FR3151973A1 - Electric facial cleansing and massage device - Google Patents

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a skin cleansing system (1) comprising an electrical device (10) and a brush head (3000), the device (10) comprising a transmission housing (1000) and a support housing (2000) which comprises an electrically powerable motor (200), the transmission housing (1000) comprising a central axis (112) connected to a shaft (119) of the motor (200) which rotates the shaft (119) according to a first rotational movement, the transmission housing (1000) comprising a movable connecting element (107, 108, 109) adapted to transform the first rotational movement of the shaft (119) into a combination of a second rotational movement and a linear movement of the brush head (3000).

Description

Electric facial cleansing and massage device Field of invention

This description relates to the field of skin cleansing devices, and more particularly to electrical devices and systems for cleansing and massaging the face.

Background of the invention

Besides beauty products, skin cleansing devices play a crucial role today in providing a convenient and effective method to remove impurities, makeup residue, and harmful pollutants. Conventional skin care focuses on manually applying specific creams or lotions to the skin, usually using a sponge or brush. However, manual application often does not allow for adequate distribution of lotions on the skin and can be ineffective in removing makeup residue, grease, oils, and other impurities.

In particular, electric skin cleansing devices are playing an increasingly important role in providing deep facial cleansing and massage, which also helps prevent skin problems such as acne while promoting healthier and more radiant skin. In addition, by making makeup removal easier, they improve the effectiveness of other skin care products used, maximizing their benefits for a quick and complete skincare routine.

Thus, various electric skin cleaning devices are known which allow faster cleaning of the face compared to manual cleaning, while limiting the risks of abrasion and other undesirable effects on the skin.

International application WO 2014/106812 relates for example to a skin cleansing device with an oscillating motor and for cleansing the skin by means of pulsations of different frequencies. The outer surface of the device is typically composed of a flexible elastic material, such as silicone, and may have one or more textured surfaces.

Unfortunately, the known devices have many disadvantages.

Electric devices known for facial cleansing have several drawbacks. First, the vibrations of their automated movement propagate from the entire device to the user's hand, causing discomfort throughout the cleaning process. The movements of the heads equipped with these electric devices are generally not suitable for sensitive skin, for example because these heads are driven by movements that are too simple or too fast, in particular simple left-right alternating movements over a limited angular range. In addition, these devices are bulky and heavy, which makes them unsuitable for manual use, which is particularly problematic for easy access to certain parts of the face to be cleaned, for example around the nose or near the ears. The fragility of some devices is another drawback, as the devices themselves and their cleaning heads are prone to breakage and require frequent replacement.

In addition, users have reported increased skin sensitivity after repeated use of these known devices. Often, improper use is due to excessive pressure exerted by the hand or too frequent use. Known devices equipped with a brush also have other disadvantages, particularly in terms of maintaining their cleanliness. Indeed, some devices are combined with a fiber brush, which is a material with a problem of maintaining hygiene over time, particularly in the event of humidification. In an attempt to solve these problems while keeping the surfaces of the device and the brush both dry and clean, some previous solutions have proposed applying cleaning gels to the moving surfaces of the device. However, this approach is neither economical, nor ecological, nor ergonomic. Finally, the latest models of devices often have a high sales price, which makes them less accessible to the general public.

There is therefore a need to improve known devices.

Subject and summary of the invention

In order to address this or these drawbacks, there is proposed according to a first object of the present an electric skin cleaning device comprising an upper housing forming a transmission housing, the electric skin cleaning device further comprising a lower housing forming a support housing, in which:
- the support housing includes an electrically powered motor,
- the transmission housing comprises a central axis connected to a shaft of the motor, the motor being configured to rotate the shaft according to a first rotational movement,
- the transmission housing further comprises a movable connecting element comprising a fastening element, the fastening element being adapted to connect the central axis to a brush head, the movable connecting element being further adapted to transform the first rotational movement of the shaft into a combination of a second rotational movement of the movable connecting element and a linear movement of the movable connecting element.
This allows for an effective cleansing motion that is suitable for facial skin. The combined rotational and linear motion of the brush head, generated by the movable connecting element and the motor, is designed to deeply cleanse the pores of the skin and stimulate blood circulation without irritating the epidermis. It also improves the distribution and effectiveness of a cleansing gel, as well as the adhesion to impurities and makeup residues, thus providing a superior, relaxing and hygienic cleansing experience. In addition, the use of the device can contribute to the improvement of the overall condition of the skin and its natural radiance. This provides better muscle relaxation, dilation of the facial skin and improvement of blood circulation and accelerates cellular metabolism. Finally, the transformation of the rotational motion of the motor into a combination of a rotational motion and a linear motion helps to avoid excessive pressure on the skin, thus minimizing the risk of irritation and damage.

In one embodiment, the connection of the shaft to the central axis is implemented by means of at least one first speed reduction bearing, included in the transmission housing, the at least one first speed reduction bearing comprising at least two pairs of toothed wheels engaged with each other for each pair, and whose number of teeth and/or size increases from one wheel to the other for each toothed wheel of each pair.
This allows the speed and force of rotation of the brush head to be precisely controlled, through the use of at least one first speed reduction step. This provides the ability to tailor the cleaning to the skin type and specific needs of the user. The speed reduction step, by using pairs of gears of different sizes and/or numbers of teeth, provides an optimal speed reduction ratio. This results in a gentler and more effective application of the cleaning force to the skin, thereby minimizing the risk of irritation while maximizing the cleaning efficiency. In addition, it could extend the life of the motor, as it can operate at higher and therefore potentially more effective speeds, while maintaining a rotation of the brush head at a speed suitable for cleaning the skin.

In one embodiment, the connection of the shaft to the central axis is implemented by means of at least one second speed reduction bearing, the second speed reduction bearing being distinct from the at least one first speed reduction bearing and comprising an oscillating arm adapted to rotate about the central axis.
This allows for greater flexibility and adaptability in controlling the movement of the brush head. By using at least a second speed reduction stage, distinct from the first, which includes an oscillating arm capable of rotating about the central axis, the appliance can perform a variety of movements that can be adapted to meet specific cleaning needs.

In one embodiment, the swing arm comprises at least one flat blade extending away from the central axis, the at least one flat blade being provided with a slot adapted to cooperate transversely with a pin, the pin being arranged on an upper surface of a toothed wheel of the at least one first speed reduction bearing and at a predetermined distance from an axis of rotation of this toothed wheel.
This enables a more precise and efficient motion transformation from the first speed reduction stage to the swing arm. Due to the transverse cooperation between the slot of the flat blade and the pin arranged on the gear wheel, the rotary motion of the gear wheel is reliably and efficiently converted into a swinging motion of the arm.

In one embodiment, the movable connecting element comprises a fixed sleeve, a sliding sleeve and a fastening element, the fixed sleeve being integral with the central axis and the sliding sleeve being integral with the fastening element, the transformation of the first rotational movement of the shaft into the combination of the second rotational movement of the movable connecting element and the linear movement of the movable connecting element generating a continuous horizontal rotary movement and an alternating vertical movement of the sliding sleeve and the fastening element along the central axis relative to the fixed sleeve.
This helps provide a more complete and thorough cleansing motion of the skin. In particular, the reciprocating vertical motion helps to dislodge skin particles or impurities that are difficult to reach with a rotary motion alone. In addition, the fixed and sliding sleeve arrangement contributes to greater robustness and reliability of the device, ensuring that the parts are held in the proper position and minimizing the risk of failure or premature wear.

In one embodiment, the length, width and height of the device are each between 50 and 70 millimeters.

In one embodiment, the upper housing and the lower housing are formed as a single piece, and each have dimensions of between 30 and 160 millimeters.
This ensures a compact size of the device for comfortable grip and easy maneuverability, which improves the efficiency and user experience when using the skin cleansing device. In addition, these dimensions allow for increased portability, making it easier to transport the device. In addition, such a format could also reduce material and shipping costs, and minimize the space requirement for storage.

In one embodiment, the upper housing and/or the lower housing includes a processor or microprocessor, also referred to as a motherboard, configured to control operation of the motor and providing means for controlling the device and the system when a brush head is attached to the device.
This allows the operation of the device and system to be effectively controlled and coordinated with the brush head for user-friendly and personalized use.

In one embodiment, the upper housing includes a ring cover attachable to the transmission housing to close the latter, the ring cover being adapted to cooperate with a brush head engaged on the socket.
This helps protect the internal components of the transmission housing, such as the motor and the speed reduction bearings, from external damage and exposure to water or dirt that could compromise their operation. In addition, by allowing cooperation with a brush head engaged on the socket, it facilitates the changing of the brush head, thus allowing greater flexibility in the use of the skin cleansing system described below according to the specific needs of the user.

In a specific embodiment, the lower housing includes a rear cover attachable or adhesively bondable directly to the rear face of the support housing with a hermetic seal.
This makes the device watertight against water infiltration, protecting it against accidental splashes and allowing safe use underwater, such as in a bath or shower.

In one embodiment, the motor is powered by a battery located in the support housing and/or by an external power supply with a voltage between 2 and 20 volts.
This allows for optimum flexibility in powering the device, with the ability to use either an internal battery for portable use or an external power supply when available. In addition, the device is capable of accepting a range of voltages between 2 and 20 volts for external power, allowing its use with different power sources in various situations.

According to a second object of the present invention, there is provided a brush head adapted to cooperate by assembly with the electric skin cleaning device, the brush head comprising a first surface provided with a first surface density of bristles and at least one second surface distinct from the first surface, a second surface density of bristles different from the first surface density providing the second surface.
This allows for greater adaptability and customization of skin cleansing according to the user's specific needs. The presence of two surfaces with different surface densities of bristles on the brush head allows for varying levels of cleansing or exfoliation to be applied to different areas of the face or body, thus providing more complete and personalized skin care.

In one embodiment, the bristles of the first surface and/or of the at least one second surface are made of silicone and an ionic powder selected from an ionic silver powder, an ionic zinc powder, an ionic copper powder, an ionic titanium powder and/or an ionic zirconium powder.
This provides an antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effect when using the skin cleansing device. Silver, zinc, copper, titanium and/or zirconium ions are known for their antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. The incorporation of these ions into the silicone bristles therefore increases the effectiveness of skin cleansing by helping to reduce inflammation and eliminate bacteria present on the skin. This feature is particularly useful for people suffering from skin conditions such as acne or rosacea.

There is provided according to a third object hereof an electric skin cleaning system comprising the brush head according to any one of the previously described embodiments, the electric skin cleaning system further comprising the electric skin cleaning device according to any one of the previously described embodiments, the brush head being assembled with the electric skin cleaning device by means of the attachment element.

In one embodiment, the method of implementing the electrical system comprises the following steps:
S0) activating the system by continuous pressing of a power button of the electric cleaning device, the continuous pressing of the power button automatically triggering a step S1) comprising a first preconfigured movement of the motor, the first preconfigured movement rotating the brush head for a first predetermined duration “T1”, and
S4) automatic deactivation of the engine at the end of the first predetermined duration.
This makes the skin cleansing device easier to use for the user and optimizes the duration of the cleansing session. Automatically activating the motor with a continuous press of the power button makes the device easier and more intuitive to use. In addition, the fact that the motor automatically stops at the end of a predetermined duration prevents the user from overusing the device, which could potentially cause skin irritation. In addition, this helps preserve the device's battery and optimizes its lifespan.

In one embodiment, the method of implementing the electrical system further comprises the following steps:
S3) application of the brush head of the system to a part of the skin or face of a user of the electric skin cleansing system before the end of the first predetermined duration,
S5) system pause by single click of power button system restart by single click of power button, and/or
S6) deactivation of the motor by another continuous press, during the first or during the second predetermined duration, of the power button, the deactivation of the motor ending all rotation of the brush head.
This provides the user with greater flexibility and control over the use of the skin cleansing device. The option to pause and resume the system with a single click of the power button allows the user to pause and resume cleansing at their convenience, without having to restart the entire process. Additionally, the ability to deactivate the motor at any time with another continuous press of the power button allows the user to stop cleansing instantly when needed or when inconvenienced, providing greater comfort and safety when using the device.

Brief description of the figures

Other features, details and advantages will become apparent upon reading the detailed description below, and upon analysis of the attached drawings, in which:

There illustrates a perspective view of an electric skin cleansing system according to one embodiment of the invention.

There illustrates a top view of the elements that comprise a transmission housing of an electric skin cleaning device according to one embodiment of the invention.

There illustrates a perspective view of the elements that comprise a transmission housing of an electric skin cleaning device according to one embodiment of the invention.

There illustrates a perspective view of the elements that comprise an electric skin cleaning device according to one embodiment of the invention.

There illustrates a side view of an electric skin cleansing device, without a brush head, according to one embodiment of the invention.

There illustrates a perspective view of an electric skin cleansing device, without a brush head, according to one embodiment of the invention.

There illustrates a perspective view of a cover for a transmission housing of an electric skin cleaning device according to one embodiment of the invention.

There illustrates a perspective view of a sliding sleeve for an electric skin cleansing device according to one embodiment of the invention.

There illustrates another perspective view of a sliding sleeve for an electric skin cleansing device according to one embodiment of the invention.

There illustrates a perspective view of a fixed sleeve for an electric skin cleansing device according to one embodiment of the invention.

There illustrates a perspective view of a first brush head according to one embodiment of the invention.

There illustrates a top view of the first brush head according to one embodiment of the invention.

There illustrates a perspective view of a second brush head according to one embodiment of the invention.

There illustrates a top view of the second brush head according to one embodiment of the invention.

There illustrates steps of a method of implementing the electric skin cleaning system according to one embodiment of the invention.

Unless otherwise indicated, elements common or similar to several figures bear the same reference signs and have identical or similar characteristics, so that these common elements are generally not described again for the sake of simplicity.

There represents a skin cleaning apparatus in a perspective view and in accordance with the embodiments hereof.

According to one embodiment of the invention, an electric cleaning system 1 is illustrated for cleaning the face or parts of the face. The system 1 comprises an electric facial cleaning device 10 and a brush head 3000 securely attached to the device 10. The brush head 3000 is detachable from the device 10 to facilitate transport, storage, treatment and especially maintenance after each use.

The device 10 comprises an upper housing 1000, called the transmission housing 1000. The device 10 further comprises a lower housing 2000, called the support housing 2000. The upper housing 1000 and the lower housing 2000 are preferably formed as a single piece, although in some embodiments it is possible to assemble the upper housing 1000 to the lower housing 2000 as separate pieces, for example with glue. The support housing 2000 comprises an external input 400 for connecting the device 10 to a cable, as well as one or more buttons (not shown), including at least one power button.

According to one embodiment, the upper housing 1000 and/or the lower housing 2000 may also comprise light-emitting diodes.

Optionally, a graphical interface can be included in one of these two boxes.

The dimensions of the device 10, and thus the dimensions of the electrical cleaning system 1 from which the brush head 3000 is detached or omitted, are preferably between 40 and 140 millimeters. Preferably, the length, width and height of the device are of different values and between 50 and 70 millimeters, with a preferred length of 65 millimeters, a preferred width of 55.5 millimeters and a preferred height of 66.5 millimeters.

The shapes and dimensions of the brush heads may vary depending on the embodiments. Preferably, the dimensions are typically of the same order of magnitude, and between 20 and 200 millimeters. For example, a circular brush head usable with the device 10 has a diameter of 40 to 70 millimeters and a height of between 5 and 20 millimeters.

This provides an easy-to-use, space-saving facial cleansing device that can be used for several minutes.

Figures 2 and 3 show a transmission housing 1000 of an electric skin cleaning device 10 according to one embodiment of the invention, in a top view and a perspective view, respectively.

Located below the transmission housing 1000 and connected thereto, a motor 200 (not visible) generates the rotation of an axle or a wheel provided with pinions, called a gear. The motor 200 is integrated into the transmission housing 1000, the support housing 2000 or both if the housings 1000 and 2000 are formed in a single piece.

The motor 200 (not visible) comprises a shaft 119 located at least partially in the transmission housing 1000, the motor 200 and this shaft 119 being adapted so that the shaft 119 rotates on itself according to one or more predetermined rotation speeds. These predetermined rotation speeds are transmitted to the shaft 119 by the motor 200, which itself is controllable by the motherboard 500 which is preferably preconfigured.

The motor 200 (not visible) is fixed to the transmission housing 1000 and/or to the support housing 2000 by means of several screws, for example three screws (not shown) insertable and fixable in blind holes of the transmission housing 1000, for example the holes 131a and 131b, and a pinion 134 is connected to, or pressed onto, the shaft 119 of the motor 200.

The pinion 134 is thus connected to the motor 200 so that the predetermined rotation speed(s) are transmitted to it via the shaft 119 of the motor.

According to one embodiment, the pinion 134 is a gear comprising at least two toothed wheels, so as to reduce by at least two times the speed of the rotational movement provided by the motor 200.

According to one embodiment, in the transmission housing 1000, a double gear, which comprises two toothed wheels 115 and 116 mounted one on top of the other, is assembled in another blind hole of the transmission housing 1000. The upper wheel 115 is smaller than the lower wheel 116, and comprises fewer teeth. A bearing (not visible, because located under the element 114) is mounted in yet another blind hole of larger size and located along an edge of the transmission housing 1000. The element 114, which is a toothed wheel of larger size than the wheels 115 and 116, is mounted on this bearing and along a shaft 130 of the element 114, which defines the axis of rotation of the wheel 114. Optionally, an opening device (not visible) can be arranged in a slot of the shaft 130.

The pinion 134 thus drives the wheel 116 which, in turn, turns the wheel 115 which itself drives the wheel 114, which makes it possible to reduce a second time the speed of the rotational movement provided by the motor 200.

Passing substantially through a middle of the transmission housing 1000, a central axis 112 is provided to fit into a hole, for example a blind hole, located in the center of the transmission housing 1000. The central axis 112, also called a shaft, allows the transmission of the movement generated by the motor 200 to the brush head 3000 when the latter is connected or attached to the device 10, this movement comprising a rotational movement and a tapping movement, as described below.

To achieve this, a swing arm 127 having a central circular hole is provided to be inserted along the central axis 112. The swing arm 127 comprises a blade 129, which itself comprises a slot 133, defining an oscillating rotating device. The slot 133 is provided to slidably fit a pin or pivot 136 of diameter slightly less than the width of the slot 133, the pivot 136 being located near an edge of the element 114.

In operation, the shaft 119 and the pinion 134 rotating together, the wheels 116, 115 and 114 are driven so that the oscillating arm 127 is rotated about the central axis 112 in an oscillating manner. The oscillating arm 127, the blade 129, its slot 133 thus generate with the pivot 136 an oscillating sweeping movement, which is a function of the movement of an eccentric point defined by the pivot 136 anchored on the element 114.

This allows a non-uniform circular motion to be defined so that the pivot 136 describes a circular trajectory around the axis of the element 114, but so that its angular velocity is not constant. This results in variations in the distance between the pivot and the axis 130 of the element 114 over time, the movement of which affects the rotating blade 129. This movement of the oscillating arm 127 is transmitted directly to the central axis 112 and/or to any element attached thereto.

Optionally, a bearing (not visible) is mounted on or around the central axis 112.

There illustrates a perspective view of the elements located inside an electric cleaning system 1 comprising both the transmission housing 1000 and the support housing 2000 together forming the electric skin cleaning device 10, to which is presently attached a brush head 3000 according to one embodiment of the invention.

The upper housing 1000 and/or the lower housing 2000 comprise a processor 500, also called a microelectronic circuit or motherboard 500, configured to control the operation of the motor 200, and thereby providing means for controlling the device 10 and the system 1 when a brush head 3000 is attached to the device 10.

The motherboard 500 is for example a printed circuit board used as a central component in a computer. The card 500 is designed to accommodate and interconnect different elements, such as electronic chips, microprocessors, light-emitting diodes and other essential components. Thanks to its structure, its conductive tracks and/or connection cables (not visible) in the device 10, the motherboard 500 allows the circulation of electrical signals between the different parts of the device 10, thus ensuring communication and coordination between its different elements. The motherboard 500 especially makes it possible to interpret the pressures applied by a user to buttons (not visible) for controlling the device 10 and to convert them into electrical signals defining the operation of the motor 200. The motherboard 500 can also include pre-recorded instructions defining one or more operating modes of the motor 200 not requiring the direct intervention of a user, since these modes are pre-programmed.

The upper housing 1000 also includes a connecting element, or attachment element, which allows the transmission of the movement generated by the motor 200 to a brush head 3000 when the latter is connected or attached to the device 10. As illustrated, the element connected or attached to the central axis 112, and to which the movement of the oscillating arm 127 is transmitted, corresponds to a socket 120. In addition to the socket 120 and according to examples, along or in the central axis 115, a pin, a clip, a retaining rod and/or any type of rigid axis can be inserted for connecting or attaching the transmission housing 1000 to an intermediate or upper part of the system 1.

As illustrated, the socket 120 is adapted to connect and/or attach the transmission housing 1000 to the brush head 3000. The central axis 112 further comprises a hollow portion in which the pin, the clip, the holding rod and/or the rigid axis is insertable, improving the attachment of the intermediate or upper part of the system 1, in particular the brush head 3000. This facilitates the addition or removal of add-on elements at the top of the transmission housing 1000, the rotational movement generated by the motor and the gears of the housing 1000 can then be communicated directly to this add-on element. When it is a brush head 3000, it is easy to remove or detach it from the device 10. This detachment can be done when the system is operating, but it is preferable to do so when it is stopped.

According to one embodiment, and as illustrated, the motor 200 is integrated into the transmission housing 1000 formed in one piece with the support housing 2000. The motor 200 is powered or can be powered by a battery of the device 10 and/or by an external power supply (not shown). The battery of the device 10 is preferably located in the support housing 2000 of the device 10.

Preferably, the frequency of the motor is between 3000 and 7500 revolutions per minute, and preferably 6000 revolutions per minute. The gear combination described above makes it possible to obtain two optimal reductions of this frequency, and therefore of the final rotation speed of the device 10. Given the dimensions of the device 1 and the housings 1000 and 2000, desired to be compact, the implementation of at least two speed reduction stages or steps makes it possible to obtain an adequate rotation speed for scanning the face with a brush head 3000 mounted above the central axis 112 with a single rotational movement.

The gears defined by the wheels 114, 115, 116 and the presence of these at least two reduction bearings are therefore important. The presence of a single reduction bearing would lead to too rapid a rotational movement of the brush head 300 and/or to larger pinion and gear dimensions, which would require designing a device 10, and therefore a system 1, much larger and therefore more cumbersome than what the present embodiments propose.

The housings 1000 and 2000 may each include various additional features, such as a plurality of button gaskets connected to buttons disposed on an outer wall of the housing and operable by a user, said buttons corresponding, or a battery or cell mounted on or in the support housing 2000.

In one embodiment, at least one counterweight 106 is placed in the housing 1000 or in the housing 2000, preferably under the transmission housing 1000, and in front of the motor 200. This allows the weight of the motor 200 to be balanced in order to provide a balanced and easier to use massage device. In various possibilities, the counterweight 106 can be fixed in slots located on either side of the housing 2000.

In the lower part of the housing 2000 is located the motherboard 500, providing means for controlling the device. According to different embodiments, the motherboard 500 may comprise a backlight board snapped into one or more holes provided for this purpose. Preferably, the backlight board 23 is attached to a support of the motherboard 500, the backlight board being attached to the motherboard 500 via soldering tabs. The motherboard 500 further comprises an input 400 for an electrical connection or charging cable, which makes it possible to connect the motherboard 500 to an external cable, for example a USB cable. In particular, a charging mode by USB-C connection is allowed, making this charging possible from a USB socket of a mobile device, for example. Control of the system 1 and the device 10 is possible by means of a human-machine interface arranged on or in the transmission housing 1000 and/or the support housing 2000.

In one embodiment, the electrical skin cleansing device 1 further comprises a battery (not shown), for example a cell, and preferably a lithium cell with a nominal capacity greater than or equal to 900 mAh. Thus, the electrical device 1 can be powered with a nominal charging voltage of between 2 and 20 volts, preferably 5-20 volts. Similarly, this allows the electrical device 1 to operate with a nominal voltage preferably of between 2 and 12 volts, preferably 3.7 or 5 volts, and with a maximum operating current of 500 mA, the maximum operating current preferably being less than 500 mA. For example, a maximum power that can thus be provided is preferably less than 1.7 watts, based on an operating current of less than 450 mA for a nominal operating voltage of 3.7 volts.

In use, and for example, a minimum starting voltage and/or low battery warning voltage is for example 3.3 volts, which is a lower value than the nominal operating voltage, of 3.7 volts.

In one embodiment, the electrical skin cleaning device 1 is adapted to be watertight. Its body, shells and/or external surfaces are thus designed to be watertight. In particular, the structure and materials of the device 1 are selected so that the device 1 resists jets of water projected against it at a pressure not exceeding 30 kilopascals, which is equivalent to approximately 3 meters of distance.

In one embodiment, the electrical skin cleansing system 1 is adapted to withstand complete immersion in water up to 1 meter deep for up to 30 minutes. This means that it can be used safely in conditions of partial or complete immersion in water, such as, for example, under water in a shower or in the event of an accidental fall into bath water.

In one embodiment, and to increase the hermetic nature thereof, the support housing 2000 comprises a rear cover 125 attachable or glueable directly to the rear face of the support housing 2000 with a hermetic seal 124.

Figures 5 and 6 show an electric skin cleansing device 10 according to one embodiment of the invention, in a top view and a perspective view, respectively, without a brush head, that is, no brush head is placed on (or attached to) the socket 120 of the transmission housing 1000.

At the upper part of the device 1, and for its assembly, the transmission housing 1000 is closable by means of a ring cover 102, for example provided to fit by sliding along an optional sliding ring. The sliding ring is preferably arranged vertically around the sleeve 120, which is adapted to cooperate with a brush head 3000.

There illustrates a perspective view of a cover 1100 intended to be placed on the upper part of the transmission housing 1000 of an electric skin cleaning device 10 according to one embodiment of the invention.

In the closed position, in particular, the cover 1100 is mounted on the transmission housing 1000 and can be fixed securely to the latter by means of at least two, and preferably three, screws (not shown) insertable into the holes 128a, 128b and 128c provided to accommodate them. Each hole is intended to accommodate a screw for fixing the cover.

According to one embodiment, and at the hole in the middle of the cover 1100, a seal 109, a fixed sleeve 107 and a sliding sleeve 108 aligned around the central axis 112 are mounted. The sleeve 120 is adapted to engage above the fixed sleeve 107 and the sliding sleeve 108.

The central axis 112 is connected to a main shaft which pivots, driving the sliding sleeve 108 in a corresponding movement.

Figures 8 and 9 illustrate perspective views of a sliding sleeve 108 for the electric skin cleansing device 10 according to one embodiment of the invention. illustrates a perspective view of a fixed sleeve 107 according to one embodiment of the invention, and adapted to cooperate with the sliding sleeve 108, for this same device 1.

The fixed sleeve 107 has the shape of a ring with a diameter larger than the diameter of the base of the sliding sleeve 108. Spiral grooves 108a and 108b (not visible in the figure, but located on the other side of 108a), or in a “zigzag” shape, are formed on either side of the base of the sliding sleeve 108, and are intended to cooperate with lateral cylinders, called grooves 107a and 107b, formed around an inner circumference of the fixed sleeve 107. These grooves 107a and 107b, preferably two in number and diametrically opposed on the inner circumference of the fixed sleeve 107, are intended to engage in the grooves 108a and 108b respectively, and point towards the middle of the circle formed by the circumference of the fixed sleeve 107.

When engaged in the respective grooves 108a and 108b, and the splines 107a and 107b of the fixed sleeve 107 remaining stationary during operation of the motor 200 and therefore rotation of the central axis 112, the sliding sleeve 108 is rotated. The grooves 108a and 108b then move relative to each other, while the columns 107a and 107b drive the sliding sleeve 108 on the one hand in a rotational movement with the same speed as that of the central axis 112 and, on the other hand, in an additional vertical and reciprocating movement from top to bottom.

Although only two splines and two grooves are illustrated, in various embodiments one spline or more than two may be provided. Similarly, the number of grooves is highly preferably equal to the number of splines, so that each spline corresponds to a groove. In this case, the given and equal number of splines and grooves is preferably distributed along the circumference of the fixed sleeve 107 with a separation angle equal to 360° divided by the given number.

The transmission of a rotational movement by the central axis 112 allows, by the movement of the grooves 108a and 108b in relative rotation around the central axis 112, to generate a "zigzag movement", also called "back-and-forth movement" from the top to the bottom of the sliding sleeve 108, by means of the cooperation of the stationary splines 107a and 107b engaged in these grooves 108a and 108b. This movement is a type of vertical movement, where the movable sleeve 108 moves vertically upwards with a positive acceleration before falling directly downwards to its initial position at the fixed sleeve 107. This alternating movement is reproduced as long as the motor operates at a given speed.

This allows the transmission housing 1000 of the electrical device 10 to provide, to a brush head 3000 engaged on the socket 120 (or another add-on element), a rotational movement combined with a tapping movement, the tapping frequency being dependent on the rotation frequency. A device or system allowing the implementation of this combination of movements is subsequently called a deep cleaning massage system or, in English, “DMC” for “Deep Massage Cleansing System”.

Surprisingly, it was found that this allows for a particularly effective movement of the brush head when applied to a user's face, by combining, on the one hand, a lateral sweep (left-right) of the face with the brush head and this with an optimal rotation speed for facial cleansing and, on the other hand, a vertical tapping (up-down) of the face with the brush head and this with an optimal frequency for a simultaneous massage of the same area of the face. This reproduces the movements of human fingers used in Asian Kobido massages, creating rapid and repetitive tapping that generates pleasant sensations and stimulates blood circulation in the skin, thereby promoting muscle relaxation, also improving the tone and elasticity of the tapped skin. This further reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.

According to one embodiment, the vertical axial notch of the sliding sleeve 108 is adapted to allow the insertion of a rod, which itself allows the securing of a brush head 3000 above the housing 1000. Optionally, this securing is achieved by clipping.

According to various embodiments, the materials used to form the parts of the transmission housing 1000, of the support housing 2000, or of their various components, and in particular the materials used to form the sleeves 107 and/or 108, are chosen from various types of polymers, for example thermoplastic polymers which have the advantage of having excellent wear resistance, high rigidity and good dimensional stability. According to various variants, these materials can also be chosen from nylon, a nylon blend or even glass fibre, in particular to form the housings or the shell of the housings.

This makes it possible to provide an electrical skin cleaning system partially made of materials which are both resistant, strong and light compared to materials known in the same field.

Preferably, a preferred polymer for forming the sliding sleeve 108 (or other parts) is polyoxymethylene, also referred to as "POM", Delrin or acetal. The use of POM to form the elements of the device 10 provides a lighter weight alternative to steel for the manufacture and use of precision parts, such as the seals, pinions and gears previously described. In addition to providing adequate mechanical strength for forming the elements of the device 10, polyoxymethylene (POM) is approximately 5.5 times lighter than conventional steel on average, making it an optimal choice for applications requiring both strength and light weight.

Surprisingly, the zigzag shape of 108a and 108b combined with materials selected from thermoplastic polymers such as POM for 108 and/or 107 significantly reduces friction problems such as impact, wear or unwanted heating of the device 10 due to its operation.

Figures 11 and 12 illustrate a first example of a brush head 3000 adapted to cooperate with an electric skin cleaning device and to form a corresponding electric cleaning system. Figures 13 and 14 illustrate a second example of a brush head 3010 adapted to cooperate with an electric skin cleaning device and to form a corresponding electric cleaning system. The brush heads 3000 and 3010 comprise in particular, on their lower part (not visible), a notch or a hooking element adapted to cooperate with the central axis 112 or the socket 120 of the device 10.

As illustrated, the first example of a brush head 3000 has a circular and/or oval shape depending on its diameter or height. Advantageously, an oval-shaped brush head makes it possible to improve the maneuverability of the brush when using it on the different parts of the face, and especially to optimize cleaning at the level of the nasolabial folds or the nose. The brush head 3000 comprises a first inner circular part 3100, two second outer annular parts 3200a and 3200b, as well as a third central floral part 3300. In the first inner circular part 3100, the bristles are slightly wider and shorter than the bristles in the third central floral part 3300. The variable sizes of the bristles in this first inner circular part 3100 make it possible to provide optimal contact with the face. In the two second outer annular portions 3200a and 3200b, the bristles are defined as being wider and harder, and distributed in a fan shape, which makes it possible to improve the cleaning of the parts of the face where the user desires a greater effect, for example by tilting the brush head laterally in use at blackheads on the nose. In the third floral central portion 3300, the bristles are arranged in a regular and dense manner around the middle of the brush head 3000 and on the surface of the brush head.

The bristles distributed on a brush head adapted to cooperate with the electric skin cleaning device 10 to form a corresponding electric cleaning system 1 are preferably made of silicone. Other types of materials can however be used to make the bristles of the brush head, for example nylon, microfibers, plant fibers or even bristles made of charcoal and/or bamboo fibers.

According to one embodiment, the density of bristles in the first circular portion 3100 is greater than the density of bristles in the two second outer annular portions 3200a and 3200b.

Surprisingly, it was observed that a distribution of the silicone bristles or pins in this way is equivalent to the manner of a “Sakura flower”, and allows for optimal and gentle cleaning of the face during the movement of the brush head 3000 attached to the device 1 when the latter is in operation.

Mathematically expressing the position of each bristle on the brush head 3000 using polar coordinates defined by an angle "theta" and a distance "r" (radius) from the origin of the circle, a predetermined number "n" of bristles uniformly distributed around the center is defined. The angle between the uniformly distributed bristles is mathematically obtained by dividing the full circle by "n" equal sectors, such that the angle "delta" between two adjacent bristles will be equal to 360 degrees divided by "n". The polar coordinates of the bristles can then be expressed as a function of the angle "theta" and the radius "r", since each bristle will then have a coordinate ("r", "theta"). In the case of the bristle numbered "n", the coordinates are defined by ("r", ("n"-1) * "delta") with "delta" therefore being equal to 360°/ "n".

In order to create different types of hair distribution, one can have a first density of hairs with coordinates (“r1”, “theta”) if located in the first inner circular part 3100, and different densities of hairs with distinct polar coordinates if these hairs are located in other parts, for example the second parts 3200a and 3200b, or the third part 3300.

In a real Sakura flower, the petals are not perfectly uniform, so the radius "r" can be varied for each hair. We can thus foresee a sequence of successive parts 3100, 3200, etc. in which the radius varies progressively. In these different cases, the distribution of hairs in the shape of a Sakura flower can be described by a set of polar coordinates for each pin, where the coordinates are determined by an angle between adjacent hairs and a radius "r" which can vary slightly for each hair.

As illustrated, the second exemplary brush head 3010 has a circular shape and includes different densities and sizes of bristles, preferably silicone, distributed in different quadrants of the surface of the brush head 3010.

For example, a first upper quadrant 3310 and a second lower quadrant 3410 of the surface of the brush head 3010 comprise an identical density and size of silicone bristles, while a central horizontal strip 3110 comprises a particular pattern of silicone bristles. Outside the quadrants 3310 and 3410 as well as outside the central horizontal strip 3110, a uniform and regular circular distribution of the silicone bristles is defined from the center of the brush head 3010. It is thus possible to define different patterns or symbols that appear visible to the user of the system 1 when the latter is stopped and/or in operation, thereby warning the user of the state of the system 1 in a visual manner.

According to various embodiments, the oval shape and the material of the brush head 3000 (or 3010) are such that the brush head can easily be combined with a cleansing gel.

For example, for facial cleansing, the brush heads can be combined with a cleansing gel based on vegetable oil such as coconut oil, which helps gently dissolve makeup residue and impurities. A chamomile extract to soothe the skin can also be combined, as can vegetable glycerin to moisturize and preserve the suppleness of the bristles of the brush head or demineralized or purified water to define a cleansing gel base. Other types of natural cleansing gels enriched with plant extracts can also be used and chosen from rose floral water, aloe extract, lavender extract or green tea extract.

Silicone bristles, soft and non-abrasive in nature, are specifically designed to provide effective and gentle cleansing of the skin, while promoting better distribution of a cleansing gel and improved adhesion to impurities and makeup residue. The optimized configuration of the silicone bristles ensures delicate stimulation of the skin, thus promoting blood circulation and cell renewal, while preserving the integrity of the epidermis and minimizing the risk of irritation. This results in a superior, relaxing and hygienic cleansing experience, suitable for daily use for facial care, thus contributing to the improvement of the general condition of the skin and its natural radiance.

There illustrates the steps of a method of implementing the electric skin cleaning system 1, or equivalently a method of using the latter, according to one or more embodiments of the invention.

A use or method of implementing the electric skin cleansing system 1 comprises the following steps:

S0) activation of the system 1 by continuous pressure of a power button (not shown) of the electric cleaning device 10, the electric facial cleaning device 10 automatically triggering a step S1) comprising a preconfigured movement of the brush head 3000 for a first predetermined duration “T1”, said movement being called “mode 1” or “standard cleaning mode”,

S3) optionally, applying system 1 to a portion of a user's skin or face before the end of the first predetermined duration, and
S4) automatic deactivation of system 1 at the end of the first predetermined duration,

S2.

Optionally, when the standard cleansing mode is active, a light emitting diode (not shown) of the electric facial cleansing device 10 emits white light, preferably warm white light, to inform the user of the operation of the electric skin cleansing system in that specific mode.

According to one embodiment, the continuous pressure of the ignition button to activate the system 1 is implemented for a duration of time between 1 and 5 seconds, preferably 1, 2 or 3 seconds, without releasing the ignition button.

According to one embodiment, the first predetermined duration “T1” is between 30 and 120 seconds, preferably 60 seconds, 70 seconds or 90 seconds.

According to an optional embodiment, the method of implementing the electric skin cleaning system 1 further comprises the following step, after the activation step S0) and before the application step S3):

S2) by double pressing the power button (not shown) of the electric cleaning device 10, triggering another preconfigured movement of the brush head 3000 for a second predetermined duration “T2”, this other preconfigured movement being called “mode 2” or “secondary cleaning mode”, which ends automatically at the end of the second predetermined duration.

According to one embodiment, the double press of the ignition button is implemented for a time duration of between 0 and 3 seconds, preferably 0.5 seconds, 1 second or 1.5 seconds.

According to one embodiment, the second predetermined duration “T2” is between 120 and 240 seconds, preferably 125 seconds, 150 seconds, or 180 seconds.

This makes it possible to provide at least two operating modes of the system 1, in particular a low-speed massage mode and a high-speed cleaning mode, the transition from one mode to the other being done very simply by double-clicking on a single button of the device button 10.

According to one embodiment, and defining a “clean mode” of the electrical system 1 as associating a value of 100% with the number of revolutions per minute of the engine, for example 1000 revolutions per minute, the “secondary cleaning mode” comprises a “massage mode” associated with a value of 75% of the clean mode.

According to possible embodiments, other operating modes may be added, for example a “mode 3” associated with a third predetermined duration “T3”, a “mode 4”, etc. the rotation speed associated with the preconfigured movements of the brush head during each predetermined duration may be different. It is thus possible to switch from one mode to the other successively by quickly pressing the power button twice.

Optionally, when the secondary cleansing mode is active, or another mode, the LED or other light emitting diode (not shown) of the electric facial cleansing device 10 emits a yellow light, preferably a gold light, to inform the user of the operation of the electric skin cleansing system in that specific mode.

According to a non-illustrated embodiment, the method of implementing the electric skin cleaning system 1 further comprises:

S5) pausing and/or restarting system 1 by a single click of the power button, and/or

S6) deactivation of the system 1 by continuous pressure, during the first or during the second predetermined duration, of the power button (not shown) of the electric cleaning device 10, the electric facial cleaning device 10 then stopping all movement of the brush head 3000.

According to one embodiment, the aforementioned light-emitting diode(s) may also be configured to emit light when the electric facial cleansing device 10 is being electrically charged, for example when it is plugged into the mains by connection to an external cable via the external input 400.

According to one embodiment, the aforementioned light-emitting diode(s) may also be configured to emit a second light, in particular red light, when the charge level of the battery of the electric facial cleansing device 10 is low, for example when the remaining electrical energy of the electric skin cleansing system 1 only allows it to operate for a limited duration.

According to one embodiment, step S4) of deactivating the system 1 or the motor 200 is also implemented automatically when the brush head 3000 of the system 1 is subjected to a pressure greater than a maximum pressure value, called the pressure threshold, this pressure being transmitted to the device 10.

According to different embodiments, the pressure threshold is between 1 and 3 Kgf.cm, for example 1.5 Kgf.cm.

This helps to correct and improve the way of cleaning the face and to better protect the face while cleaning well and deeply. This also helps to prevent the user from pressing too hard on their face with system 1, which would increase the risk of damage to the skin over time.

According to this same embodiment, when the light-emitting diode(s) are configured to emit the second light, in particular red light, this or these light-emitting diode(s) are further configured to emit this second light intermittently or flashingly when the brush head 3000 of the system 1 is subjected to a pressure greater than the pressure threshold.

When this excessive pressure is eliminated or made absent, the system 1 can be configured so as to resume the previously ongoing movement of the brush head 3000 which had been interrupted.

For example, when a user presses too hard on his face with the brush head and therefore with the system 1, the mechanical stresses increase on the motor, as a result of which the electrical resistance of the electrical circuit of the system 1 also increases. This has the effect of varying the operating electrical voltage of the system 1, configured so that in the event of a threshold electrical voltage value being passed, the internal software of the system 1 is notified of the passing of this voltage threshold. When such a detection is carried out, the internal software of the system 1 is configured to deactivate the rotation for a predetermined time interval, for example several seconds. Then, and when the operating electrical voltage of the system 1 falls below this voltage threshold, the internal software of the system 1 can perform a temporary restart in order to check whether the electrical resistance has decreased in the meantime, which is the case if the user had the reflex to move the brush head away from his face during the safety shutdown of the system 1.

Although the present invention is illustrated and described with reference to preferred embodiments and specific examples, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that other embodiments and examples may perform similar functions and/or achieve similar results.

Claims (15)

An electric skin cleaning device (10) comprising an upper housing (1000) forming a transmission housing, the electric skin cleaning device (10) further comprising a lower housing (2000) forming a support housing, wherein:
- the support housing (2000) comprises an electrically powerable motor (200),
- the transmission housing (1000) comprises a central axis (112) connected to a shaft (119) of the motor (200), the motor (200) being configured to rotate the shaft (119) according to a first rotational movement,
- the transmission housing (1000) further comprises a movable connecting element (107, 108, 109, 120) comprising a fastening element (120), the fastening element (120) being adapted to connect the central axis (112) to a brush head (3000; 3010), the movable connecting element (107, 108, 109, 120) being further adapted to transform the first rotational movement of the shaft (119) into a combination of a second rotational movement of the movable connecting element (107, 108, 109, 120) and a linear movement of the movable connecting element (107, 108, 109, 120).
An electric skin cleansing device (10) according to claim 1, wherein the connection of the shaft (119) to the central axis (112) is implemented by means of at least one first speed reduction bearing (114, 115, 134, 116), included in the transmission housing (1000), the at least one first speed reduction bearing (114, 115, 134, 116) comprising at least two pairs of toothed wheels (134, 116; 115, 114) engaged with each other for each pair, and whose number of teeth and/or size increases from one wheel to the other for each toothed wheel of each pair.
An electric skin cleansing device (10) according to claim 2, wherein the connection of the shaft (119) to the central axis (112) is implemented by means of at least one second speed reduction bearing (127, 129, 133, 136), the second speed reduction bearing being distinct from the at least one first speed reduction bearing (114, 115, 134, 116, 127, 129, 133, 136) and comprising an oscillating arm (127) adapted to rotate about the central axis (112).
An electric skin cleansing device (10) according to claim 3, the oscillating arm (127) comprising at least one flat blade (129) extending away from the central axis (112), the at least one flat blade (129) being provided with a slot (133) adapted to cooperate transversely with a pin (136), the pin (136) being arranged on an upper surface of a toothed wheel of the at least one first speed reduction bearing (114, 115, 134, 116) and at a predetermined distance from an axis of rotation of this toothed wheel.
An electric skin cleansing device (10) according to any preceding claim, wherein the movable connecting element (107, 108, 109, 120) comprises a fixed sleeve (107), a sliding sleeve (108) and a fastening element (120), the fixed sleeve (107) being integral with the central axis (112) and the sliding sleeve (108) being integral with the fastening element (120), the transformation of the first rotational movement of the shaft (119) into the combination of the second rotational movement of the movable connecting element (107, 108, 109, 120) and the linear movement of the movable connecting element (107, 108, 109, 120) generating a continuous horizontal rotary movement and an alternating vertical movement of the sliding sleeve (108) and the fastening element (120) along the central axis. (112) relative to the fixed sleeve (107).
An electric skin cleansing device (10) according to any preceding claim, wherein the length, width and height of the device are each between 50 and 70 millimetres. A device according to any preceding claim, wherein the upper housing (1000) and the lower housing (2000) are formed as a single piece, and each have dimensions of between 30 and 160 millimetres. An electric skin cleansing device (10) according to any preceding claim, wherein the upper housing (1000) and/or the lower housing (2000) comprises a processor (500), also called a motherboard (500), configured to control the operation of the motor (200) and providing means for controlling the device (10) and the system (1) when a brush head (3000; 3010) is attached to the device (10). An electric skin cleansing device (10) according to any preceding claim, wherein the upper housing (1000) comprises a ring cover (102) attachable to the transmission housing (1000) to close the latter, the ring cover (102) being adapted to cooperate with a brush head (3000; 3010) engaged on the attachment element (120).
An electric skin cleansing device (10) according to any preceding claim, wherein the motor (200) is powered by a battery located in the support housing (2000) and/or by an external power supply with a voltage of between 2 and 20 volts.
Brush head (3000; 3010) adapted to cooperate by assembly with the electric skin cleaning device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, the brush head comprising a first surface (3100; 3110) provided with a first surface density of bristles and at least one second surface (3200a, 3200b; 3210, 3310, 3410) distinct from the first surface, a second surface density of bristles different from the first surface density providing the second surface. Brush head (3000; 3010) according to claim 11, wherein the bristles of the first surface and/or of the at least one second surface are made of silicone and an ionic powder selected from an ionic silver powder, an ionic zinc powder, an ionic copper powder, an ionic titanium powder and/or an ionic zirconium powder.
An electric skin cleansing system (1) comprising the brush head (3000; 3010) according to any one of claims 11 to 12, the electric skin cleansing system (1) further comprising the electric skin cleansing device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, the brush head (3000; 3010) being assembled with the electric skin cleansing device (10) by means of the attachment element (120).
A method of implementing the electrical skin cleaning system (1) according to claim 13, the method comprising the following steps:
S0) activating the system (1) by a continuous press of a power button of the electric cleaning device (10), the continuous press of the power button automatically triggering a step S1) comprising a first preconfigured movement of the motor (200), the first preconfigured movement rotating the brush head (3000; 3010) for a first predetermined duration “T1”, and
S4) automatic deactivation of the motor (200) at the end of the first predetermined duration.
A method of implementing the electrical skin cleansing system (1) according to claim 14, further comprising the following steps:
S3) applying the brush head (3000; 3010) of the system (1) to a portion of the skin or face of a user of the electric skin cleansing system (1) before the end of the first predetermined duration,
S5) pausing the system (1) by a single click of the power button restarting the system (1) by a single click of the power button, and/or
S6) deactivation of the motor (200) by another continuous press, during the first or during the second predetermined duration, of the ignition button, the deactivation of the motor (200) ending all rotation of the brush head (3000; 3010).