WO2025146643A1

WO2025146643A1 - A hair care apparatus

Info

Publication number: WO2025146643A1
Application number: PCT/IB2025/050033
Authority: WO
Inventors: Rumyana DANCHEVA; Cameron FALCONER-CUNNINGHAM
Original assignee: Dyson Technology Ltd
Current assignee: Dyson Technology Ltd
Priority date: 2024-01-04
Filing date: 2025-01-02
Publication date: 2025-07-10
Anticipated expiration: 2026-07-04
Also published as: GB2637019A; GB202400117D0

Abstract

A hair care apparatus 10 comprising a body 11 comprising an inlet 23 for receiving an airflow and an outlet (e.g. primary outlet) through which at least part of the airflow is discharged from the body 11. The hair care apparatus also includes a plurality of comb teeth 12 projecting from a front of the body and a plurality of ridges 16, 17 projecting from a first side of the body 11 and/or a rear of the body 11. The teeth 12 and ridges 16, 17 are each spaced along a length of the body 11, and each of the ridges 16, 17 extends around at least part of the body 11.

Description

A HAIR CARE APPARATUS

BACKGROUND

Combs are a known tool for styling hair. Typically, a comb includes comb teeth that can penetrate into a user’s hair (e.g. a tress of hair) and can be moved through the hair to style (e.g. detangle) the hair.

Combs are sometimes used with hair care devices (such as a hair dryers). In some cases, combs can be provided, for example, as part of an attachment for a hair care device, or as part of the hair care device itself.

SUMMARY

In a first aspect there is provided a hair care apparatus comprising: a body comprising an inlet for receiving an airflow and an outlet (e.g. primary outlet) through which at least part of the airflow is discharged from the body; a plurality of comb teeth projecting from a front of the body; and a plurality of ridges projecting from a first side of the body and/or a rear of the body, wherein the teeth and ridges are each spaced along a length of the body, and each of the ridges extends around at least part of the body.

The ridges can prevent, or at least reduce the possibility of, the user (for example, the scalp or fingers of a user) coming into contact with the first side and/or the rear of the body. This may be desirable, for example, when the body is heated (e.g. by a heated air flow). The spacing of the ridges allows for hair to be received therebetween such that in arrangements where the body is heated the hair can be in contact with the body for improved heat transfer to the hair.

For the avoidance of any doubt, the terms “front”, “rear” and “side” are not intended to limit the hair apparatus to any particular orientation in use.

In a second aspect, there is provided a hair care apparatus comprising: a body comprising an inlet for receiving an airflow, and a primary outlet through which at least part of the airflow is discharged from the body; a plurality of comb teeth projecting from a front of the body; and a plurality of bristles projecting laterally from a first side of the body; wherein the primary outlet is arranged to discharge air through the front of the body. Such bristles can, in some cases, increase the amount of tension that can be applied to a user’s hair in use and/or can ensure that sufficient tension is applied to a user’s hair throughout the entirety of a combing motion. As comb teeth are pulled through a user’s hair (e.g. along a tress of hair) the comb teeth can pull the hair (at least partly due to friction) so as to apply tension to the hair. It can be desirable to apply such tension for the purposes of styling. As an example, heating hair while in a tensioned state may aid in straightening the hair.

The inclusion of bristles as part of the hair care apparatus of the second aspect means that the apparatus can be oriented in use such that hair passes through both the comb teeth and the projections (i.e. by extending from the comb teeth around the side surface of the body). This increases the tension that can be applied to the hair (i.e. increases the pulling force that can be applied by the apparatus to the hair).

Accordingly, a user can alter the amount of tension applied to their hair in use by controlling the orientation of the apparatus, which alters whether the hair engages (or the amount of engagement of the hair) with the projections.

Further, in practice, as a user moves a comb along a tress of hair (especially if the tress of hair is the user’s own hair) the user may naturally tilt the comb. That is, a user may (e.g. due to ergonomics) orient the comb teeth so as to be more perpendicular to a tress of hair closer to the scalp, and so as to be more tilted (away from perpendicular) at the tip of a tress of hair. One result of this is that less tension may be applied by the comb teeth at the tip of a tress of hair (at the end of a combing motion). The provision of the bristles can counteract the reduced tension provided by the comb teeth by engaging the hair when the apparatus is tilted to provide additional tension.

The first aspect may include one or more features of the second aspect. Likewise, the second aspect may include one or more features of the first aspect.

Thus, for example, the apparatus of the first aspect may include a plurality of bristles projecting laterally from a first side of the body. Further, the primary outlet of the apparatus of the first aspect may be arranged to discharge air through the front of the body. Similarly, the apparatus of the second aspect may include a plurality of ridges projecting from a first side of the body and/or a rear of the body. The teeth and ridges of the apparatus of the second aspect may each spaced along a length of the body, and each of the ridges may extend around at least part of the body.

Optional features of the first and second aspects will now be set out. These are applicable singly or in any combination with any aspect.

The body may be generally elongate. The length of the body may be in a direction that is generally parallel to the direction of elongation of the body. Each ridge may extend in a plane that is substantially perpendicular to the length of the body. The body may be generally cylindrical. In this respect, the direction around the body (as referred to both above and below) may be a circumferential direction.

The body may comprise a second side, which may be on an opposite side of the body to the first side. The rear of the body may extend between the first and second sides of the body. The rear of the body may be on an opposite side of the body to the front of the body (and thus may be on an opposite side of the body to the comb teeth).

Each ridge may be aligned with a respective comb tooth in a direction around the body. Thus, each ridge may be aligned with a respective comb tooth in a plane that is substantially perpendicular to the length of the body.

Recesses may be defined by neighbouring ridges of the plurality of ridges (within which hair may be received in use). Each recess may be aligned in a direction around the body with a respective space between two neighbouring comb teeth (e.g. each recess may be aligned with a respective space on a plane that is substantially perpendicular to the length of the body). Accordingly, in use hair may be guided through the comb teeth and around the body between the ridges (so as to be received against the body e.g. for heating).

At least one ridge of the plurality of ridges (e.g. each ridge) may be integral with a respective comb tooth of the plurality of comb teeth. In this respect, the at least one ridge may extend from the respective comb tooth. This may simplify construction of the hair care apparatus. The plurality of ridges may comprise first lateral ridges projecting from the first side of the body and second lateral ridges projecting from the second side of the body. The first lateral ridges may project in an opposite direction to the second lateral ridges. Thus, regardless of the direction of use of the hair care apparatus along a tress of hair, hair may be received between at least one set of lateral ridges.

The plurality of ridges may comprise rearward ridges projecting from the rear of the body. Accordingly, in some embodiments, ridges may be provided on each of the first and second sides and on the rear side of the body. This may prevent the user from coming into contact with the body (which may otherwise cause discomfort if the body is heated), while still allowing hair to come into direct contact with the body (e.g. for heating).

The plurality of ridges may be spaced along the length of the body such that the spacing between neighbouring ridges may be equal to or less than 8 mm or e.g. equal to or less than 5 mm.

Each ridge may have a height in the range of from 5 mm to 15 mm, or e.g. in the range of from 7 mm to 10 mm.

Each ridge may taper in a direction from a base of the ridge (e.g. where the ridge connects to the body) to a tip of the ridge (e.g. distal from the body). This may aid in guiding hair towards the body of the apparatus.

The hair care apparatus may comprise more than five ridges (or e.g. more than ten ridges, or e.g. more than fifteen ridges) spaced along the length of the body.

When the apparatus includes bristles, at least one of the bristles (e.g. each bristle) may be aligned with a respective ridge in a direction around the body (e.g. the bristle and respective ridge may be aligned in plane that is substantially perpendicular to the length of the body).

In some embodiments, at least one of the bristles (e.g. each bristle) may be aligned in a direction around the body with a respective recess defined between neighbouring ridges (e.g. the at least one bristle and respective recess may be aligned in a plane that is substantially perpendicular to the length of the body). Arranging bristles in this manner (i.e. so as to be misaligned with the ridges), can provide a more tortuous path for hair passing between the ridges and the bristles), which can increase the tension applied to the hair in use of the apparatus.

At least one (e.g. each) bristle may be aligned with a respective comb tooth in a direction around the body (e.g. the bristle and respective comb tooth may be aligned on a plane that is substantially perpendicular to the length of the body).

At least one (e.g. each) bristle may be misaligned with the comb teeth in a direction around the body. Accordingly, the at least one bristle may not be aligned with any comb tooth in the circumferential direction. This may increase the tension applied by the bristle to hair (by forcing the hair to extend along a tortuous path).

The plurality of bristles may comprise one or more rows of bristles spaced apart along a length of the body. The one or more rows of bristles may be interposed between (in a direction around the body) the rearward ridges and the first lateral ridges or second lateral ridges.

At least one of the bristles of the plurality of bristles may have a height that is the same as or less than a height of at least one ridge of the plurality of ridges. Limiting the height of the bristles so as not to extend beyond the ridges can help to avoid tangling of hair that might otherwise occur if the bristles were to extend beyond the ridges.

At least one of the bristles (e.g. each bristle) may have a height in the range of from 5 mm to 15 mm, or e.g. in the range of from 7 mm to 10 mm (the bristle height being taken in a direction of extension of the bristle from the body).

At least one of the bristles may be shorter than at least one of the comb teeth. Each bristle may be shorter than each comb tooth. That is, each bristle may project from the body to a lesser extent than each comb tooth.

At least one of the bristles may be more flexible than at least one comb tooth. Each bristle may be more flexible than each comb tooth. At least one (e.g. each) bristle may have a substantially circular cross-sectional shape (taken perpendicular to the direction of extension of the bristle). At least one (e.g. each) bristle may have an elliptical or obround cross-sectional shape.

At least one of the bristles (e.g. each bristle) may have a width (taken at the widest part of the bristle) in the range of from 0.5 mm to 4 mm, or e.g. from 1 mm to 2 mm. As may be appreciated, when a bristle has a circular cross-sectional shape, the width of the bristle may be the diameter of the bristle.

Each bristle may have a proximal end proximate to the body and an opposite distal (e.g. free) end. At least one of the bristles may taper in a direction from the proximal end to the distal end.

At least one of the bristles (e.g. each bristle) may comprise an aperture extending therethrough. The aperture may be provided proximate to the distal end of the bristle. In this respect, the at least one bristle may comprise a looped distal end, which may increase the flexibility of the bristle. The aperture may extend through the at least one bristle in a direction that is parallel to the length direction of the body.

The bristles may project laterally from the first and second sides of the body (i.e. a first set of bristles may projection from the first side and a second set of bristles may project from the second side). In this way, regardless of the direction of the use of the comb along a tress of hair, at least one set of bristles may engage the hair.

At least one of the bristles (e.g. each bristle) may be spaced around the body from a frontmost part of the body by a distance that subtends an angle (taken from a central axis of the body) that is in the range of from 60 to 120 degrees, or e.g. from 70 to 90 degrees. In other words, a first reference line may extend from the central axis of the body to a frontmost part of the body and a second reference line may extend from the central axis to the at least one bristle, and an angle between the first and second reference lines may be in the range of from 60 to 120 degrees, or e.g. from 70 to 90 degrees.

The bristles may extend laterally from the body. At least one of the bristles (e.g. each bristle) may extend from the body at an angle that is in the range of from 60 to 120 degrees (or e.g. from 70 to 90 degrees) relative to the direction of projection of the comb teeth from the body. At least one of the comb teeth (e.g. each comb tooth) may have a length that is in the range of from 30 to 100 mm, or e.g. from 40 to 80 mm, or e.g. from 55 to 65 mm. The length of each comb tooth may be taken in a direction of extension of the comb tooth from the body.

Each comb tooth may have a proximal end that is proximate to the body and a distal end that is distal from the body. The distal end of at least one of the comb teeth may be a free end. At least one of the comb teeth (e.g. each comb tooth) may taper from the proximal end to the distal end of the comb tooth. At least one of the comb teeth may have a substantially triangular shape (e.g. in a plane taken perpendicular to the length of the body).

Each comb tooth may have opposite edges. These may represent leading and trailing edges of the tooth in use (with respect to the direction of movement of the teeth through a user’s hair). As may be appreciated, each edge of a comb tooth may be either a leading or trailing edge depending on the direction of use of the hair care apparatus along a tress of hair.

The comb teeth may be arranged in a row. The comb teeth may have a spacing distance (i.e. defined as the distance between neighbouring comb teeth) that is in the range of from 0.5 mm to 4 mm, or e.g. from 1 mm to 2 mm.

At least one of the comb teeth (e.g. each comb tooth) may have a width that is in the range of from 20 mm to 60 mm, or e.g. from 30 mm to 50 mm (taken at the widest part of the comb tooth). The width of each comb tooth may be taken at the widest part of the comb tooth. The width may be taken in a direction that is perpendicular to both the length of the tooth and the length direction of the body. In other words, the width may be taken between the opposite (e.g. leading/trailing) edges of the tooth.

At least one of the comb teeth (e.g. each comb tooth) may have a thickness in the range of from 0.5 mm to 3 mm, e.g. from 1 mm to 2 mm. The thickness of each comb tooth may be taken a direction between opposite major faces of the comb tooth (which may be generally parallel to the length of the body).

The hair care apparatus may comprise in the range of from 10 to 25 comb teeth, e.g. in the range of from 12 to 20 comb teeth. The primary outlet may be arranged (e.g. oriented or otherwise configured) to discharge air onto a tress of hair engaged by the comb teeth. The primary outlet may be arranged to discharge air onto a portion of the tress of hair that is to one side of the comb teeth. The primary outlet may be as otherwise described below with respect to the third aspect.

The primary outlet may extend in a direction along the length of the body. For example, the primary outlet may comprise a slot extending along the length of the body, or a row of apertures spaced along the length of the body.

The hair care apparatus may comprise a secondary outlet arranged to discharge air through the first side of the body. The secondary outlet may therefore be arranged to discharge air onto hair that is wrapped around the first side of the body in use. The secondary outlet may be arranged to discharge air laterally from the body. The secondary outlet may be as otherwise described below with respect to the third aspect.

The body may be configurable between first and second positions. In the first position, the primary outlet may be closed (e.g. so that substantially no air can flow through the primary outlet). In the second position, the primary outlet may be open (e.g. such that air can flow through the outlet).

The apparatus may be configured (e.g. the body may be configured) such that the secondary outlet is open in both the first and second positions. Alternatively, the apparatus (e.g. body) may be configured such that the secondary outlet is closed in the first position and open in the second position.

The apparatus (e.g. the body) may comprise an air flow passage (e.g. for flow of a heated air through the apparatus).

The hair care apparatus may comprise a mounting portion for releasably mounting the hair care apparatus to a hair care device. The hair care device may be of the type configured to supply a flow of heated air to the hair care apparatus. In this respect, the hair care apparatus may be in the form of an attachment for a hair care device. The mounting portion may comprise e.g. lugs or pips for engagement in corresponding recesses (e.g. locking slots) of a hair care device. As may be appreciated, the mounting portion may otherwise comprise threads, a snap engagement mechanism, bayonet mechanism, etc. In some embodiments, the hair care apparatus may comprise an airflow generator for supply of an airflow to the body, and a heater for heating the airflow upstream of the body. In other words, the hair care apparatus may form part of a hair care device.

The apparatuses of the first and second aspects may include one or more features of the apparatus of the third aspect described below. For example, the body of the first and/or second aspect may be as described below with respect to the third aspect (e.g. including the barrel, sleeve, openings and outlets of the third aspect).

In a third aspect there is provided a hair care apparatus comprising: a barrel defining an air flow passage, the barrel comprising one or more openings for flow of air from the air flow passage; a sleeve rotatably mounted to the barrel and comprising a primary outlet; and a plurality of comb teeth projecting from the sleeve; wherein the sleeve is rotatable relative to the barrel between: a first position in which the one or more openings are misaligned with the primary outlet to restrict air flow through the primary outlet; and a second position in which at least one of the one or more openings is aligned with the primary outlet to permit air flow through the primary outlet.

The ability of the sleeve to rotate to align and misalign the openings with the primary outlet means that air flow from the primary outlet can be controlled by rotating the sleeve. The projection of the comb teeth from the sleeve means that rotation of the sleeve (and thus air flow from the primary outlet) can be controlled by movement of the comb teeth. This can provide for convenient control of airflow in use of the hair care apparatus. Such air flow can aid in styling hair. For example, heated air can impart energy allowing the hair to more readily change shape (facilitating styling of the hair).

In use, when the comb teeth are moved through a user’s hair (to style the hair), the comb teeth will be urged in a direction that is opposite to the direction of movement of the apparatus (for example, due to friction between the comb teeth and the hair). In the arrangement of the second aspect, this “pulling” of the comb teeth causes the teeth to move so as to rotate the sleeve. In this way, air flow from the outlet may be controlled by movement of the comb teeth through a user’s hair. This may avoid the need for a user to manually open and close the primary outlet to control the discharge of air flow from the apparatus.

The provision of a sleeve that is rotatable about a barrel to achieve the above control provides a robust assembly, at least partly because the sleeve can be supported by the barrel along at least part of the length of the sleeve. Likewise rotating the sleeve as a whole (as opposed to e.g. pivoting the comb teeth relative to a body) avoids or at least reduces “pinch points” where hair, hair product, or e.g. a user’s fingers may be caught between two moving parts.

Optional features of the third aspect will now be set out. These are applicable singly or in any combination with any aspect.

In the first position the primary outlet may be fully open (e.g. fully unobstructed). In the second position the primary outlet may be fully closed (e.g. may be fully obstructed).

The primary outlet may be arranged (i.e. when open) to discharge air into a first region on a first side of the comb teeth (or e.g. at least to a first side of the centreline of the comb teeth).

As may be appreciated in use, when comb teeth are moved along a tress of hair, the hair on one side of the comb teeth (i.e. between the comb teeth and the user’s scalp) will be placed under tension, while the hair on the other side of the comb teeth (between the comb teeth and the hair tips) will not be placed under tension.

The primary outlet may be arranged to discharge air onto a portion of a tress of hair that is placed under tension by receipt of the tress between the comb teeth (and e.g. by movement of the comb teeth along the tress of hair). That is, the first region may be a region in which tensioned hair is disposed in use. The primary outlet may be arranged to discharge air in a direction that is at an angle to the direction of the projection of the teeth (e.g. may be at an angle to a forward direction) that is in the range of from 5 degrees to 60 to degrees, or e.g. from 10 degrees to 50 degrees.

By targeting a region to the side of the comb teeth (rather than solely discharging air between the comb teeth), the discharged air may be less likely to push hair away from (and out of engagement between) the comb teeth.

The comb teeth may be arranged such that movement of comb teeth towards the first region (i.e. on the first side of the comb teeth) causes the sleeve to rotate towards the second position. In other words, movement of the comb teeth towards the first region (which may be caused by moving the comb teeth along a tress of hair) may cause the primary outlet to be aligned with at least one of the one or more openings (i.e. so as to open the primary outlet).

In such embodiments, because the comb teeth will tend to be pulled towards the tensioned portion of hair in use, air flow discharged from the primary outlet will be discharged onto hair that is placed under tension by the comb teeth.

The sleeve may be rotatable about a central axis of the sleeve and/or the barrel (the central axis may extend parallel to a length of the barrel and/or sleeve). The sleeve may be rotatable about an angle e.g. in the range of from 5 degrees to 15 degrees (or e.g. from 6 degrees to 9 degrees) between the first and second positions.

The primary outlet may be a first primary outlet and the sleeve may comprise a second primary outlet. The second primary outlet may be spaced from the first primary outlet in a direction around the barrel (e.g. which may be a circumferential direction). The first and second primary outlets may be positioned either side of the comb teeth. Thus, the comb teeth may be (at least partly) interposed between the first and second primary outlets.

In the first position, at least one opening of the one or more openings may be aligned with the second primary outlet to permit air flow through the second primary outlet. In the second position the one or more openings may be misaligned with the second primary outlet to restrict air flow through the second primary outlet. In the first position the second primary outlet may be fully open (e.g. fully unobstructed). In the second position the second outlet may be fully closed (e.g. fully obstructed).

Accordingly, in the first position the second primary outlet may be open and the first primary outlet may be closed, and in the second position the first primary outlet may be open and the second primary outlet may be closed. That is, the apparatus may be configured such that in the first position air is discharged from the second outlet and in the second position air is discharged from the first outlet.

The second primary outlet may be arranged to discharge air into a second region on a second side of the plurality of comb teeth (or e.g. at least on a second side of the centreline of the comb teeth). The first and second sides of the plurality of comb teeth may be opposite to one another. Thus, the first and second regions may be on opposite sides of the plurality of comb teeth (i.e. the plurality of comb teeth may be interposed between the first and second regions).

The apparatus (e.g. the sleeve and comb teeth) may be configured such that movement of the comb teeth towards the second region (e.g. on the second side of the comb teeth) causes the sleeve to rotate towards the first position. In other words, movement of the comb teeth towards the second region (which may be caused by moving the comb teeth along a tress of hair) may cause the second outlet to open (and e.g. the first outlet to close).

In this way, when the comb teeth are moved in a first direction, the first primary outlet may be opened for discharge of air onto the tensioned hair, and when the comb teeth are moved in a second direction the second primary outlet may be opened for discharge of air onto the tensioned hair. Thus, in such embodiments, regardless of which direction the comb teeth are moved along a tress of hair, the comb teeth rotate in a direction that opens a respective primary outlet (i.e. the first or second primary outlet) that directs air onto hair that is under tension (by the comb teeth). Targeting the tensioned hair can improve hair drying time and the effectiveness of styling.

Likewise, in such embodiments, the respective primary outlet on the non-tensioned side of a tress of hair may be closed so as not to disrupt styling of the hair (or may not act to push hair away from the comb teeth). That is, when the comb teeth are moved towards the first region (e.g. such that the first primary outlet is opened), the second primary outlet may be misaligned with the one or more openings so as not to discharge air onto non-tensioned hair. Likewise, the first primary outlet may be misaligned with the one or more openings when the comb teeth are moved towards the second region such that air is, again, not directed onto non-tensioned hair.

The comb teeth may project from a front of the sleeve. The front of the sleeve may extend between opposite first and second laterally facing sides of the sleeve.

The first primary outlet may be located on the front of the sleeve. The second primary outlet may be located on the front of the sleeve. The comb teeth may extend in a generally forward direction from the front of the sleeve.

In some embodiments, the comb teeth may be arranged in a row. The row of comb teeth may extend along a length of the sleeve.

The sleeve may further comprise a first secondary outlet. In general, the first secondary outlet may be configured to discharge air, in use, onto hair extending across the first side of the sleeve. The first secondary outlet may be arranged to discharge air from the first side of the sleeve. The first secondary outlet may be arranged on the first side of the sleeve.

Such an arrangement may allow air to be directed onto a tress of hair that wraps around the sleeve. This can occur when the hair care apparatus is rotated, for example, as it is moved along a tress of hair. Such rotation can naturally occur due to the ergonomics of moving a hair care apparatus along a tress of hair. The rotation (and thus the wrapping of hair) may particularly occur when the comb teeth are near to the free end (i.e. tip) of a tress of hair in use.

The first secondary outlet may be arranged to discharge air in a lateral direction (e.g. away from the first side of the sleeve). The first secondary outlet may be arranged to discharge air in a direction that forms an angle with the forward direction in the range of from 60 degrees to 140 degrees, or e.g. from 70 degrees to 110 degrees.

The first secondary outlet may be spaced from the first primary outlet in a direction around the sleeve (e.g. in a circumferential direction). The first secondary outlet may be spaced further than the first primary outlet from the comb teeth (the first primary outlet may be interposed between the comb teeth and the first secondary outlet).

The sleeve may further comprise a second secondary outlet. In general, the second secondary outlet may be configured to discharge air, in use, onto hair extending across the second side of the sleeve. The second secondary outlet may be arranged to discharge air from the second side of the sleeve. The second secondary outlet may be arranged on the second side of the sleeve. Thus, the first and second secondary outlets may be provided on opposite sides of the sleeve (and may face in opposite directions).

In some embodiments, the first and/or second secondary outlet may be open in both the first and second positions of the sleeve. Thus, in both the first and second positions at least one of the first and second secondary outlets may align with at least one of the one or more openings.

In other embodiments, the first and/or second secondary outlet may open/close concurrently with the respective first and/or second primary outlet. Accordingly, in the first position, the first secondary outlet may be closed and the second secondary outlet may be open (e.g. by alignment and misalignment with openings of the barrel). In the second position, the first secondary outlet may be open and the second secondary outlet may be closed (e.g. by alignment and misalignment with openings of the barrel).

Any one or more of the outlets described above may comprise one or more apertures formed in the sleeve. The one or more apertures may comprise one or more slots. The one or more apertures may e.g. be spaced in a row or may be in the form of a slot, either of which may extend substantially along a length of the sleeve.

The sleeve may comprise a plurality of lateral projections. The lateral projections may project laterally from the first and/or second sides of the sleeve.

The plurality of lateral projections may comprise ridges spaced apart from one another along a length of the sleeve. Each ridge may extend in a direction around the sleeve (e.g. may extend circumferentially). The ridges may define recesses therebetween for receipt of hair. The plurality of lateral projections may comprise bristles. At least one bristle may be adjacent to (or e.g. proximate to) the first and/or second secondary outlet. A plurality of bristles (e.g. one or more rows of bristles) may be adjacent to the first and/or second secondary outlet. The first and/or second secondary outlet may be arranged to discharge air between the bristles. In this way, air may be discharged onto hair retained between the bristles.

The lateral projections, bristles and/or ridges may be as otherwise described above with respect to the first aspect.

The comb teeth may be integrally formed with the sleeve. The comb teeth may extend radially from the body (e.g. from the sleeve). The comb teeth may be as otherwise described above with respect to the first aspect.

The sleeve may extend substantially fully circumferentially around the barrel. The sleeve may be sleeved on the barrel. The sleeve may comprise an internal (e.g. elongate) cavity into which the barrel is received. The cavity may be substantially cylindrical.

The sleeve may be generally elongate (i.e. in the length direction of the sleeve). The sleeve may have a substantially circular cross-sectional outer shape (e.g. taken perpendicular to a length direction of the sleeve). The sleeve may be substantially tubular (e.g. may have an annular cross-sectional shape).

The barrel may be substantially tubular (e.g. may have an annular cross-sectional shape). The barrel may comprise a proximal end and an opposite distal end.

The apparatus may comprise a mounting portion configured for (e.g. releasable) mounting the hair care apparatus to a hair care device of the type configured to supply an air flow from an outlet of the device. The mounting portion may be configured such that the air flow passage is arranged to receive the air flow from the outlet of the hair care device. The mounting portion may, for example, be a bayonet fitting, screw fitting, snap-engagement fitting, etc. The mounting portion may be provided at the proximal end of the barrel.

The barrel may comprise an inlet. The inlet may be for air flow into the air flow passage.

The inlet may be provided at the proximal end of the barrel. The proximal end of the barrel may comprise a shoulder for abutting a first axial end of the sleeve (e.g. while permitting rotation of the sleeve). A retainer may be mounted (e.g. releasably mounted) to the distal end of the barrel for abutment against a second axial end of the sleeve. In this way, the sleeve may be retained against axial movement by receipt between the shoulder and the retainer.

Accordingly, the barrel and sleeve may be assembled by insertion of the barrel into the cavity of the sleeve and subsequent fastening of the barrel to the sleeve by the retainer (with the sleeve being retained axially between the retainer and the abutment surface).

The apparatus may comprise a biasing mechanism configured to bias the sleeve into the first and/or second position. The biasing mechanism may be configured to urge the sleeve away from an intermediate position (between the first and second position) and towards the first or second position. In this respect, the biasing means may be configured such that the sleeve rests either in the first or second position (i.e. is unable to rest in the intermediate position).

The biasing mechanism may be configured to retain the sleeve in the first or second position (e.g. until sufficient force is applied to the teeth in use to move the sleeve from the first or second position).

The biasing mechanism may comprise a spring. The biasing mechanism may comprise e.g. a ball plunger receivable in a recess (such as a groove or track). The ball plunger may be mounted to one of the barrel and the sleeve and the recess may be formed in the other of the barrel and the sleeve.

The recess, when in the form of a track, may comprise two pockets within which the ball of the plunger is received in the first and second positions. A bump feature may be provided between the pockets, over which the ball passes as it travels between the pockets (i.e. as the sleeve is moved between the first and second positions). In this way, the ball is prevented from stopping between the pockets (i.e. is urged towards one of the pockets). In a fourth aspect, there is provided a hair care system comprising: a hair care device comprising an air flow generator to generate an air flow; and a hair care apparatus according to the first, second or third aspects arranged for receipt of the air flow generated by the air flow generator.

The air flow generator may be e.g. a compressor, fan or blower.

The device may comprise a heater for heating the air flow generated by the air flow generator (i.e. upstream of the hair care apparatus).

The hair care apparatus may be releasably mountable to the hair care device (e.g. may be in the form of a hair care attachment). Alternatively, the hair care apparatus may be fixed to the device in a permanent manner (i.e. may be a permanent component of the hair care device).

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Figure 1 A is a perspective view of a hair care apparatus;

Figure IB is a perspective section view of the hair care apparatus of Figure 1 A;

Figure 1C is a detailed view of a track of the hair care apparatus of Figure 1 A;

Figures ID and IE are section views of the hair care apparatus of Figure 1A respectively in first and second positions;

Figure 2A is a perspective view of a variation of the hair care apparatus of Figure 1 A;

Figures 2B and 2C are section views of the hair care apparatus of Figure 2A respectively in first and second positions; and

Figure 3 is a side view of a hair care device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Figures 1A, IB, 1C, ID and IE illustrate a hair care apparatus 10 for styling hair, which includes a body 11 and a plurality of teeth 12 that project from a front of the body 11. As is most apparent from Figure IB, the body 11 is formed of a tubular (and thus hollow) barrel 20 and a tubular sleeve 21 that is sleeved onto an outer circumferential surface 22 of the barrel 20. The comb teeth 12 are integral with, and project from, the front of the sleeve 21. Both the sleeve 21 and the barrel 20 are elongate in a length direction. The comb teeth 12 are arranged in a row and are spaced (evenly) along a length of the sleeve 21 (and thus along a length of the body 11). Each comb tooth 12 is rigid and has a substantially triangular shape, and thus tapers from a proximal end 13 of the tooth 12 (close to the body 11) to a distal end 14 of the tooth 12 (distal from the body 11). At the proximal end 13, each comb tooth 12 is wider than the body 11.

Each comb tooth 12 has a flat shape and has opposing major (planar) faces 15 that are substantially perpendicular to the length of the body 11. A thickness of each tooth 12 (i.e. taken between the major faces 15) is significantly smaller than the width (taken perpendicular to the length of the body 11) and the length of the tooth 12. In general terms, the comb teeth 12 provide a wide tooth comb which can be useful, for example, for styling and detangling hair.

The apparatus 10 also includes a plurality of ridges in the form of lateral ridges 16 and rearward ridges 17, which are integrally formed with the sleeve 21. The lateral ridges 16 are provided on first 18 and second 19 opposite sides of the sleeve 21 (see Figures 1C and ID). As is apparent from the figures, the lateral ridges 16 are each integral with a respective comb tooth 12. In particular, each lateral ridge 16 extends from the proximal end 13 of the comb tooth 12 and partway around the side of the body 11.

Each rearward ridge 17 is elongate in a direction around the sleeve 21 and projects from a rear side of the sleeve 21 (opposite the comb teeth 12). Each rearward ridge 17 is also aligned with a respective comb tooth 12 in a direction around the sleeve 21 (i.e. the circumferential direction). The rearward ridges 17 are spaced around the sleeve 21 from the lateral ridges 16 projecting from the first 18 and second 19 sides of the sleeve 21 so as to form two gaps on opposite sides of the sleeve 21 (i.e. in which no ridges are present).

The apparatus 10 includes a plurality of bristles 25, which are interposed between the rearward 17 and lateral ridges 16, so as to be within the two gaps. In particular, the bristles 25 are arranged in rows of spaced apart bristles 25 (which are staggered relative to one another) extending along the length of the sleeve 21. Five rows of bristles 25 are provided on each of the opposite first 18 and second 19 sides of the sleeve 21.

The bristles 25 on each side 18, 19 of the sleeve are integrally formed with a base 56 (so that the bristles 25 and respective base 56 on each side 18, 19 form a unitary piece). Each bristle 25 projects laterally from the sleeve 21. On each side 18, 19 of the sleeve 21, the bristles 25 in three of the rows of bristles 25 are aligned (in a direction around the sleeve 21) with both the comb teeth 12 and the ridges 16, 17. The remaining two rows of bristles 25 on each side 18, 19 of the sleeve 21 are misaligned with the ridges 16, 17 and comb teeth 12.

As is best shown by Figure IB, the barrel 20 includes an inlet 23, which is at a proximal end 24 of the barrel 20. The proximal end 24 of the barrel includes a mounting portion 62 having a plurality of pips 47 spaced around the inlet 23. The pips 47 allow the apparatus 10 to be releasably mounted to the outlet 72 of a hair care device 70, such as that shown in Figure 3. The hair care device 70 is configured to supply a flow of heated air through the outlet 72, such that when the apparatus 10 is mounted thereto, heated air flows from the outlet 72 and into the inlet 23 of the barrel 20.

Returning to Figures 1A to IE, the barrel 20 also defines an internal air flow passage 26 that extends into the barrel 20 from the inlet 23, and which extends for substantially the entire length of the barrel 20. A plurality of primary openings 27, 28, 53, 61 and secondary openings 29, 30 are formed in the barrel 20. The primary openings 27, 28, 53, 61 comprise first primary openings 27, second primary openings 28, third primary openings 53, and fourth primary openings 61 that are spaced from one another in a direction around the barrel 20.

The secondary openings 29, 30 comprise a row of first secondary openings 29 on one side of the barrel 20 and a row of second secondary openings 30 on an opposite side of the barrel 20. Each row of secondary openings 29, 30 extends in the length direction of the barrel 20 and is formed of a plurality of evenly spaced circular openings 29, 30. As will be explained further below, each of the primary 27, 28, 53, 61 and secondary 29, 30 openings is arranged to allow air to flow from the air flow passage 26 of the barrel 20 (such that air is ultimately discharged from the apparatus 10).

As is most apparent from Figures ID and IE, the sleeve 21 includes first primary outlets 31, second primary outlets 32, third primary outlets 54, and fourth primary outlets 55 (each comprising a row of spaced apart apertures formed in the sleeve 21). In particular, the outlets 31, 32, 54, 55 are located on a front of the sleeve 21, in the spaces formed between the comb teeth 12. The first 31 and third 54 primary outlets are arranged to discharge two air flows 43 (from the passage 26 of the barrel) into a first region 33 to one side of the comb teeth 12 (i.e. by discharging air in a direction that is at an angle to the direction in which the comb teeth 12 project). The second 32 and fourth 55 primary outlets are arranged to discharge two air flows 36 into a second region 34 that is on an opposite side of the comb teeth 12 to the first region 33 (again, the second 32 and fourth 55 primary outlets discharge air in a direction that is at an angle to the direction in which the comb teeth 12 project).

The sleeve 21 also includes first 41 and second 42 secondary outlets, which are provided respectively on the first 18 and second 19 sides of the sleeve 21. In particular, each of the secondary outlets 41, 42 is provided so as to be adjacent to the bristles 25 provided on the respective side 18, 19 of the sleeve 21. The secondary outlets 41, 42 are arranged so as to discharge air in a lateral direction from the apparatus 10 (for example, onto hair that is engaged by the bristles 25 in use).

The sleeve 21 is rotatably mounted to the barrel 20 so as to be rotatable about a rotational axis 40 that extends centrally in a length direction of the sleeve 21 and the barrel 20. This mounting is provided partly by a retainer 37 in the form of a cap that is mounted to a distal end 38 of the barrel 20 (in the illustrated embodiment, by way of a threaded connection). The retainer 37 includes a radially extending flange 39, that extends over the (rotatable) joint between the sleeve 21 and barrel 20, and which abuts against the sleeve 21 to restrict axial movement of the sleeve 21 (i.e. along the rotational axis 40) relative to the barrel 20.

Axial movement of the sleeve 21 is also restricted (in the opposite direction) by abutment of projections 57 the sleeve 21 against a shoulder 46 at the proximal end 24 of the barrel 20. In this way, the sleeve 21 is retained (i.e. sandwiched) between the shoulder 46 and the retainer 37 so as to be restricted against axial movement, but able to rotate.

In use, when the comb teeth 12 are moved through a user’s hair (for example along a tress of hair), the comb teeth 12 are pulled by friction in a direction opposite to the direction of movement. As the comb teeth 12 extend from the sleeve 21, this movement of the comb teeth 12 causes the sleeve 21 to rotate around the barrel 20 about the rotational axis 40. This rotation aligns and misaligns the primary 27, 28, 53, 61 and secondary 29, 30 openings with the primary 31, 32, 54, 55 and secondary 41, 42 outlets so as to provide different air flow configurations depending on the position of the sleeve 21. A first position of the sleeve 21 is shown in Figure ID. In this position, the first primary outlets 31 are misaligned with the first primary openings 27. Likewise, the third primary outlets 54 are misaligned with the third primary openings 53. As a result, the first 31 and third 54 primary outlets are obstructed (by the barrel 20) and air is not able to flow through the first 31 or third 54 primary outlets (i.e. they are closed). Similarly, the first secondary outlets 41 are misaligned with the first secondary openings 29, such that the first secondary outlets 41 are obstructed (i.e. closed). Accordingly, air cannot flow from the passage 26 through either the first primary 31, third primary 54, or first secondary 41 outlets.

On the other hand, the second primary outlets 32 are aligned with the second primary openings 28 in the barrel 20, the fourth primary outlets 55 are aligned with the fourth primary openings 61, and the second secondary outlets 42 are aligned with the second secondary openings 30. Accordingly, the second primary outlets 32, fourth primary outlets 55, and second secondary outlets 42 are unobstructed and open to allow air to flow through these outlets 32, 42, 55 from the air flow passage 26.

In this way, two air flows 36 are discharged from the second primary outlets 32 and fourth primary outlets 55 into the second region 34 to one side of the comb teeth 12. As may be appreciated, this second region 34 is on a side of the comb teeth 12 towards which the comb teeth 12 are moved into the first position (e.g. by way of friction with hair through which the comb teeth 12 are moved).

As may also be appreciated, when the comb teeth 12 are moved along a tress of hair, the hair on one side of the comb teeth 12 will be under tension (i.e. because the comb teeth 12 will pull the hair in a direction away from the scalp), and the hair on the opposite side of the comb teeth 12 will not be under tension. The hair placed under tension by the comb teeth 12 will extend through the second region 34 into which air is discharged from the second 32 and fourth 55 primary outlets. Accordingly, air will be discharged from the second 32 and fourth 55 primary outlets onto the tensioned hair but will not be discharged onto the hair that is not placed under tension (because the first 31 and third 54 primary outlets are closed in the first position). In this way the air (which is heated) is targeted on the tensioned hair which aids in styling.

Likewise, because the second secondary outlets 42 are open, air flow 44 is discharged from these outlets 42 in a lateral direction from the apparatus 10 (on the second side of the sleeve 21). Accordingly, this air flow 44 discharged from the second secondary outlets 42 can target any hair that is wrapped (and tensioned) around the second side of the sleeve 21.

In use, the apparatus 10 may be rotated as it is moved along a tress of hair. This may occur naturally due to the ergonomics of such movement (or could be performed intentionally). The rotation can cause the hair that is under tension to extend around the side (in this case the second side 19) of the sleeve 21, in particular within recesses defined between the ridges 16, 17 and bristles 25. The contact between the hair and the sleeve 21 can allow transfer of heat from the sleeve 21 to the hair (to aid in styling the hair), which may be heated as a result of heated air flowing through the air passage 26. Further heat is applied to the hair by way of the air that is discharged from the second secondary outlets 42.

The ridges 16, 17 (and to some extent the bristles 25) prevent a user (such as a user’s fingers or scalp) from coming into contact with the heated surface of the sleeve 21. The bristles 25 aid in retaining the hair against the sleeve, and also help to increase the tension applied to the hair. This additional application of tension by the bristles 25 can counteract loss of tension that can occur upon rotation of the apparatus 10 (and thus the comb teeth 12), particularly towards the end of a movement along a tress of hair.

A second position of the sleeve 21 is shown in Figure IE. In general, this represents the reverse of the first position shown in Figure ID.

In this second position, the comb teeth 12 have moved towards the first region 33 to the side of the comb teeth 12. In use, such movement can be caused be movement of the comb teeth 12 along a tress of hair in a direction away from the first region 33 (i.e. the comb teeth 12 being pulled by the hair back towards the first region 33).

The first primary outlets 31 are aligned with the first primary openings 27 so as to be open and the third primary outlets 54 are aligned with the third primary openings 53 so as to be open. On the other hand, the second primary outlets 32 are misaligned with the second primary openings 28 so as to be closed, and the fourth primary outlets 55 are misaligned with the third primary openings 53 so as to be also closed.

Likewise, the first secondary outlets 41 are aligned with the first secondary openings 29 so as to be open, and the second secondary outlets 42 are misaligned with the second secondary openings 30 so as to be closed. This means two air flows 43 are discharged from the first primary outlets 31 and the third primary outlets 54 into the first region 33 to the side of the comb teeth 12, and a further air flow 45 is discharged in a lateral direction from the first side 18 of the sleeve 21 through the first secondary outlets 41. Again, this allows hair placed under tension to be targeted by the air flows 43, 45 (and ensures that hair not under tension is not disrupted by an air flow).

In this way, regardless of the direction of movement of the comb teeth 12 along a tress of hair, the tensioned hair is targeted (due to such movement causing rotation of the sleeve 21 to open and close the various openings).

The apparatus 10 further includes a biasing mechanism in the form of a ball plunger 50 (best seen in Figure IB) mounted at the distal end 38 of the barrel 20. The ball 59 of the ball plunger 50 is urged into a track 51 (by a compression spring) which is formed in an inner surface 52 of the sleeve 21 (the inner surface 52facing the barrel 20).

This track 51 is best shown in Figure 1C, which is a view of the inner surface 52 of the sleeve 21. The track 51 includes two pockets 58 in which the ball 59 of the ball plunger 50 seats when the sleeve 21 is in the first or second position. The track 51 also includes a bump feature 60 (i.e. a raised part of the surface 52) between the pockets 58. This means that when the sleeve 21 is between the first and second positions the ball 59 is positioned on the bump feature 60 (compressing the spring of the ball plunger 50), such that the ball 59 is urged towards one of the pockets 58, and such that the sleeve 21 is urged towards one of the first and second positions.

In other words, the track 51 is formed in a manner so as to cooperate with the ball plunger

50 to urge the sleeve 21 towards the first or second position (i.e. when in an intermediate position between the first and second positions). In this way, the ball plunger 50 and track

51 operate in the manner of a bistable mechanism (i.e. the two positions of stability being the first and second positions).

In a similar manner, the ball plunger 50 and track 51 cooperate to retain the sleeve 21 in the first or second position, by receipt of the ball 59 within the pockets 58, until sufficient force (such as that generated by moving the comb teeth 12 through hair) is able to move the sleeve 21 out of the first or second position. Figures 2A, 2B and 2C illustrate an apparatus 10’ that is a variation of the apparatus 10 described above. For brevity, only differences will be discussed below (i.e. the remaining features of the apparatus 10’ are the same as that already described in relation to the apparatus 10 above).

The main difference provided by apparatus 10’ is the way the opening and closing of outlets is provided.

The apparatus 10’ includes a body 11 and comb teeth 12 that are pivotably mounted to the body 11 by a pivotable mounting 48. The teeth 12 can be pivoted (e.g. by movement of the teeth 12 along a tress of hair as already described above) between a first position (shown in Figure 2B) and a second position (shown in Figure 2C).

A proximal end 13 of the teeth 12 is provided with a blocking element 49. The blocking element 49 extends mostly across an opening in the body 11 to an internal air flow passage 26 of the body 11, except that it leaves a gap at one side defining an outlet 31, 32. The position of the gap is dependent on whether the comb teeth 12 are in the first or second position.

In the first position, the gap defines a second primary outlet 32 of the apparatus 10’ arranged to discharge an air flow 36 that first extends towards a second region 34 on a side of the comb teeth 12 and then curves so as to be directed towards a first region 33 on an opposite side of the comb teeth 12. This curved path achieved by convex surfaces 63 formed between the teeth to which the air flow 36 attaches via the Coanda effect as it is discharged from the second primary outlet 32. This curved air flow 36 means that the air first passes across hair placed under tension and then flows generally along a tress of hair towards the end of the tress (e.g. in a downward direction in normal use).

In the second position, the gap defines a first primary outlet 31 arranged to discharge an air flow towards the first region 33 and then into the second region 34 (which is achieved in the same manner as discussed above for the first position).

Unlike the previously described apparatus 10, in the presently described apparatus 10, the first 41 and second 42 secondary outlets remain open regardless of the position of the comb teeth 12. Further, because in this apparatus 10’ the comb teeth 12 are moveable, the lateral ridges 16 are not integral with the comb teeth 12. The lateral ridges 16 are, however, still aligned with the comb teeth 12 in a direction around the body 11.

Claims

1. A hair care apparatus comprising: a body comprising an inlet for receiving an airflow and an outlet through which at least part of the airflow is discharged from the body; a plurality of comb teeth projecting from a front of the body; and a plurality of ridges projecting from a first side of the body and/or a rear of the body; wherein the teeth and ridges are each spaced along a length of the body, and each of the ridges extends around at least part of the body.

2. The hair care apparatus according to claim 1, wherein each ridge is aligned with a respective comb tooth in a plane that is perpendicular to the length of the body.

3. The hair care apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein at least one ridge of the plurality of ridges is integral with a respective comb tooth of the plurality of comb teeth.

4. The hair care apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the plurality of ridges comprises first lateral ridges projecting from the first side of the body and/or second lateral ridges projecting from a second side of the body that is opposite to the first side.

5. The hair care apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the plurality of ridges comprises rearward ridges projecting from the rear of the body.

6. The hair care apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the plurality of ridges are spaced along the length of the body such that the spacing between neighbouring ridges is equal to or less than 8 mm.

7. The hair care apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each ridge has a height in the range of from 5 mm to 15 mm.

8. The hair care apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising more than five ridges spaced along the length of the body.

9. The hair care apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a plurality of bristles projecting laterally from the first side of the body.

10. The hair care apparatus according to claim 9, wherein at least one bristle is aligned with at least one ridge in a plane that is perpendicular to the length of the body.

11. The hair care apparatus according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the body comprises a second side opposite to the first side, and wherein the bristles project laterally from each of the first and second sides.

12. The hair care apparatus according to any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein at least one bristle extends from the body at an angle in the range of from 80 to 120 degrees relative to the direction of projection of the comb teeth from the body.

13. The hair care apparatus according to any one of claims 9 to 12, wherein the plurality of bristles comprises a row of bristles spaced apart along a length of the body.

14. The hair care apparatus according to any one of claims 9 to 13, wherein the plurality of bristles are shorter than the plurality of comb teeth.

15. The hair care apparatus according to any one of claims 9 to 14, wherein at least one bristle of the plurality of bristles has a height that is in the range of from 7 mm to 10 mm.

16. The hair care apparatus according to any one of claims 9 to 15, when dependent on claim 5, wherein the plurality of bristles comprise one or more rows of bristles interposed between the rearward ridges and the first and/or second lateral ridges.

17. The hair care apparatus according to any one of claims 9 to 16, wherein at least one bristle of the plurality of bristles has a height that is the same as a height of at least one ridge of the plurality of ridges.

18. The hair care apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the outlet is a primary outlet arranged to discharge air through the front of the body.

19. The hair care apparatus according to claim 18, wherein the primary outlet extends along the length of the body.

20. The hair care apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a secondary outlet arranged to discharge air through the first side of the body.

21. The hair care apparatus according to claim 20, wherein the body is configurable between: a first position in which the primary outlet is closed; and a second position in which the primary outlet is open; wherein the secondary outlet is: open in both the first and second positions; or closed in the first position and open in the second position.

22. The hair care apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the comb teeth has a length that is in the range of from 30 mm to 100 mm.

23. The hair care apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising: a mounting portion for releasable mounting to a hair care device configured to supply a flow of heated air to the hair care apparatus; or an airflow generator for supply of an airflow to the body, and a heater for heating the airflow upstream of the body.