U.S. patent application number 14/375098 was filed with the patent office on 2015-05-21 for hair brush for smoothing hair.
The applicant listed for this patent is Goody Products, Inc.. Invention is credited to Taft Vincent Jones, JR., Dametria D'Ann Mustin, Jacqueline Urda Reusche, Denise Lyn Silbert.
Application Number | 20150135455 14/375098 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 48874001 |
Filed Date | 2015-05-21 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150135455 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Reusche; Jacqueline Urda ;
et al. |
May 21, 2015 |
Hair Brush For Smoothing Hair
Abstract
In one example according to the teachings of the present
invention, a hair brush has a brush head with a working surface, a
plurality of monofilament bristles protruding from the working
surface of the brush head, and a microfiber material exposed on a
portion of the working surface of the brush head. In one example,
the hair brush can also have a plurality of bristle tufts
protruding from the working surface of the brush head. In one
example, the hair brush can also have a bristle carrier connected
to the brush head. The plurality of monofilament bristles can be
attached to the bristle carrier.
Inventors: |
Reusche; Jacqueline Urda;
(Cumming, GA) ; Mustin; Dametria D'Ann; (Atlanta,
GA) ; Silbert; Denise Lyn; (Atlanta, GA) ;
Jones, JR.; Taft Vincent; (Ellenwood, GA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Goody Products, Inc. |
Atlanta |
GA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
48874001 |
Appl. No.: |
14/375098 |
Filed: |
January 28, 2013 |
PCT Filed: |
January 28, 2013 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/US13/23475 |
371 Date: |
July 28, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61591688 |
Jan 27, 2012 |
|
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|
Current U.S.
Class: |
15/160 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A46B 9/023 20130101;
A46B 9/06 20130101; A46B 9/065 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
15/160 |
International
Class: |
A46B 9/06 20060101
A46B009/06; A46B 9/02 20060101 A46B009/02 |
Claims
1. A hair brush comprising: a brush head having a working surface;
a plurality of monofilament bristles protruding from the working
surface of the brush head; and a microfiber material exposed on a
portion of the working surface of the brush head.
2. The hair brush according to claim 1, further comprising a
plurality of bristle tufts protruding from the working surface of
the brush head.
3. The hair brush according to claim 1, further comprising a
bristle carrier connected to the brush head, the plurality of
monofilament bristles attached to the bristle carrier.
4. The hair brush according to claim 1, further comprising: a
plurality of bristle tufts protruding from the working surface of
the brush head; and a bristle carrier connected to the brush head,
the plurality of monofilament bristles and the plurality of bristle
tufts attached to the bristle carrier.
5. The hair brush according to claim 4, wherein at least a portion
of the monofilament bristles and/or a portion of the bristle tufts
protrude through the microfiber material.
6. The hair brush according to claim 1, further comprising: a
bristle carrier connected to the brush head, the plurality of
monofilament bristles attached to the bristle carrier, wherein the
bristle carrier has a front side facing in the direction of the
working surface, a back side facing the brush head, and a plurality
of holes formed therethrough, each of the plurality of holes
extending through a support pod protruding from the back side.
7. The hair brush according to claim 1, further comprising a
plurality of bristle tufts protruding from the working surface of
the brush head, wherein a least a portion of the plurality of
bristle tufts is formed at least in part of boar bristles.
8. The hair brush according to claim 7, wherein each bristle of the
plurality of bristle tufts is formed as a strand of boar hair that
is bent in half to form two boar bristles.
9. The hair brush according to claim 1, further comprising a
plurality of bristle tufts protruding from the working surface of
the brush head, wherein at least some of the plurality of
monofilament bristles are closely adjacent corresponding tufts of
the plurality of bristle tufts.
10. The hair brush according to claim 1, wherein at least some of
the plurality of monofilament bristles is formed of a Nylon
material.
11. The hair brush according to claim 1, wherein at least some of
the plurality of monofilament bristles is an extruded Nylon
material with a free end dipped in a substance to form a ball on a
tip of the free end.
12. The hair brush according to claim 1, further comprising a
bristle carrier formed of a resilient, flexible material with a
perimeter edge which is joined to the brush head.
13. The hair brush according to claim 12, further comprising
support pods protruding from and spaced apart over a back side of
the bristle carrier, each support pod defining a bristle hole
through the bristle carrier.
14. The hair brush according to claim 13, wherein each of the
plurality of monofilament bristles is secured in a different one of
the support pods.
15. The hair brush according to claim 14, further comprising a
plurality of bristle tufts protruding from the working surface of
the brush head, wherein one or more of the plurality of bristle
tufts is secured in a common one of the support pods along with one
of the plurality of monofilament bristles.
16. The hair brush according to claim 12, further comprising a
plurality of bristle tufts protruding from the working surface of
the brush head, wherein the plurality of monofilament bristles is
secured in a first set of the support pods and the plurality of
bristle tufts is secured in a second set of the support pods
different from the first set.
17. The hair brush according to claim 1, wherein the brush head is
an oval or a rectangular shape defined by a perimeter and forming a
pair of opposed faces, one of which defines the working
surface.
18. The hair brush according to claim 1, wherein the brush head has
a generally cylindrical shape with a circumferential outer surface
defining the working surface.
19. The hair brush according to claim 1, further comprising a
handle connected to and extending from the brush head.
20. The hair brush according to claim 1, wherein the microfiber
material is a layer of microfiber cloth connected to a substantial
majority of the working surface.
21. The hair brush according to claim 1, further comprising a
bristle carrier coupled to the brush head, wherein the microfiber
material includes two or more microfiber material segments
connected to the bristle carrier on the working surface.
22. The hair brush according to claim 21, wherein each of the
microfiber material segments is spaced from the other of the
microfiber material segments.
23. The hair brush according to claim 21, wherein a ring secures a
perimeter edge of the bristle carrier to the brush head.
24. The hair brush according to claim 23, wherein the ring is
formed of a ceramic material or has a ceramic coating thereon.
Description
RELATED APPLICATION DATA
[0001] This patent is related to and claims priority benefit of
U.S. provisional application Ser. No. 61/591,688 filed Jan. 27,
2012 and entitled "Brush for Smoothing and Styling, and Methods of
Use and Manufacturing Thereof." The entire content of this prior
filed application is hereby incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND
[0002] 1. Field of the Disclosure
[0003] The present disclosure is generally directed to hair
brushes, and more particularly to a hair brush with characteristics
for smoothing hair during use of the brush.
[0004] 2. Description of Related Art
[0005] Hair brushes are well known in the art for styling and
simply combing a user's hair There are many known hair brushes
having a wide variety of styles, shapes, configurations, and
construction available in the marketplace. Most hair brushes
typically have a plurality of bristles protruding from a brushing
or working surface of a brush head. The typical brush employs only
a single type of bristle. The brush bristles are typically spaced
apart over the area of the brushing or working surface.
[0006] Hair smoothing has become a known consumer frustration
within the hair styling category. There are many types of styling
and cleaning products and additives that can be employed and
applied to the hair to help with smoothing frizzed, split, and
damaged hair. These products are often in liquid form and are wet
when applied to the user's hair. The hair can also be wet when such
hair cleaning and styling products are applied.
[0007] Hair smoothing has become a highly sought after feature. As
a result, some manufacturers have produced hairstyling implements,
such as hair brushes, and have made claims that these implements
can deliver smoother hair when used. However, there are very few
examples within this category of purported smoothing implements
that actually deliver demonstrably smoother hair. Some of these
products are configured to assist in the application of the
aforementioned wet goods and hair products that are designed or
intended to smooth the hair. The mechanical action at work in these
instances is the actual coating of the hair strands with a silicon
or similar substance that helps to mask the effects of damaged hair
cuticles.
[0008] There are a few products that are designed to specifically
address static. Static is believed in the industry to be a
contributing agent to hair frizz and, thus, a lack of smooth hair,
but it is known to only be one factor. The success of these known
implements and the attempts to provide hair styling implements,
such as hair brushes, that can smooth the hair of a user is quite
limited. The success of these implements also can vary widely,
depending on humidity or other environmental factors.
SUMMARY
[0009] In one example according to the teachings of the present
invention, a hair brush has a brush head with a working surface, a
plurality of monofilament bristles protruding from the working
surface of the brush head, and a microfiber material exposed on a
portion of the working surface of the brush head.
[0010] In one example, the hair brush can also have a plurality of
bristle tufts protruding from the working surface of the brush
head.
[0011] In one example, the hair brush can also have a bristle
carrier connected to the brush head. The plurality of monofilament
bristles can be attached to the bristle carrier.
[0012] In one example, the hair brush can also have a plurality of
bristle tufts protruding from the working surface of the brush head
and a bristle carrier connected to the brush head. The plurality of
monofilament bristles and the plurality of bristle tufts can be
attached to the bristle carrier.
[0013] In one example, at least a portion of the monofilament
bristles and/or a portion of the bristle tufts, if provided, can
protrude through the microfiber material.
[0014] In one example, the hair brush can also include a bristle
carrier connected to the brush head. The plurality of monofilament
bristles can be attached to the bristle carrier. The bristle
carrier can have a front side facing in the direction of the
working surface, a back side facing the brush head, and a plurality
of holes formed therethrough. Each of the plurality of holes can
extend through a support pod protruding from the back side.
[0015] In one example, the hair brush can also include a plurality
of bristle tufts protruding from the working surface of the brush
head. At least a least a portion of the plurality of bristle tufts
can be formed at least in part of boar bristles.
[0016] In one example, the hair brush can include a plurality of
bristle tufts protruding from the working surface of the brush
head. Each bristle of the plurality of bristle tufts can be formed
as a strand of boar hair that is bent in half to form two boar
bristles of the respective bristle tufts.
[0017] In one example, the hair brush can also include a plurality
of bristle tufts protruding from the working surface of the brush
head. At least some of the plurality of monofilament bristles can
be closely adjacent to corresponding tufts of the plurality of
bristle tufts.
[0018] In one example, at least some of the plurality of
monofilament bristles is formed of a Nylon material.
[0019] In one example, at least some of the plurality of
monofilament bristles is an extruded Nylon material with a free end
dipped in a substance to form a ball on a tip of the free end.
[0020] In one example, the hair brush can also include a bristle
carrier formed of a resilient, flexible material with a perimeter
edge which is joined to the brush head.
[0021] In one example, the hair brush can also include support pods
protruding from and spaced apart over a back side of a bristle
carrier joined to the brush head. Each support pod can define a
bristle hole through the bristle carrier.
[0022] In one example, the hair brush can also include support pods
protruding from and spaced apart over a back side of a bristle
carrier joined to the brush head. Each support pod can define a
bristle hole through the bristle carrier. Each of the plurality of
monofilament bristles can be secured in a different one of the
support pods.
[0023] In one example, the hair brush can also include support pods
protruding from and spaced apart over a back side of a bristle
carrier joined to the brush head. Each support pod can define a
bristle hole through the bristle carrier. The hair brush can also
include a plurality of bristle tufts protruding from the working
surface of the brush head. One or more of the plurality of bristle
tufts can be secured in a common one of the support pods along with
one of the plurality of monofilament bristles.
[0024] In one example, the hair brush can also include support pods
protruding from and spaced apart over a back side of a bristle
carrier joined to the brush head. Each support pod can define a
bristle hole through the bristle carrier. The hair brush can also
include a plurality of bristle tufts protruding from the working
surface of the brush head. The plurality of monofilament bristles
can be secured in a first set of the support pods and the plurality
of bristle tufts is secured in a second set of the support pods
different from the first set.
[0025] In one example, the brush head can be an oval or a
rectangular shape defined by a perimeter and can form a pair of
opposed faces, one of which defines the working surface.
[0026] In one example, the brush head can be a generally
cylindrical shape with a circumferential outer surface defining the
working surface.
[0027] In one example, the hair brush can also include a handle
connected to and extending from the brush head.
[0028] In one example, the microfiber material can be a layer of
microfiber cloth connected to a substantial majority of the working
surface.
[0029] In one example, the hair brush can also include a bristle
carrier coupled to the brush head. The microfiber material can
include one or more microfiber material segments connected to the
bristle carrier on the working surface.
[0030] In one example, the hair brush can also include a bristle
carrier coupled to the brush head. The microfiber material can
include two or more microfiber material segments connected to the
bristle carrier on the working surface. Each of the microfiber
material segments can be spaced from the other of the microfiber
material segments.
[0031] In one example, the hair brush can also include a bristle
carrier coupled to the brush head. The microfiber material can
include one or more microfiber material segments connected to the
bristle carrier on the working surface. A ring can secure a
perimeter edge of the bristle carrier to the brush head. The ring
can also secure edges of the one or more microfiber material
segments to the brush head.
[0032] In one example, the hair brush can also include a bristle
carrier coupled to the brush head. The microfiber material can
include one or more microfiber material segments connected to the
bristle carrier on the working surface. A ring can secure a
perimeter edge of the bristle carrier to the brush head. The ring
can also secure edges of the one or more microfiber material
segments to the brush head. The ring can be formed of a ceramic
material or can have a ceramic coating thereon.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0033] Objects, features, and advantages of the present invention
will become apparent upon reading the following description in
conjunction with the drawing figures, in which:
[0034] FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of one example of a hair
brush constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present
invention.
[0035] FIG. 2 shows a front plan view of the hair brush shown in
FIG. 1.
[0036] FIG. 3 shows a top end view of the hair brush shown in FIG.
1.
[0037] FIG. 4 shows a cross-section taken along line 4-4 of the
hair brush shown in FIG. 2.
[0038] FIG. 5 shows a front plan view of another example of a hair
brush similar to that shown in FIG. 1, but having a different
bristle configuration and arrangement.
[0039] FIG. 6 shows a top end view of the hair brush shown in FIG.
5.
[0040] FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of another example of a hair
brush constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present
invention.
[0041] FIG. 8 shows a front plan view of the hair brush shown in
FIG. 7.
[0042] FIG. 9 shows a top end view of the hair brush shown in FIG.
7.
[0043] FIG. 10 shows a front plan view of another example of a hair
brush similar to that shown in FIG. 7, but having a different
bristle configuration and arrangement.
[0044] FIG. 11 shows a top end view of the hair brush shown in FIG.
10.
[0045] FIG. 12 shows a front plan view of another example of a hair
brush similar to that shown in FIG. 7, but having another different
bristle configuration and arrangement.
[0046] FIG. 13 shows a front plan view of another example of a hair
brush similar to that shown in FIG. 7, but having another different
bristle configuration and arrangement.
[0047] FIG. 14 shows a front plan view of another example of a hair
brush similar to that shown in FIG. 7, but having another different
bristle configuration and arrangement.
[0048] FIG. 15 shows a perspective view of another example of a
hair brush constructed in accordance with the teachings of the
present invention.
[0049] FIG. 16 shows a front plan view of the hair brush shown in
FIG. 15.
[0050] FIG. 17 shows a top end view of the hair brush shown in FIG.
15.
[0051] FIG. 18 shows a top end view of another example of a hair
brush similar that shown in FIG. 15, but having a different bristle
configuration and arrangement.
[0052] FIG. 19 shows a top end view of another example of a hair
brush similar that shown in FIG. 15, but having another different
bristle configuration and arrangement.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0053] The disclosed hair brushes solve or improve upon one or more
of the aforementioned and/or other problems and disadvantages with
prior known hair brushes and styling implements. In one example,
the disclosed hair brushes employ a brush head with multiple
different features on the working surface that yield different hair
styling performance characteristics. In one example, the disclosed
hair brushes employ a plurality of monofilament, such as synthetic
or man-made, bristles protruding from the working surface of the
brush head. In one example, the disclosed hair brushes employ a
plurality of bristle tufts, which can be naturally occurring, such
as animal hair, protruding from the working surface of the brush
head. In one example, the disclosed hair brushes employ a
microfiber material exposed on at least a portion of the working
surface of the brush head. These brush head elements can in
combination produce a hair brush capable of performing several
functions including smoothing of the hair. These and other objects,
features, and advantages of the present invention will become
apparent to those having ordinary skill in the art upon reading
this disclosure.
[0054] Turning now to the drawings, FIGS. 1-3 show one example of a
hair brush 20 constructed in accordance with the teachings of the
present invention. In this example, the hair brush 20 generally has
a brush head 22 and a handle 24 projecting from one end of the
brush head. As is known in the art, one can grasp the handle 24 and
manipulate the hair brush 20 when styling a person's hair. The
configuration and construction of the handle 24 and the brush head
22 can vary considerably within the spirit and scope of the present
invention, as can the size, shape, and contour of each of these
components. In the disclosed example, the handle 24 is an elongate
rod shape configured to be easily grasped by a user's hand. Also in
this disclosed example, the brush head 22 is generally rectangular
in shape.
[0055] The hair brush 20 generally has a working or brushing
surface, side, or face 26 (hereinafter the "working surface") that
is exposed on a portion of the brush head 22. The configuration,
shape, and orientation of the working surface 26 can vary,
depending on the type and style of the hair brush and its intended
use. In this example, the generally rectangular brush head 22 has a
perimeter 28 and two opposed, somewhat flat or planar surfaces or
sides, one of which is a back surface 30 and the other of which is
the working surface 26.
[0056] In this example, the hair brush 20 is designed to produce
more than one different hair styling characteristic or function. In
order to do so, the hair brush 20 employs more than one functional
element on the working surface 26 of the brush head 22. As depicted
in FIGS. 1-3, the brush head 22 has a plurality of monofilament
bristles 32 that protrude from the working surface 26. The brush
head 22 also has a plurality of bristle tufts or clusters 34 also
protruding from the working surface 26. In addition, the brush head
22 further has a microfiber material 36 that is exposed on at least
a portion of the working surface 26. The microfiber material 36 is
generally exposed in the same direction as the monofilament
bristles 32 and bristle tufts 34. Specific structural and
functional characteristics of each of these functional elements are
described in greater detail below.
[0057] The basic construction of the working surface 26 on the hair
brush 20 is depicted in and described with reference to FIG. 4.
However, it is understood that the basic construction and
manufacturing methods used to create the disclosed hair brushes can
vary within the spirit and scope of the present invention. In this
example, the brush head 22 generally defines a cavity (not shown)
on the side opposite the back surface 30. A bristle assembly 40 is
attached to, mounted to, adhered to, or otherwise secured to the
brush head 22 over the cavity. FIG. 4 generally shows the bristle
assembly 40 in this disclosed example.
[0058] In general, the bristle assembly 40 has a bristle carrier 42
that is secured or joined to the brush head 22. The bristle carrier
42 has a front side 44 facing away from the brush head 22 and
creating a part of the working surface 26. The bristle carrier 42
also has a back side 46 that faces the brush head 22, i.e., the
cavity or recess in the brush head. The bristle carrier 42 also has
a perimeter edge 48 that is sized and shaped to correspond to that
of the brush head 22, and particularly the cavity into which the
bristle assembly is received and installed.
[0059] The bristle carrier 42 can be a resilient and flexible
material that can flex and return or spring back to shape during
use, as is known in the art. In one example, the bristle carrier 42
can be formed of an elastomeric material, rubber material,
plasticized PVC material, or the like. In other examples, the
bristle carrier 42 may be relatively stiff and somewhat less
resilient and flexible, if desired. Other suitable materials can
also be used to form the bristle carrier 42, different from the
examples described herein.
[0060] With reference to FIGS. 1-3, a ring 50 that is also sized
and shaped to correspond to the configuration of the brush head 22
and can be utilized to secure the bristle assembly 40 to the hair
brush 20. In one example, the ring 50 can be a ceramic material or
can be a ceramic coated substrate. The ring can certainly be formed
of other suitable materials such as aluminum, plastic, wood, or the
like. Depending on the material construction of the ring 50, the
ring can be secured to the brush head 22 in any suitable manner,
such as by sonic welding, adhesives, fasteners, a snap fit
configuration, or the like. The ring 50 can be configured to clamp
the perimeter edge 48 of the bristle carrier 42 between the ring
and the brush head 22 over the cavity. When assembled, the bristle
carrier 42 can take on a convex shape when viewed from the front
side 44 as is known in the art, creating a hollow space beneath the
bristle carrier and over the cavity. The bristle carrier 42 can
flex resiliently toward and away from the cavity during use.
[0061] Returning to FIG. 4, the bristle carrier 42 in this example
has a plurality of holes 52 form therethrough from the front side
44 to the back side 46. In this example, each of the plurality of
holes 52 extends through a generally cylindrical support pod 54
that protrudes from the back side 46 on the bristle carrier 42. The
support pods 54 can be integrally molded from the same material as
the bristle carrier 42 and configured to provide stability and
support for the various bristles attached to the bristle carrier.
It is preferred that the various bristles remain attached to the
bristle carrier 42 and remain in a generally stable orientation
relative to one another and to the bristle carrier.
[0062] In this example, each of the monofilament bristles 32 can be
a man-made molded or extruded synthetic structure. Each
monofilament bristle 32 can be formed of any suitable rigid or
semi-rigid material, such as plastic, thermoplastic elastomer,
metal, or the like. In one example, the monofilament bristles 32
can each be extruded and cut to length from a nylon material. As
shown, each monofilament bristle 32 has a stalk 56, a free end 58,
and a secured end 60. The secured ends 60 in this example are
formed to create a hook 64 thereon. The free ends 58 are formed
with an optional ball 62 on the tip of the stalk 56. In one
example, each monofilament bristle 32 can be heated and bent to
form the hook 64 and the free end 58 can be dipped in a secondary
material, such as an epoxy paint, to form the ball 62 on the
tip.
[0063] As will be evident to those having ordinary skill in the
art, the configuration and construction of the monofilament
bristles 32 can vary within the spirit and scope of the present
invention. Each bristle can be individually molded. Each
monofilament bristle 32 can be the same as the other monofilament
bristles on the hair brush 20 or the hair brush can include two or
more different types of monofilament bristles that are different in
length, diameter, material, shape, and/or the like.
[0064] In this example, each of the bristle tufts 34 is formed of a
naturally occurring substance, such as animal hair. It is well
known in the industry to utilize horse hair, boar hair, or the like
as brush bristles. In one example, each of the bristle tufts 34 can
be formed from multiple strands of boar hair. As shown in FIG. 4,
in one example, a strand of boar hair can be bent in half at 70
such that each strand forms two natural bristles 34 of the bristle
tufts 34 in the bristle assembly 40. It is within the scope of the
invention that the bristle tufts can be formed of man-made or
synthetic materials, such as elastomer, nylon, or the like.
[0065] In the disclosed example, at least one of the monofilament
bristles 32 is seated in a corresponding one of the holes 52 in the
bristle carrier 42. In other examples, it is at least possible that
two or more of the monofilament bristles 32 can be seated in a
common hole 52 in the bristle carrier 42. In this example, some of
the monofilament bristles 32 are seated in the same or a common
hole 52 with one of the bristle tufts 34. In this example, a
plurality of the boar hair strands are bent and tufted together and
seated in a hole 52 that also includes one of the monofilament
bristles 32. Some of the monofilament bristles 32 are seated in a
hole 52 that does not include any bristle tuft 34.
[0066] The various bristles can be secured to the bristle carrier
42 using a variety of methods known in the art. In one example,
though not shown herein, a metal staple, a metal clamp, or a wire
can be used to pinch, clamp, and/or otherwise retain the bristles
in place on the bristle carrier 42. In another example, the size
and shape of the secured end 60 of the monofilament bristles 32 can
be such that an interference fit is created between the support pod
54 and the hook 64. Thus, friction can be used to retain the
bristles secured to the bristle carrier 42, as in this example. In
a further example, glue or a suitable adhesive can also be applied
to each support pod 54 at the back side 46 of the bristle carrier
42. This can help secure and retain the various bristles attached
to the bristle carrier 42. Particularly, the glue or adhesive can
help secure and retained the finer bristle tufts 34 within the
respective support pods 54.
[0067] The method used to secure the various bristles in place can
be selected depending on the desired performance characteristics of
the hair brush 20. Multi-strand boar hair tufts 34 and synthetic
bristles 32 can be attached to a bristle carrier, i.e., a cushion
pad. The securing method may be devised to withstand an average
pull out force of 2.0 to 3.0 pounds (1.36 kg). As will be evident
to those having ordinary skill in the art, the particular securing
devices and methods can vary from the examples shown and described
herein. In addition, the disclosed support pods 54 are optional as
well. Other configurations and constructions of the bristle carrier
42, sometimes called the bristle cushion or pad, are certainly
within the scope of the present invention as well.
[0068] In a disclosed example, the microfiber material 36 can be a
cloth element that is applied to at least a portion of the front
side 44 of the bristle carrier 42. For the hair brush 20, a
substantial majority, if not all, of the front side 44 is covered
by the microfiber material 36. A microfiber material is typically
defined as a textile formed of synthetic fibers that have a very
thin thread diameter. Typically, microfiber thread is defined as
being finer than one or 1.3 denier or decitex per thread. This is
typically about 1/100 the diameter of a human hair and 1/20 the
diameter of a strand of silk. Microfibers are often made from
polyester textile, polyamide textile, polypropylene textile, or
some combination thereof. Microfiber material can be configured
having a mat, knit, or weave structure to create a cloth or fabric
material layer with a base and a loop pile, for example.
Alternatively, microfiber material be formed having a non-woven
structure. Characteristics of the microfiber material can be varied
to create desired performance features and characteristics. For the
purpose of the disclosed hair brushes, the microfiber material 36
can be specifically designed to yield a soft feel, absorb liquid,
and the like. The microfiber material 36 can be relatively flat or
have a texture, as desired. Further, the thickness of the fabric or
cloth layer of the microfiber material 36 can also be varied,
depending on the particular performance characteristics desired of
the material.
[0069] Microfiber material 36 can be secured to the bristle carrier
42 by use of glue or an adhesive that can withstand exposure to
water and hair cleaning, styling, and conditioning products. In the
disclosed example, the ring 50 and the size and location of the
perimeter edges of the microfiber material 36 can be such that the
ring clamps and secures both the edges of the microfiber material
and the perimeter edge 48 of the bristle carrier 42 to the bristle
head 22 when the hair brush 20 is assembled.
[0070] As shown in FIGS. 1-4, the microfiber material 36 is exposed
between the various bristles and at the base of the bristles 32,
34. The monofilament bristles 32 are spaced apart from one another
over the working surface 26 area. The number, placement, and
spacing of the monofilament bristles 32 can vary, depending on the
hair styling purpose and the hair type for which the hair brush 20
is intended. Similarly, the overall length of the monofilament
bristles 32 can vary for the same reasons. In this example, some of
the monofilament bristles 32 stand alone and are not associated
with or closely adjacent any of the bristle tufts 34. Other of the
monofilament bristles 32 are clustered together with some of the
bristle tufts 34. In this example, the bristle tufts 34 and
monofilament bristles 32 are generally arranged in lengthwise
spaced apart rows on the brush head 22. This arrangement can
change.
[0071] For example, FIGS. 5 and 6 illustrate just one of many
possible alternative examples of a bristle arrangement. In this
example, a hair brush 80 has essentially the same construction as
the earlier described hair brush 20. The only difference is that
each of the monofilament bristles 32 in this example is clustered
with a corresponding one of the bristle tufts 34. Each is secured
therewith in the same hole 52 and support pod 54 on the bristle
carrier 42. As will become apparent below, additional alternate
bristle arrangements are certainly within the scope of the present
invention.
[0072] As noted above, the size, shape, and configuration of the
brush head 22 can vary. To illustrate, FIGS. 7-9 depict another
example of a hair brush 90 that is constructed essentially the same
as the earlier described hair brush 20. The only difference in this
example is that the brush head 92 of the hair brush 90 has an oval
shape defined by its perimeter 94 instead of the earlier described
rectangular shape. The arrangement of the monofilament bristles 32,
bristle tufts 34, and microfiber material 36 is essentially the
same as that described above for the hair brush 20.
[0073] The arrangement of the various bristles on the hair brush 90
can also vary within the spirit and scope of the present invention.
To illustrate, FIGS. 10 and 11 depict another example of a hair
brush 100 that is essentially the same as the hair brush 90
including having an oval brush head 102. However, in this example,
the monofilament bristles 32 and bristle tufts 34 are each
clustered together in a manner identical to that for the alternate
hair brush 80 shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 and described above.
[0074] Other bristle arrangements can also fall within the scope of
the present invention. Several additional alternate examples are
depicted in FIGS. 12-14, each showing an oval shaped hair brush
similar to those depicted in FIGS. 7-11. FIG. 12 shows a hair brush
110 with an oval brush head 112. In this example, each of the
monofilament bristles 32 is arranged in a diagonal row across the
working surface 26. Similarly, the bristle tufts 34 are arranged in
diagonal rows across the working surface 26. However, each of the
rows of bristle tufts 34 is completely independent of, and
alternately dispersed between the rows of monofilament bristles 32.
Thus, in this example, each bristle type is secured in its own hole
and/or support pod on the bristle carrier. In another example,
though not shown herein, dual diagonal rows of each type of bristle
can be formed on the brush head 112 and can crisscross one another
over the working surface 26.
[0075] FIG. 13 shows another example of a hair brush 120 with an
oval brush head 122. In this example, the monofilament bristles 32
are arranged in lengthwise rows along the brush head 122. The rows
of monofilament bristles 32 alternate with separate and independent
rows of the bristle tufts 34. Similar to the hair brush 110, the
monofilament bristles 32 on the hair brush 120 do not share any
common holes or support pod with the tufts 34. FIG. 14 shows yet
another example of a hair brush 130 with an oval brush head 132.
The hair brush 130 has a similar construction to that of the hair
brush 120 except that the monofilament bristles 32 are arranged in
radially spaced apart oval rings. Likewise, the bristle tufts 34
are arranged in radially spaced apart oval rings that are radially
interspersed with the rings of monofilament bristles 32. Again, the
monofilament bristles 32 and the bristle tufts 34 on the hair brush
130 do not share any common attachment points, i.e., holes or
support pods.
[0076] FIGS. 15-17 illustrate yet another example of a hair brush
140 constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present
invention. In this example, the hair brush 140 has a generally
cylindrical or round brush head 142 and a handle 144 extending
lengthwise or axially from the brush head. The brush head 142 has
an outer circumferential working surface 146. A plurality of the
monofilament bristles 32 protrudes radially outward from the
working surface 146 with the individual bristles being spaced apart
around and lengthwise over the brush head 142. A plurality of the
bristle tufts 34 also protrude radially outward from the working
surface 146 with the individual tufts being spaced apart around and
lengthwise over the brush head 142. In this example, two microfiber
material segments 148 are also carried on the working surface 146.
The microfiber material segments 148 are arranged opposite one
another on the working surface around the circumference of the
brush head 142.
[0077] Similar to the hair brush 20 described above, some of the
monofilament bristles 32 protrude from the brush head 142 and are
independent of any of the bristle tufts 34. Likewise, some of the
monofilament bristles 32 are secured to the brush head 142 at
essentially the same location as one of the bristle tufts 34. The
various bristles are again arranged in lengthwise rows along a
length of the cylindrical brush head 142 in this example. Though
not shown herein, a bristle carrier can be positioned within and
secured to a core 150 of the brush head 142. FIG. 17 shows the
brush head 142 with an end cap 151 of FIG. 15 removed to
generically expose and show the core material. The various bristles
can be secured to the bristle carrier, which can in turn be secured
to the interior of the core 150. The various bristles can extend
through holes 152 or other such openings in portions of the core
150 or other components of the brush head 142. In this example, the
core 150 can be a multi-components structure, with the components
being snapped, fastened, welded, sonically welded, glued, or
otherwise adhered to one another to complete or cover a base core
material.
[0078] The microfiber material segments 148 can be adhered to a
surface of the core 150. Plates, such as thin metal, ceramic, or
ceramic coated plates 154, can be secured to the core 150 and can
pinch or capture edges of the segments 148 against the core. These
plates 154 can function similar to the earlier described ring 50 of
the hair brush 20. Additional vent openings 156 can also be
provided through portions of the core 150, plates 154, or the like
to vent the round brush head 142. Typically, this type of hair
brush 140 is used to style one's hair in conjunction with a blow
dryer. The brush head 142 can become quite hot during use. The vent
openings 156 can help to dissipate heat from the brush 140.
[0079] The plates 154 on the core 150 of the round style brush head
can be ceramic, metal, or other suitable materials. The earlier
described flat (rectangular, oval, etc.) style brushes can also
include microfiber material segments and metal or ceramic plates on
portions of the working surface, if desired.
[0080] Again, some of the monofilament bristles 32 on the round
hair brush 140 are attached to the brush head 142 independent of
any other bristles. Some of the monofilament bristles 32 protrude
from the brush head 142 at the same locations as the bristle tufts
34. Some of the bristles 32, 34 also protrude through the
microfiber material segments 148 and some of the bristles do not.
The bristle and microfiber material arrangement can vary on this
type of hair brush, similar to the prior examples. For example,
FIG. 18 shows an end view of a hair brush 160 with a different
bristle arrangement. Each of the bristle tufts 34 protrudes from a
brush head 162 at a different, independent location than the
monofilament bristles 32. In this example, each of the monofilament
bristles 32 is also provided as a V-shaped structure including two
of the bristles joined together at their respective bases (not
shown). This is simply to illustrate one possible variation in the
structure of the monofilament bristles described earlier. FIG. 19
depicts yet another example of a round hair brush 170 whereby the
monofilament bristles 32 are arranged in lengthwise rows and the
bristle tufts 34 are also arranged in lengthwise rows on a brush
head 172 and interspersed between the rows of monofilament bristles
and independent thereof. A wide variety of other optional and
different bristle arrangements are certainly possible for any of
the hair brush configurations disclosed and described herein.
[0081] The disclosed hair brushes offer a unique combination of
hair styling features and characteristics. The monofilament
bristles 32 in each of the embodiments can be sized and spaced to
perform the function of aligning strands of hair and detangling
strands of hair of the user. The bristle tufts 34 in each of the
embodiments can be optionally provided to distribute natural oils
throughout the user's hair as well as to distribute hairstyling and
conditioning products being applied to the hair. The bristle tufts
34, both in construction and in the clustered arrangement, can
hold, retain, and more evenly distribute the natural oils and hair
care products throughout the user's hair in comparison to a brush
having only monofilament bristles 32. The microfiber materials 36
and 148 of the disclosed embodiments can provide the additional
function of smoothing and polishing the hair strands of a user.
Microfiber material can be designed to absorb water and natural
oils, and to distribute same, much more evenly than either of the
monofilament or tufted bristles 32, 34. Depending on the particular
characteristics of a brush design, the microfiber material can be
specifically tailored to absorb, hold, and release natural oils,
conditioner, water, and the like to the user's hair. This function
can greatly assist in smoothing and polishing the hair strands of
the user, giving the hair strands a strong and healthy shine and a
smooth appearance.
[0082] A brush constructed according to the teachings of the
present invention can have a plurality of bristles with one or more
bristle types extending through a substrate, such as a bristle
carrier, brush head core, or the like. The brush can have at least
one microfiber material element that is positioned on an exterior
portion of the substrate and exposed to a user's hair during use.
The brush can have at least a portion of the plurality of bristles
extend through the microfiber material element or elements. The
brush can include one, two, or more than two bristle types, such as
porcupine (clusters of monofilament and tufts), boar, monofilament,
or elastomer material bristles. Less than all of the various
bristles and bristle types can extend through the microfiber
material element. The brush can include one or more metal elements
on a working surface of the brush and/or can include one or more
ceramic or ceramic coated elements on the working surface. In one
example, the brush can have at least a portion of the plurality of
bristles extend through the at least one metal or ceramic
elements.
[0083] Embodiments of the invention described herein are able to
create a smoothing action when styling one's hair by use of three
distinct features in a single brush: (1) combing, aligning, and
detangling; (2) polishing; and (3) redistribution of natural oils
and/or hair product. The disclosed hair brushes combine these three
features into a single hair brush by employing: (1) substantially
rigid or semi-rigid bristles or monofilaments for combing; (2)
natural or synthetic micro-bristle tufts or clusters for
redistribution of natural oils and residual hair product, and
static reduction; and (3) microfiber material for polishing the
cuticle and further redistribution of natural oils and hair
product.
[0084] Microfiber material has not before been used in a brush for
the purpose of smoothing hair strands and polishing cuticles. The
microfiber material has microscopic filaments that may interact
with the hair cuticle in a way that allows for a much broader
amount of surface to surface contact, resulting in a much better
distribution of oils and hair care products. This may allow the
hair to be polished at the nano-level, at the cuticle. This effect,
in combination with known aligning and oil redistribution qualities
of other known types of bristles, can work together to create a
superior smoothing effect in comparison to existing smoothing brush
products.
[0085] The microfiber material elements or segments can be attached
to or near the base of the bristles on the working surface of the
brush. In addition, or alternatively, microfiber material can be
included as folded fins or otherwise elevated in order to provide
more, deeper, or improved interaction with the hair. In one
embodiment, varying the height of the microfiber can be achieved by
cutting the microfiber into flaps, waves, or rods that extend
upward in the direction of the bristles.
[0086] Tufting machines typically used for making these types of
brushes can be very sensitive in that the force that the machine
uses to push the bristle through the rubber pad or carrier is
generally balanced with the resistance that the pad provides. If
the force is too large, the bent end of the bristle may go all the
way through the pad and the bristle may flop around. If the force
is too small, then bent edge of the bristle may not sink deep
enough into the pad material, and the bristle may fall out during
use.
[0087] Adding a layer of microfiber before bristling of the pad or
carrier could increase the manufacturing complexity and difficulty.
The surface of a typical microfiber substrate may be uneven, such
as when the microfiber is a base layer with a loop pile. The force
required to punch the bristle through the microfiber and the
carrier material to the correct depth may depend on where the
bristling machine hits the microfiber (e.g. on top of a loop, at
the base of the substrate, etc.). Because of this, some bristles
may tend to either fall out from the top, or be punched too far
through the carrier and wobble around.
[0088] The disclosed embodiments of the invention can solve this
problem. One can pre-punch the microfiber along with or separate
from the carrier material. In one embodiment, this can be achieved
by passing the microfiber and cushion pad or carrier through the
bristling machine with no bristles. In other embodiments, other
methods can be used, such as punching the substrates with a die,
etc. After the pad or carrier and the microfiber is pre-punched,
the substrate can then be run through the bristling machine a
second time to insert the tufts and the bristles. This pre-punching
operation can improve the consistency of the bristling force
required to penetrate the substrate. The pre-punching process can
be conducted to create holes in the microfiber material that align
with the holes and pods in the carrier or pad of the disclosed
examples. This can result in more uniform bristle heights and a
higher quality end product. In other embodiments, molding tools may
incorporate additional elements that would capture the pad or
carrier during the bristling step to stop the bristles from
punching too far through the pad. This additional tooling may be
incorporated in addition to the above mentioned two-step processes,
or may be used in lieu of the additional pre-punching process,
allowing for a single bristling step while still achieving uniform
and quality bristling.
[0089] In addition, according to the disclosed embodiments, an
extruded monofilament bristle may be used instead of an injection
molded bristle. Conventionally, oval brushes are bristled by
pushing injection molded bristles through the back of the pad or
carrier. However, because the pads may be pre-punched, according to
some embodiments, an extruded bristle can now be inserted through
the front of the bristle pad and secured to the back of the pad or
carrier according to conventional techniques or by using the
disclosed pods.
[0090] Although certain hair brushes with smoothing features,
characteristics, and capabilities have been described herein in
accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure, the scope
of coverage of this patent is not limited thereto. On the contrary,
this patent covers all embodiments of the teachings of the
disclosure that fairly fall within the scope of permissible
equivalents.
* * * * *