RECOGNITION OF NON-ELECTRONIC ACCESSORIES USING DIELECTRIC PROPERTIES
The system effectively identifies non-electronic accessories by detecting and comparing dielectric profiles, addressing the challenge of electronic-free identification and enabling formula detection within accessories.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- FR · FR
- Patent Type
- Utility models
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2024-02-12
- Publication Date
- 2026-03-13
AI Technical Summary
Existing systems struggle to identify non-electronic accessories accurately without using additional electronics, leading to inefficiencies in determining their identity.
A system utilizing a device with an electrode to detect dielectric profiles of accessories, comparing them to a profile database to determine identity, and storing new profiles when necessary, without requiring additional electronics.
Enables accurate identification of accessories based on their dielectric properties, allowing for efficient recognition and potential detection of formula quantities within capsules, enhancing usability and functionality.
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Abstract
Description
Title of the invention: Recognition of accessories without electronics using dielectric properties SUMMARY
[0001] According to one aspect, a system including a device is disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the device includes a processor and an electrode designed to detect a dielectric profile. In some embodiments, the system further includes at least one accessory having a dielectric profile, wherein the processor is configured to receive the detected dielectric profile from the electrode, compare the detected dielectric profile with a profile database, the profile database including a plurality of dielectric profiles, and determine an accessory identity based on the detected dielectric profile.
[0002] In some embodiments, at least one accessory includes a housing that determines the dielectric profile. In some embodiments, at least one accessory includes an electrical layer that determines the dielectric profile. In some embodiments, the electrical layer is a metallization layer. In some embodiments, at least one accessory includes a dielectric layer that determines the dielectric profile. In some embodiments, the dielectric layer is a plastic layer. In some embodiments, at least one accessory includes a metallic paint layer that determines the dielectric profile.
[0003] In certain embodiments, the processor is further configured to, when the dielectric profile does not match a dielectric profile from the plurality of dielectric profiles in the profile database, store the dielectric profile as a new dielectric profile.
[0004] In some embodiments, the electrode is designed to detect the dielectric profile when the accessory is in contact with the device. In some embodiments, the electrode is designed to detect the dielectric profile when the accessory is within a predefined radius of the electrode.
[0005] In some embodiments, the dielectric profile is further based on the size of the accessory, the shape of the accessory, the material of the accessory, the material of an electrical or dielectric layer, the thickness of an electrical or dielectric layer, or the thickness of a paint layer of the accessory. In some embodiments, the dielectric layer, the electrical layer, and / or the metallic paint layer is located on a part of the accessory. In some embodiments, the dielectric layer, the electrical layer and / or the metallic paint layer cover the entire accessory.
[0006] In some embodiments, the accessory further includes a capsule designed to contain a formula, in which the formula determines the dielectric profile. In some embodiments, a quantity of the formula determines the dielectric profile. In some embodiments, the absence of a formula determines the dielectric profile. In some embodiments, the type of formula determines the dielectric profile.
[0007] According to another aspect, a method for determining the identity of an accessory is disclosed here, including receiving a detected dielectric profile of the accessory with an electrode located on a device, comparing the detected dielectric profile with a database of profiles, the database of profiles including a plurality of dielectric profiles, and determining the identity of the accessory based on the detected dielectric profile.
[0008] In some embodiments, the method further includes, when the dielectric profile does not match a dielectric profile from the plurality of dielectric profiles in the profile database, storing the dielectric profile as a new dielectric profile.
[0009] In some embodiments, the dielectric profile is based on a formula contained in a capsule, and the method further includes coupling the capsule to the accessory before measuring the dielectric profile. In some embodiments, the profile database includes at least one formula dielectric profile of the accessory, the formula dielectric profile being when the capsule contains the formula, and an empty dielectric profile of the accessory, the empty dielectric profile being when the capsule is empty. In some embodiments, the method further includes, when the dielectric profile matches the full dielectric profile, identifying that the capsule contains the formula, and when the dielectric profile matches the empty dielectric profile, identifying that the capsule does not contain a formula.
[0010] In some embodiments, the method further includes placing the accessory within a predefined radius of the device before detecting the dielectric profile. In some embodiments, the method further includes bringing the accessory into contact with the device before detecting the dielectric profile.
[0011] This summary is provided to present a selection of concepts in a simplified form, which are described in greater detail below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify key features of the claimed subject matter, nor should it be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter. Description of the drawings
[0012] The foregoing aspects and many related advantages of the present invention will be more readily appreciated as they are better understood with reference to the following detailed description, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:
[0013] [Fig.1A] Fig.1A is an example of a system including a device and a plurality of accessories, in accordance with the present technology;
[0014] [Fig.1B] The [Fig.1B] is an internal view of the example device of the [Fig.1A], in accordance with the present technology;
[0015] [Fig.2A] The [Fig.2A] is an example of an accessory having a dielectric profile based on a layer, in accordance with the present technology;
[0016] [Fig.2B] The [Fig.2B] is an example of an accessory having a dielectric profile based on multiple layers, in accordance with the present technology;
[0017] [Fig.2C] The [Fig.2C] is an example of an accessory having a dielectric profile based on a layer, in accordance with the present technology;
[0018] [Fig.2D] The [Fig.2D] is an example of an accessory having a dielectric profile based on a part of the accessory, in accordance with the present technology;
[0019] [Fig.3A] Fig.3A shows a configuration of an example system to enable the detection of a dielectric profile of an accessory with a device, in accordance with the present technology;
[0020] [Fig.3B] Fig.3B shows another configuration of an example system to enable the detection of a dielectric profile of an accessory with a device, in accordance with the present technology;
[0021] [Fig 4A-4C] FIGURES 4A to 4C are examples of accessories having a formula capsule which determines a dielectric profile of each accessory, in accordance with the present technology;
[0022] [Fig.5] The [Fig.5] is a method for determining the identity of an accessory, in accordance with the present technology;
[0023] [Fig. 6] Fig. 6 is another method for determining the identity of an accessory, in accordance with the present technology; and
[0024] [Fig.7] The [Fig.7] is another method of determining the identity of an accessory, in accordance with the present technology. Detailed description
[0025] A system for determining the identity of an accessory by its dielectric profile is described herein. In some embodiments, the system includes a device that can measure, with an electrode, the dielectric profile of an accessory. Based on a profile database coupled in communication to a processor in the The device can compare the dielectric profile with a plurality of known dielectric profiles in the profile database to determine the accessory's identity. In some embodiments, this can be done by coupling or contacting the accessory with the device, or by placing the accessory at a specific distance from the device. In some embodiments, when the device does not recognize the accessory's dielectric profile, the device can store the dielectric profile as a new dielectric profile so that the device can recognize the accessory in the future. In some embodiments, such as when the accessory includes a formula capsule, the device can further be designed to determine the quantity or type of formula located in the formula capsule based on the device's dielectric profile.
[0026] Figure 1A is an example of a system 1000 comprising a device 105 and a plurality of accessories 110A, 110B, 110C, according to the present technology. In some embodiments, there may be three accessories in the plurality of accessories 110A, 110B, HOC, but those skilled in the art should recognize that there may be any number of accessories in the plurality of accessories 110A, 110B, HOC, including a single accessory 110A. In some embodiments, at least one accessory 110A from the plurality of accessories 110A, 110B, 110C is designed to be coupled or otherwise connected to the device 105. In some embodiments, the device 105 is designed to be coupled with any accessory 110A, 110B, HOC, from the plurality of accessories 110A, 110B, HOC.
[0027] In operation, when the device 105 is coupled to at least one accessory 110A, the device 105 is designed to determine the identity of the at least one accessory 110A based on a dielectric profile of the at least one accessory 110A. In some embodiments, each accessory 110A, 110B, HOC has a unique dielectric profile, allowing the device 105 to determine which accessory has been coupled to the device 105. In some embodiments, such as when the plurality of accessories 110A, 110B, HOC are the same accessory (such as in the case of replacement accessories), each accessory in the plurality of accessories 110A, 110B, 110C has the same dielectric profile. In some embodiments, because device 105 uses the dielectric profile of the accessory to determine the identity of at least one accessory 110A, the device does not include additional electronics.
[0028] [Fig. 1B] is an internal view of the example device 105 of [Fig. 1A], according to the present technology. In some embodiments, the device 105 includes a housing 115, an electrode 120, a processor (or computer) 125 and a profile database 130.
[0029] In some embodiments, the housing 115 of the device 105 is made of a material that does not interfere with the measurement of the electrode of a dielectric profile of an accessory (such as accessory 110A of [Fig. 1A]). In some embodiments, the housing 115 is made of plastic, metal, glass, ceramic, or similar materials. In some embodiments, the housing 115 covers and / or protects the electrode 120. In some embodiments, the electrode 120 may be located outside the housing 115.
[0030] In some embodiments, the electrode 120 is designed to detect a dielectric profile of at least one accessory. In some embodiments, the electrode 120 is designed to detect the dielectric profile by measuring an electrical capacitance of the accessory.
[0031] In some embodiments, the processor 125 is configured to receive the detected electrical capacitance measurement from the electrode 120. In some embodiments, the processor 125 communicates with the profile database 130 to determine the identity of the accessory.
[0032] The profile database 130 includes a plurality of dielectric profiles. In some embodiments, each dielectric profile in the plurality of dielectric profiles corresponds to an accessory (or type of accessory) that can be coupled to the device 105. In some embodiments, if a detected dielectric profile is not part of the plurality of dielectric profiles, the processor 125 can further be configured to create a new dielectric profile and store the new dielectric profile in the profile database 130. In some embodiments, the plurality of dielectric profiles may include dielectric profiles that correspond to a status of a specific accessory (such as at least one accessory 110A).For example, in some embodiments, the plurality of dielectric profiles includes dielectric profiles corresponding to a quantity of formula located in a capsule inside the accessory, as shown and described in [Fig.4A] to 4C.
[0033] Figure 2A is an example of an accessory 210 having a dielectric profile based on a layer 235, according to the present technology. In some embodiments, the accessory 210 may have any number of features that determine the dielectric profile of the accessory.
[0034] In some embodiments, the accessory 210 includes a layer 235. In some embodiments, the layer 235 determines the dielectric profile of the accessory. In some embodiments, the dielectric profile is further based on the size of the accessory, the shape of the accessory, the material of the accessory, the thickness of a paint layer of the accessory, or a related combination thereof. In some embodiments, the layer 235 is a dielectric layer. In In some embodiments, the dielectric layer is made of plastic, such as polypropylene, polyethylene, acrylic, polyethylene terephthalate, polystyrene, polycarbonate, polyvinyl chloride, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, HDPE (high-density polyethylene), a related combination, or similar materials. In some embodiments, layer 235 is an electrical layer. In some embodiments, the electrical layer is a metallization layer. In some embodiments, the metallization layer is made of metal, such as tin, copper, aluminum, gold, silver, titanium, or similar materials.
[0035] As described herein, in certain embodiments, layer 235 is a dielectric layer. In such embodiments, the dielectric profile of accessory 210 can be mathematically represented by Equation 1. 100361 ASeaiZ^101'1'
[0037] in which dielectricx is layer 235, and ASeuil is a change in the error threshold of an electrical capacitance measurement of an electrode (such as electrode 120 from [Fig.1B]).
[0038] In some embodiments, layer 235 is positioned on accessory 210 on a plane of accessory 210 designed to interact (or couple) with a device (such as device 105 in [Fig. 1A]). In some embodiments, layer 235 may cover the entire device, as shown in [Fig. 2C].
[0039] Figure 2B is an example of an accessory 210 having a dielectric profile based on multiple layers 235A, 235B, according to the present technology. In some embodiments, the accessory 210 may have more than one layer 235A, 235B. Although two layers 235A and 235B are illustrated in Figure 2B, those skilled in the art should understand that any number of layers 235A and 235B may be included on the accessory 210.
[0040] In some embodiments, the multiple layers 235A, 235B determine the dielectric profile of the accessory 210. In some embodiments, the multiple layers 235A, 235B include a first layer 235A and a second layer 235B. In some embodiments, the first layer 235A, the second layer 235B, or both the first layer 235A and the second layer 235B are dielectric layers, electrical layers, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the first layer 235A is a dielectric layer, and the second layer 235B is an electrical layer. In such embodiments, the dielectric profile of the accessory 210 can be mathematically represented in Equation 2.
[0041] f^x^pielectricx + ^^Electric^ + A Threshold ^quati°n 2)
[0042] in which Dielectric is layer 235A, Electric is layer 235B, and A Threshold is an error threshold of a measurement of the electrical capacitance of an electrode (such as electrode 120 of [Fig.1B]).
[0043] In some embodiments, multiple layers 235A, 235B are positioned on the accessory 210 on a plane of the accessory 210 designed to interact (or couple) with a device (such as the device 105 in [Fig. 1A]). In some embodiments, multiple layers 235A, 235B may cover the entire device. In some embodiments, the multiple layers 235A, 235B may be located on only a portion of the accessory 210.
[0044] Figure 2C is an example of an accessory 210 having a dielectric profile based on a layer 235, according to the present technology. In some embodiments, the layer 235 covers the entire accessory 210 as a coating. In some embodiments, the layer 235 may be a paint layer. In some embodiments, the layer 235 determines the dielectric profile of the accessory 210.
[0045] In some embodiments, layer 235 may be a metallic paint layer. In some embodiments, the metallic paint layer may include pieces of metal, or metal granules, suspended in the paint. In some embodiments, the metallic paint includes a plurality of metallic flakes. In some embodiments, the metallic paint includes a base coat and a lacquer. In some embodiments, the lacquer may be an acrylic polyurethane topcoat.
[0046] Figure 2D is an example of an accessory 210 having a dielectric profile based on a portion 235 of the accessory, according to the present technology. In some embodiments, the dielectric profile may be based on a portion 235 of the accessory 210. In some embodiments, the portion 235 is a layer, as described in Figures 2A to 2C. In some embodiments, the portion 235 may be a dielectric layer, an electrical layer, and / or a metallization layer. In some embodiments, the portion 235 may be a paint layer. In some embodiments, the portion 235 may be a paint, such as a metallic paint. During operation, the device electrode (such as electrode 120) is designed to detect a dielectric profile only of the portion of the accessory 210 to determine the identity of the accessory 210.
[0047] Figure 3A shows a configuration of an example system 3000 for enabling the detection of a dielectric profile of an accessory 305 with a device 310, in accordance with the present technology. In some embodiments, the System 3000 is an example of System 1000 as described herein. In some embodiments, Device 305 detects the dielectric profile of Accessory 310 when Device 305 and Accessory 310 come into contact with each other or couple.
[0048] In some embodiments, the device 305 includes a housing 315, an electrode 320, a processor 325, and a profile database 330. In some embodiments, the electrode 320 is designed to detect a capacitance indicative of a dielectric profile and transmit the detected capacitance to the processor 325. In some embodiments, the processor 325 communicates with a profile database including a plurality of dielectric profiles. In some embodiments, the processor 325 compares the detected capacitance with the plurality of dielectric profiles to determine the identity of the accessory with the detected capacitance.
[0049] In some embodiments, the accessory 310 includes a layer 335. In some embodiments, the layer 335 is a dielectric layer, an electrical layer, or a paint layer. In some embodiments, the layer 335 determines the dielectric profile of the accessory 310.
[0050] During operation, when the accessory 310 and the device 305 touch or couple, attach, or otherwise connect to each other, the electrode 120 detects a dielectric profile of the accessory 310 in the form of a measured capacitance. The electrode transmits this detected capacitance (also referred to here as the detected dielectric profile) to the processor 325. In some embodiments, the processor compares the detected dielectric profile with the plurality of dielectric profiles in the profile database. If the detected dielectric profile matches one of the dielectric profiles, the device 305 identifies the accessory 310 based on the matching dielectric profile.
[0051] In some embodiments, if the detected dielectric profile does not match any of the available dielectric profiles, the processor 325 can store the detected dielectric profile as a new dielectric profile. In some embodiments, the processor 325 stores the new dielectric profile in the profile database 320.
[0052] Figure 3B shows another configuration of an example system for enabling the detection of a dielectric profile of an accessory 310 with a device 305, according to the present technology. In some embodiments, the system 3000 is an example of the system 1000 described herein. In some embodiments, the device 305 detects the dielectric profile of the accessory 310 when the device 305 and the accessory 310 are in close proximity to each other. In some embodiments, the device 305 and the accessory 310 may be at a distance D from each other.
[0053] In some embodiments, the device 305 includes a housing 315, an electrode 320, a processor 325, and a profile database 330. In some embodiments, the electrode 320 is designed to detect a capacitance indicative of a dielectric profile and transmit the detected capacitance to the processor 325. In some embodiments, the processor 325 communicates with a profile database including a plurality of dielectric profiles. In some embodiments, the processor 325 compares the detected capacitance with the plurality of dielectric profiles to determine the identity of the accessory with the detected capacitance.
[0054] In some embodiments, the accessory 310 includes a layer 335. In some embodiments, the layer 335 is a dielectric layer, an electrical layer, or a paint layer. In some embodiments, the layer 335 determines the dielectric profile of the accessory 310. In some embodiments, the layer 335 is a first layer, and the accessory 310 includes multiple layers.
[0055] During operation, when the accessory 310 and the device 305 are located at a distance D from each other, the electrode 320 detects a dielectric profile of the accessory 310 in the form of a measured capacitance. The electrode transmits this detected capacitance (also referred to here as the detected dielectric profile) to the processor 325. In some embodiments, the processor compares the detected dielectric profile with the plurality of dielectric profiles in the profile database. If the detected dielectric profile matches a dielectric profile from the plurality of dielectric profiles, the device 305 identifies the accessory 310 based on the dielectric profile.
[0056] In some embodiments, if the detected dielectric profile does not match any of the available dielectric profiles, the processor 325 can store the detected dielectric profile as a new dielectric profile. In some embodiments, the processor 325 stores the new dielectric profile in the profile database.
[0057] In certain embodiments, depending on the sensitivity of the electrode 320, the device 305 and the accessory 310 can be placed at a distance D from each other, and the electrode 320 is still able to detect the dielectric profile of the accessory. In some embodiments, the distance D between the device 305 and the accessory 310 is between approximately 0.1 cm and 1 meter. In some embodiments, the distance D is between approximately 0.1 cm and 31 cm. In some embodiments, the distance D is between approximately 0.1 cm and 10 cm.
[0058] Figures [4A] to [4C] are examples of accessories 410 having a formula capsule (or capsule) 440 which determines a dielectric profile of each accessory, in accordance with this technology. In some embodiments, accessory 410 (which may be any accessory described herein, including accessory 110, 210, 310) includes a formula capsule 440, designed to contain a formula F.
[0059] In some embodiments, the capsule 440 is designed to be inserted into the accessory 410, but in other embodiments, the capsule 440 can be attached to, coupled to, placed next to, or slid into the accessory 410. The capsule 440 can be recyclable or a single-use capsule. In some embodiments, the capsule 440 can be refilled.
[0060] In some embodiments, the amount of formula F contained in the formula 440 capsule determines the dielectric profile of the accessory (also referred to herein as the "formula dielectric profile"). For example, [Fig. 4A] shows a formula 440 capsule filled with formula F. In some embodiments, the accessory 410 of [Fig. 4A] has a full dielectric profile, indicating that the capsule 440 has been filled with formula F. In some embodiments, the full dielectric profile may indicate that the formula 440 capsule is completely filled with formula F, as shown in [Fig. 4A], but in other embodiments, the full dielectric profile occurs when any amount of formula F is contained in the capsule 440. In such embodiments, the accessory 410 of [Fig. 4B] would also have a full dielectric profile.In some embodiments, the full dielectric profile is when the formula 440 capsule is substantially filled with formula F, for example when the formula 440 capsule is filled to about 80%, 90%, 95% or similar, of formula F.
[0061] In some embodiments, an electrode (such as electrode 120, 320) of a device (such as device 105, 305) has sufficiently high sensitivity to distinguish between a completely full formula 440 capsule ([Fig. 4A]) and a partially full formula 440 capsule ([Fig. 4B]). In such embodiments, the accessory 410 of [Fig. 4B] would have a partial dielectric profile. In some embodiments, a profile database (such as profile database 320) includes one or more partial dielectric profiles, each associated with a filling level of the formula 440 capsule. For example, the profile database might include a 25% full dielectric profile, a 50% full dielectric profile, and a 75% full dielectric profile.In some embodiments, the device (such as device 105, 305) is further designed to display or otherwise alert a user to the fill level of the formula 440 capsule.
[0062] Figure 4C shows an accessory 410 with an empty formula capsule 440 (i.e., not containing formula F). In some embodiments, the accessory 410 of Figure 4C has an empty dielectric profile. In some embodiments, The empty dielectric profile may include when the formula 440 capsule contains only a small amount of formula F, such as when the formula capsule is filled to about 1%, 2% or 5% of formula F.
[0063] In some embodiments, the device (such as device 105, 305) can detect the dielectric profile of the accessory 410 and determine whether the formula 440 capsule is full, partially full, or empty. In some embodiments, a profile database (such as profile database 130, 330) includes the full dielectric profile, the partial dielectric profile, and / or the empty dielectric profile. During operation, when the electrode detects the dielectric profile of the accessory 410, the device can recognize the quantity or approximately the quantity of formula F that is located in the formula 440 capsule. In some embodiments, the device can further alert a system user to replace an empty formula 440 capsule or to refill an empty formula 440 capsule.
[0064] In some embodiments, the type of formula further determines the dielectric profile of the accessory 410. For example, a conditioner formula may modify the dielectric profile differently from an eye makeup formula or a moisturizing skincare formula. In this way, the device can identify the type of formula located inside the formula capsule 440 based on the formula type F.
[0065] Figure 5 is a method 500 for determining the identity of an accessory, according to the present technology. In some embodiments, the method 500 is carried out with the systems described herein, such as system 1000 and / or 3000. In some embodiments, the method is carried out by a device (such as device 105, 305) and at least one accessory (such as accessory 110A, 210, 310, 410).
[0066] In block 505, a detected dielectric profile is received from an electrode (such as electrode 120, 320) of an accessory. In some embodiments, the electrode is incorporated into a device. In some embodiments, the electrode is designed to detect the electrical capacitance of the accessory as a dielectric profile.
[0067] In block 510, the detected dielectric profile is compared with a profile database (such as profile database 135, 335). In some embodiments, the profile database includes a plurality of dielectric profiles. In some embodiments, each dielectric profile in the plurality of dielectric profiles corresponds to a unique accessory. In some embodiments, the detected dielectric profile is compared with the plurality of dielectric profiles in the profile database.
[0068] At block 515, the detected dielectric profile is matched with a dielectric profile from the plurality of dielectric profiles in the profile database.
[0069] In block 520, the accessory's identity is determined based on the detected dielectric profile. In some embodiments, each dielectric profile from the plurality of dielectric profiles is associated with a unique accessory identity. By matching the detected dielectric profile, the device can determine the accessory's identity.
[0070] Figure 6 is another method for determining the identity of an accessory. in accordance with the present technology. In some embodiments, the process 500 is carried out with the systems described herein, such as systems 100 and 300. In some embodiments, the process is carried out by a device (such as device 105, 305) and at least one accessory (such as accessory 110A, 210, 310).
[0071] In block 605, a detected dielectric profile is received from an electrode (such as electrode 120, 320) of an accessory. In some embodiments, the electrode is incorporated into a device. In some embodiments, the electrode is designed to detect the electrical capacitance of the accessory as a dielectric profile.
[0072] In block 610, the detected dielectric profile is compared with a profile database (such as profile database 135, 335). In some embodiments, the profile database includes a plurality of dielectric profiles. In some embodiments, each dielectric profile in the plurality of dielectric profiles corresponds to a unique accessory. In some embodiments, the detected dielectric profile is compared with the plurality of dielectric profiles in the profile database.
[0073] In decision block 615, it is determined whether the detected dielectric profile matches one of the dielectric profiles in the profile database. If the detected dielectric profile matches one of the dielectric profiles in the profile database, the process proceeds to block 620A.
[0074] In block 620A, the accessory identity is determined based on the detected dielectric profile. In some embodiments, each dielectric profile from the plurality of dielectric profiles is associated with a unique accessory identity. By matching the detected dielectric profile, the device can determine the accessory identity.
[0075] Back at decision block 615, if the detected dielectric profile does not match a dielectric profile from the plurality of dielectric profiles in the profile database, the process proceeds to block 620B.
[0076] In block 620B, the detected dielectric profile is stored as a new dielectric profile in the profile database. In this way, the profile database can be expanded based on accessories coupled to or in contact with the device. In some embodiments, the profile database stores this detected dielectric profile in such a way that the device can recognize and identify the accessory at a later time.
[0077] Figure 7 is another method 700 for determining the identity of an accessory, according to the present technology. In some embodiments, the method 500 is carried out with the systems described herein, such as systems 100, 400 and / or 400. In some embodiments, the method is carried out by a device (such as device 105, 305) and at least one accessory (such as accessory 110A, 210, 310, 410).
[0078] In block 705, a capsule (such as the formula 440 capsule) is coupled to the accessory. In some embodiments, the capsule may be inserted into the accessory, attached to the accessory, coupled to the accessory, or otherwise physically connected to the accessory.
[0079] At block 710, the device receives a detected dielectric profile from the accessory with an electrode (such as electrode 110, 310). In some embodiments, the dielectric profile is provided by a type or quantity of formula (such as formula F) located inside the capsule.
[0080] In block 715, the detected dielectric profile is compared with a profile database (such as profile database 330). In some embodiments, the profile database includes an empty dielectric profile associated with an accessory having an empty formula capsule. In some embodiments, the profile database includes at least one dielectric profile associated with a capsule full of formula (full dielectric profile) and one dielectric profile associated with an empty capsule (empty dielectric profile). In some embodiments, the dielectric profile is full when any amount of formula is contained in the capsule. In other embodiments, the dielectric profile is full when the capsule is substantially full, for example, when the capsule is 90%, 95%, or 100% full of formula.In some embodiments, the electrode is sensitive enough to detect when the capsule is partially filled. In such embodiments, the profile database may include one or more partial dielectric profiles, each corresponding to a filling level of the formula capsule. For example, there may be a dielectric profile for 25% full, a dielectric profile for 50% full, and so on.
[0081] In decision block 720, it is determined whether the dielectric profile matches the empty dielectric profile. If the dielectric profile matches the empty dielectric profile, process 700 proceeds to block 725A.
[0082] At block 725A, the device identifies that the capsule is empty,
[0083] Optionally, at block 730, the device issues a recharge alert. In some embodiments, the recharge alert may consist of replacing the entire capsule. In some embodiments, the recharge alert consists of refilling the capsule with a formula.
[0084] Returning to decision block 720, if it is determined that the dielectric profile does not match the empty dielectric profile, process 700 proceeds to block 725B.
[0085] In block 725B, the device recognizes that the capsule contains a formula. In some embodiments, the capsule displays or otherwise alerts a system user that the capsule contains a formula, for example, by displaying an indicator, making a sound, or flashing a light. In some embodiments, such as when the profile database includes one or more partial dielectric profiles, the device can alert or display a fill quantity (such as 25%).
[0086] It should be understood that all processes 500, 600, 700 should be interpreted as merely representative. In certain embodiments, the process blocks of all processes 500, 600, 700 may be carried out simultaneously, successively, in a different order, or even omitted, without departing from the scope of this disclosure.
[0087] This application may refer to quantities and numbers. Unless otherwise specified, these quantities and numbers are not to be considered restrictive, but rather representative of the possible quantities or numbers associated with this application. In this regard, this application may also use the term "plurality" to refer to a quantity or number. In this regard, the term "plurality" is understood to mean any number greater than one, for example, two, three, four, five, etc. The terms "about," "approximately," "close to," etc., mean plus or minus 5% of the stated value. For the purposes of this disclosure, the expression "at least one of A, B, and C," for example, means (A), (B), (C), (A and B), (A and C), (B and C), or (A, B, and C), including all other possible permutations when more than three items are listed.
[0088] The embodiments disclosed herein may employ circuitry to implement the technologies and methodologies described herein, functionally connect two or more components, generate information, determine operating conditions, control an apparatus, device, or process, and / or the like. Any type of circuitry may be used. In a In this embodiment, the circuitry includes, among other things, one or more computing devices such as a processor (e.g., a microprocessor), 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 associated combination, and may include separate digital or analog circuit elements or electronics, or associated combinations.
[0089] An embodiment includes one or more data stores that, for example, store instructions or data. Non-limiting examples of one or more data stores 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 read-only memory (EEPROM), compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), or the like), persistent memory, or the like. Other non-limiting examples of one or more data stores include erasable and programmable read-only memory (EPROM), flash memory, or the like. One or more data stores may be connected, for example, to one or more computing devices by one or more instructions, data, or power buses.
[0090] In one embodiment, the circuitry includes a computer-readable media player or a memory slot configured to accept a signal-carrying medium (for example, computer-readable memory storage, computer-readable recording storage, or the like). In one embodiment, a program for causing a system to perform any of the disclosed processes may be stored, for example, on computer-readable recording storage (CRMM), a signal-carrying medium, or the like.Non-limiting examples of signal-carrying media include recordable media such as any form of flash memory, magnetic tape, floppy disk, hard drive, compact disc (CD), digital video disc (DVD), Blu-ray disc, digital tape, computer memory, or the like, as well as transmission media such as digital and / or analog communication media (e.g., fiber optic cable, waveguide, wired communication link, wireless communication link) (e.g., transmitter, receiver, transceiver, transmission logic, receiving 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-Digital memory card. volatile, EEPROM, optical disk, optical storage, RAM, ROM, system memory, web server, or similar.
[0091] The detailed description presented above in relation to the accompanying drawings, in which similar numbers refer to similar elements, is intended as a description of various embodiments of this disclosure and is not intended to represent the only embodiments. Each embodiment described in this disclosure is offered solely by way of example or illustration and should not be construed as being preferred or advantageous over other embodiments. The illustrative examples provided herein are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure to the specific forms disclosed. Similarly, all the steps described herein may be interchangeable with other steps, or combinations of steps, to achieve the same or substantially similar result.In general, the embodiments disclosed here are not limiting, and the inventors contemplate that other embodiments within the scope of this disclosure may include structures and functionalities from more than one specific embodiment illustrated in the figures and described in the memorandum.
[0092] In the preceding description, specific details are presented to provide a thorough understanding of the example embodiments of this disclosure. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented without incorporating all the specific details. In some cases, well-known process steps have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure various aspects of this disclosure. Furthermore, it should be noted that the embodiments of this disclosure may employ any combination of features described herein.
[0093] This application may include references to directions, such as "vertical", "horizontal", "front", "back", "left", "right", "above" and "below", etc. These references, and other similar references in this application, are intended to help describe and understand the particular embodiment (such as when the embodiment is positioned for use) and are not intended to limit this disclosure to those directions or locations.
[0094] This application may also refer to quantities and numbers. Unless specifically stated, these quantities and numbers are not to be considered restrictive, but rather as examples of the possible quantities or numbers associated with this application. In this respect also, this application may use the term "plurality" to refer to a quantity or number. In this respect, the term "plurality" is understood to mean any number greater than one, for example, two, three, four, five, etc. The terms "about," "approximately," etc., mean to within plus or minus 5% of the stated value. The term "based on" means "based at least partially on".
[0095] The principles, representative embodiments, and modes of operation of this disclosure have been described in the preceding description. However, aspects of this disclosure that are intended to be protected should not be construed as being limited to the particular embodiments disclosed. Furthermore, the embodiments described herein should be considered illustrative rather than restrictive. It should be understood that variations and changes may be made by other means, and equivalents may be employed, without departing from the spirit of this disclosure. Accordingly, it is expressly intended that all such variations, changes, and equivalents fall within the spirit and scope of this disclosure as claimed.
[0096] Although illustrative embodiments have been shown and described, it will be appreciated that various changes can be made to them without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
Claims
Demands
1. System (1000) comprising: a device (105) including a processor (125, 135) and an electrode (120, 320) designed to detect a dielectric profile; and at least one accessory (110A, 110B, HOC, 210, 310, 410) having a dielectric profile, wherein the processor (125) is configured to: receive the detected dielectric profile from the electrode (120); compare the detected dielectric profile with a database (130) of profiles, wherein the profile database (130) includes a plurality of dielectric profiles; and determine an identity of the accessory based on the detected dielectric profile.
2. System (1000) according to claim 1, wherein at least one accessory (110A, 110B, HOC, 210, 310, 410) includes a housing (115, 315) which determines the dielectric profile.
3. System (1000) according to claim 1, wherein at least one accessory (110A, 110B, HOC, 210, 310, 410) includes an electrical layer (235) which determines the dielectric profile; and wherein the electrical layer (235) is a metallization layer.
4. System (1000) according to claim 1, wherein at least one accessory (110A, 110B, HOC, 210, 310, 410) includes a dielectric layer (235) which determines the dielectric profile.
5. System (1000) according to claim 1, wherein at least one accessory (110A, 110B, HOC, 210, 310, 410) includes a metallic paint layer (235) which determines the dielectric profile.
6. System (1000) according to claim 1, wherein the processor (125, 325) is further configured to: - when the dielectric profile does not match a dielectric profile from the plurality of dielectric profiles in the profile database (130), - store the dielectric profile as a new dielectric profile.
7. System (1000) according to claim 1, wherein the electrode (320) is designed to detect the dielectric profile when the accessory (310) is in contact with the device (305).
8. System (1000) according to claim 1, wherein the electrode (120, 320) is designed to detect the dielectric profile when the accessory 110A, 110B, HOC, 210, 310, 410) is within a predefined radius of the electrode (120, 320).
9. System (1000) according to claim 1, wherein the dielectric profile is further based on an accessory size, an accessory shape, an accessory material, an electrical or dielectric layer material, an electrical or dielectric layer thickness, an accessory paint layer thickness, or an associated combination.
10. System (1000) according to claim 1, wherein the accessory (410) further includes a capsule (440) containing a formula, the formula determining the dielectric profile.