Hair care device

Abstract

A hair dryer as a hair care device has a heat-imparting section (30), a component-generating section (40), a section detecting section (64), and a control section (80). The heat-imparting section (30) imparts heat to the user's hair. The component-generating section (40) generates a component that acts on the hair. The section detecting section (64) detects at least a part of the hair. The control section (80) estimates a section to which heat or the component is imparted based on an output of the section detecting section (64), and adjusts an amount of heat set to the heat-imparting section (30) or an amount of the component set to the component-generating section (40) for each section.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a hair care device. Background Technology

[0002] Previously, there were hair care devices such as hair dryers that not only dried the user's hair but also imparted ingredients effective for the user's hair. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a technology related to hair dryers that uses ions as an effective ingredient for hair and adjusts the amount of the ingredient based not only on the user's settings but also on the usage time.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-58484 Summary of the Invention

[0006] Hairstyles and hair types vary from user to user. Furthermore, the hair texture varies depending on the area of ​​hair affected. Therefore, even if the amount of ions, the active ingredient for hair, is adjusted as in the hair dryer disclosed in Patent Document 1, it is conceivable that it will not be effective depending on the area of ​​the user's hair. In other words, the hair dryer disclosed in Patent Document 1 may not achieve the desired hair effect for each area of ​​the hair.

[0007] This disclosure provides a hair care device that easily achieves the hair effect desired by the user.

[0008] One aspect of this disclosure relates to a hair care device comprising: a heat application unit that applies heat to a user's hair; a component generation unit that generates a component that acts on the hair; and a site detection unit that detects at least a portion of the hair. Additionally, one aspect of this disclosure also includes a control unit that estimates the site to which heat or component has been applied based on the output of the site detection unit, and adjusts the heat level set for the heat application unit or the component amount set for the component generation unit for each site.

[0009] According to this disclosure, a hair care device can be provided that easily achieves the hair effect desired by the user. Attached Figure Description

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

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

[0012] Figure 3AThis is a diagram showing the structure of a first electrostatic atomizing device, which is an example of a component generating device that can be used as a component generating section.

[0013] Figure 3B This is a diagram showing the structure of a second electrostatic atomizing device, which is an example of a component generating device that can be used as a component generating section.

[0014] Figure 3C This is a diagram showing the structure of a third electrostatic atomizing device, which is an example of a component generating device that can be used as a component generating section.

[0015] Figure 4A This diagram relates to an example of the first installation position of the wetting detection sensor and the illumination unit.

[0016] Figure 4B This diagram relates to an example of the second installation position of the wetting detection sensor and the illumination unit.

[0017] Figure 4C This diagram relates to an example of the third installation position of the wetting detection sensor and the illumination unit.

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

[0019] Figure 6A This is a flowchart illustrating the initialization operations for the part determination process.

[0020] Figure 6B This is a schematic diagram showing the initialization operations requested from the user.

[0021] Figure 7A This is a diagram showing the user having turned on the power to the hair dryer.

[0022] Figure 7B This diagram shows the state of the user having started the drying process.

[0023] Figure 8A This is a schematic diagram illustrating the movement of hair when airflow comes into contact with the ends of the hair.

[0024] Figure 8B This is a schematic diagram illustrating a scenario where the airflow does not come into contact with hair, etc.

[0025] Figure 9A This is a diagram illustrating the posture of a hair dryer during a drying operation, relative to the horizontal angle.

[0026] Figure 9B This diagram illustrates the left-right swing angle as a representation of the hair dryer's posture during the drying process.

[0027] Figure 10This is a diagram showing a variation of the information derived from the output of the part detection unit.

[0028] Figure 11 This is a timeline diagram illustrating an example of the relationship between cosmetic application amount and hair detection.

[0029] Figure 12 This is a timing diagram illustrating an example of the relationship between the amount of charged microparticles imparted and the location detection.

[0030] Figure 13 This is a timeline diagram illustrating an example of the relationship between the amount of cosmetic applied and the site of detection.

[0031] Figure 14 This is a timeline diagram illustrating an example of the relationship between the amount of two cosmetic products applied and the site of detection.

[0032] Figure 15 This is a timing diagram illustrating an example of the relationship between the amount of charged microparticles imparted and the detection of the permed section.

[0033] Figure 16 This is a timeline diagram illustrating an example of the relationship between airflow and location detection.

[0034] Figure 17A This is a diagram showing the first example of an input screen.

[0035] Figure 17B This is a diagram showing the second input screen, which is the first example of the input screen.

[0036] Figure 17C This is a diagram showing the third input screen, which is the first example of the input screen.

[0037] Figure 18A This is a first example of an output screen showing the intermediate drying point of the hair.

[0038] Figure 18B This is the first example of an output screen showing the time it takes for the hair roots to dry.

[0039] Figure 19 This is a diagram showing the second example of the output screen.

[0040] Figure 20A This is the third example of the output screen.

[0041] Figure 20B This is the third example of the output screen.

[0042] Figure 21 This is the fourth example of the output screen.

[0043] Figure 22AThis is a diagram showing the first input screen in a second example of the input screen.

[0044] Figure 22B This is a diagram showing the second input screen, which is a second example of an input screen.

[0045] Figure 23 This is a diagram showing a setting example where the component amount is changed according to the location of the hair.

[0046] Figure 24 It is a diagram illustrating the principle used to determine whether hair is wet.

[0047] Figure 25 It is a chart illustrating the criteria for determining whether hair is wet.

[0048] Figure 26 This is a schematic perspective view showing the structure of the hair dryer according to the second embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0049] The hair care apparatus according to embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, sometimes unnecessary details are omitted. For example, detailed descriptions of well-known matters or repetitive descriptions of substantially the same structures may be omitted. Furthermore, the drawings and the following description are provided to enable those skilled in the art to fully understand the present disclosure and are not intended to limit the subject matter of the claims.

[0050] (First Implementation)

[0051] Figure 1 This 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 includes a main body 10 that delivers warm air to the user and a handle 20 that is held by the user during use. Figure 2 This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the structure of the blower 1 obtained by cutting along the air delivery direction, including the main body 10 and the gripping part 20 in the interior.

[0052] The main body 10 has a housing 3 with an outer wall formed by joining multiple segmented parts. An airflow path 4 is formed inside the housing 3, extending from an intake port 10a at one end along its long side to an exhaust port 10b at the other end. For example... Figure 2 As shown, the main body 10 and the handle 20 are connected by a connecting part 10c in a manner that allows rotation about the connecting shaft 10d. For example, when the hair dryer 1 is not in use, the handle 20 is folded relative to the main body 10 in a manner that is approximately parallel to the axial direction of the main body 10 extending in the airflow direction. In the handle 20, the power cord 2 is led out from the end opposite to the connecting part 10c.

[0053] First, the hair dryer 1 includes a heat-applying section 30, a component generating section 40, and a measuring section 50 (see reference). Figure 5 ), input unit 71 and display unit 73.

[0054] The heat-applying section 30 applies heat to the user's hair. In this embodiment, the heat-applying section 30 is an air supply section that generates warm air to be emitted from the user's hair. The heat-applying section 30 includes, for example, a fan 31, a motor 32, and a heating section 33. The fan 31 is disposed on the upstream side of the air supply path 4 and is driven to rotate by the motor 32. When the fan 31 rotates, an airflow is formed that flows into the air supply path 4 from the outside through the suction port 10a and is discharged to the outside through the air supply path 4 from the nozzle 10b. The heating section 33 is disposed on the downstream side of the fan 31 and heats the airflow from the fan 31. When the heating section 33 is working, the airflow formed by the fan 31 is heated and warm air is blown out from the nozzle 10b. The heating section 33 may also be a heater formed by winding a strip-shaped and corrugated plate-shaped resistive element along the inner periphery of the housing 3.

[0055] The ingredient generation unit 40 generates ingredients that act on the user's hair. Here, ingredients that act on hair refer to so-called beauty ingredients that can effectively affect at least the user's hair quality. Examples of such ingredients include agents / organic substances, negative ions, metallic microparticles, or charged microparticle water. Agents / organic substances are, for example, moisturizing ingredients (humectants), repairing ingredients (repairing agents), coating ingredients (coating agents), or conditioning ingredients (conditioning agents). Moisturizing ingredients include, for example, 1,3-butanediol, glycerin, panthenol, ceramides, hyaluronic acid, honey, or polysaccharides. Repairing ingredients include, for example, hydrolyzed collagen, hydrolyzed keratin, amino acids, hair-protecting proteins, peptides, cholesterol, cationic surfactants, or organic acids. Coating ingredients include, for example, silicone, squalane, or oily ingredients. Conditioning ingredients include, for example, cationic surfactants, amino acids, peptides, panthenol, and ceramides. Additionally, charged microparticle water consists of charged nanoscale water particles containing OH free radicals.

[0056] Figures 3A-3C This is a schematic diagram of the structure of various component generation devices that can be used as the component generation unit 40. Figure 3AThis diagram illustrates the structure of a first electrostatic atomizing device 40a, an example of a spray device that uses an agent / organic substance as an active ingredient. The first electrostatic atomizing device 40a includes a sprayer 41a, a canister 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 section configured to hold a liquid, which is the agent / organic substance. The canister 41b is used to contain an aqueous solution containing, for example, a polymer, which is the agent / organic substance. The pump 41c is provided in a piping connecting the canister 41b to the sprayer 41a, and delivers the polymer aqueous solution contained in the canister 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 an ingredient quantity control unit 84 (see below) within a control unit 80. Figure 5 Control. When a high voltage is applied between the sprayer 41a and the GND electrode 41d, corona discharge occurs, and a spray containing polymers is generated through this discharge. Furthermore, the spray device that uses an agent / organic substance as the active ingredient is not limited to an electrostatic atomizing device such as the first electrostatic atomizing device 40a, but may also be an ultrasonic atomizing device, a centrifugal pump, etc.

[0057] Figure 3B This diagram shows the structure of a second electrostatic atomizing device 40b, an example of a component generating device that uses negative ions and metal microparticles as active ingredients. The second electrostatic atomizing device 40b includes a discharge section 42a, a GND electrode 42b, and a high-voltage circuit 42c. The high-voltage circuit 42c is controlled by a component quantity control section 84, similar to that of the first electrostatic atomizing device 40a. When a high voltage is applied between the discharge section 42a and the GND electrode 41d, for example, corona discharge occurs, and negative ions carrying a negative charge based on moisture in the air are generated through this discharge.

[0058] Figure 3C This diagram illustrates the structure of a third electrostatic atomizing device 40c, an example of a component generating apparatus that uses charged microparticle water as the active ingredient. The third electrostatic atomizing device 40c includes a discharge section 43a, a Peltier element 43b serving as a condenser section, a GND electrode 43c, and a high-voltage circuit 43d. The high-voltage circuit 43d is controlled by a component quantity control section 84, similar to that of the first electrostatic atomizing device 40a. When a high voltage is applied between the discharge section 43a and the GND electrode 43c, corona discharge occurs, and charged microparticle water based on moisture in the air is generated through this discharge.

[0059] For example, in the case where the component generation unit 40 in this embodiment is a third electrostatic atomizing device 40c, such as Figure 2As shown, a partition plate 3a is provided inside the outer casing 3 of the main body 10 to form a branch path 10e extending parallel to the airflow path 4. Airflow passing through the heating section 33 flows in the airflow path 4, while airflow not passing through the heating section 33 flows in the branch path 10e. Furthermore, a third electrostatic atomizing device 40c is provided within the branch path 10e. Additionally, a component spray outlet 10f is provided in a portion of the main body 10, for example, on the front surface 10g facing the hair H during the drying operation. The component spray outlet 10f communicates with the branch path 10e and sprays outwards the component generated by the component generating section 40. Furthermore, the component generating section 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, multiple component generating sections 40 can be provided depending on the given component.

[0060] Measurement Unit 50 (Reference) Figure 5 The measurement unit 50 measures or photographs the user's hair and sends the processed information to the control unit 80. In this embodiment, the measurement unit 50 is designed to measure the user's hair. In this case, the measurement unit 50 includes a wetting detection unit 60, an illumination unit 72, and a signal processing unit 90 (see reference 60). Figure 5 ).

[0061] The wetting detection unit 60 detects parameters that can be referenced to obtain information related to the wetting of the user's hair. In this embodiment, the wetting detection unit 60 is a wetting detection sensor 60a with at least the absorption wavelength of water (1450 nm, etc.) set as the hair measurement value. Specifically, the wetting detection sensor 60a may be a photodiode. The illumination unit 72 is a component paired with the wetting detection sensor 60a, which is, for example, a photodiode, and illuminates light with at least the absorption wavelength of water. Furthermore, the signal processing unit 90 will be described together with the matters related to the control unit 80 below.

[0062] Figures 4A to 4C This is a schematic diagram illustrating the relationship between the various installation positions of the wetting detection sensor 60a and the illumination unit 72. Regarding the various installation positions of the wetting detection sensor 60a and the illumination unit 72, Figure 1 and Figure 2 The situation shown is one example; specifically, consider... Figures 4A to 4C Examples as shown are provided. The illumination unit 72 is a light-irradiating unit, and in contrast, the wetting detection sensor 60a is a light-receiving unit for receiving light reflected by the user's hair H after being irradiated by the illumination unit 72. The wetting detection sensor 60a and the illumination unit 72 are disposed on the front surface portion 10g or mounted on the nozzle portion 14 of the nozzle outlet 10b (see reference). Figure 4B , Figure 4C ).

[0063] Figure 4A This diagram relates to a first example of the installation position of the wetting detection sensor 60a and the illumination unit 72. In this first installation example, there is one wetting detection sensor 60a and one illumination unit 72. The wetting detection sensor 60a is installed on a portion of the front surface portion 10g. The illumination unit 72 is installed on a portion of the front surface portion 10g opposite to the wetting detection sensor 60a, across the nozzle 10b. In this case, since the distance between the wetting detection sensor 60a and the illumination unit 72 is greater than or equal to the opening diameter of the nozzle 10b, the incident angle and reflection angle of the light are large.

[0064] Figure 4B This figure relates to a second example of the installation position of the wetting detection sensor 60a and the illumination unit 72. In this second installation example, there is one wetting detection sensor 60a and multiple illumination units 72. The wetting detection sensor 60a is installed on the nozzle portion 14 in a manner that is approximately at the center of the nozzle outlet 10b. For example, there are four illumination units 72, which are installed on the front surface portion 10g at equal intervals. In this case, since the wetting detection sensor 60a and the illumination units 72 are somewhat far apart, the incident angle and reflection angle of the light can be ensured to be of a certain magnitude, and the amount of light irradiation can be increased.

[0065] Figure 4C This figure relates to a third example of the installation position of the wetting detection sensor 60a and the illumination unit 72. In this third example, one wetting detection sensor 60a and one illumination unit 72 are each provided at the nozzle section 14. In this case, since the wetting detection sensor 60a and the illumination unit 72 are closer together, the incident angle and reflection angle of the light are smaller.

[0066] In this embodiment, as an example, let's assume it's based on... Figure 4B The second example shown is illustrated by including a wetting detection sensor 60a and an illumination unit 72.

[0067] Input section 71 is, for example, a button for allowing the user to input information related to the characteristics of the user's hair (hereinafter referred to as "hair characteristics"). Here, hair characteristics refer to at least one of the user's hairstyle, hair length, hair volume, and hair texture related to hair thickness or shine. Figure 1 In the example shown, the input unit 71 consists of three input buttons respectively provided on the housing 3: hair texture input 71a, hair length input 71b, and hair volume input 71c. Additionally, the input unit 71 may also include buttons for easily switching airflow, temperature, etc., according to the user's preferences.

[0068] The display unit 73 is a touch panel-type display screen installed on the housing 3, which functions as an input screen for user input or an output screen for displaying information to the user. Furthermore, the states when functioning as an input screen or an output screen will be described in detail below. Additionally, when the display unit 73 functions as an input screen, sometimes the input unit 71 is made unnecessary by having the display unit 73 perform the functions of the input unit 71.

[0069] In addition, such as Figure 2 As shown, the hair dryer 1 includes a room temperature sensor 61, a humidity sensor 62, a hair detection unit 63, and a body part detection unit 64.

[0070] The room temperature sensor 61 is used to measure the indoor temperature where the hair dryer 1 is used. The room temperature sensor 61 is located inside the housing 3. The output signal from the room temperature sensor 61 is sent to the control unit 80.

[0071] Humidity sensor 62 is used to measure the humidity in the room where the hair dryer 1 is used. Room temperature sensor 61 is disposed inside the housing 3. The output signal from humidity sensor 62 is sent to control unit 80.

[0072] The hair detection unit 63 detects whether the user has hair. The hair detection unit 63 is, for example, a laser rangefinder or a ToF (Time of Flight) camera, and is installed on a part of the front surface portion 10g. The output signal from the hair detection unit 63 is sent to the control unit 80.

[0073] The location detection unit 64 detects locations where heat is applied from the heat application unit 30 or where components are applied from the component generation unit 40. The location detection unit 64 is at least one of the distance measurement unit 64a, the attitude detection unit 64b, and the surface condition detection unit 64c. The output signal from the location detection unit 64 is sent to the control unit 80.

[0074] The distance measuring unit 64a is a distance sensor that measures the distance up to hair or the user's skin (face). When the location detection unit 64 is the distance measuring unit 64a, the distance measuring unit 64a is provided as a part of the front surface portion 10g. Here, in this embodiment, as the wetting detection unit 60, a wetting detection sensor 60a, such as a photodiode, is provided. Therefore, in this case, the distance measuring unit 64a, as the location detection unit 64, can also be... Figure 1 As shown, it is shared with the wetting detection sensor 60a. In this embodiment, we will describe how a certain photodiode functions as both the wetting detection sensor 60a and the distance measuring unit 64a. Alternatively, the distance measuring unit 64a can be provided independently of the wetting detection sensor 60a.

[0075] The posture detection unit 64b is a posture sensor that detects the position or posture of the hair dryer 1 along at least one axis. Furthermore, when the position detection unit 64 is the posture detection unit 64b, the posture detection unit 64b is not limited to being provided on the front surface portion 10g, but may also be provided inside the housing 3.

[0076] The surface condition detection unit 64c is, for example, a laser rangefinder or a ToF (Time of Flight) camera used to detect the surface condition of hair. Regarding the surface condition detection unit 64c, when the part detection unit 64 is the surface condition detection unit 64c, the surface condition detection unit 64c is provided as a part of the front surface portion 10g.

[0077] Figure 5 This is a block diagram showing the structure of the control unit 80 of the hair dryer 1. The control unit 80 controls the overall operation of the hair dryer 1, and controls the operation of the heat application unit 30 and the component generation unit 40 based at least on the hair measurement values ​​obtained from the measurement unit 50. The control unit 80 is, for example, provided inside the housing 20a of the handle unit 20. Furthermore, the control unit 80 has a computer system, which has a processor and a memory. Moreover, the computer system functions as the control unit 80 by executing the program stored in the memory through the processor. Here, the program to be executed by the processor is pre-recorded in the memory of the computer system, but the program can also be provided on a non-transient recording medium such as a memory card, or it can be provided through an electrical communication line such as the Internet.

[0078] First, the control unit 80 includes a hair characteristic recognition unit 81, a table generation unit 82, an amount calculation unit 83, a component amount control unit 84, and a heat control unit 85. The hair characteristic recognition unit 81, the table generation unit 82, the amount calculation unit 83, the component amount control unit 84, and the heat control unit 85 are modules used to determine the amount of component and heat applied based on the user's hair characteristics.

[0079] The hair characteristic recognition unit 81 classifies the user's hair characteristics based on the hair measurement values ​​obtained from the measurement unit 50.

[0080] The table generation unit 82 sets the component amounts of the components generated by the component generation unit 40 and the heat applied from the heat application unit 30, and manages these settings as a table. In the table generation unit 82, the component amounts and heat are set for each hair characteristic classified by the hair characteristic recognition unit 81.

[0081] The amount of component applied by the component generation unit 40 to the hair or the amount of heat applied by the heat application unit 30 to the hair, is calculated based on the component amount or heat amount set by the table generation unit 82. In this embodiment, the amount of component applied by the component generation unit 83 can perform the following two calculations. First, the amount of component applied by the component generation unit 83 is calculated based on the overall hair characteristics of the hair classified by the hair characteristic recognition unit 81 and the component amount set by the table generation unit 82, according to the user. Second, the amount of component applied by the component generation unit 83 is calculated based on the hair characteristics of each part of the hair classified by the hair characteristic recognition unit 81 and the component amount set by the table generation unit 82, according to the part of the hair.

[0082] The component quantity control unit 84 controls the operation of the component generation unit 40 based on the component assignment amount sent from the assignment amount calculation unit 83, that is, controls the component quantity of the component generated by the component generation unit 40.

[0083] The heat control unit 85 controls the operation of the heat application unit 30 based on the heat application amount sent from the application amount calculation unit 83, that is, controls the heat applied from the heat application unit 30.

[0084] In addition, the control unit 80 includes a wetting calculation unit 86 and a drying estimation calculation unit 87. The wetting calculation unit 86 and the drying estimation calculation unit 87 are modules used to reflect the dryness of the user's hair in terms of component application amount and heat application amount.

[0085] The wetting calculation unit 86 calculates wetting information related to the wetting of the user's hair based on the hair measurement values ​​obtained from the measurement unit 50. Here, for example, if the wetting detection unit 60 in the measurement unit 50 is a wetting detection sensor 60a, the wetting information is the absorbance calculated based on the signal intensity from the wetting detection sensor 60a.

[0086] The dryness estimation calculation unit 87 estimates the dryness of the user's hair based on the wetting information calculated by the wetting calculation unit 86. When the wetting information is absorbance, the dryness estimation calculation unit 87 estimates the dryness based on changes in absorbance. In the dryness estimation calculation unit 87, changes in absorbance are considered, for example, by appropriately referencing the cumulative time of applying ingredients and heat to the hair (time subtraction), the cumulative time of the hair being in a floating state (time addition), or the cumulative time of applying ingredients and heat to the skin (face) (time addition). The dryness estimated by the dryness estimation calculation unit 87 is reflected by the application amount calculation unit 83 to the ingredient application amount in the ingredient amount control unit 84 or the heat application amount in the heat control unit 85. In other words, the ingredient application amount or heat application amount is corrected according to the dryness reflecting various cumulative times.

[0087] In addition, the control unit 80 includes a location calculation unit 91, an initial position determination unit 92, and an accumulation calculation unit 88. The location calculation unit 91, the initial position determination unit 92, and the accumulation calculation unit 88 are modules used to determine the part of the user's hair that has been given components and heat.

[0088] The part calculation unit 91 estimates the part of hair or skin that is given heat from the heat application unit 30 or a component from the component generation unit 40 based on the output from the part detection unit 64 and the initial position determined by the initial position determination unit 92.

[0089] The initial position determination unit 92 determines the initial position of the blower 1 and sends it to the part calculation unit 91. Furthermore, the initial position determination process performed by the initial position determination unit 92 will be described in detail below.

[0090] The cumulative calculation unit 88 calculates the cumulative amount of heat applied by the heat application unit 30 (cumulative heat) or the cumulative amount of components applied by the component generation unit 40 (cumulative component amount) for each part estimated by the part calculation unit 91. In this case, the heat control unit 85 adjusts the heat application unit 30 based on the cumulative heat calculated by the cumulative calculation unit 88. Specifically, the heat control unit 85 uses data related to the cumulative heat calculated by the cumulative calculation unit 88 to correct the amount of heat applied and controls the operation of the heat application unit 30. On the other hand, the component amount control unit 84 adjusts the component amount of the component generation unit 40 based on the cumulative component amount calculated by the cumulative calculation unit 88. Specifically, the component amount control unit 84 uses data related to the cumulative component amount calculated by the cumulative calculation unit 88 to correct the amount of component applied and controls the operation of the component generation unit 40.

[0091] 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.

[0092] In addition, such as Figure 2As shown, the hair dryer 1 includes a power switch 76 and an initialization switch 77. The power switch 76 and initialization switch 77 are, 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 change the airflow, etc., by the heat-applying unit 30. The initialization switch 77 is used to initialize the location determination process of the control unit 80 during the drying operation, which determines the location of the user's hair.

[0093] Furthermore, the hair dryer 1 may also include a transmitting / receiving unit 74 and a storage unit 75.

[0094] 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.

[0095] 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.

[0096] Next, the operation of hair dryer 1 will be explained.

[0097] As a basic operation of the hair dryer 1, when the user holds the handle 20 and operates the power switch 76 to turn on the power, the heating unit 30 operates. Specifically, the motor 32 is driven by power supply to rotate the fan 31, thereby drawing air into the airflow path 4 from the suction port 10a. Furthermore, the heating unit 33 heats up, thereby heating the air drawn from the fan 31. The heated air becomes warm air and is ejected from the nozzle 10b. Additionally, the user appropriately operates the input unit 71, thereby causing the hair dryer 1 to cause the ingredient generating unit 40 to generate ingredients effective for hair, and ejecting these ingredients from the ingredient spray nozzle 10f.

[0098] Furthermore, the hair dryer 1 automatically optimizes the amount of ingredients applied based on the location of the user's hair. The optimization of this ingredient application will be explained in detail below.

[0099] First, let me explain the process by which the control unit 80 determines the location of the user's hair during the drying operation.

[0100] Figure 6A and Figure 6B This diagram illustrates the initialization operations performed before the location determination process. In this example, the location detection unit 64 used in the location determination process is at least related to... Figure 4B The distance measuring unit 64a is shared by the wettability detection sensor 60a shown.

[0101] Figure 6A This is a flowchart illustrating the initialization operation for the part determination process. When the user wants to perform a part application operation (drying operation) that automatically optimizes the amount of ingredient applied according to the part of the hair, firstly, the power switch 76 is turned on, and the power to the hair dryer 1 is connected (step S101). Next, the user aligns their gaze with the distance measuring unit 64a (step S102).

[0102] Figure 6B This is a schematic diagram illustrating the initial operation requested from the user in step S102. The user positions the front of the hair dryer 1 in front of themselves and directs their line of sight U. I Align the distance measuring unit 64a on the horizontal plane.

[0103] Next, the user makes U-shaped eye movements. I With the distance measuring unit 64a aligned, the initialization switch 77 is turned on (step S103).

[0104] Next, the control unit 80 initializes the location detection unit 64 (step S104). In this description, the location detection unit 64 is at least the distance measuring unit 64a; therefore, as part of the initialization of the distance measuring unit 64a, the control unit 80 determines the distance from the distance measuring unit 64a to the line of sight U. I The distance is measured up to this point. On the other hand, in addition to the distance measuring unit 64a, the position detection unit 64b may also exist, for example. In this case, the initialization of the position detection unit 64b may be performed (step S105) by having the position detection unit 64b measure the position of the hair dryer 1, either after step S104 or simultaneously with step S104. During the initialization of the position detection unit 64b, the initial position of the position detection unit 64b is determined. Based on the end of step S104 or step S105, the initialization operation ends.

[0105] Next, the principle of determining the location of hair in the location determination process will be explained.

[0106] Figure 7A and Figure 7BThis is a summary diagram illustrating the state from when the user turns on the power of the hair dryer 1 until the drying operation begins. Figure 7A This diagram shows the user having turned on the power to the hair dryer 1. Figure 7A , Figure 7B And the following Figure 8A , Figure 8B The solid lines with arrows in the diagram represent light emitted from the multiple illumination units 72. At this time, since the user is looking at the hair dryer 1 while operating the power switch 76, the light emitted from the illumination units 72 is not reflected at any point.

[0107] Figure 7B This diagram illustrates the drying process when a user begins using hair dryer 1 to dry their hair. When the user directs the airflow through the nozzle 10b of hair dryer 1 (see reference...) Figure 1 and Figure 2 When the light is directed toward its own hair, the light emitted from the illumination unit 72 is reflected by the hair and skin (face), and the distance measuring unit 64a detects the reflected light. Figure 7B And below Figure 8A The dashed lines with arrows in the image represent reflected light from hair and skin.

[0108] Figure 8A and Figure 8B This is a schematic diagram illustrating the movement of hair during the drying process. Figure 8A This is a schematic diagram showing the movement of hair when air from a hair dryer 1 comes into contact with the ends of the user's hair. When the air comes into contact with the ends of the hair, the hair moves more than when it comes into contact with the middle of the hair. Similarly, when the air comes into contact with the middle of the hair, the hair moves more than when it comes into contact with the roots of the hair. In other words, if we compare the ends, middle, and roots of the hair, the case where the air comes into contact with the roots is the case where the hair moves the least.

[0109] Figure 8B This is a schematic diagram illustrating a situation where the airflow from the hair dryer 1 does not contact the user's hair because the direction of the nozzle 10b is deviated from the user's hair and skin. In this case, the user's hair does not move. Furthermore, since the light emitted from the illumination unit 72 is not reflected at any point, the distance measuring unit 64a cannot detect the reflected light.

[0110] Figure 9A and Figure 9B This is a schematic diagram illustrating the posture of the hair dryer 1 during a drying operation. Figure 9A It shows an angle θ relative to the horizontal. h The posture of the hair dryer 1. In Figure 6AIn step S105 of the initialization operation shown, the initial posture of the hair dryer 1 in this case is set to be at an angle θ relative to the horizontal. h It was set at approximately 0°.

[0111] Figure 9B The distance measuring unit 64a is shown in its initial position facing the user's line of sight on the horizontal plane at an angle θ. LR The posture of the hairdryer 1, swinging left and right. Figure 6A In step S105 of the initialization operation shown, the initial posture of the hair dryer 1 in this case is set to a left-right swing angle θ. LR It was set at approximately 0°.

[0112] Figure 10 This is a graph showing an example of variations in information derived from the output of the part detection unit 64. The graph above shows the angle θ relative to the horizontal relative to the drying time (s). h (°) represents the orientation of the hair dryer 1. The diagram shows the left-right swing angle θ relative to the drying time (s). LR (°) is used as the orientation of the hair dryer 1. The figure below shows the distance (mm) from the distance measuring unit 64a to the hair relative to the drying time (s). Figure 10 In the diagrams above, in the middle, and in the bottom, the drying times correspond to each other on the horizontal axis. Additionally, in the following diagrams, the drying time refers to the time required for the blower 1 to perform the drying action.

[0113] First, let's assume that the part detection unit 64 is the posture detection unit 64b. In this case, if we refer to... Figure 10 The above diagram shows the angle θ relative to the horizontal during a period after the drying action of hair dryer 1 begins. h The angle is not 0°, so the position of hair dryer 1 is unstable. Furthermore, in... Figure 10 In the example above, the period referred to herein is the time from the start of the drying action until 20 seconds have elapsed. When the position of the hair dryer 1 is unstable, it can be estimated that the nozzle 10b is not pointing towards the user's hair, and therefore it can be estimated that the user is not performing a drying operation.

[0114] Furthermore, in Figure 10 In the example above, 20 seconds after the drying action begins, the angle θ relative to the horizontal... h With the hair dryer 1 fixed at 0°, its position is stable. When the hair dryer 1 is fixed in this position, it can be estimated that the nozzle 10b is facing the user's hair. Furthermore, by referring to the description below... Figure 10The middle or lower image shows the time estimating that the user is performing a drying operation, from 20 seconds after the start of the drying action until a further 70 seconds have passed.

[0115] Therefore, when the part detection unit 64 is the posture detection unit 64b, after the drying operation of the blower 1 begins, the part calculation unit 91 calculates the angle θ relative to the horizontal within a specified time based on the output of the posture detection unit 64b. h The location calculation unit 91 determines that the user is performing a drying operation if the change is smaller than a predetermined reference value. Conversely, if the change is larger than a predetermined reference value, the location calculation unit 91 determines that the user is not performing a drying operation. Here, the reference value refers to a quantity used to determine whether the user is performing a drying operation, and can be arbitrarily set. For example, the angle θ here... h The reference value can also be set to a range of -5° to +5°. That is, during the user's operation of the hair dryer 1, if the angle θ... h If the variation is within the range of -5° to +5°, then due to the angle θ h The change in angle θ is small, so the part calculation unit 91 can determine that the drying operation is in progress. On the other hand, during the user's operation of the hair dryer 1, the angle θ h When the variation exceeds the range of -5° to +5°, due to the angle θ h The amount of variation is large, so the part calculation unit 91 can determine that no drying operation has been performed.

[0116] Second, assuming, as described above, that the part detection unit 64 is the posture detection unit 64b. In this case, if referring to... Figure 10 The middle diagram shows the left-right swing angle θ during a period after the drying action of hair dryer 1 begins. LR Approximately 0°. Furthermore, in Figure 10 In the example of the diagram, the period referred to here means the time from the start of the drying action until 20 seconds have elapsed. At the swing angle θ LR When it is 0°, regardless of the angle θ relative to the horizontal. h Regardless of the value, it can be estimated as the front of the nozzle 10b facing the user.

[0117] Next, in Figure 10 In the example in the middle diagram, the swing angle θ is from 20 seconds after the start of the drying action to 40 seconds after the start of the drying action. LR Located in the positive region. At the swing angle θ LRWhen in the positive domain, the hair dryer 1 swings to the right, which can be estimated so that the nozzle 10b faces the right side of the user's hair, skin (face). On the other hand, from 40 seconds after the start of the drying action until 60 seconds after the start of the drying action, the swing angle θ... LR Located in the negative domain. At the swing angle θ LR When in the negative domain, the hair dryer 1 swings to the left, which can be estimated as the nozzle 10b facing the left side of the user's hair, skin (face).

[0118] Furthermore, in Figure 10 In the example in the middle diagram, after 60 seconds from the start of the drying action, the swing angle θ LR Returning to the positive domain, 70 seconds after the start of the drying motion, the swing angle θ LR Fixed at 30°. In this case, the hair dryer 1 swings to the right, so that the nozzle 10b is directed toward the right side of the user's hair, skin (face). After 70 seconds from the start of the drying action, it can be estimated that the user has not performed the drying operation.

[0119] Therefore, when the part detection unit 64 is the posture detection unit 64b, after the drying operation of the blower 1 begins, the part calculation unit 91 calculates the left and right swing angle θ within a specified time based on the output of the posture detection unit 64b. LR The amount of variation. Furthermore, at the swing angle θ LR When the variation is approximately fixed at 0°, the part calculation unit 91 can determine that the nozzle 10b is generally facing forward and the user has not performed a drying operation. Additionally, at the swing angle θ... LR When the location is within the positive domain and continuously changing, the location calculation unit 91 can determine that the nozzle 10b is facing the right side of the user's hair, skin (face) and that the user is performing a drying operation. On the other hand, at the swing angle θ LR When the location is in the negative domain and continuously changing, the location calculation unit 91 can determine that the nozzle 10b is facing the left side of the user's hair, skin (face) and that the user is performing a drying operation. Furthermore, at the swing angle θ... LR When the angle is fixed at a value other than 0°, the part calculation unit 91 can determine that the user is performing a drying operation.

[0120] Third, let's assume the location detection unit 64 is either the distance measuring unit 64a or the surface condition detection unit 64c. Below, as an example, we will explain if the location detection unit 64 is the distance measuring unit 64a, but the same applies if the location detection unit 64 is the surface condition detection unit 64c. Furthermore, in Figure 6AIn step S104 of the initialization operation shown, the distance from the distance measuring unit 64a to the line of sight UI at the initial position of the distance measuring unit 64a is determined. In this case, if referring to... Figure 10 In the diagram below, during the initial drying cycle of the hair dryer 1, the user moves the hair dryer 1 closer to the hair side, thus the distance from the distance measuring unit 64a to the hair shortens at a roughly constant speed. Furthermore, in Figure 10 In the example below, the period referred to herein is the time from the start of the drying action until 20 seconds have elapsed. During the period when the hair dryer 1 is approaching the hair, the nozzle 10b will not always be directed towards the user's hair, thus it can be estimated that the user is not performing a drying operation.

[0121] Next, in Figure 10 In the example shown in the diagram below, the distance from the distance measuring unit 64a to the hair varies slightly from 20 seconds after the start of the drying operation to 70 seconds after the start of the drying operation. This is because, as... Figure 8A As shown, the airflow from the hair dryer 1 comes into contact with the hair, causing it to flutter and thus its position is unstable. In other words, when the position of the hair is unstable like this, it can be estimated that the user is performing a drying operation.

[0122] Furthermore, in Figure 10 In the example shown in the diagram below, after 70 seconds from the start of the drying operation, the distance from the distance measuring unit 64a to the hair remains unchanged for a relatively long period. This is because the user temporarily stops the airflow from the hair dryer 1 from contacting the hair, thus preventing the hair from moving. Furthermore, in other words, this state of the airflow from the hair dryer 1 not contacting the hair is due to the user intentionally directing the airflow from the hair dryer 1 towards the atmosphere. At this point, if we also consider... Figure 10 The relationship between the top and middle diagrams is as follows: Figure 8B As shown, although the drying action of the hair dryer 1 continues, the airflow from the hair dryer 1 does not actually help dry the hair, so it can be estimated that the user did not perform the drying operation.

[0123] Therefore, when the location detection unit 64 is a distance measuring unit 64a, after the drying operation of the hair dryer 1 begins, the location calculation unit 91 calculates the change in the output of the distance measuring unit 64a within a specified time. Then, the location calculation unit 91 determines the location to which the airflow from the hair dryer 1 is directed based on the magnitude of the change. For example, if the change is large within the specified time, it can be assumed that the hair is moving significantly, and therefore it can be estimated that the airflow from the hair dryer 1 contacts the tip of the user's hair. Similarly, if the change is moderate within the specified time, it can be estimated that the airflow from the hair dryer 1 contacts the middle of the user's hair. Furthermore, if the change is small within the specified time, it can be assumed that the hair is moving slightly, and therefore it can be estimated that the airflow from the hair dryer 1 contacts the root of the user's hair.

[0124] Up to this point, the process of determining the location of the user's hair during the drying operation by the control unit 80 has been explained. However, the location contacted by the airflow from the hair dryer 1 is the same as the location where the component is applied from the hair dryer 1. In other words, the control unit 80 automatically optimizes the amount of component applied according to the location of the user's hair, corresponding to the example of component application amount described below.

[0125] Next, an example will be given of setting the drying time as a time series, which is related to the components supplied by the component generation section 40 or the heat supplied by the heat supply section 30.

[0126] Figure 11 This is a time-series graph showing the relationship between the amount of cosmetic applied and the detection of hair on the user's skin. The upper graph shows the amount of cosmetic applied (mg) relative to drying time (s). Hereafter, the cosmetic will be referred to as an agent / organic substance, as a general term for the various ingredients exemplified above. As an example, the amount applied when applying the cosmetic is fixed at 4 mg. The lower graph shows the presence or absence of hair detection relative to drying time (s). Figure 11 In the diagram, the drying time corresponds to the horizontal axis of the upper and lower graphs. The control unit 80 determines the presence or absence of hair, for example, based on the output signal of the hair detection unit 63. Here, the presence of hair means that the airflow from the hair dryer 1 comes into contact with the user's hair. Conversely, the absence of hair means that the airflow from the hair dryer 1 does not come into contact with the user's hair. That is, as... Figure 11 As shown, the control unit 80 can also cause the ingredient generation unit 40 to apply the cosmetic only if it determines that hair is present.

[0127] Figure 12This is a time-series diagram illustrating an example of the relationship between the amount of charged microparticles administered and the location detection of the user's hair. The upper graph shows the amount of charged microparticles administered (mg) relative to drying time (s). The lower graph shows the location detection of the hair relative to drying time (s). Figure 12 In the diagram, the drying time corresponds to the horizontal axis of the upper and lower graphs. The control unit 80 determines, for example, the location contacted by the charged microparticle water emitted from the blower 1 based on the output signal of the location detection unit 64. Here, as... Figure 12 As shown, during periods when the control unit 80 determines that no hair is present, it prevents the component generating unit 40 from generating charged microparticle water. On the other hand, during the period when the control unit 80 blows air onto the roots of the hair to dry them, it causes the component generating unit 40 to apply, for example, 2 mg of charged microparticle water containing charged microparticles. Furthermore, during the period when the control unit 80 blows air onto the middle of the hair to dry them, it causes the component generating unit 40 to apply, for example, 3 mg of charged microparticle water containing charged microparticles. And, during the period when the control unit 80 blows air onto the ends of the hair to dry them, it causes the component generating unit 40 to apply, for example, 4 mg of charged microparticle water containing charged microparticles. In other words, the control unit 80 can reduce the amount of charged microparticle water applied to the roots of the hair and increase the amount applied to the ends of the hair.

[0128] Figure 13 This is a time-series diagram illustrating an example of the relationship between the amount of cosmetic applied and the location of hair follicle detection on a user. The upper graph shows the amount of cosmetic applied (mg) relative to drying time (s). The lower graph shows the location of hair follicle detection relative to drying time (s). Figure 13 In the diagram, the drying time corresponds to the horizontal axis of the upper and lower graphs. The control unit 80, for example, determines the area contacted by the cosmetic dispensed from the hair dryer 1 based on the output signal of the area detection unit 64. Here, as... Figure 13 As shown, when the control unit 80 determines that no hair is present, it prevents the ingredient generating unit 40 from generating cosmetics. On the other hand, when the control unit 80 dries the roots of the hair by blowing air, it applies, for example, 2 mg of cosmetics to the ingredient generating unit 40. Furthermore, when the control unit 80 dries the middle of the hair by blowing air, it applies, for example, 3 mg of cosmetics to the ingredient generating unit 40. And, when the control unit 80 dries the ends of the hair by blowing air, it applies, for example, 4 mg of cosmetics to the ingredient generating unit 40. In other words, the control unit 80 can reduce the amount of cosmetics applied to the roots of the hair and increase the amount applied to the ends of the hair.

[0129] Figure 14This is a time-series diagram illustrating an example of the relationship between the dosage of two cosmetics, A and B, and the location of hair samples taken from a user. The top diagram shows the dosage (mg) of cosmetic A relative to drying time (s). The middle diagram shows the dosage (mg) of cosmetic B relative to drying time (s). Cosmetics A and B are different ingredients. Cosmetics A is an ingredient that works particularly effectively on the hair roots. Cosmetics B is an ingredient that works particularly effectively on the hair tips. The bottom diagram shows the location of hair samples taken relative to drying time (s). Figure 14 In the diagram, the drying time corresponds to the horizontal axis of the upper, middle, and lower graphs. The control unit 80, for example, determines the area contacted by cosmetic A or cosmetic B emitted from the blower 1 based on the output signal of the area detection unit 64. Here, as... Figure 14 As shown, during periods when hair is determined to be absent, the control unit 80 prevents the ingredient generating unit 40 from generating either cosmetic A or cosmetic B. On the other hand, during the period of drying the hair roots by blowing air, the control unit 80 applies only, for example, 4 mg of cosmetic A to the ingredient generating unit 40. Furthermore, during the period of drying the hair midsection by blowing air, the control unit 80 applies, for example, 2 mg of cosmetic A and 2 mg of cosmetic B to the ingredient generating unit 40. And, during the period of drying the hair ends by blowing air, the control unit 80 applies, for example, 4 mg of cosmetic B to the ingredient generating unit 40. In other words, it is also possible for the control unit 80 to specifically apply cosmetic A, which is effective for the hair roots, to the hair roots, and cosmetic B, which is effective for the hair ends, to the hair ends.

[0130] Figure 15 This is a timing diagram illustrating an example of the relationship between the amount of charged microparticles applied and the detection of the permed section when the user's hairstyle is partially permed. The upper diagram shows the amount of charged microparticles applied (mg) relative to drying time (s). Here, as an example, the amount of charged microparticles applied when applying water is fixed at 4 mg. The lower diagram shows the permed or non-permed section as a result of hair detection relative to drying time (s). Figure 15 In the diagram, the drying time corresponds to the horizontal axis in the upper and lower graphs. The control unit 80, for example, determines whether the area of ​​hair being air-blown is the permed or non-permed section based on the output signal of the wetting detection unit 60. Figure 15 As shown, the control unit 80 can also supply charged microparticle water to the component generation unit 40 only when it determines that the part of the hair being blown is not a permed part. As a result, the hair dryer 1 can prevent the straightening of the permed part caused by moisture in advance.

[0131] Figure 16This is a time-series diagram illustrating an example of the relationship between airflow and the location detection of a user's hair. The diagram above shows airflow (m³) relative to drying time (s). 3 / s). The figure below shows the location detection of hair relative to drying time (s). Figure 16 In the diagram, the drying time corresponds to the horizontal axis of the upper and lower graphs. The control unit 80 determines, for example, the area touched by the airflow from the blower 1 based on the output signal of the area detection unit 64. Here, as... Figure 16 As shown, during the period when the control unit 80 determines that no hair is present, the heat-applying unit 30 applies, for example, 2 (m) heat. 3 The airflow is delivered at a rate of / s. On the other hand, while the control unit 80 delivers air to the roots of the hair to dry it, the heat-applying unit 30 applies an airflow of, for example, 10 (m²). 3 Airflow of 8 (m³ / s) is supplied. Additionally, during the drying process of the hair, the control unit 80 directs the heat transfer unit 30 to a flow rate of, for example, 8 (m³ / s). 3 Airflow is supplied at a rate of / s. Furthermore, during the process of supplying air to the ends of the hair to dry it, the control unit 80 causes the heat-applying unit 30 to apply an airflow of, for example, 6 (m²). 3 The airflow is supplied at a rate of / s. In other words, the control unit 80 can also increase the airflow towards the root side of the hair and decrease the airflow towards the tip side of the hair. In addition, the control unit 80 can also stop the heat supply unit 30 from supplying air during periods when it is determined that there is no hair.

[0132] Next, the input screen for allowing the user to input information and the output screen for displaying information to the user will be described. In this embodiment, a display unit 73 is provided on the outer casing 3 of the main body 10. Therefore, the input screen and the output screen can also be displayed on the display unit 73. On the other hand, if the hair dryer 1 is equipped with a transmission / reception unit 74 for sending and receiving various information with the mobile terminal device 100, the input screen and the output screen can be displayed on the terminal display unit 101 of the mobile terminal device 100 instead of the display unit 73. That is, if the hair dryer 1 is equipped with a transmission / reception unit 74, the display unit 73 may not be required. In the following description, the case where the input screen and the output screen are displayed on the terminal display unit 101 of the mobile terminal device 100 will be illustrated.

[0133] Figures 17A-17C This is a schematic diagram showing a first example of an input screen displayed on the terminal display unit 101 (or display unit 73). Figure 17A The first input screen related to the first 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 obtained by dividing it in the vertical and horizontal directions. A simplified diagram of the user's back hairstyle is also displayed in the first input screen. Figure 17BThe second input screen of the first example is shown. The image 101a displayed in the second input screen is a simplified diagram of the user's hairstyle from the side, and is a segmented image obtained by segmenting in the front-to-back direction. Figure 17C The third input screen of the first example is shown. In the third input screen, horizontal adjustment screens for users to change the settings of certain items are displayed in each area of ​​the split screen shown in the first and second input screens.

[0134] Figure 18A and Figure 18B This is a schematic diagram showing a first example of an output screen displayed on the terminal display unit 101 (or display unit 73). The first example of the output screen displays various states in real time related to the period during which the hair dryer 1 dries the hair or applies ingredients to the hair. Figure 18A It is the output screen at the midpoint of the hair drying process. Figure 18B This is the output screen showing the time it takes for the hair roots to dry. The first example output screen displays items such as the part of the hair currently drying, the temperature of the drying part (the temperature of the part being blow-dried), the moisture content of the hair, and the amount of added components. In this example, the components are displayed as the amounts of charged microparticle water and negative ions. Figure 18A and Figure 18B As shown, a simplified diagram of the hair dryer can be displayed to visually indicate the area where the hair is drying. Similarly, the amount of water and other components can be visually indicated to the user by displaying not only numerical values ​​but also, for example, pie charts.

[0135] Figure 19 This is a schematic diagram showing a second example of the output screen displayed on the terminal display unit 101 (or display unit 73). The output screen in this second example displays various states related to the hair drying process after the hair dryer 1 has dried at least a portion of the hair or applied components to at least a portion of the hair. For example... Figure 19 As shown, based on the user's use of hair dryer 1, the amount of ingredients effective for the user's hair can also be displayed. In this example, the amounts of charged microparticle water and negative ions are displayed.

[0136] Figure 20A and Figure 20BThis is a schematic diagram showing a third example of an output screen displayed on the terminal display unit 101 (or display unit 73). Similar to the second example, the third example's output screen displays various states non-real-time. Furthermore, the third example's output screen displays the composition of each part of the user's hair, and displays the hair part and the composition of each part in a manner that the user can change. In the third example's output screen, a simplified diagram of the user's hair marked with three touch areas is first displayed. The first touch area 101b corresponds to the root of the hair. The second touch area 101c corresponds to the middle part of the hair. The third touch area 101d corresponds to the tip of the hair. In addition to numerical values, the composition at the current time point is also displayed in the third example's output screen using, for example, pie charts. For example, the first pie chart 101e shows the composition of charged microparticle water. The second pie chart 101f shows the composition of negative ions. As an example, Figure 20A This shows the user selecting the middle position as the area of ​​hair whose composition they want to change through subsequent actions of the hair dryer 1. In this case, the user can select the middle position by touching the second touch area 101c in the third output screen.

[0137] As an example, Figure 20B This indicates that the user has entered a new ingredient amount when they want to change the ingredient amount through subsequent actions of the hair dryer 1. The user can set the desired ingredient amount by touching the first pie chart 101e and the second pie chart 101f on the third output screen while changing the displayed values.

[0138] Figure 21 This is a schematic diagram showing a fourth example of an output screen displayed on the terminal display unit 101 (or display unit 73). Similar to the third example, the fourth example of the output screen displays various states non-real-time. Figure 20A In the output screen of the third example shown, when any of the first touch area 101b, the second touch area 101c, and the third touch area 101d is touched, the component amount of the corresponding part 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 in which the user should apply heat or components using the hair dryer 1 is shown numerically. By moving the hair dryer 1 in the order of the numbers labeled on the first touch area 101b, the second touch area 101c, and the third touch area 101d, the user can efficiently apply the desired components.

[0139] 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.

[0140] 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.

[0141] Next, it will be explained how the control unit 80 estimates the degree of dryness of the hair when drying the user's hair.

[0142] Figure 24 This is a diagram illustrating several principles that can be used to determine whether hair is wet or dry. First, in this embodiment, the dryness of the hair is estimated by the dryness estimation calculation unit 87 based on the wetness information calculated by the wetness calculation unit 86. Furthermore, in this embodiment, specifically, the wetness detection unit 60 is a wetness detection sensor 60a, which is a photodiode. The wetness information is the absorbance calculated by the wetness calculation unit 86 based on the signal strength from the wetness detection sensor 60a. For example... Figure 24As shown in the upper section, when the hair is wet, more light is absorbed by the hair when it is illuminated by the illumination unit 72, thus reducing the amount of reflected light received by the wetness detection sensor 60a. On the other hand, when the hair is dry, less light is absorbed by the hair when it is illuminated by the illumination unit 72, thus the amount of reflected light received by the wetness detection sensor 60a does not decrease. In other words, the dryness estimation calculation unit 87 can estimate the degree of dryness based on the change in absorbance, that is, estimate whether the hair is wet or dry.

[0143] Alternatively, as another principle, the hair bundle state can be set as wetting information, and the dryness of the hair can be calculated using machine learning. In this case, the wetting detection unit 60 is a camera or other imaging unit that captures images of the hair. The wetting calculation unit 86 is a machine learning calculation unit that determines the hair bundle state based on the hair image captured by the wetting detection unit 60. Figure 24 As shown in the middle column, when the hair is wet, the hairs stick together to form clumps. On the other hand, when the hair is dry, the hairs are separated and independent of each other. That is to say, the dryness estimation calculation unit 87 can estimate the degree of dryness based on the clump state of the hair determined by the machine learning calculation unit.

[0144] Furthermore, the temperature of the hair can also be set as moisture information, and the dryness of the hair can be calculated by the moisture calculation unit 86. In this case, the moisture detection unit 60 is a temperature sensor. The temperature sensor can also be, for example, an infrared thermometer (infrared sensor). The moisture calculation unit 86 calculates the temperature as moisture information based on the hair measurement value measured by the moisture detection unit 60. Figure 24 As shown in the lower section, when the hair is wet, when warm air is emitted from the nozzle 10b to the hair, the temperature on the surface of the hair is difficult to rise and easy to cool, so the temperature change is small. On the other hand, when the hair is dry, when warm air is emitted from the nozzle 10b to the hair, the temperature on the surface of the hair rises easily and is difficult to cool, so the temperature change is large. In other words, the drying estimation calculation unit 87 can estimate the degree of dryness based on the temperature change of the hair.

[0145] Figure 25 Is with Figure 24 Correspondingly, a chart illustrating the specific criteria for determining whether hair is in a wet or dry state is provided. Firstly, as in this embodiment, when determining based on changes in absorbance, such as... Figure 25 As shown in the upper section, hair can be judged as wet when the absorbance is 70%–30%, and as dry when the absorbance is 29%–10%. Furthermore, in cases where the determination is based on the hair's bundle state, such as… Figure 24 and Figure 25As shown in the respective middle columns, the results can be followed according to machine learning. Furthermore, in cases where judgments are based on temperature changes, such as... Figure 25 As shown in the lower column, hair can be considered wet when the temperature gradient is gentle when it comes into contact with warm air, and dry when the gradient is steep.

[0146] Next, the effects of hair dryer 1 will be explained.

[0147] The hair dryer 1, as part of the hair care device according to this embodiment, includes: a heat application unit 30 that applies heat to the user's hair; a component generation unit 40 that generates a component that acts on the hair; and a site detection unit 64 that detects at least a portion of the hair. Additionally, the hair dryer 1 includes a control unit 80 that estimates the site to which heat or component is applied based on the output of the site detection unit 64, and adjusts the heat level set for the heat application unit 30 or the component amount set for the component generation unit 40 for each site.

[0148] In this embodiment, when applying heat or ingredients to the user's hair, the control unit 80 estimates the area to which heat is applied from the heat application unit 30 or the area to which ingredients are applied from the ingredient generation unit 40. Then, the control unit 80 adjusts the amount of heat and ingredients applied to each estimated area of ​​the user's hair, thus enabling highly precise control that is optimal for the user using the hair dryer 1.

[0149] Thus, according to this embodiment, a hair care device can be provided that easily achieves the hair effect desired by the user.

[0150] Furthermore, in the hair dryer 1, the control unit 80 includes a part calculation unit 91, which estimates the part based on the output from the part detection unit 64. Additionally, the control unit 80 includes an accumulation calculation unit 88, which calculates accumulated heat or accumulated component amount for each part estimated by the part calculation unit 91. The accumulated heat is the accumulated amount of heat applied by the heat application unit 30, and the accumulated component amount is the accumulated amount of components applied by the component generation unit 40. The heat can be adjusted by referring to the accumulated heat. The component amount can also be adjusted by referring to the accumulated component amount.

[0151] According to such a hair dryer 1, since the heat is adjusted by referring to the accumulated heat or the amount of ingredients is adjusted by referring to the accumulated amount of ingredients, the control unit 80 can adjust the heat or amount of ingredients applied to each part of the hair through simple control.

[0152] Alternatively, in the hair dryer 1, the position detection unit 64 can be at least one of a posture detection unit 64b, a distance measuring unit 64a, and a surface condition detection unit 64c. Here, the posture detection unit 64b detects the position or posture of the hair dryer 1, which is a hair care device. The distance measuring unit 64a measures the distance to the hair or the user's skin. The surface condition detection unit 64c detects the surface condition of the hair.

[0153] According to such a hair dryer 1, the part detection unit 64 can detect the part that is heated by the heat-applying unit 30 or the part that is supplied with components by the component generating unit 40 with a simpler structure. Alternatively, the control unit 80 can make the part calculation unit 91 estimate the part that is heated by the heat-applying unit 30 or the part that is supplied with components by the component generating unit 40 with simpler control.

[0154] Furthermore, in the hair dryer 1, when the part detection unit 64 is the posture detection unit 64b, the part calculation unit 91 calculates the amount of change relative to a preset initial position within a specified time based on the output of the posture detection unit 64b. Here, it is also possible that if the amount of change is smaller than a preset reference amount, the part calculation unit 91 determines that the user is performing a drying operation. On the other hand, it is also possible that if the amount of change is larger than a preset reference amount, the part calculation unit 91 determines that the user is not performing a drying operation.

[0155] According to this hair dryer 1, when the part detection unit 64 is the posture detection unit 64b, the part calculation unit 91 can easily determine whether the user is performing a drying operation.

[0156] Furthermore, in the hair dryer 1, when the part detection unit 64 is either the distance measuring unit 64a or the surface condition detection unit 64c, the part calculation unit 91 calculates the change in the output of the distance measuring unit 64a or the surface condition detection unit 64c within a specified time. Alternatively, the part calculation unit 91 may determine the part based on the magnitude of this change.

[0157] According to this hair dryer 1, the part calculation unit 91 can easily determine the part that is heated by the heat application unit 30 or the part that is supplied with components by the component generation unit 40. In addition, the cumulative calculation unit 88 can reduce errors in the amount of component supplied, such as those caused by the movement of hair, by referring to the part determined by the part calculation unit 91 during calculation.

[0158] Additionally, the hair dryer 1 includes a measuring unit 50 for measuring or photographing hair. The control unit 80 includes a dryness estimation calculation unit 87, which estimates the dryness of the hair based on hair measurement values ​​or hair images obtained from the measuring unit 50. Alternatively, an accumulation calculation unit 88 may correct for accumulated heat or accumulated component content based on the dryness estimated by the dryness estimation calculation unit 87.

[0159] According to this hair dryer 1, the control unit 80 adjusts the accumulated heat and accumulated component amount while referring to the dryness of the hair during the drying operation, so as to impart a component amount to the hair that has been adjusted to a better level.

[0160] Additionally, the hair dryer 1 includes a display unit 73 that displays a segmented image obtained by dividing the hair into at least two parts in the front-back direction, left-right direction, or up-down direction. Alternatively, the control unit 80 may change the component amount to the desired amount based on the segmented portion selected by the user in the segmented image displayed on the display unit 73.

[0161] According to this hair dryer 1, the component amount set by the control unit 80 can be changed to the component amount preferred by the user by using a split screen, so it is easier to get the hair effect desired by the user.

[0162] Furthermore, the hair dryer 1 includes a transmit / receive unit 74 that transmits and receives data between itself and the terminal communication unit 103 of the mobile terminal device 100, which is an external communication device. Here, it is assumed that the terminal display unit 101 of the mobile terminal device 100 displays at least a segmented image obtained by dividing the hair into at least two parts in the front-back direction, left-right direction, or up-down direction. In this case, the transmit / receive unit 74 may receive information from the terminal communication unit 103 related to the segmented portion selected by the user in the segmented image on the terminal display unit 101. Alternatively, the control unit 80 may change the component quantity to the amount desired by the user based on the information related to the segmented portion received by the transmit / receive unit 74 from the terminal communication unit 103.

[0163] According to this hair dryer 1, the user can adjust the settings of the hair dryer 1 from the mobile terminal device 100, thus improving the user's convenience.

[0164] (Second Implementation)

[0165] The hair dryer 1 described in the first embodiment uses a wetting detection sensor 60a (photodiode) as an example of the wetting detection unit 60. In contrast, the hair dryer 1 described in the second embodiment uses a camera unit 60b instead of a wetting detection sensor 60a as an example of the wetting detection unit 60.

[0166] Figure 26 This is a schematic perspective view showing the structure of a hair dryer 1 as a hair care device according to the second embodiment. The hair dryer 1 according to this embodiment includes a camera unit 60b provided in place of the wetness detection sensor 60a in the first embodiment, and an illumination unit 72 provided to surround a portion of the nozzle 10b. Furthermore, in this hair dryer 1, the structure other than the camera unit 60b and the illumination unit 72 is the same as that in the first embodiment (except for the control unit 80 and the structure related to control of the signal processing unit 90, etc.), therefore, the same reference numerals are used, and detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0167] First, when the photographic unit 60b is used as the wetting detection unit 60, such as using Figure 24 and Figure 25 As already described, the dryness estimation calculation unit 87 can estimate the degree of dryness through machine learning based on hair images. 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.

[0168] Furthermore, when using the camera unit 60b as the wetting detection unit 60, the hair dryer 1 can also have a part detection unit 64, which is independent of the camera unit 60b and is illustrated in the first embodiment. In other words, the hair dryer 1 according to this embodiment performs the same effect as the hair dryer 1 according to the first embodiment.

[0169] (Other implementation methods)

[0170] Other embodiments of the hair care device disclosed herein may also include a site detection unit, a cumulative amount calculation unit, and a hair application control unit. The site detection unit detects the area of ​​the user's hair where ingredients or heat are applied. The cumulative amount calculation unit uses the detection information from the site detection unit to calculate the total or partial cumulative amount of ingredients or heat on the hair. The hair application control unit uses the estimated data calculated by the cumulative amount calculation unit to generate ingredients or heat and controls the application of ingredients or heat to the hair. Here, the site detection unit can, for example, replace the site detection unit 64 in the embodiment. The cumulative amount calculation unit can, for example, replace the cumulative calculation unit 88 in the embodiment. Furthermore, the hair application control unit can, for example, replace at least one of the heat application unit 30, ingredient generation unit 40, application amount calculation unit 83, ingredient amount control unit 84, and heat control unit 85 in the embodiment.

[0171] The hair control unit can also control the amount of ingredients or the increase or decrease of heat.

[0172] The site detection unit may also include a hair moisture detection unit that detects the overall or localized moisture level of the user's hair. For example, the hair moisture detection unit can replace the moisture detection unit 60 in the embodiment.

[0173] The cumulative amount calculation unit may also include a hair dryness estimation calculation unit, which uses hair moisture detection data detected by the hair moisture detection unit to estimate the dryness of the hair. The hair dryness estimation calculation unit can, for example, replace the dryness estimation calculation unit 87 in the embodiment.

[0174] Alternatively, the cumulative amount calculation unit may use the hair dryness data estimated by the hair dryness estimation calculation unit to correct the estimated data.

[0175] The hair application control unit may also have a screen capable of inputting and outputting data for controlling the hair care device. This screen, for example, can replace the display unit 73 in the embodiment.

[0176] On the other hand, the screen displayed on the hair application control unit can be independent of the hair care device. For example, the screen described here can replace the terminal display unit 101 of the mobile terminal device 100 in the embodiment.

[0177] Alternatively, the hair-applying control unit can display a segmented image obtained by dividing the hair into at least two parts in the front-back, left-right, or up-down directions, and control the hair care device according to each segmented image. The segmented image can replace the one used in the first embodiment. Figure 17A Image 101a is a segmented image as described above.

[0178] Furthermore, the hair care device according to this embodiment may also have a data transmission and reception unit that transmits and receives data from and is external to the hair care device. For example, the data transmission and reception unit can replace the transmission and reception unit 74 in the embodiment.

[0179] Furthermore, the hair application control unit can also perform intermittent motion control when applying ingredients or heat to the user's hair. Here, intermittent motion control refers, for example, to performing actions as used in the first embodiment. Figures 11-16 The timing diagram illustrates the control as described.

[0180] Furthermore, the above-described embodiments are used to illustrate the technology in this disclosure, and therefore various changes, substitutions, additions, omissions, etc., can be made within the scope of the claims or their equivalents.

[0181] Industrial availability

[0182] This disclosure can be applied to all home or business hair care devices used to dry a user's hair or adjust a user's hairstyle.

[0183] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0184] 1: Hair dryer; 2: Power cord; 3: Housing; 3a: Divider plate; 4: Airflow path; 10: Main body; 10a: Suction port; 10b: Spray outlet; 10c: Connecting part; 10d: Connecting shaft; 10e: Branch path; 10f: Ingredient spray outlet; 10g: Front surface; 14: Nozzle part; 20: Holding part; 20a: Housing; 30: Heat imparting part; 31: Fan; 32: Motor; 33: Heating part; 40: Ingredient generation part; 40a: First electrostatic atomizing device; 40b: Second electrostatic atomizing device 40c: Third electrostatic atomizing device; 41a: Sprayer; 41b: Canister; 41c: Pump; 41d: GND electrode; 41e: High voltage circuit; 41f: Pump drive circuit; 42a: Discharge section; 42b: GND electrode; 42c: High voltage circuit; 43a: Discharge section; 43b: Peltier element; 43c: GND electrode; 43d: High voltage circuit; 50: Measurement section; 60: Wetting detection section; 60a: Wetting detection sensor; 60b: Photographic section; 61: Room temperature sensor; 62: Humidity sensor Sensors; 63: Hair detection unit; 64: Location detection unit; 64a: Distance measurement unit; 64b: Posture detection unit; 64c: Surface condition detection unit; 71: Input unit; 71a: Hair texture input unit; 71b: Hair length input unit; 71c: Hair volume input unit; 72: Illumination unit; 73: Display unit; 74: Transmitter / receiver unit; 75: Storage unit; 76: Power switch; 77: Initialization switch; 80: Control unit; 81: Hair characteristic recognition unit; 82: Scale generation unit; 83: Quantity calculation unit; 84: 85: Component quantity control unit; 86: Heat control unit; 87: Wetting calculation unit; 88: Drying estimation calculation unit; 90: Accumulation calculation unit; 91: Signal processing unit; 92: Location calculation unit; 100: Initial position determination unit; 101: Mobile terminal device; 101: Terminal display unit; 101a: Image; 101b: First touch area; 101c: Second touch area; 101d: Third touch area; 101e: First pie chart; 101f: Second pie chart; 102: Terminal photography unit; 103: Terminal communication unit.

Claims

1. A hair care device comprising: a heat-imparting section that imparts heat to a user's hair; a component-generating section that generates a component that acts on the hair; a section detecting section that detects at least a portion of the hair; and a control section that estimates a section to which the heat or the component is imparted based on an output from the section detecting section, and adjusts an amount of heat set to the heat-imparting section or an amount of component set to the component-generating section for each of the sections, wherein the control section has: a section calculating section that estimates the section based on the output from the section detecting section; and a cumulative calculating section that calculates a cumulative amount of heat or a cumulative amount of component for each of the sections estimated by the section calculating section, the cumulative amount of heat being a cumulative amount of the heat imparted by the heat-imparting section, the cumulative amount of component being a cumulative amount of the component imparted by the component-generating section, the amount of heat being adjusted with reference to the cumulative amount of heat, the amount of component being adjusted with reference to the cumulative amount of component, wherein the section detecting section is at least one of a posture detecting section that detects a position or a posture of at least one axis of the hair care device, a distance measuring section that measures a distance to the hair or a skin of the user, and a surface state detecting section that detects a surface state of the hair.

2. The hair care device according to claim 1, wherein, when the section detecting section is the posture detecting section, the section calculating section calculates a variation from an initial position set in advance within a predetermined time for the output of the posture detecting section, determines that the user is performing a drying operation when the variation is smaller than a reference variation set in advance, and determines that the user is not performing the drying operation when the variation is larger than the reference variation.

3. The hair care device according to claim 1, wherein, when the section detecting section is the distance measuring section or the surface state detecting section, the section calculating section calculates a variation of the output of the distance measuring section or the surface state detecting section within a predetermined time, and determines the section based on a magnitude of the variation.

4. The hair care device according to claim 1, further comprising a measuring section that measures or photographs the hair, wherein the control section has a dryness estimating calculating section that estimates a dryness of the hair based on a hair measurement value or a hair image obtained from the measuring section, and the cumulative calculating section corrects the cumulative amount of heat or the cumulative amount of component based on the dryness estimated by the dryness estimating calculating section.

5. The hair care device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising a display section that displays at least a divided image obtained by dividing at least two times in a front-rear direction, a left-right direction, or an up-down direction of the hair, wherein the control section changes the amount of component to a desired amount based on a divided portion selected by the user in the divided image of the display section.

6. The hair care device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Further provided is a transmission / reception section that transmits and receives with a terminal communication section provided in a mobile terminal device that is a communication device outside, When at least a divided image obtained by dividing at least two times in a front-rear direction, a left-right direction, or an up-down direction of the hair is displayed in a terminal display section provided in the mobile terminal device, The transmission / reception section receives information about a divided portion selected by the user in the divided image of the terminal display section from the terminal communication section, The control section changes the component amount to an amount desired by the user based on the information about the divided portion received by the transmission / reception section from the terminal communication section.

7. A hair care device provided with: a heat-imparting section that imparts heat to the hair of a user; a component-generating section that generates a component that acts on the hair; a section-detecting section that detects at least a portion of the hair; and a control section that estimates a section to which the component is to be imparted based on an output of the section-detecting section and adjusts a component amount set to the component-generating section for each of the sections, wherein the control section has: a section-calculating section that estimates the section based on the output from the section-detecting section; and an accumulated-component-calculating section that calculates an accumulated component amount for each of the sections estimated by the section-calculating section, the accumulated component amount being a cumulative amount of the component imparted by the component-generating section, the component amount being adjusted with reference to the accumulated component amount.

8. A hair care device provided with: a section-detecting section that detects a section of the hair of a user to which a component is to be imparted; an accumulated-amount-calculating section that calculates the component accumulated in the whole or a part of the hair using detection information detected by the section-detecting section; and a hair-imparting control section that generates the component using estimation data calculated by the accumulated-amount-calculating section and controls to impart the component to the hair. ​

Images