Curling Iron with Rotationally Adjustable Handle

Abstract

A curling iron has a heatable barrel defining a lengthwise axis of the curling iron, a handle assembly having a grip, and a rotation mechanism coupled to a proximal end of the barrel and part of the handle assembly. The rotation mechanism permits rotation of at least part of the handle assembly relative to the barrel about the lengthwise axis of the curling iron between two or more different rotational orientations.

Description

BACKGROUND

1. Field of the Disclosure

The present invention is generally related to curling irons, and more particularly to a curling iron with a handle or handle portion that is rotationally adjustable relative to a barrel of the curling iron.

2. Description of Related Art

Consumers can often become frustrated with operating the control dial or viewing an LCD display when using a curling iron. Curling irons are often provided as electric appliances and include a control mechanism or dial to turn the device on and off and control the temperature of the curling iron barrel. Some devices are now provided with an LCD display and one or more buttons to control the on/off function and the temperature characteristics of the device. One issue with curling irons known as Marcel curling irons is that the digital LCD display may not be easily viewed by all users. If the consumer cannot see the display, the consumer cannot easily operate and control the device. Conventional Marcel curling irons typically employ an analog dial to control the performance aspects of the device such as the on/off function and temperature control. To alleviate the problem caused by placement of the Marcel clamp handle, the analog dial or control is placed on one side or the other of the curling iron.

Placing the control or an LCD display on one side of the curling iron to avoid the Marcel clamp handle results in a device being configured for only a right-handed user or only a left end user. An opposite handed user will have difficulty operating the device and/or viewing the display. Currently there are believed to be no electric Marcel-type curling irons that employ a digital LCD display positioned on top of the main barrel handle or gripping handle of the device because the Marcel clamp handle would obscure the display. Thus, these types of devices are typically configured for only a left-handed or right-handed user and do not easily accommodate opposite handed users.

Additionally, many conventional curling irons include a pivotable kickstand or barrel stand. Such a stand is used to support the heated barrel of the curling iron above a support service when the barrel is hot but the device is not in use. The typical stand is in the form of a U-shaped wire structure that pivots between a stowed position adjacent to the body of the curling iron and a use position extending downward from the curling iron body. However, the typical wire stand is made of metal and pivotally coupled directly to the heated barrel to avoid imbalance during use of the stand. Thu, a typical wire stand can get quite hot, which can raise safety concerns or issues.

SUMMARY

In one example according to the teachings of the present invention, a curling iron can have a barrel handle with a free end, a connected end, and a grip therebetween. The curling iron can also have a barrel with a distal end and a proximal end. A clamp assembly can have a clamp handle and a clamp arm connected to one another at a hinge structure pivotable about a hinge axis. The clamp arm can be movable by pivoting the clamp handle about the hinge axis between a closed position against the barrel and an open position spaced from the barrel. The curling iron has a rotation mechanism that can be located between and coupled to the connected end of the barrel handle and the proximal end of the barrel. The hinge structure can be pivotally connected to the rotation mechanism whereby the hinge axis is generally orthogonal to a lengthwise axis of the curling iron. The rotation mechanism can permit selective rotational adjustment about the lengthwise axis of the clamp handle relative to the barrel handle between at least two different rotational orientations.

In one example, the rotation mechanism can include a locking device moveable between a locked arrangement and an unlocked arrangement.

In one example, the curling iron can include a locking device that permits rotation of a clamp assembly relative to a barrel handle in an unlocked arrangement and inhibit rotation of the clamp assembly relative to the barrel handle in a locked arrangement.

In one example, a locking device of the rotation mechanism can be a collar rotatable between a locked position and an unlocked position.

In one example, a locking device of the rotation mechanism can permit the barrel and a clamp assembly to be detached as a unit from a barrel handle.

In one example, the barrel and a clamp assembly can be detachable and reattached as a unit to a barrel handle in any one of the at least two different rotational orientations.

In one example, a locking device of the rotation mechanism can include a spring biased element.

In one example, a spring biased element of the rotation mechanism can include one or more balls carried on a first part of the rotation mechanism and biased toward a positioning surface on a second part of the rotation mechanism having a plurality of ball seats therein.

In one example, a spring biased element of the rotation mechanism can include a ball biased in a direction generally along the lengthwise axis of the curing iron toward a positioning plate having ball seats therein. The ball seats can be positioned to define the at least two different rotational orientations and the ball can seat in a selected one of the seats.

In one example, a spring biased element of the rotation mechanism can include a plurality of balls biased radially outward relative to the lengthwise axis of the curling iron toward a positioning ring having ball seats therein. The ball seats can be positioned to define the at least two different rotational orientations and the balls can seat in selected ones of the seats.

In one example, the rotation mechanism can include prongs projecting from one of a barrel handle or a unit including the barrel and a clamp assembly and can include receptacles in the other of the barrel handle and unit. The prongs and receptacles can be arranged in corresponding patterns permitting attachment of the unit to the barrel handle in any one of the at least two different rotational orientations. In one example, the curling iron can include four of the prongs and four of the receptacles each arranged in corresponding square patterns.

In one example, a digital display can be provided on a barrel handle. The at least two different rotational orientations can include a first orientation with a clamp handle overlying the digital display and a second orientation with the clamp handle not overlying the digital display.

In one example, a heat control mechanism can be provided on a barrel handle. The at least two different rotational orientations can include a first orientation with a clamp handle overlying the heat control mechanism, a second orientation with the clamp handle rotated in one direction about the lengthwise axis and not overlying the heat control mechanism, and a third orientation with the clamp handle rotated in a direction opposite the one direction and not overlying the heat control mechanism.

In one example, the at least two different rotational orientations can include three optional orientations. A clamp assembly can rotate as a unit between the three optional orientations about the lengthwise axis.

In one example according to the teachings of the present invention, a curling iron has a heatable barrel defining a lengthwise axis of the curling iron, a handle assembly having a grip, and a rotation mechanism coupled to a proximal end of the barrel and part of the handle assembly. The rotation mechanism permits rotation of at least part of the handle assembly relative to the barrel about the lengthwise axis of the curling iron between two or more different rotational orientations.

In one example, the rotation mechanism can permit the handle assembly to be detached from the barrel and reattached to the barrel in any one of the two or more different rotational orientations.

In one example, the curling iron can include a clamp arm pivotally coupled to the curling iron and movable between a closed position against the barrel and an open position angularly spaced from the barrel.

In one example, the handle assembly can further include a barrel handle with a free end, a connected end, and a grip therebetween, and a clamp assembly having a clamp handle and a clamp arm connected to one another at a hinge structure pivotable about a hinge axis that is generally orthogonal to the lengthwise axis. The clamp arm can be movable by pivoting the clamp handle about the hinge axis between a closed position against the barrel and an open position spaced from the barrel. The clamp assembly can be rotatable relative to the barrel and the barrel handle between the two or more different rotational orientations.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become apparent upon reading the following description in conjunction with the drawing figures, in which:

FIG. 1 shows a side view of one example of a Marcel-type curling iron in an open position and constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention.

FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of a generic Marcel-type curling iron with a clamp handle rotationally adjusted to one side relative to the barrel handle.

FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of the Marcel curling iron shown in FIG. 2 with a clamp handle rotationally adjusted to the other side of the barrel handle.

FIG. 4 shows a side view of the curling iron shown in FIG. 1 and in a closed position.

FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of the curling iron shown in FIGS. 1 and 4 and with the barrel handle separated from the barrel and the Marcel clamp assembly, depicting components of the rotation mechanism.

FIG. 6 shows a cross-section taken along line 6-6 of the curling iron shown in FIG. 4.

FIG. 7 shows the curling iron in FIG. 6 with a locking element of the rotation mechanism being moved to an unlocked arrangement.

FIG. 8 shows the Marcel clamp assembly of the curling iron in FIG. 7 being rotationally adjusted from a neutral orientation to different rotational orientation.

FIG. 9 shows the Marcel clamp assembly of the curling iron in FIG. 7 in one optional rotational orientation.

FIG. 10 shows the Marcel clamp assembly of the curling iron in FIG. 7 in another optional rotational orientation.

FIG. 11 shows an alternate example of a Marcel clamp assembly and curling iron similar to those in FIGS. 6-10, but with a height adjustment mechanism and showing the clamp handle in a first optional height position.

FIG. 12 shows the clamp handle of the Marcel clamp assembly shown in FIG. 11 in a second optional height position.

FIG. 13 shows the clamp handle of the Marcel clamp assembly shown in FIG. 11 in a third optional height position.

FIG. 14 shows another example of a Marcel-type curling iron constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention and with a Marcel clamp assembly in a neutral orientation.

FIG. 15 shows the curling iron shown in FIG. 14 with the Marcel clamp assembly in a first optional different orientation.

FIG. 16 shows the curling iron shown in FIG. 14 with the Marcel clamp assembly in a second optional different orientation.

FIG. 17 shows a perspective view of the barrel handle portion of the curling iron shown in FIG. 14.

FIG. 18 shows a lengthwise vertical cross-section of the curling iron shown in FIG. 14.

FIG. 19 shows a cross-section taken along line 19-19 of the curling iron in FIG. 18 and showing the rotation mechanism and the Marcel clamp assembly in a neutral orientation.

FIG. 20 shows the curling iron shown in FIG. 19 with the Marcel clamp assembly in a first optional different orientation.

FIG. 21 shows the curling iron shown in FIG. 19 with the Marcel clamp assembly in a second optional different orientation.

FIG. 22 shows another example of a Marcel-type curling iron constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention and with a barrel handle portion separated from the barrel and Marcel clamp assembly.

FIG. 23 shows a cross-section through the assembled rotation mechanism of the curling iron shown in FIG. 22 and with the Marcel clamp assembly in a neutral orientation

FIG. 24 shows the curling iron shown in FIG. 23 with the Marcel clamp assembly in a first optional different orientation.

FIG. 25 shows the curling iron shown in FIG. 23 with the Marcel clamp assembly in a second optional different orientation.

FIG. 26 shows a perspective view of one example of a spring-type curling iron constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present invention is directed to a curling iron that can utilize a LCD or digital display on the barrel handle of the device where the display need not be obscured by any part of the device during use. The disclosed curling irons employ a handle assembly wherein at least a part of the handle assembly is rotatable about a lengthwise or longitudinal axis of the curling iron relative to the barrel. Rotational adjustment of the handle assembly can allow parts of the handle that might otherwise obscure viewing or accessing the display or controls to be moved out of the way without negatively affecting performance of the device. The disclosed curling irons are suitable for users of both left hand and right-hand dominance because the handle can be adjusted to suit either user. The disclosed curling irons are also constructed having a barrel stand connected to a non-metal portion of the curling iron. Thus, the stand will not become excessively hot during use.

The disclosed curling irons allow for optimal placement of an analog control or a digital or LCD display on the curling iron without affecting functionality. The handle or a portion thereof can be reoriented out of the way permitting a clear view or physical access to a digital or LCD display or an analog control device. The disclosed curling irons allow a user to set up the device for their particular needs. This will make their experience utilizing the curling iron more comfortable, ergonomically suitable, easier to use, and enjoyable. The disclosed curling irons also allow for specific user adjustment of the device to accommodate both left and right-hand users.

As used herein, the term “curling iron” means either a Marcel-type curling iron, a spring clamp curling iron, or any other type of curling iron that includes a barrel and a clamp adjacent the barrel to be used to pinch hair between the clamp and barrel. Additionally, the term “curling iron” is not intended to be limited to any particular size of curling iron, and therefore includes curling irons with barrels of different length or diameter, such as barrels of 0.75 inch, 1.0 inch, 1.25 inch, 1.5 inch, 2 inch diameter or the like. Additionally, the term “curling iron” is not necessarily limited herein to curling irons that are electric or that need to be plugged in. However, most curling irons with some type of analog control device or digital user interface are electric.

Turning now to the drawings, FIG. 1 shows one example of a curling iron 30 constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention. The curling iron 30 in this example is a Marcel-type structure where a user manually applies pressure to a part of the curling iron to hold or clamp against a heated part of the curling iron. Much of the curling iron 30 disclosed and described here in is of a conventional construction and will not be described in great detail. Those having ordinary skill in the art will be able to readily determine the configuration and construction for such conventional components.

The curling iron 30 in this example generally has a barrel 32 and a barrel handle 34 lengthwise aligned with one another and generally defining a longitudinal or lengthwise axis L of the curling iron. An electric cord 36 extends from a free end 38 of the barrel handle 34 as is known in the art. In this example, a digital display or LCD display 40 is positioned on a top of the barrel handle 34 and near a connection end 42 of the barrel handle. The display 40 can be used to monitor functional characteristics of the curling iron 30 and buttons (not shown) associated with the display can be utilized to operate the curling iron. The barrel 32 has internal heating elements and components (not shown) that are also known in the art and that keep the barrel for use. The barrel 32 in this example has a free or distal end 44 and a proximal end 46 positioned near the connection and 42 of the barrel handle. A hand grip 48 is provided on the barrel handle 34 generally between the free end 38 and the connection end 42. A user would typically utilize the handgrip 48 and the barrel handle 34 to manipulate the curling iron 30 during use.

A rotation mechanism 50 is positioned between and couples the barrel 32 to the barrel handle 34 in this example. Specific examples of the rotation mechanism 50 are described in greater detail below. However, in general, the rotation mechanism 50 provides the rotational adjustability of the overall handle assembly on the curling iron 30.

The curling iron 30 in this example also has a Marcel clamp assembly 52, which is shown in an open position in FIG. 1. The clamp assembly 52 as a substantially ordinary construction in this example. The clamp assembly 52 includes a clamp arm 54, which has a lengthwise curvature configured to match the overall curvature of the barrel 32 as is known in the art. During use, the clamp arm 54 pinches a user's hair against the barrel 32. The clamp assembly 52 also has a clamp handle 56 that is connected to the clamp arm 54 at a hinge structure 58. The hinge structure 58 is pivotally connected at a hinge axis 60 to a portion of the rotation mechanism 50 in this example. The clamp handle 56 is an elongate bar that can be gripped by a user to actuate the clamp arm 54, pivoting the clamp assembly about the pivot axis 60. The clamp handle 56 in this example extends generally in the longitudinal or lengthwise direction somewhat parallel to, but spaced from, the barrel handle 34.

Also as shown in FIG. 1, the curling iron 30 has a wire barrel stand 62 that is also pivotally connected to a portion of the rotation mechanism 50 in this example. By separating the stand 62 from the barrel 32, the stand will not be in direct contact with the heated elements of the curling iron 30. Thus, the stand 62 can be made of wire or metal without presenting or raising the safety issues and concerns of the prior art because it will not be conducting heat from the barrel through the wire. Additional details of the stand 62 are noted below.

FIGS. 2 and 3 illustrate perspective views of the curling iron 30. In FIG. 2, the clamp handle 56 has been rotationally adjusted from the neutral orientation shown in FIG. 1 directly over a top of the barrel handle 34 and display 40 to a first optional different orientation along one side of the barrel handle 34. In FIG. 3, the clamp handle 56 has been rotationally adjusted from the neutral orientation to a second optional different orientation along the other side of the barrel handle 34. The rotation mechanism 50 disclosed and described herein provides this functionality. As depicted in FIGS. 2 and 3, the display 40 is not obscured by the clamp handle 56 in either of the two optional positions or orientations. The clamp handle 56 would obscure viewing or access to the display 40 and buttons in the neutral orientation of FIG. 1. Different examples of the rotation mechanisms are described below.

FIG. 4 shows a side view of the curling iron 30 in a closed position whereby the clamp handle 56 has been pivoted about the hinge axis 60 to a position generally parallel to the barrel handle 34. The clamp arm 54 is borne against the barrel 32 in this closed position as is known in the art. In this example, the barrel 32 and the clamp assembly 52 are joined to one another by a first part 64 of the rotation mechanism 50 and are herein identified together as a barrel unit 66 for ease of description. A second part 67 of the rotation mechanism is carried on the barrel handle 34 in this example. The stand 62 in this example is pivotally connected to the first part 64 of the rotation mechanism. The hinge structure 58 and hinge axis 60 are on an extension 68 of the first part 64 of the rotation mechanism 50 in this example as well.

The rotation mechanism 50 employs a locking element that can be manipulated to either prevent or permit rotation of the barrel handle 34 relative to the barrel unit 66. The locking element in this example can also be manipulated to permit complete separation of the unit 66 from the barrel handle 34 as depicted in FIG. 5.

FIGS. 5 and 6 generally show the components of the rotation mechanism 50 in this example. The first part 64 of the rotation mechanism includes a first cylinder 70 protruding rearward from the first part. A pair of Valco-type balls 72 project one each from opposite sides of the cylinder through holes in the cylinder 70. The balls 72 are carried on opposite ends of a C-shaped spring 74 that is housed within the cylinder 70. The spring 74 biases the balls 72 through the holes to the exterior of the cylinder 70 as depicted in FIGS. 5 and 6. The bias force of the spring 74 retains the balls 72 projecting through the holes of the first cylinder 70.

The second part 67 of the rotation mechanism 50 has a second cylinder 76 with a plurality of apertures space circumferentially around the cylinder. The apertures 78a, 78b are formed in pairs with each pair configured to align with the position of the balls 72. In this example, since there are two of the balls 72, four of the apertures are provided including two vertically aligned apertures 78a and two horizontally aligned apertures. In this example, the first cylinder 70 is a female cylinder sized to fit within the cylinder 76, which can thus be defined as a male cylinder. The two cylinders 70, 76 are telescopically joined and can permit relative circumferential rotation between the two cylinders 70, 76 about the longitudinal axis L of the curling iron 30. The positioning of the male and female cylinders 76, 70 as well as the location of the apertures 78b and balls 72 carried thereon can be swapped between the barrel handle 34 and the unit 66 within the spirit and scope of the present invention.

With reference to FIGS. 6-8, the locking element of the rotation mechanism 50 can be manipulated between a locked arrangement depicted in FIG. 6 and a released or unlocked arrangement depicted in FIG. 8. In the locked arrangement of FIG. 6, with the clamp handle 56 in the neutral orientation, the balls 72 project through the vertical apertures 78a. When locked in this manner, the balls prevent circumferential rotation of the first cylinder 70 relative to the second cylinder 76 and prevent longitudinal separation of the two cylinders. In order to move the locking element to the unlocked arrangement, a user need only depress the balls 72 as depicted in FIG. 7 in the direction of the arrows D. By doing so, the balls 72 release from or clear the apertures 78a.

Once clear, the cylinders 70, 76 can be longitudinally separated from one another as represented in FIG. 5 or can be rotated relative to one another by rotating one or the other of the barrel handle 34 or unit 66. In one example, the clamp handle 56 can be rotated in the direction of the arrow R in FIG. 8 toward a first optional different orientation. In this partially rotated position, the balls 72 ride along the interior surface of the second cylinder 76 until reaching the second pair of apertures 78b. Once the balls 72 reach the apertures 78b, the spring 74 will fire the balls 72 into the apertures securing the clamp arm 56 in the first different optional orientation as depicted in FIG. 9. In this orientation, the clamp handle 56 is pivoted to one side of the barrel handle 34, exposing the top of the handle and the display 40. A user can optionally rotate the clamp assembly 56 in this example in the other direction to the second different optional orientation depicted in FIG. 10 on the other side of the clamp handle 56. The balls 72 will again fire into the apertures 78b. It is certainly possible to achieve the two or more different rotational orientations, i.e., clamp handle positions, by only allowing rotation in one direction, i.e., clockwise or counter clockwise, instead of two directions as shown and described. In such an example, the handle would always have to rotate in one direction to reach any of the positions or orientations available.

FIGS. 11-13 illustrate another optional adjustment feature that can be employed on any of the Marcel-type curling irons disclosed and described herein. In this example, an alternate clamp assembly 80 is depicted having a hinge structure 82 coupled to the first part 64 of the rotation mechanism 50. In this example, the clamp handle 84 is height adjustable at its connection point 86 to the hinge structure 82. The hinge structure 82 has a pair of resiliently flexible legs 88 that protrude upward into the clamp handle 84. Upper ends 90 of the legs 88 include multiple vertically spaced pairs of horizontally aligned openings 92. A pair of spring bosses 94 are provided internal to the clamp handle 84 and can seat in any one of the pair of openings 92 on the legs 88. As depicted in FIG. 11, the spring bosses 94 can be depressed inward in the direction of the arrows H in order to release the bosses from the selected pair of openings 92. The clamp handle can then be raised in the direction of the arrows A. The bosses 94 can then seat in any other pair of the openings 92 as the handle 84 is moved upward (or downward to lower the handle 84) relative to the upper ends 90 on the legs 88. FIG. 11 shows the clamp handle 84 in a lower-most adjusted position. FIG. 12 shows the clamp handle in a mid-height adjusted position. FIG. 13 shows the clamp handle in an uppermost height adjusted position. As will be evident to those having ordinary skill in the art, the optional clamp handle height adjust feature can optionally not be provided on the curling iron or can take on other configurations and constructions from the example shown.

FIGS. 14-16 depict another example of a curling iron 100, also of a Marcel-type, constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention. In this example, the curling iron 100 has a construction substantially similar to the curling iron 30 as previously described. Thus, like reference numerals referred to below and shown in the drawings are intended to identify like parts between the two examples. Specifically, only the rotation mechanism 102 in this example is significantly different from the earlier described rotation mechanism 50 of the prior example.

As generally depicted in FIG. 14, the clamp handle 56 in this example can be oriented in the neutral orientation as permitted by the rotation mechanism 102. The rotation mechanism 102 also permits rotation of the clamp handle 56 to a first different rotational orientation on one side of the barrel handle 34 as depicted in FIG. 15 and a second different rotational orientation on the other side of the barrel handle 34 as depicted in FIG. 16.

The entire barrel unit 66 of the curling iron 100 has been removed from the barrel handle 34 in FIG. 17. Thus, a second part 104 of the rotation mechanism 102 is shown. The second part 104 has a second cylinder 106. A positioning plate 108 is housed within the second cylinder 106. The positioning plate 108 is a flat disk with a plane oriented generally orthogonal to the longitudinal axis L of the curling iron 100. The positioning plate 108 has a plurality of positioning apertures 110a-c formed in plate surface 112. In this example, the apertures 110a-c are open in a longitudinal direction, whereas in the prior example, the apertures 78a and 78b were open in a radial direction relative to the axis L.

With reference to FIGS. 17 and 18, a coil spring 114 is positioned to bias a Valco-type ball 116 toward the surface 112 of the positioning plate 108. When the ball 116 is aligned with one of the apertures 110a-c, the ball will seat in and be biased and retained therein by the spring 114. The combination of the contact between the ball 72 and aperture 110a, b, or c, and the biasing force of the spring 114 will help to retain the relative orientation of the barrel handle 34 and the unit 66. The ball and spring, along with the aperture thus act as the locking element for the rotation mechanism 102 in this example.

FIG. 19 shows the clamp handle 56 in the neutral orientation directly above the top of the barrel handle 34. In this example, the ball 116 is seated in the uppermost aperture 110a. In order to rotationally adjust the curling iron 100, the user in this example must us torque to overcome the locking element by rotating the clamp handle 56 relative to the barrel handle 34 in opposite directions. The spring force, aperture size and depth, and ball size can be designed to permit the locking element to break away or unlock upon application of a desired force or torque. Once the ball 72 is released from the aperture 110a, the locking element is in an unlocked arrangement. The ball 116 can ride along the surface 112 of the positioning plate 108 as the clamp handle 56 is rotated from the neutral orientation of FIG. 19. As depicted in FIGS. 20 and 21, the clamp handle 56 can be rotated in either direction R until the ball 116 seats in one of the side apertures 110b, 110c. Similar to the prior examples, the clamp handle 56 can thus be positioned on one side or the other of the barrel handle 34 providing access to and a clear view of the display 40.

Referring again to FIG. 18, a first part 118 of the rotation mechanism 102 also includes a first cylinder 120 carried on the barrel unit 66. In this example, the other end of the spring 114 is born against an object within the first part 118 to support the spring. The first cylinder 120 is again configured to mate with the second cylinder 106, similar to the prior describes cylinders 70, 76. However, in this example, the rotation mechanism 102 need not be designed to permit complete separation of the barrel handle 34 from the unit 66. However, a rotational interlock between the two cylinders can be formed and provided to permit separation, such as if a certain degree of rotation past any one of the different side rotational orientations between the two components is achieved.

FIG. 22 illustrates yet another example of a curling iron 130, also of the Marcel-type, and constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention. Similar to the prior described curling iron 100, the curling iron 130 is also substantially similar to the curling iron 30 described previously. Thus, like reference numerals utilized below and in the drawings are intended to refer to like parts between the curling iron 130 and the prior described curling irons. Specifically, a rotation mechanism 132 in this example is the only significantly different structure in comparison to the prior examples.

As depicted in FIG. 22, a first part 134 of the rotation mechanism 132 is again carried on the barrel unit 66 and a second part 136 is again carried on the barrel handle 34 of the curling iron 130. In this example, the first part 134 has a female cylinder 138 designed to fit within a male cylinder 140 of the second part 136. The locking element of the rotation mechanism incorporates two separate features. One feature creates a plurality of different rotational orientations that can be achieved between the barrel handle 34 and the barrel unit 66 and the other feature permits complete separation of the two components.

One feature of the locking element includes a plurality of prongs 142a-d that project longitudinally rearward from an end 144 of the first part 134 on the rotation mechanism 132. In this example, the plurality of prongs includes four such prongs 142a-d arranged in a square pattern. One of the prongs 142a is shown as a shaded element as a reference prong to aid in the description. This feature also includes a plurality of holes or receptacles 146a-d in an end of face of the second cylinder 140. The receptacles 146a-d correspond both in number and pattern to the prongs 142a-d. The prongs 142a-d can be inserted into the receptacles 146a-d in a number of different rotational orientations as long as each prong aligns with one of the receptacles. Thus, the prongs and receptacles provide the rotational feature of the locking element for the rotation mechanism 132 this example. Once the prongs 142a-d are received in the receptacles 146a-d, the barrel handle 34 and the barrel unit 66 are rotationally locked and prevented from being rotationally adjusted relative to one another.

The other feature of the locking element includes a lock ring or collar 150 that is carried on the second part 136 of the rotation mechanism 132. In this example, the collar 150 has an indicator or tab 151 that projects outward from the ring. The collar can be rotated about the axis L between a locked and a released or unlocked position. These positions are represented by a locked indicia 152 and a released indicia 154 spaced apart on a surface of the barrel handle 34 adjacent the rotation mechanism 132. The collar 150 can carry or be coupled to a rotationally movable lock rib or flange 156 that is positioned at the interface between the first and second cylinders 138, 140. A lock groove 158 or mating structure can be provided in an exterior surface of the first cylinder 138. When the indicator 151 is aligned with the unlocked indicia 154, the rib or flange 156 and the groove 158 are rotationally misaligned with one another. In this unlocked arrangement, the first and second parts 134, 136 of the rotation mechanism 132 can be freely attached to and detached from one another. When attached to one another, the collar 150 can be rotated to the locked position with the indicator 151 aligned with the locked indicia 152. In this locked arrangement, the rib or flange 156 seats in the groove 158 and axially or longitudinally locks the barrel handle 34 and barrel unit 66 together.

In this example, the rotational locking element and the separation locking elements are independent of one another. The prongs and receptacles do not rotate when engaged. Instead, the barrel handle 34 and barrel unit 66 must be separated and then rotated to realign the prongs and receptacles in a different, selected or desired orientation. The collar 150 is utilized independently to lock the two components together in the desired rotational orientation. FIG. 23 depicts the clamp handle 56 in the neutral orientation directly over the top of the barrel handle 34 and overlying the display 40. In this orientation, the top-most, shaded, reference prong 142a is received in the corresponding top-most receptacle 146a and the prongs 142b-d are correspondingly received in the receptacles 146b-d. FIG. 24 depicts the clamp handle 56 rotated to one side of the barrel handle 34 whereby the shaded reference prong 142a is seated in the left-hand side receptacle 146b. The prongs 142b, 142c, 142d are correspondingly received in the receptacles 146c, 146d, and 146a, respectively. FIG. 25 depicts the clamp handle 56 rotated to the other side of the barrel handle 34 whereby the shaded reference prong 142a is seated in the right-hand side receptacle 146d. The prongs 142b, 142c, 142d are correspondingly received in the receptacles 146a, 146b, 146c, respectively.

As noted above, the rotationally adjustable handle can be provided on other types of curling irons that employ a clamp arm. With reference to FIG. 26, a spring-type curling iron 170 is depicted therein and is constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention. The curling iron 170 in this example has a clamp arm 172 pivotably movable relative to a heatable barrel 174. The curling iron 170 also has a handle 176 that is grasped by a user to manipulate and utilize the curling iron. The clamp arm is coupled to a thumb actuator 178 and is pivotably connected to the barrel 174. A spring mechanism (not shown) is utilized to bias the clamp arm 172 against the barrel 174. The thumb actuator 178 is depressed to overcome the spring mechanism, which in turn raises the clamp arm 172 from the closed position shown in FIG. 26 to an open position similar to that depicted in FIG. 1.

Any one of the rotation mechanisms 50, 102, or 132 could be utilized in conjunction with the curling iron 170 to rotationally connect the clamp arm 172 and thumb actuator 178 to the barrel 174 and handle 176. The thumb actuator and clamp arm could then be rotationally adjustable about a longitudinal axis of the curling iron 170 providing access to any side of the handle as desired, depending on the location of a display or controller and whether the user is right or left handed.

The various examples described herein can vary considerably within the spirit and scope of the present invention. The basic configuration and construction of the curling iron barrels, handles, grips, housings, displays, controllers, heating elements, cords, clamp assemblies, and the like are not necessarily intended to be limited by the specific examples provided herein.

Similarly, any one of the rotation mechanisms can be varied as well within the spirit and scope of the invention. In one alternate example not shown herein, a spring and ratcheting mechanism could be used that does not utilize a ball bearing, but instead uses mating or confronting grooved or toothed surfaces. The two mating surfaces in the assembly could be under spring tension holding the mating, engaged surfaces together or locked. The surfaces could be spread apart or disengaged along the lengthwise axis by applied torque or some other means and rotated into another orientation where the mating surfaces mate up or reengage again.

As noted above, the stand 62 in this example is a U-shaped wire structure with a base 180 and a pair of legs 182. The base is configured to provide a relative stable base on which the curling irons can rest when idle, even when hot or heating up. The stand 62 keeps the barrel 32 off the support surface. The legs are pivotally connected to the first part of the various rotation mechanisms herein, and not to the barrel 32. Thus, the stand will not conduct heat from the barrel. The configuration and construction of the stand can also vary considerably within the spirit and scope of the invention.

Although certain curling irons, handle arrangements, and rotation features have been described herein in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure, the scope of coverage of this patent is not limited thereto. On the contrary, this patent covers all embodiments of the teachings of the disclosure that fairly fall within the scope of permissible equivalents.

Claims

1. A curling iron comprising: a barrel handle with a free end, a connected end, and a grip therebetween;a barrel having a distal end and a proximal end;a clamp assembly having a clamp handle and a clamp arm connected to one another at a hinge structure pivotable about a hinge axis, the clamp arm movable by pivoting the clamp handle about the hinge axis between a closed position against the barrel and an open position spaced from the barrel; anda rotation mechanism located between and coupled to the connected end of the barrel handle and the proximal end of the barrel, the hinge structure pivotally connected to the rotation mechanism whereby the hinge axis is generally orthogonal to a lengthwise axis of the curling iron,wherein the rotation mechanism permits selective rotational adjustment about the lengthwise axis of the clamp handle relative to the barrel handle between at least two different rotational orientations.

2. A curling iron according to claim 1, wherein the rotation mechanism includes a locking device moveable between a locked arrangement and an unlocked arrangement.

3. A curling iron according to claim 2, wherein the locking device permits rotation of the clamp assembly relative to the barrel handle in the unlocked arrangement and inhibits rotation of the clamp assembly relative to the barrel handle in the locked arrangement.

4. A curling iron according to claim 2, wherein the locking device is a collar rotatable between a locked position and an unlocked position.

5. A curling iron according to claim 2, wherein the locking device permits the barrel and clamp assembly to be detached as a unit from the barrel handle.

6. A curling iron according to claim 5, wherein the unit can be reattached to the barrel handle in any one of the at least two different rotational orientations.

7. A curling iron according to claim 2, wherein the locking device includes a spring biased element.

8. A curling iron according to claim 7, wherein the spring biased element include one or more balls carried on a first part of the rotation mechanism and biased toward a positioning surface on a second part of the rotation mechanism having a plurality of ball seats therein.

9. A curling iron according to claim 7, wherein the spring biased element includes a ball biased in a direction generally along the lengthwise axis of the curing iron toward a positioning plate having ball seats therein, the ball seats positioned to define the at least two different rotational orientations, wherein the ball can seat in a selected one of the seats.

10. A curling iron according to claim 7, wherein the spring biased element includes a plurality of balls biased radially outward relative to the lengthwise axis of the curling iron toward a positioning ring having ball seats therein, the ball seats positioned to define the at least two different rotational orientations, wherein the balls can seat in selected ones of the seats.

11. A curling iron according to claim 1, wherein the barrel and clamp assembly are detachable as a unit from the barrel handle and attachable thereto in any one of the at least two different rotational orientations.

12. A curling iron according to claim 11, wherein the rotation mechanism includes prongs projecting from one of the barrel handle and the unit and receptacles in the other of the barrel handle and unit, the prongs and receptacles arranged in corresponding patterns permitting attachment of the unit to the barrel handle in any one of the at least two different rotational orientations.

13. A curling iron according to claim 12, further comprising four of the prongs and four of the receptacles each arranged in corresponding square patterns.

14. A curling iron according to claim 1, further comprising a digital display on the barrel handle and wherein the at least two different rotational orientations includes a first orientation with the clamp handle overlying the digital display and a second orientation with the clamp handle not overlying the digital display.

15. A curling iron according to claim 1, further comprising a heat control mechanism on the barrel handle and wherein the at least two different rotational orientations includes a first orientation with the clamp handle overlying the heat control mechanism, a second orientation with the clamp handle rotated in one direction about the lengthwise axis and not overlying the heat control mechanism, and a third orientation with the clamp handle rotated in a direction opposite the one direction and not overlying the heat control mechanism.

16. A curling iron according to claim 1, wherein the at least two different rotational orientations includes three optional orientations, and wherein the clamp assembly rotates as a unit between the three optional orientations about the lengthwise axis.

17. A curling iron comprising: a heatable barrel defining a lengthwise axis of the curling iron;a handle assembly having a grip; anda rotation mechanism coupled to a proximal end of the barrel and part of the handle assembly,wherein the rotation mechanism permits rotation of at least part of the handle assembly relative to the barrel about the lengthwise axis of the curling iron between two or more different rotational orientations.

18. A curling iron according to claim 17, wherein the rotation mechanism permits the handle assembly to be detached from the barrel and reattached to the barrel in any one of the two or more different rotational orientations.

19. A curling iron according to claim 17, further comprising a clamp arm pivotally coupled to the curling iron and movable between a closed position against the barrel and an open position angularly spaced from the barrel.

20. A curling iron according to claim 17, wherein the handle assembly further comprises: a barrel handle with a free end, a connected end, and a grip therebetween; anda clamp assembly having a clamp handle and a clamp arm connected to one another at a hinge structure pivotable about a hinge axis that is generally orthogonal to the lengthwise axis, the clamp arm movable by pivoting the clamp handle about the hinge axis between a closed position against the barrel and an open position spaced from the barrel,wherein the clamp assembly is rotatable relative to the barrel and the barrel handle between the two or more different rotational orientations.