U.S. patent application number 12/333787 was filed with the patent office on 2009-07-02 for hair curling system.
Invention is credited to Israel Harry Zimmerman.
Application Number | 20090165811 12/333787 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 40796625 |
Filed Date | 2009-07-02 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090165811 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Zimmerman; Israel Harry |
July 2, 2009 |
HAIR CURLING SYSTEM
Abstract
A hair curling system includes a base heating unit, a hair
roller, and a hair cover. The base heating unit generates and
transports steam (or another medium) to the hair roller for heating
and moisturizing the roller. The steam medium carries a separate
hair treatment composition for treating the hair. The steam medium
and the hair treatment composition are transferred to hair wound on
the hair roller and covered by the hair cover. The transfer takes
place within a thermally quarantined zone between the hair roller
and the hair cover. An optional temperature control system may be
provided for independently heating or cooling the hair cover to a
temperature that provides a desired temperature gradient between
the hair roller and the hair cover. One or more of an optional
ionizer, crystal or mineral unit or material may also be provided
to further influence the hair treatment.
Inventors: |
Zimmerman; Israel Harry;
(Los Angeles, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
WALTER W. DUFT;LAW OFFICES OF WALTER W. DUFT
8616 MAIN ST, SUITE 2
WILLIAMSVILLE
NY
14221
US
|
Family ID: |
40796625 |
Appl. No.: |
12/333787 |
Filed: |
December 12, 2008 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61013331 |
Dec 13, 2007 |
|
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|
Current U.S.
Class: |
132/203 ;
132/220; 132/228; 219/222 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A45D 6/00 20130101; A45D
2200/205 20130101; A45D 7/06 20130101; A45D 2001/008 20130101; A45D
2/362 20130101; A45D 2200/202 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
132/203 ;
132/228; 132/220; 219/222 |
International
Class: |
A45D 7/06 20060101
A45D007/06; A45D 6/00 20060101 A45D006/00; A45D 2/36 20060101
A45D002/36 |
Claims
1. A hair curling system, comprising: a base heating unit; a hair
roller; a hair cover; said base heating unit being constructed to
generate and transport a steam medium to said hair roller for
heating and moisturizing said roller; said steam medium carrying a
separate hair treatment composition for treating hair; and said
hair roller being configured to transfer said steam medium and said
hair treatment composition to hair wound on said hair roller and
covered by said hair cover, said transfer taking place within a
thermally quarantined zone between said hair roller and said hair
cover.
2. The hair curling system of claim 1 wherein said hair treatment
composition comprises one or more of a vitamin, mineral, nutrient,
anti-static composition or setting formula.
3. The hair curling system of claim 1 wherein said base heating
unit comprises a water heater unit adapted to generate said steam
medium, a steam-dispensing nipple above said water heater unit
adapted to detachably receive said hair roller, and a steam flow
pathway from said water to said steam-dispensing nipple.
4. The hair curling system of claim 3 further including a hair
treatment composition bullet disposed in said steam flow pathway,
said hair treatment composition bullet being adapted to dispense
said hair treatment composition as a vapor into said steam flow
path when heated by said steam medium from said water heater
unit.
5. The hair curling system of claim 6 wherein said base heating
unit comprises a holder for supporting said hair treatment
composition bullet and a piercing member for piercing a top cover
of said hair treatment composition bullet to release said vaporized
hair treatment composition into said steam flow pathway.
6. The hair curling system of claim 5 wherein said hair roller
comprises a central chamber adapted to receive said steam medium
and said hair treatment composition from said base heating unit,
one or more perforations adapted to vent said steam medium and said
hair treatment composition outwardly from said central chamber, and
a moisture absorbent member covering said perforations and adapted
to receive and temporarily retain said steam medium and said hair
treatment composition.
7. The hair curling system of claim 1 wherein said base heating
unit further includes a hair cover temperature control system that
is adapted to selectively heat or cool said hair cover to a
temperature that is above or below ambient temperature to provide a
desired transfer of said steam medium and said hair treatment
composition from said hair roller to said hair, said transfer being
influenced by a temperature gradient between said hair roller and
said hair cover that affects the application of said hair treatment
composition to said hair.
8. The hair curler system of claim 7 wherein said hair cover
temperature control system comprises a hair cover-receiving chimney
disposed on said based heating unit and a temperature control
element on said chimney adapted to control a surface temperature of
said chimney.
9. The hair curler system of claim 8 wherein said hair cover has a
density that is selected to influence heating or cooling of said
hair cover.
10. The hair curler system of claim 1 wherein said base heating
unit further comprises one or more of an ionizer, crystal or
mineral unit or material.
11. A method of use for a hair curling system, comprising: a base
heating unit; a hair roller; a hair cover; said base heating unit
being constructed to generate and transport a steam medium to said
hair roller for heating and moisturizing said roller; said steam
medium carrying a separate hair treatment composition for treating
hair; and said hair roller being configured to transfer said steam
medium and said hair treatment composition to hair wound on said
hair roller and covered by said hair cover, said transfer taking
place within a thermally quarantined zone between said hair roller
and said hair cover; said method of use comprising: curling a
person's hair using a heated roller that has been heated and
steamed by said base heating unit and which delivers said steam
medium and said hair treatment composition to said hair; and said
hair being treated by said hair treatment composition being
deposited on said hair as said steam medium evaporates.
12. The method of claim 11 wherein said hair treatment composition
comprises one or more of a vitamin, mineral, nutrient, anti-static
composition or setting formula.
13. The method of claim 11 wherein said hair treatment composition
is provided by a hair treatment composition bullet disposed in a
steam flow pathway in said base heating unit.
14. The method of claim 11 wherein said hair curling system further
includes a hair cover temperature control system, and said method
further includes selectively heating or cooling said hair cover
independently of said hair roller using said hair cover temperature
control system, said hair cover being selectively heated or cooled
to a desired temperature that is above or below ambient temperature
to provide a desired transfer of said steam medium and said hair
treatment composition from said hair roller to said hair, said
transfer being influenced by a temperature gradient between said
hair roller and said hair cover that affects the application of
said hair treatment composition to said hair.
15. The method of claim 14 wherein said hair cover is heated to a
temperature that is above ambient temperature.
16. The method of claim 14 wherein said hair cover is cooled to a
temperature that is below ambient temperature.
17. A hair curler system, comprising: a base heating unit
comprising: a base; a main body on said base; a top body on said
main body; a water tank in said top body; a water heater unit
adapted to heat water in said water tank to generate steam; a steam
nozzle unit on said top body having a steam-dispensing nipple
configured to detachably receive a hair curler; a steam flow
pathway configured to deliver said steam generated by said water
heater to said steam-dispensing nipple; a holder for supporting a
hair treatment composition bullet in said steam flow pathway to
release a vaporized hair treatment composition into said steam flow
pathway; a hair roller configured to attach to said
steam-dispensing nipple and receive said steam and said hair
treatment composition; a hair cover; said hair roller being
configured to transfer said steam and said hair treatment
composition to hair wound on said hair roller and covered by said
hair cover, said transfer taking place within a thermally
quarantined zone between said hair roller and said hair cover.
18. The hair curling system of claim 17 wherein there are at least
two steam-dispensing nipples on said steam nozzle unit.
19. The hair curling system of claim 17 wherein a bottom side of
said steam nozzle unit carries a piercing member for piercing a top
cover of said hair treatment composition bullet, and wherein said
steam-dispensing nipple is mounted on a top side of said steam
nozzle unit.
20. The hair curling system of claim 19 wherein said steam nozzle
unit is pivotably mounted to said body for pivoting between and
open position and a closed position, and wherein said piercing
member pierces said top cover of said hair treatment composition
bullet when said steam nozzle unit is pivoted to a closed
position.
21. The hair curling system of claim 17 wherein said hair roller
comprises a central chamber adapted to receive said steam and said
hair treatment composition from said steam-dispensing nipple, one
or more perforations adapted to vent said steam and said hair
treatment composition outwardly from said central chamber, and a
moisture absorbent foam member covering said perforations and
adapted to receive said steam and said hair treatment
composition.
22. The hair curling system of claim 17 wherein said base heating
unit further comprises a hair cover-receiving chimney disposed on
said base, said chimney having a temperature control element
adapted to control a temperature of said hair cover when mounted on
said chimney, said hair cover temperature being controllable
independently of a hair roller attached to said steam-dispensing
nipple in order to heat or cool said hair cover to a temperature
the provides a desired transfer of said steam and said hair
treatment composition from said hair roller to said hair, said
transfer being influenced by a temperature gradient between said
hair roller and said hair cover that affects the application of
said hair treatment composition to said hair.
23. A hair curling system, comprising: a base heating unit; a hair
roller; a temperature gradient control member configured to mount
to said hair roller or to hair wound on said hair roller; said base
heating unit being constructed to generate and transport a heated
medium to said hair roller for heating said roller; said heated
medium carrying a separate hair treatment composition for treating
hair; said hair roller being configured to transfer said heated
medium and said hair treatment composition to said hair on said
hair roller; and said transfer of said heated medium and said hair
treatment composition to said hair being influenced by a
temperature gradient maintained between said hair roller and said
temperature gradient control member that affects the application of
said hair treatment composition to said hair.
24. A hair curling system, comprising: a base heating unit; a hair
roller; a hair cover; a roller heating system in said base heating
unit; and one or more of: a hair treatment composition delivery
system adapted to deliver a hair treatment composition to said hair
roller; a hair cover heating and/or cooling system in said base
heating unit that is independent of said roller heating system; and
an ionizer, crystal or mineral unit or material.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C.
119(e) of the filing date of U.S. Provisional Patent Application
Ser. No. 61/013,331 filed on Dec. 13, 2007 and entitled "Hair
Curling System." The entire contents of said Application Ser. No.
61/013,331 are hereby incorporated herein by this reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention relates to hair styling apparatus.
More particularly, the invention concerns hair curling devices.
[0004] 2. Description of the Prior Art
[0005] Hair curling products use heat to form curls in the hair.
Some units use electric resistant heaters, others use hot steam,
some make use of a microwave oven, and still others use ceramic
heaters. This includes curling irons having self-contained heat
sources as well as curlers that are heated by a separate heat
source and then rolled into the hair. Regardless of what form of
heat generator is used, most curling devices work under the same
premise in that they radiate heat out in a unidirectional vector
away from the heating tool (curler) that is ultimately placed in
the hair. In particular, a heat source is used to heat the curler,
the curler is placed in the hair, and then the curler radiates heat
outwardly. The heat is ultimately conducted into the hair, with the
objective being the retention of the rounded curler shape remaining
with the hair once the curler is removed.
[0006] A few hair curling products use heated clips in order to
provide a heat source on the outside of the hair as well as on the
inside. However, the clips are heated by mounting them to the
curlers while the curlers are themselves being heated by a heat
source. The clips thus receive heat indirectly by heat transfer
through the curlers. This may not sufficiently heat the clips,
particularly if the user is in a hurry and does not wait for the
clips to be heated to the same temperature as the curlers. Still
other products may heat the clip without it first being placed over
the roller, but the clip still shares the same heating medium as
the roller so that the heat being infused into both elements always
raises them to the same general temperature.
[0007] Using hot curlers and putting unusually high temperatures
against the hair is notoriously bad organically for the structure
of the hair, and almost always causes some type of ancillary damage
to the hair. There are numerous products that have been designed
specifically to try and counteract these detrimental effects, such
as vitamins, enriched therapeutic agents, conditioners and other
hair protection compositions. Although the chemistry behind some of
these products may be useful, there has always been an issue
regarding how to effectively apply the supplemental aids to the
hair. If such a composition is put on prior to application of the
hair curler, the composition may alter the natural density of the
hair and thus have an adverse effect on the effectiveness of the
curling process. On the other hand, if the composition is applied
after the curlers are put in, one may be presented with a condition
where some areas of the hair have been treated with the composition
and other areas have not. This is because the portion of the hair
that would be exposed and could be affected and reached would be
physically limited due to the presence of the curlers. Moreover,
the composition would be of limited effectiveness if applied after
the application of heat because substantial damage may have already
been done when the hair was exposed to the heated environment. In
addition, present techniques only allow for general and surface
application of hair products, and do not provide an effective means
for even distribution or deep penetration throughout the hair or
the ability to substantially and consistently apply such products
to the hair ends.
[0008] It is to improvements in the foregoing field that the
present invention is directed. In particular, applicant proposes a
hair curling system that improves on the manner in which heat and
moisture is applied to the hair during the curling process, and
which may further optimize the delivery of hair protection and
enrichment compositions to areas of the hair that are subject to
the curling process.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] A hair curling system includes a base heating unit, a hair
roller, and a hair cover. The base heating unit is constructed to
generate and transport a steam medium to the hair roller for
heating and moisturizing the roller. The steam medium carries a
separate hair treatment composition for treating the hair. The hair
roller is configured to transfer the steam medium and the hair
treatment composition to hair wound on the hair roller and covered
by the hair cover. The transfer of the steam medium and the hair
treatment composition to the hair takes place within a thermally
quarantined zone between the hair roller and the hair cover.
[0010] According to an alternative implementation, the hair curling
system may optionally include a temperature control system for the
hair cover. The temperature control system allows the hair cover to
be independently heated or cooled to a temperature that provides a
desired flow of steam and hair treatment composition from the hair
roller to the hair. The application of the steam medium and the
hair treatment composition to the hair may thus be influenced by a
temperature gradient between the hair roller and the hair
cover.
[0011] According to a further alternative implementation, the hair
curling system may optionally include one or more of an ionizer
unit or material, a crystal unit or material, or a mineral unit or
material for further influencing treatment of the hair.
[0012] According to a still further alternative implementation, a
heating medium other than steam may be used to deliver the hair
treatment composition to the hair.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0013] The foregoing and other features and advantages of the
invention will be apparent from the following more particular
description of an example embodiment, as illustrated in the
accompanying Drawings, in which:
[0014] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an example hair curling
system;
[0015] FIG. 2 is another perspective view of the hair curling
system of claim 1;
[0016] FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the hair curling
system of claim 1;
[0017] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a main body of the hair
curling system of claim 1;
[0018] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a base of the hair curling
system of claim 1;
[0019] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a heater housing of the hair
curling system of claim 1;
[0020] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a heating element of the
hair curling system of claim 1;
[0021] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a top body of the hair
curling system of claim 1;
[0022] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a bullet holder of the hair
curling system of claim 1;
[0023] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a steam nozzle unit of the
hair curling system of claim 1;
[0024] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a foil paper puncture
mechanism of the hair curling system of claim 1;
[0025] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the hair curling system
of claim 1 taken along line 12-12 in FIG. 1;
[0026] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the hair curling system
of claim 1 taken along line 13-13 in FIG. 1;
[0027] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of the hair curling system
of claim 1 taken along line 14-14 in FIG. 1;
[0028] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of an ionizer or crystal or
mineral unit or material of the hair curling system of claim 1;
[0029] FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional centerline view of a hair
roller of the hair curling system of claim 1;
[0030] FIG. 17 is an exploded perspective view of a hair roller of
FIG. 16;
[0031] FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional centerline view of the hair
roller of FIG. 16 mounted on the steam nozzle unit of FIG. 10;
[0032] FIG. 19 is an exploded perspective view of a hair
cover-receiving chimney of the hair curling system of claim 1;
[0033] FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional centerline view of the chimney
taken along line 20-20 in FIG. 19;
[0034] FIG. 21 is a bottom view of the chimney of FIG. 19; and
[0035] FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a hair cover of the hair
curling system of claim 1.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENT
A. Introduction
[0036] The hair curling system disclosed herein provides the
ability to introduce a hair treatment composition such as vitamins,
nutrients, anti-static compositions, setting formulas and other
materials in a vapor state into a quarantined environment so that a
user's hair can be simultaneously curled and treated. The hair
curler system is designed to insure that the composition does not
simply pass through the hair and escape into the ambient air.
Instead, the composition evaporates and moves through the hair
within a thermally quarantined zone provided by two opposing
physical media (a roller and a hair cover) so that it has a chance
to implant on the hair fibers, including the hard-to-reach hair
fiber ends, and remain on the hair once the excess water or fluid
slowly evaporates out.
[0037] In another aspect, the disclosed hair curling system allows
the hair roller and hair cover to have separate and independent
inherent temperature characteristics with thermal communication
between the two components. Manipulating the temperature of one
component will have a direct effect on the other as well as on the
thermally quarantined zone therebetween. By employing two
independent temperature influencing components with a controllable
temperature gradient therebetween, the user can influence the
thermally quarantined zone within the boundary of the components.
More particularly, the disclosed hair curling system provides the
ability to curl a user's hair using a controlled application of
heat, or heat and vapor, or heat on the hair roller side of the
thermally quarantined zone, and by using heating, cooling or
ambient temperature on the hair cover side of the zone. The curling
system thus allows a user to influence and control the rate of heat
and vapor dissipation and the intensity of directional flow of heat
and vapor between the two boundaries of the zone. This affords the
user a more precise, predictable hair styling experience that
results in a healthier environment for the hair with superior
results, and further allows for a tailored environment to match
hair thickness and hair composition more precisely.
[0038] In a further aspect, the disclosed hair curling system
includes an ionizer unit or material, or a crystal/mineral unit or
material comprising electrically excited piezoelectric or
pyroelectric crystals or minerals, or non-electrically excited
natural crystals or minerals, that emit ionic or thermal radiation
to further condition the hair. The ionizer unit generates negative
ions that are carried by the curler heating medium (e.g., heated
air, steam and/or vapor) to the hair. The negative ions attach to
positively charged hair to lock in moisture, add volume, improve
luster, reduce flyaway and frizzy hair, and eliminate smoke or
other environmental odor. In particular, the hair
composition-enriched vapor becomes charged as a result of the ionic
infusion resulting in a Coulombic interatomic bond between the
opposite charged ions in the hair and the enriched vapor. The
crystal/mineral unit acts as an ionizer by generating negative ions
and also emits infrared heat and ions to help heat the rollers.
B. Example Embodiment
[0039] Turning now to the drawing figures, an example embodiment of
the disclosed hair curling system is identified by reference number
2 in FIGS. 1 and 2. In the illustrated embodiment, which is shown
by way of example only and not by way of limitation, the hair
curling system 2 includes a base heating unit 4, a pair of hair
treatment bullets 6 (only one is depicted), a pair of
steam-dispensing nipples 8, a pair of hair rollers 10, a pair of
independent hair cover-receiving chimneys 12, and a pair of hair
covers 14 for covering hair that is wound around the hair rollers
to create a thermally quarantined curling zone. Except as other
indicated below, the various components of the hair curling system
2 can be made from any suitable material, such as rigid plastic or
the like.
[0040] 1. Base Heating Unit:
[0041] The base heating unit 4 provides a heat source for heating
(via steam, vapor, air, etc.) the hair rollers 10. The base heating
unit 4 is also capable of separately and independently heating (or
optionally chilling) the hair covers 14. As shown in FIG. 3, the
base heating unit 4 includes a main body 20, a base 22, a water
heater housing 24 and a water heater 26 (collectively providing one
possible embodiment of a water heater unit 28), a top body 30, a
bullet holder 32, a steam nozzle unit 34, and a pair of foil paper
puncture mechanisms 36.
[0042] As can be seen in FIG. 4, the main body 20 includes a water
tank 20A having a fill port 20B and a drain port 20C. As shown in
FIGS. 1 and 2, the drain port 20C can be plugged with a clear
plastic member 38 that allows a user to monitor the water level
within the water tank 20A. The main body 20 further includes a pair
of chimney chambers 20D for supporting the hair cover-receiving
chimneys 12. A front switch panel 20E carries a switching unit 40
for controlling the water heater unit 28 and the chimneys 12. The
switching unit 40 may be conventional implemented and will not be
described further herein. Cylindrical guide posts 20F (only one is
shown) extend from the bottom of the main body 20 to help align and
connect it to the base 22. Cylindrical channels 20G (only five are
shown) extend from the bottom of the main body 20 to assist in
mounting the chimneys 12 (see description of FIGS. 19-21 below). A
closed, V-shaped vertical channel 20H may formed at a central
location on the water tank 20A to carry electrical connectors. As
can be seen in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 13, the channel 20H
is closed by a top wall that includes a small electrical connector
feed through 20I. As can also be seen in FIG. 13, the interior of
the channel 20H is isolated (for safety reasons) from the water
holding portion of the water tank 20A. If desired, a lower well 20I
may be provided at the bottom of the water tank 20A to increase
water carrying capacity. Additional cross-sectional views of the
main body are provided in FIGS. 12 and 14.
[0043] As can be seen in FIG. 5, the base 22 conforms to the shape
of the lower periphery of the main body 20, and may be connected
thereto in any suitable fashion, such as by gluing, welding or
fastening. Cross-sectional views of this connection 20/22 are
provided in FIGS. 12-14. The base 22 includes support structure
elements 22A for supporting the weight of the water tank 20A, and a
power cord aperture 22B. The power cord and its connections to the
switching unit 40 of the main body 20 are not shown insofar as
these items may be conventionally implemented. The power cord is
connectable to an electrical power source, such as a standard 110
volt wall outlet. Post-receiving apertures 22C (only two are shown)
are provided on the base 22 to receive the guide posts 20F of the
main body 20.
[0044] As can be seen in FIG. 6, the water heater housing 24 is
configured to be received within the water tank 20A of the main
body 20. It includes an upper chamber 24A and a lower chamber 24B.
As can be seen in the cross-sectional view of FIGS. 12-14, the top
periphery of the upper chamber 24A abuts the underside of the top
body 30, and may be attached thereto if desired. The lower chamber
24B is provided with spacers 24C (only four are shown) that rest on
the bottom of the lower well 20I of the main body's water tank 20A.
The spacers may be attached to the bottom of the lower well 20I by
any suitable means of attachment, including adhesive bonding,
welding, fasteners, etc. The spacers create a small gap between the
bottom of the lower chamber 24B and bottom of the lower well 20I.
As can be seen in the cross-sectional view of FIGS. 12 and 14, the
bottom of the lower chamber 24B is vented by two ports 24D. This
allows water to meter into the water heater housing 24 for heating
by the water heater 26 due to the lower chamber 24B being submerged
in the water held by the water tank 20A.
[0045] As can be seen in FIG. 7, and as further illustrated in the
cross-sectional views of FIGS. 12-14, the water heater 26 is
configured to be received within the lower chamber 24B of the
heater housing 24. The water heater 26 heats the water that meters
in from the water tank 20 via the heater housing's vent ports 24D,
turning it into steam. The steam rises out of the top of lower
chamber 24B and into the top body 30, as described in more detail
below. The water heater 26 comprises a body 26A made from aluminum
or other suitable heat conducting material. A PTC (positive
temperature coefficient) ceramic heating element 26B fits into a
central one of three slots 26C extending vertically through the
heating element. As can be seen in the cross-sectional views of
FIGS. 12 and 14, the water can flow into the interior of the two
outside slots 26C via the water heater housing's vent ports 24D.
The water volume in these slots is small so that the water is
rapidly heated and turned to steam. The heating element 26B
includes a pair of electrical connectors 26D that are connected to
the switching unit 40 on the main body 20 via electrical pathways
(not shown) that extend through the top body 30 and the main body
20 to the base 22.
[0046] As can be seen in FIG. 8, the top body 30 includes an upper
frame 30A whose lower peripheral edge mounts to the upper
peripheral edge of the main body 20 using a suitable attachment
technique, such as adhesive bonding, welding, fasteners, etc. This
connection 30/20 can be seen in the cross-sectional views of FIGS.
12-14. One side of the upper frame 30A defines a central V-shaped
channel 30B that matches the shape of the channel 20I on water tank
20A. The channel 30B carries electrical connectors (not shown) that
extend between the electrical connectors 26D of the heating element
26B and the base 22. A cross-sectional view of the channel 30B is
shown in FIG. 13.
[0047] As can be additionally seen in the cross-sectional views of
FIGS. 12 and 14, the top body 30 further includes a pair of bullet
receptacles 30C that descend into the upper chamber 24A of the
heater housing 24. The bullet receptacles 30C are formed with
openings 30D in the bottom that allow steam generated by the water
heater 26 to pass upwardly from the lower chamber 24B of the heater
housing 24. As best shown in FIG. 8, the upper portion of the top
body 30 includes a flat seat 30E that supports the bullet holder
32. The seat 30E is formed with a pair of apertures 30F. A hinge
area 30G is also provided on the top body 30 for pivotally
attaching the steam nozzle unit 34. A lock area 30H is provided for
locking the steam nozzle unit 34 in a closed position.
[0048] As can be seen in both FIG. 9, the bullet holder 32
comprises a frame with two openings 32A that align with the bullet
receptacles 30C in the top body 30. The openings 32A in the bullet
holder 32 are sized to receive and support the bullets 6 that
contain a hair treatment composition such as vitamins, nutrients,
anti-static compositions (e.g., vinegar-based formulations) setting
formulas, etc. When the bullets 6 are seated in the bullet holder
32, the top lip portion of each bullet engages the peripheral edge
of a respective bullet holder opening 32A. As can be seen in the
cross-sectional views of FIGS. 12 and 14, the remainder of each
bullet 6 extends into one of the bullet receptacles 30C in the top
body 30, but does not touch the bottom or sides of the receptacle.
Thus, there is room for the steam generated by the water heater 26
to flow upwardly and around the bullets 6. Four radial slots 32B
surround each opening 32A in the bullet holder 32 to allow the
steam to escape upwardly into the space above the bullet holder
that is closed by the steam nozzle unit 34. This enclosed area
allows the vaporized material of the bullets 6 to mix with the
steam that flows around the outside of the bullets.
[0049] As can be seen in FIG. 10, the steam nozzle unit 34 includes
a top body cover portion 34A that covers and encloses the space
above the bullet holder 32. The cover portion 34A carries the
steam-dispensing nipples 8 that were briefly mentioned described
above in connection with FIGS. 1 and 2. The steam nozzle unit 34
also includes a hinge 34B and a releasable lock tab 34C that allows
the steam nozzle unit to be pivotally mounted to the top body 30
and locked in position to act as a lid. The steam nozzle unit 34
further includes a pair of steam ports 34D that vent steam and
vaporized hair treatment composition upwardly from the underside of
the cover portion 34A through the steam-dispensing nipples 8
located on the top side of the cover portion. The steam-dispensing
nipples 8 are designed to receive the curlers 10 so that they can
be steamed and heated for curling hair.
[0050] As can be seen in FIG. 11, each paper foil piercing
mechanism 36 comprises a tubular puncture member 36A that is vented
with longitudinal steam escape slots 36B. The steam escape slots
36B allow steam that flows around the sides of the bullets 6 to
enter the steam nozzle unit's steam ports 34D and exit through the
steam-dispensing nipples 8. The upper end of the tubular puncture
member 36A is formed with a flange that mounts to underside of the
steam nozzle unit's cover portion 34A. Cross-sectional views of
this mounting arrangement are provided in FIGS. 12 and 14. The
lower end of the tubular puncture member 36A is pointed in order to
puncture the paper foil top of a bullet 6 when the steam nozzle
unit 34 is pivoted to its closed position. This puncturing can be
seen in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 12. As may be seen in the
cross-sectional views of FIGS. 12 and 14, a short tubular ring
member 34E on the steam nozzle unit 34 surrounds each of the foil
puncture mechanisms 36 to help guide the steam delivered from the
radial slots 32B of the bullet holder 32 to the steam escape slots
36B of the paper foil piercing mechanism 36. The ring members 34E
are slightly larger in diameter than the radial slots 32B in the
bullet holder 32 to form a collection chamber for the steam.
[0051] As previously stated, the steam will also heat the bullets
6, causing the hair treatment composition therein to vaporize and
flow upwardly through the steam escape slots 36B. The vaporized
hair treatment composition mixes with the steam flowing through the
steam ports 34D of the steam nozzle unit 34 to the curlers 10.
Thus, in the illustrated embodiment, the hair curling system 2 has
water in it that is exposed to the water heater unit 28 (comprising
the heater housing 24 and the heater 26), which heats a metered
amount of water received from the water tank 20A. This water then
turns into steam. Because the steam rises, it naturally moves up
through the unit to heat the bullets 6 and eventually mixes with
the vaporized bullet contents. The steam also works as a locomotion
aid in mixing with the vaporized bullet contents and helps disperse
the mixture evenly by impregnating the combined steam and hair
treatment composition into the hair rollers 10 through the
steam-dispensing nipples 8. The mixture acts as a gentle heating
agent for the hair and works in concert with the heated hair roller
10 and the hair cover 14 to help create a curl in the hair while
protecting the hair from damage (depending on the bullet
composition).
[0052] It should also be noted that the present disclosure
contemplates any source for heating that is capable of quickly
bringing water to a boil. Thus, as an alternative to the PTC
heating element 26B, other heating elements such as electrodes or
any resistive heater may also be used. As a further alternative, a
heater placed on the outside of the heater housing 24 could also be
used. Or, if desired, the heater housing 24 could be eliminated and
the entire water tank 20A could be heated. A heating medium other
than steam could also be used, such as a heated gas or
non-vaporized liquid.
[0053] 2. Hair Treatment Composition Bullet
[0054] The disclosed hair curling system 2 provides the ability to
evenly disperse vitamins, minerals, nutrients, anti-static
compositions (e.g., vinegar-based formulations), setting formulas
and other materials into the hair through the use of a vaporized
application during the curling process. By way of example, and not
by way of limitation, the following hair treatment compositions may
be used:
[0055] B-complex vitamins, vitamin E, vitamin C, vitamin A, niacin,
pantothenic acid (vitamin B5), beta-keratin, shea butter,
thickening agents such as Dow Corning RM2051 and Dow Corning 2502,
vinegar anti-static agents, biotin, and hair spray setting
formulas.
[0056] As discussed above, the hair treatment composition may be
contained in a segregated container such as the bullets 6. This
technique is convenient to use and offers better control and more
concentrated application then the hair treatment composition was
simply dispersed within the water of the tank. Each bullet 6 may be
formed as a small plastic container sealed with a foil paper
covering to maintain it's stability while being stored, but subject
to being ruptured with the foil paper puncture mechanism 36 for
ease of use when the bullet contents are needed. A container
similar to a single-use plastic coffee creamer is one example of
how the bullets could be constructed.
[0057] However, it should be pointed out that the disclosed hair
curler system 6 also contemplates a scenario where a hair treatment
composition may be added to the larger water supply within the
water tank 20A or the heater housing 24. Alternatively, any
required water or liquid may be contained within the bullet 6
itself so that there is no need to add any additional fluid to
create the necessary vapor/steam from a secondary source. Still
further, a solid wax-based composition could be placed in the
bullet receptacles 30C, where it would be melted and vaporized by
the steam.
[0058] In the disclosed embodiment, each bullet 6 has its own
bullet receptacle 30C in the base heating unit 4. Each bullet 6 is
strategically placed in one of the openings 32A of the bullet
holder 32 so that the generated steam will both heat the contents
of the bullet to the point of changing it into a vapor and also
bypass the bullet via the radial slots 32B and mix with the bullet
contents as they merge and pass through the steam-dispensing nipple
8 in the steam nozzle unit 34 and into the roller 10. It should
also be noted that while the disclosed embodiment contemplates the
underlining steam being used to heat the bullet 6, it would also be
possible to provide a dedicated heating unit used solely for
heating the bullet or utilizing a shared heating system other than
a hot steam system.
[0059] 3. Ionizing Unit/Material Or Crystal/Mineral
Unit/Material
[0060] As can be seen in FIG. 15, the top body 30 of the base
heating unit 4 may be formed with an open well 42 for receiving an
ionizing, crystal or mineral unit or material, as designated by
reference number 44. Although not shown, a corresponding opening
may be provided in the bullet holder 32 that sits on the top body
30. Electrical connections (not shown) may be provided in the well
42 to power the item 44. Alternatively, if the item 44 comprises
naturally emitting crystals, such a tourmaline crystals, electrical
connections are not required and ionic and/or thermal radiation
emissions may be generating using physical manipulation, such as by
application of heat (e.g., steam heat) or pressure. An ionizer unit
or material can be provided by any commercially available hair
dryer anion device of suitable size. The ionizer unit or material
will generate negative ions that are carried by the curler heating
medium (e.g., heated air, steam and/or vapor) to the hair. The
negative ions infuse into the hair composition-enriched vapor as
well as attach to positively charged hair to lock in moisture or
enriched vapor, add volume, improve luster, reduce flyaway and
frizzy hair, and eliminate smoke or other environmental odor. A
crystal/mineral unit or material may be provided by any
commercially available hair-care crystal unit of appropriate size.
A tourmaline crystal is an example of a crystal that is both
piezoelectric and pyroelectric and may be stimulated electrically
or by deformation due to heat or pressure to naturally emit ions or
infrared heat radiation. A crystal/mineral unit or material acts as
an ionizer by generating negative ions and also emits infrared heat
to help heat the rollers. The crystal/mineral unit or material may
be constructed as shown in FIG. 15 so as to receive electrical
stimulation. It may also be implemented as crystal chips or a
crystal powder that is mixed into a matrix made of plastic or other
material so that the crystal is part and parcel of the physical
medium. The crystal or mineral material may be strategically placed
within the base heating unit 4 or in the rollers 10 in such a way
that the vaporized steam makes contact with or has influence on the
crystal or mineral, which then releases the negative ions and
radiated heat into the vapor or hair.
[0061] 4. Hair Rollers
[0062] Turning now to FIG. 16, the hair rollers 10 represent one of
the boundaries defining the thermally quarantined zone that is
provided by the disclosed hair curling system 2. If desired, a
plurality of rollers 10 of different sizes may be provided. The
rollers 10 each include a center roller core 10A comprising a
perforated tube 10B having a central cylindrical chamber and a
circular flange 10C at each end. A sleeve 10D made of foam or other
porous substrate material is mounted on the roller core 10A.
[0063] Various construction techniques may be used to fabricate the
roller core 10A. For example, FIG. 17 illustrates that the roller
core 10A may be formed as a two-piece assembly that includes a
first core member 10E and a second core member 10F. The first core
member 10E comprises the perforated tube 10B and a first one of the
circular flanges 10C. The second core member 10F comprises a second
one of the circular flanges 10C and a short tubular stub 10G that
slides inside the free end of the perforated tube 10B and locks
thereto by way of a bayonet-type connection. The perforations of
the perforated tube 10B are formed as a perforation pattern that
may comprise two linear arrays of small holes disposed 180 degrees
apart from each other. Other relief cutouts that provide a release
path for the steam and vapor to travel through may also be
used.
[0064] As can be seen in FIG. 18, the roller core 10A is sized to
receive and thereby mount to one of the steam-dispensing nipples 8
on the steam nozzle unit 34. Attention is given for optimum heat
dissipation, which can be manipulated by, among other things,
choice of core material, density of material, specific shapes and
angles designed into the core, and the perforation pattern. In the
disclosed embodiment where steam is used as the energy/heat
generator for the roller, the roller comprises the hollow
perforated tube 10B. The perforated tube 10B is made from plastic
or other material that is capable of absorbing heat energy from the
steam, so that it continues to radiate heat even after it is
removed from the base unit.
[0065] As stated, the hair roller 10 is designed to sit snugly on
one of the steam-dispensing nipples 8 so that the hair
composition-enriched steam exiting through that nipple will be
directed through the hollow central chamber at the core of the
roller and out the internal perforations. From there, the enriched
steam and vapor will be metered out of the core in controlled
fashion by the perforation pattern. The perforation pattern is
designed so that some of the heated vapor is temporarily chambered
within the roller core 10A so that the core material remains hot.
The perforation pattern is further designed so that the heated
vapor ultimately exits the roller core 10A to embed into the porous
substrate (sleeve) 10D attached to the roller core, which is
eventually rolled onto the hair that is being treated and curled.
The roller 10 works in a cooperative relationship with the hair
cover 14 insofar as they are in thermal communication. It should be
noted that although steam is used as an energy source for heating
the roller core 10A, alternate methods of heating are contemplated
by this disclosure. A design that uses electric heat is one
example.
[0066] Also, although the disclosed hair curling system 2 uses hair
composition-enriched vapor delivered to the roller's porous
substrate 10D from an internal channel provided within the roller
core 10A, it could also be impregnated onto the foam by exterior
applications such as an enclosed vapor bath. Regardless of the
method of implanting the enriched vapor onto the porous substrate
10D, a heat-radiating core is a desirable component because it
defines a directional vector for moving the enriched vapor into the
hair.
[0067] 5. Heated Or Chilled Chimneys
[0068] As can be seen in FIGS. 1-2, the two hair cover-receiving
chimneys 12 are disposed on the base heating unit 4, outside of
where the water tank 20A is located. The chimneys 12 provide one
possible type of hair cover temperature control system designed to
either heat or chill the hair covers 14 (or both) independently of
the heater unit 28 used to produce the steam that heats the hair
rollers 10.
[0069] As can be seen in FIG. 19, each chimney 12 comprises a
generally tubular, dome-topped plastic chimney housing 12A.
Heating/cooling elements 12B are disposed on each side of the
chimney housing 12A, and are made from a thermally conductive
material such as metal (e.g., aluminum). Each heating/cooling
element 12B is substantially disposed inside the chimney housing
12A, but includes an outer cover-contacting portion 12C that
extends through a corresponding slot 12D in the chimney housing for
heating and/or cooling one of the hair covers 14.
[0070] As can be seen in FIGS. 20 and 21, the heating/cooling
elements 12B are in thermal contact with a temperature control unit
12E that is centrally disposed within the chimney housing 12A. The
temperature control unit 12E can be implemented using an electrical
heating unit (e.g., a PTC heater) and/or a cooling unit (e.g., a
Peltier cooling chip). The temperature control unit 12E may thus be
used to raise and/or lower the temperature of the heating/cooling
elements 12 relative to the ambient environment. As can be seen in
FIG. 20, the temperature control unit 12E has electrical connectors
12F that are connected to the switching unit 40 on the main body 20
via electrical connectors (not shown) that extend through the base
22 into the main body 20. As can be seen in each of FIGS. 19-21,
cylindrical posts 12G are provided on a flange 12H disposed on the
base of the chimney housing 12A. The posts 12G are received in the
corresponding cylindrical channels 20G on the main body 20 (see
FIG. 4) in order to mount the chimneys 12. Adhesive bonding or
welding may be used to secure the chimneys 12 in position.
[0071] The chimneys 12 are designed and positioned in such a way so
as to facilitate ease of movement in placing and removing the hair
covers 14 thereon. The chimneys 12 conduct heat or cold into the
hair covers 14 independently of the water heater unit 28 used to
heat the rollers 10. Moreover, the chimneys 12 may be heated or
cooled to any desired temperature, thus allowing the hair covers 14
to be heated or cooled to a temperature that is different from the
temperature of the hair rollers 10, and providing a user the
liberty of controlling the temperature gradient between hair
rollers and the hair covers. This allows the thermally quarantined
zone to be manipulated in a manner that produces the optimal flow
of heat from the heated hair rollers 10 into the hair disposed
between the hair rollers and the hair covers 14, with the latter
serving as temperature gradient control members.
[0072] If desired, a variable temperature control may be provided
on the switching unit 40 so that the user can adjust the
characteristics of the thermally quarantined zone. The variable
temperature control could be used to regulate the heating of the
rollers 10. A separate temperature control could be used to
regulate the temperature of the heating/cooling elements 12B in the
chimneys 12.
[0073] 6. Hair Covers
[0074] The heated or cooled hair covers 14 represent the outer
boundary of the thermally quarantined zone. The hair covers 14 are
designed to attach and detach easily from the hair cover-receiving
chimneys 12. They can be formed from plastic or other temperature
retaining material. As can be seen in FIG. 22, each hair cover 14
can be formed as a clip that includes a pair of curved clip halves
14A that are pivotally mounted at a pivot point 14B in a butterfly
configuration. The clip halves 14A form small handles 14C on one
side of the pivot point 14B while the remainder of the clip halves
are curved to form cover portions 14D that wrap around the hair
curlers 10 as well as the chimneys 12. Spring tension may be
provided at the pivot point 14B so that the hair covers 14 are
adjustable to different sized rollers. Thus, the hair covers 14
will have a snug fit regardless of the thickness or length of hair
so that heat can be transferred and communicated to the hair
through conductivity. Alternatively, single-element rigid hair
covers that do not adjust to the hair could also be used.
[0075] The hair covers 14 are designed to quickly absorb heat and
then retain the heat after they are removed from the heat source,
or alternatively, to be receptive to chilling and retaining a
cooling effect for a period of time. During use, by having the hair
covers 14 in thermal communication with the radiated heat extending
out from the heated rollers 10, the user can control (by adjusting
the heat gradient between the two) the rate of cooling as well as
the direction and movement of the vapor sandwiched between the two
boundaries of the thermally quarantined zone. In addition, having a
hair cover 14 whose temperature characteristic can be controlled by
the user also allows for an increase in the footprint and intensity
of heat that is actually affecting the hair, which is a critical
component of hair styling. For example, if a user were to wrap
their hair around a standard curler, each successive layer of hair
would be receiving less and less heat that is radiating from the
curler. However, with the multidirectional radiation provided by
the disclosed hair curling system 2, the hair on the outside will
have a much more direct and intense heat applied resulting in
superior control and results. Conversely, for short thin hair, the
user may want to cool the hair quicker and move the vapor at a
different faster rate than an uninfluenced clip can provide. This
could be accomplished by exaggerating the temperature gradient
between the two boundaries by lowering the temperature of the clip
and increasing the gradient between the two.
[0076] 7. Thermally Quarantined Zone
[0077] The disclosed hair curling system 2 provides the ability to
create a controllable thermally quarantined zone, which is defined
by having two physical boundaries, the roller 10 and the hair cover
14, so that there is a predictable and beneficial effect on the
hair that is sandwiched in between. The hair composition-enriched
vapor composition within the thermally quarantined zone is
transferred into the hair when the hair is rolled around an
impregnated roller 10. In accordance with the laws of
thermodynamics, the thermal boundaries will have an effect on the
rate of vapor evaporation, escape and flow. The user can enrich
that vapor with the hair treatment composition, have the enriched
vapor slowly travel and implant into the hair fiber, and then have
pure water or the like slowly and under optimized controlled
circumstances evaporate away, leaving the hair treatment
composition implanted and dispersed within the hair. In addition to
providing control over the thermally quarantined zone, the
disclosed hair curling system 2 compensates for different
environmental conditions so that results become significantly more
consistent and predictable. Thus, the disclosed hair curling system
2 overcomes the fragility of existing apparatus that are expected
to operate among an infinite spectrum of hair thicknesses and hair
types. Such apparatus operate in environments where the
effectiveness of the curling effort is essentially held hostage to
the environmental conditions of the moment. Current hair curling
devices do not substantially compensate for a high humidity day, or
a cold room. Nor are they adjustable to persons with long or thin
hair. In effect, all current hair curling devices are designed to
operate with results that are a compromise due to the assumption of
a statistically average use environment. Such an environment exists
more in theory then in practicality. The disclosed hair curling
system 2 recognizes these realities and addresses them. Finally, an
ionizing mechanism may be provided by incorporating
piezoelectric/pyroelectric crystals into the rollers 10 and/or the
hair covers 14, allowing for even more control and effectiveness by
influencing electromagnetic charges and heat transfer within the
thermally quarantined zone so that there is more precise implanting
of the vapor and enrichment compounds into the hair fiber.
[0078] 8. Method of Use
[0079] The disclosed hair curling system 2 may be used to curl the
hair according to a novel method wherein (1) water is added to the
water tank 20A and the water heater unit 28 is activated to heat
the water so as to generate steam, (2) a bullet 6 containing a
selected hair treatment composition is optionally placed in one or
both of the bullet receptacles 30C, (3) an ionizer, crystal or
mineral unit or material 44 is optionally placed in the
corresponding open well 42 (or is otherwise incorporated in the
base heating unit 4), or one or both of the hair rollers 10 or the
hair covers 14, (4) a hair roller 10 is placed on one or both of
the steam-dispensing nipples 8 and heated with steam while being
infused with the vaporized hair treatment composition provided by
the bullet 6, and/or with ions or radiant heat from the ionizer,
crystal or mineral unit or material 44. Separately, the hair cover
14 can be placed on one or both of the hair cover-receiving
chimneys 12 and independently heated or chilled to achieve a
desired temperature differential relative the hair roller 10 on
which it is to be mounted. Alternatively, the hair cover 14 can be
left at ambient temperature. The heated roller 10 is then removed
from one of the steam-dispensing nozzles 8 and rolled into the
hair. The heated, chilled or ambient temperature clip 14 is
thereafter removed from one of the chimneys 12 and clipped around
the outside of the rolled hair to retain it on the hair roller 10.
Additional rollers 10 and hair covers 14 may be added to the hair
in similar fashion.
[0080] Accordingly, a hair curling system has been disclosed. While
exemplary embodiments have been shown and described, it should be
apparent that many variations and alternative embodiments could be
implemented in accordance with the teachings herein. It is
understood, therefore, that the invention is not to be in any way
limited except in accordance with the spirit of the appended claims
and their equivalents.
* * * * *