U.S. patent application number 15/054418 was filed with the patent office on 2016-09-08 for hair styling apparatus with insulating air gaps.
The applicant listed for this patent is Spectrum Brands, Inc.. Invention is credited to Michael John deGrood.
Application Number | 20160255936 15/054418 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 56850300 |
Filed Date | 2016-09-08 |
United States Patent
Application |
20160255936 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
deGrood; Michael John |
September 8, 2016 |
Hair Styling Apparatus With Insulating Air Gaps
Abstract
A hair styling apparatus includes first and second arms, each
having respective first and second ends. The first and second arms
are pivotably coupled to each other at least at the first end of
the first arm for selective, pivotal movement relative to each
other to configure the hair styling apparatus between an opened
position and a closed position. A heating assembly has a first and
second end. The second end of the heating assembly is pivotably
coupled to the second end of the first arm. The heating assembly
includes a heat plate having a hair-heating surface. The heat plate
is spaced from the first arm in both the opened position and the
closed position of the hair styling apparatus to define an air gap
therebetween.
Inventors: |
deGrood; Michael John;
(Madison, WI) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Spectrum Brands, Inc. |
Middleton |
WI |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
56850300 |
Appl. No.: |
15/054418 |
Filed: |
February 26, 2016 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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62129335 |
Mar 6, 2015 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A45D 1/04 20130101; A45D
1/06 20130101; A45D 1/28 20130101; A45D 2/001 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A45D 2/00 20060101
A45D002/00; A45D 1/28 20060101 A45D001/28 |
Claims
1. A hair styling apparatus comprising: first and second arms each
having respective first and second ends, the first and second arms
being pivotably coupled to each other at least at the first end of
the first arm for selective, pivotal movement relative to each
other to selectively configure the hair styling apparatus between
an opened position and a closed position; and a heating assembly
having a first and second end, the second end of the heating
assembly being pivotably coupled to the second end of the first
arm, the heating assembly comprising a heat plate having a
hair-heating surface, wherein the heat plate is spaced from the
first arm in both the opened position and the closed position of
the hair styling apparatus to define an air gap therebetween.
2. The hair styling apparatus set forth in claim 1, wherein the
heating assembly is pivotably coupled to the first arm by a
revolute joint.
3. The hair styling apparatus set forth in claim 2, wherein the
revolute joint comprises a pin coupled to the insulating housing
and a pin receiving block coupled to the first arm, the pin
receiving block comprising a mounting surface configured to receive
the pin to define a pivot axis for the heating assembly.
4. The hair styling apparatus set forth in claim 1, wherein the
heating assembly is pivotably coupled to the first arm using a
resilient coupling.
5. The hair styling apparatus set forth in claim 1 further
comprising a biasing member configured to bias the heating assembly
away from the first arm.
6. The hair styling apparatus set forth in claim 5, wherein the
biasing member comprises a compression spring positioned between
the first arm and the heating assembly.
7. The hair styling apparatus set forth in claim 5, wherein the
biasing member comprises a resilient material positioned between
the first arm and the heating assembly adjacent the second end of
the first arm.
8. The hair styling apparatus set forth in claim 1 further
comprising a bumper positioned between the heating assembly and the
first arm, the bumper configured to maintain the air gap in the
closed position of the hair styling apparatus.
9. The hair styling apparatus set forth in claim 1, wherein the
heating assembly further comprises an insulating housing configured
to enclose at least a portion of the heat plate.
10. A hair styling apparatus comprising: a handle having first and
second arms having respective first and second ends, the first and
second arms being pivotably coupled to each other at least at the
first end of the first arm for selective, pivotal movement relative
to each other to selectively configure the hair styling apparatus
between an opened position and a closed position; a first heating
assembly having a first end and a second end, the second end of the
first heating assembly being pivotably coupled to the second end of
the first arm forming a cantilever, wherein the first heating
assembly is spaced from the first arm in both the opened position
and the closed position of the hair styling apparatus to define a
first air gap therebetween; a second heating assembly having a
first end and a second end, the second end of the second heating
assembly being pivotably coupled to the second end of the second
arm forming a cantilever, wherein the second heating assembly is
spaced from the second arm in both the opened position and the
closed position of the hair styling apparatus to define a second
air gap therebetween; and a resilient bridge member coupled to the
first ends of the first and second heating assemblies.
11. The hair styling apparatus set forth in claim 10, wherein the
resilient bridge member comprises at least one of an elastomer, a
thermoset plastic, a thermoplastic, a fabric-based material, and a
natural polymer.
12. The hair styling apparatus set forth in claim 10, wherein the
resilient bridge member is mechanically coupled to the first ends
of the first and second heating assemblies using a mechanical
fastener.
13. The hair styling apparatus set forth in claim 10, wherein the
resilient bridge member is formed integrally to the first ends of
the first and second heating assemblies.
14. The hair styling apparatus set forth in claim 10, wherein the
resilient bridge member comprises a spring hinge having a first
hinge member coupled to the first end of the first heating
assembly, a second hinge member rotatably coupled to the first
hinge member and coupled to the first end of the second heating
assembly, and a torsion spring configured to bias the first hinge
member toward the second hinge member.
15. The hair styling apparatus set forth in claim 10, wherein the
handle includes an angle proximate the first end of the first and
second heating assemblies such that a first portion the handle
defines and angle in the range between about 15 degree and about 90
degrees to a second portion of the handle.
16. A hair styling apparatus comprising: first and second arms each
having respective first and second ends, the first and second arms
being pivotably coupled to each other at least at the first end of
the first arm for selective, pivotal movement relative to each
other to selectively configure the hair styling apparatus between
an opened position and a closed position; a cantilevered first
heating assembly having a first end and a second end, the second
end of the first heating assembly being pivotably coupled to the
second end of the first arm, wherein the first heating assembly is
spaced from the first arm in both the opened position and the
closed position of the hair styling apparatus to define a first air
gap therebetween; a cantilevered second heating assembly having a
first end and a second end, the second end of the second heating
assembly being pivotably coupled to the second end of the second
arm, wherein the second heating assembly is spaced from the second
arm in both the opened position and the closed position of the hair
styling apparatus to define an air gap therebetween; and a spring
hinge comprising: a first hinge member coupled to the first end of
the first heating assembly; a second hinge member coupled to the
first end of the second heating assembly and rotatably coupled to
the first hinge member; and a torsion spring having a first end
secured relative to the first hinge member and a second end secured
relative to the second hinge member.
17. A hair styling apparatus comprising: first and second arms each
having respective first and second ends, the first and second arms
being pivotably coupled to each other at least at the first end of
the first arm for selective, pivotal movement relative to each
other to selectively configure the hair styling apparatus between
an opened position and a closed position; and a heating assembly
housing having first and second end portions and a center portion
extending therebetween, at least the first end portion being
coupled to the second end of the first arm, the center portion
being spaced from the first arm to define an air gap therebetween;
a heat plate coupled to the center portion of the heating assembly
housing, the heat plate having a hair-heating surface, wherein the
heat plate is spaced from the first arm in both the opened position
and the closed position of the hair styling apparatus.
18. The hair styling apparatus set forth in claim 17, wherein the
second end portion of the heating assembly is coupled to the first
arm of the hair styling apparatus.
19. The hair styling apparatus set forth in claim 17, wherein the
heat plate is rigidly coupled to the heating housing assembly.
20. The hair styling apparatus set forth in claim 17, wherein the
heat plate is flexibly mounted to the heating housing assembly.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent
Application Ser. No. 62/129,335 filed on Mar. 6, 2015, which is
incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to a hair styling
apparatus, and more particularly to a hair styling apparatus having
heating assemblies spaced apart from the housing by insulating air
gaps.
BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0003] Many different types of hair styling apparatus are available
for use in styling hair, such as straightening, curling, waving or
otherwise achieving a desired look. Common among such hair styling
apparatus is the ability to apply heat to the hair, and in
particular to provide one or more heated surfaces against which the
hair to be styled is contacted during styling. For example, flat
irons (which are also sometimes referred to as heated tongs or hair
straighteners) often have a pair of arms that are moveable relative
to each other between a closed position, in which at least portions
of the arms are in close proximity to each other to hold hair
therebetween, and an open position, in which the arms are spaced
from each other such that the arms are generally inoperative to
hold hair. A heating member with a heating surface is provided on
at least one of the arms, and more typically on both of the arms.
In use, the hair being styled is sandwiched between the heating
surfaces of the heating members when the arms are in their closed
position.
[0004] During use, at least some known flat irons do not close
entirely, leaving a gap between the heating members at an end of
the flat iron. In such instances, a user may grasp the free ends of
the flat iron housing to squeeze the free ends of the arms
together. However, due to the heating members being provided on the
arms of the housing, the housing may become hot through the
transfer of heat from the heating members to the arms. Thus, a user
grasping the ends of the arms may experience discomfort due to the
excessive heat transferred to the arms. There is a need, therefore,
for a hair styling apparatus that can be grasped or otherwise
manipulated near the heating members without such discomfort.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION
[0005] In one aspect, a hair styling apparatus is provided. The
hair styling apparatus includes first and second arms each having
respective first and second ends. The first and second arms are
pivotably coupled to each other at least at the first end of the
first arm for selective, pivotal movement relative to each other to
selectively configure the hair styling apparatus between an opened
position and a closed position. The hair styling apparatus also
includes a heating assembly having a first and second end. The
second end of the heating assembly is pivotably coupled to the
second end of the first arm. The heating assembly includes a heat
plate having a hair-heating surface. The heat plate is spaced from
the first arm in both the opened position and the closed position
of the hair styling apparatus to define an air gap
therebetween.
[0006] In another aspect, another hair styling apparatus is
provided. The hair styling apparatus includes a handle having first
and second arms having respective first and second ends. The first
and second arms are pivotably coupled to each other at least at the
first end of the first arm for selective, pivotal movement relative
to each other to selectively configure the hair styling apparatus
between an open position and a closed position. The hair styling
apparatus also includes a first heating assembly having a first end
and a second end. The second end of the first heating assembly is
pivotably coupled to the second end of the first arm forming a
cantilever. The first heating assembly is spaced from the first arm
in both the opened position and the closed position of the hair
styling apparatus to define a first air gap therebetween. The hair
styling apparatus also includes a second heating assembly having a
first end and a second end. The second end of the second heating
assembly is pivotably coupled to the second end of the second arm
forming a cantilever. The second heating assembly is spaced from
the second arm in both the opened position and the closed position
of the hair styling apparatus to define an air gap therebetween.
Moreover, the hair styling apparatus includes a resilient bridge
member coupled to the first ends of the first and second heating
assemblies.
[0007] In another aspect, yet another hair styling apparatus is
provided. The hair styling apparatus includes first and second arms
each having respective first and second ends. The first and second
arms are pivotably coupled to each other at least at the first end
of the first arm for selective, pivotal movement relative to each
other to selectively configure the hair styling apparatus between
an opened position and a closed position. The hair styling
apparatus also includes a cantilevered first heating assembly
having a first end and a second end. The second end of the first
heating assembly pivotably is coupled to the second end of the
first arm. The first heating assembly is spaced from the first arm
in both the opened position and the closed position of the hair
styling apparatus to define a first air gap therebetween. Moreover,
the hair styling apparatus includes a cantilevered second heating
assembly having a first end and a second end. The second end of the
second heating assembly is pivotably coupled to the second end of
the second arm. The second heating assembly is spaced from the
second arm in both the opened position and the closed position of
the hair styling apparatus to define a second air gap therebetween.
Furthermore, the hair styling apparatus includes a spring hinge.
The spring hinge includes a first hinge member coupled to the first
end of the first heating assembly, a second hinge member coupled to
the first end of the second heating assembly and rotatably coupled
to the first hinge member, and a torsion spring having a first end
secured relative to the first hinge member and a second end secured
relative to the second hinge member.
[0008] In yet another aspect, another hair styling apparatus is
provided. The hair styling apparatus includes first and second arms
each having respective first and second ends. The first and second
arms are pivotably coupled to each other at least at the first end
of the first arm for selective, pivotal movement relative to each
other to selectively configure the hair styling apparatus between
an opened position and a closed position. The apparatus also
includes a heating assembly housing having first and second end
portions and a center portion extending therebetween. At least the
first end portion is coupled to the second end of the first arm.
The center portion is spaced from the first arm to define an air
gap therebetween. Moreover, the apparatus includes a heat plate
coupled to the center portion of the heating assembly housing. The
heat plate includes a hair-heating surface. The heat plate is
spaced from the first arm in both the opened position and the
closed position of the hair styling apparatus.
DRAWINGS
[0009] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the
present disclosure will become better understood when the following
detailed description is read with reference to the accompanying
drawings in which like characters represent like parts throughout
the drawings, wherein:
[0010] FIG. 1 is an isometric schematic of a hair styling apparatus
having cantilevered heating assemblies, the hair styling apparatus
being in a closed position;
[0011] FIG. 2 is a side view of the hair styling apparatus of FIG.
1 in the closed position;
[0012] FIG. 3 is an isometric schematic of the hair styling
apparatus of FIG. 1 with the hair styling apparatus shown in an
open position;
[0013] FIG. 4 is a side view of the hair styling apparatus of FIG.
3 in the open position;
[0014] FIG. 5 is an isometric schematic of a first arm of the hair
styling apparatus of FIG. 1;
[0015] FIG. 6 is an exploded isometric schematic of the first arm
of FIG. 5;
[0016] FIG. 7 is an exploded isometric schematic of the first arm
of FIG. 5 illustrating the heating assembly exploded therefrom;
[0017] FIG. 8 is a side view of a second embodiment of a hair
styling apparatus with the apparatus shown in a closed
position;
[0018] FIG. 9 is a side view of a third embodiment of a hair
styling apparatus illustrating bumpers coupled to a housing of the
apparatus;
[0019] FIG. 10 is a side view of a fourth embodiment of a hair
styling apparatus illustrating bumpers coupled to first and second
heating assemblies of the apparatus;
[0020] FIG. 11 is a top view of a fifth embodiment of a hair
styling apparatus with the apparatus having an angled handle;
[0021] FIG. 12 is an isometric schematic of a sixth embodiment of a
hair styling apparatus with the apparatus having cantilevered
heating assemblies and a spring hinge coupled therebetween;
[0022] FIG. 13 is a side view of a seventh embodiment of a hair
styling apparatus with the apparatus having flexible hinges coupled
to first and second heating assemblies;
[0023] FIG. 14 is a partial isometric view of an end of a lower arm
assembly of the hair styling apparatus of FIG. 13;
[0024] FIG. 15 is a side view of an eight embodiment of a hair
styling apparatus having heating assemblies spaced apart from a
handle of the apparatus by insulating air gaps; and
[0025] FIG. 16 is a side view of an ninth embodiment of a hair
styling apparatus having heating assemblies spaced apart from a
handle of the apparatus by insulating air gaps.
[0026] Unless otherwise indicated, the drawings provided herein are
meant to illustrate features of embodiments of the disclosure.
These features are believed to be applicable in a wide variety of
systems comprising one or more embodiments of the disclosure. As
such, the drawings are not meant to include all conventional
features known by those of ordinary skill in the art to be required
for the practice of the embodiments disclosed herein.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0027] In the following specification and the claims, reference
will be made to a number of terms, which shall be defined to have
the following meanings. The singular forms "a", "an", and "the"
include plural references unless the context clearly dictates
otherwise. The terms "comprising", "including", and "having" are
intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional
elements other than the listed elements. "Optional" or "optionally"
means that the subsequently described event or circumstance may or
may not occur, and that the description includes instances where
the event occurs and instances where it does not.
[0028] Approximating language, as used herein throughout the
specification and claims, may be applied to modify any quantitative
representation that could permissibly vary without resulting in a
change in the basic function to which it is related. Accordingly, a
value modified by a term or terms, such as "about",
"approximately", and "substantially", are not to be limited to the
precise value specified. In at least some instances, the
approximating language may correspond to the precision of an
instrument for measuring the value. Here and throughout the
specification and claims, range limitations may be combined and/or
interchanged; such ranges are identified and include all the
sub-ranges contained therein unless context or language indicates
otherwise.
[0029] Referring now to the drawings and in particular to FIGS.
1-4, FIG. 1 is an isometric schematic of a hair styling apparatus
10 having cantilevered heating assemblies 12, 14, with the hair
styling apparatus 10 shown in a closed position. FIG. 2 is a side
view of the hair styling apparatus 10 shown in the closed position.
FIG. 3 is an isometric schematic of the hair styling apparatus 10
shown in an open position. FIG. 4 is a side view of the hair
styling apparatus 10 shown in the open position. In the exemplary
embodiment, the hair styling apparatus 10 is generally in the form
of a flat iron--also referred to as a hair straightener--that is
used to straighten a user's hair. The hair styling apparatus 10
includes two generally elongate cantilevered heating assemblies 12,
14 for use in straightening the user's hair when using the
apparatus. The heating assemblies 12, 14 include opposite
longitudinal ends, each having one of the longitudinal ends
pivotably coupled to a handle 20 of the hair styling apparatus 10,
thereby forming the cantilever. The heating assemblies 12, 14 are
configured to maintain an air gap 16, 18 between the heating
assemblies 12, 14, respectively, and the handle 20. The air gaps
16, 18 facilitate reducing the temperature of the handle 20 when
the heating assemblies 12, 14 are producing heat.
[0030] In the exemplary embodiment, the handle 20 of the hair
styling apparatus 10 is generally elongate with opposite
longitudinal ends, and includes first and second arms (lower and
upper arms as illustrated in FIGS. 1-4), generally indicated at 22
and 24, respectively. The first and second arms 22, 24 are
pivotably coupled to each other by a suitable pivot connection,
generally indicated at 26, at one of the longitudinal ends of the
handle 20. The first and second arms 22, 24 are moveable relative
to each other about a pivot axis of the pivot connection 26 such
that the hair styling apparatus 10 is positionable between a closed
position (FIGS. 1 and 2) and an opened position (FIGS. 3 and 4) of
the hair styling apparatus 10.
[0031] In one suitable embodiment, a biasing member, for example,
without limitation, a compression spring 28 (shown in FIGS. 5-7),
is positioned between the first and second arms 22, 24 adjacent the
pivot connection 26. In particular, the compression spring 28 is
seated within opposing spring seats 30 (one of which is illustrated
in FIGS. 3 and 4) formed on each of the arms 22, 24 to urge the
arms toward the open position of the hair styling apparatus 10. It
is contemplated that other embodiments of the hair styling
apparatus 10 may not include the compression spring 28, but may
include an alternative biasing member, for example, without
limitation, a torsion spring integrated with the pivot connection
26.
[0032] In the exemplary embodiment, the hair styling apparatus 10
includes a resilient bridge member 32 coupled between the heating
assemblies 12, 14 at each of the free longitudinal ends. The
resilient bridge member 32 includes first and second support mounts
34, 36 coupled to the respective free longitudinal ends of the
heating assemblies 12, 14. A resilient coupling 38 is coupled to
the support mounts 34, 36 to form the resilient bridge member 32,
which extends between the heating assemblies 12, 14 and facilitates
reducing the likelihood that the user's hair will fall into the air
gaps 16, 18. In an alternative embodiment, the resilient bridge
member 32 includes a single resilient material that extends between
the heating assemblies 12, 14. The resilient bridge member 32 can
include, for example, without limitation, a thermoplastic elastomer
and a thermoset elastomer. In one suitable embodiment, the
resilient bridge member 32 includes a silicone-based material.
Alternatively, the resilient bridge member 32 can include any
resilient material that enables the resilient bridge member 32 to
function as described herein. It is contemplated that other
embodiments of the hair styling apparatus 10 may not include the
resilient bridge member 32, such that the free longitudinal ends of
the heating assemblies 12, 14 remain free.
[0033] In the exemplary embodiment, the second arm 24 (the upper
arm as shown in FIGS. 1-4) includes an outer shell or housing
member 40 having an interior space configured to enclose various
components of the hair styling apparatus 10 therein. For example,
without limitation, longitudinally adjacent to the spring seat 30
is an upper cover panel 42 that together with the housing member 40
encloses a control system (not shown) for controlling operation of
the hair styling apparatus 10. The control system is configured to
control, for example, power on/off and/or heat output control of
the hair styling apparatus 10. The control system is electrically
coupled to a power source (not shown) via an electrical cord 44
that is coupled to the hair styling apparatus 10 rearward of the
pivot connection 26. The housing member 40 includes an integrated
button 44, which is useable by the user to operate the hair styling
apparatus 10, and an integrated display 46, which displays
pertinent information to the user.
[0034] While in the exemplary embodiment the switch 44, the
integrated display 46, and the control system are located on the
second arm 24, it is contemplated that one or more of the switch
44, the integrated display 46, and the control system may instead
be located on the first arm 22. It is also contemplated that more
than one switch 44 may be provided, for example, without
limitation, one for powering the hair styling apparatus 10 on/off
and another for controlling the amount of heat output.
Alternatively, the hair styling apparatus 10 includes any number of
switches that enable the hair styling apparatus 10 to function as
described herein.
[0035] FIG. 5 is an isometric schematic of the first arm 22 of the
hair styling apparatus 10. FIG. 6 is an exploded isometric
schematic of the first arm 22. FIG. 7 is an exploded isometric
schematic of the first arm 22 illustrating the heating assembly 12
exploded therefrom. With reference to FIGS. 5-7, the first arm 22
includes a housing member 50 having an interior space configured to
enclose various components of the hair styling apparatus 10
therein. For example, as disclosed above, the housing member 50 can
include one or more of the switch 44, the integrated display 46,
and the control system of hair styling apparatus 10. The first arm
22 includes a cover 52 coupled to the housing 50 generally at the
longitudinal end opposite the spring seat 30. The cover 52 includes
an upper surface 54 (as illustrated in FIGS. 5-7) generally
opposing the heating assembly 12. A front cover 56 is coupled to
the housing 50 to facilitate covering a revolute joint, generally
indicated at 58, formed between the first heating assembly 12 and
the first arm 22.
[0036] As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, in the exemplary embodiment, the
revolute joint 58 includes a pin 60 that is coupled to an
insulating housing 62 of the heating assembly 12. The pin 60 is
rotatably coupled to a pin receiving block 64, which is coupled to
the first arm 22, and in particular the housing 50. The pin
receiving block 64 includes an arcuate mounting surface 66
configured to receive the pin 60 and define a pivot axis for the
first heating assembly 12. The front cover 56 includes a
corresponding arcuate mounting surface (not shown) such that the
pin 60 is captured between the pin receiving block 64 and the front
cover 56, thereby defining the revolute joint 58.
[0037] In the exemplary embodiment, a biasing member, for example,
without limitation, a compression spring 68 (shown in FIGS. 6 and
7), is positioned between the first arm 22 and the first heating
assembly 12 adjacent the revolute joint 58. In particular, the
compression spring 68 is seated within opposing spring seats 69
formed on each of the first arms 22 and the insulating housing 62
to urge the first heating assembly 12 away from the first arm 22.
It is contemplated that other embodiments of the hair styling
apparatus 10 may not include the compression spring 68, but may
include an alternative biasing member, for example, without
limitation, a resilient material, or a torsion spring integrated
with the revolute joint 58.
[0038] Referring to FIG. 7, the insulating housing 62 of the first
heating assembly 12 forms a framework in which a heat plate
assembly 70 is mounted. The heat plate assembly 70 includes a heat
plate 72, a heating device 74, and a temperature sensor 76. The
heat plate assembly 72 is generally formed as a substantially
rectangular plate having a cavity or channel for receiving the
heating device 74. The heating device 74 is thermally coupled to
the heat plate 72, and upon assembly of the first heating assembly
12, is located within the framework of the insulating housing 62.
The heating device 74 is electrically coupled to the control system
via suitable wiring (not shown). The temperature sensor 76 is
thermally coupled to the heating device 74 and is electrically
connected to the control system. In the exemplary embodiment, the
temperature sensor 76 includes a thermistor. Alternatively, the
temperature sensor 76 is any type of temperature sensor that
enables the hair styling apparatus 10 to function as described
herein. In the exemplary embodiment, the temperature sensor 76
sends a temperature-indicating signal, indicative of the
temperature of the heating device 74, to the control system. The
control system is configured to regulate the temperature of the
heat plate 72 by regulating the heat output of the heating device
74 in response to the temperature-indicating signal.
[0039] In the exemplary embodiment, the heating device 74 includes
one or more heaters, for example, without limitation, electrical
resistance heaters, in thermal contact with the heat plate 72 to
heat the heat plate during use of the hair styling apparatus 10. In
one suitable embodiment, the heating device 74 is operable to heat
the heat plate 72 to a temperature of at least about 100 degrees
Celsius (.degree. C.), and may heat the heat plate 72 to a
temperature of about 250.degree. C. In another suitable embodiment,
the heating device 74 is operable to heat the heat plate 72 to a
temperature in the range of about 180.degree. C. to about
230.degree. C. It is understood that other suitable heating units
or heating methods may be used to heat the heat plate 72 without
departing from the scope of this invention. In the exemplary
embodiment, the heat plate 72 has a hair-heating surface 78
generally opposing the second arm 24 of the hair styling apparatus
10. The heat plate 72 may be constructed of any suitable material,
such as, without limitation, metal, ceramic materials, or
combinations thereof, that enable the heat plate 72 to function as
described herein. The heat plate 72 can be formed in other
configurations, including other shapes and sizes, without departing
from the scope of this disclosure.
[0040] Referring back to FIGS. 1-4, the upper arm or second arm 24
is constructed substantially similar to the first arm 22. As
disclosed herein, the second arm 24 includes the housing member 40
having an interior space configured to enclose various components
of the hair styling apparatus 10 therein. In the exemplary
embodiment, the second heating assembly 14 is pivotably coupled to
the second arm 24 of the hair styling apparatus 10 and is
constructed substantially the same as the first heating assembly 12
pivotably coupled to the first arm 22. A heat plate 80 of the
second heating assembly 14 has a hair-heating surface 82 generally
opposing the hair-heating surface 78 of the first heating assembly
12. The first and second heating assemblies 12, 14 each include
substantially similar heating devices and temperature sensors. For
example, in the exemplary embodiment, the first and second heating
assemblies 12, 14 each include the heating device 74 and the
temperature sensor 76.
[0041] In operation, the heating devices 74 of the respective
heating assemblies 12, 14 of the first and second arms 22, 24 pivot
about a longitudinal end of the respective arms so that in the
closed position of the hair styling apparatus 10, the hair-heating
surfaces 78, 82 sandwich hair therebetween. The cantilever
configuration of the heating assemblies 12, 14 operates to maintain
the insulating air gaps 16, 18, respectively, between the heating
assemblies 12, 14 and the first and second arms 22, 24,
respectively. This facilitates reducing the heat transferred from
the heating devices 72 to the first and second arms 22, 24. In the
open position of the hair styling apparatus 10, the hair-heating
surfaces 78, 82 of the heating devices 74 are spaced apart from
each other a sufficient distance to allow the introduction of hair
between the hair-heating surfaces while maintaining the air gaps
16, 18.
[0042] FIG. 8 is a side view of a second embodiment of a hair
styling apparatus 100 with the apparatus shown in the closed
position. The basic configuration of the hair styling apparatus 100
is substantially similar to the hair styling apparatus 10, and as
such, like characters represent like parts throughout the drawings.
The hair styling apparatus 100 includes the cantilevered heating
assemblies 12, 14 for use in straightening the user's hair when
using the apparatus. The heating assemblies 12, 14 include opposite
longitudinal ends, each having one of the longitudinal ends
pivotably coupled to the handle 20 of the hair styling apparatus
100, thereby forming the cantilever. The heating assemblies 12, 14
are configured to maintain the air gaps 16, 18 between the heating
assemblies 12, 14, respectively, and the handle 20.
[0043] In the exemplary embodiment, the handle 20 of the hair
styling apparatus 100 includes first and second arms 22, 24 (lower
and upper arms as illustrated in FIG. 8). The first and second arms
22, 24 are pivotably coupled to the heating assemblies 12, 14,
respectively, via resilient end pieces 102, 104, respectively. In
the exemplary embodiment, the resilient end pieces 102, 104 are
constructed and assembled substantially the same, thus only the
lower arm assembly of the hair styling apparatus 100 will be
discussed. The resilient end piece 102 is formed as a U-shaped
component and is coupled to a longitudinal end of the first arm 22
and the longitudinal end of the first heating assembly 12. The
U-shaped end piece 102 is configured to locate the first heating
assembly 12 away from the arm 22, thereby maintaining the air gap
16 therebetween. As the hair styling apparatus 100 is moved from an
opened position to a closed position, the end piece 102 flexes,
enabling the first heating assembly 12 to pivot about the
longitudinal end of the first arm 22. While in the various
embodiments of the hair styling apparatus the connection between
the first and second arms 22, 24 and the heating assemblies 12, 14
is pivotable, or flexible, it is understood that the connection can
be a fixed connection that retains the heating assemblies 12, 14 in
a spaced relationship with the first and second arms 22, 24, as is
further described herein.
[0044] In the exemplary embodiment, the resilient end piece 102 of
the hair styling apparatus 100 is formed from a single resilient
material, extending between the first arm 22 and the heating
assembly 12. The resilient end piece 102 can include, for example,
without limitation, a thermoplastic elastomer and a thermoset
elastomer. Alternatively, the resilient end piece 102 can include
any resilient material that enables resilient end piece 102 to
function as described herein. In one suitable embodiment, the
resilient end piece 102 includes a silicone-based material. In
another suitable embodiment, the resilient end piece 102 is formed
as a U-shaped tube, thereby facilitating passing electrical wires
(not shown) therethrough such that the control system can be
electrically coupled to the first heating assembly 12. In another
suitable embodiment, the resilient end piece 102 is formed as a
solid component, having the electrical wires mold therein.
[0045] In the exemplary embodiment, the hair styling apparatus 100
includes a resilient bridge member 106 coupled between the heating
assemblies 12, 14 at each of the free longitudinal ends, generally
opposite the resilient end pieces 102, 104. The resilient bridge
member 106 is substantially C-shaped and is formed from a single
resilient material. The resilient bridge member 106 can include,
for example, without limitation, a thermoplastic elastomer, a
thermoset elastomer, and a fabric-based material. In one suitable
embodiment, the resilient bridge member 106 includes a
silicone-based material. Alternatively, the resilient bridge member
106 can include any resilient material that enables the resilient
bridge member to function as described herein. In one suitable
embodiment, the resilient bridge member 106 is formed substantially
the same as the resilient bridge member 32 of the embodiment of
FIGS. 1-7, and includes the first and second support mounts (not
shown in FIG. 8 but similar to support mounts 34, 36 of FIGS. 1-7)
coupled to the free longitudinal end of the heating assemblies 12,
14, respectively. A resilient coupling (not shown in FIG. 8 but
similar to resilient coupling 38 of FIGS. 1-7) is coupled to the
support mounts to form the resilient bridge member 106. The
resilient bridge member 106 facilitates reducing the likelihood
that the user's hair will fall into the air gaps 16, 18. It is
contemplated that other embodiments of the hair styling apparatus
100 may not include the resilient bridge member 106.
[0046] FIG. 9 is a side view of a third embodiment of a hair
styling apparatus 110 illustrating bumpers 112 coupled to the
housing 20. In particular a bumper 112 is coupled to each of the
first and second arms 22, 24 proximate the free ends of the first
and second heating assemblies 12, 14, respectively. The bumpers 112
can be integrally formed with the first and second arms 22, 24, or
can be mechanically coupled thereto. In the exemplary embodiment,
the bumpers 112 are formed from a resilient material, for example,
without limitation, a thermoplastic elastomer or a thermoset
elastomer. In one suitable embodiment, the bumpers 112 include a
silicone-based material coupled to the first and second arms 22,
24, respectively. In the exemplary embodiment, the bumpers 112 are
configured to maintain the air gaps 16, 18 between the heating
assemblies 12, 14, respectively, and the handle 20. The air gaps
16, 18 facilitate reducing the temperature of the handle 20 when
the heating assemblies 12, 14 are producing heat.
[0047] In the exemplary embodiment, the hair styling apparatus 110
includes an alternative biasing member 114 positioned between the
first arm 22 and the first heating assembly 12, and the second
heating assembly 14 and the second arm 24, respectively. The
biasing member 114 is positioned between the heating assemblies 12,
14 and the arms 22, 24, respectively, to urge the heating
assemblies 12, 14 away from the arms 22, 24, respectively. In the
exemplary embodiment, the biasing members 114 are formed from a
resilient material, for example, without limitation, a
thermoplastic elastomer or a thermoset elastomer. In one suitable
embodiment, the biasing members 114 include a silicone-based
material.
[0048] FIG. 10 is a side view of a fourth embodiment of a hair
styling apparatus 120 illustrating bumpers 122 coupled to the first
and second heating assemblies 12, 14. In the exemplary embodiment,
a bumper 122 is coupled to each of the heating assemblies 12, 14
proximate the free ends of the first and second heating assemblies
12, 14, respectively. The bumpers 122 can be integrally formed with
the insulating housing 62 of the first and second heating
assemblies 12, 14, or can be mechanically coupled thereto. In the
exemplary embodiment, the bumpers 122 are formed from a resilient
material, for example, without limitation, a thermoplastic
elastomer or a thermoset elastomer. In one suitable embodiment, the
bumpers 122 include a silicone-based material coupled to the first
and second heating assemblies 12, 14, respectively. In the
exemplary embodiment, the bumpers 122 are configured to the
maintain air gaps 16, 18 between the heating assemblies 12, 14,
respectively, and the handle 20. The air gaps 16, 18 facilitate
reducing the temperature of the handle 20 when the heating
assemblies 12, 14 are producing heat.
[0049] FIG. 11 is a top view of a fifth embodiment of a hair
styling apparatus 130 with the apparatus having an angled handle
132. In the exemplary embodiment, the hair styling apparatus 130 is
substantially similar to the hair styling apparatus 10, except that
the angled handle 132 includes an angle .alpha. proximate the free
longitudinal ends of the first and second heating assemblies 12, 14
such that a first portion 134 of the angled handle 132 defines and
angle in the range of about 15 degrees to about 90 degrees relative
to a second portion 136 of the angled handle 132.
[0050] FIG. 12 is an isometric schematic of a sixth embodiment of a
hair styling apparatus 140 having the cantilevered heating
assemblies 12, 14, and a spring hinge 142 coupled therebetween. In
the exemplary embodiment, the spring hinge 142 includes a first
hinge member 144 coupled to the free end of first heating assembly
12. A second hinge member 146 is rotatably coupled to the first
hinge member 144, and is coupled to the free end of the second
heating assembly 14. A torsion spring 148 includes a first end (not
shown) secured relative to the first hinge member 144, and a second
end (not shown) secured relative to the second hinge member 146.
The torsion spring 148 is configured to bias the first hinge member
144 toward the second hinge member 146, thereby facilitating
maintaining the air gaps 16, 18 when the hair styling apparatus 140
is moved between a closed position and an opened position.
[0051] FIG. 13 is a side view of a seventh embodiment of a hair
styling apparatus 150 illustrating flexible hinges 152 and 154
coupled to the first and second heating assemblies 12, 14,
respectively. FIG. 14 is a partial isometric view of an end of a
lower arm assembly 156 of the hair styling apparatus 150. In the
exemplary embodiment, the first heating assembly 12 is pivotably
coupled to the lower arm assembly 156 of the hair styling apparatus
150 via the revolute joint 58 located proximate a longitudinal end
of the lower arm assembly 156. The flexible hinge 152 is pivotably
coupled to the free end of the first heating assembly 12 and
extends into the lower arm assembly 156 through an opening 158
therein. The flexible hinge 152 is configured to slide into the
lower arm assembly 156 as the hair styling apparatus 150 is moved
from an opened position to a closed position. The flexible hinge
152 facilitates reducing the likelihood that the user's hair will
fall into the air gap 16 during use of the hair styling apparatus
150. The upper arm assembly 158 and the lower arm assembly 156 are
substantially identical, and therefore, for ease of explanation,
only the lower arm assembly 156 is described in detail herein, with
the understanding that the features of the lower arm assembly 156
apply equally to the upper arm assembly 158.
[0052] FIG. 15 is a side view of an eight embodiment of a hair
styling apparatus 160 having heating assemblies 162, 164 spaced
apart from a handle 166 of the apparatus by insulating air gaps
168, 170. In the exemplary embodiment, the hair styling apparatus
160 includes two generally elongate heating assemblies 162, 164 for
use in straightening the user's hair when using the apparatus. The
heating assemblies 162, 164 are coupled to handle 166 of the hair
styling apparatus 160 such that insulating air gaps 168, 170 are
defined between the respective heating assemblies 162, 164 and the
handle 166. The air gaps 168, 170 facilitate reducing the
temperature of the handle 166 when the heating assemblies 162, 164
are producing heat.
[0053] In the exemplary embodiment, the handle 166 of the hair
styling apparatus 160 is generally elongate with opposite
longitudinal ends, and includes first and second arms (lower and
upper arms as illustrated in FIG. 15), generally indicated at 172
and 174, respectively. The first and second arms 172, 174 are
pivotably coupled to each other by a suitable pivot connection,
generally indicated at 176, at one of the longitudinal ends of the
handle 166. The first and second arms 172, 174 are moveable
relative to each other about a pivot axis of the pivot connection
176 such that the hair styling apparatus 160 is positionable
between a closed position (not shown) and an opened position (FIG.
15) of the hair styling apparatus 160.
[0054] In the exemplary embodiment, a biasing member, for example,
without limitation, a compression spring (not shown but similar to
compression spring 28 of FIGS. 5-7), is positioned between the
first and second arms 172, 174 adjacent the pivot connection 176.
In particular, the compression spring is seated within opposing
spring seats 178 formed on each of the arms 172, 174 to urge the
arms toward the opened position of the hair styling apparatus 160.
It is contemplated that other embodiments of the hair styling
apparatus 160 may not include the compression spring, but may
include an alternative biasing member, for example, without
limitation, a torsion spring integrated with the pivot connection
176.
[0055] In the exemplary embodiment, a heating assembly housing 180
is coupled to the first arm 172 and forms a bridge with the first
arm 172 to define the air gap 168. In particular, first and second
end portions 182, 184 of the housing 180 are coupled to first arm
172 such that a center portion 186 of the housing 180 is spaced
from the first arm 172 to define the insulating air gap 168. The
center portion 186 of the housing 180 includes a framework in which
a heat plate 188 is mounted. In one suitable embodiment, the heat
plate 188 is rigidly mounted to the housing 180. In other
embodiments, the heat plate 188 is flexibly mounted to the housing
180 such that heat plate is moveable in a direction generally
perpendicular to a hair-heating surface 190 of the heat plate 188.
In one suitable embodiment, the flexibly mounted heat plate 188 has
a travel distance of about 1 millimeter.
[0056] In the exemplary embodiment, the heat plate 188 is
substantially identical to the heat plate assembly 70 of FIGS. 6,
7. Alternatively, the heat plate 188 can be any type of heating
device that enables hair styling apparatus 160 to function as
described herein. The first arm assembly 172 and the second arm
assembly 174 are substantially identical, and therefore, for ease
of explanation, only the first arm assembly 172 is described in
detail herein, with the understanding that the features of the
first arm assembly 172 apply equally to the second arm assembly
174.
[0057] In operation, the heating assemblies 162, 164 of the first
and second arms 172, 174 are positioned so that in the closed
position of the hair styling apparatus 160 they sandwich hair
therebetween. The bridge configuration of the heating assemblies
162, 164 and the first and second arms 172, 174, respectively,
functions to define the insulating air gaps 168, 170, respectively.
The air gaps facilitate reducing the heat transferred from the
heating assemblies 162, 164 to the first and second arms 172,
174.
[0058] FIG. 16 is a side view of a ninth embodiment of a hair
styling apparatus 200 having heating assemblies 162, 164 spaced
apart from the handle 166 of the apparatus by the insulating air
gaps 168, 170. In this embodiment, a heating assembly housing 202
is coupled to the first arm 172 and forms a fixed cantilever
structure with the first arm 172 to define the air gap 168. In
particular, an end portion 204 of the housing 202 is coupled to
first arm 172 such that a center portion 206 of the housing 202 is
spaced from the first arm 172 to define the insulating air gap 168.
The first arm assembly 172 and the second arm assembly 174 are
substantially identical, and therefore, for ease of explanation,
only the first arm assembly 172 is described in detail herein, with
the understanding that the features of the first arm assembly 172
apply equally to the second arm assembly 174. Furthermore, other
elements of the hair styling apparatus 200 are substantially
similar to the elements of the hair styling apparatus 160 of FIGS.
15.
[0059] This written description uses examples to disclose the
invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person
skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and
using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated
methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the
claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled
in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope
of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ
from the literal language of the claims, or if they include
equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from
the literal languages of the claims.
[0060] As various changes could be made in the above constructions
without departing from the scope of the invention, it is intended
that all matter contained in the above description and shown in the
accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative and not
in a limiting sense.
* * * * *