CN110663241A - Cosmetic device system with communication and power interface for cosmetic device - Google Patents

Abstract

A personal beauty appliance system comprising a personal beauty appliance including a main unit physically configured to couple with a detachable unit having a cosmetic applicator configured to perform a cosmetic treatment on a body part of a user and a detachable unit communication interface, the main unit comprising a main unit communication interface having circuitry configured to: communicatively coupled to the detachable unit communication interface to transmit and receive information with a detachable unit and communicatively coupling at least one of the detachable unit communication interface and a main unit communication interface to a client device associated with a personal cosmetic appliance.

Description

Cosmetic device system with communication and power interface for cosmetic device

Cross reference to related applications

This application claims priority from each of the U.S. non-provisional applications with application numbers 15/476,037 and 15/476,151, all filed on 31/3/2017, the entire contents of each of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference.

Technical Field

The present disclosure describes a cosmetic device system having the following interfaces: the interface provides a connection for communication and power between the master and slave cosmetic devices.

Disclosure of Invention

In an embodiment, there is provided a personal beauty appliance, including: a detachable unit comprising a cosmetic applicator configured to perform a cosmetic treatment on a body part of a user and an applicator communication interface, and a main unit comprising a main unit communication interface configured to physically and communicatively couple with the applicator communication interface and to transmit data to or receive data from the detachable unit.

In an embodiment, the primary unit is configured to transmit power to one or more components associated with the detachable unit.

In an embodiment, the primary unit is configured to transmit sensor information to or receive sensor information from the detachable unit.

In an embodiment, the primary unit comprises at least one of: a receiver component, a transceiver component, and a transmitter component operable to communicate with a client and exchange information with a client device.

In an embodiment, the primary unit comprises circuitry configured to actuate a discovery protocol: the discovery protocol allows the primary or removable unit and a remote enterprise to identify each other and negotiate one or more pre-shared keys.

In an embodiment, the primary unit comprises circuitry configured to actuate a discovery protocol: the discovery protocol allows the primary or removable unit and a remote network to exchange encrypted and anonymous information.

In an embodiment, the primary unit comprises circuitry configured to actuate a discovery protocol: the discovery protocol allows the main or removable unit and a remote network to exchange treatment protocol information.

In an embodiment, the main unit comprises a motor that drives the cosmetic applicator in repetitive movement relative to the main unit, and both the detachable unit communication interface and the main unit communication interface are arranged on an element that is driven by the motor in repetitive movement.

In an embodiment, the primary unit communication interface is at least one electrically conductive pin and the detachable unit communication interface is at least one electrically conductive socket configured to receive the at least one electrically conductive pin.

In an embodiment, the main unit communication interface and the detachable unit communication interface are magnets.

In an embodiment, the magnet of at least one of the primary unit communication interface and the detachable unit communication interface is configured to be movable and to remain in the first position when no magnetic force is applied thereto and to extend to the second position to contact the magnet of the other communication interface when a magnetic force is applied thereto.

In an embodiment, there is provided a personal cosmetic applicator comprising: a detachable unit comprising a cosmetic applicator configured to perform a cosmetic treatment on a body part of a user, the detachable unit comprising a coupling structure for physically coupling the detachable unit to a personal cosmetic appliance; and a detachable unit communication interface comprising circuitry configured to communicatively couple with the personal cosmetic appliance and to exchange data and power with the personal cosmetic appliance.

In an embodiment, the removable unit communication interface includes circuitry configured to establish a security protocol: the security protocol allows the personal cosmetic applicator and the client device to identify each other and establish secure communications.

In an embodiment, the removable unit communication interface includes circuitry configured to exchange encrypted and anonymous information with a remote network.

In an embodiment, the removable unit communication interface includes circuitry configured to exchange control commands with a remote network.

In an embodiment, there is provided a personal beauty appliance system, including: a personal cosmetic appliance comprising a main unit physically configured to couple with a detachable unit having a cosmetic applicator configured to perform a cosmetic treatment on a body part of a user and a detachable unit communication interface, the main unit comprising a main unit communication interface having circuitry to: the circuitry is configured to communicatively couple to the detachable unit communication interface to transmit and receive information with a detachable unit and to communicatively couple at least one of the detachable unit communication interface and a main unit communication interface to a client device associated with a personal cosmetic appliance.

In an embodiment, the primary unit communication interface includes circuitry configured to establish a security protocol and exchange encrypted and anonymous information with a client device.

In an embodiment, the primary unit communication interface includes circuitry configured to exchange sensor information with a detachable unit.

In an embodiment, the circuitry of the main unit is configured to transmit the sensor information to the client device for display on the client device.

In an embodiment, the primary unit communication interface includes circuitry configured to exchange control information with a removable unit associated with the cosmetic applicator.

In an embodiment, the primary unit is configured to receive data from a client device and process the received data.

In an embodiment, the data received from the client device is command or control data for controlling the operation of the main unit of the personal cosmetic appliance.

In an embodiment, the primary unit is configured to receive data from the client device and to transmit data to the detachable unit via the primary unit communication interface for processing the data at the detachable unit.

In an embodiment, the data received from the client device is data for controlling the operation of a detachable unit of the personal cosmetic appliance.

In an embodiment, the detachable unit comprises at least one sensor, and the data received from the client device is used to control the sensor.

In an embodiment, the data received from the client device for controlling the sensor is triggered by sensor data previously transmitted from the detachable unit to the client device via the detachable unit communication interface.

In an embodiment, the removable unit comprises a memory and the data received from the client device is used to retrieve the data from the memory.

In an embodiment, the primary unit is communicatively coupled to a client device via a wireless connection.

In an embodiment, there is provided a method implemented by a personal beauty appliance system comprising a personal beauty appliance and a client device, wherein the personal beauty appliance comprises a main unit physically configured to be coupled with a detachable unit having a cosmetic applicator configured to perform a cosmetic treatment on a body part of a user and a detachable unit communication interface, the method comprising: communicatively coupled to the detachable unit communication interface by circuitry of the main unit to transmit and receive information with a detachable unit, and communicatively coupled to at least one of the detachable unit communication interface and the main unit communication interface by circuitry of the main unit to a client device associated with a personal cosmetic appliance.

In an embodiment, the method further comprises establishing a security protocol and exchanging encrypted and anonymous information with the client device.

In an embodiment, the method further comprises exchanging sensor information with the detachable unit.

In an embodiment, the circuitry of the main unit is configured to transmit the sensor information to the client device for display on the client device.

In an embodiment, the method further comprises exchanging control information with the detachable unit.

In an embodiment, the method further comprises receiving data from the client device and processing the received data.

In an embodiment, the method further comprises receiving data from the client device and transmitting data to the detachable unit via the primary unit communication interface for processing the data at the detachable unit.

Drawings

The patent or application file contains at least one drawing executed in color. Copies of this patent or patent application publication with color drawing(s) will be provided by the office upon request and payment of the necessary fee. A more complete appreciation of the embodiments and many of the attendant advantages thereof will be readily obtained as the same becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed description when considered in connection with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

fig. 1A-1B illustrate a personal beauty appliance and its components according to an embodiment.

Fig. 2A-2B illustrate details of a detachable unit of a personal beauty appliance according to an embodiment.

Fig. 3 shows details of a receiving unit in the main unit that receives the detachable unit according to an embodiment.

Fig. 4 shows a cross-section of the detachable unit in a state attached to the receiving unit according to an embodiment.

Fig. 5 shows the hardware components of the main units according to an embodiment.

6A-6B illustrate hardware components of a detachable unit according to an embodiment.

Fig. 7A shows a system 700 that includes the personal beauty appliance 100 as discussed above and a client device according to an embodiment.

Fig. 7B shows different examples of client devices according to embodiments.

Fig. 7C illustrates an example of a system for facilitating optimal performance of a personal beauty appliance, according to an embodiment.

Fig. 7D shows a connection patch (patch) between the client device and the detachable unit according to an embodiment.

Fig. 8 shows a method performed by the circuitry of the detachable unit according to an embodiment.

Fig. 9A-9B illustrate different methods performed by the circuitry of the main unit according to embodiments.

10A-10C illustrate a method performed between a client device and a primary unit, according to an embodiment.

11A and 11B illustrate an alternative connection mechanism between the detachable unit and the main unit that relies on a magnetic coupling mechanism, according to an embodiment.

Detailed Description

The present disclosure describes a system, apparatus, and method in which a communication interface is provided between a main unit of a personal cosmetic device and a detachable unit connected to the main unit for providing specific functionality.

Fig. 1A shows a personal beauty appliance 100 according to an embodiment. The device 100 includes a main unit 101 and a detachable unit 102. The personal beauty appliance 100 shown in fig. 1 is used to massage and/or clean the skin of a user by using a three-head massage applicator as shown on the detachable unit 102. The main unit provides power and control of the overall device including the detachable unit 102. Although this particular type of personal grooming device is shown in fig. 1A, the claims are not limited to this particular type of device and may be applicable to other types of personal grooming devices including a main unit and a detachable unit.

The main unit 101 accommodates the operation structure of the container 100. As shown in block diagram form in fig. 1B, the operating structure in one embodiment includes a motor assembly 112, a power storage source 116, such as a rechargeable battery, and a controller 150. The controller 150 includes a drive control device 152 and a communication portion 154. In an aspect, the controller 150 may be controlled by an on/off button 132, the on/off button 132 being configured and arranged to selectively connect power from the power storage source 116 to the motor assembly 112. The power storage source 116 may be charged by power delivered by a cable (not shown) connected to the appliance. In alternative embodiments, the power storage source 116 may be charged by any wireless means, including through a pLink charging system, an inductive Qi charging system, and an AirFuel. The wireless charging status may be shown as an indicator on the appliance or on the central device. Fig. 1B shows a high-level view of the components of the personal beauty appliance 100, and a more detailed hardware diagram of both the main unit and the detachable unit will be described below.

Fig. 1B shows that the appliance 100 further includes an alert portion, indicator or display 160 according to an example. The alert section may be configured to give an alert to the user based on any information related to the operation of the device, including data received from the detachable unit, as will be discussed in detail below. The alert may be an audio, visual alert, or a vibratory or tactile feedback. In an aspect, the indicator and/or display may be configured to communicate to a user, such as a routine regarding where and how to use the appliance 100 according to an example. In an aspect, the display may be a touch display and configured to receive input from a user. The functions of the display 160 may also be performed by an external client device having a display, such as a smartphone device. Such client devices are described in more detail below.

The motor assembly 112 in some embodiments includes an electric drive motor 113 that drives the detachable unit via a drive shaft or armature 114. The motor assembly 112 is configured to impart motion to the detachable unit when the detachable unit is mounted to the main unit. The motor assembly 112 may be configured to oscillate the detachable unit at sonic frequencies, which are typically in the range of 80-300Hz, to oscillate the brushhead 120 back and forth in a range or amplitude of 3-20 degrees.

Fig. 2A-2B show details of the detachable unit 102. Fig. 2A shows a cross-section of the detachable unit 102. Fig. 2B shows an exploded view of the detachable unit 102. The detachable unit 102 includes a skin contact portion 201 that is inserted over the cosmetic head portion 202. The cosmetic head portion is held in place by "sandwiching" applicator top housing 203 and bottom housing 205. An inertial mass 204 is added to the detachable unit to allow the motor assembly to drive the applicator assembly at a particular oscillation frequency. In addition, a stage 206 supports an electrical socket or pin connector 208 and is attached to the interface portion 205 via screws 207. The table 206 further includes a socket feature 210 by which the pin receivers are disposed. Also, the interface portion 205 includes a strut (leg) 209.

Fig. 3 shows details of the receiving unit 300 in the main unit that receives the detachable unit 102. The receiving unit 300 comprises a top support 301, said top support 301 comprising at least one opening through which a connection pin 302 is arranged. The top support is connected to the bottom support 303 with screws 304. The top and bottom supports are fitted on a motor hub 306, the motor hub 306 being attached to the main unit.

Fig. 4 shows a cross-section of the detachable unit in a state attached with the receiving unit 300. It can be seen that the legs 209 of the interface portion 205 of the detachable unit 102 rest the housing 306 of the receiving unit 300 on the stand. The top support 301 of the receiving unit receives the socket 210 of the table 206. Thus, the rotation or oscillation of the motor in the motor unit 305 is translated to the detachable unit via the coupling of the socket 210 and the table 206. In addition, the pins 302 engage with a pin connector/plug 208 embedded in the socket 210. Wires 401 may be attached to the pins 302 to connect the pins with processing circuitry and the power supply of the main unit 101. The wires are connected through the space 402 that exists between the pins of the receiving unit and the housing 306. The space 402 is configured to provide slack to the wire 401 while the pin oscillates (in an angular range of approximately 3-20 deg.) along with the components of the detachable unit as necessary. This is shown as a single pin interface, as understood in the art. However, the claimed invention is not limited to this particular type of interface, and it may also be a multi-pin interface.

The connection between the pins 302 and the pin connector 208 forms an electrical connection that allows data communication between the main unit 101 and the detachable unit 102. The type of communication protocol used to send and receive data over the interface between the pins 302 and the pin connector 208 is understood in the art and may be, for example, I C ("inter integrated circuit" protocol), SPI ("serial peripheral interface" protocol), or a single wire interface.

Fig. 5 and 6 show block diagrams of the hardware used in the main unit and the detachable unit, respectively.

Fig. 5 shows that the hardware of the main units may include a microcontroller/processor 501, a power source 502 and a memory 503. The processor 501 of the main unit is coupled to the above-mentioned pins 302, which pins 302 serve as an interface with the detachable unit. The main unit may further comprise an external communication interface 504 for communicating with a device or network external to the cosmetic appliance. The main unit may include an output indicator 505 for outputting signals or data for a user. The output indicator may be a light indicator, such as one or more LED indicator lights, it may be an audible indicator, and/or it may be a display screen with information. The user interface 506 is an area on the cosmetic appliance for the user to provide input. The user interface 506 may be in the form of input buttons or it may be a touch sensitive display screen.

In an example, the communication interface (I/F) 504 may include circuitry and hardware for communicating with a client device (described in more detail below). The communication interface 504 may include a network controller, such as BCM43342 Wi-Fi, frequency modulation, and bluetooth integrated chip from Broadcom, for interfacing with a network. The hardware for microcontroller/processor 501 may be designed for reduced size. For example, the processor 501 may be a CPU as understood in the art. For example, the processor may be APL0778 from Apple Inc., or may be other processor types as will be recognized by those of ordinary skill in the art. Alternatively, the CPU may be implemented as an FPGA, an ASIC, a PLD, an embedded processor, or using discrete logic circuitry, as will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art. Further, the CPU may be implemented as a plurality of processors that cooperatively function in parallel to execute the instructions of the inventive processes described above. The client device may also have similar circuitry and hardware as described above.

Fig. 6A shows that the hardware of the detachable unit includes a sensor or sensing circuit 601 and a memory 602. The sensing circuit 601 is coupled to the pin connector 208 described above, the pin connector 208 serving as an interface with the main unit. The sensing circuitry 601 may include an additional microprocessor (not shown) that pre-processes the data by storing, classifying, evaluating or analyzing the data, then sends the data via a connector to a primary unit, at which point the data may be further manipulated, then possibly sent to an application, cloud system, or other destination.

Fig. 6B illustrates how the hardware of the detachable unit may be arranged, with reference to the drawing of fig. 2A. In particular, sensing circuitry 601 and memory 602 may be disposed in cosmetic head portion 202 as integrated circuit components on a Printed Circuit Board (PCB), and the sensing circuitry may have a wired connection with pin connector 208 via wires 603.

It is apparent that both the pin 302 and the pin connector 208 are embedded on moving parts of the receiving unit and the detachable unit that oscillate together. This is advantageous because it allows the connections from the sensor all the way to the pins to be in the oscillating part of the composite structure. In this way, any slack necessary to allow connection between the fixed part of the structure and the oscillating part of the structure can be completely contained within the main unit of the appliance, which provides more flexibility in designing the detachable unit.

The memory used in the above hardware example may be of a type understood in the art. Non-limiting examples of memory include volatile memory (e.g., Random Access Memory (RAM), Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM), etc.), non-volatile memory (e.g., Read Only Memory (ROM), Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EEPROM), compact disc read only memory (CD-ROM), etc.), persistent memory, and so forth. Further non-limiting examples of memory include erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), flash memory, and the like.

The type of sensor or sensing circuit 601 used in the detachable unit will vary depending on the type of cosmetic appliance, and more particularly the type of detachable unit being used.

The example described above for the personal grooming device 100 shown in fig. 1 is for massaging and/or cleansing the skin of a user by using a three-headed massage applicator. Thus, the type of sensor and sensing circuitry may be of the type used to perform skin analysis of the skin of a user.

For example, one type of sensor is used to detect the moisture level of the user's skin. Such sensors may operate by passing a current through the skin of the user, which allows the sensor to measure the resistance/impedance of the skin of the user and assess the electrolyte concentration in the skin of the user.

Another type of sensor is used to detect pigmentation of the skin of the user. Such sensors may operate by using cross-polarized light, UV image capture, and the like.

Additional types of sensors can assess skin photodamage, pore size, sebum concentration, and potential environmental factors such as air pollution, UV levels.

Fig. 7A shows a system 700 that includes the personal beauty appliance 100 as discussed above and a client device 720. In an embodiment, the personal beauty appliance 100 communicates with the client device 720 using wireless signals 710. In an embodiment, the client device 720 is configured to operate a set of software applications or software modules for receiving communications from the personal beauty appliance 100 and sending communications to the personal beauty appliance 100. In an example, a software application may send a protocol or a target profile to the personal cosmetic appliance 100 and receive data from the personal cosmetic appliance 100 to track usage in real time.

Fig. 7B shows different examples of client devices 720, including a mobile device 722, a wearable electronic device 724, a television or magic mirror 726, a network router 728, and a personal computer 729.

The wireless signal 110 may be any suitable signal, such as an electromagnetic signal, including WiFi, bluetooth, near field, or any other signal, such as optical and acoustic. Each client device, including the appliance, may communicate with each other through an internet connection, via an 802.11 wireless connection with a wireless internet access point, or a physical connection with an internet access point, such as through an ethernet interface. Each connected device is capable of performing wireless communication with other devices, such as also through a bluetooth connection or other wireless means.

Fig. 7C is a diagram representing an example of a system 750 for facilitating optimal performance of the personal cosmetic appliance 100, according to one example. System 750 includes at least personal beauty appliance 100 and client device 720. Optionally, the system 750 may further include one or more external servers 742, the external servers 742 being implemented as part of a cloud computing environment and in communication with the system 750 over the internet. The one or more external servers 742 may store user data, products such as recipes, protocols and routines, courses, and other third party services according to examples.

The client device 720 is configured in one example to collect information about the user's use of the personal beauty appliance and provide output to the user. The operating system of the client device may have a user interface configured to perform a plurality of functions. In an aspect, the client device may communicate with a network and enable user interface access to the internet and the internet of things (IOT). As can be appreciated, the network may be a public network, such as the internet, or a private network, such as a LAN or WAN network, or any combination thereof, and may also include a PSTN or ISDN sub-network. The network may also be wired, such as an ethernet network, or may be wireless, such as a cellular network, including EDGE, 3G, and 4G wireless cellular systems. The wireless network may also be WiFi, bluetooth, or any other form of wireless communication known. In an example, the network may access the following servers: the server hosts media, protocols, products, personal accounts, stored usage data, and other data related to appliances, brushheads, and skin care.

The user interface may display a tutorial on how to use the personal cosmetic appliance. The client device may create and download a protocol for a schema or routine, which may be displayed on a user interface. The user interface may direct, track, and compare the tracked usage to the protocols, scenarios, and routines. The user interface may calculate a score based on the tracked usage. The user interface may store the score and the tracked usage of the personal cosmetic appliance in a memory of the client device. The user interface may be used to make purchases of any product related to the personal beauty appliance. For example, a personal beauty appliance may be used with a combination of styling products or chemical components for treating a user's skin or hair, and a client device may output recommendations for: the particular product to be used and in which step in the process they are to be used.

As an initial step, the client device may optionally collect information about the user's characteristics (such as skin tone, humidity level or pigmentation as analyzed by sensors on the detachable unit) and usage patterns. The client device may store the search results locally or may connect to an external system or server to access the database or search results.

The user may also access a tutorial for use in achieving a target face using the personal cosmetic appliance. The tutorial may be in text form, still image form, video form, or audio only form.

In addition to the use tutorials, the user may connect the client device 720 with the personal cosmetic appliance through a wireless connection (such as a bluetooth or Wi-Fi connection) to receive real-time feedback while using the personal cosmetic appliance, or to record the use of the personal cosmetic appliance for later reporting or feedback.

For example, a motion sensor on the personal beauty appliance may output a detected motion of the personal beauty appliance as feedback to the client device when the personal beauty appliance is in use. The client device is configured to compare the detected motion to predetermined motion data for providing real-time performance results or output instructions to the user for the user to make corrections.

The client device may also have camera functionality that may be used to provide input to the customer profile. For example, the camera may take an image of the user's skin to determine the state of the user's skin based on visual data, or make additional recommendations to the user based on characteristics of the skin.

The client device is configured to upload data about the user to an external system or server (such as a cloud-based system). Such data may include a user profile, an amount of use of the personal beauty appliance, and performance results when using the personal beauty appliance. The client device may also provide an option for keeping the user data anonymous.

The client device may use camera functionality to provide a sharing feature where a user may upload pictures taken before and/or after using the personal beauty appliance. The uploaded photographs may be used to receive feedback from a professional or other user in the skin (or hair) treatment industry. In embodiments, the uploaded photos may be uploaded directly to a social media platform.

Further, the circuitry of the main or removable unit of the personal cosmetic appliance 100 may be configured to actuate a discovery protocol that allows the main or removable unit and the remote enterprise to identify each other and negotiate one or more pre-shared keys, which further allows the main or removable unit and the remote network to exchange encrypted and anonymous information. The discovery protocol may furthermore allow the main or detachable unit and the remote network to exchange treatment protocol information, depending on the type of applicator comprised in the detachable unit.

Further, the circuitry of the detachable unit communication interface may be configured to exchange control commands with a remote network so that the remote device may externally control the operation of the detachable unit and the applicator. The circuitry of the detachable unit may be further configured to exchange diagnostic information with the client device or another remote device. A connection is depicted in fig. 7D by which a communication path 750 to and from the client device is passed directly through the main unit of the personal cosmetic appliance to the detachable unit via the communication interfaces of the main unit and the detachable unit. Such a connection allows the primary unit to avoid unnecessary processing of the received data in the event that the received data is marked to be passed on to the detachable unit. It also allows data or protocols between the client device and the detachable unit to be transparent to the main unit, which may allow a new or proprietary version of the detachable unit to be used even if the main unit does not recognize or have software to handle the particular type of data or protocol embedded in the payload of the data.

Fig. 8-10 show examples of various processes and algorithms that may be performed by different components in the system.

Fig. 8 shows a method performed by the circuitry of the detachable unit. In step 801, sensor circuitry receives data from a sensor. The data received from the sensors may be data according to any of the different types of sensors described above. The data received from the sensor may be stored in the memory of the detachable unit at step 802. In step 803, data is retrieved from memory and transferred to the main unit via the main unit interface (pin connector 208). Step 802 is optional and the sensor circuitry may transmit data directly to the primary unit via the primary unit interface upon receiving data from the sensor.

Fig. 9A and 9B show different methods performed by the circuitry of the main unit. Fig. 9A shows a method performed when data received from the detachable unit is to be transmitted to an external client device, and fig. 9B shows a method performed at the personal beauty appliance when the main unit is to directly output information to the user. In both steps 901a and 901b, the circuitry of the main unit (such as processor 501) receives data from the removable unit interface via pin 301. In both steps 902a and 902b, the circuit stores the data at the memory 503. In step 903a, the circuit transmits data to the client device via a communication interface, such as external communication I/F504. On the other hand, in step 903b, the circuitry controls the output of information directly to the user via the output indicator 505 and/or the user interface 506 based on the stored data.

Fig. 10A illustrates a method performed by circuitry of a client device, for example, when the primary unit transmits data to the client device according to the method of fig. 9A. At step 1001, the circuitry of the client device receives data from the personal beauty appliance, which may be through a wired or wireless communication interface of the client device having a communication connection with the personal beauty appliance, as described above. At step 1002, circuitry of a client device may store data in a memory of the client device. At step 1003, circuitry of the client device outputs information to a user via a display of the client device based on the stored data.

Fig. 10B illustrates additional processes performed by circuitry of the client device. At step 1004, the client device may receive input from a user or application. For example, the input from the user may be a command or control input regarding the operation of the personal cosmetic appliance 100. Alternatively, the input may be generated by an application on the client device, rather than the user. For example, commands and control commands may be generated and input by an application based on data sensed from sensors in a detachable unit of the personal cosmetic appliance. In step 1005, data (such as command and control data) is transmitted to the personal cosmetic appliance 100 based on input received from a user or application.

Fig. 10C shows a process performed by the main unit of the personal beauty appliance when data is received from the client device in step 1006. In step 1007, the primary unit determines whether the data is of a type intended to be processed by the primary unit and, if so, the data is processed by the primary unit at step 1008. For example, if the data is display data intended to be displayed as an alert on a personal cosmetic appliance, the main unit will process such data for output to, for example, the display device 160 described above. Alternatively, the data may be command or control data, such as a command for controlling the operation of a motor in the main unit, a command for switching off the personal cosmetic appliance, or a command for retrieving data stored on a memory of the main unit. Otherwise, the data is transferred to the detachable unit, where the circuitry of the detachable unit will process the data. For example, if the data is command or control data relating to a sensor on the detachable unit, the data may be processed to perform control or calibration of the sensor. Alternatively, the command or control data may be used to retrieve data stored in a memory of the detachable unit. This scenario is related to the depiction of fig. 7D discussed above.

Magnetic connector embodiments

In the above embodiment, the connection between the detachable unit and the main unit of the personal beauty appliance is achieved using the pin 302 that interfaces with the pin connector 208. However, any of these parts may degrade over time, which may result in a faulty connection if any of these elements become damaged or skewed. Thus, fig. 11A and 11B illustrate an alternative connection mechanism between the detachable unit and the main unit, which relies on a magnetic coupling mechanism.

Fig. 11A shows a cross-section of the detachable unit 1101 in a connected state with the receiving unit 1102 of the main unit, similar to fig. 4 above. Elements similar to those described in the above fig. 204 will not necessarily be described in detail with reference to fig. 11A. The detachable unit 1101 is shown with a counterweight 1103 and an interface portion 1105. The interface portion is shown with a socket 1106 through which a sleeve (sleeve) conductor 1107 is disposed. A top magnet 1108 is provided in the bushing conductor. The bottom portion of the sleeve conductor is configured to remain flush within the opening 1109 of the receptacle 1106 when the coil 1110 disposed between the sleeve conductor and the inner surface of the receptacle is at rest (rest).

The receiving unit 1102 in fig. 11A comprises a top support 1111, through which top support 1111A bottom magnet 1112 is arranged. The bottom magnet is coupled with a conductive element 1113, which conductive element 1113 is arranged against the inner surface of the top support 1111 and which is attached to a wire (not shown) connected to the processor of the main unit.

Fig. 11B shows that when the top magnet of the detachable unit and the bottom magnet of the receiving unit are brought into proximity with each other, the magnet of the detachable unit and the sleeve conductor are moved downward (as indicated by the arrows) by magnetic force, further through the opening 1109, to contact the bottom magnet. The contacts form an electrical connection.

Obviously, many modifications and variations of the present invention are possible in light of the above teachings. It is therefore to be understood that within the scope of the appended claims, the invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described herein.

Claims (36)

1. A personal beauty appliance comprising:

a detachable unit comprising a cosmetic applicator configured to perform a cosmetic treatment on a body part of a user and an applicator communication interface, an

A primary unit comprising a primary unit communication interface configured to physically and communicatively couple with an applicator communication interface and to transmit data to or receive data from the removable unit.

2. The personal cosmetic appliance of claim 1, wherein the primary unit is configured to deliver power to one or more components associated with the detachable unit.

3. The personal cosmetic appliance of claim 1, wherein the main unit is configured to transmit sensor information to or receive sensor information from the detachable unit.

4. The personal beauty appliance of claim 1, wherein the main unit comprises at least one of: a receiver component, a transceiver component, and a transmitter component operable to communicate with a client and exchange information with a client device.

5. The personal cosmetic appliance of claim 1, wherein the main unit comprises circuitry configured to actuate a discovery protocol: the discovery protocol allows the primary unit or the detachable unit and a remote enterprise to identify each other and negotiate one or more pre-shared keys.

6. The personal cosmetic appliance of claim 1, wherein the main unit comprises circuitry configured to actuate a discovery protocol: the discovery protocol allows the primary unit or the detachable unit and a remote network to exchange encrypted and anonymous information.

7. The personal cosmetic appliance of claim 1, wherein the main unit comprises circuitry configured to actuate a discovery protocol: the discovery protocol allows the primary unit or the detachable unit and a remote network to exchange treatment protocol information.

8. The personal cosmetic device of claim 1, wherein the main unit includes a motor that drives a cosmetic applicator in repetitive movement relative to the main unit, and both the detachable-unit communication interface and the main-unit communication interface are disposed on an element that is driven by the motor to make repetitive movement.

9. The personal cosmetic appliance of claim 1, wherein the primary unit communication interface is at least one electrically conductive pin and the detachable unit communication interface is at least one electrically conductive socket configured to receive the at least one electrically conductive pin.

10. The personal cosmetic device of claim 1, wherein the main unit communication interface and the detachable unit communication interface are magnets.

11. The personal cosmetic device of claim 10, wherein the magnet of at least one of the main unit communication interface and the detachable unit communication interface is configured to be movable and to remain in a first position when no magnetic force is applied thereto and to extend to a second position to contact the magnet of the other communication interface when a magnetic force is applied thereto.

12. A personal cosmetic applicator, comprising:

a detachable unit comprising a cosmetic applicator configured to perform a cosmetic treatment on a body part of a user, the detachable unit comprising:

a coupling structure for physically coupling the detachable unit to a personal cosmetic appliance; and

a detachable unit communication interface including circuitry configured to communicatively couple with a personal cosmetic appliance and to exchange data and power with the personal cosmetic appliance.

13. The personal cosmetic applicator of claim 12, wherein the removable unit communication interface comprises circuitry configured to establish a security protocol comprising: the security protocol allows the personal cosmetic applicator and the client device to identify each other and establish secure communications.

14. The personal cosmetic applicator of claim 12, wherein the removable unit communication interface comprises circuitry configured to exchange encrypted and anonymous information with a remote network.

15. The personal cosmetic applicator of claim 12, wherein the removable unit communication interface comprises circuitry configured to exchange control commands with a remote network.

16. The personal cosmetic applicator of claim 12, wherein the detachable unit communication interface comprises circuitry configured to exchange diagnostic information with a client device.

17. A personal beauty appliance system comprising:

a personal beauty appliance, comprising:

a main unit physically configured to couple with a detachable unit having a cosmetic applicator configured to perform cosmetic treatment on a body part of a user and a detachable unit communication interface, the main unit including a main unit communication interface having circuitry configured to:

communicatively coupled to the detachable unit communication interface to transmit and receive information with the detachable unit, and

communicatively coupling at least one of the detachable unit communication interface and the main unit communication interface to a client device associated with a personal beauty appliance.

18. The personal grooming system in accordance with claim 17, wherein the primary unit communication interface comprises circuitry configured to establish a secure protocol and exchange encrypted and anonymous information with a client device.

19. The personal grooming system according to claim 17, wherein the primary unit communication interface comprises circuitry configured to exchange sensor information with the detachable unit.

20. The personal grooming system according to claim 19, wherein the circuitry of the main unit is configured to transmit sensor information to a client device for display on the client device.

21. The personal grooming system of claim 17, wherein the primary unit communication interface comprises circuitry configured to exchange control information with a removable unit associated with the grooming applicator.

22. The personal grooming system according to claim 17, wherein the main unit is configured to receive data from a client device and process the received data.

23. The personal grooming system of claim 22, wherein the data received from the client device is command or control data for controlling operation of a main unit of the personal grooming appliance.

24. The personal grooming system according to claim 17, wherein the main unit is configured to receive data from a client device and transmit data to the detachable unit via the main unit communication interface for processing data at the detachable unit.

25. The personal cosmetic system of claim 24, wherein the data received from the client device is data for controlling operation of a detachable unit of the personal cosmetic appliance.

26. The personal grooming system in accordance with claim 24, wherein the detachable unit comprises at least one sensor and data received from a client device is used to control the sensor.

27. The personal grooming system in accordance with claim 26, wherein the data received from the client device for controlling the sensor is triggered by sensor data previously communicated from the detachable unit to the client device via the detachable unit communication interface.

28. The personal grooming system according to claim 24, wherein the removable unit comprises a memory and data received from the client device is used to retrieve data from the memory.

29. The personal grooming system of claim 17, wherein the main unit is communicatively coupled to a client device via a wireless connection.

30. A method implemented by a personal beauty appliance system comprising a personal beauty appliance and a client device, wherein the personal beauty appliance comprises a main unit physically configured to couple with a detachable unit having a cosmetic applicator configured to perform cosmetic treatment on a body part of a user and a detachable unit communication interface, the method comprising:

communicatively coupled to the detachable unit communication interface by circuitry of the main unit to transmit and receive information with the detachable unit, and

communicatively coupling at least one of the detachable unit communication interface and the main unit communication interface to a client device associated with a personal beauty appliance through circuitry of the main unit.

31. The method of claim 30, further comprising establishing a security protocol and exchanging encrypted and anonymous information with the client device.

32. The method of claim 30, further comprising exchanging sensor information with the detachable unit.

33. The method of claim 32, wherein the circuitry of the primary unit is configured to transmit sensor information to a client device for display on the client device.

34. The method of claim 30, further comprising exchanging control information with the removable unit.

35. The method of claim 30, further comprising receiving data from a client device and processing the received data.

36. The method of claim 30, further comprising receiving data from the client device and transmitting data to the detachable unit via the primary unit communication interface for processing the data at the detachable unit.

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