CN218791006U

CN218791006U - Hair care implement

Info

Publication number: CN218791006U
Application number: CN202221509340.3U
Authority: CN
Inventors: 科尔比·杰克逊·希金斯; 亚当·乌德; 斯蒂芬·墨菲; 斯蒂芬·詹姆斯·戈登; 理查德·马蒂亚斯; 约书亚·托马斯·理查兹; 尼古拉斯·詹姆斯·萨达
Original assignee: Sharkninja Operating LLC
Current assignee: Sharkninja Operating LLC
Priority date: 2021-11-12
Filing date: 2022-06-15
Publication date: 2023-04-07
Anticipated expiration: 2032-06-15
Also published as: KR20240019253A; JP2024514916A; EP4467036A2; CN116114987A; JP2025020325A; AU2022383822A1; EP4233634A2; EP4179916B1; WO2023086687A1; EP4467036A3; EP4233633B1; EP4233633A1; EP4233634A3; EP4179916A1

Abstract

A hair care appliance is provided. The hair care appliance includes a handle and a body coupled to the handle via a swivel hinge joint. The main body is movable via the rotational hinge joint between a straight configuration in which the main body is aligned with a longitudinal axis of the handle and a curved configuration in which the main body extends along an axis transverse to the longitudinal axis of the handle. A fluid flow path extends between an inlet in the handle and an outlet in the body. The hair care appliance may be operated with minimal loss of fluid flow in the straight configuration and the bent configuration. The hair care appliance includes a fan assembly in the handle and a heater assembly in the body, the fan assembly and the heater assembly being positioned to form a center of mass of balance of the hair care appliance when operated by a user.

Description

Hair care appliance

Cross reference to related applications

Priority of U.S. provisional application No. 63/279,041 entitled "Hair Care Appliance (Hair Care Appliance)" filed 11/12/2021, by 35u.s.c. § 119 (e), the entire contents of which are hereby expressly incorporated herein by reference.

Technical Field

The utility model relates to a hair nursing utensil technical field, in particular to hair nursing utensil.

Background

Hair care appliances are devices for drying and styling hair. The hair care appliance may include various components for providing fluid flow via a fluid flow path extending through the device. The fluid flow path receives ambient air and directs the ambient air through the hair care appliance via the motor and fan assembly. A fluid flow path is directed across the heating assembly to generate heated air at an outlet of the hair care appliance. Air is expelled from the hair care appliance via the fluid flow path to enable a user to dry and style hair. Depending on the user's needs for hair styling or treatment, one or more accessories are typically used with the hair care appliance.

SUMMERY OF THE UTILITY MODEL

Generally, hair care devices and accessories for drying and/or styling hair are provided. In one embodiment, a hair care appliance is provided and may include a handle and a body movably coupled to each other at a joint such that the body is movable between a straight configuration in which the body may be longitudinally aligned with a longitudinal axis of the handle and a curved configuration in which the body may extend along an axis transverse to the longitudinal axis of the handle. The handle and the body may have a fluid flow path extending through the handle and the body from an inlet in the handle to an outlet in the body, and a first flow splitter disposed in the body and configured to separate fluid in the fluid flow path in both the straight configuration and the curved configuration.

In another embodiment, the first flow splitter may extend in a plane transverse to the longitudinal axis of the body. In another embodiment, the hair care appliance may comprise a second flow splitter in the handle. The second flow splitter can distribute the fluid flow in a uniform radial manner in the handle. In another embodiment, at least a portion of the joint may extend into the fluid flow path such that fluid flow through the joint is non-linear. In another embodiment, the joint may comprise a rotary joint rotatable about a plane extending at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the handle. In an exemplary embodiment, the angle may range from 30 to 50 degrees. In another embodiment, the hair care appliance may comprise a heater positioned between the diverter and the outlet. In another embodiment, the hair care appliance may comprise a heater positioned between the first flow divider and the outlet, the first flow divider being configured to direct the fluid flow through the heater in a radially uniform manner. The first flow splitter may be configured to equally distribute the fluid flow through the heater and the outlet into an upper portion and a lower portion. In another embodiment, the first diverter may include rounded edges to reduce turbulence of the fluid flow over the diverter. In another embodiment, the fluid flow path may be sealed within the handle and the body.

In another aspect, a hair care appliance is provided and may include a housing including a handle having an inlet, a body coupled to the handle and having an outlet, and a fluid flow path through the housing between the inlet and the outlet. The body is movable between a straight configuration in which the body extends along a longitudinal axis of the handle and a curved configuration in which the body extends along an axis transverse to the longitudinal axis of the handle. The hair care appliance may also include a fan assembly disposed within the housing and configured to generate a fluid flow along the fluid flow path from the inlet to the outlet at a flow rate. The flow rate in the curved configuration may be no less than 11% of the flow rate in the straight configuration.

In another embodiment, the body may extend obliquely to the handle in the curved configuration. In another embodiment, the handle may have a length greater than a length of the body. In another embodiment, the flow rate in the curved configuration may be in a range of about 18.0m/s to 31.5m/s, and the flow rate in the straight configuration may be in a range of about 18.5m/s to 35.5 m/s. The ratio of maximum flow rate to minimum flow rate can be used to demonstrate the consistency of the flow rates provided by the hair care appliance in the curved configuration and the straight configuration. For example, in an embodiment, the maximum to minimum ratio of the flow rates in the curved configuration may be about 1.7, and the maximum to minimum ratio of the flow rates in the straight configuration may be about 1.6. In another embodiment, the fan assembly may be disposed within the handle adjacent a pivot joint formed between the handle and the body.

In another aspect, a hair care appliance is provided and may include a handle and a body movably coupled to one another at a joint. The handle and the body may have a fluid flow path extending through the handle and the body from an inlet in the handle to an outlet in the body. The handle may have a Printed Circuit Board (PCB), a fan assembly having a central axis and a plurality of blades extending radially outward from the central axis, and a hub disposed between the PCB and the fan assembly. The hub may include a central dome, the hub configured to direct fluid flowing radially outward around the PCB to the plurality of blades.

In one embodiment, a hair care appliance is provided and may include a handle and a body coupled to the handle at a joint such that the body is movable between a straight configuration in which the body is alignable with a longitudinal axis of the handle and a curved configuration in which the body is extendable along an axis transverse to the longitudinal axis of the handle. The handle and the body may have a center of mass that is located below the longitudinal axis of the body and forward of the longitudinal axis of the handle in the bent configuration.

In another embodiment, the handle may include a first end defining an inlet and a second end at the joint, and the body may include a first end at the joint and a second end defining an outlet. In another embodiment, a printed circuit board may be located within the handle and positioned closer to the first end of the handle than the second end of the handle. In another embodiment, a motor and fan may be located within the handle and positioned closer to the second end of the handle than the first end of the handle. In another embodiment, a heater may be located within the body and positioned closer to the second end of the body than the first end of the body. In another embodiment, the hair care appliance may include a heater assembly located in the body and may have a center point radially offset from a longitudinal axis extending through the handle when the body is in the curved configuration. In another embodiment, the handle and the body may have a center of gravity that may be radially offset from a longitudinal axis of the handle and the body in the curved configuration and the straight configuration. The center of gravity in the curved configuration may be radially offset by a distance greater than a distance of the center of gravity in the straight configuration from the longitudinal axis.

In another aspect, a hair care appliance is provided and may include a handle and a body coupled to the handle at a joint such that the body is movable between a straight configuration in which the body is alignable with a longitudinal axis of the handle and a fully curved configuration in which the body extends along an axis transverse to the longitudinal axis of the handle, the handle and the body having an overall length in the straight configuration, and the handle having a length of about 2/3 of the overall length, and the body having a length of about 1/3 of the overall length.

In another embodiment, in the straight configuration, the joint may be configured to release the body from the handle to initiate rotation of the joint in response to a force in a range of about 3.1N to 3.6N. In another embodiment, in the bent configuration, the joint may be configured to release the body from the handle to initiate rotation of the joint in response to a force in a range of about 5.1N to 5.3N. In another embodiment, the joint may be configured to rotate in response to a force in a range of about 3.6N to 4.0N when the joint may be in a position between the straight configuration and the fully bent configuration. In another embodiment, the joint may be configured to rotate in response to a torque in a range of about 0.1N to 0.7N.

In another aspect, a hair care appliance is provided and may include a housing including a handle and a body coupled to the handle and movable between a straight configuration in which the body is alignable with a longitudinal axis of the handle and a curved configuration in which the body is extendable along an axis transverse to the longitudinal axis of the handle. The hair care appliance may include a fan assembly disposed within the housing and configured to direct fluid along a fluid flow path from a fluid inlet in the housing to a fluid outlet in the housing. The hair care appliance may include a heater assembly disposed within the housing and configured to heat fluid flowing through the fluid flow path. The body may be cylindrical with a constant outer diameter and the handle may be cylindrical with a tapered outer diameter.

In another embodiment, the hair care appliance may include a rotary joint rotatable to move the body relative to the handle in response to actuation of an actuation mechanism in the handle. In another embodiment, the swivel hinge joint may include a snap hinge assembly including a retainer and a washer on the retainer. In another embodiment, the snap hinge assembly may be positioned between a handle hinge plate and a body hinge plate, the handle hinge plate and the body hinge plate separated by a gap formed between the handle hinge plate and the body hinge plate. In another embodiment, the handle hinge panel may include a first plurality of snap-fit features configured to couple the handle hinge panel to a handle frame, and the body hinge panel may include a second plurality of snap-fit features configured to couple the body hinge panel to a body frame.

In another aspect, a hair care appliance is provided and may include a housing having a handle and a body. The housing may have a fluid inlet, a fluid outlet, and a fluid flow path extending through the housing between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet. The hair care appliance may also include a heater assembly disposed in the housing along the fluid flow path and configured to heat fluid flowing through the fluid flow path. The heater assembly may include an inner support structure including a central axis and a plurality of planar segments along and extending radially outward from the central axis. Each planar segment of the plurality of planar segments may be circumferentially spaced apart from one another. The heater assembly may include at least one wire element extending circumferentially around the internal support structure such that the internal support structure supports the at least one wire element. Each of the plurality of planar segments may include a cutout formed therein and configured to allow fluid to flow therethrough.

In another embodiment, the heater assembly may comprise a thermistor having a first connecting lead and a second connecting lead, the first and second connecting leads being mountable to at least one of the plurality of planar segments to suspend the thermistor in the fluid flow path at the fluid outlet. The first and second conductive lines may together form a U-shaped configuration. In another embodiment, the thermistor may be suspended between two adjacent planar segments of the plurality of segments via the first and second wires. The heater assembly may also include a fuse coupled to one of the two adjacent planar sections.

In another embodiment, the hair care appliance may comprise a swivel hinge joint between the handle and the body. Wiring for powering the heater assembly may run along the periphery of the swivel hinge joint and along the inner surfaces of the handle and the main body. In another embodiment, the cut formed in each of the plurality of planar segments may have a shape selected from the group consisting of a rectangular shape, a square shape, a circular shape, a geometric shape, or an elliptical shape. In another embodiment, the heater assembly further comprises an ionizer coupled to at least one of the plurality of planar segments. In another embodiment, the heater assembly further comprises a cylindrical housing enclosing the internal support structure and the at least one wire element.

In another aspect, a hair care appliance is provided and may include a housing including a handle having a first end having a fluid inlet formed therein and a second end, and a body having a first end coupled to the second end of the handle and a second end having a fluid outlet formed therein. The hair care appliance may include a fluid path extending through the housing between the fluid inlet in the handle and the fluid outlet in the body. The hair care appliance may further include a fan assembly disposed in the housing along the fluid path for directing fluid from the fluid inlet to the fluid outlet. The hair care appliance may further include a heater assembly disposed in the housing along the fluid path for heating fluid flowing through the fluid path. The hair care appliance may also include a user interface surface extending along a portion of the handle and including at least one button for controlling at least one of the fan assembly and the heater assembly. The user interface surface may extend from the first end toward the second end of the handle.

In another embodiment, the fluid inlet may extend at least partially around a periphery of the handle at the first end of the handle, and the user interface surface intersects the fluid inlet. In another embodiment, the at least one button may be flush or semi-flush with respect to the user interface surface. In another embodiment, the user interface surface may include an elongated region having opposing edges extending longitudinally along the handle to facilitate gripping of the handle. In another embodiment, the fluid inlet may include a substantially C-shaped cylindrical porous outer housing and a filter disposed therein. In another embodiment, the user interface may intersect the substantially C-shaped cylindrical porous outer housing and the filter. In another embodiment, the user interface may be located in a scalloped portion of the handle. In another embodiment, the user interface may comprise at least one lighting element illuminating the at least one button or a surface of the user interface. In another embodiment, the hair care appliance may further comprise a purge button for turning off the heater assembly to flow unheated fluid through the fluid path. In another embodiment, the at least one button controlling the fan assembly may be repeatedly engaged to select at least one speed setting of the fan assembly. In another embodiment, the at least one button controlling the heater assembly may be repeatedly engaged to select at least one temperature setting of the heater assembly.

Drawings

These and other features will be more readily understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a side cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of a hair care appliance shown in a straight configuration;

FIG. 2 is a side cross-sectional view of the hair care appliance of FIG. 1 shown in an angled or bent configuration;

FIG. 3 is a perspective end view of a handle of the hair care appliance of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the handle of FIG. 1 shown with the inlet housing removed;

FIG. 5 is a side perspective view of the hair care appliance of FIG. 1 with the inlet housing and filter removed;

FIG. 6 is another side perspective side of the hair care appliance of FIG. 1 with the inlet housing and filter removed;

FIG. 7 is a top side perspective view of the hair care appliance of FIG. 1 with the outer housing removed to show internal components of the appliance;

FIG. 8 is a bottom side perspective view of the hair care appliance illustrated in FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 is a side perspective view of the hair care appliance illustrated in FIG. 7, showing the swivel hinge joint;

FIG. 10 is a side perspective exploded view of a handle hinge portion, retainer and washer included in the rotary hinge joint of FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 is a side perspective view of a partially assembled configuration of the swivel hinge joint of FIG. 10;

FIG. 12 is a side perspective view of a partially assembled configuration of the swivel hinge joint of FIG. 11, further including a handle hinge plate mated thereto;

FIG. 13 is a side perspective view of a partially assembled configuration of the swivel hinge joint of FIG. 12, further including a body hinge plate mated thereto;

FIG. 14 is a side perspective view of a partially assembled configuration of the swivel hinge joint of FIG. 13, further including a first body frame fitted thereto;

FIG. 15 is a side perspective view of a partially assembled configuration of the swivel hinge joint of FIG. 14, further including heater assemblies and wiring mated thereto;

FIG. 16 is a side perspective view of a partially assembled configuration of the swivel hinge joint of FIG. 15, further including a second body frame mounted thereto;

FIG. 17 is a side perspective view of the outlet of the partially assembled configuration of the swivel hinge joint of FIG. 16, further including an O-ring fitted thereto;

FIG. 18 is a side view of the hair care appliance of FIG. 1 showing the ratio of the handle size to the body size;

FIG. 19 is a side view of the hair care appliance of FIG. 1 showing the center of mass of the hair care appliance and the tapered handle shape;

FIG. 20 is a perspective end view of a user interface of the hair care appliance of FIG. 1;

FIG. 21 is a cut-away perspective view of the hair care appliance of FIG. 1 with the handle housing removed to show internal electrical components;

FIG. 22 is a side perspective view of a bottom portion of the electrical component shown in FIG. 21;

FIG. 23 is another side perspective view of the electrical component of FIG. 21;

FIG. 24 is a side perspective view of the hair care appliance of FIG. 1 with the handle housing and body housing removed to show the internal fan assembly;

FIG. 25 is a side cross-sectional view of the hair care appliance of FIG. 24;

FIG. 26 is a side perspective view of a portion of the hair care appliance of FIG. 1 with the outer housing removed to show the internal heater assembly;

FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional view of the hair care appliance illustrated in FIG. 26;

fig. 28 is a perspective end view of the heater assembly of fig. 26.

FIG. 29 is a side perspective view of the hair care appliance of FIG. 1 with the outer housing removed and showing the flow path in a straight configuration;

FIG. 30 is another side perspective view of the hair care appliance of FIG. 1 with the outer housing removed and showing the fluid flow path;

FIG. 31 is a plot of flow path test data showing the hair care appliance of FIG. 1 in a straight configuration;

FIG. 32 is a plot of flow path test data showing the hair care appliance of FIG. 1 in an angled configuration;

FIG. 33 is a perspective side view of the hair care appliance of FIG. 1 showing the attachment mating assembly on an end thereof;

FIG. 34 is another side perspective view showing the mating mechanism of FIG. 33;

FIG. 35A is an end perspective view of the attachment fitting assembly of FIG. 33;

FIG. 35B is an end perspective view of another embodiment of an attachment fitting assembly of a hair care appliance;

FIG. 36 is a cutaway perspective view of the attachment fitting assembly of FIG. 35;

FIG. 37 is a cross-sectional side view of the attachment mating assembly of FIG. 35;

FIG. 38 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a circular comb attachment configured for use with a hair care appliance;

FIG. 39 is a cross-sectional view of the circular comb attachment of FIG. 38;

FIG. 40 is a cross-sectional view of an attachment mating assembly of the circular comb attachment of FIG. 38;

FIG. 41 is a top perspective view of the latch and release mechanism of the circular comb attachment of FIG. 38;

FIG. 42 is a bottom perspective view of the engagement feature of the circular comb attachment of FIG. 38;

FIG. 43 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a crimping attachment configured for use with a hair care appliance;

FIG. 44 is a cross-sectional view of fluid flow through the crimp attachment of FIG. 43;

FIG. 45 is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of a crimping attachment configured for use with a hair care appliance;

FIG. 46 is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of a crimping attachment configured for use with a hair care appliance;

figure 47 is a top view of the crimp attachment of figure 46;

FIG. 48 is a side view of the crimp attachment of FIG. 46;

FIG. 49 is a perspective view of the crimp attachment of FIG. 46 in operation;

FIG. 50 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a barrel crimp attachment configured for use with a hair care appliance;

FIG. 51 is another cross-sectional end view of the rolling assembly of the barrel crimp attachment of FIG. 50 in operation;

FIG. 52 is another cross-sectional end view of the rolling assembly of the barrel crimp attachment of FIG. 50 in operation;

FIG. 53 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a wound cartridge crimp attachment configured for use with a hair care appliance;

figure 54 is a side view of the wound cylindrical crimp attachment of figure 53;

FIG. 55 is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of a circular comb attachment configured for use with a hair care appliance;

FIG. 56A is a cross-sectional view of the circular comb attachment of FIG. 55 in a neutral configuration;

FIG. 56B is a cross-sectional view of the circular comb attachment of FIG. 55 in use in a first orientation;

FIG. 56C is a cross-sectional view of the circular comb attachment of FIG. 55 in use in a second orientation;

FIG. 57 is a top perspective view of the alignment feature of the circular comb attachment of FIG. 55;

FIG. 58 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a diffuser attachment configured for use with a hair care appliance;

FIG. 59 is a bottom perspective view of the diffuser attachment of FIG. 58;

FIG. 60 is a cross-sectional view of the diffuser attachment of FIG. 58, showing the disks therein;

FIG. 61 is a cross-sectional view of the diffuser attachment of FIG. 58, showing a fluid flow path therethrough;

FIG. 62 is a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a concentrator attachment configured for use with a hair care appliance;

FIG. 63 is a stop side perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of a concentrator attachment configured for use with a hair care appliance;

FIG. 64 is a bottom side perspective view of the concentrator attachment of FIG. 63;

FIG. 65 is a side perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of a concentrator attachment configured for use with a hair care appliance;

FIG. 66 is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of a crimping attachment configured for use with a hair care appliance;

FIG. 67 is a side perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a large plate comb attachment configured for use with a hair care appliance;

fig. 68 is a perspective view of an electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) enclosure configured for use with the hair care appliance described herein;

FIG. 69 is a front perspective view of the contents of the EMC enclosure of FIG. 68;

FIG. 70 is a rear perspective view of the contents of the EMC enclosure in FIG. 68;

FIG. 71 is a perspective view of an ionizer arranged with the heater assembly of the hair care appliance described herein;

FIG. 72 is a side perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of an attachment fitting assembly of a hair care appliance;

FIG. 73 is a perspective view of an attachment mating collar of the attachment mating assembly of FIG. 72;

FIG. 74 is a side perspective view of the attachment actuator assembly and attachment mating collar of the attachment mating assembly of FIG. 72;

FIG. 75 is a side perspective view of an attachment actuator assembly of the attachment fitting assembly of FIG. 72;

FIG. 76A is a cross-sectional view of an attachment actuator assembly coupled with the attachment mating collar of FIG. 73;

FIG. 76B is a cut-away cross-sectional view of an attachment actuator assembly coupled with the attachment mating collar of FIG. 73;

FIG. 77 is an end perspective view of the outlet grill of the attachment fitting assembly of FIG. 72;

FIG. 78 is a top perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of a diffuser attachment configured for use with the attachment fitting assembly of FIG. 72;

FIG. 79 is a bottom perspective view of the diffuser attachment of FIG. 78;

FIG. 80 is a cross-sectional top perspective view of the diffuser attachment of FIG. 78;

FIG. 81 is a cross-sectional view of the diffuser attachment of FIG. 78;

FIG. 82A is a side view of another exemplary embodiment of a concentrator attachment configured for use with a hair care appliance including the attachment mating assembly of FIG. 72;

FIG. 82B is a bottom view of the concentrator attachment of FIG. 82A;

FIG. 82C is a side perspective view of the concentrator attachment of FIG. 82A;

FIG. 83A is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of a crimping accessory configured for use with a hair care appliance including the attachment mating assembly of FIG. 72;

FIG. 83B is a cross-sectional view of the crimp attachment of FIG. 83A;

FIG. 84A is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of a circular comb attachment configured for use with a hair care appliance including the attachment mating assembly of FIG. 72;

FIG. 84B is a cross-sectional perspective view of the circular comb attachment of FIG. 84A;

FIG. 85A is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of a large plate comb attachment configured for use with a hair care appliance including the attachment mating assembly of FIG. 72;

FIG. 85B is a cross-sectional perspective view of the large plate comb attachment of FIG. 84A;

FIG. 86 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of an air dividing structure of the large plate comb of FIG. 85A;

FIG. 87A is a side view of a hair care appliance illustrating an experimental method for determining the center of gravity of the hair care appliance described herein in a straight configuration;

FIG. 87B is a side view of the hair care appliance of FIG. 87A showing the position of the center of gravity of the hair care appliance described herein in a straight configuration;

FIG. 88A is a side view of a hair care appliance illustrating an experimental method for determining the center of gravity of the hair care appliance described herein in a bent configuration;

FIG. 88B is a side view of the hair care appliance of FIG. 88A, illustrating the position of the center of gravity of the hair care appliance described herein in a bent configuration;

FIG. 89A is a cross-sectional view of a hair care appliance showing the position of a printed circuit board of the hair care appliance in a straight configuration;

FIG. 89B is a cross-sectional view of the hair care appliance showing the position of the motor of the hair care appliance in a straight configuration;

FIG. 89C is a cross-sectional view of the hair care appliance showing the position of the heater of the hair care appliance in a straight configuration; and is

Fig. 90 is a partially transparent view of a hair care appliance showing the position of the heater of the hair care appliance in a bent configuration.

It should be noted that the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale. The drawings are intended to depict only typical aspects of the subject matter disclosed herein, and therefore should not be considered as limiting the scope of the disclosure.

Detailed Description

Certain exemplary embodiments will now be described to provide an overall understanding of the principles of the structure, function, manufacture, and use of the devices and methods disclosed herein. One or more examples of these embodiments are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Those skilled in the art will understand that the systems, devices, and methods specifically described herein and illustrated in the accompanying drawings are non-limiting exemplary embodiments and that the scope of the present invention is defined solely by the claims. The features illustrated or described in connection with one exemplary embodiment may be combined with the features of other embodiments. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention.

Various exemplary hair care appliances and accessories for use with hair care appliances are provided herein. Generally, a hair care appliance is in the form of a hair dryer having an elongated generally cylindrical configuration with a handle and a body movably coupled to each other. The handle is configured to move relative to the body to convert the appliance from a straight configuration to a curved configuration, allowing a user to select a desired configuration based on the intended use. The hair care appliance also includes various internal components that facilitate use and operation of the hair care appliance. Various accessories for use with hair care appliances are also provided, and the configuration of the appliance may vary based on the type of accessory fitted to the hair care appliance. In certain embodiments, the accessory may limit the configuration of the hair care appliance. For example, at least one accessory is provided that fits to the hair dryer in a straight configuration and prevents the hair care appliance from moving to a curved configuration. On the other hand, other accessories may be mated in a manner that enables the use of the blower in a selected configuration. In some embodiments, the accessory may be attached to the hair care appliance in a permanently fixed position. In other aspects, a hair care appliance is provided that lacks a swivel hinge joint. In such embodiments, one hair care appliance may be provided having a straight configuration and a second hair care appliance may be provided having an angled configuration. The accessory described herein may be used with any of the foregoing hair care appliances, or with any other hair care appliance known in the art.

Fig. 1 and 2 show an exemplary embodiment of a hair care appliance 100 shown in a straight configuration and a curved configuration, respectively. As shown, the hair care appliance 100 generally includes a handle 110 movably coupled to a body 120 by a rotating hinge joint 300. In the straight configuration shown in fig. 1, the appliance 100 has a generally elongated cylindrical shape. The handle 110 has an inlet 112 at a first end of the appliance 100 and the body has an outlet 122 at a second end of the appliance. A fluid flow path P, shown in phantom, is formed between the inlet 112 and the outlet 122. The rotary hinge joint 300 formed between the handle 110 and the body 120 is articulatable via user operation to change the configuration of the hair care appliance 100 and the fluid flow path P from a straight configuration to a curved or angled configuration. As shown in fig. 2, the handle 110 and the body 120 are angled with respect to each other due to the articulation of the swivel hinge joint 300. Thus, the fluid flow path P, shown by the dashed lines, is angled between the handle 110 and the body 120.

It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the hair care appliance 100 may be operated when the rotary hinge joint 300 is unlatched and/or when the rotary hinge joint 300 is rotated to any position between the position where the rotary hinge joint 300 is in the straight configuration and the position where the rotary hinge joint is in the angled configuration. In other aspects, the hair care appliance 100 and the rotary hinge joint 300 can be configured to prevent over-rotation of the rotary hinge joint 300 beyond its position in the angled configuration. As shown in fig. 1, the hair care appliance 100 may be configured in a perfectly straight configuration with the swivel hinge joint locking the main body so as to be longitudinally aligned with the handle. As shown in fig. 2, the hair care appliance 100 may be configured in a fully bent configuration, wherein the swivel hinge joint locks the body at an angle relative to the handle. The hair care appliance 100 may also be configured in a rotational configuration, wherein the rotational hinge joint positions the main body relative to the handle within a range of angular positions between a fully straight configuration and a fully bent configuration.

The handle 110 may include various internal electrical components 400 for operating the appliance. In general, the handle may include electrical components 400 that may control the operation of a fan assembly 500 disposed within the handle 110 and a heater assembly 600 disposed in the body 120. In exemplary embodiments, as shown, the fan assembly 500 may be placed downstream of the rotary hinge joint 300 and proximate to the heater assembly 600 disposed upstream of the rotary hinge joint 300. This may help improve fluid flow within the hair care appliance 100. The fan assembly 500 may generate a fluid flow along the fluid flow path P such that air is drawn into the inlet 112, through the handle 110, and expelled into the body 120 via the outlet 122. As the air passes through the body 120, the air may be heated via the heater assembly 600.

Electrical component 400 may be configured to be coupled to a power source 410. Fig. 3 shows a power cord 130 extending from the bottom of the handle 110. The power cord 130 may have a tip (not shown) configured to couple to a power source, for example, the tip may be configured to plug into a power outlet. The power cord 130 may include internal electrical wiring for delivering power to the electronics in the handle 110. The power cord 130 may be connected to an electronics housing containing at least one controller or PCB. As further shown in fig. 3, the handle 110 may include a scalloped portion 403 where the user interface 401 may be positioned.

As further shown in FIG. 3, the end of the handle 110 may include a filter assembly 200 for filtering air drawn through the inlet 112. In the illustrated embodiment, the filter extends around the proximal end portion of the handle 110, but is not formed in the end wall of the handle 110. Thus, the fluid D is drawn circumferentially around the sidewall of the handle 110. The illustrated filter assembly 200 includes an inlet housing 220 that is generally C-shaped and flexible to allow removal of the inlet housing 220 for cleaning. The user interface 401 may intersect the inlet housing 220. The inlet housing 220 has a plurality of apertures through which fluid may flow into the fluid flow path. The apertures may have any configuration and may be arranged in any pattern. The inlet housing 220 may cover a filter 230 located behind the inlet housing, as shown in fig. 4, with the inlet housing 220 removed. The filter 230 may be a porous element configured to block debris and hair that may have entered the inlet housing 220, thereby preventing debris from entering the fluid flow path P. As further shown in fig. 4, the electrical component 400 may be positioned just downstream of the filter, but upstream of the fan assembly 500, such that when fluid is drawn toward and into the fan assembly 500 in operation, the fluid flow path P flows over and around the electrical component 400. This may help cool electrical component 400.

Appliance casing

The remainder of the handle 110 is formed by a first handle shell 114a and a second handle shell 114b that mate together in a clamshell-type configuration to enclose the internal components. In some embodiments, the handle 110 may include a single handle housing, such as a sleeve. The first and

second handle shells

114a, 114b may snap fit together, although other attachment mechanisms are contemplated. The inlet housing 220 can snap fit with the first and

second housing handles

114a, 114 b. The hair care appliance 100 further comprises a body housing 124. In some embodiments, the body 120 may be formed of multiple shells that mate with one another.

The

handle housings

114a, 114b and the body housing 124 can include surface treatments configured to assist a user in gripping the hair care appliance 100 and/or rotating the swivel hinge joint 300 to change the configuration of the hair care appliance 100 from a straight configuration to a curved configuration, or from a curved configuration to a straight configuration. In some embodiments, as shown in fig. 5, the surface treatment may include a groove, such as a helical groove, on the body housing 124. In some embodiments, the surface treatment may include a paint or similar coated surface treatment.

The appliance may also include a number of internal housings or frames. As shown in fig. 7, with the

outer housings

114a, 114b, 124 removed, the hair care appliance 100 includes a first handle frame 116a and a second handle frame 116b disposed within the handle 110. The first and

second handle frames

116a, 116b may be attached by a snap fit or similar attachment method or mechanism, such as a friction fit, screw fixation, or riveting. The hair care appliance 100 may further include a first body frame 126a and a second body frame 126b disposed within the body 120. The first body frame 126a and the second body frame 126b may be mated to each other via a snap fit or similar attachment method or mechanism, such as a friction fit, screw fixation, or riveting.

The fan assembly cover 502 may be disposed within the handle 110 and may be mounted to the second handle frame 116b. In some embodiments, the first handle frame 116a may extend to form a fan assembly cover, rather than having a separate cover. The electrical component 420 may be disposed between the first handle frame 116a and the second handle frame 116b. The electrical component 400 may be coupled to either of the first handle frame 116a, the second handle frame 116b, or both the first handle frame 116a and the second handle frame 116b. As shown in fig. 8, the second handle frame 116b may be disposed along the bottom of the hair care appliance 100.

Hinge joint

As indicated above, the main body 120 and the handle 110 mate with each other at the rotating hinge joint 300. The swivel hinge joint 300 can have a variety of configurations, but in the illustrated embodiment, as shown in FIG. 9, it includes a handle hinge plate 302 configured relative to the handle 110 and a body hinge plate 306 configured relative to the body 120. Handle flap 302 and body flap 306 may be separated by a gap so that handle 110 and body 120 may rotate relative to each other in a smooth, unimpeded manner. In some embodiments, handle flap 302 and body flap 306 may include a surface coating or coating material. In some embodiments, the swivel hinge joint 300 may be configured at an angle of 30 to 50 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis of the handle. The swivel hinge joint 300 can be rotated in a first direction to an angled configuration and rotated in a second direction to return to a straight configuration.

The swivel hinge joint 300 is shown in more detail in fig. 10-17. As shown, the hinge joint 300 is formed between the second handle frame 116b and the first body frame 126a of the handle as partially shown in fig. 10-17. In other embodiments, the swivel hinge joint 300 can be a separately formed element that can be coupled to the second handle frame 116b and the first body frame 126a. The second handle frame 116b can provide a structural mating surface for mating with the first body frame 126a, which when coupled together can form the rotary hinge joint described herein.

As further shown in fig. 10, the swivel hinge joint may include a snap hinge assembly 310. The snap hinge assembly 310 may include a retainer 312 and a washer 314 mounted on and around the retainer 312. Retainer 312 may be snap-fit or friction-fit into second handle frame 116b by seating the retainer within opening 320, thereby creating a fluid flow path in rotary hinge joint 300 between handle 110 and body 120, as shown in fig. 11. The retainer 312 may be formed of a high friction material, such as nylon, teflon, or similar plastic material, to enable the handle 110 and body 120 to rotate with minimal effort. As further shown in fig. 11, a washer 314 may be secured to the retainer 312. The second handle frame 116b may include a plurality of snap-fit features 304.

As shown in fig. 12, the handle hinge plate 302 can be coupled to the second handle frame 116b via a snap-fit feature 304. Handle hinge plate 302 can include corresponding snap-fit features on a surface opposite snap-fit features 304 to secure handle hinge plate 302 to second handle frame 116b.

As shown in fig. 13, the body hinge plate 306 can be configured to be coupled to the first body frame 720 and/or the second body frame 725. The body hinge panel 306 can be formed of a similar material as the handle hinge panel 302. The body hinge panel 306 can include a plurality of snap-fit features 308 configured to couple with one or more body frames.

As shown in fig. 14, the first body frame 126a can be coupled to the body hinge panel 306 via one or more snap-fit features 308. As shown in fig. 15, the wiring W may be routed through the second handle frame 116b and through the opening 320 to couple with a heater assembly 600 disposed within the body of the hair care appliance. The wiring W may advantageously be routed around the periphery of the fluid flow path running through the second handle frame 116b, the opening 320, and the first body frame 126a (and the second body frame 126 b). In this way, clogging of the fluid flow within the fluid flow path may be minimized or reduced. The wiring W may be directly on or adjacent to the second handle frame 116b and the first body frame 126a (or the second body frame 126 b).

As shown in fig. 16, the second body frame 126b may be coupled to the first body frame 126a via a plurality of snap-fit features 128. In this way, the first and second body frames 126a, 126b may form the outlet 122 at the distal end of the body (and the hair care appliance 100). As shown in fig. 17, an O-ring 150 or similar annular flexible member may be applied to the ends of the coupled first and second body frames 126a, 126b to ensure that they engage each other. The O-ring 150 may also provide a flexible interface for the outlet frame structure that is configured to couple to the first and second body frames 126a, 126b at the outlet end of the hair care appliance 100.

The implement may also have a shape that is convenient to grasp. As shown in FIG. 19, the body 120 of the appliance is cylindrical, however, the handle 110 may be along the entire handle length L _h Having a tapered cylindrical shape. Specifically, the handle 110 may have a profile or diameter that varies from a first position T ₁ I.e. the distance from the hinge joint 300 changes to a second position T at the end of the handle 110 ₂ So that the second position T ₂ Has a first position T ₁ Compared to a smaller diameter. This may allow a user to more easily grasp the appliance while providing a larger profile or diameter at the joint 300 and in the body for internal components such as a heater assembly.

In use, the swivel hinge joint allows a user to easily convert the hair care appliance from a straight configuration to an angled configuration with minimal or no reduction in flow rate or pressure. This may be advantageous when different styling treatments are performed in sequence or when using an accessory of a hair care appliance quickly. To facilitate movement between the straight configuration and the angled or curved configuration, the hair care appliance 100 may include an actuation mechanism 340 shown in fig. 6. In the embodiment shown, the actuation mechanism 340 is in the form of a slidable button that is disposed against a spring of the actuation mechanism so that retracting the actuation mechanism 340 loads the spring and releases a latch mechanism of the rotary hinge joint 300 so that the rotary hinge joint can rotate between a straight configuration and a curved configuration, as will be discussed in more detail below. Once the user has rotated the rotary hinge joint 300 to the second configuration, the user may release the actuation mechanism 340 and the latch mechanism of the rotary hinge joint 300 may re-engage to secure the rotary hinge joint 300 in the second configuration.

In certain exemplary embodiments, the amount of force required to release the hair care appliance 100 from the straight configuration and allow rotation to the angled configuration may vary. For example, the amount of force used to release main body 120 in a straight configuration from handle 110 to initiate rotation of hinge joint 300 to rotate to an angled configuration may be 3.1N-3.6N. The amount of force required to rotate the body 120 into an angled configuration relative to the handle 110 may be 3.6N-4.0N. The rotating hinge joint 300 of the hair care appliance 100 may also be configured to require a certain amount of force to release the appliance from the angled configuration to allow rotation to the straight configuration. The amount of force used to release the body 120 in the angled configuration from the handle 110 to initiate rotation of the hinge joint 300 to rotate to the straight configuration may be 5.1N-5.3N. The rotary hinge joint 300 can also be configured to require a certain amount of force to move the implement from the rotated position to the straight configuration or the angled configuration. For example, the amount of force used to move the body 120 with the handle 110 to a straight configuration may be 4.5N-5.3N. The amount of force used to move the body 120 to the angled configuration with the handle 110 may be 6.2N-6.7N. The torque required to rotate the rotating hinge joint 300 may vary, but in exemplary embodiments it may be between about 0.1N and 0.7N. In other aspects, the swivel hinge joint 300 can be configured to release, rotate, and move the body 120 relative to the handle 110 to provide consistent tactile feedback when adjusting the body 120 into the straight configuration or the angled configuration.

As indicated previously, with the appliance fully assembled, the appliance 100 may have a generally elongated cylindrical configuration. Although the cross-sectional shape and size of the handle 110 and the body 120 may vary, in an exemplary embodiment, the handle 110 is longer than the body 120. As shown in fig. 18, in the case of a hair care appliance 100 in a straight configuration, the appliance may have an overall length L _t . The swivel hinge joint axis A divides the device 100 into handle lengths L _h And a body length L _b . In an exemplary embodiment, the handle length L _h Is the total lengthDegree L _t About 2/3 of and a body length L _b Is the total length L _t About 1/3 of (1). However, the handle length L _h And the length L of the main body _t The ratio of (a) to (b) may vary. In some embodiments, the overall length L of the appliance 100 in a straight configuration _t In the range of about 26.0cm to 31.0 cm. In an exemplary embodiment, the overall length L of the appliance 100 in a straight configuration _t It was 28.5cm. In the curved or angled configuration, the handle length L is shown in FIG. 19 _h In the range of about 19.5cm to 24.5cm, and a body length L _b In the range of about 8.5cm to 13.5 cm. In an exemplary embodiment, the handle length L _h It was 22.0 cm. In an exemplary embodiment, the body length L _b Is 11.0cm.

The appliance 100 may also be configured to have a center of mass that properly balances the appliance in a user's hand in a bent configuration. The center of mass of the implement 100 may be such that the mass distribution is equal in all directions and is not dependent on the position of the gravitational field. In the exemplary embodiment shown in fig. 19, the hair care appliance 100 has a center of mass M that is forward of the handle 110 and below the main body 120. The arrangement of the components in the handle 110 and the body 120 may be such that the center of mass M is advantageously arranged as shown to provide an enhanced user experience to hold and operate the hair care appliance 100 while the user applies minimal force to secure the hair care appliance in the hand. In particular, the centre of mass may be located in front of the handle and below the main body to ensure neutral structure handling and to reduce user fatigue while the hair care appliance remains in the user's hand. Motor 520 may be aligned with heater assembly 600 to balance center of mass M.

87A-88B illustrate an exemplary method for determining a center of gravity. The Center of Gravity (CG) of the implement 100 depends on the gravitational field and is where the mass distribution is equal in all directions. As shown in fig. 87A, the hair care appliance 100 can be divided into an appliance portion 100A and a power supply portion 100B. CG may be determined in appliance portion 100A by measuring the mass and position of components included in handle 110 and body 120. The CG is determined using computer aided design software configured with a center of gravity function, wherein the component location is defined based on design parameters and the component mass is assigned based on the component material type.

In the illustrated embodiment, the location of the CG of implement portion 100A is shown in fig. 87B, wherein implement 100 is in a straight configuration. The CG is shown to be located 150.5mm from the bottom of handle 110 (e.g., where inlet 112 is located), as measured along an axis a extending through the center of implement portion 100A. The CG is displaced 0.6mm radially outwardly from axis a and is therefore positioned on an axis B extending through the CG.

In fig. 88A, the hair care appliance 100 is shown in an angled configuration. In fig. 88B, the CG of implement portion 100A is located 137.1mm from the bottom of handle 110 (e.g., where inlet 112 is located), as measured along an axis a extending through the center of implement portion 100A. The CG is displaced radially outwardly from axis a and is located 12.0mm from axis a, as shown by axis C extending through the CG.

In fig. 89A-89C, the positions of the PCB 420, the motor 520, and the heating assembly 600 are shown as measured from the bottom of the handle 110 of the appliance portion 100A in a straight configuration (e.g., where the inlet 112 is located). As shown in fig. 89A, the center of the PCB 420 is located 82.43mm from the bottom of the handle 110. As shown in fig. 89B, the center of the motor 520 is 150.63mm from the bottom of the handle 110. As shown in fig. 89C, the center of the heating assembly 600 is 255.11mm from the bottom of the handle 110. In fig. 90, the location of the center of the heating assembly 600 is shown for the appliance portion 100A in an angled configuration. The position of the heating assembly 600 may be measured from an axis a that extends from the bottom of the handle 110 (e.g., where the inlet 112 is disposed) to the center of the handle 110 and the body 120. In the angled configuration, the heater assembly may be 56.29mm from the axis a, 189.22mm from the axis D corresponding to the bottom of the handle 110. The positions of PCB 420 and motor 520 in the angled configuration may be the same as described with respect to fig. 89A-89C, corresponding to their positions in the straight configuration of appliance portion 100A.

User interface

The handle may also include a user interface 401 for enabling a user to provide input for operating the implement, as shown in fig. 20. In particular, the user interface may include one or more buttons or switches for powering the hair care appliance on and off, adjusting the temperature setting of the heater assembly (and thereby the temperature of the fluid heated by the heater assembly), and adjusting the fan speed of the fan assembly (and thereby the speed of the fluid discharged via the outlet). The user interface may also provide a button or switch for disengaging the heating assembly, thereby providing cooled, non-heated fluid from the outlet.

While the user interface may be positioned at various locations, in an exemplary embodiment, the user interface 401 extends longitudinally along at least a portion of the handle 110. As shown in fig. 20, the user interface extends from the bottom, i.e., endmost, of the handle and intersects the filter assembly 200 as shown, and may extend toward the rotary hinge joint 300, terminating at a small distance from the rotary hinge joint 300. The user interface 401 may be provided on a scalloped portion of the handle having raised edges along opposite sides of the user interface 401 to facilitate gripping of the handle 110 by a user. The user interface 401 may extend between the first handle housing 114a and the second handle housing 114 b. In another embodiment, the user interface 401 may intersect the filter 230.

The wiring coupling the user interface to the electrical component (e.g., printed circuit board) may run to the side of the user interface, rather than directly below the user interface, to ensure that the fluid flow path is unrestricted or restricted from fluid flow.

As indicated above, the user interface 401 may comprise one or more buttons or engagement features configured to control the operation of the hair care appliance based on user input. For example, the user interface 401 may include a purge feature 402. The purge feature 402 may shut off the heater assembly 600 such that only unheated air is exhausted through the outlet. In some embodiments, the purge feature 402 may be located remotely from the user interface 401 or within the user interface 401, but remote from other features of the user interface.

The user interface 401 may also include a fan setting feature 404. The fan setting feature 404 may be configured to control the speed of the fan assembly 500. The fan setting features 404 may be selected repeatedly to produce high, medium, and low velocity fluid flow produced by the fan assembly 500.

The user interface 401 may also include a temperature setting feature 406. The temperature setting feature 406 may be configured to control the temperature of the heater assembly 600 and, thus, the fluid flow exiting the outlet 122 of the hair care appliance 100. The temperature setting feature 406 may be selected repeatedly to heat the fluid stream to a very high temperature, a higher temperature, a medium temperature, or a lower temperature. In some embodiments, the higher temperature setting may cause the heater assembly to heat the fluid stream to 100 ℃.

As further shown in fig. 20, the user interface 401 may include a power feature 410. The power supply feature 410 may be configured to control the supply of power from the power supply to the electrical components of the hair care appliance. As indicated above, the user interface 401 may include one or more tactile features 408. The tactile feature 408 may be a raised edge or gripping feature configured to improve user grip and manual dexterity when holding or operating the hair care appliance.

In some embodiments, the features of the user interface 401 may be configured to avoid accidental engagement by the user. For example, the features may be concave and require positive engagement to trigger a particular user to engage the feature. The low configuration or recessed design of the buttons or switches of the user interface may allow a user to operate the hair care appliance without erroneously touching unintended buttons or switches. In some embodiments, any of the features of user interface 401 described herein may be configured with a light or illumination element that may illuminate a button, switch, or surface of user interface 401, such as an interior surface or subsurface of the user interface. The arrangement and pattern of user interface features described herein may be provided on the handle of the hair care appliance described herein in various non-limiting configurations.

Electronic device

As indicated previously, the hair care appliance may include a power source coupled to an inlet end (e.g., proximal end) of the handle. A power source may pass through the inlet port and may provide power to electrical components disposed within the handle and body. The electrical components may be coupled to a power source via cables or wiring. The electrical components may include portions of the fan assembly (e.g., a motor) and portions of the heater assembly (e.g., a heating element), as well as one or more Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs). The PCBs may be arranged in a fluid flow path within the handle, and may be arranged relative to one another so as to provide a gap between the PCBs to allow fluid to more easily flow through the fluid flow path in the handle. For example, a first PCB may be disposed above or below a second PCB, and a gap may separate the two PCBs. Advantageously, placing the PCB in the fluid flow path may also enable cooling of components disposed on the PCB.

The PCB may include components, such as resistors and capacitors, that may be disposed on the PCB. The arrangement of PCB components may be configured to maximize fluid flow through the PCB. For example, the PCB components may be aligned with a longitudinal axis of the fluid flow path rather than transversely to the fluid flow path to provide more efficient fluid flow within the fluid flow path through the PCB.

The electrical components of the hair care appliance may be coupled to each other and to the power source via one or more connectors. The connector may engage portions of the electrical wire and electrically couple the electrical components. An arrangement of connectors may be provided to ensure that fluid flow is maintained through the fluid flow path and that fluid flow is not reduced. For example, the connector may be located on the PCB as close to the lower portion of the power supply as possible. In some embodiments, the connectors associated with the motor and heater assembly may be disposed at a distal end of the PCB (e.g., an edge of the PCB closest to the motor and heater assembly) and may include longitudinally oriented wiring parallel to the fluid flow path. The wiring between the connectors may also be arranged parallel to the handle, the longitudinal axis of the body, and the fluid flow path extending between the inlet and the outlet. In some embodiments, a User Interface (UI) PCB assembly may be separate from a main PCB assembly to reduce hair entry from the UI.

Fig. 21 shows the internal electrical components of the hair care appliance. As shown, the handle 110 may receive a power source that may be electrically coupled to one or more PCBs 420. The PCB 420 may be further electrically coupled to one or

more features

402, 404, 406, 410 of the user interface 401 described with respect to fig. 20. The PCB 420 may also be electrically coupled to the fan assembly 500 and the heater assembly 600 located in the body 120 of the hair care appliance 100. The electrical coupling between the PCB and the power source 410, user interface features 402, 404, 406, 410, fan assembly 500, and heater assembly 600 may be accomplished via one or more connectors and one or more wires. For example, the wiring W may be configured to couple the PCB 420 to the heater assembly 600. The wiring W may be disposed peripherally with respect to the opening extending through the rotary hinge joint 300 such that fluid flow through the handle 110 and the rotary hinge joint 300 and into the body 120 is not obstructed or reduced.

Fig. 21 shows a fluid flow path P drawn in a dotted line flowing through and to an electrical component. The arrangement of PCB 420, user interface features 402, 404, 406, 410, and wires W may be configured to maximize the flow of fluid with minimal reduction in velocity or pressure as the fluid passes along fluid flow path F. The flow splitter 504 may further assist in the efficient fluid flow distribution to the fan assembly 500.

As shown in fig. 22, the first PCB 420a and the second PCB 420b may be separated from each other by a gap or space 430. The height or size of the gap or space 430 may be configured to maximize fluid flow within a fluid flow path extending through the handle and over/around the PCB 420. In some embodiments, the gap may be 1.5-2.0mm. In certain exemplary embodiments, the gap may be 1.84mm. The second PCB 420b may be configured to control the user interface and external controls. The second PCB 420b may be positioned such that it restricts hairs from entering the first PCB 420A. As further shown in fig. 22, PCB 420 may include a number of different electrical components, including but not limited to connector 440, capacitor 450, processor 460, and resistors, transistors, diodes, circuits, sensors, or electromechanical components. A heat sink or shield 470 may also be configured with respect to one or more of the PCBs 420. In some embodiments, the weight of electrical component 400 may be 46.1g.

As shown in fig. 23, PCB 420 may include a Metal Oxide Varistor (MOV) 480. The PCB 420 may also include a Negative Temperature Coefficient (NTC) sensor 490. An arrangement of MOV 480 and NTC sensor 490 may be provided on PCB 420 to reduce fluid flow resistance caused by the shape of MOV 480 and NTC sensor 490. For example, the MOV 480 and NTC sensor 490 may be mounted vertically, as shown in fig. 23, such that the narrower cross-section of each component interfaces with the fluid flow through the fluid flow path P.

Electrical component 400 may be coupled to a power source 410. As shown in fig. 68, a power source 410 may be coupled to the power cord 130. The power cord 130 may comprise an EMC enclosure 6800 arranged between an end of the power cord 130 and the hair care appliance 100. The EMC enclosure 6800 can include a cover or housing 6805. As shown in fig. 69, the housing 6805 has been removed to show a front view of electrical components 6810 that may be disposed on a PCB 6815 within an EMC enclosure 6800. The rear of the PCB 6815 can be seen in figure 70.

As explained above, the placement of electrical components on the PCB is optimized to maintain fluid flow along the fluid flow path. Similarly, a PCB may include a space or gap between two PCBs, such that fluid may flow through the gap and around each PCB. In this way, the electrical components on the PCB are cooled by the fluid flow and the fluid flow path is unobstructed such that fluid flow is maintained with minimal reduction in fluid velocity.

Fan assembly

As indicated previously, the fan assembly 500 is positioned downstream of the electrical components. The fan assembly 500 is positioned to balance within the handle 110 and also to be proximate the rotary hinge joint 300 to improve fluid flow. The fan assembly generally includes a motor coupled to an impeller or fan having a plurality of blades. Positioning the motor in the handle at a position where the user will grip the hair care appliance may advantageously reduce vibrations of the motor during operation. In operation, the motor may rotate the fan to draw fluid into the inlet of the handle and into the fluid flow path. The fluid may be drawn toward the fan and expelled from above the heater assembly via the outlet and out of the hair care appliance.

As shown in fig. 24, the fan assembly 500 is located in the fluid flow path P forward of the electrical component 400 and at the distal end of the handle along the fluid flow path immediately downstream of the swivel hinge joint. In this way, the fan assembly can provide improved fluid flow through the rotary hinge joint, such as in an angled configuration, into the heater assembly and the outlet in the main body with minimal reduction in fluid flow. Placing the fan assembly 500 in the handle 110 may also advantageously reduce vibration of the fan assembly 500 caused by insulation of the user's hand when in operation. In some embodiments, the weight of the fan assembly 500 may be 71.6g.

As shown, the fan assembly 500 includes a housing 506 that covers the motor and fan blades of the fan assembly 500. In some embodiments, the fan assembly housing 506 may be a rubber isolation damper. The fan assembly 500 may also include a flow splitter 504. The flow splitter 504 may be configured in a fluid flow path P extending from the inlet 112 to the outlet 122. In particular, the flow splitter 504 may include a dome-shaped portion 508 coupled to an annular frame 510 by one or more dome-shaped supports 512. The dome-shaped portion 508 may be configured to distribute fluid flow radially through the fan assembly housing 506 and onto the peripheral edges of the fan blades. In this manner, the fan blades of the fan contained within the fan housing 506 may receive a uniform distribution of fluid flow, allowing the fan to produce a uniform fluid flow distribution downstream of the fan assembly 500 (e.g., toward the outlet 122).

As shown in fig. 25, the fan assembly 500 may include a motor 520 and a fan 530. The fan 530 may be coupled to a central shaft extending from the motor 520. The fan 530 may include a plurality of fan blades 532. In operation, the motor 520 may rotate the fan 530 and draw fluid into the inlet of the handle 110 and along the fluid flow path toward the diverter 504. The dome-shaped portion 508 may distribute the fluid flow to the outer edges of the fan blades 532 such that the volume of fluid and the velocity of the fluid may be effectively maintained. Fluid flow may be transferred from the fan blades 532 into the motor frame 522. The motor frame 522 may include arcuate blades disposed downstream of the fan to smooth and straighten the flow of fluid exiting the fan. Fan assembly 500 may direct fluid flow through rotary hinge joint 300 and toward a flow splitter 602 located upstream of heater assembly 600 in body 120 (e.g., toward fan assembly 500). In some embodiments, the fan assembly may generate fluid flow at a speed of 25-35 m/s.

Heater assembly

As indicated above, the hair care appliance may include a heater assembly in the body 120. The heater assembly may be configured to control the temperature of the fluid stream between 60-100 ℃. The heater assembly may be spaced apart from the swivel hinge joint to provide a smooth, uniform fluid flow of fluid into the heater assembly. The heater assembly may be positioned in a fluid flow path extending through the body and may heat the fluid as the fluid is provided to the outlet of the body. The heater assembly may include an inner support structure including a central axis and a plurality of planar segments extending along and radially from the central axis. The planar section may have a cut-out portion therein to ensure that fluid flow is maximized as it passes through the heater assembly. One or more heating elements may be arranged on the planar section and may be coupled to a PCB in the handle via cables or wiring. The heating assembly wiring may be positioned proximate to and along the inner surfaces of the handle, the swivel hinge joint, and the body so as not to obstruct the fluid flow path and reduce fluid flow. The heating assembly 600 may further include an ionizer 7100 as shown in fig. 71. The ionizer 7100 can include an ionizer emitter 7105 in the heating fluid flow path P. In some embodiments, the weight of the heater assembly 600 may be 29.9g.

The heater assembly may also include at least one thermistor and at least one fuse, each of which may be electrically coupled to the PCB via a wire. The thermistor can be configured to measure temperature data of a fluid flowing through the heater assembly. The fuse may be configured as a safety switch or electrical cutoff that disconnects current to the heating element upon a fault to prevent overheating of the heater assembly. The thermistor and fuse may be located at the outlet end of the body and may be positioned on the upper aspect of the heater assembly to further ensure that fluid flow through the heater assembly is evenly distributed between the upper and lower aspects of the heater assembly and evenly radially within the body. In some embodiments, the thermistor and the fuse may be located on the same planar section. In other embodiments, the thermistor and fuse may be located on different planar sections. In some embodiments, the heater assembly may include a Thermal Cutoff (TCO) disposed on the planar section and electrically coupled to the thermistor and the fuse. The TCO may be a resettable thermal control component that may be programmed to shut off power to the heating element when the temperature of the fluid exceeds a predetermined threshold.

Fig. 26 shows the heater assembly 600 in more detail. As shown, the heater assembly includes a plurality of heating elements 604 arranged on one or more planar sections 606 of an internal support structure 608. Wiring W may electrically couple the heater assembly 600 to the electrical components 400 and the power source 410 described with respect to fig. 21 to provide power to the heater assembly 600. The wire W may be routed along the inner surface of the main body frame through the rotary hinge joint 155, thereby forming the periphery of the rotary hinge joint 300. In this manner, disruptions to fluid flow within the fluid flow path through the rotary hinge joint 300 may be minimized, and a uniformly distributed flow pattern to the heater assembly 600 may be provided to maintain flow rate and pressure.

As shown in fig. 27, one or more of the planar sections 606 may include a cut-out portion 606c configured to equalize fluid flow through the heater assembly 600. The cut-out portion 606c may allow fluid flow to equalize in a uniform manner as it flows through the heater assembly 600. The cutout portion 606c may allow the planar section 606 to be able to support the heating element 604 while also creating space for fluid flow to evenly and evenly distribute fluid flow as it flows through the heater assembly 600. The cutout portion 606c may have various non-limiting shapes and sizes. For example, cutout portion 606c may include a rectangular shape, a square shape, a circular shape, a geometric shape, or an oval shape. In some embodiments, the cutout portion 606c may extend longitudinally along the majority of the planar section 606. In some embodiments, the cutout portion 606c may extend radially on the planar section 606. In some embodiments, the cut-out portion 606c may extend in an arcuate pattern over the planar section.

In some embodiments, the planar section 606 may be configured in various non-limiting configurations relative to a central portion of the internal support structure 608. For example, the plurality of planar sections may be arranged as spokes extending radially outward from a central portion of the inner support structure 608. In some embodiments, the internal support structure 608 may include additional configurations of the planar section 606, which may not be formed relative to a central portion of the internal support structure 608, such as a helical arrangement of the planar section 606, a box arrangement of the planar section 606, or a cylindrical arrangement of the planar section 606. An ionizer 7100 can be coupled to the planar section 606.

As shown in fig. 28, a plurality of heating elements 604 may be arranged on and extend around a plurality of planar sections 606. Various non-limiting shapes or arrangements of heating elements 604 are contemplated. The heating element 604 may be electrically coupled to the wiring W such that, when receiving electrical power, the heating element 604 may radiate heat, which may be transferred to the fluid flowing through the heater assembly 600. An outer cylindrical housing 610 may surround the heater assembly.

One or more electrical components may also be included in the heater assembly 600. For example, thermistor 615 may be disposed in the fluid flow path and may be electrically coupled to wiring W via

wires

612 and 614.

Wires

612 and 614 may form a U-shaped configuration with respect to thermistor 615. Other shapes of wiring arrangements are contemplated. The heater assembly 600 may also include a fuse 620 that may be electrically coupled to the wiring W. The fuse 620 may provide a safety mechanism by which to disconnect the heater assembly (and the hair care appliance) in the event that the temperature of the heater assembly exceeds a predetermined temperature threshold. The heater assembly may further include a thermal cut-off electrically coupled to the wiring W. The thermal cutoff may be a programmable and resettable electrical safety component that may allow modification of the predetermined temperature threshold.

In use, the heater assembly 600 is configured to maintain optimal fluid flow through the heating element to the outlet. An arrangement of thermistors and fuses may be provided to ensure even radial distribution of fluid flow. The planar section of the internal support structure may have a cut-out portion to ensure maximum fluid flow over and around the heating element.

Fluid flow path

As indicated above, the hair care appliance 100 has a fluid flow path P extending between the inlet 120 of the handle 110 and the outlet 125 of the body 120. As previously indicated, the first shunt 504 is positioned in the handle 110 and the second shunt 602 is positioned in the body 120.

The flow splitter 602 may be configured as a baffle structure and may divide the fluid flow exiting the fan assembly 500 into separate and uniform upper flow paths F entering the heater assembly 600 _u And a lower flow path F _L . Without the flow splitter 602, the fluid flow would tend to collect in the upper portion of the heater assembly 600 and less fluid flow would pass through the lower portion of the heater assembly 600. The flow splitter 602 may address this problem by allowing an equal amount of fluid to enter the heater assembly 600 so that an even distribution of heat may be transferred to an equal amount of fluid. Advantageously, the flow splitter 602 may produce a minimal reduction in fluid flow into the heater assembly 600. In the exemplary embodiment, flow splitter 602 includes rounded, non-sharp edges such that when a fluid flows through and around flow splitter 602, the fluid flow is free of turbulence. Further, the flow splitter 602 can maintain a flow rate, a static flow pressure, and a top-to-bottom pressure gradient between the upper and lower portions of the heater assembly 600 in the straight and angled configurations of the hair care appliance described herein. As shown in fig. 30, the fan assembly cover has been removed from the fan assembly 500 for illustrating the fluid flow path P. In some embodiments, the fluid flow path P may be a sealed fluid flow path such that loss of fluid flow from the appliance to the environment is minimized.

In an exemplary embodiment, in an angled configuration, the hair care appliance described herein can achieve a maximum to minimum flow rate ratio of 1.7 with a pressure drop of 1700Pa along the length of the fluid flow path, and in a straight configuration, the hair care appliance can achieve a maximum to minimum flow rate ratio of 1.6 with a pressure drop of 1900Pa along the length of the fluid flow path. Thus, the ratio of flow rates at the maximum flow rate and minimum flow rate for the angled configuration is 94-95% relative to the straight configuration. Thus, the fluid flow rate in the angled configuration is only 5-6% lower than the fluid flow rate in the straight configuration. The hair care appliance may advantageously maintain and provide a sufficiently equal flow rate in either the straight configuration or the angled configuration, with minimal reduction in the flow rate in the angled configuration.

As shown in fig. 31, the S section shows velocity (m/S) data of fluid flow through a hair care appliance in a straight configuration. As shown, the velocity of the fluid flow exhibits minimal change as it flows from the handle 110 through the swivel hinge joint 300 and into contact with the flow diverter 602. Advantageously, the flow splitter 602 allows for a substantially equal distribution of the upper and lower portions of fluid flow to pass into the heater assembly 600 of the body 120 with minimal or no change in fluid velocity in the straight configuration of the hair care appliance. The substantially equal distribution of fluid flow prevents overheating within the heater and ensures consistent heat output. The resulting flow output at outlet 122 further illustrates a constant and substantially equal fluid velocity exiting the upper and lower portions of outlet 122 due to the configuration of flow splitter 602. In the straight configuration, at the high, medium, and low speed settings of the fan assembly 500, the speed (m/s) is measured at 1 inch from the outlet 122 and 4 inches from the outlet 122. The results are shown in table 1.

TABLE 1

As shown in fig. 32, section B shows velocity (m/s) data of fluid flow through a hair care appliance in a bent configuration. As shown, the velocity of the fluid flow exhibits minimal change as it flows from the handle 110 through the swivel hinge joint 300 and into contact with the flow diverter 602. Advantageously, the flow splitter 602 allows for equal distribution of the upper and lower portions of fluid flow to pass into the heater assembly 600 of the body 120 with minimal or no change in fluid velocity in the bent configuration of the hair care appliance. The resulting flow output at outlet 122 further illustrates a constant and substantially equal fluid velocity exiting the upper and lower portions of outlet 122 due to the configuration of flow splitter 602. In the angled configuration, at the high, medium, and low speed settings of the fan assembly 500, the speed (m/s) is measured at 1 inch from the outlet 122 and 4 inches from the outlet 122. The results are shown in table 2.

TABLE 2

Comparing the velocity data associated with the straight configuration with the velocity data associated with the angled configuration, angling the fluid flow path results in only a minimal reduction in the velocity of the fluid flow at each velocity setting. For example, at a high speed setting in the angled configuration, the fluid flow velocity measured 1 inch from the outlet 122 is 89% of the fluid flow velocity observed in the straight configuration (e.g., 31.8 versus 35.6). At the high speed setting in the angled configuration, the fluid flow velocity measured 4 inches from the outlet 122 is 93% of the fluid flow velocity in the straight configuration (e.g., 25.9 versus 27.8). At a moderate speed setting in the angled configuration, the fluid flow velocity measured 1 inch from the outlet 122 is 103% of the fluid flow velocity in the straight configuration (e.g., 25.5 versus 24.8). At a moderate speed setting in the angled configuration, the fluid flow velocity measured 4 inches from the outlet 122 is 96% of the fluid flow velocity in the straight configuration (e.g., 20.0 versus 20.8). At the low speed setting in the angled configuration, the fluid flow velocity measured 1 inch from the outlet 122 is 92% of the fluid flow velocity in the straight configuration (e.g., 20.9 versus 22.7). At the low speed setting in the angled configuration, the fluid flow velocity measured at 4 inches from the outlet 122 is 92% of the fluid flow velocity in the straight configuration (e.g., 17.4 compared to 18.9). Advantageously, at a moderate speed setting, the fluid flow velocity through the hair appliance in the angled configuration is greater than the fluid flow velocity measured 1 inch from the outlet 122 in the straight configuration (e.g., 25.5m/s versus 24.8 m/s).

Thus, the configuration of the appliance and various internal components allows the fluid flow path to have a uniform, consistent fluid flow throughout the diameter of the handle and body between the inlet and outlet in both the straight configuration and the angled configuration. The configuration of the first flow splitter 504 can provide an even, radially distributed fluid flow through the handle and toward the blades of the fan assembly so that the fan does not unevenly accelerate the fluid flow into the heater assembly of the body. The configuration of the second flow splitter 602 can provide balanced fluid flow to the upper and lower aspects of the heater assembly such that fluid is evenly distributed through the heater assembly and exits the hair care appliance via the outlets in the main body. Due to the evenly spaced air flow, the heater can be operated at a higher temperature, thereby preventing any heat build-up on one side of the heater during use.

Fitting cooperation

As indicated previously, the hair care appliance may be further configured to cooperate with one or more accessories for a user-selected hair styling or hair treatment. The one or more appendages can have any configuration, such as concentrators, diffusers, curling bars, curling combs, circular combs, flat combs, comb teeth, and the like. The attachment is removably coupleable to an outlet in the body of the hair care appliance and is securable in place via one or more mating mechanisms configured at the outlet of the body and/or at a mating portion of the single attachment.

In some embodiments, the hair care appliance may include an accessory that is non-removable and permanently attached to the hair care appliance. For example, a comb may be permanently attached, and the hair care appliance may be a "hot" comb configuration. The "hot" comb configuration may include a non-removable comb attached to the hair care appliance described herein.

In some embodiments, the attachment may be configured to nest over the body of the hair care appliance, covering the outlet. The attachment on the sleeve may further extend over the swivel hinge joint in a straight configuration to prevent rotation of the appliance. The sleeve above the swivel hinge joint can provide additional structural support to the hinge during use. The sleeve above the swivel hinge may further prevent the appliance from changing configuration during use. For example, the hair care appliance may have a latch or button that allows the body to be rotated relative to the handle. In some embodiments, a sleeve over the accessory may cover the latch or button so that it cannot be actuated during use of the accessory.

Various features may also be provided to help prevent rotation of the accessory relative to the body of the appliance. For example, the sleeve attachment may include features on an inner surface, such as longitudinally oriented ribs on the inner surface, which may engage with one or more protrusions disposed on the outer surface of the body housing 124. For example, as shown in fig. 33, the main body housing 124 of the appliance 100 includes a recess 350 where a first protrusion 352a rests adjacent the hinge joint 300. The first projection 352a can engage a portion of the interior surface of the accessory that has been slid over the body housing 124. As shown in fig. 34, in which the body case 124 is removed, the second protrusion 352b may be positioned on the opposite side of the body and may protrude from the first body frame 126a. The first projection 340a is shown projecting from the second body frame 126b.

The hair care appliance 100 may include a plurality of interchangeable attachment mating assemblies. For example, the first attachment fitting assembly may include a sleeve design to allow the accessory to fit over the outlet end of the hair care appliance 100. The second attachment mating assembly may include a panel mating design such that the accessory abuts the outlet end of the hair care appliance. The third attachment mating assembly may include a mating collar configured with a protrusion, such as a lug, that may be removably coupled with and secured within a mating portion of the accessory.

Fig. 35A shows a close-up perspective view of the attachment fitting assembly 700 configured at the outlet 122 of the hair care appliance 100. The attachment fitting assembly 700 may be coupled to the first and second body frames 126a, 126b. As shown, the attachment mating assembly 700 includes a mating collar 702 and a mating plate 708. The mating collar 702 may include a plurality of recesses 704 disposed about an outer circumference of the mating collar 702. The recess 704 may be configured to receive one or more engagement features of an accessory configured for use with a hair care appliance, as will be discussed in more detail below. The accessory can slide over the outlet 122 of the body 120 and the engagement features of the accessory can engage and seat within the recess 704 of the mating collar 702 to reduce rotation of the accessory relative to the body 120. Rotation may be reduced or limited by defining protrusions 706 on either side of a given recess 704.

Another embodiment of an attachment mating assembly 6310 can be seen in fig. 35B. An outlet end 6300 in a body 6305 of a hair care appliance similar to appliance 100 may comprise an attachment fitting assembly 6310. The attachment mating assembly 6310 may include

attachment mating plates

6114a and 6114b, each of which may include a plurality of slots 6320. When an attachment having an attachment feature, such as the attachment feature 6225 of the concentrator attachment 6200 shown in fig. 62, is coupled to the outlet end 6300, the user may rotate the concentrator attachment 6200 to engage the attachment features 6225 within the

slots

6114a and 6114b and secure the concentrator attachment 6200 to the hair care implement 100.

The attachment fitting assembly 700 may also include a fitting plate 708 disposed below the fitting collar 702 (e.g., upstream of the outlet 125). The mating plate 708 may include an upper surface 708u upon which a surface of the accessory may abut. The mating plate 708 may also include a mating plate shoulder 708s extending from the upper surface 708 u. The cooperating plate shoulder 708s may be sized and configured for insertion into a receiving portion disposed at the coupling end of the accessory.

As shown in fig. 36, the attachment fitting assembly 700 may also include an outlet trim ring 710 coupled to the fitting collar 702. The outlet trim ring 710 can include one or more surface coatings or coating materials. The mating plate 708 may be coupled to the first and second body frames 126a, 126b via a snap fit or friction fit or using other attachment techniques.

As shown in fig. 37, the mating collar 702 may include an engagement shelf 712. The engagement shelf 712 may be located circumferentially below (e.g., below) the recess 704 and the protrusion 706 on the mating collar 702. The engagement shelf 712 may be sized and configured to receive one or more engagement features of an accessory. For example, hook-shaped engagement features of the accessory may engage the engagement shelf 712 to couple the accessory to the attachment mating component 700. In some embodiments, the engagement shelf 712 may be segmented into segments by separating one or more slots of the respective segments.

In other embodiments, the attachment mating assembly may include a mating collar having a protruding feature, such as a lug, to engage with a mating portion of the accessory to secure the accessory to the outlet end of the hair care appliance 100. The mating portion of the accessory may include a slot in which the lug may be received. The lugs of the mating collar may engage into the openings of the slots of the mating portion of the attachment and the attachment may be rotated onto the outlet end of the hair care appliance 100 such that the lugs travel fully within the slots of the attachment mating portion.

Attaching or detaching an accessory to or from an outlet of a hair care appliance may be performed using an attachment actuator assembly configured at the outlet end of the hair care appliance. The attachment actuator assembly may comprise a user operable latch configured to secure or release attachment of the hair care appliance 100. A user may retract the latch to attach and remove the accessory, and may release the retracted latch to secure the accessory in place. The latch may be coupled to a tab insertable into an opening of the at least one slot of the mating portion of the accessory. When the tab is inserted into the slot opening, rotation of the accessory relative to the outlet end of the hair care appliance is eliminated and the accessory is secured to the hair care appliance.

Fig. 72 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of an attachment fitting assembly 7200 of a hair care appliance 100. The attachment fitting assembly 7200 includes a fitting collar 7205 at the outlet 122 and an attachment actuator assembly 7215 disposed on the main body housing 124. The mating collar 7205 can include one or more protrusions 7210. In some embodiments, the projections 7210 can be lugs, and can project from an inner surface of the mating collar 7205. As shown in fig. 73, the projections 7210 can project from an inner surface 7220 of the mating collar 7205. In some embodiments, the protrusions 7210 can have a teardrop shape, although a variety of non-limiting shapes are contemplated. The shape and size of the projections 7210 can correspond to the shape and size of corresponding receiving portions or slots that can be configured on mating portions of the attachment of the hair care appliance 100. In some embodiments, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 protrusions 7210 may be configured on the inner surface 7220 of the mating collar 7205. In some embodiments, the projections 7210 can be spaced apart along the inner surface 7225 by an equal distance between adjacent projections 7210. In some embodiments, the projections 7210 can be spaced apart along the inner surface by unequal distances between adjacent projections 7210.

The mating collar 7205 also includes at least one recess 7230 configured to receive a tab or projection of the attachment actuator assembly 7215. The recesses 7230 can have a width 7235 that corresponds to the width of the tabs or protrusions of the attachment actuator assembly 7215. When the accessory is mated with the mating collar 7205, the projections 7210 may be advanced into slots disposed on the mating portion of the accessory. Once travel is complete, the user may release a latch 7220 (such as the latch shown in fig. 1) of the attachment actuator assembly 7215 such that a tab portion of the attachment actuator assembly 7215 travels into a recess 7230, thereby locking the accessory in place to prevent rotation of the accessory.

The mating collar 7205 can also include an opening 7240 along the periphery of the bottom portion of the mating collar 7205. The opening 7240 can receive an attachment actuator assembly 7215 therein. The opening 7240 can have a width 7245 that corresponds to the width of the attachment actuator assembly 7215. The mating collar 7205 can also include one or more shoulder elements 7250 protruding from the sides of the mating collar 7205 at one or more locations. The shoulder elements 7250 can be configured to allow the mating collar 7205 to be friction or snap fit with a vent ring, such as vent ring 7715 shown in fig. 77. The mating collar 7205 can also include slots 7255 positioned at one or more locations around the circumference of the outer surface 7260 of the mating collar 7215. The slots 7255 can be configured to secure the mating collar 7205 to the body housing 124.

Attachment actuator assembly 7215 may include latch 7220, as shown in FIG. 72. The latch 7220 can be coupled to a bottom 7260 of an attachment actuator assembly 7215, as shown in fig. 74. In some embodiments, latch 720 may be integrated with bottom 7260. The bottom 7260 can be coupled to a compression element 7265 of an attachment actuator assembly 7215. Depressing the latch 7220 can cause the bottom 7260 to compress the compression element 7265, causing the bottom to retract from the mating collar 7205. In some embodiments, compression element 7265 can be a spring, as shown in fig. 74. The bottom 7260 can travel within the body frame 7275 of the hair care appliance. The body frame 7275 may correspond to the first body frame 126a or the second body frame 126b, as shown and described with respect to fig. 7. The bottom 7260 can also include projections or tabs 7280. In some embodiments, the protruding portion 7280 can be coupled to the bottom portion 7260. Tabs 7280 can extend from the bottom 7260 into the mating collar 7205 to secure the accessory within the mating collar 7205. For example, after a user has coupled an accessory to the mating collar 7205, the user may release the latch 7220. Thus, the compressible elements 7265 can extend to push the bottom 7260 toward the mating collar 7205 such that the tabs 7280 extend into the recesses 7230 shown in fig. 73 and into slots included in the mating portion of the accessory. In fig. 75, the mating collar 7205 has been removed to show tabs 7280 extending from the bottom 7260 of the attachment actuator assembly 7215. Retracting the latch 7220 can move the tabs 7280 away and out of the mating collar 7205 so that the accessory can be removed from the body housing 124.

Attachment actuator assembly 7215 can be seen in detail in fig. 76A, showing attachment actuator assembly 7215 engaged with attachment mating portion 7600 of an accessory according to embodiments described herein. As shown in fig. 76A, the body housing 124 has been removed for illustration, and the exterior of the attachment fitting portion 7600 can be seen. The attachment mating portion 7600 can include an attachment mating collar 7605. The attachment mating collar 7605 can include one or more slots 7610. The slot 7610 may include an opening that may receive the tab 7280. When the latch 7220 is released, the tab 7280 can extend or travel into the slot 7610 to secure the attachment fitting portion 7600 to the outlet 122 of the body 120 of the hair care appliance 100. In fig. 76B, a cross-sectional view of the attachment actuator assembly 7215 engaged with the attachment mating portion 7600 is shown. The cross-sectional view shows an interior perspective view of the attachment actuator assembly 7215 engaged with the mating collar 7205 and the tabs 7210 engaged with the attachment mating portions 7600. The user has rotated the attachment mating portion 7600 into contact with the mating collar 7205 such that the projections 7210 have traveled into the receiving end at the end of the slot 7610, as shown in fig. 76B. Once the projection 7210 is fully engaged within the slot 7610, the user can release the latch 7220 such that the tab 7280 extends or travels into the slot 7610 to fully secure (and thereby attach) the attachment mating portion 7600 to the mating collar 7205 of the hair care appliance 100. Thus, rotation of the accessory relative to the body 120 may be reduced or eliminated.

The hair care appliance 100 may further comprise a grid 7700 configured at the outlet 122, as shown in fig. 77. The grid 7700 can include a plurality of vane elements 7705 extending radially from the central portion 7710. Although the vane elements 7705 of grid 7700 are shown in a radially shaped pattern, a variety of non-limiting patterns are contemplated, including a diagonal shaped pattern, a mesh pattern, or a concentric shaped pattern of vane elements 7705. The outlet 122 may also include an outlet ring 7715. The outlet ring may be coupled to the mating collar 7205 via a snap fitting.

Accessory

As explained above, the hair care appliance can be configured to mate with many different types of accessories or attachments via the interchangeable mating components of the hair care appliance 100. The attachment may be included in an accessory kit provided with the hair care appliance 100 or separate from the hair care appliance. Fig. 38-68 illustrate various exemplary embodiments of an accessory for use with the hair care appliance 100, however, one skilled in the art will appreciate that any accessory known in the art may be used with the appliance 100.

Fig. 38 shows a circular comb attachment 3800 that includes an inlet 3805 at which a fluid flow can be received from a hair care implement described herein. The circular comb attachment 3800 can also include a cap 3810 having a plurality of apertures 3815 disposed in the cap 3810. In some embodiments, the holes 3815 may be filled with card wire. The circular comb attachment 3800 can also include an end cap 3820 and a base 3825. The end cap 3820 can include one or more release mechanisms 3830 configured to release a latch mechanism disposed within the circular comb attachment 3800 from engagement with features of the attachment mating assembly 700 described with respect to fig. 35-37.

As shown in fig. 39, the circular comb attachment 3800 can fit over the main body 120 of the hair care appliance 100. The comb attachment 3800 (as well as embodiments of other attachments described herein) may be nested over the main body 120 so as to cover the swivel hinge joint 300. In this way, rotation of the accessory relative to the body 120 may be reduced. Fluid flow provided at the outlet 120 of the body may be transferred into the end cap 3820 via a fluid flow path P (shown via dashed lines) and out via an annular outlet 3915 disposed on a lower surface of the end cap 3820. The arrangement of the fluid flow path 3910 can advantageously direct a greater amount of fluid down the surface of the circular comb attachment 3800 rather than out away from the surface. In addition, the arrangement of the fluid flow path 3910 changes the direction of fluid flow from a first direction within the circular comb attachment 3800 to a second, opposite direction outside the circular comb attachment (e.g., downward along the outer surface of the circular comb attachment 3800). Redirecting the fluid flow path in the opposite direction at the outlet 3915 upon entering the circular comb attachment 3800 may create a fluid curtain effect down the outer surface of the circular comb attachment 3800. During use, this arrangement of the fluid flow path 3910 does not cause hair to move from the surface away from the comb attachment. In some embodiments, a hand guard can be provided at the bottom 3825 of the circular comb attachment 3800. The hand guard can prevent fluid of the fluid flow path 3910 from contacting the user's hand as it travels down the outer surface of the circular comb attachment 3800.

As shown in fig. 40, the attachment fitting assembly 4000 may be positioned between the end cap 3820 and the attachment frame 4005. The attachment frame 4005 may form a body of the circular comb attachment 3800 and may be sleeved over an outlet end of the body of the hair care appliance described herein. Attaching the mating assembly 4000 may include one or more release mechanisms 3830 coupled to either side of the mating assembly board 4015. The release mechanism 3830 may be configured to release the latch mechanism 4020 from engagement with the attachment mating assembly 700 described in connection with the hair care appliance shown in fig. 35-37. For example, the latch mechanism 4020 may include a hook feature configured to engage with the engagement bracket 712 shown in fig. 37.

As shown in fig. 41, the end cap 3820 is shown removed in fig. 38-40 for clarity. The release mechanism 3830 may be disposed on an upper surface of the mating assembly board 4015 and the latch mechanism 4020 may be disposed on a bottom surface of the mating assembly board 4015. Actuating the release mechanism 3830 by pushing them towards the centre of the circular comb attachment 3800 will cause the latch mechanism 4020 to also move towards the centre of the circular comb attachment. Thus, the hook engaging feature on the latch mechanism 4020 will move out of engagement with the engagement shelf 712 of the attachment mating assembly 700 in the body of the hair care appliance, such that the accessory 3800 can be removed from the body of the hair care appliance. Although described with respect to a circular comb attachment, in some embodiments, one or more attachment fitting assemblies 4000 may be included on any of the attachments described herein.

As shown in fig. 42, the circular comb attachment 3800 may include a plurality of protrusions 4205 protruding downward from an upper inner surface of the attachment frame 4005. In some embodiments, the protrusion 4205 may be configured to be disposed on an engagement plate between the attachment frame 4005 and the mating assembly plate 4015. In some embodiments, the protrusions may be formed on the mounting assembly board 4015. When the accessory is coupled to the hair care appliance, the protrusion 4205 is engageable with the recess 704 of the attachment fitting assembly 700 shown in fig. 35-37 and is configured in the body of the hair care appliance 100. When the protrusion 4205 is engaged within the recess 704 of the attachment fitting assembly 700, rotation of the accessory relative to the body of the hair care appliance 100 may advantageously be restricted.

As further shown in fig. 42, the circular comb attachment 3800 can include a plurality of ribs 4210 extending longitudinally along an inner surface of the attachment frame 4005. The ribs 4210 may be configured and spaced apart to engage with protrusions 340a, 340b configured on the body frames 126a, 126b and protruding through the body housing 124, as shown in fig. 33-34. When the circular comb attachment 3800 is nested over the body case 124, the ribs 4210 may engage with the protrusions 340a, 340b to advantageously limit rotation of the circular comb attachment 3800 relative to the body of the hair care appliance described herein.

Although the configuration of the protrusion 4205 and the rib 4210 are described with respect to the circular comb attachment 3800, any attachment described herein may include, without limitation, the configuration of the protrusion 4205 and/or the rib 4210.

Fig. 43 illustrates a crimping accessory 4300 that may include an inlet 4305 fluidly coupled to a body 4114 a. The inlet 4305 may be coupled with an outlet end of the hair care appliance 100 such that fluid expelled from the hair care appliance 100 via the outlet 122 enters the crimping accessory 4300 at the inlet 4305. A spindle 4114b may be disposed in the body 4114a and may be coupled to one or more rollers 4320. Roller 4320 may allow a user to manually rotate spindle 4114b to curl hair. High velocity air slot 4325 may be disposed in the top of body 4114 a.

As shown in fig. 44, fluid flow is illustrated by a plurality of flow lines extending between the inlet 4305 and the outlet 4330. Fluid flowing into inlet 4305 is provided to focusing chamber 4335 and then directed to crimping chamber 4340 via conduit 4345. The user may place his hair near the high velocity air slot 4325 at the top of the tool. The high velocity air may entrain hair and cause hair to wrap around spindle 4114 b. After letting the hair heat for 5-10 seconds, the user may use the blow-out feature 402 shown in the user interface 401 described with respect to fig. 20 to help set the style. The hair is then pulled out of the crimping attachment 4300. Spindle 4114b should be free to rotate to prevent any binding.

Figure 45 shows a different embodiment of a crimp attachment. The crimp attachment 4500 shown in fig. 45 may include an inlet 4505 at which fluid flow from the hair care appliance 100 may be received. The inlet 4505 can be fluidly coupled to a focusing body 4510. The concentrating chamber 4510 may be fluidly coupled to the crimping chamber 4515. The crimping chamber 4515 may include a spindle 4520 and an outlet 4525. In some embodiments, the main shaft 4520 may have a tapered shape. Outlet 4252 may comprise a plurality of apertures for fluid flow into inlet 4505 for discharge from crimp 4505. The crimp attachment 4500 may also include an opening 4530 in which a user may provide hair to be crimped about the spindle 4520.

Fig. 46 shows another embodiment of a crimping accessory 4600 with an inlet 4605 at which a fluid flow can be received from a hair care appliance 100. Fluid flow may enter the focusing chamber 4610 and be provided to the curling chamber 4615. The crimping chamber may be formed in a housing 4620 that includes a plurality of openings 4625 to vent fluid flow from the crimping attachment 4600. The crimping accessory 4600 may include a main shaft 4630 within a housing 4620. In some embodiments, the length of the main shaft 4630 may have a tapered shape. Hairs may be provided into the openings 4635 and the hairs may be curled around the main shaft 4630.

In another embodiment shown in fig. 47, a crimp attachment is provided and includes a plate 4640 coupled to the end of the concentrating chamber 4610 and the crimp chamber 4615. The main shaft 4630 may be rotatable relative to the plate 4630. The curling chamber 4615 may include an open end 4645 at which curled hair may be removed from the main shaft 4630. As shown in fig. 48, the spindle 4630 may extend from the plate 4640 into the crimping chamber 4615. As shown in fig. 49, uncurled hair 4650 may be provided into the opening 4635 and, due to the fluid flow provided to the inlet 4605 via the hair care appliance attached to the crimping attachment 4600, hair may be drawn into the opening. As the fluid flows through the crimping attachments 4600, the hair 4650 is drawn into the crimping chamber 4615 and wound around the main shaft 4630, and the hair may be crimped. The curled hair 4655 may be removed from the curling chamber 4615 at the open end 4645.

Fig. 50 shows a barrel-shaped crimping attachment 5000 that may be configured for use with hair care appliance 100. Barrel crimp attachment 5000 may include inlet 5005 and barrel 5010. Barrel 5010 can include a plurality of plates 5015, such as

plates

5015A and 5015B. The plate 5015 can be configured to spread away from a central longitudinal axis of the barrel 5010. The fluid flow path may be along a central longitudinal axis of the barrel 5010. A rolling assembly 5020 can be disposed at the outlet end 5025 and the inlet end 5030. The rolling assemblies 5050 may enable the plates 5015 to spread radially outward to expand the diameter of the cartridge 5020. In this way, hair may be curled to different curl sizes based on the setting of the roller 5020. The rolling assemblies 5020 can be individually sized such that the cartridges taper from the outlet end 5025 to the inlet end 5030. The cartridge curling apparatus 5000 can include a rolling assembly frame 5035 to which a rolling assembly 5020 can be mounted.

As shown in fig. 51, the rolling assembly 5020 may be in an initial configuration corresponding to the undeployed arrangement of the plates 5015. The rolling assembly 5020 can include a housing 5040 and one or more attachment tabs 5045 configured to couple the housing 5040 to the rolling assembly frame 5035. The roll plate 5050 may be disposed within the housing 5040 and may include an adjustment tab 5055 thereon. The user can rotate the adjustment tab 5055 to rotate the plate 5050 within the housing 5040. As the user rotates the adjustment tab 5055 (and thus the rotation plate 5050), the extension element 5060 may extend radially outward to move the plate 5015 away from the central longitudinal axis of the barrel crimp attachment 5000.

As shown in fig. 52, the user has rotated the adjustment tab 5055 to a position opposite the position associated with the initial configuration shown in fig. 51. Thus, the rolling assembly 5020 of fig. 52 is shown in an expanded configuration. Rotation of the adjustment tab 5055 may rotate the roll plate 5050 and drive the extension element 5060 radially outward. Thus, the plate 5015 also extends radially outward. In this manner, the outer diameter of the cylindrical crimp attachment 5000 is configurable by the user to allow styling of hair to various crimp sizes.

Fig. 53 illustrates an embodiment of a wound cylindrical crimp attachment 5300 that may be configured with a rotation mechanism 5305 within housing 5310. The wound cylindrical crimping accessory 5300 can be configured to wind hair into a coil such that the hair can be repeatedly crimped. The fluid flow passageway 5315 may extend from an inlet 5320 disposed in an inlet housing 5340 of the wound cylindrical crimp attachment 5300, through a flow passageway chamber 5325 of the flow passageway housing 5330, and to a vent 5335 disposed on one side of the housing 5310. Fig. 54 is an image showing the wound cylindrical crimp attachment 5300 of fig. 53.

Fig. 55 shows an embodiment of a circular comb attachment 5500 that may include a plurality of plates 5505 extending between an end cap 5510 and a base 5515. The plurality of plates 5505 may include one or more holes 5520 and one or more slots 5525 configured on the respective plate 5505. In some embodiments, the card wire may be disposed on one or more boards 5505. A variety of hole sizes and arrangements can be envisioned on the plate 5505 without limitation. The circular comb attachment 5500 may comprise a fluid flow path therein extending from an inlet 5530 through an interior volume of the circular comb attachment 5500 and outwardly via a bore 5520 and/or a slot 5525.

The plates 5505 may be disposed within an end cap 5510 and a base 5515 such that each plate 5505 may be rotatably hinged about the circumference of the circular comb attachment 5500. For example, when a user pulls the comb attachment 5500 through their hair in a first direction, the plate 5505 may rotate clockwise relative to a central longitudinal axis extending through the circular comb attachment 5500. The plate 5505 may be parallel to the central longitudinal axis of the circular comb attachment 5500. When a user pulls the comb attachment 5500 through their hair in a second direction, opposite the first direction, the plate may rotate counterclockwise relative to the central longitudinal axis of the circular comb attachment 5500. The fluid flow path may displace fluid out of the hole 5520 and/or slot 5525 based on the direction of rotation of the plate.

As shown in fig. 56A, circular comb attachment 5500 is shown in a neutral position. In this position, the blocking of the outlet 5535 disposed within the fluid flow path provides fluid flow through the plate 5505. As shown in fig. 56B, when the circular comb attachment 5500 moves in a first direction, the plate 5505 rotates clockwise to allow the outlet 5535 to open and provide fluid flow via the aperture 5520. As shown in fig. 56C, when the circular comb attachment 5500 moves in the first second, the plate 5505 rotates counterclockwise to allow the outlet 5535 to open and provide fluid flow via the slot 5525.

As shown in fig. 57, a base 5515 of the circular comb attachment 5500 may include an alignment feature 5540 configured to limit circumferential rotation of the plate 5505. The alignment feature 5540 may include a retention frame 5545 configured to couple with an end portion 5550 of the plate 5505 protruding through the bottom 5515 and into the retention frame 5545.

Fig. 58 illustrates an embodiment of a diffuser 5800 that may include a body portion 5805 and a mating portion 5810. The body portion 5805 may be an outlet end of the diffuser 5800, where a flow of fluid received via the inlet opening 5815 of the mating portion 5810 may be provided for styling hair. The body portion 5805 can include a plurality of projections 5820 extending away from an inner surface of the body portion 5820. One or more projections may include apertures 5825 for fluid flow away from the projections 5820.

The mating portion 5810 may include one or more release mechanisms 5830. The release mechanism 5830 may release the latch mechanism 5835 from engagement with the engagement frame 712 of the attachment fitting assembly 700 described with reference to fig. 35. Pressing the release mechanism 5830 toward the center of the mating portion 5810 may release the latch mechanism 5835 from the engagement frame 712. As further shown in fig. 58, the mating portion may include a plurality of detents 5840 disposed on an inner collar 5845 of the mating portion 5810. The detents 5840 may be received within and engage with the recesses 704 of the attachment fitting assembly 700 described with reference to fig. 35. Once engaged, the detents 5840 can limit rotation of the diffuser 5800 relative to the body of the hair care appliance 100 described herein.

As shown in fig. 59, the diffuser 5800 can include a flow conditioner 5850 configured to alter the fluid flow provided by the diffuser attachment 5800. A user may alter fluid flow by adjusting the flow conditioning member 5850 within the flow conditioning track 5855. The plurality of projections 5820 are movable relative to the body portion, thereby increasing or decreasing the length of the plurality of projections 5820.

Fig. 60 shows a cross-sectional view of diffuser attachment 5800. As shown, the disc 5860 may be configured to have a particular shape configured to turn air toward an edge of the body portion 5805 of the diffuser 5800. In some embodiments, the disc 5860 is suspended from a central region of the body portion 5805. In this manner, fluid flow is not provided directly into a central region of the body portion 5805, and is actually redirected toward the periphery of the body portion 5805, such that a more uniform fluid flow is provided via the projections 5820 and

apertures

5825, 5865. The disc 5860 may be coupled to the internal frame 5870 via a snap fit or a friction fit. The internal frame 5870 may be coupled with the body portion 5805, the mating portion 5810, and the body portion cover 5875. The fluid flow path 5880 through diffuser attachment 5800 can be seen in fig. 61.

Fig. 62 illustrates an embodiment of a concentrator 6200 that may include a body portion 6205 and a mating portion 6210. A fluid flow path may be provided between the inlet 6215 of the mating portion 6210 and the outlet 6220 of the body portion 6205. The mating portion 6210 can include one or more attachment features 6225 that can radially protrude from the mating collar 6230 and can couple the concentrator 6200 with the attachment mating assembly 6300 shown in fig. 35B. For example, the attachment features 6225 can be received in and secured within the

slots

6114a and 6114 b. The body portion 6205 may be rotated relative to the mating portion 6210 so that the outlet position may be set by a user.

Fig. 63 illustrates another embodiment of a concentrator 6300 that may include a mating portion 6305 and a main body portion 6310. The fluid flow path may extend from the inlet end 6315 to the outlet end 6320. Fluid flow may be provided via opening 6325. Various non-limiting shapes and sizes of openings 6325 are contemplated. In this embodiment, the concentrator attachment 6300 can include a flow conditioner 6330 configured to alter the fluid flow provided by the concentrator attachment 6300. A user may alter fluid flow by adjusting a flow adjustment member 6330 within the flow adjustment track 6335. Fig. 64 shows a bottom side perspective view of the concentrator attachment 6300.

As shown in fig. 65, the concentrator attachment 6500 can include a mating portion 6505 and a body portion 6510. The fluid flow path may extend through the concentrator sub 6500 from the inlet end 6515 to the outlet end 6520. Fluid flow may be provided through the outlet port 6520. Various non-limiting shapes and sizes of the outlet end 6520 are contemplated. As further shown in fig. 65, the concentrator attachment 6500 can include a flow modifier 6525 configured to modify the fluid flow provided by the concentrator attachment 6500. A user may alter fluid flow by adjusting the flow adjuster 6525 within the flow adjustment track 6530.

The mating portion 6505 may include one or more release mechanisms 6535 configured to release the latch mechanism 6540 from an engagement bracket 712 included in the hair care appliance described herein and shown in fig. 35-37 to which the mating assembly 700 is attached. Mating portion 6505 may also include a mating collar 6545 that may be inserted into attachment mating assembly 700. The mating collar 6545 may include one or more tab features 6550 engageable with the engagement shelf 712 and/or may be configured as a slot formed within the engagement shelf 712. The mating collar 6545 may also include one or more ribs 6550 configured to engage with the slot portion of the engagement shelf 712. The tab features 6545 and the ribs 6550 can limit or reduce rotation of the concentrator attachment 6500 relative to the body of the hair care appliance 100 described herein.

Fig. 66 illustrates an embodiment of a crimp attachment 6600 that may include a mating portion 6605 and a body portion 6610. The inlet 6615 may be disposed in the mating portion 6605. A fluid flow path may be disposed between the inlet 6615 and the outlet 6620. The outlet 6620 may be disposed between plates 6625 that extend along a central longitudinal axis of the crimp attachment 6600. A plate 6625 may be secured between the end cap 6630 and the mating housing 6635. The plate 6625 can be configured to rotate clockwise and counterclockwise relative to a central longitudinal axis of the crimp attachment 6600 such that hair can be crimped in multiple directions.

As further shown in fig. 66, the crimp attachment 6600 may include one or more release mechanisms 6640 disposed in the mating housing 6635. The release mechanism 6640 may release the latch mechanism 6645 from the engagement frame 712 of the attachment fitting assembly described with reference to fig. 35-37. Pressing the release mechanism 6640 toward the mating housing 6635 will cause the latch mechanism 6645 to be released from the engagement frame 712. As further shown in fig. 66, the mating portion 6605 can include a mating collar 6650. The mating collar 6650 may include a plurality of protrusions or detents 6655 that may engage with the recesses 704 of the attachment mating assembly described with reference to fig. 35-37. The engagement of the detent 6655 with the recess 704 can limit or reduce rotation of the crimp attachment 6600 relative to the body of the hair care appliance 100 described herein.

Fig. 67 illustrates one exemplary embodiment of a large plate comb attachment 6700 configured for use with the hair care appliance 100. As shown in fig. 67, the large plate comb attachment 6700 can include a mating portion 6705 and a body portion 6710. The fluid flow path may extend from the inlet 6715 through the large plate comb attachment 6700 and out of the apertures 6720 in the body portion 6710. In some embodiments, one or more of the apertures 6720 can comprise card wire. A non-limiting arrangement of the holes 6720 and the card wires can be envisaged on the body portion 6710. In some embodiments, the apertures 6720 and the comb pins may be positioned on a single plane. In other embodiments, the apertures 6720 and the comb pins can wrap around the front face of the large plate comb attachment 6700.

As further shown in fig. 67, the mating portion 6705 can include one or more release mechanisms 6725. The release mechanism 6725 can release the latch mechanism 6730 from the engagement frame 712 of the attachment mating assembly described with reference to fig. 35-37. Pressing the release mechanism 6725 toward the central longitudinal axis extending through the large panel comb attachment 6700 will cause the latch mechanism 6730 to be released from the engagement frame 712. As further shown in fig. 67, the mating portion 6705 can include a mating collar 6735. The mating collar 6735 may include a plurality of protrusions or detents 6740 that may engage with the recesses 704 of the attachment mating assembly described with reference to fig. 35-37. The engagement of the detents 6740 with the recesses 704 can limit or reduce rotation of the large plate comb attachment 6700 relative to the body of the hair care appliance 100 described herein.

Fig. 78 illustrates an embodiment of a diffuser 7800 configured for use with the attachment fitting assembly 7200 of fig. 72. The illustrated diffuser 7800 includes a body portion 7805 and a mating portion 7820. The mating portion 7280 can correspond to the accessory mating portion 7600 described with reference to fig. 76A-76B. The body portion 7805 can be an outlet end of the diffuser 7800 at which fluid flow received through the opening 7825 of the mating portion 7820 can be provided for hair styling. The body portion 7805 can include a plurality of tabs 7810 extending away from an inner surface of the body portion 7805. One or more tabs 7810 may include holes 7815 for the flow of fluid away from the tabs 7810.

The mating portion 7820 may include a mating collar 7830 configured with one or more slots 7835. The slot 7835 may correspond to the slot 7610 described with reference to the attachment mating portion 7600 shown and described in fig. 76A-76B. Slot 7835 may include an opening 7840 and a receiving end 7845. The protrusions 7210 of the attachment fitting assembly 7200 can be inserted into the openings 7840 of the slots 7835 and can travel to the receiving end 7845 as the user rotates the accessory onto the outlet end 122 of the body housing 124. When the protrusion 7210 has reached the receiving end 7845, the user can release the latch 7220 such that the tab 7280 travels toward the exit end 122 and becomes positioned within the opening 7840 and the slot 7835. In this manner, the tab 7820 can fill a portion of the slot 7835, thereby preventing the protrusion 7210 from rotating away or away from the receiving end 7845. Thus, the accessory can be secured to the body housing 124 and rotation of the accessory relative to the body housing is substantially reduced or eliminated. Retracting the latch 7220 can advance the tab 7280 from the slot 7835 and as the user rotates the attachment for removal from the body housing 124, the projection 7210 can advance from the receiving end 7845 to the opening 7840, thereby decoupling the attachment from the body housing 124 of the hair care appliance 100. The attachment mating portion 7220 may be configured on any of the accessories described herein and illustrated with particular reference to the embodiment of the accessory shown in fig. 78-84B.

Diffuser 7800 can also include a flow modifier 7850 configured to alter the fluid flow provided by diffuser attachment 7800, as shown in fig. 79. A user may alter fluid flow by adjusting a flow adjustment member 7850 within the flow adjustment track 7855.

Fig. 80 shows a cross-sectional view of diffuser attachment 7800. As shown, the baffle 7870 may be configured to divert air toward an edge of the body portion 7805 of the diffuser 7800. In some embodiments, the baffle 7870 may be disk-shaped. In some embodiments, the flap 7870 is suspended in a central region of the body portion 7805. In this manner, fluid flow is not provided directly into the central region of the body portion 7805, and is actually redirected toward the outer periphery of the body portion 7805 such that a more uniform fluid flow is provided via the tabs 7810 and

apertures

7815, 7865. The baffle 7870 may be coupled to an extension element 7875 protruding from a lower surface of the body surface cover 7865. In this manner, the baffle 7870 may be suspended from a lower surface of the body surface cover 7865. In some embodiments, the baffle 7870 may include an aperture therein as an inlet or outlet for the gas flow. In some embodiments, the baffle 7870 may not include any apertures therein. The tab 7810 may be coupled via a frame 7880 disposed within the body portion 7805. The frame 7880 may be formed as a grid or matrix structure with openings 7885 therein for fluid flow paths to travel through the frame 7880. The fluid flow path 7890 through the diffuser attachment 7800 can be seen in fig. 81.

Fig. 82A illustrates another exemplary embodiment of a concentrator attachment configured for use with hair care appliance 100 including attachment fitting assembly 7200 of fig. 72. The fluid flow path may extend from an inlet end 8205 to an outlet end 8210. Fluid flow may be provided through opening 8210. Various non-limiting shapes and sizes of opening 8210 are contemplated. In this embodiment, the concentrator attachment 8200 can include a flow conditioner 8220 configured to alter the fluid flow provided by the concentrator attachment 8200. A user may alter fluid flow by adjusting a flow conditioning member 8220 within the flow conditioning track 8225. FIG. 82B shows a bottom perspective view of the concentrator attachment 8200. Fig. 82C shows a side perspective view of a concentrator attachment 8200. As shown in fig. 82C, the outlet end 8210 can include an opening 8230. Various non-limiting shapes and sizes of openings 8230 are contemplated.

Fig. 83A illustrates another exemplary embodiment of a crimp attachment 8300 configured for use with a hair care appliance 100 including the attachment fitting assembly 7200 shown and described with reference to fig. 72. The crimp attachment 8300 may include a mating portion 7820 and a body portion 8305. The inlet 8315 may be disposed in the fitting portion 7820. A fluid flow path may be disposed between the inlet 8315 and the outlet 8320. The outlet 8320 may be disposed between plates 8310 that extend along the central longitudinal axis of the crimp attachment 8300. A plate 8310 may be secured between the end cap 8325 and the mating portion 7820. The plate 8310 may be configured to rotate clockwise and counterclockwise relative to the central longitudinal axis of the crimp attachment 8300 such that hair may be crimped in multiple directions.

As shown in fig. 83B, some of the plates 8310 have been removed to show the internal frame 8330 of the roll attachment 8300. The frame 8330 may include a plurality of outlets 8335 formed between frame elements of the frame 8330. A fluid flow path may be received via inlet 8315, through the interior of frame 8330, through opening 8335 and out of the crimp attachment 8300 via outlet 8320. Various non-limiting shapes and sizes of the frame 8330 and the opening 8335 formed by the frame element are contemplated.

Fig. 84A illustrates another exemplary embodiment of a circular comb attachment 8400 configured for use with a hair care appliance 100 including the attachment fitting assembly 7200 shown and described with reference to fig. 72. The circular comb attachment 8400 can receive a fluid flow from the hair care appliance 100 via the inlet 8405. The circular comb attachment 8400 can include a cover 8410 having a plurality of outlets, such as holes 8415 and slots 8420, formed in the cover 8410 through which fluid flow can pass. The circular comb attachment 8400 can include comb pins 8425 that protrude through the apertures 8415. In some embodiments, one or more combs 8425 may protrude through the apertures 8415. A cover 8410 may be positioned between the end cover 8430 and the mating portion 7820.

The fluid flow received via the inlet 8405 can be diffused via a diffuser plate 8435 that includes a hole 8440 as shown in fig. 84B that illustrates a cross-sectional perspective view of the circular comb attachment 8400 of fig. 84A. Non-limiting variations in the shape, size, and pattern of the apertures 8440 are contemplated. The inner body 8450 may include slots 8455 in various non-limiting shapes, sizes, and patterns. Fluid flow may be advantageously directed to the holes 8415 and

slots

8420, 8455 via the baffle 8445. The baffle 8445 may be positioned within the inner body 8450 and may be coupled to or integrated with the end cap 8430. The inner body 8450 may be coupled to the mating portion 7820 and the end cap 8430. A gap 8455 may be formed between an outer surface of the inner body 8450 and an inner surface of the cover 8410. The gap 8455 may be sized to advantageously provide fluid flow through the apertures 8415 and the slots 8420. In some embodiments, the baffle 8445 is a hollow structure that does not include an inlet or an outlet. In some embodiments, the baffle 8445 can be a solid structure that does not include an inlet or an outlet. In some embodiments, the baffles 8445 may be hollow structures or solid structures and may include at least one inlet and at least one outlet.

Fig. 85A illustrates another exemplary embodiment of a large plate comb attachment 8500 configured for use with a hair care appliance 100 including the attachment fitting assembly 7200 of fig. 72. The large plate comb attachment 8500 can include a mating portion 7820 and an inlet 8505. A cover 8510 may be coupled between the mating portion 7820 and the end cap 8515. The cover 8510 may include a hole 8520 and a slot 8525 configured as an outlet of the large plate comb attachment 8500. Various non-limiting shapes, sizes and patterns of apertures 8520 and slots 8525 are contemplated. A plurality of bristles 8530 may extend through the cover 8510 via holes 8520. A fluid flow path may extend from inlet 8505 through large plate comb attachment 8500 and out of aperture 8520 and slot 8525. In some embodiments, the apertures 8520 and the comb pins 8530 may be positioned on a single plane. In other embodiments, the apertures 8520 and the comb pins 8530 can wrap around the front face of the large plate comb attachment 8500.

The fluid flow path through large plate comb attachment 8500 can be directed toward the front and sides of the large plate comb attachment by flow diverter 8540 shown in fig. 85B, which shows a cutaway perspective view of large plate comb attachment 8500. The diverter 8540 may be positioned within the large plate comb attachment between the cap 8510 and the housing 8535. Flow diverter 8540 may include a plurality of curved blades 8545 to direct fluid flow within large plate comb attachment 8500. As shown in fig. 86, the flow diverter 8540 may include a frame 8550 extending between a base 8555 and a head 8560. The bottom 8555 may include an opening 8565 corresponding to the inlet 8505. Various non-limiting shapes, numbers, and sizes of the frame 8550 and blades 8545 are contemplated to advantageously divert fluid flow received at the opening 8555 along the frame 8550 and toward the aperture 8520 and slot 8525 in the cover 8510.

The attachment mating mechanisms and assemblies of the improved hair care appliance described herein yield numerous advantages. For example, the attachment may be secured to the hair care appliance using a double fit technique. First, the attachment mating mechanisms (e.g., hook-shaped features formed as segmented concentric rings or protrusions of a mating collar) at the outlet of the body housing may interface with the mating mechanisms (e.g., longitudinally oriented ridges or slots) of the accessory to couple to and reduce rotation of the accessory and the body. The attachment actuator assembly can eliminate rotation of the accessory relative to the body housing by actuating to insert the tab into the slot of the mating portion of the accessory. Second, the accessory may be configured to extend over the outlet in a sleeve configuration. In addition, when the accessory is fastened to the outlet, the sleeve may enable a more compact design of the hair care appliance and may enhance the user experience due to the compact design.

Certain exemplary embodiments have been described to provide an overall understanding of the principles of the structure, function, manufacture, and use of the systems, devices, and methods disclosed herein. One or more examples of these embodiments are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Those skilled in the art will understand that the systems, devices, and methods specifically described herein and illustrated in the accompanying drawings are non-limiting exemplary embodiments and that the scope of the present invention is defined solely by the claims. Features illustrated or described in connection with one exemplary embodiment may be combined with features of other embodiments. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention. Moreover, in the present disclosure, similarly named components of the embodiments generally have similar features, and thus, within a particular embodiment, every feature of every similarly named component is not necessarily fully detailed.

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", "about" and "substantially", are not to be limited to the precise value specified. In at least some examples, 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; unless content or language indicates otherwise, such ranges are identified and include all sub-ranges contained therein.

Furthermore, those skilled in the art will appreciate further features and advantages of the invention based on the above-described embodiments. Accordingly, the application is not limited by what has been particularly shown and described, except as indicated by the appended claims. All publications and references cited herein are expressly incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

Claims

1. A hair care appliance, characterized by comprising:

a handle and a body movably coupled to one another at a joint such that the body is movable between a straight configuration in which the body is longitudinally aligned with a longitudinal axis of the handle and a curved configuration in which the body extends along an axis transverse to the longitudinal axis of the handle, the handle and the body having a fluid flow path extending through the handle and the body from an inlet in the handle to an outlet in the body; and a first flow splitter disposed in the body and configured to divide fluid in the fluid flow path in both the straight configuration and the curved configuration.

2. The hair care appliance of claim 1, wherein the first flow splitter extends in a plane transverse to the longitudinal axis of the body.

3. The hair care appliance of claim 1, further comprising a second flow splitter in the handle.

4. The hair care appliance of claim 3, wherein the second flow splitter distributes the fluid flow in a uniform radial manner within the handle.

5. The hair care appliance of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the joint extends into the fluid flow path such that fluid flow through the joint is non-linear.

6. The hair care appliance of claim 1, wherein the joint comprises a rotary joint rotatable about a plane extending at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the handle, the angle ranging from 30 to 50 degrees.

7. The hair care appliance of claim 1, further comprising a heater positioned between the first flow divider and the outlet, the first flow divider configured to direct the fluid flow through the heater in a radially uniform manner.

8. The hair care appliance of claim 7, wherein the first flow splitter is configured to divide the fluid flow through the heater and the outlet equally into an upper portion and a lower portion.

9. The hair care appliance of claim 1, wherein the first diverter includes rounded edges to reduce turbulence of the fluid flow over the diverter.

10. The hair care appliance of claim 1, wherein the fluid flow path is sealed within the handle and the body.

11. A hair care appliance, characterized by comprising:

a housing comprising a handle having an inlet, a body coupled to the handle and having an outlet, and a fluid flow path through the housing between the inlet and the outlet, the body being movable between a straight configuration in which the body extends along a longitudinal axis of the handle and a curved configuration in which the body extends along an axis transverse to the longitudinal axis of the handle; and

a fan assembly disposed within the housing and configured to generate a fluid flow along the fluid flow path from the inlet to the outlet at a flow rate, wherein the flow rate in the curved configuration is no less than 11% of the flow rate in the straight configuration.

12. The hair care appliance of claim 11, wherein the body extends obliquely to the handle in the curved configuration.

13. The hair care appliance of claim 11, wherein the handle has a length greater than a length of the body.

14. The hair care appliance of claim 11, wherein the flow rate in the curved configuration is in a range of about 18.0 to 31.5m/s and the flow rate in the straight configuration is in a range of about 18.5 to 35.5 m/s.

15. The hair care appliance of claim 11, wherein the maximum to minimum ratio of the flow rates in the curved configuration is about 1.7 and the maximum to minimum ratio of the flow rates in the straight configuration is about 1.6.

16. The hair care appliance of claim 11, wherein the fan assembly is disposed within the handle adjacent a pivot joint formed between the handle and the body.

17. A hair care appliance, characterized by comprising:

a handle and a body movably coupled to one another at a joint, the handle and the body having a fluid flow path extending therethrough from an inlet in the handle to an outlet in the body, the handle having a Printed Circuit Board (PCB), a fan assembly having a central axis and a plurality of blades extending radially outward from the central axis, and a hub disposed between the PCB and the fan assembly including a central dome, the hub configured to direct fluid flowing radially outward around the PCB to the plurality of blades.

18. The hair care appliance of claim 17, wherein the central dome is coupled to the annular frame by one or more dome supports.

19. The hair care appliance of claim 17, wherein a motor frame of the fan assembly includes one or more curved blades for straightening the fluid flow path away from the plurality of blades.

20. A hair care appliance, characterized by comprising:

a handle and a body coupled to the handle at a joint such that the body is movable between a straight configuration in which the body is aligned with a longitudinal axis of the handle and a curved configuration in which the body extends along an axis transverse to the longitudinal axis of the handle, the handle and the body having a center of mass that is located below the longitudinal axis of the body and that is located forward of the longitudinal axis of the handle in the curved configuration.

21. The hair care appliance of claim 20, wherein the handle includes a first end defining an inlet and a second end at the joint, and the body includes a first end at the joint and a second end defining an outlet.

22. The hair care appliance of claim 21, wherein a printed circuit board is located within the handle and is positioned closer to the first end of the handle than to the second end of the handle.

23. The hair care appliance of claim 21, wherein a motor and fan are located within the handle and are positioned closer to the second end of the handle than to the first end of the handle.

24. The hair care appliance of claim 21, wherein a heater is located within the body and is positioned closer to the second end of the body than the first end of the body.

25. The hair care appliance of claim 20, further comprising a heater assembly located in the body and having a center point radially offset from a longitudinal axis extending through the handle when the body is in the curved configuration.

26. The hair care appliance of claim 20, wherein the handle and the body have a center of gravity that is radially offset from a longitudinal axis of the handle and the body in the curved configuration and the straight configuration.

27. The hair care appliance of claim 26, wherein the center of gravity in the curved configuration is radially offset a distance greater than the distance of the center of gravity in the straight configuration from the longitudinal axis.

28. A hair care appliance characterized by comprising:

a handle and a body coupled to the handle at a joint such that the body is movable between a straight configuration in which the body is aligned with a longitudinal axis of the handle and a fully curved configuration in which the body extends along an axis transverse to the longitudinal axis of the handle, the handle and the body having a total length in the straight configuration, and the handle having a length that is about 2/3 of the total length, and the body having a length that is about 1/3 of the total length.

29. The hair care appliance of claim 28, wherein in the straight configuration, the joint is configured to release the body from the handle to initiate rotation of the joint in response to a force in a range of about 3.1N to 3.6N.

30. The hair care appliance of claim 28, wherein in the bent configuration, the joint is configured to release the body from the handle to initiate rotation of the joint in response to a force in a range of about 5.1N to 5.3N.

31. The hair care appliance of claim 28, wherein the joint is configured to rotate in response to a force in a range of about 3.6N to 4.0N when the joint is in a position between the straight configuration and the fully bent configuration.

32. The hair care appliance of claim 28, wherein the joint is configured to rotate in response to a torque in a range of about 0.1N to 0.7N.

33. A hair care appliance, characterized by comprising:

a housing comprising a handle and a body coupled to the handle and movable between a straight configuration in which the body is aligned with a longitudinal axis of the handle and a curved configuration in which the body extends along an axis transverse to the longitudinal axis of the handle;

a fan assembly disposed within the housing and configured to direct fluid along a fluid flow path from a fluid inlet in the housing to a fluid outlet in the housing; and

a heater assembly disposed within the housing and configured to heat fluid flowing through the fluid flow path;

wherein the body is cylindrical with a constant outer diameter and the handle is cylindrical with a tapered outer diameter.

34. The hair care appliance of claim 33, further comprising a rotary joint rotatable to move the body relative to the handle in response to actuation of an actuation mechanism in the handle.

35. The hair care appliance of claim 34, wherein the swivel hinge joint comprises a snap hinge assembly comprising a retainer and a washer on the retainer.

36. The hair care appliance of claim 35, wherein the snap hinge assembly is positioned between a handle hinge plate and a body hinge plate, the handle hinge plate and the body hinge plate being separated by a gap formed between the handle hinge plate and the body hinge plate.

37. The hair care appliance of claim 36, wherein the handle hinge plate includes a first plurality of snap-fit features configured to couple the handle hinge plate to a handle frame, and wherein the body hinge plate includes a second plurality of snap-fit features configured to couple the body hinge plate to a body frame.

38. A hair care appliance, characterized by comprising:

a housing having a handle and a body, the housing having a fluid inlet, a fluid outlet, and a fluid flow path extending through the housing between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet;

a heater assembly disposed in the housing along the fluid flow path and configured to heat fluid flowing through the fluid flow path, the heater assembly comprising

An inner support structure comprising a central axis and a plurality of planar segments extending along and radially outward from the central axis, each planar segment of the plurality of planar segments being circumferentially spaced apart from one another; and

at least one wire element extending circumferentially around the internal support structure such that the internal support structure supports the at least one wire element,

wherein each of the plurality of planar sections comprises a cutout formed in the planar section and configured to allow fluid to flow therethrough.

39. The hair care appliance of claim 38, wherein the heater assembly further comprises a thermistor having first and second connection leads mounted to at least one of the plurality of planar segments to suspend the thermistor in the fluid flow path at the fluid outlet.

40. The hair care appliance of claim 39, wherein the first connecting wire and the second connecting wire together form a U-shaped configuration.

41. The hair care appliance of claim 39, wherein the thermistor is suspended between two adjacent planar segments of the plurality of segments via the first and second connecting wires.

42. The hair care appliance of claim 41, wherein the heater assembly further comprises a fuse coupled to one of the two adjacent planar sections.

43. The hair care appliance of claim 38, further comprising a rotating hinge joint between the handle and the body, wherein wiring for powering the heater assembly runs along a periphery of the rotating hinge joint and along an inner surface of the handle and the body.

44. The hair care appliance of claim 38, wherein the cut formed in each of the plurality of planar segments has a shape selected from the group consisting of a rectangular shape, a square shape, a circular shape, a geometric shape, or an elliptical shape.

45. The hair care appliance of claim 38, wherein the heater assembly further comprises an ionizer coupled to at least one planar segment of the plurality of planar segments.

46. The hair care appliance of claim 38, wherein the heater assembly further comprises a cylindrical housing enclosing the internal support structure and the at least one wire element.

47. A hair care appliance, characterized by comprising:

a housing comprising a handle having a first end having a fluid inlet formed therein and a second end, and a body having a first end coupled to the second end of the handle and a second end having a fluid outlet formed therein;

a fluid path extending through the housing between the fluid inlet in the handle and the fluid outlet in the body;

a fan assembly disposed in the housing along the fluid path for directing fluid from the fluid inlet to the fluid outlet;

a heater assembly disposed in the housing along the fluid path for heating fluid flowing through the fluid path; and

a user interface extending along a portion of the handle and including at least one button for controlling at least one of the fan assembly and the heater assembly, the user interface extending from the first end toward the second end of the handle.

48. The hair care appliance of claim 47, wherein the fluid inlet extends at least partially around a periphery of the handle at the first end of the handle, and the user interface intersects the fluid inlet.

49. The hair care appliance of claim 47, wherein the at least one button is flush or semi-flush with respect to the user interface.

50. The hair care appliance of claim 47, wherein the user interface includes an elongated region having opposing edges extending longitudinally along the handle to facilitate gripping of the handle.

51. The hair care appliance of claim 47, wherein the fluid inlet comprises a substantially C-shaped cylindrical porous outer housing and a filter disposed therein.

52. The hair care appliance of claim 51, wherein the user interface intersects the substantially C-shaped cylindrical porous outer housing and the filter.

53. The hair care appliance of claim 47, wherein the user interface is located in a scalloped portion of the handle.

54. The hair care appliance of claim 47, wherein the user interface includes at least one lighting element that illuminates the at least one button or a surface of the user interface.

55. The hair care appliance of claim 47, further comprising a purge button for turning off the heater assembly to flow unheated fluid through the fluid path.

56. The hair care appliance of claim 47, wherein the at least one button controlling the fan assembly is repeatedly engageable to select at least one speed setting of the fan assembly.

57. The hair care appliance of claim 47, wherein the at least one button controlling the heater assembly is repeatedly engageable to select at least one temperature setting of the heater assembly.