JP7437690B2 - hair cutting device - Google Patents

Description

The present disclosure generally relates to a hair cutting device, and more particularly, to a hair cutting device that cuts hair by applying light to the hair.

Patent Document 1 describes a device configured to cut hair using laser light. The device described in Patent Document 1 includes a laser light source and a fiber optical system. The laser light source is configured to generate laser light having a wavelength selected to target a predetermined chromophore to effectively cut hair. The fiber optic has a proximal end, a distal end, an outer wall, and a cutting region disposed toward the distal end and extending along a portion of the side wall. The fiber optic system receives laser light from a laser light source at a proximal end, directs the laser light from the proximal end toward the distal end, and directs the laser light from the cutting region toward the hair when the cutting region contacts the hair. emit.

Special table 2016-514491 publication

In the configuration described in Patent Document 1, the optical output may be reduced due to aging, abnormality, dirt, etc. that may occur in the laser light source or the fiber optical system, for example. Therefore, in order to put a hair cutting device that uses light into practical use, there is a need to improve the reliability of the light output.

The present disclosure has been made in view of the above reasons, and an object of the present disclosure is to provide a hair cutting device with improved reliability regarding light output.

A hair cutting device according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a device main body corresponding to a grip, and a hair cutting member corresponding to a head attached to the device main body. The hair cutting member includes a light emitting module, a cover, a sensing area, and a sensing part. The light emitting module has an optical waveguide including a core portion, and cuts the hair by emitting light to the hair protruding from the skin. The cover is configured to cover the light emitting module. The detection area is disposed within the cover and passes target light resulting from light transmitted within the optical waveguide. The detection unit detects the target light within the detection area.

According to the present disclosure, there is an advantage that a hair cutting device with improved reliability regarding light output can be provided.

FIG. 1 is a partially cutaway front view of a hair cutting device according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a sectional view of the same hair cutting device as above, and shows a state in which the hair cutting member is attached to the main body of the device. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the hair cutting device as described above, in which the hair cutting member as described above is separated from the main body of the device. FIG. 4 is a rear view of the main parts of the hair cutting device as described above, particularly showing the hair cutting member as described above and the receptacle portion in the main body of the device as described above. FIG. 5A is a schematic cross-sectional view of the hair cutting member same as above. FIG. 5B is a schematic front view of the above hair cutting member partially broken. FIG. 6A is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the configuration of essential parts of the above hair cutting device. FIG. 6B is an enlarged view of the main part of FIG. 6A. FIG. 7A is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the operation of the above hair cutting device when cutting hair, particularly the scene before emitting light to the hair. FIG. 7B is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the operation of the above hair cutting device when cutting hair, particularly the scene in which light is emitted to the hair. FIG. 7C is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the operation of the above hair cutting device when cutting hair, particularly the scene after hair cutting. FIG. 8A is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the operation of the above hair cutting device when cutting hair, particularly the scene before emitting light to the hair. FIG. 8B is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the operation of the above hair cutting device when cutting hair, particularly the scene in which light is emitted to the hair. FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a control circuit of the hair cutting device as described above. FIG. 10A is a graph regarding the light output in the skin contact state and the non-contact state in the above hair cutting device. FIG. 10B is a graph regarding the voltage change of the detection unit in normal and abnormal conditions of the above hair cutting device. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an operation example 1 of the above hair cutting device. FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a second operation example of the above hair cutting device. FIG. 13 is a schematic external view of a first modification of the above hair cutting device. 14A to 14D are schematic cross-sectional views of a second modification of the hair cutting device described above.

(1) Overview Hereinafter, an overview of the hair cutting device 1 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 5B. The hair cutting device 1 is a device that cuts hair 91 by applying light to the hair 91 (see FIG. 6A). The hair 91 to be cut by the hair cutting device 1 is, for example, a human "beard" or the like, but is not particularly limited, and may be any hair that protrudes from the skin 92 of a person (for example, body hair on arms or legs, etc.). )including. In FIG. 6A, hair 91 and skin 92 are shown with imaginary lines (two-dot chain lines).

In short, unlike a general "razor" or "scissors" that cut the hair 91 with a physical "blade", the hair cutting device 1 applies light energy to the hair 91 instead of the "blade". Then, the hair 91 is cut. Therefore, the hair cutting device 1 is less likely to cause damage to the skin 92 etc. around the hair 91 than a general "razor" or "scissors", and is also less likely to cause physical deterioration such as blade spillage. Hard to occur.

The hair cutting device 1 according to this embodiment includes a hair cutting member 3 and a device main body 2, as shown in FIGS. 1 to 3. Here, as an example, the hair cutting member 3 corresponds to the head of the hair cutting device 1, and the device main body 2 corresponds to the grip. Further, as an example, the hair cutting member 3 can be detachably attached to the device main body 2. However, in the hair cutting device 1 of the present disclosure, it is not an essential configuration that the hair cutting member 3 is removable from the device main body 2, and the hair cutting member 3 and the device main body 2 are integrally assembled. It does not have to be removable.

The hair cutting device 1 according to the present embodiment includes a light emission module M1, a cover 30, a detection area D2, and a detection section D1, as shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 and FIG. 5B. Here, as an example, the light emission module M1, the detection section D1, and the detection area D2 are provided in the hair cutting member 3, which is the head of the hair cutting device 1.

The light emitting module M1 has an optical waveguide 4 including a core portion 41, as shown in FIG. The light emitting module M1 cuts the hair 91 by emitting light to the hair 91 protruding from the skin 92.

The cover 30 is configured to cover the light emitting module M1. The detection region D2 is arranged inside the cover 30, and the target light OB1 (see FIG. 5B) caused by the light transmitted in the optical waveguide 4 passes through the detection region D2. The detection unit D1 detects the target light OB1 within the detection area D2.

When the hair cutting member 3 is attached to the device main body 2, light generated by the light source 21 (see FIG. 2) provided in the device main body 2 is transmitted to the tip surface of the optical waveguide 4 (light receiving surface 40A: FIG. 2). (see), the light is transmitted through the optical waveguide 4. In this embodiment, as an example, the light source 21 is a laser light source, and the light transmitted within the optical waveguide 4 is a laser light.

In this embodiment, as described above, since the hair cutting device 1 includes the detection section D1 and the detection area D2, the detection result of the detection section D1 can be used, for example. For example, the light output of the hair cutting device 1 (the light emitted from the light emitting module M1 ) may decrease. By using the detection result of the detection unit D1, it is possible to take measures regarding such a decrease in light output (feedback control such as automatic stopping of the light source 21 and light output correction, user notification, etc.). As a result, there is an advantage that a hair cutting device 1 with improved reliability regarding light output can be provided.

Further, the hair cutting method according to the present embodiment includes a light emission step and a detection step. In the light emitting step, the hair 91 protruding from the skin 92 is cut by emitting light from the light emitting module M1 to the hair 91 protruding from the skin 92. In the detection step, the target light OB1 is detected in the detection region D2 through which the target light OB1 caused by the light disposed inside the cover 30 and transmitted in the optical waveguide 4 passes. Here, the hair cutting method comprising the light emitting step and the sensing step described above is used on the hair cutting device 1.

Also in this configuration, the detection result of the detection unit D1 can be utilized because the hair cutting method includes the detection step. As a result, there is an advantage in that a hair cutting method with improved reliability regarding light output can be provided.

(2) Details Hereinafter, details of the hair cutting device 1 according to the present embodiment will be explained with reference to FIGS. 1 to 12.

In the following, as an example, three axes, the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis, which are perpendicular to each other, are set. In particular, the axis along the length of the optical waveguide 4 is defined as the "X-axis", and the opening of the cover 30 of the hair cutting member 3 is defined as the "X-axis". The axis along the facing direction when the portion 31 and the skin 92 face each other is defined as the "Y axis". The X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis are all virtual axes, and the arrows indicating "X," "Y," and "Z" in the drawings are only shown for explanation. , none of which involve substance. Furthermore, these directions are not intended to limit the directions in which the hair cutting device 1 is used. The direction of the optical axis C1 (see FIG. 2) of the optical waveguide 4 is along the X-axis.

(2.1) Definition "Hair" in the present disclosure includes various hairs 91 protruding from the skin 92, that is, various hairs extending from the skin 92, such as human hair, beards, eyebrows, and shins. Includes various types of body hair such as hair, nose hair, or ear hair. Furthermore, for example, various hairs 91 protruding from the skin 92 of mammals such as dogs and cats, and other animals are also included in the term "hair" as used in the present disclosure. That is, the hair cutting device 1 according to the present embodiment is a device that cuts these hairs 91. Furthermore, the term "skin" as used in the present disclosure includes artificial skin and the like. In this embodiment, as an example, a case will be described in which the hair 91 to be cut by the hair cutting device 1 is hair protruding from human skin 92, particularly the "beard" of an adult male. That is, the hair 91 to be cut by the hair cutting device 1 is hair that grows from the skin 92 of a person's face. Human skin 92, including facial skin 92, is also referred to as "skin."

Furthermore, "cutting" the hair 91 in the present disclosure includes cutting the hair 91 in general, and includes, for example, cutting the hair 91 at the root (that is, shaving the hair), and cutting the hair 91 to an appropriate length. This includes straightening the hair and cutting only the tips of the hair. Therefore, the "hair cutting device" referred to in the present disclosure includes, for example, a "shaver" or "hair cutting device" that is a device for shaving the hair 91, and a "hair cutting device" that is a device for cutting hair to an appropriate length. Includes trimmers, clippers, scissors, etc. Furthermore, "cutting" the bristles 91 in the present disclosure does not only mean cutting the bristles 91 into two on a substantially planar cutting surface, but also cutting the bristles 91 by damaging the cut portion of the bristles 91. This also includes breaking at some parts. In this embodiment, as an example, a case will be described in which the hair cutting device 1 is a device (shaver) suitable for cutting the hair 91 (beard) to be cut at the root (that is, shaving the hair).

Moreover, "laser light" as used in the present disclosure means light generated by stimulated emission (Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation). Examples of the light source 21 that generates laser light include a semiconductor laser (LD: Laser Diode) that utilizes semiconductor recombination light emission. Compared to light emitted by light emitting diodes (LEDs), laser light has higher coherence, higher output (power density), higher monochromaticity (single wavelength), and less directivity. It has the characteristic of being highly sensitive.

Furthermore, the term "optical waveguide" as used in the present disclosure refers to an optical member that guides the light along a desired path by passing the light therethrough. A specific example of an optical waveguide is an optical fiber having a core and a cladding having mutually different refractive indexes and covering the core with the cladding. Optical fibers can guide light along a desired path by passing the light into the core by utilizing total reflection of light at the interface between the core and the cladding. Here, the optical waveguide is not limited to a transmission path through which communication signals (optical signals) pass, but refers to any optical member that guides light along a desired path.

Furthermore, "holding" as used in the present disclosure means that one object supports the other object so that the two objects continue to maintain their positional relationship with each other. Here, the relative positional relationship between the two objects may change somewhat, and one object and the other object do not need to be firmly fixed. That is, the holding member 5 may hold the optical waveguide 4 in such a manner that the positional relationship between the optical waveguide 4 and the holding member 5 changes somewhat.

Moreover, the "refractive index" as used in the present disclosure is a value obtained by dividing the speed of light in a vacuum by the speed of light in a medium (more precisely, the phase speed). The refractive index is basically determined depending on the substance; for example, the refractive index of air is "1.0003" and the refractive index of water is "1.3334". Even for the same substance, the refractive index may differ depending on the wavelength of incident light; however, in this disclosure, unless otherwise specified, the refractive index is indicated for light with a wavelength of 404.7 nm (H-line of mercury). shall be.

Moreover, "power density" as used in the present disclosure means light intensity per unit area (1 cm ² ). The unit of power density is “kW/cm ² ” or “J/(s·cm ² )”. Even if there is variation in the distribution of light intensity in the cross section of the optical waveguide 4, the light intensity passing through the optical waveguide 4 is divided by the cross-sectional area of the core portion 41 of the optical waveguide 4, so that it is averaged over the entire cross-section of the core portion 41. The average power density is determined. In this disclosure, unless otherwise specified, the average power density determined in this manner will be referred to as "power density."

(2.2) Overall Configuration First, the overall configuration of the hair cutting device 1 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3, FIG. 6A, and FIG. 6B.

As described above, the hair cutting device 1 includes the hair cutting member 3 and the device main body 2.

The hair cutting member 3 includes a light emission module M1, a ferrule 71 as a connection member, a holder part H1, a sensor part S1, a detection part D1, and a detection area D2. A portion of each of the light emitting module M1 and the ferrule 71 is inserted into the holder portion H1.

The hair cutting member 3 further includes a fixing member F1, an adhesive member G1, a cover 30, and a fixing cap 34. The light emitting module M1 has an optical waveguide 4 and a holding member 5. The holding member 5 holds the optical waveguide 4 with a portion of a core portion 41 (described later) of the optical waveguide 4 exposed. The light emitting module M1 further includes a fixing block 32.

The device body 2 includes a receptacle portion 81 to which the ferrule 71 of the hair cutting member 3 is mechanically connected (as a connection target portion), a light source 21, an optical system 22, and a case 20. The light source 21 generates light that is introduced into the core section 41. Optical system 22 is arranged between light source 21 and receptacle section 81 . Case 20 houses a light source 21 and an optical system 22.

The optical waveguide 4 has a light emitting section 40 (see FIGS. 6A and 6B), and outputs light from the light emitting section 40 when the light generated by the light source 21 is input thereto. The hair cutting device 1 cuts the hair 91 by inputting light generated by the light source 21 into the optical waveguide 4 and emitting it from the light emitting part 40 of the optical waveguide 4 to the hair 91.

More specifically, the hair cutting device 1 employs a value close to the refractive index of the hair 91 to be cut as the refractive index of the light emitting section 40. As a result, when the bristles 91 are in contact with the light emitting part 40, light leaks from the light emitting part 40 to the bristles 91, and the bristles 91 are cut by the energy of this light. On the other hand, in a state where the hair 91 is not in contact with the light emitting part 40 and only air (refractive index: 1.0) is in contact with the light emitting part 40, the refractive index between the light emitting part 40 and the air is Due to the difference, the amount of light leaking from the light emitting section 40 can be suppressed to a small level.

By the way, in this embodiment, the hair cutting member 3 corresponds to the head of the hair cutting device 1, and the device main body 2 corresponds to the grip. The case 20 of the device main body 2 is, for example, formed into a prismatic shape having a length along the X axis.

The hair cutting member 3 is long. The hair cutting member 3 has a length along the X axis. The cover 30 of the hair cutting member 3 houses the light emitting module M1 therein, as shown in FIG. 5A. The cover 30 also has an opening 31 . The cover 30 is configured to cover the light emitting module M1. The opening 31 exposes at least a portion of the core portion 41 to the outside. However, in the hair cutting device 1 of the present disclosure, it is not essential that the cover 30 has the opening 31, and the opening 31 may be omitted as appropriate.

The detection area D2 of this embodiment is arranged inside the cover 30. Particularly, as an example here, the detection region D2 is arranged in a space on one end side of the cover 30 to which light transmitted in the optical waveguide 4 is transmitted in the transmission direction A2 (see FIGS. 2 and 3). In other words, a space for the detection region D2 is formed inside the cover 30 at a corner on the positive side of the X axis. Here, as an example, the detection area D2 is located inside the cover 30 on the positive side of the X-axis with respect to the opening 31. Further, the detection section D1 is also arranged inside the cover 30. Here, as an example, the detection unit D1 is arranged within the detection area D2.

For example, the cover 30 is formed into an elongated rectangular tube shape having a length along the X axis. In this embodiment, the ferrule 71 of the hair cutting member 3 and the receptacle part 81 of the case 20 are connected, so that the hair cutting device 1 has an approximately I-shape as a whole when viewed from one side of the Z axis. It makes up the appearance of the

In other words, the hair cutting member 3 and the case 20 are each long. The hair cutting device 1 has a stick-like form as a usage form. The stick-like form is a form in which the longitudinal direction of the hair cutting member 3 and the longitudinal direction of the case 20 are aligned in one direction when the ferrule 71 is coupled to the receptacle part 81.

In this embodiment, as an example, the case 20 and the cover 30 are both made of synthetic resin.

In this way, the hair cutting device 1, which has a generally I-shaped appearance as a whole, is used in the same way as a "straight-blade razor." In other words, when cutting (here, "shaving") the hair 91 (here, "beard") to be cut, the user can cut the hair by grasping the grip of the hair cutting device 1, that is, the case 20, with one hand. Grip the device 1. In this state, the user brings the head of the hair cutting device 1, that is, one surface of the hair cutting member 3 in the Y-axis direction into contact with the user's skin 92, and moves the hair cutting member 3 along the skin 92 in the Z-axis direction. By doing so, the light emitting section 40 of the hair cutting member 3 cuts the hair 91. At this time, the user cuts the hair by bringing the surface of the hair cutting member 3 facing in the negative direction of the Y axis into contact with the skin 92 and moving the hair cutting member 3 in the positive direction of the Z axis. The bristles 91 located forward in the direction of movement of the member 3 (head) (that is, in the positive direction of the Z axis) are cut.

The hair cutting device 1 may have another form in addition to a stick-like form (approximately I-shaped form) as a usage form. For example, the device main body 2 has a shaft portion rotatable within a predetermined angular range near the receptacle portion 81, so that the hair cutting member 3 and the case 20 can change from a substantially I-shaped shape to a substantially L-shaped shape. It may also be deformable into a letter-shaped form. In this case, the user can selectively change the usage form of the hair cutting device 1 between a stick-like form and an L-like form.

In addition to the receptacle section 81, light source 21, optical system 22, and case 20, the device main body 2 includes a control circuit 6, a battery 23, a fan 24, a heat sink 25, an operation section 26, and a notification section 27 (see FIG. 9). It also has more.

The control circuit 6, optical system 22, battery 23, fan 24, and heat sink 25 are all housed in the case 20. The operation unit 26 is provided on one surface of the case 20 (the surface facing in the negative direction of the Y-axis). The notification unit 27 includes, for example, an indicator light (light source) such as an LED, and a lamp cover that covers the indicator light, and is provided on one surface of the case 20, for example. The optical waveguide 4 included in the hair cutting member 3 faces the optical system 22 in the case 20 by connecting one end of the light-receiving surface 40A (see FIG. 2) to the receptacle part 81 together with the ferrule 71. It is arranged like this.

The light source 21 generates light that is input to the optical waveguide 4 by converting electrical energy into optical energy. In this embodiment, the light source 21 is a laser light source. That is, the light generated by the light source 21 is laser light generated by stimulated emission. Here, the light source 21 is composed of a semiconductor laser that utilizes semiconductor recombination light emission.

Further, the wavelength of the light generated by the light source 21 is 400 nm or more. That is, the light source 21 generates a laser beam having a peak wavelength or a dominant wavelength on the longer wavelength side than 400 nm. In this embodiment, the wavelength of the light generated by the light source 21 is 700 nm or less. For example, if the light has a wavelength in the range of 400 nm or more and 450 nm or less, it can be expected to have a bactericidal effect on acne bacteria and the like present on the skin 92. Moreover, if the wavelength of the light is within the range of 450 nm or more and 700 nm or less, an activation effect on the skin 92 can be expected.

The control circuit 6 is a circuit that controls at least the light source 21. The control circuit 6 supplies power to the light source 21 to cause the light source 21 to emit light (light up). Furthermore, the control circuit 6 switches the light source 21 on and off, adjusts the output (brightness, wavelength, etc.) of the light source 21, and the like. Control circuit 6 includes a printed wiring board (substrate) and a plurality of electronic components mounted on the printed wiring board. In addition to the light source 21, the control circuit 6 also controls the fan 24, the operating section 26, and the like. The control circuit 6 will be explained in detail in the section "(2.6) Control circuit".

The optical system 22 is arranged between the light source 21 and the receptacle part 81 and guides the light from the light source 21 to the optical waveguide 4. Optical system 22 includes multiple lenses. In the example of FIG. 2, the optical system 22 includes a first lens 221, a second lens 222, a third lens 223, and a fourth lens 224. However, FIG. 2 does not strictly show the shape and arrangement of each lens, but only schematically shows the optical system 22.

The battery 23 functions as a power source that supplies power for driving the control circuit 6, the light source 21, the fan 24, and the like. In this embodiment, as an example, the battery 23 is a secondary battery such as a lithium ion battery (LIB) that can be charged and discharged.

The fan 24 is a cooling fan for cooling the light source 21. Specifically, the fan 24 promotes heat dissipation from the heat sink 25 by generating an airflow that passes through the heat sink 25 within the case 20 .

The heat sink 25 is made of a material with relatively high thermal conductivity, such as aluminum. The heat sink 25 is thermally coupled to the light source 21 and mainly radiates heat from the light source 21.

The operation unit 26 receives a user's operation and outputs an electric signal to the control circuit 6 in accordance with the user's operation. In this embodiment, as an example, the operation unit 26 includes at least one mechanical switch such as a push switch or a slide switch.

Under the control of the control circuit 6, the notification unit 27 changes the detection result of the detection unit D1 by switching the emitted color of the indicator light (light source) or switching the lighting state from continuous lighting to blinking lighting. Notify the user of the corresponding information.

The opening 31 (see FIG. 1) is arranged on the surface of the cover 30 that contacts the user's skin 92 (that is, the surface facing the negative side of the Y-axis). The opening 31 is formed in a rectangular shape having a length along the X axis. Through this opening 31, the space inside the cover 30 (accommodation space SP1: see FIG. 5A) is connected to the space outside.

A portion of the optical waveguide 4, the holding member 5, and the fixing block 32 are housed within the cover 30. By attaching the hair cutting member 3 to the device main body 2, the light receiving surface 40A of the optical waveguide 4 comes close to and faces the fourth lens 224 of the optical system 22 within the case 20 of the device main body 2. In short, by attaching the hair cutting member 3 to the device main body 2, the optical waveguide 4 is optically coupled to the light source 21 via the optical system 22. As a result, the light from the light source 21 is propagated through the optical waveguide 4 (core portion 41). In this embodiment, in addition to the core part 41, the holding member 5 and the fixing block 32 are also exposed to the outside of the cover 30 through the opening 31.

The optical waveguide 4 is an optical member that guides the light from the light source 21 along a desired path by passing the light generated by the light source 21. In this embodiment, as an example, the optical waveguide 4 is an optical fiber. This optical waveguide 4 has a core portion 41 and a cladding portion 42, and the cladding portion 42 covers at least a portion (here, a portion) of the core portion 41. Further, the core portion 41 is eccentrically arranged on the outer circumferential side of the cladding portion 42 . Here, as an example, the core part 41 is arranged on the outer peripheral part of the clad part 42, and a part of the core part 41 is exposed from the outer peripheral part. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 6B, a part of the circumferential region of the core portion 41 is eccentrically arranged so as to protrude outward from the outer peripheral surface 420 of the cladding portion 42.

The optical waveguide 4 extends from one end surface (light receiving surface 40A) to the other end surface (terminating surface 40B) in the X-axis direction, with a part of the region in the circumferential direction of the core portion 41 being outside the outer peripheral surface 420 of the cladding portion 42. It is arranged eccentrically so that it protrudes from the center.

The optical waveguide 4 may further include a protective sheath (resin-made covering member) that protects the outer periphery of the cladding portion 42 . That is, the optical fiber used as the optical waveguide 4 of this embodiment has a double structure of a core part 41 and a cladding part 42, but it has a triple structure by adding a protective sheath located outside the cladding part 42. You may. However, it is preferable that the protective sheath is removed from at least the portion of the optical waveguide 4 that is exposed through the opening 31 so that the core portion 41 and the cladding portion 42 are exposed.

The holding member 5 is a member that holds the optical waveguide 4. Here, the holding member 5 contacts and holds a part of the optical waveguide 4 in the longitudinal direction. Hereinafter, as shown in FIG. 3, the optical waveguide 4 will be explained by dividing it into three regions (first region 401, second region 402, and third region 403) along the X-axis direction.

The first region 401 of the optical waveguide 4 is a region that is held in contact with the holding member 5, as shown in FIG. The light emitting section 40 is within the first region 401 .

The second region 402 and the third region 403 of the optical waveguide 4 are regions that protrude from the holding member 5 in the negative direction of the X-axis. The third region 403 is a region bonded and fixed within the ferrule 71 with the adhesive member G1. The third region 403 is a region positioned by the ferrule 71.

The second region 402 is a region between the first region 401 and the third region 403, and is interposed between the holding member 5 and the ferrule 71. The second region 402 is a curved portion. The second region 402 is fixed within the holder portion H1 by a fixing member F1. That is, the optical waveguide 4 is arranged such that the first region 401 and the third region 403 are "shifted" in the Y-axis direction. Therefore, regarding the optical axis of the core portion 41, the optical axis C1 in the first region 401 (see FIG. 2) and the optical axis in the third region 403 are non-coaxial with each other.

The holding member 5 is fixed to a fixed block 32. The holding member 5 is fixed to the fixed block 32 by appropriate means such as adhesion, welding, pasting, or connection using a fastening member (screws, etc.). Thereby, the optical waveguide 4 (first region 401) is indirectly fixed to the fixed block 32 via the holding member 5.

The fixed block 32 is fixed to the cover 30. The fixed block 32 is made of synthetic resin (or may be made of metal), and is formed into a prismatic shape having a length along the X axis. The fixing block 32 is fixed to the cover 30 by appropriate means such as adhesion, welding, pasting, or connection using a fastening member (screws, etc.). The holding member 5 is fixed to the fixed block 32 as described above. Therefore, the optical waveguide 4 (first region 401) is indirectly fixed to the cover 30 via the holding member 5 and the fixing block 32.

Here, in the hair cutting member 3, the light emitting part 40 of the optical waveguide 4, the holding member 5, and the fixing block 32 are all exposed to the outside of the cover 30 through the opening 31. Specifically, the fixed block 32 is arranged along the length (X-axis) of the opening 31 in the cover 30. The holding member 5 is fixed to a surface of the fixed block 32 facing forward in the direction of movement of the hair cutting device 1 (positive direction of the Z-axis). Moreover, the fixed block 32 and the holding member 5 are arranged so as to secure a gap on the front side in the direction of movement of the hair cutting device 1 (hair cutting member 3) in the lateral direction (Z-axis direction) of the opening 31. It is arranged closer to the rear side in the direction of movement of the cutting device 1 (that is, on the negative side of the Z axis).

Further, the fixed block 32 and the holding member 5 are arranged so that the surface facing the negative direction of the Y-axis is flush with the surface of the cover 30 facing the negative direction of the Y-axis. Further, as shown in FIG. 6A, the optical waveguide 4 (light emitting section 40) is fixed to the surface of the holding member 5 facing forward in the direction of movement of the hair cutting device 1 (positive direction of the Z axis). .

Although not shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the hair cutting device 1 includes components such as a charging circuit for the battery 23 or a display section for displaying the operating status of the hair cutting device 1. It may further include.

(2.3) Hair cutting member (2.3.1) Structure of hair cutting member Next, a more detailed structure of the hair cutting member 3 will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 6B.

FIG. 1 is a view (front view) of the hair cutting device 1 viewed from the negative side in the Y-axis direction in the positive direction. FIG. 4 is a view (rear view) of the hair cutting member 3 separated from the receptacle portion 81 of the device main body 2 when viewed from the positive side in the Y-axis direction in the negative direction.

FIG. 5A is a cross-sectional view (a cross-sectional view taken along the line AA in FIG. 5B) of the cover 30 that accommodates the light emitting module M1, taken along the YZ plane at approximately the center in the longitudinal direction. FIG. 5B is a view (front view) of the cover 30 that houses the light emitting module M1 viewed from the negative side in the Y-axis direction in the positive direction. FIG. 6A is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the structure around the optical waveguide 4 and the holding member 5 in the hair cutting member 3. FIG. 6B is an enlarged view of the main part of FIG. 6A.

In this embodiment, the hair cutting member 3 includes the light emitting module M1, the ferrule 71, the holder part H1, the fixing member F1, the adhesive member G1, the cover 30, the fixing cap 34, and the sensor. It includes a section S1, a detection section D1, and a detection region D2.

The light emitting module M1 includes an optical waveguide 4, a holding member 5, and a fixing block 32. In particular, the optical waveguide 4 is arranged to cut the hair 91 by emitting light to the hair 91 protruding from the skin 92 .

(2.3.2) Optical Waveguide The optical waveguide 4 of the light emitting module M1 has the light emitting section 40 that cuts the hair 91 by emitting light to the hair 91, as described above. In this embodiment, the optical waveguide 4 is an optical fiber having a core portion 41 and a cladding portion 42 .

The cladding part 42 covers the periphery of the core part 41 except for a part from the light receiving surface 40A to the terminal end face 40B. Here, both the core portion 41 and the cladding portion 42 have relatively high light transmittance. However, the core part 41 and the cladding part 42 have different refractive indexes, and the refractive index of the core part 41 is larger than that of the cladding part 42. With this configuration, the light incident on the core section 41 from the light receiving surface 40A is caused to pass through only the core section 41 as much as possible by total reflection or refraction at the interface between the core section 41 and the cladding section 42, so that the light enters the optical waveguide 4. It reaches the tip (the end including the termination surface 40B on the opposite side to the light receiving surface 40A).

In the optical waveguide 4, for example, both the core portion 41 and the cladding portion 42 are made of synthetic quartz. For example, the core portion 41 is made of synthetic quartz, and the cladding portion 42 is made of impurity-doped synthetic quartz that has a different refractive index from the core portion 41 . In this embodiment, as an example, when the fiber incidence NA (Numerical Aperture) is "0.1", the refractive index of the core part 41 is "1.4698", and the refractive index of the cladding part 42 is "1.4309". ”. Further, when the fiber incidence NA is "0.2", the refractive index of the core portion 41 is "1.4698" and the refractive index of the cladding portion 42 is "1.309". The NA and refractive index mentioned here are merely examples, and are not intended to define the difference between the refractive index of the core portion 41 and the refractive index of the cladding portion 42.

As shown in FIG. 3, the core portion 41 is eccentrically arranged on the outer circumferential side of the cladding portion 42. When viewed from the light-receiving surface 40A, the core portion 41 and the cladding portion 42 each have a circular shape. However, when viewed from the light-receiving surface 40A, the core portion 41 may be formed into a D-shape by cutting its outer peripheral portion. The light receiving surface 40A is flush with the end surface 710 of the ferrule 71.

In this embodiment, as an example, the diameter of the core portion 41 is approximately 10 μm, and the diameter of the cladding portion 42 is approximately 50 μm to 125 μm, but the diameter is not limited to these values.

The core portion 41 is disposed on the outer periphery of the cladding portion 42, and a portion of the core portion 41 is exposed from the outer periphery. Therefore, the light passing through the optical waveguide 4 tends to leak to the outside through the exposed part thereof.

The portion of the optical waveguide 4 covered by the holding member 5 cannot leak light to the bristles 91, and therefore does not function as the light emitting section 40 that emits light to the bristles 91. In this embodiment, a portion of the core portion 41 that is exposed without being covered with the cladding portion 42 and further exposed without being covered with the holder portion H1 and the ferrule 71 becomes the light emitting portion 40. 6A, 6B, etc., a cross section of the optical waveguide 4 including the light emitting section 40 and the holding member 5 taken along the YZ plane is shown.

The refractive index of the light emitting portion 40 is smaller than the refractive index of the surface 921 of the skin 92 (see FIG. 6A). Here, the human skin 92 (skin) includes the epidermis, dermis, subcutaneous tissue, and the like. The surface 921 of the skin 92 here means the outermost epidermis or the surface of the epidermis among the plurality of elements constituting the skin 92.

That is, since the light emitting part 40 consists of the core part 41 of the optical waveguide 4 (optical fiber) having the core part 41 and the cladding part 42, the refractive index of the core part 41 is lower than the refractive index of the surface 921 of the skin 92. is also set to be smaller. As an example, assume that the refractive index of the surface 921 of the human skin 92 is "1.4770". Then, if the refractive index of the core part 41 which is the light emitting part 40 is "1.4698" as described above, the condition that the refractive index of the light emitting part 40 is smaller than the refractive index of the surface 921 of the skin 92 is satisfied. be satisfied.

More specifically, in this embodiment, the refractive index of the light emitting section 40 is 1.47 or less. In short, the refractive index of the light emitting section 40 is set within a range of "1.4700" or less so that the refractive index of the light emitting section 40 is smaller than the refractive index of the surface 921 of the skin 92. Thereby, even if there is some variation in the refractive index of the surface 921 of the skin 92, the refractive index of the light emitting section 40 will be smaller than the refractive index of the surface 921 of the skin 92. In other words, even if the refractive index of the surface 921 of the skin 92 is slightly smaller than "1.4770", the condition that the refractive index of the light emitting section 40 is smaller than the refractive index of the surface 921 of the skin 92 can be satisfied.

Furthermore, the refractive index of the surface 921 of the skin 92 is smaller than the refractive index of the hair 91. In other words, when comparing the refractive index of the surface 921 of the skin 92, the hair 91 protruding from the skin 92 to be cut, and the light emitting part 40 (core part 41), the refractive index of the hair 91 is the highest. The refractive index of the surface 921 of the skin 92 is the second largest, and the refractive index of the light emitting part 40 is the smallest. As an example, it is assumed that the refractive index of human hair 91 (here, "beard") to be cut by the hair cutting device 1 is "1.5432". Then, if the refractive index of the surface 921 of the human skin 92 is "1.4770", the condition that the refractive index of the surface 921 of the skin 92 is smaller than the refractive index of the hair 91 is satisfied.

In short, in this embodiment, the refractive index relationship is "light emitting part < skin < hair", and the refractive index of the surface 921 of the skin 92 is larger than that of the light emitting part 40 (core part 41). The refractive index of the hair 91 is even greater than that of the surface 921 of the skin 92. That is, the refractive index of the light emitting section 40 is smaller than the refractive index of the hair 91 to be cut, and also smaller than the refractive index of the surface 921 of the skin 92.

In this way, in the hair cutting device 1, the refractive index of the light emitting part 40 is smaller than the refractive index of the hair 91 to be cut, so when the hair 91 is in contact with the light emitting part 40, the light emitting part Light leaks out to the hair 91. Therefore, the energy of the light leaking from the light emitting part 40 to the hair 91 causes the hair 91 to be cut. The principle (mechanism) by which the bristles 91 are cut will be explained in detail in the "(2.4) Usage Examples" section. On the other hand, in a state where the hair 91 is not in contact with the light emitting part 40 and only air (refractive index: 1.0) is in contact with the light emitting part 40, the refractive index between the light emitting part 40 and the air is Due to the difference, the amount of light leaking from the light emitting section 40 can be suppressed to a small level.

Furthermore, regarding the relationship of refractive index, it is more preferable that the difference between the refractive index of the light emitting section 40 and the refractive index of the hair 91 to be cut be as small as possible. That is, it is preferable that the refractive indexes of the surface 921 of the skin 92, the hair 91, and the light emitting portion 40 satisfy the above-mentioned magnitude relationship, but that the difference therebetween is as small as possible. As a result, the refractive index of the light emitting section 40 becomes a value close to the refractive index of the hair 91 to be cut, and when the bristles 91 are in contact with the light emitting section 40, light leaks from the light emitting section 40 to the bristles 91. It becomes easier to take out.

Here, as an example, the refractive index of the light emitting part 40 (core part 41) is "1.4698", the refractive index of the surface 921 of the skin 92 is "1.4770", and the refractive index of the hair 91 is "1.5432". Therefore, it can be said that the refractive index of the light emitting portion 40 and the refractive index of the surface 921 of the skin 92 are approximately the same. Here, "the refractive index is about the same" means that when there are two different refractive indexes, the smaller refractive index is included within ±5% of the larger refractive index, This means that the two values are close to each other. In this case, for example, if the incident angle of light (the angle between the normal to the surface 921 of the skin 92) is 80 degrees (the incident NA is about 0.17), the refraction is -5% of the refractive index of the hair 91. The reflectance (s-polarized light) at the interface between an object with a refractive index and an object with the refractive index of the hair 91 is 13.2%, and the reflectance (s-polarized light) at the interface between the light emitting part 40 and the hair 91 is 12%. .5%, and the reflectance (s-polarized light) at the interface between the skin 92 and hair 91 is 11.3%. In this way, even if the refractive index changes by -5%, the reflectance changes by only 2%. That is, in this embodiment, the refractive index of the light emitting part 40 (1.4698) and the refractive index of the surface 921 of the skin 92 are in the range of ±5% of the refractive index of the hair 91 (1.5432). It can be said that they are at the same level.

By the way, as explained in the section "(2.1) Definition", the refractive index of the same substance differs depending on the wavelength, but the above-mentioned relationship between the refractive indexes depends on at least the wavelength of the light output from the light source 21. It remains unchanged within the range of . That is, at least in the wavelength range of the light output from the light source 21 (for example, the range from 400 nm to 700 nm), the refractive index satisfies the relationship "light emitting part<skin<hair".

Furthermore, since the refractive index of the cladding part 42 is smaller than the refractive index of the core part 41 which is the light emitting part 40, when the above-mentioned conditions are satisfied, the core part 41, the cladding part 42, the surface 921 of the skin 92, and Among the four members of the hair 91, the refractive index of the cladding portion 42 is the smallest. In other words, the relationship between the refractive indexes of the four parts is "clad part < core part < skin < hair."

By the way, in the hair cutting device 1 according to the present embodiment, the power density of the light passing through the optical waveguide 4 is 50 kW/cm ² or more at least when cutting the hair 91. That is, in the optical waveguide 4 having the core portion 41 and the cladding portion 42, since light passes through the inside of the core portion 41, the light intensity per unit area (1 cm ² ) in the cross section of the core portion 41 is 50 kW. That's all. Here, the power density of the light passing through the optical waveguide 4 does not always need to be 50 kW/cm ² or more, and at least when cutting the hair 91 (when cutting the hair 91), the power density of the light passing through the optical waveguide 4 is not always 50 kW/cm ² or more. Good to have.

In this embodiment, as an example, the power density of light passing through the optical waveguide 4 when cutting the hair 91 is 50 kW/cm ² or more and 300 kW/cm ² or less. Further, the power density of the light passing through the optical waveguide 4 when cutting the hair 91 is preferably 70 kW/cm ² or more, which is sufficient to cut the hair 91, and more preferably 75 kW/cm ² or more. Furthermore, if the hair 91 can be cut quickly (for example, in about 0.1 seconds), it is more preferable that the power density of the light passing through the optical waveguide 4 when cutting the hair 91 is 100 kW/cm ² or more. Further, the power density of the light passing through the optical waveguide 4 when cutting the hair 91 is preferably 200 kW/cm ² or less, considering the optical output of a laser that can be applied as a consumer product, the fiber diameter, etc. In this embodiment, as an example, it is assumed that the power density of light passing through the optical waveguide 4 when cutting the hair 91 has an initial value of 100 kW/cm ² .

Details will be explained in the "(2.4) Usage Examples" and "(3) Effects" columns, but with this level of power density, the hair cutting device 1 can cut the hair from the light emitting part 40 to the hair 91. The emitted light makes it easy to efficiently cut the hair 91.

Furthermore, in this embodiment, the power density of light passing through the optical waveguide 4 is variable. That is, in the hair cutting device 1 according to the present embodiment, the power density of the light passing through the optical waveguide 4 is not fixed to the initial value, but is configured such that the power density of the light passing through the optical waveguide 4 can be changed. There is. In particular, the power density of the light passing through the optical waveguide 4 when cutting the hair 91 is not fixed to the initial value (100 kW/cm ² ) but can be changed from the initial value. The power density of the light passing through the optical waveguide 4 when cutting the hair 91 is preferably variable within a range of 50 kW/cm ² or more. The power density of light passing through the optical waveguide 4 may change continuously or stepwise (discontinuously).

Further, in this embodiment, the power density of light passing through the optical waveguide 4 is adjusted by adjusting the output from the light source 21. "Adjusting" the power density here includes both the mode of setting the power density to a specified value and the mode of changing the power density as described above. In short, when the power density of light passing through the optical waveguide 4 is fixed to the initial value, the magnitude of the output from the light source 21 is determined so that the power density becomes the initial value (100 kW/cm ² ). . On the other hand, when the power density of light passing through the optical waveguide 4 is changed from the initial value to a desired value, the magnitude of the output from the light source 21 is determined so that the power density becomes the desired value after the change. be done. The configuration for determining the magnitude of the output from the light source 21 will be described in detail in the section "(2.6) Control circuit".

(2.3.3) Holding Member Next, details of the holding member 5 of the light emission module M1 will be described with reference to FIGS. 6A and 6B.

The holding member 5 is a part that holds the optical waveguide 4. In particular, the holding member 5 holds the optical waveguide 4 with a portion of the core portion 41 of the optical waveguide 4 exposed. In other words, the optical waveguide 4 is held such that a portion of the core portion 41 is blocked by the holding member 5 and light leakage is not inhibited.

The optical waveguide 4 is held by the holding member 5 in such a manner that at least the light emitting portion 40 is exposed on the surface of the holding member 5 facing forward in the direction of movement of the hair cutting device 1 (positive direction of the Z axis). There is. The core portion 41 of the optical waveguide 4 held in this manner functions as a light emitting portion 40 that cuts the hair 91 by emitting light to the hair 91.

Since the holding member 5 is fixed to the fixed block 32, the optical waveguide 4 (light emitting section 40) is indirectly fixed to the cover 30 via the holding member 5 and the fixed block 32.

Here, the light emitting section 40 of the optical waveguide 4, the holding member 5, and the fixing block 32 are all exposed to the outside of the cover 30 through the opening 31. Furthermore, within the opening 31, the fixed block 32 and the holding member 5 are positioned on the rear side in the direction of movement of the hair cutting device 1 (that is, on the negative side of the Z axis) in the lateral direction (Z-axis direction) of the opening 31. (See Figure 5A). Therefore, a gap is secured between the periphery of the opening 31 and the front side of the hair cutting device 1 in the direction of movement (that is, the positive side of the Z axis) when viewed from the holding member 5, and the opening is inserted through this gap. It is possible to take in the hair 91 to be cut into the section 31. In other words, the surface of the holding member 5 on which the optical waveguide 4 is held so that the light emitting portion 40 is exposed, that is, the surface facing forward in the direction of movement of the hair cutting device 1 (positive direction of the Z axis). , and the periphery of the opening 31, as shown in FIG. 6A, hair 91 to be cut can be introduced.

The hair 91 to be cut is introduced into the cover 30 from the opening 31 at a position facing the light emitting section 40 held by the holding member 5, as shown in FIG. 6A. In this state, the optical waveguide 4 held by the holding member 5 brings the light emitting section 40 into abutment against the hair 91 to be cut. Thereby, the optical waveguide 4 can bring the light emitting section 40 into contact with the hair 91 to be cut.

The holding member 5 includes a base 51 and an adhesive member 52. The adhesive member 52 adheres the optical waveguide 4 to the base 51. The base 51 and the adhesive member 52 are both made of synthetic resin having light transmittance. In particular, the base 51 is a resin molded product that is molded using a mold. On the other hand, the adhesive member 52 is a cured product of a paste-like resin that is an adhesive. In other words, the adhesive member 52 is a cured adhesive for bonding the base 51 and the optical waveguide 4 together.

The base 51 is formed into a prismatic shape having a length along the X axis. The base 51 is attached to a surface of the fixed block 32 facing forward in the direction of movement of the hair cutting device 1 (positive direction of the Z axis) by bonding, welding, pasting, or joining using a fastening member (such as a screw). It is fixed by appropriate means. In this embodiment, the refractive index of the base 51 is greater than or equal to the refractive index of the core portion 41 (light emitting portion 40).

Further, the base 51 has four surfaces: a facing surface 511, a side surface 512, a back surface 513, and a back surface 514, as shown in FIG. 6B. A cross section perpendicular to the length (X-axis) of the base 51 has a substantially rectangular shape with these four sides as its four sides. Opposing surface 511 is a surface that faces surface 921 of skin 92 when hair 91 is cut. The side surface 512 is a surface that intersects with the surface 921 of the skin 92 when the hair 91 is cut, and is a surface adjacent to the opposing surface 511. The back surface 513 is a surface facing opposite to the opposing surface 511 and adjacent to the side surface 512. The back surface 514 is a surface facing opposite to the side surface 512 and adjacent to the back surface 513. Here, the optical waveguide 4 is held on the side surface 512.

The adhesive member 52 adheres the optical waveguide 4 to the base 51. In this embodiment, the adhesive member 52 is provided on the side surface 512 of the base 51 to bond the base 51 and the optical waveguide 4 so that the optical waveguide 4 is held on the side surface 512 of the base 51. Here, the adhesive member 52 is arranged over the entire length of the base 51 in the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction). Therefore, the optical waveguide 4 is bonded to the base 51 with the adhesive member 52 over the entire length of the base 51 in the longitudinal direction.

In this embodiment, the adhesive member 52 directly contacts the cladding part 42 of the light emitting part 40 . Therefore, the adhesive member 52 is not subject to any restrictions regarding its refractive index, and there are a wide range of materials to choose from. That is, if the refractive index of the light emitting part 40 (core part 41) is "1.4698", the refractive index of the adhesive member 52 may be larger than "1.4698". A cladding portion 42 having a refractive index smaller than that of the light emitting portion 40 is interposed between the light emitting portion 40 and the adhesive member 52 . Therefore, even if the refractive index of the adhesive member 52 is larger than that of the light emitting part 40, the cladding part 42 can appropriately limit the amount of light leakage, and the light leakage from the core part 41 more than necessary can be avoided. Decrease in optical power density can be suppressed. Of course, the refractive index of the adhesive member 52 may be equal to or less than the refractive index of the light emitting section 40 .

Furthermore, a positioning portion 53 (groove) for positioning the optical waveguide 4 is formed on a side surface 512 of the base 51 on which the optical waveguide 4 is held. The positioning portion 53 is formed over the entire length of the base 51 in the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction). The optical waveguide 4 is held on the side surface 512 of the base 51 such that the cladding portion 42 is accommodated in a groove serving as a positioning portion 53 .

The hair cutting member 3 is located around the optical waveguide 4 and has contact surfaces (a module-side contact surface 501 and a cover-side contact surface 301: see FIG. 5A) that come into contact with the skin 92 when cutting the hair 91. The optical waveguide 4 is held by the holding member 5 so that the height L0 (see FIG. 6B) from the module-side contact surface 501 is 100 μm or less. Here, the module-side contact surface 501 corresponds to the opposing surface 511 of the base 51 and the surface of the fixed block 32 facing in the negative direction of the Y-axis. The cover-side contact surface 301 corresponds to the surface of the cover 30 facing in the negative direction of the Y-axis. In this embodiment, the height of the optical waveguide 4 from the cover side contact surface 301 is also approximately the same as the height from the module side contact surface 501.

The height L0 of the optical waveguide 4 from such a contact surface (501, 301) is equal to the height of the optical waveguide 4 from the surface 921 of the skin 92 when cutting the hair 91. That is, in this embodiment, the height L0 is set to 100 μm or less, so that the distance (height) from the surface 921 of the skin 92 to the optical waveguide 4 when cutting the hair 91 becomes 100 μm or less. However, here, the height L0 is 1 μm or more and is not zero (0). Therefore, when cutting the hair 91, the optical waveguide 4 can be separated from the surface 921 of the skin 92. Therefore, for example, even if there is a raised object such as a pimple on the surface 921 of the skin 92, the optical waveguide 4 is unlikely to be caught by the raised object.

(2.3.4) Cover and Fixed Cap As described above, the cover 30 is made of synthetic resin and is formed into a long prismatic shape along the X axis as a whole. The cover 30 is hollow and has an opening 31. The cover 30 accommodates the light emitting module M1 therein in such a manner that the light emitting section 40 of the optical waveguide 4 is exposed through the opening 31. Here, the cover 30 does not accommodate the entire light emission module M1, but accommodates a portion of the light emission module M1 that protrudes in the positive direction of the X-axis relative to the holder portion H1. A fixing block 32 of the light emitting module M1 is fixed to the cover 30.

The cover 30 has an insertion opening 300 (see FIG. 3) on one end surface in the negative direction of the X-axis. The light emitting module M1 is inserted through the insertion opening 300 of the cover 30 and housed therein. The cover 30 also has a flange portion 320 at the periphery of the insertion port 300.

The fixed cap 34 is made of metal, for example, but is not particularly limited, and may be made of synthetic resin. The fixed cap 34 has a cylindrical shape with an axis along the X axis. The fixed cap 34 has an open end face facing the negative direction of the X-axis, and a hole through which the cover 30 can be inserted in the end face opposite to the one end face (face facing the positive direction of the X-axis). 340 (see FIG. 1). The fixed cap 34 has a thread groove 341 on its inner peripheral surface into which a threaded portion 810 (thread thread) in the receptacle portion 81 can be screwed.

The cover 30 is fixed to the holder part H1 via the flange part 320. Here, the cover 30 is fixed to the holder part H1 in a form that accommodates the light emitting module M1 by adhering the fixing member F1 in the holder part H1 to the flange part 320.

The fixed cap 34 is moved in the negative direction of the X axis so as to pass the cover 30 through the hole 340, and is placed on the cover 30, and is further arranged so as to substantially cover the entire holder portion H1 in the circumferential direction. . The inner peripheral portion of the hole 340 of the fixed cap 34 contacts the flange portion 320 of the cover 30, and further movement in the negative direction of the X-axis is restricted. The fixed cap 34 is rotatable with respect to the cover 30 and the holder part H1 in the state shown in FIG.

In this embodiment, the fixed cap 34 has a regulating structure (here, the thread groove 341) that regulates the ferrule 71 from coming off from the receptacle portion 81. By screwing the threaded portion 810 of the receptacle portion 81 of the device main body 2 into the threaded groove 341 of the fixed cap 34, the ferrule 71 is prevented from coming off from the receptacle portion 81. Therefore, it is easy to prevent the ferrule 71 from coming off unintentionally. As a result, the entire hair cutting member 3 including the ferrule 71 becomes difficult to fall off from the device main body 2.

(2.3.5) Ferrule The ferrule 71 is integrally coupled with the light emitting module M1 in a form that holds the end of the optical waveguide 4 on the light receiving surface 40A side, and is a core for light introduced into the optical waveguide 4. This is a connecting member that uniquely determines the position of the portion 41. The ferrule 71 is mechanically connectable to the receptacle portion 81. By connecting the ferrule 71 to the receptacle portion 81, light is introduced into the core portion 41 from the receptacle portion 81 side.

The ferrule 71 is, for example, a cylindrical member that is elongated along the X-axis, and both end surfaces in the X-axis direction are open. The ferrule 71 is formed of, for example, a ceramic sintered body such as zirconia. The ferrule 71 has an annular shape when viewed along the X-axis. The outer diameter of the ferrule 71 is, for example, 2.5 mm, but is not limited to this value.

The ferrule 71 is attached to the end of the optical waveguide 4 on the light receiving surface 40A side. The inner diameter of the ferrule 71 is larger than the outer diameter of the optical waveguide 4, and the ferrule 71 is integrally coupled with the light emitting module M1 via the adhesive member G1.

The adhesive member G1 adheres the optical waveguide 4 and the ferrule 71. The adhesive member G1 is a cured product of a paste-like resin that is an adhesive. That is, the adhesive member G1 is a cured adhesive for bonding the inner peripheral surface of the ferrule 71 and the outer peripheral surface of the optical waveguide 4. The cladding portion 42 is arranged such that a portion of its outer circumferential surface contacts the inner circumferential surface of the ferrule 71 . The refractive index of the adhesive member G1 is smaller than the refractive index of the core portion 41. Therefore, it is easy to suppress leakage of more light than necessary from the core part 41 to the adhesive member G1.

Next, the receptacle portion 81 of the device main body 2 to which the ferrule 71 is coupled will be described with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4. The receptacle portion 81 is, for example, a portion made of resin, and is formed integrally with the case 20 of the device main body 2 here. However, the receptacle portion 81 may be made of metal. Further, the receptacle portion 81 may be separate from the case 20 and may be fixed to the case 20 by an appropriate means such as adhesion, welding, pasting, or connection using a fastening member (screws, etc.). good.

The receptacle portion 81 has a generally cylindrical shape as a whole. As shown in FIG. 3, the receptacle portion 81 includes a first portion 801 and a second portion 802. The first portion 801 is a portion that is continuous with one end of the case 20 on the positive side of the X axis. The second portion 802 is a portion having a smaller outer diameter than the first portion 801 and is continuous with the end of the first portion 801 on the positive side of the X axis.

The receptacle portion 81 has a circular through hole 811 extending along its axial direction. The through hole 811 communicates with an accommodation space in the case 20 that accommodates the light source 21, the optical system 22, and the like. However, the fourth lens 224 of the optical system 22 is arranged so as to close the opening at the back of the through hole 811 in the receptacle portion 81 . In other words, when the ferrule 71 is not connected to the receptacle part 81, one surface of the fourth lens 224 of the optical system 22 is exposed to the outside through the through hole 811.

As shown in FIG. 3, the through hole 811 includes a circular small diameter hole 812 and a circular large diameter hole 813 having an inner diameter larger than the inner diameter of the small diameter hole 812. The inner diameter of the small diameter hole 812 is set to be approximately the same as the outer diameter of the ferrule 71 to such an extent that the ferrule 71 fits within the small diameter hole 812 with almost no gap. The inner diameter of the large diameter hole 813 is set to be approximately the same as the outer diameter of the holder portion H1 to the extent that the holder portion H1 fits within the large diameter hole 813. Note that the inner diameter of the small diameter hole 812 is smaller than the outer diameter of the fourth lens 224 arranged adjacent to the small diameter hole 812.

With the ferrule 71 connected to the receptacle part 81, the holder part H1 contacts the peripheral edge part 815 (see FIG. 3) of the opening of the small diameter hole 812. As a result, the ferrule 71 is prevented from entering further into the interior.

Here, the holder part H1 is in contact with the peripheral part 815 (see FIG. 3), and the light receiving surface 40A of the optical waveguide 4 is in a state in which it faces closely to one surface of the fourth lens 224 with a slight gap. Placed. In particular, the optical axis of the core portion 41 whose position is uniquely determined by the ferrule 71 coincides with the optical axis CX1 of the light source 21 and the optical system 22 (see FIG. 2).

Here, a threaded portion 810 (thread thread) (see FIG. 3) on the outer peripheral surface of the second portion 802 can be screwed into the threaded groove 341 of the fixed cap 34.

Further, the second portion 802 has a slit-shaped groove portion 814 in a region of its outer peripheral surface facing the positive direction of the Y axis. The groove portion 814 penetrates the above region of the second portion 802. The groove portion 814 communicates with the large diameter hole 813. The groove portion 814 is formed across both ends of the second portion 802 in the X-axis direction. The groove portion 814 allows insertion of the convex portion H11 of the holder portion H1. In a state where the holder portion H1 is in contact with the peripheral portion 815 (see FIG. 3), the convex portion H11 is at a position where it has entered the depth of the groove portion 814 in the X-axis direction.

(2.3.6) Holder Part The holder part H1 is a part into which a part of the light emitting module M1 and a part of the ferrule 71 are inserted and integrally couple them to each other.

The holder portion H1 is, for example, a cylindrical member that is elongated along the X-axis, and both end surfaces in the X-axis direction are open. The holder part H1 is, for example, a part made of metal (or may be made of synthetic resin). The holder portion H1 has an annular shape when viewed along the X-axis.

The inner diameter of the holder portion H1 is larger than the outer diameter of the light emitting module M1. Further, the inner diameter of the holder portion H1 is larger than the outer diameter of the ferrule 71. The holder portion H1 has a convex portion H11 (see FIG. 4) that protrudes in the positive direction of the Y-axis on its outer peripheral surface. The convex portion H11 is inserted into the groove portion 814 in the negative direction of the X axis, thereby uniquely determining the position of the hair cutting member 3 in the direction around the axis of the hair cutting member 3 with respect to the receptacle portion 81. Here, as an example, the convex portion H11 is formed in a cylindrical shape, but the shape is not particularly limited.

Further, in this embodiment, one end of the light emitting module M1 on the negative side of the X-axis is fixed via the fixing member F1 in a state where it enters the back from the opening on the positive side of the X-axis in the holder part H1. Ru. Further, one end of the ferrule 71 on the positive side of the X-axis is connected to the end of the light-receiving surface 40A of the optical waveguide 4 attached to the ferrule 71, and the opening on the negative side of the X-axis in the holder part H1 It is fixed via the fixing member F1 in a state where it has entered the back from the front. Here, the refractive index of the fixed member F1 is smaller than the refractive index of the core portion 41. Therefore, it is easy to suppress leakage of more light than necessary from the core part 41 to the fixing member F1.

The fixing member F1 is, for example, a cured product of a paste-like resin that is an adhesive. The fixing member F1 may be the same type of adhesive as the adhesive member G1 in the ferrule 71, or may be a different type of adhesive. The fixing member F1 adheres a part of the light emitting module M1 and a part of the ferrule 71. The fixing member F1 aligns the central axis of the light emitting module M1 and the central axis of the ferrule 71 with the central axis of the holder portion H1, and fixes the optical waveguide 4 in a state where the second region 402 is curved. Note that it is desirable that the curvature of the second region 402 of the optical waveguide 4 be as small as possible, so that leakage of light in the second region 402 can be suppressed.

By the way, the plurality of first connection lines 101 (see FIGS. 2 and 9) respectively derived from the sensor section S1 (S11, S12) and the detection section D1 are arranged so as to pass through the inside of the holder section H1. The plurality of first connection wires 101 are held in the holder part H1 via the fixing member F1, while the conductor part 101A (see FIG. 9: for example, a connection pin) at the tip of each first connection wire 101 is held in the holder part H1. It is exposed from one end on the negative side of the X axis of H1.

On the other hand, a plurality of second connection lines 102 (see FIGS. 2 and 9) electrically connected to the control circuit 6 are embedded in the receptacle portion 81. A conductor portion 102A (see FIG. 9; for example, a pin receiving portion) at the tip of each second connection line 102 is exposed from one end (peripheral portion 815) on the positive side of the X-axis of the receptacle portion 81. By inserting the convex portion H11 deep into the groove 814 in the negative direction of the X axis, the conductor portion 101A of each first connection wire 101 exposed from the holder portion H1 becomes the conductor of the corresponding second connection wire 102 It is connected to the section 102A. In short, by attaching the hair cutting member 3 to the device main body 2, not only the optical waveguide 4 is optically coupled to the light source 21 via the optical system 22, but also the sensor section S1 and the detection section D1 are connected to the connecting line. It will be electrically connected to the control circuit 6 via (101, 102).

(2.3.7) Sensor Section The sensor section S1 (see FIGS. 1, 5A, 5B, and 9) is a part for detecting the contact state of the skin 92. The sensor section S1 is arranged in a region around the optical waveguide 4. The hair cutting device 1 includes two sensor sections S1. The two sensor parts S1 are fixed to the cover 30. The two sensor parts S1 are arranged on both sides of the cover 30 in the width direction W1 (see FIG. 5B). The width direction W1 is parallel to the Z axis. The number of sensor sections S1 is not particularly limited. The number of sensor sections S1 may be one or three or more.

As shown in FIG. 1, the two sensor sections S1 are arranged so as to sandwich the opening 31 of the cover 30 between them in the Z-axis direction. Hereinafter, the sensor section S1 on the positive side of the Z-axis relative to the opening 31 will be referred to as "first sensor section S11", and the sensor section S1 on the negative side of the Z-axis relative to the opening 31 will be referred to as "second sensor section S12". ” is sometimes called.

Each sensor section S1 constitutes, for example, a capacitive touch sensor (touch switch). Each sensor section S1 may be a capacitive proximity sensor that detects the proximity of an object by increasing sensitivity, and in this case, the sensor section S1 can serve as a part for detecting the proximity state of the skin 92. Further, each sensor section S1 is not limited to a capacitive sensor, but may be an optical sensor, an inductive sensor, a magnetic sensor, or the like.

Each sensor section S1 is a self-capacitance type sensor that has a single electrode S2 (conductor section) and detects a change in capacitance between the electrode S2 and the contact body (skin 92). Further, each sensor section S1 further includes, for example, a protective cover S3. Each protective cover S3 is arranged to cover the surface of the corresponding electrode S2. Each protective cover S3 is formed of, for example, a resin material having electrical insulation properties. Depending on the detection method of the sensor section S1, the protective cover S3 may be omitted.

Each sensor part S1 is fixed so as to be embedded in the cover 30, for example, by insert molding or the like. The surface (contact surface S10) of each sensor section S1 is generally exposed from the surface of the cover 30 (one surface on the negative side of the Y-axis). The contact surface S10 corresponds to the surface of the protective cover S3 (one surface on the negative side of the Y-axis). Contact surface S10 is generally flush with the surface of cover 30. Here, as an example, it is assumed that the cover-side contact surface 301 is constituted by the contact surface S10 and the surface of the cover 30 (one surface on the negative side of the Y-axis).

Each electrode S2 is electrically connected to one of the plurality of first connection lines 101 for the sensor section S1. By attaching the hair cutting member 3 to the device main body 2, each electrode S2 is electrically connected to the control circuit 6 via the connection line (101, 102).

When the skin 92 comes into contact with the contact surface S10 of each sensor section S1, an electrical signal including a change in the capacitance of a (pseudo) capacitor constituted by the electrode S2 and the human body is transmitted to the connecting wire (101, 102) to the control circuit 6. The control circuit 6 determines that the skin 92 has contacted the contact surface S10 or that the skin 92 has separated from the contact surface S10, depending on the electrical signals (detection signals) received from each sensor section S1.

(2.3.8) Detection Unit and Detection Region The detection region D2 is a region through which the target light OB1 resulting from the light transmitted within the optical waveguide 4 passes, as shown in FIG. 5B. The detection area D2 is a spatial area located inside the cover 30 at a corner on the positive side of the X axis. The target light OB1 is part of the light that is transmitted within the optical waveguide 4 and heads toward the detection region D2.

Here, the hair cutting device 1 of this embodiment further includes a diffusion section Y1, as shown in FIG. 5B. The diffusion section Y1 is disposed within the detection region D2, and diffuses and reflects the light that has been transmitted through the optical waveguide 4 and entered the detection region D2. Here, the target light OB1 includes the diffused light diffused by the diffuser Y1. In other words, if the light transmitted through the optical waveguide 4 is primary light, the target light OB1 is secondary light. The diffusion portion Y1 is fixed to the cover 30 by appropriate fixing means.

The diffusing portion Y1 is composed of a member having a reflecting surface Y10 (see FIG. 5B) that diffusely reflects light (incident light) in various directions. In the example of FIG. 5B, the diffusion section Y1 is composed of a plate-shaped member arranged so that its thickness direction is parallel to the X axis, but the shape of the diffusion section Y1 is not particularly limited. The reflective surface Y10 may be formed by providing, for example, a fine uneven structure on the surface of the base material of the diffusing portion Y1. The method of forming the reflective surface Y10 is not particularly limited.

As shown in FIG. 5B, the tip of the light emitting module M1 on the positive side of the X axis, specifically, the termination surface 40B of the tip of the optical waveguide 4, is the reflective surface of the diffuser Y1 in the detection area D2. It is arranged to face Y10. That is, among the light transmitted along the transmission direction A2 in the optical waveguide 4, light other than the light leaked from the light emitting part 40 for cutting the hair 91 is led out from the termination surface 40B. Therefore, direct light transmitted through the optical waveguide 4 and led out from the termination surface 40B is incident on the reflective surface Y10. The optical axis C1 of the optical waveguide 4 is orthogonal to the reflective surface Y10.

The detection area D2 communicates with the accommodation space SP1. A partition wall may be provided between the detection area D2 and the accommodation space SP1. When a partition wall is provided, it is preferable that the partition wall is provided with a hole through which the optical waveguide 4 passes.

The detection unit D1 detects the target light OB1 (here, the light diffused by the diffusion unit Y1) within the detection area D2, as shown in FIG. 5B. The detection unit D1 is arranged in the detection area D2.

The detection unit D1 includes a light receiving element such as a photodiode as a semiconductor element. The detection unit D1 may have a photodiode array composed of a plurality of photodiodes.

The detection unit D1 is arranged at a position where it can receive the target light OB1. The detection unit D1 has a light receiving surface D10 made of, for example, a condensing lens. The light-receiving surface D10 is arranged so as to face the reflective surface Y10 of the diffusion section Y1.

The detection unit D1 is arranged on the negative side of the X-axis rather than the reflective surface Y10. Specifically, the detection unit D1 is arranged between the reflective surface Y10 and the end surface 40B in the direction of the X-axis. Here, as an example, the detection unit D1 is arranged on the negative side of the Z-axis rather than the optical waveguide 4. However, the location of the detector D1 is not particularly limited as long as it can receive the target light OB1 and is disposed so as not to block the light that is derived from the termination surface 40B and enters the reflective surface Y10. . Further, in the illustrated example, the detection section D1 is schematically formed in a rectangular shape, but the shape is not particularly limited.

Although not shown in FIG. 5B, it is desirable that the detection unit D1 be mounted on a mounting board, and that the mounting board be fixed to the cover 30 by appropriate fixing means.

The light receiving element of the detection unit D1 is electrically connected to a line for the detection unit D1 among the plurality of first connection lines 101. By attaching the hair cutting member 3 to the device main body 2, the light receiving element of the detection section D1 is electrically connected to the control circuit 6 via the connection line (101, 102). The detection unit D1 outputs an electric signal (detection signal) corresponding to the intensity of light incident from the light receiving surface D10 to the control circuit 6 via the connection line (101, 102).

While the user is using the hair cutting device 1, the light output from the light source 21 becomes target light OB1 in the detection area D2, and the light intensity is detected by the detection unit D1. The hair cutting device 1 of the present embodiment uses the detection result of the light intensity by the detection unit D1 as a judgment material for determining (estimating) the abnormal state and deterioration state (including signs thereof) of the hair cutting device 1. There is only one light source 21, and the light output of the light source 21 is controlled.

(2.4) Usage Example Next, usage examples of the hair cutting device 1 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 7A to 8B.

That is, in this embodiment, the hair cutting device 1 having the above-described configuration is used to cut (here, "shave") the hair 91 (here, "beard"). At that time, the user holds the main body 2 (grip) of the hair cutting device 1 with one hand and holds the hair cutting device 1 in the negative direction of the Y axis of the hair cutting member 3 (head), that is, the cover 30. The surface facing the user is brought into contact with the user's skin 92. As a result, as shown in FIG. 7A, the hair 91 to be cut is introduced into the cover 30 from the opening 31 to a position facing the light emitting section 40 held by the holding member 5.

As shown in FIG. 7A, when the light emitting section 40 is not in contact with the hair 91, air comes into contact with the light emitting section 40, so that due to the difference in refractive index between the light emitting section 40 and the air, Almost no light leaks from the light emitting section 40. In this state, the user moves the hair cutting member 3 as the hair cutting device 1 along the surface 921 of the skin 92 in the direction of arrow A1 in FIG. 7A.

As the hair cutting member 3 moves, as shown in FIG. 7B, the light emitting section 40 comes into contact with the hair 91 located forward in the direction of movement of the hair cutting member 3 (that is, in the positive direction of the Z axis). At this time, due to the difference in refractive index between the light emitting section 40 and the bristles 91, light from the light emitting section 40 leaks to the bristles 91 and is emitted to the bristles 91. That is, since the refractive index of the light emitting section 40 is smaller than the refractive index of the hair 91 to be cut, when the bristles 91 are in contact with the light emitting section 40, light leaks from the light emitting section 40 to the hair 91. As a result, light is emitted from the light emitting section 40 to the hair 91.

Furthermore, in the state shown in FIG. 7B, part of the light emitted from the light emitting section 40 to the hair 91 is scattered, so that the light from the light emitting section 40 is also emitted to the skin 92 around the hair 91. It turns out. Specifically, a portion of the light leaking from the contact portion of the light emitting section 40 with the hair 91 is scattered by the hair 91 and emitted to the skin 92 . Here, as shown in FIG. 7B, the light mainly emitted to the hair 91 is assumed to be a first emitted light Op1, and the light mainly emitted to the skin 92 is assumed to be a second emitted light Op2. That is, when the hair 91 is in contact with the light emitting section 40 , the light emitting section 40 emits the first emitted light Op1 to the hair 91 and emits the second emitted light Op2 to the skin 92 .

In particular, when the first emitted light Op1 is emitted from the light emitting section 40 to the hair 91, the hair 91 is cut by the energy of the light (first emitted light Op1) emitted from the light emitting section 40 to the hair 91. In short, in this embodiment, the wavelength of the light output from the light source 21 and passing through the optical waveguide 4 (for example, 400 nm or more and 700 nm or less) is the chromophore (a part of the molecule that provides the molecule with its color) in the hair 91. contains the wavelength of light absorbed by Therefore, the first emitted light Op1 is absorbed by the chromophore of the hair 91 and converted into heat, and this heat destroys the molecular bonds of the hair 91 or melts or burns the hair 91. The chromophore that can be the target of the light (first emitted light Op1) emitted from the light emitting part 40 to the hair 91 includes, for example, chromophores such as keratin and water.

As described above, the user cuts the hair 91 protruding from the skin 92 by moving the hair cutting member 3 as the hair cutting device 1 along the skin 92 in the direction of the arrow A1 (see FIG. 7A). be able to. Therefore, after the optical waveguide 4 has passed, only the root portion of the hair 91 that remains uncut remains on the skin 92, as shown in FIG. 7C.

However, in the hair cutting device 1, as shown in FIG. 7B, even if the light emitting section 40 does not come into contact with the hair 91, for example, light (evanescent wave ) may emit light to the bristles 91 due to seepage. Therefore, in the hair cutting device 1, not only when the light emitting section 40 comes into contact with the hair 91, but also when the light emitting section 40 and the hair 91 come close to contacting each other, the light emitting section 40 contacts the hair 91. The first emission light Op1 may be emitted to cut the hair 91 in some cases.

By the way, depending on the condition of the skin 92, as shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, when cutting (here, "shaving") the hair 91 (here, "beard") using the hair cutting device 1, The light emitting section 40 may come into contact with a portion of the skin 92 . 8A and 8B show an example of how the hair cutting device 1 is used in a case where, for example, a raised part 922 such as a pimple exists around the hair 91 (around the hair root) on the skin 92. The raised part 922 is a part of the skin 92 that is raised (raised) compared to the surface 921 of the skin 92 around the raised part 922 .

That is, as shown in FIG. 8A, when the light emitting section 40 is not in contact with the hair 91, the light emitting section 40 is in contact with air, so the difference in refractive index between the light emitting section 40 and the air is Therefore, almost no light leaks from the light emitting section 40. In this state, the user moves the hair cutting member 3 along the surface 921 of the skin 92 in the direction of arrow A1 in FIG. 8A.

As the hair cutting member 3 moves, the light emitting section 40 comes into contact with the hair 91 located in front of the hair cutting member 3 in the direction of movement (that is, in the positive direction of the Z axis), as shown in FIG. 8B. At this time, due to the difference in refractive index between the light emitting section 40 and the bristles 91, the light (first emitted light Op1) from the light emitting section 40 leaks into the bristles 91 and is emitted to the bristles 91. When the first emitted light Op1 is emitted from the light emitting section 40 to the hair 91, the hair 91 is cut by the energy of the light (first emitted light Op1) emitted from the light emitting section 40 to the hair 91.

Furthermore, in the state shown in FIG. 8B, the light emitting section 40 also contacts the protrusion 922 around the hair 91 on the skin 92. At this time, due to the difference in refractive index between the light emitting section 40 and the surface 921 (protrusion 922) of the skin 92, the light from the light emitting section 40 leaks into the skin 92 and is emitted to the skin 92. That is, since the refractive index of the light emitting section 40 is smaller than the refractive index of the surface 921 of the skin 92, when the skin 92 is in contact with the light emitting section 40, light does not leak from the light emitting section 40 to the skin 92. Then, light (second emitted light Op2) is emitted from the light emitting section 40 to the skin 92. At this time, the second emitted light Op2 is directly emitted from the light emitting part 40 to the skin 92, and the second emitted light Op2 is mainly emitted to the raised part 922. Particularly in this embodiment, the portion of the optical waveguide 4 that directly contacts the raised portion 922 is likely to become the cladding portion 42, and the energy of the second emitted light Op2 is lower than that of the first emitted light Op1. .

(2.5) Replacement of Hair Cutting Member By the way, in this embodiment, since the ferrule 71 is removable from the receptacle portion 81, the hair cutting member 3 can be easily replaced. Hereinafter, the replacement work of the hair cutting member 3 will be explained.

The hair cutting member 3 may need to be replaced due to deterioration over time. Specifically, the light emitting portion 40 of the optical waveguide 4 may be damaged by repeated contact with the skin 92, hair 91, etc., and the amount of light emitted may be reduced, resulting in a situation where the hair 91 cannot be completely cut. There is sex.

First, the user performs an operation to remove the old hair cutting member 3 that is attached to the device main body 2 from the device main body 2. Specifically, the user rotates the fixed cap 34 of the hair cutting member 3 with his/her finger in a direction to loosen it. As a result, the fixed cap 34 moves in the positive direction of the X-axis while the thread groove 341 fastened to the threaded part 810 of the receptacle part 81 loosens, and finally comes out of the receptacle part 81. In this state, the user grasps the outside of the cover 30 with his/her hand and pulls it in the positive direction of the Module M1 can be pulled out in the positive direction of the X-axis. At this time, the convex portion H11 that had been fitted into the groove portion 814 also moves in the positive direction of the X-axis along the groove portion 814, and finally comes out of the groove portion 814 (see FIG. 3).

Subsequently, the user performs the work of attaching, for example, a new hair cutting member 3 to the device main body 2. Specifically, while grasping the outside of the cover 30 with his hand, the user pushes it in the negative direction of the X-axis so that the ferrule 71 on the distal end side is inserted into the receptacle part 81. At this time, the user adjusts the circumferential direction of the hair cutting member 3 while using the convex portion H11 of the holder portion H1 as a landmark. That is, the user adjusts the circumferential direction of the hair cutting member 3 so that the convex portion H11 faces the groove portion 814 in the X-axis direction. Then, the cover 30 is pushed in the negative direction of the X-axis so that the convex portion H11 is inserted toward the groove portion 814.

As a result, the ferrule 71 fits into the small diameter hole 812 in the receptacle part 81, and the holder part H1 fits into the large diameter hole 813 in the receptacle part 81. At this point, rotation of the hair cutting member 3 along the circumferential direction with respect to the device main body 2 is restricted. The light-receiving surface 40A closely faces the optical system 22 (fourth lens 224), and the optical axis C1 of the core portion 41 is connected to the optical axis CX1 of the optical system 22 (without the user being aware of it). automatically). In short, the positioning of the light emitting module M1 is facilitated, and the ease of assembly is improved.

Finally, the user attaches the fixing cap 34 to the receptacle portion 81, thereby making it difficult for the hair cutting member 3 to come off from the device main body 2. Note that the fixed cap 34 of the hair cutting member 3 may be reused or replaced with a new one.

In this way, the hair cutting member 3 is removably attached to the receptacle portion 81 of the device main body 2, resulting in improved assembly and easy optical adjustment.

Although the above example has been explained assuming the user's replacement work, this improvement in assembly efficiency does not only affect the user's replacement work. It can also affect work.

By the way, the control circuit 6 of the hair cutting device 1 may determine that the hair cutting device 1 is in a specific state based on the detection result of the detection unit D1. The "specific state" as used herein is, for example, a state in which abnormality, dirt, or aging deterioration has occurred, and may also include signs of such occurrence. The hair cutting device 1 notifies the user from the notification unit 27 that the hair cutting device 1 is in a specific state. If the user learns through the notification unit 27 that, for example, the optical waveguide 4 of the hair cutting member 3 has deteriorated over time, the user replaces the hair cutting member 3.

(2.6) Control Circuit Next, the configuration of the control circuit 6 will be explained with reference to FIGS. 9 to 11.

As shown in FIG. 9, the control circuit 6 is electrically connected to a light source 21, a battery 23, a fan 24, an operation section 26, a notification section 27, and the like. In addition, the control circuit 6 connects the detection section D1, the first sensor section S11, and the second sensor section S12 via a plurality of connection lines (101, 102) when the hair cutting member 3 is attached to the device main body 2. electrically connected to each of the

The control circuit 6 includes an input section 61 , a mode switching section 62 , an output adjustment section 63 , a driving section 64 , and a determining section 65 .

Control circuit 6 includes, for example, a microcontroller having one or more processors and one or more memories. The microcontroller realizes the function of the control circuit 6 by executing programs stored in one or more memories with one or more processors. The program may be pre-recorded in a memory, or may be provided recorded on a non-temporary recording medium such as a memory card, or may be provided through a telecommunications line. In other words, the above program is a program for causing one or more processors to function as the control circuit 6.

An electrical signal corresponding to a user's operation is input to the input unit 61 from the operating unit 26 . For example, when the operation unit 26 receives an operation such as switching the main power supply on/off or switching the operation mode, an electric signal corresponding to the operation is input to the input unit 61.

The mode switching unit 62 switches the operation mode of the light source 21. In this embodiment, the light source 21 has two operating modes: a first mode and a second mode, which will be described later. The mode switching section 62 switches between the first mode and the second mode, for example, in accordance with an electrical signal from the input section 61.

The drive unit 64 drives the light source 21 by supplying power to the light source 21 . That is, the drive unit 64 supplies the drive current I1 to the light source 21 made of a semiconductor laser, thereby causing the light source 21 to emit light (light up). Here, when driving the light source 21, the driving section 64 supplies the light source 21 with a rectangular wave-like driving current I1 that alternately repeats a light-emitting period T1 and a light-off period T2, as shown in FIG. , causes the light source 21 to emit light. That is, the drive unit 64 supplies the light source 21 with a drive current I1 consisting of a pulse current, and in response to this, the light source 21 intermittently generates (blinks) light.

That is, the light source 21 emits light during the light emission period T1 of the drive current I1, and turns off during the light-off period T2 of the drive current I1, so the light source 21 intermittently generates light (blinks) in accordance with the frequency of the drive current I1. )do. In short, the light source 21 intermittently generates light by repeating the light emitting period T1 and the light extinguishing period T2. In this embodiment, as an example, it is assumed that the duty of the drive current I1 (the ratio of the light emission period T1 to one cycle) is 50%. That is, the time length of the light emission period T1 and the time length of the light-off period T2 are equal.

By the way, in this embodiment, the light source 21 has two operating modes: a first mode and a second mode.

The first mode is a mode in which the action on the skin 92 is given priority, and the time length of the light emitting period T1 is 1/10,000 second or less. That is, if the operation mode of the light source 21 is the first mode, the time length of the light emission period T1 of the light source 21 is 1/10,000 second or less. In other words, in the first mode, the drive unit 64 drives the light source 21 with the drive current I1 having a frequency of 5 kHz or more. As a result, the maximum time during which the light source 21 continuously emits light is less than 1/10,000 second (1/10,000 s). In this embodiment, as an example, when the operation mode of the light source 21 is the first mode, the time length of the light emission period T1 of the light source 21 is 1/15000 second.

The second mode is a mode that gives priority to cutting the hair 91, and is a mode in which the length of the light emitting period T1 is 1/100th of a second or more. That is, if the operation mode of the light source 21 is the second mode, the time length of the light emission period T1 of the light source 21 is 1/100th of a second or more. In other words, in the second mode, the drive unit 64 drives the light source 21 with the drive current I1 having a frequency of 50 Hz or less. As a result, the minimum time during which the light source 21 continuously emits light is 1/100 seconds or more. In this embodiment, as an example, when the operation mode of the light source 21 is the second mode, the time length of the light emission period T1 of the light source 21 is 1/80 second.

Here, the control circuit 6 includes a mode switching section 62 that switches between the first mode and the second mode. That is, in this embodiment, the operation modes of the light source 21 are a first mode in which the time length of the light emission period T1 is 1/10,000th of a second or less, and a first mode in which the time length of the light emission period T1 is 1/100th of a second or more. It is possible to switch between a certain second mode.

The output adjustment section 63 adjusts the output of the light source 21 by controlling the drive section 64 . The output of the light source 21 to be adjusted by the output adjustment unit 63 includes the light intensity (brightness) and the wavelength of light generated by the light source 21. The output adjustment section 63 adjusts the output of the light source 21, for example, according to an electrical signal from the input section 61.

In particular, in this embodiment, the power density of light passing through the optical waveguide 4 is adjusted by the output from the light source 21, as described above. Therefore, the output adjustment unit 63 adjusts the power density of the light passing through the optical waveguide 4 by adjusting the magnitude (power density) of the output of the light source 21. Specifically, the output adjustment unit 63 adjusts the power density of the light output from the light source 21 to the optical waveguide 4 by changing the magnitude of the drive current I1 supplied from the drive unit 64 to the light source 21. .

Furthermore, as described above, when the power density of the light passing through the optical waveguide 4 is variable, the change in power density is realized by the output adjustment section 63. That is, the output adjustment unit 63 changes the power density of the light passing through the optical waveguide 4 by changing the magnitude (power density) of the output of the light source 21. The output adjustment section 63 changes the output magnitude (power density) of these light sources 21, for example, according to the electrical signal from the input section 61.

Note that the output adjustment section 63 may adjust the output of the light source 21 under control from a determination section 65, which will be described later.

Next, a determination process regarding the contact state of the skin 92 in the control circuit 6 will be described.

The determining unit 65 of the control circuit 6 determines the contact state of the skin 92 with the contact surfaces (module-side contact surface 501 and cover-side contact surface 301) (execution of determination processing). Specifically, the determination unit 65 determines (estimates) that the skin 92 has switched from the non-contact state to the contact state, and that the skin 92 has switched from the contact state to the non-contact state.

In this embodiment, the determination unit 65 determines the contact state based on the electrical signal received from the sensor unit S1 (first sensor unit S11, second sensor unit S12). Based on the determination result, the determining unit 65 controls the driving unit 64 (or the output adjusting unit 63) to start driving the light source 21 to output light, or to stop driving the light source 21 ( (It may also be a reduction in optical output.)

For example, when the determination unit 65 receives an operation to switch the main power from off to on through the operation unit 26, it starts executing the contact determination process. In other words, in this embodiment, as an example, when the main power is turned on through the operation unit 26, the control circuit 6 enters a standby state in which it can start driving the light source 21. Therefore, the drive unit 64 does not immediately start driving the light source 21 even when the main power source is turned on.

When the determination unit 65 determines that the skin 92 has switched from the non-contact state to the contact state based on the detection signal from the sensor unit S1, it outputs light from the light emission module M1. In other words, the determination unit 65 causes the drive unit 64 to start driving the light source 21 . For example, when an object at ground potential such as a human body contacts (touches) the sensor portion S1, a pseudo capacitor is formed by the electrode S2 and the human body. As a result, contact with the human skin 92 appears as a change in the capacitance of each sensor section S1 (capacitor). The determination unit 65 monitors, for example, a change in voltage corresponding to a change in capacitance through the received detection signal.

The determination unit 65 determines whether the skin 92 has switched from the non-contact state to the contact state when both the voltage level of the first sensor unit S11 and the voltage level of the second sensor unit S12 (either one is acceptable) exceed a threshold. It is determined that

Further, when determining that the skin 92 has switched from the contact state to the non-contact state based on the detection signal from the sensor unit S1, the determination unit 65 limits the light output from the light emission module M1. In other words, the determination unit 65 causes the drive unit 64 to stop driving the light source 21 (the light output may be reduced). The determination unit 65 determines whether the skin 92 changes from the non-contact state to the contact state when both the voltage level of the first sensor unit S11 and the voltage level of the second sensor unit S12 (either one is acceptable) are less than a threshold. It is determined that the switch has been made.

FIG. 10A shows, as an example, a change in light output (on/off) when the skin 92 switches from a contact state to a non-contact state at time t1, and when the skin 92 switches from a non-contact state to a contact state again at time t2. This is a graph showing. That is, in the example of FIG. 10A, the determining unit 65 determines that the skin 92 has separated at time t1, and stops the light source 21 that was being driven. Further, in the example of FIG. 10A, the determination unit 65 determines that the skin 92 has been contacted at time t2, and starts driving the light source 21.

Here, the hair cutting device 1 of this embodiment detects the target light OB1 within the detection area D2 using the detection unit D1 (detection step). Specifically, the determination unit 65 performs diagnostic processing regarding the light output of the hair cutting device 1 based on the detection signal received from the detection unit D1. That is, the determination unit 65 determines whether the state regarding the light output of the hair cutting device 1 is in a specific state based on the detection result regarding the target light OB1 by the detection unit D1.

As described above, when the hair cutting device 1 is in a specific state (here, a state in which any of the light source 21, the optical system 22, the optical waveguide 4, etc. has abnormality, aged deterioration, or dirt), it is in a normal state. Compared to this, the intensity of light received by the detection unit D1 is reduced. Since a current proportional to the light intensity flows through the photodiode, the determination unit 65 receives a detection signal obtained by converting the current flowing through the photodiode into a voltage from the detection unit D1. That is, the determination unit 65 monitors, for example, changes in voltage through the received detection signal. In other words, the determination unit 65 acquires information regarding light intensity from the detection unit D1. Current-voltage conversion may be performed by the control circuit 6.

The determination unit 65 determines that when the light intensity received by the detection unit D1 is less than a predetermined value, that is, the signal level (for example, voltage) of the detection signal received from the detection unit D1 is less than the reference value Rf1 (see FIG. 10B). If this happens, it is determined that the specific state is present. In FIG. 10B, voltage value V2 is a voltage value in a normal state. Further, the voltage value V1 is a voltage value in a specific state. The reference value Rf1 is set, for example, between the voltage value V1 and the voltage value V2. The example in FIG. 10B schematically shows a change in the signal level (voltage) of the detection signal received from the detection unit D1 when the normal state changes to the abnormal state (specific state) at time t3. That is, FIG. 10B shows an example in which the voltage suddenly drops due to an "abnormality" such as a failure of the light source 21 or the drive unit 64 that drives the light source 21 or damage to the optical waveguide 4.

Incidentally, the manner in which the signal level (voltage) of the detection signal changes over time may vary depending on the type of specific state. For example, if the type of specific state is "abnormality" such as failure or damage, the "mode of change" is likely to show a rapid decline as shown in FIG. 10B. On the other hand, if the type of specific state is "contamination" of the optical waveguide 4, etc., the "mode of change" is slower than that of "abnormality", but remains constant over a period of several weeks or months, for example. is likely to show a decline in Furthermore, if the type of specific condition is aging, there is a high possibility that the deterioration will be more gradual than that of "dirt" from the start of use to the (assumed) lifespan of the optical waveguide 4 and the like. In other words, the rate of decline over time may increase in the order of "aging deterioration," "dirt," and "abnormality."

Therefore, the determination unit 65 of this embodiment is further configured to identify the type of specific state based on the mode of change regarding the light intensity of the target light OB1. Further, when the determination unit 65 determines that the type of the specific state is at least a predetermined type, the control circuit 6 further includes a restriction unit 66 (see FIG. 9) that restricts the light output from the light emission module M1. We are prepared. Here, as an example, it is assumed that the "specific type" is the above-mentioned "abnormality".

The control circuit 6 stores the cumulative usage time (cumulative driving time of the light source 21) in the memory. Further, the control circuit 6 stores in the memory the signal level (voltage) of the detection signal received from the detection unit D1 during the cumulative usage time. In short, the control circuit 6 stores performance data regarding hours of use and signal levels in memory.

Furthermore, in addition to the reference value Rf1 corresponding to, for example, "abnormality", the control circuit 6 stores in the memory a reference value Rf2 higher than the reference value Rf1 (see FIG. 10B). The determination unit 65 identifies the type of specific state based on the range in which the current signal level (voltage) is located.

For example, the determination unit 65 determines that the current voltage is "abnormal" if it is greater than or equal to 0 (zero) and less than the reference value Rf1. Further, the determination unit 65 determines that the current voltage and performance data are "stain" if the current voltage and performance data continue for a predetermined period and are greater than or equal to the reference value Rf1 and less than the reference value Rf2. Further, the determination unit 65 determines that "aging deterioration" occurs if the current voltage and performance data have gradually decreased toward the reference value Rf2 over a long period of time based on the performance data. This method of identifying the type of specific state is just one example, and is not particularly limited. The control circuit 6 stores change patterns corresponding to a plurality of types of "change modes" of a specific state in advance in a memory, finds a change pattern in the memory that is similar to the actual data, and determines the type of the specific state. may be specified.

When the determination unit 65 determines that the hair cutting device 1 is in the specific state, the control circuit 6 notifies the user from the notification unit 27 regardless of the type of the specific state, for example. However, it is preferable that the control circuit 6 changes the emitted light color or the lighting state so that the user can distinguish the type of the specified specific state. For example, the notification unit 27 lights up continuously in red if it is "abnormal", flashes in orange if it is "dirty", and lights up intermittently in orange if it is "deteriorated over time". Note that the notification unit 27 lights up continuously in green during normal operation. The notification unit 27 is not limited to providing notification regarding a specific state using an indicator light. Instead of or in addition to the indicator light, the notification section 27 may be notified by audio output if it is equipped with a speaker, or may be notified by image display if it is equipped with a liquid crystal display.

However, when the determination unit 65 of this embodiment determines that the hair cutting device 1 is in an “abnormal” (predetermined type) state, not only the user notification from the notification unit 27 described above but also the restriction unit 66 Limit output. For example, if an "abnormality" suddenly occurs while the light source 21 is being driven, the restricting unit 66 automatically stops driving the light source 21 . In other words, the restriction unit 66 causes the drive unit 64 to automatically stop supplying power to the light source 21 .

Furthermore, once an "abnormality" occurs, the restriction unit 66 does not start driving the light source 21 unless the "abnormality" is resolved. That is, if an "abnormality" occurs, the hair cutting device 1 does not allow the user to use the hair cutting device 1 any more.

"Limiting the light output" is not limited to stopping the driving of the light source 21, and when an "abnormality" occurs, the limiting section 66 can, for example, adjust the output size (power density) of the light source 21 to the output adjusting section 63. ) may be lowered. Moreover, "limitation of light output" may be applied not only to "abnormality" but also to "dirt" or "deterioration over time."

[Operation example 1]
Next, a first operational example of the hair cutting device 1 equipped with the above-mentioned control circuit 6 will be described with reference to FIG. 11. FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an operation example regarding switching of the operation mode (first mode and second mode) of the hair cutting device 1.

The hair cutting device 1 first determines whether the operation mode of the light source 21 is the first mode (ST1). At this time, if the operation mode is the first mode (ST1: Yes), the hair cutting device 1 sets the time length of the light emitting period T1 to 1/10,000th of a second or less, and uses the driving section 64 to control the light source 21. (ST2). On the other hand, if the operation mode is not the first mode (ST1: No), the hair cutting device 1 skips process ST2 and proceeds to process ST3.

In process ST3, the hair cutting device 1 determines whether the operation mode of the light source 21 is the second mode. At this time, if the operation mode is the second mode (ST3: Yes), the hair cutting device 1 sets the time length of the light emitting period T1 to 1/100th of a second or more, and uses the driving section 64 to control the light source 21. (ST4). On the other hand, if the operation mode is not the second mode (ST3: No), the hair cutting device 1 skips the process ST4 and ends the process.

The hair cutting device 1 repeatedly executes the above processes ST1 to ST4. The flowchart shown in FIG. 11 is only an example of the operation of the hair cutting device 1, and for example, the order of processing may be changed as appropriate, or processing may be added or omitted as appropriate.

[Operation example 2]
Next, a second operation example of the hair cutting device 1 equipped with the above-mentioned control circuit 6 will be described with reference to FIG. 12. FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the hair cutting device 1 regarding diagnosis processing. Here, as an example, a case will be described in which an "abnormality" occurs while the user is using the hair cutting device 1.

The hair cutting device 1 first receives an operation to turn on the main power source through the operation section 26 (ST11). The hair cutting device 1 enters a standby state, executes a determination process, and monitors the detection signal from the sensor section S1 (ST12).

When the hair cutting device 1 determines that the skin 92 is in contact based on the detection signal from the sensor unit S1 (ST13: Yes), it starts driving the light source 21 (ST14: light emission step). Note that the hair cutting device 1 continues the standby state without starting to drive the light source 21 until the skin 92 comes into contact (ST13: No).

When the light source 21 starts to be driven, the hair cutting device 1 executes a diagnostic process and monitors the detection signal from the detection section D1 (ST15: detection step). When the skin 92 enters a non-contact state based on the detection signal from the sensor unit S1 (ST16: Yes), the hair cutting device 1 stops driving the light source 21 (ST17) and ends the diagnostic process.

The hair cutting device 1 drives the light source 21 when the skin 92 is in contact (ST16: No), and when it determines that an "abnormality" has occurred based on the detection signal from the detection unit D1 (ST18: Yes). is brought to an emergency stop (ST19). Furthermore, the hair cutting device 1 notifies the user of the occurrence of "abnormality" through the notification unit 27 (ST20), and ends the diagnostic process. Thereafter, the hair cutting device 1 prohibits the start of driving the light source 21 until the "abnormality" is resolved. Note that if "abnormality" has not occurred (ST18: No), the diagnostic process is continued until the skin 92 is in a non-contact state.

The flowchart shown in FIG. 12 is only an example of the operation of the hair cutting device 1, and for example, the order of processing may be changed as appropriate, or processing may be added or omitted as appropriate. In particular, the contact state determination process using the sensor unit S1 is not essential for the hair cutting device 1 of the present disclosure and may be omitted.

(3) Effects Next, the expected effects of the hair cutting device 1 according to this embodiment will be explained.

First, the cutting of the hair 91, which is a basic function of the hair cutting device 1, is realized by the mechanism described in the section "(2.4) Usage example".

In the present embodiment, the first emitted light Op1 from the light emitting unit 40 has a wavelength of 400 nm or more and 700 nm or less, so it is easily absorbed by the chromophore contained in the hair 91, such as keratin and water. Further, at least when cutting the hair 91, the power density of the light passing through the optical waveguide 4 is 50 kW/cm ² or more. Therefore, the first emitted light Op1 emitted from the light emitting section 40 to the hair 91 can also have a power density (50 kW/cm ² or more) sufficient to cut the hair 91.

Next, the effect on the skin 92, which is a secondary function of the hair cutting device 1, will be explained. In the present embodiment, the second emitted light Op2 from the light emitting unit 40 has a wavelength of 400 nm or more and 700 nm or less, so that effects on the skin 92 such as sterilization or activation can be expected. That is, when the second emitted light Op2 emitted to the skin 92 has a wavelength of, for example, 400 nm or more and 450 nm or less, a bactericidal effect on acne bacteria and the like present on the skin 92 can be expected. In particular, as illustrated in FIGS. 8A and 8B, when there is a raised part 922 such as acne around the hair 91 on the skin 92, the second emitted light Op2 is directly emitted to the raised part 922. , more effective bactericidal effects can be expected. Furthermore, when the second emitted light Op2 has a wavelength of, for example, 450 nm or more and 700 nm or less, an activation effect on the skin 92 can be expected. That is, by emitting the second emitted light Op2 to the skin 92, the skin 92 is activated, and effects such as so-called "skin beautification effect" such as improvement of skin quality can be expected.

Furthermore, in this embodiment, as explained in the section "(2.3.8) Detection unit and detection area", the detection unit D1 and the detection area D2 are provided, so for example, the detection result of the detection unit D1 is used. can do. For example, as described in the section "(2.6) Control circuit", it is possible to determine whether an abnormality, deterioration over time, or dirt has occurred, and automatically stop the light source 21 and notify the user. As a result, there is an advantage that a hair cutting device 1 with improved reliability regarding light output can be provided.

Furthermore, the detection region D2 is disposed in a space on the one end side of the cover 30, which is the transmission destination of the light transmitted in the optical waveguide 4 in the transmission direction A2. The possibility of affecting emissions can be reduced.

Furthermore, since the target light OB1 is a part of the light that is transmitted within the optical waveguide 4 and heads toward the detection region D2, the target light OB1 is, for example, more It is possible to reduce the possibility that detection accuracy will decrease due to brightness saturation of OB1. In other words, the light intensity derived from the end surface 40B of the optical waveguide 4 may be too strong for the detection unit D1, and the control circuit 6 may be in a specific state depending on the type of specific state such as dirt or aging. There is a possibility that the accompanying change in light intensity may be overlooked. In this respect, since the target light OB1 is part of the light that is transmitted within the optical waveguide 4 and heads toward the detection region D2, brightness saturation can be suppressed.

Further, in this embodiment, since the determination unit 65 can also identify the type of specific state, the reliability regarding the optical output can be further improved. In particular, by providing the limiting section 66, it becomes possible to limit the optical output according to a predetermined type, and the reliability regarding the optical output can be further improved.

(4) Modifications This embodiment is just one of various embodiments of the present disclosure. This embodiment can be modified in various ways depending on the design, etc., as long as the objective of the present disclosure can be achieved. Furthermore, all the drawings referred to in this disclosure are schematic drawings, and the ratios of the sizes and thicknesses of each component in the drawings do not necessarily reflect the actual dimensional ratios. .

Further, the same functions as the hair cutting device 1 (particularly the control circuit 6) according to the embodiment described above may be realized by a hair cutting method, a computer program, a non-temporary recording medium recording a computer program, or the like. Modifications of the above embodiment will be listed below. The modified examples described below can be applied in combination as appropriate.

The hair cutting device 1 (particularly the control circuit 6) in the present disclosure includes a computer system. A computer system mainly consists of a processor and a memory as hardware. The function of the control circuit 6 in the present disclosure is realized by the processor executing a program recorded in the memory of the computer system. The program may be pre-recorded in the memory of the computer system, may be provided through a telecommunications line, or may be recorded on a non-transitory storage medium readable by the computer system, such as a memory card, optical disc, hard disk drive, etc. may be provided. A processor in a computer system is comprised of one or more electronic circuits including semiconductor integrated circuits (ICs) or large scale integrated circuits (LSIs). The integrated circuits such as IC or LSI referred to herein have different names depending on the degree of integration, and include integrated circuits called system LSI, VLSI (Very Large Scale Integration), or ULSI (Ultra Large Scale Integration). Furthermore, an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), which is programmed after the LSI is manufactured, or a logic device that can reconfigure the connections inside the LSI or reconfigure the circuit sections inside the LSI, may also be used as a processor. Can be done. The plurality of electronic circuits may be integrated into one chip, or may be provided in a distributed manner over a plurality of chips. A plurality of chips may be integrated into one device, or may be distributed and provided in a plurality of devices. The computer system herein includes a microcontroller having one or more processors and one or more memories. Therefore, the microcontroller is also composed of one or more electronic circuits including semiconductor integrated circuits or large-scale integrated circuits.

Moreover, it is not an essential configuration that a plurality of functions in the hair cutting device 1 are integrated into one housing. For example, the components of the hair cutting device 1 may be distributed and provided in a plurality of housings. On the contrary, a plurality of functions in the hair cutting device 1 may be integrated into one housing. Furthermore, at least some functions of the hair cutting device 1, for example, some functions of the hair cutting device 1 may be realized by cloud (cloud computing) or the like.

(4.1) First Modification A hair cutting device 1A according to a first modification of the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 13. However, regarding the following first modification, components that are substantially common to the hair cutting device 1 will be designated by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof may be omitted as appropriate.

As shown in FIG. 13, the hair cutting device 1A has an overall appearance similar to an electric shaver. The device main body 2 of the hair cutting device 1A has an elongated cylindrical shape, and a hair cutting member 3 (head) is attached to the tip of the device main body 2. In particular, the hair cutting device 1A differs from the hair cutting device 1 in that the longitudinal direction of the hair cutting member 3 (head) and the optical axis C1 of the optical waveguide 4 are perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the device main body 2.

The hair cutting device 1A includes one or more mirrors that reflect light emitted from the optical system 22 in the case 20 of the device main body 2 so as to guide it to the light receiving surface 40A in the ferrule 71. Preferably, it is provided inside the main body 2.

The hair cutting device 1A configured in this manner also includes a detection section D1, a detection region D2, and a diffusion section Y1. Therefore, it is possible to provide a hair cutting device 1A with improved reliability regarding light output.

Note that the external shape of the "hair cutting device" in the present disclosure is not limited to the shape of the hair cutting device 1 and the hair cutting device 1A, and the length in the longitudinal direction of the hair cutting member 3 (head) is It may have a T-shaped appearance that is larger than the width of the device main body 2. Further, the external shape of the "hair cutting device" may be Y-shaped, L-shaped, or card-shaped.

(4.2) Second Modification Example Hair cutting devices 1B to 1E according to a second modification example of the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 14A to 14D. However, regarding the following second modification, components that are substantially common to the hair cutting device 1 will be designated by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof may be omitted as appropriate. 14A to 14D are all enlarged views of essential parts of the detection region D2.

The hair cutting device 1B is different from the hair cutting device 1 in that the target light OB1 includes leaked light leaked from the optical waveguide 4 without being totally reflected, as shown in FIG. 14A.

Specifically, like the hair cutting device 1, the hair cutting device 1B includes a detection section D1 and a detection region D2. However, the hair cutting device 1B is equipped with a beam dump D3 instead of the diffusing section Y1 of the hair cutting device 1, and the vicinity of the tip of the optical waveguide 4 is curved within the detection area D2. This is different from the hair cutting device 1 in that the hair cutting device 1 is different from the hair cutting device 1.

The optical waveguide 4 has a curved portion 45 near the tip thereof that curves, for example, in the positive direction of the Z-axis with respect to the transmission direction A2. The curved portion 45 is arranged within the detection region D2. The curved portion 45 is designed such that the incident angle at which the light traveling along the transmission direction A2 in the core portion 41 of the optical waveguide 4 is incident on the cladding portion 42 at the curved portion 45 becomes smaller than a critical angle and cannot be totally reflected. The radius of curvature is set.

The beam dump D3 is configured to absorb/cool the light led out from the end surface 40B of the optical waveguide 4 beyond the curved portion 45. The tip of the optical waveguide 4 is connected to a beam dump D3. Beam dump D3 is placed within detection area D2. The beam dump D3 is arranged within the detection region D2, for example, on the positive side of the Z-axis with respect to the central axis of the optical waveguide 4.

The detection unit D1 is arranged within the detection region D2 at a position where it can receive the target light OB1. That is, the detection unit D1 is arranged so as to receive the target light OB1 including leaked light leaked from the optical waveguide 4 without being totally reflected from the curved part 45. The detection unit D1 is arranged within the detection region D2, for example, on the negative side of the Z-axis with respect to the central axis of the optical waveguide 4.

Also in the configuration of the hair cutting device 1B described above, since the detection section D1 and the detection region D2 are provided, for example, the detection result of the detection section D1 can be used. Therefore, it is possible to provide a hair cutting device 1B with improved reliability regarding light output. In particular, since the hair cutting device 1B utilizes leaked light, it has a relatively simple configuration and can reduce the possibility that detection accuracy will decrease due to brightness saturation of the target light OB1.

In addition, as another example of the hair cutting device 1B, instead of the curved part 45, a light-transmitting member having a refractive index higher than that of the core part 41 and the cladding part 42 is used as a light guide in the detection area D2. By arranging it in contact with the outer peripheral surface of the wave path 4, leakage light may be generated.

The hair cutting device 1C is different from the hair cutting device 1 in that, as shown in FIG. 14B, the target light OB1 includes diffused light diffused by the diffusion section Y2.

Specifically, like the hair cutting device 1, the hair cutting device 1C includes a detection section D1 and a detection region D2. However, the hair cutting device 1C transmits the light inside the optical waveguide 4 instead of the diffusing section Y1 of the hair cutting device 1 that "diffuse-reflects" the light that is transmitted through the optical waveguide 4 and enters the detection area D2. The hair cutting device 1 is different from the hair cutting device 1 in that it includes a diffusion section Y2 that "diffuses and transmits" the light that has entered the detection region D2.

The diffusing section Y2 is composed of a member having a diffusing surface Y20 that allows light (incident light) to be emitted in various directions. Diffusion section Y2 is arranged within detection region D2. In the example of FIG. 14B, the diffusion section Y2 is composed of a plate-shaped member arranged so that its thickness direction is parallel to the X axis, but the shape of the diffusion section Y2 is not particularly limited. The diffusion surface Y20 may be formed by providing, for example, a fine uneven structure on the surface of the base material of the diffusion portion Y2. The method of forming the diffusion surface Y20 is not particularly limited. Diffusion part Y2 may be comprised from frosted glass, for example.

Diffusion surface Y20 is arranged so as to face the positive side of the X-axis. The surface (incidence surface Y21) opposite to the diffusion surface Y20 of the diffusion portion Y2 faces the termination surface 40B of the tip portion of the optical waveguide 4. The direction of the optical axis C1 of the optical waveguide 4 is perpendicular to the incident plane Y21. Direct light transmitted within the optical waveguide 4 and led out from the termination surface 40B enters the entrance surface Y21 of the diffusing section Y2, and the light further transmitted through the diffusing section Y2 is diffused from the diffusing surface Y20. .

The detection unit D1 is arranged within the detection region D2 at a position where it can receive the target light OB1. That is, the detection unit D1 is arranged to receive light diffused from the diffusion surface Y20. The detection part D1 is disposed within the detection region D2, facing the diffusion surface Y20, for example, so that its thickness direction is parallel to the X-axis. That is, when viewed from the optical waveguide 4, the detection section D1 is arranged on the back side of the diffusion section Y2.

Also in the configuration of the hair cutting device 1C described above, since the detection section D1 and the detection area D2 are provided, for example, the detection result of the detection section D1 can be used. Therefore, it is possible to provide a hair cutting device 1C with improved reliability regarding light output. In particular, the hair cutting device 1C uses diffused and transmitted light, so it has a relatively simple configuration and can reduce the possibility that detection accuracy will decrease due to brightness saturation of the target light OB1.

The hair cutting device 1D is different from the hair cutting device 1 in that, as shown in FIG. 14C, the hair cutting device 1D includes a reflecting portion Y3 that performs specular reflection.

Specifically, like the hair cutting device 1, the hair cutting device 1D includes a detection section D1 and a detection region D2. However, the hair cutting device 1D is different from the hair cutting device 1 in that the hair cutting device 1D includes a reflecting portion Y3 instead of the diffusing portion Y1 of the hair cutting device 1.

The reflecting portion Y3 is composed of a mirror that specularly reflects light (incident light). Reflector Y3 is arranged within detection region D2. The reflecting portion Y3 reflects the light transmitted through the optical waveguide 4 and entering the detection region D2. Object light OB1 includes reflected light reflected by reflection section Y3.

The reflective portion Y3 has a reflective surface Y30. The reflective portion Y3 is arranged such that the reflective surface Y30 faces the termination surface 40B of the optical waveguide 4. However, the reflecting portion Y3 is arranged such that the reflecting surface Y30 is inclined with respect to the direction of the optical axis C1. Specifically, the reflective surface Y30 is inclined such that the orthogonal direction of the reflective surface Y30 forms an angle θ1 with respect to the direction of the optical axis C1. Therefore, the reflecting portion Y3 mirror-reflects the direct light transmitted within the optical waveguide 4 and led out from the termination surface 40B on the reflecting surface Y30. That is, the reflected light reflected by the reflective surface Y30 is reflected so that the direction of the optical axis C2 forms an angle θ2 with the orthogonal direction of the reflective surface Y30. This angle θ2 is equal to the angle θ1.

The detection unit D1 is arranged within the detection region D2 at a position where it can receive the target light OB1. That is, the detection unit D1 is arranged to receive the reflected light reflected by the reflective surface Y30. The detection unit D1 is arranged within the detection region D2, for example, on the negative side of the Z-axis with respect to the central axis of the optical waveguide 4 so as to face the reflective surface Y30.

Also in the configuration of the hair cutting device 1D described above, since the detection section D1 and the detection area D2 are provided, the detection result of the detection section D1 can be used, for example. Therefore, it is possible to provide the hair cutting device 1D with improved reliability regarding light output. Furthermore, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the detection accuracy will decrease due to brightness saturation of the target light OB1.

In the hair cutting device 1D, it is preferable that the detection unit D1 is arranged such that the light receiving surface D10 is shifted from the direction of the optical axis C2 of the reflected light reflected by the reflective surface Y30. In particular, it is preferable that the light-receiving surface D10 does not intersect with the direction of the optical axis C2 of the reflected light. In this case, while the reflected light reflected by the reflective surface Y30 is used, the reflected light with high light intensity along the optical axis C2 becomes difficult to be included in the target light OB1, and the detection accuracy decreases due to brightness saturation of the target light OB1. The possibility of this happening can be further reduced.

As another example of the hair cutting device 1D, the reflecting section Y3 may be composed of a half mirror. In this case, the detection section D1 may be arranged on the back side of the reflection section Y3 when viewed from the optical waveguide 4, similarly to the above-described diffusion section Y2.

As shown in FIG. 14D, the hair cutting device 1E is different from the hair cutting device 1 in that it includes a converting section Y4.

Specifically, like the hair cutting device 1, the hair cutting device 1E includes a detection section D1 and a detection region D2. However, the hair cutting device 1E is different from the hair cutting device 1 in that the hair cutting device 1E includes a converting portion Y4 instead of the diffusion portion Y1 of the hair cutting device 1.

The converter Y4 is arranged within the detection area D2. The converter Y4 includes phosphor particles Y40 that are excited by the light (excitation light) transmitted through the optical waveguide 4 and entered the detection region D2 to generate light. Object light OB1 includes light generated in converter Y4.

Specifically, the conversion unit Y4 is made of a plate-shaped wavelength conversion member including, for example, a plurality of phosphor particles Y40 and a translucent sealing layer that seals the plurality of phosphor particles Y40. configured. The converter Y4 has an entrance surface Y41 and an exit surface Y42 on both end surfaces in the thickness direction. The entrance surface Y41 faces the termination surface 40B of the optical waveguide 4. The direction of the optical axis C1 of the optical waveguide 4 is orthogonal to each of the entrance surface Y41 and the exit surface Y42.

When the direct light transmitted through the optical waveguide 4 and led out from the termination surface 40B enters the entrance surface Y41 of the conversion unit Y4, the phosphor particles Y40 absorb the excitation light and have a wavelength different from that of the excitation light. Generate light of a wavelength (for example, a long wavelength). The light then exits from the exit surface Y42 of the converter Y4. Further, among the incident light, the light that is not absorbed by the phosphor particles Y40 is emitted as it is from the output surface Y42 of the converter Y4 without undergoing wavelength conversion.

The detection unit D1 is arranged within the detection region D2 at a position where it can receive the target light OB1. That is, the detection section D1 is arranged to receive the light emitted from the output surface Y42 of the conversion section Y4. The detection unit D1 is arranged within the detection region D2 so that, for example, the light-receiving surface D10 faces the light-emitting surface Y42. Here, the light receiving surface D10 is perpendicular to the direction of the optical axis C1 of the optical waveguide 4.

Also in the configuration of the hair cutting device 1E described above, since the detection section D1 and the detection region D2 are provided, the detection result of the detection section D1 can be used, for example. Therefore, it is possible to provide a hair cutting device 1E with improved reliability regarding light output. In particular, the hair cutting device 1E utilizes the light generated by the converter Y4, so it has a relatively simple configuration and can reduce the possibility that detection accuracy will decrease due to brightness saturation of the target light OB1.

(4.3) Other Modifications The control circuit 6 of the hair cutting device 1 described above uses not only the current light intensity but also actual data (history) such as cumulative usage time to adjust the light intensity over time. The type of specific condition (abnormality, dirt, and aging deterioration) is determined from the "mode of change." However, for example, when focusing only on determining whether a specific state is "abnormal", the control circuit 6 determines the presence or absence of an "abnormality" only by comparing the current light intensity with a threshold value, without using actual data. You may.

The detection unit D1 of the hair cutting device 1 described above receives the target light OB1 which is secondary light (diffuse light), but for example, it directly receives the primary light, that is, the light that has traveled through the optical waveguide 4 and is guided out. It may also receive light. However, as described above, using the secondary light can reduce the possibility that the detection accuracy will decrease due to brightness saturation of the target light OB1. Furthermore, the life of the detection section D1 can be extended.

When the control circuit 6 detects, based on the detection signal from the detection unit D1, that the optical output has decreased due to "aging deterioration" of the optical waveguide 4 compared to the optical output at the time of manufacture and shipment, the control circuit 6 detects the decreased "deviation". Correction may be performed to offset the . That is, when the control circuit 6 detects the occurrence of "aging deterioration" of the optical waveguide 4, it may perform correction to increase the light intensity of the light source 21.

It has been explained that the hair cutting device 1 accepts switching of the main power supply on/off through the operation unit 26. However, the hair cutting device 1 may also be configured to be able to accept the start of driving the light source 21, that is, the start of light output from the light source 21, through the operation unit 26. In this case, the function of the control circuit 6 to automatically start driving the light source 21 based on the detection signal from the sensor unit S1 or to automatically limit the light output may be omitted.

Further, the hair cutting device 1 may be configured to automatically switch on/off the main power source based on the detection signal from the sensor section S1. In this case, for example, the sensor section S1 may include a switch that opens and closes contacts. In this case, in the hair cutting device 1, the sensor portion S1 closes the contact due to the pressure received from the skin 92, so that the main power source is switched on and furthermore, the driving of the light source 21 is automatically started. In this case, the user does not have to operate the operation unit 26, and usability is further improved.

The sensor section S1 may constitute an energized type sensor. For example, the pair of electrodes of the sensor section S1 (the electrode S2 of the first sensor section S11 and the electrode S2 of the second sensor section S12) may constitute an anode and a cathode, respectively. The control circuit 6 determines the contact state of the skin 92 by applying a voltage between these electrodes and detecting the current flowing between the electrodes through the human body when the skin 92 contacts these electrodes. Good too.

Further, the sensor section S1 may be a proximity sensor for detecting the proximity state of the skin 92 instead of the contact state of the skin 92. In this case, the sensor section S1 may constitute a distance sensor that detects the distance to the skin 92.

Further, the sensor section S1 may constitute a pressure-sensitive sensor whose resistance value changes upon receiving pressurization (pressure) from the skin 92.

When two or more sensor sections S1 are provided, the two or more sensor sections S1 may constitute sensors with mutually different detection methods.

For example, although it is assumed that the device main body 2 (case 20) that houses the light source 21, etc. corresponds to a grip, a grip section is provided separately from the case 20, and the case 20 and the grip section are connected. may be done. The items stored in the case 20 may be stored in a distributed manner in the case 20 and the grip portion.

Further, the operation unit 26 is not limited to a mechanical switch, and may be a touch switch, an optical or capacitive non-contact switch, a gesture sensor, or the like. Further, the operation unit 26 may be, for example, a communication unit that receives operation signals from an external terminal such as a smartphone, or a voice input unit that accepts voice operations from the user.

Further, the hair cutting device 1 may be combined with a shaver (including an electric shaver with a driven blade) that cuts the hair 91 with a physical "blade". In this case, the hair cutting device 1 has a physical "blade" in addition to the light emitting section 40, so that both the light emitted from the light emitting section 40 and the physical "blade" can be used to cut hair. Can cut 91.

Further, the optical waveguide 4 is not limited to an optical fiber in which the core portion 41 and the cladding portion 42 are made of synthetic quartz, but may be an optical fiber made of quartz (SiO ₂ ) or plastic, for example. Examples of plastic optical fibers include optical fibers in which the cladding portion 42 is made of a fluorine-based polymer or the like, and the core portion 41 is made of a fully fluorinated polymer, polymethyl methacrylate, polycarbonate, or the like. Furthermore, the optical waveguide 4 may be a slab waveguide, a rectangular optical waveguide, a photonic crystal fiber, or the like.

Further, the optical waveguide 4 only needs to have the core portion 41 as a minimum configuration, and the cladding portion 42 may be omitted as appropriate.

Further, it is not an essential feature of the hair cutting device 1 that the refractive index of the adhesive member 52 in the holding member 5 is smaller than the refractive index of the light emitting portion 40 (core portion 41). That is, the refractive index of the adhesive member 52 may be greater than or equal to the refractive index of the core portion 41.

Further, it is not an essential configuration of the hair cutting member 3 and the hair cutting device 1 that the refractive index of the fixing member F1 within the holder portion H1 is smaller than the refractive index of the core portion 41. That is, the refractive index of the fixing member F1 may be greater than or equal to the refractive index of the core portion 41. Similarly, it is not essential for the hair cutting member 3 and the hair cutting device 1 that the refractive index of the adhesive member G1 within the ferrule 71 is smaller than the refractive index of the core portion 41. That is, the refractive index of the adhesive member G1 may be greater than or equal to the refractive index of the core portion 41.

Further, the light source 21 is not limited to producing light of a single wavelength, but may emit light of a plurality of wavelengths, for example. In this case, the light source 21 may emit light of a plurality of wavelengths simultaneously or may emit light while sequentially switching between them. In this configuration, the light (first emitted light Op1) emitted from the light emitting unit 40 to the hair 91 can target a plurality of chromophores corresponding to a plurality of wavelengths, so that it can destroy the bonds of multiple types of molecules. This makes it possible to improve the cutting efficiency of the hair 91.

Further, the hair cutting member 3 may include a plurality of optical waveguides 4. In this case, the hair cutting member 3 can cut the hair 91 by emitting light to the hair 91 at each of the light emitting portions 40 of the plurality of optical waveguides 4 . Here, the plurality of optical waveguides 4 may pass light of the same wavelength, or may pass light of a plurality of mutually different wavelengths. In this case, within the ferrule 71, the plurality of optical waveguides 4 may be arranged close to the center. Alternatively, a plurality of ferrules 71 may be provided in one-to-one correspondence with the optical waveguides 4.

Further, regarding the operation mode of the light source 21, switching between the first mode and the second mode is performed manually, but the switching between the first mode and the second mode is not limited to this example. Good too. For example, the determination unit 65 may automatically switch between the first mode and the second mode depending on the contact state of the skin 92.

The battery 23 is not limited to a secondary battery, but may be a primary battery. Furthermore, the hair cutting device 1 is not limited to being battery-driven, and may operate by receiving power from an external power source such as a grid power source (commercial power source). In this case, the battery 23 as the hair cutting device 1 can be omitted.

Further, the power density of the light passing through the optical waveguide 4 may be adjusted by other than the output from the light source 21. For example, the power density of light passing through the optical waveguide 4 may be adjusted by an optical filter included in the optical system 22 or the optical waveguide 4. Alternatively, the power density of light passing through the optical waveguide 4 may be adjusted by changing the radius of curvature of the optical waveguide 4. The power density of the light passing through the optical waveguide 4 may be adjusted by exposing the core part 41 from a part of the optical waveguide 4 and leaking part of the light from the core part 41.

Further, a mirror is disposed on the termination surface 40B of the optical waveguide 4 on the opposite side to the light receiving surface 40A, and the configuration is such that the light reaching the tip of the optical waveguide 4 is reflected into the optical waveguide 4 by the mirror. Good too.

Furthermore, the function of acting on the skin 92 is merely a secondary function of the hair cutting device 1, and can be omitted as appropriate. In other words, the hair cutting device 1 only needs to have the basic function of cutting the hair 91.

Furthermore, in the comparison between two values, "more than" includes both cases where the two values are equal and cases where one of the two values exceeds the other. However, the invention is not limited thereto, and "more than" here may be synonymous with "greater than" which includes only the case where one of the two values exceeds the other. In other words, whether or not the two values are equal can be arbitrarily changed depending on the setting of a threshold value, etc., so there is no technical difference between "greater than" and "greater than". Similarly, "less than" may have the same meaning as "less than or equal to".

The hair cutting device 1 may include an attachment that is removably attached to the cover 30 of the hair cutting member 3. The attachment may increase the height of the light emitting portion 40 from the surface 921 of the skin 92.

(5) Summary As explained above, the hair cutting device (1, 1A to 1E) according to the first aspect includes a light emitting module (M1), a cover (30), a detection area (D2), and a detection area (D2). (D1). The light emitting module (M1) has an optical waveguide (4) including a core part (41), and cuts the hair (91) by emitting light to the hair (91) protruding from the skin (92). . The cover (30) is configured to cover the light emitting module (M1). The detection region (D2) is arranged within the cover (30), and the object light (OB1) caused by the light transmitted within the optical waveguide (4) passes therethrough. The detection unit (D1) detects the object light (OB1) within the detection area (D2). According to the first aspect, the hair cutting device (1, 1A to 1E) includes the detection unit (D1) that detects the target light (OB1) within the detection area (D2), so that the detection unit ( The detection result of D1) can be used. Therefore, it is possible to provide hair cutting devices (1, 1A to 1E) with improved reliability regarding light output.

Regarding the hair cutting device (1, 1A to 1E) according to the second aspect, in the first aspect, the detection area (D2) is the transmission of light transmitted within the optical waveguide (4) within the cover (30). It is arranged in a space on one end side to which direction (A2) is transmitted. According to the second aspect, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the detection region (D2) will affect the emission of light that cuts the hair (91).

Regarding the hair cutting device (1, 1A to 1E) according to the third aspect, in the first or second aspect, the target light (OB1) is transmitted through the optical waveguide (4) and reaches the detection area (D2). It is a part of the light that is heading toward us. According to the third aspect, for example, compared to the case where light directed toward the detection region (D2) is directly detected, it is possible to reduce the possibility that detection accuracy will decrease due to brightness saturation of the target light (OB1).

Regarding the hair cutting device (1, 1A to 1E) according to the fourth aspect, in the third aspect, the target light (OB1) includes leaked light that leaks from the optical waveguide (4) without being totally reflected. According to the fourth aspect, with a relatively simple configuration, it is possible to reduce the possibility that detection accuracy will decrease due to brightness saturation of the target light (OB1).

The hair cutting device (1, 1A to 1E) according to the fifth aspect further includes a diffusion section (Y1, Y2) in the third or fourth aspect. The diffusion section (Y1, Y2) is arranged within the detection region (D2) and diffusely reflects or diffusely transmits the light that has been transmitted through the optical waveguide (4) and entered the detection region (D2). The object light (OB1) includes diffused light diffused by the diffuser (Y1, Y2). According to the fifth aspect, with a relatively simple configuration, it is possible to reduce the possibility that detection accuracy will decrease due to brightness saturation of the target light (OB1).

The hair cutting device (1, 1A to 1E) according to the sixth aspect, in any one of the first to fifth aspects, further includes a converting section (Y4). The conversion unit (Y4) is arranged within the detection region (D2), and generates light by causing excitation by light (excitation light) transmitted through the optical waveguide (4) and entering the detection region (D2). Contains body particles (Y40). The object light (OB1) includes light generated in the conversion unit (Y4). According to the sixth aspect, with a relatively simple configuration, it is possible to reduce the possibility that detection accuracy will decrease due to brightness saturation of the target light (OB1).

In any one of the first to sixth aspects, the hair cutting device (1, 1A to 1E) according to the seventh aspect is disposed within the detection region (D2) and transmits through the optical waveguide (4). The sensor further includes a reflecting portion (Y3) that reflects the light that enters the detection area (D2). The object light (OB1) includes reflected light reflected by the reflecting section (Y3). According to the seventh aspect, with a relatively simple configuration, it is possible to reduce the possibility that detection accuracy will decrease due to brightness saturation of the target light (OB1).

The hair cutting device (1, 1A to 1E) according to the eighth aspect, in any one of the first to seventh aspects, further includes a determining section (65). The determination unit (65) determines whether the state regarding the light output of the hair cutting device (1, 1A to 1E) is in a specific state based on the detection result regarding the target light (OB1) by the detection unit (D1). . According to the eighth aspect, since the specific state can be determined using the detection result of the detection unit (D1), the reliability regarding the optical output can be further improved.

Regarding the hair cutting device (1, 1A to 1E) according to the ninth aspect, in the eighth aspect, the determination unit (65) further determines the specific state based on the mode of change in the light intensity of the object light (OB1). Identify the type. According to the ninth aspect, since the type of specific state can also be specified, the reliability regarding optical output can be further improved.

In the hair cutting device (1, 1A to 1E) according to the tenth aspect, in the ninth aspect, when the determining section specifies that at least the type of the specific state is a predetermined type, the light emitting module ( The device further includes a limiting section (66) that limits the light output from M1). According to the tenth aspect, it becomes possible to limit the light output according to a predetermined type, and the reliability regarding the light output can be further improved.

The hair cutting method according to the eleventh aspect includes a light emission step and a detection step. In the light emitting step, light is emitted from the light emitting module (M1) having the optical waveguide (4) including the core portion (41) to the hair (91) protruding from the skin (92). Perform the cutting. In the detection step, a detection area (D2) is arranged in a cover (30) configured to cover the light emitting module (M1) and through which the target light (OB1) caused by the light transmitted in the optical waveguide (4) passes. ) is detected. According to the eleventh aspect, the hair cutting method includes the detection step of detecting the target light (OB1) within the detection area (D2), so that the detection result of the detection unit (D1) can be utilized. Therefore, it is possible to provide a hair cutting method with improved reliability regarding light output.

The configurations according to the second to tenth aspects are not essential to the hair cutting device (1, 1A to 1E) and can be omitted as appropriate.

The hair cutting device can be applied to cutting various kinds of hair of humans or non-human animals in various fields such as home use, beauty care, medicine, or nursing care.

1,1A to 1E Hair cutting device 11 Restriction part 30 Cover 4 Optical waveguide 41 Core part 65 Judgment part 66 Restriction part 91 Hair 92 Skin A2 Transmission direction D1 Detection part D2 Detection area M1 Light emission module OB1 Target light Y1, Y2 Diffusion part Y3 Reflection section Y4 Conversion section Y40 Phosphor particles

Claims (10)

A device body corresponding to a grip,
a hair cutting member corresponding to a head attached to the device main body;
Equipped with
The hair cutting member is
a light emitting module having an optical waveguide including a core portion and cutting the hair by emitting light to the hair protruding from the skin;
a cover configured to cover the light emitting module;
a detection area disposed within the cover, through which target light caused by light transmitted within the optical waveguide passes;
a detection unit that detects the target light within the detection area;
Equipped with
Hair cutting device. The detection area is arranged in a space within the cover on one end side that is a destination of light transmitted in the optical waveguide in a transmission direction.
The hair cutting device according to claim 1. The target light is a part of the light that is transmitted within the optical waveguide and heads toward the detection area.
The hair cutting device according to claim 1 or 2. The target light includes leakage light that leaks from the optical waveguide without being totally reflected.
The hair cutting device according to claim 3. further comprising a diffusion section disposed within the detection region and configured to diffusely reflect or diffusely transmit light that has transmitted through the optical waveguide and entered the detection region;
The target light includes diffused light diffused by the diffusion section,
The hair cutting device according to claim 3 or 4. further comprising a conversion unit disposed within the detection region and including phosphor particles that are excited by light transmitted through the optical waveguide and entered the detection region to generate light;
The target light includes light generated in the conversion unit,
The hair cutting device according to any one of claims 1 to 5. further comprising a reflecting part disposed within the detection area and reflecting light transmitted through the optical waveguide and entering the detection area,
The target light includes reflected light reflected by the reflecting section.
The hair cutting device according to any one of claims 1 to 6. further comprising a determination unit that determines whether a state regarding light output of the hair cutting device is in a specific state based on a detection result regarding the target light by the detection unit;
The hair cutting device according to any one of claims 1 to 7. Furthermore, the determination unit identifies the type of the specific state based on a change in the light intensity of the target light.
The hair cutting device according to claim 8. further comprising a limiting section that limits the light output from the light emitting module when the determining section specifies that the type of the specific state is at least a predetermined type;
The hair cutting device according to claim 9.