US20230404237A1 - Haircare appliance - Google Patents
Haircare appliance Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20230404237A1 US20230404237A1 US18/034,638 US202118034638A US2023404237A1 US 20230404237 A1 US20230404237 A1 US 20230404237A1 US 202118034638 A US202118034638 A US 202118034638A US 2023404237 A1 US2023404237 A1 US 2023404237A1
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- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- emitter
- treatment chamber
- hair treatment
- hair
- haircare appliance
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Pending
Links
- 230000005855 radiation Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 51
- 239000003570 air Substances 0.000 description 49
- 238000001035 drying Methods 0.000 description 29
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 description 12
- 206010019049 Hair texture abnormal Diseases 0.000 description 4
- 238000001816 cooling Methods 0.000 description 4
- 230000009286 beneficial effect Effects 0.000 description 3
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 3
- 238000010438 heat treatment Methods 0.000 description 3
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 3
- 239000012080 ambient air Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229910052736 halogen Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 230000004308 accommodation Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000002411 adverse Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000004411 aluminium Substances 0.000 description 1
- XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N aluminium Chemical compound [Al] XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 229910052782 aluminium Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000011521 glass Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000003993 interaction Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000003825 pressing Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000010937 tungsten Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229910052721 tungsten Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- -1 tungsten halogen Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45D—HAIRDRESSING OR SHAVING EQUIPMENT; EQUIPMENT FOR COSMETICS OR COSMETIC TREATMENTS, e.g. FOR MANICURING OR PEDICURING
- A45D20/00—Hair drying devices; Accessories therefor
- A45D20/04—Hot-air producers
- A45D20/08—Hot-air producers heated electrically
- A45D20/10—Hand-held drying devices, e.g. air douches
- A45D20/12—Details thereof or accessories therefor, e.g. nozzles, stands
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45D—HAIRDRESSING OR SHAVING EQUIPMENT; EQUIPMENT FOR COSMETICS OR COSMETIC TREATMENTS, e.g. FOR MANICURING OR PEDICURING
- A45D1/00—Curling-tongs, i.e. tongs for use when hot; Curling-irons, i.e. irons for use when hot; Accessories therefor
- A45D1/02—Curling-tongs, i.e. tongs for use when hot; Curling-irons, i.e. irons for use when hot; Accessories therefor with means for internal heating, e.g. by liquid fuel
- A45D1/04—Curling-tongs, i.e. tongs for use when hot; Curling-irons, i.e. irons for use when hot; Accessories therefor with means for internal heating, e.g. by liquid fuel by electricity
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45D—HAIRDRESSING OR SHAVING EQUIPMENT; EQUIPMENT FOR COSMETICS OR COSMETIC TREATMENTS, e.g. FOR MANICURING OR PEDICURING
- A45D1/00—Curling-tongs, i.e. tongs for use when hot; Curling-irons, i.e. irons for use when hot; Accessories therefor
- A45D1/06—Curling-tongs, i.e. tongs for use when hot; Curling-irons, i.e. irons for use when hot; Accessories therefor with two or more jaws
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45D—HAIRDRESSING OR SHAVING EQUIPMENT; EQUIPMENT FOR COSMETICS OR COSMETIC TREATMENTS, e.g. FOR MANICURING OR PEDICURING
- A45D2/00—Hair-curling or hair-waving appliances ; Appliances for hair dressing treatment not otherwise provided for
- A45D2/001—Hair straightening appliances
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45D—HAIRDRESSING OR SHAVING EQUIPMENT; EQUIPMENT FOR COSMETICS OR COSMETIC TREATMENTS, e.g. FOR MANICURING OR PEDICURING
- A45D20/00—Hair drying devices; Accessories therefor
- A45D20/04—Hot-air producers
- A45D20/08—Hot-air producers heated electrically
- A45D20/10—Hand-held drying devices, e.g. air douches
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45D—HAIRDRESSING OR SHAVING EQUIPMENT; EQUIPMENT FOR COSMETICS OR COSMETIC TREATMENTS, e.g. FOR MANICURING OR PEDICURING
- A45D1/00—Curling-tongs, i.e. tongs for use when hot; Curling-irons, i.e. irons for use when hot; Accessories therefor
- A45D1/02—Curling-tongs, i.e. tongs for use when hot; Curling-irons, i.e. irons for use when hot; Accessories therefor with means for internal heating, e.g. by liquid fuel
- A45D1/04—Curling-tongs, i.e. tongs for use when hot; Curling-irons, i.e. irons for use when hot; Accessories therefor with means for internal heating, e.g. by liquid fuel by electricity
- A45D2001/045—Curling-tongs, i.e. tongs for use when hot; Curling-irons, i.e. irons for use when hot; Accessories therefor with means for internal heating, e.g. by liquid fuel by electricity the power being supplied by batteries
Definitions
- the hair treatment chamber may be open to ambient air.
- at least one side of the chamber may be open to ambient air. This may enable air containing evaporated liquid to be removed from the hair treatment chamber in use, for example removed under action of the airflow from the airflow generator within the hair treatment chamber.
- the emitter may be configured to emit radiation having a peak wavelength in the region of 700 nm-1 mm.
- the emitter may be configured to emit infrared radiation comprising a peak wavelength greater than 900 nm. This may enable relatively quick drying of hair compared to, for example, an emitter configured to emit radiation having a peak wavelength less than 900 nm.
- the emitter may be configured to emit infrared radiation comprising a peak wavelength in the region of 1000-3500 nm, for example in the region of 2000-3000 nm. This may enable efficient drying of hair contained within the hair treatment chamber in use.
- the emitter may be configured to emit infrared radiation targeted to evaporate water.
- the emitter may be configured to emit infrared radiation comprising a peak wavelength of less than 1 mm.
- the emitter may be configured to emit broadband infrared radiation having a peak wavelength in the region of 1000-3500 nm, for example in the region of 2000-3000 nm.
- the haircare appliance may comprise a further emitter located in the other of the second and first arms. This may enable a more efficient drying process by applying radiation to opposing sides of hair located within the hair treatment chamber in use.
- the further emitter may be configured to emit infrared radiation comprising a peak wavelength greater than 900 nm. This may enable relatively quick drying of hair compared to, for example, an emitter configured to emit radiation having a peak wavelength less than 900 nm.
- the further infrared transmissive window may extend along at least 50% of the length of the hair treatment chamber, for example along at least 60%, at least 70%, or at least 80% of the length of the hair treatment chamber.
- the further infrared transmissive window may comprise a length that it at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, or at least 80%, of the length of the hair treatment chamber. This may maximise an area of the hair treatment chamber within which drying of hair using infrared radiation emitted by the further emitter can occur, which may lead to a more efficient drying process.
- One of the first and second arms may comprise an air outlet through which airflow from the airflow generator is discharged into the hair treatment chamber. Locating the air outlet on one of the first and second arms may provide the air outlet in close proximity to the hair treatment chamber.
- the air outlet may be located on the same arm that houses the emitter. This may ensure that airflow is delivered to the same side of hair within the hair treatment chamber that is heated by radiation from the emitter. Airflow discharged into the hair treatment chamber through the air outlet may comprise a temperature less than 60° C., less than 50° C., or less than 40° C.
- the air outlet may comprise a length greater than or equal to a length of the emitter. This may ensure that airflow can be provided to remove evaporated liquid from the hair treatment chamber along the length of the emitter.
- the air outlet may extend along at least 50% of the length of the hair treatment chamber, for example along at least 60%, at least 70%, or at least 80% of the length of the hair treatment chamber.
- the air outlet may comprise a length that it at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, or at least 80%, of the length of the hair treatment chamber.
- the air outlet may comprise a width of less than or equal to 4 mm, for example less than or equal to 2 mm, less than or equal to 1.5 mm, or less than or equal to 1 mm.
- the air outlet may comprise a single aperture, for example a single continuous slot. This may enable a concentrated airflow to be provided along the length of the emitter, which may efficiently remove evaporated liquid from the hair treatment chamber in use.
- the haircare appliance may comprise an air inlet, the airflow generator may be configured to generate airflow from the air inlet to the air outlet along an airflow path, and the emitter may be disposed in the airflow path. This may be beneficial as the airflow may provide a cooling effect to the emitter, for example to provide a cooling effect to drive electronics of the emitter.
- the haircare appliance may be configured such that airflow within the hair treatment chamber in use has a temperature of less than 60° C., less than 50° C., or less than 40° C.
- the other of the second and first arms may comprise a further air outlet through which airflow from the airflow generator is discharged into the hair treatment chamber.
- Providing an air outlet on each of the first and second arms may allow for even distribution of airflow within the hair treatment chamber in use, and may provide for increased efficiency in removal of evaporated liquid from the hair treatment chamber. This may allow for even drying of opposing sides of hair located within the hair treatment chamber in use.
- the further air outlet may comprise a length corresponding substantially to a length of the emitter or the further emitter. This may ensure that airflow can be provided to remove evaporated liquid from the hair treatment chamber along the length of the emitter or the further emitter.
- the further air outlet may extend along at least 50% of the length of the hair treatment chamber, for example along at least 60%, at least 70%, or at least 80% of the length of the hair treatment chamber.
- the further air outlet may comprise a length that it at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, or at least 80%, of the length of the hair treatment chamber.
- the further air outlet may comprise a width of less than or equal to 4 mm, for example less than or equal to 2 mm, less than or equal to 1.5 mm, or less than or equal to 1 mm.
- Each of the first and second arms may comprise a hair contacting rib. This may enable hair to be clamped and tensioned between the first and second arms in a manner similar to a conventional hair straightener.
- the hair contacting ribs may oppose one another on the first and second arms.
- the hair contacting ribs may limit motion of the first and second arms relative to one another, for example such that the hair treatment chamber adopts a configuration with its minimal width when the hair contacting ribs are in contact with one another. This may ensure that hair is free to move within the hair treatment chamber in use.
- the airflow generator may be configured to generate airflow at a flow rate of greater than 4 L/s, greater than 8 L/s, greater than 10 L/s, or greater than 12 L/s. This may ensure that evaporated liquid is removed from the hair treatment chamber at a sufficient rate such that evaporated liquid does not negatively impact on dry times for hair located within the hair treatment chamber in use.
- the airflow generator may be configured to generate airflow at a flow rate of around 13 L/s.
- the airflow generator may comprise a motor driven impeller.
- the emitter may be configured to output radiation comprising a power density greater than 10 W/cm 2 , greater than 15 W/cm 2 , or greater than 20 W/cm 2 , for example for the power density measure at hair located within the hair treatment chamber.
- Such power densities may enable relatively quick dry times for hair located within the hair treatment chamber in use.
- the haircare appliance may comprise a power rating of greater than 1000 W, greater than 1500 W, or greater than 1600 W.
- the haircare appliance may comprise a first mode of operation in which the emitter is configured to output radiation comprising a first power density, and a second mode of operation in which the emitter is configured to output radiation comprising a second power density less than the first power density, and the first power density is greater than 10 W/cm 2 .
- This may enable the haircare appliance to operate in different modes, for example a first drying mode where high power density radiation is emitted to dry hair within the hair treatment cavity, and a second styling mode where lower power density radiation is emitted to style hair within the hair treatment cavity.
- the emitter may comprise a tungsten-halogen lamp.
- the haircare appliance may comprise a temperature sensor configured to sense a temperature of hair within the hair treatment chamber in use, and a controller to modify power supplied to the emitter and/or the further emitter in response to an output of the temperature sensor. This may provide a feedback loop which enables the emitter to provide only the power necessary for a given hair temperature, which may be indicative of a wetness of hair, which may provide increased efficiency compared to a corresponding arrangement without a temperature sensor. This may also enable automatic switching between the first and second modes, with may reduce a level of user interaction required with the haircare appliance.
- the temperature sensor may comprise a non-contact temperature sensor, for example an infrared temperature sensor.
- FIG. 2 is a first schematic cross-sectional view of the haircare appliance of FIG. 1 ;
- the power source 20 is a battery that is configured to supply DC electrical power to the airflow generator 18 and other electrical components of the haircare appliance such as infrared emitters 26 , 28 disposed in the first 14 and second 16 arms, as will be discussed hereafter. Although shown here as comprising a power source 20 , it will be appreciated that in alternative embodiments the haircare appliance may comprise an electrical connection for connecting to an AC mains power supply, with appropriate circuitry for converting the AC power to DC power for the airflow generator 18 , for example.
- the first 14 and second 16 arms are generally hollow, and each have a first section 36 and a second section 38 .
- the first sections 36 are located in the region of the main body 12 , and the first sections 36 have hollow portions (not shown) within which the main body 12 can be received to varying degrees depending on whether the first 14 and second 16 arms are in an open configuration, a closed configuration, or any state between the open and closed configurations.
- the first 14 and second 16 arms are typically biased toward the open configuration in the absence of any other applied forces, as seen in FIG. 1 .
- the first section 36 defines a handle portion of the haircare appliance 10 which can be grasped by a user to selectively move the first 14 and second 16 arms relative to one another.
- the second sections 38 of the first 14 and second 16 arms each house a respective infrared emitter 26 , 28 , and each comprise a hair contacting rib 42 , 44 , an air outlet 46 , 48 and an infrared transmissive window 50 , 52 , as can be seen from FIG. 4 .
- Each infrared emitter 26 , 28 extends along the length of the second section 38 of its respective arm 14 , 16 , with the infrared emitters 26 , 28 extending along at least 50% of the length of hair treatment chamber 40 , and in the embodiment of FIGS. 1 - 4 extending along around 75% of the length of the hair treatment chamber 40 .
- the infrared emitters 26 , 28 in the embodiment of FIGS. 1 - 4 are tungsten halogen lamps, which are incandescent sources of infrared radiation.
- Each hair contacting rib 42 , 44 extends along an inwardly facing surface of a respective one of the first 14 and second 16 arms. Each hair contacting rib 42 , 44 extends along the length of the second section 38 of its respective arm 14 , 16 , with the hair contacting ribs 42 , 44 extending along at least 50% of the length of hair treatment chamber 40 , and in the embodiment of FIGS. 1 - 4 extending along around 75% of the length of the hair treatment chamber 40 . Each hair contacting rib 42 , 44 has a length substantially corresponding to a length of a corresponding infrared emitter 26 , 28 , air outlet 46 , 48 and infrared transmissive window 50 , 52 .
- Each air outlet 46 , 48 is disposed on a respective arm 14 , 16 between a hair contacting rib 42 , 44 and a corresponding infrared transmissive window 50 , 52 .
- the air outlets 46 , 48 in the embodiment of FIGS. 1 - 4 comprise generally rectangular slots formed in a wall of the respective first 14 and second 16 arms, with each slot having a width of 2 mm or less, typically between 1-1.5 mm.
- a temperature sensor 54 is located within the first arm 14 adjacent to the infrared transmissive window 50 , and is configured to measure a surface temperature of hair within the hair treatment chamber 40 in use.
- the temperature sensor 54 is an infrared temperature sensor in the embodiment of FIGS. 1 - 4 .
- the haircare appliance 10 of FIGS. 1 - 4 has a first so-called “drying” mode in which the haircare appliance is configured to dry hair 56 located within the hair treatment chamber 40 .
- the first 14 and second arms 16 are moved to the closed configuration by application of pressure by a user, such that hair 56 is located within the hair treatment chamber 40 and tensioned by the hair contacting ribs 40 , 42 .
- the infrared emitters 26 , 28 are configured to emit infrared radiation having a peak wavelength in the region of 700 nm-1 mm, typically greater than 900 nm, and in some instances having a peak wavelength in the region of 2000-3000 nm.
- the emitted infrared radiation has a power density greater than 10 W/cm 2 , and in some instances a power density in the region of 20 W/cm 2 .
- Such infrared radiation may be particularly suited to drying hair at a relatively quick rate.
- the airflow generated by the airflow generator 18 is fed into the hair treatment chamber 40 via the air outlets 46 , 48 of the first 14 and second 16 arms, where it flows over hair located in the hair treatment chamber 40 before leaving via open sides of the hair treatment chamber 40 .
- This assists with the drying process by removing evaporated liquid from the hair treatment chamber 40 and may result in increased drying efficiency and reduced drying times, along with greater styling control.
- the airflow generator 18 is configured to generate airflow at a flow rate of greater than 4 L/s, and in some examples around 13 L/s, and such a flow rate has been found to be beneficial to drying efficiency.
- the minimal width of the hair treatment chamber 40 ie the minimal width of the hair treatment chamber when the first 14 and second 16 arms are in the closed configuration, is greater than 5 mm. This may avoid adverse pressures being experienced within the hair treatment chamber 40 in use.
- the temperature sensor 54 monitors a surface temperature of the hair within the hair treatment chamber 40 , and feeds back to the controller 22 .
- the controller 22 may then automatically control the airflow generator 18 and/or the infrared emitters 26 , 28 , for example to increase or decrease airflow rate and power or wavelength of emitted infrared radiation, or provide an alert to a user of the haircare appliance 10 , in response to the monitored temperature.
- the haircare appliance 10 has a second so-called “styling” mode where the infrared emitters 26 , 28 are configured to emit infrared radiation having a lower wavelength and/or lower power density than infrared radiation emitted in the first “drying mode”, and/or the airflow generator 18 is configured to generate airflow at a flow rate lower than the flow rate generated in the first “drying” mode. This may enable the haircare appliance 10 to provide flexibility and be utilised for both drying and styling hair.
- first 14 and second 16 arms pivotally connected to the main body, and with each of the first 14 and second 16 arms having a respective infrared emitter 26 , 28 and a respective air outlet 46 , 48 , it will be appreciated that other configurations of the haircare appliance 10 are also envisaged.
- first 14 and second 16 arms may be pivotally connected to the main body 12 .
- the airflow generator 18 and/or the power source 20 and/or the controller 22 are located in one of the first 14 and second 16 arms rather than in the main body 12 .
- only one of the arms 14 , 16 may comprise an infrared emitter 26 , 28 and an air outlet 46 , 48 , or one arm 14 , 16 may comprise an infrared emitter 26 , 28 with the other opposing arm 16 , 14 comprising an air outlet.
- the infrared emitter may be configured to emit infrared radiation having a peak wavelength greater than 900 nm, such that the haircare appliance 10 may be used to efficiently dry hair within the hair treatment chamber in use.
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- Cleaning And Drying Hair (AREA)
- Radiation-Therapy Devices (AREA)
Abstract
A haircare appliance is described having first and second arms that define a hair treatment chamber, an emitter configured to emit radiation into the hair treatment chamber, and an airflow generator configured to generate an airflow within the hair treatment chamber. The emitter includes an incandescent source of radiation.
Description
- The present invention relates to a haircare appliance.
- Conventional hair straighteners utilise heated plates to contact and style hair in use. Hair dryers are typically used to dry hair via convective heating of airflow. Such convective heating may be relatively inefficient.
- The present invention provides a haircare appliance comprising first and second arms that define a hair treatment chamber, an emitter configured to emit radiation into the hair treatment chamber, and an airflow generator configured to generate an airflow within the hair treatment chamber, wherein the emitter comprises an incandescent source of radiation.
- Use of an incandescent source may provide a greater power density, and hence quicker dry times for hair than, for example, an electroluminescent source. The emitter may comprise an infrared emitter configured to emit infrared radiation into the hair treatment chamber, for example with the infrared emitter comprising an incandescent source of infrared radiation.
- Use of an airflow generator configured to generate an airflow within the hair treatment chamber may enable air containing evaporated liquid within the hair treatment chamber to be removed from the chamber, and hence moved away from hair within the hair treatment chamber. This may reduce an impact of evaporated liquid on the drying or styling of hair within the hair treatment chamber in use.
- The haircare appliance may comprise a hair straightener. The first and second arms may oppose one another, for example such that the hair treatment chamber is defined between the first and second arms.
- The hair treatment chamber may be open to ambient air. For example at least one side of the chamber may be open to ambient air. This may enable air containing evaporated liquid to be removed from the hair treatment chamber in use, for example removed under action of the airflow from the airflow generator within the hair treatment chamber.
- The emitter may be configured to emit radiation having a peak wavelength in the region of 700 nm-1 mm. The emitter may be configured to emit infrared radiation comprising a peak wavelength greater than 900 nm. This may enable relatively quick drying of hair compared to, for example, an emitter configured to emit radiation having a peak wavelength less than 900 nm. The emitter may be configured to emit infrared radiation comprising a peak wavelength in the region of 1000-3500 nm, for example in the region of 2000-3000 nm. This may enable efficient drying of hair contained within the hair treatment chamber in use. The emitter may be configured to emit infrared radiation targeted to evaporate water. The emitter may be configured to emit infrared radiation comprising a peak wavelength of less than 1 mm. The emitter may be configured to emit broadband infrared radiation having a peak wavelength in the region of 1000-3500 nm, for example in the region of 2000-3000 nm.
- The emitter may be located in one of the first and second arms. This may locate the emitter in the region of the hair treatment chamber defined by the first and second arms, and may provide a relatively short route for the radiation to reach the hair treatment chamber when emitted by the emitter. The first and/or second arm may comprise an infrared transmissive window, for example a window through which infrared radiation emitted by the emitter can pass in use. The infrared transmissive window may have a length substantially corresponding to a length of the emitter.
- The emitter may extend along at least 50% of the length of the hair treatment chamber, for example along at least 60%, at least 70%, or at least 80% of the length of the hair treatment chamber. The emitter may comprise a length that it at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, or at least 80%, of the length of the hair treatment chamber. This may maximise an area of the hair treatment chamber within which drying of hair using radiation emitted by the emitter can occur, which may lead to a more efficient drying process.
- The infrared transmissive window may extend along at least 50% of the length of the hair treatment chamber, for example along at least 60%, at least 70%, or at least 80% of the length of the hair treatment chamber. The infrared transmissive window may comprise a length that it at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, or at least 80%, of the length of the hair treatment chamber. This may maximise an area of the hair treatment chamber within which drying of hair using infrared radiation emitted by the emitter can occur, which may lead to a more efficient drying process.
- The haircare appliance may comprise a further emitter located in the other of the second and first arms. This may enable a more efficient drying process by applying radiation to opposing sides of hair located within the hair treatment chamber in use. The further emitter may be configured to emit infrared radiation comprising a peak wavelength greater than 900 nm. This may enable relatively quick drying of hair compared to, for example, an emitter configured to emit radiation having a peak wavelength less than 900 nm.
- The emitter and the further emitter may be independently actuable, for example such that the haircare appliance may be operated within only one of the emitter and the further emitter turned on. This may enable greater flexibility in drying and/or styling than, for example an arrangement where both the emitter and the further emitter are not independently controlled. The further emitter may be configured to emit infrared radiation comprising a peak wavelength less than 900 nm. This may allow, for example, for the emitter to be used for drying of hair within the hair treatment chamber, and for the further emitter to be used for styling of hair within the hair treatment chamber, as radiation having a smaller wavelength may be more suitable for styling whilst radiation having a larger wavelength may be more suitable for drying.
- The second or first arm may comprise a further infrared transmissive window, for example a window through which infrared radiation emitted by the further emitter can pass in use. The further infrared transmissive window may have a length substantially corresponding to a length of the further emitter.
- The further emitter may comprise a length substantially corresponding to a length of the emitter. The further emitter may extend along at least 50% of the length of the hair treatment chamber, for example along at least 60%, at least 70%, or at least 80% of the length of the hair treatment chamber. The further emitter may comprise a length that it at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, or at least 80%, of the length of the hair treatment chamber. This may maximise an area of the hair treatment chamber within which drying of hair using radiation emitted by the further emitter can occur, which may lead to a more efficient drying process.
- The further infrared transmissive window may extend along at least 50% of the length of the hair treatment chamber, for example along at least 60%, at least 70%, or at least 80% of the length of the hair treatment chamber. The further infrared transmissive window may comprise a length that it at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, or at least 80%, of the length of the hair treatment chamber. This may maximise an area of the hair treatment chamber within which drying of hair using infrared radiation emitted by the further emitter can occur, which may lead to a more efficient drying process.
- One of the first and second arms may comprise an air outlet through which airflow from the airflow generator is discharged into the hair treatment chamber. Locating the air outlet on one of the first and second arms may provide the air outlet in close proximity to the hair treatment chamber. The air outlet may be located on the same arm that houses the emitter. This may ensure that airflow is delivered to the same side of hair within the hair treatment chamber that is heated by radiation from the emitter. Airflow discharged into the hair treatment chamber through the air outlet may comprise a temperature less than 60° C., less than 50° C., or less than 40° C.
- The air outlet may comprise a length greater than or equal to a length of the emitter. This may ensure that airflow can be provided to remove evaporated liquid from the hair treatment chamber along the length of the emitter. The air outlet may extend along at least 50% of the length of the hair treatment chamber, for example along at least 60%, at least 70%, or at least 80% of the length of the hair treatment chamber. The air outlet may comprise a length that it at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, or at least 80%, of the length of the hair treatment chamber. The air outlet may comprise a width of less than or equal to 4 mm, for example less than or equal to 2 mm, less than or equal to 1.5 mm, or less than or equal to 1 mm.
- The air outlet may comprise a single aperture, for example a single continuous slot. This may enable a concentrated airflow to be provided along the length of the emitter, which may efficiently remove evaporated liquid from the hair treatment chamber in use.
- The haircare appliance may comprise an air inlet, the airflow generator may be configured to generate airflow from the air inlet to the air outlet along an airflow path, and the emitter may be disposed in the airflow path. This may be beneficial as the airflow may provide a cooling effect to the emitter, for example to provide a cooling effect to drive electronics of the emitter. The haircare appliance may be configured such that airflow within the hair treatment chamber in use has a temperature of less than 60° C., less than 50° C., or less than 40° C.
- The other of the second and first arms may comprise a further air outlet through which airflow from the airflow generator is discharged into the hair treatment chamber. Providing an air outlet on each of the first and second arms may allow for even distribution of airflow within the hair treatment chamber in use, and may provide for increased efficiency in removal of evaporated liquid from the hair treatment chamber. This may allow for even drying of opposing sides of hair located within the hair treatment chamber in use.
- The further air outlet may comprise a length corresponding substantially to a length of the emitter or the further emitter. This may ensure that airflow can be provided to remove evaporated liquid from the hair treatment chamber along the length of the emitter or the further emitter. The further air outlet may extend along at least 50% of the length of the hair treatment chamber, for example along at least 60%, at least 70%, or at least 80% of the length of the hair treatment chamber. The further air outlet may comprise a length that it at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, or at least 80%, of the length of the hair treatment chamber. The further air outlet may comprise a width of less than or equal to 4 mm, for example less than or equal to 2 mm, less than or equal to 1.5 mm, or less than or equal to 1 mm.
- The further air outlet may comprise a single aperture, for example a single continuous slot. This may enable a concentrated airflow to be provided along the length of the emitter, which may efficiently remove evaporated liquid from the hair treatment chamber in use.
- The airflow generator may be configured to generate airflow from the air inlet to the further air outlet along a further airflow path, and the further emitter may be disposed in the further airflow path. This may be beneficial as the airflow may provide a cooling effect to the further emitter, for example to drive electronics of the further emitter.
- The first and second arms may be movable relative to one another to selectively vary a width of the hair treatment chamber, and the hair treatment chamber may have a minimal width of greater than or equal to 5 mm. Relative movement of the first and second arms to selectively vary a width of the hair treatment chamber may allow for accommodation of different volumes of hair, whilst ensuring that the hair treatment chamber has a minimal width of greater than or equal to 5 mm may ensure that pressure within the hair treatment chamber due to airflow is not excessive in use.
- Each of the first and second arms may comprise a hair contacting rib. This may enable hair to be clamped and tensioned between the first and second arms in a manner similar to a conventional hair straightener. The hair contacting ribs may oppose one another on the first and second arms. The hair contacting ribs may limit motion of the first and second arms relative to one another, for example such that the hair treatment chamber adopts a configuration with its minimal width when the hair contacting ribs are in contact with one another. This may ensure that hair is free to move within the hair treatment chamber in use.
- The airflow generator may be configured to generate airflow at a flow rate of greater than 4 L/s, greater than 8 L/s, greater than 10 L/s, or greater than 12 L/s. This may ensure that evaporated liquid is removed from the hair treatment chamber at a sufficient rate such that evaporated liquid does not negatively impact on dry times for hair located within the hair treatment chamber in use. The airflow generator may be configured to generate airflow at a flow rate of around 13 L/s.
- The airflow generator may comprise a motor driven impeller.
- The emitter may be configured to output radiation comprising a power density greater than 10 W/cm2, greater than 15 W/cm2, or greater than 20 W/cm2, for example for the power density measure at hair located within the hair treatment chamber. Such power densities may enable relatively quick dry times for hair located within the hair treatment chamber in use.
- The haircare appliance may comprise a power rating of greater than 1000 W, greater than 1500 W, or greater than 1600 W.
- The haircare appliance may comprise a first mode of operation in which the emitter is configured to output radiation comprising a first power density, and a second mode of operation in which the emitter is configured to output radiation comprising a second power density less than the first power density, and the first power density is greater than 10 W/cm2. This may enable the haircare appliance to operate in different modes, for example a first drying mode where high power density radiation is emitted to dry hair within the hair treatment cavity, and a second styling mode where lower power density radiation is emitted to style hair within the hair treatment cavity.
- The airflow generator may be configured to generate airflow at a first flow rate in the first mode of operation, and at a second flow rate less than the first flow rate in the second mode of operation. This may enable a high airflow rate to efficiently remove evaporated liquid from the hair treatment chamber when drying of hair takes place, but a lower, gentler, airflow rate to assist with styling.
- The emitter may comprise a tungsten-halogen lamp.
- The haircare appliance may comprise a temperature sensor configured to sense a temperature of hair within the hair treatment chamber in use, and a controller to modify power supplied to the emitter and/or the further emitter in response to an output of the temperature sensor. This may provide a feedback loop which enables the emitter to provide only the power necessary for a given hair temperature, which may be indicative of a wetness of hair, which may provide increased efficiency compared to a corresponding arrangement without a temperature sensor. This may also enable automatic switching between the first and second modes, with may reduce a level of user interaction required with the haircare appliance.
- The temperature sensor may comprise a non-contact temperature sensor, for example an infrared temperature sensor.
-
FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a haircare appliance according to the present invention; -
FIG. 2 is a first schematic cross-sectional view of the haircare appliance ofFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 3 is a second schematic cross-sectional view of the haircare appliance ofFIG. 1 , taken orthogonal to the first schematic cross-sectional view ofFIG. 2 ; and -
FIG. 4 is a third schematic cross-sectional view of the haircare appliance ofFIG. 1 , taken orthogonal to the first schematic cross-sectional view ofFIG. 2 and the second schematic cross-sectional view ofFIG. 3 . - A haircare appliance, generally designated 10, according to the present invention is shown schematically in
FIGS. 1-4 . - The
haircare appliance 10 comprises amain body 12 and first 14 and second 16 arms pivotally connected to themain body 12. Thehaircare appliance 10 may take the general form of a hair straightener. - The
main body 12 is generally tubular and hollow in form, and houses anairflow generator 18, apower source 20, and acontroller 22. Themain body 12 has anair inlet 24, which comprises a plurality of apertures, and theairflow generator 18 comprises a motor driven impeller to draw airflow into themain body 12 via theair inlet 24. An example of anappropriate airflow generator 18 is the Dyson® digital motor V9, produced by Dyson Technology Ltd. - The
power source 20 is a battery that is configured to supply DC electrical power to theairflow generator 18 and other electrical components of the haircare appliance such asinfrared emitters power source 20, it will be appreciated that in alternative embodiments the haircare appliance may comprise an electrical connection for connecting to an AC mains power supply, with appropriate circuitry for converting the AC power to DC power for theairflow generator 18, for example. - The
controller 22 is configured to control theairflow generator 18 and theinfrared emitters single controller 22 controlling both theairflow generator 18 and theinfrared emitters infrared emitters main body 12 has auser interface 30, which may take the form of buttons or a touch-sensitive display, for example, and first 32 and second 34 air outlets, illustrated schematically inFIG. 2 , which enable airflow from theairflow generator 18 to pass into the interior of the first 14 and second 16 arms. The first 32 and second 34 air outlets of themain body 12 may be flexible or extendible conduits to account for relative motion between the first 14 and second 16 arms and themain body 12 in use. - The first 14 and second 16 arms are generally hollow, and each have a
first section 36 and asecond section 38. Thefirst sections 36 are located in the region of themain body 12, and thefirst sections 36 have hollow portions (not shown) within which themain body 12 can be received to varying degrees depending on whether the first 14 and second 16 arms are in an open configuration, a closed configuration, or any state between the open and closed configurations. The first 14 and second 16 arms are typically biased toward the open configuration in the absence of any other applied forces, as seen inFIG. 1 . Thefirst section 36 defines a handle portion of thehaircare appliance 10 which can be grasped by a user to selectively move the first 14 and second 16 arms relative to one another. - The
second sections 38 of the first 14 and second 16 arms are spaced apart to define ahair treatment chamber 40 therebetween. Thehair treatment chamber 40 has a maximal width when the first 14 and second 16 arms are in the open configuration ofFIG. 1 , and a minimal width when the first 14 and second 16 arms are in the closed configuration illustrated inFIG. 4 . A user of thehaircare appliance 10 can selectively vary the width of thehair treatment chamber 40 between the maximal and minimal widths by applying pressure to the first 14 and second 16 arms, typically in the region of thefirst section 36. - The
second sections 38 of the first 14 and second 16 arms each house a respectiveinfrared emitter hair contacting rib air outlet infrared transmissive window FIG. 4 . - Each
infrared emitter second section 38 of itsrespective arm infrared emitters hair treatment chamber 40, and in the embodiment ofFIGS. 1-4 extending along around 75% of the length of thehair treatment chamber 40. Theinfrared emitters FIGS. 1-4 are tungsten halogen lamps, which are incandescent sources of infrared radiation. - Each
hair contacting rib hair contacting rib second section 38 of itsrespective arm hair contacting ribs hair treatment chamber 40, and in the embodiment ofFIGS. 1-4 extending along around 75% of the length of thehair treatment chamber 40. Eachhair contacting rib infrared emitter air outlet infrared transmissive window - The
hair contacting ribs hair treatment chamber 40, and eachhair contacting rib hair contacting ribs - The
hair treatment chamber 40 is defined between the first 14 and second 16 arms, with thehair contacting ribs hair treatment chamber 40 inFIG. 4 . Thehair contacting ribs hair contacting ribs hair 56 in use and the first 14 and second 16 arms cannot move closer together, thehair treatment chamber 40 is at its minimal width. An appropriate minimal width for thehair treatment chamber 40 is 5 mm or more, as will be discussed hereafter. - Each
air outlet air outlet second section 38 of itsrespective arm air outlets hair treatment chamber 40, and in the embodiment ofFIGS. 1-4 extending along around 75% of the length of thehair treatment chamber 40. Eachair outlet infrared emitter hair contacting rib infrared transmissive window - Each
air outlet respective arm hair contacting rib infrared transmissive window air outlets FIGS. 1-4 comprise generally rectangular slots formed in a wall of the respective first 14 and second 16 arms, with each slot having a width of 2 mm or less, typically between 1-1.5 mm. - In use, the
air outlets airflow generator 18 via the first 32 and second 34 air outlets of themain body 12. Theair outlets FIG. 4 , are angled obliquely relative to thehair contacting ribs infrared transmissive window hair treatment chamber 40 in use. Theinfrared emitters main body 12 and therespective air outlets infrared emitters infrared emitters - Each
infrared transmissive window infrared transmissive window second section 38 of itsrespective arm infrared transmissive windows hair treatment chamber 40, and in the embodiment ofFIGS. 1-4 extending along around 75% of the length of thehair treatment chamber 40. Eachair outlet infrared emitter hair contacting rib air outlet - The
infrared transmissive windows respective arms hair treatment chamber 40, as seen inFIG. 4 . Theinfrared transmissive windows infrared emitters infrared transmissive windows infrared emitters infrared emitters hair treatment chamber 40 in use. - A
temperature sensor 54 is located within thefirst arm 14 adjacent to theinfrared transmissive window 50, and is configured to measure a surface temperature of hair within thehair treatment chamber 40 in use. Thetemperature sensor 54 is an infrared temperature sensor in the embodiment ofFIGS. 1-4 . - The
haircare appliance 10 ofFIGS. 1-4 has a first so-called “drying” mode in which the haircare appliance is configured to dryhair 56 located within thehair treatment chamber 40. The first 14 andsecond arms 16 are moved to the closed configuration by application of pressure by a user, such thathair 56 is located within thehair treatment chamber 40 and tensioned by thehair contacting ribs infrared emitters - At the same time as introducing infrared radiation into the
hair treatment chamber 40 via theinfrared transmissive windows airflow generator 18 is fed into thehair treatment chamber 40 via theair outlets hair treatment chamber 40 before leaving via open sides of thehair treatment chamber 40. This assists with the drying process by removing evaporated liquid from thehair treatment chamber 40, and may result in increased drying efficiency and reduced drying times, along with greater styling control. - The
airflow generator 18 is configured to generate airflow at a flow rate of greater than 4 L/s, and in some examples around 13 L/s, and such a flow rate has been found to be beneficial to drying efficiency. In view of the flow rates used, the minimal width of thehair treatment chamber 40, ie the minimal width of the hair treatment chamber when the first 14 and second 16 arms are in the closed configuration, is greater than 5 mm. This may avoid adverse pressures being experienced within thehair treatment chamber 40 in use. - The temperature of airflow introduced into the
hair treatment chamber 40 is typically less than 60° C., for example less than 50° C., or less than 40° C., even where the airflow generated by theairflow generator 18 picks-up some heat through convective heating, for example where the airflow travels over drive electronics of aninfrared emitter - The
temperature sensor 54 monitors a surface temperature of the hair within thehair treatment chamber 40, and feeds back to thecontroller 22. Thecontroller 22 may then automatically control theairflow generator 18 and/or theinfrared emitters haircare appliance 10, in response to the monitored temperature. - In some embodiments the
haircare appliance 10 has a second so-called “styling” mode where theinfrared emitters airflow generator 18 is configured to generate airflow at a flow rate lower than the flow rate generated in the first “drying” mode. This may enable thehaircare appliance 10 to provide flexibility and be utilised for both drying and styling hair. - In some embodiments the
infrared emitters - Whilst described above with the first 14 and second 16 arms pivotally connected to the main body, and with each of the first 14 and second 16 arms having a respective
infrared emitter respective air outlet haircare appliance 10 are also envisaged. - For example, in some embodiments only one of the first 14 and second 16 arms may be pivotally connected to the
main body 12. Embodiments are also envisaged where theairflow generator 18 and/or thepower source 20 and/or thecontroller 22 are located in one of the first 14 and second 16 arms rather than in themain body 12. - In some alternative embodiments, only one of the
arms infrared emitter air outlet arm infrared emitter arm haircare appliance 10 may be used to efficiently dry hair within the hair treatment chamber in use.
Claims (21)
1: A haircare appliance comprising first and second arms that define a hair treatment chamber, an emitter configured to emit radiation into the hair treatment chamber, and an airflow generator configured to generate an airflow within the hair treatment chamber, wherein the emitter comprises an incandescent source of radiation.
2: The haircare appliance as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the emitter comprises an incandescent source of infrared radiation.
3: The haircare appliance as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the emitter is configured to emit radiation comprising a peak wavelength in the region of 700 nm-1 mm.
4: The haircare appliance as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the emitter extends along at least 50% of the length of the hair treatment chamber.
5: The haircare appliance as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the emitter is located in one of the first and second arms, and the haircare appliance comprises a further emitter located in the other of the second and first arms.
6: The haircare appliance as claimed in claim 5 , wherein the further emitter extends along at least 50% of the length of the hair treatment chamber.
7: The haircare appliance as claimed in claim 1 , wherein one of the first and second arms comprises an air outlet through which airflow from the airflow generator is discharged into the hair treatment chamber.
8: The haircare appliance as claimed in claim 7 , wherein the air outlet comprises a length greater than or equal to a length of the emitter.
9: The haircare appliance as claimed in claim 7 , wherein the air outlet comprises a single aperture.
10: The haircare appliance as claimed in claim 7 , wherein the air outlet has a maximal width of less than 4 mm.
11: The haircare appliance as claimed in claim 7 , wherein the haircare appliance comprises an air inlet, the airflow generator is configured to generate airflow from the air inlet to the air outlet along an airflow path, and the emitter is disposed in the airflow path.
12: The haircare appliance as claimed in claim 7 , wherein the other of the second and first arms comprises a further air outlet through which airflow from the airflow generator is discharged into the hair treatment chamber.
13: The haircare appliance as claimed in claim 12 , wherein the further air outlet comprises a length greater than or equal to a length of the emitter.
14: The haircare appliance as claimed in claim 12 , wherein the further air outlet comprises a single aperture.
15: The haircare appliance as claimed in claim 12 , wherein further the air outlet has a maximal width of less than 4 mm.
16: The haircare appliance as claimed in claim 1 , wherein each of the first and second arms comprises a hair contacting rib.
17: The haircare appliance as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the first and second arms are movable relative to one another to selectively vary a width of the hair treatment chamber, and the hair treatment chamber has a minimal width of greater than or equal to 5 mm.
18: The haircare appliance as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the emitter is configured to output radiation comprising a power density greater than 10 W/cm2.
19: The haircare appliance as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the haircare appliance comprises a first mode of operation in which the emitter is configured to output radiation comprising a first power density, and a second mode of operation in which the emitter is configured to output radiation comprising a second power density less than the first power density, and the first power density is greater than 10 W/cm2.
20: The haircare appliance as claimed in 19, wherein the airflow generator is configured to generate airflow at a first flow rate in the first mode of operation, and at a second flow rate less than the first flow rate in the second mode of operation.
21: The haircare appliance as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the haircare appliance comprises a temperature sensor configured to sense a temperature of hair within the hair treatment chamber in use, and a controller configured to modify power supplied to the emitter in response to an output of the temperature sensor.
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
GB2017311.8 | 2020-11-02 | ||
GB2017311.8A GB2600475B (en) | 2020-11-02 | 2020-11-02 | A haircare appliance |
PCT/GB2021/052661 WO2022090685A1 (en) | 2020-11-02 | 2021-10-14 | A haircare appliance |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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US20230404237A1 true US20230404237A1 (en) | 2023-12-21 |
Family
ID=73776410
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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US18/034,638 Pending US20230404237A1 (en) | 2020-11-02 | 2021-10-14 | Haircare appliance |
Country Status (4)
Country | Link |
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US (1) | US20230404237A1 (en) |
CN (1) | CN116507238A (en) |
GB (1) | GB2600475B (en) |
WO (1) | WO2022090685A1 (en) |
Family Cites Families (9)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
ATE413113T1 (en) * | 2004-08-17 | 2008-11-15 | Dickson Industrial Co Ltd | HAIRSTYLING APPARATUS |
US20100089413A1 (en) * | 2008-09-15 | 2010-04-15 | Clifford Wright | Hair straightening and drying device |
JP2013056023A (en) * | 2011-09-08 | 2013-03-28 | Panasonic Corp | Hair iron |
DE102012210273A1 (en) * | 2012-06-19 | 2013-12-19 | BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH | Hairdryer with radiation source |
KR101486480B1 (en) * | 2013-07-23 | 2015-01-27 | 이대범 | The hair heating device of hair iron |
JP6993289B2 (en) * | 2018-05-15 | 2022-01-13 | マクセル株式会社 | Hairdressing equipment |
GB2582558B (en) * | 2019-03-22 | 2022-08-10 | Dyson Technology Ltd | A hair styling appliance |
CN109757848A (en) * | 2019-03-28 | 2019-05-17 | 深圳市奋达科技股份有限公司 | A kind of hair-straightening device and straight hair device |
CN211581875U (en) * | 2019-10-15 | 2020-09-29 | 深圳市奋达科技股份有限公司 | Hair-straightening accessory and hair shaping and nursing device |
-
2020
- 2020-11-02 GB GB2017311.8A patent/GB2600475B/en active Active
-
2021
- 2021-10-14 WO PCT/GB2021/052661 patent/WO2022090685A1/en active Application Filing
- 2021-10-14 US US18/034,638 patent/US20230404237A1/en active Pending
- 2021-10-14 CN CN202180073624.4A patent/CN116507238A/en active Pending
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WO2022090685A1 (en) | 2022-05-05 |
CN116507238A (en) | 2023-07-28 |
GB2600475B (en) | 2024-03-27 |
GB2600475A (en) | 2022-05-04 |
GB202017311D0 (en) | 2020-12-16 |
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