Coating system, coating assistance method, and storage medium

Abstract

The present application provides a kind of coating system, coating auxiliary method and storage medium, coating system has: drying device, the 1st coating material being coated on the surface of nail is dried;And coating device, through the 1st coating material being dried by the drying device, the 2nd coating material is coated on the surface of nail.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to coating systems, coating-aiding methods, and storage media. Background Technology

[0002] JP Special Notice 2003-534083 describes a coating apparatus (printing apparatus) for printing on human fingernails, etc.

[0003] For example, when performing manicures on fingernails, a drying process is required after applying nail polish. Even when using a coating device to print nail polish, the ink or other liquid agent needs to dry after application. Drying of the liquid agent can be achieved using a drying device (such as a nail dryer).

[0004] Furthermore, when printing nails, for example, before forming a design using a coating apparatus (printing apparatus) (coating with liquids such as ink), it is preferable to perform a base coating by applying a white or other substrate to the nail, perform a pre-printing coating to form an ink-receiving layer so that the ink can be easily fixed, and then, after forming a design based on the ink or other coating, apply a liquid to protect the surface to perform a top coating, thereby achieving nail printing with better color development and better durability.

[0005] However, in such a multi-step process, after each liquid agent (coating agent, etc.) is applied, the liquid agent needs to be dried. Furthermore, the appropriate drying time varies for each liquid agent. Therefore, if the drying management of each step is left to the user, it is possible that the product may be moved to the next step in an insufficiently dried state. Insufficient drying can cause the design formed by applying inks, etc., to bleed or distort, ultimately resulting in an unattractive finished product.

[0006] On the other hand, if the drying time is extended unnecessarily, the time required for nail printing will be increased, thus increasing the burden on users. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The present invention is proposed in view of the above circumstances, and one of its advantages is to provide a coating system, coating assistance method and storage medium that can dry nails after liquid coating for an appropriate time.

[0008] An embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a coating system comprising: a drying device for drying a first coating material applied to the surface of a nail; and a coating device for applying a second coating material to the surface of the nail over the first coating material dried by the drying device.

[0009] Furthermore, one embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a coating aid method performed by a coating system equipped with a coating device and a drying device, comprising: a drying step, wherein a first coating material applied by the coating device to the surface of a nail is dried by the drying device; and a coating step, wherein a second coating material is applied to the surface of the nail by the coating device over the first coating material dried by the drying device.

[0010] Furthermore, in one embodiment of this disclosure, the storage medium records a computer-readable program of a coating system having a drying device and a coating device. The program causes the computer to perform the following processing: display control processing, waiting for a timeout or a predetermined timeout after the drying of a first coating material applied to the surface of the nail by the coating device based on the drying device, and then switching the guidance display on the display to a guidance display for guiding the application of a second coating material to the surface of the nail based on the coating device. Attached Figure Description

[0011] Figure 1 It is a three-dimensional view showing the appearance and structure of the main parts of the coating apparatus.

[0012] Figure 2 This is a three-dimensional view showing the external structure of the main parts of the drying device.

[0013] Figure 3 This is a block diagram showing the main parts of the control structure of the coating system and the coating apparatus and drying apparatus constituting the coating system according to the first embodiment.

[0014] Figure 4 This is a diagram showing an example of a drying time correspondence table.

[0015] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating the process between the coating apparatus and the drying apparatus in the first embodiment.

[0016] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating the process between the coating apparatus and the drying apparatus in the first embodiment.

[0017] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating the process between the coating apparatus and the drying apparatus in the first embodiment.

[0018] Figure 8A This is an example of a display screen shown on the display unit during the base coating formation process.

[0019] Figure 8B This is an example of a display screen shown on the display unit during the base coating formation process.

[0020] Figure 8C An example of a display screen shown on the display unit during the base coating formation process.

[0021] Figure 8D This is an example of a display screen shown on the display unit during the base coating formation process.

[0022] Figure 9A This is an example of a display screen shown on the display unit during the pre-printed coating forming process.

[0023] Figure 9B This is an example of a display screen shown on the display unit during the pre-printed coating forming process.

[0024] Figure 9C This is an example of a display screen shown on the display unit during the pre-printed coating forming process.

[0025] Figure 9D This is an example of a display screen shown on the display unit during the pre-printed coating forming process.

[0026] Figure 10A This is an example of a display screen that indicates permission to transfer from the pre-printed coating forming process to the design forming process.

[0027] Figure 10B This refers to an example of a display screen shown in the display section during the design and manufacturing process.

[0028] Figure 10C This refers to an example of a display screen shown in the display section during the design and manufacturing process.

[0029] Figure 10D This refers to an example of a display screen shown in the display section during the design and manufacturing process.

[0030] Figure 11A This refers to an example of a display screen shown in the display section during the design and manufacturing process.

[0031] Figure 11B This refers to an example of a display screen shown in the display section during the design and manufacturing process.

[0032] Figure 11C This refers to an example of a display screen shown in the display section during the design and manufacturing process.

[0033] Figure 12A This is an example of a display screen shown on the display unit during the top coating formation process.

[0034] Figure 12B This is an example of a display screen shown on the display unit during the top coating formation process.

[0035] Figure 12C This is an example of a display screen shown on the display unit during the top coating formation process.

[0036] Figure 13 This is a block diagram showing the main parts of the control structure of the drying apparatus in the second embodiment.

[0037] Figure 14 This is a flowchart illustrating the processing of the coating apparatus and drying apparatus in the second embodiment.

[0038] Figure 15 This is a flowchart illustrating the processing of the coating apparatus and drying apparatus in the second embodiment.

[0039] Figure 16A This is an example of a display screen shown on the display unit during the substrate coating formation process in the second embodiment.

[0040] Figure 16B This is an example of a display screen shown on the display unit during the substrate coating formation process in the second embodiment.

[0041] Figure 16C This is an example of a display screen shown on the display unit during the substrate coating formation process in the second embodiment.

[0042] Figure 17 This is a diagram showing the schematic structure of a coating system according to a variation of this embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0043] The embodiments of the coating system, coating auxiliary method, and storage medium involved in this disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0044] Furthermore, the embodiments described below are subject to various limitations that are technically preferred for carrying out this disclosure, but are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure to the following embodiments and illustrated examples.

[0045] For example, in the following embodiments, the coating apparatus (printing apparatus) is described as a nail printing apparatus that coats fingernails with ink. However, the coating object of the coating apparatus in this disclosure is not limited to fingernails; for example, toenails can also be used as the coating object. In addition, objects other than nails, such as nail tips and the surfaces of various ornaments, can also be used as the coating object.

[0046] Furthermore, in the following embodiments, the nail printing process is described as being completed after nail printing is performed on the nails through multiple steps (forming steps).

[0047] Here, "multiple forming processes" include, for example, a base coating forming process where a liquid agent such as white is applied to the nail to form a base layer as a substrate; a pre-printing coating forming process where an ink receiving layer is formed on the base layer for fixing ink applied by a nail printing device, i.e., a coating device (printing device); a design forming process where a design is formed (coated) with colored ink by a coating device described later on the ink receiving layer; and a top coating forming process where a coating agent is applied from the formed design. Each forming process includes a liquid application process and a drying process where the applied liquid agent is dried by passing it through a drying device (nail dryer described later). Furthermore, the coating process of these "multiple forming processes" constituting the nail application treatment includes a manual application of the liquid agent and an automatic application process performed by the coating device 1.

[0048] Furthermore, "multiple forming processes" is not limited to the cases illustrated herein and may also include other processes. In addition, "multiple forming processes" may also consist of a portion of the processes shown herein.

[0049] In addition, details about each forming process will be described later.

[0050] <First Implementation>

[0051] First, refer to Figures 1 to 12C The first embodiment of the coating system, coating auxiliary method and storage medium involved in this disclosure will be described.

[0052] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing the main external structure of the coating apparatus 1 that constitutes the coating system 100 in the embodiment. Figure 2 It means and Figure 1 The diagram shows a perspective view of the main structural components of the drying apparatus 6, which together with the coating apparatus 1 constitute the coating system 100. Furthermore, Figure 3 This is a block diagram showing the main control structure of the coating apparatus 1 and the drying apparatus 6 that cooperate in the coating system 100 of this embodiment.

[0053] [Structure of the coating apparatus]

[0054] like Figure 1 As shown, the coating apparatus 1 of this embodiment has a housing 2 that is generally box-shaped. Furthermore, in the following embodiments, the X direction and Y direction in the coating apparatus 1 refer to... Figure 1 direction shown.

[0055] On the front side of the housing 2 of the coating device 1 ( Figure 1 The middle is the front side in the Y direction) and the left and right directions of the device ( Figure 1An opening 21 is formed approximately in the center of the device in the X direction. The opening 21 is a finger insertion port into the device into which a finger (not shown) corresponding to the fingernail, which is the object to be coated, is inserted. It has a width and height that allow the finger to enter and exit.

[0056] In this embodiment, a finger placement part 3 is provided inside the housing 2 and inside the opening 21, for placing the finger corresponding to the nail to be coated. Although not shown, it is preferable that the finger placement part 3 has a structure for fixing the placed finger, limiting the height direction of the finger, etc.

[0057] The height, width, and depth of the finger placement section 3 should be such that the height and width are sufficient to stably place the fingers, and the specific degree can be set appropriately.

[0058] Furthermore, the opening 21 can also be sized (width, height) to accommodate multiple fingers at once (e.g., five fingers of a single hand). In this case, the finger placement section 3 provided inside the opening 21 is also sized to accommodate multiple fingers.

[0059] An operating part 22 is provided on the upper surface (top plate) of the housing 2.

[0060] The operation unit 22 is a component for users to make various inputs.

[0061] The operation unit 22 consists of operation buttons for various inputs, such as a power switch button to turn the power to the coating apparatus 1 on / off, a stop switch button to stop the operation, and a coating start button to indicate the start of coating.

[0062] If the operation unit 22 is operated, the operation signal corresponding to the operation is output to the control unit 11 of the control device 10, and the control unit 11 performs control based on the operation signal to make each part of the coating device 1 operate.

[0063] In addition, a display unit 23 is disposed on the upper surface of the housing 2.

[0064] The display unit 23 may be composed of, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic light-emitting diode display (OLED), or other types of displays (flat panel displays). Based on display signals input from the control unit 11 (described later), the display unit 23 displays various images and information.

[0065] In this embodiment, the display unit 23 can be integrated with the touch panel. In this case, the touch panel also functions as an operation unit 22 that accepts user touch operations and performs various inputs.

[0066] Furthermore, a lamp 24 is disposed on the upper surface of the housing 2 in this embodiment. The lamp 24 is, for example, composed of an LED, and its color can be appropriately changed, or its illumination and flashing can be switched, based on the control of the control unit 11.

[0067] For example, if the coating apparatus 1 is in a state where coating operation is permitted, it will remain lit in green. During the coating operation, it will flash green. Furthermore, during periods when coating operation is not permitted, it will remain lit in red. If coating operation cannot be performed due to device malfunction or other reasons, it will flash red as an error indication.

[0068] When the application of liquid to the object in this embodiment, namely the nail, is permitted by the control unit 11, which is described later as a process management unit, the lamp 24 functions as a reporting unit to report this intention. Furthermore, the reporting unit is not limited to the lamp 24; the display unit 23, etc., can also function as a reporting unit. Moreover, the reporting unit may not be a visual component like the lamp 24 or the display unit 23; it may also be a reporting unit that uses sound, for example.

[0069] In addition, such as Figure 3 As shown, in addition to the operation unit 22, display unit 23, and lamp 24 mentioned above, the coating apparatus 1 also includes a coating mechanism 4, a camera unit 5, a communication unit 25, and a control device 10.

[0070] The coating mechanism 4 has a head 41 and a head moving mechanism 49 for moving the head 41 (see reference). Figure 3 ).

[0071] The head 41 is a coating unit for applying (printing) a liquid agent (in this embodiment, ink, which is the second coating material described later) to the nail, which is the object.

[0072] In this embodiment, the head 41 is a cartridge-integrated printhead with a built-in ink storage section (not shown) and an ink ejection mechanism (not shown) that ejects ink from the ink storage section into fine droplets and coats the surface of the nail, which is the object of coating, with ink. Furthermore, the specific structure of the head 41 is not particularly limited, and heads with various structures can be used.

[0073] In this embodiment, the head 41 of the coating mechanism 4 is, for example, an ink storage section corresponding to colored inks such as cyan (C; CYAN), magenta (M; MAGENTA), and yellow (Y; YELLOW), and a design head 41 for forming designs (nail designs) with colored inks. However, the inks that can be coated by the head 41 are not limited to those listed here. Ink of other colors may also be used and can be sprayed out.

[0074] In this embodiment, the head 41 is capable of moving in the left-right direction (X direction) and the front-back direction (Y direction) of the device. The head moving mechanism 49 includes an X-direction moving motor (not shown) for moving the head 41 in the X direction and a Y-direction moving motor (not shown) for moving the head 41 in the Y direction. The X-direction moving motor and the Y-direction moving motor are, for example, stepper motors, and their operation is controlled by a control unit 11 that functions as a coating control unit described later.

[0075] The shooting unit 5 is equipped with a camera 51 and a light source 52.

[0076] The camera 51 captures an image of the object (fingernail) positioned on the finger placement section 3 and its surrounding area. The image captured by the camera 51 is then sent to the control section 11.

[0077] In addition, the light source 52 is a lighting lamp such as a white LED.

[0078] When the nail is placed on the mounting unit 3 with the camera 51 of the imaging unit 5 as the object, it captures images of the nail and the finger containing the nail to obtain a nail image (not shown). In this embodiment, the control unit 11, described later, detects the nail outline that defines the nail area as the application area of ​​the liquid agent from the nail image acquired by the camera 51.

[0079] The communication unit 25 is a communication unit that communicates with external devices. Furthermore, in this embodiment, "external devices" refers to the drying device 6, which will be described later.

[0080] Communication between the coating apparatus 1 and the drying apparatus 6, etc., is conducted, for example, via a wireless LAN. However, the communication between the coating apparatus 1 and the drying apparatus 6, etc., is not limited to this and can be in any manner. For example, a network line such as the Internet can be used, or wireless communication based on short-range wireless communication standards such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) or Wi-Fi can be performed. Furthermore, this communication is not limited to a wireless connection method and can also be configured to enable the transmission and reception of various indicator signals and data between the two via a wired connection.

[0081] In this embodiment, the communication unit 25, together with the control unit 11 described later, functions as a start instruction sending unit. If the sensing unit of the drying device 6 (the finger sensing unit 75 described later) senses a finger (fingernail) positioned as the object, the start instruction sending unit sends a start instruction to the drying device 6 to initiate the drying operation of the drying mechanism 73. The start instruction can be an operation signal (hardware power switch) that directly turns on the drying device 6 (the drying mechanism 73 of the drying device 6), or it can be an instruction signal that instructs the drying device 6 (the drying mechanism 73 of the drying device 6) to perform an operation.

[0082] Furthermore, the communication unit 25 functions as a stop instruction sending unit. This stop instruction sending unit sends a stop instruction to the drying device 6 to stop the drying operation of the drying mechanism 73 when the elapsed time counted by the control unit 11 (which is described later as a time management unit) exceeds a "predetermined set time". The stop instruction can be an operation signal (hardware off switch) that directly shuts off the drying device 6 (the drying mechanism 73 of the drying device 6), or it can be an instruction signal that instructs the drying device 6 (the drying mechanism 73 of the drying device 6) to operate. Alternatively, the drying device 6 (the drying mechanism 73 of the drying device 6) can be in an on state when the drying signal output from the communication unit 25 is HIGH, and in an off state when the drying signal from the communication unit 25 is LOW.

[0083] The control device 10 mounted on the coating apparatus 1 is a computer that includes a control unit 11 with a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) not shown, and a storage unit 12 with ROM (Read Only Memory) and RAM (Random Access Memory) (both shown).

[0084] The storage unit 12 stores various programs and data for operating the coating apparatus 1 in the ROM or the like.

[0085] The control unit 11 expands and executes various programs stored in ROM, etc., in the working area of ​​RAM, thereby comprehensively controlling the operation of each part of the coating apparatus 1.

[0086] That is, the control unit 11, in cooperation with the program (such as a coating control processing program that controls the coating action of the coating mechanism 4), realizes various functions for the coating device 1 to perform coating processing, etc.

[0087] In this embodiment, the control unit 11 functions primarily as a display control unit for controlling the operation of the display unit 23, a coating control unit for controlling the operation of each part of the coating mechanism 4, a shooting control unit for controlling the operation of each part of the shooting unit 5, and a communication control unit for controlling the operation of the communication unit 17. In addition, it also functions as a time management unit for managing the drying time of the drying device 6.

[0088] The control unit 11, which is a display control unit, generates display data for displaying on the display screen of the display unit 23 and outputs it to the display unit 23. For example, the control unit 11 generates display data for displaying image data, designs (nail designs), etc., for displaying nail images acquired by the imaging unit 5, and display data for displaying various message screens, guidance screens, error screens, etc., on the display screen of the display unit 23.

[0089] The control unit 11, acting as the coating control unit, controls the operation of the coating mechanism 4. Specifically, it controls the head 41 based on coating data to appropriately spray ink. Furthermore, the control unit 11, acting as the coating control unit, operates the head movement mechanism 48 (specifically, an X-direction movement motor and a Y-direction movement motor) to move the head 41 appropriately in the XY directions. The coating data can be generated by the control unit 11 or acquired externally. When the control unit 11 generates the coating data, it may be generated, for example, by identifying the nail area based on an image (nail image) acquired by the imaging unit 5 and applying a design to the nail area.

[0090] The control unit 11, which acts as the shooting control unit, controls the operation of the camera 51 and the light source 52 of the shooting unit 5. The light source 52 illuminates the nail and its surrounding area, and the camera 51 acquires images of the nail.

[0091] Furthermore, the control unit 11 acts as a communication control unit to control the operation of the communication unit 25. For example, when selecting a design (nail design), detecting the nail outline from a nail image, and generating coating data are performed through an external device such as a terminal device (not shown), the control unit 11 controls the communication unit 25 to receive data on the selected design, the detected nail outline, and the generated coating data from the external device.

[0092] Furthermore, the control unit 11 in this embodiment functions as a time management unit, which has a timer function and receives the sensing results from the finger sensing unit 75 of the drying device 6 (described later as a sensing unit) to keep track of the elapsed time from a predetermined time point after the finger is sensed.

[0093] The term "prescribed time point" can be, for example, 2 or 3 seconds after the finger sensor 75 detects a finger. The elapsed time, recorded by the control unit 11, which serves as the time management unit, becomes the determining factor in the process management unit (described later) for whether to guide the transition to the next forming process. Therefore, it is preferable that the start of timing is based on the time point at which the drying operation of the drying device 6 reliably begins.

[0094] That is, imagine that if a finger is detected inside the drying device 6, the user's application of the liquid to the nail will end and the drying action of the drying device 6 will begin. However, even if a finger is detected, the drying action inside the drying device 6 may not begin immediately. Therefore, by allowing a short delay from the detected timing, the elapsed time of the drying action can be reliably controlled.

[0095] Furthermore, the control unit 11 functions as a start instruction sending unit by controlling the operation of the communication unit 25 as described above. If the sensing unit (the finger sensing unit 75 of the drying device 6, described later) senses that the finger corresponding to the nail to be dried is positioned within the device, the start instruction sending unit sends a start instruction to the drying device 6 to initiate the drying operation performed by the drying mechanism 73. It also functions as a stop instruction sending unit. If the elapsed time from a predetermined point after the finger is sensed by the finger sensing unit 75 of the drying device 6 exceeds the "predetermined set time" described later, the stop instruction sending unit sends a stop instruction to the drying device 6 to stop the drying operation performed by the drying mechanism 73.

[0096] Furthermore, the control unit 11 also functions as a process management unit. If the elapsed time, as measured by the timer function, exceeds a "predetermined set time," the control unit performs process management such as guiding the transfer to the next forming process. In particular, in this embodiment, it also includes the function of a coating control unit. If the elapsed time, as measured by the timer function, exceeds a "predetermined set time," the control unit 11, as a process management unit, allows the coating operation performed by the coating apparatus 1. The coating control unit allows the coating operation of the liquid (ink) as the second coating material performed by the coating apparatus 1 to begin.

[0097] For example, by switching the guide display displayed on the display unit 23, which is a designated display unit, to a guide display for guiding the application of ink (second coating material) by the coating apparatus 1, the transfer to the next forming process is guided. In addition, when "guidance" is not limited to being performed by display, it can also be performed by sound guidance, for example, when a speaker is provided.

[0098] Here, the "prescribed setting time" is set according to the drying process of each forming step. There are no particular limitations on the setting method, but for example... Figure 4As shown, a lookup table (LUT, hereinafter also called "drying time correspondence LUT") corresponding to the type of liquid (coating agent, etc.) and the time required until the liquid dries is stored in the storage unit 12, etc. The control unit 11 refers to this table to determine the "prescribed set time" required for drying the liquid used in each forming process. In this way, since the drying time required in each forming process is determined by the control unit 11, if a finger (fingernail) is sensed to be placed in the drying device 6, even if no notification of drying completion is received from the drying device 6, the control unit 11 can derive the predetermined time of drying completion based on the elapsed time from the time the finger was sensed. In addition, a notification of drying completion can be received from the drying device 6, and process management such as guiding the transfer to the next forming process or allowing the coating operation performed by the coating device 1 can be performed based on this time point (drying completion time).

[0099] In this embodiment, as described above, nail printing (nail application treatment) is completed through four processes: a base coating formation process, a pre-printing formation process, a design formation process, and a top coating formation process. Before starting a series of processes, the control unit 11 obtains information about the nail application treatment, including the order in which each formation process is performed and which liquid is applied in each formation process.

[0100] That is, if the user selects a design (nail design) for nail formation (coating), the content of the design application process (specifically, the desired formation steps, type of liquid, etc.) that can be completed with the highest quality for the selected design is determined. Furthermore, among the various formation steps illustrated above, this embodiment describes the case where the coating device 1 only performs the design formation step, and the user manually applies the liquid (coating agent) for other formation steps (such as the base coating formation step).

[0101] For example, the liquid agent (coating agent) used in the base coating forming process consists of butyl acetate, nitrocellulose, alkyl acrylate copolymer, titanium dioxide, etc.; the liquid agent (coating agent) used in the pre-printing coating forming process consists of water, (VP / VA) copolymer, ammonium acrylate copolymer, etc.; and the liquid agent (coating agent) used in the top coating forming process consists of butyl acetate, nitrocellulose, alkyl acrylate copolymer, etc.

[0102] Thus, the components of the liquid used in each process differ, resulting in variations in the drying time required (e.g., approximately 3 to 5 minutes). Furthermore, in the design forming process, it is assumed that the liquid (design ink) applied by the coating apparatus 1 is typically water-based and is uniformly applied (printed) mechanically. Therefore, compared to various coating agents applied manually by the user in processes such as the base coating forming process, the drying time is shorter (e.g., less than 1 minute).

[0103] Furthermore, even within the same forming process, different liquids (coating agents) may be used depending on the design chosen by the user. For example, in the case of the base coat forming process, when printing a clear and vibrant design, it is more aesthetically pleasing to completely whiten the nails and eliminate their natural color. Therefore, a white liquid with high opacity is often chosen for the base coat. Additionally, if a transparent finish is desired, a small amount of pink or light brown liquid may be used as the base coat coating agent, depending on the user's preference. The drying time varies depending on the type of liquid and its composition.

[0104] Therefore, if the control unit 11, as a process management unit, acquires the nail application treatment content (the content constituting the nail application treatment formation process) in accordance with the user's design selection, it refers to the drying time corresponding to the LUT (Landing Time Unit). Figure 4 Refer to (e.g.) to obtain the "specified set time" corresponding to the liquid (coating agent) used in each forming process.

[0105] Furthermore, if the elapsed time exceeds the "predetermined set time," the liquid (coating agent) is fully dried, thus guiding the user to proceed to the next forming process. In this embodiment, for example, using... Figure 8D , Figure 9A Such guidance displays (display screens 23d, 23e, etc.) are displayed on the display unit 23. Furthermore, the specific guidance method is not particularly limited. For example, if the coating apparatus 1 is equipped with a speaker, the subsequent forming process can also be guided by sound from the speaker.

[0106] In this respect, in the coating system 100 of this embodiment, if the elapsed time exceeds the "predetermined set time", the system guides the user to proceed to the next forming process. In other words, the system does not guide the user to proceed to the next forming process until the elapsed time exceeds the "predetermined set time", thereby preventing the user from proceeding to the next forming process based on their own judgment when the product is not sufficiently dried, and ensuring a suitable drying time.

[0107] Furthermore, this embodiment illustrates a case where time management and process management are performed throughout all the forming processes of nail application treatment to ensure drying time. However, it is not limited to the case where time management and process management are performed throughout all forming processes. For example, time management and process management may not be performed in the forming processes of nail application treatment, such as in the base coating forming process and the pre-printing forming process, where the coating process is a continuous process of hand application.

[0108] When the liquid agent applied by hand (the coating agent used in the base coating formation process and the pre-printing formation process) is designated as "first coating material" and the liquid agent applied by the coating device 1 (the ink applied in the design formation process) is designated as "second coating material", if the "second coating material" is applied before the "first coating material" is fully dried, the design is prone to distortion or seepage due to the liquid agent mixing, which greatly affects the finished nail print.

[0109] Therefore, in particular, when transferring from the pre-printing forming process performed by hand coating in the coating process to the subsequent design forming process performed by coating device 1 in the coating process, if it is reliably prevented from transferring to the subsequent forming process until the "predetermined set time" has elapsed, high-quality nail printing can be achieved.

[0110] [Structure of the drying device]

[0111] The drying apparatus 6 in this embodiment is as follows: Figure 2 As shown, it has a housing 7 that is generally box-shaped. Furthermore, in the following embodiments, the X and Y directions in the drying apparatus 6 refer to... Figure 2 The direction shown. Furthermore, the shape of the drying device 6 is not limited to the example shown in the figure. If it includes a drying mechanism such as a fan or heater as described later, it can also be in the shape of, for example, a blower or a hair dryer.

[0112] On the front side of housing 7 ( Figure 2 An opening 71 is formed on approximately the entire width of the device (in the Y direction, towards the front side). The opening 71 is an insertion port for inserting a finger, including a fingernail (as the object), into the device, and has a width and height sufficient to allow a hand to enter and exit. Furthermore, the size of the opening 71 is not limited to the example shown in the figure. For example, it may have a width sufficient to insert both hands simultaneously, or it may be a size (width) sufficient to accept fingers one by one.

[0113] An operating section 72 is provided on the upper surface (top plate) of the housing 7.

[0114] The operation unit 72 is a component for users to make various inputs.

[0115] The operation unit 72 consists of operation buttons for various inputs, such as a power switch button to turn the power to the drying device 6 on / off, a stop switch button to stop the operation, and a drying start button to indicate the start of the drying operation.

[0116] If the operation unit 72 is operated, the corresponding operation signal is output to the motion control unit 60, and the motion control unit 60 performs control based on the operation signal to make each part of the drying device 6 operate.

[0117] In this embodiment, the interior of the housing 7 serves as a drying space SP for drying nails coated with a liquid agent (such as a coating agent). A drying mechanism 73 is provided above the drying space SP.

[0118] The drying mechanism 73 is, for example, an axial fan that includes an electric motor (not shown) and a propeller (wing) that is driven to rotate by the electric motor.

[0119] The motor that drives the fan is controlled by the motion control unit 60, which will be described later. For example, if the voltage applied to the motor (hereinafter also referred to as "applied voltage value") is high, the motor speed will increase, thereby increasing the air volume and air speed from the fan.

[0120] Furthermore, the drying unit 73 is not limited to drying the liquid by blowing air through a fan. For example, it may replace the fan or be equipped with a heater to heat the drying space SP along with the fan. Depending on the type of liquid, heating may be more effective than blowing air in promoting drying. Therefore, the drying operation may be performed by appropriately distinguishing between using a fan and a heater depending on the type of liquid.

[0121] Inside the drying space SP and below the drying mechanism 73, there is a table 74 for holding a finger containing a nail as the object to be dried.

[0122] The stage 74 is formed, for example, of resin. Preferably, the stage 74 is formed, for example... Figure 2 As shown, ventilation slits are provided on the upper surface and sides of the mounting platform 74 to effectively dissipate air from the drying mechanism 73 (fan). Furthermore, the shape and structure of the mounting platform 74 are not limited to the example shown in the figure.

[0123] In addition, a finger sensing unit 75 is provided on the upper surface of the mounting stage 74, which serves as a sensing unit for sensing a finger when it is mounted on the mounting stage 74.

[0124] The finger sensing unit 75 is not particularly limited in its specific structure, as long as it can sense that a finger, including a fingernail (the object to be dried), is positioned at a predetermined position within the drying space SP (i.e., a state where the drying process can begin). For example, a contact sensor, a pressure sensor, or a button switch that generates a signal by pressing a fingertip can be used as the finger sensing unit 75. Alternatively, an image can be acquired by a camera capable of capturing images of the upper surface of the mounting stage 74 to sense the presence of a finger. Furthermore, in a configuration where the cover needs to be opened to insert a finger into the housing 7, the sensor and switch can react when the cover is opened, sensing that a finger has been inserted into the drying space SP.

[0125] like Figure 2 as well as Figure 3 As shown, the drying device 6 includes an operation unit 72, a drying mechanism 73, a communication unit 76, an action control unit 60, and other components.

[0126] The communication unit 76 is a communication unit that communicates with external devices. In this embodiment, the "external device" refers to the coating apparatus 1, etc. The communication unit 76 is configured to communicate with the communication unit 25 of the coating apparatus 1, which is the communication target. For example, it can perform wireless communication based on short-range wireless communication standards such as wireless LAN, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi, wired communication, or communication using network lines such as the Internet.

[0127] If the finger sensing unit 75 detects that a finger is placed in the drying device 6, the signal indicating that a finger is detected (finger sensing signal) is sent to the coating device 1 via the communication unit 76.

[0128] Furthermore, if the control unit 11 of the coating apparatus 1 sends an instruction to start the drying operation (start instruction) or an instruction to stop the drying operation (stop instruction) via the communication unit 25, the communication unit 76 receives the instruction and sends it to the operation control unit 60.

[0129] Furthermore, the motion control unit 60 can comprehensively control each part of the drying device 6, for example, starting or stopping the drying operation of the drying mechanism 73 according to the start instruction or stop instruction from the coating device 1.

[0130] In addition, the sensing results received from the finger sensing unit 75 are appropriately sent to the coating device 1.

[0131] [Coating system operation and coating auxiliary methods]

[0132] Next, refer to Figures 5 to 12CThe operation of the coating system and the coating assistance method in this embodiment will be explained.

[0133] Figures 5 to 7 This is a flowchart illustrating the coating control process in the coating system of this embodiment. Although the illustrations are omitted, in the coating control process of the coating system 100 of this embodiment, the coating apparatus 1 and the drying apparatus 6 can communicate with each other and cooperate. The following processing assumes that the coating apparatus 1 and the cooperating drying apparatus 6 are paired (mutual registration, authentication, etc.).

[0134] For example, the coating device 1 queries the drying device 6 to see if it can communicate with the machine, and can cooperate with the responsive drying device 6.

[0135] like Figure 5 As shown, in this embodiment, the coating apparatus 1 first acquires the contents of the nail application process in nail printing (the contents constituting the nail application process formation steps) (step S1). Regarding the contents of the nail application process, for example, if the user selects a design they want for nail formation (coating), the processes required to achieve the selected design with high quality are determined in the control unit 11. Alternatively, the user can change the determined processes according to their preferences. The contents of the nail application process also include the types of liquids used in each formation step (coating agents as the first coating material, inks as the second coating material, etc.). If there are multiple types of liquids (coating agents) that can be applied in each formation step, the user can be prompted to select one.

[0136] If the nail treatment information is obtained, the control unit 11 displays a guide on the display unit 23 prompting the user to apply and dry the base coat (step S2). Figure 8A This illustrates an example of the display screen 23a displayed on the display unit 23 under this condition. When multiple liquid agents (base coating agents) applicable in the base coating formation process exist, such as... Figure 8A As shown, it is preferable to display a prompt such as "The base coating agent applied is ○○." on display screen 23a. However, the specific layout is not limited to the example shown. Alternatively, an explanatory diagram showing the overall process of nail application (i.e., the overall flow of the base coating formation process → pre-print coating formation process → design formation process → top coating formation process) may be displayed on display unit 23. In this case, the color can be changed for the completed process, thereby visually indicating which process is currently in progress.

[0137] On the drying device 6 side, the motion control unit 60 monitors the sensing results from the finger sensing unit 75 and determines whether the finger sensing unit 75 has detected a finger placed inside the drying device 6 (step S3). Furthermore, the monitoring is repeated until the finger sensing unit 75 detects that a finger is placed inside. If the finger sensing unit 75 detects a finger (step S3: yes), the motion control unit 60 sends a finger sensing signal indicating that a finger has been detected to the coating device 1 via the communication unit 76 (step S4).

[0138] On the coating apparatus 1 side, the control unit 11 determines whether a finger sensing signal has been received from the drying apparatus 6 (step S5). If a finger sensing signal is received (step S5: yes), the control unit 11 sends a start instruction to the drying apparatus 6 to begin the drying operation (step S6). Furthermore, as described above, the start instruction for the drying operation sent from the coating apparatus 1 side can be a switch signal that directly turns on the drying mechanism 73 of the drying apparatus 6, or it can be a request to the operation control unit 60 to turn on the drying mechanism 73.

[0139] Preferably, when a start instruction is sent, for example, make Figure 8B The display screen 23b shown is displayed on the display unit 23. If the display screen 23b displays the start of drying and the time required for drying, it will be easy for the user to understand.

[0140] Furthermore, if the control unit 11 sends a start instruction, it acts as a time management unit and starts the timer (drying timer) for the elapsed time of the drying operation (step S7). Additionally, even if the finger sensing unit 75, which acts as a sensing unit, senses a finger, a slight time difference will occur until it notifies the coating apparatus 1 and sends a start instruction from the coating apparatus 1 to the drying apparatus 6. Furthermore, even if a start instruction is sent, it is not limited to immediately activating the drying mechanism 73. If the actual drying time is shorter than the elapsed time measured by the timer, it may be judged as having elapsed the necessary drying time, even though it is shorter than the actual required time. Therefore, to prevent insufficient drying time, it is preferable that the timer for elapsed time starts counting from a "predetermined time point" (e.g., a time point 2 or 3 seconds later) after the finger sensing unit 75 sends a finger sensing signal indicating that a finger has been sensed.

[0141] Furthermore, preferred options include... Figure 8B , Figure 8C As shown in displays 23b and 23c, where the remaining time changes as the drying time progresses, it is easy for the user to visually understand how much longer the drying process will continue.

[0142] If a start instruction is received from the coating device 1 on the drying device 6 side, the drying mechanism 73 is turned on and the drying operation is started (step S8).

[0143] On the other hand, the control unit 11 of the coating apparatus 1 determines whether the elapsed time measured by the timer exceeds the "predetermined set time" (step S9). If the elapsed time exceeds the "predetermined set time" (step S9: yes), a stop instruction is sent to the drying apparatus 6. The stop instruction instructs the drying mechanism 73 to stop its drying operation (step S10).

[0144] On the drying device 6 side, if a stop instruction is received from the coating device 1, the drying mechanism 73 is turned off, thereby stopping the drying operation (step S11). Preferably, when a stop instruction is sent to the drying device 6, the control unit 11 displays, for example, on the display unit 23. Figure 8D The display shown in screen 23d informs the user that the base coating has finished drying.

[0145] In addition, in this embodiment, Figure 5 Steps S2 to S11 are the “substrate coating formation process”.

[0146] In addition, such as Figure 5 As shown, steps S12 to S21 represent the process of "pre-printed coating formation process", and the specific content is roughly the same as the "substrate coating formation process" in steps S2 to S11.

[0147] Figures 9A to 9D These are display screens 23e to 23h that are appropriately displayed on the display unit 23 of the coating apparatus 1 during the "pre-printed coating forming process". The content displayed is roughly the same as that displayed on display screens 23a to 23d on the display unit 23 during the "base coating forming process".

[0148] If step S21 is completed, then the "base coating formation process" (i.e., the application and drying of the base coating agent) and the "pre-printing coating formation process" (i.e., the application and drying of the pre-printing coating agent) are completed. This concludes the process performed by hand before coating using coating apparatus 1 (the apparatus).

[0149] In this embodiment, the control unit 11, which is a process management unit, does not allow the coating apparatus 1 to coat the object (fingernail in this embodiment) until the elapsed time for the process prior to coating exceeds the "predetermined set time" (i.e., the time required for the liquid (coating agent as the first coating material) to dry). Only when the drying time of the "pre-printed coating forming process" exceeds the "predetermined set time" is the transfer to the design forming process of the coating apparatus 1 permitted.

[0150] Therefore, if the drying process of the "pre-printed coating formation process" stops, then as Figure 6 As shown, the control unit 11 of the coating apparatus 1 displays on the display unit 23 that the coating apparatus 1 is in a coating-allowed state and provides guidance for placing a finger in the coating apparatus 1 (step S22). Alternatively, a gate or the like can be provided at the opening 21 of the coating apparatus 1, so that the gate at the opening 21 is not opened until the coating apparatus 1 is in a coating-allowed state (i.e., until the drying time of the "pre-printed coating forming process" has elapsed), making it physically impossible to place a finger into the apparatus.

[0151] Figure 10A This is an example of a display screen 23i that allows the user to be informed of the transfer to the design formation process. Alternatively, the lamp 24 may be lit in red until the coating apparatus 1 is in a coating-permissible state, and then change color to green, etc., once the coating-permissible state is reached. In this case, the display unit 23 and the lamp 24 function as a reporting unit to indicate that coating of the nail, the object being coated, is permissible.

[0152] also, Figure 10B This is an example of a display screen 23j that notifies the user to position their finger within the coating apparatus 1 during the design forming process.

[0153] like Figure 6 As shown, the control unit 11 of the coating apparatus 1 senses whether a finger is placed in the apparatus (step S23). In addition, the sensing method can be arbitrary. For example, the camera 51 of the imaging unit 5 can capture an image of the finger placement unit 3 or its surroundings, and the presence of a finger can be confirmed by image analysis or other methods. Alternatively, a sensing sensor can be installed on the finger placement unit 3 and the output of a sensing signal can be observed.

[0154] Furthermore, if a finger is sensed to be placed on the device (step S23: Yes), the control unit 11 activates the coating mechanism 4 to form a nail design (coating ink as the second coating material) (step S24). Additionally, general details regarding the coating operation, such as the generation of coating data, are omitted here. Figure 10C This is an example of a display screen 23k displayed on the display unit 23 when a finger is sensed being placed on the coating apparatus 1. In this case, as... Figure 10C As shown, by displaying the message indicating the start of the coating action and requesting that the finger not be moved during the coating action, finger position deviation and trembling can be prevented even without physically fixing the finger with clamps or the like. In addition, since it is possible that the finger may be temporarily sensed but then move, it is preferable to start the coating action 2 or 3 seconds after the finger is sensed.

[0155] The control unit 11 determines whether the coating action has ended (step S25). If the coating action has ended (step S25: yes), the control unit 11 displays the completion of the coating action and the drying guide on the display unit 23 (step S26).

[0156] Figure 10D This is an example of the display screen 231 displayed on the display unit 23 in this situation.

[0157] On the other hand, on the drying device 6 side, similar to the "base coating formation process" and "pre-printed coating formation process", the motion control unit 60 monitors the sensing results from the finger sensing unit 75 and determines whether the finger sensing unit 75 has detected a finger placed inside the drying device 6 (step S27). Furthermore, the monitoring is repeated until the finger sensing unit 75 detects that a finger is placed inside. If the finger sensing unit 75 detects a finger (step S27: yes), the motion control unit 60 sends a finger sensing signal indicating that a finger has been detected to the coating device 1 via the communication unit 76 (step S28).

[0158] The control unit 11 of the coating apparatus 1 determines whether a finger sensing signal is received from the drying apparatus 6 (step S29). If a finger sensing signal is received (step S29: yes), the control unit 11 sends a start instruction to the drying apparatus 6 to start the drying operation (step S30).

[0159] Preferably, when sending a start instruction, for example, Figure 11A The display screen 23m shown is displayed on the display unit 23. If the display screen 23m displays the start of drying and the time required for drying, it will be easy for the user to understand.

[0160] Furthermore, if the control unit 11 sends a start instruction, it acts as a time management unit and starts a timer (drying timer) to keep track of the elapsed time of the drying operation (step S31).

[0161] If a start instruction is received from the coating device 1 on the drying device 6 side, the drying mechanism 73 is turned on to start the drying operation (step S32).

[0162] Figure 11B This is an example of a display screen 23n shown on the display unit 23 during the drying process. As with display screen 23n, if the remaining time of the drying process can be visually observed to decrease over time, it is easy for the user to understand, and therefore preferred.

[0163] On the other hand, the control unit 11 of the coating apparatus 1 determines whether the elapsed time measured by the timer exceeds the "predetermined set time" (step S33). If the elapsed time exceeds the "predetermined set time" (step S33: yes), it sends a stop instruction to the drying apparatus 6 to stop the drying operation performed by the drying mechanism 73 (step S34).

[0164] On the drying device 6 side, if a stop instruction is received from the coating device 1, the drying mechanism 73 is turned off, thereby stopping the drying operation (step S35). Preferably, when a stop instruction is sent to the drying device 6, the control unit 11 displays a display screen 23o, such as shown in FIG11(c), on the display unit 23, thereby informing the user that the drying of the ink used to form the design has been completed.

[0165] In addition, in this embodiment, Figure 6 Steps S22 to S35 are the “design forming process”.

[0166] Once the design is formed by the coating apparatus 1 and the coated liquid (ink for design) has dried, the process moves on to the top coating formation step.

[0167] like Figure 7 As shown, steps S36 to S45 represent the process of "top coating formation process", and the specific content is roughly the same as the "base coating formation process" of steps S2 to S11 and the "pre-printed coating formation process" of steps S12 to S21.

[0168] Figure 12A as well as Figure 12B These are display screens 23p and 23q, which are appropriately displayed on the display unit 23 of the coating apparatus 1 during the "top coating formation process". The content displayed is substantially the same as the display screens 23a and 23b displayed on the display unit 23 during the "base coating formation process", and the display screens 23e and 23f displayed on the display unit 23 during the "pre-printed coating formation process".

[0169] like Figure 7 As shown, if all the predetermined nail treatment processes from the "base coating formation process" to the "top coating formation process" are completed, the control unit 11 will display the meaning on the display screen of the display unit 23 (step S46) and end the process.

[0170] Figure 12CThis is an example of a display screen 23r shown on the display unit 23 at the end of all nail treatment processes. In this case, it indicates that the process up to the top coat formation step has ended. Furthermore, when treating nails one by one as in this embodiment, it is preferable to display a screen confirming whether there are any nails for which a nail design is desired. And, if the user still has nails for which a nail design is desired (…), Figure 12C If "yes" is selected in the selection, return to the previous page for that finger. Figure 5 Step S1 is repeated.

[0171] Thus, in this embodiment, since the liquids applied in each forming process (the coating agent as the first coating material and the ink as the second coating material) are not dried for the required sufficient time, the next process is not initiated, thereby preventing the user from performing the process prematurely before the liquids are fully dried.

[0172] Furthermore, when performing a treatment on the nails of all five fingers on one hand or all ten fingers on both hands simultaneously, information such as the user-selected design and the details of the nail treatment can be pre-stored in the storage unit 12 until... Figure 7 After step S46 is completed, starting from the second root's casting, from... Figure 4 Step S2 is repeated.

[0173] As described above, according to this embodiment, the coating system 100 includes: a drying device 6 for drying a first coating material (base coating agent, pre-printing coating agent) applied to the surface of a nail; a coating device 1 for applying a second coating material (design ink, etc. applied by the coating device 1) to the surface of the nail through the first coating material dried by the drying device 6; and a control unit 11 as a display control unit, which switches the guide display displayed on a predetermined display unit, i.e., the display unit 23, to a guide display for guiding the application of the second coating material after the drying of the first coating material applied to the surface of the nail has been completed or after a predetermined time for waiting for the drying to be completed.

[0174] If the liquid agent of the next process (second coating material) is applied while the first coating material (liquid such as coating agent or ink) is not sufficiently dry, the coated liquid will mix, or the coating design will not be well fixed and will flow or become misshapen.

[0175] In cases involving multi-layered forming processes, especially during the coating stage performed by coating apparatus 1 (coating of the second coating material), it is important that the liquid agent coated in the previous process is sufficiently dried (coating is performed on a sufficiently dried layer).

[0176] Regarding this, by guiding the application of the second coating material (the ink coated by the coating device 1) by the coating device 1 after the first coating material (the coating agent applied by the user by hand in this embodiment) has dried, it is possible to prevent the user from starting the coating operation by the coating device 1 when the material is not sufficiently dried. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the second coating material applied by the coating device 1 from dissolving into the previously applied liquid (the first coating material), thus preventing design distortions caused by the coating device 1, and enabling the production of high-quality nail prints.

[0177] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the application of the second coating material is allowed to begin after the drying of the first coating material applied to the surface of the nail has been completed or after a predetermined drying time has elapsed.

[0178] In this way, after the first coating material is applied, the coating action performed by the coating device 1 is not allowed until the drying time is completed (or the predetermined time is reached), thereby reliably ensuring the required drying time. Therefore, it is possible to achieve aesthetically pleasing nail printing.

[0179] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the nail with the first coating material applied to its surface is placed inside the drying device 6 for sensing. The time elapsed for the drying operation started by the drying device is timed based on the timing of the sensing. If the elapsed time exceeds a predetermined set time, the display of the display unit 23 is switched to a guidance display for guiding the application of the second coating material.

[0180] In this way, by timing the time the nails have been placed in the drying device 6 and guiding the transfer to the next process, the drying time can be more reliably ensured, and aesthetically pleasing nail prints can be achieved.

[0181] Furthermore, in this embodiment, if the drying process takes longer than a predetermined time, the application of the second coating material is permitted to begin.

[0182] Therefore, the drying time required for the first coating material can be reliably ensured, enabling high-quality finished nail printing.

[0183] Furthermore, if the commencement of the second coating material application is permitted, the means of informing the user of this information is not limited to switching the guidance display shown on the display unit 23. For example, the notification may also be made by sound, in which case, if the sound is audible, the user can know that the process can proceed to the next step even if they are not waiting in front of the display screen.

[0184] The drying time (“specified set time”) required for each step in the base coating process varies depending on the type of coating material (liquid such as coating agent, ink, etc.) (its components, etc.), making it difficult for users to determine the required drying time for each coating material (liquid such as coating agent, ink, etc.) and to perform the drying operation at an appropriate time.

[0185] Regarding this, in this embodiment, the drying time is set for each step (or each liquid) (e.g.) Figure 4 The control unit 11 manages the process based on the drying time correspondence table shown. Therefore, the liquid (coating agent, ink) can be dried properly in each process.

[0186] <Second Implementation Method>

[0187] First, refer to Figures 13 to 16C This document describes a second embodiment of the coating system, coating assist method, and procedure disclosed herein. Furthermore, this embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the drying apparatus 6 does not communicate with the coating apparatus 1. The following description primarily focuses on the differences from the first embodiment.

[0188] Figure 13 This is a block diagram showing the main control structure of the drying apparatus constituting the coating system in the embodiment.

[0189] like Figure 13 As shown, the drying device 6, like the first embodiment, includes a drying mechanism 73 comprising a fan, a heater, etc.

[0190] In addition, the drying device 6 is equipped with an action control unit 60 for comprehensive control of the entire device.

[0191] Furthermore, the drying apparatus 6 of this embodiment does not have a communication unit for communicating with external devices such as the coating apparatus 1. Since it is impossible to notify the coating apparatus 1 or the like whether a finger corresponding to the nail to be dried is arranged in the drying apparatus 6, it does not have a finger sensing unit for sensing whether a finger is arranged.

[0192] Furthermore, since there is no communication with external devices such as the coating apparatus 1, the opening / closing of the drying mechanism 73 cannot receive indication signals (i.e., start indication, stop indication, etc.) from the coating apparatus 1 or the like.

[0193] Therefore, the control unit 11 on the coating device 1 side serves as an acquisition unit, acquiring information indicating that the object (fingernail, and its corresponding finger) is arranged in the drying device 6 through user input operations.

[0194] Furthermore, if the control unit 11 receives information indicating that a finger (fingernail) is positioned within the drying device 6, it will act as a start indication prompting unit, prompting a start indication message to initiate the drying operation of the drying device 6. Specifically, the display unit 23 will display a message requesting the start of the drying operation.

[0195] In addition, the control unit 11, like in the first embodiment, counts the elapsed time from the start of drying. If the elapsed time exceeds the "predetermined set time", it serves as a stop indication prompting unit, prompting a stop indication message to stop the drying operation of the drying device 6.

[0196] The drying device 6 has buttons on the upper surface of the housing (not shown) to allow the user to switch the drying mechanism 73 on / off.

[0197] If the user operates the drying start button 81 based on the start indication information displayed on the display unit 23 of the coating apparatus 1, an operation signal is sent to the motion control unit 60, which turns on the drying mechanism 73 and starts the drying operation. Conversely, if the user operates the drying stop button 82 based on the stop indication information, an operation signal is sent to the motion control unit 60, which turns off the drying mechanism 73 and stops the drying operation.

[0198] Furthermore, the structure of the other coating apparatus 1 side is the same as that in the first embodiment, so its description is omitted.

[0199] [Coating system operation and coating auxiliary methods]

[0200] Next, refer to Figures 14 to 16C The operation of the coating system and the coating assistance method in this embodiment will be explained.

[0201] Figure 14 as well as Figure 15 This is a flowchart illustrating the coating control process in the coating system of this embodiment.

[0202] like Figure 14 As shown, in this embodiment, similar to the first embodiment, the coating apparatus 1 first acquires the contents of the nail application process in nail printing (the contents of each forming step constituting the nail application process) (step S51). Furthermore, the control unit 11 of the coating apparatus 1 displays a screen on the display unit 23. Figure 16A The display screen (23s) is displayed to guide the application of the base coating. If the coating is completed, the finger is placed in the drying device 6 for drying (step S52).

[0203] As described above, in this embodiment, since the drying device 6 and the coating device 1 do not communicate, the timing for the start of drying cannot be received on the coating device 1 side. Therefore, the display unit 23 can display, for example, a message prompting the user to operate the drying start button 81 if a finger is placed inside the drying device 6 after the base coating is applied, and provide an instruction to indicate that drying has started. Furthermore, the display unit 23 can also appropriately display a message requesting that pressing the drying start button 81 activate a "timing start button" or similar message to start the timer on the coating device 1 side. In this case, the control unit determines whether a message indicating that the drying start button 81 has been activated has been sent (step S53), and then determines whether the "timing start button" or similar message for starting the timer on the coating device 1 side has been activated (step S54). Additionally, the "timing start button" can be, for example,... Figure 16A The button displayed on the touch panel of the display screen 23s as shown could also be a button or the like that provided on the upper surface of the housing 2, similar to the operation unit 22. Furthermore, whether the drying start button 81 is operated by the user may not be sent to the coating apparatus 1. In this case, the control unit 11 determines whether the "timing start button" is operated (step S54). If it is operated (step S54: Yes), it is considered that the drying start button 81 of the drying apparatus 6 is also operated.

[0204] If the user operates the drying start button 81 of the drying device 6 according to the display of the display unit 23, the operation control unit 60 receives the operation signal (step S55) and starts the drying operation performed by the drying mechanism 73 (step S56).

[0205] In addition, the control unit 11 of the coating apparatus 1 determines whether the user has operated the timing start button (step S54). If the timing start button is operated (step S54: yes), the control unit 11 starts the drying timer (step S57). Figure 16B This is an example of a display screen (display screen 23t) that appears on display unit 23 when the "timer start button" is sensed to be operated.

[0206] Additionally, if the timer start button is pressed before the drying process begins, it may be mistakenly interpreted as the "preset time" having elapsed even though the required drying time has not yet passed. Therefore, the display screen at 23 seconds can also prompt the user to pay attention to the order in which the drying start button 81 and the timer start button are pressed.

[0207] The control unit 11 determines whether the elapsed time measured by the timer has exceeded the "predetermined set time" (step S58). If the time measured by the timer has exceeded the "predetermined set time" (step S58: yes), the display unit 23 displays a screen prompting the operation of the drying stop button 82 (step S59).

[0208] If the user operates the drying stop button 82 of the drying device 6 according to the display of the display unit 23, the operation control unit 60 receives the operation signal (step S60), and the drying operation performed by the drying mechanism 73 is stopped (step S61).

[0209] Furthermore, in this embodiment, Figure 14 Steps S52 to S61 are the processing of the "substrate coating formation process". If the "substrate coating formation process" is completed, the "pre-print coating formation process" is performed. Figure 14 Steps S62 to S71 represent the “pre-printed coating formation process”, and the specific content is roughly the same as the “base coating formation process” in steps S52 to S61.

[0210] If to Figure 14 Step S71 is completed, and the "base coating formation process" (i.e., the application and drying of the base coating agent) and the "pre-printing coating formation process" (i.e., the application and drying of the pre-printing coating agent) are finished. This concludes the process performed by hand before coating using the coating apparatus 1 (performed by the apparatus).

[0211] In this embodiment, similar to the first embodiment, the control unit 11, which is the process management unit, does not allow the coating of the object (fingernail in this embodiment) by the coating device 1 until the elapsed time for the process prior to coating exceeds the "predetermined set time" (i.e., the time required for the liquid (coating agent) to dry). Only when the drying time of the "pre-printed coating forming process" exceeds the "predetermined set time" is the transfer to the design forming process based on the coating device 1 allowed.

[0212] Therefore, if the drying process of the "pre-printed coating formation process" stops ( Figure 14 Step S71), then as Figure 15 As shown, the control unit 11 of the coating apparatus 1 displays on the display unit 23 that the coating apparatus 1 is in a coating-permissible state and guides the user to place a finger on the coating apparatus 1 (step S72).

[0213] Figure 16C This is an example of a display screen 23u on a display unit 23 that allows the user to be informed of the transfer to the design and forming process in this case.

[0214] Display screen 23u functions as a reporting unit to indicate that coating of the object (fingernail) by the coating unit (coating mechanism 4) of the coating apparatus 1 is permitted. Furthermore, the design forming process (the liquid (ink) coating process within the forming process) is performed in the coating apparatus 1 (step S73). Once the ink coating is complete, the process proceeds to the drying process. Figure 15 Steps S74 to S81 are the same as steps S52 to S59 of the “substrate coating formation process” and steps S60 to S69 of the “pre-printed coating formation process”, so their descriptions are omitted.

[0215] If the design forming process is completed, the top coating is applied and dried (top coating forming process) (steps S84, S85).

[0216] Additionally, similar to the first embodiment, if nail printing is desired for other nails as well, return to... Figure 14 The process is repeated in either step S51 or step S52.

[0217] Furthermore, since the descriptions of other points are the same as in the first embodiment, they are omitted.

[0218] As in this embodiment, even when the drying device 6 and external devices such as the coating device 1 are not connected in communication and cannot send or receive instruction signals, the user can be prompted by the display unit 23 of the coating device 1 appropriately displaying instructions, guidance messages, etc. When using a drying device 6 without a timer function to perform nail printing, the timer on the coating device 1 side and the data on the drying time required in each process can be effectively used to dry the liquid agent (coating agent, etc.) at an appropriate drying time.

[0219] As described above, the following effects can be obtained according to this embodiment.

[0220] That is, in this embodiment, a control unit 11 is provided, which functions as follows: an acquisition unit that acquires information indicating that the finger corresponding to the nail being applied is placed in the drying device 6 after multiple forming processes have been completed (nail application process); a start indication unit that prompts the drying action to be performed by the drying device 6 if the information is acquired; a time management unit that keeps track of the elapsed time from a predetermined time point after the information is acquired; and a process management unit that guides the transfer to the next forming process if the elapsed time exceeds a predetermined set time. As a process management unit, the control unit 11 allows the application of the nail by the coating mechanism 4 if the elapsed time for the forming process before the coating of the coating device 1 exceeds the "predetermined set time".

[0221] Therefore, even when external devices such as the drying device 6 and the coating device 1 are not connected in communication and cannot send or receive instruction signals, the user can be prompted by the display unit 23 of the coating device 1 appropriately displaying instructions, guidance messages, etc., and the timer function on the coating device 1 side can be used to effectively utilize the drying time data of each forming process on the coating device 1 side to dry the liquid agent (coating agent, etc.) at an appropriate drying time.

[0222] By using drying times corresponding to the liquids applied in each forming process (coating agents as the first coating material, inks as the second coating material, etc.), drying continues until the "prescribed set time" for drying has elapsed, preventing the user from prematurely entering the next forming process while the ink is not fully dried. This enables high-quality nail printing.

[0223] Furthermore, since time management of each forming process can be achieved using a drying device 6 that cannot communicate with the coating device 1, for example, even users who do not have a dedicated drying device for nail printing (nail dryer) can use a simple drying device as a substitute for a nail dryer. Even if they only follow the instructions shown by the coating device 1 in this case, they can perform the drying action in each forming process with an appropriate drying time that is either too long or too short.

[0224] Furthermore, the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, but the present invention is not limited to these embodiments, and various modifications can be made without departing from its spirit.

[0225] For example, in this embodiment, such as Figures 1 to 3As shown, the control unit 11 of the coating apparatus 1 performs various processes and interacts with the drying apparatus 6 when it is able to communicate with the drying apparatus 6. However, the control unit that interacts with the drying apparatus 6 is not limited to the control unit 11 of the coating apparatus 1.

[0226] For example, such as Figure 17 As shown, the coating system 200 may also have a terminal device 8 that cooperates with the coating device 1 and the drying device 6.

[0227] In this case, the terminal device 8 is, for example, a mobile phone, a tablet-type terminal device (hereinafter referred to as "Personal Computer"), a portable terminal device such as a mobile phone. However, the terminal device 8 is not limited to such portable terminal devices; for example, it could be a laptop PC, a desktop PC, etc., installed in a shop where the coating apparatus 1 is located. Furthermore, it is not limited to a device independent of the coating apparatus 1; it could also be an operating terminal integrated with the coating apparatus 1.

[0228] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the control unit 11 of the coating apparatus 1 is illustrated as functioning as the following units: a time management unit that times the elapsed time of the drying operation of the drying apparatus 6; a process management unit that guides the transfer to the next process when the elapsed time exceeds a "predetermined set time"; a display control unit that appropriately switches the display screen of the display unit 23 to a guidance display for guiding the coating of the second coating material (ink or other liquid); and a coating control unit that allows the start of the coating operation of the second coating material (ink or other liquid) performed by the coating apparatus 1. However, these functions are not limited to the control unit 11 performing these functions. For example, in the coating system 200, such as... Figure 17 In the case where a terminal device 8 is included as shown, the control unit (not shown) of the terminal device 8 can perform some or all of these functions. Alternatively, these functions can also be performed by the operation control unit 60 of the drying device 6.

[0229] Furthermore, the display screen used to guide the application of the second coating material is not limited to the display screen of the display unit 23; for example, a display unit may also be provided on the terminal device 8. Figure 17 The display unit 81) displays the information on its display screen.

[0230] In addition, it can also be done in Figure 17 The display screen of the display unit 81 of the terminal device 8 shown provides guidance for the coating of the second coating material.

[0231] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the control unit 11 of the coating apparatus 1 has a timer function. Since the drying apparatus 6 has a finger sensor 75, if the control unit 11 of the coating apparatus 1 receives a finger detected by the finger sensor 75, it instructs the drying apparatus 6 to begin the drying operation or to time the elapsed time since the start of the drying operation. However, the timer function is not limited to the control unit of the coating apparatus 1. For example, the operation control unit 60 of the drying apparatus 6 may also have a timer function. If a finger is detected by the finger sensor 75, the drying operation begins on the drying apparatus 6 side, and the elapsed time from the start time of the drying operation is timed. In this case, if the elapsed time exceeds a "predetermined set time," the drying operation of the drying mechanism 73 may be stopped, and a message indicating that the "predetermined set time" has been exceeded may be sent to the coating apparatus 1. If a notification that the drying time has exceeded the "predetermined set time" is received, the control unit 11 of the coating apparatus 1 causes the display unit 23 to display a state where the coating operation performed by the coating apparatus 1 is permitted, or it causes the coating mechanism 4 of the coating apparatus 1 to switch to a state where the coating operation is permitted.

[0232] Furthermore, the sensing unit is not limited to the finger sensing unit 75 of the drying device 6. Alternatively, if the finger sensing unit 75 senses a finger and this information is sent to the coating device 1 via communication, the control unit 11 on the coating device 1 can sense that a finger is placed inside the drying device 6 based on the received notification. In this case, the control unit 11 that receives the information that a finger has been sensed is the sensing unit.

[0233] Furthermore, for example, if the drying device is a device without communication function as shown in the second embodiment, it is possible to grasp the finger arranged in the drying device by utilizing the camera function of the terminal device that cooperates with the coating device 1.

[0234] In this case, the user only needs to operate the button to switch the drying device on / off, and the start timing of the elapsed time on the coating device side can be based on the result of finger recognition by the terminal device, etc.

[0235] Furthermore, even when the drying device is able to communicate with the coating device, the camera function of the terminal device that cooperates with the coating device 1 can be used to detect the presence of a finger inside the drying device.

[0236] In this case, it is not necessary to install a sensing unit such as a finger sensor in the drying device. Furthermore, when the terminal device is also an operating terminal that controls the coating device, if a finger is detected inside the drying device based on an image acquired by a camera, the terminal device can perform time-lapse processing and other procedures even without notifying the coating device.

[0237] Furthermore, the structure of the coating mechanism 4 of the coating apparatus 1 is not limited to having only a head 41 designed for coating, as in the above embodiment.

[0238] For example, the coating mechanism can be configured as follows: in addition to the design coating head 41, it also includes a base coating head for forming a white or similar (white, pink, or blue, etc.) substrate on the nail before design coating, a pre-print coating head for forming an ink receiving layer, and a top coating head for forming a protective layer. The base coating, pre-print coating, and top coating are also applied by the coating mechanism 4 of the coating apparatus 1. By having the base coating forming process, pre-print coating forming process, and top coating forming process performed by the coating apparatus 1, the manual coating process is eliminated, and uniform and aesthetically pleasing nail printing can be achieved.

[0239] In addition, in this case, it is assumed that the coating process performed by the coating apparatus 1 is the same as the design formation process described in the above embodiment.

[0240] The above describes several embodiments of the present invention, but the scope of the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, but includes the scope of the invention as described in the claims and its equivalents.

Claims

1. A coating system comprising: a drying device for drying a nail on which a first coating material has been applied to a surface and which is disposed within the device; and a coating device for applying a second coating material to the surface of the nail via the first coating material dried by the drying device, wherein... The coating system comprises: A sensing unit that senses the fingernail disposed within the drying device; The time management unit keeps track of the elapsed time of the drying action initiated by the drying device based on the timing configured by sensing the nail; and If the elapsed time exceeds a predetermined set time, the display control unit will switch the guide display on the predetermined display unit to a guide display for guiding the coating of the second coating material.

2. A coating system comprising: a drying device for drying a nail on which a first coating material has been applied to a surface and which is disposed within the device; and a coating device for applying a second coating material to the surface of the nail via the first coating material dried by the drying device, wherein... The coating system comprises: A sensing unit that senses the fingernail disposed within the drying device; The time management unit keeps track of the elapsed time of the drying action initiated by the drying device based on the timing configured by sensing the nail; and The coating control unit allows the start of the coating operation of the second coating material if the elapsed time exceeds a predetermined set time.

3. The coating system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The coating system includes a reporting unit that reports the intention when the coating action of the second coating material is permitted to begin.

4. A coating assist method, performed by a coating system comprising: a drying device for drying a nail on which a first coating material has been applied to a surface and which is disposed within the device; and a coating device for applying a second coating material to the surface of the nail via the first coating material dried by the drying device, wherein... The coating-assisted method includes: Sensing processing is used to sense the fingernail disposed within the drying device; The time management process counts the elapsed time of the drying action initiated by the drying device based on the timing configured for sensing the nail; and If the elapsed time exceeds a predetermined set time, the guide display on the designated display unit will be switched to a guide display for guiding the coating of the second coating material.

5. A coating assist method, performed by a coating system comprising: a drying device for drying a nail on which a first coating material has been applied to a surface and which is disposed within the device; and a coating device for applying a second coating material to the surface of the nail over the first coating material dried by the drying device, wherein... The coating-assisted method comprises: Sensing processing is used to sense the fingernail disposed within the drying device; The time management process counts the elapsed time of the drying action initiated by the drying device based on the timing configured for sensing the nail; and The coating control process allows the start of the coating action of the second coating material if the elapsed time exceeds a predetermined set time.

6. A storage medium recording a computer-readable program of a coating system comprising: a drying device for drying a nail on a surface to which a first coating material is applied and disposed within the device; and a coating device for applying a second coating material to the surface of the nail over the first coating material dried by the drying device, wherein... The program causes the computer to perform the following processing: Sensing processing is used to sense the fingernail disposed within the drying device; The time management process counts the elapsed time of the drying action initiated by the drying device based on the timing configured for sensing the nail; and If the elapsed time exceeds a predetermined set time, the guide display on the designated display unit will be switched to a guide display for guiding the coating of the second coating material.

7. A storage medium recording a computer-readable program of a coating system comprising: a drying device for drying a nail on a surface to which a first coating material is applied and disposed within the device; and a coating device for applying a second coating material to the surface of the nail over the first coating material dried by the drying device, wherein... The program causes the computer to perform the following processing: Sensing processing is used to sense the fingernail disposed within the drying device; The time management process counts the elapsed time of the drying action initiated by the drying device based on the timing configured for sensing the nail; and The coating control process allows the start of the coating action of the second coating material if the elapsed time exceeds a predetermined set time.

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