[0001] The present invention relates to devices for treating the hair, and more particularly,
but not exclusively, those intended for shaping the hair, notably those intended for
straightening, curling or crimping the hair.
[0002] The invention is concerned with devices comprising two arms that are able to move
with respect to one another, being able to take up a spaced-apart configuration for
introducing a lock of hair between said arms and a moved-together configuration for
treating the lock, the arms being able to move along the lock in this moved-together
configuration. In such devices, the arms frequently carry two heating elements with
which the hair is brought into contact during the use of the device.
Background
[0003] Numerous devices of this type, sometimes also known as straightening irons, have
already been proposed, implementing the application of a haircare product to the hair.
[0004] The application
WO 2009/078046 describes an appliance comprising a seat for accommodating a hair treatment device
allowing a haircare product to be dispensed during operation. This device is composed
of a support material impregnated with the haircare product for a single use. In the
closed position, the support material comes into contact with a presser in the form
of a roller or plate.
[0005] The application
WO 2014/064660 discloses a hairstyling appliance comprising a reservoir containing the product to
be applied, an applicator member for applying said product on one of the jaws and
a steam outlet on the other of the jaws. The applicator member is disposed opposite
a counter-bearing surface. Also known, from the applications
US 2001/0022184 and
WO 2012/157865, are hairstyling appliances comprising heating elements that are each mounted in
an articulated manner on a holding means.
[0006] The invention aims to further improve devices for applying a haircare product to
hair.
Summary
[0007] According to the present invention, a device for treating the hair is provided, said
device comprising:
- a first and a second arm that are able to move relative to one another between a moved-together
configuration for treating the hair and a spaced-apart configuration for inserting
hair to be treated between said arms, the first arm carrying an applicator member
for applying a cosmetic product that is able to come into contact with the hair in
the moved-together configuration of the arms, and the second arm having at least one
housing,
- a pressing element disposed removably in the housing, the pressing element being configured
to press the hair against the applicator member in the moved-together configuration
of the arms, and
- a support means on which the pressing element bears in the housing, this support means
being configured to allow the pressing element to carry out a rocking movement in
the housing.
[0008] The term "rock" should be understood as meaning that the pressing element can exhibit
a rotary movement about at least one axis, it being possible for the movement of the
pressing element to be a more complex movement, with rotary components about several
axes, notably about or parallel to the longitudinal axis of the pressing element and/or
about or parallel to a transverse axis of the housing.
[0009] The pressing element makes it possible to push the hair against the applicator member
so as to allow effective application of the cosmetic product onto the hair.
[0010] The rocking of the pressing element makes it possible to exert a more uniform pressure
along the entire length of the applicator member and to take account of manufacturing
tolerances.
[0011] The pressing element is able to adapt to a possible incorrect inclination of the
applicator member, this being particularly useful when the applicator member is removable
and can come from various sources.
[0012] The fact that the pressing element is removable makes it possible to clean the latter,
notably after a lengthy use or when the user wishes to change the cosmetic product
to be applied. This also makes it possible to change the pressing element, notably
to replace it with a pressing element with a different shape, or with a different
size, in order for example to modify the quantity of cosmetic product applied and/or
the effect obtained on the hair, notably by modifying the force with which the pressing
element presses against the applicator member. This also makes it possible to access
the housing which holds it and to be able to clean the latter and/or change the support
means. For example, in the case of a spring disposed in the housing, this can make
it possible to change the latter notably in order to modify the pressure exerted on
the applicator member by the pressing element.
[0013] Preferably, the pressing element and the applicator member each have an elongate
shape along a longitudinal axis Y and are advantageously the same length.
[0014] More preferably, the pressing element has a bearing surface having a shape complementary
to that of the application surface of the applicator member. For example, the bearing
surface and the application surface are flat in their opposing regions.
[0015] The support member can be rigid; alternatively, it is elastically deformable. In
a further alternative, the support means comprises a region in which contact is made
rigidly and one or more regions in which contact is made with one or more elastic
return members which are designed for example to return the pressing element into
a predefined rest position when there is no mechanical loading by the applicator member.
The elastic return member(s) can be coil springs or leaf springs.
[0016] Preferably, the support means comprises, notably is, a relief protruding from the
bottom of the housing and/or of the pressing element, notably in the form of a half-sphere,
or in the form of a substantially conical tooth, or in the form of a half-cylinder
oriented perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis of the pressing element. Alternatively
or in addition, the support means comprises at least one spring, notably a leaf spring,
disposed in the housing, for example fastened to the bottom of the housing or fastened
to the pressing element. For example, the spring(s) force(s) the pressing element
into abutment against the protruding relief.
[0017] In particular, the spring(s) can force the pressing element into abutment against
the relief protruding from the bottom of the housing.
[0018] The support means can be removable, being held for example in a depression in the
housing when it is in place on the device.
[0019] A small extent of the bearing zone facilitates the rocking.
[0020] Preferably, the bearing region in the housing is situated substantially half-way
along the pressing element.
[0021] Alternatively, the support means comprises at least two springs, notably two coil
springs that are disposed in the housing, fastened to the bottom of the housing or
fastened to the pressing element, and are disposed notably close to the axial ends
of the pressing element. It is then possible for the pressing element to rock on account
of the elastically deformable nature of the springs.
[0022] The housing is preferably closed over at least three of its sides and over its bottom.
[0023] The pressing element, is preferably inserted, notably by being slid, into the housing
or withdrawn therefrom through a front opening in the latter. The pressing element
may comprise at least one relief such as a rib or a groove that cooperates with a
complementary relief such as a groove or a rib on an opposing wall of the device,
at least partially defining the housing.
[0024] The device may comprise, on the second arm, at least one member for locking the pressing
element in the housing, notably a locking member intended to cooperate with the pressing
element, in particular with a corresponding relief on the latter. The locking member
makes it possible to prevent the pressing element from accidentally coming out.
[0025] The pressing element may be able to move along an axis perpendicular to the application
surface, notably able to move over a maximum depression travel of between 5 mm and
1 mm. For example, the abovementioned grooves are wider than the corresponding ribs,
such that the pressing element is able to move in translation relative to the ribs,
and thus to the housing, along this axis. The maximum depression travel may be defined
by a relief on the pressing element, coming into contact with the bottom of the housing,
and/or by the width of the grooves.
[0026] The travel of the pressing element may notably be such that, while the device is
being used, the hairs to be treated, which are held between the two arms of the device,
are aligned, and preferably extend parallel to a direction of movement of the device.
[0027] The pressing element can form a one-piece part.
[0028] The pressing element can have a flat or non-flat bearing surface, notably having
in cross section a contour that is not straight, for example convex or concave towards
the outside, in the form of a dihedron or of a dihedron truncated at its top.
[0029] The pressing element can have a substantially parallelepipedal shape or be formed
by a roller.
[0030] The pressing element can have surface roughness. The roughness can notably help to
straighten the hair.
[0031] The pressing element can be made of a plastics material, notably of polyamide (PA),
glass-fibre reinforced polyamide (PAGF) or polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), or of
metal.
[0032] Alternatively, the pressing element is made of a porous material, notably a material
formed by fibres that are oriented substantially in the same direction and assembled
to form a felt, or of a foam. In this case, the pressing element can help to apply
the product to both sides of the treated lock, and/or to absorb surplus product, and/or
to homogenize the application of the product to the hair.
[0033] The pressing element can be heated. This can make it possible, at the time that the
cosmetic product is applied, to fluidize the latter.
[0034] The pressing element can have a length of between 70 mm and 110 mm.
[0035] The applicator member is preferably made of a porous material, notably formed by
a set of fibres that are oriented substantially in the same direction and assembled
to form a felt, or of a foam.
[0036] The applicator member can have a flat or non-flat bearing surface, notably having
in cross section a side with a contour that is not straight, for example convex or
concave towards the outside.
[0037] Preferably, the applicator member is saturated with the cosmetic product to be applied
to the hair.
[0038] In one exemplary embodiment, the pressing element comprises at least one protuberance
or pin inserted into a path defined by the housing holding the pressing element. This
protuberance or pin defines a rocking axis of the pressing element.
[0039] The path is defined for example by a slot or a groove.
[0040] This protuberance can be carried by an elastically deformable tab of the pressing
element. The protuberance can be fitted in this path by elastic deformation of the
tab that carries it, during the mounting of the pressing element in the housing. Preferably,
the pressing element comprises two such tabs and two such protuberances, which face
one another.
[0041] The pressing element can be urged into the spaced-apart position by two springs,
notably coil springs working in compression, that are held at one end in guides and
bear at the other end against a wall of the pressing element. The housing can have
a relief, notably with a T-shaped cross section, and the pressing element can be retained
in the housing by reliefs of the pressing element, notably bulges, coming into abutment
under the head of the T.
[0042] The comb can be fastened by being slid on the pressing element, by insertion of at
least two mutually separate fastening reliefs into corresponding housings in the pressing
element, which are likewise mutually separate.
[0043] These housings can be situated on either side of the abovementioned path, in the
longitudinal direction. The fastening reliefs can be ribs having a cylindrical shape
with an at least partially circular cross section, and can be connected to the rest
of the comb by lugs which are inserted into corresponding slots, through which the
housings open onto the outside.
[0044] Alternatively, the fastening reliefs are hooks that are inserted into windows in
the pressing element.
[0045] The pressing element can have a U-shaped overall cross section with two opposite
uprights, and the disposition of ribs and housings is preferably such that the comb
is pressed against one of the uprights of the pressing element, the base of the teeth
of the comb being positioned substantially at the wall connecting the uprights, which
also defines the bearing surface for the applicator member.
[0046] The comb can have a longitudinal rib that bears against said upright, above the abovementioned
lugs that connect the cylindrical ribs to the rest of the comb.
[0047] The comb also bears frontally against the upright below said lugs.
[0048] At one end, the comb may comprise an elastically deformable locking tab designed
to be snap-fastened to the pressing element once it has finished being introduced
into the latter.
[0049] Alternatively, the comb may comprise blocking reliefs on the fastening reliefs that
cooperate with complementary blocking reliefs on the pressing element.
[0050] The comb may comprise a blocking tab that closes the introduction opening once the
comb has been mounted on the pressing element.
[0051] The comb may comprise a handle which helps it to be fitted and removed.
[0052] The comb can only be introduced into or removed from the pressing element when the
latter is in its high position. In particular, the walls defining the housings for
receiving the separate longitudinal ribs of the comb can be inserted into corresponding
windows in the underlying structure when the pressing element is depressed, these
windows being formed in a wall of the housing extending between the U-shaped uprights
of the pressing element. When the pressing element is depressed, said wall tends to
prevent the exit of the ribs of the comb that are inserted into said housings.
[0053] The pressing element and the applicator member can be made of the same material.
[0054] More preferably, the applicator member is removable. The applicator member can be
mounted on a part that serves as a holder in order to form a removable refill. The
fact that the applicator member or the refill is removable makes it possible to change
the applicator member for hygiene reasons or when it no longer contains any cosmetic
product, or when the user wishes to use another applicator member or a different refill,
notably with a different shape or containing a different cosmetic product.
[0055] The applicator member can be supplied with product by a reservoir in the arm which
carries it. This reservoir can be fastened permanently to the arm or be removable,
and for example designed to be fitted and removed at the same time as the applicator
member.
[0056] The device may comprise at least two heated plates, which are disposed on the first
and the second arm, respectively, and each press the hair against the other of the
heated plates in the moved-together configuration.
[0057] The pressing element preferably has a length substantially equal to the length of
the heated plate(s).
[0058] The device preferably comprises a detection member for recording the number of applications
of product and/or the time for which the hair is pressed against the applicator member,
for example the number of times the arms are moved together and/or the time for which
they are held in the moved-together configuration. This detection member may comprise
a switch, a reed switch, or an optical, inductive or capacitive sensor. This detection
member is preferably disposed in the housing under the pressing element in order for
the latter to come into contact therewith in the moved-together configuration of the
arms.
[0059] The device may comprise an identifier of the applicator member, notably of the refill,
in particular a particular relief present on the refill or an electronic identification
chip.
[0060] The device may comprise a member for identifying the applicator member, which detects
the identifier of the applicator member and compares it with registered identifiers.
This can prevent the use of an applicator member that is not registered or allow the
device to link a number of applications to the hair and/or an application time with
each applicator member. Thus, when the applicator member is changed, the device recognizes
the new applicator member.
[0061] The device may comprise a steam outlet for exposing the hair introduced into the
device to steam, notably a steam outlet disposed upstream of the applicator member,
in the direction of movement of the device over the hair.
[0062] A further subject of the invention is a method for treating hair with the aid of
a device according to the invention, wherein the arms of the device are closed around
a lock of hair and said device is moved along the lock of hair in order to expose
the latter to the successive steps of:
- applying the cosmetic product by the lock of hair being pressed against the applicator
member by the pressing element,
- optionally, applying steam to the lock of hair, and
- straightening the hair by heating the lock of hair in contact with at least one heated
plate, notably by passing it between two opposing heated plates.
[0063] The method may also include the step(s) of:
- identifying the applicator member, and/or
- detecting whether the applicator member is empty, notably by measuring the number
of applications and/or the time for which the hair is pressed against the applicator
member, and signalling to the user when the applicator member is empty.
[0064] The invention may be better understood from reading the following detailed description
of non-limiting illustrative embodiments thereof and from examining the appended drawing,
in which:
- Figure 1 schematically shows a perspective view of an example of a device according
to the invention,
- Figure 2 is a front view along II in Figure 1,
- Figure 3 is a cross section along III-III in Figure 1,
- Figure 4 is a perspective view of the device from Figure 1 without the pressing element
and the applicator member,
- Figure 5 schematically shows a perspective view of an example of a pressing element,
- Figure 6 is a perspective view along VI in Figure 5,
- Figure 7 is section through an example of a pressing element and of a support means
in the housing,
- Figure 8 shows a cross section through a device incorporating the pressing element
in Figure 7,
- Figures 9 to 12 are longitudinal sections through variants of pressing elements and
of the support means in the housing,
- Figures 13A to 13C are cross sections through variants of pressing elements,
- Figure 14 is a cross section through another example of a device according to the
invention,
- Figures 15 and 16 show two perspective cutaway views of a detail of another example
of the device according to the invention,
- Figure 17 is a cutaway view of a detail of the example of the device in Figures 15
and 16, as seen from the front,
- Figure 18 is a cutaway view of a detail of the example of the device in Figures 15
and 16,
- Figure 19 shows a perspective view of a detail of the pressing element of the device
in Figures 15 and 16,
- Figure 20 is a perspective view of a comb of the device in Figures 15 and 16,
- Figure 21 is a partial view of the comb in Figure 20, from a different perspective
from that in Figure 20,
- Figure 22 is a view from below of a variant of a pressing element and a comb,
- Figure 23 is a cutaway view of a detail of a device configured to receive the pressing
element and the comb of figure 22,
- Figure 24 shows a perspective view of the pressing element of figure 22, and
- Figure 25 is a perspective view of the comb of figure 22.
[0065] In the rest of the description, identical or analogous elements bear the same reference
signs. In order to make the present description concise, these elements are not described
in detail with regard to all of the embodiments. Instead, only the different elements
from one embodiment to another are described in detail.
[0066] Figure 1 shows the handpiece 2 of an example of a device for treating the hair according
to the invention.
[0067] This handpiece 2 has two jaws 3 and 4 that are able to move with respect to one another
between a spaced-apart configuration (not shown) for the introduction between said
jaws of a lock of hair, and a moved-together configuration for treatment, illustrated
in Figure 1.
[0068] The jaws 3 and 4 are carried by an upper arm 5 and a lower arm 6, respectively, which,
in the example in question, are connected together at one end by an articulation 8,
the handpiece 2 thus forming tongs.
[0069] The upper arm 5 and lower arm 6 each preferably have a total length of between 22
cm and 31 cm and define, between the articulation 8 and the jaws 3 and 4, respective
half-handles 10 and 11 on which the user can press in order to move the jaws 3 and
4 together.
[0070] The upper arm 5 and lower arm 6 extend along respective longitudinal axes X
1 and X
2 which are preferably substantially parallel to one another when the jaws 3 and 4
are closed.
[0071] An elastic return member (not visible) is preferably provided to return the jaws
3 and 4 to a spaced-apart configuration, this elastic return member being for example
a spring disposed around an articulation pin 8.
[0072] The invention is not limited to a particular manner of connecting the upper arm 5
and lower arm 6 together and the jaws 3 and 4 may be rendered able to move in some
other way without departing from the scope of the present invention. However, the
presence of an articulation is largely preferred for the ergonomics it provides.
[0073] The jaws 3 and 4 define between one another a region for treating the hair, said
region being intended to receive a lock of hair to be treated, the handpiece 2 being
moved along said lock during the treatment, for example in the direction from the
root to the end of the hair.
[0074] In the example in question, the handpiece 2 is configured to comb the hair by passing
it through a comb 13, to apply a cosmetic product, to treat the hair by way of steam
and then to carry out a heat treatment of the hair by contact with two heating surfaces
15, 16, formed in this case by heated plates intended to heat the hair.
[0075] The direction D of movement of the handpiece 2 over the hair, illustrated in Figure
2, is preferably substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axes X
1 and X
2 of the arms 5 and 6.
[0076] In the example in question, the handpiece 2 is connected by a line 18 to a base station
(not shown) that is fixed during the treatment and is connected to the mains.
[0077] This base station provides the electric power supply to the handpiece 2 and also
its supply with water in order to generate steam, and may also carry out additional
functions of processing electrical signals received from the handpiece 2. The line
18 which connects the handpiece 2 to the base station can thus comprise various electrical
conductors and a water supply pipe.
[0078] A user interface (not shown in the figures) can be present on the handpiece 2 so
as to allow the user for example to start up certain components thereof, or not.
[0079] The cosmetic product is applied by a refill 20 carried by one of the two arms, 5
or 6, in this case the upper arm 5. The refill 20 comes into contact with a pressing
element 21 disposed opposite the latter.
[0080] The refill 20 comprises a body 23 and an applicator member 26 that is held in the
body 23 and has an application surface 36 that comes into contact with the hair present
above the pressing element 21.
[0081] The refill 20 can be fastened to the arm 5 or 6 by any means, notably, as illustrated
in Figure 3, by sliding a rib 27 of the body 23 into a groove 29 with a complementary
shape.
[0082] The body 23 has a cavity 30 that opens towards the outside by way of an opening 31
into which the applicator member 26 is inserted while the refill 20 is being manufactured.
The body 23 comprises reliefs 32 for holding the applicator member 26 that extend
into the cavity 30.
[0083] The body 23 and the applicator member 26 have substantially the overall shape of
a rectangular parallelepiped and are elongate along a longitudinal axis Z.
[0084] The applicator member 26 is composed for example of fibres that are oriented substantially
in the same direction, parallel to the axis Z, and are assembled to form a felt. The
application surface 35 of the applicator member 26 may, as illustrated, be flat.
[0085] Alternatively, the applicator member 26 can be produced by assembling two felts,
notably with different densities. In this alternative, one of the felts can be composed
of fibres which are oriented in one direction, notably parallel to the axis Z, and
the other of the felts can be composed of fibres which are oriented in a direction
perpendicular to the other fibres and notably perpendicular to the axis Z.
[0086] As can notably be seen, in Figure 3, the pressing element 21 has a bearing surface
36 which may have a shape complementary to the application surface 35. The bearing
surface 36 can thus be flat, elongate along a longitudinal axis Y substantially parallel
to the longitudinal axis Z in the moved-together position of the arms 5 and 6, and
have substantially the same extent as the application surface 35.
[0087] The pressing element 21 is housed removably in a housing 38 through a front opening
in the latter. The housing 38 also opens outwards through at least one opening 37
facing the applicator member 26.
[0088] In the example illustrated in Figure 3, the pressing element 21 is introduced into
its housing 38 by ribs 45 on the housing 38 being slid into corresponding grooves
48 in the pressing element 21. The ribs 45 are disposed on opposite side walls 54
and 56 of the housing 38. The grooves 48 in the pressing element 21 are disposed on
the side walls of the pressing element 21, which face the walls 54 and 56, respectively.
[0089] The pressing element 21 is able to move along an axis Q perpendicular to the longitudinal
axis Y, between a high position spaced apart from the bottom of the housing 38 and
a low position moved together therewith.
[0090] The pressing element 21 bears against a support means 40 that extends in the housing
38, allowing the pressing element 21 to carry out a rocking movement and, in the open
position of the arms 5 and 6, keeping the pressing element 21 in the high position.
[0091] The travel P of the pressing element between its high position and its low position
is between 1 mm and 5 mm, for example equal to around 3 mm. The movement of the pressing
element 21 is limited by the bottom 42 of the housing or by the width
l of the groove 48.
[0092] The travel of the pressing element advantageously makes it possible to position the
pressing element, in the closed position of the device, such that the hairs are substantially
aligned, that is to say without deviation of a lock of hair between the part situated
between the heated plates and the part situated between the pressing element and the
applicator member. In other words, while the device is being used, the distance between
the two heated plates is substantially equal to the distance between the pressing
element and the applicator member, these two distances being measured in a direction
substantially collinear with the axis Q. Moreover, the bearing surface 36 of the pressing
element is substantially coplanar with the heating surface 16, while the application
surface 35 is substantially coplanar with the heating surface 15, in planes normal
to the direction Q. This thus improves the straightening of the hair by the device.
[0093] In the example illustrated in Figures 3, 5 and 6, the support means 40 is a leaf
spring fastened in a depression 41 in the pressing element 21, oriented towards the
bottom 42 of the housing 38. Thus, the leaf spring 40 bears against the bottom 42
of the housing 38 in a region 43 about which the rocking of the pressing element 21
takes place about a rotation axis B substantially perpendicular to the axes Y and
Q.
[0094] At its ends, the leaf spring 40 has fastening tabs 44 that come into contact with
the pressing element 21 in the depression 41 and, therebetween, a portion 46 that
is convex towards the bottom 42 of the housing 38, the central part of which defines
the rocking region 43.
[0095] The height s taken up by the leaf spring 40 prior to introduction into the housing
88 is greater than or equal to the distance
f between the bottom of the housing 43 and the bottom of the depression 41. Thus, the
leaf spring 40 is always loaded by contact with the bottom of the housing 42. The
distance
f is for example between 1 mm and 5 mm, and for example equal to around 3 mm.
[0096] The housing 38 is substantially the same length
L as the pressing element 21. The length
L of the pressing element 21 is for example between 70 mm and 110 mm, preferably 90
mm. Preferably, the pressing element has a length substantially equal to the length
of the heating surface(s).
[0097] The grooves 48 have a width
l greater than the thickness
e of the ribs 45. The width
l of the ribs 48 is for example between 1 mm and 5 mm, for example equal to around
3.2 mm. The thickness e of the grooves 45 is between 0.5 mm and 5 mm, in this case
equal to 1 mm. Such a difference allows the pressing element 21 to move along the
axis Y and/or to rock as described above.
[0098] In the example illustrated in Figure 3, the two ribs 45 are offset along the axis
Q by a distance
d of for example between 1 mm and 5 mm, for example equal to around 2 mm.
[0099] The pressing element 21 is locked in the housing 38 by a protruding relief 50, visible
in Figures 5 and 6, that is present in the groove 48 in the pressing element 21 and
which engages with a set-back relief 52, visible in Figure 4, in the rib 45 of the
housing 38.
[0100] The relief 50 does not extend along the entire width
l of the groove 48, and so, in order to remove the pressing element 21, it is sufficient
to press on the latter such that it is depressed along the axis Q and the relief 50
detaches from the relief 52. It is thus possible to slide the pressing element 21
forwards in the housing 38.
[0101] The comb 13 is situated upstream of the applicator member 26 and the pressing element
21 in the direction D of movement of the handpiece 2. The comb 13 is integral with
the pressing element 21, preferably being moulded in one piece with the latter.
[0102] The comb 13 extends parallel to the bearing surface 36 and along substantially the
entire length thereof.
[0103] The comb 13 has a plurality of teeth 55 that each extend along an axis parallel to
the axis Q. The comb 13 advantageously has more than 20 teeth 55, better still more
than 30 teeth 55, and in this case there are around 44 teeth.
[0104] The base of the teeth 55 is set back with respect to the bearing surface 35, notably
by a distance r of between 0.2 mm and 5 mm, for example equal to 2 mm. This allows
the hair to be inserted properly between the bearing surface 36 and the application
surface 35.
[0105] The teeth 55 are preferably all the same height
H, between 2 mm and 12 mm, for example equal to 8 mm. This height is sufficiently great
to allow a proper hold of the hair between the teeth 55.
[0106] The teeth 55 are all at equal distances from one another. The spacing k between the
teeth 55 is preferably between 0.3 mm and 3 mm, for example equal to 1 mm. The pressing
element 21 may comprise a relief such as a tongue 57 to make it easier to grasp.
[0107] In Figures 3 and 4, the handpiece 2 has a steam outlet 58 that is disposed on the
arm 6 and is used after the cosmetic product has been applied to the hair.
[0108] Thus, while the handpiece 2 is being used, the user closes the two arms 5 and 6 around
a lock of hair and moves the handpiece 2, in the closed position, from the root of
the hair to the end of the latter. The hair is first of all combed by the comb 13,
then product is applied by the hair being pressed against the applicator member 26
by the pressing element 21, and then the hair is subjected to steam by the steam outlet
58 and finally is heated between two heating surfaces 15 and 16.
[0109] The example in Figures 7 and 8 differs from the one in Figures 1 to 6 in that the
leaf spring 40 is fastened or positioned in the housing 38. The latter comprises for
example a depression 60 that receives the leaf spring 40, where the latter is fastened
by any suitable fastening means.
[0110] The leaf spring 40 is then in contact with the bottom of the housing 42 by way of
its ends 44 and its region of contact with the pressing element 21 defines a rocking
region 43.
[0111] The examples in Figures 9 and 10 differ from the one in Figures 1 to 6 in that the
support means 40 is a relief protruding from the pressing element 21 or from the bottom
42 of the housing 38.
[0112] In the example in Figure 9, the protruding relief 40 is a relief on the bottom 42
of the housing 38. The relief 40 has a substantially triangular shape, in section
in a plane containing the longitudinal axis of the pressing element 21.
[0113] This does not have to be the case, and the protruding relief 40 may notably have
a semicircular or semi-polygonal shape.
[0114] The protruding relief 40 may be in the form of a tooth which extends from the centre
of the bottom 42 of the housing 38 and against which the pressing element 21 bears.
The pressing element 21 can bear against the end of the tooth 40, which has a small
extent. This allows the pressing element to rock about at least two different rotation
axes, notably an axis parallel to the axis Y and the axis B.
[0115] Alternatively, the protruding relief 40 can be in the form of a half-cylinder extending
along an axis parallel to the axis B, and the pressing element 24 bears against a
generatrix of the relief 40.
[0116] The example in Figure 10 differs from the one in Figure 9 in that the protruding
relief 40 belongs to the pressing element 21.
[0117] The example in Figure 11 differs from the one in Figures 1 to 6 in that the support
means 40 is a coil spring. The latter is interposed between the pressing element 21
and the bottom 42 of the housing 38. The pressing element 21 and the bottom of the
housing 42 each comprise a depression 41 and 60, for keeping the coil spring 40 in
position. The latter is disposed so as to bear against the centre of the pressing
element 21.
[0118] The example in Figure 12 differs from the one in Figure 11 in that the support means
40 comprises two coil springs 40a and 40b, each disposed close to one end of the pressing
element 21.
[0119] Figures 13A to 13C illustrate variants of the bearing surface 36 of the pressing
element 21.
[0120] The bearing surface 36 can have a cross section that is curved, as illustrated in
Figure 13A, in the form of a dihedron, as illustrated in Figure 13B, or in the form
of a truncated dihedron, as illustrated in Figure 13C. However, the invention is not
limited to such forms.
[0121] The example in Figure 14 differs from the one in Figures 1 to 4 in that the comb
13 is mounted on the pressing element 21 in a removable manner. The comb 13 may comprise
at least one groove 70, notably a T-shaped groove, intended to engage with a complementary
rib 72 on the pressing element 21. The groove 70 makes it possible to keep the comb
13 on the pressing element 21.
[0122] The comb 13 and/or the pressing element 21 may comprise a locking member (not illustrated)
for preventing the comb from coming away freely from the pressing element 21.
[0123] Alternatively, the comb 13 comprises a rib and the applicator member comprises a
corresponding groove. Any other means of removable fastening is also possible.
[0124] Figures 15 to 21 illustrate another variant of a pressing element 21 on which a comb
13 is mounted in a removable manner.
[0125] According to this other variant, the pressing element 21 has, along at least a part
of its length, a cross section with the overall shape of a U. The upper surface of
the web of the U in this case forms the bearing surface 36. The two lateral uprights
101, 102 of the U have respective retaining bulges 103 and 104. These bulges are oriented
towards one another and extend substantially in the longitudinal direction of the
pressing element 21.
[0126] The lower arm 6, holding the pressing element 21, has a protruding relief 105 with
a T-shaped cross section, the head 160 of which is held between the uprights 101 and
102.
[0127] The lower arm 6 also forms two housings for receiving respective springs 40a, 40b
that are open towards the pressing element 21. Complementary guides for holding the
coil springs 40a, 40b can be provided on the pressing element 21, notably in the region
opposite the bearing surface 36.
[0128] The pressing element 21 comprises tabs 157, one of which is visible in Figure 18
and which are each provided with facing protuberances 156. These protuberances 156
are intended to slide in grooves 155 in the relief 105, substantially half-way along
the latter.
[0129] The pressing element 21 can be mounted on the lower arm 6 as follows:
- the two coil springs 40a, 40b are disposed in the housings of the lower arm 6 that
are provided to this end;
- the pressing element 21 is placed above the relief 105, such that the pressing element
21 covers the two coil springs 40a, 40b;
- the pressing element 21 is snapped into place on the relief 105, so as to bring about
the deformation of the lateral uprights 101, 102, until the bulges 103, 104 are snap-fastened
on the head 160 of the relief 105. The springs 40a, 40b urge the bulges 103, 104 into
abutment against the head 160 of the relief 105. The bulges 103, 104 prevent the pressing
element 21 from coming away from the lower arm 6.
[0130] While the pressing element 21 is being fitted, the tabs 157 deform elastically so
as to allow the protuberances 156 to be fitted in the grooves 155.
[0131] Moreover, as shown, the pressing element 21 forms a rib 106 that extends in the longitudinal
direction thereof. The rib 106 is in this case oriented towards the outside of the
device, when the pressing element 21 is mounted.
[0132] A comb 13 that can be joined to the pressing element 21 is illustrated in Figures
20 and 21.
[0133] The comb 13 has in this case two cylindrical ribs 107, 108 that extend in the longitudinal
direction of the comb 13, on one and the same side thereof.
[0134] The cylindrical ribs 107, 108 each extend along only a part of the length of the
comb 13, one after the other in the lengthwise direction of the comb 13.
[0135] The two cylindrical ribs 107, 108 are connected to a web 109 of the comb 13 by two
lugs 110, 111 that extend substantially perpendicularly to the teeth 55 of the comb.
[0136] The comb 13 also has a blocking tab 115 which extends, as illustrated, perpendicularly
to the longitudinal direction of the comb 13 and to the plane of the tongue 57.
[0137] The tab 115 is provided in the vicinity of the end of the comb 13 having the tongue
57. Preferably, the tab 115 is situated, in the lengthwise direction of the comb 13,
between the teeth 55 and the tongue 57.
[0138] The comb 13 also has, at its opposite end from the one having the tongue 57, a locking
relief 116. As illustrated in Figure 21 notably, the locking relief 116 is in the
form of an elastically deformable locking tab, successively comprising, from the opposite
end of the comb 13 from the end having the tongue:
- a first bulge 117,
- a first depression 118 immediately adjacent to the first bulge 117, such that the
comb 13 has a reduced thickness at this first depression 118,
- a second bulge 119, which is longer than the first bulge 117 and has substantially
the same thickness, and
- a second depression 120, such that the thickness of the comb 13 at this second depression
is substantially the same as that at the first depression.
[0139] In this case, "thickness" is understood as meaning a dimension measured in a cross-sectional
plane of the comb 13 and in a direction perpendicular to that of the height of the
teeth 55.
[0140] Of course, further examples of locking reliefs can be implemented. Notably, it is
possible for the second bulge and/or the second depression not to be present.
[0141] Windows 152 are provided in the structure which accommodates the pressing element
21 in order to receive the cylindrical wall of the housings 150 when the pressing
element 21 is depressed.
[0142] The comb 13 is in this case mounted on the pressing element 21 for example as follows:
- the two cylindrical ribs 107, 108 are placed next to the corresponding housings 150
formed in the pressing element 21 in a longitudinal direction of the pressing element
21, the pressing element 21 being in a high position with the two arms 5, 6 of the
device in the spaced-apart position;
- the cylindrical ribs 107, 108 are slid into the housings 150 in the longitudinal direction
of the pressing element 21, the lugs 110, 111 passing through the openings in the
housings 150;
- the sliding movement is continued until the depression 118 of the locking tab is snap-fastened
to the edge 122 of a window 121 formed at the end of the element 21.
[0143] Once the comb has been fitted on the pressing element, the tab 115 closes the opening
for introducing the comb into the pressing element.
[0144] During use, the applicator element comes into contact with the pressing element 21,
at a particular angle. Next, the pressing element 21 rocks about the axis of the protuberances
156 in order to maximize the area of contact between the bearing surface 36 of the
pressing element 21 and the application surface of the applicator element. Finally,
the pressing element 21 is depressed vertically until the heated plates come into
abutment, the protuberances 156 moving in the corresponding ribs 155.
[0145] The embodiment described with regard to Figures 15 to 21 makes it possible to have
a uniform contact pressure over the entire contact area between the bearing surface
and the application surface. This embodiment also makes it possible to have a maximum
area of contact. The construction of the comb in this embodiment also has the advantage
of limiting the impact thereof on the width of the device, such that device becomes
more compact.
[0146] In this embodiment, the comb and the pressing element are advantageously produced
by several crenellated extrusions, formed by the walls of the housing 150 and the
cylindrical ribs 107, 108. Specifically, compared with a structure produced by a single
extrusion, this makes it possible to limit the interactions with the springs and/or
with the protuberances 156 defining the central guiding axis of the pressing element.
[0147] Another variant is illustrated in Figures 22 to 25, of a pressing element 21 on which
a comb 13 is mounted in a removable manner.
[0148] According to this other variant, the pressing element 21 has, along at least a part
of its length, a cross section in the overall shape of a U. The upper surface of the
web of the U in this case forms the bearing surface 36. The two lateral uprights 101,
102 of the U are connected together by a central pin 200 and two end planes 202 and
203 that extend perpendicularly to the longitudinal direction of the pressing element
21. Alternatively, the central pin 200 extends from one of the two lateral uprights
101 or 102 towards the other of the lateral uprights but is not connected to the latter.
The central pin 200 is substantially equidistant from the two end planes 202 and 203.
The two end planes 202 and 203 make it possible to close the pressing element 120
at its ends, thereby increasing the strength and limiting deformations of the latter.
[0149] The lower arm 6, holding the pressing element 21, has a guide slot 205 that extends
vertically and holds the pin 200 when the pressing element 21 is mounted on the arm
6, making it possible to guide the pin 200 in vertical movement.
[0150] The lower arm 6 also forms two housings for receiving respective springs 40a, 40b
that are open towards the pressing element 21. Complementary guides for receiving
coil springs 40a, 40b can be provided on the pressing element 21, notably in the region
opposite the bearing surface 36.
[0151] The pressing element 21 comprises studs 210 and 212 that are moulded together with
the pressing element 21 and have an internal thread. These studs 210 and 212 are housed
in a sliding manner in through-holes 215 and 217 in the lower arm 6. They each carry,
at their free end that juts out of the holes 215 and 217, a washer 220 and 222 and
a screw 225 and 227. Such elements make it possible to keep the studs in the holes.
The lower arm 6 has an internal space 230 allowing the vertical movement in this space
230 of the assemblies of screw tabs 210 and 212, washers 220 and 222 and screws 225
and 227 by sliding in the holes 215 and 217.
[0152] A comb 13 that can be joined to the pressing element 21 is illustrated in Figures
22 and 25.
[0153] The comb 13 has in this case two hooks 237, 238 that extend from the comb towards
the rear of the latter on one and the same side thereof. The two hooks 237 and 238
each have an end portion that extends in the longitudinal direction of the comb 13
and are connected to the comb by a connecting portion that forms an elbow with the
end portion.
[0154] The hooks 237, 238 extend one behind the other in the lengthwise direction of the
comb 13.
[0155] The pressing element 21 comprises windows 245 and 247 for respectively holding the
hooks 237 and 238. The windows 245 and 247 are elongate along the longitudinal axis
of the pressing element 21 such that the end portions of the hooks 237 and 238 can
be inserted into said windows 245 and 247. The length of the windows is greater than
or equal to the length of the end portions of the hooks 237 and 238.
[0156] Each end portion of the hooks 237 and 238 comprises a blocking relief 250 and 251
that is snap-fastened together with a complementary blocking relief 260 and 261 on
the pressing element 21.
[0157] The connecting portion of the hooks 237 and 238 can have a surface 265 and 266 which
is oriented towards the side opposite the hooks 237 and 238 and has a chamfer so as
to be oriented obliquely with respect to the longitudinal axis of the comb. The end
of the hooks 237 and 238 can also have a chamfer towards the inside of the hook. Such
chamfers make it easier to remove the comb 13 from the pressing element 21.
[0158] The lateral surfaces of the windows 245 and 247 can also have oblique lateral surfaces
(not shown) with respect to the longitudinal axis of the pressing element 21. Such
an orientation of the surfaces of the windows can make it even easier to remove the
comb 13 from the pressing element 21 by guiding the hooks through the windows.
[0159] The comb 13 also has a gripping tab 214 which extends, as illustrated, perpendicularly
to the longitudinal direction of the comb 13.
[0160] The comb 13 is mounted on the pressing element 21 in this case for example as follows:
- the two hooks 237 and 238 are positioned next to the corresponding windows 245 and
247 that are formed on the pressing element 21, the latter being in the high position
with the two arms 5, 6 of the device in the spaced-apart position;
- the hooks 237 and 238 are inserted into the windows 245 and 247 and the comb 13 is
slid towards the rear, in the longitudinal direction of the pressing element 21, the
blocking reliefs 250 and 251 of the hooks 237 and 238 being snap-fastened onto the
complementary blocking reliefs 260 and 261 on the pressing element 21.
[0161] During use, the applicator element comes into contact with the pressing element 21,
at a particular angle. Next, the pressing element 21 rocks about the central pin 200
so as to maximize the area of contact between the bearing surface 36 of the pressing
element 21 and the application surface of the applicator element. Finally, the pressing
element 21 is depressed vertically until the heated plates come into abutment, the
central pin 200 sliding in the slot 205 and the screw tabs 210 and 212 sliding in
the holes 215 and 217.
[0162] The embodiment described with regard to Figures 22 to 25 makes it possible to have
a greater strength of the pressing element and of the comb, better retention of the
pressing element on the arm, a more limited lateral rocking clearance of the pressing
element, thereby limiting the risks of disengagement of the pressing element, increasing
the rigidity of the pressing element and improving the guiding of the pressing element
on the arm.
[0163] The invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiments which have just been described,
the characteristics of which may be combined with one another as parts of variants
which are not illustrated. The invention can also be varied in numerous ways which
are achievable by a person skilled in the art, as long as these variations fall under
the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.
[0164] For example, the bearing surface 36 can exhibit roughness which can help to straighten
the hair. The pressing element and the applicator member can moreover be made of the
same material.
1. Device for treating the hair, comprising:
- a first and a second arm (5, 6) that are able to move relative to one another between
a moved-together configuration for treating the hair and a spaced-apart configuration
for inserting hair to be treated between said arms, the first arm (5) carrying an
applicator member (26) for applying a cosmetic product that is able to come into contact
with the hair in the moved-together configuration of the arms (5, 6), and the second
arm (6) having at least one housing (38),
- a pressing element (21) disposed removably in the housing (38), the pressing element
(21) being configured to press the hair against the applicator member (26) in the
moved-together configuration, and
- a support means (40) on which the pressing element (21) bears in the housing (38),
this support means (40) being configured to allow the pressing element (21) to carry
out a rocking movement in the housing (38).
2. Device according to Claim 1, wherein the pressing element (21) is in one piece.
3. Device according to Claim 1 or 2, wherein the pressing element (21) has a bearing
surface (36) having a shape complementary to that of the application surface (35)
of the applicator member (26).
4. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the housing (38) is closed
over at least three of its sides and over its bottom.
5. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the pressing element
(21) has a bearing surface (36) and the applicator member (26) has an application
surface (35), the bearing surface (36) and the application surface (35) being flat
in their opposing regions.
6. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the pressing element
(21) is inserted, notably by being slid, into the housing (38) or withdrawn therefrom
through a front opening in the latter.
7. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the pressing element
(21) comprises at least one relief such as a rib or a groove (48) that cooperates
with a complementary relief such as a groove or a rib (45) on an opposing wall (54;
56) of the device, at least partially defining the housing (38).
8. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, which comprises, on the second
arm (6), at least one member (52; 105) for locking the pressing element (21) in the
housing (38), notably a locking member (52; 105) intended to cooperate with a corresponding
relief (50; 103, 104) on the pressing element (21).
9. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the pressing element
(21) is able to move along an axis (Q) perpendicular to the application surface (35),
notably over a maximum depression travel (P) of between 1 mm and 5 mm, preferably
the travel of the pressing element (21) being such that, while the device is being
used, the hairs to be treated, which are held between the two arms of the device,
are aligned, and preferably extend parallel to a direction of movement of the device.
10. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the applicator member
(26) is saturated with cosmetic product to be applied to the hair.
11. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the support means (40)
is a relief protruding from the bottom (42) of the housing (38) and/or of the pressing
element (21), and/or wherein the support means (40) comprises at least one spring,
notably a leaf spring, disposed in the housing (38), for example fastened to the bottom
(42) of the housing (38) or fastened to the pressing element (21), preferably the
spring(s) forcing the pressing element (21) into abutment against the relief (105)
protruding from the bottom of the housing.
12. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the bearing region about
which the rocking (43) takes place in the housing (38) is situated substantially half-way
along the pressing element (21).
13. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, which comprises notably a detection
member for recording the number of applications of product and/or the time for which
the hair is pressed against the applicator member (26), comprising notably a switch,
a reed switch, or an optical, inductive or capacitive sensor, the detection member
preferably being disposed in the housing (38).
14. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the arms
(5; 6), preferably each arm (5; 6), is provided with a heated plate (15; 16) intended
to come into contact with a lock of hair to be treated, in the closed position of
the device.
15. Method for treating hair with the aid of a device according to any one of the preceding
claims, wherein the arms of the device are closed around a lock of hair and said device
is moved along the lock of hair in order to expose the latter to the successive steps
of:
- applying the cosmetic product by the lock of hair being pressed against the applicator
member (26) by the pressing element (21),
- optionally, applying steam to the lock of hair, and
- straightening the hair by heating the lock of hair in contact with a heated plate
(15; 16), notably by passing it between two opposing heated plates (15, 16).
1. Einrichtung zur Behandlung des Haares, die aufweist:
- einen ersten und einen zweiten Arm (5, 6), die dazu in der Lage sind, sich relativ
zueinander zwischen einer zusammenbewegten Konfiguration zur Behandlung des Haares
und einer beabstandeten Konfiguration zum Einführen des Haares, das zwischen den Armen
zu behandeln ist, zu bewegen, wobei der erste Arm (5) einen Applikatorabschnitt (26)
zum Applizieren eines kosmetischen Produktes hat, das dazu in der Lage ist, in der
zusammebewegten Konfiguration der Arme (5, 6) in Kontakt zu dem Haar zu kommen, und
der zweite Arm (6) hat zumindest ein Gehäuse (38),
- ein Drückelement (21), das entfernbar in dem Gehäuse (38) angeordnet ist, wobei
das Drückelement (21) konfiguriert ist, um das Haar gegen den Applikatorabschnitt
(26) in der zusammenbewegten Konfiguration zu drücken, und
- ein Abstützmittel (40), auf welches das Drückelement (21) in dem Gehäuse (38) abgestützt
ist, wobei das Abstützmittel (40) konfiguriert ist, um es dem Drückelement (21) zu
ermöglichen, eine schaukelnde bzw. schlingernde Bewegung in dem Gehäuse (38) auszuführen.
2. Einrichtung nach Anspruch 1, wobei das Drückelement (21) aus einem Stück ist.
3. Einrichtung nach Anspruch 1 oder 2, wobei das Drückelement (21) eine abstützende Oberfläche
(36) hat, das eine Form entgegengesetzt zu der der Applikationsoberfläche (35) von
dem Applikatorabschnitt (26) hat.
4. Einrichtung nach irgendeinem der voranstehenden Ansprüche, wobei das Gehäuse (38)
über zumindest drei seiner Seiten und über seinen Boden bzw. Grund geschlossen ist.
5. Einrichtung gemäß irgendeinem der voranstehenden Ansprüche, wobei das Drückelement
(21) eine abstützende Oberlfäche (36) hat und der Applikatorabschnitt (26) eine Applikationsoberfläche
(35) hat, wobei die abstützende Oberfläche (36) und die Applikationsoberfläche (35)
in ihren gegenüberliegenden Bereichen eben sind.
6. Einrichtung gemäß irgendeinem der voranstehenden Ansprüche, wobei das Drückelement
(21) hauptsächlich indem es geschoben wird, in das Gehäuse (38) über eine Frontöffnung
in dem letzteren eingesetzt oder daraus herausgezogen ist.
7. Einrichtung gemäß irgendeinem der voranstehenden Ansprüche, wobei das Drückelement
(21) aufweist, zumindest eine Vertiefung wie etwa eine Rippe oder eine Rille (48),
die mit einer komplementären Vertiefung, wie etwa einer Rille oder einer Rippe (40)
auf einer gegenüberliegenden Wand (54, 56) der Einrichtung zusammenwirkt, wobei zumindest
teilweise das Gehäuse (38) definiert, wird.
8. Einrichtung gemäß irgendeinem der voranstehenden Ansprüche, welche aufweist, auf dem
zweiten Arm (6) zumindest einem Abschnitt (52; 105) zum Sperren des Drückelements
(21) in dem Gehäuse (38), wobei ein Sperrabschnitt (52; 105) hauptsächlich dazu bestimmt
ist, mit einer entsprechenden Vertiefung (50; 103, 104) auf dem Drückelement (21)
zusammenzuwirken.
9. Einrichtung gemäß irgendeinem der voranstehenden Ansprüche, wobei das Drückelement
(21) dazu in der Lage ist, entlang einer Achse (Q) senkrecht zu der Applikationsoberfläche
(35) bewegt zu werden, hauptsächlich über einen maximalen Absenkungsweg (P) von zwischen
1 mm und 5 mm, wobei bevorzugt der Weg des Drückelementes (21) derart ist, dass, während
die Einrichtung verwendet wird, die Haare, die zu behandeln sind, die zwischen den
zwei Armen der Einrichtung gehalten werden, ausgerichtet werden, und bevorzugt parallel
zu einer Richtung der Bewegung der Einrichtung erstreckt sind.
10. Einrichtung gemäß irgendeinem der voranstehenden Ansprüche, wobei der Applikatorabschnitt
(26) mit kosmetischem Produkt, das auf das Haar anzuwenden ist, gesättigt ist.
11. Einrichtung gemäß irgendeinem der voranstehenden Ansprüche, wobei die Abstützeinrichtung
(40) eine Vertiefung ist, die sich von dem Boden bzw. Grund (42) des Gehäuses (38),
und/oder von dem Drückelement (21) fortsetzt bzw. erstreckt, und/oder wobei das Abstützmittel
(40) zumindest eine Feder, hauptsächlich eine Blattfeder, aufweist, die in dem Gehäuse
(38) untergebracht ist, z.B. befestigt an dem Boden bzw. Grund (42) von dem Gehäuse
(38) oder befestigt an dem Drückelement (21), wobei bevorzugt die Feder(n) das Drückelement
(21) in Anlage gegen die Vertiefung (105) zwingt, die sich von dem Boden bzw. Grund
des Gehäuses erstreckt.
12. Einrichtung gemäß irgendeinem der voranstehenden Ansprüche, wobei der Abstütz- bzw.
Lagerbereich, über welchen das Schaukeln bzw. Schlingen (43) in dem Gehäuse (38) stattfindet,
im Wesentlichen auf dem halben Weg entlang des Drückelements (21) angeordnet ist.
13. Einrichtung gemäß irgendeinem der voranstehenden Ansprüche, welche aufweist, im Wesentlichen
eine Erfassungseinrichtung zum Aufzeichnen der Anzahl von Anwendungen des Produktes
und/oder der Zeit über welche das Haar gegen den Applikatorabschnitt (26) gedrückt
wird, die im Wesentlichen aufweist, einen Schalter, einen Reed-Schalter, oder einen
optischen, induktiven oder kapazitiven Sensor, wobei der Erfassungsabschnitt bevorzugt
in dem Gehäuse (38) untergebracht ist.
14. Einrichtung nach irgendeinem der voranstehenden Ansprüche, wobei zumindest einer der
Arme (5; 6), bevorzugt jeder Arm (5; 6) mit einer erhitzten Platte (15; 16) versehen
ist, die dazu bestimmt ist, in Kontakt mit einer Haarlocke, die zu behandeln ist,
in der geschlossenen Position der Einrichtung zu kommen.
15. Verfahren zur Behandlung von Haar mit der Hilfe einer Einrichtung gemäß irgendeinem
der voranstehenden Ansprüche, wobei die Arme der Einrichtung um eine Haarlocke geschlossen
werden und die Einrichtung entlang der Haarlocke bewegt wird, um die letztere den
aufeinanderfolgenden Schritten wie folgt auszusetzen:
- das kosmetische Produkt wird auf die Haarlocke angewendet, indem diese gegen den
Applikatorabschnitt (26) durch das Drückelement (21) gedrückt wird,
- optional wird Dampf auf die Haarlocke angewendet, und
- das Haar wird durch Erhitzen der Haarlocke in Kontakt zu einer geheizten Platte
(15; 16) geglättet, im Wesentlichen indem sie zwischen zwei gegenüberliegenden geheizten
Platten (15; 16) passiert.
1. Dispositif de traitement de la chevelure comportant :
un premier et un second bras (5, 6) pouvant se déplacer l'un par rapport à l'autre
entre une configuration rapprochée pour traiter la chevelure et une configuration
espacée pour insérer la chevelure à traiter entre lesdits bras, le premier bras (5)
portant un organe d'application (26) pour appliquer un produit cosmétique qui peut
venir en contact avec la chevelure dans la configuration rapprochée des bras (5, 6),
et le second bras (6) présentant au moins un logement (38),
un élément presseur (21) disposé de manière amovible dans le logement (38), l'élément
presseur (21) étant configuré pour comprimer la chevelure contre l'organe d'application
(26) dans la configuration rapprochée, et
un moyen de soutien (40) sur lequel l'élément presseur (21) s'appuie dans le logement
(38), ce moyen de soutien (40) étant configuré pour permettre à l'élément presseur
(21) de réaliser un mouvement de bascule dans le logement (38) .
2. Dispositif selon la revendication 1, dans lequel l'élément presseur (21) est monobloc.
3. Dispositif selon la revendication 1 ou 2, dans lequel l'élément presseur (21) présente
une surface d'appui (36) ayant une forme complémentaire de celle de la surface d'application
(35) de l'organe d'application (26).
4. Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans lequel le logement
(38) est fermé sur au moins trois de ses côtés et sur son fond.
5. Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans lequel l'élément
presseur (21) présente une surface d'appui (36) et l'organe d'application (26) présente
une surface d'application (35), la surface d'appui (36) et la surface d'application
(35) étant planes dans leurs régions opposées.
6. Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans lequel l'élément
presseur (21) est inséré, notamment par coulissement, dans le logement (38) ou extrait
de ce dernier par une ouverture frontale dans ce dernier.
7. Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans lequel l'élément
presseur (21) comporte au moins un relief tel qu'une nervure ou une rainure (48) qui
coopère avec un relief complémentaire tel qu'une rainure ou une nervure (45) sur une
paroi opposée (54 ; 56) du dispositif, définissant au moins partiellement le logement
(38).
8. Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, qui comporte, sur
le second bras (6), au moins un organe (52 ; 105) pour verrouiller l'élément presseur
(21) dans le logement (38), notamment un organe de verrouillage (52 ; 105) destiné
à coopérer avec un relief correspondant (50 ; 103, 104) sur l'élément presseur (21).
9. Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans lequel l'élément
presseur (21) peut se déplacer le long d'un axe (Q) perpendiculaire à la surface d'application
(35), notamment sur une course d'enfoncement maximale (P) comprise entre 1 mm et 5
mm, de préférence la course de l'élément presseur (21) est telle que, alors que le
dispositif est utilisé, les cheveux à traiter, qui sont maintenus entre les deux bras
du dispositif, sont alignés, et s'étendent de préférence parallèlement à une direction
de déplacement du dispositif.
10. Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans lequel l'organe
d'application (26) est saturé avec le produit cosmétique à appliquer sur les cheveux.
11. Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans lequel le moyen
de soutien (40) est un relief en saillie du fond (42) du logement (38) et/ou de l'élément
presseur (21), et/ou dans lequel le moyen de soutien (40) comporte au moins un ressort,
notamment un ressort à lame, disposé dans le logement (38), par exemple fixé au fond
(42) du logement (38) ou fixé à l'élément presseur (21), de préférence le (les) ressort(s)
forçant l'élément presseur (21) en butée contre le relief (105) faisant saillie du
fond du logement.
12. Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans lequel la région
d'appui autour de laquelle le basculement (43) a lieu dans le logement (38), est située
sensiblement à mi-chemin le long de l'élément presseur (21).
13. Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, qui comporte notamment
un organe de détection pour enregistrer le nombre d'applications de produit et/ou
le temps pendant lequel la chevelure est comprimée contre l'organe d'application (26),
comportant notamment un commutateur, un interrupteur à lame souple ou un capteur optique,
inductif ou capacitif, l'organe de détection étant de préférence disposé dans le logement
(38).
14. Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans lequel au moins
l'un des bras (5 ; 6), de préférence chaque bras (5 ; 6) est muni d'une plaque chauffée
(15 ; 16) destinée à venir en contact avec une mèche de cheveux à traiter, dans la
position fermée du dispositif.
15. Procédé de traitement des cheveux à l'aide d'un dispositif selon l'une quelconque
des revendications précédentes, dans lequel les bras du dispositif sont fermés autour
d'une mèche de cheveux et ledit dispositif est déplacé le long de la mèche de cheveux
afin d'exposer cette dernière aux étapes successives consistant à :
appliquer le produit cosmétique en comprimant la mèche de cheveux contre l'organe
d'application (26) par l'élément presseur (21),
facultativement, appliquer de la vapeur sur la mèche de cheveux, et
lisser les cheveux en chauffant la mèche de cheveux en contact avec la plaque chauffée
(15 ; 16), notamment en la faisant passer entre deux plaques chauffées (15, 16) opposées.