System for treating human keratinous material

Abstract

System for treating human keratinous material, notably the skin and / or the hair, comprising a handpiece (2) comprising: - a treatment head (5) to be placed in contact with the keratinous material that is to be treated, defining at least one treatment zone, - at least one circuit (6) for the circulation of a fluid, used in the treatment, - at least one ultrasound transducer (13) for emitting acoustic waves at least into the fluid present in the treatment zone, the system comprising: at least one detector (20) of the position and / or orientation of the handpiece relative to the keratinous material that is to be treated and / or relative to a predefined reference axis, and at least one control unit (19) with which the detector or detectors communicate, this being designed to act on the operation of the handpiece on the basis of at least one item of information originating from the detector or detectors.

Description

[0001] Description

[0002] Title: System for treating human keratinous material

[0003] Technical field

[0004] The present invention relates to systems for treating human keratinous material, notably those employing ultrasound.

[0005] Prior art

[0006] Patent application EP 3 294 469 describes a device for cleaning a surface, including a chamber fed with a liquid and communicating with an outlet pipe emerging onto the surface to be cleaned, and an ultrasonic transducer transmitting acoustic energy to the liquid contained in the chamber and the outlet pipe.

[0007] Patent application ES 2 708 149 discloses a device for cleaning a surface comprising a sonotrode that generates ultrasound in close proximity to a cleaning solution present on the surface, the cavitation enabling dirtiness to be removed from the surface.

[0008] Patent US8486199 describes a device for treating a surface of a semiconductor wafer comprising a resonator enabling ultrasound energy to be supplied to a treatment fluid containing bubbles of gas.

[0009] Document EP 1 645 342 describes a method for cleaning equipment which consists in subjecting a bubble-containing liquid to an acoustic field.

[0010] Patent KR101152920 describes a device for cleansing the skin comprising a vacuum pump and intended to be used in close proximity to a microbubble-containing liquid on the skin.

[0011] Patent applications US 2017 / 0080257, KR 2020 / 0102956, US 2009 / 318853, JP 2016 / 214424 and WO 2020 / 029429 disclose cosmetic processes for treating the skin, notably for cleansing it, using an ultrasonic device which generates microbubbles in a cosmetic composition applied to the skin to be cleansed.

[0012] Similar devices are disclosed in patent applications US 2011 / 21328, US 2010 / 010420 and EP 3 634 643, CN206995178 and EP 2 470 310.

[0013] Patent FR 3 116 451 describes a device for cleaning human keratin material comprising a fluid circulation circuit, a transducer and a treatment head enclosing the treatment fluid, inside which the ultrasound waves emitted by the transducer propagate. This device may comprise a means for detecting contact between the treatment head and the keratin material that is to be treated so as, for example, to interrupt the operation of the transducer in the event of an absence of contact. There may be situations in which a loss of liquid is observed, notably leading to a risk of the circulation circuit experiencing a loss of prime, causing the device to be less effective.

[0014] There is a need to overcome this disadvantage and to limit the risk of the fluid circulation circuit experiencing a loss of prime.

[0015] More generally, it is beneficial to limit the risk of liquid leaking from the treatment head, either to outside the device or internally, for example towards a region of this device that is supposed to be kept dry in order to ensure reliable operation thereof, for example because an electrical circuit is present.

[0016] There is also a need to improve user experience and comfort when treating the keratinous material, and the effectiveness of this treatment, notably by allowing the system to return to normal operating conditions quickly following a stoppage.

[0017] Summary of the invention

[0018] The invention aims to meet these needs in full or in part and relates, according to a first of its aspects, to a system for treating human keratinous material, notably the skin and / or the hair, comprising a handpiece comprising:

[0019] - a treatment head to be placed in contact with the keratinous material that is to be treated, defining at least one treatment zone,

[0020] - at least one circuit for the circulation of a fluid, notably a cosmetic composition used in the treatment,

[0021] - at least one ultrasound transducer for emitting acoustic waves at least into the fluid present in the treatment zone, the system further comprising:

[0022] - at least one detector of movement and / or orientation of the handpiece relative to the keratinous material that is to be treated and / or relative to a predefined reference axis, notably the vertical, - at least one control unit with which the detector or detectors communicate, the control unit being designed to act on the operation of the handpiece on the basis of at least one item of information originating from the detector or detectors.

[0023] What is meant by “with which the detector or detectors communicate” is a communication which may be of any kind, for example one-way from a detector to the control unit, or two-way between the two, the information communicated being able to be analogue or digital or even simply binary.

[0024] The treatment of keratinous material using the system according to the invention may notably be a cleansing of the skin or of the hair, an exfoliation of the skin, the diffusion of active ingredients into the keratinous material and / or the treatment of certain skin disorders.

[0025] The invention may make it possible more easily to guarantee optimal conditions of use of the handpiece, notably in terms of the effectiveness of treatment, autonomy, reliability and / or comfort of use.

[0026] In particular, knowledge of the orientation of the handpiece means that one or more actions to reduce the risk of the fluid circulation circuit losing its prime can be performed as early on as possible, for example by using detection of an inclination above a given threshold to anticipate that the treatment head will become separated from the zone of the keratinous material treated or that the handpiece will adopt an orientation that alters the flow of the fluid in the circulation circuit.

[0027] In particular, the detector or detectors sensitive to the inclination of the handpiece while in use make it possible in exemplary embodiments of the invention to halt the circulation of the fluid if the handpiece is inclined in such a way that could lead to an elevated risk of a loss of fluid, notably of fluid leaking into a zone that is to be protected from the fluid. That makes it possible for example to provide more effective protection for the internal elements, notably electrical elements, of the system from a risk associated with the presence of the fluid, and reduce the risk of malfunction still further.

[0028] The system according to the invention may also, by limiting the loss of fluid in the treatment zone, make it possible to maximize the autonomy and the performance of the treatment. The system according to the invention also makes it possible to protect the user from uncontrolled ejections of fluid or from a risk of prolonged contact of the same zone of keratinous material with the treatment head, notably in the event of a rise in the temperature of the transducer, by detecting the movement of the handpiece with respect to the keratinous material and controlling the operation of the system accordingly.

[0029] As a preference, the handpiece comprises a handle which can be arranged so that it is not coaxial with the treatment head. The handle may at least partially contain the fluid circulation circuit.

[0030] Movement and / or orientation detector

[0031] The system may comprise several movement and / or orientation detectors, notably two or three.

[0032] The detector may be internal to the handpiece. As a variant, the detector is external to the handpiece.

[0033] When the detector is external to the handpiece, the system may comprise a camera designed to observe the handpiece, and processing means for determining, at least on the basis of the signal delivered by the camera, the movement, the position and / or the orientation of the handpiece relative to the keratinous material that is to be treated and / or relative to said reference axis, said detector being notably connected to the control unit via a wireless connection. This camera may belong to a smart mirror or phone for example.

[0034] The detector may be selected from inclinometers, notably of the type involving a conductive liquid droplet or a ball, or accelerometers, notably MEMS. It is also possible to use a mercury sensor as a detector, since the technical characteristics of mercury sensors are suited to the present invention. However, because of their environmental impact, it is preferable not to use mercury sensors.

[0035] The detector may notably measure the angle of inclination of the handpiece with respect to the Earth’s gravitational field. The accelerometer may make it possible to detect movement of the handpiece.

[0036] As a preference, the ball inclinometer is positioned in the handpiece in such a way that it is as close as possible to the axis of rotation of the wrist of the user. As a preference, the accelerometer is positioned in the handle of the handpiece.

[0037] The detector may comprise a gyroscope, notably coupled to an accelerometer, thereby making it possible to determine both movement and orientation.

[0038] The detector may be sensitive to the Earth’s magnetic field.

[0039] The movement detector may comprise a time-of-flight laser sensor, or a detection device involving a reflected beam and observation of the created patterns, such as in optical mice. As a variant, the detector may be an ultrasound detector.

[0040] The detector may also comprise a capacitive or inductive proximity sensor.

[0041] The detector may deliver a continuous or pulsed analogue signal, or a digital signal, that varies according to the orientation and / or the movement of the handpiece.

[0042] For example, the detector may emit one pulse for each elementary displacement, the movement being determined by counting the pulses emitted.

[0043] The detector may be a unidirectional detector, i.e. one that measures the inclination of a single axis. As a variant, the detector is a bidirectional detector, i.e. one that simultaneously measures the inclination of two axes of the handpiece.

[0044] The detector may have a measurement range of ±180°.

[0045] It may have a resolution better than 10°, notably better than 5°, better still than 1°, and even better still than 0.1°.

[0046] Control unit

[0047] The control unit may be situated inside or outside the handpiece. As a variant, part of the control unit is situated inside the handpiece and another part of the control unit is situated outside the handpiece.

[0048] The control unit may analyse the data originating from the movement and / or orientation detector or detectors, notably in order therefrom to deduce a command to be sent to the transducer and / or to any other element of the handpiece. The transducer may be operated by the control unit. The control unit is notably designed to switch the transducer on or off or to modify the power thereof, on the basis of the data originating from the detector or detectors.

[0049] The control unit preferably comprises a microcontroller. The control unit may comprise one or more other electronic boards, all grouped together in the handpiece, or not, and able, when not all grouped together in the handpiece, to communicate with one another by any type of connection, for example in RF, optical or wired connection.

[0050] The external detector may notably be connected to the control unit by a wireless connection, notably a Wi-Fi or Bluetooth® connection.

[0051] The control unit may execute a program which governs the operation of the handpiece, and notably applies one or more operating instructions which are dependent on the movement and / or the orientation of the handpiece. Examples of such instructions are given later.

[0052] The control unit may make it possible to log the dates of use, durations of use and / or the identity of the user, where applicable. The control unit may, if usage is deemed to be too frequent with respect to a predefined threshold, disable the system and / or alert the user, notably via a phone notification. The control unit may, if usage is deemed to be too infrequent with respect to a desired result, alert the user, notably via a phone notification.

[0053] Reservoir

[0054] The system, notably the handpiece, comprises at least one reservoir for containing the fluid used in the treatment.

[0055] What should be understood by “reservoir” is any element able to contain the fluid; thus, the reservoir may be formed by any type of cavity, by a pouch or a cartridge, namely in this last case by an element that is removable.

[0056] The system may comprise several separate reservoirs, for example one reservoir of fluid to be distributed to the zone that is to be treated and one reservoir for containing used fluid that has been at least partially recovered following treatment. As a variant, the fluid coming from the reservoir is not recycled by the system or is sent back to the same reservoir from which it came, for example to an opposite end of this reservoir to the end from which it is taken.

[0057] The reservoirs may be separated from one another by one or more filters. Various sub-portions of the reservoir or reservoirs may be separated by one or more filters.

[0058] The reservoir or reservoirs may or may not be detachable from the system, notably from the handpiece. The reservoir or reservoirs are for example single-use reservoirs and may be replaced when there is no longer any fluid, or when the fluid recovered needs to be removed.

[0059] It is even possible to provide reservoirs the capacity of which varies according to the treatment to be performed on the keratinous material, it being possible for the system to be configured so as to allow the user to fit the reservoir of their choice, selected from among several with different respective capacities.

[0060] The handpiece preferably comprises at least one electric pump for circulating the fluid between the reservoir or reservoirs and the keratinous material that is to be treated. The pump is preferably operated by the control unit.

[0061] The control unit may be designed to act on the pump in order to reduce or increase the flow rate of the fluid in the fluid circulation circuit on the basis of the data originating from the detector. For example, when the system detects that it is no longer in contact with the keratinous material that is to be treated, the operation of the pump may be modified in order to save energy and / or reduce the risk of leakage.

[0062] When the system comprises a pump for circulating the fluid towards the treatment zone, the system advantageously, in order to facilitate the cleaning and / or decontamination of the reservoir, comprises a selector that allows the circulation of the fluid to be switched over from a first configuration in which circulation is between the reservoir or reservoirs and the treatment zone, and a second configuration used for purging and / or filling the reservoir or reservoirs.

[0063] The reservoir or reservoirs may comprise one or more compartments, notably several compartments integrated into the one same body and separated by a wall, or several communicating compartments, for example connected by a canal. The reservoir or reservoirs may comprise a compartment containing the fluid to be distributed to the zone that is to be treated, and a compartment collecting the used fluid, for example so that it can be recycled. The two compartments may communicate, for example via a filter.

[0064] The reservoir or reservoirs may even comprise several compartments in which different compositions may be stored. These compositions may be mixed at the time of use and may, for some of them, be solid and / or in the form of powders that are rapidly soluble.

[0065] For example, one reservoir may comprise a first compartment containing a solid composition, for example in the form of powder, for example of crystals, and a second compartment comprising a fluid composition, it being possible for the two compartments to communicate with one another during use so that the fluid composition dissolves the solid composition.

[0066] The first compartment may even comprise a mixture of a solid composition in suspension and of a liquid in which the solid composition is insoluble, the fluid composition of the second compartment dissolving the mixture at the time of use of the system.

[0067] The reservoir or reservoirs may comprise one or more filters able to filter out impurities in the collected fluid before the fluid is redistributed to the zone that is to be treated. The reservoir may even comprise a vent.

[0068] The reservoir or reservoirs may contain a gas and / or a liquid, notably under pressure, making it possible for example to unblock the fluid circulation circuit during a phase of cleaning of the system, or to increase the flow rate of fluid in the fluid circulation circuit.

[0069] The reservoir or reservoirs may comprise a thermal device for heating or cooling the fluid, notably a resistive electrical element. This thermal device may be controlled by the control unit, on the basis of the movement or of the orientation of the handpiece. The act of heating all or some of the fluid may make it possible to reduce the viscosity thereof, and this may notably allow better circulation of the fluid and make it possible to avoid premature fouling of the fluid circulation circuit.

[0070] The reservoir or reservoirs are preferably compatible with one or more liquids of varying natures, notably different types of compositions, which may or may not be miscible, and cleaning liquids. The reservoir or reservoirs are preferably at least partially transparent, thus enabling the user to make a visual assessment of their fill levels and / or of the level of cleanliness of the fluids that they contain.

[0071] The reservoir or reservoirs may be deformable or made of rigid material, notably of glass or plastic. A reservoir may comprise a removable part, and thus be of a volume that can be adjusted as desired. The reservoir or reservoirs may be fitted with check valves allowing them to be uncoupled from a receiving housing without loss of fluid.

[0072] The reservoir or reservoirs may take the form of cartridges of generally cylindrical or some other shape, or of flexible pouches.

[0073] At least one reservoir has a capacity for example of between 1 ml and 200 ml, better still between 1 and 50 ml.

[0074] The reservoir or reservoirs may comprise one or more fluid non-return devices, for example at least one check valve which opens automatically when the reservoir is fitted into a corresponding housing on the handpiece or its support, and which closes automatically when the reservoir has been detached from the handpiece or from the support, in order to avoid loss of liquid.

[0075] Fluid circulation circuit

[0076] The fluid may be circulated with or without recirculation, continuously or intermittently.

[0077] The fluid circulation circuit typically comprises a plurality of ducts, which are connected in an appropriate way for creating the desired circulation of fluid, for example with series or parallel connections, being joined together using appropriate connections.

[0078] The fluid circulation circuit connects together the various parts of the system that are involved with the circulation of the fluid, such as the treatment head, the pump or pumps and the fluid reservoir or reservoirs, as well as the filter or filters or other purification or disinfection systems. The fluid circulation circuit may comprise one or more auxiliary outlets and / or one or more valves enabling the regulation of the circulation of the fluid and notably making it possible to remove any excess fluid from the fluid circulation circuit.

[0079] The fluid circulation circuit may comprise a water intake enabling it to be filled with water and / or cleaned from an external network.

[0080] The handpiece may comprise a solenoid valve connected to the control unit. The control unit is preferably designed to operate the solenoid valve on the basis of the data originating from the detector so as to reduce or increase the flow rate of the fluid in the fluid circulation circuit.

[0081] The control unit may notably be designed to reduce the risk of the fluid circulation circuit experiencing a loss of prime in the event of the treatment head becoming separated from the zone of keratinous material that is being treated, by interrupting the pump operation early on and / or by actuating one or more solenoid valves to prevent air from entering the ducts communicating with the treatment chamber situated at the treatment head.

[0082] The reservoir or reservoirs and the fluid circulation circuit enabling the circulation of the fluid may belong to one and the same assembly forming a refill, this being able to be handled in one piece in order to be fitted on the system and removed therefrom; refilling with product is rendered easier as a result. Such a refill may, where appropriate, have a mechanical interface with the pump or other drive mechanism making it possible, when actuated, to establish a circulation of product from the refill towards the treatment zone.

[0083] The assembly that forms a refill may be designed to be fixed, for example by clip-fastening or in some other way, in the system, for example in one and the same casing as the one containing another component of the system, for example an electric generator.

[0084] Treatment head

[0085] The treatment head is preferably designed to distribute the fluid to the zone that is to be treated via at least one fluid outlet, and / or to at least partially recover the used fluid from the zone that is to be treated using for example a fluid return inlet. The treatment head may be fed by one or more ducts with fluid originating from one or more reservoirs.

[0086] The treatment head may comprise the aforementioned detector, or one of same when the system comprises several of them.

[0087] The treatment head may notably comprise a detector sensitive to the movement of the treatment head and / or to the orientation of the treatment head relative to the keratinous material for example.

[0088] The treatment head may also comprise, if the movement and / or orientation detector or detectors are not able to deliver such information, a detector sensitive to the treatment head being in contact with, or close proximity to, the material that is to be treated.

[0089] The fluid outlet and / or inlet are, for example, connected to the aforementioned fluid circulation circuit. In particular, the fluid circulation circuit may be arranged with respect to the treatment head in such a way as to partially distribute and / or collect the fluid in front of and / or behind the emission surface of the sonotrode of the transducer, for example through at least one orifice on the emission surface.

[0090] As a preference, the transducer extends at least partially into the treatment head. It may notably be fully housed therein.

[0091] The treatment head may comprise a heating element such as a resistive electrical element, for heating the composition for example, and / or a light source arranged to illuminate the treatment zone during use and / or to activate certain constituents of the fluid in which cavitation occurs.

[0092] The treatment head may be designed to deliver micro-currents to the keratinous material, notably while this material is being treated, through the fluid.

[0093] The treatment head may comprise at least one filter, used for example for filtering the composition which is recycled, this filter being for example arranged in the return path of the fluid.

[0094] The treatment head may comprise a porous material and / or a material that is able to release or diffuse a fluid, notably an open-cell foam, preferably borne by a removable support, notably in the form of a frame. The treatment head may comprise distribution orifices such as slots, which are closed at rest and open under the pressure of the composition upstream, and have an elasticity that allows an increase in volume during filling and distribution of fluid that continues after the end of the filling action.

[0095] The treatment head may comprise a chamber for storing a sufficient quantity of fluid to allow the treatment of the keratinous material and the contact of the bubbles with the surface to be cleansed.

[0096] The treatment head may comprise several compartments which are either mutually independent or communicate with one another.

[0097] The treatment head may comprise parts made of a flexible and / or deformable material, notably an elastically deformable material, particularly as regards the parts in contact with the keratinous material that is to be treated.

[0098] The treatment head may have diverse shapes dependent on the intended use of the system.

[0099] The treatment head may comprise one or more removable parts that the user can easily detach from the system, preferably without resorting to any tool. That makes cleaning between uses easier.

[0100] The treatment head may be oriented in different ways; it may notably rotate about an axis or be mounted on a ball joint. At least part of the treatment head, notably the emission surface, may pivot through 360°.

[0101] The removable part or parts of the treatment head may be attached to the rest of the system via any suitable fixing means, particularly a ball joint, a spring or a piston. The treatment head is preferably mobile; in certain examples it may be inclined or rotated through more than 180°, 270° or 360° about at least one axis.

[0102] The transducer is preferably arranged in relation to the treatment head in such a way as to keep the acoustic wave emission surface of the sonotrode away from the surface of the keratinous material that is to be treated.

[0103] Where applicable, the transducer is mobile relative to a fixed part of the system, for example driven in a rotating or back and forth movement. The treatment head may comprise an endpiece, preferably removable, in contact with the keratinous material that is to be treated.

[0104] The endpiece, when removable, is for example chosen according to the use, for example by selecting the type, size, firmness and / or shape best suited to the morphology of the zone that is to be cleansed.

[0105] User interface

[0106] The system, notably the handpiece, may comprise a user interface, which may comprise an audio output and / or a luminous indicator and / or a display screen and / or a haptic device.

[0107] The system, notably the handpiece, may thus comprise an audio output designed to deliver information audible to the user. The audio output is preferably connected to the control unit, the information delivered by the audio output preferably being instructions for moving, positioning and / or orientating the handpiece in response to data originating from the detector or detectors.

[0108] The system, notably the handpiece, may also comprise, as mentioned above, a luminous indicator and / or a display screen which are designed to deliver information visible to the user, for example a flashing light or a text. The luminous indicator and / or the display screen are preferably connected to the control unit, the information delivered preferably being instructions for moving, positioning and / or orientating the handpiece in response to data originating from the detector.

[0109] When the system, notably the handpiece, comprises a haptic device, the latter may be designed to interact mechanically with the user, notably by vibrating, in order to deliver information to them. The haptic device is preferably connected to the control unit, the information delivered preferably being instructions for moving, positioning and / or orientating the handpiece in response to data originating from the detector.

[0110] The system is able, by virtue of the audio output, the luminous indicator, the display screen, and / or the haptic device, to guide the user in the use and / or the manipulation of the system, notably so that the user keeps the treatment head in a predefined orientation corresponding to optimal operation, by alerting the user as soon as they deviate from optimal conditions of use.

[0111] The system may vocally guide the user during use of the system; the system may notably guide the user in the manipulation of the system, in the use, cleaning, dismantling, storage and / or maintenance thereof.

[0112] Handpiece

[0113] What is meant by a “handpiece” is a device the size of which allows it to be manipulated by the user in just one hand. The handpiece may comprise a surface suitable for being grasped by the user in their hand and forming a handle, as mentioned hereinabove.

[0114] The detector or detectors may form part of the handpiece, as indicated above.

[0115] The same is true of the control unit.

[0116] The handpiece may comprise, notably at the treatment head, a guiding and / or combing member, an endpiece, a grille, one or more spacers and / or a flexible lip.

[0117] The handpiece can be manipulated in all orientations; it can be manipulated head up or head down for example.

[0118] At least one UV radiation source may be situated inside the handpiece, so as to expose to the UV radiation at least an internal surface of the reservoir or part of the fluid circulation circuit, and / or a surface of the treatment head in contact with the fluid.

[0119] The reservoir or reservoirs may be arranged in the handpiece, notably in the handle thereof, or at least partially outside the handpiece. That may make them easier to detach, notably for positioning on a handpiece support cradle, which supports the handpiece when it is not in use.

[0120] The handpiece is preferably powered by an electric battery, but may also be connected to a power cord. The battery can be recharged directly by a power cord or by a support on which the handpiece is set down.

[0121] The system, notably the handpiece, may on its surface bear information in the form of engravings intended for the user and providing help as to the use and manipulation of the system. The engravings may be arrows, pictograms, symbols, and help for the visually impaired, such as Braille.

[0122] Support

[0123] The system may comprise a support designed to accept the handpiece when the device is not being used for the treatment of the keratinous material. This support may be in the form of a cradle on which the handpiece is set down when not being used for the treatment of the keratinous material.

[0124] The support is notably designed to electrically power the handpiece when it is received in the support, the detector preferably being designed to detect the presence of the handpiece on the support. The support may enable the recharging of a battery in the handpiece, used for powering the electronic circuit that ensures the operation thereof, and / or may allow the handpiece to be put away while notably protecting the treatment head from becoming soiled.

[0125] The support may be designed to store internal and / or external parts of the handpiece and / or accessories, notably a brush, a spare head, a new reservoir, and / or cartridges of ancillary products.

[0126] The support may comprise a transformer or a converter connected to the electrical network.

[0127] The support may comprise at least one UV radiation source arranged to emit UV radiation onto the treatment head.

[0128] When the reservoir is detachable from the handpiece, it is advantageous for the support to comprise a housing in which to place the reservoir, notably with its opening oriented downwards, and for the support also to allow the handpiece to be set down thereon both when the reservoir is in place on the handpiece and when the reservoir has been detached from the handpiece and installed in the corresponding housing belonging to the support.

[0129] The control unit may be designed to detect, thanks to at least one item of information delivered by the detector, the placement of the handpiece to its support, and to switch over into a predefined state. The system may be designed to bring about automatic calibration of the detector or detectors when the handpiece is resting on the support.

[0130] System

[0131] As a preference, the system is a non-therapeutic system, particularly for carrying out a cosmetic treatment.

[0132] The system according to the invention may, if desired, allow effective treatment both of exogenic impurities and of endogenic impurities or defects, while at the same time meeting certain currently applicable environmental requirements and safety standards.

[0133] At least part of the system may heat and / or diffuse light and / or cool, thereby for example making it possible to activate certain compounds present in the fluid, notably in the cosmetic composition.

[0134] The system, notably the handpiece and / or the support, may at least partially vibrate, thereby notably making it possible to dislodge certain impurities stuck in the reservoir and / or the fluid circulation circuit, for example in the pump.

[0135] The system may be associated with additional grip means, for example for additional hands, these means being arranged in such a way as to allow certain individuals living with disabilities to use it.

[0136] The system may comprise inscriptions in Braille, notably on certain parts of the handpiece, of the support, and / or of an external charger of the system.

[0137] Method for treating human keratinous material

[0138] Another subject of the invention, according to another of the aspects of the invention, is a method for the cosmetic treatment of keratinous material by means of a system as defined hereinabove, involving exposing at least a zone of the keratinous material to ultrasound emitted by the transducer.

[0139] The method preferably involves moving the handpiece vertically from top to bottom in the zone that is to be treated, this movement preferably being performed while keeping the handpiece in a predefined, for example head-up, orientation. The fact that the handpiece is head-up during the treatment may reduce the risk of the fluid circuit experiencing a loss of prime and / or the risk of losing liquid.

[0140] The longitudinal axis of the handpiece is preferably inclined, during the vertical movement thereof, with respect to the vertical by an angle less than or equal to 60°, preferably less than or equal to 45°, towards the front or the rear of the handpiece and / or by an angle less than or equal to 60°, preferably less than or equal to 45°, to the side of the handpiece.

[0141] The “front of the handpiece” means that face thereof that faces towards the keratinous material that is to be treated, and the “rear face of the handpiece” means the opposite face.

[0142] Method for controlling operation

[0143] Another subject of the invention, according to yet another of the aspects of the invention, is a method for controlling the operation of a system as defined hereinabove, involving:

[0144] (a) the detection of the movement of the handpiece and / or the orientation of the handpiece, by the detector,

[0145] (b) the transmission of the detection information obtained in step (a) to the control unit,

[0146] (c) the sending of at least one instruction based on the detection information, from the control unit to the pump and / or to the transducer and / or to the solenoid valve and / or to a user interface.

[0147] The instruction sent to the pump may be to stop, to start, or to modify its flow rate.

[0148] The instruction sent to the transducer may be to stop, to start, or to modify the power of the acoustic waves it emits.

[0149] The instruction sent to the solenoid valve may be the degree to which it is open.

[0150] The instruction sent to the audio output may be to emit an audible beep or phrase announcing a succinct mode of use of the system. The instruction sent to the luminous indicator may be to establish a flashing light and / or coloured illumination in a predefined colour.

[0151] The instruction sent to the display screen may be to display a message indicating a succinct mode of use of the system. The message may appear continuously or intermittently, notably by flashing.

[0152] The instruction sent to the haptic device being to vibrate, continuously or discontinuously.

[0153] The method may involve the detection of the movement and / or of the orientation of the handpiece, in order for example to:

[0154] - send the user a message to make them move the handpiece with a predefined movement, when the system detects that the user is moving the handpiece in a movement that could lead to a drop in the performance of the treatment, for example is moving too slowly or too quickly or too erratically,

[0155] - pause the operation of the transducer if prolonged immobility of the treatment head in contact with the treated zone, liable to subject the user to a feeling of discomfort, for example on account of the temperature of the transducer, is detected,

[0156] - pause the operation of the handpiece if a movement that might correspond to the latter being dropped is detected,

[0157] - bring the handpiece into a predefined status, for example standby, if immobilization corresponding to the handpiece being placed on the support is detected, and / or

[0158] - trigger one or more predefined actions according to the orientation of the handpiece, for example act on the flow rate of the pump and / or on one or more solenoid valves if an orientation that deviates from the vertical by a predefined value is detected. Brief description of the drawings

[0159] The invention may be understood more clearly on reading the following detailed description of nonlimiting implementation examples thereof and on examining the appended drawing, in which:

[0160] [Fig 1] schematically and partially illustrates one example of a system according to the invention,

[0161] [Fig 2] schematically and partially illustrates the handpiece of the system of Figure 1,

[0162] [Fig 3] schematically and partially illustrates the system of Figure 1 with the reservoir detached from the handpiece,

[0163] [Fig 4] schematically and partially illustrates the system of Figure 1 in the form of a block diagram,

[0164] [Fig 5] schematically and partially illustrates the inclination of the handpiece of the system of Figure 1,

[0165] [Fig 6] schematically and partially illustrates the preferred location of a ball sensor in the system of Figure 1,

[0166] [Fig 7] schematically and partially illustrates the preferred location of an accelerometer in the system of Figure 1,

[0167] [Fig 8] schematically and partially illustrates the preferred location of an accelerometer with gyroscope in the system of Figure 1,

[0168] [Fig 9] is a schematic view of one example of a system comprising the handpiece and an external sensor comprising a camera and forming part for example of a smart mirror or of a phone.

[0169] Detailed description

[0170] Figures 1 to 8 illustrate a system 1 for the treatment of the skin, according to the invention, comprising a handpiece 2 and a support 3 on which this handpiece can be set down when not being used for treating the keratinous material.

[0171] Handpiece The handpiece 2 comprises a handle 4, a treatment head 5, a circuit 6 for circulating a composition C and at least one reservoir 7 containing this composition C.

[0172] The reservoir 7 makes it possible, during the operation of the system, to compensate for any losses of composition, in the event that a portion thereof is not recycled.

[0173] The reservoir 7 is preferably detachable from the handpiece, as illustrated in Figure 3. As a variant, the reservoir 7 is not detachable from the handpiece.

[0174] The circuit 6 comprises a forcing pump 11 schematically depicted in Figure 4. The pump 11 may have any type of drive, notably manual or electric, and preferably electric. It may be of varying type. The pump 11 is for example a positive-displacement pump or centrifugal pump, notably a peristaltic pump, diaphragm pump, or piston pump, or a combination of several types of pump. The pump 11 may be powered by direct current or alternating current. As a preference, the power supply voltage of the pump 11 is less than 50 V, being for example powered at a voltage ranging from 5 to 12 V. The pump 11 is preferably compatible with liquids of varying nature, notably aqueous, oily, mixed liquids containing particles or fillers in suspension, or even polymers. The mechanism of the pump 11 may be driven as direct drive from a motor or via a reduction gear. When the drive is a manual drive, the system 1 may comprise a handle that the user actuates in order to operate the pump 11. As a preference, the pump 11 is configured to provide a fluid flow rate of between 0.01 ml and 15 ml per second. The pump 11 may or may not be removable. The pump 11 may generate a negative and / or positive pressure on the fluid in order to cause the fluid to circulate and bring it into contact with the skin. The pump may also be used for the internal cleaning of all or part of the system. The pump 11 may contain a single-part or multipart filter. The pump 11 can be mechanically or electrically isolated in the system 1, for example so that it can be removed from the system 1 for cleaning.

[0175] The treatment head 5 comprises a surface 10 in contact with the composition C, the treatment head 5 being designed to deliver the composition C to a zone of the keratinous material that is to be treated. The composition leaves the treatment head 5 via a first opening 101 of a duct 6a. The handpiece 2 can be moved along the zone that is to be treated and it is possible for the composition C that is delivered by the opening 101 not to be recycled. As a variant, recycling of the composition C is performed, the composition leaving via the opening 101 recirculating in the circuit 6 and optionally the reservoir 7 after having been reinjected into the circuit 6 via a second opening 102 of a duct 6b present on the treatment head 5.

[0176] The duct 6b may communicate with a suction pump 30 as illustrated in Figure 4, for example an electric pump, which may send the forcibly delivered composition C into a treatment and purification unit 40 that enables the composition C to be recycled so that it can be sent back to the keratinous material that is to be treated, the composition C then circulating at least partially in closed-circuit. The treatment and purification unit is, for example, a filtration system comprising one or more filters designed to hold back particles in suspension in the composition, such as skin debris removed during cleansing. A filtration system is for example arranged between the suction pump and the reservoir 7 so that the composition C is returned to the reservoir 7 after filtration.

[0177] The handpiece may, where applicable, comprise, around the openings 101 and 102 of the treatment head 5, a sealing element 103 depicted schematically in Figure 4, such as a flexible lip, in order to contain the composition C when the head is applied to the skin, and facilitate its return via the duct 6b. The lip may be made up of sub-elements between which the composition can be recovered.

[0178] The treatment head 5 comprises at least one transducer 13 emitting acoustic waves and a sonotrode, the surface 10 in contact with the composition being defined for example by a free end of the sonotrode. Bubbles may be generated in the composition C as a result of the acoustic waves owing to the power and frequency of the acoustic waves.

[0179] The transducer 13 may be powered with direct current or alternating current from an electric power source. The acoustic power delivered by the transducer 13 may vary according to the supply voltage of the transducer and / or according to the current with which the transducer is powered, notably according to whether it is a direct current or an alternating current.

[0180] The emission surface 10 for emitting the acoustic waves towards the liquid environment may comprise reliefs or etchings from which the bubbles may originate at different levels along the longitudinal axis of the transducer 13. In particular, these reliefs may offer nucleation sites at their tip and at their base. The reliefs may allow a more uniform production of bubbles. These reliefs may also encourage the collapse of the bubbles because the differences in level along the longitudinal axis make it possible to generate relatively extensive cavitation zones that are not restricted to a single plane. In addition to the reliefs on the emission surface 10, which contribute to improving the production of bubbles, the emission surface may have reliefs that pursue another goal, for example that of retaining the fluid or of cleaning the zone that is to be treated. These for example are reliefs made of a flexible material, for example bristles, notably flocking.

[0181] The handpiece 2 further comprises an electronic circuit 14.

[0182] The electronic circuit 14 notably comprises a control unit 19 and one or more sensors 20 sensing the movement and / or orientation of the handpiece 2 with respect to a reference axis, notably the vertical, this or these sensors 20 communicating their measurements to the control unit 19. This or these sensors may provide information as to the position of the handpiece relative to the keratinous material or, as a variant, may be supplemented by one or more position sensors.

[0183] The control unit 19 has control over the operation of the pump 11, of the suction pump 30, of a battery 18 powering the system (notably the charging thereof) and of the transducer 13.

[0184] As illustrated respectively in Figures 5A and 5B, the sensor or sensors 20 may measure the inclination a in side view and the inclination P in front view of the handpiece 2, with respect to the vertical V.

[0185] The sensor or sensors 20 may also detect when the handpiece 2 is received on the support 3, for example by detecting the orientation conferred upon the handpiece by the support and the absence of movement of the handpiece.

[0186] The sensor or sensors 20 may also detect when the surface 10 is in contact with the keratinous material.

[0187] The control unit 19 is connected by connections to an electronic generator 16 notably powering the transducer 13. This generator 16 comprises for example an oscillator and a power stage.

[0188] The control unit 19 can start the pump 11 and / or the suction pump 30 and / or the emission of the acoustic waves by the transducer 13 only when the surface 10 is in contact with the keratinous material that is to be treated, notably in such a way as to allow the composition to be recycled. The control unit 19 may allow the pump 11, the pump 30 and / or the transducer 13 to be started progressively, notably in steps, as this may allow a progressive increase in power of these various elements. The control unit 19 may also start the pump 11 and / or the suction pump 30 and / or the emission of the acoustic waves by the transducer 13 only when the handpiece 2 is being used correctly, comfortably, with a suitable movement and an orientation a and P that cannot cause cosmetic composition to leak inside and / or outside of the handpiece 2. Where such is not the case, if the control unit 19 estimates that there is a risk of leakage, it may stop the pump 11 and / or the suction pump 30 and / or the transducer 13.

[0189] Furthermore, if the control unit 19 estimates that there is a risk of discomfort to the user, notably on account of excessively prolonged contact between the treatment head 5 and one same zone of keratinous material, it may stop the pump 11 and / or the suction pump 30 and / or the transducer.

[0190] The control unit 19 may also send an instruction to the pump 11 and / or the suction pump 30 to reduce the flow rate of fluid in the circuit 6 and / or may send an instruction to the transducer 13 to reduce the power of the ultrasound waves.

[0191] The control unit 19 may also communicate with an optical detector, not depicted, able to detect the presence of a compound that is to be removed from the surface of the keratinous material, and possibly to determine the quantity present.

[0192] The control unit 19 also communicates with a human-machine interface 17 comprising a display screen 171, control buttons 172 and luminous indicators 173; it may also communicate via a wireless connection with a terminal such as a mobile phone. The indicator lamps 173 are able to inform the user as to the state of operation of the system and / or as to the mode of operation thereof, notably through the illumination and / or flashing of coloured LEDs.

[0193] The indicator lamps 173 and / or the display screen 171 may emit, in the form of text and / or of some other display and / or of coloured and / or flashing light, an instruction regarding the use of the system and / or a safety warning aimed at the user. In particular, said instruction is emitted on the basis of the measurements taken by the sensor or sensors 20.

[0194] The human-machine interface 17 also enables the system to be diagnosed remotely, to be reprogrammed, to receive software updates and / or to automatically issue orders for the delivery of accessories to replace spent accessories, cleaning and / or treatment products. The human-machine interface 17 may make it possible to adjust certain operating parameters of the system 1, for example the intensity with which the acoustic waves are emitted.

[0195] The control unit 19 may make it possible, as indicated above, to log the dates of use, durations of use and / or the identity of the user, where applicable. The control unit 19 may, if usage of the system is deemed to be too frequent with respect to a predefined threshold, disable the system 1 and / or alert the user, notably by notifications sent to a phone. The control unit 19 may, if usage is deemed to be too infrequent with respect to the desired result, alert the user, notably by notifications sent to a phone.

[0196] Excessively frequent use of the system 1 may notably lead to irritation of the keratinous material. Excessively infrequent use of the system 1 may limit the effects of the treatment on the keratinous material and not allow the desired result to be achieved.

[0197] The control unit 19 may also control an audio output 15 notably located on the handpiece. The audio output makes it possible to emit usage instructions and / or safety warnings aimed at the user, notably on the basis of the measurements taken by the sensor or sensors 20.

[0198] The battery 18 may be removable; it may be used for powering the entirety of the system 1, or just part, notably the pump 11. The battery 18 may be of varying type, for example Li-ion or NiMH, preferably of a type suited to wet conditions or which can be at least partially immersed in a liquid. The battery 18 is preferably rechargeable. The battery 18 is preferably selected to be able, without needing to be recharged, to power the system 1 for a number of consecutive treatment sessions, or even several treatment sessions and one cleaning of the system 1.

[0199] The handpiece 2 may further comprise a solenoid valve, not depicted in the figures, enabling the flow rate of cosmetic composition in the circuit 6 to be modified or enabling a duct of this circuit to be closed. The solenoid valve is preferably operated by the control unit 19 and the instructions that are sent to it are preferably dependent on the measurements taken by the sensor or sensors 20.

[0200] Support The support 3 comprises, as illustrated in Figure 3, a first housing 8 to accept the handpiece 2, and a second housing 9 to accept the reservoir with an opening of the reservoir

[0201] 7 oriented downwards. The reservoir 7 may be accommodated in the housing 9 of the support, while the handpiece 2 detached from the reservoir 7 is accommodated in the housing

[0202] 8 of the support 3.

[0203] The support may comprise a fluid discharge, not depicted, notably enabling the fluid to be discharged should it overflow. The housing 9 may comprise a fluid discharge enabling the fluid to be discharged when the reservoir 7 is received in the housing 9, notably with a view to drying. The fluid discharge may be situated underneath the support 3 and / or on a lateral part of the support 3, preferably at a lower level than the downwardly oriented opening of the reservoir 7 in the housing 9.

[0204] The system is for example charged via a USB port (not depicted) notably sited on the support 3. The support 3 comprises, for example, as illustrated, a first connector 32 and the handpiece 2 a second connector 22 which is designed to connect with the first connector 32 when the handpiece 2 is received on the support 3, this connection enabling the handpiece 2 to be charged. The connectors 22 and 32 may be connectors at least one of which is spring-loaded.

[0205] In a variant, the handpiece 2 may be charged by induction when held on the support 3.

[0206] The battery 18 may also be removed and charged separately.

[0207] The support 3 may comprise part of the electronic circuit 14, this notably enabling the handpiece 2 to be lighter.

[0208] Use for the treatment of keratinous material

[0209] The system 1 may be used for the treatment of keratinous material, for example the skin.

[0210] The treatment head 5 is thus brought into contact with the keratinous material by the user manipulating the handpiece 2, and this user may switch the system 1 on while the treatment head is pressed against the keratinous material.

[0211] The composition C coming from the reservoir 7 circulates in the circuit 6, notably in the duct 6a, through the driving of the pump 11. The composition C circulating in the duct 6a is released into contact with the keratinous material through the opening 101. The transducer 13 generates acoustic waves enabling the formation of bubbles within the cosmetic composition C and the collapse of said bubbles, thus enabling the desired treatment of the keratinous material.

[0212] The composition C is, at least partly, reinjected into the circuit 6, notably by virtue of the suction pump 30. The composition C re-enters the treatment head 5 via the opening 102 to be sent to the treatment and purification unit 40.

[0213] On leaving the treatment and purification unit 40, the composition C is sent back to the reservoir 7.

[0214] The user moves the handpiece in a substantially vertical movement from top to bottom, for example over the face or the body, with the treatment head 5 uppermost, in contact with the keratinous material. The user keeps the handpiece 2 for example in an orientation such that the longitudinal axis O thereof is inclined with respect to the vertical V by an angle a less than or equal to 45° and / or by an angle P less than or equal to 45°.

[0215] The control unit 19 may be designed to detect when the orientation of the handpiece deviates from the above-recommended operating conditions and to alert the user via the interface 17. The control unit may also act on the circuit 6 and / or the transducer 13 in order for example to halt the operation of these.

[0216] Sensors

[0217] The movement and / or orientation sensor or sensors 20 may be selected from, inter alia, ball-type sensors 21, accelerometers 23, and cameras 24.

[0218] A ball-type sensor 21 consists of a steel ball which, beyond a certain inclination, completes an electrical circuit. The ball sensor 21 is advantageously located in the handle 4 of the handpiece 2, as close as possible to the centre of rotation of the wrist, so as to reduce the effects of centrifugal force, in the zone X illustrated in Figure 6. It notably comes into operation for a handpiece inclination of ±30° with a precision of ±10°.

[0219] A three-axis accelerometer 23 may act as an orientation sensor because gravity acts as a constant acceleration. The three-axis accelerometer 23 is advantageously located in the handle 4 of the handpiece 2, as close as possible to the centre of rotation of the wrist, so as to reduce the effects of centrifugal force, in the zone Y illustrated in Figure 7. It notably comes into operation for a handpiece inclination of ±20° with a precision of ±5°. The three-axis accelerometer 23 may be coupled with a gyroscope, this making it possible to determine the position of the handpiece and thus eliminate errors associated with centrifugal force. The three-axis accelerometer 23 coupled with the gyroscope may therefore be located anywhere in the handpiece, in the zone Z illustrated in Figure 7. It notably comes into operation for a handpiece inclination of ±20° with a precision of ±2°.

[0220] The three-axis accelerometer 23 coupled with the gyroscope may also be coupled with a three-axis compass thereby making it possible to limit any drift in position over time. The three-axis accelerometer 23 coupled with the gyroscope and with the compass may likewise be located anywhere in the handpiece, in the zone Z illustrated in Figure 7. It notably comes into operation for a handpiece inclination of ±20° with a precision of ±1°.

[0221] The movement and / or orientation sensor 20 may also comprise at least one camera 24, as mentioned above.

[0222] This or these cameras 24 may be mounted on the handpiece 2 and image the environment external to the handpiece 2; the control unit 19 may then be designed to calculate, from the images provided, notably in stereo vision, the movement of the handpiece 2.

[0223] The camera or cameras 24 may also be external to the handpiece 2. The camera or cameras 24 are preferably situated in the environment close to the user, the camera or cameras 24 notably being fixed to the walls and / or the ceiling of the room in which the system is used. The camera or cameras 24 may be smart cameras or may belong to one or more devices external to the system, such as a smart mirror and / or a phone.

[0224] By way of example, Figure 9 illustrates a system 1 which comprises a sensor 20 external to the handpiece, in the form of at least one camera 24 incorporated into a smart device 25 such as a smart mirror or phone.

[0225] The handpiece 2 is used in the field of view of the camera 24 and the device 25 is able to process the images obtained by the camera 24 in order to recognize the handpiece 2 in these images, and thus determine the movement and orientation of said handpiece.

[0226] The handpiece 2 may be equipped, in order to make it easier for the camera 24 to recognize, with geometric or luminous reference markings 26, for example several illuminated spots 26 modulated at a predefined frequency.

[0227] The device 25 may send to the handpiece 2, for example by a wireless connection instruction to stop the pump 11 and / or the transducer 13 when the device 25 detects that the handpiece 2 is distant from the material being treated or is being used in an incorrect orientation.

[0228] The device 25 may also emit an audio and / or visual message containing one or more usage recommendations on the basis for example of the path and / or the speed of the treatment head 5 over the material that is to be treated.

[0229] In instances in which use is being made of an external device 25, the electronics present inside the handpiece 2 may be designed to allow a wireless connection 27 to be established with the device 25 and to perform all or some of the information processing enabling the operation of the handpiece 2 to be controlled on the basis of the images, and / or to generate the messages intended for the user.

[0230] Of course, the invention is not limited to the examples that have just been described.

[0231] In the case of a hair treatment, the system according to the invention may comprise at least one guiding and / or combing member designed to guide the hair as it moves close to and / or into contact with the emission surface of the transducer.

[0232] It is possible for the handpiece to comprise just one single pump which circulates the fluid in the treatment zone and returns it to a reservoir intended to recover the used fluid.

Claims

Claims1. System for treating human keratinous material, notably the skin and / or the hair, comprising a handpiece (2) comprising:- a treatment head (5) to be placed in contact with the keratinous material that is to be treated, defining at least one treatment zone,- at least one circuit (6) for the circulation of a fluid, notably a cosmetic composition (C) used in the treatment,- at least one ultrasound transducer (13) for emitting acoustic waves at least into the fluid present in the treatment zone, the system further comprising:- at least one detector (20) of movement and / or orientation of the handpiece (2) relative to the keratinous material that is to be treated and / or relative to a predefined reference axis, notably the vertical,- at least one control unit (19) with which the detector or detectors (20) communicate, the control unit being designed to act on the operation of the handpiece on the basis of at least one item of information originating from the detector or detectors.

2. System according to Claim 1, the transducer (13) being operated by the control unit (19).

3. System according to one of Claims 1 and 2, the handpiece (2) comprising at least one reservoir (7) for containing the fluid used in the treatment.

4. System according to the preceding claim, the handpiece (2) comprising at least one electric pump (11) for circulating the fluid between the reservoir or reservoirs (7) and the keratinous material that is to be treated, the pump (11) being operated by the control unit (19), the control unit (19) preferably being designed to act on the pump (11) in order to reduce or to increase the flow rate of the fluid in the fluid circulation circuit (6) on the basis of the data originating from the detector (20).

5. System according to any one of the preceding claims, the detector (20) being internal to the handpiece (2).

6. System according to any one of the preceding claims, the detector (20) being selected from inclinometers, notably of the type involving a conductive liquid droplet or a ball, or accelerometers, notably MEMS.

7. System according to any one of the preceding claims, the detector (20) comprising a gyroscope.

8. System according to any one of the preceding claims, the detector (20) being sensitive to the magnetic field.

9. System according to any one of the preceding claims, the detector (20) being external to the handpiece (2), said system (20) preferably comprising a camera designed to observe the handpiece (2), and processing means for determining, at least on the basis of the signal delivered by the camera, the movement, the position and / or the orientation of the handpiece (2) relative to the keratinous material that is to be treated and / or relative to said reference axis, said detector (20) being notably connected to the control unit (19) via a wireless connection.

10. System according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a support (3) designed to receive the handpiece (2) when the system (1) is not being used for treating keratinous material, this support (3) being notably designed to electrically power the handpiece (2) when the latter is received in the support (3), the detector (20) preferably being designed to detect the presence of the handpiece (2) on the support (3).

11. System according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising an audio output (15) designed to deliver information audible to the user and connected to the control unit (19), the information delivered by the audio output (15) preferably being instructions for moving, positioning and / or orientating the handpiece (2) in response to data originating from the detector (20).

12. System according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a luminous indicator (173) and / or a display screen (171) which are designed to deliverinformation visible to the user, for example a flashing light or a text, the luminous indicator (173) and / or the display screen (171) being connected to the control unit (19), the information delivered preferably being instructions for moving, positioning and / or orientating the handpiece (2) in response to data originating from the detector (20).

13. System according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a haptic device designed to interact mechanically with the user, notably by the vibrating, in order to deliver information to said user, the haptic device being connected to the control unit (19), the information delivered by the device preferably being instructions for moving, positioning and / or orientating the handpiece (2) in response to data originating from the detector (20).

14. System according to any one of the preceding claims, the handpiece (2) comprising a solenoid valve connected to the control unit (19), the latter being designed to operate the solenoid valve on the basis of data from the detector (20) so as to reduce or increase the flow rate of the fluid in the fluid circulation circuit (6).

15. System according to any one of the preceding claims, the handpiece comprising a handle and the detector being an accelerometer, the accelerometer being positioned in the handle of the handpiece.

16. System according to any one of the preceding claims, the detector being a ball-type inclinometer, the ball-type inclinometer being positioned in the handpiece in such a way that it is as close as possible to the axis of rotation of the wrist of the user.

17. Method for the cosmetic treatment of keratinous material by means of a system (1) as defined in any one of the preceding claims, this method involving exposing at least a zone of the keratinous material to ultrasound emitted by the transducer (13).

18. Treatment method according to the preceding claim, involving moving the handpiece (2) vertically from top to bottom in said zone.

19. Treatment method according to the preceding claim, the longitudinal axis (O) of the handpiece (2) being inclined, during the vertical movement thereof, withrespect to the vertical (V) by an angle a less than or equal to 45° towards the front or the rear of the handpiece and / or by an angle P less than or equal to 45° to the side of the handpiece.

20. Method for controlling the operation of a system as defined in any one of Claims 2 to 16, comprising:(a) the detection of the movement of the handpiece and / or the orientation of the handpiece, by the detector (20),(b) the transmission of the detection information obtained in step (a) to the control unit (19),(c) the sending of at least one instruction based on the detection information, from the control unit (19) to the pump (11) and / or to the transducer (13) and / or to the solenoid valve and / or to the user interface (15; 17; 171; 173).

21. Method for controlling the operation according to the preceding claim, the instruction sent to the pump (11) being to stop, to start, or to modify its flow rate, and / or the instruction sent to the transducer (13) being to stop, to start, or to modify the power of the acoustic waves it emits, and / or the instruction sent to the solenoid valve being the degree to which it is open, and / or the instruction sent to the user interface (15; 17; 171; 173) being to emit an audible beep or phrase announcing a succinct mode of use of the system, and / or to establish a flashing light and / or coloured illumination in a predefined colour and / or to display a message indicating a succinct mode of use of the system, and / or to vibrate.

Images