U.S. patent application number 13/001689 was filed with the patent office on 2011-06-02 for device for applying a composition on human keratinous material.
This patent application is currently assigned to L'OREAL. Invention is credited to Henri Samain.
Application Number | 20110129283 13/001689 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 40409785 |
Filed Date | 2011-06-02 |
United States Patent
Application |
20110129283 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Samain; Henri |
June 2, 2011 |
DEVICE FOR APPLYING A COMPOSITION ON HUMAN KERATINOUS MATERIAL
Abstract
A device for applying a cosmetic composition on human keratinous
material, the device comprising: a non-colorimetric detection
system; an application system for applying the composition to
keratinous material, comprising a reservoir containing the cosmetic
composition; and a processor unit for controlling the application
system as a function at least of data received from the detection
system.
Inventors: |
Samain; Henri; (Bievres,
FR) |
Assignee: |
L'OREAL
Paris
FR
|
Family ID: |
40409785 |
Appl. No.: |
13/001689 |
Filed: |
July 10, 2009 |
PCT Filed: |
July 10, 2009 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/IB2009/053015 |
371 Date: |
February 15, 2011 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61083415 |
Jul 24, 2008 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
401/5 ;
132/200 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A45D 44/005 20130101;
A45D 2044/007 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
401/5 ;
132/200 |
International
Class: |
A45D 44/00 20060101
A45D044/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Jul 10, 2008 |
FR |
08 03952 |
Claims
1. A device for applying a cosmetic composition on human keratinous
material, the device comprising: a non-colorimetric detection
system; an application system for applying the composition to
keratinous material, comprising a reservoir containing the cosmetic
composition; and a processor unit for controlling the application
system as a function at least of data received from the detection
system.
2. A device according to claim 1, configured to enable detection
and application to be performed in a single pass.
3. A device according to claim 1, the detection system being
sensitive to soundwaves.
4. A device according to claim 1, the detection system being
sensitive to moisture.
5. A device according to claim 1, the detection system being
sensitive to at least one predefined chemical or biological
compound.
6. A device according to claim 1, the detection system being
sensitive to at least one electrical magnitude.
7. A device according to claim 1, the detection system being
sensitive to temperature.
8. A device according to claim 1, the detection system being
sensitive to relief.
9. A device according to any claim 1, including a user interface
for adjusting at least one threshold beyond which application is
performed, as a function of data coming from the detection
system.
10. A device according to claim 9, enabling a first threshold and a
second threshold to be adjusted, application taking place from the
second threshold, and the device warning the user when the results
of detection lie between the first and second thresholds.
11. A method of applying a cosmetic composition on human keratinous
material, the method comprising: automatically detecting a zone for
treatment of the keratinous material, detection being performed
with the help of a non-colorimetric detection system; and applying
a cosmetic composition to the zone as detected in this way.
12. A method according to claim 11, the keratinous material being
formed by the skin.
13. A method according to claim 11, application being performed
automatically by a device that is moved over the keratinous
material and that includes a non-colorimetric detection system.
14. A method according to claim 11, the detection system being
selected from detection systems that are sensitive to soundwaves,
to moisture, to at least one predefined chemical compound, to at
least one electrical magnitude, to temperature, and/or to portions
in relief.
15. A method according to claim 11, being performed by an
applicator making contact with the skin.
Description
[0001] The present invention relates to treating human keratinous
material, in particular by applying a cosmetic, i.e. non
therapeutic, or dermatological composition.
BACKGROUND
[0002] It is known to mask the blemishes that may be present on the
skin by applying makeup compositions, where such blemishes may be
situated for example on the face, the hands, the bust, the neck, or
the entire body.
[0003] By way of example, these blemishes may be differences in
color or non-uniformities in relief such as recesses, dilated
pores, or small scars. Non-uniformities of relief may be
accompanied by non-uniformities of color, because of shadow
effects.
[0004] Although some of these non-uniformities are well accepted,
many people are not at ease with some or all of the
non-uniformities presented by their skin. This is particularly true
of non-uniformities on skin that is easily seen, e.g. the face, the
hands, the bust, or the scalp.
[0005] In order to mask these non-uniformities, a conventional
approach consists in depositing a layer of covering composition
that masks the non-uniformity by going beyond it in all directions.
The technique is quite simple since it does not require great
accuracy. Its drawback is that the result is not very natural.
[0006] Another approach consists in covering the non-uniformity in
a masking composition in highly accurate manner. That approach in
which only the blemish itself is covered requires a great deal of
attention and rapidly becomes time-consuming when the skin presents
several non-uniformities, as often happens on the face, the hands,
or the neck.
[0007] Furthermore, the non-uniformities that are located in zones
that are difficult or impossible to see, e.g. the top of the scalp
or certain zones of the arms or the neck, it is necessary to have
the help of another person in order to apply the composition.
[0008] Consequently, there exists a need to camouflage blemishes of
keratinous material in a manner that is accurate and not too
constricting for the user.
[0009] Publication WO 2007/02195 A1 discloses a method of applying
makeup in which an agent that modifies the reflectance of the skin
is applied to the skin by using ink jet printer technology. In one
embodiment, the device includes a scanner and an ink jet printer,
and in a single pass over the skin it analyses the skin, identifies
unattractive characteristics, calculates the improvements to be
made, and applies the agent that modifies reflectance so as to
obtain those improvements. For example, the device can give a
softer appearance to the skin by identifying pale and dark points
and by applying the reflectance-modifying agent so as to darken
pale points using a predefined averaging technique. The device may
include means for recognizing the treated zone, e.g. the cheek bone
or the cheek so that the improvements made are specific to the zone
being treated, e.g. making cheeks look rosy so as to give the
appearance of a person in better health, or darkening zones under
the cheek bones so as to make them less prominent. A colorant may
be deposited on certain portions of the skin to make it more
uniform and markers that fluoresce under ultraviolet illumination
may be used to make it easier to recognize certain regions during
treatment. In an example seeking to simulate tanning, an agent that
modifies the spectral characteristics of the skin is applied so as
to reduce contrast between pale and dark zones, darkening zones of
the skin in selective manner, while causing certain details of the
skin to disappear. In another element, pale zones around wrinkles
are darkened but the hollow zones within wrinkles are not
modified.
[0010] Publication WO 2004/090629 A2 discloses a method of printing
on the skin.
[0011] U.S. Pat. No. 6,543,893 describes an ink jet printer
suitable for being moved manually over the skin. The printer may
have a screen for displaying images that are to be printed and a
device that enables the image to be personalized, e.g. by adding
text or other information.
[0012] U.S. Pat. No. 6, 622,723 describes an applicator having an
ink jet printer head.
[0013] Application US 2006/0098076 discloses a system for ink jet
printing on the skin that includes means for positioning the face.
The printer system is suitable for printing hairs on the eyebrows
or for printing color on the cheeks for blending in with a
brush.
[0014] Application WO 02/01499 A2 describes a method of applying
makeup by means of a movable applicator head supported by an arm
that is articulated so as to follow the three-dimensional shape of
the zone being made up. The three-dimensional shape is acquired
with the help of one or more cameras. A design selected by the user
can be printed using an ink jet. The printing may serve to cover a
pigment mark with the same color as the surrounding skin, after
performing colorimetric analysis thereon.
[0015] Application DE 10153249 A1 describes a method of applying
compositions on the skin by means of an ink jet printing technique.
Printing may be performed using a handpiece held by the user. In a
variant, the print head may move relative to the skin by moving a
belt or a carriage on a rail that is itself movable on two
slideways at its ends.
[0016] Publication JP 2006-297691 discloses a printer system for
printing an image on the skin, the system being fitted with means
that enable the color of the skin to be measured. The printer
system takes account of the color of the skin in the image that is
to be reproduced, the print head being provided with a
photodetector. For example, for a dark skin, the quantity of ink is
increased. In a variant, not only is the lightness of the skin
taken into consideration but also its color when calculating the
image for printing.
[0017] Publication GB 2 343 657 describes a portable ink jet
printer suitable for printing a mark authorizing entry to a concert
or a discotheque on the forearm or the hand of a person. The ink
that is deposited may be visible, fluorescent, magnetic,
phosphorescent, or photochromic.
[0018] Application WO 02/00189 A1 describes a method of applying a
colored composition on the skin in which it is possible to select a
blemish on an image of the zone for treatment, which image is
obtained by means of a camera that also measures color. Image
modification software makes it possible to correct a blemish in the
zone for treatment, e.g. a depigmented zone, by outlining the zone
with the help of a computer mouse and then printing on the
corrected zone the color of the surrounding zone.
[0019] Publication WO 03/032370 discloses an ink jet printer that
can be positioned manually on the skin in order to print a
tattoo.
[0020] Publication US 2007/0114306 describes an electrostatic spray
device for making up the skin.
[0021] U.S. Pat. No. 7,190,550 discloses an installation capable of
printing on the skin, in particular on the skin of the face.
[0022] Numerous appliances are also known for printing on the
nails, e.g. from U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,931,166 and 6,035,860.
SUMMARY
[0023] First exemplary embodiments of the invention provide a
device for applying a composition on human keratinous material, the
device comprising:
[0024] a non-colorimetric detection system;
[0025] an application system for applying the composition to
keratinous material; and
[0026] a processor unit for controlling the application system as a
function at least of data received from the detection system.
[0027] The device may include a handpiece including the detection
system and the application system, and possibly also the processor
unit.
[0028] The device may easily be used as an "intelligent applicator"
by the person desiring to apply makeup and/or a care product,
without needing help from another person. The device may
nevertheless also be used by a professional in a beauty parlor, for
example. The device may be manufactured at a cost that is
compatible with large-scale distribution.
[0029] The invention may be used specifically for treating
non-uniformities or other blemishes of keratinous materials,
without it being necessary to pay particular attention to the
handling of the handpiece. The invention thus enables zones to be
treated that are difficult or impossible to see.
[0030] The device may be configured to enable detection and
application to be performed in a single pass while moving the
handpiece over the keratinous material.
[0031] The term "non-colorimetric" should be understood as meaning
that detection is based on something other than measuring
color.
[0032] The detection system may thus be sensitive to soundwaves, to
moisture, to at least one predefined chemical or biological
compound, to at least one mechanical or electrical magnitude, to
temperature, and/or to relief.
[0033] Detecting soundwaves may provide information about friction
and surface state, and conductivity measurements may provide
information about hydration.
[0034] Other exemplary embodiments of the invention also provide a
treatment method, in particular a cosmetic treatment method, e.g.
by applying a composition, in particular a cosmetic, on human
keratinous material, the method comprising:
[0035] automatically detecting a zone for treatment of the
keratinous material, detection being performed with the help of a
non-colorimetric detection system; and
[0036] treating the zone as detected in this way, e.g. by applying
the composition to said zone. The treatment may be performed
automatically.
[0037] The keratinous material may be formed by the skin, the lips,
the fingernails, or the hair.
[0038] The application system may include at least one print head
enabling the composition to be projected onto the keratinous
material without the print head coming into contact with the
keratinous material.
[0039] The application system may also apply the composition by
means of an applicator member making contact with the keratinous
material. The application system may thus include an applicator
member that is secured to the handpiece, being movable between a
composition application position where it is in contact with the
keratinous material, and a position where it is spaced apart from
said keratinous material. The applicator member may be selected
from endpieces, in particular flocked endpieces, or foam endpieces,
paint brushes, applicators that retain composition by capillarity,
felt tips, membranes, porous bodies, beads, rollers, transfer
films, and flexible media.
[0040] By way of example, when in the application position, the
applicator member may have an area of contact with the skin that
lies in the range 1 square millimeter (mm.sup.2) to 2500
mm.sup.2.
[0041] The composition may be transferred onto the keratinous
material by capillarity. The composition may optionally be
deposited as a result of the speed of impact of the applicator
member against the keratinous material and/or of the force with
which the applicator member is pressed against the keratinous
material.
[0042] The applicator member may be secured to a moving portion
carrying a reservoir containing the composition for application,
and the applicator member may communicate with the reservoir via a
capillary wick or via a channel, the channel being formed within
the movable portion, for example. The movable portion may be
magnetic so as to enable it to be set into movement by a magnetic
field created by an excitation coil.
[0043] Where appropriate, advantage may be taken of the movement of
the applicator member to enhance impregnation of the applicator
member with composition. When it moves, the applicator member may
release a duct, possibly under pressure, so as to enable one or
more components to be injected. When it moves, the applicator
member may also create a suction effect for entraining a
liquid.
[0044] The applicator member may move against the action of a
resilient return member that may serve to brake the applicator
member and avoid it making contact with the keratinous material
that is too violent.
[0045] The device may include an actuator secured to the handpiece
for moving the applicator member between said positions. The device
may control the actuator to bring the applicator member
automatically into engagement with the keratinous material. The
actuator may be selected from actuators that are electromagnetic,
electrostatic, pneumatic, hydraulic, motor-driven, thermal,
piezoelectric, or that rely on electrochemical polymers. In a
variant, or in addition, the device may cause a sound and/or visual
signal and/or a vibration to be emitted so as to warn the user. The
handpiece may be arranged to enable the user as warned in this way
to bring the applicator member selectively into contact with the
keratinous material. For example, the handpiece may include a
button on which the user may press to control the actuator. In a
variant, it is the user who moves the applicator member manually in
order to bring it into contact with the keratinous material.
[0046] The processor unit is advantageously provided with a memory
or makes use of a memory, with it being possible to use any kind of
storage system, for example a universal serial bus (USB) key, an
electrically-programmable read-only memory (EPROM), a memory card,
a hard disk, or optical storage. The content of the memory may be
conserved after the device has been switched off.
[0047] The device may retain values that are specific to each user.
This function may be very useful for use within a family, for
example.
[0048] The device may include a system for acquiring at least one
tolerance zone for one or more detected characteristics. By way of
example, the device may include an interface enabling the user to
adjust the tolerance zone. As a function of the tolerance threshold
as predefined or adjusted by the user, composition may be applied
only on certain blemishes of keratinous material and not on others,
e.g. because the others are less visible.
[0049] Although enabling the user to adjust a tolerance zone is not
essential for proper operation of the device, given that the
tolerance zone may be predefined, implementations of the invention
make provision for this option. By way of example, a first approach
for defining the tolerance zone consists in using numbers or a
curve or a function to inform the device about limits of the
tolerance zone. The adjustment data may be entered manually or it
may be downloaded. The term "tolerance zone" should be understood
as being a limit value or one or more ranges of values with which
the result of detection may be compared, with the delivered data
optionally being processed by the detection system.
[0050] The device may inform the user that detection has been
performed without difficulty. Conversely, the apparatus may inform
the user that it has not been possible to accomplish detection.
[0051] Several actions are possible when the device determines that
application may take place. In particular, application may be
triggered automatically. Where appropriate, the user may be warned
that the device is ready for application to take place, but without
application being triggered. For example, the result of detection
may be signaled by means of light signals, a sound, or a vibration.
The processor unit may then wait for some action on the part of the
user. For example, the user may act on the user interface, e.g. by
pressing on an application button. The user may take some other
action on the handpiece, for example the user may bring the
above-mentioned applicator member into contact with the zone that
is to be made up.
[0052] The applied composition may be cosmetic and pigmented. The
composition may be photo-polymerizable.
[0053] The composition that is applied may have a color that
matches the color of the skin. The composition may be contained in
a single reservoir of a composition having a predefined color or
may be formed by mixing together various components contained in
corresponding reservoirs.
[0054] The user may place the handpiece on the skin in the zone
that is to be treated or may move the handpiece progressively as
treatment takes place, causing it to slide over the skin. The user
may also make use of a plurality of handpieces, e.g. for use with
different parts of the body. The handpiece may be suitable for use
on the hair or on the fingernails.
[0055] The device may include a source of vibration for subjecting
the applicator member to vibration when it makes contact with the
skin. This may cause the outline of the deposit to be less visible
and/or may make it easier to transfer composition.
[0056] The device may put application on hold until detection
stabilizes, or whenever the result of treatment is uncertain,
atypical, or unstable. The device may continue to restart detection
for as long as the result of detection varies. It is only when
detected values stabilize that application is launched. If the
value measured by a sensor does not stabilize, the data capture
corresponding to the sensor need not be taken into account.
[0057] Other exemplary embodiments of the invention also provide a
method of treating human keratinous material, in particular a
cosmetic treatment method, wherein a composition is applied by
means of a device as defined above.
[0058] The invention can be better understood on reading the
following detailed description of non-limiting implementations
hereof, and on examining the accompanying drawings, in which:
[0059] FIG. 1 shows various steps in an example method of the
invention;
[0060] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an example device made in
accordance with the invention;
[0061] FIG. 3 is a diagrammatic perspective view of an example
device made in accordance with the invention;
[0062] FIG. 4 is a view analogous to FIG. 3 for a variant
device;
[0063] FIGS. 5 and 14 are electronic schematic diagrams of example
devices;
[0064] FIG. 6 shows an example of a user interface;
[0065] FIG. 7 is a diagram of an example of an application
system;
[0066] FIGS. 8 to 12 are fragmentary and diagrammatic axial section
views of variant application systems; and
[0067] FIGS. 13A to 13C show steps during the operation of the FIG.
12 device.
DEVICE
[0068] In one of its exemplary embodiments and as shown
diagrammatically in FIG. 2, the invention may be implemented with
the help of an application device 10 that comprises: a detection
system 11; an application system 12; a user interface 13; and a
processor unit 14, which unit may serve to receive data from the
detection unit 11 and the user interface 13, and to control the
application system 12.
[0069] The processor unit 14 is made with the help of any computer
or electronic means, e.g. a microcomputer, a minicomputer, a
microcontroller, a programmable logic array, or by any analog
and/or digital means enabling calculations to be performed.
[0070] The device 10 may be used to implement the method having the
steps set out in FIG. 1.
[0071] The method comprises a step 20 of detecting a
non-colorimetric characteristic of human keratinous material, a
step 22 of analyzing data derived from the detection, e.g. for the
purpose of determining whether the data lies within a tolerance
range, if so application is not triggered, or on the contrary lies
outside the tolerance range, and if so application is triggered in
a step 24.
[0072] Application may be initiated as a function of a decision
threshold, also referred to a tolerance zone, and this threshold
may be adjusted by the user in a step 26.
[0073] The method may be implemented iteratively, i.e. once an
application has been performed, the device returns to detection
step 20.
Treatment
[0074] Treatment may be performed wherever the device detects a
zone presenting predefined characteristics. This treatment may
comprise applying a composition.
Compositions
[0075] The composition(s) applied will generally be in fluid form,
and may be based on water or on solvent and contain dyes that are
natural or artificial, optionally fluorescent, optionally
phosphorescent, pigments that may be organic and/or inorganic,
mixtures of these compounds, or indeed materials that are not
colored but that produce optical effects.
[0076] The compounds contained in the composition may be in
dispersion, may be dissolved, or they may be in an emulsion. They
may also form a mixture that is relatively unstable, and that may
need to be made uniform at the time of application.
[0077] The composition(s) may be contained in reservoirs that are
easy to fill or to remove and replace.
[0078] The composition(s) may contain photo-protective agents such
as UV filters or pigments, or a mixture of colored and
photo-protective ingredients.
[0079] In one particular utilization the composition is not
colored. This utilization is particularly advantageous for people
having zones that they desire to protect from the sun, e.g. beauty
spots, or zones lacking in pigmentation.
[0080] The composition(s) may contain additives, and in particular
holding agents and/or cosmetic agents, e.g. selected from polymers,
surface-active agents, oils, waxes, silicones, fragrances,
adhesives, glues, photosensitive or thermosensitive materials,
gelling or thickening agents, antibacterial agents.
[0081] The composition may contain active agents selected for
example from docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), sun filters, depilatory
compositions, bleaches, depigmenting agents, peeling
compositions.
[0082] The composition(s) may be inks adapted from printing
technology, and also adapted to the color that is desired.
[0083] The inks used are preferably fluid and may be based on water
or on organic solvents and may include at least one coloring agent
selected from natural or artificial dyes that may optionally be
fluorescent or phosphorescent, organic and/or inorganic pigments,
and mixtures thereof.
[0084] The ink may include one or more non-colored materials that
provide optical effects, for example a fuzzy effect.
[0085] Where appropriate, one of the printed compositions may be a
base coat or a top coat in order to improve the retention of the
inks, for example.
[0086] The coloring agent(s) and the non-colored agent(s) that are
optically active may be in a dispersion, dissolved, or in an
emulsion. The may also form a mixture that is not very stable, and
which may need to be remixed or redispersed at the time of use.
[0087] By way of example, the inks are disposed in a cartridge of a
group of cartridges so as to be easy to remove and replace.
[0088] It is possible to use one or more ink cartridges of colors
that correspond for example to the primary colors cyan, magenta,
yellow, and black, or to colors that are close to skin color (pink,
ochre, beige, ivory, brown, . . . )
[0089] In an implementation of the invention, a single print nozzle
is used together with a plurality of ink cartridges of predefined
colors. For example one to 1000, e.g. 16 colored inks are used
representing a set of colors that are usually to be found on the
skin: pale beige, yellowy beige, pinky beige, . . . . All of the
cartridges may be connected to a print head and the device may
modulate the flow rate of each of the cartridges towards the print
head as a function of the color that is to be printed, with
modulation being performed, for example, with the help of
electrostatic microfluidic technology.
Handpiece
[0090] The detection system 11 and the application system 12 may be
grouped together with a single handpiece 60, as shown in FIG.
3.
[0091] This handpiece 60 may also include all or part of the user
interface 13, which may include for example an on/off button, an
optional slider to adjust the tolerance threshold from which
application is triggered, and an indicator lamp for indicating that
the detected zone is suitable for receiving composition.
[0092] The handpiece 60 may comprise a casing having secured
thereto, at least while the device is in use, the detection system
11 and the application system 12, together with the user interface
13.
[0093] The handpiece 60 may house the processor unit 14, or in a
variant the processor unit may be remote, with the handpiece 60
being connected to the processor unit 14 as shown in FIG. 4 by
means of a connection 66 which may be wired or wireless, for
example.
[0094] As shown, the handpiece 60 may include an end portion 67 for
bringing into contact with or close to the skin, with detection and
composition application taking place through the end portion.
[0095] The detection system and the application system may be in a
single housing and close together. In a variant, the detection
system and the application system may be in a single housing but
spaced apart from each other. Under such circumstances, and for
example, the device may include means for detecting that the
handpiece is moving relative to the keratinous material, so as to
enable application to be performed in a position that is identified
relative to the detection.
[0096] The means for detecting movement may comprise, for example:
one or more wheels and one or more optical sensors of the kind to
be found in a computer mouse, for example.
[0097] The detection and application systems may be housed in two
different casings that the user may optionally bring together
during utilization. Thus, if the detection system warns the user
about the presence of a blemish, the user may for example secure
the application system to the detection system, e.g. by engaging
one within the other. The two systems may include electrical and/or
fluid flow connectors that co-operate when the systems are
assembled together. By way of example, the detection system may
include a channel opening out into the detection zone and enabling
fluid to be transferred from the application system to the
skin.
[0098] In another example, if the detection system warns the user
of the presence of a blemish, the user may merely raise the
detection system and present the application system to the same
location.
[0099] The detection system and the application system may be
connected together by a wired or wireless connection, for the
purpose of transferring information. The detection system may
inform the application system about the nature or the amplitude of
the blemish, so that the application system adjusts the nature and
the quantity of compound to be applied.
[0100] In another example, the user has two apparatuses, one
containing the detection system and the other containing the
detection system and the application system. The user can use the
first apparatus, and when it detects a blemish and issues a warning
about the presence of the blemish, the user removes it and places
the second apparatuses on the corresponding zone of skin. The
second apparatus then searches for the blemish and applies the
composition. This may enable an initial search for blemishes to
take place using lightweight apparatus. It is only once the system
has found the blemish that the user needs to apply the application
system, which is often heavier. A second advantage lies in the
modularity of this approach since it enables numerous compounds to
be used depending on the detected blemish. Thus, the user may have
a collection of reservoirs adapted to a variety of blemish
situations. When the detection system detects a blemish, it can
instruct the user to make use of one or another of the reservoirs
containing a compound suitable for treating the blemish in
question, for example by masking it.
[0101] In the example of FIG. 3, the handpiece is elongate in
shape, however the shape of the handpiece could naturally be
modified without going beyond the ambit of the present
invention.
Application System
[0102] The application system may include a print head.
[0103] Any print technology can be suitable.
[0104] Mention can be made in particular of offset printing,
photogravure, flexography, silk-screen printing, pad printing,
electrophotography (also known as xerography, electrostatic
printing, or laser printing), thermal printing (including in
particular simple thermal printing, thermal transfer printing, or
thermal sublimation printing), elcography, toner jet,
magnetography, ionography (also known as ion jet, electron beam
imaging, or electrography), and ink jet printing (including in
particular so-called "continuous ink jet" and "drop on demand"
technologies).
[0105] Ink can be ejected as a jet or as droplets by a
piezoelectric element, by a thermal element (bubble jet), by
hot-melting, or by means of a valve (valve jet).
[0106] Mention may also be made of impact printing techniques, such
as for example hammer or chain printing, needle or dot matrix
printing, daisy wheel printing, thimble printing, and techniques
such as minispray, gas printing, compressed air printing, liquefied
gas printing, fluidized pressure printing, such as for example
airbrushes or minisprays obtained by a moving part, e.g. a moving
piezoelectric crystal.
[0107] It is also possible to use printer means comprising a
movable print element such as a sponge, a felt, a paint brush, a
hollow tube, or a syringe, that contains ink that is put into
contact with the skin for printing purposes. Contact time may be
adjustable and may vary for example over the range 1/1000th of a
second (s) to several seconds.
[0108] The term "printing" is used to mean delivering a composition
onto the surface of the material for treatment, and in particular
the skin. In the meaning of the invention, printing relates to
delivering the composition onto or beneath the surface for
treatment. Thus, printer means using needle printing technology can
enable the ink to penetrate into the stratum corneum, the
epidermis, or the dermis. For this purpose, it is possible to use
strong needles or brittle needles, or the like.
[0109] The application system may have a single print nozzle or a
plurality of nozzles in parallel. The printer system may have
nozzles that are dedicated to respective inks, or in a variant it
may have a single nozzle for ejecting a plurality of different inks
in succession or mixed together while printing is taking place so
as to create the color that is to be printed.
[0110] The print head may be spaced apart from the skin so as to
avoid coming directly into contact with the skin. This spacing may
be fixed or adjustable. It is possible to adjust the spacing either
directly, e.g. by turning a knob or by acting on an adjustment
button that controls the movement of a motor, or else
automatically. For automatic adjustment, the processor unit
controls a motor to change the spacing.
[0111] If it is desired to perform sharp printing, the spacing can
be adjusted to a small value, e.g. one millimeter or less, and
conversely, if it is desired to perform fuzzier printing it is
possible to adjust the spacing to a greater distance, e.g. 1 cm or
more.
[0112] The application system may include a print head capable of
printing over the entire surface for treatment. By way of example,
the print head may include one or more ink ejection nozzles.
Assuming that the user moves the handpiece along an axis X, the
print head may extend perpendicularly to the travel direction X of
the apparatus.
[0113] The print head may be stationary within the apparatus or it
may be movable along an axis Y that is perpendicular to the axis X.
For example, the apparatus may be used to perform scanning in a Y
direction of the print head with or without printing taking place
during carriage return. The carriage may be driven by stepper
motors, e.g. motors that are addressed directly by a USB port.
[0114] When the handpiece has a plurality of print heads that are
stationary within the handpiece, the print heads may be in
alignment or otherwise, for example they may be in a staggered
configuration.
[0115] The handpiece may include an application system with at
least one print head that is capable of moving relative to the
above-mentioned carriage, along an axis Z that is perpendicular to
the axes X and Y.
[0116] The print head may be actuated mechanically during printing,
e.g. by means of a vibrator, in order to obtain a fuzzy effect.
[0117] The handpiece may include a vacuum or blower system in order
to accelerate drying, and/or a heater system.
[0118] When the composition deposited on the keratinous material
requires exposure to light radiation, e.g. UV radiation, in order
to polymerize, the handpiece may include a corresponding lighting
system for assisting the polymerization of the composition(s)
concerned.
[0119] The application system may have a print line made up of a
plurality of print elements disposed along a print line. By way of
example the print elements may be nozzles that enable the color for
printing locally to be created on printing.
[0120] The printing may take place by depositing a plurality of
inks of different colors in juxtaposed manner or in a manner that
is at least partially superposed. The deposited slots of different
inks may optionally have the same size.
[0121] The area of skin may be entirely covered by the ink(s), or
gaps may be left between the deposits of ink. Inks may be deposited
on the skin in a silk-screen configuration.
[0122] When an image is printed on the skin, the image need not be
uniform, i.e. printing may make use of at least one ink that is
deposited in non-uniform manner over the area that is being
treated.
[0123] The device may include a monitoring system enabling the user
or the device to determine whether printing is satisfactory or
whether printing needs to be continued or corrected. By way of
example, the monitoring system uses the acquisition system or
includes a specific color detector or camera. For example, the
device may reproduce the skin that is being treated on a screen.
Although hidden by the device, the skin can be viewed by the user,
thereby enabling the user to access the result while it is being
achieved.
[0124] Since the movement of the handpiece is not necessarily
rectilinear, it is possible to provide for treatment that is
"point-to-point" as opposed to "line-to-line" so that printing
takes place in identified positions relative to the skin even if
the path followed by the handpiece is curved.
Application of a Composition having a Color Matching a Skin
Color
[0125] The application system may apply a composition having a
color that has been selected to match a skin color, even where the
composition is obtained by mixing of components of different colors
outside the device.
[0126] For example, the handpiece may send data related to the
color of the skin to a mixing unit. The mixing unit may mix two or
more components to obtain a mixture having a color that matches the
color of the skin. In some embodiments, the user may use an
independent mixing unit, that is configured to analyse the skin and
to mix at least two components to produce a mixture having a color
which matches the analyzed skin. The mixing unit may be used at,
e.g., home, a point of sale, or at any suitable location.
[0127] In other embodiments, the handpiece may send data relating
to the color of the skin to a decision unit. The decision unit may
be located remotely and may be configured to identify, e.g., from a
library of products, a product having a color that matches the
color of the skin.
[0128] In other embodiments, the user uses a decision unit. The
decision unit is capable of analyzing the skin, to identify, e.g.,
in a library, a product having a color that matches the color of
the skin. The mixing unit may be used, e.g., at home, at a point of
sale, or at any suitable location.
[0129] The user may load a composition in the handpiece. The user
may also load a product at a plurality of times throughout a
particularly time frame (e.g., monthly, weekly, daily, (many times
a year), to adapt the color of the composition to natural
variations of skin color at various times during the time period,
and to the ambient light at different times (e.g., of the year)
among other things.
[0130] The user may load one or more compositions in the handpiece.
The latter may analyse the color of the skin, either at each use of
the device and/or on a regular basis (e.g., not each time the
device is used). The device may automatically select the product to
be used or alert the user that the user may load a specific product
into the device. The device may store (e.g., in a memory) data that
will allow identification of a product that matches at least one
color of skin or may have access to a memory that will allow such
an identification.
[0131] In some embodiments, a color of the skin is measured at a
time t and products are made having colors corresponding to the
colors that are expected during a time At (e.g., during the year)
for an individual. The products may be made by mixing components of
various colors (e.g., by the user himself by identifying the
products in a library of products) or by other suitable methods.
The range of products and corresponding colors may be determined by
software that computes the evolution of skin color according to
personal data and/or general data. For example, if the skin color
is measured in winter, one may make a plurality of products, for
example four products, one product corresponding to the skin color
as measured, and the other products corresponding to expected
colors at spring, summer, and autumn. Notably, any suitable time
period may be used, and use of the seasons is intended as exemplary
only.
[0132] The software may utilize, for example, statistical rules of
evolution of the color of different categories of skin during the
year for making such determinations related to colors.
[0133] The software may also take into account personal factors
such as for example, the user's surroundings, a user's life style a
habits, the places and dates of holidays/vacations and other
suitable factor.
[0134] In some embodiments, the software may take into account
weather data such as sun exposure.
[0135] The device may, by analyzing the color of the skin, either
at each use or on a regular basis but not necessarily at each use,
select a product and use this product, or it may alert the user
that he may load a specific product. This may store in a memory or
have access to a memory that will allow identification of th
product that matches or is a closest match to the color of the
skin. The device may comprise a timer that provides information
relating to particular time periods (e.g., calendar dates) and may
facilitate selection of the product to use.
[0136] The software may comprise a learning system that may enable
improvements in the predictions.
[0137] One may pre-set the color of the composition. One may set,
in a precise manner the color later, using the preselect color and
adding to such preselect color, additional color components. The
first setting may be done at for example, a store and the later
setting may be made at, for example, home, either in the device
itself or outside the device.
[0138] It may be possible to identify a color that matches the
color of the skin and to make or select at least two products
having colors that are different from the current matching color
with for example the current color of the skin between them.
EXAMPLE 1
Contact Application System
[0139] FIG. 7 shows an example of an application system 12 of the
kind that can be found in the handpiece 60. The application system
12 may comprise a casing 69 that is stationary relative to a
housing 63 of the handpiece, with an electromagnet 85 being
contained therein serving to move a moving portion 86 along an axis
Z against the action of a resilient return member 87. This member
limits stroke and attenuates movement so as to avoid any sudden
impact against the skin.
[0140] In the example shown, the movable portion 86 carries the
applicator member 90 that is to come into contact with the
keratinous material when the electromagnet 85 is electrically
excited.
[0141] When excitation of the electromagnet 85 ceases, the
resilient return member 87 returns the movable portion 86
rearwards.
[0142] In order to damp the return movement of the movable portion
86, the application system 12 may include a damper member 95, e.g.
formed by a resilient return member that is compressed when the
rearward movement of the movable portion 86 exceeds a predefined
stroke.
[0143] The movable portion 86 may include a reservoir 100
containing the composition for application on the keratinous
material, and in communication with the applicator member 90.
[0144] By way of example the reservoir 100 is made of plastics
material and is open at one end.
[0145] The applicator member 90 may be a porous felt tip that
communicates with the reservoir. Thus, the composition contained in
the reservoir migrates by capillarity through the applicator
member.
[0146] The movable portion 86 may be made magnetic by means of an
iron ring, e.g. having a length of about 2 centimeters (cm). The
reservoir 100 may be adhesively-bonded to the ring.
[0147] By way of example, the winding 85a of the electromagnet may
be contained in a soft iron part 85 that is U-shaped, with a hole
in the middle. A U-shape has the advantage of concentrating the
magnetic field created by the winding in its center, thereby
attracting the movable portion by moving it to the left in FIG.
7.
[0148] In a variant that is not shown, the application system 12 is
movable relative to the housing 63 of the handpiece against the
return action of a resilient return member, and the application
system 12 may be secured to a skirt for coming into contact with
the skin. Preferably, the skirt is made of an
elastically-deformable material so as to match the shape of the
region being treated.
Processor Unit and User interface
[0149] The base station and/or the handpiece may contain an
electronics card carrying the processor unit 14, its memory 206,
e.g. of the EPROM type, an analog-digital converter 208, an
oscillator 209, clocked at 24 megahertz (MHz), for example, a power
module 210, and a general power supply 215.
[0150] By way of example, the processor unit 14 is a programmable
logic array, e.g. from the supplier Altera under the reference
Cyclone III EPC 3.
[0151] As shown in FIG. 6, four buttons 220 and three liquid
crystal displays 200 may be carried by a front plate that is
incorporated in the handpiece or in the base station, with the
displays and the buttons being connected to the processor unit 14,
e.g. via a serial connection.
[0152] On being switched on, the program that controls the
operation of the processor unit is loaded from the memory 206.
[0153] As shown in FIG. 5, the device may also include an on/off
button 277, and an indicator lamp 278 informing the user that an
out-of-tolerance zone has been detected. By way of example, the
lamp 278 is placed on the handpiece, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4.
[0154] By way of example, the converter 208 is an AD7794 converter
having six inputs from the supplier Analog Device, and it may
incorporate a six-input analog multiplexer.
[0155] By way of example, the power module 210 comprises an
operational amplifier and a power stage including power transistors
suitable for generating currents of several amps for the purpose of
exciting the coil 85a and of setting the movable portion 86 of the
application system into motion, as described with reference to FIG.
7.
Detection System Responsive to Soundwaves
[0156] The handpiece may include a microphone in order to sense
noise representative of rubbing against the skin.
[0157] By way of example, the device is made with the electronic
circuit described above with reference to FIG. 5 and the
application system of FIG. 7.
[0158] A microphone 310 may be fastened to the casing 69 as shown
in FIG. 8, the microphone 310 being constituted for example by a
unidirectional microphone of the kind sold by the supplier Projects
Unlimited, under the reference PUM 3546L-R.
[0159] It is also possible to fasten a ring 315, e.g. a PTFE ring
at the front of the handpiece. The ring 315 is in contact with the
skin and creates a noise in the event of roughness. It allows the
movable portion 86 of the print head to pass through its
center.
[0160] The handpiece is connected to the base station via a sheet
containing the connection wires that enable the microphone to be
connected to the analog-to-digital converter, and containing the
print control cable from the power module 210.
[0161] The processor unit 14 performs several functions in this
example:
[0162] 1) data capture from the four adjustment buttons 220. Each
button 220 serves to vary a register either by incrementing it or
by decrementing it, e.g. a register encoded on 8 bits, with this
applying to two registers referred to as S.sub.limit and
S.sub.action;
[0163] 2) controlling the converter 208 that continuously receives
analog data from the microphone 310, via an operational amplifier
224, e.g. of the kind sold by the supplier Analog Device under the
reference OP27GSZ. It transforms the analog data representing sound
volume into sequential digital values in the form of 16-bit numbers
delivered at a rate of 100 Hz;
[0164] 3) digital data capture from the converter 208, received via
a serial link 229, e.g. of the serial peripheral interface (SPI)
type;
[0165] 4) converting the numerical value for sound volume from 16
bits to 8 bits and storing it in a register referred to as
S.sub.measured;
[0166] 5) sending the values of the three registers S.sub.min,
S.sub.max, and S.sub.measured to the three displays 200. This is
done for example over a serial link in the form of ASCII code.
[0167] Comparison operations may be performed by the processor unit
14, namely:
[0168] S.sub.measured may be compared with S.sub.limit and
S.sub.action as follows:
[0169] if S.sub.measured>S.sub.action, the processor unit
instructs printing with a pulse of duration d.sub.1, e.g. 1/20th of
a second (s);
[0170] if S.sub.measured>S.sub.limit, the processor unit turns
on the indicator light 278 that is present on the handpiece.
[0171] The processor unit thus enables the duration of the pulse
delivered to be adjusted if the result of the logical operations is
to lead to printing. Two print durations d.sub.1 and d.sub.2 may be
provided, e.g. having respective lengths of 1/20 s and 1/5 s.
[0172] During printing, i.e. while the movable portion is advancing
towards the skin, capture from the microphone is ignored. The
apparatus cannot be activated by the noise it makes itself.
Operation
[0173] The reservoir 100 is filled with a dispersion of fresh
colored pigments.
[0174] The base station is switched on.
[0175] The memory 206 contains the values S.sub.limit and
S.sub.action. Optionally, the user adjusts the values of the
registers S.sub.limit and S.sub.action.
[0176] The handpiece is brought up to the skin. The user may place
it wherever desired, but it is advantageous to place it in a zone
that contains blemishes for correcting directly, e.g. the
cheeks.
[0177] The user can move the handpiece over the skin.
[0178] As soon as the device detects a zone outside the threshold
S.sub.limit, the lamp 278 is switched on, indicating that roughness
is coming close to the threshold from which printing is
triggered.
[0179] As soon as the apparatus detects a zone beyond S.sub.action,
the base station sends an instruction to the handpiece to perform
application. Current is generated in the coil 85a. As a result the
movable portion 86 moves towards the skin under the effect of the
magnetic field from the coil. Contact is very brief and the movable
portion returns rearwards. The applicator member 90 has made
contact with the skin and has transferred color.
[0180] Since the device triggers printing only on zones of
roughness that lies outside tolerance, it follows that printing is
very well localized.
[0181] The user may change ink either to change its color or its
covering power, or else its texture or grain.
[0182] The user may also change S.sub.limit or S.sub.action by
acting on a pushbutton 220, and this can be done without it being
necessary to restart the apparatus.
[0183] It is possible to replace the colored composition with a
care composition for example, and to treat any portion of the body
such as the hair, the fingernails, the skin of the legs,
EXAMPLE 2
Handpiece
[0184] In this example, the handpiece has a plurality of print
heads, e.g. four print heads, that are disposed side by side as
shown in FIG. 9, for example, each print head being 2.5 cm wide for
example with the print heads being spaced apart from one another by
0.5 cm.
[0185] The applicator members 90 of the various print heads may be
wider than the associated reservoirs, for example.
[0186] The ring 315 of the example of FIG. 8 is replaced by four
sets of teeth 318, each tooth being 1.2 mm wide and 1 cm long, for
example, with two consecutive teeth being spaced apart by 1.2 mm,
for example. By way of example, the teeth have rounded ends. Each
set of teeth 318 is 2.5 cm long, for example.
[0187] The sets of teeth 318 are placed ahead of the applicator
members 90 in the travel direction of the handpiece, e.g. by 5 mm,
and by way of example they are fastened to the rear face of the
handpiece by a vibration-absorbing material, e.g. a gasket made of
elastomer, e.g. silicone.
[0188] The four unidirectional microphones are placed close to the
sets of teeth 318, facing the skin.
[0189] The four print heads may be actuated independently of one
another by the base station.
[0190] The four corresponding reservoirs are filled with a care
product, e.g. a silicone-amine at 2% by weight in a 80:20 mixture
of water/ethanol.
[0191] It is possible to treat the skin, the hair, or the
eyelashes, and the apparatus is recommended for non-uniform
surfaces.
Base Station
[0192] The base station is made in a manner similar to that
described in Example 1 so as to receive the signals from the four
unidirectional microphones and so as to control the four coils of
the print heads.
[0193] The converter 208 converts the inputs from the four
microphones, after amplification, repeatedly and sequentially.
[0194] The processor unit analyses the measurements by comparing
them with reference values for S.sub.limit and S.sub.action.
[0195] If one or more values exceeds S.sub.limit, the processor
unit causes the indicator lamp 278 to be switched on.
[0196] If one or more measured values exceeds S.sub.action, the
processor unit instructs printing via the power module.
Variants
[0197] A characteristic such as the density of keratinous material
or the presence of blood in movement may be detected with an
echographic system operating at a wavelength that is adapted to the
target accuracy and depth.
Detection System Responsive to an Electrical Magnitude
[0198] The detection system 12 may be responsive to electrical
conductivity, which may provide information about the state of
moisturization of the skin, for example.
EXAMPLE 3
Handpiece
[0199] The application system is identical to that described with
reference to FIG. 7, for example.
[0200] As shown in FIG. 10, a ring 410, e.g. made of PTFE may be
fastened to the front close to the applicator member. The ring 410
comes into contact with the skin and allows the movable portion 86
of the print head to pass through its center.
[0201] Two electrodes 415, e.g. flat electrodes made of platinum,
e.g. each presenting an area of 50 square millimeters (mm.sup.2)
may be fastened to the front face of the ring 415.
[0202] Both electrodes 415 are fed with current, e.g. 4 microamps
(.mu.A), and the voltage across the terminals is measured with an
operational amplifier 417, e.g. an AD 8675 from the supplier Analog
Device, connected as a differential amplifier.
[0203] A magnitude representative of conductivity, e.g. expressed
in volts (V) is delivered continuously to the converter 208.
[0204] When the movable portion 86 advances towards the skin,
voltage capture is deactivated.
Base Station
[0205] The base station is similar to that of the example shown in
FIG. 5, except that the adjustment button 220 cause two respective
registers V.sub.limit and V.sub.action to vary, either by
incrementing them or by decrementing them.
[0206] The converter 208 converts the voltage data delivered by the
electrodes 415 and coming from the operational amplifier 417 and
transforms the analog data representative of the voltage
sequentially and at a rate of 100 Hz for example into digital
values in the form of numbers that are coded on 16 bits, for
example.
[0207] By way of example, the processor unit 14 performs the
following operations:
V.sub.measured is compared with V.sub.limit and V.sub.action.
[0208] If V.sub.measured>V.sub.action, then the processor unit
14 considers that the surface is too dry, and it instructs printing
with a pulse duration d.sub.1 of 1/20th s, for example.
[0209] .sup.If V.sub.measured then the processor unit considers
that the skin is moisturized near the limit, and instructs the lamp
278 that is present on the handpiece to be switched on.
Operation
[0210] The reservoir 100 is filled with a composition for
application, e.g. containing 80% water and 20% glycerol, by
weight.
[0211] The memory 206 informs the processor unit 14 about the
values V.sub.limit and V.sub.action. The user optionally adjusts
the values in these registers with the help of the button 220.
[0212] The handpiece is brought up to the skin. The user may place
it wherever desired, but is advantageous to place it on a zone of
skin that is poorly moisturized or that is dry, e.g. a zone that is
naturally dry such as the legs, for example, or a zone that has
become dehydrated by treatment and exposure to low temperature or
to the sun, e.g. the cheeks, arms, stomach, mucous membranes such
as the lips, or the hair.
[0213] The user may move the handpiece over the skin. As soon as
the apparatus detects a zone beyond V.sub.limit, the lamp 278 is
switched on, indicating that the degree of moisturization is close
to the limit.
[0214] As soon as the apparatus detects a zone beyond V.sub.action,
the processor unit sends an instruction to the handpiece to perform
printing and a current is generated in the coil 85a. As a result,
the movable portion 86, under the effect of the magnetic field from
the coil 85a is moved towards the skin.
[0215] Since the apparatus triggers printing only on zones where
conductivity lies outside tolerance, it follows that printing is
well localized.
[0216] The user may change the care product and switch to
compositions that combine a care product and makeup or that perform
makeup alone.
[0217] The user may also change the values of the registers
V.sub.limit and V.sub.action, without there being any need to
restart the device.
EXAMPLE 4
[0218] The same device is used as in Example 3 except that the
device includes a selector 243, as shown in FIG. 6, which selector
is connected to the processor unit 14. The processor unit is
programmed to record corresponding values V.sub.limit and
V.sub.action depending on the position of the selector 243 that is
selected by the operator.
[0219] The processor unit causes the values V.sub.limit and
V.sub.action to appear on the display 200.
[0220] A button 244 connected to the processor unit 14 enables the
user to record in the memory 206 the adjusted values in a
correspondence table "body-V.sub.limit-V.sub.action".
Operation
[0221] The reservoir 100 is filled with a treatment composition
containing, by way of example: 50% water, 20% ethanol, 20%
glycerol, 1% silicone-amine, and 1% DHA, all percentages being by
weight.
[0222] The device is switched on. The user adjusts the selector 243
on the body portion that is to be treated. The memory 206 informs
the processor unit 14 about the register values V.sub.limit and
V.sub.action from the above-mentioned correspondence table.
[0223] The user makes use of the device as in Example 3, except
that the adjustment of the device is changed as often as the
treatment zone is changed.
[0224] The user may change the recorded values V.sub.limit and
V.sub.action without needing to restart the apparatus.
[0225] As testing proceeds, the user may adjust the values
V.sub.action and V.sub.limit in a personalized manner meeting the
user's tastes, for each treatment zone.
[0226] The device may be modified by giving it a system that
accepts a plurality of reservoirs. Each reservoir may contain a
care product that corresponds to a specific portion of the
body.
[0227] Since the device is informed by the selector 243 about which
portion of the body is being treated, it is capable of switching
automatically from one reservoir to another. Under such
circumstances, the handpiece may include not only a system having a
plurality of removable reservoirs, but also a system for selecting
the reservoirs, which system is put into action by the processor
unit, e.g. a rotary system.
EXAMPLE 5
[0228] The same base station may be used as in Example 3. The same
handpiece may be used as in Example 3, with the exception of the
electrode 415, which electrodes are not arranged in the same
manner.
[0229] As shown in FIG. 11, the two electrodes 415 may be placed on
a clamp 420 so as to face each other when the clamp 420 is closed.
The clamp 420 may open in order to receive the surface for
treatment (eyelashes, hair) and then close onto said surface.
[0230] An abutment 425 may serve to prevent the two electrodes 415
from touching. The electrodes may be spaced apart by a gap of 1 mm,
for example.
[0231] Once opened, the clamp 420 sends a measurement inactivation
signal to the base station.
[0232] By way of example, the apparatus applies a care composition,
based on dissolved silicone (5%) in a volatile solvent (silicone
D5).
EXAMPLE 6
[0233] The detected electrical magnitude may be capacitance, and it
is possible to use a detection system made up of a plurality of
cells.
[0234] By way of example, it is possible to use a system of the
kind used for recognizing fingerprints. The system is made up of a
plurality of capacitance-measuring cells. Each cell is formed by
two electrodes that measure capacitance locally. When the skin is
close to two electrodes, and thus to the electric field formed by
the two electrodes of the cell, the skin modifies the capacitance
of the cell.
[0235] An example of a system that is suitable for this utilization
is constituted, for example, by a sensor that is sold by the
supplier ST Microelectronics, comprising 256.times.360 detection
cells of size close to 50 .mu.m and operating at 14 data captures
per second. The matrix sensor may be used in association with
electrodes and computer systems (drivers, PerfectPrint control
system) of specifications that are given in the document "Advanced
Datasheeet TCS1AD-Touchchip Silicon Fingerprint Sensor", "Version
0.1, May 2001", issued by the supplier ST Microelectronics.
Handpiece
[0236] The matrix sensor, e.g. of the Touchchip.RTM. type as
described above is fastened to a frame, together with a print head
taken from an ink jet printer, e.g. of the Lexmark trademark.
[0237] These two elements are fastened and spaced apart by one
centimeter, for example, measured edge to edge. The frame also has
two movement detectors fastened thereto, e.g. X and Y detectors
from the supplier ETC and referenced OM02 Optical Sensor. These
detectors are interfaced for transforming perceived movements into
information about the situation of the handpiece and they may be
connected to an EKM8022 mouse controller circuit from the supplier
Elan.
[0238] Four wheels may be positioned on the frame so that movement
on the skin of the frame as a whole causes a zone of skin to begin
by being positioned relative of the sensor and then relative to the
print head.
Base Station
[0239] The base station may contain an ultracompact embedded PC
type personal computer PC 104 from the supplier Advantech,
referenced PCM 4170, associated with 256 Mbytes of synchronous
dynamic random access memory (SDRAM), a mouse, a screen, and an
Internet connection, and also providing four USB extension
ports.
[0240] The PC is connected by respective USB ports to the
electronics of the print head, to the displacement detector
interface (EKM8022 mouse controller (Elan)), and it is also
connected to the electronics of the matrix sensor, and that is
connected to the screen, the mouse, and the keyboard.
[0241] The PC runs the software serving to warn the user when the
handpiece is moved in the wrong direction, to access data from the
matrix sensor, to analyze said data in order to extract recessed
points, i.e. points that are not in contact with the wall of the
matrix sensor, and to ignore zones that are very rich in recesses.
If an entire zone containing numerous points is considered as being
recessed, the processor unit does not interpret the zone as being
pores or wrinkles but interprets these measurements as faulty
relief measurement by the matrix sensor, e.g. because the handpiece
is poorly pressed against the skin. Under such circumstances, the
memory is left unchanged. Furthermore, the processor unit warns the
user about the poor placing.
[0242] The processor unit may retain recessed points other than
those ignored as mentioned above, so as to consider them
subsequently as "skin blemishes", such as pores or wrinkles.
[0243] The device may cause an image corresponding to the skin
blemishes detected in this way to appear on the screen.
[0244] The device may calculate an image corresponding to these
pores or wrinkles being filled in, where the recessed points under
consideration receive printing while the others do not receive
printing, and then display on the screen an image of the recesses
filled in as calculated in this way, possibly superposed on the
image of the skin blemish.
[0245] Given the way the handpiece moves over the skin, and relying
on two movement sensors and the known spacing between the matrix
sensor and the print head, the processor unit is capable of
determining the moment at which the image is to be printed by the
print head, line by line on the skin.
[0246] The processor unit may also be programmed to give the user a
free choice concerning the color to be applied to the pores or to
wrinkles. For this purpose, the interface may display a plurality
of colors and simulations on the screen.
[0247] The processor unit may be programmed to leave the user free
to select the color for printing as a function of the size of skin
blemishes, e.g.: a single color regardless of the number of pixels
occupied by a blemish, or in a variant a plurality of colors
associated respectively with blemishes of different sizes.
[0248] The processor unit may omit printing on blemishes that are
too small, e.g. occupying one or two pixels.
EXAMPLE 7
[0249] The same device is used as in Example 6, with the exception
that the ink in the print head is replaced by a dermatological
(i.e. non cosmetic) or care product, e.g. a myrorelaxing agent,
botox, a moisturizer, or PHA.
EXAMPLE 8
[0250] The same device may be used as in Example 6, except that the
ink in the print head is replaced by a photopolymerizable
composition, e.g. based on polyvinyl acetate (PVA) functionalized
by stylbazolium functions from the supplier Murakami.
[0251] At the end of treatment, the face is exposed to light, e.g.
UV A, at a density of 100 milliwatts per square centimeter
(mW/cm.sup.2) for 5 s, so as to cause the composition deposited on
the wrinkles to polymerize.
Temperature-Sensitive Detection System
[0252] The detection system may be sensitive to temperature, and
for example it may include an infrared temperature sensor.
EXAMPLE 9
Handpiece
[0253] An application system may be made that is identical to that
described with reference to FIG. 7.
[0254] A ring 410, e.g. made of PTFE, is fastened to the front in
order to provide contact with the skin, leaving a central hole for
passing the movable portion 86 of the print head, as shown in FIG.
12.
[0255] Two electrodes 415, e.g. platinum electrodes, each having a
surface area of 50 mm.sup.2, are stuck to the front face of the
ring 410.
[0256] These two electrodes 415 serve to determine the ring 410 is
in contact with the skin, by measuring conductivity.
[0257] A temperature detection module 505 from the supplier Dexter,
referenced "Infrared Temperature Module" and making use of the ST
60 thermopile from the same supplier is placed facing the skin. The
module has a response that is linear over a broad range of
wavelengths and it delivers a signal that is calibrated as a
function of temperature.
Base Station
[0258] As shown in FIG. 14, the base station may include two
adjustment buttons 510, each button 510 serving to increment or
decrement a register T.sub.delta, e.g. coded on 8 bits.
[0259] The device may include a button 301 for taking a reference
temperature.
[0260] The processor unit 14 reads the pulse-width modulated (PWM)
type calibrated signal delivered by the module 505, e.g. at a rate
of 100 Hz, and reads the conductivity signal coming from the
electrodes 415.
[0261] If conductivity is high, e.g. >1 siemens (S), then a
register coded on 8 bits, for example, and referred to as "contact"
is set to 1. Otherwise, the register is set to 0.
[0262] The processor unit 14 controls the application of the values
of three registers T.sub.delta, T.sub.reference, and T.sub.measured
which are displayed by the three displays 200.
[0263] This is performed, for example, via an ASCII-coded serial
link. The processor unit may cause a green indicator light to be
switched on if the contact register is at 1, and a red light if the
contact register is at 0.
[0264] When the operator presses on the reference-taking button
301, and if the contact register is at 1, then the processor unit
14 stores in the register T.sub.reference the value T.sub.measured,
e.g. coded on 16 bits.
[0265] When the operator does not press the button 301 and the
contact register is at 1, the processor unit 14 compares
T.sub.measured with the value of T.sub.reference.
[0266] If T.sub.measured>T.sub.reference+T.sub.delta, then the
processor unit 14 instructs printing with a pulse duration of 1/20
s, for example.
[0267] If T.sub.measured<T.sub.reference+T.sub.delta, then the
processor unit 14 does not instruct printing.
[0268] If the contact register is at 0, then the processor unit 14
prevents the reference temperature being taken and prevents
temperature being detected.
[0269] The processor unit 14 may also serve to adjust pulse
duration if the result of calculation indicates that printing is
necessary, e.g. it may select between two values such as 1/5 s and
1/20 s.
[0270] When switched on, the contact register is set to 0 and the
register T.sub.reference is set to 30, for example.
[0271] During printing, and thus while the movable portion is
advancing towards the skin, the temperature sensor may be
inactivated.
Antibacterial and Treatment Active Agent
[0272] The reservoir 100 is filled with a treatment composition,
e.g. containing 80% water and 20% glycerol, by weight, together
with a preservative system, formulated on the basis of an
antibacterial agent.
Operation
[0273] The base station is switched on. The memory 206 informs the
processor unit 14 of the values T.sub.reference, T.sub.delta. The
user may optionally adjust the value of T.sub.delta.
[0274] The user brings the handpiece up to the skin and may place
it whenever desired, however it is advantageous to place it in a
zone that is likely to present blemishes, such as the face or the
bust.
[0275] The user measures a temperature in a portion that appears
healthy. For this purpose, the user presses on the "take reference"
button 301. The temperature T.sub.measured is then displayed on the
front face of the base station, and the user releases the button
301.
[0276] The user may move the handpiece over the skin, observing the
red and green contact lights, and adjusting the amount of pressure
that is exerted so as to maintain contact.
[0277] As soon as the device detects a zone outside the limit
T.sub.reference+T.sub.delta, the handpiece deposits the care
product.
[0278] The user may change the care product and switch to
compositions associating a care product with makeup or comprising
makeup alone or a composition that contains a deodorant or an
antiperspirant.
[0279] The user may also change the value T.sub.delta, and this can
be done without it being necessary to restart the apparatus.
EXAMPLE 10
[0280] By way of example, the same device is used as in Example 9.
However in this example the calculation undertaken by the processor
unit is not T.sub.reference+T.sub.delta but
T.sub.reference-T.sub.delta.
[0281] In addition, it is when T.sub.measured is less than
T.sub.reference-T.sub.delta that printing is activated.
[0282] Any type of composition may be placed in the reservoir 100,
e.g. a composition including one or more compounds for activating
blood circulation, one or more temperature-generating compounds
(calcium salts), one or more irritant compounds (capsaicin), or one
or more peeling compounds, e.g. glycerol acid.
Detection System Responsive to at Least One Chemical or Niological
Species
[0283] The handpiece may include an invasive probe. The term
"invasive probe" is used to designate a probe that penetrates into
the skin, in general through a distance corresponding to the
epidermis (i.e. about one hundred micrometers).
[0284] The probe need penetrate into the skin only intermittently,
e.g. once every second, or when the handpiece is moved, e.g. once
every centimeter.
[0285] The probe may be arranged to measure pH, or moisture, or to
perform a chemical measurement such as oxygen content or glucose
content.
[0286] The probe may be coupled with a force measurement in order
to inform the apparatus about the hardness of the skin. By way of
example, this may be done by incorporating a force detector in the
mechanical part that holds the probe. When the user presses the
apparatus against the skin, the probe is caused to come into
contact with the skin. The skin begins by resisting penetration.
The force measured is relatively high. The fact that force is being
measured informs the user, e.g. by means of an indicator light,
that the probe has come into contact with the skin but that it has
not penetrated therein. Then, by continuing to apply pressure, the
user forces the probe to penetrate into the skin. This leads to a
sudden drop in the measured force. The force measurement then
informs the user that penetration has taken place, e.g. by lighting
an indicator light of a different color. The probe may then perform
its measurement and information may be sent, e.g. after a few
seconds, to the apparatus.
"Moving" Mode
[0287] The handpiece may be placed on the skin and moved gently
over the skin.
[0288] The device performs a first measurement using the invasive
probe, e.g. a measurement of hydration level. If the measurement
shows that the hydration level is low, the handpiece applies a
moisturizer over an area that is considerably larger than the zone
in which the measurement is made.
[0289] If the measurement shows that the hydration level is
satisfactory and standard, the handpiece does not apply any
composition.
[0290] When the user moves the handpiece, it takes another
measurement further along, e.g. a few millimeters further along.
Depending on the hydration level given by the measurement, the
handpiece continues to apply moisturizer or stops applying
moisturizer.
"Stationary" Mode
[0291] The handpiece is placed on a given zone.
[0292] The device takes a first measurement of the hydration level
using the invasive probe.
[0293] If the measurement shows that the hydration level is low,
the device applies a moisturizer over an area that is considerably
larger than the zone in which the measurement was performed.
[0294] If the measurement shows that the hydration level lies
within an acceptable range, the device does not apply
moisturizer.
[0295] A few tens of seconds later, the device takes another
measurement at the same location. Depending on the hydration level
given by the measurement, the device continues or ceases to apply
the moisturizer. The device need stop only when the moisturizer has
had its effect and the hydration level has reached a predefined
value.
[0296] The probe may also be used to inject an active agent,
whether in stationary mode or in moving handpiece mode.
EXAMPLE 11
Handpiece
[0297] It is possible to use an application system identical to
that described with reference to FIG. 7.
[0298] As shown in FIG. 13, a caterpillar may be formed, e.g.
having a length of four centimeters, made up of a strip 600 of
rubber put under tension by two wheels 605 that are secured to the
housing of the application system.
[0299] The strip 600 is placed on the front face of the apparatus,
facing the skin. The wheels 605 are free and the strip is free to
move relative to the handpiece when the user moves the
handpiece.
[0300] A needle 610 is fastened to the strip 600. By way of example
the needle 610 is a fine aluminum spike. The needle 610 is placed
so that it projects and can penetrate into the skin, e.g. to a
depth of 500 .mu.m.
[0301] The needle 610 passes through the strip of rubber and it is
connected to connectors 620 that are placed in parallel and
adhesively-bonded to the rubber strip, e.g. using aluminum film
connectors having a length of one centimeter and spaced apart by
two millimeters.
[0302] A pH minielectrode is installed in the hollow spike. The two
wires from the pH minielectrode are connected to the two connectors
620.
[0303] Two wipers 630 are placed between the two wheels 605 so that
they automatically make contact with the two connectors when the
needle goes past the wipers 630.
[0304] FIGS. 13A to 13C show how the caterpillar moves over the
skin, causing the needle 610 to be pushed into the top layers of
the skin, and then causing the wipers 630 to be put into connection
with the connectors 620 that are placed on the strip 600, thereby
enabling the pH minielectrode to be read.
[0305] Other needles including pH minielectrodes may be placed on
the strip on the same principle as that described above. By way of
example, the strip may have six needles with associated
minielectrodes.
[0306] The assembly comprising the strip and the wipers is placed
on the front face of the handpiece, e.g. being offset a little to
avoid hindering printing.
[0307] An operational amplifier connected to the converter 208
amplifies the signal from the pH minielectrodes.
Base Station
[0308] Three liquid crystal displays 200 receive the values from
three registers P.sub.limit, P.sub.action and P.sub.measured.
[0309] The front face of the base station may include adjustment
buttons enabling the registers P.sub.limit and .sub.action to be
incremented or decremented, which registers are coded on 8 bits,
for example.
[0310] The processor unit compares P.sub.measured with P.sub.limit
and P.sub.action.
[0311] If P.sub.measured<P.sub.action (surface too acid), the
processor unit 14 instructs printing, e.g. with a pulse having a
duration of 1/5 s.
[0312] If P.sub.measured<P.sub.limit, the processor unit 14
considers that the skin has a limit level of activity, and causes a
light present on the handpiece to be switched on, also instructing
printing, but with a pulse having a duration of 1/20 s, for
example.
[0313] During printing, pH-sensing may be inactivated.
[0314] Furthermore, a time lapse controlled by the processor unit,
e.g. a lapse of half a second, may be allowed between successive
print operations.
Operation
[0315] The reservoir 100 is filled with an aqueous composition
containing ammonium carbonate buffer with pH 8.2. The composition
also contains 0.3% by weight of carbomer.
[0316] The base station is switched on, with the memory informing
the processor unit about the values P.sub.limit and P.sub.action.
The values of these registers may optionally be adjusted.
[0317] The handpiece is brought up to the skin. The user may place
it in any desired location, but it is advantageous to place it in a
zone that is little or poorly hydrated, or that is dehydrated, e.g.
a zone that is naturally dry, such as the legs, for example, a zone
that has been dehydrated by treatment, or a zone that has been
exposed to low temperatures or to the sun, a zone that has been
subjected to the action of pollution, the cheeks, the arms, the
stomach, the mucous membranes such as the lips, for example, or the
hair.
[0318] When the handpiece does not read any signal coming from any
one of the six pH microelectrodes, the apparatus does not perform
any printing.
[0319] As soon as the device detects a zone beyond P.sub.limit, a
light is switched on indicating that the pH is coming close to the
limit and the handpiece begins to deposit the care product, with a
printing duration of 1/20 s.
[0320] Printing may continue in this mode for 2 seconds, unless
some other information comes to the base station in the
meanwhile.
[0321] As soon as the device detects a zone beyond P.sub.action,
the base station instructs the handpiece to perform printing, e.g.
with a duration 1/5 s, for depositing the care product.
[0322] Printing may continue in this mode for 3 seconds, unless
some other information reaches the stationary portion
meanwhile.
[0323] If the device detects a zone beyond P.sub.limit, the base
station instructs the handpiece not to perform printing.
[0324] The user may change the care product and switch to
compositions associating makeup with a care product, or comprising
makeup alone.
[0325] The user may also change the values of the registers
P.sub.limit and F.sub.action, and this can be done without any need
to restart the device.
EXAMPLE 12
[0326] Unlike Example 11, the user begins by placing an aqueous
solution of citrate buffer (pH 4.8) on the skin, e.g. one minute
beforehand.
Variants
Non-Invasive Chemical Detection Probes
[0327] pH measurements may be performed in contact with the
skin.
[0328] It is possible to measure the following gases: CO.sub.2, NO,
CO, NO.sub.2, for example, depending on whether it is desired to
deduce biological activity or the presence of pollution.
[0329] It may be desired to detect liquid compounds having a
boiling temperature close to ambient temperature, e.g. solvents and
residues of fragrances, endogenous odor molecules, or exogenous
odor molecules.
[0330] By way of example, it is possible to use detectors of the
kind used in artificial noses, such as semiconductor compounds that
are sensitive to the presence of certain volatile compounds.
[0331] It is possible to detect fatty acids, other fatty compounds,
to detect DNA, amino acids, and/or proteins, or salts.
EXAMPLE 13
[0332] Unlike Example 11, the strip 600 contains various different
probes, e.g. for measuring pH, for ensuring calcium content,
chlorine content, or sodium content.
Mechanical Detection System
[0333] It is possible to use at least one mechanical sensor, e.g.
to determine the force the skin opposes either to being pushed in,
to being rubbed, or to being turned.
[0334] By way of example, it is possible to use force sensors from
the supplier Honeywell.
[0335] It is also possible to use multipoint sensors. Such sensors
are in the form of a matrix of spikes. The electronics of the
sensor provides information concerning the pressure as received by
each spike. The spike may be spaced apart by less than one
millimeter. The sensors may be made up of several tens or several
hundreds of spikes.
[0336] The invention is not limited to the examples described. It
is possible within a single handpiece to combine a plurality of
detection systems of different types, such as those described
above, for example.
[0337] The term "comprising a" should be understood as being
synchronous with "comprising at least one".
* * * * *