Abstract:
A device for distributing at least one wire within a housing, comprising a central hub and at least one arm extending from the central hub towards the housing and wherein the at least one arm houses the at least one wire. The housing may be a tube having a larger diameter than the central hub. The at least one arm may comprise a pair of arms. The pair of arms may describe a Y shape. The device may be formed from a first part and a second part that may both provide a portion of the at least one arm and may both provide a portion of the hub. Also disclosed is a hand held appliance comprising a tube defining a fluid flow path from a fluid inlet into the tube to a fluid outlet from the tube and a device for distributing at least one wire to the tube.

Description:
REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    This application claims the priority of United Kingdom Application No. 1321809.4, filed Dec. 10, 2013, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. 
       FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
       [0002]    This invention relates to a hand held appliance and in particular a hair care appliance such as a hairdryer. 
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0003]    Generally, a motor and fan are provided which draw fluid into a body; the fluid may be heated prior to exiting the body. The motor is susceptible to damage from foreign objects such as dirt or hair so conventionally a filter is provided at the fluid intake end of the blower. Conventionally such appliances are provided with a nozzle which can be attached and detached from the appliance and changes the shape and velocity of fluid flow that exits the appliance. Such nozzles can be used to focus the outflow of the appliance or to diffuse the outflow depending on the requirements of the user at that time. 
         [0004]    The fan and heater require power in order to function and this is provided via internal wiring from either a mains power cable or batteries attached to the appliance. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0005]    According to a first aspect, the invention provides a device for distributing at least one wire within a housing, the device comprising a central hub and at least one arm extending from the central hub towards the housing and wherein the at least one arm houses the at least one wire. 
         [0006]    Preferably, the housing is a tube having a larger diameter than the central hub. 
         [0007]    It is preferred that the at least one arm comprises a pair of arms. Preferably, there are two wires and each one of the pair of arms houses a wire. It is preferred that an arm is provided to house each wire, for example if there were four wires, four arms would be provided. 
         [0008]    Preferably, the at least one arm is symmetrical. The at least one arm is preferably symmetrical in cross section and/or outline or silhouette. Where more than one arm is provided, each one of the arms is symmetrically spaced around the central hub. Where a pair of arms is provided, preferably each one of the pair of arms is diametrically spaced apart. Preferably, the pair of arms is symmetrical. It is preferred that the pair of arms describes a Y shape. 
         [0009]    Preferably, the at least one arm encases and electrically isolates the at least one wire. 
         [0010]    It is preferred that the wires are delivered to the housing by a cable. Preferably, the cable is connectable to a power source at a distal end from the housing. Alternatively, the wires extend from an internal power source such as a battery or fuel cell, for example. 
         [0011]    Preferably, the central hub houses the cable. 
         [0012]    It is preferred that the device is moulded from a plastic material. 
         [0013]    Preferably, the device is formed from a first part and a second part. 
         [0014]    It is preferred that the first part and the second part both provide a portion of the at least one arm. This simplifies assembly, as the wires and optional cable can be located with respect to one of the first part and the second part and then retained in this position by the other part when the device is assembled. 
         [0015]    Preferably, the first part and the second part both provide a portion of the hub. This also simplifies assembly, as the wires and optional cable can be located with respect to one of the first part and the second part and then retained in this position by the other part when the device is assembled. 
         [0016]    It is preferred that the housing is a handle of an appliance. 
         [0017]    According to a second aspect, the invention provides a hand held appliance comprising a tube defining a fluid flow path from a fluid inlet into the tube to a fluid outlet from the tube and a device for distributing at least one wire to the tube wherein the device comprises a central hub and at least one arm extending from the central hub towards the tube and wherein the at least one arm houses the at least one wire. 
         [0018]    Preferably, the at least one arm extends across the fluid flow path. Preferably, the at least one arm is symmetrical in cross section. Preferably, the at least one arm extends symmetrically with respect to the fluid flow path. Preferably, there are two arms and each arm is symmetrical. When there is more than one arm, the arms are preferably, equally spaced around the central hub. When there is more than one arm each arm is substantially the same in cross section, length and footprint exposed within the fluid flow path. Thus each arm has the same external outline or silhouette. Each of these features reduces turbulence created by the arms within the fluid flow path so minimises pressure losses and noise created. 
         [0019]    In a preferred embodiment, there are two wires and the at least one arm comprises two arms, one for housing each wire. 
         [0020]    Where a pair of arms is provided, it is preferred that the two arms are diametrically spaced apart. 
         [0021]    The at least one arm is preferably symmetrical in cross section. Thus, fluid flows evenly around each side of the at least one arm. This prevents the formation of an asymmetric flow around an arm which would create turbulence and noise. 
         [0022]    It is preferred that the pair of arms describes a Y shape. This shape has two benefits, the path taken by the wires from the central hub to the tube is curved so there is less chance of kinking of the wires and it provides axial reinforcement against any forces applied to the cable. 
         [0023]    It is preferred that the central hub is located in approximately the middle of the tube. 
         [0024]    Preferably, the at least one arm extends from the central hub towards the fluid outlet of the tube. In this embodiment, the at least one arm follows the flow of fluid within the fluid flow path. 
         [0025]    It is preferred that the at least one arm is shaped to minimise flow disturbance and turbulence created within the fluid flow path. Preferably, the at least one arm has a tapered back face. It is preferred that the tapered back face has a taper of 45° to 0°. Alternatively, the at least one arm has a symmetrical aerofoil cross section. This reduces flow separation and the production of turbulence at the downstream end of the at least one arm. 
         [0026]    In a preferred embodiment, the device comprises at least one reinforcing rib extending radially from the central hub towards the tube. Preferably the at least one reinforcing rib extends axially along at least a portion of the tube. 
         [0027]    One or more reinforcing rib preferably extends from the at least one arm towards the fluid inlet. 
         [0028]    The at least one reinforcing rib increases the hoop strength of the tube and reduces the stresses transferred to the tube when the cable is bent towards the tube. 
         [0029]    Preferably, the at least one reinforcing rib is curved towards the fluid inlet of the tube. Whilst the reinforcing rib has the benefit of structurally supporting the tube, it has the counter effect of blocking part of the fluid inlet. In order to minimise any blocking or restriction to fluid entering the fluid inlet the thickness of the rib is reduced towards the inlet. Where a reinforcing rib extends from an arm, the rib is sculpted around the cable. 
         [0030]    Preferably, the at least one arm encases and electrically isolates the at least one wire. 
         [0031]    It is preferred that the at least one wire is delivered to the housing by a cable. Preferably, the cable is connectable to a power source at a distal end from the housing. 
         [0032]    Preferably, the central hub houses the cable. 
         [0033]    It is preferred that the device is moulded from a plastic material. 
         [0034]    Preferably, the device is formed from a first part and a second part. It is preferred that the first part and the second part both provide a portion of the at least one arm. Preferably, the first part and the second part both provide a portion of the hub. 
         [0035]    It is preferred that the tube comprises a wire guide extending at least partially along the tube towards the fluid outlet of the tube. 
         [0036]    Preferably, the wire guide isolates the at least one wire from the fluid flow path. 
         [0037]    It is preferred that the at least one arm aligns with the wire guide to provide a path for wires from the cable through the device and along the tube. 
         [0038]    Preferably, the tube comprises a handle of the appliance. 
         [0039]    According to a third aspect the invention provides a hair care appliance comprising a tube defining a fluid flow path from a fluid inlet into the tube to a fluid outlet from the tube and a device for distributing wires to the tube wherein the device comprises a central hub and at least one arm extending from the central hub towards the tube and wherein the at least one arm houses the wires. 
         [0040]    Preferably, the appliance is a hairdryer. Preferably, the tube comprises a handle of the appliance. 
         [0041]    According to a fourth aspect the invention provides a hand held appliance comprising a body, a handle having a first end connected to the body and a second end comprising a fluid inlet, a fluid flow path from the fluid inlet through the handle towards the body, a fan unit for drawing fluid along the fluid flow path and a cable extending from the second end of the handle for supplying power to the fan unit wherein at least one wire from the cable is routed along a wall of the handle. 
         [0042]    Preferably, the wall of the handle comprises at least one recess extending longitudinally along the handle for accommodating the at least one wire from the cable. In this embodiment, the cable has two wires, so it is preferred that the wall comprises two recesses extending longitudinally along the handle one recess for accommodating each of the two wires from the cable. Preferably, the two recesses are approximately diametrically opposite in the wall. 
         [0043]    Preferably, the wall is formed from two half cylinders extending along the handle from the first end. It is preferred that the two half cylinders abut together along a longitudinal edge to form the wall. 
         [0044]    Preferably, the at least one wire from the cable is housed within the longitudinal edge. 
         [0045]    It is preferred that a first one of the two half cylinders comprises a recess formed within the longitudinal edge and the at least one wire is housed within the recess. Preferably, the first one of the two half cylinders comprises a pair of recesses one disposed along each longitudinal edge of the first one of the two half cylinders. Alternatively, or additionally a second one of the two half cylinders comprises at least one further recess formed within a longitudinal edge. Preferably, the at least one further recess is disposed radially spaced from the recess. Alternatively, the at least one further recess is adjacent the recess when the two half cylinders abut together. 
         [0046]    Preferably, the handle comprises an end wall and the cable extends through the end wall. It is preferred that the cable is located approximately centrally within the end wall. 
         [0047]    Preferably, the cable is housed within a cable guide. The cable guide is additionally a device for distributing wires within the handle. Preferably, the cable guide surrounds the cable isolating the cable from the fluid flow path. 
         [0048]    It is preferred that the cable guide comprises a central cylinder for housing the cable. Preferably, the cable guide further comprises at least one arm for guiding the at least one wire from the cable to the wall. 
         [0049]    It is preferred that the at least one arm is shaped to minimise flow disturbance within the fluid flow path. 
         [0050]    Preferably, the at least one arm has a tapered back face. Alternatively, the at least one arm has a symmetrical aerofoil cross-section. 
         [0051]    It is preferred that the at least one arm extends along the fluid flow path towards the body from the central cylinder to the inner wall. Preferably, the cable guide includes two arms radially spaced around the cable guide one housing a live wire and the other a neutral wire. Preferably, the cable guide is Y-shaped. It is preferred that the cable guide is formed in two parts. Preferably, one part of the cable guide is formed integrally with one of the two half cylinders. It is preferred that a second part of the cable guide is formed integrally with a second of the two half cylinders. 
         [0052]    Preferably, the wall of the handle is moulded from a plastic material. 
         [0053]    It is preferred that the handle comprises an outer wall which extends around the wall of the handle. Thus, the wall of the handle is an inner wall. 
         [0054]    Preferably, the fan unit is provided in the handle of the appliance. 
         [0055]    It is preferred that the fan unit includes a motor and an impeller. 
         [0056]    The at least one wire is retained in a recess for at least some of the length of the handle, the at least one wire may be retained in a recess for substantially the whole length of the handle. Any of the recess, pair of recesses and the at least one further recess extend at least partially along the wall. 
         [0057]    Alternatively, the at least one wire is partially retained by a recess and partially retained by a channel. It is preferred that the channel is radially spaced from the longitudinal edge of the two half cylinders. Thus in embodiments where a recess is formed in a longitudinal edge, the channel is radially spaced from the recess. The channel is preferably provided centrally of and extends longitudinally along one of the two half cylinders that the wall of the handle is preferably formed from. The channel is preferably provided within the region of the handle that houses the fan unit. One reason for providing the channel is for ease of assembly of the appliance. Thus, the at least one wire is placed in the channel, the fan unit and housing is positioned within the half cylinder over the at least one wire retaining it in position around the fan unit, the at least one wire is then routed along a recess in the wall towards the cable. 
         [0058]    According to a fifth aspect the invention provides a hair care appliance comprising a body, a handle having a first end connected to the body and a second end comprising a fluid inlet, a fluid flow path from the fluid inlet through the handle towards the body, a fan unit for drawing fluid along the fluid flow path and a cable extending from the second end of the handle for supplying power to the fan unit wherein at least one wire from the cable is routed along a wall of the handle. 
         [0059]    Preferably, the hair care appliance is a hairdryer or a hot styling brush. 
         [0060]    According to a sixth aspect the invention provides a hand held appliance comprising a duct and a switch, the switch comprises a user operable button, electrical contacts and a push rod wherein, the button is housed on an external surface of the duct, the electrical contacts are housed on an internal surface of the duct and the push rod physically connects the button to the electrical contacts. 
         [0061]    Preferably, the duct is generally circular and the electrical contacts are housed approximately diametrically opposite the button. 
         [0062]    It is preferred that the duct is a handle of the appliance. 
         [0063]    Preferably, the duct comprises an inner wall and the electrical contacts are housed on the inner wall. It is preferred that the inner wall defines a fluid flow path through the handle. 
         [0064]    Preferably, the switch further comprises a guide rod for guiding the push rod across the duct. It is preferred that the guide rod forms part of an inner wall of the duct and extends at least partially across the duct. Preferably, the guide rod extends radially across the duct. It is preferred that the guide rod is at least partially supported by the electrical contacts. Preferably, the electrical contacts are at least partially embedded in the inner wall of the duct. 
         [0065]    It is preferred that the guide rod supports the push rod across the duct. 
         [0066]    Preferably, the guide rod extends from the inner wall across a fluid flow path. It is preferred that the guide rod is shaped to mitigate creation of turbulence as fluid flows along the fluid flow path. Preferably, the push rod is generally cylindrical in shape. Preferably, the guide rod comprises an aperture and the push rod extends through the aperture. 
         [0067]    It is preferred that the guide rod has a downstream end and an upstream end and the upstream end is rounded. Preferably the guide rod has a downstream end and an upstream end and the downstream end is pointed. The downstream end of the guide rod can be an aerofoil or drafted with a tapered back face to minimise flow separation, turbulence and the creation of noise within the fluid flow path. 
         [0068]    According to a seventh aspect, the invention provides a hair care appliance comprising a duct and a switch, the switch comprises a user operable button, electrical contacts and a push rod wherein, the button is housed on an external surface of the duct, the electrical contacts are housed on an internal surface of the duct and the push rod physically connects the button to the electrical contacts. 
         [0069]    Preferably, the hair care appliance is a hairdryer. 
         [0070]    According to an eighth aspect the invention provides a hand held appliance comprising a body, a handle, a fluid flow path flowing from a fluid inlet into the handle to a fluid outlet from the body and a baffle wherein the fluid flow path is non-linear and the baffle directs flow within the fluid flow path. 
         [0071]    Preferably, the fluid flow path flows in a first direction within the handle and a second direction within the body. 
         [0072]    It is preferred that the baffle is provided to direct flow between the handle and the body. It is preferred that the baffle extends from the handle into a space defined within the body. 
         [0073]    Preferably, the handle comprises a wall that defines the fluid flow path within the handle. 
         [0074]    Preferably, the baffle forms a partial continuation of the wall. 
         [0075]    It is preferred that the body and the handle are moulded as a first part and a second part. Preferably, the baffle is formed from a handle part and a body part. It is preferred that the handle part of the baffle is moulded as part of the first part. It is preferred that the body part of the baffle is moulded as part of the second part. 
         [0076]    Preferably, the body part of the baffle forms a partial continuation of the handle wall within the body. 
         [0077]    Preferably, the handle part of the baffle is moulded as part of the first part. It is preferred that the body part of the baffle is moulded as part of the second part. 
         [0078]    Preferably, the body comprises an outer wall and the handle comprises a wall each at least partially defining the fluid flow path from the fluid inlet to the fluid outlet. 
         [0079]    It is preferred that the first part of the appliance comprises a first portion of the wall of the handle. Preferably, the second part of the appliance comprises the outer wall of the body and a second portion of the wall of the handle. Preferably, when the first par and the second part are assembled a complete handle wall is produced. This handle wall is preferably located upstream of the fluid inlet. It is preferred that the handle comprises an outer wall that surrounds the wall and includes the fluid inlet. 
         [0080]    It is preferred that baffle is arcuate. Preferably, the baffle is radially arcuate. 
         [0081]    Preferably, the fluid flow path in the body is substantially orthogonal to the fluid flow path in the handle. 
         [0082]    It is preferred that the body has an upstream end and a downstream end and the fluid outlet is located at or near the downstream end. 
         [0083]    Preferably, the handle is located towards the upstream end of the body. 
         [0084]    It is preferred that a PCB is provided within the body between the handle and the upstream end of the body. Preferably, the baffle reduces interaction between the fluid flowing from the handle and the PCB. 
         [0085]    It is preferred that the baffle includes a slot. 
         [0086]    Preferably, the PCB comprises a flexible extension that extends from the PCB to a control button located on the handle. 
         [0087]    It is preferred that the flexible extension passes through the slot in the baffle. 
         [0088]    According to a ninth aspect, the invention provides a hair has appliance comprising a body, a handle, a fluid flow path flowing from a fluid inlet into the handle to a fluid outlet from the body and a baffle wherein the fluid flow path is non-linear and the baffle directs flow within the fluid flow path. 
         [0089]    Preferably, the hair care appliance is a hairdryer. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0090]    The invention will now be described by example, with reference to the accompanying figures, of which: 
           [0091]      FIG. 1  shows a cross section through an appliance according to the invention; 
           [0092]      FIG. 2  shows an isometric view of a device according to the invention; 
           [0093]      FIG. 3  shows a cross section through the device of  FIG. 2 ; 
           [0094]      FIG. 4   a  shows a plan view of the device of  FIG. 3 ; 
           [0095]      FIG. 4   b  shows the strain relief on the cable in more detail; 
           [0096]      FIG. 5  shows an isometric view of a device according to the invention; 
           [0097]      FIG. 6  shows a cross-section through an arm of the device of  FIG. 5 ; 
           [0098]      FIG. 7   a  shows a cross section through a handle of an appliance; 
           [0099]      FIG. 7   b  shows a cross section through a device within a handle of an appliance; 
           [0100]      FIGS. 8   a  and  8   b  show different cross sections through the inner wall of a handle of an appliance; 
           [0101]      FIGS. 9   a  and  9   b  show different perspective exploded views of an on/off switch; 
           [0102]      FIGS. 10   a  and  10   b  show different cross sectional views through an on/off switch; 
           [0103]      FIGS. 11   a  and  11   b  show rear and front isometric projections of an on/off switch; and 
           [0104]      FIG. 12  shows internal details of part of a handle of an appliance. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
       [0105]      FIG. 1  shows a hairdryer  10  with a handle  20  and a body  30 . The handle has a first end  22  which is connected to the body  30  and a second end  24  distal from the body  30  and which includes a primary inlet  40 . Power is supplied to the hairdryer  10  via a cable  50 . At a distal end of the cable  50  from the hairdryer  10  a plug (not shown) is provided, the plug may provide electrical connection to mains power or to a battery pack for example. 
         [0106]    The body  30  has a first end  32  and a second end  34  and can be considered to have two parts. A first part  36  which extends from the first end  32  which is tubular and of a generally consistent diameter and a second part  38  which extends from the second end  34  to join the first part  36 . The second part  38  is cone shaped and varies in diameter along its length from the diameter of the first part  36  of the body  30  to a smaller diameter at the second end  34  of the body. 
         [0107]    The handle  20  has an outer wall  200  which extends from the body  30  to a distal end  24  of the handle. At the distal end  24  of the handle an end wall  210  extends across the outer wall  200 . The cable  50  enters the hairdryer through this end wall  210 . The primary inlet  40  in the handle  20  includes first apertures  42  that extend around and along the outer wall  200  of the handle and second apertures  46  that extend across and through the end wall  210  of the handle  20 . The cable  50  is located approximately in the middle of the end wall  210  so extends from the centre of the handle  20 . The end wall  210  is orthogonal to the outer wall  200  and inner wall  220  of the handle. 
         [0108]    It is preferred that the cable  50  extends centrally from the handle  20  as this means the hairdryer is balanced regardless of the orientation of the handle  20  in a users&#39; hand. Also, if the user moves the position of their hand on the handle  20  there will be no tugging from the cable  50  as it does not change position with respect to the hand when the hand is moved. If the cable were offset and nearer one side of the handle then the weight distribution of the hairdryer would change with orientation which is distracting for the user. 
         [0109]    Upstream of the primary inlet  40 , a fan unit  70  is provided. The fan unit  70  includes a fan and a motor. The fan unit  70  draws fluid through the primary inlet  40  towards the body  30  through a fluid flow path  400  that extends from the primary inlet  40  and into the body  30  where the handle  20  and the body  30  are joined  90 . The fluid flow path  400  continues through the body  30  towards the second end  34  of the body, through a heater  80  and to a primary fluid outlet  440  where fluid that is drawn in by the fan unit exits the primary fluid flow path  400 . The primary fluid flow path  400  is non linear and flows through the handle  20  in a first direction and through the body  30  in a second direction which is orthogonal to the first direction. 
         [0110]    The body  30  includes an outer wall  360  and a duct  310 . The primary fluid flow path  400  extends along the body from the junction  90  of the handle  20  and the body  30  between the outer wall  360  and the duct  310  towards the primary fluid outlet  440  at the second end of the body  30 . 
         [0111]    Another fluid flow path is provided within the body; this flow is not directly processed by the fan unit or the heater but is drawn into the hairdryer by the action of the fan unit producing the primary flow through the hairdryer. This fluid flow is entrained into the hairdryer by the fluid flowing through the primary fluid flow path  400 . 
         [0112]    The first end  32  of the body includes a fluid inlet  320  and the second end  34  of the body includes a fluid outlet  340 . Both the fluid inlet  320  and the fluid outlet  340  are at least partially defined by the duct  310  which is an inner wall of the body  30  and extends within and along the body. A fluid flow path  300  extends within the duct from the fluid inlet  320  to the fluid outlet  340 . 
         [0113]    The inner duct is formed from a cone or trumpet shaped portion  350  and a tubular part  312 . At the first end  32  of the body  30 , the cone portion  350  extends between the tubular part  312  and the outer wall  360 . This cone portion  350  at least partially defines the fluid inlet  320 . At the second end  34  of the body a gap  370  is provided between the outer wall  360  and the tubular part  312 , this gap  370  defines the primary fluid outlet  440 . The primary fluid outlet  440  is annular and surrounds the fluid flow path  300 . The primary fluid outlet  440  may be internal so the primary fluid flow path  400  merges with the fluid flow path  300  within the body  30 . Alternatively, the primary fluid outlet  440  is external and exits from the body  30  separately to the fluid from the fluid flow path  300  at the fluid outlet  340 . 
         [0114]    The duct  310  is an internal wall of the hairdryer that can be accessed from outside the hairdryer. Thus, the duct  310  is an external wall of the hairdryer. The duct  310  is recessed within the body  30  so the cone portion  350  that connects between the outer wall  360  and the tubular portion  312  of the duct  310  is angled with respect to the outer wall  360 . 
         [0115]    A PCB  75  including the control electronics for the hairdryer is located in the body  30  near the side wall  350  and fluid inlet  320 . The PCB  75  is ring shaped and extends round the duct  310  between the duct  310  and the outer wall  360 . The PCB  75  is in fluid communication with the primary fluid flow path  400 . The PCB  75  extends about the fluid flow path  300  and is isolated from the fluid flow path  300  by the duct  310 . 
         [0116]    The PCB  75  controls such parameters as the temperature of the heater  80  and the speed of rotation of the fan unit  70 . Internal wiring (not shown) electrically connects the PCB  75  to the heater  80  and the fan unit  70  and the cable  50 . Control buttons  62 ,  64  are provided and connected to the PCB  75  to enable a user to select from a range of temperature settings and flow rates for example. 
         [0117]    In use, fluid is drawn into the primary fluid flow path  400  by the action of the fan unit  70 , is optionally heated by the heater  80  and exits from the primary fluid outlet  440 . This processed flow causes fluid to be entrained into the fluid flow path  300  at the fluid inlet  320 . The fluid combines with the processed flow at the second end  34  of the body. Thus fluid that is processed by the fan unit and heater is augmented by the entrained flow. 
         [0118]    Referring now to  FIGS. 2 to 4  and  7   b  in particular a device  100  for distributing wires  102 ,  104  has a central hub  110  which houses a cable  50  and a pair of arms  120 ,  122  which house the wires  102 ,  104  as they are routed from the central hub  110  towards an inner wall  220  of a handle  20  of an appliance  10 . 
         [0119]    The inner wall  220  has a greater diameter than the central hub  110  so the wires  102 ,  104  with the arms  120 ,  122  extend from the central hub  110  radially outwards towards the inner wall  220  forming a generally “Y” shaped device  100 . 
         [0120]    The inner wall  220  is shaped and perforated to reduce turbulence within the fluid flow path and to mitigate noise. The inner wall  220  has a downstream end  222  which curves from the outer wall  200  radially inwards to provide a space between the outer wall  200  and the inner wall  220  in which a lining material  202  is positioned. The lining material  202  along with the perforations  422  in the inner wall  220  absorb sounds and/or vibrations produced within the handle  20 . The curve of the inner wall  220  at the downstream end  222  guides fluid from the fluid inlet  40  towards a narrower cross sectional area where the lining material  202  is located. 
         [0121]    The device  100  has a central hub  110  which sits in the middle of the fluid flow to the inner wall  220  from the fluid inlet  40 . The central hub  110  is spaced away from the downstream end  222  of the inner wall  200  to reduce the impact of the central hub  110  on fluid flowing within the fluid flow path  400 . If the central hub  110  is closely spaced to the downstream end  222  of the inner wall  220  then noise is created along with turbulence within the flow. 
         [0122]    In this example, the device  100  is formed from two parts  100   a ,  100   b  which each provide half of the central hub  110  and half of each of the two arms  120 ,  122 . Thus, a cable  50  can be laid into one of the two parts  100   a  or  100   b  and the wires  102 ,  104  can be placed with respect one half of each arm  120 ,  122  subsequently, the other part of the device  100  is attached securing the cable  50  within the central hub  110  and the wires  102 ,  104  within their respective arms  120 ,  122 . 
         [0123]    In addition, the inner wall  220  is formed from two parts  220   a ,  220   b  and advantageously, the two parts  220   a ,  220   b  of the inner wall  220  correspond to and align with the two parts  110   a ,  100   b  of the device  100 . Thus a first part  100   a  of the device  100  aligns with a first part  220   a  of the inner wall  220  and a second part  100   b  of the device aligns with a second part  220   b  of the inner wall  220 . This simplifies assembly of the parts that are housed within the inner wall  220 . For example parts such as the fan unit  70  may be placed within one of the two parts of the inner wall  220  when the cable  50  and wires  102 ,  104  are being placed into the corresponding one of the two parts of the device  100 . When all the parts are aligned correctly, the two parts of the inner wall  200  and the device  100  may be joined together to form an inner handle  26  of the hairdryer  10 . 
         [0124]    The two parts  220   a ,  220   b  of the inner wall  220  are each a half cylinder that together form a central tube or inner handle  26  of the handle  10 . In order that the two parts  100   a ,  100   b  of the device  100  align with or correspond to the half cylinders, the two parts  100   a ,  100   b  of the device  100  are also formed as equal halves and the two arms  120 ,  122  are formed diametrically spaced apart around the central hub  110 . 
         [0125]    The device  100  is formed so that each of the arms  120 ,  122  are substantially similar and could be used within the hairdryer  10  in either orientation that aligns with the two parts  220   a ,  220   b  of the inner wall  220 . 
         [0126]    The wires  102 ,  104  are housed within the arms  120 ,  122  which can be hollow shells but are alternatively solid with recesses adapted to accommodate a wire passing through the arm. Both recesses can be formed completely within one of the two parts  100   a ,  100   b  of the device, alternatively each of the two recesses can be split between the two parts  100   a ,  100   b  of the device  100 . 
         [0127]    The handle  20  has a fluid inlet  40  at one end  24  through which the cable  50  passes. As the cable  50  is located approximately centrally of the handle  20 , the central hub  110  of the device  100  is also located centrally or in the middle of the handle  20 . During use of the hairdryer  10 , fluid flows through the fluid inlet  40  passed the device  100  and into the fluid flow path  400  defined by the inner wall  220 . 
         [0128]    The arms  120 ,  122  of the device  100  extend across the fluid flow path  400 . To minimise any asymmetry in the flow the arms  120 ,  122  are symmetrical. To provide strength against tugging on the cable  50  the arms  120 ,  122  extend away from the fluid inlet  40  as the arms  120 , 122  move from the central hub  110  towards the inner wall  220 . In other words, the arms  120 ,  122  extend towards a fluid outlet  440  of the fluid flow path  400 . In addition, the arms  120 ,  122  are shaped to minimise flow disturbance. The arms  120 , 122  curve from a downstream end  124  to a maximum diameter and then taper towards an upstream end  126 . 
         [0129]    The arms  120 ,  122  have a tapered back face. The arms could alternatively be formed from an aerofoil cross-section. The skilled person will appreciated that the object is to minimise flow separation and/or the generation of turbulence. In this embodiment, the device  100  additionally has a structural function and has four radially spaced apart support struts  112 ,  114 ,  116 ,  118 . A pair of the support struts  114 ,  118  extends from the arms  120 ,  122  towards the fluid inlet  40 ; the other pair of support struts  112 ,  116  extends from the central hub  110  towards the outer wall  200  of the handle  20 . The outer wall  200  of the handle  20  is a thin sleeve which is supported by the inner wall  220  from the body  30  to the distal end  222  of the inner wall  220  however, as the inner wall  220  does not extend over the fluid inlet  40 , the outer wall  200  is unsupported along the length of the first set of apertures  42  that extend around and along the outer wall  200 . The four support struts  112 ,  114 ,  116 , 118  extend radially out from the central hub  110  of the device  100  to contact the outer wall  200  and extend longitudinally from the distal end  222  of the inner wall  220  towards the end  24  of the handle  20 . 
         [0130]    The support struts  112 ,  114 ,  116 ,  118  are plate like and have rounded ends  128  to reduce the amount of material within the support struts and so minimise blocking of the first apertures  42  of the fluid inlet  40 . The support struts  112 ,  114 ,  116 ,  118  increase the hoop strength of the handle  20  at and around the inlet  40  so if the hairdryer  10  is dropped, the support struts mitigate any damage that might occur. The support struts  112 ,  114 ,  116 ,  118  additionally protection the handle  20  from damage if the cable  50  is bent towards the handle  20 . 
         [0131]    In this example, the two parts  100   a ,  100   b  of the device  100  are secured together using a screw  108  which is inserted into screw hole  106 . This has two main functions; firstly it prevents the wires  102 ,  104  becoming misplaced during manufacture and subsequent use and potentially being nipped between parts of the arms  120 ,  122 ; and secondly it forms part of a strain relief for the cable  50 . 
         [0132]    The cable  50  has an overmould  52  which surrounds the cable  50  both external of the handle  20  and within the handle  20 . The central hub  110  of the device  100  includes an internal recess  54  which is adapted to accommodate the cable  50  and the over mould  52 . The internal recess  54  includes a number of lugs  56 ,  58 ,  60  which extend radially inwardly of the central hub  110  into the internal recess  54 . These lugs  56 ,  58 ,  60  engage with corresponding recesses  130  (See  FIG. 1 ) in the overmould  54 . When the two parts  100   a ,  100   b  of the device  100  are secured using a screw the overmould  54  and the cable  50  are securely attached within the handle  20  and if the cable  50  were tugged it is prevented from detaching from the handle  20 . 
         [0133]    The overmould  52  is formed of two parts a first part which is an internally located plastic overmould  52   a  and is positioned adjacent the end of the cable  50  where the wires  102 ,  104  protrude individually from the cable  50  and a rubber overmould  52   b  which extends over the plastic overmould  52   a  along the cable  50  external of the handle  20 . A cable tie  48  is used to secure the different parts of the overmould  52  together. 
         [0134]    Referring to  FIGS. 7   a ,  8   a ,  8   b ,  9   a  and  9   b  in particular, the inner wall  220  includes a pair of recesses  224 ,  226  which in this example are located one along each edge  228 ,  230  of the first part  220   a  of the inner wall  220 . The recesses  224 ,  226  house the wires  102 ,  104  that extend from the cable  50  to the PCB  75 . Thus, the wires  102 ,  104  are protected from being snagged or caught and are safely out of the fluid flow path  400  where they would cause some disruption to the flow of fluid. 
         [0135]    The cable  50  includes a live wire  104  and a neutral wire  102 . The neutral wire  102  passes from the device for distributing wires  100  and into one of the recesses  226  and live wire  104  also passes from the device for distributing wires  100  and into a second recess  224 . Within both recesses  224 ,  226  the wires  102 ,  104  from the cable are connected to the internal live wire  104 ′ and internal neutral wire  102 ′ of the appliance using spade connectors  236 ,  238 . 
         [0136]    The fan unit  70  is supported within the inner wall  220  by two annular seats which retain the motor longitudinally within the inner wall  220  and thus the handle  20 . A first annular seat  242  is provided adjacent the upstream end of the fan unit  70  and a second annular seat  244  is provided adjacent the downstream end of the fan unit  70 . The recesses  224 ,  226  could continue passed the fan unit  70 , however in this embodiment, the recesses  224 ,  226  are discontinued where they meet the first annular seat  242 . Both the internal neutral wire  102 ′ and the internal live wire  104 ′ are routed from their respective recesses  224 ,  226  radially around the inner wall  220   a  and then longitudinally along a pair of channels  240  formed within the inner wall  220   a . The pair of channels  240  extends through the first annular seat  242  along the inner wall  220   a  and through the second annular seat  244 . The pair of channels  240  is designed to receive the internal live wire  104 ′ and the internal neutral wire  102 ′ and hold those wires in place around the fan unit  70 . 
         [0137]    The downstream end  240   b  of the pair of channels  240  opens into a wire pocket  232  that extends from the second annular seat  244  to the electrical contacts  252  of the on/off switch  250 . The wire pocket  232  is designed to accommodate slack in the internal live wire  104 ′ and the internal neutral wire that results from construction of the appliance when the live wire  104  is connected to the internal live wire  104 ′ via the spade connector  236  and the neutral wire  102  is connected to the internal neutral wire  102 ′ via the spade connector  238 . 
         [0138]    The internal live wire  104 ′ is connected from the electrical contacts  252  of the on/off switch  250  to the heater  80  via safety switches and fuses (not shown) to the PCB and the internal neutral wire  102 ′ is directed connected to the PCB  75  to complete the circuit. The motor of the fan unit is electrically connected to the PCB  75  via wires  72 ,  74  ( FIG. 1 ;  FIG. 10   b ). 
         [0139]    Referring in particular to  FIGS. 8   a  to  11   b  the on/off switch  250  includes a button  64   a  which a user depresses to turn the hairdryer  10  on or off, electrical contacts  252  and a push rod  260  which physically connects the button  64   a  to the electrical contacts  252 . The push rod  260  has a first end  256  which engages with the user operable button  64   a  and a distal end  258  which engages with electrical contacts  252 . Thus when a user depresses the button  64   a , the push rod  260  is pushed against the electrical contacts  252  causing the hairdryer  10  to be turned on or off. The button  64   a  is mounted to the external surface  248  of the outer wall  200  of the handle  20 . The electrical contacts  252  are mounted diametrically opposite the button  64   a  on an internal surface  246  of the inner wall  220  of the handle  20 . The push rod  260  extends across the inside of the handle  20  and across the fluid flow path  400  that flows through the handle  20 . 
         [0140]    In order to maintain the relative locations of the push rod  260  and the electrical contacts  252 , a guide rod  270  is provided. The guide rod  270  has a first end  272  which is attached to the inner wall  220  and a second end  274  distal from the first end  272 . The push rod  260  is generally cylindrical and extends through an aperture  266  that extends through the guide rod  270 . 
         [0141]    The guide rod  270  surrounds or extends around the push rod  260 , supporting the push rod  260  and maintaining the location of the push rod  260  with respect to the button  64   a  and the electrical contacts  252 . The guide rod  270  is generally tear shaped having an upstream end  276  which is rounded and a downstream end  278  which is pointed. The resulting cross section has a circular upstream end and a triangular downstream end. 
         [0142]    A return spring  290  is provided between the electrical contacts  252  and the push rod  260  to give positive positioning of the button  64   a  denoting the on and off locations of the electrical contacts  252 . 
         [0143]    The fluid flow path  400  is non-linear, in the handle  20  the fluid flow path  400  flows in a first direction and in the body  30 , the fluid flow path  400  flows in a second direction. At the junction  90  between the handle  20  and the body  30 , a baffle  330  ( FIG. 10   a ) is provided; the baffle  330  has two main functions. A first function is to reduce noise and a second function is to provide a route for a digital connection from the PCB  75  to a second button  64   b  on the handle  20 . 
         [0144]    Fluid flows in the fluid flow path  400  along the inside of the handle  20  from the fluid inlet  40 . At the junction  90  between the handle  20  and the body  30  the fluid flow path  400  turns by around 90°. Due to the location of the PCB  75 , fluid flowing in the fluid flow path  400  would tend to interact with the PCB causing turbulence and noise. A baffle  330  is provided to at least partially block the fluid from dispersing towards the first end  32  and directly interacting with the PCB  75 . 
         [0145]    In addition, the PCB  75  is housed within space formed in the body  30  between the duct  310  and the outer wall  360  adjacent the first end  32  of the body  30 . The baffle  330  additionally at least partially blocks fluid flowing directly onto the PCB  75  from the handle  20 . 
         [0146]    The baffle  330  is arcuate and curves to mimic the curvature of the inner wall  220  of the handle  20  extending up from the switch  250  partially into the body  30 . The baffle  330 , in this embodiment has outer edges  330   a ,  330   b  which are approximately aligned to the longitudinal edges  286 ,  288  of the second part  220   b  of the inner wall  220 . The baffle  330  is formed from two parts a handle part  322  and a body part  362 . The handle part  332  is moulded with the second part  220   b  of the inner wall  220  and extends the second part  220   b  towards the body  30 . The body part  362  is moulded with the outer wall  360  of the body  30  and extends the baffle further into a space within the body  30 . 
         [0147]    The baffle  330  includes a slot  332  which is provided in the handle part  332  to route a digital connection in the form of a flexi extension  334  between the PCB  75  and button  64   b . Whereas the on/off button  64   a  is a part of an analogue switch, such a switch is unnecessary for button  64   b  which for example changes a control setting or provides a cool shot function. The flexi extension  334  connects to the PCB  75  at a first end  336 , folds around the junction  90  between the handle  20  and the body  30  on the fluid flow side of the baffle  330  thus the flexi extension  334  is within the fluid flow path  400 , then through the slot  332  formed in the handle part  322  of the baffle  330  to the button  64   b  towards a second end  338 . Between the slot  332  and the second end  338  of the flexi extension  334 , the flexi extension  334  lies between the inner wall  220  and the outer wall  200  of the handle  20 . 
         [0148]    Connection pips  328  are provided upstanding from the inner wall  220  to locate the flexi extension  332  towards the second end  338  around the button  64   b . A seal member  342  is provided between the button  64   b  and the flexi extension  334  to prevent any leakage of fluid from the fluid flow path  400  around the button  64   b.    
         [0149]    The button  64   b  has two parts, a first part  68  is a user pressed cap that protrudes slightly from the handle  20  and a second part  66  which includes an electrical contact  660 . When the first part  68  is pressed by a user, the second part  66  is pushed towards the flexi extension  334  and the electrical contact  660  that extends from the second part  66  makes an electrical connection with the flexi extension  334 . 
         [0150]    In order to provide additional support to the buttons  64   a ,  64   b  and their associated parts, a middle wall panel  160  is provided and it is located between the inner wall  220   b  and the outer wall  200  of the handle around the buttons  64   a ,  64   b . The middle wall panel  160  is adapted to retain the push rod  260  and the second part  66  of button  64   b  within the handle  20 . The middle wall panel  160  includes a first aperture  162  through which the first end  256  of the push rod  260  protrudes. A flange  256   a  extends around the first end  256  of the push rod  260  and the flange  256   a  has a larger diameter than the first aperture  162 . The flange  256   a  thus retains the push rod  260  within the middle wall panel  160 . 
         [0151]    The inner wall  220   b  includes an aperture  218  through which the distal end  258  of the push rod  260  can pass but not the first end  256 . When the button  64   a  is pushed, the first end  256  of the push rod  260  is pushed radially inwards but the extent of the radial movement is limited by the aperture  218  in the inner wall  220   b . The aperture  218  and the flange  256   a  prevent the first end  256  from moving radially beyond a predetermined amount. This provides protection against excessive force being applied to the electrical contacts and provides support for the push rod  260 . 
         [0152]    The middle wall panel  160  has a second aperture  164  through which the second part  66  of the button  64   b  protrudes. The second part  66  of the button  64   b  also has a flange  66   a  that extends around the second part  66  and has a larger diameter than the second aperture  164  thus retaining the second part  66  of the button  64   b  in position between the middle wall panel  160  and the flexi extension  334 . The inner wall  220   b  retains the flexi extension  334  in position by location pips  328 . 
         [0153]    The arms  120 ,  122  of the device  100  and/or the recesses  226 ,  228  preferably encapsulate their respective contained wires to electrically isolate them from the fluid flow path. 
         [0154]    The outer wall  360  of the body  30  and the inner wall  220  of the handle  20  are preferably moulded from a plastic material. Suitable plastic materials include polycarbonate, glass-filled PPA (Polyphthalamide), PPS (Polyphenylene Sulphide), LCAP (Liquid Crystal Aromatic Polymer) or PEEK (Polyether ether ketone) and the skilled person will appreciate that this list is not exhaustive and that other materials could be used with alternative manufacturing methods. The outer wall  200  of the handle  20  can be made from any of a number of suitable materials but is preferably made from aluminium, an alloy of aluminium a steel or a stainless steel. 
         [0155]    The device  100  and the inner wall  200  of the handle  20  may be moulded integrally. The outer wall  360  of the body  30 , the first part  220   a  of the inner wall and the first part  100   a  of the device are preferably moulded as a first piece with the second part  220   b  of the inner wall  200  and the second part  100   b  of the device  100  being preferably moulded as a second piece of the appliance. The baffle  330  need not be moulded as two parts; alternatively it is moulded integrally with either the first or the second piece of the appliance. 
         [0156]    In the embodiments described, the motor and fan were located within the handle of the appliance, this is not essential. The duct  300  need not provide a further fluid flow path, the cone portion  350  could extend across the whole of the area described by the outer wall  360  and the duct  300  could be used to house a fan unit. 
         [0157]    The invention has been described in detail with respect to a hairdryer however, it is applicable to any appliance that draws in a fluid and directs the outflow of that fluid from the appliance. 
         [0158]    The appliance can be used with or without a heater; the action of the outflow of fluid at high velocity has a drying effect. 
         [0159]    The fluid that flows through the appliance is generally air, but may be a different combination of gases or gas and can include additives to improve performance of the appliance or the impact the appliance has on an object the output is directed at for example, hair and the styling of that hair. 
         [0160]    The invention is not limited to the detailed description given above. Variations will be apparent to the person skilled in the art.