METHOD FOR APPLYING A COSMETIC SUBSTANCE TO A PERSON'S SKIN

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a non-therapeutic method for applying a cosmetic substance to the skin of a person according to claim 1 and a device for applying a cosmetic substance to the skin of a person according to claim 18.

[0002] Cosmetic substances, such as skincare products, lotions, sunscreens, self-tanners, and the like, are usually applied to a person's skin by hand. This method is time-consuming, especially when treating larger areas of skin, and a significant amount of the product is lost in the hands. To minimize contact with the cosmetic substance by the person applying it and to achieve better distribution, pump sprays or pressurized aerosol containers are available. These contain the cosmetic substance and atomize and spray it using a propellant. However, a disadvantage of this method is that a large portion of the substance does not reach the skin but rather the surrounding area, which is undesirable.

[0003] Furthermore, spray devices that employ electrostatic atomization have been designed for more targeted application of cosmetic substances to a person's skin. In this process, the particles or droplets of the substance to be sprayed are electrically charged by means of a high-voltage electrode and directed towards the skin of the person being treated due to electric field forces, with the skin being grounded relative to the spray device.

[0004] For the purposes of the present invention, electrostatic atomization encompasses all atomization or nebulization processes that atomize or nebulize substances by means of high-voltage effects. In particular, electrohydrodynamic and electrokinetic effects are also included in this definition of atomization. For the purposes of the invention, electrostatic atomization can also be understood as electrohydrodynamic atomization.

[0005] Such electrostatic spraying devices – as disclosed, for example, in WO 2002 055 211 A1 – have a container for the product to be sprayed, a conveying device which usually has a drive to actuate a piston inside the container or a conveying pump, a nozzle for distributing the product and a high voltage source with an associated high voltage electrode to electrostatically charge the substance or its particles and droplets.

[0006] All the application methods mentioned have the disadvantage that the cosmetic substance is often applied unevenly to the skin. Manual application is difficult to control and dose precisely. Available spray devices dispense the substance with a largely constant amount, which—if the sprayer is moved unevenly or the container is incorrectly positioned relative to a section of skin—also leads to uneven distribution. Consequently, areas of the skin are created where too much, too little, or no substance has been applied. The latter, however, cannot work optimally, especially when precise dosage is crucial.

[0007] When applying cosmetic substances, especially sunscreens, self-tanners, insect repellents, lotions, and the like, people often—consciously or unconsciously—save on the amount of product because it is relatively expensive. With substances that need to be reapplied regularly or to maintain a therapeutic or protective effect, this reapplication is often forgotten. Individual adjustments to the application of cosmetic substances to a person's skin are not possible.

[0008] EP 3 375 323 A1 discloses a device for electrostatically applying a coating to a person's skin, comprising a distance measuring unit for measuring the distance between the skin and the device and a distance decision unit for deciding whether the distance determined by the distance measuring unit is suitable for electrostatic spraying. A distance notification unit informs the user of the decision of the distance decision unit. The device further comprises an angle measuring unit for measuring the angle between the electrostatic spray direction and the skin.

[0009] The object of the invention is to develop a non-therapeutic method and a device for applying a cosmetic substance to a person's skin, which overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art and enables the most even and optimal application of a cosmetic substance for the individual. Furthermore, the method should be able to accommodate individual adjustments and meet personal needs. It should be simple in design and cost-effective to implement.

[0010] The main features of the invention are specified in claims 1 and 18. Embodiments are the subject of claims 2 to 17 and 19.

[0011] As a solution, the invention proposes a non-therapeutic method for applying a cosmetic substance to a person's skin, wherein the method is carried out using a device for electrostatically spraying the cosmetic substance.

[0012] The device has a container for the cosmetic substance, a nozzle assembly for spraying the cosmetic substance, a conveying device for conveying the cosmetic substance from the container to the nozzle assembly, a high-voltage source, a processor for processing measured values, data and / or reference values, a memory for storing the measured values, data and / or reference values, a transmitting and receiving unit for transmitting the measured values, data and / or reference values ​​to an external data processing device and / or for receiving further measured values, data and / or reference values ​​from the external data processing device.

[0013] The procedure consists of the following steps: ▪ The measured values, further measured values, personal data of the person, further external data and / or reference values ​​are recorded and / or determined and transmitted to the processor, ▪ the processor processes the measured values, the further measured values, the personal data, the further external data and / or the reference values ​​to produce at least one result, ▪ from the measured values, the further measured values, the personal data of the person, the further external data and / or the results calculated by the processor, information about a cosmetic substance suitable for the person is generated, ▪ information relating to the cosmetic substance is provided to the person who uses or intends to use the device via the data processing device or via the device itself, ▪ based on the results, the processor varies the amount of cosmetic substance dispensed from the device.

[0014] This device makes it possible to achieve a largely even and optimal application of the cosmetic substance for each individual. All areas of the skin to be treated can be completely coated with a consistently sufficient and even amount of cosmetic substance, allowing it to optimally achieve the desired or intended effect. The procedure is simple and can be implemented cost-effectively using simple means.

[0015] According to the invention, the processor varies the dispensed quantity of the cosmetic substance to be sprayed by controlling the delivery device. This device, for example, can be designed as a delivery pump and operated faster or slower. If the delivery device drives a piston in the container for the cosmetic substance, this piston can be moved faster or slower.

[0016] Additionally or alternatively, the processor can vary the amount of cosmetic substance dispensed by regulating the high-voltage source. This would also allow for adjustments to the droplet size and distribution within the sprayed cosmetic substance.

[0017] A further embodiment of the method according to the invention provides that the processor varies the dispensed quantity of the cosmetic substance to be sprayed by influencing the nozzle arrangement. This can be achieved, for example, by changing the nozzle cross-section, the nozzle arrangement, the nozzle orientation, or the number of nozzles activated.

[0018] Further improvement in the application of the cosmetic substance is achieved by varying the application rate of the cosmetic substance to be sprayed based on the results in real time. Changes in the measured values, other measured values, the individual's personal data, other external data, and / or reference values ​​are immediately taken into account, and the application rate is adjusted accordingly.

[0019] In a preferred embodiment, the device has at least one sensor, the measurements of which are recorded by the at least one sensor during the application of the cosmetic substance to the person's skin. This also allows the amount of cosmetic substance dispensed to be adjusted to the individual circumstances and needs of the person using the device.

[0020] Ideally, at least one sensor should detect the speed, acceleration, deceleration and / or tilt of the device.

[0021] For example, in one embodiment of the invention, the amount of cosmetic substance dispensed is varied depending on the speed of the device, wherein the amount of cosmetic substance dispensed is increased with increasing speed and wherein the amount of cosmetic substance dispensed is decreased with decreasing speed.

[0022] The sprayer's speed is detected by one or more integrated sensors. The measured values ​​are then sent to the processor, which processes them and calculates movement data. Based on this movement data, the optimal spray volume is adjusted, even during changes in speed, and preferably in real time.

[0023] In an alternative or supplementary embodiment of the invention, the dispensed quantity of the cosmetic substance to be sprayed is varied depending on the acceleration and / or deceleration of the device. In this case, the dispensed quantity of the cosmetic substance to be sprayed is increased when the device is accelerated, while the dispensed quantity of the cosmetic substance to be sprayed is decreased when the device is decelerated.

[0024] In a further embodiment of the invention, the amount of cosmetic substance dispensed is varied depending on the inclination of the device relative to a reference point, wherein the reference point is a horizontal, a vertical, or a reference point on or at the person. It is advantageous if the amount of cosmetic substance dispensed increases as the inclination of the device relative to the reference point increases, and if the amount of cosmetic substance dispensed decreases as the inclination of the device relative to the reference point decreases.

[0025] In all three variants – whether used individually or in combination – the correct layer thickness of cosmetic substance is applied to the skin of the person using the device. This could be, for example, a sunscreen. The skin is always optimally protected with the correct sun protection factor.

[0026] In an advantageous further development of the method according to the invention, the at least one sensor can detect the voltage at the high-voltage source of the device.

[0027] Preferably, a separate sensor is provided for each type of measured value, whereby several sensors can also be used for one measured value, whose measured values ​​complement each other to form a single piece of information.

[0028] At least one additional sensor can be provided to record the further measured values, so that the processor can take the further measured values ​​into account when calculating the at least one result.

[0029] At least one additional sensor records, for example, the ambient temperature, relative humidity, air pressure, geographical altitude, the geographical position of the device, and the like.

[0030] At least one additional sensor can be housed within the device itself. Alternatively, it can be assigned to and installed in the external data processing unit. In this case, the additional measured values ​​are transmitted from the external data processing unit to the processor via the device's transmitter and receiver.

[0031] A further development of the invention provides that the processor takes the person's personal data into account when calculating at least one result. This allows the method for applying the cosmetic substance to be further personalized and adapted to the individual needs of the person.

[0032] The individual's personal data is preferably entered into an external data processing device, such as a computer, tablet, or smartphone, which is equipped with appropriate software. However, the personal data can also be obtained by the external data processing device from a database, the internet, another data source, or similar.

[0033] The person's personal data is transmitted from the external data processing device to the processor via the device's transmitting and receiving unit, so that the processor can adjust or vary the amount of cosmetic substance dispensed from the device as needed.

[0034] The personal data of the person may relate, for example, to gender, age, height, weight, skin type, skin color, skin class, skin sensitivity, nationality, self-protection time (erythema time), etc.

[0035] Furthermore, in yet another embodiment of the invention, the processor can take into account the additional external data when calculating the at least one result.

[0036] The other external data is entered into the external data processing device or determined by it using a database, on the Internet, another data source, etc., and then transmitted by the external data processing device to the processor via the device's transmitting and receiving unit.

[0037] Other external data can include the season, time of day, date, country where the person is located, geographical location where the person is located, ambient temperature, relative humidity, air pressure, geographical altitude, UV index, local UV exposure, and the like.

[0038] UV index values ​​can be obtained from publicly available databases. Alternatively, the values ​​can be determined from a built-in UV sensor in the device.

[0039] In another important embodiment of the method according to the invention, the processor compares the measured values, the other measured values, the personal data and / or the other external data with reference values ​​when calculating the at least one result. These can, for example, be designed as limit values ​​so that certain parameters are not exceeded or fallen below and the amount of cosmetic substance dispensed can be adjusted accordingly.

[0040] The reference values ​​are preferably stored in the memory.

[0041] However, the reference values ​​can also be entered into the external data processing device as a supplement or alternative, or determined by it using a database, on the Internet, another data source, etc.

[0042] The reference values ​​are transmitted from the external data processing device to the processor via the device's transmit and receive unit.

[0043] In an advantageous embodiment of the method, a movement profile of the device and / or the person operating the device is determined from the measured values ​​of at least one sensor, the further measured values ​​of at least one further sensor, the personal data of the person, the further external data and / or the results determined by the processor.

[0044] This motion profile is preferably calculated by the processor. However, it can also be calculated by the external data processing device and then transmitted to the device and the processor.

[0045] Each movement profile is appropriately assigned to a person or group of people, with the assignment being based on personal data and / or external data.

[0046] Each or selected movement profile and / or the assignment of a movement profile to a person are stored in the memory. However, the profiles can also be stored externally in the external data processing device.

[0047] This makes it possible to identify a person, namely a user of the device, and to adjust or adapt the dispensing quantity of the cosmetic substance accordingly.

[0048] An important further development of the inventive method therefore provides that the currently determined or calculated movement profile is compared with the stored movement profiles and that, in the case of at least partial agreement with a stored movement profile, the output quantity of the cosmetic substance to be sprayed from the device is adjusted or varied.

[0049] The comparison of the motion profiles is performed by the processor and / or by the external data processing device, whereby it must be determined to what degree or in what area the determined motion profile must match a stored motion profile.

[0050] An advantageous further development of the invention provides that information about the skin type and / or skin profile of the person is generated from the measured values, the further measured values, the personal data of the person, the further external data, the results calculated by the processor and / or the movement profile of the device.

[0051] This not only makes it possible to determine and achieve the individually optimal application rate for the cosmetic substance, but also allows for personalized recommendations regarding the choice of cosmetic substance to the person who intends to use the device.

[0052] The individual can enter further information or data into the external data processing device for the determination of skin type and / or skin profile. This device is equipped with appropriate software or an app for this purpose. This additional information may also include images of the individual, their face, or sections of their skin, which are uploaded to the external data processing device.

[0053] The information and details of the person are analyzed and / or evaluated by the external data processing device and processed into personal information.

[0054] This allows not only for individual adjustment of the amount of cosmetic substance dispensed. The process transmits information to the person using or intending to use the device, either via the data processing device or the device itself. This information can relate to the cosmetic substance, the manner in which the device is used, or the frequency and intervals of its application with the respective cosmetic substance.

[0055] Another embodiment of the invention provides that information about a suitable sun protection factor for the person is generated from the measured values, further measured values, the person's personal data, further external data, the results calculated by the processor, and / or the device's movement profile. Yet another embodiment of the invention provides that information about a suitable cosmetic substance for the person is generated from the measured values, further measured values, the person's personal data, further external data, the results calculated by the processor, and / or the device's movement profile.

[0056] A further development of the invention provides that time information for the person is generated from the measured values, the further measured values, the person's personal data, the further external data, the results calculated by the processor and / or the movement profile of the device.

[0057] The device and / or data processing device can thereby remind the person who used the device to reapply it, so that the cosmetic substance can always be applied optimally and have the best possible effect.

[0058] Information about the person's skin type and / or skin profile, personal information, suitable sun protection factor, suitable cosmetic substance and / or time information is preferably determined by the processor and / or the external data processing device.

[0059] Furthermore, with particular advantage, information about the person's skin type and / or skin profile, personal information, suitable sun protection factor, suitable cosmetic substance and / or time information is transmitted from the external data processing device to the processor via the device's transmitting and receiving unit and added to the person's personal data and / or other external data.

[0060] This allows the method according to the invention to perform a self-learning diagnosis and to always optimally adjust the amount of cosmetic substance dispensed to the person using the device. It is therefore an iterative learning method.

[0061] Accordingly, a further advantageous embodiment of the invention provides that, during the use of the device, the processor adjusts or varies the amount of cosmetic substance dispensed from the device based on information about the person's skin type and / or skin profile, personal information, suitable sun protection factor, information about the suitable cosmetic substance and / or time information.

[0062] In order to further individualize, personalize and / or optimize the application and delivery of the cosmetic substance, the inventive method provides that the person must enter answers to questions into the external data processing device after using the device.

[0063] The individual's responses are analyzed and / or evaluated by the external data processing device and processed into further personal information. This additional personal information is then transmitted from the external data processing device to the processor via the device's transmitting and receiving unit and added to the individual's personal data. Appropriate software or an app is also installed on the external data processing device for this purpose.

[0064] Another embodiment of the invention provides that when the device is switched on, an alternating current pulse is generated and a signal reflected by the person is detected by a sensor or another sensor.

[0065] This allows the device to be used by more than one person, for example, within a family or among friends. As soon as someone picks up the device and switches it on, an alternating current pulse is triggered. Its "echo" is sent back to the device by the person and detected there by a suitable sensor. From this information, a body volume, for example, can be calculated, which can then be used to identify the person, possibly in conjunction with other personal data. Once the person has been identified, usage data can be automatically and correctly assigned, for example, to reset an application alarm.

[0066] The device expediently has a housing in which the container for the cosmetic substance, the nozzle assembly for spraying the cosmetic substance, the conveying device for conveying the cosmetic substance from the container to the nozzle assembly, the high-voltage source, the processor for processing measured values, data and / or reference values, the memory for storing the measured values, data and / or reference values, and the transmitting and receiving unit for transmitting the measured values, data and / or reference values ​​to an external data processing device and / or for receiving further measured values, data and / or reference values ​​from the external data processing device are housed.

[0067] The processor, memory, and / or at least one additional sensor can be housed additionally or alternatively in the external data processing device. This would allow the device to be designed more compactly overall.

[0068] The external data processing device is preferably a computer, tablet, smartphone, console, or the like.

[0069] In yet another embodiment of the method according to the invention, the external data processing device stores the measured values, the further measured values, the person's personal data, the further external data, the at least one result calculated by the processor and / or the device's movement profile in a database. This database can be stored in a cloud.

[0070] From this data, the system can recognize that, for example, many comparable individuals (e.g., with the same skin type, in the same location, and with comparable UV exposure) have not applied sufficient sunscreen. This information is then passed on to the entire group of people through a learning process, and the respective device is used according to the individual. This means that—taking into account the measured values, other measured values, personal data, other external data, and / or reference values—the optimal application rate of cosmetic substance is generated for each individual.

[0071] Further features, details and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the wording of the claims and from the following description of exemplary embodiments with reference to the drawings. The drawings show: Fig. 1 a schematic representation of a device for carrying out the method according to the invention.

[0072] The in Fig. 1Device 10, shown purely schematically, is intended for applying a cosmetic substance S to the skin H of a person P (not shown in detail). The cosmetic substance S can be, for example, a skin care product, a lotion, a sunscreen, a self-tanner, an insect repellent, etc. The person is a man, a woman, or a child, regardless of age.

[0073] The device 10 is designed as an electrostatic sprayer. It comprises, within a housing 12, a container 20 for the cosmetic substance S, a nozzle assembly 30 for spraying the cosmetic substance S, a conveying device 40 for conveying the cosmetic substance S from the container 20 to the nozzle assembly 30, and a high-voltage source 50. A hose system 22, 42 is arranged between the container 20, the conveying device 40, and the nozzle assembly 30. The high-voltage source 50 has one or more electrodes (not shown) for electrostatic atomization in the nozzle assembly 30.

[0074] The housing also contains a processor 70 for processing measured values, data and / or reference values, a memory 80 for storing the measured values, data and / or reference values, and a transmit and receive unit 90 for transmitting the measured values, data and / or reference values ​​to an external data processing device 100 and / or for receiving further measured values, data and / or reference values ​​from the external data processing device 100.

[0075] The external data processing device is preferably a computer, a tablet, a smartphone, a console, or the like, which is connected to the transmitting and receiving unit 90 of the device 10 via a radio link 102.

[0076] The device 10 also has a power supply 55, for example a replaceable battery or a rechargeable battery, which can be recharged as needed via an external charger (not shown). The power supply 55 provides electrical energy to the conveying device 40, the high-voltage source 50, and the processor 70.

[0077] The device 10 can be put into operation via at least one switch or button (not shown). Acoustic and / or visual signaling devices (also not shown) provide information – if required – about the operating status of the device 10 and the fill level in the container 20. If required, the device 10 can also be equipped with a display (also not shown).

[0078] In one embodiment of the inventive method, the measured values ​​are acquired and / or determined and transmitted to the processor 70. The processor 70 then processes the measured values ​​using suitable software to produce at least one result. Based on this result, the processor 70 varies the dispensing quantity of the cosmetic substance S to be sprayed from the device 10.

[0079] The output quantity can be varied by the processor 70 controlling the conveying device 40, for example by the conveying device 40 delivering more or less of the cosmetic substance from the container 20 to the nozzle assembly 30. Preferably, the conveying speed is controlled. However, the conveying volume can also be changed or adjusted.

[0080] The processor 70 can - additionally or alternatively - vary the amount of cosmetic substance S to be sprayed by regulating the high voltage source 50, for example by changing the high voltage applied to the electrodes.

[0081] It is also conceivable that the processor 70 varies the application rate of the cosmetic substance S to be sprayed by changing the nozzle arrangement 30. For example, the nozzle cross-sections can be influenced, or individual nozzles can be added or deactivated. It is also conceivable to influence the spray angle.

[0082] It is advantageous if the application rate of the cosmetic substance S to be sprayed is varied in real time based on the results calculated by the processor. In this way, changes in the measured values ​​are immediately taken into account and the application rate is adjusted accordingly, which has a positive effect on the distribution of the cosmetic substance on the skin H of person P.

[0083] The device 10 can be designed in such a way that, in addition to the measured values, further measured values, personal data of person P, further external data and / or reference values ​​are taken into account when calculating at least one result.

[0084] The device 10 can be equipped with at least one sensor 60 for recording measured values. According to the inventive method, this sensor is used such that the measured values ​​are recorded during the application of the cosmetic substance S to the skin H of person P.

[0085] For example, sensor 60 detects a speed while device 10 is moved by person P. These measurements are transmitted to processor 70 and evaluated. In this way, it is possible to vary the application rate of the cosmetic substance S depending on the speed of device 10; that is, the application rate is adjusted to the movement of device 10 by person P. As the speed increases, the application rate can be increased via processor 70, while as the speed decreases, the application rate of the cosmetic substance S is reduced.

[0086] The speed can be detected via a sensor 60. However, multiple sensors, preferably three sensors 60, can also be used to detect the speed of the device 10 in all three spatial directions. The measured values ​​are forwarded to the processor 70, which processes the measured values ​​and calculates movement data (results). Based on this movement data, the optimal spray quantity is calculated and the application rate is varied accordingly, preferably in real time.

[0087] This makes it possible to generate a movement-dependent, variable application rate of the cosmetic substance S to achieve a desired layer thickness.

[0088] For example, with sunscreens, the correct level of protection for each individual requires, on the one hand, the correct UV filter concentration in the cosmetic substance, and on the other hand, that this substance be applied to the skin in the correct layer thickness. Too little sunscreen "dilutes" the sun protection (for example, a sunscreen with SPF 50, if applied too thinly, only provides the same protection as a sunscreen with SPF 30). Furthermore, consumers apply, on average, 80 to 90% too little sunscreen to their skin, which also prevents optimal sun protection.

[0089] Applying the correct layer thickness with a sprayer requires a precise interplay between the speed of the hand using the device and the application rate when using handheld devices. Conventional sprayers only have a constant application rate. However, because the movement speed of the arm of the person applying the sunscreen varies, and because the person's movements during the spraying process also differ, a constant application rate results in varying layer thicknesses.

[0090] The method according to the invention, however, provides that the movement speed of the device 10 is detected via the installed sensors 60. The measured values ​​are transmitted to the processor 70, which analyzes the measured values ​​and calculates movement data. Based on these results, i.e., depending on the

[0091] The speed of movement of the device 10 varies the amount of cosmetic substance S dispensed, ensuring that the optimal amount of substance S is always applied to each section of the skin H of person P. This variation in the dispensed amount can be achieved by controlling and / or modifying the conveying device 40, the high-voltage source 50, and / or the nozzle arrangement 30 via the processor 70.

[0092] In an alternative or supplementary embodiment of the method, the application rate of the cosmetic substance S to be sprayed is varied depending on the acceleration and / or deceleration of the device 10. For example, the application rate is increased when the device 10 is accelerated, while the application rate is decreased when the device 10 is decelerated.

[0093] It is also possible to vary the application rate of the cosmetic substance S to be sprayed depending on the inclination of the device 10 relative to a reference point, where the reference point is a horizontal, a vertical, or a reference point on or at the person P. For example, it is advantageous if the application rate increases as the inclination of the device 10 relative to the reference point increases, while the application rate decreases as the inclination of the device 10 relative to the reference point decreases.

[0094] Because the skin H of individuals P varies and consumers' geographical locations can differ, the ideal values ​​for a sun protection factor also vary from consumer to consumer. With fixed, specific sun protection factors, the level of protection provided varies for each user.

[0095] The method according to the invention offers the possibility of individually adapting the application to a wide variety of persons P by varying the application quantity and thus the layer thickness of the cosmetic substance S, by recording and / or determining further measured values, personal data of the person P, further external data and / or reference values ​​and transmitting them to the processor 70.

[0096] This allows for personalized control of the actual sun protection factor applied by, for example, deliberately applying too little of a sunscreen with a sun protection factor of 50, i.e., the sun protection factor 50 is "diluted" to 30.

[0097] The ideal, person-specific application rate can therefore be determined via the learned, person-specific diagnostic data and the target layer thickness. However, this means that the device can only hold, for example, a single type of sunscreen that is used for a wide variety of people. For instance, the device 10 is filled with a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 50. Using the method according to the invention, this substance S can be "diluted" into different SPFs and thus made available for mass personalization.

[0098] For the acquisition of further measured values, at least one further sensor 66 can be provided so that the processor 70 can take the further measured values ​​into account when calculating the at least one result.

[0099] The at least one additional sensor 66 records, for example, the ambient temperature, the relative humidity, the air pressure, the geographical altitude, the geographical position of the device 10 and the like.

[0100] At least one additional sensor can be housed within the device 10 itself. Alternatively, it can be assigned to and installed in the external data processing device 100. In this case, the additional measured values ​​are transmitted from the external data processing device 100 to the processor 70 via the transmitter and receiver unit 90 of the device 10.

[0101] The processor 70 can also take into account the personal data of person P when calculating at least one result. This data is preferably entered into the external data processing device 100, e.g., a computer, tablet, or smartphone, which is equipped with appropriate software and communicates with the device 10 via the radio link 102. However, the personal data can also be obtained by the external data processing device 100 from a database, the internet, another data source, or the like.

[0102] The person's personal data is transmitted from the external data processing device 100 via the transmitting and receiving unit 90 of the device 10 to the processor 70, so that the processor can adjust or vary the amount of cosmetic substance S to be sprayed from the device 10 as needed.

[0103] The personal data of the person relates, for example, to gender, age, height, weight, skin type, skin color, skin class, skin sensitivity, nationality, self-protection time (erythema time), etc.

[0104] Further adjustments to the procedure, further individualizations to the person P using the device 10, and thus an even more precise adjustment and personalization of the output quantity, are achieved when the processor 70 takes the further external data into account when calculating at least one result.

[0105] The remaining external data is preferably entered into the external data processing device 100 or retrieved by it from a database, the internet, another data source, or the like. The data is then transmitted from the external data processing device 100 to the processor 72 via the transmitting and receiving unit 90 of the device 10.

[0106] Other external data can include the season, time of day, date, country where the person is located, geographical location where the person is located, ambient temperature, relative humidity, air pressure, geographical altitude, UV index, local UV exposure, and the like.

[0107] For further individualization and optimization of the output quantity of cosmetic substance S from the device 10 when applied by a person P, the processor 70 can compare the measured values, the other measured values, the personal data and / or the other external data with reference values ​​when calculating at least one result.

[0108] These reference values ​​are preferably limit values ​​that restrict one or more parameters upwards and / or downwards, ensuring that the specified value is neither exceeded nor fallen below. In this way, for example, temperature ranges or times of day can be defined to adjust the application rate of cosmetic substance S accordingly.

[0109] The reference values ​​are preferably stored in memory. However, they can also be entered into the external data processing device 100 or determined by it using a database, the internet, another data source, or the like. After the reference values ​​have been determined, they are transmitted by the external data processing device 100 to the device 10 or the processor 70 via the transmitting and receiving unit 90.

[0110] The development of the method according to the invention makes it possible to realize a wide variety of applications.

[0111] For example, it is possible to identify a user, i.e. a person P, and to adjust or vary the output quantity of the device 10 according to the identified person.

[0112] This is necessary if the device is used by more than one person P (e.g., within a family, a group, or among friends). Consequently, the task arises of automatically assigning the usage data correctly to the individual user P in order to, for example, adjust the application rate, trigger a time alarm for repeated application of the cosmetic substance S—such as sunscreen—or remind the user to change the container and thus the substance S. Manually assigning the usage data (e.g., before or after spraying) would be impractical and would often be forgotten anyway.

[0113] In an advantageous embodiment of the method, a movement profile of the device 10 and / or the person P operating the device 10 is therefore determined from the measured values ​​of the at least one sensor 60, the further measured values ​​of the at least one further sensor 66, the personal data of the person, the further external data and / or the results determined by the processor. This movement profile is preferably calculated by the processor 70. However, it can also be calculated by the external data processing device 100 and then transmitted to the device 10 and the processor 70.

[0114] Each movement profile is appropriately assigned to a person P or a group of people, whereby the assignment is made on the basis of personal data and / or external data.

[0115] This enables the device 10 to capture and identify a person's unique movement patterns, similar to a fingerprint, for example, during a cream application process. If, for instance, two people P are of different heights, the device 10 will cover a different distance in the room for each person during the application. Furthermore, the device will be held differently, meaning that acceleration and tilt can also vary. Each person thus moves the device 10 along their body during application, following the body's contours. By capturing this movement profile (via speed, tilt, and acceleration), a body shape can be recorded, enabling personal identification.The more frequently a person P sprays themselves, the more accurately the device records the body shape and motor profile, so that after the device has been "trained", reliable user recognition is always possible.

[0116] This also allows usage data to be automatically assigned to an identified user as soon as that user moves the device or enters or retrieves their personal data.

[0117] Each or selected movement profile and / or the assignment of a movement profile to a person are stored in memory 80. The profiles can also be stored externally in the external data processing device 100. In this way, the movement profiles can be compared; that is, if a person starts spraying themselves, the processor 70 can recognize the person.

[0118] In a further embodiment, the device 10 can trigger an alternating current pulse as soon as person P picks up and switches it on. The signal reflected by the person allows for the calculation of body volume. If two people P have different heights and weights, the echo will also generate different signals. These signals can then be used by the device 10 to distinguish between the two people P.

[0119] The method according to the invention also enables the performance of diagnoses and the individual recommendation of a cosmetic substance S, for example with regard to the selection of a sunscreen with a specific sun protection factor.

[0120] Consumers often don't know which sun protection factor (SPF) is ideal for them. Typically, they choose the next best SPF or always the same, familiar one. Sunburn incidence rates indicate that consumers are making mistakes in their selection.

[0121] Several parameters are taken into account when choosing the correct sun protection factor.

[0122] First, the specific local UV exposure must be taken into account. While end consumers can obtain information about UV exposure from public institutions (including via smartphone), this data is often very inaccurate because the UV index is not collected comprehensively (in Germany, for example, only once per federal state).

[0123] Another parameter to consider is the highly individual natural protection time, or erythema time, of one's own skin. Consumers can estimate their natural protection time by visually assigning themselves to one of five skin type categories. However, these skin types represent a significant simplification and do not allow for abnormally long natural protection times (e.g., dark skin with high sensitivity). Furthermore, it should be assumed that the actual UV exposure and the natural protection time are not linearly related.

[0124] Ultimately, the sun protection factor (SPF) itself is only an approximate value. It is determined for a given formulation using a standardized procedure by measuring the duration of sunburn with sunscreen applied to a defined number of test subjects. The results are then weighted and converted into a value for the SPF. Due to the reliance on averaging alone, as well as the general difficulties of achieving homogeneous application, this value is by no means precise.

[0125] The method according to the invention provides a remedy here.

[0126] By taking into account and entering the further measured values, the personal data of person P, the further external data and / or the reference values, an individual determination of one's own skin profile can be carried out via the device 10, preferably on the external data processing device 100 and by means of software (app) installed on it.

[0127] This software can, for example, ask 10 questions before the device is used, which person P must answer. The questions can be supplemented by an image of the person, e.g., a photo of their face or of selected sensitive skin areas. The software analyzes the entered answers and images and creates personal data from them, which is then transmitted from the external data processing device 100 via the transmitting and receiving unit 90 to the device 10 and thus to the processor 70.

[0128] The personal data can be supplemented by obtaining UV index values, for example from publicly available data or from a UV sensor built into the device 10 (not shown).

[0129] The processor processes all measured values, including other measurements, personal data, and external data, and calculates a result that is used to recommend an ideal sun protection factor (SPF). This value can be displayed by the device itself or by an external data processing device.

[0130] Furthermore, the processor can use the measured values, other measured values, the person's personal data, and other external data to generate information about the skin type and / or skin profile of person P and vary the application rate of the cosmetic substance S accordingly.

[0131] This not only makes it possible to determine and implement the individually optimal application rate for cosmetic substance S, but also allows for personalized recommendations regarding the selection of cosmetic substance S to person P, who intends to use the device 10. Time windows can be specified within which substance S should ideally be applied. Reminder signals can be generated to remind person P to reapply substance S.

[0132] In a further embodiment of the method according to the invention, the device 10 can perform a self-learning diagnosis and always optimally adjust the dispensed amount of the cosmetic substance S to the person P using the device 10. It is therefore an iterative learning method.

[0133] Another variant provides that, during the use of the device 10, the processor 70 adjusts or varies the amount of cosmetic substance dispensed from the device based on information about the skin type and / or skin profile of person P, personal information, the appropriate sun protection factor, information about the appropriate cosmetic substance S and / or time information.

[0134] Based on the available measurements, information and data, the device 10 can remind person P at the right time to apply sunscreen, when to put on sunglasses, when to get completely out of the sun, etc.

[0135] In another variation, the device 10 can also remind the person P when they need to reapply the cosmetic substance, for example, because sunscreen typically wears off through exercise and swimming. The exact time of the sunscreen alert is determined by the measurements, information, and data transmitted to the device 10 or the processor 70. This personal information can also include data about a movement profile (during physical activity) or other personal data (e.g., perspiration patterns).

[0136] In this way, the device 10, using the method according to the invention, effectively prevents sunburn. The device ensures that the person always uses the correct sun protection factor and, above all, applies the correct amount of cosmetic substance S at the right time. Furthermore, the movement profiles can detect whether any area of ​​skin has not been sufficiently or at all covered with sunscreen.

[0137] In order to further individualize, personalize and / or optimize the application and application of the cosmetic substance S, the method according to the invention provides that the person P must enter answers to questions into the external data processing device 100 after using the device 10.

[0138] The person's answers are analyzed and / or evaluated by the external data processing device 100 and processed into further personal information, whereby the further personal information is transmitted from the external data processing device 100 to the processor via the transmitting and receiving unit 90 of the device 10 and added to the person's personal data.

[0139] In yet another embodiment of the method according to the invention, the external data processing device stores the measured values, the further measured values, the person's personal data, the further external data, the at least one result calculated by the processor and / or the device's movement profile in a database. This database can be stored in a cloud.

[0140] From this data, the system can recognize that, for example, many comparable individuals (e.g., with the same skin type, in the same location, and with comparable UV exposure) have not applied sufficient sunscreen. This information is then passed on to the entire group of people through a learning process, and the respective device is used according to the individual. This means that—taking into account the measured values, other measured values, personal data, other external data, and / or reference values—the optimal application rate of cosmetic substance is generated for each individual.

[0141] By collecting this usage data from all devices, it is possible to identify user groups and derive recommendations for the individual user from the behavior of similar user groups.

[0142] The invention is not limited to one of the embodiments described above, but can be modified in a variety of ways, as long as the resulting embodiments fall within the scope of the attached claims.

[0143] Thus, two or three sensors can also be used to detect the acceleration and tilt of the device.

[0144] Preferably, a separate sensor is provided for each type of measured value, whereby several sensors can also be used for one measured value, whose measured values ​​complement each other to form a single piece of information.

[0145] In a further development of the inventive method, the at least one sensor can detect the voltage at the high-voltage source of the device and forward this information to the processor.

[0146] It is also conceivable to use optical or acoustic signal transmitters directly in the device, which indicate a cosmetic substance to be used, remind the user to apply the substance, or provide other information to the person using the device.

[0147] It can be seen that the invention relates to a method for applying a cosmetic substance S to the skin H of a person P, using a device 10 for electrostatically spraying the cosmetic substance S. The device 10 has a container 20, a nozzle arrangement 30, a conveying device 40, a high-voltage source 50, a processor 70 for processing measured values, data and / or reference values, a memory 80, and a transmit and receive unit 90 for transmitting the measured values, data and / or reference values ​​to an external data processing device 100 and / or for receiving further measured values, data and / or reference values ​​from the external data processing device 100. The method provides that the measured values ​​and, if applicable,further measured values, personal data of person P, further external data and / or reference values ​​are recorded and / or determined and transmitted to the processor 70, wherein the processor 70 processes the measured values, the further measured values, the personal data, the further external data and / or the reference values ​​to at least one result and varies the output quantity of the cosmetic substance S to be sprayed from the device 10 on the basis of these results.

[0148] All features and advantages arising from the claims, the description and the drawing, including design details, spatial arrangements and process steps, can be essential to the invention both individually and in various combinations.

Claims

1. A non-therapeutic method for applying a cosmetic substance (S) to the skin (H) of a person (P), using a device (10) for the electrostatic spraying of the cosmetic substance (S), the device (10) comprising, ▪ a container (20) for the cosmetic substance (S), ▪ a nozzle assembly (30) for atomising the cosmetic substance (S), ▪ a delivery mechanism (40) for delivering the cosmetic substance (S) from the container (20) to the nozzle assembly (30), ▪ a high-voltage source (50), ▪ a processor (70) for processing measured values, data and / or reference values, ▪ a memory (80) for storing the measured values, data and / or reference values, ▪ a transmission and reception unit (90) for transmitting the measured values, data and / or reference values to an external data processing device (100) and / or for receiving further measured values, data and / or reference values from the external data processing device (100), the method comprising the following steps: a) the measured values, further measured values, personal data of the person (P), further external data and / or reference values are recorded and / or determined and transmitted to the processor (70), b) the processor (70) processes the measured values, the further measured values, the personal data, the further external data and / or the reference values to produce at least one result, c) information regarding a cosmetic substance suitable for the person is generated from the measured values, the further measured values, the personal data of the person, the further external data and / or the results calculated by the processor, d) whereby information relating to the cosmetic substance is provided, via the external data-processing device or via the device itself, to the person who is using or intends to use the device, e) the processor (70) varies the dispensing quantity of the cosmetic substance (S) to be sprayed from the device (10) on the basis of the results.

2. Non-therapeutic method according to claim 1, characterised in that the suitable cosmetic substance is determined by the processor and / or by the external data processing device3. A non-therapeutic method according to claim 1 or 2, characterised in that the information regarding the suitable cosmetic substance is transmitted from the external data processing device to the processor via the device's transmission and reception unit and is added to the person's personal data and / or to the further external data,4. A non-therapeutic method according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the processor (70) varies the dispensing quantity of the cosmetic substance (S) to be sprayed by controlling the delivery device (40).

5. A non-therapeutic method according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the processor (70) varies the discharge rate of the cosmetic substance (S) to be sprayed by controlling the high-voltage source (50).

6. A non-therapeutic method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the processor (70) varies the discharge rate of the cosmetic substance (S) to be sprayed by influencing the nozzle arrangement (30).

7. A non-therapeutic method according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that at least one further sensor (66) records the further measured values, wherein the processor (70) takes the further measured values into account when calculating the at least one result.

8. V A non-therapeutic method according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the processor (70) takes into account the personal data of the person (P) when calculating the at least one result.

9. A non-therapeutic method according to claim 8, characterised in that the personal data of the person (P) is entered into the external data processing device (100) and / or is determined by the latter on the basis of a database, the Internet, another data source, or the like.

10. A non-therapeutic method according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the processor (70) takes the further external data into account when calculating the at least one result.

11. A non-therapeutic method according to claim 10, characterised in that the further external data are entered into the external data processing device (100) or are determined by it on the basis of a database, the Internet, another data source, or the like.

12. A non-therapeutic method according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that, when calculating the at least one result, the processor (70) compares the measured values, the further measured values, the personal data and / or the further external data with reference values.

13. A non-therapeutic method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that information regarding the skin type and / or skin profile of the person (P) is generated from the measured values, the further measured values, the personal data of the person (P), the further external data, the results calculated by the processor and / or the movement profile of the device (10).

14. A non-therapeutic method according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that information regarding a sun protection factor suitable for the person (P) is generated from the measured values, the further measured values, the personal data of the person (P), the further external data, the results calculated by the processor and / or the movement profile of the device (10).

15. A non-therapeutic method according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that information regarding a cosmetic substance (S) suitable for the person (P) is generated from the measured values, the further measured values, the personal data of the person (P), the further external data, the results calculated by the processor and / or the movement profile of the device (10).

16. A non-therapeutic method according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that time-related information for the person (P) is generated from the measured values, the further measured values, the personal data of the person (P), the further external data, the results calculated by the processor and / or the movement profile of the device (10).

17. A non-therapeutic method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the information regarding the skin type and / or skin profile of the person (P), the personal information, the suitable sun protection factor, the suitable cosmetic substance (S) and / or the time information is transmitted from the external data processing device (100) via the transmission and reception unit (90) of the device (10) to the processor (70) and added to the personal data of the person (P) and / or to the other external data.

18. A device (10) for applying a cosmetic substance (S) to the skin (H) of a person (P), comprising a) a container (20) for the cosmetic substance (S), b) a nozzle assembly (30) for spraying the cosmetic substance (S), c) a delivery device (40) for delivering the cosmetic substance (S) from the container to the nozzle assembly (30), d) a high-voltage source (50), e) a processor (70) for processing measured values, wherein the device (10) comprises at least one sensor (60) and wherein the measured values are recorded by the at least one sensor (60) whilst the cosmetic substance (S) is being applied to the skin (H) of the person (P), f) a memory (80) for storing the measured values, g) a transmission and reception unit (90) for transmitting the measured values to an external data-processing device (100) and / or for receiving further measured values, further personal data relating to the person (P) and / or further external data from the external data-processing device (100), h) wherein the transmission and reception unit (90) is configured and designed to acquire and / or determine the measured values, further measured values, further personal data of the person (P) and / or further external data, and to transmit them to the processor (70), i) wherein the processor (70) is configured and designed to process the measured values, the further measured values, the further personal data of the person (P) and / or the further external data to produce at least one result, j) wherein the processor (70) is configured to process reference values, k) wherein the processor (70) is configured to process the measured values, the reference values, the further measured values, the further personal data, the further external data and / or the further reference values to produce at least one result, l) wherein, when calculating the at least one result, the processor (70) compares the measured values, the further measured values, the personal data and / or the further external data with the reference values, m) wherein the processor (70) is further configured and designed to vary, on the basis of the at least one result, the discharge rate of the cosmetic substance (S) to be sprayed from the device (10), and n) wherein the device (10) is designed and configured to provide information to the person (P) who is using or intends to use the device, either via the external data-processing device (100) or via the device (10) itself.

19. A device for applying a cosmetic substance (S) to the skin (H) of a person (P), in particular by a method according to any one of claims 1 to 17, comprising a device (10) according to claim 18 and an external data-processing device (100) such as, for example, a computer, a tablet, a smartphone or the like, wherein the external data-processing device is designed and configured to provide information to the person (P) who is using or intends to use the device.