Beauty device

Abstract

To provide a beautification apparatus which enhances efficiency of imparting heat to obtain maximum effect on beauty by lowering a frequency of stopping electrification in a range of permitting securing safety in a state that an electrode part does not move and stops onto the skin when imparting stimulation by electrification to the skin of a user.SOLUTION: Electrode parts 13, 14 for giving stimulation by electrification are arranged as a stimulation imparting part for imparting stimulation related to beauty to the skin, and electrification control is performed by a control part. Due to that a lapse time from electrification start is measured, and electrification is continuously executed until at least a set duration time passes, electrification is performed during the duration time even when an apparatus is moved so as to frequently repeat movement and stop, and a situation that electrification is performed little by little with interruption according to the switchover of from movement to start or and vice versa is not made, and electrification is appropriately continued so as to efficiently impart stimulation.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a beauty device that provides a predetermined beauty-related effect to the user's skin. In the present invention, the "stimulation application unit" that applies stimulation to the skin refers not only to those that give stimulation in the general sense on the skin such as contact, but also to those that cause an action on the skin with an intensity that cannot be consciously felt by a person even when externally applied, such as energizing the skin with a weak current. As long as it has a mechanism for intentionally applying it to the skin, it shall be included in the "stimulation application unit".

Background Art

[0002] Beauty devices that perform various operations related to predetermined beauty and skin care on the skin of the user's face and other parts (skin) are used in various types, ranging from simple single-function, low-output ones used at home to multi-function, high-output ones used for business.

[0003] Among such beauty devices, those that supply a current in a frequency band called high-frequency or radio frequency (RF; Radio Frequency) from an electrode in contact with the skin to the skin, and locally warm a part of the body such as the skin by the heat generation action of this current to obtain a beauty effect have been attracting attention in recent years. As an example of such a conventional beauty device, there is one disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2014-87687.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] Conventional beauty devices have the configuration shown in the aforementioned patent document. When using such devices, the user typically applies the electrodes for conducting electricity, which protrude from the main body of the device, to the skin of the target of beauty treatment, such as the face, and then applies electricity to the skin, thereby stimulating the skin with electricity.

[0006] In conventional devices, when electrodes are placed in contact with the skin and electricity is passed through the skin, if the device is not moved and electricity is continuously passed through a fixed area of ​​skin, there is a risk of excessive stimulation from the electric current or excessive heat being generated at the site of the current, which may cause discomfort to the user. Therefore, a sensor is installed to detect the movement of the device, determine when the device has stopped, and interrupt the current supply when the device is stopped.

[0007] However, when controlling the power supply based on the detection of such sensors, if the device is moved in a way that involves repeated small movements and stops, the power supply will be switched on and off in small increments based on the sensor detection corresponding to the movement, which presents a problem in that the treatment effect is reduced.

[0008] The present invention was made to solve the aforementioned problems, and aims to provide a beauty device that, when applying electrical stimulation to the user's skin, reduces the frequency of stopping the electrical current when the electrode part remains stationary in contact with the skin, within a range that ensures safety, thereby increasing the efficiency of applying stimulation such as heat, and maximizing the effects related to beauty. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] The beauty device disclosed in the present invention is a beauty device equipped with a stimulation unit capable of applying a predetermined stimulus related to beauty to the user's skin, comprising: a plurality of electrode units as a stimulation unit, formed of at least a conductive material and arranged to be in contact with the user's skin; and a control unit electrically connected to the electrode units and capable of controlling at least the state of electrical conduction between each electrode unit related to stimulation through the user's body, wherein the control unit starts measuring the elapsed time from the start of electrical conduction when electrical conduction between each electrode unit begins, and after a predetermined duration has elapsed, it temporarily reduces or stops the electrical output, and if a movement state of the electrode unit is acquired, it returns to the state of electrical conduction, while if a movement state cannot be acquired, it continues the reduced or stopped state of electrical output until a new movement state is acquired, or, when the duration has elapsed since the start of measuring the elapsed time from the start of electrical conduction, if a movement state of the electrode unit is acquired, it continues the state of electrical conduction, while if a movement state cannot be acquired, it reduces or stops the electrical output and continues the reduced or stopped state of electrical output until a new movement state is acquired.

[0010] As described above, according to the disclosure of the present invention, an electrode section that provides stimulation to the skin when an electric current is passed through it is provided as a stimulation-providing section for cosmetic purposes, and the electric current is controlled by a control unit, which measures the elapsed time from the start of electric current application and continues to apply electric current until at least the set duration has elapsed. As a result, even if the device is moved in a manner that involves frequent movement and stopping, electric current can be applied for the duration of the set period, and the electric current will not be interrupted and made in small increments in accordance with the switching from movement to stopping or vice versa. Instead, electric current can be applied continuously and appropriately to efficiently provide stimulation.

[0011] Furthermore, even if the electrode is stopped while in contact with the skin during energization, if the duration used as a guideline for timing is set to at least within the continuous energization time that ensures skin safety, the control unit will not be able to acquire the movement status of the electrode when it stops, and the energization that continues until the energization output is reduced or stopped will not exceed the duration. This allows for stimulation while maintaining a safe state for the skin, and it is possible to achieve both a state of continuous energization within a safe range and a state of reducing or stopping the energization output in response to the stopping of the electrode, thereby preventing the user from experiencing discomfort due to electric current stimulation or excessive heat caused by the energization continuing even when the device is accidentally stopped.

[0012] Furthermore, the beauty apparatus disclosed in the present invention may, if necessary, have the control unit reduce or stop the power supply output for a predetermined output reduction period of a set length after the duration has elapsed since the start of power supply. If the electrode movement state is acquired during the output reduction period, the control unit returns to the power supply state at the start of power supply after the output reduction period has elapsed. On the other hand, if the movement state cannot be acquired, the reduced or stopped power supply output is maintained until a new movement state is acquired after the output reduction period has elapsed.

[0013] As described above, according to the disclosure of the present invention, an output reduction period is set after the duration has elapsed, and whether or not the state of movement of the electrode part is acquired during this output reduction period determines whether or not it is possible to return to the energized state after the output reduction period has elapsed. Therefore, even if the electrode part is continuously moving, the energized output will be reduced or stopped during the output reduction period, ensuring a period during which no stimulation is applied to the skin by electric current, and allowing stimulation to be performed without difficulty while maintaining skin safety.

[0014] Furthermore, the beauty apparatus disclosed in the present invention may, if necessary, have the control unit reduce or stop the power supply output for a predetermined output reduction period of a set length after the start of power supply has elapsed. If the electrode movement state is acquired during the output reduction period, the output reduction period is terminated and the device immediately returns to the power supply state at the start of power supply. However, if the movement state cannot be acquired, the reduced or stopped power supply output is maintained until a new movement state is acquired after the output reduction period has elapsed.

[0015] As described above, according to the disclosure of the present invention, an output reduction period is set after the duration has elapsed, and whether or not the electrode movement state is acquired during this output reduction period determines whether or not the device can return to the energized state during the output reduction period. If the electrode movement frequency is high, even if the device transitions to the output reduction period, it will return to the energized state in a short time. This minimizes the time required to reduce or stop the energized output, and while considering skin safety, it is possible to maximize the stimulation to the skin through electrical stimulation, thereby efficiently providing stimulation.

[0016] Furthermore, the beauty apparatus disclosed in the present invention may, if necessary, have the control unit reduce or stop the power supply output for a predetermined output reduction period of a set length after the duration has elapsed since the start of power supply, and acquire the cumulative value of the period during which the movement state of the electrode part can be acquired between the duration and the output reduction period. If the cumulative value is equal to or greater than a set reference time, the control unit returns to the power supply state at the start of power supply after the output reduction period has elapsed. On the other hand, if the cumulative value is less than the reference time, the reduced or stopped power supply output is maintained until a new movement state is acquired after the output reduction period has elapsed.

[0017] As described above, according to the disclosure of the present invention, an output reduction time is set after the duration has elapsed, and the cumulative value of the period during which the movement state of the electrode part can be obtained between the duration and the output reduction time is obtained. Based on a comparison of the magnitude of this cumulative value with respect to a reference time, it is determined whether or not to return to the energized state after the output reduction time has elapsed. If the movement of the electrode part exceeds a certain standard, the energization will be repeated even after the output reduction time has elapsed, and the time during which the energization output is reduced or stopped can be minimized, thereby improving the efficiency of applying stimulation to the skin by applying electricity while ensuring skin safety.

[0018] Furthermore, the beauty apparatus disclosed in the present invention may optionally include a movement detection means capable of detecting changes in physical quantities associated with the movement of the electrode portion, and a determination unit that determines the movement state of the electrode portion based on the detection content of the movement detection means, wherein the control unit acquires the movement state of the electrode portion from the determination result of the determination unit.

[0019] As described above, according to the disclosure of the present invention, a movement detection means for detecting changes in physical quantities caused by the movement of the electrode is provided, along with a determination unit that determines the movement state of the electrode based on the detection by the movement detection means. The acquisition of the movement state of the electrode by the control unit is based on the determination of the determination unit. When the detection unit detects a change related to the movement of the electrode, the determination unit first determines whether or not it can be considered a movement state. The determination unit filters the detected movement content detected by the movement detection means based on the conditions, eliminating the possibility of treating slight movements that should not be considered a movement state, such as slight movements of the electrode that are almost at rest, as a movement state. This makes it possible to more reliably prevent small bursts of current flow and avoid continuous current flow in a virtually stopped state where the electrode hardly moves, thereby improving the safety of current flow.

[0020] Furthermore, the beauty apparatus disclosed in the present invention may, if necessary, have the determination unit receive the output of the movement detection means, whose size changes in accordance with the change in the physical quantity, as a determination of the movement state. If the output satisfies a preset condition, it is determined to be in a movement state, while if the condition is not met, it is determined not to be in a movement state.

[0021] According to the disclosure of the present invention, when the determination unit determines the movement state of the electrode unit from the detection content of the movement detection means, for the output of the movement detection means whose magnitude changes according to the magnitude of the change in the physical quantity indicating the movement of the electrode unit, only when a predetermined condition set in advance is satisfied is determined as the movement state, and based on this determination result, the energization state is controlled by the control unit. By setting a condition that can extract only the movement corresponding to appropriate movement for the condition that the change in the output of the movement detection means should satisfy, even if the electrode unit moves slightly, it is not determined as the movement state, and continuous energization in a substantially stationary state where the electrode unit hardly moves can be avoided. For example, even when the electrode unit in contact with the skin moves according to a slight movement of the user's body and detection by the movement detection means is performed even when the electrode unit is in a relatively stationary state with respect to the skin, the determination unit can be prevented from determining it as the movement state, preventing energization execution in the substantially stationary state and improving safety.

[0022] Further, the beauty device according to the disclosure of the present invention, as needed, the movement detection means is an acceleration sensor that detects acceleration, and the determination unit receives an output corresponding to the acceleration from the movement detection means and determines the movement state.

[0023] According to the disclosure of the present invention, for the output of the movement detection means as an acceleration sensor in which the movement of the electrode unit is detected as a change in acceleration, the determination unit determines it as the movement state only when a predetermined condition set in advance is satisfied. By doing so, for the condition that the change in the output of the movement detection means should satisfy, movements corresponding to appropriate movement, for example, the number of times the acceleration becomes a predetermined reference value or more within a predetermined time or the time exceeds the set minimum value, can be extracted. In a state where the electrode unit hardly moves but causes a slight acceleration change, the determination unit can be prevented from determining it as the movement state, and energization can be performed more safely.

[0024] Further, the beauty device according to the disclosure of the present invention, as required, is such that the control unit acquires the cumulative time for all energizations to the electrode unit, and when the cumulative time exceeds a predetermined limit time, the control unit changes the continuous time to a smaller value.

[0025] Thus, according to the disclosure of the present invention, the cumulative time of energization of the electrode unit by the control unit is acquired. When this cumulative time exceeds the time of a preset limit value, the value of the continuous time used as a standard for each energization start is made smaller, and by limiting the continuous energization time for each time to be short, the time during which energization continues even when the electrode unit is in a stopped state is shortened as the usage time becomes longer, suppressing the accumulation of the influence on the skin due to continuous energization, preventing a situation that leads to discomfort such as overheating of the skin, and further enhancing safety.

[0026] Further, the beauty device according to the disclosure of the present invention, as required, is such that the control unit acquires the cumulative time for all energizations to the electrode unit, and when the cumulative time exceeds a predetermined limit time, at least when in an energized state, the control unit executes control to reduce the energization output.

[0027] Thus, according to the disclosure of the present invention, the cumulative time of energization of the electrode unit by the control unit is acquired. When this cumulative time exceeds the time of a preset limit value, the control unit performs control to reduce the energization output in the energized state, suppressing energization regardless of the moving state or stopped state of the electrode unit. As the usage becomes longer, the energization output is reduced, suppressing the accumulation of the influence on the skin due to continuous energization, preventing a situation that leads to discomfort such as overheating of the skin, and further enhancing safety. Also, it can reduce the further burden on the skin due to additional energization for a longer usage time and a longer stimulation time, and can suppress power consumption.

[0028] Further, the beauty device according to the disclosure of the present invention, as required, is such that the control unit acquires, as the cumulative time, the total effective energization time obtained by integrating the time in the energized state at the predetermined output after the start of the first energization.

[0029] As described above, according to the disclosure of the present invention, the cumulative time acquired by the control unit is taken as the total effective energizing time, which is the time spent energizing at a predetermined output. When performing control, the total time spent actually energizing the skin at a predetermined output is used to make the execution decision. This allows for a more accurate evaluation of the burden on the skin caused by energizing, and enables the execution of energizing-related controls such as time limits and output adjustments, thereby enabling the reduction of the burden on the skin at an appropriate timing when the usage time is prolonged.

[0030] Furthermore, the beauty device disclosed in the present invention may, if necessary, reduce or stop the power output if the control unit determines that the device has been in a moving state for a predetermined time limit or longer.

[0031] As described above, according to the disclosure of the present invention, if the determination unit determines that the device is in a moving state and this state continues for longer than a preset time limit, the control unit recognizes this as an abnormality and suppresses the power supply. Therefore, even if the electrode unit is in a stationary state but the determination unit mistakenly determines it to be in a moving state and the control unit is supplying power, the power supply can be suppressed to ensure safety and prevent excessive stimulation from being applied to the user, thus preventing discomfort.

[0032] Furthermore, if necessary, the beauty apparatus disclosed in the present invention may cause the control unit to issue a predetermined notification regarding an abnormality in the determination unit if the determination unit determines that the device has been in a moving state for a predetermined time limit or longer.

[0033] As described above, according to the disclosure of the present invention, if the determination unit determines that the device is in a moving state and this state continues for a preset time limit or longer, the control unit recognizes this as an abnormality and causes the notification means to issue a warning notification, making it easier for the user to pay attention to the abnormal state. This makes it easier for the user to recognize the abnormality through the notification and take some kind of action, thus enabling the device to be used safely.

[0034] Furthermore, the beauty device disclosed in the present invention may, if necessary, have the control unit automatically or manually turn off the power and then switch to the power-on state. If the determination unit determines that the device has been in a moving state for a predetermined time limit or longer at the time of the power-off state, and that it is still in a moving state after switching to the power-on state, then the power output will be reduced or stopped, and the device will automatically switch to the power-off state after a predetermined time has elapsed.

[0035] As described above, according to the disclosure of the present invention, if the control unit automatically switches the device from a usage state to a power-off state, or if the device is turned on after being turned off by the user, and the determination unit determines that the electrode unit is still in a moving state as it was at the time of the power-off, the control unit suppresses the power supply and then ultimately switches the device to a power-off state. This allows the user to strongly recognize the abnormality due to the forced switch to the power-off state of the device and take some kind of action, thereby enabling the safe use of the device. Furthermore, even if the electrode unit is accidentally subjected to power equivalent to movement while stationary before the device is automatically switched to the power-off state, safety is ensured by suppressing the power supply, and the user does not experience any discomfort due to the power supply.

[0036] Furthermore, the beauty device disclosed in the present invention may optionally include a contact sensor capable of detecting whether or not the electrode portion is in contact with the skin, and a contact determination unit that determines whether or not the electrode portion is in contact with the skin from the output of the contact sensor. When the control unit obtains a transition from a state in which the electrode portion is determined to be in contact with the skin to a state in which it is determined not to be in contact, it stops timing the elapsed time since the start of energization and stops the energization output. When the control unit obtains a new transition from a state in which the electrode portion is determined not to be in contact with the skin to a state in which it is determined to be in contact, and also obtains the movement state of the electrode portion, it restarts energization to the electrode portion and timing.

[0037] As described above, according to the disclosure of the present invention, a contact sensor detects whether or not the electrode part is in contact with the skin, and based on the sensor output, a contact determination unit determines whether or not the electrode part is in contact with the skin. When the unit obtains a transition from the determination that the electrode part is in contact with the skin to the determination that it is not in contact, the control unit stops the power supply along with the time since the start of power supply. Then, when the control unit obtains a new transition from the determination that the electrode part is not in contact with the skin to the determination that it is in contact, and when it obtains the movement state of the electrode part, it newly starts power supply to the electrode part and timing, and by performing power supply continuously for at least the duration, power supply is not performed when the electrode part is not in contact with the skin, while power supply can be newly performed for the duration each time the electrode part is moved into contact with the skin, thereby enabling power supply to be performed continuously for the maximum possible time within a safe range, and the effect of power supply can be efficiently applied.

[0038] Furthermore, the beauty apparatus disclosed in the present invention may optionally include a three-axis acceleration sensor capable of detecting accelerations in three orthogonal directions, and is arranged to detect accelerations in the direction normal to the contact surface of the electrode with the skin, and the control unit increases the power output to the electrode when the determination unit determines that the electrode is in a moving state, based on the acceleration in the direction parallel to the contact surface of the electrode with the skin exceeding a predetermined reference value, and the acceleration in the direction normal to the contact surface of the electrode with the skin also exceeding a predetermined reference value.

[0039] As described above, according to the disclosure of the present invention, a three-axis acceleration sensor as a movement detection means detects the acceleration in the direction normal to the contact surface of the electrode with the skin and the acceleration in the direction parallel to the contact surface of the electrode with the skin. When the determination unit determines that the electrode is in a moving state because the acceleration in the direction parallel to the contact surface of the electrode with the skin exceeds a predetermined reference value, and the acceleration in the direction normal to the contact surface of the electrode with the skin also exceeds a predetermined reference value, the control unit increases the power output to the electrode to strengthen the effect on the skin due to the current. In situations where the detected acceleration causes frequent movement of the electrode along the skin and movement towards and away from the skin, the increased output can compensate for the relatively weakened effect of the current on various parts of the skin due to such frequent movement, thereby efficiently applying the effect of the current while ensuring safety.

[0040] Furthermore, the beauty apparatus disclosed in the present invention may, if necessary, enable the control unit to supply a radio frequency band of current between the electrode units, and increase the current supply to the electrode units for a predetermined period of time immediately after the current is supplied in conjunction with the acquisition of the movement state of the electrode units.

[0041] Thus, according to the disclosure of the present invention, by increasing the current output for a predetermined time immediately after the start of current application in the radio wave band following the acquisition of the movement state of the electrode in the control unit, and thereby strengthening the heating effect on the skin due to the current, the skin temperature can be rapidly increased in the initial stage of current application, and heat can be efficiently applied in a short time to improve the effect of thermal stimulation. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0042] [Figure 1] This is a front view of a beauty device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This is a rear view of a beauty device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] This is a plan view of a beauty device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] Figure 3 is an enlarged view of the main section of cross-section AA. [Figure 5] This is a right side view of a beauty device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] This is a block diagram of a beauty device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] This is an explanatory diagram of the control state in a beauty device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] This is a detailed diagram illustrating the control state in a beauty device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the movement and determination state of the determination unit in a beauty device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the concept of adjusting the duty cycle by changing the switching control of the power output in a beauty device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the change in duration after the first limit time has elapsed in a beauty device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] This is a detailed explanatory diagram of the state of change in duration after the first limit time has elapsed in a beauty device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] This diagram illustrates the adjustment of the power supply output based on the detected value of a triaxial acceleration sensor and the duty cycle change state in the switching control related to said adjustment in a beauty device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] This diagram illustrates the power output and timing stop and restart states associated with changes in the contact detection state in a beauty device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15] This is a diagram illustrating another control state in a beauty device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 16] This diagram illustrates the adjustment of the energizing output after the first limit time has elapsed and the duty cycle change state in the switching control related to said adjustment in another beauty device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 17] This is an explanatory diagram of the control state in a beauty device according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 18] This is a diagram illustrating another control state in a beauty device according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 19]This is an explanatory diagram of the control state in a beauty device according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0043] Hereinafter, a beauty device according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described based on Figures 1 to 14. In the figures above, the beauty device 1 according to this embodiment comprises a main body 10 held by the user, a head 11 disposed on the main body 10 and capable of contacting the skin, two electrode parts 13 and 14 attached to the head 11 at predetermined intervals as stimulating parts, and a control unit 19 that controls the state of current flow to these electrode parts 13 and 14.

[0044] The main body 10 is formed as a hollow, substantially cylindrical body, with a head portion 11 disposed at one end, while the other end has a grip portion 10a of a predetermined thickness that allows the user to grasp the entire device by hand over a predetermined length during use. Inside the main body 10 are electrical circuits such as a control unit 19 and a battery (not shown) as a power source.

[0045] A part of the gripping portion 10a of the main body 10 is equipped with an operation unit 15 for switching the ON / OFF, type, and intensity of beauty-related operations in response to user input, and a display unit 16 as a notification means for displaying the operating status. On the other hand, an auxiliary electrode portion 10b made of a conductive material and connected to the control unit 19 is provided on the back side of the gripping portion 10a, so that when the user grips the gripping portion 10a with their hand, their hand comes into contact with the auxiliary electrode portion 10b. Depending on the treatment content, such as iontophoresis described later, this auxiliary electrode portion 10b can also function as a type of stimulating unit. Alternatively, instead of providing the auxiliary electrode portion 10b, the gripping portion 10a of the main body 10 can be made of a conductor and electrically connected to the control unit 19 so that it can be used as a type of electrode.

[0046] The control unit 15 is equipped with a power switch 15a and a mode selector switch 15b for switching between operating modes. The display unit 16 is located on the surface of the main body at a certain point on the control unit 15 and changes its illumination state according to the intensity of the power output.

[0047] The head portion 11 and the main body portion 10 in its vicinity can also be structured to hold a porous covering (not shown) such as a cotton puff along the head portion 11 as needed, such as when performing iontophoresis.

[0048] Furthermore, an acceleration sensor 17 is provided inside the main body 10 as a movement detection means, which detects the movement of electrode parts 13 and 14 that move together with the main body 10 by detecting the acceleration that changes due to the movement of the main body 10.

[0049] The acceleration sensor 17 is a known three-axis acceleration sensor capable of detecting acceleration in three orthogonal directions, and is configured to detect acceleration in directions parallel to the contact surfaces of the electrodes 13 and 14 with the skin (X-axis direction and Y-axis direction), and acceleration in the direction normal to the contact surfaces of the electrodes 13 and 14 with the skin (Z-axis direction).

[0050] The head portion 11 comprises a cover portion 11a attached to one end of the main body portion 10 with the electrode portions 13 and 14 partially exposed, a base portion 11b attached to the main body portion 10 to support the electrode portions 13 and 14 from within the main body portion 10, a packing 11c disposed between the electrode portions 13 and 14 and the base portion 11b, and a contact sensor 18 capable of detecting whether or not the electrode portions 13 and 14 are in contact with the skin.

[0051] The cover portion 11a is made of an insulating material such as resin and is provided with openings 11d corresponding to the electrode portions 13 and 14. The openings 11d are through holes that are slightly larger than the outer dimensions of each electrode portion.

[0052] The base portion 11b is made of an insulating material such as resin, and is formed in a shape in which a columnar portion that supports each electrode portion 13, 14 from the back protrudes from a plate-shaped portion that is attached to the main body portion 10. A conductor connected to the control unit 19 and extending from inside the main body 10 passes through the base 11b and is electrically connected to the electrode parts 13 and 14.

[0053] The packing 11c is made of a soft material such as rubber that is more elastically deformable than the cover portion 11a and the base portion 11b, and is arranged to be interposed between the cover portion 11a and the electrode portions 13 and 14 and the base portion 11b.

[0054] When the cover portion 11a is attached, the packing 11c is sandwiched between the base portion 11b and the main body portion 10 and the cover portion 11a, and subjected to compressive force. The surface of the packing is in close contact with the base portion 11b and the main body portion 10 and the cover portion 11a, and the electrode portions 13 and 14, sealing the space between the cover portion 11a and the base portion 11b, and between the cover portion 11a and the main body portion 10, thereby preventing moisture such as sweat and lotion, as well as foreign matter, from entering the interior.

[0055] The contact sensor 18 is connected to the control unit 19 inside the main body 10 and is positioned at a predetermined location on the head unit 11 to detect whether or not the electrodes 13 and 14 are in contact with the skin. A known capacitive proximity sensor or the like can be used as the contact sensor 18. In addition to providing a contact sensor, the presence or absence of contact may also be detected by taking advantage of the fact that the current flowing through the electrodes changes significantly before and after contact with the skin, and observing the change in the current value of the electrodes.

[0056] The electrode portions 13 and 14 are made of a conductive material such as metal, have a roughly C-shaped curve, are arranged opposite each other symmetrically with respect to the center of the cover portion 11a, and are positioned so as to protrude slightly from the surface of the cover portion 11a so as to be able to make surface contact with the skin. In addition to being formed from a conductor such as metal, the electrode portions 13 and 14 can also be formed by fixing a conductive sheet or thin film made of metal or the like to the surface of an insulating material such as plastic.

[0057] The electrode sections 13 and 14 are electrically connected to the control unit 19 within the main body 10, and when in contact with the skin, the control unit 19 can create an electrical current flow between the electrode sections 13 and 14 through the skin.

[0058] When current is passed through the skin between these electrode parts 13 and 14, the high-frequency current flowing through the skin generates heat, warming the skin and raising its temperature, thereby providing thermal stimulation to the skin.

[0059] Furthermore, the electrode sections 13 and 14 can conduct electricity through the user's body between them and the auxiliary electrode section 10b located on the gripping section 10a. When electricity is conducted between the electrode sections 13 and 14 and the auxiliary electrode section 10b, iontophoresis (ion introduction) can be performed, in which ionic active ingredients are introduced into the skin by ion movement based on the conduction of electricity, or conversely, cleansing (ion extraction) can be performed, in which charged waste products and other dirt components are moved from the skin side to the electrode section 13 and 14 side by the conduction of electricity.

[0060] When performing electrical current application (iontophoresis, etc.) to the skin using electrode sections 13, 14 and auxiliary electrode section 10a, the user holds the gripping section 10a and brings the auxiliary electrode section 10b into contact with the user's palm or fingers, and the control unit 19 applies a voltage between electrode sections 13, 14 and auxiliary electrode section 10b to create a state where current can be applied. Then, the user brings the head section 11 into contact with the skin, such as the face, either directly or through a porous covering impregnated with a liquid such as lotion containing electrolyte components. This allows the electrode sections 13, 14 and auxiliary electrode section 10b to be electrically connected via the user's body, resulting in current being applied to the skin in contact with electrode sections 13, 14.

[0061] When current is applied to the skin in contact with these electrodes 13 and 14, iontophoresis can be performed to introduce ionic active ingredients contained in a liquid such as lotion that has been previously applied to the skin surface or impregnated into a porous coating into the skin through ion movement based on the current from the control unit 19. Furthermore, as a skin cleansing (ion export) function, charged waste products and other dirt components can be transferred from the skin side to the electrodes 13 and 14 side by applying current, and then incorporated into the porous coating held on the surface of the head unit. These iontophoresis and cleansing methods themselves are well known, so a detailed explanation will be omitted.

[0062] In addition, when applying current for ion introduction or the like, the use of the two electrode sections 13 and 14 in the head section 11 is not mandatory. Current can be applied between either one of the electrode sections and the auxiliary electrode section 10b, that is, between the pair of electrode sections 13 and the auxiliary electrode section 10b, or between the pair of electrode sections 14 and the auxiliary electrode section 10b.

[0063] The control unit 19 is built into the main unit 10 and receives input operations from the user to the operation unit 15, acquires state changes based on sensor outputs, etc., and controls the current flow between the pair of electrode units 13 and 14, thereby adjusting the current flow to the skin. However, the high-frequency current flowing between the electrode units 13 and 14 is output from the high-frequency output unit 20, and the control unit 19 controls the current flow to the electrode units 13 and 14 through the high-frequency output unit 20.

[0064] The control unit 19 sets the operating mode for each part according to the beauty application. In this embodiment, there are three modes: a thermal mode that warms and activates the skin; an ion introduction mode that penetrates ionic active ingredients such as lotions deep into the skin to enhance moisture; and a cleansing mode that removes harmful components and waste products accumulated in the skin.

[0065] In the above operating modes, the thermal mode is energized between the pair of electrode sections 13 and 14. In the ion introduction mode and the cleansing mode, at least one of the electrode section 13 and the electrode section 14 is paired with the auxiliary electrode section 10b, and the control unit 19 energizes between these electrode sections and the auxiliary electrode section 10b.

[0066] The control unit 19 switches the operating mode based on the user's input to the mode selector switch 15b on the operation unit 15. When the user operates the mode selector switch 15b, the control unit 19 switches between the thermal mode, ion introduction mode, and cleansing mode, and controls the system to make one of the modes available for execution.

[0067] Furthermore, the control unit 15 may also be provided with a switch for switching the strength of the current, so that when the control unit 19 energizes the electrode sections 13 and 14, or the electrode sections 13 and 14 and the auxiliary electrode section 10b, in accordance with each operating mode selected by the control unit 15, it can receive the operation of this strength-switching switch and adjust and control the strength of the current flowing through the user's skin due to the current. In this case, it is desirable that the control unit 19 be able to switch the strength of the current in multiple stages in response to the user's input operation to the strength-switching switch.

[0068] Furthermore, the control unit 19 includes a determination unit 19a that determines whether or not the electrode units 13 and 14 are in a moving state based on the output of the acceleration sensor 17, and a contact determination unit 19b that determines whether or not the electrode units 13 and 14 are in contact with the skin based on the output of the contact sensor 18.

[0069] The determination unit 19a receives the output of the acceleration sensor 17 and determines that the electrodes 13 and 14 are in a moving state if the sensor output value (acceleration) satisfies a preset condition (H output; see Figure 7). On the other hand, if the condition is not met, it determines that the electrodes are not in a moving state (L output; see Figure 7).

[0070] More specifically, the determination unit 19a determines that the vehicle is in motion if the relationship between the obtained acceleration and a preset reference value satisfies a predetermined condition, for example, the frequency (number of times) or percentage (the ratio of the time during which the acceleration value exceeds the reference value to the total time for which the determination is made) of the acceleration exceeding the preset reference value within a predetermined determination target time (for example, 0.5 seconds), and this ratio exceeds a set lower limit. Conversely, if the relationship with the reference value does not satisfy the above condition, the determination unit 19a determines that the vehicle is not in motion (see Figure 9).

[0071] If the movement detection means is an acceleration sensor 17, even if there is no relative movement of the head unit 11 with respect to the skin, if the skin is moving, the head unit 11 and electrode units 13 and 14 that are in contact with it will also move, and a sensor output corresponding to this movement may be generated. However, since such movements are generally small, if the determination unit 19a sets an appropriate reference value and does not determine it as movement, it is possible to prevent situations in which power is applied even when the device is essentially stationary.

[0072] The contact determination unit 19b makes a determination according to the output of the contact sensor 18, for example, if the contact sensor 18 outputs an output indicating that contact is present, it determines that the electrodes 13 and 14 are in contact with the skin.

[0073] The control unit 19 obtains the movement state of the electrode units 13 and 14 from the determination result of the determination unit 19a. The control unit 19 is capable of performing various controls in response to the movement state, such as switching the energization state of the electrode units 13, 14 and the auxiliary electrode unit 10b between normal energization and a state where the energization output is reduced or stopped, increasing or decreasing the energization output to the electrode units 13, 14 and the auxiliary electrode unit 10b, and causing the display unit 16 (notification means) to provide a predetermined notification. In addition, the control unit 19 also has a function to determine that the determination unit 19a is in an abnormal state and execute predetermined control if the determination unit 19a continues to make movement determinations.

[0074] Furthermore, the control unit 19 starts timing using a timer function in conjunction with power-on or predetermined operation start, and when the elapsed time reaches a predetermined time set in advance, it becomes capable of executing predetermined control. For example, the control unit 19 starts timing when current is supplied between the electrode units 13 and 14 or between the electrode units 13 and 14 and the auxiliary electrode unit 10b. After a predetermined duration (for example, 5 seconds) has elapsed, it controls the system to reduce or stop the current output. This control to reduce or stop the current output after the duration has elapsed is performed for a predetermined output reduction time, and the control is managed by timing, similar to the duration. If the determination unit 19a continuously determines that the movement state of the electrodes 13 and 14 is within a normal range based on their movement, the control unit 19, according to a predetermined control program, repeatedly performs a control that supplies current for a duration T1 while the movement state is continuous, and then reduces or stops the current output during the output reduction time T2. In other words, while the determination unit 19a continuously determines the movement state, the current state and the subsequent state of reduced or stopped current output are periodically repeated, with a duration T1 and the subsequent output reduction time T2 forming one cycle (see Figure 8). Furthermore, the control unit 19 can also adjust the duration and other timeframes used as a guideline for executing control when timing, in accordance with the movement state, etc.

[0075] In addition, the control unit 19 can acquire the contact state of the electrodes 13 and 14 with the skin from the judgment result of the contact determination unit 19b. Then, in response to this acquired contact state, the control unit 19 switches the energization state of the electrodes 13 and 14 and the auxiliary electrode 10b between normal energization and a state where the energization output is reduced or stopped, increases or decreases the energization output to the electrodes 13 and 14 and the auxiliary electrode 10b, or stops or restarts the timer function.

[0076] Next, the operating state of the beauty device according to this embodiment will be described. As a prerequisite, it is assumed that the user is holding the gripping part 10a of the beauty device 1 and is in a state where the head part 11 is directed towards the area of ​​skin to be treated. Furthermore, it is assumed that the power supply unit (battery) of the beauty device 1 has sufficient capacity and that once a mode is selected using the switches on the operation unit 15, the operation of each mode can be continued without difficulty until the end of a predetermined period.

[0077] When applying heat to the skin, the user ensures that the electrodes 13 and 14 of the head unit 11 are in contact with the skin. At the same time, the user applies and allows a beauty liquid such as lotion, cream, or toner to the skin to be treated, such as the cheeks or forehead of the face.

[0078] When the user operates the power switch 15a on the control unit 15 to turn on the power, and then operates the mode selector switch 15b to select the heating mode, the control unit 19 enables the start of an energizing state in which radio waves (RF), for example, a sinusoidal alternating current with a frequency of 1 MHz, are passed between the pair of electrode units 13 and 14. However, when the electrode units 13 and 14 are separated from the skin, there is no energizing state because the electrode units 13 and 14 are not in a closed circuit via the skin. The control unit 19 also starts the display unit 16 to light up in a state corresponding to the set intensity of the energizing output.

[0079] When the electrodes 13 and 14 are brought into contact with the skin, an electric current is generated between the electrodes 13 and 14 through the skin. The high-frequency current flowing through the skin generates heat, warming the skin and raising its temperature, thereby providing a thermal stimulus to the skin.

[0080] Furthermore, warming the skin promotes blood circulation and metabolism, and the skin becomes more receptive to the penetration of active ingredients in lotions and creams. As a result, these various active ingredients penetrate the skin smoothly and effectively, providing cosmetic benefits.

[0081] By moving the electrode parts 13 and 14 little by little on the skin while keeping them in contact with the skin, the target location for current application can be changed. For example, the user can apply thermal stimulation by applying current to different parts of the skin, such as the cheeks or forehead, by sliding the head part 11 with the electrode parts 13 and 14 along the skin surface.

[0082] If the electrodes 13 and 14 remain in contact with the skin for an extended period, the control unit 19 reduces or stops the power supply output to prevent overheating of the skin, effectively halting the application of thermal stimulation through electrical current. In addition, the application of thermal stimulation through electrical current also stops if the electrodes 13 and 14 are removed from the skin or if a predetermined time for automatic shutdown has elapsed.

[0083] To end the application of electricity to the skin, the user can switch to another operating mode by operating the mode selector switch 15b on the control unit 15, or switch to the power OFF state by operating the power switch 15a. This will stop the current flow between the electrode units 13 and 14, and the application of heat to the skin will also end. The output level at the time of power OFF can be recorded and stored in the control unit 19 so that the same output level can be used for the next application of electricity to the skin.

[0084] In addition, when performing cleansing or iontophoresis on the skin, the user first positions the head unit 11, which has electrodes 13 and 14, in front of the skin, so that the head unit 11 can be brought into contact with the skin. Then, in the case of cleansing, a cleansing lotion or the like containing electrolyte components is applied directly to the skin, and in the case of iontophoresis, a protective lotion or the like containing electrolyte components is applied directly to the skin, or soaked into a porous covering such as a cotton puff, and the porous covering is held on the head unit 11.

[0085] When the user operates the mode selector switch 15b on the control unit 15 to select either cleansing mode or ion introduction mode, the control unit 19 enables the start of an energizing state in which a weak current is passed between the electrode sections 13 and 14 of the head unit 11 and the auxiliary electrode section 10b. However, when the head unit 11 is separated from the skin, there is no energizing state because the electrode sections 13 and 14 and the auxiliary electrode section 10b do not form a closed circuit through the body.

[0086] When the user moves the beauty device 10 they are holding and brings the head portion 11 into contact with their skin directly or via the porous coating, the electrode portions 13 and 14 and the auxiliary electrode portion 10b become electrically conductive with the user's body and the lotion that has been previously applied to the skin surface or impregnated into the porous coating. In the case of cleansing, charged fine dirt components on the skin surface and inside the skin are transferred from the skin side to the porous coating side, thereby removing dirt from the skin. In the case of iontophoresis, ionic active ingredients in the lotion are transferred to the skin side, allowing the active ingredients to penetrate into the skin.

[0087] By moving the electrode sections 13 and 14 slightly across the skin while keeping them in contact, the target position for cleansing or iontophoresis can be changed while the device remains energized. However, the energization is immediately interrupted when the electrode sections 13 and 14 are removed from the skin. To completely finish cleansing or iontophoresis, the user should switch to another operating mode by operating the mode selector switch 15b on the control unit 15, or switch to the power OFF state by operating the power switch 15a. In addition, the control unit 19 may be configured to stop the energization after a pre-set time for cleansing or iontophoresis has elapsed. After the completion of these modes, it is desirable for the user to remove the porous coating from the head unit 11 if one was used, clean the surface of the head unit 11 including the electrode sections 13 and 14, and prepare it for the next use.

[0088] Next, we will explain in more detail the control of the control unit related to the energization. Note that when linear control is employed, the output voltage (current) is increased or decreased, while when switching control such as PWM control or VFM control is employed, the duty cycle at the output is increased or decreased.

[0089] The control unit 19, upon power-on, starts timing the usage time using a timer function to acquire the cumulative time for all periods of power-on. In this case, the cumulative time acquired is the total usage time of the device from power-on.

[0090] After the power is turned on, the determination unit 19a determines the movement state based on the output of the acceleration sensor 17, and the contact determination unit 19b determines the contact of the electrode units 13 and 14 with the skin based on the output of the contact sensor 18. Once the control unit 19 obtains the movement state and the contact state, it starts supplying power between the electrode units 13 and 14, or between the electrode units 13 and 14 and the auxiliary electrode unit 10b.

[0091] Furthermore, the control unit 19 starts timing the energization period using a timer function when energization begins between the electrode units 13 and 14, or between the electrode units 13 and 14 and the auxiliary electrode unit 10b. The timing of the start of timing by the control unit 19 in conjunction with the start of energization is not limited to being exactly simultaneous with the start of energization, but may be slightly staggered before or after the start of energization.

[0092] In addition, the control unit 19 temporarily increases the power output to the electrode section for a predetermined period from the start of power supply, which is called the power supply start period (see Figures 7 to 9). This power supply start period is not limited to the start of power supply based on the initial movement determination, but is also set when power supply is started again based on a movement determination after the power supply output has been temporarily reduced. By increasing the power supply output in this way during the power supply start period, especially in the thermal mode, the degree of heat generation due to power supply can be increased, the temperature rise rate can be increased, and thermal stimulation can be applied efficiently. After the power supply start period has passed, the control unit 19 returns to a normal power supply state with a predetermined output that is smaller than the power supply start period output. Alternatively, instead of temporarily increasing the power supply output to the second output H2 during the power supply start period, it is also acceptable to set the normal power supply state to the first output H1, which is smaller than the second output H2, from the beginning of power supply.

[0093] The control unit 19 continues to supply power until a predetermined duration (for example, 5 seconds) has elapsed, based on the time taken from the start of power supply, unless the contact state described later changes (see Figures 7 and 9). The duration is set to a length that ensures safety by preventing unpleasant irritation such as skin overheating even when power is continuously supplied to the same area, and no problems will occur even if the electrodes 13 and 14 remain in a non-contact state with respect to the skin.

[0094] On the other hand, the control unit 19, based on the time taken from the start of power supply, reduces the power output once the aforementioned duration (for example, 5 seconds) has elapsed (see Figures 7 and 9). More specifically, while continuing to acquire the elapsed time through timing, the control unit 19 reduces the power output for a predetermined output reduction time T2 (for example, 1 second) after the duration T1 has elapsed (see Figure 8). Then, the determination unit 19a acquires the determination result of the movement state based on the output from the acceleration sensor 17.

[0095] If the control unit 19 obtains the determination result of the determination unit 19a that the electrodes 13 and 14 are in a moving state, it returns to the same energized state as when the power was first applied. On the other hand, if the determination unit 19a does not obtain the determination result that the electrodes are in a moving state, the control unit 19 continues to reduce the power output until the determination unit 19a obtains the moving state again (see Figures 7 and 9). Then, based on the previous determination that the electrodes are not in a moving state, if the power output remains reduced even after the output reduction period has ended, and the determination unit 19a newly determines that the electrodes 13 and 14 are in a moving state, the control unit 19 immediately returns to the same energized state as when the power was first applied. Needless to say, in each of the above cases, when the power is returned to the energized state, a new timer is also started, just as when the power was first applied. Furthermore, even if the electrodes 13 and 14 remain stationary during the aforementioned duration and the determination unit 19a no longer determines that they are in a moving state, the control operations for the intermediate duration T1 and the subsequent output reduction time T2, i.e., the control operations for the entire cycle, will continue to be executed. If, after the output reduction time T2 has elapsed, the determination result does not meet the conditions for proceeding to the next cycle of control, the current output will remain reduced (see Figure 8). On the other hand, if, after the output reduction time T2 has elapsed, the electrode sections 13 and 14 resume movement, and a determination is made that they are in a moving state, and the conditions for proceeding to the next cycle of control are met, the control unit 19 returns to the same energized state as at the start of the initial energization, and a new cycle of control is executed again.

[0096] In addition, if the user continuously moves the device, the determination unit 19a repeatedly determines that the electrode units 13 and 14 are in a moving state. At each timing of the cycle after the duration T1 and output reduction time T2 have elapsed since the previous determination by the determination unit 19a, the device is similarly determined to be in a moving state. Based on the determination result, the control unit 19 periodically repeats the process of applying the same power supply during the duration T1 as at the start of the initial power supply, and then reducing the power supply output during the output reduction time T2 (see Figure 8).

[0097] In this manner, if the user continuously moves the device and the determination unit 19a determines the movement state each time the aforementioned duration elapses from the start of power application, the power application state is repeated. However, when the control unit 19 measures the total usage time and a preset first limit time (for example, 1 minute 30 seconds) has elapsed, the aforementioned duration, which is used as a guideline for the power application timing, is changed to a shorter time (for example, 4 seconds) (see Figures 11 and 12). As described above, this duration is set to a safe length so that unpleasant irritation such as skin overheating does not occur even when power is continuously applied to the same area. By shortening this duration over time, especially in the heating mode, it is possible to ensure an even safer state where overheating is less likely to occur even on skin that has been sufficiently warmed by continuous power application, and adverse effects can be prevented even if the electrode parts 13 and 14 remain stationary against the skin for this duration. 1' The output reduction time after the first limit time should ideally remain the same as before, and even if the energization is repeated beyond the first limit time, safety can be ensured by providing sufficient time between such energizations to reduce the output (see Figure 12).

[0098] Then, when the total usage time measured by the control unit 19 has elapsed, a preset second limit time (for example, 3 minutes), the control unit 19 automatically stops the power supply and transitions to the power-off state.

[0099] In addition, while the control unit 19 simplifies the timing process by omitting interruptions and restarts of timing corresponding to increases and decreases in power output, the control unit 19 calculates the total usage time as the timing for acquiring the cumulative power supply time until the second limit time elapses, or until the first limit time elapses, when the control unit 19 changes the duration to a shorter time, instead, it is also possible to configure the system to calculate the total effective power supply time, which does not include periods when the power supply output was reduced or stopped, by accumulating the time during which power is supplied to the electrode section at a predetermined output since the initial power supply started, and acquire this as the cumulative time. In this case, when the control unit performs control, it can make execution decisions using the total net power supply time during which power is actually supplied to stimulate the skin, thereby more accurately evaluating the degree of burden on the skin due to power supply and executing power supply control such as time limits and output adjustments, and reducing the burden on the skin at an appropriate timing when the usage time is prolonged.

[0100] As the user continuously moves the device while keeping the electrodes 13 and 14 in contact with their skin, the determination unit 19a determines from the output of the acceleration sensor 17 that the acceleration of the electrodes 13 and 14 in the direction parallel to the skin contact surface satisfies a predetermined condition (for example, the frequency or percentage of the acceleration exceeding a standard value within a predetermined determination target time exceeds a set value), and that the acceleration of the electrodes 13 and 14 in the direction normal to the skin contact surface also satisfies a predetermined condition, and that the electrodes 13 and 14 are in a moving state, the control unit 19 increases the power output to the electrodes 13 and 14, or increases the power output to the electrodes 13 and 14 and the auxiliary electrode unit 10b (see Figure 13). In particular, in the thermal mode, even if the movement of the electrodes 13 and 14 relative to the skin is large and heat is easily dispersed, increasing the power output makes it easier for heat to be generated in the skin, thereby efficiently warming the skin.

[0101] Furthermore, while energizing, if the control unit 19 detects a transition from a state in which the electrodes 13 and 14 are in contact with the skin to a state in which they are not in contact, it stops timing the elapsed time since the start of energizing and stops the energizing output. Subsequently, if the contact detection unit 19b newly detects a transition from a state in which the electrodes 13 and 14 are not in contact with the skin to a state in which they are in contact, and if the determination unit 19a determines the movement state of the electrodes 13 and 14, the control unit 19 newly starts energizing and timing between the electrodes 13 and 14, or between the electrodes 13 and 14 and the auxiliary electrode 10b (see Figure 14).

[0102] While the electrodes 13 and 14 are not in contact with the skin, current is not properly supplied. In particular, in the heating mode, if timing and current supply are continued in this state, the effective current supply time and the amount of heat generated will be reduced. Therefore, timing and current supply are stopped when contact is lost, while timing and current supply are restarted after contact is made. This ensures safety during the new continuous current supply period and allows for efficient warming of the skin.

[0103] In addition, if the determination unit 19a determines that the electrode units 13 and 14 have been in a moving state for a predetermined time limit or longer without any intervening periods of stationary movement, the control unit 19 considers this to be an abnormal state of the determination unit 19a, reduces the power output, and causes the display unit 16, as a notification means, to display a predetermined warning about the abnormality of the determination unit 19a (for example, a different type of illumination or flashing than the normal output level display). This notification about the abnormality of the determination unit 19a is not limited to a display by the display unit 16, but may also be provided by other display means, such as displaying an image, or by other notification means separately provided, which may provide a predetermined sound, vibration, or other notification about the abnormality of the determination unit 19a.

[0104] Similarly, if the control unit 19 has determined that the electrode units 13 and 14 have been in a continuous moving state for longer than the aforementioned time limit without any stopping in between, and then the second limit time has elapsed in the total usage time measurement, or if the power is turned off due to user operation, the control unit 19 will perform control corresponding to the abnormal state.

[0105] In detail, when the power is turned ON from an OFF state, assuming that it was determined that the device was in a moving state for longer than the aforementioned time limit at the time of the previous power OFF state, if the determination unit 19a still determines that the electrode units 13 and 14 are in a moving state, the control unit 19 reduces the power output and automatically switches to the power OFF state after a predetermined time has elapsed.

[0106] The above-described controls related to current flow are applicable not only to current flow between electrode sections 13 and 14 during heat application, but also to current flow between at least one of electrode sections 13 and 14 and the auxiliary electrode section 10b during cleansing and ion introduction.

[0107] In cleansing and iontophoresis, the current flow between the electrode sections 13 and 14 and the auxiliary electrode section 10b is also controlled in the same way as the current flow between the electrode sections 13 and 14 in heat application. Except for the fact that the current is flowed as DC and the auxiliary electrode section 10b takes over the role of one of the paired electrodes, the control unit 19 determines the movement state and contact state, and in principle, the current is continuously flowed for the duration, while adjusting the current output according to the passage of time. However, when current is flowed with a weak current for cleansing or iontophoresis, rather than for the purpose of warming the skin with high-frequency current such as radio waves, the current can be controlled to gradually increase the output from a low output state (L) to the first output H1, rather than abruptly increasing to the first output H1 or second output H2 at the start of current flow, and then remain in a low output state during the output reduction time T2 after the duration T1 has elapsed. Furthermore, if the determination unit 19a continuously determines the movement state, during that time, control similar to that in the case of heat application may be performed, in which the energized state and the subsequent state in which the energized output is reduced or stopped are periodically repeated with a duration T1 and a subsequent output reduction time T2 as one cycle.

[0108] In the above-described controls related to energization, when the control unit 19 reduces the energization output to the electrode sections 13 and 14 and the auxiliary electrode section 10b, it reduces it to a predetermined low-output state (see Figures 7, 9, and 10). However, instead, the energization output may be reduced to an output of 0, that is, the energization output may be stopped.

[0109] As described above, the beauty device according to this embodiment is equipped with electrode sections 13 and 14 and an auxiliary electrode section 10b that are energized to provide stimulation to the skin as a stimulation-providing section for beauty purposes, and the control unit 19 controls the energization, timing the elapsed time from the start of energization and continuing to energize until at least the set duration has elapsed. Therefore, even if the device is moved in a manner that involves frequent movement and stopping, energization can be maintained for the duration of the set period, and the energization will not be interrupted and made in small increments in accordance with the switching from movement to stopping or vice versa. Instead, the device can be energized continuously and efficiently provided with stimulation.

[0110] Furthermore, even if the electrodes 13 and 14 are stopped while in contact with the skin during energization, if the duration used as a guideline for timing is set to at least within the continuous energization time that ensures skin safety, the control unit 19 will not be able to acquire the movement status of the electrodes 13 and 14 when they stop, and the energization that continues until the energization output is reduced or stopped will not exceed the duration. This allows for stimulation while maintaining a safe state for the skin, and it is possible to achieve both a state of continuous energization within a safe range and a state of reducing or stopping the energization output in response to the stopping of the electrodes 13 and 14. This prevents the user from experiencing discomfort due to electric current stimulation or excessive heat caused by the energization continuing even when the device is accidentally stopped.

[0111] In the beauty device according to the above embodiment, the head unit 11 is provided with two electrode units 13 and 14, and the control unit 19 is configured to conduct electricity through the skin between the pair of electrode units 13 and 14 in the thermal mode, and conduct electricity between at least one of the electrode units 13 and 14 and the auxiliary electrode unit 10b in the ion introduction mode, etc. However, the device is not limited to this configuration, and it is also possible to provide two or more electrode units on the head unit, and the control unit may conduct electricity between a pair of electrode units on the head unit, or between one or more electrode units on the head unit and the auxiliary electrode unit in the same manner as described above. Furthermore, if the thermal mode, which uses high-frequency current for conduction, is not adopted as a selectable function, the head unit may be provided with only one electrode unit, and it may be configured to conduct electricity between this electrode unit and a pair of auxiliary electrode units to perform ion introduction, etc.

[0112] Furthermore, in the beauty apparatus according to the above embodiment, the control unit 19 acquires the movement state and contact state and starts energizing and timing the energizing. After a predetermined duration has elapsed, it transitions to an output reduction period in which the energizing output is temporarily reduced. After this output reduction period has elapsed, the determination unit 19a acquires the determination result of the movement state of the electrode units 13 and 14. However, the configuration is not limited to this. As shown in Figure 15, after the start of timing, when another duration equivalent to the sum of the duration T1 and the output reduction period T2 (T1+T2) has elapsed, the device attempts to acquire the movement state of the electrode units based on the determination result of the determination unit. If a movement state is acquired, the energizing is continued. If a movement state cannot be acquired, the energizing output is reduced or stopped, and this reduced or stopped state of the energizing output is continued until a new movement state is acquired. In this case, while ensuring safety regarding the application of current when the electrode is stationary and not moving, at the point corresponding to the elapsed duration, the application of current does not cause a decrease in the current output when the electrode is in a moving state, and stimulation by current is continued, thereby efficiently obtaining the beauty effect.

[0113] Furthermore, in the beauty device according to the above embodiment, when the first limit time elapses in the total usage time, which is the cumulative time of all energization in the control unit 19, the control unit 19 is configured to change the duration T1 to a shorter time while maintaining the output reduction time T2 at the same time as before. However, the configuration is not limited to this, and when the first limit time elapses in the time measurement, at least when the device is energized, the duration T1 is maintained at the same length while the output reduction time T2 is changed to a longer time than before. In this configuration, as in the above embodiment, even if energization is repeated beyond the first limit time, safety can be ensured by providing a sufficient period of time to reduce the energization output between such energizations.

[0114] Furthermore, in the beauty device according to the above embodiment, when the control unit 19 measures the total usage time, which is the cumulative time of all energization, and a preset first limit time has elapsed, the control unit 19 is configured to change the duration, which is used as a guideline for the timing of energization, to a shorter time. However, it is not limited to this configuration, and as shown in Figure 16, when the first limit time has elapsed in the timing, the control unit 19 can be configured to reduce the energization output, at least if the device is still energized. In this case as well, similar to the above, by reducing the output and applying energization to skin that has been sufficiently warmed by the continued energization up to that point in the heating mode, after the limit time has elapsed, it is possible to ensure an even safer state in which skin overheating is less likely to occur, and adverse effects can be prevented even if the electrode parts 13 and 14 remain stopped for the duration of the aforementioned period. Furthermore, if the control unit 19 is configured to apply the minimum necessary amount of energization even when the energization output is reduced in the case where the movement state cannot be acquired, power consumption can be reduced by further reducing the energization output after the first limit time has elapsed.

[0115] Furthermore, in the beauty apparatus according to the above embodiment, when the control unit 19 acquires that the electrode units 13 and 14 are in a moving state, an acceleration sensor is used as a movement detection means in conjunction with the determination unit 19a. However, the apparatus is not limited to this, and other detection means can also be used, for example, a type that converts the displacement associated with movement relative to the skin into the rotational displacement of a ball or wheel rolling in contact with the skin, and acquires this with a rotary encoder to detect the movement state relative to the skin.

[0116] In this case, if the determination unit determines that a movement state is occurring when the value of the movement speed (distance traveled per unit time) detected by the detection means exceeds a reference value, then, as in the above embodiment, the determination unit will not determine that a movement state is occurring if the electrode part moves only slightly, thereby avoiding continuous energization in a state of near-complete cessation where the electrode part hardly moves, and improving safety.

[0117] Furthermore, in the beauty device according to the above embodiment, the display unit 16 as a notification means is configured to display the intensity of the current output or to display a warning. However, in addition, such notification means may be configured to provide the user with notifications (display or audio output) regarding the status of the device as needed, such as when starting current flow and timing between the electrode parts, when the duration has elapsed since the start of current flow, or when the second limit time (maximum usage time) is reached and the power is automatically turned off.

[0118] Furthermore, in the beauty device according to the above embodiment, the device is configured to provide thermal stimulation by applying an electric current to the skin using electrode sections 13, 14 and auxiliary electrode section 10b to generate heat and warm the skin, as a means of providing stimulation related to beauty. However, it is also possible to provide an ultrasonic generation mechanism using a piezoelectric element or the like within the head section, so that ultrasonic vibrations are transmitted to the electrode section, thereby enabling the application of ultrasonic vibration stimulation to the skin in place of, or simultaneously with, applying an electric current.

[0119] Furthermore, a predetermined vibration-applying unit can be provided in place of the electrode unit in the head section, and ultrasonic vibrations can be transmitted from the ultrasonic generation mechanism to this unit, thereby enabling the vibration-applying unit to exclusively stimulate the skin with ultrasonic vibrations. In this case, the current output control of the present invention can be applied by replacing it with ultrasonic vibration output control. Even if the device is moved in a manner that frequently alternates between movement and stopping on the skin, vibration can be applied for the duration of the movement. This prevents interruptions in vibration application and the application from becoming erratic as the device switches from movement to stopping or vice versa, allowing for continuous and efficient stimulation. In addition, it is possible to achieve both a state of continuous vibration stimulation and a state where the vibration output is reduced or stopped in response to the device stopping, preventing the vibration output from continuing unintentionally in a stopped state and causing discomfort to the user due to excessive vibration stimulation.

[0120] (Second embodiment of the present invention) In the beauty apparatus according to the first embodiment described above, the control unit 19 acquires the result of the determination of the movement state from the determination unit 19a again when the duration has elapsed since the start of energization based on the determination of the movement state by the determination unit 19a, and when the output reduction time has also elapsed. If it is determined that the device is in a movement state, the control unit 19 returns to the same energization state as when the initial energization was started. On the other hand, if it is determined that the device is not in a movement state, the device continues to reduce the energization output until it acquires a new movement state from the determination unit 19a. However, as shown in Figure 17, the control unit 19 can also be configured to acquire and refer to the result of the determination of the movement state from the determination unit 19a during the output reduction time in addition to the timing described above.

[0121] In this case, the determination unit 19a determines the movement state of the electrode units 13 and 14 during the output reduction time T2, and when the control unit 19 acquires this determination result, the control unit 19 can immediately return to the same energized state as when the initial energization started after the output reduction time has elapsed (see Figure 17). The timing of the return to the energized state here is, as a result, almost the same as in the first embodiment where the determination result of the movement state is acquired at the timing when the output reduction time has elapsed.

[0122] In addition, the determination unit 19a may newly determine the movement state of the electrode units 13 and 14 during the output reduction time T2, and when the control unit 19 obtains this determination result, the output reduction time may be terminated midway, and the system may return to the same energized state as when the initial energization was started (see Figure 18). When the system returns to the energized state at this point, a new timer is started in conjunction with the start of energization, just as when the initial energization was started. However, after the duration T1 has elapsed from the start of energization, the control unit 19 will again obtain the determination result of the movement state from the determination unit 19a during the output reduction time T2, as in the previous instance, and as a result, the repetition cycle of the duration and output reduction time may change with each repetition. In any of the above cases, if a determination result indicating that the device is in a moving state is not obtained during the output reduction time T2, the control unit 19 will continue to reduce or stop the power output until the determination unit 19a determines that the device is in a moving state, similar to the first embodiment.

[0123] In this embodiment, even if the electrode units 13 and 14, which were initially determined to be in a moving state by the determination unit 19a, are no longer determined to be in a moving state during the duration T1 in which the current is being supplied, the controls in the intermediate duration T1 and the subsequent output reduction time T2 are executed as before, similar to the first embodiment. On the other hand, if the determination unit 19a continuously determines the moving state based on the continued movement of the electrode units 13 and 14, the condition for proceeding to the next cycle of control is met based on the determination result in the output reduction time T2. Therefore, the control unit 19 can periodically repeat the current-supplying state and the subsequent state in which the current output is reduced or stopped, with the duration T1 and output reduction time T2 forming one cycle.

[0124] (Third embodiment of the present invention) In the beauty apparatus according to the first embodiment described above, the control unit 19 acquires the result of the determination of the movement state from the determination unit 19a again when the duration has elapsed since the start of power supply based on the determination of the movement state by the determination unit 19a, and the output reduction time has also elapsed, while not particularly utilizing the determination results at any other timing. In addition, as shown in Figure 19, the control unit 19 acquires the cumulative value (time) of the period during which the determination unit 19a determined that the device is in a movement state during the duration T1 and output reduction time T2, and this cumulative value is set to a predetermined reference time T S If this condition is exceeded, even if it is determined that the device is not in a moving state at the time the duration T1 and output reduction time T2 have elapsed, the device can be configured to generate a new energized state similar to that at the time of the initial energization.

[0125] In this case, the control unit 19 acquires the period during which the determination unit 19a newly determines the movement state of the electrode units 13 and 14 between the duration T1 and the output reduction time T2, calculates the cumulative value of this period, and the cumulative value is used to determine the reference time T SIf the duration exceeds (for example, 2 seconds), the control unit 19 will immediately return to the same powered state as when power was first applied, regardless of the determination result of the determination unit 19a, after the output reduction time has elapsed (see Figure 19). On the other hand, the cumulative value of the period during which the movement state was determined between the duration T1 and the output reduction time T2 is the reference time T S If the value is not met, the control unit 19 will maintain the reduced or stopped power output even after the output reduction time has elapsed, except when it is determined that the unit is in a moving state after the output reduction time has elapsed, and will continue this until the determination unit 19a determines the moving state again.

[0126] In this embodiment, even if the electrode units 13 and 14, which were initially determined to be in a moving state by the determination unit 19a, are no longer determined to be in a moving state during the duration T1 in which the current is being supplied, the controls during the intermediate duration T1 and the subsequent output reduction time T2 are executed as before, similar to the first embodiment. On the other hand, if the movement state is continuously determined by the determination unit 19a based on the continued movement of the electrode units 13 and 14, the cumulative value of the period during which the determination unit 19a determined the electrode units to be in a moving state during the duration T1 and output reduction time T2 is equal to the reference time T S Since the conditions for proceeding to the next cycle of control are met based on exceeding a certain threshold and the determination result after the output reduction time T2 has elapsed, the control unit 19 can periodically repeat the energized state and the subsequent state in which the energized output is reduced or stopped, with a duration of T1 and output reduction time T2 forming one cycle. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0127] 1 beauty equipment 10 Main body 10a Grip part 10b Auxiliary electrode part 11 Head section 11a Cover section 11b base 11c packing 11d opening 13, 14 Electrode part 15 Control section 15a Power Switch 15b Mode selector switch 16 Display section 17. Accelerometer 18. Contact Sensor 19 Control Unit 19a Judgment part 19b Contact determination section 20 High-frequency output section

Claims

1. A beauty device equipped with a stimulating unit capable of applying a predetermined stimuli related to beauty to the user's skin, Multiple electrode portions, which serve as stimulating portions, are formed from at least a conductive material and are arranged in a manner that allows them to come into contact with the user's skin. The electrode portion comprises a control unit that is electrically connected to the electrode portion and is capable of controlling at least the state of electrical current flow through the user's body between each electrode portion related to the application of stimulation, The control unit starts measuring the elapsed time from the start of energization at a predetermined output between each electrode section. After a predetermined duration has elapsed, it reduces or stops the energization output for a predetermined output reduction period. If the electrode section moves during the output reduction period, it returns to the energization state at the start of energization after the output reduction period has elapsed. If the movement state cannot be obtained, it continues to reduce or stop the energization output until a new movement state is obtained after the output reduction period has elapsed. A distinctive beauty device.

2. A beauty device comprising a stimulating unit capable of applying a predetermined stimuli related to beauty to the user's skin, Multiple electrode portions, which serve as stimulating portions, are formed from at least a conductive material and are arranged in a manner that allows them to come into contact with the user's skin. The electrode portion comprises a control unit that is electrically connected to the electrode portion and is capable of controlling at least the state of electrical current flow through the user's body between each electrode portion related to the application of stimulation, The control unit starts measuring the elapsed time from the start of energization at a predetermined output between each electrode section. After a predetermined duration has elapsed, it reduces or stops the energization output for a predetermined output reduction period of a set length. If the movement state of the electrode section is acquired during the output reduction period, the output reduction period is terminated and the unit immediately returns to the energization state at the start of energization. However, if the movement state cannot be acquired, the reduced or stopped energization output is maintained until a new movement state is acquired after the output reduction period has elapsed. A distinctive beauty device.

3. A beauty device comprising a stimulating unit capable of applying a predetermined stimuli related to beauty to the user's skin, Multiple electrode portions, which serve as stimulating portions, are formed from at least a conductive material and are arranged in a manner that allows them to come into contact with the user's skin. The electrode portion comprises a control unit that is electrically connected to the electrode portion and is capable of controlling at least the state of electrical current flow through the user's body between each electrode portion related to the application of stimulation, The control unit starts measuring the elapsed time from the start of energization at a predetermined output between each electrode section. After a predetermined duration has elapsed, it reduces or stops the energization output for a predetermined output reduction period of a predetermined length. It then acquires the cumulative value of the period during which the movement state of the electrode section can be acquired between the predetermined duration and the output reduction period. If this cumulative value is equal to or greater than a predetermined reference time, it returns to the energization state at the start of energization after the output reduction period has elapsed. On the other hand, if the cumulative value is less than the reference time, it continues the reduced or stopped energization output until a new movement state is acquired after the output reduction period has elapsed. A distinctive beauty device.

4. A beauty device comprising a stimulating unit capable of applying a predetermined stimuli related to beauty to the user's skin, Multiple electrode portions, which serve as stimulating portions, are formed from at least a conductive material and are arranged in a manner that allows them to come into contact with the user's skin. The electrode portion comprises a control unit that is electrically connected to the electrode portion and is capable of controlling at least the state of electrical current flow through the user's body between each electrode portion related to the application of stimulation, The control unit starts measuring the elapsed time since the start of energization at a predetermined output when it starts energizing each electrode section. After a predetermined period of time has elapsed, it temporarily reduces or stops the energization output. If it obtains a movement status of the electrode section, it returns to the state of energization at the predetermined output. If it cannot obtain a movement status, it continues the reduced or stopped state of energization until a movement status is obtained. Alternatively, if it obtains a movement status of the electrode section after the elapsed time since the start of energization has elapsed, it continues the state of energization at the predetermined output. If it cannot obtain a movement status, it reduces or stops the energization output and continues the reduced or stopped state of energization until a movement status is obtained. The control unit acquires the cumulative time for all energization of the electrode section, and if the cumulative time exceeds a predetermined limit time, it changes the duration to a smaller value. A distinctive beauty device.

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