APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR STYLING HAIR
A straightening device and a method for using a straightening device for treating coarse, thick, ethnic, or curly hair. The straightening device includes a first arm and a second arm pivotally coupled at proximal ends. The arms have opposing surfaces that may be heated or contain features that are specifically dimensioned and aligned.
This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/179,917, filed Mar. 7, 2023, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Any and all applications for which a foreign or domestic priority claim is identified in the Application Data Sheet as filed with the present application are hereby incorporated by reference under 37 CFR 1.57.
BACKGROUND Field of the DisclosureThe present application relates to hair devices in general, and more particularly, to methods, systems, and apparatuses for hair styling and/or straightening.
Description of the Related ArtA variety of devices are available for styling hair, such as curling irons, curlers, flat irons, hair straighteners, and blow dryers. Many of these devices function by incorporating an internal or external heating source for heating a surface of the device that contacts the hair to treat or style it. Other devices, such as blow dryers, heat and blow a stream of air onto the hair.
Thick, coarse, ethnic, curly, and/or kinky hair is particularly difficult to straighten properly with current designs of flat iron type straightening devices. This is particularly true for hair typical to people of African, Latin, and Hispanic descent as well as other hair types. In some instances, hair with these types of textures can cause sticking or tangling in some hair straightening devices during the straightening process. Thicker hair may also not be evenly or properly heated or straightened by current straightening and/or pressing devices.
It is often desirable for individuals with textured, curly, or coarse hair to straighten one's hair, a style that the hair does not naturally take. Therefore, a device that can be used during treatments, especially when the hair is wet, may be useful. Additionally, textured hair is not efficiently straightened between devices having two flat plates, as this design generally compresses the hair's natural shape/texture.
SUMMARYAspects of the present disclosure are directed toward styling devices, systems, apparatuses, and methods of using such devices.
Certain aspects are defined by the independent claims. The dependent claims may include optional features of some embodiments. The systems, methods, and devices described herein each have several aspects, no single one of which is solely responsible for its desirable attributes. Without limiting the scope of this disclosure, several non-limiting features will now be discussed briefly.
Details of one or more implementations of the subject matter described in this specification are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features, aspects, and advantages will become apparent from the description, the drawings, and the claims. Neither this summary nor the following detailed description purports to define or limit the scope of the subject matter.
In one aspect described herein, a hair device is provided. In some embodiments, the hair device includes, for example, a first arm extending along a first longitudinal axis with a proximal end and a distal end, the first arm further including a convex styling surface opposite an outside surface on the distal end of the first arm; a second arm extending along a second longitudinal axis with a proximal end and a distal end, the proximal end of the second arm pivotally coupled to the proximal end of the first arm, the second arm further including a concave styling surface opposite an outside surface on the distal end of the second arm; and a) a first series of features on the convex styling surface of the first arm, the features positioned in a direction transverse to the first longitudinal axis; or b) or a first series of features on the concave styling surface of the second arm, the features positioned in a direction transverse to the second longitudinal axis.
In some embodiments, the device further includes a second series of features on the outside surface of the first arm or on the outside surface of the second arm, wherein the second series of features is larger compared to the first series of features. In some embodiments, the first series of features and the second series of features are comprised of ridges, wherein a middle portion of each ridge is greater in height than a side portion of each ridge. In some embodiments, the first series of features and the second series of features have rounded tops. In some embodiments, the second series of features is positioned in the direction transverse to the first longitudinal axis or to the second longitudinal axis. In some embodiments, the first series of features spans the length of the convex styling surface. In some embodiments, each feature of the first series of features is about 1 mm to about 5 mm in width, with about 1 mm to about 5 mm between each feature. In some embodiments, each feature of the second series of features on the outside surface of the first arm or on the outside surface of the second arm is about 1.5 mm in width, with about 2 mm between each feature. In some embodiments, the first arm and the second arm pivot between an open position and a closed position. In some embodiments, the closed position aligns the convex styling surface of the first arm to contact the concave styling surface of the second arm. In some embodiments, the device further includes at least one heating element configured to heat the convex styling surface and the concave styling surface to at least one programmed temperature. In some embodiments, the device further includes a first, a second, and a third programmable temperature, wherein the first temperature is the highest temperature and the third temperature is the lowest temperature. In some embodiments, the device further includes a switch configured to set the at least one heating element to the at least one programmed temperature. In some embodiments, the concave styling surface and the convex styling surface are sealed from moisture. In some embodiments, the concave styling surface and the convex styling surface are ceramic, titanium, aluminum, steel, tourmaline, other metal, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the second plurality of features covers less length than the first series of features. In some embodiments, the first series of features are comprised of grooves, wherein a middle portion of each groove is greater in height than a side portion of each groove. In some embodiments, the first series of features of features has rounded edges. In some embodiments, the first series of features does not span the width of the concave styling surface.
In another aspect, a method for using a hair device to straighten hair is provided. The method may include, for example, providing a hair device, the hair device including a first arm extending along a first longitudinal axis with a proximal end and a distal end, the first arm further including a convex styling surface opposite an outside surface on the distal end of the first arm, a second arm extending along a second longitudinal axis with a proximal end and a distal end, the proximal end of the second arm pivotally coupled to the proximal end of the first arm, the second arm further comprising a concave styling surface opposite an outside surface on the distal end of the second arm, a first plurality of features on the convex styling surface of the first arm or on the concave styling surface of the second arm, the features positioned in a direction transverse to the first longitudinal axis or to the second longitudinal axis; heating the concave styling surface and the convex styling surface to a programmed temperature; providing a section of hair having a first end, a second end, an underside, and a topside; positioning, in an open position, the first arm on the underside of the section of hair at the first end; positioning the second arm on the topside of the section of hair at the first end; pivoting the first arm and the second arm to a closed position with the section of hair between the concave styling surface and the convex styling surface; and sliding the hair device from the first end of the section of hair to the second end of the section of hair.
In some embodiments, the first end of the section of hair is located closest to a user's head and the second end of the section of hair is farthest from the user's head. In some embodiments, the programmed temperature may be between approximately 240 degrees Fahrenheit to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. In some embodiments, the method further includes heating the concave styling surface and the convex styling surface to a second programmed temperature; positioning, in an open position, the first arm on the underside of the section of hair at the first end; positioning the second arm on the topside of the section of hair at the first end; pivoting the first arm and the second arm to a closed position with the section of hair between the concave styling surface and the convex styling surface; and sliding the hair device from the first end of the section of hair to the second end of the section of hair. In some embodiments, the method further includes heating the concave styling surface and the convex styling surface to a third programmed temperature; positioning, in an open position, the first arm on the underside of the section of hair at the first end; positioning the second arm on the topside of the section of hair at the first end; pivoting the first arm and the second arm to a closed position with the section of hair between the concave styling surface and the convex styling surface; and sliding the hair device from the first end of the section of hair to the second end of the section of hair.
In a further aspect, disclosed herein is a hair device. In some embodiments, the hair device comprises a body extending along a longitudinal axis, with a proximal end and a distal end, a cylindrical styling surface the distal end, and a series of features on the cylindrical styling surface, the features positioned in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis.
In some embodiments, the series of features are comprised of ridges, wherein a middle portion of each ridge is greater in height than a side portion of each ridge. In some embodiments, the series of features spans the cylindrical styling surface.
In some embodiments, the device further includes at least one heating element configured to heat the cylindrical styling surface to at least one programmed temperature. In some embodiments, the cylindrical styling surface is ceramic, titanium, aluminum, steel, tourmaline, other metal, or a combination thereof.
In a further aspect, disclosed herein is a method for using a hair device for styling hair. In some embodiments, the method includes providing a hair device. In some embodiments, In some embodiments, the hair device comprises a body extending along a longitudinal axis, with a proximal end and a distal end, a cylindrical styling surface the distal end, and a series of features on the cylindrical styling surface, the features positioned in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis. In some embodiments, the method further includes heating the cylindrical styling surface to a programmed temperature; providing a section of hair having a first end and a second end; positioning the cylindrical styling surface on the section of hair at the first end, with the section of hair in contact with the series of features; and sliding the hair device from the first end of the section of hair to the second end of the section of hair.
In the drawings, which are not necessarily to scale, like numerals may describe similar components in different views. Like numerals having different letter suffixes may represent different instances of similar components. The drawings illustrate generally, by way of example, but not by way of limitation, various embodiments discussed in the present document.
A better understanding of different embodiments may be had from the following description, read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference characters refer to like elements.
Embodiments of hair straightening devices are disclosed herein. Although certain illustrative embodiments are shown in the drawings and will be described below in detail, the claims are not limited to these embodiments. However, there is no intention to limit the disclosure to the specific embodiments disclosed. On the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, combinations, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the disclosure and defined by the appended claims.
Unless a term is expressly defined in this patent to possess a described meaning, there is no intent to limit the meaning of such term, either expressly or indirectly, beyond its plain or ordinary meaning. Any element in a claim that does not explicitly state “means for” performing a specified function, or “step for” performing a specific function, is not to be interpreted as a “means” or “step” clause as specified in 35 U.S.C. § 112, paragraph 6.
Disclosed herein are embodiments of a hair straightening device that can be used, for example, for styling hair, especially thick or coarse hair. To style textured, coarse hair, a styling device that can guide, align, and separate the strands as they pass through the heated styling plates may be useful. However, at least some of the embodiments disclosed herein can be used in many other contexts as well, including, for example other types of hair such as normal or thin, wigs or artificial hair, straightening animal fur, pressing fabrics, screen printing, ironing graphics, or removing wrinkles from clothing. Depending on the plates being used, the feature height, depth, and width, the disclosed devices and methods may accommodate various hair types and styles. The embodiments and/or components thereof can be implemented in power operated, heated devices.
One aspect of the embodiments disclosed herein includes different configurations of the heating surfaces of the pressing-type hair straightening device. Certain plate designs for different types of hair can provide better performance requiring less time and fewer passes to obtain the desired straightening. For example, some pressing-type hair straightening devices can include features in the form of teeth, spikes, ridges, grooves, or pins along the styling plates of the arms. The features may be spaced in such a way to create channels or spaces between them, within which the hair may pass. An aspect of at least one of the present embodiments includes heated features such as ridges or grooves to greatly reduce sticking and tangling that is associated with hair straightening devices with teeth. Thus, in some embodiments, a hair straightening device includes heated surfaces with features such as ridges or grooves that create channels for the hair to pass through.
Additionally, the straightening device of the disclosed embodiments may have features such as ridges in areas that are not heated on the device, such as on the outside of the arm including along the sides of the arm. Features in un-heated locations ensure that the hair is detangled and divided into smaller sections before being passed through the heated styling surfaces, thereby increasing the efficiency of the device. Precise width of the features and spacing between the features may be useful for capturing and guiding sections of hair through the styling surfaces. Certain types of hair may benefit from features specifically dimensioned or shaped.
An additional component of the described embodiments includes styling surfaces on opposing arms to be shaped such that they nest together when the device is in a closed configuration. Complementary styling surfaces prevents the hair from being compressed or smashed between two flat plates, whereas curved styling surfaces improves the movement of the hair through the device. Nesting plates may comprise of one convex plate and one concave plate where the convex plate or the concave plate has features for separating the hair. When in use, the hair is separated into the channels between features on the convex plate or the concave plate, and the smooth opposite plate applies pressure against the opposing side. This combined effect guides the hair through the straightening device without pressing or flattening the hair.
Another aspect described herein includes a hair straightening device that has multiple temperature settings, as some hair can be more easily straightened with a straightening device if more than one temperature setting is used. For example, some hair that is particularly coarse and/or curly can be more difficult to straighten by passing a known pressing type straightening iron over the hair. However, it has been found that starting with a lower temperature, then making additional of passes over the hair with a higher temperature can help obtain the desired straightness more quickly, with fewer passes. In combination with the temperature settings, hair may also be treated with product to improve the straightening method. Applying a conditioner or oil treatment to the hair, then treating at a lower temperature with the straightening device may help set the hair. Subsequent passes of the device through the hair at a higher temperature can improve the results further.
All components of the straightening device may be made from durable plastic, ceramic, metal, or other material that can withstand high temperatures and repetitive heating and cooling cycles over the lifetime of the device. Any internal electronics are protected from moisture that the outside of the device may be exposed to during use, such as during a treatment where the hair is wet or damp.
As used herein, the term straightening device can signify a hair styling device that can heat to various temperatures and move between an open and closed position.
The following is a list of certain components that are described and enumerated in this disclosure in reference to the above-listed figures. However, any aspect of the devices illustrated in the figures, whether or not named out separately herein, can form a portion of various embodiments and may provide basis for claim limitation relating to such aspects, with or without additional description. The enumerated components include:
With reference to
The straightening device 100 may have a first arm 102 and a second arm 104, wherein the first arm 102 extends along a first longitudinal axis 105 and the second arm 104 extends along a second longitudinal axis 106. The first arm 102 may have a proximal end 107 that is coupled, at a pivoting connection 118, to the proximal end of the second arm 110. A user may operate the straightening device 100 by holding both arms at the proximal end near the pivoting point 118. Opposite the proximal ends, the first arm 102 has a distal end 108 and the second arm 104 has a distal end 112 where styling components or styling surfaces are located. As the arms move about the pivoting connection 118, the straightening device 100 may move between an open position 130 and a closed position.
In some embodiments, the distal ends of both arms may contain styling components. For example, the distal end of the first arm 108 has a convex styling surface 114 opposite an outside surface 115. Similarly, the distal end of the second arm 112 contains a concave styling surface 116 opposite an outside surface 117. In many embodiments, the straightening device 100 may be used to apply heat to a user's hair. Both the concave styling surface 116 and the convex styling surface 114 may be heat conductive plates 131 and 132.
The straightening device 100 may be connected to a power cord 120 that extends from the proximal end of the first arm 107. A power cord may be configured to provide electrical power to the device when the plug 135 is in an outlet. Power may be used by the straightening device 100 to heat the concave styling surface 116 and the convex styling surface 114. The styling surfaces may be heated via a circuit and heating elements in thermal communication with the surfaces. In some embodiments, the styling surfaces are sealed 136 or enclosed to keep moisture or water from the hair or environment from entering and damaging the internal components of the straightening device 100. To keep the internal components from water or moisture damage, the plates or other portions of the straightening device 100 may contain a water-resistant seal 136 or coating.
An additional feature of the straightening device may be button 122 to turn the device on and/or off. The button 122 may slide or be pushed into different positions to power the device 100 or adjust the temperature of the device. The device may additionally have an indicator 124 or light, for example in the form of an LED temperature indicator, to indicate to the user whether the device is on or off. The indicator may be a digital display to indicate the exact temperature of the device. The indicator may also communicate the function to which the device is set to the user.
Various embodiments of the straightening device 100 may contains features on the first arm 102 and the second arm 104 toward the distal ends. One or both distal ends of the arms may contain features or may be featureless. Additionally, features may be either on the styling surfaces or on the outside surface, or both, or either arm. For example, some portion of the first arm and the second arm may contain a plurality of ridges or features 126.
In other embodiments, the power cord may extend from different locations along either the first arm or the second arm of the straightening device. Other types of power sources may also be used with the straightening device such as batteries or solar charging cells. A battery power source can increase the portability of the hair straightening device by removing the need for a cord and outlet. In alternative embodiments, the straightening device can have multiple modes of power such as a battery and a power cord.
In an alternative embodiment, the power may be controlled by a tab, a knob, or switch located on either the first arm or the second arm. The user may move the tab to a first position to turn the device or back to the starting position to power off the device. In response to moving the switch, the indicator would change color or light up to visually indicate the state of the device. In some embodiments there may be more than one indicator or light. The indicator may be a light source that turns on when the power is on or change colors when the device is set to a specific temperature. The indicator or indicators may be located anywhere on the device so that the user can see it. In other embodiments, a switch, tab, or button may be configured to allow a user to select different temperature settings for the styling surfaces. In some embodiments, an LED window may indicate the function setting, the treatment setting, or the temperature to which the device is set.
The straightening device may include a heating circuit to provide heating capabilities to the styling surfaces. Such circuits may include a power source providing electrical power to at least a first and second heat source. First and second heat sources may be of any type of commercially available components that can be electrically coupled to a power source. For example, resistors, thermistors, variable resistors, or potentiometers may be used. In some embodiments, more than one resistor or heat source can be connected to the circuit such that different temperature settings can be selected. A potentiometer or variable resistor can be used to allow a user to vary the resistance level, and thus the temperature, of the styling surfaces. The heat source may be connected to heating coils. Various heating circuit layouts can be used with switches, thermostats, and heat sources in parallel and/or in series such that the device allows the user to select different temperatures. A single heat source may be used or more than one heat source may be used. Each plate may be heated by one or more heating element disposed within the arm of the device. In one embodiment, one heating circuit is used to activate a heat source to heat the styling surfaces for each respective temperature setting. Alternatively, in another embodiment, more than one heating circuit is used to activate a heat source to heat the styling surfaces for each respective temperature setting. In some embodiments, styling surfaces may reach temperatures of about 240 degrees, about 250 degrees, about 260 degrees, about 270 degrees, about 280 degrees, about 290 degrees, about 300 degrees, about 310 degrees, about 320 degrees, about 330 degrees, about 340 degrees, about 350 degrees, about 360 degrees, about 370 degrees, about 380 degrees, about 390 degrees, about 400 degrees, about 410 degrees, about 420 degrees, about 430 degrees, about 440 degrees, about 450 degrees, about 460 degrees, about 470 degrees, about 480 degrees, about 490 degrees, about 500 degrees Fahrenheit, or a range constructed from any of the aforementioned values.
Any heating elements may be commercially available components such as those with integrated thermostat circuits. For example, three different temperature settings are available in an embodiment to be selected by the user. An indicator can depict words or numbers to the user of the temperature that has been selected, such as “pretreat,” “relaxed,” “natural,” or similar. Each setting may correspond to a different temperature, for example “pretreat” may be about 240 degrees Fahrenheit, “relaxed” may be about 420 degrees Fahrenheit, and “natural” may be about 450-500 degrees Fahrenheit. A switch may be moved to a position that corresponds with the user's desired temperature setting. A first temperature setting may be lower than a second or third. The first temperature setting may be lower than is optimal for straightening hair, where the second temperature setting may be higher and more ideal for straightening hair. In some embodiments, the “pretreat” temperature setting is about 240 degrees Fahrenheit and may be used for hair relaxing treatments, oil treatments, liquid treatments, or conditioning treatments, instead of for straightening the hair. A user may wish to heat the hair at the first temperature prior to using higher settings which may lead to improved straightening overall.
In certain embodiments, the power cord may be designed to be compatible with 15-amp, 125-volt two prong and three prong outlets. Other embodiments of the device may have plugs compatible with international outlets, ranging between 110- and 250-volts having two or more prongs.
In alternative embodiments, the convex styling surface may be on the second arm, and the concave styling surface may be on the first arm. Depth of the concave surface or height of the convex surface may vary. Alternatively, the styling surfaces may both be flat. The styling surfaces may be plates made from heat conductive material, such as ceramic, titanium, aluminum, steel, tourmaline, other metals, or a combination thereof.
The pivoting connection 118 may be any type of hinge type mechanism allowing the straightening device 100 to move between an open position and a closed position. For example, the pivoting connection can be a loaded spring that biases the first arm 102 and the second arm 104 in an open position with space between the first arm distal end 108 and the second arm distal end 112. Alternatively, the pivoting connection may be a rod or a pin. A user may apply pressure or a closing force in the opposite direction of the biasing force of the pivoting connection to close the arms or clamp together the styling surfaces.
Various embodiments can have different sizes, wider or thinner, of the features on either arm at the distal ends. For example, in some embodiments, the convex styling surface 114 on the first arm 102 can be dimensioned to have ridges 126 with width X1 to be approximately 1 mm wide, plus or minus 10%. The space between the ridges 126 can have width X2 on the convex styling surface 114 to be approximately 1 mm, plus or minus 10%. In some embodiments, the first arm outside surface 115 may contain ridges approximately 1.5 mm wide, plus or minus 10%. The space between the ridges 126 on the outer surface of the first arm 115 may be 2 mm, plus or minus 10%. In some embodiments, features on any surface may have widths or be spaced apart of any, or between any two, of the following dimensions: 0.25 mm, 0.5 mm, 0.75 mm, 1 mm, 1.25 mm, 1.5 mm, 1.75 mm, 2 mm, 2.25 mm, 2.5 mm, 2.75 mm, 3 mm, 3.5 mm, 4 mm, 4.5 mm, 5 mm, 5.5 mm, and 6 mm.
In certain embodiments, there may be more or less features that extend for different distances along the arms. A straightening device may have a fixed number of features 126 on the convex styling surface. In some embodiments, the convex styling surface may have 41 ridges. In alternative embodiments, the convex styling surface may have 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55 or more features, or a range constructed from any of the aforementioned values, along the surface. There may be more or less features on the outside surface of the first arm or the second arm. For example, there may be 23 features along the outside surface. In alternative embodiments, the outside surface may have 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40 or more features, or a range constructed from any of the aforementioned values.
In some embodiments, the features or ridges 126 may be thinner, and therefore the distal ends of the arms may contain more ridges. Alternatively, the ridges may be thicker in width and spaced further apart resulting in fewer ridges on the distal end of the arms. In alternative embodiments, the ridges may be of varying thickness on both the styling surface and the outside surface.
Features on the distal ends of the device may include teeth, ridges, blades, blade shaped tines, projections, or other protrusions that can project from the surface of the straightening device. Features on the distal ends of the device may also include grooves, indentations, channels, cavities, or other depressions that are lower than the surface of the straightening device. Individual features may have a curved or rounded top edge or may come to a point. In some embodiments, the middle portion of each ridge is greater in height than side portions of each ridge. In some embodiments, a middle portion of each groove is lower in height than a side portion of each groove. The features may be curved overall to accommodate a concave or convex shape of the styling surface. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the features may be straight or flat across a flat plate.
Features may vary in length, width, height and spacing. Features may also vary on the length of the plate themselves, for example, the length, width, height and/or spacing may vary across a styling surface. For example, there may be different configurations of features on the length of a plate to produce different end results. Features on the straightening device can have different cross-sectional shapes or configurations such as triangular or spike-shaped upper edges when viewed in cross-section. Alternatively, features may have rounded tops or may have squared or flat edges.
In another embodiment,
The device may be dimensioned in various ways resulting in a larger gripping surface or smaller gripping surface. Additionally, the arms may have various dimensions towards the distal ends to affect the size of the styling surfaces. In certain embodiments, the width of the distal end proximate to the styling surfaces may be width Z1. The width at Z1 may vary in certain embodiments resulting in a change in the length and width of the channels between the features. For example, the width Z1 may be approximately 1.75 inches, plus or minus 20%. The width Z1 may have a width of any, or between any two, of the following dimensions: 0.5 inches, 1.0 inches, 1.25 inches, 1.5 inches, 1.75 inches, 2.0 inches, 2.25 inches, 2.5 inches, and 2.75 inches, or more. Smaller straightening devices may have a Z1 width that is smaller, while larger devices may have a larger Z1 dimension. In some embodiments, the width of the arms is constant from distal to proximal end without thinner and thicker areas.
In some embodiments, the features may span the width of the outside surface of the first arm which may include the rounded edges of the arm. The length of the feature may change depending on the width of the arm or the dimension of Z1. For example, in some embodiments, the feature on the outside of the arm may be approximately 1.5 inches, plus or minus 10%. Length of the feature on the outside surface may be any, or between any two, of the following dimensions: 0.5 inches, 1.0 inches, 1.25 inches, 1.5 inches, 1.75 inches, 2.0 inches, 2.25 inches, 2.5 inches, and 2.75 inches.
In some embodiments, the straightening device 100 may not contain features on the outside surface 117 towards the distal end 110 of the second arm 104. This may be due to the way the user handles the straightening device, as hair will not contact the outer surface of the second arm 117 as it is pulled through the styling surfaces and away from the user's head. In alternative embodiments, the outside surface of the second arm 117 may contain features. In certain embodiments, the device 100 may contain features on the outside surface of the second arm 117 if the user turns the device in such a way to cause the hair to feed through features on the outside of the second arm. Using a device in this manner may produce waves in the user's hair.
The plurality of features may extend in a lateral direction transverse to the first longitudinal axis 105 of the first arm. In some embodiments, the convex styling surface 114 contains a plurality of ridges 126 over a length Y1. For example, length Y1 may be approximately 3.5 inches, plus or minus 20%. The length Y1 may have a length of any, or between any two, of the following dimensions: 2 inches, 2.5 inches, 3 inches, 3.5 inches, 4 inches, 4.5 inches, and 5 inches. Smaller straightening device embodiments may have a Y1 length that is shorter while larger devices may have a longer Y1 dimension.
In some embodiments, the space 402 between the ridges 126 on the outside surface of the first arm may be greater than the space between the inner ridges 404. In alternative embodiments, the space between the ridges may be inverted for the arms or the space between the ridges may be the same for both the inside and outside surfaces. In some embodiments, the space between the ridges may vary on the convex styling surface or the outside of the arm.
The straightening device 100 may have styling surfaces on the inside of the arms at the distal ends. Styling surfaces may be metal (titanium, aluminum, steel, tourmaline, or other metal) or ceramic plates that can be heated to a programmed temperature. On the first arm 102, there may be a convex plate 406, and on the second arm, there may be a concave plate 408. At the distal tips of the arms, there may be a small area that is featureless on the inside 414. This area may not be heated so that the straightening device can be handled at a grip point 410 at the distal end of the device without risk of burning the user.
Many embodiments of the straightening device may exist where features may span the length of the first or second arm, including substantially the entire length of the first or second arm, or alternatively, features may be contained to certain areas on the device. In the embodiment of
With reference to
The straightening device 600 may have a first arm 602 and a second arm 604, wherein the first arm 602 extends along a first longitudinal axis 605 and the second arm 604 extends along a second longitudinal axis 606. The first arm 602 may have a proximal end 607 that is coupled, at a pivoting connection 618, to the proximal end of the second arm 610. A user may operate the straightening device 600 by holding both arms at the proximal end near the pivoting point 618. Opposite the proximal ends, the first arm 602 has a distal end 608 and the second arm 604 has a distal end 612 where styling components or styling surfaces are located. As the arms move about the pivoting connection 618, the straightening device 600 may move between an open position 630 and a closed position.
In some embodiments, the distal ends of both arms may contain styling components. For example, the distal end of the first arm 608 has a concave styling surface 614 opposite an outside surface 615. Similarly, the distal end of the second arm 612 contains a convex styling surface 616 opposite an outside surface 617. In many embodiments, the straightening device 600 may be used to apply heat to a user's hair. Both the convex styling surface 616 and the concave styling surface 614 may be heat conductive plates 631 and 632.
The straightening device 600 may be connected to a power cord 620 that extends from the proximal end of the first arm 607. A power cord may be configured to provide electrical power to the device when the plug 635 is in an outlet. Power may be used by the straightening device 600 to heat the convex styling surface 616 and the concave styling surface 614. The styling surfaces may be heated via a circuit and heating elements in thermal communication with the surfaces. In some embodiments, the styling surfaces are sealed 636 or enclosed to keep moisture or water from the hair or environment from entering and damaging the internal components of the straightening device 600. To keep the internal components from water or moisture damage, the plates or other components of the device may contain a water-resistant seal 636 or coating.
An additional feature of the straightening device may be button 622 to turn the device on and/or off. The button 622 may slide or be pushed into different positions to power the device 600 or adjust the temperature of the device. The device may additionally have an indicator 624 or light, for example in the form of an LED temperature indicator, to indicate to the user whether the device is on or off. The indicator may be a digital display to indicate the exact temperature of the device. The indicator may also communicate the function to which the device is set to the user.
Various embodiments of the straightening device 600 may contains features on the first arm 602 and the second arm 604 toward the distal ends. One or both distal ends of the arms may contain features or may be featureless. Additionally, features may be either on the styling surfaces or on the outside surface, or both, or either arm. For example, some portion of the first arm and/or the second arm may contain a plurality of features 626.
In alternative embodiments, the concave styling surface may be on the second arm, and the convex styling surface may be on the first arm. Depth of the concave surface or height of the convex surface may vary. Alternatively, the styling surfaces may both be flat. The styling surfaces may be plates made from heat conductive material, such as ceramic, titanium, aluminum, steel, tourmaline, other metals, or a combination thereof.
The pivoting connection 618 may be any type of hinge type mechanism allowing the straightening device 600 to move between an open position and a closed position. For example, the pivoting connection can be a loaded spring that biases the first arm 602 and the second arm 604 in an open position with space between the first arm distal end 608 and the second arm distal end 612. Alternatively, the pivoting connection may be a rod or a pin. A user may apply pressure or a closing force in the opposite direction of the biasing force of the pivoting connection to close the arms or clamp together the styling surfaces.
Various embodiments can have different sizes, wider or thinner, of the features on either arm at the distal ends. For example, in some embodiments, the concave styling surface 614 on the first arm 602 can be dimensioned to have features 626 with width X1 to be approximately 1 mm wide, plus or minus 10%. The space between the features 626 can have width X2 on the concave styling surface 614 to be approximately 1 mm, plus or minus 10%. In some embodiments, the first arm outside surface 615 may contain features (not shown) approximately 1.5 mm wide, plus or minus 10%. The space between the features on the outer surface of the first arm 115 may be 2 mm, plus or minus 10%. In some embodiments, features on any surface may have widths or be spaced apart of any, or between any two, of the following dimensions: 0.25 mm, 0.5 mm, 0.75 mm, 1 mm, 1.25 mm, 1.5 mm, 1.75 mm, 2 mm, 2.25 mm, 2.5 mm, 2.75 mm, 3 mm, 3.5 mm, 4 mm, 4.5 mm, 5 mm, 5.5 mm, and 6 mm.
In certain embodiments, there may be more or less features that extend for different distances along the arms. A straightening device may have a fixed number of features 626 on the concave styling surface. In some embodiments, the concave styling surface may have 17 features. In alternative embodiments, the concave styling surface may have 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, or 55 or more features, or a range constructed from any of the aforementioned values, along the surface. There may be more or less features on the outside surface of the first arm or the second arm. For example, there may be 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, or more features, or a range constructed from any of the aforementioned values.
In some embodiments, the features 626 may be thinner, and therefore the distal ends of the arms may contain more ridges. Alternatively, the ridges may be thicker in width and spaced further apart resulting in fewer ridges on the distal end of the arms. In alternative embodiments, the ridges may be of varying thickness on both the styling surface and the outside surface.
Features on the distal ends of the device may include teeth, ridges, blades, blade shaped tines, projections, or other protrusions that can project from the surface of the straightening device. Features on the distal ends of the device may also include grooves, indentations, channels, cavities, or other depressions that are lower than the surface of the straightening device. Individual features may have a curved or rounded top edge or may come to a point. In some embodiments, the middle portion of each ridge is greater in height than side portions of each ridge. In some embodiments, a middle portion of each groove is lower in height than a side portion of each groove. The features may be curved overall to accommodate a concave or convex shape of the styling surface. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the features may be straight or flat across a flat plate.
Features on the straightening device can have different cross-sectional shapes or configurations such as triangular or spike-shaped edges when viewed in cross-section. Alternatively, features may have rounded tops or may have squared or flat edges.
In another embodiment,
The device may be dimensioned in various ways resulting in a larger gripping surface or smaller gripping surface. Additionally, the arms may have various dimensions towards the distal ends to affect the size of the styling surfaces. In certain embodiments, the width of the distal end proximate to the styling surfaces may be width Z1. The width at Z1 may vary in certain embodiments resulting in a change in the length and width of the channels between the features. For example, the width Z1 may be approximately 1.75 inches, plus or minus 20%. The width Z1 may have a width of any, or between any two, of the following dimensions: 0.5 inches, 1.0 inches, 1.25 inches, 1.5 inches, 1.75 inches, 2.0 inches, 2.25 inches, 2.5 inches, and 2.75 inches. Smaller straightening devices may have a Z1 width that is smaller, while larger devices may have a larger Z1 dimension. In some embodiments, the width of the arms is constant from distal to proximal end without thinner and thicker areas.
The plurality of features may extend in a lateral direction transverse to the first longitudinal axis 605 of the first arm. In some embodiments, the concave styling surface 904 contains a plurality of features 626 over a length Y1. For example, length Y1 may be approximately 3.5 inches, plus or minus 20%. The length Y1 may have a length of any, or between any two, of the following dimensions: 2 inches, 2.5 inches, 3 inches, 3.5 inches, 4 inches, 4.5 inches, and 5 inches. Smaller straightening device embodiments may have a Y1 length that is shorter while larger devices may have a longer Y1 dimension.
The straightening device 600 may have styling surfaces on the inside of the arms at the distal ends. Styling surfaces may be metal or ceramic plates that can be heated to a programmed temperature. On the first arm 602, there may be a concave styling surface 904, and on the second arm, there may be a convex styling surface 908. At the distal tips of the arms, there may be a small area that is featureless on the inside 914. This area may not be heated so that the straightening device can be handled at a grip point 910 at the distal end of the device without risk of burning the user.
Many embodiments of the straightening device may exist where features may span the length, including substantially the entire length, of the first or second arm, or alternatively, features may be contained to certain areas on the device. In the embodiment of
With reference to
The pivotal connection 12 can be any type of hinge type mechanism, such as a loaded spring, that biases apart or maintains the distal ends 14, 16 of first and second arms 4, 6 of the hair straightening device 2 in a generally open position, spaced a distance apart from each other. The pivotal connection 12 can maintain or bias the first and second arms 4, 6 away or apart from each other. Additionally, the pivotal connection 12 can be a rod or pin. A user can apply pressure or a closing force in an opposite direction of the biasing force of the pivotal connection to close or push together the first and second arms 4, 6.
The space or distance between the two arms can vary depending on how much pressure or force a user applies to close, press or push together the two arms. In different embodiments, the width of the arms 4, 6 can be varied. For example, the arms 4, 6 can have a width of ½ inch, 1 inch, 1.5 inches, values in between or otherwise. Likewise, each arm can be of various lengths.
As illustrated in
In some embodiments, the power is used to heat hair contacting surfaces 26, 28 of the two arms 4, 6 that are configured to press or straighten a user's hair between the two surfaces when the arms 4, 6 are pressed together. Each arm 4, 6 has an opposing surface 26, 28 that face each other and extend along a portion of an underside of each arm in a longitudinal direction between the proximal 8, 10 and distal ends 14, 16. The surfaces 26, 28 are configured to be heated via a heating circuit and heating elements in thermal communication with the hair contacting surfaces 26, 28, connected to the power source (described in more detail below). The heated surfaces 26, 28 are generally aligned in some embodiments and can abut or contact each other when the device 2 is biased into a closed position by the user. In some embodiments, one or both surfaces 26, 28 can be smooth and/or featureless, such as surface 28 of second arm 6 as illustrated in an embodiment in
In other embodiments, one or both surfaces 26, 28 can include features. These features can include teeth, blades, blade shaped tines, grooves, ridges, projections or other protrusions that can project out from surfaces 26 and/or 28. These features can be heated as a result of the surface they project from being heated. In some embodiments, the features are heated directly. For example, the surfaces 26, 28 can be connected in thermal communication with heating electric elements. In some embodiments, the surfaces 26, 28 can be made from thermally conductive materials, such as titanium, aluminum, steel, ceramic, or other materials.
In some embodiments, such as that illustrated in
As illustrated in
The plurality of rows of blades 30 are aligned such that individual rows are positioned adjacent to each other, one row in back of or in front of another, such that they form a series of blades longitudinally along the surface of an arm without any spike shaped disposed between the blades 30. As illustrated in an embodiment of the blades 30 in
In some embodiments, the arms 4, 6, surfaces 26, 28 and plurality of rows of blades 30 can be configured into different shapes such as flat, rectangular, circular, semi-circular, arc, convex and concave. The rows of blades 30 can be parallel to each other and closely spaced. As illustrated in
In other embodiments, as illustrated in
With reference to
In some embodiments, the straightening device 2 can include a tab, button, knob or switch 20 located on either the first or second arm to turn the device 2 on and off. As illustrated, a user can push or slide the switch 20 or tab to a first position to turn the device on or to a second position to turn the device off. Indicators can depict “on” and “off” to show a user which direction or position to slide the tab or button to turn the device on or off. In other embodiments, a button can be used to power on or off the device. For example, a user can simply press a button once to turn the device on and press it again to turn it off. Additionally, an indicator such as a light source 24 can be positioned on a surface of one of the arms of the device 2 and connected to the switch 20 so as to indicate whether the device is on or off. For example, the light source 24 can emit light when a user has turned or powered on the device 2. The light source 24, in some embodiments, can also indicate a specific temperature setting as discussed below.
In other embodiments, as illustrated in
In some embodiments, a first temperature setting can be lower than a second, third and/or more temperature settings. The first temperature setting in some embodiments can be lower than is optimum for straightening hair or thicker, coarser hair while the second and third temperature settings can be higher than the first temperature setting and at a more optimal temperature for straightening hair. For example, in one embodiment illustrated in
As noted above, the device 2 can include a heating circuit configured to provide electrical power to heating elements disposed in the device and configured to heat the hair contacting surfaces 26, 28. The heating elements can be any one of numerous commercially available heating elements, including those with integrated thermostat circuits. Additionally, the selector switch (
For example, such a circuit can include a power source providing electrical power to at least a first and second heat source to heat surfaces 26, 28 or plates of the first and second arm. The heating circuit can also include a switch allowing a user to turn the power on and off. The first and second heat sources can be any type of commercially available heat source that can be electrically connected to a power source. Examples include resistors, thermistors, variable resistors, or potentiometers. In certain embodiments, more than one resistor or heat source can be connected to the circuit such that different temperature settings can be realized or selected. In certain embodiments, a potentiometer or variable resistor can be used allowing a user to vary the resistance level and thus the temperature of the heat source. In some embodiments, the heat source can be connected to heating coils.
Various heating circuit layouts can be used with switches, thermostats, and heat sources in parallel and/or in series such that the device 2 allows a user to select different temperatures to heat the plates, surfaces, or surface features of the device 2. In some embodiments, a single heat source can be used to heat the surfaces, plates, or surface features. In other embodiments, more than one heat source can be used or connected to the circuit. In some embodiments, one heating circuit is used to activate a heat source or sources to heat the surfaces or features of the device for each respective temperature setting. In other embodiments, more than one heating circuit is used to activate a heat source or sources to heat the surfaces or features for the device for each respective temperature setting.
One embodiment of a method of straightening hair using the device 2 includes biasing the arms 4, 6 together into a closed position such that surfaces or plates 26, 28 contact or abut each other or the top of the blades 30, maintaining pressure on the user's hair such that the hair is forced and separated between a series of rows of blades 30 on the arm 26. A user can then maintain the device 2 in a closed position and heat their hair between the blades of the device 2 as they move, push, or pull the device 2 away from their head. In one embodiment, the user can heat or pretreat their hair with device 2 at a temperature setting that is not optimal for straightening but optimal for treating the hair with relaxing treatment, oil treatment, conditioning treatment and/or other liquid treatments. After this pretreatment, the user can then select a higher temperature setting that is optimal for straightening and proceed to use the device to straighten their hair. In some embodiments, a hair styling or heating oil, gel, or liquid can be used in conjunction with the device 2 in order to facilitate the straightening of a user's hair. This oil can be applied to the surface or plates of the device 2 or to the user's hair directly prior to using the device.
With reference to
In some embodiments, the distal end 1908 may contain styling components. For example, the distal end 1908 has a cylindrical styling surface 1914. In many embodiments, the curling device 1900 may be used to apply heat to a user's hair. The cylindrical styling surface 1914 may include one or more heat conductive plates.
The curling device 1900 may be connected to a power cord 1920 that extends from the proximal end 1910. A power cord may be configured to provide electrical power to the device when the plug is in an outlet. Power may be used by the curling device 1900 to heat the cylindrical styling 1914. The styling surface 1914 may be heated via a circuit and heating elements in thermal communication with the surfaces. In some embodiments, the styling surfaces are sealed or enclosed to keep moisture or water from the hair or environment from entering and damaging the internal components of the curling device 1900. To keep the internal components from water or moisture damage, the plates or other components of the device may contain a water-resistant seal or coating.
An additional feature of the curling device 1900 may be button 1922 to turn the device on and/or off. The button 1922 may slide or be pushed into different positions to power the curling device 1900 or adjust the temperature of the device. The device may additionally have an indicator 1924 or light, for example in the form of an LED temperature indicator, to indicate to the user whether the device is on or off. The indicator may be a digital display to indicate the exact temperature of the device. The indicator may also communicate the function to which the device is set to the user.
Various embodiments of the curling device 1900 may contain features toward the distal end 1908, such as on the cylindrical styling surface 1914. The distal end 1908 of the curling device 1900 may contain features or may be featureless. For example, some portion styling surface 1914 may contain a plurality of features 1926, such as ridges or grooves. The cylindrical styling surface 1914 may include one or more plates and may be made from heat conductive material, such as ceramic, titanium, aluminum, steel, tourmaline, other metals, or a combination thereof.
Various embodiments can have different sizes, wider or thinner, of the features on either arm at the distal ends. For example, in some embodiments, the cylindrical styling surface 1914 can be dimensioned to have features 1926 with width X1 to be approximately 1 mm wide, plus or minus 10%. The space between the features 1926 can have width X2 on the cylindrical styling surface 1914 to be approximately 1 mm, plus or minus 10%. In some embodiments, features on any surface may have widths or be spaced apart of any, or between any two, of the following dimensions: 0.25 mm, 0.5 mm, 0.75 mm, 1 mm, 1.25 mm, 1.5 mm, 1.75 mm, 2 mm, 2.25 mm, 2.5 mm, 2.75 mm, 3 mm, 3.5 mm, 4 mm, 4.5 mm, 5 mm, 5.5 mm, and 6 mm.
In certain embodiments, there may be more or less features that extend for different distances along the cylindrical styling surface 1914. A curling device 1900 may have a fixed number of features 1926 on the cylindrical styling surface 1914. In some embodiments, the cylindrical styling surface 1914 may have 41 features. In alternative embodiments, the cylindrical styling surface 1914 may have 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55 or more features, or a range constructed from any of the aforementioned values, along the cylindrical styling surface 1914.
In some embodiments, the features 1926 may be thinner, and therefore the distal end 1908 may contain more features. Alternatively, the features 1926 may be thicker in width and spaced further apart resulting in fewer features on the distal end 1908 of the curling device 1900. In alternative embodiments, the features 1926 may be of varying thickness on the cylindrical styling surface 1914.
Features on the distal end 1908 of the curling device may include teeth, ridges, blades, blade shaped tines, projections, or other protrusions that can project from the surface of the curling device. Features on the distal end 1908 of the curling device 1900 may also include grooves, indentations, channels, cavities, or other depressions that are lower than the surface of the curling device. Individual features may have a curved or rounded top edge or may come to a point. In some embodiments, the middle portion of each ridge is greater in height than side portions of each ridge. In some embodiments, a middle portion of each groove is lower in height than a side portion of each groove. The features may be curved overall to accommodate a cylindrical shape of the cylindrical styling surface 1914. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the features may be straight or flat across a flat plate. Features on the curling device can have different cross-sectional shapes or configurations such as triangular or spike-shaped edges when viewed in cross-section. Alternatively, features may have rounded tops or may have squared or flat edges.
The foregoing description details certain embodiments of the systems, devices, and methods disclosed herein. It will be appreciated, however, that no matter how detailed the foregoing appears in text, the systems, devices, and methods can be practiced in many ways. As is also stated above, it should be noted that the use of particular terminology when describing certain features or aspects of the disclosure should not be taken to imply that the terminology is being re-defined herein to be restricted to including any specific characteristics of the features or aspects of the technology with which that terminology is associated.
Conditional language such as, among others, “can,” “could,” “might” or “may,” unless specifically stated otherwise, are otherwise understood within the context as used in general to convey that certain embodiments include, while other embodiments do not include, certain features, elements and/or steps. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements and/or steps are in any way required for one or more embodiments or that one or more embodiments necessarily include logic for deciding, with or without user input or prompting, whether these features, elements and/or steps are included or are to be performed in any particular embodiment.
Headings are included herein for reference and to aid in locating various sections. These headings are not intended to limit the scope of the concepts described with respect thereto. Such concepts may have applicability throughout the entire specification.
Many variations and modifications may be made to the above-described embodiments, the elements of which are to be understood as being among other acceptable examples. All such modifications and variations are intended to be included herein within the scope of this disclosure. The foregoing description details certain embodiments. It will be appreciated, however, that no matter how detailed the foregoing appears in text, the systems and methods can be practiced in many ways. As is also stated above, it should be noted that the use of particular terminology when describing certain features or aspects of the systems and methods should not be taken to imply that the terminology is being re-defined herein to be restricted to including any specific characteristics of the features or aspects of the systems and methods with which that terminology is associated.
It will also be understood that, when a feature or element (for example, a structural feature or element) is referred to as being “connected”, “attached” or “coupled” to another feature or element, it may be directly connected, attached or coupled to the other feature or element or intervening features or elements may be present. In contrast, when a feature or element is referred to as being “directly connected”, “directly attached” or “directly coupled” to another feature or element, there may be no intervening features or elements present. Although described or shown with respect to one embodiment, the features and elements so described or shown may apply to other embodiments. It will also be appreciated by those of skill in the art that references to a structure or feature that is disposed “adjacent” another feature may have portions that overlap or underlie the adjacent feature.
Terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments and implementations only and is not intended to be limiting. For example, as used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” may be intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises” and/or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, steps, operations, processes, functions, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, processes, functions, elements, components, and/or groups thereof. As used herein, the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items and may be abbreviated as “/”.
In the descriptions above and in the claims, phrases such as “at least one of”, “one or more of” or “a plurality of” may occur followed by a conjunctive list of elements or features. The term “and/or” may also occur in a list of two or more elements or features. Unless otherwise implicitly or explicitly contradicted by the context in which it used, such a phrase is intended to mean any of the listed elements or features individually or any of the recited elements or features in combination with any of the other recited elements or features. For example, the phrases “at least one of A and B;” “one or more of A and B;” “a plurality of A and B;” and “A and/or B” are each intended to mean “A alone, B alone, or A and B together.” A similar interpretation is also intended for lists including three or more items. For example, the phrases “at least one of A, B, and C;” “one or more of A, B, and C;” and “A, B, and/or C” are each intended to mean “A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, or A and B and C together.” Use of the term “based on,” above and in the claims is intended to mean, “based at least in part on,” such that an unrecited feature or element is also permissible.
Spatially relative terms, such as “forward”, “rearward”, “under”, “below”, “lower”, “over”, “upper” and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. It will be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if a device in the figures is inverted, elements described as “under” or “beneath” other elements or features would then be oriented “over” the other elements or features due to the inverted state. Thus, the term “under” may encompass both an orientation of over and under, depending on the point of reference or orientation. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly. Similarly, the terms “upwardly”, “downwardly”, “vertical”, “horizontal” and the like may be used herein for the purpose of explanation only unless specifically indicated otherwise.
Although various illustrative embodiments have been disclosed, any of a number of changes may be made to various embodiments without departing from the teachings herein. For example, the order in which various described method steps are performed may be changed or reconfigured in different or alternative embodiments, and in other embodiments one or more method steps may be skipped altogether. Optional or desirable features of various device and system embodiments may be included in some embodiments and not in others. Therefore, the foregoing description is provided primarily for the purpose of example and should not be interpreted to limit the scope of the claims and specific embodiments or particular details or features disclosed.
As used herein in the specification and claims, including as used in the examples and unless otherwise expressly specified, all numbers may be read as if prefaced by the word “about” or “approximately,” even if the term does not expressly appear. The phrase “about” or “approximately” may be used when describing numeric values of magnitude and/or position to indicate that the value and/or position described is within a reasonable expected range of values and/or positions. For example, a numeric value may have a value that is +/−0.1% of the stated value (or range of values), +/−1% of the stated value (or range of values), +/−2% of the stated value (or range of values), +/−5% of the stated value (or range of values), +/−10% of the stated value (or range of values), etc. Any numerical values given herein should also be understood to include about or approximately that value, unless the context indicates otherwise. The term “substantially” is used to indicate that a measurement value is close to a targeted value, where close can mean, for example, the result is within 80% of the value, within 90% of the value, within 95% of the value, or within 99% of the value.
For example, if the value “10” is disclosed, then “about 10” is also disclosed. Any numerical range recited herein is intended to include all sub-ranges subsumed therein. It is also understood that when a value is disclosed that “less than or equal to” the value, “greater than or equal to the value” and possible ranges between values are also disclosed, as appropriately understood by the skilled artisan. For example, if the value “X” is disclosed the “less than or equal to X” as well as “greater than or equal to X” (e.g., where X is a numerical value) is also disclosed. It is also understood that the throughout the application, data is provided in a number of different formats, and that this data, may represent endpoints or starting points, and ranges for any combination of the data points. For example, if a particular data point “10” and a particular data point “15” may be disclosed, it is understood that greater than, greater than or equal to, less than, less than or equal to, and equal to 10 and 15 may be considered disclosed as well as between 10 and 15. It is also understood that each unit between two particular units may be also disclosed. For example, if 10 and 15 may be disclosed, then 11, 12, 13, and 14 may be also disclosed.
Claims
1. A hair device, comprising:
- a first arm extending along a first longitudinal axis with a proximal end and a distal end, the first arm further comprising a convex styling surface opposite an outside surface on the distal end of the first arm;
- a second arm extending along a second longitudinal axis with a proximal end and a distal end, the proximal end of the second arm pivotally coupled to the proximal end of the first arm, the second arm further comprising a concave styling surface opposite an outside surface on the distal end of the second arm; and: a) a first series of features on the convex styling surface of the first arm, the features positioned in a direction transverse to the first longitudinal axis, or b) a first series of features on the concave styling surface of the second arm, the features positioned in a direction transverse to the second longitudinal axis.
2. The device of claim 1, wherein the device comprises a) a first series of features on the convex styling surface of the first arm, the features positioned in a direction transverse to the first longitudinal axis.
3. The device of claim 1, further comprising a second series of features on the outside surface of the first arm or on the outside surface of the second arm, wherein the second series of features are larger compared to the first series of features.
4. The device of claim 3, wherein the first series of features and the second series of features are comprised of ridges, wherein a middle portion of each ridge is greater in height than a side portion of each ridge.
5. The device of claim 3, wherein the first series of features and the second series of features have rounded tops.
6. The device of claim 3, wherein the second series of features is positioned in the direction transverse to the first longitudinal axis or to the second longitudinal axis.
7. The device of claim 2, wherein the first series of features spans the entire length of the convex styling surface.
8. The device of claim 1, wherein each feature of the first series of features is about 1 mm to about 5 mm in width, with about 1 mm to about 5 mm between each feature.
9. The device of claim 3, wherein each feature of the second series of features on the outside surface of the first arm or the second arm is about 1.5 mm in width, with about 2 mm between each feature.
10. The device of claim 1, wherein the first arm and the second arm pivot between an open position and a closed position, wherein the closed position aligns the convex styling surface of the first arm to contact the concave styling surface of the second arm.
11. The device of claim 1, further comprising at least one heating element configured to heat the convex styling surface and the concave styling surface to at least one programmed temperature.
12. The device of claim 11, further comprising a first, a second, and a third programmable temperature, wherein the first temperature is the highest temperature and the third temperature is the lowest temperature.
13. The device of claim 11, further comprising a switch configured to set the at least one heating element to the at least one programmed temperature.
14. The device of claim 1, wherein the concave styling surface and the convex styling surface are sealed from moisture.
15. The device of claim 1, wherein the concave styling surface and the convex styling surface are ceramic, titanium, aluminum, steel, tourmaline, other metal, or a combination thereof.
16. The device of claim 3, wherein the second series of features covers less length than the first series of features.
17. The device of claim 1, wherein the device comprises b) a first series of features on the concave styling surface of the second arm, the features positioned in a direction transverse to the second longitudinal axis.
18. The device of claim 17, wherein the first series of features are comprised of grooves, wherein a middle portion of each groove is lower in height than a side portion of each groove.
19. The device of claim 17, wherein the first series of features of features has rounded edges.
20. The device of claim 1, wherein the first series of features does not span the width of the concave styling surface.
21. A method for using a hair device to straighten hair, the method comprising:
- providing a hair device, the hair device comprising: a first arm extending along a first longitudinal axis with a proximal end and a distal end, the first arm further comprising a convex styling surface opposite an outside surface on the distal end of the first arm, a second arm extending along a second longitudinal axis with a proximal end and a distal end, the proximal end of the second arm pivotally coupled to the proximal end of the first arm, the second arm further comprising a concave styling surface opposite an outside surface on the distal end of the second arm, and a first plurality of features on the convex styling surface of the first arm or on the concave styling surface of the second arm, the features positioned in a direction transverse to the first longitudinal axis or to the second longitudinal axis;
- heating the concave styling surface and the convex styling surface to a programmed temperature;
- providing a section of hair having a first end, a second end, an underside, and a topside;
- positioning, in an open position, the first arm on the underside of the section of hair at the first end;
- positioning the second arm on the topside of the section of hair at the first end;
- pivoting the first arm and the second arm to a closed position with the section of hair between the concave styling surface and the convex styling surface; and
- sliding the hair device from the first end of the section of hair to the second end of the section of hair.
22. The method of claim 21, wherein the first end of the section of hair is located closest to a user's head and the second end of the section of hair is farthest from the user's head.
23. The method of claim 21, wherein the programmed temperature may be between approximately 240 degrees Fahrenheit to 500 degrees Fahrenheit.
24. The method of claim 21, further comprising:
- heating the concave styling surface and the convex styling surface to a second programmed temperature;
- positioning, in an open position, the first arm on the underside of the section of hair at the first end;
- positioning the second arm on the topside of the section of hair at the first end;
- pivoting the first arm and the second arm to a closed position with the section of hair between the concave styling surface and the convex styling surface; and
- sliding the hair device from the first end of the section of hair to the second end of the section of hair.
25. The method of claim 23, further comprising:
- heating the concave styling surface and the convex styling surface to a third programmed temperature;
- positioning, in an open position, the first arm on the underside of the section of hair at the first end;
- positioning the second arm on the topside of the section of hair at the first end;
- pivoting the first arm and the second arm to a closed position with the section of hair between the concave styling surface and the convex styling surface; and
- sliding the hair device from the first end of the section of hair to the second end of the section of hair.
26. A hair device, comprising:
- a body extending along a longitudinal axis, with a proximal end and a distal end,
- a cylindrical styling surface the distal end, and
- a series of features on the cylindrical styling surface, the features positioned in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis.
27. The device of claim 26, wherein the series of features are comprised of ridges, wherein a middle portion of each ridge is greater in height than a side portion of each ridge.
28. The device of claim 26, wherein the series of features spans the cylindrical styling surface.
29. The device of claim 26, further comprising at least one heating element configured to heat the cylindrical styling surface to at least one programmed temperature.
30. The device of claim 26, wherein the cylindrical styling surface is ceramic, titanium, aluminum, steel, tourmaline, other metal, or a combination thereof.
Type: Application
Filed: Mar 6, 2024
Publication Date: Sep 12, 2024
Inventor: Dana Story (Van Nuys, CA)
Application Number: 18/597,789
