US20240008618A1 - Attachment for a haircare appliance - Google Patents
Attachment for a haircare appliance Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20240008618A1 US20240008618A1 US18/021,834 US202118021834A US2024008618A1 US 20240008618 A1 US20240008618 A1 US 20240008618A1 US 202118021834 A US202118021834 A US 202118021834A US 2024008618 A1 US2024008618 A1 US 2024008618A1
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- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- airflow
- attachment
- discharged
- outlets
- members
- 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
- 238000007789 sealing Methods 0.000 description 6
- 230000008901 benefit Effects 0.000 description 4
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 3
- 230000000994 depressogenic effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000005381 potential energy Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000010586 diagram Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000010438 heat treatment Methods 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
- A45D20/48—Hair-drying combs or hair-drying brushes, with internal heating means
- A45D20/50—Hair-drying combs or hair-drying brushes, with internal heating means and provision for an air stream
-
- 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
- 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
- A45D20/122—Diffusers, e.g. for variable air flow
- A45D20/124—Diffusers, e.g. for variable air flow comprising rotating elements
-
- 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
-
- 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
Definitions
- This invention relates to an attachment for a haircare appliance, and to a haircare appliance comprising the attachment.
- a haircare appliance may comprise an attachment around which hair is wrapped to create curls. Air may be discharged from the attachment in order to encourage the hair to wrap around the attachment.
- the present invention provides an attachment for a haircare appliance comprising: an inlet for receiving an airflow; a plurality of outlets through which the airflow is discharged; and one or more members moveable between a first position and a second position, wherein the airflow is discharged from the outlets in a clockwise direction when the members are in the first position, and the airflow is discharged from the outlets in a counterclockwise direction when the members are in the second position.
- the outlets may comprise first outlets through which the airflow is discharged in a clockwise direction and second outlets through which the airflow is discharged in a counterclockwise direction, and the members may occlude the airflow to the second outlets when in the first position, and occlude the airflow to the first outlets when in the second position.
- Each of the members may rotate between the first position and the second position.
- Each of the members may rotate about a different, respective axis.
- Each outlet may comprise a slot that extends substantially along the length of the attachment.
- the airflow may be discharged from each outlet in a direction substantially tangential to an external surface of the attachment.
- the airflow discharged from each outlet may be attracted to an external surface of the attachment.
- the attachment may be generally cylindrical.
- the attachment may have a longitudinal axis and each outlet may comprise a slot that extends parallel to the longitudinal axis.
- the attachment may comprise an inner sleeve and an outer sleeve, the inner sleeve may comprise a plurality of openings, and outer sleeve may comprise a plurality of first openings and a plurality of second openings.
- the member is then one of the inner sleeve and the outer sleeve and rotates relative to the other of the inner sleeve and the outer sleeve.
- the openings of the inner sleeve align with the first openings of the outer sleeve such that the airflow is discharged in a clockwise direction.
- the openings of the inner sleeve align with the second openings of the outer sleeve such that the airflow is discharged in a counterclockwise direction.
- Each moveable member comprises a louvre
- the attachment may comprise a plurality of columns
- Each louvre then contacts a first column when in the first position, and contacts a second, different column when in the second position.
- Each louvre may contact the first column along a first edge of the louvre and a first outlet may be created along a second edge of the louvre when in the first position.
- Each louvre may additionally contact the second column along the second edge and a second outlet may be created along the first edge when in the second position. The airflow is then discharged from the first outlet in a clockwise direction, and the airflow is discharged from the second outlet in a counterclockwise direction.
- the attachment may comprise a user-actuated selector for moving the member between the first position and the second position.
- the selector may comprise a dial that rotates to move the member between the first position and the second position.
- the selector may be latched and has two stable positions corresponding to the first and second positions of the members.
- the present invention further provides a haircare appliance comprising a blower for generating an airflow, a plurality of outlets through which the airflow is discharged, and one or more members moveable between a first position and a second position, wherein the airflow is discharged from the outlets in a clockwise direction when the member is in the first position, and the airflow is discharged from the outlets in a counterclockwise direction when the member is in the second position.
- FIG. 1 illustrates a haircare appliance
- FIG. 2 is a simplified section through a handle unit of the haircare appliance
- FIG. 3 is a block diagram of electrical components of the handle unit
- FIG. 4 is an exploded view of an attachment of the haircare appliance
- FIG. 5 is a side view of the attachment
- FIG. 6 is a vertical section through the attachment
- FIG. 7 are horizontal sections through the attachment in which the attachment is configured to discharge airflow in (a) a clockwise direction, or (b) a counterclockwise direction;
- FIG. 8 illustrates a user changing the configuration of the attachment
- FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a second attachment
- FIG. 10 is an exploded view of the second attachment
- FIG. 11 are horizontal sections through the second attachment in which the attachment is configured to discharge airflow in (a) a clockwise direction, or (b) a counterclockwise direction;
- FIG. 12 are horizontal sections through a third attachment in which the attachment is configured to discharge airflow in (a) a clockwise direction, or (b) a counterclockwise direction;
- FIG. 13 are horizontal sections through a fourth attachment in which the attachment is configured to discharge airflow in (a) a clockwise direction, or (b) a counterclockwise direction;
- FIG. 14 are horizontal sections through a fifth attachment in which the attachment is configured to discharge airflow in (a) a clockwise direction, or (b) a counterclockwise direction;
- FIG. 15 are horizontal sections through a sixth attachment in which the attachment is configured to discharge airflow in (a) a clockwise direction, or (b) a counterclockwise direction;
- FIG. 16 is a horizontal section through a lower part of the second attachment of FIG. 9 .
- the handle unit 20 comprises a housing 30 , a blower 40 , a heater 50 and a control unit 60 .
- the housing 30 is tubular in shape and comprises an inlet 31 through which an airflow is drawn into the housing 30 by the blower 40 , and an outlet 32 through which the airflow is discharged from the housing 30 .
- the blower 40 is housed within the housing 30 and comprises a fan 41 driven by an electric motor 42 .
- the heater 50 is also housed within the housing 30 and comprises heating elements 51 to optionally heat the airflow.
- the control unit 60 comprises user controls 61 and a control module 62 .
- the user controls 61 are provided on the surface of the housing 30 and are used to power on and off the haircare appliance 10 , to select a flow rate (e.g. high, medium, low), and to select an air temperature (e.g. hot, warm, cold).
- a flow rate e.g. high, medium, low
- an air temperature e.g. hot, warm, cold.
- each of the user controls 61 comprises a sliding switch.
- other forms of user control may be used such as buttons, dials or touchscreen.
- the attachment 100 comprises a barrel 110 and a dial 120 .
- the inner sleeve 140 sits within the outer sleeve 150 and comprises a plurality of slots 141 that extend along the length of the inner sleeve 140 .
- the inner sleeve 140 comprises five slots 141 .
- the outer sleeve 150 comprises a plurality of openings 151 arranged into columns that extend along the length of the outer sleeve 150 . More particularly, the openings 151 are arranged into pairs of columns 152 , 153 that are spaced evenly around the outer sleeve 150 . Again, in the particular example shown in the Figures, the outer sleeve 150 comprises five pairs of columns 152 , 153 . Each pair of columns 152 , 153 is separated by a spine 154 .
- Each of the slats 160 is attached to one of the spines 154 of the outer sleeve 150 , e.g. by snap fit. Each slat 160 extends either side of the spine 154 and overlies each of the columns of openings 152 , 153 . The edges of the slat 160 are spaced radially from the outer sleeve 150 to create two slots 113 a , 113 b between the slat 160 and the outer sleeve 150 that extend along the length of the barrel 110 . Each of the slots 113 a , 113 b defines an outlet 113 of the barrel 110 .
- the inner sleeve 140 is moveable relative to the outer sleeve 150 . More particularly, the inner sleeve 140 rotates relative to the outer sleeve 150 about the longitudinal axis 114 of the barrel 110 .
- the inner sleeve 140 is moveable between a first position and a second position. In the first position, shown in FIG. 7 ( a ) , each of the slots 141 in the inner sleeve 140 is aligned with a first column of openings 152 in the outer sleeve 140 . In the second position, should in FIG. 7 ( b ) , each of the slots 141 in the inner sleeve 140 is aligned with a second column of openings 153 in the outer sleeve 140 .
- the airflow generated by the handle unit 20 enters the interior 112 of the barrel 110 via the inlet 111 . From there, the airflow moves radially outward through the slots 141 in the inner sleeve 140 . The airflow then passes through the openings 151 in the outer sleeve 150 . More particularly, the airflow passes through either the first columns of openings 152 or the second columns of openings 153 in the outer sleeve 150 , according to the position of the inner sleeve 140 . When the inner sleeve 140 is in the first position ( FIG. 7 ( a ) ), the airflow passes through each first column of openings 152 .
- the airflow is then turned by the slats 160 in a clockwise direction. As a result, the airflow is discharged from the barrel 110 in a clockwise direction.
- the inner sleeve 150 is in the second position ( FIG. 7 ( b ) )
- the airflow passes through each second column of openings 153 .
- the airflow is then turned by the slats 160 in a counterclockwise direction, and the airflow is discharged from the barrel 110 in a counterclockwise direction. Accordingly, by changing the position of the inner sleeve 150 , the direction of the airflow discharged from the barrel 110 may be changed from clockwise to counterclockwise.
- the airflow discharged from the outlets 113 is attracted to the curved surface of the barrel 110 by the Coanda effect.
- hair presented to the attachment 100 is attracted to and wraps around the barrel 110 .
- the haircare appliance 10 may therefore be used to curl hair, with the direction of the curl being determined by the direction of the airflow.
- FIGS. 9 to 11 illustrate a further attachment 200 which, like the attachment of FIGS. 4 to 7 , comprises a barrel 210 and a dial 220 .
- the barrel 210 comprises an inner sleeve 240 , a plurality of louvres 250 , and a knob 260 .
- the inner sleeve 240 is generally cylindrical in shape, is open at a bottom end and closed at a top end.
- a plurality of slots 241 extend along the length of the sleeve 240 .
- the slots 241 are relatively wide and thus the inner sleeve 240 may be regarded as having columns 242 that extend upwards from the bottom to the top of the sleeve 240 .
- the inner sleeve comprises five slots 241 and five columns 242 .
- each louvre 250 contacts a first column 242 a of the sleeve 240 along a first edge 250 a of the louvre 250 .
- a gap or slot 213 a is then created between the louvre 250 and the inner sleeve 240 along a second edge 250 b of the louvre 250 .
- each louvre 250 contacts a second column 242 b of the sleeve 240 along the second edge 250 b of the louvre 250 , and a gap or slot 213 b is created between the louvre 250 and the inner sleeve 240 along the first edge 250 a .
- Each of the slots 213 a , 213 b defines an outlet 213 of the barrel 210 .
- FIG. 11 when the louvres 250 are in the first position ( FIG. 11 ( a ) ), the airflow is discharged from the barrel 210 in a clockwise direction and when the louvres 250 are in the second position ( FIG. 11 ( b ) ), the airflow is discharged in a counterclockwise direction.
- Each column 242 may comprise a sealing element(s) that engages with the first edge 250 a of a louvre 250 when the louvres are in the first position, and engages with the second edge 250 b of a louvre 250 when the louvres are in the second position.
- the sealing element may comprise a compressible material, which then enables the sealing element to deform to provide an effective seal between the column 242 and the louvres 250 .
- Each of the louvres 250 comprises vanes 252 that extend circumferentially around the inner surface of the louvre 250 .
- the vanes 252 turn the airflow from a generally vertical direction (i.e. parallel to the longitudinal axis of the barrel) to a generally horizontal direction (i.e. normal to the longitudinal axis of the barrel).
- the airflow is discharged from the outlets 213 in a generally circumferential direction. This then better encourages the airflow to wrap around the barrel 210 .
- the dial 220 resembles a star-shaped wheel that surrounds the bottom of the inner sleeve 240 .
- the dial 220 comprises slots 221 into which the legs 251 of the louvres 250 are received.
- the dial 220 is rotatable relative to the inner sleeve 250 . More particularly, the dial 220 is rotatable about the longitudinal axis of the barrel 210 . Rotating the dial 220 clockwise and counterclockwise causes each of the louvres 250 to pivot between the first position and the second position. Consequently, the dial 220 may be used to change the direction in which the airflow is discharged from the barrel 210 .
- the knob 260 is attached to the top of the inner sleeve 240 and is isolated from the airflow moving within the barrel 210 .
- the knob 260 therefore provides a relatively cool area of the barrel 210 which a user may grip when manipulating the haircare appliance 10 .
- the attachments 100 , 200 described above change the direction of the airflow in different ways. However, common to each is the presence of a member(s) (e.g. the inner sleeve 140 of FIGS. 4 to 7 or the louvres 250 of FIGS. 9 to 11 ) that moves between a first position and a second position.
- the airflow is then discharged from the attachment in a clockwise direction when the member(s) is in the first position, and the airflow is discharged in a counterclockwise direction when the member(s) is in the second position.
- each of the attachments 100 , 200 may be said to have first outlets 113 a , 213 a through which the airflow is discharged in a clockwise direction and second outlets 113 b , 213 b through which the airflow is discharged in a counterclockwise direction.
- the member(s) 140 , 250 then occludes the airflow to the second outlets 113 b , 213 b when in the first position, and occludes the airflow to the first outlets 113 a , 213 a when in the second position.
- the barrel 110 may be said to have a first outlets 113 a and second outlets 113 b formed between the slats 160 and the outer sleeve 150 .
- the airflow is discharged in a clockwise direction through the first outlets 113 a ( FIG. 7 ( a ) ) and in a counterclockwise direction through the second outlets 113 b ( FIG. 7 ( b ) ).
- the inner sleeve 150 i.e. the member
- the inner sleeve 150 is moveable from a first position in which the sleeve 150 occludes the path of the airflow to the second outlets 113 b ( FIG. 7 ( a ) ) to a second position in which the sleeve 150 occludes the path of the airflow to the first outlets 113 a ( FIG. 7 ( b ) ).
- FIGS. 12 to 15 illustrate further arrangements for achieving a change in the direction of the airflow.
- FIG. 12 illustrates a third arrangement for an attachment 300 in which the barrel 310 comprises four segments 320 .
- Each segment 320 pivots about an axis 325 that is offset from the longitudinal axis of the barrel 310 .
- Each segment 320 pivots between a first position ( FIG. 12 ( a ) ) and a second position ( FIG. 12 ( b ) ). In the first position, a first edge of an outer wall 321 of the segment abuts an inner wall 322 of an adjacent segment, and a second edge of the outer wall 321 is spaced radially beyond the outer wall of another adjacent segment.
- each segment 320 is formed on one side of each segment 320 and an outlet is formed on the other side.
- the four segments 320 pivot in unison such that outlets are formed on the same side of each segment 320 simultaneously.
- the segments 320 are in the first position ( FIG. 12 ( a ) )
- the airflow is discharged from first outlets 313 a in a clockwise direction.
- the segments are in the second position ( FIG. 12 ( b )
- the airflow is discharged from second outlets 313 b in a counterclockwise direction.
- FIG. 13 illustrates a fourth arrangement for an attachment 400 in which the barrel 410 comprises four pairs of blades 421 , 422 .
- Each pair of blades 421 , 422 pivot about an axis 423 located midway between the two blades.
- Each first blade 421 of a pair is connected along an edge to an edge of a second blade 422 of an adjacent pair by an elastic element 430 .
- the four pairs of blades pivot in unison between a first position ( FIG. 13 ( a ) ) and a second position ( FIG. 13 ( b ) ). When in the first position, the first blade 421 of each pair is on the outside, and the second blade 422 of each pair is on the inside.
- each pair of blades 421 , 422 pivots in a counterclockwise direction when moving from the first position ( FIG. 13 ( a ) ) to the second position ( FIG. 13 ( b ) ).
- the elastic element 430 is stretched around the exterior of the first blade 421 of each pair of blades and is pulled taught. Airflow is then discharged from first outlets 413 a in a clockwise direction via channels 424 between each pair of blades.
- the elastic member 430 is instead stretched around the exterior of the second blade 422 of each pair of blades. Air is then discharged from second outlets 413 b in a counterclockwise direction via the channels 424 .
- FIG. 14 illustrates a fifth arrangement for an attachment 500 in which the barrel 510 comprises an inner sleeve 520 , an outer sleeve 530 , and a plurality of columns 540 .
- Each column 540 pivots or rotates about its respective center between a first position ( FIG. 14 ( a ) ) and a second position ( FIG. 14 ( b ) ).
- the inner sleeve 520 and the outer sleeve 530 define pairs of channels 551 , 552 .
- each column 540 opens a first channel 551 of the pair of channels and closes a second channel 552 .
- the airflow is then discharged through first outlets 513 a in a clockwise direction ( FIG.
- each column 540 closes the first channel 551 and opens a second channel 552 .
- the airflow is then discharged through second outlets 513 b in a counterclockwise direction ( FIG. 14 ( b ) ).
- All five columns 540 are arranged to move in unison such that the airflow is discharged in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction over the outer surface of the barrel 510 .
- the provision of the inner sleeve 520 encourages the airflow to move circumferentially before being discharged from the outlets. This then improves the attraction of the exiting airflow to the surface of the barrel 510 , i.e. the Coanda effect. Nevertheless, the inner sleeve 520 could conceivably be omitted.
- FIG. 15 illustrates a sixth arrangement for an attachment 600 in which the barrel 610 comprises a plurality of columns 620 , and a plurality of moving elements 630 .
- Each moving element 630 is positioned between a pair of columns 620 .
- the moving elements 630 rotate collectively about the longitudinal axis of the barrel between a first position ( FIG. 15 ( a ) ) and a second position ( FIG. 15 ( b ) ).
- Each moving element 630 is narrower than the circumferential gap between adjacent columns. As a result, an outlet is created between each moving element 630 and the columns 620 . More particularly, when the moving elements 630 are in the first position ( FIG.
- first outlets 613 a are created through which the airflow is discharged in a clockwise direction.
- second outlets 613 b are created through which the airflow is discharged in a counterclockwise direction.
- each attachment has a first configuration in which the airflow is discharged in a clockwise direction and a second configuration in which the airflow is discharged in a counterclockwise direction.
- the airflow is discharged from the outlets in a direction substantially tangential to the external surface of the barrel.
- the airflow discharged from the outlets is attracted to the external surface by the Coanda effect. This then has the benefit that hair presented to the attachment is attracted to and wraps around the barrel.
- the attachment may have additional configurations in which the airflow discharged from the outlets is not tangential to the external surface of the barrel.
- the attachment may have a third configuration in which the airflow is discharged from the outlets in a direction substantially perpendicular to the external surface of the barrel. This may be useful to provide the user with a diffuser-type option, for example, once the hair has been wrapped and the user would like to dry the hair.
- the attachments described above each comprise a dial for selecting clockwise or counterclockwise airflow.
- the provision of a dial, which rotates about the longitudinal axis of the attachment provides the user with a relatively intuitive way for changing the direction of the airflow.
- the user may rotate the dial clockwise and counterclockwise in order to select respectively clockwise and counterclockwise airflow.
- the haircare appliance may comprise an alternative type of selector that may be actuated by a user in order to select clockwise or counterclockwise airflow.
- the dial or other user-actuated selector may be latched and may have two stable positions corresponding to the first and second positions of the moveable member(s). This then has the advantage that the dial, and thus the moveable member(s), are less likely to be moved inadvertently during use of the haircare appliance. Additionally, the moveable member(s) are more likely to be in the correct position since the dial may be automatically latched into position upon rotation. The user is not therefore required to accurately position the dial during use.
- a first stable position of the latching mechanism 1000 is to the right of line Y-Y. Up the line Y-Y, from the right, the latching mechanism 1000 will encourage the louvres 250 (i.e.
- Each of the attachments is removably attached to a handle unit. This then has the advantage that the handle unit may be used with other types of attachment, such as a styling brush or hair dryer nozzle. Nevertheless, the haircare appliance could conceivably comprise an attachment that is permanently attached to the handle unit.
Abstract
An attachment is described for a haircare appliance. The attachment includes an inlet for receiving an airflow, and a plurality of outlets through which the airflow is discharged. The attachment further includes one or more members moveable between a first position and a second position. The airflow is discharged from the outlets in a clockwise direction when the members are in the first position, and the airflow is discharged from the outlets in a counterclockwise direction when the members are in the second position.
Description
- This invention relates to an attachment for a haircare appliance, and to a haircare appliance comprising the attachment.
- A haircare appliance may comprise an attachment around which hair is wrapped to create curls. Air may be discharged from the attachment in order to encourage the hair to wrap around the attachment.
- The present invention provides an attachment for a haircare appliance comprising: an inlet for receiving an airflow; a plurality of outlets through which the airflow is discharged; and one or more members moveable between a first position and a second position, wherein the airflow is discharged from the outlets in a clockwise direction when the members are in the first position, and the airflow is discharged from the outlets in a counterclockwise direction when the members are in the second position.
- The outlets may comprise first outlets through which the airflow is discharged in a clockwise direction and second outlets through which the airflow is discharged in a counterclockwise direction, and the members may occlude the airflow to the second outlets when in the first position, and occlude the airflow to the first outlets when in the second position.
- Each of the members may rotate between the first position and the second position.
- Each of the members may rotate about a different, respective axis.
- Each outlet may comprise a slot that extends substantially along the length of the attachment.
- The airflow may be discharged from each outlet in a direction substantially tangential to an external surface of the attachment.
- The airflow discharged from each outlet may be attracted to an external surface of the attachment.
- The attachment may be generally cylindrical.
- The attachment may have a longitudinal axis and each outlet may comprise a slot that extends parallel to the longitudinal axis.
- The attachment may comprise an inner sleeve and an outer sleeve, the inner sleeve may comprise a plurality of openings, and outer sleeve may comprise a plurality of first openings and a plurality of second openings. The member is then one of the inner sleeve and the outer sleeve and rotates relative to the other of the inner sleeve and the outer sleeve. When the member is in the first position, the openings of the inner sleeve align with the first openings of the outer sleeve such that the airflow is discharged in a clockwise direction. When the member is in the second position, the openings of the inner sleeve align with the second openings of the outer sleeve such that the airflow is discharged in a counterclockwise direction.
- Each moveable member comprises a louvre, and the attachment may comprise a plurality of columns Each louvre then contacts a first column when in the first position, and contacts a second, different column when in the second position.
- Each louvre may contact the first column along a first edge of the louvre and a first outlet may be created along a second edge of the louvre when in the first position. Each louvre may additionally contact the second column along the second edge and a second outlet may be created along the first edge when in the second position. The airflow is then discharged from the first outlet in a clockwise direction, and the airflow is discharged from the second outlet in a counterclockwise direction.
- The attachment may comprise a user-actuated selector for moving the member between the first position and the second position.
- The selector may comprise a dial that rotates to move the member between the first position and the second position.
- The selector may be latched and has two stable positions corresponding to the first and second positions of the members.
- The present invention further provides a haircare appliance comprising a blower for generating an airflow, a plurality of outlets through which the airflow is discharged, and one or more members moveable between a first position and a second position, wherein the airflow is discharged from the outlets in a clockwise direction when the member is in the first position, and the airflow is discharged from the outlets in a counterclockwise direction when the member is in the second position.
- Embodiments will now be described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:
-
FIG. 1 illustrates a haircare appliance; -
FIG. 2 is a simplified section through a handle unit of the haircare appliance; -
FIG. 3 is a block diagram of electrical components of the handle unit; -
FIG. 4 is an exploded view of an attachment of the haircare appliance; -
FIG. 5 is a side view of the attachment; -
FIG. 6 is a vertical section through the attachment; -
FIG. 7 are horizontal sections through the attachment in which the attachment is configured to discharge airflow in (a) a clockwise direction, or (b) a counterclockwise direction; -
FIG. 8 illustrates a user changing the configuration of the attachment; -
FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a second attachment; -
FIG. 10 is an exploded view of the second attachment; -
FIG. 11 are horizontal sections through the second attachment in which the attachment is configured to discharge airflow in (a) a clockwise direction, or (b) a counterclockwise direction; -
FIG. 12 are horizontal sections through a third attachment in which the attachment is configured to discharge airflow in (a) a clockwise direction, or (b) a counterclockwise direction; -
FIG. 13 are horizontal sections through a fourth attachment in which the attachment is configured to discharge airflow in (a) a clockwise direction, or (b) a counterclockwise direction; -
FIG. 14 are horizontal sections through a fifth attachment in which the attachment is configured to discharge airflow in (a) a clockwise direction, or (b) a counterclockwise direction; -
FIG. 15 are horizontal sections through a sixth attachment in which the attachment is configured to discharge airflow in (a) a clockwise direction, or (b) a counterclockwise direction; and -
FIG. 16 is a horizontal section through a lower part of the second attachment ofFIG. 9 . - The
haircare appliance 10 ofFIGS. 1 to 3 comprises ahandle unit 20 and anattachment 100 removably attachable to thehandle unit 20. - The
handle unit 20 comprises ahousing 30, ablower 40, aheater 50 and acontrol unit 60. - The
housing 30 is tubular in shape and comprises aninlet 31 through which an airflow is drawn into thehousing 30 by theblower 40, and anoutlet 32 through which the airflow is discharged from thehousing 30. Theblower 40 is housed within thehousing 30 and comprises afan 41 driven by anelectric motor 42. Theheater 50 is also housed within thehousing 30 and comprisesheating elements 51 to optionally heat the airflow. - The
control unit 60 comprisesuser controls 61 and acontrol module 62. - The
user controls 61 are provided on the surface of thehousing 30 and are used to power on and off thehaircare appliance 10, to select a flow rate (e.g. high, medium, low), and to select an air temperature (e.g. hot, warm, cold). In this example, each of theuser controls 61 comprises a sliding switch. However, other forms of user control may be used such as buttons, dials or touchscreen. - The
control module 62 is responsible for controlling theblower 40 and theheater 50 in response to inputs from theuser controls 61. For example, in response to inputs from the user controls, thecontrol module 62 may control the power or speed of theblower 40 in order to adjust the flow rate of the airflow, and the power of theheater 50 in order to adjust the temperature of the airflow. - Referring now to
FIGS. 4 to 8 , theattachment 100 comprises abarrel 110 and adial 120. - The
barrel 110 is cylindrical in shape, is open at one end and is closed at the other end. The open end serves as aninlet 111 to theinterior 112 of thebarrel 110. A plurality ofoutlets 113 are formed around the side the barrel. Eachoutlet 113 comprises a slot that extends along the length of thebarrel 110, and theoutlets 113 are spaced evenly around alongitudinal axis 114 of thebarrel 110. - The
barrel 110 comprises aninner sleeve 140, anouter sleeve 150, and a plurality ofslats 160. Theinner sleeve 140 and theouter sleeve 150 are each cylindrical in shape. - The
inner sleeve 140 sits within theouter sleeve 150 and comprises a plurality ofslots 141 that extend along the length of theinner sleeve 140. In the particular example shown in the Figures, theinner sleeve 140 comprises fiveslots 141. - The
outer sleeve 150 comprises a plurality ofopenings 151 arranged into columns that extend along the length of theouter sleeve 150. More particularly, theopenings 151 are arranged into pairs ofcolumns outer sleeve 150. Again, in the particular example shown in the Figures, theouter sleeve 150 comprises five pairs ofcolumns columns spine 154. - Each of the
slats 160 is attached to one of thespines 154 of theouter sleeve 150, e.g. by snap fit. Eachslat 160 extends either side of thespine 154 and overlies each of the columns ofopenings slat 160 are spaced radially from theouter sleeve 150 to create twoslots slat 160 and theouter sleeve 150 that extend along the length of thebarrel 110. Each of theslots outlet 113 of thebarrel 110. - The
inner sleeve 140 is moveable relative to theouter sleeve 150. More particularly, theinner sleeve 140 rotates relative to theouter sleeve 150 about thelongitudinal axis 114 of thebarrel 110. Theinner sleeve 140 is moveable between a first position and a second position. In the first position, shown inFIG. 7(a) , each of theslots 141 in theinner sleeve 140 is aligned with a first column ofopenings 152 in theouter sleeve 140. In the second position, should inFIG. 7(b) , each of theslots 141 in theinner sleeve 140 is aligned with a second column ofopenings 153 in theouter sleeve 140. - During use, when the
attachment 100 is attached to thehandle unit 20, the airflow generated by thehandle unit 20 enters theinterior 112 of thebarrel 110 via theinlet 111. From there, the airflow moves radially outward through theslots 141 in theinner sleeve 140. The airflow then passes through theopenings 151 in theouter sleeve 150. More particularly, the airflow passes through either the first columns ofopenings 152 or the second columns ofopenings 153 in theouter sleeve 150, according to the position of theinner sleeve 140. When theinner sleeve 140 is in the first position (FIG. 7(a) ), the airflow passes through each first column ofopenings 152. The airflow is then turned by theslats 160 in a clockwise direction. As a result, the airflow is discharged from thebarrel 110 in a clockwise direction. When theinner sleeve 150 is in the second position (FIG. 7(b) ), the airflow passes through each second column ofopenings 153. The airflow is then turned by theslats 160 in a counterclockwise direction, and the airflow is discharged from thebarrel 110 in a counterclockwise direction. Accordingly, by changing the position of theinner sleeve 150, the direction of the airflow discharged from thebarrel 110 may be changed from clockwise to counterclockwise. - The
dial 120 is provided at the top of thebarrel 110 and is attached to the inner sleeve 140 (in this example, by means of a screw 170). Thedial 120 may be used to move theinner sleeve 140 between the first and second positions. For example, as illustrated inFIG. 8 , a user may grip and twist or rotate thedial 120 so as to move the inner sleeve between the two positions. As a result, a user is able to change the direction in which the airflow is discharged from thebarrel 110. More particularly, a user is able to select whether the airflow is discharged in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction. - With the
haircare appliance 10 described above, a user is able to change the direction of the airflow discharged from theattachment 100. In particular, by rotating thedial 120 at the top of theattachment 100, a user is able to select either clockwise or counterclockwise airflow. The direction of the airflow may therefore be changed without having to switch or change attachments. - The airflow discharged from the
outlets 113 is attracted to the curved surface of thebarrel 110 by the Coanda effect. As a result, hair presented to theattachment 100 is attracted to and wraps around thebarrel 110. Thehaircare appliance 10 may therefore be used to curl hair, with the direction of the curl being determined by the direction of the airflow. By providing asingle attachment 100 that is capable of delivering both clockwise and counterclockwise airflow, a user is able to quickly and conveniently change the direction in which curls are formed. - Changes in the direction of the airflow are brought about by the movement of the
inner sleeve 140 relative to theouter sleeve 150. However, as will now be explained, changes in the direction of the airflow may be brought about by other means. -
FIGS. 9 to 11 illustrate afurther attachment 200 which, like the attachment ofFIGS. 4 to 7 , comprises abarrel 210 and adial 220. - The
barrel 210 is again generally cylindrical in shape, is open at one end and is closed at the other end. The open end serves as aninlet 211 to theinterior 212 of thebarrel 210, and a plurality ofoutlets 213 are formed along the side thebarrel 210. Eachoutlet 213 comprises a slot, and theoutlets 213 are spaced evenly around the longitudinal axis of thebarrel 210. - The
barrel 210 comprises aninner sleeve 240, a plurality oflouvres 250, and aknob 260. - The
inner sleeve 240 is generally cylindrical in shape, is open at a bottom end and closed at a top end. A plurality ofslots 241 extend along the length of thesleeve 240. Theslots 241 are relatively wide and thus theinner sleeve 240 may be regarded as havingcolumns 242 that extend upwards from the bottom to the top of thesleeve 240. In the particular example shown in the Figures, the inner sleeve comprises fiveslots 241 and fivecolumns 242. - Each of the
louvres 250 covers arespective slot 241 in theinner sleeve 240. A top end of eachlouvre 250 is pivotally attached to the top of theinner sleeve 240. A bottom end of each louvre comprises pins orlegs 251 that are received withinslots 221 in thedial 220. Each of thelouvres 250 pivots between a first position and a second position. The pivot point of eachlouvre 250 is offset from the longitudinal axis 214 of thebarrel 210. This is perhaps best appreciated inFIG. 10 , in which it can be seen that eachlouvre 250 is pivotally connected to theinner sleeve 240 atpositions 243 that are offset from the centre. Consequently, when in the first position, as shown inFIG. 11(a) , eachlouvre 250 contacts afirst column 242 a of thesleeve 240 along afirst edge 250 a of thelouvre 250. A gap or slot 213 a is then created between thelouvre 250 and theinner sleeve 240 along asecond edge 250 b of thelouvre 250. When in the second position, as shown inFIG. 11(b) , eachlouvre 250 contacts asecond column 242 b of thesleeve 240 along thesecond edge 250 b of thelouvre 250, and a gap or slot 213 b is created between thelouvre 250 and theinner sleeve 240 along thefirst edge 250 a. Each of theslots outlet 213 of thebarrel 210. As can be seen inFIG. 11 , when thelouvres 250 are in the first position (FIG. 11(a) ), the airflow is discharged from thebarrel 210 in a clockwise direction and when thelouvres 250 are in the second position (FIG. 11(b) ), the airflow is discharged in a counterclockwise direction. - Each
column 242 may comprise a sealing element(s) that engages with thefirst edge 250 a of alouvre 250 when the louvres are in the first position, and engages with thesecond edge 250 b of alouvre 250 when the louvres are in the second position. As a result, the airflow is impeded from leaking between theedges louvres 250 and thecolumns 242. The sealing element may comprise a compressible material, which then enables the sealing element to deform to provide an effective seal between thecolumn 242 and thelouvres 250. - Each of the
louvres 250 comprisesvanes 252 that extend circumferentially around the inner surface of thelouvre 250. As the airflow moves from theinlet 211 of thebarrel 210 to each of theoutlets 213, thevanes 252 turn the airflow from a generally vertical direction (i.e. parallel to the longitudinal axis of the barrel) to a generally horizontal direction (i.e. normal to the longitudinal axis of the barrel). As a result, the airflow is discharged from theoutlets 213 in a generally circumferential direction. This then better encourages the airflow to wrap around thebarrel 210. - The
dial 220 resembles a star-shaped wheel that surrounds the bottom of theinner sleeve 240. Thedial 220 comprisesslots 221 into which thelegs 251 of thelouvres 250 are received. Thedial 220 is rotatable relative to theinner sleeve 250. More particularly, thedial 220 is rotatable about the longitudinal axis of thebarrel 210. Rotating thedial 220 clockwise and counterclockwise causes each of thelouvres 250 to pivot between the first position and the second position. Consequently, thedial 220 may be used to change the direction in which the airflow is discharged from thebarrel 210. - The
knob 260 is attached to the top of theinner sleeve 240 and is isolated from the airflow moving within thebarrel 210. Theknob 260 therefore provides a relatively cool area of thebarrel 210 which a user may grip when manipulating thehaircare appliance 10. - The
attachments inner sleeve 140 ofFIGS. 4 to 7 or thelouvres 250 ofFIGS. 9 to 11 ) that moves between a first position and a second position. The airflow is then discharged from the attachment in a clockwise direction when the member(s) is in the first position, and the airflow is discharged in a counterclockwise direction when the member(s) is in the second position. Moreover, each of theattachments first outlets second outlets second outlets first outlets attachment 100 ofFIGS. 4 to 7 , thebarrel 110 may be said to have afirst outlets 113 a andsecond outlets 113 b formed between theslats 160 and theouter sleeve 150. The airflow is discharged in a clockwise direction through thefirst outlets 113 a (FIG. 7(a) ) and in a counterclockwise direction through thesecond outlets 113 b (FIG. 7(b) ). The inner sleeve 150 (i.e. the member) is moveable from a first position in which thesleeve 150 occludes the path of the airflow to thesecond outlets 113 b (FIG. 7(a) ) to a second position in which thesleeve 150 occludes the path of the airflow to thefirst outlets 113 a (FIG. 7(b) ). -
FIGS. 12 to 15 illustrate further arrangements for achieving a change in the direction of the airflow.FIG. 12 illustrates a third arrangement for anattachment 300 in which thebarrel 310 comprises foursegments 320. Eachsegment 320 pivots about anaxis 325 that is offset from the longitudinal axis of thebarrel 310. Eachsegment 320 pivots between a first position (FIG. 12(a) ) and a second position (FIG. 12(b) ). In the first position, a first edge of anouter wall 321 of the segment abuts aninner wall 322 of an adjacent segment, and a second edge of theouter wall 321 is spaced radially beyond the outer wall of another adjacent segment. Thus, a seal is formed on one side of eachsegment 320 and an outlet is formed on the other side. The foursegments 320 pivot in unison such that outlets are formed on the same side of eachsegment 320 simultaneously. When thesegments 320 are in the first position (FIG. 12 (a) ), the airflow is discharged fromfirst outlets 313 a in a clockwise direction. And when the segments are in the second position (FIG. 12(b) ), the airflow is discharged fromsecond outlets 313 b in a counterclockwise direction. -
FIG. 13 illustrates a fourth arrangement for anattachment 400 in which thebarrel 410 comprises four pairs ofblades blades axis 423 located midway between the two blades. Eachfirst blade 421 of a pair is connected along an edge to an edge of asecond blade 422 of an adjacent pair by anelastic element 430. The four pairs of blades pivot in unison between a first position (FIG. 13(a) ) and a second position (FIG. 13(b) ). When in the first position, thefirst blade 421 of each pair is on the outside, and thesecond blade 422 of each pair is on the inside. Conversely, when in the second position, thefirst blade 421 is on the inside, and thesecond blade 422 is on the outside. As viewed inFIG. 13 , each pair ofblades FIG. 13(a) ) to the second position (FIG. 13(b) ). When in the first position, theelastic element 430 is stretched around the exterior of thefirst blade 421 of each pair of blades and is pulled taught. Airflow is then discharged fromfirst outlets 413 a in a clockwise direction viachannels 424 between each pair of blades. When moved to the second position, theelastic member 430 is instead stretched around the exterior of thesecond blade 422 of each pair of blades. Air is then discharged fromsecond outlets 413 b in a counterclockwise direction via thechannels 424. -
FIG. 14 illustrates a fifth arrangement for anattachment 500 in which thebarrel 510 comprises aninner sleeve 520, anouter sleeve 530, and a plurality ofcolumns 540. Eachcolumn 540 pivots or rotates about its respective center between a first position (FIG. 14(a) ) and a second position (FIG. 14(b) ). Theinner sleeve 520 and theouter sleeve 530 define pairs ofchannels column 540 opens afirst channel 551 of the pair of channels and closes asecond channel 552. The airflow is then discharged throughfirst outlets 513 a in a clockwise direction (FIG. 14(a) ). When in the second position, eachcolumn 540 closes thefirst channel 551 and opens asecond channel 552. The airflow is then discharged throughsecond outlets 513 b in a counterclockwise direction (FIG. 14(b) ). All fivecolumns 540 are arranged to move in unison such that the airflow is discharged in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction over the outer surface of thebarrel 510. The provision of theinner sleeve 520 encourages the airflow to move circumferentially before being discharged from the outlets. This then improves the attraction of the exiting airflow to the surface of thebarrel 510, i.e. the Coanda effect. Nevertheless, theinner sleeve 520 could conceivably be omitted. -
FIG. 15 illustrates a sixth arrangement for anattachment 600 in which thebarrel 610 comprises a plurality ofcolumns 620, and a plurality of movingelements 630. Each movingelement 630 is positioned between a pair ofcolumns 620. The movingelements 630 rotate collectively about the longitudinal axis of the barrel between a first position (FIG. 15(a) ) and a second position (FIG. 15(b) ). Each movingelement 630 is narrower than the circumferential gap between adjacent columns. As a result, an outlet is created between each movingelement 630 and thecolumns 620. More particularly, when the movingelements 630 are in the first position (FIG. 15(a) ),first outlets 613 a are created through which the airflow is discharged in a clockwise direction. When the movingelements 630 are in the second position (FIG. 15(b) ),second outlets 613 b are created through which the airflow is discharged in a counterclockwise direction. - In the examples described above, each attachment has a first configuration in which the airflow is discharged in a clockwise direction and a second configuration in which the airflow is discharged in a counterclockwise direction. Within each configuration, the airflow is discharged from the outlets in a direction substantially tangential to the external surface of the barrel. As a result, the airflow discharged from the outlets is attracted to the external surface by the Coanda effect. This then has the benefit that hair presented to the attachment is attracted to and wraps around the barrel. In other examples, the attachment may have additional configurations in which the airflow discharged from the outlets is not tangential to the external surface of the barrel. For example, the attachment may have a third configuration in which the airflow is discharged from the outlets in a direction substantially perpendicular to the external surface of the barrel. This may be useful to provide the user with a diffuser-type option, for example, once the hair has been wrapped and the user would like to dry the hair.
- The attachments described above each comprise a dial for selecting clockwise or counterclockwise airflow. The provision of a dial, which rotates about the longitudinal axis of the attachment, provides the user with a relatively intuitive way for changing the direction of the airflow. In particular, the user may rotate the dial clockwise and counterclockwise in order to select respectively clockwise and counterclockwise airflow. In spite of the aforementioned advantages, the haircare appliance may comprise an alternative type of selector that may be actuated by a user in order to select clockwise or counterclockwise airflow.
- The dial or other user-actuated selector may be latched and may have two stable positions corresponding to the first and second positions of the moveable member(s). This then has the advantage that the dial, and thus the moveable member(s), are less likely to be moved inadvertently during use of the haircare appliance. Additionally, the moveable member(s) are more likely to be in the correct position since the dial may be automatically latched into position upon rotation. The user is not therefore required to accurately position the dial during use.
- By way of example, the
dial 120 of theattachment 100 ofFIGS. 4 to 7 may be locked when in the first position and in the second position. In order to move thedial 120 between the first and second positions, thedial 120 may be depressed in order to release thedial 120 from the locked position. With thedial 120 depressed, the dial may be rotated between the first position and the second position. Once in position, thedial 120 may be released and thedial 120 may be automatically guided and returned to the locked position, e.g. by a biasing spring and guide features. -
FIG. 16 shows a further example in which thedial 220 of theattachment 200 ofFIGS. 9 to 11 comprises alatching mechanism 1000. Thelatching mechanism 1000 comprises aspring 1004 slid over a U-shaped clip 1002. Afirst pin 1006 a is located on thedial 220. Thefirst pin 1006 a is sandwiched between theU-shaped end 1002 a of the clip 1002 and one end of thespring 1004. Anotherpin 1006 b is located on thebarrel 210. Twounconnected ends 1002 b of the U-shaped clip 1002 slot around thepin 1006 b and another end of the spring is biased against thepin 1006 b. - As the
dial 220 is rotated clockwise, thepins pins compressed spring 1004. The stored elastic potential energy in thecompressed spring 1004 applies a force back to one of the stable positions is the latching mechanism, i.e. the position wherein the spring is most relaxed. A first stable position of thelatching mechanism 1000 is to the right of line Y-Y. Up the line Y-Y, from the right, thelatching mechanism 1000 will encourage the louvres 250 (i.e. the moveable members) back towards the first stable position which is equivalent to the first position of thelouvres 250. Beyond the line Y-Y, towards the left, thelatching mechanism 1000 will bias thelouvres 250 towards the second stable position. In this way, theattachment 200 is more likely to be in the correct position during use since the latching mechanism automatically snaps thelouvres 250 into position upon rotation of thedial 220. - Each of the attachments is removably attached to a handle unit. This then has the advantage that the handle unit may be used with other types of attachment, such as a styling brush or hair dryer nozzle. Nevertheless, the haircare appliance could conceivably comprise an attachment that is permanently attached to the handle unit.
- Each slat may comprise a sealing element configured to engage with the first edge of each blade when the blades are in the first configuration and to engage with the second edge of each blade when the blades are in the second configuration. Thus, fluid is further impeded from leaking out through gaps between the edge of the blade and the column.
- The sealing element may comprise a compressible material. This enables the sealing element to deform to receive the edge of the blade to improve the seal.
- The invention is not limited to the detailed description given above. Variations will be apparent to the person skilled in the art.
Claims (17)
1. An attachment for a haircare appliance comprising:
an inlet for receiving an airflow;
a plurality of outlets through which the airflow is discharged; and
one or more members moveable between a first position and a second position, wherein the airflow is discharged from the outlets in a clockwise direction when the members are in the first position, and the airflow is discharged from the outlets in a counterclockwise direction when the members are in the second position.
2. The attachment according to claim 1 , wherein the outlets comprise first outlets through which the airflow is discharged in a clockwise direction and second outlets through which the airflow is discharged in a counterclockwise direction, the members occlude the airflow to the second outlets when in the first position, and the members occlude the airflow to the first outlets when in the second position.
3. The attachment according to claim 1 , wherein each of the members rotates between the first position and the second position.
4. The attachment as claimed in claim 3 , wherein each of the members rotates about a different, respective axis.
5. The attachment according to claim 1 , wherein each outlet comprises a slot that extends substantially along the length of the attachment.
6. The attachment according to claim 1 , wherein the airflow is discharged from each outlet in a direction substantially tangential to an external surface of the attachment.
7. The attachment according to claim 1 , wherein the airflow discharged from each outlet is attracted to an external surface of the attachment.
8. The attachment according to claim 1 , wherein the attachment is generally cylindrical.
9. The attachment according to claim 1 , wherein the attachment has a longitudinal axis and each outlet comprises a slot that extends parallel to the longitudinal axis.
10. The attachment according to claim 1 , wherein: the attachment comprises an inner sleeve and an outer sleeve; the inner sleeve comprises a plurality of openings; the outer sleeve comprises a plurality of first openings and a plurality of second openings; the member is one of the inner sleeve and the outer sleeve and rotates relative to the other of the inner sleeve and the outer sleeve; when the member is in the first position, the openings of the inner sleeve align with the first openings of the outer sleeve such that the airflow is discharged in a clockwise direction; and when the member is in the second position, the openings of the inner sleeve align with the second openings of the outer sleeve such that the airflow is discharged in a counterclockwise direction.
11. The attachment according to claim 1 , wherein each moveable member comprises a louvre, the attachment comprises a plurality of columns, and each louvre contacts a first column when in the first position, and contacts a second, different column when in the second position.
12. The attachment as claimed in claim 10 , wherein each louvre contacts the first column along a first edge of the louvre and a first outlet is created along a second edge of the louvre when in the first position, each louvre contacts the second column along the second edge and a second outlet is created along the first edge when in the second position, the airflow is discharged from the first outlet in a clockwise direction, and the airflow is discharged from the second outlet in a counterclockwise direction.
13. The attachment according to claim 1 , wherein the attachment comprises a user-actuated selector for moving the member between the first position and the second position.
14. The attachment according to claim 13 , wherein the selector comprises a dial that rotates to move the member between the first position and the second position.
15. The attachment according to claim 13 , wherein the selector is latched and has two stable positions corresponding to the first and second positions of the members.
16. A haircare appliance comprising a blower for generating an airflow, a plurality of outlets through which the airflow is discharged, and one or more members moveable between a first position and a second position, wherein the airflow is discharged from the outlets in a clockwise direction when the member is in the first position, and the airflow is discharged from the outlets in a counterclockwise direction when the member is in the second position.
17. The haircare appliance according to claim 16 , wherein the outlets comprise first outlets through which the airflow is discharged in a clockwise direction and second outlets through which the airflow is discharged in a counterclockwise direction, the members occlude the airflow to the second outlets when in the first position, and the members occlude the airflow to the first outlets when in the second position.
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
GB2014730.2A GB2598924B (en) | 2020-09-18 | 2020-09-18 | Attachment for a haircare appliance |
GB2014730.2 | 2020-09-18 | ||
PCT/GB2021/052278 WO2022058710A1 (en) | 2020-09-18 | 2021-09-03 | Attachment for a haircare appliance |
Publications (1)
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US20240008618A1 true US20240008618A1 (en) | 2024-01-11 |
Family
ID=73196895
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US18/021,834 Pending US20240008618A1 (en) | 2020-09-18 | 2021-09-03 | Attachment for a haircare appliance |
Country Status (7)
Country | Link |
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US (1) | US20240008618A1 (en) |
EP (1) | EP4213684A1 (en) |
JP (1) | JP2023542010A (en) |
KR (1) | KR20230067673A (en) |
CN (1) | CN116194013A (en) |
GB (1) | GB2598924B (en) |
WO (1) | WO2022058710A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (6)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
GB2601723B (en) * | 2020-09-30 | 2023-11-29 | Dyson Technology Ltd | Haircare appliance |
GB2603174B (en) * | 2021-01-29 | 2023-11-15 | Dyson Technology Ltd | A haircare appliance |
KR102554855B1 (en) | 2021-07-15 | 2023-07-13 | 주식회사 유닉스 | Head for curling hair and hair styling device having the same |
GB2613573A (en) * | 2021-12-06 | 2023-06-14 | Dyson Technology Ltd | Attachment for a haircare appliance |
USD1021238S1 (en) | 2022-06-02 | 2024-04-02 | Sharkninja Operating Llc | Hair care appliance |
KR102610084B1 (en) | 2023-08-17 | 2023-12-05 | 서정섭 | Tools for hair curling |
Family Cites Families (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
KR19990087132A (en) * | 1996-12-23 | 1999-12-15 | 요트.게.아. 롤페즈 | Device for hair styling |
AU2015233174B2 (en) * | 2014-03-20 | 2017-12-07 | Dyson Technology Limited | Attachment for a hand held appliance |
KR102101643B1 (en) * | 2016-03-24 | 2020-04-17 | 다이슨 테크놀러지 리미티드 | Attachments for portable instruments |
KR101932158B1 (en) * | 2017-08-03 | 2018-12-26 | 김창기 | Hair dryer |
-
2020
- 2020-09-18 GB GB2014730.2A patent/GB2598924B/en active Active
-
2021
- 2021-09-03 CN CN202180063489.5A patent/CN116194013A/en active Pending
- 2021-09-03 EP EP21769796.0A patent/EP4213684A1/en active Pending
- 2021-09-03 WO PCT/GB2021/052278 patent/WO2022058710A1/en active Application Filing
- 2021-09-03 JP JP2023517992A patent/JP2023542010A/en active Pending
- 2021-09-03 US US18/021,834 patent/US20240008618A1/en active Pending
- 2021-09-03 KR KR1020237013004A patent/KR20230067673A/en unknown
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KR20230067673A (en) | 2023-05-16 |
CN116194013A (en) | 2023-05-30 |
GB202014730D0 (en) | 2020-11-04 |
GB2598924B (en) | 2024-04-03 |
EP4213684A1 (en) | 2023-07-26 |
WO2022058710A1 (en) | 2022-03-24 |
GB2598924A (en) | 2022-03-23 |
JP2023542010A (en) | 2023-10-04 |
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