Providing guidance to device users

Abstract

The present invention discloses a computer-implemented guidance control method (400) that includes receiving (402) data related to a user's use of a device, determining (404) a usage quality metric for the user based on the received data, providing (406) first guidance data related to device usage for presentation to a user of the device, ceasing (408) presentation of the first guidance data to the user if the usage quality metric is greater than or equal to a first quality threshold 104, and providing (410) second guidance data for presentation to the user of the device if the usage quality metric is less than a second quality threshold 206.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to providing information to a user, and more particularly, to providing guidance data for presentation to a user of a device.

Background Art

[0002] By providing guidance to a user regarding the use of a device such as a personal care device, the overall experience and benefits of using the device are improved. Examples of ways to improve the user experience include cleaner shaving, reduced irritation to the skin during shaving, more thorough cleaning during an oral hygiene routine, and / or improved efficiency of the device during use.

[0003] A user of a device initially has only a relatively low skill level associated with the use of the device, which is improved when guidance is provided. As a result of the user's skill level improving, the user can obtain greater benefits from using the device, the user's satisfaction associated with the use of the device is improved, and the user is more likely to use this device again in the future. Guidance is provided to the user in several ways, such as via the device itself, via a connected speaker, or via another presentation device such as an interactive mirror. Guidance includes providing the user with instructions regarding the use of the device, such as moving the position of the device during use or prompting the user to perform a specific action.

[0004] Continuously providing guidance to the user leads to disengagement from the guidance and / or the device. Therefore, a system that can provide guidance to the user according to the user's skill level is desired in order to maximize the user's engagement with the guidance and thus maximize the user's skill and / or satisfaction regarding the use of the device.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] By using the device inaccurately or unfamiliarly, the user may become dissatisfied with the performance of the device and even attribute the poor performance of the device to malfunctions or deterioration of the device, or wrongly conclude that the performance of the device is due to the low quality of the device. To overcome this problem, guidance with instructions on how to use the device is provided to the user to improve the performance of the device and enhance the advantages of using the device. By providing guidance to the user, the level of skills associated with the user's use of the device is improved. The user's skill level is determined based on sensor data associated with the device.

[0006] However, when guidance is continuously provided to the user, including for example when the user is using the device proficiently, the user may tend to ignore or invalidate the instructions. To overcome this problem, when the user becomes proficient in using the device (i.e., when the user's skill level associated with the use of the device reaches or exceeds a threshold), the instructions are hidden. In both of the above scenarios, the user's skill level associated with the use of the device gradually decreases over time, and the user wrongly associates the decrease in the skill level associated with the use of the device with malfunctions, deterioration, or inherently low quality of the device again. Furthermore, a temporary decrease in the user's skill level associated with the use of the device is observed, and then the skill level returns to the previously acquired skill level. Alternatively, a rapid and consistent decrease in the user's skill level is observed. The embodiments disclosed herein recognize both types of skill decreases and take appropriate actions accordingly.

Means for Solving the Problem

[0007] Therefore, according to some embodiments, the guidance is provided to the user at a specific time and adjusted according to the user's current skill level and how that skill level has changed over time.

[0008] According to a first aspect, the present invention provides a guidance control method implemented by a computer, the guidance control method comprising receiving data related to the use of a device by a user, and based on the received data, determining the Degree of quality of use of the user, and providing first guidance data for presenting to the user of the device, the first guidance data being related to the use of the device, and providing Degree of quality of use stopping presenting the first guidance data to the user in response to a determination that is greater than or equal to a first quality threshold, and Degree of quality of use providing second guidance data for presenting to the user of the device in response to a determination that is less than a second quality threshold.

[0009] Advantageously, the method described herein improves the user's skill level associated with the use of the device, and thus simultaneously improves the effectiveness of the device in use and / or minimizes the time the user needs to use the device to achieve a desired result (e.g., reduction of facial hair of the user), while enhancing the benefit to the user. The method described herein also aims to improve the user's compliance with the provided guidance, thereby resulting in an improved result of the device in use (e.g., a cleaner shave). As a result of providing guidance only at a specific time (i.e., when the threshold is met) and / or an improved user satisfaction with the result of using the device, the user is relatively more likely to use this device again in the future.

[0010] In some embodiments, data is acquired using at least one sensor associated with the device.

[0011] In some embodiments, the data includes data selected from the group including a measure of the time spent using the device, a measure of the time spent performing a particular action using the device, the spatial scope of application of the device in use, the pressure applied to the surface by the device during use, and the orientation of the device during use.

[0012] In some embodiments, the guidance data relates to the optimal use of the device.

[0013] The first quality threshold, in some embodiments, includes a level at which the quality of the user's usage of the device is considered to be at the intended minimum quality level.

[0014] In some embodiments, the second quality threshold is determined based on at least one of the first quality threshold, the user's initial Degree of quality of use , the user's current Degree of quality of use , and the user's past Degree of quality of use .

[0015] The second guidance data, in some embodiments, Degree of quality of use is provided for presentation to the user in response to determining that it is below the second quality threshold over a defined period.

[0016] In some embodiments, the nature of the second guidance data is determined based on the rate of decrease of Degree of quality of use from the first quality threshold to the second quality threshold.

[0017] Providing the first guidance data and / or the second guidance data, in some embodiments, includes transmitting the first guidance data and / or the second guidance data to a connected device for presentation to the user.

[0018] According to a second aspect, the present invention provides a computer program product including a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the computer-readable medium having embodied computer-readable code which, when executed by a suitable computer or processor, configures the computer or processor to perform the method according to any of the preceding claims.

[0019] According to a third aspect, the present invention provides a guidance management device comprising a processor configured to receive data related to use of a device by a user, determine, based on the received data, a Degree of quality of use for the user, and provide first guidance data related to use of the device for presentation to the user of the device, Degree of quality of use responsive to a determination that the is greater than or equal to a first quality threshold, stop presenting the first guidance data to the user, and provide second guidance data for presentation to the user responsive to a determination that the quality measure is less than a second quality threshold.

[0020] According to a fourth aspect, the present invention provides a device comprising the guidance management device disclosed herein. The received data is related to use of the device.

[0021] In some embodiments, the device comprises a device selected from the group consisting of a personal care device, an oral care device, a haircut device, an interactive mirror, a medical device, a surgical device, and a tool.

[0022] The device, in some embodiments, comprises a sensor configured to acquire data related to use of the device by the user.

[0023] In some embodiments, the device comprises a guidance delivery unit configured to deliver the first guidance data and / or the second guidance data to the user of the device.

[0024] These and other aspects of the invention will become apparent and be elucidated with reference to the embodiments described hereinafter.

[0025] For a better understanding of the present invention and to more clearly show how the present invention is implemented, by way of example only, the accompanying drawings are referred to.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0026]

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Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0027] The embodiments disclosed herein provide a mechanism for determining when to provide guidance to a user of a device based on how the user uses the device, which represents the user's skill level or ability to use the device effectively or as intended. In the context of the present invention, the term "device" is intended to cover any type of device that can be used and that, during use Elements of skill can be used is intended to cover any type of device. The disclosed embodiments are applicable in a wide range of fields. In some of the examples described herein, the invention is described in the context of personal care, and some examples involve the use of personal care devices such as, for example, an electric toothbrush or a shaving device. As will be apparent from the following discussion, the present invention is equally applicable to other types of devices such as hair cutting devices, interactive mirrors, medical devices, surgical devices and tools, power tools, gardening tools, and the like.

[0028] When a user first uses a device, the initial skill level is relatively low. Without assistance or guidance, the user's initial skill level will not improve even with further use of the device. The user may wrongly associate the lack of skills related to the use of the device with malfunctions or deterioration of the device, or wrongly conclude that the device's performance is due to low device quality. To overcome this problem, guidance is provided to the device user to improve the user's skill level related to the use of the device. The guidance is provided auditorily, or visually, or by other means such as using touch. The guidance is provided via the device itself, or via a connected smart device such as a connected speaker or an interactive mirror. An interactive mirror, sometimes called a smart mirror, is a unit that not only functions as a mirror to show the user their reflection, but can also display information to the user. Information such as text, images, and videos is displayed, for example, on the display part of the interactive mirror arranged behind a mirror (or partial mirror) panel or a mirror surface (or partial mirror surface). In this way, since the display screen or a part thereof can be seen through the mirror part, the user can simultaneously see their reflection and the information presented on the display screen. In other examples, the interactive mirror uses a camera image to display an image like a mirror and mimics the mirror experience. The interactive mirror includes, for example, general information and / or entertainment elements, and items that directly enhance and support the user's personal care routine.

[0029] The user's skill level related to the use of the device is determined based on the perceived device usage quality measurement. The perceived Degree of quality of useIt is determined based on data related to the use of the device by the user. The data is obtained from one or more sensors associated with the device. The one or more sensors include a camera used to monitor the user and / or the device, sensors disposed within the device such as an accelerometer, an inertial measurement unit or a magnetometer, a pressure sensor disposed on or within the device, a weighing scale, a timer, a blood pressure sensor, a heart rate sensor, and the like. Alternatively or additionally, a questionnaire answered by the user is used to determine the perceived Degree of quality of use is determined. In some embodiments, the data from each of the one or more sensors is weighted according to the importance and / or relevance of each sensor in determining the perceived Degree of quality of use . Guidance is provided to the user of the device to improve the user's skill level associated with the use of the device. As a result of the improvement in the user's skill level, the user experiences an increase in the benefits associated with the use of the device (e.g., the user is more satisfied with the performance of the device), and thus maximizes the likelihood of continuing to use the device in accordance with the guidance provided to the user regarding how to use the device to achieve better results (e.g., a closer shave). If the guidance is provided continuously, the user is less likely to follow the guidance each time the device is used, for example, when the user is familiar with the use of the device. As a result, the user may even decide to ignore or disable the guidance, and over time, the user's skill level associated with the use of the device decreases. The embodiments described herein attempt to overcome these problems by providing guidance based on the user's skill level associated with the use of the device and / or based on how the user's skill level has changed over time.

[0030] The skill level of a user associated with the use of a device changes over time. In some embodiments, the skill level of the user is determined by calculating how data related to the use of the device by the user relates to the nominal ideal usage of the device. During a particular session of using the device, the data obtained regarding the use of the device by the user is referred to as sensed usage data. Such a session in which the device is used is referred to as a usage instance or usage session. The sensed usage data of the device by the user, and thus the skill level of the user associated with the use of the device, is determined based on one or more factors including a measure of the time spent using the device, a measure of the time spent performing a particular action using the device, the spatial application range of the device in use, the pressure applied to a surface by the device during use, the position of the device, and / or the orientation of the device in use. Examples of a measure of the time spent using the device include, for example, the time associated with a usage instance of the device, the total time the device has been used during its lifetime, the total time the device has been used by a particular user during its lifetime, or the total time the device has been used within a given period (e.g., the total time the device has been used within one week). A usage instance or use of the device is a given session of using the device, such as a given shaving or a given oral care routine. Examples of a particular action using the device include the percentage of time the user spent performing a rotational movement across the entire face for shaving, the time spent holding the shaving device in the same position, the deviation from the ideal pressure of the device on the surface of an object such as a body part of the user, the deviation from the ideal speed of movement of the device across the surface of an object such as a body part of the user (e.g., the speed of movement of the shaver head across the entire face of the user), the total time the device was used during a usage instance of the device (e.g., a particular shaving), the position of the device during the usage instance, and the like.Examples of the spatial application range of the device during a usage instance include measurements of the area of an object such as the area of the user's face covered during a usage instance of the device (e.g., during a given shaving), measurements of the area of the user's tooth surface to which a toothbrush head is applied during an oral care routine, and measurements of the application range of the user's tooth surface during a usage instance of the device. Examples of the pressure applied to the surface by the device during a usage instance include the pressure when the user applies the shaver head to the face and the pressure the user applies to their teeth with the toothbrush head. Examples of the orientation of the device during a usage instance include the display of the orientation in which the user holds the device or the display of a change in the orientation of the device (e.g., the angle of the device relative to the user's skin). In some embodiments, the nominal ideal usage is considered to be the level that the user is intended to reach. In other embodiments, the nominal ideal usage is a usage level that exceeds what the user has been able to reach so far. The nominal ideal usage corresponds to a sub-optimal usage of the device (e.g., a usage where the highest achievable shaving is not obtained) or an optimal usage of the device (e.g., when the highest achievable shaving is obtained). The nominal ideal usage is specific to the user of the device and depends on the user's characteristics or traits. The determination of the user's characteristics or traits is based on the evaluation of the user's image or a questionnaire and / or on data obtained in association with the user's use of the device. For example, a user with hair only in the area of the mustache has different optimal usages of movement, duration, and pressure when using a shaving device compared to a user with facial and neck hair. In another example, a user who uses partial dentures has different ideal usages compared to a user with all natural teeth because they do not brush all areas of their teeth. The nominal ideal usage is a predetermined value that does not change over time. Alternatively, the nominal ideal usage is a dynamic value that changes over time and depends on factors such as the age of the device, the length of time the device has been used over its lifespan, the power available to the device, etc. The nominal ideal usage is defined, for example, by the manufacturer of the device.The nominal ideal usage depends on the type of device.

[0031] Referring now to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates how a user's skill level associated with the use of a device changes over time. The x-axis (horizontal axis) represents time, which increases from left to right. The y-axis (vertical axis) represents the user's skill level associated with the use of the device, and the skill level increases from bottom to top. The user's skill level at a particular time is represented by the height of the corresponding bar (e.g., bar 100). The user's initial skill level 102 is represented by the lower horizontal dashed line. Over time (i.e., from left to right), the user's skill level generally increases from the initial skill level 102, which is represented by the increasing height of the bar. If no guidance is provided to the user on how to use the device to achieve better results (e.g., a cleaner shave), the user's skill level either does not increase from the user's initial skill level 102 or increases relatively slowly from the initial skill level 102. Without guidance provided to the user, the user will never become proficient in using the device. In contrast, when guidance is provided to the user of the device, the user's skill level improves relatively rapidly. As a result of providing guidance to the user, the user becomes proficient in using the device.

[0032] The evaluation of whether a user is proficient in using a device is based on one or more criteria. In some embodiments, if it is determined that the user's skill level meets or exceeds a first threshold skill level, the user is considered to be proficient in using the device. The first threshold skill level is referred to as the first quality threshold. The first threshold skill level is represented by the dashed line 104 in FIG. 1. The first threshold skill level 104 varies depending on the user and / or the nature or type of the device (e.g., whether the device is a shaver, toothbrush, etc.). For example, the first threshold skill level 104 depends on the user's initial skill level 102, the user's current skill level, and / or how the user's skill level has changed over time (e.g., between the user's initial skill level and the current skill level). In some examples, evaluating how the user's skill level has changed over time involves evaluating the variability of the user's previous skill level (i.e., the user's skill level during a usage instance prior to the current usage instance) and / or the rate of change of the user's skill level over time. Alternatively, the first threshold skill level 104 is a predetermined value (e.g., set by the manufacturer). As previously explained, the user's skill level is determined by calculating how data related to the user's use of the device relates to the nominally ideal usage of the device. When the change in sensor data related to the user's use of the device indicates that the use of the device more closely corresponds to the nominally ideal usage associated with the device, the user's skill level is determined to increase. In some examples, the first threshold skill level 104 is lower than the skill level associated with the nominally ideal usage of the device. In other examples, the first threshold skill level 104 is equal to the skill level associated with the nominally ideal usage of the device. In yet another embodiment, the first threshold skill level 104 is higher than the skill level associated with the nominally ideal usage of the device.

[0033] In some embodiments, as soon as it is determined that the perceived skill level meets or exceeds a first threshold skill level 104 (i.e., the instant the user's perceived skill level meets or exceeds the first threshold skill level 104 required for proficiency during a usage instance of the device), the user is considered to be proficient in using the device. An example of how this scenario might occur includes a situation where, during shaving, the user's skill level is determined to be at or above the first threshold skill level 104 (i.e., the skill level associated with proficient use of the device). In this case, within the same usage instance (e.g., during the same shaving), the user is considered to be proficient in using the device regardless of whether the user's skill level remains at or above the first threshold skill level 104 or drops below the first threshold skill level 104 again. In other embodiments, the user's perceived skill level needs to meet or exceed the first threshold skill level 104 for a minimum percentage of the time associated with the usage instance of the device. For example, for the user to be considered proficient in using the device, the user's skill level needs to meet or exceed the first threshold skill level 104 for at least half of the time spent shaving during a usage instance of the device (e.g., a given shaving). Thus, when the user's skill level equals or exceeds the first threshold skill level 104, or when it is determined that the user's skill level meets or exceeds the first threshold skill level 104 for a minimum amount of time during the usage instance of the device, the user is determined to be using the device proficiently. In some embodiments, the average of the user's skill levels is determined over the course of the usage instance (e.g., over the course of a shaving session). If the user's average skill level meets or exceeds the first threshold skill level 104, the user is determined to be using the device proficiently during the usage instance of the device.

[0034] In other embodiments, the user is considered proficient in using the device only if the skill level associated with the use of the device (e.g., during a usage instance of the device) is 104 or higher than the first threshold skill level during two or more consecutive usage instances of the device. In yet another embodiment, the user is considered proficient in using the device if the skill level associated with the use of the device is 104 or higher than the first threshold skill level during a defined number of usage instances of the device (e.g., if the user's skill level meets or exceeds the first threshold skill level 104 in any four usage instances of the device). In other embodiments, the user is considered proficient in using the device if the skill level associated with the use of the device is 104 or higher than the first threshold skill level for a defined number of usage instances of the device within a given period or within a defined percentage of the usage instances of the device (e.g., if the user's skill level meets or exceeds the first threshold skill level 104 in any four of five consecutive usage instances of the device). In some examples, the user needs to use the device proficiently for a minimum amount of time or during a minimum number of usage instances of the device before being considered proficient in using the device. For example, the user needs to demonstrate that the skill level associated with the use of the device is 104 or higher than the first threshold skill level for a predetermined period such as one day, two days, one week, one month, etc. In some embodiments, the user's skill level associated with the use of the device is determined by using the rolling average of a defined number of the latest usage instances. For example, the average skill level of the user is calculated using the skill levels of the latest 12 shavings. In yet another embodiment, an algorithm such as a curve fitting algorithm that predicts the user's future skill level associated with the use of the device based on one or more previous skill levels is applied. The guidance is stopped or resumed based on the output of the algorithm.Alternatively or additionally, it is determined when to stop or resume guidance by using the tracking of delta values associated with usage instances. Whether the skill level associated with a usage instance of the device is considered to be at or above a first threshold skill level 104, i.e., whether the user's perceived skill level increases to a level at or above the first threshold skill level 104, whether the user's perceived skill level increases to a level at or above the first threshold skill level 104 for a minimum time during the usage instance of the device, or whether the average skill level of the user during the usage instance is at or above the first threshold skill level 104, is evaluated using any of the aforementioned methods. Using other criteria, whether the user is proficient in using the device is determined alone or in combination with the aforementioned criteria.

[0035] The increase in the user's skill level from the initial skill level 102 to the currently achieved skill level (i.e., the increased skill level) is called the achieved improvement. Arrow 106 in FIG. 1 represents the difference between the initial skill level 102 of the user associated with the use of the device and the first threshold skill level 104. The skill level perceived by the user is tracked over time both before and after the user becomes proficient in using the device. Period 108 represents the time during which the user acquires the usage method of the device (i.e., the period during which guidance is provided to the user). The user's skill level increases within period 108. Period 110 represents the time during which the user is considered to be proficient in using the device.

[0036] When a user first uses the device, guidance is provided to the user of the device. The guidance data is related to the optimal use of the device. For example, the guidance data is intended to guide the user to improve the use of the device so as to improve the user's skill level and / or bring the user's use of the device closer to the nominal ideal usage. The guidance has the provision of first guidance data for presentation to the user of the device based on the received data related to the user's use of the device. The guidance is specific to the user, and thus the method has the identification of the user (e.g., using facial recognition techniques or other techniques that use the user's personal data) to determine whether to provide guidance to the user or which guidance to provide to the user. In some embodiments, the user is identified by using, for example, toothbrush head identification information associated with a particular individual user from an RFID tag disposed on the toothbrush head that is read by the toothbrush. A further example of how the user is identified relates to a shaving device that is paired to a personal smart device such as a smartphone via a wireless connection (e.g., Bluetooth® (RTM)). The guidance varies according to the user's initial skill level 102 and adapts in content and nature over time. The guidance is changed by the user's response to the guidance. When guidance is provided to the user, the user's skill level is improved. The guidance is provided to the user via audible, visual, tactile, olfactory, or gustatory means. In some embodiments, the guidance is provided to the user via the device itself, e.g., via an integrated speaker. In some examples, the feedback is provided to the user via a connected device including a speaker, smartphone, interactive mirror, etc. In some examples, the feedback is provided visually to the user via an interactive mirror, including instructions by text displayed on the mirror.Alternatively or additionally, the guidance is provided to the user in an image via the interactive mirror, for example, by indicating how the user should position the device, indicating whether the user needs to apply the device to the surface (e.g., a part of the body) with more or less pressure, and displaying a timer indicating the remaining time for which the device should be used. As the user becomes proficient in using the device, the guidance is stopped or reduced. Regardless of whether the user gives permission, the guidance is stopped or reduced.

[0037] Figure 2 is a plot showing how the user's skill level associated with the use of the device changes over time. Specifically, Figure 2 shows the user's skill level at a particular time, as represented by the height of a bar (e.g., bar 200). The first threshold skill level 104 (i.e., the skill level associated with proficiency in device usage) is indicated by the dashed line 104. Over time, the user's skill level associated with the use of the device decreases towards the initial skill level 102. As the user's skill level decreases, the quality of the device's functionality correspondingly decreases, but this is generally not recognized by the user. The user erroneously considers the decrease in the quality of the device's functionality as a malfunction or deterioration of the device. The user's skill level falls below the previously determined first threshold skill level 104.

[0038] In some embodiments, if the user's skill level during a usage instance of the device is below a first threshold skill level 104 (i.e., if it is determined that the user's skill level during the usage instance of the device is less than the first threshold skill level 104), the guidance is resumed. In other embodiments, if it is determined that the user's skill level is less than the first threshold skill level 104, the guidance is not resumed. In some embodiments, the guidance is resumed only if it is determined that the user's skill level is less than the first threshold skill level 104 during two or more consecutive usage instances of the device. In some embodiments, the guidance is resumed only if it is determined that the user's skill level is less than the first threshold skill level 104 for a defined number of usage instances of the device (e.g., if it is determined that the user's perceived skill level is less than the first threshold skill level 104 during any four of the device's usage instances). In some embodiments, the guidance is resumed only if it is determined that the user's skill level is less than the first threshold skill level 104 for a defined number of usage instances of the device within a given period, or for a defined percentage of the device's usage instances (e.g., if it is determined that the user's skill level is less than the first threshold skill level 104 during any four of five consecutive usage instances of the device). In some embodiments, the guidance is resumed only if it is determined that the user's skill level is less than the first threshold skill level 104 for a minimum time or for a minimum number of usage instances of the device. For example, if the user's skill level associated with the usage of the device is less than the first threshold skill level 104 for a predetermined time such as one day, two days, one week, one month, etc., the guidance is reintroduced.In some embodiments, if the user's skill level associated with the use of the device is less than the user's initial skill level, guidance is reintroduced regardless of any other threshold conditions (e.g., even if the user's skill level does not fall below a first threshold skill level 104 for a given time).

[0039] As previously explained, the user's skill level associated with the use of the device is determined instantaneously or for each instance of the usage method of the device (e.g., the average skill value for a given shaving). For example, the user's skill level is determined based on the average skill level of the user during the usage instance. The general decline in the user's skill during period 202 is shown in FIG. 2. As shown in FIG. 2, the user's skill level can either increase or decrease. The overall decline in the user's skill during period 202 is due to the guidance being stopped (i.e., no guidance is provided to the user). Over time, the user's skill level associated with the use of the device significantly and consistently declines to a nearly constant level, as shown by the user's skill level during period 204 in FIG. 2 (e.g., the user's skill level during period 204 is relatively and consistently lower than the first threshold skill level 104). When the absolute difference between the first threshold skill level 104 and the user's current skill level exceeds the threshold, when the absolute difference between the user's maximum achievable skill level and the user's current skill level exceeds the threshold, when the user's current skill level drops below a predetermined percentage of the first threshold skill level 104 (e.g., when the user's current skill level drops below 50% of the first threshold skill level 104), when the user's current skill level drops below a predetermined percentage of the user's maximum achievable skill level, when the user's current skill level drops more than one standard deviation below the first threshold skill level 104, etc., the decline in the user's skill level is considered significant. In some embodiments, two or more criteria (e.g., as described above) are applied to determine whether the decline in the user's skill level associated with the use of the device is significant. The change in the user's skill level is determined based on the difference between the first threshold skill level 104 (i.e., the skill level associated with proficiency in the device usage method) and the user's current skill level.The user's current skill level is the instantaneous skill level, the skill level associated with the current or most recent usage instance of the device (e.g., the average skill level of the user during the usage instance), or the user's skill level associated with a defined number of usage instances of the device (e.g., two or more usage instances) (e.g., the average of the user's skill levels associated with two usage instances of the device). If it is determined that the user's current skill level is less than the second threshold skill level 206, it is desirable to provide guidance to the user to improve the user's current skill level. The difference between the first threshold skill level 104 and the second threshold skill level 206 associated with device usage is indicated by arrow 208 in FIG. 2. The time at which the guidance resumes is indicated by arrow 210 in FIG. 2. Various techniques are used to determine when to resume the guidance.

[0040] In some embodiments, guidance is resumed only if the user's skill level during a usage instance of the device is below a second threshold skill level 206 (i.e., if it is determined that the user's skill level during a usage instance of the device is below the second threshold skill level 206). The second threshold skill level is indicated by line 206 in FIG. 2. The second threshold skill level 206 is referred to as the second quality threshold. As previously explained, the user's skill level associated with the use of the device is determined instantaneously or for each usage instance of the device (e.g., a given shaving). For example, the user's skill level during a usage instance is considered to have fallen below the second threshold skill level 206 at the instant it is determined that the user's skill level is below the second threshold skill level 206 (i.e., at any point during the usage instance). In other examples, the user's skill level associated with a usage instance is considered to be below the second threshold skill level 206 only if it is determined that the average skill level of the user for that usage instance is below the second threshold skill level 206. In other embodiments, guidance is resumed only if the user's skill level is determined to be below the second threshold skill level 206 during two or more consecutive usage instances of the device. In some embodiments, guidance is resumed only if the user's skill level is determined to be below the second threshold skill level 206 during a defined number of usage instances (e.g., if the user's perceived skill level is determined to be below the second threshold skill level 206 during any four usage instances of the device).In some embodiments, guidance is resumed only if the user's skill level is determined to be less than a second threshold skill level 206 for a defined number of usage instances of the device within a given period, or for a defined percentage of usage instances of the device (e.g., if the user's skill level is determined to be less than the second threshold skill level 206 during any 4 of 5 consecutive usage instances of the device). In some embodiments, guidance is resumed only if the user's skill level is determined to be less than the second threshold skill level 206 for a minimum amount of time, or during a minimum number of usage instances of the device. For example, the user may need to demonstrate that the skill level associated with the use of the device is less than the second threshold skill level 206 for a predetermined period such as 1 day, 2 days, 1 week, 1 month, etc.

[0041] The second threshold skill level 206 is a constant value or a dynamic value that changes over time. The second threshold skill level 206 is a predetermined value (e.g., set by a manufacturer) or varies according to the user. The second threshold skill level 206 depends on the user's initial skill level 102, the user's current skill level, a nominal ideal usage, the general average skill level of users of the device (i.e., the average skill level based on one or more users of the device who are not the current user of the device), the average skill level of users of devices similar to the user (i.e., the average skill level based on one or more users of the device who are determined to be similar to the current user of the device and not the current user of the device), and / or how the user's skill level has changed over time (e.g., the difference between the user's initial skill level and the current skill level). In some examples, the second threshold skill level 206 depends on the first threshold skill level 104 and / or the user's initial skill level. For example, the second threshold skill level 206 is determined to be 80% of the first threshold skill level 104, or the second threshold skill level 206 is determined to be a higher value that is 50% of the nominal ideal usage and 65% of the first threshold skill level 104. Advantageously, the difference between the first threshold skill level 104 and the second threshold skill level 206 is determined or set to be large enough so that newly delivered guidance results in a significant improvement in the perceived quality of the function, which is a significant benefit to the user.

[0042] As described above, the skill level of the user associated with the use of the device (i.e., Degree of quality of use) is less than the second threshold skill level 206 (i.e., less than the second quality threshold), second guidance data is provided to the user of the device for presentation. In some embodiments, the second guidance data is the same as the first guidance data. In other embodiments, the second guidance data is different from the first guidance data. The second guidance data provides information to the user to assist in improving the skill level associated with the use of the device. The guidance data is part of the device's instruction program or data that provides hints or advice related to or improving the results of the device by changing the way the device is used. Guidance includes, for example, text or voice instructions, illustrations, drawings, videos, animations, etc. intended to guide the user to improve the use of the device.

[0043] Figures 3A and 3B show data plotted on two graphs related to two exemplary scenarios. Figure 3A shows a decrease in the user's skill level associated with the use of the device, followed by an increase in the user skill level (shown by the change in the height of the bar during the period labeled 300). Figure 3B shows a consistent decrease in the user's skill level (shown by the change in the height of the bar during the period labeled 302). In Figure 3A, the temporary decrease in the user's skill level occurs for many reasons, including, for example, the user not paying enough attention to the use of the device, a second user who is not familiar with the use of the device using the device, and the device having insufficient power. The dashed line 104 indicates the first threshold skill level (i.e., the skill level associated with the proficiency of the device usage method). The decrease shown in Figure 3A is considered significant, but this decrease is not considered consistent (e.g., a consistent decrease is a decrease in skill level that occurs during multiple usage instances of the device), and in this case, the guidance is not resumed. In some embodiments, it may be desirable to resume the guidance even if the skill level temporarily decreases (e.g., for the reminder to function as a reminder for the user to use the device correctly). In Figure 3B, the decrease in the user's skill level associated with the use of the device can be considered significant and consistent (e.g., it occurs during two or more usage instances of the device). In this case, it is desirable to provide guidance to the user. This guidance is called the second guidance. In some examples, the second guidance is the same as the first guidance. In other examples, the second guidance is different from the first guidance (e.g., the second guidance is shorter than the first guidance). When the user consciously ignores the previous guidance or the ability of the user using the device decreases (e.g., when the user forgets the techniques provided in the first guidance), the case shown in Figure 3B occurs, leading to a significant and consistent decrease in the skill level.

[0044] Accordingly, a method is provided according to the first aspect. FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating the steps of a guidance control method 400. This method can be regarded as a method implemented by a computer. Step 402 of this method involves receiving data related to the use of a device by a user. The data is acquired using at least one sensor associated with the device. Alternatively or additionally, the data is obtained from a memory such as the memory of the device or a memory stored outside the device that communicates with the device. The data stored in the memory includes data related to past measurements of at least one sensor associated with the device.

[0045] Step 404 of this method involves determining the Degree of quality of use of the user based on the received data.

[0046] Step 406 of the method involves providing first guidance data for presentation to the user of the device, and the first guidance data is related to the use of the device.

[0047] Step 408 of this method involves Degree of quality of use stopping the presentation of the first guidance data to the user in response to a determination that it is above a first quality threshold.

[0048] Step 410 of this method involves Degree of quality of use providing second guidance data for presentation to the user of the device in response to a determination that it is below a second quality threshold.

[0049] The steps of method 400 are performed using one or more processors of one or more devices or apparatuses described herein. In some embodiments, method 400 is performed by a remote processing facility (e.g., in a cloud computing environment), while in other embodiments, the method is performed by a device or any other device having processing capabilities (e.g., a computing device) with respect to what data is acquired. In some embodiments, method 400 further includes the steps discussed in the examples above.

[0050] According to a second aspect, a computer program product is provided. FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of an example of a computer-readable medium communicating with a processor. According to some embodiments, the computer program product includes a non-transitory computer-readable medium 500. The computer-readable medium 500 has computer-readable code embodied therein, and the computer-readable code is configured such that when executed by a suitable computer or processor 502, the computer or processor 502 performs the steps of method 400 described herein. In some embodiments, the computer or processor 502 causes other steps to be performed as discussed in the examples above.

[0051] According to a third aspect, an apparatus is provided. FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of an example of a guidance management apparatus 600 including a processor 602 configured to perform the method described herein. Specifically, in some embodiments, the processor 602 receives data related to the use of a device by a user and, based on the received data, determines the Degree of quality of use and provides first guidance data related to the use of the device for presentation to the user of the device, Degree of quality of use stops presenting the first guidance data to the user in response to a determination that the Degree of quality of useconfigured to provide second guidance data for presentation to a user in response to a determination that the second quality threshold is not met. The processor 602 includes, or is similar to, the processor 502 discussed above. The guidance management device 600 is incorporated into the device as described below, or distributes the first and second guidance data to another device for presentation to the user. The guidance management device 600 includes, in some embodiments, a storage unit (e.g., memory) for storing the received data. For example, data related to past usage instances of the device is stored and used to determine the first guidance threshold and / or the second guidance threshold.

[0052] According to a fourth aspect, a device is provided. FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of an example of a device 700 comprising a guidance management device 600 according to the description included herein. The received data is related to the use of the device 700. In other words, the device (e.g., an electric toothbrush or a shaving device) also includes a guidance management device 600 in terms of what usage data has been received. In this way, the user can receive feedback (e.g., guidance) according to the present invention directly from the device itself. As described above, the device includes any type of device whose use is monitored and details of the guidance related to its use are provided to the user.

[0053] FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of a further example of a device 700 comprising a guidance management device 600 according to the description included herein. In the example shown in FIG. 8, the device 700 comprises a sensor 802 configured to acquire data related to the use of the device 700 by a user. The sensor 802 comprises a device discussed in the above example (e.g., a force sensor configured to measure the force applied by a toothbrush head to a user's teeth). The device 700 comprises a guidance delivery unit 804 configured to deliver first guidance data and / or second guidance data to a user of the device 700. The guidance delivery unit 804 comprises, for example, a user interface, a display screen, a speaker, etc., that can present guidance to the user.

[0054] The processors 502, 602 can comprise one or more processors, processing units, multi-core processors or modules configured or programmed to control the device 600 or the device 700 in accordance with the techniques described herein. In certain implementations, the processors 502, 602 can comprise a plurality of software and / or hardware modules each configured to perform, or for performing, individual steps or multiple steps of the methods described herein.

[0055] As used herein, the term "module" is intended to include hardware components such as a processor or a component of a processor configured to perform a particular function, or software components such as a set of instruction data having a particular function when executed by a processor.

[0056] Embodiments of the present invention are understood to be applicable also to a computer program adapted to implement the present invention, in particular to a computer program on or in a carrier. The program may be in the form of object code, such as source code, object code, intermediate source code in the code, and partially compiled form, or in any other form suitable for use in implementing the method according to embodiments of the present invention. It will also be understood that such a program may have many different architecture designs. For example, the program code implementing the functions of the method or system according to the present invention is subdivided into one or more subroutines. Many different ways of distributing functions among these subroutines will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The subroutines are stored together in one executable file to form a self - contained program. Such an executable file contains computer - executable instructions, such as processor instructions and / or interpreter instructions (e.g., Java interpreter instructions). Alternatively, one or more or all of the subroutines may be stored in at least one external library file and linked statically or dynamically to the main program, for example, at runtime. The main program includes at least one call to at least one subroutine. The subroutines also include mutual function calls. Embodiments related to computer program products include computer - executable instructions corresponding to each processing step of at least one of the methods described herein. These instructions are subdivided into subroutines and stored in one or more files that are linked statically or dynamically. Another embodiment related to computer program products includes computer - executable instructions corresponding to at least one of each means of the system and / or product described herein. These instructions are subdivided into subroutines and stored in one or more files that are linked statically or dynamically.

[0057] A carrier of a computer program is any entity or device capable of transmitting the program. For example, the carrier includes data storage such as a flash memory module, ROM, CDROM, or semiconductor ROM, or a magnetic recording medium such as a hard disk. Further, the carrier is a transmissible carrier such as an electrical or optical signal transmitted via an electrical or optical cable or by wireless or other means. When the program is embodied in such a signal, the carrier is constituted by such a cable or other device or means. Alternatively, the carrier is an integrated circuit in which the program is embedded, and the integrated circuit is adapted to execute the related method or is used during its execution.

[0058] Variations to the disclosed embodiments will be understood and effected by those skilled in the art in practicing the claimed invention, by considering the drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the singular does not exclude the plural. A single processor or other unit may perform the functions of several items recited in the claims. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be advantageously used. The computer program may be stored / distributed on a suitable medium such as an optical storage medium or a solid state medium supplied together with or as part of other hardware, but may also be distributed in other forms such as via the Internet or other wired or wireless communication systems. Reference signs in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope.

Claims

1. A guidance control method implemented by a computer, comprising: receiving data related to the use of a device by a user; determining a degree of the user's quality of use based on the received data; providing first guidance data for presenting to the user of the device, the first guidance data being related to the use of the device; stopping presenting the first guidance data to the user in response to a determination that the degree of the quality of use is equal to or higher than a first quality threshold; providing second guidance data for presenting to the user of the device in response to a determination that the degree of the quality of use is lower than the first quality threshold and lower than a second quality threshold, the second guidance data being the same as or different from the first guidance data; A method comprising the above steps.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the data is acquired using at least one sensor associated with the device.

3. The data includes: data selected from the group including time spent using the device, time spent performing a specific action using the device, spatial application range of the movement of the device during use, pressure applied to the surface of the user's body part by the device during use, and orientation of the device during use, according to the method of claim 1 or 2.

4. The guidance data is related to optimal use of the device, according to the method of any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The first quality threshold includes a level at which the degree of the quality of use of the device by the user is considered to be an intended minimum quality of use level, according to the method of any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The second quality threshold is determined based on at least one of the first quality threshold, the degree of the user's initial quality of use, the degree of the user's current quality of use, and the degree of the user's past quality of use, according to the method of any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the second guidance data is provided to be presented to the user in response to determining that the degree of the usage quality is less than the second quality threshold over a defined period.

8. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the first quality threshold and / or the second quality threshold is determined based on a change over time of the degree of the usage quality.

9. The step of providing the first guidance data and / or the second guidance data includes the step of transmitting the first guidance data and / or the second guidance data to another device connected to the device for presentation to the user. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. A non-transitory computer-readable medium having embodied computer-readable code, wherein when the computer-readable code is executed by a suitable computer or processor, the computer or processor is caused to execute the method according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. Receiving data related to the use of a device by a user, Determining the degree of the usage quality of the user based on the received data, Providing first guidance data regarding the use of the device for presentation to the user of the device, Stopping the presentation of the first guidance data to the user in response to determining that the degree of the usage quality is equal to or higher than a first quality threshold, Providing second guidance data for presentation to the user in response to determining that the degree of the usage quality is less than a second quality threshold lower than the first quality threshold A guidance management device comprising a processor, wherein the second guidance data is the same as or different from the first guidance data.

12. A device comprising the guidance management device according to claim 11, wherein the received data is related to the use of the device.

13. The device is a device selected from the group comprising a personal care device, an oral care device, a hair cutting device, an interactive mirror, a medical device, a surgical device, and a tool. The device according to claim 12.

14. The device according to claim 12 or 13, further comprising a sensor that acquires the data related to the use of the device by the user.

15. The device according to any one of claims 12 to 14, further comprising a guidance distribution unit that distributes the first guidance data and / or the second guidance data to the user of the device.

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