WO2020109795A1

WO2020109795A1 - Illuminating mirror and compact moveable vanity case containing the same

Info

Publication number: WO2020109795A1
Application number: PCT/GB2019/053358
Authority: WO
Inventors: Tara LALVANI
Original assignee: Beautifect Limited
Priority date: 2018-11-28
Filing date: 2019-11-27
Publication date: 2020-06-04
Also published as: GB201819394D0

Abstract

The present invention relates to an illuminating mirror (101) comprising: a reflective mirror surface; at least one light source (102a, 102b) behind or adjacent the reflective mirror surface; at least one power source for the at least one light source or means of connecting to a power source; a means (104b) of controlling the colour temperature of the light emitted by the at least one light source, and; a means (104a) of controlling the brightness of the light emitted by the at least one light source. In certain embodiments, the power source is a rechargeable battery enabling the illuminating mirror to be moveable. The illuminating mirror may be disposed within a vanity case (200), which may be adapted to conveniently store and organise make up items.

Description

Illuminating mirror and compact moveable vanity case containing the same

Technical Field

The present invention relates to illuminated mirrors.

Background

GENERAL PRODUCT DESCRIPTION

This product will fundamentally change your beauty regime experience by creating a beauty on demand solution revolutionising how women do their makeup around the world.

This category has seen no innovation in decades and women are still doing their makeup the same way their ancestors did many, many, MANY years ago!

This product solves so many ongoing issues which women have learnt to just accept over the years when it comes to doing their makeup. To name just a few;

1- LIGHTING

2- SPACE

3- TIME

4- STORAGE

5- ORGANISATION

6- TRAVELLING, OUT & ABOUT

Well not anymore, this product solves each and every one of these issues & all with extreme style & elegance. An empowering beauty experience which every woman deserves.

1- LIGHTING

With day light reflecting LED lamps, USB chargeable with easy adjustable angling, doing your makeup in the correct lighting has never been so simple! The bright lamp really does light up your face (unlike the majority of mirrors with lights out there) AND the fact the lights reflect DAYLIGHT means you finally get to see how you actually look to everyone else... like it or not! The light will only need to be charged on average once a week.

The special hinge system enables the mirror to be angled & held into a comfortable position to suit your needs.

Even without the daylight lamp on, you can sit anywhere with this product so can choose a nice bright spot with natural light to do your makeup.

2- SPACE

Majority of people have limited space in their homes so fitting a big bulky dressing table is not always an option. This compact, portable stylish design means you don't have to go to or find a space to do your makeup. It allows everything to come to you conveniently & without any hassle, on demand as and when you need it.

3 - TIME

Time is the most important commodity these days. Women have hectic busy lifestyles and everyone complains if they just had more time in the day. Well now they have with this product. The Beautifect Box saves you time by;

• It's portability, allowing you to do your makeup on your own schedule so

whether you are running late for work, busy with the kids or just fancy taking it easy with a lie in there is no more standing up in a poorly lit bathroom, or sitting on the floor using a propped up mirror by the window desperately trying to catch a glimpse of daylight or for that matter sitting alone confined to your dressing table not able to do anything else. Women are masters at multitasking but have never been able to multitask efficiently without compromise when it comes to doing their makeup until now with this new innovative product.

• The smart storage, which we will go into more detail about later, will save time as it has been designed and optimised for storing & organising makeup for ease of use. Everything is positioned in just the right place & within easy quick reach. Also there is no time wasted trying to find the right pencil or brush etc to use each time as everything has its correct place so it is very straightforward to find.

• You will not need to unpack and then pack away all your makeup each time into a messy disorganised makeup bag saving you even more time.

4 & 5- STORAGE & ORGANISI NG

The storage in this compact design has been extremely well thought out to achieve the most superior layout for the capacity of the unit. It comprises of a specially designed base tray connected to two flaps which fold out from above.

BASE TRAY

Through multiple iterations, the base tray has been optimised & divided into specific sections for various makeup items. The tray provides an innovative design to easily organise the vast array of different makeup items including pencils, brushes, makeup bottles, compacts & palettes.

FLAPS

The foldout flaps serve multiple uses including;

1- Organising & storing small brushes, pencils and palettes.

2- Protecting the mirror from becoming dirty from makeup transferring onto the surface.

3- Protecting the makeup from banging into the mirror and potentially breaking.

4- Reducing the likelihood of items moving from one section to another when the case is carried.

5- Reduces the makeup making a rattling sound within the unit. TRAVELLING, OUT & ABOUT

The compact stylish design makes it perfect for use not just anywhere around the home but also when out & about or when traveling.

No more worrying about the lack of a dressing table and correct lighting in hotels. With a day light adjustable brightness lamp, which is USB chargeable, incorporated into a beautifully designed & crafted, compartmented case with smart storage, you can do your makeup flawlessly in the comfort of your own bed, sitting back on the sofa, eating at your dining table or commuting in a car, train, boat or even a plane for that matter.

Saves time when packing and unpacking for holidays and takes away the chance of leaving makeup behind when rushing for a flight after doing your makeup.

When going out straight from work you have everything with you that you need to look perfect for the evening.

If your posting pictures throughout the day you can always look your best and refresh your makeup whenever you want on the go and without any hassle.

I n summary

Do your makeup wherever, whenever and in DAYLIGHT.

This product will completely re-invent how women do their makeup every day. Perfect for the modern day woman. It is the future of beauty. Summary of the Invention

According to an aspect of the present invention there is provided an illuminating mirror comprising: a reflective mirror surface;

at least one light source behind or adjacent the reflective mirror surface;

at least one power source for the at least one light source or means of connecting to a power source;

a means of controlling the colour temperature of the light emitted by the at least one light source, and;

a means of controlling the brightness of the light emitted by the at least one light source.

Advantageously, by providing an illuminating mirror with the means to control both the colour temperature and the intensity of the light emitted from the associated light source, this allows an individual using the mirror to see a reflected image of themselves in light conditions which mimic those most appropriate for their requirements (in many cases this will be light conditions which mimic natural daylight). Where the light source is positioned behind the reflective mirror surface, said surface may be provided with apertures or light- transmissive windows aligned with the LED sources.

Preferably, said light source is configured to illuminate a user looking at the reflective mirror surface.

Advantageously, positioning the light source behind or adjacent the reflective mirror surface allows the light to be directed substantially perpendicular to the reflective mirror surface towards the face of a person looking at the mirror.

Preferably, the at least one light source is an LED.

Preferably, the mirror comprises a plurality of LED light sources.

Preferably at least one LED light source is configured to emit light having a colour temperature between 2000 K and 7000 K. Advantageously the means of controlling the colour temperature (the colour parameter controller) of the light emitted by the at least one light source is associated with the at least one LED light source that is configured to emit light having a colour temperature between 2000 K and 7000 K such that a user can control the colour temperature output of the light.

Preferably, at least one LED light source is configured to emit light having a brightness between 2000 Lumens and 7000 Lumens.

Advantageously the means of controlling the intensity or brightness (the brightness controller) of the light emitted by the at least one light source is associated with the at least one LED light source that is configured to emit light having a brightness between 2000 K and 7000 K such that a user can control the brightness output of the light.

Most preferably, the LED light source is an array of LEDs.

Advantageously, using an array of LEDs (or an 'LED array') as a light source easily allows each light source to vary both the colour temperature and brightness without each individual LED necessarily needing to vary in both colour temperature and brightness i.e. each LED array may have a set of LEDs which can be varied in colour temperature and a set of LEDs which can be varied in brightness.

Preferably the array of LED lights comprises blue LED lights and yellow LED lights.

Preferably, the LED light source comprises one or more chip-on-board LEDs.

Preferably, the at least one LED light source comprises a plurality of LEDs, a first set of which are variable with respect to the colour temperature of the light which they emit and a second set of which are variable with respect to the brightness of the light which they emit.

Preferably LEDs from the first set of LEDs and LEDs from the second set of LEDs are arranged in a staggered formation.

Optionally, the mirror comprises a second reflective mirrored section.

Preferably, the second reflective mirrored section is detachable from the first reflective mirror surface. Preferably, the second reflective mirrored section is magnetically attached to the first reflective mirror surface.

Preferably the second reflective mirrored section is a magnification mirror.

Preferably the power source is a rechargeable battery. Advantageously, by comprising a rechargeable battery the mirror can be conveniently transported and used in locations without the need to connect to an external power supply.

Preferably, a plurality of LEDs are arranged at, or near to, at least a portion of the outer circumference of the first reflective mirror surface.

By providing illumination from, or in the vicinity of, the circumference of the reflective mirror surface this helps to illuminate a user without directing an uncomfortable amount of light into a user's eyes.

Optionally, at least some of the plurality of LEDs are arranged at, or near to, the left and right edges of the first reflective mirror surface.

Optionally, at least some of the plurality of LEDs are arranged at, or near to, the top and bottom sides of the first reflective mirror surface.

Optionally, the plurality of LEDs are provided as one or more arrays of circumferentially spaced-apart LEDs.

According to another aspect of the invention there is provided a vanity case with the mirror of the first aspect disposed therewithin. Preferably, the case comprises at least two sections, a lid section and a base section.

Most preferably the mirror of the first aspect is disposed on the inner surface of the lid section.

Advantageously, by positioning the mirror on the inner surface of the lid section this allows a person to securely store make up and tools in the case, and then open the case to both access make up and tools held within the base section and use the mirror for application. Thus, a user can both conveniently transport cosmetics and tools and apply them in appropriate light conditions in any location.

Preferably, the two sections are connected by a hinge.

Most preferably, the hinge is a friction hinge.

Using a friction hinge, such as those commonly found on laptops, to connect the two sections ensures that the lid can be opened and then held in a fixed orientation. Most preferably the friction hinge allows the lid to be opened and held at angles between 90 degrees and 140 degrees with respect to the base. An optimal angle is approximately 120 degrees. This is particularly useful as it allows for a user to place the base section on a flat surface such as a table or desk and tilt the lid such that the mirror present on the inner surface directly faces the user. As the lid can move back to angles way beyond 90 degrees this even allows a user to sit on a bed for example, where the body angle of a user would be different to that when they are sitting in front of a table, and position the mirror (and associated illumination) comfortably.

Optionally, the two sections of the case are securely held in a closed formation by means of at least one clasp.

Optionally, at least one section of the case, typically the base section, is further sub-divided into at least two internal sections.

Preferably the outer lower surface of the base section has one or more non-slip sections.

Various further features and aspects of the invention are defined in the claims.

Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the meaning commonly understood by a person skilled in the art to which this invention belongs. Brief Description of the Drawings

Embodiments of the present invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings where like parts are provided with corresponding reference numerals and in which:

Figure 1 shows a simplified schematic diagram of a mirror according to certain embodiments of the present invention.

Figure 2 shows simplified schematic diagrams showing different views of a vanity case containing a mirror according to certain preferred embodiments of the present invention. Figure 2A shows a front view of a vanity case, containing a mirror, in a closed configuration. Figure 2B shows a back view of a vanity case containing a mirror in a closed configuration, according to certain aspects of the invention. Figure 2C shows a vanity case containing a mirror in an open configuration, according to certain aspects of the invention.

Figure 3 shows a single LED light source 302 according to certain embodiments of the present invention.

Figure 4 provides a simplified schematic diagram showing a friction hinge according to certain embodiments of the present invention.

Figure 5 provides a simplified schematic diagram showing a vanity case containing a mirror according to certain embodiments of the present invention. Figure 6 provides simplified schematic diagrams showing different views of a vanity case containing a mirror according to certain aspects of the present invention. Figure 6A shows a vanity case comprising a mirror in a closed configuration according to certain aspects of the present invention. Figure 6B shows a vanity case comprising a mirror in an open configuration according to certain aspects of the present invention. Figure 6C shows a vanity case comprising a mirror in an open configuration, with the flaps unfolded to show the storage compartments according to certain aspects of the present invention.

to Detailed Description

Figure 1 shows a simplified schematic diagram of a mirror according to certain

embodiments of the present invention. A mirror 101 is shown with two light emitting diode (LED) light sources 102a, 102b. A first LED light source 102a is located towards the perimeter of the mirror on the left side of the mirror and a second LED light source 102b is located towards the perimeter of the mirror on the right side of the mirror. The LED light sources 102a, 102b are surface mounted to the mirror.

The LED light sources 102a, 102b comprise low power LED arrays. The low power LED arrays run on a single source maximum 4.2 volt system. The low power LED arrays are assemblies containing multiple LEDs, for example chip-on-board (COB) LEDs. The low power LED arrays are configured to prolong the battery life and the hours of usage available per charge. In some embodiments, the LED light sources may comprise a single LED. The LED light sources 102a, 102b can be adjusted to emit light with variable colour temperature and brightness values.

The outer reflective mirror surface of mirror 101 reflects light in the visible spectrum and is made from acrylic. The mirror may measure approximately 270mm x 200 mm and may be 3mm or 4mm thick. The mirror 101 has a scratch resistant coating on the outer reflective mirror surface. The LED light sources 102a, 102b are surface mounted onto the rear surface of mirror 101 i.e. they are located behind the reflective surface of the mirror 101. The reflective surface of the mirror 101 directly in front of the LED light sources 102a, 102b is laser etched to provide light transmissive windows which allow the light emitted from the LED light sources 102a, 102b to more easily pass through the mirror and illuminate the user. In some embodiments, the light transmissive window is provided with a light diffusing portion, which may be in the form of a coating on an outer surface or inner surface thereof. Alternatively, the light diffusing portion may be in the form of a diffusing sheet fixed to an outer or inner surface of the light transmissive window. A rechargeable battery is provided as a means of powering the LED light sources 102a, 102b. The rechargeable battery is a 6000 mAh lithium-ion polymer battery and provides around 10 hours of use from a single charge. When the mirror is integrated into a vanity case or frame, the battery is typically located in a housing behind the mirror 101.

A power button 103 is provided on the mirror 101. The power control 103 or ON/OFF switch is a touch activated spot, which for example uses a capacitance switch to detect user touch, on the reflective surface of the mirror 101, and switches the LED light sources 102a, 102b on and off. The light source will also be turned off when the lid is closed. A skilled person would be aware of the manner in which such an automatic shut-off could be incorporated e.g. via a physical switch or by incorporating a sensor.

Further disposed on the reflective surface of the mirror 101, are a first and second parameter control 104a, 104b. The first and second parameter control 104a, 104b are also touch activated spots on the reflective surface of the mirror. The first parameter control 104a adjusts the brightness of the light emitted by the LED light sources 102a, 102b. The second parameter control 104b adjusts the colour temperature of the light emitted by the LED light sources 102a, 102b. Colour temperature is a way to describe the light appearance provided by a light source such as an LED and is conventionally expressed in Kelvins (K) or degrees of Kelvin (K) on a scale from 1000 to 10,000. At the lower end of the Kelvin scale, typically from 2000K to 3000K, the light produced is often referred to as "warm white" and tends to a more orange/yellow light. Colour temperatures between 3100K and 4500K are typically referred to as "cool white" or neutral. Colour temperatures above 4500K are typically considered to be indicative of "daylight".

It will be understood that the colour temperature and brightness settings of the LED light sources 102a, 102b can be set up to allow for either discrete variation of the settings e.g. to give pre-set combinations or continuous variation of settings, or a combination of both pre set combinations and continuous variation of settings. For example, there may be five pre set colour settings designed to mimic light at sunrise/sunset (around 3300 K), daytime light (around 5100 K), evening light (around 2700 K), morning/afternoon light (around 4500 K), and bright light (around 6500 K) and a continuous variation of light intensity between 2000 and 7000 Lumens at each pre-set colour temperature setting. There may also be settings configured to mimic other lighting conditions such as candlelight conditions. There may also be pre-set brightness settings such as low (2,500 Lumens), medium (3750 Lumens) and high (5000 Lumens). I n this case the Lux output at 0.3m in front of the first mirror surface aims to be 110-130 Lux for low, 300-350 Lux for medium and 420-500 Lux for high. The blue and yellow base colours are offset to provide a concise, clean colour and intensity.

I n this embodiment there is also a software control module which receives input signals from the first and second parameter controls and generates one or more control signals to vary the colour temperature or brightness of the LEDs. The software control module can include the preferred settings for pre-sets.

I n some embodiments, there may be a sensor present for detecting the lighting conditions. The colour temperature and intensity outputs may then be automatically altered according to the ambient lighting conditions to provide an optimal lighting output, this may be operated by a software control module.

I n this embodiment, when the power control is turned on the LEDs will default to their most recently used setting which will have been retained in the memory of the control module.

I n this embodiment, a second mirror 112 is provided on the mirror 101. The second mirror 112 is detachable from the mirror 101 and is detachably fixed to the reflective surface of mirror 101 by means of a magnet.

Figure 2 shows simplified schematic diagrams showing different views of a mirror according to certain preferred embodiments of the present invention. Figure 2A shows a front view of a vanity case 200, containing a mirror 201, in a closed configuration. The vanity case 200 has a first section 210a and a second section 210b. Both the first and second section 210a, 210b are manufactured from thermoplastics such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), Styrene, Polypropylene, Polycarbonate or alloys of various compounds.

The first and second sections 210a, 210b of the vanity case 200 are held together by two clasps 211a, 211b. The clasps 211a, 211b are metal clasps consisting of a latch part and a hasp part. When closed, the clasps 211a, 211b hold the two sections 210a, 210b securely together for storage and transportation of the vanity case 200. A handle 213 is also provided for convenient transportation of the vanity case 200. The handle 213 is fixed to the first section 210a of the vanity case 200 by means of bolts.

Six non-slip feet are fixed to the external surface of the first section 210a of the vanity case 200. A first and second non-slip foot 208a, 208b are fixed to the front of the vanity case 200. A second and third non-slip foot (shown in Figure 2B) are fixed at the back of the vanity case 200. A fifth and sixth non-slip foot 208e, 208f are fixed to the side of the vanity case. A further two non-slip feet, the seventh and eighth non-slip feet 208g, 208h, are fixed to the external side of the second section 210b of the vanity case 200. The non-slip feet 208a, 208b, 208c, 208d, 208e, 208f, 208g, 208h are manufactured from silicone and increase the friction between the vanity case 200 and the surface on which the vanity case 200 is placed. The non-slip feet 208a, 208b, 208c, 208d, 208e, 208f, 208g, 208h also prevent the case surface from scratching the surface on which it is placed and protect the case surface from damage.

Figure 2B shows a back view of a vanity case 200 containing a mirror in a closed

configuration, according to certain aspects of the invention. The first and second sections 210a, 210b of the vanity case 200 are connected by two hinges 205a, 205b. The hinges 205a, 205b are friction hinges, such as butterfly torque hinges, and allow the vanity case 200 to remain in an open configuration at any angle up to 140 degrees.

A plastic injection-moulded charging port 206 is located on the second section 210b of the vanity case 200. The charging port 206 is fixed to the vanity case 200 by means of an adhesive. The charging port 206 contains a USB connection point 216 for connecting a USB cable to a power source. The USB connection point 216 may be a USB type-C connection point. The USB connection point 216 is provided by a USB printed circuit board (PCB) which is fixed to the back of the charging port 206. The charging port 206 also contains a charge indicator light 207. The charge indicator light 207 is provided by a light pipe which is also connected to the USB PCB. When the vanity case 200 is charging, the charge indicator light 207 emits an intermittent light. When the vanity case 200 is fully charged, the charge indicator light 207 emits a constant light. A second and third non-slip foot 208c, 208d are fixed at the back of the vanity case 200. A first and second non-slip foot are fixed to the front of the vanity case 200 (shown in Figure 2A).

Figure 2C shows a vanity case 200 containing a mirror 201 in an open configuration, according to certain aspects of the invention. The inside of the first section 210a forms a first chamber 209a. The inside of the second section 210b forms a second chamber 209b. The second chamber 209b holds a mirror 201 and two LED light sources 202a, 202b. The first chamber 209a is configured to hold cosmetics and may be divided into compartments. A second mirror 212 is also provided within the second chamber 209b of the vanity case 200. The second mirror 212 is a detachable magnification mirror and is attached to the reflective surface of the mirror 201 by means of a plurality of magnets. The plurality of magnets ensure that the second mirror is attached at the correct orientation. In some embodiments, a magnetically-operated switch, such as a reed switch, is provided in the second section 210b of the case and a magnet is embedded in the first section 210a of the case such that when the case is closed, the magnet and the reed switch are in close proximity. When the case is closed and the magnet is in close proximity to the reed switch, the magnetic field of the magnet activates the reed switch, which is configured to cut off power to the LED light sources. Therefore, the light source is automatically deactivated when the case is closed.

Figure 3 shows a single LED light source array 302 according to certain embodiments of the present invention. The LED light source 302 consists of two rows of LED lights 317a, 317b. Each row of LED lights 317a, 317b comprises 25 alternating blue LED lights 318 and yellow LED lights 319. The blue LED lights 318 provide the variability in brightness and the yellow LED lights 319 provide the variability in colour temperature. The variability in brightness and colour temperature is achieved by varying the input voltage to the blue and yellow LED lights 318, 319. An input is received from the means for controlling the colour temperature and light intensity by a processing element. The processing element then varies the input voltage to the LED light source according to the input it receives. For example, where the means for controlling the colour temperature and/or light intensity is a touch spot on the mirror, when the user touches said touch spot, the processing means increases the input to the LED light source resulting in an increase in colour temperature and/or light intensity.

I n this embodiment, the LED lights are staggered in each row of LED lights by alternating between blue LED lights 318 and yellow LED lights 319. The staggering of the blue and yellow LED lights 318, 319 has the effect of providing a clean and even light source to the user across a range of different light intensities and colour temperatures. A skilled person would understand that the blue LED lights 318 and yellow LED lights 319 could be arranged in alternative configurations. For example, the blue LED lights 318 and yellow LED lights 319 may be offset from one another.

I n some embodiments, the blue LED lights may be in a first row of LED lights and the yellow LED lights may be located in a second row of LED lights. A skilled person would understa nd that there may be one row of LED lights containing both blue LED lights and yellow LED lights or alternatively, there may be two or more rows of LED lights, which in turn could be separate rows of blue LED lights and yellow LED light or each row may contain both blue and yellow LED lights in different configurations. In some embodiments, the LED lights may be arranged around the entire perimeter of the mirror in a circular or rectangular formation, or alternatively extend a round only part of the perimeter of the mirror in other conformations such as "V-shaped" conformations.

The variability of the light colour temperature and brightness allows the user to simulate different light conditions when applying cosmetics, allowing the user to mimic morning, daytime, evening and candlelight conditions to achieve an even application of cosmetics as viewed in differing lighting conditions. As mentioned above, in one embodiment, there are multiple fixed settings for colour temperature that are pre-set to simulate preferred light conditions whilst the brightness can be varied continuously. However, it would be understood that the controllers could allow continuously variable light combinations through both the kelvin spectrum (or a part thereof) and also low to bright light settings.

Figure 4 provides a sim plified schematic diagram showing a friction hinge according to certain embodiments of the present invention. The hinge assembly 405 connects the first and second section 410a, 410b of the vanity case. The hinge assembly 405 is fixed to the first section of the vanity case 410a by means of a first bolt 420a. The hinge assembly 405 is fixed to the second section of the vanity case 410b by means of a second bolt 420b. The hinge assembly 405 is a friction hinge which allows the second section of the vanity case 410b to be positioned and held at any a ngle up to 140 degrees relative to the first section of the vanity case 410a. Advantageously, this allows users to position the mirror (not shown) at an optima l angle for the application of cosmetics when the vanity case is placed on a surface.

Figure 5 provides a simplified schematic diagram showing a mirror according to certain embodiments of the present invention. The mirror 501 is positioned within a vanity case 500. The vanity case comprises a first section 510a and a second section 510b. Within the first section 510a is a first chamber 509a which is further divided into four compartments by three dividing elements 514a, 514b, 514c. The compartments provided by the dividing elements 514a, 514b, 514c are configured to hold and organise a variety of cosmetics. Attached to the first section 510a are two flaps 515a, 515b. The flaps can be folded inwards to cover the first chamber 509a of the vanity case 500 when the vanity case 500 is to be closed. When the flaps 515a, 515b are folded inwards so as to cover the first chamber 509a, and the vanity case 500 is in the closed configuration, the flaps 515a, 515b cover the contents of the first chamber 509a and therefore provide protection to the mirror 501 from items stored within the first chamber 509a which may damage the mirror 501 when the vanity case 500 is in transit.

When the vanity case 500 is open, the flaps 515a, 515b can folded out so they extend outwardly from the first section 510a of the vanity case 500. The flaps 515a, 515b are configured to store items such as pencils and brushes for applying cosmetics. The flaps 515a, 515b are covered in a wipeable material to enable any make up which is transferred from the brushes onto the surface of the flaps 515a, 515b to be easily removed.

Figure 6 shows simplified schematic diagrams showing different views of a vanity case containing a mirror according to certain preferred embodiments of the present invention. Figure 6A shows a vanity case 600 containing a mirror in a closed configuration according to certain aspects of the present invention. The vanity case comprises a first section 610a and a second section 610b held together at the front of the case by two clasps 611a, 611b. On the second section 610b of the case 600, there is a charging port 606 which comprises a USB connection point and charge indicator light. Additionally, located on the second section 610b of the case, is a handle 613 for convenient transport of the case 600.

Figure 6B shows a vanity case 600 containing a mirror 601 in an open configuration according to certain aspects of the present invention. The inside of the first section 610a forms a first chamber 609a and the inside of the second section 610b forms a second chamber 609b. Within the second chamber 609b, there is a mirror 601. Located within the second chamber 609b, there are also two LED light sources 602a, 602b which are positioned behind the mirror 601, and aligned with light transmissive windows which are located towards the left and right hand sides of the outer circumference of the mirror, thus allowing the user to be illuminated from multiple angles whilst using the mirror 601. This has a particular advantage of minimising shadows.

Also located within the second chamber 609b is a power supply.

A second mirror 612, is located in the second chamber 609b of the case 600 and is magnetically attached to the mirror 601. The second mirror 612 is a detachable magnification mirror.

Three touch activated spots are located within the second chamber 609b on the mirror 601, the central touch activated spot is a power control 603. Activation of the power control 603 switches the LED light sources 602a, 602b on and off. The other two touch activated spots are a first and second parameter control 604a, 604b. The two parameter controls 604a, 604b alter the parameters of the LED light sources 602a, 602b. The first parameter control 604a alters the brightness of the LED light sources 602a, 602b and the second parameter control 604b alters the colour temperature of the LED light sources 602a, 602b.

Within the first chamber 609a of the case 600 are two flaps 615a, 615b. The flaps 615a, 615b are attached at their peripheral edge to the first chamber 609a and when folded, cover the first chamber 609a.

Figure 6C shows a vanity case 600 containing a mirror in an open configuration showing the flaps unfolded according to certain aspects of the present invention. The flaps 615a, 615b are shown in their unfolded configuration, extending from the left and right sides of the first section 610a of the case 600. The flaps 615a, 615b are adapted for the storage of makeup items such as make up brushes and make up pencils.

The first chamber 609a further comprises three dividing elements 614a, 614b, 614c. The three dividing elements 614a, 614b, 614c separate the first chamber 609a into four storage compartments, configured to hold make up items. The dividing elements 614a, 614b, 614c have a height lower than that of the walls of the first section 610a, allowing larger make up items, such as make up palettes, to be stored on top of the dividing elements 614a, 614b, 614c in the space in between the dividing elements 614a, 614b, 614c and the flaps 615a, 615b.

The following provides a further description of the invention.

ADDITIONAL TECHNICAL DESCRIPTION

The product is a compact moveable vanity space consisting of the following features;

• A stylish compact unit consisting of an upper and lower chamber with a carry handle for ease of moving the product around the home or outdoors.

• The lower chamber internally consists of a base tray designed for smart storage which houses the makeup.

• Attached to this are fold out flaps for holding & organising smaller makeup items such as pencils & small brushes plus multiple other uses (covered in detail below).

• The upper chamber internally comprises of a large fitted mirror spanning its full length with an integrated bright lamp closely simulating natural day light.

• The lights have three adjustable levels of brightness and are USB chargeable, controlled by a reed switch & a PCB.

• There are magnets placed behind the mirror to hold a smaller detachable magnification mirror.

• A special hinge system is used to allow the mirror to be angled & held

securely into position whilst also joining the lower and upper chambers together.

• Clasps are used to hold the two sections closed when the product is not in use.

The main body consists of two plastic shells creating the upper & lower chambers. The overall dimensions of the unit measure approximately 292.5 x 238 x 98mm.

A lip & groove rim, both made from extruded aluminum are moulded to the external edge of the plastic shell to provide a high amount of rigidity to the unit.

Whilst also providing a means to secure the metal clasps & secure the torque hinges via riveting.

THE UPPER CHAMBER

The upper chamber houses the Mirror, LEDs lights, Rechargeable Battery, Reed Switch, PCB and the USB charging port.

The Mirror:

The mirror is acrylic with a scratch resistant coating measuring approximately 270x200mm and is 3mm, more preferably 4mm, thick. The mirror will be distortion-free & high-quality backed by a high-purity coating providing a superior reflectivity and clarity.

Two vertical LED light strips have been placed on the right and left sides behind the mirror to provide an evenly dispersed blanket of light on the face. The surface of the mirror has been laser etched to allow the light to shine through in these areas. Other processes such as sand blasting, chemical etching or screen printing of the mirror layer could also achieve the same result.

The Lights:

The lights are two COB LED's rated at 6000k and 5 watts. They are diffused using a diffusing film sheet adhered to the back of the mirror.

Lasting approximately a week of use on full brightness before having to charge again. With a high colour rendering index (CRI) of above 90, the light provided is much brighter than found normally on makeup mirrors and more closely simulates natural daylight.

The Battery:

I n this prototype the battery is 8000mah 3.7V Li-Po Battery which provides 5-6 hours of continuous light on full brightness. This lasts much more than the desired weekly amount before requiring to be charged. This is with the assumption that the light will be used 45 minutes per day during that week. In reality most women take less than this time to do their makeup daily. Therefore we plan to reduce the battery capacity to 4.5 hours. This in return will help optimise the overall weight & cost of the product.

The Reed Switch & PCB: The switch is a momentary switch plated in a rose gold panel mounted into the mirror.

The PCB can charge the battery via the side mounted USB Port, provide indications of low power by pulsing the front LED's & provide notification of charging via a flashing white LED next to the charging micro USB port. It can also notify a full charge by making the flashing LED (next to the micro USB port) solid white. The PCB provided enables the switch to have the following 4 functions.

Click 1. Switches the LED's onto the lowest setting

Click 2. Activates the medium brightness setting

Click 3. Activates the full brightness setting Click 4. Deactivates the unit.

I n addition the unit consists of a magnetic switch that provides a cut off in case the momentary switch is activated when the lid is closed. This is achieved via a reed switch embedded in the upper lid tray and a magnet embedded into the handle edge of the base tray. When the lid is closed the field magnetic field in the base tray activates the switch and ensures power to the LED's is always cutoff.

Magnification Mirror:

Compact detachable mirror with inbuilt magnets that allow the compact mirror to fix to two points on the main mirror. Top left and top right.

Size: 77.3x77.3x7mm

Material : ABS, 5X Magnification Mirror, 10mm Neodymium magnet

The USB:

The USB assembly consists of a plastic injected molded part that is inserted into the side of the lid of the case. This part contains a rubber bung and is fixed in position inside the lid via adhesive and the USB PCB which is screwed into the back locking the part into place. This plastic part also houses a light pipe which tunnels the light from the PCB to show an indication of charging (flashing) and fully charged (full white light when plugged in).

THE LOWER CHAMBER

The lower chamber internally consists of the base tray designed for smart storage of makeup. Externally, attached to the lower chamber is the carry handle & non slip feet.

Base Tray: Through multiple iterations, the base tray has been optimised & divided into specific sections for various makeup items. The tray provides a simple innovative design to easily organise the vast array of different makeup items. The material will be a form of plastic such as ABS. It has been designed & optimised to store makeup items such as pencils, brushes, makeup bottles, compacts & palettes.

Left section-

Optimized for compacts and eye shadows

83x195x40 (WxLxD) Lower central section-

Optimized for general makeup items such as eye shadows lipstick and eyeliners 114.5x148x30 (WxLxD)

Right Section- Optimized for brushes 83x195x40 (WxLxD)

Top Central Section-

Optimized for liquid foundation bottles.

53.5x195x30 (WxLxD)

Central Section- As the dividing horizontal wall is only 30mm, 10mm shorter than the vertical walls the central section has the potential to store larger items such as palettes above.

Optimized for makeup pallettes.

114.5x195x20 (WxLxD)

The Handle & Feet: The slimline handle is attached, via bolts, externally to the front edge of the lower chamber.

The underside of the lower chamber externally has four non slip feet positioned in the corners for ease of use on any surface. THE FLAPS:

The flaps provide 4 functions.

1- Organising & storing small brushes, pencils and palettes.

2- Protecting the mirror from makeup transferring onto its surface. 3- Protecting the makeup from banging into the mirror and potentially breaking.

These flaps are constructed by laminating sheets of vinyl material around a card and foam base. EXTERNAL

Externally attached to both the upper & lower chambers are the hinges & the clasps.

Hinges:

The hinges selected are butterfly torque hinges & are designed to hold the upper chamber containing the mirror & light to any fixed angle up to 155 degrees. These hinges are made of rose gold plated steel. The mirror tilting back so far allows a comfortable & clear view. They also securely attach the lower & upper chambers of the unit together.

Clasps:

Two clasps attached externally to the front edge of both the upper and lower chambers provide a means of holding the unit closed. They consist of a latch & hasp. They are made from pot metal & are plated in rose gold.

Incorporating the features disclosed above, an example of a compact moveable vanity case is provided in the accompanying figures 6 - 7.

The present disclosure is further described in the following numbered clauses:

Clause 1. A vanity case, comprising: a main body consisting of two shells creating a lower chamber and upper chamber wherein the lower chamber and the upper chamber are joined together by a hinge system; wherein the lower chamber comprises: a base tray divided into storage sections, and wherein fold-out flaps are attached to the base tray, and wherein the upper chamber comprises: a main mirror, lights behind the main mirror, wherein the lights closely simulate natural daylight, and wherein the light shines through the mirror, a detachable magnification mirror affixed to the main mirror, and a control circuit, comprising a rechargeable battery, switch means, and an integrated USB charging port.

Clause 2. The vanity case of clause 1, wherein the hinge system comprises butterfly torque hinges, allowing the mirror to be held at any angle of up to 155 degrees. Clause 3. The vanity case of clause 1, further comprising an indicator light on the exterior of the case indicating power and charging levels.

Clause 4. The vanity case of clause 3, wherein the indicator light pulses to indicate low power, flashes to indicate charging and remains solid when fully charged. Clause 5. The vanity case of clause 1, wherein the foldout flaps are configured to; organise and store makeup items, protect the mirror from transfer of makeup, protect the mirror from damage, and reduce items moving from one storage section to the other when travelling.

Clause 6. The vanity case of clause 1, wherein the mirror is acrylic with scratch resistant coating.

Clause 7. The vanity case of clause 1, wherein the main mirror is processed to allow the light to shine through. Clause 8. The vanity case of clause 1, wherein the lights comprise LEDs.

Clause 9. The vanity case of clause 8, wherein the LEDs have a colour rendering index, CRI, greater than 90.

Clause 10. The vanity case of clauses 8 or 9, wherein the LEDs are rated to emit light equivalent to 6000K. Clause 11. The vanity case of clause 1, wherein the switch means comprises a momentary switch, wherein the momentary switch enables selection of three brightness settings and a deactivation setting.

Clause 12. The vanity case of clause 1, wherein the switch means comprises a magnetic switch and a reed switch, wherein on closure of the vanity case, the magnetic switch magnetises the reed switch to cut off power.

Clause 13. The vanity case of clause 1, further comprising an exterior carry handle.

Clause 14. The vanity case of clause 1, further comprising non slip feet positioned on the exterior of the lower chamber. Clause 15. The vanity case of clause 1, further comprising external clasps for holding the case closed.

All of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), and/or all of the steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be combined in any combination, except combinations where at least some of such features and/or steps are mutually exclusive. Each feature disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings) may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent or similar purpose, unless expressly stated otherwise. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed is one example only of a generic series of equivalent or similar features. The invention is not restricted to the details of the foregoing embodiment(s). The invention extends to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), or to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the steps of any method or process so disclosed.

With respect to the use of substantially any plural and/or singular terms herein , those having skill in the art can translate from the plural to the singular and/or from the singular to the plural as is appropriate to the context and/or application. The various singular/plural permutations may be expressly set forth herein for sake of clarity. It will be understood by those within the art that, in general, terms used herein, and especially in the appended claims are generally intended as "open" terms (e.g., the term "including" or "comprising" should be interpreted as "including but not limited to," the term "having" should be interpreted as "having at least," the term "includes" should be interpreted as "includes but is not limited to," etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such an intent will be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence of such recitation no such intent is present. For example, as an aid to understanding, the following appended claims may contain usage of the introductory phrases "at least one" and "one or more" to introduce claim recitations. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed to imply that the introduction of a claim recitation by the indefinite articles "a" or "an" limits any particular claim containing such introduced claim recitation to embodiments containing only one such recitation , even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases "one or more" or "at least one" and indefinite articles such as "a" or "an" (e.g., "a" and/or "an" should be interpreted to mean "at least one" or "one or more"); the same holds true for the use of definite articles used to introduce claim recitations. In addition, even if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitly recited, those skilled in the art will recognize that such recitation should be interpreted to mean at least the recited number (e.g., the bare recitation of "two recitations, " without other modifiers, means at least two recitations, or two or more recitations). It will be appreciated that various embodiments of the present disclosure have been described herein for purposes of illustration, and that various modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Accordingly, the various embodiments disclosed herein are not intended to be limiting, with the true scope being indicated by the following claims.

Claims

1. An illuminating mirror comprising:

a reflective mirror surface;

at least one light source behind or adjacent the reflective mirror surface; at least one power source for the at least one light source or means of connecting to a power source;

2. The illuminating mirror of claim 1, wherein the at least one light source is configured to illuminate a user looking at the reflective mirror surface.

3. The illuminating mirror as in any of the previous claims, wherein the at least one light source is an LED.

4. The illuminating mirror of claim 3, wherein the mirror comprises a plurality of LED light sources.

5. The illuminating mirror of claims 3 to 4, wherein the at least one LED light source is configured to emit light having a colour temperature between 2000 K and 7000 K.

6. The illuminating mirror of claims 3 to 5, wherein at least one LED light source is configured to emit light having a brightness between 2000 Lumens and 7000 Lumens.

7. The illuminating mirror of claims 3 to 6, wherein the LED light source is an array of LED lights.

8. The illuminating mirror of claim 7, wherein the array of LED lights comprises blue LED lights and yellow LED lights.

9. The illuminating mirror of claims 3 to 8, wherein the LED light source comprises one or more chip-on-board LEDs.

10. The illuminating mirror of claims 3 to 9, wherein the at least one LED light source comprises a plurality of LEDs, a first set of which are variable with respect to the colour temperature of the light which they emit and a second set of which are variable with respect to the brightness of the light which they emit.

11. The illuminating mirror of claim 10, wherein the LEDs from the first set of LEDs and LEDs from the second set of LEDs are arranged in a staggered formation.

12. The illuminating mirror as in any of the previous claims, wherein the mirror

comprises a second reflective mirrored section.

13. The illuminating mirror of claim 12, wherein the second reflective mirrored section is detachable from the first reflective mirror surface.

14. The illuminating mirror of claim 13, wherein the second reflective mirrored section is magnetically attached to the first reflective mirror surface.

15. The illuminating mirror of claims 12 to 14, wherein the second reflective mirrored section is a magnification mirror.

16. The illuminating mirror as in any of the previous claims, wherein the power source is a rechargeable battery.

17. The illuminating mirror of claims 4 to 16, wherein the plurality of LEDs are arranged at, or near to, at least a portion of the outer circumference of the first reflective mirror surface.

18. The illuminating mirror of claims 4 to 17, wherein at least some of the plurality of

LEDs are arranged at, or near to, the left and right edges of the first reflective mirror surface.

19. The illuminating mirror of claims 4 to 18, wherein at least some of the plurality of LEDs are arranged at, or near to, the top and bottom sides of the first reflective mirror surface.

20. The illuminating mirror of claims 4 to 19, wherein the plurality of LEDs are provided as one or more arrays of circumferentially spaced-apart LEDs.

21. A vanity case comprising a mirror according to any of claims 1 to 20 disposed

therewithin.

22. The vanity case of claim 21, wherein the case comprises at least two sections, a lid section and a base section.

23. The vanity case of claim 22, wherein the mirror is disposed on the inner surface of the lid section.

24. The vanity case of claims 22 to 23, wherein the two sections are connected by a hinge.

25. The vanity case of claim 24, wherein the hinge is a friction hinge.

26. The vanity case of claims 22 to 25, wherein the two sections of the case are securely held in a closed formation by means of at least one clasp.

27. The vanity case of claims 22 to 26, wherein at least one section of the case, typically the base section, is further sub-divided into at least two internal sections.

28. The vanity case of claims 22 to 27, wherein the outer lower surface of the base section has one or more non-slip sections.