Hair styling system and control thereof

Abstract

A hair styler system is disclosed that includes a computing device and an ultra-wideband (UWB) sensor or camera to detect gestures and movements of a user using a hair styler to control settings and / or functions of the hair styler and to provide appropriate user feedback. The hair styler of the hair styler system can also include a UWB sensor and orientation detection capabilities to detect proximity of the hair styler to the user and / or orientation of the hair styler during use to control settings and / or functions of the hair styler and to provide appropriate user feedback.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for styling the hair of a person (or, conceivably, an animal), for example after washing the hair or as part of a styling process, and means of controlling the apparatus during the styling process. Background Technology

[0002] Typically, handheld (portable) hair stylers (e.g., straighteners and / or curlers) are equipped with one or more user interfaces that allow users to set user-defined parameters for the device. For example, the one or more user interfaces may allow users to set the desired operating temperature of the hair styler and / or request cold / hot spray. The one or more user interfaces may also allow users (by way of example) to select one or more styling programs to use for styling their hair. For example, the hair styler may have pre-programmed styling programs stored in its memory that set specific parameters to achieve specific hair styles. Additionally, the one or more user interfaces may allow users to switch between different operating modes of the hair styler. For example, a user can switch between a training mode and a styling mode. In training mode, the hair styler's heater is off, allowing the user to practice specific styling techniques and movements without actually styling their hair, while in styling mode, the hair styler's heater is operational and heats the hair.

[0003] However, this user input functionality for controlling hair stylers has drawbacks, particularly (but not limited to) when using the hair styler in the aforementioned styling modes. For example, the need to operate the styler and control its functions using different buttons located at different positions on the styler, and / or one or more touch displays, can be difficult to achieve while simultaneously styling one's own hair. Specifically (but not limited to), the need to use a touch-sensitive display to operate the styler may force the user to interrupt the styling process to view the display and select input. This negatively impacts the quality of styling with the styler, as the user must periodically remove their hair from the device to select a new function, and then start styling the hair through the device again after selecting a new function. Therefore, it is necessary to improve the functionality of hair stylers while minimizing the amount of required user input interaction. In particular, it is necessary to improve the functionality of such hair stylers without requiring the user to interrupt the styling process to change the styler settings. It is also necessary to improve the functionality of such hair stylers without requiring the user to move from their seated position while styling. It is also necessary to improve the functionality of such hair stylers without requiring the user to move from their current position in general while styling. For example, when a user uses a hair styler while standing in front of a mirror, the functionality of such hair stylers needs to be improved so that the user does not have to move frequently in front of the mirror.

[0004] Furthermore, during the use of a hair styler, whether in the training mode or the styling mode described above, users can benefit from feedback from the styler (or another device communicating with it) to provide guidance and instructions, thereby ensuring the correct use of the styler. Ensuring this correct use allows for optimal styling. This is especially true when users wish to achieve more complex hair styles (traditionally requiring the assistance of a professional hairstylist). Therefore, it is essential to provide feedback to users during their use of the hair styler device.

[0005] Additionally, the one or more user interfaces can allow users to switch between different operating modes of the hair styler. For example, users can switch between training mode and styling mode. In training mode, the hair styler's heater is off, allowing users to practice specific styling techniques and movements without actually styling their hair. In styling mode, the hair styler's heater is operational.

[0006] In scenarios where a user selects one or more styling programs to style their hair, the hair styler can use pre-programmed styling programs stored in its memory, which set the parameters required to achieve the chosen specific hair style. However, while users don't need to input / change specific parameters of the hair styler to achieve their desired hair style, they still need to be proficient in the techniques and movements required to achieve the selected style using the styler. This, in turn, means that average users typically won't attempt complex styles because the required techniques and movements are intricate. Furthermore, even with simpler styles, users unfamiliar with the styler may still make mistakes when attempting to achieve their desired style. Therefore, monitoring and feedback functions need to be integrated into such hair stylers, capable of monitoring the techniques and movements the user is using and assisting them as they use the styler to achieve their desired hair style. Similar issues also arise with hair dryers and dual-function stylers, such as the applicant's "Duet Style" hair drying and styling device. Summary of the Invention

[0007] According to one aspect of the present invention, a hair styling system is provided, comprising: a hair styling device; at least one ultra-wideband (UWB) sensor configured to transmit UWB radio pulses and receive UWB radio signals reflected by an object near the at least one UWB sensor; and a computing device communicating with the at least one UWB sensor, the computing device including a processor configured to: i) process the signals obtained from the at least one UWB sensor to identify a gesture made by a user near the at least one UWB sensor; and ii) control at least one setting of the hair styling device or the computing device in response to the identified gesture.

[0008] On the other hand, processing signals obtained from at least one UWB sensor to identify gestures made by a user in the vicinity of at least one UWB sensor may include comparing the signals obtained from at least one UWB sensor with multiple gesture recognition models.

[0009] On the other hand, comparing the signals obtained from the UWB sensor with multiple gesture recognition models may include comparing the pattern of the signal obtained from at least one UWB sensor with each of the multiple gesture recognition models, wherein each gesture recognition model includes one or more pre-stored UWB radio signal patterns corresponding to a gesture.

[0010] On the other hand, one or more pre-stored UWB radio signal patterns corresponding to the gesture include at least one of the following: distance-amplitude signal map and / or distance-time signal map.

[0011] On the other hand, processing signals obtained from at least one UWB sensor to identify gestures made by a user in the vicinity of at least one UWB sensor may include comparing the signals obtained from at least one UWB sensor with gesture recognition models, wherein each gesture recognition model is a convolutional neural network (CNN). Alternatively or concurrently, the signals may be compared with multiple gesture recognition models, wherein each gesture recognition model is a convolutional neural network (CNN).

[0012] On the other hand, each recognized gesture is associated with one of a plurality of control commands, and in response to recognizing a gesture made by the user near at least one UWB sensor, the processor is configured to send a corresponding control command to the hair styler to control at least one setting of the hair styler device.

[0013] On the other hand, controlling at least one setting of the hair styling device in response to a recognized gesture may include: increasing the temperature of the hair styler, or increasing the temperature of the hair styler in pre-configured steps, or activating the hot spray function of the hair styler, or activating the cold spray function of the hair styler.

[0014] On the other hand, in response to recognizing a gesture made by a user near at least one UWB sensor, the processor can be configured to control at least one setting of a computing device communicating with the at least one UWB sensor.

[0015] On the other hand, in response to a recognized gesture, at least one setting of a computing device communicating with at least one UWB sensor may include: restarting a music track being played by the computing device or skipping a music track being played by the computing device.

[0016] According to one aspect of the present invention, a hair styling system is provided, comprising: a hair styling device; a plurality of ultra-wideband (UWB) sensors, each UWB sensor configured to emit UWB radio pulses and receive UWB radio signals reflected by objects near the plurality of UWB sensors; and a computing device communicating with the plurality of UWB sensors. The computing device includes a processor configured to: i) process signals obtained from each of the plurality of UWB sensors to identify dynamic gestures made by a user, wherein the dynamic gestures are movement gestures; ii) process signals obtained from each of the plurality of UWB sensors to determine the position of the user's head; and iii) control at least one setting of the hair styling device or the computing device in response to the identified dynamic gestures and the determined position of the user's head.

[0017] On the other hand, the processor is configured to process signals obtained from multiple UWB sensors to recognize dynamic gestures made by the user, which may include comparing the signals obtained from the multiple UWB sensors with multiple gesture recognition models.

[0018] On the other hand, comparing signals obtained from multiple UWB sensors with multiple gesture recognition models may include comparing patterns of signals obtained from multiple UWB sensors with each of the multiple gesture recognition models, wherein each gesture recognition model includes one or more pre-stored UWB radio signal patterns corresponding to dynamic gestures. Furthermore, the one or more pre-stored UWB radio signal patterns corresponding to dynamic gestures may include distance-time signal maps.

[0019] On the other hand, the processor configured to process signals obtained from multiple UWB sensors to recognize user gestures may include comparing the signals obtained from the multiple UWB sensors with multiple gesture recognition models, where each gesture recognition model is a convolutional neural network (CNN).

[0020] On the other hand, configuring the processor to process signals obtained from each of a plurality of UWB sensors to determine the position of the user's head may include: identifying static portions of the signals obtained from each UWB sensor, wherein the static portions of the signals are those that do not change over time. For example, during the use of a hair styler, a user may move their head (e.g., tilt / twist / rotate their head). Therefore, the processor may be configured to process signals obtained from each of the plurality of UWB sensors to determine the position of the user's head and how the user's head position changes over time (e.g., time frames).

[0021] On the other hand, controlling at least one setting of the hair styling device in response to a recognized dynamic gesture and a determined position of the user's head may include: determining whether the dynamic gesture originates from the left or right side of the user's head, wherein each recognized dynamic gesture and its starting position relative to the left or right side of the user's head are associated with one of a plurality of different control commands, and in response to recognizing the gesture made by the user and its starting position relative to the left or right side of the user's head, the processor is configured to send a corresponding control command to the hair styling device to control at least one setting of the hair styling device.

[0022] On the other hand, controlling at least one setting of the computing device in response to the recognized dynamic gesture and the determined position of the user's head may include: determining whether the dynamic gesture originates from the left or right side of the user's head, and in response to recognizing the gesture made by the user and its starting position relative to the left or right side of the user's head, configuring the processor to control at least one setting of the computing device.

[0023] According to one aspect of the present invention, a hair styling system is provided, comprising: a hair styling device; at least one ultra-wideband (UWB) sensor configured to transmit UWB radio pulses and receive UWB radio signals from at least one radio frequency identification (RFID) tag on the hair styling device; at least one user interface for inputting a desired hair style; and a computing device communicating with the at least one UWB sensor. The computing device includes a processor configured to: i) process the signals received from the at least one UWB sensor to identify movement of the hair styling device in the vicinity of the at least one UWB sensor; and ii) provide feedback to the user in response to the identified movement.

[0024] On the other hand, the processor is configured to process signals obtained from at least one UWB sensor to identify movement of a hair styling device in the vicinity of at least one UWB sensor, which may include comparing the signals obtained from at least one UWB sensor with multiple gesture recognition models.

[0025] On the other hand, comparing the signals obtained from the UWB sensor with multiple gesture recognition models may include comparing the pattern of the signal obtained from at least one UWB sensor with each of the multiple gesture recognition models, wherein each gesture recognition model includes one or more pre-stored UWB radio signal patterns corresponding to a gesture.

[0026] On the other hand, one or more pre-stored UWB radio signal patterns corresponding to the movement of the hair styling device include distance-time signal maps.

[0027] On the other hand, processing signals obtained from at least one UWB sensor to identify movement of a hair styling device in the vicinity of at least one UWB sensor may include comparing the signals obtained from at least one UWB sensor with multiple gesture recognition models, wherein each gesture recognition model is a convolutional neural network (CNN).

[0028] On the other hand, providing feedback to the user in response to the identified movement may include: comparing the identified movement of the hair styling device with a set of movements of the hair styling device required to achieve the desired hair styling input at at least one user interface; based on the comparison, determining whether the identified movement of the hair styling device corresponds to at least one movement of the hair styling device required to achieve the desired hair styling; and in response to the determination, configuring the processor to send a feedback command to the hair styling device to provide feedback to the user in response to the identified movement. The feedback may include at least one of the following: visual feedback provided via a display of a computing device, visual feedback provided via a display of the hair styling device, audio feedback provided via a computing device, haptic feedback provided via the hair styling device, and / or audio feedback provided via the hair styling device (wherein the hair styling device is provided with one or more speakers).

[0029] On the other hand, the identified movement of the hair styling device may include at least one of the following: rotational movement of the hair styling device, unidirectional linear movement of the hair styling device, and / or up-and-down movement of the hair styling device when the arm of the hair styling device is open.

[0030] According to another aspect of the present invention, a hair drying and / or styling device is provided, comprising: a first ultra-wideband (UWB) sensor located on the hair styling device for transmitting UWB radio pulses and receiving UWB radio signals reflected by objects near the first UWB sensor; and a processor communicating with the first UWB sensor. The processor is configured to process the signals obtained from the first UWB sensor to detect when the hair drying and / or styling device is near a user's head, and to perform a control action in response to detecting that the hair drying and / or styling device is near the user's head.

[0031] On the other hand, the control action includes providing feedback to the user. For example, the feedback provided to the user includes at least one of the following: audio feedback, visual feedback, and / or haptic feedback.

[0032] On the other hand, the control action includes controlling the power supplied to at least one heater of the hair drying and / or styling equipment.

[0033] On the other hand, the hair drying and / or styling device also includes a second UWB sensor, with the first and second UWB sensors located on opposite sides of the hair drying and / or styling device, and the processor communicating with the first and second UWB sensors. The processor is also configured to process signals obtained from the first and second UWB sensors to detect which side of the hair drying and / or styling device the user's head is located on.

[0034] On the other hand, the processor is configured to compare the signals obtained by the first UWB sensor and the second UWB sensor to determine which signal has the largest amplitude peak, and based on the signal with the largest amplitude peak, determine which side of the hair drying and / or styling device the user's head is located on. For example, it can be determined that the user's head is located on the side of the hair styling device corresponding to the side where the UWB sensor receiving the signal with the largest amplitude peak is located.

[0035] On the other hand, comparing the signals obtained by the first UWB sensor and the second UWB sensor includes: generating a distance-amplitude map for each signal obtained by the first UWB sensor and the second UWB sensor, and analyzing each distance-amplitude map to identify which distance-amplitude map contains the maximum amplitude peak.

[0036] On the other hand, the hair styling device also includes a pressure sensor located near the first UWB sensor and / or the second UWB sensor. Furthermore, the processor is configured to determine, based on data obtained from the pressure sensor, whether the user's hand is near the first UWB sensor and / or the second UWB sensor. In response to determining that the user's hand is near the first UWB sensor and / or the second UWB sensor, a correction is applied to the signals obtained from the first UWB sensor and / or the second UWB sensor to compensate for UWB radio signals reflected from the user's hand.

[0037] On the other hand, the processor is also configured to determine the orientation of the hair drying and / or styling device relative to magnetic north.

[0038] On the other hand, the processor communicates with an orientation sensing circuit configured to sense the orientation of the hair drying and / or styling device, and wherein the processor is configured to process data received from the orientation sensing circuit to determine the orientation of the hair drying and / or styling device relative to magnetic north. For example, the orientation sensing circuit includes at least one of the following: an accelerometer, a gyroscope, and / or a magnetometer.

[0039] On the other hand, the processor is configured to perform control actions in response to determining the orientation of the hair drying and / or styling device and detecting that the hair drying and / or styling device is close to the user's head.

[0040] On the other hand, the computing device also includes a user interface for a user to select a desired hair style, and the processor is further configured to: determine a movement of the hair styling device; compare the determined movement with a set of movements required to achieve the desired hair style to determine whether the movement is correct for achieving the desired hair style; and perform a control action based on the determination that the movement is correct for achieving the desired hair style.

[0041] On the other hand, the processor is configured to redetermine the orientation of the hair styling device, compare the orientation of the hair styling device with the redetermined orientation, and determine the movement of the hair styling device based on the comparison. Attached Figure Description

[0042] Embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0043] Figure 1a A perspective overview of the hair styling equipment is shown;

[0044] Figure 1b It shows Figure 1a The equipment is used to style hair;

[0045] Figure 2 This illustrates a hair styler system used by end users to style their hair;

[0046] Figure 3a The internal components / modules of the ultra-wideband (UWB) sensor of this hair styler system are shown;

[0047] Figure 3b The circuitry of the ultra-wideband (UWB) sensor for this hair styler system is shown.

[0048] Figure 4a An exemplary static gesture and its processing are shown to adjust the functionality of the hair styler;

[0049] Figure 4b This illustrates the functionality of an exemplary dynamic gesture and its processing to adjust a hair styler;

[0050] Figure 5 An exemplary process flowchart is shown, depicting the steps involved in gesture-based control of a computing device for a hair styler and / or a hair styler system;

[0051] Figure 6 An exemplary gesture-function mapping table is shown in the memory of a computing device for a hair styling system;

[0052] Figure 7An exemplary use of a signal graph, generated by reflected UWB pulses, is shown to determine the position of a user's head and gestures relative to that position.

[0053] Figure 8 An exemplary process flowchart is shown, depicting another step involved in gesture-based control of a computing device for a hair styler and / or hair styler system;

[0054] Figure 9 An exemplary use of a signal graph, generated by reflected UWB pulses, is shown to determine styling movements performed by a user of a hair styler.

[0055] Figure 10 An exemplary process flowchart is shown, depicting the steps involved in identifying the position and movement of the hair styler and providing appropriate feedback;

[0056] Figure 11 An exemplary movement of a hair styler that can be performed by a user and a table showing feedback that can be triggered by a computing device are illustrated;

[0057] Figure 12 Another exemplary movement of the hair styler 1 and its processing are shown to provide user feedback.

[0058] Figure 13 A hair styler including a computing device is shown;

[0059] Figure 14a The components and modules of the computing device are shown;

[0060] Figure 14b The circuit of the UWB sensor is shown;

[0061] Figure 15a A diagram showing a comparison between the actual and predicted orientation of the hair styler is depicted;

[0062] Figure 15b The roll, pitch, and yaw rotation angles of the hair styler are shown.

[0063] Figure 16a An example of a hair styler in use is shown;

[0064] Figure 16b The signal amplitude-distance plot of the reflected UWB signal received at the UWB sensor located on the hair styler is depicted;

[0065] Figure 16c and Figure 16d An exemplary movement of the hair styler and the feedback that can be provided are shown;

[0066] Figure 17A flowchart illustrating the steps involved in providing feedback to the user is shown.

[0067] Figure 18a Another example of a hair styler in use is shown;

[0068] Figure 18b and Figure 18c Another set of signal amplitude-distance plots was depicted of the reflected UWB signal received at the UWB sensor located on the hair styler; and

[0069] Figure 19 Another process flowchart is shown, illustrating the steps involved in providing feedback to the user. Detailed Implementation

[0070] Overview

[0071] Figure 1a A handheld (portable) hair styler 1 is shown. The hair styler 1 includes a first movable arm 4a and a second movable arm 4b, which are connected at their proximal ends to a shoulder (or hinge) 2. The first arm 4a carries a first heater 6a at its distal end, and the second arm 4b carries a second heater 6b at its distal end. The first heater 6a and the second heater 6b are opposite each other and come together as the first arm 4a and the second arm 4b move from an open configuration to a closed configuration. Figure 1b As shown, during use, the hair strand 40 is clamped between the two arms 4, causing the user's hair to come into contact with the outer heating surfaces of the heaters 6a and 6b, and thus be heated by the outer heating surfaces. Therefore, when the user pulls the hair styler 1 along the hair strand 40, the hair strand 40 is heated to a suitable temperature for styling through conduction heating.

[0072] One or more user interfaces 11 are provided to allow users to set user-defined parameters and for the device to output information to the user. For example, a desired operating temperature can be set via the user interface 11. The user interface 11 may have a dial, buttons, or a touch display for allowing users to input information into the hair styler 1, and the user interface 11 may have indicator lights, displays, sound generators, or haptic feedback generators for outputting information to the user. In this embodiment, the user interface 11 also includes: control buttons or switches 14 to enable the user to turn the hair styler 1 on or off; and indicator lights 15 to indicate whether the power is on.

[0073] A printed circuit board assembly (not shown) may be provided at any suitable location within the housing of the hair styler 1. This assembly carries control circuitry for controlling the operation of the hair styler 1 and for controlling interaction with the user via the user interface 11. In this example, power is supplied to the hair styler 1 via a power cord 3 located at the end of the device. This power source may be AC ​​mains power. However, in an alternative embodiment, the power source may include one or more DC batteries or cells (which may be rechargeable, e.g., charged from AC or DC power via a charging cable), thereby making the hair styler 1 a cordless product.

[0074] In use, the hair styler 1 is turned on, energizing the heater 6 to heat it up. The user then opens the first arm 4a and the second arm 4b, typically starting from the hair root (i.e., near the scalp), introducing a section or bundle of hair 40 (which may be in a clump) between the arms 4a and 4b, laterally through the heaters 6a and 6b. The user then closes the arms 4a and 4b, keeping the hair section between the first arm 4a and the second arm 4b, and then pulls the hair through the closed arms (e.g.,...). Figure 1b (As shown). In this embodiment, the outer (hair contact) surface of the heater 6 is flat, so the hair styler 1 can be used to straighten the user's hair. The hair styler 1 shown in Figure 1 can also be used to curl hair by rotating the hair styler 1 by approximately 180 degrees or more after clamping the hair between the arms 4a and 4b and before moving the hair styler 1 along the hair strand 40.

[0075] However, controlling the functions and / or settings of this hair styler 1 can be cumbersome, especially when the user must control the functions and / or settings via the button array and / or user interface of the hair styler 1. For example, if the user wants to change the temperature of the hair styler or trigger cold / hot spray, the user may have to remove the hair from the hair styler to see the available buttons and / or options on the user interface to change its settings. This, in turn, leads to the hair styler 1 being used less efficiently, as the user may have to repeatedly start and stop during the styling process to change the settings.

[0076] Advantageously, by incorporating ultra-wideband (UWB) sensors and computing devices into the hair styling system described herein, users are able to control the functions and / or settings of the hair styler via gestures and movements of their bodies (e.g., their hands). This manipulation of the hair styler's functions and settings advantageously means that users can adjust the functions and / or settings of the hair styler during use; that is, they no longer need to remove their hair from the hair styler to view buttons and / or the user interface. Furthermore, the hair styler can be controlled from a seated position without the user having to move around.

[0077] Furthermore, by incorporating UWB sensors and computing devices into the hair styling system described herein, combinations of gestures and their positions relative to a part of the user's body (e.g., the head) can be used to control the functions and / or settings of the hair styler, thereby advantageously providing a greater array of gestures that can be used to control the settings / functions of the hair styler. This, in turn, means that a higher level of functionality can be achieved.

[0078] When using hair stylers at home, users are unlikely to attempt complex styles due to the complexity of the movements and / or the sequence of movements that may need to be performed with the styler. This, in turn, means that such hair stylers are not fully utilizing their potential.

[0079] Advantageously, by incorporating UWB sensors, computing devices, and radio frequency identification (RFID) tags into the hair styling system described herein, the system is able to determine / track the movements of the hair styler being performed by the user and provide appropriate feedback to assist their efforts to style their hair according to the desired style. For example, the computing device advantageously stores the settings and / or movement patterns necessary to achieve a specific style. After selecting the desired style via an appropriate user interface, the hair styling system compares the detected movements of the hair styler with movements stored in the computing device and associated with the desired hair style to determine whether the user has performed the movements correctly. Based on this determination, the hair styler system advantageously provides feedback to the user (e.g., audio, visual, and / or tactile feedback) to guide their styling technique. This, in turn, advantageously improves the overall user experience of the hair styler product. It is also hoped that this will advantageously encourage users to try more complex styles with their home hair stylers.

[0080] Furthermore, the use of UWB sensors, rather than other types of sensors (e.g., light-based time-of-flight sensors), as described above, offers numerous additional benefits to the hair styling system presented herein. For example, UWB sensors can advantageously pinpoint exact locations in real time with an accuracy of approximately 50 cm (under optimal conditions and deployment) and extremely low latency. This represents a significant advantage over other technologies such as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, which typically determine location via Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI), which can be used to determine location with an accuracy of approximately 5 meters. Therefore, UWB sensors are particularly advantageous when determining location in indoor environments.

[0081] In addition, given the proliferation of narrowband technology, it is also beneficial to use UWB sensors as mentioned above, since the low transmit power and wide frequency spectrum of UWB allow for minimal interference with surrounding narrowband technologies.

[0082] Finally, since the use of UWB sensors does not require dedicated infrastructure as described above, their implementation in hair styling systems is relatively simple and low-cost compared to other location determination methods such as cameras, light detection and ranging (LIDAR), etc.

[0083] Now refer to Figures 2 to 12 Let’s discuss each configuration of the hair styler system that has been briefly outlined above in more detail.

[0084] Gesture recognition

[0085] Figure 2 A hair styler system 200 is shown, which is used by end users to style their hair.

[0086] like Figure 2 As shown, the hair styling system 100 includes a handheld (portable) hair styling device 1, at least one ultra-wideband (UWB) sensor 220, and a processor 214. Optionally, the processor 214 may be disposed within the handheld (portable) hair styling device 1. Alternatively, if the processor 214 is disposed within the handheld (portable) hair styling device 1, it may form part of a computing device 210. Alternatively, the processor 214 may be located outside the handheld (portable) hair styling device 1. Again, if the processor 214 is located outside the handheld (portable) hair styling device 1, it may form part of a computing device 210. The handheld hair styling device 1 can be any suitable type of hair styling device, such as those previously referenced. Figure 1a and Figure 1b The device described.

[0087] UWB is a short-range wireless communication protocol that operates over a wide frequency band (e.g., above 500MHz) using radio waves at very high frequencies (e.g., between 3.1GHz and 10.6GHz). Unlike Wi-Fi and Bluetooth protocols, UWB is capable of capturing highly accurate spatial and orientation data. Further details about the UWB sensor 220 will be described with reference to Figure 3.

[0088] The computing device 210 can be any suitable electronic device capable of communication and data transmission between itself and the hair styler 1 and the UWB sensor 220. It should be understood that the computing device 210 can be a component of either the hair styler 1 or the UWB sensor 220. For example, suitable circuitry including a memory 212, a processor 214, and a communication module 216 can be provided in the hair styler 1 or as part of the UWB sensor 220.

[0089] Alternatively, computing device 210 may be an external device, such as a separate device independent of hair styler 1 and UWB sensor 220. For example, computing device 210 may be a simple computer processing device with appropriate circuitry (including memory 212, processor 214, and communication module 216), such as a personal computer, tablet computer, laptop computer, smart screen, etc.

[0090] In another example, computing device 210 may be a user equipment (UE), such as a UE used in a telecommunications system, like a smartphone. If computing device 210 is an external device such as a UE, it may be configured to communicate with hair styler 1 and UWB sensor 220 via any suitable wireless communication link 224, 226 capable of supporting communication between such devices. For example, they may communicate with each other via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or any other radio access technology that supports communication between devices in close proximity.

[0091] However, it should be understood that in the case where the computing device 210 is an external device (such as a UE), it may alternatively be configured to communicate with the hair styler 1 and the UWB sensor 210 via a wired connection between the hair styler 1 and the UWB sensor 210.

[0092] It should be understood that, depending on the form of the computer device 210, it may be configured with several other suitable modules. By way of example only, in the case where the computer device 210 is a UE (e.g., a smartphone), the computer device 210 may be equipped with an audio module 218 and one or more speakers for providing sound and / or music to the user during use of the hair styler 1.

[0093] like Figure 2 As shown, during use, the UWB sensor 220 can transmit radio pulses 230 to the user using the hair styler 1. For example (and as described in more detail below), the UWB sensor 220 can transmit radio pulses 230 with a wide frequency range (e.g., a band range above 500 MHz) to the user every 10 to 100 milliseconds. After transmitting these radio pulses 230, the UWB sensor 220 can subsequently receive (detect) the reflections of these radio pulses, which are converted into reflected radio pulse signals by a processor.

[0094] With its own processor, the UWB sensor 220 can process these reflected radio pulses to convert them into data (e.g., reflected radio pulse signals), and then transmit the data to the computing device 210 via communication link 224. It should be understood that the shorter the pulse duration, the more accurately the UWB sensor's processor can determine the distance measurement, thereby determining spatial and orientation information.

[0095] Alternatively, in the absence of its own processing capabilities, UWB sensor 220 may transmit appropriate information to computing device 210 via communication link 224, allowing computing device 210 to receive information about reflected radio pulses and convert it into spatial and directional data.

[0096] The time of arrival (ToA) of each reflected radio pulse signal depends on the distance of the object reflecting the radio pulse. Therefore, the reflected radio pulse signal can be used to determine the relative distance between the hair styler 1 and objects near the hair styler 1.

[0097] Furthermore, it should be understood that the power (e.g., amplitude) of such reflected radio pulse signals will depend on various factors, including the surface area (size) of the object from which the radio pulses are reflected. Therefore, the reflected radio pulse signals can also be used to determine the relative size of an object near the hair styler 1. As an example only, the object may include the user's hand, and the surface area of ​​the user's hand can vary depending on the gesture the user is performing; for example, a clenched fist gesture will result in a lower amplitude of the reflected radio pulse signal compared to an open palm gesture.

[0098] Each reflected radio pulse signal may include a linear combination of reflected radio pulses from N different paths (directions) and an additive noise term, such that within a predetermined time period, the reflected radio pulse signal comprises N delayed and distorted signals, for example, it can be algebraically represented as:

[0099]

[0100] Equation 1

[0101] in:

[0102] s(n,k) is an estimate of the shape of the transmitted pulse received at the receiver of the UWB sensor 220, which is typically distorted due to several different factors, such as the reflection, refraction, and scattering coefficients of the object.

[0103] N is additive noise.

[0104] a ni It is the scaling factor of the signal, and

[0105] T i It refers to the duration.

[0106] Once received, each reflected radio pulse signal can also be corrected as needed to remove “clutter” from the signal. Clutter is defined as the component of the reflected pulse signal (also simply “reflected signal”) caused by background objects, i.e., objects far from the UWB sensor 220, such as a wall behind the user. By applying this correction, the remaining features of each reflected radio pulse signal can be sharper, enabling the processor to more clearly identify the presence of objects (e.g., gestures) in the foreground of the hair styler 1.

[0107] Based on reflected radio pulse signals, computer device 210 can (further) process the signals to determine a user's gesture. For example, processor 214 of communication device 210 can compare the signals with one or more gesture recognition models stored in memory 212 of communication device 210 to determine whether the user has performed a specific gesture.

[0108] After determining that a user has performed a specific gesture, computer device 210 can determine one or more functions of the hair styler 1 to be adjusted based on the determined gesture. As an example only, the computer device can determine that the temperature of the hair styler 1 will be adjusted based on the determined gesture. In response to determining that one or more functions of the hair styler 1 need to be adjusted, computing device 210 can send appropriate messages and / or commands to the hair styler 1 (e.g., via wireless communication link 226) to adjust one or more functions of the hair styler 1.

[0109] Beneficial, Figure 2 The system shown allows the use of gestures (e.g., hand gestures) to control the hair styler 1 without having to press a button on the hair styler 1 or use a touchscreen for input. Advantageously, the user is thus able to control the hair styler 1 while continuing to style their hair (i.e., without interrupting the styling process). Furthermore, the user can more easily control the hair styler 1 during use without having to move from their seated position.

[0110] Figure 3a Possible internal components / modules of the UWB sensor 220 are shown.

[0111] like Figure 3a As shown, in Figure 2 The UWB sensor 220 implemented in the illustrated system has a transceiver 312 that transmits UWB pulses and receives reflected UWB pulses in response. The transmitted pulses typically have a duration of several nanoseconds, thus having a wide spectrum from approximately 500 MHz to 1.5 GHz. The pulses are typically transmitted at a pulse repetition frequency between 1 ms and 1 ns. The transceiver 312 also receives reflected radio pulses from the user and other objects near the UWB transceiver 312. It should be understood that, although Figure 3aThe UWB sensor 220 is shown as having a transceiver 312 for facilitating the transmission and reception of radio pulses, but the UWB sensor 220 may alternatively be provided with separate transmitter and receiver circuits capable of transmitting and receiving pulses separately.

[0112] like Figure 3a As shown, the UWB sensor 220 may optionally be equipped with its own processor 314. For example, the UWB sensor 220 may be equipped with a processor 314 capable of processing reflected radio pulses to convert them into data (e.g., spatial and orientation data), and then transmitting this data to the computing device 220 via communication link 224. Alternatively, the UWB sensor 220 may not be equipped with its own processor 314, in which case the UWB sensor 220 may transmit appropriate information to the computing device 210 via communication link 224 to allow the computing device 210 to receive information about the reflected radio pulses and convert it into spatial and orientation data.

[0113] In addition, such as Figure 3a As shown, the UWB sensor 220 is equipped with a communication module 316 to allow communication with one or more external devices. For example, the UWB sensor 220 can communicate with one or more computing devices (…). Figure 3a The UWB sensor 220 communicates with one or more computing devices 210 (not shown) and / or hair styler 1 via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or any other radio access technology that enables communication between devices in close proximity. Alternatively, the UWB sensor 220 may communicate with one or more computing devices 210 (not shown) and / or hair styler 1 via a wired connection between the hair styler 1 and the computing device 210.

[0114] Figure 3b The circuit of the UWB sensor 220 is shown.

[0115] like Figure 3b As shown, the UWB sensor 220 includes an oscillator 220-3 and a pulse generator 220-4 for generating ultra-wideband pulses of electromagnetic radiation. The ultra-wideband pulses may optionally pass through a modulator 220-5 in preparation for transmission by a transmit (Tx) antenna 220-7. Figure 3b As shown, before being transmitted by the Tx antenna 220-7, the pulse can also pass through the power amplifier 220-6 to increase the power (i.e., amplitude) of the pulse.

[0116] UWB sensor 220 also includes receiver (Rx) antenna 220-8 for receiving reflected UWB signals. Once received by Rx antenna 220-8, the reflected UWB signals are passed through low-band filter 220-9 to allow processing of reflected UWB signals below a cutoff frequency threshold while attenuating all signals above that threshold. The reflected UWB signals are also passed through low-noise amplifier 220-19 to amplify very low-power signals without significantly degrading their signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). The reflected UWB signals (and / or information about these reflected UWB signals) are then processed by processor 314. For example, the reflected UWB signals (and / or information about those reflected UWB signals) may be processed by processor 314 to determine the proximity of the user of hair styler 1 to hair styler 1, which will be described in more detail later.

[0117] Optionally, before being processed by processor 314, the reflected UWB signal may also pass through correlator receiver 220-11 to correlate the reflected UWB signal with the UWB pulse transmitted by Tx antenna 220-7. For example, the reflected UWB signal may pass through mixer 220-12, where the received signal is mixed with a copy of the transmitted UWB pulse, the resulting mixed signal is integrated by integrator 220-13, and then processed by processor 314.

[0118] Figure 4a An exemplary static gesture and its processing are shown to adjust the functionality of hair styler 1.

[0119] like Figure 4a As shown, there exists a reference to the above. Figure 2 The computing device 210 communicates with the UWB sensor 220. It should be understood that the computing device 210 may be located outside both the UWB sensor 220 and the hair styler 1. Alternatively, the computing device may be housed within the hair styler 1. It should also be understood that when the computing device 210 is located outside the hair styler 1, the computing device 210 may communicate with the hair styler 1 via a suitable communication link (e.g., communication link 226). The UWB sensor 220 communicates with the computing device 210 via communication link 224.

[0120] As briefly described above, a user of the hair styler 1 can control one or more functions of the hair styler 1 via gestures (e.g., hand gestures) 410. This is merely an example. Figure 4a A possible gesture that a user can use to control one or more functions of the hair styler 1 is shown. The gesture shown (hereinafter referred to as the "metal salute" gesture) involves the user extending the index and little fingers of one of their hands while closing the remaining fingers and thumb toward the palm.

[0121] During use of the hair styler 1, the end user sits (or alternatively stands) in front of at least one UWB sensor 220, which in turn emits UWB radio pulses 230 toward the user. These UWB radio pulses 230 propagate through the air and space, their energy dissipating with increasing distance from the UWB sensor 220. Upon reaching an object such as the user, the user's hand, or a wall behind the user, these UWB radio pulses 230 are reflected (not shown) back to the UWB sensor 220 from the corresponding object, which then detects the reflected pulses in the form of a reflected pulse signal as described above. Based on the reflected pulse signal, the processor 314 of the UWB sensor 220 or the processor 214 of the computing device 210 processes the signal (or related information) to determine highly accurate spatial and orientation data in the form of a signal graph 420 (e.g., a distance-amplitude signal graph).

[0122] Processing reflected pulse signals can include any suitable form of processing known in the art, which allows the generation of graphs such as distance-amplitude signal plots and / or distance-time signal plots, and / or time-varying distance-amplitude signal plot sequences.

[0123] As mentioned earlier, the amplitude of the reflected pulse signal will vary depending on the size (surface area) of the object from which the pulse is reflected. For example, Figure 4a The distance-amplitude signal diagram 420 shown is an example of the signal amplitude detected when the reflected pulse signal is the result of a UWB pulse being reflected from the hand of a user making a "metal salute" gesture.

[0124] Once the spatial and orientation data in the form of a signal map 420 is determined, the computing device 210 (which may have already determined the signal map 420 itself, or alternatively received the signal map 420 from the UWB sensor 220) uses the signal map 420 to determine the gesture that the user is performing.

[0125] By way of example only, the processor 214 of the computing device 210 can determine the gesture made by the user of the hair styler 1 based on comparing one or more aspects of the signal / signal graph 420 with tables stored in the memory 212 of the computing device 210. For example, one or more mapping tables may be stored in the memory 212 of the computing device 210, which map specific amplitude values ​​or sequences of amplitude values ​​to specific gestures. The processor 214 is able to process the signal / signal graph 420 to identify one aspect of the signal / signal graph 420 (e.g., an amplitude value assuming it corresponds to the distance of the user from the distance sensor), and then look up that aspect in one or more mapping tables to identify the gesture being performed by the user of the hair styler 1.

[0126] As another example, the processor 214 of computing device 210 can compare the signal map 420 with one or more gesture recognition models stored in the memory 212 of computing device 210 to determine the gesture being made by the user of hair styler 1. For example, the memory 212 of computing device 210 may store multiple recognition models, each associated with its own corresponding gesture. Each of these multiple recognition models may include the signal map 420 (or data corresponding to such a signal map 420), which corresponds to the reflected UWB signal expected to be detected by the receiver when a specific gesture is performed in front of UWB sensor 220.

[0127] Once the signal map 420 has been compared with one or more gesture recognition models stored in the memory 212 of the computing device 210, the processor 214 can determine the gesture being performed by the user. For example, when performing this comparison, the processor 214 compares the signal map 420 with one or more gesture recognition models to determine a matching metric for each comparison performed. The matching metric may (by way of example only) include a percentage similarity value, which indicates the percentage similarity between the signal map 420 and the gesture recognition model, i.e., the percentage similarity between the signal map 420 and the signal map of the gesture recognition model. However, it should be understood that the matching metric can be any suitable metric that indicates the similarity or matching level between the signal map 420 and the gesture recognition model.

[0128] Based on the matching metric, processor 214 determines which gesture recognition model best matches signal graph 420. For example, the processor can select the gesture recognition model associated with the maximum percentage similarity value. By determining which gesture recognition model best matches signal graph 420, processor 214 further determines which gesture the user is performing, since each gesture recognition model is associated with its own specific gesture (e.g., the "metal salute" gesture).

[0129] Based on the gesture being performed by the user, the processor 214 determines the function of the hair styler 1 to be adjusted and sends appropriate messages or commands via the communication link 226 with the hair styler 1 to adjust the corresponding function of the hair styler 1. For example, after determining that the user is performing a "metal salute" gesture, the processor 214 can send appropriate messages or commands to the hair styler 1 to adjust the temperature of the hair styler 1. For example, the temperature of the hair styler 1 can be gradually increased each time a "metal salute" gesture is detected, such as 120°C, 140°C, 160°C, 180°C, 210°C.

[0130] It should be understood that, although the above describes the situation where the temperature of the hair styler 1 can be gradually increased, such as 120°C, 140°C, 160°C, 180°C, 210°C, another gesture (such as an inverted "metal salute" gesture as an example) can also be configured such that when the gesture is detected, the temperature of the hair styler gradually decreases in steps of, for example, 20°C.

[0131] Furthermore, it should be understood that further gestures can be configured to trigger a "hard stop," preventing the temperature from rising above its current temperature.

[0132] Although the above reference Figure 4a The gestures described refer to static gestures, but it should be understood that the same system can be used to detect dynamic gestures. Furthermore, by placing multiple UWB sensors 220 at different positions in front of the user (e.g., one sensor in front of the user, one sensor on the user's left, and one sensor on the user's right), the system can distinguish between left-hand and right-hand gestures, allowing the user to control more functions / settings of the hair styler 1.

[0133] Figure 4b An exemplary dynamic gesture and its processing are shown to adjust the functionality of hair styler 1.

[0134] like Figure 4b As shown, there exists a reference to the above. Figure 2 The described computing device 210 communicates with three UWB sensors 220-1, 220-2, and 220-3. UWB sensors 220-1, 220-2, and 220-3 communicate with the computing device 210 via communication links 224-1, 224-2, and 224-3, respectively. It should be understood that the computing device 210 may be located outside both the UWB sensors 220 and the hair styler 1. Alternatively, the computing device may be housed within the hair styler 1. It should also be understood that when the computing device 210 is located outside the hair styler 1, the computing device 210 may communicate with the hair styler 1 via an appropriate communication link (e.g., communication link 226).

[0135] As briefly described above, the user of hair styler 1 can control one or more functions of hair styler 1 via gestures (e.g., hand gestures) 430. This is merely an example. Figure 4b A possible gesture that a user can use to control one or more functions of the hair styler 1 is shown. The gesture 430 shown (hereinafter referred to as the "swipe right" gesture) involves the user moving their hand from left to right.

[0136] During the use of the hair styler 1, the end user sits in front of UWB sensors 220-1, 220-2, and 220-3, which are located in front of, to the left of, and to the right of the user. These sensors then emit UWB radio pulses 230-1, 230-2, and 230-3 towards the user. These UWB radio pulses 230-1, 230-2, and 230-3 propagate through the air and space, and their energy dissipates with increasing distance from the UWB sensors 220-1, 220-2, and 220-3. Upon reaching objects such as the user, the user's hand, or a wall behind the user, the UWB radio pulses 230-1, 230-2, and 230-3 are reflected (not shown) back to the corresponding UWB sensors 220-1, 220-2, and 220-3, which then detect the reflected pulses in the form of reflected pulse signals as described above.

[0137] However, unlike static gesture scenarios, the reflected pulse signals received at different UWB sensors 220-1, 220-2, and 220-3 will change as the user moves their hand from left to right, such as... Figure 4b The distance-time graph shown is illustrated.

[0138] Based on the reflected pulse signals, the processor 214 of the computing device 210 processes the reflected signals to determine highly accurate spatial and orientation data, in the form of signals from each UWB sensor 220-1, 220-2, 220-3 (e.g., as shown in Figures 320-1, 320-2, 320-3). Figure 4b The three distance-time signal plots are shown. More specifically, each time a UWB pulse is emitted from the three UWB sensors 220-1 to 220-3, a new amplitude / distance plot (such as...) is generated. Figure 4a (As shown). This information is processed to identify the distance to specific objects, and the changes in the distance to these objects over time are determined by processing signals received from continuous UWB pulses emitted from UWB sensor 220. The pulse repetition frequency must be sufficient to capture the desired motion. A pulse repetition frequency on the order of 10 kHz is sufficient to capture most human motion. Distance information about more static objects (such as a background wall or the user's head) contained in the reflected UWB signal can be filtered out, such that the determined distance-time signal graphs 320-1, 320-2, and 320-3 contain distance information for moving objects such as the user's hand. By processing the distance-time graphs 320-1, 320-2, and 320-3 from the top, left, and right UWB sensors, processor 214 can determine whether the moving object is to the left or right of the user's head, and how the object has moved relative to each UWB sensor 220 over time. This information can then be used to select the appropriate control function to be performed.

[0139] Once the spatial and directional data in the form of signal diagrams 320-1, 320-2, and 320-3 are determined, the computing device 210 uses the signal diagram 420 to determine the dynamic gesture being performed by the user, which is achieved by analyzing the signal diagrams 320-1, 320-2, and 320-3 themselves as described above.

[0140] Alternatively, computing device 210 can use signal graphs 320-1, 320-2, and 320-3 to determine the dynamic gesture being performed by the user by analyzing signal graphs 320-1, 320-2, and 320-3 and comparing them with a pre-stored gesture model, as previously done in the case of static gestures.

[0141] Based on the gesture being performed by the user, the processor 214 determines the function of the hair styler 1 or the computing device 210 to be adjusted, and sends an appropriate message or command to adjust the function of the hair styler 1 or the computing device 210. For example, after determining that the user is performing a "swipe right" gesture, the processor 214 may send an appropriate message to adjust the music track currently being played on the computing device 210.

[0142] The process of gesture recognition and setting adjustments for hair styler 1 will refer to... Figure 5 The flowchart is described further.

[0143] Figure 5 An exemplary process flowchart is shown, depicting the steps involved in using gesture-based control of the hair styler 1 and / or computing device 210.

[0144] In step S510, UWB sensor 220 transmits UWB pulses to the user operating hair styler 1. The UWB sensor transmits radio pulses 230 approximately every 10 to 100 milliseconds, spanning a wide frequency spectrum. These radio pulses propagate through the air toward the user operating hair styler 1 and, upon impact with an object (e.g., the user's hand), are reflected back to UWB sensor 220 from that object.

[0145] In step S520, the reflected UWB pulse is received by the UWB sensor 220.

[0146] In step S530, the reflected UWB pulse is processed by the processor of the UWB sensor 220 or the processor of the computing device to determine the gesture performed by the user.

[0147] In step S540, after determining the gesture performed by the user, the computing device 210 sends an appropriate message or command to the hair styler 1 based on the performed gesture to adjust the function and / or settings of the hair styler 1. For example, the memory 212 of the computing device 210 may store a mapping table that maps specific gestures to specific functions and / or settings, and when the specific gesture is detected, the specific function and / or setting of the hair styler 1 will be adjusted. After determining which gesture is being performed, the computing device 210 can look up the gesture in the mapping table stored in its memory 212 to determine the function and / or setting of the hair styler 1 to be adjusted based on the gesture. After determining the function and / or setting, the computing device 210 can send an appropriate message or command to the hair styler 1 via a communication link; that is, each gesture is associated with one of a plurality of control commands, and in response to the detection of a specific gesture, the processor is configured to send a corresponding control command to the hair styler 1.

[0148] Alternatively or additionally, in step S540, after determining the gesture being performed by the user, computing device 210 may determine one or more functions and / or settings of computing device 210 to be adjusted based on the gesture being performed. For example, memory 212 of computing device 210 may store a mapping table that maps specific gestures to specific functions and / or settings of computing device 210 (additionally or alternatively mapped to specific functions and / or settings of hair styler 1), which will be adjusted when the specific gesture is detected. After determining which gesture is being performed, computing device 210 can look up the gesture in the mapping table stored in its memory 212 to determine the functions of computing device 210 to be adjusted based on the gesture. Computing device 210 can then appropriately adjust one or more of its functions and / or settings. By way of example only, if computing device 210 has an audio module 218 (e.g., if computing device 210 is a smartphone), computing device 210 may be able to play music while the user styles their hair using hair styler 1. Therefore, users can use gestures to change the music track being played.

[0149] An example of a gesture-function mapping table that can be stored in the memory 212 of the computing device 210 will now be referenced. Figure 6 Describe it.

[0150] Figure 6An exemplary gesture-function mapping table is shown, which can be stored in the memory 212 of the computing device 210. As shown, table 600 includes four exemplary gestures that a user can use to control and / or adjust the functions and / or settings of the hair styler 1. In one example, a user can make a “metal salute” gesture with one of their hands, in which the user extends their index and little fingers while closing the rest of their fingers and thumb.

[0151] In response to the usage reference Figure 5 The described process detects a "metal salute" gesture, and computing device 210 can determine, based on table 600, that the user wishes to control and / or adjust the temperature of hair styler 1. As an example only, each time the user makes a "metal salute" gesture, computing device 210 can determine that the user wishes to increase the temperature of hair styler 1 by a set amount. As shown in table 600, possible temperature settings for hair styler 1 can be pre-configured in a specific pattern, such that each time a "metal salute" gesture is detected, the computing device sends an appropriate message or command to the hair styler to change the temperature of hair styler 1 to the next temperature in the pre-configured temperature pattern. As an example only, the pre-configured temperature pattern could be {120°C, 140°C, 160°C, 180°C, 210°C}. If hair styler 1 is at its highest temperature of 210°C, in response to the detection of a "metal salute" gesture, computing device 210 can send an appropriate message or command to hair styler 1 to cycle the temperature back to the beginning of the pre-configured temperature pattern, such as 120°C. It should be understood that the pre-configured temperature modes given are only examples, and other modes are possible.

[0152] In another example, a user can extend their index finger and make a fist with the remaining fingers and thumb to create a "finger gun" gesture. (Responding to the reference) Figure 5 The described process detects a "finger gun" gesture, and the computing device 210 can determine, based on Table 600, the thermal spray feature that the user wishes to control in the hair styler 1. As an example only, in response to determining that the user has performed a "finger gun" gesture, the computing device 210 sends an appropriate message or command to the hair styler 1 to activate its thermal spray function (e.g., rapidly increasing the temperature of the hair styler 1 over a predetermined time period) to inject heat into the user's hair.

[0153] In another example, a user can make a "swipe" gesture with their hand. A "swipe" gesture can include swiping left or right. Each case will be discussed in turn. A user can make a "swipe" gesture by swiping left (i.e., a "swipe left" gesture). (Responding to the use of reference...) Figure 5The described process detects a "swipe left" gesture, and computing device 210 can determine, based on table 600, that the user wishes to replay the current music track that computing device 210 is playing. Then, computing device 210 can restart the currently playing music track.

[0154] In another example, a user can make another "hand swipe" gesture with their hand. For example, a user can make a "hand swipe" gesture to the right (i.e., a "swipe right" gesture). (In response to using reference...) Figure 5 The described process detects a "swipe right" gesture, and computing device 210 can determine, based on table 600, that the user wishes to skip the currently playing music track. Then, computing device 210 can skip the currently playing music track.

[0155] In another example (not shown in Table 600), a user may use their hand to make a confirmation gesture, such as a "thumbs up" gesture, to confirm whether they wish to continue the styling process or procedure. For example, when a user is practicing with hair styler 1 and hair styler 1 is operating in training mode, hair styler 1 may not heat its heating plate, thus not applying heat to the user's hair. In response to detecting a "thumbs up" gesture, computing device 210 may determine that the user wishes to switch from training mode to styling mode of hair styler 1, and computing device 210 may send an appropriate message or command to hair styler 1 to initiate styling mode, which may include initiating the heating process of the heating plate of hair styler 1 to allow heat to be applied to the user's hair.

[0156] In another example (not shown in Table 600), a user may use their hand to make a negative gesture, such as a "thumbs down" gesture, to indicate that they are not yet ready to continue the styling process or procedure. For example, when a user is practicing with hair styler 1 and hair styler 1 is operating in training mode, hair styler 1 may not heat its heating plate, thus not applying heat to the user's hair. In response to detecting a "thumbs down" gesture, computing device 210 may determine that the user wishes to remain in training mode of hair styler 1, and computing device 210 may send an appropriate message or command to hair styler 1 to instruct hair styler 1 to remain in training mode.

[0157] It should be understood that, Figure 6 The mapping table 600 is given only as an example, and the system can be configured with any number of gestures that can be used to control and / or adjust the functions and / or settings of the hair styler 1 or the computing device 210. For example, the system can be configured such that specific gestures can be used to adjust and / or control (to name just a few): the cold spray function of the hair styler 1, and the styling mode of the hair styler 1.

[0158] Head position detection

[0159] In addition to or as an alternative to the gesture recognition process described above, a hair styler system 100 including a handheld (portable) hair styler 1, an ultra-wideband (UWB) sensor 220, and a computing device 210 (such as...) Figure 2 (As shown) It can also be configured to detect the user's head position.

[0160] Figure 7 An exemplary use of a signal graph, generated by reflected UWB pulses, is shown to determine the user's head position and the gesture performed relative to that determined head position.

[0161] like Figure 7 As shown, there are three UWB sensors 220-1, 220-2, and 220-3, which are the same as the reference mentioned above. Figure 2 The computing device 210 described in Figure 3 communicates with the UWB sensors 220-1, 220-2, and 220-3 via communication links 224-1, 224-2, and 224-3, respectively. It should be understood that the computing device 210 may be located outside both the UWB sensor 220 and the hair styler 1. Alternatively, the computing device may be housed within the hair styler 1. It should also be understood that when the computing device 210 is located outside the hair styler 1, it may communicate with the hair styler 1 via an appropriate communication link (e.g., communication link 226).

[0162] As briefly described above, a user of the hair styler 1 can control one or more functions of the hair styler 1 via gestures (e.g., hand gestures) 430. Additionally or alternatively, a user of the hair styler 1 can control one or more functions of the hair styler 1 via a combination of gestures (e.g., hand gestures) 430 and the position of the gestures (e.g., the position of the gestures relative to the user's head).

[0163] For example only, Figure 7 A possible gesture that a user can use to control one or more functions of the hair styler 1 is shown. The gesture shown (hereinafter referred to as the "swipe right" gesture) involves the user moving their hand from left to right.

[0164] During the use of the hair styler 1, the end user sits in front of UWB sensors 220-1, 220-2, and 220-3, which are located in front of, to the left of, and to the right of the user. These sensors then emit UWB radio pulses 230-1, 230-2, and 230-3 towards the user. These UWB radio pulses 230-1, 230-2, and 230-3 propagate through the air and space, and their energy dissipates with increasing distance from the UWB sensors 220-1, 220-2, and 220-3. Upon reaching objects such as the user, the user's hand, or a wall behind the user, the UWB signal is reflected (not shown) from the corresponding object back to the UWB sensors 220-1, 220-2, and 220-3, which then detect the reflected pulses, which are in the form of reflected pulse signals as described above.

[0165] Based on the reflected pulse signals, the processor 214 of the computing device 210 processes the reflected signals to determine highly accurate spatial and orientation data, in the form of signals from each UWB sensor 220-1, 220-2, 220-3 (e.g., as shown in Figures 320-1, 320-2, 320-3). Figure 7 The three distance-time signal plots are shown. More specifically, each time a UWB pulse is emitted from the three UWB sensors 220-1 to 220-3, a new amplitude / distance plot is generated (e.g., Figure 4a (As shown). This information is processed to identify the distance to specific objects, and the changes in these objects with distance are determined by processing the signals received from continuous UWB pulses emitted from UWB sensors 220-1, 220-2, and 220-3.

[0166] The pulse repetition frequency must be sufficient to capture the desired motion. A pulse repetition frequency on the order of 10 kHz is sufficient to capture most human motion. Distance information about more static objects (such as a background wall or the user's head) contained in the reflected UWB signal can be filtered out, such that the determined distance-time signal graphs 320-1, 320-2, and 320-3 contain distance information about moving objects such as the user's hand. By processing the distance-time graphs 320-1, 320-2, and 320-3 from the top, left, and right UWB sensors, the processor 214 can determine whether the moving object is to the left or right of the user's head, and how the object moves relative to each UWB sensor 220 over time. This information can then be used to select the appropriate control function to be performed.

[0167] Once the spatial and directional data in the form of signal diagrams 320-1, 320-2, and 320-3 are determined, the computing device 210 uses signal diagrams 320-1, 320-2, and 320-3 to determine the dynamic gesture being performed by the user, employing the aforementioned reference... Figure 4bOne way to describe it. For example, based on signal diagrams 320-1, 320-2, and 320-3, computing device 210 can determine that the user is performing a swipe gesture from left to right (or from right to left) in front of UWB sensors 220-1, 220-2, and 220-3.

[0168] It should be understood that the reflected pulse signals received at the different UWB sensors 220-1, 220-2, and 220-3 are the result of reflections from the user's hand moving in space. The reflected pulse signals will change as the user moves their hand from left to right, such as... Figure 7 The distance-time diagrams 320-1, 320-2, and 320-3 are shown. However, the user's head is stationary, resulting in a static signal 322 in the distance-time diagrams 320-1, 320-2, and 320-3, for example, the static portion of a reflected pulse signal that does not change with time. Therefore, the position of the user's head can also be determined based on the distance-time diagrams 320-1, 320-2, and 320-3, and whether the user's hand movement begins or ends on the left or right side of the user's head.

[0169] As another example, the processor 214 of computing device 210 may compare signal maps 320-1, 320-2, 320-3 with one or more gesture recognition models stored in memory 212 of computing device 210 to determine the gesture being performed by the user of hair styler 1. For example, memory 212 of computing device 210 may store multiple recognition models, each associated with its own corresponding gesture. Each of these multiple recognition models may include a set of signal maps 320-1, 320-2, 320-3 (or data corresponding to such signal maps 320-1, 320-2, 320-3) that correspond to reflected UWB signals expected to be detected by the receiver when a specific dynamic gesture is performed in front of UWB sensors 220-1, 220-2, 220-3.

[0170] Once signal maps 320-1, 320-2, and 320-3 have been compared with one or more gesture recognition models stored in memory 212 of computing device 210, processor 214 can determine the gesture being performed by the user. For example, when performing this comparison, processor 214 can compare signal maps 320-1, 320-2, and 320-3 with one or more gesture recognition models and can determine a matching metric for each comparison. The matching metric may (by way of example only) include a percentage similarity value, which indicates the percentage similarity between signal maps 320-1, 320-2, and 320-3 and the gesture recognition model; that is, the percentage similarity between signal maps 320-1, 320-2, and 320-3 and the signal maps of the gesture recognition model. However, it should be understood that the matching metric can be any suitable metric that indicates the similarity or matching level between signal maps 320-1, 320-2, and 320-3 and the gesture recognition model.

[0171] Based on the matching metric, processor 212 determines which gesture recognition model best matches signal maps 320-1, 320-2, and 320-3. For example, the processor can select the gesture recognition model associated with the maximum percentage similarity value. By determining which gesture recognition model best matches signal maps 320-1, 320-2, and 320-3, processor 212 further determines which gesture the user is performing, since each gesture recognition model is associated with its own specific gesture (e.g., a "swipe right" gesture).

[0172] Furthermore, based on the known positions of the static signal 322 and the UWB sensors 220-1, 220-2, and 220-3, the processor 214 is also able to determine the position of the user's head, as well as the position for performing the gesture (when static) or the position relative to the start and end of the user's head (when dynamic).

[0173] Based on the determination of the gesture being performed by the user, and the position of the gesture relative to the user's head, the processor 212 determines the function of the hair styler 1 or the computing device 210 to be adjusted, and sends appropriate messages or commands to adjust the function of the hair styler 1 or the computing device 210. For example, after determining that the user is performing a "swipe right" gesture, the processor 212 may send an appropriate message to adjust the music track currently being played on the computing device 210.

[0174] Advantageously, by being able to determine which parts of the reflected signal correspond to reflections from the left and right sides of the user's head, the computing device 210 is able to use more advanced gestures to adjust and / or control one or more functions and / or settings of the hair styler 1. For example, the computing device 210 can determine the position of the gesture relative to the user's head; for instance, the computing device 210 can determine that the user is making a "metal salute" gesture on the left side of the user's head, which may correspond to a request to control and / or adjust the temperature of the hair styler 1 by increasing the temperature. Similarly, the computing device 210 can determine that the user is making a "metal salute" gesture on the right side of the user's head, which may correspond to a request to control and / or adjust the temperature of the hair styler 1 by decreasing the temperature.

[0175] It should be understood that the ability to determine a gesture and such a combination of gestures and their execution positions relative to the right and left sides of the user's head allows for the differentiation of a greater number of gestures, thereby allowing for control of more functions or settings of the hair styler 1 and / or the computing device.

[0176] Figure 8 An exemplary process flowchart is shown, depicting another step involved in gesture-based control of the hair styler 1 and / or computing device 210.

[0177] In step S810, UWB sensors 220-1, 220-2, and 220-3 transmit UWB pulses to the user operating the hair styler 1. The UWB sensors transmit UWB radio pulses 230 (e.g., approximately one pulse every 1 millisecond) spanning a wide frequency spectrum. These radio pulses propagate through the air toward the user operating the hair styler 1 and, upon impact with an object (e.g., the user's hand), are reflected back to the UWB sensors 220-1, 220-2, and 220-3.

[0178] In step S820, the reflected UWB pulse is received by UWB sensors 220-1, 220-2, and 220-3.

[0179] In step S830, the reflected UWB pulse is processed by the processor to process the reflected UWB pulse into spatial and directional data, such as a signal map (S832).

[0180] In step S838, after determining the gesture being performed by the user, the computing device 210 analyzes the signals in the determined signal graph to identify the portion of the signal corresponding to the reflected UWB pulses from the user's head. For example, the computing device 210 may determine that the portion of the signal having its maximum static amplitude (not changing over time) corresponds to the UWB reflected pulses from the user's head. For example, since the user's head is not moving, a static portion (amplitude) of the signal is expected to exist in the distance-time graph for a period of time, and the initiation of a new gesture will cause a new amplitude signal to appear in the signal graph. Therefore, when a new amplitude signal is observed in the signal graph, this new amplitude can be attributed to the new gesture being performed relative to the static portion (amplitude) of the signal corresponding to the user's head.

[0181] Once the portion of the signal associated with the UWB pulse reflected from the user's head is identified, the computing device 210 can assign segments of the signal to the left and right sides of the user's head, respectively. For example, assuming the user is facing UWB sensors 220-1, 220-2, and 220-3 located on the user's left, center, and right sides, respectively, and the relative positions of these UWB sensors are known to the computing device 210, then using the identified portion of the signal associated with the UWB pulse reflected from the user's head, the computing device 210 can divide the signal into a first (left) segment and a second (right) segment located on the left and right sides of the identified static signal, respectively. The first segment of the signal will correspond to the UWB pulse reflected from the left side of the user's head, and the second segment will correspond to the UWB pulse reflected from the right side of the user's head. In this way, the computing device 210 is able to determine whether a new gesture observed is being performed on the left and right sides of the user's head, respectively.

[0182] Alternatively, refer to the above. Figure 7 In the case of a dynamic gesture that moves from left to right or from right to left, the computing device 210 can determine whether the gesture begins or ends on the left or right side of the user's head.

[0183] In step S840, after determining the gesture being performed by the user and its position relative to the left and right sides of the user's head (e.g., whether the gesture is on the left or right side of the head, or whether it begins or ends on the left or right side of the head), the computing device 210 sends an appropriate message or command to the hair styler 1 based on the gesture being performed to adjust the function and / or settings of the hair styler 1. For example, the memory 212 of the computing device 210 may store a mapping table that maps a specific gesture performed at a specific location to a specific function and / or setting of the hair styler 1, which will be adjusted when the specific gesture is detected. After determining which gesture is being performed, the computing device 210 can look up the gesture in the mapping table stored in its memory 212 to determine the function and / or setting of the hair styler 1 to be adjusted based on the gesture. After the functions and / or settings are determined, the computing device 210 can send appropriate messages or commands to the hair styler 1 via a communication link. That is, each gesture is associated with one of a plurality of control commands, and in response to the detection of a specific gesture, the processor is configured to send the corresponding control command to the hair styler 1.

[0184] Alternatively or additionally, in step S840, after determining the gesture being performed by the user and the position of the gesture relative to the left and right sides of the user's head, the computing device 210 may determine one or more functions and / or settings of the computing device 210 to be adjusted based on the gesture being performed. For example, the memory 212 of the computing device 210 may store a mapping table that maps a specific gesture performed at a specific location to a specific function and / or setting of the computing device 210 (additionally or alternatively mapped to a specific function and / or setting of the hair styler 1), which will be adjusted when the specific gesture is detected. After determining which gesture is being performed, the computing device 210 can look up the gesture in the mapping table stored in its memory 212 to determine the function and / or setting of the hair styler 1 to be adjusted based on the gesture. After determining the function and / or setting, the computing device 210 may appropriately adjust one or more of its functions and / or settings.

[0185] Shape recognition

[0186] In addition to or as a substitute for the gesture recognition and gesture location determination processes described above, a hair styler system 100 including a handheld (portable) hair styler 1, a UWB sensor 220, and a computing device 210 (such as...) Figure 2 (As shown) It can also be configured to recognize and provide feedback, that is, a process for recognizing shape movements performed by the user and providing appropriate feedback.

[0187] Figure 9An exemplary use of a signal graph, generated by reflected UWB pulses, is shown to determine styling movements performed by the user of hair styler 1.

[0188] like Figure 9 As shown, there exists a reference to the above. Figure 2 A UWB sensor 220 communicates with the computing device 210 described in Figure 3. The UWB sensor 220 communicates with the computing device 210 via a communication link 224. Although not shown, it should be understood that, as... Figure 2 As shown, the hair styler 1 communicates with the computing device 210 via a suitable communication link.

[0189] As briefly described above, it may be beneficial for the computing device 210 to determine the specific movements and / or actions a user is making while styling their hair using the hair styler 1 and to provide appropriate feedback to the user. For example, it may be beneficial to provide feedback to the user indicating that they are passing the hair through the hair styler 1 too fast or not fast enough to achieve the desired hair style. Additionally or alternatively, it may be beneficial to provide feedback to the user indicating whether the user's curling movements are performed correctly or incorrectly to achieve the desired hair style.

[0190] For example only, Figure 9 This illustrates one possible movement a user can make with the hair styler 1. The movement shown (hereinafter referred to as the "curling" movement) involves the user placing their hair strands in the hair styler 1 and then rotating the hair styler 1 to curl their hair.

[0191] Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Tags

[0192] In one example, one or more radio frequency identification (RFID) tags may be placed inside and / or on the hair styler 1. Such RFID tags typically include an integrated circuit (IC), an antenna, and a substrate. They use electromagnetic fields to automatically identify and track the object to which the tag is attached (e.g., the hair styler 1).

[0193] During use of the hair styler 1, the end user sits in front of at least one UWB sensor 220 (which in this scenario can be considered an RFID reader or interrogator), which in turn emits UWB radio pulses 230 toward the user and the hair styler 1. Upon reaching the hair styler 1, these UWB radio pulses 230 activate one or more RFID tags on the hair styler 1. These RFID tags can be passive tags that receive power from the UWB pulses (i.e., electromagnetic waves induce current in the antenna of the RFID tag), or alternatively, the RFID tags can be active tags that have their own power source, such as a battery. Alternatively, the RFID tags can be active tags connected to the power supply / circuit of the hair styler device. Preferably, the RFID tags on the hair styler 1 will be passive RFID tags.

[0194] Once activated, the one or more RFID tags can send signals back to the UWB sensor 220. For example, the one or more RFID tags can modulate the UWB signals they receive with their own unique ID (which may be an ID specific to the hair styler 1), so that the signals sent back to the UWB sensor 220 by the RFID tags carry ID information (e.g., hair styler ID information).

[0195] Once received, these signals sent back to the UWB sensor 220 by the RFID tag can be processed by the UWB sensor 220 itself (if it has a suitable processor for recovering such data). Alternatively, the UWB sensor 220 can forward these signals, or information about the signals, in an appropriate message to the computing device 210 for processing the signals and recovering the data they contain. For example, as Figure 9 As shown, when the hair styler 1 is pulled along a downward trajectory (e.g., when it is pulled past a hair strand), the electromagnetic (EM) signal detected by the UWB sensor 220 from the RFID tag will change over time as the trajectory of the hair styler 1 advances. As shown in the time-amplitude diagram 920 generated by the processor 214 based on the EM signal, the amplitude of the EM signal can change over time as the distance between the hair styler and the UWB sensor 220 changes. Therefore, the computing device 210 can use this EM signal and the generated time-amplitude diagram 920 to determine the movement of the hair styler 1 relative to the UWB sensor 220. Additionally, the computing device 210 can also use the UWB signal received by the UWB sensor 220 from the RFID tag to determine the identifier / type of the hair styler 1 being used, and thus can determine whether the movement of the hair styler 1 relative to the UWB sensor 220 is appropriate based on the type of hair styler 1 being used. For example, appropriate movements for a specific type of hair styler can be stored in the memory 212 of the computing device 210.

[0196] After determining that the user is moving the hair styler 1 in a specific way, appropriate feedback (e.g., visual, audio, and / or tactile feedback) can be provided to the user to indicate whether the user is using the hair styler 1 correctly to achieve the desired hair style.

[0197] As an example only, during the activation of the hair styler 1, a user can input a specific hair style they wish to achieve into the hair styler. This input can be via one or more buttons on the hair styler 1, and / or via the touch display or other suitable user interface of the hair styler 1, and / or via the touch display or other suitable user interface of a computing device (e.g., a phone or tablet). Once selected, the UWB sensor 210 and RFID tag can be used as described above to track the movement of the hair styler 1 to ensure that the user is using the hair styler 1 correctly to achieve the desired hair style. When it is determined that the user has not moved the hair styler 1 correctly to achieve the desired hair style (e.g., the detected movement can be compared with the expected set of movements required to achieve the desired hair style stored in the memory 212 of the computing device 210), the computing device 210 can then send appropriate messages to the hair styler 1 to provide feedback to the user, such as haptic feedback (e.g., vibration of the hair styler 1) and / or audio feedback from the hair styler 1, wherein the hair styler 1 is equipped with one or more speakers. Additionally or alternatively, the computing device 210 itself may provide feedback to the user, such as sound (if the computing device 210 has a speaker) or visual indications via the display of the computing device 210 (e.g., the screen of a smartphone).

[0198] It should be understood that the determination of the rotational movement of the hair styler 1 and the corresponding feedback described above are given only as examples, and other movements can also be determined and different types of feedback provided for each movement.

[0199] The process of shape recognition and providing appropriate feedback will now refer to Figure 10 The flowchart is described further.

[0200] Figure 10 An exemplary process flowchart is shown, depicting the steps involved in identifying the position and movement of the hair styler 1 and providing appropriate feedback based on the user's desired hair style.

[0201] In step S1010, the user of the hair styler 1 inputs information via any suitable user interface of the hair styler 1 (or computing device 210) to indicate the desired hair style to be achieved using the hair styler 1. It should be understood that possible hair styles selectable by the user can be pre-configured in the hair styler 1, and the movements required to achieve that style can be pre-stored in the memory of the hair styler 1 and / or in the application of the hair styler 1. Alternatively, if the hair styler 1 is configured to communicate with the computing device 210, the hair styler 1 can request the computing device 210 via an appropriate message to search the Internet and download the set of movements required to achieve a specific hair style, which can then be stored in the memory of the hair styler 1 and / or the memory of the computing device 210. In step S1020, one or more UWB sensors 220 transmit UWB pulses to the user operating the hair styler 1. UWB signals propagate through the air toward the user operating the hair styler 1, and upon reaching the hair styler 1, these UWB signals activate one or more RFID tags on the hair styler 1.

[0202] In step S1030, in response to a pulse excitation from the UWB sensor 220, one or more RFID tags on the hair styler 1 transmit one or more electromagnetic EM signals (i.e., EM pulses) back to the UWB sensor 220. These EM signals are generated and transmitted by the RFID tags in response to being near the UWB sensor (i.e., in response to receiving a UWB pulse from the UWB sensor 220). For example, the one or more RFID tags can modulate the UWB signals they receive with their own unique ID (which may be an ID specific to the hair styler 1), such that the signals sent back to the UWB sensor 220 by the RFID tags carry ID information (e.g., hair styler ID information).

[0203] If the RFID tag is an active tag, the EM signal is generated and transmitted using an energy source such as a battery. However, preferably, the RFID tag is a passive tag, so the EM signal is generated using radio energy from transmitted UWB pulses received from the UWB sensor 220.

[0204] In step S1040, the UWB sensor 220 processes the EM signals received from one or more RFID tags, or alternatively, the UWB sensor 220 may send appropriate information about the EM signals it receives to the computing device 210 to process the EM signals from one or more RFID tags.

[0205] Processing the EM signal in step S1040 may include determining the movement of the hair styler 1 based on the EM signal (S1044). For example, the computing device 210 may process the EM signal (or any appropriate information about the EM signal from the UWB sensor 220) to determine the movement of the hair styler 1 based on, for example, changes in the characteristics of such EM signal over time, such as rotation of the hair styler 1, downward / upward movement of the hair styler 1, etc. Additionally, as described above, processing the EM signal may also include processing the EM signal to recover data modulated in the signal, such as an ID specific to the hair styler 1.

[0206] In step S1050, the computing device 210 can compare the determined movement of the hair styler 1 with the set of movements required to achieve the desired hair style input by the user in step S1010. For example, the determined movement of the hair styler 1 can be compared with movements stored in the memory of the computing device 210 or downloaded from the Internet that are required to achieve the desired hair style. As an example only, if the user wants to achieve a specific hair style including curls, the computing device 210 can compare the determined rotational movement of the hair styler 1 with rotational movements stored in the memory of the computing device 210 or downloaded from the Internet that are required to achieve the desired hair style to determine whether the user is rotating the hair styler 1 correctly, for example, in the correct direction.

[0207] In step S1060, after comparing the determined rotational movement of the hair styler 1 with the rotational movements required to achieve the desired hair styling stored in the memory of the computing device 210 or downloaded from the Internet to determine whether the user is correctly rotating the hair styler 1 (e.g., rotating in the correct direction), the computing device 210 may provide appropriate feedback to the user via the computing device 210 or the hair styler 1 (e.g., audio, haptic, and / or visual feedback). For example, if the computing device 210 determines that the user is not rotating the hair styler 1 in the correct direction, the computing device 210 may send an appropriate message or command to the hair styler 1 to activate the haptic unit in the hair styler 1, causing the hair styler 1 to vibrate to indicate to the user that they are making a mistake. That is, each gesture / movement is associated with one of a plurality of feedback commands, and in response to detecting a specific gesture / movement, the processor is configured to send a corresponding feedback command to the hair styler 1 to trigger appropriate feedback.

[0208] In another example, if computing device 210 determines that the user is not rotating the hair styler 1 in the correct direction, computing device 210 can send an appropriate message or command to the hair styler 1 to activate the user interface or display on the hair styler 1 and display a message notifying the user that they are making a mistake. Alternatively (or additionally), if the hair styler is equipped with one or more speakers, computing device 210 can send an appropriate message or command to the hair styler 1 to trigger the one or more speakers to play an error or warning sound to notify the user that they are making a mistake.

[0209] In another example, if computing device 210 determines that the user is not rotating hair styler 1 in the correct direction, computing device 210 can display a message on its display to notify the user that they are making a mistake.

[0210] In another example, if computing device 210 determines that the user is not rotating hair styler 1 in the correct direction, computing device 210 may display an image or message, or play a sound (if computing device 210 is equipped with audio module 218 and speakers), to notify the user that they are making a mistake.

[0211] It should be understood that the examples given above are not exhaustive and appropriate feedback may be provided via the hair styler 1, the computing device 210, or other forms thereof in response to the computing device 210 determining a specific movement of the hair styler 1 and comparing that movement with the set of movements required to achieve the desired hair style.

[0212] Now refer to Figure 11 The table in the document describes a set of exemplary movements that a user might perform and the corresponding responses that a computing device might trigger.

[0213] Figure 11 A table illustrating exemplary movements and feedbacks that can be performed by a user, and that can be triggered by computing device 210 in response to determining these movements and comparing them to the set of movements required to achieve the desired hair style. As shown, table 1100 includes four exemplary movements that a user might perform, and the corresponding feedbacks that might be triggered. In one example, the movement is a linear movement of the hair styler 1, such as a straight, unidirectional downward movement that a user might perform while passing a strand of hair through the hair styler 1 to straighten their hair.

[0214] After determining that the user is moving the hair styler 1 in a straight line, the computing device 210 compares the determined movement of the hair styler 1 with the set of movements required to achieve the desired hair style. For example, the computing device 210 may compare the determined movement with the movement required to achieve the desired hair style input by the user in step S1010. As mentioned above, the movements required to achieve the desired hair style may be stored in the memory of the computing device 210, or downloaded to the memory of the computing device 210 once the user inputs the desired hair style in step S1010. Based on the comparison between the determined movement and the movements required to achieve the desired hair style, the computing device 210 may trigger appropriate feedback to the user. For example, the computing device 210 may indicate to the user whether they should / should not perform the movement, and / or indicate whether they are moving too slowly or too fast. As mentioned above, the computing device 210 may provide feedback in the form of visual or audio feedback. Alternatively or additionally, the computing device 210 may send appropriate messages or commands to the hair styler 1 via a communication link to trigger the hair styler 1 to provide appropriate feedback, such as visual or tactile feedback.

[0215] In another example, the movement is a curling movement (e.g., a rotational movement of the hair styler 1) to curl strands of hair in the hair styler 1. After determining that the user is moving the hair styler 1 with a curling movement, the computing device 210 compares the determined movement of the hair styler 1 with the set of movements required to achieve the desired hair style. For example, the computing device 210 may compare the determined movement with the movement required to achieve the desired hair style input by the user in step S1010. As mentioned above, the movements required to achieve the desired hair style may be stored in the memory of the computing device 210, or downloaded to the memory of the computing device 210 once the user inputs the desired hair style in step S1010. Based on the comparison between the determined movement and the movements required to achieve the desired hair style, the computing device 210 may trigger appropriate feedback to the user. For example, the computing device 210 may indicate to the user whether they should / should not perform the movement, and / or indicate whether they are curling in the correct direction. As mentioned above, the computing device 210 may provide feedback in the form of visual or audio feedback. Alternatively or additionally, the computing device 210 may send appropriate messages or commands to the hair styler 1 via a communication link to trigger the hair styler 1 to provide appropriate feedback, such as visual or tactile feedback.

[0216] In another example, the movement can be a random, non-specific / useful movement. After determining that the user is moving the hair styler 1 in a non-specific direction, the computing device 210 compares the determined movement of the hair styler 1 with the set of movements required to achieve the desired hair style. For example, the computing device 210 can compare the determined movement with the movement required to achieve the desired hair style input by the user in step S1010. As mentioned above, the movements required to achieve the desired hair style can be stored in the memory of the computing device 210, or can be downloaded to the memory of the computing device 210 once the user inputs the desired hair style in step S1010. As mentioned above, the computing device 210 and its corresponding memory can be located in the hair styler 1 itself, or alternatively, can be a separate external computing device, such as a telephone, tablet, etc.

[0217] Based on a comparison between the determined movement and the movement required to achieve the desired hair style, computing device 210 can trigger appropriate feedback to the user. For example, if the movement does not correspond to any movement required to achieve the desired hair style, computing device 210 can provide feedback indicating that the movement is not identifiable and / or not required to achieve the desired hair style (e.g., computing device 210 can play a random sound, such as a "magic wand" sound, as if the user has just cast a spell). As described above, computing device 210 can provide feedback in the form of visual or audio feedback. Alternatively or additionally, computing device 210 can send appropriate messages or commands to hair styler 1 via a communication link to trigger hair styler 1 to provide appropriate feedback, such as visual or tactile feedback.

[0218] In another example, the hair styler 1 operates in training mode to allow the user of the hair styler 1 to practice specific movements that might be needed to achieve the desired hair style. For example, the user can switch the hair styler 1 to training mode by making appropriate input via at least one user interface of the hair styler 1. In training mode, the user can input the desired hair style to achieve; however, the hair styler 1 will not heat its heating plate, allowing the user to practice the movements needed to achieve the desired hair style without actually styling their hair. In training mode, the movements of the hair styler 1 can include up-and-down movements of the hair styler 1 when its arms 4a, 4b are open. After determining that the user is moving the hair styler 1 up and down with its arms 4a, 4b open, the computing device 210 can determine that the user wishes to repeat the movements of the hair styler 1 that were just performed before the up-and-down movements. Advantageously, this allows the user to practice the movements of the hair styler 1 over and over until they have perfected the movements.

[0219] It should be understood that, Figure 11Table 1100 in the table is only an example, and the system can be configured to detect any of a variety of movements and provide any of a variety of corresponding feedback.

[0220] Pattern recognition

[0221] It should be understood that while some of the examples described above use RFID tags and UWB sensors 220 to determine the position and movement of the hair styler 1, other methods may also be used to detect the position and movement of the hair styler 1. For example, instead of RFID tags and UWB sensors 220, a camera may be set up that communicates with computing device 210 and is capable of tracking the position and movement of the hair styler 1.

[0222] Figure 12 An exemplary movement of the hair styler 1 and its processing are shown to provide user feedback.

[0223] like Figure 12 As shown, there exists a reference to the above. Figure 2 The described computing device 210 communicates with a camera 1220. The camera 1220 communicates with the computing device 210 via a communication link 1224. Although not shown, it should be understood that... Figure 2 As shown, the hair styler 1 communicates with the computing device 210 via a suitable communication link.

[0224] For example only, Figure 12 One possible movement of the hair styler 1 that a user might perform is shown. The movement shown involves the user rotating the hair styler to facilitate curling the hair strand when it is placed in the hair styler 1.

[0225] During the use of the hair styler 1, the end user sits in front of the camera 1220, which captures image data of the user and their use of the hair styler 1. A computing device 210 communicating with the camera can continuously or periodically process / analyze the image data generated by the camera 1220 to determine the movement pattern of the hair styler 1. For example, the computing device 210 can store image datasets corresponding to specific movements of the hair styler in its memory 212; for instance, the memory 212 of the computing device 210 can store image sequences of the hair styler 1 at different positions as it rotates over time. The processor of the computing device 210 can compare the image data captured by the camera 1220 with the image data stored in the memory of the computing device 210 to determine the movement of the hair styler 1. As an example, the processor can compare the image data with each image sequence (or image data) stored in the memory of the computing device 210 and assign a matching metric to each comparison, which indicates the similarity or percentage similarity between the captured image data and the specific image data stored in the memory 212 of the computing device 210.

[0226] Once the comparison is made, computing device 210 determines the movement pattern being performed by the user. For example, computing device 210 may determine the movement pattern being performed based on which image sequence (or image data) stored in the memory of computing device 210 was assigned the highest matching metric when compared with image data captured by camera 1120.

[0227] Once the comparison is made, the computing device 210 compares the determined movement pattern of the hair styler 1 with the movement pattern required to achieve the desired hair style input by the user (which may also be stored in the memory 212 of the computing device 210). For example, the determined movement pattern of the hair styler 1 may be compared with the movement patterns required to achieve the desired hair style stored in the memory of the computing device 210 or downloaded from the Internet.

[0228] As an example only, if a user wishes to achieve a specific hair style including curls, the computing device 210 can compare the determined movement pattern of the hair styler 1 with the rotational movements required to achieve the desired hair style stored in the memory of the computing device 210 or downloaded from the Internet to determine whether the user is rotating the hair styler 1 correctly, for example, in the correct direction.

[0229] After comparing the determined movement pattern of the hair styler 1 with the rotational movements required to achieve the desired hair styling stored in the memory of the computing device 210 or downloaded from the Internet to determine whether the user is rotating the hair styler 1 correctly (e.g., in the correct direction), the computing device 210 can provide appropriate feedback to the user (e.g., audio, tactile, and / or visual feedback) via the computing device 210 or the hair styler 1. For example, if the computing device 210 determines that the user is not rotating the hair styler 1 in the correct direction, the computing device 210 can send an appropriate message or command to the hair styler 1 to activate the tactile unit in the hair styler 1, causing the hair styler 1 to vibrate to indicate to the user that they are making a mistake.

[0230] It should be understood that the examples given above are not exhaustive, and appropriate feedback may be provided via the hair styler 1, the computing device 210, or other forms thereof in response to the computing device 210 determining a particular movement pattern of the hair styler 1 and comparing that movement pattern with one or more movement patterns required to achieve the desired hair style.

[0231] User proximity detection

[0232] control system

[0233] Figure 13A hair styler 10 is shown, which includes a computing device 1310 therein. For example, the computing device may take the form of one or more printed circuit boards (PCBs) with electronic components that provide computing processing capabilities to process data collected by one or more sensors of the hair styler 10. Alternatively (not shown), the hair styler 10 may communicate with an external computing device 1310 that provides computing processing capabilities to process data collected by one or more sensors of the hair styler 10 and transmitted to the external computing device 13210 via a communication link (e.g., via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, local area network (LAN) connection, etc.).

[0234] The computing device 1310 includes a processor 1314 (such as a microprocessor or CPU), a memory 1312, and several modules providing specific sensing and control circuitry. By way of example only, the computing device 1310 may include an orientation module 316 configured to perform orientation measurements and determine the orientation of the hair styler 10 relative to a specific reference point (e.g., the user's head / body). The computing device 1310 may include a proximity module 1318 configured to perform proximity measurements and determine the proximity of the hair styler 10 to the specific reference point (e.g., the user's head / body). Furthermore, the computing device 1310 may include a feedback module 1320 configured to provide appropriate feedback to the user. For example, the feedback module 1320 may be configured to allow the provision of at least one of audio, tactile, and visual feedback. However, it should be understood that the feedback module 1320 may be configured to allow the provision of any appropriate type or multiple types of feedback to the user for instruction.

[0235] In one example, the feedback could be audio feedback provided by one or more speakers located within the hair styler 10. In this scenario, the audio feedback could be triggered by the feedback module 1320 of the computing device 1310 within the hair styler 10. Alternatively, if the computing device 1310 is an external computing device 1310, the audio feedback could be triggered by the external computing device 1310 sending an appropriate message or command to the hair styler 10 via a communication link between the external computing device 1310 and the hair styler 10. Additionally or alternatively, if the computing device 1310 is an external computing device 1310, the audio feedback could be provided by one or more speakers of the external computing device 1310.

[0236] In another example, the feedback could be haptic feedback provided by one or more haptic units located within the hair styler 10. In this scenario, the haptic feedback (e.g., it could include vibrations of the hair styler 10) could be triggered by a feedback module 1320 of the computing device 1310 within the hair styler 10. Alternatively, if the computing device 1310 is an external computing device, the haptic feedback could be triggered by the external computing device 1310 sending an appropriate message or command to the hair styler 10 via a communication link between the external computing device 1310 and the hair styler 10.

[0237] In another example, the feedback may be visual feedback provided by one or more user interfaces (UIs) and / or displays set in the hair styler 10. In this scenario, the visual feedback may be triggered by the feedback module 1320 of the computing device 1310 within the hair styler 10. Alternatively, if the computing device 1310 is an external computing device 1310, the visual feedback may be triggered by the external computing device 1310 sending an appropriate message or command to the hair styler 10 via a communication link between the external computing device 1310 and the hair styler 10. Additionally or alternatively, if the computing device 1310 is an external computing device 1310, the visual feedback may be provided by one or more UIs and / or displays of the external computing device 1310. The modules and circuitry of the computing device 1310 for monitoring and controlling the hair styler 10, which have been briefly described above, will now be described in more detail with reference to FIG. 14.

[0238] Figure 14a The computing device 1310 component and module of the hair styling device 10 are shown.

[0239] like Figure 14a As shown, the computing device 1310 includes several circuit components and modules for monitoring the use of the hair styler 10 and providing appropriate feedback to the user.

[0240] The computing device 1310 may include its own power supply 1324, or alternatively may be connected to another power supply, such as the power supply of the hair styler 10 itself. The computing device 1310 also has a processor 1312 powered by the power supply 1324. The processor 1312 includes a microprocessor 1312-1 and a memory 1314, or alternatively, the memory 1314 may be separate from the processor 1312 but connected to the processor 1312 via appropriate wiring / connections.

[0241] It also includes one or more user interfaces 1326 connected to the microprocessor 1312-1, for example, to provide one or more user controls and / or output indications, such as visual indications.

[0242] A drive circuit 1328 connected to the microprocessor 1312-1 is also provided, for example, to control the power supplied to the heater 1328-1 of the hair styling device 1. By way of example only, power is supplied to the heater 1328-1 to provide heat to the user's hair via the hair styling device 1. The power supplied to the heater 1328-1 is controlled by the microprocessor 1312-1 via the drive circuit 1328. For example, the power supplied to the heater 1328-1 may be controlled by the drive circuit 1328 (which may include one or more power semiconductor switching devices (tri-terminal bidirectional thyristor switches)), which can control the application of a voltage derived from the power supply 1324 according to instructions from the microprocessor 1312-1. The microprocessor 1312-1 is coupled to a memory 1314 (which is typically non-volatile memory) which may (by way of example only) store processor control code for implementing one or more control methods to control the heating of the heater 1328-1 based on the desired operating temperature of the heater 1328-1 and the proximity of the hair styler 10 to the user.

[0243] An orientation module 1316 is also provided, coupled to the microprocessor 1312-1, for example, to provide the ability to determine the orientation of the hair styler 10 relative to a specific reference point (e.g., the user's head / body). The orientation module 1316 includes orientation sensing circuitry 1316-1 to allow the microprocessor 1312-1 to communicate with and collect data from one or more orientation-based devices configured to collect data relating to the orientation of the hair styler 10 relative to a specific reference point (e.g., the user's head / body). By way of example only, the one or more orientation-based devices may include at least one of the following: a magnetometer 1316-2, a gyroscope 1316-3, and an accelerometer 1316-4.

[0244] In one example, the one or more orientation-sensing devices may include at least a magnetometer 1316-2. The magnetometer 1316-2 can be used to measure magnetic forces on the magnetometer. For example, the magnetometer can be used to measure the Earth's gravitational field to determine the compass orientation of the hair styler, i.e., the orientation of the hair styler 1 relative to the Earth's gravitational field.

[0245] In another example, the one or more orientation-sensing devices may include at least a gyroscope 1316-3. The gyroscope 1316-3 (i.e., gyroscope 1316-3) may be located within the hair styler 10 to detect movement of the hair styler 10. The gyroscope 1316-3 in the hair styler 10 can be used to determine whether the hair styler 10 is in use (i.e., whether it is moving or stationary). The gyroscope 1316-3 can also be used to measure the angular motion (e.g., rotation) of the hair styler 10 in space.

[0246] In another example, the one or more orientation-based sensing devices may include at least an accelerometer 1316-4. The accelerometer 1316-4 may be located within the hair styler 10 to measure the acceleration (rate of change of velocity) of the hair styler 10 in its own instantaneous stationary reference frame.

[0247] While the examples above describe individual implementations of the gyroscope, accelerometer, and magnetometer, it should be understood that any number of such devices and combinations thereof can be implemented in the hair styler 10 to provide orientation sensing capabilities.

[0248] The computing device 1310 also includes a proximity module 1318, which is connected to the microprocessor 1312-1, for example, to provide the ability to determine the proximity of the hair styler 10 to a specific reference point (e.g., the user's head / body).

[0249] The proximity module 1318 includes proximity sensing circuitry 1318-1 to allow microprocessor 1312-1 to communicate with and collect data from one or more proximity-based devices configured to collect data relating to the proximity of hair styler 10 relative to a specific reference point (e.g., the user's head / body). By way of example only, the one or more proximity-based devices may include at least one ultra-wideband (UWB) sensor 1318-2.

[0250] UWB sensor 1318-2 may include a transceiver that transmits UWB pulses and receives reflected UWB pulses. For example, the transceiver may be capable of transmitting one pulse to a user approximately every 10 to 100 milliseconds, spanning a wide frequency spectrum (e.g., at least 500 MHz wide). The transceiver may also be capable of receiving reflected pulses from the user every 10 to 100 milliseconds. It should be understood that while UWB sensor 1318-2 is described herein as having a transceiver for facilitating the transmission and reception of radio pulses, the UWB sensor may alternatively be configured with separate transmitters and receivers capable of transmitting and receiving pulses separately. The circuitry of UWB sensor 1318-2 will be referenced... Figure 14b To describe in more detail.

[0251] The computing device 1310 also includes a feedback module 1322, which is connected to the microprocessor 1312-1, for example, to provide feedback to the user of the hair styler 10. The feedback module 1322 includes a feedback circuit 1322-1 and at least one means for providing feedback to the user of the hair styler 10. For example, such as... Figure 14aAs shown, a haptic unit 1322-2 is provided, configured to provide haptic feedback to the user (e.g., vibrations, vibration sequences, vibration patterns, etc. via the hair styler 10). However, it should be understood that the haptic unit 1322-2 is only one possible example of a feedback unit that can be provided. In another example (not shown), an audio feedback unit may be provided, attached to or replacing the haptic unit, allowing audio feedback (e.g., sound) to be provided to the user of the hair styler 10. For example, the audio feedback unit may include one or more speakers capable of providing audio to the user of the hair styler 10 as a feedback indication. In another example (not shown), a visual feedback unit may be provided, attached to or replacing the haptic unit and / or the audio unit, allowing visual feedback (e.g., indications on a display, LEDs, etc.) to the user of the hair styler 10. For example, the visual feedback unit may include appropriate circuitry to allow signaling indications to the user via one or more UIs (such as displays, LEDs, etc.) of the hair styler 10.

[0252] While the examples above describe individual implementations of haptic, audio, and visual feedback, it should be understood that any number of such feedback types and combinations thereof can be implemented in the hair styler 10 to provide appropriate feedback to the user as the user operates the hair styler 10.

[0253] It should be understood that while the above description refers to the computing device 1310 within the hair styler 10, the computing device 1310 may alternatively be located outside the hair styler 10. For example, the computing device 1310 may be a smart device (e.g., a smartphone) connected to the hair styler 10 via Wi-Fi / Bluetooth.

[0254] Figure 14b A circuit for one or more UWB sensors 1318-2 incorporated in a hair styler 10 is shown. This circuit is conventional and included for completeness. As those skilled in the art will understand, other types of UWB circuitry can be used to transmit and receive UWB signals.

[0255] like Figure 14b As shown, the UWB sensor 1318-2 includes an oscillator 1318-3 and a pulse generator 1318-4 for generating ultra-wideband pulses. The ultra-wideband pulses are passed through a modulator (or pulse shaper) 1318-5 in preparation for transmission by the transmit (Tx) antenna 318-7. Figure 14b As shown, before being transmitted by the Tx antenna 1318-7, the modulated pulse can also pass through the power amplifier 1318-6 to increase the power (i.e., amplitude) of the transmitted UWB pulse.

[0256] UWB sensor 1318-2 also includes receiver (Rx) antenna 1318-8 for receiving reflected UWB signals. Once received by Rx antenna 1318-8, the reflected UWB signals pass through low-frequency band filter 1318-9, which removes unwanted high-frequency and low-frequency signals. The reflected UWB signals also pass through low-noise amplifier 1318-10 to amplify the very low-power signal without significantly degrading its signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). The reflected UWB signals (and / or information about these reflected UWB signals) are then processed by processor 1312 of computing device 310. For example, the reflected UWB signals (and / or information about these reflected UWB signals) can be processed by processor 1312 to determine the proximity of the user of hair styler 10 to hair styler 10, which will be described in more detail later.

[0257] Optionally, before being processed by the processor 1312 of the computing device 1310, the reflected UWB signal may also pass through a correlator receiver 1318-11 to correlate the reflected UWB signal with the UWB pulse transmitted by the Tx antenna 1318-7. For example, the reflected UWB signal may pass through a mixer 1318-12 to mix the UWB pulse with the reflected UWB signal, the output of the mixer 1318-12 is integrated by an integrator 1318-13, and then processed by the processor 1312 of the computing device 1310.

[0258] Orientation calculation

[0259] During use, as the user moves and / or rotates the hair styler 10, the orientation module 1316 determines the orientation of the hair styler 10 relative to a reference point (e.g., relative to the user's head / body, or alternatively, relative to the direction of the Earth's magnetic field).

[0260] To determine orientation, the microprocessor 1312-1, communicating with the orientation module 1316, can request and collect data from at least one of the magnetometer 1316-2, gyroscope 1316-3, and accelerometer 1316-4. For example, the microprocessor 1312-1, communicating with the orientation module 1316, can use the magnetometer 1316-2 to measure the magnetic force on the magnetometer. For example, the magnetometer 1316-2 can be used to measure the Earth's gravitational field to determine the compass orientation of the hair styler, i.e., the rotation of the hair styler 1 relative to magnetic north.

[0261] Additionally or alternatively, the microprocessor 1312-1 communicating with the orientation module 1316 may use a gyroscope 1316-3 to measure the rotational speed of the hair styler 10. For example, the gyroscope 1316-3 may be used to measure the rotational rate and / or angular momentum of the hair styler 10 as the user moves it to determine the tilt and / or lateral orientation of the hair styler 10.

[0262] Additionally or alternatively, the microprocessor 1312-1 communicating with the orientation module 1316 may use the accelerometer 1316-4 to measure the linear motion of the hair styler 10. For example, the accelerometer 1316-4 may be used to measure the rate of change of velocity of the hair styler 10 in the linear direction when the user moves the hair styler 10.

[0263] Based on some or all of the data measured by magnetometer 1316-2, or gyroscope 1316-3, or accelerometer 1316-4, microprocessor 1312-1 determines the rotation matrix R, which describes the rotation of hair styler 10 in Euclidean space in linear algebraic terms. The rotation matrix R is algebraically described in Equation 2 as follows:

[0264] R=

[0265]

[0266] Equation 2

[0267] in:

[0268] α = Roll angle

[0269] β = pitch angle

[0270] γ = yaw angle

[0271] Figure 15a The roll, pitch, and yaw angles of the hair styler 10 are shown. For example... Figure 15a As shown, the roll angle α corresponds to the area around the hair styler 10. Figure 15a The rotation of the Z-axis marked in the middle, the pitch angle β corresponds to the hair styler 10 around the center. Figure 15a The rotation of the Y-axis marked in the middle, the yaw angle γ corresponds to the hair styler 10 around... Figure 15b The rotation of the X-axis marked in the figure, where the X, Y, and Z axes used have their usual meaning in Euclidean geometry (i.e., the Cartesian coordinate system).

[0272] Once the rotation matrix R is determined, the microprocessor 1312-1, communicating with the orientation module 316, uses an accelerometer 1316-4 (and / or a magnetometer 1316-2, and / or a gyroscope 1316-3) to measure the linear motion of the hair styler 10 and determine the acceleration vector A of the hair styler 10. The acceleration vector A is algebraically described in Equation 3 as follows:

[0273]

[0274] Equation 3

[0275] in:

[0276] ax =Acceleration in the X direction

[0277] a y =Acceleration in the Y direction

[0278] a z =Acceleration in the Z direction

[0279] Once the rotation matrix R and acceleration vector A are determined, the microprocessor 1312-1 calculates the angular acceleration A of the hair styler 10 by calculating the dot product of the rotation matrix R and the acceleration vector A. n As shown below:

[0280]

[0281] Equation 4

[0282] Once the rotation matrix R and angular acceleration A are determined... n The microprocessor 1312-1 can determine the (new) orientation of the hair styler 10, which is A n The function is shown below:

[0283]

[0284] Equation 5

[0285] in:

[0286]

[0287] For example, the microprocessor 1312-1 can convert A n The initial orientation matrix of the hair styler 10 is compared with that stored in the memory of the hair styler 10 to determine the changes in its orientation. Advantageously, by using A n Determine the orientation of the hair styler 10, only A n The initial orientation matrix of the hair styler 10 must be stored in the memory 1314 of the hair styler 10, thereby reducing the required storage and improving memory utilization efficiency. In addition, the way the microprocessor 1312-1 determines the orientation of the hair styler 10 only requires comparing two easily computed matrices, thereby reducing the time required for the microprocessor 1312-1 to perform calculations.

[0288] Figure 15b A graph depicting a comparison between the actual orientation of the hair styler 10 and the predicted orientation made by the orientation module 1316 is shown. (See figure.) Figure 15b As shown, the new and efficient method for determining the orientation of the hair styler 10 produces accurate orientation determination. Advantageously, by determining the orientation of the hair styler 10 in the manner described above, gimbal locking is prevented.

[0289] After the orientation of the hair styler 10 is accurately determined, its position relative to the user's head can then be determined, and, where appropriate, feedback can be provided to the user during the use of the hair styler 10 based on its orientation and position relative to the user's head.

[0290] feedback

[0291] Figure 16a An example of the hair styler 10 in use is shown.

[0292] During use, the microprocessor 1312-1 performs the aforementioned orientation determination calculations to determine the orientation of the hair styler 10 relative to magnetic north. Simultaneously (or shortly thereafter), the microprocessor 1312-1 can also determine whether the hair styler 10 is close to the user's head, and more specifically, which side of the hair styler 10 is closer to the user's head 1640.

[0293] For example, such as Figure 16a As shown, by way of example only, the hair styler 10 may also be provided with at least two proximity sensors 1620a and 1620b; one on each side of the hair styler 10. These two proximity sensors 1620a and 1620b may be, for example, ultra-wideband (UWB) sensors, or any other suitable type of sensor capable of determining the proximity of the user to the hair styler 10, such as optical sensors, radar sensors, magnetic sensors, etc.

[0294] For illustrative purposes, all further discussion of at least two proximity sensors 1620a, 1620b will refer to at least two UWB sensors. It should be understood that, in the case that both proximity sensors 1620a, 1620b are UWB sensors, these UWB sensors can conform to the above references. Figure 14a and Figure 14b The UWB sensor described.

[0295] During use, at least two UWB sensors 1620a and 1620b emit UWB pulses of electromagnetic radiation. For example, UWB sensors 1620a and 1620b can emit pulses in a frequency band above 500 MHz and can pulse once every 10 to 100 milliseconds. These pulses then travel through the air and space until they reach an object or surface from which they are reflected. Upon impact with an object or surface (e.g., the side of a user's head, a wall, or another object near the UWB sensor), the pulses are reflected from the object or surface as reflected UWB radio signals. Some or all of these reflected UWB signals (depending on the reflection angle) are then received by the Rx antenna 1318-8 of the UWB sensor, which is then processed by the Rx antenna circuitry of the UWB sensor, as referenced above. Figure 14bAs stated above.

[0296] The time of arrival (ToA) of each reflected radio signal depends on the distance of the radio pulse from the object from which it is reflected. Therefore, the reflected radio pulse signal can be used to determine the relative distance between the hair styler 10 and nearby objects.

[0297] Furthermore, it should be understood that the power (e.g., amplitude) of such reflected radio signals will depend on various factors, including the surface area of ​​the object from which the radio pulse is reflected. Therefore, reflected radio signals can also be used to determine the size of objects near the hair styler 10.

[0298] Each reflected UWB radio signal received at the receiver consists of a linear combination of reflected radio pulses from M different objects (paths or directions) and an additive noise term. Therefore, the received UWB signal can be algebraically represented as:

[0299]

[0300] Equation 6

[0301] in:

[0302] s(n,k) is an estimate of the shape of the transmitted pulse received at the receiver, which is typically distorted due to several different factors, such as the reflection, refraction, and scattering coefficients of the object.

[0303] N is additive noise.

[0304] a ni It is the scaling factor of the signal reflected from the i-th object, and

[0305] T i It is the delay of the reflected pulse, which depends on the distance between the i-th object and the USB sensor.

[0306] Once generated, each reflected UWB radio signal can also be corrected as needed to remove “clutter” from the signal. Clutter is defined as the component of the reflected pulse signal (also simply called the “reflected signal”) caused by background objects, i.e., objects far from the UWB sensors 1620a, 1620b, such as a background wall behind the user. By applying this correction, the remaining features of each reflected UWB radio signal can be sharper, allowing the processor to more clearly identify the presence of objects in the foreground of the hair styler 10. As an example only, clutter in the signal can be removed using a loopback filter.

[0307] Once processed by the Rx antenna circuitry of the UWB sensor, the processed reflected UWB signal (or information about such processed reflected UWB signal) is transmitted to the processor 1312 of the computing device 1310 for further processing; for example, determining the proximity of the hair styler 10 (or one side thereof) to the user's head.

[0308] As an example, such as Figure 16a As shown, during use, at least two UWB sensors 1620a and 1620b of the hair styler 10 each emit UWB pulses that propagate through the air and space. Figure 16a As shown, pulses 1630a emitted from UWB sensor 1620a propagate through air and open space. During propagation, they may or may not interact with distant objects (such as walls). These pulses 1630a will then be reflected from the walls, and the reflected UWB signal will be received by the Rx antenna 1318-8 of UWB sensor 1620a at some future time x1. On the other hand, during the propagation of pulses 1630b emitted from UWB sensor 1620b, pulses 1630b interact with a user's head 1640 near UWB sensor 1620b. These pulses 1630b will then be reflected from the user's head 1640, and the reflected UWB signal will be received by the Rx antenna 1318-8 of UWB sensor 1620b at some future time x2.

[0309] Based on the power (amplitude) of the reflected UWB signal (which, as described above, may depend on the size of the surface area from which pulses 1630a and 1630b reflect) and the distance from the object to the sensor, the processor 1314 of the computing device 1310 can determine which side of the hair styler 10 containing the UWB sensor 1620b is closer to the object (such as the user's head). Furthermore, depending on the amplitude of the reflected UWB, the processor 1314 of the computing device 1310 can assume that the object is the side of the user's head.

[0310] Additionally or alternatively, based on the power (amplitude) of the reflected UWB signal (which, as described above, may depend on the size of the surface area from which pulses 1630a and 1630b reflect) and the distance from the object to the sensor, the processor 1314 of the computing device 1310 can use pulses 1630a and 1630b to generate an amplitude-distance distribution map that graphically depicts the distance and relative size of the object to the UWB sensors 1620a and 1620b of the hair styler 10.

[0311] Figure 16b Depicting in Figure 16a The image shows the signal amplitude-distance diagram of the reflected UWB signals received at UWB sensors 1620a and 1620b in the scene shown. Figure 16bAs shown in the figure above, the reflected signal 1650b received at UWB sensor 1620b has a large amplitude at a very small distance from UWB sensor 1620b, and this amplitude gradually decreases with increasing distance. This reflected signal 1650b received at UWB sensor 1620b indicates the presence of a large object (e.g., user's head 1640) near sensor 1620b. Conversely, the reflected signal 1650a received at UWB sensor 1620a (… Figure 16b (See figure below) It has a consistently small amplitude and a small bulge at a moderate distance from the UWB sensor 1620a. This reflected signal 1650a received at the UWB sensor 1620a indicates that there is no object (or at most only a very small object) in the vicinity of the sensor 1620a.

[0312] Based on these signal amplitude-distance maps (and / or their corresponding data), the processor 1312 of the computing device 1320 of the hair styler 10 is able to determine the side of the hair styler 10 closest to the user's head 1340. Furthermore, based on these signal amplitude-distance maps (and / or their corresponding data) and the determined orientation of the hair styler 10, the processor 1312 can also determine the movement of the hair styler 10 relative to the user's head 1340.

[0313] In one example, after determining that the right side of the hair styler 10 is close to the user's head 1340, the processor 1312 can continue to process the incoming reflected UWB radio signals to determine the movement of the hair styler 10 relative to the user's head 1340. For example, when the user rotates the hair styler 10 to curl their hair, the position of the UWB sensor 1620b relative to the user's head 1640 will change, thereby changing the reflected UWB radio signal detected by the sensor. The processor 1312 can process the signal from the UWB sensor 1620 to determine whether the user is rotating the hair styler 10 clockwise or counterclockwise. This information can also be determined from signals obtained from an accelerometer and / or a gyroscope.

[0314] Advantageously, by determining the orientation of the hair styler 10 and which side of the hair styler 10 is closer to the user's head 1640, the processor 1312 of the hair styler 10 can determine whether the user is correctly using the hair styler 10 to achieve the desired hair style. For example, if the user has already input the desired hair style via the user interface 1324 of the hair styler 10, the processor 1312 can compare the expected movement for achieving the selected hair style stored in the memory 1314 of the computing device 1310 with the determined movement of the hair styler 10. Based on this comparison, the processor 1312 can trigger the feedback module 1322 of the hair styler 10 to provide appropriate feedback to the user.

[0315] Additionally, pressure sensors may be located within the hair styler 10 to sense when pressure is applied to the hair styler, i.e., when the hair styler 10 is being held. For example, one or more pressure sensors may be positioned within the hair styler 10 near the UWB sensors 1620a, 1620b. Advantageously, by using such one or more pressure sensors, the processor 1312 is able to account for reflected UWB signals due to the presence of the user's hand, ensuring that the user's hand placement on the hair styler 10 is not incorrectly attributed to head position.

[0316] For example, if it is determined that a user is holding the hair styler 10 close to the area of ​​UWB sensors 1620a, 1620b, the processor 1312 may apply corrections to account for (compensate for) signal characteristics caused by hand position when processing the reflected UWB signal. As an example only, if the processor uses the reflected UWB signal to generate an amplitude-distance distribution map, the processor may ignore, attenuate, suppress, or filter out one or more features in the amplitude-distance distribution map that appear at a very short distance (e.g., a few millimeters) from the UWB sensors 1620a, 1620b.

[0317] Figure 16c and Figure 16d An exemplary movement of the hair styler 10 and the feedback it can provide are shown. Figure 16c In the process, after determining the orientation of the hair styler 10 and which side of the hair styler 10 is closer to the user's head 1640, the processor 1312 continues to process the incoming reflected UWB signals and / or signals from the accelerometer or gyroscope to determine, as described above, whether the user is rotating the hair styler 10 clockwise relative to the user's head 1640. Figure 16c In the example, the user is rotating the hair styler 10 clockwise, and the processor 1312 compares this movement / movement with a set of movements that the user expects or should perform to achieve their selected desired hair style. For example, the set of movements to be performed may be stored in the memory 1314 of the computing device 1310 of the hair styler 10 (or alternatively, they may be downloaded from the Internet in response to the user selecting a desired hair style via the user interface of the hair styler 10) to determine whether the movement is correct for the desired hair style.

[0318] After confirming that the movement is correct, processor 1312 may trigger (e.g., via a feedback command or other appropriate message) feedback module 1322 to provide appropriate feedback to the user (e.g., vibration, sound, visual indication, etc.), or alternatively, since the movement is correct, processor 1312 may not trigger any type of feedback (e.g., vibration, sound, visual indication, etc.). Figure 16c (As shown).

[0319] However, if the processor 1312 determines that the user is rotating the hair styler 10 counterclockwise relative to the user's head 1640 when it should be rotating clockwise, the processor 1312 can trigger the feedback module 1322 (e.g., via a feedback command or other appropriate message) to provide the user with appropriate feedback (e.g., vibration, sound, visual indication, etc.) so that they know they are rotating the device in the wrong direction and can change the direction of rotation accordingly.

[0320] In another example (such as) Figure 16d As shown), after determining that the user is rotating the hair styler 10 in the correct clockwise direction relative to the user's head 1640, the processor 1312 continues to monitor this rotation and outputs feedback to the user when the user has rotated the hair styler 10 relative to the user's head to the optimal rotation angle. For example, as Figure 16d As shown, the hair styler 10 vibrates ("buzzing") when it is rotated relative to the user's head to the optimal angle to achieve the desired degree or amount of curl in the hair strands.

[0321] It should be understood that the motion / movement detection and corresponding feedback described above are given as examples only, and other combinations of motion and feedback are also possible.

[0322] Now refer to Figure 17 The flowchart further describes the process of determining the movement of the hair styler 10 and providing appropriate feedback.

[0323] like Figure 17 As shown, in step S1702, the user of the hair styler 10 inputs their desired hair style in the user interface of the hair styler 10. For example, the user can select a specific type of hair style they wish to achieve from a list of pre-programmed hair styles stored in the memory of the hair styler 10. In this case, the memory of the hair styler 10 (or alternatively, a computing device communicating with the hair styler 10) can store a set of movements / motions that must be performed by the hair styler 10 to achieve a specific type of hair style. For example, it may be necessary to rotate the hair styler 10 clockwise relative to the user's head to achieve curls that are curled in a specific direction relative to the user's head.

[0324] Alternatively or additionally, the processor 1312 of the hair styler 10 may be configured to download from the Internet the set of movements / motions that must be performed by the hair styler 10 to achieve the specific type of hair style in response to a user selecting a specific type of hair style they wish to achieve via the user interface of the hair styler 10.

[0325] In step S1704, processor 1312 determines the orientation of hair styler 10. As previously described, microprocessor 1312-1, which communicates with orientation module 1316 of hair styler 10, can request and collect data from at least one of magnetometer 1316-2, gyroscope 1316-3, or accelerometer 1316-4 to determine the orientation of hair styler 10 relative to a predefined reference frame.

[0326] In step S1706, UWB sensors 1620a and 1620b transmit UWB pulses 1630a and 1630b. These pulses can be pulses with a bandwidth of at least 500MHz. These pulses can be repeatedly transmitted within a time period ΔT.

[0327] In step S1708, UWB sensors 1620a and 1620b detect reflected UWB radio signals generated by reflections of emitted UWB pulses 1630a and 1630b. The reflected UWB radio signals consist of a linear combination of reflected radio pulses reflected from different objects near the UWB sensors.

[0328] In step S1710, processor 1312 processes these detected reflected UWB radio signals to determine amplitude distance information corresponding to the reflected signals in the amplitude-distance signal diagram described above. The processor can also track distance information of selected objects in the reflected UWB signals and monitor how that distance changes over time.

[0329] For example, processor 1312 (in step S1711) can generate a signal map for each reflected UWB radio signal detected by UWB sensors 1620a and 1620b within a predetermined time period (e.g., using ToA information (T... i (also known as Time-of-Flight (ToF) information) and uses amplitude information (a ni The amplitude-distance plot is used to depict the variation of the detected reflected UWB radio signal over time. It should be understood that the processor does not actually need to visually plot the signal; instead, it stores the data in a two-dimensional data structure within the memory of the processor 1312.

[0330] In step S1712, processor 1312 analyzes UWB data (i.e., signal graph data, such as amplitude-distance graphs, distance-time graphs, etc.) in the memory to determine whether one side of the hair styler 10 is close to the user's head. Based on the determination that the user's head is near the UWB sensor 1630b, and in conjunction with the determined orientation of the hair styler 10 made in step S1704, processor 1312 can determine which side of the user's head the hair styler 10 is most likely to be on. Based on the determination that the user's head is near the UWB sensor 1630b, and in conjunction with the determined orientation of the hair styler 10, processor 1314 can determine that the hair styler 10 is most likely on the left side of the user's head. If the orientation of the styler 1 is... Figure 16a If the orientation shown is reversed, then stylist 1 is most likely on the right side of the user's head. It is most likely on this side because the user is most likely to always hold the stylist with the handle pointing forward. Specifically, Figure 16a The user is most likely looking inwards from the paper, and the handle of the hair styler is pointing inwards. It would be very difficult for the user to hold the styler 1 with the handle pointing outwards when styling their hair. Therefore, it is reasonable to assume that holding the styler in this orientation is unlikely in practice. Therefore, based on the orientation of the styler 1 and which UWB sensor 1620 detects the user's head, the processor 1312 can determine whether the styler 1 is on the left or right side of the user's head.

[0331] In step S1714, the processor 1312 of the hair styler 10 re-determines the orientation of the hair styler 10 to detect changes in its orientation, for example, to determine whether the hair styler 10 is being moved / used by a user. For example, as previously described, the microprocessor 1312-1, which communicates with the orientation module 1316 of the hair styler 10, can request and collect data from at least one of a magnetometer 1316-2, or a gyroscope 1316-3, or an accelerometer 1316-4 to determine the orientation of the hair styler 10 relative to a reference frame.

[0332] In step S1716, the processor 1312 determines, based on the determined orientation change of the hair styler 10, whether the orientation change (i.e., the user's movement of the hair styler 10) is the correct movement to achieve the desired hair style input by the user in step S1702. For example, the processor 1312 may compare this movement with a set of movements required to achieve the desired hair style input by the user, stored in memory 1312 or downloaded from the Internet. For example, it may be necessary to rotate the hair styler 10 clockwise relative to the user's head to achieve curls that are curled in a specific direction relative to the user's head.

[0333] In step S1718, processor 1312 triggers appropriate feedback based on whether the change in orientation (i.e., the user's movement of the hair styler 10) is the correct movement to achieve the desired hair style input by the user in step S1702. For example, processor 1312 may be configured to send a feedback command to feedback module 1322 to provide appropriate audio, visual, and / or tactile feedback. As an example only, after determining that the user is rotating the hair styler 10 in the wrong direction, processor 1312 may be configured to send a feedback command to feedback module 1322 to provide feedback to the user indicating that they are making a mistake.

[0334] After providing feedback, process 1700 may end, or alternatively, it may loop such that after providing feedback, processor 1312 returns to step S1714 to re-determine the orientation of hair styler 10.

[0335] Figure 18a Another example of the hair styler 10 in use is shown. In this example, the user places a strand of hair into the styler 1 and then moves the styler away from the user's head along the strand of hair in the direction shown.

[0336] Figure 18b and Figure 18c A signal amplitude-distance plot obtained from UWB sensor 1620b is depicted as the hair styler 10 moves along the hair strand. Specifically, Figure 18c The upper part of Figure 18d shows the UWB signals received by sensors 1620a and 1620b at time T1, when the stylist is close to the user's head and located at the root of the hair strand being styled. Figure 18c The figures below Figure 18d show the UWB signals received by sensors 1620a and 1620b at time T2, when the stylist is away from the user's head and located at the tip of the hair strand being styled.

[0337] like Figure 18b As shown in the figure above, the reflected signal 1630b received at UWB sensor 1620b at time T1 has a large amplitude at a very small distance from UWB sensor 1620b, and this amplitude gradually decreases with increasing distance. This reflected signal 1630b received at UWB sensor 1620b indicates the presence of a large object (e.g., user's head 1640) near sensor 1620b. Conversely, the reflected signal 350a received at UWB sensor 1620a... Figure 18c (See the image above) It has a consistently small amplitude and a small bulge at a moderate distance from the UWB sensor 1620a. This reflected signal 1650a received at the UWB sensor 1620a indicates that there is no object (or at most only a very small object) in the vicinity of the sensor 1620a.

[0338] Based on these amplitude-distance maps (and / or their corresponding data) and the determined orientation of the hair styler 10, the processor 1312 of the computing device 1320 of the hair styler 10 is able to determine that the right side of the hair styler 10 is close to the left side of the user's head 1640.

[0339] like Figure 18b As shown in the figure below, at time T2, the reflected signal 1650b received by the UWB sensor 1620b has a considerable amplitude (less than) at a moderate distance from the sensor 1620b. Figure 18a The amplitude (as shown in the image above) gradually decreases with increasing distance. This reflected signal 1650b received at UWB sensor 1620b indicates the presence of a large object (e.g., a user's head 1640) at a moderate distance from sensor 1620b. Conversely, the reflected signal 320a received at UWB sensor 1620a (… Figure 18c (See figure below) It has a consistently small amplitude and a small bulge at a moderate distance from the UWB sensor 1620a. This reflected signal 1650a received at the UWB sensor 1620a indicates that there is no object (or at most only a very small object) in the vicinity of the sensor 1620a.

[0340] Based on these amplitude-distance maps (and / or their corresponding data) and the determined orientation of the hair styler 10, the processor 1312 of the computing device 1320 of the hair styler 10 is able to determine that the right side of the hair styler 10 faces the left side of the user's head 1640, but is slightly farther away than at time T1.

[0341] By comparison Figure 18b and Figure 18c The amplitude-distance graph (or associated data / information) shown indicates that the processor 1312 of the hair styler 10 can determine that the hair styler 10 is in use and is moving in a direction away from the user's head. Furthermore, by measuring... Figure 18b By determining how far the peak in the amplitude-distance graph has moved over time, the processor 1312 can also determine the speed at which the user moves the hair styler 10 away from their head. For example, the speed at which the user moves the hair styler 10 away from their head can be calculated as follows:

[0342]

[0343] Equation 7

[0344] in:

[0345] It is the change in the peak position in the amplitude-distance graph.

[0346] It is the time period during which the reflected UWB signal is received (i.e., Figure 18b and Figure 18c In the given example, T2–T1).

[0347] Advantageously, by determining the speed at which the hair styler 10 is moved away from (or toward) the user's head, i.e., the speed at which the hair strand is pulled across the hair styler 10, if the speed is too fast or insufficient to achieve the desired hair style, the processor 1312 can trigger the feedback module 1322 of the hair styler 10 to provide appropriate feedback to the user.

[0348] The value can also roughly indicate the length of the user's hair. Specifically, during use, the user will repeatedly move the styler along the hair strand, and once the hair strand has passed through styler 1, the user will move styler 1 closer to the user's head again to style the next strand of hair. Therefore, by monitoring Based on the average value, processor 1312 can determine the approximate length of the user's hair. This information can be used, for example, to control the heater to apply heat to the hair. For instance, less heat can be applied to hair near the roots, while more heat can be applied to hair near the ends of the hair bundle. The length of the hair bundle can be used to define how the power will vary along that bundle.

[0349] Now refer to Figure 19 The flowchart further describes the process of determining the movement speed of the hair styler 10 and providing appropriate feedback.

[0350] Figure 19 Another process flowchart is shown, illustrating the steps involved in providing feedback to the user.

[0351] In step S1902, the user of the hair styler 10 inputs their desired hair style in the user interface of the hair styler 10. For example, the user can select a specific type of hair style they wish to achieve from a list of pre-programmed hair styles stored in the memory of the hair styler 10. In this case, the memory of the hair styler 10 (or alternatively, a computing device communicating with the hair styler 10) can store a set of movements / motions that must be performed by the hair styler 10 to achieve the specific type of hair style. For example, it may be necessary to rotate the hair styler 10 clockwise relative to the user's head to achieve curls that are curled in a specific direction relative to the user's head. The set of movements / motions that must be performed by the hair styler 10 to achieve the specific type of hair style may also include durations, such as the duration required for the hair strand to remain in the hair styler 10 to achieve the desired hair style, and / or the speed at which the hair strand should be pulled across the hair styler 10.

[0352] Alternatively or additionally, as described above, the processor 1312 of the hair styler 10 may be configured to download from the Internet a set of movements and / or durations, such as the duration required for the hair strand to remain in the hair styler 10 to achieve the desired hair style, and / or the speed at which the hair strand should be pulled across the hair styler 10, in response to a user selecting a specific type of hair style they wish to achieve via the user interface of the hair styler 10.

[0353] In step S1904, the processor 1312 determines the orientation of the hair styler 10 in the manner described above. In step S1906, the UWB sensors 1620a and 1620b emit UWB pulses 1630a and 1630b.

[0354] In step S1908, UWB sensors 1620a and 1620b detect at time T1 the first set of reflected UWB radio signals generated by the reflection of the transmitted UWB pulses 1630a and 1630b. In step S1910, UWB sensors 1620a and 1620b detect at time T2 the second set of reflected UWB radio signals generated by the reflection of the transmitted UWB pulses 1630a and 1630b. It should be understood that UWB sensors 1620a and 1620b may also detect a third, fourth, or other sets of reflected UWB radio signals at times T3, T4, etc.

[0355] In step S1912, processor 1312 processes the reflected UWB radio signals detected at T1, T2 (and, where appropriate, T3, T4, etc.). Processor 1314 can be configured to use these detected reflected UWB radio signals (and / or information about these detected reflected UWB radio signals) to generate (step S1913) signal graphs, such as amplitude-distance graphs, distance-time graphs, etc., for each detected reflected UWB radio signal detected by UWB sensors 1620a, 1620b at T1, T2 (and, where appropriate, T3, T4, etc.).

[0356] For example, processor 1312 can generate a signal map (such as an amplitude-distance map using ToA information (also known as time-of-flight (ToF) information) for each detected reflected UWB radio signal detected by UWB sensors 1620a, 1620b at T1, T2 (and T3, T4, etc. as appropriate) to depict the change of the detected reflected UWB radio signal over time.

[0357] In step S1914, the processor 1312 analyzes the signal graphs (such as amplitude-distance graphs, distance-time graphs, etc.) of the detected reflected UWB radio signals detected by the UWB sensors 1620a and 1620b at T1 to determine whether the user's head is on the right or left side of the hair styler 10. For example, as previously referenced Figure 16a and Figure 16b The analysis of the signal graphs related to the reflected UWB radio signals detected by UWB sensors 1620a and 1620b respectively enables processor 1314 to determine that an object (e.g., a user's head) is near UWB sensor 1630b but not near UWB sensor 1630a.

[0358] Based on the determination that the user's head is near the UWB sensor 1630b, and in conjunction with the determined orientation of the hair styler 10 made in step S1904, the processor 1312 determines which side of the user's head the hair styler 10 is on. For example, as previously referenced... Figure 16a As shown, based on the determination that an object (e.g., the user's head) is near the UWB sensor 1630b, and in conjunction with the determined orientation of the hair styler 10, the processor 1314 can determine that the right side of the hair styler 10 is most likely on the left side of the user's head.

[0359] In addition, based on the analysis of the signal graphs (such as amplitude-distance graphs, distance-time graphs, etc.) of the reflected UWB radio signals detected by the UWB sensor 1620b at T1, the processor 1312 also determines the distance between the user's head and the UWB sensor 1620b.

[0360] In step S1916, processor 1312 analyzes the signal graphs (such as amplitude-distance graphs, distance-time graphs, etc.) of the detected reflected UWB radio signals detected by UWB sensors 1620a and 1620b at T2 to determine whether the right side of the hair styler 10 is still on the left side of the user's head, in the same manner as above. Additionally, based on the analysis of the signal graphs (such as amplitude-distance graphs, distance-time graphs, etc.) of the detected reflected UWB radio signals detected by UWB sensor 1620b at T2, processor 1612 also determines the distance between the user's head and UWB sensor 1620b.

[0361] In step S1918, processor 1312 compares the determined distance between the user's head and UWB sensor 1620b at time T1 with the determined distance between the user's head and UWB sensor 1620b at time T2. For example, processor 1312 can determine the difference in distance between the user's head and UWB sensor 1620b between times T1 and T2, and divide this distance by the time difference T2-T1 to determine the speed measure of the hair styler 10 moving along the hair bundle as described above.

[0362] In step S1920, the processor 1312 determines whether the determined movement speed of the hair styler 10 is appropriate / correct to achieve the desired hair style input by the user in step S1902. For example, the processor 1312 may compare the determined movement speed with the speed required to achieve the desired hair style input by the user, stored in memory 1312 or downloaded from the Internet.

[0363] In step S1922, processor 1312 triggers appropriate feedback based on determining whether the movement speed is appropriate / correct for achieving the desired hair style. For example, processor 1312 may be configured to send a feedback command to feedback module 1322 to provide appropriate audio, visual, and / or tactile feedback. As an example only, after determining that the movement speed of the hair styler 10 is inappropriate for achieving the desired hair style, processor 1312 may be configured to send a feedback command to feedback module 1322 to provide feedback to the user, indicating that they are making an error, such as moving the styler too slowly or too quickly through the hair strands.

[0364] Alternatively, speed information can be used to control the heating of the heater. For example, if the speed is higher than required, the power supplied to the heater can be increased so that the necessary heat can be applied to the hair strand to allow it to be styled. Alternatively, if the speed is lower than required, the power supplied to the heater can be reduced so that the user does not overheat or damage their hair.

[0365] After providing feedback or changing the power supplied to the heater, process 1900 may end, or alternatively, it may cycle such that after providing feedback, processor 1312 returns to step S1906 to emit another set of UWB pulses from the UWB sensor.

[0366] Modifications and alternatives

[0367] Detailed embodiments have been described above. As those skilled in the art will understand, many modifications and substitutions can be made to the above embodiments while still benefiting from the invention implemented therein. Some of these substitutions and modifications will now be described, merely as an illustration.

[0368] Deep learning and neural networks

[0369] In some embodiments described above, processing the signal map to determine a gesture includes comparing the signal map with one or more gesture recognition models stored in the memory 212 of the computing device 210. For example, each gesture recognition model may include a signal map of the expected reflected UWB pulse signal for a particular gesture, and the computing device may compare the generated signal map with each signal map of the gesture recognition model to determine the gesture being performed by the user.

[0370] However, it should be understood that gesture recognition models can take any other suitable form that allows for the recognition of gestures using reflected signals detected by UWB sensors. For example, each gesture recognition model may include a pre-trained convolutional neural network (CNN) or some other form of deep learning neural network.

[0371] As an example only, each gesture recognition model may include a CNN comprising at least one convolutional layer, at least one pooling layer, and at least one fully connected layer. Additionally, the CNN may have flattening layers, max-pooling layers, SoftMax layers, and other non-linear layers, such as sigmoid layers, tanh layers, and / or ReLU layers, where appropriate.

[0372] Once trained using the training dataset, each CNN can be used to classify reflected signals detected by a UWB sensor into specific gestures. Furthermore, the CNN can be further trained and refined during use using "real-time" reflected signals detected by the UWB sensor to further improve its classification capabilities. Training such a CNN is relatively simple, involving providing many different signal maps obtained when performing different known gestures. Alternatively, a specific CNN can be generated for each gesture. In this case, the generated signal map is applied to each CNN, and each CNN outputs a value indicating how close that signal map is to the signal map used to train that CNN. The gesture associated with the CNN that gives the highest value is then identified as the gesture performed by the user, and appropriate control actions are taken.

[0373] For simplicity, the above description focuses on hair care products, particularly hair styling equipment. However, it should be understood that the above concepts can be broadly applied to any hair styling product and / or other beauty product / equipment in the beauty industry, including, for example: hair dryers, curling irons / sticks, straighteners, nail gel / nail polish hardeners (such as UV lamp systems for curing nail polish), skin removal devices, hair coloring equipment, curling irons, etc.

[0374] In the above embodiments, the beauty product device communicates with the intelligent processing device. This is not necessary; the beauty product device can be equipped with all the processing functions of the processing device.

[0375] In the example above, the feedback message is provided to the user through a user interface on the beauty product device or processing device. This is not required. Feedback messages can be provided through any suitable user interface on any nearby device. For example, they could be sent to an Amazon Echo speaker device to be played to the user as a voice message, or displayed to the user on a TV screen, mirror, etc.

[0376] The hair styler can communicate with the computing device via wired or wireless means. Examples of suitable wireless communications include Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, LoRa, ZigBee, the 802.15 standard, NFC, or optical means (including visible light and infrared).

[0377] In the examples given above, various specific temperature and power levels have been discussed. As those skilled in the art will understand, all of these specific values ​​are obviously not necessary for the present invention, and the specific values ​​used in a given product will depend on the processing to be performed, the voltage source used, etc.

[0378] In the above embodiments, numerous software modules have been described. As those skilled in the art will understand, these software modules may be provided in compiled or uncompiled form and may be provided to the hair styling device or corresponding processing device (mobile phone and / or similar device) as signals via a computer network or recorded on a recording medium. Furthermore, some or all of the functions performed by the software may be performed using one or more dedicated hardware circuits. However, software is preferred because it facilitates the updating of beauty product devices (and processing devices).

[0379] The embodiments described above utilize various processors located in UWB sensors, computing devices, or hair stylers. These processors can be programmable processors, such as microprocessors or CPUs, or they can be formed from dedicated hardware circuitry, such as ASIC devices.

[0380] Various other modifications will be obvious to those skilled in the art, and will not be described in further detail here.

Claims

1. A hair styling system, comprising: Hair styling equipment; At least one ultra-wideband (UWB) sensor, the at least one UWB sensor being configured to transmit UWB radio pulses and receive UWB radio signals reflected by objects near the at least one UWB sensor; as well as Processor, the processor being configured as follows: i) Processing signals obtained from the at least one UWB sensor to identify gestures made by the user near the at least one UWB sensor; and ii) In response to the recognized gesture, control at least one setting of the hair styling device or computing device.

2. The hair styling system according to claim 1, wherein, Processing signals obtained from the at least one UWB sensor to identify gestures made by the user near the at least one UWB sensor includes: The signal obtained from the at least one UWB sensor is compared with multiple gesture recognition models.

3. The hair styling system according to claim 2, wherein, The comparison of the signals obtained from the UWB sensor with multiple gesture recognition models includes: The pattern of the signal obtained from the at least one UWB sensor is compared with each of the plurality of gesture recognition models, wherein each gesture recognition model includes one or more pre-stored UWB radio signal patterns corresponding to the gesture.

4. The hair styling system according to claim 3, wherein, The one or more pre-stored UWB radio signal patterns corresponding to the gestures include at least one of the following: distance-amplitude signal maps and / or distance-time signal maps.

5. The hair styling system according to claim 1, wherein, Processing signals obtained from the at least one UWB sensor to identify gestures made by the user near the at least one UWB sensor includes: The signal obtained from the at least one UWB sensor is compared with multiple gesture recognition models, each of which is a convolutional neural network (CNN).

6. The hair styling system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, Each recognized gesture is associated with one of multiple control commands; and In response to recognizing a gesture made by the user near the at least one UWB sensor, the processor is configured to send a corresponding control command to the hair styler to control the at least one setting of the hair styler device.

7. The hair styling system according to claim 6, wherein, The at least one setting of the hair styling device controlled in response to the recognized gesture includes: Increase the temperature of the hair styler; or Increase the temperature of the hair styler in pre-configured steps; or Activate the hot jet function of the hair styler; or Activate the cold spray function of the hair styler.

8. The hair styling system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, In response to recognizing a gesture made by the user near the at least one UWB sensor, the processor is configured to control at least one setting of the computing device communicating with the at least one UWB sensor.

9. The hair styling system according to claim 8, wherein, The at least one setting of the computing device that communicates with the at least one UWB sensor in response to a recognized gesture control includes: Restart the music track that the computing device is currently playing; or Skip the music track being played on the computing device.

10. A hair styling system, comprising: Hair styling equipment; Multiple ultra-wideband (UWB) sensors, each UWB sensor configured to transmit UWB radio pulses and receive UWB radio signals reflected by objects near at least one UWB sensor; as well as A computing device that communicates with the plurality of UWB sensors, the computing device including a processor configured to: i) Process the signals obtained from each of the plurality of UWB sensors to identify dynamic gestures made by the user, wherein the dynamic gestures are movement gestures; ii) Processing signals obtained from each of the plurality of UWB sensors to determine the position of the user's head; and iii) In response to the recognized dynamic gesture and the determined position of the user's head, control at least one setting of the hair styling device or the computing device.

11. The hair styling system according to claim 10, wherein, Processing signals obtained from the plurality of UWB sensors to recognize the dynamic gestures made by the user includes: The signals obtained from the multiple UWB sensors are compared with multiple gesture recognition models.

12. The hair styling system according to claim 10 or 11, wherein, The comparison of signals obtained from the multiple UWB sensors with multiple gesture recognition models includes: The patterns of signals obtained from the plurality of UWB sensors are compared with each of the plurality of gesture recognition models, wherein each gesture recognition model includes one or more pre-stored UWB radio signal patterns corresponding to dynamic gestures.

13. The hair styling system according to claim 12, wherein, The one or more pre-stored UWB radio signal patterns corresponding to the dynamic gestures include distance-time signal maps.

14. The hair styling system according to claim 10, wherein, Processing signals obtained from the plurality of UWB sensors to recognize user gestures includes: The signals obtained from the plurality of UWB sensors are compared with a plurality of gesture recognition models, each of which is a convolutional neural network (CNN).

15. The hair styling system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, Processing signals obtained from each of the plurality of UWB sensors to determine the position of the user's head includes: Identify a static portion of the signal from the signal obtained from each UWB sensor, wherein the static portion of the signal is the portion of the signal that remains unchanged over time.

16. The hair styling system according to claim 15, wherein, In response to the recognized dynamic gesture and the determined position of the user's head, controlling at least one setting of the hair styling device includes: Determine whether the dynamic gesture originates from the left or right side of the user's head; and Each recognized dynamic gesture and its starting position relative to the left or right side of the user's head are associated with one of a plurality of control commands; and In response to recognizing a gesture made by a user and its starting position relative to the left or right side of the user's head, the processor is configured to send a corresponding control command to the hair styling device to control at least one setting of the hair styling device.

17. The hair styling system according to claim 15, wherein, In response to the recognized dynamic gesture and the determined position of the user's head, controlling at least one setting of the computing device includes: Determine whether the dynamic gesture originates from the left or right side of the user's head; and In response to recognizing a gesture made by a user and its starting position relative to the left or right side of the user's head, the processor is configured to control at least one setting of the computing device.

18. A hair styling system, comprising: Hair styling equipment; At least one ultra-wideband (UWB) sensor, the at least one UWB sensor being configured to transmit UWB radio pulses and receive UWB radio signals from at least one radio frequency identification (RFID) tag on the hair styling device; At least one user interface for inputting a desired hair style; as well as A computing device, which communicates with the at least one UWB sensor, includes a processor configured to: i) Processing signals obtained from the at least one UWB sensor to identify movement of the hair styling device in the vicinity of the at least one UWB sensor; and ii) Provide feedback to the user in response to the identified movement.

19. The hair styling system according to claim 18, wherein, Processing signals obtained from the at least one UWB sensor to identify movement of the hair styling device in the vicinity of the at least one UWB sensor includes: The signal obtained from the at least one UWB sensor is compared with multiple gesture recognition models.

20. The hair styling system according to claim 19, wherein, The comparison of the signals obtained from the UWB sensor with multiple gesture recognition models includes: The pattern of the signal obtained from the at least one UWB sensor is compared with each of the plurality of gesture recognition models, wherein each gesture recognition model includes one or more pre-stored UWB radio signal patterns corresponding to the movement of the hair styling device.

21. The hair styling system according to claim 20, wherein, The one or more pre-stored UWB radio signal patterns corresponding to the movement of the hair styling device include distance-time signal maps.

22. The hair styling system according to claim 18, wherein, Processing signals obtained from the at least one UWB sensor to identify movement of the hair styler device in the vicinity of the at least one UWB sensor includes: The signal obtained from the at least one UWB sensor is compared with multiple gesture recognition models, each of which is a convolutional neural network (CNN).

23. The hair styling system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, Responding to identified movement by providing feedback to the user includes: The identified movement of the hair styling device is compared with the set of movements of the hair styling device required to achieve the desired hair styling input at the at least one user interface. Based on this comparison, it is determined whether the identified movement of the hair styling device corresponds to at least one movement of the hair styling device required to achieve the desired hair styling; and In response to this determination, the processor is configured to send a feedback command to the hair styler to provide feedback to the user in response to the identified movement.

24. The hair styling system according to any one of claims 18 to 23, wherein, The detected movement of the hair styling device includes at least one of the following: The hair styling device rotates and moves; The hair styling device moves in a single direction in a linear motion. The hair styling device moves up and down when its arm is open.

25. The hair styling system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The feedback includes at least one of the following: Visual feedback provided via the display of the computing device; Visual feedback provided via the display of the hair styling device; Audio feedback provided via the computing device; Audio feedback provided by the hair styling device; or Tactile feedback provided by the hair styler.

26. A hair drying and / or styling apparatus, comprising: A first ultra-wideband UWB sensor, located on the hair drying and / or styling equipment, is used to transmit UWB radio pulses and receive UWB radio signals reflected by objects near the first UWB sensor. as well as A processor that communicates with the first UWB sensor and is configured to: i) Processing the signal obtained from the first UWB sensor to detect when the hair drying and / or styling device is near the user's head; and ii) In response to detecting that the hair drying and / or styling device is near the user's head, a control action is performed.

27. The hair drying and / or styling apparatus according to claim 26, wherein, The control actions include providing feedback to the user.

28. The hair drying and / or styling apparatus according to claim 27, wherein, The feedback provided to the user includes at least one of the following: audio feedback, visual feedback, and / or tactile feedback.

29. The hair drying and / or styling apparatus according to any one of claims 26 to 28, wherein, The control action includes controlling the power supplied to at least one heater of the hair drying and / or styling equipment.

30. The hair drying and / or styling apparatus according to any one of claims 26 to 29, wherein, The hair drying and / or styling equipment also includes: A second UWB sensor is located on either side of the hair drying and / or styling device; and The processor communicates with the first UWB sensor and the second UWB sensor, and is configured to: The signals obtained from the first UWB sensor and the second UWB sensor are processed to detect which side of the user's head is located on the hair drying and / or styling device.

31. The hair styling device according to claim 30, wherein, The processor is configured as follows: The signals obtained by the first UWB sensor and the second UWB sensor are compared to determine which signal has the largest amplitude peak; and Based on the signal with the maximum amplitude peak, determine which side of the user's head is located on the hair drying and / or styling device.

32. The hair styling device according to claim 31, wherein, Determine the side of the user's head that corresponds to the side of the hair styling device where the UWB sensor receiving the signal with the maximum amplitude peak is located.

33. The hair styling device according to claim 31 or 32, wherein, The comparison of the signals obtained by the first UWB sensor and the second UWB sensor includes: Generate a distance-amplitude map for each signal acquired by the first UWB sensor and the second UWB sensor; and Analyze each distance-amplitude plot to identify which distance-amplitude plot contains the maximum amplitude peak.

34. The hair styling device according to any one of claims 26 to 33, wherein, The hair styling device also includes: A pressure sensor, located near the first UWB sensor and / or the second UWB sensor; and The processor is further configured as follows: Based on data obtained from the pressure sensor, it is determined whether the user's hand is near the first UWB sensor and / or the second UWB sensor; and In response to determining that a user's hand is near the first UWB sensor and / or the second UWB sensor, a correction is applied to the signals obtained from the first UWB sensor and / or the second UWB sensor to take into account the UWB radio signals reflected from the user's hand.

35. The hair drying and / or styling apparatus according to any one of claims 26 to 34, wherein, The processor is also configured to: Determine the orientation of the hair drying and / or styling equipment relative to magnetic north.

36. The hair drying and / or styling apparatus according to claim 35, wherein, The processor communicates with an orientation sensing circuit configured to sense the orientation of the hair drying and / or styling device, and wherein the processor is configured to: The data received from the orientation sensing circuit is processed to determine the orientation of the hair drying and / or styling device relative to magnetic north.

37. The hair drying and / or styling apparatus according to claim 36, wherein, The orientation sensing circuit includes at least one of the following: an accelerometer, a gyroscope, and / or a magnetometer.

38. The hair drying and / or styling apparatus according to any one of claims 35 to 37, wherein, The processor is configured as follows: In response to determining the orientation of the hair drying and / or styling device and detecting that the hair drying and / or styling device is close to the user's head, a control action is performed.

39. The hair styling device according to any one of claims 35 to 38, wherein, The computing device also includes: A user interface for users to select their desired hair style, and The processor is further configured as follows: Determine the movement of the hair styling device; The determined moves are compared with the set of moves required to achieve the desired hair style to determine whether the moves are correct for achieving the desired hair style; and Control actions are performed based on the determination of whether the movement correctly achieves the desired hair style.

40. The hair styling device according to claim 39, wherein, To determine the movement of the hair styling device, the processor is configured to: The orientation of the hair styling device needs to be redefined; Compare the orientation of the hair styling device with the redefined orientation; as well as Based on this comparison, the movement of the hair styling device is determined.

41. The hair drying and / or styling apparatus according to any one of claims 38 to 40, wherein, The control actions include providing feedback to the user.

42. The hair drying and / or styling apparatus according to claim 41, wherein, The feedback provided to the user includes at least one of the following: audio feedback, visual feedback, and / or tactile feedback.

43. The hair drying and / or styling apparatus according to any one of claims 38 to 40, wherein, The control action includes controlling the power supplied to at least one heater of the hair drying and / or styling equipment.

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