A personal care device configured to perform light-based hair removal

Abstract

In accordance with one aspect, a personal care device 52 for performing a light-based hair removal or photoepilation treatment on a subject's body is provided. The personal care device 52 includes a housing 54 including a first window or opening 68, a light source configured to generate light for performing the light-based hair removal or photoepilation treatment, the light source positioned within the housing such that the light emitted by the light source illuminates the body part, a receiving member within or on the housing 54 for receiving and holding a consumer electronic device 62 within or on the personal care device 52, and an optical system 80 within the housing 54 for enabling an imaging unit 78 of the consumer electronic device 62 held within the recess 60 to capture an image of the body part through the first window or opening 68.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a personal care device configured to perform light-based hair removal or photoepilation treatment on a subject's body, and more particularly to such a personal care device that can be used with consumer electronic devices such as smartphones or tablets.

Background Art

[0002] There are personal care devices that can be used to perform light-based hair removal or photoepilation treatment on a subject using lasers and light therapies known as photoepilation or intense pulsed light (IPL). Such personal care devices for inhibiting hair growth may require contact with the skin.

[0003] Light-based hair removal is a treatment used to inhibit hair growth by exposing the skin to bright flashes or pulses of light, which may be referred to as IPL (intense pulsed light), in which case the light pulses are generated by a lamp or bulb. Alternatively, the flash or pulse can be generated using a laser or one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs). The light penetrates the skin and is absorbed by the hair roots of the hair, among other places. The temperature of the hair roots of the hair will increase, and subsequently the temperature of the surrounding tissue will also increase. If the temperature rises sufficiently, hair growth will be inhibited. This process is known as photothermolysis.

[0004] Personal care devices for light-based hair removal may include one or more sensors for monitoring one or more parameters before or during the light-based hair removal process. For example, in order to perform a light hair removal treatment successfully and also to prevent injury in case the light pulse is directed into other parts of the body such as the eyes, contact with the skin is required. For this reason, the personal care device may include a skin contact sensor for measuring and detecting contact with the skin. Another type of sensor used in a personal care device for light-based hair removal is a skin tone sensor that measures the skin tone of the skin to which the light-based hair removal process (light hair removal) is to be applied.

[0005] These (and other) various sensors in a personal care device for light-based hair removal are recognized to increase the cost and complexity of such devices (including the manufacture of these devices), and it is desirable to provide these functions to a personal care device for light-based hair removal without substantially increasing the cost and / or complexity of the personal care device.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] It is recognized that smartphones and other types of consumer electronic devices (such as laptops, tablets, etc.) include several different types of sensors that can be used to obtain information useful for light-based hair removal processes. In particular, many types of consumer electronic devices include one or more cameras or imaging units that can be used to obtain an image of the subject, and those images are processed to determine one or more parameters useful for the light-based hair removal process.

[0007] In some cases, these images are needed in real time, i.e., they are needed at the time when an optical-based hair removal process is to be performed. For example, the images are required to be available at the time when a light pulse is to be triggered so that it can be determined whether a personal care device is in contact with the skin and / or whether the skin tone is appropriate for the light pulses to be generated. A smartphone or other consumer electronic device typically requires the user of the personal care device to manually hold it in an appropriate position or position it in the subject's environment in some other way in order to acquire the required images. However, this can be difficult when the user also has to hold the personal care device by hand.

[0008] Therefore, it is desirable to provide a solution that enables a smartphone or other similar type of consumer electronic device to be more easily used with a personal care device for optical-based hair removal or photoepilation to address one or more of the above problems.

Means for Solving the Problem

[0009] According to a first specific aspect, there is provided a personal care device configured to perform an optical-based hair removal or photoepilation treatment on a subject's body. The personal care device includes a housing having a first window or opening, a light source configured to generate light for performing the optical-based hair removal or photoepilation treatment, the light source being disposed within the housing such that the light emitted by the light source irradiates a part of the body, an accommodating member provided on a part or surface of the housing configured to accommodate and hold a consumer electronic device within or on the surface of the personal care device, and an optical system within the housing configured such that an imaging unit of the consumer electronic device can acquire an image of a part of the body through the first window or opening when held by the accommodating member.

[0010] In some embodiments, the optical system includes one or more mirrors and / or lenses.

[0011] In some embodiments, the optical system is adjustable to accommodate various positions of imaging units on consumer electronic devices of different types.

[0012] In some embodiments, the optical system is configured to be adjustable in at least one of a direction perpendicular to the plane of the first window or opening and a direction parallel to the plane of the first window or opening.

[0013] In some embodiments, the optical system is configured to allow light from a light source of the consumer electronic device to pass through the first window or opening.

[0014] In some embodiments, the receiving member is configured such that the consumer electronic device is received and held within or on the surface of the personal care device such that the imaging plane of the imaging unit of the consumer electronic device is perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the plane of the first window or opening.

[0015] In some embodiments, the receiving member is provided in the housing and includes a recess configured and shaped to receive the consumer electronic device within the housing in a position where it is at least partially hidden.

[0016] In some embodiments, the recess is shaped such that it is capable of receiving and holding consumer electronic devices of various sizes within the recess.

[0017] In some embodiments, the personal care device further includes a holding mechanism configured to hold the consumer electronic device in a fixed position relative to the housing within the recess.

[0018] In some embodiments, the holding mechanism is configured to hold consumer electronic devices of various sizes within the recess. In these embodiments, the holding mechanism may include a cover plate that is installed to cover a portion of the consumer electronic device when it is housed within the recess, thereby configuring the consumer electronic device to be held within or on the surface of the personal care device. In alternative embodiments, the holding mechanism may include a plurality of cover plates, each configured to be installed to cover a portion of a consumer electronic device of a corresponding size when it is housed within the recess, and each configured to hold a consumer electronic device of a corresponding size within or on the surface of the personal care device.

[0019] In some embodiments, the personal care device is configured to perform light-based hair removal or hair depilation treatment on a part of the body adjacent to the first window or opening. In alternative embodiments, the personal care device further includes an opening, and the personal care device is configured to perform light-based hair removal or hair depilation treatment on a part of the body adjacent to the opening.

[0020] In some embodiments, the personal care device further includes an interface circuit within the housing, configured to communicate with the consumer electronic device. In these embodiments, the interface circuit may be configured to communicate wirelessly with the consumer electronic device.

[0021] In some embodiments, the personal care device further includes a wireless charging circuit positioned adjacent to the recess, configured to enable wireless charging of the consumer electronic device.

[0022] In some embodiments, the personal care device further includes a control circuit within the housing, configured to control one or more operations of the personal care device.

[0023] In some embodiments, the control circuit is configured to control the operation of the personal care device in response to or based on information received from a consumer electronic device. In these embodiments, the information may include one or more images acquired via an optical system by an imaging unit of the consumer electronic device, and / or the information may be obtained from one or more images acquired via an optical system by an imaging unit of the consumer electronic device. In these embodiments, the information may be related to any of skin tone, whether the personal care device is in contact with a part of the subject's body, the presence of body hair and / or other skin features, and feedback regarding light-based body hair removal or photoepilation treatment.

[0024] These and other aspects will become apparent from and will be described in connection with the embodiments described below.

[0025] Exemplary embodiments will now be described by way of example only with reference to the following drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5(a)

Figure 5(b)

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0027] FIG. 1 is a view of a conventional personal care device 2 that can be used to perform a light-based hair removal or photoepilation treatment that includes the application of light pulses to an area of skin. The personal care device 2 can be held in one or both hands of a user during use. The personal care device 2 is for use on the body of a subject (e.g., a person or an animal), and is for performing a light-based hair removal or photoepilation treatment on the body of the subject when the personal care device 2 is in contact with the subject's skin, which is known as photoepilation or intense pulsed light (IPL) hair growth inhibition.

[0028] As described herein, the personal care device 2 is operated or used by a "user", and the personal care device 2 is used on the body of a "subject". In some cases, the user and the subject are the same person, i.e., the personal care device 2 is held in the hand by the user and used on oneself (e.g., used on the skin of the user's leg). In other cases, the user and the subject are different people, e.g., the personal care device 2 is held in the hand by the user and used on someone else.

[0029] The personal care device 2 includes a housing 4 that includes at least a grip portion 5 and a body portion 6. The grip portion 5 is shaped such that a user can hold the personal care device 2 with one hand. The body portion 6 has a first end 8 that is arranged to contact the skin of the subject when attempting to perform a light-based hair removal or photoepilation treatment on the body or skin of the subject.

[0030] In FIG. 1, the personal care device 2 is configured to perform light-based hair removal or photoepilation treatment using light or light pulses. For this reason, in FIG. 1, the first end 8 is arranged on a part or surface of the first end 8 of the main body portion 6 such that the opening 10 can be placed adjacent to or on the surface of (i.e., in contact with) the skin of the subject. The personal care device 2 includes one or more light sources 12 configured to generate light pulses that are applied to the skin of the subject through the opening 10 and perform light-based hair removal or photoepilation treatment. The one or more light sources 12 are arranged within the housing 4 (e.g., within the main body portion 6) such that light pulses are provided from the one or more light sources 12 through the opening 10. The opening 10 may be in the form of an opening at the first end 8 of the housing 4 and may include an optical waveguide 13 that is transmissive or semi-transmissive to the light pulses (i.e., the light pulses can pass through the optical waveguide 13).

[0031] In FIG. 1, the opening 10 and the optical waveguide 13 generally have a rectangular shape, resulting in a generally rectangular-shaped area on the skin surface where the light-based hair removal treatment is performed. It will be understood that the opening 10 and / or the optical waveguide 13 may have any other desired shape. For example, the opening 10 and / or the optical waveguide 13 can be square, elliptical, circular, or any other polygonal shape.

[0032] The light source 12 can be configured to generate light pulses of any suitable or desired wavelength (or wavelength range) and / or intensity. For example, the light source 12 can generate visible light, infrared (IR) light, and / or ultraviolet (UV) light. Each light source 12 can comprise any suitable type of light source, such as one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs), a flash lamp (e.g., a xenon flash lamp), one or more lasers, and the like. In a preferred embodiment, the personal care device 2 is configured to perform photoepilation, and the light source 12 is for providing high-intensity light pulses. For example, the light source 12 can provide light pulses having a spectral content within the range of 560 to 1200 nanometers (nm) with a duration of about 2.5 milliseconds (ms), because the absorption of these wavelengths heats the melanin in the body hair and hair follicles, thereby causing the hair follicles to enter a resting state and preventing the regrowth of body hair.

[0033] One or more light sources 12 are configured to provide pulses of light. That is, the light source 12 is configured to generate high-intensity light for a short duration (e.g., less than 1 second). The intensity of the light pulse should be high enough to perform a light-based hair removal or photoepilation treatment on the skin or part of the body adjacent to the aperture 10.

[0034] The illustrated handheld device 2 also includes two skin contact sensors 16 positioned on or within the surface of the first end 8 that are used to determine when the first end 8 is in contact with the skin. The skin contact sensors 16 measure a parameter indicating whether the first end 8 is in contact with the skin and generate a corresponding measurement signal (referred to as a "skin contact measurement signal") that includes a time series of measurements of the parameter. Typically, the skin contact sensors are used in a personal care device 2, particularly a photoepilator, to ensure that the personal care device 2 is properly in contact with the skin before a light pulse is generated, for the purpose of avoiding directing the light pulse into the eyes of the user or subject.

[0035] The parameter can be capacitance, in which case the skin contact sensor 16 can measure the capacitance via a corresponding pair of electrical contacts or electrodes on the surface of the first end 8, and the measured capacitance indicates whether skin contact is present. Alternatively, the parameter can be the intensity or level of light, and for this reason the skin contact sensor 16 can be a light sensor that measures the intensity or level of light incident on the light sensor, and the measured intensity or level indicates whether skin contact is present (e.g., less light / no light due to the skin covering the light sensor 16 may indicate skin contact, and vice versa). In other alternative forms, the parameter can be a measure of contact pressure, and for this reason the skin contact sensor 16 can measure the contact pressure via a corresponding pressure sensor or mechanical switch, and the measured contact pressure indicates whether there is skin contact.

[0036] The illustrated personal care device 2 also includes a skin tone sensor 18 positioned on or in the surface of the first end 8 that is used to determine the skin tone of the skin with which the first end 8 is in contact. The skin tone sensor 18 measures a parameter indicative of the skin tone of the skin and generates a measurement signal (also referred to as a "skin tone measurement signal") that includes a time series of measurements of the parameter. Typically, the skin tone sensor is used in a personal care device 2, particularly a light hair removal device, to ensure that the light pulses have an appropriate intensity for the type of skin being treated, or to even prevent the generation of light pulses if the skin type is not suitable for the light pulses (e.g., darker skin with a much higher melanin content).

[0037] The muscle tone sensor 18 can be an optical sensor, and the parameter measured by the optical sensor can be the intensity or level of light of one specific wavelength or a plurality of wavelengths reflected from the muscle. The measured intensity or level of the reflected light of a specific wavelength can indicate the muscle tone. The measured intensity or level of the reflected light may be based on the concentration of melanin in the muscle, and thus the measured intensity or level can indicate the melanin concentration. The melanin concentration can be derived, for example, from the measurement of light reflection at wavelengths of 660 nm (red) and 880 nm (infrared).

[0038] The illustrated personal care device 2 also includes a user control unit 20 that is operable by the user to operate the personal care device 2 so that a required light-based hair removal or photoepilation treatment is performed on the subject's body (i.e., generation of light pulses by one or more light sources 12). The user control unit 20 can be in the form of a switch, button, touch pad, etc.

[0039] As pointed out above, the personal care device can have several types of sensors, such as the skin contact sensor 16 and the muscle tone sensor 18, for monitoring one or more parameters before or during a light-based hair removal or photoepilation treatment. It is desirable to incorporate one or more cameras or imaging units into the personal care device because those cameras / imaging units can be used to acquire images of the subject, and those images are processed to determine one or more parameters useful for the light-based hair removal or photoepilation treatment, such as whether skin contact exists, muscle tone, determination of the progress / success of the light-based hair removal or photoepilation treatment, and / or determination of the target area of the skin for the light-based hair removal or photoepilation treatment.

[0040] Including a camera / image capturing unit in a personal care device is likely to increase the cost and complexity of such devices (including the manufacture of these devices). For this reason, efforts have been made to use the camera or image capturing unit in a smartphone or other types of consumer electronic devices, such as tablets, smartwatches, laptops, etc. However, a smartphone or other consumer electronic device is typically considered to require the user of the personal care device to manually hold it in an appropriate position to obtain the required image, which can be difficult when the user also has to hold the personal care device by hand.

[0041] The present disclosure addresses these problems and enables a smartphone or other consumer electronic device to be housed and held within or on the surface of a personal care device such that the imaging unit of the consumer electronic device can acquire an image of a body part through a first window or opening in the housing of the personal care device. In particular, the housing member is provided on a part or the surface of the housing of the personal care device, and this housing member is configured to house and hold the consumer electronic device within or on the surface of the personal care device. In some embodiments, the housing member is a recess or includes a recess such that the consumer electronic device is at least partially hidden below the outer surface of the housing, while in other embodiments, the housing member enables the consumer electronic device to be held on the outer surface of the housing of the personal care device.

[0042] FIG. 2 is a view of a personal care device 52 according to an exemplary embodiment having a housing member in the form of a recess for housing and holding a consumer electronic device in the form of a smartphone.

[0043] During use, the personal care device 52 can be held by one or both hands of the user. The personal care device 52 is for use on the body of a subject (e.g., a person or an animal), and is for performing light-based hair removal or photoepilation treatment (photoepilation or IPL) on the body of the subject when the personal care device 52 is in contact with the skin of the subject, which includes inhibiting hair growth.

[0044] The personal care device 52 includes a housing 54 that includes at least a grip portion 55 and a body portion 56. The grip portion 55 is shaped such that the user can hold the personal care device 52 with one or both hands. The body portion 56 has a first end 58 (also referred to herein as the "front end 58") that is to be placed in contact with the skin of the subject when attempting to perform light-based hair removal or photoepilation treatment on the body or skin of the subject.

[0045] The personal care device 52 includes components suitable for performing light-based hair removal or photoepilation treatment. Similar to the personal care device 2 shown in FIG. 1, the personal care device 52 is configured to perform light-based hair removal or photoepilation treatment using light or light pulses, and for this purpose, the personal care device 52 includes one or more light sources configured to generate light pulses that are to be applied to the skin of the subject. The one or more light sources can be arranged within the housing 54 (e.g., within the body portion 56) such that the light pulses generated by the one or more light sources are radiated from the first end 58 towards the skin.

[0046] The personal care device 52 may also include a user control unit 59 that is operable by the user to operate the personal care device 52 such that the required light-based hair removal or photoepilation treatment is performed on the body of the subject (i.e., generation of light pulses by the one or more light sources 12). The user control unit 59 can be in the form of a switch, button, touch pad, etc.

[0047] The housing 54, in this example the body portion 56, includes a receiving member 60 in the form of a recess configured to receive and hold a consumer electronic device within or on the surface of the personal care device 52. The recess 60 is thus shaped to receive at least a portion or all of the consumer electronic device 62 such that the consumer electronic device is substantially integral with (and moves with) the personal care device 52 and is gripped (held) within or on the surface of the personal care device 52. For this purpose, the recess is configured and shaped to receive the consumer electronic device 62 in a position where it is at least partially hidden within the housing 54.

[0048] It is contemplated that any commonly available consumer electronic device having one or more imaging units can be used in conjunction with the personal care device 52, and for this purpose the receiving member 60 is shaped or sized sufficiently large to receive a commonly available consumer electronic device. Typically, suitable consumer electronic devices, such as smartphones and tablets, are generally rectangular (cuboid) in shape, and thus the recess 60 may have a rectangular opening so as to be able to receive a generally rectangular-shaped consumer electronic device within the recess 60. The recess 60 may be deep enough such that the upper surface of the consumer electronic device is generally flush with the outer surface of the housing 54 (i.e., generally flush), or the upper surface of the consumer electronic device may be above (i.e., partially hidden) or below (i.e., completely hidden) the outer surface of the housing 54.

[0049] One of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the shape and / or size of the recess 60 can be different from that shown in FIG. 2 in order to enable a wider or narrower range of different sized consumer electronic devices to be used in conjunction with the personal care device 52.

[0050] Figure 3 shows the personal care device 52 of FIG. 2, in which a consumer electronic device 62 in the form of a smartphone or a tablet is held within the recess 60. The consumer electronic device 62 has a display screen 64 that is used to display information related to the operation of the consumer electronic device 62. The display screen 64 is on the upper surface of the consumer electronic device 62. The display screen 64 can be a touch screen that can be used to provide input to the consumer electronic device 62.

[0051] The consumer electronic device 62 typically includes one or more imaging units that are disposed on the side opposite to the display screen 64 of the consumer electronic device 62, that is, the imaging units are disposed on the side facing the bottom surface 66 of the recess 60 of the consumer electronic device 62. This surface is referred to herein as the "lower surface" of the consumer electronic device 62.

[0052] As pointed out above, the imaging unit disposed on the lower surface of the consumer electronic device 62 will be used to obtain an image of the body part after or whether a light-based hair removal or photoepilation treatment has been performed. Therefore, the imaging unit of the consumer electronic device 62 needs to be able to obtain an image through the housing 54 of the personal care device 52.

[0053] To enable image acquisition, the housing 54 includes a first window or opening 68 at the front end 58 of the personal care device 52 and a second window or opening 70 at the bottom surface 66 of the recess 60. The first window or opening 68 is not visible in FIGS. 2 or 3, but for example, the first window or opening 68 can be positioned at a location similar to the skin tone sensor 18 in the conventional device shown in FIG. 1 on the first end 58. In embodiments where the first window or opening 68 and / or the second window or opening 70 are windows, the first window 68 and / or the second window 70 can include a translucent or transparent material, for example formed from glass or plastic. In embodiments where the first window or opening 68 and / or the second window or opening 70 are openings, no material (such as glass or plastic) covers the opening. The imaging unit of a consumer electronic device often can protrude from the back of the consumer electronic device (due to, for example, the presence of one or more lens configurations), so it can be beneficial for the second window or opening 70 to be an opening for receiving the protruding imaging unit. The first window or opening 68 and the second window or opening 70 are linked by an optical system (also not visible in FIGS. 2 or 3) within the housing 54 that enables the imaging unit to observe (and acquire an image of) the skin adjacent to or in contact with the first window or opening 68.

[0054] Since the position of the imaging unit on the lower surface of the consumer electronic device 62 is not standardized, the second window or opening 70 can be relatively large to accommodate various possible positions of the imaging unit. In some embodiments, the second window or opening 70 can be approximately the size of the consumer electronic device 62 to accommodate all possible positions of the imaging unit on the consumer electronic device 62. Although the second window or opening 70 is shown as being generally square, it will be understood that the second window or opening 70 can have a shape different from that shown. For example, the second window or opening 70 can be rectangular, elliptical, circular, or any other polygonal shape.

[0055] In embodiments where the receiving member 60 is not a recess (i.e., the consumer electronic device 62 will be held on or near (i.e., at a relatively small distance from) the surface of the housing 54), it will be appreciated that the housing 54 includes a second window or opening 70 in the surface of the housing 54.

[0056] Similar to the personal care device 2 shown in FIG. 1, the personal care device 52 shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 is configured to perform light-based hair removal or photoepilation using light or light pulses. For this purpose, the first end 8 may include an opening 72 disposed in a part or on the surface of the first end 58 of the body portion 56. The opening 72 is adapted to be placed adjacent to or on the surface of (i.e., in contact with) the skin of the subject. The personal care device 52 includes one or more light sources (not shown) configured to generate light pulses that are applied to the skin of the subject through the opening 72 and perform a light-based hair removal or photoepilation treatment. The one or more light sources are disposed within the housing 54 (e.g., within the body portion 56) such that light pulses are provided from the one or more light sources through the opening 72. The opening 72 may be in the form of an opening or window at the first end 58 of the housing 54 and may include an optical waveguide that is transmissive or semi-transmissive to the light pulses (i.e., the light pulses can pass through the optical waveguide).

[0057] In some embodiments, the opening 72 and the first window or opening 68 are separate, which means that the imaging unit of the consumer electronic device 62 acquires an image through a window / opening that is different from the one that serves as the passage for applying light or light pulses. In this case, the acquired image may be of the skin adjacent to or contiguous with the area of the skin where the light-based hair removal or photoepilation treatment will be performed at the current position of the personal care device 52.

[0058] In an alternative embodiment, the aperture 72 is the first window or opening 68, which means that the imaging unit of the consumer electronic device 62 acquires an image through the same window / opening that serves as a passage for applying light or light pulses. In these embodiments, the optical system may be such that the imaging unit acquires an image through a first portion of the first window or opening 68, and the light or light pulse is applied to the skin through a second (different) portion of the first window or opening 68. Alternatively, the optical system may be such that the imaging unit acquires an image and the light or light pulse is applied to the skin generally through the first window or opening 68 or the same portion of the first window or opening 68, which means that the imaging unit can acquire an image of the same portion of the skin to which the light or light pulse is applied. More generally, in these embodiments, a light-based hair removal or photoepilation treatment can be performed on a part of the body through or via the first window or opening 68, and the imaging unit of the consumer electronic device 62 can acquire an image through the same window / opening. This makes it possible to acquire an image of the same portion of the skin to which the light-based hair removal or photoepilation treatment is to be applied.

[0059] In some embodiments, the first window 68 and / or the aperture 72 (if present) generally has a rectangular shape, such that a generally rectangular area is created on the skin that is observable by the imaging unit and / or on which a light-based hair removal or photoepilation treatment can be performed. It will be understood that the first window 68 and / or the aperture 72 can have any other desired shape. For example, the first window 68 and / or the aperture 72 can be square, oval, circular, or any other polygonal shape.

[0060] FIG. 4 is a cutaway view of the personal care device 52 and the consumer electronic device 62 held therein along line A-A' in FIGS. 2 and 3. The personal care device 52 in FIG. 4 is not exactly the same as the personal care device 52 shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, but the same reference numerals are given to similar components and features, and the above description of the personal care device 52 also applies to the personal care device 52 in FIG. 4. In this embodiment, the second window or opening 70 is an opening, but it will be understood that this may alternatively be a window (e.g., including a transparent or translucent material).

[0061] As such, FIG. 4 shows the consumer electronic device 62 held by the receiving member 60, and also shows the first window or opening 68 (in the form of an opening) at the first end 58 of the personal care device 52. The personal care device 52 is shown adjacent to an area of the skin 74 where the personal care device 52 can perform light-based hair removal or hair reduction treatment. FIG. 4 shows the lower surface 76 of the consumer electronic device 62 and the imaging unit 78 of the consumer electronic device 62. In this embodiment, the first window or opening 68 is shown as an opening, but it will be understood that this may alternatively be a window (e.g., including a transparent or translucent material). Further still, this embodiment is shown as having a receiving member in the form of a recess 60, but the receiving member can alternatively hold the consumer electronic device 62 on the surface of the housing 54, and it will be understood that the second window or opening 70 will be a window or opening in the surface of the housing 54.

[0062] The second window or opening 70 shown in FIG. 4 is relatively larger than that shown in FIG. 2, which enables the personal care device 52 to be used with a consumer electronic device with a wider range of positions of the imaging unit 78.

[0063] An optical system 80 that links the first window or opening 68 and the second window or opening 70 is shown within the housing 54, which is configured to enable the imaging unit 78 to observe (and acquire an image of) the skin 74 adjacent to or in contact with the first window or opening 68. In the illustrated embodiment, the optical system 80 comprises at least one mirror 82 that is arranged and oriented such that the imaging unit 78 can observe an area of the skin 74. Since the plane of the consumer electronic device 62 and also the imaging plane of the imaging unit 78 are generally perpendicular to the plane of the first window or opening 68 (or perpendicular to the plane of the skin 74 at the first window or opening 68), the plane of the mirror 82 is oriented at an angle of approximately 45° with respect to the consumer electronic device 62 and the first window or opening 68. Although the optical system 80 shown in FIG. 4 is quite simple, those skilled in the art will understand that more complex optical systems (e.g., comprising multiple mirrors and / or other optical components such as lenses and prisms) may be used.

[0064] The individual positions of the imaging unit 78 on the lower surface 76 of the consumer electronic device 62 are unique to the consumer electronic device (i.e., different between models and devices), so there may not be a single position or location of the mirror 82 (or more generally, the optical system 80) that allows the imaging unit 78 of any given consumer electronic device 62 to observe the area of the skin 74 through the first window or opening 68. Thus, in some embodiments, the optical system 80 is adjustable to accommodate the various positions of the imaging unit 78 on different types of consumer electronic devices 62. For example, as indicated by arrow 84, the mirror 82 in the optical system 80 can be configured to be adjustable in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the first window or opening 68 (i.e., towards or away from the first window or opening 68). In another or further example, the mirror 82 in the optical system 80 can be configured to be adjustable in a direction parallel to the plane of the first window or opening 68 (i.e., lateral with respect to the first window or opening 68). This is illustrated by arrows 85a and 85b. The optical system 80 may thus include one or more guides or rails along which the mirror 82 or other optical components are moved. The optical system 80 can be manually adjustable by the user, for example, by the user using one or more user interface components (such as switches, dials, controls shown on the touch screen of the consumer electronic device 62, etc.) to perform the adjustment, or the optical system 80 can be automatically adjusted by the personal care device 52 or the consumer electronic device 62, for example, by activating one or more motors or other actuators to move the optical system 80 (or one or more of its optical components) to an appropriate position. Such a mechanism can have a mechanism similar to the actuators and / or zoom structures of conventional digital cameras.

[0065] In some embodiments, the optical system 80 can include one or more lenses configured to enable or assist the imaging unit 78 in obtaining a properly focused image of the skin 74.

[0066] When the first window or opening 68 is positioned to abut the skin 74, it may be difficult for the imaging unit 78 to obtain a good image of the skin 74 due to poor light conditions. For this reason, in some embodiments, the optical system 80 enables the flash component of the consumer electronic device 62, or other light source component of the consumer electronic device 62, to illuminate the skin 74 adjacent to the first window or opening 68 when the imaging unit 78 attempts to obtain an image of the skin 74.

[0067] In an alternative embodiment, the personal care device 2 may include one or more light sources 86 that are used to illuminate the skin 74 adjacent to the first window or opening 68 when the imaging unit 78 attempts to obtain an image. FIG. 4 shows two light sources 86 disposed near the first window or opening 68. The light sources 86 can be light emitting diodes (LEDs), incandescent lamps, halogen lamps, and the like. Typically, the light sources 86 are different from any light sources used to perform light-based hair removal treatments (such as photoepilation), but in some embodiments, the light sources used to perform light-based hair removal treatments may be used to illuminate the skin 74 when an image is to be obtained.

[0068] As pointed out above, the recess 60 is shaped to accommodate at least a part or all of the consumer electronic device 62 and grip (hold) it within or on the surface of the personal care device 52. The recess 60 can be shaped or configured such that when the consumer electronic device 62 is received within the recess 60, it holds the device 62 in a predetermined position. For example, at least a part of the wall of the recess 60 can be shaped or gradually tapered inwardly so that the consumer electronic device 62 can be gripped by friction against the wall of the recess 60. In an alternative embodiment, the recess 60 or the personal care device 52 can more generally include a retention mechanism that enables holding consumer electronic devices 62 of various sizes within the recess 60. The retention mechanism can be configured to hold the consumer electronic device 62 in a fixed position relative to the housing 54 within the recess 60. Some examples of suitable retention mechanisms include one or more straps, a retention system using a surface fastener, one or more protrusions (for enabling friction fitting), one or more clips, one or more clamps, and the like. Similarly, in embodiments where the receiving member 60 holds the consumer electronic device 62 on or near the surface of the housing 54, the receiving member 60 can be shaped such that when the consumer electronic device 62 is received on or near the surface, it is gripped in a predetermined position. The receiving member can include a retention mechanism that enables holding consumer electronic devices 62 of various sizes in a fixed position relative to the housing 54 by the receiving member. Some examples of suitable retention mechanisms include one or more straps, a retention system using a surface fastener, one or more protrusions (for enabling friction fitting), one or more clips, one or more clamps, and the like.

[0069] FIG. 4 shows another embodiment of a retaining mechanism in the form of a cover plate 88 that can move or remove a consumer electronic device 62 so that it can be placed in the recess 60, and then move or reinstall at least a portion of the consumer electronic device 62 to cover it within or on the surface of the personal care device 52. The cover plate 88 can be shaped to substantially cover only the border or bezel portion of the consumer electronic device 62, i.e., the portion around the display screen 64 of the consumer electronic device 62. Alternatively (which may depend on the size of the consumer electronic device 62), the cover plate 88 may cover some or all of the display screen 64. The cover plate 88 can be formed of any suitable material or combination of materials, such as metal, plastic, etc.

[0070] In some embodiments, considering that the sizes of consumer electronic devices 62 that can be accommodated within the recess 60 vary, there may be various cover plates 88 suitable for consumer electronic devices 62 of various types and / or various sizes. In this case, when the consumer electronic device 62 is installed within the recess 60, a cover plate 88 suitable for holding the consumer electronic device 62 in place is selected from the set of cover plates 88.

[0071] Figures 5(a) and 5(b) are cutaway views of a portion of the personal care device 52 showing the use of cover plates 88 of different sizes. Figure 5 is a personal care device 52 generally corresponding to the personal care device 52 shown in Figures 3 and 4. In Figure 5(a), the consumer electronic device 62-1 is relatively small, and there is a gap 90 between the edge of the consumer electronic device 62-1 and the wall of the recess 60. Therefore, the cover plate 88-1 used in this case is shaped to hold the smaller-sized consumer electronic device 90-1 in a predetermined position within the recess 60. In Figure 5(b), the consumer electronic device 62-2 is larger and fills most of the recess 60 (i.e., there is only a small gap 92 between the edge of the consumer electronic device 62-2 and the wall of the recess 60). Therefore, the cover plate 88-2 used in this case is shaped to hold the larger-sized consumer electronic device 90-2 in a predetermined position within the recess 60. Furthermore, since the larger-sized consumer electronic device 62-2 is thicker, the cover plate 88-2 can be made thinner than the cover plate 88-1 to reduce the amount by which the cover plate 88-2 protrudes from the surface of the personal care device 52.

[0072] In some embodiments, although not shown in Figures 2 through 5, the personal care device 52 may include a control circuit within the housing 54 for controlling one or more operations of the personal care device 52, such as performing a light-based hair removal or hair depilation treatment. The control circuit may be implemented in a number of ways using software and / or hardware to perform the various functions described herein. In some embodiments, the control circuit may comprise a processing unit. In some embodiments, the control circuit may comprise a memory unit capable of storing data, information, and / or signals used by the control circuit when controlling the operation of the personal care device 52.

[0073] In some embodiments, the control circuit, or more generally the personal care device 52, includes an interface circuit within the housing 54 that is configured to enable communication with (at least) a consumer electronic device 62. The interface circuit is not shown in FIGS. 2 through 5. The interface circuit may be configured to enable a data connection and / or data exchange with other devices including any one or more of a consumer electronic device 62, a server, a database, and a sensor. The connection may be direct (e.g., via the Internet) or indirect, and thus the interface circuit may enable a connection between the personal care device 52 and a network (e.g., the Internet) via any desired wired or wireless connection protocol, or a direct connection between the personal care device 52 and a consumer electronic device 62. For example, the interface circuit may operate using WiFi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, or any cellular communication protocol (including but not limited to Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS), Long Term Evolution (LTE), LTE-Advanced, etc.). In a particular example, the interface circuit may enable the personal care device 52 and the consumer electronic device 62 to communicate using a short-range communication protocol such as WiFi, Bluetooth, or Zigbee. In another particular example, in the case of a wired connection, the interface circuit may include a socket or plug, such as a USB plug or socket, to enable a wired connection with the consumer electronic device 62. In the case of a wireless connection, the interface circuit (and thus the personal care device 52) may include one or more antennas suitable for transmission / reception via a transmission medium (e.g., air).The interface circuit may be part of the control circuit, or may be connected to the control circuit to enable the interface circuit to provide information or data received to the control circuit and / or transmit information or data from the control circuit by the interface circuit.

[0074] In some embodiments, certain control functions or operations of the personal care device 52 (e.g., changing settings related to light-based hair removal or depilation treatment, activating light-based hair removal or depilation treatment, etc.) can be performed by the control circuit. However, in other embodiments, certain control functions or operations of the personal care device 52 may be performed by the consumer electronic device 62, for example, by the consumer electronic device 62 executing a suitable software application (app). The application may provide a user interface suitable for adjusting or controlling the settings and / or functions of the personal care device 52 to the user of the personal care device 52 on the display screen 64, and the consumer electronic device 62 can communicate these settings and / or functions to the personal care device 52 via the interface circuit, and the control circuit in the personal care device 52 can enable these settings or functions. In this way, the complexity of the control circuit in the personal care device 52 can be reduced, and instead, much of the processing required to operate the personal care device 52 can be performed by the consumer electronic device 62.

[0075] In some embodiments, the personal care device 52 may include a wireless charging circuit positioned adjacent to (typically, beneath) the bottom surface 66 of the recess 60. The wireless charging circuit may be used to enable wireless charging of a wireless charging-enabled consumer electronic device 62 housed within the recess 60. Alternatively or additionally, the wireless charging circuit may be used to enable wireless charging of the personal care device 52 by a wireless charging-enabled consumer electronic device 62 held within the recess 60. In either case, the wireless charging circuit within the personal care device 52 may comprise one or more coils or similar structures that enable an inductive coupling with corresponding components within the consumer electronic device 62.

[0076] As noted above, the images acquired by the imaging unit 78 may be processed to determine one or more parameters useful for light-based hair removal or photoepilation treatments, such as whether the personal care device 52 is in contact with the skin (and, in some cases, whether the skin contact is good or sufficiently good for light-based hair removal or photoepilation treatments), skin tone, the progress / success of the light-based hair removal or photoepilation treatment, and / or the determination of the target skin area for the light-based hair removal or photoepilation treatment. The processing of the images can be performed by the consumer electronic device 62 and the results shared with or transmitted to the personal care device 52, or the images can be shared with or transmitted to the personal care device 52 and the personal care device 52 can process the images.

[0077] Accordingly, by enabling the consumer electronic device 62 to be housed and held within the personal care device 52 for light-based hair removal or photoepilation, the imaging unit 78 of the consumer electronic device 62, and optionally other sensors and / or functions of the consumer electronic device 62, can be used. For example, other sensors and / or functions of the consumer electronic device 62 that can be used by the personal care device 52 include a display screen 64 (including any touch screen functionality of the display screen 64), an ambient light sensor, a position and / or orientation sensor (e.g., an accelerometer and / or a gyroscope), a satellite positioning system receiver (e.g., GPS), an altimeter / barometric pressure sensor, a processing circuit (CPU), network connectivity, and a microphone.

[0078] In some embodiments, the skin tone sensor 18 included in the conventional personal care device 2 is omitted, and instead, an image from the imaging unit 78 can be processed to determine the skin tone.

[0079] In some embodiments, the skin contact sensor 16 included in the conventional personal care device 2 is omitted, and instead, an image from the imaging unit 78 can be processed to determine skin contact and, optionally, the quality of the skin contact.

[0080] In some embodiments, by combining an image from the imaging unit 78 with the measurement results from the position sensor of the consumer electronic device 62, it may be possible to determine the position of the personal care device 52 relative to the subject or body, and provide feedback to the user of the personal care device 52 regarding where on the skin the personal care device 52 should be placed. This guidance can avoid missing areas of the skin that are a major problem in some types of light-based hair removal or photoepilation treatments where the area treated by the most recent light pulse is not visible, leading to a more effective light-based hair removal or photoepilation treatment.

[0081] In some embodiments, the processing of the images from the imaging unit 78 can be used to check whether the body skin is ready for performing light-based hair removal or photoepilation treatment. For example, in the case of photoepilation, the body hair should be shaved or waxed before any treatment, and the image processing can enable the detection of the presence of body hair.

[0082] In some embodiments, the processing of the images from the imaging unit 78 and the comparison with the images of the same part of the body / skin acquired previously can be used to provide feedback on the progress of the light-based hair removal or photoepilation treatment.

[0083] In some embodiments, the network connectivity function of the consumer electronic device 62 can be used to upload the acquired images to a server capable of analyzing the images and return a report to the consumer electronic device 62 and / or the personal care device 52. This enables the use of more complex image processing algorithms for analyzing the images.

[0084] In some embodiments, by using the display screen 64 / touch screen of the consumer electronic device 62 as the user interface of the personal care device 52 (the consumer electronic device 52 runs a suitable application), an improved or enhanced user interface can be provided for the personal care device 52.

[0085] In some embodiments, the display screen 64 can be used to display the images from the imaging unit 78 when they are acquired, thereby showing a "live view" of the skin. In some embodiments, guidance information for the user, such as arrows, indicating how the user should move the personal care device 52 for the next light-based hair removal or photoepilation treatment can also be displayed on the display screen 64 or overlaid on the displayed images.

[0086] In some embodiments, the microphone of the consumer electronic device 62 and suitable processing of the recorded audio can be used to enable voice control of the personal care device 52.

[0087] In some embodiments of the light hair removal treatment, the measurement results by the ambient light sensor of the consumer electronic device 62 can be used to determine whether the ambient light level is suitable for performing the light hair removal treatment. For example, performing the light hair removal treatment when it is overly sunny should be avoided because it may affect the accuracy of the skin tone measurement.

[0088] In some embodiments of the light hair removal treatment, by using a position sensor (e.g., GPS) and / or an altitude sensor, automatic triggering of the light pulse can be performed when the personal care device 52 is at an appropriate position on the skin, and / or the ambient air pressure can be taken into account in triggering the light pulse (because the available amount of air cooling and the pulse rate depend on the ambient pressure).

[0089] In some embodiments, the color sensing characteristics of the imaging unit 78 can vary between consumer electronic devices 62 (including between consumer electronic devices 74 of the same model), so calibration of the color performance of the imaging unit 78 may be important or useful. This can be done, for example, by acquiring an image of a color calibration card having areas of various colors and processing the image to determine initial color and intensity calibration. These embodiments are particularly useful when an image is processed to determine skin tone. Such a calibration card can include one or more colors and gray scales depending on the complexity of the algorithm of the skin tone sensor. For example, some conventional personal care devices use a blue LED to detect skin tone, in which case only blue calibration would be required. If more colors are used in the skin tone detection algorithm, these colors also need to be calibrated and included in the color calibration card.

[0090] Thus, there is provided a personal care device for light-based body hair removal or photoepilation that enables easier use of a smartphone or other similar type of consumer electronic device together with the personal care device, and in particular enables an imaging unit of the consumer electronic device to acquire an image of the skin of a subject even when the consumer electronic device is housed and held within the personal care device.

[0091] In practicing the principles and techniques described herein, those skilled in the art will be able to understand and realize variations of the disclosed embodiments by considering the drawings, the present disclosure, and the appended claims. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the singular does not exclude the plural. A single processor or other unit may perform the functions of several items recited in the claims. The mere fact that certain means are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these means cannot be used advantageously. A computer program may be stored or distributed on a suitable medium, such as an optical storage medium or a solid-state medium, supplied together with or as part of other hardware, but may also be distributed in other forms, such as via the Internet or other wired or wireless electrical communication systems. Any reference signs in the claims should not be construed as limiting their scope.

Claims

1. A personal care device for performing light-based hair removal or photoepilation treatment on a subject's body, the personal care device comprising: a housing including a first window or opening; a light source for generating light for performing the light-based hair removal or photoepilation treatment, the light source being disposed within the housing such that the light emitted by the light source irradiates a part of the body; a receiving member provided on a part or surface of the housing for receiving and holding a consumer electronic device within or on the personal care device; an optical system within the housing for enabling an imaging unit of the consumer electronic device, when held by the receiving member, to acquire an image of a part of the body through the first window or opening. A personal care device comprising the above.

2. The personal care device according to claim 1, wherein the optical system comprises one or more mirrors and / or lenses.

3. The personal care device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the optical system is adjustable to accommodate various positions of imaging units of different types of consumer electronic devices.

4. The personal care device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the optical system is adjustable in at least one of a direction perpendicular to the plane of the first window or opening and a direction parallel to the plane of the first window or opening.

5. The personal care device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the optical system enables light from a light source of the consumer electronic device to pass through the first window or opening.

6. The personal care device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the receiving member is configured such that when the consumer electronic device is received and held within or on the personal care device, the imaging plane of the imaging unit of the consumer electronic device is perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the plane of the first window or opening.

7. The personal care device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the receiving member is provided on the housing and comprises a recess configured and shaped to receive the consumer electronic device within the housing in a position where the consumer electronic device is at least partially hidden from view.

8. The personal care device according to claim 7, wherein the recess has a shape that enables accommodation and retention of consumer electronic devices having various sizes within the recess.

9. The personal care device according to claim 7 or 8, further comprising a holding mechanism for holding the consumer electronic device in a fixed position with respect to the housing within the recess.

10. The personal care device according to claim 9, wherein the holding mechanism holds consumer electronic devices having various sizes within the recess.

11. The personal care device according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the holding mechanism includes a cover plate installed to cover a part of the consumer electronic device when the consumer electronic device is accommodated within the recess, thereby holding the consumer electronic device within or on the surface of the personal care device.

12. The personal care device according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the holding mechanism includes a plurality of cover plates, each cover plate being installed to cover a part of a consumer electronic device having a corresponding size when the consumer electronic device is accommodated within the recess, and each cover plate holding the consumer electronic device having the corresponding size within or on the surface of the personal care device.

13. The personal care device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the personal care device performs light-based hair removal or photoepilation treatment on a part of the body adjacent to the first window or opening.

14. The personal care device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, further comprising an opening, and the personal care device performs light-based hair removal or photoepilation treatment on a part of the body adjacent to the opening.

Images