Device for connecting hair dye dispenser

Abstract

The present invention relates to a hair dye dispensing "HPD" device that can be connected to the Internet and used for professional hairstylogists to prepare their hair dye formulations. Hair dyeing is a process which needs several hours, accurate measurement, high attention to details and intelligent decision making are needed. More importantly, hair dyeing needs a large amount of product inventory so as to be convenient for a hairstylist to use. The invention aims to reduce product measurement errors, inventory and time spent on mixing hair dyeing components so as to improve the overall experience of hairstylorists and customers. Furthermore, the present invention provides the advantage of storing data from various client mixtures locally or within a cloud server, so that customers can obtain unified coloration.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 301,560, filed on January 21, 2022, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention relates to a hair dye dispensing "HPD" device which can be connected to the Internet and used by professional hair stylists to prepare their hair dye recipes. Background Art

[0004] Millions of people around the world color their hair. It is a common service offered in hair salons everywhere. The process begins with a consultation between the hairstylist and their client to determine what the client wants and the best way to satisfy their requirements. After the consultation, the hairstylist decides which formula to prepare in order to obtain the desired effect. The success of this process depends on the hairstylist's expertise in deciding the best formula, as well as the correct measurement of the ingredients required for this color. In theory, the hairstylist should keep a record of every formula and measure every required ingredient on a scale. In practice, this does not always happen.

[0005] Hair dyes fall into four general categories: permanent, demi-permanent, semi-permanent, and bleach or lighteners. Permanent and demi-permanent are oxidative dyes that require mixing the dye with a hydrogen peroxide solution to activate the color reaction. The hydrogen peroxide solution is often referred to as a "developer." From an ingredient standpoint, the main difference between permanent and demi-permanent hair dyes is that permanent hair dyes contain higher concentrations of alkalizing agents, which open the hair cuticle and allow the dye to penetrate deeper. As a result, permanent hair dyes are more effectively deposited into the hair than demi-permanent hair dyes, and therefore last longer and provide better gray coverage. For the most part, one of the most effective alkalizing agents used in hair dye is ammonia, however alternatives are often found in ammonia-free hair dyes, such as ethanolamine. For the most part, the ingredients used in permanent and demi-permanent hair dyes are very similar, just used in different concentrations (such as higher or lower alkalinity or higher or lower pigment loads).

[0006] Permanent and demi-permanent hair dyes are available in liquid or paste form, however most hair dyes on the market are available in paste form. Permanent and demi-permanent colors are used to achieve natural-looking colors and provide gray hair coverage. Permanent hair dyes can also be used to lighten the hair, depending on the alkalinity and concentration of the hydrogen peroxide solution used to mix the color. The higher the concentration of hydrogen peroxide in the developer, the greater the degree of lightening. Permanent hair dyes are usually mixed with equal parts of a solution containing 6% hydrogen peroxide (20 volumes), and demi-permanent hair dyes are mixed with a solution containing 3% hydrogen peroxide (10 volumes).

[0007] Semi-permanent hair dyes do not require an oxidation process to work and can be applied directly to the hair. The pigments used in this type of hair dye are called "direct dyes" and they are different from the pigments used in oxidation dyes. Semi-permanent hair dyes do not penetrate the hair and mostly stay on the surface of the hair. They provide a temporary effect and, depending on the concentration of the pigment, they may fade within a week to a month. Semi-permanent dyes are used to achieve strong, bright fashion colors such as neons and pastels. The last category of dyes are bleachers or lighteners, which do not actually dye the hair but have the opposite effect, they remove the color. This category usually works when a bleach in cream or powder form is mixed with a hydrogen peroxide solution. It is common for professional-use hair dye brands to offer more than fifty colors in each color series (permanent, demi-permanent and semi-permanent). Therefore, it is a considerable inventory investment for hairstylists to have a complete catalog of products in each color series, while also considering a larger inventory of the most commonly used colors in stock.

[0008] The most common use of hair dye is to cover gray hair and restore hair to its natural color. Hair dyes are a unique medium in that they have different processes depending on the type of hair they are dyeing. For example, the same "medium brown" hair dye will look completely different on two people with different hair characteristics. It is for this reason that hair dyeing has historically been the most difficult task for hairstylists, leading to the development of hairstylist experts who specialize in hair dyeing (professionally known as "hair colorists"). In one survey, only 59% of hairstylists reported being fully competent at the task of dyeing hair. To achieve the correct color, professional hair colorists must consider a variety of factors, such as natural hair color, previously dyed hair color, hair texture, hair porosity and the amount of gray hair, as well as the client's desired after-dye color. There are also formulation rules that affect the reaction between previously dyed hair and undyed hair.

[0009] A hair dye recipe or formula is usually made up of at least two different colors mixed in a specific ratio with a specific concentration of developer. Typically, a hairstylist will prepare two ounces of hair dye and two ounces of developer. For example, a hairstylist may mix one ounce of dark brown, half an ounce of medium brown, and half an ounce of golden brown with two ounces of 20 volume developer (6% hydrogen peroxide concentration). Once the hairstylist has come up with the right formula for the client, the mixing process begins. First, each ingredient required for the formula (hair dye and developer) must be accurately obtained and measured. Following the example mentioned earlier, the hairstylist needs to find tubes of dark brown, medium brown, and golden brown hair dye and 20 volume developer, and then measure each ingredient exactly as the formula calls for. In one survey, only about 44% of hairstylists measure their colors by weight, which is the most accurate way to measure.

[0010] The client-stylist relationship is often more important than the client-salon relationship. It is common for clients to follow their stylist when the stylist decides to move to a new location. The salon industry is changing rapidly as the benefits of smartphones and other technology allow stylists to now independently perform most of the tasks that were previously only handled by salons, such as marketing, booking appointments, and credit card charging. As a result, there are now more independent stylists than employed by salons. An estimated 55% of stylists are freelancers who either rent a cubicle in a salon or work out of a salon suite. As a result, independent stylists must rely on themselves to secure supplies, such as hair dye, and finance their own inventory. Many independent stylists visit beauty supply stores multiple times a month to minimize the impact of investing in too much inventory. Summary of the invention

[0011] The present invention relates to a system and method for a hair dye pigment dispenser "HPD". The HPD assists the hair stylist by automating the accurate and rapid preparation of any desired hair dye formula, while maintaining a record of the formula and tracking inventory usage to aid in restocking. In fact, an RFID tag associated with each cartridge cap allows the contents of each cartridge to be closely monitored by the system of the present invention, allowing automatic shipments of new cartridges to be set up and received before the hair stylist is even aware that any cartridge is running low, thus eliminating the stress of restocking altogether. It should be understood that the present invention is not limited to hair dyes, and may be used to dispense other beauty products.

[0012] In the primary embodiment, the invention can be physically interacted with through a touch screen, or remotely through voice commands or a wireless paired device such as a smartphone or computer. The presence of a speaker and microphone allows for audio features and audio interactions. In the simplest terms, the HPD receives the stylist's request, determines the amount of each product required based on the request, and prepares a formula that will achieve the desired effect.

[0013] All necessary ingredients for various hair dye combinations and hair dye types are contained in the traditional pressurized aerosol of the present invention and are combined with a valve that releases the contents under pressure when activated. The design of the HPD and hair dye pigment cartridges "HPC" and caps allows them to be used independently of each other. The cap can convert horizontal movement into vertical movement on the aerosol can valve. In one embodiment, the present invention includes a QR code label from a printer associated with the present invention. In other embodiments, the QR code is replaced by a liquid paper LCD display. The purpose of the QR code or liquid paper LCD display is to identify the contents of each cartridge to identify inventory, ownership of the cartridge and other label-based functions.

[0014] A basic premise of the present invention is that the number of ingredients required to prepare a hair dye formula can be significantly reduced. This is because the present invention works like an inkjet printer, relying on only 4 colors (cyan, magenta, yellow and black) to produce any desired color. In the present invention, the combination of primary colors (red, yellow and blue) mixed in a precise manner with basic neutral colors (black, brown, blonde) can provide millions of potential color combinations on demand. Another advantage of the on-demand color mixing provided by the present invention is that it reduces the need for excess inventory of individually packaged pre-made hair dyes. The present invention can also produce various levels of permanent dyes. For example, the present invention can mix permanent and de-permanent forms of the same color by simply adjusting the amount of ammonia (or other alkaline agent) as needed to obtain the desired result. In the case of oxidation dyes, the required basic ingredients will be formulated into traditional de-permanent colors with an additional, separate alkaline enhancer. HPD can also prepare the correct hydrogen peroxide measurement as needed.

[0015] The HPD can operate without any pumps or pipes that could clog, fail, or leak. Dispensing begins with the HPC into a holding bowl for the client's hair. Once the HPD recognizes the converted formula as a number of specific ingredients and the amounts of each required, it activates a stepper motor to turn the tray holding the HPC so that the correct ingredients are placed above the hair dye bowl, which sits on top of a scale. The scale measures the amount of each ingredient being dispensed. It should be noted that the terms "HPC," "hair dye cartridge," "cartridge," and "pigment cartridge" all refer to the same feature of the present invention and may be used interchangeably.

[0016] Once the HPC is in the correct dispensing position, the HPC can be activated when the linear stepper motor is powered and the servo structure pushes the pin upward into the cap through a small opening (in one embodiment, the opening is approximately 3-5 mm in diameter). This pushes the built-in structure, which activates the valve inside the HPC. Upon movement, the valve releases the ingredients contained in the cartridge and dispenses them into the bowl. Dispensing stops once the scale measures that the correct amount of each ingredient has been provided. This structure is detailed in Figure 5 of Appendix A and Appendix B. To stop dispensing, the controller stops powering the linear stepper motor, thereby eliminating the thrust and returning the pin to its initial state.

[0017] In an alternative embodiment, the function of the scale may be replaced or paired with a timer configuration that uses the length of time to dispense the product as a measure of how much product has been dispensed, in the same way that a home coffee machine uses time to determine how much water has been dispensed and how "strong" the brewed coffee is. Alternatively, the scale may be replaced or paired with a spectrophotometer that records data for reference regarding the absorption of light from the sample color versus non-absorption. This data is then sent to software that converts the recorded wavelengths of light into a formula for dispensing pigments in order to produce the same color as the sample provided.

[0018] In a preferred embodiment, a control printed circuit board "PCB" provides electrical energy to a linear stepper motor, which allows the motor to operate and push the pin forward into the cap of the HPC. The linear stepper motor has a threaded shaft, allowing it to convert rotary motion into linear motion. In addition, the use of a linear stepper motor allows for precise operation of the pin. The linear stepper motor provides the ability to control the speed and distance of movement of the actuator pin, rather than a simple open and close configuration. This design improves the accuracy of dispensing the correct amount of each product from the cartridge.

[0019] To ensure the cap is closed after the exact amount of product required has been dispensed, a load cell or high-precision scale located in a tray below the mixing bowl is connected to the PCB. Once the required product weight is detected, the scale transmits it to the PCB, which stops sending current to the linear stepper motor, pulling back the pin and closing the valve inside the cap to end the flow of product to the bowl. An RFID associated with each cartridge cap communicates with the PCB to ensure the correct product is dispensed and can notify the system if product has reached a low level within the cartridge and requires refilling. To ensure that no product is dispensed without the bowl, a camera capable of scanning a QR code on the bowl detects the presence of a container. If no container is present, the PCB is blocked from sending current to the linear stepper motor and no product is dispensed.

[0020] To properly position the different ingredients to be dispensed, the tray may contain a zero position indicator "ZPI" which may be a small magnet. The HPD has a position sensor "PS" in a fixed location which reads the ZPI or magnet when approached. The software powering the HPD may record the tray position when the sensor makes contact and mark it as position 0 and use this as a reference so that the stepper motor can perfectly position the tray at any target location for each ingredient being dispensed.

[0021] In one embodiment, trays holding multiple HPCs may be removable, rather than fixed to the HPD, to allow for easy switching of the type of ingredient used. For example, a stylist may remove a tray holding multiple oxidized HPCs at once and place another tray already filled with semi-permanent (direct) dye into the HPD, rather than removing them one at a time. Additionally, the HPD may contain a controller with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity and embedded software that manages the stylist's interaction with the device and how those instructions translate into actions performed by the different electronic components. The HPD may have an active but intermittent internet connection, either directly or via a smartphone, to sync data to the cloud, thereby facilitating inventory control and cloud-enabled functionality.

[0022] In the main embodiment, the present invention has Internet and Bluetooth connectivity capabilities. Located in the present invention and Figure 7 The PCB shown in (38) provides sufficient connectivity so that various data can be stored, accessed and used as input for color matching recipes. In some embodiments, the control PCB and all other PCBs included in the present invention may include a microprocessor. The microprocessor can play several roles, including but not limited to connecting to and powering the linear stepper motor to dispense product, storing and retrieving data from a secure cloud network space, and connecting to several other PCBs included in the present invention and / or independent units of the present invention to coordinate the flow of the system. Instructions for forming the desired color can be given to the present invention through input from the hairstylist, or through data from an external or internal database. The PCB enables Internet connectivity, providing the present invention with the ability to store and access data in cloud-based storage.

[0023] If a hair stylist has data on all of their previous hair dye recipes, this information can be uploaded to the present invention via Bluetooth, USB plug-in, or other methods, allowing the present invention to access the recipe used and reproduce the same color that the hair stylist previously created manually. The ability of the present invention to store and access data on previously desired hair colors allows for customer files to be stored to provide each customer with the opportunity to receive the same hair dye mixture from a variety of salons or hairstylists equipped with the present invention, regardless of location or time.

[0024] Several units of the present device can also be connected so that multiple systems can be used synchronously in a hair salon environment. This provides the advantage of sending and receiving inputs through a cloud network from a "controller" device, which can be a single system of the present invention, or a separate user interface such as a website or application accessed through a wireless interface, which in turn distributes tasks to several other units accordingly so that several different batches of hair dye can be completed at once.

[0025] The present invention may also be integrated with a website and / or application where stylists and customers can create profiles accessible by the present invention. When creating a profile, the user may be prompted to enter their status as a "stylist" or "customer" in order to categorize the user into the appropriate interface format. For the stylists, the application or website allows remote calibration of the present invention to ensure that each cartridge dispenses the proper amount of product based on the pigment it contains and that no errors are made before the desired color is mixed. In addition, stylists may access data regarding their most frequently requested colors, color approval ratings from previous customers, maintenance alerts (e.g., low battery, low product in cartridge), update availability, and other important notifications.

[0026] For customers, accessing the website or app allows them to submit reviews of their hair color, compare their previous colors, and "try out" new hair colors before receiving the coloring. After their most recent appointment, customers can upload images and reviews of the hair color they received through the Cloud Coloring Solutions network and provide details such as how accurate the final color was compared to the color they wanted, how well the color lasted, whether the coloring process caused any damage or structural changes to their hair, and how the overall experience was. These reviews can be associated with the specific system of the present invention from which they received their hair coloring. This allows customers and hairstylists to track the performance of the present invention compared to other units of the same device.

[0027] Customers may choose to keep their comments private for their own records or upload their comments to cloud storage where their stylist and the present invention can access them and determine any changes that may be beneficial for the customer's next appointment. Customers who choose to make their comments accessible to their stylist and the present invention can use their data and make comparisons between customers in order to help the stylist and the present invention make informed decisions about a new customer's hair. For example, a customer with straight, thick, naturally dark hair may comment that their recent hair coloring was perfect and upload an image of the completed new look. This information can then be used to find the same new color for the new customer with the same or similar baseline features. Based on the image and comments, the new customer can choose to receive the exact same color mix, perfectly measured by the present invention to match the desired look previously completed for the first customer.

[0028] Additionally, customers can upload an image of their hair to the website or app to "try out" new hair colors before selecting a color for an appointment. Customers can choose to adjust the tint of their current color or try a completely different image. Using augmented reality "AR" technology, customers can select new hair colors and styles to try on their images. When the customer finds a color they like, that information can be visually converted into a unique mix that is sent to the stylist and the present invention for their next appointment. Other data can be associated with the customer, such as hair type, hair thickness, and previous hair coloring experience, allowing the present invention to determine the exact proportions of each ingredient needed to produce the desired color for the customer. All customer and stylist data is stored and accessed through the cloud color matching solution network, which interacts with the present invention by connecting to the PCB.

[0029] The network used and accessed by the present invention typically has interconnections between the other components of the system, enabling them to communicate to share data, such as customer reviews and stylist input and instructions for creating hair color stored in a cloud database. The present invention may also be connected to one or more servers and processors to perform several functions related to computing tasks associated with the present invention, such as storing and accessing data, predicting needed changes based on customer reviews and other data, and creating a schedule for each customer's hair coloring journey.

[0030] Some of these elements may or may not be present, depending on the implementation, and may work independently or be integrated with each other accordingly. The memory associated with the cloud network and used to store data may also store software programs, such as operating system software and routines executed by the present invention and / or the accompanying processor. The memory may include read-only memory "ROM", non-volatile writable memory such as flash memory, and static, dynamic and / or magnetoresistive random access memory (respectively "SRAM", "DRM", "MRAM").

[0031] In the primary embodiment, the HPD may be powered by a rechargeable battery pack that draws power from a detachable power cord that may preferably have a USB to micro USB or another standard format and may accept a voltage input of 110-240v, allowing the invention to be used internationally. The purpose of using a battery pack is so that the HPD can be placed anywhere, even if there is no power outlet nearby. In an alternative embodiment, the invention may be adapted to use a standard power outlet. The USB-C port located on the invention may also be used to connect a data storage device, such as a hard drive, which allows the hairstylist to back up any data associated with the device for future reference, although the data may also be securely uploaded and stored via a cloud database.

[0032] Other features and aspects of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which illustrate features according to embodiments of the present invention by way of example. This summary is not intended to limit the scope of the invention, which is defined solely by the appended claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0033] In the accompanying drawings, various embodiments are shown by way of example and not by way of limitation. Having generally described the invention, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, in which:

[0034] Figure 1 This is an overview of the hair color dispenser "HPD".

[0035] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view of the hair dye dispenser "HPD".

[0036] Figure 3 Internal details of a hair dye dispenser "HPD" are provided.

[0037] Figure 4 Various properties of the allocation tray are displayed.

[0038] Figure 5A is a schematic diagram of the allocation structure.

[0039] FIG. 5B to FIG. 5CViews of the dispensing configuration are provided in a non-dispensing state (5B) and a dispensing state (5C).

[0040] FIG. 5D to FIG. 5H A detailed schematic diagram showing the features of the construction responsible for dispensing product from a hair color cartridge "HPC".

[0041] FIG. 6A to FIG. 6E Various angles of the interior and exterior of the invention are provided.

[0042] Figure 7 A view of the details of the present invention is provided.

[0043] Figure 8 is a detailed outline diagram of the base assembly of the present invention.

[0044] Figure 9A-J The exterior surface of the invention is shown from all angles.

[0045] Fig. 10A It is a cross-sectional view along plane A of the present invention.

[0046] Fig. 10B is a cross-sectional view of the invention along plane B, with detail view C.

[0047] Fig.11 is a cross-sectional view of a cartridge relevant to the present invention along plane A, with detail B.

[0048] FIG. 12A to FIG. 12E A turntable containing a hair color cartridge "HPC" is shown in different positions relative to the housing.

[0049] FIG. 13A to FIG. 13B Features of the construction responsible for turning the turntable are shown.

[0050] FIG. 14A to FIG. 14B The realignment configuration of the turntable is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0051] Figure 1 A general overview of a hair color dispenser "HPD" is shown. According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the HPD comprises a housing 1 having an attached lid 2, which is attached to the housing 1 by a hinge 30. The lid 2 opens to access the color cartridges and other components of the present invention, which are described in more detail in the following figures. An LCD 9 is also attached to the housing 1. From the LCD 9, the hair stylist can interact with the present invention to select a desired hair color, a desired permanence, and provide other instructions to the present invention and receive notifications from the present invention. At the bottom of the housing is a bottom tray assembly 10, on which rests a bowl 12, which receives the ingredients for the desired hair color mixture.

[0052] Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the HPD and its inner workings is provided. According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the interior compartment of the housing 1 with the cover 2 contains a rotating tray 3 which holds the cartridges 5 and is driven by a stepper motor 13 to rotate in order to position the correct ingredient over the hair dye bowl 12 located on the bottom tray assembly 10. Once the correct cartridge 5 is in the correct dispensing position over the bowl 12, the magnet 21 of the linear stepper motor 27 is powered and pushes the pin 31 into the cap 6 of the cartridge 5 through a small opening, which activates the valve in the cartridge 5, allowing the ingredient to be dispensed into the bowl 12.

[0053] To ensure that the bowl is in the correct position before any ingredient is dispensed, a ZPI construction is capable of detecting position, which ZPI construction can be a small magnet or other component. According to a preferred embodiment, a small magnet 20 acts as a position sensor located in a fixed position, which reads the ZPI or magnet when the ZPI or magnet is in close proximity. When the sensor contacts, the software driving the HPD can record the tray position and mark the tray position as position zero and use it as a reference so that the stepper motor 13 can perfectly position the tray at any target position for each ingredient to be dispensed. The tray 3 can also be removable, rather than fixed to the HPD, so that it can be easily removed to switch ingredients in use. For example, a hairstylist can remove a tray containing multiple oxidative HPCs and replace it with another tray that is already filled with semi-permanent (direct) dyes, rather than removing one cartridge at a time.

[0054] Other components that provide structural support for the present invention are the frame 4, the support 7, the middle plate 11 and the bottom plate 28. Behind the frame 4 towards the back of the housing is a speaker 16, which together with the microphone 19 enables the present invention to have several audio features. Voice commands provide the hair stylist with the advantage of not using their hands to control the present invention and allow for increased multitasking, thereby reducing the amount of time spent with each client, which for a hair coloring appointment may last for several hours. On the back of the housing 1 is a battery pack 29, which is accessible through the back of the housing and provides power to the entire system. According to a preferred embodiment, the battery pack 29 is removable and rechargeable, and it obtains power through a detachable power cord, which is preferably USB-C or other standard format, which can obtain voltage input from 110-240V to enable it to be used internationally.

[0055] Figure 3The internal details of the HPD are provided. According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, contained within the frame 4 and on top of the middle plate 11 or between the middle plate and the bottom plate 28 is an internal structure that contains the barrel RFID reader 15, the rotary stepper motor 13 and other components. The rotary stepper motor 13, the RFID reader 15, the position sensor 20 and the linear stepper motor 27 are located on top of the middle plate 11. Between the middle plate 11 and the bottom plate 28, there is a controller 14, a microphone 19, a speaker 16, a power button 17, a power adapter (female) 18 and a battery pack 29.

[0056] Figure 4 Various attributes of the dispensing tray are shown. According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the dispensing tray has five components. The uppermost portion of the dispensing tray is a plastic tray 22 on the surface of which the bowl 12 can be placed. The surface of the plastic tray 22 contains a plurality of holes to allow for any potential spills to be prevented from collecting at the bottom of the mixing bowl 12. In an alternative embodiment, the shape of the plastic tray 22 can be altered so that the sides of the tray curve upward in a bowl-like manner to prevent spills and the bottom is a continuous solid piece of plastic without holes. Below the plastic tray 22 is a metal tray 23 and a bowl QR code reader 26. Below the metal tray 23 and the QR code reader 26 is a scale 25 that measures the weight of the ingredients added to the bowl in order to provide the exact amount of each ingredient required. Below the scale 25 is a bottom metal tray 24. These components are combined together to form a tray on which the bowl 12 is located during the dispensing process.

[0057] Figure 5A is a view of the dispensing configuration. According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the dispensing configuration includes the desired cartridge 5, the cap 6 of the cartridge, the pin 31 and the linear stepper motor 27. The dispensing configuration is attached to the middle plate 11. Once the hairstylist has specified the desired output from the present invention, the desired cartridge is selected and the dispensing process is performed with the precise measurement required for the desired product. Once the correct cartridge 5 is in the correct dispensing position above the bowl 12, the magnet 21 of the linear stepper motor 27 is powered and pushes the pin 31 into the cap 6 of the cartridge 5 through the small opening, the pin 31 activates the valve inside the cartridge 5, allowing the ingredient to be dispensed into the bowl 12.

[0058] Figure 5B and 5CDepicted is the dispensing configuration of the present invention in a non-dispensing state (5B) and a dispensing state (5C). According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, when the pin 31 is in its resting position and is not activated by the linear stepper motor 27, the dispensing configuration (which is attached to the middle plate 11) is in a non-dispensing state. Since the pin is not activated by the linear stepper motor and pushed forward, the cap 6 of the cartridge 5 remains closed and no product is dispensed. The control PCB 38 may include a microprocessor that interacts with the linear stepper motor 27. When necessary, the PCB 38 and the associated microprocessor send electrical energy to the linear stepper motor, which converts the rotary motion into a linear motion that pushes the pin 31 forward into the cap 6. Once the cartridge needs to dispense the product into the bowl 12, the linear stepper motor 27 activates the pin 31, pushing the pin 31 through the designated opening and into the cartridge cap 6, where the actuator 54 is pushed to open the cartridge and dispense the product into the bowl 12 below.

[0059] To dispense the product in the cartridge, the linear stepper motor 27 converts electrical input from the PCB 38 into mechanical energy by creating a magnetic field that drives the pin 31 of the linear stepper motor 27 forward into the cap 6. The pin 31 opens the valve by pushing the direction 56 of the force on the pivot point 55 of the actuator 54. The actuator 54 converts the energy applied by the pin 31 into mechanical energy to open the valve of the cap 6, thereby dispensing the product in the cartridge 5 until the scale 25 or load cell 46 in the tray 3 reaches the desired weight of the product, and then the flow of electrical energy from the PCB 38 is cut off. If the RFID is not detected by the RFID reader 15 in the cap 6 of the cartridge 5 selected for dispensing the product, the dispensing configuration will not be activated and no product will be released.

[0060] Figure 5D -H shows the features of the construction responsible for dispensing the product in the HPC 5. According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, a living hinge based on a pivot point 55 is combined with the design of the actuator 54 so as to convert the horizontal force applied by the pin 31 into a vertical force that pushes the valve stem of the cartridge 5. The valve is then opened and the product in the HPC 5 is dispensed. To ensure correct alignment, a realignment system is used for the rotating tray 3. If, after completing the optical alignment, the pin 31 is not yet fully aligned with the actuator 54, the realignment system in the turntable 51 guides the pin 31 to the correct position of the cap 6, thereby preventing the pin 31 from getting stuck on the cap 6.

[0061] Fig. 6A -E provides different angles of the interior and exterior of the present invention. According to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the cover 2 is attached to the top of the housing 1 and the plastic tray 22 is attached to the bottom of the housing 1. On the front of the present invention, the logo lighting PCB 35 and the RFID reader 15 are located Fig. 6AThe bowl 12 can be placed on top of the plastic tray 22 and its presence can be detected by the QR code reader 26. Inside the housing, the turntable of the HPC 5 can be turned to position the desired HPC 5 in the dispensing position.

[0062] Fig. 6A A view of the interior of the invention from a diagonal angle is provided. From this angle, the frame 4 is shown, which provides structural support for the internal features. Also shown are multiple HPCs 5 and associated caps 6 attached to the bottom of each cartridge. Below the caps 6 of the HPCs 5 and above the middle plate 11 is a drip tray 41, which collects any accidental drips of hair dye if any cap leaks. Also shown from this angle are the base 25 of the invention and the plastic tray 22, with the bowl 12 sitting on top of the plastic tray 22. On the back of the housing 1, the battery pack 18 is shown. At the bottom of the invention, the speaker 16 and PCB 38 are shown.

[0063] Figure 7 A view of the details of the invention is provided. According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the lid 2 is secured closed by a magnetic clasp 34. Any opening of the lid is detected by a lid open sensor 33. The front portion of the housing 1 displays the logo of the invention and includes a logo lighting PCB 35. The RFID reader 15 is located near the logo lighting PCB. The housing 1 also includes a high gloss panel 36 where the LCD touch screen 9 is located. The QR code camera 26 is located in a position that allows it to scan a QR code located on the bowl 12. The invention is also capable of Bluetooth connectivity via a Bluetooth connectivity device 37. The "brain" of the invention is contained in a main printed circuit board "PCB" 38 located near the rechargeable battery pack 29 and the Bluetooth connectivity device 37.

[0064] PCB 38 provides internet connectivity for the present invention and allows for data to be stored in an internal, external or cloud database. The present invention can store and reference data such as customer reviews, previously mixed colors and instructional input from the stylist to optimize the overall future experience for the stylist and customer. PCB 38 also allows the present invention to receive software updates when necessary to improve the overall experience. The stylist can also remotely calibrate the present invention by connecting to the present invention's app or website profile, as well as receive notifications and alerts related to the status of the present invention, such as low battery, low product level or other necessary messages.

[0065] As shown in the previous figure, the entire dispensing structure 39 is located at the center of the present invention. An optical sensor 40 is located on the dispensing structure. A drip tray 41 collects any potential spills or leaks from the cartridge, preventing any damage to the mechanical structure. A USB-C port 18 is shown on the back of the housing to provide charging to the rechargeable battery pack, which is preferably a lithium battery pack. A cartridge cap 6 containing an RFID is shown on each cartridge 5 of the present invention.

[0066] Figure 8 Detailed outline of the base assembly of the present invention. According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the base portion of the HPD includes several technical aspects, such as a QR code scanning camera 26, a speaker 16, a camera PCB 42, a light sensor 45, and a control PCB 38. The QR code scanning camera 26 is embedded in the base of the present invention and scans a QR code located on a bowl associated with the present invention to ensure that it is in the correct position before any product is dispensed. The use of QR codes allows each bowl to maintain a unique function. For example, it may be useful to use one bowl to mix lighter hair dyes and another bowl to mix darker colors, or similarly, to use one bowl to mix permanent dyes and another bowl to mix semi-permanent or demi-permanent hair dyes. In this way, the use of QR codes allows a hair stylist to use a unique organization and classification system for mixed dyes. The camera PCB 42 can be connected to the control PCB 38 and share data about the scanned QR code. For example, a hair stylist may prepare a unique bowl for each customer. By sharing data about the customer and their unique bowl, the camera PCB 42 can determine which color to mix based on the QR code it scans, as that QR code has been associated with the specific customer's data.

[0067] Speaker 16 allows the present invention to interact with voice commands and provide alarm and notification sounds when activated. Light sensor 45 regulates the illumination of the logo on the front portion of the present invention, providing the ability to dim the light and have certain light colors, patterns or brightness indicate various states of the present invention. The base of the present invention is also equipped with several necessary structural components to enable the mechanical components to function, such as hex adapter 43, bearing 44 and bottom tray assembly 10. Hex adapter 43 and bearing 44 facilitate the rotation of turntable 51, allowing smooth rotation each time a new cartridge is selected to be dispensed.

[0068] Figure 9A-JThe outer surface of the present invention is shown from all angles. According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the base portion of the present invention can be removed from the housing 1 for routine maintenance. The cover 2 can be opened and remains attached to the housing 1 by a hinge 30 to allow easy access to the cartridge for maintenance and replacement. Figures 9A-D provide multiple views of the housing and bottom of the present invention. Figure 9B provides a view of the entire bottom of the base. Figures 9A and 9C provide back views, and Figure 9D provides a view facing forward. Figures 9E-G provide straight views of the back, side and front of the housing 1. Figure 9H provides a bird's-eye view of the cover 2 of the present invention. Figures 9J-I provide a top-down view of the housing 1.

[0069] Fig. 10A is a cross-sectional view of the present invention along plane A. According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a hexagonal drive 52 is implemented together with a stepper motor 13, an actuator sensor 48 and a linear motor 47 to rotate the turntable 51 and dispense the contents of the cartridge. The actuator sensor 48 converts the electrical energy provided by the power supply PCB 49 into physical energy applied by the linear motor 47, which converts the horizontal movement into a vertical movement in order to open the cap 6 of the desired cartridge 5. In order to position the desired cartridge in the dispensing position, the stepper motor 13 rotates the turntable 51 with the help of the hexagonal drive 52 and the bearing 44. In order to ensure that the cartridge in use is associated with the present invention, the RFID reader 15 is positioned so that it can scan each cartridge as it passes the dispensing position.

[0070] Within the bottom tray assembly 10 and beneath the plastic tray 22, a load cell 46 or scale 25 is located which measures the mechanical force of the bowl as it collects the product being dispensed and converts it into weight to accurately measure each ingredient. Behind the forward facing portion of the housing 1 is a light PCB 50 which provides power to the LED lights behind the translucent logo design and light sensor 45. On the back of the housing 1, a power switch or button 17 is located adjacent to the power PCB 49, battery pack 29, and control PCB 38. All of the mechanical features associated with the power supply are conveniently located at the bottom behind the dispensing area, which is easily accessed when the base portion of the present invention is removed from the exterior housing 1.

[0071] Fig. 10B is a cross-sectional view of the invention along plane B, with detail view C. According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, when the cover 2 is open, the cartridges 5 are loaded into the invention from the top. These cartridges are organized in a circular manner so that they can be rotated in a turntable 51 to position the desired cartridge in a dispensing position above a bowl placed in an open space above the bottom tray assembly 10, such as Fig. 10BThe dispensing structure is depicted in detail C. The structure includes a stepper motor 13, a linear motor 47, a hexagonal drive 52, a hexagonal adapter 43, a pin 31, a cap 6 containing an RFID, a cartridge 5, an RFID reader 15, a linear stepper motor 27, a pin 31, an actuator 54 and a control PCB 38.

[0072] Fig.11 is a cross-sectional view of a cap 6 and a cartridge 5 containing RFID associated with the present invention along plane A, with detail view B. According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, each cartridge 5 and its associated cap 6 containing RFID are unique in their association with the present invention. That is, due to the cap containing RFID and the RFID reader located inside the present invention, not all cartridges can replace those associated with the present invention. In addition, the RFID associated with each cartridge acts as a tag for the product contained in the cartridge to ensure that the correct product is dispensed. If the product content in the cartridge is low, it is transmitted to the PCB 38 via the RFID associated with the cartridge with the low content.

[0073] To dispense the product in the cartridge, the PCB 38 receives instructions from the hairstylist, which are either directly input into the present invention or sent from the hairstylist's wireless device via Bluetooth or cloud software. If the bowl 12 is detected by the QR code scanning camera 26 in the dispensing position, the PCB sends an electric current to the linear stepper motor 27 adjacent to the cap 6. The linear stepper motor 27 converts the electrical input into mechanical energy by generating a magnetic field, which pushes the pin 31 of the linear stepper motor 27 forward into the cap 6. The pin opens the valve by pushing the direction 56 of the force on the pivot point 55 of the actuator 54. The actuator 54 converts the energy applied by the pin 31 into mechanical energy to open the valve of the cap 6, thereby dispensing the product in the cartridge 5 until the scale 25 or load cell 46 in the tray 3 reaches the desired weight of the product, and then the flow of electrical energy from the PCB 38 is cut off. If the RFID is not detected by the RFID reader 15 in the cap 6 of the cartridge 5 selected for dispensing the product, the dispensing structure will not be activated and no product will be released.

[0074] Fig. 12A -E shows a turntable containing a plurality of HPCs in different positions relative to the housing. According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of HPCs 5 are fixed to a turntable 51, which can be rotated so as to position the correct HPC 5 in the dispensing position. When the cover 2 is in the open position, the turntable 51 containing the cartridge 5 can be removed from the housing 1 and can be lifted from the top of the housing 1 by its handle. Fig. 12A A turntable 51 containing a plurality of HPCs 5 is shown, which is completely removed from the housing 1 of the invention. Fig. 12BThe turntable 51 is shown relative to the housing 1 and the cover 2 . Fig. 12C The situation when the turntable 51 is removed from or inserted into the housing 1 is shown. Fig.12D Another view is provided when the turntable 51 is removed or inserted into the housing 1. Fig.12E In the figure, the handle of the turntable 51 can be seen in the center of the circle composed of multiple HPCs 5. This handle allows the turntable 51 to be easily removed from and inserted into the housing 1. Below the handle of the turntable 51 is the hexagonal drive 52, which is the part of the structure responsible for turning the turntable 51.

[0075] Fig.13A -B shows the features of the structure responsible for rotating the turntable. According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the center of the turntable 51 contains a rotating structure consisting of a hexagonal driver 52, a bearing 44 and a stepper motor 13. When an electrical signal is received from at least one of the multiple PCBs, the stepper motor 13 is activated. Then, the stepper motor 13 is pushed upward into the opening of the hexagonal driver 52 to rotate the hexagonal driver 52, and the hexagonal driver 52 rotates the turntable 51. The structure is held in place by the bearing 44. The curved, smooth and key-shaped design of the hexagonal driver 52 makes it easy for the turntable 51 to be placed in the correct position because it guides the matching key shape of the turntable into a position that allows some initial tolerance. The compact size and shape of the turntable 51 and the housing 1 prevent any potential misalignment with the hexagonal driver 52. Fig. 12A The stepper motor 13 is shown in a rotated position in which it is inserted into the hexagonal drive 52 . Fig. 12B The stepper motor 13 is shown in a disengaged position, in which it is not associated with the hexagonal drive 52 .

[0076] Fig.14A -B shows the realignment configuration of the turntable. According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the turntable 51 includes a realignment portion that ensures that the pin 31 is fully aligned with the cap 6 of the barrel 5 so that the pin 31 can open the valve and release the product in the barrel without getting stuck elsewhere in the cap 6. The linear stepper motor 27 pushes the pin 31 forward in a precise manner, and the linear stepper motor 27 can control the speed at which the pin 31 is pushed into the cap 6. If the realignment portion of the turntable 51 does not detect that the pin 31 and the cap 6 are fully aligned, the linear stepper motor will not be engaged and the pin will not be pushed forward until the correct alignment is achieved. If the alignment is off, the stepper motor 13 that rotates the turntable via the hexagonal drive 52 will continue to rotate the turntable in small increments until alignment is detected. Fig.14A A bottom view of the turntable 51 , the cap 6 of the barrel 5 , and the rotating structure including the stepper motor 13 , the hexagonal drive 52 , and the bearing 44 is provided. Fig. 14BA close up view of the cap 6 is shown in the realignment portion of the turntable 51 with the pin 31 aligned with the cap 6 for dispensing.

[0077] Although various embodiments of the disclosed technology have been described above, it should be understood that they are presented by way of example only and are not restrictive. Similarly, various figures may depict example architectures or other configurations of the disclosed technology, which is done to help understand the features and functions that may be included in the disclosed technology. The disclosed technology is not limited to the example architectures or configurations shown, but various alternative architectures and configurations may be used to achieve the desired features. In fact, it is obvious to those skilled in the art how to implement alternative functional, logical or physical partitions and configurations to achieve the desired features of the technology disclosed herein. In addition, in addition to those described herein, many different component module names may be applied to various partitions. In addition, with respect to flowcharts, operational descriptions, and method claims, unless otherwise indicated by the context, the order of the steps presented herein should not require the implementation of various embodiments to perform the functions in the same order.

[0078] Although the disclosed technology is described above in terms of various exemplary embodiments and implementations, it should be understood that the various features, aspects, and functions described in one or more individual embodiments are not limited to their applicability to the specific embodiments in which they are described, but can be applied to one or more other embodiments of the disclosed technology, either alone or in various combinations, whether or not such embodiments are described, and whether or not such features are presented as part of the described embodiments. Therefore, the breadth and scope of the technology disclosed herein should not be limited by any of the above-described exemplary embodiments.

[0079] Unless expressly stated otherwise, the terms and phrases used herein and variations thereof should be interpreted as open ended, not restrictive. As examples of the foregoing: the term "including" should be interpreted as meaning "including but not limited to" and the like; the term "example" is used to provide an illustrative example of the item in question, rather than an exhaustive or limiting list thereof; the term "one" or "an" should be understood to mean "at least one," "one or more," and the like; and adjectives such as "conventional," "traditional," "normal," "standard," "known," and terms of similar meaning should not be interpreted as limiting the items described to a given time period or items available as of a given time, but should be understood to include conventional, traditional, normal, or standard technologies available or known now or at any time in the future. Similarly, when this document refers to technologies that are obvious or known to a person of ordinary skill in the art, such technologies include those technologies that are obvious or known to a person of ordinary skill in the art now or at any time in the future.

Claims

1. A device for enabling a hair stylist to dispense a plurality of hair dye pigments into a container, the device comprising: A plurality of removable pigment cartridges fixed on the rotatable platform, the plurality of pigment cartridges containing a plurality of hair dye pigments; a platform rotation motor, mechanically connected to the rotatable platform; the container formed to collect dispensed product from the pigment cartridge; a scale for weighing the container; a plurality of computer-controlled dispensing structures for dispensing the plurality of hair coloring pigments under the control of a first computing device; and A plurality of computing devices, each computing device comprising a processor and a memory, for: receiving data from a plurality of independent user interfaces, the data being associated with a previous hair dye combination request, receiving instructions for hair dye pigment requests from the plurality of independent user interfaces, Sending data related to previous hair color orders to multiple independent user interfaces, store data related to previous hair coloring requests, and In response to data from the scale, the plurality of computer-controlled dispensing structures are operated to simultaneously activate and deactivate at least one of the plurality of computer-controlled dispensing structures to release at least one of the plurality of hair coloring pigments in an amount determined by a formulation of a desired product.

2. The device of claim 1, wherein the plurality of pigment cartridges contain dispensable beauty products other than hair coloring pigments.

3. The device of claim 1, wherein the container comprises a unique quick response QR code.

4. The device of claim 3, wherein the single hair dye dispenser is equipped with a camera capable of scanning the unique QR code on the container.

5. The device according to claim 1, wherein: The plurality of computing devices are equipped with Internet and Bluetooth connections for interacting with a plurality of hair colorists.

6. The device of claim 1, wherein the cap of the pigment cartridge includes a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag.

7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the plurality of computer-controlled dispensing configurations further comprises: Linear stepper motor; pin, controlled by the linear stepper motor; an actuator configured to open the valve when pressure is applied to the actuator via the pin; the valve, opened to dispense product from the pigment cartridge; and An alignment structure is provided to align the pin with the cover of the pigment cartridge on the rotatable platform.

8. The device of claim 1, wherein the hair coloring dispenser is equipped with at least one RFID scanner capable of detecting the RFID tag in the cap of the coloring cartridge.

9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the high precision scale confirms that each of the plurality of hair coloring pigments is added to the container in an amount required by the formula.

10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the hair dye dispenser further comprises a separate user interface, the user interface enabling a user to select a desired hair dye and request the desired hair dye from the hair dye dispenser.

11. A method of dispensing hair dye from a hair dye dispenser, the method comprising: A plurality of removable pigment cartridges fixed on the rotatable platform, the plurality of pigment cartridges containing a plurality of hair dye pigments; a platform rotation motor, mechanically connected to the rotatable platform; the container for collecting dispensed product from the pigment cartridge; a scale for weighing the container; a plurality of computer-controlled dispensing structures for dispensing the plurality of hair coloring pigments under the control of a first computing device; and A plurality of computing devices, each computing device comprising a processor and a memory, for: receiving data from a plurality of independent user interfaces, the data being associated with a previous hair dye combination request, receiving instructions for hair dye pigment requests from the plurality of independent user interfaces, Sending data related to previous hair color orders to multiple independent user interfaces, store data related to previous hair coloring requests, and In response to data from the scale, the plurality of computer-controlled dispensing structures are operated to simultaneously activate and deactivate at least one of the plurality of computer-controlled dispensing structures to release at least one of the plurality of hair coloring pigments in an amount determined by a formulation of a desired product.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein the plurality of color cartridges contain dispensable cosmetic products other than hair coloring color.

13. The method of claim 11, wherein the container comprises a unique quick response QR code.

14. The method of claim 11, wherein the single hair dye dispenser is equipped with a camera capable of scanning the unique QR code on the container.

15. The method of claim 11, wherein the cap of the pigment cartridge comprises a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag.

16. The method of claim 11, wherein said plurality of computer controlled dispensing configurations further comprises: Linear stepper motor; pin, controlled by the linear stepper motor; an actuator configured to open the valve when pressure is applied to the actuator via the pin; the valve, opened to dispense product from the pigment cartridge; and An alignment structure is provided to align the pin with the cover of the pigment cartridge on the rotatable platform.

17. The method of claim 11, wherein the hair color dispenser is equipped with at least one RFID scanner capable of detecting the RFID tag in the cap of the color cartridge.

18. An apparatus for enabling a hair dye dispenser to dispense, receive and execute requests for a plurality of hair dye formulations, comprising: The hair dye dispenser is capable of receiving requests from one or more of a plurality of independent user interfaces; A plurality of printed circuit boards PCB, at least one of which is capable of activating a distribution structure, the distribution structure comprising: A linear stepper motor that pushes the pin into the cover of the pigment cartridge; The pin is capable of opening the valve of the cover of the pigment cartridge by applying pressure to the actuator; The pigment cartridge dispenses the hair dye pigment into the container; a scale located on top of the container, the scale configured to weigh the contents of the container and determine when a correct amount of at least one of the plurality of hair coloring pigments has been dispensed into the container; The scale is connected to at least one of the plurality of PCBs, and; The PCB deactivates the linear stepper motor when the correct weight of the hair dye in the container is detected.

19. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein at least one of said plurality of PCBs is equipped with an Internet and Bluetooth connection for interacting with a plurality of said independent user interfaces.

20. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the plurality of independent user interfaces may be personal wireless devices supporting Internet and Bluetooth connectivity.

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