WO2019161360A1

WO2019161360A1 - System for customizing hair dye formulations

Info

Publication number: WO2019161360A1
Application number: PCT/US2019/018488
Authority: WO
Inventors: Simon Paul Godfrey; Stephanie SITTERBERG-MUEHLTHAU; Tiziana MONACO; David Sarro; Patrick Alexander KIEFER; Juergen Schmenger; John Peter Lankhof; Laurence ARC; Duncan Shea-Simonds; Adam BRINDZA-BODNAR; Kevin Hodges
Original assignee: Coty Inc.
Priority date: 2018-02-19
Filing date: 2019-02-19
Publication date: 2019-08-22

Abstract

Systems and methods for customizing hair color formulations are described. Provided is a computer controlled hair color formulation dispensing system. Also provided is an individual liquid dispensing system for each individual base color formulation and additional formulations within the hair color dispensing system. Also provided are custom hair color formulations.

Description

SYSTEM FOR CUSTOMIZING HAIR DYE FORMULATIONS

[0001] Customers visit a hair salon to have their hair cut and styled, but also to have their hair colored. Coloring hair to the customer’s satisfaction is a difficult process. A single color may not be sufficient to deliver the exact result a hair stylist may wish to achieve on a client’s hair. Base colors of hair dye may need to be mixed to achieve the desired color. Mixing base colors to create the color the customer desires may be a difficult process on its own, but the color may also change once applied and it takes on the color of the customer’s hair as well (which may be natural or a previously applied hair color). This may be a difficult process for inexperienced stylists. Many hair colorists mix the base colors by hand with a manual assessment of how to combine the base colors. Only after the base colors are combined is the stylist able to see if the color created is truly what the stylist intended to make. When the combined color is not what is intended, the newly combined hair dye product is wasted. Overall this process may result in inconsistencies between each hair coloring session as the measurements are not precise. Additionally, once a customer finds a hair color they prefer, they may wish to purchase additional amounts of the hair color dye mixture to take home.

[0002] Provided is a method for creating a hair color formulation, comprising:

selecting a hair color with a user interface;

receiving, from the user interface, an input of at least one base color intensity for the hair color;

calculating a target amount for each base color formulation based on the plurality of base color intensities; and

dispensing the calculated target amount of each base color formulation and additional formulations to form a composite hair color hair formulation, wherein the composite hair color formulation corresponds to the selected hair color.

[0003] Also provided is a hair color dispensing system, comprising:

a user interface screen for receiving an input of a plurality of ingredient levels, wherein the screen displays a calculated color based on the plurality of ingredient levels; a dispenser comprising:

a plurality of nozzles; and

a plurality of base color formulation cartridges;

a processor; and at least one memory including instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to perform operations to:

receive, from the user interface screen, the input of ingredient levels for the displayed calculated hair color;

calculate a target amount for each base color formulation and additional formulation from the input of ingredient levels; and

transmit to the dispenser the calculated target amount for each base color formulation and additional formulation corresponding to a base color formulation and additional formulation.

[0004] Also provided is a hair color dispensing system comprising:

a user interface screen for receiving an input of a plurality of ingredient levels, wherein the screen displays a calculated color based on the plurality of ingredient levels; a dispensing controller to:

receive, from the user interface screen, the input of ingredient levels for the displayed calculated color;

for each base color formulation and additional formulation, actuate a plunger to dispense the calculated measurement amount of the base color formulation and additional formulation from a corresponding base color formulation and additional formulation cartridge.

[0005] Also provided is a liquid dispensing system comprising:

a container containing a liquid;

a first valve, connected by piping to the container, wherein the first valve only allows liquid to pass from the container;

a syringe, connected by piping to the first valve, wherein the syringe comprises: a chamber for holding liquid;

a piston for drawing liquid into the chamber and pushing liquid out of the chamber; and

a drive arrangement, connected to the piston, to control the movement of the piston;

a second valve, connected by piping to the syringe, wherein the second valve allows for liquid to pass from the syringe and pass back into the syringe, with the flow rate for the pass back amount being less than the flow rate for the pass from amount; a nozzle, connected by piping to the second valve, for dispensing the liquid;

a sensor, located beneath the nozzle, configured to measure weight applied to the sensor; and

a controller, in electronic communication with the drive arrangement of the syringe and the sensor, wherein the controller is configured to:

control the movement of the drive arrangement for piston actuation; and receive weight information from the sensor.

[0006] Also provided is a method for dispensing a liquid, comprising:

actuating a motor to pull a plunger of a syringe, wherein the motor is controlled by a computer and a liquid is drawn into the syringe from a reservoir through a first ball valve; stopping the motor when the plunger reaches a predetermined extension;

receiving, at the computer, a signal to dispense a measured amount of liquid;

actuating the motor to push the plunger of the syringe, wherein the pushing of the plunger causes the liquid to exit the syringe whereupon the liquid moves past a second ball valve and out a nozzle as the first ball valve prevent liquid from moving back to the vacuum sealed reservoir;

detecting a change in weight at a load cell, wherein the load cell is positioned below the nozzle and configured to hold a liquid receptacle;

transmitting a signal, from the load cell to the computer, wherein the signal contains weight data;

stopping the motor, based on a control from the computer, upon when the computer determines the weight data received from the load cell indicates the measured amount of liquid has been dispensed; and

actuating the motor to pull the plunger of the syringe to remove liquid remaining in the nozzle, wherein the second ball valve allows for minimal reverse liquid movement.

[0007] Also provided is a formulation dispensing system comprising:

a bladder containing a formulation;

an adjustable volume, connected by piping to the bladder, wherein the piping connection to the bladder is able to hold an air vacuum of - 0.1 bar for 30 minutes and wherein the adjustable volume is comparable in volume to the maximum amount of formulation for a single dispense;

a nozzle, in communication with the adjustable volume by piping via a pump, wherein the pump is associated to a motor which may move both forwards and backwards: a load cell, located beneath the nozzle, configured to measure weight applied to the load cell; and

a computer, in electronic communication with the motor associated with said pump and the load cell, wherein the computer is configured to:

control the movement of the motor for dispensing formulation via the nozzle; and receive weight information from the load cell.

[0008] These and other aspects of the invention disclosed herein will be set forth in greater detail as the patent disclosure proceeds.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] In the drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, like numerals may describe similar components in different views. Like numerals having different letter suffixes may represent different instances of similar components. The drawings illustrate generally, by way of example, but not by way of limitation, various embodiments discussed in the present document.

[0010] FIG. 1 illustrates the front side of a hair color dispensing system in accordance with some embodiments.

[0011] FIG. 2 illustrates an open hair color dispensing system 200 in accordance with some embodiments.

[0012] FIG. 3 A and FIG. 3B illustrate a formulation cartridge and the bladder contained within a formulation cartridge in accordance with some embodiments.

[0013] FIG. 4 illustrates a liquid dispensing system in accordance with some

embodiments.

[0014] FIG. 5 illustrates an example of the components for a hair color dispensing system in accordance with some embodiments.

[0015] FIG. 6 illustrates an example of a display screen with a graphical user interface for a hair color dispensing system in accordance with some embodiments.

[0016] FIG. 7 illustrates a flow chart showing a technique for creating a composite hair dye with a hair color dispensing system, in accordance with some embodiments.

[0017] FIG. 8 illustrates a flow chart showing a technique for dispensing a liquid with a liquid dispensing system, in accordance with some embodiments.

[0018] FIG. 9 illustrates a liquid dispensing system in accordance with some embodiments. [0019] FIG. 10 illustrates a block diagram of an example machine upon which any one or more of the techniques (e.g., methodologies) discussed herein may perform, in accordance with some embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0020] While the specification concludes with claims, which particularly point out and distinctly claim the invention, it is believed the present invention will be better understood from the following description.

[0021] Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art.

[0022] As used in the specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an" and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise

[0023] The term“may” in the context of this application means“is permitted to” or“is able to” and is a synonym for the term“can.” The term“may” as used herein does not mean possibility or chance.

[0024] The term and/or in the context of this application means one or the other or both. For example an aqueous solution of A and/or B means an aqueous solution of A alone, an aqueous solution of B alone and an aqueous solution of a combination of A and B.

[0025] As used herein the term“hair” to be treated may be“living” i.e. on a living body or may be“non-living” i.e. in a wig, hairpiece or other aggregation of non-living keratinous fibers. Mammalian, such as human hair, is preferred. However wool, fur, and other keratin containing fibers are suitable substrates for the compositions according to the present invention. The terms“root”,“hair roots”,“root hair line” and“virgin hair” all refer to hair which has not been previously treated with a hair coloring composition. The terms“hair dye dispensing system” and“hair color dispensing system” may be used interchangeably. The terms“hair color formulation” and“hair dye formulation” may be used interchangeably and refer in general to a substance used for coloring hair. The term“base color formulation” and “base color dye” refers to an individual hair color formulation, untouched since manufacture, which may be mixed with other formulations to create a desired“final hair color

formulation”. The plurality of“base color formulations” may be the non-Newtonian fluids formulations which are used to create a“final hair color formulation” for application to a client’s hair. A“base color” being a representation of the“base color formulation” such as on a display screen or in a computer system. The terms“final hair color formulation”,“hair dye formulation”, and“hair color formulation” refer to the dispensed product for achieving a desired hair color. A“final hair color formulation” may comprise one or more“base color formulations”, and additional formulations. Additional formulations may include: a low or no color formulation which may be used to dilute the effect of the base color formulations to enable less intense color results, a hair conditioner formulation or formulations, a perfume formulation, formulations which may contain a hair and or scalp active or actives, formulations which may contain alkali or acid materials to control the pH and performance of the final hair color formulation, and formulations which may comprise an oxidant, for example hydrogen peroxide. The base color formulations and additional formulations are designed to be compatible so that mixtures provide consistent final hair color formulation properties.

[0026] Systems and methods for customizing hair color formulations are described herein. The systems and methods herein describe a computer controlled hair color formulation dispensing system. The systems and methods herein also describe an individual liquid dispensing system for each individual base color formulation and additional formulations within the hair color dispensing system. Also provided are custom hair color formulations prepared using the methods and systems described herein.

[0027] The hair color dispensing system automatically dispenses base color formulations based on a calculated recipe of amounts to create the desired final hair color formulation. Instead of the hair colorists being tasked with manually measuring amounts of the base color formulations to create a desired final hair color formulation, the hair color dispensing system may dispense precisely measured base color formulation amounts for consistent production of final hair color formulations. The hair color dispensing system may also calculate the correct ratio of base color formulation amounts such that a final hair color formulation may be dispensed for a one time use or for multi-uses, such as for home use by the customer.

[0028] The hair color dispensing system assists the operator, such as a hair colorist, with the challenge of consistently mixing the same final hair color formulation each time a customer visits the hair colorist. A more difficult challenge for the hair colorist may be determining the formulation for a desired hair color the first time a customer visits the hair colorist.

[0029] The hair color dispensing system includes a graphical user interface (GUI) for the hair colorist to adjust different base color formulation levels until the desired color is found. The GUI may include a general intensity or brightness adjustment for the composite color. The general intensity adjustment may control the amount of the additional formulation with low or no color that is added to the final hair color formulation. Based on the input desired color, the hair color dispensing system may calculate the appropriate ratio of base color formulations to create a final hair color formulation for the desired hair color. The intensity of each color in the composite color may correspond to a percentage of the base color formulation comprising the final hair color formulation. For example, a final hair color formulation may comprise 25% brown base color, 25% yellow base color, and 50% of the low or no color formulation. The hair colorist may adjust the brown base color to increase the intensity of the red color in the final hair color formulation. The increased brown base color intensity may result in final hair color formulation comprising 30% brown base color, 25% yellow base color, and 45% of the low or no color formulation.

[0030] FIG. 1 illustrates the front side of a hair color dispensing system 100 in accordance with some embodiments. The hair color dispensing system 100 includes a housing 105 for holding the base color formulations and additional formulations, the dispensing nozzle system for each base color formulation and additional formulations, and the control computer. The front of the housing 105 for the hair color dispensing system 100 may include the display screen 110 for the GUI and an opening 115 for the placement of a container 125, such as a bowl, bottle, jar, pouch, tube, etc., to receive the base color formulations and additional formulations for the final hair color formulation. The container 125 is placed on a load cell 130 that may measure the weight of the container 125 and any dispensed formulations. Located above the container placement area may be nozzles 120 for each of the base color formulations and additional formulations.

[0031] The exterior of the housing may have a display screen 110 for displaying the GUI. The display screen 110 may be a touch screen allowing a user to manipulate controls on the screen with a touch from their finger. The hair color dispensing system may also have a keyboard and mouse attached for a user to interface with the GUI. The housing may also have a set of proprietary controls for a user to interface with the GUI. For example, the exterior of the housing may have a dial for each of the base colors, for which a user may turn to adjust the level of the corresponding base color shown on the display screen. The GUI may also be accessed by and/or displayed on communications devices (e.g., smartphones, personal computers, tablet computers, personal digital assistants), server computers, and/or communications networks.

[0032] The GUI is connected to a control computer held within the housing. The control computer generates the images for display on the GUI display. The control computer receives input from the GUI for the desired hair color input by a user. The control computer may also generate messages to be displayed on the GUI display, such as when a base color formulation is low or if a problem has been detected with the dispensing system. The control computer, based on the input received for a desired hair color and the intended uses of the final hair color formulation (e.g., one time use or multi-use), calculates the amount of each base color formulation and additional formulation, for example the no color or low color formulation to dilute the color intensity to dispense to create a final hair color formulation for the desired color. The final hair color formulation may include additional formulations, for example a hair conditioner. The control computer may determine the amount of hair conditioner to dispense for the intended use of the final hair color formulation.

[0033] The hair color dispensing system may be configured to include additional additives within the final hair color formulation. These additives may include a choice of hair conditioner, a choice of perfume or fragrance, or a choice of a hair enhancement, such as adding glitter. Other additives include, without limitation, preservatives,

colorants, fillers/powders, buffers, chelators (such as EDTA and salts thereof, particularly sodium and potassium salts), reducing agents, plasticizers, softeners, antifoaming agents, inorganic colloids, peptizing agents, pearlescent agents, penetrants, opacifying agents, and any other additive or adjuvant conventionally used in cosmetic compositions intended to be applied to the hair. When these optional additives are available, the control computer may generate selection options to be displayed on the GUI. The control computer may receive input from the GUI when a user selects one of these options. The control computer may then determine the correct amount of the optional additive to include with the amount of dispensed final hair color formulation. In some embodiments, e.g., with a moisture shot, the operator may choose or adjust the amount of the optional additive.

[0034] FIG. 2 illustrates an open hair color dispensing system 200 in accordance with some embodiments. The hair color dispensing system 200 may include a door 205 for access to the formulation cartridges 210. The housing 215 of the hair color dispensing system 200 may include slots inside for holding the formulation cartridges. The housing may include multiple shelving levels with defined slots to secure a placement of each formulation cartridge 210.

[0035] FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B illustrate a formulation cartridge 300 and the bladder

310 contained within a formulation cartridge in accordance with some embodiments. A formulation cartridge 300 may have a housing 305 made of a sturdy material, such as cardboard or plastic, to create a defined shape, such as a rectangular box. The defined housing 305 may contain a bladder 310 filled with the formulation. The bladder 310 may comprise a bladder bag 320, and a pipework interface adapter 315. The housing 305 provides protection for the bladder 310 during transportation and ease of placement in the hair color dispensing system. The formulation cartridges 300 may hold ingredients such as base color formulations and additional formulations such as the low or no dye formulations, hair conditioner formulations, a perfume or fragrance formulations, or hair and scalp active formulations. The formulations cartridges may be between 0.05 and 10 Liters in volume. In one embodiment may be between 0.10 and 7.5 Liters, or between 0.15 and 5 Liters. The formulation cartridges 300 may be clear or have a hole for viewing the bladder 310 so a user may determine the amount of formulation in the bladder 310. The hair color dispensing system housing may have a light sensor for viewing the formulation level.

[0036] The lower portion of the bladder 310 in each formulation cartridge 300 may have a pipework interface adapter 315 connected to it. The pipework interface adapter 315 extends through the housing 305 and is the point from which the ingredients of the bladder 310 may flow. The pipework interface adapter 315 allows for the formulation cartridge 300 to dock with pipework of the hair color dispensing system. In an embodiment, the pipework interface adaptor 315 and the pipework of the hair color dispensing system fit together such that an airtight seal is formed. The airtight seal may maintain a pressure of -0.20 bar for a period of at least 30 minutes. The airtight seal prevents air ingress into the product, and may ensure that the formulation cartridge 300 is sufficiently emptied before it needs to be changed. In an embodiment, the hair color dispensing system may determine the formulation cartridge 300 is empty and should be replaced when less than 10% of the original fill volume is left in the formulation cartridge 300. In one embodiment, the hair color dispensing system may determine the formulation cartridge 300 is empty and should be replaced when less than 5% of the original fill volume is left in the formulation cartridge 300. In a one embodiment, the hair color dispensing system may determine the formulation cartridge 300 is empty and should be replaced when less than 3% of the original fill volume is left in the formulation cartridge 300, which minimizes waste as well as provides cost savings and environmental benefits. The pipework interface adapter 315 is connected to the lower portion of the bladder bag 320 to allow for gravity to help the flow of the ingredient. The pipework interface adapter 315 may be self- sealing such that if the formulation cartridge 300 is removed from the hair color dispensing system, the bladder bag 320 is sealed for later use.

[0037] The formulation cartridge 300 and hair color dispensing system may be configured such that the installation of the correct formulation cartridge 300 into the correct location within the hair color dispensing system may be“mistake-proof’ by preventing the wrong color being added to the mixture. For example, each formulation cartridge 300 may be configured such that it may only be installed in a unique location within the hair color dispensing system. In an example, the outer edge of the formulation cartridge 300 may be configured with a set of holes 325 arranged in a unique configuration for each unique formulation. Inside the hair color dispensing system, where the cartridges dock into place, the dock surface may have a reciprocal system to complement the cartridge holes 325. This reciprocal system may comprise protuberances which may be accommodated within the set of holes 325. The unique configuration of protuberances and holes 325 for each base color may be used to ensure that the correct base color formulation cartridge 300 is placed only in the designated slot for that base color. If the holes 325 for a base color formulation cartridge 300 do not properly line up with the protuberances at a cartridge slot, then the formulation cartridge 300 will not fit securely in the cartridge slot and a user may recognize the formulation cartridge 300 is not the appropriate base color for the cartridge

slot. Alternatively, a near field communication (NFC) approach may be built into the cartridges and hair color dispensing system. The NFC may provide feedback through an alarm or an alert on the GUI if the wrong base color formulation cartridge 300 is placed into the wrong dock location. A mistake proof system for the connection of the base color formulation cartridges is important for correct color dispensing performance with the final hair color formulation, but also to ensure that such final hair color formulations comply with local regulatory needs. Two or more docks may be configured to accept the same

formulation cartridge. For example, if the additional formulation with low or no color is anticipated to be used more than the base color formulations, two or more docks may be dedicated to accepting these cartridges to provide an easier user experience. In some embodiments, the cartridges may include a lot or batch number, which in some embodiments, may be provided as a bar code reading.

[0038] Between a dispensing nozzle and the formulation cartridge may be a liquid dispensing system. The liquid dispensing system is a controlled means for extracting a viscous liquid from a formulation cartridge and dispensing a precision amount of the liquid through a nozzle. The liquid dispensing system is configured to dispense a liquid formulation to less than 0.5 gram, such as less than 0.4 gram, for example, less than 0.3 gram, such as less than 0.2 gram, for example, 0.1 gram of precision and includes a mechanism to prevent drips once the dispensing has ended. A liquid dispensing system may be connected to each formulation cartridge in the hair color dispensing system, including formulation cartridges for base color formulations and additional formulations. [0039] FIG. 4 illustrates a liquid dispensing system 400 in accordance with some embodiments. The control computer 405 controls the flow of liquid and how much is dispensed. When a dispense sequence is activated, the control computer 405 activates a motor 410 connected to the syringe 415 to begin the extraction procedure. The motor 410 may cause the plunger 420 to move downward. The suction created by the plunger

420 moving downward will pull liquid from the formulation cartridge 425 through the pipework interface adapter 430 and into the pipework 435 of the liquid dispensing system 400. The liquid is pulled through pipework A 435 and the first one-way ball valve 440. The first one-way ball valve 440 only allows liquid to move from the formulation cartridge 425 and into the syringe 415, through pipework A 435 and pipework B 445. When control computer 405 determines an appropriate amount of liquid has been received in the syringe 415, the liquid dispensing system 400 begins the dispensing procedure.

[0040] The dispensing procedure begins with the control computer 405 controlling the motor 410 to reverse the movement of the plunger 420 in the syringe 415 so that the plunger 420 is now pushing the contents of the syringe 415. As the plunger 420 pushes the liquid contents of the syringe 415, the liquid enters pipework B 445 and pipework C 450. The first one-way ball valve 440 prevents the liquid from entering pipework A 435 and returning to the formulation cartridge 425. The liquid is then forced from pipework C 450 through the second one-way ball valve 455 and into pipework D 460 such that the liquid may be dispensed from the nozzle 465. The liquid is dispensed from nozzle 465 into the receiving container 470, such as a bowl, bottle, jar, pouch, tube, etc. The receiving container 470 is placed on a load cell 475. The load cell 475 contains sensors to detect weight applied to the load cell 475. The load cell 475 is in communication with the control computer 405 and transmits weight data to the control computer 405 when liquid is being dispensed. When the control computer 405 determines the weight detected by the load cell 475 is equal to the amount of liquid to be dispensed, the control computer 405 signals the motor 410 to cease pushing the plunger 420. The control computer 405 then signals the motor 410 to retract the plunger 420 such that it pulls liquid back into the syringe. The second one-way ball valve 455 allows for some return of liquid. With the return allowed by the second one-way ball valve 455, when the plunger 420 retracts and pulls the liquid, any excess liquid remaining on the end of the nozzle 465 will be returned to inside the nozzle 465. In an embodiment, the pull back of excess liquid is about 0.1 grams. This pull back of excess liquid on the nozzle 465 prevents drips of the excess liquid falling into the receiving container 470 after the target weight has been achieved. The prevention of excess drips assists in the precision of the delivery for each ingredient in the final hair color formulation.

[0041] In an embodiment, the syringe 415 may be primed with the liquid ingredient before a dispense request is made. The control computer 405 may signal the motor 410 to fully extract the plunger 420 such that the syringe 415 will completely fill with the liquid ingredient. This results in the syringe 415 being primed for the next dispense request. The control computer 405 monitors the extraction point of the plunger 420. If the control computer 405 determines the plunger 420 was not able to fully extract, this may indicate the ingredient cartridge 425 is empty as there was no more liquid ingredient to be drawn into the syringe 415. Based on this determination, the control computer 405, may signal the ingredient pack 425 is empty and needs to be changed, for example, by displaying a message on the display screen.

[0042] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4, the formulation cartridge may comprise any container that allows the liquid to be drawn out of it by a vacuum pressure. The container may comprise any container that allows the liquid volume to decrease, without exposing the liquid to ambient air. For example, the container may have fixed walls on all but one side, with one side moveable as the liquid volume decreases.

[0043] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4, the ball valves may comprise any type of one-way valves that are capable of only allowing the liquid to flow in substantially in one direction. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4, the first valve does not allow any return, while the second valve allows some return to reduce the volume of liquid in the pipework 460 and outlet 465 to avoid unwanted dripping and optionally to remove all the liquid to prevent its exposure to ambient air, which may degrade the liquid. The second one-way valve allows limited return during application of negative pressure in the chamber of the syringe, which is when the liquid is drawn into the syringe chamber from the container or cartridge. The first one-way valve prevents the liquid from being driven back into the container when the liquid is pressured for output from the nozzle 465.

[0044] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4, the syringe may be replaced with an alternative arrangement for generating a negative pressure to draw in the liquid and a positive pressure to expel the liquid from the nozzle. A structure comprising a piston moving in a reciprocal manner in a chamber may be used. The structure may hold the liquid from the container or cartridge so that liquid is always available for dispensing even when the container or cartridge is empty. [0045] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4, the motor 410 may comprise any drive arrangement or actuator and may comprise a hydraulic arrangement, or an electric

arrangement.

[0046] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4, the load cell 475 may comprise any form of sensor for measuring weight or a force applied under gravity and may comprise a piezo arrangement or an electromechanical arrangement.

[0047] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4, the formulation cartridge or container, may include a mechanical, electrical, electromagnetic, optical or magnetic element and the system may include a mechanical arrangement adapted to only mechanically mate with one type of cartridge or container or any one of a group of cartridges of containers, or a sensor arrangement to sense an electrical, electromagnetic, optical or magnetic element on the cartridge or container to enable the computer control 405 to determine whether the cartridge or container is one that is compatible with or permitted to be fitted to the port or interface adapter 430. This may avoid the fitting of incorrect cartridges or containers.

[0048] FIG. 5 illustrates an example of the components for a hair color dispensing system

500 in accordance with some embodiments. The components of a hair color dispensing system 500 may include a control computer 505. The control computer 505 may generate the GUI for a user to interface with the hair color dispensing system. A user may interact with the GUI on the display screen 510 attached to the housing of the hair color dispensing system. A user may also interact with the GUI on a mobile device such as a smartphone 515 or tablet or other communications device (e.g., personal computers, personal digital assistants), server computers, and/or communications networks, which may connect to the control computer 505 over a wireless network, such as Wi-Fi or BLUETOOTH®. The control computer 505 may receive input from the GUI, such as the display screen 510 or smartphone 515 or other communications device, and based on the input the control computer may determine the amount of ingredients necessary to create a final hair color formulation. The control computer 505 may initiate a dispense sequence for the final hair color

formulation. The control computer 505 controls each of the liquid dispensing systems, such as dispense system 1 525, dispense system 2 530, and dispense system 3 535. A hair color dispensing system may have any number of liquid dispensing systems, dependent upon the number of color combinations and optional additives the hair color dispensing system is configured to support. The control computer 505 communicates with the load cell 540 to receive weight information from the load cell 540. Based on the information received from the load cell 540, the control computer 505 controls the flow of liquid from a liquid dispensing system, such as dispense system 1 525.

[0049] This embodiment may use a plurality of the embodiments of FIG. 4 in parallel under the control of a common control computer 505. Each dispense system may be configured to be suited to dispense a particular liquid to allow the dispensing of the final formulation. The dispense systems may include mechanical, electrical, electromagnetic, optical or magnetic element described above with reference to FIG. 4 to avoid the fitting of incorrect cartridges or containers.

[0050] FIG. 6 illustrates an example of a display screen 600 with a graphical user interface (GUI) for a hair color dispensing system in accordance with some embodiments.

The display screen 600 may display controls for adjusting hair dye base colors to achieve a desired result color 615. The display screen 600 may show a plurality of base colors, such as violet, red, and yellow. Each of the base colors has a scale 605 for the amount of each base color to add. A user may adjust the amount of each base color by moving an indicator 610 along the scale 605. As the indicator 610 is adjusted for each base color, the result color 615 changes with the adjustments. In some embodiments, the control computer allows for a pre- specified maximum amount of dyes, e.g., 30% of the final formulation. When a user has adjusted the indicators 610 for each base color to their preference to find a desired result color 615, the user may select the finalize button 620. Selecting the finalize button 620 indicates to the control computer that the user has created a color they desire. The control computer may store the levels of each base color as indicated by the user’s adjustments.

[0051] In some embodiments, the control computer may then display a new GUI screen which would allow the user to choose a fragrance or perfume, such as bergamot, orchids, or woods. Alternatively, no fragrance can be added. In addition, the user can choose the amount of conditioning ingredient to be added to the formulation, e.g., a single moisture shot, a double shot, or a triple shot. The control computer may then display a new GUI screen which would allow the user to name the color they have created and choose between dispense methods. In some embodiments, the user may choose salon service, i.e., the total amount of product dispensed will be what the user had input previously. In some embodiments, the user may choose“take home” wherein the software automatically brings the total amount to a predefined value, e.g., 200 g, by re-calculating the ingredient amounts to keep the same ratio designed by the stylist.

[0052] In some embodiments, after the formulation is dispensed into the container, the user may wish to make small adjustments, e.g., the user may wish to add additional base color or a fragrance. Alternatively, the user may wish to modify the conditioning ingredient, e.g., from a single shot to a double shot or vice versa. In some embodiments, a new GUI screen may be displayed which would allow the user to make such modifications.

[0053] In some embodiments, the GUI screen may display a calculated preview image of the composite color based on the ingredient levels chosen by the user. In some embodiments, a color chart is provided wherein each of the colors in the chart is associated with a specific recipe. The user or customer reviews the color chart and identifies the color of interest. The hair color dispensing system then provides the appropriate levels of ingredients to create the final hair color formulation.

[0054] In some embodiments, the color of the final hair color formulation may be predicted, e.g., by using the Kubelka Munk theory. In this approach the reflectance spectrum R(/ 1), is given by:

where l represents the wavelength of visible light and K/S is given by the following expression:

where K(l)kophpΐa is the molar absorbance term for each of the formulation component as a function wavelength, S(k)_Konmiia is the molar scattering term of the absorbing species for each formulation component and C_Formuia is the effective concentration of the formulation component within the total composition.

[0055] The term R(A) may optionally be converted from a theoretical reflectance spectrum R rheory to a measured reflectance spectrum Rmeasured, using the Saunderson equation or other similar conversion to account for surface effects.

[0056] Here Rtheory is the theoretical reflection value and Rmeasured is the expected measured value after taking into account surface Fresnel reflectance effects due to refractive index differences between the formulation and air, and where a is the relative proportion of specular reflection which propagates into the spectrophotometer at each wavelength, and F(A)i_nt is the internal Fresnel reflectance between the formulation and the boundary region of the formulation and F(Z)_ext is the external Fresnel reflectance from the outside of the formulation.

[0057] When the R(Z) has been computed for the given formulation, it is then possible to transpose this spectrum into an RGB representation of the color to display on screen. The following approach is used.

[0058] The tristimulus values are obtained via:

where I is the wavelength dependent spectral power density of a light source and x, y and z are the selected CIE color matching function used within the given comparison and where

where R(Z) is reported as a fraction of light reflected at a given wavelength. The terms Xs/Xw, Ys/Yw and Zs/Zw can then be used to convert to RGB or sRGB color spaces.

[0059] In some embodiments, an alternative mathematical color models may be utilized, for example, Beer's law, the Tolenaar-Ernst equationthe Murray-Davies equation, the Yule-Nielsen equation, the Noffke-Seymour equation, and the Neugebauer equation or any of many modifications of the Neugebauer equation as are known in the art, among others.

[0060] The hair color dispensing system may provide features on the GUI to allow for the input of customer information and preferences. The hair stylist or any user of the hair color dispensing system may enter data associated with the custom hair color formulation such as the customer name, the customer’s hair length, a name for the custom hair color formulation, the date the custom final hair color formulation was created, and other means for identifying the customer, such as a phone number. A user may also input images associated with a customer or final hair color formulation. Images may include the final hair color formulation and the customer’s hair, before and after application of the final hair color formulation. The hair color dispensing system may include a camera for capturing images of the customer.

The hair color dispensing system may receive images from a smartphone or tablet over a wireless network.

[0061] The entered data along with the specifications for the customer hair color formulation may be stored in a database. The hair color dispensing system may have a local database for storing customer information and associated final hair color formulations. The hair color dispensing system may connect to a server over a network and store the customer information and associated final hair color formulations on a remote database. The remote database may be accessed by multiple hair color dispensing systems. For example, a customer may create a final hair color formulation with a first hair color dispensing system at a first salon and later may visit a second hair salon with a second hair color dispensing system which may access the remote database and retrieve the information for the final hair color formulation created on the first hair color dispensing system, such as a formula identification code.

[0062] Data collected by the hair color dispensing system may have multiple uses. In an example, for a salon that utilizes the hair color dispensing system, it may be used to store information for their clients and the client’s service history with the hair color dispensing system. When hair color dispensing systems are used at multiple salons, such as a chain of salons, analysis may be performed using the metadata. For example, the salons may compare the usage of the hair color dispensing system between salons, between stylists across salons or within the same salon. This may be used, for example, to prompt training of salon staff to incorporate the use the hair dye system within their work and instruct salon staff such that the usage is comparable to best in class salons or stylists that utilize the hair color dispensing system. By collecting information on the products and final hair color formulations created with the hair color dispensing system, it may provide data on trends in real time as the type of products created change, both on a global and regional level. This aggregated data may be used to share the trends with the salons and provide the salons with recommendations for new formulations to create on the hair color dispensing system. [0063] The hair color dispensing system may provide features on the GUI to allow for the input of the number of uses the final hair color formulation is intended. At a salon, as a customer is getting their hair done, the hair stylist may request a one-time use dispensing of the final hair color formulation. As an example, once the customer determines they are satisfied with the hair color formulation, the hair stylist may request a multi-use dispensing before the customer leaves or the next time the customer visits the salon. The hair stylist may specify a small amount of the final hair color formulation, such as for touching up roots, or the hair stylist may specify a specific number of uses. Based on the number of uses specified, the hair color dispensing system may calculate the amount of each ingredient to dispense based on the ratio of ingredients used to create the final hair color formulation. When a final hair color formulation is dispensed for a customer to take home, the final hair color formulation may be placed into a container for storage. The product may be mixed within the hair color dispensing system. The hair color dispensing system may generate and print a label for the container. The label may contain information such as the customer’s name, the name of the created final hair color formulation, formula identification, batch number, the name and logo of the salon, the name of the hair colorist, the date the final hair color formulation was dispensed, any necessary health warnings, instructions for applying the final hair color formulation, and the listing of ingredients in correspondence with the local interpretation of the International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients (INCI). The INCI listing may be created using the data associated with the final hair color formulation recipe. The hair color dispensing system computes the ingredients and levels of each formulation within the final hair color formulation, and generates the INCI declaration in accordance with local regulations.

[0064] FIG. 7 illustrates a flow chart showing a technique 700 for creating a composite hair dye with a hair color dispensing system. The technique 700 includes an operation 702 to select a hair dye color with a user interface. The user interface may present a plurality of base colors, from which a user may adjust the amount or intensity of the base color present in the resulting hair color. As a user adjusts the intensity for the plurality of colors, the resulting composite color may be displayed to the user. The technique 700 includes an operation 704 to receive, from the user interface, an input of a plurality of base color intensities for the hair dye color. The hair color dispensing system may receive the intensities for each base color in a numeric form, such as on a scale of 1 to 100 or as a ratio for each of the base colors. The technique 700 includes an operation 706 to calculate a target amount for each base color formulation based on the plurality of base color intensities. The calculation can be performed locally in the dispensing system or remotely with the results then communicated to the dispensing system. Based on the intensities for each of the base colors and the amount of a composite hair dye to create (e.g., one-time use, multi-use), the hair color dispensing system may calculate a target amount of each base color formulation to dispense. The technique 700 includes an operation 708 to dispense the calculated target amount of each base color formulation, optionally with additional additives, to form a composite final hair color composition. In some embodiments, the calculated target amount of each base color formulation and additional formulation is for a single use of the composite hair color formulation. In some embodiments, the calculated target amount of each base color formulation and additional formulation is for multiple uses of the composite hair color formulation.

[0065] FIG. 8 illustrates a flow chart showing a technique 800 for dispensing a liquid with a liquid dispensing system. The technique 800 includes an operation 802 to actuate a motor to pull a plunger of a syringe, wherein the motor is controlled by a computer, such as in some embodiments, a vending machine controller, and the liquid is drawn into the syringe from a reservoir through first ball valve. The reservoir may be a bladder, such as a plastic bag that is vacuum sealed with the liquid contained within. The technique 800 includes an operation 804 to stop the motor when the plunger reaches a predefined maximum extension. The technique 800 includes an operation 806 to receive, at the control computer, a signal to dispense a measured amount of liquid. A system, such as the hair color dispensing system may employ multiple liquid dispensing systems for each of the base color formulations, which may function to keep reactive species or colors from mixing and reduces the potential for trace amounts of the wrong ingredient in the final product. Upon receiving a request for a composite hair color, the hair color dispensing system may calculate a measured amount of base color formulation to dispense and send a signal to the control computer so that the base color formulation may be dispensed. The technique 800 includes an operation 808 to actuate the motor to push the plunger, wherein the pushing of the plunger causes the liquid to exit the syringe and move past a second ball valve and out a nozzle as the first ball valve prevents liquid from moving back to the reservoir. When the plungers pushed the liquid from the syringe, the liquid is forced towards the two ball valves. The first ball valve prevents the liquid from moving into the reservoir, thus the liquid is forced to move past the second ball valve which allows for liquid to move in that direction. The technique 800 includes an operation 810 to detect a change in weight at a load cell, wherein the load cell is positioned below the nozzle and configured to hold a liquid receptacle. The load cell may hold a container such as a bowl, bottle, jar, pouch, tube, etc.. The load cell has a weight sensor, thus as the liquid is dispensed and is received into the receptacle on the load cell, the load cell records a change in weight. The load cell may be configured with a volume sensor to determine the volume of liquid dispensed. The technique 800 includes an operation 812 to transmit a signal, from the load cell to the control computer, wherein the signal contains data associated to the weight. As the load cell detects a change in weight, the change in weight data is sent to the control computer. The technique 800 includes an operation 814 to stop the motor when the control computer determines the weight data received from the load cell indicates the measured amount of liquid has been dispensed. The control computer may stop the dispensing of the liquid by halting the motor from pushing the plunger. The technique 800 includes an operation 816 to actuate the motor to pull the plunger to remove liquid remaining in the nozzle, wherein the second ball valve allows for minimal reverse liquid movement. To prevent excess liquid from being dispensed, the liquid dispensing system may pull the plunger to bring liquid remaining in the nozzle back into the syringe.

[0066] FIG. 9 illustrates a liquid dispensing system 900 in accordance with some embodiments. The liquid dispensing system 900 utilizes a vacuum pump 910 to draw liquid into a holding chamber 915 with a piston 920. When a new formulation cartridge 925 is connected, the control computer 905 activates the vacuum pump 910 connected to the holding chamber 915 to begin the initialization procedure. The vacuum pump 910 may cause the piston 920 to move downward. The suction created by the piston 920 moving downward will pull liquid from the formulation cartridge 925 through the pipework interface adapter 930 and into the pipework A 935 of the liquid dispensing system 900. The liquid is pulled through pipework A 935 and into inner pipe 940. The inner pipe 940 is connected to the piston 920 and moves up and down with the piston 920 inside the pipework A 935. The inner pipe 940 has an opening at the bottom, near the piston 920, such that the liquid flows into the holding chamber 915 near the position of the piston 920. The delivery of the liquid through the inner pipe 940, essentially flowing from the bottom up, may prevent dead space in the holding chamber 915. This also ensures that old liquid does not remain in the holding chamber. The piston 920 moves downward as the vacuum pump 910 pulls it downward and drawing more liquid into the holding chamber 915 from the formulation cartridge 925. A magnetic sensor 945 is placed at the maximum extension of the piston 920 such that when the piston 920 reaches maximum extension the magnetic sensor 945 sends a signal to the control computer 905 to stop extracting liquid. Other sensing approaches are also envisioned. The magnetic sensor 945 holds the piston 920 in place. The holding chamber 915 may now hold enough liquid for a maximum dispense.

[0067] When a formulation dispense is initiated, the control computer 905 sends a command to the pump 955. The pump 955 pulls liquid through pipework B 950 and pushes it out pipework C 960. The liquid is dispensed through the nozzle 965 into the receiving container 970. The receiving container 970 is placed on a balance 975 with a weight sensor. The weight sensor of the balance 975 communicates with the control computer 905. When the control computer 905 determines the signal from the balance 975 indicates an amount of liquid equivalent to the target dispense amount has been dispensed, the control computer 905 commands the pump 955 to discontinue dispensing. The pump 955 will then perform a reverse pump to draw liquid back into the nozzle 965 and pipework C 960 to prevent excess drips.

[0068] While the dispensing is taking place, the piston 920 is held in place with a magnet and as the piston moves, the movement is sensed bysensor 945. The vacuum created by the pump 955 pulling liquid from the holding chamber 915 causes more liquid to flow into the holding chamber 915 from the formulation cartridge 925. By keeping the piston 920 held at a static position, it ensures the amount of liquid held in the holding chamber 915 is sufficient for a maximum dispense. When the formulation cartridge 925 is emptied of all its content, the vacuum created by the pump 955 pulling liquid from the holding chamber 915, but with no further liquid to fill the holding chamber 915 from the formulation cartridge 925 may cause the piston 920 to rise and break its connection with the magnetic sensor 945 as the pump dispenses product. Upon the piston 920 connection to the magnetic sensor 945 breaking, the magnetic sensor 945 sends a signal to the control computer 905 that this has occurred. The control computer 905 may send an alert, such as to the GUI, indicating that the formulation cartridge 925 is empty and requires a change. The benefit of the liquid dispensing system 900 utilizing the holding chamber 915 is such a way ensures that even when the formulation cartridge 925 is emptied, the liquid dispensing system 900 still has enough liquid held in the holding chamber for a maximum dispense before the formulation cartridge 925 is changed. Additionally, this prevents waste of liquid from the formulation cartridge 925 as the formulation cartridge 925 is fully emptied before an indication is made that it is ready to be changed. At the end of the dispense, the vacuum can be reapplied, in some embodiments, to align the holding chamber or piston with the magnetic sensor.

[0069] In the embodiment of FIG. 9, the formulation cartridge may comprise any container that allows the liquid to be drawn out of it by a vacuum pressure. The container may comprise any container that allow the liquid volume to decrease, without exposing the liquid to ambient air. For example, the container may have fixed walls on all but one side, with one side moveable as the liquid volume decreases.

[0070] In the embodiment of FIG. 9, any type of position sensor may be used in place of the magnetic sensor 945.

[0071] In the embodiment of FIG. 9, the balance may comprise any form of sensor for measuring weight or a force applied under gravity and may comprise a piezo arrangement or an electromechanical arrangement.

[0072] One embodiment, provides a dispensing system comprising one or more detachable and replaceable liquid containers containing liquid to be dispensed, one or more respective chambers, each chamber connected to a respective container to receive liquid from the respective container and having a pressure change applying arrangement to induce a partial vacuum or reduced pressure in the chamber to draw in liquid from a respective container, one or more outlets connected to a respective chamber, wherein the pressure change applying arrangement is adapted to apply a positive pressure in each chamber and/or outlet to cause the liquid in the chamber to be ejected from the respective outlet. A sensor is configured to weigh the liquid ejected from each outlet and a controller is configured to control the application of the positive pressure to control the ejection of the liquid from each outlet.

[0073] Liquids in a plurality of containers may be controlled by the controller to be ejected one at a time. At the end of ejection, the pressure changing arrangement is controlled to apply a short duration vacuum or reduced pressure in the chamber and/or in the outlet to draw in liquid from the outlet. This may prevent unwanted drips and may even draw the liquid back past an outlet barrier, such as a pump or a valve to avoid the liquid being exposed to ambient air.

[0074] One embodiment, provides a dispensing method comprising inducing a partial vacuum or reduced pressure in one or more chambers and/or chamber outlets to draw liquid into the or each chamber from a respective container, apply a positive pressure in each chamber and/or outlet to cause the liquid in the chamber to be ejected from a respective outlet, weigh the liquid ejected from the outlets and controlling the application of the positive pressure to control the ejection of the liquid from the outlets.

[0075] FIG. 10 illustrates a block diagram of an example machine 1000 upon which any one or more of the techniques (e.g., methodologies) discussed herein may perform. In alternative embodiments, the machine 1000 may operate as a standalone device or may be connected (e.g., networked) to other machines. In a networked deployment, the machine 1000 may operate in the capacity of a server machine, a client machine, or both in server-client network environments. In an example, the machine 1000 may act as a peer machine in peer- to-peer (P2P) (or other distributed) network environment. The machine 1000 may be a personal computer (PC), a tablet PC, a set-top box (STB), a personal digital assistant (PDA), a mobile telephone, a web appliance, a network router, switch or bridge, or any machine capable of executing instructions (sequential or otherwise) that specify actions to be taken by that machine. Further, while only a single machine is illustrated, the term "machine" shall also be taken to include any collection of machines that individually or jointly execute a set (or multiple sets) of instructions to perform any one or more of the methodologies discussed herein, such as cloud computing, software as a service (SaaS), other computer cluster configurations.

[0076] Machine (e.g., computer system) 1000 may include a hardware processor 1002 (e.g., a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a hardware processor core, or any combination thereof), a main memory 1004 and a static memory 1006, some or all of which may communicate with each other via an interlink (e.g., bus) 1008. The machine 1000 may further include a display device 1010, an alphanumeric input device 1012 (e.g., a keyboard), and a user interface (UI) navigation device 1014 (e.g., a mouse). In an example, the display device 1010, input device 1012 and UI navigation device 1014 may be a touch screen display. The machine 1000 may additionally include a storage device (e.g., drive unit) 1016, a signal generation device 1018 (e.g., a speaker), a network interface device 1020, and one or more sensors 1021, such as a global positioning system (GPS) sensor, compass, accelerometer, or other sensor. The machine 1000 may include an output controller 1028, such as a serial (e.g., Universal Serial Bus (USB), parallel, or other wired or wireless (e.g., infrared (IR), near field communication (NFC), etc.) connection to communicate or control one or more peripheral devices (e.g., a printer, card reader, etc.).

[0077] The storage device 1016 may include a machine readable medium 1022 on which is stored one or more sets of data structures or instructions 1024 (e.g., software) embodying or utilized by any one or more of the techniques or functions described herein. The instructions 1024 may also reside, completely or at least partially, within the main memory 1004, within static memory 1006, or within the hardware processor 1002 during execution thereof by the machine 1000. In an example, one or any combination of the hardware processor 1002, the main memory 1004, the static memory 1006, or the storage device 1016 may constitute machine readable media. [0078] While the machine readable medium 1022 is illustrated as a single medium, the term "machine readable medium" may include a single medium or multiple media (e.g., a centralized or distributed database, and/or associated caches and servers) configured to store the one or more instructions 1024. The term "machine readable medium" may include any medium that is capable of storing, encoding, or carrying instructions for execution by the machine 1000 and that cause the machine 1000 to perform any one or more of the techniques of the present disclosure, or that is capable of storing, encoding or carrying data structures used by or associated with such instructions. Non-limiting machine readable medium examples may include solid-state memories, and optical and magnetic media.

[0079] The instructions 1024 may further be transmitted or received over a

communications network 1026 using a transmission medium via the network interface device 1020 utilizing any one of a number of transfer protocols (e.g., frame relay, internet protocol (IP), transmission control protocol (TCP), user datagram protocol (UDP), hypertext transfer protocol (HTTP), etc.). Example communication networks may include a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), a packet data network (e.g., the Internet), mobile telephone networks (e.g., cellular networks), Plain Old Telephone (POTS) networks, and wireless data networks (e.g., Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.11 family of standards known as Wi-Fi®, IEEE 802.16 family of standards known as WiMax®), IEEE 802.15.4 family of standards, peer-to-peer (P2P) networks, among others. In an example, the network interface device 1020 may include one or more physical jacks (e.g., Ethernet, coaxial, or phone jacks) or one or more antennas to connect to the communications network 1026. In an example, the network interface device 1020 may include a plurality of antennas to wirelessly communicate using at least one of single-input multiple-output (SIMO), multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO), or multiple-input single-output (MISO) techniques. The term "transmission medium" shall be taken to include any intangible medium that is capable of storing, encoding or carrying instructions for execution by the machine 1000, and includes digital or analog communications signals or other intangible medium to facilitate communication of such software.

[0080] In some embodiments, the system further comprises a printer. In some

embodiments, the printer is configured to print labels for hair color containers. In some embodiments, the printer is configured to print an image of the displayed hair color.

[0081] Method examples described herein may be machine or computer-implemented at least in part. Some examples may include a computer-readable medium or machine-readable medium encoded with instructions operable to configure an electronic device to perform methods as described in the above examples. An implementation of such methods may include code, such as microcode, assembly language code, a higher-level language code, or the like. Such code may include computer readable instructions for performing various methods. The code may form portions of computer program products. Further, in an example, the code may be tangibly stored on one or more volatile, non-transitory, or non-volatile tangible computer-readable media, such as during execution or at other times. Examples of these tangible computer-readable media may include, but are not limited to, hard disks, removable magnetic disks, removable optical disks (e.g., compact disks and digital video disks), magnetic cassettes, memory cards or sticks, random access memories (RAMs), read only memories (ROMs), and the like.

[0082] Also provided are custom hair color formulations prepared using the methods and systems described herein. A formulation may comprise various ingredients.

[0083] Suitable ingredients include, but are not limited to: solvents; oxidizing agents; alkalizing agents; oxidative dye precursors, direct dyes; chelants; radical scavengers; pH modifiers and buffering agents; thickeners and/or rheology modifiers; carbonate ion sources; peroxymonocarbonate ion sources; anionic, cationic, nonionic, amphoteric or zwitterionic surfactants, and mixtures thereof; anionic, cationic, nonionic, amphoteric or zwitterionic polymers, and mixtures thereof; fragrances; enzymes; dispersing agents; peroxide stabilizing agents; antioxidants; natural ingredients (such as proteins, protein compounds, and plant extracts); conditioning agents (such as silicones and cationic polymers); ceramides;

preserving agents; opacifiers and pearling agents (such as titanium dioxide and mica); and mixtures thereof.

[0084] Suitable ingredients referred to above, but not specifically described below, are listed in the International Cosmetics Ingredient Dictionary and Handbook, (8th ed.; The Cosmetics, Toiletry, and Fragrance Association). Particularly, vol. 2, sections 3 (Chemical Classes) and 4 (Functions), which are useful in identifying specific adjuvants to achieve a particular purpose or multipurpose. A few of these ingredients are discussed hereinbelow, whose disclosure is of course non-exhaustive.

[0085] The formulation may comprise a solvent. The solvent may be selected from water, or a mixture of water and at least one organic solvent to dissolve the compounds that would not typically be sufficiently soluble in water.

[0086] Suitable organic solvents include, but are not limited to: Cl to C4 lower alkanols (such as ethanol, propanol, isopropanol); aromatic alcohols (such as benzyl alcohol and phenoxy ethanol); polyols and polyol ethers (such as carbitols, 2-butoxyethanol, propylene glycol, propylene glycol monomethyl ether, diethylene glycol monoethyl ether, monomethyl ether, hexylene glycol, glycerol, ethoxy glycol, butoxydiglycol, ethoxydiglycerol, dipropyleneglocol, polygylcerol); propylene carbonate; and mixtures thereof.

[0087] In one embodiment, the solvent may be selected from the group consisting of water, ethanol, propanol, isopropanol, glycerol, 1, 2-propylene glycol, hexylene glycol, ethoxy diglycol, and mixtures thereof.

[0088] Typically, the formulation may comprise water as a main ingredient, particularly in a total amount ranging from at least about 50%, alternatively from at least about 60%, alternatively from at least about 70%, by weight of the total formulation. Typically, when present, the formulation comprises a total amount of organic solvents ranging from about 1% to about 30%, by weight of the total formulation.

[0089] The formulation may comprise compatible direct dyes, in an amount sufficient to provide additional coloring, particularly with regard to intensity. Typically, the formulation may comprise a total amount of direct dyes ranging from about 0.005% to about 4%, by weight of the total formulation.

[0090] Suitable direct dyes include but are not limited to: Acid dyes such as Acid Yellow 1, Acid Orange 3, Acid Black 1, Acid Black 52, Acid Orange 7, Acid Red 33, Acid Yellow 23, Acid Blue 9, Acid Violet 43, HC Blue 16, Acid Blue 62, Acid Blue 25, Acid Red 4; Basic Dyes such as Basic Brown 17, Basic Red 118, Basic Orange 69, Basic Red 76, Basic Brown 16, Basic Yellow 57, Basic Violet 14, Basic Blue 7, Basic Blue 26, Basic Red 2, Basic Blue 99, Basic Yellow 29, Basic Red 51, Basic Orange 31, Basic Yellow 87, Basic Blue 124, 4-(3- (4-amino-9, 10-dioxo-9, 10-dihydroanthracen- 1 -ylamino)propyl)-4-methylmorpholin-4-ium- methylsulfate, (£)-l-(2-(4-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)diazenyl)phenyl)(ethyl)amino)ethyl)-3- methyl- 1 H-imidazol-3 -ium chloride, (£)-4-(2-(4-(dimethylamino)phenyl)diazenyl)- 1 -methyl- 1 H-imidazol-3 -ium-3 -yl)butane- 1 -sulfonate, (£)-4-(4-(2-methyl-2- phenylhydrazono)methyl)pyridinium- 1 -yl)butane- 1 -sulfonate, N,N-dimethyl-3 -(4- (methylamino)-9, 10-dioxo-4a,9,9a, 10-tetrahydroanthracen- 1 -ylamino)-N-propylpropan- 1 - aminium bromide; Disperse Dyes such as Disperse Red 17, Disperse Violet 1, Disperse Red 15, Disperse Black 9, Disperse Blue 3, Disperse Blue 23, Disperse Blue 377; Nitro Dyes such as l-(2-(4-nitrophenylamino)ethyl)urea, 2-(4-methyl-2-nitrophenylamino)ethanol, 4- nitrobenzene-l, 2-diamine, 2-nitrobenzene- 1, 4-diamine, Picramic acid, HC Red No. 13, 2,2'- (2-nitro-l,4-phenylene)bis(azanediyl)diethanol, HC Yellow No. 5, HC Red No. 7, HC Blue No.2, HC Yellow No. 4, HC Yellow No. 2, HC Orange No. 1, HC Red No. 1, 2-(4-amino-2- chloro-5-nitrophenylamino)ethanol, HC Red No. 3, 4-amino-3-nitrophenol, 4-(2- hydroxy ethylamino)-3 -nitrophenol, 2-amino-3 -nitrophenol, 2-(3 -(methylamino)-4- nitrophenoxy)ethanol, 3-(3-amino-4-nitrophenyl)propane-l,2-diol, HC Yellow No. 11, HC Violet No. 1, HC Orange No. 2, HC Orange No. 3, HC Yellow No. 9, HC Red No. 10, HC Red No. 11, 2-(2-hydroxyethylamino)-4,6-dinitrophenol, HC Blue No. 12, HC Yellow No. 6, HC Yellow No. 12, HC Blue No. 10, HC Yellow No. 7, HC Yellow No. 10, HC Blue No. 9, 2-chloro-6-(ethylamino)-4-nitrophenol, 6-nitropyridine-2, 5 -diamine, HC Violet No. 2, 2- amino-6-chloro-4-nitrophenol, 4-(3-hydroxypropylamino)-3 -nitrophenol, HC Yellow No. 13, 6-nitro-l,2,3,4-tetrahydroquinoxaline, HC Red No. 14, HC Yellow No. 15, HC Yellow No. 14, N2-methyl-6-nitropyridine-2, 5 -diamine, Nl-allyl-2-nitrobenzene-l, 4-diamine, HC Red No. 8, HC Green No.1, HC Blue No. 14; Natural dyes such as Annato, Anthocyanin,

Beetroot, Carotene, Capsanthin, Lycopene, Chlorophyll, Henna, Indigo, Cochineal; and mixtures thereof.

[0091] The formulation may comprise chelants (also known as“chelating agent”, “sequestering agent”, or“sequestrant”) in an amount sufficient to reduce the amount of metals available to interact with formulation components, particularly oxidizing agents, more particularly peroxides. Chelants are well known in the art and a non-exhaustive list thereof can be found in AE Martell & RM Smith, Critical Stability Constants, Vol. 1, Plenum Press, New York & London (1974) and AE Martell & RD Hancock, Metal Complexes in Aqueous Solution, Plenum Press, New York & London (1996), both incorporated herein by reference.

[0092] Typically, the formulation may comprise a total amount of chelants ranging from at least about 0.01%, alternatively from about 0.01% to about 5%, alternatively from about 0.25% to about 3%, alternatively from about 0.5% to about 1%, by weight of the total formulation.

[0093] Suitable chelants include, but are not limited to: carboxylic acids (such as aminocarboxylic acids), phosphonic acids (such as aminophosphonic acids), polyphosphoric acids (such as linear polyphosphoric acids), their salts thereof, and mixtures thereof. By“salts thereof’, it is meant - in the context of chelants - all salts comprising the same functional structure as the chelant they are referring to and including alkali metal salts, alkaline earth salts, ammonium salts, substituted ammonium salts, and mixtures thereof; alternatively sodium salts, potassium salts, ammonium salts, and mixtures thereof; alternatively monoethanolammonium salts, diethanolammonium salts, triethanolammonium salts, and mixtures thereof.

[0094] Suitable aminocarboxylic acid chelants comprise at least one carboxylic acid moiety (-COOH) and at least one nitrogen atom. Suitable aminocarboxylic acid chelants include, but are not limited to: diethylenetriamine pentaacetic acid (DTP A), ethylenediamine disuccinic acid (EDDS), ethylenediamine diglutaric acid (EDGA), 2- hydroxypropylenediamine disuccinic acid (HPDS), glycinamide-N,N'-disuccinic acid (GADS), ethylenediamine-N-N'-diglutaric acid (EDDG), 2-hydroxypropylenediamine-N-N'- disuccinic acid (HPDDS), ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), ethylenedicysteic acid (EDC), ethylenediamine-N-N'-bis(ortho-hydroxyphenyl acetic acid) (EDDHA),

diaminoalkyldi(sulfosuccinic acids) (DDS), N,N'-bis(2-hydroxybenzyl)ethylenediamine- N,N'-diacetic acid (HBED), their salts thereof, and mixtures thereof. Other suitable aminocarboxylic type chelants include, but are not limited to: iminodiacetic acid derivatives such as N-2-hydroxyethyl N,N diacetic acid or glyceryl imino diacetic acid, iminodiacetic acid-N-2-hydroxypropyl sulfonic acid and aspartic acid N-carboxymethyl N-2- hydroxypropyl-3 -sulfonic acid, P-alanine-N,N'-diacetic acid, aspartic acid-N,N'-diacetic acid, aspartic acid-N-monoacetic acid and iminodisuccinic acid chelants, ethanoldiglycine acid, their salts thereof, their derivatives thereof, and mixtures thereof. Further suitable

aminocarboxylic type chelants include, but are not limited to: dipicolinic acid, 2- phosphonobutane-l,2,4-tricarboxylic acid, their salts thereof, their derivatives thereof, and mixtures thereof.

[0095] Suitable aminophosphonic acid chelants comprise an aminophosphonic acid moiety (- PO3H2) or its derivative - PO3R2, wherein R2 is a Ci to C₆ alkyl or aryl radical and salts thereof. Suitable aminophosphonic acid chelants include, but are not limited to:

aminotri-(l-ethylphosphonic acid), ethylene-diaminetetra-(l-ethylphosphonic acid), aminotri- (l-propylphosphonic acid), aminotri-(isopropylphosphonic acid), their salts thereof, and mixtures thereof; alternatively aminotri-(methylenephosphonic acid), ethylene-diamine-tetra- (methylenephosphonic acid) (EDTMP) and diethylene-triamine-penta-(methylenephosphonic acid) (DTPMP), their salts thereof, their derivatives thereof, and mixtures thereof.

[0096] Suitable alternative chelants include, but are not limited to: polyethyleneimines, polyphosphoric acid chelants, etidronic acid, methylglycine diacetic acid, N-(2- hydroxyethyl)iminodiacetic acid, minodisuccinnic acid, N,N-Dicarboxymethyl-L-glutamic acid, N-lauroyl-N,N',N"-ethylenediamine diacetic acid, their salts thereof, their derivatives thereof, and mixtures thereof.

[0097] In a specific embodiment, the formulation comprises a chelant selected from the group consisting of diethylenetriamine-N,N’,N”-polyacids, diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTP A), diethylenetriaminepenta(methylene phosphonic acid) (DTPMP), diamine-N,N'- dipolyacid, monoamine monoamide-N,N'-dipolyacid, ethylenediaminedisuccinic acid (EDDS), their salts thereof, their derivatives thereof, and mixtures thereof; alternatively ethylenediaminedisuccinic acid (EDDS).

[0098] The formulation may comprise a radical scavenger. As used herein the term “radical scavenger” refers to a species that can react with a radical, such as a carbonate radical to convert the radical species by a series of fast reactions to a less reactive species. In one embodiment, the radical scavenger is different from the alkalizing agent and/or is present in an amount sufficient to reduce the damage to the hair during the coloring /bleaching process. Typically, the formulation may comprise a total amount of radical scavengers ranging from about 0.1% to about 10%, alternatively from about 1% by weight to about 7%, by weight of the total formulation. Suitable radical scavengers include, but are not limited to: alkanolamines, amino sugars, amino acids, esters of amino acids, and mixtures thereof;

alternatively 3 -amino- 1 -propanol, 4-amino- 1 -butanol, 5-amino-l-pentanol, l-amino-2- propanol, l-amino-2-butanol, l-amino-2-pentanol, 1 -amino-3 -pentanol, l-amino-4-pentanol, 3 -amino-2-methylpropan- 1 -ol, 1 -amino-2-methylpropan-2-ol, 3 -aminopropane- 1 ,2-diol, glucosamine, N-acetylglucosamine, glycine, arginine, lysine, proline, glutamine, histidine, sarcosine, serine, glutamic acid, tryptophan, their salts thereof, and mixtures thereof;

alternatively glycine, sarcosine, lysine, serine, 2 methoxyethylamine, glucosamine, glutamic acid, morpholine, piperdine, ethylamine, 3 amino- 1 -propanol, and mixtures thereof. As used herein, the term“salts thereof’ - in the context of radical scavengers - means particularly potassium salts, sodium salts, ammonium salts, and mixtures thereof.

[0099] The formulation may comprise a thickener in an amount sufficient to provide the formulation with a viscosity so that it can be readily applied to the hair without unduly dripping off the hair and causing mess. Typically, the formulation may comprise a total amount of thickeners ranging from at least about 0.1%, alternatively at least about 0.5%, alternatively at least about 1%, by weight of the total formulation. Suitable thickeners include, but are not limited to: associative polymers, polysaccharides, non-associative polycarboxylic polymers, and mixtures thereof. Further details of suitable thickeners may be found in WO 2013/126657, in particular at pages 14-18.

[00100] The formulation may comprise a conditioning agent, and/or be used in

combination with a formulation comprising a conditioning agent.

[00101] Typically, the formulation may comprise a total amount of conditioning agents ranging from about 0.05% to about 20%, alternatively from about 0.1% to about 15%, alternatively from about 0.2% to about 10%, alternatively from about 0.2% to about 2%, alternatively from about 0.5% to 2%, by weight of the total formulation. The conditioning agent may be included in a separate pre- and/or post-treatment formulation.

[00102] Suitable conditioning agents include, but are not limited to: silicones,

aminosilicones, fatty alcohols, polymeric resins, polyol carboxylic acid esters, cationic polymers, cationic surfactants, insoluble oils and oil derived materials and mixtures thereof. Additional conditioning agents include mineral oils and other oils such as glycerin and sorbitol. Further details of suitable conditioning agents may be found in WO 2013/126657, in particular at pages 20-26.

[00103] The formulation may comprise a surfactant. Suitable surfactants generally have a lipophilic chain length of from about 8 to about 30 carbon atoms and can be selected from anionic surfactants, nonionic surfactants, amphoteric surfactants, cationic surfactants, and mixtures thereof.

[00104] Typically, the formulation may comprise a total amount of surfactants ranging from about 1% to about 60%, alternatively from about 2% to about 30%, alternatively from about 8% to about 25%, alternatively from about 10% to about 20%, by weight of the total formulation.

[00105] The formulations may comprise a mixture of an anionic surfactant and an amphoteric surfactant with one or more nonionic surfactants. The formulation may comprise a total amount of anionic surfactant ranging from about 0.1% to about 20%, alternatively from about 0.1% to about 15%, alternatively from about 5% to about 15%, by weight of the total formulation; and a total amount of amphoteric and/or nonionic components, which may range independently from each other from about 0.1% to about 15%, alternatively from about 0.5% to about 10%, alternatively from about 1% to about 8%, by weight of the total formulation. Further details of suitable surfactants may be found in WO 2013/126657, in particular at pages 26-31.

[00106] The following numbered examples are embodiments.

[00107] 1. A method for creating a hair color formulation, comprising:

selecting a hair color with a user interface;

calculating a target amount for each base color formulation based on the plurality of base color intensities; and dispensing the calculated target amount of each base color formulation and additional formulations to form a composite hair color hair formulation, wherein the composite hair color formulation corresponds to the selected hair color.

[00108] 2. The method of example 1, wherein the calculated target amount of each base color formulation and additional formulation is for a single use of the composite hair color formulation.

[00109] 3. The method of example 1, wherein the calculated target amount of each base color formulation and additional formulation is for multiple uses of the composite hair color formulation.

[00110] 4. The method of any one of examples 1 to 3, further comprising receiving, from a user interface, identification data for the recipient of the composite hair color formulation.

[00111] 5 The method of example 4, further comprising storing, in a database, the recipient identification data and calculated base color formulation and additional formulation target amounts for the composite hair color formulation.

[00112] 6. The method of any one of examples 1 to 5, wherein a perfume is included in the dispensing of the composite hair color formulation.

[00113] 7 The method of any one of examples 1 to 6, wherein a hair conditioner or one or more other optional additives is included in the dispensing of the composite hair color formulation.

[00114] 8. The method of example 5, further comprising:

generating a unique identifier associated with the calculated base color formulation and additional formulation target amounts and the corresponding recipient identification data; printing, at a label printer, a label including the unique identifier.

[00115] 9. The method of example 5 or example 8, further comprising:

receiving, from the user interface, input to alter the intensity of a base color;

calculating the target amounts for the base color formulations and additional formulations corresponding to the altered intensity of the base color in proportion to the composite hair color formulation.

dispensing the calculated target of the base color formulations and additional formulations.

[00116] 10. The method of example 9, further comprising:

storing, in the database, the calculated base color formulations and additional formulation target amounts for the composite hair color formulation with the altered base color formulation and additional formulation target amounts as a second composite hair color formulation associated with the recipient.

[00117] 11. The method of any one of examples 1 to 10, wherein the user interface displays a calculated preview image of the composite color.

[00118] 12. A hair color dispensing system, comprising:

a plurality of nozzles; and

a plurality of base color formulation cartridges;

a processor; and

at least one memory including instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to perform operations to:

transmit to the dispenser the calculated measurement amount for each base color formulation and additional formulation corresponding to a base color formulation and additional formulation cartridge.

[00119] 13. The system of example 12, wherein the user interface screen may be on a smartphone.

[00120] 14. The system of example 12, wherein the user interface screen may be on a tablet computing device.

[00121] 15. The system of any one of examples 12 to 14, wherein the input from the user interface screen is received from a wireless communication session.

[00122] 16. The system of example 15, wherein the wireless communication session is one of:

a Wi-Fi Direct communication session, a BLUETOOTH communication session, and a Near Field Communications communication session.

[00123] 17. The system of any one of examples 12 to 16, further comprising a printer.

[00124] 18. The system of example 17, wherein the printer is configured to print labels for hair color containers. [00125] 19. The system of example 17 or example 18, wherein the printer is configured to print an image of the displayed hair color.

[00126] 20. A hair color dispensing system comprising:

[00127] 21. A liquid dispensing system comprising:

a container containing a liquid;

a first valve, connected by piping to the container, wherein the valve only allows liquid to pass from the container;

a second valve, connected by piping to the syringe, wherein the second valve allows for liquid to pass from the syringe and pass back into the syringe, with the flow rate for the pass back amount being less than the flow rate for the pass from amount;

a nozzle, connected by piping to the second valve, for dispensing the liquid;

control the movement of the drive arrangement for piston actuation; and receive weight information from the sensor. [00128] 22. A method for dispensing a liquid, comprising:

actuating a motor to pull a plunger of a syringe, wherein the motor is controlled by a computer, such as a vending machine controller, and the vacuum created in the syringe causes a liquid to be drawn into the syringe from a reservoir through a first ball valve;

stopping the motor when the plunger reaches a predetermined extension;

receiving, at the computer, such as the vending machine controller, a signal to dispense a measured amount of liquid;

actuating the motor to push the plunger of the syringe, wherein the motor is controlled by a computer, such as a vending machine controller, and the pushing of the plunger causes the liquid to exit the syringe whereupon the liquid moves past a second ball valve and out a nozzle as the first ball valve prevent liquid from moving back to the vacuum sealed reservoir; detecting a change in weight at a load cell, wherein the load cell is positioned below the nozzle and configured to hold a liquid receptacle;

transmitting a signal, from the load cell to the computer, such as the vending machine controller, wherein the signal contains weight data;

stopping the motor, based on a control from the computer, such as the vending machine controller, upon when the computer determines the weight data received from the load cell indicates the measured amount of liquid has been dispensed; and

[00129] 23. A formulation dispensing system comprising:

a bladder containing a formulation;

a nozzle, in communication with the adjustable volume by piping via a pump, such as a peristaltic pump or other positive displacement pump, wherein the pump is associated to a motor which may move both forwards and backwards:

a load cell, located beneath the nozzle, configured to measure weight applied to the load cell; and

a computer, such as a vending machine controller, in electronic communication with the motor associated with said pump and the load cell, wherein the computer is configured to: control the movement of the motor for dispensing formulation via the nozzle; and

receive weight information from the load cell.

[00130] Other uses of the disclosed methods will become apparent to those in the art based upon, inter alia , a review of this patent document.

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. A method for creating a hair color formulation, comprising:

selecting a hair color with a user interface;

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the calculated target amount of each base color formulation and additional formulation is for a single use of the composite hair color formulation.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein the calculated target amount of each base color formulation and additional formulation is for multiple uses of the composite hair color formulation.

4. The method of claim 1, further comprising receiving, from a user interface, identification data for the recipient of the composite hair color formulation.

5. The method of claim 4, further comprising storing, in a database, the recipient identification data and calculated base color formulation and additional formulation target amounts for the composite hair color formulation.

6. The method of claim 1, wherein a perfume is included in the dispensing of the composite hair color formulation.

7. The method of claim 1, wherein a hair conditioner is included in the dispensing of the composite hair color formulation.

8. The method of claim 5, further comprising:

generating a unique identifier associated with the calculated base color formulation and additional formulation target amounts and the corresponding recipient identification data; printing, at a label printer, a label including the unique identifier and optionally a listing of ingredients in correspondence with the local interpretation of the International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients.

9. The method of claim 5, further comprising:

10. The method of claim 9, further comprising:

11. The method of claim 1, wherein the user interface displays a calculated preview image of the composite color.

12. A hair color dispensing system, comprising:

a plurality of nozzles; and

a plurality of base color formulation cartridges;

a processor; and

at least one memory including instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to perform operations to: receive, from the user interface screen, the input of ingredient levels for the displayed calculated hair color;

13. The system of claim 12, wherein the user interface screen may be on a smartphone.

14. The system of claim 12, wherein the user interface screen may be on a tablet computing device.

15. The system of claim 12, wherein the input from the user interface screen is received from a wireless communication session.

16. The system of claim 15, wherein the wireless communication session is one of:

17. The system of claim 12, further comprising a printer.

18. The system of claim 17, wherein the printer is configured to print labels for hair color containers.

19. The system of claim 17, wherein the printer is configured to print an image of the displayed hair color.

20. A hair color dispensing system comprising:

receive, from the user interface screen, the input of ingredient levels for the displayed calculated color; calculate a target amount for each base color formulation and additional formulation from the input of ingredient levels; and

21. A liquid dispensing system comprising:

a container containing a liquid;

a nozzle, connected by piping to the second valve, for dispensing the liquid;

22. A method for dispensing a liquid, comprising:

receiving, at the computer, a signal to dispense a measured amount of liquid; actuating the motor to push the plunger of the syringe, wherein the pushing of the plunger causes the liquid to exit the syringe whereupon the liquid moves past a second ball valve and out a nozzle as the first ball valve prevent liquid from moving back to the vacuum sealed reservoir;

23. A formulation dispensing system comprising:

a bladder containing a formulation;

a nozzle, in communication with the adjustable volume by piping via a pump, wherein the pump is associated to a motor which may move both forwards and backwards:

control the movement of the motor for dispensing formulation via the nozzle; and

receive weight information from the load cell.