HAIRSTYLING APPARATUSES AND RELATED METHODS

Abstract

A hairstyling apparatus is described. It includes a barrel with a hairstyling surface and a central axis, the barrel has a first end and a second end. A heating element heats the hairstyling surface. An arm having a comb feature and a toggle is attached near the barrel first end and wherein the arm is repositionable with respect to the hairstyling surface. Adjustment of the arm changes an amount of contact between the comb feature and the hairstyling surface of the barrel.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

This disclosure generally relates to hair styling devices and, more specifically, to hair curling apparatuses and related methods.

2. Background of the Invention

Heated styling irons (e.g., curling irons) are used to form a wide variety of hairstyles, such as curling hair to impart a curl that does not naturally occur or straightening hair to remove a kink or curl. For example, circular or semicircular-shaped curls can be created by wrapping hair around the outer surface of a heated cylindrically shaped curling iron.

Conventional curling irons include a cylindrical curling surface along with a clamping member that fits about a portion of the surface. During use, the curling barrel can be heated. A mass of hair is clamped against the surface by the clamping member and wrapped around the curling barrel by rotating the curling iron either manually by hand or mechanically by a motor in the curling iron. Heat applied to the surface can alter the texture of the hair so as to curl it. After a predetermined amount of time, the clamping member is disengaged from the surface, and the curled hair is released. A disadvantage of such prior art clamping configurations includes excessive heating of hair due to prolonged tight contact between the hair and the heating surface. The prior art clamping configurations can also bunch up the hair, even though it was likely combed before the curling iron was applied. They can also cause the hair to clump up or be tangled at the lower end of the curling barrel, causing locks of hair to fall below the heated curling barrel during use and be prevented from being wrapped around the curling barrel.

Existing curling devices lack features that prevent hair from overheating and prevent damage to hair. Existing curling devices also lack mechanisms to prevent locks of hair from falling below the curling barrel or tangling at the point the clamp joins the main body of the device.

A need exists in the art for a system that can simplify hair curling. A need also exists for a system and method to create more naturally and evenly curled hair. The system and method should allow for simultaneous hair curling and combing in a single-handed operation and prevent hair snagging, which frequently occurs with prior art systems.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

An object of the present invention is to provide a hairstyling device and method for curling hair that overcomes the drawbacks of state-of-the-art.

Another object of the invention is to provide a hairstyling device and method for simultaneously curling and combing hair. A feature of the invention is that a comb feature is defined in the arm of the hair styling surface. As such, the heated barrel of the device assists in combing the hair while the arm directs the hair towards and around the heated barrel. An advantage of the invention is that hair may be curled and combed simultaneously and with one-handed operation. Another advantage is that previously combed hair is not overly manipulated by a tight clamp used to direct hair.

Still another object of the invention is to provide a hairstyling device that operates more efficiently. A feature of the invention is that comb teeth extend towards the heated barrel while hair is directed to and around the heated barrel. An advantage of the invention is that the comb feature styles the hair at the same time that the hair is warmed by the heated barrel.

Still another object of the invention is to provide a device that does not overheat the hair. A feature of the invention is that the arm with a comb feature also includes a lengthwise aperture, where the arm can be angled in relation to the heated barrel so as to create a space between the arm and the heated barrel, which prevents the overheating of the hair. A benefit of the invention is that hair may be styled without being exposed to excessive heat from prolonged and tight contact with the heated barrel.

An object of the invention is to provide a multi-functional hairstyling device. Features of the invention, in one embodiment, include an innovative arm structure with guide supports that prevent the hair from being tangled around the base of the heated barrel or falling below the heated barrel while simultaneously combing the hair. A benefit of the invention is that it can direct hair towards and around the heated barrel without using excessive force or exposing the hair to prolonged contact with the heated surfaces. In some embodiments, the arm is replaceable, depending on the style of hair desired to be achieved. A further benefit of the arm structure is to facilitate styling of short hair and increasing the appearance of hair root volume. The arm structure also facilitates convenient curl styling of short to medium, including from various angles (such as vertical to horizontal). The hair may be styled using single-handed use.

Briefly, a hairstyling apparatus is provided, including: a barrel defining a hairstyling surface and a central axis, wherein the barrel has a first end and a second end; a heating element in thermal communication with the hairstyling surface; and an arm having a comb feature and a toggle; wherein the arm is attached near the barrel first end and wherein the arm is repositionable with respect to the hairstyling surface, creating variable amount of contact between the comb feature and the hairstyling surface of the barrel.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention, together with the above and other objects and advantages, will be best understood from the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment of the invention shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 depicts an embodiment of a hairstyling device, during use, pursuant to one embodiment of the invention;

FIGS. 2A-2D depict various views of the hairstyling device pursuant to one embodiment of the invention;

FIGS. 3A-3C depict the opening and closing of one embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 3D depicts a movement limiter in one embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 4 depicts one set of alternative components for use with a hairstyling device;

FIG. 5 depicts a second set of alternative components for use with a hairstyling device;

FIG. 6 depicts a further set of alternative components for use with a hairstyling device;

FIG. 7 depicts an alternative embodiment of a hairstyling device;

FIGS. 8A-8D depict an alternative embodiment of components for a hairstyling device;

FIGS. 9A and 9B depict exemplary embodiments of hairstyling devices;

FIGS. 10A to 10C depict steps of use of one embodiment of the hairstyling device;

FIGS. 11A to 11C depict steps of a different use scenario; and

FIGS. 12A and 12B depict additional uses of embodiments of the hairstyling devices.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description of certain embodiments of the present invention, will be better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings.

As used herein, an element or step recited in the singular and proceeded with the word “a” or “an” should be understood as not excluding plural said elements or steps unless such exclusion is explicitly stated. Furthermore, references to “one embodiment” of the present invention are not intended to be interpreted as excluding the existence of additional embodiments incorporating the recited features. Moreover, unless explicitly stated to the contrary, embodiments “comprising” or “having” an element or a plurality of elements having a particular property may include additional such elements not having that property.

The invention provides hair-curling devices, which include a rotating member configured to wrap hair around a generally stationary heated barrel. Other embodiments of the invention include the use of a rotating heated barrel.

Turning to FIG. 1, depicted therein is a hairstyling apparatus or device 10, having a hair contact feature 13. The feature comprises an arm 12 with a lengthwise aperture 16 with a comb feature 18, and a toggle 11. As will be explained below, in use, hair passes between the arm 12 and a heated barrel 14. The heated barrel 14 is warmed by a heating element within the interior of the heated barrel 14, not visible in the figure, in one embodiment. The heating element is in thermal communication with the hairstyling surface of the heated barrel 14. Arm 12 can comprise the same heat-conductive material as the heated barrel 14 or comprise an insulating material, such as a heat-resistant plastic or polymer. As described herein, components comprising the hair contact feature 13, such as the arm 12 or the comb feature 18, are user-removable and can be replaced by alternative arms, depending on the application. As shown in FIG. 1, the heated barrel 14 includes a central axis 17. The arm 12 repositions with respect to the heated barrel 14 hairstyling surface and the central axis 17.

The guide supports 20 extend at an angle to the sides of the arm 12. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the guide supports 20 extend and in one embodiment are substantially perpendicularly to the sides of the arm 12. The guide supports 20 direct the hair away from the toggle 11, thereby preventing the hair from being caught by the toggle 11. The guide supports 20 instead direct the hair towards the heated barrel 14. As can be appreciated from the figures, the guide supports 20 can prevent hair from sagging away from the heated barrel 14 into areas where the hair can be tangled.

A lengthwise aperture 16 is defined in the arm 12. The lengthwise aperture 16 features an oblong, oval shape with longer sides 26 that correspond to the length of the arm 12. In the depicted embodiment, the longer sides 26 are substantially straight. A comb feature 18 is attached to each of the longer sides 26, in one embodiment. The comb feature 18 is adapted to arrange hair as it passes under the arm 12. The lengthwise aperture 16 comprises a significant portion of the surface area of the arm 12. In one embodiment, the aperture 16 comprises approximately 70% of the surface area of the arm 12. A benefit of the aperture 16 is that while the user's hair is passing under the arm 12, the comb feature 18 arranges the hair while the heated barrel 14 transfers heat to the hair to impart a curl. A benefit of this arrangement is that the hair is distributed evenly by the comb feature 18 while the hair is curled.

A benefit of the combination of the aperture 16, the guide supports 20, and the comb feature 18 is that the hair is not exposed to the heated barrel 14 longer than necessary and the hair does not become tangled after being treated by the heated barrel. They also prevent the hair from sagging away from the heated barrel 14.

FIG. 2A depicts the details of the comb feature 18 and the heated barrel 14. The comb feature 18 comprises a comb insert 22, which spans the length of the lengthwise aperture 16, in the depicted embodiment. The heated barrel 14 includes a first end 14a where the arm 12 is attached and a second end 14b, which is free. In one embodiment, the first end 14a is the proximal end closest to the end-user, while the second end 14b is the distal end away from the end-user.

The comb insert 22 includes a crossbar 23 and comb teeth 24. The comb teeth 24 extend away from the crossbar 23 at an angle. In some embodiments, the comb teeth 24 are also curved and feature a variety of orientations. As can be appreciated from FIG. 2A, the lengths of the individual teeth of the comb teeth 24 may vary. Additional embodiments of the comb insert 22 are discussed below. However, in some embodiments, the lengths of the comb teeth 24 are substantially equal, but the distance between the comb teeth 24 and the heated barrel varies, as the arm is separated from the heated barrel by a gap, except at the tip 44 (shown in FIG. 3C) of the arm 12 that touches the heated barrel 14. The details of the gap are discussed below.

While the lengths of the individual comb teeth vary, the length of the comb teeth 24 is selected so that the comb insert 22 does not contact the surface of the heated barrel 14, even when the arm (depicted in FIG. 1) is closed. This prevents the tips of the comb teeth 24 from wearing down or melting as the hairstyling tool is used.

In one embodiment, the length of the comb teeth 24 may be different from each other in order to prevent the tip of the comb teeth 24 from wearing down as the hairstyling tool is used. In such an embodiment, some of the comb teeth contact the barrel; not all of the comb teeth wear out from repeated contact, but only those comb teeth that actually contact the heated barrel will wear out.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2B, the length of the comb teeth 24a at both ends of the comb insert 22 may be formed more extended than the length of the relatively short comb teeth 24b. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2B, the comb teeth 24a are 150% of the length of the short comb teeth 24b. When the arm (visible in FIG. 1) is closed, of the comb insert 22, only comb teeth 24a, not comb teeth 24b, may contact the heated barrel 14.

A comb insert 22 having comb teeth 24 as described herein include a number of advantages. First, the damage to the comb elements and the heated barrel will be minimal because only some or none of the comb elements are in contact with the heated barrel. Second, the tangling of the hair may be minimal because of the space or gap between the comb insert 22 and the heated barrel, which is caused by relatively short comb teeth, such as the shorter comb teeth 24b in FIG. 2B.

In some embodiments, the comb feature 18 or an individual comb insert 22 is removable from the arm 12.

As shown in FIG. 2C, the comb feature 18 may be attached to the edge of the lengthwise aperture 16 using a side of the comb feature 18. In another embodiment, the comb feature 18 may be attached to the inner side of the arm 12. The comb feature 18 may be integrally along the edge of the lengthwise aperture 16. In another embodiment, the comb feature 18 may be formed in such a way that the entire lengthwise aperture 16 is covered with the comb feature 18. Such an arrangement is found in a fusion hairbrush. (In which case, there would be no lengthwise aperture 16 in the arm 12.)

In at least one embodiment, the comb feature 18 in the arm 12 is user-replaceable.

In one embodiment, while the arm 12 comprises a heat-conductive material, such as a metal, the comb teeth comprise a material with a much lower heat conductivity, such as a plastic.

FIG. 2D is another view of an embodiment of the arm 12. Depicted in FIG. 2D is a side view of the comb feature 18 installed on both sides of the lengthwise aperture 16. As can be appreciated from the view of FIG. 2D, the comb feature 18 comb teeth that extend beyond the plane formed by the arm 12, as the arm 12 curves around the heated barrel (not shown in FIG. 2D).

FIGS. 3A and 3B show the operation of the toggle 11, in one embodiment. Pressing the toggle 11 results in the arm 12 changing position with respect to the heated barrel 14 at arm pivot points 32, opening the arm 12 away from the heated barrel 14 by angle α. The angle of separation a can be controlled by varying the pressure applied to the toggle 11. In one embodiment, the angle of separation is determined by the amount of hair that will have to come in contact with the heated barrel 14. As shown in FIGS. 3A and 3C, when the arm 12 is in a closed configuration, there is a gap 15 between the arm 12 and the heated barrel 14 in the general shape of a triangle. The gap 15 is the widest at the toggle 11 and gradually narrows toward the tip 44 of the arm 12, which is in contact with the heated barrel 14. In some embodiments, the toggle 11 allows a user to define the arm's closed configuration (e.g., a closed configuration where the tip 44 is spaced apart from the surface of the heated barrel 14). Yet in other embodiments, the toggle 11 can allow a user to define the gap's 15 width at the toggle 11 (e.g., the toggle can be configured so that the gap 15 is wider or narrower). In the open configuration of FIG. 3B, the arm 12 is separated from the heated barrel 14, but the guide supports 20 do not cease to contact the heated barrel 14. In this way, the guide supports 20 will prevent hair from reaching the toggle 11. The angle of separation a can be controlled by the user by controlling the amount of pressure applied to the toggle 11. The angle of separation a can be mechanically controlled, such as by a lever.

As can be appreciated from FIGS. 3A and 3B, the toggle 11 and the arm 12 move in conjunction with each other, but in opposite directions. Therefore, when a force is applied to the toggle 11, the arm 12 will swing outwards. To return to the closed configuration shown in FIG. 3A, a user simply releases the force applied to the toggle 11, causing the arm 12 to go back to a closed state of FIG. 3A. The toggle 11 can also be configured so that a user can manually manipulate the toggle 11 in the opposite direction to achieve the closed configuration of FIG. 3A. As explained above and visible in FIG. 3C, a gap 15 exists between the arm 12 and the heated barrel 14, even when the arm 12 is in a closed configuration that results in the arm 12 being the closest to the heated barrel 14. The gap 15 ranges from a few millimeters to a few centimeters. A benefit of the gap 15 is that hair is not ever pressed down too tightly against the heated barrel 14 during use, which also prevents damage to a user's hair that can be caused by tightly pressing down the hair on a heated surface. One benefit of this gap 15 is that hair is curled more naturally and efficiently as it is not completely flattened and pressed down and flattened.

As visible in FIG. 3A, the heated barrel 14 includes an insulating tip 28. In one embodiment, the insulating tip 28 comprises the same plastic material as the comb feature 18 and likewise has lower heat conductivity. In other embodiments, the heated barrel 14 insulating tip 28 comprises a different plastic insulating material.

In one embodiment, the heated barrel 14 rotates with the arm 12 during use and when the heating element is engaged. In another embodiment, the arm 12 rotates while the heated barrel 14 is stationary, or the heated barrel 14 and the arm 12 with the guide supports 20 rotate together. The heated barrel 14 and the arm 12 with the guide supports 20 rotate together in the same direction in some embodiments.

Finally, in yet another embodiment, the arm 12 rotates in a first direction while the heated barrel 14 rotates in a second direction which is opposite from the first direction. As shown in FIG. 3C, to facilitate rotation, a rotation ring 40 receives the arm 12. The rotation ring 40 is mechanically engaged to a motor inside of the handle. The same motor can engage with the heated barrel 14 in case of a rotating heated barrel. The gap 15 between the arm 12 and the barrel 14 is largest towards to the toggle 11 or the guide supports 20 and then tapers off towards the tip 44 of the arm 12, in some embodiments the tip 44 is rounded.

In one embodiment, the pivot points 32 use a permanent movable attachment means, such as a rivet or a screw. In other embodiments, the pivot points 32 comprise a removable mount, such as indentations defined in the sides of the toggle 11. The indentations are received by corresponding depressions in the side of the hairstyling device 10. In other embodiments, the pivot points 32 include magnetic elements to help in keeping the pivot points 32 secure on the sides of the hairstyling device 10.

As shown in FIG. 3D, the toggle 11 includes a movement limiter, shown as a thumbscrew 31. The thumbscrew 31 is received by a plate (not visible) which limits the freedom of movement for the toggle 11 and therefore change the movement of the arm 12. By locking the thumbscrew 31, the user can customize the position of the arm 12 in the open and closed positions. By varying the gap and the amount that the arm opens and closes will allow the end user to handle varying amounts of hair with the device.

In another embodiment, not shown, the movement limiter comprises multiple alternative pivot points 32 defined in the sides of the hairstyling device 10. By positioning the arm 12 in a different pivot point, the end user can ensure that a larger gap is maintained between the heated barrel and the arm 12.

In most embodiments, the pivot points 32 allow for pivoting but nonetheless allow for removal of the arm 12. This allows for replacement of the comb feature 18, replacement of the arm 12, or both. The alternative embodiments are described below.

FIG. 4 depicts a variety of replacement arms 12. The replacement arms include a variety of shapes for the lengthwise apertures, as well as different configurations of the comb feature 18. For example, the comb feature 18 may include a dense configuration of combs for more delicate hair, or sparse comb teeth for denser hair which is harder to manipulate.

Each alternative replacement arm 12 is installed on a metal toggle (not shown), and each replacement arm 12 includes guide supports 20. While the length and width of each arm 12 may vary, each is compatible with the same heated barrel (not shown). In the embodiments shown in FIG. 4, each features a plurality of mounting openings 34 to connect the alternative arm 12 to the toggle (not shown). Also included for installation purposes is the arm snap-on channel 36, which is defined by two opposing walls extending from the arm 12.

FIG. 5 also shows alternative configurations for the replaceable arm 12. While in FIG. 4, each arm 12 was substantially the same shape and the tips of each arm were substantially rounded, in FIG. 5, the arms 12 include a variety of shapes. Further, while at least one arm 12 in FIG. 5 includes the lengthwise aperture 16, others do not.

FIG. 6 depicts embodiments of replaceable arms 12, which include secondary materials, such as a metallic tip 42. In some alternatives, the arm includes an additional plastic element 44 to modify the heat conductivity of the arm 12. For example, the additional plastic element 44 can be used to add an area of higher heat conductivity. In some embodiments, the additional plastic element 44 includes a heat-sensitive dye to change color when the arm 12 heats up.

Tabbed Hairstyling Device with Arm

FIG. 7 depicts a tabbed hair styling device 50. The tabbed hairstyling device 50 includes a repositionable arm 52 connected to a rotating member 54 at a pivot point 64. The rotating member 54 includes multiple fixed tabs 55. The repositionable arm 52 includes a toggle 56 and a comb feature 58. As shown in FIG. 7, the comb feature 58 comprises a number of protruding teeth 60 and a flexible fin 62. As shown in FIG. 7, the protruding teeth 60 are of varying lengths depending on their location on the repositionable arm 52.

The repositionable arm 52 pivots around a pivot point 64. In one embodiment, the repositionable arm 52 can be locked into more than configuration, separating the repositionable arm 52 from the heated barrel 66 by variable amounts. In another embodiment, the repositionable arm 52 has only two positions—open and closed and is shown in the closed position in FIG. 7.

The fixed tabs 55 extend away from the rotating member 54 and are in a fixed position with respect to the surface of the heated barrel 66. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 7, the fixed tabs 55 are integrally molded in the rotating member 54. In other embodiments, not shown, the fixed tabs 55 are replaceable and can be changed by the end-user of the device.

In one embodiment, the rotating member 54 rotates in the same direction as the heated barrel 66, either with the same speed or a different speed, depending on the internal gear arrangement. In another embodiment, the rotating member 54 and the heated barrel 66 rotate in different directions.

A benefit of the tabbed hairstyling device 50 is that the repositionable arm 52 can be engaged to direct the hair, or it can be disengaged if the hair does not require additional directing towards the heated barrel 66. Where the repositionable arm 52 is disengaged or open, the hair is directed by the fixed tabs 55.

Another embodiment of the rotating member 74 is shown in FIG. 8A-8D. As shown in FIG. 8A, the rotating member 74 includes fixed tabs 75 and a replaceable repositionable arm 72. The replaceable repositionable arm 72 is shaped like a shark's fin with side panels 77 and a central bar 79. The structure of the repositionable arm 72 directs the hair and also allows the hair to exit the repositionable arm 72 when the rotating member 74 is rotated. A silicone brush (not visible in FIG. 8A) in the central bar 79 holds even small amounts of hair and winds the hair. Additional hairstyling tools such as combs 85 on the fixed tabs 75 have the effect of combing hair. FIGS. 8B and 8C depict alternative replaceable repositionable arms, such as a stub bristle brush arm 82 of FIG. 8B and a silicone brush arm 84 shown in FIG. 8C. The stub bristle brush arm 82 includes a matrix of stubs 83. The silicone brush arm 84 features a silicone brush 85 comprising bristles 86 and stubs 88 which are approximately one third the length of the bristles 86.

FIG. 8D depicts another embodiment of the rotating member 94 having a repositionable arm 92 and fixed tabs 95. Depicted in FIG. 8D are two fixed tabs 95 separated from the arm on the periphery of the rotating member 94. The repositionable arm 92 includes a tip having a streamlined contoured shape 93 with its toggle 91 at the opposite end of the streamlined contoured shaped tip 93. The repositionable arm 92 includes a silicone brush and comb 96. The silicone brush and comb 96 are located on a surface of the repositionable arm 92 which will direct the hair towards the heated hairstyling surface. The streamlined contoured shaped tip 93 is also adapted to direct the hair towards the interior surface of the repositionable arm 92. While the rotating member 94 in FIG. 8D includes two fixed tabs 95, in other embodiments, only a single fixed tab is used.

FIG. 9A shows an exemplary dual prong embodiment 101, the repositionable arm 102 has a length of 1″ and the rotating member 104 includes two prongs 106, although only one is visible in FIG. 9A. Both prongs are visible in the embodiment of the rotating member 94 shown in FIG. 8D. The dual prong embodiment 101 is suitable for one-handed use. FIG. 9B shows a single prong embodiment 105, the repositionable arm 112 has a length of 1.25″ and uses a single prong 116. The single prong embodiment 105 is better suited for short hair and for C-curl styling, but can also be used for one-handed styling.

FIGS. 10A to 10C show exemplary steps of use of an embodiment. Per FIG. 10A, first a quantity of hair is engaged by the repositionable arm. As shown in FIG. 10B, as the rotating member then initiates rotation in a direction depicted by arrow 120, hair moves around the heated barrel in the direction shown by arrow 122. FIG. 10B shows the orientation of the hair after one rotation of the rotating member. As shown in FIG. 10C, the hair under the arm wraps around, as shown in the detailed area highlighted by oval 124 after two rotations. The arm is adapted to be adjusted to direct the hair towards the hairstyling surface.

FIGS. 11A to 11C show steps in one-handed use. As shown in FIG. 11A, the hair is caught by the repositionable arm. As shown in FIG. 11B, the rotatable member then rotates and then the rotation continues while the curl is finished in FIG. 11C. FIG. 12A shows an embodiment being used to enhance root volume while FIG. 12B to create a “C” curl.

Although exemplary implementations of the invention have been depicted and described in detail herein, it will be apparent to those skilled in the relevant art that various modifications, additions, substitutions, and the like can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention and these are therefore considered to be within the scope of the invention as defined in the following claims.

It is to be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive. For example, the above-described embodiments (and/or aspects thereof) may be used in combination with each other. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the invention without departing from its scope. While the dimensions and types of materials described herein are intended to define the parameters of the invention, they are by no means limiting but are instead exemplary embodiments. Upon reviewing the above description, many other embodiments will be apparent to those of skill in the art. The scope of the invention should, therefore, be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. In the appended claims, the terms “including” and “in which” are used as the plain-English equivalents of the terms “comprising” and “wherein.” Moreover, in the following claims, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third,” are used merely as labels and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects. Further, the limitations of the following claims are not written in means-plus-function format and are not intended to be interpreted based on 35 U.S.C. § 112, sixth paragraph, unless and until such claim limitations expressly use the phrase “means for” followed by a statement of function void of further structure.

Claims

1. A hairstyling apparatus comprising:

a barrel defining a hairstyling surface and a central axis, wherein the barrel has a first end and a second end;

a heating element in thermal communication with the hairstyling surface; and

an arm having a comb feature and a toggle;

wherein the arm is attached near the barrel first end and wherein the arm is repositionable with respect to the hairstyling surface, creating variable amount of contact between the comb feature and the hairstyling surface of the barrel.

2. The hairstyling apparatus of claim 1, wherein the arm includes a lengthwise aperture.

3. The hairstyling apparatus of claim 2, wherein said lengthwise aperture includes a comb.

4. The hairstyling apparatus of claim 1, wherein said comb feature is integrally molded into the arm.

5. The hairstyling apparatus of claim 4, wherein the arm having the comb feature is replaceable.

6. The hairstyling apparatus of claim 1 further comprising:

a movement limiter which changes freedom of movement for position of the arm.

7. The hairstyling apparatus of claim 1 further comprising:

a rotating member having at least one fixed tab;

wherein said arm is also attached to the rotating member and pivots with respect to the heated barrel.

8. The hairstyling apparatus of claim 7 wherein said arm is removable.

9. The hairstyling apparatus of claim 7 wherein said arm further comprises a comb.

10. The hairstyling apparatus of claim 9 wherein said comb defined within the arm comprises silicon.

11. The hairstyling apparatus of claim 7 further comprising at least one fixed tab defined on the rotating member.

12. The hairstyling apparatus of claim 11 wherein said at least one fixed tab comprises two tabs separated from the arm on a periphery of the rotating member.

13. The hairstyling apparatus of claim 11 wherein said at least one fixed tab comprises two tabs.

14. The hairstyling apparatus of claim 1 wherein said arm comprises a contoured shaped tip on an end opposite of the toggle.

15. The hairstyling apparatus of claim 14 wherein said contoured shaped tip is adapted to direct hair towards an interior surface of the arm.

16. The hairstyling apparatus of claim 7 wherein the apparatus is adapted to engage a quantity of hair using the arm, initiate rotation of the rotating member thereby moving the hair around the hairstyling surface.

17. The hairstyling apparatus of claim 16 further comprising engaging the heating element to heat the hairstyling surface.

18. The hairstyling apparatus of claim 16 further comprising the arm being adapted to be adjusted to direct hair towards the hairstyling surface.

19. The hairstyling apparatus of claim 16 wherein hair wraps around the hairstyling surface.

20. The hairstyling apparatus of claim 19 wherein the apparatus is adapted to create a “C” curl.