FR3118568A1 - PORTABLE STYLING DEVICE WITH MASSAGE BRISTLES AND FORMULATION DISPENSER - Google Patents

Abstract

Portable hair styling device with massaging bristles and formulation dispenser Hair and scalp treatment device that includes a dispenser connected to a cartridge, wherein the cartridge includes a formulation; a plurality of tips on the device, wherein the tips have at least one opening for dispensing the formulation; and a controller configured to individually control the dispensing of the formulation through one or more nozzles. Figure for the abstract: Figure 1

Description

PORTABLE STYLING DEVICE WITH MASSAGE BRISTLES AND FORMULATION DISPENSER

SUMMARY

There are formulations for the scalp and hair to treat dandruff, hair loss, stress reduction, itching, color and tint, oiliness, look, frizz, volume, shine, dryness, density, and more. However, smarter methods for applying the formulations to the scalp and hair are needed.

In one embodiment, a portable brush or comb device includes massage tips individually controlled by an actuator in XYZ motions. The tips individually dispense a precisely measured volume of product to the scalp, only in contact with the scalp (through the use of open/short or dielectric skin contact sensors). Individually activated tips spray hair product (dry shampoo or color dye) in tightly controlled formations (i.e. flat fan). Customized scalp and hair products are stocked in interchangeable cartridges. Adding a camera helps diagnose scalp and hair issues related to hair density, tone and dryness. Adding LEDs can further treat hair, facilitate camera imaging, and be used for formula curing.

This summary is provided to present a selection of concepts in a simplified form which are described in more detail below in the Detailed Description. This summary is not intended to identify key particulars of claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to help determine the scope of claimed subject matter.

DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

The foregoing aspects and many of the associated advantages of this invention will be more readily appreciated with better understanding by reference to the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

There is a schematic illustration of a hair and scalp treatment device;

There is a schematic illustration of the hair and scalp treatment device of the ;

There is a schematic illustration of a back view of the hair and scalp treatment device of the ;

There is a schematic illustration of a nozzle using a half-cylinder construction for the brush and comb embodiments;

There is a schematic illustration of a tip using a full cylinder-in-cylinder construction for the brush and comb embodiments;

There is a schematic illustration of a tip with LEDs of half-cylinder construction for the brush and comb embodiments;

There is a schematic illustration of a tip with full cylinder construction LEDs within a cylinder for the brush and comb embodiments;

There is a schematic illustration showing the components of one embodiment of a hair and scalp treatment device;

There is a schematic illustration showing the ends of individual tips controlled to dispense formulation in circular and linear patterns; And

There is a schematic illustration showing an individual mouthpiece having individual actuators for vibration in three axes.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Individuals wash their hair less and less often with a traditional water-based wet shampoo. Several reasons can be given for the decrease in this type of shampoo, such as preventing hair loss and damage to hair or saving time and energy. Dry shampoos are on the rise. People are trying to extend the time between salon visits to save money, leading to a growing interest in tinted dry shampoos for root touch-ups. Dry shampoos are mostly packaged in spray bottles. However, spray bottles raise concerns about inhaling the product and unintentionally spraying the face, especially the eyes. Spray bottles are imprecise in the direction and amount of product sprayed. Also, vaporizers are not suitable for travel or public restroom use. Dry shampoos do not clean the scalp and can actually damage it. Nevertheless, it is believed that taking care of the scalp leads to healthy hair. "Dry" methods of cleansing the scalp involve either brushing or smoothing to distribute the sebum through the hair. Scalp treatment and scalp formulas can be applied using pipettes, mousses or powders, and require manual hair parting. Powders and foams are put on the hands. Too much product on the scalp can cause run-off and leave hair looking greasy. The design of reusable and closed-loop products is a growing demand.

In one embodiment, a device includes individually controlled massage tips in XYZ motions by an actuator. Tips individually dispense a precisely measured volume of scalp product only upon contact with the scalp (via open/short or dielectric skin contact sensors). Individually activated tips spray hair product (dry shampoo or color dye) in tightly controlled formations (i.e. flat fan). Custom scalp and hair products are stocked in interchangeable cartridges. Adding a camera helps diagnose scalp and hair issues related to hair density, tone and dryness. The addition of LEDs can further treat hair, facilitate camera imaging and be used for formula curing.

In one embodiment, a device releases product to the hair and/or scalp as a vapor cloud (mist) or by ultrasound (similar to a household humidifier). Smoother product dispersion reduces the amount of product wasted and improves coverage control. This solution contrasts with an aerosol can which sprays more than necessary and produces a large cloud that covers an area far beyond the user's head.

In one embodiment, a multi-use device with individually controlled tips for formulation dispensing and other uses is disclosed.

In one embodiment, each end cap is constructed as a junction of a first half-cylinder as the positive conductor and a second half-cylinder as the negative conductor, separated by a non-conductive joint. In purely geometrical terms, each end piece is a cylindrical chamber split lengthwise into two or more isolated chambers, or two or more isolated cylinders attached to each other lengthwise .

In one embodiment, a positive terminal cap can be used to provide additional functionality to the caps. In one embodiment, microcurrents can be delivered to the scalp, where the scalp serves as a ground path that also includes skin and tissue between the scalp and a negative terminal placed to contact with the hand, such as on handle 104 of device 100. The tips can deliver microcurrents to the scalp, where the scalp serves as a conductive path between any positive and negative terminals. Alternatively, microcurrents can be delivered between multiple tips, where one tip serves as a positive source and the other serves as a ground.

In one embodiment, the impedance can be measured between the positive and negative terminals to determine the level of hydration of the scalp. Alternatively, impedance can also be measured between multiple tips to determine the level of scalp hydration in larger regions. Impedance can be measured between the positive terminal or the negative terminal and the scalp (via the return path to the handle) to determine if a tip is in contact with the scalp (skin). This is useful if the application requires contact with the scalp; for example, in a formula treatment with a suction system, where the scalp is the target of the treatment and the suction may suck in the hair if it is not working directly on the scalp.

An LED can be placed at the end of the end cap and powered from both terminals. If the LED is powerful, the heat dissipation may be absorbed (heat dissipated) by the conductive material. An LED placed at the end of the tip will deliver more energy to the scalp than if it were at the base and/or delivered through a long fiber optic path. The LED can be used for processing, formula curing, or device status indication (i.e. operating mode or charge status).

A series of laser cut holes (perforations) along the length of the tip can be used to deliver formulas to the scalp and/or hair. Alternatively, individual openings at the very end of the tip can be used if only the scalp is targeted.

The functions of the tips and their split conduction halves can be dynamically controlled and reassigned by a central integrated circuit in the main body of the brush device. Even if the tip is not made of conductive materials, the "two or more cylinder" construction may be useful if the application involves mixing formulas or dispensing formula with suction over a small, controlled target area of the scalp.

There is an illustration of a 100 hair cleansing device that can be used with dry shampoo formulas and has added functionality through individual tip activation for dispensing, picking up, massaging and other uses. In one embodiment, device 100 utilizes a brush or comb-like architecture that relies on a combination of mechanical and chemical actions to deposit desired formulas for cleaning, removing formulas with unwanted particles, and further provides additional cosmetic or health attributes. The intuitive action provides a familiar gesture that's easy to incorporate into today's beauty and hair care routines. Additionally, device 100 may include various types of conductive or non-conductive hollow tips (702, 802, 1100 or 1200) arranged in a brush or comb configuration. A brush configuration is shown in the FIGURES, however, device 100 may be configured with tips in a comb configuration, i.e., in a single row. However, tips arranged in a brush configuration have various advantages, such as individual actuation of the tips for the application of one or more treatments, dispensing or massage using only certain tips, but not of all.

In one embodiment, the fact that the tips are conductive allows several options, for example, the conductive tips can be used with a micro-current generator, or the conductive tips can be used as a sensing instrument to detect contact with the skin, or the conductive tips can be used to power phototherapy light emitting diodes (LEDs), or the conductive tips can be used to deliver vibration in one to three axes.

In one embodiment, device 100 is provided with tips utilizing a hollow construction which allows formulations to be more accurately delivered. For example, formulations can be dispensed only from these tips to form a certain spray pattern. In one embodiment, the conductive tips consist of more than one hollow chamber extending the length of the tips which allow one or more formulations to be dispensed through the tips. In one embodiment, the tips are non-conductive, but still include hollow chambers extending the length of the tips to provide the dispensing feature.

In one embodiment, device 100 is fashioned in the style of familiar and well-known hair appliances to inspire confidence in the device, leading to intuitive operation and gestures when using the device.

As shown in FIGURES 1 and 2, the device embodiment 100 includes a handle 104 connected to a substantially cylindrical section 138. The handle 104 is connected to the device 100 at an obtuse angle relative to the forward end of the device 100 The handle 104 helps balance the weight of the device for more comfortable use and easier control. Control buttons can also be located on the handle.

By referring to the , on the back, device 100 may include a smaller diameter cylindrical shaped housing 136 which accepts a removable cartridge 102 containing a hair or scalp treatment formulation. Device 100 allows cartridges 102 to be easily interchanged to provide different formulations. Cartridge 102 can be configured to be a refillable cartridge or a disposable cartridge. In one embodiment, device 100 may be configured to contain more than one cartridge 102, each cartridge may be filled with a different formulation for a different treatment. Alternatively, some applications may use two or more different formulations which require application of both formulations to achieve the intended treatment.

Ahead of rear housing 136, the outer shape of device 100 increases in steps to a larger outer diameter portion 138 relative to the diameter of cartridge housing 136. In one embodiment, device 100 includes a body structure which has a minimally tapered substantially cylindrical or conical portion 138 from the rear end to about midway along the length of the device. In one embodiment, handle 104 is connected to the back of portion 138.

In one embodiment, device 100 has its tips 602, 702, 1100, 1200 arranged in a brush configuration, such as concentric circles. Device 100 includes a brush head 140 connected to central portion 138. Brush head 140 is the part of device 100 that contains tips 602, 702, 1100, or 1200. In one embodiment, brush head 140 is static relative to the device and does not activate, because the different tips are individually activated to vibrate, which avoids having a rotating or oscillating brush head. Additionally, the tips are also configured to allow control of the dispensing of formulations from some individual tips and not others. This allows certain tips to be "on" and other tips to be "off" to create different spray patterns from the brush head.

In one embodiment, tips 602, 702, 1100, 1200 are arranged in concentric circles on brush head 140. In one embodiment, tips 602, 702, 1100, 1200 are configured to be capable of delivering two different formulations. In one embodiment, end caps 602, 702, 1100, 1200 have hollow chambers that extend the full length of the end caps. End pieces 602, 702, 1100, 1200 have a length of at least one diameter. However, end caps 602, 702, 1100, 1200 can be constructed to be multiple diameters in length, so the width to length ratio can vary from 1 in 1 to 1 in 20 or more. Tips 602, 702, 1100, 1200 can be flexible or non-flexible. The tips 602, 702, 1100, 1200 can also be connected to the brush head 140 made of flexible material. The separate chambers allow one or more formulations to be delivered through each chamber without mixing. The formulations can be separated in the respective chambers until the formulations exit the chambers. The dispensing of the formulations can be achieved by constructing each of the chambers with openings along the length or only at the ends or both along the length and the ends of the chambers. Additionally, each of the chambers of the tips may be equipped with a valve or other means to control dispensing from a single chamber or from both chambers. Controlling the dispensing of formulations from only certain tips on the brush head allows for dispensing in multiple patterns, for example, cone spray, fan spray, etc.

In one embodiment, the chambers are shown as half cylinders and full cylinders, but the chambers can take any cross-sectional shape. Further, in one embodiment, end caps 602, 702, 1100, 1200 and first and second hollow chambers therein may be electrically conductive so as to be configured as a positive and negative terminal to further provide micro- currents to scalp and hair. In addition, the conductive tips 602, 702, 1100, 1200 have other uses when the first and second hollow chambers are connected to a positive and negative terminal of a power supply or when the first and second hollow chambers are connected to a positive and negative sensing terminal.

In one embodiment, the tips 602, 702, 1100, 1200 need not be conductive, but the multi-barrel construction may still be useful if the application involves mixing formulations or dispensing formulations and suck on a small controlled target area on the scalp.

By referring to the , in one embodiment, the end piece 602 is constructed as the junction of a first hollow half-cylinder 604 to a second hollow half-cylinder 606 lengthwise. The first 604 and second 606 half-cylinders can be made of an electrically conductive material. In one embodiment, the first 604 and second 606 half-cylinders are separated by an electrical insulator 608. Here, although the general shape of the tip 602 is that of a "cylinder", according to this disclosure, the tip 602 may have any cross-sectional shape, including oblong, rectangular, square, or any other polygon.

In one embodiment, the first hollow half-cylinder 604 and the second hollow half-cylinder 606 are made of a conductive material such as metal. In one embodiment, one of the first 604 or second 606 half-cylinder may be designated as a positive conductive terminal and the other half-cylinder will be designated as a negative conductive terminal.

In one embodiment, the first 604 and second 606 hollow chambers are made of a shape-memory or piezoelectric material that may be actuated by an electric current to control the direction of travel of the tips 602, or may be incorporated into a such material. In one embodiment, the chambers in a two-chamber construction could be made of shape-memory or piezoelectric materials that actuate in opposite directions from each other, allowing more and/or less actuation. around a central position depending on which chamber is activated, or may be incorporated into such materials. These materials can exist in the form of polymers, ceramics and alloys, for example. In one embodiment, the shape memory and piezoelectric materials can be fabricated as coils, and need not be hollow chambers. Coils can be effective in actuating bits vertically along the Z axis (i.e. in the axial direction of the coil). The electrical actuation of the shape memory and piezoelectric materials takes place via an alternating current or direct current power source, the positive and negative terminals of which are connected to the shape memory or piezoelectric material.

There further illustrates that end caps 602 may have openings 904 on the outer circumference. The hollow half-cylinder 604 has first openings 904 along an exterior length, and the hollow half-cylinder 606 has second openings 906 along an exterior length. In one embodiment, apertures 904, 906 may be made by laser cutting holes (perforations) along the length of end cap 602.

In one embodiment, the tips 602 may omit openings along the length of the tips, and the tips 602 are provided with openings only at the very ends so as to use the tips 602 for scalp treatment. In this way, two different formulations can be delivered from the tips 602 via the half-cylinder 604 and the half-cylinder 606.

In one embodiment, the ends of the end caps 602 include a flat or domed perforated disk having small openings 610 in the first half-cylinder 604 and openings 612 in the second half-cylinder 606. In one embodiment, instead of a disk, the half-cylinders 604 and 606 can be completely open at the end. Either of these constructions allows the formulation to be dispensed from the ends or along the length of the tips 602 or both the length and the ends of the tips 602.

By referring to the , in one embodiment, the end piece 702 is constructed by inserting a first small diameter hollow cylinder 704 into a second larger diameter hollow cylinder 706. In one embodiment, the first cylinder 704 is coaxial with the second cylinder 706. The first cylinder 704 may be referred to as the inner cylinder and the second cylinder 706 may be referred to as the outer cylinder. Here, although end cap 702 is in the shape of a "cylinder", according to this disclosure, an end cap can have any cross-sectional shape, including oblong, rectangular, square, or any other polygon.

In one embodiment, the first half-cylinder 704 and the second half-cylinder 706 are made of a conductive material such as metal. In one embodiment, the exterior of the first smaller cylinder 704 may be coated with an insulator. An insulator is optional if first cylinder 704 and second cylinder 706 cannot be electrically insulated from each other. In one embodiment, one of the first 704 or second 706 cylinder will be designated as a positive conductive terminal and the other cylinder will be designated as a negative conductive terminal.

In one embodiment, the first 704 and second 706 hollow chambers are made of a shape-memory or piezoelectric material that can be actuated by an electric current to control the direction of travel of the tips 702, or could be incorporated into this. material. In one embodiment, the chambers in a two-chamber construction could be made of shape-memory or piezoelectric materials that actuate in opposite directions from each other, allowing more and/or less actuation. around a central position depending on which chamber is activated, or could be incorporated into these materials. These materials can exist in the form of polymers, ceramics and alloys, for example. In one embodiment, the shape memory and piezoelectric materials can be fabricated as coils, and need not be hollow chambers. Coils can be effective in actuating bits vertically along the Z axis (i.e. in the axial direction of the coil). The electrical actuation of the shape memory and piezoelectric materials takes place via an alternating current or direct current power source, the positive and negative terminals of which are connected to the shape memory or piezoelectric material.

On the , inner cylinder 704 has first openings 1004 that appear on the outside of outer cylinder 706; however, openings 1004 may be connected by passing through outer cylinder 706, such that the openings are closed to outer cylinder 706, for example, by tubes that lead to inner cylinder 704. Outer cylinder 706 has second openings 1006 along a length of the exterior, the openings 1006 only being connected with the interior of the outer cylinder 706. In one embodiment, the inner cylinder 704 and the outer cylinder 706 are not coaxial with each other. the other, but the inner cylinder 704 can be placed against the inner wall of the outer cylinder 706, thus the openings of the inner cylinder 704 can only have to pass through the wall of the outer cylinder 706, which avoids having to connect the openings by tubes. It may be necessary to insert an insulator between the inner 704 and outer 706 cylinders to provide electrical insulation. In either of these constructions, two different formulations may be provided from end caps 702 via inner 704 and outer 706 cylinders. In one embodiment, apertures 1004, 1006 may be made by laser cutting number of holes (perforations) along the length of the end piece 702.

In one embodiment, end caps 702 include a flat or domed perforated disc having small openings 710 in first inner cylinder 704 and openings 708 in second outer cylinder 706. In one embodiment, instead of a disk, the inner and outer cylinders 704 and 706 can be completely open at the end. Either of these constructions allows the formulation to be dispensed from the ends or along the length of the tips 702 or both along the length and the ends of the tips.

In one embodiment, when the tips 602 and 702 are made of conductive materials, one of the cylinders 604 or 606 and 704 or 706 of each of the tips 602 and 702 can serve as a positive terminal and the other as a negative terminal for the conduction of electrical charges. This allows powering devices, such as LEDs or sensors.

There illustrates an end piece 1100, of construction similar to the end piece 602, consisting of a first electrically conductive hollow half-cylinder 1104 placed side by side with a second electrically conductive hollow half-cylinder 1106, but electrically insulated from the latter, wherein the first half-cylinder 1104 is designated as a positive or negative terminal, and the second half-cylinder 1106 is the opposite polarity terminal to that of the first half-cylinder 1104. An electrically insulating material or coating may be added between the first 1104 and second 1106 hollow half-cylinders to provide electrical insulation. A power source is connected to the first 1104 and second 1106 half-cylinders. In one embodiment, this makes it possible to place one or more light-emitting diodes 1102 at the end of the end piece or at other places which is/are powered by the two half-cylinders serving as terminals while being in contact with the positive and negative terminals.

There illustrates a hub 1200, similar in construction to hub 702, consisting of a hollow electrically conductive first inner cylinder 1204 positioned within or coaxially within a hollow electrically conductive second outer cylinder 1206, wherein the first inner cylinder 1204 is a positive or negative terminal, and the second outer cylinder 1106 is the opposite polarity terminal to that of the first cylinder 1204. An electrically insulating material or coating may be added between the first 1204 and second 1206 hollow cylinders to provide electrical insulation . A power source is connected to first inner cylinder 1204 and second outer cylinder 1206. In one embodiment, this allows one or more light emitting diodes 1202 to be placed at the end of the mouthpiece or other locations that is/are supplied by the two cylinders serving as terminals while being in contact with the positive and negative terminals.

In one embodiment, depending on the power of diodes 1102 and 1202, heat dissipation may be absorbed (heat dissipated) by the conductive material of cylinders 1104, 1106, 1204 and 1206.

In one embodiment, when the LEDs 1102 and 1202 are placed at the end of the tips, the LEDs can deliver more energy to the scalp than if they were placed at the base of the tips or when the light from the LEDs is delivered through a long fiber optic path.

In one embodiment, the LEDs 1102 and 1202 may be used for processing, formula curing, or device status indication (i.e. operating mode or power state). charge).

LEDs can be of any type, single wavelength (laser LED) or range of wavelengths. In one embodiment, LEDs 1102, 1202 are capable of producing light over a wide range of the electromagnetic spectrum. In one embodiment, phototherapy was used on the scalp to treat a skin problem. In one embodiment, phototherapy was used to stimulate hair follicle cells. The intensity of the light produced by the LEDs 1102, 1202 can be varied by controlling the current, for example.

In one embodiment, the LEDs 1102, 1202 include one or more Group III-V (GaAs) based LEDs that are capable of emitting electromagnetic radiation at wavelengths in the range from green visible light near infrared. In one embodiment, the LEDs 1102, 1202 include one or more Group III nitride blue LED solid-state emitters that are capable of emitting electromagnetic radiation at wavelengths in a range from ultraviolet to blue visible light.

In one embodiment, the output wavelength of the LEDs 1102, 1202 includes one or more gallium indium nitrogen (GaInN) LEDs that have an output wavelength of approximately 360 to 370nm. In other embodiments, LEDs 1102, 1202 emit electromagnetic energy in a wavelength range from about 200 nm to about 2000 nm, which includes wavelengths in the ultraviolet (about 350 nm) and near infrared (about 1200 nm).

By referring to the , the device 100 is represented schematically to illustrate the main systems.

In one embodiment, device 100 includes a power supply 128. Device 100 can be powered by alternating current (AC) or direct current (DC). In one embodiment, device 100 is powered by common household AC current which uses an electrical cord (not shown) to power device 100. In one embodiment, device 100 is powered by DC current, like a rechargeable battery that can be charged by plugging it into a household AC outlet. A DC-powered device 100 allows the device to be used without staying or standing near an electrical outlet. Device 128 is configured to power any of the systems requiring power, such as controller 148, dispenser 112, massage module 152, suction motor 114, camera 160, LEDs 1102, 1202 , and at ends 602, 702, 1100 and 1200.

In one embodiment, device 100 includes a formulation dispenser 112. In one embodiment, the formulation is stored in a replaceable or refillable cartridge 102. Cartridges 102 can be removed from device 100 either to be refilled or to be discarded and replaced with a new, full cartridge. Once emptied, a cartridge 102 can be replaced with a new cartridge filled with the same or different formulation or the cartridge can be refilled with the same or different formulation. As shown in , cartridge 102 is inserted through the rear of device 100. Cartridge 102 is connected to supply dispenser 112 with formulation for the scalp or hair. In one embodiment, device 100 may contain multiple cartridges, each cartridge being filled with a different formulation, which may be dispensed to perform different treatments and on different regions of the scalp and hair.

In one embodiment, cartridge 102 has a product identification tag 154 ( ) which may transmit instructions for the operation of device 100 based on the specific formulation contained in cartridge 102. Device 100 may include a product identification tag reader 156 ( ) capable of reading the product identification tag 154 and processing the encoded signals into instructions for operation and control of the device based on the particular formulation. Product identification labels include for example barcodes, 2D barcodes, RFID and others. The product identification tag is encoded with machine readable signals that convey the device settings for the particular formulation. Different formulations may have different device settings. For example, product identification labels may include setting the liquid dispenser to fine, medium, or coarse droplets. Product identification labels may also include dispenser pattern formation such as flat fan/cone, wide/narrow, solid/hollow, flow/mist. Product identification labels may also contain instructions for the operation of LEDs 1102, 1202. Different formulations may also be used to treat different regions of the scalp and hair. Different formulations can also be used to provide different scalp and hair treatments.

Dispenser 112 can dispense one or more formulations through tips 602, 702, 1100, 1200 as a fine mist or liquid or any form in between. In one embodiment, dispenser 112 includes a compressor, pump, or ultrasonic wave generator to generate a mist from the formulation. In the case of a dispenser 112 with a pump or a compressor, this dispenser 112 circulates the air or the formulation at a high speed which propels the formulation through fine openings. In the case of a pump or compressor dispenser, only one dispenser 112 may be placed in device 100. Then, the output from a pump or compressor dispenser 112 is routed through a duct system to each of the individual tips.

In one embodiment, the dispenser 112 is an ultrasonic wave nebulizer that generates a mist or vapor to dispense the formulation through individual nozzles. This has the advantage of a gentle dispersion of the formulation to reduce the amount of product wasted and improve coverage control. In one embodiment, the nebulizer uses an ultrasonic wave generator which is in contact with the formulation when the frequency of the ultrasonic waves is sufficient to produce the mist. An ultrasonic wave nebulizer also includes a "screen" nebulizer which has a vibrating screen just touching the surface of the formulation to create the mist. Both forms of ultrasonic wave nebulizer can use a piezoelectric element.

In one embodiment, both the ultrasonic wave generator and the vibrating screen nebulizer can use a piezoelectric material to generate vibrations in ultrasonic frequencies. In one embodiment, the same piezoelectric material that is used in the nebulizer can also be used to drive a haptic system. A haptic system can include a massage therapy system, but can also include any system that provides a sensory experience, such as heating and associated ultrasound therapies. Nebulizers can use the generation of frequencies above 1 MHz. A nebulizer capable of producing frequencies above 1 MHz can also be used to drive a haptic system to generate heat which can be used to treat the skin and scalp, either alone or in conjunction with the delivery of formulations. Some nebulizers can also use ultrasound frequencies below 1 MHz. In one embodiment, the nebulizer can be used to drive a haptic system to generate frequencies in a range designed to deliver therapeutic compounds to the skin and scalp in conjunction with dispensing formulations. There are therefore advantages to using the same piezoelectric material used in the nebulizer system in a haptic system.

In one embodiment, each of the endpieces may include a valve at the entrance to one or both chambers. The valve has an actuator that opens and closes it. Each valve of each mouthpiece can be actuated to open or close independently of the other valves of the other mouthpieces. By opening or closing the valve on each individual tip, the formulation can be controlled to flow only from certain tips in a controlled pattern, such as cone, flat fan, stream, multi-stream, pulse, and others. Additionally, having a valve to control dispensing from both chambers of a tip allows formulations to be controlled to flow from either or both chambers.

There is a schematic illustration showing the ends of end caps 602, 702, 1100, 1200. In one embodiment, the end caps are arranged in circular patterns of increasing diameter of small 908, medium 910, and large 912 diameters. In one embodiment, only the valves of the tips connected by one of the circles 908, 910 or 912 can be opened, which allows the formulation to be dispensed into a small cone 908, a medium cone 910 and a large cone 912, to cover small, medium and large areas of the scalp or hair. A controller is instructed to open the tips that are in a pattern to dispense the formulation according to the pattern and to close the tips that are not in the pattern. The actuation of the valves of each end piece is not limited to circular patterns alone. In one embodiment, the nozzle valves can be actuated in a linear pattern. The 914 line connects only the tips that would be open to dispense the formulation in a fan shape, while the tips that are not in the linear pattern would be kept closed. Any combination of individual tips can be selected to dispense formulation from only some tips, but not others, to achieve distinct patterns.

In one embodiment, dispenser 112 operates by depressing switch 106 (FIGS. 1 and 2). In one embodiment, the switch 106 is placed on the front cone of the upper part of the handle 104 to allow it to be operated with the index finger. In one embodiment, switch 106 is a momentary switch whose default position is the off position. A momentary switch should only be activated once, regardless of the duration of activation, to dispense a measured amount of formulation. Holding down switch 106 longer does not dispense more formulation than the pre-measured amount. In another embodiment, switch 106 is an on-off switch that starts and stops dispenser 112 based on the opening and closing of the switch.

In one embodiment, the valves on tips 602, 702, 1100 and 1200 are only actuated if the individual tip selected for dispensing is in contact with the skin. In one embodiment, end caps 602, 702, 1100 and 1200 are made of conductive materials, which allows the end caps to serve as contact sensors. In one embodiment, one of the cylinders from each of end caps 602, 702, 1100, and 1200 may serve as the positive terminal, while a second cylinder from the same or a different end cap serves as the negative terminal. In one embodiment, the impedance can be measured between any positive terminal of a tip and any negative terminal of a tip to determine if one or more individual tips are in contact with the scalp (skin). In one embodiment, the impedance can be measured between any positive terminal and the scalp (via a conductive return path to the handle)/ Impedance and contact determination is useful if the application requires contact with the scalp; for example, in a formula treatment and suction system, where the scalp is being treated and the suction may suck in the hair if the device is not operating directly on the scalp.

In one embodiment, the impedance measurement can also be used to calculate the level of hydration of the scalp at a specific point or over a more general region. In one embodiment, impedance can be measured from different tips to determine the level of scalp hydration over larger regions.

In one embodiment, a contact sensor 162 may be placed at the ends of the end caps. In one embodiment, contact sensor 162 includes open or short detectors or dielectric sensors. An open detector can refer to an open circuit detector to detect interrupted (open) continuity in an electrical transmission. A short circuit detector can refer to the detection of low electrical resistance. A dielectric sensor is also called a capacitance detector which can detect a change in dielectric permittivity. In one embodiment, the contact sensor 162 may be a sensor that detects the contact or lack of contact of an individual tip. In one embodiment, touch sensor 162 may indicate the amount of touch. An example of a contact sensor that can detect a quantity of contact is a piezoelectric sensor.

In one embodiment, device 100 includes a massage module 152. A massage module 152 is any circuit configured to control actuation of any number of individual tips 602, 702, 1100, and 1200 to vibrate . In this embodiment, the tips are individually controlled to vibrate relative to the oscillation of an entire brush head. The massage module circuit may be integrated into the 148 controller or be a separate component. The 152 massage module circuit controls the individual tips to actuate in one to three axes (XYZ). Activation of the tips to vibrate may be triggered by a switch 164. In one embodiment, each tip 602, 702, 1100, 1200 on brush head 140 has its own actuators for vibrating each individual tip in a three-axis. In one embodiment, the actuators may include shape memory or piezoelectric materials. As described above, conductive cylinders can be constructed from or incorporated into shape-memory or piezoelectric materials to drive vibrations.

By referring to the , one embodiment of a mouthpiece 602, 702, 1100, 1200 includes a first pair of actuators 1008, 1010, located on or incorporated into the barrel of the mouthpiece, at diametrically opposite locations the one another. The actuators 1008, 1010 extend axially over the length of the end piece. Actuators 1008, 1010 can be actuated one at a time to create side-to-side movement, such as in the X axis. of the tip, or incorporated therein, at locations diametrically opposite one another, and separated by ninety degrees from the actuators 1008, 1010. The actuators 1012, 1014 extend axially on the length of the tip. Actuators 1012, 1014 can be actuated one at a time to create side-to-side motion, such as in the Y axis. Actuators 1008, 1010, 1012, 1014 are coupled to the conductive substrate of the tip and utilize the transverse piezoelectric effect to produce contraction and bending movement in one direction when voltage is applied across the piezoelectric material and the substrate. In this way, side-to-side actuation is possible in both the X and Y axes.

For Z-axis vibration or up-and-down vibration, the top end of the bit can rest against a 1016 memory coil that can be actuated to vibrate up and down. Although one embodiment of the use of piezoelectric and shape memory materials is illustrated, other configurations are possible based on the disclosure. Piezoelectric materials can also be produced as tubes or stacked to cause up and down vibration, while shape memory alloys can be supplied as strips to cause side to side movement, bending or shear for vibration in the X and Y axes. Any combination of one or more piezoelectric or shape memory alloys can be used to vibrate the tips in one to three axes.

In one embodiment, device 100 includes a vacuum system 114 having a vacuum generating motor and a manifold 116. In one embodiment, a motor may be a variable speed motor. The vacuum motor 114 is connected to impeller vanes which enter a flow of air through one of the cylinders of the tips 602, 702, 1100 and 1200. The motor enters a flow of air through the end cap openings. The airflow can carry the used formulation along with any debris and sebum washed from the hair with the formulation, which is then captured by a collector 116, and the air is expelled from the device 100. In one embodiment , manifold 116 includes an annular vent located at the rear of device 100. The vent allows airflow to exit device 100, while used formulation and debris are trapped in manifold 116.

In one embodiment, the suction motor 114 is actuated by the multi-positional and multi-functional selector 110 ( ). A selector 110 can be a slide or dial switch with more than two positions, or a push button switch with more than two positions, for example. In one embodiment, an aspiration selector 110 includes settings for off and more than one aspiration speed setting, such as high and low speed. In one embodiment, the suction selector 110 is placed on the rear side of the lower part of the handle 104 to allow it to be operated with the thumb, for example. The suction selector 110 can be isolated for uninterrupted suction. Light emitting diodes 118 can be used to illuminate the selected position. Selector 110 remains in the selected position until moved to another position. In one embodiment, a momentary switch may replace the selector, the momentary switch default position being the off position, and the momentary switch must be pressed to start the vacuum motor. In one embodiment, device 100 includes both a vacuum selector and a momentary switch, wherein the momentary switch is used to operate the vacuum motor when depressed and at the speed setting on the selector.

In one embodiment, device 100 includes diagnostic module 160. The diagnostic module circuitry may be in controller 148 or be a separate module. In one embodiment, diagnostic module 160 has circuitry configured to link the absorption of light of a certain wavelength to a skin or hair problem. In one embodiment, skin and hair problems related to hair density, tone and dryness can be identified by measuring light absorption. The diagnostic module 160 establishes a diagnosis of the skin and hair based on images from a camera 158. The camera 158 can be located at the end of the tips or be located on the device 100. In one embodiment , camera 158 may be a solid-state integrated circuit that converts light to images, such as a charge-coupled device (CCD) or pixel sensors. In one embodiment, the diagnosis of skin and hair problems is determined by selective filtering, by wavelength-selective absorption within multiple layers of photodetectors, or by any other method. In one embodiment, a spectral absorption feature for a given chromophore in skin manifests as dark spots in an image recorded by camera 158. Absorbance and emission characteristics of various skin conditions are stored in the memory of the controller, and the diagnostic module 160 compares the images to characteristics indicative of various skin problems. When diagnostic module 160 determines a match to a skin or hair problem, diagnostic module 160 may send instructions through controller 148 to dispense a certain formulation or apply a certain wavelength of light via LEDs 1102 , 1202.

In one embodiment, device 100 includes a controller 148. In one embodiment, controller 148 is a digital device. Controller 148 may include one or more hardware circuits attached on a printed circuit board, or all of the circuits may exist on a single chip. Controller 148 may include at least one microprocessor core and memory. The hardware can be designed for use in small, hand-operated devices. The microprocessor may be implemented as multiple processors working cooperatively in parallel and in series to execute instructions according to pre-programmed logic.

Instructions for controlling dispenser 112, massage module 152, suction 114, diagnostic module 160 can be stored in the memory of the controller. A memory is any type of computer-readable medium or computer-based storage device that one or more microprocessors can access and use to execute instructions. Instructions can be stored in fast memory such as EEPROM, Flash memory, RAM, or other programmable non-volatile memory.

Controller 148 communicates with dispenser 112, massage module 152, suction 114, and diagnostic module 160 to make decisions and control device output based on inputs received from tips 602, 702, 1100, 1200 themselves, LEDs 1102, 1202, contact sensor 162 and camera 158.

In one embodiment, controller 148 may also interpret information provided on cartridges 102 to provide instructions to dispenser 112 that are formulation specific. Controller 148 can control the opening and closing of all tips 602, 702, 1100 and 1200 to allow formulation to be dispensed by individually selected tips in a pattern.

In one embodiment, the controller 148 has circuitry for determining the impedance between the terminals of one or more tips to determine which tips are in contact with the skin and which tips are not in contact with the skin. with the skin. The controller 148 can then open the valves of the tips that are in contact and close the valves that are not in contact, and authorize the distributor to proceed with dispensing the formulation through the tips in contact with the skin.

In one embodiment, controller 148 uses impedance to determine if the tips are in contact with the scalp. In one embodiment, controller 148 may disable suction 114 or not allow suction to be activated when it is determined that one or more tips are not in contact with the scalp.

In one embodiment, monitor 148 may use an impedance measurement to determine the hydration of one or more regions of the scalp.

In one embodiment, controller 148 receives signals from contact sensor 162 to determine whether or not the tips are in contact with the skin.

In one embodiment, controller 148 has circuitry to control valve opening of only the tips that will produce a selected spray pattern.

In one embodiment, controller 148 has circuitry to control the amount of formulation that is dispensed from the dispenser.

In one embodiment, controller 148 has circuitry to determine which tips are operated to vibrate and in which axis.

In one embodiment, controller 148 has image processing circuitry to convert camera signals and perform spectral analysis.

In one embodiment, controller 148 is configured to power one or more of the tips.

In one embodiment, controller 148 has circuitry to activate LEDs 1102 and 1202 based on predetermined instructions. For example, some formulations may require the application of light in a certain wavelength. Controller 148 can be used to control LEDs 1102 and 1202 to provide phototherapy treatment. Controller 148 has instructions for determining the wavelength and power to be applied for phototherapy.

In one embodiment, controller 148 has circuitry to control the amount of formulation that is dispensed from dispenser 112. For example, controller 148 can activate a pump or compressor for a predetermined amount of time that is running. correlation with a specific amount of formulation. In one embodiment, dispenser 112 uses a positive displacement pump, therefore the volume moved for each rotation of the pump can be measured with an encoder. When the rotations of the pump are equal to the volume of formulation to be dispensed, the controller 148 can deactivate the pump.

In one embodiment, controller 148 has circuitry configured to control dispenser 112 to dispense a measured volume of formulation through one or more of the tips only when controller 148 detects that the tips are in contact with the scalp.

In one embodiment, controller 148 has circuitry configured to diagnose scalp and hair issues related to hair density, tone, and dryness using a camera or sensor. impedance.

In one embodiment, controller 148 has circuitry configured to control LEDs to output a certain wavelength and power to apply light processing, to facilitate camera imaging, or to be used to harden the formulations.

In one embodiment, controller 148 has circuitry configured to control the vibration of individual selected earmolds.

In one embodiment, controller 148 has circuitry configured to control the dispensing of a measured amount of formulation through selected individual tips only upon sensing that the tips are in contact with the scalp. /the skin.

The use of the device 100 is instinctive, the general shape of the device 100 is familiar to users of other devices for the hair, such as a hair dryer, which allows a simple and intuitive use of the device 100. The device 100 can improve the current use of aerosol dry shampoos. Device 100 contrasts with an aerosol can that sprays more than necessary and produces a large cloud that covers an area well beyond the user's head. Additionally, device 100 has end caps that allow for increased functionality.

Although embodiments have been illustrated and described, it will be appreciated that various modifications may be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims (10)

Hair and scalp treatment device (100), comprising:
a dispenser (112) connected to a cartridge (102), wherein the cartridge includes a formulation;
a plurality of tips (602, 702, 1100, 1200) on the device, wherein the tips have at least one opening (610, 612, 904, 906) for dispensing the formulation; And
a controller (148) configured to individually control the dispensing of the formulation through one or more nozzles. Apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the controller (148) controls the opening of the tips to dispense the formulation in a pattern (908, 910, 912) and closes the tips which are not in the pattern. A device (100) according to claim 1, wherein the controller (148) is configured to actuate the dispensing of the formulation only through tips which are detected to be in contact with the skin. A device according to claim 1, wherein the controller (148) is configured to dispense the formulation through selected tips, but not through all of the tips, the selected tips being arranged to dispense the formulation in a pattern (908, 910, 912) cone or fan pattern or both cone and fan patterns. A device according to claim 1, further comprising a camera (158) and a diagnostic module (160), wherein the diagnostic module is configured to diagnose a scalp or hair problem based on images received from the camera . A device according to claim 1, further comprising one or more LEDs 51102, 1202° on the device, wherein the LEDs are controlled to output a selected wavelength and power. Device according to claim 1, in which:
the end caps include actuators (1008, 1010, 1012, 1014) that vibrate the end caps in a first axis;
the controller (148) is configured to individually control the vibration of the tips; And
the actuators comprise a shape memory alloy or a piezoelectric material or a combination thereof. Device according to Claim 7, in which at least one end piece (1008, 1010, 1012, 1014) comprises a second actuator for vibrating the end pieces in a second axis. Device according to claim 7, wherein at least one end piece comprises a third actuator configured to vibrate the end pieces in a third axis (Z). Device according to claim 7, in which:
the controller (148) is configured to select which of the plurality of tips to vibrate;
the tips are fixed to a brush head (140), statically connected to the device; And
the tips vibrate without the brush head oscillating.