U.S. patent application number 16/956950 was filed with the patent office on 2020-10-22 for hair treatment apparatus with improved sealing.
This patent application is currently assigned to SEB S.A.. The applicant listed for this patent is SEB S.A.. Invention is credited to Baptiste BONNEMAIRE, Martial MAISONNEUVE, Eddy NGO, Jerome TOUGOUCHI.
Application Number | 20200329840 16/956950 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000004943699 |
Filed Date | 2020-10-22 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20200329840 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
BONNEMAIRE; Baptiste ; et
al. |
October 22, 2020 |
Hair Treatment Apparatus With Improved Sealing
Abstract
Hair treatment apparatus having: -first and second arms which
are movable with respect to each other and can adopt a spaced-apart
configuration, for introduction of a lock of hair between them, and
a closed configuration for treatment of the lock of hair, first and
second contact surfaces carried respectively by the first and
second arms and arranged opposite each other, at least one of the
contact surfaces providing heat, -at least one steam outlet carried
by one of the arms at a distance from the contact surface situated
on the same arm, in order to expose the hairs engaged between the
arms to the steam, -at least the first arm having at least one
first part supporting the first contact surface and at least one
second part distinct from the first part and separated from the
latter, -an elastically deformable sealing element having a
proximal portion extending at least partially around the first
contact surface between the latter and the first support part, and
a distal portion extending in contact with the second part, the
proximal portion and the distal portion being connected by an
intermediate portion extending between the first and second parts
and configured to form a screen to the steam.
Inventors: |
BONNEMAIRE; Baptiste; (Lyon,
FR) ; MAISONNEUVE; Martial; (Villefontaine, FR)
; NGO; Eddy; (Lyon, FR) ; TOUGOUCHI; Jerome;
(Villleneuve De Marc, FR) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
SEB S.A. |
Ecully |
|
FR |
|
|
Assignee: |
SEB S.A.
Ecully
FR
|
Family ID: |
1000004943699 |
Appl. No.: |
16/956950 |
Filed: |
December 21, 2018 |
PCT Filed: |
December 21, 2018 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/EP2018/086741 |
371 Date: |
June 22, 2020 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A45D 2/001 20130101;
A45D 2001/008 20130101; A45D 1/04 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A45D 1/04 20060101
A45D001/04; A45D 2/00 20060101 A45D002/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Dec 22, 2017 |
FR |
1763176 |
Claims
1. The device for treating the hair, comprising: a first and a
second arms movable with respect to each other, configured to take
on a configuration where the first and second arms are apart in
order to introduce a lock of hair between them, and a configuration
where the first and second arms are closed for the treatment of the
lock of hair, where first and second contact surfaces are carried
respectively by the first and second arms, arranged opposite, with
at least one of said contact surfaces configured to heat up; at
least one steam outlet carried by one of the first and second arms
at a distance from the corresponding contact surface located on the
same arm, in order to expose the hair engaged between the first and
second arms to steam, wherein at least the first arm comprises at
least a first part for supporting the first contact surface and at
least one second part different from the first part and separate
from the first part, an elastically deformable sealing element
comprising a proximal portion extending at least partially around
the first contact surface between the second part and the first
part and a distal portion extending in contact with the second
part, the proximal and distal portions connected by an intermediate
portion extending between the first and second parts and configured
to form a steam screen.
2. The device according to claim 1, wherein the proximal portion
extends around the entire periphery of the first contact
surface.
3. The device according to claim 1, wherein the proximal portion is
pinched between the first contact surface and a rib of the first
part, having a cross section, generally H-shaped, with a groove
engaged in a return of the first contact surface and an opposite
groove engaged in said rib of the first part.
4. The device according to the preceding claim 1, wherein the
distal portion is pinched between the second part and a third
internal part of the first arm.
5. The device according to claim 4, wherein the second part has a
groove in which the distal portion is received at least partially,
and wherein the third part has a rib applying on the distal portion
directly above said groove.
6. The device according to claim 1, wherein said intermediate
portion has at least one bend in cross section.
7. The device according to claim 6, wherein the intermediate
portion is curved concave towards the opposite arm, with a U-shaped
bottom in the cross section.
8. The device according to claim 1, wherein the first contact
surface has a generally rectangular contour and the intermediate
portion and the distal portion extend around three of the four
sides of the first contact surface only.
9. The device according to claim 8, wherein the intermediate
portion and the distal portion are absent from the side of the
first contact surface furthest from said at least one steam
outlet.
10. The device according to claim 1, wherein the first contact
surface is pivotally mounted on the first arm by a ball joint.
11. The device according to claim 1, wherein the intermediate
portion has a height which varies along at least one side of the
first surface contact.
12. The device according to claim 11, wherein the height of the
intermediate portion is minimal, substantially at mid-length of at
least one side of the first contact surface and grows towards the
ends of said side.
13. The device, according to claim 1, wherein the sealing element
has a shape that is not symmetrical with respect to a median plane
passing through the first contact surface parallel to a
longitudinal axis of the device and perpendicular to the heated
surface of the first contact surface facing the second contact
surface.
14. The device, according to claim 1, wherein the sealing element
is present on one of the first and second arms, and said at least
one steam outlet is carried by the other of the first and second
arms.
15. The device, according to claim 1, further comprising a
cartridge containing a cosmetic composition, the second part
serving to support said cartridge, and having a slide in which the
cartridge is engaged.
16. The device, according to claim 1, wherein the second part faces
said at least one steam outlet.
17. The device, according to claim 1, further comprising at least
one comb comprising at least one row of teeth, the comb carried by
the second arm.
18. The device, according to claim 1, further comprising a confined
area around said at least one steam outlet.
19. The device according to claim 18, wherein the confined area is
delimited by at least one of the following elements: a cartridge of
composition to be applied to the lock of hair, a comb and a
containment structure disposed substantially opposite said at least
one steam outlet, wherein the containment structure comprises at
least one groove facing said at least one steam outlet (20) and,
when the device comprises a comb, a cover of said comb, the second
part, one side of the first and of the second surfaces of contact,
or any other element of the device partially creating a confinement
around said at least one steam outlet.
20. The device, according to claim 1, further comprising a seal
positioned behind said at least one steam outlet behind the last
nozzle, on the side of the grip area of the device, wherein said
seal is fixed on the second arm, and is configured to come into
contact with the first arm in position close to the first and
second arms, and wherein the seal is arranged between the end of
said at least one steam outlet and a pivot connection allowing the
first and second arms to form a clamp.
21. The device according to claim 4, wherein the third part has an
elongated wall in a direction of the grip area of the device,
towards the rear of the device.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to a hair treatment device,
and, more particularly, a device comprising a steam spraying
device.
STATE OF THE PRIOR ART
[0002] It is known to straighten hair with a straightening clamp,
such a device also being called a straightener. This clamp allows
hair fibers to be smoothed at high temperature without pulling on
the hair, unlike brushing. However, in order to obtain a good
smooth appearance, it is necessary to make several passes of the
clamp, which considerably lengthens the treatment time.
Furthermore, the repeated application of the straightening clamp
can sometimes cause the degradation of the hair fibers, due to the
temperature to which the hair is exposed.
[0003] It is known to use steam for the treatment of hair, for
example, associated with a treatment with hot plates, the steam
being sprayed or diffused on the hair. Such a method can be
implemented by a hair treatment device and/or be associated with
different cosmetic hair treatments. Examples include documents EP
659 395, EP 659 393, EP 659 396, EP 659 397, US 2004/0000319, US
2004/0045570, JP 2000157322, EP1396207, EP1515628, EP1515629,
EP1516554, FR 2967017, and WO 2004/002262.11, and it is also known
to position a seal around the heating plates of a smoothing
device.
[0004] JP 3609064 describes a straightener, each smoothing plate of
which is fitted with a seal ensuring tightness in the event of
humidity, but also electrical leaks at the level of the case.
[0005] WO 2005/011434 discloses a straightener, each smoothing
plate of which is equipped with a seal ensuring the tightness of
the plates with the case in the event of steam being released.
[0006] JP 2005087629 describes a straightener, each smoothing plate
of which is fitted with a seal between the plate and the case.
[0007] FR 3 015 195 relates to a hair treatment device comprising
two arms which are movable relative to one another between a close
configuration of hair treatment and a spaced configuration of
engagement between the hair to be treated. At least one of the arms
has a seal.
[0008] US 2016/360846 relates to a hair treatment device comprising
two movable arms, with each arm comprising a seal insulating the
heating part of the handle. CN205884964 and CN 205866296 also
relate to straighteners.
[0009] Hair treatment devices comprising a water steaming device,
such as that described by FR 2 967 017 in the form of steam with
high steaming rates, generally include steam outlet nozzles located
on the outside of the device. In this case, the steam is supplied
to the outside, in an infinite volume of air, so that the various
parts of the device are not or are only slightly exposed to the
steam.
[0010] On the other hand, as soon as the steam outlet nozzles are
placed towards the interior of the device, the steam is then
dispensed in a restricted volume of air. This results in different
problems. Indeed, the steam seeking to escape from this restricted
volume will partly enter the device, and will condense either in
contact with cold areas, or during the cooling of the device, thus
risking damaging the device and causing malfunctions. Finally, the
steam which has not entered the device escapes along the outside of
the shells of the device. With these shells being cold,
particularly at the start of treatment, the steam that condenses on
these external surfaces creates condensation drips or drops, which
can annoy the user.
[0011] Thus, there is a need to benefit from a hair treatment
device implementing a steam diffusion, which fixes all or part of
the problems encountered.
PRESENTATION OF THE INVENTION
[0012] The invention aims to meet this need and it achieves it by
means of a hair treatment device comprising:
[0013] a first and a second arm movable with respect to each other,
which can take on a configuration where they are apart in order to
introduce a lock of hair between them, and a configuration where
they are closed for the treatment of the lock of hair, where the
first and second contact surfaces are carried respectively by the
first and second arms, arranged opposite, with at least one of said
contact surfaces being able to heat up.
[0014] at least one steam outlet carried by one of the arms at a
distance from the contact surface located on the same arm, to
expose to steam the hair engaged between the arms,
[0015] at least the first arm comprising at least one first piece
for supporting the first contact surface and at least one second
piece, different from the first one and separated from it,
[0016] a sealing element, elastically deformable, comprising a
proximal portion extending at least partially around the first
contact surface between the latter and the first support part and a
distal portion extending in contact with the second part, the
proximal and distal portions being connected by an intermediate
portion extending between the first and second parts and forming a
steam screen.
[0017] Thanks to the invention, there is a device limiting the
amount of steam which can penetrate into an interior space of the
arms by the presence of the sealing element. In other words, the
case (that is to say the shell) which forms the wall of the arms is
sealed vis-a-vis the steam projected by the device.
[0018] The term "hair" includes the corresponding human or animal
keratin fibers, as well as synthetic fibers called "extensions"
that are sometimes attached to the natural hair of a person by
various means, in particular by bonding, in order, for example, to
modify the appearance of a person's natural hair.
[0019] Preferably, at least the first contact surface, and
preferably each of the contact surfaces, is pivotally mounted on
the corresponding arm, for example, by means of a ball joint or
something similar. The presence of the intermediate portion on the
sealing element allows the latter to deform to accompany the
pivoting of the contact surface, so that the movement of the latter
is not unduly hampered by the presence of the sealing element. The
contact surface can then pivot to best match the thickness of the
lock of hair in contact with it, and the efficiency of the heat
treatment is improved, while retaining a perfect seal thanks to the
presence of the three zones of the joint (proximal portion, distal
portion, and intermediate portion, which can become deformed).
[0020] The developed length of the intermediate portion, measured
in the cross section, may be greater than 6 mm, namely 7.5 mm, in
particular being between 7 mm and 13 mm, namely between 7.5 mm and
12 mm.
[0021] The intermediate portion connects the proximal and distal
parts so that one can have, if desired, a height and/or width
difference, that is to say, along a horizontal and/or vertical
plane, between the proximal portion and the distal portion,
preferably greater than 2 mm and advantageously substantially equal
to 3.5 mm. The proximal portion advantageously extends over the
entire periphery of the first contact surface. A seal is therefore
created around the entire periphery of this contact surface, thus
preventing water or any other element from entering the interior of
the device. In addition, this allows to strengthen the mechanical
fixing of the sealing element.
[0022] In one embodiment, the proximal portion is pinched between
the first contact surface and a rib of the first part, in
particular having generally an H-shaped cross section, with a
groove engaged in a return of the first contact surface and an
opposite groove engaged in said rib of the first part. This keeps
the proximal portion of the seal in place around the contact
surface in a sealed manner.
[0023] The distal portion of the sealing element can be pinched
between the second part and a third internal part of the first arm.
This keeps the sealing element in place, in a sealed manner, away
from the first contact surface. In this case, the second part may
have a groove in which the distal portion is received at least
partially, and the third part has a rib applying to the distal
portion directly above said groove.
[0024] Said intermediate portion advantageously has at least one
bend in the cross section. In the latter case, the intermediate
portion is for example concave, curved towards the opposite arm,
preferably the arm carrying said at least one steam outlet, in
particular with a U-shaped bottom in the cross section. The
intermediate portion may include several elbows, as a sort of
bellows, such as, for example, an accordion bellows.
[0025] The width of the intermediate portion of the joint, measured
in a plane that is perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the
device, is preferably greater than or equal to 1 mm.
[0026] The presence and the shape of the sealing element, with the
proximal, intermediate, and distal portions allows for creating an
effective barrier against the steam so that it does not penetrate
inside the device, along the first contact surface. In addition,
the intermediate portion has a flexibility which allows it to
accept a greater tolerance for positioning the first and second
parts relative to each other. This variation in positioning between
the first and second parts can indeed be unintentional, as a result
for example of a variation in manufacturing, or on the contrary and
advantageously, it may be voluntary, as a result of controlled
mobility of the first contact surface. According to this
advantageous embodiment, the first part is preferably connected by
a ball joint with the case of the device, in such a way that it
allows for providing different degrees of freedom to the smoothing
contact surface so that the latter can best adapt to the thickness
and positioning of the lock of hair. Such an assembly is known to a
person skilled in the art or, for example, with document FR3011449,
and it is therefore not detailed here.
[0027] The first contact surface may have a generally rectangular
contour and the intermediate portion and the distal portion may
extend around three of the four sides of the first contact surface
only. This limits the space associated with the sealing element
and, therefore, the width of the device while forming a steam
screen. In this case, the intermediate portion and the distal
portion are advantageously absent from the side of the first
contact surface furthest from said at least one steam outlet. In
other words, the sealing element then only comprises a bellows on
three of these four sides, thus offering a remarkable compromise
between sealing, flexibility, and volume.
[0028] The intermediate portion may have a height which varies
along one side at least of the first contact surface, and, better,
along each side of the first contact surface. In this case, the
height of the intermediate portion is preferably minimal,
substantially at mid-length of at least one side of the first
contact surface and increases towards the ends of said side to be
at its maximum at the corners. This difference in height is
advantageously provided to allow the movements of the contact
surface in the event of the pivoting of the latter, and the
amplitude of these movements increases with distance from the
center of the rotation. The developed length of the intermediate
portion, measured in the cross section, is thus maximal at the
angles, being at this location, for example, between 10 and 13 mm
approximately, being preferably equal to 11.7 mm. The developed
length of the intermediate portion, measured in the cross section,
is minimal in the middle of the sides, being at this location, for
example, between 6 mm and 10 mm approximately, preferably being
equal to 7.9 mm.
[0029] The sealing element has, in one embodiment, a shape that is
not symmetrical with respect to a median plane passing through the
first contact surface parallel to a longitudinal axis of the device
and perpendicular to a heating surface of the first contact surface
facing the second contact surface. This lack of symmetry is related
to the lack of an intermediate portion and a distal portion on one
of the sides of the first contact surface and allows to reduce, as
explained above, the width of the device, without however damaging
the sealing.
[0030] The sealing element is preferably present on a single arm,
said at least one steam outlet then being carried by the other arm.
Advantageously, the concave curved portion of the sealing element
is slightly offset from the steam outlet, for example, by being
offset by 7 mm.
[0031] The device may include a cartridge containing a cosmetic
composition. In this case, the second part can serve as a support
for said cartridge, in particular having a slide in which the
cartridge is engaged.
[0032] Still in this case, the cartridge may comprise a porous
material impregnated with said composition, in particular a felt,
and the second part comprise a rib applying against said porous
material, on the side opposite to the sealing element, the rib
penetrating preferably partially in said porous material. Thus, the
second part with its rib forms a seal with the porous material with
respect to the steam emitted by said at least one steam outlet,
which moreover does not generate any additional cost.
[0033] As a variant, the device may not include a reservoir for a
cosmetic composition, nor an applicator for a cosmetic
composition.
[0034] The second part advantageously faces said at least one steam
outlet.
[0035] The device may also include at least one comb comprising at
least one row of teeth, the comb preferably being carried by the
second arm.
[0036] The device advantageously comprises a confined zone around
said at least one steam outlet. "Confined area" means at least one
part or set of parts which allows at least partial confinement of
the steam generated by said at least one steam outlet. This
confined area can be delimited by at least one of the following
elements: a cartridge of composition to be applied to the lock of
hair, a comb, a confinement structure disposed substantially
opposite said at least one steam outlet, such containment structure
comprising, for example, at least one groove opposite said at least
one steam outlet and possibly, when the device comprises a comb, a
covering of said comb, the second part, one side of the first and
of the second contact surface, and any other element of the device
partially creating a confinement around said at least one steam
outlet.
[0037] The presence of this confined area makes the presence of the
sealing element all the more useful.
[0038] The confinement, at least partial, allows to accumulate
locally more steam in the volume between said at least one steam
outlet and the confinement structure, which can lead to a reduction
in the flow of steam necessary for treating the hair. You can
decrease the amount of steam needed for treatment, therefore
extending the autonomy of the device and decreasing the amount of
residual moisture from the hair leaving the device. In addition,
the confined area can contribute to a better distribution of the
steam longitudinally, between the steam outlets. The lock of hair
can thus be treated more evenly in the transverse direction.
Furthermore, the relative partitioning created by the confined zone
allows for applying most of the steam only locally, during the
passage of the lock of hair in the zone situated at the level of
said at least one steam outlet.
[0039] The device according to the invention can be autonomous,
with an integrated water tank, or include a handpiece which is
formed by the arms and a base station to which the handpiece is
connected, which comprises a tank containing the water for steam
production.
[0040] The cumulative steam flow rate for (all of) the steam
outlet(s) is preferably between 0.5 and 1.1 g/min, being preferably
less than or equal to 3.5 g/min, and, better still, less than or
equal to 1 g/min, for example, between 0.7 g/min and 0.9 g/min.
[0041] Said at least one steam outlet advantageously comprises at
least one steam ejection channel and at least one steam ejection
nozzle. This channel can be oriented perpendicular to the
longitudinal axis of the corresponding arm. The nozzle can have the
same orientation; thus, the steam is emitted in a direction
perpendicular to the contact surfaces, that is to say, in a
direction perpendicular to the direction of travel of the lock of
hair in the device. Preferably, the nozzle(s) is/are of conical
shape with a circular section, the section of the nozzles widening
in the direction of the outlet of the nozzles. Each steam ejection
nozzle is preferably mounted at one end of each steam ejection
channel. The nozzles can be identical to each other. The channels
can be identical to each other.
[0042] The steam outlet(s) is/are preferably supplied with steam by
a steaming chamber which is itself supplied with water by a pump.
The steam is preferably water steam, in particular without
additives.
[0043] The device may include a device for heating the first
contact surface consisting of a thermistor with a positive
temperature coefficient, known as PTC, and a device for measuring
the temperature of the heating device consisting of a thermistor
with a negative temperature coefficient, called NTC.
[0044] When the device includes a thermistor with a positive
temperature coefficient and a thermistor with a negative
coefficient, these can advantageously be arranged behind the first
contact surface, and the device can include two plugs, in
particular made of silicone, arranged at the longitudinal ends of
the case which receives them. This protects the PTC and NTC
thermistors from any possible presence of condensate which could
shorten leak lines and generate a risk for the user.
[0045] Each plug is advantageously perforated with two holes in
order to allow the wires of the NTC thermistor to pass in front of
the first contact surface and the wires of the PTC thermistor to
the rear of the first contact surface.
[0046] The device may include a cartridge detection switch, this
switch being in a case comprising two parts, which can be welded by
ultrasound. The passage of wires from the switch and from a movable
finger for detecting the cartridge can be achieved by seals, in
particular made of silicone, wedged between the two parts of the
case before welding.
[0047] When steam is emitted in a confined area, it cannot escape
vertically or laterally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of
the device. Thus, the steam can escape longitudinally, from the
front of the device or from the rear, from the side of a grip area
of the device. The grip area is a cooler area. It is not desirable
for the steam to escape towards the grip area, which is located in
the hand of the user during the operation of the device, because of
the risk of associated discomfort, or even of burns. The device can
thus include a seal positioned behind said at least one steam
outlet, in particular behind the last nozzle, on the side of the
grip area of the device. This seal is fixed, for example, on the
second arm, and is configured to come into contact with the first
arm in position close to the arms. The seal is preferably arranged
between the end of said at least one steam outlet and a pivot
connection allowing the arms to form a clamp. It is intended to
extend, in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of
the device, behind the contact surfaces and behind said at least
one steam outlet, so as to produce a rear partition forcing the
steam to escape at the front of the device.
[0048] The aforementioned third part may advantageously have an
elongated wall in the direction of the grip area of the device,
towards the rear of the latter. The third part is at least in
indirect contact with the first contact surface. Thus, as soon as
the device is switched on, the third part is heated and can, by its
elongated wall in the direction of the grip area, accelerate the
heating of the shell of the first arm, so as to limit the risk of
condensation of steam on the internal and external surfaces of this
shell.
[0049] The steaming chamber is advantageously supported by a
support element in the second arm. The support element of the
steaming chamber may have an elongated wall towards the grip area
of the device. This provides heat to the inner and outer surfaces
of the shell of the second arm in order to limit condensation on
these surfaces.
[0050] Another subject of the invention, according to another of
its aspects, in combination or independently of all or part of the
above, is a hair treatment device comprising:
[0051] a first and a second arm movable with respect to each other,
which can take on a configuration where they are apart in order to
introduce a lock of hair between them, and a configuration where
they are closed for the treatment of the lock of hair, where the
first and second contact surfaces are carried respectively by the
first and second arms, arranged opposite, with at least one of said
contact surfaces being able to heat up.
[0052] at least one steam outlet carried by one of the arms at a
distance from the contact surface located on the same arm, to
expose to steam the hair engaged between the arms,
[0053] a device for heating the first contact surface made up of a
thermistor with a positive temperature coefficient, called PTC, and
a device for measuring the temperature of the heating device made
up of a thermistor with a negative temperature coefficient, called
NTC, the PTC thermistor and the CTN thermistor being arranged
behind the first contact surface, the device comprising two plugs,
in particular made of silicone, arranged at the longitudinal ends
of the case housing the thermistor and the temperature measuring
device.
[0054] This protects the PTC and NTC thermistors from any possible
presence of condensate which could, as mentioned above, shorten
leak lines and generate a risk for the user.
[0055] Each plug is advantageously perforated with two holes in
order to allow the wires of the NTC thermistor to pass in front of
the first contact surface and the wires of the PTC thermistor to
the rear of the first contact surface.
[0056] Another subject of the invention, according to another of
its aspects, in combination or independently of all or part of the
above, is a hair treatment device comprising:
[0057] a first and a second arm movable with respect to each other,
which can take on a configuration where they are apart in order to
introduce a lock of hair between them, and a configuration where
they are closed for the treatment of the lock of hair, where the
first and second contact surfaces are carried respectively by the
first and second arms, arranged opposite, with at least one of said
contact surfaces being able to heat up.
[0058] at least one steam outlet, comprising in particular at least
one nozzle, carried by one of the arms at a distance from the
contact surface located on the same arm, for exposing the hair
engaged between the arms,
[0059] a seal positioned behind said at least one steam outlet, in
particular behind the last nozzle, on the side of the grip area of
the device, said seal being fixed on the second arm, and being
configured to come into contact with the first arm in position
close to the arms, the seal preferably being arranged between the
end of said at least one steam outlet and a pivot connection
allowing the arms to form clamp.
[0060] Such a seal may be provided to extend, in a direction
perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the device, behind the
contact surfaces and behind said at least one steam outlet, so as
to produce a rear partition to force steam to escape from the front
of the device.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0061] The invention will be better understood on reading the
detailed description which follows, of non-limiting examples of
implementation thereof, and on examining the appended drawing, in
which:
[0062] FIG. 1 shows schematically, in side perspective, a
processing example of device of the hair according to the
invention,
[0063] FIG. 2 schematically represents, in perspective seen from
the other side, the device of FIG. 1, the device having been turned
over,
[0064] FIG. 3 schematically represents, in frontal perspective, the
device of FIG. 1,
[0065] FIG. 4 is a schematic and partial side view of an example of
a device according to the invention,
[0066] FIG. 5 is a schematic view, in cross section, of the device
of FIG. 1,
[0067] FIG. 6 is a schematic view, in cross section, of another
example of device according to the invention,
[0068] FIG. 7 is a schematic and partial view, in cross section and
in perspective, of a detail of the device of FIG. 6,
[0069] FIG. 8 is a schematic and partial view, in longitudinal
section and in perspective, of another detail of the device of FIG.
6,
[0070] FIG. 9 is a schematic and partial view, in cross section and
in perspective, of another detail of the device of FIG. 6
[0071] FIG. 10 is a schematic perspective view, in isolation, of
the switch box of the device of FIG. 6,
[0072] FIG. 11 is a schematic and partial view, in longitudinal
section and in perspective, of a detail of the device of FIG.
6,
[0073] FIG. 12 is a schematic and partial view, in cross section
and in perspective, of another detail of the device of FIG. 6,
[0074] FIG. 13 is a schematic and partial view, in longitudinal
section and in perspective, of another detail of the device of FIG.
6,
[0075] FIG. 14 is a schematic and partial view, in longitudinal
section and in perspective, of a detail of the device of FIG. 6,
and
[0076] FIG. 15 is an isolated, schematic, and perspective view of
the sealing element of the device of FIG. 5.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS
[0077] In the following description, identical elements or
identical functions bear the same reference sign. Their detailed
description is not repeated in relation to each of the figures, and
only the main differences between the embodiments are
mentioned.
[0078] FIG. 1 shows a device 1 for treating the hair, in accordance
with an exemplary embodiment according to the invention.
[0079] In the example illustrated, the device 1 is autonomous, with
an integrated water tank 2. Only part of the electrical supply cord
3 is visible in FIGS. 1 and 2.
[0080] The device 1 comprises a first arm 4 and a second arm 5
extending along a longitudinal axis Y of the device 1, movable
relative to each other, which can assume a configuration where they
are apart for the introduction of a lock of hair between them and a
configuration where they are closed for treatment of the lock of
hair. FIGS. 1, 2, and 3 in particular illustrate this latter
configuration. FIG. 4 represents, within a device 1, the
configuration separated from the first and second arms 4 and 5 for
introducing a lock of hair between them.
[0081] The first and second arms 4 and 5 are hinged together by
means of a pivot link 6 so as to form a clamp. The case of each of
the first and second arms 4 and 5 comprises a shell, respectively
referenced 17 and 18, which houses different constituent elements.
The first and second arms 4 and 5 are movable in the close
configuration along the lock of hair to be treated and comprise
respective proximal parts 4a and 5a, which can be concomitantly
grasped with one hand to manipulate the device 1.
[0082] The first and second arms 4 and 5 also comprise respective
distal parts 4b and 5b, equipped with opposite first and second
corresponding plates 10 and 11, which allow the hair to be pinched
between them.
[0083] The first and second plates 10 and 11 define the first and
second respective contact surfaces 12 and 13, which heat up.
"Contact" means contact with the lock of hair or any other hair
fiber as mentioned above.
[0084] In the example illustrated, the first and second contact
surfaces 12 and 13 are substantially planar.
[0085] The first plate 10 is heated by at least one resistive
heating element 15, in this case a PTC thermistor, housed in a case
22 of the first arm 4, not far from the contact surface 12. As a
variant, the first and second plates 10 and 11 are each heated by a
separate heating device, in which case another resistive heating
element is mounted in the case 23, for example.
[0086] It should be noted that variants of shapes are possible for
the first and second contact surfaces 12 and 13. One can, for
example, implement curved surfaces, as on certain hairdressing
devices allowing the curling of the hair, or even make it wavy,
like those used in hair crimpers, or even equipped with many
protuberances, like teeth for example. Preferably, the contact
surfaces are then complementary so as to grab the lock of hair
well.
[0087] The device 1 also comprises at least one steam outlet 20, in
this case several outlets, carried by the second arm 5, in this
example, at a distance from the second plate 11, to expose the hair
engaged between the first and second arm 4 and 5 when they are in
this steam application zone.
[0088] The device 1 comprises at least one comb 30 comprising at
least one row of teeth 31, the comb 30 in this example being
carried by the second arm 5. The comb may include rigid teeth
and/or flexible bristles such as, for example, tufts of silk
bristles or a combination of rigid teeth and flexible bristles.
[0089] In this example, the first arm 4 comprises at least a first
part 40 for supporting the first plate 10 and at least one second
part 41 distinct from the first and separated from the latter.
[0090] The device 1 also comprises, in accordance with the
invention, an elastically deformable sealing element 50, comprising
a proximal portion 51 extending at least partially around the first
plate 10 between the latter and the first part 40 and a distal
portion 52 extending in contact with the second part 41, the
proximal 51 and distal 52 portions being connected by an
intermediate portion 53 extending between the first and second
parts 40 and 41.
[0091] The width h of the intermediate portion 53, measured in a
plane transverse to the longitudinal axis Y of the device 1, can be
greater than 1 mm, being in particular less than 4 mm.
[0092] The developed length of the intermediate portion 53 measured
in a transverse plane can be greater than 5 mm, in particular 7
mm.
[0093] The intermediate portion 53 connects the proximal 51 and
distal 52 parts, so that there can be a drop .DELTA.h, between a
low point P of the proximal portion 51 and a low point Q of the
distal part 52, for example, visible in FIG. 5, preferably greater
than 2 mm, etc., being for example less than 6 mm, being for
example substantially equal to 3.6 mm.
[0094] The total height of the sealing element 50, which
corresponds to the distance measured between the point P and the
top of the concave part of the intermediate portion 53 is
preferably between 5 and 15 mm, knowing that this height varies
according to the cross section of the sealing element 50. In
particular, as can be seen in FIG. 15, this height is minimal in
the middle of the length while it is maximal in the corners.
Advantageously, the minimum height is substantially equal to 8 mm
and the maximum height is substantially equal to 10 mm.
[0095] The proximal portion 51 extends over the entire periphery of
the first plate 10.
[0096] As can be seen in FIG. 5, the proximal portion 51 of the
sealing element 50 is pinched between the first plate 10 and a rib
55 of the first part 40. In this example, the proximal portion 51
has a generally H-shaped cross section. The proximal portion 51 has
a groove 56 engaged in a return 57 of the first plate 10 and an
opposite groove 58 engaged in the rib 55 of the first part 40.
[0097] The distal portion 52 is pinched between the second part 41
and a third internal part 42 of the first arm 4, formed in this
example by an internal part of the shell 17.
[0098] The intermediate portion 53 has at least one bend in cross
section. In the example illustrated, the intermediate portion 53 is
curved concave towards the opposite arm 5, with a U-shaped bottom
in cross section.
[0099] The first plate 10 has a generally rectangular outline with
four sides. The intermediate portion 53 and the distal portion 52
extend around three of the four sides of the first plate 10 only.
The intermediate portion 53 and the distal portion 52 are absent
from the side 16 of the first plate 10 furthest from said at least
one steam outlet 20. Thus, FIG. 5 shows the sealing element 50 on
the side of the first plate 10, which is opposite to the steam
outlet 20 which only has the proximal part 51. The other three
sides of the first plate 10, as can be seen in FIG. 15, are
surrounded by the assembly of the proximal part 51, the distal part
52 and the intermediate part 53 of the sealing element 50. This
allows to reduce the width of the device 1 without appreciably
affecting the seal.
[0100] In particular because of this, the sealing element 50 has a
non-symmetrical shape, as can be seen in particular in FIG. 15,
with respect to a median plane passing through the first plate 10
parallel to the longitudinal axis Y of the device 1 and
perpendicular to a contact surface 12 of the first plate 10 facing
the second plate 11.
[0101] Still in this example, the sealing element 50 is present on
a single arm, namely the first arm 4, said at least one steam
outlet 20 being carried by the other arm, namely the second arm 5.
Preferably the sealing element 50 and in particular the
intermediate portion 53 is located in the steam ejection zone,
possibly slightly offset from said at least one steam outlet 20 so
as to form a steam screen. "Slightly offset" means an offset of
between 2 and 15 mm and advantageously substantially equal to 7 mm
relative to the axis of ejection of the steam. Preferably, the
offset is towards the interior of the device.
[0102] In this example, the device 1 does not have a reservoir for
a cosmetic composition, nor an applicator for a cosmetic
composition.
[0103] The second part 41 faces said at least one steam outlet
20.
[0104] In the example shown, the device 1 comprises a confined zone
90 around said at least one steam outlet 20. The confined zone 90
is delimited in this example by the confinement structure 21 formed
by the second part 41 which allows at least partial confinement of
the steam emitted by the device. This confinement structure 21
comprises in this example a groove 25 facing the steam outlets 20.
The confined area 90 is also delimited by the comb 30. The
containment structure 21 also includes a cover 91 of said comb
30.
[0105] The first plate 10 is, in the example illustrated in FIG. 5
or 6, pivotally mounted on the first corresponding arm 4 via the
engagement of a head 110 in the form of a portion of a sphere,
formed in the first part 40, in a case defined by a cylindrical
wall 111 formed with the shell 17 of the first arm 4.
[0106] The support of the spherical surface of the head 110 on the
circular edge of the wall 111 creates a ball joint, which allows
the first plate 10 to pivot when the thickness of the lock of hair
which is pinched between the plates is not homogeneous or is not
placed in the center of the first plate 10, and thus with a greater
contact surface with the lock. FIG. 5 shows a helical spring 62
which is supported at one end against the bottom of the case
defined by the cylindrical wall 111 and at the other end against
the head 110. The deformability of the sealing element 50 thanks to
the intermediate portion 53 allows it to accompany this pivoting of
the first plate 10 while playing a role of barrier against the
steam. Indeed, the bellows shape of said intermediate portion 53
gives the sealing element remarkable flexibility, while its
proximal 51 and distal 53 portions are fixed, respectively with the
first plate 10 and the second part 41.
[0107] The lower part of the second arm 5 houses the steaming
chamber which allows the creation of steam which is then projected
through the outlets 20 passing through the channels 26 and nozzles
27.
[0108] Such a steaming chamber may include a heating device
consisting of a thermistor with a positive temperature coefficient,
called PTC, and a device for measuring the temperature of the
heating device consisting of a thermistor with a negative
temperature coefficient, called NTC.
[0109] The total steam flow delivered by all the steam outlets can
be between 0.5 g/min and 0.8 g/min or between 2 and 2.5 g/min.
[0110] The steaming chamber is itself supplied by means of an
electric pump and, in particular, of a peristaltic pump, itself
connected to the reservoir 2, these elements preferably being
located in the second arm 5.
[0111] The device 1 may also include an electronic card, not
illustrated, configured to manage the electrical supply of the
resistive heating elements in order to control the operating
temperature. This electronic card can be arranged inside one of the
two arms 4 or 5, for example in the proximal part 5a of the arm 5,
and have a user interface.
[0112] The device 1 may further comprise a magnetic sensor, not
illustrated, of the ILS flexible blade switch type, which allows to
detect the close configuration of the arms 4 and 5, in which the
surfaces 12 and 13 are substantially one against the other to grab
the lock of hair to be treated. In another variant, the flexible
blade switch could be replaced by a magneto-resistive sensor MRS,
or by any other detection means.
[0113] In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 6 to 14, the second
part 41 is different. In this example, as can be seen in particular
in FIG. 6, the second part 41 has a groove 60 in which the distal
portion 52 is received at least partially, the third part 42 having
a rib 61 applying to the distal portion 52 to the vertical to said
groove 60.
[0114] Still in this example, as in the previous example seen in
FIG. 15 and as seen in this example in FIGS. 7 and 8 in particular,
the intermediate portion 53 has a height h which varies along at
least one side of the first plate 10, and along each side of the
first plate 10 in which the intermediate portion 53 is present.
[0115] As seen in FIGS. 7 and 8, the height h of the intermediate
portion 53 is minimal, substantially at mid-length of at least one
side of the first plate 10 and increases towards the ends of said
side.
[0116] The difference in height h of the intermediate portion 53,
maximal at the corners of the sides of the first plate 10 and
minimal at the centers of the sides of the first plate 10, is in
particular chosen so as to allow the pivoting of the first plate
10. Indeed, the further one moves away from the head 110, the
higher the movements of the first plate 10 during a pivoting by a
given angle. These high amplitude movements are then remarkably
facilitated by the maximum difference in height h at the corners,
since the length of the bellows is then maximized.
[0117] In this example, the water tank is not integrated into the
device 1, but in a separate station.
[0118] As illustrated, the device 1 may include a cartridge 80
containing a cosmetic composition C to be applied to the hair, the
second part 41 serving to support said cartridge 80. The second
part 41 can then have a slide 81 in which the cartridge 80 is
engaged. The cartridge 80 comprises a porous material 82
impregnated with said composition C. In the example illustrated,
the porous material 82 is a felt. As can be seen in FIGS. 6 and 9,
the second part 41 has a rib 85 pressing against said porous
material 82, on the side opposite to the sealing element 50. In
this example, the rib 85 partially penetrates into the porous
material 82, as it is seen.
[0119] The cartridge 80 is also held in place in this example by
being engaged in a slide 86 of the device 1.
[0120] On the second arm 5, a spring 107 allows to press the hair,
during its passage, by pressing a surface 108 against the lower
edge 109 of the porous material 82, as seen in particular in FIG.
12.
[0121] In this example, the confined area 90 is delimited by the
cartridge 80, the comb 30, and one side of the first and second
plates 10 and 11.
[0122] In this example again, the device 1 comprises a device for
heating the first plate 10 consisting of a positive temperature
coefficient PTC thermistor 15 and a device for measuring the
temperature of the heating device consisting of a coefficient
thermistor negative NTC 101. The thermistors PTC 15 and NTC 101
are, as can be seen in FIG. 8, arranged behind the first plate 10.
The device 1 comprises two plugs 102, for example made of silicone,
arranged at their longitudinal ends. This protects thermistors 15
and 101 from any possible presence of condensate which could
shorten the lines of leakage and generate a risk for the user.
[0123] Each plug 102 is advantageously perforated with two holes,
not visible in the figure for the sake of clarity of the drawing,
in order to allow the wires of the thermistor 101 to pass through
the front of the first plate 10 and the wires of the thermistor 15
to the back of the first plate 10.
[0124] The device 1 also comprises, as can be seen in FIG. 10, a
switch 105 for detecting the presence of the cartridge, present in
a case 106 comprising two parts welded together by ultrasound. The
switch wires and a movable detection finger pass through seals, in
particular made of silicone, wedged between the two parts of the
case 106 before welding.
[0125] The device 1 also comprises, in this example, as can be seen
in FIGS. 11 and 12, a seal 120 positioned behind the last nozzle
27a, on the side of the grip area of the device. This seal 120 is
fixed on the second arm 5, and is configured to come into contact
with the first arm 4 in the position close to the arms 4 and 5. The
seal 120 is arranged between the last steam nozzle 27a and the
pivot link 6 allowing the arms to form a clamp. The seal 120
extends, in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of
the device, behind the plates 10 and 11 and behind the last nozzle
27a, so as to force the steam to escape through the front of the
device 1 and thus protect the grip area from the steam. There is
therefore no risk of the user's hand being burned and condensation
of the steam on the grip area is avoided. This also avoids the
formation of condensation on unidentified areas.
[0126] The third part 42 has, as can be seen in FIG. 13, a wall 112
extending in the direction of the grip area of the device 1,
towards the rear of the latter. This third part 42 is at least in
indirect contact with the first plate 10. Thus, as soon as the
device 1 is started up, the third part 42 is heated and can, by its
wall 112, accelerate the heating of the shell 17 of the first arm
4, so as to limit condensation on the internal surfaces and
external of this shell 17.
[0127] Likewise, as illustrated in FIG. 14, in the second arm 5,
the support element 114 of the steaming chamber may comprise a wall
115 elongated towards the grip area of the device 1. This allows to
bring heat to the internal and external surfaces of the shell 18 of
the second arm 5 in order to limit the condensation thereof.
* * * * *