Hair care device

Abstract

A hair dryer (1) as a hair care device includes a heat-imparting section (30) that imparts heat to hair of a user, a component-generating section (40) that generates a component that acts on the hair, and a control section (80) that controls operations of the heat-imparting section (30) and the component-generating section (40). The component-generating section (40) is at least one of an ion-generating section that generates ions, an acidic component-generating section that generates an acidic component, and a charged fine particle water-generating section that generates charged fine particle water. The control section (80) controls a component amount of the component generated by the component-generating section (40) based on a hair characteristic of the user.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a hair care device. BACKGROUND

[0002] In the past, there has been a hair care device such as a hair dryer that not only simply dries the user's hair but also imparts a component effective for the user's hair. For example, Patent Literature 1 discloses a technology related to a hair dryer that applies ions as a component effective for the hair and adjusts the amount of the component based on the use time in addition to the user's setting.

[0003] PRIOR ART DOCUMENTS

[0004] PATENT LITERATURE

[0005] Patent Literature 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-58484 SUMMARY

[0006] The degree of bending, curling (hair curling) of hair differs depending on the user. Thus, even if the amount of ions as a component effective for the hair is adjusted as in the hair dryer disclosed in Patent Literature 1, it is conceivable that the effect will not be exerted effectively depending on the degree of bending or the like of the user's hair. That is, in the hair dryer disclosed in Patent Literature 1, the effect of the hair that the user desires in accordance with the characteristics of the hair such as the degree of bending or the like is not necessarily obtained. In addition, in the hair dryer disclosed in Patent Literature 1, the component shown as a component effective for the hair is only ions.

[0007] The present disclosure provides a hair care device in which the effect of the hair that the user desires is easily obtained.

[0008] The hair care device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a heat imparting section that imparts heat to the user's hair, a component generating section that generates a component that acts on the hair, and a control section that controls the operation of the heat imparting section and the component generating section. The component generating section is at least one of an ion generating section that generates ions, an acidic component generating section that generates an acidic component, and a charged fine particle water generating section that generates charged fine particle water. The control section controls the amount of the component generated by the component generating section based on the characteristics of the user's hair.

[0009] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a hair care device in which the effect of the hair that the user desires is easily obtained. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0010] Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view showing the structure of a hair dryer according to a first embodiment.

[0011] Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the structure of the hair dryer according to the first embodiment.

[0012] Figure 3A Fig. 1 is a diagram showing a structure of a first electrostatic atomizing device as an example of a component generating device capable of being employed as a component generating section.

[0013] Figure 3B Fig. 2 is a diagram showing a structure of a second electrostatic atomizing device as an example of a component generating device capable of being employed as a component generating section.

[0014] Figure 3C Fig. 3 is a diagram showing a structure of a third electrostatic atomizing device as an example of a component generating device capable of being employed as a component generating section.

[0015] Figure 4A Fig. 4 is a diagram relating to a first example of a setting position of a wetness detecting sensor and an illuminating section.

[0016] Figure 4B Fig. 5 is a diagram relating to a second example of a setting position of a wetness detecting sensor and an illuminating section.

[0017] Figure 4C Fig. 6 is a diagram relating to a third example of a setting position of a wetness detecting sensor and an illuminating section.

[0018] Figure 5 Fig. 7 is a block diagram showing a structure of a control section of a hair dryer according to the first embodiment.

[0019] Figure 6A Fig. 8 is a diagram showing an outline of hair in a case where a hair characteristic is a curl of hair.

[0020] Figure 6B Fig. 9 is a diagram showing an outline of hair in a case where a hair characteristic is a curl of hair.

[0021] Figure 6C Fig. 10 is a diagram showing an outline of hair in a case where a hair characteristic is a curl of hair.

[0022] Figure 6D Fig. 11 is a diagram showing an outline of hair in a case where a hair characteristic is a curl of hair.

[0023] Figure 7A Fig. 12 is a diagram showing an outline of hair in a case where a hair characteristic is a bend of hair.

[0024] Figure 7B Fig. 13 is a diagram showing an outline of hair in a case where a hair characteristic is a bend of hair.

[0025] Figure 8A Fig. 14 is a diagram showing an outline of a level of a curl or a bend of hair.

[0026] Figure 8B Fig. 15 is a diagram showing an outline of a level of a curl or a bend of hair.

[0027] Figure 8C is a summary chart illustrating the level of curl or bend of the hair.

[0028] Figure 8D is a summary chart illustrating the level of curl or bend of the hair.

[0029] Figure 9A is a chart illustrating the amount of ingredient set by the bend of the hair and by the hair state.

[0030] Figure 9B is a chart illustrating the amount of ingredient set by the bend of the hair and by the hair state.

[0031] Figure 10A is a first example of a graph showing the ingredient output ratio set by the curl of the hair for the kind of ingredient given to the hair.

[0032] Figure 10B is a chart of the first example of a graph showing the ingredient output ratio set by the curl of the hair for the kind of ingredient given to the hair.

[0033] Figure 11A is a second example of a graph showing the ingredient output ratio set by the curl of the hair for the kind of ingredient given to the hair.

[0034] Figure 11B is a chart of the second example of a graph showing the ingredient output ratio set by the curl of the hair for the kind of ingredient given to the hair.

[0035] Figure 12A is a chart illustrating the amount of ingredient set by the part of the hair and by the hair characteristic.

[0036] Figure 12B is a chart illustrating the amount of ingredient set by the part of the hair and by the hair characteristic.

[0037] Figure 13 is a timing chart showing an example of the relationship between the amount of charged fine particle water and the curl detection.

[0038] Figure 14 is a timing chart showing an example of the relationship between the amount of lead sub-particle or the like and the curl detection.

[0039] Figure 15 is a timing chart showing an example of the relationship between the amount of moisture or the like and the curl detection.

[0040] Figure 16 is a timing chart showing an example of the relationship between the amount of moisturizing ingredient or the like and the curl detection.

[0041] Figure 17Ais a diagram showing a first example of an input image.

[0042] Figure 17B is a diagram showing a second input image of the first example of the input image.

[0043] Figure 17C is a diagram showing a third input image of the first example of the input image.

[0044] Figure 18A is a diagram showing a first example of an output image showing a time point at which a middle of the hair is dried.

[0045] Figure 18B is a diagram showing a first example of an output image showing a time point at which a root of the hair is dried.

[0046] Figure 19 is a diagram showing a second example of the output image.

[0047] Figure 20A is a diagram showing a third example of the output image.

[0048] Figure 20B is a diagram showing a third example of the output image.

[0049] Figure 21 is a diagram showing a fourth example of the output image.

[0050] Figure 22A is a diagram showing a first input image of a second example of the input image.

[0051] Figure 22B is a diagram showing a second input image of the second example of the input image.

[0052] Figure 23 is a chart showing a setting example in a case where a component amount is changed by a part of the hair.

[0053] Figure 24 is a flowchart showing a determination procedure of determining an end of drying based on a curvature or the like.

[0054] Figure 25 is a chart explaining a principle for determining whether the hair is wet.

[0055] Figure 26 is a chart explaining a reference when determining whether the hair is wet.

[0056] Figure 27 is a time chart showing an example of a relationship between a charged fine particle application amount and a dryness degree.

[0057] Figure 28 is a time chart showing an example of a relationship between a cosmetic application amount and a dryness degree.

[0058] Figure 29 is a timing chart showing an example of the relationship between the two cosmetic application amounts and the dryness degree.

[0059] Figure 30 is a timing chart showing an example of the relationship between the air volume and the dryness degree.

[0060] Figure 31 is a schematic perspective view showing the structure of a first example of a hair dryer according to the second embodiment.

[0061] Figure 32 is a schematic perspective view showing the structure of a second example of a hair dryer according to the second embodiment.

[0062] Figure 33A is a flowchart showing the control procedure in the second embodiment.

[0063] Figure 33B is a flowchart showing the control procedure in the second embodiment.

[0064] Figure 34 is a chart explaining the effects of the control procedure in the second embodiment.

[0065] Figure 35A is a chart showing a fifth example of an output screen.

[0066] Figure 35B is a chart showing a fifth example of an output screen.

[0067] Figure 36 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the structure of a hair dryer according to the third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0068] Embodiments of a hair care device according to the present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, detailed description that exceeds necessity will be omitted at times. For example, detailed description of matters that are widely known or repeated description of substantially identical structures will be omitted at times. Furthermore, the accompanying drawings and the following description are provided so that those skilled in the art can fully understand the present disclosure, and are not intended to limit the subject matter recited in the claims by them.

[0069] (First Embodiment)

[0070] Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view showing the structure of a hair dryer 1 as a hair care device according to the first embodiment. The hair dryer 1 is provided with a main body portion 10 that blows warm air to a user and a grip portion 20 that is a portion to be held by the user with a hand at the time of use. Figure 2is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a structure of the hair dryer 1 obtained by cutting along the air blowing direction including the main body portion 10 and the holding portion 20.

[0071] The main body portion 10 has an outer case 3 that is an outer wall formed by joining a plurality of divided bodies. In the inner portion of the outer case 3, an air blowing flow path 4 is formed from a suction port 10a provided at one end portion in the longitudinal direction to a blow port 10b provided at the other end portion. As shown in Figure 2 The main body portion 10 and the holding portion 20 are joined by a joint portion 10c so as to be rotatable with the joint axis 10d as a reference. For example, when the hair dryer 1 is not used, the holding portion 20 is folded with respect to the main body portion 10 in a manner substantially parallel to the axis direction of the main body portion 10 extending in the air blowing direction. In the holding portion 20, a power supply cord 2 is drawn from the end portion on the side opposite to the joint portion 10c.

[0072] First, the hair dryer 1 has a heat-imparting portion 30, a component-generating portion 40, a measuring portion 50 (see Figure 5 ), an input portion 71, and a display portion 73.

[0073] The heat-imparting portion 30 imparts heat to the user's hair. In the present embodiment, the heat-imparting portion 30 is an air blowing portion that generates warm air to be blown to the user's hair. The heat-imparting portion 30 has, for example, a fan 31, a motor 32, and a heating portion 33. The fan 31 is disposed on the upstream side in the air blowing flow path 4, and is rotated by the motor 32. When the fan 31 is rotated, an air flow is formed that flows from the outside into the air blowing flow path 4 through the suction port 10a, and is discharged to the outside from the blow port 10b through the air blowing flow path 4. The heating portion 33 is disposed on the downstream side of the fan 31, and heats the air flow sent from the fan 31. When the heating portion 33 is operated, the air flow formed by the fan 31 is heated, and warm air is blown from the blow port 10b. The heating portion 33 can be, for example, a heater in which a resistance body in a band shape and a wave shape is wound along the inner periphery of the outer case 3.

[0074] The component generation section 40 generates a component that acts on the user's hair. Here, the component that acts on the hair refers to a so-called cosmetic component that can at least effectively act on the user's hair quality. As the component, for example, an agent / organic substance, a negative ion, a metal fine particle, or charged fine particle water can be listed. The agent / organic substance is, for example, a moisturizing component (moisturizer), a repairing component (repairing agent), a coating component (coating agent), or a maintenance component (maintenance agent). The moisturizing component is, for example, 1,3-butanediol, glycerin, panthenol, ceramide, hyaluronic acid, honey, or a polysaccharide. The repairing component is, for example, hydrolyzed collagen, hydrolyzed keratin, an amino acid, a hair protection protein, a polypeptide, cholesterol, a cationic surfactant, or an organic acid. The coating component is, for example, silicon, squalane, or an oily component. The maintenance component is, for example, a cationic surfactant, an amino acid, a polypeptide, panthenol, ceramide. In addition, in the present embodiment, as the acidic component that effectively acts on the hair, for example, citric acid, succinic acid is listed. Also, the charged fine particle water is a charged nanoscale water particle that contains OH radicals. In the present embodiment, the component generation section 40 is at least one of an ion generation section that generates ions, an acidic component generation section that generates an acidic component, and a charged fine particle water generation section that generates charged fine particle water.

[0075] Figures 3A-3C is a schematic diagram of the structure of a component generation device that can be employed as the component generation section 40. Figure 3A is a diagram showing the structure of a first electrostatic atomization device 40a that is an example of an agent spray device that uses an agent / organic substance as a component that acts. The first electrostatic atomization device 40a is provided with a sprayer 41a, a tank 41b, a pump 41c, a GND electrode 41d, a high voltage circuit 41e, and a pump drive circuit 41f. The sprayer 41a is a discharge portion that is formed to hold a liquid that is an agent / organic substance. The tank 41b is used to house, for example, an aqueous solution that contains a high molecule as the agent / organic substance. The pump 41c is provided to a pipe that connects the tank 41b and the sprayer 41a, and sends the aqueous solution of the high molecule housed in the tank 41b to the sprayer 41a. The high voltage circuit 41e applies a high voltage (HV) to the sprayer 41a. The pump drive circuit 41f controls the drive of the pump 41c. The high voltage circuit 41e and the pump drive circuit 41f are controlled by the component amount control section 84 (refer to Figure 5 ) in the control section 80 that is explained in detail below. When a high voltage is applied between the sprayer 41a and the GND electrode 41d, corona discharge or the like occurs, and an agent spray containing a high molecule is generated by the action of the discharge. In addition, the agent spray device that uses an agent / organic substance as a component that acts is not limited to the electrostatic atomization device such as the first electrostatic atomization device 40a, but can be an ultrasonic atomization device, a centrifugal pump, or the like.

[0076] Figure 3Bis a diagram showing a structure of a second electrostatic atomizing device 40b which is an example of a component generating device that generates a component using a negative ion and a metal fine particle as a component that functions. The second electrostatic atomizing device 40b includes a discharge portion 42a, a GND electrode 42b, and a high voltage circuit 42c. The high voltage circuit 42c is controlled by the component amount control portion 84 as with the structure of the first electrostatic atomizing device 40a. When a high voltage is applied between the discharge portion 42a and the GND electrode 41d, corona discharge or the like occurs, for example, and a negative ion that is negatively charged based on moisture in the air is generated by the discharge action. In this case, the second electrostatic atomizing device 40b is an ion generating portion in the present embodiment.

[0077] Figure 3C is a diagram showing a structure of a third electrostatic atomizing device 40c which is an example of a component generating device that generates a component using a charged fine particle water as a component that functions. The third electrostatic atomizing device 40c includes a discharge portion 43a, a Peltier element 43b which is a condensing portion, a GND electrode 43c, and a high voltage circuit 43d. The high voltage circuit 43d is controlled by the component amount control portion 84 as with the structure of the first electrostatic atomizing device 40a. When a high voltage is applied between the discharge portion 43a and the GND electrode 43c, corona discharge or the like occurs, and a charged fine particle water based on moisture in the air is generated by the discharge action. In this case, the third electrostatic atomizing device 40c is a charged fine particle water generating portion in the present embodiment.

[0078] For example, in a case where the component generating portion 40 in the present embodiment is the third electrostatic atomizing device 40c, as shown in Figure 2 a partition plate 3a for forming a branch path 10e that extends in parallel with the air supply flow path 4 is provided inside the housing 3 of the main body portion 10. In the air supply flow path 4, an air flow that has passed through the heating portion 33 flows, in contrast to which, in the branch path 10e, an air flow that has not passed through the heating portion 33 flows. Further, the third electrostatic atomizing device 40c is provided inside the branch path 10e. In addition, the component ejection port 10f is provided in a part of the main body portion 10, for example, a front surface portion 10g that faces the hair H when the drying operation is performed. The component ejection port 10f communicates with the branch path 10e and ejects a component generated by the component generating portion 40 to the outside. Furthermore, the component generating portion 40 can be at least one of the first electrostatic atomizing device 40a, the second electrostatic atomizing device 40b, and the third electrostatic atomizing device 40c. That is, a plurality of component generating portions 40 can be provided according to components to be imparted.

[0079] The measurement portion 50 (refer to Figure 5) to the control section 80. In the present embodiment, the measurement section 50 adopts a structure that measures the user's hair. In this case, the measurement section 50 has the wetness detection section 60, the illumination section 72, and the signal processing section 90 (refer to Figure 5 ).

[0080] The wetness detection section 60 detects a parameter that can be referred to in order to obtain information about the wetness of the user's hair. In the present embodiment, the wetness detection section 60 is a wetness detection sensor 60a that sets at least the water absorption wavelength (1450 nm or the like) of hair as a measurement value. Specifically, the wetness detection sensor 60a can be a photodiode. The illumination section 72 is a constituent element that, in conjunction with the wetness detection sensor 60a that is, for example, a photodiode, irradiates at least light of the water absorption wavelength. Further, the signal processing section 90 will be described together with the following matters related to the control section 80.

[0081] Figures 4A-4C is a schematic diagram for explaining the relationship between the respective arrangement positions of the wetness detection sensor 60a and the illumination section 72. As for the respective arrangement positions of the wetness detection sensor 60a and the illumination section 72, Figure 1 and Figure 2 indicated in the drawing are examples, and specifically, a plurality of examples like that indicated in Figures 4A-4C are considered. The illumination section 72 is a light irradiation section, and in contrast to this, the wetness detection sensor 60a is a light receiving section for receiving light that is reflected by the user's hair H after being irradiated from the illumination section 72. The wetness detection sensor 60a and the illumination section 72 are arranged at the front surface section 10g or are mounted at the nozzle section 14 of the ejection port 10b (refer to Figure 4B 、 Figure 4C ).

[0082] Figure 4A is a diagram related to a first arrangement example of the wetness detection sensor 60a and the illumination section 72. In the first arrangement example, the wetness detection sensor 60a and the illumination section 72 are each one. The wetness detection sensor 60a is arranged at a portion of the front surface section 10g. The illumination section 72 is arranged at a portion of the front surface section 10g on the side opposite to the wetness detection sensor 60a across the ejection port 10b. In this case, since the distance between the wetness detection sensor 60a and the illumination section 72 is the opening diameter of the ejection port 10b or more, the incident angle and the reflection angle of light are large.

[0083] Figure 4Bis a view related to a second setting example of the wetness detection sensor 60a and the lighting portion 72. In the second setting example, the wetness detection sensor 60a is one, and the lighting portion 72 is plural. The wetness detection sensor 60a is provided to the nozzle portion 14 in a manner of being located at the substantially center of the ejection port 10b. The lighting portion 72 is, for example, four, and is provided to the front surface portion 10g at equal intervals from each other. In this case, since the wetness detection sensor 60a and the lighting portion 72 are distanced to some extent, it is possible to secure the incident angle and the reflection angle of the light to some extent, and it is possible to increase the amount of irradiation of the light.

[0084] Figure 4C is a view related to a third setting example of the wetness detection sensor 60a and the lighting portion 72. In the third setting example, the wetness detection sensor 60a and the lighting portion 72 are each provided to the nozzle portion 14. In this case, since the wetness detection sensor 60a and the lighting portion 72 are close to each other, the incident angle and the reflection angle of the light are small.

[0085] Hereinafter, in the present embodiment, as an example, it is assumed that the information is inputted based on the second setting example shown in Figure 4B to explain.

[0086] The input portion 71 is, for example, a button for the user to input information related to the characteristics of the hair of the user (hereinafter referred to as "hair characteristics"). Here, the hair characteristics refer to the curl of the hair of the user or the curling of the hair (permed hair). In the example shown in Figure 1 , the input portion 71 is two input buttons of a hair curl input portion 71a and a hair curling input portion 71b provided to the housing 3 respectively. In addition, the input portion 71 can also include a button for easily switching the amount of wind, the temperature of the wind, and the like according to the preference of the user.

[0087] The display portion 73 is a display screen provided to the housing 3, for example, of a touch panel type, and functions as an input screen for the user to input information or an output screen to display information to the user. In addition, the state when functioning as the input screen or the output screen is described in detail below. In addition, in the case where the display portion 73 functions as the input screen, it is also possible to provide that the input portion 71 is not needed by causing the display portion 73 to replace the function performed by the input portion 71.

[0088] In addition, as shown in Figure 2 , the hair dryer 1 is provided with a room temperature sensor 61, a humidity sensor 62, a hair detection portion 63, and a portion detection portion 64.

[0089] The room temperature sensor 61 is a sensor for measuring the temperature of the room in which the hair dryer 1 is used. The room temperature sensor 61 is provided inside the housing 3. An output signal from the room temperature sensor 61 is sent to the control section 80.

[0090] The humidity sensor 62 is a sensor for measuring the humidity of the room in which the hair dryer 1 is used. The room temperature sensor 61 is provided inside the housing 3. An output signal from the humidity sensor 62 is sent to the control section 80.

[0091] The hair detection section 63 detects whether or not the user has hair. The hair detection section 63 is, for example, a laser range finder, a ToF (Time of Flight) camera, and is provided to a portion of the front surface section 10g. An output signal from the hair detection section 63 is sent to the control section 80.

[0092] The site detection section 64 detects a site to which the user's hair is applied with heat or a site to which the user's hair is applied with the above-described exemplified component. The site detection section 64 can also be a posture detection section (posture sensor) that detects at least one axis of the position or posture of the hair dryer 1 or a distance measurement section (distance sensor) that measures the distance to the user's hair or skin (face). In this case, in the case where the site detection section 64 is the distance measurement section, it is provided to a portion of the front surface section 10g. On the other hand, in the case where the site detection section 64 is the posture detection section, it is not limited to being provided to the front surface section 10g but can be provided inside the housing 3. An output signal from the site detection section 64 is sent to the control section 80.

[0093] Figure 5 is a block diagram showing the structure of the control section 80 of the hair dryer 1. The control section 80 controls the overall operation of the hair dryer 1 and controls the operation of the heat application section 30 and the component generation section 40 based on at least the hair measurement value obtained from the measurement section 50. The control section 80 is provided, for example, inside the housing 20a of the holding section 20. Further, the control section 80 has a computer system that has a processor and a memory. Also, the computer system functions as the control section 80 by the processor executing a program saved in the memory. Here, the program executed by the processor is recorded in advance in the memory of the computer system, but the program can also be recorded in a non-transitory recording medium such as a memory card and provided, and can also be provided through an electric communication line such as the Internet.

[0094] First, the control section 80 has a hair characteristic identification section 81, a table generation section 82, an application amount calculation section 83, a component amount control section 84, and a heat control section 85. The hair characteristic identification section 81, the table generation section 82, the application amount calculation section 83, the component amount control section 84, and the heat control section 85 are a module group for deciding the component application amount and the heat application amount based on the hair characteristics of the user.

[0095] The hair characteristic recognition section 81 classifies the hair characteristics of the user based on the hair measurement values obtained from the measurement section 50.

[0096] The table generation section 82 sets the ingredient amount of the ingredient generated by the ingredient generation section 40 and the heat amount imparted from the heat imparting section 30, and manages these set values as a table. In the table generation section 82, the ingredient amount and the heat amount are set for each of the hair characteristics classified by the hair characteristic recognition section 81.

[0097] The imparted amount calculation section 83 calculates the ingredient imparted amount to the hair by the ingredient generation section 40 or the heat imparted amount to the hair by the heat imparting section 30 based on the ingredient amount or the heat amount set by the table generation section 82. In the present embodiment, the imparted amount calculation section 83 can perform the following two kinds of calculation. First, the imparted amount calculation section 83 calculates the ingredient imparted amount per user based on the hair characteristics of the whole of the hair classified by the hair characteristic recognition section 81 and the ingredient amount set by the table generation section 82. Second, the imparted amount calculation section 83 calculates the ingredient imparted amount or the heat imparted amount per part of the hair based on the hair characteristics of each part of the hair classified by the hair characteristic recognition section 81 and the ingredient amount set by the table generation section 82.

[0098] The ingredient amount control section 84 controls the operation of the ingredient generation section 40, that is, the ingredient amount of the ingredient generated by the ingredient generation section 40, based on the ingredient imparted amount sent from the imparted amount calculation section 83.

[0099] The heat amount control section 85 controls the operation of the heat imparting section 30, that is, the heat amount imparted from the heat imparting section 30, based on the heat imparted amount sent from the imparted amount calculation section 83.

[0100] In addition, the control section 80 has a wetness calculation section 86 and a dryness estimation calculation section 87. The wetness calculation section 86 and the dryness estimation calculation section 87 are module groups for reflecting the dry state of the hair of the user to the ingredient imparted amount and the heat imparted amount.

[0101] The wetness calculation section 86 calculates wetness information relating to the wetness of the hair of the user based on the hair measurement values obtained from the measurement section 50. Here, for example, in the case where the wetness detection section 60 in the measurement section 50 is the wetness detection sensor 60a, the wetness information is absorbance calculated based on the signal intensity from the wetness detection sensor 60a.

[0102] The dryness estimation operation section 87 estimates the dryness of the user's hair based on the wetness information calculated by the wetness operation section 86. In the case where the wetness information is the absorbance, the dryness estimation operation section 87 estimates the dryness based on the change in the absorbance. In the dryness estimation operation section 87, the change in the absorbance is appropriately referred to in accordance with the cumulative time of the component or heat given to the hair (time subtraction), the cumulative time of the hair being in a floating state (time addition), or the cumulative time of the component or heat given to the skin (face) (time addition), for example. The dryness estimated by the dryness estimation operation section 87 is reflected in the component application amount in the component amount control section 84 or the heat application amount in the heat amount control section 85 via the application amount operation section 83. That is, the component application amount or the heat application amount is corrected in accordance with the dryness that reflects the various cumulative times.

[0103] In addition, the control section 80 has a site operation section 91, an initial position decision section 92, and a cumulative operation section 88. The site operation section 91, the initial position decision section 92, and the cumulative operation section 88 are a module group for determining the site of the user's hair to which the component or heat is applied.

[0104] The site operation section 91 estimates the site of the hair or the skin to which the heat from the heat application section 30 or the component from the component generation section 40 is applied, based on the information detected by the site detection section 64 and the initial position decided by the initial position decision section 92.

[0105] The initial position decision section 92 decides the initial position of the hair dryer 1 and sends it to the site operation section 91.

[0106] The cumulative operation section 88 operates the cumulative heat amount applied to the hair by the heat application section 30 or the cumulative component amount applied to the hair by the component generation section 40 for each site detected by the site detection section 64. In this case, the heat amount control section 85 causes the heat application section 30 to adjust the heat amount based on the cumulative heat amount calculated by the cumulative operation section 88. Specifically, the heat amount control section 85 corrects the heat application amount using data related to the cumulative heat amount calculated by the cumulative operation section 88 and controls the operation of the heat application section 30. On the other hand, the component amount control section 84 causes the component generation section 40 to adjust the component amount based on the cumulative component amount calculated by the cumulative operation section 88. Specifically, the component amount control section 84 corrects the component application amount using data related to the cumulative component amount calculated by the cumulative operation section 88 and controls the operation of the component generation section 40.

[0107] Furthermore, the control unit 80 is electrically connected to the signal processing unit 90 included in the measurement unit 50. The signal processing unit 90 controls the illumination from the illumination unit 72, processes the output of the wetness detection unit 60 (which serves as a wetness detection sensor 60a), and sends it as a signal strength to the wetness calculation unit 86. Alternatively, the signal processing unit 90 can also send the output of the wetness detection unit 60 as a signal strength to the hair characteristic recognition unit 81. In this case, the hair characteristic recognition unit 81 can classify the user's hair characteristics based on the signal strength sent from the signal processing unit 90.

[0108] In addition, such as Figure 2 As shown, the hair dryer 1 includes a power switch 76. The power switch 76 is, for example, located in the housing 20a of the handle 20. When the user operates the power switch 76 to turn on the power, power is supplied to various parts of the hair dryer 1 via the power cord 2 extending from the end of the handle 20. Furthermore, the power switch 76 can also be used to switch between warm and cold air, and to adjust the airflow, as performed by the heat-applying unit 30.

[0109] Furthermore, the hair dryer 1 may also include a transmitting / receiving unit 74 and a storage unit 75.

[0110] The transmitting / receiving unit 74 transmits signals to or receives signals from a communication device located outside the hair dryer 1, according to instructions from the control unit 80. Here, the external communication device could be, for example, a... Figure 2 The mobile terminal device 100 is shown as described. The mobile terminal device 100 includes a terminal display unit 101, a terminal camera unit 102, and a terminal communication unit 103. The terminal display unit 101 is a touch panel-type screen that displays image 101a. The terminal display unit 101 is an output screen for displaying information to the user, and also an input screen for the user to instruct or input information by touch. The terminal communication unit 103 performs transmission and reception at least between the transmitting and receiving units 74 of the hair dryer 1.

[0111] Storage unit 75 is an information storage medium that transmits and stores various types of data between itself and control unit 80. There are no particular limitations on the type of information storage medium.

[0112] Next, the operation of hair dryer 1 will be explained.

[0113] As the basic operation of the hair dryer 1, when the user turns on the power by operating the power switch 76 while holding the handle 20, the heat-imparting section 30 operates. Specifically, the motor 32 is driven by power feeding to rotate the fan 31, and thereby air is taken into the air-blowing flow path 4 from the suction port 10a. Also, the heating section 33 generates heat, and thereby the air sent from the fan 31 is heated. The heated air is blown out from the blowout port 10b as warm air. In addition, the user suitably operates the input section 71, and thereby the hair dryer 1 causes the component-generating section 40 to generate a component effective for hair and to blow out the component from the component blowout port 10f.

[0114] Also, the hair dryer 1 automatically optimizes the amount of the component to be imparted to the hair in accordance with the hair characteristics of the user. Hereinafter, the optimization of the amount of the component to be imparted will be described in detail.

[0115] First, an example of the hair characteristics assumed in the present embodiment will be described.

[0116] Figures 6A-6D is a schematic view illustrating a case where the hair characteristics of the user U are the curl of the hair H. Figure 6A shows the hair H in a case where the hair style is long straight hair and no curl is present. Figure 6B shows the hair H in a case where the hair style is short straight hair and no curl is present. Figure 6C shows the hair H in a case where a curl is present at the hair tip. Figure 6D shows the hair H in a case where a curl is present in the whole.

[0117] Figure 7A and Figure 7B is a schematic view illustrating a case where the hair characteristics of the user U are the bend of the hair H. Figure 7A shows the hair H in a case where no bend is present in the hair H. Figure 7B shows the hair H in a case where a bend is present in the hair H.

[0118] Figures 8A-8D is a schematic view illustrating the level of the curl or bend of the hair H. Figure 8A shows the hair H in a case where no curl or bend is present in the hair H, so-called straight hair. Figure 8B shows the hair H in a case where a curl or bend is present and the level thereof is weak. Figure 8C shows the hair H in a case where a curl or bend is present and the level thereof is medium. Figure 8D shows the hair H in a case where a curl or bend is present and the level thereof is strong.

[0119] The hair characteristics recognition section 81 discriminates, for example, the presence or absence of a curl or bend of the hair H using the wetness detection section 60 in the measurement section 50. Figures 6A to 8DThe kinds, levels of each of the hair characteristics exemplified above enable the classification of the hair characteristics of the user U.

[0120] Next, an example of the component amount set by the hair characteristic recognition section 81 for each of the hair characteristics classified by the hair characteristic recognition section 81 will be described.

[0121] Figure 9A And Figure 9B is a chart showing an example of the component amount set by the curl (wavy hair) of the user's hair and the hair condition. Here, as an example, the curl of the user's hair is classified into the four levels shown in FIG. 8. Further, the hair condition refers to the hair quality as the condition detected by the hair, and specifically, the hair damage, the alkaline hair, the cuticle peeling, the increase in the water absorption amount when the hair is wet, and the decrease in the water retention amount after the hair is dried. Figures 8A-8D

[0122] Figure 9A is a chart related to the case where the hair condition is the hair damage, the alkaline hair, the cuticle peeling, or the increase in the water absorption amount when wet. First, assume that the hair dryer 1 is capable of imparting a restorative agent as a component for repairing the hair damage of the user and the control section 80 determines the case where the hair damage is much. At this time, in the case where the hair is straight, the control section 80 controls the component generation section 40 to impart the restorative agent in an amount less than the default component amount. Further, in the case where the level of the curl is weak or medium, the control section 80 controls the component generation section 40 to impart the restorative agent without changing the default component amount. Also, in the case where the level of the curl is strong, the control section 80 controls the component generation section 40 to impart the restorative agent in an amount more than the default component amount.

[0123] Further, assume the case where the hair dryer 1 is capable of imparting the charged fine particle water as a component for repairing the alkaline hair of the user and the control section 80 determines that the hair of the user is the alkaline hair. At this time, the control section 80 can also control the component generation section 40 by the level of the curl of the hair as in the case where the restorative agent is imparted because the hair is damaged.

[0124] Further, assume the case where the hair dryer 1 is capable of imparting the sub-lead fine particle (metal fine particle) as a component for repairing the cuticle peeling of the hair of the user and the control section 80 determines the case where the cuticle peeling has occurred. At this time, the control section 80 can also control the component generation section 40 by the level of the curl of the hair as in the case where the restorative agent is imparted because the hair is damaged.

[0125] ​Also, assume a case where the hair dryer 1 is able to impart the charged fine particle water and the control section 80 determines that the water absorption amount at the time when the user's hair is wet has increased. At this time, the control section 80 can also control the component generation section 40 in accordance with the level of the curl of the hair, as in the case where the restorative agent is imparted when the hair is damaged.

[0126] Figure 9B is a graph related to a case where the state of the hair is that the water retention amount after the hair is dried has decreased. First, assume a case where the hair dryer 1 is able to impart the conditioner as a component for supplementing the decrease in the water retention amount and the control section 80 determines that the water retention amount after the hair is dried has decreased. At this time, in a case where the hair is straight hair, the control section 80 controls the component generation section 40 so as to impart the conditioner in an amount less than the default component amount. Also, in a case where the level of the curl is weak or moderate, the control section 80 controls the component generation section 40 so as to impart the conditioner without changing the default component amount. Also, in a case where the level of the curl is strong, the control section 80 controls the component generation section 40 so as to impart the conditioner in an amount more than the default component amount.

[0127] Also, assume a case where the hair dryer 1 is able to impart the moisturizing component as a component for supplementing the decrease in the water retention amount and the control section 80 determines that the water retention amount after the hair is dried has decreased. At this time, in a case where the hair is straight hair, the control section 80 controls the component generation section 40 so as to impart the moisturizing component without changing the default component amount. Also, in a case where the level of the curl is weak, moderate, or strong, the control section 80 controls the component generation section 40 so as to impart the moisturizing component in an amount more than the default component amount.

[0128] Also, assume a case where the hair dryer 1 is able to impart the moisturizing component as a component for supplementing the decrease in the water retention amount and the control section 80 determines that the water retention amount after the hair is dried has decreased. At this time, in a case where the hair is straight hair, the control section 80 controls the component generation section 40 so as to impart the moisturizing component without changing the default component amount. Also, in a case where the level of the curl is weak, moderate, or strong, the control section 80 controls the component generation section 40 so as to impart the moisturizing component in an amount more than the default component amount.

[0129] Also, assume a case where the hair dryer 1 is able to impart the charged fine particle water as a component for supplementing the decrease in the water retention amount and the control section 80 determines that the water retention amount after the hair is dried has decreased. At this time, the control section 80 can also control the component generation section 40 in accordance with the level of the curl of the hair, as in the case where the moisturizing component is imparted.

[0130] Figure 10A and Figure 10B is a graph showing the first example of the component output ratio set in accordance with the kind of the component imparted to the hair in accordance with the curl of the hair.Figure 10A is a graph summarizing the component output ratio (%) of the first example. Figure 10B is a graph summarizing the component output ratio (%) of the first example. Since the water of the charged fine particles can provide moisture to the hair, the component amount can also be increased as the level of curling increases from straight hair. Since the lead sub-oxide fine particles can improve the density of the cuticle layer of the hair, the component amount can also be increased as the level of curling increases from straight hair. Since the negative ions can provide a negative charge to the hair, the component amount can also be decreased as the level of curling increases from straight hair.

[0131] Figure 11A and Figure 11B is a graph showing the second example of the component output ratio set for the kind of component given to the hair by the curling of the hair. Figure 11A is a graph summarizing the component output ratio (%) of the second example. Figure 11B is a graph summarizing the component output ratio (%) of the second example. Since the moisture can provide moisture to the hair, the component amount can also be decreased as the level of curling increases from straight hair. Since the moisturizing component can improve the moisturizing property of the hair, the component amount can also be increased as the level of curling increases from straight hair. Since the repair component can repair the damage of the hair, the component amount can also be increased as the level of curling increases from straight hair. Since the coating component can inhibit the in-and-out of moisture in the hair, the component amount can also be increased as the level of curling increases from straight hair.

[0132] Figure 12A and Figure 12B is a graph showing an example of the component amount set by the part of the user's hair and by the hair characteristics. Here, as an example, the part of the user's hair is classified into three parts of the root, the middle, and the tip. In addition, the hair state is the same as the states shown in Figure 9A and Figure 9B

[0133] Figure 12A is a graph related to the case where the water absorption amount increases when the hair state is hair damage, alkaline hair, cuticle peeling, or wetness. First, it is assumed that the hair dryer 1 can give a repair agent as a component for repairing the damage of the user's hair and the control section 80 determines the case where the hair damage is much. At this time, the control section 80 controls the component generation section 40 to give the repair agent to the root of the hair in an amount less than the default component amount. In addition, the control section 80 controls the component generation section 40 to give the repair agent to the middle of the hair without changing the default component amount. Also, the control section 80 controls the component generation section 40 to give the repair agent to the tip of the hair in an amount more than the default component amount.

[0134] ​Further, assume a case where the hair dryer 1 is capable of imparting charged fine particle water as a component for repairing alkaline hair of the user and the control section 80 determines that the hair of the user is alkaline hair. At this time, the control section 80 controls the component generation section 40 so as to impart charged fine particle water in an amount less than the default component amount to the root of the hair. Further, the control section 80 controls the component generation section 40 so as to impart charged fine particle water to the middle of the hair without changing the default component amount. Also, the control section 80 controls the component generation section 40 so as to impart charged fine particle water in an amount more than the default component amount to the tip of the hair.

[0135] Further, assume a case where the hair dryer 1 is capable of imparting sub-lead fine particles (metal fine particles) as a component for repairing the occurrence of cuticle peeling of the hair of the user and the control section 80 determines that the cuticle peeling has occurred. At this time, the control section 80 controls the component generation section 40 so as to impart sub-lead fine particles in an amount less than the default component amount to the root of the hair. Further, the control section 80 controls the component generation section 40 so as to impart sub-lead fine particles to the middle of the hair without changing the default component amount. Also, the control section 80 controls the component generation section 40 so as to impart sub-lead fine particles in an amount more than the default component amount to the tip of the hair.

[0136] Also, assume a case where the hair dryer 1 is capable of imparting charged fine particle water and the control section 80 determines that the water absorption amount of the hair of the user when wet has increased. At this time, the control section 80 controls the component generation section 40 so as to impart charged fine particle water to the root of the hair without changing the default component amount. Further, the control section 80 controls the component generation section 40 so as to impart charged fine particle water in an amount more than the default component amount to the middle and the tip of the hair.

[0137] Figure 12B is a graph related to a case where the state of the hair is that the water retention amount after the hair is dried has decreased. First, assume a case where the hair dryer 1 is capable of imparting a conditioner as a component for supplementing the decrease in the water retention amount and the control section 80 determines that the water retention amount after the hair is dried has decreased. At this time, the control section 80 controls the component generation section 40 so as to impart a conditioner in an amount less than the default component amount to the root of the hair. Further, the control section 80 controls the component generation section 40 so as to impart a conditioner to the middle of the hair without changing the default component amount. Also, the control section 80 controls the component generation section 40 so as to impart a conditioner in an amount more than the default component amount to the tip of the hair.

[0138] Further, assume a case where the hair dryer 1 is capable of imparting the moisturizing ingredient as an ingredient for supplementing the decrease in the water retention amount and the control section 80 determines that the water retention amount after the hair is dried has decreased. At this time, the control section 80 controls the ingredient generation section 40 so as to impart the moisturizing ingredient to the root of the hair without changing the default ingredient amount. Further, the control section 80 controls the ingredient generation section 40 so as to impart the moisturizing ingredient to the middle and the tip of the hair in an amount more than the default ingredient amount.

[0139] Further, assume a case where the hair dryer 1 is capable of imparting the coating agent as an ingredient for supplementing the decrease in the water retention amount and the control section 80 determines that the water retention amount after the hair is dried has decreased. At this time, the control section 80 controls the ingredient generation section 40 so as to impart the coating agent to the root and the middle of the hair in an amount less than the default ingredient amount. Further, the control section 80 controls the ingredient generation section 40 so as to impart the coating agent to the tip of the hair without changing the default ingredient amount.

[0140] Further, assume a case where the hair dryer 1 is capable of imparting the charged fine particle water as an ingredient for supplementing the decrease in the water retention amount and the control section 80 determines that the water retention amount after the hair is dried has decreased. At this time, the control section 80 controls the ingredient generation section 40 so as to impart the charged fine particle water to the root of the hair without changing the default ingredient amount. Further, the control section 80 controls the ingredient generation section 40 so as to impart the charged fine particle water to the middle and the tip of the hair in an amount more than the default ingredient amount.

[0141] Next, an example of the change in the ingredient amount imparted by the ingredient generation section 40 with the drying time set as a time series will be described.

[0142] Figure 13This is a timing diagram illustrating an example of the relationship between the amount of charged microparticle water and the timing of detecting curl in the user's hair. The horizontal axis represents the drying time. The timing of detecting curl within this drying time is marked as "T". The vertical axis represents the percentage of charged microparticle water applied to the hair. During the drying operation, the control unit 80 determines the presence or absence of curl based on the location of the hair, for example, based on the output signals of the location detection unit 64 and the wetting detection unit 60. If curl is detected at the first timing T1, the control unit 80 controls the component amount control unit 84 to gradually decrease the component amount from the default to the desired amount and restore it to the default value after increasing it from the default. The default component amount of charged microparticle water can be approximately 35%. The component amount at the maximum application of charged microparticle water can also be approximately 90%. Then, when curl is detected at the second timing T2, the control unit 80 causes the component amount control unit 84 to perform the same control as in the first timing T1. If the component quantity temporarily increases due to the second timing T2 and a third timing T3 occurs during the process of restoring the default, the control unit 80 can also control the component quantity control unit 84 to increase the component quantity again before the component quantity returns to the default.

[0143] Figure 14 This is a time-series diagram illustrating an example of the relationship between the amount of zinc microparticles and negative ions and the timing of the detection of hair curl in the user. Regarding... Figure 14 The vertical axis, horizontal axis, and timing T in the middle Figure 13 It is the same. First, in the case where the component is zinc microparticles, the control unit 80 can also be... Figure 13 The component amount is adjusted similarly when imparting charged microparticle water as shown. The default component amount of zinc microparticles can also be around 35%. The component amount at the maximum impartation of zinc microparticles can also be around 90%. On the other hand, when the component is negative ions, if curling is detected at the first timing T1, the control unit 80 controls the component amount control unit 84 to gradually increase the component amount from the default to the desired component amount and restore it to the default after reducing it from the default to the desired component amount. The default component amount of negative ions can also be around 75%. The component amount at the minimum impartation of negative ions can also be around 20%. Then, when curling is detected at the second timing T2, the control unit 80 causes the component amount control unit 84 to perform the same control as in the case of the first timing T1. If the component amount is temporarily reduced due to the second timing T2 and a third timing T3 occurs during the process of restoring the default, the control unit 80 can also control the component amount control unit 84 to reduce the component amount again before the component amount returns to the default.

[0144] Figure 15is an example of a timing chart showing the relationship between the amount of the component of moisture and the moisturizing component and the timing at which the curling of the user's hair is detected. With respect to the vertical axis, the horizontal axis, and the timing T in Figure 15 , the same applies to Figure 13 . First, in the case where the component is moisture, the control section 80 can adjust the amount of the component as in the case where the negative ions are given as shown in Figure 14 . The default of the amount of the component of moisture can also be 100%. The amount of the component at the time of the minimum giving of moisture can also be around 70%. On the other hand, in the case where the component is the moisturizing component, the control section 80 can adjust the amount of the component as in the case where the charged fine particle water is given as shown in Figure 13 . The default of the amount of the component of the moisturizing component can also be around 25%. The amount of the component at the time of the maximum giving of the moisturizing component can also be around 75%.

[0145] Figure 16 is an example of a timing chart showing the relationship between the amount of the component of the repair component and the coating component and the timing at which the curling of the user's hair is detected. With respect to the vertical axis, the horizontal axis, and the timing T in Figure 16 , the same applies to Figure 13 . In the case where the component is the repair component and in the case where the component is the coating component, the control section 80 can adjust the amount of the component as in the case where the charged fine particle water is given as shown in Figure 13 . The default of the amount of the component of the repair component can also be around 40%. The amount of the component at the time of the maximum giving of the repair component can also be around 80%. On the other hand, the default of the amount of the component of the coating component can also be around 30%. The amount of the component at the time of the maximum giving of the coating component can also be around 70%.

[0146] Next, the input screen for the user to input information and the output screen to display information to the user will be described. In the present embodiment, the display section 73 is provided to the housing 3 of the main body section 10. Thus, the input screen and the output screen can also be displayed in the display section 73. On the other hand, in the case where the hair dryer 1 is provided with the transmission and reception section 74 that transmits and receives various information with the mobile terminal device 100, the input screen and the output screen can also be displayed in the terminal display section 101 of the mobile terminal device 100 instead of the display section 73. That is, if the hair dryer 1 is provided with the transmission and reception section 74, the display section 73 can not be provided at times. In the following description, the case where the input screen and the output screen are displayed in the terminal display section 101 of the mobile terminal device 100 will be exemplified.

[0147] Figures 17A-17C is a schematic diagram showing a first example of the input screen displayed in the terminal display section 101 (or the display section 73). Figure 17AA first input screen related to the first example is shown. The image 101a displayed in the first input screen is a simplified image of the hairstyle of the front of the user, and is a divided image obtained by dividing in the up-down direction and the left-right direction. In the first input screen, a simplified image of the hairstyle of the back of the user is also displayed. Figure 17B A second input screen of the first example is shown. The image 101a displayed in the second input screen is a simplified image of the hairstyle of the side of the user, and is a divided image obtained by dividing in the front-back direction. Figure 17C A third input screen of the first example is shown. In the third input screen, a horizontal adjustment screen for allowing the user to change the setting of certain items is displayed in each region of the divided screens displayed in the first and second input screens.

[0148] Figure 18A And Figure 18B is a summary view of the first example of the output screen displayed in the terminal display section 101 (or the display section 73). The output screen of the first example displays various states related to the period during which the hair dryer 1 dries the hair or the period during which the hair is given a component in real time. Figure 18A is an output screen of the time point at which the middle of the hair is dried. Figure 18B is an output screen of the time point at which the root of the hair is dried. The display items in the output screen of the first example are, for example, the part of the hair that is being dried, the temperature of the part being dried (the temperature of the part being blown dry), the amount of moisture in the hair, and the amount of the component given, respectively, at the current time point. In this example, as the amount of the component, the amounts of the charged fine particle water and the negative ions are displayed. As shown in Figure 18A and Figure 18B , with respect to the part of the hair that is being dried, the user can be visually indicated the part by displaying a simplified image of the hair dryer with respect to the simplified image of the hair. Also, with respect to the amount of moisture and the amount of the component, the user can be visually indicated the amounts by displaying, for example, a pie chart in addition to the numerical values.

[0149] Figure 19 is a summary view of the second example of the output screen displayed in the terminal display section 101 (or the display section 73). The output screen of the second example displays various states related to the period after at least a part of the hair is dried or the period after at least a part of the hair is given a component by the hair dryer 1, not in real time. As shown in Figure 19 , as a result of the user using the hair dryer 1, the amount of the component effective for the hair of the user can be displayed. In this example, the amounts of the charged fine particle water and the negative ions are displayed.

[0150] Figure 20A and Figure 20Bis a summary view showing a third example of an output screen displayed in the terminal display section 101 (or the display section 73). The output screen of the third example, like the output screen of the second example, displays various states non-real-time. Also, the output screen of the third example displays the component amount of each part of the user's hair, and displays the parts of the hair and the component amount of each of the parts in a manner that the user can change. In the output screen of the third example, a diagram of the user's hair labeled with three touch regions is displayed first. The first touch region 101b corresponds to the part of the root of the hair. The second touch region 101c corresponds to the part of the middle of the hair. The third touch region 101d corresponds to the part of the tip of the hair. Also, in the output screen of the third example, the component amount at the current time point is displayed with, for example, a pie chart in addition to the numerical value. For example, the first pie chart 101e shows the component amount of the charged fine particle water. The second pie chart 101f shows the component amount of the negative ions. As an example, Figure 20A shows a state in which the user selects the middle as the part of the hair that the user wants to change the component amount of through the subsequent operation of the hair dryer 1. In this case, the user can select the middle by touching the second touch region 101c in the third output screen.

[0151] As an example, Figure 20B shows a state in which the user inputs a newly set component amount when the user wants to change the component amount through the subsequent operation of the hair dryer 1. The user can set the desired component amount by changing the display value while touching the first pie chart 101e and the second pie chart 101f in the third output screen.

[0152] Figure 21 is a summary view showing a fourth example of an output screen displayed in the terminal display section 101 (or the display section 73). The output screen of the fourth example, like the output screen of the third example, displays various states non-real-time. In Figure 20A In the third example of the output screen shown, when any of the first touch region 101b, the second touch region 101c, and the third touch region 101d is touched, the component amount of the part corresponding to the region is displayed. In contrast, in the output screen of the fourth example, the component amount of each part of the hair is displayed at once, and the order of the parts to which the user should impart heat or components by the hair dryer 1 is displayed with numbers. The user moves the hair dryer 1 in an order according to the numbers labeled on each of the first touch region 101b, the second touch region 101c, and the third touch region 101d, thereby being able to impart the desired components efficiently.

[0153] Figure 22A and Figure 22BThis is a schematic diagram showing a second example of an input screen displayed on the terminal display unit 101 (or display unit 73). The second example of the input screen corresponds to a situation where the composition applied to the user according to the location of the hair is changed. Figure 22A The first input screen of the second example is shown. The image 101a displayed in the first input screen is a simplified diagram of the user's front hairstyle, and is a segmented image divided into three parts in the vertical direction: the roots, the middle, and the ends. A simplified diagram of the user's back hairstyle is also displayed in the first input screen. Figure 22B The second input screen of the second example is shown. In the second input screen, level adjustment screens for allowing the user to change the setting of charged microparticle water are displayed in each area of ​​the split screen shown on the first input screen. Regarding charged microparticle water, if the user does not want to change it to the component amount set by the control unit 80 but wants to change it to their desired component amount, the first input screen first displays three areas in the hair where the component amount can be changed as image 101a. Then, the user can display the second input screen and change the level by multiple areas to achieve the desired component amount of charged microparticle water.

[0154] Figure 23 It shows the use Figure 22B The second example shown is a graph illustrating the settings for changing the amount of hair component based on its location. Figure 22B In the example shown, if the component to be changed is charged microparticle water, for instance, if the level of charged microparticle water applied to the roots of the hair was "2" before the change, the user can adjust the level to "3" using the input screen in the second example, according to their own preference. For other parts of the hair, such as the middle and ends, the user can similarly change the amount of the component related to charged microparticle water to the desired amount by changing the level. Furthermore, not only charged microparticle water, but also other components such as negative ions and agents / organic substances can have their amounts changed using the input screen in the second example.

[0155] Next, the method for determining the end of drying based on the curliness or curl of the hair will be explained.

[0156] Figure 24is a flowchart showing the procedure of the determination process of the end of drying in the case where the curling and crimping of the hair is taken as a basis. First, the control section 80 causes the hair detection section 63 to detect the hair of the user (step S101). Next, the control section 80 determines whether or not the hair is present on the basis of the detection result obtained by the hair detection section 63 (step S102). Here, the control section 80, in the case where it is determined that the hair is not present (step S102: "No"), returns to step S101, and repeats the detection of the hair. On the other hand, the control section 80, in the case where it is determined that the hair is present (step S102: "Yes"), next, for example, causes the wetness operation section 86 to operate the degree of curling and crimping of the hair on the basis of the output signal from the wetness detection section 60 (step S103). Next, the control section 80, for example, causes the hair characteristic recognition section 81 to perform the horizontal division of the curling and crimping by the section on the basis of the output signal from the section detection section 64 and the calculation result of the wetness operation section 86 (step S104). Next, the control section 80, for example, causes the table generation section 82 to decide the component amount corresponding to the level of curling and crimping of each section of the hair (step S105). Next, the control section 80 transmits the parameter relating to the component amount decided in step S105 to the application amount operation section 83 (step S106). Next, the control section 80 causes the drying operation to start, that is, causes the heat control section 85 to perform control so that the heat application section 30 starts to apply heat (step S107). Next, the control section 80 causes the component amount control section 84 to perform control so that the component generation section 40 starts to apply the component on the basis of the component amount parameter transmitted to the application amount operation section 83 (step S108). Next, during the operation of the component generation section 40, the control section 80, for example, causes the cumulative operation section 88 to operate the cumulative component amount, and determines whether or not the cumulative component amount has reached a prescribed value (step S109). Here, the control section 80, in the case where it is determined that the cumulative component amount has not reached the prescribed value (step S109: "No"), repeats the determination of step S109. On the other hand, the control section 80, in the case where it is determined that the cumulative component amount has reached the prescribed value (step S109: "Yes"), ends the operation of the heat application section 30 and the component generation section 40, and ends the drying.

[0157] Next, how the control section 80 estimates the dryness of the hair when drying the hair of the user will be described.

[0158] Figure 25 is a diagram illustrating several principles that can be used to determine whether the hair is in a wet state or a dry state. First, in the present embodiment, the dryness of the hair is estimated by the dryness estimation operation section 87 on the basis of the wetness information calculated by the wetness operation section 86. Also, in the present embodiment, specifically, the wetness detection section 60 is a wetness detection sensor 60a that is a photodiode. The wetness information is the absorbance calculated by the wetness operation section 86 on the basis of the signal strength from the wetness detection sensor 60a. As shown inFigure 25 As shown in the upper column in Table 1, in the case where the hair is wet, when light is irradiated from the illumination section 72, the light absorbed by the hair is large, and thus the reflected light received by the wetness detection sensor 60a decreases. On the other hand, in the case where the hair is dry, when light is irradiated from the illumination section 72, the light absorbed by the hair is small, and thus the reflected light received by the wetness detection sensor 60a does not decrease. That is, the dryness estimation section 87 can estimate the dryness degree based on the change in the absorbance, in other words, estimate whether the hair is wet or dry.

[0159] In addition, as another principle, the bundle state of the hair can be set as the wetness information and the dryness degree of the hair can be calculated by machine learning. In this case, the wetness detection section 60 is a camera or the like that photographs the hair. The wetness calculation section 86 is a machine learning calculation section that discriminates the bundle state of the hair based on the hair image photographed by the wetness detection section 60. As shown in the middle column in Table 1, in the case where the hair is wet, the hair sticks together and forms a bundle. On the other hand, in the case where the hair is dry, the hair is scattered and independent of each other. That is, the dryness estimation section 87 can estimate the dryness degree based on the bundle state of the hair discriminated by the machine learning calculation section. Figure 25

[0160] In addition, the temperature of the hair can be set as the wetness information, and the dryness degree of the hair can be calculated by the wetness calculation section 86. In this case, the wetness detection section 60 is a temperature sensor. The temperature sensor can be, for example, an infrared thermometer (infrared sensor). The wetness calculation section 86 calculates the temperature as the wetness information based on the hair measurement value measured by the wetness detection section 60. As shown in the lower column in Table 1, in the case where the hair is wet, when warm air is blown from the blowout port 10b to the hair, the temperature is difficult to rise and easy to cool on the surface of the hair, and thus the temperature change is small. On the other hand, in the case where the hair is dry, when warm air is blown from the blowout port 10b to the hair, the temperature is easy to rise and difficult to cool on the surface of the hair, and thus the temperature change is large. That is, the dryness estimation section 87 can estimate the dryness degree based on the change in the temperature of the hair. Figure 25

[0161] Figure 26 is a table that explains specific criteria when determining whether the hair is in a wet state or a dry state, corresponding to Figure 25 First, as in the present embodiment, in the case of determining based on the change in the absorbance, as shown in the upper column in Table 1, it can be determined that the hair is wet when the absorbance is 70% to 30%, and on the other hand, it can be determined that the hair is dry when the absorbance is 29% to 10%. In addition, in the case of determining based on the bundle state of the hair, as shown in the middle column in Table 1, it can be determined that the hair is wet when the bundle state is a bundle, and on the other hand, it can be determined that the hair is dry when the bundle state is scattered. In addition, in the case of determining based on the temperature of the hair, as shown in the lower column in Table 1, it can be determined that the hair is wet when the temperature is 30°C to 40°C, and on the other hand, it can be determined that the hair is dry when the temperature is 41°C to 50°C. Figure 26 Figure 25 Figure 26 ​​​​As shown in the lower column of each of the middle columns, the result of the machine learning can be followed. Also, in the case where the determination is made based on the change in temperature, as shown in the lower column of Figure 26 the gradient of the change in temperature when the hair contacts the warm air is gentle, it can be determined that the hair is wet, and on the other hand, when the gradient is steep, it can be determined that the hair is dry.

[0162] Next, an example of setting the drying time as a timing related to the component imparted by the hair dryness and component imparting section 40 or the heat imparted by the heat imparting section 30 in a time series will be described.

[0163] Figure 27 is a time chart showing an example of the relationship between the amount of charged fine particles imparted and the dryness of the hair. The upper graph shows the amount of charged fine particles imparted (mg) with respect to the drying time (s). The lower graph shows the dryness (%) with respect to the drying time (s). In Figure 27 , the drying time as the horizontal axis of the upper graph and the lower graph corresponds to each other. The control section 80 can also adjust the amount of charged fine particle water imparted in accordance with the dryness of the hair. Specifically, the control section 80 can also increase the amount of charged fine particle water imparted when the hair is wet, that is, when the dryness is low, and decrease the amount of charged fine particle water imparted when the hair is dry, that is, when the dryness is high.

[0164] Figure 28 is a time chart showing an example of the relationship between the amount of charged fine particles imparted and the dryness of the hair. The upper graph shows the amount of charged fine particles imparted (mg) with respect to the drying time (s). The lower graph shows the dryness (%) with respect to the drying time (s). In Figure 28 , the drying time as the horizontal axis of the upper graph and the lower graph corresponds to each other. The control section 80 can also adjust the amount of charged fine particle water imparted in accordance with the dryness of the hair. Specifically, the control section 80 can also increase the amount of charged fine particle water imparted when the hair is wet, that is, when the dryness is low, and decrease the amount of charged fine particle water imparted when the hair is dry, that is, when the dryness is high. Figure 28 In the example shown in Figure 28 , the control section 80 causes the component imparting section 40 to impart, for example, 4 mg of the cosmetic during the period when the dryness does not exceed 60% as the threshold value. In other words, the control section 80 causes the component imparting section 40 to stop the imparting of the cosmetic when the dryness exceeds 60% as the threshold value. That is, the control section 80 can also cause the cosmetic to be imparted only when the hair is relatively wet.

[0165] Figure 29 is a time chart showing an example of the relationship between the amount of charged fine particles imparted and the dryness of the hair. The upper graph shows the amount of charged fine particles imparted (mg) with respect to the drying time (s). The lower graph shows the dryness (%) with respect to the drying time (s). InFigure 29 In this case, the drying time as the horizontal axis of the upper graph, the middle graph, and the lower graph corresponds to each other. The control section 80 causes the component generating section 40 to apply, for example, only 4 mg of the cosmetic A only during a period when the dryness does not exceed the threshold value, that is, when the hair is relatively wet. On the other hand, the control section 80 causes the component generating section 40 to apply, for example, only 4 mg of the cosmetic B only during a period when the dryness exceeds the threshold value, that is, when the hair is relatively dry. That is, the control section 80 can specifically apply the cosmetic A as an agent that is intended to penetrate the hair during a period when the hair is wet, and specifically apply the cosmetic B as a coating agent during a period when the hair is dry.

[0166] Figure 30 is a time chart showing an example of the relationship between the air volume and the dryness of the hair. The upper graph shows the air volume (m 3 / s) with respect to the drying time (s). The lower graph shows the dryness with respect to the drying time (s). In the upper graph and the lower graph, the drying time as the horizontal axis corresponds to each other. Figure 30 In this case, the drying time as the horizontal axis of the upper graph and the lower graph corresponds to each other. The control section 80 can also adjust the air volume in accordance with the dryness of the hair. Specifically, when the hair is gradually dried, the control section 80 can gradually decrease the air volume, and on the other hand, can increase the temperature. When the hair is gradually dried, the glass transition point rises. Therefore, by decreasing the air volume as the hair is dried, the curl of the hair can be straightened.

[0167] Next, the effects of the hair dryer 1 will be described.

[0168] The hair dryer 1 as the hair care apparatus according to the present embodiment includes a heat applying section 30 that applies heat to the hair of the user, a component generating section 40 that generates a component that acts on the hair, and a control section 80 that controls the operation of the heat applying section 30 and the component generating section 40. The component generating section 40 is at least one of an ion generating section that generates ions, an acidic component generating section that generates an acidic component, and a charged fine particle water generating section that generates charged fine particle water. The control section 80 controls the component amount of the component generated by the component generating section 40 on the basis of the hair characteristics of the user.

[0169] In the present embodiment, the hair dryer 1 can apply at least one of ions, an acidic component, and charged fine particle water to the hair of the user. In addition, in the hair dryer 1, when applying heat or a component to the hair of the user, the control section 80 refers to the hair characteristics of the user and causes the component generating section 40 to apply a component of a component amount that is appropriate for the hair characteristics of the user. That is, the control section 80 can perform very fine control that is optimal for the user who uses the hair dryer 1.

[0170] As such, the present embodiment can provide a hair care device that easily obtains a desired effect on hair by a user.

[0171] In addition, in the hair dryer 1, the hair characteristic can be a curl or a wave of the hair.

[0172] Such a hair dryer 1 can make the hair characteristic that the control section 80 can refer to have a large number of variations, and as a result, can more easily obtain a desired effect on hair by a user. In the hair dryer 1 according to the present embodiment, in particular, by setting the hair characteristic to a curl or a wave of the hair, an optimal amount of ingredient appropriate to the level of the curl or the wave can be imparted, and as a result, the wave can be made more gentle, or the touch feeling of the hair can be further improved.

[0173] In addition, the hair dryer 1 is provided with a display section 73 that displays at least an image of the hair. It can also be that the control section 80 changes the amount of ingredient, or the kind or the level of the hair characteristic, based on the entirety or a part of the image selected by the user in the display section 73.

[0174] In such a hair dryer 1, the amount of ingredient, or the kind or the level of the hair characteristic, set by the control section 80 can be changed to a setting preferred by the user using the screen of the display section 73, and thus a desired effect on hair by a user can be more easily obtained.

[0175] In addition, the hair dryer 1 is provided with a wetness detection sensor 60a that measures the hair. The control section 80 can also have a dryness estimation operation section 87 that estimates the dryness of the hair based on the hair measurement value obtained from the wetness detection sensor 60a, and an amount of imparting operation section 83 that adjusts the amount of ingredient based on the dryness estimated by the dryness estimation operation section 87.

[0176] According to such a hair dryer 1, the control section 80 adjusts the amount of ingredient while referring to the dryness of the hair in the drying operation, and thus an ingredient adjusted to be more optimal can be imparted to the hair. In the hair dryer 1 according to the present embodiment, in particular, by setting the hair characteristic to a curl or a wave of the hair, recovery of the wave due to wetting of the hair can be suppressed.

[0177] Further, the hair dryer 1 is provided with a transmission / reception section 74 that transmits and receives with a terminal communication section 103 provided in the mobile terminal device 100 that is a communication device outside. Here, it is assumed that the terminal display section 101 provided in the mobile terminal device 100 displays at least an image 101a of the hair. At this time, it is also possible that the transmission / reception section 74 receives information about the entirety or a part selected by the user in the image 101a of the terminal display section 101 from the terminal communication section 103. Further, it is also possible that the control section 80 changes the amount of the ingredient to the amount desired by the user based on the information about the entirety or the part of the image 101a received by the transmission / reception section 74 from the terminal communication section 103.

[0178] According to such a hair dryer 1, the user can adjust the settings in the hair dryer 1 from the mobile terminal device 100, and thus the convenience of the user can be improved.

[0179] (Second Embodiment)

[0180] The hair dryer 1 of the above-described first embodiment employs a wetness detection sensor 60a (photodiode) as an example of the wetness detection section 60. In contrast, the hair dryer 1 of the second embodiment employs either of the two photographing sections described below as an example of the wetness detection section 60 instead of the wetness detection sensor 60a.

[0181] Figure 31 is a schematic perspective view showing the structure of the first example of the hair dryer 1 as the hair care device according to the second embodiment. The hair dryer 1 according to the first example of the present embodiment is provided with a photographing section 60b provided instead of the wetness detection sensor 60a in the first embodiment, and an illumination section 72 provided so as to surround a part of the blowout port 10b. Further, in the hair dryer 1 here, the structures other than the photographing section 60b and the illumination section 72 are the same as those in the first embodiment (except for the control section 80 and the structures related to the control of the signal processing section 90 and the like), and thus the same reference numerals are attached thereto, and detailed description thereof is omitted.

[0182] Figure 32This is a schematic perspective view showing the structure of a second example of a hair dryer 1, which is a hair care device according to the second embodiment. The hair dryer 1 according to this second embodiment includes a transmit / receive unit 74, which transmits and receives data with a mobile terminal device 100 (terminal communication unit 103), which is an external communication device. Here, the hair dryer 1 utilizes the terminal camera unit 102 of the mobile terminal device 100 as the camera unit of the wetness detection unit 60. Alternatively, the hair dryer 1 according to this second embodiment may also include a temperature sensor 60c (infrared sensor) instead of the wetness detection sensor 60a in the first embodiment. In this case, the illumination unit 72 is not required. Furthermore, when the temperature sensor 60c is used as the wetness detection unit 60, if... Figure 25 and Figure 26 As explained, the drying estimation calculation unit 87 can estimate the degree of dryness based on the temperature change of the hair relative to the drying time. Furthermore, in the hair dryer 1 described above, the structure of the first embodiment (except for the control unit 80 and the control-related structures such as the signal processing unit 90) is the same, so it is marked with the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0183] First, the hair dryer 1 according to this embodiment differs from that of the first embodiment in that it employs a photographic unit as described above. In other words, the similarities between the first and second embodiments lie in imparting at least one of ions, acidic components, and charged microparticle water to the user's hair, and determining the component amounts based on the characteristics of the user's hair. Therefore, the hair dryer 1 according to this embodiment achieves the same effect as the hair dryer 1 according to the first embodiment.

[0184] Furthermore, when the camera unit 60b or the terminal camera unit 102 is used as the wetting detection unit 60, the drying estimation calculation unit 87 can estimate the degree of dryness based on teacher data of hair images captured by the camera unit 60b and the like over drying time through machine learning. In this case, the phrase "hair measurement value" used in the description of the hair dryer 1 according to the first embodiment can be replaced with "hair image" in this embodiment. That is, according to the hair dryer 1 according to this embodiment, the control unit 80 can also adjust the component amount while referring to the degree of dryness of the hair during the drying operation, so that the hair can be given a component with a more optimal component amount. Moreover, in the hair dryer 1 according to this embodiment, by setting the hair characteristics to be curved and curled, the recovery of curl caused by hair wetting can be suppressed.

[0185] In addition, in the hair dryer 1 according to this embodiment, as shown below, it is also possible to utilize the component quantity data accumulated based on the hair level determination using hair images whenever the user performs a drying operation.

[0186] Figure 33A and Figure 33B This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the motion control process performed by the control unit 80 in the hair dryer 1 according to this embodiment.

[0187] When the control unit 80 initiates the motion control process, for example, after the hair detection unit 63 detects the user's hair, i.e., detects that the nozzle 10b of the hair dryer 1 is pointing towards the hair, the camera unit 60b takes a picture of the hair (step S201). Here, the camera unit 60b takes a picture of the hair before the user washes their hair, or when the control unit 80 determines, based on the hair measurement values ​​obtained by the moisture detection unit 60, that the user's hair is not wet. Next, the control unit 80 instructs the hair characteristic recognition unit 81 to determine the type and level of hair characteristics based on the hair image obtained in step S201 (step S202). Here, data related to the determined type and level of hair characteristics is stored in the storage unit 75. Next, the control unit 80 determines whether the hair is curly (or bent) based on the determination result in step S202 (step S203).

[0188] In step S203, if the control unit 80 determines that the hair is not curly, i.e., the hair is straight (step S203: "No"), it switches to... Figure 33B Step S204 is shown.

[0189] Reference Figure 33B Next, the control unit 80 sets the component amount in the table generation unit 82 based on the level determination result in step S202 (step S204). Then, when the user performs the drying operation, the control unit 80 activates the heat application unit 30 via the heat control unit 85 to dry the user's hair (step S205). At this time, the control unit 80 appropriately activates the component generation unit 40 via the component amount control unit 84 to apply the component amount set in step S204. After the drying operation in step S205 is completed, the control unit 80 enters a standby state until the user performs the drying operation again.

[0190] Next, when the user starts the next drying operation, the control section 80 causes the imaging section 60b to capture the hair, as in the above step S201 (step S206). Next, the control section 80 causes the hair characteristic recognition section 81 to determine the kind and level of the hair characteristic based on the hair image obtained in step S206 (step S207). Here, data relating to the kind and level of the determined hair characteristic is stored in the storage section 75. Next, the control section 80 compares the tendency between the data relating to the hair characteristic determined in step S207 and the data relating to the hair characteristic determined in step S202 in relation to the previous drying operation, which are respectively stored in the storage section 75 (step S208).

[0191] Next, as a result of the comparison in step S208, the control section 80 determines whether this time is better than the previous time in relation to the level of the curl and wave, which are hair characteristics, (step S209). Here, it is assumed that the component to be applied is a component that is the optimum amount of the hair characteristic for making the hair characteristic better. In this case, first, the control section 80, in the case where it is determined that this time is better than the previous time (step S209: "Yes"), can already not continue to increase the component amount, so it decreases the component amount thereafter (step S210). On the other hand, the control section 80, in the case where it is determined that this time is not better than the previous time (step S209: "No"), proceeds to step S212. Next, in step S212, as a result of the comparison in step S208, the control section 80 determines whether this time is the same as the previous time in relation to the level of the curl and wave, which are hair characteristics. Here, the control section 80, in the case where it is determined that this time is the same as the previous time (step S212: "Yes"), further decreases the component amount that can make the hair characteristic better (step S213). On the other hand, the control section 80, in the case where it is determined that this time is not the same as the previous time, that is, in the case where it is determined that this time is worse than the previous time (step S212: "No"), increases the component amount thereafter (step S214). Then, when the component amount has been changed in step S210, step S213, or step S214, next, the control section 80 causes the changed component amount data to be stored in the storage section 75 (step S211).

[0192] On the other hand, in the case where it is determined that the hair is not curled (step S203: "No"), the control section 80 proceeds to step S204. Figure 33A In step S203 shown in FIG. 8, the control section 80, in the case where it is determined that the hair is curled (step S203: "Yes"), proceeds to step S215.

[0193] Next, the control section 80 causes the table generating section 82 to set the component amount based on the level determination result in step S202 (step S215). Then, when the drying operation is performed by the user, the control section 80 causes the heat control section 85 to cause the heat applying section 30 to operate, to dry the hair of the user (step S216). At this time, the control section 80 causes the component generating section 40 to operate by the component amount control section 84, to apply the component of the component amount set in step S215. After the drying operation in step S216 is finished, the control section 80 becomes the standby state until the next drying operation is performed by the user.

[0194] Next, when the user starts the next drying operation, the control section 80 causes the imaging section 60b to image the hair as in step S201 described above (step S217). Next, the control section 80 causes the hair property recognizing section 81 to determine the kind and level of the hair property based on the hair image obtained in step S217 (step S218). Here, data relating to the kind and level of the determined hair property is stored in the storage section 75. Next, the control section 80 compares the tendency between the data relating to the hair property determined in step S218 and the data relating to the hair property determined in step S202 relating to the drying operation before the last time (step S219).

[0195] Next, as a result of the comparison in step S219, the control section 80 determines whether the level of the curl, which is a hair characteristic, is better this time than before the last time (step S220). Here, it is assumed that the component to be applied is a component that is the optimum amount for the hair characteristic in order to make the hair characteristic better. In this case, first, the control section 80, in the case where it is determined that this time is better than before the last time (step S220: "Yes"), increases the component amount thereafter (step S221). On the other hand, the control section 80, in the case where it is determined that this time is not better than before the last time (step S220: "No"), proceeds to step S223. Next, in step S223, as a result of the comparison in step S208, the control section 80 determines whether this time is the same as before the last time with respect to the level of the curl, which is a hair characteristic. Here, the control section 80, in the case where it is determined that this time is the same as before the last time (step S223: "Yes"), there is still room for optimization, so it increases the component amount thereafter (step S224). On the other hand, the control section 80, in the case where it is determined that this time is not the same as before the last time, that is, in the case where it is determined that this time is worse than before the last time (step S223: "No"), it is already possible to no longer continue to increase the component amount, so it decreases the component amount thereafter (step S225). Then, when the component amount has been changed in step S221, step S224, or step S225, next, the control section 80 causes the changed component amount data to be stored in the storage section 75 (step S222).

[0196] Then, after step S211 or step S222, the control section 80 determines whether there is a next drying operation (step S226). Here, the control section 80, in the case where it is determined that there is a next drying operation (step S226: "Yes"), causes the heat control section 85 to cause the heat application section 30 to operate to dry the user's hair (step S227). At this time, the control section 80 controls the component amount control section 84 based on the changed component amount data accumulated in step S211 or step S222 to cause the component generation section 40 to operate. After the drying operation in step S227 ends, the control section 80 becomes in a standby state until the next time the user performs a drying operation, and thereafter, it can return to step S201.

[0197] On the other hand, in step S226, the control section 80, in the case where it is determined that there is no next drying operation (step S226: "No"), ends the operation control process in this embodiment.

[0198] Figure 34 is a description of the case where Figure 33A and Figure 33BA chart of the effect in the case of the action control process shown. The upper graph shows the effect level (score) of the hair with respect to the elapsed days of use of the hair dryer 1. The lower graph shows the component administration increase / decrease rate (%) with respect to the elapsed days of use of the hair dryer 1. In Figure 34 , the elapsed days of use as the horizontal axis of the upper and lower graphs correspond to each other. Also, Figure 34 The case of user a and user b as different two users is exemplified.

[0199] As such, first, in Figure 33A and Figure 33B the action control process shown, each time the drying operation is performed, the component amount data after the appropriate adjustment is accumulated, and in the drying operation thereafter, the component is administered using the component amount data most appropriate at that point in time. Thus, as shown in the graphs of Figure 34 , for whichever user, as the number of days of use of the hair dryer 1 increases, the effect of the hair and the component administration increase / decrease rate become stable.

[0200] Also, the hair dryer 1 according to the present embodiment is provided with a photographing section 60b that photographs the hair. It can also be that the control section 80 has a hair characteristic recognition section 81 that classifies the hair characteristics based on the hair image obtained by the photographing section 60b, and the control section 80 causes the component generation section 40 to adjust the component amount per level of the hair characteristics classified by the hair characteristic recognition section 81.

[0201] In such a hair dryer 1, even if the user does not directly set the hair characteristics through the input section 71, the control section 80 can automatically classify the hair characteristics. Also, in the hair dryer 1 according to the present embodiment, by automatically classifying the hair characteristics as such, for example, the inappropriateness of the component amount due to the misrecognition of the user can be reduced.

[0202] Also, the hair dryer 1 according to the present embodiment can be provided with a wetness detection sensor 60a that measures the hair, as with the first embodiment. It can also be that the control section 80 has a wetness calculation section 86 that calculates wetness information related to the wetness of the hair based on the hair measurement value obtained from the wetness detection sensor 60a or the hair image obtained from the photographing section 60b. In the case where the control section 80 determines that the user is before washing the hair or the hair is not wet, the photographing section 60b photographs the hair to obtain the hair image, and the component amount is determined based on the obtained hair image.

[0203] According to such a hair dryer 1, the control section 80 can obtain the hair characteristics of the user from the hair image when the hair is in the usual state, and thus can set a more appropriate component amount to be administered.

[0204] Also, the hair dryer 1 according to the present embodiment includes a storage section 75 that stores information about the hair image obtained from the imaging section 60b. The control section 80 can display the change in the level of the hair characteristics on the display section 73 based on the information about the hair image stored in the storage section 75 and the instruction from the user.

[0205] Figure 35A And Figure 35B is a diagram showing an outline of a fifth example of an output screen displayed on the terminal display section 101 (or the display section 73). The output screen of the fifth example displays the change in the level of the hair characteristics of each user, and displays, as an example, a simplified diagram of the hairstyle of the front and back of the user and the curl level of each part of the hair. Figure 35A shows the state of the user's hair today. On the other hand, as an example, Figure 35B shows the state of the user's hair five months ago. The display section 73 (or the terminal display section 101) can present the daily change in the state of the hair to the user by displaying such an output screen.

[0206] (Third Embodiment)

[0207] The moisture amount sensor 60d can also be a moisture amount sensor that directly measures the moisture amount of the hair by contacting the hair of the user.

[0208] Figure 36 is a diagram showing an outline of the structure of the hair dryer 1 according to the third embodiment. The hair dryer 1 according to the present embodiment does not include the moisture detection sensor 60a and the illumination section 72 included in the hair dryer 1 according to the first embodiment. On the other hand, the hair dryer 1 according to the present embodiment includes the brush section 22 attached to the blowout port 10b and the moisture amount sensor 60d provided to the brush section 22. Here, the other structure of the hair dryer 1 is the same as that of the first embodiment (except for the control section 80 and the structure related to the control of the signal processing section 90 and the like), and the same reference numerals are attached thereto, and detailed description thereof is omitted.

[0209] In this case, the hair measurement value is the moisture amount of the hair. The moisture amount sensor 60d can measure the moisture amount of the hair during drying while the brush section 22 contacts the hair of the user. Also, the dryness estimation operation section 87 can estimate the degree of dryness based on the obtained moisture amount.

[0210] (Other Embodiments)

[0211] The hair care device according to the other embodiment of the present disclosure can also have a hair feature discriminating section, a substance component amount determining section, and a substance ejecting section. The hair feature discriminating section discriminates a hair feature of a user. The substance component amount determining section determines a component amount of a substance that acts on the hair of the user, in accordance with the hair feature discriminated by the hair feature discriminating section. The substance ejecting section ejects the substance toward the hair of the user in accordance with the component amount of the substance determined by the substance component amount determining section. Here, the hair feature discriminating section can replace the hair property recognizing section 81 in the embodiment, for example. The substance component amount determining section can replace the table generating section 82 in the embodiment, for example. In addition, the substance ejecting section can replace the component generating section 40 in the embodiment, for example.

[0212] In addition, the hair feature can also be a degree of curl of the hair, a degree of curling of the hair, a degree of softness of the hair, a degree of bristle of the hair, a degree of straightness of the hair, a degree of perm of the hair, a degree of thickness of the hair, a degree of volume of the hair, a degree of gloss of the hair, a degree of color of the hair, a degree of length of the hair, a degree of tension of the hair, a degree of elasticity of the hair, or a degree of damage of the hair.

[0213] The substance component amount determining section can determine a component amount of a substance generated by at least any one or more of the component generating sections. The ion component generating section is a component generating section that generates ions, and can correspond to the second electrostatic atomizing device 40b described in the first embodiment, for example. The acidic component generating section is a component generating section that generates an acidic component. The charged fine particle liquid component generating section is a component generating section that generates a charged fine particle liquid, and can correspond to the third electrostatic atomizing device 40c described in the first embodiment, for example. In addition, the charged fine particle liquid is a broad expression of the charged fine particle water described above.

[0214] The hair feature discriminating section can also have an imaging section that images a hairstyle of the user. The imaging section can replace the photographing section 60b in the second embodiment, for example.

[0215] On the other hand, the hair feature discriminating section can also have a living body sensing function section that senses living body information. Here, the living body information refers to information related to the body of the user, that is, the hair, the skin, or the like of the user, and refers to a moisture amount, a temperature of the hair, the skin, or the like, for example. The living body sensing function section can replace at least any one of the various sensors described in the above-described embodiments.

[0216] In addition, the hair feature discriminating section can also have a hair feature input section for the user to input a hair feature of the user. The hair feature input section can replace the input section 71 or the display section 73 having an input function in the embodiment, for example. In addition, the hair feature can also be a degree of curl of the hair, a degree of curling of the hair, a degree of softness of the hair, a degree of bristle of the hair, a degree of straightness of the hair, a degree of perm of the hair, a degree of thickness of the hair, a degree of volume of the hair, a degree of gloss of the hair, a degree of color of the hair, a degree of length of the hair, a degree of tension of the hair, a degree of elasticity of the hair, or a degree of damage of the hair.

[0217] The hair feature input section can also cause the user to input a hair feature relating to the entirety or a part of the user's hair.

[0218] On the other hand, the hair feature input section can also cause the user to make a selection input of at least any one or more of the degree of the curliness of the hair, the degree of the waviness of the hair, the degree of the softness of the hair, the degree of the stiffness of the hair, the degree of the straightness of the hair, the degree of the perming of the hair, the degree of the thickness of the hair, the degree of the volume of the hair, the degree of the gloss of the hair, the degree of the color of the hair, the degree of the length of the hair, the degree of the tension of the hair, the degree of the elasticity of the hair, and the degree of the damage of the hair.

[0219] In addition, the hair feature discrimination section can also have a hair feature level division section that horizontally divides the hair feature of the user using at least any one or more of the above-mentioned example degrees.

[0220] In addition, the hair feature discrimination section can also discriminate a hair feature relating to the entirety or a part of the user's hair.

[0221] Alternatively, the hair feature discrimination section can also have a hair feature level division section that horizontally divides a hair feature relating to the entirety or a part of the user's hair using at least any one or more of the above-mentioned example degrees.

[0222] The hair feature input section can also have a screen for input and output. The screen described herein can replace, for example, the display section 73 or the terminal display section 101 in the embodiments.

[0223] In addition, the hair care device according to the present embodiment can have a data transmission / reception section for transmitting and receiving data with the outside of the hair care device. The data transmission / reception section can replace, for example, the transmission / reception section 74 in the embodiments.

[0224] Also, the hair feature input section can be independent of the hair care device according to the present embodiment. The hair feature input section in this case can be, for example, the terminal display section 101 of the mobile terminal device 100 in the above-mentioned embodiments.

[0225] Furthermore, the above-mentioned embodiments are for illustrating the technology in the present disclosure, and various modifications, substitutions, additions, omissions, and the like can be made within the scope of the claims or the equivalent thereof.

[0226] Industrial Applicability

[0227] The present disclosure can be applied to all domestic or business hair care devices for drying the hair of a user or adjusting the hairstyle of a user.

[0228] REFERENCE NUMERALS

[0229] 1: hair dryer; 2: power cord; 3: housing; 3a: partition; 4: air supply flow path; 10: main body portion; 10a: suction port; 10b: discharge port; 10c: connecting portion; 10d: connecting shaft; 10e: branch path; 10f: component discharge port; 10g: front surface portion; 14: nozzle portion; 20: grip portion; 20a: housing; 22: brush portion; 30: heat application portion; 31: fan; 32: motor; 33: heating portion; 40: component generation portion; 40a: first electrostatic atomization device; 40b: second electrostatic atomization device; 40c: third electrostatic atomization device; 41a: atomizer; 41b: tank; 41c: pump; 41d: GND electrode; 41e: high-voltage circuit; 41f: pump drive circuit; 42a: discharge portion; 42b: GND electrode; 42c: high-voltage circuit; 43a: discharge portion; 43b: Peltier element; 43c: GND electrode; 43d: high-voltage circuit; 50: measurement portion; 60: wetness detection portion; 60a: wetness detection sensor; 60b: imaging portion; 60c: temperature sensor; 60d: moisture amount sensor; 61: room temperature sensor; 62: humidity sensor; 63: hair detection portion; 64: site detection portion; 71: input portion; 71a: hair bend input portion; 71b: hair curl input portion; 72: illumination portion; 73: display portion; 74: transmission / reception portion; 75: storage portion; 76: power switch; 80: control portion; 81: hair characteristic recognition portion; 82: table generation portion; 83: application amount calculation portion; 84: component amount control portion; 85: heat amount control portion; 86: wetness calculation portion; 87: dryness estimation calculation portion; 88: accumulation calculation portion; 90: signal processing portion; 91: site calculation portion; 92: initial position determination portion; 100: mobile terminal device; 101: terminal display portion; 101a: image; 101b: first touch region; 101c: second touch region; 101d: third touch region; 101e: first pie chart; 101f: second pie chart; 102: terminal imaging portion; 103: terminal communication portion.

Claims

1. A hair care apparatus comprising: a heat-imparting section that imparts heat to hair of a user; a component-generating section that generates a component that acts on the hair; and a control section that controls operation of the heat-imparting section and the component-generating section, the component-generating section being at least one of an ion-generating section that generates ions, an acidic component-generating section that generates an acidic component, and a charged fine particle water-generating section that generates charged fine particle water, the control section controlling a component amount of the component generated by the component-generating section based on a hair characteristic of the user, wherein the hair care apparatus further comprises a display section that displays at least an image of the hair, and the control section changes the component amount or a kind or level of the hair characteristic based on a whole or a part selected by the user in the image on the display section.

2. The hair care apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the hair characteristic is a curl or a wave of the hair.

3. The hair care apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a wetness detection sensor that measures the hair, the control section having: a dryness estimation operation section that estimates a dryness of the hair based on a hair measurement value obtained from the wetness detection sensor; and an amount-of-imparting operation section that adjusts the component amount based on the dryness estimated by the dryness estimation operation section.

4. The hair care apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a photographing section that photographs the hair, the control section having a hair characteristic identification section that classifies the hair characteristic based on a hair image obtained by the photographing section, the control section causing the component-generating section to adjust the component amount for each level of the hair characteristic classified by the hair characteristic identification section. wherein 5. The hair care apparatus according to claim 4, further comprising a wetness detection sensor that measures the hair, the control section having a wetness operation section that calculates wetness information related to wetness of the hair based on a hair measurement value obtained from the wetness detection sensor or the hair image obtained from the photographing section, the control section causing the photographing section to photograph the hair to obtain the hair image and deciding the component amount based on the obtained hair image, in a case where it is determined by the wetness operation section that the user is before washing the hair or the hair is not wet.

6. The hair care apparatus according to claim 5, the control section having: a dryness estimation operation section that estimates a dryness of the hair based on the hair measurement value or the hair image; and an amount-of-imparting operation section that adjusts the component amount based on the dryness estimated by the dryness estimation operation section.

7. The hair care apparatus according to claim 4, further comprising: a storage section that accumulates information related to the hair image obtained from the photographing section; and a display section that displays at least an image of the hair. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ The control section displays a change in the level of the hair characteristic on the display section based on the information stored in the storage section regarding the at least two or more hair images in accordance with an instruction from the user.

8. The hair care apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein a transmission / reception section that transmits and receives with a terminal communication section provided in a mobile terminal apparatus that is a communication device outside, when an image of the hair is displayed at least on a terminal display section provided in the mobile terminal apparatus, the transmission / reception section receives information regarding the entirety or a part selected by the user in the image on the terminal display section from the terminal communication section, the control section changes the amount of the component to an amount desired by the user based on the information regarding the entirety or the part of the image received by the transmission / reception section from the terminal communication section.

9. A hair care apparatus comprising: a heat-imparting section that imparts heat to hair of a user; a component-generating section that generates a component that acts on the hair; and a control section that controls operation of the heat-imparting section and the component-generating section, wherein the component-generating section is at least one of an ion-generating section that generates ions, an acidic component-generating section that generates an acidic component, and a charged fine particle water-generating section that generates charged fine particle water, the control section controls the amount of the component generated by the component-generating section based on a hair characteristic of the user, wherein the hair care apparatus further comprises a transmission / reception section that transmits and receives with a terminal communication section provided in a mobile terminal apparatus that is a communication device outside, when an image of the hair is displayed at least on a terminal display section provided in the mobile terminal apparatus, the transmission / reception section receives information regarding the entirety or a part selected by the user in the image on the terminal display section from the terminal communication section, the control section changes the amount of the component to an amount desired by the user based on the information regarding the entirety or the part of the image received by the transmission / reception section from the terminal communication section.

Images