Personal care appliance with motor speed dependent pressure analysis pattern

Abstract

An electric personal care device configured for a user to perform personal care procedures provides at least two operating modes, each operating mode defining the operating speed of the device's motor and the pressure range used by the device's pressure analysis device, and wherein the at least two operating modes define different operating speeds and different pressure ranges.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of personal care, and more particularly to the field of personal care devices. Background Technology

[0002] Personal care devices can be operated in different ways to achieve different results desired by the user. The achieved results will depend on the selected device settings and how the user handles the device. Users of personal care devices can prefer different settings based on the results they want to achieve and based on their skin type or body type. For example, in the case of an electric shaver, depending on the user's beard length and skin sensitivity, the user may want a stronger or gentler shaving experience. These different expected effects will typically correspond to different selected settings on the electric shaver.

[0003] For any given personal care device, there can be multiple different operating parameters, which users can adjust in the device's settings. These parameters may interact in different ways, resulting in varying treatment effects and different user perceptions of the treatment. Some parameters may affect the treatment effect, but the user may not be able to perceive it during treatment. Therefore, it is difficult for users to correctly select the desired settings to achieve their desired treatment effect. When multiple settings are involved, selecting the correct combination of settings becomes even more inconvenient for users.

[0004] US 2017 / 0143165 A1 discloses a handheld household appliance including a handle portion, a drive member, a motor for driving the drive member, and a controller for controlling the motor. The handle portion includes a surface sensor for detecting a contact surface area and optionally, pressure applied to the surface sensor. The controller is adapted to control the power supplied to the motor based on the detected contact surface area and optionally, on the detected pressure applied to the surface sensor.

[0005] US 2022 / 0331079 A1 discloses an electric toothbrush device including: means for generating vibrations of a toothbrush head; means for generating an orientation signal indicating an area of ​​the oral cavity being brushed; and means for generating a pressure signal indicating pressure applied to the toothbrush head. The device also includes a processing unit arranged to correlate the value of the orientation signal with the value of the pressure signal to provide feedback to a user related to the pressure applied to each of a plurality of different areas of the oral cavity. The device further includes a control module arranged to control the rotational speed of a motor based on the pressure signal. When the pressure signal indicates an increase in applied pressure, the control module can reduce the vibration speed of the toothbrush head. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This invention is defined by the claims.

[0007] According to an example of one aspect of the invention, an electric personal care device configured for a user to perform personal care procedures is provided.

[0008] The electric personal care device includes: a processing unit arranged to be held against a user's body part during personal care treatment; a motor configured to drive the processing unit to move at different operating speeds; a pressure sensor configured to measure applied pressure, which is used during personal care treatment when the processing unit is held against the body part; a pressure analysis device configured to determine whether the applied pressure measured by the pressure sensor is within a pressure range; a pressure indicator configured to indicate to the user by means of an identifier whether the applied pressure measured by the pressure sensor is within a pressure range; and a control unit configured to control the device to operate in at least first and second different operating modes, wherein the first and second operating modes respectively define first and second different operating speeds of the motor. According to the invention, the first and second different operating modes also respectively define first and second different pressure ranges, wherein the first and second pressure ranges each extend from a corresponding lower pressure threshold to a corresponding upper pressure threshold. The pressure analysis device is configured to determine whether the applied pressure measured by the pressure sensor is within the pressure range defined by the selected operating mode when the device is controlled to operate in at least the first and second different operating modes; and the pressure indicator is configured to indicate to the user, by means of the indicator, whether the applied pressure measured by the pressure sensor is within the pressure range defined by the selected operating mode when the device is controlled to operate in at least the first and second different operating modes.

[0009] Therefore, the proposed concept aims to provide schemes, solutions, concepts, designs, methods, and systems related to personal care devices configured for users to perform personal care procedures.

[0010] In particular, the embodiments aim to provide an electric personal care device having at least two operating modes, wherein each operating mode defines an operating speed and pressure range of the device, such that the at least two operating modes define different operating speeds and different pressure ranges.

[0011] In other words, the device is configured to allow the motor driving the processing unit to move to operate at different speeds, and provides a pressure analysis unit that analyzes data from a pressure sensor to determine whether the pressure applied by the device is within a specific pressure range. Specifically, a pressure indicator instructs the user whether they are operating the device optimally to ensure that the pressure used to keep the processing unit against the body is within the pressure range defined by the selected operating mode. Therefore, the indicator provided by the pressure indicator indicates whether the applied pressure measured by the pressure sensor is within the pressure range defined by the selected operating mode. Specifically, this indicator is predetermined. When the device is controlled to operate in a first operating mode, the indicator indicates whether the applied pressure measured by the pressure sensor is within the first pressure range defined by the first operating mode. When the device is controlled to operate in a second operating mode, the indicator indicates whether the applied pressure measured by the pressure sensor is within the second pressure range defined by the second operating mode. In the proposed embodiment, the device is provided with a control unit that can control the device to operate in any of a variety of different operating modes, each defining the operating speed of the motor and the optimal pressure range for the pressure analysis unit. Therefore, different operating modes are provided for the device, allowing users to adjust its operation to suit their preferences. By offering defined operating modes with pre-selected operating speeds and pressure ranges, the user experience is simplified, and users are more likely to control the device settings to achieve the processing results they need.

[0012] The operating speed of a device and the pressure used to hold the processing components against the user's body significantly impact the user experience while operating the device. Faster operating speeds result in a greater perceived processing intensity, while slower operating speeds result in a lower perceived processing intensity. The pressure used to hold the device against the user's body greatly influences the results achieved. For example, in the case of a toothbrush, the pressure used to hold the brush head against the user's teeth and gums significantly affects the effectiveness of the cleaning procedure. Therefore, speed and pressure are generally important attributes in user experience. By providing different operating modes to define different speeds and optimal pressure ranges for the device, the proposed invention enables simultaneous control of these two attributes.

[0013] In summary, by providing operating modes to the device to set the operating speed of its electric components and define the optimal pressure range, the user experience can be simplified. Users no longer need to manually select the desired pressure range or speed; instead, they simply choose a mode based on the desired shaving results. For example, in a shaving device, a "gentle" mode could be provided for users with sensitive skin seeking a mild shave, defining a low cutting speed and a low optimal pressure range; while a "powerful" mode could be provided for users with thick beards seeking a closer shave, defining a higher cutting speed and a higher optimal pressure range. It is anticipated that the device could have any number of different operating modes, each with a different operating speed and optimal pressure range.

[0014] Ultimately, the proposed concepts could support an improved electric personal care device for users to perform personal care.

[0015] In some embodiments, the device may further include a user interface that allows a user to select at least one of a first and a second operating mode, wherein the control element is configured to control the device to operate in the user-selected operating mode. This improves the user experience by enabling the user to control the selected operating mode. In some embodiments, the pressure indicator is a light-emitting device configured to: emit light of a first color when the measured applied pressure is less than a lower pressure threshold of the pressure range defined by the selected operating mode; emit light of a second color different from the first color when the measured applied pressure is greater than the lower pressure threshold of the pressure range defined by the selected operating mode but less than an upper pressure threshold; and emit light of a third color different from the first and second colors when the measured applied pressure is greater than the upper pressure threshold of the pressure range defined by the selected operating mode. In this way, the user is provided with a visual indication of whether the pressure they use to press the personal care device onto themselves is too high, too low, or within the desired range.

[0016] In some embodiments, the pressure indicator may utilize at least one of the following: an audio signal; a visual signal; and a tactile signal. In this way, a user can know, by hearing, by sight, or by tactile signal, whether the pressure they use to keep the processing part of the device against their body is within the desired pressure range defined by the selected operating mode.

[0017] In some embodiments, the treatment component may be at least one of the following: a shaving unit; a skin care unit; a beard trimming unit; a long-hair trimming unit; a toothbrush head; and a cleaning brush. In this way, a treatment component suitable for the personal care treatment being performed can be provided. In some embodiments, the device may include: a main housing housing a motor; at least two distinct processing units, each selectively coupled to the main housing for being driven by the motor; and a detection device configured to generate a detection signal indicating which of the at least two distinct processing units is coupled to the main housing; wherein a control unit is configured to receive the detection signal and select an operating mode from at least first and second distinct operating modes based on the detection signal. Therefore, the selected device operating mode may depend on the type of processing unit employed. In some embodiments, the control unit may be configured to preselect one set of at least first and second different operating modes from at least two different sets of at least first and second different operating modes based on a detection signal. The device may also include a user interface configured to allow a user to select an operating mode from the preselected set of at least first and second different operating modes. In this way, several different sets of operating modes corresponding to different possible processing units that may be coupled to the device can be provided. Therefore, an appropriate operating mode can be provided to the user for selection, thereby helping to avoid selecting an inappropriate / incorrect operating mode for the processing unit employed.

[0018] In some embodiments, the electric personal care device may be at least one of the following: a razor, a hair clipper, a beard trimmer, an epilator, and an electric toothbrush. In this way, the invention may relate to any of a number of different electric personal care devices. In some embodiments, the first operating speed defined by the first operating mode is less than the second operating speed defined by the second operating mode; and the first downward pressure threshold defined by the first operating mode is less than the second downward pressure threshold defined by the second operating mode; and / or the first upward pressure threshold defined by the first operating mode is less than the second upward pressure threshold defined by the second operating mode. Therefore, the device is provided with a high-intensity mode and a low-intensity mode. The high-intensity mode defines a relatively fast operating speed and a relatively high optimal pressure, while the low-intensity mode defines a relatively slow operating speed and a relatively low optimal pressure. In some embodiments, the control unit can be configured to further control the device to operate in a third operating mode different from the first and second operating modes, wherein: the third operating mode defines a third operating speed greater than the second operating speed; and wherein: the third operating mode defines a third downward pressure threshold greater than the second downward pressure threshold; and / or the third operating mode defines a third upward pressure threshold greater than the second upward pressure threshold. This achieves a third, higher-intensity mode, giving the device three available modes and thus providing the user with three levels of intensity experience.

[0019] In some embodiments, the electric personal care device may be an electric shaver, and the first operating speed is 1900 rpm, the second operating speed is 2100 rpm, and the third operating speed is 2300 rpm. In this way, an electric shaver with three different operating speeds (corresponding to three different operating modes) is provided.

[0020] In some embodiments, the electric personal care device may be an electric shaver, and the first downpressure threshold is 1 N, the second downpressure threshold is 1.5 N, and the third downpressure threshold is 2 N. In this way, the three operating modes of the electric shaver can define pressure ranges with three different downpressure thresholds.

[0021] In some embodiments, the electric personal care device may be an electric shaver, and the first uppressure threshold is 3 N, the second uppressure threshold is 4 N, and the third uppressure threshold is 5 N.

[0022] In some embodiments, the control unit can be configured to further control the device to operate in a custom operating mode, wherein a user can select the operating speed and pressure range defined by the custom operating mode. In this way, a customization setting is provided, whereby a user can select the operating speed and pressure range according to their personal preferences. In some embodiments, the control unit can also be configured to control the device to operate in an energy-saving operating mode, wherein: the energy-saving operating speed defined by the energy-saving operating mode is lower than the operating speeds defined by at least first and second different operating modes; and, when the device is controlled to operate in the energy-saving operating mode, the pressure analysis device is disabled. In this way, the device is provided with a power-saving mode that sets a lower operating speed for the motor and disables the pressure feedback system to improve the energy efficiency of the device.

[0023] Therefore, a proposed concept can be used to provide an electric personal care device configured for a user to perform personal care procedures, the device having at least first and second operating modes, the first and second operating modes defining first and second different operating speeds and first and second different pressure ranges, respectively.

[0024] These and other aspects of the invention will be apparent from and illustrated by reference to the embodiments described below. Attached Figure Description

[0025] To better understand the invention and to more clearly illustrate how it can be translated into effects, reference is now made to the accompanying drawings by way of example only, wherein:

[0026] Figure 1This is a simplified block diagram of an electric personal care device according to the proposed embodiment;

[0027] Figure 2 This is a simplified flowchart of the operating scheme for an electric personal care device according to the proposed embodiment;

[0028] Figure 3 It is a graphical depiction of three operating modes according to the proposed embodiments; and

[0029] Figure 4 This is a schematic perspective view of an example electric shaver according to the proposed embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0030] The invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0031] It should be understood that although the detailed description and specific examples indicate exemplary embodiments of the apparatus, system, and method, they are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the apparatus, system, and method of the present invention will be better understood from the following description, the appended claims, and the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the drawings are schematic only and not drawn to scale. It should also be understood that all drawings use the same reference numerals to indicate the same or similar parts.

[0032] By studying the accompanying drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims, those skilled in the art can understand and implement various modifications to the disclosed embodiments. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite articles "a" or "an" do not exclude a plurality.

[0033] Implementations of this disclosure relate to various techniques, methods, approaches, and / or solutions associated with an electric personal care device configured for personal care procedures performed by a user. Based on the proposed concepts, numerous possible solutions can be implemented individually or in combination. That is, although these possible solutions may be described separately below, two or more of them may be implemented in one or more combinations.

[0034] Embodiments of the present invention aim to provide a personal care device configured for a user to perform personal care treatments. This device can be controlled to operate in different operating modes, each defining a different operating speed and a different pressure range. A pressure analysis unit uses the defined pressure range to analyze pressure data from pressure sensors to determine whether the applied pressure required to hold the device's treatment components against the user's body part is within the defined pressure range. Providing operating modes with defined operating speeds and pressure ranges simplifies the user experience, as the user can find the optimal settings for their preferred treatment experience without having to change each attribute individually.

[0035] The pressure applied to the device against the user's body is a crucial aspect of device control, as varying pressures will result in different effects from the personal care device. Therefore, it is important to provide a method for measuring and analyzing the applied pressure to determine if it falls within the target pressure range. However, it is difficult to define a universal target pressure range for all users of a given device. Some users may require strong pressure on the device's treatment components for effective treatment, while others may prefer gentler pressure to avoid irritating their skin. Therefore, it is essential that this target pressure range be adaptable to each user and for each use of the device.

[0036] Importantly, the device should be able to operate at different speed ranges. Higher motor speeds result in a perceived greater processing force, while lower motor speeds result in a perceived gentler processing force. User perception and device functionality are crucial to ensuring user satisfaction with the processing experience.

[0037] Furthermore, users have very limited perception of the applied pressure, making it difficult for them to adjust the target pressure range of the pressure analysis component without guidance. While the level of applied pressure significantly impacts the processing results, the user experience remains relatively constant throughout the processing as the applied pressure is adjusted. In contrast, users are typically very sensitive to changes in the operating speed of the equipment. Therefore, the proposed invention defines the operating speed and target pressure range settings together in the operating mode, thereby providing an improved method for setting the target pressure range of the equipment. When changes in the target pressure range are combined with changes in operating speed, users will more easily perceive changes in the target pressure range. Thus, the proposed invention increases the likelihood that users will be able to select the correct operating mode corresponding to the pressure range required to achieve their desired processing effect.

[0038] The proposed device allows for simultaneous modification of settings related to the target pressure range and operating speed of the processing component. This is achieved by selecting the device's operating mode, which sets the values ​​for both the pressure range and operating speed.

[0039] Therefore, the proposed concept aims to provide an electric personal care device that is provided with first and second operating modes, wherein the first and second operating modes respectively define first and second different operating speeds of the motor and first and second different pressure ranges, thereby providing a better user experience.

[0040] See now Figure 1 A simplified block diagram of an electric personal care device according to a proposed embodiment is depicted.

[0041] Figure 1 An electric personal care device 100 configured for personal care treatment by a user is depicted. In this exemplary embodiment, the electric personal care device is an electric toothbrush. The electric toothbrush includes a processing component 110, which in this exemplary embodiment is a brushing unit, arranged to be held against a user's body part when the device is in use. A motor 120 is configured to drive the brushing unit 110 to move at a variety of different operating speeds. The electric device 100 also includes a pressure sensor 130 configured to measure the applied pressure for holding the processing component 110 (i.e., the brushing unit) against the body part during a teeth cleaning treatment.

[0042] The control unit 140 is configured to control the device to operate in three different operating modes. The first, second, and third operating modes define first, second, and third different operating speeds and first, second, and third different pressure ranges for the motor 120, respectively. Each of the first, second, and third different pressure ranges extends from a corresponding lower pressure threshold to a corresponding upper pressure threshold. In this exemplary embodiment, the first operating speed defined by the first operating mode is less than the second operating speed defined by the second operating mode, while the third operating speed defined by the third operating mode is greater than the second operating speed. Furthermore, the first lower pressure threshold defined by the first operating mode is less than the second lower pressure threshold defined by the second operating mode, while the third lower pressure threshold defined by the third operating mode is greater than the second lower pressure threshold. Additionally, the first upper pressure threshold defined by the first operating mode is less than the second upper pressure threshold defined by the second operating mode, while the third upper pressure threshold defined by the third operating mode is greater than the second upper pressure threshold. Therefore, in this exemplary embodiment, the toothbrush is provided with three operating modes, each defining a different operating speed and a different pressure range. Having three different operating modes allows the user to easily adjust the device settings, enabling the user to easily obtain their preferred processing experience.

[0043] The pressure analysis device 150 is configured to determine whether the applied pressure measured by the pressure sensor is within the pressure range defined by the selected operating mode when the device is controlled to operate in a selected mode of the first, second, or third operating mode.

[0044] In this exemplary embodiment, the device further includes a pressure indicator 160 configured to perform the following operations: when the device is controlled to operate in a selected operating mode among the first, second, and third operating modes, indicating to the user whether the applied pressure measured by the pressure sensor is within the pressure range defined by the selected operating mode. In this exemplary embodiment, the pressure indicator 160 is a light-emitting device configured to perform the following operations: emitting light of a first color when the measured applied pressure is less than a lower pressure threshold defined by the pressure range of the selected operating mode; emitting light of a second color different from the first color when the measured applied pressure is greater than the lower pressure threshold defined by the pressure range of the selected operating mode but less than an upper pressure threshold; and emitting light of a third color different from the first and second colors when the measured applied pressure is greater than the upper pressure threshold defined by the pressure range of the selected operating mode.

[0045] Pressure sensor 130, pressure analysis device 150, and pressure indicator 160 form the pressure guidance system of the device. These components together provide real-time pressure feedback to the user. When the user presses the toothbrush against their teeth and gums, light feedback is provided to indicate the current applied pressure level. In this exemplary embodiment, the pressure indicator emits green light to indicate that the applied pressure is within the desired pressure range, and therefore the user should maintain the current applied pressure. If the applied pressure is below the lower pressure threshold of the selected pressure range, the pressure indicator emits blue light, thereby instructing the user to increase the applied pressure. If the current applied pressure is above the upper pressure threshold of the selected pressure range, the device emits orange light, thereby warning the user to reduce the pressure of the device on their body to achieve their preferred treatment effect.

[0046] The exemplary toothbrush device 100 also includes a user interface 170, which allows a user to select one of a first, second, and third operating modes. This user interface can present the user with information about the currently selected operating mode and other available operating modes. Furthermore, a pressure indicator can be integrated into the user interface, allowing the interface to display real-time information indicating the pressure applied by the processing component and whether this applied pressure is within the pressure range defined by the selected operating mode.

[0047] In the exemplary device described above, the processing component 110 is a brushing unit, enabling the device to function like an electric toothbrush. However, the proposed invention is not limited to such devices, and in alternative embodiments, the electric personal care device 100 may be at least one of the following: a razor; a hair clipper; a beard trimmer; an epilator; and an electric toothbrush. Therefore, the processing component 110 may be at least one of the following: a shaving unit; a skin care unit; a beard trimming unit; a long-bristle cutting unit; a toothbrush head; and a cleaning brush.

[0048] A single type of electric personal care device can have different types of treatment components that a user can select and attach to the main housing of the device depending on the type of treatment they wish to perform. For example, an electric hair removal device can have a shaving unit attachment and a beard trimming attachment. The device can also be provided with a detection device configured to generate a detection signal indicating which treatment component is attached to the device. A control unit can receive the detection signal and select an operating mode based on this signal. Alternatively, the detection signal can be used to determine a set of available operating modes for the user to choose from.

[0049] Similarly, other components of the above-described device can be implemented differently in alternative embodiments. For example, the above embodiments have three possible operating modes, but the proposed invention is not limited to this number, and the relative speed and pressure ranges of the different modes can vary in alternative embodiments. For example, the control unit can be configured to further control the device to operate in a fourth operating mode, wherein the operating speed and pressure range defined by the fourth operating mode can be selected by the user. Therefore, this alternative embodiment allows for customization of the operating mode for users who wish to obtain a processing experience different from that provided by the device's preset operating mode. A fifth power-saving mode can also be provided, wherein the fifth operating speed defined by the fifth operating mode is lower than the operating speed defined by any other operating mode of the device, and wherein the pressure feedback system of the device is disabled when the device is controlled to operate in the fifth operating mode. Therefore, the device can be provided with a more energy-efficient mode.

[0050] Furthermore, in alternative embodiments, the pressure indicator may not be a light-emitting device, but may utilize audio signals (such as tone or beeping sounds) or tactile signals (such as vibrations of a specific intensity or frequency) to indicate whether the pressure applied by the user is within the pressure range defined by the selected operating mode. The pressure indicator may also provide a combination of visual, audio, and tactile signals.

[0051] As discussed above, the device utilizes control unit 140 and pressure analysis device 150 to control the operation of the device and analyze data, respectively. These components can be implemented in various ways, using software and / or hardware, to perform the required functions. A processor is an example of a component, employing one or more microprocessors that can be programmed using software (e.g., microcode) to perform the required functions. Control unit 140 and pressure analysis device 150 can be implemented with or without processors, or can be implemented as a combination of dedicated hardware for performing some functions and processors (e.g., one or more programmed microprocessors and associated circuitry) for performing other functions.

[0052] Examples of controller components that may be employed in the various embodiments of this disclosure include, but are not limited to, conventional microprocessors, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), and field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs).

[0053] In various implementations, the processor or control unit may be associated with one or more storage media, such as volatile and non-volatile computer memories, such as RAM, PROM, EPROM, and EEPROM. The storage media may be encoded with one or more programs that, when executed on one or more processors and / or controllers, can perform the desired functions. The various storage media may be fixed within the processor or controller, or may be removable, allowing one or more programs stored thereon to be loaded into the processor or controller.

[0054] See Figure 2 A simplified flowchart depicts the operation scheme of the electric personal care device according to the proposed embodiment.

[0055] The process begins at step 210, where the electric personal care device is activated. For example, the electric personal care device could be electric personal care device 100. The process then proceeds to step 220, where the device displays the currently selected operating mode to the user. This mode can be displayed to the user on the user interface 170 of the electric personal care device 100. Displaying the currently selected operating mode may involve informing the user of the settings defined by the selected operating mode, namely, the defined operating speed and the defined pressure range.

[0056] The method then proceeds to decision step 230, which involves the user deciding whether they wish to change the selected operating mode of the device. This may involve the user selecting, on user interface 170, whether they wish to change the selected operating mode of the device. When the decision to change the operating mode is made, the process proceeds to step 240, where the device displays different operating modes available to the user. The device may have at least two operating modes and may have any number of operating modes corresponding to different operating speeds and different pressure ranges. The method then proceeds to step 250, where the user selects the desired operating mode from the different available operating modes. Again, this step may involve interaction between the user and the user interface. Once a new operating mode is selected, the process proceeds to step 260. If the user decides they will not change the operating mode of the device, the method proceeds directly from step 230 to step 260.

[0057] Step 260 involves the device's control components controlling the device to operate in a selected operating mode. Specifically, the selected operating mode defines the operating speed of the motor of the electric personal care device and further defines a pressure range extending from a lower pressure threshold to an upper pressure threshold. The pressure analysis component uses this pressure range to determine whether the applied pressure is within the optimal range.

[0058] The method then proceeds to step 270, where the selected operating mode is stored in the device such that the device remains in the selected operating mode upon the next startup. Therefore, user preferences can be stored in the device. The storage of this information can involve one or more storage media, such as volatile and non-volatile computer memories, such as RAM, PROM, EPROM, and EEPROM.

[0059] See now Figure 3 The document provides a graphical depiction of three operating modes of the electric personal care device according to the proposed embodiments.

[0060] Figure 300 shows three possible operating modes of the electric shaver. The horizontal axis 340 shows the pressure (in Newtons) that a user might use to hold the electric shaver against a part of their body. The vertical axis 350 indicates the possible operating speed of the electric shaver's motor, in revolutions per minute (rpm).

[0061] The three arrows 310, 320, and 330 respectively indicate the operating areas defined by the first operating mode, the second operating mode, and the third operating mode. Therefore, in the proposed embodiment, the operating speed of the first operating mode is 1900 rpm, the operating speed of the second operating mode is 2100 rpm, and the operating speed of the third operating mode is 2300 rpm.

[0062] These three operating modes have different operating speeds and different pressure ranges. In this exemplary embodiment, the pressure range of the first operating mode extends from 1 N to 3 N, the pressure range of the second operating mode extends from 1.5 N to 4 N, and the pressure range of the third operating mode extends from 2 N to 5 N.

[0063] In this way, Figure 300 illustrates how three operating modes can be provided for an electric personal care device, thus offering three different user experiences. The first operating mode (with low operating speed and lower optimal pressure) provides a gentle shaving experience for users with sensitive skin. The second operating mode (with medium operating speed and medium optimal pressure) delivers an efficient shave without causing excessive irritation. The third operating mode (with high operating speed and high optimal pressure) provides a closer and more efficient shave.

[0064] See now Figure 4 A schematic perspective view of an example electric shaver 400 according to the proposed embodiment is depicted.

[0065] The electric shaver 400 includes a main body 402 and a shaver head unit 410. The main body 402 is configured to be held by a user for shaving. In this way, the main body 402 serves both as a handle and as a mounting point for several functional components of the shaver.

[0066] The shaver head unit 410 includes a plurality of cutting elements 404. This example shaver 400 has three rotary cutting elements 404, as is well known to those skilled in the art. When a user presses the shaver head unit 410 against a portion of their skin, the cutting elements 404 come into contact with the user's hair. The cutting elements 404 include rotating blades such that when the device is in use and pressed against a portion of the user's skin, the rotating blades cut the user's hair.

[0067] The shaver 400's body 402 includes a motor 420 configured to drive the rotating blades of the cutting element 404 to rotate at different operating speeds. The body 402 also includes a battery pack 406 configured to power the motor.

[0068] Pressure sensor 430 is disposed within shaver head unit 410 and configured to measure the pressure (i.e., applied pressure) applied by the user when pressing shaver head unit 410 against the skin. Any suitable pressure sensor can be used, such as a strain gauge, piezoelectric sensor, or capacitive pressure sensor. A detailed example of a suitable pressure sensor with a Hall effect sensor is disclosed in EP3852983B1 in the applicant's name. Preferably, the pressure sensor is positioned close to the surface of shaver head unit 410 pressed against the skin. For example, pressure sensor 430 can be placed directly below cutting element 404. In cases with multiple cutting elements, multiple pressure sensors can be provided, one pressure sensor placed below each cutting element.

[0069] Pressure sensor 430 is configured to detect applied pressure and provide a pressure signal to processing unit 408, the pressure signal including information describing the detected applied pressure.

[0070] Processing unit 408 is housed within main body 402 and associated with memory unit 412. As described in detail above, processing unit 408 can simultaneously perform the functions of pressure analysis device 150 and control unit 140 of personal care device 100. That is, processing unit 408 is configured to control the electric shaver to operate in at least first and second different operating modes, wherein the first and second operating modes respectively define first and second different operating speeds of motor 420, and first and second different pressure ranges, wherein the first and second pressure ranges each extend from a corresponding lower pressure threshold to a corresponding upper pressure threshold.

[0071] The electric shaver 400 also includes a user interface 470 on the main body of the device. The user can use this user interface to select an operating mode from at least two different operating modes. Once an operating mode is selected, the processing unit 408 controls the motor 420 to drive the rotating blades of the cutting unit 404 at the operating speed defined by the selected operating mode. Furthermore, upon receiving an applied pressure signal measured by the pressure sensor 430, the processing unit 408 determines whether the applied pressure is within the pressure range defined by the selected operating mode. This determination is then transmitted to the user via the user interface 470. In this way, the user interface 470 implements the functions of the user interface 170 and the pressure indicator 160 of the personal care device 100.

[0072] User interface 470 can be implemented in any suitable manner. For example, user interface 470 may include any suitable input components that enable the user to select a device operating mode. For example, these input components may include buttons, knobs, or touch-sensitive displays. Furthermore, user interface 470 may also include any suitable output components that allow pressure feedback information to be transmitted to the user. These output components may include displays, speakers, lighting devices, or haptic feedback components.

[0073] Processing unit 408 can be any suitable processing component. Examples of processing components that can be employed in the various embodiments of this disclosure include, but are not limited to, conventional microprocessors, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), and field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs).

[0074] Processing unit 408 may be associated with memory unit 412. Memory unit 412 may include one or more storage media, such as volatile and non-volatile computer memories, such as RAM, PROM, EPROM, and EEPROM. The storage media may be encoded with one or more programs that can perform corresponding operations when executed on the processing unit and / or controller. Various storage media may be fixed within the processor or controller, or may be removable, such that one or more programs stored thereon can be loaded into the processor or controller.

[0075] The memory unit 412 is configured to store information describing at least first and second operating modes, and the corresponding operating speed and pressure range defined for each operating mode. The memory unit 412 may also be configured to store information describing the operating mode recently selected by the user, such that when the electric shaver 400 restarts, the processing unit 408 controls the device to operate in the most recently selected operating mode.

[0076] The shaving head unit 410 of the electric shaver 400 can be detachably coupled to the body 402, allowing a user to remove the shaving head unit 410 from the body 402 and couple different processing components (such as a beard trimming unit, nose hair trimming unit, or facial brushing unit) to the body 402 for drive by the motor 420. In this embodiment, the electric shaver 400 may be provided with a detection device configured to generate a detection signal indicating the type of processing component actually coupled to the body 402. An example of a suitable detection device is disclosed in EP3855976B1 in the applicant's name, which generates a detection signal based on a current measured in the motor 420 and a measured vibration of the body 402. In this embodiment, the memory unit 412 may be configured to store an associated set of at least first and second different operating modes for each different type of processing component that can be coupled to the body 402, wherein the multiple sets of different operating modes for different processing components may be different. In this embodiment, the processing unit 408 can be configured to preselect a set of different operating modes associated with the processing component actually coupled to the main body 402 based on the detection signal received from the detection device, and the user can select the desired operating mode from at least two sets of different operating modes preselected by the processing unit 408 via the user interface 470.

[0077] Although the features of the invention have been discussed above in the context of electric shavers, it should be understood that these features can be applied to any suitable personal care device. For example, in another exemplary embodiment of the invention, a hair removal device is provided.

[0078] The hair removal device includes a main body that serves as a handle for the user and houses functional components. In this particular embodiment, the functional components include a motor, a battery, a processing unit, a user interface, and a memory unit. The hair removal device also includes a hair removal head unit connected to the main body of the device. The hair removal head unit includes at least one hair removal element configured to be driven by the motor to move at different operating speeds. During personal care treatment, the user contacts the hair removal head unit with a portion of skin. The driven movement of at least one hair removal element then pulls hair out of that portion of skin.

[0079] A pressure sensor is housed within the hair removal head unit and configured to measure the pressure applied by the user when pressing the hair removal head unit onto the skin. The pressure sensor is also configured to send a pressure signal to a processing unit, the pressure signal including information describing the detected applied pressure. The processing unit is configured to control the hair removal device to operate in at least first and second different operating modes, wherein the first and second operating modes define first and second different operating speeds of the motor and first and second different pressure ranges, respectively.

[0080] The user interface can be used by the user to select an operating mode from at least two different operating modes. Once the device operating mode is selected, the processing unit controls the motor to drive at least one hair removal element at the operating speed defined by the selected operating mode. Furthermore, upon receiving a measured applied pressure signal from a pressure sensor, the processing unit determines whether the applied pressure is within the pressure range defined by the selected operating mode. This determination result is then transmitted to the user via the user interface.

[0081] In the electric shaver and epilator devices described above, the processing unit housed in the main body implements the functions of the pressure analysis device and control components of device 100, and the user interface performs the functions of the user interface 170 and pressure indicator 160 of the personal care device 100, as described in detail above. It should be understood that, in alternative embodiments, these functionalities may be distributed differently among different components and devices. For example, the personal care device may be configured to communicate (e.g., wirelessly) with a user's smart device (e.g., a smartphone or tablet). The processing and display capabilities of the smart device can then implement the functions of the pressure analysis component, control components, user interface, or pressure indicator of exemplary embodiment 100. Therefore, in some embodiments, the processing power required by the present invention may be distributed across a system containing other suitable devices besides the personal care device. This distribution of processing requirements can be configured differently based on predetermined limitations and / or the availability of processing resources.

[0082] For example, another embodiment of the invention includes a personal care system comprising a toothbrush device and a charging unit. The toothbrush device includes a toothbrush head unit having at least one brushing element configured to be driven to rotate by a motor disposed in the body of the toothbrush device. The body also houses a battery configured to power the motor. A pressure sensor is present in the toothbrush head unit and measures the pressure a user applies when pressing the toothbrush head unit against their teeth and gums.

[0083] The toothbrush device is configured to connect to a charging unit such that, upon establishing this connection, the charging element of the charging unit charges the toothbrush device's battery. The charging unit may also house a processing unit, a memory unit, and a user interface. The processing unit of the charging unit is configured to communicate wirelessly with the toothbrush device's motor and pressure sensor. In this way, the processing unit of the charging unit can perform some of the functions performed by the pressure analysis unit and control components of device 100.

[0084] Specifically, the pressure sensor of the toothbrush device is configured to send a pressure signal to the processing unit of the charging unit, the pressure signal including information describing the detected applied pressure. The processing unit communicates with the toothbrush device to control the toothbrush device to operate in at least first and second different operating modes, wherein the first and second operating modes respectively define first and second different operating speeds of the motor and first and second different pressure ranges, wherein the first and second pressure ranges each extend from a corresponding lower pressure threshold to a corresponding upper pressure threshold.

[0085] The user interface of the charging unit allows users to select the desired operating mode of the device and displays an indication to the user whether the applied pressure is within the pressure range defined by the selected operating mode.

[0086] The arrangement described in this embodiment (where the operation of a separate toothbrush device is controlled using the processing unit of the charging unit and the user interface) is advantageous for several reasons. Since the charging units are likely to remain stationary, this arrangement imposes far fewer space and weight constraints on the configuration of the user interface and processing unit compared to arrangements where they are housed within the main body of the personal care device. Furthermore, the charging units can be configured to connect to mains power, thus avoiding limitations imposed by the battery's power capabilities.

[0087] In light of the above discussion, it should be understood that the invention described herein can be implemented in a variety of ways depending on the limitations and capabilities of personal care devices.

[0088] By studying the accompanying drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims, those skilled in the art can understand and implement various variations of the disclosed embodiments. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite articles "a" or "an" do not exclude multiple. A single processor or other unit can implement the functions of several items listed in the claims. The fact that certain measures are listed in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that combinations of these measures cannot be used to achieve an advantage. If a computer program has been discussed above, it can be stored / distributed on a suitable medium (such as an optical storage medium or solid-state medium supplied with or as part of other hardware), or distributed in other forms such as via the Internet or other wired or wireless communication systems. If the term "suitable" is used in the claims or description, it should be noted that the term "suitable" is intended to be equivalent to the term "configured as." No reference numerals in the claims should be construed as limiting the scope.

Claims

1. An electric personal care device (100) configured for a user to perform personal care procedures, the device comprising: A processing component (110) is arranged to be held against the user's body part during the personal care treatment; A motor (120) is configured to drive the processing unit to move at different operating speeds; A pressure sensor (130) is configured to measure applied pressure during the personal care treatment, in which the treatment component is held against the body part. A pressure analysis device (150) is configured to determine whether the applied pressure measured by the pressure sensor is within a pressure range; A pressure indicator (160) is configured to indicate to a user by means of an identifier whether the applied pressure measured by the pressure sensor is within the pressure range; as well as A control unit (140) is configured to control the device to operate in at least different first operating modes and second operating modes, wherein the first operating mode and the second operating mode define different first operating speeds and second operating speeds of the motor, respectively. Its features are: The first operating mode and different second operating modes also define different first pressure ranges and second pressure ranges, wherein the first pressure range and the second pressure range each extend from a corresponding lower pressure threshold to a corresponding upper pressure threshold. The pressure analysis device (150) is configured to determine whether the applied pressure measured by the pressure sensor (130) is within the pressure range defined by the selected operating mode when the device (100) is controlled to operate in a selected operating mode among the at least different first operating modes and second operating modes. as well as The pressure indicator (160) is configured to, when the device is controlled to operate in a selected operating mode among the at least different first and second operating modes, indicate to the user by means of the identifier whether the applied pressure measured by the pressure sensor is within the pressure range defined by the selected operating mode.

2. The device (100) according to claim 1 further includes a user interface (170) configured to allow the user to select one of the at least different first and second operating modes, wherein the control unit (140) is configured to control the device to operate in the operating mode selected by the user.

3. The device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the pressure indicator (160) is a light-emitting device configured to perform the following operations: When the measured applied pressure is less than the lower pressure threshold of the pressure range defined by the selected operating mode, light of the first color is emitted; When the measured applied pressure is greater than the lower pressure threshold of the pressure range defined by the selected operating mode and less than the upper pressure threshold, light of a second color different from the first color is emitted. as well as When the measured applied pressure is greater than the upper pressure threshold of the pressure range defined by the selected operating mode, a third color of light, different from the first and second colors, is emitted.

4. The device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the pressure indicator (160) utilizes at least one of the following: an audio signal; a visual signal; and a tactile signal.

5. The device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the processing component (110) is at least one of the following: a shaving unit (410); a skin care unit; a beard trimming unit; a long hair cutting unit; a toothbrush head; and a cleaning brush.

6. The device (100) according to claim 6, wherein the device comprises: The main housing that houses the motor (120); At least two different processing units (110) can be selectively coupled to the main housing to be driven by the motor; as well as A detection device is configured to generate a detection signal indicating which of the at least two different processing components is coupled to the main housing; The control unit (140) is configured to receive the detection signal and select the operating mode from the at least different first operating mode and second operating mode based on the detection signal.

7. The device (100) according to claim 6, wherein: The control unit (140) is configured to, based on the detection signal, preselect one set of at least different first operating modes and second operating modes from at least two different sets of at least different first operating modes and second operating modes; The device includes a user interface (170) configured to allow the user to select an operating mode from a set of at least different first and second operating modes pre-selected by the control unit.

8. The device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the electric personal care device is at least one of the following: a razor (400); a hair clipper; a beard trimmer; an epilator; and an electric toothbrush.

9. The device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The first operating speed defined by the first operating mode is less than the second operating speed defined by the second operating mode; And among them: The first downforce threshold defined by the first operating mode is less than the second downforce threshold defined by the second operating mode; and / or The first upper pressure threshold defined by the first operating mode is less than the second upper pressure threshold defined by the second operating mode.

10. The device (100) according to claim 9, wherein the control unit (140) is configured to further control the device to operate in a third operating mode different from the first operating mode and the second operating mode, wherein: The third operating speed defined by the third operating mode is greater than the second operating speed; And among them: The third downpressure threshold defined by the third operating mode is greater than the second downpressure threshold; and / or The third upper pressure threshold defined in the third operating mode is greater than the second upper pressure threshold.

11. The device (100) according to claim 10, wherein the electric personal care device is an electric shaver (400), and the first operating speed is 1900 rpm, the second operating speed is 2100 rpm, and the third operating speed is 2300 rpm.

12. The device (100) according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the electric personal care device is an electric shaver (400), and the first downpressure threshold is 1 N, the second downpressure threshold is 1.5 N, and the third downpressure threshold is 2 N.

13. The device (100) according to any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein the electric personal care device is an electric shaver (400), and the first upper pressure threshold is 3 N, the second upper pressure threshold is 4 N, and the third upper pressure threshold is 5 N.

14. The device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the control unit (140) is configured to further control the device to operate in a custom operating mode, wherein the operating speed and the pressure range defined by the custom operating mode can be selected by the user.

15. The device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the control unit (140) is further configured to control the device to operate in an energy-saving operating mode, wherein: The energy-saving operation speed defined by the energy-saving operation mode is lower than the at least different first operation speed and second operation speed defined by the at least different first operation mode and second operation mode; and When the device is controlled to operate in the energy-saving operation mode, the pressure analysis device is disabled.

Images