JP2022176958A - System including brush, hair dryer, and client device to assist user to achieve the best drying and styling performance - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a system to provide a feedback communication between a hair dryer and a grooming tool.

SOLUTION: Provided is a system including a hair dryer 110, a hairbrush 150, and a client device. The hairbrush 150 senses a characteristic of at least one of the user's hair and the hair dryer 110, and transmits information back to the hair dryer 110 on the basis of the sensed characteristic. The hair dryer 110 updates at least one setting for temperature control, air flow speed, and air flow shape at the hair dryer 110, on the basis of the received sensed characteristic. The client device is configured to communicate with the hair dryer 110 and provide feedback to the user regarding the user's usage of at least one of the hair dryer 110 and the hairbrush 150 on the basis of at least partly the sensed characteristic captured by the hairbrush 150.

SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

COPYRIGHT: (C)2023,JPO&INPIT

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application is the subject of U.S. Application No. 15/721,286 and U.S. Application No. 15/721,320, both September 29, 2017, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein. filed on the same day), claiming their advantages.

This disclosure describes a system that provides a connection for feedback communication between a hair dryer and a grooming appliance (eg, hair styling appliance, brush, hairbrush, hair styling appliance, styling brush, comb, etc.).

According to an embodiment, there is provided a system comprising a hair dryer and a grooming implement (e.g., hair styling implement, brush, hairbrush, hair styling implement, styling brush, comb, etc.), wherein the grooming implement combs the user's hair and the hair dryer. and configured to transmit information back to the hair dryer based on the sensed characteristics.

According to an embodiment, a system is provided comprising a hair dryer and a hairbrush, wherein the hairbrush senses at least one characteristic of the user's hair and the hair dryer and transmits information back to the hair dryer based on the sensed characteristics. configured to

According to an embodiment, the hairbrush further includes a temperature/humidity sensor and the sensed characteristic is temperature or humidity sensed at the hairbrush.

According to an embodiment, the hairbrush further includes a moisture sensing circuit and the sensed characteristic is a moisture level or dryness level of the user's hair sensed by the hairbrush.

According to an embodiment, the hairbrush further includes a force sensor and the sensed feature is the level of invasiveness of the user's use of the hairbrush.

According to an embodiment, the hairbrush further includes an imaging device configured to capture a thermal image of the user's hair or scalp region, wherein the sensed feature is a thermal scan or thermal infestation level of the user's hair or scalp region. is.

According to an embodiment, the hairbrush further includes a motion sensor and the sensed feature is the user's brushing motion while using the hairbrush.

According to an embodiment, the hair dryer is configured to update at least one setting in the hair dryer based on the received sensed characteristics.

According to an embodiment, the at least one setting updated in the hair dryer includes at least one of temperature control, airflow velocity, and airflow shape.

According to an embodiment, the hair dryer is configured to output a warning indicator based on sensed features received from the hairbrush.

According to an embodiment, the hair dryer is configured to output a recommendation of at least one of a hair drying technique or regimen, a hair brushing technique or regimen, and a product recommendation based on sensed features received from the hairbrush. be.

According to an embodiment, there is provided a method performed by a system including a hair dryer and a hairbrush, the method comprising detecting at least one characteristic of a user's hair and the hair dryer with the hairbrush; and transmitting the information back to the hair dryer.

According to an embodiment, a system is provided comprising a hair dryer, a grooming appliance (e.g., hair styling appliance, brush, hairbrush, hair styling appliance, styling brush, comb, etc.), and a client device, wherein the grooming appliance A client device configured to detect at least one characteristic of the hair and the hair dryer and transmit information based on the detected characteristic back to the hair dryer, wherein the client device communicates with the hair dryer and is captured by the grooming appliance. based at least in part on the sensed characteristics detected, to provide feedback to the user regarding the user's usage of at least one of the hair dryer and the grooming appliance.

According to an embodiment, a system is provided that includes a hair dryer, a hair brush, and a client device, wherein the hair brush senses at least one characteristic of a user's hair and the hair dryer, and provides information to the hair dryer based on the sensed characteristic. The client device, configured to transmit back, communicates with the hair dryer and provides information to the user regarding the user's usage of at least one of the hair dryer and the hairbrush based at least in part on the sensed features captured by the hairbrush. configured to provide feedback to

According to an embodiment, the client device outputs evaluation information regarding the user's use of at least one of a hair dryer and a hairbrush and outputs guidance information regarding how to use the styling tools to achieve the target hair health. configured to

According to one embodiment, the guidance information is image, video, or audio data using styling tools to achieve the desired result.

According to an embodiment, a client device is configured to receive user information regarding physical characteristics of a user and output guidance information based on the received user information.

According to one embodiment, the output evaluation information and guidance information is based on measurement data received during a single, continuous session of the user using the styling tool.

According to one embodiment, the output evaluation information is based on measurement data received over a predetermined time period that includes multiple sessions of the user using the styling tool.

According to an embodiment, the client device is configured to run a discovery protocol that causes the client device and the hair dryer to identify each other and negotiate one or more pre-shared keys, the hair dryer and the client device identifying the pre-shared keys to exchange encrypted and anonymous information.

According to an embodiment, the discovery protocol instructs the client device and the hair dryer, depending on at least one of a particular type of hair dryer, a particular type of hairbrush, and a particular detected attachment of the hair dryer or hairbrush, to: configured to allow exchange of treatment plan information;

According to an embodiment, there is provided a method performed by a system including a hair dryer, a hairbrush, and a client device, wherein the hairbrush detects at least one characteristic of a user's hair and the hair dryer; transmitting the information back to the hair dryer and communicating with the hair dryer by the client device and user use of at least one of the hair dryer and the hairbrush based at least in part on the sensed features captured by the hairbrush; and providing feedback to the user regarding the status.

A more complete appreciation of the present embodiments and their many attendant advantages may be better understood by reference to the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. can be easily obtained.

1 illustrates a system including a hairbrush and a client device, according to an embodiment; 1 illustrates a hardware configuration of a hair dryer, according to an embodiment; 1 illustrates a hardware configuration of a hairbrush, according to an embodiment; 4 illustrates the processes occurring between and at each of the hair dryer and hairbrush, according to an embodiment; 4 illustrates the processes occurring between and at each of the hair dryer and hairbrush, according to an embodiment; 4 illustrates the processes occurring between and at each of the hair dryer and hairbrush, according to an embodiment; 1 illustrates a system including a client device and a hair dryer, according to an embodiment; 1 illustrates an example client device, according to an embodiment. 1 illustrates a system for facilitating optimal performance of a hair dryer including a client device and at least one external server, according to an embodiment; 4 illustrates a process performed by a client device, according to an embodiment;

Blow-drying (the use of a hair dryer with a brush to condition the hair while drying it) is commonly used to treat hair disorders such as dryness, dryness, brittleness, loss of color, and ultimately, May cause hair breakage. Studies have shown that hair damage increases with temperature (temperature increases when the distance between the hair dryer and the hair is decreased or when a concentrator nozzle is used) and drying duration.

By monitoring brushing patterns and hair damage, applicants of the present invention can set up an automatic smart feedback loop between the two devices by wirelessly connecting the instrumented brush/comb and blow dryer. are aware of The system can limit hair damage, provide feedback to the user, coach the user, improve his or her brushing technique, and achieve the best drying/styling performance. It can also provide recommendations for personalized or best-fit products to improve drying and styling performance and reduce/limit hair damage.

Embodiments of the present invention have the following objectives.
Monitor hair damage, brushing pattern/movement Control hair dryer temperature and airflow Provide feedback (live or non-live) and guide user on brushing/drying technique Improve brushing technique - user achieve the best drying/styling performance/results Prevent/limit hair damage Provide personalized or adapted product and hairstyle recommendations Provides improved ergonomics for improved performance

FIG. 1 shows system 100, according to an embodiment. System 100 includes a hair dryer device 110 and a brush device 150 . Hair dryer 110 performs the functions of a conventional hair dryer, such as generating and emitting hot air from outlet 112 . The brush 150 includes bristles 154 arranged around the axis of the brush (a "circular" hairbrush type). However, additional known hairbrush types can be used as well.

Additionally, the hair dryer device 110 and the brush device 150 include additional components. For example, hair dryer device 110 further includes temperature controller 114 and actuator 116 . A temperature controller 114 controls and regulates the temperature of the air emitted by the hair dryer. Actuators control the shape of the airflow pattern and the speed of the airflow. The actuator can be a moving mechanical part that can move in the airflow to modify the shape of the airflow. Such airflow control is understood in the art, as evidenced by EP1779745A1, which is incorporated herein by reference.

The hair dryer may further include a proximity sensor 118 which is preferably located near the outlet 112 of the hair dryer. The proximity sensor can be an optical sensor such as an infrared sensor as understood in the art. However, other examples such as capacitive sensors, ultrasonic sensors or Doppler sensors may be employed as well.

In some embodiments, the hair dryer device 110 is configured to change at least one setting in the hair dryer based on the sensed characteristics received. In an embodiment, hair dryer device 110 is configured to dynamically modulate at least one setting in the hair dryer based on the sensed characteristics received.

The hair dryer may further include a printed circuit board (PCB) 120 containing communication and control circuitry, such as a wireless RF communication interface for wireless communication with an external device (such as the brush device 150).

The brush device may further include a PCB 180 of the brush device itself, including communication and control circuitry, such as a wireless RF communication interface for wireless communication with external devices (such as hair dryer 150). The PCB may also hold motion detectors such as accelerators/gyrometers.

The brush device may also include hair moisture sensors and temperature sensors. Hair and humidity sensors are known and understood in the art.

As shown in FIG. 1, there may be a wireless machine-to-machine feedback loop between the brush device 150 and the hair dryer 110 facilitated by communication between wireless RF communication interfaces embedded within each device. In such a feedback loop, the brush can sense the temperature when the hair dryer is in operation and the humidity level of the user's hair and provide such feedback to the hair dryer. Based on this information, the hair dryer can, for example, adjust the resistance of the hair dryer's heating element, by adjusting the fan speed, and/or by adjusting the shape of the mechanical element that controls the airflow shape. , the temperature and/or shape and/or velocity of the airflow may be adjusted.

FIG. 2 shows an illustration of an electrical block diagram of hardware components of a hair dryer, according to an embodiment. Power from power supply 204 is controlled by microcontroller/processor 203 . It will be appreciated that the electrical block diagram may be modified to accommodate other configurations in accordance with the principles disclosed herein.

In one example, communication interface (I/F) 205 may include circuitry and hardware for communicating with client device 120 . Communication interface 205 may include a network controller such as the BCM43342 Wi-Fi, Frequency Modulation, and Bluetooth combo chip available from Broadcom to interact with a network. Hardware can be designed for reduced size. For example, processor 203 may be a CPU as understood in the art. For example, the processor may be the APL0778 available from Apple Inc., or may be other processor types as will be recognized by those skilled in the art. Alternatively, the CPU may be implemented on an FPGA, ASIC, PLD, or using discrete logic circuits, as will be recognized by those skilled in the art. Further, the CPU may be implemented as multiple processors working in parallel and cooperatively to perform the instructions of the inventive processes described above.

In some embodiments, the hair dryer includes a user interface 206, which can be in the form of input buttons on the housing of the tool, or the hair dryer is in the form of a touch sensitive display such as a capacitive or resistive touch screen display. obtain.

In some embodiments, the hair dryer includes an output indicator 202 that can be in the form of a light (such as an LED light), an indicator on a touch screen, or an audible output through a speaker.

In one embodiment, the hair dryer includes memory 207 that stores software for controlling the hair dryer or for storing user data or other information.

In an embodiment, the hair dryer includes a position/motion sensor 208 that can also detect the orientation of the hair dryer as it is held by the user, and the hair dryer likewise detects the travel and motion path of the hair dryer. can be detected. In some embodiments, the position/motion sensor is at least one or a combination of a geomagnetic sensor and an acceleration sensor. For example, a 3-axis geomagnetic sensor ascertains the direction of the geomagnetic field, or in other words, the geomagnetic vector Vt, given the current orientation of (the housing of) the styling tool that houses the 3-axis geomagnetic sensor. The 3-axis accelerometer captures the direction of gravity, or in other words, the gravitational vector G, given the current orientation of (the housing of) the styling tool that houses the 3-axis accelerometer at rest. The gravitational vector G coincides vertically downward. The gravity vector G can similarly be decomposed into Xs, Ys, and Zs axis components.

Alternatively or additionally, a gyroscope, which is a sensor that detects angular velocity about three axes Xs, Zs, and Ys (roll, pitch, and yaw) and is capable of detecting rotation of an object can be used. In addition, the geomagnetic sensor can grasp the direction in which the object faces, based on the geomagnetic vector described above.

A hair dryer may include an actuator circuit 209 that is used to control the shape of the mechanical element that controls the airflow shape.

The hair dryer includes the proximity sensor 118 described above.

The hair dryer includes a heat control circuit 210, which is used to control heat by varying the resistance of the heating elements of the hair dryer described above.

The hair dryer further includes a fan control 211 which is used to vary the speed of the blower of the hair dryer as described above.

FIG. 3 shows an illustration of an electrical block diagram of hardware components of a hairbrush, according to an embodiment. Similar to the hair dryer described above, the hairbrush includes a microcontroller/processor 303, a power supply 304, a communication interface 305, a user interface 306, a memory 307, and a position/motion sensor 308.

The hairbrush may also include sound sensing circuitry 309, which may include a microphone that detects the dryness of the user's hair based on daily energy and spectral sound variations.

The hairbrush may also include moisture sensing circuitry 311 . This circuit may be similar to that described in US Application No. 13/112,533 (US Publication No. 2012/0291797 A1), which is incorporated herein by reference. Alternatively, the moisture sensing circuit may rely on Hall effect sensors that detect changes in the magnetic field, and such changes are sensitive to moisture level.

The hairbrush may also include a force sensor 311 which may be in the form of a load cell placed between the head and handle.

The hairbrush may also include an ambient temperature/humidity sensor 312, described above, that detects localized temperature or humidity near the hairbrush.

Additionally, the hairbrush may include conductive pin quills 313 embedded within the hairbrush to detect whether the hair is wet or dry, or to detect contact with the user's hair.

The hairbrush may also include an imaging unit 314, which is a camera placed on the outer surface of the brush facing the user's head or hair while the user is using the hairbrush. obtain. The imaging unit may optionally have thermal imaging capabilities for detecting thermal characteristics of the user's hair. The imaging unit may also be equipped with a lighting unit (such as an LED light) to assist the imaging process.

As noted above, the brush and hair dryer are equipped with a means of communicating with each other, and the hair dryer adjusts temperature and airflow in response to indicators of hair damage/damage and/or styling results selected by the user. An adaptively calibrated control system is provided. Thus, intelligence and algorithms embedded or transmitted within the brush and/or hair dryer can translate sensor recordings into adjustments in the hair dryer.

FIG. 4A shows the overall process that takes place between a hair dryer and a hairbrush. As one process illustrated in FIG. 4A, communication pairing 401 occurs between two devices when they are within acceptable wireless communication range of each other. Such pairing depends on the type of communication protocol used, and such protocols are well understood in the art. A user may use the hairbrush, and during such use the hairbrush performs any of several sensing actions such as those described above (step 402). The sensing action need not occur while the hair dryer is being used at the same time, the action can be initiated and completed at any time based on receiving user input to initiate/end such sensing. can be done. Sensor records obtained by sensing operations may be stored in memory (step 403) and/or communicated immediately to the hair dryer (step 404).

As shown in Figure 4A, the hair dryer stores the sensor recordings received from the hair dryer and processes and analyzes the sensor recordings (step 405). The hair dryer then makes adjustments to the hair dryer based on the processing and analysis of the sensor recordings (step 406).

In FIG. 4A, the communication pairing need not occur before the user performs a sensing operation with the hairbrush at 402, and the communication pairing can occur any time before the hairbrush transmits sensor recordings to the hairbrush.

Additionally, the hairbrush need not necessarily process and analyze the sensor recordings shown in step 405 . In this situation, the hair dryer may transmit sensor recordings to an external client device (such as a smart phone or user computer) to control the operation of sensor recording processing and analysis, which is described in more detail below. Additionally, as indicated in optional step 403', the hairbrush may perform at least some processing and/or analysis of the sensor recordings before transmitting the information to the hairbrush.

FIG. 4B shows an algorithm that may be performed by a hairbrush, according to an embodiment. At step 410, the hairbrush detects a trigger to initiate sensing operations. The trigger may be a deliberate user input at the hairbrush user interface to initiate one or more sensing actions. Triggers can also be received from the hair dryer itself. For example, if a communication pairing has been established between a hair dryer and a hairbrush, the hair dryer may transmit a signal to the hairbrush to initiate a sensing operation. Transmission of such a signal may be associated with a user activating the blowing action of a hair dryer, or transmission of such a signal may detect that a hair dryer is within range of the user's head or hairbrush. It may be based on the proximity sensor of the dryer.

In step 411 , sensing operation(s) are performed in step 411 . The types of sensing actions performed by the hairbrush are described in detail above. At step 412, the sensor data obtained from the sensing motion is stored in the memory of the hairbrush as the sensor data is obtained. At step 413 the sensor data is transmitted to the hair dryer. Optionally, at optional step 414, the hairbrush may perform at least some processing and/or analysis of the sensor data before transmitting the sensor data to the hairbrush. Then, in step 413, the results of such processing and/or analysis will also be transmitted to the hair dryer together with the sensor data (or even in the absence of sensor data). Such transmission may occur when data is accumulated after an entire period of time; such transmission may occur periodically; such transmission may occur based on user input at the hairbrush user interface; may occur based on a request signal received from the

FIG. 4C shows an algorithm that may be performed by a hair dryer, according to an embodiment. At step 420, the hair dryer receives the sensor data, as explained above, this can be done when the data is accumulated in the hairbrush after a full period of time, which can occur periodically, this can occur when the hairbrush or this may occur based on a request signal received from the hair dryer, which may occur by user input at the hair dryer, or this may occur based on a request signal received from the hair dryer It may be based on an event such as the user turning off the blow action (while not turning off the power). At step 421 the sensor data is processed or analyzed, which is described in more detail below. In step 422, the hair dryer makes adjustments to the hair dryer settings based on the processed/analyzed sensor data, which are described in more detail below.

As explained above, at step 421 the sensor data is processed or analyzed by the hair dryer (or another device as described below). The particular type of analysis depends on the type of detection that has occurred and the goals of the analysis.

For example, the user's brushing pattern and brushing motion when using a hairbrush, either alone or in combination with a hair dryer, can be monitored using force/power sensors, accelerometers and gyroscopes, magnetic compasses, contact sensors, and proximity sensors. The determination may be made based on a combination of data obtained from the sensors. The following brushing patterns and movements can be determined from this data.
- User pulling force - Twisting and winding of hair around the brush - Local brushing motion - Proximity of hairbrush to hair dryer

Sensor data is also obtained from the sensed ambient temperature and humidity and the temperature and humidity of hair in contact with the brushes, conductivity sensors, thermal cameras, microphones, contact sensors, proximity sensors, and force/actuation force sensors. Based on the combination of data obtained, it can be used to assess hair characteristics/injury/invasion or risk level for damaging hair. The following hair features/injuries/invasions or risk levels can be determined from this data.
・Temperature and humidity of hair ・Cumulative heat attack level (temperature or hair damage danger level x period)
Increased hair damage risk level associated with hair humidity Level of hair gloss estimated from image analysis of images obtained by camera Level of fading estimated from image analysis of images obtained by camera Pasa level

Embodiments of the present invention are directed to smart hair dryer devices and systems that teach users how to achieve any style at home. In one embodiment, the system connects a hair dryer with the client device. In some embodiments, the client device can receive input regarding the user's needs, provide feedback on how to achieve a certain look, and correct the user's technique while using styling tools.

FIG. 5A shows system 500 including hair dryer 110 and client device 510 . In one embodiment, hair dryer 110 communicates with client device 501 via wireless signals 520 . In an embodiment, client device 510 is configured to run a software application, or set of software modules, to receive communications from and send communications to hair dryer 110 . In one example, the software application can send a protocol or target profile to the hair dryer 110, as well as receive data from the hair dryer 110 for real-time usage tracking.

FIG. 5B shows different examples of client devices 120 including mobile device 522 , wearable electronic device 524 , television or magic mirror 526 , network router 528 and personal computer 529 .

Wireless signal 520 may be any suitable signal such as an electromagnetic signal, including WiFi, Bluetooth, short-range wireless communication, or any other signal such as optical and acoustic. Each client device, including the appliance, communicates with each other via an Internet connection, either via an 802.11 wireless connection to a wireless Internet access point, or via a physical connection to an Internet access point, such as via an Ethernet interface. can communicate. Each connected device is similarly capable of wireless communication with other devices, such as via a Bluetooth connection or other wireless means.

FIG. 5C is a diagram representing an example system 550 that facilitates optimal performance of the hair dryer 110, according to one example. System 550 includes at least a hair dryer and a client device. Optionally, system 550 may further include one or more external servers 542 implemented in communication with system 550 via the Internet as part of a cloud computing environment. One or more external servers 542 may store user data, products such as hair products, hair dryers or brush accessories, protocols and routines, tutorials, and other third party services, according to certain examples.

A user interface or client device can display a tutorial on how to use a hair dryer. The user interface can create and download protocols for regimens or routines. A user interface can guide and track usage and compare tracked usage to protocols, regimens, and routines. The user interface can calculate a score based on tracked usage. The user interface may store the score and tracked usage of the hair dryer in memory of the client device. The user interface can be used to make purchases for any product related to hair dryers. For example, a hair dryer may be used with a combination of styling products or chemical compositions used to condition the user's hair, and the client device may output recommendations regarding the particular styling product or composition to be used. , and the steps in the process at which they will be used are based on the desired results entered by the user.

As a first step, the client device gathers information about the user's desired outcome. In one example, a user may use a client device to browse a database of images showing various hairstyles. In another example, the user may initiate a keyword search for the client device to find the desired appearance. A client device may store search results locally or connect to an external system or server to access a database or search results.

After the user finds the desired appearance achieved using the hair dryer, the user may access tutorials for using the hair dryer to achieve the desired appearance. Tutorials can be in text, still image, video, or audio-only format.

In addition to using tutorials, the user can connect the client device 510 with a hair dryer through a wireless connection (such as a Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connection) and receive real-time feedback while using the hair dryer. Or, it can store hair dryer usage for later reporting or feedback.

For example, a hair dryer can communicate which settings are currently being used on the hair dryer.

For example, while using a hair dryer, a motion sensor on the hair dryer can output the detected motion of the hair dryer as feedback to the client device. The client device is configured to output instructions to the user to compare the detected motion to predefined motion data or to make corrections to provide real-time performance results to the user.

In another example, the temperature sensed by the hairbrush and communicated to the hair dryer can be communicated to the client device. When the detected temperature exceeds a predefined threshold, the client device is configured to compare the detected temperature to predefined temperature information to provide a warning to the user.

In one example, a timer on the hairbrush may provide measured time information to the client device. The client device is configured to compare the measured time to the target time to provide an output to the user regarding the remaining duration of the given action using the hair dryer or the target time has passed. When configured to provide a warning to the user. The target time may depend on the routine, the style to be achieved, and the current step in the process, which may have different durations for different steps. A client device is configured to receive input from a user to create a customer profile based on the user's personal characteristics. For example, the client device may ask the user questions such as "Is your hair dyed or undyed?", "Is your hair dark or light?", and "Is your hair straight or curly?" configured to provide Customer profiles can be used to select specific tutorials or sets of data to be used when measuring performance from hair dryers and brushes. The client device may recommend certain hairstyles or avoid recommending or suggesting certain hairstyles depending on the evaluated hair type, level of damage, or other parameters.

The client device may also have camera functionality that can be used to provide input to the customer profile. For example, the camera may take an image of the user's hair to determine if the desired appearance is possible, or to make further recommendations to the user based on the characteristics or color of the hair or skin. can.

Alternatively, the client device can interface with known spectography tools to analyze the user's hair. Alternatively, the client device can interface with known chemical measurement tools to determine chemical and structural properties of the user's hair. In some embodiments, the client device is configured to maximize user personalization and security. The client device may alert the user if the user's hair type setting is not recommended. The client device may ask if the user's hair is colored (including bleached), highlighted, keratinized, or detangled.

The client device may receive moisture or porosity or hair level (which may be assessed by the stylist or by a moisture sensor on the styling tool) as input.

The client device may provide a warning if the hair is not ready to receive additional heat immediately, such as when a moisture sensor in a hairbrush detects excessive dryness.

The client device may provide instructions to pre-curse the user's hair before applying heat. Different levels of temperature are appropriate for different levels of hair texture, so the client device may advise whether the initial temperature is appropriate for the style the user is trying to achieve.

The client device may have automatic settings or controls from the phone, such as providing automatic temperature control from the client device.

A client device is configured to upload data about a user to an external system or server (such as a cloud-based system). Such data may include user profiles, usage of styling tools, or performance results when using styling tools. The client device may also provide options to keep user data anonymous.

Additionally, the circuitry of the client device is configured to operate a discovery protocol that enables the client device and the hair dryer to identify each other and negotiate one or more pre-shared keys, the discovery protocol further comprising: Allows hair dryers and client devices to exchange encrypted and anonymous information. The discovery protocol may further allow the client device and hair dryer to exchange treatment planning information in response to specific types of hair dryers or hairbrushes, or based on specific detected accessories.

The client device can use camera functionality to provide shared features, and users can upload photos taken before and/or after using the styling tool. Uploaded photos can be used to receive feedback from professional hairstylists or other users. In some embodiments, the uploaded photos may be uploaded directly to the social media platform.

FIG. 6 shows a flowchart of a method performed by a client device based on the features described above. At step 601, the client device receives input from the user regarding the user's physical characteristics. At step 602, the client device receives input from the user regarding the selection of the desired appearance to be achieved using the hair dryer and brush. At step 603, the client device outputs guidance information to achieve the user's desired appearance using the hair dryer and brush based on the user's selections and the user's physical characteristics. At step 604, after the user begins to use the hair dryer and/or brush, the client device receives feedback from the styling tools regarding the user's usage of the styling tools (such as built into hair dryers and brushes and those described above). receive feedback from various sensors At step 605, the client device outputs a user action indication based on the comparison of the feedback information received from the hair dryer and the objective information. Alternatively, the client device may output corrective information (such as adjusting hair dryer and/or brush movement, or adjusting heat/airflow/speed settings) based on the feedback information. Alternatively, the client device may output warning information to the user (such as warnings related to sensed temperature, moisture, or elapsed time) based on the feedback information.

The principles, representative embodiments, and modes of operation of the present disclosure are set forth in the foregoing description. However, the aspects of the disclosure that are intended to be protected are not to be construed as limiting the particular embodiments disclosed. Moreover, the embodiments described herein are to be considered illustrative rather than restrictive. It is recognized that variations and modifications may be made by others and equivalents employed without departing from the spirit of this disclosure. Accordingly, it is expressly intended that all such modifications, variations and equivalents fall within the spirit and scope of the claimed disclosure.

Claims (36)

a hair dryer and
a hairbrush;
The system, wherein the hairbrush is configured to detect at least one characteristic of the user's hair and the hair dryer and transmit information back to the hair dryer based on the detected characteristic. the hairbrush further comprising a temperature/humidity sensor;
2. The system of claim 1, wherein the sensed characteristic is temperature or humidity sensed at the hairbrush. The hairbrush further includes a moisture sensing circuit,
2. The system of claim 1, wherein the sensed characteristic is a moisture or dryness level of the user's hair sensed with the hairbrush. the hairbrush further comprising a force sensor;
2. The system of claim 1, wherein the detected characteristic is a level of invasiveness of the user's use of the hairbrush. the hairbrush further comprising an imaging device configured to capture a thermal image of the user's hair or scalp region;
2. The system of claim 1, wherein the sensed feature is a thermal scan or thermal intrusion level of the user's hair or scalp area. the hairbrush further comprising a motion sensor;
2. The system of claim 1, wherein the detected feature is a user's brushing gesture while using the hairbrush. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the hair dryer is configured to update at least one setting in the hair dryer based on the sensed characteristics received. 8. The system of claim 7, wherein the at least one setting updated in the hair dryer includes at least one of temperature control, airflow velocity, and airflow shape. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the hair dryer is configured to output a warning indicator based on the sensed characteristics received from the hairbrush. The hair dryer is configured to output a recommendation of at least one of a hair drying technique or regimen, a hair brushing technique or regimen, and a product recommendation based on the sensed characteristics received from the hairbrush. The system of claim 1. A method performed by a system comprising a hair dryer and a hairbrush, comprising:
sensing at least one characteristic of a user's hair and the hair dryer with the hairbrush;
transmitting information by the hairbrush back to the hair dryer based on the sensed features;
The above method, comprising the hairbrush further comprising a temperature/humidity sensor;
12. The method of claim 11, wherein sensing comprises sensing temperature or humidity at the hairbrush. The hairbrush further includes a moisture sensing circuit,
12. The method of claim 11, wherein the sensing comprises sensing a moisture or dryness level of the user's hair sensed with the hairbrush. the hairbrush further comprising a force sensor;
12. The method of claim 11, wherein the sensing comprises sensing a level of invasiveness of the user's use of the hairbrush. the hairbrush further comprising an imaging device configured to capture a thermal image of the user's hair or scalp region;
12. The method of claim 11, wherein the sensing comprises performing a thermal scan of the user's hair or scalp area or sensing a level of thermal aggression. the hairbrush further comprising a motion sensor;
12. The method of claim 11, wherein the sensing comprises sensing a user's brushing motion while using the hairbrush. 12. The method of claim 11, further comprising updating at least one setting in the hair dryer based on the sensed characteristics received by the hair dryer. 18. The method of claim 17, wherein the at least one setting updated in the hair dryer includes at least one of temperature control, airflow velocity, and airflow shape. 12. The method of claim 11, further comprising outputting, by the hair dryer, a warning indicator based on the sensed characteristics received from the hairbrush. outputting, by the hair dryer, a recommendation of at least one of a hair drying technique or regimen, a hair brushing technique or regimen, and a product recommendation based on the sensed characteristics received from the hairbrush. Item 12. The method according to Item 11. a hair dryer and
a hairbrush and
a client device;
the hairbrush is configured to sense at least one characteristic of a user's hair and the hairdryer and to transmit information back to the hair dryer based on the sensed characteristic;
The client device communicates with the hair dryer and provides feedback to the user regarding the user's usage of at least one of the hair dryer and the hairbrush based at least in part on sensed features captured by the hairbrush. A system configured to The client device outputs evaluation information regarding the user's use of the at least one of the hair dryer and the hairbrush and outputs guidance information regarding how to use styling tools to achieve a target hair health. 22. The system of claim 21, wherein the system comprises: 23. The system of claim 22, wherein the guidance information is image, video, or audio data for using the styling tools to achieve a desired result. 23. The system of claim 22, wherein the client device is configured to receive user information regarding physical characteristics of the user and output the guidance information based on the received user information. 23. The system of claim 22, wherein the output evaluation information and the guidance information are based on measurement data received during a single consecutive session of the user using the styling tool. 23. The system of claim 22, wherein the output evaluation information is based on measurement data received over a predetermined time period that includes multiple sessions of the user using the styling tool. the client device is configured to activate a discovery protocol that causes the client device and the hair dryer to identify each other and negotiate one or more pre-shared keys;
22. The system of claim 21, wherein the hair dryer and the client device are configured to exchange encrypted and anonymous information using the pre-shared key. The discovery protocol instructs the client device and the hair dryer, depending on at least one of a particular type of hair dryer, a particular type of hairbrush, and a particular detected attachment of the hair dryer or the hairbrush, to: 28. The system of claim 27, configured to allow exchange of treatment plan information. A method performed by a system comprising a hair dryer, a hairbrush, and a client device, comprising:
sensing at least one characteristic of a user's hair and the hair dryer by the hairbrush and transmitting information back to the hair dryer based on the sensed characteristic;
The client device communicates with the hair dryer and provides feedback to the user regarding the user's usage of at least one of the hair dryer and the hairbrush based at least in part on sensed features captured by the hairbrush. and
The above method, comprising Outputting, by the client device, evaluation information regarding the user's use of the at least one of the hair dryer and the hairbrush, and outputting guidance information regarding how to use styling tools to achieve a target hair health. 30. The method of claim 29, further comprising: 31. The method of claim 30, wherein the guidance information is image, video, or audio data for using the styling tool to achieve the desired result. 31. The client device of claim 30, wherein the client device is further configured to include, by the client device, receiving user information of the user and outputting the guidance information based on the received user information. the method of. 31. The method of claim 30, wherein the output evaluation information and the guidance information are based on measurement data received during a single consecutive session of the user using the styling tool. 31. The method of claim 30, wherein the output evaluation information is based on measurement data received over a predetermined time period that includes multiple sessions of the user using the styling tool. further comprising operating, by the client device, a discovery protocol that causes the client device and the hair dryer to identify each other and negotiate one or more pre-shared keys;
30. The method of claim 29, wherein the hair dryer and the client device exchange encrypted and anonymous information using the pre-shared key. The discovery protocol instructs the client device and hair dryer to take action in response to at least one of a particular type of hair dryer, a particular type of hairbrush, and a particular detected attachment of the hair dryer or the hairbrush. 34. The method of claim 33, wherein planning information is exchanged.

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