JP7475544B2 - A portable hair styling device with light-emitting diodes embedded in hair and teeth - Google Patents

Description

Cross-reference to related applications

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Patent Application No. 17/035,026, filed September 28, 2020, and French Patent Application No. 2011808, filed November 18, 2020, the contents of which are incorporated by reference in their entireties.

In one embodiment, the brush or comb hair and scalp treatment device has controllable LEDs that emit light in the visible color spectrum, UV or IR, or both UV and IR LEDs embedded in the tips of the bristles or bristles to provide targeted treatment or informational or entertaining visual displays.

In one embodiment, the device can be used for a variety of hair and scalp treatment applications, curing and treating a variety of hair and scalp formulas and serums by illuminating LEDs of different wavelengths.

In one embodiment, the scalp and hair treatment device enhances the effectiveness of such treatment by placing the active light ingredient in the area(s) of the device that contacts or is closest to the targeted area of skin, scalp, or hair root.

In one embodiment, the ability to generate different colors from emitters arranged in rows and columns at the tip is used to display detailed device information such as charge status, operating mode, cartridge fill level, or fun visuals by creating RGB pixel-like displays.

In one embodiment, conductive traces are routed through the hollow bristles. Alternatively, the bristles are constructed of conductive spring coils. These conductive paths lead to visible color spectrum LEDs and UV and IR LEDs (light emitting diodes) housed in the tips. These components are potted and sealed with a clear cap. The LEDs are controlled by signals along the conductive paths. These signals are driven by control circuitry built into the device body.

In one embodiment, the device folds on itself. When the device is in the folded configuration, the LEDs are positioned behind the diffuser, and the visual gap between the LEDs and the tip is filled by the diffuser material, making the visual created by the LEDs more perceptible.

In one embodiment, the brush or comb hair and scalp treatment device has a controllable electromagnetic energy emitter configured to emit light in the visible color spectrum, or UV or IR, or both UV and IR LEDs. Non-limiting examples of electromagnetic energy emitters include arc flash lamps, continuous wave light bulbs, incandescent emitters, laser diodes, light emitting diodes (e.g., high efficiency UV light emitting diodes, microcavity light emitting diodes, organic light emitting diodes, polymer light emitting diodes, polymer phosphorescent light emitting diodes, etc.), light energy emitters, quantum dots, etc.

This Summary is provided to introduce in a simplified form some of the concepts 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.

The foregoing aspects and many of the attendant advantages of this invention will become better understood by reference to the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a hair and scalp treatment device. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of the front of the hair and scalp treatment device of FIG. 1 in an open (deployed) configuration. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of the front of the hair and scalp treatment device of FIG. 1 in a closed (folded) configuration. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of a tip utilizing a semi-cylinder configuration in brush and comb embodiments. FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of a tip utilizing a complete cylinder within a cylinder structure in a brush and comb embodiment. FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of a tip with LEDs in a semi-cylindrical configuration for a brush and comb embodiment. FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of a tip with a full cylindrical LED within the cylindrical structure in a brush and comb embodiment. FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram illustrating components of one embodiment of a hair and scalp treatment device. FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing that the ends of the individual tips are controlled to dispense the formulation in circular and linear patterns. FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an individual tip having at least one LED that emits light in the visible color spectrum and at least one UV or IR LED. FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram showing the end of an individual tip with individually controlled illumination of LEDs that emit light in the visible color spectrum. FIG. 12 is an embodiment of a tip configured as a spring-like coil with conductive wiring.

Individuals are washing their hair less and less frequently with traditional wet, water-based shampoos. There are many possible reasons for this reduction in shampooing, including preventing hair loss and damage, and saving time and energy. Dry shampooing is on the rise. People are extending the time between salon visits to save money, leading to increased interest in tinted dry shampoos for root touch-ups. Dry shampoos come primarily in spray bottles. However, spray bottles raise concerns about inhaling the product or unintentionally spraying it into the face, especially the eyes. Spray bottles are imprecise in both spray direction and spray volume. Additionally, spray bottles are not appropriate when traveling or using public restrooms. Dry shampoos do not cleanse the scalp and may actually damage it. Still, the school of thought is that caring for the scalp leads to healthy hair. In the "dry" method of cleaning the scalp, oils are spread on the hair by brushing or grooming. Scalp treatments and formulas that are applied directly to the scalp are applied with a pipette, foam, or powder, which requires the hair to be parted by hand. Powders and foams get on the hands. Dripping excess product onto the scalp can run off and lead to greasy hair. This has led to an increased demand for reusable, closed-loop product designs.

A brush or comb hair and scalp treatment device is disclosed that includes a controllable electromagnetic energy emitter configured to emit light in the visible color spectrum, or UV (ultraviolet) or IR (infrared), or both UV and IR LEDs. Non-limiting examples of electromagnetic energy emitters include arc flash lamps, continuous wave light bulbs, incandescent emitters, laser diodes, light emitting diodes (e.g., high efficiency UV light emitting diodes, microcavity light emitting diodes, organic light emitting diodes, polymer light emitting diodes, polymer phosphorescent light emitting diodes, etc.), light energy emitters, quantum dots, etc.

As shown in Figures 1-3, the hair and treatment device 100 includes controllable LEDs embedded in the brush tips 602, 702, 1100, 1200 to display desired treatments and informational or entertaining visuals. Although the figures show a brush embodiment, the tips can be arranged in a comb embodiment, i.e., a single row of tips.

In one embodiment, the device 100 selects to turn on LEDs of different wavelengths for various hair and scalp treatment applications, as well as for curing and treating various hair and scalp formulas or serums. The device 100 can control the rate at which the LEDs are turned on and off, as well as the brightness and intensity of each LED at each wavelength.

In one embodiment, the scalp and hair treatment device 100 can enhance the effectiveness of such treatment by placing an active light component in the area(s) of the device 100 that contacts or is closest to the targeted skin, scalp, or hair root area. In one embodiment, the active light component is located at the end of the tip.

In one embodiment, the scalp and hair treatment device 100 uses LEDs that generate light in the visible color spectrum to generate different colors at the tips. The LED emitters of visible light arranged in rows and columns at the tips are used to display detailed device information such as charge status, operating mode, cartridge level, or fun visuals by generating an RGB pixel-like display. To illustrate aspects of the present disclosure, RGB (red, green, blue) LEDs have been used as representative examples of LEDs that emit in the visible color spectrum, but other LEDs that emit in the visible color spectrum can be used in place of the RGB LEDs.

In one embodiment, conductive traces are routed through the hollow tips of the bristles. Alternatively, the tips are constructed of conductive spring-like coils. These conductive paths lead to visible spectrum LEDs, UV and IR LEDs (light emitting diodes) housed in the tips. The components are potted and sealed with a clear cap. The LEDs are controlled by signals along these conductive paths. These signals are driven by control circuitry housed in the body of the device 100.

In one embodiment, the device 100 folds onto itself. When the device 100 is in the folded configuration, the LEDs are positioned behind the diffuser, and the diffuser material can fill the visual gap between the LEDs and the tip, making the visual created by the LEDs more noticeable.

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

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

The brush head 140 is the portion of the device 100 that holds the tips 602, 702, 1100, or 1200. In one embodiment, the device 100 has the tips 602, 702, 1100, 1200 arranged in a brush configuration, such as concentric circles. In one embodiment, the tips are also configured to allow for controllable dispensing of formulation from selected individual tips and turning off dispensing from other tips. This allows some tips to be "on" while others remain "off" to create different spray patterns from the brush head 140. Similarly, for the visible color spectrum, UV and IR LEDs, some tips may be colored and illuminated while others are not illuminated, as the tip LEDs are individually turned on and off.

In one embodiment, the handle 104 is connected to the barrel 138 via a pivotable connection. In this manner, the barrel 138 can be folded up inside the handle 104 when not in use.

In FIG. 1, the device 100 is shown in an extended position that renders the device 100 operable, with a barrel 138 having a brush head 140 at its end. In FIG. 2, the device 100 is shown from the front to show that the device 100 includes a cavity 142 within the handle 104. In FIG. 3, the device 100 is shown in a folded position with the barrel 138 and brush head 140 retracted into the handle 104 and resting within the cavity 142.

In one embodiment, in the folded position, the tips 602, 702, 1100, 1200 are positioned adjacent to the diffuser material 136. The diffuser material 136 is located at the end of the handle 104, and the diffuser material 136 has an outer surface that is visible to a person from the outside, i.e., by looking down the end of the handle 104. The tips face toward the diffuser material 136. The diffuser material 136 is completely transparent to light, translucent, or has a degree of opacity that is not completely opaque such that some light emitted by the tips is visible from outside the diffuser material 136. In one embodiment, the diffuser material 136 scatters the emitted light to fill gaps between the tips, creating a softer light.

In one embodiment, the device 100 includes a housing that houses a removable cartridge 102 containing a hair or scalp treatment formulation. The device 100 allows the cartridge 102 to be easily replaced to provide different formulations. The cartridge 102 is configured to be a refillable cartridge or a disposable cartridge. In one embodiment, the device 100 can be configured to hold multiple cartridges 102, each of which can be filled with a different formulation for different applications. Alternatively, two or more different formulations can be used, where in some applications both formulations need to be applied to achieve the intended treatment.

In one embodiment, the tip 602, 702, 1100, 1200 is configured to dispense two different formulations. In one embodiment, the tip 602, 702, 1100, 1200 has a hollow chamber that extends the entire length of the tip. The tip 602, 702, 1100, 1200 has a length of at least one diameter. However, the tip 602, 702, 1100, 1200 can be configured to have a length of several diameters, so that the width to length ratio varies from 1:1 to 1:20 or more. The tip 602, 702, 1100, 1200 can be flexible or inflexible. The tip 602, 702, 1100, 1200 can also be flexibly connected to the brush head 140. Separate chambers within the tip allow one or more formulations to be delivered through each chamber without mixing. The formulations can be separated within each chamber until the formulation exits the chamber. Delivery of the formulation can be accomplished by constructing chambers with openings along their length, only at their ends, or both along their length and at their ends. Additionally, each chamber within a tip can have a valve or other means to control delivery only from one or both chambers. By controlling delivery of the formulation only from a particular tip of the brush head 140, multiple delivery patterns can be created, e.g., cone spray, fan spray, etc.

In the embodiments, the chambers are depicted as half and full cylinders, but the chambers can have any cross-sectional shape. Additionally, in the embodiments, the tips 602, 702, 1100, 1200 and the first and second hollow chambers forming them are electrically conductive so as to provide a microcurrent or be configured as positive and negative terminals for supplying to the scalp and hair. Additionally, the conductive tips 602, 702, 1100, 1200 have other applications where the first and second hollow chambers are connected to positive and negative terminals of a power source, or where the first and second hollow chambers are connected to positive and negative sensing terminals.

In one embodiment, the tips 602, 702, 1100, 1200 do not need to be conductive, but the multi-cylinder structure is still useful when the application involves mixing a formulation or dispensing a formulation and applying a vacuum to a small, controlled target area on the scalp.

As shown in FIG. 4, in one embodiment, the tip 602 is configured such that a first hollow semi-cylinder 604 joins a second hollow semi-cylinder 606 along its length. The first semi-cylinder 604 and the second semi-cylinder 606 can be made of an electrically conductive material. In one embodiment, the first semi-cylinder 604 and the second semi-cylinder 606 are separated by an electrical insulator 608. Here, the overall shape of the tip 602 is "cylindrical," but in accordance with the present disclosure, the tip 602 can have any cross-sectional shape, including oval, rectangular, square, or any other polygonal shape.

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

In one embodiment, the hollow chambers of the first hollow half-cylinder 604 and the second hollow half-cylinder 606 can be made from or embedded with a shape memory or piezoelectric material that can be actuated by an electric current to control the direction of movement of the tip 602. In one embodiment, the chambers of the dual chamber structure can be made from or embedded with shape memory or piezoelectric materials that actuate in opposite directions, allowing positive and/or negative actuation about a central position depending on which chamber is actuated. These materials exist, for example, as polymers, ceramics, and alloys. In one embodiment, the shape memory and piezoelectric materials can be created as coils and do not necessarily have to be hollow chambers. The coils are effective to actuate the tip 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 positive and negative terminals connected to the shape memory or piezoelectric materials.

FIG. 4 further illustrates that the tip 602 can have openings 904 on the periphery. The hollow half cylinder 604 has a first opening 904 along its exterior length, and the hollow half cylinder 606 has a second opening 906 along its exterior length. In one embodiment, the openings 904, 906 can be created by laser cutting holes (perforations) along the length of the tip 602.

In one embodiment, tip 602 can omit the openings along the length of the tip, and only the end of tip 602 is provided with openings so that tip 602 can be used to treat the scalp. In this manner, two different formulations can be delivered from tip 602 via half cylinder 604 and half cylinder 606.

In one embodiment, the end of the tip 602 comprises a perforated flat or domed disk with a small opening 610 in the first half cylinder 604 and an opening 612 in the second half cylinder 606. In one embodiment, instead of a disk, the half cylinders 604, 606 can be completely open at the ends. Either configuration allows for the formulation to be dispensed from the end of the tip 602, along the length, or along both the length and end of the tip 602.

As shown in FIG. 5, in one embodiment, the tip 702 is constructed by inserting a first hollow small diameter cylinder 704 into a second hollow large diameter cylinder 706. In one embodiment, the first cylinder 704 is coaxial with the second cylinder 706. Note that the first cylinder 704 may also be referred to as the inner cylinder and the second cylinder 706 as the outer cylinder. Here, the tip 702 is in the shape of a "cylinder," but according to the present disclosure, the tip 702 may have any cross-sectional shape, including an oval, a rectangle, a square, or any other polygon.

In one embodiment, the first cylinder 704 and the second cylinder 706 are made of a conductive material, such as a metal. In one embodiment, the exterior of the first cylinder 704 can be coated with an insulator. The insulator is optional if the first cylinder 704 and the second cylinder 706 cannot be electrically insulated from each other. In one embodiment, one of the first cylinder 704 or the second cylinder 706 is a positive conductor terminal and the other is a negative conductor terminal.

In one embodiment, the hollow chambers of the first cylinder 704 and the second cylinder 706 can be made from or embedded with shape memory or piezoelectric materials that can be actuated by an electric current to control the direction of movement of the tip 702. In one embodiment, the chambers of the dual chamber structure can be made from or embedded with shape memory or piezoelectric materials that actuate in opposite directions, allowing positive and/or negative actuation about a central position depending on which chamber is actuated. These materials exist as polymers, ceramics, and alloys, for example. In one embodiment, the shape memory and piezoelectric materials can be made as coils and do not necessarily have to be hollow chambers.
The coil is effective to actuate the tip vertically along the Z-axis (i.e., along the axial direction of the coil). Electrical actuation of the shape memory and piezoelectric materials is accomplished via an AC or DC power source having positive and negative terminals connected to the shape memory or piezoelectric material.

In FIG. 5, the inner barrel 704 has a first opening 1004 that appears on the outside of the outer barrel 706. However, the opening 1004 can pass through the outer barrel 706 and be connected, for example, by a tube leading to the inner barrel 704, so that the opening is closed to the outer barrel 706. The outer barrel 706 has a second opening 1006 along the length of the sheath, which opening 1006 is in communication only with the interior of the outer barrel 706. In an embodiment, the inner barrel 704 and the outer barrel 706 are not coaxial with each other, but the inner barrel 704 may be positioned against the inner wall of the outer barrel 706, so that the opening from the inner barrel 704 only needs to traverse the wall of the outer barrel 706, avoiding the need to connect the opening through a tube. For electrical insulation, it may be necessary to interpose an insulator between the inner barrel 704 and the outer barrel 706. In either configuration, two different formulations can be delivered from the tip 702 through the inner barrel 704 and the outer barrel 706. In one embodiment, the openings 1004, 1006 can be created by laser cutting holes (perforations) along the length of the tip 702.

In one embodiment, the end of the tip 702 comprises a perforated plate or dome-shaped disk with a small opening 710 in the first inner barrel 704 and an opening 708 in the second outer barrel 706. In an embodiment, instead of a disk, the inner barrel 704 and the outer barrel 706 can be completely open at the ends. Either configuration allows the formulation to be expelled from the end of the tip 702, or along the length of the tip 702, or both.

In one embodiment, when the tip 602, 702 is made from a conductive material, one of the barrels 604 or 606, 704 or 706 of the tip 602, 702, respectively, acts as a positive terminal for conducting an electric charge and the other acts as a negative terminal. This allows power to be provided to devices such as LEDs and sensors.

6 shows a tip 1100 similar in structure to tip 602, made from a conductive first hollow half-cylinder 1104 that is placed alongside but electrically insulated from a conductive second hollow half-cylinder 1106. Here, the first half-cylinder 1104 is designated as the positive or negative terminal, and the second half-cylinder 1106 is the terminal of the opposite polarity to the first half-cylinder 1104. An electrically insulating material or coating can be added between the first hollow half-cylinder 1104 and the second hollow half-cylinder 1106 for electrical insulation. A power source is connected to the first half-cylinder 1104 and the second half-cylinder 1106. In one embodiment, this allows for one or more light-emitting diodes 1102 to be placed at the end of the tip or at other locations, powered by the two half-cylinders that act as terminals by contacting the positive and negative terminals.

7 shows a tip 1200 similar in structure to tip 702, made from a conductive first hollow inner cylinder 1204 placed inside or coaxially with a conductive second hollow outer cylinder 1206. Here, the first inner cylinder 1204 is the positive or negative terminal, and the second outer cylinder 1106 is the terminal of the opposite polarity to the first inner cylinder 1204. An electrically insulating material or coating can be added between the first inner cylinder 1204 and the second outer cylinder 1106 to provide electrical insulation. A power source is connected to the first inner cylinder 1204 and the second outer cylinder 1106. In one embodiment, this allows one or more light emitting diodes 1202 to be placed at the end of the tip or at other locations, powered by two half cylinders that act as terminals by contacting the positive and negative terminals.

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

In one embodiment, when the LEDs 1102, 1202 are positioned at the end of the tip, the LEDs can deliver more energy to the scalp compared to when they are positioned at the base of the tip or when the LED light is delivered via a long fiber optic path.

In one embodiment, the LEDs 1102, 1202 can be used to indicate processing, formulation curing, or device status (i.e., operating mode or charging status).

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

In one embodiment, LEDs 1102, 1202 include one or more III-V (GaAs) based LEDs capable of emitting electromagnetic radiation in a wavelength range spanning from green visible to near infrared. In one embodiment, LEDs 1102, 1202 include one or more III-nitride blue LED solid-state emitters capable of emitting electromagnetic radiation in a wavelength range spanning from ultraviolet to blue visible.

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

10 illustrates one embodiment of an arrangement of LEDs 200 for use with the tips 602, 702. When the tips 602, 702 are fitted with LEDs as illustrated in FIG. 10, the tips 602, 702 can omit the discharge opening at the end. In one embodiment, the tips 602, 702 include at least one visible color spectrum LED, such as an RGB (red-green-blue) LED 202, and/or at least one UV or IR LED 204, or both UV and IR. Although RGB LEDs are used as representative examples to illustrate aspects of the present disclosure, other LEDs that emit light in the visible color spectrum can be used in place of the RGB (red-green-blue) LED 202. The visible color spectrum of the electromagnetic radiation spectrum is generally considered to be from about 380 nm (violet) to about 740 nm (red).

In one embodiment, the RGB LEDs produce three nominal wavelengths that are selected to maximize the range of colors perceived by varying their intensities. The RGB LED 202 can include three LEDs in one package, one for each color: red, green, and blue. In one embodiment, the red light has a wavelength of about 620-750 nm, the green light has a wavelength of about 495-570 nm, and the blue light has a wavelength of about 450-495 nm. In one embodiment, the RGB LED 202 includes a common cathode and wiring for three anodes, one for each of the red, green, and blue LEDs. In one embodiment, the RGB LED 202 includes a common anode and wiring for the three cathodes. FIG. 12 is an illustration of one embodiment of a tip 1300 having an LED structure 200 at the tip. The tip 1300 can be used in place of the tip 602, 702 structures. In one embodiment, the tip 1300 is configured as a spring-like coil having multiple (four) conductive traces 1302, 1304, 1306, 1308, for example, to control the RGB LEDs 202. In one embodiment, the voltage to each of the red, green, and blue LEDs is independently modulated to turn on one or more of the RGB LEDs 202 to vary their intensity. The red, green, and blue LEDs are used to generate any color that is a combination of two or more colors.

In one embodiment, the RGB and UV or IR LEDs 202, 204 are potted and sealed with a light-transmissive cap 208, such as epoxy. The LEDs 202, 204 are controlled via signals along conductive wiring paths 206, 210, such as the cylinder itself or dedicated wiring, in terms of the RGB LEDs requiring separate signals for each of the red, green and blue LEDs. The signals powering the LEDs 202, 204 are driven by light control circuitry housed in the device body.

In Figure 8, the device 100 is shown diagrammatically to illustrate the main systems.

In one embodiment, the device 100 includes a power supply 128. The device 100 is powered by alternating current (AC) or direct current (DC). In one embodiment, the device 100 is powered by typical household AC, which relies on a power cord (not shown) to power the device 100. In one embodiment, the device 100 is powered through DC, such as a rechargeable battery that can be charged by plugging into a household AC outlet. A DC-powered device 100 allows the device 100 to be used without having to stand or stand in close proximity to an outlet. The power supply 128 is configured to provide power to any of the systems that require power, such as the controller 148, the dispenser 112, the light module 152, the vacuum motor 114, the camera 160, the LEDs 1102, 1202, and the tips 602, 702, 1100, 1200.

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. The cartridge 102 is removable from the device 100 for refilling or for disposal and replacement with a new full cartridge. Once emptied, the cartridge 102 can be replaced with a new cartridge filled with the same or a different formulation, or the cartridge 102 can be refilled with the same or a different formulation. As shown in FIG. 1, the cartridge 102 is inserted from the back of the device 100. The cartridge 102 is connected to deliver the scalp or hair formulation to the dispenser 112. In one embodiment, the device 100 can hold multiple cartridges, each filled with a different formulation, to effect different treatments and to dispense different areas of the scalp or hair.

In one embodiment, the cartridge 102 has a product identification tag capable of carrying instructions for operation of the device 100 based on the particular formulation contained in the cartridge 102. The device 100 may have a product identification tag reader capable of reading the product identification tag and processing the encoded signal into instructions for operation and control of the device based on the particular formulation. The product identification tag may include, for example, a bar code, a two-dimensional bar code, an RFID, etc. The product identification tag is encoded with a machine-readable signal that conveys the device settings for the particular formulation. Different formulations may have different device settings. For example, the product identification tag may include a dispensing setting from liquid to fine, medium, or coarse droplets. The product identification tag may also include dispensing pattern formation such as flat fan and cone, wide and narrow, solid and hollow, stream and mist, etc. The product identification tag may also include instructions for operating the LEDs 202, 204, 1102, 1202. Different formulations may also be used to treat different areas of the scalp and hair. Different formulations may also be used to provide different treatments to the scalp and hair.

The dispenser 112 can dispense one or more formulations through the tips 602, 702, 1100, 1200 as a fine mist or liquid, or anything in between. In one embodiment, the dispenser 112 includes a compressor, pump, or ultrasonic generator to generate a mist from the formulation. In the case of a pump or compressor dispenser 112, such a dispenser 112 causes air or formulation to flow at high velocity, thereby propelling the formulation through fine openings. In the case of a pump or compressor dispenser 112, a single dispenser 112 can be disposed in the device 100. The outlet of the compressor or pump dispenser 112 is then directed through a system of conduits to each of the individual tips.

In an embodiment, the dispenser 112 is an ultrasonic nebulizer that generates a mist or vapor to expel the formulation through an individual tip. This has the advantage of gently dispersing the formulation to reduce waste and improve control of coverage. In one embodiment, the nebulizer uses an ultrasonic generator in contact with the formulation where the ultrasonic frequency is sufficient to generate a mist. Ultrasonic nebulizers also include mesh nebulizers that have a vibrating mesh that just touches the surface of the formulation to generate the mist. Either type of ultrasonic nebulizer can use a piezoelectric element.

In one embodiment, the ultrasonic generator and the vibrating mesh nebulizer can both use piezoelectric materials to generate ultrasonic frequency vibrations. In one embodiment, the same piezoelectric material used in the nebulizer may also be used to drive the haptic system. The haptic system may include a massage therapy system, but may also include any system that provides a sensory experience, such as heating and associated ultrasound therapy. The nebulizer may rely on the generation of frequencies above 1 MHz. Nebulizers capable of generating frequencies of 1 MHz or higher may also be used to drive the haptic system to generate heat that can be used to treat the skin and scalp, either alone or in conjunction with the ejection of a formulation. Some nebulizers may also rely on the generation of ultrasonic frequencies below 1 MHz. In one embodiment, the nebulizer may be used to drive the haptic system to generate frequencies in a range designed to deliver therapeutic compounds to the skin and scalp in conjunction with the ejection of a formulation. Thus, there is an advantage when the same piezoelectric material used in the nebulizer system is used in the haptic system.

In one embodiment, each tip may include a valve at the inlet of one or both chambers. The valve has an actuator that opens and closes the valve. Each valve at each tip may be actuated to open and close independently of other valves at other tips. By opening and closing the valves at individual tips, the formulation may be controlled to flow only from a selected tip in a controlled pattern, such as a cone, flat fan, stream, multiple streams, pulses, etc. Additionally, by providing valves that control the discharge from both chambers at the tip, the formulation may be controlled to flow from one or both chambers.

9 is a schematic diagram showing the ends of tips 602, 702, 1100, 1200. "End" can be used to designate an orthogonal direction with respect to the length of the tip, and can also mean adjacent to an orthogonal direction, such as along a length next to an orthogonal direction. In one embodiment, the tips are arranged in a circular pattern with small circle 908, medium circle 910, and large circle 912 of increasing diameter. In one embodiment, only the valves of the tips connected by one of the circles 908, 910, or 912 can be opened, leading to the ejection of formulation in the small cone 908, medium cone 910, and large cone 912 to cover small, medium, and large areas of the scalp or hair. The controller is instructed to open the tips that are within the pattern and close the tips that are not within the pattern to eject the formulation according to the pattern. The actuation of the valves of the individual tips is not limited to only circular patterns. In one embodiment, the valves of the tips can be actuated in a linear pattern. Lines 914 connect only the tips that are open to eject the formulation in a fan pattern, while the remaining tips that are not in a linear pattern remain closed. Any combination of individual tips can be selected to eject the formulation only from certain tips and not from others to achieve a distinct pattern.

In one embodiment, the dispenser 112 is operated by depressing the switch 106. In one embodiment, the switch 106 is a momentary switch whose default position is the off position. The momentary switch needs to be actuated only once to dispense a measured amount of formulation, regardless of the length of actuation. Holding the momentary switch 106 down longer will not dispense more formulation beyond the pre-measured 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.

In one embodiment, the valves of the tips 602, 702, 1100, 1200 are activated only when the individual tip selected for dispensing is in contact with the skin. In one embodiment, the tips 602, 702, 1100, 1200 are made from a conductive material, allowing the tips to function as contact sensors. In one embodiment, one of the barrels of each of the tips 602, 702, 1100, 1200 can function as a positive terminal and a second barrel of the same or different tip can function as a negative terminal. In one embodiment, impedance can be measured between any positive terminal of the tip and any negative terminal of the tip to determine if one or more individual tips are in contact with the scalp (skin). In one embodiment, impedance can be measured between any positive terminal and the scalp (via a conductive return path to the handle)/ Determining impedance and contact is useful when a formulation requires scalp contact, for example in a formulation treatment and vacuum system where the scalp is being treated and there is a risk of hair being sucked away by the vacuum if the device is not operated directly on the scalp.

In one embodiment, impedance measurements can also be used to calculate scalp moisture levels at specific points or over a more general area. In one embodiment, impedance can be measured from different extremities to determine scalp moisture levels over a wider area.

In one embodiment, the contact sensor 162 can be located at the tip end. In one embodiment, the contact sensor 162 includes an open or short detector or a dielectric sensor. An open detector can refer to an open circuit detector for detecting an open continuity in electrical transmission. A short detector can refer to detecting low electrical resistance. A dielectric sensor is also referred to as a capacitance detector that can detect changes in dielectric constant. In one embodiment, the contact sensor 162 can be a sensor that detects touch or non-touch of the individual tips. In one embodiment, the contact sensor 162 can indicate an amount of touch. One example of a contact sensor that can detect an amount of touch is a piezoelectric sensor.

In one embodiment, the device 100 includes a light module 152. The light module 152 has circuitry configured to control the LEDs 202, 204, 1102, 1202 of the tip. In one embodiment, the light module 152 has circuitry configured to control which LEDs are turned on/off, the rate at which they are turned on/off, and the brightness and/or intensity at each wavelength of each LED. The circuitry of the light module 152 can be included within the controller 148 or separate from the controller 148. With particular reference to the RGB LEDs 202, the light module 152 has circuitry configured to control the on and off and varying intensity of the red, green and blue light emitted from each of the RGB LEDs 202. By varying the illumination and intensity of the individual red, green and blue LEDs of the RGB LEDs 202, many different colors can be produced individually from the tips, with some tips illuminating to produce a particular color and other tips illuminating differently.

FIG. 11 shows the ends of tips 602, 702, each of which is fitted with an RGB LED 202 at the end. "End" can be used to designate an orthogonal direction with respect to the length of the tip, and can also mean adjacent to an orthogonal direction, such as along a length adjacent to an orthogonal direction. In this illustrated example, light module 152 illuminates the red LEDs in the outer circle of the tip, the red and green LEDs in the middle circle of the tip which combine to give a yellow color, and the green LEDs in the inner circle of the tip. In an embodiment, the RGB LEDs 202 on the tip can be controlled to any color of red, green, blue, or any two or more of the colors of red, green, blue combined to give a particular color. By lighting the red, green, and blue LEDs individually and varying their intensities, many shades of color can be achieved at each tip. Each tip can be illuminated to give the same color, or different tips can be illuminated to give different colors. Additionally, the light on each tip can be controlled individually, allowing certain tips to be lit to spell out or announce alphanumeric characters such as numbers and letters. Also, tips equipped with RGB LEDs can be individually lit to represent different modes. Through the use of different colors or lighting of certain tips, the RGB LEDs 202 can be used to display detailed device information such as charging status, operating mode, cartridge level, or a pleasing visual by creating an RGB pixel-like display. In one embodiment, the RGB LEDs 202 operate to provide a status or visual indication when the device 100 is in the closed position (see FIG. 3). In the closed position, the light emitted by the RGB LEDs can be seen through the diffuser material 136, which can scatter the light and fill the gaps between the tips, providing a pleasing visual effect as well as providing useful device status information.

In one embodiment, the device 100 includes a vacuum system having a vacuum generating motor 114 and a collector 116. In one embodiment, the motor 114 can be a variable speed motor. The vacuum motor 114 is connected to a rotating vane that causes the air flow to enter through one of the barrels of the tip 602, 702, 1100, 1200. The vacuum motor 114 directs the air flow to enter through an opening in the tip. The air flow can carry the used formulation along with any debris and oils that have been washed from the hair by the formulation, which are then captured by the collector 116, and the air is exhausted out of the device 100. In one embodiment, the collector 116 includes an annular vent located on the back of the device 100. The vent allows the air flow to exit the device 100 while the used and debris are captured in the collector 116.

In one embodiment, the vacuum motor 114 is operated by a multi-position, multi-function, selector switch 110. The selector switch 110 may be, for example, a slide or dial switch with two or more positions, or a push button switch with two or more positions. In one embodiment, the vacuum selector switch 110 includes an off setting and two or more vacuum speed settings, such as high and low. In one embodiment, the vacuum switch 110 is located on the underside of the lower part of the handle 104, for example, for thumb operation. The vacuum switch 110 may be isolated for uninterrupted vacuum. The selector switch 110 remains in a selected position until moved to another position. In one embodiment, a momentary switch may replace the selector switch, where the default position of the momentary switch is the off position, and the momentary switch must be depressed to activate the vacuum motor. In one embodiment, the device 100 includes both a vacuum selector switch and a momentary switch, where the momentary switch, when depressed, is used to operate the vacuum motor at the speed setting of the selector switch.

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 the circuitry may be on a single chip. The controller 148 may include at least a microprocessor core and memory. The hardware may be designed for use in small, hand-operated devices. The microprocessor may be implemented as multiple processors operating cooperatively in parallel and serial to execute instructions according to preprogrammed logic.

Instructions for controlling the dispenser 112, the vacuum generating motor 114, and the light module 152 can be stored in a controller memory. Memory is any type of computer-readable medium or computer storage device that can be accessed and used by one or more microprocessors to execute instructions. The instructions are stored in a high-speed memory such as an EEPROM, flash memory, RAM, or other programmable non-volatile memory.

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

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

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

In one embodiment, the controller 148 has circuitry that determines the impedance between the terminals of 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 of the tips in contact and close the valves of the tips not in contact, and give permission to the dispenser to proceed with dispensing the formulation through the tips in contact with the skin.

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

In one embodiment, the controller 148 uses impedance to determine whether the tips are in contact with the scalp. In one embodiment, the controller 148 can turn off the vacuum generating motor 114 or not allow the vacuum generating motor 114 to turn on when it is determined that one or more tips are not in contact with the scalp.

In one embodiment, the controller 148 can use impedance measurements to determine moisture in one or more regions on the scalp.

In one embodiment, the controller 148 receives a signal from the contact sensor 162 to determine whether the tip is in contact with the skin.

In one embodiment, the controller 148 has circuitry that controls the opening of only the tip valves that will produce the selected spray pattern.

In one embodiment, the controller 148 has circuitry for controlling the amount of formulation dispensed by the dispenser.

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

In one embodiment, the controller 148 has circuitry that illuminates the LEDs 1102, 1202 based on predetermined instructions. For example, some prescriptions may require that light of a particular wavelength be applied. The controller 148 is used to turn the LEDs 1102, 1202 on and off to provide a phototherapy treatment. The controller 148 has instructions regarding the wavelengths to use and the power to apply for the phototherapy treatment, and provides power to the LEDs of the appropriate wavelength.

In one embodiment, the controller 148 has circuitry for controlling the amount of formulation 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 particular amount of formulation. In one embodiment, the dispenser 112 uses a positive displacement pump, and thus an encoder can measure the volume displaced for each revolution of the pump. When the revolutions of the pump equal the volume of formulation to be dispensed, the controller 148 can turn the pump off.

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

In one embodiment, the controller 148 has circuitry configured to turn on and off LEDs of specific wavelengths to administer a therapeutic light prescription or to be used to cure a formulation.

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

In one embodiment, the controller 148 has circuitry configured to control the dispensing of a metered amount of formulation through a selected individual tip only when the controller detects that the tip is in contact with the scalp/skin.

The use of the device 100 is intuitive, and the overall shape of the device 100 is familiar to users from other hair appliances, such as hair dryers, leading to simple intuitive use of the device 100. The device 100 can improve upon current uses of aerosol dry shampoo. The device 100 contrasts with aerosol spray cans, which spray more than necessary and create a large cloud that adequately covers areas well beyond the user's head. Additionally, the device 100 has a tip that allows for added functionality.

Although illustrative embodiments have been shown and described, it will be understood that various changes can be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims (15)

A hair and scalp treatment device comprising:
a dispenser connected to a cartridge containing the formulation;
a plurality of tips on the device;
a controller configured to individually turn on or off LEDs from the plurality of tips;
Equipped with
the tip has at least one opening for expelling the formulation and at least one LED that produces light in the visible color spectrum;
the at least one LED is disposed at an end of the tip;
Hair and scalp treatment devices. the at least one LED is an RGB LED;
The hair and scalp treatment device of claim 1 . the tip has a UV, an IR LED, or both a UV and an IR LED at an end of the tip;
The hair and scalp treatment device according to claim 1 or 2. the at least one LED is sealed within a light-transmitting cap;
The hair and scalp treatment device according to any one of claims 1 to 3. a handle and a section having a brush head including the plurality of tips;
The end of the handle has a diffuser material visible on the outside of the handle.
The hair and scalp treatment device according to any one of claims 1 to 4. a section having a handle and a brush head including the plurality of tips;
The section having the brush head pivots on the handle.
The hair and scalp treatment device according to any one of claims 1 to 5. The section having the brush head pivots to retract into the handle.
The hair and scalp treatment device according to claim 6. When the handle is pivoted to a closed position, the LED is positioned adjacent to a diffuser material.
The hair and scalp treatment device according to claim 6. The diffuser material scatters the light generated by the LED.
The hair and scalp treatment device of claim 8. The LED indicates the device status by color.
The hair and scalp treatment device according to any one of claims 1 to 9. The controller controls the color of the tip by illuminating LEDs of different wavelengths.
The hair and scalp treatment device according to any one of claims 1 to 10. applying the formulation from the device to the hair or scalp;
directing light generated from the end of a brush or comb tip attached to the device;
Including,
The end comprises at least one LED generating light in the visible color spectrum, or a UV or IR LED;
A method of cleaning the hair and scalp using the device. The device includes a controller that individually turns on and off the LEDs to generate light from the tip in a visible color spectrum.
The method of claim 12. and expelling the formulation from the selected tip to generate a spray pattern.
The method according to claim 12 or claim 13. Further comprising the step of detecting contact with the scalp prior to applying the formulation.
The method according to any one of claims 12 to 14.