WO2019122401A1

WO2019122401A1 - Hair treatment apparatus with improved sealing

Info

Publication number: WO2019122401A1
Application number: PCT/EP2018/086741
Authority: WO
Inventors: Baptiste Bonnemaire; Martial Maisonneuve; Eddy NGO; Jérôme Tougouchi
Original assignee: Seb S.A.
Priority date: 2017-12-22
Filing date: 2018-12-21
Publication date: 2019-06-27
Also published as: JP7349991B2; RU2020118162A; EP3727077B1; EP3727077A1; FR3075576A1; FR3075576B1; JP2021507757A; US20200329840A1; CN210144045U; CN109965481A; CN109965481B; RU2020118162A3

Abstract

Hair treatment apparatus (1) having: - first and second arms (4, 5) which are movable with respect to each other and which can adopt a spaced-apart configuration, for introduction of a lock of hair between them, and a closed configuration for treatment of the lock of hair, first and second contact surfaces (12, 3) carried respectively by the first and second arms (4, 5) and arranged opposite each other, at least one of said contact surfaces (12, 3) providing heat, - at least one steam outlet (20) carried by one of the arms (4) at a distance from the contact surface (13) situated on the same arm, in order to expose the hairs engaged between the arms (4, 5) to the steam, - at least the first arm (4) having at least one first part (40) supporting the first contact surface (12) and at least one second part (41) distinct from the first part and separated from the latter, - an elastically deformable sealing element (50) having a proximal portion (51) extending at least partially around the first contact surface (12) between the latter and the first support part (40), and a distal portion (52) extending in contact with the second part (41), the proximal portion (51) and the distal potion (52) being connected by an intermediate portion (53) which extends between the first (40) and second (41) parts and is configured to form a screen to the steam.

Description

APPARATUS FOR TREATING HAIR AT SEALING

IMPROVED

Technical field of the invention

The present invention relates to a hair treatment apparatus, and more particularly to an apparatus comprising a steam spraying device.

State of the art

It is known to smooth the hair with a smoothing forceps, such apparatus being called a straightener. This clamp makes it possible to smooth the hair fibers at high temperature without pulling on the hair, unlike brushings. However, to obtain a good smoothness, it is necessary to perform several passes of the clamp, which significantly increases the processing time. Moreover, the repeated application of the smoothing pliers can sometimes cause degradation of the hair fibers, due to the temperature at which the hair is exposed.

It is known to use steam for the treatment of hair, for example associated with a hot plate treatment, the steam being sprayed or diffused on the hair. Such a method can be implemented by a hair treatment apparatus and / or be associated with various cosmetic hair treatments. By way of example, mention may be made of EP 659 395, EP 659 393, EP 659 396, EP 659 397, US 2004/0000319, US 2004/0045570, JP 2000157322, EP1396207, EP1515628, EP1515629, EP1516554 and FR 2967017. WO 2004 / 002262.11 is also known to position a seal around the heating plates of a smoothing device.

JP 3609064 discloses a straightener in which each straightening plate is equipped with a seal ensuring tightness in case of moisture but also electrical leakage at the housing.

WO 2005/011434 discloses a straightener which each smoothing plate is equipped with a seal ensuring the sealing of the plates with the housing in case of steam release.

JP 2005087629 discloses a straightener, each straightening plate is equipped with a seal between the plate and the housing.

FR 3,015,195 relates to a hair treatment device comprising two arms movable relative to each other between a close configuration of treatment of the hair and a spread configuration of commitment between them hair to treat. At least one of the arms has a seal.

US 2016/360846 relates to a hair treatment device having two movable arms, each arm having a seal insulating the heating portion of the handle. CN205884964 and CN 205866296 are also related to hair straighteners.

Hair treatment apparatus having a water vaporization device such as that described by FR 2 967 017 in the form of steam with high vaporization rates generally comprise steam outlet nozzles placed on the outside of the vaporizer. apparatus. In this case, the steam is dispensed to the outside, in an infinite volume of air, so that the various parts of the apparatus are not or little exposed to steam.

On the other hand, as soon as the steam outlet nozzles are placed towards the inside of the apparatus, the steam is then dispensed in a restricted volume of air. This leads to different issues. Indeed, the steam seeking to escape from this restricted volume will partly enter the device, and condense either in contact with cold areas, or during cooling of the device may thus damage the device and cause malfunctions. Finally, steam that has not entered the device escapes along the outside of the hulls of the device. These shells being cold, especially at the beginning of treatment, the vapor that condenses on these external surfaces creates drips or drops of condensates that can hinder the user.

There is thus a need to benefit from a hair treatment apparatus implementing a vapor diffusion, which overcomes all or part of the problems encountered.

Presentation of the invention

The invention aims to meet this need and it achieves this through a hair treatment apparatus comprising:

- First and second movable arms relative to each other, which can take a remote configuration introduction of a lock of hair between them and a close configuration of treatment of the lock of hair, the first and second surfaces contact pads carried respectively by the first and second arms, arranged vis-a-vis, at least one of said contact surfaces being heated, at least one steam outlet carried by one of the arms at a distance from the contact surface situated on the same arm, for exposing the hair engaged between the arms to steam,

at least the first arm comprising at least a first support part of the first contact surface and at least a second part distinct from the first surface and separated from the latter,

an elastically deformable sealing element comprising a proximal portion extending at least partially around the first contact surface between the latter and the first support part and a distal portion extending in contact with the second part; the proximal and distal portions being connected by an intermediate portion extending between the first and second parts and forming a vapor screen.

Thanks to the invention, there is an apparatus limiting the amount of steam that can enter an interior space of the arms by the presence of the sealing member. In other words, the housing (that is to say the shell) which forms the wall of the arms is sealed against the vapor projected by the device.

The term "hair" includes the corresponding human or animal keratin fibers as well as synthetic fibers called "extensions" which are sometimes reported on the natural hair of a person by various means, especially by gluing, for example to change the appearance the natural hair of a person.

Preferably, at least the first contact surface, and preferably each of the contact surfaces, is pivotally mounted on the corresponding arm, for example via a ball joint or the like. The presence of the intermediate portion on the sealing member allows the latter to deform to accompany the pivoting of the contact surface, so that the movement of the latter is not unduly hampered by the presence of the sealing element. The contact surface can then rotate to better match the thickness of the lock of hair on contact, and the efficiency of the heat treatment is improved, while maintaining a perfect seal thanks to the presence of the three zones of the joint (proximal portion, distal portion, and intermediate portion that can deform). The developed length of the intermediate portion, measured in cross section, may be greater than 6 mm, especially 7.5 mm, in particular be between 7 mm and 13 mm, especially between 7.5 mm and 12 mm.

The intermediate portion connects the proximal and distal portions so that, if desired, it can have a difference in height and / or width, that is to say in a horizontal and / or vertical plane, between the proximal portion and the distal portion, preferably greater than 2 mm and advantageously substantially equal to 3.5 mm. The proximal portion advantageously extends around the entire periphery of the first contact surface. A seal is thus created around the entire periphery of this contact surface thus preventing water or any other element from penetrating inside the apparatus. In addition, this makes it possible to strengthen the mechanical fastening of the sealing element.

In one embodiment, the proximal portion is clamped between the first contact surface and a rib of the first part, in particular having a generally H-shaped cross section, with a groove engaged in a return of the first contact surface and an opposite groove engaged in said rib of the first piece. This makes it possible to hold the proximal portion of the sealing element around the contact surface in a sealed manner.

The distal portion of the sealing member may be clamped between the second piece and a third inner part of the first arm. This makes it possible to keep in place, in a sealed manner, at a distance from the first contact surface, the sealing element. In this case, the second piece may have a groove in which the distal portion is received at least partially, the third piece having a rib on the distal portion in line with said groove.

Said intermediate portion advantageously has at least one elbow in cross section. In the latter case, the intermediate portion is for example curved concave towards the opposite arm, preferably the arm carrying said at least one steam outlet, in particular with a U-shaped bottom in cross section. The intermediate portion may comprise several bends, in the manner of a bellows, such as an accordion bellows.

The width of the intermediate portion of the seal, measured in a plane perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the apparatus, is preferably greater than or equal to 1 mm. The presence and shape of the sealing element, with the proximal, intermediate and distal portions, creates an effective barrier against the vapor so that it does not penetrate inside the apparatus, along the first contact surface. In addition, the intermediate portion has a flexibility that allows it to accept greater positioning tolerance of the first and second parts relative to each other. This variation in positioning between the first and second parts can indeed be involuntary resulting for example from variation of fabrications, or conversely and advantageously, be voluntary resulting from a controlled mobility of the first contact surface. According to this advantageous embodiment, the first piece is preferably in ball joint connection with the housing of the apparatus so that it allows to give different degrees of freedom to the smoothing contact surface for the latter can best adapt to the the thickness and positioning of the lock of hair. Such an assembly is known to those skilled in the art or for example document FR3011449 so that it is not detailed here.

The first contact surface may have a generally rectangular outline and the intermediate portion and the distal portion may extend around three of the four sides of the first contact surface only. This limits the size associated with the sealing element and therefore the width of the device while forming screen steam. In this case, the intermediate portion and the distal portion are advantageously absent on the side of the first contact surface farthest from said at least one steam outlet. In other words, the sealing element then comprises a bellows on three of these four sides, thus offering a remarkable compromise between sealing, flexibility and bulk.

The intermediate portion may have a height that varies along at least one side of the first contact surface, and better along each side of the first contact surface. In this case, the height of the intermediate portion is preferably at least substantially mid-length of at least one side of the first contact surface and increases towards the ends of said side to be maximum at the corners. This difference in height is advantageously provided to allow the movements of the contact surface in case of pivoting thereof, movements whose amplitude increases with the distance to the center of the rotation. The developed length of the intermediate portion, measured in cross section, is thus maximum at the angles, being at this point for example between 10 and 13 mm, being preferably equal to 11.7 mm. The developed length of the intermediate portion, measured in cross section, is minimal in the middle of the sides, being at this point for example between 6 mm and 10 mm, being preferably equal to 7.9 mm.

In one embodiment, the sealing element has a non-symmetrical shape with respect to a median plane passing through the first contact surface parallel to a longitudinal axis of the apparatus and perpendicularly to a heating surface of the first surface of the apparatus. contact facing the second contact surface. This lack of symmetry is linked to the absence of intermediate portion and distal portion on one side of the first contact surface and reduces, as explained above, the width of the device, without, however, affecting the seal.

The sealing element is preferably present on a single arm, said at least one vapor outlet being then carried by the other arm. Advantageously, the concave curved portion of the sealing element is slightly offset relative to the steam outlet, for example by being shifted by 7 mm.

The apparatus may comprise a cartridge containing a cosmetic composition. In this case, the second piece can serve as a support for said cartridge, in particular having a slide in which the cartridge is engaged.

Still in this case, the cartridge may comprise a porous material impregnated with said composition, in particular a felt, and the second part comprise a rib which bears against said porous material, on the opposite side to the sealing element, the penetrating rib preferably partially in said porous material. Thus, the second piece with its rib form sealing with the porous material vis-à-vis the vapor emitted by said at least one steam outlet, which is more without generating additional cost.

In a variant, the apparatus may not include a reservoir for a cosmetic composition or a cosmetic composition applicator.

The second part advantageously faces said at least one steam outlet.

The apparatus may also comprise at least one comb comprising at least one row of teeth, the comb being preferably carried by the second arm. The apparatus advantageously comprises a zone confined around said at least one steam outlet. By "confined zone" is meant at least one part or set of parts that allows at least partial confinement of the steam generated by the at least one steam outlet. This confined area may be delimited by at least one of the following: a composition cartridge to be applied to the lock of hair, a comb, a confinement structure disposed substantially opposite to the at least one steam outlet, such a containment structure comprising for example at least one groove facing said at least one steam outlet and optionally, when the apparatus comprises a comb, a cowling of said comb, the second piece, a side of the first and second surface contact and any other element of the apparatus partially creating a confinement around said at least one steam outlet.

The presence of this confined zone makes the presence of the sealing element all the more useful.

The at least partial confinement makes it possible to locally accumulate more vapor in the volume between the at least one vapor outlet and the confinement structure, which can lead to a reduction in the steam flow required for the treatment of the hair. It can reduce the amount of steam needed for treatment, so extend the life of the device and reduce the amount of residual moisture hair out of the device. In addition, the confined zone can contribute to a better distribution of steam longitudinally between the steam outlets. The lock of hair can thus be treated more homogeneously in the transverse direction. Furthermore, the relative partitioning created by the confined area allows to apply the bulk of the steam only locally, during the passage of the lock of hair in the area at the level of said at least one steam outlet.

The apparatus according to the invention may be self-contained, with an integrated water reservoir, or comprise a handpiece which is formed by the arms and a base station to which the handpiece is connected, which comprises a reservoir containing the water intended for the production of steam.

The cumulative steam flow rate for the steam outlet (s) is preferably between 0.5 and 1.1 g / min, preferably 3.5 or less. g / min, better than or equal to 1 g / min, for example between 0.7 g / min and 0.9 g / min.

Said at least one steam outlet advantageously comprises at least one vapor ejection channel and at least one steam ejection nozzle. This channel may be oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the corresponding arm. The nozzle may have the same orientation; thus, the vapor is emitted in a direction perpendicular to the contact surfaces, i.e. in a direction perpendicular to the running direction of the lock of hair in the apparatus. Preferably, the nozzle or nozzles are of conical shape with circular section, the section of the nozzles widening towards the outlet of the nozzles. The or each steam ejection nozzle is preferably mounted at one end of the or each steam ejection channel. The nozzles may be identical to each other. The channels can be identical to each other.

The steam outlet (s) is preferably fed with steam by a vaporization chamber which is itself supplied with water by a pump. The vapor is preferably water vapor, especially without additive.

The apparatus may comprise a heating device of the first contact surface consisting of a positive temperature coefficient thermistor, called PTC, and a device for measuring the temperature of the heating device consisting of a thermistor with a temperature coefficient negative, called CTN.

When the apparatus comprises a thermistor with a positive temperature coefficient and a negative coefficient thermistor, these may advantageously be disposed behind the first contact surface, and the apparatus may comprise two plugs, in particular made of silicone, arranged at the longitudinal ends. housing that receives them. This makes it possible to protect the PTC and CTN thermistors from any presence of condensate which could shorten lines of leaks and generate a risk for the user.

Each plug is advantageously perforated with two holes in order to allow the NTC thermistor wires to pass in front of the first contact surface and the CTP thermistor wires to the rear of the first contact surface.

The apparatus may include a cartridge sensing switch, which switch is in a housing having two portions, which may be ultrasonically welded. The passage of wires of the switch and a movable finger of detection of the cartridge can be achieved by seals, especially silicone, wedged between the two parts of the housing before welding.

When the vapor is emitted in a confined area, it can not escape vertically or laterally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the apparatus. Thus, steam can escape longitudinally, from the front of the device or from the rear side of a gripping area of the device. The grip zone is a cooler zone. It is undesirable that the steam escapes to the gripping zone, taken in hand by the user during operation of the apparatus, because of the risk of associated discomfort or even burning. The apparatus may thus comprise a seal positioned behind said at least one steam outlet, in particular behind the last nozzle, on the side of the grip zone of the apparatus. This seal is fixed for example on the second arm, and is configured to come into contact with the first arm in the close position of the arms. The seal is preferably disposed between the end of the at least one steam outlet and a pivot connection allowing the arms to form a clip. It is intended to extend, in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the apparatus, behind the contact surfaces and behind the at least one steam outlet, so as to provide a rear wall forcing the steam to escape from the front of the device.

The aforesaid third piece may advantageously have an elongate wall towards the gripping zone of the apparatus, towards the rear thereof. The third piece is in at least indirect contact with the first contact surface. Thus, as soon as the apparatus is switched on, the third piece is heated and can, by its elongate wall towards the gripping zone, accelerate the heating of the shell of the first arm, so as to limit the risk of condensation. steam on the inner and outer surfaces of this hull.

The vaporization chamber is advantageously supported by a support element in the second arm. The support member of the vaporization chamber may comprise an elongated wall towards the gripping zone of the apparatus. This provides calories to the inner and outer surfaces of the shell of the second arm to limit condensation on these surfaces. The invention further relates, in another of its aspects, in combination or independently of all or part of the foregoing, a hair treatment apparatus comprising:

- First and second movable arms relative to each other, which can take a remote configuration introduction of a lock of hair between them and a close configuration of treatment of the lock of hair, the first and second surfaces contact pads carried respectively by the first and second arms, arranged vis-a-vis, at least one of said contact surfaces being heated,

at least one steam outlet carried by one of the arms at a distance from the contact surface situated on the same arm, for exposing the hair engaged between the arms to steam,

a heating device of the first contact surface consisting of a positive temperature coefficient thermistor, called PTC, and a device for measuring the temperature of the heating device consisting of a thermistor with a negative temperature coefficient, called CTN. , the PTC thermistor and the NTC thermistor being disposed behind the first contact surface, the apparatus comprising two plugs, in particular silicone, arranged at the longitudinal ends of the housing receiving the thermistor and the temperature measuring device.

This makes it possible to protect the PTC and CTN thermistors from any presence of condensate which could, as mentioned above, shorten lines of leaks and generate a risk for the user.

The invention further relates, in another of its aspects, in combination or independently of all or part of the foregoing, a hair treatment apparatus comprising:

- First and second movable arms relative to each other, which can take a remote configuration introduction of a lock of hair between them and a close configuration of treatment of the lock of hair, the first and second surfaces contact pads carried respectively by the first and second arms, arranged vis-à-vis, Tune at least said contact surfaces being heated, at least one steam outlet, comprising in particular at least one nozzle, carried by one of the arms at a distance from the contact surface situated on the same arm, to expose the hair engaged between the arms to steam,

a seal located behind said at least one steam outlet, in particular behind the last nozzle, on the side of the gripping zone of the apparatus, said seal being fixed on the second arm, and being configured for contacting the first arm in the close position of the arms, the seal being preferably disposed between the end of said at least one steam outlet and a pivot connection allowing the arms to form a clamp.

Such a seal may be provided to extend, in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the apparatus, behind the contact surfaces and behind the at least one steam outlet, so as to provide a rear wall. to force the steam to escape from the front of the unit.

Brief description of the figures

The invention will be better understood on reading the detailed description which follows, examples of non-limiting implementation thereof, and on examining the appended drawing, in which:

FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic perspective view of an example of an apparatus for treating the hair of the invention,

FIG. 2 schematically represents, in perspective seen from the other side, the apparatus of FIG. 1, the apparatus having been turned over,

FIG. 3 schematically represents, in front perspective, the apparatus of FIG.

FIG. 4 is a diagrammatic and partial side view of an exemplary apparatus according to the invention,

FIG. 5 is a diagrammatic cross-sectional view of the apparatus of FIG. 1,

FIG. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of another example of apparatus according to the invention,

FIG. 7 is a diagrammatic and partial view, in cross section and in perspective, of a detail of the apparatus of FIG. 6, FIG. 8 is a diagrammatic and partial view, in longitudinal section and in perspective, of another detail of the apparatus of FIG. 6,

FIG. 9 is a diagrammatic and partial view, in cross-section and in perspective, of another detail of the apparatus of FIG. 6

FIG. 10 is a diagrammatic perspective view, in isolation, of the switch box of the apparatus of FIG. 6,

FIG. 11 is a diagrammatic and partial view, in longitudinal section and in perspective, of a detail of the apparatus of FIG. 6,

FIG. 12 is a diagrammatic and partial view, in cross-section and in perspective, of another detail of the apparatus of FIG. 6,

FIG. 13 is a diagrammatic and partial view, in longitudinal section and in perspective, of another detail of the apparatus of FIG. 6,

FIG. 14 is a diagrammatic and partial view, in longitudinal section and in perspective, of a detail of the apparatus of FIG. 6, and

FIG. 15 is an isolated schematic perspective view of the sealing element of the apparatus of FIG. 5.

Detailed description of embodiments

In the remainder of the description, identical elements or identical functions bear the same reference sign. Their detailed description is not repeated with respect to each of the figures, only the main differences between the embodiments being mentioned.

FIG. 1 depicts an apparatus 1 for treating the hair, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment according to the invention.

In the example illustrated, the apparatus 1 is autonomous, with integrated water tank 2. Only a portion of the power cord 3 is visible in Figures 1 and 2.

The apparatus 1 comprises a first arm 4 and a second arm 5 extending along a longitudinal axis Y of the apparatus 1, movable with respect to each other, which can take a remote introduction configuration of a lock of hair between them and a close configuration of treatment of the lock of hair. Figures 1, 2 and 3 in particular illustrate this last configuration. Figure 4 represents, within a apparatus 1, the configuration spaced apart from the first and second arms 4 and 5 for introducing a lock of hair between them.

The first and second arms 4 and 5 are hinged together by means of a pivot connection 6 so as to form a clamp. The housing of each of the first and second arms 4 and 5 comprises a shell, respectively referenced 17 and 18, which houses different constituent elements. The first and second arms 4 and 5 are movable in the close configuration along the lock of hair to be treated and comprise respective proximal portions 4a and 5a which can be concomitantly grasped with one hand to manipulate the apparatus 1.

The first and second arms 4 and 5 also comprise respective distal portions 4b and 5b equipped with corresponding first and second plates 10 and 11 facing each other which make it possible to pinch the hair between them.

The first and second plates 10 and 11 define respective first and second contact surfaces 12 and 13, which are heating. By "contact" means contact with the lock of hair or any other hair fiber as mentioned above.

In the illustrated example, the first and second contact surfaces 12 and 13 are substantially planar.

The first plate 10 is heated by at least one resistive heating element 15, in this case a PTC thermistor, received in a housing 22 of the first arm 4, not far from the surface 12 of contact. Alternatively, the first and second plates 10 and 11 are each heated by a clean heating device, in which case another resistive heating element is mounted in the housing 23, for example.

It should be noted that variant shapes can be envisaged for the first and second contact surfaces 12 and 13. It is possible, for example, to use curved surfaces, such as on certain hair-styling devices that allow the curling of hair, or even wavy, such as those used for embossing the hair, or even equipped with a plurality of protuberances, such as teeth for example. Preferably, the contact surfaces are complementary so as to pinch the lock of hair.

The apparatus 1 also comprises at least one steam outlet 20, in this case several outlets, carried by the second arm 5, in this example at a distance of the second plate 11, for steam exposing the hair engaged between the first and second arms 4 and 5 when they are in this steam application zone.

The apparatus 1 comprises at least one comb 30 comprising at least one row of teeth 31, the comb 30 being in this example carried by the second arm 5. The comb may comprise rigid teeth and / or flexible bristles such as for example tufts of silk hair or a combination of rigid teeth and soft bristles.

In this example, the first arm 4 comprises at least a first support part 40 of the first plate 10 and at least a second part 41 separate from the first and separate from the latter.

The apparatus 1 further comprises, in accordance with the invention, a resiliently deformable sealing element 50 comprising a proximal portion 51 extending at least partially around the first plate 10 between the latter and the first piece 40 and a distal portion 52 extending in contact with the second piece 41, the proximal portion 51 and distal portion 52 being connected by an intermediate portion 53 extending between the first and second pieces 40 and 4L

The width l _\ of the intermediate portion 53, measured in a plane transverse to the longitudinal axis Y of the apparatus 1, can be greater than 1 mm, being in particular less than 4 mm.

The developed length of the intermediate portion 53 measured in a transverse plane may be greater than 5 mm, especially 7 mm.

The intermediate portion 53 connects the proximal portions 51 and distal 52 so that it is possible to have an altitude difference Ah between a low point P of the proximal portion 51 and a low point Q of the distal portion 52, for example visible in FIG. 5, preferably greater than 2 mm ..., being for example less than 6 mm being for example substantially equal to 3.6 mm.

The total height of the sealing element 50, which corresponds to the distance measured between the point P and the apex of the concave part of the intermediate portion 53, is preferably between 5 and 15 mm, knowing that this height changes according to the In particular, as seen in FIG. 15, this height is minimal in the middle of the length while it is maximum in the corners. Advantageously, the minimum height is substantially equal to 8 mm and the maximum height is substantially equal to 10 mm. The proximal portion 51 extends around the entire periphery of the first plate 10.

As can be seen in FIG. 5, the proximal portion 51 of the sealing element 50 is clamped between the first plate 10 and a rib 55 of the first part 40. In this example, the proximal portion 51 has a section cross section generally in the form of H. The proximal portion 51 has a groove 56 engaged in a return 57 of the first plate 10 and an opposite groove 58 engaged in the rib 55 of the first piece 40.

The distal portion 52 is pinched between the second piece 41 and a third internal piece 42 of the first arm 4, formed in this example by an inner part of the shell 17.

The intermediate portion 53 has at least one elbow in cross section. In the illustrated example, the intermediate portion 53 is concave curved toward the opposite arm, with a U-shaped bottom in cross section.

The first plate 10 has a generally rectangular outline with four sides. The intermediate portion 53 and the distal portion 52 extend around three of the four sides of the first plate 10 only. The intermediate portion 53 and the distal portion 52 are absent on the side 16 of the first plate 10 furthest from the said at least one steam outlet 20. Thus, FIG. 5 shows the sealing element 50 on the the first plate 10 which is opposed to the steam outlet 20 which has only the proximal portion 51. The other three sides of the first plate 10, as shown in Figure 15, are surrounded by the entire proximal portion 51 , the distal portion 52 and the intermediate portion 53 of the sealing member 50. This reduces the width of the device 1 without substantially impairing the seal.

In particular, the sealing element 50 has a non-symmetrical shape, as can be seen in particular in FIG. 15, with respect to a median plane passing through the first plate 10 parallel to the longitudinal axis Y of the apparatus 1 and perpendicularly to a contact surface 12 of the first plate 10 facing the second plate 11.

Still in this example, the sealing element 50 is present on a single arm, namely the first arm 4, said at least one steam outlet 20 being carried by the other arm, namely the second arm 5. Preferably the sealing element 50 and in particular the intermediate portion 53 is situated in the zone of ejection of the vapor, optionally slightly offset from said at least one steam outlet 20 so as to form a screen with steam. "Slightly offset" means an offset of between 2 and 15 mm and advantageously substantially equal to 7 mm with respect to the axis of ejection of the steam. Preferably, the offset is towards the inside of the apparatus.

In this example, the apparatus 1 does not include a reservoir for a cosmetic composition or a cosmetic composition applicator.

The second piece 41 faces said at least one steam outlet 20.

In the illustrated example, the apparatus 1 comprises a confined zone 90 around said at least one vapor outlet 20. The confined zone 90 is delimited in this example by the confinement structure 21 formed by the second piece 41 which allows the less a partial containment of the vapor emitted by the apparatus. This containment structure 21 comprises in this example a groove 25 opposite the steam outlets 20. The confined area 90 is also delimited by the comb 30. The containment structure 21 also comprises a cowling 91 of said comb 30.

The first plate 10 is, in the example illustrated in FIG. 5 or 6, pivotally mounted on the corresponding first arm 4 via the engagement of a sphere-shaped head 110 formed in the first piece 40, in a housing defined by a cylindrical wall 111 formed with the shell 17 of the first arm 4.

The support of the spherical surface of the head 110 on the circular edge of the wall 111 creates a ball joint which allows the first plate 10 to pivot when the thickness of the lock of hair which is pinched between the plates is not homogeneous or not placed in the center of the first plate 10, and thus to have a greater contact area with the wick. FIG. 5 shows a helical spring 62 which bears at one end in the bottom of the housing defined by the cylindrical wall 111 and at the other end against the head 110. The deformability of the sealing element 50 thanks to at the intermediate portion 53 allows it to accompany this pivoting of the first plate 10 while acting as a barrier vis-à-vis the steam. Indeed, the bellows shape of said intermediate portion 53 gives the sealing element a remarkable flexibility, while its proximal portion 51 and distal 53 are fixed respectively with the first plate 10 and the second piece 4L The lower part of the second arm 5 houses the vaporization chamber which allows the creation of the vapor which is then projected through the outlets 20 via the channels 26 and nozzles 27.

Such a vaporization chamber may comprise a heating device consisting of a positive temperature coefficient thermistor, called PTC, and a device for measuring the temperature of the heating device consisting of a thermistor with a negative temperature coefficient, called CTN. .

The total steam flow delivered by all the steam outlets can be between 0.5 g / min and 0.8 g / min or between 2 and 2.5 g / min.

The vaporization chamber is itself fed by means of an electric pump and in particular a peristaltic pump, itself connected to the reservoir 2, these elements being preferably in the second arm 5.

The apparatus 1 may further include an electronic card, not shown, configured to handle the power supply of the resistive heating elements to control the operating temperature. This electronic card can be arranged inside one of the two arms 4 or 5, for example in the proximal portion 5a of the arm 5, and have a user interface.

The apparatus 1 may further comprise a magnetic sensor, not shown, of the ILS flexible leaf switch type, which makes it possible to detect the close configuration of the arms 4 and 5, in which the surfaces 12 and 13 are substantially one against the other. another to pinch the lock of hair to be treated. In another variant, the flexible blade switch could be replaced by a magneto-resistive sensor MRS, or by any other means of detection.

In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 6 to 14, the second part 41 is different. In this example, as can be seen in particular in FIG. 6, the second piece 41 has a groove 60 in which the distal portion 52 is at least partially received, the third piece 42 having a rib 61 applied to the distal portion 52 to the distal portion 52. plumb with said groove 60.

Still in this example, as in the previous example visible in Figure 15 and as visible in this example in Figures 7 and 8 in particular, the intermediate portion 53 has a height h which varies along at least one side of the first plate 10, and along each side of the first plate 10 in which the intermediate portion 53 is present.

As seen in Figures 7 and 8, the height h of the intermediate portion 53 is at least substantially mid-length of at least one side of the first plate 10 and increases towards the ends of said side.

The difference in height h of the intermediate portion 53, maximum at the corners of the sides of the first plate 10 and minimum at the centers of the sides of the first plate 10 is in particular chosen so as to allow the pivoting of the first plate 10. In fact, the further one moves away from the head 110, the more the movements of the first plate 10 during a pivoting of a given angle are of high amplitude. These movements of high amplitude are then remarkably facilitated by the maximum difference in height h at the corners, since the length of the bellows is then maximized.

In this example, the water tank is not integrated in the apparatus 1 but in a separate station.

As illustrated, the apparatus 1 may comprise a cartridge 80 containing a cosmetic composition C to be applied to the hair, the second part 41 serving to support said cartridge 80. The second part 41 may then have a slideway 81 in which the cartridge 80 is engaged. The cartridge 80 comprises a porous material 82 impregnated with said composition C. In the example illustrated, the porous material 82 is a felt. As can be seen in FIGS. 6 and 9, the second part 41 has a rib 85 applied against said porous material 82, on the opposite side to the sealing element 50. In this example, the rib 85 penetrates partially into the material porous 82, as visible.

The cartridge 80 is also held in place, in this example being engaged in a slideway 86 of the apparatus 1.

On the second arm 5, a spring 107 makes it possible to press the hair, during their passage, by plating a surface 108 against the lower edge 109 of the porous material 82, as can be seen in particular in FIG. 12.

In this example, the confined area 90 is delimited by the cartridge 80, the comb 30 and one side of the first and second plates 10 and 11.

In this example again, the apparatus 1 comprises a heating device of the first plate 10 consisting of a thermistor with a positive temperature coefficient CTP. 15 and a device for measuring the temperature of the heating device consisting of a negative coefficient thermistor CTN 101. The thermistors CTP 15 and CTN 101 are, as visible in FIG. 8, arranged behind the first plate 10. The device 1 comprises two plugs 102, for example silicone, arranged at their longitudinal ends. This makes it possible to protect the thermistors 15 and 101 from any possible presence of condensate which could shorten the lines of leaks and generate a risk for the user.

Each plug 102 is advantageously perforated with two holes, not visible in the figure for the sake of clarity of the drawing, to let the son of the thermistor 101 at the front of the first plate 10 and the son of the thermistor 15 to the back of the first plate 10.

The apparatus 1 also comprises, as can be seen in FIG. 10, a switch 105 for detecting the presence of the cartridge, present in a housing 106 comprising two parts welded together by ultrasound. The passage of the son of the switch and a mobile detection finger is made through seals, especially silicone, wedged between the two parts of the housing 106 before welding.

The apparatus 1 further comprises, in this example, as visible in Figures 11 and 12, a seal 120 positioned behind the last nozzle 27a, the side of the gripping area of the apparatus. This seal 120 is fixed on the second arm 5, and is configured to come into contact with the first arm 4 in the close position of the arms 4 and 5. The seal 120 is disposed between the last steam nozzle 27a and the pivot connection 6 allowing the arms to form a clamp. The seal 120 extends, in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the apparatus, behind the plates 10 and 11 and behind the last nozzle 27a, so as to force the vapor to escape through the before the device 1 and thus preserve the gripping area of the steam. The hand of the user is therefore not likely to be burned and the condensation of steam on the gripping area is avoided. This also avoids the formation of condensates on unidentified areas.

The third piece 42 has, as can be seen in FIG. 13, a wall 112 extending towards the gripping zone of the apparatus 1, towards the rear of the latter. This third piece 42 is in at least indirect contact with the first plate 10. Thus, as soon as the apparatus 1 is put into operation, the third piece 42 is heated and can, by its wall 112, accelerate the heating of the shell 17 of the first arm 4, so as to limit condensation on the inner and outer surfaces of the shell 17.

Similarly, as illustrated in FIG. 14, in the second arm 5, the support element 114 of the vaporization chamber may comprise a wall 115 that is elongated towards the gripping zone of the apparatus 1. This makes it possible to provide calories to the inner and outer surfaces of the shell 18 of the second arm 5 to limit condensation thereon.

Claims

Apparatus (1) for treating the hair, comprising:

first and second arms (4, 5) movable relative to each other, which can take a remote configuration of introduction of a lock of hair between them and a close configuration of treatment of the lock of hair, first and second contact surfaces (12, 13) carried respectively by the first and second arms (4, 5), arranged facing each other, at least one of said contact surfaces (12, 13) being heated,

at least one steam outlet (20) carried by one of the arms (4) away from the contact surface (13) on the same arm, for steam exposing the hair engaged between the arms (4, 5). ), at least the first arm (4) having at least one first support part (40) of the first contact surface (12) and at least one second part (41) separate from the first one and separated therefrom, a resiliently deformable sealing element (50) having a proximal portion (51) extending at least partially around the first contact surface (12) between the latter and the first support part (40) and a portion distal portion (52) extending in contact with the second piece (41), the proximal (51) and distal (52) portions being connected by an intermediate portion (53) extending between the first (40) and second (41) ) parts and configured to form screen with steam.

2. Apparatus (1) according to claim 1, the proximal portion (51) extending all the way around the first contact surface (12)

3. Apparatus (1) according to one of claims 1 and 2, the proximal portion (51) being clamped between the first contact surface (12) and a rib (55) of the first piece (40), in particular having a cross section generally H-shaped, with a groove (56) engaged in a return (57) of the first contact surface (12) and an opposite groove (58) engaged in said rib (55) of the first part (40) ).

4. Apparatus (1) according to any preceding claim, the distal portion (52) being clamped between the second piece (41) and a third piece (42) internal first arm (4).

5. Apparatus (1) according to claim 4, the second piece (41) having a groove (60) in which the distal portion (52) is at least partially received, the third piece (42) having a rib (61) s applying on the distal portion (52) in line with said groove (60).

6. Apparatus (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, said intermediate portion (53) having at least one bend in cross section.

7. Apparatus (1) according to claim 6, the intermediate portion (53) being curved concave towards the opposite arm, in particular with a U-shaped bottom in cross section.

8. Apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, the first contact surface (12) having a contour of generally rectangular shape and the intermediate portion (53) and the distal portion (52) extending around three of the four sides of the first contact surface (12) only.

9. Apparatus (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the intermediate portion (53) and the distal portion (52) are absent on the side (16) of the first contact surface (12) furthest from said at least one steam outlet (20).

10. Apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the first contact surface (12) is pivotally mounted on the first arm (4), in particular via a ball joint or the like .

Apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the intermediate portion (53) has a height (h) which varies along at least one side of the first contact surface (12) , and better along each side of the first contact surface (12).

12. Apparatus (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the height (h) of the intermediate portion (53) is at least substantially mid-length of at least one side of the first contact surface (12) and increases towards the ends of said side.

Apparatus (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the sealing element (50) has a non-symmetrical shape with respect to a median plane (M) passing through the first contact surface (12) in parallel to an axis longitudinal (Y) of the apparatus (1) and perpendicular to a heating surface (12) of the first contact surface (12) facing the second contact surface (13).

14. Apparatus (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the sealing element (50) is present on a single arm (4), said at least one vapor outlet being carried by the other arm (5).

15. Apparatus (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a cartridge (80) containing a cosmetic composition (C), the second piece (41) serving to support said cartridge (80), in particular having a slide ( 81) in which the cartridge (80) is engaged.

16. Apparatus (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, the second part (41) facing said at least one steam outlet (20).

17. Apparatus (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising at least one comb (30) having at least one row of teeth (31), the comb (30) being preferably carried by the second arm (5). .

Apparatus (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, having a confined area (90) around said at least one steam outlet (20).

19. Apparatus (1) according to claim 18, the confined area (90) being delimited by at least one of the following: a cartridge (80) of composition (C) to be applied to the lock of hair, a comb ( 30) and a confinement structure (21) disposed substantially opposite said at least one steam outlet (20), such a confinement structure (21) including in particular at least one groove (25) facing said at least one steam outlet (20) and optionally, when the apparatus (1) comprises a comb (30), a cowling (91) of said comb (30), the second piece (41), a side of the first and second contact surfaces (12, 13) or any other element of the apparatus partially creating a confinement around said at least one steam outlet (20).

20. Apparatus (1) according to any preceding claim, comprising a seal (120) positioned behind said at least one steam outlet (20), in particular behind the last nozzle (27a), on the side of the gripping zone of the apparatus (1), said seal (120) being fixed on the second arm (5), and being configured to come into contact with the first arm (4) in the close position of the arms, the seal (120) being preferably disposed between the end of the at least one a steam outlet (20) and a pivot connection (6) allowing the arms (4, 5) to form a clamp.

21. Apparatus (1) according to claim 4, the third piece (42) having an elongated wall (112) towards the gripping area of the apparatus (1), rearwardly thereof.