Dyson's new Supersonic hair dryer launched in Tokyo on April 27, Wednesday is an attempt to revolutionize the home appliance. The goal is to solve everyday problems caused by today's hairdryers including frizzy hair and burned scalps. British designer and engineer James Dyson hopes to grab market share in an big industry that includes three-quarters of women in the United States alone.
The hair-drying machines are even more popular in other countries. Dyson reports around 92 percent of British women, and 97 percent of women in Japan use them. Most people spend about 20 minutes for each tresses-drying session
The knighted British inventor explains that 103 engineers help to design the Supersonic model. That included trying to control over 1,000 miles of wild human hair and taking up the issues of noise, speed, and weight.
The Dyson company explains that a key part of the Supersonic is the ultra-fast 13-blade motor that is around the size of a quarter. This tiny motor fits in the hair dryer handle instead of at the top of the device, which gives the personal appliance its sleek look.
One big benefit of the motor's location is that it ends the problem of old-school top-heavy dryers that create a "dumbbell effect," and helps to keep the weight down to 370 grams (13 ounces). It also frees up space for a smaller fan and longer silencer tube, which makes Supersonic a quiet hair dryer.
Meanwhile, the unit is also "supersonic." Its new tech reportedly lets sound waves work at an ultra-sonic level that humans cannot hear. Dyson's new machine also includes smart heat sensors to avoid hair burn.
The company claims it invested $72.6 million to develop the new high-tech hair dryer, according to BBC.
Dyson is the Steve Jobs of home appliances and today's most famous British inventor, according to The New York Times. Some of his past inventions include bladeless fans, cordless vacuum cleaners, air purifiers, and home robots.
British retailer and furniture designer Terence Conran explains that Dyson has become a game-changer in the world of home appliances. One big example is the bagless vacuum cleaner that has become a high-class status symbol.