Devices for applying compositions to eyelashes

Abstract

Devices for applying compositions to eyelashes The invention relates to devices for applying compositions, such as curable cosmetic eyelash extension compositions, to eyelashes. A device includes elements for mixing, heating and extruding the composition from the device, as well as elements for sensing the position of the device and coordinating the application of the composition to the eyelashes, during a gesture, based on the sensed positions and the desired lengths of filaments to be added to the eyelashes. The device includes means for priming eyelashes for receipt of the compositions thereon as well as wireless communication features for interaction with computing devices, such as smartphones. Figure for abstract: none

Description

Title of the invention: devices for applying compositions to eyelashes SUMMARY

[0001] In one aspect, the disclosure provides a device for applying a composition to a set of eyelashes, the device comprising: a dispensing system, comprising: a motor operatively connected to a power source, a mixer operatively connected to the motor and configured to mix a plurality of formulas to produce the composition, and a pump operatively connected to the motor and configured to pump the composition through an interior volume of the device; and an application system, comprising: a heating element operatively connected to the power source and configured to heat the composition within the interior volume, and an extruded outlet fluidly connected to the interior volume for extrusion of the composition therefrom.

[0002] In embodiments, the device further comprises: a formula pack comprising the plurality of formulas, wherein the formula pack is reversibly attachable to a body of the device for delivery of the plurality of formulas to the mixer of the device to produce the composition.

[0003] In embodiments, the plurality of formulas comprises: a resin formula and a curing formula.

[0004] In embodiments, the plurality of formulas comprises: a customizable formula.

[0005] In embodiments, the device further comprises: a thermal sensor configured to measure a temperature of the composition within the interior volume of the device for a measured temperature, and circuitry operatively connected to the thermal sensor and configured to control a function of the heating element to adjust the temperature of the composition based on the measured temperature and a temperature threshold.

[0006] In embodiments, the temperature threshold is particular to the composition based on the plurality of formulas.

[0007] In embodiments, the device further comprises: an accelerometer, a gyroscope, or both, operatively connected to the circuitry of the device for detecting movement of the device, orientation of the device, or both; wherein the movement, orientation, or both are used to determine of a status of a gesture to apply the composition on the set of eyelashes by the circuitry.

[0008] In embodiments, the gesture status is selected from a set of motion values, a set of orientation values, or both, positioned between a gesture start point and a gesture end point, which define a workspace within which extrusion of the composition from the device applies the composition to the set of eyelashes.

[0009] In embodiments, the device further comprises: a contact sensor, a conductance sensor, or both, operatively connected to the circuitry of the device for detecting a position of the device relative to a facial feature; wherein the position is used for determining, by the circuitry, whether the device is positioned at a starting point of a gesture to apply the composition to the set of eyelashes.

[0010] In embodiments, a set of position values, positioned between the start point of the gesture and an end point of the gesture, defines a workspace within which extrusion of the composition from the device applies the composition to the set of eyelashes.

[0011] In embodiments, the device further comprises: an optical system operatively connected to the circuitry of the device for detecting a position of the device relative to a facial feature; wherein the position is used for determining, by the circuitry, whether the device is positioned at a starting point of a gesture for applying the composition to the set of eyelashes.

[0012] In embodiments, the optical system comprises: a light element configured to irradiate the facial feature and an infrared (IR) camera configured to capture an IR image of the facial feature and transmit data from the IR image to circuitry of the device for determination by the circuitry of whether the device is positioned at the starting point of the gesture to apply the composition to the set of eyelashes.

[0013] In embodiments, the device further comprises: a wireless transceiver, operatively connected to circuitry of the device, configured for wireless communication with a computing device comprising circuitry for user interaction with the device.

[0014] In embodiments, the device further comprises: a plurality of bristles, arranged in a brush configuration or a tweezer configuration, configured to contact the set of eyelashes for application of the composition thereto.

[0015] In embodiments, the device further comprises: a plurality of conductive bristles operatively connected to the power source and configured to contain an electrical charge from the power source and contact the eyelash assembly to transfer at least a portion of the electrical charge to the eyelash assembly, such that the eyelash assembly is prepared to facilitate adhesion of the composition thereto.

[0016] This summary is provided to present a selection of concepts in simplified form which are described more fully below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify key features of the claimed subject matter or to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter. Description of the drawings

[0017] [Fig-1] [Fig.l] shows a diagram of an example device for the application of a composition on a set of eyelashes, according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0018] [Fig.2] [Fig.2] shows a diagram of an exemplary device for applying a composition to a set of eyelashes with an optical system, according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0019] [Fig.3] [Fig.3] shows a diagram of an exemplary device for applying a composition to a set of eyelashes with a wireless transceiver, according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0020] [Fig.4] [Fig.4] shows a diagram of an exemplary device for applying a composition to a set of eyelashes with a contact sensor and an on / off control, according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0021] [Fig.5] [Fig.5] shows a schematic of an exemplary device for applying a composition to a set of eyelashes in an eyelash curler form factor with an optical system, according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0022] [Fig.6] [Fig.6] shows a flowchart of an exemplary method of using an eyelash priming device, according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0023] [Fig.7] [Fig.7] shows a flowchart of an example of a method of operation of an eyelash priming device, according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0024] [Fig.8] [Fig.8] shows a flowchart of an exemplary method of using a device for applying a moldable filament to eyelashes, according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0025] [Fig.9] [Fig.9] shows a flowchart of an exemplary method of operating a device for mixing, heating, and extruding a moldable filament onto eyelashes, according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0026] [Fig. 10] [Fig. 10] shows a flowchart of an exemplary method of operating a device for applying moldable filament to eyelashes within a workspace, according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0027] The foregoing aspects and numerous associated 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. Detailed description

[0028] Eyelash modifications for changing eyelashes include: false eyelashes, in which a fiber is attached to a subject's natural eyelashes; mascara for darkening, thickening, lengthening, and defining eyelashes; and eyelash extension compositions that can be applied to eyelashes with brush and wand applicators to extend the eyelash structure beyond their natural ends. Existing approaches for applying compositions to eyelashes are unsatisfactory for various reasons, such as non-targeted application to the skin or other surface, detachment of the composition from the eyelashes, and uneven distribution of the composition along the eyelashes. Accordingly, there is a need for overall improved approaches for applying compositions to eyelashes, including approaches that ensure accurate and precise application, and that configure the eyelashes for superior adhesion with the composition once applied.The present disclosure addresses these and other long unmet needs in the art.

[0029] Accordingly, in one aspect, the disclosure provides a device for applying a composition to a set of eyelashes that includes a dispensing system comprising elements for mixing and pumping the composition within the device during use, and an application system comprising elements for heating and extruding the composition from the device, at the time of application, during use. The device may include intelligent control elements, such as monitoring and control circuitry, for monitoring the application process and controlling the dispensing system, the application system and other elements, to ensure that the composition is applied within a working space that includes a length of an eyelash and, optionally, an extension length that extends beyond the natural end of the eyelash.The working space defines a distance, space or volume within which the composition must be applied to the eyelashes during use of the device.

[0030] Exemplary devices of the disclosure, and exemplary elements thereof, are shown in Figures 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5. A device may be configured to include a handle attached to a head, according to at least certain form factors. Although certain elements are schematically shown as being within the handle or the head, it should be understood that these elements and any other elements included in an implementation of a device may be moved or rearranged within the device, or within one or more additional spaces or structures that are usable with or otherwise constitute the device, without departing from the scope and spirit of the disclosure. It is important to note that the placement of schematic elements at positions within the handle or head as shown, as the case may be, is for illustrative purposes only, and does not preclude alternative configurations according to embodiments that are expressly contemplated and included within the overall scope of the disclosure. Furthermore, although explicit structures for certain device elements may not be expressly shown or described herein, it is to be understood that these or equivalent structures are obtainable in the art and are available to those skilled in the art seeking to practice aspects of the disclosure.

[0031] Additionally, although the connections between elements of a device may not be explicitly shown in the figures, it should be understood that the elements shown, and any other elements of a device implementation, may be interconnected in any number, order, or combination for their function or the function of the device as a whole. Connections may include, but are not limited to, one or more fluid or fluidic connections, one or more functional connections, one or more electrical connections, one or more mechanical or physical connections, one or more communication connections, one or more wired connections, one or more wireless connections, one or more logic connections, one or more wireless electromagnetic connections for wireless charging of a power source, one or more circuitry connections, and the like.For example, one or more connections may be implemented between any two or more elements as listed in Table 1 and as shown in the corresponding figures, for the operation of a device (or for the operation of elements or systems of the device). These connections and any other connections implemented in an embodiment may be used to coordinate the operation of the elements of the device and facilitate the overall operation of the device during use. This coordination may occur with the use of one or more sensors, computing devices, software applications, control circuitry, and the like, as further described herein and as encompassed by their equivalents.

[0032] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, a device (1, 3) includes a handle (1a, 3a) and a head (1b, 3b). The device (1, 3) includes a dispensing system, comprising: a motor (10, 3o) operatively connected to a power source (Ir, 3r), a mixer (In, 3n) operatively connected to the motor (10, 3o) and configured to mix a plurality of formulas (2a, 2b, 2c) to produce the composition, and a pump (1p, 3p) operatively connected to the motor (10, 3o) and configured to pumping the composition through an interior volume of the device (1, 3). The device (1, 3) also includes an application system, comprising: a heating element (If, 3f) operatively connected to the power source (Ir, 3r) and configured to heat the composition within the interior volume, and an extruded outlet (If, 3f) fluidly connected to the interior volume for extruding the composition therefrom.

[0033] Formulas (2a, 2b, 2c) may be mixed prior to use, during use, or after use (e.g., for future use), in embodiments. In particular embodiments, formulas (2a, 2b, 2c) may be combined to form a curable composition, and mixed shortly before use, such that the composition does not cure within the device. In embodiments, a portion of the interior volume serves to contain a curable composition after it has been mixed but before it has been extruded, and may be limited in size such that excess or unused curable composition does not cure within the device.In various embodiments, a composition formed from the mixture of formulas (2a, 2b, 2c) may be heated shortly before being extruded from the device, such that the extruded composition is warm or somewhat warm and is fluid and capable of being extruded and applied to eyelashes. In embodiments, the application of heat to a composition may prevent or delay curing of the composition, such that the composition does not harden within the device. In at least some embodiments, the device may be cleaned with water or another solvent to clean unused formula or composition or other debris from the device after use.

[0034] The composition may be produced by mixing a plurality of formulas (2a, 2b, 2c). Although any suitable composition may be applied to the eyelashes with a device, in at least some embodiments, a curable composition may be applied. A curable composition may be produced by mixing a cosmetic resin formula and a curing agent formula, for example, which may optionally be further mixed with a customizable formula.The cosmetic resin formula may create a structure for the filament produced by the composition when applied to the eyelashes; the curing agent formula may include a catalyst that activates a crosslinking or other reaction for curing of the cosmetic resin formula, and the customizable formula may include a blend of cosmetic polymers, film formers, and the like, which are capable of imparting any of a variety of cosmetic benefits to the eyelashes with the composition, such as moisturizing, curling, lengthening, and the like.

[0035] The formulas (2a, 2b, 2c) may be included within a formula pack 2, as exemplified in Figures 1 and 2, as a consumable product for use with the device (1, 3). The formula pack 2 may be reversibly attached to the device (1, 3) and may form connections between the formula adapters (1s, It, lu) of the device (1, 3) and the formula pack adapters (2d, 2e, 2f) of the formula pack 2. These connections may include fluid or fluidic connections that fluidly connect the (separated) formulas (2a, 2b, 2c) with corresponding formula adapters of the device to be combined and mixed within the device (1, 3). When one or more formulas from formula pack 2 are consumed, a new or refilled formula pack 2 may be connected to the device (1,3) for further use of the device (1,3).

[0036] In various embodiments, the formula package 2 may be configured for a particular cosmetic benefit or application. For example, a customizable formula (e.g., 2a, 2b, or 2c) of the formula package 2 may be formulated for a particular texture, volume, stiffness, density, color, or other property of the eyelash filament after being formed by applying the composition to the eyelashes. Among at least some embodiments of the formula package 2, the curing agent formula (e.g., 2a, 2b, or 2c) and the cosmetic resin formula (e.g., 2a, 2b, or 2c) may be kept constant or substantially constant, and the customizable formula (e.g., 2a, 2b, or 2c) may vary for different uses or benefits provided by the use of different formula packages 2.For example, the stiffness or structural integrity of the formed filament may be increased or decreased for the production of longer or shorter eyelash filaments by using different packages of formulas 2, respectively, according to various embodiments.

[0037] Referring again to Figures 1 and 2, in embodiments, the device (1, 3) comprises a thermal sensor (1k, 3k), such as a thermometer, configured to measure a temperature of the composition within the interior volume of the device (1, 3) for a measured temperature, and circuitry operatively connected to the thermal sensor (1k, 3k) and operatively connected to and configured to control a function of the heating element (1k, 3k) for adjusting the temperature of the composition based on the measured temperature and a temperature threshold. The circuitry connected to the thermal sensor may route signals from the thermal sensor (1k, 3k) to logic circuitry of the device (or a computing device) for computationally determining whether the measured temperature is within or outside a temperature threshold or range. Based on the comparison, the logic circuitry may transmit signals or electrical current to or through the heating element (If, 3f), from the power source (Ir, 3r), or may refrain from doing so, to increase or decrease the heating of the composition by the heating element (If, 3f) and control the temperature of the composition. The temperature of the composition maintained by these elements may be particular to a curing process of the formulas or otherwise particular to the composition based on the plurality of formulas.

[0038] In embodiments, the device (1, 3) includes an accelerometer (11 3i), a gyroscope (11j, 3j), or both, operatively connected to the circuitry of the device (1, 3) for detecting a movement of the device (1, 3), an orientation of the device (1, 3), or both. In embodiments, the movement, orientation, or both, detected by one or both of these sensors or by one or more other sensors of the device (1, 3), may be used for determining, by the control circuitry of the device (1, 3), a status of a gesture used to apply the composition to the set of eyelashes by the device (1, 3).In embodiments, the status of the gesture correlates, at least partially with or within a tolerable range of, a motion value, an orientation value, or both, from a set of motion values, a set of orientation values, or both, that collectively constitute the gesture. A particular motion value of the set, an orientation value of the set, or both, is / are positioned within a workspace defined by a gesture start point and a gesture end point. The workspace defines the space, from the base of the eyelashes, for example, within which extrusion of the composition from the device is to apply the composition to the set of eyelashes.If, during the gesture, a user performing the gesture substantially deviates from the gesture defined by the set of motion values, the set of orientation values, or both, the device (1, 3) may perform an alerting action or a corrective action. The action may include issuing an alert to the user to pause, stop, continue, or adjust execution of the gesture; pausing or stopping a function of the device (1, 3) such as mixing, pumping, heating, extruding; or adjusting the function of the device (1, 3) to accommodate the user's deviation from optimal application of the composition and maintain application of the composition within an acceptable accuracy range. The alert may be an audible alert, a haptic or tactile alert, a visual alert, or any combination thereof.

[0039] Referring again to Figures 1 and 2, in embodiments, the device (1, 3) further comprises: a contact sensor (1g, 3g), a conductance sensor (Ih, 3h), or both, operatively connected to the circuitry of the device (1, 3) and configured for sensing a position of the device (1, 3) with respect to a facial feature of a subject whose eyelashes are to receive the composition thereon. The position of the device (1,3) with respect to the facial feature is used to determine, by the circuitry of the device (or a calculation device) whether or not the device (1,3) is positioned at a starting point of a gesture so that the device (1,3) is capable of applying the composition to all of the subject's eyelashes.For example, the contact sensor (1 g, 3 g), the conductance sensor (1 h, 3 h), or both, may be configured to detect contact of one or more contact sensor pins (Id, 3d) with the subject's eyelid or eyelashes, and a signal resulting from this contact may be transmitted from the contact sensor circuitry (1 g, 3 g) to the device's logic circuitry (or a computational device) for computational confirmation of the device's positioning, e.g., such that it may be used as a precondition for mixing, heating, or extruding the composition from the device (1,3).A sensor may be configured to transmit a small electrical current between two or more contact sensor pins (Id, 3d) upon contact of the pins (Id, 3d) with a substrate; in at least some embodiments, the electrical current resulting from contact of the pins with the substrate may be measured, by the device circuitry, and compared to identified current ranges for determination of the electrical resistance of the substrate and confirmation of the type of substrate being contacted (e.g., hair or fibers, skin, etc.). If, based on the sensor data and the result, the substrate contacted by the contact sensor pins (Id, 3d) is the intended substrate (e.g., eyelashes), the device may be configured for use.In this way, the device (1,3) can be configured to avoid deposition of the composition on a non-targeted surface, such as the skin or eyes or an inert object or surface.

[0040] In at least some embodiments, and as shown by way of example in [Fig. 2], a device 3 further comprises an optical system 3v operatively connected to the circuitry of the device 3 for detecting a position of the device 3 relative to a facial feature of the subject. The position of the device 3 relative to the facial feature is used for determining, by the circuitry of the device (or a calculation device), whether or not the device 3 is positioned at a starting point of a gesture for applying the composition to the set of eyelashes.In embodiments, the 3v optical system comprises: a 3x light element configured to irradiate the facial feature and a 3w infrared (IR) camera configured to capture an IR image of the facial feature and transmit data from the IR image to the device circuitry (or a computing device) to determine, by the circuitry, whether the device 3 is positioned at the starting point of the gesture to apply the composition to the set of eyelashes. In some embodiments. embodiment, the 3x light element emits at least red or infrared light, and the 3w infrared camera images light that reflects from the surface of the subject's skin, eyelashes, or eyes. In some embodiments, the 3v optical system may be calibrated for use with a particular subject by entering a calibration mode of the device 3, positioning the device 3 at the gesture start point, and registering the imagery of the subject's skin, eyelashes, or eyes at the gesture start point with a memory store of the device (or a computing device). In some embodiments, the 3v optical system may be calibrated or otherwise configured for use with any of a variety of subjects based on individual, group, or population calibration or usage data.In some embodiments, once calibrated, the optical system may image the subject's skin, eyelashes, or eyes and compare the captured images with the recorded image, with image analysis, to determine whether the device 3 is properly positioned for use. If, based on the optical system data and the result, the device 3 is positioned at the gesture start position, the device 3 may be configured for use. In this manner, the device 3 may be configured to avoid deposition of the composition on a non-target surface, such as the skin or eyes or an inert object or surface.

[0041] Referring again to Figures 1 and 2, a device (1, 3) may include a plurality of conductive bristles (1e, 3c) operatively connected to the power source (Ir, 3r) and configured to contain an electrical charge from the power source (Ir, 3r) and contact the eyelash assembly to transfer at least a portion of the electrical charge to the eyelash assembly. One or more of the eyelashes may thus have an electrical or ionic charge, such that the eyelash assembly is better able to bind to the composition when it is applied thereto. In these and other embodiments, the composition may include an ionic compound, or a plurality of compounds, that includes a charge or a net charge, respectively, that is opposite or complementary to an ionic charge of the primed eyelash fiber.In this manner, the ionic compound or plurality of compounds may ionically bond to the primed eyelash fiber, optionally in combination with one or more covalent bonds, to secure the eyelash filament to the eyelashes.

[0042] As shown in [Fig. 3], a printed circuit board 4m of a device 4 may include, among other things, a wireless transceiver 4y. In embodiments, the wireless transceiver 4y is operatively connected to circuitry of the device 4, and configured for wireless communication with a computing device 5 including circuitry for one or more user interactions with the device 4 by means of the computing device 5. The computing device 5 may be any electronic logic device, but in embodiments it may be a mobile phone, a tablet, a personal computer, a smartphone, and the like. Although not shown in Figures 1 and 2, the wireless transceiver 4y may be implemented in the exemplary embodiments of these and other figures of the disclosure, as well as their equivalents, without departing from the scope and spirit of the disclosure.

[0043] [Fig. 4] shows an exemplary form factor that may be used for implementing a device of the disclosure. A device 6 may be formed with a brush or rod form factor, and may include a handle 6a with an on / off control 6z thereon, as well as a head 6b. The head 6b may include a plurality of conductive bristles 6c for priming the eyelashes for receipt of the composition thereon, one or more contact sensor pins 6d configured for sensing contact with a surface, a plurality of bristles 6e, arranged in a brush configuration, for combing the eyelashes and facilitating application of the composition during use, and other elements of the device including a heating element and an extruded outlet 6f, a contact sensor with circuitry 6g, and a conductance sensor with circuitry 6h.During use, a user grasps the handle 6a, positions the head 6b so that the conductive bristles 6c or the bristles 6e contact the eyelashes, and activates the device 6 by operation of the on / off control 6z. The on / off control 6z may include a button, switch, or the like, for electronically activating one or more features of the device 6. Once activated, the device 6 may perform one or more controls to determine the relative positioning of the device 6, begin mixing, pumping, and heating the composition, and extrude the composition from the extruded outlet of the device 6 to deposit the composition onto the eyelashes.

[0044] [Fig. 5] shows another example of a form factor for a device of the disclosure. A device 7 may be configured in a shape that at least partially resembles an eyelash curler. The device 7 may include a handle 7a attached to a head, and the head may include conductive bristles 7c, a contact sensor pin 7d, and bristles 7e arranged in a gripper configuration. An optical system 7v may be included and positioned toward an upper portion of the device 7. During use, a user grasps the handle 7a, positions the head so that the conductive bristles 7c or the bristles 7e contact eyelashes, and activates the device 7 by operation of the on / off control 7z. The on / off control 7z may include a button, switch, or the like, for electronically activating one or more features of the device 7.Once activated, the device 7 can perform one or more checks to determine the positioning. relative to the device 7, start mixing, pumping and heating the composition, and extrude the composition from the extruded outlet of the device 7 to deposit the composition on the eyelashes.

[0045] In one aspect, the disclosure provides a kit comprising a device of the disclosure, a formula or formula package of the disclosure, instructional material for instructing a method of using the device to a user, or any combination thereof.

[0046] In one aspect, the disclosure provides a method of applying a composition to a set of eyelashes of a subject, the method comprising: positioning a device for applying the composition to the set of eyelashes at a start point of a gesture for applying the composition to the set of eyelashes; activating the device to activate and execute the gesture to apply the composition to the set of eyelashes; and positioning the device at an end point of the gesture, at which point the device ceases application of the composition to the set of eyelashes. In various embodiments, the method of applying the composition to the set of eyelashes of the subject may be performed at least in part by providing instructional material for instructing a method of using the device to a user.In some embodiments, the instructional material is provided to the user as part of a kit, for example, following purchase of the kit and, optionally, mail order or other physical delivery of the kit to the user or other individual. In some embodiments, the kit includes the device for applying the composition to the eyelash set, the formula or formula pack, a repair or modification element of the device, the instructional material, or any combination thereof.

[0047] Accordingly, as shown in [Fig. 8], an exemplary method of using 10 a device for applying moldable filament to eyelashes may include, in step 10a, starting; in step 10b, activating the eyelash device; in step 10c, positioning the eyelash device in the gesture start position; in step 10d, performing a gesture to apply the moldable filament to the eyelashes; in step 10e, positioning the eyelash device in the gesture end position; and in step 10f, ending.

[0048] In embodiments, the device may perform various operations to assist in applying the moldable filament to the eyelashes, as exemplified in [Fig. 9]. An exemplary method of operating a device for mixing, heating, and extruding a moldable filament onto eyelashes 11 includes, in step 11a, starting; in step 11b, activating heat, mixing, and dispensing elements; in step 11c, mixing a plurality of compositions to form a moldable filament; in step 1 ld, heat and extrude a moldable filament for application to eyelashes; and in step 1 If, end.

[0049] In various aspects, the disclosure provides a method of priming eyelashes for receipt of a composition thereon, using a device of the disclosure, as exemplified in [Fig. 6]. In some embodiments, the eyelashes may be primed prior to application of the composition thereto to enhance adhesion of the filament to the eyelashes, as described in more detail herein. Such a method 8 may include, in step 8a, beginning; in step 8b, activating the eyelash device; in step 8c, positioning the eyelash device in a gesture-starting position; in step 8d, performing a gesture to prime the eyelashes for receipt of the moldable filament; in step 8e, positioning the eyelash device in a gesture-ending position; and in step 8f, ending.In embodiments, the device may have two or more activation modes, for example, a priming mode (for priming eyelashes for receipt of a composition thereon) and an application mode (for applying a composition to a set of eyelashes of a subject).

[0050] In some embodiments, the device may perform various eyelash priming assistance operations. As shown by way of example in [Fig. 7], an exemplary method 9 of operating an eyelash priming device may include, in step 9a, start; in step 9b, detecting the gesture start position and activating the priming element (e.g., charge-conducting bristles); in step 9c, detecting movement and electrically priming eyelashes during the gesture with the priming element; in step 9d, detecting the gesture end position and deactivating the priming element; and in step 9e, end. In at least some embodiments, at least one of the detection steps 9b, 9c, and 9d may be performed, at least in part, by calculations performed by a computing device 9f operating device-compatible software ("APP"), for example.

[0051] In various aspects, the disclosure provides the concept of a working space, within which the device may be operable to prime eyelashes and apply the composition to the eyelashes. The working space may include all or a portion of a length of an eyelash, and in embodiments, may include an extension length that extends beyond the natural termination of an eyelash. The extension length may be quantified as a percentage of a natural length of the eyelash or simply as a unit of length. In embodiments, the extension length is a constant percentage or a variable percentage across a plurality of eyelashes within a set of eyelashes. In embodiments, the extension length is a constant length or a variable length across a plurality of eyelashes within a set of eyelashes.

[0052] The extension length may be selected by the user or subject, or may be customized for a particular application, for example, for use in art, film, studio, fashion, or makeup artistry to provide a particular or customized visual effect. The selection of a particular characteristic of the eyelash filament, such as the extension length, may be accomplished at least in part as a result of selecting a virtual representation of the applied eyelash filament, generated by a computing device, prior to the actual application of the eyelash filament thereto.For example, a camera of the device or a computing device may be used to capture an image of the eyelashes without the filament applied thereto, and the image used as a basis for generating one or more virtual representations of one or more selectable eyelash filaments, shown as one or more overlays on one or more instances of the image. Selecting an overlay image with a particular extension length or other characteristic may serve as an input that signals the device to be configured for application of the selected eyelash filament to the eyelashes during use.

[0053] With respect to the actual application of the composition, the device undergoes various operating steps in support of the process. [Fig. 10] shows a flowchart of an exemplary method 12 of operating a device for applying moldable filament to eyelashes within a workspace, according to aspects of the disclosure. The method 12 may include, in step 12a, starting; in step 12b, detecting the gesture start position and activating the heating and dispensing elements; in step 12c, detecting movement and heat and extruding the moldable filament for application to the eyelashes during the gesture with the dispensing element; in step 12d, detecting the gesture end position and deactivating the dispensing element; and in step 12e, ending.In at least some embodiments, at least one of the detection steps 12b, 12c and 12d may be performed, at least in part, by calculations performed by a computing device 12f operating software compatible with the device (“APP”), for example.

[0054] Accordingly, in some aspects, the disclosure provides a "smart" eyelash filament application device comprising circuitry configured to perform all or part of a process, including, but not necessarily limited to, controlling heating of the composition, controlling formula mixing for production of the composition, controlling a pump of the device for extrusion of the composition within a workspace based on sensor measurements, reporting a power source status including a charge status, controlling the charge of hair priming for use in priming eyelashes, and the like.

[0055] In some embodiments, circuitry of a device is configurable with a processor and processor-executable instructions stored on a non-transitory machine-readable medium of the device. In embodiments, a device includes a software application configured to perform all or part of one or more methods or processes of the disclosure, in any order or combination. However, in embodiments, a device includes dedicated hardware circuitry. Additional circuitry configuration of the device may include wireless communication or networking circuitry, e.g., circuitry configured for a wireless connection, such as a Bluetooth® connection, a Bluetooth® Low Energy (BLE) connection, and / or a Wi-Fi® connection, and / or a wired connection.The networking circuitry, in combination with other circuitry of the computing device, may be used to request, retrieve and / or receive data from a computing device or a remote server, for example.

[0056] In embodiments, the device may be managed, controlled, or operated using a computing device, such as a smartphone or personal computing device, which may be operated by a user via a graphical user interface, as known in the art. In embodiments, the circuitry may include an operative connection of one or more sensors with the processor, or other circuitry, to perform logical operations and / or methods based on data received from the one or more sensors, e.g., optical sensors, thermal sensors, and the like. PAINTINGS

[0057] [Table 1]

[0058] Table 1. References and descriptions of the drawings. Reference Description 1 Device Handle 1b Head Conductive Bristles Id Contact Sensor Pin Bristles If Heating Element and Extruded Output 1g Contact Sensor Circuitry Ih Conductance Sensor Circuitry li Accelerometer lj Gyroscope 1k Thermal Sensor 11 Processing Unit 1m Printed Circuit Board (PCB) In Mixer lo Motor 1P Pump iq Formula Mixing Elements lr Battery Power Source 1s Formula 1 Adapter It Formula 2 Adapter lu Formula 3 Adapter 2 Formula Pack 2a Formula 1 2b Formula 2 2c Formula 3 2d Formula Pack 1 Adapter 2e Formula Pack 2 Adapter 2f Formula Pack 3 Adapter 3 Device 3a Handle 3b Head 3c Conductive Bristles 3d Contact Sensor Pin 3e Bristles 3f Heater and Extruded Outlet 3g Contact Sensor Circuitry 3h Conductance Sensor Circuitry 3i Accelerometer 3j Gyroscope 3k Thermal Sensor 31 Processing Unit 3m Printed Circuit Board (PCB) 3n Mixer 3o Motor 3p Pump 3q Formula Mixing Elements 3r Battery Power Source 3s Formula 1 Adapter 3t Formula 2 Adapter 3u Formula 3 Adapter 3v Optical System 3w IR Camera 3x Light 4 Device 4m PCB 4y Wireless Transceiver 5 Calculating Device 6 Device 6a Handle 6b Head 6c Conductive Bristles 6d Contact Sensor Pin 6e Bristles 6f Heater and Extruded Outlet 6g Contact Sensor Circuitry 6h Conductance Sensor Circuitry 6z On / Off Control 7 Device 7a Handle 7c Conductive bristles 7d Contact sensor pin 7e Bristles 7v Optical system 7z On / off control 8 Method of using an eyelash priming device 8a Start 8b Activate the eyelash device 8c Position the eyelash device in the start-of-gesture position 8d Perform a gesture to prime the eyelashes for receiving the moldable filament 8e Position the eyelash device in the end-of-gesture position 8f End 9 Method of operating an eyelash priming device 9a Start 9b Detect the start-of-gesture position and activate the priming element 9c Detect movement and electrically prime the eyelashes during the gesture with the priming element 9d Detect the end-of-gesture position and deactivate the priming element 9e End 9f Calculation device 10 Method of using a device for applying soft filament to eyelashes 10a Start 10b Activate the eyelash device 10c Position the eyelash device in positionstart of gesture lOd Perform a gesture to apply the moldable filament to the eyelashes 10th Position the eyelash device in the end of gesture position lOf End 11 Method of operating a device for mixing, heating and extruding a moldable filament onto eyelashes 11a Start 11b Activate the heating, mixing and dispensing elements 11c Mix a plurality of compositions for moldable filament lld Heat and extrude the moldable filament for application to eyelashes llf End 12 Method of operating a device for applying moldable filament to eyelashes within a workspace 12a Start 12b Detect the start position of the gesture and activate the heating and dispensing elements 12c Detect movement and heat and extrude the moldable filament for application to eyelashes during the gesture with the dispensing element 12d Detect the end position of the gesture and deactivate the dispensing element 12e End 12f Computing device NON-LIMITING EMBODIMENTS

[0059] Although general features of the disclosure are described and shown and particular features of the disclosure are set forth in the claims, the following non-limiting embodiments relate to features, and combinations of features, that are explicitly contemplated as part of the disclosure. The following non-limiting embodiments contain elements that are modular and may be combined with each other in any number, order, or combination to form a new non-limiting embodiment, which may itself be further combined with other non-limiting embodiments.

[0060] Embodiment 1. Device for applying a composition to a set of eyelashes, the device comprising: a dispensing system, comprising: a motor operatively connected to a power source, a mixer operatively connected to the motor and configured to mix a plurality of formulas to produce the composition, and a pump operatively connected to the motor and configured to pump the composition through an interior volume of the device; and an application system, comprising: a heating element operatively connected to the power source and configured to heat the composition within the interior volume, and an extruded outlet fluidly connected to the interior volume for extrusion of the composition therefrom.

[0061] Embodiment 2. A device of any other embodiment, further comprising: a formula pack comprising the plurality of formulas, wherein the formula pack is reversibly attachable to a body of the device for delivery of the plurality of formulas to the mixer of the device to produce the composition.

[0062] Embodiment 3. A device of any other embodiment, wherein the plurality of formulas comprises: a resin formula and a curing formula.

[0063] Embodiment 4. Device of any other embodiment, wherein the plurality of formulas comprises: a customizable formula.

[0064] Embodiment 5. A device of any other embodiment, further comprising: a thermal sensor configured to measure a temperature of the composition within the interior volume of the device for a measured temperature, and circuitry operatively connected to the thermal sensor and configured to control a function of the heating element for adjusting the temperature of the composition based on the measured temperature and a temperature threshold.

[0065] Embodiment 6. Device of any other embodiment, in which the temperature threshold is specific to the composition based on the plurality of formulas.

[0066] Embodiment 7. A device of any other embodiment, further comprising: an accelerometer, a gyroscope, or both, operatively connected to the circuitry of the device for detecting a movement of the device, an orientation of the device, or both; wherein the movement, orientation, or both are used to determine a status of a gesture for applying the composition to the set of eyelashes by the circuitry.

[0067] Embodiment 8. A device of any other embodiment, wherein the gesture status is selected from a set of motion values, a set of orientation values, or both, positioned between a gesture start point and a gesture end point, which define a workspace within which extrusion of the composition from the device applies the composition to the set of eyelashes.

[0068] Embodiment 9. A device of any other embodiment, further comprising: a contact sensor, a conductance sensor, or both, connected operatively to the circuitry of the device for detecting a position of the device relative to a facial feature; wherein the position is used for determining, by the circuitry, whether the device is positioned at a starting point of a gesture for applying the composition to the set of eyelashes.

[0069] Embodiment 10. A device of any other embodiment, wherein a set of position values, positioned between the gesture start point and a gesture end point, defines a workspace within which extrusion of the composition from the device applies the composition to the set of eyelashes.

[0070] Embodiment 11. A device of any other embodiment, further comprising: an optical system operatively connected to the circuitry of the device for detecting a position of the device relative to a facial feature; wherein the position is used for determining, by the circuitry, whether the device is positioned at a starting point of a gesture for applying the composition to the set of eyelashes.

[0071] Embodiment 12. A device of any other embodiment, wherein the optical system comprises: a light element configured to irradiate the facial feature and an infrared (IR) camera configured to capture an IR image of the facial feature and transmit data from the IR image to the circuitry of the device for determination by the circuitry of whether the device is positioned at the starting point of the gesture to apply the composition to the set of eyelashes.

[0072] Embodiment 13. A device of any other embodiment, further comprising: a wireless transceiver, operatively connected to circuitry of the device, configured for wireless communication with a computing device comprising circuitry for user interaction with the device.

[0073] Embodiment 14. Device of any other embodiment, further comprising: a plurality of bristles, arranged in a brush configuration or a tweezer configuration, configured to contact the set of eyelashes for application of the composition thereto.

[0074] Embodiment 15. A device of any other embodiment, further comprising: a plurality of conductive bristles operatively connected to the power source and configured to contain an electrical charge from the power source and contact the eyelash assembly to transfer at least a portion of the electrical charge to the eyelash assembly, such that the eyelash assembly is primed to facilitate adhesion of the composition thereto.

[0075] Although illustrative embodiments have been illustrated and described, it should be appreciated that various changes may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

Claims

1. A device (1, 3, 4) for applying a composition to a set of eyelashes, the device (1, 3, 4) comprising: a dispensing system, comprising: a motor (lo, 3o) operatively connected to a power source (Ir, 3r), a mixer (In, 3n) operatively connected to the motor (lo, 3o) and configured to mix a plurality of formulas (2a, 2b, 2c) to produce the composition, and a pump operatively connected to the motor (lo, 3o) and configured to pump the composition through an interior volume of the device (1, 3, 4); an application system, comprising: a heating element (If, 3f) operatively connected to the power source (Ir, 3r) and configured to heat the composition within the interior volume, and an extruded outlet (If, 3f) fluidly connected to the interior volume for extrusion of the composition therefrom;and a formula pack (2) comprising the plurality of formulas (2a, 2b, 2c), wherein the formula pack (2) is reversibly attachable to a body of the device (1, 3, 4) for delivering the plurality of formulas (2a, 2b, 2c) to the mixer (In, 3n) of the device (1, 3, 4) for producing the composition.;

2. The device (1, 3, 4) of claim 1, further comprising: a thermal sensor (1k, 3k) configured to measure a temperature of the composition within the interior volume of the device (1, 3, 4) for a measured temperature, and circuitry operatively connected to the thermal sensor (1k, 3k) and configured to control a function of the heating element (If, 3f) for adjusting the temperature of the composition based on the measured temperature and a temperature threshold.

3. Device (1, 3, 4) according to claim 2, wherein the temperature threshold is specific to the composition based on the plurality of formulas (2a, 2b, 2c).

4. The device (1, 3, 4) of claim 1, further comprising: an accelerometer (11 3i), a gyroscope (11j, 3j), or both, operatively connected to the circuitry of the device (1, 3, 4) for detecting a movement of the device (1, 3, 4), an orientation of the device (1, 3, 4), or both; wherein the movement, orientation, or both are used to determine a status of a gesture to apply the composition to all the eyelashes by the circuitry.

5. The device (1, 3, 4) of claim 4, wherein the gesture status is selected from a set of motion values, a set of orientation values, or both, positioned between a gesture start point and a gesture end point, which define a workspace within which extrusion of the composition from the device (1, 3, 4) applies the composition to the set of eyelashes.

6. The device (1, 3, 4) of claim 1, further comprising: a contact sensor (1g, 3g), a conductance sensor (Ih, 3h), or both, operatively connected to the circuitry of the device (1, 3, 4) for detecting a position of the device (1, 3, 4) relative to a facial feature; wherein the position is used for determining, by the circuitry, whether the device (1, 3, 4) is positioned at a starting point of a gesture for applying the composition to the set of eyelashes.

7. The device (3) of claim 1, further comprising: an optical system (3v) operatively connected to the circuitry of the device (3) for detecting a position of the device (3) relative to a facial feature; wherein the position is used for determining, by the circuitry, whether the device (3) is positioned at a starting point of a gesture for applying the composition to the set of eyelashes.

8. The device (3) of claim 7, wherein the optical system (3v) comprises: a light element (3x) configured to irradiate the facial feature and an infrared (IR) camera (3w) configured to capture an IR image of the facial feature and transmit data from the IR image to the circuitry of the device (3) for determination, by the circuitry, of whether the device (3) is positioned at the starting point of the gesture for applying the composition to the set of eyelashes.

9. The device (1, 3, 4) of claim 1, further comprising: a wireless transceiver (4y), operatively connected to the circuitry of the device (1, 3, 4), configured for wireless communication with a computing device (5) comprising circuitry for user interaction with the device (1, 3, 4).

10. A device (1, 3, 4) according to claim 1, further comprising: a plurality of conductive bristles (1e, 3c) connected operatively to the power source (Ir, 3r) and configured to contain an electrical charge from the power source (Ir, 3r) and contact the eyelash assembly to transfer at least a portion of the electrical charge to the eyelash assembly, such that the eyelash assembly is primed to facilitate adhesion of the composition thereto.

Images