US20240074559A1

US20240074559A1 - Hair drying unit

Info

Publication number: US20240074559A1
Application number: US18/261,717
Authority: US
Inventors: Giuseppe POLVERELLI
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2020-12-09
Filing date: 2021-12-06
Publication date: 2024-03-07
Also published as: WO2022122630A1; EP4258931A1

Abstract

A hair drying unit suitable for being installed in a room, the hair drying unit having an end device with a body, a first conduit, a second conduit, at least a first opening wherein the first conduit ends, and a second opening wherein the second conduit ends. The end device is suitable for being used in the vicinity of a user's hair. The hair drying unit is a heating/dehumidification system suitably configured to generate an airflow that comes out of one of the two openings of the end device and an airflow that is sucked in from one of the two openings of the end device.

Description

The present patent application for industrial invention relates to a hair drying unit.
As it is known, hair is an increasingly important element for the look of people, and especially of female people.
One of the major causes of hair damage is drying.
In fact, for reasons of time, drying is performed with hairdryers that generate an airflow at a high temperature or with hot iron plates that severely damage the hair, burning the keratin and making the hair dull, dry, brittle and weak.
Nowadays, the hairdryers that are available on the market operate with electrical resistances that consume a high amount of energy, from 1600 Watts to 2300 Watts, damaging the hair due to the high operating temperature.
In order to protect the hair, hairdressers and experts recommend using hairdryers or iron plates that operate at temperatures not higher than 38° C. Moreover, hairdressers and experts recommend using hairdryers that operate with air at room temperature. The use of air at room temperature makes the air bright and soft, while maintaining the hair-set for a long time.
In such a case, however, the hair drying operation with hairdryers that operate at low temperatures is extremely slow and therefore people often prefer to use the conventional hair dryers that operate at high temperatures.
U.S. Pat. No. 8,347,897B2 discloses an hair tongs for hot and cold processing, comprising a heat pump configured to transfer heat from a first part of the heat pump to a second part of the heat pump, thereby cooling the first part of the heat pump for cold processing. The air tong also comprises a first heat sink in thermal contact with the second part of the heat pump, in such a way that the heat can be transferred from the second part of the heat pump to the first heat sink, thus cooling the second part of the heat pump. The U.S. Pat. No. 8,347,897B2 device does not dry the hair by providing air onto the hair and simultaneously sucking in the air from the hair.
The present invention was devised after a careful observation of the above-mentioned problems, with the aim of disclosing an innovative hair drying unit capable of solving the problems in question.
Otherwise said, the purpose of the present invention is to devise a hair drying unit that allows for drying the hair at lower temperatures than conventional hairdryers, but with the same efficiency and speed.
Another purpose of the present invention is to devise a drying unit with a lower energy consumption than the hairdryers that are currently found on the market.
These purposes are achieved in accordance with the present invention with the features listed in the appended independent claim 1.
Advantageous embodiments appear from the dependent claims.
The hair drying unit according to the invention is defined by claim 1.

For the sake of clarity, the description of the hair drying unit according to the invention is continued with reference to the appended drawings, which have only an illustrative and not limiting value, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a hair drying assembly according to the invention;

FIGS. 2, 2A and 2B are three schematic axonometric views of three different end devices that can be used with the hair drying unit;

FIG. 2C is a sectional view of the end device of FIG. 2A;

FIG. 3 is an axonometric view of a hair straightening device that can be used with the hair drying unit;

FIG. 4 is an axonometric view of the operating head and of a hair straightening tool connected to the operating head of the hair straightening device;

FIG. 5 is a longitudinal section of the hair straightening device of FIG. 3 ;

FIG. 6 is an axonometric view of a hair curling device provided with two boxed wings in closed position;

FIG. 7 and FIG. 8 are two axonometric views of the hair curling device of FIG. 7 in two different embodiments with the boxed wings in diverged position;

FIG. 7A is an axial view of an end section of the central tube of the hair curling device shown in FIG. 7 ;

FIG. 8A is an axial view of an end section of the center tube of the hair curling device shown in FIG. 8 ;

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a boxed wing of the hair curling device;

FIG. 10 is a schematic view of the heating/dehumidification system of the hair drying unit according to the present invention;

FIGS. 11, 12, 13 and 14 are views of the unit in four different operating positions; in said FIGS. 11, 12, 13 and 14 the arrows schematically indicate the airflows that circulate in the hair drying unit;

FIG. 15 is a flow chart that illustrates the connection between the sensors, the control unit, the partitions and the electric fans.

With reference to the appended figures, a hair drying unit according to the invention is described.
With reference to FIG. 1 , the hair drying unit according to the invention is suitable for being installed in a room (LC) such as, for example, a hair salon or a bathroom of a private home.
The hair drying unit comprises an end device (D) comprising a body (r1, r2, r3, 20, 30), and also comprises a heating/dehumidification system (RD) connected to the end device (D).
Referring to FIGS. 2, 2A, 2B, 2C, 3 and 6 , five alternative embodiments of the possible configuration of the end device (D) are shown. The end device (D) is suitable for being used in the vicinity of a user's hair.
In all embodiments, the end device (D) comprises a first conduit, a second conduit, at least one first opening (1 a; 31; 21 a) in communication with said first conduit, and at least one second opening (1 b; 32; 22 a) in communication with said second conduit.
In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2 , the end device (D) has a body (r1) shaped like a conventional hairdryer, which comprises a handle (11 a) and an operating portion (12 a) provided with the two openings (1 a, 1 b) in side-by-side parallel position. In particular, the two openings (1 a, 1 b) are disposed one above the other. The two conduits are obtained along the handle (11 a) and along the operating portion (12 a).
Said operating portion (12 a) is substantially shaped like a tube with an axis that is substantially perpendicular to the axis of the handle (11 a).
The two openings (1 a, 1 b) are obtained at the free end of said tube.
With reference to FIGS. 2A and 2C, in a second embodiment of the end device (D), the end device (D) has a body (r2) that is substantially shaped like a cap, defining a central compartment suitable for accommodating a user's head. Otherwise said, the body (r2) of the end device (D) has the shape of a conventional hairdryer hood.
The cap-shaped body (r2) comprises an outer surface (13 b) and an inner surface (13 a) facing the compartment. In such a case, a plurality of first apertures (1 a) and a plurality of second apertures (1 b) are formed on the inner surface (13 a).
In such an instance the conduits are obtained inside the cap between the inner surface (13 a) and the outer surface (13 b). In particular, the first conduit and the second conduit of the end device (D) consist of an inner chamber (ci) and of an outer chamber (ce). The inner chamber (ci) ends into the plurality of first openings (1 a), whereas the outer chamber (ce) ends into the plurality of second openings (1 b).
Referring to FIG. 2B, in a third embodiment of the end device (D), the end device (D) has a body (r3) comprising:

- a handle (15),
- a hollow pin (16) aligned with said handle (15).

The handle (15) and the pin (16) are crossed by the first conduit and by the second conduit of the end device (D).
In such an embodiment, the end device (D) comprises two plates (17, 18) connected to the pin (16) and means that are suitably configured to move the two plates (17, 18) between a non-operating position, wherein said plates (17, 18) are spaced apart from each other, and in an operating position, wherein the two plates (17, 18) are in contact with each other.
Each plate (17, 18) comprises an operating side (17 a, 18 a) facing the other plate (17, 18).
The first openings (1 a) are obtained on the operating side (17 a) of one of said plates (17, 18), whereas the second openings (1 b) are obtained on the operating side (18 a) of the other plate (18).
Preferably, one of the two plates is a fixed plate (17), whereas the other one is a movable plate (18), which is pivotably mounted on the pin (16) in such a way to be moved closer to and away from the fixed plate (17).
The end device (D) shown in FIG. 2B is used for drying and straightening a lock of hair.
This description continues by illustrating the fourth type and the fifth type of end device (D), which are defined as hair straightening device (3) and hair curling device (2), respectively.
With reference to FIGS. 3, 4 and 5 , the hair straightening device (3) comprises:

- the boxed body (30) that comprises a handle (30 a) and an operating head (30 b); the first conduit (341) and the second conduit (342) are formed along said body (30);
- the first opening (31) and the second opening (32) obtained on the operating head (30 b); air is suitable for entering into or exiting from each opening (31, 32); the first conduit (341) ends on the first opening (31), whereas the second conduit (342) ends on the second opening (32);
- a hair straightening tool (35) connected to said operating head (30 b) and comprising a plurality of prongs (35 a) disposed side-by-side that protrude from the two openings (31, 32) and are suitable for being introduced in a user's hair to comb and straighten the hair.

The two openings (31, 32) are disposed one above the other.
A grille (33) is preferably disposed in correspondence with the two openings (31, 32).
The two openings (31, 32) are defined by a perimeter edge (3 b) having a lower section (36 b) where said hair straightening tool (35) is connected.
As it can be seen from FIGS. 3 and 4 , said hair straightening tool (35) is disposed below the two openings (31, 32).
The operating head (30 b) and said hair straightening tool (35) comprise coupling means configured in such a way to detachably couple the hair straightening tool (35) with the operating head (30 b).
The coupling means are coupling means of interference or interlocking type.
In view of the above, the hair straightening tool (35) can be replaced with a hair straightening tool (35) having prongs (35 a) with a different length that are suitable for being used for hair with a certain length. Otherwise said, the hair straightening tool (35) is interchangeable with similar hair straightening tools (35) having prongs (35 a) of different lengths.
Preferably, the prongs (35 a) of the hair straightening tool (35) are curved and have a concavity that faces the handle (30 a).
In the preferred embodiment of the invention, the hair straightening tool (35) is made of a plastic material.
Advantageously, the two openings (31, 32) are directed along a direction that is inclined with respect to the longitudinal axis of the handle (30 a).
Now referring to FIGS. 6 to 9 , the hair curling device (2) comprises the body (20) provided with a handle (20 a) and with an end operating portion (20 b).
The end operating portion (20 b) is disposed at the top of the handle (20 a).
The hair curling device (2) comprises the first conduit and the second conduit (not shown in the appended figures) that are separated from each other and run entirely through the body (20).
The hair curling device (2) comprises a central tube (21) that is connected to the end operating portion (20 b) of the body (20). A plurality of first openings (21 a) of the hair curling device (2) is provided on the central tube (21) in order to suck in or eject the air.
The central tube (21) comprises an inner conduit (21 c) that is in fluid communication with said first conduit in such a way that the first openings (21 a) are in communication with the first conduit.
FIGS. 7, 7A and FIGS. 8, 8A illustrate two hair curling devices having two different types of central tube (21).
In FIGS. 7 and 7A, the central tube comprises a plurality of flat annular portions (211), which are identical to each other and disposed in aligned position, and a plurality of concave annular portions (212), each one of them being interposed between two flat annular portions (211).
The flat annular portions (211) have a flat surface in cross-section, whereas said concave annular portions (212) have a concave surface in cross-section, with concavity facing towards the outside of the central tube (21).
In FIGS. 8 and 8A, on the other hand, the central tube has a uniform longitudinal section for its entire length and comprises a plurality of rigid bristles (213) that protrude radially and externally from the central tube (21).
A third embodiment of the central tube (21), which is not shown in the appended figures, may provide for a combination of the two types of central tube (21) shown in FIGS. 7 and 8 , namely, a central tube (21) comprising flat annular portions (211) and concave annular portions (212) that are spaced apart from each other, and rigid bristles (213) that protrude externally from said annular portions (211, 212).
The hair curling device (2) further comprises two boxed wings (22) hinged to the end operating portion (20 b) and disposed on either side of the central tube (21).
With reference to FIG. 9 , each boxed wing (22) comprises an inner chamber (22 c) in fluid communication with the second conduit of the body (20).
Still with reference to FIG. 7 , each boxed wing (22) comprises two contact sides (22 f) suitable for going in contact with the contact sides (22 f) of the other boxed wing (22). An inner side (22 i) with concavity facing the central tube (21) is provided between the two contact sides (22 f).
Second openings (22 a) of the hair curling device (2) are provided on the inner side (22 i) of each boxed wing (22), said second openings (22 a) being suitable for sucking in or ejecting the air and being in communication with the second duct of the hair curling device (2) by means of the inner chamber (22 c)
Going back to FIGS. 6, 7 and 8 , the boxed wings (22) can be disposed in a diverged position, wherein the contact sides (22 f) are distant from each other (see FIGS. 7 and 8 ), and in a closed position, wherein the contact sides (22 f) are in contact with each other and wherein the two boxed wings (22) embrace the central tube (21) (see FIG. 6 ).
The connection of each boxed wing (22) with the end operating portion (20 b) of the body (20) is made by means of hinge means (MC2) interposed between each boxed wing (22) and the end operating portion (20 b), which allow for moving the two boxed wings (22) between the closed position and the diverged position.
Preferably, with reference to FIG. 9 , each boxed wing (22) has a semi-circular cross-section. In this way, when the two boxed wings (22) are in closed position, they define a chamber with a circular cross-section that accommodates and embraces the central tube (21).
In the preferred embodiment of the invention, the first openings (21 a) formed on the central tube (21) and the second openings (22 a) formed on the boxed wings (22) consist of holes.
Advantageously, with reference to FIG. 6 , the handle (20) has a longitudinal axis (Y2) that is inclined with respect to a longitudinal axis (X2) of the central tube (21).
In view of the above, the shape of the hair curling device (2) is substantially similar to that one of conventional pistol-type hairdryers, it being extremely simple and comfortable to be handled by a user.
The end operating portion (20 b) and the central tube (21), in correspondence with an initial end thereof, comprise fast-coupling means that are suitably configured to detachably couple the central tube (21) with the end operating portion (20 b).
In view of the above, it is possible to interchange the central tube (21). By way of example, it is possible to alternately couple the central tube (21) shown in FIG. 7 or the central tube (21) shown in FIG. 8 with the end operating portion (20 b).
Said coupling means are preferably of bayonet type.
Alternatively, said coupling means may be of interlocking type.
Moreover, although it is not shown in the appended figures, the hair curling device (2) according to the invention comprises locking means that are suitably configured to lock the boxed wings (22) in the closed position, shown in FIG. 6 .
Said locking means may comprise elastic click-in locking means such as, for example, movable strikers disposed on the end operating portion (20 b) of the body (20) and suitable for being fastened in suitable seats obtained on an end side of a boxed wing (22) facing the end operating portion (20 b) of the body (20).
Furthermore, springs are provided for constantly pushing said strikers towards said seats.
The hair curling device (2) also comprises an operating lever (28) for releasing said locking means. More precisely, said operating lever (28) is connected to the movable strikers in order to retract and release them from the seats by overcoming the thrust force provided by the springs. Once the strikers are released, the boxed wings (22) are free to move and rotate around the hinge means (MC2).
The hair curling device (2) may further comprise retaining means that actuate on the boxed wings (22), pushing them towards the diverged position in such a way that, once the two boxed wings are released, they are automatically diverged.
Therefore, the hair curling device (2) uses airflows that enter into and exit from the openings (21 a, 22 a), avoiding the use of incandescent elements that can damage the hair.
In use, starting from a position wherein the two boxed wings (22) are in diverged position, the hair curling device (2) provides for completely rolling a lock of hair around the central tube (21) and for successively closing the two boxed wings (22). Now, a system is activated to suck in and eject the air from the openings (21 a, 22 a). Then, the user awaits a preset amount of time and pulls the hair curling device in such a way that the lock of hair is unrolled from the central tube and is released from the central device. The lock of hair that is released from the hair curling device (2) is curled or wavy and dry.
With reference to FIGS. 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 and 15 , the heating/dehumidification system (RD) is now described in detail.
With reference to FIG. 10 , the heating/dehumidification system (RD) of the hair drying unit according to the invention comprises a boxed frame (T) comprising a first chamber (F1) and a second chamber (F2) disposed side by side.
The boxed frame (T) comprises a first connection inlet (b1) disposed in said first chamber (F1) and a second connection inlet (b2) disposed in said second chamber (F2). Each one of the connection inlets (b1, b2) is in fluid communication with one of the two conduits of the end device (D) by means of connection means (MC).
Said connection means (MC) comprise a two-way tube, that is to say a tube that comprises two internal conduits (01, 02), each one of them being in fluid communication with one of said connection inlets (b1, b2) on one side, and with one of said conduits of the end device (D) on the other side.
In the case where the end device (D) is a device suitable for being held by a user, such as the end devices (D) shown in FIGS. 2, 2B, 3 and 6 , the tube may be a flexible tube or a bellows-type tube, so as to allow a user to move said end device (D) freely.
In the case where said end device (D) is of a fixed type, such as the end device (D) of FIG. 2A, in such a case the tube of the connection means (MC) will be a rigid tube or a flexible tube.
Going back to FIG. 10 , the boxed frame (T) also comprises a first opening (e11) that puts said first chamber (F1) in communication with the room (LC), and a second opening (e21) that puts said second chamber (F2) in communication with the room (LC).
The heating/dehumidification system (RD) also comprises a heat pump comprising components suitable for being crossed by a heat transfer fluid and disposed inside the boxed frame (T). The components of said heat pump are a condenser (C) arranged in said first chamber (F1), an evaporator (E), arranged in said second chamber (F2), a laminating unit (L) arranged in said second chamber and a compressor (S) arranged in said first chamber (F1).
FIG. 10 shows the direction of the heat transfer fluid along the components of the heat pump.
Firstly, the heat transfer fluid is compressed by the compressor (S), increasing its temperature and its pressure.
From the compressor (S), the heat transfer fluid is sent to the condenser (C) from which it exits at liquid state and is then sent to the laminating unit (L) in order to reduce both the temperature and the pressure of the heat transfer fluid at liquid state. At this point the heat transfer fluid is conveyed to the evaporator. The heat transfer fluid passes through the evaporator (E), absorbs the heat and evaporates, returning to gaseous state.
In this step, the evaporator (E) absorbs the heat from the surrounding space and transfers it to the heat transfer fluid.
Therefore, when the air touches an external surface of the conduits of the evaporator (E) crossed by the heat transfer fluid, the air yields the heat to the heat transfer fluid.
The heat transfer fluid that comes out of the evaporator (E) is recycled back to the compressor (S) in order to start a new cycle.
The heating/dehumidification system (RD) comprises:

- a first bi-directional electric fan (V1) disposed in said first chamber (F1), and
- a second bi-directional electric fan (V2) disposed in said second chamber (F2).

The two electric fans (V1, V2) are configured to generate airflows that circulate in the boxed frame (T).
The heating/dehumidification system (RD) comprises a control unit (H) (FIG. 15 ) operatively connected to said electric fans (V1, V2) to activate or deactivate them by rotating them in either direction. In such a way, the following is generated in the boxed frame (T):

- a) an incoming airflow that passes through the second connection inlet (b2) and is conveyed towards the evaporator (E), and an outgoing airflow that passes through the condenser (C) and is conveyed into the first connection inlet (b1); or
- b) an incoming airflow that passes through the first connection inlet (b1) and is conveyed towards the condenser (C), and an outgoing airflow that passes through the evaporator (E) and is conveyed into the second connection inlet (b2).

In the case where the electric fans (V1, V2) are activated and operate as in the case defined in point a), then hot air will be emitted from the first opening(s) (1 a, 31, 21 a) of the end device, whereas the humid air generated by the drying of the hair (high temperature drying: FIG. 11 ) will be sucked in from the second opening(s) (1 b, 32, 22 a) of the end device.
In the case where the electric fans (V1, V2) are activated and operate as in the case defined in point b), then cold dehumidified air will be emitted from the second opening(s) (1 b, 32, 22 a) of the end device, whereas the humid air generated by the drying of the hair (low temperature drying: FIG. 12 ) will be sucked in from the first opening(s) (1 a, 31, 21 a) of the end device.
Still with reference to FIG. 10 , the boxed frame (T) comprises at least one interconnection opening (n1, n2) which puts the first chamber (F1) in communication with the second chamber (F2).
Advantageously, in the preferred embodiment of the invention, the boxed frame (T) is provided with two interconnection openings (n1, n2), namely a first interconnection opening (n1) and a second interconnection opening (n2).
The boxed frame (T) further comprises a first exhaust outlet (s1) disposed in said first chamber (F1), and a second exhaust outlet (s2) disposed in said second chamber (F2). An exhaust tube (TS) is connected to the exhaust outlets (s1, s2) in order to discharge the air that passes through the exhaust outlets (s1, s2) outside the room (LC).
Preferably, said heating/dehumidification system (RD) comprises:

- a first exhaust electric fan (V3) arranged in correspondence with said first exhaust outlet (s1) and configured in such a way as to suck in the air from the first chamber (F1) and forcedly convey it into the exhaust tube (TS);
- a second exhaust electric fan (V4) arranged in correspondence of said second exhaust outlet (s2) and configured in such a way as to suck in the air from the second chamber (F2) and forcedly convey it into the exhaust tube (TS).

The control unit (H) is operatively connected to said exhaust electric fans (V3, V4) and is configured in such a way to activate or deactivate said exhaust electric fans (V3, V4).
Again with reference to FIG. 10 , said main chamber (F1) comprises the following compartments, which are separated by a partition (PP1):

- a main compartment (F11) wherein said condenser (C), said first opening (e11) and said first exhaust outlet (s1) are disposed;
- a secondary compartment (F12) wherein said first connection inlet (b1) is disposed.

The first electric fan (V1) is interposed between said main compartment (F11) and said secondary compartment (F12), forcing the air from the main compartment (F11) towards the secondary compartment (F12) or vice versa. Otherwise said, the first electric fan (V1) is installed on the partition (PP1) that divides the first chamber (F1) into the two compartments (F11, F12).
Similarly, said secondary chamber (F2) comprises the following compartments, which are separated by a partition (PP2):

- a main compartment (F21) wherein said evaporator (E), said second opening (e21) and said second exhaust outlet (s2) are disposed;
- and a secondary compartment (F22) wherein said second connection inlet (b2) is disposed.

The second electric fan (V2) is interposed between said main compartment (F21) and said secondary compartment (F22), forcing the air from the main compartment (F21) towards the secondary compartment (F22) or vice versa.
Otherwise said, the second electric fan (V2) is installed on the partition (PP2) that divides the second chamber (F2) into the two compartments (F21, F22).
The boxed frame (T) further comprises:

- a first auxiliary opening (el 2) that puts the secondary compartment (F12) of the first chamber (F1) in communication with the room (LC); and
- a second auxiliary opening (e22) that puts the secondary compartment (F22) of the second chamber in communication with the room (LC).

Advantageously, for each opening (n1, n2, e11, e12, e21, e22) or inlet/outlet (b1, b2, s1, s2) a movable partition (p1, p2, p3, p4, p5, p6, p7, p8, p9, p10) is provided, it being suitably configured to be moved between an opening position, wherein the opening (n1, n2, e11, e12, e21, e22) or the inlet/outlet (b1, b2, s1, s2) is open, and a closing position, wherein the opening or the inlet/outlet is closed.
The movable partitions are moved automatically by means of automatic drive means controlled by the control unit (H).
Preferably, the heating/dehumidification system comprises condensation draining/collecting means (G1, G2) suitably configured to drain or collect the condensation generated on the evaporator (E).
The condensation draining/collecting means consist of a drainage channel (G1) that discharges the condensation outside the room (LC) and/or of a removable tank (G2) into which the condensation precipitates.
Again with reference to FIG. 10 , the heating/dehumidification system (RD) comprises:

- a first temperature sensor (z1) disposed in said first chamber (F1) to measure the temperature of the air that circulates in said first chamber (F1); and
- a second temperature sensor (z2) disposed in said second chamber (F2) to measure the temperature of the air that circulates in the second chamber (F2).

In addition to said temperature sensors (z1, z2), the heating/dehumidification system (RD) is also equipped with an external temperature sensor (z3) to measure the temperature of the room (LC) and with a humidity sensor (z4) to measure the humidity level in the room (LC).
With reference to FIG. 15 , the control unit (H) is operatively connected to said temperature sensors (z1, z2, z3) and to the humidity sensor (z4) to receive temperature and humidity signals according to which the partitions (p1, p2, p3, p4, p5, p6, p7, p8, p9, p10) and the electric fans (V1, V2, V3, V4) are controlled.
With reference to FIGS. 11, 12, 13 and 14 , four operating modes of the hair drying unit according to the present invention are described below.
It should be noted that although FIGS. 11, 12, 13, 14 show the first type of end device (D) as end device (D), the second type of end device (shown in FIG. 2A) or the third type of end device (shown in FIG. 2B), or the fourth type of end device (the hair straightening device shown in FIG. 3 ) or the fifth type of end device (the hair curling device shown in FIG. 6 ) can be equivalently used.
The airflows passing through the hair drying unit are schematically represented with arrows in FIGS. 11, 12, 13 and 14 .
Referring to FIG. 11 , in a first operating mode of the hair drying unit, which is also defined as adjustable temperature mode, with reference to the first chamber (F1), the partition (p1) associated with the first connection inlet (bl) is maintained open and likewise the partition (p5) associated with the first opening (e11) is maintained open.
The first electric fan (V1) is activated in such a way as to suck in the air from the first opening (e11) and forcedly convey the air towards the first connection inlet (b1) so that air comes out from the first opening (1 a) of the end device (D).
Before being conveyed towards the first connection inlet (bl), the air touches the external surface of the conduit of the condenser (C) in such a way to absorb the heat. Therefore, the air that comes out from the first opening(s) (1 a, 31, 21 a) of the end device (D) is heated.
The heated air hits the user's hair, drying it and generating water vapor and consequently humid air.
In the second chamber (F2), the partition (p2) associated with the second connection inlet (b2) is maintained open and similarly also the partition (p6) associated with the second opening (e21) is maintained open.
The second electric fan (V2) is activated in such a way as to suck in the air from the second connection inlet (b2) and forcedly convey the air through the evaporator (E) where, by touching the external surface of the conduit of the evaporator (E), the air is cooled down, releasing water vapor and thus generating condensation.
Therefore, the humid air generated when the hair is dried is sucked in through the second opening(s) (1 b, 32, 22 a) of the end device (D), then it passes through the second connection inlet (b2) and through the evaporator (E) and finally, after being dehumidified, it is reintroduced into the room (LC) through the second opening (e21) of the boxed frame (T).
In the meantime, the first sensor (z1) measures the temperature of the air that flows into the first chamber (F1), and consequently of the air that comes out of the first opening (1 a, 31, 21 a) of the end device (D).
The temperature of the air that flows out of the first opening(s) of the end device (D) can be adjusted by opening or closing the partition (p7) associated with the first interconnection opening (n1). In this way, in fact, the cold dehumidified air that circulates in the second chamber (F2) flows into the first chamber (F1), mixing with the air that is already present in the first chamber (F1), thus adjusting the temperature of the air that comes out of the first opening (1 a, 31, 21 a) of the end device (D).
If a low temperature is detected inside the room (LC) by the temperature sensor (z3), then also the second exhaust fan (V4) can be activated and the partition (p4) associated with the second exhaust outlet (s2) can be opened in such a way to suck in the cold dehumidified air from the second chamber (F2) and convey it into the exhaust tube (TS), thus preventing all the cold air from being reintroduced into the room (LC). If necessary, it is also possible to close the partition (p6) associated with the second opening (e21) in such a way that all the cooled air is discharged outside through the exhaust tube (TS).
Preferably, in such an operating mode, the air that comes out of the second opening (1 a, 31, 21 a) of the end device (D) can be set at +38°, +48°, or +58°.
Referring to FIG. 12 , in a second operating mode of the heating/dehumidification system (RD), which is defined as low temperature drying mode, with reference to the second chamber (F2), the partition (p2) associated with the second connection inlet (b2) is maintained open and likewise the partition (p6) associated with the second opening (e21) of the boxed frame (T) is maintained open.
The second electric fan (V2) is activated in such a way as to suck in the air from the second opening (e21) (that is to say, to suck in the air from the room (LC)) and forcedly convey it towards the second connection inlet (b2).
In such a case, before flowing into the second connection inlet (b2) and successively into the second opening(s) (1 b, 32, 22 a) of the end device (D), the air touches the external surface of the conduit of the evaporator (E), cooling down and yielding water vapor.
Therefore, cold dehumidified air is ejected from the second opening(s) (1 b, 32, 22 a) of the end device (D). Therefore, in such a case, the drying of the hair is performed with dry air and at a low temperature.
Also in such a case, the drying of the hair causes the evaporation of the water that is contained in the hair, generating water vapor and humidity.
Simultaneously, in the first chamber (F1), the partition (p1) associated with the first connection inlet (b1) is maintained open and likewise the partition (p5) associated with the first opening (e11) of the boxed frame (T) is maintained open. The first electric fan (V1) is activated in such a way as to suck in the air from the first connection inlet (b1) and forcedly convey it through the condenser (C) where the air is heated, touching the external surface of the conduit of the condenser (C).
Therefore, the humid air generated during the drying of the air is sucked in through the first opening (1 a, 31, 22 a) of the end device (D), then it passes through the first connection inlet (b1), it is conveyed into the condenser (C) (where it absorbs heat) and finally, after being heated, it is reintroduced into the room (LC) through the first opening (e11) of the boxed frame (T).
In the meantime, the second sensor (z2) measures the temperature of the air that flows into the second chamber (F2), and consequently of the air that comes out of the second opening (1 b; 32; 22 a) of the end device (D).
The temperature of the air that comes out of the second opening (1 b, 32, 22 a) of the end device (D) can be adjusted by opening or closing the partition (p7) associated with the first interconnection opening (n1). By opening said partition (p7), the heated air that circulates in the first chamber (F1) flows into the second chamber, is mixed with the air that is already present in the second chamber (F2), thus mitigating and consequently adjusting the air that comes out of the second opening (1 b, 32, 22 a) of the end device (D).
Preferably, in such an operating mode, the air that comes out of the second opening (1 b, 32, 22 a) of the end device (D) can be set at +15°, +18°, or +28°.
If the temperature in the room (LC) is high, then the first exhaust electric fan (V3) can be activated and the partition (p3) associated with the first exhaust outlet (s1) can be opened in such a way as to suck in the heated air from the first chamber (F1), thus preventing all the heated air from being reintroduced into the room (LC). If necessary, it is also possible to close the partition (p5) associated with the first opening (e11) so that all the heated air is discharged outside through the exhaust tube (TS).
With reference to FIG. 13 , the operating mode of the heating/dehumidification system (RD) in the pre-heating step is shown.
In such a pre-heating step, the first electric fan (V1) is activated and the partition (p5) associated with the first opening (e11) and the partition (p9) associated with the first auxiliary opening (el 2) are opened. So, the air flows from the first opening (e11) towards the first auxiliary opening (el 2).
Simultaneously, the second electric fan (V2) is activated and the partition (p10) associated with the second auxiliary opening (e22) and the partitions (p6, p4) associated with the second opening (e21) and/or associated with the second exhaust outlet (s2) are opened, in such a way as to make the air flow from the second auxiliary opening (e22) towards the second opening (e21) and/or towards the second exhaust outlet (s2) and therefore towards the exhaust tube (TS). Preferably, in winter, the air comes out of the exhaust tube (TS), whereas, in summer, the air is reintroduced in the room (LC) through the second opening (e21) in such a way to cool the room (LC) down.
In the case of ice being formed on the evaporator (E), the control unit (H) automatically sets the heating/dehumidification system (RD) in defrosting mode by means of a sensor disposed on the evaporator, as shown in FIG. 14 .
In such an operating mode, firstly the second exhaust electric fan (V4) is activated.
The air is sucked in from the room (LC) through the first opening (e11) of the boxed frame (T), then it passes through the condenser (C) where it is heated, then it crosses the second interconnection opening (n2), successively it passes through the evaporator (E) in such a way to defrost it, and finally it is discharged in the exhaust tube (TS), passing through the second discharge opening (p4).
Following the above description, the advantages of the present invention are evident.
Firstly, because of the fact that the air is simultaneously emitted and sucked in correspondence of the user's hair, it is possible to perform a fast drying of the hair, using air at a lower temperature compared to the temperature of the hairdryers of the prior art.
The use of said lower temperatures protects the user's hair, preventing it from becoming dull, dry, fragile and damaged.
Moreover, it must be pointed out that the heating/dehumidification system has a power consumption of about 400 Watts, therefore being extremely more convenient than the conventional hairdryers of the prior art, which have a power consumption comprised between 1600 Watts and 2000 Watts.
An additional advantage of the drying unit according to the invention is that, while drying the hair, the drying unit also provides the air conditioning in the room, thus controlling the airflows that are taken/reintroduced from/into the room.
Furthermore, additional advantages are obtained if the hair curling device (2) or the hair straightening device (3) is used as the end device.
The hair curling device (2) allows for:

- curling or styling the locks of hair without using the incandescent hot plates, by simply using the airflows that are emitted and the airflows that are sucked in from the openings (21 a and 22 a); and
- in addition to curling and styling the hair, it simultaneously allows for drying the hair and therefore it is not necessary to use it on dry hair, like the hair curling devices of the prior art.

On the other hand, the hair straightening device (3) is much simpler and safer to use than the hair straightening plates of the prior art.
Numerous variations and changes may be made to the present embodiment of the invention, which are within the reach of an expert of the field, while falling within the scope of the invention as expressed by the appended claims.

Claims

1. Hair drying unit suitable for being installed in a room; said hair drying unit comprising an end device comprising a body; said end device comprising a first conduit, a second conduit, at least one first opening in communication with said first conduit and at least one second opening in communication with said second conduit; said end device being suitable for being used in the vicinity of a user's hair; said hair drying unit comprising a heating/dehumidification system comprising:

a boxed frame comprising a first chamber and a second chamber; said boxed frame comprising a first connection inlet disposed in said first chamber and a second connection inlet disposed in said second chamber; each one of said connection inlets being in fluid communication with one of the two conduits of the end device; said boxed frame comprising a first opening that puts said first chamber in communication with a room, and a second opening that puts said second chamber in communication with the room;

connection means suitable for putting said first connection inlet and said second connection inlet in fluid communication with the corresponding conduit of the end device;

a heat pump comprising components suitable for being crossed by a heat transfer fluid and disposed inside the boxed frame; said components comprise a condenser disposed in said first chamber, an evaporator disposed in said second chamber, a laminating unit and a compressor;

a first bi-directional electric fan disposed in said first chamber and a second bi-directional electric fan disposed in said second chamber; said electric fans being configured in such a way to generate airflows that circulate in the boxed frame;

a control unit connected to said electric fans to deactivate or activate said electric fans by rotating them in either direction in such a way that the following is generated in the boxed frame:

a) an incoming airflow that passes through the second connection inlet and is conveyed towards the evaporator, and an outgoing airflow that passes through the condenser and passes through the first connection inlet; or

b) an incoming airflow that passes through the first connection inlet and is conveyed towards the condenser, and an outgoing airflow that passes through the evaporator and is conveyed into the second connection inlet.

2. The hair drying unit according to claim 1, wherein said boxed frame comprises at least one interconnection opening that puts said first chamber in communication with said second chamber.

3. The hair drying unit according to claim 1, wherein said boxed frame comprises a first exhaust outlet disposed in said first chamber and a second exhaust outlet disposed in said second chamber; said heating/dehumidification system comprising:

an exhaust tube connected to said first exhaust outlet and to said second exhaust outlet suitable for discharging the air that passes through said exhaust outlets outside the room;

a first exhaust electric fan disposed in correspondence with said first exhaust outlet and configured in such a way as to suck in the air from the first chamber and forcedly convey it into the exhaust tube;

a second exhaust electric fan disposed in correspondence with said second exhaust outlet and configured in such a way as to suck in the air from the second chamber and forcedly convey it into the exhaust tube;

wherein said control unit is configured in such a way as to activate or deactivate said exhaust electric fans.

4. The hair drying unit according to claim 1, wherein for each opening or inlet/outlet, said heating/dehumidification system comprises a movable partition suitably configured to be moved between an opening position, wherein the opening or the inlet/outlet is open, and a closing position, wherein the opening or the inlet is closed; said heating/dehumidification system comprising drive means for automatically moving said movable partitions; said control unit being operatively connected to said drive means to activate them in order to move each movable partition between the closing position and the opening position.

5. The hair drying unit according to claim 1, wherein said first chamber comprises:

a main compartment wherein said condenser and said first opening are disposed; and

a secondary compartment wherein said first connection inlet is disposed;

wherein said first electric fan is interposed between said main compartment and said secondary compartment;

wherein said second chamber comprises:

a main compartment wherein said evaporator and said second opening are disposed; and

a secondary compartment wherein said second connection inlet is disposed;

wherein said second electric fan is interposed between said main compartment and said secondary compartment;

wherein said boxed frame comprises:

a first auxiliary opening that puts the secondary compartment of the first chamber in communication with the room; and

a second auxiliary opening that puts the secondary compartment of the second chamber in communication with the room.

6. The hair drying unit according to claim 1, comprising condensation draining/collecting means suitably configured so as to drain or collect a condensation generated by the evaporator.

7. The hair drying unit according to claim 1, wherein said connection means comprise a tube comprising two conduits.

8. The hair drying unit according to claim 1, wherein said heating/dehumidification system comprises:

a first temperature sensor disposed in said first chamber to measure the temperature of the air that circulates in the first chamber;

a second temperature sensor disposed in said second chamber to measure the temperature of the air that circulates in the second chamber;

said control unit being operatively connected to said temperature sensors to receive temperature signals.

9. The hair drying unit according to claim 1, wherein said body of the end device comprises a handle and an operating portion provided with two openings in side-by-side parallel position.

10. The hair drying unit according to claim 1, wherein said body of the end device is shaped like a cap defining a central compartment wherein a user's head is suitable for being positioned, said cap-shaped body comprises an outer surface and an inner surface facing the compartment; said end device comprising a plurality of first openings and a plurality of second openings formed on the inner surface of the cap; said conduits being formed inside the cap between said inner surface and said outer surface.

11. The hair drying unit according to claim 1, wherein said body of the end device comprises:

a handle;

a pin aligned with said handle;

wherein said handle and said pin are crossed by said first conduit and by said second conduit of the end device; said end device comprising two plates connected to said pin and means configured in such a way as to move said plates between a non-operating position, wherein said plates are spaced apart from each other, and an operating position, wherein the two plates are in contact with each other; each plate comprises an operating side facing the other plate; wherein the operating side of one of said plates is provided with first openings, whereas the operating side of the other plate is provided with second openings.

12. The hair drying unit according to claim 1, wherein said end device comprises a hair curling device and further comprises:

the body having a handle and an end operating portion; said first conduit and said second conduit being separately obtained along said body;

a central tube which is connected to the end operating portion of the body and is provided with the first openings from which the air is to be sucked in or emitted; said first openings are in communication with the first conduit by means of an internal conduit of the central tube;

two boxed wings hinged to the end operating portion and arranged at the sides of the central tube; each boxed wing comprising two contact sides suitable for going in contact against the contact sides of the other boxed wing; each boxed wing comprising an inner side interposed between the two contact sides and having a concavity that faces the central tube; said boxed wings being capable of being disposed in a diverged position, wherein the contact sides (22 f) are distant from each other, and in a closed position, wherein the contact sides are in contact with each other and the two boxed wings embrace the central tube; the internal side of each boxed wing is provided with said second openings from which the air is to be sucked in or emitted; said second openings being in communication with the second conduit by means of an internal chamber of the boxed wings;

hinge means interposed between each boxed wing and the end operating portion (20 b) that allow for moving the two boxed wings between the closed position and the diverged position.

13. The hair drying unit according to claim 12, wherein said central tube comprises a plurality of flat annular portions, identical to each other and disposed in aligned position, and a plurality of concave annular portions, each one of them being interposed between two flat annular portions; wherein said flat annular portions have a flat surface in cross-section, whereas said concave annular portions have a concave surface in cross-section, with concavity facing towards the exterior of the central tube.

14. (canceled)

15. (canceled)

16. (canceled)

17. The hair drying unit according to any claim 12, wherein said end operating portion and said central tube comprise fast coupling means suitably configured in such a way to detachably couple the central tube with the end operating portion.

18. The hair drying unit according to claim 1, wherein said end device comprises a hair straightening device and comprises:

the body comprising a handle and an operating head; the first conduit and the second conduit are formed along the entire body;

the first opening and the second opening obtained on the operating head and suitable for receiving or ejecting the air; the first conduit ends in the first opening and the second conduit ends in the second opening;

a hair straightening tool connected to said operating head and comprising a plurality of prongs disposed side-by-side that protrude with respect to the two openings and are suitable for being introduced in a user's hair in order to comb the hair.

19. (canceled)

20. (canceled)

21. (canceled)

22. (canceled)

23. (canceled)