MULTIFUNCTION CONNECTED COMPANION APPLICATOR FOR A COSMETIC FORMULA DISPENSER

Abstract

Multifunctional Connected Companion Applicator for a Cosmetic Formula Dispenser. The invention relates to a tool designed to operate and communicate with a dispenser of personalized formulas, such as those used for skincare. The tool includes an applicator with a shape configured to mix the dispensed formulas and a shape configured to collect the mixed formulation and apply it to a surface. The tool may be equipped with one or more devices to automate dispensing. The tool may be equipped with sensors, diagnostic tools, communication devices, and electronic components so that it can diagnose skin conditions and determine a formula containing the appropriate amounts of product to be dispensed from the dispenser. The tool then communicates this formula to the dispenser, which then dispenses the correct amounts.The tool may also include one or more treatment devices to produce light, heat, cold, microcurrent, and vibration therapy in combination with the application of the formulation. Figure for abbreviation: 1.

Description

Title of the invention: multi-function connected companion applicator for a cosmetic formula dispenser SUMMARY

[0001] In one embodiment, a system includes a dispenser configured to receive a cartridge set of two or more cartridges and to dispense a specified amount of formula from each cartridge to a receiving area and a tool having an applicator with a shape configured to mix the dispensed formulas in the receiving area and has a shape configured to collect the mixed formulation and apply the formulation to a surface.

[0002] In one embodiment, the tool includes an applicator interchangeably connected to the body portion.

[0003] In one embodiment, the tool includes a diagnostic tool, such as haptic control, impedance measurement, and the like.

[0004] In one embodiment, a proximity sensor on the dispenser activates dispensing of a customized dose of formulation.

[0005] In one embodiment, the tool includes processing devices on the applicator that allow the formulation to be applied while utilizing processing functions for improved performance.

[0006] In one embodiment, the specific shape of the applicator allows both mixing and collecting the formulation in the receiving area. The applicator has an all-in-one shape for mixing, collecting and applying the formulation to the skin to avoid using fingers or a multiplicity of tools.

[0007] In one embodiment, the tool includes inductive charging via the dispenser and a permanent magnet on the tool to magnetically attach it to the dispenser.

[0008] In one embodiment, the tool includes a communication interface for communicating with the dispenser. Interaction between the tool and the dispenser is enabled by devices, including a proximity sensor and Bluetooth® low energy technology, which may be used to turn the dispenser on and off, provide automatic dispensing, and provide haptic feedback.

[0009] In one embodiment, the tool / applicator has a built-in diagnostic tool for customizing the recipe and communicating the recipe to the dispenser. In one embodiment, the dispenser's recipe is, for example, controlled by an application on a smartphone. In one embodiment, the dispenser operates without connection to the application when recipes are communicated by the tool.

[0010] In one embodiment, the tool includes one or more treatment functions, such as light, heat, cold, vibration and / or microcurrent treatments.

[0011] This summary presents a selection of concepts in simplified form which are described in more detail 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.

[0012] More particularly, the invention relates to a system, comprising:

[0013] a dispenser configured to receive a cartridge set of two or more cartridges and to dispense a specified amount of formula from each cartridge to a receiving area; and

[0014] a tool having an applicator with a shape configured to mix the dispensed formulations in the receiving area and a shape configured to collect the mixed formulation and apply the formulation to a surface, wherein the tool is attached to the exterior surface of the dispenser.

[0015] The system according to the invention may comprise one or more of the following characteristics, taken in isolation or in any technically possible combination:

[0016] - the applicator includes a center and edges extending from the center outwardly, in which the center is thicker than the edges, and the edges are more flexible than the center.

[0017] - the applicator has a tip ending at the top of the center, the applicator is inclined from the tip down to the right and left edges of the applicator.

[0018] - the dispenser includes a switch or sensor that is activated when the tool is removed from the distributor.

[0019] - the tool includes:

[0020] a communication interface for communicating with the distributor,

[0021] a skin sensor and a diagnostic tool configured to determine at least one type of skin condition,

[0022] a memory including a recipe that determines the amount of formula to be dispensed for a diagnosed skin condition type; and

[0023] a control unit which allows the recipe to be communicated to the distributor.

[0024] - it includes a proximity sensor that activates the dispenser to dispense the formulas when the tool is determined to be near the dispenser.

[0025] - it includes one or more processing devices, wherein the processing device(s) treatment are selected from the group consisting of light generating devices, heat generating devices, cold generating devices, microcurrent generating devices and vibration generating devices.

[0026] - the tool includes a body, and the applicator is configured to attach and detach from the body, wherein a permanent magnet is incorporated in the body, and the body has a surface of a radius similar to an outer radius of the dispenser and the tool is attached to the dispenser via the magnet.

[0027] - it includes two or more interchangeable applicators, wherein each applicator is configured to attach to the same body.

[0028] -it includes an applicator having a different texture or a different size.

[0029] The invention also relates to a method for dispensing cosmetic formulas from a dispensing system configured to receive personalized skin care recipes from a connected computing device, comprising:

[0030] the inclusion of a dispenser configured to receive a cartridge set of two or more cartridges and to dispense a specified amount of cosmetic formula from each cartridge to a receiving area;

[0031] the inclusion of a tool having an applicator with a shape configured to mix the dispensed cosmetic formulas in the receiving area and a shape configured to collect the mixed cosmetic formulation and apply the cosmetic formulation to a surface, wherein the tool is attachable to the exterior surface of the dispenser;

[0032] removing the tool from the dispenser after receipt by the dispenser of a customized recipe, wherein removing the tool triggers the dispenser to dispense the cosmetic formulas from the cartridge set according to the customized recipe.

[0033] The method according to the invention may comprise one or more of the following characteristics, taken in isolation or in any technically possible combination:

[0034] - it further comprises removing the tool from the dispenser which turns on the distributor, and placing the tool on the distributor which turns off the distributor.

[0035] -it further comprises:

[0036] the inclusion of a dispenser configured to receive a cartridge set of two or more cartridges and to dispense a specified amount of cosmetic formula from each cartridge to a receiving area;

[0037] the inclusion of a tool having an applicator with a shape configured to mix the dispensed cosmetic formulas in the receiving area and a shape configured to collect the mixed cosmetic formulation and apply the formulation to a surface, wherein the tool is attachable to the exterior surface of the dispenser, the tool further comprising:

[0038] a communication interface for communicating with the distributor,

[0039] a skin sensor and a diagnostic tool configured to determine at least one type of skin condition,

[0040] a memory including recipes that determine the quantities of cosmetic formulas to be dispensed for a diagnosed skin condition type; and

[0041] a control unit which allows the recipe to be communicated to the distributor;

[0042] removing the tool from the dispenser to turn on the dispenser;

[0043] applying the tool to an area of ​​skin of which a type of skin condition is to be diagnosed;

[0044] with the skin sensor, measuring at least one property of the skin;

[0045] with the tool, the diagnosis of the type of skin condition;

[0046] with the tool, the determination of a recipe, quantities and cosmetic formulas for skin condition type;

[0047] with the tool, communicating the recipe to the distributor; and

[0048] when the tool comes close to the dispenser, dispensing, according to the recipe, the cosmetic formulas from the dispenser.

[0049] - it further comprises the mixing of the distributed cosmetic formulas with a tip of the applicator, collecting the formulation on concave sections of the applicator, and applying the formulation with the edges of the applicator.

[0050] - the tool further comprises one or more processing devices and comprises applying a treatment with the treatment device(s) before, after or at the same time as applying the cosmetic formulation, wherein the treatment device(s) are selected from the group consisting of light generating devices, heat generating devices, cold generating devices, microcurrent generating devices and vibration generating devices. DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0051] The foregoing aspects and numerous related advantages of this invention will be more readily appreciated as they become better understood with reference to the following detailed description, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0052] [Fig-1] [Fig.l] is a schematic illustration of a system including a dispenser for dispensing formulations that can operate with a connected multi-function companion tool and applicator;

[0053] [Fig.2] [Fig.2] is a schematic diagram of the system illustrated in [Fig.l] showing the circuit components of the system;

[0054] [Fig.3] [Fig.3] is a schematic illustration of one embodiment of the tool with the applicator;

[0055] [Fig.4] [Fig.4] is a schematic illustration of one embodiment of the tool of [Fig.3] with a replaceable applicator;

[0056] [Fig.5A] [Fig.5A] is a schematic illustration of the front face of the tool and applicator of [Fig.3];

[0057] [Fig.5B] [Fig.5B] is a schematic illustration of a horizontal section of the tool of [Fig.3];

[0058] [Fig.5C] [Fig.5C] is a schematic illustration of a vertical section of the tool and applicator of [Fig.3];

[0059] [Fig.6] [Fig.6] is a schematic illustration of the components of a circuit of a embodiment of the tool of [Fig.3];

[0060] [Fig.7] [Fig.7] is a flowchart of an embodiment of a method carried out with the tool and the dispenser;

[0061] [Fig.8] [Fig.8] is a flowchart of an embodiment of a method carried out with the tool and the dispenser;

[0062] [Fig.9] [Fig.9] is a schematic illustration of one embodiment of the tool of [Fig.4] with a replaceable applicator; and

[0063] [Fig. 10] [Fig. 10] is a schematic illustration of one embodiment of the tool of [Fig.4] with a replaceable applicator. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0064] In the drawings, annotations having the same numbering designate identical elements within the different views of the different figures. Furthermore, as used herein, the words "a", "an" and the like generally have the meaning "one or more", unless otherwise indicated.

[0065] [Fig.l] relates to an ecosystem 101 allowing the use of a system for customizing cosmetic and skincare formulas at home, based on a specialized dispenser 100 allowing the ingredients of a formulation to be instantly mixed to obtain the end result preferred by the user.

[0066] The present disclosure relates to a tool 102 for use with the ecosystem 101. The tool 102 may be used to mix, collect, and apply the dispensed formulation so that the consumer avoids using fingers or other tools not suitable for the dispenser 100. The tool 102 may optionally include smart features and processing devices. In one embodiment, the tool 102 may include built-in diagnostics and other features to provide autonomy to the dispenser 100. In one embodiment, the tool uses inductive charging and may be magnetically attached to the dispenser 100.

[0067] In one embodiment, the tool 102 uses a proximity sensor and Bluetooth® low energy to interact with the dispenser 100 to, for example, turn the dispenser on and off, automate dispensing, and for haptic feedback.

[0068] In one embodiment, the tool 102 has a shape configured to mix the formulas, collect the formulas, and then apply the mixed formulation.

[0069] In one embodiment, the tool 102 includes an integrated diagnostic tool to customize the formulation recipe and then communicate the recipe to the dispenser who can then automatically dispense.

[0070] In one embodiment, the tool 102 further includes one or more treatment devices, such as light-producing devices for phototherapy or polymerization of photoactive or crosslinkable polymers, heating and / or cooling elements for heat and / or cold treatments, vibration therapy, or microcurrent therapy.

[0071] The dispenser 100 is a device containing a set of two or more cartridges of different formulas and a receiving area 104 disposed above the dispenser 100. In one embodiment, the receiving area 104 may be integrated into a detachable mirror compact to allow the person to carry the personalized formula with them.

[0072] Briefly described, the dispenser 100 includes a motor system located on top for compressing each of the cartridges in the dispenser body by an upward movement toward the receiving area 104. The formulas are dispensed in specified amounts to achieve a selected color or to achieve a certain skin care or hair care treatment. As the formulas are dispensed from two or more cartridges, the formulas will need to be mixed to achieve the correct color or consistency or uniformity throughout the formulation prior to application.

[0073] In one embodiment, the dispenser 100 is controlled from an application 202 installed, for example, on a smartphone 200. The smartphone 200 can further connect to a server 400 via the Internet 300.

[0074] In one embodiment, application 202 evaluates individual user skin and environmental data to create and deliver personalized skin care, hair care, and cosmetic formulas in-situ, which optimize levels of personalization over time.

[0075] When the dispenser 100 is used with the application 202, the entire ecosystem with a motorized cartridge system is enabled by Artificial Intelligence, and creates personalized skincare and cosmetic formulas in four steps. The dispenser 100 creates personalized formulations when connected to the computing device, such as the smartphone 200 with an application, the process being as follows:

[0076] 1. Personal skin analysis: The user takes a photo with a device photo from their smartphone and opens an app on the smartphone. The app uses Artificial Intelligence to analyze the user's overall skin condition, assessing deep wrinkles, fine lines, dark spots, lack of firmness, pore visibility, and dullness.

[0077] 2. Environmental assessment: The application (and / or a computer platform in the cloud) assesses local environmental conditions that may influence the user's skin condition, including weather, temperature, humidity, UV index, air quality, and pollen.

[0078] 3. Product preference: The user then enters his / her product preferences into the application. specific skin care concerns, such as fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots, rough texture and dullness of the skin.

[0079] 4. Custom Formulation and Distribution: The application specifies the quantities of formulas and the dispenser dispenses, at the top of the device, a customized blend of high-performance skin care formulas in a single dose portion.

[0080] With regular use, Artificial Intelligence can assess the appearance of the user's skin over time, helping users identify what works and calibrate future formulas. The system powered by Artificial Intelligence can optimize the effectiveness of personalized formulas. By regularly taking photos, users allow the intelligent system to recognize the effects of formulas and adjust the dosage of active ingredients accordingly. That said, the user can override the system's recommendations if, for example, they are looking for an additional moisturizer.

[0081] The operation of the dispenser 100 with the corresponding application was described in prior publications, in particular in documents US 2021 / 0235845; US 2021 / 0235849; US 2021 / 0235850; US 2021 / 0236390; US 2021 / 0236863, to which reference may be made.

[0082] [Fig. 2] is a diagram showing an example of the distribution system 101. The system 101 which implements the dispenser 100 described above, includes at least the dispenser 100 and optionally a connected computing device 200, such as the smartphone, for executing the application 202. Optionally, the system 101 may also include one or more external servers 410 which are implemented as part of a cloud computing environment communicating via the Internet 300.

[0083] The connected computing device 200 may be a personal computer (PC), a laptop, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a smartphone, a tablet, an ultra-mobile personal computer (UMPC), a netbook, or a notebook-type personal computer.

[0084] The connected computing device 200 is capable of wireless communication with the dispenser 100 by means of a wireless communication interface circuit 120 on the dispenser 100. However, the connected computing device 200 is also capable of having a wired connection with the dispenser 100 by means of a USB interface 122 on the dispenser 100. In addition, each device, including the dispenser 100, can communicate with each other and with the external device(s) via an Internet connection via an 802.11 wireless connection to a wireless Internet access point, or a physical connection to the Internet access point, such as via an Ethernet interface. Each connected computing device 200 is capable of wireless communication with other devices, such as via a Bluetooth connection or other wireless means.

[0085] A server computing system 400 may be used. As observed, the server computing system 400 includes a user data store 402. "Data store" refers to any suitable device configured to store data accessible by one or more computing devices. A data store may be a highly reliable, high-throughput relational database management system (DBMS) running on one or more computing devices and accessible over a high-speed network. A data store may also correspond to a key-value store. However, any other storage technique and / or device capable of quickly and reliably providing the stored data in response to queries may be used. The computing device may be accessible locally rather than over a network, or may be provided from a cloud service.A data store may also include data stored in an organized manner on a computer-readable storage medium, such as a hard disk, flash memory, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), or any other type of computer-readable storage medium. A person skilled in the art will recognize that the separate data stores described herein may be combined into a single data store, and / or a single data store described herein may be separated into multiple data stores. The connected device 200 may access the data store 402 when executing the application 202.

[0086] In a basic configuration, the connected device 200 includes at least one processor and system memory connected by a communication bus. Depending on the exact configuration and device type, the system memory may be volatile or non-volatile memory, such as read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (“EEPROM”), flash memory, or similar memory technology. System memory typically stores data and / or program modules that are immediately accessible to the processor and / or operated on. In this regard, the processor may serve as the computing center of the computing device 200 by supporting the execution of instructions.

[0087] For ease of illustration and of little importance to the understanding of the claimed subject matter, [Fig. 2] does not show some of the typical components of many computing devices. The connected computing device 200 may include a network interface comprising one or more components for communicating with other devices on a network. Embodiments of the present invention may access basic services that utilize the network interface to perform communications using common network protocols. The network interface may also include a wireless network interface configured to communicate via one or more wireless communication protocols, such as WiFi, 2G, 3G, LTE, WiMAX, Bluetooth, Bluetooth Low Energy, and / or the like.

[0088] The connected computing device 200 also includes a storage medium. However, the services may be accessed using a computing device that does not include means for persisting data on a local storage medium. The storage medium may be volatile or non-volatile, removable or non-removable, and implemented using any technology capable of storing information such as, but not limited to, a hard disk drive, an integrated circuit drive, a CD-ROM, a DVD or other storage disk, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, a magnetic storage disk, and / or the like.

[0089] Suitable implementations of connected computing devices 200 including a processor, system memory, a communications bus, a storage medium, and a network interface are known and commercially available. The connected computing device 200 may include input devices, such as a keyboard, a keypad, a mouse, a microphone, a touch input device, a touchscreen, a tablet, and / or the like. These input devices may be coupled to the computing device 200 by wired or wireless connections including radio frequency (RF), infrared, serial, parallel, Bluetooth, Bluetooth low energy, USB, or other suitable connection protocols using wireless or physical connections. Similarly, the computing device 200 may also include output devices such as a display, speakers, a printer, etc.These devices being well known in the state of the art, they are not illustrated or described in this document.

[0090] The dispenser 100 includes a central processing unit (CPU) 112 that provides primary control over the separate circuit components of the dispenser 100, such as a dispenser control circuit 114 (which may include a control circuit for the motors, a circuit for an optical encoder, and an inductive sensor circuit).

[0091] The central processing unit 112 may also control an optional input / output device 116 (such as a touch screen, keyboard, or mouse), a memory 118, the wireless communication interface circuit 120, the universal serial bus (USB) interface 122, a light emitting diode (LED) driver 124, a display device 126, and a switch or sensor 128 detecting the presence of the tool 102. The light emitting diode driver 124 controls the pulsing of one or more indicator lights. The dispenser 100 includes circuitry for a reader 108 with an antenna 110 for communicating with electronic communication and storage devices in the cartridges 106.

[0092] In one embodiment, the circuit includes, among other things, one or more computing devices such as a processor (e.g., a microprocessor, a quantum processor, a qubit processor, etc.), a central processing unit (CPU), a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or the like, or any combination thereof, and may include discrete digital or analog circuit elements or electronic components, or combinations thereof.

[0093] In one embodiment, a module includes one or more application-specific integrated circuits having a plurality of predefined logic components.

[0094] In one embodiment, a module includes one or more field-programmable gate arrays, each having a plurality of programmable logic components.

[0095] In one embodiment, the circuit includes one or more components operatively (e.g., communicatively, electromagnetically, magnetically, ultrasonically, optically, inductively, electrically, capacitively, wirelessly, or the like) coupled to each other.

[0096] In one embodiment, the circuit includes one or more remotely located components.

[0097] In one embodiment, the remotely located components are operatively coupled, for example, via wireless communication, such as with the connected computing device 200.

[0098] In one embodiment, the remotely located components are operatively coupled, for example, via one or more communication modules, receivers, transmitters, transceivers, or the like.

[0099] In one embodiment, the central processing unit 112 or other circuit components illustrated in [Fig.2] may be replaced by other elements circuit. Examples of circuitry include memory that, for example, stores instructions or information. Non-limiting examples of memory include volatile memory (e.g., random access memory (RAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), or the like), non-volatile memory (e.g., read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), compact disk read-only memory (CD-ROM), or the like), persistent memory, or the like. Other non-limiting examples of memory include erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), flash memory, etc.

[0100] In one embodiment, the memory is coupled, for example, to one or more computing devices by one or more instructions, information, or power buses.

[0101] In one embodiment, the circuitry includes one or more computer-readable media readers, interface jacks, universal serial bus (USB) ports, memory card slots or the like, and one or more input / output components such as, for example, a graphical user interface, a display, a keyboard, a keypad, a trackball, a joystick, a touchscreen, a mouse, a switch, a dial or the like, and any other peripheral device.

[0102] In one embodiment, a module includes one or more user input / output components that are operatively coupled to at least one computing device configured to control (electrically controlled, electromechanically controlled, software implemented, firmware implemented, or any other control or combinations thereof) at least one parameter associated with, for example, determining one or more thermal properties of the tissue in response to detected shifts in the firing voltage.

[0103] In one embodiment, the circuit includes a computer-readable media reader or memory location that is configured to accept a signal-carrying medium (e.g., a computer-readable memory medium, a computer-readable recording medium, or the like).

[0104] In one embodiment, a program for causing a system to perform methods may be stored, for example, on a computer-readable recording medium, a signal-carrying medium, or the like. Non-limiting examples of signal-carrying media include a recordable-type medium such as magnetic tape, floppy disk, hard disk, compact disc (CD), digital video disc (DVD), Blu-ray disc, digital tape, computer memory, or the like, as well as a transmission medium such as a digital or analog communication medium (e.g., fiber optic cable, waveguide, a wired communication link, a wireless communication link (e.g., a receiver, a transmitter, a transceiver, transmission logic, reception logic, etc.) Other non-limiting examples of signal-carrying media include, but are not limited to, DVD-ROM, DVD-RAM, DVD +RW, DVD-RW, DVD-R, DVD+R, CD-ROM, Super Audio CD, CD-R, CD+R, CD+RW, CD-RW, video compact discs, super video discs, flash memory, magnetic tape, magneto-optical disc, MINIDISC, non-volatile memory card, EEPROM, optical disc, optical storage, RAM, ROM, system memory, web server, or the like.

[0105] In one embodiment, the circuit includes acoustic transducers, electroacoustic transducers, electrochemical transducers, electromagnetic transducers, electromechanical transducers, electrostatic transducers, photoelectric transducers, radio-acoustic transducers, thermoelectric transducers, or ultrasonic transducers.

[0106] In one embodiment, the circuit includes an electrical circuit operatively coupled to a transducer (e.g., an actuator, a motor, a piezoelectric crystal, a microelectromechanical system (MEMS), etc.)

[0107] In one embodiment, the circuit includes an electrical circuit comprising at least one discrete electrical circuit, an electrical circuit comprising at least one integrated circuit, or an electrical circuit comprising at least one application-specific integrated circuit.

[0108] In one embodiment, the circuit includes an electrical circuit forming a general-purpose computing device configured by a computer program (e.g., a general-purpose computer configured by a computer program that at least partially performs processes and / or devices described herein, or a microprocessor configured by a computer program that at least partially performs processes and / or devices described herein), an electrical circuit forming a memory device (e.g., RAM, flash, ROM, etc.), an electrical circuit forming a communication device (e.g., a modem, a communication switch, opto-electrical equipment, etc.), and / or any non-electrical analog thereof, such as optical or other analogs.

[0109] The dispenser 100 described above allows for the cartridges 106 to be exchanged intelligently and efficiently. The cartridges 106 (consumables) used in the dispenser 100 described above are preferably managed by sets of cartridge sets (such as sets of three cartridges). For example, there may be separate cartridge sets for each of the lipstick, skin care, hair care, and foundation applications described above. In the system, The consumable sets are equipped with a smart chip or any electronic communication and storage device configured to perform data storage and transmission / reception (such as NFC, RFID, or a contact chip). Each cartridge 106 has different properties and a unique formula identifier that can identify properties such as shade / finish, texture, and skin and / or hair benefits. The properties are stored on the integrated circuit during production and encrypted by an asymmetric cryptographic algorithm.

[0110] In addition, security mechanisms can be implemented. These security mechanisms can: (i) guarantee non-modification of production data: sector editions are protected by a password (secret password); (ii) guarantee non-duplication of cartridge data in case of diversion: addition of a signature mechanism using a MID (unique identifier of the label, the encoded data, the secret key of the manufacturing). The application using the device to read the cartridge will then verify that the signature comes from the manufacturing entity before authorizing distribution.

[0111] The ingredients contained in the skin care cartridges 106 may, for example, include alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), vitamins C and E, hyaluronic acid, ferulic acid, retinol, cucumber, thyme, and / or blackberry. However, other active compounds for skin care, hair care, and cosmetics may be used with the dispenser 100. The dispenser 100 may dispense a calculated amount of each formula from each cartridge to customize the skin care formula for a user's specific skin condition.

[0112] The cosmetic offerings - foundation and liquid lipstick - will have the ability to incorporate real-time trend information as well as color matching technology into their personalized product offerings. With the lipstick system, consumers will be able to create a liquid lipstick based on their skin tone and preferences. The system 101 can match shades to a user's clothing or accessories, or even choose to create a particular color that is trending on social media. The dispenser 100 will include three cartridges; collectively, these cartridges will have the ability to create hundreds of shades.

[0113] The foundation system can contain three cartridges, ranging from light to dark tones. Knowing that foundation is never a generic product, a selection of these color trios can be offered to match the widest variety of shades. Using a shade matching tool, the three cartridges will dispense different levels of color to create customized shades. The dispenser 100 has the capacity to create hundreds of custom shades. The 100 dispenser will create a single dose of color, but users can easily double or triple the amount with an additional squeeze.

[0114] In one embodiment, the system for a skin care formulation provides the user with a formulation that is most effective for the user based on the user's geolocation, environmental factor, cumulative UV exposure, and clinical signs assessed by the smartphone or dermatologist's diagnosis. The system manages to adjust the proportion of active compounds to obtain the most effective recipe on a daily basis.

[0115] In one embodiment, the smartphone 200 delivers a recipe to the dispenser 100 via the smartphone application 202. The smartphone application 202 interacts with both the connected dispenser 100 and a cloud server system 400. In one embodiment, use of the smartphone application 202 includes collecting geolocation-based environmental data and combining it with a smartphone diagnosis assessing clinical signs (wrinkles, dark spots, firmness, pores, fine lines, dullness).

[0116] The user may also collect data from a UV sensor, such as a handheld UV sensor described in U.S. Patent No. 10,060,787, incorporated herein by reference, which will effectively provide an accurate measurement of cumulative UV exposure received. Based on the historical data of the skin assessment and environmental factors, the application 202 will define the ideal formulation to combat the signs of skin aging and environmental damage of the user.

[0117] In one embodiment, the tool 102 may be used to trigger the dispenser 100 to dispense the formulation. In one embodiment, the user may press a button within the application 202 to dispense the formulation. In either case, after sending the recipe to the dispenser 100 via the tool 102 or the application 202, the formulation is dispensed to the receiving area 104, and the user may mix, collect, and apply the formulation with the tool 102. The tool 102 has a shape that allows for these functionalities.

[0118] FIGURES 3, 4, 5A, 5B and 5C illustrate one embodiment of a tool 102 configured to have a shape suitable for mixing, collecting and applying a formulation. In one embodiment, the tool 102 includes an applicator 152 connected to a body 150. The applicator 152 is configured to mix, collect and apply the formulation, wherein the body 150 may be used to house one or more electrical components and circuits.

[0119] In one embodiment, the tool 102 is provided with an applicator 152 that can be detached and attached to the body 150 to allow two or more applicators used with the same body 150 to be interchanged. This embodiment allows the applicator size or material to be adapted according to the application surface to accommodate application areas, whether small or large. The interchangeable applicators can also be adapted according to the formulas used, for example, by using different textures for different formulas. In [Fig. 9], for example, the applicator 152 is interchanged with the applicator 952 which has flocking on the right side 956 and the left side 958. In [Fig. 10], for example, applicator 152 is interchanged with applicator 1052 which has a comparatively smaller width on the right side 1056 and left side 1058.The embodiments of the tool 102 of FIGURES 4, 9 and 10 use the same body 150, but have different applicators to suit the application. The embodiments of the tools of FIGURES 9 and 10 are similar to the embodiment of [Fig. 4] and may include one, more or all of the features described and illustrated with respect to [Fig. 6] and perform methods as illustrated in FIGURES 7 and 8.

[0120] From FIGURES 3 and 4, one embodiment of the applicator 152 is a three-dimensional part defined by its height, width, and thickness. [Fig. 5A] shows the front of the applicator 152 characterized by its height and width, and FIGURES 5B and 5C show the thickness of the applicator on a horizontal and vertical plane, respectively. It can be observed that the dimensions associated with the height, width, and horizontal thickness are generally more constant than the vertical thickness. The deviations in height, width, and horizontal thickness will be specified. The vertical thickness changes depending on where the vertical cross-section is taken.

[0121] [Fig. 3] is an embodiment of an applicator 152 showing the front and right sides. In one embodiment, the applicator 152 may be a monolithic piece made from a single continuous material. In a monolithic applicator, the thickness of the material provides the applicator 152 with different functions. At the center 154 where the material is at its maximum thickness, the applicator 152 will be more rigid and can be used to efficiently mix the formulation. The vertical thickness of the applicator 152 decreases extending outward from the center 154 to the sharp edges at the outermost right 156 and left 158 ​​sides, meaning that when vertical sectional views such as those in [Fig. 5C] are taken further outward from the center, the thickness is reduced, making the right 156 and left 158 ​​sides more flexible than the center 154 in the front-to-back direction. This is demonstrated in [Fig.5B]. .

[0122] [Fig. 5C] shows that the thickness at the center 154 is generally constant as it extends from the base 160 of the applicator to the top tip 162. Therefore, the flexibility of the center 154 is less in the front-to-back or thickness direction. The flexibility of the applicator 152 is less in the lateral or width direction because the applicator 152 has a greater width dimension in the lateral direction than in the thickness or front-to-back direction. The right 156 and left 158 ​​sides can be used to pick up or pick up the formulation and apply the formulation to any surface of the skin due to the flexibility resulting from the decrease in thickness from the center 154 to the right 156 and left 158 ​​edges, as shown in [Fig. 5B]. Materials to be used for the applicator 152 include, for example, elastomeric materials.Many elastomers can also be formulated to increase or decrease hardness.

[0123] In one embodiment, flexibility of the applicator edges may also be achieved by using materials having a difference in hardness between the center 154 and the right 156 and left 158 ​​sides.

[0124] In one embodiment, the body 150 has a rounded surface 164 similar to the outer radius of the dispenser 100 to optimize its attachment to the side of the dispenser 100 with a permanent magnet 166, as illustrated in [Fig.4].

[0125] According to [Fig.5A], in one embodiment, the applicator 152 has a similar profile when viewed from the front or the rear. In one embodiment, the applicator 152 has a similar profile when viewed from the right or the left.

[0126] [Fig.5B] illustrates a cross-section along the horizontal plane. The horizontal profile of the front face shape 168 and the rear face shape 170 resembles a symmetrical "bell" shaped curve with a thicker center and decreasing in thickness to the right and left as one moves away from the center, with the thinnest portions at the ends of the right 156 and left 158 ​​edges.

[0127] Further, the front face shape 168 and the rear face shape 170 both have a center with an outwardly facing convex shape passing through an inflection point in the outwardly facing concave shapes 130, 132 on the right side 156 and the concave shapes 134, 136 on the left side 158 as the front and rear profiles extend from the center in the left and right directions. The horizontal cross-sectional thickness or shape illustrated in [Fig. 5B] is generally constant from the base 160 of the applicator 152 throughout its height to below the tip 162. However, according to [Fig. 5A] the edges of the right side 156 and the left side 158 both have a slight outward flare from the base 160. Thus, the lateral dimension at the base 160 of the applicator 152 is generally the smallest and the lateral dimension or width of the applicator 152 increases slightly with height measured from the base, such that the largest lateral dimension or width is just below the tip 162 of the applicator 152.

[0128] Referring to [Fig.5A], the forward profile of the upper edge of the applicator 152 in the lateral direction can be described as a rounded and convex tip 162 outward at the center, with downward and outward sloping straight edges to the left and right tangent to the curve at the center, so that the profile of the upper edge extends to the widest lateral dimension of the applicator 152, corresponding essentially to the upper reach of the right 156 and left 158 ​​edges.

[0129] Referring to [Fig.5C], a vertical sectional view of the tool 102 shows that the applicator 152 has a generally constant thickness at the center 154 from the base 160 to the tip 162. The tip 162 also has a rounded convex shape along the thickness as well as in the width direction as illustrated in [Fig.5A]. In one embodiment, the tip 162 may resemble a section of a sphere. As the vertical cross-section is moved away from the center toward the right or left sides, the thickness from front to back decreases as one moves away from the center.

[0130] Having described one embodiment of the applicator 152 configured to mix, collect and apply a formulation from the dispenser 100, other functionalities may be added to the tool 102, as illustrated in [Fig.6].

[0131] [Fig.6] is a schematic illustration of the tool 102 showing optional functions that can be implemented in the tool 102 to improve the routine performance of the user experience in various aspects, such as usability, sensory feedback and personalized experience.

[0132] In one embodiment, the tool 102 includes one or more sensor devices 624, such as a proximity sensor 610, a skin contact sensor 614, and a diagnostic tool 612. The proximity sensor 610 detects the presence of the dispenser 100, for example to automate dispensing of the formulation with respect to use of the application 202. The skin contact sensor 614 is a sensor for detecting a property of a skin surface, for example by measuring impedance. The diagnostic tool 612 is a program that can receive the impedance measurement and perform an analysis of the user's skin to detect skin characteristics, such as dryness, dark spots, wrinkles, firmness, pores, fine lines, dullness, etc.

[0133] In the embodiment in which the tool 102 includes sensors 624, the tool 102 may be equipped with a printed circuit board (PCB) 602 including a wireless communication interface 608, such as Bluetooth® low energy, a control unit, a circuit 606, and a memory 604 containing firmware for storing formulation programs and recipes. The control unit 606 controls, among other things, the communication interface 608 to enable a recipe to be communicated from the tool 102 to the dispenser 100.

[0134] Further, in one embodiment, the tool 102 may include one or more treatment devices. The treatment devices may include light treatments with light emitting diodes (LEDs) 616. In one embodiment, colored light emitting diodes may be used to provide information about device status, battery power, etc. Additional treatment devices 618 may include heat generating devices, cold generating devices, microcurrent generating devices, and vibration generating devices.

[0135] The tool 102 is equipped with buttons 622. In one embodiment, a button is provided for selecting a day or night skin care recipe. However, the number of buttons or the function is not limited. The tool 102 includes the magnet 166 for attaching the tool 102 to the dispenser 100 as described above. In one embodiment, the battery 620 is inductively charged through the dispenser 100 when the tool 102 is magnetically attached to the dispenser 100.

[0136] Embodiments of the tool 102 may vary in terms of the level of automation and the features provided with the tool 102.

[0137] In one embodiment of the tool 102, the tool 102 may not include any automated or electronic features. In this embodiment, the tool 102 includes the applicator 152 configured to mix, collect, and apply the formulation. The tool 102 may include the magnet 166 to easily place the tool 102 on the dispenser 100. In this embodiment, the selection of the formulation recipes is determined by the application 202 running on the connected smartphone 200. In one embodiment, the dispenser 100 includes a switch or sensor 128 for detecting the presence of the tool 102 attached to the dispenser 100. Upon receiving the application recipe 202, the dispenser 100 determines when the tool 102 is removed, and thereby activates the switch or sensor 128 which automatically triggers dispensing of the formulation onto the receiving area 104.Optionally, the user may trigger the distribution of the formulation via the application 202 without depending on the removal of the tool 102.

[0138] [Fig.7] is an embodiment of a method 700 of using the tool 102 and the dispenser 100 which includes automated dispensing upon detection of removal of the tool 102 from the dispenser 100.

[0139] In the method of [Fig.7], the dispenser 100 may have a magnetic switch 128, which is for example activated to turn on and off with the magnet 166 incorporated into the body 150 of the dispenser 100. This allows for a nominal degree of automation. For example, sensing the presence or removal of the tool 102 may be used to turn the dispenser 100 on and off, or sensing the presence or removal of the tool 102 may be used to automate the dispensing of the formulation.

[0140] At block 702, the user uses the application 202 on the smartphone 200 to determine the appropriate formula recipe for each of the cartridges. Determining the custom formulations is described in the references cited herein. At block 702, the formula recipe is transmitted from the application 202 to the dispenser 100. However, the dispenser 100 waits for the user to remove the tool 102 from the dispenser 100.

[0141] At block 704, removal of tool 102 from dispenser 100 activates switch 128, causing the formulas to be dispensed in the quantities determined by application 202 to the receiving area 104.

[0142] At block 706, tool 102, specifically applicator 152 is used to mix the formulation, which includes, for example, three formulas dispensed onto the receiving area 104 of dispenser 100 without being completely mixed. Tool 102 has tip 162 at its center which is intended to be used for mixing. After mixing, the mixed formulation can be collected using the right 156 and left 158 ​​sides of tool 102 which have concave shapes 130, 132 on the right side 156 and concave shapes 134, 136 on the left side 158 where the formulation can be collected before being applied with the outermost edges of applicator 152.

[0143] At block 708, after use, the tool 102 may be cleaned and reattached to the dispenser 100 to be ready for the next formulation dispensing. Upon attaching the tool 102 to the dispenser 100, the magnetically activated switch 128 on the dispenser 100 turns off the dispenser 100. The memory chips on each of the cartridges 106 may be updated to track the amount of formula remaining in each cartridge.

[0144] In one embodiment, the tool 102 may be further automated to provide autonomous operation without relying on the application 202 to determine the recipe of formulas to be dispensed from the cartridges. In one embodiment, the tool 102 includes the sensor devices 624 including the proximity sensor 610, a diagnostic tool 612 and a skin sensor 614 which are illustrated in [Fig. 6]. In this embodiment, the tool 102 includes the printed circuit board 602 illustrated in [Fig. 6], including a communication interface, such as the Bluetooth® low energy interface 608, a control unit 606, a memory 604 in which is stored a program for performing the method as described in more detail in association with [Fig. 8], a battery 620 for powering the devices, the magnet 166, and optionally buttons 622 for providing user-selected options. Optionally, in this embodiment, the tool 102 may include one or more devices that can be used to provide treatments, such as light-emitting diodes 616 for light treatments, a device 618 that generates heat or cold, microcurrents, vibrations, or all three.

[0145] [Fig. 8] is an embodiment of a method 800 of using the tool 102 comprising at least the sensor devices and the printed circuit board devices 602 illustrated in [Fig. 6]. Optionally, the tool 102 may further include treatment devices. By way of example, the method is described using a skin care formulation; however, the method may be applied in the case of lip, foundation, and / or hair care formulas.

[0146] At block 802, tool 102 is attached to dispenser 100 and may be activated by unhooking tool 102 from dispenser 100. Dispenser 100 may have a magnetically activated switch 128. When tool 102 is unhooked, dispenser 100 detects that tool 102 has been removed and turns on.

[0147] At block 804, tool 102 may include a button 622 for selecting a day or night skin care recipe. However, the number of recipes is not limited and may include other formulations. Tool 102 detects the selection of the day or night recipe which will be a factor in determining the amount of formula to be dispensed from the cartridges.

[0148] At block 806, the user applies the tool 102 to the area of ​​skin to be diagnosed. The skin contact sensor 614 is configured to detect a skin property that reflects the type of skin condition, such as dryness, dark spots, wrinkles, firmness, pores, fine lines, dullness. For example, the sensors 614 may include a moisture sensor that measures impedance to determine skin dryness. In another embodiment, the sensor 614 may measure light reflectance to diagnose the presence of dark spots and wrinkles. In one embodiment, the diagnostic tool 612 employs the diagnostic methods that are described in prior publications describing the dispenser and application 202. Similar diagnostic methods may be programmed and stored in the memory 604 of the tool 102.After the determination by the tool 102 of the type(s) of skin condition, the recipe characterizing the mixture of the cartridge formulas is determined.

[0149] In one embodiment, a recipe describes the amount of each formula to be dispensed from the cartridges for each diagnosed skin condition type. In one embodiment, the amount of each formula to to be dispensed is predetermined based on previous testing or experience and stored in a relational database that provides the amount of formula to be dispensed for each type of skin damage detected. For example, the diagnostic method may use measurement of skin dryness, detection of wrinkles and / or dark spots to select a predetermined recipe of formulas with active compounds, such as alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), vitamins C and E, hyaluronic acid, ferulic acid, retinol, cucumber, thyme, blackberry, etc.

[0150] At block 808, when the user moves the tool 102 back toward the dispenser 100, the proximity sensor 610 detects the proximity of the dispenser 100, and the dispenser 100 is able to establish communication with the tool 102, for example via Bluetooth® pairing. The formula recipe determined by the diagnostic tool 612 is then communicated to the dispenser 100. Subsequently, the dispenser 100 dispenses the formulas according to the ratios communicated by the tool 102. In one embodiment, the dispensing of the formulas is not activated by the app 202.

[0151] At block 810, the formulations are mixed with the tool 102. For this purpose, the tool 102 has at its center the tip 162 intended to be used for mixing. After mixing, the mixed formulation can be collected using the right 156 and left 158 ​​sides of the tool 102 which are of concave shapes 130, 132 on the right side 156 and of concave shapes 134, 136 on the left side 158 where the formulation can be collected before being applied with the outermost edges of the applicator 152.

[0152] At optional block 812, tool 102 may be further equipped with treatment devices, such as light-emitting diodes, cold, heat, microcurrent, or vibration generating devices. When tool 102 is equipped with one or more treatment devices, tool 102 activates treatment compatible with the diagnosis and formulation. The treatment may be applied before, after, or concurrently with the application of the formulation.

[0153] At block 814, after use, the tool 102 may be cleaned and reattached to the dispenser 100 to be ready for the next formulation dispensing. Upon attaching the tool 102 to the dispenser 100, the magnetically activated switch 128 on the dispenser 100 turns off the dispenser 100. The memory chips in each of the cartridges are updated to track the amount of formula remaining in each cartridge.

[0154] Although embodiments have been illustrated and described, it will be appreciated that various modifications may be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

Claims

1. A system, comprising: a dispenser (100) configured to receive a cartridge set of two or more cartridges and to dispense a specified amount of formula from each cartridge to a receiving area; and a tool (102) having an applicator (152), wherein the tool (102) is secured to the outer surface of the dispenser (100), wherein the applicator (152) includes a center and edges extending from the center outwardly, wherein the center is thicker than the edges, and the edges are more flexible than the center, a cross-section of the applicator having a front face (168) and a back face (170) both having a center with an outwardly facing convex shape passing through an inflection point into outwardly facing concave shapes (130, 132) on the right side (156) and concave shapes (134, 136) on the left side (158).

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the applicator (152) has a tip terminating at the center apex, the applicator (152) is angled from the tip downward to the right and left edges of the applicator (152).

3. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein the dispenser (100) includes a switch or sensor that is activated to detect the presence or removal of the tool (102).

4. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the tool (102) includes: a communication interface for communicating with the dispenser (100), a skin sensor and a diagnostic tool configured to determine at least one type of skin condition, a memory including a recipe that determines the amount of formula to be dispensed for a diagnosed type of skin condition; and a control unit that allows the recipe to be communicated to the dispenser (100).

5. The system of claim 4, further comprising a proximity sensor that activates the dispenser (100) to dispense the formulas when the tool (102) is determined to be in proximity to the dispenser (100).

6. A system according to any one of claims 4 or 5, including one or more treatment devices, wherein the one or more treatment devices are selected from the group consisting of light generating devices, heat generating devices, cold generating devices, microcurrent generating devices and vibration generating devices.

7. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the tool (102) includes a body, and the applicator (152) is configured to attach and detach from the body, wherein a permanent magnet is incorporated in the body, and the body has a surface of a radius similar to an outer radius of the dispenser (100) and the tool (102) is attached to the dispenser (100) via the magnet.

8. The system of claim 7, including two or more interchangeable applicators (152), wherein each applicator (152) is configured to attach to the same body.

9. The system of claim 8, including an applicator (152) having a different texture or a different size.

10. A method of dispensing formulas from a dispensing system according to claim 1 configured to receive customized skincare recipes from a connected computing device, comprising: including a dispenser (100) configured to receive a cartridge set of two or more cartridges and to dispense a specified amount of formula from each cartridge to a receiving area; including a tool (102) having an applicator (152), wherein the tool (102) is attached to the exterior surface of the dispenser (100); removing the tool (102) from the dispenser (100) after the dispenser (100) receives a customized recipe, wherein removing the tool (102) triggers the dispenser (100) to dispense the formulas from the cartridge set according to the customized recipe.

11. The method of claim 10, further comprising removing the tool (102) from the dispenser (100) thereby turning on the dispenser (100), and placing the tool (102) on the dispenser (100) thereby turning off the dispenser (100).

12. A method according to any one of claims 10 or 11 further comprising: the inclusion of a dispenser (100) configured to receive a cartridge set of two or more cartridges and to dispense a specified amount of formula from each cartridge to a receiving area; the inclusion of a tool (102) having an applicator (152) with a shape configured to mix the dispensed formulas in the receiving area and a shape configured to collect the mixed formulation and apply the formulation to a surface, wherein the tool (102) is attached to the exterior surface of the dispenser (100), the tool (102) further comprising: a communication interface for communicating with the dispenser (100), a skin sensor and a diagnostic tool configured to determine at least one type of skin condition, a memory including recipes that determine the amounts of formulas to be dispensed for a diagnosed type of skin condition;and a control unit that allows communicating the recipe to the dispenser (100); removing the tool (102) from the dispenser (100) to turn on the dispenser (100); applying the tool (102) to a skin area for which a skin condition type is to be diagnosed; with the skin sensor, measuring at least one skin property; with the tool (102), diagnosing the skin condition type; with the tool (102), determining a recipe, quantities and cosmetic formulas for the skin condition type; with the tool (102), communicating the recipe to the dispenser (100); and when the tool (102) comes into proximity to the dispenser (100), dispensing, according to the recipe, the formulas from the dispenser (100).;

13. A method according to any one of claims 10 to 12, further comprising mixing the dispensed formulations with a tip of the applicator (152), collecting the formulation on the concave shapes of the applicator (152), and applying the formulation with the edges of the applicator (152).

14. The method of claim 12, wherein the formulation is a cosmetic formulation, the tool (102) further comprising one or more treatment devices and comprises applying a treatment with the one or more treatment devices before, after or at the same time as applying the cosmetic formulation, wherein the one or more treatment devices are selected from the group consisting of light generating devices, heat generating devices, cold generating devices, microcurrent generating devices and vibration generating devices.

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