systems, devices and processes to optimize a cosmetic manufacturing process

Abstract

SYSTEMS, DEVICES AND METHODS FOR OPTIMIZING A COSMETIC MANUFACTURING PROCESS The invention relates to a system configured to run a contest which includes displaying an image of a model's face, from among a plurality of models, to a user; receiving input from the user to adjust a color of a mixed cosmetic product to be applied to the model's face; displaying the model with the adjusted color selected by the user; receiving the image of the model's face with the adjusted color as user input; displaying the user input to a plurality of users and providing the plurality of users with an option to submit a vote on the user input and the inputs of other users; providing as output a contest result based on one or more inputs receiving the most votes.The system also transmits an instruction to a cartridge manufacturing facility from a dispensing device to create a bundled pack of cartridges for the specified plurality of colors. Figure for abbreviation: NONE.

Description

Title of the invention: Systems, devices and methods for optimizing a cosmetic manufacturing process. CONTEXT Domain

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to a system, apparatus and method for determining a combination of cosmetic materials that can be mixed and dispensed for a particular user. SUMMARY

[0002] The invention relates to a system that includes processing circuitry configured to run a contest that includes displaying an image of a model's face, from among a plurality of models, to a user; receiving input from the user to adjust a color of a mixed cosmetic product to be applied to the model's face; displaying the model with the adjusted color selected by the user; receiving the image of the model's face with the adjusted color as user input; displaying the user input to a plurality of users and providing the plurality of users with an option to submit a vote on the user's input and the inputs of other users; and providing as output a contest result based on one or more inputs receiving the most votes.in which the processing circuitry is further configured to: determine a plurality of color ingredients used for the colors adjusted in one or more inputs receiving the most votes, the color ingredients corresponding to cartridges used in a dispensing device to produce the blended cosmetic product; transmit an instruction to a cartridge manufacturing facility to create a bundled pack of cartridges for the determined plurality of color ingredients.

[0003] The system may comprise one or more of the following features, taken individually or in any technically feasible combination: - the competition also includes: - displaying an image of a model's face, among a plurality of models, to a user; - receiving user input to adjust the color of a mixed cosmetic product to be applied to the model's face; - displaying the model with the adjusted color selected by the user; and - receiving the image of the model's face with the color adjusted as input from the user; - the number of cartridges in the grouped cartridge packaging corresponds to the number of cartridges that are stored simultaneously in the dispensing device; - The processing circuitry is further configured to: - to determine a particular color from among the colors selected in one or more entries receiving the most votes; and - transmit an instruction to the cartridge manufacturing facility to create a group package of cartridges in order to produce the particular color determined with the dispensing device; - The processing circuitry is further configured to: - determine a plurality of the most frequent ingredients in the colors adjusted in one or more inputs; and - transmit an instruction to the cartridge manufacturing facility to create a grouped cartridge package that includes the plurality of the most common ingredients; - the processing circuitry is further configured to transmit an instruction to a cartridge manufacturing facility to adjust manufacturing volumes in order to prioritize the production of cartridges corresponding to the determined plurality of color ingredients; - the processing circuitry is further configured to transmit the instruction to a particular cartridge manufacturing facility in a specific geographical area based on the collection of data on votes in the competition from the specific geographical area; - the contest is configured to end before a season or event, and the end of the contest automatically triggers the processing circuitry to transmit the instruction to the manufacturing facility; - the processing circuitry is further configured to display a link to purchase a blended cosmetic product corresponding to the entry receiving the most votes; - The processing circuitry is configured to transmit the instruction to the manufacturing facility a predetermined time before displaying the link. Brief description of the drawings

[0004] The patent or application file contains at least one drawing executed in color. A more complete appreciation of the disclosure and the many benefits that The resulting information will be easily obtained by referring to the detailed description that follows when considered in relation to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0005] [Fig.1] Fig.1 is an overall perspective view of a cosmetic dispensing device, or cosmetic dispenser, according to an example;

[0006] [Fig.2] Fig.2 is a perspective view of a distributor body, according to a example ;

[0007] [Fig.3] Fig.3 is a perspective view of the cosmetic dispenser with the distributor body removed, according to an example;

[0008] [Fig. 4A] The [Fig. 4A] is a perspective view of internal components of the cosmetic dispenser, according to an example;

[0009] [Fig. 4B] The [Fig. 4B] is a perspective view of internal components of the cosmetic dispenser, according to an example;

[0010] [Fig.5] The [Fig.5] is a perspective view of a cartouche, according to an example;

[0011] [Fig. 6] Fig. 6 is a perspective view of a cartridge gear, according to a example ;

[0012] [Fig. 7A] The [Fig. 7A] is a perspective view of a plate from below, according to an example;

[0013] [Fig. 7B] The [Fig. 7B] is a perspective view of the bottom plate, seen from below, according to an example;

[0014] [Fig.8] The [Fig.8] is a perspective view of a base, according to an example;

[0015] [Fig. 9A] The [Fig. 9A] is an exploded perspective view of a powder compact, arranged above a collector, according to an example;

[0016] [Fig. 9B] The [Fig. 9B] is a perspective view of the powder compact in the open position, according to an example;

[0017] [Fig. 10] The [Fig. 10] is a diagram representing an example of a sequence of primary processes of a cosmetic formulation process 900, according to an example;

[0018] [Fig. 11] The [Fig. 11] is a process diagram representing an example of a cosmetic material detection process in the cosmetic dispenser, according to an example;

[0019] [Fig. 12A] [Fig. 12B] Figures 12A and 12B are process diagrams representing examples of cosmetic formulation selection processes, according to one example;

[0020] [Fig. 13] The [Fig. 13] is a process diagram representing an example of a cosmetic material distribution process in the cosmetic dispenser, according to an example.

[0021] [Fig. 14] The [Fig. 14] is a diagram representing an example of a connected cosmetic dispensing system, according to an example; and

[0022] [Fig. 15] The [Fig. 15] is a diagram representing an example of circuitry of the control device and cosmetic dispenser, according to an example.

[0023] [Fig. 16] Fig. 16 shows the components of an ecosystem that uses the cosmetic dispenser to manufacture personalized doses for a user.

[0024] [Fig. 17] Fig. 17 shows an ecosystem whose objective is to offer a trendy lipstick color to a user.

[0025] [Fig. 18A] Fig. 18A shows an example of the flow of operations in the ecosystem to distribute a personalized shade of lipstick from the point of view of the app.

[0026] [Fig. 18B] The [Fig. 18B] shows a further flowchart on how the smartphone app algorithms in the lipstick ecosystem can enable a user to visualize a shade of lipstick on the user's self-portrait.

[0027] [Fig. 18C] Fig. 18C further illustrates how the specific set of cartridges can give rise to different color universes to be presented to the user.

[0028] [Fig. 18D] Fig. 18D shows how a "match my style" mode can work on the app in the lipstick ecosystem.

[0029] [Fig. 18E] Fig. 18E shows details of the operation of the lipstick recommendation engine based on the user's self-portrait of their outfit.

[0030] [Fig. 19] The [Fig. 19] shows an ecosystem whose objective is to offer the user a skin care formulation that is the most effective for him / her.

[0031] [Fig. 20A] The [Fig. 20A] shows an example of an operation flow in the ecosystem for the distribution of a personalized skincare formulation from the point of view of the app.

[0032] [Fig. 20B] Fig. 20B shows an example of how a combination of different environmental factors determined to be present for a user can lead to different dosage quantities from three different cartridges.

[0033] [Fig.21] Fig.21 shows an ecosystem used to distribute foundation personalized for a user.

[0034] [Fig. 22A] Fig. 22A shows an example of the flow of operations in the ecosystem for distributing a personalized foundation from the point of view of the app.

[0035] [Fig. 22B] The [Fig. 22B] provides details of a method for performing a skin tone diagnosis.

[0036] [Fig. 22C] [Fig. 22D] Figures 22C and 22D show details of how deep learning is used to estimate skin tone in an image.

[0037] [Fig.23] Fig.23 shows the structure of a cartridge containing an NFC tag.

[0038] [Fig.24] Fig.24 shows a data format of the data stored on the NFC tag on the cartridge.

[0039] [Fig.25] Fig.25 shows a table which includes descriptions of the different fields contained in the NFC tag data format.

[0040] [Fig. 26] Fig. 26 shows a structure of the distribution device equipped with a intelligent interchangeable cartridge system.

[0041] [Fig.27] Fig.27 shows a connection established between the device distribution and a user's smartphone.

[0042] [Fig.28] Figure [Fig.28] shows the consumer app state machine which shows a process, from the application's point of view, of priming the cartridges before any use of the dispensing device.

[0043] [Fig. 29] Figure 29 shows a method for managing an NFC cartridge label defective in the aforementioned scenario.

[0044] [Fig. 30A] [Fig. 30B] [Fig. 30C] Figures 30A to 30C show a first type of game which uses a color wheel interface for a distribution device.

[0045] [Fig. 31] Fig. 31 shows a graph where data are collected concerning the user's selections on the color wheel interface.

[0046] [Fig.32] Fig.32 shows a flowchart based on a calibration feature of the game that uses the color wheel interface.

[0047] [Fig. 33] Fig. 33 shows a second type of game that uses a wheel interface of colors for a dispensing device.

[0048] [Fig. 34] Fig. 34 shows a third type of game that uses a wheel interface of colors for a dispensing device.

[0049] [Fig. 35] Fig. 35 shows an example of a user design challenge that uses the color wheel interface for a dispensing device.

[0050] [Fig. 36A] [Fig. 36B] Figures 36A and 36B show different screens displayed to the user while the user participates in the user design challenge.

[0051] [Fig.37] The [Fig.37] shows a variant of the user design challenge.

[0052] [Fig. 38] [Fig. 39] Figures 38 and 39 show examples of screens for different Specific types of challenges for different themes.

[0053] [Fig. 40] Figure 40 shows a process for generating a cosmetic tint recommended for a user based on the user's image and the results of a design challenge.

[0054] [Fig. 41] [Fig. 42] Figures 41 and 42 show different processes for grouping cosmetic cartridges in a single package based on the results of a design challenge.

[0055] [Fig. 43] Figure 43 shows a screen displayed at the end of a design challenge which allows a user to purchase bundled packs of cartridges based on challenge results. detailed description of the implementation methods

[0056] In the drawings, similar numerical references designate identical or corresponding parts in the different views. Furthermore, when used in this document, the words "a", "an" and the like generally mean "one or more", unless otherwise specified.

[0057] If we now refer to the drawings, in which the numerical references designate identical or corresponding parts in the different views.

[0058] The selection of cosmetic formulations and component cosmetic materials for formulating cosmetic formulations is a common activity that often relies on subjective decision-making and manual input. A wide variety of cosmetic materials are available, and countless combinations and permutations of cosmetic formulations are possible.

[0059] For each occasion where cosmetic formulations are used, subjective decisions are often made by the end user of cosmetics to produce satisfactory cosmetic formulations. The results are generally the product of experimentation, sometimes requiring multiple iterations to obtain a satisfactory result. Partly due to limited knowledge of the specific characteristics of the base cosmetic materials and the necessary proportions, the resulting cosmetic formulations may lack precision. Repeatability in the production of a specific cosmetic formulation is therefore difficult to achieve. The embodiments below address these problems in the classical art.

[0060] Specifically, the description below relates to an ecosystem for personalizing skincare and creating a formula personalization system for home use, which is based on a specialized dispensing device for instantly mixing the ingredients of a cosmetic product to obtain the final result desired by the user, and then for conveniently transporting it.

[0061] The system shown below is a first-of-its-kind, AI-powered, 3-in-1 device that allows users to personalize their skincare, foundation, and liquid lipstick at home. The device and its corresponding app assess users' individual skin and local environmental data to create and deliver personalized cosmetic and skincare formulas on-site, optimizing the levels of personalization over time.

[0062] The overall ecosystem has the distinctive feature of an AI-activated motorized cartridge system, as described above, which creates cosmetic and skincare formulas Personalized skincare in four steps. The device creates customized skin serums according to the following process:

[0063] 1. Personal skin analysis: The user takes a photo with the device A photo is taken from a smartphone, and an app is opened on the smartphone. The app uses AI to analyze the user's overall skin condition, assessing deep wrinkles, fine lines, dark spots, lack of firmness, pore visibility, and lack of radiance.

[0064] 2. Environmental assessment: The app (and / or a computer platform in cloud) assesses local environmental conditions that may influence the user's skin condition, including weather, temperature, humidity, UV index, air quality, and pollen.

[0065] 3. Product preference: The user then enters their concerns into the app specific skincare concerns, such as fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots, rough skin texture and dull appearance.

[0066] 4. Customized formulation and distribution: A customized blend of care The high-performance skin is then distributed in a single portion, at the top of the device.

[0067] The motor system, located at the top of the device, moves and compresses the formula from the cartridges at the base of the machine in an upward movement towards the distribution tray above for clean application.

[0068] With regular use, the AI ​​platform can assess a user's skin appearance over time, helping users identify what works and calibrate future formulas. The AI-powered system can optimize the effectiveness of personalized formulas. By regularly taking photos, users allow the intelligent system to recognize the effects of the formulas and adjust the dosage of active ingredients accordingly. That said, the user can override the system's recommendations if they want, for example, an additional moisturizer.

[0069] The skin care system includes active ingredients such as AHAs, vitamins C and E, hyaluronic acid, ferulic acid, retinol, cucumber, thyme and mulberry.

[0070] The cosmetics offerings - foundation and liquid lipstick - will have the ability to integrate real-time trend information and color-matching technology into their personalized product offerings, as described below.

[0071] - Using the lipstick system, consumers will be able to create a lipstick liquid lip balm based on their skin tone and preferences. The system can match the shade of a user's clothing or accessories, or You can even choose to create a specific color that's trending on social media. The device will have three cartridges; collectively, these cartridges will be able to create hundreds of shades.

[0072] - The foundation system described below will contain three cartridges, going From light to deep tones. Recognizing that foundation is never a one-size-fits-all solution, a selection of these color trios can be offered to match the widest range of skin tones. Using a shade-matching tool, the three cartridges dispense different levels of color to create custom shades. The device has the capacity to create hundreds of custom shades. While the device allows for a single application of color, users can easily double or triple the amount with an additional press.

[0073] There are three dosage settings for the system described in this document. There will be a standard-sized dose (0.7 grams, roughly the size of a pistachio) which users can double or triple with an additional press.

[0074] The device has the distinctive feature of being equipped with a detachable powder compact with a mirror, which allows you to take a portion of the product with you.

[0075] Between opening the app, taking a picture of one's face and the distribution of the product, the user experience with the present system takes approximately three minutes.

[0076] [distribution device]

[0077] Figure 1 is an overall perspective view of a cosmetic dispensing device 100, or a cosmetic dispenser, according to one example. The visible portion of the cosmetic dispenser 100 includes a base 102 connected to a power cord 104. The base 102 provides support for the dispenser body 106. A powder compact 108 is arranged above the dispenser body 106. A power button 110 may be partially located inside the dispenser body 106 such that the dispenser body 106 accommodates the placement of the power button 110, and an indicator light button 122 may be partially located inside the dispenser body 106 such that the dispenser body 106 accommodates the placement of the indicator light button 122. The indicator light button 122 may be a mechanical or capacitive touch button.

[0078] Figure 2 is a perspective view of the dispenser body 106, according to an example. The dispenser body 106 is a thin-walled, hollow container that serves as a covering element for a large part of the components of the cosmetic dispenser 100. In this example, the dispenser body 106 has a first end at the top with an approximately square cross-section with rounded corners, while a second end at the bottom has a circular cross-section. The dispenser body 106 can provide a base for the powder compact 108, or other components. which serve as the base for the powder compact 108. The dispenser body 106 may also include a mounting point for the power button 110 and a mounting point for the indicator light button 122.

[0079] Figure 3 is a perspective view of the cosmetic dispenser 100 with the dispenser body 106 removed, as an example. The power button 110, the indicator light button 122, a control device 150, a bottom plate 166, an induction plate 176, and a gear housing 170 are visible in this view, as well as a lower body section 154, a middle body section 155, and an upper body section 156. The power button 110 is electrically connected to the control device 150.

[0080] The control device 150 includes circuitry for distributing the power received by the power cord 104, controlling one or more motors 112 for distributing the cosmetic material, detecting readings from an optical encoder 192, charging one or more batteries 126, operating indicator lights such as the indicator light button 122, chimes or other audiovisual signals, sensors, for example to detect the availability status, type and quantity of cosmetic material, and communicating wirelessly with external devices, including circuitry for sending and receiving signals and data, for example via smartphones and other wireless devices, using a variety of communication protocols, such as radio frequency (RF), Bluetooth, Wi-Fi or cellular.

[0081] The induction plate 176 supports the bottom plate 166. Apart from the base 102 and the power cord 104, the remainder of the cosmetic dispenser 100 is arranged on the bottom plate 166. The gear housing 170 is arranged above, is connected to, and provides support for the internal components of the cosmetic dispenser 100, which are described in more detail in Figures 4 to 9B. Furthermore, the gear housing 170 includes a plurality of gear housing cartridge holes 178, one for each cartridge 114 in the cosmetic dispenser 100. A nozzle 160 of each cartridge 114 is arranged inside one of the gear housing cartridge holes 178. Various additional substructures and covering elements can be arranged between the internal components of the cosmetic dispenser 100 and the dispenser body 106.

[0082] For example, the upper body section 156 is arranged above the middle body section 155, and the lower body section 154 is arranged below the middle body section 155. When connected, the distributor body 106 is fixed outside at least one of the lower body section 154, the middle body section 155 and the upper body section 156. The bottom plate 166 is arranged below the lower body section 154 and is connected to it.

[0083] Figures 4A and 4B are perspective views of internal components of the cosmetic dispenser 100, according to an example. The internal assembly includes a plurality of dispensing assemblies 120, arranged above the bottom plate 166 and the induction plate 176. Each dispensing assembly 120 comprises a cartridge 114, a cartridge gear 116, a motor 112, a motor gear 124, an ejector 140, an ejector indexing ring 190, an ejector spring 142, an ejector spring pin 144, a release plunger 146, and a release spring 152. The control device 150 controls the operation of each of the dispensing assemblies 120. The cosmetic dispenser 100 includes at least one dispensing assembly 120.The examples described in this document contain three dispensing sets of 120, although a person with ordinary competence in the art will recognize that a cosmetic dispenser of 100 may have any number of dispensing sets of 120.

[0084] In addition, a plurality of batteries 126 inside the cosmetic dispenser 100 are electrically connected to the plurality of dispensing assemblies 120 in order to provide power for the operation of the control device 150, the dispensing assembly 120, the motor 112 and various indicator lights, such as the indicator light button 122 (described in more detail in [Fig.3]), chimes and other audiovisual signals.

[0085] The control device 150 and a connected device 300 (shown in [Fig. 14]) allow a user to operate the cosmetic dispenser 100 wirelessly. Cosmetic material formulation and recipe commands addressed to the control device 150 can be received from the connected device 300, such as a smartphone, tablet, or personal computer, configured to communicate with the cosmetic dispenser 100. Furthermore, the dispensing of the cosmetic material can also be triggered by the user by pressing the illuminated button 122 on the cosmetic dispenser 100.

[0086] The cartridge 114 also has a cartridge key 162 disposed on or near the nozzle 160, is connected near one end to the cartridge gear 116, is connected near one end to the bottom plate 166, with a motor gear 124 connected to the motor 112, and the motor gear 124 connected in drive to the cartridge gear 116. The cartridge 114 and the cartridge gear 116 are held in position by the gear housing 170 (shown in [Fig.3]). The cartridge 114 can be placed inside the cosmetic dispenser 100 and secured in place by the ejector 140 connected to an ejector spring 142, the ejector spring pin 144 being connected at one end to the ejector spring 142 and rigidly connected at the other end to an inner surface of at least one element among the dispenser body 106, the lower body section 154, the middle body section 155, the upper body section 156, and other internal structures. The dispensing assembly 120 further includes an ejector indexing ring 190 (shown in [Fig. 4A]) to guide the movement of the ejector 140 inside the cosmetic dispenser 100 during the insertion and removal of the cartridge 114, the ejector indexing ring 190 being disposed against the inner surface of at least one element among the dispenser body 106, the lower body section 154, the middle body section 155 and the upper body section 156 to provide a guide for the movement of the ejector 140.

[0087] Furthermore, a detent plunger 146 can be disposed substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the cartridge 114 and connected near the second end of the cartridge 114, providing lateral pressure to a circumferential groove 134 of the cartridge 114, holding the cartridge 114 in place along the vertical axis Y, counterbalancing an opposing force applied by tension to the cartridge 114 by the ejector 140, the ejector spring 142, and an ejector spring pin 144. The ejector 140 is disposed inside the cosmetic dispenser 100 and can move substantially parallel to the cartridge 114, and is connected to the ejector spring 142, which is further connected to the ejector spring pin 144. When the cartridge 114 is inserted into the cosmetic dispenser 100, an edge of the ejector 140 comes into contact with an edge near the first end of the cartridge 114.The ejector 140 applies pressure to the cartridge 114 when the ejector spring 142 stretches with the increasing distance between the fixed ejector spring pin 144 and the ejector 140, as the ejector 140 moves with the cartridge 114 further into the cosmetic dispenser 100. Once the cartridge 114 is inserted to the point where a first end of the trigger plunger 146 makes contact with the circumferential groove 134 of the cartridge 114, the movement of the cartridge 114 along the Y-axis is limited, which keeps the cartridge 114 in place.

[0088] The trigger plunger 146 is a mechanism for holding the cartridge 114 in place. The trigger plunger 146 moves along an axis substantially perpendicular to that of the major axis of the cartridge 114. One end of the trigger plunger 146 is arranged to make contact with the cartridge 114. A second end is connected to one end of a trigger spring 152, the second end of the trigger spring 152 being in contact with an internal surface of at least one element of the dispenser body 106, the lower body section 154, the middle body section 155, the upper body section 156, or another internal structure. Inserting the cartridge 114 into the cosmetic dispenser 100 moves the trigger plunger 146 against the trigger spring 152. compressing the release spring 152. As the contour of the cartridge 114 varies along the length of the cartridge 114, the release plunger 146 and the release spring 152 are displaced by varying amounts depending on the position of the cartridge 114 relative to the cosmetic dispenser 100. At a point where the release plunger 146 comes into contact with the circumferential groove 134 of the cartridge 114, the first end of the release plunger 146 is able to lock the cartridge 114 in place due to the pressure of the release spring 152 and the geometric relationship between the release plunger 146 and the circumferential groove 134.

[0089] Furthermore, the cartridge 114 is inserted into the cosmetic dispenser 100 through a cartridge through-hole 172 in the bottom plate 166. The cartridge through-hole 172 has a base key cutout 165 ([Fig. 7A]) formed to match the base key 164 so that when the base key 164 and the base key cutout 165 make contact, the cartridge 114 cannot rotate relative to the bottom plate 166. The cartridge 114 is also formed to fit the bottom plate 166 and the cartridge gear 116 in a specific orientation. In the position where the cartridge 114 is fully inserted into the cosmetic dispenser 100 and locked in place by the plunger 146, the cartridge 114 is positioned against the cartridge gear 116.Furthermore, the cartridge gear 116 has a collar portion 168 that is rotatably connected to the gear housing 170, limiting the movement of the cartridge gear 116 so that it can rotate about a longitudinal axis but cannot move axially or otherwise, and supporting the position of each of the cartridge gears 116 and the motor gears 124. Similarly, the motor gear 124 has a motor gear collar portion 169 that is rotatably connected to the gear housing 170, limiting the movement of the motor gear 124 so that it can rotate about a longitudinal axis but cannot move axially or otherwise, preserving the relationship between the cartridge gear 116 and the motor gear 124 so that the rotary movement of the motor gear 124 results in a rotary movement of the cartridge gear 116 at a fixed ratio.

[0090] The motor gear 124 can be a spur gear which includes a key cutout 163 ([Fig.6]) which fits the cartridge key 162 of the cartridge 114, as described in [Fig. 4B].

[0091] Figure 5 is a perspective view of the cartridge 114, according to an example. The cartridge 114 has a round, cylindrical body and a nozzle 160 at one end. The nozzle 160 is further disposed near a cartridge key 162. The cartridge key 162 fits inside the opening of the cartridge gear. 116 corresponds to the shape of the key cutout 163 of the cartridge gear 116 and locks the rotational motion of the portion near one end of the cartridge 114 with that of the cartridge gear 116. The cartridge gear 116 is driven by the motor gear 124 and the motor 112. A second end of the cartridge 114 includes a base key 164. The base key 164 fits inside the base key cutout 165 of the bottom plate 166, latches the second end of the cartridge 114 to the bottom plate 166, and prevents the rotational motion of the second end of the cartridge 114 relative to the bottom plate 166. Since the first end of the cartridge 114 is latched to the motion of the cartridge gear 116, actuation of the motor 112 rotates the gear motor 124 drives cartridge gear 116, thus opening and closing nozzle 160 of cartridge 114.The first and second ends of the cartridge 114 can rotate relative to each other.

[0092] The cartridge 114 contains and dispenses a quantity of cosmetic material into the powder compact 108 as needed (described in more detail in Figure 9). The cartridge 114 dispenses the cosmetic material by means of the rotation of the cartridge gear 116, while the cartridge 114 remains in place substantially vertically along the Y-axis. The cartridge gear 116 is driven by the motor gear 124, which is rotated by the rotation of the motor 112. The amplitude of rotation of the motor 112 is controlled by the control device 150.

[0093] A quantity of cosmetic material is released from the cartridge 114 through the nozzle 160 by a first rotational movement of the first end relative to the second end of the cartridge 114. The rotational movement of the first end of the cartridge 114 in a second direction, opposite to the first rotational movement, can close the nozzle 160 of the cartridge 114.

[0094] The cartridge gear 116 actuates the nozzle 160 of the cartridge 114, which is attached to a hollow cartridge leadscrew 202 inside the cartridge 114. The rotation of the cartridge leadscrew 202 proportionally displaces a cartridge piston 200, which pushes a quantity of cosmetic material through the cartridge leadscrew 202 and out of the nozzle 160 of the cartridge 114. The amount of cosmetic material released during an opening and closing operation of the nozzle 160 is a function of the displacement of the cartridge leadscrew 202, which depends on the rotational displacement of the cartridge gear 116. The rotation of the motor 112 rotates the respective motor gear 124 and cartridge gear 116.The control device 150 detects the relative movement of the cartridge gear 116 by using the optical encoder 192 to count a number of cartridge gear slots 148 that pass in front of the optical encoder 192 when the cartridge gear 116 rotates, and . the direction of rotation of the cartridge gear 116. A specific unit of measurement for cosmetic material is a dose unit 118.

[0095] In one example, the pitch of the lead screw of cartridge 202 is about 1 mm, one complete rotation of the lead screw of cartridge 202 distributing about 1 ml of cosmetic material from cartridge 114.

[0096] In another example, because of the shape of the cartridge key 162 of the cartridge 114, the circumferential groove 134 may be a notch or groove around a portion of the circumference of the cartridge 114, rather than extending entirely around the perimeter of the cartridge 114 to secure the cartridge 114 to the trigger plunger 146 in substantially the same way.

[0097] Figure 6 is a perspective view of the cartridge gear 116, according to an example. The cartridge gear 116 may be a spur gear that includes a keyway 163 that corresponds to the shape of the cartridge key 162 of the cartridge 114. The cartridge gear 116 may also have a collar 168 that rotatably connects to an inner surface of the gear housing 170 to align and support the position of the cartridge gear 116 and the corresponding motor gear 124. The cartridge gear 116 may have a plurality of cartridge gear slots 148 for use with the optical encoder 192 to detect the angular position of the cartridge gear 116 and the cartridge leadscrew 202.

[0098] Fig. 7A is a perspective view of the bottom plate 166, according to an example. The bottom plate 166 is connected to the dispenser body 106 and / or to the lower body section 154, retains the plurality of cartridges 114 arranged inside the cosmetic dispenser 100, and connects the cosmetic dispenser 100 to the induction plate 176 arranged under the bottom plate 166.

[0099] The bottom plate 166 has a plurality of cartridge through holes 172 to allow the insertion, removal and lashing of the plurality of cartridges 114. Each cartridge through hole 172 includes a basic key cutout 165, and the shape of the basic key cutout 165 corresponds to the shape of the basic key 164 of each cartridge 114 to prevent rotational movement of the second end of the cartridge 114, the portion being in contact with the bottom plate 166, when the cartridge 114 is installed in the cosmetic dispenser 100.

[0100] In addition, the bottom plate 166 has contact pins 174 (shown in [Fig. 7B]) which make contact with the induction plate, supplying electricity to the bottom plate 166, allowing the cosmetic dispenser 100 to charge the plurality of batteries 126 by contact or induction.

[0101] Figure 7B is a perspective view of the bottom plate 166, viewed from below, according to an example. The bottom plate 166 includes three through-cartridge holes 172 arranged inside the plate, and contact pins 174. When the bottom plate 166 is arranged inside the cosmetic dispenser and on the base 102, the contact pins 174 can conduct electricity from the base 102 to the bottom plate 166. The bottom plate 166 can then inductively charge the plurality of batteries 126 arranged above the bottom plate 166.

[0102] The [Fig.8] is a perspective view of base 102, according to an example. A power cord 104 is connected at one end to the base 102. The power cord 104 is connected at the other end to a power source (not shown), providing power for the operation of the cosmetic dispenser 100 and for charging the plurality of batteries 126. The base 102 includes a base indentation 128 for the placement of the induction plate 176 and other portions of the cosmetic dispenser 100. The base indentation 128 can inductively charge the plurality of batteries 126 using the power supplied by the power cord 104. In addition, it can also charge the cosmetic dispenser 100 via contact pins 174 arranged inside the bottom plate 166 when the bottom plate 166 is positioned within the base indentation 128.

[0103] [Fig. 9A] is an exploded perspective view of the powder compact 108, arranged above a collector 130, according to an example. The powder compact 108 includes a top cover 180, a powder compact base 182, and a bottom cover 184. The top cover 180 is arranged above the powder compact base 182, which is arranged above or inside the bottom cover 184. The top cover 180 is attached to the powder compact base 182 by magnets, as described in more detail in [Fig. 9B]. The powder compact base 182 includes a plurality of through holes in the powder compact base 138. In this example, there is one through hole in the powder compact base 138 for each cartridge 114 in the cosmetic dispenser 100. The bottom cover 184, having a plurality of through holes in the bottom cover 136, is arranged under the powder compact base 182.In this example, there is a through hole in the bottom cover 136 for each cartridge 114 in the cosmetic dispenser 100, and the bottom cover 184 is arranged so that each through hole in the bottom cover 136 corresponds to and is connected to a through hole in the powder compact base 138 of the powder compact base 182.

[0104] The powder container 108 is connected to the manifold 130, the manifold 130 being connected to and disposed above the gear housing 170, further disposed inside the dispenser body 106 of the cosmetic dispenser 100, and the powder container 108 is disposed above both the manifold 130 and the dispenser body 106. The manifold 130 includes a manifold through hole 132 for each cartridge 114 in the cosmetic dispenser 100, and the manifold 130 is disposed such that Each collector through hole 132 corresponds to and is connected to a powder base through hole 136 of the bottom cover 184. In addition, each collector through hole 132 of the collector 130 corresponds to and is disposed above a gear housing cartridge hole 178 of the gear housing 170, providing a passage through which the cosmetic material can be distributed from the nozzle 160 of each cartridge 114 through the collector 130, the bottom cover 184, and into the powder base 182.

[0105] The powder compact 108 may have a shape such that there is only one orientation in which the powder compact 108 can connect to the cosmetic dispenser 100. In another example, the shape of the powder compact 108 may connect to the powder compact 108 in more than one orientation.

[0106] In addition, the cosmetic product dispensed in the powder compact 108 can be prevented from flowing outwards by the use of a one-way duckbill valve 194 (not shown) disposed in each of the through holes in the base of the powder compact 136 in the bottom cover 184 of the powder compact 108.

[0107] Fig. 9B is a perspective view of the powder compact 108 in an open position, according to an example. The powder compact 108 includes a top cover 180, a powder compact base 182, a bottom cover 184, a plurality of hinge magnets 186a, 186b, 186c and 186d, a plurality of lid magnets 188a, 188b, 188c and 188d, and a plurality of mounting magnets 196a, 196b and 196c.

[0108] In one example, the powder compact base 182, the plurality of mounting magnets 196a to 196c, a first half of the plurality of lid magnets 188b and 188d, and a first half of the plurality of hinge magnets 186b and 186d, are arranged inside the bottom lid 184, with the powder compact base 182 arranged above. The plurality of mounting magnets 196a-196c are arranged to magnetically connect the powder compact 108 to the cosmetic dispensing device 100, for example by connecting it to the collector 130 ([Fig. 9A]). The collector 130, or portions of the surface of the collector 130, may be formed of a ferrous material or contain corresponding magnets to attach magnetically to the plurality of mounting magnets 196a-196c.

[0109] A second half of the plurality of lid magnets 188a and 188c is arranged in one side of the top lid 180, and a second half of the plurality of hinge magnets 186a and 186c is arranged in one side of the top lid 180. The hinge magnets 186b and 186d are arranged in one side of the bottom lid 184 so that they can be in contact with the corresponding hinge magnets 186a and 186c in at least two planes, depending on a relative position between the top lid 180 and the bottom lid 184. The hinge magnets 186a and 186b have opposite magnetic polarity, as do the pairs respective hinge magnets 186c and 186d, lid magnets 188a and 188b, and lid magnets 188c and 188d.

[0110] The plurality of 196 and the plurality of lid magnets 188 to 188d can be arranged so that the plurality of through-holes in the bottom lid 138 arranged in the base of the powder compact 182 are not obstructed to allow the cosmetic material to flow from each of the cartridges 114 into the powder compact 108 when the cosmetic material is dispensed.

[0111] When the powder compact 108 is in the open position, the top cover 180 and the bottom cover 184 are positioned approximately in perpendicular planes, with the hinge magnets 186a and 186c magnetically connected to the hinge magnets 186b and 186d, respectively. The magnetic force between each pair of hinge magnets 186a and 186b and between the hinge magnets 186c and 186d is sufficient to hold the top cover 180 in position relative to the bottom cover 184.

[0112] In the case where the powder compact 108 is in the closed position, the top cover 180 and the bottom cover 184 are positioned approximately in parallel planes, the hinge magnets 186a and 186c are magnetically connected to the hinge magnets 186b and 186d, respectively, and the lid magnets 188a and 188c are arranged in corresponding positions and magnetically connected to the lid magnets 188b and 188d, respectively, the magnetic connection between the pairs of hinge magnets 186a and 186b and hinge magnets 186c and 186d, and between the pair of lid magnets 188a and 188b, and the pair of lid magnets 188c and 188d, being sufficient to keep the top cover 180 connected to the bottom cover 184 in a closed position.

[0113] Since the top cover 180 is magnetically connected to the bottom cover 184, the top cover 180 can be completely removed from the bottom cover 184. Furthermore, it can also be able to connect to the bottom cover 184 in a closed position in more than one orientation around the xz plane, depending on the arrangement of the plurality of hinge magnets 186 to 186d and lid magnets 188 to 188d in the top cover 180 and the bottom cover 184. In addition, the top cover 180 can be able to pivot around the bottom cover 184, or vice versa, opening or closing around more than one axis, for example around the x-axis or the z-axis.

[0114] Alternatively, the plurality of mounting magnets 196a-196c can be replaced by a mounting magnet 196 of sufficient strength to attach the powder container 108 to the cosmetic dispensing device 100.

[0115] Alternatively, the plurality of hinge magnets 186 to 186d can be replaced by a hinge magnet 186a of sufficient strength in the top cover 180 and by a hinge magnet 186b of sufficient strength in the bottom cover 184 to latch one side of the top cover 180 to the bottom cover 184 with the powder compact 108 in an open or closed position.

[0116] Alternatively, the plurality of lid magnets 188 to 188d can be replaced by a lid magnet 188a of sufficient strength in the top lid 180 and by a lid magnet 188b of sufficient strength in the bottom lid 184 to latch one side of the top lid 180 to the bottom lid 184 with the powder compact 108 in a closed position.

[0117] Figure 10 is a diagram representing an example of a primary process sequence of a cosmetic formulation process 900, according to an example. The examples provided in this document each include three cartridges, although the same process can be used by the cosmetic dispenser 100 equipped with any number of cartridges 114. The cosmetic formulation process 900 includes a detection process S920, a selection process S940, and a dispensing process S960. An additional mixing process S980 can be performed by a user.The detection process S920, the selection process S940 and the distribution process S960 are executed by the cosmetic device 100 on the basis of orders received from the control device 150, the control device 150 sending data to the user and receiving inputs from the user through the intelligent device 300 or through LEDs on the cosmetic device 100 itself, as described in [Fig.3] and Figure 4.

[0118] Figure 11 is a process diagram representing an example of a cosmetic material detection process in the cosmetic dispenser 100, according to an example. S920 represents a cosmetic material detection process. The process S920 may include at least one of the following steps: step 921 of detecting the removal and installation of a cartridge 114, step 922 of detecting at least one material characteristic of the cartridge 114, an optional step 923 of detecting a quantity of cosmetic material in the cartridge 114, and an optional step 924 of calculating an estimated depletion of the cartridge(s) after the completion of a future dispensing operation.

[0119] The optional step 923 of detecting a quantity of material in each of a plurality of cartridges 114 may include, for example, step 923a of detecting a quantity of material in a cartridge A, step 923b of detecting a quantity of material in a cartridge B, and step 923c of detecting a quantity of material in a cartridge C, for example on the basis of the total net displacement (rotation) of the cartridge gear 116 detected by the optical encoder 192 since the installation of each cartridge 114.

[0120] The optional step 924 of detecting at least one material characteristic in each of a plurality of cartridges 114 may include, for example, step 924a of detecting at least one material characteristic of cartridge A, step 924b of detecting at least one material characteristic of cartridge B, and step 924c of detecting at least one material characteristic of cartridge C. The material characteristics may include at least one characteristic from the set consisting of color, texture, luster, moisture content, nutrient content, and chemical formulation. This detection may be performed on the basis of a near-field sensor disposed in the dispenser 100 which detects an RFID tag on the cartridge that stores information on the cartridge's contents according to methods well known in the art.Various detection methods can be used, such as detecting a barcode printed on the cartridge, or detection using methods well known in the art. The step of detecting at least one material characteristic in each cartridge can be carried out before the optional step of detecting the quantity of cosmetic material in each cartridge.

[0121] In addition, the S920 process may include the optional step 926 of reporting information which may be derived from historical user usage data or aggregated on groups of users, such as the cartridge 114 of the cosmetic dispenser 100 which is expected to be exhausted first and on what date.

[0122] Figure 12A is a process diagram representing an example of the S940 process for selecting a cosmetic formulation. The S940 process includes a cosmetic formulation selection process. The S940 process includes steps for identifying possible combinations of cosmetic formulations based on the type and quantities of cosmetic materials present in the cosmetic dispenser 100, as established by the S920 detection process.

[0123] A step 942d may be based on a user selection of a set of cosmetic formulations that are possible for the types and quantities of cosmetic materials present in the cosmetic dispenser 100, or a step 942c allows the user to choose from a wider set of cosmetic material inventory 204 that is possible for the types and quantities of cosmetic materials that the cosmetic dispenser 100 is capable of using.

[0124] In another example, a step 943 of process S940 includes the possibility for a user to choose a desired dose unit 118. Varying the dose unit 118 can modify the set of cosmetic formulations available inside the cosmetic dispenser 100 if a larger quantity of one or more materials cosmetics requires that available to dispense a specific quantity of 118 dose units for a specific cosmetic formulation.

[0125] For example, if cartridge A contains a yellow cosmetic material, cartridge B a red cosmetic material and cartridge C a green cosmetic material, and there is only one dose unit 118 left of cartridge A, the user will not be able to choose to dispense any combination of dose units 118 and cosmetic formulation requiring more than one dose unit 118 of yellow cosmetic material.

[0126] In addition, the S940 process may include a step 942a allowing the user to select a cosmetic formulation based on a photographic match, a step 942b allowing the user to select a cosmetic formulation based on recommendations, or to select a cosmetic formulation based on some other process. US Patent No. 8,634,640 describes a method for selecting a color from an image or photograph in a camera or electronic device, and the use of color reference data to substantially match the color.

[0127] In another embodiment, a skin diagnosis (sometimes referred to herein as a skin profile) can be performed to provide a recommended range of predetermined colors that the user can select based on an analysis of the user's skin characteristics. The skin diagnosis determines a suitable color for the user based on an imaging procedure performed on the user's face. Examples of skin diagnosis tools known in the art include: Lancôme's Diagnos ABS, HR Skinscope, Biotherm's Bluesmart, Kiehl's Skinprofiler VO, CA Dermanalyzer, and Vichyconsult.

[0128] For cosmetic formulations that are possible but not available based on the results of the S920 detection process, the cosmetic dispenser 100 can communicate to the user the cosmetic materials needed to dispense such cosmetic formulations.

[0129] In one example, at step 944, the user selects a dose unit 118 of a cosmetic formulation that is not currently available. Step 944 can determine which cosmetic materials, such as the type of cartridges 114, are needed to mix and dispense the selected cosmetic formulation.

[0130] In another example, step 944 can determine which additional cosmetic formulations can become available if a specific cartridge 114 is replaced with a full but otherwise identical cartridge 114.

[0131] In another example, step 944 can determine which additional cosmetic formulations can become available if a cartridge 114 is replaced by another cartridge 114 containing a different cosmetic material.

[0132] Step 945 determines whether to proceed to step 947 to invite the user to confirm and continue the dispensing of a cosmetic formulation or to proceed to step 946 to indicate which cartridge(s) 114 are needed to dispense the desired cosmetic formulation, based on the result of step 944.

[0133] Figure 12B shows an optional process S940b which is carried out by the dispensing device 100 alone once a cosmetic formulation has been previously received and is currently stored on the dispensing device 100 in a step 948. The remaining steps 943 to 947 of S940b are identical to those of S940 described in Figure 12A. The process in Figure 12B can be carried out without an existing connection being established between the dispensing device 100 and the device 300.

[0134] Figure 13 is a process diagram representing an example of process S960 for dispensing cosmetic product in a cosmetic dispenser 100, according to an example. Step 961 represents a dispensing step of at least one unit dose of a cosmetic formulation. Process S960 includes steps 962a to 962c of ejecting a required quantity of cosmetic material from at least one cartridge 114 to produce a cosmetic formulation selected by the user in process S940, so that the cosmetic formulation can be applied, transported in a container, or otherwise made available to the user. Process S960 includes optional steps 963a to 963c of detecting the remaining quantity of cosmetic material in each of the cartridges and optional step 964 of recording the results in a memory of the dispensing device.

[0135] Once the S960 dispensing process is complete, the user can perform the S980 process of manually mixing the released cosmetic material, producing the required cosmetic formulation.

[0136] Figure 14 is a diagram representing an example of a connected cosmetic dispensing system. A system 400, which implements the cosmetic dispenser 100 described above, includes at least the cosmetic dispenser 100 and a connected device 300. Optionally, the system may further include one or more external servers 410 that are implemented within a cloud computing environment. In addition, the system may optionally include a cosmetic materials inventory 204, which is an inventory of possible cosmetic materials that can be inserted into the cosmetic device 100.

[0137] The connected device 300 can be a personal computer (PC), a laptop computer, a PDA (personal digital assistant), a smartphone, a tablet, a UMPC (ultra-mobile personal computer), a netbook, or a notebook-type personal computer. In the examples below, the connected device 300 is assumed to be a tablet, such as an Apple iPad.

[0138] The connected device 300 is capable of wireless communication with the cosmetic dispenser 100 via a wireless communication interface circuit 774 on the cosmetic dispenser 100. However, the connected device 300 is also capable of a wired connection with the cosmetic dispenser 100 via a USB interface 776 on the device 100. In addition, each device, including the cosmetic dispenser 100, can communicate with other devices and with external devices via an Internet connection using an 802.11 wireless connection to a wireless Internet access point, or a physical connection to the Internet access point, for example, via an Ethernet interface. Each connected device 300 is capable of wireless communication with other devices, for example, via a Bluetooth connection or other wireless means.

[0139] The connected device 300 is configured to receive information from a user in order to use it to generate a cosmetic formulation which will be used by the cosmetic dispenser 100 to dispense a cosmetic product into the powder compact 108.

[0140] Figure 15 is a functional diagram representing the circuitry of the control device 150 and the cosmetic dispenser 100, by way of example. A central processing unit (CPU) 710 provides primary control over the separate circuitry components included in the device, such as a dispenser control circuitry 740 (which may include control circuitry for the motors 112, circuitry for the optical encoder 192, and induction sensor circuitry). The central unit 710 can also control an optional input / output device 772 (such as a keyboard or mouse), a memory 780, the wireless communication interface circuitry 774, the universal serial bus (USB) control device 776, an LED driver 778 and a display module 780. The LED driver 778 controls the pulse of one or more LEDs 122.

[0141] In one embodiment, the circuitry includes, among other things, one or more computing devices such as a processor (for example, 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.

[0142] In one embodiment, a module includes one or more ASICs having a plurality of predefined logic components.

[0143] In one embodiment, a module includes one or more FPGAs, each having a plurality of programmable logic components.

[0144] In one embodiment, the circuitry includes one or more components operationally coupled (for example, communicatively, electromagnetically, magnetically, ultrasonically, optically, inductively, electrically, capacitively, wirelessly, or similarly) to each other.

[0145] In one embodiment, the circuitry includes one or more components located at a distance.

[0146] In one embodiment, the components located at a distance are operationally coupled, for example, via wireless communication, as with a connected device 300.

[0147] In one embodiment, the components located at a distance are operationally coupled, for example, via one or more communication modules, receivers, transmitters, transceivers, or the like.

[0148] In one embodiment, any of the central processing unit 710 or other components shown in [Fig. 15] may be replaced by variants of circuitry elements. Examples of circuits 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), disk-based read-only memory (CD-ROM), or the like), persistent memory, or the like. Other non-limiting examples of memory include programmable and erasable read-only memory (EPROM), flash memory, etc.

[0149] In one embodiment, the memory is coupled, for example, to one or more computing devices by one or more instructions, information or power buses.

[0150] In one embodiment, the circuitry includes one or more computer-readable media readers, interface jacks, USB (Universal Serial Bus) ports, memory card slots or other slots, and one or more input / output components such as, for example, a graphical user interface, a screen, a keyboard, a numeric keypad, a trackball, a gamepad, a touch screen, a mouse, a switch, a dial or other, and any other peripheral device.

[0151] In one embodiment, a module includes one or more user input / output components that are operationally coupled to at least one computer device configured to control (electrical, electromechanical, (implementation by software, implementation by firmware, or other control, or combinations thereof) at least one associated parameter, for example, with the determination of one or more thermal properties of the fabric in response to detected shifts in the energizing voltage.

[0152] In one embodiment, the circuitry includes a computer-readable media reader or memory location that is configured to accept a signal-carrying medium (for example, a computer-readable memory medium, a computer-readable recording medium, or similar).

[0153] In one embodiment, a program for causing a system to execute any of the disclosed processes 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 recordable media such as magnetic tape, floppy disk, hard drive, disc (CD), digital video disc (DVD), Blu-ray disc, digital tape, computer memory, or the like, as well as transmission media such as digital or analog communication media (for example, fiber optic cable, waveguide, wired communication link, wireless communication link (for example, receiver, transmitter, 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, compact video 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 similar.

[0154] In one embodiment, the circuitry includes acoustic transducers, electroacoustic transducers, electrochemical transducers, electromagnetic transducers, electromechanical transducers, electrostatic transducers, photoelectric transducers, radioacoustic transducers, thermoelectric transducers or ultrasonic transducers.

[0155] In one embodiment, the circuitry includes electrical circuitry operationally coupled to a transducer (for example, an actuator, a motor, a piezoelectric crystal, a microelectromechanical system (MEMS), etc.)

[0156] In one embodiment, the circuitry includes electrical circuitry comprising at least one discrete electrical circuit, electrical circuitry comprising at least one integrated circuit, or electrical circuitry comprising at least one application-specific integrated circuit.

[0157] In one embodiment, the circuitry includes electrical circuitry forming a universal computing device configured by a computer program (for example, a universal computer configured by a computer program that executes at least partially processes and / or devices described in this document, or a microprocessor configured by a computer program that executes at least partially processes and / or devices described in this document), electrical circuitry forming a memory device (for example, forms of memory (e.g., RAM, flash, ROM, etc.), electrical circuitry 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.

[0158] [PERSONALIZED COSMETIC ECOSYSTEM]

[0159] Fig. 16 shows the components of ecosystem 1600 that are common to each Product type. The ecosystem includes the dispenser 1610, a user smartphone device 1620, and a cloud platform 1630. The smartphone is shown to include two functional blocks: smartphone app configuration (“app”) 1621 and smartphone app usage 1622. Smartphone app configuration 1621 will be described in detail below with respect to various personalization examples and consists of establishing the initial configuration information to set up a user profile. This configuration information can then be used when the smartphone app is used and can also be sent to the cloud platform 1630 to be used in sending a selection of styles relevant to the user.

[0160] The use of the smartphone application itself implies that the user actually makes selections that lead to the determination of a color, and that they engage in interactive communication with the dispenser, such as sending the recipe to the dispenser and monitoring the dispenser's status (such as inventory and the remaining volume of cartridges in the dispenser). The smartphone application also performs interactive communication with the cloud platform. For example, the smartphone application can receive the selection of relevant styles described above, and it can also provide direct feedback from the user on the styles that the cloud platform has previously sent, and it can notify the cloud platform of the colors and recipes actually selected by the user and dispensed by the dispenser.Such feedback can provide a form of machine learning for the cloud platform and improve the algorithms it uses.

[0161] [CUSTOM LIPSTICK ECOSYSTEM]

[0162] Figure 17 shows the ecosystem (1700) described above, the objective of which is to suggest a trendy lipstick color to the consumer after analyzing social media trends by combining preferred colors, geolocation, favorite influencers, past selections, and likes. It allows the consumer to choose a color based on a style, try it on virtually, and adjust it if necessary, ultimately producing the formula on-site with a connected dispenser. It is also possible to suggest a color based on the user's outfit, scanned with a selfie. The consumer can save their favorite colors and share them with their online community.

[0163] Figure 17 shows that the user's smartphone ultimately delivers a recipe to the dispensing device via a smartphone application ("app"). The smartphone app interacts with both the connected dispenser and a cloud platform. Before a user performs normal operations (use) of the smartphone app, the app must be configured (1710) with configuration information to set up a user profile. The app configuration can be based on the following configuration entries.

[0164] - Welcome questionnaire (such as favorite color),

[0165] - Social media identity credentials (such as Instagram, Twitter, Facebook),

[0166] - Favorite influencers to follow the color,

[0167] - Geolocation based on local fashion,

[0168] - Environmental data (UV index, pollution, humidity, pollen).

[0169] Configuration entries are used during regular use of the app on the smartphone, but they are also transmitted to a cloud platform, which may be an external server device connected via the Internet.

[0170] Actual use of the smartphone app (1720) includes selecting a lipstick selection mode. In this example, the modes include a mode for selecting a trending social media recommendation using algorithms that run on the cloud platform (discussed in detail later). Another mode allows the user to create their own lipstick color using a wide variety of color options.

[0171] Another mode allows the user to match a lipstick color to their "style" based on a self-portrait photo. In this example, the shade and finish selection is extracted from the provided photo. The user can virtually try on the lipstick in real time and adjust the displayed color. When the user is satisfied with the color, they can press a button displayed on the app to dispense the formula and an internal neural network. The requested color will be broken down into different doses of color cartridges. Once the recipe is sent to the dispenser and the lipstick shade is dispensed, the user can apply the lipstick.

[0172] After applying the lipstick, the user can use the application to indicate whether or not they liked the result. The user can also save their favorite style and color for later use, and the user can share their style and color on the web via a social media platform.

[0173] The cloud platform implements functions shown in 1730, such as a remote algorithm workflow and an improvement process.

[0174] In the workflow performed by the cloud platform, personal social media accounts (influencers, trending styles) can be harvested to find data related to lipstick colors. The cloud platform can analyze one or more collected images to extract an average makeup color (lip color, foundation color, hair color) using a deep learning algorithm to segment lip makeup finishes. For example, the cloud platform can accomplish this by first detecting lips in a plurality of images using a technique known in art (such as that described in US Patent No. 5,805,745).The cloud platform can then compare an extracted color with the colors most favored by one or more user communities, while also taking into account user configuration input received from the user's smartphone. Considering all the collected data, the final step for the cloud platform is to send the user the analysis results in the form of the selection of relevant styles mentioned above.

[0175] In the improvement process carried out by the cloud platform and the smartphone app, the user can save their favorite styles and "like" popular colors to enrich the harvesting algorithms for subsequent relevant recommendations. The cloud platform can then aggregate all user feedback and send new users the trendiest formulations by location area.

[0176] The operations of the dispenser at block 1740 are already described in detail above, but are summarized as follows. The dispenser receives an order to dispense a certain proportion of each cartridge. The dispenser dispenses the top portion, and the user can mix it to obtain the desired color. The dispenser returns the remaining inventory of the formula to the consumer application to ensure that only dispensable colors are available in the user interface when the user makes a selection.

[0177] Figure 18A shows an example of a flow of operations in the ecosystem described above for distributing a personalized lipstick shade from the app's point of view. At step 1810, the user can select a "mode" as discussed above, which can be a mode of selecting a social media trending recommendation by algorithms that are running in the cloud; allowing the user to create their own lipstick color using a wide variety of color options; or allowing the user to match a lipstick color to their "style" based on a self-portrait photo.

[0178] Step 1820 shows an example of the display when the mode is chosen to select a trending style powered by an AI algorithm from the cloud platform. Step 1820 also shows that a menu is provided at the bottom of the interface to allow the user to switch between the modes described above.

[0179] Step 1830 shows an example of a display where the user has selected a potential hue and is allowed to adjust the hue using an appropriate adjustment mechanism, such as a color palette or slider. The hue can be shown on the user's self-portrait.

[0180] Step 1840 shows that once a color is finally selected by the user, the color is broken down into a combination of the available colors contained in the cartridges of the dispensing device, and then the recipe is passed to the dispensing device for dispensing.

[0181] Figure 18B shows a further flowchart of how the algorithms of the lipstick ecosystem's smartphone app can enable a user to visualize a lipstick shade on the user's selfie. A recipe prediction module 1860 ("Module 2") can receive as inputs the device's dispensing capacity, which is the set of three lipstick ingredient cartridges currently inside the dispensing device. Another input can be the mass tone color of the dilution mixtures, which represent the actual color values ​​that can be produced by the ingredients in the cartridge. The output of Module 2 is a list of recipes (actual quantities dispensed from each cartridge) and a corresponding predicted RGB mass tone color resulting from each recipe.Module 1 (1870) can then project how the lipstick will look on the user's actual lips based on the RGB mass tone color of a recipe and the user's lip color (lip tone), resulting in a list of recipes and a corresponding applied RGB color. The relationship between the mass tone color and the applied color based on the user's lip color can be predetermined and stored in advance. Thus, what can be... presented to the user on the display is a palette based on an RGB color universe as shown in 1890.

[0182] Fig. 18C further illustrates how the specific set of cartridges can give rise to different color universes to be presented to the user.

[0183] Figure 18D shows how the "match my style" mode can work on the app within the lipstick ecosystem. In step 1881, a user can enter a self-portrait image that includes the user's outfit. A recommendation can be generated in different ways depending on color recognition and / or the type of outfit in the image. For example, a first approach ("Approach 1") in step 1882 can use the 7 rules of color science and harmony to target the formation of a certain type of relationship between the lipstick shade and the colors of the outfit based on the relationships of the color wheel, as illustrated in Approach 1. Alternatively, in step 1883, a predetermined palette can be presented based on a makeup artist's recommendation for a seasonal style of the outfit in combination with the color of the outfit.

[0184] Figure 18E shows further details on the operation of the lipstick recommendation engine based on the user's self-portrait of their outfit. In step 1891, probes can be defined by the user at different points on the outfit, where only one probe can have priority. In step 1892, a different color palette can be assigned to each probe based on the makeup artist's recommendation palettes, or based on a predetermined color wheel relationship, as shown in Figure 18D. As seen in step 1893, the output can recommend colors based on the set of cartridges installed in the dispensing device, and based on the number and priority of the probes that the user has decided to use.If desired, the user can also swipe to browse the options that would be available in other color wheels if other cartridge sets were used. This may encourage the user to purchase a new cartridge set.

[0185] [PERSONALIZED SKINCARE ECOSYSTEM]

[0186] Figure 19 shows the ecosystem described above (1900), the objective of which is to offer the user a skincare formulation that is most effective for them based on their geolocation, environmental factors, cumulative UV exposure, and clinical signature assessed with a smartphone or dermatologist's diagnosis. The system adjusts the proportion of active ingredients to obtain the most effective formula for daily use. The user can save their favorite colors and share them with their online community.

[0187] Figure 19 shows that a user's smartphone ultimately delivers a recipe to the dispensing device via a smartphone app ("app"). The smartphone app interacts with both the connected dispenser and a cloud platform. Before a user performs normal operations (use) of the smartphone app, the app must be configured (1910) with configuration information to set up a user profile. The app configuration can be based on the following configuration entries.

[0188] - Welcome questionnaire (such as favorite color),

[0189] - Analysis of skincare by a dermatologist or by AI algorithms to starting from a self-portrait,

[0190] - Geolocation based on the phone's location detection function clever,

[0191] - Environmental data (UV index, pollution, humidity, pollen).

[0192] Configuration entries are used during regular use of the app on the smartphone, but they are also transmitted to a cloud platform, which may be an external server device connected via the Internet.

[0193] Actual use of the smartphone app (1920) includes the collection of geolocation-based environmental data and its combination with a smartphone diagnostic assessing clinical signs (wrinkles, dark spots, firmness, pores, fine lines, dull appearance).

[0194] The user can also collect data from a UV sensor, such as a wearable UV sensor as described in US Patent No. 10,060,787, which will effectively provide an accurate measurement of cumulative UV exposure received. Based on historical skin assessment data and environmental factors, the app will process the ideal formulation to combat the signs of skin aging and protect against environmental factors. When the user is satisfied with the formulation, they can press a button displayed on the app to dispense it, and an internal neural network will break down the requested formula into different cartridge ingredients. Once the recipe is sent to the dispenser and the formulation is dispensed, the user can apply it. The user can provide feedback on their preferred formulations over a specific period of time.

[0195] The cloud platform implements the functions shown in 1930, such as a remote algorithm workflow and an improvement process. In the workflow performed by the cloud platform, based on environmental forecasts for UV, pollen, pollution, and temperature, specific notifications are sent to the app user to adjust the recipe. For example, there is a known correlation between environmental conditions and the aging of The skin (see “Assessing the impact of an aerial chronic urban pollution (UP) on some facial signs of differently-aged Chinese men” at www.researchgate.net, and “The skin aging exposome” at www.jdsjournal.com). Furthermore, by providing the user's geolocation input, which can provide an air quality determination using a tool such as Breezometer™ and a local UV index forecast (or UV exposure can be obtained based on a UV sensor described above), the cloud platform can adjust the recipe to account for environmental factors such as UV exposure and air quality. For example, [Fig. 20B] below shows examples of combinations of environmental factors and their correlation with the ingredients in the cartridges.

[0196] In the improvement process carried out by the cloud platform and the smartphone app, the user can save their favorite recipes that are the most effective over time or provide the best feel on the skin. The user can also share their recipes with the community.

[0197] The cloud platform can then aggregate all user feedback, and the platform can send new users the most trending formulations by location area.

[0198] The operations of the dispenser in block 1940 are already described in detail above, but are summarized as follows. The dispenser receives an order to dispense a certain proportion of each cartridge. The dispenser dispenses the top portion, and the user can mix it to obtain the desired color. The dispenser returns the remaining inventory of the formula to the consumer app to ensure that only dispensable ingredients are available in the user interface when the user makes a selection.

[0199] Figure 20A shows an example of the workflow in the ecosystem described above for dispensing a personalized skincare formulation from the app's perspective. In step 2010, the user can perform a skincare diagnosis as discussed above, which can be done by taking a 360° selfie or a series of photos from different angles using the smartphone's camera. In step 2020, the application performs an analysis of the user's skin to detect skin features such as dark spots, wrinkles, firmness, pores, fine lines, dullness, etc. A method for implementing deep learning to train and perform this type of detection is discussed in more detail below. Variations of known processes may also be used, such as those described in US patents No. 10,325,146 and 9,760,935.

[0200] Step 2030 shows the results of the analysis for one or more of the skin features that are analyzed. The results can be shown in the form of a score, which can be relative to people in the user's age range. For example, each skin characteristic can be presented on a five-point scale, and characteristics that represent a worse than average score can be highlighted as a priority for the user, while characteristics that are better than average can be presented as a strength.

[0201] Step 2040 shows that the application can present a recommended skincare formulation (“mixture”) that addresses the user’s priority skincare concerns while taking into account current environmental conditions. Once the formulation is finally selected by the user, the formulation is broken down into a combination of the available colors contained in the cartridges of the dispensing device, and then the recipe is passed to the dispensing device for dispensing in step 2050.

[0202] Figure 20B shows an example of how a combination of different environmental factors determined to be present for a user can lead to different dosage amounts from three different cartridges. In this example, the cartridges respectively include guiding ingredients for deep damage recovery, cell renewal, and daily protection against skin aggressors (which may include an SPF ingredient and a pollution protection ingredient). In this example, a fixed dose from cartridge 1 can always be used for efficacy, while the proportions of the other cartridges vary depending on the levels of UV or pollution present.

[0203] [CUSTOM FOUNDATION ECOSYSTEM]

[0204] Figure 21 shows an ecosystem 2100 that is used to dispense a personalized foundation for the user. The ecosystem 2100 uses a deep learning algorithm to measure the user's skin tone with a smartphone. By combining this with environmental information or makeup tutorials, the system can adjust throughout the year to consistently deliver the best foundation shade to the consumer that matches their tan level / skin tone variation. Based on weather forecasts and UV exposure, the device can also increase the skincare actives or SPF.

[0205] Figure 21 shows that the user's smartphone ultimately delivers a recipe to the dispensing device via a smartphone application ("app"). The smartphone app interacts with both the connected dispenser and a cloud platform. Before a user performs normal operations (uses) of the smartphone app, the app must be configured. (2110) with configuration information to set up a user profile. The app configuration can be based on the following configuration entries.

[0206] - Welcome questionnaire (such as favorite color),

[0207] - Detection of the user's skin tone using a 360° video and a skin tone algorithm,

[0208] - Geolocation based on the phone's location detection function clever,

[0209] - Environmental data (UV index, pollution, humidity, pollen).

[0210] Configuration data is used during regular use of the app on the smartphone, but it is also transmitted to a cloud platform, which may be an external server device connected to the Internet.

[0211] The actual use of the smartphone app (2120) includes the collection of geolocation-based environmental data and its combination with a smartphone diagnostic tool that assesses the user's skin tone. While methods for determining a user's skin tone to match a foundation are known in the art, a method described below, which is related to a deep learning process, will be discussed in detail. Depending on the user's skin condition, the app can determine to blend skincare actives with the foundation, such as SPF, when environmental conditions are not optimal. Based on the time of year and the person's tan level, the app determines to slightly adjust the foundation color to keep pace with changes in skin tone.When the color isn't perfect during the matching process, the user can send feedback to the cloud to remotely improve the algorithms. In some cases, the user may want to use the device to adjust the base color to achieve a specific makeup look by layering different colors.

[0212] The cloud platform implements functions shown in 2130, such as a remote algorithm workflow and an improvement process. In the workflow performed by the cloud platform, based on environmental forecasts for UV, pollen, pollution, and temperature, specific notifications are sent to the app user to adjust the recipe by adding SPF. The cloud platform can modify the user's master skin tone formula, which is sent when the consumer's tan level differs from the initial diagnosis.

[0213] In the improvement process carried out by the cloud platform and the smartphone app, the user can save their favorite recipes that are most effective over time or provide the best feel on the skin. The user can also share their recipes with the community. The platform In addition, the cloud can aggregate all user feedback, and the platform can send new users the most trending formulations by location area.

[0214] The operations of the dispenser in block 2140 are already described in detail above, but are summarized as follows. The dispenser receives an order to dispense a certain proportion of each cartridge. The dispenser dispenses the top portion, and the user can mix it to obtain the desired color. The dispenser returns the remaining inventory of the formula to the consumer app to ensure that only dispensable ingredients are available in the user interface when the user makes a selection.

[0215] Figure 22A shows an example of the flow of operations in the ecosystem described above for distributing a personalized foundation from the app's perspective. In step 2210, the user can perform a skin tone diagnostic as discussed above, which can be done by taking a 360° self-portrait or a series of photos from different angles using the smartphone's camera. In step 2220, the app performs a skin analysis of the user to detect skin tone and shade.

[0216] At step 2230, the app can present a recommended foundation (“mixture”) that matches the user's skin tone while taking into account current environmental conditions. Once the foundation is finally selected by the user, it is broken down into a combination of the available ingredients contained in the cartridges of the dispensing device, and then the recipe is transmitted to the dispensing device for dispensing at step 2240.

[0217] Figure 22B provides further details on the skin tone diagnosis procedure described above. In step 2211, the user makes a video recording of themselves until face detection is performed by the smartphone app. In step 2212, face detection is performed using known methods. If no face is detected, an error message is displayed to the user, who may be asked to adjust the camera angle or position relative to the user until face detection is achieved. Once face detection is complete, preprocessing is performed on 10 video data frames, where a normalization process and a zoom process are carried out to evaluate the specific features of the user's face.Normalization is a process that aligns all images to the same resolution, orientation width, lighting, etc. The goal of normalization is to make images comparable and ensure that the main algorithm will operate within the validated conditions / ranges, avoiding any outliers. A skin tone prediction model is then developed. The prediction is performed in step 2213 based on a median skin tone value detected in the 10 images used for prediction. Additionally, a prediction noise assessment is performed using a median approach to filter / average the noise. If the predicted noise is low, a LAB value for the skin tone is used to determine the mixture used to generate the foundation at the dispensing device. However, if the noise level is high, a safety backup questionnaire is triggered in step 2214, which requests a previous foundation that the user has used. The color of the previous foundation is then matched with a stored LAB value, which is used to determine the mixture used to generate the foundation at the dispensing device.

[0218] Figures 22C and D show further details on how deep learning is performed to enable the smartphone app (or cloud platform) to estimate skin tone in an image. The same process can also be used to enable a device to estimate a skin care condition in an image. In [Fig. 22C], training is performed for the deep learning model. Inputs are provided in step 2221, where photos (which can be 360° video self-portraits or photo self-portraits) are entered along with metadata associated with the input photo and external metadata. The metadata associated with the photo can include the date and time (and / or season), as well as an optional GPS location and an indication of whether the photo was taken indoors or outdoors. The external metadata can be historical climate data.Preprocessing is performed on the input images in step 2222, which may include face detection, centering and scaling, face recognition (depending on library availability), and lighting correction. In step 2223, the deep learning model performs photo-based training by learning the specifics of skin tone estimation. The deep learning model may also perform image selection to determine the scalar weight of the importance of selected images based on a group of images from the same user. The output of the deep learning model (2224) provides a weighted average of the skin tones of the selected images and the weights of image selection and post-processing.To adjust the model's accuracy, a measured skin color is entered into the system for the real user in the images to train the deep learning model.

[0219] Figure 22D shows the use of the deep learning model once training has reached an adequate level. This is referred to as the "inference time," since skin tone (or skin condition) will be inferred from the images without being able to perform a truth measure on the actual skin. the user. We can see that the steps of [Fig. 22D] are the same, except that there is no measurement of the user's skin color in the final step.

[0220] [SMART SWAPABLE CARTRIDGE SYSTEM]

[0221] The dispensing device described above allows for the intelligent and efficient exchange of consumable cartridges. The cartridges (consumables) used in the dispensing device described above are preferably managed in sets (such as sets of three cartridges). For example, there could be separate sets of cartridges for each of the lipstick, skincare, and foundation applications described above. In the system, the consumable sets are equipped with a smart chip or an electronic device configured to perform data storage and transmission / reception (such as NFC, RFID, or a contact chip). In the following description, an NFC (Near Field Communication) tag will be mentioned, but not limited to this example.Each cartridge has different cosmetic attributes and a unique formula identifier that can identify attributes such as shade / finish, texture, and skin / hair benefits. The attributes are stored on the integrated circuit during production and signed using an asymmetric cryptographic algorithm.

[0222] As discussed in detail below, the NFC tag applied to the cartridges manages the color universe for the user, multi-device use cases, and traceability. The tag will have two memory areas: one for production data (encoded during the filling process); and one for usage where the device will encode usage and tracking quantities. In addition, the following security mechanisms have been implemented: (i) ensuring that production data is not modified: sector editing is password-protected (secret password); (ii) ensuring that cartridge data is not duplicated in case of misappropriation: adding a signature mechanism using the UIID (unique identifier of the tag, the encoded data, the manufacturing secret key).The app using the device to read the cartridge will then verify that the signature comes from the manufacturing entity before authorizing distribution.

[0223] Fig. 23 shows a cartridge structure 2300, which is similar to the cartridge described above, but which further includes a region 2310, which is an area where metallization is not permitted, and an NFC (smart chip) tag 2320 which is set to adhere to the underside of the cartridge so as to be flat and without edges.

[0224] Figure 24 shows a data format of the data stored on the cartridge's NFC tag. The "OFF" column corresponds to an "offset," which represents the coordinates of the hexadecimal-encoded data. The "Page" represents consecutive blocks of data because the system can only fully read / write one page at a time. The format includes a tag identifier (tag ID) and Several fields. The data size included in the NFC tag is 56 bytes in this non-limiting example, but it can also be larger or smaller. The data format shows that there are information fields geared towards production information and other fields geared towards usage tracking.

[0225] Figure 25 shows a table that includes self-explanatory descriptions of the various fields contained in the NFC tag data format. Furthermore, "basic type" means the data type: for example, u8 means an 8-bit unsigned integer. "Ulel6" means a 16-bit unsigned integer. "Length" and "page" are the coordinates and allocation required in the NFC tag's memory page. For example, "u8" is an 8-bit encoded unsigned integer, which will require 8 bits of memory space in location 0 of page 0.

[0226] Figure 26 shows a structure of the dispensing device 2600, which is equipped with the intelligent interchangeable cartridge system. It can be seen that the dispensing device 2600 includes a contact / Hall effect sensor 2610 that detects and counts one open / close cycle of the lid to trigger the read and detection operations for consumable changes. The device further includes a communication interface 2620, which is in this case a specific NFC antenna, for each cartridge channel that can read and write information to the NFC tag of the cartridge at each dispensing.

[0227] Figure 27 shows a connection established between the dispensing device 2600 and the user's smartphone device 2710. The various triggers for initiating communication between the dispensing device and the smartphone can include a connection established between the devices (such as Bluetooth pairing), opening the lid of the dispensing device, a dispensing command from the smartphone app (such as one of the apps described above), or a dispensing command entered directly on the dispensing device. In response to the trigger, the connection establishment includes, in step 1, reading a consumption status of the cartridges stored on the dispensing device and sending the status to the smartphone. At the same time, the user experience is updated and sent to the smartphone.The "user experience" refers to the device's context in relation to the user viewing a specific interface that displays a fleeting menu when the lid is opened, the cartridge is empty, or the color wheel has the correct color available. In step 2, the smartphone can transmit or adjust a dispensing order to the dispensing device. In step 3, the dispensing device can transmit feedback on the actual dispensing to the smartphone. In step 4, the smartphone can transmit an instruction to update the NFC tags on the cartridges when a dispensing session is complete.

[0228] Figure 28 shows the consumer application state machine, which demonstrates a process, from the application's perspective, of priming the cartridges before any use of the dispensing device. In an initial priming step 2810, formulas can be dispensed in a predetermined sequence and / or simultaneously from each of the cartridges to verify that dispensing can be performed from each cartridge. In an additional priming step 2820, the user can practice clicking on a displayed color to order individual dispensing on demand. This operation can be performed to ensure that the correct color is detected in the correct channel within the device, so that recipes can be automatically assigned to the correct channel. Step 2830 shows a display, when priming is complete, of the status of the cartridges in the dispensing device.

[0229] Accordingly, the priming process can detect when a new cartridge has been installed and allows proper engagement with the plunger of the dispensing device and the formula contained in the cartridge, so that a correct dose can be dispensed when an actual mixture is created.

[0230] In addition, by detecting the exact cartridges that are installed, the cartridge set (such as the set of three cartridges) can be determined, and the color attributes (or skincare attributes) that are possible with the current set are automatically updated on the app.

[0231] The app can also manage consumables by suggesting or automatically performing pipe cleaning when a cartridge is changed. The app can also adapt the range of formulas in the user interface function according to the type of cartridge set installed.

[0232] In addition, the application state machine can detect inconsistent sets or missing cartridges. It can offer to purchase the missing set to obtain a result. It can automatically detect the expiration dates of all cartridges. Moreover, since security information is stored on the cartridge, it natively enables multi-user and multi-device capability, as each user's smartphone will independently detect the information on the cartridge.

[0233] During priming, the cartridges can also be authenticated. A 32-bit hash code is generated at production using a manufacturer's secret key, and the code is encoded on the cartridge's NFC tag. The smartphone includes a hard-coded secret key, which can be included in a software development kit (SDK), to verify the hash code when reading the NFC tag data transmitted by the dispensing device. The smartphone can also be hard-coded with the secret key if possible. An identification tag The item's unique identifier (UIID) can also be physically added to the cartridge or NFC tag (for example, as a barcode) and read by the dispensing device. If the cartridge authentication process fails, the dispensing device can send a notification to the smartphone.

[0234] In rare cases, the user may encounter a cartridge whose NFC tag is not read by the machine (encoding error, tag destruction, out-of-range device, or other fault). In this case, the user must be able to continue dispensing the formula and using their device as normally as possible. To ensure this tolerant default mode, a cartridge recovery mode requiring user input of the cartridge information will take over. The application using the SDK will then create a virtual cartridge to continue the dispensing algorithm. This automatically triggered recovery mode will be deactivated when a new cartridge is inserted or when NFC is again within range.

[0235] Figure 29 shows a method for managing a defective cartridge NFC tag in the scenario described above. If an error occurs in reading the NFC tag data, the process begins at step 2910 where the SDK installed on the smartphone activates a recovery mode for a particular channel in the dispensing device. At step 2911, the SDK attempts to write a new production sequence (by transmitting to the tag via the dispensing device) to the tag based on the last read value. At step 2912a, if the tag writing is successful, the process terminates. However, at step 2912b, if the label rewriting fails, the process proceeds to step 2940. At step 2913, the application displays a message asking the user to check that a cartridge is in a correct channel, and the dispensing device automatically opens the cover at step 2914.In other words, if the problem was that no cartridge was inserted, this step addresses that possibility. In step 2915, the user confirms the presence of a cartridge in the channel. If reading is still impossible, in step 2916, the user is prompted to select a cartridge color corresponding to a sticker on the cartridge. In step 2917, the user is asked to enter the batch ID and serial number of the cartridge, and to verify that the cartridge is new. In step 2918, the SDK creates a virtual cartridge for the channel number. Distribution operations can then proceed based on this virtual cartridge, which acts as a proxy for the NFC tag successfully read from the physical cartridge.At step 2919, the virtual cartridge will be stopped if the cartridge suddenly becomes readable for a predetermined number of consecutive distribution operations, or if the entire set of cartridges is changed.

[0236] [GAME]

[0237] The distribution device described above may include multiple "game" features that are not only useful for entertaining the user, but also provide valuable data and feedback for optimizing system features and delivering personalized results to the user. Color wheel games

[0238] Figures 30A to 30C show a game that uses the color wheel interface described above.

[0239] In a first game, shown in [Fig. 30A], a photograph of a mixed color is shown to the user (before being applied to a face). The user is asked to select a point on the color wheel that corresponds to the displayed color. Once the user has made their selection on the color wheel, the result is shown to the user in terms of the percentage match with the hue actually applied ([Fig. 30B]).

[0240] The "difference" between the user's selection on the color wheel and the color actually displayed can be based on a difference between the CIELAB coordinates. For example, a Euclidean distance between the points L*, a*, b* can be determined on the basis of the relative perceptual differences between any two colors in L*a*b*, which can be approximated by treating each color as a point in a three-dimensional space (with three components: L*, a*, b*) and taking the Euclidean distance between them.

[0241] In another form of this game, [Fig. 30C] shows a challenge where the user is asked to make a selection based on an image of a model wearing lipstick once a recipe has been dispensed by the dispensing device and mixed.

[0242] The advantage of this game is to train the user to better understand the color wheel so that there are not too many variations between the selection desired by the user and the actual result.

[0243] Another advantage is that user selections can be used to determine whether the displayed color wheel is itself correctly calibrated. For example, if a large number of users do not consistently make selections within a suitable threshold of the actual distributed mixed color, then adjustments can be made to the displayed color wheel.

[0244] Furthermore, if the user's device is collected, it is possible to determine whether the displays on different devices are set up differently, so that user selections diverge depending on their device. With this data, the application can make adjustments to the displayed color wheel based on the user's device type or operating system.

[0245] For example, [Fig. 31] shows a graph where data is collected concerning the user's color wheel selections for a displayed image such as those shown in Figures 30A or 30C. Furthermore, the correct color position on the color wheel is shown for comparison. It can be seen that in this example, the group of user selections is not centered on the correct color. If a centroid of a group of user selections is offset by a certain number of coordinates from an assumed correct color position on the color wheel, color correction may be necessary for mapping the colors displayed on the color wheel.

[0246] Figure 32 shows a flowchart based on the calibration feature of the game described above. In step 3101, the image shown in Figure 30A or 30C is displayed to a plurality of users for each separate instance of the game. When each user plays the game and provides input to the color wheel, the data for each user's selection point on the color wheel is transmitted to a central server (step 3012). This data can be analyzed once a threshold number of users have provided input to the same image. A group can be formed based on the total number of user inputs collected, and a centroid for the group is determined and compared to a coordinate position of the presumed correct point on the color wheel that would result in the specific recipe for generating the cosmetic formulation displayed in the image by the dispensing device.If the distance between the centroid and the correct position is greater than a predetermined threshold, the color wheel is recalibrated at step 3104. Otherwise, the process is repeated.

[0247] In one example, "adjustment" consists of remapping the color value associated in a color space (such as CIELAB) for each position on the displayed color wheel to a new color value in the color space to more accurately reflect what the user sees displayed on their screen. In other words, the "error" in the values ​​displayed on the color wheel compared to what the actual color will look like when a color is distributed by the system, or even in the displayed images shown in the game, represents a vector shift between the displayed color and the color value stored in the game application. Therefore, a vector shift can be performed for all color values ​​associated with the color positions displayed on the color wheel that is based on the difference in color space values ​​between the centroid of the group described above and the color of the target image.

[0248] Figure 33 shows a second type of "color wheel" set. In this game, three colors of ingredients dispensed from the cartridge are shown separately to the user. The user is then asked to guess the resulting color on the color wheel, which will be created based on the combination of colors.

[0249] Once the user has made a selection on the color wheel, the result is shown to the user that the actual hue is based on the combination of colors with a percentage match to the user's selection.

[0250] The advantage of this game is that it trains the user to understand what the result will be based on the combination of colors when the user looks at the colors separately. This can make the user more skilled in selecting specific cartridges to produce a desired hue.

[0251] Figure 34 shows a third type of game that also uses the color wheel. In this game, the user tries to guess the color to select on the color wheel by seeing other cosmetics applied to the model while the model's lips are masked. The hidden selection may be one made by a professional makeup artist. After the user selects the entry on the color wheel, the actual hidden shade of lipstick will be revealed, and a percentage of correct answers will be shown to the user. Over time, an average of the user's percentage correct answers will be calculated to determine an overall score.

[0252] The first advantage of the game shown in [Fig. 34] is that the user can develop an eye for how lipstick colors coordinate with other cosmetics. The game can be varied so that the user can select different professional makeup artists, allowing them to target a particular style or taste within the industry.

[0253] A second advantage of the game shown in [Fig. 34] is that each user's selections can be collected by a central server. This data can be very useful. For example, it can be used to learn about the preferences of the general public. For instance, with additional user data, such as the user's age, location, and other lifestyle habits, a cosmetics company can learn whether there are trends in user preferences based on different user categories and locations.

[0254] The data can also be useful if the model's distinctive features in the photo are taken into account. When large quantities of user selections are collected, it is possible to see if there is a trend in user selections based on the model's appearance (such as hair color, skin tone, nose type, cheekbone structure, and the like). User Design Challenges

[0255] A second game category is shown in [Fig. 35]. The game involves a user design challenge that can be based on a theme that can be described in an introductory screen 3501. The interface 3502 shows selectable regions of the face of a model, such as the lips, eyes, cheeks, face, eyebrows, and / or background.

[0256] Once the user has selected the region to adjust a cosmetic tint on the face of the displayed model, a screen 3503 is displayed which shows a color wheel which can adjust the displayed tint of the selected cosmetic.

[0257] Once the user has made further selections and adjustments to a different area of ​​the face (for example, moving to the eye area on screen 3504), the user can submit the 'style' to enter the challenge (see [Fig. 36A]).

[0258] Figure 36B shows that a screen can be displayed to the user asking them to vote on different styles. A community of users can vote on the best style for the challenge on a screen shown in Figure 36B to determine a winner or a ranking of the submissions.

[0259] For each submission, style statistics can be displayed, showing the color shade used for each cosmetic region. In addition, an internet link can be provided so that a user viewing a submitted style can purchase the cosmetic shades used in the style statistics.

[0260] Figure 37 shows a variant of the challenge with screens 3701, 3702, 3703, and 3704, which are analogous to the challenge shown in Figure 35. Figure 37 shows that the game can offer various adjustments other than changing the color on the color wheel. For example, on screen 3704, when modifying the eyes, one can "draw" eyeliner, eyeshadow, or mascara on the image using a specific virtual tool.

[0261] Figures 38 and 39 show examples of screens for different types of specific challenges for different themes. For each theme, a first screen (3801 or 3901) can provide the user with the option to play the challenge, and a second screen (3802 or 3902) can show the description, requirements, and rewards for the challenge. Additional screens to be displayed can include a voting screen (3803 or 3903) that shows different "styles" created by community users. Finally, a results screen (3804 or 3904) can be displayed to show the winning styles of the challenge as well as trending colors based on the data collected during the challenge.

[0262] The design challenge games described above are not solely for user entertainment. The voting system used in the game is rather a form of participatory production regarding the various cosmetic shades and styles preferred by users in a community. Furthermore, based on the models' appearance (such as hair color, skin tone, nose type, cheekbone structure, and the like), style proposals and voting can to provide information on the colours and styles that best suit different face types.

[0263] This data can be used for a practical application such as learning and creating recommendations when users seek advice on shades to use on their own face. For example, as shown in [Fig. 40], and similarly to the process described in [Fig. 22A] above, in step 4001, the user can take a self-portrait, a 360° self-portrait, or a series of photos from different angles using the smartphone's camera. In step 4001, the system performs a skin analysis of the user to detect the user's specific features. In step 4003, the system determines an image of a model used in design challenges that matches the user's specific features.At step 4004, the system determines the color(s) that received the most votes and were applied by users to the model image, and outputs the selected color(s) as a recommendation to the user. This is part of a game-based manufacturing optimization.

[0264] The above games collect valuable data on popular color shades selected by the user community, which is also valuable for setting up the production and supply of cartridges used in the distribution device described above.

[0265] For example, a popular color shade selected by users will be based on a specific mixture of two or three cosmetic formulations used in the dispensing device. When these formulations become increasingly frequent as source ingredients for the colors selected in the sets described above, this data can be used for at least the following two practical applications:

[0266] 1. Efficient grouping of formulations into predetermined sets of Cartridges for sale.

[0267] 2. Prioritization of the manufacture and distribution of specific cartridges.

[0268] Fig. 41 shows an efficient grouping method for a set of cartridges to be sold together based on game results when the objective is to group the most popular source ingredients.

[0269] In step 4101, data is collected on the first X most frequent ingredients in colors selected by a community or users, where X is an integer. In one example, X might be 3 since the dispensing device described above contains 3 cartridges. However, X could be any number from 3 or higher, depending on the preferred size of the grouping to be sold as a single unit. In step 4102, the first X ingredients are set for to be included in a single package sold. This setting can be made in a packaging and distribution facility.

[0270] Although [Fig. 41] relates to grouping the most frequently used ingredients in a single package, other ways of grouping ingredients in a single package may be preferable. For example, to allow users to create a highly popular color that emerges as a result of the games or challenges described above, grouping could consist of grouping the specific cartridges needed to make the popular color in a purchasable package. In [Fig. 42], at step 4202, data is collected on the X most popular mixed colors determined in the games or challenges. X can be an integer equal to or greater than 1. At step 4202, the ingredients needed to make the X most popular colors are defined to be included in a single package for sale.

[0271] Alternatively, a plurality of separate three-cartridge packs can be set for a plurality of distinct popular colors. As another alternative, one pack can be created based on the most popular primary colors among the colors selected in games or competitions, while a separate pack is created for the most popular auxiliary colors in the games or competitions.

[0272] As noted above, while the creation of ingredient combination packages is a practical application of the sets described above, another practical application is to adjust the actual manufacturing volumes to prioritize the manufacture of individual cartridges that correspond to the ingredients determined on either of Figures 41 and 42.

[0273] In addition, the flowcharts in Figures 41 and 42 can be configured to operate for specific regions of the world based on the isolation of data collected in those regions. Furthermore, the flowcharts in Figures 41 and 42 can set the determination steps 4101 and 4201 to be performed periodically or seasonally. For example, a particular challenge may be launched just before a certain season or event (such as a particular holiday), and the end date of the challenge may automatically trigger determination steps 4001 and 4101, where the determination is focused on the results of the challenge. In this way, the available supply of marketable packaging for the above distribution device will be available in a timely manner, coinciding with the end of the challenge or the beginning of a particular season or event. For example, as shown in [Fig.

[43] , when the challenge is over and a screen is displayed showing the winners and the most popular shades (see Figures 38 and 39), then a graph can be displayed allowing a user to purchase bundled packs of cartridges based on the challenge results. Furthermore, for the process... In order for the manufacturing process to begin manufacturing the packaging according to the processes described above, there may be a predetermined delay (preferably one day or more) between the actual end of the competition voting and the public display of the screen shown in [Fig.43].

[0274] The structural components enabling the implementation of the aforementioned game concept are similar to the architecture shown in one of Figures 14, 16, 17, 19, or 21. Thus, each user's smartphone is connected to a cloud platform (implemented by one or more servers), and the selections made by a user during a game or design challenge are transmitted to the cloud platform. The cloud platform processes the collected information with processing circuitry as defined above and generates calibration commands to update the application software for each user or generates the recommendation for an individual user for the process shown in [Fig. 40].Furthermore, the cloud platform can connect directly to multiple manufacturing, filling, and / or distribution facilities to send orders for cartridge distribution and packaging based on the process results shown in Figures 41 and 42. The manufacturing facility can receive direct updates to modify the ingredients dispensed on a filling line, similar to the process described in US Publication No. 2020 / 0277181. Thus, changes to cartridge production and packaging can be made fully automatically, without human intervention if necessary.

[0275] Obviously, many modifications and variations of this disclosure are possible in light of the above teachings. It is therefore understood that the invention may be implemented in a manner other than that specifically described herein.

Claims

1. Demands A system comprising processing circuitry configured to run a contest that includes: - the analysis of a user's skin to detect the user's particularities following the taking of a self-portrait photo, a 360° self-portrait photo, or a series of photos from different angles of the user; - determining an image of a model that corresponds to the user's specific characteristics, from among a plurality of models; - the display of said image of the model; - receiving user input to adjust the color of a mixed cosmetic to be applied to the model's face; - displaying the user's input to a plurality of users and providing the plurality of users with an option to submit a vote on the user's input and the inputs of other users; - determining the input(s) that were applied by users to the image of the model that received the most votes; and - the provision as output of a result of a competition based on one or more entries receiving a greater number of votes determined as a recommendation for the user; in which the processing circuitry is further configured to: - determine a plurality of color ingredients used for the adjusted colors in one or more entries receiving the most votes, in which the color ingredients correspond to cartridges used in a dispensing device to produce the blended cosmetic product; and - transmit an instruction to a cartridge manufacturing facility to create a group package of cartridges for the determined plurality of color ingredients.

2. System according to claim 1, wherein the competition further includes: - displaying the model with the adjusted color selected by the user; and - receiving the image of the model's face with the adjusted color as input from the user.

3. System according to claim 1, wherein a number of cartridges in the grouped cartridge package corresponds to a number of cartridges that are stored simultaneously in the dispensing device.

4. System according to claim 1, wherein the processing circuitry is further configured to: - determine a particular color from among the colors fitted in one or more inputs receiving the most votes; and - transmit an instruction to the cartridge manufacturing facility to create a group pack of cartridges to produce the particular color determined with the dispensing device.

5. System according to claim 1, wherein the processing circuitry is further configured to: - determine a plurality of the most frequent ingredients in the colors fitted in one or more inputs; and - transmit an instruction to the cartridge manufacturing facility to create a grouped pack of cartridges that includes the plurality of the most frequent ingredients.

6. System according to claim 1, wherein the processing circuitry is further configured to transmit an instruction to a cartridge manufacturing facility to adjust manufacturing volumes in order to prioritize the production of cartridges corresponding to the determined plurality of color ingredients.

7. A system according to claim 1, wherein the processing circuitry is further configured to transmit the instruction to a particular cartridge manufacturing facility in a region specific geographic area based on the collection of data on votes in the competition from the specific geographic area.

8. System according to claim 1, wherein the contest is configured to end before a season or event, and the end of the contest automatically triggers the processing circuitry to transmit the instruction to the manufacturing facility.

9. System according to claim 8, wherein the processing circuitry is further configured to display a link to purchase a blended cosmetic product corresponding to the entry receiving the most votes.

10. System according to claim 9, wherein the processing circuitry is configured to transmit the instruction to the manufacturing facility a predetermined time before displaying the link.

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