PORTABLE HAIRDRESSING DEVICE WITH ELECTROLUMINESCENT DIODES INTEGRATED INTO HAIR OR TEETH

Abstract

Portable Hair Styling Device with Light-Emitting Diodes Integrated into Hair or Teeth. The invention relates to a hair and scalp treatment device (100) comprising a dispenser connected to a cartridge (102), wherein the cartridge contains a formulation; a plurality of tips (602, 702) on the device, wherein the tips have at least one opening for dispensing the formulation and at least one LED emitting light in the visible color spectrum, wherein the at least one LED is located at the tip of the tips; and a control device configured to individually turn the LEDs of the plurality of tips on and off. Figure for abstract: Figure 1

Description

Title of the invention: PORTABLE HAIRDRESSING DEVICE WITH LIGHT-EMITTING DIODES INTEGRATED INTO THE HAIR OR TEETH Summary

[0001] In one embodiment, a brush or comb hair and scalp treatment device has controllable LEDs that emit light in the visible color spectrum, or a UV (ultraviolet) or IR (infrared) LED or both UV and IR integrated into bristle or tooth tips for targeted treatments and display of information or pleasing visuals.

[0002] In one embodiment, the device may activate LEDs of different wavelengths to be used for various hair and scalp treatment applications and curing and treating various hair and scalp formulas or serums.

[0003] In one embodiment, the scalp and hair treatment device increases the effectiveness of such treatments by placing the active light components in the region(s) of the device that make contact with, or come closest to, the targeted skin, scalp, or hair root regions.

[0004] In one embodiment, the ability to produce different colors from emitters arranged in rows and columns with the tips is used to display detailed device information, such as charge status, operating mode, cartridge fill level, or pleasing visuals by creating an RGB pixel-like display.

[0005] In one embodiment, electrically conductive wiring is routed through hollow bristle tips. Alternatively, the bristle tips are comprised of conductive spring-like coils. These conductive paths lead to visible color spectrum LEDs and UV and IR LEDs (light emitting diodes) housed within the tips. The components are encapsulated and sealed with a transparent cap. The LEDs are controlled via signals along these conductive paths. These signals are driven by a driver circuit housed within the main body of the device.

[0006] In one embodiment, the device folds on itself. When the device is in the folded configuration, the LEDs are positioned behind a diffuser, and the visuals created by the LEDs can be made more recognizable, as the visual gaps between the LEDs and the tips can be filled by the diffuser material.

[0007] In one embodiment, a brush or comb hair and scalp treatment device has controllable electromagnetic energy emitters configured to emit light in the visible color spectrum, or a UV (ultraviolet) or IR (infrared) LED or both UV and IR. Non-limiting examples of electromagnetic energy emitters include arc flash lamps, continuous wave bulbs, incandescent emitters, laser diodes, light emitting diodes (e.g., high efficiency UV light emitting diodes, microcavity light emitting diodes, organic light emitting diodes, polymer light emitting diodes, polymer phosphor light emitting diodes, or the like), optical energy emitters, quantum dots, or the like.

[0008] This summary is provided to present a selection of concepts in simplified form which are further described below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify key features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter. Description of the drawings

[0009] The foregoing aspects and many of the associated advantages of this invention will be more readily appreciated upon a better understanding thereof with reference to the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0010] [Fig. 1] [Fig. 1] is a graphical illustration of a device for processing hair and scalp;

[0011] [Fig.2] [Fig.2] is a graphical illustration of the front of the treatment device of hair and scalp of [Fig.l] in the open (unfolded) configuration;

[0012] [Fig.3] [Fig.3] is a graphical illustration of the front of the treatment device of hair and scalp of [Fig.l] in the closed (folded) configuration;

[0013] [Fig.4] [Fig.4] is a graphic illustration of a tip using a construction half-cylinder for brush and comb embodiments;

[0014] [Fig.5] [Fig.5] is a graphic illustration of a tip using a cylinder complete in a cylinder construction for brush and comb embodiments;

[0015] [Fig.6] [Fig.6] is a graphic illustration of a tip with LEDs of half-cylinder construction for brush and comb embodiments;

[0016] [Fig.7] [Fig.7] is a graphic illustration of a tip with LEDs of complete cylinder in a cylinder construction for brush and comb embodiments;

[0017] [Fig.8] [Fig.8] is a schematic illustration showing the components of a embodiment of a hair and scalp treatment device;

[0018] [Fig.9] [Fig.9] is a schematic illustration showing individual tip ends that are controlled to dispense a formulation in circular and linear patterns;

[0019] [Fig. 10] [Fig. 10] is a schematic illustration showing an individual tip having at least one LED that emits light in the visible color spectrum and at least one UV or IR LED;

[0020] [Fig. 11] [Fig. 11] is a schematic illustration showing individual tip ends with LEDs that emit light in the visible color spectrum that are individually controlled to illuminate; and

[0021] [Fig. 12] [Fig. 12] is an embodiment of a tip constructed of spring-like coils with conductive wiring. Detailed description

[0022] Individuals are washing their hair with traditional water-based wet shampoo less and less frequently. A number of reasons can be proposed for the reduction in this type of shampooing, such as preventing hair loss or hair damage or saving time and energy. Dry shampoos are on the rise. People are trying to extend the time between salon visits to save money, leading to a growing interest in tinted dry shampoos for root touch-ups. Dry shampoos are primarily packaged in spray bottles. However, spray bottles create concerns about inhaling the product and inadvertently spraying the face, especially the eyes. Spray bottles are inaccurate in both spray direction and spray amount.Additionally, spray bottles are not suitable for travel or use in public restrooms. Dry shampoos do not cleanse the scalp and can actually damage it. However, it is believed that taking care of the scalp leads to healthy hair. “Dry” methods of scalp cleansing involve either brushing or smoothing to spread oils through the hair. Scalp treatment and scalp formulas can be applied via droppers, mousses, or powders, and require manually parting the hair. Powders and mousses end up on the hands. Applying too much product to the scalp can create runoff and hair that looks greasy. A closed-loop, reusable product design is a growing demand.

[0023] Disclosed herein is a brush or scalp hair treatment device comb with controllable electromagnetic energy emitters configured to emit light in the visible color spectrum, or a UV (ultraviolet) or IR (infrared) LED or both UV and IR. Non-limiting examples of electromagnetic energy emitters include arc flash lamps, continuous wave light bulbs, incandescent emitters, laser diodes, light emitting diodes (e.g., high efficiency UV light emitting diodes, microcavity light emitting diodes, organic light emitting diodes, polymer light emitting diodes, polymer phosphor light emitting diodes, or the like), optical energy emitters, quantum dots, or the like.

[0024] Referring to Figures 1-3, a hair and scalp treatment device 100 includes controllable LEDs incorporated into brush tips 602, 702, 1100, 1200 for targeted treatments and displaying information or pleasing visuals. Although the illustrations depict a brush embodiment, the tips may be arranged in a comb embodiment, i.e., in a single row of tips.

[0025] In one embodiment, the device 100 selects the activation of LEDs of different wavelengths for various hair and scalp treatment applications and for curing and treating various hair and scalp formulas or serums. The device 100 can control the rate at which the LEDs are activated and deactivated and the brightness and intensity of each LED at its respective wavelength.

[0026] In one embodiment, the scalp and hair treatment device 100 increases the effectiveness of these treatments by placing the active light components in the region(s) of the device 100 that make contact with or come closest to the targeted skin, scalp, or hair root regions. In one embodiment, the active light components are placed at the tips of the hair.

[0027] In one embodiment, the scalp and hair treatment device 100 uses LEDs that emit light in the visible color spectrum to create different colors at the tips. The visible color light LED emitters placed on the tips that are arranged in rows and columns are used to display detailed device information, such as a charging status, an operating mode, a cartridge level, or pleasing visuals by creating an RGB pixel-like display. The LEDs RGB (red-green-blue) are used as a representative example of LEDs that emit light in the visible color spectrum to demonstrate aspects of the disclosure, and other LEDs emitting light in the color spectrum visible can be used instead of RGB LEDs.

[0028] In one embodiment, electrically conductive wiring is routed through hollow bristle tips. Alternatively, bristle tips may be made of conductive spring-like coils. These conductive paths lead to visible light spectrum LEDs and UV and IR LEDs (light emitting diodes) housed in the tips. The components are encapsulated and sealed with a transparent cap. The LEDs are controlled via signals along these conductive paths. These signals are driven by a driver circuit housed in the main body of the device 100.

[0029] In one embodiment, the device 100 folds upon itself. When the device 100 is in the folded configuration, the LEDs are positioned behind a diffuser, and the visuals created by the LEDs can be made more recognizable, as the visual gaps between the LEDs and the tips can be filled by the diffuser material.

[0030] Referring to Figures 1-3, in one embodiment, the device 100 includes a handle 104 connected to a substantially cylindrical section 138. The section 138 may be of circular cross-section or have any other shape, such as oblong, rectangular, square, or a combination of shapes. The handle 104 is connected to the device 100 at an obtuse angle relative to the front end of the device 100. The handle 104 helps balance the weight of the device for more comfortable use and easier control. Control buttons may also be located on the handle.

[0031] In one embodiment, the device 100 includes a body structure that has a substantially cylindrical section 138 from the rear end, where a cartridge 102 is installed, to the front end having a brush head 140. In one embodiment, the handle 104 connects to the rear side of the cylindrical section 138.

[0032] The brush head 140 is the portion of the device 100 that has the tips 602, 702, 1100, or 1200. In one embodiment, the device 100 has the tips 602, 702, 1100, 1200 arranged in a brush configuration, such as concentric circles. In one embodiment, the tips are also configured to allow control of the dispensing of formulations from selected individual tips and not from others. This allows some tips to be "turned on" while leaving other tips "turned off" to create different spray patterns from the brush head 140. Similarly, for the visible color spectrum and UV and IR LEDs, the LEDs at the tips are turned on and off individually, so that some tips can illuminate with color and other tips are not illuminated.

[0033] In one embodiment, the handle 104 is connected to the cylindrical section 138 via a swivel connection. In this way, the cylindrical section 138 can fold inside the handle 104 when not in use.

[0034] In [Fig.l], the device 100 is illustrated showing the cylindrical section 138 with a brush head 140 on the end in the unfolded position which renders the device operational. In [Fig.2], the device 100 is illustrated from the front showing that the device may have a cavity 142 within the handle 104. In [Fig.3], the device 100 is illustrated with the cylindrical section 138 and the brush head 140 in the folded position with the cylindrical section 138 and the brush head 140 moving back into the handle 104 and coming to rest within the cavity 142.

[0035] In one embodiment, in the folded position, the tips 602, 702, 1100, 1200 are positioned near a diffuser material 136. The diffuser material 136 is located at the end of the handle 104, and the diffuser material 136 has an exterior surface so as to be visible to someone from the outside, i.e., visible when looking along the end of the handle 104. The tips are oriented in the direction of the diffuser material 136. The diffuser material 136 is completely transparent to light or is translucent or has a degree of opacity, but is not completely opaque, to allow some of the light emitted by the tips to be visible from outside the diffuser material 136. In one embodiment, the diffuser material 136 produces softer light by scattering the emitted light to fill the spacing between the points.

[0036] In one embodiment, the device 100 includes a housing that accepts a removable cartridge 102 containing a hair or scalp treatment formulation. The device 100 allows cartridges 102 to be easily exchanged to provide different formulations. The cartridge 102 may be configured to be a refillable cartridge or a disposable cartridge. In one embodiment, the device 100 may be configured to have more than one cartridge 102, wherein each cartridge may be filled with a different formulation for a different treatment. Alternatively, some applications may use two or more different formulations that require applying both formulations to achieve the intended treatment.

[0037] In one embodiment, the tips 602, 702, 1100, 1200 are configured to be capable of dispensing two different formulations. In one embodiment, the tips 602, 702, 1100, 1200 have hollow chambers that extend the entire length of the tips. The tips 602, 702, 1100, 1200 have a length of at least one diameter. However, the tips 602, 702, 1100, 1200 may be constructed to have a length of multiple diameters, such that the width-to-length ratio may vary from 1 to 1 to 1 to 20 or more. The tips 602, 702, 1100, 1200 may be flexible or non-flexible. The 602, 702, 1100, 1200 tips can also be flexibly connected to the brush head 140. The isolated chambers in the tips allow one or more formulations to be delivered through each chamber without mixing. The formulations may be isolated within the respective chambers until such time as the formulations exit the chambers. Dispensing of formulations may be accomplished by constructing each of the chambers with openings along the length or only at the ends or both along the length and at the ends of the chambers. Further, each of the chambers in the tips may have a valve or other means to control dispensing from only one chamber or from both chambers. Controlling dispensing of formulations from only certain tips on the brush head 140 allows for the creation of multiple dispensing patterns, e.g., a cone spray, a fan spray, and the like.

[0038] In one embodiment, the chambers are shown as half-cylinders and full cylinders, but the chambers may take any cross-sectional shape. Additionally, in one embodiment, the tips 602, 702, 1100, 1200 and the first and second hollow chambers forming them may be electrically conductive so as to be configured as positive and negative terminals to further provide microcurrents to the scalp and hair. Furthermore, the conductive tips 602, 702, 1100, 1200 have other uses when the first and second hollow chambers are connected to a positive and negative terminal of a power supply or the first and second hollow chambers are connected to a positive and negative pickup terminal.

[0039] In one embodiment, the tips 602, 702, 1100, 1200 need not be conductive, but the multiple barrel construction may still be useful if the application involves mixing of formulations or dispensing of formulations and suction to a small, controlled target area on the scalp.

[0040] Referring to [Fig. 4], in one embodiment, the tip 602 is constructed as joining a first hollow half-cylinder 604 to a second hollow half-cylinder 606 along the length direction. The first 604 and second 606 half-cylinders may be made from an electrically conductive material. In one embodiment, the first 604 and second 606 half-cylinders are separated by an electrical insulator 608. Here, although the overall shape of the tip 602 is a "cylinder", according to this disclosure the tip 602 may have any cross-sectional shape, including an oblong, rectangular, square, or any other polygon.

[0041] In one embodiment, the first hollow half-cylinder 604 and the second hollow half-cylinder 606 are made from a conductive material such as metal. In one embodiment, one of the first 604 or second 606 half-cylinders may be designated as a positive conductor terminal and the other half-cylinder will be designated as a negative conductor terminal.

[0042] In one embodiment, the first 604 and second 606 hollow chambers are fabricated from, or may be integrated with, a shape memory or piezoelectric material, which material may be actuated by an electric current to control a direction of movement of the tips 602. In one embodiment, the chambers in a dual-chamber construction may be fabricated from, or integrate with, shape memory or piezoelectric materials, which materials actuate in opposite directions to each other, allowing more and / or less actuation about a central position depending on which chamber is activated. These materials may exist as polymers, ceramics, and alloys, for example. In one embodiment, the shape memory and piezoelectric materials may be formed as coils, and need not necessarily be hollow chambers.The coils can be effective in actuating the tips vertically along the Z axis (i.e., in the axial direction of the coil). Electrical actuation of shape memory and piezoelectric materials is achieved via an AC or DC power source having a positive and negative terminal connected to the shape memory or piezoelectric material.

[0043] [Fig. 4] further illustrates that the tips 602 may have openings 904 on the outer circumference. The hollow half-cylinder 604 has first openings 904 along a length of the exterior, and the hollow half-cylinder 606 has second openings 906 along a length of the exterior. In one embodiment, the openings 904, 906 may be made by laser cutting holes (perforations) along the length of the tip 602.

[0044] In one embodiment, the tips 602 may omit openings along the length of the tips, and the tips 602 are provided with openings only at the very tips so as to use the tips 602 for scalp treatment. In this way, two different formulations may be delivered from the tips 602 via the half-cylinder 604 and the half-cylinder 606.

[0045] In one embodiment, the end of the tips 602 comprises a perforated flat or domed disc having small openings 610 in the first half-cylinder 604 and openings 612 in the second half-cylinder 606. In one embodiment, instead of a disc, the half-cylinders 604 and 606 may be fully open at the end. Either construction allows formulation to be dispensed from ends or along the length of the tips 602 or both along the length and from the ends of the tips 602.

[0046] Referring to [Fig.5], in one embodiment, the tip 702 is constructed by inserting a first hollow cylinder 704 of small diameter into a second hollow cylinder 706 of larger diameter. In one embodiment, the first cylinder 704 is coaxial with the second cylinder 706. The first cylinder 704 may be referred to as the inner cylinder and the second cylinder 706 may be referred to as the outer cylinder. Here, although the tip 702 is shaped like a "cylinder," according to this disclosure, a tip may have any cross-sectional shape, including an oblong, rectangular, square, or any other polygon.

[0047] In one embodiment, the first cylinder 704 and the second cylinder 706 are made from a conductive material such as metal. In one embodiment, the exterior of the smaller first cylinder 704 may be coated with an insulator. An insulator is optional if the first 704 and second 706 cylinders cannot be electrically isolated from each other. In one embodiment, one of the first 704 or second 706 cylinder will be designated as a positive conductor terminal and the other cylinder will be designated as a negative conductor terminal.

[0048] In one embodiment, the first 704 and second 706 hollow chambers are fabricated from, or may be integrated with, a shape memory or piezoelectric material, which material may be actuated by an electric current to control a direction of movement of the tips 702. In one embodiment, the chambers in a dual-chamber construction may be fabricated from, or integrate with, shape memory or piezoelectric materials, which materials actuate in opposite directions to each other, allowing more and / or less actuation about a central position depending on which chamber is activated. These materials may exist as polymers, ceramics, and alloys, for example. In one embodiment, the shape memory and piezoelectric materials may be formed as coils, and need not necessarily be hollow chambers.The coils can be effective in actuating the tips vertically along the Z axis (i.e., in the axial direction of the coil). Electrical actuation of shape memory and piezoelectric materials is achieved via an AC or DC power source having a positive and negative terminal connected to the shape memory or piezoelectric material.

[0049] In [Fig. 5], the inner cylinder 704 has first openings 1004 that appear on the exterior of the outer cylinder 706; however, openings 1004 may be connected by passing through the outer cylinder 706, such that the openings are closed from the outer cylinder 706, for example, by tubes that lead to the inner cylinder 704. The outer cylinder 706 has second openings 1006 along a length of the exterior, wherein openings 1006 connect only to the interior of the outer cylinder 706. In one embodiment, the inner cylinder 704 and the outer cylinder 706 are not coaxial with each other, but, the inner cylinder 704 may be placed against the inner wall of the outer cylinder 706, thus, the openings of the inner cylinder 704 may only having to pass through the wall of the outer cylinder 706, thus avoiding the need to connect openings via tubes. An insulator may have to be interposed between the inner 704 and outer 706 cylinders for electrical insulation. In either construction, two different formulations may be delivered from the tips 702 via the inner 704 and outer 706 cylinders. In one embodiment, the openings 1004, 1006 may be made by laser cutting holes (perforations) along the length of the tip 702.

[0050] In one embodiment, the end of the tips 702 comprises a perforated flat or domed disc having small openings 710 in the first inner cylinder 704 and openings 708 in the second outer cylinder 706. In one embodiment, instead of a disc, the inner and outer cylinders 704 and 706 may be fully open at the end. Either construction allows formulation to be dispensed from ends or along the length of the tips 702 or both along the length and from ends of the tips.

[0051] In one embodiment, when the tips 602 and 702 are made from conductive materials, one of the cylinders 604 or 606 and 704 or 706 of each of the tips 602 and 702 may serve as a positive terminal and the other may serve as a negative terminal for conducting electrical charges. This allows devices, such as LEDs or sensors, to be powered.

[0052] [Fig. 6] illustrates a tip 1100, similar in construction to tip 602, fabricated from a first electrically conductive hollow half-cylinder 1104 positioned side by side with, but electrically insulated from, a second electrically conductive hollow half-cylinder 1106, wherein the first half-cylinder 1104 is designated as a positive or negative terminal, and the second half-cylinder 1106 is the terminal of opposite polarity to that of the first half-cylinder 1104. An electrically insulating material or coating may be added between the first 1104 and second 1106 hollow half-cylinders for electrical insulation. A power source is connected to the first 1104 and second 1106 half-cylinders.In one embodiment, this allows one or more light emitting diodes 1102 to be placed at the tip end or other locations which is energized by the two half-cylinders serving as terminals being in contact with the positive and negative terminals.

[0053] [Fig. 7] illustrates a tip 1200, similar in construction to tip 702, fabricated from a first electrically conductive hollow inner cylinder 1204 positioned within or coaxially within a second electrically conductive hollow outer cylinder 1206, wherein the first inner cylinder 1204 is a positive or negative terminal, and the second outer cylinder 1106 is the terminal of opposite polarity to that of the first cylinder 1204. An electrically insulating material or coating may be added between the first 1204 and second 1206 hollow cylinders for a electrical insulation. A power source is connected to the first inner cylinder 1204 and the second outer cylinder 1206. In one embodiment, this allows one or more light-emitting diodes 1202 to be placed at the tip end or other locations which is energized by the two cylinders serving as terminals by being in contact with the positive and negative terminals.

[0054] In one embodiment, depending on the power of the LEDs 1102 and 1202, heat dissipation may be absorbed (thermally dissipated) by the conductive material of the cylinders 1104, 1106, 1204, and 1206.

[0055] In one embodiment, when the LEDs 1102 and 1202 are placed at the end of the tips, the LEDs may deliver more energy to the scalp than when they are placed at the base of the tips or when the LED light is delivered through a long fiber optic path.

[0056] In one embodiment, LEDs 1102 and 1202 may be used for processing, formula curing, or device status indication (i.e., operational mode or charging status).

[0057] The LEDs may be any type of a single wavelength (laser LED) or a range of wavelengths. In one embodiment, phototherapy has been used on the scalp to treat a skin condition. In one embodiment, phototherapy has been used to stimulate hair follicle cells. The intensity of the light produced by the LEDs 1102, 1202 may be varied by controlling the current, for example.

[0058] In one embodiment, LEDs 1102, 1202 include one or more Group III-V (GaAs) based LEDs that are capable of emitting electromagnetic radiation at wavelengths in a range from green visible light to near infrared. In one embodiment, LEDs 1102, 1202 include one or more Group III nitride blue LED semiconductor emitters that are capable of emitting electromagnetic radiation at wavelengths in a range from ultraviolet to blue visible light.

[0059] In one embodiment, the wavelength output of LEDs 1102, 1202 includes one or more gallium-indium-nitrogen (GalnN) LEDs that have a wavelength output of about 360 to 370 nm. In other embodiments, LEDs 1102, 1202 emit electromagnetic energy in a wavelength range of about 200 nm to about 2000 nm, which includes wavelengths in the ultraviolet (about 350 nm) and near infrared (about 1200 nm) range.

[0060] Referring to [Fig. 10], an embodiment of an LED arrangement 200 that can be used with tips 602, 702 is illustrated. When the tips 602, 702 are installed with LEDs as illustrated in [Fig. 10], the tips 602, 702 may omit dispensing apertures on the tip. In one embodiment, the tips 602, 702, include at least one visible color spectrum LED, such as an RGB (red-green-blue) LED 202 and / or at least one UV or IR LED 204 or both UV and IR. Although RGB LEDs are used as a representative example to demonstrate aspects of the disclosure, other LEDs emitting light in the visible color spectrum may be used in place of the RGB LED 202. The visible color spectrum of the electromagnetic radiation spectrum is generally considered to be from 380 nm (violet) to about 740 nm (red).

[0061] In one embodiment, the RGB LEDs produce three nominal wavelengths that are selected to maximize the range of perceived colors by varying their intensities. An RGB LED 202 may include three LEDs, one each for red, green, and blue, in a package. In one embodiment, the red light has a wavelength of about 620 to 750 nm, the green light has a wavelength of about 495 to 570 nm, and the blue light has a wavelength of about 450 to 495 nm. In one embodiment, the RGB LED 202 includes wiring for a common cathode and three anodes, one each for red, green, and blue LEDs. In one embodiment, the RGB LED 202 includes wiring for a common anode and three cathodes. [Fig. 12] is an illustration of one embodiment of a tip 1300 with the LED construction 200 at the tip. The tip 1300 may be used in place of the tip constructions 602 and 702.In one embodiment, the tip 1300 is constructed in spring-like coils with multiple (four) conductive wirings 1302, 1304, 1306, 1308 to drive an RGB LED 202, for example. In one embodiment, the voltage of each of the red, green, and blue LEDs is independently modulated to activate and vary the intensity of one or more of the LEDs in the RGB LED 202. The red, green, and blue LEDs are used to produce any color that is a combination of two or more colors.

[0062] In one embodiment, the RGB and UV or IR LEDs 202, 204 are potted and sealed with a light-transparent cap 208, such as epoxy. The LEDs 202 and 204 are driven via signals along conductive wiring paths 206 and 210, such as the cylinders themselves or dedicated wiring since the RGB LED requires separate signals for each of the red, green, and blue LEDs. The signals to power up the LEDs 202 and 204 are driven by a light driver circuit housed in the main body of the device.

[0063] Referring to [Fig.8], the device 100 is shown schematically to illustrate the main systems.

[0064] In one embodiment, the device 100 includes a power supply 128. The device 100 may be powered by alternating current (AC) or direct current (DC). In one embodiment, the device 100 is powered by common household AC power that uses an electrical cord (not shown) to power the device 100. In one embodiment, the device 100 is powered by DC power, such as a rechargeable battery that can be charged by being plugged into a household AC outlet. A DC-powered device 100 allows the device to be used without remaining or standing near an electrical outlet.The power supply 128 is configured to provide power to any of the systems requiring power, such as a controller 148, a dispenser 112, a light module 152, a vacuum motor 114, a camera 160, LEDs 1102, 1202, and to the tips 602, 702, 1100, and 1200.

[0065] In one embodiment, the device 100 includes a formulation dispenser 112. In one embodiment, the formulation is stored in the replaceable or refillable cartridge 102. The cartridges 102 may be removable from the device 100 either to be refilled or to be discarded and replaced with a new, full cartridge. Once empty, a cartridge 102 may be replaced with a new cartridge filled with the same or a different formulation, or the cartridge may be refilled with the same or a different formulation. As seen in [Fig.l], the cartridge 102 is inserted through the rear of the device 100. The cartridge 102 is connected to deliver the scalp or hair formulation to the dispenser 112.In one embodiment, the device 100 may have multiple cartridges, wherein each cartridge is filled with a different formulation, which may be dispensed to perform different treatments and to different regions of the scalp and hair.

[0066] In one embodiment, the cartridge 102 has a product identification tag that can convey instructions for operation of the device 100 based on the specific formulation contained in the cartridge 102. The device 100 may include a product identification tag reader capable of reading the product identification tag and processing the encoded signals into instructions for operation and control of the device based on the particular formulation. Product identification tags include, for example, barcodes, 2D barcodes, RFID, and the like. The product identification tag is encoded with machine-readable signals that convey the device settings for the particular formulation. Different formulations may have different device settings. For example, product identification labels may include a dispenser setting of a liquid to fine, medium, or coarse droplets. Product identification labels may also include dispenser pattern formation, such as flat fan versus cone, wide versus narrow, solid versus hollow, stream versus mist. Product identification labels may also contain instructions for operating the LEDs 202, 204, 1102, 1202. Different formulations may also be used to treat different regions of the scalp and hair. Different formulations may also be used to provide different treatments to the scalp and hair.

[0067] The dispenser 112 may dispense one or more formulations through the tips 602, 702, 1100, 1200 as a fine mist or liquid or any form in between. In one embodiment, the dispenser 112 includes a compressor, a pump, or an ultrasonic wave generator to generate a mist from the formulation. In the case of a pump or compressor dispenser 112, this dispenser 112 causes air or the formulation to flow at a high velocity, which propels the formulation through fine openings. In the case of a pump or compressor dispenser, a single dispenser 112 may be placed in the device 100. Then, the discharge from a compressor or pump dispenser 112 is routed through a conduit system to each of the individual tips.

[0068] In one embodiment, the dispenser 112 is an ultrasonic wave nebulizer that generates a mist or vapor to dispense the formulation through individual tips. This has the advantage of smooth dispersion of the formulation to reduce the amount of waste and improve coverage control. In one embodiment, the nebulizer uses an ultrasonic wave generator that is in contact with the formulation where the frequency of the ultrasonic waves is sufficient to produce the mist. An ultrasonic wave nebulizer also includes a "sieve" nebulizer that has a vibrating sieve just touching the surface of the formulation to create the mist. Either form of ultrasonic wave nebulizer may use a piezoelectric element.

[0069] In one embodiment, the ultrasonic wave generator and the vibrating mesh nebulizer may both use a piezoelectric material to generate vibrations in the ultrasonic frequencies. In one embodiment, the same piezoelectric material that is used in the nebulizer may also be used to drive a haptic system. A haptic system may include a massage therapy system, but may also include any system that provides a sensory experience, such as associated heating and ultrasound therapies. Ne- Nebulizers may utilize the generation of frequencies in excess of 1 MHz. A nebulizer capable of producing frequencies in excess of 1 MHz may also be used to drive a haptic system to generate heat that may be used to treat the skin and scalp either alone or in conjunction with formulation delivery. Some nebulizers may also utilize ultrasound frequencies below 1 MHz. In one embodiment, the nebulizer may be used to drive a haptic system to generate frequencies in a range designed to deliver therapeutic compounds to the skin and scalp in conjunction with formulation delivery. Therefore, there are advantages when the same piezoelectric material that is used in the nebulizer system is used in a haptic system.

[0070] In one embodiment, each of the tips may have a valve at the inlet of one or both chambers. The valve has an actuator that opens and closes the valve. Each valve of each tip may be operated to open or close independently of other valves of other tips, by opening or closing the valve at each individual tip, the formulation may be controlled to flow only out of selected tips in a controlled pattern, such as a cone, a flat fan, a stream, multiple streams, in pulses, and the like. Further, having a valve to control dispensing from both chambers of a tip allows formulations to be controlled to flow out of one or both of the chambers.

[0071] [Fig. 9] is a schematic illustration showing the tips of the tips 602, 702, 1100, 1200. "Tips" may be used to refer to the direction orthogonal to the length of the tips, and may also mean being near the orthogonal direction, such as along the length near the orthogonal direction. In one embodiment, the tips are arranged in a circular pattern of increasing diameter of small 908, medium 910, and large 912 diameters. In one embodiment, only the tip valves connected by one of the circles 908, 910, or 912 may be opened, resulting in dispensing the formulation in a small cone 908, a medium cone 910, and a large cone 912, to cover small, medium, and large areas of the scalp or hair.A controller is instructed to open the tips that are in a pattern to dispense the formulation according to the pattern and closes the tips that are not in the pattern. Actuation of individual tip valves is not limited to only circular patterns. In one embodiment, the tip valves may be actuated in a linear pattern. A line 914 connects only the tips that would be opened to dispense a formulation in a fan pattern, while the remaining tips not in the linear pattern would remain closed. Any . A combination of individual tips can be selected to dispense a formulation only from some tips, but not others, to achieve distinct patterns.

[0072] In one embodiment, dispenser 112 operates by depressing switch 106. In one embodiment, switch 106 is a momentary switch, with the default position being the off position. A momentary switch only needs one activation, regardless of the length of the activation, to dispense a measured amount of formulation. Leaving a momentary switch 106 depressed for a longer period does not dispense more formulation beyond the pre-measurement amount. In another embodiment, switch 106 is an on / off switch that starts and stops dispenser 112 based on the opening and closing of the switch.

[0073] In one embodiment, the valves on the tips 602, 702, 1100, and 1200 are only actuated if the individual tip that is selected for dispensing is in contact with the skin. In one embodiment, the tips 602, 702, 1100, and 1200 are made from conductive materials that allow the tips to act as contact sensors. In one embodiment, one of the barrels of each of the tips 602, 702, 1100, and 1200 may act as a positive terminal, while a second barrel of the same or a different tip acts as a negative terminal. In one embodiment, an impedance may be measured between any positive terminal of a tip and any negative terminal of a tip to determine whether one or more individual tips are in contact with the scalp (skin).In one embodiment, impedance may be measured between any positive terminal and the scalp (via a conductive return path to the handle). Determining impedance and contact is useful if the application requires contact with the scalp; for example, in a formula treatment and suction system, where the scalp is being treated and suction may pull in hair if the device is not operating directly on the scalp.

[0074] In one embodiment, the impedance measurement may also be used to calculate a scalp hydration level at a specific point or over a more general region. In one embodiment, the impedance may be measured from different tips to determine a scalp hydration level across broader regions.

[0075] In one embodiment, a contact sensor 162 may be placed at the tip ends. In one embodiment, the contact sensor 162 includes open or short circuit detectors or dielectric sensors. An open detector may refer to an open circuit detector for detecting broken (open) continuity in an electrical transmission. A short circuit detector may refer to the detection of low electrical resistance. A dielectric sensor is also referred to as a capacitance detector that can detect a change in dielectric permittivity. In one embodiment, the contact sensor 162 may be a sensor that detects contact or lack of contact of an individual tip. In one embodiment, the contact sensor 162 may indicate the amount of contact. An example of a contact sensor that can detect an amount of contact is a piezoelectric sensor.

[0076] In one embodiment, the device 100 includes a light module 152. The light module 152 has circuitry configured to control the LEDs 202, 204, 1102, 1102 at the tips of the tips. In one embodiment, the light module 152 has circuitry configured to control which LEDs are turned on and off, the rate at which they are turned on and off, and the brightness and / or intensity of each LED at its respective wavelength. The circuitry of the light module 152 may be included within the controller 148 or be separate from the controller. Particularly, with reference to the RGB LEDs 202, the light module 152 has circuitry configured to control the turning on and off and varying the intensity of red light, green light, and blue light emitted from each of the RGB LEDs 202.By activating and dimming the individual red, green and blue LEDs of the RGB LED 202, many different colors can be produced individually from the tips, where some tips can be illuminated to produce a certain color and other tips are illuminated differently.

[0077] [Fig. 11] illustrates a view of the tips of tips 602, 702, in which each of the tips is provided with an RGB LED 202 at the tip. “Tips” can be used to refer to the direction orthogonal to the length of the tips, and can also mean being near the orthogonal direction, such as along the length near the orthogonal direction. In this illustrated example, the light module 152 activates the red LEDs of the outer circle of tips, activates the red and green LEDs of the middle circle of tips, which combine to produce yellow, and activates the green LEDs of the inner circle of tips. In one embodiment, the RGB LEDs 202 at the tips can be controlled to produce any color red, green, or blue, or a certain color by combining any two or more of the colors red, green, and blue.By activating and dimming each red, green, and blue LED individually, many shades of color can be achieved at each tip. Each tip can be illuminated to give the same color, or different tips can be illuminated to give different colors. In addition, the ability to individually control the light emitted from each tip allows for the creation of characters. alphanumeric, such as numbers and letters that can spell out notices by illuminating only certain tips. Individual tips with RGB LEDs can be illuminated in different colors to represent different modes. By using different colors or specific tips of illumination, the RGB LEDs 202 can be used to display detailed device information, such as a charging status, an operating mode, a cartridge level, or pleasing aspects by creating an RGB pixel-like display. In one embodiment, the RGB LEDs 202 operate to give status or provide visual displays when the device 100 is in the closed position ([Fig. 3]).In the closed position, light emitted by the RGB LEDs is visible through a diffuser material 136 which can disperse the light to fill the gaps between tips to provide a pleasing visual effect as well as provide useful device status information.

[0078] In one embodiment, the device 100 includes a suction system 114 having a suction generating motor and a manifold 116. In one embodiment, a motor may be a variable speed motor. The suction motor 114 is connected to impeller vanes that cause an airflow to enter through one of the cylinders of the tips 602, 702, 1100, and 1200. The motor causes an airflow to enter through the tip openings. The airflow may carry the used formulation as well as any debris and oils washed from the hair by the formulation, which is then captured by a collector 116, and the air is expelled from the device 100. In one embodiment, the collector 116 includes an annular vent positioned at the rear of the device 100. The vent allows the airflow to exit the device 100, while the used formulation and debris become trapped in the collector 116.

[0079] In one embodiment, the vacuum motor 114 is operated by the multi-position, multi-function selector switch 110. A selector switch 110 may be a slide switch or dial switch with more than two positions, or a push button switch with more than two positions, for example. In one embodiment, a vacuum selector switch 110 has settings for off and more than one vacuum speed setting, such as high and low. In one embodiment, the vacuum switch 110 is located on the rear side of a lower portion of the handle 104 to allow operation with the thumb, for example. The vacuum switch 110 may be isolated for uninterrupted vacuuming. The selector switch 110 remains in the selected position until moved to another position.In one embodiment, a momentary switch may replace the selector switch, wherein the default position of the switch . instantaneous is the off position, and the instantaneous switch must be depressed to start the vacuum motor. In one embodiment, the device 100 includes both a vacuum selector switch and an instantaneous switch, wherein the instantaneous switch is used to operate the vacuum motor when depressed, and at the speed setting on the selector switch.

[0080] In one embodiment, the device 100 includes a controller 148. In one embodiment, the controller 148 is a digital device. The controller 148 may include one or more hardware circuits connected on a printed circuit board, or all of the circuits may exist on a single chip. The controller 148 may include at least one microprocessor core and memory. The hardware may be designed for use in small handheld devices. The microprocessor may be implemented as multiple processors working cooperatively in parallel and serially to carry out instructions according to pre-programmed logic.

[0081] Instructions for controlling the dispenser 112, the suction 114, the light module 152 may be stored in the memory of the controller. A memory is any type of computer-readable medium or computer storage device that is accessible and can be used by one or more microprocessors to execute the instructions. The instructions may be stored in a fast memory such as an EEPROM, a flash memory, a random access memory, or other programmable non-volatile memory.

[0082] The controller 148 communicates with the dispenser 112, the light module 152, the suction 114 to make decisions and control the output from the device 100 based on inputs received from the tips 602, 702, 1100, 1200 themselves, the LEDs 202, 204, 1102, 1202, and / or the contact sensor 162.

[0083] In one embodiment, the controller 148 is configured to turn on and off and vary the intensity of light from individual LEDs that emit light in the visible color spectrum such that the color of light emitted from each individual tip may be different. In one embodiment, the controller 148 is configured to turn on and off and vary the intensity of light from individual LEDs of the RGB LEDs 202 such that the color of light emitted from each individual tip may be different.

[0084] In one embodiment, the controller 148 may also interpret the information provided on cartridges 102 to provide instructions to the dispenser 112 that are specific to the formulation. The controller 148 may command all tips 602, 702, to be opened and closed. 1100, and 1200 to allow the formulation to be dispensed through individually selected tips in a pattern.

[0085] In one embodiment, the controller 148 has circuitry to determine the impedance between terminals of any one or more tips to determine which tips are in contact with the skin and which tips are not in contact with the skin. The controller 148 can then open the valves on the tips that are in contact and close the valves that are not in contact, and give permission to the dispenser to proceed with dispensing formulation through the tips in contact with the skin.

[0086] In one embodiment, the controller 148, the controller 148 has circuitry to determine the impedance between terminals of any one or more tips to determine which tips are in contact with or in close proximity to the skin and which tips are not in contact with the skin. The controller 148 may then activate only the LEDs of the tips that are in contact with or in close proximity to the skin.

[0087] In one embodiment, the controller 148 uses impedance to determine whether the tips are in contact with the scalp. In one embodiment, the controller 148 may disable the suction 114 or not allow the suction to be activated when it is determined that one or more tips are not in contact with the scalp.

[0088] In one embodiment, the controller 148 may use an impedance measurement to determine the hydration of one or more regions on the scalp.

[0089] In one embodiment, the controller 148 receives signals from the contact sensor 162 to determine whether or not the tips are in contact with the skin.

[0090] In one embodiment, the controller 148 has circuitry to control the opening of valves of only those tips that will produce a selected spray pattern.

[0091] In one embodiment, the controller 148 has circuitry for controlling the amount of formulation that is dispensed by the dispenser.

[0092] In one embodiment, the controller 148 is configured to provide power to any one or more of the tips.

[0093] In one embodiment, the controller 148 has circuitry to activate the LEDs 1102 and 1202 according to predetermined instructions. For example, certain formulations may require application of light in a certain wavelength. The controller 148 may be used to activate and deactivate the LEDs 1102 and 1202 to provide phototherapy treatment. The controller 148 has instructions regarding the wavelength to be used and the power to be applied for phototherapy, and then to power the appropriate wavelength LED.

[0094] In one embodiment, the controller 148 has circuitry to control the amount of formulation that is dispensed by the dispenser 112. For example, the controller 148 may activate a pump or compressor for a predetermined amount of time that correlates to a specific amount of formulation. In one embodiment, the dispenser 112 uses a direct displacement pump, therefore, the volume displaced for each rotation of the pump may be measured with an encoder. When the rotations of the pump are equal to the volume of formulation to be dispensed, the controller 148 may deactivate the pump.

[0095] In one embodiment, the controller 148 has circuitry configured to control the dispenser 112 to dispense a measured volume of formulation through one or more of the tips only when the controller 148 senses that the tips are in contact with the scalp.

[0096] In one embodiment, the controller 148 has circuitry configured to turn on and off LEDs of a certain wavelength to apply phototherapeutic treatment or be used to cure formulations.

[0097] In one embodiment, the controller 148 has circuitry configured to control the vibration of selected individual tips.

[0098] In one embodiment, the controller 148 has circuitry configured to control the dispensing of a measured amount of formulation through selected individual tips only upon detecting that the tips are in contact with the scalp / skin.

[0099] Use of the device 100 is instinctive, the overall shape of the device 100 is familiar to users of other hairstyling appliances, such as a hair dryer, leading to simple intuitive use of the device 100. The device 100 may improve upon the current use of aerosol dry shampoos. The device 100 contrasts with an aerosol can that sprays more than necessary and produces a large cloud that covers an area well beyond the user's head. In addition, the device 100 has tips that allow for additional functionality.

[0100] Although illustrative embodiments have been illustrated and described, it will be appreciated that various changes may be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

Claims

1. A hair and scalp treatment device (100), comprising: a dispenser (112) connected to a cartridge (102), wherein the cartridge comprises a formulation; a plurality of tips (602, 702, 1100, 1200) on the device, wherein the tips have at least one opening for dispensing the formulation and at least one LED (202, 1102, 1202) that emits light in the visible color spectrum, wherein the at least one LED is located at the end of the tips; and a controller (148) configured to individually activate and deactivate the LEDs of the plurality of tips, the tips having coil-shaped conductive wiring.

2. The device of claim 1, wherein the at least one LED (202) is an RGB LED.

3. The device of claim 1, wherein the tips (602, 702, 1100, 1200) further comprise a UV or IR LED or both UV and IR LEDs at the end of the tips.

4. The device of claim 1, comprising a handle (104) and a section (138) with a brush head (140) comprising the plurality of tips, wherein the end of the handle comprises a diffuser material (136) visible on the exterior of the handle.

5. A device according to claim 1, comprising a handle (104) and a section (138) with a brush head (140) comprising the plurality of tips, wherein the section with the brush head is pivotable on the handle.

6. The device of claim 1, wherein the controller (148) is configured to control the color of the tips by activating LEDs of different wavelengths.

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