Gray Hair Detection and Treatment System

Abstract

A system for coloring hair includes at least one cartridge containing a hair color, a hair color device having one or more chambers configured to receive the at least one cartridge, and a processor communicatively coupled to the hair color device, the processor configured to visualize an image of a user's hair, detect one or more hairs within a predetermined color range in the image through an imaging process, and apply hair color to the one or more hairs within the predetermined color range through an applicator on the hair color device.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 304457, filed January 28, 2022, and French Provisional Application No. 2201845, filed March 3, 2022, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety for all purposes. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described herein in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0004] As people age, their hair often begins to turn gray or white. It can be difficult to determine where gray hair is, especially for people with light-colored hair. Furthermore, when people dye their hair, their natural hair color eventually begins to show at the roots. Therefore, there is a need for a system for diagnosing gray or natural hair color and applying dye to specific, localized areas. Described herein are exemplary devices and methods capable of detecting gray hair and locally applying hair dye to gray hair.

[0005] In one aspect, a system for coloring hair includes at least one cartridge containing a hair color, a hair color device configured to accept the at least one cartridge, and a processor communicatively coupled to the hair color device. The processor is configured to visualize an image of a user's hair, set a probability threshold for undesired hair color, assign to each pixel of the image a probability of being desired hair, undesired hair, or scalp, and apply hair color via an applicator on the hair color device to one or more pixels that exceed the probability threshold for undesired hair color. Desirable hair is a desired color, and undesired hair is an undesired color.

[0006] In another aspect, a method of coloring hair using a system according to any preceding claim is disclosed, comprising the steps of visualizing an image of a user's hair, setting a probability threshold for undesired hair color, assigning to each pixel of the image a probability of being desired hair, undesired hair, or scalp, and applying hair color via an applicator on a hair color device to one or more pixels that exceed the probability threshold for undesired hair color, where the desired hair is a desired hair color and the undesired hair is an undesired hair color. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] The foregoing aspects and many of the attendant advantages of this invention will become more readily appreciated as the same becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0008] [Figure 1] 1A to 1B show an example of a hair color device according to the present technology.

[0009] [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is an internal view of an example of a hair color device according to the present technology.

[0010] [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a flowchart of a method for coloring hair in accordance with the present technology.

[0011] [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is an example of a dashboard configured for use in connection with the hair color devices described herein in accordance with the present technology. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] While exemplary embodiments have been shown and described, it will be appreciated that various changes can be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0013] Described herein are systems and methods for detecting undesirable colored hair and applying hair dye to localized hair or areas. In some embodiments, the undesirable color is gray or white hair. In some embodiments, the undesirable color is a user's natural hair color. In some embodiments, a user can move a hair color device over the user's hair to detect the undesirable hair. In some embodiments, the hair color device includes an IR camera and an optical sensor to capture images of the user's hair as the device is moved over the user's hair. In some embodiments, the hair color device can detect undesirable hair, desired hair, and the user's scalp using an imaging process. In some embodiments, the hair color device then applies hair color to the undesirable hair based on the processed image of the user's hair. In one embodiment, a user activates a user input to direct the hair color device to apply hair color.

[0014] In one embodiment, the hair color device is communicatively coupled to a communication device, such as a smartphone. In some embodiments, a user can instruct the hair color device to begin capturing images or applying hair color via an interface on the communication device. In some embodiments, the hair color device or communication device can notify the user that hair color is being applied.

[0015] In some embodiments, the hair color device is configured to receive one or more cartridges containing hair color. In some embodiments, the hair color is a semi-permanent, demi-permanent, permanent, or wash-off hair color. In some embodiments, the cartridge further contains a hair color treatment, such as an oxidizing agent or a toner. In some embodiments, a second cartridge contains the hair color treatment. In some embodiments, the hair color device applies the hair color treatment before applying the hair dye. In some embodiments, a user changes cartridges and applies the hair color treatment before applying the hair dye.

[0016] 1A-1B are an exemplary hair color device 100 in accordance with the present technology. In some embodiments, the hair color device 100 has a form factor similar to a hairbrush or comb. The hair color device 100 can include a body 105, a cartridge 110, and an applicator 190. In some embodiments, the hair color device 100 also has a handle 125. In some embodiments, the handle 125 and the body 105 are removably attached, while in other embodiments, the handle 125 and the body 105 are integral. In some embodiments, the hair color device 100 includes a user input 135.

[0017] As shown in Figure 1A, the hair color device 100 may include a cartridge 110. In some embodiments, the hair color device 100 may have two or more cartridges 110. In some embodiments, the cartridge 110 may be attached to the body 105 of the hair color device 100, as illustrated in Figure 1A, while in some embodiments, the cartridge may be located inside the body 105 of the hair color device 100, as illustrated in Figure 2. In still other embodiments, the cartridge 110 may be located in another portion of the hair color device 100, such as inside or on the handle 125.

[0018] In some embodiments, the cartridge 110 contains a hair color. In some embodiments, the hair color is a semi-permanent hair dye, while in other embodiments, the hair color may be a wash-out hair dye. In some embodiments, the hair color is a permanent hair color or a demi-permanent hair color. In some embodiments, the system further includes a second cartridge 110 containing a hair color treatment. In some embodiments, the hair color treatment is a toner. In some embodiments, the hair color treatment is an oxidizing agent. In some embodiments, the hair color device 100 can accept two or more cartridges 110, one for the hair color and another for the hair color treatment. In some embodiments, both the hair dye and the hair color treatment may be in the same cartridge 110, but are separated into chambers to prevent mixing. In some embodiments, each chamber may be lined with a separate applicator 190 so they can be dispensed separately. In some embodiments, the hair treatment is applied before the hair color is applied.

[0019] In some embodiments, the cartridge 110 has an identifier, such as a QR code or RFID tag, that allows the hair color device 100 to identify the color of the hair dye, the type of hair dye, or the type of hair color treatment. In some embodiments, the color of the hair dye in the cartridge 110 can signal the desired hair color, as shown in FIG.

[0020] 1A as a button, the user input 135 can take any number of forms, including a switch or a touch-sensitive capacitive button. In operation, a user can activate the user input to initiate the imaging process described in detail herein. In some embodiments, the user can further activate the user input to instruct the device to apply a hair treatment and / or hair color.

[0021] In some embodiments, the hair color device 100 includes a plurality of bristles 115. In some embodiments, the bristles are configured to be brushed through a user's hair. In operation, the plurality of bristles 115 can be brushed through the user's hair to tangle and smooth the user's hair, separate the user's hair into manageable sections for imaging, and provide a therapeutic massage to the user's scalp.

[0022] In some embodiments, such as those illustrated by FIGS. 1A-1B, an applicator 190 is positioned between the bristles. In some embodiments, the applicator is a mechanical pump. In some embodiments, the applicator is a solenoid pump. In some embodiments, the applicator is a microfluidic pump. In some embodiments, the applicator is a mechanical pump. In some embodiments, there are two or more applicators 190 on the hair color device 100. In some embodiments, all applicators 190 dispense the same hair color at different locations. In some embodiments, the applicators 190 can dispense different formulations, i.e., one applicator 190 dispenses a hair color and another applicator 190 dispenses a hair color treatment. In some embodiments, a user can attach a hair color treatment cartridge to the hair color device and apply the treatment. The cartridge is then replaced with a hair color cartridge so that the same applicator dispenses both the hair color treatment and the hair color device. In operation, as a user brushes the hair color device 100 through their hair, hair color is dispensed by the applicator onto one or more hairs having an undesired hair color, which can provide a method of dyeing localized, precise sections of the user's hair.

[0023] 2 is an internal view of an exemplary hair color device 100 in accordance with the present technology. In some embodiments, FIG. 2 is an internal view of the hair color device 100 of FIGS. 1A-1B. In some embodiments, the hair color device 100 has a form factor similar to a comb. In some embodiments, the hair color device 100 includes a cartridge 110, an accelerometer 120, a gyroscope 130, a contact sensor 150, a processor 160, contact pins 165, a battery 170, an IR camera 175, a light source 180, and an optical system 185 disposed in a body 105 of the hair color device 100.

[0024] The illustrated hair color device 100 includes an accelerometer 120 and a gyroscope 130. In some embodiments, the accelerometer 120 and the gyroscope 130 are communicatively coupled to a processor 160. In operation, the accelerometer 120 measures vibrations or accelerations of the hair color device in the x, y, and z directions to determine the orientation of the hair color device 100. The gyroscope 130 similarly detects the angular velocity and orientation of the hair color device 100 during operation.

[0025] In some embodiments, the hair color device 100 includes a contact sensor 150 communicatively coupled to the processor 160. In some embodiments, the contact sensor is also communicatively coupled to contact pins 165. In some embodiments, the contact sensor 150, communicatively coupled to the contact pins 165 on the hair color device 100, is configured to sense proximity to a user's hair. In some embodiments, the contact pins 165 are provided on one or more of the plurality of bristles 115. In operation, as a user brushes the hair color device 100 through their hair, the contact pins 165 detect proximity between the plurality of bristles 115 and the user's scalp (not depicted in FIG. 2 ). The contact pins can communicate this proximity to the contact sensor 150, which in turn can communicate to the processor 160, which determines whether the plurality of bristles 115 are sufficiently close to the scalp to apply hair color. 2, the hair color device 100 can have any number of contact pins 165, including a contact pin 165 on each bristles 115 of the plurality of bristles on the hair color device 100. In some embodiments, each individual contact pin 165 provides a distinct proximity so that hair color is applied only to areas that are in sufficient contact with the scalp by one or more applicators 190.

[0026] In some embodiments, the hair color device 100 includes a battery 170. While the battery 170 will be further described, the hair color device may include other power sources, such as, for example, a rechargeable battery. In one embodiment, the battery 170 is a rechargeable battery 170 configured to receive power from an external power source, for example, when the power of the rechargeable battery 170 is depleted. In another embodiment, the battery 170 is a disposable battery 170. In one embodiment, the usable life of the disposable battery 170 corresponds to the intended use interval of the hair color device 100. As the hair color device 100 is used over time, it may become worn, dirty, or otherwise no longer suitable to provide the intended benefits. In this regard, when the disposable battery 170 is depleted and no longer has power, the hair color device 100 may be configured to notify the user to prepare the hair color device 100 for replacement, cleaning, reconditioning, etc.

[0027] In some embodiments, hair color device 100 further includes an IR camera 175, a light source 180, and an optical system 185 communicatively coupled to processor 160. In some embodiments, light source 180 and IR camera 175 are communicatively coupled to optical system 185. In some embodiments, hair color device 100 further includes an optical system configured to determine whether lighting conditions are suitable for visualizing a user's hair. In some embodiments, optical system 185 can sense whether a user is in suitable lighting conditions for the IR camera to detect undesirable colored hairs on the user's head, as described in more detail in FIG. 3 . If it is determined that the user is not in suitable lighting conditions, light source 180 can illuminate the user's hair to better detect undesirable colored hairs. If this is still not bright enough to detect the user's hair, such as when the user is in a dark room, hair color device 100 may notify the user to move to another location. After it is determined that lighting conditions are sufficient to detect the user's hair, the IR camera can visualize an image of the user's hair.

[0028] As a user brushes or combs their hair with the hair color device 100, the IR camera visualizes an image of the user's hair. The processor can then assign to each pixel of each image a probability that it is either (1) desired hair, (2) undesired hair, or (3) scalp based on the color of each pixel. In some embodiments, the desired hair is hair that is the desired color the user wants their hair to be. In some embodiments, the desired color is the color of the hair color in the cartridge 110 of the hair color device 100. In some embodiments, the user can select the desired hair color using either a user interface on the hair color device or a separate communication device communicatively coupled to the hair color device. In some embodiments, the undesired hair is hair that is an undesired color. In some embodiments, the undesired color is selected from gray or white. In some embodiments, the undesired color is the user's natural hair color, such as when the user's hair roots grow out after dyeing their hair.

[0029] In some embodiments, processor 160 sets a probability threshold for determining whether to apply hair color to pixels that have a probability of being undesirable hair. In some embodiments, the probability threshold is hard-coded into processor 160. In some embodiments, the probability threshold may be adjusted according to user preferences or needs. For example, a higher threshold may be required when the desired hair color and the undesirable hair color are not very distinguishable from each other, such as when a user is dyeing dark brown hair black. Similarly, a lower threshold may be required when the desired hair color and the undesirable hair color are significantly different from each other, such as when a user is dyeing blonde hair black. In some embodiments, the probability threshold is set at 85%, 90%, 95%, or 100%. If the probability assigned to a pixel exceeds the probability threshold, processor 160 instructs applicator 190 to apply hair color to this particular area. In some embodiments, processor 160 can detect one or more hair strands based on line segments of the pixel. In this case, if the average of the pixels within the hair strand exceeds a probability threshold, the processor 160 can instruct the applicator 190 to apply hair color to a particular strand of hair.

[0030] In some embodiments, the hair color device 100 includes a plurality of bristles 115. In some embodiments, the bristles are spaced at variable step distances to separate more or fewer hairs with the bristles 115. In some embodiments, the bristles 115 are hollow. In some embodiments, only one or more bristles 115a, 115b, 115c of the plurality of bristles 115 are hollow. In some embodiments, the one or more bristles 115a, 115b, 115c are disposed on one or more applicators 190 such that when the applicators apply the hair color, the hair color is applied through the one or more bristles 115a, 115b, 115c. Although three bristles 115a, 115b, 115c are shown, any number of bristles (including the entire plurality of bristles 115) may be disposed on one or more applicators 190.

[0031] FIG. 3 is a flowchart of a method for coloring hair in accordance with the present technology. The method begins at block 300. At block 310, the lighting conditions of the location are sensed. The lighting conditions can be sensed with a light sensor. In some embodiments, the light sensor is on the hair color device (such as hair color device 100). In other embodiments, the light sensor is on a communication device such as a smartphone or tablet. In some embodiments, an optical system takes light readings of the surrounding area to ensure visualization of the user's hair, as described herein. In some embodiments, the hair color device includes a light source that illuminates if the optical system detects that the lighting conditions are not appropriate. In some embodiments, the hair color device, the communication device, or both, notify the user to move to a location with more optimal conditions to begin visualization. In some embodiments, the user initiates the light sensor reading by activating a user input on the hair color device or the communication device.

[0032] In block 320, the user's hair is visualized. In some embodiments, the user's hair is visualized with an IR camera on the hair color device, while in other embodiments, the user's hair is visualized with a communication device. In some embodiments, the user can move the hair color device over the hair to sense the entire hair. In some embodiments, the user can select a specific location, such as the roots of the hair, and move the hair color device.

[0033] In block 330, the IR camera visualizes images of the user's hair. A processor can then assign to each pixel in each image a probability of being either (1) desired hair, (2) undesired hair, or (3) scalp. In some embodiments, the processor assigns the probability based on the color of the pixel. In some embodiments, the processor assigns the probability based on a detected segment in the image. In other embodiments, the processor assigns the probability based on both the color of the pixel and the detected segment in the image. As described herein, the desired hair is a desired hair color. The desired hair color may be selected by the user or may be correlated to the color of a hair color in a cartridge in the hair color device. In some embodiments, the undesired hair is hair that is an undesired color. In some embodiments, the undesired color is gray or white. In some embodiments, the undesired color is the user's natural hair color, such as when the user's roots grow out after dyeing their hair. In some embodiments, the undesired hair color is any color different from the desired hair color.

[0034] In some embodiments, processor 160 can set a probability threshold to determine whether to apply hair color to pixels that have a probability of being undesirable hair. In some embodiments, the probability threshold is hard-coded into processor 160. In some embodiments, the probability threshold may be adjusted based on user preference or need. In some embodiments, the probability threshold is set at 85%, 90%, 95%, or 100%. If a pixel exceeds the probability threshold, processor 160 instructs applicator 190 to apply hair color to this particular area. In some embodiments, processor 160 can detect one or more hair strands based on a pixel segment line. In this case, if the average of the pixels within the segment exceeds the probability threshold, processor 160 can instruct applicator 190 to apply hair color to the particular strand of hair.

[0035] Optionally, at block 340, the hair color device senses the user's proximity to the hair using a contact sensor. In some embodiments, the contact sensor senses the user's proximity to the hair to ensure that the hair color is applied only to one or more unwanted hairs. In some embodiments, the user can move the device closer to the hair to ensure that the hair care material is applied to the target area, as described herein. In some embodiments, the hair color device or communication device notifies the user to move the hair color device closer or further away from the hair.

[0036] Optionally, at block 351, the hair color device notifies the user to begin applying the hair color and / or hair color treatment. In some embodiments, the notification is an audible notification. In some embodiments, the notification is a tone or a flashing LED. In some embodiments, the notification is emitted on a communication device instead of the hair color device. Alternatively, at block 352, the hair color device waits to apply the hair color and / or hair color treatment until it receives a command from the user. In some embodiments, the command is given by the user by activating a user input. In some embodiments, the user input is a button, touchpad, or switch. In some embodiments, the command is given using the communication device, such as by the user activating a touchscreen of the communication device in response to a notification or pop-up on the communication device.

[0037] In block 360, a hair color and / or hair color treatment is applied to the user's hair at the detected location. In some embodiments, the user can move the hair color device over the hair to apply the hair color and / or hair color treatment. In some embodiments, block 360 occurs simultaneously with blocks 330 and 340, so that upon detecting one or more hairs and determining that they are in proximity to the user's hair, the hair color device also applies the hair color and / or hair color treatment to the user's hair.

[0038] In operation, a user can move the hair color device over their hair, and the hair color device can detect, for example, any gray hairs that the user may have and immediately apply hair color to the user's gray hairs. Optionally, the user can move the hair color device over their hair multiple times to ensure that all gray hairs are covered with dye.

[0039] At block 370, the method ends.

[0040] Figure 4 is an exemplary dashboard 400 configured for use in connection with a hair color device 100 described herein in accordance with the present technology. In some embodiments, the hair color device 100 is configured to communicatively couple to a smart device, such as a smartphone as illustrated in Figure 4. In some embodiments, the smart device can take the form of a personal computer, tablet, laptop, or the like.

[0041] In some embodiments, the smart device is configured to display the dashboard 400. In some embodiments, the dashboard 400 may be displayed on the hair color device 100 itself.

[0042] In some embodiments, dashboard 400 includes outputs to the user. In some embodiments, the outputs include an indicator of whether gray hairs are present, gray hair coverage (i.e., the percentage of the user's hair that is gray), and gray hair intensity. These outputs should be understood as merely representative, and any type of output may be included.

[0043] In some embodiments, the intensity of gray hair is determined by how light the hair is. For example, a user whose hair has turned gray is considered to have a "high" intensity of gray hair, while a user with darker gray hair is considered to have a "low" intensity of gray hair. In some embodiments, the intensity is determined by how much or how much concentration of hair product needs to be applied to cover the gray hair. In such embodiments, a "high" intensity gray hair is hair that requires more hair product to cover, and a "low" intensity gray hair is hair that requires less hair product.

[0044] In some embodiments, dashboard 400 further includes a set of options. While the options are illustrated as drop-down menus, it should be understood that the options may be arranged and / or displayed in any manner. In some embodiments, the options include a virtual try-on, a button for applying hair color, and product recommendations.

[0045] In some embodiments, virtual try-on allows a user to view a desired hair color for themselves using the camera on their smart device. In some embodiments, virtual try-on allows a user to take a photo of their hair and have the desired color overlaid on the photo. In some embodiments, virtual try-on allows a user to take a real-time image or video using the camera on their smart device and have the color overlaid on the real-time image or video of the user's hair.

[0046] In some embodiments, the hair color application option functions as an actuator for a hair color device (such as hair color device 100). In such embodiments, a user can activate the hair color application option (such as by pressing a button or utilizing a touchscreen) to apply hair color from the hair color device.

[0047] Embodiments disclosed herein may utilize circuitry for purposes such as implementing the techniques and methodologies described herein, operatively connecting two or more components, generating information, determining operating conditions, and / or controlling an appliance, device, or method. Any type of circuitry may be used. In one embodiment, the circuitry may include one or more computing devices, such as a processor (e.g., a microprocessor), a central processor (CPU), a digital signal processor (DSP), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), or any combination thereof, among others, and may include discrete digital circuit elements, analog circuit elements, or electronic circuits, or any combination thereof.

[0048] In one embodiment, the circuitry includes one or more ASICs having multiple predefined logic components. In one embodiment, the circuitry includes one or more FPGAs having multiple programmable logic components. In one embodiment, the circuitry includes a hardware circuit implementation (e.g., an implementation in analog circuitry, an implementation in digital circuitry, etc., and combinations thereof). In one embodiment, the circuitry includes a combination of a circuit and a computer program product having software or firmware instructions stored on one or more computer-readable memories that cooperate to cause the device to perform one or more methodologies or techniques described herein. In one embodiment, the circuitry includes circuitry that requires software, firmware, etc. for operation, such as, for example, a microprocessor or portion of a microprocessor. In one embodiment, the circuitry includes an implementation comprising one or more processors or portions thereof and associated software, firmware, hardware, etc. In one embodiment, the circuitry includes a baseband integrated circuit, an application processor integrated circuit, or similar integrated circuit in a server, cellular network device, other network device, or other computing device. In one embodiment, the circuitry includes one or more remotely located components. In one embodiment, the remotely located components are operably connected via wireless communication. In one embodiment, the remotely located components are operatively connected via one or more receivers, transmitters, transceivers, and the like.

[0049] One embodiment includes one or more data stores that store, for example, instructions or data. Non-limiting examples of the one or more data stores include volatile memory (e.g., random access memory (RAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), etc.), non-volatile memory (e.g., read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), etc.), persistent memory, etc. Further non-limiting examples of the one or more data stores include erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), flash memory, etc. The one or more data stores may be connected to one or more computing devices, for example, by one or more instruction, data, or power buses.

[0050] In one embodiment, the circuitry includes one or more computer-readable medium drives, interface sockets, Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports, memory card slots, etc., and one or more input / output components (e.g., graphical user interfaces, displays, keyboards, keypads, trackballs, joysticks, touchscreens, mice, switches, dials, etc.), as well as any other peripheral devices. In one embodiment, the circuitry includes one or more user input / output components operably connected to at least one computing device to control (electrically, electromechanically, software-implemented, firmware-implemented, or otherwise, or a combination thereof) one or more aspects of the embodiment.

[0051] In one embodiment, the circuitry includes a computer-readable medium drive or memory slot configured to accept a signal-bearing medium (e.g., a computer-readable memory medium, a computer-readable recording medium, etc.). In one embodiment, a program for causing a system to perform any of the disclosed methods may be stored on, for example, a computer-readable recording medium (CRMM), a signal-bearing medium, etc. Non-limiting examples of signal-bearing media include recordable media such as any form of flash memory, magnetic tape, floppy disks, hard disk drives, compact discs (CDs), digital video discs (DVDs), Blu-ray discs, digital tape, computer memory, and transmission-type media such as digital and / or analog communications media (e.g., fiber optic cables, wave guides, wired communications links, wireless communications links (e.g., transmitters, receivers, transceivers, sending logic, receiving logic, etc.)). Further non-limiting examples of signal bearing media include, but are not limited to, DVD-ROM, DVD-RAM, DVD+RW, DVD-RW, DVD-R, DVD+R, CD-ROM, Super Audio CD, CD-R, CD+R, CD+RW, CD-RW, video compact disc, Super Video Disc, flash memory, magnetic tape, magneto-optical disk, minidisc, non-volatile memory card, EEPROM, optical disk, optical storage, RAM, ROM, system memory, web server, and the like.

[0052] The detailed description set forth above in connection with the accompanying drawings, in which like numerals refer to like elements, is intended as a description of various embodiments of the present disclosure and is not intended to represent the only embodiment. Each embodiment described in this disclosure is provided by way of example or illustration only and should not be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments. The illustrative examples provided herein are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure to the precise form disclosed. Likewise, any step described herein may be interchangeable with other steps or combinations of steps to achieve the same or substantially similar results. In general, the embodiments disclosed herein are non-limiting, and the inventors contemplate that other embodiments within the scope of the present disclosure may include structure and functionality from two or more of the specific embodiments illustrated in the figures and described herein.

[0053] In the foregoing description, specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the embodiments disclosed herein may be practiced without embodying all of the specific details. In some instances, well-known process steps have not been described in detail in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuring various aspects of the present disclosure. Furthermore, it will be understood that embodiments of the present disclosure may employ any combination of the features described herein.

[0054] This application may include references to directions such as "vertical," "horizontal," "front," "back," "left," "right," "top," and "bottom." These references, and other similar references herein, are intended to aid in the description and understanding of particular embodiments (such as when an embodiment is positioned for use), and are not intended to limit the disclosure to these orientations or locations.

[0055] The present application may also refer to quantities and numbers. Unless otherwise specified, such quantities and numbers are not intended to be limiting, but rather exemplary of possible quantities or numbers associated with the present application. In this regard, the present application may also use the term "plurality" to refer to a quantity or number. In this regard, the term "plurality" means any number greater than 1, e.g., 2, 3, 4, 5, etc. The terms "about," "approximately," and the like, mean plus or minus 5% of the stated value. The term "based on" means "based at least in part on."

[0056] The principles, representative embodiments, and modes of operation of the present disclosure have been set forth in the foregoing description. However, the aspects of the disclosure intended to be protected should not be construed as limited to the particular embodiments disclosed. Moreover, the embodiments described herein are to be considered illustrative and not restrictive. It is to be understood that variations and modifications may be made, and equivalents employed, by others without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure. Accordingly, all such variations, modifications, and equivalents are expressly intended to be within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as claimed.

Claims

1. 1. A system for coloring hair, the system comprising: at least one cartridge containing a hair color; a hair coloring device configured to receive said at least one cartridge; Infrared (IR) camera, an optical system configured to determine whether lighting conditions are suitable for visualizing the user's hair; and a processor communicatively coupled to the hair color device; The processor: visualizing an image of the user's hair with the IR camera; Set a probability threshold for undesirable hair colors, assigning to each pixel of the image a probability of being a desired hair, an undesired hair, or a scalp; and configured to apply the hair color via an applicator on the hair color device to the one or more pixels that exceed the probability threshold of the undesired hair color; The desired hair is a desired color and the undesired hair is an undesired color.

2. 10. The system of claim 1, The system, wherein the hair coloring device further comprises a plurality of bristles configured to be brushed through the user's hair.

3. 3. The system of claim 2, The system wherein one or more of the plurality of bristles are hollow and are disposed on the applicator, and when the applicator applies hair color, it is applied through the one or more bristles.

4. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, The system wherein the applicator is a piezoelectric pump.

5. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, The system wherein the applicator is a mechanical pump.

6. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, The system, wherein the hair coloring device further comprises a contact sensor communicatively coupled to contact pins on the hair coloring device configured to sense proximity to the user's hair.

7. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, The system wherein the hair color is a semi-permanent hair dye or a wash-out hair dye.

8. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, The system further comprises a second cartridge containing a hair color treatment.

9. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, The system, wherein the hair color is a demi-permanent hair dye or a permanent hair dye.

10. 10. The system of claim 9, The hair color treatment is a toner.

11. 10. The system of claim 9, The hair color treatment is an oxidizing agent.

12. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, The undesirable color is selected from gray or white.

13. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, The undesirable color is the user's natural hair color.

14. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, The desired color is the color of the hair color in the cartridge.

Images