WO2021256152A1

WO2021256152A1 - Hair cutting device

Info

Publication number: WO2021256152A1
Application number: PCT/JP2021/019134
Authority: WO
Inventors: 秀紀春日井
Original assignee: パナソニックＩｐマネジメント株式会社
Priority date: 2020-06-18
Filing date: 2021-05-20
Publication date: 2021-12-23
Also published as: JP2021194485A; JP7437690B2

Abstract

The purpose of the present disclosure is to provide a hair cutting device with improved reliability pertaining to light output. A hair cutting device (1) of one aspect of the present disclosure comprises a light-emitting module (M1), a cover (30), a detection region (D2), and a detection unit (D1). The light-emitting module (M1) has a light waveguide (4) including a core section and cuts hair by emitting light onto hair protruding from the skin. The cover (30) is configured so as to cover the light-emitting module (M1). The detection region (D2) is arranged inside the cover (30), and target light (OB1) originating from light propagating within the light waveguide (4) passes through the detection region (D2). The detection unit (D1) detects the target light (OB1) within the detection region (D2).

Description

Hair cutting device

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

Patent Document 1 describes a device configured to cut hair using a laser beam. The apparatus described in Patent Document 1 includes a laser light source and a fiber optical system. The laser light source is configured to generate a laser beam having a wavelength selected to target a predetermined chromophore in order to effectively cut the hair. Fiber optics have proximal and distal ends, an outer wall, and a cut region located towards the distal end that extends along a portion of the sidewall. The fiber optics receive laser light from a laser light source at the proximal end, guide the laser light from the proximal end to the distal end, and when the cut region comes into contact with the hair, light from the cut region towards the hair. Is released.

Special Table 2016-514491

In the configuration described in Patent Document 1, for example, the light output may decrease due to aged deterioration, abnormality, dirt, etc. that may occur in a laser light source, a fiber optical system, or the like. Therefore, in order to put the hair cutting device using light into practical use, it is required to improve the reliability of the light output.

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

The hair cutting device of one aspect of the present disclosure includes a light emitting module, a cover, a detection area, and a detection unit. The light emitting module has an optical waveguide including a core portion, and cuts the hair by emitting light to the hair protruding from the skin. The cover is configured to cover the light emitting module. The detection region is arranged in the cover, and the target light caused by the light transmitted in the optical waveguide passes through. The detection unit detects the target light in the detection area.

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

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

(1) Overview Hereinafter, an outline of the hair cutting device 1 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 5B. The hair cutting device 1 is a device that cuts the hair 91 by applying light to the hair 91 (see FIG. 6A). The hair 91 to be cut by the hair cutting device 1 is, for example, a human “beard” or the like, but is not particularly limited, and various hairs protruding from the human skin 92 (for example, body hair of an arm or leg, etc.) )including. In FIG. 6A, the hair 91 and the skin 92 are shown by an imaginary line (dashed-dotted line).

In short, the hair cutting device 1 gives light energy to the hair 91 instead of the "blade", unlike a general "razor" or "scissors" that cuts the hair 91 with a physical "blade". Then, the hair 91 is cut. Therefore, the hair cutting device 1 is less likely to damage the skin 92 or the like around the hair 91 as compared with a general "razor" or "scissors", and further, physical deterioration such as blade spillage is also caused. It is unlikely to occur.

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

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

As shown in FIG. 3, the light emission module M1 has an optical waveguide 4 including a core portion 41. The light emitting module M1 cuts the hair 91 by emitting light to the hair 91 protruding from the skin 92.

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

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

In the present embodiment, as described above, since the hair cutting device 1 includes the detection unit D1 and the detection area D2, for example, the detection result of the detection unit D1 can be used. For example, the light output of the hair cutting device 1 (light emitted from the light emission module M1) due to an abnormality, aged deterioration, dirt, or the like that may occur in the light source 21, the light emission module M1, the optical system 22 (see FIG. 2), or the like. ) May decrease. By using the detection result of the detection unit D1, it is possible to take measures for such a decrease in light output (feedback control such as automatic stop of the light source 21 and light output correction, user notification, etc.). As a result, there is an advantage that the hair cutting device 1 having improved reliability regarding light output can be provided.

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

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

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

In the following, as an example, three axes of X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis that are orthogonal to each other are set, and in particular, the axis along the length of the optical waveguide 4 is "X-axis", and the opening of the cover 30 of the hair cutting member 3 is set. The axis along the facing direction when the portion 31 and the skin 92 face each other is referred to as a “Y axis”. The X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis are all virtual axes, and the arrows indicating "X", "Y", and "Z" in the drawings are shown for illustration purposes only. , Neither is accompanied by substance. Further, these directions are not intended to limit the directions when the hair cutting device 1 is used. The direction of the optical axis C1 (see FIG. 2) of the optical waveguide 4 is a direction along the X axis.

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

Further, the "cutting" of the hair 91 in the present disclosure includes cutting the hair 91 in general, for example, cutting the hair 91 at the root (that is, shaving the hair), and cutting the hair 91 to an appropriate length. Includes aligning and cutting only the ends of the hair. Therefore, the "hair cutting device" referred to in the present disclosure includes, for example, a "shaver" or a "hair clipper" which is a device for shaving the hair 91, and a device for cutting hair with an appropriate length. Includes "trima", "hair clippers" or "scissors" and the like. Further, the "cutting" of the hair 91 referred to in the present disclosure not only cuts the hair 91 in two on a substantially planar cut surface, but also damages the cut portion of the hair 91 to cut the hair 91. It also includes breaking at the part. In the present embodiment, as an example, a case where the hair cutting device 1 is a device (shaver) suitable for cutting (that is, shaving) the hair 91 (whisker) to be cut at the root will be described.

Further, the "laser beam" referred to in the present disclosure means light generated by stimulated emission (Light Amplification by Simulated Emission of Radiation). Examples of the light source 21 that generates laser light include a semiconductor laser (LD: Laser Diode) that utilizes recombination light emission of a semiconductor. Compared to light generated by a light emitting diode (LED: Light Emitting Diode), laser light has high coherence, high output (power density), high monochromaticity (single wavelength), and directionality. It has the characteristic of being highly sexual.

Further, the "optical waveguide" referred to in the present disclosure means an optical member that guides light along a desired path by passing light. Specific examples of the optical waveguide include an optical fiber having a core and a clad having different refractive indexes from each other and covering the core with a clad. The optical fiber can guide the light along a desired path by passing the light inside the core by utilizing the total reflection of the light at the interface between the core and the clad. Here, the optical waveguide is not limited to a transmission path through which a communication signal (optical signal) is passed, and means an entire optical member that guides light along a desired path.

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

Further, the "refractive index" referred to in the present disclosure is a value obtained by dividing the speed of light in a vacuum by the speed of light in a medium (more accurately, the phase velocity). The refractive index is basically determined depending on the substance. For example, the refractive index of air is "1.003" and the refractive index of water is "1.3334". Even for the same substance, the refractive index may differ depending on the wavelength of the incident light, but in the present disclosure, the refractive index is shown for light having a wavelength of 404.7 nm (mercury h-line) unless otherwise specified. And.

Further, the "power density" referred to in the present disclosure means the light intensity per ^{unit area (1 cm 2).} The unit of power density is "kW / cm ² " or "J / (s · cm ² )". Even if the distribution of light intensity varies in the cross section of the optical waveguide 4, the light intensity passing through the optical waveguide 4 is divided by the cross-sectional area of the core portion 41 of the optical waveguide 4 to average over the entire cross section of the core portion 41. The average power density obtained can be obtained. In this disclosure, unless otherwise specified, the average power density obtained in this way is referred to as "power density".

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

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

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

Further, the hair cutting member 3 further includes a fixing member F1, an adhesive member G1, a cover 30, and a fixing cap 34. The light emission module M1 has an optical waveguide 4 and a holding member 5. The holding member 5 holds the optical waveguide 4 in a form in which a part of the core portion 41 described later of the optical waveguide 4 is exposed. Further, the light emission module M1 further has a fixed block 32.

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

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

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

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

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

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

As an example, the cover 30 is formed in the shape of an elongated square cylinder having a length along the X axis. In the present embodiment, by connecting the ferrule 71 of the hair cutting member 3 and the receptacle portion 81 of the case 20, the hair cutting device 1 has a substantially I shape as a whole when viewed from one side of the Z axis. Consists of the appearance of.

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

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

As described above, the hair cutting device 1 having a substantially I-shaped appearance as a whole is used in the same manner as the "straight blade razor". That is, when the user cuts the hair 91 (here, “whisker”) to be cut (here, “shave”), the user holds the grip of the hair cutting device 1, that is, the case 20 with one hand to cut the hair. Grasp the device 1. In this state, the user brings the head of the hair cutting device 1, that is, one surface of the hair cutting member 3 in the Y-axis direction into contact with the user's skin 92, and moves the hair cutting member 3 along the skin 92 in the Z-axis direction. By doing so, the hair 91 is cut by the light emitting portion 40 of the hair cutting member 3. At this time, the user touches the skin 92 with the surface of the hair cutting member 3 facing the negative direction of the Y axis, and moves the hair cutting member 3 in the positive direction of the Z axis to cut the hair. The hair 91 located in front of the traveling direction of the member 3 (head) (that is, in the positive direction of the Z axis) is cut.

The hair cutting device 1 may have another form in addition to the stick-shaped form (substantially I-shaped form) as the usage form. For example, the apparatus main body 2 has a shaft portion that can rotate within a predetermined angle range in the vicinity of the receptacle portion 81, and the hair cutting member 3 and the case 20 have a substantially I-shaped shape and are substantially L. It may be deformable so as to have a character shape. In this case, the user can selectively change the usage pattern of the hair cutting device 1 from a stick-shaped form and an L-shaped form.

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

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

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

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

The control circuit 6 is a circuit that controls at least the light source 21. The control circuit 6 causes the light source 21 to emit light (lights up) by supplying electric power to the light source 21. Further, the control circuit 6 switches the lighting / extinguishing of the light source 21 and adjusts the output (brightness, wavelength, etc.) of the light source 21. The control circuit 6 includes a printed wiring board (board) and a plurality of electronic components mounted on the printed wiring board. In addition to the light source 21, the control circuit 6 also controls the fan 24, the operation unit 26, and the like. The control circuit 6 will be described in detail in the column of “(2.6) Control circuit”.

The optical system 22 is arranged between the light source 21 and the receptacle section 81, and guides the light from the light source 21 to the optical waveguide 4. The optical system 22 includes a plurality of lenses. In the example of FIG. 3, the optical system 22 includes a first lens 221, a second lens 222, a third lens 223, and a fourth lens 224. However, FIG. 3 does not show exactly the shape and arrangement of the individual lenses, but merely schematically shows the optical system 22.

The battery 23 functions as a power source for supplying electric power for driving the control circuit 6, the light source 21, the fan 24, and the like. As an example in the present embodiment, the battery 23 is a secondary battery such as a lithium ion battery (LIB: Lithium Ion Battery) that can be charged and discharged.

The fan 24 is a cooling fan for cooling the light source 21. Specifically, the fan 24 promotes heat dissipation of the heat sink 25 by generating an air flow passing through the heat sink 25 in the case 20.

The heat sink 25 is made of a material having a relatively high thermal conductivity, for example, aluminum or the like. The heat sink 25 is thermally coupled to the light source 21 and mainly dissipates heat from the light source 21.

The operation unit 26 receives the user's operation and outputs an electric signal corresponding to the user's operation to the control circuit 6. As an example in the present embodiment, the operation unit 26 has at least one mechanical switch such as a push switch or a slide switch.

Under the control of the control circuit 6, the notification unit 27 switches the emission color of the indicator light (light source), switches the lighting state from continuous lighting to blinking lighting, and the like, thereby producing the detection result of the detection unit D1. Notify the user of the corresponding information.

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

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

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

In the optical waveguide 4, from one end surface (light receiving surface 40A) in the X-axis direction to the other end surface (end surface 40B), a part of the circumferential direction of the core portion 41 is outside the outer peripheral surface 420 of the clad portion 42. It is arranged eccentrically so as to project to.

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

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

As shown in FIG. 3, the first region 401 of the optical waveguide 4 is a region that is held in contact with the holding member 5. The light emitting unit 40 is within the range of the first region 401.

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

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

The holding member 5 is fixed to the fixing block 32. The holding member 5 is fixed to the fixing block 32 by an appropriate means such as adhesion, welding, pasting, or bonding using a fastening member (screw or the like). As a result, the optical waveguide 4 (first region 401) is indirectly fixed to the fixing block 32 via the holding member 5.

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

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

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

Although not shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the hair cutting device 1 is, for example, a component such as a charging circuit for a battery 23 or a display unit for displaying an operating state of the hair cutting device 1. May be further provided.

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

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

FIG. 5A is a cross-sectional view (5A-5A line cross-sectional view of FIG. 5B) in which the cover 30 accommodating the light emission module M1 is cut along the YZ plane at substantially the center in the longitudinal direction thereof. FIG. 5B is a view (front view) of the cover 30 accommodating the light emission module M1 as viewed from the negative side in the Y-axis direction in the positive direction. FIG. 6A is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the configuration around the optical waveguide 4 and the holding member 5 in the hair cutting member 3. FIG. 6B is an enlarged view of a main part of FIG. 6A.

In the present embodiment, as described above, the hair cutting member 3 includes a light emitting module M1, a ferrule 71, a holder portion H1, a fixing member F1, an adhesive member G1, a cover 30, a fixing cap 34, and a sensor. A unit S1, a detection unit D1, and a detection area D2 are provided.

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

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

The clad portion 42 covers the periphery of the core portion 41 except for a part from the light receiving surface 40A to the terminal surface 40B. Here, both the core portion 41 and the clad portion 42 have relatively high light transmittance. However, the refractive index of the core portion 41 and the clad portion 42 are different, and the refractive index of the core portion 41 is larger than that of the clad portion 42. With this configuration, the light incident on the core portion 41 from the light receiving surface 40A is totally reflected or refracted at the interface between the core portion 41 and the clad portion 42 so that only the core portion 41 passes through the optical waveguide 4 as much as possible. It reaches the tip portion (the end portion including the end surface 40B on the opposite side of the light receiving surface 40A).

In the optical waveguide 4, for example, both the core portion 41 and the clad portion 42 are made of synthetic quartz. For example, the core portion 41 is made of synthetic quartz, and the clad portion 42 is made of synthetic quartz having an impurity added, which has a different refractive index from that of the core portion 41. In the present embodiment, as an example, when the fiber incident NA (Numerical Aperture) is "0.1", the refractive index of the core portion 41 is "1.4698" and the refractive index of the clad portion 42 is "1.4309". ". When the fiber incident NA is "0.2", the refractive index of the core portion 41 is "1.4698" and the refractive index of the clad portion 42 is "1.309". The NA and the refractive index mentioned here are merely examples, and do not mean to define the difference between the refractive index of the core portion 41 and the refractive index of the clad portion 42.

As shown in FIG. 3, the core portion 41 is arranged eccentrically on the outer peripheral side of the clad portion 42. Seen from the light receiving surface 40A, the core portion 41 and the clad portion 42 are each circular. However, when viewed from the light receiving surface 40A, the outer peripheral portion of the core portion 41 may be cut to form a D shape. The light receiving surface 40A is flush with the end surface 710 of the ferrule 71.

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

The core portion 41 is arranged on the outer peripheral portion of the clad portion 42, and a part of the core portion 41 is exposed from the outer peripheral portion. Therefore, the light passing through the optical waveguide 4 is likely to leak to the outside through the exposed part thereof.

Of the optical waveguide 4, the portion covered by the holding member 5 cannot leak light to the hair 91, and therefore does not function as a light emitting unit 40 that emits light to the hair 91. In the present embodiment, the portion of the core portion 41 that is exposed without being covered by the clad portion 42 and is not covered by the holder portion H1 and the ferrule 71 is the light emitting portion 40. 6A and 6B show cross sections of the optical waveguide 4 including the light emitting unit 40 and the holding member 5 cut in a YY plane.

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

That is, since the light emitting portion 40 is composed of the core portion 41 of the optical waveguide 4 (optical fiber) having the core portion 41 and the clad portion 42, the refractive index of the core portion 41 is higher than the refractive index of the surface 921 of the skin 92. Is also set to be small. As an example, it is assumed that the refractive index of the surface 921 of human skin 92 is "1.4770". Then, if the refractive index of the core portion 41, which is the light emitting portion 40, is "1.4698" as described above, the condition that the refractive index of the light emitting portion 40 is smaller than the refractive index of the surface 921 of the skin 92 is satisfied. I am satisfied.

More specifically, in the present embodiment, the refractive index of the light emitting unit 40 is 1.47 or less. In short, the refractive index of the light emitting unit 40 is set in the range of "1.4700" or less so that the refractive index of the light emitting unit 40 is smaller than the refractive index of the surface 921 of the skin 92. As a result, even if the refractive index of the surface 921 of the skin 92 varies slightly, the refractive index of the light emitting portion 40 becomes smaller than the refractive index of the surface 921 of the skin 92. That is, even when the refractive index of the surface 921 of the skin 92 is slightly smaller than "1.4770", the condition that the refractive index of the light emitting portion 40 is smaller than the refractive index of the surface 921 of the skin 92 can be satisfied.

Further, the refractive index of the surface 921 of the skin 92 referred to here is smaller than the refractive index of the hair 91. That is, when the refractive index of the surface 921 of the skin 92, the hair 91 to be cut protruding from the skin 92, and the light emitting portion 40 (core portion 41) are compared, the refractive index of the hair 91 is the highest. Next, the refractive index of the surface 921 of the skin 92 is large, and the refractive index of the light emitting portion 40 is the smallest. As an example, it is assumed that the refractive index of the human hair 91 (here, “whisker”) to be cut by the hair cutting device 1 is “1.5432”. Then, if the refractive index of the surface 921 of the human skin 92 is "1.4770", the condition that the refractive index of the surface 921 of the skin 92 is smaller than the refractive index of the hair 91 is satisfied.

In short, in the present embodiment, as for the relationship of the refractive index, the refractive index of the surface 921 of the skin 92 is larger than that of the light emitting portion 40 (core portion 41), as in the case of “light emitting portion <skin <hair”. The refractive index of the hair 91 is higher than that of the surface 921 of the skin 92. That is, the refractive index of the light emitting portion 40 is smaller than the refractive index of the hair 91 to be cut and smaller than the refractive index of the surface 921 of the skin 92.

As described above, in the hair cutting device 1, the refractive index of the light emitting unit 40 is smaller than the refractive index of the hair 91 to be cut. Therefore, when the hair 91 is in contact with the light emitting unit 40, the light emitting unit 40 is in contact with the light emitting unit 40. Light leaks from the hair 91. Therefore, the hair 91 is cut by the energy of the light leaked from the light emitting unit 40 to the hair 91. The principle (mechanism) of cutting the hair 91 will be described in detail in the column of "(2.4) Usage example". On the other hand, in a state where the hair 91 is not in contact with the light emitting unit 40 and only air (refractive index: 1.0) is in contact with the light emitting unit 40, the refractive index between the light emitting unit 40 and the air is high. Due to the difference, the amount of light leaked from the light emitting unit 40 can be suppressed to a small size.

Further, as for the relationship of the refractive index, it is more preferable that the difference between the refractive index of the light emitting portion 40 and the refractive index of the hair 91 to be cut is as small as possible. That is, it is preferable that the difference between the surface 921 of the skin 92, the hair 91, and the light emitting portion 40 is as small as possible while satisfying the magnitude relationship as described above in the refractive index. As a result, the refractive index of the light emitting unit 40 becomes a value close to the refractive index of the hair 91 to be cut, and when the hair 91 is in contact with the light emitting unit 40, light leaks from the light emitting unit 40 to the hair 91. It will be easier to put out.

Here, as an example, the refractive index of the light emitting portion 40 (core portion 41) is "1.4698", the refractive index of the surface 921 of the skin 92 is "1.4770", and the refractive index of the hair 91 is "1.5432". Therefore, it can be said that the refractive index of the light emitting portion 40 and the refractive index of the surface 921 of the skin 92 are about the same. Here, "the same degree of refractive index" means that when there are two different refractive indexes, the smaller refractive index is included in the range of ± 5% of the larger refractive index. It means that both take close values. In this case, for example, assuming that the incident angle of light (the angle between the normal line of the surface 921 of the skin 92) is 80 degrees (incident NA is about 0.17), the refraction of -5% of the refractive index of the hair 91 is performed. The refractive index (s-polarization) at the interface between the object having the rate and the hair 91 is 13.2%, the reflectance (s-polarization) at the interface between the light emitting unit 40 and the hair 91 is 12.5%, and the skin 92. The refractive index (s-polarization) at the interface between the hair 91 and the hair 91 is 11.3%. Thus, even if the refractive index changes by −5%, the reflectance changes by only 2%. That is, in the present embodiment, the refractive index of the light emitting unit 40 (1.4698) and the refractive index of the surface 921 of the skin 92 are in the range of ± 5% of the refractive index of the hair 91 (1.5432). It can be said that they are at the same level.

Incidentally, as described in the column of "(2.1) Definition", the refractive index differs depending on the wavelength even if the substance is the same, but the above-mentioned relationship of the refractive index is at least the wavelength of the light output from the light source 21. It is invariant in the range of. That is, at least in the wavelength range of the light output from the light source 21 (for example, in the range of 400 nm or more and 700 nm or less), the refractive index satisfies the relationship with the “light emitting portion <skin <hair”.

Further, since the refractive index of the clad portion 42 is smaller than the refractive index of the core portion 41 which is the light emitting portion 40, the core portion 41, the clad portion 42, the surface 921 of the skin 92, and the surface 921 of the skin 92 are satisfied if the above conditions are satisfied. Among the four hairs 91, the refractive index of the clad portion 42 is the smallest. That is, the relationship between the refractive indexes of the four parties is "clad portion <core portion <skin <hair".

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

In the present embodiment, as an example, the power density of the light passing through the optical waveguide 4 at the time of cutting the hair 91 is 50 kW / cm ² or more and 300 kW / cm ² or less. Further, the power density of the light passing through the optical waveguide 4 at the time of cutting the hair 91 ^{is preferably 70 kW / cm 2} or more, and more preferably 75 kW / cm ² or more, which can cut the hair 91. Further, if the hair 91 can be cut quickly (for example, in about 0.1 seconds), the power density of the light passing through the optical waveguide 4 at the time of cutting the hair 91 is more preferably ^{100 kW / cm 2 or more.} .. Further, the power density of the light passing through the optical waveguide 4 at the time of cutting the hair 91 ^{is preferably 200 kW / cm 2} or less in consideration of the light output of the laser applicable as a consumer product, the fiber diameter and the like. In the present embodiment, as an example, it is assumed that the initial value of the power density of the light passing through the optical waveguide 4 at the time of cutting the hair 91 is 100 kW / cm ^2.

Details will be described in the columns of "(2.4) Usage example" and "(3) Action", but with this level of power density, the hair cutting device 1 moves from the light emitting unit 40 to the hair 91. It is easy to cut the hair 91 efficiently with the emitted light.

Further, in the present embodiment, the power density of the light passing through the optical waveguide 4 is variable. That is, the hair cutting device 1 according to the present embodiment is configured such that the power density of the light passing through the optical waveguide 4 is not fixed to the initial value, but the power density of the light passing through the optical waveguide 4 can be changed. There is. Here, in particular, the power density of the light passing through the optical waveguide 4 at the time of cutting the hair 91 ^{is not fixed to the initial value (100 kW / cm 2} ), but can be changed from the initial value. The power density of the light passing through the optical waveguide 4 at the time of cutting the hair 91 is preferably variable in the range of ^{50 kW / cm 2} or more and 300 kW / cm ^{2 or less.} The power density of light passing through the optical waveguide 4 may be continuously changed or may be changed stepwise (discontinuously).

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

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

The holding member 5 is a portion that holds the optical waveguide 4. In particular, the holding member 5 holds the optical waveguide 4 in a form in which a part of the core portion 41 of the optical waveguide 4 is exposed. That is, the optical waveguide 4 is held so that a part of the core portion 41 is shielded from light by the holding member 5 so that light leakage is not hindered.

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

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

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

As shown in FIG. 6A, the hair 91 to be cut is introduced into the cover 30 from the opening 31 at a position facing the light emitting portion 40 held by the holding member 5. In this state, the optical waveguide 4 held by the holding member 5 is dressed so that the light emitting portion 40 is abutted against the hair 91 to be cut. As a result, the optical waveguide 4 can bring the light emitting unit 40 into contact with the hair 91 to be cut.

The holding member 5 has a base 51 and an adhesive member 52. The adhesive member 52 adheres the optical waveguide 4 to the base 51. The base 51 and the adhesive member 52 are both made of a light-transmitting synthetic resin. In particular, the base 51 is a resin molded product that is molded using a mold. On the other hand, the adhesive member 52 is a cured product obtained by curing a paste-like resin which is an adhesive. That is, the adhesive member 52 is a cured product of an adhesive for joining the base 51 and the optical waveguide 4.

The base 51 is formed in a prismatic shape having a length along the X axis. The base 51 is bonded, welded, pasted, or bonded using a fastening member (screw, etc.) to the surface of the fixed block 32 facing the front (positive direction of the Z axis) of the hair cutting device 1 in the traveling direction. It is fixed by appropriate means. In the present embodiment, the refractive index of the base 51 is equal to or higher than the refractive index of the core portion 41 (light emitting portion 40).

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

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

In the present embodiment, the adhesive member 52 comes into direct contact with the clad portion 42 of the light emitting portion 40. Therefore, the adhesive member 52 is less likely to be restricted in terms of its refractive index, and the choice of material is widened. That is, if the refractive index of the light emitting portion 40 (core portion 41) is "1.4698", the refractive index of the adhesive member 52 may be larger than "1.4698". A clad portion 42 having a refractive index smaller than that of the light emitting portion 40 is interposed between the light emitting portion 40 and the adhesive member 52. Therefore, even if the refractive index of the adhesive member 52 is larger than that of the light emitting portion 40, the clad portion 42 can appropriately limit the amount of light leakage, and the light leaks from the core portion 41 more than necessary. It is possible to suppress a decrease in the power density of light. Of course, the refractive index of the adhesive member 52 may be equal to or lower than the refractive index of the light emitting unit 40.

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

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

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

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

The cover 30 has an insertion port 300 (see FIG. 3) on one end surface in the negative direction of the X axis. The light emission module M1 is inserted and accommodated from the insertion port 300 of the cover 30. Further, the cover 30 has a flange portion 320 at the peripheral edge of the insertion port 300.

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

The cover 30 is fixed to the holder portion H1 via the flange portion 320. Here, the fixing member F1 in the holder portion H1 is adhered to the flange portion 320, so that the cover 30 is fixed to the holder portion H1 in the form of accommodating the light emission module M1.

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

In the present embodiment, the fixing cap 34 has a regulation structure (here, screw groove 341) that regulates the removal of the ferrule 71 from the receptacle portion 81. By screwing the screw portion 810 in the receptacle portion 81 of the apparatus main body 2 into the screw groove 341 of the fixing cap 34, the removal of the ferrule 71 from the receptacle portion 81 is restricted. Therefore, it is easy to prevent the ferrule 71 from being unintentionally removed. As a result, the entire hair cutting member 3 including the ferrule 71 is less likely to fall off from the apparatus main body 2.

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

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

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

The adhesive member G1 adheres the optical waveguide 4 and the ferrule 71. The adhesive member G1 is a cured product obtained by curing a paste-like resin which is an adhesive. That is, the adhesive member G1 is a cured product of an adhesive for joining the inner peripheral surface of the ferrule 71 and the outer peripheral surface of the optical waveguide 4. The clad portion 42 is arranged so that a part of its outer peripheral surface is in contact with the inner peripheral surface of the ferrule 71. The refractive index of the adhesive member G1 is smaller than the refractive index of the core portion 41. Therefore, it is easy to suppress unnecessary light leakage from the core portion 41 to the adhesive member G1.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

(2.3.6) Holder part The holder part H1 is a part where a part of the light emitting module M1 and a part of the ferrule 71 are inserted and integrally bonded to each other.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

As shown in FIG. 1, the two sensor units S1 are arranged so as to sandwich the opening 31 of the cover 30 in the direction of the Z axis. Hereinafter, the sensor unit S1 on the positive side of the Z axis from the opening 31 is referred to as a “first sensor unit S11”, and the sensor unit S1 on the negative side of the Z axis from the opening 31 is referred to as a “second sensor unit S12”. May be called.

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

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

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

Each electrode S2 is electrically connected to the wire for the sensor unit S1 among the plurality of first connection wires 101. By attaching the hair cutting member 3 to the apparatus main body 2, each electrode S2 is electrically connected to the control circuit 6 via a connecting line (101, 102).

When the skin 92 comes into contact with the contact surface S10 of each sensor unit S1, an electric signal including a change in the capacitance of the (pseudo) capacitor composed of the electrode S2 and the human body is transmitted to the connection line (101, It is output to the control circuit 6 via 102). The control circuit 6 determines that the skin 92 has come into contact with the contact surface S10 or the skin 92 has been separated from the contact surface S10 according to the electric signal (detection signal) received from each sensor unit S1.

(2.3.8) Detection unit and detection area As shown in FIG. 5B, the detection area D2 is a region through which the target light OB1 caused by the light transmitted in the optical waveguide 4 passes. The detection area D2 is a spatial area arranged in the positive side corner of the X-axis inside the cover 30. The target light OB1 is a part of the light transmitted through the optical waveguide 4 and heading toward the detection region D2.

Here, the hair cutting device 1 of the present embodiment further includes a diffusion unit Y1 as shown in FIG. 5B. The diffusion unit Y1 is arranged in the detection region D2, transmits the light in the optical waveguide 4, and diffuses and reflects the light that has entered the detection region D2. And here, the target light OB1 includes the diffused light diffused by the diffusing part Y1. In other words, if the light transmitted in the optical waveguide 4 is the primary light, the target light OB1 is the secondary light. The diffusion portion Y1 is fixed to the cover 30 by an appropriate fixing means.

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

As shown in FIG. 5B, the end surface 40B of the tip of the light emission module M1 on the positive side of the X-axis, specifically, the tip of the optical waveguide 4, is the reflection surface of the diffusion portion Y1 in the detection region D2. It is arranged so as to face Y10. That is, among the light transmitted along the transmission direction A2 in the optical waveguide 4, light other than the light leaked from the light emitting unit 40 for cutting the hair 91 is derived from the end surface 40B. Therefore, the direct light transmitted through the optical waveguide 4 and derived from the end surface 40B is incident on the reflection surface Y10. The optical axis C1 of the optical waveguide 4 is orthogonal to the reflection surface Y10.

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

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

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

The detection unit D1 is arranged at a position where the target light OB1 can be received. The detection unit D1 has a light receiving surface D10 made of, for example, a condenser lens. The light receiving surface D10 is arranged so as to face the reflecting surface Y10 of the diffusing portion Y1.

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

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

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

While the user is using the hair cutting device 1, the light output from the light source 21 becomes the target light OB1 in the detection area D2, and the light intensity thereof is detected by the detection unit D1. The hair cutting device 1 of the present embodiment is a determination material for determining (estimating) the detection result of the light intensity by the detection unit D1 regarding the abnormal state and the deteriorated state (including the signs thereof) of the hair cutting device 1. One is to control the light output of the light source 21.

(2.4) Example of Use Next, an example of using the hair cutting device 1 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 7A to 8B.

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

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

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

Further, in the state shown in FIG. 7B, a part of the light emitted from the light emitting unit 40 to the hair 91 is scattered, so that the light from the light emitting unit 40 is also emitted to the skin 92 around the hair 91. It will be. Specifically, a part of the light leaked from the contact portion with the hair 91 in the light emitting unit 40 is scattered by the hair 91 and emitted to the skin 92. Here, as shown in FIG. 7B, the light mainly emitted to the hair 91 is referred to as the first emitted light Op1, and the light mainly emitted to the skin 92 is referred to as the second emitted light Op2. That is, in a state where the hair 91 is in contact with the light emitting unit 40, the first emitted light Op1 is emitted to the hair 91 and the second emitted light Op2 is emitted to the skin 92 from the light emitting unit 40.

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

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

However, in the hair cutting device 1, as shown in FIG. 7B, even if the light emitting unit 40 does not come into contact with the hair 91, for example, light (evanescent wave) from the interface between the light emitting unit 40 and the air to the air side. ) May be emitted to the hair 91 due to exudation or the like. Therefore, not only when the light emitting unit 40 comes into contact with the hair 91, but also when the light emitting unit 40 and the hair 91 come close to each other just before contact, in the hair cutting device 1, the light emitting unit 40 becomes the hair 91. The first emitted light Op1 may be emitted to cut the hair 91.

By the way, depending on the condition of the skin 92, as shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, when the hair 91 (here, “whisker”) is cut (here, “shaving”) using the hair cutting device 1. The light emitting portion 40 may come into contact with a part of the skin 92. 8A and 8B show an example of using the hair cutting device 1 when a raised portion 922 such as acne is present around the hair 91 (around the hair root) in the skin 92 as an example. The raised portion 922 is a raised (raised) portion of the skin 92 as compared with the surface 921 of the skin 92 around the raised portion 922.

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

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

Further, in the state shown in FIG. 8B, the light emitting portion 40 also contacts the raised portion 922 around the hair 91 in the skin 92. At this time, due to the difference in the refractive index between the light emitting portion 40 and the surface 921 (raised portion 922) of the skin 92, the light from the light emitting portion 40 leaks to the skin 92 and is emitted to the skin 92. That is, since the refractive index of the light emitting unit 40 is smaller than the refractive index of the surface 921 of the skin 92, light leaks from the light emitting unit 40 to the skin 92 when the skin 92 is in contact with the light emitting unit 40. Then, light (second emitted light Op2) is emitted from the light emitting portion 40 to the skin 92. At this time, the second emitted light Op2 is directly emitted from the light emitting portion 40 to the skin 92, and the second emitted light Op2 is mainly emitted to the raised portion 922. In particular, in the present embodiment, the portion of the optical waveguide 4 that comes into direct contact with the raised portion 922 is likely to be the clad portion 42, and the energy of the second emitted light Op2 is lower than that of the first emitted light Op1. ..

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

There is a possibility that the hair cutting member 3 will be replaced due to deterioration over time. Specifically, the light emitting portion 40 of the optical waveguide 4 may be damaged by repeated contact with the skin 92, the hair 91, etc., the amount of light emitted may be reduced, and the hair 91 may not be completely cut. There is sex.

First, the user performs the work of removing the old hair cutting member 3 that is being attached to the device main body 2 from the device main body 2. Specifically, the user rotates the fixing cap 34 of the hair cutting member 3 in the direction of loosening with a finger. As a result, the fixing cap 34 moves in the positive direction of the X-axis while the thread groove 341 fastened to the threaded portion 810 of the receptacle portion 81 is loosened, and finally comes out of the receptacle portion 81. In this state, the user holds the outside of the cover 30 by hand and pulls it in the positive direction of the X-axis to emit light that is integrally coupled to the ferrule 71 via the ferrule 71 and the holder portion H1. Module M1 can be pulled out in the positive direction of the X-axis. At that time, the convex portion H11 fitted in the groove portion 814 also moves in the positive direction of the X axis along the groove portion 814, and finally exits from the groove portion 814 (see FIG. 3).

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

As a result, the ferrule 71 is fitted into the small diameter hole 812 in the receptacle portion 81, and the holder portion H1 is fitted into the large diameter hole 813 in the receptacle portion 81. At this point, the rotation of the hair cutting member 3 with respect to the apparatus main body 2 along the circumferential direction is restricted. The light receiving surface 40A faces the optical system 22 (fourth lens 224) in close proximity to each other, and the optical axis C1 of the core portion 41 meets the optical axis CX1 of the optical system 22 (even if the user is not aware of it). It will match (automatically). In short, the positioning of the light emitting module M1 is facilitated, and the assembling property is improved.

Finally, by attaching the fixing cap 34 to the receptacle portion 81, the hair cutting member 3 is less likely to come off from the device main body 2. Of the hair cutting members 3, the fixing cap 34 may be reused or replaced with a new one.

As described above, the hair cutting member 3 is detachably attached to the receptacle portion 81 of the apparatus main body 2, and as a result, the assembling property is improved and the optical adjustment is easy.

In the above example, the description has been made assuming the user's replacement work, but this improvement in assembling property does not affect only the user's replacement work. For example, the assembly of the worker at the time of manufacturing the hair cutting device 1 It can also work.

By the way, the control circuit 6 of the hair cutting device 1 may determine that the hair cutting device 1 is in a specific state based on the detection result of the detection unit D1. The "specific state" referred to here is, for example, a state in which an abnormality, stain, aged deterioration, or the like has occurred, and may include signs thereof. The hair cutting device 1 notifies the user that it is in a specific state from the notification unit 27. When the user learns through the notification unit 27 that, for example, the optical waveguide 4 of the hair cutting member 3 has deteriorated over time, the hair cutting member 3 is replaced.

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

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

The control circuit 6 has an input unit 61, a mode switching unit 62, an output adjusting unit 63, a driving unit 64, and a determination unit 65.

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

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

The mode switching unit 62 switches the operation mode of the light source 21. In the present embodiment, the light source 21 has two types of operation modes, a first mode and a second mode, which will be described later. The mode switching unit 62 switches between the first mode and the second mode according to, for example, an electric signal from the input unit 61.

The drive unit 64 drives the light source 21 by supplying electric power to the light source 21. That is, the drive unit 64 causes the light source 21 to emit light (lights up) by supplying the drive current I1 to the light source 21 made of a semiconductor laser. Here, when the light source 21 is driven, the drive unit 64 supplies the light source 21 with a rectangular wave-shaped drive current I1 that alternately repeats the light emission period T1 and the extinguishing period T2, as shown in FIG. , Light source 21 is made to emit light. That is, the drive unit 64 supplies a drive current I1 composed of a pulse current to the light source 21, and in response to this, the light source 21 intermittently generates (blinks) light.

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

By the way, in the present embodiment, the light source 21 has two types of operation modes, a first mode and a second mode.

The first mode is a mode in which the action on the skin 92 is prioritized, and the time length of the light emitting period T1 is 1 / 10,000 second or less. That is, if the operation mode of the light source 21 is the first mode, the time length of the light emission period T1 of the light source 21 is 1 / 10,000 second or less. In other words, in the first mode, the drive unit 64 drives the light source 21 with a drive current I1 having a frequency of 5 kHz or more. As a result, the maximum time for the light source 21 to continuously generate light is 1/10000 second (1 / 10,000s) or less. In the present embodiment, as an example, when the operation mode of the light source 21 is the first mode, the time length of the light emission period T1 of the light source 21 is 1/15000 second.

The second mode is a mode in which the cutting of the hair 91 is prioritized, and the time length of the light emitting period T1 is 1/100 second or more. That is, when the operation mode of the light source 21 is the second mode, the time length of the light emission period T1 of the light source 21 is 1/100 second or more. In other words, in the second mode, the drive unit 64 drives the light source 21 with a drive current I1 having a frequency of 50 Hz or less. As a result, the minimum time for the light source 21 to continuously generate light is 1/100 second (1 / 100s) or more. In the present embodiment, as an example, when the operation mode of the light source 21 is the second mode, the time length of the light emission period T1 of the light source 21 is 1/80 second.

Here, the control circuit 6 has a mode switching unit 62 for switching between the first mode and the second mode. That is, in the present embodiment, the operation mode of the light source 21 is the first mode in which the time length of the light emitting period T1 is 1 / 10,000 second or less, and the time length of the light emitting period T1 is 1/100 second or more. It is possible to switch between a certain second mode.

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

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

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

The output adjusting unit 63 may adjust the output of the light source 21 under the control of the determination unit 65, which will be described later.

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

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

In the present embodiment, the determination unit 65 determines the contact state based on the electric signal received from the sensor unit S1 (first sensor unit S11, second sensor unit S12). Then, the determination unit 65 controls the drive unit 64 (or the output adjustment unit 63) based on the determination result to start driving the light source 21 to execute the optical output or stop the drive of the light source 21 (the drive of the light source 21 is stopped). The light output may decrease).

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

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

The determination unit 65 switches the skin 92 from the non-contact state to the contact state when both the voltage level of the first sensor unit S11 and the voltage level of the second sensor unit S12 (whichever may be one) exceed the threshold value. Judged as

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

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

Here, the hair cutting device 1 of the present embodiment detects the target light OB1 in the detection area D2 by using the detection unit D1 (detection step). Specifically, the determination unit 65 performs diagnostic processing regarding the optical output of the hair cutting device 1 based on the detection signal received from the detection unit D1. That is, the determination unit 65 determines whether or not the state regarding the light output of the hair cutting device 1 is in the specific state based on the detection result regarding the target light OB1 by the detection unit D1.

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

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

By the way, the mode of change in the signal level (voltage) of the detection signal with the passage of time may differ depending on the type of specific state. For example, if the type of the specific state is an "abnormality" such as a failure or breakage, the "mode of change" is likely to show a sharp decrease as shown in FIG. 10B. On the other hand, if the type of the specific state is "dirt" such as the optical waveguide 4, the "mode of change" is gradual as compared with "abnormality", but is constant over a period of several weeks or months, for example. Is likely to show a decrease in. Further, if the type of the specific state is aged deterioration, there is a high possibility that the optical waveguide 4 or the like (assumed) shows a more gradual decrease than "dirt" from the start of use to the life of the optical waveguide 4. That is, the rate of decrease with the passage of time may increase in the order of "aging deterioration", "dirt", and "abnormality".

Therefore, the determination unit 65 of the present embodiment is further configured to specify the type of the specific state based on the mode of change in the light intensity of the target light OB1. Further, the control circuit 6 further includes a limiting unit 66 (see FIG. 9) that limits the light output from the light emitting module M1 when the determination unit 65 specifies that at least the type of the specific state is a predetermined type. I have. Here, as an example, the "specific type" is assumed to be the above-mentioned "abnormality".

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

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

As an example, the determination unit 65 determines that the current voltage is "abnormal" if it is 0 (zero) or more and less than the reference value Rf1. Further, if the current voltage and the actual data continue for a predetermined period and have a reference value Rf1 or more and a reference value Rf2 or less, the determination unit 65 determines that the data is "dirty". Further, the determination unit 65 determines that the current voltage and the actual data are "aged deterioration" if the current voltage and the actual data gradually decrease toward the reference value Rf2 over a long period of time based on the actual data. The method for specifying the type of the specific state is merely an example, and is not particularly limited. The control circuit 6 stores in advance a change pattern corresponding to each of a plurality of types of "change modes" of the specific state in the memory, finds a change pattern in the memory similar to the actual data, and types the specific state. May be specified.

When the determination unit 65 determines that the hair cutting device 1 is in a specific state, the control circuit 6 notifies the user from the notification unit 27, for example, regardless of the type of the specific state. However, it is preferable that the control circuit 6 changes the emission color or the lighting state so that the type of the specified specific state can be distinguished by the user. As an example, the notification unit 27 is continuously lit in red if it is "abnormal", blinks in orange if it is "dirty", and intermittently lit in orange if it is "aged". The notification unit 27 is normally lit continuously in green. The notification unit 27 is not limited to notifying the specific state by the indicator light. The notification unit 27 may notify by voice output if it is provided with a speaker, or may be notified by image display if it is provided with a liquid crystal display, in place of or in addition to the indicator light.

However, when the determination unit 65 of the present embodiment determines that the hair cutting device 1 is in an "abnormal" (predetermined type) state, not only the user notification from the notification unit 27 described above but also the restriction unit 66 emits light. Limit output. For example, when an "abnormality" suddenly occurs while the light source 21 is being driven, the limiting unit 66 automatically stops the driving of the light source 21. That is, the limiting unit 66 automatically stops the power supply to the light source 21 to the driving unit 64.

Once an "abnormality" occurs, the limiting unit 66 does not start driving the light source 21 unless the "abnormality" is resolved. That is, when an "abnormality" occurs, the hair cutting device 1 prevents the user from further permitting the use of the hair cutting device 1.

The "limitation of light output" is not limited to the stop of driving the light source 21, and the limiting unit 66 determines the output magnitude (power density) of the light source 21 to, for example, the output adjusting unit 63 when an "abnormality" occurs. ) May be lowered. Further, the "limitation of light output" may be applied not only to "abnormality" but also to "dirt" or "aging deterioration".

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

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

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

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

[Operation example 2]
Next, operation example 2 of the hair cutting device 1 provided with the above-mentioned control circuit 6 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an operation example related to the diagnostic process of the hair cutting device 1. Here, as an example, a case where an "abnormality" occurs while the user is using the hair cutting device 1 will be described.

The hair cutting device 1 first accepts an operation of turning on the main power through the operation unit 26 (ST11). The hair cutting device 1 enters the standby state, executes a determination process, and monitors the detection signal from the sensor unit S1 (ST12).

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

When the driving of the light source 21 is started, the hair cutting device 1 executes a diagnostic process and monitors the detection signal from the detection unit D1 (ST15: detection step). Based on the detection signal from the sensor unit S1, the hair cutting device 1 stops driving the light source 21 (ST17) when the skin 92 is in a non-contact state (ST16: Yes), and ends the diagnostic process.

When the hair cutting device 1 determines that an "abnormality" has occurred based on the detection signal from the detection unit D1 when the skin 92 is in contact (ST16: No) (ST18: Yes), the hair cutting device 1 drives the light source 21. Emergency stop (ST19). Further, the hair cutting device 1 executes a user notification regarding the occurrence of an "abnormality" through the notification unit 27 (ST20), and ends the diagnostic process. After that, the hair cutting device 1 prohibits the start of driving the light source 21 until the "abnormality" is resolved. If no "abnormality" has occurred (ST18: No), the diagnostic process is continued until the skin 92 is in a non-contact state.

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

(3) Action Next, the action that can be expected in the hair cutting device 1 according to the present embodiment will be described.

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

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

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

Further, in the present embodiment, since the detection unit D1 and the detection area D2 are provided as described in the column of "(2.3.8) Detection unit and detection area", for example, the detection result of the detection unit D1 is used. can do. For example, as described in the column of "(2.6) Control circuit", it is possible to determine the occurrence of abnormality, aging deterioration, dirt, etc., automatically stop the light source 21, and notify the user. As a result, there is an advantage that the hair cutting device 1 having improved reliability regarding light output can be provided.

Further, since the detection region D2 is arranged in the space on one end side of the cover 30 which is the transmission destination of the light transmission direction A2 transmitted in the optical waveguide 4, the detection region D2 is the light that cuts the hair 91. The possibility of affecting the release can be reduced.

Further, since the target light OB1 is a part of the light transmitted through the optical waveguide 4 and heading toward the detection region D2, the target light is compared with the case where the light heading toward the detection region D2 is directly detected, for example. It is possible to reduce the possibility that the detection accuracy is lowered due to the saturation of the brightness of the OB1. That is, for the detection unit D1, the light intensity derived from the end surface 40B of the optical waveguide 4 may be too strong, and the control circuit 6 may be in a specific state depending on the type of a specific state such as dirt or deterioration over time. The accompanying change in light intensity may be overlooked. At this point, since the target light OB1 is a part of the light transmitted through the optical waveguide 4 and heading toward the detection region D2, the luminance saturation can be suppressed.

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

(4) Modifications This embodiment is only one of the various embodiments of the present disclosure. The present embodiment can be variously modified according to the design and the like as long as the object of the present disclosure can be achieved. Further, the drawings referred to in the present disclosure are all schematic views, and the ratio of the size and the thickness of each component in the drawing does not necessarily reflect the actual dimensional ratio. ..

Further, the same function as the hair cutting device 1 (particularly the control circuit 6) according to the above embodiment may be embodied by a hair cutting method, a computer program, a non-temporary recording medium on which a computer program is recorded, or the like. Hereinafter, variations of the above embodiment are listed. The modifications described below can be applied in combination as appropriate.

The hair cutting device 1 (particularly the control circuit 6) in the present disclosure includes a computer system. The computer system mainly consists of a processor and a memory as hardware. The function as the control circuit 6 in the present disclosure is realized by the processor executing the program recorded in the memory of the computer system. The program may be pre-recorded in the memory of the computer system, may be provided through a telecommunications line, and may be recorded on a non-temporary recording medium such as a memory card, optical disk, hard disk drive, etc. that can be read by the computer system. May be provided. The processor of a computer system is composed of one or more electronic circuits including a semiconductor integrated circuit (IC) or a large scale integrated circuit (LSI). The integrated circuit such as IC or LSI referred to here has a different name depending on the degree of integration, and includes an integrated circuit called a system LSI, VLSI (Very Large Scale Integration), or ULSI (Ultra Large Scale Integration).

Further, an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) programmed after the LSI is manufactured, or a logic device capable of reconfiguring the junction relationship inside the LSI or reconfiguring the circuit partition inside the LSI should also be adopted as a processor. Can be done. A plurality of electronic circuits may be integrated on one chip, or may be distributed on a plurality of chips. A plurality of chips may be integrated in one device, or may be distributed in a plurality of devices. The computer system referred to here includes a microcontroller having one or more processors and one or more memories. Therefore, the microprocessor is also composed of one or a plurality of electronic circuits including a semiconductor integrated circuit or a large-scale integrated circuit.

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

(4.1) First Modification Example The hair cutting device 1A according to the first modification of the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. However, with respect to the following first modification, the same reference numerals may be given to the components substantially common to the hair cutting device 1, and the description thereof may be omitted as appropriate.

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

The hair cutting device 1A has one or a plurality of mirrors that reflect light emitted from the optical system 22 in the case 20 of the device main body 2 so as to be guided to the light receiving surface 40A in the ferrule 71, and the hair cutting member 3 or the device. It is preferable to provide it inside the main body 2.

The hair cutting device 1A configured as described above also includes a detection unit D1, a detection region D2, and a diffusion unit Y1. Therefore, it is possible to provide the hair cutting device 1A having improved reliability regarding light output.

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

(4.2) Second Modified Example The hair cutting devices 1B to 1E according to the second modified example of the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 14A to 14D. However, with respect to the following second modification, the same reference numerals may be given to the components substantially common to the hair cutting device 1, and the description thereof may be omitted as appropriate. 14A to 14D are all enlarged views of the main part of the detection area D2.

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

Specifically, the hair cutting device 1B includes a detection unit D1 and a detection area D2, similarly to the hair cutting device 1. However, the hair cutting device 1B is provided with a beam dump D3 instead of the diffusion portion Y1 of the hair cutting device 1, and the vicinity of the tip portion of the optical waveguide 4 is curved in the detection region D2. It differs from the hair cutting device 1 in that it is present.

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

The beam dump D3 is configured to absorb the light derived from the end surface 40B of the optical waveguide 4 ahead of the curved portion 45. The tip of the optical waveguide 4 is connected to the beam dump D3. The beam dump D3 is arranged in the detection area D2. The beam dump D3 is arranged in the detection region D2, for example, on the positive side of the Z axis with respect to the central axis of the optical waveguide 4.

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

Even in the configuration of the hair cutting device 1B described above, since the detection unit D1 and the detection area D2 are provided, for example, the detection result of the detection unit D1 can be used. Therefore, it is possible to provide the hair cutting device 1B having improved reliability regarding light output. In particular, since the hair cutting device 1B uses leaked light, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the detection accuracy is lowered due to the luminance saturation of the target light OB1 with a relatively simple configuration.

As another example of the hair cutting device 1B, instead of the curved portion 45, a member having a translucency having a refractive index larger than that of the core portion 41 and the clad portion 42 is optical-guided in the detection region D2. Leakage light may be generated by arranging the waveguide 4 so as to be in contact with the outer peripheral surface of the waveguide 4.

As shown in FIG. 14B, the hair cutting device 1C is different from the hair cutting device 1 in that the target light OB1 contains the diffused light diffused by the diffusing portion Y2.

Specifically, the hair cutting device 1C includes a detection unit D1 and a detection area D2, similarly to the hair cutting device 1. However, the hair cutting device 1C transmits the light in the optical waveguide 4 instead of the diffuser Y1 that "diffuses and reflects" the light transmitted through the optical waveguide 4 and entering the detection region D2 of the hair cutting device 1. It differs from the hair cutting device 1 in that it includes a diffusion unit Y2 that "diffuses and transmits" the light that has entered the detection region D2.

The diffusion unit Y2 is composed of a member having a diffusion surface Y20 that emits light (incident light) in various directions. The diffusion unit Y2 is arranged in the detection area D2. In the example of FIG. 14B, the diffusion portion Y2 is composed of plate-shaped members arranged so that the thickness direction thereof is parallel to the X axis, but the shape of the diffusion portion Y2 is not particularly limited. The diffusion surface Y20 can be formed by, for example, providing a fine uneven structure on the surface of the base material of the diffusion portion Y2. The method of forming the diffusion surface Y20 is not particularly limited. The diffuser Y2 may be made of frosted glass, for example.

The diffusion surface Y20 is arranged so as to face the positive side of the X axis. The surface of the diffusion portion Y2 on the opposite side of the diffusion surface Y20 (incident surface Y21) faces the end surface 40B at the tip of the optical waveguide 4. The direction of the optical axis C1 of the optical waveguide 4 is orthogonal to the incident surface Y21. The direct light transmitted through the optical wave guide 4 and derived from the terminal surface 40B is incident on the incident surface Y21 of the diffusing portion Y2, and the light transmitted through the diffusing portion Y2 is further diffused from the diffusing surface Y20. ..

The detection unit D1 is arranged in the detection area D2 at a position where the target light OB1 can be received. That is, the detection unit D1 is arranged so as to receive the light diffused from the diffusion surface Y20. The detection unit D1 is arranged in the detection region D2 so as to face the diffusion surface Y20 so that its thickness direction is parallel to the X axis, for example. That is, the detection unit D1 is arranged behind the diffusion unit Y2 when viewed from the optical waveguide 4.

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

As shown in FIG. 14C, the hair cutting device 1D differs from the hair cutting device 1 in that it includes a reflecting portion Y3 that reflects specularly.

Specifically, the hair cutting device 1D includes a detection unit D1 and a detection area D2, similarly to the hair cutting device 1. However, the hair cutting device 1D is different from the hair cutting device 1 in that the hair cutting device 1 is provided with the reflecting portion Y3 instead of the diffusing portion Y1 of the hair cutting device 1.

The reflecting unit Y3 is composed of a mirror that mirror-reflects light (incident light). The reflection unit Y3 is arranged in the detection area D2. The reflection unit Y3 reflects the light transmitted through the optical waveguide 4 and entering the detection region D2. The target light OB1 includes the reflected light reflected by the reflecting unit Y3.

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

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

Even in the configuration of the hair cutting device 1D described above, since the detection unit D1 and the detection area D2 are provided, the detection result of the detection unit D1 can be used, for example. Therefore, it is possible to provide a hair cutting device 1D having improved reliability regarding light output. Further, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the detection accuracy is lowered due to the luminance saturation of the target light OB1.

In the hair cutting device 1D, it is preferable that the detection unit D1 is arranged so that the light receiving surface D10 is displaced from the direction of the optical axis C2 of the reflected light reflected by the reflecting surface Y30. In particular, it is preferable that the light receiving surface D10 does not intersect the direction of the optical axis C2 of the reflected light. In this case, while the reflected light reflected by the reflecting surface Y30 is used, the reflected light having a high light intensity along the optical axis C2 is less likely to be included in the target light OB1, and the detection accuracy is lowered due to the luminance saturation of the target light OB1. The possibility of doing so can be further reduced.

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

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

Specifically, the hair cutting device 1E includes a detection unit D1 and a detection area D2, similarly to the hair cutting device 1. However, the hair cutting device 1E is different from the hair cutting device 1 in that the conversion unit Y4 is provided instead of the diffusion unit Y1 of the hair cutting device 1.

The conversion unit Y4 is arranged in the detection area D2. The conversion unit Y4 includes phosphor particles Y40 that generate light by inducing excitation by light (excitation light) transmitted through the optical waveguide 4 and entering the detection region D2. The target light OB1 includes the light generated by the conversion unit Y4.

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

When the direct light transmitted through the optical waveguide 4 and derived from the end surface 40B is incident on the incident surface Y41 of the conversion unit Y4, the phosphor particles Y40 absorb the excitation light and differ from the wavelength of the excitation light. Generates light of wavelength (eg, long wavelength). Then, the light is emitted from the emission surface Y42 of the conversion unit Y4. Further, among the incident light, the light that is not absorbed by the phosphor particles Y40 is emitted as it is from the emission surface Y42 of the conversion unit Y4 without being wavelength-converted.

The detection unit D1 is arranged in the detection area D2 at a position where the target light OB1 can be received. That is, the detection unit D1 is arranged so as to receive the light emitted from the emission surface Y42 of the conversion unit Y4. The detection unit D1 is arranged in the detection area D2 so that, for example, the light receiving surface D10 faces the exit surface Y42. Here, the light receiving surface D10 is orthogonal to the direction of the optical axis C1 of the optical waveguide 4.

Even in the configuration of the hair cutting device 1E described above, since the detection unit D1 and the detection area D2 are provided, the detection result of the detection unit D1 can be used, for example. Therefore, it is possible to provide the hair cutting device 1E having improved reliability regarding light output. In particular, since the hair cutting device 1E uses the light generated by the conversion unit Y4, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the detection accuracy is lowered due to the luminance saturation of the target light OB1 with a relatively simple configuration.

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

The detection unit D1 of the hair cutting device 1 described above receives the target light OB1 of the secondary light (diffused light), but for example, the primary light, that is, the light traveling in the optical waveguide 4 and being derived directly. It may receive light. However, by using the secondary light, as described above, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the detection accuracy is lowered due to the luminance saturation of the target light OB1. In addition, the life of the detection unit D1 can be extended.

When the control circuit 6 detects that the optical output is reduced due to the "aging deterioration" of the optical waveguide 4 as compared with the optical output at the time of manufacture and shipment based on the detection signal from the detection unit D1, the reduced "shift" is detected. May be corrected to offset. That is, when the control circuit 6 detects the occurrence of "aging deterioration" of the optical waveguide 4, the control circuit 6 may make a correction to increase the light intensity of the light source 21.

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

Further, the hair cutting device 1 may be configured to automatically switch the main power on / off based on the detection signal from the sensor unit S1. In this case, for example, the sensor unit S1 may include a switch for opening and closing the contacts. In this case, the hair cutting device 1 closes the contact point of the sensor unit S1 by the pressure received from the skin 92, so that the main power supply is switched on and the driving of the light source 21 is automatically started. In this case, the user can save the trouble of operating the operation unit 26, and the usability is further improved.

The sensor unit S1 may be configured as an energization type sensor. For example, the pair of electrodes of the sensor unit S1 (the electrode S2 of the first sensor unit S11 and the electrode S2 of the second sensor unit S12) may form an anode and a cathode, respectively. The control circuit 6 determines the contact state of the skin 92 by applying a voltage between these electrodes and detecting the current flowing between the electrodes through the human body when the skin 92 comes into contact with these electrodes. May be good.

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

Further, the sensor unit S1 may be configured as a pressure-sensitive sensor whose resistance value changes by receiving pressure from the skin 92.

When two or more sensor units S1 are provided, the two or more sensor units S1 may form sensors having different detection methods from each other.

For example, the device main body 2 (case 20) accommodating the light source 21 and the like is assumed to correspond to a grip, but a grip portion is provided separately from the case 20, and the case 20 and the grip portion are connected to each other. May be done. Then, the contents in the case 20 may be housed in the case 20 and the grip portion in a distributed manner.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Further, the light source 21 is not limited to light having a single wavelength, and may generate light having a plurality of wavelengths, for example. In this case, the light source 21 may generate light having a plurality of wavelengths at the same time, or may generate light while sequentially switching. In this configuration, the light emitted from the light emitting unit 40 to the hair 91 (first emitted light Op1) can target a plurality of chromophores corresponding to a plurality of wavelengths, so that the bonds of a plurality of types of molecules are broken. It is possible to improve the cutting efficiency of the hair 91.

Further, the hair cutting member 3 may be provided with a plurality of optical waveguides 4. In this case, the hair cutting member 3 can cut the hair 91 by emitting light to the hair 91 at each light emitting unit 40 of the plurality of optical waveguides 4. Here, the plurality of optical waveguides 4 may pass light having the same wavelength or may pass light having a plurality of wavelengths different from each other. In this case, in the ferrule 71, a plurality of optical waveguides 4 may be arranged so as to be closer to the center. Alternatively, a plurality of ferrules 71 may be provided so as to have a one-to-one correspondence with the optical waveguide 4.

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

The battery 23 is not limited to the secondary battery, but may be a primary battery. Further, the hair cutting device 1 is not limited to the battery-powered type, and may operate by receiving power supply from an external power source such as a system power source (commercial power source), for example. In this case, the battery 23 as the hair cutting device 1 can be omitted.

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

Further, a mirror is arranged on the end surface 40B on the opposite side of the light receiving surface 40A in the optical waveguide 4, and the light reaching the tip of the optical waveguide 4 is reflected in the optical waveguide 4 by the mirror. May be good.

Further, the function of acting on the skin 92 is only a secondary function of the hair cutting device 1, and can be omitted as appropriate. That is, the hair cutting device 1 may have a function of cutting the hair 91, which is a basic function.

Also, in the comparison between two values, the place where "greater than or equal to" includes both the case where the two values are equal and the case where one of the two values exceeds the other. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and "greater than or equal to" here may be synonymous with "greater than" including only the case where one of the two values exceeds the other. That is, whether or not the two values are equal can be arbitrarily changed depending on the setting of the threshold value and the like, so there is no technical difference between "greater than or equal to" and "greater than". Similarly, "less than" may be synonymous with "less than or equal to".

The hair cutting device 1 may be provided with a detachably attached attachment to the cover 30 of the hair cutting member 3. The attachment may increase the height of the light emitting portion 40 from the surface 921 of the skin 92.

(5) Summary As described above, the hair cutting apparatus (1,1A to 1E) according to the first aspect includes a light emitting module (M1), a cover (30), a detection area (D2), and detection. A unit (D1) is provided. The light emitting module (M1) has an optical waveguide (4) including a core portion (41), and cuts the hair (91) by emitting light to the hair (91) protruding from the skin (92). .. The cover (30) is configured to cover the light emitting module (M1). The detection region (D2) is arranged in the cover (30), and the target light (OB1) caused by the light transmitted in the optical waveguide (4) passes through. The detection unit (D1) detects the target light (OB1) in the detection area (D2). According to the first aspect, the hair cutting device (1,1A to 1E) includes a detection unit (D1) for detecting the target light (OB1) in the detection region (D2), whereby the detection unit (D1) is provided. The detection result of D1) can be used. Therefore, it is possible to provide a hair cutting device (1,1A to 1E) having improved reliability regarding light output.

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

Regarding the hair cutting apparatus (1,1A to 1E) according to the third aspect, in the first or second aspect, the target light (OB1) is transmitted in the optical waveguide (4) to the detection region (D2). It is a part of the light that goes. According to the third aspect, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the detection accuracy is lowered due to the luminance saturation of the target light (OB1), as compared with the case where the light directed to the detection region (D2) is directly detected, for example.

Regarding the hair cutting apparatus (1,1A to 1E) according to the fourth aspect, in the third aspect, the target light (OB1) includes the leaked light leaked from the optical waveguide (4) without total internal reflection. According to the fourth aspect, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the detection accuracy is lowered due to the luminance saturation of the target light (OB1) with a relatively simple configuration.

The hair cutting device (1,1A to 1E) according to the fifth aspect further includes a diffusion unit (Y1, Y2) in the third or fourth aspect. The diffusing portions (Y1 and Y2) are arranged in the detection region (D2), and diffusely reflect or diffusely transmit the light transmitted through the optical waveguide (4) and entering the detection region (D2). The target light (OB1) includes diffused light diffused by the diffusing portions (Y1, Y2). According to the fifth aspect, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the detection accuracy is lowered due to the luminance saturation of the target light (OB1) with a relatively simple configuration.

The hair cutting device (1,1A to 1E) according to the sixth aspect further includes a conversion unit (Y4) in any one of the first to fifth aspects. The conversion unit (Y4) is preferably provided in any one of the first to fourth aspects. The conversion unit (Y4) is arranged in the detection region (D2), and the fluorescence transmitted through the optical waveguide (4) and enters the detection region (D2) causes excitation to generate light. Includes body particles (Y40). The target light (OB1) includes the light generated by the conversion unit (Y4). According to the sixth aspect, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the detection accuracy is lowered due to the luminance saturation of the target light (OB1) with a relatively simple configuration.

The hair cutting device (1,1A to 1E) according to the seventh aspect is arranged in the detection region (D2) in any one of the first to sixth aspects and transmits in the optical waveguide (4). Further, a reflecting unit (Y3) that reflects the light that has entered the detection region (D2) is further provided. The reflective portion (Y3) is preferably provided in any one of the first to fourth aspects. The target light (OB1) includes the reflected light reflected by the reflecting unit (Y3). According to the seventh aspect, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the detection accuracy is lowered due to the luminance saturation of the target light (OB1) with a relatively simple configuration.

The hair cutting device (1,1A to 1E) according to the eighth aspect further includes a determination unit (65) in any one of the first to seventh aspects. The determination unit (65) determines whether or not the state regarding the light output of the hair cutting device (1,1A to 1E) is in a specific state based on the detection result regarding the target light (OB1) by the detection unit (D1). .. According to the eighth aspect, since the determination of the specific state can be performed by using the detection result of the detection unit (D1), the reliability regarding the optical output is further improved.

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

The hair cutting apparatus (1,1A to 1E) according to the tenth aspect is a light emitting module (in the ninth aspect, when it is specified in the determination unit that at least the type of the specific state is a predetermined type. A limiting unit (66) that limits the light output from M1) is further provided. According to the tenth aspect, the light output can be limited according to a predetermined type, and the reliability of the light output is further improved.

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

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

The hair cutting device can be applied to cutting various hairs of humans or non-human animals in various fields such as home use, beauty, medical care, and long-term care.

1,1A-1E Hair cutting device 30 Cover 4 Optical wave guide 41 Core part 65 Judgment part 66 Limit part 91 Hair 92 Skin A2 Transmission direction D1 Detection part D2 Detection area M1 Light emission module OB1 Target light Y1, Y2 Diffuse part Y3 Reflection part Y4 converter Y40 phosphor particles

Claims

A light emitting module that has an optical waveguide including a core portion and emits light to the hair protruding from the skin to cut the hair.
A cover configured to cover the light emitting module,
A detection area that is arranged in the cover and through which the target light caused by the light transmitted in the optical waveguide passes.
A detection unit that detects the target light in the detection area,
To prepare
Hair cutting device.
The detection region is arranged in the space on one end side of the cover, which is the transmission destination of the light transmitted in the optical waveguide.
The hair cutting device according to claim 1.
The target light is a part of the light transmitted through the optical waveguide and directed to the detection region.
The hair cutting device according to claim 1 or 2.
The target light includes leaked light leaked from the optical waveguide without total internal reflection.
The hair cutting device according to claim 3.
Further provided with a diffuser portion which is arranged in the detection region and diffuses and reflects or diffuses the light transmitted through the optical waveguide and entering the detection region.
The target light includes diffused light diffused in the diffused portion.
The hair cutting device according to claim 3 or 4.
Further provided with a conversion unit including phosphor particles arranged in the detection region, transmitted through the optical waveguide, and caused excitation by light entering the detection region to generate light.
The target light includes light generated in the conversion unit.
The hair cutting device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.
Further provided with a reflecting unit which is arranged in the detection region and transmits light in the optical waveguide and reflects light that has entered the detection region.
The target light includes the reflected light reflected by the reflecting portion.
The hair cutting device according to any one of claims 1 to 6.
A determination unit for determining whether or not the state regarding the light output of the hair cutting device is in a specific state based on the detection result of the target light by the detection unit is further provided.
The hair cutting device according to any one of claims 1 to 7.
Further, the determination unit specifies the type of the specific state based on the mode of change in the light intensity of the target light.
The hair cutting device according to claim 8.
When the determination unit specifies that at least the type of the specific state is a predetermined type, the determination unit further includes a restriction unit that limits the light output from the light emission module.
The hair cutting device according to claim 9.