WO2013113014A1

WO2013113014A1 - Hair brush smoothing hair

Info

Publication number: WO2013113014A1
Application number: PCT/US2013/023475
Authority: WO
Inventors: Jacqueline Urda REUSCHE; Dametria D'ann MUSTIN; Denise Lyn SILBERT; Taft Vincent JONES
Original assignee: Goody Products, Inc.
Priority date: 2012-01-27
Filing date: 2013-01-28
Publication date: 2013-08-01
Also published as: US20150135455A1

Abstract

In one example according to the teachings of the present invention, a hair brush has a brush head with a working surface, a plurality of monofilament bristles protruding from the working surface of the brush head, and a microfiber material exposed on a portion of the working surface of the brush head. In one example, the hair brush can also have a plurality of bristle tufts protruding from the working surface of the brush head. In one example, the hair brush can also have a bristle carrier connected to the brush head. The plurality of monofilament bristles can be attached to the bristle carrier.

Description

HAIR BRUSH FOR SMOOTHING HAIR

Related Application Data

[0001] This patent is related to and claims priority benefit of U.S. provisional application Serial No. 61/591,688 filed January 27, 2012 and entitled "Brush for Smoothing and Styling, and Methods of Use and Manufacturing Thereof." The entire content of this prior filed application is hereby incorporated herein by reference.

Background

1. Field of the Disclosure

[0002] The present disclosure is generally directed to hair brushes, and more particularly to a hair brush with characteristics for smoothing hair during use of the brush.

2. Description of Related Art

[0003] Hair brushes are well known in the art for styling and simply combing a user's hair. There are many known hair brushes having a wide variety of styles, shapes, configurations, and construction available in the marketplace. Most hair brushes typically have a plurality of bristles protruding from a brushing or working surface of a brush head. The typical brush employs only a single type of bristle. The brush bristles are typically spaced apart over the area of the brushing or working surface.

[0004] Hair smoothing has become a known consumer frustration within the hair styling category. There are many types of styling and cleaning products and additives that can be employed and applied to the hair to help with smoothing frizzed, split, and damaged hair. These products are often in liquid form and are wet when applied to the user' s hair. The hair can also be wet when such hair cleaning and styling products are applied.

[0005] Hair smoothing has become a highly sought after feature. As a result, some manufacturers have produced hairstyling implements, such as hair brushes, and have made claims that these implements can deliver smoother hair when used. However, there are very few examples within this category of purported smoothing implements that actually deliver demonstrably smoother hair. Some of these products are configured to assist in the application of the aforementioned wet goods and hair products that are designed or intended to smooth the hair. The mechanical action at work in these instances is the actual coating of the hair strands with a silicon or similar substance that helps to mask the effects of damaged hair cuticles.

[0006] There are a few products that are designed to specifically address static. Static is believed in the industry to be a contributing agent to hair frizz and, thus, a lack of smooth hair, but it is known to only be one factor. The success of these known implements and the attempts to provide hair styling implements, such as hair brushes, that can smooth the hair of a user is quite limited. The success of these implements also can vary widely, depending on humidity or other environmental factors.

Summary

[0007] In one example according to the teachings of the present invention, a hair brush has a brush head with a working surface, a plurality of monofilament bristles protruding from the working surface of the brush head, and a microfiber material exposed on a portion of the working surface of the brush head.

[0008] In one example, the hair brush can also have a plurality of bristle tufts protruding from the working surface of the brush head.

[0009] In one example, the hair brush can also have a bristle carrier connected to the brush head. The plurality of monofilament bristles can be attached to the bristle carrier.

[0010] In one example, the hair brush can also have a plurality of bristle tufts protruding from the working surface of the brush head and a bristle carrier connected to the brush head. The plurality of monofilament bristles and the plurality of bristle tufts can be attached to the bristle carrier.

[0011] In one example, at least a portion of the monofilament bristles and/or a portion of the bristle tufts, if provided, can protrude through the microfiber material.

[0012] In one example, the hair brush can also include a bristle carrier connected to the brush head. The plurality of monofilament bristles can be attached to the bristle carrier. The bristle carrier can have a front side facing in the direction of the working surface, a back side facing the brush head, and a plurality of holes formed therethrough. Each of the plurality of holes can extend through a support pod protruding from the back side.

[0013] In one example, the hair brush can also include a plurality of bristle tufts protruding from the working surface of the brush head. At least a least a portion of the plurality of bristle tufts can be formed at least in part of boar bristles.

[0014] In one example, the hair brush can include a plurality of bristle tufts protruding from the working surface of the brush head. Each bristle of the plurality of bristle tufts can be formed as a strand of boar hair that is bent in half to form two boar bristles of the respective bristle tufts.

[0015] In one example, the hair brush can also include a plurality of bristle tufts protruding from the working surface of the brush head. At least some of the plurality of monofilament bristles can be closely adjacent to corresponding tufts of the plurality of bristle tufts.

[0016] In one example, at least some of the plurality of monofilament bristles is formed of a Nylon material.

[0017] In one example, at least some of the plurality of monofilament bristles is an extruded Nylon material with a free end dipped in a substance to form a ball on a tip of the free end.

[0018] In one example, the hair brush can also include a bristle carrier formed of a resilient, flexible material with a perimeter edge which is joined to the brush head.

[0019] In one example, the hair brush can also include support pods protruding from and spaced apart over a back side of a bristle carrier joined to the brush head. Each support pod can define a bristle hole through the bristle carrier.

[0020] In one example, the hair brush can also include support pods protruding from and spaced apart over a back side of a bristle carrier joined to the brush head. Each support pod can define a bristle hole through the bristle carrier. Each of the plurality of monofilament bristles can be secured in a different one of the support pods.

[0021] In one example, the hair brush can also include support pods protruding from and spaced apart over a back side of a bristle carrier joined to the brush head. Each support pod can define a bristle hole through the bristle carrier. The hair brush can also include a plurality of bristle tufts protruding from the working surface of the brush head. One or more of the plurality of bristle tufts can be secured in a common one of the support pods along with one of the plurality of monofilament bristles.

[0022] In one example, the hair brush can also include support pods protruding from and spaced apart over a back side of a bristle carrier joined to the brush head. Each support pod can define a bristle hole through the bristle carrier. The hair brush can also include a plurality of bristle tufts protruding from the working surface of the brush head. The plurality of monofilament bristles can be secured in a first set of the support pods and the plurality of bristle tufts is secured in a second set of the support pods different from the first set.

[0023] In one example, the brush head can be an oval or a rectangular shape defined by a perimeter and can form a pair of opposed faces, one of which defines the working surface.

[0024] In one example, the brush head can be a generally cylindrical shape with a circumferential outer surface defining the working surface.

[0025] In one example, the hair brush can also include a handle connected to and extending from the brush head.

[0026] In one example, the microfiber material can be a layer of microfiber cloth connected to a substantial majority of the working surface.

[0027] In one example, the hair brush can also include a bristle carrier coupled to the brush head. The microfiber material can include one or more microfiber material segments connected to the bristle carrier on the working surface.

[0028] In one example, the hair brush can also include a bristle carrier coupled to the brush head. The microfiber material can include two or more microfiber material segments connected to the bristle carrier on the working surface. Each of the microfiber material segments can be spaced from the other of the microfiber material segments.

[0029] In one example, the hair brush can also include a bristle carrier coupled to the brush head. The microfiber material can include one or more microfiber material segments connected to the bristle carrier on the working surface. A ring can secure a perimeter edge of the bristle carrier to the brush head. The ring can also secure edges of the one or more microfiber material segments to the brush head.

[0030] In one example, the hair brush can also include a bristle carrier coupled to the brush head. The microfiber material can include one or more microfiber material segments connected to the bristle carrier on the working surface. A ring can secure a perimeter edge of the bristle carrier to the brush head. The ring can also secure edges of the one or more microfiber material segments to the brush head. The ring can be formed of a ceramic material or can have a ceramic coating thereon.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0031] Objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become apparent upon reading the following description in conjunction with the drawing figures, in which:

[0032] FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of one example of a hair brush constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention.

[0033] FIG. 2 shows a front plan view of the hair brush shown in FIG. 1.

[0034] FIG. 3 shows a top end view of the hair brush shown in FIG. 1.

[0035] FIG. 4 shows a cross-section taken along line 4-4 of the hair brush shown in FIG. 2.

[0036] FIG. 5 shows a front plan view of another example of a hair brush similar to that shown in FIG. 1 , but having a different bristle configuration and arrangement.

[0037] FIG. 6 shows a top end view of the hair brush shown in FIG. 5.

[0038] FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of another example of a hair brush constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention.

[0039] FIG. 8 shows a front plan view of the hair brush shown in FIG. 7.

[0040] FIG. 9 shows a top end view of the hair brush shown in FIG. 7.

[0041] FIG. 10 shows a front plan view of another example of a hair brush similar to that shown in FIG. 7, but having a different bristle configuration and arrangement.

[0042] FIG. 11 shows a top end view of the hair brush shown in FIG. 10. [0043] FIG. 12 shows a front plan view of another example of a hair brush similar to that shown in FIG. 7, but having another different bristle configuration and arrangement.

[0044] FIG. 13 shows a front plan view of another example of a hair brush similar to that shown in FIG. 7, but having another different bristle configuration and arrangement.

[0045] FIG. 14 shows a front plan view of another example of a hair brush similar to that shown in FIG. 7, but having another different bristle configuration and arrangement.

[0046] FIG. 15 shows a perspective view of another example of a hair brush constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention.

[0047] FIG. 16 shows a front plan view of the hair brush shown in FIG. 15.

[0048] FIG. 17 shows a top end view of the hair brush shown in FIG. 15.

[0049] FIG. 18 shows a top end view of another example of a hair brush similar that shown in FIG. 15, but having a different bristle configuration and arrangement.

[0050] FIG. 19 shows a top end view of another example of a hair brush similar that shown in FIG. 15, but having another different bristle configuration and arrangement.

Detailed Description of the Disclosure

[0051] The disclosed hair brushes solve or improve upon one or more of the aforementioned and/or other problems and disadvantages with prior known hair brushes and styling implements. In one example, the disclosed hair brushes employ a brush head with multiple different features on the working surface that yield different hair styling performance characteristics. In one example, the disclosed hair brushes employ a plurality of monofilament, such as synthetic or man-made, bristles protruding from the working surface of the brush head. In one example, the disclosed hair brushes employ a plurality of bristle tufts, which can be naturally occurring, such as animal hair, protruding from the working surface of the brush head. In one example, the disclosed hair brushes employ a microfiber material exposed on at least a portion of the working surface of the brush head. These brush head elements can in combination produce a hair brush capable of performing several functions including smoothing of the hair. These and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become apparent to those having ordinary skill in the art upon reading this disclosure.

[0052] Turning now to the drawings, FIGS. 1-3 show one example of a hair brush 20 constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention. In this example, the hair brush 20 generally has a brush head 22 and a handle 24 projecting from one end of the brush head. As is known in the art, one can grasp the handle 24 and manipulate the hair brush 20 when styling a person's hair. The configuration and construction of the handle 24 and the brush head 22 can vary considerably within the spirit and scope of the present invention, as can the size, shape, and contour of each of these components. In the disclosed example, the handle 24 is an elongate rod shape configured to be easily grasped by a user's hand. Also in this disclosed example, the brush head 22 is generally rectangular in shape.

[0053] The hair brush 20 generally has a working or brushing surface, side, or face 26 (hereinafter the "working surface") that is exposed on a portion of the brush head 22. The configuration, shape, and orientation of the working surface 26 can vary, depending on the type and style of the hair brush and its intended use. In this example, the generally rectangular brush head 22 has a perimeter 28 and two opposed, somewhat flat or planar surfaces or sides, one of which is a back surface 30 and the other of which is the working surface 26.

[0054] In this example, the hair brush 20 is designed to produce more than one different hair styling characteristic or function. In order to do so, the hair brush 20 employs more than one functional element on the working surface 26 of the brush head 22. As depicted in FIGS. 1-3, the brush head 22 has a plurality of monofilament bristles 32 that protrude from the working surface 26. The brush head 22 also has a plurality of bristle tufts or clusters 34 also protruding from the working surface 26. In addition, the brush head 22 further has a microfiber material 36 that is exposed on at least a portion of the working surface 26. The microfiber material 36 is generally exposed in the same direction as the monofilament bristles 32 and bristle tufts 34. Specific structural and functional characteristics of each of these functional elements are described in greater detail below. [0055] The basic construction of the working surface 26 on the hair brush 20 is depicted in and described with reference to FIG. 4. However, it is understood that the basic construction and manufacturing methods used to create the disclosed hair brushes can vary within the spirit and scope of the present invention. In this example, the brush head 22 generally defines a cavity (not shown) on the side opposite the back surface 30. A bristle assembly 40 is attached to, mounted to, adhered to, or otherwise secured to the brush head 22 over the cavity. FIG. 4 generally shows the bristle assembly 40 in this disclosed example.

[0056] In general, the bristle assembly 40 has a bristle carrier 42 that is secured or joined to the brush head 22. The bristle carrier 42 has a front side 44 facing away from the brush head 22 and creating a part of the working surface 26. The bristle carrier 42 also has a back side 46 that faces the brush head 22, i.e., the cavity or recess in the brush head. The bristle carrier 42 also has a perimeter edge 48 that is sized and shaped to correspond to that of the brush head 22, and particularly the cavity into which the bristle assembly is received and installed.

[0057] The bristle carrier 42 can be a resilient and flexible material that can flex and return or spring back to shape during use, as is known in the art. In one example, the bristle carrier 42 can be formed of an elastomeric material, rubber material, plasticized PVC material, or the like. In other examples, the bristle carrier 42 may be relatively stiff and somewhat less resilient and flexible, if desired. Other suitable materials can also be used to form the bristle carrier 42, different from the examples described herein.

[0058] With reference to FIGS. 1-3, a ring 50 that is also sized and shaped to correspond to the configuration of the brush head 22 and can be utilized to secure the bristle assembly 40 to the hair brush 20. In one example, the ring 50 can be a ceramic material or can be a ceramic coated substrate. The ring can certainly be formed of other suitable materials such as aluminum, plastic, wood, or the like. Depending on the material construction of the ring 50, the ring can be secured to the brush head 22 in any suitable manner, such as by sonic welding, adhesives, fasteners, a snap fit configuration, or the like. The ring 50 can be configured to clamp the perimeter edge 48 of the bristle carrier 42 between the ring and the brush head 22 over the cavity. When assembled, the bristle carrier 42 can take on a convex shape when viewed from the front side 44 as is known in the art, creating a hollow space beneath the bristle carrier and over the cavity. The bristle carrier 42 can flex resiliently toward and away from the cavity during use.

[0059] Returning to FIG. 4, the bristle carrier 42 in this example has a plurality of holes 52 form therethrough from the front side 44 to the back side 46. In this example, each of the plurality of holes 52 extends through a generally cylindrical support pod 54 that protrudes from the back side 46 on the bristle carrier 42. The support pods 54 can be integrally molded from the same material as the bristle carrier 42 and configured to provide stability and support for the various bristles attached to the bristle carrier. It is preferred that the various bristles remain attached to the bristle carrier 42 and remain in a generally stable orientation relative to one another and to the bristle carrier.

[0060] In this example, each of the monofilament bristles 32 can be a man-made molded or extruded synthetic structure. Each monofilament bristle 32 can be formed of any suitable rigid or semi-rigid material, such as plastic, thermoplastic elastomer, metal, or the like. In one example, the monofilament bristles 32 can each be extruded and cut to length from a nylon material. As shown, each monofilament bristle 32 has a stalk 56, a free end 58, and a secured end 60. The secured ends 60 in this example are formed to create a hook 64 thereon. The free ends 58 are formed with an optional ball 62 on the tip of the stalk 56. In one example, each monofilament bristle 32 can be heated and bent to form the hook 64 and the free end 58 can be dipped in a secondary material, such as an epoxy paint, to form the ball 62 on the tip.

[0061] As will be evident to those having ordinary skill in the art, the configuration and construction of the monofilament bristles 32 can vary within the spirit and scope of the present invention. Each bristle can be individually molded. Each

monofilament bristle 32 can be the same as the other monofilament bristles on the hair brush 20 or the hair brush can include two or more different types of monofilament bristles that are different in length, diameter, material, shape, and/or the like.

[0062] In this example, each of the bristle tufts 34 is formed of a naturally occurring substance, such as animal hair. It is well known in the industry to utilize horse hair, boar hair, or the like as brush bristles. In one example, each of the bristle tufts 34 can be formed from multiple strands of boar hair. As shown in FIG. 4, in one example, a strand of boar hair can be bent in half at 70 such that each strand forms two natural bristles 34 of the bristle tufts 34 in the bristle assembly 40. It is within the scope of the invention that the bristle tufts can be formed of man-made or synthetic materials, such as elastomer, nylon, or the like.

[0063] In the disclosed example, at least one of the monofilament bristles 32 is seated in a corresponding one of the holes 52 in the bristle carrier 42. In other examples, it is at least possible that two or more of the monofilament bristles 32 can be seated in a common hole 52 in the bristle carrier 42. In this example, some of the monofilament bristles 32 are seated in the same or a common hole 52 with one of the bristle tufts 34. In this example, a plurality of the boar hair strands are bent and tufted together and seated in a hole 52 that also includes one of the monofilament bristles 32. Some of the monofilament bristles 32 are seated in a hole 52 that does not include any bristle tuft 34.

[0064] The various bristles can be secured to the bristle carrier 42 using a variety of methods known in the art. In one example, though not shown herein, a metal staple, a metal clamp, or a wire can be used to pinch, clamp, and/or otherwise retain the bristles in place on the bristle carrier 42. In another example, the size and shape of the secured end 60 of the monofilament bristles 32 can be such that an interference fit is created between the support pod 54 and the hook 64. Thus, friction can be used to retain the bristles secured to the bristle carrier 42, as in this example. In a further example, glue or a suitable adhesive can also be applied to each support pod 54 at the back side 46 of the bristle carrier 42. This can help secure and retain the various bristles attached to the bristle carrier 42. Particularly, the glue or adhesive can help secure and retained the finer bristle tufts 34 within the respective support pods 54.

[0065] The method used to secure the various bristles in place can be selected depending on the desired performance characteristics of the hair brush 20. Multi- strand boar hair tufts 34 and synthetic bristles 32 can be attached to a bristle carrier, i.e., a cushion pad. The securing method may be devised to withstand an average pull out force of 2.0 to 3.0 pounds (1.36 kg). As will be evident to those having ordinary skill in the art, the particular securing devices and methods can vary from the examples shown and described herein. In addition, the disclosed support pods 54 are optional as well. Other configurations and constructions of the bristle carrier 42, sometimes called the bristle cushion or pad, are certainly within the scope of the present invention as well. [0066] In a disclosed example, the microfiber material 36 can be a cloth element that is applied to at least a portion of the front side 44 of the bristle carrier 42. For the hair brush 20, a substantial majority, if not all, of the front side 44 is covered by the microfiber material 36. A microfiber material is typically defined as a textile formed of synthetic fibers that have a very thin thread diameter. Typically, microfiber thread is defined as being finer than one or 1.3 denier or decitex per thread. This is typically about 1/100 the diameter of a human hair and 1/20 the diameter of a strand of silk. Microfibers are often made from polyester textile, polyamide textile, polypropylene textile, or some combination thereof. Microfiber material can be configured having a mat, knit, or weave structure to create a cloth or fabric material layer with a base and a loop pile, for example. Alternatively, microfiber material be formed having a non- woven structure. Characteristics of the microfiber material can be varied to create desired performance features and characteristics. For the purpose of the disclosed hair brushes, the microfiber material 36 can be specifically designed to yield a soft feel, absorb liquid, and the like. The microfiber material 36 can be relatively flat or have a texture, as desired. Further, the thickness of the fabric or cloth layer of the microfiber material 36 can also be varied, depending on the particular performance characteristics desired of the material.

[0067] Microfiber material 36 can be secured to the bristle carrier 42 by use of glue or an adhesive that can withstand exposure to water and hair cleaning, styling, and conditioning products. In the disclosed example, the ring 50 and the size and location of the perimeter edges of the microfiber material 36 can be such that the ring clamps and secures both the edges of the microfiber material and the perimeter edge 48 of the bristle carrier 42 to the bristle head 22 when the hair brush 20 is assembled.

[0068] As shown in FIGS. 1-4, the microfiber material 36 is exposed between the various bristles and at the base of the bristles 32, 34. The monofilament bristles 32 are spaced apart from one another over the working surface 26 area. The number, placement, and spacing of the monofilament bristles 32 can vary, depending on the hair styling purpose and the hair type for which the hair brush 20 is intended.

Similarly, the overall length of the monofilament bristles 32 can vary for the same reasons. In this example, some of the monofilament bristles 32 stand alone and are not associated with or closely adjacent any of the bristle tufts 34. Other of the monofilament bristles 32 are clustered together with some of the bristle tufts 34. In this example, the bristle tufts 34 and monofilament bristles 32 are generally arranged in lengthwise spaced apart rows on the brush head 22. This arrangement can change.

[0069] For example, FIGS. 5 and 6 illustrate just one of many possible alternative examples of a bristle arrangement. In this example, a hair brush 80 has essentially the same construction as the earlier described hair brush 20. The only difference is that each of the monofilament bristles 32 in this example is clustered with a corresponding one of the bristle tufts 34. Each is secured therewith in the same hole 52 and support pod 54 on the bristle carrier 42. As will become apparent below, additional alternate bristle arrangements are certainly within the scope of the present invention.

[0070] As noted above, the size, shape, and configuration of the brush head 22 can vary. To illustrate, FIGS. 7-9 depict another example of a hair brush 90 that is constructed essentially the same as the earlier described hair brush 20. The only difference in this example is that the brush head 92 of the hair brush 90 has an oval shape defined by its perimeter 94 instead of the earlier described rectangular shape. The arrangement of the monofilament bristles 32, bristle tufts 34, and microfiber material 36 is essentially the same as that described above for the hair brush 20.

[0071] The arrangement of the various bristles on the hair brush 90 can also vary within the spirit and scope of the present invention. To illustrate, FIGS. 10 and 11 depict another example of a hair brush 100 that is essentially the same as the hair brush 90 including having an oval brush head 102. However, in this example, the monofilament bristles 32 and bristle tufts 34 are each clustered together in a manner identical to that for the alternate hair brush 80 shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 and described above.

[0072] Other bristle arrangements can also fall within the scope of the present invention. Several additional alternate examples are depicted in FIGS. 12-14, each showing an oval shaped hair brush similar to those depicted in FIGS. 7-11. FIG. 12 shows a hair brush 110 with an oval brush head 112. In this example, each of the monofilament bristles 32 is arranged in a diagonal row across the working surface 26. Similarly, the bristle tufts 34 are arranged in diagonal rows across the working surface 26. However, each of the rows of bristle tufts 34 is completely independent of, and alternately dispersed between the rows of monofilament bristles 32. Thus, in this example, each bristle type is secured in its own hole and/or support pod on the bristle carrier. In another example, though not shown herein, dual diagonal rows of each type of bristle can be formed on the brush head 112 and can crisscross one another over the working surface 26.

[0073] FIG. 13 shows another example of a hair brush 120 withan oval brush head 122. In this example, the monofilament bristles 32 are arranged in lengthwise rows along the brush head 122. The rows of monofilament bristles 32 alternate with separate and independent rows of the bristle tufts 34. Similar to the hair brush 110, the monofilament bristles 32 on the hair brush 120 do not share any common holes or support pod with the tufts 34. FIG. 14 shows yet another example of a hair brush 130 with an oval brush head 132. The hair brush 130 has a similar construction to that of the hair brush 120 except that the monofilament bristles 32 are arranged in radially spaced apart oval rings. Likewise, the bristle tufts 34 are arranged in radially spaced apart oval rings that are radially interspersed with the rings of monofilament bristles 32. Again, the monofilament bristles 32 and the bristle tufts 34 on the hair brush 130 do not share any common attachment points, i.e., holes or support pods.

[0074] FIGS. 15-17 illustrate yet another example of a hair brush 140 constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention. In this example, the hair brush 140 has a generally cylindrical or round brush head 142 and a handle 144 extending lengthwise or axially from the brush head. The brush head 142 has an outer circumferential working surface 146. A plurality of the monofilament bristles 32 protrudes radially outward from the working surface 146 with the individual bristles being spaced apart around and lengthwise over the brush head 142. A plurality of the bristle tufts 34 also protrude radially outward from the working surface 146 with the individual tufts being spaced apart around and lengthwise over the brush head 142. In this example, two microfiber material segments 148 are also carried on the working surface 146. The microfiber material segments 148 are arranged opposite one another on the working surface around the circumference of the brush head 142.

[0075] Similar to the hair brush 20 described above, some of the monofilament bristles 32 protrude from the brush head 142 and are independent of any of the bristle tufts 34. Likewise, some of the monofilament bristles 32 are secured to the brush head 142 at essentially the same location as one of the bristle tufts 34. The various bristles are again arranged in lengthwise rows along a length of the cylindrical brush head 142 in this example. Though not shown herein, a bristle carrier can be positioned within and secured to a core 150 of the brush head 142. FIG. 17 shows the brush head 142 with an end cap 151 of FIG. 15 removed to generically expose and show the core material. The various bristles can be secured to the bristle carrier, which can in turn be secured to the interior of the core 150. The various bristles can extend through holes 152 or other such openings in portions of the core 150 or other components of the brush head 142. In this example, the core 150 can be a multi- components structure, with the components being snapped, fastened, welded, sonically welded, glued, or otherwise adhered to one another to complete or cover a base core material.

[0076] The microfiber material segments 148 can be adhered to a surface of the core 150. Plates, such as thin metal, ceramic, or ceramic coated plates 154, can be secured to the core 150 and can pinch or capture edges of the segments 148 against the core. These plates 154 can function similar to the earlier described ring 50 of the hair brush 20. Additional vent openings 156 can also be provided through portions of the core 150, plates 154, or the like to vent the round brush head 142. Typically, this type of hair brush 140 is used to style one's hair in conjunction with a blow dryer. The brush head 142 can become quite hot during use. The vent openings 156 can help to dissipate heat from the brush 140.

[0077] The plates 154 on the core 150 of the round style brush head can be ceramic, metal, or other suitable materials. The earlier described flat (rectangular, oval, etc.) style brushes can also include microfiber material segments and metal or ceramic plates on portions of the working surface, if desired.

[0078] Again, some of the monofilament bristles 32 on the round hair brush 140 are attached to the brush head 142 independent of any other bristles. Some of the monofilament bristles 32 protrude from the brush head 142 at the same locations as the bristle tufts 34. Some of the bristles 32, 34 also protrude through the microfiber material segments 148 and some of the bristles do not. The bristle and microfiber material arrangement can vary on this type of hair brush, similar to the prior examples. For example, FIG. 18 shows an end view of a hair brush 160 with a different bristle arrangement. Each of the bristle tufts 34 protrudes from a brush head 162 at a different, independent location than the monofilament bristles 32. In this example, each of the monofilament bristles 32 is also provided as a V-shaped structure including two of the bristles joined together at their respective bases (not shown). This is simply to illustrate one possible variation in the structure of the monofilament bristles described earlier. FIG. 19 depicts yet another example of a round hair brush 170 whereby the monofilament bristles 32 are arranged in lengthwise rows and the bristle tufts 34 are also arranged in lengthwise rows on a brush head 172 and interspersed between the rows of monofilament bristles and independent thereof. A wide variety of other optional and different bristle arrangements are certainly possible for any of the hair brush configurations disclosed and described herein.

[0079] The disclosed hair brushes offer a unique combination of hair styling features and characteristics. The monofilament bristles 32 in each of the

embodiments can be sized and spaced to perform the function of aligning strands of hair and detangling strands of hair of the user. The bristle tufts 34 in each of the embodiments can be optionally provided to distribute natural oils throughout the user' s hair as well as to distribute hairstyling and conditioning products being applied to the hair. The bristle tufts 34, both in construction and in the clustered arrangement, can hold, retain, and more evenly distribute the natural oils and hair care products throughout the user's hair in comparison to a brush having only monofilament bristles 32. The microfiber materials 36 and 148 of the disclosed embodiments can provide the additional function of smoothing and polishing the hair strands of a user.

Microfiber material can be designed to absorb water and natural oils, and to distribute same, much more evenly than either of the monofilament or tufted bristles 32, 34. Depending on the particular characteristics of a brush design, the microfiber material can be specifically tailored to absorb, hold, and release natural oils, conditioner, water, and the like to the user's hair. This function can greatly assist in smoothing and polishing the hair strands of the user, giving the hair strands a strong and healthy shine and a smooth appearance.

[0080] A brush constructed according to the teachings of the present invention can have a plurality of bristles with one or more bristle types extending through a substrate, such as a bristle carrier, brush head core, or the like. The brush can have at least one microfiber material element that is positioned on an exterior portion of the substrate and exposed to a user' s hair during use. The brush can have at least a portion of the plurality of bristles extend through the microfiber material element or elements. The brush can include one, two, or more than two bristle types, such as porcupine (clusters of monofilament and tufts), boar, monofilament, or elastomer material bristles. Less than all of the various bristles and bristle types can extend through the microfiber material element. The brush can include one or more metal elements on a working surface of the brush and/or can include one or more ceramic or ceramic coated elements on the working surface. In one example, the brush can have at least a portion of the plurality of bristles extend through the at least one metal or ceramic elements.

[0081] Embodiments of the invention described herein are able to create a smoothing action when styling one's hair by use of three distinct features in a single brush: (1) combing, aligning, and detangling; (2) polishing; and (3) redistribution of natural oils and/or hair product. The disclosed hair brushes combine these three features into a single hair brush by employing: (1) substantially rigid or semi-rigid bristles or monofilaments for combing; (2) natural or synthetic micro-bristle tufts or clusters for redistribution of natural oils and residual hair product, and static reduction; and (3) microfiber material for polishing the cuticle and further redistribution of natural oils and hair product.

[0082] Microfiber material has not before been used in a brush for the purpose of smoothing hair strands and polishing cuticles. The microfiber material has microscopic filaments that may interact with the hair cuticle in a way that allows for a much broader amount of surface to surface contact, resulting in a much better distribution of oils and hair care products. This may allow the hair to be polished at the nano-level, at the cuticle. This effect, in combination with known aligning and oil redistribution qualities of other known types of bristles, can work together to create a superior smoothing effect in comparison to existing smoothing brush products.

[0083] The microfiber material elements or segments can be attached to or near the base of the bristles on the working surface of the brush. In addition, or alternatively, microfiber material can be included as folded fins or otherwise elevated in order to provide more, deeper, or improved interaction with the hair. In one embodiment, varying the height of the microfiber can be achieved by cutting the microfiber into flaps, waves, or rods that extend upward in the direction of the bristles.

[0084] Tufting machines typically used for making these types of brushes can be very sensitive in that the force that the machine uses to push the bristle through the rubber pad or carrier is generally balanced with the resistance that the pad provides. If the force is too large, the bent end of the bristle may go all the way through the pad and the bristle may flop around. If the force is too small, then bent edge of the bristle may not sink deep enough into the pad material, and the bristle may fall out during use.

[0085] Adding a layer of microfiber before bristling of the pad or carrier could increase the manufacturing complexity and difficulty. The surface of a typical microfiber substrate may be uneven, such as when the microfiber is a base layer with a loop pile. The force required to punch the bristle through the microfiber and the carrier material to the correct depth may depend on where the bristling machine hits the microfiber (e.g. on top of a loop, at the base of the substrate, etc.). Because of this, some bristles may tend to either fall out from the top, or be punched too far through the carrier and wobble around.

[0086] The disclosed embodiments of the invention can solve this problem. One can pre-punch the microfiber along with or separate from the carrier material. In one embodiment, this can be achieved by passing the microfiber and cushion pad or carrier through the bristling machine with no bristles. In other embodiments, other methods can be used, such as punching the substrates with a die, etc. After the pad or carrier and the microfiber is pre-punched, the substrate can then be run through the bristling machine a second time to insert the tufts and the bristles. This pre-punching operation can improve the consistency of the bristling force required to penetrate the substrate. The pre-punching process can be conducted to create holes in the microfiber material that align with the holes and pods in the carrier or pad of the disclosed examples. This can result in more uniform bristle heights and a higher quality end product. In other embodiments, molding tools may incorporate additional elements that would capture the pad or carrier during the bristling step to stop the bristles from punching too far through the pad. This additional tooling may be incorporated in addition to the above mentioned two-step processes, or may be used in lieu of the additional pre-punching process, allowing for a single bristling step while still achieving uniform and quality bristling.

[0087] In addition, according to the disclosed embodiments, an extruded monofilament bristle may be used instead of an injection molded bristle.

Conventionally, oval brushes are bristled by pushing injection molded bristles through the back of the pad or carrier. However, because the pads may be pre-punched, according to some embodiments, an extruded bristle can now be inserted through the front of the bristle pad and secured to the back of the pad or carrier according to conventional techniques or by using the disclosed pods.

[0088] Although certain hair brushes with smoothing features, characteristics, and capabilities have been described herein in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure, the scope of coverage of this patent is not limited thereto. On the contrary, this patent covers all embodiments of the teachings of the disclosure that fairly fall within the scope of permissible equivalents.

Claims

What Is Claimed Is:

1. A hair brush comprising:

a brush head having a working surface;

a plurality of monofilament bristles protruding from the working surface of the brush head; and

a microfiber material exposed on a portion of the working surface of the brush head.

2. The hair brush according to claim 1, further comprising a plurality of bristle tufts protruding from the working surface of the brush head.

3. The hair brush according to claim 1, further comprising a bristle carrier connected to the brush head, the plurality of monofilament bristles attached to the bristle carrier.

4. The hair brush according to claim 1, further comprising:

a plurality of bristle tufts protruding from the working surface of the brush head; and

a bristle carrier connected to the brush head, the plurality of monofilament bristles and the plurality of bristle tufts attached to the bristle carrier.

5. The hair brush according to claim 4, wherein at least a portion of the monofilament bristles and/or a portion of the bristle tufts protrude through the microfiber material.

6. The hair brush according to claim 1, further comprising:

a bristle carrier connected to the brush head, the plurality of monofilament bristles attached to the bristle carrier, wherein the bristle carrier has a front side facing in the direction of the working surface, a back side facing the brush head, and a plurality of holes formed therethrough, each of the plurality of holes extending through a support pod protruding from the back side.

7. The hair brush according to claim 1, further comprising a plurality of bristle tufts protruding from the working surface of the brush head, wherein a least a portion of the plurality of bristle tufts is formed at least in part of boar bristles.

8. The hair brush according to claim 7, wherein each bristle of the plurality of bristle tufts is formed as a strand of boar hair that is bent in half to form two boar bristles.

9. The hair brush according to claim 1, further comprising a plurality of bristle tufts protruding from the working surface of the brush head, wherein at least some of the plurality of monofilament bristles are closely adjacent corresponding tufts of the plurality of bristle tufts.

10. The hair brush according to claim 1, wherein at least some of the plurality of monofilament bristles is formed of a Nylon material.

11. The hair brush according to claim 1, wherein at least some of the plurality of monofilament bristles is an extruded Nylon material with a free end dipped in a substance to form a ball on a tip of the free end.

12. The hair brush according to claim 1, further comprising a bristle carrier formed of a resilient, flexible material with a perimeter edge which is joined to the brush head.

13. The hair brush according to claim 12, further comprising support pods protruding from and spaced apart over a back side of the bristle carrier, each support pod defining a bristle hole through the bristle carrier.

14. The hair brush according to claim 13, wherein each of the plurality of monofilament bristles is secured in a different one of the support pods.

15. The hair brush according to claim 14, further comprising a plurality of bristle tufts protruding from the working surface of the brush head, wherein one or more of the plurality of bristle tufts is secured in a common one of the support pods along with one of the plurality of monofilament bristles.

16. The hair brush according to claim 12, further comprising a plurality of bristle tufts protruding from the working surface of the brush head, wherein the plurality of monofilament bristles is secured in a first set of the support pods and the plurality of bristle tufts is secured in a second set of the support pods different from the first set.

17. The hair brush according to claim 1, wherein the brush head is an oval or a rectangular shape defined by a perimeter and forming a pair of opposed faces, one of which defines the working surface.

18 The hair brush according to claim 1, wherein the brush head has a generally cylindrical shape with a circumferential outer surface defining the working surface.

19. The hair brush according to claim 1, further comprising a handle connected to and extending from the brush head.

20. The hair brush according to claim 1, wherein the microfiber material is a layer of microfiber cloth connected to a substantial majority of the working surface.

21. The hair brush according to claim 1, further comprising a bristle carrier coupled to the brush head, wherein the microfiber material includes two or more microfiber material segments connected to the bristle carrier on the working surface.

22. The hair brush according to claim 21, wherein each of the microfiber material segments is spaced from the other of the microfiber material segments.

23. The hair brush according to claim 21, wherein a ring secures a perimeter edge of the bristle carrier to the brush head.

24. The hair brush according to claim 23, wherein the ring is formed of a ceramic material or has a ceramic coating thereon.