Adjusting Lighting Conditions

Abstract

According to one aspect, a computer-implemented method 100 for adjusting lighting conditions is provided, the method comprising receiving (102) device usage data relating to use of a personal care device by a subject during a use event, estimating (104) a current emotional state of the subject based on the device usage data, receiving (106) an indication of a target emotional state of the subject, determining (108) lighting parameters to be applied to a light source to assist the subject in reaching the target emotional state based on the target emotional state of the subject, and operating (110) the light source to emit light in accordance with the determined lighting parameters.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to adjusting lighting conditions, and more particularly to adjusting lighting conditions based on the emotional state of a person while using a personal care device. [Background technology]

[0002] When a person performs a personal care activity, such as shaving, or performs any other procedure on the body, various factors affect the performance of the activity. In particular, some factors may enable a person (e.g., a user of a personal care device) to perform the activity more effectively or less effectively.

[0003] One example of a factor that affects a subject's ability to perform personal care activities to a high standard is the person's mood or emotional state. For example, a person who is in a bad mood or negative emotional state will not perform personal care activities particularly well or effectively, whereas a person who is in a good or positive high emotional state will perform personal care activities much better or more effectively. Moreover, misuse of a personal care device while a subject is in a lethargic or negative emotional state can have safety consequences, for example leading to skin damage, dermatitis, or bruising. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] If a person has a negative experience when performing a personal care activity (e.g., performing the activity or procedure does not give the person the results they expected or anticipated), the person will spend less money performing that activity in the future, which in turn may lead to the person disliking the personal care activity. Therefore, there is a need for a way to enhance or maintain a person's mood or emotional state while performing a personal care activity. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] When a person is in a good mood or positive emotional state, the performance of personal care activities by the person is more effective. The inventors of the present disclosure have recognized that one way to affect a person's emotional state is through the use of different ambient light conditions. It has been recognized that humans respond differently to different colors of light (e.g., different wavelengths of light), and therefore manipulating the ambient light conditions near a person can affect the person's mood. For example, some colors of light energize a person, while other colors of light relax a person. Similarly, some colors of light are known to improve a person's mood, while other colors are known to evoke a sense of sadness in a person.

[0006] In the present disclosure, knowledge of the effect of different lighting conditions on a person's emotional state is used to influence the emotional state of a user of a personal care device. Details of the user's current emotional state are determined along with details of a target emotional state to be achieved. Lighting conditions are then selected to influence the transition from the user's current emotional state to the target / intended emotional state.

[0007] According to a first particular aspect, a computer-implemented method for adjusting lighting conditions is provided, the method comprising the steps of receiving device usage data relating to use of a personal care device by a subject during a use event, estimating a current emotional state of the subject based on the device usage data, receiving an indication of a target emotional state of the subject, determining lighting parameters to be applied to a light source to assist the subject in reaching the target emotional state based on the target emotional state of the subject, and operating the light source to emit light in accordance with the determined lighting parameters.

[0008] The device usage data includes one or more of: i) an indication of a nature of the personal care device being used by the subject; ii) an indication of at least one of the day of the week of the device usage event, the date of the device usage event, the time of the device usage event, the geographic location of the device usage event, the room of the house in which the device usage event occurs, and devices within a defined vicinity of the personal care device during the device usage event; iii) operational parameters of the personal care device during the device usage event; and iv) sensor data obtained using a sensor associated with the personal care device during the device usage event.

[0009] In some embodiments, the sensor data includes data indicative of one or more of: i) physiological parameters associated with the subject's skin or hair, physical parameters associated with the subject's skin or hair, chemical parameters associated with the subject's skin or hair, and optical parameters associated with the subject's skin or hair; ii) operational parameters of the personal care device during the device use event; and iii) interaction parameters indicative of an interaction between the personal care device and the subject during the device use event.

[0010] Estimating the subject's current emotional state, in some embodiments, comprises referencing a first look-up table relating device usage data to emotional states.

[0011] In some embodiments, receiving an indication of the target emotional state of the subject comprises referencing a second lookup table relating the target emotional state to the current emotional state.

[0012] Determining the lighting parameters includes referencing a third lookup table that associates lighting parameters with target emotional states.

[0013] In some embodiments, the method further comprises receiving a first user input indicating an effect of the one or more lighting parameters on the emotional state of the subject, and updating a third lookup table based on the first user input.

[0014] The method further comprises receiving subject-specific data indicative of one or more of the subject's lighting preferences and the subject's personal data, and at least one of the steps of estimating the subject's current emotional state and determining the lighting parameters to be applied is based on the received subject-specific data.

[0015] In some embodiments, the method further comprises receiving a second user input indicative of an emotional state of the subject, and wherein estimating the current emotional state of the subject is further based on the received second user input.

[0016] In some embodiments, the method further comprises determining, based on the target emotional state of the subject, heating parameters to be applied to the heat source to assist the subject in reaching the target emotional state, and operating the heat source to generate heat in accordance with the determined heating parameters.

[0017] According to a second particular aspect, there is provided a computer program product including a non-transitory computer readable medium having computer readable code embodied therein, the computer readable code being configured, when executed by a suitable computer or processor, to cause the computer or processor to perform a method disclosed herein.

[0018] According to a third particular aspect, a system for adjusting lighting conditions is provided, the system comprising a personal care device, a light source, and a processing unit, the processing unit being configured to communicate with the personal care device and the light source, receive device usage data relating to use of the personal care device by a subject during a use event, estimate a current emotional state of the subject based on the device usage data, receive an indication of a target emotional state of the subject, determine lighting parameters to be applied to the light source to assist the subject in reaching the target emotional state based on the target emotional state of the subject, and operate the light source to emit light in accordance with the determined lighting parameters.

[0019] The system, in some embodiments, further includes a heating unit configured to direct heat to the subject, and the processing unit configured to operate the heating unit to generate heat to be directed to the subject based on the target emotional state.

[0020] In some embodiments, the system further includes an imaging unit configured to capture at least one image of at least a portion of the subject, and the processing unit configured to estimate a current emotional state of the subject based on the at least one image.

[0021] The system further includes a user interface configured to receive input from the subject, wherein the processing unit is configured to receive an indication of the target emotional state of the subject via user input provided using the user interface.

[0022] These and other aspects will be apparent from and elucidated with reference to the embodiments described hereinafter.

[0023] Exemplary embodiments will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the following drawings, in which: [Brief description of the drawings]

[0024] [Figure 1]1 is a flow diagram of an example of a method for adjusting lighting conditions. [Diagram 2] 11 is a flow diagram of a further example of a method for adjusting lighting conditions. [Diagram 3] 1 is a schematic diagram of an example of a computer-readable medium in communication with a processor. [Figure 4] 1 is a schematic diagram of an example of a system for adjusting lighting conditions. [Diagram 5] 1 is a schematic diagram of a further example of a system for adjusting lighting conditions; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0025] Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide a mechanism for using light to affect a person's emotional state. More specifically, the emotional state of a user of a personal care device is influenced (e.g., enhanced or otherwise altered) by adjusting parameters of a light source that provides ambient light to the user to effect a transition from the user's current emotional state to a target emotional state.

[0026] Ambient lighting conditions are controlled in a variety of situations For example, the rear housing of a television set may contain Light Emitting Diode (LED) modules that generate backlighting to match or complement the image displayed on the screen.

[0027] Although ambient lighting provided by televisions has been shown to reduce viewer fatigue and improve the realism and depth of experience, ambient lighting is commonly used to affect a person's emotions and, furthermore, affect a person's emotional performance in certain tasks (e.g., performing personal care activities). In a study, six colors (bright red, bright blue, bright yellow, pale red, pale blue, and pale yellow) were manipulated in a simulated research environment to measure their effects on the learning performance, emotions, and heart rate of university students. Results showed that participants rated the situation as relaxing, calming, and enjoyable in the pale color condition, but reading comprehension scores were significantly higher in the bright color condition. Heart rate was significantly affected by hue, increasing in the red and yellow conditions. In addition, results suggested that hue significantly affected participants' emotions, regardless of the degree of whiteness, and blue enhanced participants' feelings of relaxation and calm compared to other colors.

[0028] Based on color psychology, colors in the red region of the color spectrum (called warm colors and including red, orange, and yellow) evoke emotions ranging from feelings of warmth and comfort to feelings of anger and hostility, while colors on the blue side of the spectrum (called cool colors and including blue, purple, and green) are often described as calm, but also evoke feelings of sadness or indifference.

[0029] In the lighting industry, colors that bring a bright and active atmosphere to the environment are often used. Sports games, holidays, and increased awareness towards motivation are just a few examples where color is involved in lighting. In baby products, white is often used because it symbolizes the beginning of something, innocence, purity, safety, and cleanliness, words that are often associated with babies and new life. Therefore, advertisements for baby related products attract customers with the clever use of white, which in turn reminds the viewer of all these words.

[0030] Just as white is thought to symbolize certain feelings, blue is also thought to evoke feelings of calm, sincerity, and trust. Blue lighting affects the human body in a variety of ways. Many findings indicate that the human eye has photoreceptors that are sensitive to blue light, which has an effect on circadian rhythms. For this reason, blue light helps in waking up in the morning and helps a person realign their circadian rhythm when traveling, reducing the effects of jet lag. Blue LED lighting is also used to increase blood flow as the skin is also sensitive to blue, ultimately eliminating pain and promoting healing in the body.

[0031] Green is also considered a calming color, conveying a sense of hope, calm, and healing. Green is the easiest color to see and the most sensitive to for the human eye. Green lighting is sometimes used in operating rooms because it reduces glare and complements the red color of the hemoglobin in blood, creating an easier viewing environment for the surgeon. Green light also enhances learning and concentration, and is therefore sometimes used in classrooms.

[0032] Yellow is considered a warm color and evokes a feeling of happiness or joy, and improves muscle energy and mental activity. Yellow is also effective at attracting attention. In hospitals, the warm tones of yellow lighting are used to create a relaxing, comfortable atmosphere, which helps patients fall asleep at night.

[0033] Orange is a welcoming color and creates a friendly atmosphere. Orange is sometimes associated with friendship, endurance, enthusiasm, and creativity. Orange lighting is considered suitable for bringing newborn babies into the home to make them feel at home, relaxed, welcomed, and comfortable, especially since red, orange, and yellow are some of the first colors that human babies can see. Orange lighting also stimulates the appetite of young people, which is why orange is associated with healthy foods. Orange also increases the flow of oxygen to the brain, thus triggering increased mental activity.

[0034] Therefore, different colors, and in particular different colored lights, affect changes in a person's mood, sensations, behavior, or emotional state. Similarly, different colors or different colored lights affect how a person performs a particular activity. These principles are used in the present disclosure to affect a person's emotional state while performing a personal care activity, so that the user has a positive experience while using the personal care device, and more importantly, so that the user performs the personal care activity in the best (e.g., most effective) way.

[0035] According to a first aspect, the present invention relates to a method. Referring to the drawings, FIG. 1 is a flow chart of an example of a method 100. The method 100 includes a computer-implemented method for adjusting lighting conditions. The method 100 includes, in step 102, receiving device usage data related to a subject's use of a personal care device during a usage event. According to the present disclosure, a personal care device includes any device used to perform a personal care activity. For example, a personal care device includes, but is not limited to, a shaving device, a hair-cutting device, and a hair removal device, an intense pulsed laser (IPL) device, a skin treatment device, an electric toothbrush, an interactive mirror, a weighing scale, and the like. In the context of the present disclosure, the term "usage event" is intended to refer to an event or period during which a personal care device is used, for example, to perform a treatment or obtain a measurement. The term "usage event" is also referred to as a "session" or a "treatment session". For example, the period from when a subject switches on a shaving device to when the subject switches off the shaving device after shaving is considered to be a usage event.

[0036] At step 104, the method 100 includes estimating a current emotional state of the subject based on the device usage data. Thus, the device usage data is used to estimate how a user of the personal care device (e.g., the subject) is feeling.

[0037] During the usage event, device usage data is received regarding the manner in which the personal care device is used. The device usage data includes information regarding the use of the personal care device, and in some embodiments includes one or more of the types of data discussed below.

[0038] In one example, the device usage data includes an indication of the nature of the personal care device being used by the subject. For example, the device usage data includes a tag or identifier that can determine the type of device being used. In some examples, the personal care device itself generates a signal that includes data used to identify the personal care device. In other examples, for example, if a camera (e.g., a smartphone camera or an interactive mirror camera) is available, an image of the personal care device is captured and used to determine the nature of the personal care device. In other examples, the subject (e.g., a user of the personal care device) provides an indication of the nature of the personal care device being used via user input. The type of personal care device being used during a personal care activity provides insight into the subject's emotional state, as some personal care devices are associated with more soothing or relaxing activities (e.g., hair removal using an IPL device), while other personal care devices are associated with less relaxing activities (e.g., shaving).

[0039] In another example, the device usage data includes at least one indication of the day of the device usage event, the date of the device usage event, the time of the device usage event, the geographic location of the device usage event, the room in the house where the device usage event occurs, and the device within a defined vicinity of the personal care device during the device usage event. The day of the week and / or the date of the device usage event provide insight into how the subject relaxes. For example, a subject who performs a personal care activity on a weekend is more relaxed than a subject who performs a personal care activity on a weekday when they have to work. Similarly, the time of the device usage event is used to determine whether the subject feels hectic (e.g., if the personal care activity is performed before work in the morning) or more relaxed (e.g., if the personal care activity is performed at night before going to bed). The geographic location where the device usage event occurs provides insight into the subject's emotional state. A user who performs a personal care activity at home is more likely to be relaxed than a user who performs a personal care activity, for example, in a vehicle on the way to work. Similarly, a personal care activity performed in a bathroom environment in the subject's home is more relaxing than a personal care activity performed in the kitchen, perhaps while performing some other activity. If the personal care device is determined to be used near the interactive mirror, it is determined that the subject is relaxed and performing the personal care activity in a controlled manner, but if the personal care device is determined not to be near (e.g., within a defined vicinity of) another device (e.g., another personal care device), it is assumed that the subject is less relaxed. To aid in this determination, the multiple personal care devices interact with each other or with a central control unit, for example to enable their relative positions or relative separation to be determined.

[0040] In another example, the device usage data includes operational parameters of the personal care device during the device usage event. For example, if it is determined that the shaving device is set to the maximum speed during the device usage event, it is assumed that the subject is in a hurry to perform the personal care activity and therefore the subject is somewhat stressed. However, a subject shaving with a shaving device set to a slower speed is considered to be more relaxed. Other operational parameters of the personal care device, such as the wavelength setting of the light-emitting device and the heat setting of the heating device, are further used to estimate the emotional state of the subject.

[0041] In another example, the device usage data includes sensor data acquired using a sensor associated with the personal care device during the device usage event. Data from one or more sources is combined to form the sensor data and / or device usage data. In some embodiments, the sensor data includes data indicative of a physiological parameter associated with the subject's skin or hair, such as dryness of the subject's skin or hair. Sweat on the surface of the subject's skin, for example, suggests that the subject is stressed. The sensor data includes data indicative of a physical parameter associated with the subject's skin or hair, such as a temperature or color of the skin or hair. For example, redness of the skin suggests a stressed or angry emotional state of the subject. The sensor data includes data indicative of a chemical parameter associated with the subject's skin or hair. For example, a particular chemical present in the hair or skin indicates a particular emotional state of the subject. In another example, the sensor data includes data indicative of an optical parameter associated with the subject's skin or hair, such as an appearance of the skin or hair, that can provide an indication of the subject's emotional state.

[0042] The sensor data, in some embodiments, includes data indicative of operational parameters of the personal care device during the device use event. As discussed above, operational parameters of the personal care device, such as temperature or speed settings, provide an indication of the subject's emotional state. While such settings are determined by the device itself, in some embodiments, the operational parameters are determined using one or more sensors associated with the personal care device.

[0043] In some embodiments, the sensor data includes data indicative of an interaction parameter indicative of an interaction between the personal care device and the subject during a device use event. For example, a pressure sensor associated with a hair-cutting device is used to determine the pressure applied by the hair-cutting device to the subject's skin. Similarly, an inertial measurement unit (IMU) is used to determine the speed at which a device (e.g., a shaving device or an electric toothbrush) is moved during a personal care activity, with a personal care device that is moved rapidly over the course of the personal care activity being associated with a more stressed or angry user than a user that moves the personal care device slowly. In another example, a sensor associated with a personal care device includes a camera or microphone. Such a sensor records images or sounds during a device use event, and processing of the images or sounds is used to estimate the subject's emotional state. The sensors discussed above generate data indicative of an interaction between the personal care device and the subject during a device use event.

[0044] The device usage data acquired during the device usage event is provided to a processing unit configured to estimate the subject's emotional state. In some examples, estimating the subject's current emotional state includes referencing a first lookup table that associates the device usage data with the emotional state. For example, any of the types of device usage data discussed above are associated with one or more emotional states, and these associations are stored in a first lookup table or database. The device usage data is compared to various thresholds (e.g., stored in a database or lookup table, such as the first lookup table) to determine the likely emotional state of the subject based on the received device usage data. One or more algorithms are used to combine different types of device usage data to improve the estimation of the subject's emotional state. For example, a subject using a shaving device set at a relatively slow setting and moving the shaving device slowly over his or her face to perform a shaving event in the bathroom of his or her home on a Sunday evening is likely to be in a very calm and relaxed state. Conversely, a subject using a shaving device set at a high speed setting and moving the shaving device rapidly across their face during a shaving event performed in their kitchen on a Monday morning is likely to be in a stressed emotional state.

[0045] The method 100 includes receiving an indication of a target emotional state of the subject at step 106. The subject's current emotional state may be considered to be the subject's initial starting emotional state (e.g., at the beginning of the device use event), while the target emotional state may be considered to be the emotional state the subject is intended to reach. In some examples, the target emotional state is the same as the current emotional state. For example, if the subject is currently estimated to be happy, it is intended that the subject remain happy. In some examples, the indication of the target emotional state of the subject is received via a user input provided by the subject. For example, the subject may indicate via a user interface of a smartphone or interactive mirror that they would like to feel more relaxed or more energized.

[0046] In some examples, receiving an indication of the target emotional state of the subject includes referencing a second lookup table that associates the target emotional state with a current emotional state. For example, if the subject does not provide an indication of the intended target emotional state, the second lookup table provides a standard or predefined association between the current emotional state and the target emotional state. This assumes, for example, that a subject who is feeling down or stressed is likely to want to feel better or less stressed. In other examples, the target emotional state is determined using a previously indicated target emotional state for the subject. For example, the subject may have previously indicated that he generally likes to feel relaxed, and therefore this is used as the default location for the target emotional state of the subject. In some embodiments, the target emotional state of a group of people is used to determine the target emotional state of the subject. For example, an analysis of the target emotional states of a group of people with similar attributes to the subject (e.g., having a profile that matches or is similar to the subject's profile) is performed, and the target emotional states of those people are used to determine the target emotional state of the subject. In one example, it is assumed that first thing in the morning, a certain demographic of people want to be in a similar emotional state.

[0047] At step 108, the method 100 includes determining, based on the target emotional state of the subject, lighting parameters to be applied to the light source to assist the subject in reaching the target emotional state. The lighting parameters include parameters (e.g., operational parameters) or settings of the light source that control aspects of the light emitted by the light source. Thus, in some embodiments, the lighting parameters include at least one of the wavelength of the light to be emitted, the warmth of the light to be emitted, and the intensity of the light to be emitted. In other examples, the lighting parameters include the power or intensity of the light, the frequency of the light, and / or the color of the light (e.g., using one or more filters). In other examples, other lighting parameters are applied.

[0048] The selection of the lighting parameters to be applied to the light source is made with the intention of the subject reaching a target emotional state. For example, if the subject is currently in a depressed or sad emotional state and the target emotional state is determined to be a happy emotional state, the lighting parameters to be applied to the light source are determined to be those that cause the light source to emit light associated with feelings of happiness and joy, such as yellow light. In some embodiments, determining the lighting parameters includes referencing a third lookup table that associates lighting parameters with the target emotional states. For example, as noted in the example above, the target emotional state of happiness is associated in the lookup table with particular lighting parameters (e.g., a particular wavelength setting associated with yellow light) that, when applied, causes the light source to emit yellow light.

[0049] As mentioned above, the target emotional state in some instances is the same as the current emotional state. For example, the subject is already in a positive and happy mood, and the target emotional state is also a happy emotional state. In such instances, there is no need to change the emotional state of the subject, and so the lighting parameters to be applied to the light source are the lighting parameters currently applied to the light source, or parameters that cause the light to be emitted that maintains the current emotional state of the subject.

[0050] In some embodiments, the determination of the lighting parameters to be applied to the light source is further based on the current emotional state of the subject. Thus, instead of basing the determination of the lighting parameters only on the target emotional state, the current emotional state of the subject is also taken into account. In such an example, there are certain lighting parameters that are known to be particularly effective in transitioning a user between certain current and target emotional states. The associations between certain current and target emotional states, and the effective lighting parameters for enabling transitions between those emotional states, are stored in one or more lookup tables, such as a third lookup table.

[0051] The method 100 comprises, in step 110, operating the light source to emit light according to the determined lighting parameters. For example, the determined lighting parameters are applied to the light source. This causes the light source to emit light that helps the subject reach a target emotional state. In some embodiments, operating the light source or applying the determined lighting parameters to the light source is performed such that the transition from the light currently emitted by the light source to the light emitted according to the determined lighting parameters is smooth or gradual. A change in lighting conditions in a slow and gradual manner may be less obvious or noticeable to the subject or the subject may be less aware of the intended change that is about to occur in his or her emotional state.

[0052] Applying lighting parameters to the light source to make it emit light helps to change the emotional state of the subject. This not only helps improve a person's mood, but also has a positive impact on the way the subject uses the personal care device to perform personal care activities. For example, a treatment using an Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) device (e.g., hair removal) should be performed slowly and carefully, and the device should be moved incrementally over the area of ​​the body to be treated. If the device is moved too quickly, spots of skin will be missed and the hair will not be effectively removed. Therefore, it is desirable for the subject using the IPL device to be in a calm and relaxed emotional state. Therefore, the method 100 uses ambient lighting conditions to help create an environment that helps relax the subject, thereby making it more likely that the subject will perform the treatment slowly and effectively. This result not only ensures that the treatment is performed as intended, but also has benefits in terms of safety. For example, operating a personal care device while in an upset or angry emotional state can lead to misuse of the device and ultimately to the occurrence of an accident. Similarly, using a personal care device while in an angry emotional state can lead to damage to the personal care device (e.g., if the device is not used properly or according to its intended operating conditions). A user in a more calm emotional state is more likely to use the personal care device in an intended manner that is less likely to result in damage to the device.

[0053] FIG. 2 is a flow diagram of a further example of a method 200 including a computer-implemented method for adjusting lighting conditions. The method 200 comprises one or more steps of the method 100 discussed above. In step 202, the method 200 further comprises receiving subject-specific data indicative of one or more of the subject's lighting preferences and / or the subject's personal data. The subject-specific data includes data about the subject providing an indication of the subject's preferences with respect to lighting conditions (e.g., an indication of a particular color of light having a particular effect on the subject's emotional state). The subject-specific data is provided by the subject, for example, via a user interface. In some examples, a user profile stores subject-specific data and / or preferences associated with a particular subject and is used to obtain the subject-specific data.

[0054] The step of estimating the subject's current emotional state (step 104) and / or the step of determining the lighting parameters to be applied (step 108) is based on the received subject-specific data, for example the subject-specific data comprising an indication of the subject's current emotional state or an indication of the subject's preferred lighting conditions.

[0055] In step 204, the method 200 further comprises receiving a first user input indicating the effect of one or more lighting parameters on the emotional state of the subject. For example, the subject provides a first user input indicating that a particular lighting parameter (e.g., a particular light color) makes the subject feel angry or sad. The input provided by the subject is used to update the lookup table. For example, the method 200 further comprises, in step 206, updating a third lookup table based on the first user input. In this way, the lookup tables referenced during the methods 100, 200 are personalized for different subjects, reducing the chance that applying a particular lighting parameter to a subject has an undesirable effect (e.g., making the subject sad when the target emotional state is happy).

[0056] The method 200 further comprises receiving, at step 208, a second user input indicative of the subject's emotional state. For example, the subject provides an indication by selecting from a list of emotional states displayed on a screen of a smartphone or an interactive mirror. The subject's input (i.e., the second user input) is used in combination with the device usage data to determine the subject's current emotional state. Thus, the step of estimating the subject's current emotional state (step 104) is further based on the received second user input.

[0057] In addition to providing the subject with specific lighting conditions to produce a target emotional state, in one embodiment, the application of heat is also used to help reach the target emotional state. Thus, in some embodiments, the personal care device or another device may comprise a heat generating means, a heat emitting means, configured to provide heat to the subject to help the subject reach the target emotional state. Thus, in some embodiments, the method 200 may further comprise, in step 210, a step of determining, based on the target emotional state of the subject, heating parameters to be applied to the heat source to help the subject reach the target emotional state. In some embodiments, the step of determining the heating parameters (step 210) is further based on the current emotional state of the subject. In one example, if the target emotional state of the subject is determined to be cozy, the method 200 determines, in step 210, that the heat source applies heat at a relatively high temperature, thereby warming the subject and helping the subject reach the target emotional state. Thus, in step 212, the method 200 further comprises a step of operating the heat source to generate heat according to the determined heating parameters. The heat is provided in the form of hot air and / or radiation (e.g., infrared light). In some embodiments, the light source comprises an infrared light source and the illumination parameters comprise parameters that cause infrared radiation to be emitted.

[0058] The steps of the methods 100, 200 discussed above are performed using one or more processors or processing units. Such processors form part of devices such as personal care devices, smartphones, smart watches, tablet computers, laptop computers, interactive mirrors, etc. In some embodiments, the processing is performed remotely from the subject, for example using a cloud computing environment. Thus, the processors form part of, for example, a remotely located server.

[0059] According to a second aspect, the present invention relates to a computer program product. Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of an example of a processor 302 in communication with a computer readable medium 304. According to one embodiment, the computer program product includes a non-transitory computer readable medium 304 having computer readable code embodied therein, which, when executed by a suitable computer or processor 302, is configured to cause the computer or processor to perform the steps of the methods 100, 200 disclosed herein.

[0060] According to a third aspect, the present invention relates to a system. Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of an example of a system 400, which may be a system for adjusting lighting conditions. The system 400 includes a processing unit 402, a personal care device 404, and a light source 406. The processing unit 402 is configured to communicate with the personal care device 404 and the light source 406 and to perform one or more steps of the methods 100, 200 discussed herein. In particular, the processing unit 402 is configured to receive device usage data regarding the use of the personal care device by a subject during a usage event, estimate a current emotional state of the subject based on the device usage data, receive an indication of a target emotional state of the subject, determine lighting parameters to be applied to the light source to help the subject reach the target emotional state based on the target emotional state of the subject, and operate the light source to emit light according to the determined lighting parameters. The components of the system 400 are located in a single device or are located remotely from each other in two or more devices.

[0061] 5 is a schematic diagram of a further example of a system 500, such as a system for adjusting lighting conditions. The system 500 includes the components of the system 400 disclosed above. The system 500 further includes a heat generating unit 502 configured to direct heat to the subject. The heat generating unit 502 may, for example, form part of the personal care device 404 or may include a separate component remote from the personal care device. The processing unit 402 is configured to operate the heat generating unit 502 to generate heat to be directed to the subject based on the target emotional state. As discussed above, the heat generating unit 502 is configured to generate and direct high temperature heat to the subject when the target emotional state of the subject is cozy or relaxed.

[0062] The system 500 further includes an imaging unit 504 configured to capture at least one image of at least a portion of the subject. The imaging unit 504 includes, for example, a camera of a smartphone or tablet computer, or a camera of an interactive mirror. The imaging unit 504 captures a single image or multiple images, such as a stream of images forming a video. The processing unit 402 is configured to estimate a current emotional state of the subject based on the at least one image. For example, a facial expression analysis is performed to determine the mood or emotional state of the subject based on the subject's facial expression. In another example, the determination of the subject's current emotional state is determined by analyzing image data available in the captured image, such as the color of the subject's skin (e.g., redness of the subject's face suggests anger).

[0063] In some embodiments, the system 500 includes a microphone (not shown) that records sound data associated with the subject. The recorded sound data is used alone or in conjunction with images captured by the imaging unit 504 to help determine the subject's current emotional state.

[0064] The system 500 further includes a user interface 506 configured to receive input from the subject. The user interface 506 includes one or more switches, one or more buttons, a keypad, a keyboard, a mouse, a mouse wheel, a touch screen or an application (e.g., on a tablet or smartphone), or any other user interface or combination of user interfaces suitable for allowing the subject to provide user input. The user interface 506 is used by the subject to indicate a current emotional state and / or a target emotional state together with other data used, for example, to update one or more of the look-up tables. The processing unit 402 is configured to receive an indication of the target emotional state of the subject via the user input provided using the user interface 506.

[0065] The embodiments disclosed herein provide a mechanism by which the mood or emotional state of a subject is influenced through the use of ambient light. Based on an estimation of the subject's current emotional state while performing a personal care activity and a determination of a target emotional state the subject should or would like to reach, appropriate lighting conditions are determined and lighting parameters are applied to create the desired lighting conditions. By changing or improving the subject's mood or emotional state, the subject may perform the personal care activity at a higher level, more effectively, and / or more safely. Moreover, by improving the way the subject uses a personal care device (e.g., by creating a more peaceful environment for using the device), the personal care device is more likely to last longer and is less likely to be damaged. The processor 302, 402 includes one or more processors, processing units, multi-core processors, or modules configured or programmed to control the system 400, 500 in the manner described herein. In certain implementations, the processor 302, 402 includes multiple software and / or hardware modules, each configured to or for performing individual steps or multiple steps of the methods described herein.

[0066] The term "module" as used herein is intended to include a hardware component, such as a processor or a component of a processor configured to perform a particular function, or a software component, such as a set of instruction data that has a particular function when executed by a processor.

[0067] It will be understood that the embodiments of the present invention also apply to a computer program, in particular a computer program on or in a carrier, arranged to put the invention into practice. The program may be in the form of object code, such as source code, object code, code intermediate source and partially compiled form, or in any other form suitable for use in implementing the method according to the embodiments of the present invention. It will also be understood that such a program may have different architectural designs. For example, the program code implementing the functions of the method or system according to the present invention may be subdivided into one or more subroutines. Many different ways of distributing functionality among these subroutines will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The subroutines may be stored together in one executable file to form a self-contained program. For example, such an executable file comprises 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 are stored in at least one external library file and are statically or dynamically linked with the main program, for example at run-time. The main program comprises at least one call to at least one of the subroutines. The subroutines also comprise function calls to each other. One embodiment of a computer program product includes computer-executable instructions corresponding to each process step of at least one of the methods described herein, the instructions being subdivided into subroutines and / or stored in one or more statically or dynamically linked files. Another embodiment of a computer program product includes computer-executable instructions corresponding to each means of at least one of the systems and / or products described herein, the instructions being subdivided into subroutines and / or stored in one or more statically or dynamically linked files.

[0068] The carrier of a computer program is any entity or device capable of carrying the program. For example, the carrier comprises a data storage such as a ROM, e.g. a CD ROM or a semiconductor ROM, or a magnetic recording medium, e.g. a hard disk. Furthermore, the carrier is a transmissible carrier such as an electric or optical signal conveyed via an electrical or optical cable or by radio 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, the integrated circuit being adapted to perform or used for the performance of the relevant method.

[0069] Modifications to the disclosed embodiments can be understood and effected by those skilled in the art from a study of the drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims, in practicing the principles and techniques described herein. In the claims, the words "comprise, include, have" do not exclude other elements or steps, and singular elements do not exclude a plurality. A single processor or other unit performs the functions of several items recited in the claims. The mere fact that certain means are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these means cannot be used to advantage. A computer program may be stored or distributed on a suitable medium, such as an optical storage medium or a solid medium, provided 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 telecommunication systems. Any reference signs in the claims should not be interpreted as limiting the scope.

Claims

1. 1. A computer-implemented method for adjusting lighting conditions, the method comprising: receiving device usage data regarding use of a personal care device used to perform a personal care activity by a subject during a use event, said device usage data comprising: i) an indication of the nature of the personal care device being used by the subject; and ii) at least one indication of the day of the device usage event, the date of the device usage event, the time of the device usage event, the geographic location of the device usage event, the room of the house in which the device usage event occurs, and devices within a defined vicinity of the personal care device during the device usage event; iii) operational parameters of the personal care device during the device usage event; and iv) sensor data acquired using a sensor associated with the personal care device during the device use event; and and estimating a current emotional state of the subject based on the device usage data; receiving an indication of a target emotional state of the subject; determining, based on the target emotional state of the subject, lighting parameters to be applied to a light source to assist the subject in reaching the target emotional state; operating a light source to emit light in accordance with the determined illumination parameters; 13. A computer-implemented method comprising:

2. The sensor data is i) physiological parameters associated with the subject's skin or hair, physical parameters associated with the subject's skin or hair, chemical parameters associated with the subject's skin or hair, and optical parameters associated with the subject's skin or hair; ii) operational parameters of the personal care device during the device usage event; and iii) interaction parameters indicative of an interaction between the personal care device and the subject during the device use event; and The computer-implemented method of claim 1 , further comprising data indicative of one or more of:

3. The computer-implemented method of claim 1 or 2, wherein estimating the current emotional state of the subject comprises referencing a first look-up table that associates device usage data with emotional states.

4. 4. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein receiving an indication of the target emotional state of the subject comprises referencing a second look-up table relating target emotional states to current emotional states.

5. 5. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein determining the lighting parameters comprises referencing a third look-up table relating lighting parameters to target emotional states.

6. receiving a first user input indicative of an effect of one or more lighting parameters on the emotional state of the subject; updating the third lookup table based on the user input indicating an effect of one or more lighting parameters on the emotional state of the subject; The computer-implemented method of claim 5 further comprising:

7. receiving subject specific data indicative of one or more of the subject's lighting preferences and personal data of the subject; 7. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein at least one of the steps of estimating the current emotional state of the subject and determining lighting parameters to be applied is based on received subject-specific data.

8. receiving a user input indicative of an emotional state of the subject; 8. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein estimating the current emotional state of the subject is further based on the received user input indicative of the subject's emotional state.

9. determining, based on the target emotional state of the subject, heating parameters to be applied to a heat source to assist the subject in reaching the target emotional state; operating a heat source to generate heat in accordance with the determined heating parameters; The computer-implemented method of claim 1 , further comprising:

10. 10. A computer program comprising a non-transitory computer readable medium, the non-transitory computer readable medium having computer readable code embodied therein, the computer readable code being configured, when executed by a suitable computer or processor, to cause the computer or processor to perform the computer-implemented method of any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. 1. A system for adjusting lighting conditions, the system comprising: a personal care device used to perform a personal care activity; A light source; a processing unit, The processing unit comprises: in communication with the personal care device and the light source; receiving device usage data regarding use of a personal care device by a subject during a use event, said device usage data comprising: i) an indication of the nature of the personal care device being used by the subject; and ii) at least one indication of the day of the device usage event, the date of the device usage event, the time of the device usage event, the geographic location of the device usage event, the room of the house in which the device usage event occurs, and devices within a defined vicinity of the personal care device during the device usage event; iii) operational parameters of the personal care device during the device usage event; and iv) sensor data acquired using a sensor associated with the personal care device during the device use event; and [0033] Estimating a current emotional state of the subject based on the device usage data; receiving an indication of a target emotional state of the subject; determining lighting parameters to be applied to the light source based on the target emotional state of the subject to assist the subject in reaching the target emotional state; and operating the light source to emit light according to the determined illumination parameters.

12. further comprising a heating unit for directing heat to the subject; The processing unit comprises: The system of claim 11 , further comprising: operating the heat generating unit to generate heat to be directed at the subject based on the target emotional state.

13. an imaging unit for capturing at least one image of at least a portion of the subject; The processing unit comprises: The system of claim 11 or 12, further comprising: estimating a current emotional state of the subject based on the at least one image.

14. further comprising a user interface for receiving input from the subject; The processing unit comprises:

14. The system of claim 11, further comprising: receiving an indication of the target emotional state of the subject via user input provided using the user interface.

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