Automated nail polish mixer

Abstract

It is applied in the field of cosmetics, it is used in beauty centres, hair salons, in one's own home, wherever deemed appropriate. The invention relates to an innovative automated nail polish mixer to create customised nail polishes, or, thanks to a spectrophotometer, to make them identical to the one the person has at that moment, with the possibility of making even single-dose polishes (for one application at a time). The system allows to precisely mix coloured pigments with a transparent or opaque base, creating customised polishes based on the user preferences. The machine is integrated with advanced software provided with artificial intelligence and a colour scanning system that can detect and faithfully reproduce existing colours or modify them. The system also provides the possibility of integrating an automatic polish applicator, making the entire creation and application process fully automated. The machine is also provided with an automated cleaning system to ensure maximum hygiene between production cycles.

Description

[0001] The automated nail polish mixer is composed of a set of integrated modules that allow the precise mixing of coloured pigments with a transparent base, in order to obtain a tailor-made final cosmetic product that can be customised based on the user's needs, another important innovation is the possibility of also creating nail polishes in a single-dose (for one application at a time) so that the application is always perfect, because, in standard nail polish bottles, after sometime from their opening, the nail polish often loses its initial effectiveness, starts to dry out and no longer be fluid, a complaint encountered by several beauticians complaining that, once the bottle of nail polish is opened, it then loses its initial consistency forcing them to throw bottles away because they cannot be used.

[0002] The main structure of the device is divided into six main sections: The machine is provided with independent containers TABLE 1 Figure 1, intended to contain primary pigments and black and white pigments.

[0003] The containers are made of corrosion-resistant and chemical-resistant material to ensure safe storage of pigments without degradation.

[0004] Each container is connected to a dispensing system that controls the precise release of the pigment required for mixing.

[0005] Each container has a content level detection system, which can signal the central control system when one of the pigments is running out.

[0006] In addition, the containers are provided with an airtight closure to prevent contamination with the external environment and preserve the integrity of the pigment.

[0007] In addition to the pigment containers, the machine includes a separate container intended to contain the transparent base for the polish TABLE 1 Figure 2.

[0008] This container is designed to contain a liquid base of a chemical composition suitable for cosmetic use, ensuring the appropriate viscosity and quality for nail polish production.

[0009] The container is connected to a dispenser that controls the exact quantity of base to be mixed with the pigments, maintaining the ratio required for optimal nail polish consistency.

[0010] It is also provided with an inner mixing system to prevent sedimentation and ensure that the base remains homogeneous during the process.

[0011] The machine dosing system is an essential element to ensure mixing accuracy.

[0012] It uses a set of peristaltic pumps or high-precision solenoid valves TABLE 1 Figure 3 that dose minimum and controlled quantities of pigment and base.

[0013] Dosing is regulated by a centralised control algorithm, which receives inputs from the user interface regarding the desired colour and calculates the exact quantity of each pigment required to obtain the final result.

[0014] The pumps are made of materials compatible with the chemical compounds used, avoiding unwanted reactions and ensuring a long operational life.

[0015] The dosing system allows for millilitre precision, making it possible to accurately reproduce the colours selected by the user.

[0016] Once the pigments and base have been dosed, they are transferred to a sealed mixing chamber TABLE 1 Figure 4, where the combination of components takes place.

[0017] The mixing chamber is provided with an inner stirrer, which can be of the mechanical (with rotating paddles) or magnetic type (with a magnetic vortex stirrer) to ensure homogeneous and complete mixing.

[0018] The chamber is designed to minimise product waste and facilitate automatic cleaning between production cycles.

[0019] This ensures that each new polish mixture is free of contamination from previously mixed colours.

[0020] Once mixing is complete, the final product is transferred through a dispensing nozzle TABLE 1 Figure 5.

[0021] This nozzle is designed to fill polish containers of different sizes (from single-dose to standard bottles or as required), and is provided with a mechanism that allows precise and waste-free dispensing.

[0022] The nozzle is made of non-stick material to prevent the product from sticking or coagulating, thus ensuring continuous and clean dispensing.

[0023] After each dispensing, the system performs a quick cleaning to prevent clogging and ensure minimal maintenance.

[0024] To ensure operational efficiency and the absence of contamination between mixing, the machine is provided with an automated cleaning system TABLE 1 Figure 6.

[0025] After each production, the system starts a cleaning cycle that uses a solvent suitable to clean the mixing chamber, dosing pumps and dispensing nozzle.

[0026] The solvent is sprayed into all areas that have come into contact with the polish, followed by a compressed-air drying cycle to prepare the machine for a new production cycle.

[0027] The entire machine is enclosed in an outer structure made of durable and easy-to-clean materials.

[0028] The structure is provided with transparent panels to allow users to see the mixing process without accessing the inner parts, thus ensuring safety during the operation TABLE 2 Figure 1.

[0029] All moving components or potentially dangerous parts are protected by safety covers.

[0030] A lockout system is also provided in the machine in case of malfunctions, preventing misuse and ensuring that the system stops safely in case of errors or jams.

[0031] The machine is provided with an advanced control system based on artificial intelligence (Al), which allows the entire process of pigment mixing and product customisation to be optimised.

[0032] Artificial intelligence not only improves the user experience, but also the accuracy and efficiency of the machine, making it capable of learning from user interactions and continuously optimising results.

[0033] The software offers an intuitive graphical interface, accessible by a touch screen or mobile application.

[0034] The interface TABLE 2 Figure 2 allows users to select the desired colour through different options: it is possible to detect, through a connected spectrophotometer, the colour the customer already has if they want to recreate it identically, or users can select their preferred colour from a chromatic palette displayed on the screen, which covers the full spectrum of available colours.

[0035] The interface also shows a preview of the selected colour.

[0036] The user has the option of entering a specific colour code, in order to obtain an exact reproduction of a specific colour.

[0037] The interface allows users to further customise the selected colour by regulating parameters such as brightness (adding white or black to lighten or darken the colour).

[0038] The user interface is enriched with artificial intelligence functionalities that allow a smoother and more customised interaction.

[0039] The main Al-integrated functionalities include: Customised chromatic suggestions based on the user's past choices, Al can suggest colours or chromatic combinations similar to those previously selected or new colours based on current trends or personal preferences.

[0040] For example, if a user has a preference for pastel hues, Al can suggest variants of these hues.

[0041] The interface can be enriched with an Al-based voice recognition system, allowing users to interact with the machine using voice commands to select colours or request suggestions.

[0042] Al integration improves the mixing process through the use of machine learning algorithms.

[0043] This allows the machine to adapt and to continuously improve its ability to create accurate colours.

[0044] The main features are: Learning colour preferences: thanks to the Al algorithm which keeps track of the users' chromatic choices over time and uses this data to refine the accuracy of future mixtures.

[0045] If the user often requires certain types of colours (e.g. warm or cool hues), the algorithm can automatically fine-tune the pigment dosage to better meet their needs.

[0046] Mixing optimisation thanks to Al which is able to learn from mistakes or small imperfections in previous mixes and correct them autonomously.

[0047] For example, if a colour created does not perfectly match the colour requested by the user, the algorithm learns from the process and regulates the pigment proportions in future mixtures.

[0048] Thanks to machine learning models, Al can more accurately predict the final effect of pigment mixing, taking into account variables such as the viscosity of the base or the interaction between pigments, thus improving chromatic matching.

[0049] The colour sensor, enriched with Al functionalities, can perform more advanced analysis and improve chromatic accuracy.

[0050] The sensor, with the help of artificial intelligence, can analyse the mixed colour in real time and compare it with the one requested by the user, identifying even the smallest colour discrepancies.

[0051] Al analyses the sensor data to automatically suggest corrections in mixing without user intervention.

[0052] If the resulting colour does not perfectly match the selected one, Al intervenes by regulating the pigment dosage in real time and correcting the mixture before the final dispensing step.

[0053] The Al system optimises the control of pigment and base dosage, minimising human or technical errors and ensuring maximum precision in the creation of the polish.

[0054] Based on past information, Al can predict with great accuracy the quantities of pigments needed to produce the desired colour, reducing the need for manual corrections.

[0055] Artificial intelligence can also predict how much base is needed to achieve the perfect consistency based on the type of polish required.

[0056] Artificial intelligence plays a crucial role in continuously monitoring the machine, identifying and automatically resolving any problems.

[0057] Al constantly monitors the state of the machine components, such as dosing pumps, containers and nozzles, predicting any faults or maintenance needs.

[0058] This system prevents operational blockages and ensures optimal maintenance of the device.

[0059] Based on the data collected, artificial intelligence can plan preventive machine maintenance, suggesting when to clean or replace components, minimising downtime.

[0060] With the integration of AI, the colour storage system is improved.

[0061] AI can create customised user profiles, storing not only the saved colours, but also the types of mixtures and usual chromatic preferences of each user.

[0062] This allows the system to suggest customised colours based on personal trends or suggestions based on predictive analysis.

[0063] Artificial intelligence can also analyse global data (such as fashion or seasonal trends) to suggest new colour combinations to users, enhancing the customisation experience.

[0064] The Al system is connected to a centralised cloud that allows the machine to continuously update its algorithms and improve performance.

[0065] Al algorithms can be automatically updated and improved via the cloud.

[0066] This allows the machine to stay on the cutting edge, constantly improving its performance.

[0067] The software also controls the machine cleaning system, which is automatically activated after each production cycle.

[0068] The cleaning process occurs in a fully automatic and programmable way, ensuring that the machine is ready for the next mixing without risk of contamination by pigment residues.

[0069] The software manages the cleaning cycle in three steps: In the first step, the solvent is released into the mixing chamber and into the nozzles to remove polish residues.

[0070] In the second step, the mixing chamber and pumps are agitated to ensure the complete removal of product residues.

[0071] In the third step, a jet of compressed air dries all the parts of the machine involved in the mixing process.

[0072] The automated mixing process within the automated nail polish mixer for the creation of customised nail polishes is designed to ensure the highest precision in nail polish production, through a fully automated system integrated with control and artificial intelligence algorithms.

[0073] The process is divided into several steps that follow one another in a coordinated manner, from colour selection to mixing and dispensing of the finished product.

[0074] The automated mixing process begins with the user interaction through the control interface, which allows the user to select the desired colour or fully customise the chromatic combination.

[0075] The main input modes include: Chromatic spectrum selection thanks to which the user can choose a colour from a range of visual options presented on a touch screen or via an app.

[0076] The user can manually enter a colour code or customise hues through brightness, saturation and contrast adjustments.

[0077] The artificial intelligence algorithm suggests customised colours or combinations based on past preferences or chromatic trends.

[0078] Once the user has selected the desired colour, the artificial intelligence system automatically calculates the proportions of the required primary pigments (red, blue and yellow).

[0079] This calculation occurs via the mixing algorithm, which takes into account the following parameters: The algorithm calculates the precise mix of primary pigments to obtain the selected chromatic hue.

[0080] The machine has additional containers for black and white, these are dosed to regulate the colour brightness or saturation, fulfilling the user's specifications.

[0081] The algorithm regulates the quantity of transparent base (or base with a special effect, such as gel or opaque) in relation to the final volume of the nail polish required, ensuring an optimal consistency.

[0082] Once the exact proportions of pigment and base have been calculated, the dosing system goes into operation.

[0083] The dosing process is managed automatically and regulated with extreme precision: Each pigment is dosed through peristaltic pumps or electronically controlled valves, which release the exact quantity of pigment into the system.

[0084] The accuracy of the dosage is managed by the algorithm, which can correct any variations during release.

[0085] Simultaneously, the dispenser dispenses the appropriate quantity of transparent base.

[0086] Here, too, the process is fully automated, with precise adjustments ensuring the ideal fluidity and consistency of the polish.

[0087] Once the pigments and base are dosed, they are automatically transferred to the mixing chamber via a designated piping system.

[0088] The transfer takes place without product loss and in a sealed environment to avoid contamination.

[0089] Mixing is a critical process that determines the quality and homogeneity of the final polish.

[0090] In the mixing chamber, pigments and base are combined through an automated agitation system.

[0091] The mixing chamber is provided with rotating paddles or a magnetic stirrer, which mix the components to ensure that the pigments are evenly distributed in the base.

[0092] The speed and duration of mixing are automatically managed by the software, based on the desired viscosity of the polish.

[0093] The Al continuously monitors the mixing process and can automatically regulate the stirring time to ensure that the mixture is completely homogenous.

[0094] Any changes in the component behaviour, such as pigment sedimentation, are detected and corrected in real time.

[0095] An optical sensor, integrated with the Al system, can check that the colour of the mixture matches the user's selection.

[0096] If the colour is not perfectly aligned, Al suggests corrections, such as the addition of small quantities of pigment, and recalculates the proportions until an exact match is obtained.

[0097] Once mixing is complete, the polish is transferred to the dispensing nozzle for filling the final container.

[0098] The dispensing process is designed to be fast, precise and waste-free. The user can choose between different types of containers, such as standard nail polish bottles, single-dose bottles or other containers.

[0099] The nozzle is calibrated to dispense the polish in the required quantity without spillage or residues.

[0100] At the end of the dispensing, the nozzle is automatically cleaned with a solvent or compressed air cycle, preventing clogging and ensuring availability for the next operation.

[0101] After each production cycle, the automated nail polish mixer automatically starts a cleaning process of the parts that have contacted the pigments and base.

[0102] A designated piping system releases solvent through the mixing chamber, dosing pumps and nozzle, removing any polish or pigment residues.

[0103] The mixing chamber is agitated during the rinse cycle to ensure that all pigment traces are removed.

[0104] Once cleaning is complete, the system blows compressed air through all involved parts to dry the machine, preparing it for the next production cycle.

[0105] Throughout the process, artificial intelligence plays a key role in monitoring and optimising the system.

[0106] AI keeps track of all production parameters, such as dosing speed, mixing time, viscosity and chromatic accuracy, and makes real-time corrections to ensure the highest quality of the finished product.

[0107] The system learns from previous cycles to improve precision and efficiency in the subsequent ones, making the machine more and more accurate over time.

[0108] It is applied in the field of cosmetics, it is used in beauty centres, hair salons, in one's own home, wherever deemed appropriate.

[0109] The invention relates to an innovative automated nail polish mixer to create customised nail polishes, or, thanks to a spectrophotometer, to make them identical to the one the person has at that moment, with the possibility of making even single-dose polishes (for one application at a time).

[0110] The system allows to precisely mix coloured pigments with a transparent or opaque base, creating customised polishes based on the user preferences.

[0111] The machine is integrated with advanced software provided with artificial intelligence and a colour scanning system that can detect and faithfully reproduce existing colours or modify them.

[0112] The system also provides the possibility of integrating an automatic polish applicator, making the entire creation and application process fully automated.

[0113] The machine is also provided with an automated cleaning system to ensure maximum hygiene between production cycles.

Claims

1. Automated nail polish mixer, characterized by a system of multiple containers intended to hold primary coloured pigments, regulating pigments, and a transparent or opaque base; an automated dosing system comprising peristaltic pumps or high-precision solenoid valves, controlled by a central unit for the proportional release of the pigments and of the base; a sealed mixing chamber with a mechanical or magnetic agitation mechanism for combining the components; a dispensing nozzle configured to distribute the mixed nail polish into single-dose or other capacity containers; an automated cleaning module that uses solvent and compressed air to ensure hygiene between a mixing and the successive; and a control system based on artificial intelligence for calculating the mixing proportions based on manual inputs or predictive suggestions.

2. Automated nail polish mixer according to claim 1, wherein the dosing system employs a centralized control algorithm that automatically regulates the mixing proportions of the pigments based on user input and measured parameters, such as viscosity of the base and chromatic characteristics of the pigments.

3. Automated nail polish mixer according to claim 1, wherein the container system includes capacitive level sensors for detecting the residual quantity of pigments and base.

4. Automated nail polish mixer according to claim 1, wherein the dispensing nozzle is made of a non-stick material and is configured to prevent residues and ensure a continuous flow of nail polish during dispensing.

5. Automated nail polish mixer according to claim 1, wherein the automated cleaning system executes a standardized cycle after each production, using solvent to remove residues and compressed air to dry the parts involved.

6. Automated nail polish mixer according to claim 1, wherein the control system based on artificial intelligence tracks the colour choices made by the user, stores the chromatic preferences, and adjusts the mixing parameters based on the data collected.

7. Automated nail polish mixer according to claim 1, wherein the colour detection module uses a spectrophotometer to analyse hue of a sample and determine pigment proportions necessary to reproduce it.

8. Automated nail polish mixer according to claim 1, wherein the user interface comprises a touchscreen display or a mobile app configured to allow selection and customization of functionalities.

9. Automated nail polish mixer according to claim 1, wherein the system is configured to be used in different environments, such as beauty centres, hair salons, and homes.

10. Automated nail polish mixer according to claim 1, wherein the control system based on artificial intelligence is configured to store personalized mixing recipes and allow their recall for subsequent productions.

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