US20170135457A1

US20170135457A1 - Hairstyling Apparatus for Forming Curls of Different Sizes

Info

Publication number: US20170135457A1
Application number: US15/322,847
Authority: US
Inventors: Eddy NGO; Régis Fereyre; Martial Maisonneuve; Stefania NUZZO; Sandy LAPIZE
Original assignee: SEB SA
Current assignee: SEB SA
Priority date: 2014-07-02
Filing date: 2015-07-01
Publication date: 2017-05-18
Also published as: WO2016001583A1; RU2017101974A3; EP3164029A1; ES2837070T3; JP6820749B2; EP3164029B1; RU2687806C2; BR112016030910B1; BR112016030910A2; KR102366275B1; CN106659278B; JP2017519591A; CN106659278A; FR3023139B1; RU2017101974A; KR20170027786A; BR112016030910A8; FR3023139A1; CO2017000484A2

Abstract

Provided is a hairstyling apparatus (1) for curling and smoothing hair, which includes: first and second elongate jaws (2, 3) which are pivotably movable relative to one another, the first jaw (2) having a first casing (6) supporting a first inner planar treatment surface (4), and the second jaw (3) having a second casing (7) supporting a second inner planar treatment surface (5), the inner surfaces (4, 5) being intended for pinching a lock of hair; and at least one heating element (41, 510) intended for heating at least one inner treatment surface (4, 5). The largest width (l1) of the first casing (6) is no greater than 90% of the largest width (l2) of the second casing (7). The first casing (6) and/or the second casing (7) is asymmetrical relative to the median plane in a longitudinal crosssection of said first casing (6) or said second casing (7), respectively.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention pertains to a hairstyling apparatus that can use steam and is designed for styling, through contact with the hair, and in particular, designed to straighten as well as curl a person's hair.

STATE OF THE PRIOR ART

Traditionally, there exist two different types of hairstyling apparatuses for straightening or curling: rollers, whether heated or not, a straightener or straightening iron and a curler or curling iron.
Apparatuses of the straightening iron or curling iron type generally comprise two jaws that pivot with respect to one another around a shared axis, and each comprising one end that supports a treatment surface, at least one of the treatment surfaces being heated, the other being provided to bring the hair into contact with the first, particularly by switching from an open position of the jaws, enabling the insertion of the hair, to a closed position to put it in contact with the heating part.
The straightener has, on a first end of its jaws, two identical flat, heated surfaces that pinch the hair. In addition, the other end of the jaws forms two handles serving as a gripping area and making it possible to switch from the open position to the closed one. The switch is made manually by pressing the two jointed handles of the apparatus toward each other to bring the treatment surfaces in contact with the hair. A lock of hair is straightened by moving the apparatus along that lock, from the root toward the tip, in a straight-line movement of the closed apparatus.
The curler has surfaces formed by a cylindrical heating mandrel with one flap that pinches the end of the lock by pivoting on the mandrel before winding the whole lock around the mandrel. A lock of hair is curled by winding the lock at least partially around the treatment surface(s) and by applying heat to set the curl, primarily statically.
In each of these two apparatuses, there is an option to also use steam applied to the hair. This makes it possible to improve the styling of the hair, elongate the styling of the hair, keep moisture in the hair, care for the hair or aid the penetration of cosmetic agents into the hair.
There already exist straightening apparatuses that work with steam, such as those described by the applicant in patents WO2009077672 and EP2591698. The straightener of the second document cited is illustrated in FIG. 1. It has a straightening iron comprising two identical flat straightening plates that are facing one another and steam release holes. The steam straightener as described in EP2591698 and depicted in this application is presented in FIG. 1 as the closest prior art. This apparatus, which is currently available on the market, is completely satisfactory in terms of straightening and is able to produce enough steam output to thoroughly treat the hair fiber. Nevertheless, in order to produce excellent straightening and substantial steam output, this apparatus contains many internal elements with a configuration that is technically optimized but that takes up a rather large space as compared to a traditional straightening iron. Indeed, the jaw that produces steam contains a steam-generating chamber. Thus, the two casings or even the two shells that hold the plates and the steam-generating chamber each have an external cover that, when viewed in a transverse cross-section, has the same width or the same larger width. However, the two covers outline an asymmetrical, relatively flat exterior form, particularly with regard to the the steam function, which is to say where the steam holes and the deflector facing the holes are located.
Thus, if the user wishes to use this apparatus to form curls by winding the lock around one or both of the covers, he will not manage to form a well-rounded curl or to form a very regular curl, nor to slide it in a fluid and regular fashion to undo the curl, once formed.

PRESENTATION OF THE INVENTION

The objective of this invention is to remedy, at least in part, the aforementioned disadvantages, and to provide a straightener, with or without steam, that is not very bulky and that is capable of forming regular curls.
Another objective is to provide a straightener, with or without steam, that is not very bulky and that is capable of forming curls through an easy method of use.
Another objective is to provide a straightener, with or without steam, that is capable of forming curls of at least two different sizes (or diameters) or even at least three different sizes (or diameters) through an easy method of using this apparatus alone.
Another objective is to provide a straightener, with or without steam, that is capable of making curls at a lower cost price.
Another objective is to provide a straightener, with or without steam, that is capable of making curls and that weighs less.
Another objective is to provide a straightener, with or without steam, that is capable of making curls and that is easy to manipulate, and in particular easy to manipulate on the two handles or gripping areas, without touching the ends of the apparatus on the treatment side, which can sometimes be hot.
Another objective of the invention is an apparatus that styles hair by contact with it, using steam, in which at least one of the steam operating parameters can be controlled in a reliable manner.
Another objective of the invention is an apparatus that styles hair by contact with it, using steam, that can put out a continuous—or even constant—flow of steam, corresponding to the control setting.
Another objective of the invention is an apparatus that styles hair by contact with it, using steam, that is sturdy, and in particular sturdy under impact, robust in operation and ages well, with regard to mechanical deformation, for example.
Another objective of the invention is an apparatus that styles hair by contact with it, that can use steam, and that operates efficiently and/or quickly.
Another objective of the invention is an apparatus that styles hair by contact with it, that can use steam depending on the choice of hairstyle to be achieved and/or depending on the user's choice, before or during the treatment, and/or without having to add additional accessories.
Another objective of the invention is an apparatus that styles hair by contact with it, that can use steam and that is easy and practical to use.
Another objective of the invention is an apparatus that styles hair by contact with it, that can use steam and additional disposable components that are simple and inexpensive in design.
Another objective of the invention is an apparatus that styles hair by contact with it, that can use steam, and that is safe and can never burn the user's scalp or hands.
These objectives are achieved, according to a first aspect of the invention, with a hairstyling apparatus for curling and straightening hair, comprising first and second elongated jaws that are pivotably movable relative to one another, the first jaw having a first casing supporting a first inner planar treatment surface, and the second jaw having a second casing supporting a second inner planar treatment surface, the inner surfaces being designed to pinch a lock of hair, and at least one heating element designed to heat at least one inner treatment surface. In this apparatus, the largest width (l1) of the first casing is less than or equal to 90% of the largest width (l2) of the second casing. This characteristic, unlike any traditional straightener specifications, which are expected to have identical casing widths, makes it possible to provide different casings and therefore makes it possible to produce curls of different sizes around a casing or both casings together in the closed position, all while keeping the apparatus simple and not very bulky. We will consider the largest width as the reference for the size ratio between the two casings. Additionally, in this apparatus, at least one of the first or second casings is asymmetrical relative to the median plane in a longitudinal cross-section of said first casing or said second casing, respectively. This characteristic makes it possible to obtain curls, the curve radius of which is not constant, for a more natural effect. According to the invention, the second jaw comprises a means of releasing steam oriented toward the first casing and adjacent to the second inner treatment surface. This makes it possible to provide the steam treatment before the straightening treatment in the recommended order of passing the straightener over the lock. The technical components making it possible to produce and extract the steam are enclosed inside the larger-sized jaw, which is the broader jaw. The means of steam production comprises at least one fluid reservoir in fluid communication with a steam-generating chamber, and the steam-generating chamber can be heated by a heating means designed to also heat the treatment surface, or by a heating means dedicated solely to the steam-generating chamber.
More specifically, according to the invention, the largest width (l1) of the first casing is between 75% and 85% of the largest width (l2) of the second casing, and preferably equal to 80%. This makes it possible for each casing to house all of the internal technical components while limiting the overall external bulk of the two covers or two shells holding the hair treatment part.
According to the invention, when the jaws are in the closed position, the median plane (P1) in a longitudinal cross-section of the first casing, is parallel to and distinct from the median plane (P2) in a longitudinal cross-section of the second casing. This means that in a transverse cross-section orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the straightener, the cross-section is not orthogonally symmetrical with respect to the straightening plane (P1). The straightening plane (P1) is defined in that it contains the flat straightening area formed by the two flat treatment surfaces, one against the other, in the closed position of the apparatus. Each of the two casings is arranged on either side of the straightening plane. Thus, in the treatment area, the first casing is offset with respect to the second casing. This dissymmetry or offsetting makes it possible to provide an apparatus, the use of which will be intuitive for the user in one particular direction. This arrangement intuitively guides the user toward the most efficient method of use.
More specifically, according to the invention, the distance between the two median planes (P1, P2) is between 5% and 20% of the value of the largest width (l2) of the second casing, and preferably equal to 10%. This offsetting is pronounced enough to ergonomically guide the user.
According to the invention, when the jaws are in the closed position, one of the two longitudinal edges of the first casing is flush with the longitudinal edge of the second casing arranged on the same side of the second casing. This means that in the closed position, two edges of the same side of the apparatus are facing one another (as is usually the case for a straightener) and, more importantly, the two edges of the other side of the casing will be offset with respect to one another. On the side where the edges are flush, the curve formed by the outline of the two shells or casings will be relatively symmetrical with respect to the straightening plane (P1). The straightening plane (P1) is the plane containing the straightening area formed by the two surfaces in contact with one another. These two flush edges make it possible to form large-size curls by winding the lock around the two casings in the closed position of the apparatus. These two edges that are flush with one another make it possible to form a loose, well-rounded curl, which is to say, regular and without undesirable marks, with a relatively compact apparatus relative to the size of the curl obtained.
According to the invention, the inner treatment surfaces are flat, identical and facing one another in the closed position, are arranged in their respective casings and adjacent to said flush edges. By “adjacent” we mean as close or nearby as possible, considering production limitations, and taking into account the presence of any small bar that might be between the casing and the treatment surface. This means that the straightening treatment is done on the side of the flush edges. While in use on the lock being treated, these edges are to be arranged on the scalp side, to allow the hair, among the various treatment combinations provided by the apparatus (such as straightening, steaming, and even combing or brushing), to be subjected last to the straightening treatment and to ensure the perfect finish to the hairstyle.
More specifically, according to the invention, each of said two longitudinal edges is equipped with at least one small bar protruding toward the interior of the casing and made of the same material as said casings. This small bar protrudes relative to the outline of the casing and is oriented toward the interior of the casing. This small bar ideally forms two surfaces with a right angle (and not a chamfer), one of the two surfaces of which is parallel to the treatment surface or the surface of the adjacent straightening plate. This small bar makes it possible, when the apparatus is closed, to hold the lock in tension, to subject it to a scissoring effect and to curve it more easily. This effect, known as “bolduc” (gift ribbon) in French, can be compared to the effect of a scissor blade sliding over a “bolduc” ribbon to form curls. The small bars are identical and arranged in the same place on the jaws, to produce the same “bolduc” effect depending on the upward or downward tilt of the straightener. The small bar has a specific design and a surface texture that enables the hair to have a friction force on the upper small bar relative to the friction force on the external surface of the jaws. The surface texture can be a rough coating.
According to the invention, the width of each inner treatment surface is between 40% and 60% of the largest width (l1) of the first casing, and preferably between 40% and 50%, and preferably roughly equal to 45%. About half of the width of the casings is occupied to produce the main treatment step, which is the straightening step necessary to straighten the lock that may then be curled, depending on the user's choice.
More specifically, according to the invention, the first casing has a deflector formed in its interior outline and arranged in a closed position roughly facing the steam release means of the second casing. This deflector has several functions: to protect the scalp from any jet of steam that could burn it, direct the steam toward the hair, which will be passed over twice and thus receive a better treatment. The angle and arrangement of the deflector is such that its size is minimized as much as possible as compared to the closest prior art, while maintaining its functionalities.
According to the invention, the second casing comprises a comb or a brush oriented toward the first casing and adjacent to the second inner treatment surface. When combing or brushing functions are provided in addition to the straightening function, the order in which the hair is treated is as follows: combing or brushing, then straightening or, if steam is formed, steaming, then combing or brushing, and then straightening.
More specifically, according to the invention, the first casing has a groove formed in its interior outline that is arranged, in the closed position, roughly facing the comb or the brush of the second casing. This makes it possible to hold at least the free end of the comb or at least the free end of the row of brush bristles in the closed position, while limiting the bulk as much as possible, all while protecting the end of the accessory (comb, brush, etc.) from any excessive tension caused while the apparatus is passing along the lock in the closed position that could damage the comb. The comb should not abut the upper casing before coming into contact with the heating plates.
According to the invention, the first handle of the first jaw and the second handle of the second jaw each have a width (Lp) that is strictly smaller than the largest width (l1) of the first casing. This makes it possible to have an easy grip for any size hand. Then handles extend along the longitudinal axis of the respective casings. The edges of the casings, which are flush with one another, are each in a particular aligned configuration (along a single straight line) with the corresponding edges of the handles. The asymmetry of the apparatus is also pronounced in the handles.
According to the invention, the external surface of the first casing and second casing at least covering the treatment area formed by the treatment surfaces is essentially smooth. This enables the locks to slide as much as possible when they are wound around one or both of the casings and when they have to be released without impacting the shape of the curls produced, shiny surface texture, such as Charmilles 0 or 3. The roughness (Ra) of the surface referred to as “essentially smooth” will range between 0.2 μm and 2 μm, and more specifically between 0.2 μm and 0.5 μm. At least one gripping area can be arranged on the external surface of the casings. This gripping area is adapted to limit the transfer of heat in order to offer the option of a different manner of handling it without a risk of burn, by holding the jaws by the casing instead of by the handles. For example, the surface of this gripping area can be made of a different material or can have a different surface texture from the rest of the external surface of each casing.
According to the invention, in a cross-section, the line defined by the exterior outline of the first and second casings is a rounded curve without any point of inflection. According to one specific aspect, the line is never visually flat. This makes it possible to provide an apparatus of reduced bulk, capable of forming curls, the overall outline of which is roughly rounded. For these reasons of bulk and different contents of the two casings, the exterior outline is nevertheless not circular. According to the invention, the apparatus comprises a fluid reservoir and a steam-generating means that is in fluid communication with the steam release means and an actuator designed to control the steam-generating means. This makes it possible to control the steam separately from the heating of the treatment or straightening surfaces. The user has a choice through this actuator.
According to the invention, the steam-generating means comprises an electric pump and said actuator is designed to control the electric pump. This makes it possible to control the supply to the steam-generating chamber independently of the heating of the treatment or straightening surfaces. Thus, if the user wishes to stop generating steam, he presses the actuator or switch to stop the operation of the electric pump, while the heating of the steam-generating chamber remains unchanged by the activation of the switch, and continues. If the user wishes to have steam once again, he will activate the switch, which will restart the electric pump and make the steam immediately operational, as the steam-generating chamber will have remained at the appropriate temperature while the pump was stopped. The user has a choice, through this actuator, between stopping the steam immediately and restarting the steam immediately.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

It will be easier to understand the invention upon review of the embodiments, which should not be understood as limiting in any way, and which are illustrated here:

FIG. 1 depicts a perspective view of an apparatus according to the prior art;

FIGS. 2 and 3, respectively, depict a perspective view of an apparatus according to the invention in an open position and in a closed position, respectively;

FIG. 4 depicts a transverse cross-section view of the casings according to the invention;

FIG. 5 depicts a dimetric view of the apparatus according to the invention, from the side on which the casing edges are flush with one another;

FIG. 6 depicts an alternative embodiment of the apparatus according to the invention;

FIG. 6′ depicts a cross-section view of the remote base of the apparatus according to this alternative embodiment.

The same reference numbers are used to indicate the same or even similar components depicted in multiple drawings.

DETAILED PRESENTATION OF THE INVENTION

As depicted in all of the drawings, including FIG. 1, which depicts the prior art, the hairstyling apparatus (1) comprises a first jaw (2) and a second jaw (3) arranged facing one another. Each jaw can be broken down, at least functionally, into two parts: a casing that holds the hair treatment bodies, and a handle for the user to grip it. Each casing is formed in one piece. The casing and the handle can be a single piece as an extension of one another. Thus, the first jaw (2) can be formed of a first casing (6) and the first handle (6′) and the second jaw (3) can be formed of the second casing (7) and the second handle (7′). The first inner treatment surface (4) is supported by the first jaw (2), and more specifically by the first casing (6), the second inner treatment surface (5) is supported by the second jaw (3), and more specifically by the second casing (7). The two jaws (2, 3) are connected so as to switch between an open position and a closed position, in which the inner treatment surfaces (4, 5) pinch a lock of hair. The first (4) and second (5) hair treatment surfaces are flat, complementary surfaces which, when the apparatus is in the closed position, move to roughly fit together to pinch the lock of hair, thus making it possible to straighten it when the lock is slid through in a straight-line movement. The two treatment surfaces are essentially symmetrical relative to the straightening plane when the apparatus is in the closed position. Likewise, the heating elements of each treatment surface are essentially symmetrical relative to the straightening plane when the apparatus is in the closed position.
The first jaw (2) and the second jaw (3) are connected by a hinge-type joint, and a maximum opening angle (α) of the two jaws is between 5° and 60°, or even between 10° and 20°, and preferably approximately equal to 15°. In addition, the apparatus is depicted here still in an “open” rest position, but it can be in a “closed” rest position, as depicted in patent EP2145557, said jaws being assembled to pivot to the other end between an open position enabling the insertion of hair between the two treatment surfaces, and a closed position to put the hair in contact with the two treatment surfaces, and the apparatus comprises a means of returning the demi-handles, which press the treatment surfaces together. The pivot axis of the two jaws supporting the treatment surfaces can be placed at the ends of the jaws (as depicted here) or placed approximately in the middle of the jaws to provide an apparatus with a scissor-type joint.
The material forming the treatment surfaces (4, 5) is made of metal and/or ceramic and/or glass and/or plastic material and/or a fiber piece. At least one of the first and second casings has a single heating element designed to heat, through contact, the corresponding treatment surface, and by radiation, the coating. The treatment surface can rise to a temperature of between 130 and 230° C. The casing and the external handle are in one piece to form the jaw. The material forming the external part of the casing, or even also the external part of the handle, can be plastic, such as fiberglass-reinforced PBT (polybutylene terephthalate). It is important for this material to have a very smooth surface. The material forming the interior part of the casing, or even also the interior part of the handle, can be plastic, such as fiberglass-reinforced PET (polyethylene terephthalate).
As depicted in FIG. 4, the apparatus (1) comprises at least one heating means (41) to heat the first treatment surface (4). In one particular embodiment, the apparatus (1) also comprises a heating means (51) to heat the second treatment surface. The one or more heating means (41, 51) can be a heating element that can be a PTC (positive temperature coefficient) thermistor or a ceramic element that lies flat against the treatment surface (4, 5) or is arranged inside the element comprising the treatment surface (4, 5).
As depicted in FIG. 4, the apparatus (1) comprises in one embodiment a means of generating steam (80) from the fluid, comprising a steam-generating chamber (81) and a heating means (or heating element or heater element) (82), for the steam-generating chamber. The one or more steam-generating chamber(s) are made of aluminum, and may comprise a steam release means (31) that can be formed by one or more steam delivery holes, such as a row of holes, for example. The one or more steam-generating chamber(s) (81) can be lying flat in direct or indirect contact against the corresponding heating element (82). The proper pressing of the heating element (82) and therefore its optimal operation are ensured by a spring-loaded strip (not depicted), for example.
A temperature sensor can be preferably arranged above the inlet of fluid into the chamber. The heating means (82) of the steam-generating chamber can be at least one heating element that can be a PTC (positive temperature coefficient) thermistor or a ceramic element that is lying flat against one of the walls or arranged inside the element forming the treatment surface, and it can be identical or separate from the heating means of the treatment surface. The means of delivering or releasing the steam (31) can have a series of steam release holes arranged laterally to the first treatment surface (4), and preferably set back a bit from the treatment surface (4). Alternatively or additionally, the steam delivery means has a series of holes arranged on the treatment surface. The steam release flow is approximately between 3 and 4 g/min, and preferably approximately equal to 2.5 g/min. The internal construction of the apparatus and particularly of the steam-generating means is described in full detail in the applicant's patent EP2449909.
As depicted in FIGS. 2, 3 and 4, the hairstyling apparatus (1) for curling and straightening hair measures, at its largest width (l1) of the first casing (6), less than or equal to 90% of the largest width (l2) of the second casing (7). More specifically, the largest width (l1) of the first casing (6) is between 75% and 85% of the largest width (l2) of the second casing (7), and preferably equal to 80%. These largest widths are essentially constant over the casing, except on the ends of each casing, which is why a value range is indicated. Moreover, FIG. 4 is a cross-section roughly in the middle of the casings.
In the closed position of the jaws (2, 3), as depicted in FIGS. 3 and 4, the median plane or even the sagittal plane (P1) in a longitudinal cross-section of the first casing (6) is parallel to and separate from the median plane (P2) in a longitudinal cross-section of the second casing (7). The distance between the two median or sagittal planes (P1, P2) is between 5% and 20% of the width of the largest width (l2) of the second casing (7), and preferably equal to 10%. Thus, the body of the two casings is not symmetrical along a transverse longitudinal plane, but offset.
The outline of the apparatus is clearly asymmetrical and is used judiciously, both to decrease the bulk of the internal elements and to facilitate the process of using the straightener for forming curls of different sizes. As depicted in FIGS. 3 and 4, when the jaws (2 and 3) are in the closed position, one of the two longitudinal edges (61) of the first casing (6) is flush with the longitudinal edge (71) of the second casing (7) arranged on the same side of the second casing (7). Transverse longitudinal plane P4 and transverse longitudinal plane P5, respectively, are the median plane of the inner treatment surface (4) and the inner treatment surface (5), respectively. In the cross-section depicted in FIG. 4, this plane (P4) is parallel and offset toward the exterior with respect to planes P1 and P2. Planes P4, P1 and P2 are parallel to one another and are each orthogonal to the straightening plane (P1). In addition, the first casing (6) and the second casing (7) of this example are also asymmetrical relative to their respective median planes (P1, P2) in a longitudinal cross-section.
As we have seen, the inner treatment surfaces (4, 5) are flat, identical, facing one another in the closed position, and are arranged in their respective casings (6, 7) on the side and nearby said flush edges (61, 71). In FIG. 4 is shown the flush line, a line running tangent to the edges (61, 71) of the casings or covers that are flush with one another. This line is orthogonal to the straightening plane (P1). The curves of the outlines (Ii6, Ii7) of the respective casings (6, 7) form a circular arc that is essentially continuous at the flush edges (61, 71), and therefore the value of the circular arc is approximately 15 mm.
Each of said two longitudinal edges (61, 71) is provided internally with a small bar (62, 72) that protrudes toward the interior of the apparatus, preferably made of the same material (such as PBT plastic) as said casings (6, 7). These small bars are arranged in the same way on both casings as depicted in FIG. 5. They make it possible to apply tension to give a “bolduc” ribbon effect to the hair, which slides over one of these small bars during the straightening action. This is a first way of forming inward or outward curls, respectively, depending on which small bar is used—the one arranged on the bottom or the one arranged on the top of the straightener, respectively.
As depicted in FIGS. 2 and 4, the width (l) of each inner treatment surface (4, 5) is between 40% and 60% of the largest width (l1) of the first casing (6), and preferably between 40% and 50%, and even roughly equal to 45%.
As depicted in FIG. 4, here is a non-limiting example of the dimensions of the apparatus according to the invention:
l1: largest width of the first casing (6)=45 mm
l2: largest width of the second casing (7)=52 mm
h1: largest height of the first casing (6)=23 mm
h2: largest height of the second casing (7)=32 mm
l: width of each inner treatment surface (4, 5)=25 mm
r: radius of the curve formed by the outline of each side of the first casing (6): about 14 mm.
The straightener according to the invention has its second jaw (3) comprising a steam release means (31) oriented toward the first casing (6) and adjacent to the second inner treatment surface (5). Precisely, this means that the first jaw (2) comprises, for the hair treatment, only one straightening plate, while the second jaw has, for hair treatment, a straightening plate and at least one additional hairstyling function. Said at least one additional hairstyling function may be one or more functions chosen from the following list: steaming, combing, brushing, ionizing, applying tension with the small bar made of a silicone-type material, or applying tension with a small movable bar that oscillates, for example. This invention thus provides a compact hairstyling apparatus with an additional hairstyling function to that of straightening, and with the ability to form curls of at least two different sizes, or even at least three different sizes. To do this, said additional hairstyling function is built into the broader of the two casings. The invention resides in the best reduction of the width of the jaw casing with only the straightening function, without resulting in a dysfunction, either in terms of safety or efficacy, of the complete hairstyling apparatus. Consequently, the formation of curls, as well as the “release” of the curls, constituted an additional limitation on the size and shape of the casings.
If a steam function is built into the second jaw (3), it may be important for the first casing (6) to have a deflector (21) formed in its interior outline and arranged in a closed position roughly facing the steam release means (31) of the second casing (7). This deflector makes it possible to protect the scalp from any undesired spray of steam or condensed droplets of hot water. This deflector (21) makes it possible to direct the steam toward the hair, which will be passed over twice by the steam. The deflector in the prior art depicted in FIG. 1 was very broad, flat and covered the entire size of the jaw it was facing. The sizing of the deflector (21) of the invention depicted in FIG. 4 was carefully chosen by the inventors to retain this function; the width dimension is decreased as much as possible such that it just covers the steam release holes (31). Moreover, the shape of this deflector has been modified; it is no longer flat as depicted in FIG. 1, but the interior outline of the first casing (6) is slanted upward to serve as the deflector.
As depicted in FIG. 4, the second casing (7) comprises a comb or brush (32) oriented toward the first casing (6) and adjacent to the second inner treatment surface (5). In this case, the first casing (6) can have a groove (22) formed in its interior outline and arranged in the closed position roughly facing the comb or brush (32) of the second casing (7). In this way, the comb clearly separates the entire thickness of the lock without the combing function taking up too much space.
As depicted in FIGS. 2 and 3, the first handle (6′) of the first jaw (2) and the second handle (7′) of the second jaw (3) each have a width (lp) that is strictly smaller than the largest width (l1) of the first casing (6), which is to say, at the smallest width on the two casings (6, 7). Consequently, the edges of the casings (6, 7) that are arranged flush with one another are, in these cases, aligned with the edge of the same side of the handles to form a coinciding alignment line (L_ali) as shown in FIG. 2. It turns out that this alignment increases the ergonomics of the apparatus, which can be manipulated by any size hand.
The external surface of the first casing (6) and the second casing (7) is essentially smooth. The friction coefficient was measured using roughness measurements of the shell in the area designed for winding the curls as follows:
a) Ra measurement on the “flat” upper part, or even the part that is tangent to the horizontal of the shell (6) depicted in FIG. 4:
In the longitudinal direction: 0.24; 0.23; 0.22 μm, which is 0.23 μm on average;
In the transverse direction: 0.22; 0.44; 0.27 μm, which is 0.31 μm on average.
b) Ra measurement on the lateral part, to the left and to the right of the casing (6) depicted in FIG. 4:
In the longitudinal direction: 0.24; 0.23; 0.43; 1.63 μm, which is 0.24 μm on average, with localized peaks ranging up to 1.63 μm.
The roughness meter used is from the brand Mitutoyo, no. JP1010. The statistical criterion R_ais statistical, and it is the average arithmetic deviation with respect to the average line.
This makes it possible to wind and “release” the curls easily without damaging the lock of hair.
In a transverse cross-section as depicted in FIG. 4, the line defined by the exterior outline of the first and second casings (6, 7) is a rounded curve without any points of inflection. A major portion of the work was to define, as best as possible, the most rounded and fluid outline possible of the casings, without any points of inflection and according to the overall bulk of the internal components and the safety and efficacy measures established by the apparatus. It is notable that in a transverse cross-section, there are no flat lines that are visually detectable by the naked eye. On the first casing, it has circular arcs on the sides that are smaller than the circular arcs on the sides of the second casing. The curve radii of each side of the first casing (6) are roughly identical. This makes it possible to form the roundest possible curls. This also makes it possible to avoid having corners on the apparatus, which are fragile to impact. In a cross-section view, the exterior outline of the first casing (6) is roughly a reduction of the exterior outline in a transverse cross-section of the second casing (7) at a ratio of approximately 0.8.
According to the invention, the apparatus comprises a fluid reservoir (83) and a steam-generating means (80) in fluid communication with the steam release means (31) and an actuator (85) designed to control the steam-generating means (80). More specifically, the steam-generating means (80) comprises an electric pump (84), and said actuator (85) is designed to control the electric pump (84). This makes it possible to control the supply to the steam-generating chamber (81) independently of heating the treatment or straightening surfaces (4, 5). The user has a choice, by this actuator (85). If he wishes to make curls with or without steam, the user presses the actuator directly. The electric pump may be a peristaltic pump, for which the actuator (85) will control the motor.
FIGS. 6 and 6′ depict an alternative embodiment of the invention. The apparatus has a two-piece configuration: a straightening iron as described in the invention presented above, and a remote base. This configuration is described in the applicant's patent EP2449910. Thus, the apparatus (1) designed for hairstyling, comprising a base (1000), comprising a (main) fluid reservoir (83), a hand-held unit (100) comprising a means of generating steam (80) from the fluid, a means of delivering the steam (31) to the hair, a cord (121) comprising at least one tube designed to transfer the fluid and arranged between the main fluid reservoir (83) and the steam-generating means (80), the hand-held unit (100) comprises at least one first treatment surface (4) designed to come into contact with the hair, and the means of generating steam (80) from the fluid are exclusively provided in the hand-held unit (100). The base is referred to as “remote” from the hand-held unit, and can be placed on a work surface. The base comprises a receptacle (1001) for holding the hand-held unit or hand piece (100) when it is not in use, and comprises a cover (2030) for adding the fluid; the cover (2030) may be completely removable to replace the demineralization means (2000) (cartridge) when necessary. A portion of the base may be made transparent so that the user can be visually alerted that the ion-exchanging resin is changing color, as it is no longer operative. It comprises a demineralization means (2000) that makes it possible to reduce the calcium content of the fluid added to the base. This demineralization means (2000) is arranged between an intermediary reservoir that receives the “raw” fluid and between the reservoir (83) that contains the “purified” fluid intended for the hairstyling apparatus (1).
As depicted in FIG. 6′, the base (1000) comprises a demineralization means (2000) and a fluid reservoir (83); the fluid is carried by the cord (121) comprising a fluid tube (121′) and electrical wires (121″). The means of conveying the fluid from the reservoir in the base to the steam-generating chamber of the hand-held unit (100) comprises an electric pump (84), in this case a peristaltic pump, the motor (84′) of which is controlled by the actuator (85) arranged here on the base (1000).
Alternatively, the apparatus may take on a configuration depicted in FIG. 2, comprising a single apparatus with a built-in fluid reservoir and a built-in steam-generating actuator (85).

DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION IN OPERATION

In operation, the user connects the electrical power supply to the apparatus, the PTC- or ceramic-type heating element begins heating the surfaces designed to come in contact with the hair, and a separate heating element (or the same heating element) begins heating the steam-generating means (80) (when there is a steam function), the user takes hold of the apparatus and applies it to pinch the lock of hair receiving the treatment.
Since the two casings are asymmetrical, the arrangement of the apparatus on the lock is significant: the user must arrange and close the straightener so that the two flush sides are as close as possible to the scalp; the direction is depicted in FIG. 2. Then, the user can perform the traditional straightening step by sliding the hair in a rectilinear fashion along the lock, in the direction shown by the arrow drawn on the first casing (6) in FIGS. 2 and 3.
When the user wishes to form small-sized curls, he proceeds as follows: with the apparatus (1) in the open position, he winds the lock of hair around the first casing (6), and then closes the straightener as close as possible to the scalp, holds it still for several seconds and then slides the apparatus (1) toward the free end of the lock to “release” the lock. This makes it possible to form small-sized curls.
When the user wishes to form larger-sized curls, he proceeds as follows: once the apparatus is closed as close as possible to the scalp, he slides it along the entire length of the lock and, at the end of the lock, he keeps the apparatus in the closed position and spins it around itself to wind the lock around the two casings (6, 7) in the closed position up to the scalp, and then, after a few seconds, he unwinds the lock. This makes it possible to form smooth, shiny, large-sized curls.
Each static step can last a few seconds, or even one or two minutes, enough time to allow the curls to form properly. The length of the pause varies in particular depending on the temperature of the apparatus and on the kind of hair being treated.

ADVANTAGES OF THE INVENTION

The invention offers many advantages, which include providing a hairstyling apparatus, and particularly a straightener:

- With a steam function option, that is not very bulky and is able to form regular curls,
- With a steam function option, that is not very bulky and is able to form curls by an easy-to-use method,
- With a steam function option, that is able to form curls of at least two different sizes (or diameters) or even at least three different sizes, by an easy-to-use method,
- With a steam function option, that is able to make curls, at a low production cost for this single apparatus,
- With a steam function option, that is able to make curls and that has a reduced weight,
- With a steam function option, that is able to make curls and is easy to manipulate, and in particular to manipulate with the two handles or gripping areas and without touching the end of the apparatus on the treatment side, which can sometimes be hot,
- With a steam function option, able to control, in a reliable manner, at least one of the operating parameters of the steam,
- With a steam function, that can provide continuous, or even constant, steam output, corresponding to the control setting,
- With a steam function option, that is sturdy, and in particular sturdy under impact, robust in operation and that ages well with regard to mechanical deformation, for example.
- With a steam function option, that works efficiently and/or quickly,
- With a steam function option, that is easy and practical to use,
- With a steam function option, and additional disposable components that are simple and inexpensive in design,
- With a steam function option, that is safe and can never burn the user's scalp or hands,
- With an increased product lifespan, which decreases the environmental impact of the device,
- With safe, reliable operation providing a high-quality hair treatment,
- Sturdy, robust operation that ages well,
- Efficient and/or quick operation,
- Airtight operation;
- That functions in any position of the apparatus,
- That is easy and practical to use,
- With a simplified structure,
- That can be manufactured at a low cost,
- That produces less undesirable friction,
- That is no longer at the mercy of mechanical deformation of the casings for activating a component,
- That no longer causes irregular stress with regard to the force applied by the user for closing or opening.

Of course, the invention is in no way limited to the embodiments described and depicted, which have been provided only as examples. Modifications remain possible, particularly with regard to the makeup of the various components or by substituting equivalent techniques, while nevertheless remaining within the scope of protection of the invention.

Claims

1. Hairstyling apparatus for curling and straightening hair, comprising:

first and second elongated jaws that are pivotably movable with respect to one another,

the first jaw having a first casing supporting a first inner planar treatment surface, and,

the second jaw having a second casing supporting a second inner planar treatment surface,

the inner surfaces being designed to pinch a lock of hair,

at least one heating element designed to heat at least one inner treatment surface,

a largest width (l1) of the first casing being less than or equal to 90% of a largest width (l2) of the second casing

and at least one of either the first casing or the second casing being asymmetrical with respect to a median plane (P1, P2) in a longitudinal cross-section of said first casing or said second casing, respectively,

wherein

the second jaw comprises a steam release means oriented toward the first casing and adjacent to the second inner treatment surface.

2. Apparatus according to claim 1, in which the largest width (l1) of the first casing is between 75% and 85% of the largest width (l2) of the second casing.

3. Apparatus according to claim 1, in which, in the closed position of the jaws, the median plane (P1) in a longitudinal cross-section of the first casing is parallel to and distinct from the median plane (P2) in a longitudinal cross-section of the second casing.

4. Apparatus according to claim 3, in which a distance between said two median planes (P1, P2) is between 5% and 20% of a value of the largest width (l2) of the second casing.

5. Apparatus according to claim 1, in which, in a closed position of the jaws, one of two longitudinal edges of the first casing is flush with a longitudinal edge of the second casing arranged on a same side of the second casing.

6. Apparatus according to claim 5, in which the inner treatment surfaces are flat, identical and are facing one another in a closed position, and are arranged in their respective casings adjacent to said flush longitudinal edges.

7. Apparatus according to claim 5, in which each of said longitudinal edges is provided with at least one small bar that protrudes toward an interior of the casing.

8. Apparatus according to claim 1, in which a width (l) of each inner treatment surface is between 40% and 60% of the largest width (l1) of the first casing.

9. Apparatus according to claim 1, in which the first casing has a deflector formed in its interior outline and arranged in a closed position substantially facing the steam release means of the second casing.

10. Apparatus according to claim 1, in which the second casing comprises a comb or a brush oriented toward the first casing and adjacent to the second inner treatment surface.

11. Apparatus according to claim 10, in which the first casing has a groove formed in its interior outline and arranged in a closed position substantially facing the comb or brush of the second casing.

12. Apparatus according to claim 1, in which a first handle of the first jaw and a second handle of the second jaw each has a width (lp) that is smaller than the largest (l1) of the first casing.

13. Apparatus according to claim 1, in which an external surface of the first casing and the second casing is essentially smooth.

14. Apparatus according to claim 1, in which, in a transverse cross-section, a line defined by an exterior outline of the first and second casings is a rounded curve without any points of inflection.

15. Apparatus according to claim 1, comprising a fluid reservoir and a steam-generating means in fluid communication with the steam release means and an actuator designed to control the steam-generating means.

16. Apparatus according to claim 15, in which the steam-generating means comprises an electric pump and in which said actuator is designed to control the electric pump.

17. Apparatus according to claim 1, in which the largest width (l1) of the first casing is about 80% of the largest width (l1) of the second casing.

18. Apparatus according to claim 3, in which a distance between said two median planes (P1, P2) is about 10% of a value of the largest width (l2) of the second casing.