FR3116205A1 - PORTABLE STYLING DEVICE WITH LIGHT EMITTING DIODES EMBEDDED IN HAIR OR TEETH - Google Patents

Abstract

Portable hair styling device with light emitting diodes embedded in hair or teeth A hair and scalp treatment device (100) includes a dispenser connected to a cartridge (102), wherein the cartridge includes a formulation; a plurality of tips (602, 702) on the device, wherein the tips have at least one opening for dispensing the formulation and at least one LED that emits light in the visible color spectrum, wherein the at least one LED is located at the end of the tips; and a controller configured to individually activate and deactivate the LEDs of the plurality of tips. Abstract: Figure 1

Description

PORTABLE STYLING DEVICE WITH LIGHT EMITTING DIODES EMBEDDED IN HAIR OR TEETH

Summary

In one embodiment, a brush or comb hair and scalp treatment device has controllable LEDs that emit light in the visible color spectrum, or a UV (ultraviolet) or IR (infrared) or both UV and IR embedded in bristle or tooth tips for targeted treatments and display of pleasing information or visuals.

In one embodiment, the device can activate LEDs of different wavelengths to be used for various hair and scalp treatment applications and the curing and treatment of various hair and skin formulas or serums hairy.

In one embodiment, the scalp and hair treatment device enhances the effectiveness of these treatments by placing the active light components in the region(s) of the device that makes contact with the regions of skin, scalp , or targeted hair roots, or come as close as possible.

In one embodiment, the ability to produce different colors from emitters arranged in rows and columns with the tips is used to display detailed device information, such as charging status, operating mode, cartridge filling, or pleasing visuals by creating an RGB pixel-like display.

In one embodiment, electrically conductive wiring is routed through hollow bristle tips. Alternatively, the bristle tips consist of conductive spring-like coils. These conductive paths lead to visible color spectrum LEDs and UV and IR LEDs (light emitting diodes) housed in the tips. The components are encapsulated and sealed with a clear cap. The LEDs are driven via signals along these conductive paths. These signals are driven by a controller circuit housed in the main body of the device.

In one embodiment, the device folds back on itself. When the device is in the folded configuration, the LEDs are positioned behind a diffuser, and the visuals created by the LEDs can be made more recognizable, as the visual gaps between the LEDs and the tips can be bridged by the material of the LED. Streamer.

In one embodiment, a brush or comb hair and scalp treatment device has controllable electromagnetic energy emitters configured to emit light in the visible color spectrum, or a UV (ultraviolet) or IR LED (infrared) or both UV and IR. Non-limiting examples of electromagnetic energy emitters include arc flash lamps, continuous wave bulbs, incandescent emitters, laser diodes, light emitting diodes (eg, high output UV light emitting diodes, light emitting diodes light-emitting diodes, polymer light-emitting diodes, polymer phosphor-emitting light-emitting diodes or the like), optical energy emitters, quantum dots, or the like.

This summary is provided to present a selection of concepts in simplified form which are further described below in the Detailed Description. This summary is not intended to identify any key particulars of claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of claimed subject matter.

Description of the drawings

The foregoing aspects and many of the associated advantages of this invention will be more readily appreciated with a better understanding thereof by reference to the detailed description which follows, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 is a graphical illustration of a hair and scalp treatment device;

Figure 2 is a graphical illustration of the front of the hair and scalp treatment device of Figure 1 in the open (unfolded) configuration;

Figure 3 is a graphical illustration of the front of the hair and scalp treatment device of Figure 1 in the closed (folded) configuration;

Figure 4 is a graphical illustration of a nib using a half cylinder construction for the brush and comb embodiments;

Figure 5 is a graphical illustration of a nib using a full cylinder in a cylinder construction for the brush and comb embodiments;

Figure 6 is a graphical illustration of a tip with LEDs of half-cylinder construction for the brush and comb embodiments;

Figure 7 is a graphical illustration of a tip with full cylinder LEDs in a cylinder construction for the brush and comb embodiments;

Figure 8 is a schematic illustration showing the components of one embodiment of a hair and scalp treatment device;

Figure 9 is a schematic illustration showing the individual tip ends which are controlled to dispense formulation in circular and linear patterns;

Figure 10 is a schematic illustration showing an individual tip having at least one LED that emits light in the visible color spectrum and at least one UV or IR LED;

Figure 11 is a schematic illustration showing individual tip tips with LEDs that emit light in the visible color spectrum that are individually controlled to illuminate; And

Figure 12 is an embodiment of a tip constructed in spring-like coils with conductive wiring.

detailed description

Individuals are washing their hair with traditional water-based wet shampoo less and less frequently. A number of reasons can be offered for the reduction of this type of shampoo, such as preventing hair loss or hair damage or saving time and energy. Dry shampoos are on the rise. People are trying to extend the length of time between salon visits to save money, leading to growing interest in root-touch-up tinted dry shampoos. Dry shampoos are mostly packaged in spray bottles. However, spray bottles create concerns about inhaling the product and unintentionally spraying the face, especially the eyes. Spray bottles are imprecise in both spray direction and spray amount. Also, spray bottles are not appropriate when traveling or using in public restrooms. Dry shampoos do not clean the scalp and can actually damage it. Nevertheless, it is believed that taking care of the scalp leads to healthy hair. "Dry" methods of cleansing the scalp involve either brushing or smoothing to spread the oils through the hair. Scalp treatment and scalp formulas can be applied via pipettes, mousses or powders, and require manual parting of the hair. Powders and foams end up on the hands. Dripping too much product onto the scalp can create run-off and greasy-looking hair. Closed-loop, reusable product design is in growing demand.

Disclosed herein is a brush or comb hair and scalp treatment device with controllable electromagnetic energy emitters configured to emit light in the visible color spectrum, or a UV (ultraviolet) or IR (infrared) LED or both UV and IR. Non-limiting examples of electromagnetic energy emitters include arc flash lamps, continuous wave bulbs, incandescent emitters, laser diodes, light emitting diodes (eg, high output UV light emitting diodes, light emitting diodes light-emitting diodes, polymer light-emitting diodes, polymer phosphor-emitting light-emitting diodes or the like), optical energy emitters, quantum dots, or the like.

Referring to Figures 1-3, a hair and scalp treatment device 100 has controllable LEDs incorporated into brush tips 602, 702, 1100, 1200 for targeted treatments and display of information or pleasing visuals. Although the illustrations show a brush embodiment, the tips may be arranged in a comb embodiment, i.e., in a single row of tips.

In one embodiment, device 100 selects activation of LEDs of different wavelengths for various hair and scalp treatment applications and for curing and curing various formulas or hair serums and scalp. Device 100 can control the rate at which the LEDs are turned on and off and the brightness and intensity of each LED at its respective wavelength.

In one embodiment, the scalp and hair treatment device 100 enhances the effectiveness of these treatments by placing the active light components in the region(s) of the device 100 that makes contact with the regions of skin, scalp, or targeted hair roots or come as close as possible. In one embodiment, the active light components are placed at the ends of the tips.

In one embodiment, scalp and hair treatment device 100 uses LEDs that emit light in the visible color spectrum to create different colors at the tips. Visible color light LED emitters placed on the tips which are arranged in rows and columns are used to display detailed device information, such as charging status, operating mode, cartridge level, or pleasing visuals by creating an RGB pixel-like display. RGB (red-green-blue) LEDs are used as a representative example of LEDs that emit light in the visible color spectrum to demonstrate aspects of the disclosure, and other LEDs that emit light in the Visible color spectrum can be used instead of RGB LEDs.

In one embodiment, electrically conductive wiring is routed through hollow bristle tips. Alternatively, bristle tips may consist of conductive spring-like coils. These conductive paths lead to the visible light spectrum LEDs and the UV and IR LEDs (light emitting diodes) housed in the tips. The components are encapsulated and sealed with a clear cap. The LEDs are driven via signals along these conductive paths. These signals are driven by a controller circuit housed in the device main body 100.

In one embodiment, device 100 folds on itself. When the device 100 is in the folded configuration, the LEDs are positioned behind a diffuser, and the visuals created by the LEDs can be made more recognizable, as the visual gaps between the LEDs and the tips can be bridged by the material. of diffuser.

Referring to Figures 1-3, in one embodiment, device 100 includes a handle 104 connected to a substantially cylindrical section 138. Section 138 can be circular in cross-section or have any other shape, such as oblong, rectangular, square, or a combination of shapes. Handle 104 is connected to device 100 at an obtuse angle to the front end of device 100. Handle 104 helps balance the weight of the device for more comfortable use and easier control. Control buttons can also be located on the handle.

In one embodiment, device 100 includes a body structure that has a substantially cylindrical section 138 from the rear end, where a cartridge 102 fits, to the front end having a brush head 140. In In one embodiment, handle 104 connects to the rear side of cylindrical section 138.

Brush head 140 is the part of device 100 that has tips 602, 702, 1100, or 1200. In one embodiment, device 100 has tips 602, 702, 1100, 1200 arranged in a brush configuration, such as concentric circles. In one embodiment, the tips are also configured to allow control of the dispensing of formulations from selected individual tips and not from others. This allows certain tips to be "on" while leaving other tips "off" to create different spray patterns from the brush head 140. Similarly, for visible and UV and IR color spectrum LEDs, the LEDs at the tips are turned on and off individually, so some tips may light up with color and other tips may not.

In one embodiment, handle 104 is connected to cylindrical section 138 via a swivel connection. In this way, the cylindrical section 138 can fold inside the handle 104 when not in use.

In Figure 1, the device 100 is illustrated showing the cylindrical section 138 with a brush head 140 on the end in the unfolded position which makes the device operational. In Fig. 2, device 100 is illustrated from the front showing that the device may have a cavity 142 within handle 104. In Fig. 3, device 100 is illustrated with cylindrical section 138 and brush head 140 in the folded position with the cylindrical section 138 and the brush head 140 moving back into the handle 104 and coming to rest within the cavity 142.

In one embodiment, in the folded position, the tips 602, 702, 1100, 1200 are positioned near a diffuser material 136. The diffuser material 136 is located at the end of the handle 104, and the diffuser 136 has an outer surface so as to be visible to someone from the outside, i.e., visible by looking along the end of the handle 104. The tips are oriented in the direction of the material diffuser material 136. The diffuser material 136 is completely transparent to light or is translucent or has a degree of opacity, but is not completely opaque, to allow some of the light emitted from the tips to be visible from the outside of the diffuser material 136. In one embodiment, the diffuser material 136 produces softer light by dispersing the emitted light to fill the gaps between the tips.

In one embodiment, device 100 includes a housing that accepts a removable cartridge 102 containing a hair or scalp treatment formulation. Device 100 allows cartridges 102 to be easily interchanged to provide different formulations. Cartridge 102 can be configured to be a refillable cartridge or a disposable cartridge. In one embodiment, device 100 may be configured to have more than one cartridge 102, wherein each cartridge may be filled with a different formulation for a different treatment. Alternatively, some applications may use two or more different formulations which require applying both formulations to achieve the intended treatment.

In one embodiment, tips 602, 702, 1100, 1200 are configured to be capable of dispensing two different formulations. In one embodiment, tips 602, 702, 1100, 1200 have hollow chambers that extend the full length of the tips. Tips 602, 702, 1100, 1200 have a length of at least one diameter. However, tips 602, 702, 1100, 1200 can be constructed to be multiple diameters in length, so that the width to length ratio can vary from 1 in 1 to 1 in 20 or more. 602, 702, 1100, 1200 tips can be flexible or non-flexible. The tips 602, 702, 1100, 1200 can also be connected to the brush head 140 in a flexible manner. Isolated chambers in the tips allow one or more formulations to be delivered through each chamber without mixing. The formulations can be isolated within the respective chambers until the formulations exit the chambers. Dispensing of formulations can be accomplished by constructing each of the chambers with openings along the length or only at the ends or both along the length and at the ends of the chambers. Additionally, each of the chambers in the tips may have a valve or other means to control delivery from only one chamber or from both chambers. Controlling the dispensing of formulations from only certain tips on the brush head 140 allows the creation of multiple dispensing patterns, for example, a conical spray, a fan spray, and the like.

In one embodiment, the chambers are shown as half cylinders and full cylinders, but the chambers can take any cross-sectional shape. Additionally, in one embodiment, the tips 602, 702, 1100, 1200 and first and second hollow chambers forming them may be electrically conductive so as to be configured as positive and negative terminals to further provide micro- currents to scalp and hair. Additionally, the conductive tips 602, 702, 1100, 1200 have other uses when the first and second hollow chambers are connected to a positive and negative terminal of a power supply or the first and second hollow chambers are connected to a positive and negative sensing terminal.

In one embodiment, the tips 602, 702, 1100, 1200 need not be conductive, but the multi-barrel construction may still be useful if the application involves mixing formulations or dispensing formulations and suction on a small controlled target area on the scalp.

Referring to Figure 4, in one embodiment, tip 602 is constructed as joining a first hollow half-cylinder 604 to a second hollow half-cylinder 606 in the lengthwise direction. The first 604 and second 606 half cylinders can be made from an electrically conductive material. In one embodiment, the first 604 and second 606 half-cylinders are separated by an electrical insulator 608. Here, although the overall shape of the tip 602 is a "cylinder", according to this disclosure the tip 602 can have any shape in section, including an oblong, rectangular, square, or any other polygon.

In one embodiment, the first hollow half-cylinder 604 and the second hollow half-cylinder 606 are made from a conductive material such as metal. In one embodiment, one of the first 604 or the second 606 half-cylinder may be designated as a positive conductor terminal and the other half-cylinder will be designated as a negative conductor terminal.

In one embodiment, the first 604 and second 606 hollow chambers are fabricated from, or may be integrated with, a shape memory or piezoelectric material which may be actuated by an electric current to drive a direction of movement of the tips 602. In one embodiment, the chambers in a dual chamber construction may be made of, or incorporate, shape memory or piezoelectric materials which actuate in opposite directions the to each other, allowing more and/or less actuation around a central position depending on which chamber is activated. These materials can exist as polymers, ceramics, and alloys, for example. In one embodiment, the shape memory and piezoelectric materials can be formed as coils, and need not be hollow chambers. Coils can be effective in driving the tips vertically along the Z axis (i.e., in the axial direction of the coil). Electrical actuation of shape memory and piezoelectric materials is via an AC or DC power source having a positive and negative terminal connected to the shape memory or piezoelectric material.

Figure 4 further illustrates that spikes 602 may have openings 904 on the outer circumference. The hollow half-cylinder 604 has first openings 904 along an outside length, and the hollow half-cylinder 606 has second openings 906 along an outside length. In one embodiment, openings 904, 906 can be made by laser cutting holes (perforations) along the length of tip 602.

In one embodiment, the tips 602 may omit openings along the length of the tips, and the tips 602 are provided with openings only at the very end of the tips so as to use the tips 602 for scalp treatment. In this way, two different formulations can be delivered from the tips 602 via the half-cylinder 604 and the half-cylinder 606.

In one embodiment, the end of the spikes 602 includes a perforated flat or domed disc having small openings 610 in the first half-cylinder 604 and openings 612 in the second half-cylinder 606. In one embodiment, at instead of a disc, the half-cylinders 604 and 606 can be completely open at the end. Either construction allows a formulation to be dispensed from the ends or along the length of the tips 602 or both along the length and from the ends of the tips 602.

Referring to Figure 5, in one embodiment, tip 702 is constructed by inserting a small diameter first hollow cylinder 704 into a larger diameter second hollow cylinder 706. In one embodiment, first cylinder 704 is coaxial with second cylinder 706. First cylinder 704 may be referred to as inner cylinder and second cylinder 706 may be referred to as outer cylinder. Here, although tip 702 is "cylinder" shaped, according to this disclosure, a tip can have any cross-sectional shape, including oblong, rectangular, square, or any other polygon.

In one embodiment, first cylinder 704 and second cylinder 706 are fabricated from a conductive material such as metal. In one embodiment, the exterior of the first smaller cylinder 704 may be coated with insulation. An insulator is optional if the first 704 and second 706 cylinders cannot be electrically isolated from each other. In one embodiment, one of the first 704 or second 706 cylinder will be designated as the positive conductor terminal and the other cylinder will be designated as the negative conductor terminal.

In one embodiment, the first 704 and second 706 hollow chambers are fabricated from, or may be integrated with, a shape memory or piezoelectric material which may be actuated by an electric current to drive a direction of movement of the tips 702. In one embodiment, the chambers in a dual-chamber construction may be made of, or incorporate, shape-memory or piezoelectric materials that actuate in opposite directions. to each other, allowing more and/or less actuation around a central position depending on which chamber is activated. These materials can exist as polymers, ceramics, and alloys, for example. In one embodiment, the shape memory and piezoelectric materials can be formed as coils, and need not be hollow chambers. Coils can be effective in driving the tips vertically along the Z axis (i.e., in the axial direction of the coil). Electrical actuation of shape memory and piezoelectric materials is via an AC or DC power source having a positive and negative terminal connected to the shape memory or piezoelectric material.

In Figure 5, inner cylinder 704 has first openings 1004 that appear on the outside of outer cylinder 706; however, openings 1004 may be connected by passing through outer cylinder 706, such that the openings are closed off from outer cylinder 706, for example, by tubes that lead to inner cylinder 704. The outer cylinder 706 has second apertures 1006 along a length of the exterior, wherein apertures 1006 connect only to the interior of outer cylinder 706. In one embodiment, inner cylinder 704 and outer cylinder 706 are not coaxial with each other, but, the inner cylinder 704 can be placed against the inner wall of the outer cylinder 706, so the openings of the inner cylinder 704 may only have to pass through the wall of the outer cylinder 706, thus avoiding the need for connecting openings via tubes. An insulator may need to be interposed between the inner 704 and outer 706 cylinders for electrical isolation. In either construction, two different formulations can be delivered from tips 702 via inner 704 and outer 706 cylinder. In one embodiment, apertures 1004, 1006 can be made by laser cutting holes ( perforations) along the length of the tip 702.

In one embodiment, the end of the spikes 702 includes a perforated flat or domed disc having small openings 710 in the first inner cylinder 704 and openings 708 in the second outer cylinder 706. In one embodiment, instead of a disc, the inner and outer cylinders 704 and 706 can be fully open at the end. Either construction allows formulation to be dispensed from ends or along the length of the tips 702 or both along the length and from the ends of the tips.

In one embodiment, when the tips 602 and 702 are fabricated from conductive materials, one of the cylinders 604 or 606 and 704 or 706 of each of the tips 602 and 702 can serve as the positive terminal and the other can acts as a negative terminal for the conduction of electrical charges. This powers on devices, such as LEDs or sensors.

Figure 6 illustrates a tip 1100, similar in construction to tip 602, fabricated from a first electrically conductive hollow half-cylinder 1104 placed side by side, but electrically insulated, from a second electrically conductive hollow half-cylinder 1106 , wherein the first half-cylinder 1104 is designated as a positive or negative terminal, and the second half-cylinder 1106 is the terminal of opposite polarity to that of the first half-cylinder 1104. An electrically insulating material or coating may be added between the first 1104 and second 1106 hollow semi-cylinders for electrical insulation. A power source is connected to the first 1104 and second 1106 half-cylinders. In one embodiment, this allows one or more light-emitting diodes 1102 to be placed at the end of the tip or other locations which is energized by the two half-cylinders serving as terminals by being in contact with the terminals positive and negative.

Figure 7 illustrates a tip 1200, similar in construction to tip 702, fabricated from a first electrically conductive hollow inner cylinder 1204 positioned within or coaxially within a second electrically conductive hollow outer cylinder 1206, in wherein the first inner cylinder 1204 is a positive or negative terminal, and the second outer cylinder 1106 is the opposite polarity terminal to that of the first cylinder 1204. An electrically insulating material or coating may be added between the first 1204 and second 1206 hollow cylinders for electrical insulation. A power source is connected to the first inner cylinder 1204 and the second outer cylinder 1206. In one embodiment, this allows one or more light emitting diodes 1202 to be placed at the tip end or other locations which is energized by the two cylinders serving as terminals by being in contact with the positive and negative terminals.

In one embodiment, depending on the power of LEDs 1102 and 1202, heat dissipation may be absorbed (heat dissipated) by the conductive material of cylinders 1104, 1106, 1204, and 1206.

In one embodiment, when the LEDs 1102 and 1202 are placed at the end of the tips, the LEDs can deliver more energy to the scalp than when placed at the base of the tips or when the LED light is delivered through a long fiber optic path.

In one embodiment, LEDs 1102 and 1202 may be used for processing, formula curing, or indication of device status (i.e., operational mode or charge status).

LEDs can be any type of a single wavelength (laser LED) or a range of wavelengths. In one embodiment, phototherapy was used on the scalp to treat a skin condition. In one embodiment, phototherapy was used to stimulate hair follicle cells. The intensity of the light produced by the LEDs 1102, 1202 can be varied by controlling the current, for example.

In one embodiment, LEDs 1102, 1202 include one or more Group III-V (GaAs) based LEDs that are capable of emitting electromagnetic radiation at wavelengths in a range from visible light green near infrared. In one embodiment, the LEDs 1102, 1202 include one or more group III nitride blue LED solid-state emitters that are capable of emitting electromagnetic radiation at wavelengths in a range from ultraviolet to blue visible light.

In one embodiment, the wavelength output of LEDs 1102, 1202 includes one or more gallium-indium-nitrogen (GaInN) LEDs that have a wavelength output of approximately 360-370 nm. In other embodiments, LEDs 1102, 1202 emit electromagnetic energy in a wavelength range from about 200 nm to about 2000 nm, which includes wavelengths in the range from ultraviolet (about 350 nm) and near infrared (about 1200 nm).

Referring to Figure 10, one embodiment of an LED arrangement 200 that can be used with tips 602, 702 is illustrated. When tips 602, 702 are installed with LEDs as shown in Figure 10, tips 602, 702 may omit dispensing openings on the end. In one embodiment, tips 602, 702 include at least one visible color spectrum LED, such as an RGB (red-green-blue) LED 202 and/or at least one UV or IR LED 204 or both UV and IR. Although RGB LEDs are used as a representative example to demonstrate aspects of the disclosure, other LEDs emitting light in the visible color spectrum may be used instead of RGB LED 202. Visible color of the electromagnetic radiation spectrum is generally considered to be from 380 nm (violet) to approximately 740 nm (red).

In one embodiment, the RGB LEDs produce three nominal wavelengths which are selected to maximize the range of perceived colors by varying their intensities. An RGB LED 202 can have three LEDs, one for each color red, green, and blue, in one package. In one embodiment, the red light has a wavelength of about 620-750 nm, the green light has a wavelength of about 495-570 nm, and the blue light has a wavelength from about 450 to 495 nm. In one embodiment, RGB LED 202 has wiring for a common cathode and three anodes, one for each red, green, and blue LED. In one embodiment, RGB LED 202 has wiring for a common anode and three cathodes. Figure 12 is an illustration of one embodiment of a 1300 tip with the 200 LED construction on the tip. Tip 1300 can be used in place of tip constructions 602 and 702. In one embodiment, tip 1300 is constructed in spring-like coils with multiple (four) conductor wirings 1302, 1304, 1306, 1308 to control an RGB LED 202, for example. In one embodiment, the voltage of each of the red, green, and blue LEDs is modulated independently to activate and vary the intensity of one or more of the LEDs in RGB LED 202. Red, green, and blue LEDs are used to produce any color that is a combination of two or more colors.

In one embodiment, the RGB and UV or IR LEDs 202, 204 are potted and sealed with a light transparent cap 208, such as epoxy. LEDs 202 and 204 are driven via signals along conductive wiring paths 206 and 210, such as the cylinders themselves or dedicated wiring since the RGB LED requires separate signals for each of the red, green, and blue. The signals to turn on the LEDs 202 and 204 are driven by a light driver circuit housed in the main body of the device.

Referring to Figure 8, device 100 is shown schematically to illustrate the major systems.

In one embodiment, device 100 includes a power supply 128. Device 100 can be powered by alternating current (AC) or direct current (DC). In one embodiment, device 100 is powered by a common household AC current that uses an electrical cord (not shown) to power device 100. In one embodiment, device 100 is powered by direct current, such as a rechargeable battery that can be charged by being plugged into a household AC outlet. A device 100 powered by direct current makes it possible to use the device without staying or standing near an electrical outlet. Power supply 128 is configured to provide power to any of the systems requiring power, such as controller 148, dispenser 112, light module 152, vacuum motor 114, camera 160, LEDs 1102, 1202, and tips 602, 702, 1100, and 1200.

In one embodiment, the device 100 includes a formulation dispenser 112. In one embodiment, the formulation is stored in the replaceable or refillable cartridge 102. Cartridges 102 may be removable from device 100 either to be refilled or to be discarded and replaced with a new, full cartridge. Once empty, a 102 cartridge can be replaced with a new cartridge filled with the same or different formulation or the cartridge can be refilled with the same or different formulation. As seen in Figure 1, cartridge 102 is inserted through the rear of device 100. Cartridge 102 is connected to deliver the scalp or hair formulation to dispenser 112. In one embodiment, the Device 100 may have multiple cartridges, wherein each cartridge is filled with a different formulation, which may be dispensed to perform different treatments and to different regions of the scalp and hair.

In one embodiment, cartridge 102 has a product identification tag that may convey instructions for operating device 100 based on the specific formulation contained in cartridge 102. Device 100 may include a tag reader identification tag capable of reading the product identification tag and processing the encoded signals into instructions for operating and controlling the device according to the particular formulation. Product identification tags include, for example, barcodes, 2D barcodes, RFID, and the like. The product identification tag is encoded with machine readable signals that convey the device settings for the particular formulation. Different formulations may have different device settings. For example, product identification labels may have a liquid dispenser setting of fine, medium, or coarse droplets. Product identification labels may also feature dispenser pattern formation, such as flat fan versus cone, wide versus narrow, solid versus hollow, flow versus fog. Product identification labels may also contain instructions for operating LEDs 202, 204, 1102, 1202. Different formulations may also be used to treat different areas of the scalp and hair. Different formulations can also be used to provide different scalp and hair treatments.

Dispenser 112 can dispense one or more formulations through tips 602, 702, 1100, 1200 as a fine mist or liquid or any form in between. In one embodiment, dispenser 112 includes a compressor, pump, or ultrasonic wave generator to generate a mist from the formulation. In the case of a dispenser 112 with a pump or compressor, this dispenser 112 causes air or the formulation to flow at a high speed, which propels the formulation through fine openings. In the case of a pump or compressor dispenser, only one dispenser 112 can be placed in the device 100. Then, the discharge from a compressor or pump dispenser 112 is routed through a duct system to each of the individual tips. .

In one embodiment, the dispenser 112 is an ultrasonic wave nebulizer that generates a mist or vapor to dispense the formulation through individual tips. This has the benefit of gentle dispersion of the formulation to reduce the amount of wastage and improve coverage control. In one embodiment, the nebulizer uses an ultrasonic wave generator which is in contact with the formulation where the frequency of the ultrasonic waves is sufficient to produce the fog. An ultrasonic wave nebulizer also features a "screen" nebulizer which has a vibrating screen just touching the surface of the formulation to create the fog. Either form of ultrasonic wave nebulizer can use a piezoelectric element.

In one embodiment, both the ultrasonic wave generator and the vibrating screen nebulizer can use a piezoelectric material to generate vibrations in ultrasonic frequencies. In one embodiment, the same piezoelectric material that is used in the nebulizer can also be used to drive a haptic system. A haptic system can include a massage therapy system, but can also include any system that provides a sensory experience, such as associated heating and ultrasound therapies. Nebulizers can use the generation of frequencies of more than 1 MHz. A nebulizer capable of producing frequencies in excess of 1 MHz, can also be used to drive a haptic system to generate heat which can be used to treat skin and scalp either alone or in conjunction with formulation delivery . Some nebulizers can also use ultrasound frequencies below 1 MHz. In one embodiment, the nebulizer can be used to drive a haptic system to generate frequencies in a range designed to deliver therapeutic compounds to the skin and scalp in conjunction with formulation delivery. Therefore, there are advantages when the same piezoelectric material that is used in the nebulizer system is used in a haptic system.

In one embodiment, each of the tips may include a valve at the entrance to one or both chambers. The valve has an actuator that opens and closes the valve. Each valve on each tip can be actuated to open or close independently of other valves on other tips. By opening or closing the valve at each individual tip, the formulation can be controlled to flow out of only selected tips in a controlled pattern, such as a cone, flat fan, flow, multiple streams, in pulses, and the like. Additionally, having a valve to control dispensing from both chambers of a tip allows formulations to flow out of one or both chambers.

Figure 9 is a schematic illustration showing the ends of spikes 602, 702, 1100, 1200. "Ends" can be used to refer to the direction orthogonal to the length of the spikes, and can also mean being near the orthogonal direction , such as along the length near the orthogonal direction. In one embodiment, the tips are arranged in a circular pattern of increasing diameter of small 908, medium 910, and large 912 diameters. In one embodiment, only the tip valves connected by one of circles 908, 910, or 912 can be opened, resulting in dispensing the formulation into a small cone 908, a medium cone 910, and a large cone. 912, to cover small, medium, and large areas of the scalp or hair. A controller is instructed to open tips that are in a pattern to dispense formulation according to the pattern and closes tips that are not in the pattern. Actuation of individual tip valves is not limited to circular patterns only. In one embodiment, the tip valves can be operated in a linear pattern. A 914 line connects only the tips that would be open to distribute a formulation in a fan pattern, while the remaining tips that are not in the linear pattern would remain closed. Any combination of individual tips can be selected to dispense formulation from only some tips, but not others, to achieve distinct patterns.

In one embodiment, valve 112 is operated by depressing switch 106. In one embodiment, switch 106 is a momentary switch, with the default position being off. A momentary switch only needs one actuation, no matter how long the actuation, to dispense a measured amount of formulation. Leaving a momentary switch 106 depressed any longer does not dispense more formulation beyond the pre-measure amount. In another embodiment, switch 106 is an on/off switch that starts and stops dispenser 112 based on the opening and closing of the switch.

In one embodiment, the valves on tips 602, 702, 1100, and 1200 are only actuated if the individual tip that is selected for delivery is in contact with the skin. In one embodiment, tips 602, 702, 1100, and 1200 are fabricated from conductive materials that allow the tips to act as contact sensors. In one embodiment, one of the cylinders from each of tips 602, 702, 1100, and 1200 can act as the positive terminal, while a second cylinder from the same or a different tip acts as the positive terminal. negative. In one embodiment, an impedance may be measured between any positive terminal of a tip and any negative terminal of a tip to determine if one or more individual tips are in contact with the scalp (skin). In one embodiment, the impedance can be measured between any positive terminal and the scalp (via a conductive return path to the handle). Determination of impedance and contact is useful if the application requires contact with the scalp; for example, in a formula treatment and suction system, where the scalp is being treated and the suction risks sucking in the hair if the device is not operating directly on the scalp.

In one embodiment, the impedance measurement can also be used to calculate a level of scalp hydration at a specific point or over a more general region. In one embodiment, impedance can be measured from different spikes to determine scalp hydration level across broader regions.

In one embodiment, a contact sensor 162 may be placed at the tip ends. In one embodiment, the contact sensor 162 includes open or short circuit detectors or dielectric sensors. An open detector can refer to an open circuit detector to detect a broken (open) continuity in an electrical transmission. A short circuit detector can refer to the detection of low electrical resistance. A dielectric sensor is also referred to as a capacitance detector which can detect a change in dielectric permittivity. In one embodiment, the contact sensor 162 may be a sensor that detects contact or lack of contact of an individual tip. In one embodiment, touch sensor 162 may indicate the amount of touch. An example of a contact sensor that can detect an amount of contact is a piezoelectric sensor.

In one embodiment, device 100 includes a light module 152. Light module 152 has circuitry configured to drive LEDs 202, 204, 1102, 1102 at the tip ends. In one embodiment, light module 152 has circuitry configured to control which LEDs are turned on and off, the rate at which they are turned on and off, and the brightness and/or intensity of each LED along its length. of respective wave. Light module circuitry 152 may be included within controller 148 or separate from the controller. Specifically, with reference to RGB LEDs 202, light module 152 has circuitry configured to control the on and off and to vary the intensity of red light, green light, and blue light emitted from each of RGB LEDs 202 By activating and dimming the individual red, green and blue LEDs of RGB LED 202, many different colors can be produced individually from the tips, where certain tips can be illuminated to produce a certain color and other tips are lit differently.

Figure 11 illustrates a view of the tip ends 602, 702, in which each of the tips has an RGB LED 202 on the end. "Ends" can be used to refer to the direction orthogonal to the length of the tips, and can also mean to be near the orthogonal direction, such as along the length near the orthogonal direction. In this illustrated example, the light module 152 activates the red LEDs of the outer circle of tips, activates the red and green LEDs of the middle circle of tips, which combine to give yellow, and activates the green LEDs of the inner circle of tips. spikes. In one embodiment, the RGB LEDs 202 at the tips can be driven to give any color red, green, or blue, or some color by combining any two or more of the colors red, green, and blue. By activating and dimming each red, green and blue LED individually, many shades of color can be achieved at each tip. Each tip can be lit to give the same color or different tips can be lit to give different colors. Additionally, the ability to individually control the light emitted from each tip allows the creation of alphanumeric characters, such as numbers and letters that can spell out notices by illuminating only certain tips. Individual tips with RGB LEDs can be lit in different colors to represent different modes. Through the use of different colors or specific spikes of illumination, the RGB LEDs 202 can be used to display detailed device information, such as charging status, operating mode, cartridge level, or pleasing aspects by creating an RGB pixel-like display. In one embodiment, RGB LEDs 202 operate to provide status or provide visual displays when device 100 is in the closed position (FIG. 3). In the closed position, the light emitted by the RGB LEDs is visible through a diffuser material 136 which can disperse the light to fill gaps between tips to provide a pleasing visual effect as well as provide useful device status information. .

In one embodiment, device 100 includes a vacuum system 114 having a vacuum generating motor and a manifold 116. In one embodiment, a motor may be a variable speed motor. The vacuum motor 114 is connected to impeller vanes which cause a flow of air to enter through one of the tip cylinders 602, 702, 1100, and 1200. The motor causes a flow of air to enter through the tip openings. The airflow can carry the used formulation along with any debris and oils washed out of the hair by the formulation, which is then captured by a collector 116, and the air is expelled out of the device 100. In one mode of As an embodiment, manifold 116 has an annular vent located at the rear of device 100. The vent allows airflow to exit device 100, while used formulation and debris become trapped in manifold 116.

In one embodiment, the vacuum motor 114 is operated by the multi-position, multi-function selector switch 110. A selector switch 110 can be a slide switch or a dial switch with more than two positions, or a push button switch with more than two positions, for example. In one embodiment, a vacuum selector switch 110 has settings for off and more than one vacuum speed setting, such as high and low. In one embodiment, vacuum switch 110 is placed on the rear side of a lower portion of handle 104 to allow thumb operation, for example. The 110 vacuum switch can be isolated for uninterrupted vacuuming. Selector switch 110 remains in the selected position until moved to another position. In one embodiment, a momentary switch may replace the selector switch, wherein the default position of the momentary switch is the off position, and the momentary switch must be pressed to start the vacuum motor. In one embodiment, device 100 has both a vacuum selector switch and a momentary switch, wherein the momentary switch is used to operate the vacuum motor when depressed, and at the speed setting on the selector switch.

In one embodiment, device 100 includes a controller 148. In one embodiment, controller 148 is a digital device. Controller 148 may include one or more hardware circuits connected on a printed circuit board, or all of the circuits may exist on a single chip. Controller 148 may include at least one microprocessor core and memory. The hardware can be designed for use in small hand-held devices. The microprocessor can be implemented as multiple processors working cooperatively in parallel and in series to perform instructions according to pre-programmed logic.

Instructions for controlling dispenser 112, suction 114, light module 152 may be stored in the memory of the controller. A memory is any type of computer readable medium or computer storage device that is accessible and can be used by one or more microprocessors to execute instructions. Instructions may be stored in fast memory such as EEPROM, flash memory, random access memory, or other programmable non-volatile memory.

Controller 148 communicates with distributor 112, light module 152, suction 114 to make decisions and control output from device 100 based on inputs received from tips 602, 702, 1100, 1200 and themselves, the LEDs 202, 204, 1102, 1202, and/or the contact sensor 162.

In one embodiment, controller 148 is configured to turn on and off and vary the light intensity of individual LEDs that emit light in the visible color spectrum such that the color of light emitted from each individual tip may be different. In one embodiment, controller 148 is configured to turn on and off and vary the light intensity of individual LEDs of RGB LEDs 202 so that the color of light emitted from each individual tip may be different.

In one embodiment, controller 148 may also interpret information provided on cartridges 102 to provide instructions to dispenser 112 that are formulation specific. Controller 148 can control all of the tips 602, 702, 1100, and 1200 to open and close to allow formulation to be dispensed through individually selected tips in a pattern.

In one embodiment, controller 148 has circuitry to determine the impedance between terminals of any one or more tips to determine which tips are in contact with the skin and which tips are not in contact with the skin. with the skin. The controller 148 can then open the valves on the tips that are in contact and close the valves that are not in contact, and give permission to the dispenser to dispense formulation through the tips in contact with the skin. .

In one embodiment, the controller 148, the controller 148 has circuitry to determine the impedance between terminals of any one or more tips to determine which tips are in contact with or near the skin. narrow of it and the tips that are not in contact with the skin. The controller 148 can then only activate the LEDs of the tips that are in contact with or near the skin.

In one embodiment, controller 148 uses impedance to determine if the tips are in contact with the scalp. In one embodiment, controller 148 may disable suction 114 or not allow suction to be activated when it is determined that one or more tips are not in contact with the scalp.

In one embodiment, controller 148 may use an impedance measurement to determine the hydration of one or more regions on the scalp.

In one embodiment, controller 148 receives signals from contact sensor 162 to determine whether or not the spikes are in contact with the skin.

In one embodiment, controller 148 has circuitry to control valve opening of only those tips that will produce a selected spray pattern.

In one embodiment, controller 148 has circuitry to control the amount of formulation that is dispensed from the dispenser.

In one embodiment, controller 148 is configured to provide power to any one or more of the tips.

In one embodiment, controller 148 has circuitry to activate LEDs 1102 and 1202 based on predetermined instructions. For example, some formulations may require the application of light in a certain wavelength. Controller 148 can be used to turn LEDs 1102 and 1202 on and off to provide phototherapy treatment. Controller 148 has instructions as to what wavelength should be used and what power should be applied for phototherapy and then to power the appropriate wavelength LED.

In one embodiment, controller 148 has circuitry to control the amount of formulation that is dispensed by dispenser 112. For example, controller 148 can activate a pump or compressor for a predetermined amount of time that is running. correlation with a specific amount of formulation. In one embodiment, dispenser 112 uses a direct displacement pump, therefore the volume displaced for each rotation of the pump can be measured with an encoder. When the rotations of the pump are equal to the volume of formulation to be dispensed, the controller 148 can deactivate the pump.

In one embodiment, controller 148 has circuitry configured to control dispenser 112 to dispense a measured volume of formulation through one or more of the tips only when controller 148 senses that the tips are in contact with the scalp.

In one embodiment, controller 148 has circuitry configured to turn on and off LEDs of a certain wavelength to apply phototherapeutic treatment or be used to cure formulations.

In one embodiment, controller 148 has circuitry configured to control the vibration of selected individual spikes.

In one embodiment, the controller 148 has circuitry configured to control the dispensing of a measured amount of formulation through individual tips selected only upon sensing that the tips are in contact with the scalp. /the skin.

Use of device 100 is instinctive, the overall shape of device 100 is known to users of other hair styling appliances, such as a hair dryer, which leads to simple intuitive use of device 100. Device 100 can improve the current use of aerosol dry shampoos. Device 100 contrasts with an aerosol can that sprays more than necessary and produces a large cloud that covers an area well beyond the user's head. Additionally, device 100 has spikes that allow for additional functionality.

Although illustrative embodiments have been illustrated and described, it should be appreciated that various changes may be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims (7)

Hair and scalp treatment device (100), comprising:
a dispenser (112) connected to a cartridge (102), wherein the cartridge includes a formulation;
a plurality of tips (602, 702, 1100, 1200) on the device, wherein the tips have at least one aperture for dispensing the formulation and at least one LED (202, 1102, 1202) that emits light in the spectrum of visible color, wherein the at least one LED is located at the end of the tips; And
a controller (148) configured to individually turn on and off the LEDs of the plurality of tips. Device according to claim 1, wherein the at least one LED (202) is an RGB LED. A device according to claim 1, wherein the tips (602, 702, 1100, 1200) further include a UV or IR LED or both UV and IR LEDs at the end of the tips. Device according to claim 1, comprising a handle (104) and a section (138) with a brush head (140) comprising the plurality of tips, wherein the end of the handle includes a diffuser material (136) visible on the outside of the handle. Apparatus according to claim 1, comprising a handle (104) and a section (138) with a brush head (140) comprising the plurality of tips, wherein the section with the brush head is pivotable on the handle. Apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the controller (148) is configured to control the color of the tips by activating LEDs of different wavelengths. Device according to claim 1, in which the tips comprise conductive wiring (1302, 1304, 1306, 1308) in the form of turns.