Automated Nail Service System

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to an automated system for nail services, including blotting, nail polish removal, nail polish storage, and display, etc. In some embodiments, the system works in conjunction with or is part of a robotic device for automatically applying or removing nail polish from natural or artificial fingernails or toenails.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 442,559, filed February 1, 2023, the entirety of which is incorporated herein.

[0002] The present disclosure relates to automated services, and more particularly to systems and methods for automated treatment of a user's body part, such as a user's hand or foot. [Background technology]

[0003] Traditionally, nail painting involves dipping a brush into a bottle of nail polish and using a brush with flexible bristles that is used to paint natural or artificial nails. Applying a smooth layer of nail polish to the nail while staying within the nail's boundaries requires a high degree of precision and accuracy on the part of the human. The high degree of precision and accuracy required has posed challenges to mechanizing nail painting. Traditional robotic approaches have not been able to replicate the precise, smooth layer of nail polish achievable by humans. Additionally, achieving a fully mechanized system that includes one or more of the following tasks has not been feasible: blotting and removing stains, storing and placing nail polish, and removing polish. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The present disclosure relates to a robotic device and method for automatically applying nail polish to natural or artificial fingernails or toenails. In some embodiments, the robot uses artificial intelligence (AI) to identify and paint the nails. The robot uses a depth sensor and computer vision to plan the movement of the end effector. In one embodiment, the robot uses AI, machine learning techniques such as deep reinforcement learning, and other algorithms and calculations to plan the path. The AI ​​controller may be trained using an AI library. In conjunction with the robotic device, there may be one or more additional nail services, including blotting the polish, storing the polish for the device, and removing the polish from the nail.

[0005] In one embodiment, the automated blotter may include a blotting function and may include a blotting surface or test area designed to receive the nail polish discharged from the robotic dispenser.

[0006] In one embodiment, the automated blotter may include a platform configured to dispense nail polish and positioned adjacent to a dispenser, such as a robotic dispenser. The automated blotter may have an automated blotting surface positioned on the platform, the blotting surface designed to receive the discharge of nail polish dispensed from the robotic dispenser. This may allow the robotic dispenser to wipe the polish off the tip of the dispenser, such as before depositing it on a nail.

[0007] In one embodiment, the automated blotter may include a movable blotting surface. For example, the blotting surface may be rotatable about a central axis. The surface may be configured to collect nail polish dispensed thereon. A scraper adjacent to the blotting surface may remove nail polish on the blotting surface (e.g., by scraping the polish from the surface). A waste channel adjacent to the scraper may collect the nail polish scraped by the scraper and direct the scraped nail polish to a waste collection area.

[0008] In one embodiment, an automated method for cleaning a blotting surface of an automated blotter may include identifying when an area of ​​the blotting surface contains nail polish and engaging a cleaning tool with the area of ​​the blotting surface to remove the nail polish.

[0009] The nail service may also include nail polish removal. In one embodiment, the nail polish removal system may include a stationary base and a nail polish removal container (or pot) disposed within the stationary base, the nail polish removal container configured to include components to assist in nail polish removal, and a rotating container holder (or rotating pot holder) rotatably disposed on the stationary base to secure the nail polish removal container to the stationary base and to rotate the nail polish removal container during use.

[0010] The nail service may further include a nail polish storage container for storing the nail polish before dispensing it onto the nails. In one embodiment, the nail polish storage container is a cartridge that may include a reservoir or chamber for holding the nail polish, a nozzle or tip connected to the reservoir for dispensing the nail polish, a removable sealing cap for enclosing the nozzle or tip, and an electronic memory device.

[0011] In one embodiment, the cartridge may include a body having a first end, a second end, and a chamber formed between the first end and the second end for containing nail polish; a tip coupled to the first end of the body and configured to direct the flow of nail polish onto the surface of the nail; a rear seal coupled to the second end of the body to provide a seal at the second end; and a removable sealing cap having an open end and a closed end, the removable sealing cap covering the tip to seal the tip of the cartridge, the sealing cap having one or more support pins adjacent the open end.

[0012] The nail service may include a mechanism for storing and / or displaying the cartridges before or during dispensing of nail polish onto the nails. In one embodiment, the cartridge dispenser may include a display area for displaying the cartridges, an inclined feed rail adjacent to the display area for holding the cartridges arranged along the inclined feed rail, each cartridge having a sealing cap, a pair of vertical guide slots coupled to the feed rail for controlling the direction and path of the cartridges as they fall from the feed rail into the display area, the sealing cap of each cartridge resting on the vertical guide slot to hold the cartridges on the inclined feed rail, and a discard ramp located below the display area for collecting sealing caps removed from the cartridges, wherein when a cartridge is pulled out of the display area, the sealing cap of the cartridge rotates away from the display area and falls onto the discard ramp. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0013] This patent or application contains at least one drawing executed in color. Copies of this patent or patent application publication with color drawing(s) will be provided by the Office upon request and payment of the necessary fee.

[0014] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram of a robotic device according to one embodiment. [Figure 2A] 2A-2C are different views of the robotic device of FIG. 1; [Figure 2B] 2A-2C are different views of the robotic device of FIG. 1; [Figure 3A] FIG. 1 is a diagram of an automated blotter according to one embodiment. [Figure 3B] FIG. 1 is a diagram of an automated blotter according to one embodiment. [Figure 3C] FIG. 1 is a diagram of an automated blotter according to one embodiment. [Figure 3D] FIG. 1 is a diagram of an automated blotter according to one embodiment. [Figure 4A] 1 is a diagram of an automatic nail polish remover system according to one embodiment. [Figure 4B] 1 is a diagram of an automatic nail polish remover system according to one embodiment. [Figure 5A] 1 is a diagram of a nail polish removal device container according to one embodiment. [Figure 5B] 1 is a diagram of a nail polish removal device container according to one embodiment. [Figure 6A] 1 is a diagram of a cartridge according to one embodiment. [Figure 6B] 1 is a diagram of a cartridge according to one embodiment. [Figure 6C] 1 is a diagram of a cartridge according to one embodiment. [Figure 6D] 1 is a diagram of a cartridge according to one embodiment. [Figure 7A] 1 is a diagram of a cartridge dispenser according to one embodiment. [Figure 7B] 1 is a diagram of a cartridge dispenser according to one embodiment. [Figure 7C] 1 is a diagram of a cartridge dispenser according to one embodiment.

[0015] The figures depict various embodiments for purposes of illustration only. Those skilled in the art will readily recognize from the following description that alternative embodiments of the structures and methods described herein may be practiced without departing from the principles set forth herein. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0016] Embodiments are described below, but it should be expressly noted that the present subject matter is not limited to the embodiments, but rather the intention is to include variations, modifications, and equivalents that are obvious to those skilled in the art.

[0017] overview The present disclosure relates to automated services or treatments of a user's body parts, such as hands or feet. Some embodiments relate to services related to a user's nails (e.g., fingernails and / or toenails). Some embodiments include services related to automated dispensing of nail polish onto nails, automated removal of nail polish, automated preparation / priming and blotting of nail cartridges to prepare the nails for painting or cleaning after painting, or other activities related to nails. In one example, the present disclosure relates to a robotic device for automated nail polish application, such as nail polish application or removal.

[0018] In some embodiments, the system includes various components, or subsystems, such as an automatic blotter, a nail polish remover system, a cartridge, and a cartridge dispenser, each of which is described in more detail below.

[0019] Any or all of the subsystems may be used as stand-alone systems or as subcomponents within another system. For example, if the system is an automated hand or nail treatment system, the subsystems may be subcomponents of the larger system. In embodiments where the system is a robotic device for applying nail polish or other materials to nails or removing nail polish or other materials, the subsystems may be components of the robotic device. In this example, one or more subsystems may be partially or completely housed within the housing of the robotic device. Thus, a user may place their hand within or on a portion of the housing to automatically receive a nail treatment or service from the robotic device, including using the subsystem to provide the service. Some subsystems may be separate from or external to the housing of the robotic device and may be used before a user places their hand within the robotic device for a nail treatment service.

[0020] Throughout this disclosure, dispensing nail polish or other material treatments or treating a user's nails (fingernails or toenails) is used as an illustrative example. However, other types of services are possible, including providing artificial nails, providing nail decals or nail patterns / nail art, providing gel or powder nail services, UV curing nail polish, drying nails, shaping nails or cuticles, polishing nails, washing or soaking feet or hands, massaging a user's hands or feet, applying paraffin wax to hands, feet, arms, etc., and dispensing henna patterns onto hands, arms, or other body parts, among other treatments. Additionally, a robotic device for automated dispensing of treatments (e.g., a nail painting robot) is used throughout as an example, although the system may take other forms. To illustrate examples of robotic devices, schematic diagrams of possible robotic devices and methods are provided below for use with the subsystems described in subsequent sections of this summary. However, the robotic devices and methods may take other forms or include different components or steps than those provided in the summary.

[0021] System Overview As shown in FIGS. 1, 2A, and 2B, system 100 includes a robotic device 110, according to some embodiments. Components of the robotic device may include an end effector 102, which may be a dispenser for dispensing nail polish or other material from a cartridge onto a user's nails at a controlled speed. A motor 106 moves the end effector, or dispenser, around the device to deposit the nail polish. The dispenser may move, or slide, along one or more tracks or rails or may otherwise translate to move in at least X, Y, and Z directions (side-to-side, front-to-back, up-to-down) to allow coverage of the entire surface of each nail. Other mechanisms for dispenser movement that do not require tracks or require fewer tracks may also be used. In some embodiments, the robot uses artificial intelligence (AI) to identify and paint nails. In such embodiments, the robot may use depth sensors and computer vision to plan the device's movements to dispense nail polish or perform other services. In one embodiment, the robot uses AI, machine learning such as deep reinforcement learning, and other algorithms and calculations to plan its path. The AI ​​controller may be trained using OpenAI's Gym or DeepMind's TRFL library.

[0022] One or more sensors, such as a camera, LIDAR, laser triangulation, time-of-flight sensor, pressure, or contact sensor, may obtain input used to control the operation of the device. As shown in FIG. 1 , a sensor 108 may be located at a top corner of the device and pointed toward a hand rest (or designated hand placement area) 112 and the end effector tip to acquire images. In one embodiment, the sensor is used to identify the position of a user's hand or foot to ensure that the user's hand or foot is properly placed in the designated area. In one embodiment, the sensor identifies the nail based on machine learning, for example, using training data that has identified nails from many different users. Once the nail is identified, input from the sensor is used by the robot to, among other things, determine the depth and location of the user's nail to manipulate the robot's movements and determine whether it is safe for the robot to continue operating.

[0023] In some embodiments, the robot uses sensors to create a representation of the user's nail location. The representation may be created by a display module in software controlling the robot. The software and / or processor may be stored / located within or near the robot, or may be located remotely from the robot, e.g., across the room, or remotely using cloud computing. In one embodiment, the robot uses a depth-sensing camera that uses binocular vision and / or structured light for depth detection and creates a representation in 3D spatial coordinates. In one embodiment, the robot uses a camera and software, e.g., machine learning or artificial intelligence software, to identify the nail and determine which portion of the camera frame corresponds to the area to be painted. An AI embodiment for identifying nails may be a convolutional neural network based on an image segmentation model from Facebook's Detectron or TensorFlow's Zoo model, and may be trained with human-labeled images.

[0024] The user's representation of the nails may be input to a motion planner. The motion planner is a software component that controls the robot's motion, e.g., the motion of the motion platform, end effector, and / or cartridge. In some embodiments, the motion planner uses a combination of deep reinforcement learning, mathematical transformations, computer vision, and AI to plan the path the motion platform must take to achieve the goal of painting the nails. The motion planner is a real-time component, meaning it may adjust the planned path as it performs operations and senses the environment. The motion planner may use runtime or factory-generated calibrations to convert camera positions into coordinates that can be used by the motion platform. The robot paints the nails based on the selected nail treatment type. Determining the movement of the hand or nail may be determined by determining a first position of the hand / nail and then a second position of the hand / nail at a later time. If the distance between the first position and the second position exceeds a threshold, the system determines that the hand / nail has moved. Alternatively, a first image of the target location at a first time point may be compared to a second image at a second time point, and if the pixel comparison indicates hand / nail movement above a threshold, the system determines that the hand / nail has moved.

[0025] An example of a robotic nail painting system is disclosed in US Pat. No. 10,939,738, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0026] Automatic Blotter One system included in this disclosure is a system for wiping nail polish, referred to herein as an automatic blotter. An automatic blotter handles the management of dispensed nail polish or other materials. In some embodiments, the precise flow of dispensed polish may be difficult to start and stop due to the polish's actuation mechanism, including the cartridge. For example, polish only flows from the cartridge tip when sufficient pressure is properly applied to the rear of the stopper on the back of the cartridge. Because the onset of actual polish flow is unpredictable, robotic devices for automatic nail polish application may occasionally benefit from a location for initially sweeping or wiping some polish from the cartridge tip. This same location may be used to collect unused polish at the end of a nail painting procedure when the dispenser is stopped. This collection may be achieved by blotting onto a blotting material (e.g., a strip of paper) that is removed from the system at regular intervals or onto a mechanized platform that does not require the same level of maintenance, such as replenishing paper.

[0027] In some embodiments, the automated blotter may include a platform and an automated blotting surface. The platform may be positioned adjacent to a robotic dispenser of a robotic device for automated nail polish application. For example, the platform may be within a housing of a robotic nail system having a dispenser, such that the dispenser may move to a surface to allow for blotting functions. The platform may be directly adjacent to the dispenser, such as directly below where the dispenser tip is located, or directly below or next to where the nail to be painted is located. The robotic dispenser may be configured to dispense nail polish. The platform's location ensures optimal access to the dispenser to efficiently perform its tasks. The platform may also serve as a stable base to support components, such as the blotting surface, or perhaps other related components, such as the robotic dispenser itself, or other accessories required for the manicure process.

[0028] The automated blotting surface may be positioned on a platform and is intended to receive the discharge of nail polish dispensed from a robotic dispenser. For example, the blotting surface may be designed to efficiently capture and retain excess or accidentally dispensed nail polish, contributing to maintaining cleanliness and potentially improving the precision of the polish application process.

[0029] The blotting surface may provide space for the robotic dispenser to initially drain or purge some nail polish from the cartridge. Despite the pressurized nature of the cartridge, the initiation of polish flow is unpredictable, frequently resulting in initial spray or overspray. By directing this initial drain toward the blotting surface, the system may ensure a more controlled and predictable application of polish once applied to the nail.

[0030] The blotting surface may be used to wipe or remove excess nail polish from the dispenser tip as needed during the nail application process, for example, for blotting between coats of each nail.

[0031] After the nail painting procedure, some nail polish may still remain in the dispenser. Instead of allowing the excess polish to dry and potentially clog the system, the excess polish may be drained onto a blotting surface. This helps keep the dispenser clean and ready for the next use.

[0032] Blotting surfaces may also offer options for different methods of managing excess polish acquired, either via removable paper strips or via mechanized or automated surfaces. For example, paper strips are disposable and discarded after saturation, whereas automated surfaces require periodic replenishment. In contrast, automated surfaces may require less frequent maintenance and may be self-cleaning or easily cleanable.

[0033] In some embodiments, the automated blotting surface is movable or rotatable to prevent oversaturation or accumulation in a first area of ​​the blotting surface. As the surface moves or rotates, the nail polish spreads across different areas, efficiently distributing the material and preventing accumulation. This aspect prevents any single area from becoming over-absorbed and may allow the blotting surface to be used for a longer period of time before needing to be replaced or cleaned. The rotation or movement of the blotting surface ensures that the entire surface is used over time, rather than concentrating the polish in one place. The larger the area used, the more polish may be accommodated during multiple polish dispensing cycles. While the blotting surface is shown as a disk in Figures 3A-D, it may take other forms, such as a conveyor belt that moves under and returns under a scraper to allow continuous scraping.

[0034] In some embodiments, the automated blotting surface is removable so that it may be removed from the platform. By providing a movable blotting surface, a user may be able to easily remove it for cleaning or maintenance inspections without having to operate the entire automated blotter system. This allows focus on cleaning the surfaces where the nail polish actually accumulates, improving the hygiene and performance of the system.

[0035] In some embodiments, the automated blotting surface has a layered structure, where an upper layer is covered with nail polish and can be peeled off to expose a clean layer underneath. This multi-layer structure allows the blotting surface of this embodiment to have an extended lifespan. When the upper layer becomes overabsorbed with nail polish, it can simply be peeled off to expose the clean layer underneath, ready for use. The peelable design also makes maintenance simple and quick. The peeling of each layer can be automated. For example, an arm can contact the peelable surface and slide the layer from the stack, or pinchers can grasp the upper layer and pinch both ends to pull it from the stack, or other automated peeling mechanisms can be used.

[0036] In some embodiments, the automated blotting surface includes a continuous roll of material. The roll of blotting material may be mounted in a holder or compartment within the automated blotter platform. For example, the roll of blotting material may be mounted on a cylindrical rod. When new blotting material is to be applied, a motor may be coupled to the rod, and the motor may be operated to rotate the rod, causing the roll to rotate and release more material onto the blotting surface. Because the blotting surface is a continuous roll, a substantial amount of material may be produced for blotting. This allows for extended use before the roll requires replacement, contributing to efficiency in situations where frequent or heavy nail polish applications are required. Instead of changing individual layers or manually cleaning the surface, the automated blotter may simply apply new blotting material to the surface as needed, saving both time and effort. The rotation of the new blotting material prevents nail polish from accumulating in one place.

[0037] In one embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 3A-D, an automated blotter 300 includes a blotting surface 302, a scraper 304, and a waste channel (or waste inlet) 306. The blotting surface 302 is rotatable about a central axis. The blotting surface 302 is configured to collect nail polish dispensed onto it. The blotting surface may be a disk, but may also have other shapes, such as a square, rectangle, or triangle. The blotting surface may have a smooth or textured surface, or an irregular surface with protrusions or ridges. The blotting surface may include a non-porous material capable of removing nail polish from the blotting surface. The non-porous material may be glass, metal, ceramic, silicon, plastic, or other material, or a combination of one or more of these materials. The blotting material may also be a porous material, such as paper or fiber.

[0038] A scraper 304 may be adjacent to the blotting surface to remove nail polish thereon. As shown in FIGS. 3A-C, the scraper is attached to an extendable arm 310 above the blotting surface 302. The scraper arm may comprise a rigid material. The scraper may be attached to the underside of the arm and may be positioned above or in contact with the blotting surface to scrape the nail polish from the blotting surface. The scraper may include a blade or a surface with an edge positioned above or directly above the blotting surface such that as the blotting surface passes over the scraper, any material on the blotting surface comes into contact with the blade and is captured by the blade to scrape or release the material from the blotting surface. The scraper may be adjustable in position or angle relative to the blotting surface to enable removal of nail polish from the blotting surface. Different adjustments may be made for different types of blotting surfaces, such as paper and glass surfaces. The edge or blade may be adjusted to be closer or farther from the surface. The angle at which the scraper is positioned may also be adjusted. In some embodiments, the scraper may be moved upward or folded to allow access to the underside of the scraper for cleaning the material on the scraper.

[0039] The scraper 304 may include a disposal guide 314. The disposal guide 314 may be disposed on an upper portion of the scraper 304. The disposal guide 314 may collect the nail polish removed by the scraper. After collecting the nail polish waste, the disposal guide 314 may direct the nail polish waste toward the disposal channel 306.

[0040] A waste channel 306 is adjacent to the scraper to collect the nail polish scraped by the scraper and direct the scraped nail polish to a waste collection area. The waste channel may include grooves adjacent to the blotting surface to direct the scraped nail polish toward the waste collection area. The waste channel may use centrifugal force generated by the rotating blotting surface to move the scraped nail polish toward the waste collection area. The waste channel may have any shape, including those shown in FIGS. 3A-C. For example, the waste channel may be an elongated tube into which the scraped nail polish enters. The scraped nail polish may travel through the waste channel 306 to a waste outlet 316. The grooves may be in contact with or directly adjacent to the blotting surface so that the scraped nail polish is captured in the grooves as the blotting surface moves.

[0041] The automated blotter may include a motor 308 mechanically coupled to the blotting surface 302 via a mechanical coupling 320 and configured to drive rotation of the blotting surface. The motor may be configured to control the speed of the rotatable blotting surface. The automated blotter may be housed within or adjacent to a robotic device for automated nail polish application. For example, the automated blotter may be mounted on a platform positioned adjacent to a robotic dispenser of the robotic device.

[0042] In some embodiments, the tip of the robotic dispenser may contact the blotting surface according to a predetermined pattern. The pattern may range from tiny specks of nail polish dispersed across various portions of the blotting surface to lines or puddles. As the robotic dispenser continues operation, various regions of the blotting surface may exhibit an array of dots of nail polish.

[0043] To describe the operation of an automated blotter in more detail, the blotting surface serves to collect nail polish spots or stains and transport them to a designated area for removal by the scraper. As explained above, the scraper may feature a rigid blade for efficient cleaning / scraping of the blotting surface. Attached to an arm extending above the blotting surface, the scraper blade may be in direct contact with or positioned directly above the blotting surface.

[0044] Motor 308 may be attached to a rotating shaft 318 connected to blotting surface 302 via a belt or pulley set to provide rotation of blotting surface 302. The calculated slow rotation of the blotting surface may allow time for droplets of nail polish to air dry, aiding in their removal by the scraper without leaving behind residual marks. As the blotting surface rotates, dots of accumulated nail polish slide under the scraper, where they are removed. The scraped polish accumulates in front of the scraper for disposal.

[0045] As the scraper blade removes a portion of the nail polish, the resulting mass of scraped material is slowly pushed toward a waste channel tube or similar waste receptacle by centrifugal force generated by the rotating blotting surface. The waste channel tube may be an elongated tube with an opening located above or adjacent to the blotting surface. The waste channel tube may be designed to receive waste material consisting of the scraped nail polish. The lower opening of the tube may deposit the waste material in a designated waste location. In some embodiments, a guide groove or elevated guide structure on the blotting surface may be implemented to guide the waste material toward the waste channel tube. Alternatively, an arm with a guide may be used to guide the waste material toward the tube. After the dried polish mass falls through the waste channel tube, it merges with other waste at the tube's outlet. In some cases, the waste channel outlet may be directed directly to a trash can or other shaped container for waste collection and subsequent disposal.

[0046] The automatic blotter may be part of a robotic device for automated nail polish application or may be located within the housing of the robotic device. The automatic blotter may be a separate system designed to allow blotting of a nail polish dispenser or any other material dispenser. When the automatic blotter is a standalone system, a user may manually wipe off the nail polish on the automatic blotter, and a scraper may scrape off the polish and collect the residue in a waste inlet or other waste collection device to maintain the cleanliness of the blotting surface.

[0047] An automated method for cleaning a blotting surface of an automated blotter may include identifying when an area of ​​the blotting surface contains nail polish and engaging the area of ​​the blotting surface with a cleaning tool to remove the nail polish. For example, the identification may be achieved through various mechanisms, such as visual inspection or sensor-based measurement.

[0048] Upon successful identification of nail polish on the blotting surface, the blotting surface may be actuated to engage a cleaning tool to interact with the identified area. The cleaning tool may be a scraper or another similar device. The cleaning tool may be configured to completely remove the nail polish from the entire blotting surface. Engagement of the tool with the blotting surface may involve movement or positioning of the tool so that it is optimally aligned to scrape or clean the nail polish. The process may be configured to repeat as necessary, driven by the continued detection of nail polish on the blotting surface to ensure its continued cleanliness and readiness for subsequent operations.

[0049] The method may include actuating the blotting surface to move an area of ​​the blotting surface containing the nail polish under a scraper to scrape the nail polish. The process may be initiated by activating a mechanism that moves the blotting surface. For example, the method may be accomplished by activating a scraper to engage the nail polish on the blotting surface, collecting the scraped nail polish with a waste guide positioned above the scraper, and directing the collected nail polish toward a waste collection area. The method may include directing the removed nail polish toward a waste collection area.

[0050] The automated blotter may use a strategically placed waste guide above the scraper to collect the scraped nail polish. The waste guide acts as a transfer device, directing the scraped nail polish toward a designated waste collection area. This procedure ensures that the removed nail polish is quickly and efficiently removed from the blotting surface, keeping the automated blotter clean and ready for operation.

[0051] Automatic Nail Polish Remover As shown in FIGS. 4A-B, the automatic nail polish remover system 400 includes a stationary base 402, a nail polish remover container (or pot) 404, and a rotating container holder 406.

[0052] The fixed base 402 serves as a fundamental component of the system 400. The fixed base 402 may have a widened bottom surface for better stability and to prevent tipping. The widened bottom surface may be a design choice that helps provide better stability to the system 400. This may prevent the system from tipping over and ensure safe and smooth operation. The fixed base may be designed to accommodate a nail polish remover container 404, or pot. A rotating container holder 406 is rotatably disposed on the fixed base 402.

[0053] A nail polish remover container 404 may be disposed within the fixed base 402. The nail polish remover container 404 may serve as a reservoir for both nail polish removal material and a solvent. The polish remover container 404 may be configured to contain a material to aid in the removal of nail polish. In some cases, the material may include a wiping material soaked in a solvent. The wiping material may be foam, sponge, silk, or other material or combination of materials used to remove polish from nails. The solvent may be acetone, ethyl acetate, butyl acetate, isopropyl alcohol, propylene carbonate, or methyl ethyl ketone, or other material or combination of materials. When the soaked wiping material comes into contact with the nail polish, the solvent in the material may dissolve the nail polish.

[0054] An exemplary embodiment of a nail polish remover container 404 is shown in Figures 5A-B. In Figure 5A, the nail polish remover container 404 has a cap 502. The cap 502 may be removed before the container 404 is placed inside a rotating container holder 406. In Figure 5B, a foam 504 is provided inside the container 404.

[0055] In some embodiments, materials to aid in nail polish removal may include abrasives, including particles. When the abrasives come into contact with the nail polish, they physically scrape and wear away the layer of nail polish. The abrasives may include emery boards, pumice stones, or silicon carbide sandpaper, or other materials for abrading the surface of the polish.

[0056] The rotating container holder 406 may be rotatably disposed on a stationary base, thereby securing the nail polish removal device container to the stationary base and allowing the rotating container holder to rotate the nail polish removal device container during use. The rotating container holder 406 may include a cavity designed to accommodate the nail polish removal device container and provide stable positioning for the nail polish removal device container to prevent tipping or spillage. The container may be designed to move in other ways besides or in addition to rotation. For example, it may move up and down or side to side within the holder to aid in polish removal. A mechanical base below the container may be moved by a lever or other system to move the container up and down, as well as side to side.

[0057] In some embodiments, the system 400 may include a stop / start button located on the stationary base 402 to stop or start the rotation process. For example, a user may press the stop / start button to stop or activate rotation of the rotating vessel holder. In some embodiments, insertion of a user's finger into the vessel may cause automatic rotation to start, and removal of the finger may cause automatic rotation to stop.

[0058] The automatic nail polish remover system 400 may include an ejection mechanism (e.g., a button) 408 for removing the nail polish remover container from the fixed base. In some embodiments, the ejection mechanism may be a physical button located on the fixed base 402. When pressed, the button triggers a mechanical action, such as a spring-loaded release, that ejects the nail polish remover container 404 from its position in the rotating container holder 406, allowing for easy removal from the base. In some embodiments, the ejection mechanism may be a lever. When the lever is depressed or raised, a sliding or lifting action occurs to eject the nail polish remover container 404. In some embodiments, the ejection mechanism may be a slide or switch. When moved in one direction, a simple mechanical action may occur that ejects the nail polish remover container 404.

[0059] The system may further include a sensor (or detector) 410 adjacent to the nail polish removal device container 404 to detect a user's finger adjacent to the nail polish removal device container 404 and activate rotation of the rotating container holder, which rotates the nail polish removal device container around the user's finger to remove nail polish. In some embodiments, the sensor 410 may be a proximity sensor that may detect when a user's finger is near or inside the nail polish removal device container 404. By way of example, the sensor may emit an electromagnetic or ultrasonic field and then detect a change in the field. When a finger that disrupts the field is inserted into or near the container, the disruption is detected and signals the system to activate the rotating container holder 406. The sensor may be located on a wall, a protrusion attached near the base, or the base, as shown in FIGS. 4A-B, extending upward from the base so that the sensor is located directly above or near the opening of the container. In other embodiments, the sensor may be located inside the container on the wall of the container or on the bottom of the container. The sensor may be located directly above the opening of the container or on the base.

[0060] In operation, a user may begin the process by placing a finger in the nail polish remover container 404 filled with the material soaked in solvent. When the finger is detected by the sensor 410 or a start button is pressed, the rotating container holder 406 may begin rotating the nail polish remover container 404. As the container rotates, the user's finger, and particularly the nail, may be continuously brought into contact with the material and / or solvent. The entire surface of the nail may come into contact with the material and / or solvent, ensuring thorough cleaning.

[0061] The material and / or solvent may chemically interact with the nail polish, causing it to dissolve. Once the nail polish is removed, the user may remove their finger from the nail polish removal device container 404. The system may be deactivated by removing the finger from the sensor 410, manually using a stop button, or automatically by a built-in timer.

[0062] Nail Polish Cartridges and Caps As shown in FIGS. 6A-D, the cartridge 600 includes a reservoir 602, a nozzle 604, a sealing cap 606, and an electronic memory device 608. The reservoir 602 is configured to hold nail polish 620. The reservoir may include a body having a first end and a second end of a chamber that stores the nail polish. The cartridge 600 may include a rear seal 610 that seals the rear of the reservoir. The reservoir may be resistant to potential chemical reactions with components of the polish to maintain the integrity of the polish. The reservoir may be rigid enough to withstand external pressure, yet flexible enough to allow the polish to be extruded when force is applied. The reservoir may be cylindrical, allowing for efficient use of space and easy dispensing of the polish. The size of the reservoir may vary depending on the intended single-use amount of nail polish. The nail polish in the reservoir 602 may be prevented from backflowing or leaking by the rear seal 610. The seal may be useful in maintaining the life and usability of the polish, as it may prevent unwanted exposure to air which may degrade the polish.

[0063] A stopper 622 may be positioned within the reservoir to force the nail polish out of the nozzle when force is applied. This action may allow the nail polish to be dispensed in a controlled manner, reducing the possibility of waste or leakage. The stopper may be made of a rubber material with properties that are resistant to the chemical composition of the nail polish. The stopper material may be resistant to the chemical components of the polish, which may potentially contaminate or alter the properties of the polish, to prevent degradation over time. In some embodiments, rubber may be used as a stopper because it is impermeable to gases and resistant to various chemicals, heat, and aging. In addition to being resistant to the chemicals of the polish, the stopper may be flexible enough to move within the reservoir and durable enough to withstand repeated application.

[0064] The nozzle 604 may be designed to be removably coupled to the reservoir 602, meaning that it can be attached and detached as needed. This feature may allow for easy assembly, replacement, or cleaning of the nozzle, enhancing the convenience of cartridge use. The nozzle may be designed with a shape and size that allows for controlled, smooth dispensing of nail polish. The nozzle design may ensure that a predetermined amount of polish is dispensed, contributing to a cleaner, more satisfying application. The nozzle may have a tapered tip or a precision-molded orifice that precisely directs the polish onto the nail surface. In this way, polish application may be efficient and reduce the chance of spillage or waste. The nozzle may be constructed of a material that is resistant to the chemical properties of nail polish to avoid corrosion or wear and tear over time. This may provide longevity, safety, and consistent performance of the cartridge.

[0065] A sealing cap 606 may be removably attached over the nozzle to seal the nozzle, thereby preventing air from entering the cartridge and evaporating the nail polish's volatile components. The sealing cap 606 may be attached over the nozzle 604. The cap may have an open end that fits over the nozzle and a closed end opposite the open end. One or both of the closed ends may be tapered. The closed end may be designed for a tight, secure fit to create a tight seal, preventing any leakage of nail polish when not in use. The sealing cap 606 may also include a cap retention feature 618, such as a tab or support pin along the open end of the cap, to allow the cartridge to be hung and to serve an operational or display function. This may facilitate a consumer's selection of a color or finish. The tabs or support pins may protrude outward from the open end of the cap and may be curved downward to create protrusions or hooks that may rest on a surface or on and around a rail to hold the cartridge in the hanging position. There may be one or more support pins or tabs in the hanging position. There may also be one or more slots or grooves in the hanging position along the open end of the cap near the support pins or tabs.

[0066] The inner cap 616 may be disposed inside the sealing cap 606 at the closed end of the sealing cap 606. The inner cap 616 may be in sealing contact with the tip 614 of the nozzle 604 when the sealing cap 606 covers the tip 614 of the nozzle 604, such that the inner cap 616 and the sealing cap 606 form a dual-cap structure to ensure preservation of the integrity of the polish. The inner cap may create an additional tip seal 630 on the nozzle, particularly against the tip 614 of the nozzle 604. When the outer sealing cap covers the tip of the nozzle, the inner cap may strengthen the seal, thereby providing an additional layer of protection. This redundancy may ensure that even if the outer cap does not completely seal the nozzle, the inner cap provides the necessary backup to avoid exposing the polish to air.

[0067] The electronic storage device 608 may be a data label containing a radio frequency identification (RFID) chip, a near field communication (NFC) chip, or other form of wireless communication device. For example, the label may hold information about the cartridge contents, such as color, composition, or a specific batch number for identification and tracking purposes. This may aid in selecting the correct polish based on consumer preference or a preset mode. By incorporating RFID or NFC technology, the data label may communicate directly with other devices, such as a robotic device for automated nail polish application. This may enable automated functions such as selecting, dispensing, and applying the correct polish, thus improving efficiency and operational accuracy. The data label may also allow interactive functionality. For example, a user may hold their smartphone over an NFC-enabled label to access additional product information, promotional content, or verify product authenticity. Usage data stored on the label may be uploaded and analyzed to gain insights into user behavior, cartridge usage, or to maintain inventory. This data may guide subsequent product development, inventory management, and other business decisions.

[0068] Cartridge dispenser As shown in FIGS. 7A-C, a cartridge dispenser 700 may include a display area 702, an angled feed rail 704, a pair of vertical guide slots 706, and a discard ramp 708. The display area is configured to display cartridges. The display area is the portion of the cartridge dispenser where cartridges are arranged. This area is designed to allow a user to easily view and identify the cartridges. The display area may be designed not only to arrange the cartridges but also to provide easy access for cartridge removal. It may feature a sloped surface that allows the cartridges to be tilted toward the user. The angle of tilt may be carefully optimized to balance cartridge visibility and the user's ease of grasping and extracting the cartridge. In some embodiments, the rails are not sloped, and the cartridges are moved by a mechanical system that pushes the cartridges along the rails or manually by the user.

[0069] The angled feed rail 704 may be adjacent to the display area. The angled feed rail may be adapted to hold cartridges arranged along the angled feed rail, with each cartridge including a seal. The angled feed rail may hold an orderly arrangement of cartridges. Each cartridge, along with its sealing cap, may be neatly aligned along the rail. The angled feed rail may be located adjacent to the display area. The strategic placement allows for efficient movement of cartridges from the rail to the display area. The cartridge dispenser may be included as part of a robotic device that uses the cartridges in conjunction with a robotic dispenser to automatically apply polish to a user's nails.

[0070] The inclined feed rail may interact with a pair of vertical guide slots. The slots may cooperate with support pins in the sealing cap to secure the cartridge on the feed rail and control its descent into the display area. The inclination of the rail may serve two purposes. First, it may help present the cartridge in a prominent manner to the user. Second, it may utilize gravity to guide the cartridge forward into the display area chart, facilitating efficient cartridge transfer when one is removed.

[0071] A pair of vertical guide slots may be coupled to the supply rails to control the direction and path of the cartridges as they descend from the supply rails to the display area. The vertical guide slots may serve to direct the direction and path of the cartridges as they descend from the inclined supply rails to the display area. The vertical guide slots may facilitate a smooth, controlled drop of the cartridges into the display area. The sealing cap of each cartridge may interact with the vertical guide slots. The sealing cap of each cartridge may rest on the vertical guide slots. The sealing cap rests on the slots and helps hold the cartridges in place on the inclined supply rails. The slots may also contribute to smooth movement of the cartridges when a user withdraws them. The vertical guide slots may be coupled to the supply rails, making them an integral part of the cartridge movement mechanism. This coupling may ensure a seamless transition of the cartridges along the entire path from the supply rails to the display area. A support pin on the sealing cap may prevent movement when the cartridge is withdrawn by a user. The guide slot design may ensure that the sealing cap remains in place while the cartridge is being ejected, facilitating easy separation.

[0072] A disposal ramp 708 may be positioned below the display area to collect sealing caps removed from cartridges. When a cartridge is withdrawn from the display area, the sealing cap of the cartridge rotates away from the display area and falls onto the disposal ramp. When a sealing cap 712 is removed from a cartridge, the disposal ramp 708 may be positioned below the display area to collect the sealing cap 712 in an orderly manner. When a cartridge is withdrawn from the display area by a user, the sealing cap, held in place by a support pin, may separate from the cartridge body. The cap may rotate away from the display area and fall onto the disposal ramp. The disposal ramp may operate based on the principle of gravity, directing the sealing cap into a disposal bin 710 or a waste receptacle. This may ensure orderly collection of caps without causing clutter or disruption in the display area. For example, the cap may slide down the ramp, minimizing the possibility of the caps clogging the feeder.

[0073] The cartridge dispenser may include a sloped surface within the viewing area for seating the support pin of the sealing cap of each cartridge 714, allowing the cartridge 714 to tilt forward for easy access. The sloped surface may be located within the viewing area of ​​the cartridge dispenser. It may be designed to seat the support pin of the sealing cap attached to each cartridge. By seating the support pin of the sealing cap, the sloped surface may allow the cartridge to tilt forward toward the user. This forward tilt may make it convenient for the user to view and physically access the desired cartridge. When the user pulls the cartridge downward, the pin may remain in place due to its design and location, thus causing the sealing cap to dynamically disengage from the cartridge when pulled out by the user.

[0074] The support pin on the sealing cap of the cartridge may be configured to prevent movement of the sealing cap and allow the sealing cap to separate from the cartridge when the cartridge is withdrawn by a user. The function of the support pin may be to secure the cartridge in place on the inclined feed rail of the dispenser and cooperate with the vertical guide slot. When a user withdraws the cartridge from the display area, the support pin on the sealing cap may remain stationary. This configuration may secure the cap in place, allowing the cartridge to move while the sealing cap remains stationary. When a user withdraws the cartridge, the fixed position of the sealing cap by the support pin may facilitate separation of the cap from the cartridge. This mechanism may allow smooth and easy removal of the cartridge from the display area without the cap attached.

[0075] The cartridge dispenser may include a guide adjacent to the supply rail to allow the next available cartridge to automatically drop into the display area when the previous cartridge is removed from the display area. The guide may allow the next available cartridge to automatically drop into the display area when the previous cartridge is removed. The guide may work in conjunction with a sloped supply rail to maintain a smooth flow of cartridges into the display area. As a cartridge is removed, the slope of the supply rail urges the next cartridge to move down toward the guide. The guide may ensure a seamless, user-friendly transition of cartridges, maintaining a constant supply of cartridges into the display area for the user.

[0076] In some embodiments, the cartridge may include a body having a first end, a second end, and a chamber formed between the first end and the second end for containing nail polish; a tip coupled to the first end of the body and configured to direct a flow of nail polish onto the surface of the nail; a rear seal coupled to the second end of the body to provide a seal; and a removable sealing cap having an open end and a closed end, the removable sealing cap covering the tip to seal the tip of the cartridge, the sealing cap including one or more support pins adjacent the open end.

[0077] References herein to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. The appearances of the phrases "in one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" in various places in the specification do not necessarily all refer to the same embodiment.

[0078] Throughout this specification, some embodiments have used the term "coupled," along with its derivatives. The term "coupled," as used herein, is not necessarily limited to two or more elements that are in direct physical or electrical contact. Rather, the term "coupled" may encompass two or more elements that are not in direct contact with each other, but yet still cooperate or interact with each other or are configured to provide a thermal conduction path between the elements.

[0079] Similarly, as used herein, the words "comprises," "comprising," "includes," "including," "has," "having," or any variations thereof are intended to include a non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, article, or apparatus comprising a list of elements is not necessarily limited to only those elements and may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to the process, method, article, or apparatus.

[0080] Additionally, the use of "a" or "an" is used herein to describe elements and components of the embodiments. This is done merely for convenience and to give a general sense of the embodiments. The description should be interpreted as including one or at least one, and the singular also includes the plural unless otherwise clearly indicated. The use of and / or is intended to mean either "both," "and," or "or."

[0081] Additionally, the language used herein has been selected primarily for readability and descriptive purposes, and may not be selected to define or limit the subject matter of the invention. Accordingly, the disclosure of the embodiments is intended to be illustrative, but not limiting, of the scope of the embodiments.

[0082] While particular embodiments and applications have been illustrated and described herein, it is to be understood that the embodiments are not limited to the precise construction and components disclosed herein, and that various modifications, changes, and variations may be made in the arrangement, operation, method, and apparatus details of the embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the embodiments.

Claims

1. a blotting surface or test area designed to receive the discharge of nail polish dispensed from the robotic dispenser; Automatic blotter with

2. 10. The automated blotter of claim 1, wherein the blotting surface is movable or rotatable to prevent oversaturation or accumulation in a first region of the blotting surface, and the automated blotter further comprises a platform positioned adjacent to a robotic dispenser configured to dispense nail polish, and the blotting surface or test region is positioned on the platform.

3. 10. The automated blotter of claim 1, wherein the blotting surface is removable such that the blotting surface may be removed from a nail service robot.

4. 2. The automatic blotter of claim 1, wherein the blotting surface comprises a layered structure, and when an upper layer of the layered structure is covered with nail polish, the upper layer is peelable to expose a clean layer underneath.

5. The automated blotter of claim 1 , wherein the blotting surface comprises a continuous roll of material.

6. a blotting surface rotatable about a central axis, said surface configured to collect nail polish dispensed onto said surface; a scraper adjacent to the blotting surface for removing nail polish on the blotting surface; a waste channel adjacent to the scraper for collecting the nail polish scraped by the scraper and directing the scraped nail polish to a waste collection area; Automatic blotter with

7. 7. The automated blotter of claim 6, further comprising a motor mechanically connected to the blotting surface and configured to facilitate rotation of the blotting surface.

8. 8. The automated blotter of claim 7, wherein the drive motor is configured to control the speed of the rotatable blotting surface.

9. The automated blotter of claim 6 , wherein the blotting surface comprises a disk.

10. 7. The automated blotter of claim 6, wherein the blotting surface comprises a non-porous material that allows for removal of nail polish from the blotting surface.

11. 11. The automatic blotter of claim 10, wherein the non-porous material comprises any one of glass, metal, ceramic, silicon, and plastic.

12. 7. The automated blotter of claim 6, wherein the scraper is mounted on an arm that is extendable above the blotting surface.

13. 13. The automatic blotter of claim 12, wherein the arm of the scraper comprises a rigid material, and the scraper is attached to an underside of the arm and positioned above and in contact with the blotting surface to scrape nail polish from the blotting surface.

14. 7. The automated blotter of claim 6, wherein the scraper is adjustable in position or angle relative to the blotting surface to allow removal of nail polish from the blotting surface.

15. 7. The automated blotter of claim 6, wherein the waste channel tube includes a groove adjacent the blotting surface for directing the scraped nail polish toward the waste collection area.

16. 16. The automated blotter of claim 15, wherein the waste channel uses centrifugal force generated by the rotating blotting surface to move the scraped nail polish toward the waste collection area.

17. 7. The automated blotter of claim 6, wherein the automated blotter is housed within or adjacent to a robotic nailing system.

18. 1. A method for cleaning a blotting surface of an automated blotter, comprising: identifying when an area of ​​the blotting surface contains nail polish; and engaging a cleaning tool with the area of ​​the blotting surface to remove the nail polish.

19. 20. The method of claim 18, further comprising directing the removed nail polish toward a waste collection area.

20. engaging the area of ​​the blotting surface with the automated cleaning tool to remove the nail polish; 20. The method of claim 18, comprising actuating the blotting surface to move the blotting surface containing the nail polish under the scraper to scrape off the nail polish.

21. driving the blotting surface to move an area of ​​the blotting surface containing nail polish under the scraper to scrape off the nail polish; activating the scraper to engage the nail polish on the blotting surface; collecting the scraped nail polish using a disposal guide disposed above the scraper; directing the collected nail polish toward a waste collection area; 20. The method of claim 18, comprising:

22. A fixed holder; a nail polish remover container disposed within the fixed holder, the nail polish remover container configured to contain a material to aid in the removal of nail polish; a rotating container holder disposed on the stationary holder for securing the nail polish remover container to the stationary holder and for rotating the nail polish remover container during use; A system comprising:

23. 23. The system of claim 22, further comprising an ejection mechanism for removing the nail polish remover container from the stationary holder.

24. 23. The system of claim 22, wherein the fixed holder is a base with a widened bottom surface to provide better stability and prevent tipping.

25. 23. The system of claim 22, wherein the rotating container holder comprises a cavity designed to receive the nail polish remover container and provide a stable positioning for the nail polish remover container to prevent tipping or spillage.

26. 23. The system of claim 22, wherein the material for assisting in the removal of nail polish comprises a wiping material soaked in a solvent, wherein the solvent in the material dissolves the nail polish when the soaked wiping material comes into contact with the nail polish.

27. 23. The system of claim 22, wherein the material to assist in nail polish removal comprises an abrasive material containing particles that physically scrape and wear away the layer of nail polish when the abrasive material contacts the nail polish.

28. 28. The system of claim 27, wherein the abrasive material comprises one of an emery board, pumice, and silicon carbide abrasive paper.

29. 23. The system of claim 22, comprising a sensor adjacent to the nail polish removal device container to detect a user's finger adjacent to the nail polish removal device container and actuate rotation of the rotating container holder to rotate the nail polish removal device container around the user's finger to remove the nail polish.

30. a reservoir for holding nail polish; a nozzle connected to the reservoir for dispensing the nail polish; a removable sealing cap for sealing the nozzle; an electronic storage device; A cartridge comprising:

31. 31. The cartridge of claim 30, further comprising a rear seal.

32. 31. The cartridge of claim 30, further comprising a stopper disposed inside the reservoir to force the nail polish out of the nozzle when a force is applied.

33. 31. The cartridge of claim 30, wherein the stopper is made from a rubber material suitable for withstanding the chemical composition of nail polish.

34. 31. The cartridge of claim 30, further comprising an inner cap disposed inside the sealing cap and in sealing contact with the tip of the nozzle when the sealing cap covers the tip, the inner cap and the sealing cap forming a double cap structure to ensure preservation of the integrity of the polish.

35. a display area for displaying the cartridge; an angled feed rail adjacent the display area for holding the cartridges disposed along the angled feed rail, each cartridge including a sealing cap; a pair of vertical guide slots coupled to the supply rail for controlling the direction and path of the cartridges as they descend from the supply rail to the display area, the sealing cap of each cartridge resting on the vertical guide slot to retain the cartridge on the inclined supply rail; a disposal lamp located below the display area for collecting sealing caps removed from the cartridge; When a cartridge is withdrawn from the display area, the sealing cap of the cartridge rotates away from the display area and drops onto the disposal ramp.

36. 36. The cartridge dispenser of claim 35, further comprising a ramp within the display area for locating a support pin of the sealing cap of each cartridge, allowing the cartridges to tilt forward for easy access.

37. 37. The cartridge dispenser of claim 36, wherein the support pin of the sealing cap of the cartridge is configured to prevent movement of the sealing cap when the cartridge is pulled out by a user to allow the sealing cap to separate from the cartridge.

38. 36. The cartridge dispenser of claim 35, further comprising a guide adjacent the supply rail to allow a next available cartridge to automatically drop into the display area when a previous cartridge is removed from the display area.

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