U.S. patent application number 14/559917 was filed with the patent office on 2015-07-23 for handheld iron and stand.
This patent application is currently assigned to TRISTAR PRODUCTS, INC.. The applicant listed for this patent is Jorge Prats. Invention is credited to Jorge Prats.
Application Number | 20150201726 14/559917 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 53543707 |
Filed Date | 2015-07-23 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150201726 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Prats; Jorge |
July 23, 2015 |
Handheld Iron and Stand
Abstract
A flat iron and base stand are disclosed. The base stand
includes temperature controls and indicators that allow a user to
set a desired temperature for the flat iron and view the current
temperature. The base stand supports the flat iron in a vertical
position and a horizontal position. The base stand also includes a
button and retraction mechanism that retracts the power cord used
with the flat iron.
Inventors: |
Prats; Jorge; (River Edge,
NJ) |
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Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Prats; Jorge |
River Edge |
NJ |
US |
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|
Assignee: |
TRISTAR PRODUCTS, INC.
Fairfield
NJ
|
Family ID: |
53543707 |
Appl. No.: |
14/559917 |
Filed: |
December 3, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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14556245 |
Dec 1, 2014 |
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14559917 |
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61911757 |
Dec 4, 2013 |
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62043414 |
Aug 29, 2014 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
219/225 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A45D 1/28 20130101; A45D
2/001 20130101; A45D 2001/002 20130101; A45D 1/04 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A45D 1/04 20060101
A45D001/04; A45D 2/00 20060101 A45D002/00; A45D 6/20 20060101
A45D006/20; A45D 1/06 20060101 A45D001/06 |
Claims
1. A handheld iron apparatus, comprising: an iron including: a
first handle; a second handle; a first heating element coupled to
the first handle; a second heating element coupled to the second
handle; a hinge coupled to the first handle and the second handle;
a power source electrically coupled to one of the first heating
element, the second heating element, a base unit having a base
adapted to receive said iron, and one of said first handle and said
base unit including a display with one or more indicators.
2. An apparatus as in claim 1, wherein said one or more indicators
include color changing lights.
3. An apparatus as in claim 1, wherein the base unit includes: a
base forming a cavity and a top region adapted to support the iron;
and one or more controls disposed on said base.
4. An apparatus as in claim 1, wherein the base unit includes: a
base forming a cavity and a top region adapted to support the iron;
wherein the top region is adapted to support the iron in a first
position and a second position.
5. An apparatus as in claim 4, wherein the first position is a
substantially vertical position and the second position is a
substantially horizontal position.
6. An apparatus as in claim 3, wherein power source includes a
first power cord connected to said iron from the base unit and a
first power cord retraction mechanism coupled to the first power
cord.
7. An apparatus as in claim 3, wherein the base unit includes a
power outlet, a power outlet, a second power cord, connecting said
base unit to said outlet and a second power cord retracting
mechanism coupled to the second power cord.
8. An apparatus as in claim 3, wherein the base unit includes a
timer electronically coupled to the one or more controls.
9. A handheld iron apparatus as in claim 1, wherein said base unit
further includes: a base forming a cavity and a top region adapted
to support the iron; one or more controls disposed on the base; and
one or more indicators disposed on the base.
10. The handheld iron apparatus of claim 9, wherein the base unit
further includes a display.
11. The handheld iron apparatus of claim 9, further comprising: a
power cord connecting said base unit to said iron, and a retraction
mechanism, disposed within the cavity, for retracting the power
cord.
12. The handheld iron apparatus of claim 9, wherein the base unit
further comprises a USB port.
13. The handheld iron apparatus of claim 9, wherein the top region
is adapted to support the iron in a first position and a second
position.
14. The handheld iron apparatus of claim 13, wherein the first
position is a substantially vertical position and the second
position is a substantially horizontal position.
15. The handheld iron apparatus of claim 9, wherein the iron
further comprises a motion sensor.
16. The handheld iron apparatus of claim 9, wherein the base unit
further comprises at least one timer electronically coupled to the
one or more controls.
17. A handheld iron apparatus of claim 9, wherein the base unit
includes a support at a rear position of the base and adapted to
support the iron.
18. A handheld iron apparatus as in claim 1, wherein: the base
includes a support adapted to support the iron; one or more
controls is disposed on the base; and one or more of said
indicators is disposed on the base.
19. The handheld iron apparatus of claim 18, wherein the support is
arranged to assume one of: a horizontal position; and a vertical
position.
20. The handheld iron apparatus of claim 1, wherein the source is a
battery in said iron, said iron including a pair of first leads
from said battery, and said base unit including a pair of second
leads coupled to said pair of first leads when said iron is
positioned on said base unit.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present invention claims priority to U.S. Provisional
Application Ser. No. 61/911,757, filed on Dec. 4, 2013, and U.S.
Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/043,414 file Aug. 29, 2014 both
entitled "Handheld Iron and Stand." This is also a
continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/556,245
filed Dec. 1, 2014. The contents of these applications are
incorporated herein as if fully recited herein.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Hair irons are tools utilized to change the structure of
hair by applying heat. Different hair irons are utilized depending
on the desired result. Three common hair irons are generally
utilized in the art. Curling irons, utilizing a cylindrical heating
barrel, are used to make hair curly. Straightening irons, commonly
called straighteners or flat irons, are used to straighten hair.
Crimping irons are used to create crimps of the desired size in the
hair.
[0003] Flat irons work by breaking down the hair's hydrogen bonds
found in the hair's cortex, which cause hair to bend and become
curly. Once the bonds are broken, hair is prevented from holding
its original, natural form, though the hydrogen bonds can re-form
if exposed to moisture.
[0004] Existing flat irons, with heating plates typically
manufactured of Teflon, ceramic, tourmaline, titanium, or other
metal, employ handles that allow a user to compress hair between
two heated plates formed by thermally conductive material. Known
flat irons for styling hair typically include two paddle-like
members each having a handle end and a heated end. The handle ends
are joined to one another at a hinge, while the heated ends are
free so they can be opened and closed away from and toward each
other, respectively. The heated ends typically have a smooth,
thermally conductive surface, such as metal, to transfer heat from
an internal electrical heater to a user's hair when the hair is
placed in contact with the thermally conductive surfaces, referred
to as "heated plates." Certain flat irons have smooth heated plates
to impart a straightening style to a user's hair. In order to
achieve the desired effect, a length of the user's hair is
positioned between the two heated plates and, via the hinge, the
plates are closed toward one another. The flat iron is drawn,
typically away from the user's scalp, so that the hair runs through
and is in contact with both plates. Heat from each plate is
transferred to the hair. Generally, flat irons have power cords
that plug into a wall outlet in order to power the heated plates.
However, flat irons heated by butane elements and flat irons
structured to utilize infrared technology are also known in the
art. Known flat irons also have power and temperature controls on
the handle of the iron itself which allow the user to set the
desired temperature. As a result, since the user is holding the
iron during use, there is a risk that the user will unintentionally
or accidentally engage the power or temperature controls.
[0005] Most flat irons currently on the market are provided without
a stand. During operation, it is a common for the user to rest the
flat iron directly on a countertop, sink, or other surface when the
iron is in a heated state. When the iron is not in use, the user
may wrap the power cord around the iron, wind up the power cord, or
bunch up the power cord as desired. There is an apparent risk in
wrapping the power cord around the iron when the flat iron is in a
heated state. This risk is also present if the cord is wound or
bunched up near enough to the iron that heat from the plates can
impact the cord, thereby damaging the cord and potentially causing
a fire hazard. Known flat irons that are provided with or without a
stand do not address this common shortcoming.
[0006] Existing flat iron stands allow the iron to be placed in the
stand in one position, typically in a vertical position
perpendicular to the supporting countertop surface. A flat iron in
a vertical position is commonly preferred as it minimizes the
footprint of the flat iron for storage. It is well known in the art
that minimizing appliance footprints is preferred as commonly
utilized hair appliances, such as flat irons, are generally stored
in bathrooms where countertop space is at a premium. However, this
storage structure does not take into account safety concerns.
Specifically, when the flat iron is heated, by placing a flat iron
in a vertical state, the heating plates are generally at a position
which is convenient for a user to grab--a clear risk to the user
which could result in burns. Therefore, when using a flat iron in a
heated state, a user may desire to place the flat iron down
horizontally, thereby positioning the heating plates at the
furthest point from the user and encouraging the user to grab the
flat iron at a non-heated point on the handle, closer to the hinge.
However, without a stand structured to accept a flat iron in a
horizontal state, a user often places the heated flat iron on a
surface which is susceptible to damage as a result of the heat
emanating from the heating plates. Furthermore, as previously
mentioned, if the flat iron is placed in an insecure position on a
countertop, the iron can be damaged, the cord can be damaged, or
the iron can fall, creating risk to the operator as well as
potential damage to property.
[0007] Known flat irons have temperature indicators or displays
located on the flat iron. However, the known displays do not
adequately and clearly indicate the temperature of the heated
plates in certain circumstances and under certain conditions. If a
user is not adequately apprised of the heated temperature of the
heating plates, the flat iron may not be completely effective or
may even be dangerous for use. Even in the case of known flat irons
with stands, the controls are still positioned on the flat iron
handles, rather than the stands which are better suited for
providing a clear indication of the temperature of the heated
plates.
[0008] In light of the foregoing, there is a need in the art for
improved flat irons.
SUMMARY OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION
[0009] It is the object of the present invention to provide a flat
iron and a base stand that overcome the disadvantages of the prior
art. In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the flat
iron includes two handles, two heat plates, and an optional
display. The base stand includes a top surface that supports the
iron in either a secure vertical position or a secure horizontal
position. The flat iron is generally structured to be positioned in
the vertical position when not in use, and positioned in the
horizontal position when in use. The vertical position limits the
amount of horizontal space required by the appliance when the flat
iron is positioned on a countertop and the horizontal position is
structured to limit the risk of burns to the user. The base stand
provides secure positioning of the flat iron in either a horizontal
or vertical position, thereby allowing the user to select which
position he or she prefers when the flat iron is in use or not in
use. The base stand supports the flat iron in an elevated position
above the countertop or other surface, thereby reducing the risk of
damage to the surface or the user. The base stand further includes
a display and temperature controls that allow a user to set and
adjust the desired temperature of the heat plates. The base stand
also includes a retraction mechanism for retracting the power cord
connecting the iron to the base stand and a retraction mechanism
for retracting the power cord connecting the base stand to a power
outlet. While retraction mechanisms can be employed for either or
both power cords, it is also contemplated by the present invention
that non-retractable cords may be utilized in an alternate
embodiment of the present invention.
[0010] Other objects, features, and characteristics of the present
invention, as well as methods of operation and functions of the
related elements of the structure and the combination of parts,
will become more apparent upon consideration of the following
detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings,
all of which form part of this specification.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0011] The detailed description makes reference to the accompanying
figures wherein:
[0012] FIG. 1A illustrates an iron positioned vertically in a base
stand according to the preferred embodiment of the present
invention.
[0013] FIG. 1B illustrates a rear view of an iron positioned
vertically in a base stand according to the preferred embodiment of
the present invention.
[0014] FIG. 1C illustrates an iron removed from its base stand
according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[0015] FIG. 2 illustrates an iron positioned horizontally in a base
stand according to the preferred embodiment of the present
invention.
[0016] FIG. 3 illustrates a structure for an iron and a base stand
wherein the iron is positioned vertically in the base stand.
[0017] FIG. 4 illustrates the structure for an iron and a base
stand wherein the iron is positioned horizontally in the base
stand.
[0018] FIG. 5 illustrates a structure for an iron and a base stand
in which the iron includes leads according to an embodiment of the
present invention.
[0019] FIG. 6 illustrates a structure for an iron and a base stand
wherein the iron is positioned vertically in the base stand at a
substantially intermediate portion of the base stand.
[0020] FIG. 7A illustrates a structure for an iron and a base stand
wherein the stand includes a fold out ledge to support the iron in
a horizontal position.
[0021] FIG. 7B illustrates a side view of the iron and base stand
of FIG. 7A.
[0022] FIG. 7C illustrates an overhead view of the iron and base
stand of FIG. 7A.
[0023] FIG. 8A illustrates a side view of the iron and base stand
of FIG. 7A wherein the fold out ledge is folded in a horizontal
position.
[0024] FIG. 8B illustrates a side view of the iron and base stand
of FIG. 8A wherein the iron is positioned horizontally on the fold
out ledge.
[0025] FIG. 8C illustrates an overhead view of the iron and base
stand of FIG. 8B.
[0026] FIG. 8D illustrates a side view of the iron and base stand
of FIG. 8B.
[0027] FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B are schematic illustrations of the iron
and base according to other embodiments of the invention.
[0028] FIG. 9C and FIG. 9D are schematic illustrations of an iron
and base according to other embodiments of the invention
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED AND OTHER EMBODIMENTS
[0029] The following presents a detailed description of the
preferred and other embodiments of the present invention, and
refers to the figures.
[0030] FIG. 1A, shows an exemplary iron and base stand in
accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention.
Iron 100 includes first handle 102 and second handle 104, which
preferably include plastic with low thermal conductivity. According
to an embodiment first handle 102 and second handle 104
alternatively include one or more other materials with low thermal
conductivity, such as wood or particular ceramics. At the end of
first handle 102 is first heat plate 106, and at the end of second
handle 104 is second heat plate 108. First heat plate 106 and
second heat plate 108 are preferably made of ceramic material with
high thermal conductivity. According to an embodiment, first heat
plate 106 and second heat plate 108 alternatively include one or
more other materials with high thermal conductivity such as metal
and may be covered by a coating, casing, fabric or other material.
Various coatings may be applied to one or more of the heated
surfaces, such as ceramic or nanosilver. According to an embodiment
steam output capability is provided to iron 100 including one or
more water reservoirs that convert water to steam for emission
during use. According to an embodiment one or more ionic ports (not
shown) may be provided on or near first heat plate 106 and/or
second heat plate 108. The one or more ionic ports are connected to
an ion generator of the type commonly known in the art. The ion
generator (not shown) is positioned in either the base stand 200 or
iron 100. The ion generator distributes ions for emission from the
one or more ionic ports while the iron 100 is in operation mode.
According to an embodiment, a button and control (not shown) is
included to selectively turn the ion emission on or off, or to
control ion emission intensity.
[0031] Also, in FIG. 1A, base stand 200 includes base 202 with
front flat surface 204 and rear flat surface 206, on/off button
208, first button 210, display 212, second button 214, and retract
button 216. In the preferred embodiment, base 202 is made of hard
plastic. In alternative embodiments, base 202 is made of metal,
ceramic, glass, or other suitable material. Base 202 is strong
enough to structurally and securely support iron 100 in both a
vertical position as shown in FIG. 1A and a horizontal position as
shown in FIG. 2. By structurally and securely supporting iron 100,
base stand 200 vastly reduces the hazards of common irons utilized
in the art by reducing risks to humans and property that result
from placing a hot iron on surfaces in an unsecured state.
[0032] Base stand 200 further includes electronic circuitry encased
within the interior of base 202. Base stand 200 further includes a
power cord (not shown) which connects to a conventional power
outlet and supplies power to the electronic circuitry within base
202. Partially inside base 202 is a retractable iron cord (not
shown). The first end of the iron cord is connected to the
electronic circuitry within base 202. The second end of the iron
cord is connected to iron 100. The iron cord supplies power from
the electronic circuitry to iron 100.
[0033] In the preferred embodiment, base stand 200 includes a
mechanism for retracting the iron cord. The mechanism is contained
within base 202 and preferably includes a spring and a spool, and
is fastened to one end of the iron cord. The mechanism allows the
opposite end of the iron cord (the end attached to iron 100) to be
pulled from base stand 200. The user may pull iron 100 away from
base stand 200 until the desired length of the iron cord has been
reached. In the preferred embodiment, a user presses retract button
216 to trigger the retraction mechanism, which draws the iron cord
back into base 202 as the user returns iron 100 to base stand
200.
[0034] In another embodiment, the mechanism retracts the iron cord
once the user returns iron 100 to base stand 200. In this
embodiment, a button (not shown) is located between front flat
surface 204 and rear flat surface 206 that triggers the retraction
mechanism when the button is pressed. As a result, when a user
returns iron 100 to base stand 200, iron 100 presses down on the
button (not shown) and the iron cord is automatically retracted. In
some embodiments, when the desired length of the iron cord has been
reached, the mechanism automatically secures the iron cord in
place. When the iron cord is fully extended, the mechanism retracts
the iron cord. Thus, when a user desires to have the iron cord
retracted toward base stand 200, the user pulls the iron cord until
it is fully extended, at which point the mechanism retracts the
iron cord until iron 100 is within a short distance of base stand
200. In a similar embodiment, the retraction mechanism may include
a button or similar device to be operated by a user which activates
the retraction functionality, thereby allowing the user to enable
the retraction mechanism. It should be appreciated that one or more
alternative or additional structures may be used to retract the
iron cord into base stand 200. In the preferred embodiment, base
stand 200 also includes a retraction mechanism for retracting the
power cord. The mechanism for retracting the power cord is similar
and operates in similar fashion to the mechanism for retracting the
iron cord. It should be appreciated that the mechanism for
retracting the iron cord and/or the mechanism for retracting the
power cord may be different and either or both may be omitted.
[0035] On/off button 208, first button 210, display 212 and second
button 214 are disposed on base 202 and allow a user to control and
monitor the temperature of iron 100. On/off button 208 is
electronically coupled to electronic circuitry within base 202. In
alternative embodiments, on/off button 208 may include a binary
rocker switch, dial, touch sensor, or other suitable control. When
on/off button 208 is set to the "ON" position, power is made
available to display 212. First button 210 and second button 214
are electronically coupled to electronic circuitry within base 202
and preferably include conventional buttons. In alternative
embodiments, one or more dials, switches, or other suitable
controls may be used in place of first button 210 and second button
214.
[0036] In the preferred embodiment, display 212 includes a screen
with light-emitting diode (LED) lights. In alternative embodiments,
display 212 may include another suitable display capable of
indicating a temperature via numerals, text, audible signals, or
graphics. In the preferred embodiment, base light 220 is positioned
at the underside of base stand 200 and is structured to emit a
colored light representing the temperature of iron 100.
Specifically, base light 220 may emit blue light for low
temperature, yellow light for moderate temperature, and red light
for high temperature. Base light 220 acts as a safety feature to
notify a user that iron 100 is hot. Base light 220 preferably
remains lit even after iron 100 is turned off, thereby providing a
warning to nearby people that first heat plate 106 and second heat
plate 108 are hot. Base light 220 may also serve as a nightlight
when the unit is not in use. In such embodiments, nightlight switch
218 can be switched to the ON position to turn on base light 220.
Base light 220 will then remain on until nightlight switch 218 is
switched to the OFF position. In some embodiments, base light 220
may be replaced by one or more other light sources and may be
positioned elsewhere on base stand 200 or iron 100. In some
embodiments, a dimmer switch may be used in place of, or in
addition to, nightlight switch 218 and used to set the color or
brightness of base light 220.
[0037] In the preferred embodiment, first temperature setting
button or first button 210 and second temperature setting button or
second button 214, are used to set the desired temperature of first
heat plate 106 and second heat plate 108. Specifically, when first
button 210 is pressed, the desired temperature of first heat plate
106 and second heat plate 108 is raised. When second button 214 is
pressed, the desired temperature of first heat plate 106 and second
heat plate 108 is lowered. In one embodiment, the desired
temperature of first heat plate 106 and second heat plate 108 may
be raised and lowered among a few preset temperatures. In this
embodiment, exemplary settings may be 350 degrees, 370 degrees, 390
degrees, and 410 degrees Fahrenheit, or may be referred to by terms
such as "low," "medium," "high," and "maximum." In an alternative
embodiment, the desired temperature of first heat plate 106 and
second heat plate 108 may be raised and lowered in increments, such
as by individual degrees. The desired temperature is displayed on
display 212. Time is required for first heat plate 106 and second
heat plate 108 to be heated up to the desired temperature, so the
desired temperature and actual temperature are not always equal.
For this reason, the actual temperature is preferably also
displayed to the user via display 212.
[0038] Iron 100 and/or base stand 200 preferably include an audio
device for emitting sound. In the preferred embodiment, an audio
device is contained within second handle 102. The audio device
beeps or otherwise emits a sound when first heat plate 106 and
second heat plate 108 have reached the desired temperature. In some
embodiments, sound may be generated for the duration of time that
first heat plate 106 and second heat plate 108 are at or above a
particular temperature. In the preferred embodiment, the audio
device also beeps when the iron 100 is turned on or off.
[0039] Iron 100 and/or base stand 200 preferably include a timer
that detects the amount of time between user activity. In the
preferred embodiment, a timer is embodied in the electronic
circuitry within base stand 200 and monitors the amount of time
after a user presses on/off button 208, first button 210 or second
button 214. In an alternative embodiment, a motion sensor in iron
100 detects movement of iron 100 by a user, and the timer monitors
the amount of time after a user moves iron 100. When the timer
determines that a threshold amount of time has passed since the
last user activity, the timer instructs iron 100 and base stand 200
to no longer provide heat or power to first heat plate 106 and
second heat plate 108. In the preferred embodiment, display 212
will remain operational and indicate the current temperature of
first heat plate 106 and second heat plate 108. In an alternative
embodiment, the timer may shut off iron 100 and/or base stand 200
completely.
[0040] In FIG. 1B, iron 100 rests horizontally in base stand 200 in
accordance with the preferred embodiment. Base 202 includes
nightlight switch 218, which a user can use to trigger base light
220 to function as a nightlight. As previously described, base
light 220 may indicate that iron 100 is on and/or emit a color
indicating the temperature of first heat plate 106 and second heat
plate 108.
[0041] FIG. 1C shows iron 100 removed from base stand 200 in
accordance with the preferred embodiment. In this view, iron cord
222 is visible. One end of iron cord 222 is connected to the
electronic circuitry within base 202 and the opposite end of iron
cord 222 is connected to iron 100.
[0042] FIG. 2 shows iron 100 resting horizontally in base stand 200
in accordance with the preferred embodiment. The resting cavity is
structured in a manner to allow iron 100 to rest on front flat
surface 204 (not visible) and rear flat surface 206 (not visible)
in a stable position, centrally placed not too far to one side of
base 202. If iron 100 extends too far to one side of base 202, it
may become unbalanced and tilt or fall off base stand 200. Iron 100
should also be positioned so that first heat plate 106 and second
heat plate 108 are kept at a safe distance from base stand 200. If
iron 100 is placed on base stand 200 in such a way that first heat
plate 106 and second heat plate 108 are too close to base stand
200, there is a risk that one or more components of base stand 200
may be damaged by heat emitted from first heat plate 106 and second
heat plate 108.
[0043] According to an embodiment, to reduce the likelihood of iron
100 falling or being placed in an unsafe position, iron 100 is
structured so that the center of mass is in the center of iron 100
or on the side of iron 100 opposite first heat plate 106 and second
heat plate 108. As an additional or alternative embodiment, iron
100 is structured so that it fits horizontally onto base stand 200
only when placed in a specific orientation. For example, the
structure of first handle 102 and/or second handle 104 may be
shaped so that they fit onto front flat surface 204 and rear flat
surface 206 only when first heat plate 106 and second heat plate
108 are positioned away from base stand 200, such as in the
configuration depicted in FIG. 2. As another example, first handle
102, second handle 104, base 202, front flat surface 204, and rear
flat surface 206 may be structured so that iron 100 clips or snaps
into base stand 200 only when first heat plate 106 and second heat
plate 108 are positioned away from base stand 200, such as in the
configuration depicted in FIG. 2. Preferably, a locking mechanism
is used to hold iron 100 secure when placed in base stand 200. In
some embodiments, one or more spring-powered clips engage contours
in iron 100 and hold iron 100 in place. Locking pins may be used as
a similar locking mechanism. It is contemplated that one or more
pins disposed in base stand 200 mate with pin holes in iron 100.
Finally, in some embodiments, magnets may be disposed in iron 100
and/or base stand 200 that hold iron 100 securely in place when
positioned in base stand 200. Iron 100 may be released from a
locking mechanism by pulling iron 100 away from base stand 200 with
sufficient pressure. Base stand 200 may include a lock release
mechanism such as a button that retracts or disables a locking
mechanism, thereby allowing a user to release iron 100 from base
stand 200. In some embodiments, iron 100 and base stand 200 may
include ridges, notches, or other patterns that mate, thereby
allowing iron 100 to rest in base stand 200 securely in various
orientations. In some embodiments, iron 100 and base stand 200 may
include plastic, rubber, silicone, or other material suitable to
allow iron 100 to rest in base stand 200 securely in various
orientations. Accordingly, iron 100 and base stand 200 may be
structured in a way that reduces or eliminates the need to balance
iron 100 in base stand 200.
[0044] To properly use iron 100, a user first plugs in the power
cord to a conventional power outlet. The user then activates the
iron 100 by pressing on/off button 208. The user then selects the
desired temperature of iron 100 by pressing first button 210 to
raise the temperature setting and by pressing second button 214 to
lower the temperature setting. Display 212 displays the current
temperature setting. Once first heat plate 106 and second heat
plate 108 have reached the desired temperature, display 212 will
blink or otherwise indicate that the desired temperature has been
reached. The user picks up iron 100 by gripping first handle 102
and second handle 104. As the user pulls iron 100 away from base
stand 200, the iron cord is extended from base stand 200. The user
applies first heat plate 106 and second heat plate 108 to the
user's hair as desired. During use, first heat plate 106 and second
heat plate 108 are maintained at the desired temperature.
[0045] The user may return iron 100 to base stand 200 by placing it
on base stand 200 in the vertical position as depicted in FIGS. 1A
and 1B or in the horizontal position as depicted in FIG. 2. As the
user returns iron 100 to base stand 200, the user can press retract
button 216 and the iron cord is automatically retracted inside base
stand 200 by the retraction mechanism in accordance with the
preferred embodiment. Alternatively, the user may elect not to
press retract button 216, may disable retraction, or may enable
retraction by first extending the iron cord completely, as
previously described. Once the user is finished using iron 100, the
user turns off the power to base stand 200 by pressing on/off
button 208.
[0046] FIG. 3 shows an iron and base stand in accordance with an
alternative embodiment incorporating principles of the present
invention. Iron 300 includes first handle 302 and second handle 304
connected by hinge 310. At the end of first handle 302 is first
heat plate 306, and at the end of second handle 304 is second heat
plate 308.
[0047] Also shown in FIG. 3, base stand 400 includes base 402 with
upper surface 404 and flat surface 406, on/off switch 408, first
button 410, display 412 and second button 414. Base 402 is strong
enough to structurally and securely support iron 300 in both a
vertical position as shown in FIG. 3 and a horizontal position as
shown in FIG. 4. On/off switch 408, first button 410, and second
button 414 are positioned to the side of upper surface 404. First
button 410 and second button 414 may be used to set the desired
temperature of first heat plate 306 and second heat plate 308.
[0048] FIG. 4 shows iron 300 resting horizontally in base stand 400
in accordance with the disclosed embodiment. Iron 300 includes
display 312 which preferably includes the same technology as
display 412. In the disclosed embodiment, display 312 indicates
that iron 300 is on and displays the current temperature. An on/off
switch 314 turns on the iron 300. An annunciator 316 indicates the
temperature range of the iron 300. For example, a blue light can
indicate that the iron is cool. An amber or orange light can
indicate that the iron is warming to the set temperature. Finally,
a red light can indicate that the iron is heated and ready for use.
A first button 318 serves to set the desired temperature of first
heat plate 306 and a second button 320 serves to set the desired
temperature of the second heat plate 308. Time is required for
first heat plate 306 and second heat plate 308 to heat up to the
desired temperature, so the desired temperature and actual
temperature are not always equal. For this reason, the actual
temperature is preferably also displayed to the user via display
312 and the temperature range by color in the annunciator 316.
[0049] An audio device generates a sound to notify the user that
the temperature has reached 390 degrees. It should be appreciated
that various sounds may be used to indicate one or more
temperatures, and a sound may be generated each time a
predetermined temperature is reached. One of skill in the art will
appreciate that variations to the display and audio may be made
without departing from the principles disclosed herein.
[0050] FIG. 5 depicts an embodiment without an iron cord.
Specifically, iron 500 includes bottom end 502, which includes
first metal lead 504 and second metal lead 506. Base stand 508
includes base 510 with upper surface 512 and flat surface 514. When
iron 500 is placed vertically into base stand 508, first metal lead
504 and second metal lead 506 interface with corresponding metal
leads (not shown) disposed on flat surface 514. Base stand 508
provides electric power to iron 500 via the metal leads disposed on
flat surface 514 and first metal lead 504 and second metal lead
506. A battery within iron 500 stores the electric power for use by
iron 500.
[0051] FIG. 6 shows an iron and base stand in accordance with an
alternative embodiment incorporating principles of the present
invention. Iron 600 includes first handle 602 and second handle
604. At the end of first handle 602 is first heat plate 306, and at
the end of second handle 604 is second heat plate 608.
[0052] Also in FIG. 6, base stand 610 includes base 612 with
surface 614, on/off switch 616, tinted partition 618, on/off
annunciator 620, first button 622, display 624, second button 626,
and retract button 628. Base 610 is strong enough to structurally
and securely support iron 600 in both a vertical position as shown
in FIG. 6 and a horizontal position. When placed in a vertical
position, iron 600 is positioned on a rear portion of base stand
610. Iron 600 should be set to rest on surface 614 in a horizontal
position. The user activates iron 600 by pressing on/off button
616. When on/off switch 616 is set to the "ON" position, power is
made available to display 624. Further, on/off annunciator 620 can
illuminate light to indicate the status of the iron. For example, a
blue light can indicate that the iron is cool. An amber or orange
light can indicate that the iron is warming to the set temperature.
Finally, a red light can indicate that the iron is heated and ready
for use. First button 622 and second button 626 may be used to set
the desired temperature of first heat plate 602 and second heat
plate 604. The desired temperature is displayed on display 624.
Time is required for first heat plate 606 and second heat plate 608
to be heated up to the desired temperature, so the desired
temperature and actual temperature are not always equal. For this
reason, the actual temperature is preferably also displayed to the
user via display 624.
[0053] FIG. 7A depicts an embodiment with a ledge to support an
iron. Iron 700 includes first handle 702 and second handle 704. At
the end of first handle 702 is a first heat plate (not shown), and
at the end of second handle 704 is a second heat plate (not shown).
Base stand 706 includes base 708, ledge 710, retract button 712,
on/off annunciator 714, on/off switch 716, second button 718, first
button 720, and display 722. Ledge 710 is preferably composed of
plastic with low thermal conductivity to support a heated or
unheated iron 700. Ledge 710 may alternatively include one or more
other materials with low thermal conductivity, such as wood or
particular ceramics. In this embodiment, ledge 710 is locked in a
first locking position and a second locking position by a locking
mechanism. As shown in FIG. 7A, ledge 710 is locked in a first
position that prevents access to ledge 710.
[0054] In FIG. 7B and FIG. 7C, iron 700 angles away from retract
button 712 when iron 700 is resting vertically in base stand 706.
This structure helps prevent a user from inadvertently making
contact with a heated iron 700 when attempting to press retract
button 712 or examine display 722 shown in FIG. 7A.
[0055] In FIG. 8A, ledge 710 is substantially perpendicular to base
708 in the second locking position. A user preferably presses on a
top portion of ledge 710 to unlock the first locking position shown
in FIG. 7A. When unlocked ledge 710 can rotate about a horizontal
axis. Thereafter, ledge 710 can rotate in a downward direction
until the locking mechanism locks ledge 710 in a second locking
position. In this embodiment, ledge 710 is locked in the second
position by a lip. Ledge 710 includes at least one ledge guide 724,
which is configured to secure iron 700 in a horizontal orientation.
Ledge 710 can be locked at other angles to secure iron 700 without
departing from the spirit of the present invention. The user can
rotate ledge 710 in an upward direction until the locking mechanism
locks ledge 710 in the first locking position shown in FIG. 7A.
[0056] FIGS. 8B, 8C, and 8D depict iron 700 resting horizontally on
ledge 710. In these views, iron cord 800 is visible. One end of
iron cord 800 is connected to electronic circuitry within base 708
and the opposite end of iron cord 800 is connected to iron 700.
Turning to FIG. 8C, in this embodiment two ledge guides 724 are
spaced on ledge 710 to secure iron 700. Ledge guide 724 is
preferably composed of plastic with low thermal conductivity to
support a heated or unheated iron 700.
[0057] FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B show schematic diagrams of the iron and
base stand as shown in FIG. 1A but are applicable to other figures
in accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present
invention. These figures include elements indicated as not shown in
other figures. As shown in FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B, Iron 100 includes
first handle 102 and second handle 104, The end of first handle 102
carries the first heat plate 106, and at the end of second handle
104 holds the heat plate 108. The iron 100 furnishes steam to heat
plates 106 and 108 with water reservoirs and steam generators WR1
and Wr2 that convert water to steam for emission during use. One or
more ionic ports IP1 appear on or near first heat plate 106 and one
or more ionic ports IP2 appear on or near second heat plate 108.
The ionic ports IP1 and IP2 receive ions from an ion generator IG1
with a control and a button BC1. The ion generator IG1 distributes
ions for emission from the one or more ionic ports while the iron
100 is in operation mode. The control and button BC1 serves to
selectively turn the ion emission on or off, or to control ion
emission intensity.
[0058] The ion generator IG1 with a control and a button BC1 is
shown positioned in both iron 100 and base stand 200. However, the
ion generator IG1 with a control and a button BC1 exists, in one
embodiment, only in the iron 100. In other embodiments, the
generator, the control, and the button BC1 are each separate and
distributed separately in either the iron 100 or the base stand 200
or both. That is in one embodiment the generator IG1 with the
control is located in the iron 100 with the button BC1, while a
second button BC1 and also the control exist in the base stand 200.
In another embodiment, the control is entirely in the base stand,
and the button BC1 appears in both or only one of the iron and base
stand. In an embodiment, the ion generator IG1 with control in the
base stand 200 include only the electronic control that controls
the ion generator IG1 in the iron 100; with further control for the
ion generator IG1 by the control in the iron 100. The button BC1 in
one embodiment appears only in the iron 100, or the base stand
200.
[0059] Base stand 200 includes base 202 with front flat surface 204
and rear flat surface 206, on/off button 208,
temperature-increase-control and first button 210, display 212,
temperature-decrease-control and second button 214, and retract
button 216.
[0060] Base stand 200 and base 202 further includes electronic
circuitry EC1 encased within the interior of base 202. Base stand
200 further includes a power cord PC1 which connects to a
conventional power outlet and supplies power to the electronic
circuitry EC1 within base 202. Partially or entirely inside base
202 is a retractable iron cord R1C1. The first end of the iron cord
R1C1 is connected to the electronic circuitry EC1 within base 202.
The second end of the iron cord is connected to iron 100. The iron
cord supplies power from the electronic circuitry EC1 to iron
100.
[0061] In the preferred embodiment, base stand 200 includes a
retracting mechanism RM1 for retracting the iron cord RIC1. The
retracting mechanism RM1 is contained within base 202 and
preferably includes a spring and a spool, and is fastened to one
end of the iron cord RIC1. The retracting mechanism RM1 allows the
opposite end of the iron cord IRC1 attached to iron 100 to be
pulled from base stand 200.
[0062] The user may pull iron 100 away from base stand 200 until
the desired length of the iron cord has been reached. In the
preferred embodiment, a user presses retract button 216 to trigger
the retraction mechanism, which draws the iron cord back into base
202 as the user returns iron 100 to base stand 200.
[0063] In another embodiment, the retracting mechanism RM1 retracts
the iron cord RIC1 once the user returns iron 100 to base stand
200. In this embodiment, a button RB1 located between front flat
surface 204 and rear flat surface 206 that triggers the retracting
mechanism RM1 when the button RB1 is pressed. As a result, when a
user returns iron 100 to base stand 200, iron 100 presses down on
the button RB1 and the iron cord RIC1 is automatically retracted.
In some embodiments, when the desired length of the iron cord has
been reached, the retracting mechanism RM1 automatically secures
the iron cord RIC1 in place. When the iron cord RIC1 is fully
extended, the retracting mechanism RM1 retracts the iron cord.
Thus, when a user desires to have the iron cord RIC1 retracted
toward base stand 200, the user pulls the iron cord until it is
fully extended, at which point the retracting mechanism RM1
retracts the iron cord until iron 100 is within a short distance of
base stand 200. In a similar embodiment, the retracting mechanism
RM1 may include a button or similar device to be operated by a user
which activates the retraction functionality, thereby allowing the
user to enable the retraction mechanism. In the preferred
embodiment, base stand 200 also includes a retraction mechanism RM2
for retracting the power cord PC1. The retracting mechanism RM2 for
retracting the power cord PC1 is similar and operates in similar
fashion to the mechanism for retracting the iron cord RIC1.
[0064] On/off button 208, temperature-increase-control and first
button 210, display 212, temperature-decrease-control and second
button 214, and retract button 216. are disposed on base 202 and
allow a user to control and monitor the temperature of iron 100.
On/off button 208 is electronically coupled to electronic circuitry
within base 202.
[0065] Iron 100 and/or base stand 200 or both include an audio
device AD1 for emitting sound. The audio device beeps or otherwise
emits a sound when first heat plate 106 and second heat plate 108
have reached the desired temperature.
[0066] Iron 100 and/or base stand 200 or both include a timer TI1
that detects the amount of time between user activity. A motion
sensor MS1 in iron 100 detects movement of iron 100 by a user.
[0067] FIG. 9C and FIG. 9D are similar to FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B, but
illustrate the embodiment shown in FIG. 5, wherein battery power
energizes the iron 100 when used. Here, in iron 500, a battery at
502 includes metal leads 504 and 506 that connect to metal leads
ML1 and ML2 in battery charger BTC1 of base stand 508 when the iron
500 rests in the base stand. At this time the battery charger BTC1
charges the battery through the metal leads 504 and 506. When the
iron 500 is lifted from the base stand 508 and used, the metal
leads 504 and 506 disconnect from the metal leads ML1 and ML2 and
the iron 500 is energized by the battery. The elements TI1, MS1,
AD1, IN1 communicate with the electronic circuitry EC1
wirelessly.
[0068] The invention provides a number of advantageous aspects such
as a retractable cord, a stand that supports a flat iron in both a
vertical position and a horizontal position, removing the power and
temperature controls from the handles of a flat iron, a flat iron
base that includes power and temperature controls for the flat
iron, a flat iron or base with a temperature indicator that clearly
indicates the temperature of the iron's heated plates, even after
the iron has been turned off, therefore alerting an unsuspecting
person that the heated plates of the iron are hot and potentially
dangerous, and other advantages.
[0069] It will be appreciated by one of skill in the art that the
principles disclosed may be embodied in alternative embodiments.
For example, a curling iron with curved heat plates or an iron with
only one handle and one heat plate may be structured to embody the
principles disclosed herein. As another example, a base unit may be
structured such that it supports an iron in a substantially
horizontal angle, a substantially vertical angle, and/or one or
more diagonal angles. In yet another example, the base unit can
include connectors, for example, a USB port, phone charger, or an
additional outlet plug. As a result, the user can charge or power
additional devices without unplugging the base unit from the
outlet.
[0070] A detailed illustrative embodiment of the present invention
is disclosed herein. However, techniques, methods, processes,
systems and operating structures in accordance with the present
invention may be embodied in a wide variety of forms and modes,
some of which may be quite different from those in the disclosed
embodiment. Consequently, the specific structural and functional
details disclosed herein are merely representative, yet in that
regard, they are deemed to afford the best embodiment for purposes
of disclosure and to provide a basis for the claims herein which
define the scope of the present invention.
[0071] None of the terms used herein, including "flat," "iron,"
"plate," "display," "indicator," "stand," "circuitry," and
"mechanism" are meant to limit the application of the invention.
The terms are used to illustrate the preferred embodiment and are
not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Similarly, the
use of these terms is not meant to limit the scope or application
of the invention, as the invention is versatile and can be utilized
in many applications, as will be apparent.
[0072] While the present invention has been described with
reference to the preferred embodiment, which has been set forth in
considerable detail for the purposes of making a complete
disclosure of the invention, the preferred embodiment is merely
exemplary and is not intended to be limiting or represent an
exhaustive enumeration of all aspects of the invention. The scope
of the invention, therefore, shall be defined solely by the claims.
Further, it will be apparent to those of skill in the art that
numerous changes may be made in such details without departing from
the spirit and the principles of the invention. It should be
appreciated that the present invention is capable of being embodied
in other forms without departing from its essential
characteristics.
* * * * *