Automatic detection of hair characteristics using a formulation dispensing device

Abstract

In some embodiments, a formulation delivery device comprising a motor and a formulation dispensing assembly is provided. The formulation dispensing assembly comprises a reciprocating nozzle assembly actuated by the motor. The formulation delivery device further comprises a circuit configured to generate signals indicating the application of one or more formulation products dispensed by the formulation dispensing assembly, and a circuit configured to transmit the signals indicating the application of the formulation products to a use analysis system. In some embodiments, a computer-implemented method for automatically determining at least one hair feature for a target is provided. The computing system receives signals indicating the application of one or more dispensed formulation products from the formulation delivery device, analyzes the signals to automatically determine at least one hair feature, and stores at least one hair feature in a use data storage unit.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 302443 filed January 24, 2022, and to French Patent Application No. 2203627 filed April 20, 2022, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. means of solving the problem

[0002] In some embodiments, a formulation delivery device is provided. The formulation delivery device includes a motor and a formulation dispensing assembly. The formulation dispensing assembly also includes a reciprocating nozzle assembly operated by the motor. The formulation delivery device further includes a circuit configured to generate signals indicating the application of one or more formulation products dispensed by the formulation dispensing assembly, and a circuit configured to transmit signals indicating the application of formulation products to a use analysis system.

[0003] In some embodiments, a computer-implemented method for automatically determining at least one hair feature for a target is provided. The computing system receives signals from a formulation delivery device indicating the application of one or more dispensed formulation products. The computing system analyzes the signals and automatically determines at least one hair feature. The computing system stores at least one hair feature in a data storage unit.

[0004] In some embodiments, a system for automatically determining at least one hair feature for a target is provided. The system includes a circuit configured to receive signals from a formulation delivery device indicating the application of one or more dispensed formulation products, a circuit configured to analyze the signals to automatically determine at least one hair feature, and a circuit configured to store at least one hair feature in a usage data storage unit. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0005] The aforementioned aspects of the claimed subject matter and the many advantages associated therewith will be more readily recognized by referring to the following detailed description together with the attached drawings: FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic diagram of a formulation delivery system according to a representative embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 illustrates a schematic overview of a formulation delivery device according to a representative embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 illustrates a schematic overview of the application of a formulation delivery system according to a representative embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4a shows an exploded perspective view of a formulation delivery device according to a representative embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4b shows a side cross-sectional view of the formulation delivery device of FIG. 4a. FIG. 5a shows a perspective view of a formulation dispensing assembly according to a representative embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5b shows a side cross-sectional view of the formulation dispensing assembly of FIG. 5a. FIG. 6a shows a first perspective view of a formulation cartridge according to a representative embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6b shows a second perspective view of the formulation cartridge of FIG. 6a. Fig. 6c shows an exploded perspective view of the formulation cartridge of Fig. 6a. Fig. 6d shows a side cross-sectional view of the formulation cartridge of Fig. 6a. FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating aspects of a non-limiting embodiment of a usage analysis system according to various aspects of the present invention. FIGS. 8a-8b are flowcharts illustrating non-limiting embodiments of a method for collecting and using hair feature information according to various aspects of the present invention. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0006] The following description provides representative examples generally associated with using hair and scalp treatment formulation delivery systems to generate and collect information about a subject's hair, and provides the use of such information.

[0007] It is common to apply various treatment agents to human hair and scalp tissues. In some cases, it is beneficial to apply treatment agents to targeted areas of the hair or scalp tissue. In one example, when applying a coloring agent to the roots of the hair, for instance, during a color maintenance process, it may be desirable to apply the treatment agent to the portion of the hair near the scalp. In another example, it may be desirable to apply a scalp treatment agent directly to the scalp tissue while minimizing contact with the hair.

[0008] Conventional systems for applying hair and scalp treatment formulations have been widely used. In one example, hair coloring kits are generally used, particularly to alter the appearance of hair color or to blend gray hair. Conventional hair coloring systems have several disadvantages, including difficulty of use, time consumption, uneven coverage, unpredictable results, and excessive messiness. In one aspect, conventional hair coloring systems may not be effective for blending and dyeing hair roots after new hair has grown out of the scalp, where the natural hair color differs from the rest of the dyed hair. The present invention relates to addressing these and other needs.

[0009] In one embodiment, the hair coloring formulation comprises at least one dye and a separate developer mixed in a controlled ratio. However, the term “formulation” in the present invention is not limited to dyes and developers. As used herein, the term “formulation” generally means any dye, developer, formulation, fluid, or mixture thereof. In the present invention, the term “formulation” includes permanent hair dyes; semi-permanent dyes; developers; conditioners; hair growth treatments such as minoxidil manufactured under the trade name ROGAINE®; hair protein treatments; disulfide bond repair hair treatments; fluid hair treatments; fluid scalp treatments; activators; relaxers, etc.

[0010] As described below, a formulation delivery device configured to apply a formulation to a target area of ​​hair and scalp tissue has been created. Although any of the formulations mentioned above may be suitably applied using the embodiments described herein, the present invention generally refers to a hair coloring formulation as a representative example of a treatment formulation applied by the system and device described below. However, it should be understood that any of the system, device, cartridge, and method may be utilized with any of the formulations mentioned above.

[0011] In some embodiments of the present invention, information generated while using a formulation delivery device to dispense a formulation product and apply it to a target's hair is used to automatically determine the characteristics of the target's hair. In some embodiments, these automatically determined characteristics may be collected and used for various purposes, including but not limited to providing recommendations for products that may be useful based on the target's hair characteristics.

[0012] FIG. 1 illustrates a representative formulation delivery system (100) according to the present invention. The formulation delivery system (100) includes a number of different features including a formulation product line (102), a formulation delivery device (104), and an optional platform (106), thereby enabling a customized user experience.

[0013] The formulation product line (102) includes different formulations, each stored in the same (common) formulation cartridge (108) type configured for use with the formulation delivery device (104). Cartridges of the common formulation cartridge type are generally configured to be inserted into the cartridge hole of the reusable handle of the formulation delivery device. For example, in some embodiments, the formulation cartridge and the cleaning cartridge have a common cross-sectional shape and dimensions. Additionally, some embodiments of the common formulation cartridge type have a common number and arrangement of output nozzles.

[0014] Accordingly, the common formulation cartridge (108) type allows the consumer to utilize multiple different formulations from a single formulation delivery device (104). Representative formulation cartridge (108) types are described below in FIGS. 6a–6d.

[0015] In a representative embodiment, the formulation product line (102) includes hair coloring formulations and scalp treatment formulations. In another representative embodiment, the formulation product line (102) includes at least two, three, four, five, six, seven, or eight of the following different formulations, each of which is stored in a common formulation cartridge (108) type: permanent hair dye and developer; semi-permanent dye and developer; shampoo; conditioner; hair growth treatment such as minoxidil; hair protein treatment; disulfide bond repair hair treatment; activator; relaxer; or fluid scalp treatment. In yet another representative embodiment, the formulation product line (102) additionally includes any of the above combinations in an optional cleaning cartridge (110) of the common formulation cartridge (108) type.

[0016] The formulation cartridge (108) type has an elongated shape and dimensions configured to be inserted into the handle of the formulation delivery device (104), particularly into the cartridge cavity of the handle. In some embodiments of the formulation delivery system (100), the elongated outer housing has different configurations between the formulation cartridge (108) containing the formulation and the cleaning cartridge (110), but has a common shape and dimensions. For example, in some embodiments, the formulation cartridge (108) containing the formulation has the configuration of the partially recyclable embodiment shown in FIGS. 6a–6d, while the cleaning cartridge (110) has a similar shape and dimensions but different materials and components.

[0017] Another feature of the formulation cartridge (108) type is that there are multiple liquid outlet nozzles, which are sized and positioned at the distal (front) end of the formulation cartridge (108) in a configuration that is fluidly connected to a corresponding plurality of liquid inlets (e.g., a first formulation inlet). In some embodiments, the liquid outlet nozzle is a valve of the formulation packet placed in the formulation cartridge (108).

[0018] A typical type of formulation cartridge (108) that is inserted into a formulation delivery device (104) and configured to store a first formulation and a second formulation is described below in FIGS. 6a-6d.

[0019] A cleaning cartridge (110), which is of the common formulation cartridge (108) type (i.e., having common external dimensions and multiple liquid output nozzles), removes residual formulation from the formulation delivery device (104) by enabling a user to clean the formulation delivery device (104) by performing a cleaning routine that washes out a cleaning liquid (e.g., water) from the cleaning cartridge (110) through the fluid conduit of the formulation delivery device (104). Advantageously, the cleaning cartridge (110) and the cleaning routine reduce waste and costs by allowing a significant portion of the formulation delivery device (104) to be reused for other formulations.

[0020] The cleaning cartridge (110) includes a rechargeable cleaning liquid reservoir disposed inside an outer housing, which is fluidly connected to a plurality of output nozzles. Thus, the user can fill the cleaning liquid reservoir with a cleaning liquid such as water, perform a plurality of cleaning routines in the formulation delivery device (104), and refill the cleaning liquid reservoir.

[0021] The formulation delivery device (104) is a connected electromechanical device that interacts with the user, the formulation cartridge (108), and optionally the platform (106) to provide a customized and personalized user experience. Representative formulation delivery devices and their subsystems are described below in relation to FIGS. 4a–5b.

[0022] Generally, the formulation delivery device (104) includes a formulation dispensing assembly and a controller, as well as a reusable handle configured to accommodate a formulation cartridge (108) type, both of which are placed on the reusable handle. The formulation dispensing assembly includes at least one fluid conduit flexibly connected to an electric pump and a reciprocating nozzle assembly, and is configured to draw a formulation or cleaning liquid from the formulation cartridge (108) and distribute it through the reciprocating nozzle assembly to a part of the user's hair, scalp, or body.

[0023] The controller communicates with an encryption chip reader of the cartridge interrogation interface of the reusable handle to read an encryption chip placed in the formulation cartridge (108) in order to identify and authenticate which formulation product is stored in the formulation cartridge (108) inserted into the reusable handle at a given time. In some embodiments, the controller also authenticates when a cleaning cartridge (110) is inserted into the reusable handle. Based on the authenticated formulation product or cleaning cartridge (110), the controller causes the formulation delivery device (104) to execute a formulation routine that dispenses the authenticated formulation from the formulation cartridge through the formulation dispensing assembly. Based on the authenticated cleaning cartridge (110), the controller also causes the formulation delivery device (104) to execute a cleaning routine that dispenses a cleaning liquid through the formulation dispensing assembly.

[0024] In some embodiments, the platform (106) includes an engine that personalizes the user experience, provides useful analytics, and enables e-commerce. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the platform (106) runs on a mobile device (112), such as a smartphone or tablet, and interacts with a user (e.g., an end user or a beauty technician) to provide actionable information through a plurality of engines, which is described below in relation to FIG. 3. In some embodiments, the platform (106) communicates with a formulation delivery device (104) and a network (114), such as a mobile network, a cloud-based enterprise network, a local area network, etc.

[0025] The formulation product line (102), formulation delivery device (104), and platform (106) together provide an improved customized user experience.

[0026] FIG. 2 shows a schematic overview of a typical formulation delivery device (200) and facilitates understanding of its typical features. It should be understood that the formulation delivery device (200) has the same features as the formulation delivery device (104) of FIG. 1.

[0027] The formulation delivery device (200) includes a reusable handle (202) having a hollow elongated portion configured to reversibly receive a standard formulation cartridge type (including a cleaning cartridge (110)). The reusable handle (202) also receives a plurality of subassemblies including a controller (204) comprising a processor (206) and a computer-readable medium (208) storing a plurality of engines (described below), a cartridge interrogation interface (210), a power supply (212), a formulation dispensing assembly (214), and a position sensor (216).

[0028] In some embodiments, the power supply (212) is a direct current (DC) power supply, such as a rechargeable battery (e.g., a lithium-ion battery) configured to be charged by connecting it to a household AC outlet. In other embodiments, the power supply (212) is an alternating current (AC) power supply, such as a standard household AC power supply, that uses an electric cord (not shown) to supply power to the formulation delivery device (200).

[0029] The formulation dispensing assembly (214) provides a formulation product and / or cleaning liquid from the formulation cartridge (108) to the user's scalp or hair. In an embodiment, the formulation dispensing assembly (214) comprises: a first fluid conduit fluidly connected to a first formulation inlet (coupled to a first liquid output nozzle of the formulation cartridge (108)), a second fluid conduit fluidly connected to a second formulation inlet (coupled to a second liquid output nozzle of the formulation cartridge (108)), a motor (218), a pump (220) driven by the motor (218), and a reciprocating nozzle assembly (222) driven by the motor (218).

[0030] The cartridge interrogation interface (210) includes an RFID reader, a near-field reader, etc., and when the formulation cartridge (108) is inserted into the cartridge, the cartridge interrogation interface (210) reads an encryption chip placed in the formulation cartridge (224) in order to authenticate the formulation cartridge in relation to the formulation routine engine (226) described below.

[0031] In some embodiments, the cartridge interrogation interface (210) also reads the identification of the formulation product (or the identification of the formulation product) contained in the formulation cartridge (108).

[0032] The position sensor (216) includes one or more sensors that assist in determining the position and orientation of the formulation delivery device (200) to the user's scalp or hair, either alone or collectively. In some embodiments, the position sensor (216) includes one or more accelerometers, touch sensors (e.g., capacitive touch sensors), proximity sensors (e.g., optical proximity sensors), etc. Signals transmitted from the position sensor (216) are used by the controller (204) and its specific engine to improve the accuracy and efficiency of the formulation application to the user's hair or scalp. Signals transmitted from the position sensor (216) may also be used by the controller (204) to assist in determining hair characteristics.

[0033] The controller (204) is operably connected (e.g., electrically) to a power supply (212), a cartridge interrogation interface (210), a formulation dispensing assembly (214), and a position sensor (216). The controller (204) includes a processor (206) (e.g., a general processing unit, a graphics processing unit, or a specific application integrated circuit), a computer-readable medium (208) (a storage medium of a machine-readable type), and a plurality of engines implemented as software logic (e.g., executable software code), firmware logic, hardware logic, or various combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the controller (204) includes a transceiver that transmits a signal from any of the engines described below to a mobile device and receives a signal transmitted from the mobile device.

[0034] As used herein, the term "engine" refers to logic implemented by hardware or software instructions that may be written in one or more programming languages, including but not limited to C, C++, C#, COBOL, JAVA™, PHP, Perl, HTML, CSS, JavaScript, VBScript, ASPX, Go, and Python. The engine may be written in a programming language that is compiled into an executable program or interpreted. A software engine may be called by other engines or by itself. Generally, the engine described in the present invention refers to a logic engine that may be merged with other engines or divided into sub-engines. The engine may be implemented by logic stored on any type of computer-readable medium or computer storage device and may be stored and executed on one or more general-purpose computers, thereby creating an engine or a special-purpose computer configured to provide such functions. The engine may be implemented through logic programmed into an Application-Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), a Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), or other hardware devices.

[0035] In some embodiments, the controller (204) includes a communication interface having a circuit configured to enable communication with a formulation cartridge (224) (encryption chip), a cleaning cartridge (228), a cartridge interrogation interface (210), a mobile device, and / or a formulation delivery system including the Internet, a cellular network, an RF network, a Personal Area Network (PAN), a local area network, a wide area network, or other networks. Accordingly, the communication interface may be configured to communicate using a wireless protocol (e.g., WIFI®, WIMAX®, BLUETOOTH®, ZIGBEE®, cellular, 3G, 4G, LTE, infrared, near field, etc.) and / or a wired protocol (a Universal Serial Bus, FireWire, or other protocols or standards including but not limited to RS-216, RJ-45, etc., a parallel communication bus, etc.). In some embodiments, the communication interface includes circuitry configured to initiate a discovery protocol that enables the controller (204) and other network elements (e.g., formulation cartridge (108)) to identify each other and exchange control information (e.g., the identity (ID) of a formulation stored in the formulation cartridge (108)). In an embodiment, the communication interface has circuitry configured to be a discovery protocol and to negotiate one or more pre-shared keys.

[0036] A computer-readable medium (208) is a type of machine-readable storage medium that includes a mechanism for storing information in a non-transient form accessible by a machine (e.g., a processor (206) or a mobile device (112)). For example, machine-readable storage media include writable / non-writable media (e.g., ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), magnetic disk storage media, optical storage media, flash memory devices, etc.).

[0037] The term "computer-readable medium" as used in the present invention means a removable or non-removable device implementing any technology capable of storing information in a volatile or non-volatile manner to be read by a processor of a computing device, including but not limited to: a hard drive; flash memory; a solid-state drive; RAM (Random Access Memory); ROM (Read Only Memory); a CD-ROM, DVD, or other disk storage; a magnetic cassette; a magnetic tape; and a magnetic disk storage device.

[0038] The engines described below are representative and are not limited thereto. Accordingly, some embodiments of the controller (204) include additional engines, while other embodiments include fewer engines than all of them.

[0039] The cartridge interrogation engine (230) communicates with the cartridge interrogation interface (210) to obtain information for authenticating any formulation cartridge (224) or cleaning cartridge (228) inserted into the reusable handle (202) and identifying the formulation product contained within the formulation cartridge (224). For example, when the formulation cartridge (224) is inserted into the reusable handle (202), the cartridge interrogation interface (210) reads encrypted information from an encryption chip placed in the formulation cartridge (224). If the cartridge interrogation interface (210) successfully reads the encrypted information from the encryption chip, the cartridge interrogation engine (230) "unlocks" the formulation delivery device (200), for example, the formulation routine engine (226). However, if the cartridge interrogation interface (210) cannot successfully authenticate the formulation cartridge inserted into the reusable handle (202), the formulation delivery device (200) is not unlocked. For example, if the formulation cartridge is a counterfeit cartridge or another cartridge containing a poor formulation, the cartridge interrogation engine (230) does not unlock the function of the formulation delivery device (200). In this way, the cartridge interrogation engine (230) is advantageous in preventing the user from suffering harm or having a bad experience.

[0040] In some embodiments, the cartridge interrogation engine (230) is configured to read additional information from an encryption chip, including one or more of the following: a formulation identifier, a starting formulation quantity, a formulation expiration date, or a formulation production date. In these embodiments, the cartridge query engine (230) transmits the additional information to another engine for subsequent use.

[0041] The formulation routine engine (226) stores multiple formulation routines for different formulations and causes the formulation dispensing assembly (214) to execute one or more formulation routines based on the formulation cartridge (224) certified by the cartridge interrogation engine (230). The formulation routine dispenses the certified formulation product from the formulation cartridge (224) through the reciprocating nozzle assembly (222). For example, the formulation routine dispenses one or more formulations from the reciprocating nozzle assembly (222) for a specific dispensing time, with a specific liquid flow rate of the pump, a nozzle reciprocating frequency and / or a reciprocating amplitude of the reciprocating nozzle assembly (222), and / or other device operating parameters specified by the formulation routine stored in the formulation routine engine (226). In this way, the formulation delivery device (200) adjusts one or more device operating parameters based on the specific formulation stored in the certified formulation cartridge (224) inserted into the formulation delivery device for more effective hair and scalp treatment.

[0042] In some embodiments, the formulation routine engine (226) determines the volume of an authenticated formulation dispensed from a formulation cartridge through a formulation dispensing assembly based on the dispensing time of the authenticated formulation. Based on the dispensing time and / or the volume dispensed, the formulation routine engine (226) causes a visual indicator on a reusable handle (202) to signal the amount of the remaining formulation. This helps the user predict when the formulation cartridge needs to be replaced and encourages the user to conveniently procure additional formulation cartridges by utilizing the e-commerce engine of a connected application.

[0043] The cleaning routine engine (232) stores a cleaning routine and causes the formulation dispensing assembly (214) to execute the cleaning routine after the cleaning cartridge (228) (which has a storage compartment containing cleaning liquid) is inserted into the reusable handle (202) and authenticated by the cartridge interrogation engine (230). The cleaning routine dispenses cleaning liquid from the authenticated cleaning cartridge (228) through the reciprocating nozzle assembly (222) to empty any residual formulation within the formulation dispensing assembly (214) (e.g., at a predetermined flow rate for a predetermined time). The cleaning routine is useful, for example, when one formulation is used in the formulation delivery device (200) and another formulation is used before the second. In some embodiments, the cleaning routine operates the pump (220) at a higher flow rate than one or more (or all) formulation routines stored by the formulation routine engine (226) to remove all residual formulation.

[0044] According to the method of the present invention, a method for cleaning any formulation delivery device comprises the steps of inserting a cleaning cartridge, at least partially filled with a cleaning liquid, into a reusable handle of the formulation delivery device, and running a cleaning routine until the cleaning liquid dispensed through the formulation dispensing assembly is cleaned.

[0045] The power management engine (234) provides power from the power supply (212) to one or more of the controller (204), cartridge interrogation interface (210), formulation dispensing assembly (214), or position sensor (216). Additionally, the power management engine (234) conserves available power resources (e.g., conserves battery life) by toggling the formulation delivery device (104) between a sleep state (passive state) and an operating state (active state). In some embodiments, the power management engine (234) is configured to measure the amount of power consumed by the motor (218) and / or pump (220) during operation and to generate a signal based on the consumed power that can be used to derive hair features.

[0046] The sleep / operation engine (236) manages whether the formulation delivery device (200) is in an operating state or a sleeping state. The formulation delivery device (200) is in a sleeping state by default, and accordingly, little or no power is supplied from the power supply (212) to the formulation dispensing assembly (214), the cartridge interrogation interface (210), and / or the controller (204). In the sleeping state, the formulation delivery device (200) cannot execute a formulation routine or a cleaning routine. In contrast, in the operating state, the controller (204), the cartridge interrogation interface (210), the formulation dispensing assembly (214), and the position sensor (216) are supplied with sufficient power so that the formulation delivery device (104) can execute one or more formulation routines or cleaning routines. In some embodiments, the formulation delivery device (104) is "operated" by the following, that is, switched from a sleep state to an operating state: by pressing a button placed on the reusable handle (202) or by inserting a formulation cartridge (224) or a cleaning cartridge (228) into the reusable handle (202). In some embodiments, the formulation delivery device (200) returns to a sleep state after a predetermined period of inactivity (e.g., 120 seconds of inactivity).

[0047] The position engine (238) determines the position of the formulation delivery device (200) by utilizing a position signal provided by the position sensor (216), and this position information is subsequently provided to other engines, including but not limited to the formulation routine engine (226), to facilitate the execution of a formulation routine, for example, a calibration routine. In some embodiments, the position engine (238) enables, for example, the execution of a calibration routine (described below) (via a transceiver), the platform (106) to display a correct application indication based on the position signal, the use analysis system to determine hair characteristics, or, for other purposes, provides the position signal to a mobile device or a use analysis system.

[0048] FIG. 3 should be understood to have all the features of the platform (106) of FIG. 1 and illustrates a schematic overview of a representative platform (300) compatible with all formulation delivery systems and formulation delivery devices of the present invention. As mentioned above, the platform (300) is configured to operate on a device, such as a mobile device like a smartphone or tablet. As one representative example, the platform (300) is described in the context of a mobile device (302) connected to a network (304); however, this is not limited thereto.

[0049] A mobile device (302) has a display (306) (e.g., an LED or LCD display), a processor (308), and a computer-readable medium (310) storing a plurality of engines. One or more of the engines described below may provide one or more user interfaces on the display (306). The display (306) may be a touch-sensitive display configured to receive user input. Thus, for each engine, the user interface displayed on the display (306) is configured to display information and receive user input.

[0050] The platform (300) includes a number of engines for personalizing the user experience, including a user profile engine (312) and a user routine engine (314). The engines described below are representative and are not limited thereto. Accordingly, some embodiments of the platform (300) include additional engines, while other embodiments include fewer engines than all of them.

[0051] The user profile engine (312) constructs one or more profiles for the user of the formulation delivery device (104). These profiles are provided as inputs to other engines, e.g., the user routine engine (314) and the e-commerce engine (324). Accordingly, the user profile engine (312) provides one or more user interfaces that prompt the user to provide one or more user profile inputs, including: hair color, hair type (e.g., curly, straight), dyed / undyed status, race, hair condition (e.g., damaged), scalp condition (e.g., itchy), and / or age. The user profile engine (312) receives and stores the user profile inputs. In some embodiments, as described in more detail below, at least some of the user profile inputs may be automatically determined and collected based on information regarding the application of the dispensed formulation product.

[0052] In some embodiments, the user profile engine (312) communicates with the user routine engine (314) by providing one or more of the user profile inputs or the entire user profile to the user routine engine (314). Then, the user routine engine (314) utilizes one or more of the user profile inputs to generate one or more user-specific routines for the user and to select one or more tutorials to display on the display (306) or / or.

[0053] In some embodiments, the user profile engine (312) communicates with the formulation delivery device (104). For example, in some embodiments, the user profile engine (312) adjusts at least one device operating parameter of the formulation routine (e.g., flow rate, dispensing time, round-trip amplitude, or round-trip frequency) generated by the formulation routine engine based on one or more of the user profile inputs.

[0054] In some embodiments, the user routine engine (314) helps the user effectively utilize the connected formulation delivery device by formulating one or more user-specific routines for each user based on one or more user profile inputs. That is, the user routine engine (314) constructs a new formulation routine (instead of selecting a predetermined formulation routine) to effectively address one or more conditions identified by the user profile input or to achieve one or more goals identified by the user profile input. As a representative example, if the user input indicates that the user's hair is dyed and damaged, the user routine engine (314) constructs a user-specific routine to select a hair repair formulation and a shampoo formulation suitable for the user's hair color from a formulation product line, and displays a user-specific routine (e.g., instructions) for using the selected hair repair formulation and shampoo at determined intervals to improve the user's hair health.

[0055] Additionally, the user routine engine (314) displays the following on the display (306): a) one or more manual tutorials for formulation routines, cleaning routines and / or calibration routines; and / or one or more sets of active commands that instruct the user when using the formulation delivery device.

[0056] In some embodiments, the user routine engine (314) receives one or more user profile inputs or the entire user profile from the user profile engine (312) and then displays a manual tutorial (e.g., a pre-recorded training video) directed at the user based on the received user profile input or user profile. For example, the user routine engine (314) receives a user profile input from the user profile engine (312) indicating that the user has dyed their hair and displays a tutorial on the display (306) showing the user how to use a formulation delivery device to dye the user's hair.

[0057] In some embodiments, the user routine engine (314) receives one or more position signals from a position sensor of the formulation delivery device via a controller. Based on the received position signals, the user routine engine (314) instructs the user on how to use the formulation delivery device when the user uses the device (e.g., instructing to move the formulation delivery device in a specific direction, at a specific speed, in a specific pattern, or to a specific spatial boundary). As an example, the user routine engine (314) receives a position signal from a position sensor indicating that the formulation delivery device is located at the user's left temple; and based on this received position signal, the user routine engine (314) displays a video instructing the user to apply the scalp treatment formulation by moving the formulation delivery device from the left temple to the right temple while dispensing the scalp treatment formulation.

[0058] In some embodiments, the user routine engine (314) receives a position signal from the formulation delivery device and displays a correct application indication based on the position signal.

[0059] The calibration engine (316) assists the user in calibrating the formulation delivery device, which in turn increases the efficacy of the formulation routine executed by the formulation delivery device. In some embodiments, the calibration engine (316) displays a manual tutorial (e.g., a pre-recorded instructional video) that instructs the user on how to complete the calibration routine. In some embodiments, the calibration engine (316) provides one or more active command sets that instruct the user on how to complete the calibration routine when the user uses the formulation delivery device and when the calibration engine (316) receives a position signal from the formulation delivery device.

[0060] According to one representative calibration routine, the calibration engine (316) instructs the user to position the formulation delivery device at multiple calibration locations on the user's body parts, for example, in a specific order (e.g., left temple, right temple, front hairline, back hairline). Subsequently, the user moves the formulation delivery device to each calibration location and indicates by pressing a button on the formulation delivery device or by other actions when the formulation delivery device is at a designated calibration location, or / or additionally while the user moves the formulation delivery device from one calibration location to another calibration location.

[0061] Based on a position signal received from a position sensor of a formulation delivery device, the calibration engine (316) and / or the formulation delivery device records a calibration position. Subsequently, the calibration engine (316) and / or the formulation delivery device adjusts one or more user-specific routines based on the recorded calibration position. In some embodiments, this adjustment step includes calibrating the spatial limits and / or temporal durations of one or more formulation routines stored in the formulation routine engine.

[0062] The manual adjustment engine (318) has the advantage of providing greater control over the formulation delivery device and a more customized user experience by enabling the user to manually adjust one or more device operation parameters of the formulation delivery device (e.g., flow rate, dispensing time, reciprocating amplitude, or reciprocating frequency). Accordingly, the manual adjustment engine (318) provides a user interface equipped with one or more user-adjustable virtual sliding scales, switches, editable value fields, etc., configured to receive one or more operation parameter inputs from the user. The manual adjustment engine (318) receives the operation parameter inputs and transmits said operation parameter inputs to the formulation delivery device (e.g., formulation routine engine), which adjusts the said device operation parameters based on said operation parameter inputs (e.g., to match the operation parameter inputs).

[0063] The analysis engine (320) receives device operating parameters (e.g., from a formulation delivery device), calculates useful analyses, and provides them to a user via a user interface and / or to a third party via a network (304). Typical analyses include: formulation usage patterns, formulation purchase predictions, and diagnosis of the formulation delivery device. In some embodiments, the analysis engine (320) communicates with the network (304) (e.g., an analysis platform deployed on one or more cloud-based servers) to retrieve additional information and / or to calculate the analyses.

[0064] In some embodiments, the formulation delivery device includes a location sensor that transmits a location signal to a controller, and a transceiver that transmits the location signal to a mobile device. The formulation delivery device transmits the location signal to an analysis engine (320), and the analysis engine searches for user suggestions from an analysis platform of the network (114) based on the received location signal and displays the user suggestions.

[0065] The formula creation engine (322) enables the user to create a customized formula based on the user's selection of one or more formula inputs, which correspond to one or more desired results (e.g., desired hair color), one or more formula inputs (e.g., an indication that the user's hair is damaged), and / or one or more user profile inputs provided to the user profile engine (312).

[0066] Accordingly, the formulation generation engine (322) is configured to receive one or more user profile inputs from the user profile engine (312) and to formulate a customized formulation based on these inputs.

[0067] To facilitate the creation of a user's customized formulation, the formulation creation engine (322) provides a user interface having one or more user-adjustable virtual sliding scales, switches, editable value fields, etc., corresponding to each formulation input. In some embodiments, the formulation creation engine (322) communicates with a network (304) (e.g., a formula database deployed on one or more cloud-based servers) to retrieve additional information and / or additionally formulate the customized formulation.

[0068] The e-commerce engine (324) provides a purchase interface that enables a user to purchase products related to the formulation delivery device (including one-time or subscription-based purchases). In some embodiments, the e-commerce engine (324) retrieves one or more custom formulations from the formulation creation engine (322) (or its components) and presents an option in the purchase interface for the user to purchase one or more formulation cartridges (108) containing the custom formulations. In some embodiments, the e-commerce engine (324) retrieves one or more user profile inputs and / or user-specific routine inputs from the user profile engine (312) and presents an option in the purchase interface for the user to purchase one or more formulation cartridges containing formulations targeting the user profile inputs (e.g., if the user input indicates damaged hair, a formulation cartridge containing a hair repair formulation). In some embodiments, the e-commerce engine (324) presents an option in the purchase interface for purchasing a cleaning cartridge (110) or a formulation delivery device (104) and / or its components. These purchasing interfaces and purchasing options may be based on formulation usage patterns and / or formula purchasing predictions retrieved from the analysis engine (320).

[0069] FIGS. 4a and 4b illustrate a representative formulation delivery device (400) and its components according to an embodiment of the present invention. The formulation delivery device (400) is configured to accommodate a formulation cartridge (402) type (including a cleaning cartridge of the same type). An embodiment of a formulation cartridge of the formulation cartridge (402) type is described in detail below in relation to FIGS. 6a and 6d; it should be understood that the formulation cartridge (402) illustrated in FIG. 4a has the same features as described herein. Some embodiments of the formulation delivery device (400) include a formulation cartridge (402) and / or an optional pull-through adapter (404).

[0070] The formulation delivery device (400) comprises a reusable handle (406) formed of ABS plastic or a similar rigid polymer or other material, and in some embodiments, is a composite assembly formed of a plurality of shells configured to be connected with fastening elements such as snaps, screws, etc. The reusable handle (406) has a hollow, elongated gripping portion having a cartridge cavity set in a size and dimension to accommodate a formulation cartridge type (402). In some embodiments, the cavity includes a keying feature that facilitates the correct insertion of the formulation cartridge type (402). For example, some embodiments include a cartridge interface (408) having a flat docking surface that is positioned at the opening and interfaces with the corresponding docking surface of the formulation cartridge (402) when the formulation cartridge (402) is correctly inserted into the opening.

[0071] In addition to the controller (412), the reusable handle (406) has a formulation dispensing assembly (410) (described below in relation to FIG. 4b - FIG. 5b) built into it. The formulation dispensing assembly (410) and the controller (412) each have the same features as the formulation dispensing assembly (214) and the controller (204) of FIG. 2. An embodiment of the formulation dispensing assembly is described in detail below in relation to FIG. 5a - FIG. 5b; it should be understood that the formulation dispensing assembly (410) shown in FIG. 4a has the same features as described herein.

[0072] The formulation dispensing assembly (410) dispenses a formulation or cleaning liquid from a formulation cartridge (402) and includes a reciprocating nozzle assembly (414) (described below) having a nozzle extending away from the front end of a reusable handle (406) between a pump, a fluid conduit, a mixing chamber, and a plurality of optional standoff portions (416). The reciprocating nozzle assembly (414) includes a plurality of annular nozzles that reciprocate back and forth along the track of the reusable handle (406) while dispensing the formulation to the user's skin or hair. In some embodiments, the reciprocating nozzle assembly (414) reciprocates with a reciprocating amplitude of 7.0-12.0 mm (e.g., 8.0 mm-11.0 mm, or 9.0-10.0 mm) and / or a reciprocating frequency of 5.0 Hz-10.0 Hz (e.g., 6.0 Hz-9.0 Hz, 6.0 Hz-8.0 Hz), which can be adjusted by a formulation routine engine, a cleaning routine engine, a user routine engine, a manual adjustment engine, or other engine.

[0073] As illustrated in FIG. 4b, the formulation cartridge (402) has one or more formulation packets (418) disposed inside, each of which has an output nozzle (420) protruding through the distal (front) end of the formulation cartridge (402), which is fluidly connected to the corresponding formulation inlet (422) of the formulation dispensing assembly (410) when the formulation cartridge (402) is fully inserted into the cartridge cavity (424).

[0074] A button (426) placed on a reusable handle (406) and electrically connected to a controller (412) activates the features of the formulation delivery device (400) described above. In some embodiments, pressing the button (426) activates any of the functions of the engines described above in FIG. 2. For example, in some embodiments, pressing the button (426) activates a sleep / operation engine stored in the controller (412) to wake the formulation delivery device (400) from a sleep state to an operating state. In some embodiments, pressing the button (426) while a formulation cartridge is being inserted into the reusable handle (406) activates a formulation routine engine stored in the controller (412) to start a formulation routine.

[0075] In some embodiments, when the button (426) is pressed while the cleaning cartridge is being inserted into the reusable handle (406), the cleaning routine engine stored in the controller (412) is activated and the cleaning routine is started. A visual indicator (428) (e.g., an LED) placed along the reusable handle (406) indicates one or more of the remaining amount of formulation or remaining battery life based on, for example, the dispensing time determined by the formulation routine engine of the controller. Some embodiments include an additional button and / or a varying number of visual indicators (428) with various functions, and the illustrated embodiments are not limited. In some embodiments, the visual indicator (428) is a multi-segment LED in which each segment corresponds to an equal proportion of the formulation remaining in the formulation cartridge.

[0076] The controller (412) includes logic that causes a cartridge interrogation interface (430) placed on a reusable handle (406) (e.g., an RFID reader) to read an encryption chip (432) on a formulation cartridge (402) to authenticate the formulation cartridge (402) when executed by the processor of the controller (412). The encryption chip (432) stores at least one of an identifier of the formulation cartridge (402), formulation identification information, formulation starting quantity, formulation expiration date, and formulation production date.

[0077] The controller (412) also includes logic that, when executed, causes the formulation delivery device to execute a formulation routine that dispenses a mixed formulation (of the first formulation and the second formulation) from the formulation cartridge (402) through the formulation dispensing assembly based on the authentication of the formulation cartridge (402). For example, the formulation delivery device authenticates the first and second formulations after (or at the time of) inserting the formulation cartridge into the reusable handle, and then, when a button on the reusable handle is pressed, executes a formulation routine that causes the formulation dispensing assembly (410) to continuously mix the first formulation and the second formulation while the button is pressed, and to dispense the formulation from the reciprocating nozzle assembly with one or more of the following predetermined device operating parameters: formulation flow rate, reciprocating frequency, or reciprocating amplitude.

[0078] In some embodiments, the controller (412) also includes logic that, when executed, causes the formulation delivery device to execute a cleaning routine that dispenses cleaning liquid through the formulation dispensing assembly based on the authentication of a cleaning cartridge inserted into a reusable handle. For example, the formulation delivery device authenticates a cleaning cartridge inserted into a reusable handle, and then, when a button on the reusable handle is pressed, executes a cleaning routine that causes the formulation dispensing assembly (410) to dispense cleaning liquid (e.g., water) continuously or continuously from one or more of the following predetermined device operating parameters: cleaning liquid flow rate, reciprocating frequency, or reciprocating amplitude. In some embodiments, the cleaning liquid flow rate is higher than one or more formulation flow rates of formulation routines stored in the controller (412) for the benefit of effectively washing residual formulation from the formulation dispensing assembly.

[0079] A pull-through adapter (404) is attached to a reusable handle (406) on a reciprocating nozzle assembly (414). In some embodiments, the pull-through adapter (404) provides an audible feedback signal when properly coupled with the reusable handle (406).

[0080] FIGS. 5a and 5b illustrate a representative formulation dispensing assembly (500) compatible with any formulation delivery device, formulation cartridge, and cleaning cartridge described herein. The primary function of the formulation dispensing assembly (500) is to dispense a mixture of two different formulations from a formulation cartridge to the user's skin or hair. In some embodiments, the formulation dispensing assembly (500) dispenses the mixture at a flow rate of 20-40 mL / min or 120 mL per 4 minutes, e.g., 20-35 mL / min, 20-30 mL / min, 20-25 mL / min, 25-35 mL / min, 25-30 mL / min, or 35-40 mL / min.

[0081] The formulation dispensing assembly (500) includes a first formulation inlet (502) and a second formulation inlet (504), and a first fluid conduit (506) and a second fluid conduit (508) fluidly connected to the first formulation inlet (502) and the second formulation inlet (504), respectively. In some embodiments, each of the first formulation inlet (502) and the second formulation inlet (504) is formed as a projection extending rearward from the first fluid conduit and the second fluid conduit, respectively (i.e., toward the cartridge cavity when placed on a reusable handle), and is configured so that the projection protrudes into the formulation cartridge toward the rear end of the reusable handle.

[0082] The formulation dispensing assembly (500) also includes a motor (510), a gearbox (512) operably connected to the motor (510), and a pump (514) driven by the motor (510) through the gearbox (512). In some embodiments, the pump (514) is a peristaltic pump, which has been found to improve formulation dispensing when used with the mixing chamber and tapered formulation channel described in the present invention.

[0083] The reciprocating nozzle assembly (516) comprises a plurality of annular nozzles (518) positioned on a comb (520), which circulate back and forth along the track of a reusable handle (406) while dispensing the formulation onto the user's skin or hair to achieve a more uniform coverage of the formulation during use. Each nozzle (518) includes a formulation channel (522) through it, and each is fluidly connected to a first fluid conduit (506) and a second fluid conduit (508) through a manifold (524). In some embodiments, each formulation channel (522) is tapered for the benefit of increasing the formulation dispensing speed or / additionally to further mix the two formulations. Tapered formulation channels have proven advantageous when utilized in combination with other features described herein, for example, the pump (514) is a peristaltic pump and / or / additionally the turbulent mixing chamber includes one or more spiral mixers (526).

[0084] The motor (510) and gearbox (512) drive the reciprocating nozzle assembly (516) in linear reciprocating motion. In an embodiment, the linear reciprocating motion is motivated by an eccentric roller (528) coupled to the output shaft (530) of the gearbox (512), and the eccentric roller (528) rotates inside the annular bracket of the comb (520). Driving the pump (514) and the reciprocating nozzle assembly (516) with a common motor (510) improves power efficiency and reduces weight and size, thereby improving the form factor of the formulation delivery device. Nevertheless, in some embodiments, one or more motors are used to drive the pump (514) and the reciprocating nozzle assembly (516).

[0085] A nozzle (518) is fluidly connected to a first fluid conduit (506) and a second fluid conduit (508) through a turbulent mixing chamber (532), which mixes a first formulation discharged from a formulation cartridge through the first fluid conduit (506) and a second formulation discharged from a formulation cartridge through the second fluid conduit (508) to produce a mixed formulation. In particular, the turbulent mixing chamber (532) mixes the two formulations by combining the same in a common chamber under pressure and causing the two formulations to flow through one or more mixing elements, which creates turbulence in the mixed formulation (distinguished from laminar flow). The ratio of the first formulation to the second formulation varies in different embodiments. For example, in some embodiments, the mixed formulation is a mixture of a first formulation and a second formulation in a ratio of about 0.8:1.0 to 1.2:1.0, e.g. 0.85, 0.90, 0.95, 1.00, 1.05, 1.10, or 1.15.

[0086] In some embodiments, a turbulent mixing chamber (532) is positioned between the pump (514) and the reciprocating nozzle assembly (516). In this configuration, the two formulations are mixed immediately before dispensing, which produces a more uniform formulation consistency and results in better formulation dispensing from the nozzle (518) compared to mixing the formulations upstream of the pump (514).

[0087] In some embodiments, the turbulent mixing chamber (532) includes a spiral mixer (526) disposed inside. Some embodiments include a plurality of spiral mixers (526) fluid-connected in series along a fluid path within the turbulent mixing chamber (532) for enhanced mixing. In some embodiments, each spiral mixer has an outer diameter between 2.00 mm and 5.00 mm, for example, between 3.0 mm and 4.00 mm, for example, 3.18 mm. In some embodiments, each spiral mixer has a total length between 20.0 mm and 40.0 mm, for example, between 25.0 mm and 35.0 mm, for example, 33.0 mm. In some embodiments, each spiral mixer has a length-to-diameter pitch (defined as total length / [outer diameter * # mixing element]) between 0.75 and 1.25, for example, between 0.80 and 0.90, for example, 0.865. The combination of the aforementioned specifications was found to produce the best consistency of the mixed formulation, particularly when the two formulations are not mixed downstream of the pump (514) and immediately upstream of the reciprocating nozzle assembly (516), and also when the pump (514) is a peristaltic pump.

[0088] When in use, the pump (514) draws the formulation from the connected formulation cartridge through the first fluid conduit (506) and the second fluid conduit (508), through the turbulent mixing chamber (532), through the manifold (524), and through the nozzle (518). In the illustrated embodiment, the first fluid conduit (506) and the second fluid conduit (508) are kept fluid-separated downstream of the pump (514) to prevent mixing of the two formulations up to the turbulent mixing chamber (532). As previously mentioned, mixing the two formulations immediately before dispensing (i.e., between the pump (514) and the manifold (524)) improves the consistency of the mixed formulation.

[0089] FIGS. 6a–6d illustrate a representative formulation cartridge (600) of a formulation cartridge type compatible with any formulation delivery system, formulation delivery device, and formulation product line described herein. However, the formulation delivery system, formulation delivery device, and formulation product line described in the present invention do not require the use of the specific sustainable formulation cartridge (600) shown in FIGS. 6a–6d.

[0090] The formulation cartridge (600) is a sustainable embodiment specifically designed to reduce waste and environmental impact while providing a user-friendly experience. To this end, the formulation cartridge (600) includes two main components: a handle portion (602) and a disposable refill packet (604) configured to slide reversibly into the handle portion (602). Historically, known cartridges were designed to be completely discarded after the formulation stored within them was depleted, resulting in significant waste and higher consumer costs.

[0091] The formulation cartridge (600) is configured such that the handle portion (602) can be reused indefinitely and only the disposable refill packet (604) needs to be discarded or recycled after the formulation stored inside is depleted. Additionally, each disposable refill packet (604) is configured to be broken down into smaller components, some of which can be recycled and others discarded.

[0092] The handle portion (602) is sized, dimensional, and configured to be repeatedly inserted into the cartridge cavity of the formulation delivery device. Accordingly, the handle portion (602) is formed of ABS plastic or a similar rigid polymer or other material and includes a hollow handle portion (602) configured to accommodate a disposable refill packet (604) inside, and a tray portion (606) extending away from the handle portion (602). In the illustrated representative embodiment, the handle portion (602) is a two-part assembly (it may be a single part in other embodiments) and is sized and dimensionally specified to form a seamless extension of the formulation delivery device handle when fully inserted into the cartridge cavity. The tray portion (608) has a U-shape configured to protrude away from the handle portion (602) and support a disposable refill packet (604) (e.g., the front portion of the main body (610)). To facilitate secure coupling and easy removal, the handle portion (602) includes a cartridge release (612) (e.g., a latch) formed internally, which engages with the formulation delivery device upon proper and complete insertion.

[0093] A disposable refill packet (604) stores a first formulation packet (614) and a second formulation packet (616), each containing a first formulation and a second formulation, respectively. Each of the first formulation packet (614) and the second formulation packet (616) has a volume of 40 mL to 70 mL, for example, 50 mL to 60 mL or 55 mL. In some embodiments, the first formulation packet (614) and the second formulation packet (616) have different volumes.

[0094] The first formulation and the second formulation may each be any formulation described herein, e.g., permanent hair dyes; semi-permanent dyes; developers; conditioners; hair growth treatments such as minoxidil; hair protein treatments; disulfide bond repair hair treatments; fluid hair treatments; activators; relaxants; fluid scalp treatments, etc. In some embodiments, the first formulation and the second formulation are different. For example, in some embodiments, the first formulation is a dye and the second formulation is a developer. In other embodiments, the first formulation and the second formulation are the same (e.g., a conditioner or scalp treatment formulation).

[0095] As illustrated in FIG. 6c, each formulation packet comprises a formulation-containing packet (622) and a valve (624) through which the formulation is discharged from the packet (622). Representative formulation packets are described in International Patent Application No. PCT / US2018 / 052345, filed September 24, 2018 and assigned to L'Oreal SA and US, and Patent Application No. 17 / 133110, filed December 23, 2020 and assigned to L'Oreal SA. The entire contents of both patent applications are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.

[0096] The disposable refill packet (604) also includes a disposable elongated body portion (626) that provides structure to the disposable refill packet (604) and contains the first formulation packet (614) and the second formulation packet (616). In some embodiments, the body portion (626) has an overall length between 150 mm and 250 mm (e.g., 175 mm - 225 mm, 185 mm - 215 mm, 195 mm - 205 mm, or 200 mm) and a maximum cross-sectional dimension between 25 mm and 50 mm (e.g., 30 mm - 45 mm, 35 mm - 40 mm, or 36 mm). The body portion (626) has a rear body portion (628) and an elongated front body portion (610). The rear body portion (628) has a larger cross-sectional dimension than the front body portion (610) and is retained inside the handle portion (602) of the handle portion (602) during use (e.g., by frictional coupling). The slender front body portion (610) is supported by the tray portion (606) of the handle portion (602) and protrudes into the cartridge cavity of the formulation delivery device during use.

[0097] In the illustrated embodiment, the body portion (626) is composed of a recyclable material, for example, structured paper (e.g., cardboard). In some embodiments where the body portion (626) is formed of paper, the paper has a weight between 8 and 12 points (e.g., 8.5 points, 9.0 points, 9.5 points, 10.0 points, 10.5 points, 11.0 points, 11.5 points) to provide sufficient rigidity without providing excessive disposable material. In some of these embodiments, the body portion (626) is formed from a single piece of recyclable material. As an example, in the illustrated embodiment, the body portion (626) is formed from a single piece of paper. As illustrated in FIG. 6c, this folded structure creates an octagonal polygonal cross-section in the rear body portion (628) and a hexagonal polygonal cross-section in the front body portion (610). To facilitate assembly, some embodiments of the body portion (626) include one or more scores or guidelines to ensure proper folding. The polygonal cross-sections of the exemplified embodiments are representative and not limiting. Other embodiments have triangular, rectangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, heptagonal, octagonal, or other polygonal cross-sectional shapes. In other embodiments, the body portion (626) has the shape and structure described herein but is not composed of recyclable material.

[0098] The optional packet sleeve (630) provides several important advantages. First, it provides additional structure to the disposable refill packet (604) by sliding over and reinforcing the front portion of the main body (610). Thus, in some embodiments, the packet sleeve (630) has a greater weight or thickness compared to the material forming the main body portion (626); although this is not mandatory. In some embodiments, the packet sleeve (630) is also formed from a recycled material that may be the same recycled material as the main body portion (626).

[0099] Second, the packet sleeve (630) is coupled to the valve frame (632). For example, the illustrated packet sleeve (630) includes a plurality of engagement member recesses (634) configured to be reversibly coupled to the engagement member of the valve frame (632).

[0100] Third, the packet sleeve (630) facilitates the disassembly of the disposable refill packet (604). As illustrated in FIGS. 6a and 6c, the packet sleeve (630) includes an optional integral separation device (636) (e.g., a perforation with a pull tab). When in use, after the formulation is depleted, the user pulls the pull tab of the integral separation device (636) to separate the valve frame (632) from the packet sleeve (630). Once this operation is complete, the packet sleeve (630) is recycled and the valve frame (632) is discarded. In some embodiments, the integral separation device (636) is placed in the main body portion (626), for example, the front portion (610) of the main body.

[0101] The packet sleeve (630) offers many advantages but is optional. In some embodiments, one or more of the above features of the packet sleeve (630) are integrally formed in the main body portion (626).

[0102] The valve frame (632) provides a rigid structure that supports the formulation packet valve (624) and the encryption chip (638) for accurate and rigid coupling with the formulation delivery device (particularly, together with its formulation dispensing assembly) and for accurate positioning of the encryption chip (638) adjacent to the cartridge interrogation interface of the formulation delivery device. Accordingly, the valve frame (632) is formed of ABS plastic, HDPE, or other rigid polymer or other material. A plurality of valve openings (640) extend through the front end of the valve frame (632). Each valve opening (640) accommodates and secures one of the formulation packet valves (624). To enable coupling with the packet sleeve (630) (or in some embodiments, the body part (626)), the valve frame (632) includes a coupling member (642) (e.g., a tab) extending therefrom.

[0103] An encryption chip (638) is placed on a disposable refill packet (604), for example, a main body portion (626) or a valve frame (632) (as in the illustrated embodiment). The encryption chip (638) is positioned on the disposable refill packet (604) so ​​that it is read by a cartridge interrogation interface when the formulation cartridge (600) is inserted into the formulation delivery device. Accordingly, the encryption chip (638) stores information about the formulation cartridge (600) and its contents, for example, at least one of an identifier of the formulation cartridge (600), formulation identification, starting formulation quantity, formulation expiration date, or formulation production date.

[0104] Accordingly, the main body portion (626), packet sleeve (630), formulation packet, and valve frame (632) form a disposable refill packet (604). When in use, the disposable refill packet (604) can be coupled inversely to the handle portion (602) by, for example, friction coupling and / or a plurality of optional coupling tabs (644) on the main body portion (626) or packet sleeve (630). The coupling tabs (644) engage with the handle portion (602) when the disposable refill packet (604) is inserted inside and hold the handle portion (602) inside until it is forcibly pulled out of the handle portion (602). To further assist in holding the disposable refill packet (604) inside the handle portion (602), the illustrated handle portion (602) includes one or more optional retaining elements (646) (in this embodiment, a deflectable tab that engages with the disposable refill packet (604)).

[0105] FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating aspects of non-limiting embodiments of a usage analysis system according to various aspects of the present invention. The illustrated usage analysis system (702) may be implemented by any computing device or set of computing devices including, but not limited to, a desktop computing device, a laptop computing device, a mobile computing device, a server computing device, a computing device of a cloud computing system, and / or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, at least some components of the usage analysis system (702) may be provided by a mobile device (302) or other elements of the platform (300) described above. In some embodiments, the usage analysis system (702) is configured to receive a signal generated by a formulation delivery device (104) to automatically determine one or more hair features for a target. In some embodiments, the usage analysis system (702) may associate hair features with an applied formulation product and may use correlation to determine a recommendation for a formulation product based on the detected hair features.

[0106] As described, the usage analysis system (702) includes one or more processors (704), one or more communication interfaces (706), a usage data storage unit (710), a model data storage unit (720), and a computer-readable medium (708).

[0107] As used herein, “data storage unit” means any suitable device configured to store data for access by a computing device. One example of a data storage unit is a highly reliable high-speed relational database management system (DBMS) that runs on one or more computing devices and is accessible via a high-speed network. Another example of a data storage unit is a key-value storage unit. However, any other suitable storage technology and / or device capable of providing stored data quickly and reliably in response to a query may be used, and the computing device may be accessible locally without a network or provided as a cloud-based service. A data storage unit may also include data stored in an organized manner on a computer-readable storage medium, such as a hard disk drive, flash memory, RAM, ROM, or any other type of computer-readable storage medium. Those skilled in the art will recognize, without departing from the scope of this disclosure, that individual data storage units described herein may be combined into a single data storage unit, or / or additionally, that a single data storage unit described herein may be separated into multiple data storage units.

[0108] In some embodiments, the processor (704) may include any suitable type of general-purpose computer processor. In some embodiments, the processor (704) may include one or more special-purpose computer processors or AI accelerators optimized for specific computing tasks, including but not limited to Graphics Processing Units (GPUs), Vision Processing Units (VPTs), and Tensor Processing Units (TPUs).

[0109] In some embodiments, the communication interface (706) includes one or more hardware and / or software interfaces suitable for providing a communication link between components. The communication interface (706) may support one or more wired communication technologies (including but not limited to Ethernet, FireWire, and USB), one or more wireless communication technologies (including but not limited to Wi-Fi, WiMAX, Bluetooth, 2G, 3G, 4G, 5G, and LTE), and / or a combination thereof.

[0110] As described, the computer-readable medium (708) stores the following logic and, in response to execution by one or more processors (704), causes the usage analysis system (702) to provide a usage collection engine (712), a model training engine (714), a recommender engine (716), and a feature detection engine (718).

[0111] In some embodiments, the use collection engine (712) is configured to receive a signal indicating the use of the formulation delivery system (100), including but not limited to a signal generated by the formulation delivery device (104), and to store the signal in the use data storage unit (710). In some embodiments, the model training engine (714) is configured to train one or more machine learning models based on the use information, and stores the trained models in the model data storage unit (720), including but not limited to at least one of a machine learning model trained to detect hair features and a recommendation model. In some embodiments, the recommendation engine (716) is configured to recommend formulation products using the recommendation model from the model data storage unit (720). In some embodiments, the feature detection engine (718) is configured to derive hair features from a target based on a signal generated by the formulation delivery device (104), and to do so, may use a machine learning model from the model data storage unit (720).

[0112] Further descriptions of the configuration of each of these components are provided below.

[0113] FIGS. 8a and 8b are flowcharts illustrating non-limiting embodiments of a method for collecting and using hair feature information according to various aspects of the present disclosure. In the method (800), a usage analysis system (702) receives a signal generated by a formulation delivery device (104) and uses the signal to automatically determine one or more hair features for a target. The automatically determined hair features are combined with information regarding a formulation product applied to the target's hair and stored in a usage data storage unit (710). The information stored in the usage data storage unit (710) is used to train a recommendation engine (716) to provide recommendations for formulation products for the target and other targets.

[0114] By automatically detecting hair feature information, the subject is relieved of the need to manually input this information, and the subject may lack the knowledge to provide it accurately. Additionally, automatically detected hair feature information may be more accurate than manually collected hair feature information. As a non-limiting example, the technique described below can distinguish the stiffness of various curls as different types of hair, whereas manually collected hair feature information may simply describe various types of curly hair as "curly hair." Likewise, automatically collecting information (including hair feature information and formulation product identification) eliminates errors that may occur from incorrectly identifying formulation products or hair features through manual input. Using this higher precision and more reliable information, the recommendation engine (716) is trained to provide more useful and effective recommendations, thereby improving the functionality of the system.

[0115] From the start block, the method (800) proceeds to a block (802) in which the user loads the formulation cartridge (108) into the formulation delivery device (104). As previously described, loading the formulation cartridge (108) into the formulation delivery device (104) brings the encryption chip (432) of the formulation cartridge (108) into the range of the cartridge interrogation interface (210).

[0116] In block (804), the cartridge query engine (230) of the formulation delivery device (104) determines the identifier of one or more formulation products to be dispensed from the formulation cartridge (108). In some embodiments, the cartridge interrogation engine (230) uses the cartridge interrogation interface (210) to read the identifier of one or more formulation products from the encryption chip (432). In some embodiments, the cartridge interrogation engine (230) may obtain a unique identifier from the encryption chip (432), query the data storage for the identifier of one or more formulation products based on the unique identifier, or provide the unique identifier as the identifier of one or more formulation products, and the upstream component may query the data storage using the unique identifier to determine the actual one or more formulation products.

[0117] In block (806), the formulation delivery device (104) transmits the identifier of one or more formulation products to the use analysis system (702). In some embodiments, the formulation delivery device (104) transmits the identifier of one or more formulation products to a mobile device (302), which in turn transmits the formulation products to the use analysis system (702) (or includes components of the use analysis system (702)). From the start block, the method (800) proceeds to block (802) in which the user loads the formulation cartridge (108) into the formulation delivery device (104). As previously described, loading the formulation cartridge (108) into the formulation delivery device (104) brings the encryption chip (432) of the formulation cartridge (108) into the range of the cartridge interrogation interface (210).

[0118] In block (804), the cartridge query engine (230) of the formulation delivery device (104) determines the identifier of one or more formulation products to be dispensed from the formulation cartridge (108). In some embodiments, the cartridge interrogation engine (230) uses the cartridge interrogation interface (210) to read the identifier of one or more formulation products from the encryption chip (432). In some embodiments, the cartridge interrogation engine (230) may obtain a unique identifier from the encryption chip (432), query the data storage for the identifier of one or more formulation products based on the unique identifier, or provide the unique identifier as the identifier of one or more formulation products, and the upstream component may query the data storage using the unique identifier to determine the actual one or more formulation products.

[0119] In block (806), the formulation delivery device (104) transmits the identifier of one or more formulation products to the use analysis system (702). In some embodiments, the formulation delivery device (104) transmits the identifier of one or more formulation products to a mobile device (302), which in turn transmits the formulation products to the use analysis system (702) (or includes components of the use analysis system (702)). From the start block, the method (800) proceeds to block (802) in which the user loads the formulation cartridge (108) into the formulation delivery device (104). As previously described, loading the formulation cartridge (108) into the formulation delivery device (104) brings the encryption chip (432) of the formulation cartridge (108) into the range of the cartridge interrogation interface (210).

[0120] In block (804), the cartridge query engine (230) of the formulation delivery device (104) determines the identifier of one or more formulation products to be dispensed from the formulation cartridge (108). In some embodiments, the cartridge interrogation engine (230) uses the cartridge interrogation interface (210) to read the identifier of one or more formulation products from the encryption chip (432). In some embodiments, the cartridge interrogation engine (230) may obtain a unique identifier from the encryption chip (432), query the data storage for the identifier of one or more formulation products based on the unique identifier, or provide the unique identifier as the identifier of one or more formulation products, and the upstream component may query the data storage using the unique identifier to determine the actual one or more formulation products.

[0121] In block (806), the formulation delivery device (104) transmits the identifier of one or more formulation products to the use analysis system (702). In some embodiments, the formulation delivery device (104) transmits the identifier of one or more formulation products to a mobile device (302), which in turn transmits the formulation products to the use analysis system (702) (or includes components of the use analysis system (702)).

[0122] In block (808), the use collection engine (712) of the use analysis system (702) stores identifiers of one or more formulation products in the use data storage unit (710). In some embodiments, the use collection engine (712) may generate a record in the use data storage unit (710) that associates one or more formulation products with identifiers of targets to which the formulation products are to be applied (e.g., user account, login information, email address, phone number, etc.).

[0123] In block (810), the user uses a formulation delivery device (104) to dispense and apply one or more formulation products to the hair of the target. In some embodiments, the user may be the same person as the target, as in the embodiment where the user applies one or more formulation products to their own hair using the formulation delivery device (104). In some embodiments, the user and the target may be different people, as in the embodiment where the user is a stylist using the formulation delivery device (104) to apply one or more formulation products to the client / target. When dispensing and applying one or more formulation products, the motor (218) drives the reciprocating nozzle assembly (222), and one or more formulation products are dispensed from a plurality of annular nozzles (518) of the reciprocating nozzle assembly (222).

[0124] In block (812), one or more sensors of the formulation delivery device (104) generate a signal indicating the application of the dispensed formulation product. In some embodiments, multiple different signals may be generated by different sensors of the formulation delivery device (104).

[0125] One non-limiting embodiment of a signal indicating the application of a dispensed formulation product is a signal generated by a position engine (238) based on the position of the platform (106) detected by a position sensor (216). In some embodiments, this signal may be a raw signal generated by the position sensor (216), whereas in other embodiments, this signal may be a three-dimensional indication of the position and orientation of the formulation delivery device (104) over time during application. Depending on various hair characteristics, including but not limited to thickness and curl type, the hair characteristics may be determined using a path that guides the formulation delivery device (104) to the user during the dispensing of the formulation product. For example, brushing tighter curls results in less smooth movement of the hair than brushing straight hair. As another example, instructions may be provided to the user to use different brushing patterns (e.g., a straight pattern for straight hair, a zigzag pattern for curly hair), and thus the movement of these different brushing patterns may be detected using position information and associated with hair characteristics.

[0126] Another non-limiting embodiment of a signal indicating the application of a dispensed formulation product is a signal generated by a power management engine (234) based on the power consumption of a motor (218). Depending on various hair characteristics, including but not limited to thickness, coarseness, and curl type, the amount of power consumed by the motor (218) may differ because the amount of physical resistance provided by hair having different characteristics may differ, or the power consumed by the motor (218) may vary somewhat depending on the hair characteristics (for example, the standard deviation of power consumption may be larger for curly hair and smaller for straight hair).

[0127] Therefore, a signal based on the power consumption of the motor (218) can be used to determine hair characteristics as described in more detail below.

[0128] Another non-limiting embodiment of a signal indicating the application of a dispensed formulation product is an audio signal generated by a microphone mounted on a formulation delivery device (104), a mobile device (302), or other suitable device. Depending on various hair characteristics, the sound produced when the comb (520) of the formulation delivery device (104) moves through the target's hair may differ. Thus, the audio signal may be used to determine one or more hair characteristics.

[0129] In block (814), the formulation delivery device (104) transmits information regarding the application of the dispensed formulation product to the use analysis system (702). In some embodiments, the information regarding the application of the dispensed formulation product may be an unprocessed signal indicating the application of the dispensed formulation product. In some embodiments, the information regarding the application of the dispensed formulation product may be processed information (e.g., three-dimensional position information derived from a signal generated by a position sensor (216)).

[0130] In block (816), the use collection engine (712) of the use analysis system (702) stores information regarding the application of the distributed formulation product in the use data storage unit (710). In some embodiments, information regarding the application of the distributed formulation product is stored (or associated) with the use record generated in block (808).

[0131] Subsequently, the method (800) proceeds to a successive terminal ("Terminal A"). From Terminal A (Fig. 8B), the method (800) proceeds to a block (818), where the feature detection engine (718) of the usage analysis system (702) determines one or more hair features for a target based on information stored in the usage data storage unit (710). In some embodiments, the feature detection engine (718) automatically determines one or more hair features based on information regarding the application of a distributed formulation product transmitted from block (814) and stored in the usage data storage unit (710) in block (816).

[0132] Any suitable technique may be used to determine hair characteristics based on information regarding the application of the dispensed formulation product ("application information"). In some embodiments, a range for the type of application information correlated with a specific hair characteristic may be established, and the application information may be compared to the range. As a non-limiting example, it may be empirically determined that power consumption for curly hair varies within a first range, and power consumption for straight hair varies within a second range. Accordingly, power consumption reported by the formulation delivery device (104) may be compared to these ranges, and hair characteristics (e.g., straight hair or curly hair) may be determined based on which range the reported power consumption falls into. As another non-limiting example, it may be empirically determined that the volume of an audio signal detected by a microphone is within the first range for straight hair and within the second range for curly hair, and the volume of the audio signal reported by the formulation delivery device (104) may be compared to these ranges to determine hair characteristics. In some embodiments, an empirical method outside the range may be used to associate hair characteristics and types of application information, including but not limited to maximum values, minimum values, the difference between maximum and minimum values, average values, standard deviations, and entropy.

[0133] In some embodiments, one or more machine learning models may be used to process application information to detect hair features. For example, power consumption information or location information may be provided as input to the machine learning model, and the machine learning model may provide an output that classifies types according to given hair features (e.g., curly vs. straight, coarse vs. smooth, thick vs. thin). Any suitable technique may be used to train such machine learning models, which includes, but is not limited to, collecting real-labeled training data from targets having known hair features and training the machine learning model using the real-labeled training data using gradient descent, an Adam optimizer, or other suitable technique. Additionally, any suitable type of machine learning model may be used, including but not limited to decision trees, naive Bayes classifiers, artificial neural networks, artificial recurrent neural networks (including but not limited to Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) networks), and convolutional neural networks.

[0134] For the sake of convenience of discussion, the above discussion simplifies hair characteristics to straight and curly hair. In some embodiments, hair characteristics may be specific curl types and curl amounts of an Andre Walker hair typing system (e.g., 1A-C type (straight), 2A-C type (wavy), 3A-C type (curly), or 4A-C type (tailed)), a LOIS hair typing system, a NaturallyCurly hair typing system, or any other hair typing system. In some embodiments, other hair characteristics, including but not limited to coarseness, density, thickness, length, texture, scalp condition, and degree of damage, may be automatically detected.

[0135] The above discussion also assumes that hair features belong to established / recognizable categories. In some embodiments, machine learning may be used to cluster hair features into categories that are not necessarily associated with established / recognizable categories. For example, through clustering analysis of application information, arbitrary categories for hair features (e.g., Type A hair, Type B hair, Type C hair) can be determined, where the application information implies that the subjects' hair is similar even if traditional hair features such as curl type and moisture content do not necessarily match.

[0136] In block (820), the feature detection engine (718) stores one or more hair features for a target in the use data storage unit (710). In some embodiments, the feature detection engine (718) may associate one or more hair features with an identifier of the target. In some embodiments, the feature detection engine (718) may also associate one or more hair features with information regarding the application of a dispensed formulation product.

[0137] In block (822), the use collection engine (712) collects additional information related to the subject and stores the additional information in the use data storage unit (710). The additional information may be associated with the identifier of the subject, information regarding the application of the distributed formulation product, or both in the use data storage unit (710). In some embodiments, the additional information may include grade information provided by the subject or user regarding the applied formulation product.

[0138] In some embodiments, additional information may include hair characteristics that cannot be automatically determined from application information, including but not limited to color, moisture content, damage, or style. In some embodiments, this additional information may be collected through survey responses entered by a user, or may be automatically collected from captured images of the subject or the subject's hair. In some embodiments, this additional information may be collected by a sensor, such as hair moisture information collected by a moisture sensor. In some embodiments, additional information may include environmental information regarding the environment to which the hair is or will be exposed, including but not limited to humidity levels, solar exposure, and ambient temperature. This environmental information may be collected by appropriate methods, including but not limited to querying a data storage unit containing environmental information regarding the subject's location, using a sensor that directly measures environmental information, or receiving environmental information through a questionnaire.

[0139] In block (824), the model training engine (714) of the usage analysis system (702) trains the recommendation engine (716) based on information stored in the usage data storage unit (710). In some embodiments, the recommendation engine (716) itself may be trained by the model training engine (714), whereas in other embodiments, the recommendation model may be trained by the model training engine (714), stored in the model data storage unit (720), and retrieved / used by the recommendation engine (716) where appropriate. Any technology may be used to implement the recommendation model and / or recommendation engine (716), including but not limited to collaborative filtering technology, content-based filtering technology, and hybrid technology. Additionally, any suitable technology for training may be used, including identifying target groups based on the similarity of provided evaluations or hair features.

[0140] In block (826), the usage analysis system (702) uses a recommendation engine (716) to provide notifications regarding at least one recommended formulation product for at least one target. In some embodiments, the usage analysis system (702) processes information from the usage data storage unit (710) (including, but not limited to, the target's hair characteristics) through the recommendation engine (716) to determine recommended products for the target that the target may not have previously used, and can send notifications of the recommended products to the target via email, text message, social media message, targeted advertisement, in-app notification, or other suitable technology. In some embodiments, the operation of block (826) may be performed at a predetermined rate (e.g., once a day, once a week, etc.). In some embodiments, the operation of block (826) may be performed for a given target once information about the target is stored in the usage data storage unit (710).

[0141] In some embodiments, other types of recommendations besides product recommendations may be provided by the recommendation engine (716). For example, in some embodiments, the formulation routine engine (226) operates the formulation dispensing assembly (214) according to the formulation routine, and the recommendation engine (716) may provide a new formulation routine as a recommendation that changes parameters of the formulation routine, such as routine length, liquid flow rate of the pump (220), reciprocating frequency or amplitude of the reciprocating nozzle assembly (222), or device operating parameters. As another example, in some embodiments, the recommendation may take the form of coaching provided to the user. As yet another example, in some embodiments, the recommendation may include ingredients for a customized formulation product to be formulated for a target.

[0142] As described, the method (800) proceeds to a termination block and terminates. In some embodiments, the method (800) (part thereof) may be repeated instead of proceeding to a termination block. For example, the usage analysis system (702) may use the recommendation engine (716) to provide notifications regarding one or more recommended formulation products multiple times to a target, an individual other than the target, or both the target and another target. As another example, the usage analysis system (702) may collect usage information associated with multiple targets before training the recommendation engine (716), or may retrain the recommender engine (716) after collecting usage information associated with additional targets.

[0143] Most of the description of the method (800) assumes, for clarity, that a single value for a given hair feature (e.g., curly hair, fine hair) will be determined for a given object. In some embodiments, multiple values ​​for a given hair feature may be determined for a given object. For example, a first curl type may be determined in a first area, and a second curl type may be determined in a second area. In some embodiments, the presence of each value for a hair feature may simply be detected and recorded, whereas in other embodiments, location information obtained from a location sensor (216) may be used to assign an area of ​​hair or head to be associated with each detected value of the hair feature.

[0144] The present application may refer to quantities and numbers. Unless specifically stated otherwise, such quantities and numbers are not to be limited and represent any possible quantities or numbers related to the present application. Additionally, in this regard, the term “plural” may be used in the present application to refer to quantities or numbers. In this regard, the term “plural” means any number greater than 1, e.g., 2, 3, 4, 5, etc. Terms such as “about,” “approximately,” “near,” etc. mean plus or minus 5% of a specified value. For the purposes of this disclosure, the phrase “at least one of A, B, and C” includes, e.g., (A), (B), (C), (A and B), (A and C), (B and C), or (A, B, C), and all possible additional permutations where elements greater than three are listed.

[0145] The embodiments disclosed herein may utilize circuits to implement the techniques and methodologies described herein, to operably connect two or more components, to generate information, to determine operating conditions, and to control devices, devices, or methods, etc. Any type of circuit may be used. In the embodiments, the circuit is, among other things, one or more computing devices such as a processor (e.g., a microprocessor), a central processing unit (CPU), a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or a field programmable gate array (FPGA), or any combination thereof, and may include separate digital or analog circuit elements or electronic devices, or a combination thereof.

[0146] In one embodiment, the circuit comprises one or more ASICs having a plurality of predefined logic components. In an embodiment, the circuit comprises one or more FPGAs having a plurality of programmable logic components. In an embodiment, the circuit comprises a hardware circuit implementation (e.g., an implementation of an analog circuit, an implementation of a digital circuit, etc., and combinations thereof). In one embodiment, the circuit comprises a combination of a circuit and a computer program product having software or firmware instructions stored in one or more computer-readable memories that work together to enable the device to perform one or more methodologies or techniques described herein. In one embodiment, the circuit comprises a circuit such as a microprocessor or a part of a microprocessor that requires software, firmware, etc. for operation. In an embodiment, the circuit comprises an implementation including one or more processors or parts thereof and accompanying software, firmware, hardware, etc. In one embodiment, the circuit comprises a baseband integrated circuit or an application processor integrated circuit or a similar integrated circuit of a server, a cellular network device, another network device, or another computing device. In an embodiment, the circuit comprises one or more remote location components. In an embodiment, the remote location components are operably connected via wireless communication. In an embodiment, a remotely located component is operably connected through one or more receivers, transmitters, transceivers, etc.

[0147] In an embodiment, the circuit includes one or more computer-readable media drives, interface sockets, Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports, memory card slots, etc., and includes one or more input / output components such as, for example, a graphical user interface, a display, a keyboard, a keypad, a trackball, a joystick, a touchscreen, a mouse, a switch, a dial, and other peripheral devices. In an embodiment, the circuit includes one or more user input / output components (electrical, electromechanical, software implementation, firmware implementation, or other control or a combination thereof) operably connected to at least one computing device to control one or more aspects of the embodiment.

[0148] In an embodiment, the circuit includes a computer-readable media drive or memory slot configured to accommodate a signal transmission medium (e.g., a computer-readable memory medium, a computer-readable recording medium, etc.). In one embodiment, a program for the system to execute any of the disclosed methods may be stored, for example, in a computer-readable recording medium (CRMM), a signal transmission medium, etc. Non-limiting examples of signal transmission media include transmission type media such as digital and / or analog communication media (e.g., fiber optic cables, waveguides), wired communication links, wireless communication links (e.g., transmitters, receivers, transceivers, transmission logic, reception logic, etc.), as well as all forms of recordable type media such as flash memory, magnetic tape, floppy disk, hard disk drive, compact disc (CD), digital video disc (DVD), Blu-ray disc, digital tape, computer memory, etc. Additional non-limiting examples of signal transmission 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 disc, MINIDISC, Non-volatile memory card, EEPROM, Optical disc, Optical storage, RAM, ROM, System memory, Web server, etc.

[0149] The detailed description above (where the same numbers refer to the same elements) in connection with the attached drawings is intended to describe various embodiments of the invention and is not intended to represent the only embodiment. Each embodiment described in this disclosure is provided merely as an example or example and should not be interpreted as being preferred or advantageous over other embodiments. The exemplary embodiments provided in this specification are not intended to limit or encompass the disclosure in the exact form disclosed. Similarly, 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 in this specification are non-limiting, and the inventors take into account that other embodiments within the scope of this disclosure may include structures and functions from one or more specific embodiments illustrated in the drawings and described in this specification.

[0150] In the foregoing description, specific details have been described to provide a complete understanding of the 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 implementing all specific details. In some cases, well-known process steps have not been described in detail 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.

[0151] The present application may include references to directions such as "vertical," "horizontal," "front," "back," "left," "right," "top," and "bottom." Such references and other similar references in the present application are intended to aid in describing and understanding specific embodiments (e.g., where the embodiments are arranged for use) and are not intended to limit the content of the present disclosure to these directions or locations.

[0152] The present application may refer to quantities and numbers. Unless specifically stated otherwise, such quantities and numbers are not to be considered limiting and are examples of possible quantities or numbers related to the present application. Additionally, in this regard, the term “plural” may be used in the present application to refer to quantities or numbers. In this regard, the term “plural” means any number greater than 1, e.g., 2, 3, 4, 5, etc. Terms such as “about,” “approximately,” etc. mean plus or minus 5% of a specified value. The term “based on” means “at least partially based on.”

[0153] The principles, representative embodiments, and modes of operation of the present invention have been described in the foregoing description. However, the aspects of the disclosure to be protected should not be interpreted as being limited to the specific embodiments disclosed. Furthermore, the embodiments described herein should be regarded as illustrative rather than restrictive. It will be understood that modifications and alterations may be made and equivalents adopted by others without departing from the spirit of the disclosure. Accordingly, it is expressly intended that all such modifications, alterations, and equivalents fall within the spirit and scope of the disclosure as claimed.

Claims

Claim 1 A computer-implemented method for automatically determining at least one hair feature for a subject, comprising the steps of: receiving signals from a formulation delivery device by a computing system that indicate the application of one or more distributed formulation products—the signals include signals indicating power consumed by a motor of the formulation delivery device while operating a reciprocating nozzle assembly of the formulation delivery device—; analyzing the signals by the computing system to automatically determine the at least one hair feature; and storing the at least one hair feature in a data storage unit by the computing system. Claim 2 A computer-implemented method according to claim 1, wherein analyzing the signals to automatically determine at least one hair feature comprises providing the signals as input to at least one machine learning model. Claim 3 A computer-implemented method according to claim 1, wherein the step of analyzing the signals to automatically determine at least one hair feature comprises the step of comparing the signals with one or more ranges associated with hair feature values. Claim 4 A computer-implemented method according to claim 1, further comprising the step of receiving additional information associated with the target by the computing system, wherein the additional information includes at least one of a moisture level and a color. Claim 5 A computer-implemented method according to claim 1, wherein at least one hair feature comprises: curl type; coarseness; density; thickness; length; texture; scalp condition; and amount of damage. Claim 6 A computer implementation method according to claim 1, further comprising the step of using at least the hair features stored in the usage data storage unit to train a recommendation engine. Claim 7 A computer-implemented method according to claim 1, further comprising the steps of: providing the at least one hair feature as an input to a recommendation engine to generate a recommendation by the computing system; and providing a notification of the recommendation to the target by the computing system. Claim 8 A system for automatically determining at least one hair feature of a target, wherein the system comprises a circuit configured to perform the operations of the method described in any one of claims 1 to 7. Claim 9 A formulation delivery device comprising: a motor; a formulation dispensing assembly including a reciprocating nozzle assembly operated by the motor; a circuit configured to generate signals indicating the application of one or more formulation products dispensed by the formulation dispensing assembly—the signals indicating the application of the formulation products dispensed by the formulation dispensing assembly include signals indicating power consumed by the motor while the reciprocating nozzle assembly is operating—; and a circuit configured to transmit the signals indicating the application of the formulation products to a use analysis system. Claim 10 A formulation delivery device according to claim 9, further comprising a position sensor, wherein the signals indicating the application of formulation products distributed by the formulation dispensing assembly include signals indicating the position of the formulation delivery device detected by the position sensor. Claim 11 In claim 9, a cartridge interrogation interface configured to retrieve information from a formulation cartridge inserted into the formulation delivery device; and a circuit formulation delivery device configured to transmit the information retrieved from the formulation cartridge to a use analysis system. Claim 12 A formulation delivery device according to claim 9, further comprising: a circuit for operating the motor to dispense the formulation product according to the formulation routine; and a circuit configured to receive a new formulation routine from the use analysis system based on hair characteristics determined using the signals indicating the application of the formulation products. Claim 13 delete Claim 14 delete

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