EP4725664A1

EP4725664A1 - Personal care system having lighting unit with controllable light control mode

Info

Publication number: EP4725664A1
Application number: EP24205805.5A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Ahmet Gözütok; Johannes Antonius Jansen; Jelle Meindert KRIJTHE
Original assignee: Koninklijke Philips NV
Current assignee: Koninklijke Philips NV
Priority date: 2024-10-10
Filing date: 2024-10-10
Publication date: 2026-04-15
Also published as: WO2026077740A1

Abstract

A personal care system and a method for controlling a lighting unit of a personal care device to provide contextual light-based functionality to a user of the personal care device. A light output of the lighting unit is adapted in accordance with which of a set of possible functional attachments a user has attached to the device.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a personal care system comprising a personal care device attachable to each of a set of different functional units, wherein the personal care device comprises a lighting unit and a controller configured for controlling a light output generated by the lighting unit.
The present invention further relates to a computer-implemented method for controlling a light output generated by a lighting unit of a personal care device of a personal care system having a set of different functional units selectively attachable to the personal care device.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

It is known to provide real-time guidance or feedback to a user of a personal care device. It is known to provide this feedback in relation to usage of a functional unit of the personal care device. Feedback can help guide a user in operating the device in a way that may achieve the best results.
For example, it is known to provide feedback to a user related to a pressure with which the device is being applied to skin. This helps the user avoid over-pressure and/or under-pressure. Another type of feedback is motion-related feedback, wherein a user is provided feedback related to a motion pattern with which the device is being moved. This helps the user to implement motion patterns for optimal functionality.
One newer class of personal care device includes a main body to which a plurality of different functional units are selectively attachable by a user for providing a range of different possible personal care functions. In this scenario, it is a challenge to provide feedback in a way that is always relevant, since any of a number of different functional units could be in operation at any given time.
Furthermore, there may be multiple different types of feedback that could be provided during use of any single functional unit. For example, when using a shaver unit, both pressure-related feedback and motion-related feedback could be provided.
Furthermore, there are some functional units which require no feedback at all, and wherein the provision of feedback would create confusion for the user.
Providing a user feedback mechanism that is operable to manage provision to the user of the various different types of feedback in a way that can be read and understood while the user is operating the device is a challenge. For example, when operating the device, the user may typically be looking into a mirror to monitor their use of the device. In this context, a user interface which relies on a user looking continuously at a screen or other user output device is not appropriate.
It is known to use a lighting unit having a light output surface on the body of the personal care device to provide pressure-related feedback. The light output from the lighting unit can be seen by the user in the mirror or in their peripheral vision while using the device.
However, in view of the variable functionality of the newer class of personal care device, if using a lighting unit, it is a challenge to control the lighting unit to provide a light output which is at all times relevant and useful to the user.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The invention is defined by the claims.
According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a personal care system, comprising: a set of different functional units each having a movable functional component; a personal care device having: a main body, a motor accommodated in the main body, and a connection interface arranged on the main body and adapted to enable connection of any selected one of the set of different functional units to the main body so as to enable driving of the movable functional component of the selected one of the set of different functional units by the motor; wherein the main body accommodates a lighting unit having a light emitting surface and including at least one light source; a functional unit recognition subsystem configured to differentially identify, among the set of different functional units, the selected one of the set of different functional units which is connected to the connection interface and generate an output associated with the identified selected one of the set of different functional units; and a controller configured for controlling a light output generated by the lighting unit in accordance with any selected one of a set of different light control modes; wherein the controller is adapted to determine a selected one of the set of different light control modes, in accordance with which to control the light output of the lighting unit, in dependence upon the output of the functional unit recognition subsystem.
It is thus proposed in accordance with the invention to provide a light output mechanism which comprises a lighting unit, and wherein the light output behavior of the lighting unit is adapted in dependence upon the functional unit which is attached to the device. In this way, light-based functionality is adapted dynamically in dependence upon how the device is being used at any given time. In this way, contextual light output is provided to the user. By way of example, in some embodiments, the light output mode can be varied in dependence upon the functional unit which is being used so as to provide real-time feedback to the user which is most relevant to use. At the same time, the lighting unit can also be controlled, in accordance with one or more of the light control modes, to provide other types of light-based functionality which are relevant to use, such as illumination light when using one or more of the set of different functional units.
In at least a subset of the different light control modes, the controller is configured to control the light output in dependence upon a pre-defined functional parameter or condition or state of the system. For example, the controller is configured to control the light output so as to provide real-time feedback with regards to a functional parameter or condition or state of the system.
In some embodiments, the personal care system includes a pressure sensing subsystem configured for sensing an external pressure exerted at an operational face of at least one functional unit of the set of different functional units when said functional unit is connected to the connection interface. The pressure sensing subsystem may be configured to generate an output signal indicative of said external pressure.
The set of different light control modes may include a pressure-related light control mode, wherein the light output of the lighting unit is controlled in dependence upon said output signal generated by the pressure sensing subsystem.
For example, the at least one functional unit in this case may be a shaving unit having a set of one or more shaving heads for contacting skin to cut hair and wherein the pressure sensing subsystem is arranged to sense pressure exerted on the shaving heads in a direction along a main axis of extension of the main body.
In some embodiments, the personal care system includes a motion sensing subsystem configured for sensing at least one characteristic of movement of the personal care device relative to a user's skin during operation. The motion sensing subsystem may be configured to generate an output signal indicative of said characteristic of the movement of the personal care device.
The set of different light control modes may include a motion-related light control mode, wherein the light output of the lighting unit is controlled in dependence upon said output signal generated by the motion sensing subsystem.
Accordingly, feedback may be provided to the user related to movement behaviour of the device by the user.
In some embodiments, the personal care system may include both the pressure sensing subsystem and the motion sensing subsystem. The set of different light control modes may include a combined light control mode, wherein the light output of the lighting unit is controlled in dependence upon both the output signal generated by the pressure sensing subsystem and the output signal generated by the motion sensing subsystem.
The output signal of the pressure sensing subsystem may represent a measured value of the external pressure. In accordance with said combined light control mode, control of the light output may be differently performed depending upon whether the measured value of the external pressure is above or below a threshold. In some embodiments, if the measured value of the external pressure is below a predefined threshold value, the light output of the lighting unit is controlled in dependence upon the output signal generated by the motion sensing subsystem, and when the measured value of the external pressure is above the predefined threshold value, the light output of the lighting unit is controlled in dependence upon the output signal of the pressure sensing subsystem.
In other words, when the device is being applied to skin with low pressure (e.g. corresponding to acceptable pressure), the lighting unit is used to provide feedback relating to motion of the device, and when the device is being applied to skin with higher pressure (e.g. corresponding to potentially excessive pressure), the lighting unit is used to provide feedback in relation to pressure.
In some embodiments, the set of different light control modes includes all three of: the pressure-related light control mode, according to which the light output of the lighting unit is controlled in dependence upon said output signal generated by the pressure sensing subsystem; the motion-related light control mode, according to which the light output of the lighting unit is controlled in dependence upon said output signal generated by the motion sensing subsystem; and the combined light control mode outlined above. The controller may be selectively operable in each of the pressure-related light control mode, the motion-related light control mode, and the combined light control mode.
In some embodiments, the personal care system further comprises a user interface. The user interface may be configured for receiving a user input command. The controller may be configured, for at least one of the set of different functional units when being identified as the selected one of the set of different functional units which is connected to the connection interface, to determine a subset of at least two different light control modes from the set of different light control modes; and enable a user of the personal care system to select a desired one of the subset of at least two different light control modes by means of the user interface. The controller may be further configured to receive an output signal from the user interface indicative of the selected one of the subset of at least two different light control modes selected by the user; and control the light output generated by the lighting unit in accordance with the selected one of the subset of at least two different light control modes selected by the user.
In other words, for at least one of the set of different possible functional units, the user is able to select between at least two different light control modes to thereby selectively configure the light-based functionality that is provided, e.g. choosing for the light to provide pressure feedback or motion feedback or both.
In some embodiments, the set of different light control modes may include a skin-illuminating light control mode, wherein the light output of the lighting unit is controlled to be generated with predefined non-varying light output characteristics configured for illuminating an area of skin being acted upon by the selected one of the set of different functional units which is connected to the main body. The light output in this case provides illumination light for improving visibility of the area of skin being addressed with the device.
With regards to the lighting unit, in some embodiments, this may have an annular form. The main body of the personal care device may have a main axis of extension and a light emitting surface of the lighting unit may extend around the main axis of extension.
In some embodiments, the light emitting surface of the lighting unit extends circumferentially around the main body, about the main axis of extension. The light emitting surface may extend in a loop, but this is not essential. The loop may be a closed loop, but this is not essential.
The lighting unit may comprise a plurality of light sources which are each arranged to emit light via a respective one of a plurality of different portions of the light emitting surface of the lighting unit.
In some embodiments, in accordance with the skin-illuminating light control mode outlined previously, the plurality of light sources may be controlled such that the lighting unit emits light via a first subset of the plurality of different portions of the closed-loop light emitting surface which are facing, during operation, an area of the user's skin being acted upon by the selected one of the set of different functional units which is connected to the main body, and the lighting unit does not emit light via a second subset of the plurality of different portions of the closed-loop light emitting surface which are facing away, during operation, from said area of the user's skin. For example, the lighting unit may be controlled so that only half of the light ring or less is illuminated. This conserves energy by only activating the light sources which are facing toward the skin. This also helps avoid dazzling or distracting the user with light emitted from the side of the main unit which is facing toward their eyes.
In some embodiments, the set of different functional units includes at least three different functional units, the at least three different functional units including at least a beard styler and a precision hair trimmer. The controller may be configured to control the light output generated by the lighting unit in accordance with the skin-illuminating light control mode when the output generated by the functional unit recognition subsystem is associated with either the beard styler or the precision hair trimmer.
In some embodiments, the controller includes a timer module for counting a total elapsed time of a current operation session of the selected one of the set of different functional units which is connected to the main body. The set of different light control modes may include a time-related light control mode, wherein the light output of the lighting unit is controlled in dependence upon the total elapsed time of the current operation session counted by the timer module.
In other words, in this light control mode the lighting unit is used to provide timing feedback. This may be useful for functional units which are time sensitive. For example, when using a facial cleansing brush, a use time longer than a certain duration can lead to skin inflammation.
In some embodiments, the controller may be arranged in the main body of the personal care device. In some embodiments, the functional unit recognition subsystem is arranged in the main body of the personal care device.
In some embodiments, the set of different functional units comprises a selection of any two or more of: a shaving unit, a precision hair trimmer, a facial brushing unit, a beard styler, and a nose trimmer.
In some embodiments, the set of different functional units comprises all five of: a shaving unit, a precision hair trimmer, a facial brushing unit, a beard styler, and a nose trimmer.
Another aspect of the invention is a computer-implemented method for controlling a light output generated by a lighting unit of a personal care device of a personal care system, the personal care system further comprising a set of different functional units each having a movable functional component, and the personal care device having: a main body; a motor accommodated in the main body; and a connection interface arranged on the main body and adapted to enable connection of any selected one of the set of different functional units to the main body so as to enable driving of the movable functional component of the selected one of the set of different functional units by the motor, wherein the main body accommodates the lighting unit and the lighting unit has a light emitting surface and at least one light source, wherein the method comprises differentially identifying, among the set of different functional units, a selected one of the set of different functional units which is connected to the connection interface, determining a selected one of a set of different light control modes in dependence upon the identified selected one of the set of different functional units which is connected to the connection interface, and controlling the light output generated by the lighting unit in accordance with the selected one of the set of different light control modes.
A further aspect of the invention is a computer program product comprising instructions which, when the program is executed by a computer, cause the computer to carry out a method in accordance with any embodiment or example described in this disclosure or in accordance with any claim.
These and other aspects of the invention will be apparent from and elucidated with reference to the embodiment(s) described hereinafter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a better understanding of the invention, and to show more clearly how it may be carried into effect, reference will now be made, by way of example only, to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Fig. 1 is a schematic block diagram illustrating components of an example personal care system in accordance with one or more embodiments of the invention;
Fig. 2 is a flow diagram schematically illustrating an embodiment of a method in accordance with the invention implemented by a controller of a personal care system in accordance with one or more embodiments of the invention;
Fig. 3 shows a representation of an example personal care device main body and a set of functional units attachable to the main body;
Fig. 4 shows a geometry of an example light emitting surface of a lighting unit comprised by the personal care device according to one or more embodiments of the invention;
Fig. 5 shows a schematic representation of an example lighting unit in accordance with one or more embodiments of the invention;
Fig. 6 shows a perspective view of an exterior of an example implementation of the personal care device in accordance with one or more embodiments, wherein a functional unit is attached to the main body, wherein the functional unit is a shaving unit;
Fig. 7 shows a perspective view of the exterior of the same personal care device illustrated in Fig. 6 wherein no functional unit is attached to the main body;
Fig. 8 is a schematic block diagram illustrating components of an example implementation of a personal care device in accordance with one or more embodiments of the invention, wherein the personal care device comprises a pressure sensing subsystem and a motion sensing subsystem;
Fig. 9 schematically illustrates the processing flow of a pressure-related light control mode in accordance with one or more embodiments of the invention;
Fig. 10 schematically illustrates the processing flow of a motion-related light control mode in accordance with one or more embodiments of the invention;
Fig. 11 schematically illustrates a processing flow of a combined light control mode in accordance with one or more embodiments of the invention;
Fig. 12 schematically illustrates a skin-illuminating light control mode in accordance with one or more embodiments of the invention;
Fig. 13 schematically illustrates a time-related light control mode in accordance with one or more embodiments of the invention;
Fig. 14 schematically illustrates an embodiment of a method in accordance with the invention in which a selection of a light control mode is performed partly in dependence upon a selection input provided by a user at a user interface; and
Fig. 15 schematically illustrates a method in accordance a preferred embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

The invention will be described with reference to the Figures.
It should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating exemplary embodiments of the apparatus, systems and methods, are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the apparatus, systems and methods of the present invention will become better understood from the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the Figures are merely schematic and are not drawn to scale. It should also be understood that the same reference numerals are used throughout the Figures to indicate the same or similar parts.
The invention provides a personal care system and a method for providing contextual light-based functionality to a user of a personal care device. It is proposed to adapt the light output of a lighting unit in accordance with which of a set of possible functional attachments a user has attached to the device.
The invention relates to control of a lighting unit of a personal care device. One aspect of the invention is a personal care system comprising the personal care device and comprising a set of functional units attachable to the personal care device. Another aspect of the invention is a method of controlling the lighting unit.
Starting with the personal care system, Fig. 1 outlines in block diagram form the components of an example personal care system 10 in accordance with at least one set of embodiments of the invention.
The personal care system 10 comprises a personal care device 12. The personal care device comprises a main body 14. The personal care device further comprises a connection interface 16 arranged on the main body. The personal care device may further comprise a motor 18 accommodated in the main body 14.
The connection interface 16 is adapted to enable connection of any selected one of a set of different functional units to the main body 14. An exemplary set 20 of functional units is schematically represented in Fig. 1. The exemplary set 20 of functional units includes a first functional unit 22_1, a second functional unit 22_2, a third functional unit 22_3, a fourth functional unit 22_4 and a fifth functional unit 22_5. The functional units may be referred to generically in this disclosure by the reference numeral 22_n.
Each one 22_n of the set 20 of different functional units includes a moveable functional component. The moveable functional component is for example for enabling a functional action of the functional unit 22_n. The functional action is for example an action contributing to a personal care function. Each of the different functional units may be for use in performing a different personal care function.
The connection interface 16 is adapted to enable connection of any selected one of the set 20 of different functional units 22_n to the main body 14 so as to enable driving of the movable functional component of the selected one of the set of different functional units by the motor 18 accommodated in the main body 14. The connection interface is for example a mechanical connection interface. The connection interface may optionally additionally be an electrical connection interface.
The personal care device 12 further comprises a lighting unit 32. The lighting unit 32 comprises a light emitting surface 34. The light emitting surface 34 is arranged to be optically exposed at an exterior surface of the main body 14 of the device. The lighting unit 32 comprises at least one light source, for example at least one LED element. The at least one light source is configured to generate a light output 33. The light emitting surface 34 is arranged to transmit the light output 33 such that the light output 33 is visible from an exterior of the personal care device 12. The positioning and structure of the lighting unit 32 represented in Fig. 1 is schematic only.
The system 10 further comprises a controller 42 for controlling the light output generated by the lighting unit 32.
A color of the light output 33 of the lighting unit 32 is configurable. For example, a color of the light output 33 of the lighting unit 32 may be controllable to selectively change between at least: green, blue, purple, red, and white.
In some embodiments, a spatial patterning of the light output 33 may be configurable. For example a shape or pattern of the light output may be configurable.
In some embodiments, a proportion of the light emitting surface 34 which is illuminated by the light output 33 may be configurable. In some embodiments, an intensity of the light output 33 may be configurable. In some embodiments, the lighting unit 32 comprises a plurality of light sources and wherein the light sources are individually addressable, and wherein a selection of the light sources which are activated and a selection which are deactivated is controlled by the controller 42 to control a pattern, shape or extent of the light output 33 which is generated.
The personal care device 12 further comprises a functional unit recognition subsystem 36 which is configured to differentially identify, among the set 20 of different functional units 22_n, the selected one of the set of different functional units which is connected to the connection interface 16 and generate an output 37 associated with the identified selected one of the set of different functional units.
The controller 42 is arranged communicatively coupled with the functional unit recognition subsystem 36 for receiving the output 37 generated by the functional unit recognition subsystem. The controller 42 is arranged operatively coupled with the lighting unit 32 for controlling the light output 33 generated by the lighting unit 32.
With reference to Fig. 2, the controller 42 is operable to control the light output 33 generated by the lighting unit 32 in accordance with different possible light control modes 62_n. For example, the controller 42 is configured to control a light output 33 generated by the lighting unit 32 in accordance with any selected one of a set 60 of different possible light control modes 62_n. The controller may be configured to select between the different possible light control modes.
As schematically represented in Fig. 2, there may be a pre-defined set 60 of A possible light control modes 62_1,... ,62_N. A single light control mode may be referred to generically in this disclosure by the reference numeral 62_n.
Each light control mode 62_n may be associated with a respective light control program. Each light control mode 62_n may be associated with a respective light control algorithm.
With reference to Fig. 2, in embodiments of the present invention, the controller 42 is configured to select 72 or determine one of the set 60 of different light control modes 62_n in accordance with which to control 74 the light output 33 of the lighting unit 32 in dependence upon the output 37 of the functional unit recognition subsystem 36.
In other words, the controller 42 is configured to select 72 one of the set 60 of different possible light control modes 62_n in dependence upon which selected one of the set 20 of different functional units 22_n is connected to the connection interface 16, and to control 74 the light output 33 of the lighting unit 32 in accordance with the selected light control mode 62_n.
In some embodiments, the controller 42 is configured to select 72 one of the set 60 of possible light control modes 62_n based on a light control logic, and wherein an output from the functional unit recognition subsystem 32 is fed as an input to at least one decision step or node of the light control logic.
It is noted that, in the illustrated example of Fig. 1, the controller 42 is shown as integrated within the main body 14 of the personal care device 12. However, the controller 42 may be separate to the personal care device. For example, the controller may be a controller integrated in a mobile computing device such as a smartphone. The personal care device may comprise a communication interface to which the functional unit recognition subsystem 36 and the lighting unit 32 are operatively connected, and wherein the separate controller 42 is communicatively coupled, e.g. wirelessly, with the communication interface.
In the illustrated example of Fig. 1, the controller 42 is shown as additionally operatively coupled with the motor 18 for controlling an operation of the motor 18, but this is not essential. A separate controller may be included in the personal care device for controlling the motor 18.
The set 20 of different functional units 22_n may be included as a part of the provided system 10. Alternatively, they may be separate to the system, and wherein the personal care device 12 is operable to connect with them.
In some embodiments, the system 10 may comprise or may be associated with a mobile computing device (not shown). The mobile computing device may for example be a smartphone. The mobile computing device may include a software application installed thereon, the software application for providing a user interface for the personal care system. For example, the software application may provide feedback to the user with regards to previous usage of the personal care device 12. In some embodiments, the software application may permit a user to configure one or more settings of the personal care device. In some embodiments, the software application may permit a user to configure one or more settings of a light control functionality performed by the controller 42. In some embodiments, the software application may permit a user to configure which of the set of possible light control modes 62_n the controller should select dependent upon the functional unit recognition subsystem 36 detecting a given one of the set of different functional units 22_n.
With regards to the set 20 of different functional units 22_n, it will be appreciated that the principles of the invention are applicable to any possible set of functional units. All that is required is a personal care device 12 which is configurable to be used with a plurality of different functional units, wherein the system permits the user to switch the functional unit by mechanically detaching one and mechanically attaching another.
With regards to the functional unit recognition subsystem 36, this is schematically represented as a single element in Fig. 1, but it may comprise a plurality of elements which together perform the functional unit recognition function. The functional unit recognition subsystem may be wholly or partially integrated in the personal care device 12, e.g. in the main body 14 of the personal care device, or could be located externally to the personal care device. For example, at least a processing portion of the functional unit recognition subsystem could be integrated in a personal computing device such as a smartphone, or in a cloud computing environment.
One example means for differentially detecting which of a set of different functional units is connected to a main body of a personal care device is described in document EP3855976B1 .
Fig. 3 shows a representation of one example personal care device 12 and pictorial representations of one example set of functional units 22_n. The personal care device 12 main body 14 is shown. The main body 14 has a main axis of extension 15. The representation of Fig. 3 shows an exterior view of the main body 14. The connection interface 16 for connecting with the functional units is further shown. Also shown is an optional display 52 for displaying functional information to a user.
The example of Fig. 3 includes a lighting unit 32 which comprises an annularly shaped light emitting surface 34 which extends around a complete circumference of a neck of the main body 14. The light emitting surface 34 of the lighting unit 32 extends circumferentially around the main body 14 as a closed-loop light emitting surface about the main axis of extension 15.
The lighting unit 32 is controllable to vary an angular portion of the light emitting surface 34 which is illuminated at any given time. A color of the light output is also controllable.
The example set of functional units represented in Fig. 3 includes a shaving unit 22_1, precision trimmer 22_2, nose trimmer 22_3, facial cleansing brush 22_4, and beard styler 22_5. Each of the functional units 22_n is attachable to the main body of the 14 of the personal care device 12 by connection with the connection interface 16. Each of the functional units includes a moveable functional component.
In some embodiments, the set 20 of different functional units 22_n may include a selection of any two or more of the above listed set of functional units. In a preferred implementation of the system, the set of different functional units includes all five of the above listed set of functional units.
With regards to the lighting unit 32, Fig. 4 and Fig. 5 schematically illustrate an example implementation. In this implementation the lighting unit 32 has an annular form. With reference to Fig. 4, the lighting unit comprises an annularly shaped light emitting surface 34 which, in the assembled personal care device 12, extends around a complete circumference of a neck of the main body 14. For example, the light emitting surface 34 of the lighting unit 32 extends circumferentially around the main body 14 in a closed-loop about the main axis 15 of extension.
The lighting unit 32 is controllable to vary an angular portion of the light emitting surface 34 which is illuminated at any given time. To this end, and with reference to Fig. 5, the the lighting unit 32 comprises a plurality of light sources 35 which are each arranged to emit light via a respective one of a plurality of different (circumferential) portions of the closed-loop light emitting surface 34 of the lighting unit 32. The plurality of light sources 35 are arranged at intervals around a circumference of the lighting unit. By activating or deactivating selected subsets of the plurality of light sources 35, a spatial patterning of the overall light output 33 of the lighting unit 32 can be configured.
In a preferred embodiment, a color of the light emission of each of the plurality of light sources 35 is controllable, whereby a color of the overall light output 35 of the lighting unit 32 is controllable.
Fig. 6 shows a perspective view of an exterior of an example implementation of the personal care device 12. The personal care device 12 is shown with a selected one 22_n of the set of different functional units connected to the main body 14 of the personal care device. In the example shown in Fig. 6, the selected one of the set of different functional units is the shaving unit 22_1. The location of the lighting unit 32 is shown. The annular light emitting surface 34 extends circumferentially around the main body 14, for example in a closed-loop around the main axis of extension 15 of the main body 14. The main body 14 optionally comprises a display 52 for providing information feedback to a user.
A further view of the same example implementation of the personal care device 12 is shown in Fig. 7. The personal care device in Fig. 7 is shown without any of the functional units 22_n attached to the main body 14. The connection interface 16 is illustrated. The location of the lighting unit 32 and light emitting surface 34 is shown. The light emitting surface extends in a loop around the main axis of extension 15 of the main body 14 of the personal care device 12.
With reference to Fig. 8, in some embodiments, the personal care system 10 may include a pressure sensing subsystem 82 configured for sensing an external pressure 84 exerted at an operational face 86 of at least one functional unit 22_n of the set of different functional units when said functional unit is connected to the connection interface 16. The pressure sensing subsystem 82 is configured to generate an output signal 88 indicative of said external pressure 84.
The pressure sensing subsystem 82 may be integrated in the main body 14 of the personal care device 12.
The pressure sensing subsystem 82 may include one or more pressure sensors. In a preferred embodiment, the at least one functional unit may be a shaver unit 22_1. However, this is not essential.
For example, the at least one functional unit 22_n may be a shaving unit 22_1 having a set of one or more shaving heads for contacting skin to cut hair and wherein the pressure sensing subsystem 82 is arranged to sense pressure exerted on the shaving heads in a direction along a main axis of extension 15 of the main body.
The pressure sensing subsystem 82 may comprise a moveable part which couples mechanically to the operational face 86 of the at least one functional unit 22_n so that pressure 84 at the relevant part of the operational face of the functional unit is coupled into pressure at the moveable part, allowing pressure at the operational face to be transduced by the pressure sensing subsystem 82.
An example pressure sensing subsystem 82 suitable for use in accordance with this set of embodiments is described in document EP3852983B1 .
With further reference to Fig. 8, additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, the personal care system 10 may comprise a motion sensing subsystem 92 configured for sensing at least one characteristic of movement of the personal care device 12 relative to a user's skin during operation. The motion sensing subsystem 92 may be configured to generate an output signal 94 indicative of said characteristic of the movement of the personal care device.
The motion sensing subsystem 92 may include an accelerometer, for example a 3D accelerometer. The motion sensing subsystem 92 may comprise an inertial measurement unit (IMU).
The at least one characteristic of movement may include a direction of motion of the main body 14 of the personal care device 12. The at least one characteristic of movement may include a magnitude of acceleration of the main body 14 of the personal care device 12. The at least one characteristic of movement may include a direction of acceleration of the main body 14 of the personal care device.
In a preferred embodiment, the at least one functional unit 22_n may be a shaver unit 22_1. However, this is not essential.
As illustrated in Fig. 8, in some embodiments, the personal care system 10 may comprise both the pressure sensing subsystem 82 described above and the motion sensing subsystem 92 described above.
With regards to the set 60 of different possible light control modes 62_n, by way of general introduction, these may include one or more light feedback modes wherein the light output 33 of the lighting unit 32 is controlled so as to provide feedback to the user with regards to operation of the device. A light feedback mode may comprise controlling the lighting unit 32 light output 33 in dependence upon a system variable. A system variable may be a variable whose value is dependent upon an output of a system functional component, for example a sensor. The sensor may be a pressure sensor, wherein the light control mode provides feedback to the user related to a pressure exerted on a portion of the device. The sensor may be a movement sensor, wherein the light control mode provides feedback to the user related to movement of the device. Other of the light control modes may not be feedback modes. For example, as will be outlined below, one light control mode provides a uniform light output for the function of illuminating an area of skin.
With reference to Fig. 9, in some embodiments, the set 60 of different light control modes 62_n includes a pressure-related light control mode 62_P. When the controller selects 72 the pressure-related light control mode 62_P, the light output 33 of the lighting unit 32 is controlled 74 in dependence upon the output signal 88 generated by the pressure sensing subsystem 82.
In some embodiments, the control of the light output 33 in dependence upon the output signal 88 of the pressure sensing subsystem 82 comprises varying at least one visual characteristic of the light output 33 in dependence upon the output signal 88 of the pressure sensing subsystem 82. In a preferred embodiment, the at least one visual characteristic comprises a visible color of the light output. However, the at least one visual characteristic may additionally or alternatively include a brightness of the light output, a spatial patterning of the light output, and/or a temporal patterning of the light output. Varying the at least one visual characteristic of the light output 33 in dependence upon the output signal 88 of the pressure sensing subsystem 82 may comprise changing a setting of the at least one visual characteristic in dependence upon a measured value, P_t, of the external pressure 84 exerted on the operational face 86 of the at least one functional unit, wherein the measured valued P_t of the external pressure 84 is represented by the output signal 88 of the pressure sensing subsystem 82. By way of example, a set of value ranges may be defined for measured values P_t of the external pressure and wherein the at least one visual characteristic of the light output 33 is be switched between different pre-defined settings in dependence upon which of the value ranges the measured value P_t of the external pressure falls into.
According to one example implementation, three value ranges are defined for the measured value P_t of the applied pressure, these corresponding respectively to an (e.g. acceptable) low pressure range, an (e.g. acceptable) medium pressure range, and an (e.g. excessive) high pressure range. When the measured value P_t of the external pressure is within the low pressure range, the light output 33 is controlled to be green in color, when the measured value P_t of the external pressure is within the medium pressure range, the light output 33 is controlled to be orange in color, and when the measured value P_t of the external pressure is within the high pressure range, the light output 33 is controlled to be red in color.
In some embodiments, the system may include a user interface which is configured to permit a user to adjust the settings of the at least one characteristic of the light output 33 associated with each of the value ranges for the measured value P_t of the external pressure 84. For example, following on from the example implementation noted above, the user interface may permit a user to change the color of the light output which is associated with each of the value ranges for the external pressure.
With reference to Fig. 10, in some embodiments, the set 60 of different light control modes 62_n includes a motion-related light control mode 62_M. When the controller 42 selects 72 the motion-related light control mode 62_M, the light output 33 of the lighting unit 32 is controlled 74 in dependence upon said output signal 94 generated by the motion sensing subsystem 92.
In some embodiments, the control of the light output 33 in dependence upon the output signal 94 of the motion sensing subsystem 92 comprises varying at least one visual characteristic of the light output 33 in dependence upon the output signal 94 of the motion sensing subsystem 92. In a preferred embodiment, the at least one characteristic comprises a visible color of the light output. However, the at least one characteristic may additionally or alternatively include a brightness of the light output, a spatial patterning of the light output, and/or a temporal patterning of the light output. Varying the at least one visual characteristic of the light output 33 in dependence upon the output signal 94 of the motion sensing subsystem 92 may comprise changing a setting of the at least one visual characteristic in dependence upon a movement pattern of the movement of the personal care device 12 by the user, as represented in the output signal 94 of the motion sensing subsystem 92.
The processor 42 may be configured to perform a motion classification operation which comprises analysing the movement patten of the movement of the personal care device 12 as represented by the output signal 94 from the motion sensing subsystem 92 and classifying it in one of a set of pre-defined classifications. In one preferred implementation, the set of pre-defined classifications may comprise an acceptable motion classification and an unacceptable motion classification. The varying the at least one visual characteristic of the light output 33 in dependence upon the output signal 94 of the motion sensing subsystem 92 may comprise changing a setting of the at least one visual characteristic in dependence upon which of the set of pre-defined classifications the movement pattern represented by the output signal 94 is classified with.
In some embodiments, the analysing of the movement pattern of the movement of the personal care device may comprise distinguishing between linear motion and circular motion. In some embodiments, the movement pattern may be classified with the acceptable motion classification if the movement is detected to be circular motion and may be classified with the unacceptable motion classification if the movement pattern is detected to be linear motion. An example movement analysis operation in accordance with this example implementation is described in European patent application document EP3621775 A1 .
According to one example implementation, when the movement pattern is classified with the acceptable motion classification, the light output 33 is controlled to be green in color and when the movement patten is classified with the unacceptable motion classification, the light output 33 is controlled to be purple in color. Of course, other color designations are also possible.
In some embodiments, the system may include a user interface which is configured to permit a user to adjust the settings of the at least one characteristic of the light output 33 associated with each of the movement pattern classifications for the movement pattern of the movement of the personal care device 12. For example, following on from the example implementation noted above, the user interface may permit a user to change the color of the light output which is associated with each of the movement pattern classifications for the movement of the personal care device.
In some embodiments, the controlling the light output in dependence upon the output signal of the motion sensing subsystem 92 may include executing a light control transition phase responsive to a change from one movement pattern classification to a different movement pattern classification. The transition phase may comprise waiting for a pause period before changing the at least one visual characteristic of the light output. For example, continuing the example implementation noted above, in the case that the classification changes from acceptable motion to unacceptable motion, the controller 32 may be configured to wait for a delay period before changing the light color from the color setting associated with acceptable motion to the color setting associated with unacceptable motion. For example, the delay period may be defined as defined number of measurement samples obtained from the motion sensing subsystem 92. In other words, if the user has previously been following correct motion but changes to incorrect motion, the controller waits for a greater number of incorrect motions (e.g. 10 samples) before changing the light color. On the other hand, when the movement classification changes from unacceptable motion to acceptable motion, the controller may be configured to change the light color immediately, without a delay period. This helps to avoid minor mistakes in motion causing immediate color change, which could be distracting for the user.
In some embodiments, the set 60 of different light control modes includes a combined light control mode. When the controller 42 selects the combined light control mode, the light output 33 of the lighting unit 32 is controlled in dependence upon both the output signal 88 generated by the pressure sensing subsystem 82 and the output signal 94 generated by the motion sensing subsystem 92.
Fig. 11 shows an example implementation of such a combined light control mode 62_PM.
The combined light control mode operates with conditional logic structure, wherein control of the light output 33 of the lighting unit 32 is altered in dependence upon a measured value P_t of the external pressure 84, as represented by the output signal 88 of the pressure sensing subsystem 82.
In accordance with the combined light control mode 62_M, when a measured value, P_t, of the external pressure 84 is below a predefined threshold value, P_thresh, the light output 33 of the lighting unit 32 is controlled in dependence upon the output signal 94 generated by the motion sensing subsystem 92. Conversely, when the measured value, P_t, of the external pressure 84 is above the predefined threshold value, P_thresh, the light output 33 of the lighting unit 32 is controlled in dependence upon the output signal 88 of the pressure sensing subsystem 82.
In other words, while the external pressure remains below the threshold value, the light output 33 is controlled to provide motion-related feedback. However, once pressure exceeds the threshold, the controller switches and instead controls the light output 33 to provide pressure-related feedback. The control of the light output 33 in dependence upon the output signal 88 of the pressure-sensing subsystem 82 may for example be done in the same way as is done in the pressure-related light control mode 62_P discussed previously. The control of the light output 33 in dependence upon the output signal 94 of the motion-sensing subsystem 92 may for example be done in the same way as is done in the motion-related light control mode 62_M discussed previously. The sensed external pressure 84 exerted at the operational face 86 of the at least one functional unit 22_n represents a pressure with which the user is applying the operational face 86 of the at least one functional unit 22_n to their skin. The pressure threshold, P_thresh, may represent a pre-determined maximum pressure consistent with optimal performance and results. For example, if the at least one functional unit is the shaving unit, this may be the maximum pressure above which shaving performance is diminished.
In some embodiments, the set 60 of different light control modes 62_n includes all three of: the pressure-related light control mode 62_P as described above, the motion-related light control mode 62_M, as described above, and the combined light control mode 62_PM as described above. The controller 42 may be selectively operable in each of the pressure-related light control mode 62_P, the motion-related light control mode 62_M, and the combined light control mode (62_PM).
In some embodiments, the set 60 of different light control modes 62_n includes a skin-illuminating light control mode, wherein the light output of the lighting unit is controlled to be generated with predefined non-varying light output characteristics configured for illuminating an area of skin being acted upon by the selected one of the set 20 of different functional units 22_n which is connected to the main body 14. In other words, instead of the light output 33 of the lighting unit 32 being utilised for the function of providing feedback related to operation of the personal care device 12, the light output 33 of the lighting unit 32 is utilised to provide an illumination light to improve visibility of an area of skin being acted upon by the selected one of the set of different functional units which is connected to the personal care device 12.
As previously described, with reference to Fig. 4 and Fig. 5, the light emitting surface 34 of the lighting unit 32 may in some embodiments extend circumferentially around the main body 14 of the personal care device 12, for example in a closed-loop, about a main axis of extension 15 of the main body 14. The lighting unit 32 may comprise a plurality of light sources 35 which are each arranged to emit light via a respective one of a plurality of different portions of the closed-loop light emitting surface 34 of the lighting unit 32.
With reference to Fig. 12, in accordance with said skin-illuminating light control mode described above (labelled 62_L in Fig. 12), the plurality of light sources 35 may be controlled such that the lighting unit 32 emits light via a first subset 112 of the plurality of different portions of the closed-loop light emitting surface 34 and the lighting unit 32 does not emit light via a second subset 114 of the plurality of different portions of the closed-loop light emitting surface. The light sources 35 which are illuminating the first subset 112 of portions of the light emitting surface 34 are highlighted as white in Fig.12. The light sources 35 which are illuminating the second subset 114 of the portions of the light emitting surface 34 are highlighted as grey in Fig. 12. The skin illuminating light control mode 62_L is such that the first subset 112 of the plurality of different portions of the light emitting surface 34 are a subset which are facing, during operation, an area of the user's skin being acted upon by the selected one of the set of different functional units which is connected to the main body 14 and the second subset 114 of the plurality of different portions of the closed-loop light emitting surface which are facing away, during operation, from said area of the user's skin. For example, half of the circumference of the light emitting surface may be illuminated and the other half of the circumference of the light emitting surface may remain non-illuminated. By only illuminating light sources 35 of the plurality of light sources which are facing toward the skin of the user being acted upon by the functional unit of the personal care device 12, this conserves energy and in addition helps to avoid dazzling or distracting the user with a large amount of bright light.
In accordance with the skin-illuminating light control mode 62_L, the light output 33 of the activated subset of the light sources 35 may be controlled to be white in color.
The set of different functional units may include at least three different functional units, the at least three different functional units including at least a beard styler 22_5 and a precision hair trimmer 22. In some embodiments, the controller 42 may be configured to control the light output 33 generated by the lighting unit 32 in accordance with the skin-illuminating light control mode 62_L when the output 37 generated by the functional unit recognition subsystem 36 is associated with either the beard styler 22_5 or the precision hair trimmer 22_2.
In some embodiments, the set 60 of different light control modes includes a time-related light control mode, wherein the light output 33 of the lighting unit 32 is controlled in dependence upon the total elapsed time of a current operation session.
For example, with reference to Fig. 13, the controller 42 may include a timer module 122 for counting a total elapsed time of a current operation session of the selected one of the set 20 of different functional units 22_n which is connected to the main body 14 of the personal care device. In accordance with the time related light control mode 62_T, the controller is configured to control 74 the light output 33 of the lighting unit 32 in dependence upon the total elapsed time of the current operation session counted by the timer module 122.
Controlling 74 the light output 33 of the lighting unit 32 in dependence upon the total elapsed time may comprise controlling the light output to provide an indication as to when a pre-determined target operation session duration has elapsed. For example, the controller may control the light output 33 such that at least one visual characteristic of the light output 33 changes when the target operation session duration has elapsed.
By way of example, for some types of functional unit, a usage session which is greater than a certain length may cause skin irritation or skin damage. For example, when the functional unit is the skin cleansing bush, overuse may harm the skin. At the same time, a usage session which is too short may be ineffective. For this reason, timing feedback is useful.
By way of example, the controller may control the light output 33 to be inactive before the target operation session duration has elapsed, and to blink one or more times once the target operation session duration has elapsed. However, this is just one example presented for purposes of illustration.
In some embodiments, the target operation session duration may be selected to correspond to a target usage duration of the device on one particular area of the skin, and wherein the light output 33 is controlled to provide a prompt or pointer to the user that they should move on to another area. For example, the target time duration may be 20 seconds by default. The target time duration may be configurable by the user, for example via a user interface, for example via a setting adjustable in a software application installed on a mobile computing device.
With reference to Fig. 14, in some embodiments, the personal care system 10 further comprises a user interface 102. The user interface may be implemented by a software application run on a mobile computing device, i.e. a mobile computing App. The user interface 102 is configured for receiving a user input command 104.
For at least one of the set 20 of different functional units 22_n, responsive to the output 37 of the functional unit recognition subsystem 36 being indicative of the at least one of the set of different functional units being connected to the connection interface 16, the controller 42 may be configured to determine 71 a subset 61 of at least two different light control modes from the set 60 of different light control modes. In the illustrated example, the subset 61 of light control modes comprises a subset of three light control modes 62_1, 62_2, 62_3, among a total set of five different light control modes. By way of example, the set of five light control modes may include the pressure-related light control mode 62_P, the motion-related light control mode 62_M, the combined light control mode 62_PM, the skin-illuminating light control mode 62_L and the time-related light control mode 62_T. By way of example, the sub-set of three different light control modes may comprise the pressure-related light control mode 62_P, the motion-related light control mode 62_M, and the combined light control mode 62_PM. These are examples only, recited for purposes of illustrating the concept.
The controller 42 may be configured to enable a user of the personal care system to select 106 a desired one of the subset 61 of at least two different light control modes by means of a user input command 104 input to the user interface 102. The controller 42 is configured to receive an output signal 108 from the user interface 102 indicative of the selected one of the subset 61 of at least two different light control modes selected 106 by the user. The controller may determine 72 a selected one of the set 60 of different light control modes 62_n, in accordance with which to control the light output 33 of the lighting unit 32 in accordance with the selected one of the subset 61 of at least two different light control modes selected 106 by the user. The controller then controls 74 the light output 33 generated by the lighting unit 32 in accordance with the selected one of the subset 61 of at least two different light control modes selected 106 by the user.
In a preferred implementation, when the at least one of the functional units is a shaver unit 22_1, and subset of light control modes includes the pressure-related light control mode 62_P, the motion-related light control mode 62_M, and the combined light control mode 62_PM. These are examples only, recited for purposes of illustration.
Fig. 15 illustrates a method in accordance with one preferred embodiment of the invention.
In this preferred embodiment, the set of different functional units comprises a shaving unit 22_1, a precision trimmer 22_2, a nose trimmer 22_3, a facial cleansing brush 22_4, and a beard styler 22_5. In this preferred embodiment, the set 60 of different light control modes 62_n comprises: the pressure-related light control mode 62_P as described above, the motion-related light control mode 62_M as described above, the combined light control mode as described above, the time-related light control mode 62_T as described above, and the skin illuminating light control mode 62_L as described above.
The controller receives the output 37 from the functional unit recognition subsystem 36 associated with the selected one of the set of different functional units.
If the detected functional unit is the shaving unit 22_1, the controller 42 follows the procedure outlined in Fig. 14 and described above wherein the controller is configured to determine 71 a subset 61 of at least two different light control modes from the set 60 of different light control modes, and to enable a user of the personal care system to select 106 a desired one of the subset 61 of at least two different light control modes by means of a user interface 102. The controller 42 then selects one of the subset 61 of light control modes in which to control the light output 33 in accordance with the user selection, as represented in an output signal 108 from the user interface 102 indicative of the selected one of the subset 61 of at least two different light control modes selected 106 by the user. The subset 61 of light control modes comprises the pressure-related light control mode 62_P, the motion-related light control mode 62_M and the combined light control mode 62_PM. The controller controls the light output 33 of the lighting unit 32 in accordance with the one of these three modes 62_P, 62_M, 62_PM which the user has selected.
The user may additionally be provided an option via the user interface to deactivate the light output 33 from the lighting unit 32. Responsive to the user selecting 106 this option, the controller puts the lighting unit into a disabled mode 62_D in which the light output 33 is inactive. Thus, the subset 61 of light control modes which are presented for selection by the user can be understood to additionally include a disabled mode 62_D.
If the detected functional unit is the nose trimmer 22_3, the controller 42 is configured to put the lighting unit 32 into the disabled mode 62_D in which the light output is inactive.
If the detected functional unit is the beard styler 22_5 or the precision trimmer 22_2, the controller 42 is configured to follow the general procedure outlined in Fig. 14 and described above wherein the controller is configured to determine 71 a subset subset 61 of at least two different light control modes from the set 60 of different light control modes, and to enable a user of the personal care system to select 106 a desired one of the subset 61 of at least two different light control modes by means of a user interface 102. In this case, the determined subset 61 of light control modes consists of the disabled mode 62_D and the skin-illuminating light control mode 62_L. The controller 42 selects one of the subset 61 of light control modes in which to control the light output 33 in accordance with the user selection, as represented in an output signal 108 from the user interface 102 indicative of the selected one of the subset 61 of at least two different light control modes selected 106 by the user.
If the detected functional unit is the facial cleansing brush 22_4, the controller 42 is configured to follow the general procedure outlined in Fig. 14 and described above wherein the controller is configured to determine 71 a subset subset 61 of at least two different light control modes from the set 60 of different light control modes, and to enable a user of the personal care system to select 106 a desired one of the subset 61 of at least two different light control modes by means of a user interface 102. In this case, the determined subset 61 of light control modes consists of the disabled mode 62_D and the time-related light control mode 62_T. The controller is further configured to retrieve 132 from the user interface a user-configured setting defining the target time duration for each operation session to be used in the time-related light control mode. The controller 42 selects one of the subset 61 of light control modes in which to control the light output 33 in accordance with the user selection, as represented in an output signal 108 from the user interface 102 indicative of the selected one of the subset 61 of at least two different light control modes selected 106 by the user.
In some embodiments, the personal care system 10 may further include one or more auxiliary devices or accessories or components. The one or more auxiliary devices may include a cleaning module configured to receive at least a portion of the personal care device 12 and to perform cleaning of the received at least portion of the personal care device. The one or more auxiliary devices may include a charging station. The one or more auxiliary devices may include a charging cable.
In some embodiments, the controller 42 may be configured to detect engagement of the at least portion of the personal care device 12 with the cleaning module, and to control the light output 33 of the lighting unit 32 with a pre-defined light control mode. The pre-defined light control mode may be for communicating to a user that the device is being cleaned.
In some embodiments, the controller 42 may be configured to detect connection of the personal care device 12 with the charging station or charging cable and to control the light output of the lighting unit 32 with a pre-defined light control mode. The pre-defined light control mode may be for communicating to a user that the device is charging.
Embodiments of the invention described above employ a processing device. The processing device may in general comprise a single processor or a plurality of processors. It may be located in a single containing device, structure or unit, or it may be distributed between a plurality of different devices, structures or units. Reference therefore to the processing device being adapted or configured to perform a particular step or task may correspond to that step or task being performed by any one or more of a plurality of processing components, either alone or in combination. The skilled person will understand how such a distributed processing device can be implemented. The processing device includes a communication module or input/output for receiving data and outputting data to further components.
The one or more processors of the processing device can be implemented in numerous ways, with software and/or hardware, to perform the various functions required. A processor typically employs one or more microprocessors that may be programmed using software (e.g., microcode) to perform the required functions. The processor may be implemented as a combination of dedicated hardware to perform some functions and one or more programmed microprocessors and associated circuitry to perform other functions.
Examples of circuitry that may be employed in various embodiments of the present disclosure include, but are not limited to, conventional microprocessors, application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), and field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs).
In various implementations, the processor may be associated with one or more storage media such as volatile and non-volatile computer memory such as RAM, PROM, EPROM, and EEPROM. The storage media may be encoded with one or more programs that, when executed on one or more processors and/or controllers, perform the required functions. Various storage media may be fixed within a processor or controller or may be transportable, such that the one or more programs stored thereon can be loaded into a processor.
Variations to the disclosed embodiments can be understood and effected by those skilled in the art in practicing the claimed invention, from a study of the drawings, the disclosure and the appended claims. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality.
A single processor or other unit may fulfill the functions of several items recited in the claims.
The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage.
A computer program may be stored/distributed on a suitable medium, such as an optical storage medium or a solid-state medium supplied together with or as part of other hardware, but may also be distributed in other forms, such as via the Internet or other wired or wireless telecommunication systems.
If the term "adapted to" is used in the claims or description, it is noted the term "adapted to" is intended to be equivalent to the term "configured to".
Any reference signs in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope.

List of reference numerals:

10 - personal care system
12 - personal care device
14 - main body
16 - connection interface
18 - motor
20 - set of different functional units
22_n - functional unit
22_1 - shaving unit
22_2 - precision trimmer
22_3 - nose trimmer
22_4 - facial cleansing brush
22_5 - beard styler
32 - lighting unit
33 - light output
34 - light emitting surface
35 - light source
36 - functional unit recognition subsystem
37 - output of functional unit recognition subsystem
42 - controller
60 - set of different light control modes
61 - subset of light control modes
62_n - light control mode
62_P - pressure-related light control mode
62_M - motion-related light control mode
62_PM - combined light control mode
62_T - time-related light control mode
62_L - skin-illuminating light control mode
62_D - disabled mode
71 - determine subset of light control modes
72 - determine selected light control mode
74 - control light output
82 - pressure sensing subsystem
84 - external pressure
86 - operational face
88 - output signal of pressure sensing
subsystem
92 - motion sensing subsystem
94 - output signal of motion sensing subsystem
102 - user interface
104 - user input command
106 - user selection
108 - output signal from user interface
132 - retrieve user-configured setting

Claims

A personal care system (10), comprising:
- a set (20) of different functional units (22_n) each having a movable functional component;

- a personal care device (12) having:
a main body (14);

a motor (18) accommodated in the main body (14); and

a connection interface (16) arranged on the main body (14) and adapted to enable connection of any selected one of the set of different functional units (22_n) to the main body so as to enable driving of the movable functional component of the selected one of the set of different functional units by the motor (18);

wherein the main body (14) accommodates a lighting unit (32) having a light emitting surface (34) and including at least one light source (35);

- a functional unit recognition subsystem (36) configured to differentially identify, among the set of different functional units (22_n), the selected one of the set of different functional units which is connected to the connection interface (16) and generate an output (37) associated with the identified selected one of the set of different functional units; and

- a controller (42) configured for controlling a light output generated by the lighting unit (32) in accordance with any selected one of a set (60) of different light control modes (62_n);
wherein the controller (42) is adapted to determine (72) a selected one of the set of different light control modes (62_n), in accordance with which to control the light output (33) of the lighting unit, in dependence upon the output (37) of the functional unit recognition subsystem (36).
The personal care system (10) as claimed in claim 1, wherein:
the personal care system includes a pressure sensing subsystem (82) configured for sensing an external pressure (84) exerted at an operational face (86) of at least one functional unit (22_n) of the set of different functional units when said functional unit is connected to the connection interface (16), the pressure sensing subsystem (82) being configured to generate an output signal (88) indicative of said external pressure; and

the set (60) of different light control modes (62_n) includes a pressure-related light control mode (62_P), wherein the light output of the lighting unit is controlled in dependence upon said output signal generated by the pressure sensing subsystem.
The personal care system (10) as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein:
the personal care system includes a motion sensing subsystem (92) configured for sensing at least one characteristic of movement of the personal care device (12) relative to a user's skin during operation, the motion sensing subsystem (92) being configured to generate an output signal (94) indicative of said characteristic of the movement of the personal care device; and

the set (60) of different light control modes (62_n) includes a motion-related light control mode (62_M), wherein the light output (33) of the lighting unit (32) is controlled in dependence upon said output signal (94) generated by the motion sensing subsystem (92).
The personal care system as claimed in claim 1, wherein:
the personal care system (10) includes a pressure sensing subsystem (82) configured for sensing an external pressure (84) exerted at an operational face (86) of at least one functional unit (22_n) of the set of different functional units when said functional unit is connected to the connection interface (16), the pressure sensing subsystem (82) being configured to generate an output signal (88) indicative of said external pressure;

the personal care system (10) includes a motion sensing subsystem (92) configured for sensing at least one characteristic of movement of the personal care device (12) relative to a user's skin during operation, the motion sensing subsystem (92) being configured to generate an output signal (94) indicative of said characteristic of said movement; and

the set (60) of different light control modes (62_n) includes a combined light control mode (62_PM), wherein the light output (33) of the lighting unit (32) is controlled in dependence upon both the output signal (88) generated by the pressure sensing subsystem (82) and the output signal (94) generated by the motion sensing subsystem (92).
The personal care system (10) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the output signal (88) of the pressure sensing subsystem (82) represents a measured value (P_t) of the external pressure (84) and wherein, in accordance with said combined light control mode (62_PM):
when the measured value (P_t) of the external pressure (84) is below a predefined threshold value (P_thresh), the light output (33) of the lighting unit (32) is controlled in dependence upon the output signal (88) generated by the motion sensing subsystem (92), and

when the measured value (P_t) of the external pressure (84) is above the predefined threshold value (P_thresh), the light output (33) of the lighting unit (32) is controlled in dependence upon the output signal (88) of the pressure sensing subsystem (82).
The personal care system (10) as claimed in claim 4 or 5, wherein the set (60) of different light control modes (62_n) further includes:
- a pressure-related light control mode (62_P), according to which the light output (33) of the lighting unit (32) is controlled in dependence upon said output signal (88) generated by the pressure sensing subsystem (82); and

- a motion-related light control mode (62_M), according to which the light output (33) of the lighting unit (32) is controlled in dependence upon said output signal (94) generated by the motion sensing subsystem (92);
and wherein the controller (42) is selectively operable in each of the pressure-related light control mode (62_P), the motion-related light control mode (62_M), and the combined light control mode (62_PM).
The personal care system (10) as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein:
the personal care system further comprises a user interface (102) configured for receiving a user input command (104);

the controller (42) is configured, for at least one of the set of different functional units when being identified as the selected one of the set of different functional units which is connected to the connection interface, to:
- determine (71) a subset (61) of at least two different light control modes from the set (60) of different light control modes;

- enable a user of the personal care system to select (106) a desired one of the subset (61) of at least two different light control modes by means of the user interface (102);

- receive an output signal (108) from the user interface (102) indicative of the selected one of the subset (61) of at least two different light control modes selected (106) by the user; and

- control (74) the light output (33) generated by the lighting unit (32) in accordance with the selected one of the subset (61) of at least two different light control modes selected (106) by the user.
The personal care system (10) as claimed in any of the preceding claims,
wherein the set (60) of different light control modes (62_n) includes a skin-illuminating light control mode (62_L), wherein the light output (33) of the lighting unit (32) is controlled to be generated with predefined non-varying light output characteristics configured for illuminating an area of skin being acted upon by the selected one of the set of different functional units which is connected to the main body (14).
The personal care system (10) as claimed in claim 8, wherein:
the main body (14) has a main axis of extension (15);

the light emitting surface (34) of the lighting unit (32) extends circumferentially around the main body (14) as a closed-loop light emitting surface (34) about the main axis of extension (15);

the lighting unit (32) comprises a plurality of light sources (35) which are each arranged to emit light via a respective one of a plurality of different portions of the closed-loop light emitting surface (34) of the lighting unit (32); and

in accordance with said skin-illuminating light control mode, the plurality of light sources (35) are controlled such that the lighting unit (32) emits light via a first subset of the plurality of different portions of the closed-loop light emitting surface (34) which are facing, during operation, an area of the user's skin being acted upon by the selected one of the set of different functional units which is connected to the main body, and the lighting unit (32) does not emit light via a second subset of the plurality of different portions of the closed-loop light emitting surface which are facing away, during operation, from said area of the user's skin.
The personal care system as claimed in claim 9,
wherein the set of different functional units includes at least three different functional units, the at least three different functional units including at least a beard styler (22_5) and a precision hair trimmer (22_2) ; and

wherein the controller (42) is configured to control the light output (33) generated by the lighting unit (32) in accordance with the skin-illuminating light control mode when the output (37) generated by the functional unit recognition subsystem (36) is associated with either the beard styler (22_5) or the precision hair trimmer (22_2) .
The personal care system as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein:
the controller (42) includes a timer module for counting a total elapsed time of a current operation session of the selected one of the set of different functional units which is connected to the main body (14), and

the set (60) of different light control modes includes a time-related light control mode, wherein the light output (33) of the lighting unit (32) is controlled in dependence upon the total elapsed time of the current operation session counted by the timer module.
The personal care system as claimed in any of claims 1-11, wherein the controller (14) is arranged in the main body (14) of the personal care device.
The personal care system as claimed in any of claims 1-12, wherein the set of different functional units comprises a selection of any two or more of: a shaving unit (22_1), a precision hair trimmer (22_2), a facial cleansing brush unit (22_4), a beard styler (22_5), and a nose trimmer (22_3).
A computer-implemented method for controlling (74) a light output (33) generated by a lighting unit (32) of a personal care device (12) of a personal care system (10),
the personal care system (10) further comprising a set (20) of different functional units (22_n) each having a movable functional component, and the personal care device (12) having: a main body (14); a motor (18) accommodated in the main body (14); and a connection interface (16) arranged on the main body (14) and adapted to enable connection of any selected one of the set of different functional units (22_n) to the main body so as to enable driving of the movable functional component of the selected one of the set of different functional units by the motor, wherein the main body accommodates the lighting unit (32) and the lighting unit has a light emitting surface (34) and at least one light source (35);

the method comprising:
differentially identifying, among the set (20) of different functional units (22_n), a selected one of the set of different functional units which is connected to the connection interface (16);

determining (72) a selected one of a set (60) of different light control modes in dependence upon the identified selected one of the set of different functional units which is connected to the connection interface (16); and

controlling (74) the light output (33) generated by the lighting unit (32) in accordance with the selected one of the set of different light control modes (62_n).
A computer program product comprising instructions which, when the program is executed by a computer, cause the computer to carry out the method of claim 14.