U.S. patent application number 14/755565 was filed with the patent office on 2016-01-07 for attachment for a hair care appliance.
This patent application is currently assigned to Dyson Technology Limited. The applicant listed for this patent is Dyson Technology Limited. Invention is credited to Emma Victoria DORAN.
Application Number | 20160000201 14/755565 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 51410627 |
Filed Date | 2016-01-07 |
United States Patent
Application |
20160000201 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
DORAN; Emma Victoria |
January 7, 2016 |
ATTACHMENT FOR A HAIR CARE APPLIANCE
Abstract
Disclosed is an attachment for a hot styling appliance, the
appliance comprising a body comprising a fluid inlet, a fan unit, a
heater and a fluid flow path from the fluid inlet through the fan
unit and heater, and a head comprising a generally tubular outer
wall having a fluid outlet extending at least partially along the
generally tubular outer wall which in use is in fluid communication
with the body providing a fluid outlet for fluid drawn into the
fluid inlet, the attachment comprising an elongate member which,
when attached to the appliance, extends at least partially along
the fluid outlet. The head may be bristleless. The elongate member
may be wider than the outer wall of the head. The elongate member
may extend around a quarter or at least a third of the outer wall.
The elongate member may extend beyond the generally tubular outer
wall.
Inventors: |
DORAN; Emma Victoria;
(Gloucester, GB) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Dyson Technology Limited |
Wiltshire |
|
GB |
|
|
Assignee: |
Dyson Technology Limited
Wiltshire
GB
|
Family ID: |
51410627 |
Appl. No.: |
14/755565 |
Filed: |
June 30, 2015 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
132/228 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A45D 20/10 20130101;
A45D 20/12 20130101; A45D 1/04 20130101; A45D 20/50 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A45D 20/10 20060101
A45D020/10; A45D 20/50 20060101 A45D020/50; A45D 1/04 20060101
A45D001/04 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Jul 3, 2014 |
GB |
1411929.1 |
Claims
1. An attachment for a hot styling appliance, the appliance
comprising a body comprising a fluid inlet, a fan unit, a heater
and a fluid flow path from the fluid inlet through the fan unit and
heater, and a head comprising a generally tubular outer wall having
a fluid outlet extending at least partially along the generally
tubular outer wall which in use is in fluid communication with the
body providing a fluid outlet for fluid drawn into the fluid inlet,
the attachment comprising an elongate member which, when attached
to the appliance, extends at least partially along the fluid outlet
wherein the elongate member is wider than the outer wall of the
head.
2. The attachment of claim 1, wherein the head is a bristles
head.
3. The attachment of claim 1, wherein the elongate member extends
around a quarter of the outer wall.
4. The attachment of claim 3, wherein the elongate member extends
around at least a third of the outer wall.
5. The attachment of claim 1, wherein the elongate member extends
beyond the generally tubular outer wall.
6. An attachment for a hot styling appliance, the appliance
comprising a body comprising a fluid inlet, a fan unit, a heater
and a fluid flow path from the fluid inlet through the fan unit and
heater, and a head comprising a generally tubular outer wall having
a fluid outlet extending at least partially along the generally
tubular outer wall which in use is in fluid communication with the
body providing a fluid outlet for fluid drawn into the fluid inlet,
the attachment comprising an elongate member which, when attached
to the appliance, extends at least partially along the fluid outlet
wherein the elongate member extends beyond the generally tubular
outer wall.
7. The attachment of claim 1, wherein the elongate member is
arcuate.
8. The attachment of claim 1, wherein the attachment comprises a
cuff for attaching the attachment to the appliance.
9. The attachment of claim 1, wherein the elongate member comprises
a cool wall.
10. The attachment of claim 9, wherein the elongate member is
formed with a double skinned wall.
11. The attachment of claim 9, wherein the elongate member
comprises an outer wall and an inner wall.
12. The attachment of claim 11, wherein an air channel is provided
between the outer wall and the inner wall.
13. The attachment of claim 1, wherein the elongate member is
substantially equally spaced from the head along the length of the
fluid outlet.
14. The attachment of claim 1, wherein the elongate member is
angled with respect to the generally tubular outer wall of the
head.
15. An attachment for a hot styling appliance, the appliance
comprising a body comprising a fluid inlet, a fan unit, a heater
and a fluid flow path from the fluid inlet through the fan unit and
heater, and a head comprising a generally tubular outer wall having
a fluid outlet extending at least partially along the generally
tubular outer wall which in use is in fluid communication with the
body providing a fluid outlet for fluid drawn into the fluid inlet,
the attachment comprising an elongate member which, when attached
to the appliance, extends at least partially along the fluid outlet
and is spaced from the head.
16. The attachment of claim 13, wherein a gap of between 5 and 10
mm is provided between the elongate member and the outer wall.
17. The attachment of claim 1, wherein the elongate member has a
second position with respect to the head.
18. The attachment of claim 17, wherein in the second position the
elongate member is displaced linearly from the appliance.
19. The attachment of claim 17, wherein the elongate member is
biased into the second position.
20. The attachment of claim 1, wherein the attachment is rotatably
attachable to the hot styling appliance.
21. An attachment for a hot styling appliance, the appliance
comprising a body comprising a fluid inlet, a fan unit, a heater
and a fluid flow path from the fluid inlet through the fan unit and
heater, and a head comprising a generally tubular outer wall having
a fluid outlet extending at least partially along the generally
tubular outer wall which in use is in fluid communication with the
body providing a fluid outlet for fluid drawn into the fluid inlet,
the attachment comprising an elongate member which, when attached
to the appliance, extends at least partially along the fluid outlet
wherein the attachment is rotatably attachable to the hot styling
appliance.
22. An attachment for a hair care appliance, the appliance
comprising: a body comprising a fluid inlet, a fan unit, a heater
and a fluid flow path from the fluid inlet through the fan unit and
heater, and a head comprising a generally tubular outer wall having
a fluid outlet extending at least partially along the generally
tubular outer wall which in use is in fluid communication with the
body providing a fluid outlet for fluid drawn into the fluid inlet,
the attachment comprising an elongate member which, when attached
to the appliance extends at least partially along the fluid outlet
wherein the elongate member is wider than the outer wall of the
head.
23. A hot styling appliance comprising a body comprising a fluid
inlet, a fan unit, a heater and a fluid flow path from the fluid
inlet through the fan unit and heater, and a head comprising a
generally tubular outer wall having a fluid outlet extending at
least partially along the generally tubular outer wall which in use
is in fluid communication with the body providing a fluid outlet
for fluid drawn into the fluid inlet, and an attachment, the
attachment comprising an elongate member which, when attached to
the appliance, extends at least partially along the fluid outlet
wherein the elongate member is wider than the outer wall of the
head.
24. The appliance of claim 23, wherein the fluid outlet comprises
at least one slot extending along the generally tubular outer
wall.
25. The appliance of claim 24, wherein the at least one slot is
formed by an overlap of a first end of the generally tubular outer
wall and a second end of the generally tubular outer wall.
26. The appliance of claim 24, wherein the fluid emitted from the
fluid outlet is attracted to an external surface of the wall.
27. The appliance of claim 24, wherein the slot is tangential to
the wall.
28. The appliance of claim 24, wherein the at least one slot is
formed as a spiral around the wall.
Description
REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the priority of United Kingdom
Application No. 1411929.1, filed Jul. 3, 2014, the entire contents
of which are incorporated herein by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] This invention relates to an attachment for a hair care
appliance such as a hot styling appliance.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] In a conventional hot styling appliance, air is sucked into
an inlet by a fan unit and directed towards the hair by an
attachment or head. Depending on the style desired, the air may or
may not be heated. The head or attachment often includes bristles
onto which hair is wrapped and held for styling. The air is
generally blown out of the head or attachment normal to the surface
of the head or attachment.
[0004] Curling irons generally have a heated portion that extends
from a handle and a clamp for retaining hair. The hair is either
wound round the heated portion and the clamp is used to clip the
hair tips or the hair tips are clipped and then the hair is wound
around the curling iron. The clip maintains the position of the
hair until it is set into a curl.
[0005] Straighteners conventionally have either two generally flat
heated pads that are used to clamp hair which is then tensioned
whilst drying the hair or a flat pad and a bristled pad which
detangles the hair whilst applying the tension and head.
[0006] In both examples the hair is heated directly.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] The present invention provides an attachment for a hot
styling appliance.
[0008] Preferably, the hot styling appliance comprises a body
comprising a fluid inlet, a fan unit, a heater and a fluid flow
path from the fluid inlet through the fan unit and heater, and a
head comprising a generally tubular outer wall having a fluid
outlet extending at least partially along the generally tubular
outer wall which in use is in fluid communication with the body
providing a fluid outlet for fluid drawn into the fluid inlet.
[0009] Preferably, the attachment comprises an elongate member
which, when attached to the hot styling appliance, extends at least
partially along the fluid outlet. In one embodiment the elongate
member is attached to the body. Alternatively, the elongate member
is attached to the head either adjacent the body or at or near the
distal end of the head from the body. An important feature is that
the elongate member extends along the fluid outlet.
[0010] Preferably, the head is bristleless; in other words the head
is unbristled or non-bristled.
[0011] Thus in one embodiment the invention provides an attachment
for a hot styling appliance, the appliance comprising a body
comprising a fluid inlet, a fan unit, a heater and a fluid flow
path from the fluid inlet through the fan unit and heater, and a
bristleless head comprising a generally tubular outer wall having a
fluid outlet extending at least partially along the generally
tubular outer wall which in use is in fluid communication with the
body providing a fluid outlet for fluid drawn into the fluid inlet,
the attachment comprising an elongate member which, when attached
to the appliance, extends at least partially along the fluid
outlet.
[0012] A bristleless head is a head without bristles extending from
head for engaging with hair to hold the hair and detangle the
hair.
[0013] The heater is located within the body of the appliance so is
inaccessible to a user. The user only contacts the fluid that exits
from the appliance.
[0014] The elongate member acts as heat shield or thermal barrier;
the elongate member can be positioned between the fluid outlet and
the skin of a user preventing direct contact of hot fluid that
exits the fluid outlet with the skin. The elongate member
additionally directs fluid back towards the hair.
[0015] Preferably, the elongate member is wider than the generally
tubular outer wall of the head. The elongate member extends beyond
the generally tubular outer wall. The elongate member has a width
that is greater than the diameter of the head. If the outer wall is
non-cylindrical, the elongate member is preferably wider than the
largest diameter of the outer wall.
[0016] Preferably, the elongate member extends around a quarter of
the generally tubular outer wall; if the generally tubular outer
wall is approximately circular, the elongate member extends about
90.degree. of the circumference of the generally tubular outer
wall. It is preferred that the elongate member extends around at
least a third of the generally tubular outer wall. Thus, when the
generally tubular outer wall is approximately circular, it is
preferred that the elongate member extends at least 120.degree.
around the circumference of the head.
[0017] Also provided is an attachment for a hot styling appliance,
the appliance comprising a body comprising a fluid inlet, a fan
unit, a heater and a fluid flow path from the fluid inlet through
the fan unit and heater, and a head comprising a generally tubular
outer wall having a fluid outlet extending at least partially along
the generally tubular outer wall which in use is in fluid
communication with the body providing a fluid outlet for fluid
drawn into the fluid inlet, the attachment comprising an elongate
member which, when attached to the appliance, extends at least
partially along the fluid outlet wherein the elongate member
extends beyond the generally tubular outer wall.
[0018] If the elongate member is arcuate, the elongate member has a
greater radius of curvature than the generally tubular outer wall.
The elongate member may be generally rectangular or have a
flattened portion with curved sides.
[0019] It is preferred that the elongate member has a common centre
with the generally tubular outer wall.
[0020] By extending beyond the generally tubular outer wall there
is much reduced risk of heated fluid flowing around the edges of
the elongate member and being close enough to a skin surface to
cause discomfort to the user.
[0021] In a preferred embodiment the attachment further comprises a
cuff which is attached to the elongate member. The cuff provides
the means for attaching the attachment to the appliance body or
head.
[0022] Preferably, when attached to the hot styling appliance, the
elongate member has a first position with respect to the head.
Preferably, in this first position the elongate member extends
substantially parallel to the generally tubular outer wall of the
head.
[0023] Alternatively, the first position is angled with respect to
the generally tubular outer wall of the head. The elongate member
can be angled towards the head or away from the head. Preferably,
in the first position, the elongate member is spaced from the
generally tubular outer wall of the head. It is preferred that the
elongate member is substantially equally spaced from the head along
the length of the fluid outlet.
[0024] Also provided is an attachment for a hot styling appliance,
the appliance comprising a body comprising a fluid inlet, a fan
unit, a heater and a fluid flow path from the fluid inlet through
the fan unit and heater, and a head comprising a generally tubular
outer wall having a fluid outlet extending at least partially along
the generally tubular outer wall which in use is in fluid
communication with the body providing a fluid outlet for fluid
drawn into the fluid inlet, the attachment comprising an elongate
member which, when attached to the appliance, extends at least
partially along the fluid outlet and is spaced from the head.
[0025] Preferably, a gap of between 5 and 10 mm is provided between
the elongate member and the generally tubular outer wall.
[0026] In one embodiment, the attachment does not clamp, grip or
constrict the hairs that lie between the elongate member and the
fluid outlet; hairs can be positioned between the elongate member
and the generally tubular outer wall for styling.
[0027] Alternatively, the elongate member can grip or clamp hair
tips. This embodiment is particularly applicable when the head is
bristleless. The elongate member has the gripping function of the
bristles.
[0028] Preferably, the attachment is adapted to clamp hair. Thus,
the attachment holds hair in place for drying and styling.
[0029] The invention also provides an attachment comprising an
elongate member having a second position with respect to the hot
styling appliance. Preferably, in this second position the elongate
member is angled with respect to the generally tubular outer wall
of the head. Alternatively, the in the second position the elongate
member is displaced linearly from the appliance. Preferably, the
second position is further from the head than the first position.
Thus, a distance between the head and the attachment is larger,
bigger or greater in the second position than in the first
position.
[0030] It is preferred that the elongate member is movable between
the first and second positions. Preferably, the elongate member
pivots between the first and second positions. Alternatively, the
elongate member is displaced towards and away from the head. The
elongate member may be placed in a multitude of different positions
between the first and second positions.
[0031] In a preferred embodiment, the elongate member moves and/or
pivots with respect to a cuff for attaching the attachment to the
appliance head or body.
[0032] Also provided is an attachment for a hot styling appliance,
the appliance comprising a body comprising a fluid inlet, a fan
unit, a heater and a fluid flow path from the fluid inlet through
the fan unit and heater, and a head comprising a generally tubular
outer wall having a fluid outlet extending at least partially along
the generally tubular outer wall which in use is in fluid
communication with the body providing a fluid outlet for fluid
drawn into the fluid inlet, the attachment comprising an elongate
member which, when attached to the appliance, extends at least
partially along the fluid outlet wherein the elongate member has a
first position with respect to the head and a second position with
respect to the head and the elongate member is movable between the
first and second positions.
[0033] Also provided is an attachment for a hot styling appliance,
the appliance comprising a body comprising a fluid inlet, a fan
unit, a heater and a fluid flow path from the fluid inlet through
the fan unit and heater, and a head comprising a generally tubular
outer wall having a fluid outlet extending at least partially along
the generally tubular outer wall which in use is in fluid
communication with the body providing a fluid outlet for fluid
drawn into the fluid inlet, the attachment comprising an elongate
member which, when attached to the appliance, extends at least
partially along the fluid outlet wherein the elongate member has a
first position with respect to the head and a second position with
respect to the head and the elongate member is pivotable between
the first and second positions.
[0034] In one embodiment the elongate member is biased into the
second position. Thus without an external force on the elongate
member it will be in the second position.
[0035] The attachment may be removably or permanently attached to
the hot styling appliance.
[0036] When removably attached, the attachment is removable for
storage purposes as well as during styling; the elongate member can
additionally be attached during styling.
[0037] In one embodiment, the head is used for creating curls and
hair is wrapped around the head for heating, drying and setting
into the curled shape. Depending on the preference of the user, the
wrapping process can be done with or without the elongate member
being attached.
[0038] When permanently attached, the elongate member is preferably
biased into the second position for wrapping and then moved into
the first position once wrapping has been completed.
[0039] It is preferred that the movement of the elongate member
from the second position to the first position is actuated by the
elongate member coming into contact with the users' head. Thus, the
elongate member automatically moves to the first position providing
protection as a thermal barrier and deflection of the heat during
use.
[0040] The attachment may be permanently or removably attached
having a single position with respect to the hot styling appliance
i.e. the attachment is stationary when attached. In this
embodiment, it is preferred that a gap of more than 5 mm and
preferably around 10 mm. Alternatively a gap of at least 10 mm is
provided between the elongate member and the generally tubular
outer wall. This provides sufficient space for hair to be
manipulated onto the head of the hot styling appliance for styling
purposes.
[0041] The attachment can be considered to have one or more of an
open and a closed position. The open position is when hair is
wrapped and released from the head. The closed position can be used
for wrapping, releasing and optionally clamping the hair. In the
open position the elongate member is either angled with respect to
the head or linearly displaced therefrom. In the closed position
the elongate member is parallel to the head. Preferably, the
attachment is biased into the open position.
[0042] The invention also provides an attachment which is rotatably
attachable to the hot styling appliance. Again, in this embodiment
the attachment is removably or permanently attached to the hot
styling appliance. Thus, when hair is being manipulated during a
drying and styling process the elongate member may rotate around
the generally tubular outer wall of the head.
[0043] Also provided is an attachment for a hot styling appliance,
the appliance comprising a body comprising a fluid inlet, a fan
unit, a heater and a fluid flow path from the fluid inlet through
the fan unit and heater, and a head comprising a generally tubular
outer wall having a fluid outlet extending at least partially along
the generally tubular outer wall which in use is in fluid
communication with the body providing a fluid outlet for fluid
drawn into the fluid inlet, the attachment comprising an elongate
member which, when attached to the appliance, extends at least
partially along the fluid outlet wherein the attachment is
rotatably attachable to the hot styling appliance.
[0044] The rotation of the attachment about the head achieved
either automatically by forces exerted onto the attachment for
example the elongate member or cuff by which the attachment is
attachment to the appliance and/or by manual manipulation.
[0045] The attachment is either fully rotatable around the head or
partially rotatable around the head.
[0046] Preferably, the fluid outlet extends at least partially
around the generally tubular outer wall. It is preferred that the
fluid outlet comprises at least one slot that extends along the
generally tubular outer wall. Preferably, the fluid outlet
comprises a plurality of slots extending along the generally
tubular outer wall. The slots may be equally spaced around the
generally tubular outer wall. The fluid outlet preferably extends
orthogonally to a longitudinal axis of the head and/or the body.
Alternatively, the fluid outlet extends non-orthogonally to a
longitudinal axis of the head and/or body. The fluid outlet thus
spirals or twists around the longitudinal axis of the head and/or
body.
[0047] Preferably, the fluid emitted from the fluid outlet is
attracted to an external surface of the generally tubular outer
wall. Preferably, fluid emitted from the fluid outlet flows around
the external surface of the generally tubular outer wall. For this
kind of head, the hair wraps automatically around the head of the
hot styling appliance. It is preferred that there is no clamping of
the hair in order for it to be wrapped around the head. However,
alternatively the attachment is used to clamp the hair, preferably
at the tips, to hold the hair in place for manipulation.
[0048] Another aspect of the invention provides an attachment for a
hot styling appliance, the hot styling appliance comprising a body
comprising a fluid inlet, a fan unit, a heater and a fluid flow
path from the fluid inlet through the fan unit and heater, and a
head comprising a generally tubular outer wall and a fluid outlet
extending at least partially along the generally tubular outer wall
wherein the fluid outlet comprises at least one slot extending
along the generally tubular outer wall and wherein the at least one
slot is formed by an overlap of a first end of the generally
tubular outer wall and a second end of the generally tubular outer
wall and wherein the generally tubular outer wall has a radius of
curvature, the attachment comprising an elongate member which, when
attached to the appliance extends at least partially along the
fluid outlet.
[0049] Preferably, the generally tubular outer wall is formed from
at least two plates. It is preferred that a first one of the at
least two plates comprises the first end of the generally tubular
outer wall. Preferably, a second one of the at least two plates
comprises the second end of the generally tubular outer wall. It is
preferred that the first of the at least two plates defines a
radially inner surface of the slot. Preferably, the second one of
the at least two plates defines a radially outer surface of the
slot.
[0050] Preferably, the at least two plates extending longitudinally
along the generally tubular outer wall and radially around the
tube. Preferably the slot extends longitudinally along the
generally tubular outer wall.
[0051] It is preferred that the slot is tangential to the generally
tubular outer wall. Preferably, fluid exiting the fluid outlet
flows along a radially inner surface of the slot. The radially
inner surface of the slot becomes the external surface of the head
when a downstream end of the overlap between the first end of the
generally tubular outer wall and the second end of the generally
tubular outer wall is reached. The fluid flows around the head
combining with fluid that exits from any further slots which form a
part of the fluid outlet. The fluid exiting the fluid outlet is
encouraged to follow the line of the radially inner surface
creating a flow around the head which pulls hair towards the head
and wraps the hair around the attachment in the direction of fluid
flow.
[0052] Preferably, the head comprises n slots and n plates. It is
preferred that one of the first end and second end of the outer
wall includes a spacer which defines a thickness of the slot.
Preferably, the second end of the outer wall comprises the spacer.
It is preferred that a pair of spacers are provided longitudinally
spaced along the outer wall. Any spacers maintain the gap between
the two parts forming the slot or thickness of the slot.
[0053] Preferably, the at least one slot is formed as a spiral
around the generally tubular outer wall. It is preferred that the
spiral is clockwise in the direction of fluid flow. Alternatively,
the spiral is anticlockwise in the direction of fluid flow.
Preferably, the slot is disposed at an angle of 1-89.degree. to a
longitudinal direction of the head. It is preferred that the slot
is disposed at an angle of 10-70.degree. to a longitudinal
direction of the head. Preferably, the slot is disposed at an angle
of 30-60.degree. to a longitudinal direction of the head. More
preferably, the slot is disposed at an angle of 45.degree. to a
longitudinal direction of the head.
[0054] A curved slot changes the direction that fluid flows out
from the fluid outlet tending to give a flow that is more normal to
the surface of the head and this improves the hold of the hair
around the head.
[0055] Preferably, the at least one plate is lined with a material.
It is preferred that the material absorbs sounds and/or vibrations.
Preferably, the material is Kevlar or wool.
[0056] Preferably, the attachment further comprises a cuff for
attaching the elongate member to the hot styling appliance.
[0057] In one embodiment, the cuff attaches to the body of the hot
styling appliance.
[0058] In another embodiment, the cuff attaches to the head of the
hot styling appliance.
[0059] The cuff extends at least partially around the body or head.
In the embodiment in which the attachment is fully rotatable around
the head, it is preferred that the cuff extends continuously around
the head.
[0060] Preferably, the attachment comprises a locating feature
adapted to cooperate with a corresponding feature on the hot
styling appliance whereby the locating feature determines the
relative positions of the attachment and hot styling appliance in
the longitudinal direction.
[0061] This feature enables the attachment to be repeatably located
with respect to the hot styling appliance in the same position
along the length of the hot styling appliance. Thus, it ensures
that a desired length of the fluid outlet is covered by the
elongate member. In fact it is preferably that the elongate member
extends longitudinally beyond the head of the hot styling
appliance.
[0062] Thus, a further aspect of the invention provides an
attachment comprising an elongate member adapted to extend
longitudinally beyond the fluid outlet.
[0063] Another aspect of the invention provides an attachment for a
hair care appliance, the appliance comprising a body comprising a
fluid inlet, a fan unit, a heater and a fluid flow path from the
fluid inlet through the fan unit and heater, and a head comprising
a generally tubular outer wall having a radius of curvature fluid
outlet extending at least partially along the generally tubular
outer wall which in use is in fluid communication with the body
providing a fluid outlet for fluid drawn into the fluid inlet, and
the attachment comprising an elongate member which, when attached
to the appliance extends along the fluid outlet.
[0064] Also provided is a hot styling appliance comprising a body
comprising a fluid inlet, a fan unit, a heater and a fluid flow
path from the fluid inlet through the fan unit and heater, and a
head comprising a generally tubular outer wall having a fluid
outlet extending at least partially along the generally tubular
outer wall which in use is in fluid communication with the body
providing a fluid outlet for fluid drawn into the fluid inlet, and
an attachment, the attachment comprising an elongate member which,
when attached to the appliance, extends at least partially along
the fluid outlet.
[0065] Preferably, the fluid outlet comprises at least one slot
extending along the generally tubular outer wall.
[0066] It is preferred that the at least one slot is formed by an
overlap of a first end of the generally tubular outer wall and a
second end of the generally tubular outer wall.
[0067] Preferably, the fluid emitted from the fluid outlet is
attracted to an external surface of the wall.
[0068] It is preferred that fluid emitted from the fluid outlet
flows around the external surface of the wall.
[0069] Preferably, the wall is formed from at least two plates. It
is preferred that a first one of the at least two plates comprises
the first end of the wall. Preferably, a second one of the at least
two plates comprises the second end of the wall. It is preferred
that the first of the at least two plates defines a radially inner
surface of the slot. Preferably, the second one of the at least two
plates defines a radially outer surface of the slot.
[0070] It is preferred that the wall is formed from at least two
plates and the at least two plates extending longitudinally along
the tube and radially around the tube.
[0071] Preferably, the slot extends longitudinally along the tube.
It is preferred that the slot is tangential to the wall.
[0072] Preferably, fluid exiting the fluid outlet flows along a
radially inner surface of the slot.
[0073] It is preferred that n slots and n plates.
[0074] Preferably, one of the first end and second end of the wall
includes a spacer which defines a thickness of the slot. It is
preferred that the second end of the wall comprises the spacer.
Preferably, a pair of spacers is provided longitudinally spaced
along the wall.
[0075] It is preferred that the at least one slot is formed as a
spiral around the wall.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0076] The invention will now be described by example, with
reference to the accompanying drawings, of which:
[0077] FIG. 1a shows an example of a hot styling appliance to which
the attachment of the invention is attachable;
[0078] FIG. 1b shows a cross section through the hot styling
appliance shown in FIG. 1a;
[0079] FIGS. 2a and 2b show an isometric view and an isometric
cross section through a first attachment according to the
invention;
[0080] FIGS. 3a and 3b show enlarged cross sections through the
first attachment;
[0081] FIGS. 4a, 4b and 4c show different orientations of an
attachment according to the invention attached to a hot styling
appliance;
[0082] FIGS. 5a and 5b show different cross sections through the
attachment of FIG. 6;
[0083] FIG. 6 shows an attachment in a second position attached to
a hot styling appliance;
[0084] FIG. 7a shows a cross section through an attachment;
[0085] FIG. 7b shows section B of FIG. 7a enlarged;
[0086] FIGS. 8a, 8b, 8c and 8d show different aspects of a
rotatable attachment;
[0087] FIG. 8e shows the rotatable attachment of FIG. 8d in a
different orientation;
[0088] FIGS. 9a, 9b and 9c show the rotatable attachment of FIG. 8a
in a different position and/or orientation;
[0089] FIGS. 10a, 10b, 10c and 10d show an alternative attachment;
and
[0090] FIGS. 11a and 11b show the alternative attachment in a
different position.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0091] FIGS. 1a and 1b show a hot styling appliance 10 with a
handle 20 and a detachable head 30 which is attaches at the distal
end 22 of the handle 20 to the fluid inlet 40. It is an example of
the sort of appliance that the attachment according to the
invention can be used with however; the invention is not limited to
the attachment being used with this particular appliance. The
appliance merely needs a fluid inlet, a fluid outlet a fan unit for
drawing fluid into the fluid inlet and a heater for heating the
fluid before it exits the appliance.
[0092] The handle 20 has an outer wall 26 which is generally
tubular and includes the fluid inlet 40 at and adjacent one end 24.
The fluid inlet 40 comprises a first set of apertures 44 which
extend radially around the handle 20 and along the outer wall 26 of
the handle from the handle end 24. The handle end 24 is covered by
an end wall 42 which is also perforated with a second set of
apertures 46 that extend through the end wall 42 of the handle.
Thus, the fluid inlet 40 extends around, along and across the
handle 20. The end wall 42 is orthogonal to the outer wall 26 and
an inner wall 60 of the handle.
[0093] The handle 20 also includes a fan unit 70 which comprises a
fan and a motor which drives the fan and in use, draws fluid in
through the fluid inlet 40, along a fluid flow path 50 which
extends through the length of the handle 20. The fluid is
optionally heated by a heater 80 before entering an inner cavity 38
of the head 30.
[0094] The head 30 includes a fluid outlet 100 which in this
example comprises parallel slots 102 each extending towards a
second end 36 of the head and disposed radially around the head 30.
This arrangement enables fluid to exit the head all the way around
the head and for the majority of the length of the head 30
maximising a hair styling region of the product.
[0095] In use, hair is wrapped around the head 30 whilst air or
fluid exits through the slots 102 drying the hair and/or styling
the hair into curls or waves. The hair wraps automatically due to
the flow of air around the surface of the head 30. The air or fluid
can be heated but this is not essential.
[0096] Power is provided to the hot styling appliance via a power
cable 48 which preferably extends from a plug or other power source
through the end wall 42 of the handle 20. The handle 20 also houses
a PCB 75 which is electrically connected to the cable 48, the fan
unit 70 and the heater 80 by internal wiring (not shown). An on/off
switch 52 and control buttons 54 are provided and connected to the
PCB 75 to allow the user to select one of a range of temperature
and flow settings.
[0097] The handle 20 is tubular and the outer wall 26 of the handle
20 is a cylindrical sleeve. The handle connects to a head 30 at a
first end 22 and at the distal, second end 24 a fluid inlet 40 is
provided. The fluid inlet 40 is a first means of filtering fluid
that enters the fluid flow path 50.
[0098] The fluid inlet 40 comprises a plurality of apertures
extending around, along and across the handle 20. Having an inlet
that extends in three dimensions has advantages particularly when
used with hair grooming appliances. Firstly, if the appliance is
placed on a surface whilst switched on only a small part of the
inlet surface area will be blocked or have restricted flow of fluid
into the appliance. This protects the fan unit and particularly the
motor of the fan unit from running with too low a flow rate as this
can cause overheating of the motor and cause damage to the
motor.
[0099] Secondly, often hair care appliances are used with a styling
product such as a mousse, gel or spray. These products are
typically either applied by a hand or directly to the hair as a
mist. After application by a hand, some of the product will be
retained on the skin which is then transferred to the appliance
when held. This can block at least some of the apertures 44 that
extend around and along the handle 20. However, the apertures 46
that extend under the handle and across the end wall 42 of the
handle will be unaffected. When a product is applied as a mist, it
can settle on the appliance and again block or restrict at least
some of the apertures of the fluid inlet 40. However, by having
apertures that extend around, along and across the handle 20 the
risk of blocking the fluid inlet 40 is reduced.
[0100] The apertures are preferably circular with a diameter of 0.2
to 1.6 mm. The diameter of the apertures can vary along, around and
across the handle 20. It is advantageous to space the apertures
regularly around, along and across the fluid inlet 40. Not only is
this visually pleasing but it also has the technical advantage that
there is no weak region of the fluid inlet 40 where blockage of a
portion is more likely or would have more impact on the flow into
the fluid inlet 40. The inlet is designed so that the flow into the
inlet is even at least around the circumference of the handle
20.
[0101] A foam block 58 is provided which in use is inserted into
the second end 24 of the handle 20. The foam block 58 is a second
means of filtering the fluid that passes through the primary fluid
inlet 40 into the primary fluid flow path 50. It is advantageous
that the foam block 58 extends beyond or further towards the first
end 22 of the handle than the primary fluid inlet 40 as this
ensures that fluid that has entered the primary fluid inlet 40 has
passed through the foam block 58 so has had two stages of
filtration.
[0102] The foam block 58 shown is cylindrical and substantially
fills the area within the handle 20 at the primary fluid inlet 40.
This is to ensure that all fluid that enters the primary fluid
inlet through first apertures 44 that extend around and along the
handle and fluid that enters through second apertures 46 that
extend across and through the end wall 42 of the handle 20 passes
through this second stage of filtration. The foam block 58 extends
longitudinally from the second end 24 of the handle 20 further than
the first apertures 42 of the primary fluid inlet 40.
[0103] The fluid outlet 100 of the head 30 will now be described in
more detail, referring in particular to FIGS. 2a, 2b, 3a and 3b.
The head 30 is essentially cylindrical and has a first end 32 for
connection to a handle 20 and a second end 36 distal to the first
end 32. The head 30 extends longitudinally from the first end 32 to
the second end 26 continuing a line described by the handle 20
(FIG. 1a) so is approximately the same diameter as the handle.
Within the head 30 is an inner cavity 38 and fluid that has been
drawn into the fluid flow path 50 within the handle 20 by the fan
unit 70 enters the inner cavity 38 via an aperture 302 in the first
end 32 of the head 30.
[0104] The fluid outlet 100 is formed from a number of parallel
slots 102 which extend along the length of the head 30 from the
first end 32 to the second end 36. The slots 102 are formed from an
overlap 120 (FIG. 3b) formed between adjacent plates 110 which
results in fluid being directed between a radially inner surface
104 formed from the outer surface 112 of a first plate 110a and a
radially outer surface 106 formed from the inner surface 114 of a
second plate 110b. The fluid 122 flowing out of the slot 102 is
tangential 130 to the outer surface 112 of the plate 110a and joins
with the fluid flowing out of the other slots of the fluid outlet
100 forming a fluid flow around the circumference of the head 30.
Thus, the fluid 122 is blown out along the external surface of the
head and this encourages hair to wrap around the head 30
automatically.
[0105] The plates 110 form an outer wall 184 of the head 30 through
which the fluid outlet 100 extends.
[0106] The fluid 122 exiting the slots 102 is attracted to the
curved surface of the head 30 by the Coanda effect. This in turn
causes hair that is presented to the head 30 to automatically wrap
around the surface and then styled into curls. As air is blown down
the length of the hair, wet hair is dried more quickly than
conventionally and as the wrapping process occurs without the use
of bristles, the hair can slide off the head 30 once it is dry or
styled so there is no tangling.
[0107] To maintain the size of each slot 102, spacers 108 are
provided. In this example, a pair of spacers 108 is provided to
maintain each slot 102 size. Each one of the pair of spacers 108 is
longitudinally spaced along the slot 102 and the plate 110. The
spacers 108 join adjacent plates 110 together.
[0108] Advantageously, each plate 110 is lined with a felt like
material 308 such as Kevlar or wool (see FIG. 3b). The material 308
does not extend over each slot 102 so the fluid exiting the fluid
outlet 100 does not pass through the layer of material 308. This
layer serves to absorb some of the noise produced by the fluid
flowing through the head 30 from the inlet to the head 30 at
aperture 302 to the fluid outlet 100. Such a layer of material 308
is as applicable for other heads herein described such as heads
130, 180 and 230.
[0109] Referring now to FIGS. 4a, 4b, 4c, 5a and 5b in particular,
the attachment 150 includes a heat shield or elongate member 160
which extends along a head 280. The attachment 150 is removably
attached to the hot styling appliance 10 via a cuff 170 which
locates around the handle 20 near the head 280. The elongate member
160 extends along the length of the head 280 maintaining a constant
distance or gap d (FIG. 5a) between the elongate member 160 and the
outer wall 284 of the head 280.
[0110] In a first embodiment, the attachment 150 is fixed in
relation to the head 280, the gap or distance d is defined so hair
can be wrapped around the head 280 either whilst the attachment 150
is attached to the hot styling appliance 10 or hair can be wrapped
and then the attachment 150 can be attached to the hot styling
appliance 10. In order to achieve both types of functionality, the
gap or distance d is around 10 mm. If the gap or distance d is
reduced, then the wrapping action of the hair around the head 150
is compromised when the attachment 150 is in place. If the
attachment is only to be attached after the hair has been wrapped
then the distance d may be reduced to around 5 mm or less.
[0111] In a second embodiment, the attachment 150 is movable in
relation to the head 280 between a first position shown in FIGS.
4a, 4b, 4c, 5a and 5b to a second position shown in FIG. 6. In the
second position the elongate member 150' is angled with respect to
the head 280 and a gap or distance d' between the outer wall 284 of
the head 280 and the elongate member 150' varies from the cuff 170
to a distal end 152 of the elongate member 150'. In this example
the gap or distance d' increases to around 10 mm. In this example,
a smaller gap or distance d' can be tolerated near the handle end
of the head 232 regardless of whether the attachment is attached
before, during or after wrapping of hair as this restricted gap or
distance d' only extends for a short distance along the length of
the head 280.
[0112] The head 280 of this example differs to the head 30
described in relation to FIGS. 1a, 1b, 2a and 2b in that the head
280 has a reduced diameter compared with the handle 20. The first
end 32 is substantially the same diameter as the handle 20 for
connection thereto, and then within a collar 232 the diameter of
the head 280 decreases to the reduced diameter prior to the fluid
outlet 200 formed by slots 282 and continues at a constant diameter
to the second end 236. This head 280 is used to create tighter
curls than head 30.
[0113] In addition, the slots 282 curve around the head 280 forming
a spiral or helical pattern around the head 280. The slots 282
curve by an angle .alpha. of 45.degree. from the longitudinal axis
A-A of the handle 20 and head 280 (FIG. 5a). In this example the
slots 282 curve in a clockwise direction from the first end 34 of
the head 280 towards the second end 236 of the head. The slots 282
are formed as before between adjacent overlapping plates 210
however, in order to form the curved slots 282, the plates 210 do
not extend along the longitudinal axis of the head 280 but also
curve by an angle of 45.degree.. Using angled slots changes the
profile of the fluid exiting from the head. The airflow exiting
from the slots is more normal to the slot when angled slots are
used. This has benefits including enabling more hair to be wrapped
around the head also, the hair is retained on the head more easily
leading to a potentially quicker styling process.
[0114] The slots can be curved in a clockwise or and anticlockwise
direction from the longitudinal axis A-A of the handle 20. Whilst
an angle of 45.degree. has been illustrated, improved wrapping is
seen even at an angle of 1.degree..
[0115] The attachment 150 is shown as being attached to the handle
20 however it could be attached to the head 280 adjacent the first
end 32, adjacent the second end 236 or within the collar 232 of the
head 280.
[0116] The attachment 150 moves from the first position to the
second position and vice versa via a pivot 190. Referring now to
FIGS. 7a and 7b, an attachment 250 is biased towards the second
position by a spring 252 and it is only on application of a force F
that the attachment 250 closes or moves to the first position as
shown. This force can be applied by any of a number of objects such
as a user's head or can be applied manually, for example. The force
can be relatively low at a few Newtons. Once the force F has been
removed, for example by removing the hair from the hot styling
appliance or the or moving the attachment away from the user's head
the attachment 250 moves back to the second position by the action
of the spring 252 i.e. the attachment opens ready to accept another
section or tress of hair for curling.
[0117] Referring now to FIGS. 8a, 8b, 8c and 8d attachment 350 has
an elongate member 360 which is connected to a cuff 370. The
attachment 350 can be stationary with respect to a head and hot
styling appliance in a first position as shown where the attachment
350 is generally parallel to the head (not shown), or it can be
movable from a first position to a second position where the
attachment 350' is angled with respect to the head (as shown in
FIG. 9a).
[0118] In this embodiment, the elongate member 360 is additionally
rotatable about an appliance to which it is attached. The elongate
member 360 is partially rotatable about an arc described by cuff
370.
[0119] The cuff 370 is provided with a channel 372 into which a
connecting member 362 for the elongate member 360 is located. In
this example the channel 372 and the connecting member 362 are
T-shaped and this ensures that the connecting member 362 can be
rotated around the cuff without being accidentally removed from the
cuff. FIG. 8e shows the elongate member is a rotated position 360'.
The elongate member is rotatable manually or by a radial force FR
acting on the elongate member 360' from the wrapping of the
hair.
[0120] The rotating aspect can be used on an attachment which is
stationary in the first position i.e. only lies parallel to the
head when the attachment is attached or, as shown in FIGS. 9a, 9b
and 9c the rotating aspect can be used in conjunction with the
ability to move the attachment from a first parallel position to a
second angled position with respect to the head. In order to enable
movement between the first position 350 and the second position
350' the connecting member 362 is joined to the elongate member 360
via a pivot joint 190. The elongate member 360 can be moved to a
rotated position 360' whilst the attachment is in the second
position 350' as well as in the first position 350.
[0121] Referring now to FIGS. 10a, 10b and 10c attachment 320 is
fully rotatable around the head as the cuff 330 is a complete
circle with a channel 332 for a connecting member 362 to move
around to a rotated position 360' as shown in FIG. 10d. As before,
the attachment may be stationary or fixed in a substantially
parallel orientation with respect to the head or the first position
320 or the attachment is moveable from the first position into a
second position where the attachment 320' is angled with respect to
the head (as shown in FIGS. 11a and 11b). In order to enable the
pivoting movement between the first position and the second
position, the connecting member 362 is connected to the elongate
member 360 via a pivot joint 380.
[0122] In this example, the attachment 320 is attached to a head or
body by push fitting the cuff 330 over the generally tubular outer
wall of the head or the outer wall of the body. A locating feature
such as a recessed groove and correspondingly sized pips can be
used to repeatedly position the attachment 320 with respect to the
head or body to ensure that a desired length of the fluid outlet is
covered by the attachment.
[0123] Referring now to FIGS. 5a, 5b and 7a, the elongate member
can be provided with a cool wall which improves thermal shielding
by the elongate member. The elongate member 150, 250 is formed as a
double skinned wall having an outer wall 154, 254 and an inner wall
156, 256 respectively. An air channel 158, 258 is provided between
the respective outer wall 154, 254 and inner wall 156, 256. The air
channel 158, 258 is a thermal barrier and restricts the conduction
of heat from the hot fluid exiting the fluid outlet to the outer
wall 154, 254 of the attachment 150, 250.
[0124] A cool wall effect could alternatively be achieved using
ribs that extend along the elongate member in any orientation
preventing a user from contacting the surface directly.
[0125] The attachment can be made from a number of materials such
as polycarbonate, PES (Polyethersulfone) or PSU (Polysulfone),
Nylon, Glass filled PBT (Polybutylene terephthalate). In one
embodiment at least the elongate member s transparent or semi
transparent. The attachments have been shown as push fitting or
locating onto the appliance however, it will be apparent to the
skilled person that alternative methods such as clipping the
attachment onto the appliance.
[0126] Whilst the attachments have been shown to pivot between
positions, as an alternative the attachment is moved parallel the
appliance and is displaced towards and away from the appliance.
[0127] The invention has been described in detail with respect to a
hot styling appliance however, it is applicable to any appliance
that draws in a fluid and directs the outflow of that fluid from
the appliance including a hairdryer.
[0128] The appliance can be used with or without a heater; the
action of the outflow of fluid at high velocity has a drying and
styling effect.
[0129] The fluid that flows through the appliance is generally air,
but may be a different combination of gases or gas and can include
additives to improve performance of the appliance or the impact the
appliance has on an object the output is directed at for example,
hair and the styling of that hair.
[0130] The invention is not limited to the detailed description
given above. Variations will be apparent to the person skilled in
the art.
* * * * *