JP7846970B2 - Hair styling device and related method - Google Patents

Description

(Priority)
This application claims priority as a continuation-in-part application of U.S. Patent Application No. 16/943,159, filed on 30 July 2020 and currently pending. Application No. 16/943,159 is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. Patent Application No. 16/111,970, filed on 24 August 2018 and currently pending, which is a reissue application of U.S. Patent Application No. 15/076,065, filed on 21 March 2016 and granted U.S. Patent No. 10,010,147 on 3 July 2018, which is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. Patent Application No. 14/980,280, filed on 28 December 2015 and granted U.S. Patent No. 10,117,488 on 6 November 2018, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

This disclosure generally relates to hair styling devices, and more specifically to hair curling devices and related methods.

Heated styling irons (such as curling irons) are used to shape hair into a wide variety of styles, including curling hair to create curls that don't occur naturally, or straightening hair to remove kinks or curls. Circular or semi-circular curls can be created by wrapping hair around the outer surface of a heated, cylindrical curling iron.

Conventional curling irons include a cylindrical curling surface with a clamping member that fits around a portion of the surface. During use, the curling mandrel may be heated. A clump of hair is clamped against the surface by the clamping member and curled by rotating the surface. The heat applied to the surface can alter the hair's texture to curl it. After a predetermined time, the clamping member is removed from the surface, releasing the curled hair. A drawback of this clamp configuration is the uneven distribution of hair under the clamp. Often, the ends of the hair slip out from under the clamp or otherwise. Another drawback is that hair that could have been combed before curling becomes bundled again. Typically, curling with a clamp is a two-handed operation, which can strain the user's wrists.

Some conventional devices include a motor-heated surface that automatically wraps hair around. However, these electric devices do not provide a means to maintain hair that has been pre-combed. For example, many of these electric devices include a clamp to reversibly secure the hair to the heated surface at the start of the curling process. However, the user must move the electrically heated curling iron toward the scalp and/or face as the barrel rotates.

Conventional devices without clamps are inefficient at holding hair at the correct angle or in the correct amount, as they cannot deliver enough heat to the hair to affect the curl.

There is a need in the art for a system that can simplify hair curling. There is also a need for a system and method to create more natural and evenly curled hair while the hair is in a state where it can be combed. This system and method should allow for simultaneous curling and combing of hair with one hand, particularly without the clamps used in conventional systems.

The object of this invention is to provide a device and method for curling hair that overcomes the shortcomings of the current state of the art.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a device and method for simultaneously curling and detangling hair. A feature of the present invention is that there is no clamp, or no need, for curling hair around a heated cylindrical surface. Thus, the heating surface of the device is not covered by a clamp or any other structure, and therefore the entire heating surface is fully exposed and accessible. An advantage of the present invention is that any amount of hair or any thickness of hair can be curled and detangled simultaneously, with one-handed operation. Another advantage is that it prevents hair from tangling.

A further object of the present invention is to provide a device for more efficient hair styling. A feature of the present invention is that the comb teeth extend toward the hair styling surface without contacting it. Another feature is the incorporation of inwardly extending thermally conductive or non-conductive blades, which may be rigid or reversibly deformable (i.e., made of a non-rigid material). An advantage of the present invention is that the inwardly extending comb and blades press against the hair styling surface at a certain time and pressure to allow heat from the hair styling surface to be transferred to the hair.

A further object of the present invention is to provide a device and method for combining several hair styling operations into a single system. A feature of the present invention is that the elongated rotating surface of the device is spatially intimate with one or more axially extending members, each having a first proximal end attached to the rotating plate and a second distal end that may or may not be in contact with the surface. Another feature of the present invention is that a comb or blade can be superimposed on each of the one or more axially extending members. The advantage of the present invention is that, without requiring clamps as found in prior art systems, everything can be done with one hand, simultaneously, to detangle, curl, and heat the hair. As a result, styling time is reduced, and therefore, the hair becomes healthier.

The object of the present invention is to provide a versatile, handheld device for curling and otherwise styling hair. The device features a heated, longitudinally extending barrel that can be stationary or rotatable. An advantage of the present invention is that radially projecting members, such as combs and other protrusions, are detachably positioned at intervals from each other and from the barrel, allowing for user customization without interference. This is particularly useful when styling hair on the forehead or "bangs" while the device is held horizontally.

In short, a hair styling device is provided, comprising: a barrel defining a hair styling surface and a central axis; a heating element thermally communicating with the barrel for heating the barrel to be heated; and a rotating member positioned at the end of the hair styling surface and configured to rotate around the longitudinal axis of the barrel to be heated. The rotating member comprises a rotating plate surrounding the bottom of the barrel to be heated (so as to be in close spatial relationship with the proximal end of the barrel) and a tab extending from the rotating plate along the longitudinal length of the hair styling surface for a length shorter than the entire longitudinal length of the hair styling surface. Alternatively, the tab may be detachably attached to a sleeve/collar of the rotating member or molded integrally with it. The rotating member further comprises a comb member detachably attached to the tab (e.g., slidably received along the longitudinal axis of the tab) and defining a plurality of comb teeth arranged along the surface extending longitudinally of the hair styling surface.

Furthermore, a method for curling hair is provided, comprising the steps of supplying a rotating member comprising: a heated barrel defining a hair styling surface and a comb extending axially, the heated barrel engaging hair with the comb and rotating the central axis of the heated barrel; a heating element for heating the heated barrel; a rotating member positioned at the end of the hair styling surface and configured to rotate around the longitudinal axis of the heated barrel, the rotating member comprising a rotating plate surrounding the bottom of the heated barrel, and a tab extending from the rotating plate along the longitudinal length of the hair styling surface for a length shorter than the entire longitudinal length of the hair styling surface, the rotating member comprising a comb member attached to the tab and a plurality of comb teeth arranged along the longitudinal length of the hair styling surface; positioning the free end of the hair styling surface near the user's head; positioning hair attached to the user's head onto the rotating member; and imparting curls to the hair by wrapping the held hair around the hair styling surface and rotating the rotating member over the hair styling surface to wrap the hair around the hair styling surface.

The present invention, along with the above and other objects and advantages, will be best understood from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments of the invention shown in the accompanying drawings.

A side view of a hair curling device having a rotating member, according to the features of the present invention, is shown. This is a cutout diagram along line B-B in Figure 1A. This is a detailed diagram of the barrel and collar rotation mechanism according to the features of one embodiment of the present invention. The diagram shows the line 2-2 in Figure 1. This is a detailed diagram of the directional dial operating mechanism according to the features of the present invention. An exemplary side view of a rotating member is shown; This shows the comb arrangement mechanism according to the features of the present invention. This shows another comb arrangement mechanism according to the features of the present invention. This invention illustrates a mechanism that enables the movement of the comb, as described in the features of this invention. The comb is characterized by its proximal end, which is hinged to the sleeve at the proximal end of the barrel base. This diagram follows line 4-4 in Figure 3A. The device of the present invention is shown alongside the user's head. This is a magnified view of hair enclosed within the device of the present invention, as described in the features of the present invention. This shows a fully assembled color according to the features of the present invention. This is a color isometric view used in the device of the present invention. This is an isometric view of the fin, intended for use in conjunction with the color illustration in Figure 7B. This is an isometric view of a tab for securing a comb used in the device of the present invention. This is an isometric view of a comb used in the device of the present invention. This is a side view of an alternative embodiment of the device. This is a top view of an alternative embodiment. This is a rotated side view of an alternative embodiment. This is an isometric view of an alternative embodiment. This is a rotational isometric view of an alternative embodiment.

The above summary and the following detailed description of specific embodiments of the present invention will be better understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

As used herein, elements or steps described in the singular form and with “one (a or an)” should be understood not to exclude the plural form of that element or step unless otherwise explicitly stated. Furthermore, references to “one embodiment” of the present invention are not intended to be construed as excluding the existence of additional embodiments incorporating the described features. Also, unless otherwise explicitly stated, embodiments “comprising” or “having” one or more elements having a particular characteristic may include additional elements that do not possess that characteristic.

The present invention provides a hair curling device that includes a rotating member configured to wrap hair around a generally stationary heated barrel. Other embodiments of the present invention include the use of a rotating heated barrel.

The distinguishing feature of this invention is that the hair styling device comprises a rotating member having a tab or projection extending in the axial direction, and a comb attached to the tab, having a plurality of teeth arranged along the longitudinal axis α of the hair styling surface, wherein the teeth extend in a direction at an angle φ from the longitudinal axis α. This allows the hair to be styled more evenly along the tab.

Generally, hair comes into contact with an elongated, stationary or rotating member. The distal end of this member terminates with at least one longitudinally extending tab or projection. If there are two or more projections, they are spaced apart from each other along an arc defining the distal circumference of the rotating member. The projections may be spaced symmetrically from each other to capture approximately equal amounts of hair. This allows the hair to wrap more uniformly around the surface of the heated barrel, as described below. However, if the tabs are asymmetrically arranged, the hair will still be captured or wrapped around. The aforementioned tabs are positioned radially from the barrel to provide space between the tab and the hair styling surface, allowing the captured hair to be retained and preventing the hair from being compressed and trapped against the surface for excessively long periods. This open configuration also offers the option of stacking combs, fluid-filled micro-applicators on one or more tabs (compared, for example, to clamp curlers).

Figure 1A shows an elevation view of an exemplary hair curling device having a rotating member for curling hair around a heated barrel. (As described below, the barrel may or may not be rotating.) Figure 2 shows a top view of the exemplary hair curling device shown in Figure 1A. Figure 3A shows a side view of the exemplary rotating member. Figure 4 shows the exemplary rotating member shown in Figure 3, viewed from line 4-4.

As shown in Figure 1A, the hair styling (e.g., curling) device or apparatus 100 includes a heated cylindrical surface, such as a substantially cylindrical barrel 102. The first proximal end 109 of the barrel is connected to the distal end 111 of the housing 104 (e.g., a handle). The proximal end of the housing 104 terminates with a power cord 120 or, in the case of a cordless version of the device, with a charging port. The longitudinal axis of the barrel is coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the housing.

The barrel 102 defines a hair styling surface 132, which, in one embodiment, does not rotate relative to the handle 104 (e.g., is not rotatably coupled). Rather, the surface 132 provides a fixed, cylindrical surface around which hair can be wrapped and heated to create curls. The barrel 102 generally defines the aforementioned first proximal end 109 (indicated by dashed lines), a second distal end terminating within the adiabatic tip 122, and a longitudinally extending surface between the proximal and distal ends.

The barrel 102 typically includes a heating element 103 (e.g., a ceramic heating element), schematically shown by dashed lines in Figure 1, which is configured to heat at least a portion of the barrel 102, such as the hair styling surface 132 above it, to curl the user's hair. While the heating element 103 is illustrated as being positioned approximately midway between the first and second ends of the barrel, it may also be enclosed by the barrel 102 so as to be positioned beneath the barrel surface 132. This position prevents the heating element from physically contacting the hair or scalp, thus preventing overheating of these structures. In such a configuration, the surface 132 is heated by the heating element 103 via heat conduction.

The heating selection switch 118 (shown in Figure 2) can be positioned along the handle, allowing the device to be turned on or off with one hand, and is configured to select one of several different heating settings, such as a high-temperature setting and a low-temperature setting. In the illustrated embodiment, the heating selection switch 118 is positioned proximal to the distal end 111 of the handle.

The barrel 102 is typically formed from a material that is both thermally conductive and elastic, such as a metal selected from the group consisting of aluminum, iron, steel, silver, their alloys, and combinations thereof. The thermally conductive yet elastic material is surrounded (e.g., coated or wrapped) with a material that has lower thermal conductivity than the barrel (e.g., a thermally non-conductive material) to prevent or minimize hair damage. Such a low-thermal-conductivity material may be a non-metallic material selected from the group consisting of ceramics, glass, stone (e.g., tourmaline), and combinations thereof.

The barrel 102 can be formed to various widths (e.g., diameters) based on the user's desired intended curl. In some embodiments, the barrel 102 may have a cross-section or a diameter ranging from about 0.375 inches to about 2.5 inches. Exemplary diameters range from about 0.5 inches to about 1.5 inches. In the illustrated example, the barrel 102 has a diameter of about 1 inch.

The aforementioned adiabatic cooling tip 122 is positioned at the free, exposed second distal end of the barrel 102. In some embodiments, the free distal end of the barrel is positioned opposite the handle. The cooling tip 122 can help reduce the possibility of the user being burned by the barrel 102, for example, by creating a physical barrier between the end of the barrel 102 and the user's head.

The free exposed end of a styling device with an exposed distal end of a barrel typically lacks a hair-snagging housing or enclosure. That is, the free end of the barrel is typically unenclosed and open to the surrounding environment, resulting in hair being more easily captured and wrapped around the hair styling surface. The resulting curled hair can then be more easily slid towards the distal end of the device for removal. Otherwise, such a housing or enclosure could create an obstruction that makes it more difficult for the user to easily remove the hair from the styling device. For example, hair may wrap around one or more surfaces within any range created by such an enclosure.

Figures 1A and 1B show an embodiment of the device, in which the entire tip 122 and at least the distal half of the barrel 102 extend axially beyond the distal end of any comb 134 or tab 142 circumferentially arranged around the proximal end of the barrel.

In some embodiments, at least a portion of the cooling tip has a width (e.g., diameter) greater than that of the barrel 102, which helps prevent the user from accidentally positioning the side of the barrel 102 against their head. The distal end of the larger diameter region may be terminated with a radially extending flange, plate, wall, or similar barrier (not shown) to prevent hair from sliding off the end of the barrel.

The sleeve 106 is positioned between the first proximal end 109 of the barrel and the second distal end 111 of the handle 104. The sleeve 106 can connect the handle 104 and the barrel 102 to each other, and is therefore rotatable relative to the hairstyling surface 132 of the barrel 102, and typically also relative to the handle 104. Thus, the rotating member is in rotational communication with the barrel and the handle.

In addition, the barrel 102 may rotate instead of the sleeve, or it may rotate in conjunction with the sleeve 106. Furthermore, the barrel 102 may rotate at the same speed as the sleeve 106 (e.g., RPM), or at a different speed. For example, the barrel rotation speed may be slightly lower than the sleeve speed to give the hair a gentler curl, depending on the user's preference.

As schematically shown in Figures 1A and 1B, the drive motor 107, which can be mounted on the handle 104 (for example, on the motor holding chassis), is configured to rotate the sleeve 106 relative to the handle 104 and the barrel 102. Therefore, both the handle and the barrel remain stationary. Alternatively, the drive motor rotates the barrel 102 relative to the sleeve 106.

Figure 1C is a detail view of the gear assembly for both the barrel 102 and the collar. The motor 107 comprises an axially extending shaft 113 having a proximal end 115 attached to the motor and a distal end 117 terminating within the barrel rotator gear 119. A sleeve rotator gear 121 is positioned midway between the proximal end 115 and the distal end 117, so that the barrel rotator gear 119 and the sleeve rotator gear 121 are coaxial with each other and generally aligned along the longitudinal axis of the device. The barrel rotator gear 119 may have a smaller diameter than the sleeve rotator gear 121 to impart a slower barrel rotation speed compared to the sleeve rotation speed. Alternatively or additionally, the RPM is controlled by the gear ratio and number of teeth of the barrel rotator gear 119 and the sleeve rotator gear 121, respectively.

The proximal end of barrel 102 defines a first gear surface 123 adapted to mating with the barrel rotating gear. Figure 1C shows the gear surface located inside barrel 107, along the periphery of the opposing surface. Similarly, the opposing surface inside sleeve 106 defines a second gear surface 125 adapted to mating with sleeve rotating gear 121.

The drive motor 107 is typically an electric motor (e.g., an AC or DC electric motor). Electricity can be supplied to the drive motor using a rotatable power cord (e.g., a swivel power cord) 120 communicating with the proximal end (i.e., the heel end) of the handle. As shown in Figure 2A, the direction switches 114 and 116 can rotate the motor (and therefore the rotating member) clockwise or counterclockwise.

For example, as shown in Figure 2A, when the directional switch 114 is toggled by the user, it can rotate the sleeve 106 and/or the heated barrel 102 in the toggle direction, which is upward in the drawing. Conversely, when toggled downward, the directional switch 116 may rotate the sleeve 106 and/or the heated barrel downward. When released, the switch can be biased to neutral so that no rotation occurs unless the switch is continuously toggled by the user.

Figure 2B is a detailed diagram of the gear mechanism associated with the direction switches 114 and 116. The gears in this mechanism, like other gear mechanisms, are actuated by a motor shaft 113 rotated by a motor 107. Thus, a single motor shaft 113, and therefore a single motor, actsuates all the gears associated with this device.

Located below the direction switches 114 and 116 is the switch's gear mechanism, comprising a curl dial rotating gear 127 and an internal gear 129 for the curl dial. The rotating gear 127 has multiple radially extending teeth arranged in a circular pattern to form a disc. The internal gear 129 is configured to engage and receive teeth such that the internal gear has an inwardly facing cylindrical surface having a topography of the gear teeth.

An electrical circuit (e.g., a printed circuit board) can be placed within the handle or another component to distribute electrical signals from various switches to the motor 107 and heating element 103.

The handle 104 is generally depicted as a cylindrical member formed in line with the heated barrel 102, but other configurations are possible. For example, in some embodiments, the handle may be a pistol grip-like handle positioned at an angle (e.g., substantially perpendicular) to the heated barrel.

The hair curling device 100 may include any of various drive system components (e.g., a gear system or transmission device) to convert the rotation of the motor into rotation of the sleeve 106, the barrel 102, or a combination thereof. The drive motor (including any drive system components) can be configured to rotate the rotating member 106 at any of a variety of suitable speeds. For example, the drive motor can rotate the sleeve 106 at approximately 10 rpm to approximately 300 rpm (and within that range, e.g., approximately 20 rpm to approximately 100 rpm, or approximately 50 rpm to approximately 100 rpm). Bearing elements can be placed between the sleeve 106 and the barrel 102 or handle 104 to help reduce and suppress rotational friction, thereby allowing the sleeve 106 to rotate more easily relative to the barrel 102.

The sleeve 106 is typically configured to rotate relative to the barrel 102 (for example, around the hair styling surface) to receive hair (for example, gather, grasp, hold, trap, grasp, pick up, or otherwise take in) and wrap the hair around the heated barrel 102 so that it curls as it rotates. As shown in Figure 4, the rotating member 106 includes a rotating plate 130 and a hair-holding tab 110, the hair-holding tab 110 extending axially from the rotating plate 130 substantially longitudinally along the hair styling surface 132 of the heated barrel 102. As the rotating member 106 rotates around the barrel 102, the holding tab 110 catches the hair, biasing the hair toward the barrel 102, or guiding the hair around the barrel 102 so that it spirals around the barrel rather than simply twisting or tangling. The tab may or may not extend along the entire length of the hair styling surface 132. In some embodiments, the tab 110 may have a length extending from the rotating plate 130 along the hair styling surface from about 0.1 inches to about 2 inches.

(Details of the comb)
As shown in Figure 3A, the comb 134 further includes a comb member 134 that is attached to the tab 110 and extends axially along the substantial length of the tab 110. In some embodiments, the comb member 134 may be reversibly attached to the tab 110 so as to be removably received by the tab so as to cover the distal portion of the tab for easy application and removal by the user. For example, the longitudinally extending base surface of the comb may be adapted to slidably communicate with the longitudinally extending surface of the tab, and the comb base defines a cavity having a cross-section slightly larger than the cross-section of the comb for friction fitting engagement. Other reversible attachment means may be a snap-fit configuration.

The tab 110 is radially displaced from the hairstyling surface to provide space for other components, such as the comb member 134. In some embodiments, the comb member 134 may extend substantially along the entire length of the tab 110. In some other embodiments, the comb member 134 may extend along a portion of the tab 110, but may be shorter than the tab, for example, two-thirds of the entire length of the tab 110.

As shown in the figure, the comb 134 includes a plurality of comb teeth 136 arranged along the length of the hair styling surface and extending at an angle φ with respect to the longitudinal axis of the comb. The angle φ is generally in the range of 10° to 170°, for example, between 45° and 135°, and even about 90°. Generally, the teeth 136 typically extend toward the hair styling surface 132 while remaining spaced apart from it, providing adequate space between the comb member 134 and the barrel 102 for hair to settle.

The lengths of the comb teeth may differ. Referring to Figure 3B, "d" defines the distance between the comb member and the hair styling surface. "L" specifies the length of the teeth. The range of individual tooth lengths is defined as "0 < L < d," and as a result, during use, while the hair is wrapped around the barrel, the hair is present in the gap (i.e., d-L) between the distal end of each tooth and the hair styling surface. A larger gap allows more hair to enter the gap more easily. In this way, the user can save time styling their hair.

In some embodiments, the lengths of some of the comb teeth near the proximal end 140 of the comb member 134 (for example, teeth 1, 2, and 3 in Figure 3B) may be the same to create a uniform curl.

The space between the comb member and the barrel accommodates the hair for styling, depending on the length of the comb teeth. Comb teeth of different lengths can be used depending on the thickness and length of the hair. For example, longer teeth can be used when processing thinner hair or hair of a smaller volume. The inventors envision that a longer-toothed comb can be used when curling only the ends of the hair. Shorter teeth can be used when working with thicker hair.

The comb teeth 136 increase friction with the hair, allowing it to easily capture the hair. The comb teeth 136 also form several partitions along the length of the hair styling surface, thus preventing the hair from moving along the length of the surface. Therefore, the hair can be evenly distributed. The comb teeth 136 extending toward the hair styling surface 132 also press the hair against the surface 132. Therefore, heat can be effectively transferred from the hair styling surface to the hair.

The comb defines a first proximal end 140 and a second distal end 141. As shown in the figure, the length of each comb tooth 136 gradually increases from the distal end 141 of the comb member 134 toward the proximal end or bottom 140 of the comb member 134. This makes the space between the comb member 134 and the hair styling surface 132 larger at the distal end 141 than at the bottom 140. This makes it easier for the user to position a bundle of hair from the distal end 141 into that space. This also makes it easier for the tab to grasp the hair, press the hair against the hair styling surface 132, and wrap the hair around it. In other embodiments, the comb teeth may have a constant length. In yet another embodiment, the comb teeth may have other forms of varying lengths. For example, the central teeth may be longer than the teeth at either end. In other examples, the tips of the teeth may form a wavy contour.

In some embodiments, the comb teeth have varying lengths such that at least one tooth leaves a space between its tip and the styling surface, while at least one other tooth contacts the styling surface. In this case, the comb teeth are made of a material with some degree of elasticity, such as silicone, rubber, or plastic. The teeth, especially the longer teeth that contact the surface, deform and therefore exert a force that presses the hair against the hair styling surface. In yet another embodiment, all teeth may extend in a close spatial relationship with the styling surface (but without contacting the surface), or they may contact the styling surface to apply a greater force to the hair against the styling surface.

As shown in the figure, the comb member 134 comprises a single row of comb teeth 136 arranged along the length of the hair styling surface 132. In some embodiments, the comb member 134 may comprise two or more rows of comb teeth. For example, the comb may have multiple rows of teeth, such as two, three, or four rows. The multiple rows may be arranged to define the brush. In yet another embodiment, the comb member 134 may comprise multiple comb teeth that do not necessarily align with each other in terms of either the length or width of the tab. Furthermore, the teeth do not necessarily align straight and can define a curvature along the length of the comb. This allows the user to impart different shapes to the hair wrapped around the barrel. Thus, different comb configurations, defined by deviations along the longitudinal axis of the comb, are part of the styling device.

In some embodiments, the comb teeth can extend from the tab 110 not inward, but rather away from the hair styling surface 132. For example, as shown in Figure 3C, an additional comb tooth 137 overlapping the tab can extend radially away from the hair styling surface, such that the tab is positioned between the teeth 136 that initially extend inward and the additional teeth 137. In this example, the comb member 132 can still have hair that is more evenly distributed along the length of the hair styling surface 132.

(Blade details)
The present invention facilitates the styling of small or large clumps of hair. At least one of the axially extending protruding members of the device may be the same length as, longer than, or shorter than the tab. These additional axially extending members may support an inwardly oriented blade or fin 144, which is adapted to capture, contact, or otherwise engage small clumps of hair around the hair styling surface and to press the hair against the hair styling surface.

Figure 3A further shows such a blade or fin 144 facing and therefore opposite the surface of the heated barrel 102. As will be described in more detail below, the blade can extend along the length of the heated barrel 102 and define a straight, continuous distal edge. Alternatively, a fin may act on a meandering surface, with the longitudinally extending portion of the fin being convex and the adjacent portion concave. When two or more meandering blades are used, these blades are mounted so as to be aligned with each other so that the concave portions align along the radial arc of the curling surface. Similarly, the convex portions may be aligned with each other. This can be useful in giving the hair one or more waves.

Figure 3D shows a mechanism that allows the comb 134 to slide towards (i.e., inward) the heated barrel 10, or to slide away (radially) from the heated barrel 102. (This figure and the figure in Figure 3E show the device rotated 180 degrees around its longitudinal axis relative to the figures in Figures 3A-3C.) In one embodiment, only the comb moves relative to the tab 110. In this configuration, one or more springs 135 are positioned between the comb and the tab. As more hair is collected between the comb and the styling surface 102, the springs 135 are compressed, making way for more hair. As the comb exits the space between the distal tip of the comb and the surface 102, the springs depressurize, propelling the comb forward toward the surface 102. In another embodiment, both the comb and the tab move.

The comb depicted in Figure 3D is spring-biased toward the heated barrel via a spring 135. Generally, the spring is positioned perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the comb. The spring 135 is shown close to the base of the comb, with its first end radially biased and in contact with the base. Therefore, the second end of the spring is inwardly biased and in contact with a surface that is immovable relative to the base of the comb.

Furthermore, the comb 134 is not physically attached to the rotating plate 130; only the comb moves radially or inward.

Figure 3E shows a comb characterized by its proximal end, which is hinged to a sleeve near the base of the barrel. A torsion spring 167 is depicted, biasing the comb in a position approximately parallel to the longitudinal axis α of the barrel. Thus, similar to the wire spring 135 shown in Figure 3D, the torsion spring 167 is positioned near the base of the barrel 103. The first end of the spring is embedded in or otherwise attached to the base or proximal end of the comb 134, while the second end of the spring is attached to a stationary structural support surrounding the proximal end of the barrel 102.

A torsion spring is positioned at the bottom of the comb. When a large bundle of hair is wrapped around the barrel, the comb tilts at an angle relative to the inside of the tab, holding the bundle of hair. When the user finishes styling their hair, the comb returns to its original position due to the restorative force of the torsion spring. This feature provides a means to eliminate the need for the user to pull the comb back with their free hand. Rather, hair styling can be initiated in the usual way, where the bundle of hair either pushes against the comb or moves the comb. In another embodiment, the comb is attached to the tab and tilted together at an angle.

As shown in Figure 4, the rotating member 106 further comprises two protruding members 142 extending from the rotating plate 130 along the longitudinal axis α of the hair styling surface 132. Each of the protruding members 142 can support the aforementioned blade 144 extending inward along the length of the hair styling surface 132, such that their tips face the hair styling surface 132. (The protruding members 142 can also capture hair and guide it toward and around the barrel 102, thus helping the hair spiral around the barrel rather than simply twisting or tangling.) The blade 144 further presses the hair toward and around the barrel 102. The blade 144 is made from a reversibly deformable material (i.e., a non-rigid or semi-rigid material) that has some degree of heat resistance and flexibility, such as silicone, rubber, or plastic. Therefore, the blade 144 allows a certain range of hair volume to spiral around the barrel. For example, the blade 144 can bend more easily when there is more hair between the protruding member 142 and the hair styling surface 132. This flexibility allows the blade 144 to press the hair against the hair styling surface 132 with elastic force. This heat can be transferred more efficiently from the hair styling surface 132 onto the hair. In some cases, the elastic blade 144 may protrude to contact the hair styling surface 132 in order to press the hair more firmly against the hair styling surface 132. In some embodiments, the collar 106 may have one or more protruding members. (The protruding member 142 extends from the sleeve/collar 106). In some embodiments, at least one of the protruding members does not support the blade. In other embodiments, the blade 144 can be combined with the comb 134.

As shown in the figure, the protruding member 142 is typically shorter than the tab 110. A shorter protruding member 142 is more efficient at capturing smaller hair bundles. In some embodiments, the protruding member 142 can have a length of one-third to two-thirds the length of the tab 110. In some other embodiments, the protruding member 142 has a length substantially equal to or longer than the length of the tab 110.

The protruding members 142 and tabs 110 are evenly distributed along the circumferential direction of the hair styling surface 132. If two protruding members 142 are provided, they are spaced apart from each other at an angle between approximately 10° and 270°, and within that range, for example, at an angle between 30° and 180°, for example, approximately 120°. Each of the protruding members 142 is spaced 120° away from the tabs 110. Therefore, the two protruding members 142 and tabs 110 are spaced apart from each other and do not interfere with each other. In some other embodiments, the protruding members and tabs can be unevenly distributed.

As described above, the rotating sleeve 106 includes one or more hair-holding elements arranged around the peripheral area of the rotating plate. The holding elements capture the hair as the rotating member rotates around it, and further enable the user to use the device with one hand.

The retaining element may protrude from the sleeve or collar 106. The hair retaining element is configured to receive the user's hair so that it can be wrapped around the styling surface to curl the hair. However, the rotating member may further include a radially extending ridge 146 (Figure 3A), which protrudes from the rotating plate away from the hair styling surface and extends along the longitudinal length of the hair styling surface. As shown, the rotating member 106 includes one or more hair retaining elements, such as the radially extending ridge 146, configured to receive the user's hair (e.g., one or more strands of hair), and as a result, the hair can be wrapped around the styling surface of the heated barrel 102 to curl. Thus, the ridge is a hair retaining element.

Figures 3 and 4 depict six ridges 146 distributed circumferentially around the peripheral region of the rotating member 106; however, the number of ridges employed may be fewer or more. The ridges 146 are shown integrally molded with the sleeve 106, but alternatively, they may be detachably attached to the sleeve. The ridges 146 extend along the length of the surfaces of collars 1-6 and project radially from the outer peripheral surface of the rotating member 106. The ridges may form pairs, in which case the space may be located between adjacent ridges forming the pair. This first space has a smaller arc length than the space between the pair of ridges.

In one embodiment of the present invention, ridges exist in pairs to provide means for capturing hair in both directions (e.g., clockwise and counterclockwise). When the rotary dial rotates clockwise, hair is captured by the first ridge (R1) in a designated square area. In the other direction, the opposite occurs, and hair is captured in an area designated by an ellipse. The first space has an arc length smaller or larger than the space between the pair of ridges. Note that if a single ridge has sufficient area, with appropriate sizes on both sides, to capture hair in both directions, then two or more ridges are not necessary.

The ridges 146 allow the user to hold and wrap the hair around the barrel 102 with a more uniform and even distribution. For example, the user can lightly grip the device's handle 104, while the distal portion of the hair is lightly held between the handle and the user's hand. The user positions the proximal portion of the hair between the ridges before curling.

As shown in the figure, each pair of ridges 146 is positioned between adjacent protruding members 142 and between the protruding members 142 and the tab 110. Thus, the three pairs of ridges 146 are distributed substantially evenly around the rotating member. The spacing between adjacent ridges 146 creates recess-like areas where hair can lie and be held. In some other embodiments, the ridges 146 can simply be evenly distributed around the rotating member.

The retaining element formed along the rotating member may include any of various types of features capable of capturing or gathering one or more strands of hair. For example, the retaining element may include one or more hooks, recesses (e.g., semicircular holes or other recesses), protrusions (e.g., knobs, pins, bristles, bosses), or any suitable combination of other suitable elements, or any other suitable elements.

The rotating member 106, along with the ridge 146, is typically spaced longitudinally from the hair styling surface of the barrel, proximal to the handle 104, and therefore at the proximal end 109 of the barrel 102. That is, the hair styling surface can be positioned relative to the rotating member 106 at the free exposed end of the hair styling device. This configuration allows the user to position the free end of the curling device toward their head so that the rotating member can collect the user's hair and wrap the free end of the hair around the heated barrel 102. This allows the hair to be collected using the rotating member and wrapped around the proximal end of the hair styling surface, and therefore around the free end or the end opposite the distal end of the hair styling surface.

As described above, the hair styling device 100 also includes directional switches (e.g., toggle switches) 114 and 116, which can be used to change the rotation direction of the rotating member 106, thereby allowing the user to create curls of different shapes.

Figures 5 and 6 schematically illustrate the steps of hair curling when a user is using one of the hair styling devices described herein (e.g., hair curling device 100). In some examples, the user can position the hair styling device against their hair using the cooling tip 122 directed towards the head. As shown in Figure 5, the hair can fall and lie along the rotating member. As described above, the retaining elements are typically dispersed apart from each other to detangle the hair and prevent or suppress tangling. The user may then position the hair on the rotating member by the action of gravity, manually, or by rotating the rotating member. By continuing to rotate the rotating member around the hair styling surface, the tabs capture the hair so that it wraps around the hair styling surface. Once the hair is wrapped around the hair styling surface, the free end region of the hair is drawn onto the styling surface through one or more regions of the rotating member.

After a certain period of time has elapsed and the hair has been heated, the user can remove the hair curling device from their hair. As described above, since the hair is not directly gripped, clamped, or held by the rotating member or barrel (as in the case of a curling iron with a clamp, for example), the user can typically simply pull the hair curling device away from their head. While pulling away the hair curling device, the user can also press switches 114 and 116 to easily pull and/or easily create different curl shapes. Once pulled away, the hair typically loosens from the barrel and can slide through the retaining element.

Referring to Figure 6, when hair is wrapped around the hair styling surface, the comb teeth 136 distribute the hair along the length of the hair styling surface. The teeth also prevent the hair from moving along the length of the hair styling surface, thus preventing tangling. The comb teeth 136 typically extend toward the hair styling surface 132, and therefore also press the hair against the hair styling surface. Referring to Figure 6, when hair is wrapped around the hair styling surface, the blade 144 presses the hair against the hair styling surface 132.

The user can position the free end of the hair styling surface (defined, for example, by the heated barrel) of a hair styling device such as the hair curling device 100 described above close to the user's head (e.g., on or near the head). In some embodiments, the hair curling device (i.e., the longitudinal axis of the hair styling surface) can be positioned adjacent to the user's head and substantially perpendicular. As shown, hair can be held (e.g., collected) within the rotating member of the hair styling device. For example, hair can be collected by the holding element 146 of the rotating member. As shown, hair can be held at the end of the hair styling surface opposite the free end of the styling device.

In some cases, as the rotating member rotates, the retaining elements of the rotating member can automatically collect and hold additional hair. With the assistance of the tabs and protruding members, the hair is wrapped around the heated hair styling surface and pressed against it. As the rotating member rotates, the tabs and protruding members extending from the rotating member can be used to press some or all of the hair against the hair styling surface at the lower end of the styling surface opposite the free end.

When hair is wrapped around a hair styling surface, the free end region of the hair can be drawn onto the hair styling surface through one or more regions of the rotating member (e.g., a retaining element).

In some embodiments, the rotating member can rotate continuously around the barrel after the hair has been completely wrapped around it. In some cases, the rotating member can continue rotating until the user releases the directional buttons on the handle (or presses the stop button).

After a certain period of time has elapsed and the hair has been heated, the user can remove the hair curling device from their hair. As described above, since the hair is not directly gripped, clamped, or held by a rotating member or barrel (as in the case of a curling iron with a clamp, for example), or enclosed by a hair capture housing or enclosure, the user can typically simply pull the hair curling device away from their head. Once pulled away, the hair typically becomes loose from the barrel and can slide through the retaining element.

In this way, wrapping the user's hair around the barrel 102, including using the rotating member 106 to wrap the hair around the relatively stationary (i.e., non-rotating) barrel 102, or using the tabs and/or protruding members to press the hair against the barrel 102, reduces the likelihood of the hair getting caught, tangled, or pulled during use. This enhanced performance is at least in part a result of the hair being loosely pulled by the retaining elements 108 and retaining tabs 110, neither of which tightly clamps the hair. In other words, when the rotating member 106 rotates and grips and rotates (e.g., twists, curls, wraps, spirals, or otherwise displaces) the hair, rather than clamping it to the barrel and rotating it, the hair is guided around the barrel 102, and as the hair forms a spiral curl, the hair is tightened against the stationary barrel rather than the moving part, potentially pulling the hair and causing discomfort. Therefore, the rotating members described herein typically reduce (or, in some embodiments, eliminate) the need for additional protective components such as clutches or sensor systems, and allow users to easily create curled hairstyles.

(Sleeve details)
Figures 7A to 7E show various views of the rotating sleeve 106. Figure 7A shows the assembled sleeve 106 having a retaining tab 110, a comb 134, fins 144, and other axially extending protrusions 142.

Figure 7B shows only the collar 106. This figure shows apertures 143 formed in the longitudinally extending region of the axially extending projection 142. These apertures 143 are designed to removably receive the fins 144. The aforementioned ridge 146 is also shown and is integrally molded with the peripheral edge that circumscribes the outside of the collar 106.

A separate blade or fin 144 is shown in Figure 7C. As seen in Figure 7A, the proximal region 145 of the fin defines a reversibly deformable peripheral portion having the same cross-section as the aperture 143. The reversibly deformable peripheral portion further defines a circumferentially extending groove, adapted to be reversibly received by the inward-facing edge of the aperture 143. This enables a snap-fit relationship between the aperture 143 and the fin 144.

The fins 144 further define a distal portion 147 that provides an inwardly oriented contact point with the styling surface and thus provides hair positioned between them. The distal portion is wide enough to apply pressure to the hair but not narrow enough to cut or otherwise damage it.

Figures 7D and 7E show the tab 110 and comb 134, respectively. Viewed in relation to Figure 7A, the comb 134 covers the tab 110, which is then snapped into place around the upward-facing circumference formed by the collar 106.

Figure 7E shows that the comb member and the rotating plate are integrally molded as a single body. It is assembled with the tab by sliding the comb portion onto the tab. The assembled part [(tab + (comb & rotating plate)] is fastened to the collar by three bolts through the hole 139 in the rotating plate. In one embodiment, the comb and rotating plate are molded separately as two parts. In this embodiment, the comb is attached to the tab by two springs. This arrangement of two springs provides a means for the comb to move in a straight line into the hollow portion of the tab by a bundle of hair.

In another embodiment related to Figure 3E, the comb can be tilted at a certain angle, and the top of the comb enters the hollow portion of the tab. Here, the comb is separated from the rotating plate and assembled to the tab with a torsion spring and hinge.

Viewed in relation to Figure 7B, the portion of the collar defining the axially extending aperture 165 is aligned with the laterally extending aperture 139 to effectively secure the comb to the collar. The axially extending aperture may be threaded to receive a threaded bolt or screw, which is initially slidably received by the laterally extending aperture 139.

(Alternative embodiment)
Figure 8 shows a side view of an alternative embodiment 200 of the hair styling device. The alternative embodiment 200 includes a body 210 comprising a handle portion 212, a hair manipulation portion 214, and a heating portion 216. As can be seen from Figure 8, some parts overlap each other. For example, some elements of the hair manipulation portion 214 extend onto the heating portion 216. As the alternative embodiment 200 is described, it is clear that the elements of the hair manipulation portion 214 also heat the hair in addition to the main heating portion 216.

In an alternative embodiment 200, the base member 206 includes a plurality of hair-retaining tabs 240. Each hair-retaining tab 240 extends axially from the base member 206, substantially longitudinally, around the hair-styling surface 232 of the heated barrel 202. As can be seen from Figure 9, each hair-retaining tab 240 may be of a different size. For example, in the embodiment 200 shown in Figure 9, one tab 240 is larger than the other two tabs.

The main body 210 includes a movement button 208, which rotates the base member 206 in the direction indicated by the movement button 208. In one embodiment, the main body 210 also includes at least one power button 207 and a heating indicator.

In the embodiment shown in Figure 9, three tabs 248 are shown, but in other embodiments, a different number of tabs may be used. The advantage of the three-tab configuration in Figure 9 is that sufficient space remains between the components of the hair manipulation section 214 to prevent hair tangling.

In one embodiment, each hair-holding tab 240 is fixed in a predetermined position and always remains fixed at a certain distance from the hair styling surface 232 of the heated barrel 202.

Each hair-holding tab includes an outer surface 242 and an inner surface 246. The inner surface 246 of each tab includes a peripheral wall and a central recess. Thus, the inner surface 246 comprises a holder for at least one rod 248 and a comb 250 for one of the rods 248.

Each rod 248 is in communication with the base plate. The base plate then transfers heat from the heated barrel 202. Since each rod 248 contains a heat transfer material such as metal, each rod 248 is heated as the heated barrel 202 is heated.

In one embodiment, each rod 248 is fixed to a base plate and its corresponding comb 250. In another embodiment, at least one rod 248 rotates around an axis (shown in subsequent figures). The combination of rods 248 and comb 250 is adapted to position and arrange hair passing through the device during styling.

The advantage of this embodiment 200 is that the rod 248 is in contact with the same heat source as the heated barrel 202, and therefore the rod 248 does not require individual heating elements.

In one embodiment, rod 248 contains a heat transfer metal. Rod 248 may include iron, aluminum, copper, etc. In one embodiment, different rods 248 have different compositions, and as a result, each rod has a different temperature during use in embodiment 200.

In one embodiment, the rod 248 is attached to the inner surface 246 of the tab by passing through a pin extending from the base plate. In another embodiment, the rod 248 is attached by snapping it into an opening defined by the comb 250.

As can be seen from the drawing, the rod 248 is heated together with the hair styling surface 232 of the heated barrel 202. Therefore, hair passing between the rod 248 and the hair styling surface 232 is heated from both sides. The combination of the rod 248 and the comb 250 ensures that hair passes through the device without tangling, while creating a more durable hairstyle.

However, the rod 248 does not come into contact with the heated barrel 202. The heat source is the base plate, not the heated barrel 202. This ensures that hair does not get caught in the device.

Referring to Figure 9, a top view of Embodiment 200 is shown. As can be seen from the top view, the base plate 226 surrounds the heated barrel. The rod 248 is positioned at the top of the base plate 226, and thermal energy from the base plate 226 is transferred to the rod 248.

In Figure 9, the central rod axis 258 of each rod 248 is also visible. In one embodiment, the central axis 258 of each rod 248 includes an aperture that receives a pin extending substantially perpendicularly away from the base plate 226.

Furthermore, Figure 9 shows the top surface 203 of the heated barrel 202. In one embodiment, the top surface 203 is equipped with an insulating cover, which ensures that the top surface 203 is not as hot as the hair styling surface of the heated barrel 202.

Figure 10 shows an embodiment 200 in which different tabs 240 are rotated around their central axis with the tabs facing the observer. A finger recess 266 opposite the movement button 208 on the main body 210 is visible in Figure 10. The rod 248 of the largest tab 240 is also shown in Figure 10.

Figure 11 is a front isometric view of Embodiment 200 showing the base plate 226 on which the rods 248 are mounted. The combs 250 associated with each rod 248 are also visible. As can be seen from Figure 11, a space 277 exists between the rods 248 and the heated barrel 202.

As can be seen in Figure 11, the base member 206 includes at least one recess 217 adapted to receive a holder such as a wall-mounted fixture (not shown).

Figure 12 shows embodiment 200 rotated again around its axis. Figure 12 shows the base plate 226, rod 248, and comb 250. As can be seen from Figure 12, the largest rod 248 is not surrounded by the comb, but rather by a holder 252 that holds the largest rod 248 in place. The holder 252 includes walls 254 that extend in the direction of the heated barrel 202 but approach each other near the tab 240, thereby compressing and holding the rod 248 in place.

In one embodiment, the rod 248 is removable for cleaning. In another embodiment, the comb 250 and holder 252 are flexible enough so that a cleaning device, such as a brush, can clean their respective surfaces.

In one embodiment, the heating element includes a special cleaning mode that heats the components of the device to facilitate a certain type of self-cleaning cycle.

While exemplary embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described in detail herein, various modifications, additions, substitutions, etc., can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention, and it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that these are considered to fall within the scope of the invention as defined in the following claims.

It should be understood that the above description is illustrative and not restrictive. For example, the above embodiments (and/or aspects thereof) may be used in combination with one another. Furthermore, many modifications can be made to adapt the teachings of the invention to specific situations or materials without departing from the scope of the invention. The dimensions and types of materials described herein are intended to define parameters of the invention, but they are not restrictive in any way, but rather illustrative embodiments. Many other embodiments will be obvious to those skilled in the art from the above description. Thus, the scope of the invention should be determined by reference to the appended claims, along with the entire scope of equivalents to which such claims are named. In the appended claims, the terms “in which” and “in which” are used as plain English equivalents of the terms “equipped with” and “wherein”. Furthermore, in the following claims, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third” are used merely as labels and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their subjects. Furthermore, the following limitations on the claims are not described in the means-plus-function format, and are not intended to be interpreted under Section 112, paragraph 6 of the U.S. Patent Act unless such limitations explicitly use the phrase “means to do” followed by a further unstructured description of the function.

Claims (15)

A hair styling device,
A barrel defining the hair styling surface and the central longitudinal axis, having a first proximal end and a second distal end,
A heating element that is thermally in communication with the barrel,
A rotating member located at the proximal end of the barrel and configured to rotate around the central axis of the barrel, comprising a tab extending along the longitudinal length of the hairstyling surface over at least a portion of the longitudinal portion of the hairstyling surface,
Equipped with,
The rotating member is a comb member attached to the tab, comprising a comb member having a plurality of comb teeth arranged along the longitudinal length of the hair styling surface,
The length of the comb teeth is configured to gradually decrease from the proximal end of the comb member to the distal end of the comb member , and as a result, the space between the comb member and the hair styling surface is larger at the distal end of the comb member than at the proximal end of the comb member.
Hair styling device. The hair styling device according to claim 1, wherein the barrel rotates around its longitudinal axis. The hair styling device according to claim 1, wherein the tab is displaced radially from the hair styling surface, the comb teeth extend toward the hair styling surface at an angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the comb member , and the comb teeth do not contact the hair styling surface. The hair styling device according to claim 1, wherein the rotating member further comprises one or more protruding members extending along the longitudinal length of the hair styling surface. The hair styling device according to claim 4, wherein at least one of the protruding members supports a fin extending toward the hair styling surface. The hair styling device according to claim 5, wherein the fin is reversibly attached to the protruding member. The hair styling device according to claim 4, wherein the protruding member and the tab are evenly arranged along the circumferential direction of the hair styling surface. The hair styling device according to claim 1, wherein the rotating member further comprises one or more hair-holding elements arranged around the peripheral region of the rotating plate. The hair styling device according to claim 1, wherein the comb member is detachably attached to the tab. The hair styling device according to claim 1, wherein the rotating member comprises a rotating plate surrounding the proximal end of the barrel. The hair styling device according to claim 5, wherein the fins are made from a flexible material selected from the group consisting of silicone, rubber, or plastic. The hair styling device according to claim 8, wherein the rotating member further comprises one or more protruding members extending along the longitudinal length of the hair styling surface. The hair styling device according to claim 12 , wherein at least one of the protruding members supports a fin extending toward the hair styling surface. The hair styling device according to claim 13 , wherein the fin is reversibly attached to the protruding member. The hair styling device according to claim 12 , wherein the protruding member and the tab are evenly arranged along the circumferential direction of the hair styling surface.