JP2017170149A - Attachment for hand held appliance - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an attachment for a hair care appliance which allows hair to be easily removed and not to become tangled.SOLUTION: An attachment for a hair care appliance includes a body having: a fluid inlet; a fluid outlet; a fluid flow path extending between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet; and a first vane and a second vane for directing fluid within the fluid flow path towards the fluid outlet. The body comprises at least two extended plates. The fluid outlet comprises a slot defined by an overlap between the at least two extended plates. The first vane and the second vane are curved and positioned within the overlap between the at least two extended plates. The first vane and the second vane curve in opposite directions. The fluid inlet may have a first cross sectional area, and the body includes an outer wall that has a second cross sectional area, where the second cross sectional area is greater than the first cross sectional area.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 17

Description

  The present invention relates to accessories for hand-held devices, particularly hair care devices such as warm air hair styling devices.

  In the conventional warm air hairdressing apparatus, air is sucked into the inlet by the fan unit and directed to the hair by the head portion or accessories. Depending on the hairstyle desired, the air may or may not be heated. In many cases, the head portion or accessory includes a hair-like projection that wraps and holds the hair for styling. Air is typically blown off at right angles from the surface of the accessory. When curling hair, it may be difficult to unravel the hair from the trichomes, and the hair may become tangled.

  When curling hair, it is also known to use a hair iron that is secured with a barrel clip for a certain period of time after the heated barrel has reached a high temperature and the hair has been wound around the barrel. When such a hair iron is repeatedly used at high temperatures, the hair may be damaged.

  In a first aspect of the present invention, a hair care device, comprising a fluid inlet, a fluid outlet, a fluid flow path extending between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet, and at least directing fluid in the fluid flow path to the fluid outlet. A body having one vane, the body includes at least two extension plates, the fluid outlet includes a slot defined by an overlap between the at least two extension plates, and the at least one vane has at least two A hair care device is provided that is located within the overlap between extension plates.

  There are advantages to providing vanes on the inner surface of each plate that function to accurately guide the flow as it flows out of the accessory. Specifically, a uniform air flow is discharged from the accessory, allowing the hair bundle to adhere uniformly over the length of the barrel.

  The body is preferably elongated and extends along the axis. In a preferred embodiment, the elongated body has a first end and a second end, and the fluid inlet is at the first end. The fluid outlet preferably extends along an axis between the first end and the second end.

  In a preferred embodiment, at least one vane is an airfoil. This shape is advantageous because it suppresses turbulence.

  The at least one vane preferably directs the fluid flowing through the fluid flow path from the first direction to the second direction. In a preferred embodiment, the first direction is parallel to the axis of the body. The second direction is preferably 85 ° to 95 ° from the axis.

  In a preferred embodiment, the at least one vane includes a plurality of vanes extending from the first end of the body toward the second end of the body.

  The plurality of vanes are preferably spaced irregularly along the body. In a preferred embodiment, the plurality of vanes gradually approach each other toward the second end.

  The plurality of vanes are preferably angled with respect to the axis of the body. In a preferred embodiment, the angle of at least some of the plurality of vanes is different from adjacent vanes. Preferably, the angle of the plurality of vanes with respect to the axis increases towards the second end.

  In order to optimize the adhesion of the air flow, it is advantageous to provide vanes of different angles in the overlap, where the angle of the vanes depends on the position of the vanes along the length of the accessory.

  In a preferred embodiment, the size of the plurality of vanes varies between the first end and the second end. The plurality of vanes are preferably gradually reduced toward the second end of the main body.

  In a preferred embodiment, each of the plurality of vanes has the same shape.

  The slot is preferably curved with respect to the axis of the body. Combining the twisted helix of each plate forming a helical fluid outlet slot with an internal vane that directs the flow out of the accessory is advantageous because it enhances the airflow adhesion to the surface of the accessory. .

  In a preferred embodiment, the at least one vane is substantially the same length as the overlap between the at least two extension plates.

  One of the at least one vane preferably has a flow guiding function in addition to the structural function.

  In a preferred embodiment, each extension plate is formed of struts and plates.

  The slots are preferably formed with struts and plates from adjacent extension plates.

  According to a second aspect, the present invention is an accessory for a hair care device, comprising a first end and a second end, a fluid inlet at the first end, a fluid outlet, and a fluid inlet. And an elongate body having a fluid flow path extending between the elongate fluid outlet and the fluid outlet, wherein a cold tip is provided adjacent the second end of the elongate body, the cold tip being the second end of the elongate body. Provide accessories spaced from

  The gap between the bottom surface of the cold tip and the adjacent end of the elongated body also has the advantage of advantageously minimizing heat transfer to the cold tip and allowing manufacturing tolerances between the assembly subsections.

  A gap is preferably provided between the cold tip and the second end of the elongated body.

  In a preferred embodiment, the cold tip includes an annular flange that extends around the second end of the elongated body. The elongated body preferably has an outer wall. In a preferred embodiment, the annular flange is spaced from the outer wall.

  In a preferred embodiment, the cold tip includes a handle extending from the flange. The handle is preferably cylindrical. In a preferred embodiment, the handle is hollow. A hollow handle on the cold tip is advantageous because the internal air provides further insulation.

  The outer wall is preferably formed of at least two plates extending from the first end to the second end.

  In a preferred embodiment, the fluid outlet includes a slot that extends between at least two plates. The slot is preferably curved. In a preferred embodiment, the fluid outlet includes a plurality of slots.

  According to a third aspect, the present invention is an accessory for a hair care device, comprising a first subassembly and a second subassembly, wherein the first subassembly is of the second subassembly. An accessory is provided that includes a cage to which the component is attached.

  The first subassembly is preferably formed of a plurality of spaced struts.

  In a preferred embodiment, the second subassembly includes a plurality of plates.

  Each of the plurality of spaced struts preferably includes a longitudinal flange extending from the first end to the second end. In a preferred embodiment, each of the plurality of plates includes a cooperating longitudinal flange.

  It is preferred to provide an equal number of plates and struts.

  In a preferred embodiment, the first subassembly includes at least one structural vane extending between a pair of adjacent struts.

  The second subassembly preferably includes a plurality of plates, each of the plurality of plates including a recess that receives at least one structural vane.

  In a preferred embodiment, the accessory includes an elongated body formed of a plurality of spaced struts and a plurality of plates. The elongate body preferably includes a first end and a second end.

  In a preferred embodiment, each of the plurality of plates and the plurality of spaced struts includes one of a pair of cooperating protrusions and recesses at the first end of the elongated body. Each of the plurality of plates and the plurality of spaced struts preferably includes the other of the pair of cooperating protrusions and recesses at the second end of the elongated body.

  In a preferred embodiment, after attaching the plurality of plates to the first subassembly, the plurality of plates are welded to the first subassembly.

  Each of the plurality of spaced struts includes a longitudinal flange extending from the first end to the second end, and each of the plurality of plates includes a cooperating longitudinal flange, the flanges together It is preferable to be welded.

  In a preferred embodiment, there is a slot at the distal end of each of the plurality of spaced struts and each of the plurality of plates from the longitudinal flange and the cooperating longitudinal flange, the slot being a fluid from the accessory. Form part of the outlet.

  A plurality of vanes are preferably provided in the slot. In a preferred embodiment, a plurality of vanes serve to maintain a slot gap between the strut and the plate. The plurality of vanes preferably serve to change the direction of fluid flowing out of the slot.

  In a preferred embodiment, the first end of the elongate body is provided with a connection ring that connects the accessory to the hair care device.

  In a fourth aspect, the present invention is an accessory for a hair care device, the first end and the second end, the fluid inlet at the first end, the fluid outlet, the fluid inlet, and the fluid An elongated body having a fluid flow path extending between the outlet and a collar is provided at the first end to provide an accessory that extends around the elongated body.

  The first end of the accessory has a square shelf or collar that functions to avoid air entrainment in the vicinity of the warm air hairdressing device and to prevent the hair wrapped around the warm air hairdressing device from coming down. There is an advantage in providing.

  The fluid outlet preferably extends from near the collar of the elongated body toward the second end. In a preferred embodiment, the collar extends out of the elongated body. The elongate body preferably extends along an axis and the collar is substantially perpendicular to the axis of the elongate body. In a preferred embodiment, the elongate body extends radially from the shaft and the collar extends further than the elongate body from the shaft. The collar preferably extends radially around the elongated body.

  In a preferred embodiment, the fluid outlet includes at least one slot extending along the elongated body.

  The outer wall is preferably formed of at least two extension plates, and at least one slot extends between the at least two extension plates.

  In a preferred embodiment, the elongated body extends along the axis and at least one slot is curved with respect to the axis. The at least one slot is preferably helical.

  According to a fifth aspect, the present invention is an accessory for a hair care device, comprising a first end and a second end, a fluid inlet at the first end, a fluid outlet, and a fluid inlet. And a fluid channel extending between the fluid outlet and the fluid outlet, wherein the first end has a diameter greater than the second end and the fluid outlet is second from the first end. Provide an accessory that extends to the end of the.

  The elongated body preferably converges from the first end toward the second end. In a preferred embodiment, the elongated body diameter gradually decreases from the first end. The diameter reduction preferably extends along a portion of the elongated body. In a preferred embodiment, there is a gradual transition from the diameter of the first end to the diameter of the second end.

  The elongate body preferably includes an extension plate that extends from the first end to the second end. In a preferred embodiment, the extension plate has a substantially uniform thickness along the body.

  Any change in diameter along the length of the elongated body is preferably both an internal change and an external change.

  In a preferred embodiment, the elongate body extends toward the first end. The expansive shape of the first end of the accessory advantageously assists in the initial attachment of the end of the hair bundle by suppressing turbulence. In addition, the hair is wound from the second end of the accessory towards the air inlet end.

  The elongate body preferably extends along the axis and has a substantially constant diameter along the axis from the second end toward the first end.

  In a preferred embodiment, the fluid outlet includes at least one slot extending along the elongated body. The elongate body preferably extends along the axis and at least one slot is curved with respect to the axis. In a preferred embodiment, at least one slot is helical.

  Advantageously, the accessories of the present invention can be provided in different sizes so that hair styling of multiple sizes of curls is possible. Furthermore, either a clockwise helical air outlet slot or a counterclockwise helical air outlet slot can be used. The direction of slot overlap determines the direction of curl.

  According to a sixth aspect, the present invention is an accessory for a hair care device, comprising a fluid inlet, a fluid outlet, a fluid channel extending between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet, and a fluid in the fluid channel. A body having a first vane and a second vane directing the fluid outlet to the fluid outlet, the body including at least two extension plates, and the fluid outlet having a slot defined by an overlap between the at least two extension plates. Including an accessory in which the first vane and the second vane are curved and located within the overlap between the at least two extension plates, and the first vane and the second vane are curved in the opposite direction. .

  The fluid inlet has a first cross-sectional area, the body includes an outer wall, the outer wall of the body includes a second cross-sectional area, and the second cross-sectional area is greater than the first cross-sectional area. preferable.

In a preferred embodiment, the fluid inlet has a diameter d _f, accessory has a diameter d _2, d ₂ is greater than d _f.

  The body is preferably elongated and extends along the axis. In a preferred embodiment, the body has a first end and a second end, and a fluid inlet is present at the first end.

  The first vane is preferably adjacent to the fluid inlet. In a preferred embodiment, the first vane has a convex surface, the convex surface facing the fluid inlet.

  The second vane has a concave surface, preferably the concave surface faces the fluid inlet.

  In a preferred embodiment, the first vane and the second vane are airfoils.

  The fluid outlet preferably extends along an axis between the first end and the second end.

  In a preferred embodiment, the second vane includes a plurality of vanes spaced along the extension plate. The plurality of vanes are preferably spaced irregularly along the extension plate. In a preferred embodiment, the plurality of vanes are angled with respect to the axis of the body. The angle of at least some of the plurality of vanes is preferably different from the adjacent vanes. In a preferred embodiment, the angle of the plurality of vanes relative to the axis increases towards the second end. The size of the plurality of vanes preferably varies along the extension plate. In a preferred embodiment, each of the plurality of vanes has the same shape. The at least one vane is preferably substantially the same length as the overlap between the at least two extension plates.

  In a preferred embodiment, the slot is curved with respect to the axis of the body.

  Each extension plate is preferably formed of a strut and a plate.

  In a preferred embodiment, the slots are formed with struts and plates from adjacent extension plates.

  The accessory preferably further comprises at least one structural vane. In a preferred embodiment, at least one structural vane connects the strut and the adjacent strut. At least one structural vane preferably connects the strut and the plate.

  Advantageously, the protrusion at the leading edge of the inner surface of the plate enhances the air flow adherence to the outer surface of the accessory, especially of larger diameters (eg 40 mm).

  According to another aspect, the present invention is an accessory for a hair care device comprising a body having a fluid inlet, a fluid outlet, and a fluid flow path extending between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet. Provides an accessory including a slot defined by an overlap between the radially inner extension plate and the radially outer extension plate.

  The radially inner extension plate preferably includes a radially inner surface that curves radially inward toward the overlap.

  The radially inner extension plate preferably includes struts and plates.

  In a preferred embodiment, the radially inner surface preferably includes reinforcing ribs that extend radially inward of the struts. This reinforcing rib is rounded and therefore it is preferable to smoothly transfer the fluid flowing in the accessory. The reinforcing rib extends at least partially along the radially inner surface of the strut from the inlet end of the overlapping portion.

  The struts preferably include a protrusion disposed adjacent to the inlet end of the radially inner plate. This protrusion is a strut bulge or a locally thickened portion. The protrusion is preferably substantially hemispherical. The protrusion preferably extends from the strut inlet end to the strut outlet end. Alternatively, the protrusion extends partially along the strut.

  In a preferred embodiment, the reinforcing ribs, protrusions or ridges extend along substantially the entire length of the strut.

  The reinforcing rib, protrusion or ridge preferably includes a chamfered surface or an inclined surface adjacent to the fluid inlet. As a result, the fluid flowing into the accessory smoothly moves. The accessory preferably includes a connection ring for connecting to the device. In a preferred embodiment, the connection ring defines a fluid inlet into the accessory. The reinforcing ribs, protrusions or ridges are preferably located in the same plane as the connection ring adjacent to the connection ring. In a preferred embodiment, the reinforcing ribs, protrusions or ridges extend radially inward from the connecting ring towards the downstream end of the accessory to a minimum radius. The reinforcing ribs, protrusions or ridges preferably maintain a substantially constant radius from the longitudinal axis XX of the accessory when the minimum radius is reached.

  The hair care device is preferably a warm air hair styling device.

  The preferred features of the present invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings.

It is a perspective view of the embodiment of the present invention. It is an exploded view of accessories. FIG. 3 is an isometric view of a first subassembly. FIG. 6 is an exploded view of a second subassembly. It is a side view of an accessory. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA in FIG. 3. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB in FIG. 3. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XX in FIG. 3. It is a top end view of an accessory. It is a lower end view of an accessory. It is a front view of a single plate. It is a side view of a single plate. It is a perspective view of the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is an exploded view of the accessory of FIG. It is a side view of the accessory of FIG. FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA in FIG. 13. It is sectional drawing cut along line BB of FIG. It is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the accessory of FIG. FIG. 12 is a side view of a single plate of the accessory of FIG. It is a side view of the example of the warm air hairdressing apparatus which can connect an accessory.

  FIG. 1 is an external view of an accessory 10 of the present invention. The accessory 10 includes a fluid inlet 20 for receiving an air flow from the air outlet end of a warm air hairdressing device or similar device. The fluid inlet 20 is generally circular and allows an airtight connection with the generally circular outlet end of the warm air hairdressing device.

  The accessory 10 is essentially cylindrical and preferably extends longitudinally from the fluid inlet 20 to the distal end 30 and follows the line drawn by the warm air hairdressing device. The accessory has an elongate body 12 having a first end 14 and a second end 16. A plurality of elongate plates 40 extend from the first end 14 to the second end 16 and an elongate slot 50 disposed between adjacent plates 40 constitutes the elongate fluid outlet of the accessory. The distal end 30 of the accessory 10 includes a cold tip 32.

In this embodiment, accessory 10 extends at least partially along the elongate body 12 has a diameter d ₁ of the small constant than the diameter d _f of the fluid inlet 20.

  2a, 2b and 2c are exploded and isometric views representing some internal features of the preferred embodiment of the accessory 10, and the components shown can also be preferred assembly subsections. 2a and 2b show that the first subassembly 100 is formed by a central cylindrical cage structure 60 shown as having six elongated support struts 62. FIG. Six elongated support struts 62 extend between the collar 64 at the fluid inlet 20 of the central cylindrical cage structure 60 and the end wall 66 at the second end 24 of the central cylindrical cage structure 60. The collar 64 extends from the connection ring 68. The connecting ring 68 functions to join the accessory 10 to a warm air hair styling device or similar device. The end wall 66 includes a protruding ring 26 for attaching the cold tip 32 via a lug 28 provided around the radial tip 32 in the radial direction. The fluid outlet is formed by a slot 50 that extends from the adjacent portion of the collar 64 of the central cylindrical cage structure 60 to the end wall 66 of the second end 24.

  As shown in FIG. 2 c, the second subassembly 110 is formed by six separate plates 40. The second subassembly 110 is attached to the first subassembly 100 when the accessory is manufactured. In the preferred embodiment, each plate 40 is attached to a strut 62 to form an extension plate 54 (see FIG. 5), thereby extending between the collar 64 and the second end 24 of the central cylindrical cage structure 60. An elongated body 12 is formed. The elongate body 12 has a first end 14 adjacent the collar 64 of the central cylindrical cage structure 60 and a second end 16 adjacent the end wall 66. The elongate body 12 extends for a length similar to the struts 62, the plate 40 and the elongate slot 50. The collar 64 and connecting ring 68 form part of the central cylindrical cage structure 60 but do not form the elongate body 12.

  The collar 64 is a flat ring and extends from the elongated body and has a diameter that is larger than the diameter of the connection ring 68, the elongated body 12 and the cylindrical cage 60. The collar 64 is substantially perpendicular to the accessory longitudinal axis XX, which is also the longitudinal axis of the elongated body 12.

  To attach the first subassembly to the second subassembly, each plate 40 is attached to a strut 62. The strut 62 has a plurality of features that function to receive a connection mechanism located on the inner surface of each plate 50. Specifically, three structural vanes 70 extend from the front edge 62a of each strut 62 at equal intervals and are joined to the outer surface 72 of the nearest strut. The inner surface 42 of each plate 40 has three indentations 44 arranged to receive the structural vanes 70. In a further embodiment, both ends of the outer surface 72 of each strut include a recess 74 suitable for receiving protrusions 46 located at both ends of the inner surface 42 of each plate 40. Each strut 62 also includes a longitudinal flange 76 extending from the leading edge 62a. Each plate 40 has a cooperating longitudinal flange 48. In this embodiment, cooperating longitudinal flanges 48 are formed as extensions of the three depressions 44 that form the local thin portion of the plate 40. The longitudinal flange 48 of the strut 62 is also effectively a thin portion of the strut 62. When the plate 40 is attached to the strut 62, an extension plate 54 (see FIG. 5) is formed and the longitudinal flange 76 cooperates with the cooperating longitudinal flange 48 to position the plate 40 relative to the strut 62. In a preferred embodiment, when the plate 40 is attached to the strut 62, the outer surface 72 of the strut 62 continues beyond the outer surface 52 of the plate 40.

  In a preferred embodiment, in addition to the aids for mounting and positioning the plate 50 described above, additional fastening means such as ultrasonic welding or ultrasonic bonding can be utilized. These parts are preferably welded along the length of the flange and three recesses 44. As a result, the front edge 62a of each strut 62 becomes airtight and air flows out from the elongated slot 50.

  As shown in FIGS. 2 b and 2 c, a plurality of vanes 100 are arranged on the inner surface 42 of each plate 40. Specifically, the vane 100 is disposed along the front edge 42a of each plate 40 in a direction across the accessory longitudinal axis XX. In a preferred embodiment, the vane 100 is spaced along the length of the plate 40 and includes a gap where the positioning recess 44 is present. The length and depth of the vane 100 and the angle from perpendicular to the leading edge 42a of the plate 40 gradually decrease from the first end 14 to the second end 16.

  The structural vane 70 further has a function of guiding the flow. Thus, structural vanes have a structural function and a function to change the direction of flow. The structural vanes 70 have the same angle and shape as the vanes 100 adjacent to each structural vane 70.

  The vane 100 and the structural vane 70 extend the length of the elongated body 12 from the fluid inlet 20 to the second end 16 so that the volume and direction of air flow from the slot 50 is uniform along the length of the slot 50. Optimized for decreasing air pressure and air volume along the length.

  FIG. 3 is a side view of the accessory. The shape of the leading edge of each plate is non-parallel to the longitudinal axis XX of the accessory. Specifically, each plate twists around the accessory longitudinal axis XX to form a helical arrangement. The slot is preferably curved by an angle of 45 ° from the longitudinal axis XX of the accessory. In this example, the slot 50 is curved in the counterclockwise direction from the first end portion 14 toward the second end portion 16. The slot 50 is formed between adjacent overlapping extension plates 54a, 54b, but to form a curved slot, the plate 40 is also angled 45 ° rather than extending along the longitudinal axis of the accessory. It is preferable to bend only.

  In FIG. 3, the vane 100 located on the inner surface of one particular plate 50 is visible through a slot between two adjacent plates. In the preferred embodiment shown, the diameter of the elongated body 12 is greater at the first end 14 than at the second end 16. Specifically, the plate configuration extends toward the first end 14 of the elongated body 12.

  This side view of the accessory shown in FIG. 3 shows a protrusion 76 regularly arranged on the connecting ring 68 that allows a click-type connection to the fluid outlet end of a warm air hairdressing device or similar device. Is shown. Those skilled in the art will appreciate other mounting options such as a threaded configuration or a push-in configuration.

  FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of elongated body 12 taken along line AA. Although this cross-sectional view shows six extension plates 54, each containing one plate 40 and one strut 62, this view does not penetrate structural vane 70 or vane 100. The width of the fluid outlet path 58 between the extension plate 54 and the subsequent extension plate 54a is not constant. Specifically, each extension plate 54 has an arcuate cross section having a radius smaller than the radius of the entire elongated body 12. As a result, the size of each fluid outlet path 58 is minimized at the associated outlet slot 50. The fluid outlet path 58 narrows toward each slot 50, but the thickness of the extension plate 54 does not change substantially. Accordingly, the thickness of the longitudinal flange 76 and the cooperating longitudinal flange 48 are both about half the thickness of the plate 40 and the strut 62.

  The air flow discharged from each slot 50 is tangent to the outer surface 54b of the extension plate 54, and together with the air flow discharged from the other slots, forms a fluid passage 78 continuous around the outer periphery of the accessory. To do. The air flow discharged from the slot 50 is attracted to the curved surface of the accessory by the Coanda effect. As a result, the hair exposed to the accessory 10 is wound around the cylindrical surface of the accessory 10 under the influence of the air flow. Specifically, the tip of the hair bundle exposed to the accessory 10 is attracted to the outer surface of the accessory 10, and then the hair bundle is wound around the accessory 10. Air is blown over the length of the hair, so wet hair dries quickly. This wrapping process is advantageous without the use of trichomes, and therefore, when the hair is dry or styling, it can be slipped off the accessory and does not get tangled.

  The air flow exiting the slot is substantially perpendicular to the slot 50, but is preferably angled toward the fluid inlet 20 by about 2.5 ° to 4.5 °. In this example, 3.5 ° was used. This air flow angle is provided by the combination of curved slot 50, vane 100 and structural vane 70. This allows the hair to flow down spirally toward the fluid inlet 20 and the curled hair may naturally leave the accessory 10 when the user removes the accessory 10 from the hair bundle or switches off the device. it can.

  FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the elongate body 12 along line BB of FIG. This cross-sectional view penetrates the vane 100 on each extension plate 54. As the position of each extension plate 54 is rotated relative to FIG. 4, it can be seen that the nature of the fluid outlet slot is helical in the longitudinal direction. At the point where the vane 100 on the extension plate 54 contacts the adjacent extension plate 54a, the air flow is restricted or stopped.

  FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view through the longitudinal axis of the accessory 10, which reveals the inner surface of the plurality of struts 62. The interior of the cold tip 32 is hollow to provide a relatively cool place so that the user can touch or grip the accessory. The gap between the bottom surface of the cold tip 32 and the second end 16 of the elongated body 12 also has the advantage of minimizing heat transfer to the cold tip 32 and allowing manufacturing tolerances between parts. is there.

  The cold tip 32 includes a handle 34 and an annular flange 36. The handle 34 is hollow and in this embodiment is filled with air to insulate the handle 34 from the hot fluid flowing in the accessory 10. The annular flange 36 has an annular recess 38 between the second end 16 of the elongated body 12 and the cold tip 32 that provides a circumferentially extending air gap 80 around the annular flange 36. The elongate body 12 has an outer wall 82 formed by the plate 50, and the annular flange 36 can be considered spaced from the outer wall 82. The gap 80 is sized sufficiently to be continuous around the annular flange 36 even when manufacturing tolerances are taken into account.

  In FIGS. 3 and 6, the unfolded shape of the elongated body 12 at the first end of the accessory is evident. Such a spread does not exist in all embodiments of the invention. The presence or absence of spread depends on the relative diameters of the accessory and the warm air hairdressing device or similar device to which the accessory is attached. If the diameter of the accessory is smaller than the diameter of the warm air hairdressing device or similar device, there will be a spread to minimize the turbulence and allow the device to change the diameter of the accessory. Specifically, such spreading is included in embodiments where the elongate body diameter is 30 mm, but not in embodiments where the elongate body diameter is 40 mm. This spread serves to initially attach the end of the hair to the first end of the accessory by functioning to suppress turbulence.

  The elongate body 12 converges from the first end 14 toward the second end 16. The diameter of the elongated body 12 decreases from the first end 14 to the point Y and is constant from the point Y to the second end 16. The purpose of convergence is to smoothly transition the elongated body 12 from the diameter at the fluid inlet 20 to the diameter at the second end 16. Any turbulence of air entering the accessory 10 is minimized, thereby reducing the pressure loss in the accessory 10. This has the advantage of encouraging the bundled hair tips to adhere to the outer surface of the accessory.

  The plan view of the exemplary accessory of FIG. 7 shows that the diameter of the collar 64 near the fluid inlet of the accessory is larger than the cold tip 32 at the distal end 30. The bottom view of the exemplary accessory of FIG. 8 shows the overlapping formation of each extension plate 54.

  The collar 64 has a plurality of functions. The collar 64 provides a physical barrier for the hair when the hair is wrapped around the accessory 10 so that the hair can be wound around the accessory 10 beyond the collar 64 or the device connected to the accessory 10 in the first place. Helps keep the hair on the accessory 10 by preventing it from wrapping around. Another function is to protect the air flow around the accessory 10. A continuous fluid passage 78 around the accessory 10 will entrain or inhale air from outside the slot 50. This entrained air does not necessarily tangent to the outer surface 54b of the extension plate 54, and thus may adversely affect the hair winding process. The collar 64 has a larger diameter than the first end 14 of the elongate body 12 and thus acts as a barrier to air entrained towards the accessory 10 over the entire surface of the device.

  FIG. 9 illustrates a preferred embodiment of the inner surface 42 of a single plate 40 having twelve vanes 100 located closest to the leading edge 42a. The vanes 100 are spaced apart in two main series of five vanes. On the trailing edge 42b of the plate 40 is visible a recess 44 adapted to receive a structural vane 70 located in the gap between a series of vanes. The vane 100 is positioned substantially perpendicular to the front edge 42a of the plate 40. In a preferred embodiment, the vane 100 located towards the upstream end of the accessory is positioned at an acute angle with respect to the leading edge 42a of the plate 40. The preferred length of the vane 100 is such that it substantially fills the slot 50 formed by the overlapping portion 84 provided between one extension plate 54 and an adjacent extension plate 54a.

  The shape of each vane 100 is an airfoil and is designed to direct the flow from the slot 50 from the first direction to the second direction. Air enters the fluid inlet parallel to the longitudinal axis XX of the accessory 10, which is the first direction. The air flowing in the accessory 10 naturally changes direction from this axis toward the slot 50, but is preferably a fluid inlet because the hair wraps well and the curl is easily removed from the accessory 10 as described above. A second flow direction that is slightly angled towards 20 results from the combined action of the shape of the vane 100 and the curvature of the slot 50 on the airflow.

  The vanes 100 can also be regularly spaced along the length of the plate 50, but this spacing is irregular and elongated to achieve a uniform flow from the slot 50 along the elongated body 12. Preferably, the vane 100 is further away at the first end 14 of the body 12 and closer at the second end 16.

  Also, because the volume and pressure of air flowing through the accessory 10 varies from the first end 14 to the second end 16 of the elongate body 12, the vane 100 has a first end of the elongate body 12. 14 gradually decreases from 14 to the second end 16. The angle of the vane 100 relative to the longitudinal axis XX also varies from the first end 14 to the second end 16 of the elongate body 12. This angle preferably increases from the first end 14 to the second end 16 of the elongated body 12 relative to the longitudinal axis XX of the accessory 10.

  FIG. 10 is a side view of the plate 40 showing the helical shape of each plate around the longitudinal axis. The amount of helical rotation within the plate 40 is not exclusive, but is a combination of features such as the number of plates, accessory diameter, vane shape, and desired fluid outflow angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the accessory. It is a function.

11 to 17 show a second embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, the same reference numerals are assigned to the components shown and described in connection with FIGS. In the second embodiment, the diameter of the accessory 150 is 40 mm. Accordingly, the diameter of the accessory 150 is larger than the diameter of the connection ring 68 and the fluid inlet 20 to the accessory 150. The cross-sectional area of the accessory 150 is larger than the cross-sectional area of the fluid inlet 20. The diameter d _{2 of the} accessory 150 is larger than the diameter d _f of the fluid inlet 20.

  Since air flowing into the accessory 150 increases in volume at the first end 14 of the elongated body 112 in the accessory, some of the air is between the connection ring 68 and the outer wall 182 of the accessory 150. Recirculate towards the shelf 160 to be formed. Accordingly, a portion of the air exhausted from the slot 50 flows toward the fluid inlet 20 unless the flow direction is corrected. To prevent this recirculation from affecting the direction of air flow from the slot 50, at least the first vane 170, which is the vane adjacent to the first end 14 of the elongated body 112 and the fluid inlet 20, is Reverse for vane 100.

  This vane has the function of maintaining the advantage of uniforming the flow volume from the slot 50 and the direction along the length of the slot 50, first, as in the above-described embodiment, and secondly, It has one of the same functions as the collar 64 of this embodiment, namely the function of keeping the hair on the accessory 150 by providing an air barrier at the first end 14 of the elongated body 112. In this second embodiment, where the accessory 150 has a larger diameter than the fluid inlet 20, the air barrier causes the collar 164 to have the same diameter as the outer wall 182. Since the accessory 150 has a larger surface area than the accessory 10 described above, the hair is more likely to adhere to the outer surface 182, so the problem of adverse effects from entrained flow toward the accessory 150 over the entire surface of the device is less obvious.

  The first vane 170 is airfoil and has a concave surface 172 and a convex surface 174. The vane 100 also has a concave surface 102 and a convex surface 104. The concave surface 102 of the vane 100 is directed toward the fluid inlet 20 to direct air exiting the slot 50 toward the fluid inlet 20, thereby smoothly guiding or directing the fluid in the second direction. The smooth transition reduces pressure loss, turbulence and noise in the accessory.

  In contrast, first vane 170 has convex surface 174 facing fluid inlet 20. This is because air recirculates toward the shelf 160, and thus the concave surface 172 of the first vane 170 is also directed toward the air flow, similar to the vane 100. The function is the same, the effect is the same, and what has changed is the direction of fluid flow.

  The first vane 170 and the vane 100 are adapted to change the direction of the fluid flowing through the attachment 150 from a first direction to a second direction exiting the slot 50. As described above, air enters the fluid inlet parallel to the longitudinal axis XX of the accessory 150, which is the first direction. Air flowing in the accessory 10 naturally turns from this axis toward the slot 50, and in this accessory 150, the air near the fluid inlet 20 turns more than necessary. As described above, the combined action of the shape of the first vane 170, vane 100 and the curvature of the slot 50 on the airflow to achieve an even flow along the length of the accessory 150, as described above. The angle is preferably slightly angled toward the fluid inlet 20 to create a second flow direction because the hair wraps well and the curl tends to detach from the accessory 10.

A further feature of the attachment 150 is that each strut 62 has a reinforcement. The first subassembly 100 is preferably injection molded as a single element. In the accessory 10, since the elongated body 12 extends toward the fluid inlet 20, there is a natural tapering shape toward the second end 16, and this shape is used during the manufacturing process to remove from the accessory 10. The draft angle required to remove the central mold is at least partially formed. In accessory 150, since the diameter d ₂ larger than the diameter d _f of the fluid inlet 20, undercut occurs during manufacture. For this reason, the accessory 150 has a locally thickened portion 162 of the strut 62 on the radially inner surface 162 a at the inlet end 86 of the overlapping portion 84.

  This locally thickened portion 162 can be thought of as a reinforcing rib, protrusion or ridge that extends along the entire length of the strut 62. The local wall portion 162 includes a chamfered or inclined surface 166 adjacent the fluid inlet 20 that guides fluid flowing from the connection ring 68 beyond the end of the local wall portion 162 into the accessory 150. .

  The curvature of the local thickened portion 162 further guides the flow beyond the trailing edge 62 b of the strut 62 to the overlapping portion 84 and the slot 50.

  In FIG. 18, the example of the warm air hairdressing apparatus 200 attached to the accessory 10 is shown. Hot air hairdressing apparatus 200 includes a generally tubular handle 220 having a fluid inlet 230 and a fluid outlet 240 at both ends. At the fluid inlet 230 of the handle, a series of openings 232 extend partially along and around the handle 220. The fan unit includes a fan and a motor inside (not shown). In use, the motor drives the fan and air is drawn along the fluid flow path that extends through the opening 232 of the fluid inlet 230 and the entire length of the handle 220. The fluid is optionally discharged from the warm air hairdressing device at the fluid outlet 240 after being heated by a heater (not shown). The fluid inlet 20 of the accessory 10 of the present invention is connected to a fluid outlet 240 of a warm air hairdressing device 200 or similar device and receives fluid drawn in by the action of a motor. Thereafter, the fluid is discharged from the accessory 10 through the slot 50. The device 200 can be connected to a power source via a power cable, or a battery can be housed in the handle 220.

  One skilled in the art will recognize that the manufacture and assembly of the present invention can be accomplished in many different ways. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, a possible assembly subsection is shown as an elongate body 12 structure having six elongate support struts, six separate plates, and a cold tip. However, the elongate body 12 can be constructed with a plurality of further assembled subsections as well. In another embodiment of the invention, the elongate body 12 includes three fixation plates, and an additional three separate plates can be attached to the cage structure. It is apparent that similar manufacturing and assembly methods can be used regardless of the number of plates shown in the embodiments.

  The preferred method of manufacturing the accessories 10, 150 is by injection molding, but this is not essential to the inventive concept and those skilled in the art will recognize suitable alternatives.

  The diameter of the accessory 10, 150 may be the same as or different from the diameter of the device to which it is attached. For example, some of the inventive features described herein, such as cold tip spacing, the use of different subassemblies and vanes, can be applied independently of diameter.

  When the diameter of the accessory is shown as different from the diameter of the device to which it is attached, the inner diameter and the outer diameter are generally different.

  Although the vanes 100 and 170 are shown as forming part of the plate 40, they can also be formed as part of the strut 62. Although the recess 44 adapted to receive the structural vane 70 is shown connected to the longitudinal flange 48, they can also be separated.

  Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to a hot hairstyling brush, the present invention is applicable to any device including a hair dryer that draws fluid and directs the fluid to flow out of the device.

  The device can be used with or without a heater, and has a drying effect on the action of fluid flowing out at high speed.

  In general, the fluid flowing in the device is air, but it may be a combination of several types or one type of gas, which may affect the performance of the device, or the object such as hair to which the output is directed and its styling. Additives that improve can also be included. Examples of such additives include, but are not limited to, hair sprays and cosmetic liquids.

  The present invention is not limited to the detailed description given above. Variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

40 Plate 44 Depression 46 Projection 48 Longitudinal Flange 100 Vane 102 Concave Surface of Vane 104 Convex Surface of Vane 170 First Vane 172 Concave Surface of First Vane 174 Convex Surface of First Vane

Claims (25)

An accessory for a hair care device,
A fluid inlet; a fluid outlet; a fluid channel extending between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet; and first and second vanes directing fluid in the fluid channel to the fluid outlet. With a body,
The body includes at least two extension plates;
The fluid outlet includes a slot defined by an overlap between the at least two extension plates;
The first vane and the second vane are curved and located within the overlap between the at least two extension plates;
The first vane and the second vane curve in opposite directions;
Accessories characterized by that.   The fluid inlet has a first cross-sectional area, the main body includes an outer wall, the outer wall of the main body includes a second cross-sectional area, and the second cross-sectional area is greater than the first cross-sectional area. The accessory of claim 1, which is also larger.   The accessory of claim 2, wherein the fluid inlet has a diameter df, the accessory has a diameter d2, and d2 is greater than df.   4. An accessory according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the body is elongated and extends along an axis.   The accessory of claim 4, wherein the body has a first end and a second end, and the fluid inlet is at the first end.   The accessory of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the first vane is adjacent to the fluid inlet.   The accessory according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the first vane has a convex surface, the convex surface facing the fluid inlet.   The accessory of claim 7, wherein the second vane has a concave surface, the concave surface facing the fluid inlet.   The accessory according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the first vane and the second vane are airfoils.   10. An accessory according to any preceding claim, wherein the fluid outlet extends along an axis between the first end and the second end.   The accessory of claim 10, wherein the second vane includes a plurality of vanes spaced along the extension plate.   The accessory of claim 11, wherein the plurality of vanes are irregularly spaced along the extension plate.   The accessory of claim 11 or 12, wherein the plurality of vanes are angled with respect to the axis of the body.   The accessory of claim 13, wherein the angle of at least some of the plurality of vanes is different from adjacent vanes.   The accessory of claim 14, wherein an angle of the plurality of vanes with respect to the axis increases toward the second end.   The accessory of any one of claims 11 to 15, wherein a size of the plurality of vanes varies along the extension plate.   The accessory of claim 16, wherein each of the plurality of vanes has the same shape.   18. An accessory according to any one of claims 11 to 17, wherein the at least one vane is substantially the same length as the overlap between the at least two extension plates.   19. An accessory according to any preceding claim, wherein the slot is curved with respect to the axis of the body.   The accessory of claim 19, wherein each extension plate is formed of a strut and a plate.   21. The accessory of claim 20, wherein the slot is formed of struts and plates from adjacent extension plates.   The accessory of claim 21, further comprising at least one structural vane.   23. The accessory of claim 22, wherein the at least one structural vane connects a strut and an adjacent strut.   24. The accessory of claim 22 or 23, wherein the at least one structural vane connects the strut and the plate.   The accessory according to any one of claims 1 to 24, wherein the hair care device is a warm air hair styling device.