluid communication with the vaporization chamber, said secondary chamber comprising a plurality of baffles;

- The steam distribution system comprises a distribution chamber in which is disposed at least one steam distribution orifice, said distribution chamber being in vapor communication with the vaporization chamber, preferably the distribution chamber is arranged laterally to the vaporization chambers and secondary vaporization chamber;

- The vaporization system comprises a heating means, located at least partially below the vaporization chamber and comprising an electrical resistance known as a Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) or a ceramic;

- The first and second treatment surfaces are substantially complementary and of planar, or curved, or embossed shape.

According to a second aspect, a steam styling device is proposed for shaping hair comprising:

a first jaw and a second jaw, arranged facing one another and articulated with each other, a first treatment surface being carried by the first jaw and a second treatment surface being carried by the second jaw, the first and second treatment surfaces being configured to pinch at least one lock of hair, a liquid reservoir, the first and / or second jaw further comprising:

a vaporization system for the liquid vapor, comprising at least one vaporization chamber, having an internal surface and communicating via an injection pipe with the liquid reservoir, the injection pipe having a free end forming a point of injection of the liquid into the vaporization chamber, a system for distributing the vapor coming from the vaporization system, comprising at least one orifice for distributing the vapor towards the at least one lock of hair, characterized in that the injection pipe comprises an opening extending substantially along the injection pipe from the free end forming the injection point, the opening having a shape allowing the liquid coming from the reservoir to flow into the vaporization chamber in the event of accumulation and deposit of scale at the free end of the injection pipe.

The hair styling device proposed according to this second aspect may include the following characteristics, taken alone or in combination:

the opening comprises at least one slot extending along an axis substantially parallel to the injection pipe, preferably at least two slots extending on either side of the injection pipe, the at least two slots forming a plane preferably extending parallel to the internal surface;

- The opening is a cut on a half-section of the injection pipe, extending along an axis substantially parallel to the injection pipe, preferably the injection pipe is arranged in the vaporization chamber so that the cutout is on the side opposite to the internal surface of the vaporization chamber;

- the injection pipe is bevelled at the free end forming the injection point;

- a ratio between a height of the vaporization chamber and an internal diameter of the injection pipe is between 0.55 and 0.75;

- a hydrophilic layer extends over the internal surface of the vaporization chamber.

- the hydrophilic layer extends over the entire internal surface of the vaporization chamber.

- The hydrophilic layer comprises a woven material, preferably glass fabric.

- A portion of the hydrophilic layer is arranged so as to partially enter the free end of the injection pipe;

- The vaporization chamber includes a hydrophobic layer arranged under the injection pipe at least at the injection point;

- the hydrophobic layer comprises polytetrafluoroethylene (PTLE);

the hydrophobic layer is positioned only under the injection point and on a surface of between 10 mm ² and 2000 mm ² , preferably between 100 mm ² and 1000 mm ² , and more preferably between 500 mm ² and 600 mm ² , for example 552 mm ² ;

- The hydrophobic layer is an element added in the vaporization chamber, preferably in the form of a plate, and held in position by an immobilization device comprising a centering element of said element added relative to the injection point;

- The vaporization system further comprises a secondary vaporization chamber, in fluid communication with the vaporization chamber and comprising a plurality of baffles;

- The steam distribution system comprises a distribution chamber in which is disposed at least one steam distribution orifice, said distribution chamber being in vapor communication with the vaporization chamber. Preferably, the distribution chamber is disposed laterally to the vaporization chambers and to the secondary vaporization chamber.

- The vaporization system comprises a heating means, located at least partially below the vaporization chamber and comprising an electrical resistance known as a Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) or a ceramic;

- The first and second treatment surfaces are substantially complementary and of planar, or curved, or embossed shape.

DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

Other characteristics, aims and advantages of the invention will appear on reading the detailed description which follows, and with reference to the appended drawings, given by way of non-limiting examples and in which:

[Fig.l]

Figure 1 illustrates an overview of a styling device as described in the present invention.

[Fig.2]

Figure 2 shows a perspective view of a spray system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[Fig.3]

FIG. 3 represents a top view of the vaporization system according to the embodiment of FIG. 2.

[Fig.4A]

Figure 4A is a sectional view of the vaporization system shown in Figure 3 along the axis A-A, according to a first embodiment of the vaporization chamber.

[Fig.4B]

Figure 4B is a sectional view of the vaporization system shown in Figure 3 along axis B-B, according to the embodiment of the vaporization chamber of Figure 4A.

[Fig.5]

Figure 5 is a sectional view of the vaporization system shown in Figure 3 along the axis A-A, according to a second embodiment of the vaporization chamber. [Fig.6A]

Figure 6A is a sectional view of the spray system according to the embodiment of Figure 5, at a first instant.

[Fig.6B]

Figure 6B is a sectional view of the vaporization system according to the embodiment of Figure 5, at a second time, after the first time illustrated in Figure 6A.

[Fig.7]

Figure 7 is a sectional view of the vaporization system shown in Figure 3 along the axis A-A, according to a fourth embodiment of the vaporization chamber.

[Fig.8A]

Figure 8A is a sectional view of the spray system according to the embodiment of Figure 7, at a first instant.

[Fig.8B]

FIG. 8B is a sectional view of the vaporization system according to the embodiment of FIG. 7, at a second instant, after the first instant illustrated in FIG. 8A.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Figure 1 illustrates an exploded perspective view of a steam styling device for shaping hair. As explained above, the steam hairstyling apparatus 1 generally comprises a first jaw 2 and a second jaw 3 arranged opposite one another and articulated with one another, by means of a hinge-type joint 20. L 'maximum angle a (not shown) of opening between the first and the second jaw is between 5 ° and 60 °, preferably between 10 ° and 20 °, and more preferably approximately equal to 15 °.

A first treatment surface is carried by the first jaw 2 and a second treatment surface 4 is carried by the second jaw 3, the first and the second surface being intended to pinch a lock of hair.

The first treatment surface and the second treatment surface 4 are generally complementary surfaces. They can have different shapes depending on the use of the styling device 1 desired, and are preferably interchangeable. Typically, the treatment surfaces are flat for use of the styling apparatus 1 as a straightening appliance, or curved (not shown) for use as a curling appliance or wavy (not illustrated) for use as a embossing appliance. A looping device is for example described in the document EP0619087. The treatment surfaces can also be uneven, that is to say have a plurality of growths such as, for example, teeth or pins (not shown).

The steam hairstyling apparatus also comprises a liquid reservoir, typically a water reservoir (not shown in FIG. 1), or a reservoir containing a cosmetic agent, which can be embedded in one of the jaws, or alternatively be arranged at a distance from the device in a so-called remote base, as envisaged in document EP3025610.

As illustrated in Figures 2 and 3, the liquid reservoir is in fluid communication with a liquid vaporization system 7 via an injection pipe 74. Advantageously, the liquid reservoir is included in the jaw comprising the liquid vaporization system 7.

The vaporization system 7 comprises at least one vaporization chamber 71, called the first vaporization chamber or main vaporization chamber, occupying a first single volume, that is to say a volume defined without discontinuity or without obstacle or fence. The single volume can be substantially parallelepipedal, for example having a rectangular, square, or trapezoidal section. This provides a good compromise between the compactness and the efficiency of the vaporization system. The internal surface of the vaporization chamber 71 is called the surface of the lower wall of the vaporization chamber 71, that is to say the wall forming the bottom of the vaporization chamber 71. Thus, it is primarily on this internal surface that the fluid will be deposited by the injection pipe 74 to be transformed into vapor.

A so-called free end of the injection pipe 74 forms an injection point in the main vaporization chamber 71. Preferably, the injection pipe 74 projects inside the vaporization chamber 71, and the liquid contained in the reservoir can be injected into the main vaporization chamber 71 at this injection point. Typically, the liquid in the tank is water, or a cosmetic product.

The hairdressing apparatus further comprises a steam distribution system 7 'which is in communication with the vaporization system 7 and comprises one or more orifices 75 for distributing steam in the direction of a lock of hair. .

The distribution system 7 ’may for example include a distribution chamber 76 in vapor communication with the vaporization chamber 71, and in which T is arranged at least one steam distribution orifice 75. The distribution chamber 76 may extend laterally to the vaporization system 7, preferably over substantially the entire length of the vaporization system 7. This makes it possible to provide a compromise between the compactness and the efficiency of the vaporization 7 and distribution 7 systems. '.

The vaporization chamber 71 is preferably a compartment heated by a heating means 8, for example a heating means 8 disposed in contact with the vaporization chamber 71, so that a vaporization of the liquid injected into the chamber vaporization 71 can take place, independently of the heating of other components of the hairdressing appliance 1.

The heating means 8 can for example be positioned under the vaporization system 7 as shown in the exploded view of FIG. 1.

The heating means 8 can be arranged against the largest external surface of the vaporization system 7, preferably placed opposite the distribution orifices 75, and extend so as to be pressed at least partially against surfaces side of the spray system 7.

In general, the vaporization is effective in the vaporization system 7 and in the vapor distribution system 7 ’.

Preferably, the vaporization system 7 has a maximum external volume of 110x35x12.5 mm, and has an internal volume sufficient for storage of the tartar contained in at least 35 liters of hard water and hardness 28 ° f. The heating means 8 is for example provided for vaporizing water in a sequence of 10 seconds continuous and 10 seconds of rest with a flow rate around 1 g / min ± 0.5 g / min.

The vaporization system 7 can be made of a metal, an alloy or any heat-conducting material. Typically, the vaporization system 7 is made of aluminum and can be produced by molding or extrusion.

The vaporization system 7 may comprise several parts, in particular at least one cover. According to the exploded view represented in FIG. 1, the vaporization system 7 comprises a first part comprising the vaporization chamber 71 and pressed against the heating means 8, on which comes a second part, in this case a cover, comprising orifices, connected to the steam distribution orifices 75. Preferably, the various parts are sealed, for example by a silicone seal.

Advantageously, a leaf spring allows the heating means 8 to be crushed by the vaporization system 7, in order to guarantee permanent contact and optimal operation.

The heating means 8 can typically be an electrical resistance known as a Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) or a ceramic, but more generally any system making it possible to heat the vaporization chamber 71 in accordance with the desired objective.

Alternatively, the heating means 8 may comprise two heating elements, arranged laterally against each side of the vaporization system 7. Advantageously, one of the two heating elements is pressed between an external lateral surface of the vaporization chamber 71 and a surface outside of the steam distribution system 7 ', in order to heat the vaporization system 7 and the distribution system 7' simultaneously in a small footprint.

The heating means 8 can be regulated by a thermistor, for example with a negative temperature coefficient or NTC, operating as a temperature probe, preferably arranged above the injection point. The thermistor can allow better security of the hairdressing apparatus 1 by blocking the injection of liquid under particular conditions, for example depending on the temperature of the heating means 8. Typically, a low temperature limit is approximately 95 ° C. and an upper temperature limit of 130 ° C, or alternatively according to a reduced temperature range, a lower temperature limit of 105 ° C and an upper temperature limit of 120 ° C, or even 110 ° C.

Advantageously, the injection pipe 74 is arranged substantially in the center of the vaporization chamber 71. The end of the injection pipe 74 forming the injection point is arranged substantially at the first quarter of the length of the vaporization chamber 71. In fact, the injection point should be placed in an area of the vaporization chamber 71 where a maximum temperature prevails and distant from the internal walls of the vaporization chamber 71, in order to improve the vaporization injected liquid. It is also advisable to move the injection point away from the steam distribution means 7 ’in order to limit the risk of ejecting hot water which would not have had time to vaporize.

Preferably, the injection pipe 74 has an outer wall at least 1 mm away from the inner wall of the vaporization chamber 71, and the height of the vaporization chamber is greater than 8 mm, in order to limit a scale deposit from the free end of the injection pipe 74 and therefore a premature blockage.

The injection pipe 74 can be made of a material comprising one or coated with a material on which the tartar does not adhere well, so as to limit a deposit of tartar. Typically, the material chosen can be polytetrafluoroethylene (PTEE, also known under the registered trademark Teflon®) which has the advantage of having excellent non-stick properties while being very resistant to heat. Preferably, at least one internal wall of the injection pipe 74 is coated with PTEE, so that the injection pipe 74 is resistant to high temperatures, in particular above 300 ° C. and has an internal wall with a coefficient of friction very weak, which limits deposit of scale on the internal wall of the injection pipe 74.

The injection pipe 74 preferably has a large internal section to avoid premature blockage of the free end of the injection pipe 74 for example. The internal section can typically have a diameter greater than 3 mm. Preferably greater than 4 mm. In order to limit the transfer of heat from the walls of the vaporization chamber 71 to the liquid, the wall of the injection pipe 74 may advantageously have a thickness greater than 1 mm. A ring of internal section of 6 mm and external of 7 mm in PPS (phenylene polysulphide) can be added to the injection pipe 74, in order to limit the heat transfer to the internal wall of the injection pipe 74.

Preferably, a ratio between the height of the vaporization chamber 71 and the diameter of the internal section of the injection pipe 74 is between 0.55 and 0.75, typically, the ratio is about 0.6 for a height of 4.9 mm and an internal diameter of 3 mm. Indeed, these dimensions have been optimized in order to guarantee the best possible scaling resistance while containing the dimensions of the various components.

Advantageously, the portion forming the free end of the injection pipe 74 may have a specific shape allowing the possible accumulation of tartar to be concentrated in a specific area while providing an area where the liquid can continue to enter the vaporization chamber 71 without being hindered by the accumulation of scale.

For example, the injection pipe 74 is bevelled at the free end forming the injection point as illustrated in Figure 4A.

Alternatively or additionally, the injection pipe 74 may include an opening extending substantially along the injection pipe from the free end forming the injection point. The opening has a shape allowing the liquid coming from the reservoir to flow into the vaporization chamber 71 even in the event of accumulation and deposit of scale at the free end of the injection pipe 74.

In an exemplary embodiment, the opening of the injection pipe 74 is a cut on a half-section of the injection pipe 74, extending along an axis substantially parallel to the injection pipe 74. In the exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 2 to 5, the injection pipe 74 is arranged in the vaporization chamber 71 so that the cutout is on the side opposite to the wall forming the bottom of the vaporization chamber 71. Typically, in an exemplary embodiment where the vaporization chamber 71 is closed by a plate forming a cover, this means that the cutout of the pipe 74 is then oriented towards the plate forming the cover.

In an exemplary embodiment illustrated in Figure 7, the opening of the injection pipe 74 comprises at least one slot extending along an axis substantially parallel to the injection pipe 74. Preferably, the opening can comprise two slots extending on either side of the injection pipe 74.

According to a preferred but not mandatory embodiment, the internal surface of the vaporization chamber 71 is covered at least in part by a hydrophobic layer 9 positioned under the injection point. The hydrophobic layer 9 makes it possible not to generate evaporation under the injection point but to push the evaporation further into the evaporation chamber 71, so as not to store any deposit of tartar under the injection point. Indeed, the hydrophobic layer 9 is characterized by a high surface tension.

Advantageously, the hydrophobic layer 9 comprises polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). PTFE is a material resistant to high temperatures (especially above 300 ° C) and has a very low coefficient of friction, which limits deposit of scale at the injection point since water cannot stay.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the hydrophobic layer 9 is positioned only under the injection point. By this is meant that only a surface under the injection point is covered by the hydrophobic layer 9, which therefore does not entirely cover the internal surface of the vaporization chamber 71. In particular, the hydrophobic layer 9 can cover a surface between 10mm ² and 2000mm ² , preferably between 100mm ² and 1000mm ² , and more preferably between 500mm ² and 600mm ² . Typically, the hydrophobic layer 9 can cover the internal surface forming a bottom of the vaporization chamber 71, on an area of approximately 552 mm ² .

The hydrophobic layer 9 may have a planar shape, preferably substantially rectangular or triangular. It can also take a three-dimensional shape defined for example by inclined planes, making it possible to improve the sliding of the liquid to move the evaporation point away from the free end of the injection pipe 74. Such a three-dimensional shape can also contribute to distribute the liquid well when it arrives in the vaporization chamber, breaking the large drops and distributing them in smaller drops over the entire internal surface of the vaporization chamber 71. Thus, the efficiency of the vaporization is improved while reducing the risk of scaling (blockage) of the device. In the embodiment where the hydrophobic layer 9 has a three-dimensional shape, the shape of the hydrophobic layer 9 can also be produced during the manufacture of the vaporization chamber 71, typically by integrating the shape into the molding.

In an exemplary embodiment shown in Figures 4A and 4B, the hydrophobic layer 9 has for example a pyramid shape. Alternatively, the hydrophobic layer 9 can have the shape of a truncated pyramid.

In an exemplary embodiment, the hydrophobic layer 9, if any, is formed by applying a hydrophobic material to an internal surface of the vaporization chamber 71. Typically, the hydrophobic material can be applied in the manner of a paint or of a coating or sprayed on the internal surface of the spraying chamber 71.

Advantageously, the hydrophobic layer 9 is an insert in the vaporization chamber 71. The insert is held in position in the vaporization chamber 71 by an immobilization device comprising a centering element 710 of the element reported in relation to the injection site.

In the example of vaporization chamber 71 illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3, the centering element 710 comprises a centering half-pin 710a formed in the vaporization chamber 71 and intended to cooperate with a notch 9a of complementary shape provided in the insert 9.

Alternatively or additionally, the internal surface of the vaporization chamber 71 comprises a hydrophilic layer 10, that is to say a layer characterized by a low surface tension. The hydrophilic layer 10 extends over all or part of the internal surface of the vaporization chamber 71.

The hydrophilic layer 10 can be positioned only under the injection point, in the sense that only one surface under the injection point is covered with the hydrophilic layer 10. Preferably, the hydrophilic layer 10 extends over any the internal surface of the vaporization chamber 71, so as to maximize diffusion of the liquid.

Preferably, the hydrophilic layer 10 comprises a woven material, for example a glass fabric, which makes it possible to remarkably limit the phenomenon of calefaction.

According to a particular embodiment, illustrated in particular in Figures 4A and 4B, the vaporization chamber 71 comprises a hydrophilic layer 10 covered at least in part by a hydrophobic layer 9. In this embodiment, the liquid injected into the level of the injection point drops in the form of a drop on the hydrophobic layer 9, and remains in the form of a sphere due to the high surface tension of the hydrophobic material constituting the hydrophobic layer 9, this sphere then sliding towards the hydrophilic layer 10, away from the injection site. The hydrophilic layer 10 having a low surface tension, the drop of water can evaporate instantly. This reduces the appearance of tartar which will in any event be deposited if necessary at a distance from the injection site.

Advantageously but not required, and as shown in particular in Figures 2 and 3, the liquid vaporization system 7 may also include a second vaporization chamber or secondary vaporization chamber 72, in fluid communication with the first vaporization chamber 71 and occupies a second separate volume. The first vaporization chamber 71 is then arranged upstream of the second vaporization chamber 72 in the direction of the passage of the vapor.

In this embodiment, the transformation of the liquid injected into the vaporization chamber 71 into vapor takes place in at least two separate vaporization chambers (71,72). This effectively retains unwanted tartar and improves the lime resistance of the styling appliance 1 and therefore its duration of use.

Preferably, the second vaporization chamber or secondary vaporization chamber 72 comprises discontinuities or obstacles by the presence of baffles 73 to create a labyrinth type path for the vapor.

By baffle 73 is meant any obstacle or barrier placed in the chamber creating uneven movements of the vapor, in a zigzag pattern for example, reducing the speed of passage through the secondary vaporization chamber 72, and increasing the contact with the surfaces of the different walls of the chamber 72. This makes it possible to vaporize any drops of liquid, and thus to ensure total vaporization of the liquid, the heat exchange surface being increased by the presence of the baffles 73. The baffles 73 can for example be distributed parallel to each other. This allows the passage of steam according to a regular geometry, therefore trapping tartar in a homogeneous manner in the second vaporization chamber 72.

Preferably, the first volume occupied by the first vaporization chamber 71 is greater than the second volume occupied by the second vaporization chamber 72, or even at least twice as much, so as to allow rapid vaporization in the first volume, and not to reduce the compactness of the vaporization system 7.

In this embodiment, the possible distribution chamber 76 can be arranged laterally to the vaporization chamber 71 and to the secondary vaporization chamber 72, preferably over substantially the entire length of the vaporization system 7.

Such an arrangement and the corresponding operation are described in detail in document EP2591698.

Specific embodiments schematically representing the vaporization system 7 during operation are given in Figures 6A, 6B and 8A, 8B, to illustrate the benefits of the features described above.

In a first embodiment shown in Figures 6A and 6B, the injection pipe 74 comprises an opening with a cutout on a half-section, and the internal surface of the vaporization chamber 71 is covered with a hydrophobic layer 9 covering all or part of the internal surface of the vaporization chamber 71. In operation, according to FIG. 6A, at a first instant T1, typically during a first use of the styling appliance 1, the liquid in coming from the reservoir is injected into the vaporization chamber 71 through the injection pipe 74, at the free end forming an initial injection point 11.

The injected water evaporates on contact with the hydrophobic layer 9, at a vaporization point distant from the initial injection point 11, by a rapid increase in temperature. Since the liquid water injected may contain minerals, a gradual accumulation of limescale or tartar takes place at the end forming the initial injection point 11. A progressive deposit of tartar can take place inside the pipe. injection, until the extremity becomes blocked.

According to Figure 6B, at a time T2 subsequent to T1, for example after more than 10L of hard water, typically of hardness 28 ° f, has been injected into the vaporization chamber 71, a scale plug 12 obstructs the end of the injection pipe 74. The water then flows into the vaporization chamber 71 at another injection point 11 ', located upstream of the injection pipe 74 relative to the point initial injection 11. Water may possibly flow on either side of the injection pipe 74, or over the scale plug 12.

In this embodiment, the injection point 11 'is gradually shifted along the cut of the injection pipe 74 throughout the use of the styling device 1, depending on the accumulation of tartar. In other words, the moment when the injection point is blocked by scale is remarkably prolonged in time, since it is necessary to wait until the entire length of the cut of the injection pipe 74 is blocked by scale so that water injection can no longer occur. Thus the resistance of the device to scaling is considerably improved.

In a second embodiment shown in Figures 8A and 8B, the injection pipe 74 includes an opening with a slot at the free end, and the internal surface of the vaporization chamber 71 is covered with a hydrophobic layer 9 covering all or part of the internal surface of the vaporization chamber 71. In operation, according to FIG. 8A, at a first instant Tl ′, typically during a first use of the styling device 1, the liquid from the reservoir is injected into the vaporization chamber 71 through the injection pipe 74, at the free end forming an initial injection point 11.

As in the previous example, the injected water evaporates on contact with the hydrophobic layer 9, at a vaporization point distant from the initial injection point 11, by a rapid increase in temperature. Since the liquid water injected may contain minerals, a gradual accumulation of lime takes place at the end forming the initial injection point 10. A progressive deposit of tartar can take place inside the injection pipe 74 , until an obstruction of the extremity.

According to Figure 8B, at a time T2 'subsequent to Tl', for example after more than 10 L of hard water, typically of hardness 28 ° f, has been injected into the vaporization chamber 71, a plug of scale 12 clogs the end of the injection pipe 74. The water then flows into the vaporization chamber 71 at another injection point 11 ′, located upstream of the injection pipe with respect to at the initial injection point 11. In the particular case where the opening comprises two slots on either side of the injection pipe 74, the water may flow at two injection points on both sides and on the other side of the injection pipe 74.

As in the previous example, the injection point 11 'is gradually shifted along the slit throughout the use of the styling device 1, depending on the accumulation of tartar . In other words, the moment when the injection point is blocked by scale is remarkably prolonged in time, since it is necessary to wait until the entire length of the cut of the injection pipe 74 is blocked by scale so that water injection can no longer occur. Thus the resistance of the device to scaling is considerably improved.

Thus, the addition of an opening on the injection pipe 74 and / or the presence of a hydrophobic layer 9 at the injection point allow an increase in the life of the device 1 by better resistance to scaling.

The reader will have understood that many modifications can be made without materially departing from the new teachings and the advantages described here. Therefore, all such modifications are intended to be incorporated within the scope of the hair styling device presented.

Claims (1)

Claims [Claim 1] Steam styling apparatus (1) for shaping hair comprising: - a first jaw (2) and a second jaw (3), arranged facing one another and articulated with each other, a first treatment surface (4) being carried by the first jaw (2) and a second treatment surface being carried by the second jaw (3), the first and second treatment surfaces being configured to pinch at least one lock of hair, - a liquid reservoir, the first and / or the second jaw (2,3) further comprising: - a vaporization system (7) of the liquid in vapor, comprising at least one vaporization chamber (71), having a surface internal and communicating via an injection pipe (74) with the liquid reservoir, the injection pipe (74) having a free end forming a point for injecting the liquid into the vaporization chamber (71 ), - a distribution system (7 ') for the steam coming from the vaporization system (7), comprising at least one steam distribution orifice (75) towards the at least one lock of hair, characterized in that the injection pipe (74) comprises an opening extending substantially along the injection pipe (74) from the free end forming the injection point, the opening having a shape allowing the liquid coming from the reservoir flow into the vaporization chamber (71) in the event of scale build-up and deposit at the free end of the injection pipe (74). [Claim 2] Steam styling apparatus (1) according to claim 1, wherein the opening comprises at least one slot extending along an axis substantially parallel to the injection pipe (74). [Claim 3] Steam hair styling apparatus (1) according to claim 2, wherein the opening comprises at least two slots extending on either side of the injection pipe (74), the at least two slots forming a plane s 'preferably extending parallel to the internal surface of the vaporization chamber (71). [Claim 4] Steam hair styling apparatus (1) according to claim 1, wherein the opening is a cut on a half section of the injection pipe (74), extending along an axis substantially parallel to the injection pipe (74). [Claim 5] Steam hair styling apparatus (1) according to claim 4, in which the injection pipe (74) is arranged in the vaporization chamber (71) so that the cutout is on the side opposite the internal surface of the vaporization chamber. vaporization (71). [Claim 6] Steam hair styling apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the injection pipe (74) is bevelled at the free end forming the injection point. [Claim 7] Steam hair styling apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein a ratio between a height of the vaporization chamber (71) and an internal diameter of the injection pipe (74) is between 0.55 and 0.75. [Claim 8] Steam styling apparatus (1) according to any of claims 1 to 7, wherein a hydrophilic layer (10) extends over the internal surface of the vaporization chamber (71). [Claim 9] Steam styling apparatus (1) according to claim 8, wherein the hydrophilic layer (10) extends over the entire internal surface of the vaporization chamber (71). [Claim 10] Steam hair styling apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 8 and 9, wherein the hydrophilic layer (10) comprises a woven material, preferably glass fabric. [Claim 11] Steam hair styling apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 8 to 10, in which a portion of the hydrophilic layer (10) is arranged so as to partially enter the free end of the injection pipe (74) . [Claim 12] Steam hair styling apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the vaporization chamber (71) comprises a hydrophobic layer (9) arranged under the injection pipe (74) at least at the level of the injection place. [Claim 13] Steam styling apparatus (1) according to claim 12, wherein the hydrophobic layer (9) comprises polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). [Claim 14] Hairdressing appliance (1) according to any one of claims 12 or 13, in which the hydrophobic layer (9) is positioned only under the injection point and on a surface of between 10mm ² and 2000 mm ² , preferably 552 mm ² . [Claim 15] Steam hair styling apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 12 to 14, wherein the hydrophobic layer (9) is an element added in the vaporization chamber (71), preferably in the form of a plate, and held in position by an immobilizing device comprising a centering element (710) of said element attached relative to the injection point. [Claim 16] Steam hair styling apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the vaporization system further comprises a secondary vaporization chamber (72), in fluid communication with the vaporization chamber (71) and comprising a plurality of baffles (73). [Claim 17] Steam hairdressing apparatus (1) according to any one of Claims 1 to 16, in which the steam distribution system (7 ') comprises a distribution chamber (76) in which the at least one orifice is arranged steam distribution (75), said distribution chamber (76) being in vapor communication with the vaporization chamber (71). [Claim 18] Steam styling apparatus (1) according to claims 16 and 17, wherein the dispensing chamber (76) is arranged laterally to the vaporization chamber (71) and to the secondary vaporization chamber (72). 1/4