Device for removing dead or hard skin for use in medical care and personal care

Abstract

A device (1) for use by a person to remove callus(es) from the person's skin, a method of removing callus from skin and a use of the device for removing callus from skin. The device comprises: a housing (8) shaped and sized to be held in a hand of the person, the housing (8) contains an electric drive motor (18), and an electric battery (9), a disc (2) with an abrasive front side (4), the motor (18) is coupled to the disc (2), a sensor (11) for detecting light from an area of the skin of the person close to the disc (2) or under the disc (2), a processor (25) coupled to the electric battery (9), the electric motor 18, and the sensor (11), the processor (25) being configured to control operation of the electric motor (25), the processor (25) being configured to determine presence of callus or epidermis without callus in the area from the signal of the sensor (11), and the processor (25) being configured to stop the electric motor (18) when the processor (25) has determined that epidermis without callus is present in the area.

Description

[0001]DEVICE FOR REMOVING DEAD OR HARD SKIN FOR USE IN MEDICAL CARE AND PERSONAL CARE TECHNICAL FIELD The present disclosure relates to a device for removing hard or dead skin from the body in particular from the feet and is particularly suitable for diabetes patients and other patients that are at risk if developing cracks in hard skin. BACKGROUND People with diabetes often suffer from peripheral neuropathy, which reduces the sensation in their feet. This can make it difficult for them to feel pain or discomfort from hard skin or developing ulcers. Hard skin can create pressure points on the feet, which can lead to the development of ulcers. These ulcers can form under the calluses and go unnoticed due to reduced sensation. Ulcers and open sores are prone to infection. For diabetics, infections can spread more rapidly and be more difficult to treat due to compromised immune function and poor blood circulation. Diabetes can impair the body's ability to heal wounds. Hard skin and resulting ulcers may take much longer to heal, increasing the risk of complications. Severe infections and poorly healing ulcers can lead to tissue death. In extreme cases, this can necessitate amputation to prevent the spread of infection. Although neuropathy can reduce sensation, it can also cause burning pain, tingling, or sharp pains, which can be exacerbated by hard skin and calluses. Pain, ulcers, and infections can all lead to reduced mobility, affecting the individual’s ability to perform daily activities and exercise, which is crucial for managing diabetes. The combined effects of pain, mobility issues, and the constant need for medical attention can significantly reduce the quality of life for diabetes patients. Regular foot examinations by healthcare professionals are required to mitigate risks. Proper foot hygiene, including moisturizing to prevent hard skin. Wearing appropriate footwear to reduce pressure points. Addressing hard skin promptly and effectively in diabetes patients is crucial to prevent these serious consequences and maintain overall foot health. Within the field of hard skin removal different devices and methods are used in order to remove dead or hard skin, e.g. from the feet. These known devices comprise a moving abrasive surface that is applied to the dead skin. With these devices the user must be very careful as, in particular the high speed may give burns, or lead to excessive removal of skin and painful areas on the treated parts. These risks are likely acceptable for healthy persons. However, for diabetic patients both the risk of cracks and subsequent infections that do not heal well and the risk of either removing to much or too little dead skin by self-treatment is unacceptable due to the likeliness that any form of wounds to the feed of diabetic patients are likely not to heal well and give rise to complications, e.g. infections. Accordingly, the typical diabetic patient gets foot treatment every 4 to 8 weeks depending on age and health level, i.e. they visit a clinic approximately 7 to 13 times during a year, which causes a great resource burden on the health system. US2016 / 0262797 discloses a device according to the preamble of claim 1. Hence, an improved device to remove dead or hard skin, e.g. from the feet, that overcomes or at least reduces the drawbacks listed above, in particular a device that allows diabetic patients to remove callus(es) themselves is desired. SUMMARY It is an object to provide a device for removing callus(es), such as dead or hard skin cells, from the skin of the user of the device, e.g. from their feet, that solves or at least reduces the above-mentioned problems associated with the prior art. According to a first aspect, there is provided a device for use by a person to remove callus from the person’s skin, the device comprising: a housing shaped and sized to be held in a hand of the person while using the device, the housing contains an electric drive motor, and an electric battery, a disc with a rear side and an abrasive front side, at least the front side of the disc being exposed from the housing, the electric drive motor being coupled to the disc to impart rotation on the disc, a sensor configured for detecting light from an area of the skin of the person close to the disc or under the disc, the sensor generating a signal representative of the light detected by the sensor, a processor coupled to the electric battery, the electric motor, and the sensor, the processor being configured to control the operation of the electric motor, the processor being configured to determine presence of callus or epidermis without callus in the area from the signal of the sensor, and the processor being configured to stop the electric motor when the processor has determined that epidermis without callus is present in the area. By automatically stopping the motor when the area of the skin to which the abrasive disc is applied does not have callous, i.e. is epidermis without callus, the risk of the user creating wounds and damaging the skin by overtreatment with the device is removed or at least largely reduced. In a possible implementation form, the processor is configured to distinguish between callus / hard dead skin and epidermis by comparing light reflected from the area to be treated with a reference, and / or by detecting the wavelength and / or spectrum of reflected and caught by the sensor. A Callus is a hard thick area of skin. Calluses / hard skin constitutes dead skin cells, whereas live skin epidermis constitutes live cells with blood stream - this causes a difference in light reflection: live skin reflects reddish light, whereas callus / dead skin cells reflect white / less red In a possible implementation form of the first aspect, the processor is configured to start the electric motor upon receipt of a signal, preferably a signal from a switch. In a possible implementation form of the first aspect, the device comprises a light source directed to the area, the light source preferably being powered by the electric battery and controlled by the processor. Directing a light from the light source to the area of the processor to be configured to distinguish between callus(es) / hard dead skin and epidermis by measuring and correlating the difference in light re-emission from the light source emitting a light beam on the skin surface and detecting the light coloring in the reflected light caught by the sensor. In a possible implementation form of the first aspect, the sensor comprises a photocell. In a possible implementation form of the first aspect, the sensor comprises a camera. In a possible implementation form of the first aspect, the processor is configured to determine the presence of hard skin as a function of the wavelength of the light captured by the sensor. In a possible implementation form of the first aspect, the sensor comprises a camera for obtaining at least one digital image of the area and wherein the processor, is configured to process the at least one digital image using a statistical object detection algorithm executed on the processor to calculate the likelihood of callus being present in the area, and processor being configured to determine the presence of callus or epidermis without callus based on the likelihood of callus being present in the area, and the processor being configured to stop the electric motor if the assessor has determined that epidermis without callus is present in the area. In a possible implementation form of the first aspect, the at least one digital image is a high-resolution color photograph, preferably in the RGB or RGBA color space. In a possible implementation form of the first aspect, the statistical object detection algorithm uses a neural network model, more preferably a convolutional neural network model. In a possible implementation form of the first aspect, the disc is transparent to light of the wavelength that is captured by the sensor, preferably light with the wavelength that creates the signal of the sensor used by the processor to determine presence of callus or epidermis without callus. In a possible implementation form of the first aspect, the light source is configured to emit light to the area, preferably through the disc, the disc being transparent to at least a portion of the light emitted by the light source. In a possible implementation form of the first aspect, the sensor is arranged to detect light that is reflected from the area of the skin under the disc and reaches the sensor thought the disc. In a possible implementation form of the first aspect, the material of the disc is glass, preferably selected from flat glass, pressed glass, or hardened glass. In a possible implementation form of the first aspect, the abrasive side has a roughness in the range of 5-150 μm, such as in the range of 10-100 μm e.g. in the range of 20-90 μm, such as in the range of 30-80 μm, e.g. in the range of 40-70 μm. In a possible implementation form of the first aspect, the processor is configured to operate the disc with a rotational speed in the range of 100-2000 rpm, such as in the range of 200- 1750 RPM, e.g. in the range of 300-1500, such as in the range of 400-1250 RPM, e.g. in the range of 500-1000, such as in the range of 550-750 RPM, e.g. in the range of 600-700 RPM. In a possible implementation form of the first aspect, the processor is configured to control the torque applied to the disk in the range of 0.19 to 0.22 newton meter, such as in the range of 0.2 to 0.21 newton meter. In a possible implementation form of the first aspect, the disc has a diameter in the range of 25 to 35 mm and preferably a roughness in the range of 5-150 μm. In a possible implementation form of the first aspect, the sensor comprises a camera configured for taking still images and / or video, the device comprising a wireless transmitter, the processor being configured to transmit the still images and / or video from the camera, preferably to a wireless receiver. These and other aspects will be apparent from the examples and embodiments described below. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS In the following detailed portion of the present disclosure, the aspects, embodiments, and implementations will be explained in more detail with reference to the example embodiments shown in the drawings, in which: Fig. 1 shows a device with an abrasive disk according to an embodiment in a diagrammatic cut-open side view, Fig. 2 shows the abrasive front side of the disc of the device of the embodiment of Fig. 1, Fig. 3 shows the rear side of the abrasive disk of Fig. 2 that faces the device, Fig. 4 shows a device with an abrasive disk according to another embodiment in a diagrammatic cut-open side view, Fig. 5 shows a bottom view of the device of Fig. 1, Fig. 6 shows a large toe with hard skin, Fig. 7 shows the large toe of Fig. 6 after the hard skin has been removed, and Fig. 8 shows flowchart of an embodiment of a method for removing callus. DETAILED DESCRIPTION The present disclosure relates to a device 1 designed for the removal of callus from the skin. This device 1 comprises several components, each contributing to its functionality and efficiency. A housing 8 may be provided, which serves as the main body of the device 1, offering a structure that accommodates the other components. Within this housing 8, an electric drive motor may be located. This motor, when activated, can generate the mechanical force that drives the operation of the device 1. An electric battery 9 may be included within the housing 8, supplying the power that the electric drive motor requires to function. This battery can be rechargeable, allowing for repeated use of the device 1 without the constant replacement of power sources. A disc 2 with an abrasive front side 4 may be attached to the electric drive motor. When the motor is in operation, the disc 2 may rotate, and its abrasive front side 4 can come into contact with the skin, effectively removing callus. A sensor 11 may be incorporated into the device 1, capable of detecting the pressure applied by the device 1 on the skin. This sensor 11 can provide real-time feedback, enabling the device 1 to adjust its operation based on the detected pressure. A processor 25 may be included, which can receive the feedback from the sensor 11 and control the operation of the electric drive motor accordingly. This processor 25 can adjust the speed of the motor, and consequently, the disc 2, based on the pressure detected by the sensor 11, ensuring a safe and effective callus removal process. In some aspects, the device 1 may offer a user-friendly and efficient solution for callus removal, potentially reducing the risk of skin damage and enhancing the user's comfort during the process. The integration of the sensor 11 and processor 25 may allow for an automated adjustment of the device's operation, potentially improving its safety and effectiveness. For diabetes patients, the device 1 offers a particularly advantageous solution for maintaining foot health. Due to the impaired sensation caused by peripheral neuropathy, diabetes patients are at a higher risk of inadvertently injuring their skin during callus removal. The device's ability to automatically stop the motor when healthy epidermis is detected minimizes the risk of over-exfoliation and skin damage. This feature is especially beneficial for diabetes patients, as it helps prevent the formation of wounds or ulcers that can lead to severe complications due to their compromised healing capacity. Furthermore, the device's precise control over the removal process allows diabetes patients to safely perform routine foot care at home, reducing the frequency of professional medical visits and thereby alleviating the resource burden on healthcare systems. Referring to Figs. 1-4, the device 1 may include a housing 8, which is shaped and sized to be comfortably held in a hand of a user. The housing 8 may contain several components that contribute to the operation of the device 1. In some cases, an electric motor 18 and an electric battery 9 may be housed within the housing 8. The electric motor 18 may be coupled to a disc 2, which may have an abrasive front side 4. Upon activation of the electric motor 18, the disc 2 may be caused to rotate, with the abrasive front side 4 coming into contact with the skin to remove callus. In the present embodiment, the electric motor 18 is connected to the disk via a reduction gear 16. A driveshaft 17 of the electric motor 18 is coupled to the reduction gear 16 and a connection shaft 15 connects the disc 2 to the reduction gear 16. However, it should be understood that the electric motor 18 could also be coupled directly to the disc 2. In some aspects, the device 1 may also include a sensor 11 and a processor 25. The sensor 11 may be configured to detect light from an area 21 of the skin close to or under the disc 2. The sensor 11 may generate a signal representative of the light detected, which may be sent to the processor 25. The processor 25 may be coupled to the electric battery 9, the electric motor 18, and the sensor 11. In some cases, the processor 25 may be configured to start the electric motor 18 upon receipt of a signal, which may be a signal from a switch 12 coupled to the processor 25 or another component. The switch may be a push button switch or a toggle button switch. The processor 25 may control the operation of the electric motor 18, which in turn controls the rotation of the disc 2. In some cases, the processor 25 may operate the disc 2 with a rotational speed in the range of 100-2000 rpm. This range may allow for a variety of speeds that can be adjusted based on the specific requirements of the user or the condition of the skin. In some aspects, the processor 25 may also control the torque applied to the disc 2. The torque may be in the range of 0.19 to 0.22 newton meter. This range may provide a balance between the force applied to the skin and the comfort of the user, ensuring an effective yet gentle callus removal process. In some aspects, the processor 25 may include a microprocessor and other hardware components such as integrated circuits for signal processing and control logic. The microprocessor may be a central processing unit (CPU) capable of executing instructions to perform the various functions as described, including controlling the electric motor 18, processing signals from the sensor 11, and executing the statistical object detection algorithm. The processor 25 may also include memory components, such as random access memory (RAM) for temporary data storage and read-only memory (ROM) for storing firmware and permanent data. The software utilized by the processor 25 may include an operating system that manages the hardware resources and provides services for the software applications. Additionally, the software may comprise specialized programs or algorithms, such as the statistical object detection algorithm, which may be implemented using machine learning techniques, including neural network models like convolutional neural networks (CNNs). These algorithms are designed to analyze digital images captured by the sensor 11, identify patterns indicative of callus presence, and make decisions based on the analysis to control the operation of the device 1. Furthermore, the processor 25 may be equipped with communication software to handle the transmission of data, such as still images and video captured by the sensor 11, via a wireless transmitter to a wireless receiver. This software may include protocols for secure data transmission and may be compatible with various wireless communication standards. The processor 25 may also include software for interfacing with user input devices, such as the switch 12, to receive user commands and respond accordingly. Referring to Figs. 1-3, there is depicted various views of a device 1 designed for removing callus from the skin. Fig. 1 shows a side view of the device 1, illustrating the internal components and their arrangement. The device 1 includes a housing 8 that contains an electric battery 9, an electric motor 18, a processor 25, a sensor 11, a switch 12, a connection shaft 15, a reduction gear 16, a driveshaft 17, and a light source 20. The disc 2, with its abrasive front side 4, is connected to the connection shaft 15 and is exposed from the housing 8. The sensor 11 is positioned to detect light from the area 21 of the skin, which may be wet skin 30. Fig. 2 provides a front view of the disc 2, highlighting the abrasive front side 4. Fig. 3 shows the rear view of the disc 2, displaying the connection shaft 15. In this embodiment, the sensor 11 and the light source 20 are arranged adjacent to the abrasive disc 2, so that the light emitted by the light emitter 20 and received by the sensor 11 does not need to go through the abrasive disc 2. In the embodiment of Fig. 5, three sets of sensors 11 and light emitters 20 are arranged around the abrasive disc 2, preferably approximately equally circumferentially spaced, to allow early detection of skin without callus for all directions in which the user moves the abrasive disc over the skin. The figure depicts an orthogonal bottom view of a device 1 for removing callus from the skin. The device 1 includes a disc 2 with the abrasive front side 4 at least partially protruding from the housing 8. Surrounding the disc 2 are multiple sensors 11 and light sources 20, which are strategically placed to detect and illuminate the area of the skin being treated. The housing 8 is designed to be held in the hand of the user, providing a stable and ergonomic grip during operation. The sensors 11 are configured to detect light from the area of the skin, while the light sources 20 provide the necessary illumination for accurate detection and operation. Fig. 4 presents another side view of the device 1, according to another embodiment, with additional emphasis on the interaction between the disc 2, the sensor 11, and the light source 20. In this embodiment, the sensor 11 and the light emitter 20 are arranged above the abrasive disc 2, and the light emitter 20 emits light to the area of the skin through the abrasive disc 2 and the sensor detects light that is reflected from the area of the skin and passes through the abrasive disc 2 to the sensor 11. Accordingly, this embodiment requires an abrasive disc that is allows the light of the light emitter 20 and the light reflected from this area of the skin to pass through the disc. Hereto, at least a portion of the abrasive disc 2 should be transparent for the life that is used. Alternatively, the abrasive disc 2 can be provided with one or more holes that allow intermittent passage of the light from the light emitter 20 and to the sensor 11. The processor 25 controls the operation of the electric motor 18 based on the signals from the sensor 11, ensuring the device 1 stops when it detects epidermis without callus in the area 21. Fig. 4 shows a device 1 with an abrasive disk 2 according to another embodiment in a diagrammatic cut-open side view. In this embodiment In some aspects, the device 1 may include a light source 20 that is directed towards the area 21. The light source 20 may be configured to emit light, which can illuminate the area 21 of the skin that is close to or under the disc 2. In some cases, the light source 20 may emit light through the disc 2, which may be transparent to at least a portion of the light emitted by the light source 20. This feature may enhance the visibility of the area 21, potentially improving the accuracy of callus detection and removal. In some aspects, the device 1 may include a sensor 11 that is configured to detect light. The sensor 11 may be arranged to detect light that is reflected from the area 21 of the skin under the disc 2. The detected light may reach the sensor 11 through the disc 2, which may be transparent to the light of the wavelength that is captured by the sensor 11. This arrangement may allow the sensor 11 to accurately detect the presence of callus(es) or epidermis without callus in the area 21, contributing to the safety and effectiveness of the device 1. In some cases, the sensor 11 may comprise a photocell. The photocell may be sensitive to the light emitted by the light source 20 and reflected from the area 21. The photocell may generate a signal representative of the light detected, which may be sent to the processor 25. The processor 25 may then determine the presence of callus or epidermis without callus in the area 21 based on the signal from the photocell. In other cases, the sensor 11 may comprise a camera. The camera may capture digital images of the area 21, providing a visual representation of the skin close to or under the disc 2. The processor 25 may process these images to determine the presence of callus(es) or epidermis without callus in the area 21. This feature may provide a more detailed and accurate detection of callus, potentially enhancing the performance of the device 1. In some aspects, the processor 25 may be configured to determine the presence of hard skin as a function of the wavelength of light captured by the sensor 11. This feature may allow the device 1 to differentiate between callus and healthy skin, potentially enhancing the accuracy of callus removal. The sensor 11 may capture light reflected from the area 21 of the skin, and the processor 25 may analyze the wavelength of this light to determine the presence of hard skin. This analysis may be based on the principle that hard skin and healthy skin reflect light differently, with hard skin typically reflecting light of a different wavelength than healthy skin. In some cases, the sensor 11 may comprise a camera capable of obtaining at least one digital image of the area 21. The camera may capture high-resolution color photographs, potentially in the RGB or RGBA color space. These images may provide a detailed visual representation of the skin close to or under the disc 2, potentially enhancing the accuracy of callus detection. The processor 25 may be configured to process the digital images captured by the camera using a statistical object detection algorithm. This algorithm may be executed on the processor 25 to calculate the likelihood of callus being present in the area 21. The processor 25 may then determine the presence of callus or epidermis without callus based on this likelihood. In some aspects, the statistical object detection algorithm may use a neural network model, more specifically a convolutional neural network model. This model may be capable of recognizing patterns in the digital images that correspond to the presence of callus, potentially enhancing the accuracy of callus detection. The processor 25, as part of its configuration, is designed to process digital images that are captured by the camera. This processing involves the use of a statistical object detection algorithm. The algorithm is executed on the processor 25 and is used to calculate the likelihood of the presence of callus in the area 21. This calculation is based on the analysis of the digital images and the patterns they contain. Once the likelihood of callus presence has been calculated, the processor 25 then determines whether callus or epidermis without callus is present in the area 21. This determination is based on the calculated likelihood. If the likelihood indicates the presence of callus, the processor 25 will continue to operate the electric motor 18, allowing the device 1 to continue removing the callus. However, if the likelihood indicates the presence of epidermis without callus, the processor 25 will stop the electric motor 18, preventing the device 1 from removing healthy skin. In some aspects, the statistical object detection algorithm used by the processor 25 may utilize a neural network model. More specifically, the algorithm may use a convolutional neural network model. This type of model is capable of recognizing patterns in the digital images that correspond to the presence of callus. The use of a convolutional neural network model can potentially enhance the accuracy of callus detection by the device 1. This is because convolutional neural networks are particularly adept at analyzing visual data and identifying patterns within that data. Therefore, by using a convolutional neural network model, the device 1 can more accurately determine whether callus or epidermis without callus is present in the area 21, thereby enhancing the safety and effectiveness of the device 1. In addition to the aforementioned features, the device 1 may be equipped with wireless communication capabilities, enabling it to transmit the high-resolution digital images captured by the camera sensor 11 to an application on a mobile device 1. This application can be designed to receive and store the images for further analysis. Such a feature allows for the remote monitoring of the skin's condition by medical professionals, who can access the transmitted images through the application. This can be particularly advantageous for diabetes patients, as it facilitates timely and accurate assessments of their skin health, potentially preventing the development of serious complications. Moreover, this capability can enhance the communication between patients and healthcare providers, allowing for more personalized and efficient medical care. In some cases, the sensor 11 may comprise a camera capable of taking still images and / or video. The device 1 may include a wireless transmitter, allowing the still images and / or video captured by the camera to be transmitted wirelessly. This feature may allow the user to view the images or video on a separate device, potentially enhancing the user's understanding of the callus removal process. The processor 25 may be configured to control the transmission of the images or video, ensuring that the images or video are transmitted at appropriate times and to the appropriate device. Referring to Figs. 1-4, the disc 2 may be transparent to light of the wavelength that is captured by the sensor 11. This transparency may allow the light reflected from the area 21 of the skin to pass through the disc 2 and reach the sensor 11, potentially enhancing the accuracy of callus detection. In some cases, the disc 2 may be made of glass, which is known for its transparency and durability. The glass may be selected from various types, such as flat glass, pressed glass, or hardened glass, depending on the specific requirements of the device 1. The front side 4 of the disc 2 may comprise a glass surface. This surface may be abrasive, allowing it to effectively remove callus when the disc 2 is rotated by the electric motor 18. The abrasiveness of the front side 4 may be achieved by creating a rough texture on the glass surface. In some aspects, the front side 4 may have a roughness in the range of 5-150 μm. This range may provide a balance between the effectiveness of callus removal and the comfort of the user, ensuring a gentle yet efficient operation of the device 1. In some cases, the disc 2 may have a diameter in the range of 25 to 35 mm. This range may allow the disc 2 to cover a sufficient area of the skin, potentially improving the efficiency of callus removal. The size of the disc 2 may be selected based on the specific requirements of the device 1, such as the size of the housing 8 or the power of the electric motor 18. In some aspects, the device 1 may be used to remove callus from the skin of a person. This may involve applying the rotating disc 2 to an area 21 of the skin of the person with callus. The abrasive front side 4 of the disc 2 may come into contact with the skin, effectively removing the callus as the disc 2 rotates. The rotation of the disc 2 may be controlled by the electric motor 18, which may be activated and regulated by the processor 25. In some cases, the processor 25 may be configured to stop the electric motor 18 when epidermis without callus is detected in the area 21. This may be determined based on the signal received from the sensor 11, which may detect light from the area 21 of the skin. The sensor 11 may generate a signal representative of the light detected, which may be sent to the processor 25. The processor 25 may then analyze the signal to determine the presence of callus or epidermis without callus in the area 21. If the processor 25 determines that epidermis without callus is present in the area 21, it may stop the electric motor 18, thereby halting the rotation of the disc 2. This feature may prevent over-exfoliation and potential damage to the healthy skin, enhancing the safety and effectiveness of the device 1. In some aspects, the front side 4 of the disc 2 may be applied to wet skin 30. The wet skin 30 may be the skin of a person that has been moistened prior to the application of the device 1. The moisture on the skin may enhance the effectiveness of the callus removal process, potentially allowing for a smoother and more comfortable experience for the user. The wet skin 30 may also facilitate the detection of light by the sensor 11, potentially improving the accuracy of callus detection. In some cases, the device 1 may be used to remove callus from the skin of a diabetes patient. Diabetes patients may be prone to developing callus due to the changes in skin condition caused by the disease. The device 1 may offer a safe and effective solution for callus removal for these patients, potentially preventing the formation of wounds or ulcers that can lead to severe complications. The automatic stopping mechanism of the device 1 when epidermis without callus is detected may be particularly beneficial for diabetes patients, as it may minimize the risk of over-exfoliation and skin damage. This feature may allow diabetes patients to safely perform routine foot care at home, potentially reducing the frequency of professional medical visits and thereby alleviating the resource burden on healthcare systems. Referring to Figs. 5-7, the device 1 may be viewed from an orthogonal bottom perspective, providing a clear view of the disc 2 and its arrangement with respect to the other components. The disc 2, with its abrasive front side 4, may be at least partially protruding from the housing 8. This arrangement may allow the disc 2 to come into direct contact with the skin during the operation of the device 1, effectively removing callus. In some aspects, the device 1 may include multiple sensors 11 and light sources 20, which may be strategically placed around the disc 2. This arrangement may enhance the detection and illumination of the area of the skin being treated, potentially improving the accuracy and effectiveness of callus removal. The sensors 11 may be configured to detect light from the area of the skin, while the light sources 20 may provide the illumination that the sensors 11 require for accurate detection. During the operation of the device 1, the disc 2 may be rotated by the electric motor 18, causing the abrasive front side 4 to come into contact with the skin. The sensors 11 may detect light from the area of the skin close to or under the disc 2, generating a signal that is representative of the light detected. This signal may be sent to the processor 25, which may control the operation of the electric motor 18 based on the signal from the sensors 11. In some cases, the device 1 may be applied to an area of the skin with callus. The rotating disc 2, with its abrasive front side 4, may come into contact with the callus, effectively removing it. The sensors 11 may continuously monitor the area of the skin being treated, detecting changes in the light reflected from the skin as the callus is removed. The processor 25 may analyze the signals from the sensors 11, determining the presence of callus or epidermis without callus in the area. If the processor 25 determines that epidermis without callus is present in the area, it may stop the electric motor 18, thereby halting the rotation of the disc 2. This feature may prevent over-exfoliation and potential damage to the healthy skin, enhancing the safety and effectiveness of the device 1. In some aspects, the appearance of the skin may change before and after the treatment with the device 1. Before the treatment, the skin may have a rough and hardened texture due to the presence of callus. After the treatment, the skin may appear smoother and softer, indicating the successful removal of callus. The sensors 11 may detect these changes in the appearance of the skin, providing feedback to the processor 25, which may adjust the operation of the device 1 accordingly. This feature may allow the device 1 to adapt to the specific conditions of the skin, potentially enhancing the comfort and satisfaction of the user. According to an example not covered by the claims, there is provided a method for removing calluses from the skin that involves using a device 1, as shown in Fig. 8. The processor 25 is programmed to determine and determines the presence of calluses or healthy skin in the area 21 and stops the motor 18 when healthy skin is detected. The method involves starting the electric motor 18 to rotate the disc 2, placing the rotating disc 2 on the callused area of the wet skin, and allowing the processor 25 to automatically stop the motor 18 when healthy skin is detected in the area 21. The method begins with the user holding the device 1, which includes a housing 8 shaped and sized to be comfortably held in the user's hand. The housing 8 contains an electric motor 18 powered by an electric battery 9. Attached to the electric motor 18 is a disc 2 with an abrasive front side 4, which is exposed from the housing 8. The user starts the electric motor 18, causing the disc 2 to rotate. The rotating disc 2 is then applied to an area 21 of the wet skin with callus. A sensor 11, configured to detect light from the area 21 close to or under the disc 2, sends a signal to a processor 25. The processor 25, coupled to the electric battery 9, the electric motor 18, and the sensor 11, controls the operation of the electric motor 18. The processor 25 determines the presence of callus or epidermis without callus in the area 21 based on the signal from the sensor 11. The method continues with the application of the rotating disc 2 to the callused area until the processor 25 stops the electric motor 18 upon determining that epidermis without callus is present in the area 21, indicating the callus has been successfully removed. In some aspects, the disc 2 may be composed of an abrasive material. This abrasive material may be made of a silicate material, a ceramic material, a plastic material, or a combination thereof. These materials may offer durability and resistance to wear, potentially enhancing the longevity of the disc 2. The abrasive material may be selected based on the specific requirements of the device 1, such as the desired level of abrasiveness or the compatibility with the electric motor 18. The front side 4 of the disc 2 may comprise an abrasive part. This abrasive part may include a smooth surface with particles attached. These particles may be selected from a variety of materials, such as sand, glass, plastic, or metal. The particles may provide the rough texture that is effective in removing callus from the skin. The selection of the particles may be based on the specific requirements of the device 1, such as the desired level of abrasiveness or the compatibility with the skin. In some cases, the abrasive material of the disc 2 and the connecting material may be made of the same materials. This may provide consistency in the properties of the disc 2, potentially enhancing its performance. In other cases, the abrasive material of the disc 2 and the connecting material may be made of different materials. This may allow for a combination of properties that enhance the performance of the disc 2. For instance, the connecting material may be made of a material that offers flexibility, while the abrasive material may be made of a material that offers hardness. In yet other cases, the abrasive material of the disc 2 and the connecting material may be made in one material. This may simplify the manufacturing process of the disc 2, potentially reducing its cost. In some aspects, the abrasive material of the disc 2 may have specific dimensions. The diameter of the abrasive material may be in the range of 25-35 mm. This range may allow the disc 2 to cover a sufficient area of the skin, potentially improving the efficiency of callus removal. The thickness of the abrasive material may be in the range of 5.5-6.5 mm. This range may provide a balance between the durability of the disc 2 and the comfort of the user, ensuring a gentle yet effective operation of the device 1. The dimensions of the abrasive material may be selected based on the specific requirements of the device 1, such as the size of the housing 8 or the power of the electric motor 18. In some aspects, the abrasive part of the front side 4 of the disc 2 may be provided by a chemical treatment, such as etching. This process may involve applying a chemical solution to the front side 4 of the disc 2, which may react with the material of the disc 2 to create a rough texture. The chemical solution may be selected based on the specific requirements of the device 1, such as the desired level of abrasiveness or the compatibility with the material of the disc 2. In other cases, the abrasive part of the front side 4 of the disc 2 may be provided by a mechanical treatment, such as sanding. This process may involve applying a rough material to the front side 4 of the disc 2, which may create a rough texture on the surface of the disc 2. The rough material may be selected based on the specific requirements of the device 1, such as the desired level of abrasiveness or the compatibility with the material of the disc 2. In some aspects, the abrasive material of the disc 2 and the connecting material may be made in one material. This may be achieved by a variety of manufacturing processes, such as molding, casting, or 3-D printing. These processes may allow for the creation of the disc 2 and the connecting material in a single step, potentially simplifying the manufacturing process and reducing the cost of the device 1. In some cases, the rear side of the disc 2 and the attaching part of the connecting material may be joined. This may be achieved by a variety of methods, such as gluing, welding, or mechanical fastening. In some aspects, gluing may be preferred due to its simplicity and effectiveness. The glue may be selected based on the specific requirements of the device 1, such as the compatibility with the materials of the disc 2 and the connecting material, or the desired strength of the bond. In some aspects, the disc 2 may comprise two abrasive parts, an abrasive front side 4 and an abrasive back side. These abrasive parts may have different roughness or the same roughness for both sides. The roughness of the abrasive parts may be selected based on the specific requirements of the device 1, such as the desired level of abrasiveness or the compatibility with the skin. The abrasive parts may be effective in removing callus from the skin when the disc 2 is rotated by the electric motor 18. In some cases, the disc 2 may be attached to the housing 8 via a connecting material. The connecting material may comprise an attaching part and a coupling part. The attaching part may comprise gripping elements to fix the disc 2 to the attaching part. These gripping elements may engage with a curve structure on the edge of the disc 2, ensuring a secure attachment of the disc 2 to the connecting material. In other aspects, the coupling part of the connecting material may be provided with a tongue. This tongue may engage with a groove on the housing 8, allowing the housing 8 to be connected to the disc 2 via the coupling part of the connecting material. This arrangement may provide a secure and stable connection between the housing 8 and the disc 2, potentially enhancing the performance of the device 1. In some aspects, the connecting material may be made of a flexible material, such as rubber or plastic. This flexibility may allow the connecting material to accommodate variations in the shape or size of the disc 2 or the housing 8, potentially improving the fit and stability of the connection. The material of the connecting material may be selected based on the specific requirements of the device 1, such as the desired flexibility or the compatibility with the materials of the disc 2 and the housing 8. In some cases, the connecting material may be made of a durable material, such as metal or hard plastic. This durability may enhance the longevity of the connecting material, potentially extending the lifespan of the device 1. The material of the connecting material may be selected based on the specific requirements of the device 1, such as the desired durability or the compatibility with the materials of the disc 2 and the housing 8. In some aspects, the housing 8 may be provided with a groove. This groove may be designed to accommodate a tongue, which may be a part of the connecting material. The groove may be provided with holding means, such as a latch or a clip, to secure the tongue within the groove. In some cases, the holding means may be designed such that the tongue leaves the groove simply by the force of gravity. This feature may facilitate the detachment of the disc 2 from the housing 8, potentially simplifying the maintenance or replacement of the disc 2. In some cases, the housing 8 may serve as a handle for the device 1. The housing 8 may be shaped and sized to be comfortably held in a hand of a user, potentially enhancing the user's control over the device 1. The housing 8 may also serve as an electrical device, providing the moving action to the disc 2. This may be achieved by housing the electric motor 18 within the housing 8, which may be coupled to the disc 2 to impart rotation on the disc 2. In some aspects, the housing 8 may be made of a water-resistant material, such as plastic or rubber. This material may protect the components housed within the housing 8 from water damage, potentially enhancing the durability of the device 1. All connecting areas, such as the groove and the tongue, may be sealed to prevent water ingress. This feature may make the device 1 waterproof, potentially allowing the device 1 to be used in wet environments, such as a bathroom or a spa. In some cases, the angle between the direction of the housing 8 and the front side 4 of the disc 2 may be adjustable. This adjustability may allow the user to change the angle to suit their comfort or the specific requirements of the skin area being treated. The angle may be adjustable within a specified range, such as 0-90 degrees. In other cases, the angle may be fixed, potentially simplifying the design and operation of the device 1. In some aspects, the device 1 may be used for a variety of applications. For instance, the device 1 may be used for a pedicure treatment, effectively removing callus from the feet. The device 1 may also be used as an epilator for removing hair from the body. The disc 2, with its abrasive front side 4, may be effective in removing hair from the skin when the disc 2 is rotated by the electric motor 18. The versatility of the device 1 may enhance its value to the user, potentially reducing the number of separate devices the user requires for their personal care. In the context of the present disclosure, the term "abrasive material" relates to a material that may be used to remove dead or hard skin cells, e.g. from the feet by friction, e.g. through the action of rubbing or peeling or scratching. The treated surface may, after treatment using the abrasive material, become silky smooth. The housing may preferably be made or a water-resistant material and all connecting areas may be sealed. Hence the device and / or the housing according to the present disclosure may preferably be waterproof. In order to improve performance during operation of the device, the angle between the direction of the housing and the front side of the abrasive material may be fixed. In an embodiment the angle between the direction of the housing and the front side of the abrasive material is in the range of 0-90°, such as in the range of 5-50°, e.g. in the range of 7.5-30°, such as in the range of 10-25°, e.g. in the range of 12-20°, such as in the range ofl0-15°. In the context of the present disclosure the term "direction of the housing" relates to the longitudinal direction of the housing, preferably, with the abrasive material in one end of the device. In another embodiment the angle between the direction of the housing and the front side of the abrasive material may be adjustable allowing the user to provide the best contact and position during operation. Hence, the front side of the abrasive material may be movable relative to the direction of the housing in an angle between 0-90°, such as an angle between 5-50°, e.g. an angle between 7.5- 10 30°, such as an angle between 10-25°, an angle between 12-20°, such as an angle between 0-15°. In the context of the present disclosure, the term "movable relative to" relates to the angle between the front side of the abrasive material and the direction of the housing 8 may be adjustable. In order to reduce or avoid the risk of burns, skin irritation, wear and other damages the speed of the abrasive material, the rounds per minute should be kept low. In an embodiment the electrical means may be configured to generate a speed of the abrasive material in the range of 100- 2000 rpm, such as in the range of 200-1750 RPM, e.g. in the range of 300-1500, such as in the range of 400-1250 RPM, e.g. in the range of 500-1000, such as in the range of 550-750 RPM, e.g. in the range of 600-700. The abrasive side has in an embodiment a roughness in the range of 5-150 μm, such as in the range of 10-100 μm e.g. in the range of 20-90 μm, such as in the range of 30-80 μm, e.g. in the range of 40-70 μm. The device according to the present disclosure may be a personal care In yet another embodiment the personal care device is for pedicure treatment. Preferably, the pedicure treatment has electrical means configured to generate a speed of the abrasive material in the range of 100-2000 rpm, such as in the range of 200-1750 RPM, e.g. in the range of 300-1500 RPM, such as in the range of 400-1250 RPM, e.g. in the range of 500-1000 RPM, such as in the range of 550-750 RPM, e.g. in the range of 600-700 RPM. In order to provide a proper abrasive effect, the device according to the present disclosure and / or the electrical motor 18 may be configured to generate a torque on the disk 2 in the range of 1.9-2.2 kg / cm, such as in the range of 2.0-2.1 kg / cm, e.g. in the range of 2.01-2.05, such as in the range of 2.01- 2.03 kg / cm, e.g. in the range of 2.01-2.02, such as about 2.014. In an embodiment the abrasive material may have a diameter in the range of 25-35 mm, preferably approximately 30 mm and a thickness in the range of 5.5-6.5 mm, a roughness in the range of 5-150 μm, an angle between the direction of the housing and the front side of the abrasive material of 0-15 ° and wherein the electric motor 11 is configured to generate a torque on the disc to in the range of 1.900-2.200 kg / cm, such as in the range of 2.000-2.100 kg / cm, e.g. in the range of 2.010-2.050, such as in the range of 2.011- 2.030 kg / cm, e.g. in the range of 2.012- 2.020, such as about 2.014. In a preferred embodiment, the device according to the present disclosure, may be used for a pedicure treatment. In the context of the present disclosure, the term "pedicure treatment" relates to a therapeutic treatment, in particular for the feet. The treatment may be used to remove dead skin, soften and remove hard skin and shapes and treating toenails. Preferably the abrasive disc 2 has a thickness in the range of 1-11 mm, such as in the range of 2-10 mm, e.g. in the range of 3-9 mm, such as in the range of 4-8 mm, e.g. in the range of 5.5-65 mm. It should be noted that embodiments and features described in the context of one of the aspects of the present disclosure also apply to the other aspects of the disclosure. The various aspects and implementations have been described in conjunction with various embodiments herein. However, other variations to the disclosed embodiments can be understood and effected by those skilled in the art in practicing the claimed subject-matter, from a study of the drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims. In the claims, the word “comprising” does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article “a” or “an” does not exclude a plurality. A single processor or other unit may fulfill the functions of several items recited in the claims. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage. A computer program may be stored / distributed on a suitable medium, such as an optical storage medium or a solid- state medium supplied together with or as part of other hardware, but may also be distributed in other forms, such as via the Internet or other wired or wireless telecommunication systems. The reference signs used in the claims shall not be construed as limiting the scope. Unless otherwise indicated, the drawings are intended to be read (e.g., cross-hatching, arrangement of parts, proportion, degree, etc.) together with the specification, and are to be considered a portion of the entire written description of this disclosure. As used in the description, the terms “horizontal”, “vertical”, “left”, “right”, “up” and “down”, as well as adjectival and adverbial derivatives thereof (e.g., “horizontally”, “rightwardly”, “upwardly”, etc.), simply refer to the orientation of the illustrated structure as the particular drawing figure faces the reader. Similarly, the terms “inwardly” and “outwardly” generally refer to the orientation of a surface relative to its axis of elongation, or axis of rotation, as appropriate.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A device (1) for use by a person to remove callus from the person’s skin, the device comprising: a housing (8) shaped and sized to be held in a hand of the person while using the device (1), the housing (8) containing an electric motor (18), and an electric battery (9), a disc (2) with a rear side and an abrasive front side (4), at least the front side (4) of the disc (2) being exposed from the housing (8), the electric motor (18) being coupled to the disc (2) to impart rotation on the disc (2), characterized by a sensor (11) configured for detecting light from an area (21) of the skin of the person close to the disc (2) or under the disc (2), the sensor (11) generating a signal representative of the light detected by the sensor (11), a processor (25) coupled to the electric battery (9), the electric motor (18), and the sensor (11), the processor (25) being configured to control operation of the electric motor (18), the processor (25) being configured to determine presence of callus or epidermis without callus in the area (21) from the signal of the sensor (11), and the processor (25) being configured to stop the electric motor (18) when the processor (25) has determined that epidermis without callus is present in the area (21).

2. The device of claim 1, wherein the processor (25) is configured to start electric motor (18) upon receipt of a signal, preferably a signal from a switch (12).

3. The device of claim 1 or 2, comprisinglight source (20) directed to the area, the light source (20) preferably beingpowered by the electric battery (9) and controlled by the processor (25).

4. The device of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the sensor (11) comprises a photocell.

5. The device of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the sensor (11) comprises a camera.

6. The device of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the processor (25) is configured to determine the presence of hard skin as a function of the wavelength of the light captured by the sensor (11).

7. The device of claim 6, wherein the sensor (11) comprises a camera for obtaining at least one digital image of the area (21) and wherein the processor (25), is configured to process the at least one digital image (1) using a statistical object detection algorithm executed on the processor (25) to calculate the likelihood of callus being present in the area (21), and processor (25) being configured to determine the presence of callus or epidermis without callus based on the likelihood of callus being present in the area (21), and the processor (25) being configured to stop the electric motor (18) if the processor (25) has determined that epidermis without callus is present in the area (21).

8. The device of claim 7, wherein the at least one digital image is a high-resolution color photograph, preferably in RGB or RGBA color space.

9. The device of claims 7 or 8, wherein the statistical object detection algorithm uses a neural network model, more preferably a convolutional neural network model.

10. The device of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the disc (2) is transparent to light of a wavelength that is captured by the sensor (11), preferably light with the wavelength that creates the signal of the sensor (11) used by the processor (25) to determine presence of callus or epidermis without callus.

11. The device of claim 10, when dependent on claim 3, wherein the light source (20) is configured to emit light to the area (21), preferably through the disc (2), the disc (2) being transparent to at least a portion of the light emitted by the light source (20).

12. The device of claim 10 or 11, wherein the sensor (11) is arranged to detect light that is reflected from the area (21) of the skin under the disc (2) and reaches the sensor (11) through the disc (2).

13. The device of any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the material of the disc (2) is glass, preferably selected from flat glass, pressed glass or hardened glass.

14. The device of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the front side (4) has a roughness in the range of 5-150 μm, such as in the range of 10-100 μm e.g. in the range of 20-90 μm, such as in the range of 30-80 μm, e.g. in the range of 40-70 μm.

15. The device of any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the processor (25) is configured to operate the disc (2) with a rotational speed in the range of 100-2000 rpm, such as in the range of 200-1750 RPM, e.g. in the range of 300-1500, such as in the range of 400-1250 RPM, e.g. in the range of 500-1000, such as in the range of 550-750 RPM, e.g. in the range of 600- 700 RPM.1 to 14, wherein the processor (25) is configured to control the torque applied to ) in the range of 0.19 to 0.22 newton meter, such as in the range of 0.2 to 0.21 newton meter.

17. The device of any one claims 1 to 16, wherein the disc (2) has a diameter in the range of 25 to 35 mm and preferably a roughness in the range of 5-150 μm.

18. The device (1) of any one claims 1 to 17, wherein the sensor (11) comprises a camera configured for taking still images and / or video, the device (1) comprising a wireless transmitter, the processor (25) being configured to transmit the still images and / or video from the camera, preferably to a wireless receiver.

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