U.S. patent application number 17/025619 was filed with the patent office on 2022-03-24 for portable hair styling device with massaging bristles and formulation dispenser.
The applicant listed for this patent is L'Oreal. Invention is credited to David B. Kosecoff.
Application Number | 20220087406 17/025619 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | |
Filed Date | 2022-03-24 |
United States Patent
Application |
20220087406 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Kosecoff; David B. |
March 24, 2022 |
PORTABLE HAIR STYLING DEVICE WITH MASSAGING BRISTLES AND
FORMULATION DISPENSER
Abstract
A hair and scalp treatment device that comprises a dispenser
connected to a cartridge, wherein the cartridge comprises a
formulation; a plurality of tips on the device, wherein the tips
have at least one opening to dispense the formulation; and a
controller configured to control the dispensing of the formulation
through one or more tips individually.
Inventors: |
Kosecoff; David B.; (San
Francisco, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
L'Oreal |
Paris |
|
FR |
|
|
Appl. No.: |
17/025619 |
Filed: |
September 18, 2020 |
International
Class: |
A46B 13/04 20060101
A46B013/04; A46B 13/02 20060101 A46B013/02; A45D 19/02 20060101
A45D019/02; A46B 15/00 20060101 A46B015/00 |
Claims
1. A hair and scalp treatment device, comprising: a dispenser
connected to a cartridge, wherein the cartridge comprises a
formulation; a plurality of tips on the device, wherein the tips
have at least one opening to dispense the formulation; and a
controller configured to control the dispensing of the formulation
through one or more tips individually.
2. The device of claim 1, wherein the controller controls opening
the tips to dispense the formulation in a pattern and closes the
tips that do not lie in the pattern.
3. The device of claim 1, wherein the controller dispenses
formulation only through tips that are sensed to be in contact with
skin.
4. The device of claim 1, wherein the dispenser includes a
nebulizer to dispense the formulation as a mist.
5. The device of claim 1, wherein the tips are arranged on a brush
head.
6. The device of claim 1, wherein the tips include a first and
second hollow chamber.
7. The device of claim 1, wherein the controller is configured to
dispense the formulation through selected tips, but not all tips,
the selected tips are arranged to dispense the formulation in a
cone pattern or a fan pattern or both cone and fan patterns.
8. The device of claim 1, further comprising a camera and a
diagnosis module, wherein the diagnosis module is configured to
diagnose a scalp or hair condition based on images received from
the camera.
9. The device of claim 1, wherein the device is configured to
replace cartridges.
10. The device of claim 1, further comprising one or more LEDs on
the device, wherein the LEDs are controlled to deliver a selected
wavelength and power.
11. A hair and scalp treatment device, comprising: a plurality of
tips on the device, wherein the tips include actuators that vibrate
the tips in a first axis; and a controller configured to control
the vibration of the tips individually.
12. The device of claim 11, wherein the tips comprise a second
actuator to vibrate the tips in a second axis.
13. The device of claim 11, wherein the tips comprise a third
actuator configured to vibrate the tips in a third axis.
14. The device of claim 11, wherein the actuators comprise a shape
memory alloy or a piezoelectric material or a combination.
15. The device of claim 11, wherein the controller is configured to
select which of the plurality of tips to vibrate.
16. The device of claim 11, wherein the actuator comprises a pair
of piezoelectric materials placed opposite from each other.
17. The device of claim 11, wherein the tips comprise two hollow
chambers extending the length of the tip.
18. The device of claim 11, wherein the tips are conductive.
19. The device of claim 11, wherein the tips are attached to a
brush head, wherein the brush head is statically connected to the
device, and the tips vibrate without the brush head oscillating.
Description
SUMMARY
[0001] Scalp and hair formulations exist for treating dandruff,
hair-loss, stress reduction, itchiness, color and tint, oiliness,
appearance, frizz, volume, shine, dryness, density, and more.
However, more smart methods for applying formulations to the scalp
and hair are needed.
[0002] In one embodiment, a portable-sized brush or comb device
includes massaging tips individually controlled in XYZ motions by a
actuator. The tips individually dispense a precisely measured
volume of scalp product only upon contact with your scalp (through
use of open/short or dielectric skin contact sensors). Individually
activated tips spray hair product (dry shampoo or color tint) in
tightly controlled formations (i.e., in a flat fan formation).
Personalized scalp and hair products are stored in swappable
cartridges. The addition of a camera can diagnose scalp and hair
conditions related hair density, tone, and dryness. The addition of
LEDs can further treat hair, facilitate camera imaging, and be used
for formula curing.
[0003] This summary is provided to introduce a selection of
concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in
the Detailed Description. This summary is not intended to identify
key features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to
be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject
matter.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0004] The foregoing aspects and many of the attendant advantages
of this invention will become more readily appreciated as the same
become better understood by reference to the following detailed
description, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying
drawings, wherein:
[0005] FIG. 1 is a diagrammatical illustration of a hair and scalp
treatment device;
[0006] FIG. 2 is a diagrammatical illustration of the hair and
scalp treatment device of FIG. 1;
[0007] FIG. 3 is a diagrammatical illustration of a back view of
the hair and scalp treatment device of FIG. 1;
[0008] FIG. 4 is a diagrammatical illustration of a tip utilizing
half cylinder construction for the brush and comb embodiments;
[0009] FIG. 5 is a diagrammatical illustration of a tip utilizing
full cylinder within cylinder construction for the brush and comb
embodiments;
[0010] FIG. 6 is a diagrammatical illustration of a tip with LEDs
of half cylinder construction for the brush and comb
embodiments;
[0011] FIG. 7 is a diagrammatical illustration of a tip with LEDs
of full cylinder within cylinder construction for the brush and
comb embodiments;
[0012] FIG. 8 is a schematic illustration showing the components of
an embodiment of a hair and scalp treatment device;
[0013] FIG. 9 is a schematic illustration showing the ends of
individual tips being controlled to dispense formulation in
circular and linear patterns; and
[0014] FIG. 10 is a schematic illustration showing an individual
tip having individual actuators for vibration in three axes.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0015] Individuals are washing hair with traditional wet
water-based shampoo less and less frequently. A number of reasons
can be offered for the reduction in this type of shampoo, such as
preventing hair-loss and hair damage or saving time and energy. Dry
shampoos are on the rise. People are trying to prolong time
in-between salon visits to save money, leading to growing interest
in tinted dry shampoos for root touch-up. Dry shampoos are
primarily packaged in spray bottles. However, spray bottles create
concerns about inhaling the product and unintentional spraying of
the face, particularly the eyes. Spray bottles are imprecise in
both spray direction and spray amount. Further, spray bottles are
not appropriate when traveling or using public bathrooms. Dry
shampoos do not clean the scalp and in fact can damage it.
Nevertheless, there is a belief that caring for the scalp leads to
healthy hair. `Dry` methods of cleaning the scalp involve either
brushing or preening to spread the oils onto hair. Scalp treatment
and scalp-directed formulas can be applied via pipettes, foams or
powders, and require manually parting your hair. Powders and foams
get on hands. Dripping excessive product onto scalp can create
runoff and greasy-looking hair. Reusable and closed-loop product
design is a growing demand.
[0016] In one embodiment, a device includes massaging tips
individually controlled in XYZ motions by a actuator. The tips
individually dispense a precisely measured volume of scalp product
only upon contact with your scalp (through use of open/short or
dielectric skin contact sensors). Individually activated tips spray
hair product (dry shampoo or color tint) in tightly controlled
formations (i.e., in a flat fan formation). Personalized scalp and
hair products are stored in swappable cartridges. The addition of a
camera can diagnose scalp and hair conditions related hair density,
tone, and dryness. The addition of LEDs can further treat hair,
facilitate camera imaging, and be used for formula curing.
[0017] In one embodiment, a device releases hair and/or scalp
product as a vapor cloud (mist) either through ultrasound (similar
to a household humidifier). The more gentle dispersion of the
product reduces the amount of waste and improves control of
coverage. This solution contrasts with an aerosol spray can that
sprays more than is needed and produces a large cloud that covers
an area well outside the user's head.
[0018] In one embodiment, a multi-use device with individually
controlled tips for dispensing formulation and other uses is
described.
[0019] In one embodiment, each tip is constructed as a joining of a
first half-cylinder as a positive conductor and a second
half-cylinder as a negative conductor, separated by a
non-conductive gasket. Purely in terms of geometry, each tip is a
cylindrical chamber split lengthwise into two or more isolated
chambers, or two or more isolated cylinders affixed to each other
lengthwise.
[0020] In one embodiment, a tip acting as a positive terminal can
be used to provide additional functionality to the tips. In one
embodiment, micro-currents can be provided to the scalp, where the
scalp acts as the GND path which also includes the skin and tissue
between the scalp and a negative terminal placed so as to be in
contact with the hand, such as on the handle 104 of the device 100.
Tips can provide micro-currents to the scalp, where the scalp acts
as a conductive path between any positive terminal and any negative
terminal. Alternatively, micro-currents can be administered between
multiple tips, where one tip acts at the positive source and the
other acts as GND.
[0021] In one embodiment, impedance can be measured between the
positive and negative terminals to determine scalp moisture level.
Alternatively, impedance can be measured between multiple tips to
determine scalp moisture level across wider regions. Impedance can
be measured between the positive terminal or negative terminal and
scalp (via return path to handle) to determine if a tip is in
contact with scalp (skin). This is useful if the application
requires scalp contact; for instance, in a formula treatment with
vacuuming system, where the scalp is the treatment target and the
vacuum is at risk of vacuuming hair if it's not operating directly
on the scalp.
[0022] A LED can be placed at the end of the tip and powered by the
two terminals. If the LED is powerful, thermal dissipation can be
absorbed (heatsinked) by the conductive material. A LED at the far
end of the tip will deliver more energy to the scalp than if it is
at the base and/or delivered through a long fiber-optic path. The
LED can be used for treatment, curing formula, or indicating device
status (i.e., operational mode or charging status).
[0023] A series of laser-cut holes (perforations) along the length
of tip can be used to deliver formulations to the scalp and/or
hair. Alternatively, individual openings at the very end of the tip
can be used if only the scalp is targeted.
[0024] The functions of the tips and their split conduction halves
can be dynamically controlled and reassigned by a central
integrated circuit within the primary body of the brush device.
Even if the tip is not made of conductive materials, the `two or
more cylinder` construction can be useful if the application
involves mixing formulas or dispensing formula with vacuuming onto
a small, controlled target area on the scalp.
[0025] FIG. 1 is an illustration of a device 100 for cleansing hair
that can be used with dry shampoo formulations that has additional
functionality through the individual activation of tips for
dispensing, sensing, massaging, and other uses . In one embodiment,
the device 100 uses a brush- or comb-like architecture that relies
on a combination of mechanical and chemical action to deposit
desired formulations for cleansing, removing the formulations with
unwanted particulates, and further provides additional cosmetic or
health attributes. The intuitive action provides a familiar gesture
easy to incorporate into current beauty and haircare routines.
Further, the device 100 can include various types of hollow
conductive or non-conductive tips (702, 802, 1100, or 1200)
arranged in a brush or comb configuration. A brush configuration is
shown in the FIGURES, however, the device 100 can be configured
with tips in a comb configuration, i.e., a single row. However, the
tips arranged in a brush configuration allows various advantages,
such as individual actuation of the tips for applying one or more
treatments, dispensing, or massaging using only some, but not all,
tips.
[0026] In one embodiment, the tips being conductive allows several
options, for example, the conductive tips can be used with a
micro-current generator, or the conductive tips can be used as a
sensing instrument to detect skin contact, or the conductive tips
can be used to power light-emitting diodes (LEDs) for light
therapy, or the conductive tips can be used to provide vibration in
one to three axes.
[0027] In one embodiment, the device 100 is provided with tips
utilizing a hollow construction that allows more precise delivery
of formulations. For example, formulations can be dispensed from
only those tips to form a certain spray pattern. In one embodiment,
the conductive tips are made from more than one hollow chambers
extending the length of the tips that allow dispensing one or more
formulations through the tips. In one embodiment, the tips are
non-conductive, but still include hollow chambers extending the
length of the tips to provide the dispensing feature.
[0028] In one embodiment, the device 100 is shaped in the style of
well-recognized familiar hair appliances to inspire trust and
confidence in the device leading to intuitive use and gestures when
using the device.
[0029] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, in one embodiment, the device
100 includes a handle 104 connected to a substantially cylindrical
section 138. The handle 104 is connected to the device 100 at an
obtuse angle with respect to the front end of the device 100. The
handle 104 helps balance the device weight for more comfortable use
and easier control. The control buttons can also be located on the
handle.
[0030] Referring to FIG. 2, at the back side, the device 100 can
include a smaller diameter cylindrical shaped housing 136 that
accepts a removable cartridge 102 containing a hair or scalp
treatment formulation. Device 100 allows cartridges 102 to be
swapped readily to provide different formulations. The cartridge
102 can be configured to be a re-fillable cartridge or a disposable
cartridge. In one embodiment, the device 100 can be configured to
hold more than one cartridges 102, wherein each cartridge can be
filled with a different formulation for a different treatment.
Alternatively, some applications may use two or more different
formulations that require applying both formulations to achieve the
intended treatment.
[0031] Forward from the rear housing 136, the device 100 exterior
shape increases step-wise to a larger outer diameter portion 138
compared to the cartridge housing 136 diameter. In one embodiment,
the device 100 includes a body structure that has a substantially
cylindrical or minimally tapered conical portion 138 from the back
end to about the middle of the device length. In one embodiment,
the handle 104 connects to the back side of portion 138.
[0032] In one embodiment, the device 100 has the tips 602, 702,
1100, 1200 arranged in a brush configuration, such as concentric
circles. The device 100 includes a brush head 140 connected to the
central portion 138. The brush head 140 is the part of the device
100 that holds the tips 602, 702, 1100, or 1200. In one embodiment,
the brush head 140 is static with respect to the device and does
not actuate, because the individual tips are actuated individually
to vibrate, thus, obviating the need to have a rotating or
oscillating brush head. Further, the tips are also configured to
enable controlling the dispensing of formulations from some
individual tips and not others. This allows "turning on" some tips
while leaving other tips "turned off" to create different spray
patterns from the brush head.
[0033] In one embodiment, the tips 602, 702, 1100, 1200 are
arranged in concentric circles on the brush head 140. In one
embodiment, the tips 602, 702, 1100, 1200 are configured to be able
to dispense two different formulations. In an embodiment, the tips
602, 702, 1100, 1200 have hollow chambers that extend the entire
length of the tips. Tips 602, 702, 1100, 1200 are at least one
diameter in length. However, tips 602, 702, 1100, 1200 can be
constructed to be several diameters in length, so the width to
length ratio can vary from 1 to 1 to 1 to 20 or more. The tips 602,
702, 1100, 1200 can be flexible or non-flexible. Tips 602, 702,
1100, 1200 can also be connected on the brush head 140 in a
flexible matter. The segregated chambers allow one or more
formulations to be delivered through each chamber without mixing.
The formulations can be segregated within the respective chambers
until the time the formulations exit the chambers. The dispensing
of formulations can be accomplished by constructing each of the
chambers with openings along the length or only at the ends or both
along the length and ends of the chambers. Further, each of the
chambers in the tips can have a valve or other means to control
dispensing only from one chamber or both chambers. Controlling the
dispensing of formulations from only certain tips on the brush head
allows dispensing in multiple patters, for example, cone spray, fan
spray, and the like.
[0034] In an embodiment, chambers are depicted as half-cylinders
and full cylinders, but the chambers may take on any
cross-sectional shape. Additionally, in an embodiment, the tips
602, 702, 1100, 1200 and the first and second hollow chambers
forming them can be electrically conductive so as to be configured
as a positive and negative terminal to further provide
micro-currents or to the scalp and hair. Further, conductive tips
602, 702, 1100, 1200 have other uses when the first and second
hollow chambers are connected to a positive and negative terminal
of a power supply or the first and second hollow chambers are
connected to a positive and negative sensing terminal.
[0035] In one embodiment, the tips 602, 702, 1100, 1200 do not need
to conductive, but the multi-cylinder construction can still be
useful if the application involves mixing formulations or
dispensing formulations and vacuuming onto a small, controlled
target area on the scalp.
[0036] Referring to FIG. 4, in one embodiment, the tip 602 is
constructed as joining a first hollow half cylinder 604 to a second
hollow half cylinder 606 along the length direction. The first 604
and second 606 half cylinders can be made from an electrically
conductive material. In one embodiment, the first 604 and second
606 half cylinders are separated by an electrical insulator 608.
Here, although the overall shape of the tip 602 is of a "cylinder,"
according to this disclosure the tip 602 can have any
cross-sectional shape, including oblong, rectangular, square, or
any other polygon.
[0037] In one embodiment, the first hollow half cylinder 604 and
the second 606 hollow half cylinder are made from a conductive
material such as metal. In one embodiment, one of the first 604 or
second 606 half cylinder can be designated a positive conductor
terminal and the other half cylinder will be designated a negative
conductor terminal.
[0038] In one embodiment, the first 604 and second 606 hollow
chambers are made from or could be embedded with a shape memory or
piezoelectric material that can be actuated by an electric current
to control a direction of movement of the tips 602. In one
embodiment, the chambers in a dual-chamber construction could be
made of or embed a shape memory or piezoelectric materials that
actuate in opposing directions from one another, allowing for plus
and/or minus actuation about a center position depending on which
chamber is activated. These materials can exist as polymers,
ceramics, and alloys, for example. In one embodiment, the shape
memory and piezoelectric materials can be fabricated as coils, and
do not necessarily have to be hollow chambers. Coils can be
effective for actuating the tips vertically along the Z axis (i.e.,
in the axial direction of the coil). Electrical actuation of the
shape memory and piezoelectric materials is via an AC or DC power
source having a positive and negative terminal connected to the
shape memory or piezoelectric material.
[0039] FIG. 4 further illustrates that tips 602 can have openings
904 on the exterior circumference. The hollow half cylinder 604 has
first openings 904 along a length of the exterior, and the hollow
half cylinder 606 has second openings 906 along a length of the
exterior. In one embodiment, the openings 904, 906 can be made by
laser-cutting holes (perforations) along the length of tip 602.
[0040] In one embodiment, tips 602 can omit openings along the
length of the tips, and the tips 602 are provided with openings
only at the very ends so as to use the tips 602 for treatment of
the scalp. In this way, two different formulations can be delivered
from tips 602 via the half cylinder 604 and the half cylinder
606.
[0041] In one embodiment, the end of the tips 602 include a
perforated flat or domed disk having small openings 610 in the
first half cylinder 604 and openings 612 in the second half
cylinder 606. In one embodiment, instead of a disk, the half
cylinders 604 and 606 can be completely open at the end. Either
construction allows dispensing formulation from the ends or along
the length of the tips 602 or both along the length and ends of the
tips 602.
[0042] Referring to FIG. 5, in one embodiment, the tip 702 is
constructed by inserting a first hollow small diameter cylinder 704
into a second hollow larger diameter cylinder 706. In one
embodiment, the first cylinder 704 is coaxial with the second
cylinder 706. The first cylinder 704 may be called the inner
cylinder and the second cylinder 706 may be called the outer
cylinder. Here, although the tip 702 is in the shape of a
"cylinder,", according to this disclosure a tip can have any
cross-sectional shape, including oblong, rectangular, square, or
any other polygon.
[0043] In one embodiment, the first cylinder 704 and the second 706
cylinder are made from a conductive material such as metal. In one
embodiment, the exterior of the first smaller cylinder 704 can be
coated with an insulator. An insulator is optional if the first 704
and second 706 cylinders cannot be electrically isolated from each
other. In one embodiment, one of the first 704 or second 706
cylinders will be designated a positive conductor terminal and the
other cylinder will be designated a negative conductor
terminal.
[0044] In one embodiment, the first 704 and second 706 hollow
chambers are made from or could be embedded with a shape memory or
piezoelectric material that can be actuated by an electric current
to control a direction of movement of the tips 702. In one
embodiment, the chambers in a dual-chamber construction could be
made of or embed a shape memory or piezoelectric materials that
actuate in opposing directions from one another, allowing for plus
and/or minus actuation about a center position depending on which
chamber is activated. These materials can exist as polymers,
ceramics, and alloys, for example. In one embodiment, the shape
memory and piezoelectric materials can be fabricated as coils, and
do not necessarily have to be hollow chambers. Coils can be
effective for actuating the tips vertically along the Z axis (i.e.,
in the axial direction of the coil). Electrical actuation of the
shape memory and piezoelectric materials is via an AC or DC power
source having a positive and negative terminal connected to the
shape memory or piezoelectric material.
[0045] In FIG. 5, the inner cylinder 704 has first openings 1004
that appear on the exterior of outer cylinder 706; however,
openings 1004 can be connected passing through the outer cylinder
706, so that openings are closed off to the outer cylinder 706, for
example, by tubes that lead to the inner cylinder 704. The outer
cylinder 706 has second openings 1006 along a length of the
exterior, wherein openings 1006 only connect to the interior of the
outer cylinder 706. In an embodiment, the inner cylinder 704 and
outer cylinder 706 are not coaxial with each other, but, the inner
cylinder 704 may be placed against the inner wall of the outer
cylinder 706, thus, the openings from the inner cylinder 704 may
only need to traverse the wall of the outer cylinder 706, thus,
avoiding the need to connect openings via tubes. An insulator may
need to be interposed between the inner 704 and outer 706 cylinders
for electrical isolation. In either construction, two different
formulations can be delivered from tips 702 via the inner 704 and
outer cylinder 706. In one embodiment, the openings 1004, 1006 can
be made by laser-cutting holes (perforations) along the length of
tip 702.
[0046] In one embodiment, the end of the tips 702 include a
perforated flat or domed disk having small openings 710 in the
first inner cylinder 704 and openings 708 in the second outer
cylinder 706. In an embodiment, instead of a disk, the inner and
outer cylinders 704 and 706 can be completely open at the end.
Either construction allows dispensing formulation from the ends or
along the length of the tips 702 or both along the length and ends
of the tips.
[0047] In one embodiment, when the tips 602 and 702 are made from
conductive materials, one of the cylinders 604 or 606 and 704 or
706 of each of the tips 602 and 702 may serve as a positive
terminal and the other to act as a negative terminal for the
conduction of electrical charges. This allows powering devices,
such a LEDs or sensors.
[0048] FIG. 6 illustrates a tip 1100, similar to tip 602 in
construction, made from an electrically conductive first hollow
half cylinder 1104 placed side-by-side, but electrically isolated,
to an electrically conductive second hollow half cylinder 1106,
wherein first half cylinder 1104 is designated as a positive or
negative terminal, and the second half cylinder 1106 is the
terminal of opposite polarity as the first half cylinder 1104. An
electrically insulating material or coating can be added between
the first 1104 and second 1106 hollow half cylinders for electrical
isolation. A power source is connected to the first 1104 and second
1106 half cylinders. In one embodiment, this allows placing one or
more light-emitting diodes 1102 at the end of the tip or other
locations that is powered by the two half cylinder serving as
terminals by being in contact with the positive and negative
terminals.
[0049] FIG. 7 illustrates a tip 1200, similar to tip 702 in
construction, made from an electrically conductive first hollow
inner cylinder 1204 placed inside or coaxially within an
electrically conductive second hollow outer cylinder 1206, wherein
first inner cylinder 1204 is a positive or negative terminal, and
the second outer cylinder 1106 is the terminal of opposite polarity
to the first cylinder 1204. An electrically insulating material or
coating can be added between the first 1204 and second 1206 hollow
cylinders for electrical isolation. A power source is connected to
the first inner 1204 and second outer 1206 cylinders. In one
embodiment, this allows placing one or more light-emitting diodes
1202 at the end of the tip or other locations that is powered by
the two cylinders serving as terminals by being in contact with the
positive and negative terminals.
[0050] In one embodiment, depending on the power of the LEDs 1102
and 1202, thermal dissipation can be absorbed (heatsinked) by the
conductive material of the cylinders 1104, 1106, 1204, and
1206.
[0051] In one embodiment, when the LEDs 1102 and 1202 are placed at
the end of the tips, the LEDs can deliver more energy to the scalp
compared to being placed at the base of the tips or when the LED
light is delivered through a long fiber-optic path.
[0052] In one embodiment, the LEDs 1102 and 1202 can be used for
treatment, curing formula, or indicating device status (i.e.,
operational mode or charging status). LEDs can be any type of a
single wavelength (laser LED) or of a range of wavelengths. In one
embodiment, LEDs 1102, 1202 are capable of producing light over a
broad range of the electromagnetic spectrum. In one embodiment,
light therapy has been used on the scalp to treat a skin condition.
In one embodiment, light therapy has been used to stimulate the
cells of hair follicles. The intensity of the light produced by the
LEDs 1102, 1202 can be varied by controlling the current, for
example.
[0053] In one embodiment, the LEDs 1102, 1202 include one or more
Group III-V (GaAs) based LEDs that are capable of emitting
electromagnetic radiation at wavelengths in a range spanning from
green visible light to near infrared. In one embodiment, the LEDs
1102, 1202 include one or more Group III-nitride blue LED solid
state emitters that are capable of emitting electromagnetic
radiation at wavelengths in a range spanning from ultraviolet to
blue visible light.
[0054] In one embodiment, the wavelength output of the LEDs 1102,
1202 includes one or more gallium-indium-nitrogen (GaInN) LEDs that
have a wavelength output of about 360-370 nm. In other embodiments,
the LEDs 1102, 1202 emit electromagnetic energy in a range of
wavelengths from about 200 nm to about 2000 nm, which includes
wavelengths in the ultraviolet range (about 350 nm) and near
infrared (about 1200 nm).
[0055] Referring to FIG. 8, the device 100 is represented
schematically to illustrate the main systems.
[0056] In one embodiment, the device 100 includes a power supply
128. The device 100 can be powered by alternating current (AC) or
direct current (DC). In one embodiment, the device 100 is powered
through common household alternating current that relies on an
electrical cord (not shown) to supply power to the device 100. In
one embodiment, the device 100 is powered through direct current,
such as a rechargeable battery that can be charged by plugging into
a household alternating current outlet. A direct current powered
device 100 allows the device to be used without staying or standing
in proximity to an electrical outlet. The power supply 128 is
configured to provide power to any of the systems requiring power,
such as a controller 148, dispenser 112, massage module 152, vacuum
motor 114, camera 160, LEDs 1102, 1202, and at the tips 602, 702,
1100, and 1200.
[0057] In one embodiment, the device 100 includes a formulation
dispenser 112. In one embodiment, the formulation is stored in a
replaceable or refillable cartridge 102. Cartridges 102 can be
removable from the device 100 either to be re-filled or for
disposal and replacement with a new full cartridge. Once emptied, a
cartridge 102 can be replaced with a new cartridge filled with the
same or different formulation or the cartridge can be refilled with
the same or different formulation. As seen in FIG. 1, the cartridge
102 is inserted through the back of the device 100. The cartridge
102 is connected to supply the scalp or hair formulation to the
dispenser 112. In one embodiment, the device 100 can hold multiple
cartridges, wherein each cartridge is filled with a different
formulation, which can be dispensed to effect different treatments
and to different regions of the scalp and hair.
[0058] In one embodiment, the cartridge 102 has a product
identification tag 154 (FIG. 1) that can convey instructions for
operation of the device 100 based on the specific formulation
contained in the cartridge 102. The device 100 may include a
product identification tag reader 156 (FIG. 1) capable of reading
the product identification tag 154 and processing the encoded
signals into instructions for operation and control of the device
based on the particular formulation. Product identification tags,
include for example, bar codes, 2-D bar codes, RFID, and the like.
The product identification tag is encoded with machine readable
signals that convey the device settings for the particular
formulation. Different formulations may have different device
settings. For example, the product identification tags can include
dispenser setting from liquid to fine, medium, or coarse droplets.
Product identification tags can also include the dispenser pattern
formation, such as flat fan versus cone, wide versus narrow, solid
versus hollow, stream versus mist. Product identification tags can
also contain instructions for operating the LEDs 1102, 1202.
Different formulations can also be used for treating different
regions of the scalp and hair. Different formulations may also be
used to provide different treatments to the scalp and hair.
[0059] The dispenser 112 can dispense one or more formulations
through the tips 602, 702, 1100, 1200 as a fine mist or liquid or
any form in-between. In one embodiment, the dispenser 112 includes
a compressor, pump, or ultrasonic wave generator to generate a mist
from the formulation. In the case of a pump or compressor dispenser
112, such dispenser 112 causes air or the formulation to flow at a
high velocity which propels the formulation through a fine
openings. In the case of a pump or compressor dispenser, a single
dispenser 112 can be placed in the device 100. Then, the outlet of
a compressor or pump dispenser 112 is routed through a system of
conduits to each of the individual tips.
[0060] In an embodiment, the dispenser 112 is an ultrasonic wave
nebulizer that generates a mist or vapor to dispense the
formulation through individual tips. This has the advantage of
gentle dispersion of the formulation to reduce the amount of waste
and improves control of coverage. In one embodiment, the nebulizer
uses an ultrasonic wave generator that is in contact with the
formulation where the frequency of the ultrasonic waves is
sufficient to produce the mist. An ultrasonic wave nebulizer also
includes a "mesh" nebulizer that has a vibrating mesh just touching
the surface of the formulation to create the mist. Either form of
ultrasonic wave nebulizer can use a piezoelectric element.
[0061] In one embodiment, the ultrasonic wave generator and
vibrating mesh nebulizer may both use a piezoelectric material to
generate vibrations in the ultrasound frequencies. In one
embodiment, the same piezoelectric material that is used in the
nebulizer may also be used to drive a haptic system. A haptic
system can include a massage therapy system, but, may also include
any system that provides a sensory experience, such as heating and
related ultrasound therapies. Nebulizers may rely on generating
frequencies of over 1 MHz. A nebulizer capable of producing
frequencies of over 1 MHz, may also be used to drive a haptic
system to generate heat that can be used to treat the skin and
scalp either alone or together with the dispensing of formulations.
Some nebulizers may also rely on ultrasound frequencies less than 1
MHz. In one embodiment, the nebulizer can be used to drive a haptic
system to generate frequencies in a range designed to deliver
therapeutic compounds to the skin and scalp in conjunction with the
dispensing of formulations. Therefore, there are advantages when
the same piezoelectric material that is used in the nebulizer
system is used in a haptic system.
[0062] In one embodiment, each of the tips may include a valve at
the entrance to one or both chambers. The valve has an actuator
that opens and closes the valve. Each valve of each tip can be
actuated to open or close independently of the other valves of
other tips. By opening or closing the valve at each individual tip,
the formulation can be controlled to flow out only from selected
tips in a controlled pattern, such as cone, flat fan, stream,
multiple streams, in pulses, and the like. Further, having a valve
to control dispensing from both chambers of a tip allows
controlling the formulations to flow out from one or both of the
chambers.
[0063] FIG. 9 is a schematic illustration showing the ends of the
tips 602, 702, 1100, 1200. In one embodiment, the tips are arranged
in increasing diameter circular patterns of small 908, medium 910,
and large 912 diameters. In one embodiment, only the valves of tips
connected by one of the circles 908, 910, or 912 can be opened,
leading to dispensing of the formulation in a small cone 908,
medium cone 910, and large cone 912, to cover small, medium, and
large areas of the scalp or hair. A controller is instructed to
open the tips that lie in a pattern to dispense the formulation
according to the pattern and closes the tips that do not lie in the
pattern. The actuation of valves of individual tips is not limited
to only circular patterns. In one embodiment, the valves of tips
can be actuated in a linear pattern. Line 914 connects only the
tips that would be opened to dispense formulation in a fan pattern,
while the remaining tips that do not lie in the linear pattern
would be kept closed. Any combination of individual tips can be
selected to dispense formulation from only certain tips, but not
others, to achieve distinct patterns.
[0064] In one embodiment, the dispenser 112 operates by depressing
the switch 106 (FIGS. 1 and 2). In one embodiment, the switch 106
is placed on the front side of upper part of the handle 104 to
allow operation with the index finger. In one embodiment, the
switch 106 is a momentary switch with the default position being
the off position. A momentary switch only needs to be activated
once, regardless of length of activation, to dispense a measured
amount of formulation. Keeping a momentary switch 106 depressed
longer does not dispense more formulation beyond the pre-measure
amount. In another embodiment, the switch 106 is an on-off switch
that starts and stops the dispenser 112 based on opening and
closing the switch.
[0065] In one embodiment, the valves on tips 602, 702, 1100, and
1200 are only actuated if the individual tip that is selected for
dispensing is in contact with the skin. In one embodiment, the tips
602, 702, 1100, and 1200 being made from conductive materials
allows the tips to act as contact sensors. In one embodiment, one
of the cylinders of each of the tips 602, 702, 1100, and 1200 can
act as a positive terminal, while a second cylinder of the same or
different tip acts as a negative terminal. In one embodiment,
impedance can be measured between any positive terminal of a tip
and any negative terminal of a tip to determine if one or more
individual tips are in contact with scalp (skin). In one
embodiment, impedance can be measured between any positive terminal
and the scalp (via a conductive return path to handle)/Determining
impedance and contact is useful if the application requires scalp
contact; for instance, in a formula treatment and vacuuming system,
where the scalp is being treated and the vacuum is at risk of
vacuuming hair if the device is not operating directly on the
scalp.
[0066] In one embodiment, the measure of impedance can also be used
to calculate scalp moisture level at a specific point or over a
more general region. In one embodiment, impedance can be measured
from different tips to determine scalp moisture level across wider
regions.
[0067] In one embodiment, a contact sensor 162 can be placed at the
tip ends. In one embodiment, the contact sensor 162 includes open
or short detectors or dielectric sensors. An open detector can
refer to an open circuit detector for detecting a broken (open)
continuity in an electrical transmission. A short detector can
refer to detection of low electrical resistance. A dielectric
sensor is also referred to as a capacitance detector which can
detect a change in dielectric permittivity. In one embodiment, the
contact sensor 162 may be a sensor that detects contact or no
contact of an individual tip. In one embodiment, the contact sensor
162 may indicate the amount of contact. An example of a contact
sensor that can detect an amount of contact is a piezoelectric
sensor.
[0068] In one embodiment, the device 100 includes an massage module
152. A massage module 152 is any circuitry configured to control
the actuation of any number of individual tips 602, 702, 1100, and
1200 to vibrate. In this embodiment, tips are individually
controlled to vibrate as compared to oscillation of an entire brush
head. The massage module circuitry can reside within the controller
148 or be a separate component. The massage module 152 circuitry
controls the individual tips to actuate in one to three axes (XYZ).
Activation of the tips to vibrate may be started by a switch 164.
In one embodiment, each tip 602, 702, 1100, 1200 on the brush head
140 has its own actuators to vibrate each individual tip in one to
three axes. In one embodiment, actuators can include shape memory
or piezoelectric materials. As described above, conductive
cylinders can be constructed from or embedded with shape memory or
piezoelectric materials to actuate vibrations.
[0069] Referring to FIG. 10, one embodiment of a tip 602, 702,
1100, 1200 includes a first pair of actuators 1008, 1010, placed or
embedded on the cylinder of the tip in diametrically opposed
locations from each other. The actuators 1008, 1010 extend axially
along the length of the tip. The actuators 1008, 1010 can be
actuated one at a time to create a side-to-side motion, such as in
the X-axis. The tip includes a second pair of actuators 1012, 1014,
placed or embedded on the cylinder of the tip in diametrically
opposed locations from each other, and separated ninety degrees
from actuators 1008, 1010. The actuators 1012, 1014 extend axially
along the length of the tip. The actuators 1012, 1014 can be
actuated one at a time to create a side-to-side motion, such as in
the Y-axis. The actuators 1008, 1010, 1012, 1014 are coupled on the
conductive substrate of the tip and rely on the transverse
piezoelectric effect to produce contraction and a bending motion in
one direction when a voltage is applied across the piezoelectric
material and the substrate. In this manner, side-to-side actuation
is possible in both the X and Y axes.
[0070] For vibration in the Z-axis or up and down vibration, the
top end of the tip can rest against a shape memory coil 1016 which
can be actuated to vibrate up and down. Although one embodiment of
using piezoelectric and shape memory materials is illustrated,
other configurations are possible based on the disclosure.
Piezoelectric materials can also be produced as tubes or stacked to
cause up and down vibration, while shape memory alloys can be
provided as strips to cause side-to-side, bending, or shearing
motions for X and Y axes vibration. Any combination of one or more
piezoelectric or shape memory alloys can be used to provide the
tips with vibration in one to three axes.
[0071] In one embodiment, the device 100 includes a vacuum system
114 having a vacuum generating motor and collector 116. In one
embodiment, a motor can be a variable speed motor. The vacuum motor
114 is connected to impeller vanes that cause a stream of air to
enter through one of the cylinders of the tips 602, 702, 1100, and
1200. The motor induces a stream of air to enter through the tip
openings. The stream of air can carry the used formulation along
with any debris and oils washed out of the hair by the formulation,
which then gets captured by a collector 116, and the air is
expelled out of the device 100. In one embodiment, the collector
116 includes an annular vent placed at the back of the device 100.
The vent allows the stream of air to exit the device 100, while the
used and debris become trapped in the collector 116.
[0072] In one embodiment, the vacuum motor 114 is operated by the
multi-positional, multi-functional, selector switch 110 (FIG. 3). A
selector switch 110 can be a slide switch or a dial switch with
more than two positions, or a push button switch with more than two
positions, for example. In one embodiment, a vacuum selector switch
110 includes settings for off and more than one vacuum speed
setting, such as high and low. In one embodiment, the vacuum switch
110 is placed on the back side of lower part of the handle 104 to
allow operation with the thumb, for example. The vacuum switch 110
can be isolated for uninterrupted vacuum. Light-emitting diodes 118
can be used to light up the selected position. The selector switch
110 remains in the selected position until moved to another
position. In one embodiment, a momentary switch can replace the
selector switch, wherein the default position of the momentary
switch is the off position, and the momentary switch has to be
depressed to start the vacuum motor. In one embodiment, the device
100 includes both a vacuum selector switch and momentary switch,
wherein the momentary switch is used to operate the vacuum motor
when depressed, and at the speed setting on the selector
switch.
[0073] In one embodiment, the device 100 includes a diagnosis
module 160. The diagnosis module circuitry can reside within the
controller 148 or be a distinct module. In one embodiment, the
diagnosis module 160 has circuitry configured to relate the
absorption of light of a certain wavelength to a skin or hair
condition. In one embodiment, skin and hair conditions related to
hair density, tone, and dryness can be identified by measuring the
absorption of light. The diagnosis module 160 makes skin and hair
diagnosis based on images from a camera 158. Camera 158 may reside
on the end of the tips or be located on the device 100. In one
embodiment, the camera 158 may be a semiconductor integrated
circuit that converts light into images, such as a charge coupled
device (CCD) or pixel sensors. In one embodiment, diagnosis of skin
and hair conditions are determined by selective filtering, by
wavelength selective absorption within multiple photodetector
layers, or by any other method. In one embodiment, a spectral
absorption feature for a given chromophore in skin is manifested as
dark spots on an image recorded by camera 158. The absorbance and
emission characteristics of various skin conditions are stored in
the controller memory, and the diagnosis module 160 makes
comparisons of the images to the characteristics indicative of
various skin conditions. When the diagnosis module 160 determines a
match with a skin or hair condition, the diagnosis module 160 can
send instructions via the controller 148 to dispense a certain
formulation or apply a certain wavelength of light via the LEDs
1102, 1202.
[0074] In one embodiment, the device 100 includes a controller 148.
In one embodiment, the controller 148 is a digital device. The
controller 148 may include one or more hardware circuits connected
on a printed circuit board, or all of circuits may exist on a
single chip. The controller 148 may include at least a
microprocessor core and a memory. The hardware can be designed for
use in small hand operated devices. The microprocessor may be
implemented as multiple processors cooperatively working in
parallel and series to perform instructions according to
pre-programmed logic.
[0075] Instructions to control the dispenser 112, massage module
152, vacuum 114, diagnosis module 160 can be stored in the
controller memory. A memory is any type of computer-readable medium
or computer storage device that can be accessed and used by one or
more microprocessors to carry out the instructions. Instructions
may be stored in a high-speed memory such as a EEPROM, Flash
memory, RAM, or other programmable non-volatile memory.
[0076] The controller 148 communicates with the dispenser 112,
massage module 152, vacuum 114, and diagnosis module 160 to make
decisions and control the output from the device based on inputs
received form the tips 602, 702, 1100, 1200 themselves, the LEDs
1102, 1202, contact sensor 162, and camera 158.
[0077] In one embodiment, the controller 148 can also interpret the
information provided on cartridges 102 to give instructions to the
dispenser 112 that are specific to the formulation. The controller
148 can control to open and close all of the tips 602, 702, 1100,
and 1200 to allow formulation to be dispensed through individually
selected tips in a pattern.
[0078] In one embodiment, the controller 148 has circuitry to
determine the impedance between terminals of any one or more tips
to determine which tips are in contact with the skin and which tips
are not in contact with the skin. The controller 148 can then open
those valves on the tips that are in contact and close the valves
that are not in contact, and give permission to the dispenser to
proceed with dispensing formulation through the tips in contact
with skin.
[0079] In one embodiment, the controller 148 uses the impedance to
determine whether the tips are in contact with the scalp. In one
embodiment, the controller 148 can turn off the vacuum 114 or not
allow the vacuum to be turned on when it is determined that one or
more tips are not in contact with the scalp.
[0080] In one embodiment, the controller 148 can use a measure of
the impedance to determine the moisture of one or more regions on
the scalp.
[0081] In one embodiment, the controller 148 receives signals from
the contact sensor 162 to determine whether or not tips are in
contact with the skin.
[0082] In one embodiment, the controller 148 has circuitry to
control the opening of valves of only those tips that will produce
a selected spray pattern.
[0083] In one embodiment, the controller 148 has circuitry to
control the amount of formulation that is dispensed by the
dispenser.
[0084] In one embodiment, the controller 148 has circuitry to
determine which ones of the tips are actuated to vibrate and in
which axis.
[0085] In one embodiment, the controller 148 has image processing
circuitry to convert signals from the camera and perform spectral
analysis.
[0086] In one embodiment, the controller 148 is configured to
provide power to any one or more of the tips.
[0087] In one embodiment, the controller 148 has circuitry to turn
on the LEDs 1102 and 1202 based on pre-determined instructions. For
example, some formulations may call for applying light in a certain
wavelength. The controller 148 may be used control the LEDs 1102
and 1202 to provide a light therapy treatment. The controller 148
has instructions for determining the wavelength and power to be
applied for the light therapy.
[0088] In one embodiment, the controller 148 has circuitry to
control the amount of formulation that is dispensed by the
dispenser 112. For example, the controller 148 can turn on a pump
or compressor for a predetermined amount of time that correlates to
a specific amount of formulation. In one embodiment, the dispenser
112 uses a positive displacement pump, therefore, the volume
displaced for each rotation of the pump can be measured with an
encoder. When the rotations of the pump equal the volume of
formulation to be dispensed, the controller 148 can turn off the
pump.
[0089] In one embodiment, the controller 148 has circuitry
configured to control the dispenser 112 to dispense a measured
volume of formulation through one or more of the tips only when the
controller 148 senses that the tips are in contact with the
scalp.
[0090] In one embodiment, the controller 148 has circuitry
configured to diagnose scalp and hair conditions related to hair
density, tone, and dryness through a camera or an impedance
sensor.
[0091] In one embodiment, the controller 148 has circuitry
configured to control LEDs to output a certain wavelength and power
for applying a light treatment, to facilitate camera imaging, or be
used to cure formulations.
[0092] In one embodiment, the controller 148 has circuitry
configured to control the vibration of selected individual
tips.
[0093] In one embodiment, the controller 148 has circuitry
configured to control the dispensing of a measure amount of
formulation through selected individual tips only upon detecting
the tips are in contact with the scalp/skin.
[0094] Use of the device 100 is instinctive, the overall shape of
the device 100 is familiar to users from other hair appliances,
such as a hair dryer, leading to simple intuitive use of the device
100. The device 100 can improve on current use of aerosol dry
shampoos. The device 100 contrasts with an aerosol spray can that
sprays more than is needed and produces a large cloud that covers
an area well outside the user's head. Furthermore, the device 100
has tips that allow added functionality.
[0095] While illustrative embodiments have been illustrated and
described, it will be appreciated that various changes can be made
therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the
invention.
* * * * *