WO2023228137A1

WO2023228137A1 - Hair styling device

Info

Publication number: WO2023228137A1
Application number: PCT/IB2023/055405
Authority: WO
Inventors: Alfredo DEBENEDICTIS; Janusz Lucien Holland; Mark Christopher Hughes; Martin Malcolm HARRIS; James Robert NELSON
Original assignee: Japham Group Limited
Priority date: 2022-05-27
Filing date: 2023-05-26
Publication date: 2023-11-30
Also published as: GB202207891D0

Abstract

The invention relates to a hair styling device (110), and in particular to a device which can be used to dry and/or style hair. The device is expected to be effective in partially straightening curly hair and also for drying and/or smoothing straight hair. The invention provides a hair styling device comprising a first panel (114) and a second panel (116), the second panel being movable relative to the first panel. The panels are spaced apart by a non-zero spacing (S) when closed together. The device has an electric motor, an impeller, an electric heating element and an air flow channel. The first panel has first apertures in communication with the air flow channel. The second panel has second apertures in communication with an exhaust channel. The first and second panels are corrugated to increase the surface area of the panels and to increase the path length for hair passing between the panels.

Description

HAIR STYLING DEVICE

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to a hair styling device, and in particular to a device which can be used to dry and/or style hair. The device is expected to be effective in partially straightening curly hair, often called “hair taming”, and also for drying and/or smoothing straight hair.

Notwithstanding that the device could be used to dry hair without any intention to style the hair, the term “styling” is used throughout this specification because the device will normally act to straighten and/or smooth the hair as it is being dried and some styling will therefore occur.

For convenience, the following specification will refer to the styling of hair by women, but it is recognised that this applies also to men, and in particular the present invention can also be used by men.

BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

It is desired to dry hair which has been washed or otherwise made wet. Whilst hair will dry naturally it is not possible to control the styling of the hair when it dries naturally. Accordingly, most women prefer to control the drying procedure, for example by using a hair dryer to blow hot air onto the hair. Typically, the hair will be partially dried by a towel before using the hair dryer, so that the hair drier is used to dry hair which is damp rather than wet. The styling of the hair can be at least partially controlled by brushing the hair as it is being dried by the hair dryer.

Many hair dryers can be fitted with nozzles to provide a more concentrated air flow, and diffusers to provide a less concentrated air flow, when desired for a particular drying/styling operation.

It is also desired to style hair by adding waves or curls to naturally straight hair or by straightening naturally wavy or curly hair. To style hair in this way it is necessary to modify some of the chemical bonds which give the hair its natural form. The chemical bonds can be modified chemically with a perming solution, or through the application of heat and/or pressure.

Many women will combine the drying and styling procedures. For example, the heat generated by the hair dryer can be used also for styling, such as curling the hair around a circular brush as it is being dried. It is known to provide modified brushes which can be connected directly to a hair dryer so that heated air is blown outwards from the core of the brush and onto the hair. In US 2004/0129289 for example a motor, impeller and heating element (i.e. the hair dryer components) are located in the handle of a styling brush. In a further modification the curling brush can be rotated automatically.

Many women will use a hair straightener to style the hair, either after the hair has been dried as above, or as the final stage of the drying procedure. Hair straighteners are a particular form of hair styling device which use a combination of heat, pressure and tension upon the hair. Hair straighteners were originally referred to as “straightening irons” to reflect the fact that they replicated the action of ironing the hair, i.e. pressing the hair between a heated “iron” and a flat surface.

Most hair straighteners comprise a pair of arms which are hinged relative to one another, each arm carrying an electrically-heated hair-straightening panel. Each arm has a handle part which can together be gripped by the user. With the arms in their open condition the user inserts the proximal or scalp end of a chosen section of hair between the arms and then presses the arms together so that the section of hair is pressed between the hair-straightening panels. The hair straightener is then moved away from the scalp and the section of hair is heated and pressed as it passes between the panels. The hair is styled by the heat and pressure applied to the hair by the panels. The section of hair remains hot as it leaves the panels, and the section of hair between the user’s scalp and the panels is put under tension and held under tension as it cools. The combined effect of heat and tension act to straighten the hair.

Typically, to straighten the hair the arms are oriented so that the hair-straightening panels are substantially perpendicular to the scalp and the section of hair is pulled in a substantially linear direction between the panels. It is also possible, however, to orient the arms relative to the scalp so that the hair is forced to bend as it leaves the panels. Notwithstanding that the hair between the user’s scalp and the panels is put under tension, forcing the hair to bend around a relatively sharp edge as it first leaves the panels can add a wave or curl to the section of hair.

DE 10 2006 037 647 discloses a modified hair straightener with an additional pair of outer shells which can be rotated around the arms to define the bend which the hair must pass as it leaves the panels.

It is understood that the heat and pressure which are applied by a hair straightener acts to distort (flatten) the cross-sectional shape of the hair. Human hair has an outer cuticle comprising layers of flat thin overlapping cells or scales. Flattening the hair, and in particular flattening the cuticle, increases the alignment of the overlapping scales, which can increase the reflection from the hair and enhance the sheen upon the hair. Many users believe that styling their hair in this way makes their hair look more healthy because of the increased sheen achieved by the use of hair straighteners.

Hair crimpers are another type of hair styling device. Hair crimpers differ from hair straighteners in utilising corrugated panels. Also, unlike hair straighteners in which the hair is moved between the hair-straightening panels when the panels are pressed together, in hair crimpers the hair is clamped statically between the crimping panels until the style is set. Accordingly, the user styles discrete parts of a section of hair sequentially by clamping a part of the section of hair, then separating the panels and re-positioning them along the section of hair before clamping another part of the section of hair, and so on until all of the section of hair has been styled.

Hair wavers, including jumbo wavers, share the same operating principle as hair crimpers, but have larger amplitude corrugations so as to form waves of larger amplitude in the user’s hair.

Accordingly, whilst hair straighteners and hair crimpers/wavers share the feature of opposing heated panels, and share the principle of operation that the user applies pressure to the hair between the heated panels to style the hair, they differ in that the hair is moved between the panels with hair straighteners, but is not moved between the panels with hair crimpers/wavers. Other hair styling devices are provided to curl hair, for example WO 2009/077747, WO 2012/080751 and WO 2013/186547. WO 2015/132594 provides a device which can be used to curl or straighten hair.

It is understood that the regular and repeated use of hair styling devices, and in particular the over-styling of hair, can damage the hair. The regular and repeated distortion of the hair caused by hair straighteners can for example cause long-lasting damage to the hair. It is recognised that heating the hair to a high temperature and applying a large pressure can each cause long-lasting damage when applied separately, and the likelihood of damage increases when heat and pressure are applied together as in hair straighteners and hair crimpers/wavers.

WO 2019/238961 provides a hair straightener which seeks to reduce the likelihood of damage by somewhat separating the heating and pressing operations, allowing the user’s hair to withstand the combined effects of heat and pressure for a reduced period of time.

A multifunctional hair styling device utilising hot air is disclosed in Chinese patent application 105 942 698. The device has two movable arms along which heated air is blown. The air flow can be controlled to cause hot air to leave the arms by way of a relatively large end aperture at the end of each arm; if the arms are moved to lie against one another the device can be used similarly to a conventional hair dryer. Alternatively, the air flow can be directed to a large number of side apertures, the side apertures in one arm facing the side apertures in the other arm. In this configuration the device can be used as a hair straightener with a section of hair being heated and pressed as it is passed between the arms (so-called “pinch styling”). In a third configuration the arms can be separated with the air flow directed to the side apertures to create a relatively diffuse hot air flow.

WO 2020/169849 discloses another multifunctional hair styling device in which a hair straightener provides a removable handle of a hair dryer.

WO 2021/019239 discloses a hair drying and styling device comprising a pair of hinged arms. Each arm has two heating panels, and in use each heating panel of one arm is pressed against a heating panel of the other arm similarly to a conventional hair straightener. Each arm has a space between its heating panels and an air flow channel which opens into the space through respective apertures. A motor, impeller and heater are located in the air flow channel and air can thereby be heated and blown into the space to dry and heat a section of hair as it passes between the arms. In one embodiment the air flow enters the space through apertures in both arms, and in another embodiment the air flow enters the space through apertures in one arm and leaves the space through exhaust apertures in the other arm.

DE 201 19 863 U1 also discloses a hair drying and styling device comprising a pair of hinged arms, each arm carrying a heated panel whereby the heated panels can be pressed together in use. The device has an air flow channel along each of the arms. The air is heated and acts primarily to heat the panels but there are apertures in the panels through which at least some of the hot air can flow to engage the hair directly. The heated panels are corrugated, the depth of the corrugations varying across the panels. FR 2 937 839 discloses a hair styling device having a pair of hinged arms. One of the arms can be connected to a hair dryer whereby air can flow along the arm and pass through apertures in a styling panel mounted to the arm.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is an object of the present invention to provide a device which can be used to style hair whilst reducing the damage caused (or likely to be caused) to a user’s hair, especially following repeated use of the device.

It is another object of the invention to provide a device for styling hair which can be operated similarly to a hair straightener in applying heat and some tension to the hair but whilst applying significantly less (or perhaps minimal) pressure to the hair.

It is another object of the invention to provide a device for styling hair between two heated panels whilst maintaining a gap between the panels in order to avoid or at least reduce the distortion of the hair.

It is another object of the invention to provide a device for drying and styling hair, ideally damp hair which has previously been partially dried.

According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided a hair styling device comprising: a first panel; a second panel, the second panel being movable relative to the first panel; the device having an open condition in which the first and second panels are spaced apart by a first distance, and a closed condition in which the first and second panels are spaced apart by a second distance, the second distance being greater than zero and smaller than the first distance, the first and second panels facing one another in the closed condition; an electric motor; an impeller; an electric heating element; an air flow channel, at least a part of the impeller and at least a part of the heating element being in the air flow channel; the first panel having a number of first apertures, the first apertures being in communication with the air flow channel; the second panel having a number of second apertures; an exhaust channel in communication with the second apertures, the first and second panels being corrugated with peak(s) and trough(s) of the first panel facing corresponding trough(s) and peak(s) respectively of the second panel.

The first and second panels are hair-styling panels and in use a section of hair is styled (and perhaps also dried) between the panels.

During use of the device heated air is blown along the air flow channel, through the first apertures, through a section of hair located between the first and second panels, through the second apertures and along or through the exhaust channel. Accordingly, air passes into the space or gap between the first and second panels by way of the first apertures and not by way of the second apertures. The air flow is substantially controlled and, as it passes from the first panel to the second panel, the air moves between and approximately perpendicular to the individual hairs in a section of hair between the panels.

The inventors have found that allowing the air to exhaust through the second panel avoids much or all of the air passing along (substantially parallel with) the section of hair as the air seeks to escape from between the facing panels. At least some of that air would flow along the hair towards the root end and that air flow could lift some of the scales of the cuticle. Lifting the scales of the cuticle is contrary to the desired action of flattening the cuticle and the resulting sheen created in the section of hair would be reduced (perhaps encouraging the user to repeat the procedure in an attempt to obtain the desired sheen). By minimising the air flow along the section of hair the invention according to this aspect reduces the unwanted lifting of the scales and thereby reduces the likelihood of the user repeating the procedure, in turn reducing the likelihood of damage to the hair.

The inventors have also appreciated that the sheen on the user’s hair can be enhanced significantly without distorting or flattening the hair. Providing a non-zero spacing between the panels in their closed condition limits the pressure which can be applied to the hair and thereby limits (and preferably substantially avoids) distorting the hair. Nevertheless, the cuticle can be flattened and the sheen on the user’s hair can be enhanced.

Preferably, the panels in their closed condition are spaced apart by a distance greater than approximately 0.2 mm. It is understood that the thickness of human hair varies from around 0.02 mm to around 0.18 mm; arranging that the spacing between the panels will exceed the top end of that range ensures that the panels cannot be pressed together sufficiently to distort an individual hair. Whilst some distortion of some of the hairs might occur in a section of hair in which many individual hairs are stacked on top of each other, the likelihood of damaging (and in particular repeated) distortion is significantly reduced. In particular, it is not likely that all of the individual hairs will be distorted, and any hairs which are distorted will likely be distorted significantly less than with conventional hair straighteners.

Desirably the panels in their closed condition are spaced apart by a distance greater than approximately 0.5 mm, and ideally approximately 1 mm. It will be appreciated that such spacings will further reduce (and potentially eliminate) the likelihood of distorting or flattening individual hairs (or at least will reduce the proportion of the hairs which are distorted).

Preferably, the spacing between the first and second panels in the closed condition is adjustable by the user. For example, a user might be able to set the spacing in one or more discrete steps between a predetermined minimum spacing (for example 0.8 mm) and a predetermined maximum spacing (for example 1.5 mm), the chosen spacing being suited to effectively style the hair of a particular user. A particular user might also wish to vary the styling operation by using a different spacing at different times.

Accordingly therefore, in the present invention the panels are spaced apart in the closed condition. The closed condition is that in which the device is used to dry and style hair, so that the closed condition represents the minimum spacing between the panels. Providing corrugated panels increases the path along which the section of hair must travel as it passes between the panels, without increasing the overall width of the panels. It will be understood that, for a given rate of movement, the section of hair will take longer to pass between corrugated panels than flat panels of the same overall width. The longer travel time can increase the volume of heated air which engages the section of hair as the hair passes between the panels. It is desirable to minimise the overall width of the hair styling device (and therefore the panels) to increase its aesthetic appeal.

Providing corrugated panels also increases the surface area of the panels for a given width. Increasing the surface area of the panels allows for a greater number of apertures (or alternatively larger apertures, or both) for each panel and thereby enables an increase in the air flow rate through the panel.

In addition, corrugated panels will create some drag or friction in the section of hair as the hair engages the peaks of the corrugations and is caused to bend around those peaks. This provides two benefits. Firstly, because the panels are spaced apart by a distance greater than the thickness of an individual hair, it has been found to be necessary to provide some frictional resistance to the hair in order to reduce the likelihood that individual hairs will migrate (or be blown) along the panels and out of the gap between the panels. The corrugations have been found to create sufficient friction to retain the hair in the gap between the panels. Secondly, even a small amount of drag will cause tension in the section of hair between the scalp and the panels which can help to straighten the hair as it remains hot after leaving the panels. Notwithstanding that the panels are spaced apart therefore, the use of corrugated panels better enables the device to straighten hair, which is achieved without compressing or distorting the hair.

The term “corrugated” is used to describe the wave-like shaping of the panels, but it should not be inferred that there must be a plurality of complete waves in each panel. Whilst more than one wave for each panel can be provided, the invention can also be utilised with only a single wave (i.e. one complete peak plus one complete trough) for each panel. The invention can also be utilised with less than one complete wave, for example a half wave (or less than a half wave) for each panel. In these latter embodiments one of the panels is convex and the other is concave.

The number and depth of the peaks and troughs in the corrugations can be chosen to suit the application. It will be understood that the corrugations are primarily to increase the surface area of the panels and also to increase the path length for the hair between the panels. The same increased surface area and path length can be provided by one large corrugation or several smaller corrugations and both are within the scope of the present invention. It will also be understood that the surface area and path length will be increased more by corrugations having a larger amplitude. Increasing the amplitude will also increase the drag upon the hair as it passes between the panels, and thereby increase the tension in the hair between the scalp and panels. Increasing the tension can better straighten the hair as above described, but the amplitude should not be so great that the hair is distorted as it passes between the panels, or is damaged by excessive tension.

Whilst reference is made to an impeller it will be understood that other components could be used to move the air, such as a fan or a turbine for example. In the present application the term “impeller” is used as a general term to encompass any component which can be driven by the motor to move air.

In a conventional hair straightener the heat is supplied by electrical heating elements mounted in the hair-straightening panels; in the present invention some or all of the heat is provided by air which is heated by the heating element in the air flow channel and subsequently blown through the apertures in the first panel onto the hair passing thereacross. In some embodiments the heat may be provided solely by way of this heated air. Preferably, however, the device includes a secondary heat source for heating and/or drying the hair, for example the first and/or second panel may be directly heated, desirably by way of dedicated secondary electrical heating elements, most suitably ceramic heating elements. In these preferable embodiments the hair is heated by a combination of heated air and the directly heated panel(s).

Preferably, if the first and/or second panels are directly heated, those panels are thermally conductive, for example metallic. The direct heating elements can therefore be located in a position which does not obstruct any of the first and/or second apertures, the heat which is generated by the secondary heating element spreading across the respective panel by conduction. Ideally, the secondary heating elements are located at one or more edges of the first and/or second panels.

It can be arranged that the (first and/or second) panel is heated by its secondary heating element to a temperature which is higher than the temperature of the heated air passing through the first apertures. It can alternatively be arranged that the (first and/or second) panel is heated by its secondary heating element to a temperature which is lower than the temperature of the heated air passing through the first apertures, or the temperatures can be substantially the same. The operating temperature for the heated air and/or for the panel(s) may be adjustable by the user so that a particular heating regime can be provided which is suited to a particular hair type and to a particular styling operation. For example, for some operations it may be desired to dry and/or style a section of hair with a combination of heated air and secondary heating, whereas for other operations only heated air is used and the secondary heating elements are switched off.

An alternative secondary heating arrangement is to use non-contact heating such as infra-red radiation. It can for example be arranged that one or more sources of infra-red radiation is located behind the first panel and/or the second panel with the radiation passing through the first and/or second apertures to heat the section of hair between the panels. The different possible heating regimes described above can be utilised with this secondary heating arrangement also.

Desirably, the air is heated to between around 100°C to around 130°C in the air flow channel. This is substantially the same temperature to which air is heated by a conventional hair dryer for example. The air is cooled by its engagement with the (damp) hair and will typically be exhausted from the device at a significantly lower temperature (for example around 70°C, which is expected to be cool enough to avoid burning the user if the exhaust air should engage the scalp for example).

The electrical heating element in the air flow channel is preferably an array (mesh) of metallic filaments which are heated by the passage of an electric current through the filaments. Such heating elements are typically used in hair dryers and are an effective means to heat air passing between the filaments. If secondary heating elements are used for the first and/or second panels they are preferably ceramic heaters.

Preferably, the exhaust channel comprises one or more openings through which the air can pass (passively) out of the device after passing through the second apertures. Alternatively, the air can be moved (actively) to or along the exhaust channel, for example by a second or exhaust impeller in the exhaust channel. The air can thereby be drawn through the second apertures, past the second impeller and out of the device. Alternatively again, the exhaust channel can be connected to the air flow channel to recirculate some or all of the air within the device. This latter option has the potential benefit of saving energy because the air passing the heating element in the air flow channel will be above ambient temperature; it has the potential disadvantage that the recirculating air contains more moisture than ambient air which might limit the temperature increase as the air passes the heating element.

The combined cross-sectional area of the second apertures is preferably at least as large as (and desirably greater than) the combined cross-sectional area of the first apertures. In one embodiment the combined cross-sectional areas of the first and second apertures are the same. In such arrangements the second apertures do not restrict or throttle the air flow and the likelihood of air flowing along the hair to escape other than through the second apertures is reduced.

The cross-sectional area of the exhaust channel is preferably at least as large as (and desirably greater than) the combined cross-sectional area of the second apertures. Accordingly, the exhaust channel does not restrict or throttle the air flow (which is particularly beneficial in arrangements in which the air is exhausted passively).

The hair styling device can include a controller to control the operation of the motor and of the heating element(s). It can be arranged that the hair styling device has a sensor which can detect when the device is in the closed condition, and it can furthermore be arranged that the controller will reduce the heat supplied when the device is in the open condition. Such an arrangement can save energy by reducing or preventing heated air being blown through the apertures in the first panel when the device is in the open condition.

It will be appreciated that it might be technically undesirable to repeatedly switch the motor on and off, and/or to switch the electrical heating element on and off, each time the first and second panels are moved between their open and closed positions. It might be more desirable to switch the secondary heating on and off, especially if the secondary heating is provided by infra-red sources for example.

Preferably, the first panel is mounted to a first arm. Preferably also, the second panel is mounted to a second arm. In such configurations the arms are relatively movable whereby the panels can be moved between the open and closed conditions by way of the arms. Desirably, each arm has a handle part, which handle parts can together be gripped by a user.

Preferred embodiments of the device are intended for one-handed operation and in such embodiments the handle parts of the arms will preferably allow the user both to grip the device during use and to move the panels between their open and closed positions by squeezing the arms together.

The arms are preferably hinged together and spring biased to the open condition. The arms may be hinged together at their ends opposed to the panels (as with conventional hair straighteners) or the hinge may be located between the ends of the arms (like a pair of scissors).

Alternatively, the first panel is mounted directly to the first arm and the second panel is mounted indirectly to the first arm by a hinge; the device can be moved between the open and closed conditions by an actuator or by a manually-movable trigger or the like mounted to the first arm.

Preferably, the air flow channel is located in the first arm and the exhaust channel is located in the second arm. Preferably also, the electric motor, the impeller and the electrical heating element are located in the first arm.

The panels may be rigidly connected to the respective arms. Alternatively, one or both of the panels may be movably mounted to its respective arm.

According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a hair styling device comprising: a first arm and a second arm which are movable relative to one another between an open condition and a closed condition; a first panel carried by the first arm; a second panel carried by the second arm; the first and second panels being spaced apart by a first distance when the arms are in the open condition, and being spaced apart by a second distance when the arms are in the closed condition, the second distance being greater than zero and smaller than the first distance; at least one electric heating element for heating the first panel and/or the second panel; the first panel being movably mounted to the first arm, the first panel being resiliently biased towards the second panel; the device having a first magnet mounted to the first panel and a second magnet carried by the second arm, the first and second magnets being arranged to repel each other when the first and second arms are in the closed condition.

It is arranged that the repulsion between the magnets when the arms are in the closed condition causes the first and second panels to be forced apart somewhat. The magnets can therefore ensure that the panels are spaced apart in the closed condition. The spacing between the panels is preferably determined by the balance between the resilient biasing force (which seeks to reduce the spacing) and the magnetic repulsion (which seeks to increase the spacing). It will be understood that the spacing when a section of hair is present between the panels can differ from the (minimum) spacing when hair is not present. For example a section of hair which is thicker than the minimum spacing will cause the spacing to increase.

The range of movement which is available to the first panel relative to the first arm preferably exceeds the desired spacing between the panels in the closed condition whereby the first panel “floats” relative to the first arm and the resulting spacing between the panels is determined by the balance of forces and not by any structural elements of the device. The combination of magnets acting in opposition to a resilient bias effectively controls the tension which the panels impart to the hair rather than directly controlling the spacing between the panels.

The second panel may be rigidly mounted to the second arm. Preferably, however, the second panel is movably mounted to the second arm and is resiliently biased towards the first panel. In such an arrangement the second magnet is preferably mounted to the second panel.

Preferably, a part of the first arm engages a part of the second arm in the closed condition, the respective parts when engaged defining the closed condition for the arms. The resiliently biased movement of the panel(s) relative to the arm(s), and the repulsion of the magnets, enable the balance of the forces to define the closed condition for the panels.

A single pair of opposing magnets can be provided to force the first and second panels apart, or multiple pairs of opposing magnets can be provided. If multiple pairs of magnets are provided they can be distributed across, along and/or around the first and second panels.

In the event that the repulsive force of the magnets in the closed condition is not precisely perpendicular to the plane of the panels, the repulsive force will also induce a lateral force seeking to move one of the panels laterally relative to the other panel. If the panels are corrugated any lateral force can act to reduce the spacing between the panels at one location and to increase the spacing between the panels at another location, which is not desirable. Preferably therefore the magnets are configured and/or are located to avoid or reduce any lateral force upon the panels. Desirably, the first magnet and the second magnet are elongated across the width of the panels.

In embodiments according to the second aspect of the invention the first and second magnets act as spacing elements which, together with the resilient bias, provide the desired spacing between the panels in the closed condition.

In embodiments according to the first aspect, the first and second panels can be rigidly mounted to their respective arm and a structural spacing element or elements between (or at least adjacent to) the panels can be provided to determine and maintain the desired spacing between the panels in the closed condition. Embodiments according to the second aspect can include a structural spacing element as well a magnetic spacing element.

In a two-part handle arrangement in which the arms are hinged together at their ends opposed to the panels a structural spacing element(s) may be located between the handle parts of the arms. In a two-part handle arrangement with a scissor action the structural spacing element(s) can be a part of the hinge, or can at least be associated with the hinge, whereby to limit the hinging movement and thereby determine the minimum spacing between the panels in the closed condition.

The spacing element(s) preferably act to maintain a uniform spacing between the panels in the closed condition. It is desired that the spacing is uniform along the length of the panels. It is also desired that the spacing is uniform across the width of the panels. This helps to better ensure that the styling action is consistent for all of the individual hairs in the section of hair, and furthermore helps to ensure that none of the individual hairs in the section of hair is distorted as it passes between the panels. There may be two or more spacing elements if desired. In particular, it may be desirable to have a first spacing element adjacent to one of the ends (or alternatively or additionally at one of the side edges) of the panels and a second spacing element adjacent to the other of the ends (or alternatively or additionally at the other of the side edges) so as to better ensure that the spacing between the panels in the closed condition is uniform along and across the panels.

The spacing element(s) can comprise magnetic spacing elements and/or structural spacing elements. In this respect, it will be understood that structural spacing elements can impair or hinder the insertion of a section of hair into the gap between the panels when the arms are in the open condition, especially if the structural spacing elements are located at the free end of the arms. If spacing elements are provided adjacent to the free end of the arms it is therefore preferable to have magnetic spacing elements in that location.

Preferably, the first apertures are substantially circular. Preferably also the cross-sectional area of the first apertures is substantially uniform across the first panel. The invention does not, however, preclude non-uniform apertures, nor a mixture of different aperture shapes and/or sizes, across the first panel if that is desired. For example, the apertures may increase in size the further they are from the impeller whereby to seek to balance the rate of air flow through the apertures in use. Also, at least one of the apertures can be elongated (e.g. a slit) or otherwise shaped and/or angled to provide a desired pattern of air flow (including a non-uniform pattern) into the space between the panels.

The second apertures can match the abovementioned features of the first apertures, or differ from one or more of those features, as desired. Preferably, the size, shape and position of each of the second apertures match the size, shape and position of respective first apertures. In this preferred embodiment the air can flow directly through a first aperture, across the gap between the panels, and through a corresponding second aperture, whereby the air flow can be almost precisely perpendicular to the direction of movement of the hair between the panels. (In practice the air flow will not be precisely perpendicular because it will deviate as it engages and passes through the section of hair.)

It will be understood that in use the heated air is blown through the apertures into a relatively small volume between the panels. The flow rate of air through the apertures which is required to heat (and if desired dry) the section of hair within the volume is therefore significantly lower than the flow rate generated by a conventional hair dryer for example. The motor and impeller can therefore be of significantly smaller capacity than those of a conventional hair dryer without adversely affecting the styling performance. The handle can thereby be significantly smaller than the body of a conventional hair dryer, and ideally of a size similar to a hair straightener and which can readily be gripped in one hand by the user.

As above stated, it has been found that embodiments of the invention are particularly effective in flattening the cuticle so as to enhance the sheen of the hair. The invention is also suitable for reducing the natural curl in a section of hair. The benefits of the invention are expected to be enhanced by use on damp (e.g. partially dried) hair, so that the hair is dried and styled by the device. The invention is also expected to be effective in improving the sheen and appearance of hair which has undergone repeated curling and/or straightening operations, including hair which has been damaged by over-styling. Notwithstanding that it is desired to minimise the pressure which is applied to the individual hairs in the section of hair being styled, the inventors do not exclude the use of pressing elements in association with the first and second panels. Pressing elements can significantly increase the drag upon the hair as it passes through the device, and thereby increase the tension and the straightening effect. Notwithstanding that the pressing elements might distort the hair they may be desired by some users.

Accordingly, some embodiments can have a first pressing element adjacent to one of the side edges of the first panel and/or a second pressing element adjacent to the same side edge of the second panel.

The inventors have appreciated that in embodiments with pressing elements it is not necessary to apply heat and pressure to the section of hair at the same time, and instead those operations can be separated somewhat. Unlike conventional hair straighteners, with the pressing elements located adjacent to the side edges of the first and second panels the hair will be heated (but not pressed) as it passes between the panels, and is pressed as it (subsequently) passes between the pressing elements. Whilst it is recognised that the hair is still hot as it passes between the pressing elements downstream of the first and second panels, the section of hair undergoes the combined effects of heating and pressing for a much shorter path, and ideally a much shorter time, than with the known hair straighteners, thereby reducing the likelihood of damage to the hair.

The pressing elements can be relatively narrow (in the direction of travel of the section of hair), perhaps around 2 mm for example. It will be understood that a conventional hair straightener could not operate effectively with panels only 2 mm across. With the present invention, however, since the pressing elements act upon hair which has already been heated, they can act to straighten hair despite their significantly reduced width.

Preferably the first and second pressing elements move with the respective first and second panels between similarly open and closed conditions.

Desirably there is a third pressing element adjacent to the other of the side edges of the first panel and a fourth pressing element adjacent to the other of the side edges of the second panel. Accordingly, the first panel has the first pressing element adjacent to one of its side edges and the third pressing element adjacent to the other of its side edges; the second panel similarly has the second and fourth pressing elements adjacent to its respective side edges. In such an arrangement, one pair of pressing elements is “upstream” of the first and second panels in use and another pair of pressing elements is “downstream” of the first and second panels in use. Whichever direction the user passes her hair through the device a pair of pressing elements will follow the first and second panels so that the user does not have to correctly orient the device relative to her head in use.

It will be understood that the pressing elements can perform two functions. Firstly, the pressing elements create pressure and thereby increase the drag upon each of the individual hairs in the section of hair so as to better straighten the hair. Secondly, the pressing elements effectively seal the gap between the side edges of the first and second panels and limit the escape of heated air through that gap. The second function helps to ensure that substantially all of the heated air passes through the second apertures and further reduces the likelihood of air passing along the section of hair and lifting scales of the cuticle.

To enhance the second function the gap between the free ends of the panels (opposed to the handle parts) can also be closed off by suitable sealing elements, or perhaps by an extension of the pressing elements. It can thereby be arranged that the heated air can only leave the device by way of the second apertures and the exhaust channel.

If desired, the pressing elements can also act as spacing elements, i.e. it can be arranged that the pressing elements engage one another in the closed condition and are sufficiently rigid to maintain a chosen spacing between the panels. In such an arrangement the spacing between the panels will necessarily increase if a thick section of hair is styled which holds the pressing elements apart (and thereby holds the first and second panels further apart).

Preferably, the pressing elements are flexible strips mounted along one or both of the side edges of the first and second panels. Flexible strips have the benefit of providing a better seal to prevent the unwanted escape of heated air. Flexible strips have the further benefit of balancing the pressure which is applied to the individual hairs in the section of hair, i.e. the flexible strips will distort somewhat adjacent to thicker portions of a section of hair when pressed therebetween. Ideally the flexible strips are of silicone. Whether or not the pressing elements are flexible strips, they can if desired be spring-mounted, i.e. so that they can move somewhat when pressed together.

Whilst it is preferred to provide at least two pressing elements, it is not necessary that two flexible strips be provided. For example, a single flexible strip may be mounted to the first or second panel and be engageable with a rigid surface mounted to the second or first panel respectively. The rigid surface comprises a pressing element by virtue of its relationship with the flexible strip in the closed condition, i.e. it cooperates with the flexible strip to press a section of hair therebetween. The rigid surface can be an extension of the respective panel or it can be a separate component carried by or mounted to the panel.

Desirably, the flexible strip(s) include a number of ribs or fingers which are aligned across the panels. The ribs can act like the elements of a comb to separate the section of hair into smaller sections, and help to maintain the separation of the smaller sections during use of the device.

It will be understood that pressing a section of hair, in particular between pressing elements of silicone, can cause an undesirable build-up of static electrical charge on the section of hair. Embodiments of the device which include pressing elements can also incorporate a negative ion generator, the negative ions being introduced into the space between the panels to engage the section of hair being styled. The negative ions can be added to the air flow in the air flow channel. Alternatively or additionally, in known fashion one or both of the panels can be coated with tourmaline which is known to release negative ions when hot.

It will be understood that optional features which are set out above in relation to one aspect of the invention can also be utilised with the other aspect of the invention where compatible; the complete list of suitable optional features for each aspect of the invention is not being set out in order to avoid unnecessary repetition. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The invention will now be described in more detail, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings, in which:

Fig.1 shows a perspective view of a first embodiment of hair styling device according to the first aspect of the present invention, in the closed condition;

Fig.2 shows the hair styling device of Fig.1 in the open condition;

Fig.3 shows a cross-section through the hair styling device of Fig.1 , in the closed condition, in the region of the first and second panels;

Fig.4 shows a perspective view of a first alternative design of hair styling device, in the closed condition;

Fig.5 shows the hair styling device of Fig.4 in the open condition;

Fig.6 shows a perspective view of a second alternative design of hair styling device, in the closed condition;

Fig.7 shows the hair styling device of Fig.6 in the open condition;

Fig.8 shows another perspective view of the hair styling device of Fig.6;

Fig.9 shows a cross-section through the hair styling device of Fig.6, in the closed condition, in the region of the first and second panels;

Fig.10 shows another cross-section through the hair styling device of Fig.6, in a different region;

Fig.11 shows a perspective view of a second embodiment of hair styling device according to the first aspect of the invention, in the closed condition;

Fig.12 shows a view of the hair styling device of Fig.11 in the open condition;

Fig.13 shows a cross-section through the hair styling device of Fig.11 in the closed condition, in the region of the panels;

Fig.14 shows a perspective view of a pressing element of the hair styling device of Figs. 6 and 11 ;

Fig.15 shows a perspective view of an alternative pressing element;

Fig.16 shows a perspective view of a first embodiment of hair styling device according to the second aspect of the invention;

Fig.17 shows an end view of the hair styling device of Fig.16; and Fig.18 shows a perspective view of a carrier for a styling panel of the device of Fig.16.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Figs.1-3 show a first embodiment of hair styling device 110 according to the first aspect of the invention. The device has a handle 112, a first panel 114 and a second panel 116.

The handle 112 of the hair styling device 110 is formed by the handle parts of a first arm 112a and a second arm 112b. The first panel 114 is rigidly mounted to the first arm 112a and the second panel 116 is rigidly mounted to the second arm 112b. The arms 112a and 112b are hinged together at their ends opposed to the panels 114,116. The arms are biased apart by a spring (not seen) mounted adjacent to the hinge. The hinge is configured to limit the separation of the arms 112a,b and thereby to define the open condition as seen in Fig.2.

The hair styling device 110 is therefore generally structured similarly to a conventional hair straightener and can be used in a manner similar to a conventional hair straightener. In use therefore, a user first maintains a relatively loose grip upon the arms 112a,b with one hand, and with the other hand grasps a section of hair to be styled (not shown). The user moves the hair styling device 110 towards her scalp and places a chosen section of hair between the panels

114.116. The user squeezes the two arms 112a,b together to move the hair styling device to the closed position of Fig.1 , and then slides the hair styling device 110 away from the scalp and towards the free end of the section of hair.

The hair styling device 110 therefore has an open condition (Fig.2) in which the panels 114,116 are spaced apart by a first (non-uniform) distance, and a closed condition (Fig.1) in which the panels are spaced apart by a second distance. Importantly, the second distance is not zero so that there is a spacing S (Fig.3) between the first and second panels in the closed condition. As above stated, the spacing S is chosen to be sufficient to ensure that little or no pressure is applied to the individual hairs in a section of hair as they pass between the panels 114,116.

As seen in Fig.2, the first panel 114 has a number of first apertures 120. Each of the first apertures 120 is in communication with an air flow channel 122, part of which air flow channel is seen in Fig.3. The air flow channel 122 continues along the interior of the first arm 112a to an air entry 124 in the end of the arm 112a adjacent to the hinge (which air entry may be identical to the air entry 324 seen in Fig.8).

The arm 112a contains a motor, an impeller and a heating element (not seen). The motor drives the impeller to rotate which draws air into the air entry 124 and blows the air along the air flow channel 122, past the heating element and through the first apertures 120. Accordingly, in use hot air passes through the first apertures 120 into the gap or space between the panels

114.116, which gap contains a part of the chosen section of hair in use (and which gap is seen in Fig.3).

It will be understood that the precise arrangement of the motor, impeller and heating element are not critical to the invention, provided that they operate together to deliver air at the desired temperature (for example 100°C to 130°C) through the first apertures 120 in use. It is desirable, however, that the motor lies in the air flow channel upstream of the heating element so that it is cooled by ambient air flow. It is also desirable that the heating element is downstream of the impeller so that heat is not wasted as the air passes the impeller. The heating element can be immediately adjacent to the impeller in the arm 112a, or it can be mounted upon the underside of the first panel 114, or anywhere in between those locations, as desired.

As seen in Fig.3, the second panel 116 has a number of second apertures 126. The second arm 112b also has a number of openings 128 which are parts of an exhaust channel by which air can pass out of the device 110. In this embodiment the openings 128 are formed through a wall 130 of the second arm 112b, but it will be understood that the wall 130 is optional and the second apertures 126 could alternatively also provide the exhaust channel and open directly to the outside of the device.

There is an open space 132 between the second panel 116 and the wall 130 which also forms a part of the exhaust channel in this embodiment. Each of the second apertures 126 is in communication with the openings 128 by way of the open space 132.

In this embodiment the first panel 114 (and similarly the second panel 116) is also directly heated, by a separate secondary heating element or elements (not shown). The first and second panels are preferably thermally conductive (e.g. metallic) and a respective secondary heating element (suitably a ceramic heating element) is located along one or both side edges of each panel. Heat is thereby supplied directly to the panels without obscuring the apertures. It will be understood that secondary heating is optional since some embodiments of the hair styling device could utilise only the heat provided by the hot air flow.

It will be understood that it is an important feature of the invention to ensure a defined gap or spacing S between the panels 114 and 116 in the closed condition of Figs.1 and 3, and the spacing should ideally be uniform (or at least substantially uniform) across the width of the panels as shown in Fig.3. The spacing should also ideally be uniform along the length of the panels. Structural spacing elements 134 (Fig.2) are provided to help to ensure that the minimum desired spacing is reliably and repeatedly attained, and reliably maintained, during use. In this embodiment the spacing elements comprise upstanding rigid formations 134 which are mounted to the first arm 112a and which engage parts of the second arm 112b in the closed condition. The first embodiment could for example have parts similar to the parts 336 shown in Fig.10 and which are engaged by the formations 334 of that device.

Utilising two spacing elements 134, located to opposing sides of the centreline of the arm 112a, and located a significant distance from the hinge, helps to ensure that the spacing S can be maintained, and also that the spacing S is uniform (or at least substantially uniform) along the full length and across the full width of the panels 114,116. The section of hair therefore passes through a uniform gap between the panels 114,116 and more consistent and repeatable styling is applied to all of the hairs in that section, and to each section of hair which is passed through the device.

It will be seen that the rigid formations 134 are tapered. In common with the arrangement shown in Fig.10, the formations 134 enter into cooperating tapered recesses (not seen) in the second arm 112b in order to restrict relative lateral movement between the handle parts 112a,b in the closed condition. During use of the hair styling device 110 a chosen section of hair is passed through the gap between the panels 114,116, from the left or right of Fig.3. The section of hair is heated to a desired temperature during its passage between the panels 114,116 by a combination of the hot air which is blown through the apertures 120 and by the secondary heating elements of the first and second panels 114,116. If (as is expected usually to be the case) the hair is damp, the combination of the heated air and the heated panels will heat and dry the hair.

In addition, the action of passing a section of hair through the small gap between the panels 114,116 flattens the cuticle and increases the sheen upon the hair.

Furthermore, notwithstanding the gap between the panels the action of pulling the device along a section of hair will create tension in the hair. Even a small amount of tension can ensure that the hair between the scalp and the panels is pulled straight and since that hair is hot when it leaves the panels the tension will act to straighten the hair.

It will be understood that the air can pass from the first apertures 120, through the section of hair between the panels 114,116 and then through the second apertures 126. Little or none of the air is required to pass along the hair, in particular towards the root end of the hair, which air flow could cause some of the scales of the cuticle to lift and thereby reduce the sheen of the hair.

It will be seen in Fig.3 that each of the second apertures 126 is aligned with a respective first aperture and that the respective apertures are all the same size. The respective apertures in this embodiment are also all the same shape. The air can therefore flow directly across the device, substantially perpendicular to the direction of movement of hair through the device. It is not necessary that the respective apertures are aligned or of the same size and shape, but that is usually preferred. Also, the combined cross-sectional area of the second apertures 126 should be at least as large as the combined cross-sectional area of the first apertures 120 in order that the second apertures 126 do not provide a restriction to the total air flow.

It will also be seen from Fig.3 that each of the second apertures 126 has a corresponding opening 128, albeit that not all of the openings 128 are precisely aligned with the second apertures. The openings 128 are slightly larger than the second apertures 126. It is not necessary that the number of openings 128 matches the number of second apertures 126, but the combined cross-sectional area of the openings 128 should be at least as large as the combined cross-sectional area of the second apertures 126 in order that the openings 128 do not provide a restriction to the total air flow.

It will be understood that the corrugations increase the drag upon the hair as the hair passes through the device, partly because of the increased frictional engagement of the hair with the peaks of the corrugations and also because of the force required to bend the hair as it passes the peaks. The increased drag increases the tension in the section of hair between the user’s scalp and the panels and can thereby enhance the straightening effect, without compressing or distorting the hair. Figs.4-5 show a first alternative design of hair styling device 210. Many of the components and features of the device 210 are shared with the device 110 and only the differences will be discussed below.

The first major difference between the devices 210 and 110 is that the first panel 214 and the second panel 216 of the device 210 are flat, similarly to a conventional hair straightener.

It will be understood that the length of the path which a section of hair must traverse as it passes between the panels 214,216 matches the width W of the panels. On the contrary, the length of the path which a section of hair must traverse in the device 110 is greater than the width W because of the corrugations. It is generally desired to minimise the width W in order to increase the aesthetic appeal of the device. It is also generally desired to maximise the path length whereby the maximise the drying and heating of the section of hair.

It will also be understood that the surface area of the panels 114,116 is somewhat greater than the surface area of the panels 214,216 of the same width W. A greater number of apertures 120 and/or larger apertures can therefore be provided in the panels 114,116. It will be understood that increasing the combined area of the apertures 120 is beneficial in maximising the air flow to the section of hair in use, and in reducing the pumping losses.

Fig.3 shows the undulating form of the corrugated panels 114, 116 of the first embodiment. It will be understood that the wavelength of the corrugations (and therefore the number of waves in the width W), and the amplitude of the corrugations, can both be chosen to provide the desired path length and surface area. It will also be understood that increasing the amplitude, and also reducing the wavelength, will tend to increase the drag upon the section of hair as it moves between the panels. The amplitude of the waves shown in Fig.3 is exaggerated slightly for ease of understanding and it will be understood that the form of the corrugations can be varied significantly whilst still maintaining the benefits of the invention.

The corrugations shown in Fig.3 are symmetrical. This helps to ensure that the device is not “handed” and helps to ensure that the device operates equally regardless of the direction of movement of the section of hair across the panels. It is also aesthetically pleasing, but is an optional feature.

It will be seen that the amplitude and wavelength of the central peak of the corrugations shown in Fig.3 are significantly larger than the amplitude and wavelength of the troughs to either side. This has the benefit of increasing the cross-sectional area of the air flow channel 122 which in turn reduces the pumping losses. It will be understood for example that the cross-sectional area of the air flow channel of the device 110 can be significantly larger than that of the device 210 (for similar first arms) because of the corrugated panels, and especially because of the larger central peak.

In other alternative embodiments the spacing S is adjustable by the user whereby to vary the styling operation. For example, the length of the spacing elements (134) may be adjustable.

The other major difference of the device 210 is the absence of exhaust openings in the second arm 212b. In this device the second apertures (not seen) in the second panel 216 are all connected to an exhaust channel (not seen) inside the formation 236 and second arm 212b. The exhaust channel includes a second impeller (also not seen) and the air passes from the second apertures, along the exhaust channel, past the impeller, and leaves the device through an exhaust opening (not seen) adjacent to the hinge. It will be understood that these features could be provided also in the other described devices.

Figs.6-10 show a second alternative design of hair styling device 310. The device 310 is somewhat similar to the device 210 described above and only the major features and differences will be described.

The device 310 has a handle 312, a (flat) first panel 314 and a (flat) second panel 316. The (non-zero) spacing S between the first and second panels in the closed condition is shown in Fig.9. Similarly to the other embodiments, the spacing S is sufficient to ensure that the individual hairs in a section of hair are not pressed as they pass between the panels 314,316.

The major differences for the device 310 are the first and second pressing elements 340 which are mounted adjacent to one of the aligned side edges of the first panel 314 and the second panel 316, and the third and fourth pressing elements 342 which are mounted adjacent to the other of the aligned side edges of the panels. For simplicity, in this design all of the pressing elements 340,342 are identically formed, though that is not necessary in other designs and embodiments.

In use of the device it will be understood that one pair of pressing elements (340 or 342) will be upstream of the panels 314,316 (i.e. the section of hair being styled will engage the upstream pressing elements before passing between the panels). The other pair of pressing elements (342 or 340) will be downstream of the panels. As above stated, a section of hair can be straightened by a combination of heat and tension, i.e. without pressure, but some users might prefer the increased tension which can be obtained by an arrangement having dedicated pressing elements as opposed to no pressing elements as in the first embodiment.

The upstream pressing elements press unheated hair whereas the downstream pressing elements press heated hair. The upstream pressing elements are largely redundant in terms of styling the section of hair. Nevertheless, the provision of two pairs of pressing elements, at both sides of the panels, has a number of advantages as set out below.

Firstly, the provision of two pairs of pressing elements means that the device is not “handed” and the user does not need to correctly orient the device before use, i.e. she can use the device with the pressing elements 340 or 342 facing towards her scalp.

Secondly, as seen in Fig.9 each pair of pressing elements 340 and 342 engage each other and therefore effectively seal or close off the sides of the gap between the panels 314,316. Effectively preventing the escape of air from the side edges of the panels better ensures that the air passes out through the second apertures rather than passing along the section of hair. Though not shown in the drawings, the end of the gap between the panels 314,316 (i.e. the end opposed to the hinge) can also be sealed to prevent the escape of hot air. A separate sealing member can seal off the end of the gap, or one or both of the pressing elements can be extended to pass around the end of the panels 314,316 to seal the end of the gap. An alternative pressing element 350 which is suitable also for sealing off the gap at the end of the panels is shown in Fig.15 and described in detail below. During use of the hair styling device 310 a chosen section of hair passes through the gap between the panels 314,316, from the left or right of Fig.9. The section of hair is heated to a desired styling temperature during its passage between the panels 314,316 by a combination of the hot air which is blown along the air flow channel 322 and through the apertures 320 and by the secondary heating elements of the panels 314,316 if present. The section of hair subsequently passes between the downstream pressing elements 340 or 342 and since the hair remains hot as it is pressed between those elements it is styled partly by a combination of the applied heat and pressure of the pressing elements, and also because the hair is subsequently pulled straight. Depending upon the heat and pressure applied to the length of hair, and also depending upon the hair type, the hair styling device may be used to fully straighten curly or wavy hair, or it may be used to partially straighten (tame) curly or wavy hair.

Figs.11-13 show a second embodiment of hair styling device 410 according to the first aspect of the invention. The second embodiment shares the feature of pressing elements 340,342 with the device 310. Since the benefits of those separate features are described above, and those benefits are all shared with the second embodiment, the features and benefits will not be repeated.

A pressing element 340,342 is shown in Fig.14. As above stated, four identical pressing elements 340,342 are used in the hair styling device 310 of the second alternative design. Four identical pressing elements 340,342 are also used in the hair styling device 410 of the second embodiment. The pressing elements are made of silicone and are therefore somewhat flexible. The pressing elements have a pressing edge 344 (it is the pressing edge 344 which in use is pressed against the section of hair or against the neighbouring pressing element). In this embodiment the pressing edge 344 has a width w (in the direction of movement of the section of hair in use) of around 2 mm. It will be noted that the width w is significantly smaller than the width W. The width W is similar to the width of the panels of a conventional hair straightener) so that the present device significantly reduces the distance (and in use the duration) for which the section of hair experiences the combined effect of heat and pressure. It is thereby expected that the hair styling devices 310,410 will cause significantly less damage to a user’s hair, in particular during repeated usage, than a conventional hair straightener. The hair styling devices 110,210 have no pressing elements at all and are expected to cause even less (or perhaps no) damage. It is also expected that the hair styling devices 110,210,310,410 can be used on hair which has already been damaged by over-styling, without causing significant further damage.

The pressing element 340,342 also has a number of ribs 346 which are oriented across the panels 314,316, i.e. in the direction of movement of the section of hair. The ribs 346 act similarly to the elements of a comb in separating a section of hair into a number of separate smaller sections. The ribs also help to maintain the separate smaller sections during use of the hair styling devices 310,410.

The pressing elements 340,342 are separate components mounted along the side edges of the panels of the hair styling devices 310,410 as shown in the drawings. As above stated other embodiments have only one pair of pressing elements at one side edge of the panels. It is also possible to utilise only one of the pressing elements 340,342 at each side edge of one of the panels, the pressing element cooperating with a rigid surface adjacent to the other panel. For example, in a first modified version of the design of Fig.6 or the embodiment of Fig.11 , a rigid pressing element could replace the flexible pressing element (340 and/or 342) mounted to the second panel. In a second modified version a rigid pressing element could replace each of the flexible pressing elements (340 and/or 342) mounted to the first panel and to the second panel.

It will be appreciated that in the modified versions described above, a rigid pressing element does not need to be a separate component and could be an extension of the panel. In particular, a flexible pressing element 340 mounted to the first panel 314,414 could engage a rigid extension of the respective second panel.

In the devices shown the pressing elements 340,342 are flexible but are securely mounted to the respective panels 314,316; 414,416. In another alternative embodiment the pressing elements are adjustably mounted to the panels so that the user can adjust the pressure applied by the pressing elements and thereby vary the styling operation. It may be desirable to be able to adjust the pressing elements between a zero spacing in the closed condition (as shown) and a spacing which exceeds the spacing S between the panels.

In embodiments in which the minimum spacing between the panels is determined by flexible pressing elements, the spacing during a styling operation may be adjustable by the user by varying the force applied to the handle parts. For example, it may be determined that most styling operations for most hair types require a particular spacing between the panels and it can be arranged that the particular spacing is set when the pressing elements of the respective panels are moved into engagement. The flexible pressing elements are preferably sufficiently rigid to maintain the particular spacing unless the user squeezes the handle parts together with an especially large force which (resiliently) distorts or deforms the pressing elements somewhat. Permitting the user to apply an especially large force in order to reduce the spacing between the panels provides an option for straightening (or partially straightening) particularly curly hair for some hair types. Even in such arrangements, however, it is desirable to incorporate spacing elements so that a controlled (minimum) gap between the panels is ensured even when the pressing elements are distorted.

An alternative pressing element 350 is shown in Fig.15. The pressing element 350 comprises a continuous rectangular element, ideally of silicone material. It will be understood that a pressing element 350 could be mounted to both of the first and second panels with the respective pressing edges 352 aligned. The side parts 354,356 of the pressing element 350 have ribs 346 which are aligned across the panels in use. The ribs 346 are identical to the ribs 346 of Fig.14, and serve the same purpose, but may be differently configured in other embodiments.

The side parts 354,356 are joined by respective end parts 358. It will be understood that in the assembled hair styling device incorporating pressing elements 350 that one of the end parts 358 lies adjacent to the handle (and for example adjacent to the spacing elements 134 seen in Fig.2) and the other end part 350 lies at the end of the panel opposed to the hinge. The pressing parts 350 can therefore seal the whole periphery of the gap between the panels and prevent or limit the escape of air from that gap.

It will be understood that the side parts 354,356 of the pressing element 350 engage the hair during use whereas the end parts 358 do not. The primary function of the side parts 354,356 is to press the hair and the control of the escape of hot air is a secondary function, whereas the only function of the end parts 358 is to control the escape of hot air. The rigidity of the side parts 354,356 can be different to that of the end parts 358 if it is desired to take account of the different functions of those parts.

It will be observed that Figs.9, 12 and 13 only show the first apertures in the first panel, but it will be understood that practical embodiments according to the first aspect of the invention will have second apertures in the second panel also.

Figs.16-18 show an embodiment of hair styling device 510 according to the second aspect of the invention. Many of the components and features of the device 510 are shared with the earlier devices including in particular the device 110 and are not repeated.

One significant difference is that the first panel 514 is movably mounted to the first arm 512a and the second panel 516 is movably mounted to the second arm 512b. The movement of each panel relative to its arm is in the direction towards and away from the other panel, i.e. towards and away from the top of the page as viewed in Fig.17. The movement of each panel relative to its arm is small, in this embodiment approx. 2.0 mm, but in other embodiments is approx. 1 ,5mm and in yet other embodiments is approx. 1 .0 mm.

The first panel 514 is biased towards the second panel 516 by a resilient biasing element 560a which is mounted to the first arm 512a. The second panel 516 is biased towards the first panel 514 by a resilient biasing element 560b which is mounted to the second arm 512b. The biasing elements 560a, b are shown in dashed outline in Figs.16 and 17 as they are not visible in the assembled device and in this embodiment are identical components.

Each of the biasing elements 560a, b comprises a pair of hollow dome structures 562 interconnected by a link 564. The biasing elements 560a, b are made of rubber but in other embodiments are made from other resilient materials. The structure of the hollow domes 562, and the material from which they are made, allow the domes to deform under pressure and to return to the form shown when the pressure is relieved.

The top of each dome 562 engages the underside of a panel 514,516 respectively. It will be seen that the domes 562 are spaced along the panels to provide a substantially balanced force at each end of the panels. Also, the domes are of elongated hemispherical form and are specifically elongated across the width of the panels 514,516 and extend by a substantially equal distance to either side of the centreline of the panels and provide a substantially balanced force across the width of the panels.

It will be understood that the structure of the biasing elements 560a, b can vary significantly from that shown in the drawings, and any suitable material can be used, without departing from the second aspect of the invention. For example, it is not necessary that the biasing elements are the same for both panels, it is not necessary that the biasing elements have similar forms at each end of the panels (nor that those forms are linked together), and it is not necessary that the biasing elements extend across the centreline of the panels.

In embodiments which have apertures in the first and second panels, the biasing elements 560a, b are structured and located so that they do not block any of the apertures. The first panel 514 carries two magnets 534a which are shown in dashed outline because they are not visible in the assembled device. One of the magnets 534a is located adjacent to the hinge end of the first panel 514 and the other magnet 534a is located adjacent to the free end of the first panel 514. Similarly, the second panel 516 carries two magnets 534b which are also shown in dashed outline. One magnet 534b is located adjacent to the hinge end of the second panel 516 and the other magnet 534b is located adjacent to the free end of the second panel 516. The magnets 534a and 534b at each end of the panels 514,516 are aligned and are close together in the closed condition as shown.

It is arranged that each pair of aligned magnets 534a and 534b are in opposition. Accordingly, as the arms 512a, b are moved to their closed condition as shown in Figs.16 and 17 the magnets repel. It is arranged that the force of repulsion is sufficient to partially deform the biasing elements 560a, b whereby the panels 514,516 are spaced apart by the magnets 534a, b as the arms 512a,b move to the closed condition. As above stated, in this embodiment each panel 514,516 can move by approx. 2 mm relative to its arm 512a, 512b respectively. It is arranged that the force of repulsion when the arms are in the closed condition is not sufficient to fully deform the biasing elements so that in the closed condition the panels 514,516 are spaced apart by a (minimum) distance determined by the balance of the repulsive force of the magnets 534a, b and the resilient bias of the elements 560a, b.

In this embodiment it is arranged that when the arms 512a,b are pressed fully together the balance of forces will maintain a (minimum) separation of approx. 1 mm between the panels 514,516.

It will be understood that when a section of hair which is thicker than the minimum spacing is introduced between the panels it will affect the balance of forces and the panels 514,516 will move further apart. Allowing the panels 514,516 to “float” in this way ensures that the spacing between the panels is determined for each section of hair and the spacing will be relatively small for a thin section of hair and relatively large for a thick section of hair. A similar tension can therefore be applied to each section of hair somewhat regardless of the thickness of the section of hair.

It will be seen from Fig.17 in particular that the magnets 534a, b extend across a large proportion of the width of the panels 514,516 and this is primarily to minimise or avoid any lateral force acting upon the panels which could cause relative lateral movement between the panels 514 and 516 (i.e. to the left or right as viewed in Fig.17). It will be understood that in embodiments having corrugated panels lateral movement is not desired because the spacing between the panels would be reduced at some parts of the panels and increased at other parts.

Mounting a pair of opposing magnets 534a, b adjacent to each end of the panels allows the spacing between the panels in the closed condition to be uniform along the length of the panels 514,516. Also, extending the magnets 534a, b by substantially the same distance to either side of the centreline of the panels enables a substantially equal force of repulsion across the panels and allows the spacing between the panels in the closed condition to be uniform across the panels 514,516. It will be understood that the desired uniform spacing could also be achieved with multiple magnets (perhaps smaller than the magnets 534a, b) distributed along and across the panels. Fig.18 shows a carrier 564 for a panel 514,516. An identical carrier 564 is rigidly mounted to each of the arms 512a,b but the following description refers to the carrier 564 of the arm 512b since the orientation of the carrier in Fig.18 most-closely matches that of the arm 512b of Fig.16.

The panel 516 is movably mounted to the carrier 564, the carrier defining the limited range of movement (in this embodiment approx. 2 mm) of the panel 516 relative to the arm 512b. Specifically, an end part of the panel 516 projects through an opening 566 adjacent to the end of the carrier 564 (and another end part of the panel 516 projects through an identical opening at the other end of the carrier 564). Downwards movement of the panel 516 (in the orientation of Figs. 16-18) is limited by engagement of a part of the panel with the rigid beam 568.

Though not shown in Fig.18, the biasing element 560b is mounted to the carrier 564, and is located between the panel 516 and the base 570 of the carrier. Upwards movement of the panel 516 is opposed by the biasing element 560b.

It will be seen that Fig.18 includes a representation of the magnets 534b. Notwithstanding that the magnets 534b are carried by the panel 516 which is not present in Fig.18, the magnets 534b are represented so as to clarify their location in relation to the carrier 564 when the panel is present.

Figs.16-18 do not show any apertures in the panels. It will be understood that embodiments according only to the second aspect of the invention may not utilise air flow and can have continuous panels. Such embodiments will benefit from the magnetic spacing elements and may otherwise comprise one or other of the known prior art hair straighteners and/or hair styling devices.

Fig.17 shows that the panels 514 and 516 are corrugated, ideally similarly to the earlier devices with corrugated panels. This is, however, another optional feature for the invention according to the second aspect.

Hair styling devices according to the first and second aspects of the invention will have corrugated panels and also apertures in one panel for the passage of air towards the hair and apertures in the other panel for exhausting that air.

Figs.16-18 also do not show pressing parts at the side edges of the panels but pressing elements similar to those of Figs. 14 or 15 could be incorporated if desired. Also, the first panel 514 (and similarly the second panel 516) can be directly heated if desired, most suitably by a separate secondary heating element or elements (not shown).

It will be understood that the device 510 can incorporate structural spacing elements to determine the closed condition of the arms 512a,b, for example structural spacing elements such as the elements 134 of Fig.2. The movable panels, the resilient biasing of the panels, and the opposing magnets, together define the closed condition for the panels.

Claims

1. A hair styling device comprising: a first panel; a second panel, the second panel being movable relative to the first panel; the device having an open condition in which the first and second panels are spaced apart by a first distance, and a closed condition in which the first and second panels are spaced apart by a second distance, the second distance being greater than zero and smaller than the first distance, the first and second panels facing one another in the closed condition; an electric motor; an impeller; an electric heating element; an air flow channel, at least a part of the impeller and at least a part of the heating element being in the air flow channel; the first panel having a number of first apertures, the first apertures being in communication with the air flow channel; the second panel having a number of second apertures; an exhaust channel in communication with the second apertures, the first and second panels being corrugated with peak(s) and trough(s) of the first panel facing corresponding trough(s) and peak(s) respectively of the second panel.

2. The hair styling device according to claim 1 in which the first and second panels in their closed condition are spaced apart by a distance of at least approximately 0.2 mm.

3. The hair styling device according to claim 1 or claim 2 in which the spacing between the first and second panels in the closed condition is adjustable.

4. The hair styling device according to any one of claims 1-3 having a secondary heat source for at least one of the first and second panels.

5. The hair styling device according to claim 4 in which the secondary heat source is a ceramic heating element.

6. The hair styling device according to claim 4 or claim 5 in which the first and second panels are thermally conductive, and in which the secondary heating source is an electrical heating element located at an edge of the first and/or second panel.

7. The hair styling device according to claim 4 in which the secondary heat source is at least one infra-red radiator.

8. The hair styling device according to any one of claims 1-7 in which the exhaust channel comprises one or more openings through which the air can pass out of the device.

9. The hair styling device according to any one of claims 1 -8 having an exhaust impeller in the exhaust channel.

10. The hair styling device according to any one of claims 1-9 in which the combined cross- sectional area of the second apertures is at least as large as the combined cross-sectional area of the first apertures.

11. The hair styling device according to any one of claims 1-10 in which the first apertures each have a size, shape and position and the second apertures each have a size, shape and position, and in which the size, shape and position of each second aperture match the size, shape and position of a respective first aperture.

12. The hair styling device according to any one of claims 1-11 in which the cross-sectional area of the exhaust channel is at least as large as the combined cross-sectional area of the second apertures.

13. The hair styling device according to any one of claims 1-12 in which the first panel is mounted to a first arm in which the second panel is mounted to a second arm.

14. The hair styling device according to claim 13 in which the first and second arms are hinged together at ends opposed to the panels.

15. The hair styling device according to claim 13 or claim 14 in which the air flow channel is located in the first arm and in which the first panel has a peak with a peak wavelength and a peak amplitude and a trough with a trough wavelength and a trough amplitude, the peak wavelength and/or peak amplitude being larger than the trough wavelength and/or trough amplitude respectively whereby to increase the cross-sectional area of the air flow channel.

16. The hair styling device according to any one of claims 13-15 in which the first panel is movably mounted to the first arm.

17. The hair styling device according to any one of claims 13-16 having at least one spacing element to maintain the desired spacing between the first and second panels in the closed condition.

18. The hair styling device according to claim 17 having at least one structural spacing element.

19. The hair styling device according to claim 17 or claim 18 having a magnetic spacing element comprising a first magnet mounted to the first panel and a second magnet carried by the second arm, the first and second magnets being arranged to repel each other when the first and second arms are in the closed condition.

20. The hair styling device according to claim 19 in which the second panel is movably mounted to the second arm, and in which the second magnet is mounted to the second panel.

21. The hair styling device according to claim 19 or claim 20 in which the first arm has a first resilient biasing element which biases the first panel towards the second panel.

22. The hair styling device according to any one of claims 18-21 in which a first spacing element is located adjacent to an end of the first and second panels and a second spacing element is located adjacent to an opposing end of the first and second panels.

23. The hair styling device according to any one of claims 1 -22 in which at least one pressing element is located adjacent to a side edge of the first panel.

24. The hair styling device according to claim 23 in which the pressing element is approx. 2 mm wide.

25. The hair styling device according to claim 23 or claim 24 in which the pressing element acts to seal at least a part of a gap between the first and second panels in the closed condition.