CORDLESS HAIRDRYER WITH MOVABLE BAFFLE

Abstract

A cordless hairdryer is provided and includes a moveable or pivotable flow regulating member disposed within a housing and in fluid communication with combustion gases generated by at least one burners. The flow regulating member can be a pivotable baffle, such as a baffle having a butterfly type construction, having a pair of vanes that are pivotable relative to one another between a first position in which a first angle θ1 is formed between the vanes and a second position in which a second angle θ2 is formed between the vanes. The position of the vanes varies the heat level of the gases discharged through an end nozzle of the housing such that in the second position, the heat level of the gases is cooler than when the vanes are in the first position. A switch assembly that provides multiple operating modes and an ignitor for combusting a supplied gas is provided.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims the benefit of U.S. patent application Ser. Nos. 60/717,575, filed Sep. 14, 2005; 60/752,115, filed Dec. 19, 2005; and 60/764,991, filed Feb. 2, 2006, all of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to cordless hairdryers, and more particularly, relates to a cordless hairdryer that includes a rechargeable battery that supplies power to a motor that operates a fan and also includes a gas canister that supplies gas to a catalyst to cause flameless combustion and the generation of heat, the level of which is controlled by a movable or pivotable baffle.

BACKGROUND

Cordless hairdryers are attractive for a number of reasons; however, getting a commercial product to market has been difficult to say the least due to a number of difficulties and complexities associated with designing such a product. One of the difficulties is that the conventional battery power source often times is ineffective and the flameless generation equipment is also difficult to operate.

One attempt to provide a cordless hairdryer is disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/861,252, filed Jun. 4, 2004, and published as publication No. 2004/0216322, published on Nov. 4, 2004, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. While this cordless hairdryer is satisfactory in some applications, it suffers from a number of disadvantages. In particular, the hairdryer includes a battery that powers a motor and a fan, as well as a burner that encloses at its open end a catalyst. A combustible gas supply is in fluid communication with the burner. A first coned baffle is provided to deflect combusted gas exiting the burner so as to mix with air after flowing around the burner.

In order to control the fuel supply from the gas supply, a solenoid valve is provided and an electronic valve control circuit for regulating the heat level of the burner. In particular, the solenoid valve (gas shut-off valve) provides regulation of the heat level using for example pulse width modulation of the on/off period of the solenoid valve. This arrangement involves a fairly complex electronic arrangement of electronic valve control in order to regulate the heat valve. As a result, the overall hairdryer device must be supplied with this type of electronics and electronic based valves must be designed into the system. Thus, the design and incorporation of the electronic circuit in the hairdryer complicates matters and simply is a complicated means for controlling and regulating the heat level of the discharged gas.

As a result, there is a perceived need for a cordless hairdryer that offers a simpler means for regulating the heat level of the discharged gas, while still offering satisfactory battery and heating performance.

SUMMARY

According to one aspect of the present invention, a cordless hairdryer is provided and includes a moveable or pivotable flow regulating member (fluid director) disposed within a housing and in fluid communication with combustion gases generated by at least one burner. The flow regulating member can be a pivotable baffle, such as a baffle having a butterfly type construction, having a pair of vanes that are pivotable relative to one another between a first position in which a first angle θ1 is formed between the vanes and a second position in which a second angle θ2 is formed between the vanes. The position of the vanes varies the heat level of the gases discharged through an end nozzle of the housing such that in the second position, the heat level of the gases is cooler than when the vanes are in the first position. A switch assembly that provides multiple operating modes and an ignitor for combusting a supplied gas is provided.

In more particular aspects, a baffle as described can be arranged for slidable movement toward or away from the point of combustion, or for pivotal or rotational movement so as to change the orientation of one surface thereof relative to the point of combustion. Further, the baffle can be arranged for movement downstream of the combustion yet in the path of the combusted gas so as to absorb and radiate at least a portion of the heat from the combusted gas.

Other features and advantages of the present invention will be apparent from the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING FIGURES

The foregoing and other features of the present invention will be more readily apparent from the following detailed description and drawings figures of illustrative embodiments of the invention in which:

FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of the main components of a cordless hairdryer according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is cross-sectional view of the hairdryer of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the main components of the hairdryer of FIG. 1 showing the arrangement of a gas canister and battery pack in relation to the other components, including the burner;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the cordless hairdryer of FIG. 1 in an assembled state showing the arrangement of the baffle guide and complementary guide slot;

FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of the main components of a cordless hairdryer according to a second embodiment of the present invention showing a primary baffle in a first position;

FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of the cordless hairdryer of FIG. 5 showing the primary baffle in a second position;

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the cordless hairdryer of FIG. 5 showing the primary baffle in the first position;

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the cordless hairdryer of FIG. 6 showing the primary baffle in the second position;

FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view of the main components of a cordless hairdryer according to a third embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the cordless hairdryer of FIG. 9 showing the primary baffle in the first position;

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the cordless hairdryer of FIG. 9 showing the primary baffle in the second position;

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a cordless hairdryer according to a fourth embodiment;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of one end of a housing for containing a burner assembly;

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the other end of the housing for the burner assembly;

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a first half of a handle assembly of the hairdryer of FIG. 14;

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a second half of the handle assembly;

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the second half of the handle assembly with additional components being shown.

FIG. 18 is a close-up perspective view of a portion of the second half of the handle assembly showing a cam operated switch mechanism in a first position;

FIG. 19 is a close-up perspective view of a portion of the second half of the handle assembly showing the cam operated switch mechanism in a second position to cause activation of an ignitor;

FIG. 20 is a close-up perspective view of a switch member and cam members of the cam operated switch assembly; and

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of an alternative type switch member for use in a cam operated switch mechanism.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Referring now to FIGS. 1 and 2, a cordless hairdryer 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. The hairdryer 100 includes a housing 110 which is formed of two clamshell shaped halves 112, 114, a middle tubular shaped section 116 and an end nozzle 118. At the end that contains the clamshell halves 112, 114, a motor 120 is provided and disposed therebetween for driving a fan 122. The motor 120 thus is operatively attached to the fan 122 to provide controlled operation thereof. The fan 122 draws air axially through an end aperture which can be in the form of a slotted opening or grill so as to prevent object, such as fingers and hair from accidentally entering the aperture and contacting the rotating fan 122. The fan 122 expels air radially, but the clamshells 112, 114 are preferably shaped so that air exiting the fan 122 is deflected longitudinally into the tubular section 116 of the housing 110. The arrangement therefore provides a tubular-like flow of air through an air passage 124 defined by the housing 110. The motor 120 itself serves to define an annular start 125 of the air passage 124.

A cross element 130 is disposed at the entrance to the tubular section 116 of the housing 110 and is securely attached thereto using any number of conventional techniques, including the use of fasteners, e.g., screws, to secure the cross element 130 in place. The cross element 130 is configured to complement and attach to one or more burners 133 that are used to heat the stored gas. In particular, the cross element 130 can include two threaded bores 132, one above the other, and into each of these is screwed one burner 133. The cross element serves to locate the burners within the tubular section 116 while not presenting a significant obstruction to the flow of air in the air passage 124.

In the illustrated embodiment, each burner 133 includes a brass collar 135 screwed into the threaded bore 132 and each burner 133 is provided with a gas terminal 134. A gas conduit (not shown) from a gas supply (not shown) via a trigger or other supply control mechanism (not shown) is connectable to the terminal 134. The terminal 134 is provided with a narrow bore that opens into the interior of the collar 135, jetting gas therein. A neck 140 is screwed into the collar 135. Inside the neck 140 is disposed a plug 142 of porous metal that serves to regulate gas flow through the burner 133. On exit from the plug 142, gas flows along a bore 144 of the neck 140 where it mixes with air drawn in through a cross bore/port 146.

Air is drawn into the port 146 by virtue of the low pressure in the bore 144 caused by the high velocity gas flow therein and controlled by the plug 142. A stoichiometric volume of gas and air therefore flows along the neck 140 and enters sleeve 150. Finally, in a broad section of the sleeve 150 is disposed a coiled catalytic wire, coated with platinum (not shown), where the combustible gas mix combusts in the absence of a flame.

The combusted gases exit the burners 133 and impinge on a primary baffle 160 to be deflected radially outwardly so as to mix with the tubular air flow caused by the fan 122. The operation of the primary baffle 160 is described below.

A second baffle 170 is provided around the sleeves 150 of the respective burners 133 to further define the tubular flow by defining annular space 126 of the air passage 124. The second baffle 170 prevents the air flow from directly contacting the burners 133 in the region of the cups of the burners 133 where the catalyst is disposed. This ensures that the catalyst remains at the requisite temperature to guarantee complete combustion of the combustible gas. As shown, the baffle 170 is mounted on one of several fins 171 of each burner 133, especially that one closest to the burner cup.

The fins 171, which also extend to the neck 140, serve to shed heat developed in the burner cup and conducted along the material of the burner 133. This heat is shed by both convection with the surrounding air flow, as well as by radiation. This also defines the tubular air passage by annular space 127. The baffle 170 is held against the cross element 130 by the burners 133 passing through apertures (not shown) in the baffle 170. The baffle 170 guards the ports, and prevents air flow, driven by the fan 122, from drawing gas out of the ports. Instead, stagnant air behind the baffle 170 is at a relatively high pressure compared with the gas flowing through the bore 144 of the neck 140 of the burners 133.

The primary baffle 160 is constructed according to the present invention for directing the flow of the combusted gases exiting the burners 133 so as to mix with the tubular air flow caused by the fan 122. In other words, there are two different flow paths which can be thought of as a first gas flow path that is defined by the heated gas and a second gas flow path defined by the cooler gas, with the baffle 160 serving to entrain the cooler gas with the heated gas.

In accordance with the present invention, the primary baffle 160 is mounted in the housing 110 in a movable and preferably slidable manner such that the position of the baffle 160 relative to the nozzle end 118 and the burners 133 can be varied by the operator in a simple and quick manner. In particular, the baffle 160 is mounted within the housing 110 between the nozzle end 118 and the burners 133 and includes a feature 180 that is easily accessible by the operator from the exterior of the housing 110 to cause the position of the baffle 160 to be changed. In other words, the operator manipulates the feature 180, which can be in the form of a guide lever or slide that extends through a longitudinal slot 200 (see FIG. 4) formed in one side of the housing 110, to cause longitudinal movement of the baffle 160 in a direction either towards the end nozzle 118 or towards the burners 133.

In the illustrated embodiment, the baffle 160 is at least positionable between a first position where the baffle 160 is closer to the end nozzle 118 and a second position where the baffle 160 is closer to the burners 133. In the first position, the baffle 160 is furthest away from the combusted heated gas and therefore, this represents a minimum heat level of the burners 133 since it results in more mixing between the cooler gas generated by the fan 122 and the heated gas, thereby resulting in cooler gas being discharged through the end nozzle 118. Conversely, when the baffle 160 is in the second position, this represents a maximum heat level of the burners 133 since it results in less mixing between the cooler gas and the heated gas, thereby resulting in warmer gas being discharged through the end nozzle 118.

The baffle 160 in the illustrated embodiment can thus be thought of as a mechanical slide that can be used to easily regulate the heat level in a much simpler manner than the previously described electronic valve system found in the prior art. As shown in FIG. 4, locking features 210, such as one or more locking detents, can be provided along the longitudinal guide slot 200 of the housing so as to locate and lock the baffle guide feature 180 at various locations along its permitted longitudinal travel within the guide slot or the like. This can therefore be configured to provide not only maximum and minimum heat levels but also an intermediate heat level when the baffle 160 is located in a third position between the first and second positions.

In other embodiments, a movable, primary baffle 160 as described above can be arranged for movement other than linear (e.g., slideable) movement toward or away from the point of combustion. By way of example and not limitation, the primary baffle can be mounted for pivotal or rotational movement. Such mounting permits the orientation of at least one surface of the baffle to be changed relative to the point of combustion. Thus, the baffle can be arranged for any of the foregoing movements between various locations that are downstream of the combustion, so as to be disposed in the path of the combusted gas to promote mixing and/or turbulence. The material of the primary baffle can be selected to be one that absorbs and radiates at least a portion of the heat from the combusted gas, if desired. A ceramic material, for example, can be used to absorb and radiate heat.

It will be appreciated that the cordless hairdryer 100 does not require a number of complex valves but instead can operate with a single on/off gas valve (gas shut-off) that controls the flow of the gas from the gas supply to the burners 133 and in particular, when this valve is open, gas freely flows to the burners, while when the valve is closed, gas is prevented from flowing to the burners 133. In other words, the plug 142 can regulate gas flow in a simple on/off toggle manner by either opening the valve or closing it. The overall movement of the baffle 160 and the dimensions of the valve and hence the rate of gas flow from the gas supply (e.g., a replaceable canister) are selected or established with respect to one another so as to achieve a range of temperatures between the first and second positions as desired.

The operator of the hairdryer 100 simply needs to ignite the gas as described in the '322 publication, while setting the baffle 160 to the desired location depending upon whether the operator wishes for maximum heated gas to be discharged or cooler gas to be discharged, or a gas heated to a level between these two values. The movement of the baffle 160 does not regulate the gas flow to the burners 133 since the burners 133 run on a single gas flow from the gas supply and only under action of a simple on/off valve as described above.

The cordless hairdryer 100 of the present invention permits a single air flow to be acted upon by the burners 133 and the movable nature of the baffle 160 permits multiple temperatures and settings to be easily achieved and realized by simply moving (e.g., sliding) the baffle 160 along and within the guide slot formed in the housing 110 from one position to another location such as in either a direction away from the burners 133 to decrease the temperature level or in a direction toward the burners 133 to increase the temperature level.

There can be two burners 133, each expelling hot exhaust gases against the baffle 160. The baffle 160 can have a ridge 162 aligned with the line joining the longitudinal axes of each burner. Most of the outflow from each burner is shed to one side or the other of the ridge 162. However, a hip 164 can be formed on the baffle 160 at either end of the ridge 162. Gases exiting a sector of each burner 133 remote from the other burner 133 are thus deflected at right angles to the ridge-deflected gases. This spreads the infiltration of the hot gasses into the air flow, so that more effective mixing occurs with less likelihood of hot spots occurring. The baffle 160 can be terminated by a blunt end 166, so that airflow around it is turbulent, further enhancing gas mixing and temperature stabilization.

Now referring to FIGS. 5-8 in which a cordless dryer 300 according to another embodiment is illustrated. The dryer 300 is similar to the dryer 100 shown in FIG. 1 with the exception that the dryer 300 does not include the primary baffle 160 but instead includes a primary baffle 310 that is of a different construction and operates in a different manner.

More specifically, the primary baffle 310 is of a butterfly type and in particular, generally resembles a butterfly valve that can be opened and closed or otherwise manipulated by the operator, whereby the level of combusted gases exiting the burners 133 so as to mix with the tubular air flow caused by the fan 122. In other words, while the primary baffle 160 moves axially within the housing and along the longitudinal length of the hairdryer 100, the baffle 310 operates differently.

Unlike the primary baffle 160 that is shown in FIG. 1 that is of a slidable or movable type, the primary baffle 310 is of a stationary mounted type in that the entire baffle assembly is not designed to move axially along the length of the housing; but rather, the baffle 310 has a pivotable butterfly type construction that is generally mounted in one location along the length of the housing of the hairdryer 100. The baffle 310 includes a body 311, such as a disk, which turns on a diametrical axis (defined by controller 340) inside a structure (e.g., the tubular housing of the device 100). In yet another type of butterfly construction, illustrated in FIG. 9, the baffle 310 includes first and second vanes 320, 330 with its pivot axes at right angles to the direction of flow in the housing 110. As is known, butterfly valves and the like are designed to control the flow of gas or liquid by means of a disk, which turns on a diametrical axis inside a structure (e.g., the tubular housing) or by two semicircular plates (vanes 320, 330) hinged on a common spindle (controller 340), which permits flow in only one direction, as shown with reference to FIGS. 9-11 and described below.

In the illustrated embodiment, the controller 340 is provided for controlling movement of the baffle 310. The controller 340 is preferably of a rotatable type that has a portion, such as a knob, that is accessible to the user, and can be manipulated by rotating the controller 340 which is in the form of an elongated structure 342, such as a rod, that is operably coupled to the pivotable (butterfly) type baffle 310 and at one end contains a knob 344 that assists the user in turning (rotating) the rod 342.

In order to properly deflect the gases in a manner similar to the primary baffle 160 of FIG. 1, the disk 311 can be constructed so that the surface or face thereof that faces the burners 133 is contoured (e.g., convex shape) to encourage the gas to flow radially outward toward the walls of the housing and then into the end nozzle 118. Similarly, in the embodiment of FIGS. 9-11, each of the vanes 320,330 can be constructed so that the surface or face thereof that faces the burners 133 is contoured (e.g., convex shape) to encourage the gas to flow radially outward toward the walls of the housing and then into the end nozzle 118.

The single disk body 311 is thus pivotable about an axis that contains the elongated structure 342. By manipulating (turning) the elongated rod 342, the relative location of the disk body 311 within the housing 110 can be altered and this will directly influence the flow of the combusted gases exiting the burners 133 and lead to different types of mixing with the other gases. The end result is that the air that is emitted from the hairdryer 300 has a variable temperature as by rotating the rod 342 to cause changes in the position of the disk body of the butterfly controller relative to the wall of the passageway that it is located in and which carries the combusted and other gases.

In this manner, the more that the disk body 311 is in a perpendicular orientation relative to the wall of the housing 110 as illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 7, the more obstruction with the combusted gases and therefore, the flow path of the combusted gases to the nozzle 118 is made more torturous as shown in FIG. 7. This results in more mixing between the combusted gases and the cooler gas resulting in a cooler air mixture being discharged from the hairdryer 100. Conversely, if the disk body 311 is rotated such that the body 311 is placed more parallel to the wall of the housing along the longitudinal axis of the device 100 as illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 8, there is less mixing between the combusted gases and the cooler gases due to the combusted gases having a more direct flow path to the nozzle 118.

The knob 344 of the controller 340 for the disk body 311 embodiment can include indicia or the housing can contain indicia that assists and instructs the user the direction to turn the knob to result in either cooler or hotter air being discharged from the hairdryer 100.

In the vane embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 9-11, FIGS. 9 and 10 show the vanes 320, 330 of the primary baffle 310′ in a first position where the vanes 320, 330 are in a first position with a first angle θ1 being formed between the vanes 320, 330, while FIG. 7 is a schematic view of the primary baffle 310 in a second position where the vanes 320, 330 are in a second position with a second angle θ2 being formed between the vanes 320, 330. The angle θ2 is less than the angle θ1, meaning the vanes 320, 330 are pivoted closer to one another in the second position and therefore, the vanes 320, 330 have less influence on the flow path of the combusted gas than in the first position where the vanes 320, 330 are spread further apart from one another and thereby, the surfaces of the vanes 320, 330 contact and deflect the combusted gas outwardly toward the wall of the housing 110. As shown in FIG. 10, the more the vanes 320, 330 are spread apart, the more mixing of the air and the cooler the air discharged and conversely, the less the vanes 320, 330 are spread apart, the less mixing and the hotter the air that is discharged.

It will be understood that when the user moves the knob 344 to rotate the rod 342, the vanes 320, 330 pivot in a corresponding direction, thereby influencing the flow path of the combusted gas. The housing 110 can have indicia printed thereon that assists the user in rotating the knob 344 in the right direction so as to move the vanes 320, 330 in the right direction (e.g., in a direction such that the vanes move toward one another or away from one another). For example, the knob 344 can contain a printed arrow that shows the direction to rotate to increase the heat of the emitted air or conversely, the direction to rotate to decrease the heat of the emitted air.

It will be appreciated that there are a number of intermediate positions for both the disk body 311 and the vanes 320, 330 which will result in “warm” air being discharged as opposed to when either the disk body 311 or the vanes 320, 330 are placed in one of their ends of travel (e.g., coolest position or hottest position).

A butterfly type controller thus provides a simple yet effective way to change how the combusted hot gases are mixed with the other cooler gases to thereby directly affect the temperature of the gases that are discharged through nozzle 118.

Now referring to FIGS. 12-21 in which a cordless hairdryer 400 according to one embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. The hairdryer 400 includes a housing 410 which is formed of two clamshell shaped halves 412, 414 that mate together to define an interior compartment 420 that houses a number of the operating components of the hairdryer 400, including a motor 120 and fan 122 (FIG. 1) as well as one or more burners (heaters). The two halves 412, 414 also receive a structure 450 for holding a power supply, such as batteries. The structure (battery cradle) 450 is enclosed by a removable cover 454 which seats over the batteries, while permitting a user to easily remove or insert the batteries into the cradle 450.

The hairdryer 400 has a number of components that are similar or identical to the hairdryer 100 and therefore, like elements have been numbered alike. For example, the motor 120 and fan 122 are provided for drawing air axially through an end aperture that can be in the form of a slotted opening or grill as shown, with the fan 122 and motor 120 being disposed at one end (proximal end) of the housing 410.

The hairdryer 400 also includes a handle 500 that is pivotable mounted to the housing 410 to permit the user to adjust the angle of the handle 500 relative to the housing 410. The pivoting action of the handle 500 also permits the handle 500 to be stowed in a closed position where the handle 500 and housing 410 are parallel to one another.

Similar to the housing 410, the handle 500 is formed of a housing 510 that is defined by first and second halves 512, 514 that are constructed to mate with another and be secured to one another. The two halves 512, 514 define an interior compartment that houses a number of operating components of the hairdryer 400 and in particular, the handle 500 houses activation and control components of the hairdryer 400.

Each of the first and second halves 512, 514 is generally in the form of a semicircular member (generally U-shaped) that includes a hollow interior compartment 515, 517, respectively. The first half 512 has a closed first end 516 and an open second end 518 and a pair of opposing side walls 520, 521. The closed first end 516 has an arcuate end wall 522 that extends between the side walls 520, 521 to close off the first end 516. The side wall 520 includes a feature to receive a slidable switch or actuator 530 and more specifically, the side wall 520 has an indented side wall portion 522 that also is defined by a floor 524, as well as two end walls 525, 526 that limit the travel of the switch 530.

The first half 512 also includes a pair of hollow bosses or protrusions 540, 542 that protrude outwardly from the floor of the first half 512 and are located proximate the side wall 520. The first half 512 also includes a first cradle 544 and a second cradle structure 546. The first cradle 544 has a semicircular shape and extends between and is attached to the side walls 520, 521. The first cradle 544 also defines a channel (semicircular) 549 that is formed between two parallel, spaced arcuate walls. The first cradle 544 is located closer to the open second end 518. The second cradle structure 546 is defined by a pair of upstanding posts 548 that are spaced apart from one another and a smaller center post 550 that is disposed between the posts 548 and includes an arcuate upper edge so as to receive and cradle a circular shaped member placed thereon.

An opening 541 is formed through the floor of the first half 512 near the closed first end 512 for receiving a pivot pin that permits the handle 500 to pivot relative to housing 410 and also provides a means for securely attaching the handle 500 to the housing 410 as described below.

Preferably, the first half 512 and the second half 514 and the features thereof are formed as a unitary, integral plastic piece.

The second half 514 has a shape that is complementary to the shape of the first half 512 to permit the two to mate together. Similar to the first half 512, the second half 514 has a number of upstanding integral structures formed as a part thereof. The second half 514 has a similar shape in that it includes a closed first end 560 and an opposing second open end 562 and is defined by a pair of side walls 564, 565 that define a floor and the closed first end 560 has an arcuate end wall 563 that extends between the side walls 564, 565 to close off the first end 516. The entire second half 514 has a semicircular shape (generally U-shaped) and the side walls 564, 565 define the hollow interior compartment 517.

When the two halves 512, 514 are mated together, the closed first ends 516, 560, respectively, and the open second ends 518, 562, respectively, are joined together. Similarly, the side walls 520, 564 and side walls 521, 565 are mated together. The side wall 564 includes a feature to receive the slidable switch 530, with the feature being formed along the side wall 564 so that the similar feature formed as a part of the wall 520 is axially aligned when the two walls 520, 564 mate together. More specifically, the side wall 564 has an indented side wall portion 566 that also is defined by a floor 561, as well as two end walls 568, 569 that limit the travel of the switch 530. In other words, the two indented portions define a slot or track for the switch 530 such that the switch 530 slides in a controlled, guided manner. The indented side wall portion 566 includes a cut out or window 567 formed therein, as well as a notch 570 that is formed in the indented side wall portion 566, within the window 567, to provide a lock mechanism as described below.

The upstanding integral features formed as part of the second half 514 include a first cradle 572 that is similar to and complementary to the first cradle 544 of the first half 512 such that when the two halves 512, 514 mate together, the two cradles 544, 572 are substantially axially aligned with one another. The first cradle 572 has a semicircular shape and extends between and is attached to the side walls 564, 565. The first cradle 572 also defines a channel (semicircular) that is formed between two parallel, spaced arcuate walls.

The second half 514 has a first retaining feature 580 that is formed in the central portion of the second half 514 and is defined by a pair of upstanding spaced apart posts or fingers 582 that extending upwardly from the floor of the second half 514. A second retaining feature 581 is formed in the central portion of the second half 514 and is generally aligned with the first retaining feature 580 but is closer to the open second end. Like the first retaining feature 580, the second retaining feature 581 is defined by a pair of upstanding spaced apart posts or fingers 583 that extend upwardly from the floor of the second half 514. A third retaining feature 584 is formed along the side wall 565 and is defined by a pair of upstanding spaced apart posts or fingers 586. Opposite the third retaining feature 584 and facing the side wall 564, a fourth retaining feature 588 is formed and is defined by a pair of upstanding spaced apart posts or fingers 590 that extend upwardly from the floor, with the fingers 590 being proximate and adjacent the fingers 582, 583. In the illustrated embodiment, the distance between the posts 590 is less than the distance between the posts 586.

An opening 591 is formed through the floor of the second half 514 near the closed first end 560 for receiving the pivot pin that permits the handle 500 to pivot relative to housing 410, while securely attaching the handle 500 to the housing 410. The openings 541, 591 are thus axially aligned with one another. The second half 514 also includes another opening or slot 599 that receives electrical wires and the like as described below and permits these wires to be routed to the interior compartment of the housing 410.

In one embodiment, a gas conduit and valve assembly 600 are provided in the handle 500 as a means for heating turbulent air that is created by the fan 120 that is disposed in the housing 410. The assembly 600 includes a gas inlet port 610 that is formed as part of a body 612 that is in the form of a disc that has dimensions that permit it to be inserted into the channels formed as part of the cradles 544, 572, respectively, when the two halves 512, 514 are mated and secured to one another. The gas inlet port 610 is typically formed by a metal body that has a small channel formed therein to receive a combustible gas from a gas canister that is placed proximate the gas inlet port 610 and when the internal valve of the gas canister is opened. The gas inlet port 610 is fluidly and sealingly connected to a first gas conduit segment 620 (tubing) that extends from the gas inlet port 610 to a valve member 630 and is constructed to carry and route the gas from the gas canister to the valve member 630.

An underside of the body 612 includes a boss or the like that has internal threads for threadingly mating with complementary threads formed as part of the gas canister to allow the gas canister to be received into the interior compartment of the handle 500 and securely attached to the body 612 in such a manner that the gas contents of the canister can be delivered to the gas inlet port 610 and to the valve assembly 600.

For example, a gas canister 501 can include a depressible nipple that is in communication with the gas contents of the gas canister such that when the nipple is depressed, an internal valve of the gas canister is opened and gas is permitted to flow through the nipple to the exterior. When the gas canister is coupled to the valve assembly, the screwing of the gas canister into the threaded body 612, and in particular, the contact between the nipple and the inlet port 610, causes the nipple to depress and open the internal valve; however, the gas flowing through the nipple is discharged into the inlet port 610 and then into the valve member 630. When the gas canister is unscrewed, the nipple extends back to its rest position, thereby closing the internal valve and preventing gas from flowing out of the nipple.

The valve member 630 can be any number of different types of valves that can be selectively actuated to permit the combustible gas to flow from the gas canister to the housing 410 where it is ignited to generate heat as described below. In the illustrated embodiment, the valve member 630 is a one way valve or the like (e.g., butterfly or flapper valve, etc.) that includes a valve body 632 and a movable valve stem 634 that is slidingly received within the valve body 632 and is operatively coupled thereto such that when the valve stem 634 is moved to an extended position, the valve member 630 is in an open position, thereby permitting gas to flow from the canister and through the valve member 630 to the housing 410 by means of the gas conduit. In contrast, when the valve stem 634 is in a retracted position, the valve member 630 is in a closed position and gas is prevented from flowing through the valve member 630.

Accordingly, the valve stem 634 and valve body 632 contain a conduit, channel or flow passage formed therein to permit gas flow through the valve when it is in the open position. One end of the valve stem 634 that protrudes beyond the valve body 632 is in the form of a hollow tube or the like and is sealingly coupled to a second gas conduit segment 640 (tubing) that is routed up the handle 500 and through the slot 599 and then into the housing 410. A collar can be formed on the free end of the valve stem 634 to limit the travel of the second gas conduit segment 640.

The valve body 632 is a cylindrical body that is constructed to be cradled or frictionally held at one end between the pair of upstanding fingers 582 and at the other end by the upstanding fingers 583. For example, the valve body 632 can be frictionally held between the two pairs of fingers; however, it can be removed therefrom by force. The fingers 582, 583 do not interfere with the extension/retraction of the valve stem 634, which in the illustrated embodiment moves in a direction toward the closed first end of the handle.

The handle 500 also has a switch mechanism or assembly 650 that includes the slidable switch 530 as well as an electrical contact switch unit 660. The switch unit 660 is a simply structure that when activated results in the circuit of the fan being closed, thereby providing power to the fan for operation thereof. The unit 660 includes a body that has two electrical leads (wires) 662, 664 connected thereto and a movable flag, tang, or the like 666 that is attached at one end of the unit and is biased out from one side edge of the unit such that when a force is applied thereto, the tang 666 flexes inwardly toward the side edge of the unit which contains a depressible tab is part of the unit and is depressed when the tang 666 moves inwardly toward the unit. As the tab is depressed, it causes an electrical contact to complete the circuit between the two leads 662, 664 resulting in the fan being powered by the power supply.

The unit 660 is located in place within the interior compartment of the second half 514 by being placed on a pair of posts 670. In particular, the unit 660 includes a pair of through openings formed therethrough that receive the posts 670 so as to locate and hold the unit 660 in a desired place. The posts 670 are located near the side wall 564 proximate the end wall 569 of the indented portion, with the tang 666 being closer to and in facing relationship to the side wall 564.

The switch 530 is constructed to be slidably attached or coupled to the side wall 564 and received in the indented side wall portion 566 between the two end walls 568, 569. The switch 530 is formed of two portions 570, 580 that are connected by a bridge portion 590. The first portion 570 is in the form of an elongate body or structure that is designed to be received within the two indented portions and therefore be accessible by the user. It is thus, this switch 530 that the user contacts and slidingly pushes to operate the hairdryer 400 and place it into one of its operating modes. The first portion 570 preferably includes a central ridge 572 that assists the user in moving the button in either an up or down direction within the indented portions.

As illustrated, when the switch 530 is coupled to the second half 514, the first portion 570 lies on the outer face of the indented side wall portion 566, while the second portion 580 lies along the inner face of the indented side wall portion 566 and the bridge portion 590 is received within the window 567. The vertical end walls that define the ends of the window 567 thus determine and define the range of travel of the switch 530 since once the bridge portion 590 contacts one of the ends walls, the switch 530 is at one end of its travel.

The second portion 580 is in the form of a flexible, elongate wall that extends from the bridge portion 590 to one end of the first portion 570. The bridge portion 590 effectively spaces the first and second portions 570, 580 apart from one another so as to form a space therebetween that receives the indented side wall portion 566 so as to at least partially couple the switch 530 to the side wall.

The second portion 580 includes a number of integral features that are designed to interact with the switch unit 660 to cause activation thereof and selective closure of the circuit. In particular, the second portion 580 includes a first tab or protrusion 592 that extends outwardly from the second portion 580 at the end thereof that is attached to the bridge portion 590. The illustrated tab 592 is formed at a right angle to the second portion 580 and can have a ramped surface. Since the button 530 and the parts thereof are preferably formed as unitary, integral plastic piece, as by a molding operation, the tab 592 can be an integral part of the bridge portion 590. The second portion 580 also has a pair of ramp structures 594, 596 that are formed proximate or at the end of the second portion 580 that is opposite the bridge portion 590. It will be appreciated that the ramp structures 594, 596 act as cam members and therefore, can be formed in any number of different shapes so long as they protrude from the second portion 580. Further, a flexible tab or flag 598 is formed as part of the second portion 580 along one edge thereof such that the flexible flag 598 is inserted first into the second half 514 when coupling the switch 530 to the side wall. The flag 598 has a bent or angled section 599 that protrudes outwardly away from the second portion 580.

When the switch 530 is inserted into the second half 514 such that the indented side wall portion 566 is received in the space between the first and second portions 570, 580, the flag 598 is disposed adjacent the flexible tang 666, with the angled section 599 being initially placed at the end of the unit 660 where the tang 666 is attached. In the initial “off” position of the hairdryer 400, the angled section 599 is not in contact with the tang 666 or at least does not supply a sufficient force against the tang 666 to cause sufficient movement of the depressible tab of the unit 660 to close the circuit. In this position, the ramp structure 596 is positioned above and adjacent the tang 666 so to contain and guide the movement thereof, especially when the tang 666 flexes inwardly. In this “off” position, the bridge portion 590 is positioned adjacent one end of the window 567. It will be appreciated and described in greater detail below that as the user moves (slides) the switch 530 along the indented side wall portion 566, the angled section 599 engages the tang 666 and as the switch 530 rides along the indented side wall portion 566, the angled section 599 causes inward flexing of the tang 666 toward the unit 660 resulting in the depressible tab being pressed in to cause a closure of the circuit, thereby supplying power to the fan.

The handle 500 also includes either a mechanical or electro-mechanical mechanism 700 that causes the selective opening and closing of the valve member 630 as a result of movement of the switch 530. More specifically, the mechanism 700 couples the switch 530 to the valve assembly 600. According to a first embodiment and as illustrated in FIGS. 12-21, the mechanism 700 is an electro-mechanical mechanism and includes a first cam part 710, a second cam part 730, and an actuator 750. The first cam part 710 includes a base 712 that has an upstanding post or pin 715 (e.g., metal post) that is attached thereto and extends outwardly therefrom (e.g., at a right angle). The base 712 is constructed to sit on top of the unit 660 and includes a pair of openings 714 to receive the posts 670 so as to properly position and hold the base 712 in place. The base 712 also preferably includes an additional locating and retention member in the form of a pair of notches 716 formed therein along one edge. A pair of prongs 718 are formed as part of the second half 514 and integrally extend upwardly from the floor. The prongs 718 are sized to be received within the notches 716 in a lock and key type arrangement so as to further prevent movement of the base 712. The first cam part 710 also includes an arm 720 that has a body 721 with an opening formed therethrough to receive the post 715 and permit the arm 720 to freely rotate about the post 715. The arm 720 has an elongate section 723 that extends from the body 721 and can have a bent end portion. As described below, the elongate section 723 is designed to be disposed over the tang 666 and adjacent the indented side wall. The elongate section 723 also has a pair of upstanding pins 725 formed thereon and extending outwardly therefrom in opposite directions.

The base 712 and the arm 720 are typically formed of a plastic material except for the metal post 715.

The second cam part 730 includes a base section 732 that has a post or pin 734 that is attached to the base section 732 and is coupled to the floor of the second half 514 such that the base section 732 pivots about the post 734. The base section 732 is typically formed of a plastic material and has a rectangular shape in one embodiment. The base section 732 includes a first flange 735 that extends outwardly from one side edge thereof and a second flange 736 that extends outwardly from another side edge thereof. The axes containing the first and second flanges 735, 736 generally intersect at a right angle. Each of the first and second flanges 735, 736 is in the form of a claw structure defined by two opposing fingers with a space (notch) formed therebetween. The first and second flanges 735, 736 can be formed integral with the base section 732 and be of the same material or can be formed of a different material. For example and according to one embodiment, the first flange 735 is formed of a metal material, while the second flange 736 is formed of the same plastic material as the base section 732. The first flange 735 is located along the upper portion of the base section 732, while the second flange 736 is located at a lower portion of the base section 732.

The second flange 736 engages the valve member 630 and in particular, the valve stem 634 is disposed within the notch formed in the second flange 736 (the claw structure of the flange effectively captures the valve stem) at a location between the collar formed on the valve stem 634 and the valve body 632 that has greater dimensions (e.g., diameter) than the valve stem 634. It will therefore be appreciated that as the base section 732 pivots about the post 734, the second flange 736 pivots in a direction away from the valve body 632 and since the second flange 736 grasps and engages the valve stem 634, this movement of the second flange 736 causes the valve stem 634 to extend and the valve to open. Conversely, as the base section 732 and the second flange 736 pivots in the opposite direction, the valve stem 634 retracts and the valve closes.

In the instance where the cam mechanism is not a purely mechanical mechanism but includes an electromechanical aspect, the actuator 750 is provided and can be in the form of a solenoid. As is well know, a solenoid is a loop of wire, often wrapped around a metallic core, which produces a magnetic field when an electrical current is passed through it. Solenoids are important because they can create controlled magnetic fields and can be used as electromagnets. If a metal rod is placed partly inside a solenoid and the current turned on, the rod will be drawn into solenoid by the resulting magnetic field. This motion can be used to actuate another component or to cause another component to move, such as the cam surfaces.

In the illustrated embodiment, the actuator 750 includes a body 752 and a movable rod 754 that in its rest position is in an extended position relative to the body 752. Conversely, once the actuator 750 is actuated and energized, the rod 754 is in its retracted position.

The first flange 734 engages the rod 754 which is received in the notch thereof, with the first flange 734 being held between two locating members that are associated with the rod 754 so that the pivoting of the base section 732 in either direction is directly transferred into either retraction or extension of the rod 754.

The body 752 is held within the second half 514 by means of the third and fourth retaining features 584, 588 and in particular, the body 752 is held frictionally between the fingers 586 and the fingers 590. In this position, the body 752 extends transversely across the second half 514, with the valve member 630 lying underneath the body 752.

In the rest position, where the rod 754 is in the extended position, the arm 720 is disposed between the end of the rod 754 and the indented side wall. The elongate section 723 of the arm 720 is bent near the body 721, with the two pins 725 being formed at this bend. The pins 725 are designed so that the one pin 725 rests against one end of the upper ramp structure 594, while the other pin 725 rests on the lower ramp structure 596. As the switch 530 slides from the “off” position toward the “on” position, the ramp structures 594, 596 contact the pins 725 which begin to ride up the ramped structures and this is translated into the pivoting of the arm 720 in a clockwise direction such that the end of the arm 720 contacts the end of the rod 754 and further movement of the switch 530 causes further pivoting of the arm 720 causing the rod 754 to retract. This motion is generally illustrated in FIGS. 18 and 19.

At the same time, since the first flange 734 engages and is coupled to the rod 754, the retraction of the rod 754 causes the pivoting (counter-clockwise) of the second cam member 730 and this results in the counter-clockwise pivoting of the second flange 736. Since the second flange 736 engages the valve member 630 and in particular, the valve stem 634, the pivoting of the second flange 736 causes either the extension or retraction of the valve stem 634 and the opening and closing, respectively, of the valve member 630.

The actuator 750 is designed according to one operating embodiment, such that the fan circuit is closed either just prior to or simultaneously with the retraction of the rod 754. In addition, once the rod 754 retracts, a control signal is sent to a controller or processor, such as a printed circuit board in the housing 410, indicating that the switch 530 has been moved and the fan's circuit is closed and that the actuator 750 is to be energized. The actuator 750 is connected to the power supply and the PCB by means of electrical leads so that it can be it can be selectively energized. Once the actuator 750 is energized, the rod 754 remains in the retracted position regardless of whether the cam members 710, 730 apply a force against the rod 754 to cause it to remain in the retracted position.

In fact and according to one embodiment, the ramp structures 594, 596 have semi-circular shapes defined by an up slope and down slope, with the pins 725 initially riding up slope and then once the apex is reached, the pins 725 quickly slide down slope resulting in the opposite movements of the cam members. This results in the arm 720 disengaging from contact with the end of the rod 754.

At this point in time, the valve member 630 can be opened and held in the open position by the actuator 750 being energized; however, the user needs to take an initial step in order to cause heat to be generated in the housing 410 for heating the air blown by the fan. More specifically, the user must slide the switch 530 one more position to a firing position (FIG. 19) which causes an ignition assembly 800 to fire and cause ignition of the gas delivered from the canister to the housing 410. The ignition assembly 800 includes an igniter or starter that uses piezoelectricity to generate a spark to cause ignition of the combustible gas in a burner chamber of housing 410. As is known, certain crystalline materials (like quartz, Rochelle salt and some ceramics) have piezoelectric behavior. When you apply pressure to them, you get a charge separation within the crystal and a voltage across the crystal that is sometimes extremely high. For example, in a grill starter, the popping noise you hear is a little spring-loaded hammer hitting a crystal and generating thousands of volts across the faces of the crystal.

The ignition assembly 800 has an igniter 810 that has a switch component or starter that is disposed in the handle 500 adjacent the side wall 564 of the second half 514. The igniter 810 has a depressible button 812 that causes piezoelectricity to be generated as described above when the button 812 is pressed (e.g., as by a spring-loaded element hitting a crystal) and the generated voltage is carried by an electrical lead 820 (which is routed through the slot 599) to the burner or combustion chamber in the housing 410 where a spark is generated in the vicinity of a gas outlet resulting in ignition of the gas as it flows out of the gas outlet.

In the first switch position where the fan is turned on and the valve member 630 is initially in the open position, the first tab 592 that extends outwardly from the second portion 580 of the switch 530 is positioned adjacent the button 812. Thus, when the switch 530 is moved to the firing position, the first tab 592 engages and depresses the button 812 so as to cause activation of the igniter 810. Similar to a gas BBQ grill, once the button 812 is depressed, a click is heard (the spring-loaded element hitting the crystal) and then when the switch 530 is released, the button 812 returns to the extended position and the switch 530 return to the “on” position where the fan is operating; however, now the flowing gas is ignited for heating the air that is blown by the fan. Once the switch 530 returns to the “on” position from the ignition position, the pins 725 remain against the down sloped portions of the ramp structures 594, 596.

The controller of the hairdryer 400 can be configured so that once the circuit of the fan is open, the actuator 750 is automatically de-energized to ensure that the rod 754 returns to the retracted position and as a result, the second cam part 730 pivots and the valve stem returns to the retracted position, thereby closing the valve member 630. Thus, once the switch 530 is placed into the “off” position, the tang 666 flexes outwardly and the tab releases to cause a break in the fan circuit. When the fan is not operating, the valve member 630 should not be open.

Further, the processor of the hairdryer 400 can be configured so that the initial movement of the switch 530 and the initial mechanical retraction of the rod 754 causes an initial opening of the valve member 630; however, if the user does not activate the ignition assembly 800 within a predetermined period of time, then the solenoid actuator 750 is de-energized, thereby causing the retraction of the rod 754 and as a result, the second cam part 730 pivots and the valve stem returns to the retracted position, thereby closing the valve member 630. Since in the “on” position with the fan running, the arm 720 is not engaging the rod 754 to cause the retraction of the rod 754, the valve member 630 can be closed without interfering with the fan's operation.

In yet another aspect, the hairdryer 400 includes a temperature sensor that is operatively connected to the processor (PCB) and is disposed in the housing 410 and is constructed to sense the temperature in the combustion chamber where the combustible gas is ignited by the ignition assembly 800. The sensor acts as an over temperature sensor in that once the sensor detects that the temperature reaches a threshold temperature, an alert signal is delivered to the processor which is configured to then send a control signal to the actuator 750 to de-energize the actuator 750 and therefore, at least temporarily restrict the flow of gas to the burner due to the valve member 630 being selectively closed. Once, the temperature drops below the threshold (trigger) temperature, the actuator 750 is re-energized, thereby causing the valve member 630 to reopen and permit gas flow to the combustion chamber. Since the burner element may retain heat, the delivery of gas to the burner element can result in re-ignition of the combustible gas.

A lamp or indicator light can be provided to signal the user that the igniter assembly 800 needs to be activated again to cause re-ignition of the combustible gas. For example, the lamp can be lit continuously or it can be intermittingly lit so as to provide a blinking light to remind the user to actuate the ignition assembly 800.

It will therefore be appreciated that the hairdryer 400 can be constructed so that it can change its operating state for safety reasons without mechanical manipulation by the user. In other words, the electromechanical actuator 750 in combination with the processor (PCB) of the hairdryer 400 are designed in one operating mode to cause the selective, intermittent operation of the actuator 750 when there are safety concerns, such as overheating, so as to restrict or limit the amount of combustible gas that is delivered to the combustion chamber.

It will also be understood that in accordance with the embodiment of FIGS. 12-21, the burner assembly in the combustion chamber can take any number of different forms. In one embodiment, a burner assembly 900 is provided in the housing 410. The illustrated burner assembly 900 includes its own housing or sheath 910 that contains the burner components as a bundle or group separate from the fan 122 and motor 120. The housing 910 is in the form of a tubular plastic piece that is disposed within the two halves of the housing 410, with the power supply unit being disposed underneath and against the housing 910. In addition, the processor (PCB) 930 is disposed adjacent the power supply unit, partially underneath the housing 910 and the motor 120 and fan 122.

Inside the protective housing 910 is a gas outlet member 940 that is defined by a body that is attached to the sides of the housing 910 and includes a gas outlet port with a fitting that attaches to the end of the second gas conduit segment to ensure delivery of the combustible gas through the gas outlet member 940, which can be in the form of a pinhole sized port, that produces a stream or plume of combustible gas and directs it axially within the housing 910. In close proximity to the gas outlet port is the electrical lead that is part of the igniter assembly 800 and that delivers a spark to the area near the gas outlet port. The end of the electrical lead can be attached to the housing 910 or extend through a small hole therein to permit it to be securely held in this location.

In addition, it will be appreciated that in another embodiment, the actuator assembly 750 itself can be programmed so that it is intermittently operated to result in the intermittent opening and closing of the valve member 630. In this manner, the burner will not operate at maximum temperature since gas is not continuously delivered but rather an intermediate mode or heat level is achieved. In other words, the heat level of the hairdryer 400 and the number of different heat settings can be configured around the operating conditions of the actuator 750. By controlling when the actuator 750 is energized, different heat settings for the hairdryer 400 can be achieved. Thus, a cool mode where the air is only partially heated can be provided by altering the operating states of the actuator 750 since this will directly result in an opening and closing of the valve member 630 due to the actuator 750 being directly linked to the valve member 630 through the pivotable cam member.

In terms of safety features, the hairdryer can include a number of safety features some of which have been previously discussed. For example, the temperature of several locations within the housing 410 can be monitored and remedial action can be taken if the temperature exceeds a threshold. A first sensor 1000, such as a thermistor/thermocouple, can be disposed on the exterior of the housing 910 and can be in the form of a pair of electrical leads that run the length of the housing 910 to the processor (PCB 930) to measure a temperature change in this area of the housing 410. If this sensor 1000 detects a sudden temperature change, remedial action is taken, such as closing the valve member 630 to prevent gas flow and/or shutting off power to the fan 122 to prevent the motor 120 from burning out.

Additional sensors can be disposed within the housing 910 to monitor temperature changes. For example, a thermocouple element or the like 1010 (FIG. 13) can be disposed near the end of the housing 910 which is adjacent the discharge opening of the housing 410 for discharging the heated air and thus, this particular sensor detects the air temperature right before it contacts the person. If the thermocouple at this location senses that the temperature of the heated air is too hot, then the a signal is sent to the processor instructing that the burner assembly turn off as by causing the actuator 750 to de-energize which results in the valve member 630 closing and gas is prevented from flowing to the burner (this results in the burner being taken off line) until the operating conditions are within acceptable limits. In addition, another sensor 1020 (FIG. 14), such as a thermocouple or the like, can be disposed in the burner assembly near the gas outlet port to monitor the temperature in this combustion chamber. This sensor is primarily for detecting whether the ignition of the gas and the burning thereof are within acceptable conditions. For example, if an explosion where to happen or if too much gas is ignited, then the sensor would detect that excessive heat is being generated in the combustion chamber. Suitable remedial actions include de-energizing the actuator 750 so as to cause the valve member 630 to shut, as well as optionally shutting off the fan 122.

It will further be appreciated that the hairdryer 400 can include the means illustrated in FIGS. 1-11 for controllably varying the heat of the discharged air. In other words, a movable baffle, butterfly baffle, etc., can be incorporated into the housing 410 in an area between the burner assembly and the end of the housing 410 where the heated air is discharged. Thus, the user can be provided with a mechanical manner of altering the temperature of the heated air in addition to the electro-mechanical means (altering the state of actuator 750) that can be provided as described above. By permitting the user to simply press or slide a button or lever to cause the more or less heated air to be discharged (as by altering the heated air flow path within the housing 410), a simple yet effective method of providing a variety of heating modes or operating positions or states is provided. Accordingly, any of the mechanisms shown in FIGS. 1-11 for changing the discharged air temperature can be incorporated into the hairdryer 400 of FIGS. 12-21 and more particularly, into the housing 410 thereof.

A lock mechanism is provided for preventing movement of the switch 530 and includes the notch 570 as well as a movable lock member 1100 that is accessible through the handle 500 as by providing a button portion that can be slid by the user in a groove. As the lock member 1100 is slid in the groove, one end of the member 1100 rides into the notch 570 as shown in FIG. 20 and creates interference for the switch 530 and prevent the sliding movement of the switch 530.

It will also be appreciated that the switch 530 can be part of a multi-position switch mechanism where the user can move between various different positions, including one which is a cool (fan only) mode and one or more hot modes (heater on). The processor can be configured so that if the user, after turning the device 400 on, does not activate the igniter 810 with a prescribed time period, the processor instructs the actuator 750 to close the valve member 630 and just run in cool mode (fan only). The processor can also be configured so that it knows the current position of the switch 530 and is the user moves from the hot mode to the cool mode, the processor detects this change and instructs the actuator 750 to close the valve member 630 and just run in cool mode (fan only). In this manner, the movement of the switch 530 from a hot switch position to a cool switch position is detected and the gas flow is prevented.

FIG. 21 illustrates another switch 1200 and cam mechanism that can be used to cause the opening and closing of the valve member 630. This mechanism is purely a mechanical mechanism as opposed to the electromechanical mechanism of FIGS. 12-21 and therefore, it does not contain the actuator 750.

In this embodiment, the switch 1200 is modified so that the second portion 1210 thereof contains not only the flag 598 for contacting the tang 666 but also contains an integral ramp structure 1220 for engaging the arm 720. The ramp structure 1220 is different than the previous embodiment since it includes an incline portion 1230 that leads up to a plateau 1240 but does not include a decline portion. The switch 1200 also includes the first portion 570 and bridge 590 which can be same as in the earlier embodiments.

It will be appreciated that as the switch 1200 is slid, the flag 598 still causes the tang 666 to flex inward and close the circuit of the fan and the pin 725 engages the incline portion 1230 that causes the clockwise pivoting of a cam member, such as cam member 710, to cause the a portion thereof, such as elongate arm section 723, to contact a second cam member, such as cam 730, that is operatively coupled to the valve member 630 to cause the opening and closing of the valve stem 634. For example, the sliding motion of the switch 1200 is transferred into pivoting of the first cam part 720.

Since the pin 725 rides up along the incline portion 1230 and onto the plateau 1240 where it remains, the cam members 710, 730 are held in their engaged position, with the valve stem 634 being in the extended position such that the valve member 630 is opened. The switch 1200 remains in this position even when it is further slid to activate the igniter 810.

It will be understood that other purely mechanical mechanisms can be used for activating the valve member 630 in response to movement of the switch 530 or some other type of button or the like. Other safety features, such as a shut-off valve, can be incorporated into the design at other locations so that if a prescribed event or condition is detected, such as a high temperature condition or failure of the fan or igniter, etc., or when the user changes the mode of operation of the device from a heated mode to a cool mode.

While exemplary drawings and specific embodiments of the present invention have been described and illustrated, it is to be understood that the scope of the present invention is not to be limited to the particular embodiments discussed. Thus, the embodiments shall be regarded as illustrative rather than restrictive, and it should be understood that variations may be made in those embodiments by workers skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the present invention as set forth in the claims that follow, and equivalents thereof. In addition, the features of the different claims set forth below may be combined in various ways in further accordance with the present invention.

Claims

1. A cordless hairdryer having a movable flow regulating element disposed within a housing and in fluid communication with combustion gases generated by at least one burner, the flow regulator element being movable between a first position in which the combustion gases contact the flow regulating element in a first way to produce a first heat level and a second position in which the combustion gases contact the flow regulating element in a second way to produce a second heat level which is different than the first heat level to permit the heat level of the gases discharged through an end nozzle of the housing to be varied.

2. The hairdryer of claim 1, further including a switch assembly for selectively controlling a flow of a stored gas to the at least one burner for combustion thereof and for selecting an operating mode for the hairdryer.

3. The hairdryer of claim 2, wherein the switch assembly includes an actuator and valve member for selectively controlling release of the stored gas to the at least one burner such that in a first position, the stored gas is released at a first flow rate and in a second position, the stored gas is prevented from flowing to the at least one burner.

4. The hairdryer of claim 3, wherein the actuator is positionable in a third position where the stored gas is released at a second flow rate that is less than the first flow rate.

5. The hairdryer of claim 3, wherein the actuator comprises an electromechanical mechanism that causes the selective opening and closing of the valve member as a result of movement of the switch assembly.

6. The hairdryer of claim 5, wherein the electromechanical mechanism comprises a solenoid that is actuatable to cause the valve member to assume the first position, thereby permitting flow of the stored gas to the at least one burner.

7. The hairdryer of claim 3, wherein the switch assembly includes a cam member that is operably coupled to the valve member and the actuator and a switch member that is movable into a plurality of positions to cause the hairdryer to assume one of a plurality of operating modes, respectively.

8. The hairdryer of claim 7, wherein the switch assembly is located within a handle assembly and the switch member is accessible and movable by a user so as to cause pivoting of the cam member within the handle assembly which results in activation of the actuator.

9. The hairdryer of claim 8, further including an ignitor for selectively igniting the stored gas at a location of the at least one burner.

10. The hairdryer of claim 9, wherein the ignitor is separately activated by a control switch that is different from the switch member, the control switch being accessible by the user.

11. The hairdryer of claim 3, further including a controller that is operably connected to the actuator, wherein under preselect conditions, the controller sends a control signal to the actuator to cause the actuator to be in an activated position.

12. The hairdryer of claim 11, wherein the preselect conditions comprise a firing of an ignitor within a predetermined time period, the ignitor for selecting igniting the stored gas.

13. The hairdryer of claim 7, wherein movement of the switch member between an off position and a first position causes the switch member to engage the cam member causing pivoting thereof and engagement of the actuator.

14. The hairdryer of claim 7, wherein the actuator is in the form of a solenoid that is operatively connected to the cam member and is positionable between a first position and a second position, wherein in the first position, the cam member is placed in a pivoted position to cause opening of the valve member and in the second position, the cam member returns to an initial rest position resulting in closing of the valve member.

15. The hairdryer of claim 3, wherein the cam member has a first portion that is operatively coupled to the valve member and a second portion that is operatively coupled to the actuator.

16. The hairdryer of claim 7, wherein the switch member has a first feature that engages a complementary second feature that is formed as part of the cam member such that controlled movement of the switch member along a predetermined path causes the first feature to engage the second feature to cause pivoting of the cam member.

17. The hairdryer of claim 11, wherein the controller is programmed so that if the ignitor is not activated within a predetermined time period after the actuator has been activated and the valve member opened, the controller sends a control signal to the actuator that results in the valve member closing.

18. The hairdryer of claim 1, further including at least one sensor at a first location and in communication with the controller such that if a prescribed event is sensed, a control signal is sent to the controller to cause a shut down of the hairdryer.

19. The hairdryer of claim 18, wherein one prescribed event is when a sensed temperature exceeds a threshold temperature.

20. The hairdryer of claim 18, wherein the first location is a location proximate the at least one burner.

21. The hairdryer of claim 18, wherein the first location is a location proximate an open end of a body of the hairdryer where the heated gas is discharged.

22. The hairdryer of claim 1, wherein the flow regulating element comprises a baffle that is movable in an axial direction along a length of the housing, wherein in the first position, the baffle is closer to the at least one burner and in the second position, the baffle is further from the at least one burner such that the heat level of the gas being discharged is less in the second position.

23. The hairdryer of claim 22, wherein the baffle is accessible through the housing to permit a user to axially move the baffle, wherein the housing includes locking features along an axial guide path formed in the housing to permit the baffle to be locked in the first position and the second position.

24. The hairdryer of claim 23, wherein the baffle can be placed into one or more intermediate positions that produce intermediate heat levels, respectively, for the discharged gas, the heat level depending upon the distance between the baffle and the at least one burner.

25. The hairdryer of claim 1, wherein the flow regulating element comprises a baffle rotatable about an axis to alter a surface area of the baffle that is fluidly contacted by the combusted gas, wherein as the surface area increases, the heat level of the combusted gas decreases.

26. The hairdryer of claim 2, wherein the switch assembly is operably coupled to an ignitor that is operably coupled to the at least one burner with gas from a disposable gas canister being delivered to the at least one burner, the ignitor being selective activated to cause ignition of the gas at the at least one burner.

27. The hairdryer of claim 3, wherein the actuator is operatively connected to a controller that is configured so that it can be programmed so that the actuator is intermittently operated to result in the intermittent opening and closing of the valve member to provide an intermediate heat level to be achieved.

28. The hairdryer of claim 27, wherein the actuator comprises a solenoid and the control panel is configured to control when the actuator is energized, resulting in different heat settings for the hairdryer to be provided.

29. A cordless hairdryer having a pivotable flow regulating element disposed within a housing and in fluid communication with combustion gases generated by at least one burner, the flow regulating element having a pair of vanes that are pivotable relative to one another between a first position in which a first angle θ1 is formed between the vanes and a second position in which a second angle θ2 is formed between the vanes, the position of the vanes varying the heat level of the gases discharged through an end nozzle of the housing such that in the second position, the heat level of the gases is cooler than when the vanes are in the first position.

30. The cordless hairdryer of claim 29, wherein the pivotable baffle is of a butterfly type construction.

31. A cordless hairdryer having a pivotable member that is disposed within a housing and in fluid communication with combustion gases generated by at least one burner, the pivotable member having a body having a heat contacting surface, the body being pivotable about an axis that is rotatably mounted to the housing in a fixed location, wherein pivoting of the body changes the position of the heat contacting surface relative to the at least one burner, thereby varying the heat level of the gases discharged through an end nozzle of the housing.