Device for treating hair

Abstract

The invention relates to a device for treating, especially styling, hair, comprising: a receptacle (25) containing a product to be applied, said product being contained in the receptacle in a fluid state; two jaws (3, 4) that are movable in relation to each other and can adopt a spread configuration for the insertion of a lock of hair therebetween and a closed configuration for treating the lock of hair, said jaws (3, 4) being movable along the lock of hair in said closed configuration; an application body (23) for applying the cosmetic product, carried by one of said jaws and suitable for coming into contact with the hair in the closed position; and a steam outlet (21) on the other one of said jaws, for exposing the hair engaged in the device to the steam.

Claims

1. A device for treating the hair, comprising: a reservoir containing a cosmetic product to be applied, this cosmetic product being contained in the fluid state in the reservoir, a first jaw and a second jaw that are pivotable with respect to one another by an articulation and are able to take up a spaced-apart configuration for introducing a lock of hair between the first and second jaws and a moved-together configuration for treating the lock of hair, the first and second jaws being movable along the lock in this moved-together configuration, one heating element carried by one of the first and second jaws and disposed so as to come into contact with the lock of hair introduced between the first and second jaws, an applicator member for applying the cosmetic product in a liquid form, said applicator member being carried by the first jaw and being configured to come into contact with the hair in the closed position, the applicator member comprising a porous material, a steam outlet on the second jaw, for exposing the hair introduced into the device to steam, the steam outlet being configured such that only water exits from the steam outlet, the applicator member and the heating element being offset relative to a direction of movement over the lock, the second jaw not including any applicator member for applying the cosmetic product in a liquid form, wherein the steam outlet and the applicator member are offset relative to the direction of movement over the lock.

2. The device as claimed in claim 1, comprising a comb carried by one of said first and second jaws.

3. The device as claimed in claim 1, comprising at least two heating elements disposed so as to come into contact with the lock of hair introduced between the first and second jaws, each disposed on one of the first and second jaws and each disposed so as to come into contact with said lock.

4. The device as claimed in claim 3, wherein the heating element(s) define(s) hot surfaces for bringing into contact with the hair, a comb being disposed upstream of these hot surfaces.

5. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the steam outlet and the applicator member are offset relative to the direction of movement over the lock.

6. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the applicator member is supplied by a dispensing mechanism actuated by the moving together of the first and second jaws.

7. The device as claimed in claim 6, comprising: a flexible duct through which the product flowing from the reservoir to the applicator member passes, a rotary pressing element that acts on the flexible duct in the manner of a peristaltic pump, this pressing element being carried by one of the first and second jaws, an actuating relief carried by the other of the first and second jaws, for actuating the pressing element when the first and second jaws are moved together.

8. The device as claimed in claim 6, wherein the dispensing mechanism is adjustable with the aid of an adjusting member so as to be able to modify a rate at which the applicator member is supplied with product, the second jaw comprising a block for placing the lock of hair against the applicator member, the block being able to move relative to the second jaw carrying it and its movement being controlled by the adjusting member.

9. The device as claimed in claim 8, wherein the block passes into a position of maximum compression of the applicator member on closure of the first and second jaws, when the adjusting member is in a position in which the dispensing mechanism is not actuated.

10. The device as claimed in claim 1, comprising a dispensing end piece for supplying the applicator member with product, having at least one product dispensing orifice that leads to the applicator member.

11. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the reservoir is offset relative to the first and second jaws.

12. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the reservoir comprises an absorbent element impregnated with product, the absorbent element carrying the applicator member.

13. The device as claimed in claim 1, comprising a felt defining the applicator member and at least a part of the reservoir containing the product to be applied.

14. The device as claimed in claim 13, wherein the felt is fitted by being slid over the first jaw.

15. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the applicator member is compressible and the device comprises a counter-bearing surface against which the applicator member is compressed when the first and second jaws are moved together.

16. The device as claimed in claim 1, comprising two heating elements disposed on one of the first and second jaws in a manner spaced apart from one another, making it possible to carry out a heat treatment by contact with the hair, the steam outlet being located between these heating elements.

17. The device as claimed in claim 1, which does not have a water reservoir carried by the same arm as the one on which the steam outlet is provided, the water being provided by a base station.

18. The device as claimed in claim 1, comprising a block carried by the second jaw, the block being produced so as to comprise a removable cover which, in order to prevent the application of cosmetic product to the hair, can take up a configuration in which it serves as a protective cover for the applicator member.

19. The device as claimed in claim 1, comprising a block carried by the second jaw, the block being a felt impregnated with cosmetic product.

20. A process for treating the hair with the aid of a treatment device as defined in claim 1, wherein, the device is moved along a lock of hair, such that the latter is exposed, in a single operation, to an application of steam, of cosmetic product and to heating in contact with a hot surface.

21. The process as claimed in claim 20, wherein the lock of hair is further combed by the device while the latter is being moved along the lock.

22. The device as claimed in claim 1, comprising only one applicator member for applying a cosmetic product.

23. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the steam outlet and the heating element are offset relative to a direction of movement over the lock.

24. The device as claimed in claim 1, comprising two heating elements disposed on one of the first and second jaws in a manner spaced apart from one another, making it possible to carry out a heat treatment by contact with the hair, wherein the steam is produced by a vaporization member thermally independent of the heating elements, the steam outlet being located between the heating elements.

25. The device as claimed in claim 1, comprising two heating elements disposed on one of the first and second jaws in a manner spaced apart from one another, making it possible to carry out a heat treatment by contact with the hair, wherein the steam outlet is positioned between the heating elements and the applicator member relative to a direction of movement over the lock.

26. A device for treating the hair, comprising: a reservoir containing a cosmetic product to be applied, this cosmetic product being contained in the fluid state in the reservoir, a first jaw and a second jaw that are pivotable with respect to one another by an articulation and are able to take up a spaced-apart configuration for introducing a lock of hair between the first and second jaws and a moved-together configuration for treating the lock of hair, the first and second jaws being movable along the lock in this moved-together configuration, an applicator member for applying the cosmetic product, said applicator member being carried by the first jaw and being designed to come into contact with the hair in the closed position, the applicator member applying the cosmetic product in a liquid form, a steam outlet on the second jaw, for exposing the hair introduced into the device to steam, wherein the steam outlet and the applicator member are offset relative to the direction of movement over the lock, the applicator member being configured for applying the cosmetic product independently of spraying of the steam by the steam outlet.

27. A device for treating the hair, comprising: a reservoir containing a cosmetic product to be applied, this cosmetic product being contained in the fluid state in the reservoir, a first jaw and a second jaw being carried respectively by an upper arm and a lower arm and that are pivotable with respect to one another by an articulation between the upper and lower arms and are able to take up a spaced-apart configuration for introducing a lock of hair between the first and second jaws and a moved-together configuration for treating the lock of hair, the first and second jaws being movable along the lock in this moved-together configuration, one heating element carried by one of the first and second jaws and disposed so as to come into contact with the lock of hair introduced between the first and second jaws, only one applicator member for applying the cosmetic product in liquid form, said applicator member being carried by the first jaw and being configured for coming into contact with the hair in the closed position, the applicator member comprising a porous material, only one steam outlet for exposing the hair introduced into the device to steam, said steam outlet being on the second jaw, the applicator member and the heating element being offset relative to a direction of movement over the lock, wherein the steam outlet and the applicator member are offset relative to the direction of movement over the lock.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

(1) The invention may be better understood from reading the following detailed description of non-limiting implementation examples thereof and from examining the appended drawing, in which:

(2) FIG. 1 is a schematic and partial perspective view of a handpiece produced in accordance with the invention, the jaws being in the closed configuration,

(3) FIG. 2 shows a top view of the device, with the assembly that forms a refill removed,

(4) FIG. 3 shows a top view of the lower arm on its own,

(5) FIG. 4 shows the assembly that forms a refill on its own,

(6) FIG. 5 is an exploded view showing certain components of the assembly that forms a refill,

(7) FIG. 6 is a schematic cross section through the handpiece,

(8) FIGS. 7 to 9 are views similar to FIG. 6 of variant embodiments of the handpiece,

(9) FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a variant embodiment of the assembly that forms a refill,

(10) FIG. 11 is a front view of the assembly that forms a refill from FIG. 10,

(11) FIGS. 12A to 12D illustrate the cooperation between the pressing element and the flexible duct,

(12) FIG. 12E shows a variant embodiment of the pressing element,

(13) FIG. 13 shows the dispensing end piece on its own, and

(14) FIG. 14 is a cross section along XIV-XIV in FIG. 13,

(15) FIG. 15A shows the protective cover on its own,

(16) FIG. 15B illustrates the cooperation between the protective cover and the applicator member,

(17) FIGS. 16A and 16B illustrate the use of the block as a protective cover,

(18) FIG. 17 shows a front view of a variant embodiment of the handpiece,

(19) FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the variant embodiment from FIG. 17,

(20) FIG. 19 illustrates a variant embodiment of the refill, and

(21) FIG. 20 illustrates the introduction of the refill from FIG. 18 into the handpiece.

(22) FIG. 1 shows the handpiece 2 of an example of a device for treating the hair according to the invention.

(23) This handpiece 2 has two jaws 3 and 4 that are able to move with respect to one another between a spaced-apart configuration (not shown) for the introduction between said jaws of a lock of hair, and a moved-together configuration for treatment, illustrated in FIG. 1.

(24) The jaws 3 and 4 are carried by an upper arm 5 and a lower arm 6, respectively, which, in the example in question, are connected together at one end by an articulation 8, the handpiece 2 thus forming tongs.

(25) The arms 5 and 6 define, between the articulation 8 and the jaws 3 and 4, respective half-handles 10 and 11 on which the user can press in order to move the jaws 3 and 4 together.

(26) An elastic return member (not visible) is preferably provided to return the jaws 3 and 4 to a spaced-apart configuration, this elastic return member being for example a spring disposed around an articulation pin 8.

(27) The invention is not limited to a particular manner of connecting the arms 5 and 6 together and the jaws 3 and 4 may be rendered able to move in some other way without departing from the scope of the present invention. However, the presence of an articulation is largely preferred for the ergonomics it provides.

(28) The jaws 3 and 4 define between one another a region for treating the hair, said region being intended to receive a lock of hair to be treated, the handpiece 2 being moved along said lock during the treatment, for example in the direction from the root to the end of the hair.

(29) In the example in question, the device is configured to apply a cosmetic product, to treat the hair by way of steam and to carry out a heat treatment of the hair by contact with one or more hot surfaces.

(30) The direction D of movement of the handpiece 2 over the hair is preferably substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X thereof.

(31) The handpiece 2 is connected by a line 17, in the example in question, to a base station (not shown) that is fixed during the treatment and is connected to the mains.

(32) This base station provides the electric power supply to the handpiece 2 and also its supply with water in order to generate steam, and may also carry out additional functions of processing electrical signals received from the handpiece 2. The line 17 which connects the handpiece 2 to the base station can thus comprise various electrical conductors and a water supply pipe.

(33) A user interface (not shown in the figures) can be present on the handpiece so as to allow the user for example to start up certain components thereof, or not.

(34) The heat treatment is provided by two heating elements 14 and 15, visible in particular in FIG. 6, that are carried by the upper arm 5 and lower arm 6, respectively, each having a plate that defines a hot surface 16 for bringing into contact with the hair.

(35) The plates of the heating elements 14 and 15 are made of any material suitable for the treatment to be carried out, for example a metal, ceramic or glass.

(36) The surface state of the plates, in the region of contact with the hair, depends on the desired treatment, and preferably the plates are smooth when the device is intended to straighten the hair.

(37) The length l of the plates defines the extent of the treatment region perpendicularly to the direction D of movement of the handpiece 2 relative to the hair. The hot surfaces 16 defined by the plates are for example flat and have a rectangular contour, as illustrated in FIG. 3.

(38) One of the plates is for example mounted in a fixed manner on the corresponding arm while the other is mounted in an articulated manner, for example with the aid of a ball joint, so as to allow the plates to extend parallel to one another and to a median treatment plane in the closed configuration of the jaws. If appropriate, at least one of the plates is disposed on one of the arms 5 and 6, being supported by a structure that forms a spring.

(39) The heating elements 14 and 15 may each comprise an electrical resistor electrically powered by the base station, preferably with temperature regulation by virtue of one or more sensors disposed in the vicinity of the heating resistors or in contact with the plates.

(40) Treatment with steam is ensured by virtue of a vaporization member 18 consisting of a resistive element provided in an evaporation chamber 19 supplied with water by the base station. The latter may comprise an electrically driven pump, preferably a peristaltic pump, that draws up water to be sent to the handpiece 2 from a reservoir of water. The pump is for example as disclosed in the publication FR 2 967 018. The evaporation chamber may be produced in accordance with the teaching in the application EP 2449909A1 or otherwise, and communicate with at least one steam outlet.

(41) The evaporation chamber 19 is disposed on one of the arms, namely the lower arm 6 in the example in question, and the steam outlet is provided on the same arm 6.

(42) In the example illustrated, the steam outlet is in the form of a ramp 21 with a shape that is elongate in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis X of the handpiece 2.

(43) The ramp 21 may comprise, as illustrated, a number of orifices 22 for spraying steam, for example between 6 and 10 orifices, which are preferably distributed evenly along the ramp 21 and each have an axis oriented substantially perpendicularly to the median treatment plane.

(44) The vaporization member 18 is electrically powered by the base station and a temperature sensor is advantageously disposed in the evaporation chamber 19. The base station may be produced so as to control the electric power supply of the vaporization member 18 in order to keep the temperature of the steam leaving the evaporation chamber at a value of between 110° C. and 130° C.

(45) The application of the cosmetic product is ensured by an applicator member 23, shown schematically in FIG. 6, disposed so as to come into contact with the hair extending through the treatment region.

(46) The cosmetic product is preferably contained in a reservoir 25 carried by the upper arm 5 of the handpiece 2, this reservoir 25 being visible in FIG. 4.

(47) The reservoir 25 is for example a flexible-walled sachet which can empty in an airless manner.

(48) The applicator member 23 is supplied with the aid of a product dispensing mechanism which is actuated automatically during the use of the handpiece 2, for example in order to apply a quantity of product to the hair, such that a mass of one gram of hair made up of hair with a length of 20 cm receives between 0.05 and 0.4 g, better still between 0.1 and 0.2 g of product in the case of a care product, or even more in the case of thermal straightening, dyeing or chemical straightening products, the quantity received then being for example between 5 and 10 g.

(49) The quantity of product applied to the hair may be modified with the aid of an adjusting member 62 that acts on the dispensing mechanism.

(50) A supply system makes it possible to supply the applicator member 23 with product in some other way than by capillary action from the reservoir. This supply system comprises, in the example in question, a dispensing end piece 30, visible in FIG. 5, which is connected to the reservoir 25 by a flexible duct 32. Said reservoir 25 is preferably disposed in a removable manner on the handpiece 2 so as to be easy to replace, in particular from one use to another.

(51) In the example in question, the applicator member 23 comprises a diaphragm made of a material that is permeable to the cosmetic product, preferably a diaphragm formed from an open-cell foam. This diaphragm 23 is carried by a support 34 which is in the form for example of an elongate frame, as illustrated in FIG. 5, and can be fixed for example by snap-fastening in a corresponding housing of the upper arm 5.

(52) The dispensing end piece 30 is preferably designed to deliver the product in one direction through at least one dispensing orifice 40 that is visible in FIG. 13, is closed at rest and can open under the pressure of the upstream product.

(53) In the example in question, the dispensing end piece 30 comprises a number of dispensing orifices 40 disposed in line with one another so as to deliver the product along the applicator member 23.

(54) Preferably, the dispensing end piece 30 is elastically deformable such that the internal volume can be increased in order to collect product coming from the reservoir 25 before it is dispensed, and the dispensing orifice(s) 40 is/are designed to only open following such an increase in volume. Thus, it is possible to spread out the dispensing of product over a period of time greater than that for which the action of filling the dispensing end piece 30 lasts.

(55) Prolonged dispensing of the product is useful in order to ensure application that is as homogeneous as possible right along the treated lock and to reduce the risk of product being present in a quantity that is not suitable.

(56) Preferably, the supply system is designed such that the dispensing of the product after the jaws have been moved together lasts for more than 10 s, in particular between 10 and 30 s, for example around 20 s, or more or less the average time for treating a lock for most users.

(57) A particularly simple and effective way of obtaining prolonged dispensing of the product is to use a dispensing end piece 30 with a tubular shape closed at one end, and made of an elastomeric material, for example having a hardness of Shore 55, and to provide it with a number of dispensing orifices 40 in the form of slots that are closed at rest and are capable of opening by elastic deformation under the pressure of the upstream product. The slots are preferably produced by cutting, so as to close with proper sealing at rest. The slots may be aligned along a diametric median plane of the end piece 30. The length d of each slot may range from 1 to 5 mm. The slots may have an identical length and are preferably distributed evenly along the dispensing end piece 30. The interval w between two consecutive slots is for example from 1 to 5 mm. The dispensing end piece 30 comprises for example a tubular body with a wall thickness e of between 0.3 and 2 mm, for example with an inside diameter of 3.2 mm and an outside diameter of 5 mm, and made of silicone or some other material such as EPDM (rubber).

(58) Preferably, the applicator member 23 comes into contact with the dispensing end piece 30 next to the orifices 40 so as to absorb the product delivered thereby as soon as it exits.

(59) Filling of the dispensing end piece 30 under pressure can be carried out in various ways. A particularly simple and effective way is to use, as illustrated in particular in FIGS. 12A to 12E, a pressing element 50 such as a roller or a cam which is able to move on the upper arm 5 so as to be able to bear, during its movement, against the flexible duct 32 connecting the reservoir 25 to the dispensing end piece 30 and to pinch it, and then to progressively squeeze it in the direction of the dispensing end piece 30 in order to drive the product contained inside the flexible duct towards the dispensing end piece, in the manner of a peristaltic pump. The duct 32 remains pinched as long as the jaws 3 and 4 are closed over the hair, this making it possible to keep the dispensing end piece 30 under pressure and to force the product to leave it through the orifices 40.

(60) The pressing element 50 is actuated by a relief 60, such as a lug, which is carried by the lower arm 6, this relief 60 coming into contact with the pressing element 50 when the jaws are moved together.

(61) On its opposing faces 58, the pressing element 50 may comprise two pairs 82 and 83 of lugs that are inserted into guide slots 81 provided on uprights 85. These slots are oriented substantially perpendicularly to the axis of the flexible duct 32 extending between the uprights 85. The length of the slots 81 is greater than the distance taken up by the lugs 82 and 83 on one and the same side of the pressing element 50, thereby allowing the pressing element 50 to move first of all substantially in translation, in the slots 81, in order to pinch the flexible duct 32 (FIGS. 12B and 12C), under the pushing action of the relief 60. The slots 81 each have a notch 87 which allows the pressing element 50 then to tilt, progressively squeezing the flexible duct 32, the lugs 82 engaging in the notches 87 as the pressure by the relief 60 on the pressing element 50 continues.

(62) The relief 60 initially presses against a surface of the pressing element 50 which may be located substantially in line with the two slots 81 for guiding the pressing element 50.

(63) Preferably, the relief 60 is carried by the adjusting member 62. The adjusting member may be a slider which is movable in the longitudinal direction X relative to the lower arm 6, so as to drive the pressing element 50 in rotation over a relatively large or small angular travel depending on its position, or even not to press at all against the pressing element 50 in an end position in order to operate the device without cosmetic product being dispensed. By virtue of the adjusting member 62, the user benefits from the possibility of acting on the flow rate of cosmetic product delivered on each closure of the jaws 3 and 4. The adjustment can be carried out continuously or incrementally, depending on the manner in which the adjusting member 62 is able to move on the arms. In the example illustrated, the adjusting member 62 is able to move continuously in a slideway 63.

(64) FIG. 12E shows a variant pressing element 50 which has a more elongate shape, is more particularly suited to adjustment of the dose delivered by modification of the point at which the actuating relief 60 is initially pressed by the adjusting member 62.

(65) In the example in question, the supply system for the applicator member 23 does not have a non-return valve other than at the dispensing orifices 40 of the dispensing end piece 30, thereby increasing the reliability of operation of the device by reducing the risk of blockage of a valve following a prolonged period of non-use. If appropriate, the reservoir 25 may be equipped with a filling valve, in particular when it is intended to be refilled in situ. When a pump other than a peristaltic pump as above is used to supply the applicator member with product, the supply system may comprise an additional non-return valve between the reservoir and a variable-volume chamber of the pump then used.

(66) It is particularly advantageous for the reservoir 25, the dispensing end piece 30 and the duct 32 which connects them to be presented to the user as a unitary assembly forming a refill 100, as illustrated in FIG. 4, since this makes it easier to replace them when the product contained in the reservoir 25 is used up.

(67) Preferably, this unitary assembly forming a refill 100 comprises a structure 101 that makes it easier to handle, such as a casing or any other form of support. In the case of a casing, the latter preferably comprises an opening for the pressing element 50 to pass through.

(68) In the example in question, the structure 100 comprises a shell that defines a part of the back of the upper arm 5, as can be seen in particular in FIG. 1, partially covering the jaw 4 and defining the half-handle 10.

(69) If appropriate, the unitary assembly forming a refill 100 may comprise an identifier recognized by the device, this allowing at least one of the following additional functions: automated adjustment of one or more operating parameters of the device depending on the knowledge of the nature of the product by the base station, which follows from the recognition of the identifier, display of information that guides the user in operations to be carried out depending on the nature of the product contained in the refill, knowledge of the capacity of the reservoir fitted and the output of a signal warning the user or preventing operation of the device when the product has been used up or is below a predefined volume, assuming that the device knows the number of doses dispensed, for example by counting the number of times that the jaws have been moved together, passage into a predefined state of the device, in particular a non-operating state, if the presence of the reservoir is not detected, for example output of a warning signal, preventing operation in the event of non-recognition of an identifier having an authentication function.

(70) The assembly forming a refill can be identified mechanically and/or electronically. In the latter case, the assembly forming a refill may carry an electronic chip in which the useful information is contained and one of the arms may carry corresponding reading means.

(71) The assembly forming a refill may be fitted from above, as in the example illustrated. In a variant, it may be fitted in some other way.

(72) The applicator member 23 is disposed opposite a counter-bearing surface defined by a block 66 carried by the lower arm 6. This counter-bearing surface is preferably substantially in the form of a half cylinder of revolution, with a generatrix parallel to the axis X. The block 66 may help to channel the steam exiting the ramp 21 toward the hair. When the jaws 3 and 4 are closed, the block 66 bears against the applicator member 23. Preferably, the block 66 slightly compresses the applicator member 23, for example over a distance of between 1 and 5 mm.

(73) The block 66 is preferably made of a plastics material.

(74) In a variant, the block 66 may be made of felt and be impregnated with cosmetic product in order to allow the application of product. This configuration allows an application of product by the two jaws 3 and 4.

(75) The radius of curvature of the counter-bearing surface is for example between 2 and 10 mm.

(76) The block 66 may be able to move relative to the jaw 4 which carries it and its movement may be controlled, at least partially, by the adjusting member 62. Preferably, the latter controls the movement of the block 66 along an axis at right angles to the longitudinal axis of the jaw 4 which carries it.

(77) The block 66 may be in a position of maximum compression of the applicator member 23 when the adjusting member 62 is in an end position, in order for the device to operate without cosmetic product being dispensed. When the jaws 3 and 4 are closed, this position may make it possible to wipe the applicator member 23 in order, in particular, to limit the quantity of cosmetic product contained in the applicator member 23 after use.

(78) The adjusting member 62 may act on the block 66 by way of a cam that acts on a transmission disposed between the cam and the block 66.

(79) The applicator member 23 may be covered at least partially, and better still entirely, with a removable protective cover 69, illustrated in FIGS. 15A and 15B, for preventing the application of cosmetic product to the hair and protecting and preserving the applicator member 23 impregnated with cosmetic product from the outside environment, in particular from dust and the ambient air which may dry it out.

(80) The protective cover 69 may be rigid or semi-rigid and be secured or not secured to the handpiece 2 in a permanent manner. The protective cover 69 may be mounted in a pivoting manner on the lateral part of the jaw 3 carrying the applicator member 23. The cover may take up a first, open configuration allowing the application of cosmetic product and a second, closed configuration, following pivoting with respect to the first configuration, in particular by virtue of a hinge. In the second configuration, illustrated in FIG. 15B, the cover can come into contact with the applicator member 23 so as to at least partially cover it.

(81) The protective cover 69 may be realized so as not to hamper the use of the device when it is in position on the applicator member 23, allowing the hair to move in contact therewith. In particular, the thickness of the protective cover 69 is preferably sufficiently small to allow a portion of hair, introduced between the jaws 3 and 4, to move relative to the latter when the handpiece 2 is drawn from the root of the hair toward the end. The protective cover 69 makes it possible to be able to straighten the hair without applying product. The user can straighten his or her hair by applying the product, then adding the protective cover 69 in order to continue straightening his or her hair without overloading it with product.

(82) The handpiece 2 advantageously comprises a comb 70, as illustrated in particular in FIG. 2, which is preferably fastened removably to the lower arm 6. This comb 70 is produced for example from a rigid thermoplastic material and has a shape that is elongate along the longitudinal axis X of the handpiece 2.

(83) Preferably, as illustrated, the length of the comb 70 is at least equal to that of the plates that define the hot surfaces 16. The height of the teeth 71 of the comb 70 is for example between 5 mm and 15 mm and the number of teeth between 20 and 80.

(84) Preferably, the device is realized, as illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 6, such that a portion of hair introduced between the jaws 3 and 4, and moving relative thereto when the handpiece is drawn from the root of the hair to the end thereof, is successively subjected to exposure to the cosmetic product, by passing between the applicator member 23 and the block 66, to the steam by passing in line with the ramp 21 for spraying steam, and to a heat treatment by passing between the hot surfaces 16.

(85) The handpiece 2 may advantageously have on its top a marker 108, visible to the user, such as an arrow, informing said user of the correct direction of movement of the device.

(86) The comb 70 is preferably located on the lower arm 6, between the ramp 21 and the hot surfaces 16, as can be seen in particular in FIG. 2. The comb is introduced for example by being slid into its housing.

(87) The presence of the comb 70 is advantageous in that it divides the lock into bundles, this tending to increase the contact surface of the hair with the hot surfaces 16 and to improve the straightening action. In addition, by dividing the lock, the surface area for exchange with the steam and the cosmetic product is also increased, to the benefit of the effectiveness of the treatment. The comb 70 can also help to increase the traction exerted on the hair, and this can improve the shaping thereof, in particular in the case of straightening. The comb 70 can also help to homogenize the product deposited upstream on the hair by the applicator member 23.

(88) The steam treatment can improve the penetration of the product deposited upstream on the hair. The heat treatment makes it possible to dry the hair and to fix its shape.

(89) Numerous modifications can be made to the device that has just been described, without departing from the scope of the present invention.

(90) In a variant that is not illustrated, the heating elements and the associated hot surfaces are absent, the device being designed to only effect the application of the cosmetic product and the exposure to the steam, for example in the context of haircare or a dyeing treatment.

(91) In variants that are illustrated in FIGS. 7 to 9, there are multiple heating elements on each of the arms, this being able to allow the handpiece 2 to be used in any direction of movement on the hair, if appropriate. The device may also retain a preferred direction of movement during the treatment, even when there are multiple heating elements on each of the arms.

(92) The heating elements carried by one and the same arm may comprise plates with an identical width and operate simultaneously.

(93) In order to obtain a symmetrical treatment regardless of the direction of movement, the device may comprise two steam outlets 21 on either side of the applicator member 23 for applying cosmetic product and between the hot surfaces 16, as illustrated in FIG. 8.

(94) If there are multiple heating elements on each of the arms, the applicator member for applying cosmetic product may be disposed away from the heating elements, as illustrated in FIG. 9, only one steam outlet being present between the plates 16.

(95) In the example in FIG. 9, the movement over the hair is preferably carried out such that the cosmetic product is deposited first. In a variant that is not illustrated, at least one of the heating elements is realized so as to be able to rotate in contact with the hair when the handpiece is moved along the lock to be treated, and is in the form for example of a rotary cylinder. The other heating element may have a concave curved shape, suitable for accommodating the roller when the jaws are moved together.

(96) The steam spraying direction may be non-perpendicular to the median treatment plane, in order to increase the area impacted by the jet of steam, with an inclination of 0 to 20° with respect to the normal, for example. The jet exiting each outlet orifice of the ramp 21 (also known as a nozzle) may be sufficiently divergent to result in substantially uniform exposure of the lock in the direction of its width.

(97) The reservoir 25 of product may be produced in some other way and be disposed differently on the handpiece, being for example contained with the supply system and the applicator member 23 in a casing 101 as illustrated in FIGS. 10 and 11, which is fixed to the upper arm 5 at the corresponding jaw 3. This casing 101 may comprise a cover 109 that opens upward, freeing up access to the reservoir 25, which may then, for example, be replaced independently of the other components of the refill 100.

(98) As illustrated in FIGS. 16A and 16B, the block 66 may comprise a removable part 66b that can act as a protective cover 69 for the applicator member 23 in order to prevent the application of product, and a fixed part 66a. When the jaws 3 and 4 are closed, the removable part 66b of the block 66 may be disposed by the user on the applicator member 23 and cover the latter at least partially, better still completely, in order, in particular, to protect it and to encourage the preservation of the product.

(99) Preferably, as illustrated in FIGS. 16A and 16B, the removable part 66b of the block 66 is formed so as to match the shape of the fixed part 66a of the block 66.

(100) In a first configuration illustrated in FIG. 16A, the removable part 66b of the block 66 may be carried by the fixed part 66a of the block 66 and serve as a counter-bearing surface.

(101) In a second configuration illustrated in FIG. 16B, the removable part of the block 66 may be turned round and be disposed on the jaw 3 carrying the applicator member 23, so as to cover the applicator member 23.

(102) In the example in FIGS. 1 to 16B, the reservoir 25 and the applicator member 23 are two separate elements, the reservoir 25 supplying the applicator member 23 by an intermediate element, namely the dispensing end piece 30. In a variant, as illustrated in FIGS. 17 to 20, the reservoir 25 and the applicator member 23 may form all or part of a refill 100, illustrated in FIG. 19, which does not have such an intermediate element. As illustrated in FIG. 17, the refill 100 may comprise an absorbent element, the upper part of which forms the reservoir 25 and the lower part of which, which is in contact with the hair by way of its free end surface when the device is closed, forms the applicator member 23.

(103) Preferably, the absorbent element is made of felt.

(104) The refill 100 may comprise, as illustrated in FIG. 19, a support 105, preferably made of plastics material, for fixing the assembly 100 to the jaw 3 that carries it. As illustrated in FIG. 20, fixing is preferably carried out by way of lugs 110 of the support 105 that are intended to be inserted into a slideway 108 of the jaw 3.

(105) The refill 100 may be taller than it is wide when viewed in section, as in FIG. 17. The felt contained in the refill may also be taller than it is wide.

(106) The applicator member 23 may be wiped in an adjustable manner in some other way than by the block 66 being moved relative to the jaw.

(107) In one variant, the device comprises a mechanism for adjusting the degree of tightening of the jaws, making it possible to tighten the jaws to a greater or lesser extent so as to wipe the applicator member to a greater or lesser degree against the counter-bearing surface. The adjusting mechanism may comprise a screw carried by one of the jaws, which is screwed to the other of the jaws and makes it possible to tighten the jaws by screwing.

(108) The device according to the invention is preferably used with a base station; in a variant, the handpiece is autonomous, comprising the reserve of water necessary for producing steam.

(109) The cosmetic product applied by the device according to the invention may be any type of haircare product. The expression cosmetic haircare product denotes a composition comprising one or more active ingredients for haircare use, and in particular a product as defined in directive 93/35/EC dated 14 Jun. 1993. Water in liquid or gaseous form which does not contain any additives for haircare use does not constitute a cosmetic product within the meaning of the present invention. The cosmetic product may be intended to make it easier to shape the hair. Examples of active agents are given for example in the publication US 2010/0307528 A1 in paragraphs [0031] and [0032]. The product may have an aqueous or non-aqueous base.

(110) The dispensing mechanism actuated when the jaws are moved together may be realized with any type of pump, in particular a valve-type pump, for example having a piston that is able to move in an alternating manner in a pumping chamber, the piston being moved so as to reduce the volume of the pumping chamber each time the jaws are moved together and returning to its initial position by a reverse movement when the jaws are moved apart.

(111) The dispensing mechanism may also comprise a pumping chamber produced with an elastically deformable wall, against which the other arm presses in order to reduce the volume thereof when the jaws are moved together and cause the product to flow back toward the applicator member. This chamber returns to its initial volume by way of its inherent elasticity when the jaws are moved apart, thereby making it possible to fill it with product coming from the reservoir. The variable-volume chamber may have a bellows, if appropriate. In the case of such a pumping mechanism, an anti-backflow valve is present between the reservoir and the pumping chamber, opening in the direction of flow from the reservoir to the pumping chamber.

(112) The system for dispensing product may also be realized without a pump with the aid of a movable bottom that moves unidirectionally in the reservoir, this movement being brought about by the moving together of the jaws. For example, the bottom is pushed by a rod which is driven incrementally and unidirectionally in movement each time the jaws are moved together.

(113) The supply system may also be realized so as to cause a dose of product to be dispensed only after the jaws have been moved together a predefined number of times.

(114) A window may be provided, if appropriate, so as to allow the user to see the degree of emptying of the reservoir. In a variant, each action of moving the jaws together increments a counter which is initialized on the installation of a new reservoir, this counter being able to be used to warn the user that complete emptying of the reservoir is imminent. The counter may also be used to signal to the user that the product is ready to be dispensed, when a particular number of actuations of the jaws is necessary before the product impregnates the applicator member, given the dead volume which it is necessary to start filling before the product is dispensed. When the moving together of the jaws is detected electrically, counting can be effected electronically by the base station.

(115) The mechanism for adjusting the quantity of product dispensed, when present, may be other than a slide and for example comprise a knob, the rotation of which acts on the degree of protrusion or the position of a relief which acts on the pressing element or on any other pump control mechanism. In a variant, the flow rate is adjusted at the arm which carries the reservoir, by virtue for example of an adjusting member which restricts the flow of the product to a greater or lesser extent or which pushes back, to a greater or lesser extent, a counter-bearing surface against which the flexible duct is compressed by the pressing roller during the operation of the peristaltic pump.

(116) In a further variant, the system for supplying the applicator member with product is driven in a motorized manner by virtue of an electric motor housed in the arm, or possibly in the assembly that forms a refill.

(117) In the examples which have just been described, the cosmetic product is not heated other than by heat losses due to the presence of the heating elements and the spraying of steam between the jaws. In one variant, the cosmetic product is heated by a specific heating means so as to raise the temperature thereof prior to application thereof, for example a heating resistor printed onto a sleeve through which the product passes or which is disposed on the reservoir or in contact therewith. This increase in temperature may have the effect of decreasing its viscosity and making it easier to apply.

(118) The applicator member may be produced in some other way than with a foam, for example with a felt, a frit or a brush. When the applicator member is intended to be replaced by the user, it may be fitted or not fitted by virtue of a support to which the applicator member is fixed.

(119) The support, when present, can be fixed in some other way than by snap-fastening, for example by being inserted into a housing in which it is retained by friction. This housing may open out, if appropriate, at its two opposite ends, and allow the automatic ejection of the applicator member present while the new one is being fitted, the latter expelling the old one by pushing it out of the housing.

(120) The device can be used by moving the jaws along a lock in order to straighten the hair. The device can also be used by winding the lock around a jaw and unwinding it by sliding it over this jaw in order to curl the hair.

(121) The device can be used in the hot state without steam production or without the heating elements being activated.

(122) In one variant, the steam outlet and the applicator member occupy substantially the same position relative to the direction of movement of the device over the lock of hair. In this case, the steam outlet orifice(s) is/are formed for example through a counter-bearing surface against which the applicator member bears when the jaws are closed.

(123) In the examples illustrated, the generation of steam takes place on the lower arm and the application of product on the upper arm. This arrangement can be reversed.

(124) It is possible for the dispensing end piece not to be elastically deformable and the product may be dispensed only during the moving-together movement of the jaws. An elastically deformable chamber for collecting the product may also be interposed on the path of the product between the duct against which the pressing element and the dispensing end piece bear, this chamber being formed for example by a portion of elastically deformable tube or by a diaphragm that is elastically deformable or able to move without inherent elasticity but comes into abutment against an elastic return member which deforms in order to accompany the increase in volume and which generates the pressure necessary to continue dispensing the product once the jaws have been moved together.

(125) The expression “comprising a” should be understood as being synonymous with “comprising at least one”, and the limits are included in all the ranges of values indicated.