阅读说明：本技术 用于干燥物体的设备 (Device for drying objects ) 是由 王铭钰 唐尹 徐兴旺 张蕾 于 2020-10-20 设计创作，主要内容包括：本公开涉及一种用于干燥物体的设备,该设备包括：壳体,该壳体提供具有气流入口和气流出口的气流通道；气流产生元件,该气流产生元件容纳在该壳体中并且产生通过该气流通道的气流；辐射能量源,该辐射能量源容纳在该壳体中并且产生红外辐射并将该红外辐射导向该壳体的外部,其中,该辐射能量源的输出与该气流出口是分开的；以及电源,该电源至少向该辐射能量源和该气流产生元件提供电力。(The present disclosure relates to an apparatus for drying objects, the apparatus comprising: a housing providing an airflow passage having an airflow inlet and an airflow outlet; an airflow generating element that is accommodated in the housing and generates an airflow through the airflow passage; a radiant energy source housed in the housing and generating and directing infrared radiation to an exterior of the housing, wherein an output of the radiant energy source is separate from the airflow outlet; and a power source that provides power to at least the radiant energy source and the airflow generating element.)

1. An apparatus for drying objects, the apparatus comprising:

a housing providing an airflow passage having an airflow inlet and an airflow outlet;

an airflow generating element that is accommodated in the housing and generates an airflow through the airflow passage;

a radiant energy source housed in the housing and generating and directing infrared radiation outside of the housing, wherein an output of the radiant energy source is separate from the airflow outlet; and

a power source providing power to at least the radiant energy source and the airflow generating element.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the radiant energy source comprises an infrared lamp.

3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the infrared lamp is plural.

4. The apparatus of claim 2 wherein the infrared lamp has a generally conical shape.

5. The apparatus of claim 2 wherein the infrared lamp has a generally annular shape.

6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the radiation emitter has a generally annular shape.

7. The apparatus of claim 4 or 5, wherein the infrared lamps surround the gas flow outlet.

8. The apparatus of claim 4 or 5, wherein the infrared lamp is surrounded by the gas flow outlet.

9. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the plurality of infrared lamps are arranged in an array or along a ring.

10. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein each of the plurality of infrared lamps has a generally conical shape.

Technical Field

The present disclosure generally relates to an apparatus for drying objects. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to hair dryers that utilize Infrared (IR) radiation to heat and remove water from the hair.

Background

Conventional hair dryers (e.g., hair dryers) blow hot air to dry wet hair. The hair dryer draws in room temperature air through a motor-driven impeller and heats the air stream through a resistive heating element (e.g., nichrome wire). The hot air flow raises the temperature of the hair and the air surrounding the hair. Evaporation of water from wet hair is accelerated because the elevated temperature promotes the individual molecules in the water droplets to overcome each other's attraction and change from a liquid to a gaseous state. The higher temperature in the air surrounding the hair also reduces the relative humidity around the wet hair, which further accelerates the evaporation process.

Conventional hair dryers use resistive heating elements to convert electrical energy into convective heat when heating the air stream. However, the heat transfer efficiency of convective heat transfer may be low because only a portion of the hot air stream reaches the hair and only a portion of the heat carried by the hot air stream reaching the hair is transferred to the hair and to the water on the hair (e.g., some heat is absorbed by the surrounding air). In addition, the convective heat used by conventional hair dryers can overexpose the hair to the hot air stream in order to completely dry the hair. The hair is heated only on the surface, which can lead to curling, drying and damage to the hair.

Disclosure of Invention

Accordingly, there is a need for an improved apparatus for drying hair and other objects (e.g., fabrics) with greater energy efficiency. In the drying apparatus of the present disclosure, Infrared (IR) radiation is used as a source of thermal energy to remove water and moisture from the object. The infrared radiation source may emit infrared energy to provide stable and consistent heat. Infrared energy can be directed at an object (e.g., hair) so that heat is transferred directly to the object in a radiative heat transfer, which improves heat transfer efficiency.

There is also a need for a compact and lightweight wireless device for drying objects. The wireless drying apparatus of the present disclosure may be powered by embedded batteries that may be charged and/or replaced, thereby making the drying apparatus portable and convenient. Due to the increased heat transfer efficiency and energy efficiency of the infrared radiation source, the operating time of the battery operated wireless drying apparatus can be extended while maintaining a high output power density to ensure a satisfactory drying effect.

An apparatus for drying objects is disclosed herein. The apparatus may include: a housing providing an airflow passage having an airflow inlet and an airflow outlet; an airflow generating element that is accommodated in the housing and generates an airflow through the airflow passage; a radiant energy source housed in the case and generating infrared radiation and directing the infrared radiation to an outside of the case; and a power source that provides power to at least the radiant energy source and the airflow generating element. The output of the radiant energy source is separate from the gas flow outlet.

In some examples, an air filter may be disposed at the airflow inlet. In some examples, the airflow-generating element may include a fan driven by a motor, rotation of the fan generating the airflow through the airflow channel when the fan is activated. The rotational speed of the fan is adjustable.

In some examples, the radiant energy source may include an infrared lamp. In one embodiment, the infrared lamp may comprise a laser device. The laser device may comprise an optical element which disperses the infrared radiation along a predetermined direction. In one embodiment, the infrared lamp may include a reflector having an opening toward an exterior of the housing, an optical element abutting the opening of the reflector, and a radiation emitter located at an interior of the reflector.

The optical element may be an optical lens. In one embodiment, the infrared lamp may have a substantially annular shape. The infrared lamp may surround the gas flow outlet, or the infrared lamp may be surrounded by the gas flow outlet. In one embodiment, the infrared lamp may have a substantially conical shape.

The radiation emitter may emit radiation having a wavelength in the range of 0.7 μm to 20 μm. The radiation emitter may comprise a conductive resistor, a ceramic heater or an LED. The reflector may have a degree of vacuum inside. For example, the pressure inside the reflector may be about 0.7 standard atmospheric pressure (atm) or less. The interior of the reflector may include an inert gas. For example, the inert gas may include argon or nitrogen.

The reflector may condition the infrared radiation toward the opening. For example, the reflector may direct the infrared radiation toward the opening. For example, the reflector may reduce the divergence angle of reflected infrared radiation. The reflective surface of the reflector may be substantially parabolic in cross-section. The reflective surface of the reflector may be coated with a coating material having a high reflectivity for the wavelength generated by the radiation emitter. For example, the coating material may have a high reflectivity for wavelengths in the infrared spectrum. The coating material may be selected from the group consisting of gold, silver and aluminum. The coating material may include a metal dielectric coating having alternating layers of dielectric material.

The optical element may filter out wavelengths in the visible spectrum and/or the ultraviolet spectrum from the radiation emitted by the radiation emitter. The optical element may converge the infrared radiation in a predetermined direction or reduce a divergence angle of the infrared radiation. In some examples, a portion of the airflow may be directed from the airflow channel to the optical element.

In some examples, the radiant energy source may include a plurality of infrared lamps. Each of the plurality of infrared lamps may include a reflector having an opening toward an exterior of the housing, an optical element abutting the opening of the reflector, and a radiation emitter located at an interior of the reflector.

The plurality of infrared lamps may be arranged along a ring shape. The ring may surround the gas flow outlet, or the ring may be surrounded by the gas flow outlet. In one embodiment, the plurality of infrared rays are emitted fromThe directions of the infrared radiation emitted by each of the infrared lamps in the lamp may intersect each other. The infrared radiation emitted from each of the plurality of infrared lamps may overlap at a preset distance in front of the airflow outlet. In some examples, the infrared radiation emitted from each of the plurality of infrared lamps may overlap at a distance of about 10 centimeters in front of the gas flow outlet to form a circular spot having a diameter of about 10 centimeters. The circular spot may receive at least 60% of the energy of the infrared radiation emitted from each of the plurality of infrared lamps. The average power density in the circular spot may be at least 1x10³Watt/square meter (W/m)²)。

In some examples, the power source may include one or more batteries received within the housing. The one or more batteries may be rechargeable and/or replaceable. The housing may include a body and a handle. The one or more batteries may be at least partially received within the handle. The handle is detachable from the body. In one embodiment, at least a portion of the airflow inlet may be disposed at the body. In one embodiment, at least a portion of the airflow inlet may be disposed at the handle. In one embodiment, at least a portion of the airflow outlet may be disposed at the body. In one embodiment, at least a portion of the airflow outlet may be disposed at the handle.

In some examples, the power source may include a power adapter connected to the power source by a cord. In one embodiment, the power source may comprise a battery external to the device. In one embodiment, the power source may include a power grid.

In some examples, the airflow channel may surround an outer perimeter of the radiant energy source. In some examples, the radiant energy source may surround an outer perimeter of the airflow passage.

In some examples, the temperature increase of the gas flow through the gas flow passage caused by the radiant energy source may not exceed 5 degrees celsius. In some examples, the device may further include at least one sensor disposed at the housing. The at least one sensor may include a temperature sensor, a proximity sensor, or a humidity sensor. In some examples, the object may be hair. In some examples, the object may be a fabric.

Still other aspects and advantages of the present disclosure will become readily apparent to those skilled in this art from the following detailed description, wherein only exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are shown and described, simply by way of illustration of the best mode contemplated for carrying out the present disclosure. As will be realized, the disclosure is capable of other and different embodiments and its several details are capable of modifications in various obvious respects, all without departing from the disclosure. Accordingly, the drawings and description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature, and not as restrictive.

All publications, patents, and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent, or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.

Drawings

The novel features of the invention are set forth with particularity in the appended claims. A better understanding of the features and advantages of the present invention will be obtained by reference to the following detailed description that sets forth illustrative embodiments, in which the principles of the invention are utilized, and the accompanying drawings of which:

fig. 1 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an exemplary hair dryer according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is an enlarged cross-sectional view illustrating an airflow-generating element and a radiant energy source in an exemplary hair dryer according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary radiant energy source according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

fig. 4 is a side view illustrating an appearance of an exemplary hair dryer according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

fig. 5 is a side view illustrating an appearance of another exemplary hair dryer according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view illustrating another exemplary hair dryer according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 7 is an enlarged cross-sectional view illustrating an airflow-generating element and a radiant energy source in another exemplary hair dryer according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram illustrating another exemplary radiant energy source in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

fig. 9 is a side view illustrating an appearance of another exemplary hair dryer according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating yet another exemplary radiant energy source in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

fig. 11 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the example radiant energy source of fig. 10, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view illustrating yet another exemplary hair dryer according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

fig. 13 shows an example of a device control system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Detailed Description

While preferred embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described herein, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that such embodiments are provided by way of example only. Numerous variations, changes, and substitutions will occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the invention herein. It should be understood that various alternatives to the embodiments of the invention described herein may be employed in practicing the invention.

Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. The terminology used in the description of the invention herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. As used in the specification of the invention and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

Unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing quantities of parts, technical effects, and so forth used in the specification and claims are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term "about" or "approximately". Accordingly, unless indicated to the contrary, the numerical parameters set forth in the following specification and attached claims are approximations that may vary depending upon the desired properties and effects sought to be obtained by the present invention. At the very least, and not as an attempt to limit the application of the doctrine of equivalents to the scope of the claims, each numerical parameter should at least be construed in light of the number of significant digits and by applying ordinary rounding techniques.

Notwithstanding that the numerical ranges and parameters setting forth the broad scope of the invention are approximations, the numerical values set forth in the specific examples are provided as precisely as possible. Any numerical value, however, inherently contains certain errors necessarily resulting from the standard deviation found in their respective testing measurements. Every numerical range given throughout this specification will include every narrower numerical range that falls within such broader numerical range, as if such narrower numerical ranges were all expressly written herein.

The present disclosure may provide an apparatus and method for drying an object. The drying apparatus of the present disclosure may remove water and moisture from an object (e.g., hair, fabric, animal hair, or human hands) by utilizing an Infrared (IR) radiation source as a thermal energy source. The infrared radiation source can emit infrared energy having a predetermined wavelength range and power density to heat the object. The heat carried by the infrared energy is transferred directly to the object in a radiative heat transfer manner such that the heat transfer efficiency is improved as compared to conventional convective heat transfer (e.g., substantially no heat is absorbed by the surrounding air in a radiative heat transfer manner, whereas a significant portion of the heat is absorbed by the surrounding air and carried away in a conventional conductive heat transfer manner). The infrared radiation source may be used in conjunction with a gas flow generating element (e.g., a motor-driven impeller) that further accelerates the evaporation of water from the object.

Another benefit of using infrared radiation as a source of thermal energy is that infrared heat can penetrate the hair shaft up to the cortex of the hair shaft, thus drying the hair faster and relaxing and softening the hair. Infrared energy is also thought to be beneficial to scalp health and to stimulate hair growth by increasing blood flow to the scalp. The use of an infrared radiation source allows the drying apparatus to be compact and lightweight, since no resistive wire grid is required to heat the gas flow. The improved heat transfer efficiency and energy efficiency of the infrared radiation source may also extend the run time of the wireless drying apparatus powered by the embedded battery.

Fig. 1 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an exemplary hair dryer according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The hair dryer may comprise a housing 101. The housing 101 may house various electrical, mechanical and electromechanical components, such as a gas flow generating element 102, a radiation source 103, control circuitry (not shown) and a power adapter (not shown). The radiation source 103 may be configured to generate radiant heat energy and direct the heat energy toward the user's hair. The airflow-generating element 102 may be configured to generate an airflow that facilitates evaporation of water from the user's hair. The hair dryer may include a power source configured to power at least the radiation source and the airflow generating element.

The hair dryer may be powered using an external power source. The power supply may include a power adapter that regulates the voltage and/or current received from an external power source. For example, the hair dryer may be powered by electrical connection to an external battery or power grid via a power cord. Additionally or alternatively, the hairdryer may be powered by an embedded power supply. The power source may include one or more batteries received within the housing. The one or more batteries may be rechargeable (e.g., secondary batteries) and/or replaceable. In one illustrative example, the one or more batteries 104 may be received in a housing (e.g., a handle of the housing) of the hair dryer. The battery status (e.g., battery charge status, remaining charge) may be provided by, for example, a screen or Light Emitting Diode (LED) indicator on the housing.

The housing may include a body and a handle, each of which may receive at least a portion of the electrical, mechanical, and electromechanical components therein. In some examples, the body and the handle may be integral. In some cases, the body and the handle may be separate components. For example, the handle may be detachable from the body. In one illustrative example, the detachable handle may house one or more batteries therein for powering the hair dryer. The housing may be made of an electrically insulating material having a high resistance to electric current. Examples of the electrical insulating material may include polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), polyester, polyolefin, polystyrene, polyurethane, thermoplastic, silicone, glass, fiberglass, resin, rubber, ceramic, nylon, and wood. The housing may also be made of a metallic material coated with an electrically insulating material, or a combination of an electrically insulating material and a metallic material with or without an electrically insulating material. For example, the electrically insulating material may constitute an inner layer of the housing, while the metallic material may constitute an outer layer of the housing.

The housing may have one or more airflow passages provided therein. The air flow generated by the air flow generating element may be directed or regulated through the air flow passage and towards the hair of the user. For example, the airflow passage may be shaped to regulate at least the velocity, throughput, divergence angle or swirl strength of the airflow exiting the hair dryer. The airflow passage may include an airflow inlet and an airflow outlet. In an illustrative example, the airflow inlet and airflow outlet may be placed at opposite ends of the hairdryer along a longitudinal direction of the hairdryer. The airflow inlet and airflow outlet may each be a vent that allows for efficient airflow throughput. Ambient air may be drawn into the airflow channel through the airflow inlet to generate an airflow, and the generated airflow may exit the airflow channel through the airflow outlet.

In some examples, one or more air filters may be provided at the airflow inlet to prevent dust or hair from entering the airflow passage. For example, the air filter may be a mesh having an appropriate mesh size. The air filter may be removable or replaceable for cleaning and maintenance. In some examples, an airflow regulator may be provided at the airflow outlet. The airflow regulator may be a removable mouthpiece, a comb or a crimper. The airflow regulator may be configured to regulate a velocity, throughput, divergence angle, or vortex intensity of the airflow blown from the airflow outlet. For example, the airflow regulator may be shaped to converge (e.g., concentrate) the airflow at a predetermined distance forward of the airflow outlet. For example, the airflow regulator may be shaped to diverge the airflow exiting the airflow outlet.

As exemplarily shown in fig. 2, which is an enlarged cross-sectional view illustrating an airflow generating element and a radiant energy source in an exemplary hair dryer according to embodiments of the present disclosure, the airflow generating element 102 may include an impeller 1021 driven by a motor 1022. The impeller may comprise a plurality of blades. When the impeller is driven by the motor, rotation of the impeller may draw ambient air into the airflow channel through the airflow inlet to generate an airflow, push the generated airflow through the airflow channel and expel the airflow from the airflow outlet. The motor may be supported by the motor bracket or housed in the motor shroud. The motor may be a brushless motor, and the rotational speed of the motor may be adjusted under the control of a controller (not shown). For example, the rotational speed of the motor may be controlled by a preset program, user input, or sensor data. The motor size measured in any direction may be in the range between 14mm (millimeters) and 21 mm. The power output of the motor may be in the range of 35 to 80 watts (W). The maximum velocity of the gas stream exiting the gas stream outlet may be at least 8 meters per second (m/s).

Although the airflow-generating element 102 is shown in fig. 1 and 2 as being received in the body of the housing, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the airflow-generating element may also be placed in the handle. For example, rotation of the impeller may draw air into a vent (e.g., an airflow inlet) provided at the handle and push the air through an airflow channel to an airflow outlet provided at one end of the body of the housing. The airflow passage may extend through the handle and body of the housing, respectively.

The radiation source 103 may be configured to generate infrared radiation and direct the infrared radiation to the exterior of the housing. The radiant energy source may be supported by the radiation source support or housed in a radiation source housing. In some embodiments, the radiant energy source may be an infrared lamp that converts electrical energy to infrared radiant energy. In one illustrative example, the infrared lamp may include a radiation emitter configured to emit radiation having a preset wavelength and a reflector configured to reflect the radiation toward the outlet of the airflow passage. In another exemplary example, the infrared lamp may also be an infrared Light Emitting Diode (LED) or a laser device such as a carbon dioxide laser. In an exemplary example where a laser device is used as the infrared lamp, a reflector may not be necessary. An optical element may be provided to diverge the radiation from the laser device to increase the area irradiated by the infrared radiation. The radiant energy may be directed toward the hair of the user. Thus, heat is transferred to the hair in a radiative heat transfer manner, which increases the heat transfer efficiency of the hair dryer. Details of the infrared lamps will be provided in the following disclosure.

In the illustrative example shown in fig. 2, an airflow passage housing 105 may be provided to define (e.g., border) an airflow passage 107. The airflow passage housing 105 may extend generally from one longitudinal end of the hair dryer to the other. The motor and impeller may be positioned adjacent the inlet end of the airflow passage housing. The characteristics of the gas flow (e.g., velocity, divergence angle, or vortex intensity) may be adjusted by the gas flow passage housing. For example, the cross-sectional shape of the airflow passage housing may vary along its longitudinal direction to produce a desired velocity profile and/or divergence angle of the airflow exiting the airflow outlet. In some examples, the infrared lamp can be housed within an infrared lamp housing 106. The infrared lamp housing can be used for protecting the infrared lamp. A degree of vacuum can be provided in the space between the outer surface of the infrared lamp and the inner surface of the infrared lamp envelope. In some embodiments, an infrared lamp housing 106 may be placed within the airflow channel housing 105. As shown in fig. 2, at least a portion of the airflow channel 107 can be defined by the airflow channel housing 105 and the infrared lamp housing 106. Fig. 4 shows a side view of a hair dryer having such a construction, in which the output of the infrared lamp 103 is surrounded by the airflow outlet of the airflow channel 107. In some embodiments, the infrared lamp envelope may be positioned outside of the airflow channel housing (e.g., the infrared lamp envelope is not surrounded by the airflow channel housing). Fig. 5 shows a side view of the hair dryer with such a configuration, in which the output of the infrared lamp 103 is separated from the airflow outlet of the airflow channel 107. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the airflow channel housing or infrared lamp housing may be optional.

Although in fig. 1 and 2 the airflow passages are shown extending from the airflow inlet at one longitudinal end of the body of the housing to the airflow outlet at the other longitudinal end of the body of the housing, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the airflow inlets and/or airflow outlets may be distributed over the housing of the hair dryer of the present invention and that more than one airflow passage and/or branch of an airflow passage may be provided within the housing of the hair dryer. In one example, at least a portion of the airflow inlet may be placed at a handle of the housing. In another example, at least a portion of the airflow outlet may be positioned at a handle of the housing such that a portion of the airflow may be directed to and flow over one or more batteries received in the handle, thereby cooling the one or more batteries.

Fig. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary radiant energy source according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the radiant energy source may be an infrared lamp. The infrared lamp 103 may include a reflector 1032 having an opening toward the gas flow outlet of the gas flow passage and a radiation emitter 1031 located inside the reflector. The radiation emitter 1031 may be configured to emit radiation within a preset wavelength range. Radiation emitted from the radiation emitter may be reflected by a reflective surface (e.g., an inner surface) of reflector 1032 toward the exterior of the hair dryer.

The radiation emitter may be an electrically conductive heater (e.g., a heater running on a metal resistor or carbon fiber) or a ceramic heater. Examples of metal resistors may include tungsten wire and chromium (e.g., an alloy of nickel and chromium, also known as nichrome) wire. Examples of the ceramic heater may include a Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) heater and a cermet heater (MCH). Ceramic heaters include a metallic heating element embedded within a ceramic, such as tungsten embedded within silicon nitride or silicon carbide. The radiation emitter may be provided in the form of a wire (e.g. a filament). The wire may be patterned (e.g., formed as a spiral filament) to increase its length and/or surface. The radiation emitter may also be provided in the form of a rod. In an exemplary example, the radiation emitter may be a silicon nitride rod, a silicon carbide rod, or a carbon fiber rod having a preset diameter and length.

In some examples, the radiation emitted by the radiation emitter may substantially cover the visible spectrum from 0.4 μm to 0.7 μm and the infrared spectrum above 0.7 μm. In some examples, the radiation emitted by the radiation emitter may substantially cover only the infrared spectrum. In one illustrative example, the radiation emitter, when functional, may emit radiation having a wavelength in the range of 0.7 μm to 20 μm. The power density of the radiation emitted by the radiation emitter may be at least 1kW/m²、2kW/m²、3kW/m²、4kW/m²、5kW/m²、6kW/m²、7kW/m²、8kW/m²、9kW/m²、10kW/m²、20kW/m²、30kW/m²、40kW/m²、50kW/m²、60kW/m²、70kW/m²、80kW/m²、90kW/m²、100kW/m²、120kW/m²、140kW/m²、160kW/m²、180kW/m²、200kW/m²、220kW/m²、240kW/m²、260kW/m²、280kW/m²、300kW/m²、350kW/m²、400kW/m²、450kW/m²、500kW/m²Or higher.

The object will radiate in the infrared to visible wavelength range in the form of heat transfer. This heat transfer is known as black body radiation. Black body radiation may be used as an infrared source. The black body radiation is broadband radiation. The center wavelength and spectral bandwidth decrease with increasing temperature. Total energy and S × T⁴In proportion, where S represents surface area and T represents temperature. In order to have a higher infrared emissivity, it is necessary to raise the temperature. The temperature of the radiation emitter 1031 may be at least 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1300, 1400, 1500, 1600, 1700, 1800, 1900, or 2000 degrees celsius (° c). In one illustrative example, the temperature of the radiation emitter may be 900 to 1500 degrees celsius. The central wavelength or wavelength range of the radiation emitted by the radiation emitter may be tunable, e.g. at least tunable 0.5, 1.0,1.5, 2.0, 2.5, 3.0, 3.5, 4.0, 4.5, 5.0, 5.5, 6.0, 6.5, 7.0, 7.5, 8.0, 8.5, 9.0, 9.5 or 10.0 μm. The power density of the radiation emitted from the radiation emitter may be adjusted in different operating modes of the hair dryer (e.g. fast drying mode, hair health mode, etc.), for example by varying the voltage and/or current supplied to the hair dryer.

Reflector 1032 may be configured to condition radiation emitted from the radiation emitter. For example, the reflector may be shaped to reduce the divergence angle of the reflected radiation beam. In one embodiment, as shown in fig. 2, reflector 1032 may have a generally conical shape. For example, the cross-section of the reflecting surface of the reflector may be parabolic. The radiation emitter 1031 may be placed at the focal point of the parabola such that the reflected radiation beam may be a substantially parallel radiation beam. The radiation emitter may also be placed off the focus of the parabola so that the reflected radiation beam may converge or diverge at a distance in front of the hair dryer. The position of the radiation emitter 1031 in the reflector 1032 is adjustable, and thus the degree of convergence and/or direction of the output radiation beam may be varied. The shape of the reflector and the shape of the radiation emitter may be optimized and varied with respect to each other to output a desired heating power at a desired location outside the hair dryer.

The reflective surface of the reflector may be coated with a coating material having a high reflectivity for the wavelength or wavelength range of the radiation emitted by the radiation emitter. For example, the coating material may have high reflectivity for wavelengths in both the visible and infrared spectrum. Materials with high reflectivity can have high efficiency in reflecting radiant energy. Examples of the coating material may include a metal material and a dielectric material. The metal material may include, for example, gold, silver, and aluminum. The dielectric coating may have alternating layers of dielectric material, such as magnesium fluoride and calcium fluoride. The coated reflective surface of the reflector can have a reflectivity of at least 90% (e.g., 90% of incident radiation is reflected by the reflective surface of the reflector), 90.5%, 91%, 91.5%, 92%, 92.5%, 93%, 93.5%, 94%, 94.5%, 95%, 95.5%, 96%, 96.5%, 97%, 97.5%, 98%, 98.5%, 99%, 99.5%, 99.6%, 99.7%, 99.8%, 99.9%, or more. In some examples, the reflectivity of the coated reflective surface of the reflector may be substantially 100%, meaning that substantially all of the radiation emitted by the radiation emitter may be reflected towards the exterior of the hair dryer. Thus, even if the temperature of the radiation emitter is high, the temperature on the reflector surface is not substantially increased by the radiation emitted from the radiation emitter.

An optical element 1033 may be provided at the opening of the reflector. The optical element may abut against the opening of the reflector in a gastight manner. The optical element may include a modified or redirected light lens, reflector, prism, grating, beam splitter, filter, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the optical element may be a lens. In some embodiments, the optical element may be a fresnel lens.

The interior of the reflector may be configured to have a degree of vacuum. The pressure within the interior of the reflector may be less than 0.9 standard atmosphere (atm), 0.8atm, 0.7atm, 0.6atm, 0.5atm, 0.4atm, 0.3atm, 0.2atm, 0.1atm, 0.05atm, 0.01atm, 0.001atm, 0.0001atm or less. In one illustrative example, the pressure within the interior of the reflector may be about 0.001atm or less. The vacuum may inhibit evaporation and/or oxidation of the radiation emitter 1031 and extend the life of the infrared lamp. The vacuum may also prevent thermal convection or conduction between the radiation emitter and the optical element and/or reflector. In some examples, the interior of the reflector can be filled with a quantity of a non-oxidizing gas while still maintaining a level of vacuum to reduce the increase in temperature of the air inside the space formed by the coated reflector and the inner surface of the optical element. This temperature rise, although small, is caused by thermal convection and conduction. Examples of the non-oxidizing gas may include nitrogen (N)₂) Helium (He), argon (Ar), neon (Ne), krypton (Kr), xenon (Xe), radon (Rn), and nitrogen (N)₂). The presence of the inert gas may further protect the material of the radiation emitter from oxidation and evaporation.

The optical element may be made of a material having a high infrared transmittance. Examples of materials for the optical element may include oxides (e.g., silicon dioxide), metal fluorides (e.g., calcium fluoride, barium fluoride), metal sulfides or metal selenides (e.g., zinc sulfide, zinc selenide), and crystals (e.g., crystalline silicon, crystalline germanium). Additionally or alternatively, either or both sides of the optical element may be coated with a material that absorbs in the visible and ultraviolet spectrum so that only wavelengths in the infrared range may pass through the optical element. The optical element may filter out (e.g., absorb) radiation that is not in the infrared spectrum. The optical element can have an infrared transmission of at least 95% (e.g., 95% of incident radiation in the infrared spectrum is transmitted through the optical element), 95.5%, 96.0%, 96.5%, 97.0%, 97.5%, 98.0%, 98.5%, 99%, 99.1%, 99.2%, 99.3%, 99.4%, 99.5%, 99.6%, 99.7%, 99.8%, 99.9%, or more. In one illustrative example, the infrared transmittance of the optical element may be 99%.

The optical element may filter out (e.g., absorb) radiation of a particular wavelength or radiation in a predetermined wavelength range from radiation reflected by the reflector. For example, the optical element may selectively remove the visible spectrum and/or the ultraviolet spectrum from the arriving radiation so that only radiation in the infrared spectrum may be directed to the user's hair. In one illustrative example, the radiation emitter may emit radiation having a wavelength of 0.4 μm to 20 μm, the reflector may reflect all radiation toward the optical element (e.g., no radiation is absorbed at the reflective surface), and the optical element may filter out any visible spectrum wavelengths between 0.4 μm to 0.7 μm from the reflected radiation, such that only radiation in the infrared spectrum exits the infrared lamp.

The optical element may be shaped to converge or diverge the arriving radiation in a predetermined direction or to reduce the divergence angle of the arriving radiation beam. The optical element may be a convex lens, a concave lens, a set of convex and/or concave lenses, or a fresnel lens. For example, if a conductive resistor, a ceramic heater or an LED is used as the radiation emitter, the optical element may be configured to converge the reflected radiation in a preset direction at a preset convergence angle to form a radiation spot having a preset shape and a preset size at a preset distance in front of the hair dryer. For example, if a laser device is used as the radiation emitter, the optical element may be configured to cause the generated radiation beam to diverge in a preset direction at a preset divergence angle to increase the area on the user's hair that is irradiated by the infrared radiation.

The temperature rise at the optical element may be small. The content of the visible spectrum and the ultraviolet spectrum in the radiation emitted by the radiation emitter 1031 may be low. Depending on the material of the radiation emitter 1031, the energy carried by the radiation in the visible and ultraviolet spectrums may comprise less than 5%, 4.5%, 4%, 3.5%, 3%, 2.5%, 2%, 1.5%, 1%, 0.5%, 0.4%, 0.3%, 0.2%, or 0.1% of the total energy in the radiation emitted by the radiation emitter. In other words, only a small portion of the radiant energy emitted by the radiation emitters 1031 (e.g., energy carried by radiation in the visible and ultraviolet spectrums) may be absorbed by the optical elements to cause an increase in temperature. The temperature rise at the optical element may be further suppressed by a vacuum inside the reflector (e.g. the space enclosed by the optical element and the reflective surface of the reflector), which prevents thermal convection or conduction between the radiation emitter and the optical element. In some examples, a portion of the gas flow can be introduced from the gas flow channel onto the outer surface of the optical element (e.g., blown over the optical element) such that the temperature of the optical element and surrounding area can remain substantially constant during operation of the infrared lamp. Therefore, even if the temperature of the radiation emitter is high, the temperature rise of the optical element may be small.

A thermal insulating material (e.g., fiberglass, mineral wool, cellulose, polyurethane foam, or polystyrene) may be interposed between the radiation emitter and the reflector such that the radiation emitter is thermally insulated from the reflector. The thermal insulation can keep the temperature of the reflector from increasing even if the temperature of the radiation emitter is high. A thermal insulating material may also be interposed between the periphery of the optical element and the reflector to thermally insulate the optical element from the reflector.

As described above, even if the radiation emitter is energized, the temperature on the outer surface of the reflector is not substantially increased by the radiation generated by the radiation emitter. Suppression of the temperature increase of the temperature on the outer surface of the reflector can be achieved by means of: high reflectivity of a coating on a reflective surface of the reflector, vacuum inside the reflector, high infrared transmittance of the optical element, thermal insulation between the radiation emitter and the reflector and between the optical element and the reflector, or combinations thereof. Thus, when the air stream passes through the air flow passage and exits the dryer, the air stream is not substantially heated by the infrared lamps. The temperature increase of the gas stream caused by the infrared lamp may be less than 5 degrees Celsius (. degree.C.), 4.5 degrees Celsius, 4.0 degrees Celsius, 3.5 degrees Celsius, 3.0 degrees Celsius, 2.5 degrees Celsius, 2.0 degrees Celsius, 1.5 degrees Celsius, 1.0 degrees Celsius, 0.5 degrees Celsius, 0.1 degrees Celsius, or less. In one exemplary example, the temperature increase of the gas stream caused by the infrared lamps may be less than 3 ℃. In other words, the radiation generated at the infrared lamp does not substantially cause the temperature of the gas stream to increase.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the temperature of the air stream is inevitably raised to some extent by electrical components in the hair dryer, such as circuits, wires, power leads, power adapters and controls. For example, the temperature rise of the gas flow passing through the entire gas flow path may be not more than 20 ℃, 19 ℃, 18 ℃, 17 ℃, 16 ℃, 15 ℃, 14.5 ℃, 14.0 ℃, 13.5 ℃, 13.0 ℃, 12.5 ℃, 12.0 ℃, 11.5 ℃, 11.0 ℃, 10.5 ℃, 10.0 ℃, 9.5 ℃, 9.0 ℃, 8.5 ℃, 8.0 ℃, 7.5 ℃, 7.0 ℃, 6.5 ℃, 6.0 ℃, 5.5 ℃, 5.0 ℃ or less. In one illustrative example, the room temperature is 25 ℃ and the temperature of the air stream passing through the entire air flow path of the hair dryer of the present disclosure increases by up to 15 ℃, resulting in an air stream temperature at the air stream outlet of up to 40 ℃, which is much lower than the air stream temperature blown by a conventional hot air-based hair dryer. In a comparative example, a conventional number 1 hair dryer (Dyson)^@HD01) has a temperature of about 140 c. In another comparative example, a conventional number 2 hair dryer (Panasonic) was used^@EH-JNA9C) was approximately 105 ℃. In the comparative example, if the power supply of the nichrome wire heater is cut off, the temperature of the air flow blown out from the conventional No. 1 hair dryer is about 36 deg.c under the condition that the room temperature is 27 deg.c (for example, other electronic parts heat the air flow except the nichrome wire heater)About 9 deg.c).

As heat is dissipated into the air, the temperature of the air stream reaching the user's hair may be lower than the temperature measured at the air stream outlet of the hair dryer. In one illustrative example, the air flow temperature at 10cm in front of the air flow outlet of the hair dryer of the present disclosure is about 28 ℃ with a room temperature of 25 ℃ and an air flow temperature at the air flow outlet of about 40 ℃. In the comparative example, the temperature of the air flow at 10cm in front of the air outlet of the conventional No. 1 hair dryer was about 74.4 ℃ under the condition that the room temperature was 25 ℃ and the temperature of the air flow at the air outlet was about 140 ℃.

A relatively cool airflow (e.g., an airflow at room temperature) may be advantageous for drying and styling the user's hair. For example, curling, drying and damage to the hair that can occur when a conventional hair dryer blows hot air can be avoided. Another benefit of the cool airflow is that the hair dryer can be equipped with sensors that cannot operate at high temperatures. The sensors may include temperature sensors, proximity/ranging sensors, and/or humidity sensors. A sensor may be placed, for example, on the airflow outlet side of the housing to monitor the user's hair condition (e.g., humidity). The area of the airflow applied to the hair may generally comprise an area of infrared radiation (e.g., a spot of radiation) on the hair. The air flow may accelerate the evaporation of hot water from the hair by blowing away the moist air surrounding the hair. The air flow also reduces the temperature of the hair irradiated by the infrared radiation to avoid damage to the hair. The temperature of the hair and the water on the hair must be maintained within a suitable range to accelerate the evaporation of water from the hair while keeping the hair from overheating. A suitable temperature range may be 50 to 60 degrees celsius. The speed of the air stream blown onto the hair can be adjusted to maintain the temperature of the hair within a suitable temperature range, for example by blowing away hot water and excess heat. The proximity/ranging sensor and the temperature sensor may operate together to determine the temperature of the hair and regulate the speed of the air flow through a feedback loop control to maintain a constant or programmed temperature of the hair.

Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view illustrating another exemplary hair dryer according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Fig. 7 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing the body of the hair dryer of fig. 6. The hair dryer may be powered by an external power source and/or an embedded battery. The hair dryer may include a housing 601. The housing may include a body and a handle. The gas flow generating element 602, the radiation source 603 and various other electrical and mechanical components may be received in a housing. The radiation source 603 may be configured to generate and direct thermal energy towards the hair of the user. The airflow-generating element 602 may be configured to generate an airflow through an airflow channel disposed in the housing.

The gas flow generating element 602 may include an impeller 6021 driven by a motor 6022. The resulting airflow may be forced through the airflow channel 607 to the exterior of the dryer. The radiation source 603 may be an infrared lamp having a generally annular shape. As schematically shown in fig. 8, the annular radiation source 603 may include a generally annular reflector 6032 and a generally annular radiation emitter 6031 located inside the reflector. The radiation emitter may be a wire having a substantially annular shape. The radiation emitter 6031 may also include a plurality of sections that collectively form a generally annular shape. The radiation emitter may be configured to emit radiation within a preset wavelength range. In some examples, the radiation emitted by the radiation emitter may substantially cover the visible spectrum and the infrared spectrum. The reflector 6032 may have an opening towards the outside of the hairdryer.

A reflective surface (e.g., an inner surface) of the reflector 6032 may reflect radiation emitted from the radiation emitter toward the user's hair. The divergence angle of the reflected radiation beam may be reduced by the reflective surface to concentrate the reflected radiant energy within a radiation spot of a preset shape and a preset size at a preset distance in front of the hair dryer. The cross-section of the reflecting surface of the reflector may be parabolic. The radiation emitter 6031 may be placed at or offset from the focus of a parabolic shaped reflective surface (e.g., a parabola) of the reflector. The position of the radiation emitter in the reflector may be adjusted by moving the radiation emitter relative to the reflector. The reflective surface of the reflector may be coated with a coating material having a high reflectivity for the wavelength range of the radiation generated by the radiation emitter, such that substantially all of the radiation emitted by the radiation emitter is reflected towards the hair of the user. Thus, the temperature on the outer surface of the reflector is not substantially increased by radiation from the radiation emitter, since substantially no energy is absorbed by the reflective surface of the reflector.

A generally annular optical element 6033 may be provided at the opening of the reflector. The optical element may remove (e.g., absorb) radiation of a predetermined wavelength range from the radiation reflected by the reflector. For example, the optical element may selectively remove the visible spectrum and/or the ultraviolet spectrum from the reflected radiation so as to direct only radiation in the infrared spectrum toward the user's hair. The interior of the reflector may be configured with a degree of vacuum to prevent thermal convection or conduction between the radiation emitter and the optical element and/or reflector. In some examples, the interior of the reflector may be filled with an amount of inert gas to prevent oxidation and/or evaporation of the radiation emitter. As discussed above, the infrared lamps do not substantially increase the temperature of the air flow as it passes through the air flow passage, and a relatively cool air flow may be beneficial in drying and styling the hair of a user.

As shown in fig. 6 and 7, due to the annular infrared lamp configuration, the size of the housing in the axial direction (e.g., the direction from the gas flow generating element to the opening of the infrared lamp, which is shown as the horizontal direction in fig. 6 and 7) can be further reduced. For example, at least a portion of the gas flow generating element may be received in a space surrounded by an annular infrared lamp, resulting in a gas flow channel that is shortened in the axial direction. The chamber 611 may be located in a space surrounded by the infrared lamps. The opening of the chamber may be towards the hair of the user. The opening may be sealed by a transparent sealing member (e.g., SiO)₂Glass) is coated. For aesthetic reasons, the opening may be colored sealing member (e.g., coated SiO)₂Glass) is coated. The chamber may be configured to house various components (e.g., sensors). Examples of sensors may include temperature sensors, proximity/ranging sensors, and humidity sensors. The walls of the chamber may be made of an electrically and/or thermally insulating material. As described above, since the air flow passing through the air flow passage is not substantially heated by the infrared lamp, the temperature of the room can be maintainedThe temperature is maintained at room temperature to improve the measurement accuracy of the sensor.

In the illustrative example shown in fig. 6 and 7, the gas flow outlet of the gas flow channel 607 may be placed between the infrared lamp 603 and the chamber 611. Fig. 9 shows a side view of the hair dryer of fig. 6 and 7, wherein the chamber is centrally located, while the air flow out of the air flow channel 607 is surrounded by infrared lamps 603. Although not shown, in an alternative embodiment, the airflow outlet of the airflow channel 607 may be located between the housing 601 and the infrared lamps 603 to form a configuration in which the infrared lamps are surrounded by the airflow flowing out of the airflow channel.

The radiant energy source 603 of fig. 6 and 7 may alternatively or additionally comprise a plurality of infrared lamps. The plurality of infrared lamps may be arranged along the contour of any geometric shape, such as a ring, triangle, square, or sector. Fig. 10 and 11 schematically illustrate a radiant energy source 603 having a plurality of infrared lamps arranged along a ring. Each of the plurality of infrared lamps may have substantially the same configuration as described above with reference to fig. 3. For example, each of the plurality of infrared lamps may include a reflector 6032 having an opening facing the exterior of the dryer, an optical element abutting the opening of the reflector, and a radiation emitter 6031 located on the interior of the reflector. The reflective surface of the reflector may be coated with a coating material having a high reflectivity for the wavelength range of the radiation generated by the radiation emitter. The optical element may remove radiation of a predetermined wavelength or wavelength range, for example radiation in the visible spectrum and/or ultraviolet spectrum.

The cross-section of the reflective surface of each reflector may be parabolic. The parabolic reflector of each infrared lamp may reduce the divergence angle of the reflected radiation beam. Optical simulation software can be used to optimize the shape of the radiation emitter and the shape of the reflector to maximize the radiation output at a desired distance outside the hair dryer. The axes of the respective parabolic reflecting surfaces in the plurality of reflectors may be substantially parallel to each other. The axis of the parabola may refer to the axis of symmetry of the parabola, which is a vertical line passing through the vertex of the parabola and dividing the parabola into two equal halves. As shown in fig. 11 in conjunction with fig. 12, the axes of the respective parabolic reflecting surfaces of the reflectors in the plurality of infrared lamps may also intersect with each other. The angle of intersection between the axes of the respective parabolic reflecting surfaces of the reflectors of the plurality of infrared lamps may be adjusted, for example, by changing the angle of inclination of one or more infrared lamps with respect to the axial direction of the housing of the hair dryer. In the exemplary example shown, the gas flow may be thermally insulated from the plurality of infrared lamps. The radiation generated by the infrared lamps does not heat the gas stream.

The infrared radiation leaving the plurality of infrared lamps may at least partially overlap at a preset distance in front of the hair dryer, so that a radiation spot having a preset shape and size may be formed. The radiation spot may have, for example, a circular shape. In one illustrative example, a circular spot of about 10 centimeters in diameter may be formed at a distance of about 10 centimeters in front of the dryer. The shape and/or size of the radiation spot located at a distance in front of the hair dryer can be adjusted by adjusting at least one of: the size (e.g., diameter) of the respective infrared lamp, the offset of the radiation emitter from the focal point of the respective reflector, the angle of intersection between the axes of the respective reflectors, and the optical characteristics of the optical elements of the respective infrared lamp. The spot of radiation may receive at least 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95% or more of the total energy carried by the infrared radiation emitted from each of the plurality of infrared lamps. The average power density of the radiation spot may be at least 1x10³、2x10³、3x10³、4x10³、5x10³、6x10³、7x10³、8x10³、9x10³、1x10⁴、2x10⁴、3x10⁴、4x10⁴、5x10⁴、6x10⁴、7x10⁴、8x10⁴、9x10⁴、1x10⁵Watt per square meter (W/m)²) Or higher.

Although not shown, the plurality of infrared lamps may be arranged in any shape array. The plurality of infrared lamps arranged in an array may or may not be coplanar. For example, a plurality of infrared lamps may also be arranged to cover an area having any geometric shape (e.g., circular, triangular, square, or fan-shaped). The offset of the radiation emitter from the focal point of the respective reflector and the angle of intersection between the axes of the respective reflectors in the array of the plurality of infrared lamps may have substantially the same configuration as described above with reference to fig. 10 and 11. For example, the infrared radiation emitted from each of the infrared lamps in the array may overlap at a preset distance in front of the hair dryer to form a radiation spot of a desired size and power density. The plurality of infrared lamps arranged in a ring or array are not necessarily placed in series. For example, it is also possible to replace any of the plurality of infrared lamps shown with sensors or other components, or to leave empty some locations along the loop or array, as long as a spot of radiation having the desired average energy density is produced at the hair.

The plurality of infrared lamps may be located inside or outside the annular gas flow outlet of the gas flow channel. For example, a plurality of infrared lamps may be positioned around or surrounded by the airflow outlet when viewed from the side of the hair dryer. A plurality of infrared lamps may also be positioned apart from the airflow outlet of the airflow passageway. For example, the area covered by the plurality of infrared lamps may not overlap with the area covered by the airflow outlet when viewed from the side of the hair dryer. The chamber may be provided in a space surrounded by, for example, infrared lamps. The transparent sealing member may cover an opening of the chamber, which opening is directed towards the outside of the hairdryer. The chamber may be configured to receive various components, such as sensors, therein. Since the air flow flowing through the air flow passage is not substantially heated by the infrared lamp, the temperature of the chamber can be maintained at room temperature to improve the measurement accuracy of the sensor.

The hair dryer of the present disclosure may have a reduced size compared to conventional designs, at least in the axial direction (e.g., the horizontal direction shown in fig. 1 and 6). In one example, an infrared lamp having a compact size may be used as the radiation source. Thus, there is no conventional heater chamber provided in the hair dryer of the present disclosure that receives the nichrome wire grid. As described above, by using the infrared lamp in a ring shape or a plurality of infrared lamps arranged along a ring shape, the size of the hair dryer in the axial direction can be further reduced. The hair dryer may include a housing having a body and a handle. The body may have a dimension in at least one direction thereof (e.g., an axial direction and a radial direction (e.g., a direction perpendicular to the plane of fig. 1 and 6)) of no more than 25, 24, 23, 22, 21, 20, 19, 18, 17, 16, 15, 14, 13, 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, or 4 centimeters. In one illustrative example, the body may have a dimension in at least one direction of no more than 10 centimeters. In another exemplary embodiment, the body may have a dimension in at least one direction of no more than 8 centimeters. In another exemplary embodiment, the body may have a dimension in at least one direction of no more than 6.5 centimeters. The body may have a dimension in any direction of no more than 25, 24, 23, 22, 21, 20, 19, 18, 17, 16, 15, 14, 13, 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, or 5 centimeters. In an exemplary example, the body may have a dimension in any direction thereof of no more than 8 centimeters. In another illustrative example, the body may have a dimension in any direction thereof of no more than 6.5 centimeters.

The hair dryer of the present disclosure may have a reduced weight. A lightweight radiant energy source may be used as a thermal energy source in place of the conventional heavy duty nichrome wire or rod. The hair dryer may include a housing having a body and a handle. The hair dryer may be operated by one or more batteries or an external power source received in the handle. The handle is detachable from the body of the housing. The hair dryer including one or more batteries weighs no more than 1500, 1450, 1400, 1350, 1300, 1250, 1200, 1150, 1100, 1050, 1000, 950, 900, 850, 800, 750, 700, 650, 600, 550, 500, 450, 400, 350, or 300 grams. In one illustrative example, a hair dryer including one or more batteries may weigh no more than 800 grams. In one illustrative example, a hair dryer including one or more batteries may weigh no more than 600 grams. In another illustrative example, the body of the hair dryer (excluding the handle) may weigh no more than 300 grams. In yet another illustrative example, the body of the hair dryer (excluding the handle) may weigh no more than 250 grams. Therefore, the user can easily hold and operate the hair dryer during the process of drying hair.

The hair dryer of the present disclosure may have reduced power consumption. In the hair dryer of the present disclosure, a radiant energy source such as an infrared lamp may be used as the thermal energy source. As previously mentioned, since most of the radiation generated by the infrared lamp is in the infrared spectrum, the proportion of the total radiant energy generated by the infrared lamp that is available to be transferred to the user's hair and water thereon may be at least 80%. In addition, heat carried by the infrared energy can be transferred directly to and applied to the hair and water on the hair in a radiative heat transfer manner, thereby improving heat transfer efficiency. In one illustrative example, about 90% of the radiation produced by the infrared lamps is in the infrared spectrum. A small portion of the infrared energy may be lost at the reflector and the optical elements, while a large portion of the infrared energy reaches the user's hair in the form of thermal radiation, so that the proportion of the available energy exceeds 80%. However, in conventional nichrome-based hair dryers that use convective heat transfer, the ratio of available energy and the efficiency of the heat transfer are much lower, since most of the heat is absorbed by the surrounding air before it reaches the user's hair. In the use of a conventional number 1 hair dryer (Dyson)^@HD01) the air temperature at the air outlet was about 140 c, but at a distance of 10cm from the hair dryer the air temperature dropped to 74 c, whereas at a distance of 20 cm from the hair dryer the air temperature dropped to 60 c. The rapid drop in temperature of the air stream in the convective heat transfer mode is due to the fact that some of the heat is absorbed by the surrounding air before it reaches the hair. If the room temperature is 25 c, at least 50% of the energy carried by the hot air stream is lost before it reaches the hair. Upon reaching the hair, a portion of the hot air is reflected in all directions without contributing to the heating of the hair or water on the hair, resulting in a low rate of effective energy and low heat transfer efficiency.

In one illustrative example, the hair dryer of the present disclosure may be run by one or more embedded batteries. The total capacity of the battery is at least 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90 watt-hours (Wh, e.g., a 100 watt-hour battery can deliver 100 watts of power for 1 hour or 20 watts of power for 5 hours). In the test experiments, a battery with a total capacity of 66.6Wh could maintain continuous operation of the hair dryer for about 20 minutes at a total power output (e.g., of all power consuming components, including the motor, infrared lamp and any circuitry) of 200 watts, or for about 13 minutes at a total power output of 350 watts, which was sufficient to completely dry the user's hair.

The hair dryer of the present disclosure can provide a strong airflow that accelerates the evaporation of water from the hair. The air flow generated by the air flow generating element can travel along the air flow path without passing through a grid of nichrome wires and therefore without slowing down, as compared to conventional nichrome wire-based hair dryers, so that the blowing speed of the air flow out of the hair dryer is increased. The velocity of the output gas stream may be at least 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24 or 25 m/s. In one illustrative example, the velocity of the output airflow may be at least 18 m/s. The air flow over the hair can reduce the temperature of the hair and moisture on the hair by removing excess heat; otherwise, the hair may be damaged at high temperatures caused by infrared radiation. As mentioned above, the evaporation of water from the hair may depend on the temperature of the hair and the water on the hair and the relative humidity of the air surrounding the hair. A suitable temperature range for drying hair is 50 to 60 degrees celsius, where water evaporation and hair health can be balanced. The speed of the output air stream blown onto the hair can be adjusted to maintain the temperature of the hair and the water on the hair within a suitable temperature range to cause evaporation of the water, while the air stream carries away excess heat from the hair to create a local environment with a lower relative humidity around the hair, thereby accelerating evaporation.

As described above, the temperature of the gas stream is not substantially increased by the radiation generated at the infrared lamps while passing through the gas stream channel. The relatively cool air flow may be beneficial to the health of the hair of the user when drying and styling the hair. In addition, hair dryers may be equipped with various sensors that otherwise would not be capable of operating at high temperatures.

Although the apparatus for drying objects of the present disclosure is described with reference to the drawings showing a hair dryer, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the apparatus for drying objects is not limited to a hair dryer, as long as a radiant energy source (e.g., one or more infrared lamps) is used as a thermal energy source. In some embodiments, the apparatus for drying objects of the present disclosure may be implemented as a dryer or a hand dryer. The dryer may utilize one or more infrared lamps as a heat source associated with the airflow-generating element to promote evaporation of water from various fabrics, such as clothing, sheets, curtains, and plush toys. The housing of the dryer may include a support or stand. The height of the support or stand can be adjusted.

Examples of the invention

Example 1

In this illustrative example, the housing of the hair dryer includes a body and a handle. One or more secondary batteries are received in the handle to power the hair dryer. A gas flow generating element (e.g., a motor-driven impeller) and a single annular infrared lamp are received within the body. The infrared lamp has an annular parabolic reflective surface. An annular radiation emitter is arranged in the infrared lamp as a source of infrared radiation. An infrared lamp surrounds the airflow passage. The velocity of the air stream blown out of the air stream channel is about 12 m/s. A circular radiation spot of 10cm diameter was formed at a distance of 10cm in front of the hair dryer. The power consumption of the motor is 50W.

The hair dryer of this example was tested with a hairpiece made of human hair. A wig weighing 135 grams (e.g., the hair is completely dry) is placed on the model head of 1012 grams. The total weight of the model head and dry hairpiece was 1147 grams. The hairpiece was then uniformly wetted with water, and the total weight of the model head and dry hairpiece was 1233 grams (e.g., 86 grams of water added).

The wetted hairpiece is then dried with the hair dryer of this example. The test shows that the radiation energy density in a circular radiation spot with the diameter of 10cm on the wig is 17000W/m². In this test, radiant energy density is measured by an apparatus comprising a radiation absorbing material having a known specific heat capacityThe amount of the compound is as follows. The device can measure an increase in temperature in the area. Assuming that the area of the radiation spot is a, the mass of the radiation absorbing material is M, the specific heat capacity of the radiation absorbing material is C, and the temperature of the radiation absorbing material is increased by Δ T in the period S, the radiation energy density of the radiation spot is (M × C × Δ T)/(S × a). Thus, the total power within the circular radiation spot is 160 watts (W). The output power of the motor driving the impeller was 50W, so that the airflow reached the wig at a speed of 9 meters per second (m/s). It takes 11 minutes and 51 seconds to remove all water from the hairpiece (e.g., the total weight of the model head and dry hairpiece is restored to 1147 grams). Thus, the total power consumed to dry the hair is about 210W.

Example 2

In this illustrative example, the housing of the hair dryer includes a body and a handle. The body of the housing is provided with a cylindrical shape having a diameter of 8cm and a length of 7 cm. The body is provided therein with an air flow generating element (e.g., an impeller driven by a motor) and seven infrared lamps arranged along a ring shape. Each infrared lamp includes a reflector configured to direct a beam of radiation toward its opening, a ceramic heater configured to emit radiation and may reach 1200 degrees celsius, and a lens configured to absorb radiation in the visible spectrum. The power of each infrared lamp was 40W, so the total radiant power of seven infrared lamps was 280W. The power consumption of the motor is 50W. The air flow velocity at the outlet was about 12 m/s. A circular radiation spot of 10cm diameter was formed at a distance of 10cm in front of the hair dryer.

The radiation energy density in a circular radiation spot with a diameter of 10cm was tested to be 25324W/m²The radiant energy density was increased by more than about 49% compared to example 1. Of the total radiant energy emitted from the infrared lamp, about 71% of the radiant energy is within the circular spot of radiation. The increase in radiation energy density is due to the fact that: more of the radiant energy emitted by the seven infrared lamps overlaps at the circular spot of radiation. The time taken to dry the hair and the total work consumed are reduced due to the increase in radiant energy density compared to example 1.

Example 3

In this illustrative example, the housing of the hair dryer includes a body and a handle. A gas flow generating element (e.g., a motor-driven impeller) and a single infrared lamp are received within the body. The infrared lamp is disposed downstream of the airflow generating member along an airflow path, a portion of which is formed between an outer surface of the infrared lamp and an inner surface of the body. An annular air flow outlet is formed at the infrared radiation end of the hair dryer. The infrared lamp includes a reflector configured to direct a beam of radiation toward its opening, a ceramic heater configured to emit radiation and may reach 1200 degrees celsius, and a lens configured to absorb radiation in the visible spectrum. The lens is a convex lens with a curvature of 0.0165. The opening diameter of the infrared lamp was 5.7 cm. The power of the infrared lamp was 200W. The power consumption of the motor is 50W. The gas flow velocity at the outlet may be at least 12 m/s. A circular radiation spot of 10cm diameter was formed at a distance of 10cm in front of the hair dryer.

The radiation energy density in a circular radiation spot with a diameter of 10cm was tested to be 23184W/m²The radiant energy density was increased by about 36% compared to example 1. Of the total radiant energy emitted by the infrared lamp, about 91% of the radiant energy is within the circular spot of radiation. The increase in radiant energy density is caused by the fact that: more of the radiant energy emitted by the infrared lamp is located within the circular spot of radiation. The time taken to dry the hair and the total work consumed are reduced due to the increase in radiant energy density compared to example 1.

Comparative example 1

Using the same hairpiece as used in example 1, a conventional No. 1 hair dryer (Dyson)^@HD01) to test the hair dryer of the comparative example. The conventional No. 1 hair dryer has a total power of 1600 watts, with the motor power being about 120W and the resistance heater power being about 1480W. It took 9 minutes to remove all water from the hairpiece (e.g., the total weight of the model head and dry hairpiece was restored to 1147 grams). Thus, the total power consumed is about 1600W.

Fig. 13 shows an example of a device control system according to an embodiment of the present invention. The device control system may be programmed to implement the methods and devices of the present disclosure.

The device control system 1301 includes a central processing unit (CPU, also referred to herein as a "processor" and a "computer processor") 1305, which may be a single-core or multi-core processor; or include multiple processors for parallel processing. The device control system 1301 also includes memory or storage locations 1310 (e.g., random access memory, read only memory, flash memory), an electronic storage unit 1315 (e.g., hard disk), a communication interface 1320 (e.g., a network adapter) for communicating with one or more other systems, and peripheral devices 1325 (e.g., cache, other memory, data storage, and/or an electronic display adapter). The memory 1310, storage unit 1315, interface 1320, and peripheral devices 1325 communicate with the CPU 1305 through a communication bus (solid line) such as a motherboard. The storage unit 1315 may be a data storage unit (or data repository) for storing data. Device control system 1301 may be operatively coupled to a computer network ("network") 1330 by way of a communication interface 1320. Network 1330 may be the internet, an intranet and/or an extranet, or an intranet and/or an extranet in communication with the internet.

In some cases, network 1330 is a telecommunications and/or data network. Network 1330 may include one or more computer servers that may enable distributed computing, such as cloud computing. For example, one or more computer servers may enable cloud computing ("the cloud") on network 1330 to perform various aspects of the analysis, computation, and generation of the present disclosure, such as capturing the configuration of one or more experimental environments; performing usage analysis of a product (e.g., an application); and providing a project statistics output. Such cloud computing may be provided by cloud computing platforms such as Amazon Web Services (AWS), microsoft Azure, google cloud platform, and IBM cloud. In some cases, network 1330 may implement a peer-to-peer network with device control system 1301 that may enable devices coupled to device control system 1301 to act as clients or servers.

CPU 1305 may execute a series of machine-readable instructions, which may be implemented in a program or software. The instructions may be stored in a memory location such as memory 1310. Instructions may be directed to the CPU 1305, which may then program or otherwise configure the CPU 1305 to implement the methods of the present disclosure. Examples of operations performed by the CPU 1305 may include fetch, decode, execute, and write back.

The CPU 1305 may be part of a circuit (e.g., an integrated circuit). One or more other components of system 1301 may be included in a circuit. In some cases, the circuit is an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC).

The storage unit 1315 may store files (e.g., drives, libraries, and saved programs). The storage unit 1315 may store user preference data such as user preferences and user programs. In some cases, device control system 1301 may include one or more additional data storage units located external to device control system 1301, such as on a remote server in communication with device control system 1301 over an intranet or the internet.

The device control system 1301 may communicate with one or more remote device control systems over a network 1330. For example, device control system 1301 may communicate with a user's remote device control system (e.g., a user of an experimental environment). Examples of remote device control systems include personal computers (such as laptop PCs), tablet computers (e.g., tablet PCs)iPad、Galaxy Tab), telephone, smartphone (e.g., for exampleiPhone, Android enabled device,) Or a personal digital assistant. A user may access device control system 1301 through network 1330.

The methods described in this disclosure may be implemented by machine (e.g., computer processor) executable code stored in an electronic storage location on the device control system 1301 (e.g., in the memory 1310 or the electronic storage unit 1315). The machine executable code or machine readable code may be provided in the form of software. In use, code may be executed by the processor 1305. In some cases, the code may be retrieved from the storage unit 1315 and stored on the memory 1310 for ready access by the processor 1305. In some cases, electronic storage 1315 may be eliminated, and machine-executable instructions stored on memory 1310.

The code may be pre-compiled and configured for use with a machine having a processor adapted to execute the code, or the code may be compiled at runtime. The code may be provided in a programming language, which may be selected to enable the code to be executed in a pre-compiled or run-time compiled manner.

Various aspects of the systems and methods provided herein (e.g., device control system 1301) may be implemented in programming. Various aspects of the technology may be considered an "article of manufacture" or an "article of manufacture" typically in the form of machine (or processor) executable code and/or associated data that is implemented or executed in the form of a machine-readable medium. The machine executable code may be stored on an electronic storage unit, such as a memory (e.g., read only memory, random access memory, flash memory) or a hard disk. A "storage" type medium may include any or all of a tangible memory or modules associated with a computer, processor, etc., such as various semiconductor memories, tape drives, disk drives, etc., that may provide non-transitory storage for software programming at any time. All or a portion of the software may sometimes communicate over the internet or other various telecommunications networks. For example, such communications may allow software to be loaded from one computer or processor to another, such as from a management server or host computer to the computer platform of an application server. Thus, another type of medium that may carry software elements includes optical, electrical, and electromagnetic waves, for example, through physical interfaces between local devices, through wired and fiber-optic land-line networks, and through the use of various air links. The physical element carrying such waves (e.g., wired or wireless links, optical links, etc.) can also be considered to be the medium carrying the software. As described herein, unless limited to a non-transitory, tangible "storage" medium, terms such as a computer or machine "readable medium" refer to any medium that participates in providing instructions to a processor for execution.

Thus, a machine-readable medium (e.g., computer executable code) may take many forms, including but not limited to, a tangible storage medium, a carrier wave medium, or a physical transmission medium. Non-volatile storage media include, for example, optical or magnetic disks, any storage device in, for example, any computer, etc., such as may be used to implement the databases shown in the figures, etc. Volatile storage media includes dynamic memory, such as the main memory of a computer platform. Tangible transmission media include coaxial cables, copper wire and fiber optics, including the wires that comprise a bus within a control system of a device. Carrier-wave transmission media can take the form of electrical or electromagnetic signals, or acoustic or light waves, such as those generated during Radio Frequency (RF) and Infrared (IR) data communications. Thus, common forms of computer-readable media include, for example: a floppy disk, a flexible disk, hard disk, magnetic tape, any other magnetic medium, a CD-ROM, DVD or DVD-ROM, any other optical medium, punch cards paper tape, any other physical storage medium with patterns of holes, a RAM, a ROM, a PROM, and EPROM, a FLASH-EPROM, any other memory chip or cartridge, a carrier wave transporting data or instructions, cables or links transporting such a carrier wave, or any other medium from which a computer can read programming code and/or data. Many of these forms of computer readable media may be involved in carrying one or more sequences of one or more instructions to a processor for execution.

The device control system 1301 may include or be in communication with an electronic display 1335 that includes a User Interface (UI)1340 for providing, for example, various components of the model management system (e.g., a laboratory, launch pad, control center, knowledge center, etc.). Examples of UIs include, but are not limited to, Graphical User Interfaces (GUIs) and Web-based user interfaces. The electronic display may be a display of a user device such as a smartphone.

The methods and apparatus of the present disclosure may be implemented by one or more algorithms. The algorithms may be implemented in software when executed by the central processing unit 1305. The algorithm may, for example, generate instructions to operate one or more components of the sample transfer system.

It should be understood from the foregoing that, while particular embodiments have been shown and described, various modifications may be made and are contemplated herein. Nor is it intended that the invention be limited to the specific examples provided within the specification. While the present invention has been described with reference to the disclosure, it is not intended that the descriptions and illustrations of the preferred embodiments herein be construed in a limiting sense. Further, it is to be understood that all aspects of the present invention are not limited to the specific depictions, configurations or relative proportions set forth herein which depend upon a variety of conditions and variables. Various modifications in form and detail of the embodiments of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art. It is therefore contemplated that the present invention will also cover any such modifications, variations, and equivalents.

Some exemplary aspects of the disclosure will be described below.

Aspect 1, a method for drying an object, the method comprising:

generating and directing infrared radiation onto the object by a radiant energy source; and is

Generating a gas flow with a gas flow generating element and directing the gas flow towards the object, wherein the gas flow is substantially unheated by the radiant energy source.

Aspect 2 the method of aspect 1, wherein the radiant energy source comprises an infrared lamp.

Aspect 3 the method of aspect 2 wherein the infrared lamp comprises a reflector having an opening to the exterior of the housing, an optical element abutting the opening of the reflector, and a radiation emitter located inside the reflector.

Aspect 4 the method of aspect 3 wherein the infrared lamp has a generally annular shape.

Aspect 5 the method of aspect 3, wherein the infrared lamp has a generally conical shape.

Aspect 6 the method of aspect 3, wherein the interior of the reflector has a degree of vacuum.

Aspect 7 the method of aspect 3, wherein the reflector directs the infrared radiation toward the opening.

Aspect 8 the method of aspect 7, wherein the reflector reduces a divergence angle of the reflected infrared radiation.

Aspect 9 the method of aspect 3, wherein the reflective surface of the reflector is coated with a coating material having a high reflectivity to the wavelength generated by the radiation emitter.

Aspect 10 the method of aspect 3, wherein the optical element filters out wavelengths in the visible spectrum and/or ultraviolet spectrum from radiation emitted by the radiation emitter.

Aspect 11 is the method of aspect 3, wherein the optical element converges or reduces the infrared radiation in a predetermined direction by an angle of divergence of the infrared radiation.

Aspect 12 the method of aspect 1, wherein the radiant energy source comprises a plurality of infrared lamps.

Aspect 13, the method of aspect 12, wherein each of the plurality of infrared lamps comprises a reflector having an opening toward an exterior of the housing, an optical element abutting the opening of the reflector, and a radiation emitter located at an interior of the reflector.

Aspect 14, the method of aspect 12, wherein the plurality of infrared lamps are arranged along a ring.

Aspect 15 the method of aspect 14, wherein the infrared radiation emitted from each of the plurality of infrared lamps overlaps at a preset distance in front of the airflow outlet.

Aspect 16, the method of aspect 1, wherein the gas stream is not heated by the infrared radiation generated by the radiant energy source.

Aspect 17, the method of aspect 1, further comprising sensing at least one parameter of the object with at least one sensor disposed at the housing.

Aspect 18, the method of aspect 17, wherein the at least one sensor comprises a temperature sensor, a proximity sensor, or a humidity sensor.

Aspect 19, an apparatus for drying an object, the apparatus comprising:

a housing having a body and a handle, the body having a dimension in at least one direction of no more than 7 centimeters;

a radiant energy source housed in the housing and generating and directing infrared radiation outside the housing; and

a power source providing power to at least the radiant energy source and the airflow generating element.

Aspect 20, the apparatus of aspect 19, wherein the radiant energy source comprises an infrared lamp.

Aspect 21 the apparatus of aspect 20 wherein the infrared lamp comprises a reflector having an opening to an exterior of the housing, an optical element abutting the opening of the reflector, and a radiation emitter located at an interior of the reflector.

Aspect 22 the apparatus of aspect 21 wherein the infrared lamp has a generally annular shape.

Aspect 23 the apparatus of aspect 21 wherein the infrared lamp has a generally conical shape.

Aspect 24 the apparatus of aspect 21, wherein the interior of the reflector has a degree of vacuum.

Aspect 25 the apparatus of aspect 21, wherein the reflector directs the infrared radiation toward the opening.

Aspect 26 the apparatus of aspect 25, wherein the reflector reduces a divergence angle of the reflected infrared radiation.

Aspect 27 the apparatus of aspect 21, wherein the reflective surface of the reflector is coated with a coating material having a high reflectivity to the wavelength generated by the radiation emitter.

Aspect 28 the apparatus of aspect 21, wherein the optical element filters out wavelengths in the visible spectrum and/or ultraviolet spectrum from radiation emitted by the radiation emitter.

Aspect 29 the device of aspect 21, wherein the optical element converges or reduces the infrared radiation in a predetermined direction by an angle of divergence of the infrared radiation.

Aspect 30 the apparatus of aspect 19, wherein the radiant energy source comprises a plurality of infrared lamps.

Aspect 31 the apparatus of aspect 30, wherein each of the plurality of infrared lamps comprises a reflector having an opening toward an exterior of the housing, an optical element abutting the opening of the reflector, and a radiation emitter located at an interior of the reflector.

Aspect 32 the apparatus of aspect 30, wherein the plurality of infrared lamps are arranged along a ring.

Aspect 33 the apparatus of aspect 30, wherein the infrared radiation emitted from each of the plurality of infrared lamps overlaps at a preset distance in front of the airflow outlet.

Aspect 34 the apparatus of aspect 19, wherein the gas stream is not heated by the infrared radiation generated by the radiant energy source.

Aspect 35 the apparatus of aspect 19, wherein the power source comprises one or more batteries received within the housing.

Aspect 36, the apparatus of aspect 35, wherein the one or more batteries are rechargeable and/or replaceable.

Aspect 37, the apparatus of aspect 35, wherein the one or more batteries are at least partially received within the handle.

Aspect 38, the apparatus of aspect 19, wherein the handle is detachable from the body.

Aspect 39, the device of aspect 37, wherein the total capacity of the one or more batteries is 66.6 watt-hour Wh.

Aspect 40 the apparatus of aspect 19, wherein the power source comprises a power adapter connected to the power source by a cord.

Aspect 41 the apparatus of aspect 19, wherein the radiant energy source causes a temperature increase of the gas flow through the gas flow passage of no more than 5 degrees celsius.

Aspect 42, the apparatus of aspect 19, wherein the apparatus weighs no more than 800 grams.

Aspect 43 the apparatus of aspect 19, wherein the power source comprises one or more batteries received within the housing, the one or more batteries having a capacity to maintain continuous operation of the apparatus for greater than 19 minutes at 200 watts total and approximately 13 minutes at 350 watts total.

Aspect 44, the apparatus of aspect 19, further comprising an airflow generating element housed in the housing and generating an airflow through an airflow passage defined in the housing, wherein a velocity of the airflow at an outlet of the airflow passage is at least 10 m/s.

Aspect 45 the apparatus of aspect 44, wherein the velocity of the gas flow at the gas flow channel outlet is at least 12 m/s.

Aspect 46 the apparatus of aspect 19, wherein the average power density of the infrared radiation measured 10 centimeters in front of the housing is at least 1x10³W/m in square meter²。

Aspect 47 the apparatus of aspect 19, wherein the body does not exceed 8 centimeters in dimension in any direction.

Aspect 48, an apparatus for drying an object, the apparatus comprising:

a housing;

a radiant energy source housed in the housing and generating and directing infrared radiation to an exterior of the housing; and

a power source providing power to at least the radiant energy source and the airflow generating element, wherein the power source comprises one or more batteries received within the housing,

wherein the weight of the device does not exceed 800 grams.

Aspect 49 the apparatus of aspect 48, wherein the radiant energy source comprises an infrared lamp.

Aspect 50 the apparatus of aspect 49 wherein the infrared lamp comprises a reflector having an opening to an exterior of the housing, an optical element abutting the opening of the reflector, and a radiation emitter located at an interior of the reflector.

Aspect 51 the apparatus of aspect 50, wherein the infrared lamp has a generally annular shape.

Aspect 52, the apparatus of aspect 50, wherein the infrared lamp has a generally conical shape.

Aspect 53 the apparatus of aspect 50, wherein the interior of the reflector has a degree of vacuum.

Aspect 54 the apparatus of aspect 50, wherein the reflector directs the infrared radiation toward the opening.

Aspect 55 the apparatus of aspect 50, wherein the reflective surface of the reflector is coated with a coating material having a high reflectivity to the wavelength generated by the radiation emitter.

Aspect 56 the apparatus of aspect 50, wherein the optical element filters out wavelengths in the visible spectrum and/or the ultraviolet spectrum from radiation emitted by the radiation emitter.

Aspect 57 the apparatus of aspect 50, wherein the optical element converges or reduces the infrared radiation in a predetermined direction by an angle of divergence of the infrared radiation.

Aspect 58 the apparatus of aspect 48, wherein the radiant energy source comprises a plurality of infrared lamps.

Aspect 59 the apparatus of aspect 58 wherein each of the plurality of infrared lamps comprises a reflector having an opening toward an exterior of the housing, an optical element abutting the opening of the reflector, and a radiation emitter located inside the reflector.

Aspect 60 the apparatus of aspect 58, wherein the plurality of infrared lamps are arranged along a ring.

Aspect 61 the apparatus of aspect 58, wherein the infrared radiation emitted from each of the plurality of infrared lamps overlaps at a preset distance in front of the airflow outlet.

Aspect 62 the apparatus of aspect 48, wherein the gas stream is not heated by the infrared radiation generated by the radiant energy source.

Aspect 63 is the apparatus of aspect 48, wherein the power source comprises one or more batteries received within the housing.

Aspect 64 the apparatus of aspect 63, wherein the housing comprises a body and a handle, and wherein the one or more batteries are at least partially received within the handle.

Aspect 65 the apparatus of aspect 64, wherein the handle is detachable from the body.

Aspect 66, the device of aspect 63, wherein the total capacity of the one or more batteries is 66.6 watt-hour Wh.

Aspect 67 the apparatus of aspect 63, wherein the capacity of the one or more batteries is capable of maintaining continuous operation of the apparatus for more than 19 minutes at 200 watts total and for about 13 minutes at 350 watts total.

Aspect 68, the apparatus of aspect 48, further comprising an airflow generating element housed in the housing and generating an airflow through an airflow passage defined in the housing, wherein a velocity of the airflow at an outlet of the airflow passage is at least 10 m/s.

Aspect 69 the apparatus of aspect 48, wherein the average power density of the infrared radiation measured at a distance of 10cm in front of the housing is at least 1x10³W/m in square meter²。

Aspect 70 the apparatus of aspect 64, wherein the body has a dimension in at least one direction of no more than 7 centimeters.

Aspect 71 the apparatus of aspect 64, wherein the body does not exceed 8 centimeters in dimension in any direction.

Aspect 72, an apparatus for drying an object, the apparatus comprising:

a housing;

a radiant energy source housed in the housing and generating and directing infrared radiation to an exterior of the housing; and

a power source providing power to at least the radiant energy source and the airflow-generating element, wherein the power source comprises one or more batteries received within the housing, the one or more batteries having a capacity to maintain continuous operation of the device for greater than 19 minutes at 200 watts total and approximately 13 minutes at 350 watts total.

Aspect 73 the apparatus of aspect 72, wherein the radiant energy source comprises an infrared lamp.

Aspect 74 the apparatus of aspect 73 wherein the infrared lamp comprises a reflector having an opening to an exterior of the housing, an optical element abutting the opening of the reflector, and a radiation emitter located at an interior of the reflector.

Aspect 75 the apparatus of aspect 74 wherein the infrared lamp has a generally annular shape.

Aspect 76 the apparatus of aspect 74 wherein the infrared lamp has a generally conical shape.

Aspect 77, the apparatus of aspect 72, wherein the radiant energy source comprises a plurality of infrared lamps.

Aspect 78 the apparatus of aspect 77, wherein each of the plurality of infrared lamps comprises a reflector having an opening toward an exterior of the housing, an optical element abutting the opening of the reflector, and a radiation emitter located inside the reflector.

Aspect 79 the apparatus of aspect 77, wherein the plurality of infrared lamps are arranged along a ring.

Aspect 80, the apparatus of aspect 77, wherein the infrared radiation emitted from each of the plurality of infrared lamps overlaps at a preset distance in front of the airflow outlet.

Aspect 81 the device of aspect 72, wherein the housing comprises a body and a handle, and wherein the one or more batteries are at least partially received within the handle.

Aspect 82 the apparatus of aspect 81, wherein the handle is detachable from the body.

Aspect 83, the device of aspect 72, wherein the total capacity of the one or more batteries is 66.6 watt-hour Wh.

Aspect 84, the apparatus of aspect 72, wherein the apparatus weighs no more than 800 grams.

Aspect 85, the apparatus of aspect 72, further comprising an airflow generating element housed in the housing and generating an airflow through an airflow passage defined in the housing, wherein a velocity of the airflow at an outlet of the airflow passage is at least 10 m/s.

Aspect 86 the apparatus of aspect 72, wherein the average power density of the infrared radiation measured at a distance of 10 centimeters in front of the housing is at least 1x10³Watt/square meterW/m²。

Aspect 87, the apparatus of aspect 81, wherein the body has a dimension in at least one direction of no more than 7 centimeters;

aspect 88 the apparatus of aspect 81, wherein the body does not exceed 8 centimeters in dimension in any direction.

Aspect 89, an apparatus for drying an object, the apparatus comprising:

a housing providing an airflow passage having an airflow inlet and an airflow outlet;

an airflow generating element that is housed in the housing and generates an airflow through the airflow passage, wherein a velocity of the airflow at an outlet of the airflow passage is at least 10 m/s;

a radiant energy source positioned in the housing and generating and directing infrared radiation to an exterior of the housing, the infrared radiation being directed toward an object being dried; and

a power source providing power to at least the radiant energy source and the airflow generating element.

Aspect 90, an apparatus for drying an object, the apparatus comprising:

a housing;

a radiant energy source housed in the housing and generating and directing infrared radiation to an exterior of the housing, wherein an average power density of the infrared radiation measured in a circular spot of radiation 10 centimeters in diameter at a distance of 10 centimeters in front of the housing is at least 1x10³Watt/square meter W/m²(ii) a And

a power source providing power to at least the radiant energy source.

Aspect 91 the apparatus of aspect 90, wherein the radiant energy source comprises an infrared lamp.

The apparatus of aspect 92, wherein the infrared lamp comprises a laser device.

Aspect 93 the apparatus of aspect 92, wherein the laser device is a carbon dioxide laser.

Aspect 94 the apparatus of aspect 92, wherein the laser device includes an optical element that diverges the infrared radiation in a predetermined direction.

Aspect 95 the apparatus of aspect 91, wherein the infrared lamp comprises a reflector having an opening to an exterior of the housing, an optical element abutting the opening of the reflector, and a radiation emitter located at an interior of the reflector.

Aspect 96 the apparatus of aspect 95, wherein the infrared lamp has a generally annular shape.

Aspect 97 the apparatus of aspect 95, wherein the radiation emitter has a substantially annular shape.

Aspect 98 the apparatus of aspect 95 wherein the infrared lamp has a generally conical shape.

Aspect 99 the apparatus of aspect 95, wherein the radiation emitter emits radiation having a wavelength in a range of 0.7 μm to 20 μm.

Aspect 100 the apparatus of claim 95, wherein the radiation emitter comprises a conductive resistor, a ceramic heater, or an LED.

Aspect 101 the apparatus of aspect 95, wherein the interior of the reflector has a degree of vacuum.

Aspect 102 the apparatus of aspect 101, wherein the interior of the reflector comprises an inert gas.

Aspect 103 is the apparatus of aspect 95, wherein the reflector directs the infrared radiation toward the opening.

Aspect 104 the apparatus of aspect 103, wherein the reflector directs the infrared radiation toward the opening.

Aspect 105 the apparatus of aspect 103, wherein the reflector reduces a divergence angle of the reflected infrared radiation.

Aspect 106 the apparatus of aspect 103, wherein the reflective surface of the reflector is substantially parabolic in cross-section.

Aspect 107, the apparatus of aspect 95, wherein the reflective surface of the reflector is coated with a coating material having a high reflectivity to the wavelength generated by the radiation emitter.

Aspect 108 the device of aspect 95, wherein the optical element filters out wavelengths in the visible spectrum and/or the ultraviolet spectrum from radiation emitted by the radiation emitter.

Aspect 109 the device of aspect 95, wherein the optical element converges or reduces the infrared radiation in a predetermined direction by an angle of divergence of the infrared radiation.

Aspect 110, the apparatus of aspect 90, wherein the radiant energy source comprises a plurality of infrared lamps.

Aspect 111 the apparatus of aspect 110, wherein each of the plurality of infrared lamps comprises a reflector having an opening toward an exterior of the housing, an optical element abutting the opening of the reflector, and a radiation emitter located at an interior of the reflector.

Aspect 112 the apparatus of aspect 111 wherein the interior of the reflector has a degree of vacuum.

Aspect 113 the apparatus of aspect 111, wherein the reflective surface of the reflector is substantially parabolic in cross-section.

Aspect 114, the apparatus of aspect 111, wherein the reflective surface of the reflector is coated with a coating material having a high reflectivity to the wavelength generated by the radiation emitter.

Aspect 115, the apparatus of aspect 111, wherein the optical element filters out wavelengths in the visible spectrum and/or the ultraviolet spectrum.

Aspect 116 the apparatus of aspect 110, wherein the plurality of infrared lamps are arranged along a ring.

Aspect 117 the apparatus of aspect 116, wherein the axis of each of the plurality of infrared lamps intersects with each other.

Aspect 118, the apparatus of aspect 116, wherein the infrared radiation emitted from each of the plurality of infrared lamps overlaps at a distance of about 10 centimeters in front of the housing to form a circular spot having a diameter of about 10 centimeters.

Aspect 119, the apparatus of aspect 118, wherein the circular spot receives at least 60% of the energy of the infrared radiation emitted from each of the plurality of infrared lamps.

Aspect 120, the apparatus of aspect 118, wherein the average power density in the circular spot is at least 1x10³Watt/square meter W/m²。

Aspect 121, an apparatus for drying an object, the apparatus comprising:

a housing providing an airflow passage having an airflow inlet and an airflow outlet;

an airflow generating element that is accommodated in the housing and generates an airflow through the airflow passage;

a radiant energy source housed in the housing and generating and directing infrared radiation outside of the housing, wherein an output of the radiant energy source is separate from the airflow outlet; and

a power source providing power to at least the radiant energy source and the airflow generating element.

Aspect 122, the apparatus of aspect 121, wherein the radiant energy source comprises an infrared lamp.

Aspect 123, the apparatus of aspect 122, wherein the infrared lamp is a plurality.

Aspect 124, the apparatus of aspect 122, wherein the infrared lamp has a generally conical shape.

Aspect 125 the apparatus of aspect 122, wherein the infrared lamp has a generally annular shape.

Aspect 126 the apparatus of aspect 125, wherein the radiation emitter has a substantially annular shape.

The apparatus of aspect 127, aspect 124 or aspect 125, wherein the infrared lamp surrounds the gas flow outlet.

The apparatus of aspect 128, the aspect 124 or aspect 125, wherein the infrared lamp is surrounded by the gas flow outlet.

Aspect 129, the apparatus of aspect 123, wherein the plurality of infrared lamps are arranged in an array or along a ring.

Aspect 130 the apparatus of aspect 123 wherein each of the plurality of infrared lamps has a generally conical shape.

Aspect 131, the apparatus of aspect 130, wherein the plurality of infrared lamps surround the gas flow outlet.

Aspect 132 the apparatus of aspect 130, wherein the plurality of infrared lamps are surrounded by the gas flow outlet.

Aspect 133 the apparatus of aspect 122 or aspect 123 wherein the infrared lamp comprises a reflector having an opening to the exterior of the housing, an optical element abutting the opening of the reflector, and a radiation emitter located inside the reflector.

Aspect 134 the apparatus of aspect 133, wherein the radiation emitter comprises a conductive resistor, a ceramic heater, or an LED.

Aspect 135 the apparatus of aspect 133, wherein the radiation emitter emits radiation having a wavelength in a range of 0.7 μ ι η to 20 μ ι η.

Aspect 136 the apparatus of aspect 133, wherein the reflector directs the infrared radiation toward the opening.

Aspect 137 the apparatus of aspect 136, wherein the reflector directs the infrared radiation toward the opening.

Aspect 138 the apparatus of aspect 136, wherein the reflector reduces a divergence angle of the reflected infrared radiation.

Aspect 139 the apparatus of aspect 136, wherein the reflective surface of the reflector is substantially parabolic in cross-section.

Aspect 140, the apparatus of aspect 133, wherein the reflective surface of the reflector is coated with a coating material having a high reflectivity to the wavelength generated by the radiation emitter.

Aspect 141, the apparatus of aspect 140, wherein the coating material has a high reflectivity for wavelengths in the infrared spectrum.

Aspect 142, the apparatus of aspect 140, wherein the coating material comprises one of: gold, silver and aluminum.

Aspect 143 the apparatus of aspect 140, wherein the coating material comprises a metal dielectric coating having alternating layers of dielectric material.

Aspect 144, the apparatus of aspect 133, wherein the interior of the reflector has a degree of vacuum.

Aspect 145 the apparatus of aspect 144, wherein the pressure of the interior of the reflector is about 0.7atm or less.

Aspect 146, the apparatus of aspect 144, wherein the interior of the reflector comprises an inert gas.

Aspect 147, the apparatus of aspect 133, wherein the optical element is an optical lens.

Aspect 148 is the apparatus of aspect 133, wherein the optical element filters out wavelengths in the visible spectrum and/or the ultraviolet spectrum from radiation emitted by the radiation emitter.

Aspect 149 the apparatus of aspect 133, wherein the optical element converges or reduces the infrared radiation in a predetermined direction by an angle of divergence of the infrared radiation.

Aspect 150 the apparatus of aspect 133, wherein a portion of the airflow is directed from the airflow channel to the optical element.

Aspect 151 the apparatus of aspect 133, further comprising a thermally insulating material located at least one of: between the radiation emitter and the reflector such that the radiation emitter is thermally insulated from the reflector; alternatively, the periphery of the optical element and the reflector are such that the optical element is thermally insulated from the reflector.

The apparatus of aspect 152, aspect 122 or aspect 123, wherein the infrared lamp comprises a laser device.

Aspect 153 the apparatus of aspect 152, wherein the laser device includes an optical element that diverges the infrared radiation along a predetermined direction.

Aspect 154, the apparatus of aspect 123, wherein each of the plurality of infrared lamps comprises a reflector having an opening toward an exterior of the housing, an optical element abutting the opening of the reflector, and a radiation emitter located at an interior of the reflector.

Aspect 155 is the apparatus of aspect 154, wherein the optical element converges or reduces the infrared radiation in a predetermined direction by an angle of divergence of the infrared radiation.

Aspect 156, the apparatus of aspect 155, wherein the directions of the infrared radiation emitted from each of the plurality of infrared lamps intersect one another.

Aspect 157 the apparatus of aspect 155, wherein the infrared radiation emitted from each of the plurality of infrared lamps overlaps at a preset distance in front of the airflow outlet.

Aspect 158, the apparatus of aspect 157, wherein the axis of each of the plurality of infrared lamps intersects one another.

Aspect 159, the apparatus of aspect 157, wherein the infrared radiation emitted from each of the plurality of infrared lamps overlaps at a distance of about 10 centimeters in front of the gas flow outlet to form a circular spot of about 10 centimeters in diameter.

Aspect 160, the apparatus of aspect 159, wherein said circular spot receives at least 60% of the energy of said infrared radiation emitted from each of said plurality of infrared lamps.

Aspect 161, the apparatus of aspect 159, wherein the average power density in the circular spots is at least 1x10³Watt/square meter W/m²。

Aspect 162 the apparatus of aspect 121, wherein an air filter is disposed at the airflow inlet.

Aspect 163, the apparatus of aspect 121, wherein the airflow generating element comprises a fan driven by a motor, rotation of the fan generating the airflow through the airflow channel when the fan is actuated.

Aspect 164, the apparatus of aspect 163, wherein the rotational speed of the fan is adjustable.

Aspect 165 the device of aspect 121, wherein the power source comprises one or more batteries received within the housing.

Aspect 166, the apparatus of aspect 165, wherein the one or more batteries are rechargeable and/or replaceable.

Aspect 167 the device of aspect 165, wherein the housing comprises a body and a handle, and wherein the one or more batteries are at least partially received within the handle.

Aspect 168, the apparatus of aspect 167, wherein the handle is detachable from the body.

Aspect 169 the apparatus of aspect 167, wherein at least a portion of the airflow inlet is disposed at the body.

Aspect 170, the apparatus of aspect 167, wherein at least a portion of the airflow inlet is disposed at the handle.

Aspect 171, the apparatus of aspect 167, wherein at least a portion of the airflow outlet is disposed at the body.

Aspect 172, the apparatus of aspect 167, wherein at least a portion of the airflow outlet is disposed at the handle.

Aspect 173 is the apparatus of aspect 121, wherein the power source comprises a power adapter connected to the power source by a cord.

Aspect 174 is the apparatus of aspect 121, wherein the airflow channel surrounds an outer periphery of the radiant energy source.

Aspect 175 the apparatus of aspect 121, wherein the radiant energy source surrounds an outer periphery of the gas flow channel.

Aspect 176 is the apparatus of aspect 121, wherein the radiant energy source causes the temperature of the gas flow through the gas flow passage to increase by no more than 5 degrees celsius.

Aspect 177 the apparatus of aspect 176, wherein the radiant energy source causes a temperature increase of the gas flow through the gas flow passage of no more than 3 degrees celsius.

Aspect 178, the apparatus of aspect 121, further comprising at least one sensor disposed at the housing.

Aspect 179, the apparatus of aspect 178, wherein the at least one sensor comprises a temperature sensor, a proximity sensor, or a humidity sensor.

Aspect 180, the apparatus of aspect 121, wherein the object is hair or fabric.