WO2023126602A1

WO2023126602A1 - Steam hairstyling appliance

Info

Publication number: WO2023126602A1
Application number: PCT/FR2022/052489
Authority: WO
Inventors: Thierry Planterose; David CASTEBERT
Original assignee: Seb S.A.
Priority date: 2021-12-30
Filing date: 2022-12-22
Publication date: 2023-07-06
Also published as: FR3131514A1

Abstract

- The invention relates to a steam hairstyling appliance (1) comprising a device for vaporising liquid in order to generate, from a liquid, a flow of steam intended to be directed towards and onto a user's hair, a supply device for supplying the vaporisation device with liquid, and a control system configured to control at least the operation of said supply device, the control system being configured to implement a working operating mode in which the supply device supplies the vaporisation device at a first supply mass flow rate, and a transient operating mode prior to the working operating mode, in which transient operating mode the supply device (6) supplies the vaporisation device at a second supply mass flow rate which is greater than the first supply mass flow rate. - Hairstyling appliances

Description

STEAM STYLING APPLIANCE

TECHNICAL AREA

The present invention relates to the general technical field of hairdressing appliances, for example for domestic use, intended to ensure shaping, and / or embellishment and / or improvement of the health of the hair, and more precisely in the field of electrically portable hairdressing appliances such as hairdressing brushes, smoothing brushes, detangling brushes or straighteners.

[0002] The invention relates more specifically to a steam hairdressing device comprising a liquid vaporization device for generating, from a liquid, a flow of steam intended to be directed towards and on the hair of a user, a supply device for supplying liquid to the vaporizing device and a control system configured to control at least the operation of the liquid supply device.

PRIOR TECHNIQUE

[0003] Hairdressing appliances are known which make it possible to subject the hair to a stream of water vapour, in association with a mechanical and thermal treatment. This thermomechanical steam treatment is for example carried out by means of a brush comprising heating pins carried by a brush head which is also provided with orifices diffusing steam. This emission of steam, associated with the mechanical brushing action as well as the thermal action procured by the heating pins, facilitates the styling operation and makes it possible to improve its efficiency, while preserving, at least to a certain extent measurement, the appearance of the hair.

[0004] Nevertheless, the start-up of the steam generation function of these devices can sometimes be improved. In particular, instabilities in the flow rate of the steam flow generated can sometimes be observed. In addition, the user does not necessarily have any indication as to the fact that the device's vapor emission means are indeed functional. It is then sometimes difficult for the user to know whether the device is really ready to be used or is even simply functional. DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

[0005] The objects assigned to the invention therefore aim to provide a response to the above-mentioned needs and problems, and to propose in particular a new steam hairdressing appliance having a steam generation function with optimized operation, in particular at start-up. of the device.

[0006] Another object of the invention aims to provide a new hairdressing appliance whose use is particularly intuitive, in particular for a user lacking any particular hairdressing skills.

[0007] Another object of the invention aims to provide a new hairdressing appliance whose use is particularly practical and simple.

[0008] Another object of the invention is to provide a new hairdressing appliance whose design makes it possible to subject the hair in a particularly effective manner to a flow of steam.

[0009] Another object of the invention aims to provide a new hairdressing appliance whose use is particularly safe and comfortable, with a minimized risk of burns.

[0010] Another object of the invention is to provide a new hairdressing device which, while making it possible to obtain, easily and quickly, particularly satisfactory hair styling and shaping effects, significantly improves the appearance of the hair, and in particular its shine, as well as its surface condition.

[0011] Another object of the invention aims to provide a new process for producing steam by a hairdressing appliance allowing optimized operation of a function for generating steam of the hairdressing appliance, in particular at the start of this last.

Another object of the invention aims to provide a new process for producing steam by a hairdressing device which is particularly simple, practical, efficient and easily understood by the user. [0013] The objects assigned to the invention are achieved with the aid of a steam styling appliance comprising a liquid vaporization device for generating, from a liquid, a flow of steam intended to be directed towards and on a user's hair, a supply device for supplying liquid to the vaporizing device, and a control system configured to control at least the operation of said supply device, said control system being configured to work

- an operational mode of operation, in which the supply device supplies liquid to the vaporization device according to a first mass feed rate, and

- a transient mode of operation prior to said operational mode of operation, in which the supply device supplies liquid to the vaporization device according to a second supply mass flow rate which is greater than said first supply mass flow rate.

[0014] The objects assigned to the invention are also achieved with the aid of a process for producing steam by a steam hairdressing appliance comprising a liquid vaporization device for generating, from a liquid, a stream of vapor intended to be directed towards and on the hair of a user and a supply device for supplying liquid to the vaporization device, said method being characterized in that it comprises:

- a step of operational operation of the hairdressing appliance, during which the supply device supplies the vaporization device with liquid according to a first mass supply flow rate, and

- a transitional operating step of the hairdressing appliance, prior to said operational operating step, and during which the supply device supplies the vaporization device with liquid according to a second mass supply flow rate which is greater than said first flow rate feed mass. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Other features and advantages of the invention will appear and emerge in more detail on reading the description given below, with reference to the accompanying drawings, given solely by way of illustrative and non-limiting examples, among which :

- Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of a hairdressing appliance according to the invention, consisting in this case of a hairdressing brush;

- Figure 2 is a schematic perspective view of the hairdressing appliance of Figure 1, of which cowling elements and head elements have been omitted so as to show details of the internal design of the appliance. Furthermore, a pipe element connecting the liquid supply device to the vaporization device of said liquid has been omitted;

- Figure 3 is an exploded view of a hairdressing appliance according to the invention. Certain elements of piping and electrical wiring in particular have been omitted;

- Figure 4 is a schematic perspective view of the head of the hairdressing appliances of the previous figures;

- Figure 5 illustrates in isolation, in a schematic perspective view, a one-piece part, for example cast aluminum, which contributes to form the head of Figure 3 or that of Figure 4, and which here form part of the pins heaters and steam pins;

- Figure 6 schematically illustrates in the form of a graph an example of configuration of the control system of the liquid supply device of an apparatus according to the invention;

- Figure 7 schematically illustrates in the form of a graph another example of configuration of the control system of the liquid supply device of an apparatus according to the invention; - Figure 8 schematically illustrates in the form of a graph yet another example of configuration of the control system of the liquid supply device of an apparatus according to the invention;

- Figure 9 schematically illustrates in the form of a graph yet another example of configuration of the control system of the liquid supply device of an apparatus according to the invention;

- Figure 10 schematically illustrates in the form of a graph yet another example of configuration of the control system of the liquid supply device of an apparatus according to the invention;

- Figure 11 schematically illustrates in the form of a graph yet another example of configuration of the control system of the liquid supply device of an apparatus according to the invention.

BEST WAY TO REALIZE THE INVENTION

[0016] The invention relates, firstly, to a steam hairdressing appliance 1, that is to say a hairdressing appliance comprising means for emitting steam, for subjecting the hair to a flow of steam in in the context, in particular, of a styling operation for said hair. The hairdressing appliance 1 in accordance with the invention is preferably portable, that is to say that at least part, and preferably all, of the appliance 1 is designed to be gripped and manipulated by hand. hand. The hairdressing appliance 1 is preferably a portable electric appliance, intended to be connected to the electricity distribution network in order to be electrically supplied. It is however alternatively conceivable, without departing from the scope of the invention, that the device 1 embeds electrical supply batteries, possibly rechargeable. The hairdressing appliance 1 is preferably designed for use in a domestic setting, and is intended to ensure hair shaping, and/or hair embellishment and/or hair health improvement. Preferably, the hairdressing device 1 is designed so that the user uses the hairdressing device 1 on himself, that is to say on his own hair. However, it is perfectly possible for the hairdressing appliance 1 to be designed for use by the user on the hair of a third person (or other user). Preferably, the hairdressing appliance 1 is intended for use in a domestic setting by a user (woman or man) lacking particular professional skills in hairdressing. In the embodiment illustrated in the figures, the hairdressing appliance 1 constitutes a hairdressing brush. The invention is however not limited to a hairdressing appliance 1 forming a hairdressing brush, and the hairdressing appliance 1 can for example constitute a smoothing brush, a detangling brush or a straightener, without however out of the scope of the invention.

[0017] As illustrated in the figures, the hairdressing device 1 advantageously comprises a handle 2 for manual gripping, which is intended to be gripped by hand, and for example grabbed, by the user, to manipulate the hairdressing device. 1. The handle 2 extends for example longitudinally, along a central longitudinal axis X-X', between a first end from which emerges for example an electric power cable, and an opposite second end. The hairdressing appliance 1 advantageously comprises a head 3 to engage the hair, that is to say to preferably come into contact with the hair in order to subject it to a mechanical, thermal and/or fluidic action. The head 3 is advantageously carried by said handle 2, and extends for example longitudinally, along said central axis X-X', between a rear end fixed to the second end of the handle 2, and a free front end. Preferably, as illustrated in the figures, the handle 2 has a substantially elongated shape which is extended by the head 3, which is advantageously wider than the handle 2 and has for example a substantially oblong general shape. Preferably and as illustrated, the handle 2 and the head 3 are formed, at least in part, by a main body in one piece, of the box type, for example made of plastic material. The head 3 advantageously has a front face 3A which, as in the embodiment illustrated in the figures, is preferably provided with brushing pins 7 between and against which the hair is intended to find itself and to move, during use. of the hairdressing device 1 .

[0018] The hairdressing appliance 1 comprises means for emitting steam, which are configured to subject the hair to a flow of steam. More specifically, the hairdressing appliance 1 comprises, included in said steam emission means:

- a liquid vaporization device 5 for generating, from a liquid, a flow of vapor intended to be directed towards and on the hair of the user, - a supply device 6 for supplying liquid to the vaporization device 5, and

- a control system 8 configured to control at least the operation of the liquid supply device 6, and preferably also the operation of the vaporization device 5.

[0019] Preferably, the liquid in question is water. The term "water" can designate any liquid containing mainly water (that is to say at least 50% by weight of water, and preferably at least 80% by weight of water, even more preferably at least 95% by weight of water) and capable of being transformed into steam, and thus includes distilled water, running tap water, but also various aqueous solutions containing cosmetic, olfactory elements , etc.

[0020] The term “steam” must here be taken in an extensive sense and thus denotes either:

- a substance (preferably water) in gaseous state, or

- said substance (preferably water) in a liquid state in the form of a mist of droplets and/or microdroplets, or

- a mixture of said substance (preferably water) in the gaseous state and of said substance (preferably water) in the liquid state in the form of a mist of droplets and/or microdroplets .

[0021] In other words, the expression "water vapour" should not be limited to its strictly scientific definition and here covers water in the gaseous state, the particles of liquid water in suspension in the air, or a mixture of gaseous water and liquid water particles (droplets / microdroplets) suspended in the air.

The vaporization device 5 advantageously comprises a vaporization chamber 50 provided with an inlet 501 for supplying liquid and at least one outlet 502 for steam. Preferably and as illustrated, the vaporization device 5 also comprises a (first) heating device 51 designed to heat the vaporization chamber 50 and thus transform, within the vaporization chamber 50, the liquid into vapor. Advantageously connected to the system of control 8 in order to be controlled by the latter, the first heating device 51 is formed for example by one or more resistive elements capable of heating by Joule effect (for example one or more heating elements, or thermistor(s), at " Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC)), said resistive elements being advantageously arranged in contact with the vaporization chamber 50. Said vapor outlet 502 is for its part advantageously in fluidic communication, preferably permanent, with the surrounding outside air, preferably via at least one vapor ejection orifice 710, arranged on the side of the front face 3A, as will be described in more detail below. For example, said vapor ejection orifice(s) 710 is (are) in fluid communication with the interior of vaporization chamber 50 via a conduit device 52 connected on one side to the steam outlet 502 and on the other to said at least one steam ejection orifice 710.

In the preferred embodiment illustrated in the figures, the vaporization chamber 50 is advantageously maintained permanently at atmospheric pressure, as envisaged above, which in particular avoids having to resort to a valve at the outlet, due to the absence of vapor pressure rise within the vaporization chamber 50 and the apparatus 1. Among the advantages of such a design, one can note in particular the absence of risk of overpressure (and therefore the absence of the need for means to prevent or manage such overpressures), as well as a lower risk of ejecting a stream of steam at too high a temperature likely to damage and / or burn the hair or scalp. Indeed, due to the absence of pressurization of the vaporization chamber 50, the temperature of the steam flow advantageously does not exceed 100°C. In addition, the speed of the flow of steam and the distance traveled by the latter outside the device 1 are limited due to the absence of overpressure, which contributes to limiting the risk of burning the scalp, and therefore to a greater safety for the user.

Said liquid supply device 6 preferably comprises a reservoir 60 for storing a quantity of liquid (preferably liquid water), and a pump 61 connected to said reservoir 60 and to said vaporization device 5 , for example via a pipe connected to the supply inlet 501 of the chamber of vaporization 50. The control system 8 is advantageously configured to control an output flow (and in particular a mass flow) of said pump 61, typically by controlling a speed of rotation of a motor driving the pump 61 . Advantageously on board, the reservoir 60 is for example removable, that is to say it is detachable from the main body of the device 1 for the purpose of filling it, which in particular makes it possible to dispense with an earth connection. for powering the device 1. To this end, the tank 60 is preferably substantially at atmospheric pressure. The use of a pump 61 associated with a reservoir 60 at atmospheric pressure, rather than a pressurized reservoir associated with a valve, also allows optimum safety of use and increased reliability in terms of controlling the flow rate. Preferably, said pump 61 is a peristaltic pump, which allows very fine control of low flow rates and guarantees relatively constant flow rates if necessary. Alternatively, a diaphragm pump or any other suitable type could be envisaged, although a peristaltic pump remains preferred. Preferably, as in the embodiment illustrated in the figures, the device 1 has no device for heating the reservoir 60, so that the liquid contained in the latter remains substantially at ambient temperature when the device is in use.

Advantageously, as in the embodiment illustrated in the figures, the hairdressing device 1 comprises at least one heating element 4 intended to come into contact with the hair, to transmit heat thereto. The means for emitting steam are then advantageously configured to subject said hair to said flow of steam in contact with said heating element 4. In other words, hairdressing appliance 1 is preferably designed so that hair can be simultaneously contact at least locally with said heating element 4, and subjected at least locally to a flow of steam, during the styling operation, during which the head 3 engages the hair, for example to brush it, preferably by means of the brushing pins 7 mentioned above.

In this way, the device 1 is therefore preferably designed to subject the hair engaged by the head 3 to a thermo-mechanical steam treatment, according to which the hair is simultaneously subjected to: - A mechanical action, due to the brushing effected by the displacement of the front face 3A, from which brushing pins 7 preferably protrude, on and against the hair;

- a thermal action, by contact and/or proximity with the heating element 4, which is advantageously carried by the head 3;

- and a fluidic action, which is in this case a steam treatment, consisting in subjecting to steam (and preferably steam) the hair engaged by the head 3 and in contact with and / or close to the heating element 4, advantageously via the orifice(s) 710 for steam ejection/steam pins 71 which will be described below.

[0027] The simultaneous and advantageously combined implementation of these three treatments (mechanical, thermal and steam) advantageously makes it possible to beautify, and/or treat, and/or repair the hair, and advantageously also allows the shaping the hair, in particular by disciplining it.

[0028] For example arranged inside the handle 2 of the hairdressing device 1, the control system 8 advantageously comprises an electronic circuit which typically includes in particular a printed circuit and one or more microcontrollers, and which is electrically connected to the at least to the supply device 6, and in particular to the pump 61 of the latter, in order to control its operation and therefore to control a (mass) flow rate of liquid supply to the vaporization chamber 50 of the vaporization device 5. Preferably, the control system 8 is also electrically connected to the vaporization device 5, and in particular to said first heating device 51 of the latter, in order to control its operation and therefore to control the temperature of the chamber. 50 of the vaporization device 5. In the case where the appliance 1 advantageously comprises a heating element 4 intended to come into contact with the hair to transmit heat to it, as envisaged above, the control system 8 can be advantageously configured to additionally control (directly or indirectly) the operation, or at the very least the thermal state, of the heating element 4. In this case, the control system 8 can then be advantageously electrically connected to a second device heater 40, designed and arranged to heat said heating element 4, in order to control its state thermal and in particular to control a (first) surface temperature (i.e. surface temperature). Alternatively, the operation of the heating element 4 could be controlled, for the same purposes, by a system other than said control system 8. The second heating device 40 can be formed, for example, by one or more resistive elements capable of heating by Joule effect (for example one or more heating elements, or thermistor(s), with a "Positive Temperature Coefficient" (PTC)). Preferably, as in the embodiment illustrated in the figures, the second heating device 40 of the heating element 4 is separate from said first heating device 51 of the vaporization chamber 50.

[0029] The control system 8 is configured to implement an operational operating mode (or "regime") EN of the hairdressing appliance 1, that is to say a normal, nominal operating mode, in which the appliance 1 can be used normally for styling, brushing, detangling and/or straightening hair using a stream of steam. The operational operating mode EN can advantageously correspond to a stationary or quasi-stationary mode (or “cruising” mode) of operation of the hairdressing device 1 . According to the invention, the control system 8 is more specifically configured so that, in said operational operating mode EN, the supply device 6 supplies liquid to the vaporization device 5 according to a first supply mass flow rate DN (“normal mass flow” or “operational mass flow”, which is therefore non-zero). Advantageously, the control system 8 is configured as such to control the operation of the pump 61 of the supply device 6 so that said pump 61 draws liquid from reservoir 60 and delivers it, according to said first mass flow rate of supply DN, to the vaporization device 5, and in particular to the vaporization chamber 50 of the latter. In the operational operating mode EN, the vaporization device 5 is advantageously at a temperature allowing the vaporization of the liquid (that is to say at a temperature whose value is at least equal to the vaporization temperature (T _vap ) of the liquid under consideration), which is preferably substantially constant and whose (predefined) value is preferably between 100°C and 180°C, more preferably between 105°C and 150°C and for example substantially equal to 130 ° C, so that the liquid thus supplied to the vaporization device 5 by the supply device 6 is vaporized within the vaporization chamber 50 so as to form the vapor flow, or "vapor flow". operational”, intended to be directed towards and on the hair of the user. As such, the control system 8 is advantageously designed to control the first heating device 51 and bring the vaporization device 5, and in particular the vaporization chamber 50 of the latter, to a temperature whose value is at least equal at the vaporization temperature of the liquid in question, and preferably comprised within the aforementioned ranges of temperature values or equal to the aforementioned temperature value, in said operational operating mode EN.

[0030] The control system 8 is also configured to implement a transient (or "temporary") operating mode (or "regime") AND prior to said operational operating mode EN, which advantageously corresponds to a temporary regime, non-operational, of the hairdressing device 1 . The hairdressing appliance 1 is therefore designed to be in said transient operating mode ET, during which the appliance 1 is not normally intended to be used to treat hair, then in the operational operating mode EN, in which the device 1 is then fully usable for styling hair. In other words, unlike the operational operating mode EN, the transient operating mode ET is limited in time independently of the use of the hairdressing appliance 1 . Thus, when the hairdressing appliance 1 is started up, which corresponds for example to an electrical supply of the latter (preferably controlled by a switch), the appliance 1 is first of all in the mode of ET transient operation (which begins at time to in the examples of FIGS. 6 to 11). The transient operating mode ET is then followed by the operational operating mode EN (which begins at the instant ts in the examples of FIGS. 6 to 11), in which the device 1 advantageously remains until it is example switched off (end of power supply) by the user. In accordance with the invention, the control system 8 is more specifically configured so that, in said transient operating mode ET, the supply device 6 supplies liquid to the vaporization device 5 according to a second supply mass flow rate DT which is greater (strictly) than said first supply mass flow rate DN (that is to say according to a non-zero value of the second supply mass flow rate DT which is (strictly) greater than a respective non-zero value of the first flow rate feed mass DN). Thus, while the first supply mass flow rate DN advantageously corresponds to a normal liquid supply mass flow rate of the vaporization device 5, said second supply mass flow rate DT for its part advantageously corresponds to a mass flow rate of "supercharging" in liquid of said vaporization device 5. Advantageously, the control system 8 is configured in this respect to control the operation of the pump 61 of the supply device 6 so that said pump 61 takes liquid from the reservoir 60 and delivers it, according to said second supply mass flow rate DT, towards the vaporization device 5, and in particular towards the chamber vaporization 50 of the latter. In the transient operating mode ET, the vaporization device 5 is advantageously at a temperature allowing the vaporization of the liquid (that is to say at a temperature whose value is at least equal to the vaporization temperature (T _vap ) of the liquid under consideration), which is preferably substantially constant and whose (predefined) value is preferably between 100°C and 180°C, more preferably between 105°C and 150°C and for example substantially equal to 130 ° C, so that the liquid thus supplied to the vaporization device 5 by the supply device 6 is vaporized within the vaporization chamber 50. Such temperature ranges and values are particularly well suited when the liquid is essentially water, for use of the device 1 at ambient temperature and at an altitude close to sea level. Constant or not, the temperature of the vaporization device 5 must be maintained greater than or equal to 100°C during the mode operating mode EN mentioned above but also during the transient operating mode ET, including in the event of a sudden liquid supply. However, the temperature of the vaporization device 5 must not be too high in order to avoid the appearance of a phenomenon of heating, which can prove to be detrimental to the proper functioning of the vaporization device 5. A temperature of a value of 130° C., or at the very least advantageously between 105° C. and 150° C., thus presents a good compromise. As such, the control system 8 is advantageously designed to control the first heating device 51 and bring the vaporization device 5, and in particular the vaporization chamber 50 of the latter, to a temperature whose value is at least equal at the vaporization temperature of the liquid in question, and preferably comprised within the aforementioned ranges of temperature values or equal to the aforementioned temperature value, in the transient operating mode ET.

[0031] The ability of the hairdressing appliance 1 to implement such a transient operating mode ET, during which the vaporization device 5 is temporarily supercharged with liquid, makes it possible in particular to quickly and efficiently initiate the generation of steam, so that the device 1 is then in optimum conditions for generating the flow of steam (“flow of operational steam”) intended to be directed towards and on the hair of the user, when the device 1 is in operational operating mode EN. In this sense, said transient operating mode ET can thus advantageously correspond to a so-called "forced initiation" regime of the generation of steam by the vaporization device 5. This also makes it possible to replace all or part of the air, present in the various elements of liquid supply piping and/or steam guide of the device 1, by liquid and/or steam and thus to accelerate here again the provision of the device to hairstyle 1 for the user. In addition, such a temporary oversupply of liquid to the vaporization device 5 can advantageously lead, during the transient operating mode ET, to a particularly imperfect vaporization of the liquid resulting in the formation of vapor more heavily charged with droplets and/or microdroplets of liquid. than is the steam subsequently generated during the EN operational mode of operation. Insofar as said at least one vapor outlet 502 from vaporization chamber 50 of vaporization device 5 is advantageously in permanent fluid communication with the surrounding outside air via said at least one vapor ejection orifice 710 , as previously envisaged, this advantageously results in the ejection out of the device 1, during the transient operating mode AND, of a flow of vapor (“transient vapor flow” or “initial vapor flow”) which is more visible to the naked eye by the user than is the stream of steam (“operational steam stream”) which is then ejected during the operational operating mode EN. Typically, the fluid being water, the transient vapor flow can thus be emitted in the form of a whitish cloud or mist, while the operational vapor flow, less loaded with droplets and/or microdroplets d Liquid water is emitted in a more transparent form, more difficult to detect with the naked eye. This phenomenon then advantageously contributes to visually informing the user of the fact that the steam generation function of the appliance 1 is indeed functional.

Still insofar as said at least one vapor outlet 502 from the vaporization chamber 50 of the vaporization device 5 is advantageously in permanent fluid communication with the surrounding outside air, it follows by other than the transient steam flow can advantageously be ejected from the device 1 during the transient operating mode ET, preferably via said at least one steam ejection orifice 710, according to a second mass flow rate of steam (“transient steam mass flow rate” or “initial steam mass flow rate”) which is greater than a first steam mass flow rate (or “operational steam mass flow rate”) according to which the operational steam flow can be advantageously ejected out of device 1 during EN operational mode. In other words, the implementation of the transient operating mode ET can advantageously result in a burst of a large steam jet (or “burst”). The emission of such an initial jet of steam also advantageously contributes to informing the user of the fact that the steam generation function of the device 1 is indeed functional. What is more, the emission of such an initial jet of steam can advantageously contribute to freeing, if necessary, said at least one steam ejection orifice 710 from any small foreign bodies likely to obstruct or damage it. cover at least partially (dust, hair debris, dander, dry hairspray or styling gel residue, etc.).

Thus, the device 1 is, at the end of the transient operating mode ET, in optimal operational conditions for generating steam for optimal use of the device 1 in operational operating mode EN for styling, brushing, detangling and/or straightening the hair using steam.

Preferably, the control system 8 is configured to automatically control a transition from the transient (or “temporary”) operating mode ET to the operational operating mode EN. The transition from the transient operating mode ET to the operational operating mode EN therefore preferably takes place automatically, without positive intervention by the user. This makes it possible to ensure optimum operation of the hairdressing appliance 1 without having to request any intervention from the user. The latter can however be warned of reaching the operational operating mode EN by any suitable signaling means, and for example by the cessation of said temporary flow of vapor emitted in the form of a cloud or a whitish mist. Preferably, the values that the first and second supply rates DN, DT are respectively likely to affect are fixed (by the designers of the device 1), that is to say that they are preferably not modifiable by the user. As such, the hairdressing device 1 therefore advantageously lacks adjustment means enabling the user to set or adjust one and/or the other of said values of said first and second supply rates DN, DT.

[0035] Advantageously, the control system 8 is configured so that, during the operational operating mode EN, the average value of the first supply mass flow rate DN is at least equal to 0.5 g/min, preferably between 0.5 g / min (grams per minute) and 3 g / min, more preferably between 0.5 g / min and 1.1 g / min, and for example substantially equal to 0.8 g / min. Thus, the steam flow (operational steam flow) emitted by the steam emission means of the hairdressing appliance 1 when the latter is in operational operating mode EN can advantageously have a first mass flow of steam (flow operational mass of steam) of an average value symmetrically at least equal to 0.5 g / min, preferably between 0.5 g / min and 3 g / min, more preferably between 0.5 g / min and 1.1 g/min, and for example substantially equal to 0.8 g/min. Such average steam mass flow values are indeed well suited for effective styling, brushing, detangling and/or straightening hair with steam. In addition, such average values of first feed mass flow rate DN allow excellent autonomy of the device 1 in liquid, so that it is not necessary to implement a reservoir 60 of high capacity and therefore bulky. or to fill the tank 60 during the same session of use of the device 1 . The comfort of use is therefore improved.

[0036]According to a variant, illustrated for examples in FIGS. 6 and 8 to 11, in the operational operating mode EN, the mean value of the first feed mass flow rate DN is constant, unique. In other words, the control system 8 is therefore configured in such a way that the mean value of said first supply mass flow rate DN, predefined and unique, is maintained substantially constant (and not zero), fixed, throughout the duration during which the control system 8 controls an effective operation of the power supply device 6 during the operational operating mode EN. According to an alternative variant, illustrated for example in FIG. 7, in the operational operating mode EN, the average value of the first supply mass flow rate DN is on the contrary variable, that is to say that it varies, fluctuates, during the time during which the control system 8 controls effective operation of the supply device 6. For example, the average value of the first supply mass flow rate DN can alternately affect a minimum value DNI OR a maximum value DN2, and preferably cyclically, periodically, according to sequences of predefined durations, and for example according to a predefined sinusoidal or slotted pattern.

According to a variant, illustrated for examples in FIGS. 7 to 11 and compatible with a value of the first supply mass flow rate DN which is constant (FIG. 8 to 11) or on the contrary variable (FIG. 7), the control system 8 is configured to control, in said operational operating mode EN, a supply of liquid to the vaporization device 5 by the supply device 6 continuously over time. According to this variant, the vaporization device 5 is therefore supplied continuously, without interruption, with liquid as long as the device 1 is in the operational operating mode EN. As such, the control system 8 therefore advantageously controls continuous operation of the pump 61 of the supply device during said operational mode EN.

According to an alternative variant, illustrated for example in FIG. 6 and also compatible with a value of the first supply mass flow rate DN which is constant or on the contrary variable, the control system 8 is configured to control, in said operational operating mode EN, a supply of liquid to the vaporization device 5 by the supply device 6 discontinuously over time, and advantageously cyclically, sequentially. In other words, according to this variant, the supply device 5 is therefore controlled by the control system 8 so as to supply the vaporization device 5 intermittently, preferably according to a cyclic, sequential diagram, and for example according to a periodic slotted pattern. Thus, the operational operating mode EN can therefore advantageously correspond to an alternation

- supply periods of the vaporization device 5 for a first predetermined duration, either always according to a (same) constant average value (and not zero), unique, of first mass flow rate of supply DN, or alternatively according to a minimum value DNI OR a maximum value DN2 of the first supply mass flow rate DN, - And period of absence of supply of said vaporization device 5 for a second predetermined duration (zero value of the first mass flow rate of supply DN).

[0039] The choice between a constant mean value and a variable mean value of the first supply mass flow rate DN, as well as the choice between a continuous or discontinuous liquid supply to the vaporization device 5, may depend on several parameters, and in particular :

- the average value of the first mass feed rate DN with regard to the volume and/or the temperature of the vaporization chamber 50 (and therefore its capacity to vaporize a greater or lesser quantity of liquid in a given time) ;

- the design and the intrinsic operating characteristics of the supply device 6, and in particular of the pump 61 of the latter: typically, a choice of a continuous supply according to an average value of the first supply mass flow rate DN which is constant (FIGS. 8 to 11) is particularly well suited when the pump 61 is a peristaltic pump;

- as well as any effects of variation that one wishes to confer on the flow of steam intended to be directed towards and on the hair: flow of steam ejected according to an average value of constant or variable mass flow of steam, flow of steam ejected continuously or discontinuously.

[0040] Typically, the control of the aforementioned mass supply flow rates DT, DN, DNI, DN2 by the control system 8 can be carried out by means of one or more programmed control laws, stored, for example in a or several microprocessors that the control system 8 may comprise as mentioned above.

In order to further optimize the aforementioned effect of "forced initiation" of the generation of steam by the vaporization device 5, as well as advantageously the effect of generating an initial jet of steam in the form of a vapor cloud particularly detectable visually by the user, the mean value of the second supply mass flow rate DT is preferably between 120% and 1000% of the value respective average of the first feed mass flow DN. Also preferably, the average value of the second feed mass flow rate DT is between 150% and 300%, and for example equal to 150%, of the respective average value of the first feed mass flow rate DN. This makes it possible in particular on the one hand to limit the risk of ejection by the device 1 of hot drops of liquid, and therefore dangerous for the user, under the effect of too insufficient vaporization of said liquid and, on the other hand, to make the operation of the liquid supply device 6 more reliable, in particular by limiting the risk of scaling of the vaporization chamber 50. Preferably, the average value of the second supply mass flow rate DT is between 0.6 g/min and 5 g/min, preferably between 1 g/min and 2.5 g/min, and for example substantially equal to 1.2 g/min. This is particularly advantageous when the mean value of the first feed mass flow rate DN is between 0.5 g/min and 3 g/min, preferably between 0.5 g/min and 1.1 g/min, and for example equal to 0.8 g/min.

[0042] Preferably, as illustrated for examples in FIGS. 6 to 11, in the transient operating mode ET, the mean value of the second supply mass flow rate DT is constant, unique. In other words, the control system 8 is therefore configured in such a way that the average value of said second predefined and unique feed mass flow rate DT is maintained substantially constant (and not zero), fixed, throughout the duration during which the control system 8 controls effective operation of the power supply device 6 during the transient operating mode ET. Preferably, the control system 8 is configured to control, in the transient operating mode ET, a supply of liquid to the vaporization device 5 by the supply device 6 continuously over time. According to this preferred variant, when the control system 8 controls the supply of the vaporization device 5 during the transient operating mode ET, the supply of liquid according to said second supply mass flow rate DT is then done all at once. , all at once, and not in a split, sequential way. The two aforementioned preferential additional characteristics, each taken independently or preferably in combination, contribute in particular to simplifying the implementation of the transient operating mode ET and to optimizing the aforementioned effect of "forced initiation" of the generation of steam by the vaporization device 5, as well as advantageously the effect generating an initial jet of vapor in the form of a cloud which is particularly visually detectable by the user.

Whether the average value of the second supply mass flow rate Dy is chosen to be constant or variable, and whether the liquid supply to the vaporization device 5 is set to be continuous or discontinuous over time, it does not none the less preferable that the effective supply duration(s) of the vaporization device 5 according to the second supply mass flow rate DT be (are) chosen sufficiently short with regard to the value of the second mass flow rate of DT power supply and the volume and/or the temperature of the vaporization chamber 50 (and therefore its ability to vaporize a greater or lesser quantity of liquid in a given time) to avoid saturation of the vaporization chamber 50 which could lead to the emission of a jet of hot drops of liquid during the transient operating mode ET. As such, it is preferable that the control system 8 be configured so that, in said transient operating mode ET, the vaporization device 5 is supplied with liquid during a transient supply duration dT of a value between 1 s and 120 s, preferably between 10 s and 30 s, and for example equal to 15 s. This is particularly advantageous when the liquid supply to the vaporization device 5 is carried out continuously over time, according to an average value of the second supply mass flow rate DT which is constant and preferably between 0.6 g/min and 5 g/min, more preferably between 1 g/min and 2.5 g/min. Such a configuration is in fact particularly well suited for a vaporization chamber 50 of conventional dimensions fitted to a portable electric steam hairdressing appliance of the hairdressing brush, straightening brush, detangling brush or straightener type.

Advantageously, the control system 8 is configured to implement, during said transient operating mode AND:

- a main sub-mode (or "sub-speed") ET _P , in which the supply device 6 supplies liquid to the vaporization device 5 according to said second supply mass flow rate DT in accordance with what has been described above , And - a sub-mode (or "sub-regime") of preheating ETC, prior to said main sub-mode ET _P , during which the vaporization device 5 is gradually brought to a predefined temperature allowing the vaporization of the liquid, the value of which is preferably between 100°C and 180°C, more preferably between 105°C and 150°C, and for example substantially equal to 130°C.

During said ETC preheating sub-mode, the vaporization device 5 is therefore advantageously not supplied with liquid. As envisaged above, the control system 8 is advantageously connected to the first heating device 51 of the vaporization device 5 in order to control a gradual rise in the temperature of the latter, and in particular of the vaporization chamber 50, up to upon reaching a sufficient predefined temperature value (typically greater than or equal to 100° C. in the case of water, and preferably comprised within the aforementioned preferential ranges - or equal to the value -) to cause vaporization immediate liquid when the latter will then be introduced into the vaporization chamber 50 during the main sub-mode ET _P . Optionally, the value of the preheating preheating temperature of the vaporization device 5 could be chosen to be higher than the operating temperature of the vaporization device 5 during the operational operating mode EN, so as to promote a more intense, more brutal vaporization of the liquid during the main sub-mode ET _P and/or so as to take into account a possible cooling phenomenon of the vaporization device 5 under the effect of the liquid supply during the main sub-mode ET _P . Alternatively, and although in a less preferential way in particular in terms of the ease of design and the operating reliability of the device 1, it is possible that such a vaporization temperature setting of the vaporization device 5 is not controlled by the control system 8, but for example by another separate system, and that the control system 8 is not configured to implement such an ETC preheating sub-mode

The control system 8 is more preferably configured to automatically control a passage from said preheating sub-mode ETC to said main sub-mode ET _P according to at least one of the following criteria: once the value of the preset temperature is reached and/or at the expiration of a time of predefined preheating, and more preferably again once said value of the predefined temperature is reached. The passage from the preheating sub-mode ETC to the main sub-mode ET _P therefore preferably takes place automatically, without positive intervention by the user. This guarantees that the functional device 1 is made available without the user having to deal with it. The apparatus 1 can thus comprise, for example, a temperature probe which is arranged in contact with the vaporization chamber 50 of the vaporization device 5, and which is connected to the control system 8 in order to transmit to the latter information as to at the temperature of the vaporization chamber 50, and to maintain an electrical supply to the first heating device 51 as long as the value of the predefined temperature has not been reached. Alternatively or additionally, the control system 8 can comprise, for example, an internal clock to control maintenance of an electrical supply to the first heating device 51 at least until the expiry of said preheating time. The value of the predefined preheating time may possibly depend on certain technical characteristics of the device 1 (electrical power, dimensioning of the vaporization device 5, for example), and is obviously chosen sufficient to allow the achievement of the value of the preset temperature. Typically, the value of the preheating time, predefined or not, is advantageously between 10 s and 60 s, and for example 45 s, without this range and this value being of course limiting.

[0047] Optionally, as illustrated in examples in Figures 6 and 9 to 11, the control system 8 can be configured:

- to implement, during said transient operating mode ET and at the end of said main sub-mode ET _P , a time-delay sub-mode (or "sub-regime") E™ during which the liquid supply of the device of vaporization 5 is interrupted,

- then to automatically control the transition from the time delay sub-mode E™ (and therefore from the transient operating mode ET) to the operational operating mode EN, and therefore thus automatically controlling the supply of liquid to the vaporization device 5 according to said first mass flow DN (variable or not, continuous or discontinuous). In other words, the transient operating mode ET then advantageously ends with the implementation of a particular operating sub-mode during which the vaporization device 5 is not supplied with liquid by the supply device 6 (zero value of the second supply mass flow rate DT). The implementation of such a time delay sub-mode Eît may prove to be advantageous, depending in particular on the choice of the average value of the second supply mass flow rate DT and the sizing of the vaporization device 5, in order to allow this last to finish vaporizing the liquid and/or evacuating the vapor at the end of the main sub-mode AND if necessary, and thus to avoid saturation of the vaporization chamber 50 which could degrade its performance, or even the emission of a jet of hot drops of liquid at the moment of engagement of the operational operating mode EN. In addition, insofar as the “overfeeding” (second mass flow rate DT of supply) can lead to a drop in the temperature of the vaporization device 5, the implementation of such a time delay sub-mode E can advantageously make it possible to leave the time necessary for the vaporization device 5 so that its temperature is gradually brought back to said predefined temperature value (or to another predefined temperature target value, on the assumption that the predefined temperature value of the vaporizing device 5 during the operational operating mode EN differs from the preset temperature value to be reached during the preheating sub-mode ETC).

According to a principle similar to that described above with regard to the ETC preheating sub-mode, the control system 8 can thus be advantageously configured to automatically control the transition from the transient (or "temporary") operating mode. AND to the operational operating mode EN as a function of at least one of the following criteria: once a predefined target value for the temperature of the vaporization device 5 has been reached (use of a temperature probe, for example) and / or at the end of a predefined pause time (use of an internal clock, for example).

[0050] Below will be detailed, in connection with the graphs of Figures 6 to 11, some examples of configuration of the control system 8 of a device 1 according to the invention. Example 1: In the example of Figure 6, the control system s is configured so that once the device 1 is switched on (to), the latter is automatically successively:

- from to: in the ETC preheating sub-mode, to gradually bring the vaporization chamber 50 of the vaporization device 5 to a predefined temperature for the vaporization of the liquid, for example equal to 130° C., and this in a time of preheating of 45 s (ti = to + 45 s);

- from ti: in the main sub-mode ET _P , during which the vaporization chamber 50 is supplied with liquid water continuously according to an average value of the second supply mass flow rate DT of 2.4 g / min during a transient supply duration dî of 15 s (t2=ti+15 s=to+60 s);

- from t2: in the Eît time delay sub-mode, during which the vaporization chamber 50 is interrupted for 5 s (ts=t2 + 5 s = to + 65 s);

- then from ts: in the operational operating mode EN, during which the vaporization chamber 50 is supplied with liquid water in a discontinuous manner by cyclical alternation of supply periods for a first predetermined duration of 2 s, according to a value constant average of first feed mass flow rate DN of 1.6 g/min, and of periods of absence of feed for a second predetermined duration of 5 s. Throughout the duration of said operational operating mode EN, the vaporization chamber 50 is maintained at a predefined liquid vaporization temperature, for example equal to 130°C.

[0052] Example 2: In the example of Figure 7, the control system s is configured so that once the device 1 is switched on (to), the latter is automatically located successively:

- from to: in the ETC preheating sub-mode, to gradually bring the vaporization chamber 50 to a predefined liquid vaporization temperature, for example equal to 130° C., in a preheating time of 45 s;

- from ti: in the main ET _P sub-mode, during which the vaporization chamber 50 is supplied with liquid water continuously according to a value average second feed mass flow rate DT of 2.4 g/min for a transient feed time dI of 15 s;

- then, from ts: in the operational operating mode EN, during which the vaporization chamber 50 is supplied with liquid water continuously by cyclical alternation o of supply periods for a first predetermined duration of 5 s, according to a first feed mass flow rate constant DNI minimum mean value DN of 0.5 g/min, and feed periods for a second predetermined duration of 2 s, according to a first mass flow rate constant DNI minimum mean value d feed DN of 1 g/min, the vaporization chamber 50 being maintained at a predefined liquid vaporization temperature, for example equal to 130°C.

[00531 Example 3: In the example of figure s, the control system s is configured so that once device 1 is switched on (to), it is automatically successively:

- from ti: in the main sub-mode ET _P , during which the vaporization chamber 50 is supplied with liquid water continuously according to an average value of the second supply mass flow rate DT of 2.4 g / min during a transient power supply duration dT of 15 s;

- then, from ts: in the operational operating mode EN, during which the vaporization chamber 50 of the vaporization device 5 is supplied with liquid water continuously according to a constant mean value of the first mass flow rate of supply DN of 0.8 g/min, the vaporization chamber 50 being maintained at a predefined liquid vaporization temperature, for example equal to 130°C. Example 4: In the example of Figure 9, the control system s is configured so that once the device 1 is switched on (to), the latter is automatically successively:

- from ti: in the main sub-mode ET _P , during which the vaporization chamber 50 of the vaporization device 5 is supplied with liquid water continuously according to an average value of the second supply mass flow rate DT of 2, 4 g/min for a transient feed time dI of 15 s;

- from t2: in the time delay sub-mode Eît during which the supply of liquid to the vaporization device 5 is interrupted for 5 s;

- then, from ts: in the operational operating mode EN, during which the vaporization chamber 50 of the vaporization device 5 is supplied with liquid water continuously according to a constant mean value of the first mass flow rate of supply DN of 0.8 g/min, the vaporization chamber 50 being maintained at a predefined liquid vaporization temperature, for example equal to 130°C.

[00551 Example 5: In the example of Figure 10, the control system s is configured so in the same way as in the example of Figure 8, except that the constant average value of the first flow feed mass DN is here 1.2 g/min.

[00561 Example 6: In the example of Figure 11, the control system s is configured in the same way as in the examples of Figures 9 and 10 except that the constant average value of the second mass flow feed rate DT is here 1.2 g/min, and that the constant mean value of the first feed mass flow rate DN is 0.8 g/min. The different mass flow rates DT, DN, DNI, DN2 mentioned above can advantageously be determined by calculating the difference in mass of the tank 60 for a predetermined duration in transient operating mode ET, and respectively in operational operating mode EN. In other words, weighing and time measurement are advantageously used to determine the mass flow rates. The mass and the difference in mass of the tank 60 can be determined easily and with precision with current weighing instruments, and by carrying out several measurements, the results of which are for example averaged. In practice, the tank 60 filled with liquid (typically water) is weighed. The scale is then tared before removing the reservoir 60 from the scale pan. Then, after the test (device 1 operating in transient operating mode ET, respectively in operational operating mode EN for a predetermined time), the tank 60 - which now contains less water - is weighed again on the scale already tared . This therefore makes it possible to measure the difference in weight / mass before and after the test as a negative value. Of course, in this case, a scale adapted to differential weighing will be used, making it possible to measure a negative differential value, which is the case with most of the laboratory scales available. The use of differential weighing as described above, if it proves to be particularly simple and practical, is of course not the only possibility for determining the mass flow rate and methods implementing other types may be used. of sensor. It will be noted finally and moreover that for a liquid such as water, the density of which is known and constant, a measurement of the mass reflects a measurement of the volume. Therefore, a measurement of the mass of liquid water moved by a pump in a given time (mass per unit time) is also equivalent to a measurement of the flow rate (volume per unit time) of the pump. In the case where the transient operating mode ET includes one and/or the other of the preheating sub-mode ETC and time delay sub-mode E™ described above, it will be advantageous to endeavor to exclude from the measurements the periods of time corresponding to the implementation of these specific sub-modes, so as to retain only one measurement relating to the main sub-mode ET _P . In the case where the supply of liquid to the vaporization device 5 is configured to be carried out in a continuous discontinuous manner over time, it will be advantageous to endeavor to exclude from the measurements the periods of time corresponding substantially to an absence of supply. Preferably, in the operational operating mode EN, said heating element 4 intended to come into contact with the hair has a first surface temperature (that is to say a surface temperature) whose value is at least equal at 110°C. Preferably again, in the operational operating mode EN, said value of the first surface temperature of the heating element 4 is at least equal to 120°C, and is advantageously between 120°C and 200°C. Even more preferably, in the operational operating mode EN, the value of said first surface temperature is between 130° C. and 170° C., preferably between 140° C. and 160° C., for example substantially equal to 150° C. vs. In a particularly preferential manner, quite remarkable results in terms of embellishment of the hair, and more particularly in terms of reduction of defects and improvement of shine, can be obtained when, in the operational mode of operation EN, the value of said first surface temperature is equal to 150°C ± 20°C, preferably 150°C ± 10°C, in association with a first mass flow rate of vapor whose mean value is equal to 0.8 g/ min ±0.3 g/min, and therefore advantageously in association with a first feed mass flow rate DN whose mean value is symmetrically equal to 0.8 g/min ±0.3 g/min.

Advantageously, the control system 8 can also be configured to control, throughout the duration of the transient operating mode AND OR only during the preheating ETC sub-mode provided above, a gradual increase in the first surface temperature of the heating element 4, so that, when the appliance is then in the operational operating mode EN, the value of the first surface temperature of the said heating element 4 is at least equal to 110°C, and preferably within the ranges of preferred values mentioned above.

Advantageously, the brush pins 7 which protrude from the front face 3A of the head 3 include at least:

- heating pins 70 (FIGS. 1, 3, 4 and 5), which contribute to forming said heating element 4, that is to say that said heating element 4 advantageously includes said heating pins 70, and is preferably formed by said heating pins 70, and - steam pins 71 each incorporating a steam ejection orifice 710 connected to a source of steam, which is advantageously formed for example by the vaporization device 5 and the associated supply device 6 described in the foregoing.

Said steam pins 71 thus contribute to forming said steam emission means. To this end and as previously explained, each vapor ejection orifice 710 is advantageously in fluid communication with the interior of the vaporization chamber 50 via the channeling device 52. The steam pins 71 thus assume, in in addition to their mechanical brushing function, a steam sprayer function, that is to say that each steam pin 71, with its steam ejection orifice 710, advantageously forms a steam projection nozzle (preferably water vapour). Thus, thanks in particular to the steam pins 71, the mechanical treatment of the hair, under the effect of a resistive force generated by the hair against the steam pins 71 is advantageously combined with a fluidic treatment of the hair (supply of steam via the steam ejection orifice 710 of the steam pins 71). The term "combined" here means the simultaneous performance of said mechanical and fluidic treatments on the same area of hair. Thus the same portion of lock of hair will undergo simultaneously, that is to say concomitantly, both a fluidic treatment and a mechanical treatment. This makes it possible to obtain a "double" action combined and concentrated on the same area of hair. This makes it possible to increase the effectiveness of the treatment, and to obtain excellent results in terms of styling, beautifying and caring for the hair, while minimizing the number of necessary passages of the hairdressing device 1 against the hair.

In a particularly advantageous manner, the surface temperature of the heating pins 70 corresponds to the aforementioned first surface temperature of the heating element 4, the value of which in operational operating mode EN is advantageously at least equal to 110° C., while that the flow of steam (flow of operational steam), the value of the first mass flow of steam of which is advantageously at least equal to 0.5 g/min, escapes through the orifices 710 of the steam pins 71 . This embodiment is particularly advantageous because it makes it possible to apply a thermomechanical steam treatment to the hair in an optimal manner and particularly effective. The use of pins 70, 71 to heat and diffuse the steam, in addition to the brushing function that they provide naturally, in fact makes it possible to best diffuse the steam within the locks of hair while ensuring optimal heat exchange. .

Preferably, the steam pins 71 also play the role of heating pins, in addition to their steam diffusion function. In other words, the steam pins 71 then advantageously contribute to forming both the heating element 4 and the steam emission means. Thus, thanks to said steam pins 71, the mechanical treatment of the hair (under the effect of a resistive force generated by the hair against the steam pins 71) is, even more advantageously, combined not only with a fluidic treatment of hair (steam supply via the steam ejection orifice 710 of the steam pins 71 contributing to form the steam emission means as mentioned above, but also with a heat treatment of the hair (heat supply via the pins to vapor 71 contributing to form the heating element 4) Thus the same portion of lock of hair will undergo simultaneously, that is to say concomitantly, both a mechanical treatment, a fluidic treatment, and a heat treatment This makes it possible to obtain a "triple" action combined and concentrated on the same area of hair. even better in terms of styling, beautifying and caring for the hair, while further minimizing the number of necessary passages of the hairdressing appliance 1 against the hair.

Preferably, the steam pins 71 are integral with the heating pins 70, that is to say that in this case the steam pins 71 and the heating pins 70 are advantageously formed by one and the same piece. in one piece. For example, the steam pins 70 and heating pins 71 are formed by a first one-piece piece 700 which is made of metal, for example aluminum or cast aluminum, and which is advantageously obtained by molding and/or machining a metal primary block. Advantageously, the heating pins 70, as well as the steam pins 71, are anodized, to enable them to retain a smooth surface even when their temperature is high. Preferably, said first one-piece piece 700 of aluminum or cast aluminum which forms the heating pins 70, as well that the steam pins 71 are advantageously placed in contact with said second heating device 40, formed for example by resistive elements capable of heating by the Joule effect, said resistive elements being in contact with said one-piece part (from which the pins come heaters 70 and preferably the steam pins 71) to heat the latter at least by thermal conduction. Advantageously, each of said heating pins 70 and/or said steam pins 71 has, in cross-section, a substantially oblong shape. Thanks to this oblong shape, which gives the heating pins 70 a substantially flattened shape, in the shape of a paw, the heat exchange with the hair is optimized since the wider than long shape of the heating pins 70 gives a maximum exchange surface during the passage of the hair against the heating pins 70. As previously explained, the steam pins 71 also preferably play the role of heating pins, so that in this case it is preferable that they too have in cross section a shape substantially oblong, preferably substantially similar to that of the heating pins 70.

[0065] In any case, each steam pin 71 preferably has, as illustrated in particular in Figure 4, a substantially flattened shape with two opposite faces, separated by the thickness of the steam pin 71, said orifice 710 steam ejection opening on at least one of the two opposite faces, and preferably on said two faces, in which case the steam is projected on each side of the steam pin 71, which makes it possible to improve the diffusion of the steam within the hair strands. Thanks to this specific arrangement of the steam ejection orifice 710, which opens onto at least one of the faces of the steam pin 71, that is to say substantially perpendicular to the axis of longitudinal extension of the steam pin 71 in question, the steam leaves the steam pin 71 with an incidence which is substantially parallel to the mean plane of the front face 3A, which not only makes it possible to reduce the risk of burning the scalp during use , but also ensures a particularly effective projection of steam since it makes it possible to treat the locks of hair on their height. In order again to improve the diffusion of steam within the hair, with a view in particular to subjecting locks of hair to the flow of steam over their entire height, each steam ejection orifice 710 is preferably provided over at least half , and preferably over at least two-thirds, of the height of the steam bar 71 which incorporates it. [0066] Preferably and as illustrated in the figures, the head 3 of the hairdressing device 1, and in particular the front face 3A of said head 3, has a plane of symmetry, which is advantageously parallel to or coincides with, at the central longitudinal axis X-X'. Such an advantageously symmetrical construction makes it possible to obtain a hairdressing appliance 1 which can be used in any direction on the hair, thus forming an advantageously ambidextrous appliance 1, usable both by a user of the right hand or of the left hand. , but also on the left side or on the right side of the user's head while advantageously maintaining an identical relative movement/treatment gesture: typically from the root to the tip of the hair. Such a symmetrical arrangement also contributes to simplifying the industrial manufacture of the hairdressing device 1 . Advantageously, the brushing pins 7, of which the heating pins 70 and preferably the steam pins 71 form part, can be distributed over the front face 3A according to a distribution pattern which has a plane P of central symmetry. Even more advantageously, said plane P of central symmetry passes through said steam ejection orifices 710/steam pins 71 (FIG. 5). For example, as illustrated in the figures, the hairdressing device 1 can thus comprise at least, projecting from the front face 3A of the head 3:

- a central row of steam pins 71, that is to say pins allowing mechanical brushing of the hair (mechanical action), and also playing both a role of heating pins (thermal action) and a role of spikes that diffuse a stream of steam on and against the hair (fluidic action), and

- at least one, and preferably two, row(s) of heating pins 70, devoid of a steam ejection orifice 710, arranged on either side of said central row of steam pins 71, to further accentuate the thermal action and the mechanical action exerted against the hair.

According to this feature, the steam pins 71 are arranged substantially in the center of the front face 3A, which has various additional advantages. A first advantage lies in the safety of use: an emission of steam localized in the center of the front face 3A in fact makes it possible to limit the risk of burns. Another advantage lies in the fact that the steam can act more effectively on the hair because it can escape less easily than if it were emitted from the periphery of the head 3. [0068] Advantageously, the brushing pins 7 also include tensioning pins 72 and which allow, in cooperation with the other brushing pins (including the heating pins 70 and/or the steam pins 71), to stretch the hair engaged by the head 3 in order to press them laterally on and against the heating pins 70 and/or the steam pins 71, thus allowing a better heat exchange as well as a better supply of steam to the locks of hair concerned. Advantageously, each of the tensor pins 72 has substantially a shape of revolution, with for example a substantially frustoconical main body which rises between a base and a top, the latter optionally being advantageously provided with an enlarged and rounded head, substantially spheroidal. Such a geometry makes it possible to protect the scalp and to obtain an optimal detangling effect. Preferably, said tensor pins 72 are formed by the same second one-piece part 701, for example made of plastic material, and even more preferably of hard plastic, of the polyurethane or PPS (polyphenylene sulfide) type, advantageously polished, which has a surface particularly smooth while being resistant to high temperatures. The choice of a plastic material also makes it possible to benefit from lower thermal conduction properties than that of a metal such as aluminum or cast aluminum, which advantageously forms the first one-piece part 700 from which the heating pins 70 come. This allows the tensor pins 72 to also play the role of thermal insulation. To this end, said tensor pins 72 are preferably higher than said steam pins 71 and/or are higher than said heating pins 70, so that they make it possible to keep the heating pins 70 and the steam pins 71 at a distance. of the scalp, when using the hairdressing device 1 , thus limiting the risk of burns. Indeed, due in particular to the thermally insulating nature of the material of the tensor pins 72, the latter have, in the operational operating mode EN, a second surface temperature (that is to say a surface temperature) whose value is advantageously lower than that of said first surface temperature. Advantageously, the value of said second surface temperature is compatible with contact with the scalp, ie it is low enough not to cause burning and/or any discomfort.

Preferably, the first one-piece part 701 from which the tensor pins 72 originate and the one-piece part 700 from which the heating pins 70 originate (as well as preferably the steam pins 71) are superimposed, with the second part monobloc 701 forming the tensor pins 72 arranged on and against the first monobloc part 700 forming the heating pins 70, the latter protruding through openings provided through the second monobloc part 701 .

[0070] The invention also relates, as such, to a process for producing steam by a steam hairdressing appliance 1 comprising a liquid vaporization device 5 for generating, from a liquid (typically, water), a flow of steam intended to be directed towards and on the hair of a user and a supply device 6 for supplying liquid to the vaporization device 5. In accordance with the invention, said method comprises:

- a step of operational operation of the hairdressing device 1, during which the supply device 6 supplies liquid to the vaporization device 5 according to a first mass supply flow rate DN, and

- a transitional operating step of the hairdressing device 1, prior to said operational operating step, and during which the supply device 6 supplies liquid to the vaporization device 5 according to a second mass supply flow rate DT which is greater than said first feed mass flow rate DN.

Advantageously, the hairdressing device 1 concerned by the method of the invention is a hairdressing device 1 in accordance with the invention as described in detail in the foregoing. In other words, the method in accordance with the invention is advantageously implemented using a hairdressing appliance 1 in accordance with the invention. Consequently, the description of the hairdressing appliance 1 above applies mutadis mutandis to said method. As such, said operational operating step and said transient operating step respectively advantageously correspond to the operational operating mode EN and to the transient operating mode ET as the latter have been described above.

During the operational operating step EN, the vaporization device 5 is advantageously at a temperature allowing the vaporization of the liquid, which is preferably substantially constant and whose (predefined) value is preferably between 100° C. and 180°C, more preferably between 105°C and 150°C and for example substantially equal to 130°C. Respectively, during the transient operating step ET, the vaporization device 5 is advantageously at a temperature allowing vaporization of the liquid, which is preferably substantially constant and whose (predefined) value is preferably between 100° C. and 180° C. °C, more preferably between 105°C and 150°C and for example substantially equal to 130°C.

Advantageously, the transition from the transient operating stage to the operational operating stage is carried out automatically.

Preferably, and for the effects and advantages (spurt of a large jet of steam or "burst" in English) already described previously in connection with the hairdressing appliance 1 in accordance with the invention

- the hairdressing appliance 1 emits an operational steam flow according to a first mass flow of steam ("mass flow of operational steam") during the operational operating step, advantageously therefore under the effect of the liquid supply of the vaporization device 5 according to said first feed mass flow rate DN,

- the hairdressing appliance 1 previously emitting a transient steam flow ("initial steam flow") according to a second mass flow of steam ("transient mass flow of steam") during the transient operating step, advantageously therefore under the effect respectively of the liquid supply to the vaporization device 5 according to said second supply mass flow rate DT, said second vapor mass flow rate being greater than said first vapor mass flow rate.

Preferably, the average value of the first mass flow of steam is at least equal to 0.5 g/min, preferably between 0.5 g/min and 3 g/min, more preferably between 0, 5 g/min and 1.1 g/min, and for example equal to 0.8 g/min. Preferably, the mean value of the second mass flow rate of steam is between 120% and 1000%, and more preferably between 150% and 300%, of the respective mean value of the first mass flow rate of steam. Preferably, said mean value of the second vapor mass flow rate is comprised between 0.6 g/min and 5 g/min, preferably between 1 g/min and 2.5 g/min, and for example substantially equal to 1.2 g/min.

[0076] Particularly advantageously, the vapor from the transient vapor stream is more highly charged with droplets and/or microdroplets of liquid than is the vapor from the operational vapor stream.

Preferably, said transient operating step comprises:

- a main sub-step, in which the supply device 6 supplies liquid to the vaporization device 5 according to said second supply mass flow rate DT, and

- a preheating sub-step, prior to said main sub-step, during which the vaporization device 5 is gradually brought to a predefined temperature allowing the vaporization of the liquid, the value of which is preferably between 100°C and 180°C , more preferably between 105°C and 150°C, and for example substantially equal to 130°C.

Advantageously, said main sub-step and said preheating sub-step correspond respectively to the main sub-mode ET _P and to said pre-heating sub-mode ETC as the latter have been described above. Advantageously, the supply device 6 does not supply liquid to the vaporization device 5 during said preheating sub-step. Preferably, the passage from the preheating sub-step to the main sub-step is carried out automatically, according to at least one of the following criteria: once the value of the predefined temperature is reached and/or at the expiration of a pre-defined preheating time, and preferably again once said pre-defined temperature value is reached.

More preferably still, the step of transient operation of the hairdressing device 1 comprises, at the end of the main sub-step, a time-out sub-step in which the liquid supply to the device of vaporization 5 is interrupted, the passage from the sub-step of delay to the step of operational operation being advantageously carried out automatically. Advantageously, said time delay sub-step corresponds to the time delay sub-mode Eït as the latter was described above. Advantageously, the passage of the sub-step of The delay in the operational operation step is performed automatically depending on at least one of the following criteria: once a predefined target value of the temperature of the vaporization device 5 is reached and / or at the expiration of a predefined pause time.

[0080] A process for producing steam by a steam hairdressing appliance 1 may also constitute an invention as such, said process being characterized in that it comprises:

- a step of operational operation of the hairdressing appliance 1, during which the hairdressing appliance 1 emits an operational steam flow according to a first mass flow rate of steam, and

- a step of transient operation of the hairdressing device 1, prior to said operational step, and during which the hairdressing device 1 emits a transient flow of steam according to a second mass flow rate of steam which is greater than said first flow rate mass of steam.

Advantageously, said operational operating steps and transient operating step correspond to the operational operating steps and transient operating step described above.

POSSIBILITY OF INDUSTRIAL APPLICATION

The invention finds its industrial application in the design and manufacture of hairdressing appliances, for example for domestic use, intended to provide shaping, embellishment and/or improvement of the health of the hair, and more specifically electric portable hairdressing appliances such as hairdressing brushes, detangling brushes, smoothing brushes or hair straighteners.

Claims

38

CLAIMS Steam hairdressing device (1) comprising a liquid vaporization device (5) for generating, from a liquid, a flow of vapor intended to be directed towards and on the hair of a user, a device for supply (6) for supplying liquid to the vaporization device (5) and a control system (8) configured to control at least the operation of said supply device (6), the apparatus (1) being characterized in that that said control system (8) is configured to implement:

- an operational operating mode (EN), in which the supply device (6) supplies the vaporization device (5) with liquid according to a first non-zero supply mass flow rate (DN), and

- a transient operating mode (ET) prior to said operational operating mode (EN), in which the supply device (6) supplies the vaporization device (5) with liquid according to a second supply mass flow rate (DT) which is greater than said first feed mass flow rate (DN). Hairdressing appliance (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that, in the operational mode of operation (EN), the average value of the first mass supply flow rate (DN) is constant. Hairdressing appliance (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control system (8) is configured to control, in said operational mode of operation (EN), a supply of liquid to the vaporization device ( 5) continuously over time. Hairdressing appliance (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the mean value of the first mass feed flow rate (DN) is at least equal to 0.5 g/min, preferably between 0, 5 g/min and 3 g/min, more preferably between 0.5 g/min and 1.1 g/min, and for example equal to 0.8 g/min. 39 Hairdressing device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the average value of the second mass supply flow rate (DT) is between 120% and 1000%, and more preferably between 150 % and 300%, of the respective mean value of the first feed mass flow rate (DN). Hairdressing device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the mean value of the second mass supply flow rate (DT) is between 0.6 g/min and 5 g/min, preferably between between 1 g/min and 2.5 g/min, and for example substantially equal to 1.2 g/min. Hairdressing appliance (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, in the transient operating mode (ET), the mean value of the second mass flow rate (DT) of the supply is constant. Hairdressing appliance (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control system (8) is configured to control, in said transient operating mode (ET), a supply of liquid to the vaporization device ( 5) continuously over time. Hairdressing appliance (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control system (8) is configured so that, in the said transient operating mode (ET), the vaporization device (5) is supplied with liquid for a transient supply duration (di) of a value comprised between 1 s and 120 s, preferably comprised between 10 s and 30 s, and for example equal to 15 s. Hairdressing device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control system (8) is configured to automatically control a transition from the transient operating mode (ET) to the operational operating mode (EN). 40 Hairdressing appliance (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control system (8) is configured to implement, during said transient operating mode (ET):

- a main sub-mode (ET _P ), in which the supply device (6) supplies the vaporization device (5) with liquid according to said second supply mass flow rate (DT), and

- a preheating sub-mode (ETC), prior to said main sub-mode (ET _P ), during which the vaporization device (5) is gradually brought to a predefined temperature allowing the vaporization of the liquid, the value of which is preferably included between 100°C and 180°C, more preferably between 105°C and 150°C, and for example substantially equal to 130°C. Hairdressing appliance (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the control system (8) is configured to automatically control a passage from the preheating sub-mode (ETC) to the main sub-mode (ET _P ) as a function of at least one of the following criteria: once the predefined temperature value is reached and/or upon expiry of a predefined preheating time, and preferably once said predefined temperature value is reached . Hairdressing appliance (1) according to Claim 10 and any one of Claims 11 and 12, characterized in that the control system (8) is configured:

- to implement, during said ET transient operating mode and at the end of said main sub-mode (ET _P ), a time-out sub-mode (ETI) in which the liquid supply to the vaporization device (5) is interrupted,

- then to automatically control the passage from the time delay sub-mode (ETI) to the operational operating mode (EN). Hairdressing device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the supply device (6) comprises a reservoir (60) for storing a quantity of said liquid and a pump (61) connected to said reservoir (60 ) and to said vaporizing device (5), the control system (8) being configured to control an output flow rate of said pump (61). Hairdressing appliance (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that said pump (61) is a peristaltic pump. Hairdressing appliance (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the vaporization device (5) comprises a vaporization chamber (50) provided with an inlet (501) for supplying liquid and at least one steam outlet (502), said steam outlet (502) being in permanent fluid communication with the surrounding outside air, via at least one steam ejection orifice (710). Method for producing steam by a steam hairdressing appliance (1) comprising a liquid vaporization device (5) for generating, from a liquid, a stream of steam intended to be directed towards and on the hair of a user and a supply device (6) for supplying liquid to the vaporization device (5), said method being characterized in that it comprises:

- a step of operational operation of the hairdressing device (1), during which the supply device (6) supplies the vaporization device (5) with liquid according to a first mass supply flow rate (DN), and

- a transitional operating step of the hairdressing appliance (1), prior to said operational operating step, and during which the supply device (6) supplies the vaporization device (5) with liquid according to a second mass flow rate feed rate (DT) which is greater than said first feed mass flow rate (DN). Method according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the hairdressing device (1) emits a flow of operational steam according to a first mass flow rate of steam during the step of operational operation, the said hairdressing device (1) previously emitting a flow of transient steam at a second mass flow rate of steam during the step of transient operation, said second mass flow rate of steam being greater than said first mass flow rate of steam.