U.S. patent application number 15/797600 was filed with the patent office on 2018-02-22 for method and apparatus for enhanced personal care.
The applicant listed for this patent is Mores, Inc.. Invention is credited to Ayman Salem.
Application Number | 20180052969 15/797600 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 53044774 |
Filed Date | 2018-02-22 |
United States Patent
Application |
20180052969 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Salem; Ayman |
February 22, 2018 |
Method and Apparatus for Enhanced Personal Care
Abstract
A design for enhancing a user's lifestyle and personal care is
provided, including a personal care display device comprising a
plurality of connection ports and a microphone, each connection
port configured to receive a hardware personal care module, each
hardware personal care module configured to interact with the
personal care display device to provide personal care functionality
facilitating personal care of a user, wherein personal care
comprises health care, and a remote central server device
arrangement. The personal care display device is configured to
receive spoken health care information from the user, transmit user
specific health care communications personalized to the user, and
receive user personal care communications personalized to the user
from the remote central server device arrangement.
Inventors: |
Salem; Ayman; (Burbank,
CA) |
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Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Mores, Inc. |
Burbank |
CA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
53044774 |
Appl. No.: |
15/797600 |
Filed: |
October 30, 2017 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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15687260 |
Aug 25, 2017 |
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15797600 |
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14080021 |
Nov 14, 2013 |
9747417 |
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15687260 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06F 19/3462 20130101;
G16H 40/67 20180101; G16H 40/63 20180101; G06F 19/3475 20130101;
G16H 50/20 20180101; G06F 19/00 20130101; G16H 20/10 20180101; G06F
19/3418 20130101; G16H 80/00 20180101; G16H 20/30 20180101; G16H
20/60 20180101; G06F 19/3456 20130101; G16H 10/60 20180101; G06F
19/3481 20130101 |
International
Class: |
G06F 19/00 20060101
G06F019/00 |
Claims
1. An apparatus, comprising: a personal care display device
comprising a plurality of connection ports and a microphone, each
connection port configured to receive a hardware personal care
module, each hardware personal care module configured to interact
with the personal care display device to provide personal care
functionality facilitating personal care of a user, wherein
personal care comprises health care; and a remote central server
device arrangement; wherein the personal care display device is
configured to receive spoken health care information from the user,
transmit user specific health care communications personalized to
the user, and receive user personal care communications
personalized to the user from the remote central server device
arrangement; wherein the personal care display device is configured
for the user to freely substitute selected and different hardware
personal care modules in the plurality of connection ports; wherein
at least one hardware personal care module interacts with the
personal care display device to assess a current health related
attribute of the user; wherein one hardware personal care module
comprises a health care module.
2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the personal care display
device comprises a computing device display that functions as a
reflective surface.
3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein at least one connection port
comprises a USB (Universal Serial Bus) connection port.
4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the personal care display
device is separately formed from a frame surrounding a television,
and the frame includes the plurality of connection ports.
5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the personal care display
device comprises a storage unit and communication components,
wherein the communication components communicate with the remote
central server device arrangement.
6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein health care comprises medical
care, and the health care module assesses cardiac attributes of the
user.
7. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a handheld unit
configured to interface with the personal care display device and
collect user health care data, wherein the handheld unit comprises
at least one connection port.
8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the personal care display
device is separately formed from a frame surrounding a
display/mirror, and the frame includes the plurality of connection
ports.
9. A method for facilitating personal care of a user, comprising:
receiving, at a remote central server device arrangement, user
personal care data personalized to the user transmitted by a user
personal care display device, wherein personal care comprises
health care, and wherein the user personal care data comprises
health care information spoken by the user to a microphone
associated with the user personal care device; determining at the
remote central server device arrangement a user personal care
recommendation specifically for the user based on the user personal
care data received; and transmitting the user personal care
recommendation specifically for the user from the remote central
server device to the user personal care display device, wherein the
user personal care recommendation comprises a health care
recommendation; wherein the user personal care display device
comprises a plurality of connection ports, each connection port
configured to receive a hardware personal care module, each
hardware personal care module configured to interact with the user
personal care display device to provide personal care functionality
facilitating personal care of the user; wherein one hardware
personal care module comprises a health care personal care module
used with the user personal care display device to facilitate
assessing user health care status and providing health care
information and recommendations specifically for the user to the
user.
10. The method of claim 9 wherein the remote central server device
arrangement comprises a plurality of computing devices.
11. The method of claim 9, wherein the user personal care data
received is collected using a hardware personal care module
connected to the user personal care display device.
12. The method of claim 9, wherein the user personal care data
received is collected using a handheld unit, wherein the method
further comprises transmitting the user personal care data from the
handheld unit to the user personal care display device.
13. The method of claim 9, wherein the user personal care display
device comprises a reflective surface.
14. The method of claim 9, wherein the personal care display device
comprises a television having a central screen and an outer frame,
the personal care display device configured with functional
hardware components.
15. A personal care display device, comprising: a display; and a
housing surrounding the display, the housing comprising a plurality
of connection ports configured to receive hardware personal care
modules, each hardware personal care module configured to interact
with the display to provide personal care functionality
facilitating personal care of a user; wherein the housing comprises
a microphone configured to receive a spoken expression from the
user, and further wherein the personal care device is configured to
employ at least one hardware personal care module, and based on the
spoken expression from the user and other available information,
determine a current physical attribute of the user and a personal
care recommendation specific to the user, and display the personal
care recommendation to the user using the display, wherein the
personal care recommendation is a health care recommendation;
wherein one hardware personal care module comprises a health care
module usable with the personal care display device to assess user
health care needs and provide health care information and
recommendations specifically for the user to the user.
16. The personal care display device of claim 15, wherein the
personal care display device comprises a television having a
central screen and an outer frame, the personal care display device
configured with functional hardware components.
17. The personal care display device of claim 15, wherein the
personal care display device collects user personal care data
received from a handheld unit.
18. The personal care display device of claim 15, wherein at least
one connection port comprises a USB (Universal Serial Bus)
connection port.
19. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the personal care display
device comprises: a two dimensional display; a three dimensional
display; or a holographic display.
20. The personal care display device of claim 15, wherein the
health care module assesses cardiac attributes of the user.
Description
[0001] The present application is a continuation of co-pending U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 15/687,260, entitled "Method and
Apparatus for Enhanced Personal Care," inventor Ayman Salem, filed
Aug. 25, 2017, which is a continuation of co-pending U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 14/080,021, entitled "Method and Apparatus for
Enhanced Personal Care," inventor Ayman Salem, filed Nov. 14, 2013,
the entirety of both of which are incorporated herein by
reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Field of the Invention
[0002] The present invention relates in general to personal care,
and more specifically enabling a user to monitor, assess, maintain
and receive information to improve personal care and lifestyle
attributes, including but not limited to user health, physical
appearance, fashion, fitness, cosmetics and wellness.
Description of the Related Art
[0003] People seek to improve or at least maintain their personal
care on a daily basis. Whether monitoring their own personal
health, appearance, fitness, or wellness, for example, people
purchase and use an array of products and services. In the area of
health care and maintenance alone, people may be taking a series of
medications, may need to be monitored on a regular basis for a
condition, may have an injury that needs to be evaluated for
progress, and so forth. Each of these wellness tasks requires a
different product or service. An individual may need to make a trip
to a physician, then to a pharmacist to obtain a prescription, may
need to purchase over-the-counter health care products, and may
require a long term care giver to provide necessary personal care.
At a later time, the individual may need to obtain further products
or services--sometimes as frequently as on a daily basis.
[0004] Other areas of personal care, such as cosmetics, wardrobe
and so forth, also require a series of products and/or services,
and in some instances recommendations or decisions, to carry out
and achieve a desired level of personal care. People have
previously needed to locate and then obtain all necessary personal
care products and services from a myriad of sources, typically
requiring traveling to multiple locations, making purchases from
several web sites, and/or generally spending a great deal of time
and effort to maintain their personal appearance and well-being. In
some instances, the desired product or service can be difficult or
impossible to obtain due to mass production constraints or other.
Therefore industry products are not personalized as such.
[0005] It would be highly beneficial if multiple aspects of
personal care could be obtained from a readily accessible system or
device, where such a system could provide personalized care
directed to the specific needs or desires of an individual
user.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] According to one aspect of the present design, there is
provided According to a further embodiment, there is provided an
apparatus comprising a personal care display device comprising a
plurality of connection ports and a microphone, each connection
port configured to receive a hardware personal care module, each
hardware personal care module configured to interact with the
personal care display device to provide personal care functionality
facilitating personal care of a user, wherein personal care
comprises health care, and a remote central server device
arrangement. The personal care display device is configured to
receive spoken health care information from the user, transmit user
specific health care communications personalized to the user, and
receive user personal care communications personalized to the user
from the remote central server device arrangement. The personal
care display device is configured for the user to freely substitute
selected and different hardware personal care modules in the
plurality of connection ports. At least one hardware personal care
module interacts with the personal care display device to assess a
current health related attribute of the user, and one hardware
personal care module comprises a health care module.
[0007] According to another aspect of the present design, there is
provided a method for facilitating personal care of a user,
comprising receiving, at a remote central server device
arrangement, user personal care data personalized to the user
transmitted by a user personal care display device, wherein
personal care comprises health care, and wherein the user personal
care data comprises health care information spoken by the user to a
microphone associated with the user personal care device,
determining at the remote central server device arrangement a user
personal care recommendation specifically for the user based on the
user personal care data received, and transmitting the user
personal care recommendation specifically for the user from the
remote central server device to the user personal care display
device, wherein the user personal care recommendation comprises a
health care recommendation. The user personal care display device
comprises a plurality of connection ports, each connection port
configured to receive a hardware personal care module, each
hardware personal care module configured to interact with the user
personal care display device to provide personal care functionality
facilitating personal care of the user. One hardware personal care
module comprises a health care personal care module used with the
user personal care display device to facilitate assessing user
health care status and providing health care information and
recommendations specifically for the user to the user.
[0008] According to a further aspect of the present design, there
is provided a personal care display device, comprising a display
and a housing surrounding the display, the housing comprising a
plurality of connection ports configured to receive hardware
personal care modules, each hardware personal care module
configured to interact with the display to provide personal care
functionality facilitating personal care of a user. The housing
comprises a microphone configured to receive a spoken expression
from the user, and further wherein the personal care device is
configured to employ at least one hardware personal care module,
and based on the spoken expression from the user and other
available information, determine a current physical attribute of
the user and a personal care recommendation specific to the user,
and display the personal care recommendation to the user using the
display, wherein the personal care recommendation is a health care
recommendation. One hardware personal care module comprises a
health care module usable with the personal care display device to
assess user health care needs and provide health care information
and recommendations specifically for the user to the user.
[0009] These and other advantages of the present invention will
become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following
detailed description of the invention and the accompanying
drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] For a more complete understanding of the present disclosure,
reference is now made to the following figures, wherein like
reference numbers refer to similar items throughout the
figures:
[0011] FIG. 1 is a general system overview of the present
design;
[0012] FIG. 2A illustrates a rectangular embodiment of one aspect
of the present design;
[0013] FIG. 2B illustrates an oval embodiment according to another
aspect of the present design;
[0014] FIG. 3 is a general representation of certain components
employed in the present design;
[0015] FIG. 4A illustrates a side view of a device similar to that
shown in FIG. 2;
[0016] FIG. 4B is a rear view of an embodiment of the device;
[0017] FIGS. 5A-5C illustrate apparatus including a set of separate
USB receptacles that may be provided as an alternative to or in
addition to the receptacles or slots provided on the device;
[0018] FIG. 6 illustrates an example of a magnification camera that
may be employed with or provided as a module;
[0019] FIG. 7 illustrates an example of a sensing bracelet that may
be employed with or provided as a module in accordance with the
present design;
[0020] FIG. 8 illustrates a tape measure that may be employed as or
in accordance with a module in the present design;
[0021] FIG. 9 is a reflective band or strap 901 that may be
employed in association with a module;
[0022] FIG. 10 shows a spirometer arrangement that may be employed
as part of the present design;
[0023] FIG. 11 illustrates a portable scale that may be used with
the present design;
[0024] FIG. 12 is a pill dispenser that may be employed with the
present design;
[0025] FIG. 13 shows a representative caliper that may be used with
the present design;
[0026] FIG. 14 illustrates a handheld unit that may be used with
the present design; and
[0027] FIG. 15 is a simple functional example/flow diagram of use
of a scale module.
[0028] The exemplification set out herein illustrates particular
embodiments, and such exemplification is not intended to be
construed as limiting in any manner.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0029] The following description and the drawings illustrate
specific embodiments sufficiently to enable those skilled in the
art to practice the system and method described. Other embodiments
may incorporate structural, logical, process and other changes.
Examples merely typify possible variations. Individual components
and functions are generally optional unless explicitly required,
and the sequence of operations may vary. Portions and features of
some embodiments may be included in or substituted for those of
others.
[0030] In general, the present invention includes personal care
system that employs modular hardware configured to offer personal
care information, products, and services directed to a specific
user. The present design may take the form of a device including a
mirror having processing and communication capability and
configured with a plurality of connection points, the connection
points allowing personal care modules to be connected to the
device. Additional functionality may be provided with the mirror in
a central or main hardware component. In this manner, an individual
can maintain a device at her residence or place of work or
elsewhere that can be configured to meet her personal care
needs.
[0031] The system may include a portable device configured to be
taken with the user, while traveling locally or long distance, and
connect with the base device such that the user may record desired
information and provide the information to the base location at a
later time.
[0032] Additionally, the present system may include a
communications network, which may be server or cloud based, wherein
the user can store personal care information, obtain personal care
information such as recommendations specific to the user, may
schedule and receive reminders, and so forth.
[0033] FIG. 1 is a general system overview of the present design.
From FIG. 1, network 100 includes a processing and storage site
101, also referred to as a remote device arrangement herein,
configured to communicate with and receive communications from
personal care devices 102a-h. Communication may be effectuated
between the processing and storage site 101 and the personal care
devices 102a-h in any manner known and available, including but not
limited to internet connectivity via wire, wireless (802.11a/b/n/g,
Wi fi), cellular, and or other communication means. While a single
processing and storage site 101 is shown, it is to be understood
that more than one such site may be employed and more than one such
site may carry out some of the functionality disclosed herein.
[0034] In general, information about an individual's personal care
may be obtained at a personal care device, e.g. personal care
device 102b, and this information may be communicated to processing
and storage site 101. Information about personal care generally
falls into five categories, but other categories may be employed or
provided, the five categories including health, fitness/wellness,
fashion, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. While personal care device
102b may offer such capabilities, a user may or may not employ all
capabilities. A user may simply wish to employ the present design
for health purposes. Information obtained may be manually entered
by the user or obtained using a set of readings or information
obtained at the device, and/or information may be provided to the
personal care device 102b from the processing and storage site. As
an example, blood pressure readings may be made by the user using
the personal care device, the blood pressure information may be
provided from the personal care device 102b to the processing and
storage site 101, and the processing and storage site 101 may
provide a recommendation back to the user, even something as
innocuous as "You have a slightly elevated blood pressure. The
following may be potential meal suggestions for the coming days."
As may be understood, any type of interaction between the user,
user device 102b, and processing and storage site 101 may be
employed as desirable, such as determining the user's body type and
recommending clothing for the user, determining skin tone and
making a recommendation for particular skin care and/or cosmetic
purchases, and so forth.
[0035] One embodiment of the present design is presented in FIG.
2A. The device 200 includes a central element 201, typically a
mirror that operates as a display screen as well. Such devices are
available from, for example, Ox-Home (ox-home.com) or Samsung, with
the Samsung product called the LED mirror TV. Edge element 202 may
be provided and made from any suitable material, and shown in FIG.
2A are cameras 203a-1, microphones 204a and 204b, speakers 205a-d,
and sensor, voice, or fingerprint reader 206. The sensor may be any
type of sensor (biometric, heat, or otherwise), and a voice
recognition component may be present, operating separately or using
microphones 204a and 204b together with voice recognition software.
Also shown in this view is an optional pill dispenser tray 207.
While a certain number of components are shown in FIG. 2A, it is to
be understood that any number of components may be employed and the
invention is not so limited.
[0036] The user may stand in front of device 200 and view her
reflection. She may verify her identity using fingerprint reader
206, where fingerprint reader 206 may connect to a processor as
discussed below and may be able to verify a user's identity. Device
200 may photograph or visually record the user using one or more of
cameras 203a-1. The user may speak words that may be received by
microphones 204a and 204b, and the device 200 may speak words or
provide audio information using speakers 205a-d.
[0037] Not shown in FIG. 2A is a series of connection slots in the
device, typically in the FIG. 2A embodiment positioned on the outer
edges of the device. The connection slots enable the user to
connect modules having specialized functionality to the device for
the purpose of facilitating personal care. A user can plug one or
more modules into the device and can obtain desired functionality
at a given point in time, such as a module to determine blood
pressure, to determine weight (e.g. a connection to a scale),
determine glucose level, and/or to track physical activity, among
other functions. One example of connection slots in the device is a
USB (Universal Serial Bus) connection, but any type of connectivity
may be provided. For example, the device 200 may include a receiver
or transceiver while a remote device or module may include a
transmitter or transceiver, or the device 200 may include a
connection slot for a receiver or transceiver, with connectivity to
the device 200 provided via a slot, such as a USB slot.
[0038] Device 200 may provide wireless or wired connectivity,
including reception of wireless signals or transmission of wireless
signals, and may offer any other type of connectivity to a remote
computing device as may be known in the art.
[0039] FIG. 2B illustrates an alternate embodiment of the device.
The device 250 in the FIG. 2B embodiment is oval in shape, again
with a central screen 251 that is both a mirror and a display. Edge
element 252 may be provided and made from any suitable material,
and cameras 253a-f, microphones 254a and 254b, speakers 255a-d,
sensor, voice, or fingerprint reader 256 are provided. Also shown
in this embodiment are two modules 257 and 258, each providing
functionality as described herein. While a generally rectangular
and a generally oval shape device is shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, any
form or type of device that provides the functionality described
may be provided.
[0040] While shown as an integrated device in FIGS. 2A and 2B, it
is to be understood that the present design may also include a
conversion kit that may employ a plasma or LCD/LED television,
including an outer frame that will be able to attach to the central
screen and may include cameras, USB outlets and hardware such as a
processor, storage, internet connectivity, and/or other pertinent
functional components. A program may be provided that allows the
user's television to operate in the manner discussed herein.
Further, the present device may be incorporated into a piece of
furniture, or into a wall, or into any type of other apparatus,
either using the full device such as the embodiments shown in FIGS.
2A and 2B or as the aforementioned kit or part of the kit. The
device may in various instances be mounted to a wall using mounting
hardware known in the art.
[0041] A general view of the electronics employed in the present
design is shown in FIG. 3. From FIG. 3, device 200 includes a
processor 301 connected to a storage device, such as a memory
device 302, and is connected to display 201. The device may include
wired or wireless connectivity, shown as element 303. Wireless
signals may be transmitted from and received by the device and
provided to the processor 301. Connections are provided to multiple
connection slots, here shown as connection slots 304a-g. Any number
of connection slots may be provided, and these may be USB slots or
any type of connection to modules available in the art.
[0042] The device, such as device 200 or 250, may be open source in
the sense that third parties may manufacture modules or module
components that may interface with the device. Standards may be
provided such that modules may be produced and desired
functionality provided in conjunction with the device and its
component parts. Further, the modules may be employed with devices
already available, such as a blood pressure module used with an
existing blood pressure cuff or other blood pressure evaluation
apparatus.
[0043] FIG. 4A illustrates a side view of a device similar to that
shown in FIG. 2A, where device 400 includes various openings or
ports, such as USB ports, 402a-e. FIG. 4B is a rear view of an
embodiment of the device 450, including an electrical connector 451
and a pill dispenser 452. The pill dispenser may be a removable
feature and may be constructed to accept pills at a given time,
with information provided to the processor as to how many and what
type pills have been provided, and pills may be commanded to be
dispensed by the processor, such as one pill per day if one pill
per day is required. A handle 453 is provided such that the owner
or some other individual can remove the dispenser or pull the
dispenser out for purposes of restocking the dispenser. A tray 454
is provided such that pills or medications dispensed can be
provided toward the front of the device and are easily accessible
to the user.
[0044] FIGS. 5A-5C illustrate apparatus including a set of separate
USB receptacles that may be provided as an alternative to or in
addition to the receptacles or slots provided on the device. The
apparatus 501 of FIG. 5A, and the other apparatus 502 and 503 shown
in FIGS. 5B and C, may be separate from the device and/or may
connect to the device via wired or wireless communication.
Apparatus 501 of FIG. 5A includes four ports or slots, apparatus
502 of FIG. 5B includes eight ports or slots, while apparatus 503
of FIG. 5C may include twelve ports or slots. Processing
functionality may be provided in apparatus 501, 502, or 503, and
the user may insert functional modules into the slots provided.
Based on the module inserted, data may be collected, or data may be
collected and transmitted to the device, such as device 200 in FIG.
2, for processing and/or further processing. As shown in bottom
view 505 of FIG. 5A, a slot 504 may be provided for powering
apparatus 501. The separate handheld unit described below may
include port arrangements similar to those illustrated in FIGS. 5A
to 5C, and a handle 505 or other carrying feature may be provided
with the apparatus.
[0045] As may be appreciated, any number of functional personal
care modules may be provided. As an example, devices to measure
pulse rate, blood pressure, body temperature, and so forth may be
provided, each with connectivity back to the device, such as device
200. FIG. 6 illustrates an example of a magnification camera 600
that may be provided for any number of uses, including but not
limited to examining skin regions, oral examinations, and so forth.
Magnification camera 600 includes an open area 601, a set of
lights, such as LED (light emitting diode) lights 602 around the
periphery of the interior of the magnification camera, and
photographic element 603. The bottom view illustrates a port
connection 604, such as a USB connection.
[0046] The device may be provided with a module or modules having
an ability to read a barcode, including but not limited to a camera
such as magnification camera 600. Any type of barcode or QR code or
other code known in the art may be employed and may be read. Such
scanning functionality enables the device to perform a variety of
functions, including but not limited to reading prescription
bottles, reading medical products, reading clothing tags and
labels, reading cosmetics, reading containers of vitamins, and so
forth.
[0047] FIG. 7 illustrates an example of a sensing bracelet 700 that
may be employed with a module in accordance with the present
design. Sensing may be provided for pulse, temperature, and/or
other pertinent measurements related to the individual. As an
example, the sensing bracelet 700 may include lockable components
such as teeth that enable resizing of the sensing bracelet 700.
Sensing bracelet may also include a reflective coating or other
marker enabling the device to sense the position of the bracelet
and hence the user's arm. Such sensing capability may enhance the
ability of the device to determine exercise performance and other
pertinent information. FIG. 8 illustrates a tape measure 800
including a static reflective bead 801, an adjustable reflective
bead 802, and a reflective position stop 803, enabling the
measurement of anything, including but not limited to body parts,
clothing, hair, separation of feet, and so forth. While FIGS. 7 and
8 do not include connections to modules or the main device, it is
understood that such components may either be separate or may be
connected by wire, or wirelessly (Bluetooth, etc.) to the device or
a module as appropriate. In certain instances, minimal or no
connection may be provided, such as no physical connection but an
ability for the device, via microphone, camera, etc., to determine
position of particular components. In FIG. 8, for example, tape
measure 800 may not be connected by wire or wirelessly to a module
or the device, but the device may employ a camera to determine
positions of the static reflective bead 801, adjustable reflective
bead 802, and/or reflective stop point 803 and use the measurement
to determine the size of a desired object or objects.
[0048] FIG. 9 illustrates a reflective band or strap 901 that may
be used to measure head parameters, including temperature, EEG,
sweat, and so forth, and may include massage beads. Reflective
measuring markers, such as lines or points, may be provided. FIG.
10 illustrates a spirometer 1000, mouthpiece 1001, and a bottle or
container 1002 marked with measurement markings, typically
reflective, and including a measurement ball 1003, also typically
reflective. FIG. 11 illustrates a portable scale 1100, employed to
weigh applicable items. FIG. 12 illustrates a pill dispenser 1200,
including a locked compartment 1201 for controlled substances,
having programmable dispensing windows 1202a-g configured to
control disbursement of pills, a tray or holder 1203, manual pill
dispensing buttons 1204, and a fingerprint security reader 1205.
The pill dispenser 1201 may be removed from the device and brought
to a qualified individual, such as a pharmacist or pharmacist
assistant, who can provide pills and/or controlled substances for
use by the user. Sufficient security is provided, such as using
fingerprint security reader 1205 or other device (sensor, voice
recognition, etc.) and manual pill dispensing buttons 1204 and the
programmable dispensing windows, where ten such programmable
dispensing windows are shown in FIG. 12 and programmable dispensing
windows 1202a and 12021 are identified. In this arrangement, the
user and only the user or an individual identified as responsible
for the user can obtain the necessary pills and/or medications.
While shown as a pill dispenser, other forms may be taken to
dispense bottles, a door that can be opened and closed with sensing
provided, and/or other appropriate containment and disbursement
hardware. Pill dispensing may entail the device reading a barcode
label of the pills being inserted into pill dispenser 1200, and the
device may receive and/or provide pill count, dosage, warnings and
related indications.
[0049] FIG. 13 illustrates a representative caliper 1300, including
reflective tips 1301a and 1301b and telescopic arms 1302a and 1302b
meeting at jointed element 1303. An alternative caliper is shown as
caliper 1304. Reflective points may be provided.
[0050] FIG. 14 illustrates a handheld unit 1400. Handheld unit may
be carried by the user or other appropriate person for various
purposes, including but not limited to collecting data at a remote
location, such as a gym, and/or transferring data to a remote
location, such as a third party's computing device. Processing
functionality is typically offered in the handheld unit 1400, and
the handheld unit 1400 typically takes the form of a smartphone or
other appropriate handheld device. As shown in FIG. 14, handheld
unit 1400 includes a microphone or microphones 1401a and 1401b, a
thermal camera 1402, a 3D camera 1403, and a biometric camera 1404,
screen 1405 which may or may not be a mirror screen as with the
device, and speakers 1406a and 1406b. Screen 1405 may be a touch
screen or may be used as a sensor. On the back of the handheld unit
1400 may be provided a stand 1407. A sensor (not shown) similar to
the sensor on the device may be provided for authentication
purposes (fingerprint, voice, biometric, etc.), or the screen 1405
may be used as a sensor for authentication purposes.
[0051] Not shown is the ability of the handheld unit 1400 to
connect wirelessly or by wire to either the Internet, a cellular
service, or other communication service, and the functionality
provided may include the ability to collect user data and report
the user data to the device and/or obtain user data from the device
and/or a remote server or remote arrangement and convey the
information to the user or provide the information to a third
party. Data may be collected and downloaded at a later time to the
device when within range of or communicatively connected to the
device, such as device 200. Certain module connectivity may be
provided such as via a port or connection.
[0052] The handheld unit 1400 may be incorporated into an existing
device, such as an automobile part (armrest, headrest, dashboard,
console, etc.) or airplane part (armrest, headrest, etc.) or any
other type of device. The handheld unit 1400 may be incorporated
into devices such as gym bags, purses, clothing (coats, etc.), or
even pieces of furniture or other apparatus.
[0053] Additionally, but not shown in the foregoing illustrations,
a keyboard, either hardware or software, may be provided with the
device, such as device 200, or with the handheld unit 1400 such
that the user may enter information, request processing, request
uploading or downloading of information, and so forth.
[0054] Modules provided may include one or more of the following
and/or any other combination of devices and/or functionality
generally directed to personal care. Modules may include 3D
camera-user recognition, recognition of the user using a three
dimensional camera or multiple cameras (3D, planar, or
holographic), enabling creation of an avatar or virtual avatar of
the user, a thermal camera module configured to detect body heat of
user, as well as user movements and health related temperatures, a
biometric camera module, a scale similar to that shown in FIG. 11
to determine weight, fat, visceral fat, water and muscle content of
user, and a heart monitor module configured to determine and
provide the heart rate and ECG of the user, track activity of the
user as well as changes in heart rate during exercise and/or for
the purpose of providing medical alerts. Other modules may include
a glucose meter to take blood sugar readings and track blood sugar
of the user and may be employed with a medical alert, an oximeter
or oximeters that monitors oxygen levels of the user, also possibly
used in conjunction with a medical alert, and a blood pressure
module that takes blood pressure readings and tracks user blood
pressure and may be used with a medical alert. In the present
design, connectivity to the device, such as device 200 is provided,
and the modules may take any form, such as a small electronic
component connected by wire or wirelessly or by any other
functional connection to a device, such as in the case of a blood
pressure monitor to a blood pressure cuff and inflation device,
together with a sensor that senses the blood pressure once the cuff
is inflated to the required level.
[0055] Medical alert and home alert capabilities may be provided as
the device may listen for trigger words as "HELP" or "911." The
device may also provide or be connected to a portable panic
button.
[0056] Functionality and modules provided may also include retinae
scanners enabling the identification of the user as well as
monitoring eye health and changes, and a finger print reader or
readers usable as a security feature and providing temperate
reading and other health screening tests.
[0057] Modules may take any form, but as an example, they may be
the approximate size of a modern car key module and may have a
lithium or other appropriate battery in addition to the USB
connectivity for both charging and data transmission purposes.
[0058] During operation, the present design may employ the video
screen of the device and/or the portable unit to display graphical
information, alerts, data collected from the modules and/or related
devices and may provide information in the form of reminders or
even commercials. The device may employ infrared reflectography
using 3D laser scanning to create 3D topographical maps of
different body parts (face, muscles, breast, feet, hands, teeth,
and so forth) using either reflected infrared or lasers of
different strengths. Different readings and different algorithms
can be employed for different parts of the body, e.g. bumps and
lumps on the skin surface, different angles of inclination, joint
range of movement, and so forth.
[0059] Modules may be manually or automatically updated the user
may choose, via the device, combinations of inputs into the
modules. The device may provide face recognition capabilities and
may be used to recognize third parties (family members, caregivers,
pets) and may potentially be employed to sense intruders. The
device may take on the attributes and functionality of a computing
and/or communication device and may be placed in a sleep mode and
awakened through voice activation or other audible communication,
e.g. finger snap, clap, or even a button. The device can employ the
cameras provided to track eye movement and/or focus on a certain
part of the body, and may enlarge the body part or move it through
certain ranges of motion. In the fashion area, a user may try on a
piece of clothing and the screen of the device may ask the user to
turn around and may show the user how the back of the garment
appears. In the cosmetics area, cameras may record multiple
versions of the same general skin area when the user employs
different cosmetics on the area for the purpose of allowing the
user to compare and contrast different cosmetics.
[0060] The device typically operates using an open platform that
integrates data input and reception in conjunction with
applications specifically designed for the device. When using the
handheld unit 1400, the user may have available a portable
accessory to carry one or more modules, such as a glucometer module
if eating or a fitness module (measuring heart rate, movement,
etc.) if going to the gym.
[0061] In operation, user interaction with the device and/or
modules may entail the collection of data that may be retained at
the device, with data provided from modules to the device via WiFi,
Bluetooth, or through a USB connection or by any other means known
in the art. The processor at the device may process the data using
device formulas and/or applications and may format the data into
graphs, charts, diagrams, virtual assistants and other forms to be
displayed to the user via, for example, the device (2D, 3D, or
holographic) screen. The data and/or information may be controlled
by the user and may be sent from the device, such as device 200, to
a remote location, i.e. a virtual "cloud," where the information
may be collected, analyzed, and/or stored. Once transmitted to the
remote devices, the user information may be maintained, analyzed,
and specific user recommendations or information may be transmitted
back to the user. As currently configured, varying levels of
service may be provided. As one example, a gold/silver/bronze level
of service may be provided, wherein bronze is simply maintaining
data at a remote site, silver is analyzing data and providing
recommendations, and gold is a concierge type service where the
user may be provided contact with available personnel (physicians,
pharmacists, personal shoppers, cosmetics specialists,
optometrists, dentists, etc.) and particular needs will be
addressed. Different or alternate levels of service may be
provided.
[0062] As may be appreciated, virtually any type of information may
be collected and/or provided using the device/module arrangement
provided herein. The ability for the user to indicate specific
needs and desires via a keyboard and possibly a mouse, and for the
device to display information and act as a mirror enables a
virtually unlimited range of functions. A particular user may wish
to receive clothing recommendations, and may have her skin tone and
hair color determined, and clothing color recommendations provided.
Body type may be determined, and age entered, and age appropriate
wardrobe selections may be provided based on an analysis provided
from the remote location. Another user may have a blood sugar
issue, and his blood sugar may be monitored and tracked, and based
on his history and desires, recommendations as to what to eat
and/or when to eat may be provided to the device and/or to the
handheld unit 1400. Another user may want to monitor stock quotes
and baseball scores in addition to tracking his progress on a
weight loss program. While providing stock quotes and baseball
scores is not strictly a personal care function, the present design
may offer any type of functionality offered by a computing device
and/or tablet and/or smartphone. Thus the user may be exercising
with the handheld unit 1400 tracking his progress, i.e. time spent
exercising on a treadmill, while the device may display stock
quotes or baseball scores. At the end of the user's workout, he may
weigh himself using the scale module and may receive meal
recommendations and/or a graph of his exercise progress or weight
via the device. Thus single or multiple functions and
determinations may be provided or made based on functions,
applications, and computations available, as well as the needs and
desires of the user, in addition to the functionality provided at
the remote device arrangement.
[0063] A simple functional example of use of a scale module is
presented in FIG. 15. From FIG. 15, the device, and more
specifically the cameras on the device or the fingerprint reader or
other device component, detects presence of the user (e.g. pressing
a key on a connected keyboard) at point 1501. At point 1502, the
device, such as device 200, is activated and may come out of a
sleep or hibernation state as appropriate. At point 1503, the user
may ask for an action from the device, in this case checking the
weight of a desired item using a scale. The device determines
whether the appropriate module is connected or available, here the
portable scale module. If not, the device prompts the user to
connect the module to the device, and the scale module
functionality is initiated as shown in point 1504. Weight
information may be provided on the screen of the device, and
specific information may be provided--commercials, recommendations,
graphs of weight readings over time, most recent weight, and/or
other information.
[0064] At point 1505, the user weighs the desired item, and the
resultant weight is provided to the device, and more specifically
the processor in the device. The screen of the device may display
current weight and tracked weight, either graphically or
numerically. At point 1506, which is optional, the device, such as
device 200, may transmit the information to a remote device
arrangement for further processing, such as determining
recommendations for a man the user's age and in the user's
situation. At point 1507, the remote device arrangement may send
user specific information back to the device, such as device 200,
for review and consideration by the user. Emails, text messages,
phone messages, and/or other user selected communication methods
may be employed to inform the user of determinations made at the
remote device arrangement. Certain information may be provided from
the remote device arrangement to the device to enhance operation,
such as locally storing recommendations for the particular user
determined at the remote device arrangement. The device may at that
point return to a hibernate or sleep mode or may continue operation
as desired.
[0065] Functions may vary and may depend on what is required, and
as may be appreciated, any list of functions may be changed,
improved, reduced, or otherwise altered depending on a variety of
factors, including but not limited to popularity of the functions,
needs and desires expressed by users, use patterns, costs
associated with apps and functions, and so forth. Certain functions
may be provided either locally, i.e. at the device, or remotely,
i.e. at the remote device arrangement, or a combination of both. In
general, the system, including the device and remote device
arrangement, receive information and queries and respond
appropriately for personal care issues that arise.
[0066] Examples of the determinations made and functions provided
are as follows. In the area of health, lung health may be
maintained and monitored, and the device may determine respiratory
rate (RR), CO.sub.2 level, lung volume, pulse oximetry, breathing
characteristics, jugular vein distension (JVD), pitting edema,
and/or body pH level. The device may respond with a chart including
a degree of hypoxia, a graph with the user's lung volume as
compared to users of similar age and sex, and a pitting edema
score. In the area of heart health, the device may collect
pulse/heart rate, blood pressure, heart rhythm, and EKG values with
appropriate modules. The device may determine and/or report a
graph, raw data, and or percentile data, as well as
recommendations. In the area of nose and sinus health, the system,
including the device, handheld unit, appropriate modules, and/or
remote device arrangement, may analyze the nose for deviations in
shape and/or color, flaring, discharge, and nasal patency. The
system may then provide raw data, a digital model of the nose
and/or sinus, and provide a percentile, score, and/or chart. In the
field of eye health, the system may assess or determine sclera
color, visual acuity, peripheral vision, analyze the pupil, iris,
sclera, and so forth, determine eye pressure, redness or dryness,
and eyelash evenness, and the system may provide a digital model of
the eye, a scoring of quantities such as peripheral vision, raw
data, percentile values, a chart, and a chart or graph.
[0067] Many, if not all, of the health related evaluations may
result in a combination of a score or scores, raw data, percentile,
and a chart or graph of the health of the particular site. It is to
be understood that these and other relevant information
(recommendations, warnings, pictures, etc.) may be determined and
provided as appropriate, but that all such determinations may be
made and provided when assessing health parameters.
[0068] In the area of ear health, the system, again including the
device, handheld unit, appropriate modules, and/or remote device
arrangement, may assess the internal ear, including the external,
middle, and/or inner ear, analyze the external ear (auricle and
pinna), determine degree of hearing loss, and perform a bone
conduction evaluation (Weber/Rinne). Dental or oral care health may
include an assessment of lips, inner and buccal mucosa, tongue,
mouth floor, teeth and gums, hard and soft palate, salivary glands,
and tonsils. Many of the assessments discussed may be made using a
camera or recording device, but others may require modules
specially made for the task. Digestive health may be assessed using
food intake, stool analysis, BMI (body mass index), and weight.
Liver health may be assessed using skin color, sclera color,
ammonia levels in urine, level of consciousness, abdominal
distension, weight, total body water, skin irritation, activity
level, and/or stool color. General hormone balance may be assessed
according to a hormonal profile, activity level, weight gain, EKG,
heart rate, mood, level of anxiety, headaches, and/or sleep
pattern. Kidney health may be assessed according to daily urine
output, blood pressure, glucose level, and/or degree of edema.
Muscle health may be assessed according to strength, tone, size,
symmetry, fasciculations, tremors, arm/leg circumference, and
activity tolerance.
[0069] In the present design, the user may be monitored using a
module or the user may be queried directly or may offer the
information requested. For example, the user may be queried as to
"have you experienced any muscular tremors in the last week" and
she may respond "no." Alternately, the user may be asked "what has
been your activity level in the last day?" and may provide the user
with options (none, mild, moderate, extensive, or quantities, such
as ran for 20 minutes). Various options regarding obtaining the
necessary information, including the necessary health information,
may be provided. The user does not need to provide the
information--the information may be provided by a third party
(caregiver, spouse, etc.)
[0070] Nail health may also be assessed, analyzing convex
curvature, i.e. the angle between the nail and the nail bed, and in
addition to the other reports and/or information provided to the
user, he may receive a graph of a degree of clubbing (normal,
early, or late), based on nail bed shape and angle. Testicular
health may be assessed according to a pain scale, new lumps,
heaviness in scrotum region, and/or testicular swelling. Obstetric
health maybe assessed--weight, heart rate, blood pressure, portable
ultrasound results, fetal heart rate assessment and analysis, and
food intake, for example. Bone health may be assessed according to
bone density, calcium level, activity level, pain scale, swelling,
nutritional intake, and a bone densitometer score. Mental health
may be determined by assessing speech recognition, level of
consciousness (LOC), weakness on one side, blood pressure, visual
changes, and/or NIH score. Ovulation health may be assessed by
determining a surge in Luteinizing Hormone (LH) urine, analyzing
cervical mucus consistency and/or basal body temperature (BBT). In
addition to the other health information provided (raw data,
graphs, charts, etc., ovulation results may include a digital
calendar or listing of best ovulation times.
[0071] Spine health may be assessed according to structures or
deformities, warmth, swelling, range of motion (ROM), presence of
scoliosis, and gait. Joint health may be assessed by evaluating
warmth to the area, ROM, swelling, presence of nodules, and/or
gait. Skin health may be assessed according to skin turgor, color,
skin breakdown, and degree of edema. Hair health may be assessed
according to hair distribution, hair density, color, moisture
content, dryness, texture, and presence of infection and/or
infestation. Breast health may be determined based on swelling
around the breast and armpit, pain level, changes to nipple,
discharge, signs of lumps, and/or menstrual cycle issues.
Information provided relative to breast health may additionally
include a video showing a proper breast exam, and a digital model
of the breast of the user or a hypothetical breast, again for
examination purposes.
[0072] Foot health may be determined by collecting signs of
infection, color, hair distribution, skin integrity, and degree of
pitting or edema. In addition to the other reporting data, the
system may provide a digital model of feet or the lower
extremities. A general collection of parameters for the user may
occur, including but not limited to collecting heart rate (HR),
temperature (T), basal body temperature (BBT), respiratory rate
(RR), SaO2, pulse oximetry, CO2, systolic blood pressure (SBP),
diastolic blood pressure (DBP), urine chemistry, dry blood work,
joint ROM, spine flexibility, muscle strength, BMI, total body
water (as a percentage of body weight) in relation to age and sex,
electrocardiogram (EKG), lung capacity (TV, TLC, VC, FRC, RV),
height and weight, and body pH level. These and other pertinent
values may be collected and reported and/or continuously
tracked.
[0073] In the area of fitness and wellness, different module
specific interactions may occur where data is received by the
system (device, handheld unit, remote device arrangement,
module(s)) and certain information assessed and provided. In the
area of fitness, the system may collect or receive user goals,
weight loss values (current or desired), general fitness,
preparation for an athletic event, muscle building, and
rehabilitation from injury. Output may include an individualized
fitness program as well as graphs and charts and recommendations.
In the area of body building, height, weight, neck, chest, upper
arm, waist, hips, and any other relevant area may be measured, and
information about body fat provided as well as changes in body
measurements. For sweat, the device may be provided with a module
that analyzes user sweat and provides information on total free
amino acids, ammonia, protein concentrations, and nitrogen balance
of the user, detects a negative nitrogen balance, gives dietary
recommendations, recommends post workout recovery meals, and
recommends a dietary and supplement plan. For workout performance,
the system, and possibly a module in the system, analyzes body
mechanics during exercise by measuring weight distribution,
relative angles at joints during exercise or body heat via thermal
infrared camera. The device provides corrective user feedback on
proper body mechanics during exercise. In the area of nutrition,
the user may input daily food intake via picture, barcode scanner,
or may select items consumed from a pull-down menu. Also provided
or calculated are total calories, protein, carbohydrates, fat, and
fiber. The system may recommend dietary changes toward fitness
goals and may provide charts and graphs.
[0074] In the area of exercise, the system may collect or receive
user submitted photos of gym equipment (at home or in gym), may
enable interaction with an Al Personal Trainer, where the user
communicates in real time with the Al Personal Trainer, time
between sets, number of reps and weight lifted, body posture via
angle of shoulders to waist and feet, and the system may recognize
available equipment and build an exercise program. A trainer may
observe the user while completing exercises and give real time
feedback about technique. The system may provide motivational
instruction. Recommendations by the Al Personal Trainer may
optimize user exercise output. Physical health at work may be
assessed by calculating angle of the body while seated and doing
work, assuming the device or handheld unit is available at a
representative workplace. The system may also calculate height of
desk, chair, keyboard, and mouse. The system may recommend
corrective body posture and ergonomic corrections to the work
station. Physical health in the case of injury may be assessed,
wherein a provider or the user or other appropriate individual may
input the user's injury or injuries. The device may then create an
exercise regimen based on the user's needs and specific injury.
[0075] In the wellness area of sleep architecture, the system may
measure room temperature, amount of room light, noise, track user
sleep/wake cycle, and the amount of movement during sleep. The
system may recommend changes to sleep architecture. Tracks changes
and saves users optimum sleep requirements. The system may also
address menses, determining date of first day of the menstrual
cycle, length of bleeding, bleeding volume, daily temperature, and
may provide recommended dietary changes.
[0076] With respect to fashion, the system may assess body shape
measurements, i.e. biometric points, body shape, and may measure
four separate points--shoulders and hips, in the form of an "X."
The system, including but not limited to the remote device
arrangement, may provide recommendations on clothing style and cut,
perform "body blocking," and provide a "virtual 3D mannequin" of
the user based on calculations. The user may be allowed to "try on"
various styles/cuts/colors of clothing on the virtual mannequin.
Based on mannequin sizes, retailers will have better information on
the user's particular clothing needs and wants. The system may also
assess secondary body measurements, determining height, weight,
BMI, arm length, arm circumference, thigh circumference, torso
length (long, short, average), breast size, shoe size/width. From
these secondary body measurements, the system may determine
detailed body composition, make specific suggestions as to
clothing, styles, and accessories through the device and available
from retailers, and creation of a "virtual mannequin" can increase
details known about the user's body image to both the user and a
retailer. The system may also determine body size changes,
assessing minor and major changes in weight and body changes due to
pregnancy, and providing revisions or potential revisions to style,
size, color, and cut of clothing, as well as suggestions.
[0077] The system may also assess user demographic information,
such as age, race, geographic location, profession, income,
education, marital status, and number of children. From this, the
system can determine a presentation specifically tailored to the
user, determine style suggestions, price points, and clothing
styles relating to seasons, temperatures, and precipitation, and
allows retailers to focus on a specific consumer profile. The
system may additionally determine clothing wear, possibly employing
a sensor in user clothing, to determine date of wear, number of
wearings, and frequency of wearings.
[0078] With respect to cosmetics, the system may assess tone and
pigmentation by determining skin undertone based on the color of
the major vein around the wrist and by blue, yellow, red content
against a white background. Results determined may include a 3D
graph, a personal color wheel for hair, a personal color wheel for
make-up, prescription skin care recommendations, over-the-counter
skin care recommendations, peel recommendation, laser resurfacing
options, and continuous updates and recommendations. Skin category
may be assessed, including determining consumer inputs, oil content
of skin, and reflexive skin properties, and providing a graph of
skin, oily to dry, recommended moisturizing and cleansing creams.
The system may also evaluate pores, determining distribution and
spread measured by number per square centimeter and measure color
and size of pores. From this information, the system may provide
information including a graph, chart, updates and recommendations,
microdermabrasion, chemical peels, facial cleansers, and
creams.
[0079] Acne may be assessed according to distribution and spread
measured by number per square centimeter, measurement of color and
size of pores, acne location via a topographical map of the user's
face, depth and height, and cystic versus black head. Information
provided and reported may include a graph, chart, topography,
updates and recommendations, microdermabrasion, chemical peels,
facial cleansers, creams, laser resurfacing, and information
regarding or from a dermatologist. Scars may be assessed based on
discoloration, size, location, depth, and height. Again, based on
this, the system may recommend or provide a graph, chart,
topography, updates and recommendations, microdermabrasion,
chemical peels, facial cleansers, creams, laser resurfacing, and
information regarding or from a dermatologist. Skin elasticity may
be assessed based on skin turgor, muscle and skin laxity, and
nasolabial fold measurement. The user may be provided with a graph,
topography, charts, updates and recommendations related to skin
elasticity, firming products, and/or laser tightening methods.
[0080] Wrinkles may be assessed based on measurements of crow's
feet around the eye, length, depth and quantity of wrinkles in
particular regions, frown lines, forehead wrinkles, wrinkles around
the mouth, wherein all wrinkles may be assessed based on wrinkles
per square inch. The system may determine and provide a graph,
chart, topography, updates and recommendations, cosmetic grade skin
care, medical grade skin care, Botox treatments, fillers, chemical
peels, and/or specialized laser procedures. As may be appreciated,
more severe skin issues may call for added recommendations,
procedures, products, and/or treatments.
[0081] Facial hair may also be addressed by determining follicles
per square inch, coarseness, length, diameter, color, and/or
location, and the system may provide graphs, charts, updates, and
recommendations relating to waxing, medicated creams, and laser
hair removal. Facial attributes may be assessed and recommendations
or information provided. Facial attributes evaluated include shape,
position of eyebrows relative to eyes, distance from medial eyebrow
to medial canthus, distance from lateral eyebrow to lateral
canthus, distance of lateral canthus to medial canthus, spread and
distribution of hair per square millimeter, length and diameter of
hair, shape and contour of eyes, diameter of iris, distance
measurements of eyebrows, ridge of nose, and forehead/hairline,
width of eyelids, distance of the upper eyelid from the lower lid
at multiple locations, eye color-measure by the three basic color
red, blue, yellow, color and discolorations of sclera, eyelashes
measured by follicles per square millimeter, coarseness measured by
the length, and diameter of each hair, with information provided
including graphs, charts, topography, updates, and recommendations
regarding shaping, make up, medications, Botox, and even
surgery.
[0082] Facial symmetry of hair may be assessed, determining length
of forehead and measurement of trichion to glabella. The system may
recommend facial hair profiles and may provide graphs, charts, and
updates. General face shape may be assessed, including measurements
of trichion to menton, ear lobe to ear lobe, trichion to glabella,
trichion to arch of eyebrows, infratip of nose to menton, menton to
mandible, mandible to pre auricular points, and/or length of
filtrum. Results provided may include graphs, charts, topography
(as used herein, topography includes maps and or data related to
topography of the particular feature(s) or region), updates, and
recommendations including hair, make up, and jewelry.
[0083] Measurements and determinations of particular features may
be made, including but not limited to nose, lips, cheeks, jaw
lines, chin, and neck, with assessments made using cameras and any
other appropriate devices or modules. Graphs, charts, topographies,
and updates may be provided as well as feature specific
recommendations, such as makeup, surgical procedures, makeup,
fillers, moisturizers, treatments (e.g. Botox), and so forth.
[0084] Teeth may also be assessed based on measurement of teeth
size, separation distance of teeth, angle of teeth, color or shade,
and/or color of gums (measured by red, blue, and yellow against
white). In this cosmetics area, other outside factors may be
assessed--current medications and/or current diagnoses, for
example. The system may make specialized recommendations pertaining
to skin health with these medications and diagnoses, and may make
recommendations of supplements and/or foods to maintain skin
health.
[0085] Certain personality factors may be determined, such as
desired look during the day or night, age, gender, geographical
location, income, and/or occupation. From this, the system may
determine graphs and charts, and may make recommendations such as
color pallets and application instructions.
[0086] In the area of pharmaceuticals, the present system may make
additional assessments and may determine recommendations and
provide information to assist the user in his or her personal care.
One area is prescription medications, wherein the system collects
user name, quantity, dose, administration, duration of usage,
refills, adverse reactions, use in specific populations, over
dosage symptoms, over dosage signs, prescriber name, prescriber
address, prescriber phone number, pharmacy name, pharmacy address,
pharmacy phone number, controlled substance schedule (if
applicable), price per unit, and medication expiration date.
Certain information may be collected from third party sources if
available, as is the case with other functions performed by the
system. For example, if the medication is known, the system may
submit a query seeking adverse reactions, or if a pharmacist is
known, the system may seek the address and telephone number of the
pharmacy from an online source. As may be appreciated, such
specialized functionality must be provided in the system, i.e.
seeking information from a particular site, seeking the specific
information needed, and obtaining the information. The device may
perform this functionality, or such functionality may be performed
by the remote device arrangement or a person associated with the
remote device arrangement.
[0087] Information provided by the system may include a drug
interactions alert, a refill alert, alternative medications
options, generic medication options, an electronic update of
current medication list to the device cloud, filling of the pill
dispenser, lock filling into medication drawers if applicable,
providing alternative price per unit information from other
suppliers, an expiration date alert, and a next dose alert through
cloud based system.
[0088] Over the counter supplements and supplies may also be
assessed and information provided. Assessments may include name,
quantity, dose, administration, duration of usage, refills, adverse
reactions, use in specific populations, over dosage symptoms, over
dosage signs, prescriber name, prescriber address, prescriber phone
number, store name, store address, store phone number, price per
unit, and/or expiration date. The information provided to the user
may include a supplement interactions alert, a refill alert,
alternative supplement options, an electronic update of current
medication list, filling of a dispenser, alternative price per unit
from other suppliers, and/or coupon options from suppliers.
[0089] Health markers may also be assessed. Information assessed
may include Indication(s) for particular drugs (allergies, etc.),
heart rate, temperature, respiratory rate, pulse oximetry, systolic
blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, urine analysis, blood
analysis, breath analysis, weight, body pH level, sclera color,
pupil size, lip color analysis, skin color analysis, mini mental
status exam, pain scale, electrocardiogram, and/or BMI. The system
may take these inputs and make relevant determinations including a
score, raw data, percentile, chart or graph, measurement of
physical or mental response to a medication or supplement, possible
medication or supplement overdose symptoms alert, and possible
medication or supplement overdose signs alert.
[0090] Dispensing of prescriptions may be assessed and information
provided. Assessments may include name, quantity, dose,
administration, duration of usage, and refills. The system may
provide a visual display of one or more of the following: substance
name, substance remaining quantity, substance dosage, route of
administration, allowed refills, and/or substance expiration
date.
[0091] The present design may be used in various scenarios,
including but not limited to use of the design for pets or animals
as well as plants in addition to human personal care. In the pet
scenario, the device may monitor a pet, such as a body temperature
of a pet, using a module, and/or the location of a pet, such as
using a collar with a GPS component or other position determining
device. In the horticulture arrangement, for example, plant health
may be monitored and plant care provided as appropriate. In one
instance, a device may measure amount of water available to a tree,
and if deficient, may notify a person or service to provide water
to the plant, or may cause a sprinkler or watering apparatus to
turn on automatically.
[0092] Thus the present design may include hardware and devices
configured to facilitate personal care of a user. Personal care and
other functionality may be provided in, for example, the areas of
health, fitness, wellness, fashion, cosmetics, and/or
pharmaceuticals. The system may include a device configured to
receive personal health related modules, which are interchangeable,
and may include a device having a mirror or reflective surface that
acts as a computing device display. The device may include
processing and data storage capabilities, and the user may freely
exchange personal care modules as desired. The device may collect
information and may provide the information to a remote device
arrangement, including but not limited to the internet "cloud" and
may process the information received. As an example, information
regarding a desired weight goal may be provided, and health
recommendations may be transmitted from the remote device
arrangement to the device and the user. A handheld unit configured
to receive information and possibly process the information may be
provided so that the user may take the handheld unit with her to a
remote location. Information for multiple devices may be maintained
at the remote device arrangement, and differing levels of service
may be provided.
[0093] Thus according to one embodiment, there is provided an
apparatus comprising a personal care display device comprising a
plurality of connection ports, each connection port configured to
receive a hardware personal care module, each hardware personal
care module configured to interact with the personal care
combination display/mirror device to provide personal care
functionality facilitating personal care of a user, wherein
personal care comprises nutritional and pharmaceutical care and a
remote central server device arrangement. The personal care display
device is configured to transmit user personal care communications
comprising user specific nutritional and pharmaceutical care
communications personalized to the user to and receive user
personal care communications personalized to the user from the
remote central server device arrangement, and wherein the personal
care display device is configured for the user to freely substitute
selected and different hardware personal care modules in the
plurality of connection ports, and further wherein at least one
hardware personal care module interacts with the personal care
display device to sense a current physical attribute of the user. A
first hardware personal care module comprises a pharmaceutical
personal care module and a second hardware personal care module
comprises a nutritional personal care module, and the
pharmaceutical personal care module is used with the personal care
display device to assess user pharmaceutical needs and provide
pharmaceutical information and recommendations specifically for the
user to the user, and the nutritional personal care module is used
with the personal care display device to assess user nutritional
status and provide nutritional information and recommendations
specifically for the user to the user.
[0094] According to a second embodiment, there is provided a method
for facilitating personal care of a user, comprising receiving, at
a remote central server device arrangement, user personal care data
personalized to the user transmitted by a user personal care
display device, determining at the remote central server device
arrangement a user personal care recommendation specifically for
the user based on the user personal care data personalized to the
user received, and transmitting the user personal care
recommendation specifically for the user from the remote central
server device to the user personal care display device, wherein the
user personal care recommendation comprises at least one of a user
specific nutritional care recommendation and a user specific
pharmaceutical care recommendation. The user personal care display
device comprises a plurality of connection ports, each connection
port configured to receive a hardware personal care module, each
hardware personal care module configured to interact with the user
personal care display device to provide personal care functionality
facilitating personal care of a user. Personal care comprises
nutritional and pharmaceutical care. At least one hardware personal
care module interacts with the user personal care display device to
sense a current physical attribute of the user. A first hardware
personal care module comprises a pharmaceutical personal care
module and a second hardware personal care module comprises a
nutritional personal care module, and the pharmaceutical personal
care module is used with the user personal care display device to
assess user pharmaceutical needs and provide pharmaceutical
information and recommendations specifically for the user to the
user, and the nutritional personal care module is used with the
user personal care display device to assess user nutritional status
and provide nutritional information and recommendations
specifically for the user to the user.
[0095] According to a third embodiment, there is provided a
personal care display device, comprising a display and a housing
surrounding the display, the housing comprising a plurality of
connection ports configured to receive hardware personal care
modules, each hardware personal care module configured to interact
with the display to provide personal care functionality
facilitating personal care of a user. The housing comprises at
least one from a group consisting of a camera, a microphone, a
speaker, a sensor, and a fingerprint reader, and further wherein
the personal care device is configured to employ at least one
hardware personal care module to sense a current physical attribute
of the user, determine a personal care recommendation specific to
the user, and display the personal care recommendation to the user
using the display, wherein the personal care recommendation
provides at least one of a pharmaceutical personal care
recommendation and a nutritional personal care recommendation. A
first hardware personal care module comprises a pharmaceutical
personal care module and a second hardware personal care module
comprises a nutritional personal care module, and the
pharmaceutical personal care module is used with the personal care
display device to assess user pharmaceutical needs and provide
pharmaceutical information and recommendations specifically for the
user to the user, and the nutritional personal care module is used
with the personal care display device to assess user nutritional
status and provide nutritional information and recommendations
specifically for the user to the user.
[0096] According to a further embodiment, there is provided an
apparatus comprising a personal care display device comprising a
plurality of connection ports and a microphone, each connection
port configured to receive a hardware personal care module, each
hardware personal care module configured to interact with the
personal care display device to provide personal care functionality
facilitating personal care of a user, wherein personal care
comprises health care, and a remote central server device
arrangement. The personal care display device is configured to
receive spoken health care information from the user, transmit user
specific health care communications personalized to the user, and
receive user personal care communications personalized to the user
from the remote central server device arrangement. The personal
care display device is configured for the user to freely substitute
selected and different hardware personal care modules in the
plurality of connection ports. At least one hardware personal care
module interacts with the personal care display device to assess a
current health related attribute of the user, and one hardware
personal care module comprises a health care module.
[0097] According to another embodiment, there is provided a method
for facilitating personal care of a user, comprising receiving, at
a remote central server device arrangement, user personal care data
personalized to the user transmitted by a user personal care
display device, wherein personal care comprises health care, and
wherein the user personal care data comprises health care
information spoken by the user to a microphone associated with the
user personal care device, determining at the remote central server
device arrangement a user personal care recommendation specifically
for the user based on the user personal care data received, and
transmitting the user personal care recommendation specifically for
the user from the remote central server device to the user personal
care display device, wherein the user personal care recommendation
comprises a health care recommendation. The user personal care
display device comprises a plurality of connection ports, each
connection port configured to receive a hardware personal care
module, each hardware personal care module configured to interact
with the user personal care display device to provide personal care
functionality facilitating personal care of the user. One hardware
personal care module comprises a health care personal care module
used with the user personal care display device to facilitate
assessing user health care status and providing health care
information and recommendations specifically for the user to the
user.
[0098] According to a further aspect of the present design, there
is provided a personal care display device, comprising a display
and a housing surrounding the display, the housing comprising a
plurality of connection ports configured to receive hardware
personal care modules, each hardware personal care module
configured to interact with the display to provide personal care
functionality facilitating personal care of a user. The housing
comprises a microphone configured to receive a spoken expression
from the user, and further wherein the personal care device is
configured to employ at least one hardware personal care module,
and based on the spoken expression from the user and other
available information, determine a current physical attribute of
the user and a personal care recommendation specific to the user,
and display the personal care recommendation to the user using the
display, wherein the personal care recommendation is a health care
recommendation. One hardware personal care module comprises a
health care module usable with the personal care display device to
assess user health care needs and provide health care information
and recommendations specifically for the user to the user.
[0099] The foregoing description of specific embodiments reveals
the general nature of the disclosure sufficiently that others can,
by applying current knowledge, readily modify and/or adapt the
system and method for various applications without departing from
the general concept. Therefore, such adaptations and modifications
are within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed
embodiments. The phraseology or terminology employed herein is for
the purpose of description and not of limitation.
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