Skin care apparatus and method for controlling same

Abstract

The present invention relates to a skin care apparatus comprising: a massage head module; and a processor that controls a function of the massage head module, wherein the processor activates a function configured in the massage head module depending on whether a gripper portion of the massage head module is in an OFF-position state or an ON-position state.

Description

Skin care device and control method thereof

[0001] The present invention relates to a skin care device and a control method thereof that can pull the skin and perform skin care on the pulled portion.

[0002]

[0003] Generally, skin care devices can perform the function of alleviating skin problems such as pigmentation, acne, and wrinkles by primarily using micro-vibrations or ultrasound.

[0004] Accordingly, the surface of the existing skin care device that comes into contact with the skin is formed in a smooth and flat shape.

[0005] In addition, existing skin care devices have the problem that while they can provide pressure to press or spread the skin sideways, they cannot provide pressure or stimulation by pulling the skin, as is done when receiving skin care from a person (e.g., a skin care specialist).

[0006] For example, a skin care device that lifts the skin using vacuum suction technology has recently been released, but this is intended for cleaning pores, removing blackheads and whiteheads, managing narrow areas such as the nose and chin, and acne-prone skin.

[0007] On the other hand, skin care methods performed by humans (e.g., estheticians) differ in that they aim to increase skin elasticity by pulling, stretching, or loosening the skin, provide a lifting effect (improving sagging skin), and promote lymphatic drainage, while also aiming to stimulate collagen production by deeply stimulating the skin or to relieve tension in the skin muscles.

[0008] However, skin care methods that involve pulling the skin manually make it difficult to continuously provide consistent pressure and stimulation. Furthermore, since it places a strain on the wrists and fingers for non-professional skin care specialists, it is difficult to perform for extended periods, and due to these limitations, there is a problem in that it is difficult to expect consistent results.

[0009] Therefore, there is a need for a skin care device that can operate by automatically pulling the skin for more effective and continuous skin stimulation and care.

[0010] The background technology of the present invention is disclosed in Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2018-0125643 (published Nov. 26, 2018).

[0011] The information described above disclosed in the background technology of this invention is intended only to enhance understanding of the background of the present invention and may therefore include information that does not constitute prior art.

[0012]

[0013] According to one aspect of the present invention, the present invention is created to solve the above-mentioned problems and aims to provide a skin care device and a control method thereof that can pull the skin and perform skin care on the pulled portion.

[0014] However, the technical problems that the present invention aims to solve are not limited to those described above, and other unmentioned problems can be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the invention below.

[0015]

[0016] A skin care device according to one aspect of the present invention comprises: a massage head module; and a processor for controlling the function of the massage head module; wherein the processor drives a function set in the massage head module depending on whether the gripper portion of the massage head module is in an off position or an on position.

[0017] In the present invention, the off-position state refers to a state in which the clamp of the clamp part is spread out at a first angle to grasp the skin, and the on-position state refers to a state in which the clamp of the clamp part is folded at a second angle to pull the skin grasped by the clamp.

[0018] In the present invention, the processor is characterized by driving at least one of an infrared (IR) LED, a red (RED) LED, a radio frequency (RF), a microcurrent (MC), and an electroporation (EP) function according to a mode set in the massage head module when the clamp part is in the ON position.

[0019] In the present invention, when the clamp part is in an off-position state, and the clamp part is pressed against the skin while the skin is caught between the clamp parts, the hinge of the clamp part is gradually folded as the clamp part is pressed against the skin, and as the skin caught between the clamp parts is pulled between the clamp parts while being held, the on-position state in which the hinge folding of the clamp part is completed is reached, the processor is characterized by driving a function corresponding to a mode set in the massage head module.

[0020] In the present invention, while the clamp part is pressing the skin in the on position state, the clamp part maintains a state of pulling the skin, and the processor is characterized by continuously operating a function corresponding to a mode set in the massage head module while the clamp part maintains a state of pulling the skin.

[0021] In the present invention, when the clamp part pressing the skin begins to be lifted from the skin, the clamp part in the on position begins to be converted to an off position, and the processor stops the operation of a function corresponding to a mode set in the massage head module as the on position is released.

[0022] In the present invention, the massage head module comprises at least one massage head module among a face head module and a body head module, and each massage head module is formed to be detachably replaceable on the body.

[0023] In the present invention, the clamp portion of the massage head module is characterized in that a conductive skin contact terminal is formed on each clamp, and at least one of a radio frequency (RF), microcurrent (MC), and electroporation (EP) function is performed through the skin contact terminal, and a lighting portion is formed on the module body between each clamp of the clamp portion, and at least one of an infrared (IR) LED and a red (RED) LED function is performed through the lighting portion.

[0024]

[0025] A control method for a skin care device according to another aspect of the present invention comprises: a step in which a processor of the skin care device determines whether a gripper portion of a massage head module is in an off-position state or an on-position state; and a step in which, when the gripper portion is in an on-position state, the processor drives at least one of an infrared (IR) LED, a red (RED) LED, a radio frequency (RF), a microcurrent (MC), and an electroporation (EP) function according to a mode set in the massage head module.

[0026] In the present invention, the off-position state refers to a state in which the clamp of the clamp part is spread out at a first angle to grasp the skin, and the on-position state refers to a state in which the clamp of the clamp part is folded at a second angle to pull the skin grasped by the clamp.

[0027] In the present invention, in the step of determining whether the clamp part is in an off-position state or an on-position state, when the clamp part is in an off-position state, if the clamp part is pressed against the skin while the skin is caught between the clamp parts, the hinge of the clamp part is gradually folded as the clamp part is pressed against the skin, and as the skin caught between the clamp parts is pulled between the clamp parts while being held, the on-position state in which the hinge folding of the clamp part is completed is reached, the processor is characterized by driving a function corresponding to a mode set in the massage head module.

[0028] In the present invention, while the clamp part is pressing the skin in the on position state, the clamp part maintains a state of pulling the skin, and the processor is characterized by continuously operating a function corresponding to a mode set in the massage head module while the clamp part maintains a state of pulling the skin.

[0029] In the present invention, when the clamp part pressing the skin begins to be lifted from the skin, the clamp part in the on position begins to be converted to an off position, and the processor stops the operation of a function corresponding to a mode set in the massage head module as the on position is released.

[0030]

[0031] According to one aspect of the present invention, the present invention enables pulling the skin and performing skin care on the pulled portion.

[0032] In addition, the present invention enables more effective and continuous skin stimulation and care by operating in a manner that automatically pulls the skin.

[0033] In addition, the present invention is equipped with an intensive care unit that uses a clamp to grasp and protrude a body part requiring intensive care among the user's skin. Therefore, by operating the intensive care unit, stimulation is supplied from one side of the body part that protrudes compared to other body parts to the other side, and stimulation is supplied from the other side of the body part to one side, thereby providing the advantage of performing effective skin care.

[0034] In addition, the present invention has the advantage of enabling more effective skin care by providing various stimuli, such as high frequency, electroporation, and microcurrent infrared, to body parts that protrude compared to other parts through the operation of the intensive care unit.

[0035] In addition, the present invention has the advantage that when a pair of clamps are pressed against a user's skin, the pair of clamps rotate toward the center and the gap between the pair of clamps narrows, thereby performing a clamping operation on the skin interposed between the clamps, and allowing for the concentrated application of stimulation such as high frequency to the user's skin interposed between the clamps, so that effective care can be provided to the user's skin requiring care.

[0036] In addition, the present invention has the advantage of preventing unnecessary stimulation from being supplied while the user's skin is not in contact with the intensive care unit, as the intensive care unit that pinches and protrudes the user's skin is movably installed in the head body by means of a movable plate, and when the intensive care unit moves into the head body while being pressurized against the user's skin, this is detected and stimulation is provided through the irradiation unit and the discharge unit.

[0037] However, the effects obtainable through the present invention are not limited to those described above, and other unmentioned technical effects will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the invention below.

[0038]

[0039] The following drawings attached to this specification illustrate preferred embodiments of the present invention and serve to further enhance understanding of the technical concept of the present invention together with the detailed description of the invention provided below; therefore, the present invention should not be interpreted as being limited only to the matters described in such drawings.

[0040] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a skin care device having an intensive care function according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view showing a skin care device having an intensive care function according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view showing the head portion of a skin care device having an intensive care function according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view showing a ring member and a discharge part of a skin care device having an intensive care function according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing the head portion of a skin care device having an intensive care function according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] FIG. 6 is an operating state diagram showing the head portion of a skin care device having an intensive care function according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] FIG. 7 is a usage state diagram showing a skin care device having an intensive care function according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] FIG. 8 is an exemplary diagram showing the schematic configuration of a skin care device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a control method for a skin care device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a method for a processor to drive a function in conjunction with the position of the gripper part of the massage head module in FIG. 9.

[0050] FIG. 11 is an exemplary diagram shown to explain the form of a skin care device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] FIG. 12 is an example diagram for explaining the operation of the gripper part of the massage head module in FIG. 11.

[0052] FIG. 13 is an example diagram shown to explain the action of pulling the skin by the gripper part of the massage head module in FIG. 11.

[0053]

[0054] Hereinafter, an embodiment of a skin care device and a control method according to the present invention will be described with reference to the attached drawings. In this process, the thickness of lines or the size of components shown in the drawings may be exaggerated for clarity and convenience of explanation. Furthermore, the terms described below are defined considering their functions in the present invention, and these may vary depending on the intention or convention of the user or operator. Therefore, the definitions of these terms should be based on the content throughout this specification.

[0055] Embodiments of the present invention are described below with reference to the attached drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily implement them. However, the present invention may be embodied in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. Furthermore, in order to clearly explain the present invention in the drawings, parts unrelated to the explanation have been omitted, and similar parts throughout the specification are denoted by similar reference numerals.

[0056] Throughout the specification, when a part is described as "including" a certain component, this means that, unless specifically stated otherwise, it does not exclude other components but may include additional components.

[0057] Terms and words used in this specification and claims should not be interpreted as being limited to their ordinary or dictionary meanings, but should be interpreted in a meaning and concept consistent with the technical spirit of the invention, based on the principle that the inventor can appropriately define the concept of the terms to best describe his invention.

[0058] Accordingly, the embodiments described in this specification and the configurations illustrated in the drawings are merely some of the most preferred embodiments of the invention and do not represent all of the technical spirit of the invention; therefore, it should be understood that various equivalents and modifications capable of replacing them may exist at the time of filing this application. Furthermore, as used herein, "comprise" or "include" and / or "comprising" or "including" specify the presence of the mentioned features, numbers, steps, actions, parts, elements, and / or groups thereof, and do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, actions, parts, elements, and / or groups. Additionally, when describing embodiments of the invention, "may" or "may be" may include "one or more embodiments of the invention."

[0059] Additionally, to aid in understanding the invention, the attached drawings are not drawn to actual scale, and the dimensions of some components may be exaggerated. Furthermore, the same reference numerals may be assigned to identical components in different embodiments.

[0060] The statement that two subjects of comparison are 'identical' means that they are 'substantially identical.' Therefore, substantial identity may include deviations considered low in the industry, for example, deviations within 5%. Additionally, the statement that a parameter is uniform in a given area may mean that it is uniform from an average perspective.

[0061] Although terms such as "first," "second," etc., are used to describe various components, it goes without saying that these components are not limited by these terms. These terms are used merely to distinguish one component from another, and unless specifically stated otherwise, the first component may also be the second component.

[0062] Throughout the specification, unless specifically stated otherwise, each component may be singular or plural.

[0063] The fact that any configuration is placed on the “upper (or lower)” of a component or on the “upper (or lower)” of a component may mean not only that the any configuration is placed in contact with the upper (or lower) surface of said component, but also that another configuration may be interposed between said component and any configuration placed on (or below) said component.

[0064] Furthermore, where it is stated that one component is “connected,” “coupled,” or “joined” to another component, it should be understood that while said components may be directly connected or joined to one another, another component may be “interposed” between each component, or that each component may be “connected,” “coupled,” or “joined” through another component. Additionally, when it is stated that a part is electrically coupled to another part, this includes not only cases where they are directly connected but also cases where they are connected with an intermediate element in between.

[0065] Throughout the specification, “A and / or B” means A, B, or A and B unless specifically stated otherwise. That is, “and / or” includes any combination or any combination of the enumerated items. “C to D” means C or more and D or less, unless specifically stated otherwise.

[0066]

[0067] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a skin care device having an intensive care function according to one embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view showing a skin care device having an intensive care function according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view showing a head part of a skin care device having an intensive care function according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0068] In addition, FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view showing a ring member and a discharge part of a skin care device having an intensive care function according to one embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing a head part of a skin care device having an intensive care function according to one embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 6 is an operating state diagram showing a head part of a skin care device having an intensive care function according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 7 is a usage state diagram showing a skin care device having an intensive care function according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0069] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 7, a skin care device having an intensive care function according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a head part (30) that generates a plurality of stimuli by power provided from a main body part (10) to deliver stimulation to the user's skin, and an intensive care part provided in the head part (30) to pinch and protrude a part of the user's skin when the head part (30) is pressed against the user's skin and to intensively discharge stimulation to the protruding skin.

[0070] Accordingly, when the user presses the power button (12) provided on the main body (10) after attaching the head unit (30) to the main body (10), power is supplied to the head unit (30) by the operation of the power supply unit provided on the main body (10), and the user can visually perceive the intensity of the stimulation irradiated from the head unit (30) through the display unit (14) provided on the main body (10).

[0071] The intensive care unit (77) of the present embodiment pinches and protrudes the user's skin that is in contact with the head unit (30), and various stimuli irradiated from the intensive care unit (77) are intensively irradiated onto the protruding skin, thereby providing various stimuli to the skin that the user desires.

[0072] The head unit (30) of the present embodiment includes a head body (32) connected to the main body (10) and having a central management unit (77) movably installed therein, and a connecting unit (50) that connects the head body (32) to the main body (10) in a detachable manner and electrically connects the main body (10) and the head body (32).

[0073] The head portion (30) is detachably connected to the main body portion (10) by the connecting portion (50), and power provided from the main body portion (10) is transmitted to the head portion (30) through the connecting portion (50), so that various types of head portions (30) can be connected to the main body portion (10) to perform various skin care.

[0074] The connecting portion (50) of the present embodiment includes a connecting projection (52) extending from the base frame (36) and a connecting groove portion (54) formed in the main body portion (10) to allow the connecting projection (52) to be inserted, and a plurality of terminal pins (56) are installed on the inner side of the connecting projection (52) and inserted into the terminal groove portion (58) formed in the connecting groove portion (54), thereby electrically connecting the main body portion (10) and the head portion (30).

[0075] The head body (32) of the present embodiment includes a base frame (36) connected to the main body (10) by a connecting part (50), and a cover frame (34) that supports the central management part (77) and is coupled to the base frame (36).

[0076] Additionally, a flow plate (70) is installed on the base frame (36) and moves toward the main body (10) by operation of the central management unit (77). The flow plate (70) includes a plurality of flow protrusions (72) that are pressurized by the central management unit (77), a through hole portion (74) disposed between the plurality of flow protrusions (72), an elastic support portion (75) that supports the flow protrusions (72) and the through hole portion (74) and is seated on the base frame (36), and an elastic member (76) interposed between the elastic support portion (75) and the base frame (36).

[0077] The flow plate (70) is supported so as to be movable in the upward direction by a plurality of elastic members (76) interposed between the base frame (36) and the flow plate (70), and when the concentration management unit (77) is pressed against a plurality of flow protrusions (72) formed at both ends of the upper surface of the flow plate (70), the elastic members (76) are compressed and the flow plate (70) moves in the downward direction.

[0078] The intensive management unit (77) includes an operating plate (80) installed on the inner side of the cover frame (34), a first clamp part (77a) which is rotatably installed on the operating plate (80) by a hinge part (77c) and protrudes outward from the cover frame (34) and rotates when pressed against the user's skin, and a second clamp part (77b) which is rotatably installed on the operating plate (80) by a hinge part (77c), protrudes outward from the cover frame (34) and rotates when pressed against the user's skin, and is positioned opposite to the first clamp part (77a).

[0079] Accordingly, the first clamp part (77a) and the second clamp part (77b) are arranged with their ends facing each other, and the first clamp part (77a) and the second clamp part (77b) are formed inclined toward the center. Therefore, when the first clamp part (77a) and the second clamp part (77b) are pressed against the user's skin, the user's skin is interposed between the ends of the first clamp part (77a) and the second clamp part (77b), and the first clamp part (77a) and the second clamp part (77b) rotate toward the center of the head part (30) to perform the operation of clamping and pulling the user's skin.

[0080] At this time, the ends of the first clamp part (77a) and the second clamp part (77b) that come into contact with the user's skin are provided with a discharge part (96) that discharges stimulation, and since the lower ends of the first clamp part (77a) and the second clamp part (77b) are rotatably installed on the movable plate (70) by means of a hinge part (77c), a plurality of discharge parts (96) are operated to clamp and pull the user's skin.

[0081] Since the multiple discharge portions (96) have a circular cross-sectional shape, it is possible to prevent the user's skin from being damaged by the discharge portions (96) when the user's skin is pinched and pulled.

[0082] In addition, since the first clamp part (77a) and the second clamp part (77b) are rotatably installed by the hinge part (77c), a plurality of link members (87) are formed, and through the rotational movement of the link members (87), the plurality of discharge parts (96) move in the second direction and move in the first direction as shown in FIG. 7, and pinch and pull the user's skin.

[0083] In the operating plate (80) of the present embodiment, a plurality of operating holes (82) are formed in which a floating projection (72) emerges and retracts, and between the plurality of operating holes (82), an irradiation part (84) is provided in which a stimulus generated by power provided from the main body (10) is irradiated, and a guide shaft (86) that supports the operating plate (80) is formed.

[0084] Additionally, a printed circuit board is installed between the movable plate (70) and the base frame (36), and the printed circuit board is equipped with a light-emitting part that provides light irradiated onto the user's skin through the irradiation part (84), and a plurality of switches that come into contact as the movable plate (70) moves.

[0085] Accordingly, when the multiple discharge parts (96) are pressed against the user's skin and the link member (87) rotates around the hinge part (77c), the multiple discharge parts (96) move in the second direction and the gap narrows, and the user's skin interposed between the multiple discharge parts (96) is pinched and moved in the first direction, and the user's skin interposed between the multiple discharge parts (96) is pulled toward the main body part (10).

[0086] As described above, when a plurality of discharge units (96) are pressurized, the elastic member (76) is compressed and the operating plate (80) moves toward the base frame (36). When the switch is operated, power provided from the main body (10) is supplied to the discharge units (96) and the light-emitting unit, and stimulation provided from the discharge units (96) and the bladder unit is irradiated onto the user's skin.

[0087] The stimulation supplied from the light-emitting unit includes infrared rays, and the stimulation provided from the discharge unit (96) includes one or more of high frequency, microcurrent and electroporation.

[0088] The first clamp part (77a) and the second clamp part (77b) of the present embodiment include a link member (87) that is rotatably installed on an operating plate (80) by a hinge part (77c), and a discharge part (96) that is provided on the link member (87) and irradiates stimulation by power supplied from the main body part (10).

[0089] The link member (87) protrudes upward toward the head portion (30) through holes formed at both ends of the cover frame (34), and since the ends of the cover frame (34) have inclined surfaces that become higher as they move outward, the link member (87) protruding through the holes is restrained by the cover frame (34) and prevents it from rotating outward toward the head portion (30).

[0090] Accordingly, the multiple link members (87) maintain an incline in which their upper ends are arranged facing each other in an 'ㅅ' shape, and the incline formed by the link members (87) maintains an angle between 45 and 15.

[0091] The link member (87) of the present embodiment comprises a link body (88) having a hinge hole portion (89) that is rotatably connected to a hinge portion (77c), and a connecting block (90) that is coupled to the link body (88) and has a discharge portion (96) installed thereon. The connecting block (90) comprises a contact support portion (92) on which the discharge portion (96) is installed, and a plug member (94) coupled to the contact support portion (92) to prevent the discharge portion (96) installed on the contact support portion (92) from being separated from the contact support portion (92).

[0092] The contact support member (92) has a curved surface formed at its top so that a curved panel member (97) can be seated thereon, and coupling holes (92a) are formed at both ends of the contact support member (92) so that the coupling projection (94a) of the plug member (94) is inserted to restrain the panel member (97).

[0093] Additionally, a support projection (94b) is formed on the plug member (94) to support the end of the panel member (97), and when the plug member (94) is coupled to the contact support member (92), the end of the panel member (97) surrounding the contact support member (92) is restrained by the support projection (94b), and the support projection is coupled with an insertion projection (92b) formed on the bottom surface of the contact support member.

[0094] The discharge portion (96) of the present embodiment is made of a metal material and is formed with a predetermined thickness to discharge a plurality of types of stimulation by power provided from the main body portion (10), and includes a panel member (97) formed by bending the end of the panel member (97) so that the panel member (97) is inserted into and connected to the contact support portion (92).

[0095] The panel member (97) is formed in a curved panel shape so as not to cause damage to the skin even when pressure is applied to the user's skin, and is formed with a thickness of 2 mm or less so that the time to be heated by the heat energy provided to the panel member (97) can be shortened.

[0096] In addition, the panel member (97) is made of a metal panel made of SUS, nickel (Ni), and chromium (Cr) alloy, so it has good chemical resistance and heat resistance, so it can effectively transfer thermal energy to the user's skin and prevent damage to the user's skin.

[0097]

[0098] Please note that some of the components described above are expressed differently for the sake of convenience of explanation.

[0099] FIG. 8 is an exemplary diagram showing the schematic configuration of a skin care device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0100] As illustrated in FIG. 8, the skin care device according to the present embodiment may include a massage head module (110), a switch module (120), a processor (130), an information output module (140), and a power module (150).

[0101] The massage head module (110) may include at least one functional massage head module (e.g., Face head module, Body head module).

[0102] The massage head module (110) can be detachably replaced on the body.

[0103] The massage head module (110) may include infrared (IR) LED, red (RED) LED, radio frequency (RF), microcurrent (MC), and electroporation (EP) functions.

[0104] Infrared rays (IR) are invisible wavelengths (e.g., 700 nm to 1 mm) that penetrate deep into the skin to deliver heat to tissues, promote cell metabolism, and increase blood circulation.

[0105] Red (RED) LEDs emit light with a wavelength of 630–660 nm and can penetrate deep into the skin to promote the production of collagen and elastin, stimulate cell activity, and support the repair of damaged tissue.

[0106] Radio frequency (RF) can deliver high-frequency current (e.g., 0.5–10 MHz) to the skin to heat tissues and generate heat deep within the skin, which can support collagen regeneration and improve skin elasticity.

[0107] Microcurrent (MC) delivers low-voltage current (in microamperes) to the skin and muscles, and the current can promote ATP production within cells and support the restoration of electrical balance in the skin and muscles.

[0108] Electroporation (EP) applies electric pulses to the skin to form tiny holes in the cell membrane, and can deliver active ingredients (e.g., drugs, vitamins, hyaluronic acid, etc.) deep into the skin.

[0109] The massage head module (110) can perform a vibration function by means of a motor (not shown).

[0110] The massage head module (110) may include a gripper (111) (see FIG. 11 and FIG. 12), and may generate resistance (i.e., force preventing the gripper from folding) and restoring force (i.e., force preventing the gripper from folding and unfolding) by a spring (not shown), or may generate resistance and restoring force by a motor (not shown).

[0111] The massage head module (110) has a gripper part (111) that is unfolded at a specified first angle in the off position (see (a) of FIG. 12) and then folded at a specified second angle in the on position (see (b) of FIG. 12).

[0112] Here, the off position (see (a) of FIG. 12) may mean a state in which the hinge of the clamp part (111) is unfolded to a designated first angle to grasp the skin, and the on position (see (b) of FIG. 12) may mean a state in which the hinge of the clamp part (111) is folded to a designated second angle to pull the skin grasped by the clamp part (111).

[0113] The massage head module (110) has infrared (IR) LED, red (RED) LED, radio frequency (RF), microcurrent (MC), and electroporation (EP) functions that operate in conjunction with the unfolded and folded states of the gripper (111).

[0114] The unfolding and folding movements of the gripper part (111) of the massage head module (110) are explained in more detail with reference to FIGS. 11 and 12.

[0115] The switch module (120) is formed in the body and can set the power on / off and mode.

[0116] The switch module (120) may be formed with at least one switch, and the mode may be set or changed according to the number of times the switch is pressed consecutively or the time of one press.

[0117] The switch module (120) may also have a power switch and a mode switch separately.

[0118] For example, the mode (i.e., skin care mode) may include a FACE weak mode / strong mode and a Body weak mode / strong mode. For each mode, the frequency and duration of the radio frequency (RF) may be set differently, and the output intensity and duration of the microcurrent (MC), EP, and LED may be set differently. Each mode may have a default mode set according to the type of massage head module (110) (e.g., Face head module, Body head module).

[0119] The information output module (140) can display the currently set mode (i.e., skin care mode).

[0120] The information output module (140) can display the current battery level (i.e., power status).

[0121] The information output module (140) can display the mode and power status using the color or number of LEDs.

[0122] For example, a yellow LED may be lit while charging, and the yellow LED may be turned off when charging is complete. When the current battery level is 15% or less, the yellow and green LEDs may blink and turn off. However, it should be noted that these operations are described as examples to aid in understanding the present embodiment.

[0123] The information output module (140) may display the mode and power status using a display element such as an LCD.

[0124] The information output module (140) can output a corresponding buzzer sound when setting or changing each mode (i.e., skin care mode).

[0125] The information output module (140) may output a corresponding buzzer sound depending on the change in the current battery level (i.e., power status).

[0126] The power module (150) may have a power connection terminal (or battery charging terminal) (e.g., USB C terminal) formed at a designated location (e.g., bottom) of the body.

[0127] A battery (not shown) may be built into the interior of the body.

[0128] The processor (130) can control the overall operation of the massage head module (110), switch module (120), information output module (140), and power module (150).

[0129] The processor (130) can prevent battery power consumption by automatically turning off the power when there is no operation for a specified time (e.g., 2 minutes) while the power is on.

[0130] The processor (130) can prevent the operation of the skin care device during charging (e.g., USB-C 5V input).

[0131] The processor (130) can drive functions such as infrared (IR) LED, red (RED) LED, radio frequency (RF), microcurrent (MC), and electroporation (EP) of the massage head module (110) in conjunction with the unfolded and folded states of the clamp part (111).

[0132] The processor (130) can detect the pressure applied to the clamp (111) using a sensor (e.g., a sensor that detects the force of the hinge of the clamp being folded or pulled).

[0133] The processor (130) can vibrate the massage head module (110) by driving a motor (not shown) according to the mode (i.e., skin care mode).

[0134] The processor (130) may use a motor (not shown) to generate a resistance force (i.e., a force that prevents the gripper from folding) and a restoring force (i.e., a force that causes the folded gripper to unfold again) for the gripper (111) of the massage head module (110).

[0135] The processor (130) can detect whether the gripper (111) is in an off position (see (a) of FIG. 12) or an on position (see (b) of FIG. 12) based on the hinge angle of the gripper (111) of the massage head module (110).

[0136] Here, the off position (see (a) of FIG. 12) may mean a state in which the hinge of the clamp part (111) is unfolded to a designated first angle to grasp the skin, and the on position (see (b) of FIG. 12) may mean a state in which the hinge of the clamp part (111) is folded to a designated second angle to pull the skin grasped by the clamp part (111).

[0137] FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a control method for a skin care device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0138] Referring to FIG. 9, when a massage head module (e.g., face head, body head) is mounted on the body of a skin care device (S101), and after the power is turned on (Y of S102), the user can set a mode according to the massage head module (e.g., face head, body head) (110) mounted on the body by operating the switch module (120) (S103).

[0139] When the hinge folding of the clamp part (111) is completed (Y of S104) while the mode according to the massage head module (e.g., face head, body head) (110) mounted on the body is set as described above, the processor (130) can operate the function of the massage head module (110) according to the set mode (S105).

[0140] For example, when the gripper (111) grasps the skin in the off position (see (a) of FIG. 12) and the grasped skin is pulled into the up position (see (b) of FIG. 12), the processor (130) can drive the corresponding function (e.g., RF, LED, MC, EP, vibration, etc.) of the massage head module (110) according to the set mode.

[0141] FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a method for a processor to drive a function in conjunction with the position of the gripper part of the massage head module in FIG. 9.

[0142] Referring to FIG. 10, the user bites the skin between the clamps (111) when the clamps (111) of the skin care device are in the off position (S201).

[0143] At this time, the off-position state of the clamp part (111) corresponds to a state before force (i.e., force pressing on the skin) is applied to the clamp part (111), or a state in which the clamp part (111) is held so as not to fold at a force (i.e., force pressing on the skin) specified by the motor (not shown).

[0144] At this time, the processor (130) can detect the pressure applied to the hinge of the clamp part (111) using a sensor and determine the force with which the clamp part (111) is pressed.

[0145] In this manner, when skin is pressed by the skin care device while the skin is held between the clamp parts (111), the clamp (or hinge) of the clamp part (111) begins to fold due to the force pressing the clamp part (111) (i.e., the force pressing the skin). Alternatively, when the force pressing the clamp part (111) exceeds the force that can be withstood by the motor (not shown), the clamp (or hinge) of the clamp part (111) begins to fold (S202).

[0146] In this way, when the gripper part (111) is in the off position (see (a) of FIG. 12) and the gripper (111) is pressed, the gripper (or hinge) of the gripper part (111) is gradually folded, and the skin held by the gripper part (111) is pulled between the gripper part (111) and becomes the on position (see (b) of FIG. 12), that is, when the hinge folding of the gripper part (111) is completed (Y of S203), the processor (130) can drive the corresponding function (e.g., RF, LED, MC, EP, vibration, etc.) of the massage head module (110) according to the set mode (S204).

[0147] At this time, while the clamp part (111) is pressing on the skin, the corresponding function (e.g., RF, LED, MC, EP, vibration, etc.) of the massage head module (110) can be continuously operated while the clamp part (111) maintains the state of pulling the skin.

[0148] At this time, when the skin care device (i.e., the clamp part (111)) starts to be lifted from the skin (i.e., when the skin pressure by the skin care device starts to be released), the processor (130) stops the operation of the corresponding function (e.g., RF, LED, MC, EP, vibration, etc.) of the massage head module (110), and the clamp part (111) that was in the on position starts to be switched to the off position.

[0149] The processor (130) may also support a state transition to an off position by a motor (not shown).

[0150] At this time, the processor (130) may detect pressure applied to the hinge of the clamp (111) using a sensor, and detect that the clamp (111) is starting to be lifted from the skin.

[0151] FIG. 11 is an illustrative diagram showing the form of a skin care device according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 12 is an illustrative diagram showing the operation of the gripper part of the massage head module in FIG. 11.

[0152] Referring to FIG. 11, the massage head module (110) is detachably replaceable on the upper part of the body, and a switch module (120) and an information output module (140) are formed on one side of the body, and a power module (150) is formed on the lower part of the body.

[0153] The massage head module (110) can be detachably replaced on the body.

[0154] The massage head module (110) may include infrared (IR) LED, red (RED) LED, radio frequency (RF), microcurrent (MC), and electroporation (EP) functions.

[0155] Each clamp part (111) has a conductive skin contact terminal (112) formed thereon, and high frequency (RF), microcurrent (MC), and electroporation (EP) functions can be performed through the skin contact terminal (112).

[0156] A lighting unit (113) is formed in the module body between the clamping units (111), and infrared (IR) LED and red (RED) LED functions can be performed through the lighting unit (113).

[0157] The massage head module (110) can perform a vibration function by means of a motor (not shown).

[0158] The massage head module (110) may include a gripper (111) (see FIG. 11 and FIG. 12), and may generate resistance (i.e., force preventing the gripper from folding) and restoring force (i.e., force preventing the gripper from folding and unfolding) by a spring (not shown), or may generate resistance and restoring force by a motor (not shown).

[0159] The massage head module (110) has a gripper part (111) that is unfolded at a specified first angle in the off position (see (a) of FIG. 12) and then folded at a specified second angle in the on position (see (b) of FIG. 12).

[0160] Here, the off position (see (a) of FIG. 12) may mean a state in which the hinge of the clamp part (111) is unfolded to a designated first angle to grasp the skin, and the on position (see (b) of FIG. 12) may mean a state in which the hinge of the clamp part (111) is folded to a designated second angle to pull the skin grasped by the clamp part (111).

[0161] Referring to FIG. 12, when the clamp part (111) presses the skin, X1 and X2 represent the direction of the force with which the clamp part (111) is pressed, F1 and F2 represent the direction of the force with which the skin is pulled as the clamp part (111) folds, Y1 and Y2 represent the direction of the force with which both sides of the skin are pressed by the clamp part (111) as the clamp part (111) is pressed, and F3 and F4 represent the direction of the force with which the skin is gathered by the clamp part (111).

[0162] In this embodiment, the clamp part (111) is pressed in the X-axis direction (vertical movement), thereby applying force in the Y-axis direction (horizontal movement) and obtaining the effect of pulling the skin between the clamp parts (111).

[0163] FIG. 13 is an example diagram shown to explain the action of pulling the skin by the gripper part of the massage head module in FIG. 11.

[0164] Referring to FIG. 13, the clamp part (111) presses and pulls both sides of the skin caught between the two clamps of the clamp part (111) as it is pressed against the skin, thereby performing high frequency (RF), microcurrent (MC), and electroporation (EP) functions through the skin contact terminal (112) on both sides caught by the clamp, and infrared (IR) LED and red (RED) LED functions can be performed on the skin pulled between the clamp part (111) through the lighting part (113).

[0165] Meanwhile, although not specifically illustrated in the drawing, the clamp part (111) is formed to be automatically opened or closed by an electric motor, and the angle formed by each clamp of the clamp part (111) can be adjusted, and the pressure (i.e., force) of the clamp can also be finely adjusted through various settings.

[0166] In addition, the speed and pressure at which the clamp of the clamp part (111) opens or closes can be adjusted, and the user can continuously maintain the set pressure to minimize discomfort caused by pressure changes during massage, and in addition, in automatic mode, the pressure and speed of the clamp can be automatically adjusted by using a sensor to detect the condition of the skin.

[0167] Although not specifically illustrated in the drawing, a fine vibration function may be applied to the clamp part (111) or to the entire massage head module (110) to more effectively deliver stimulation to the skin. This vibration can deliver stimulation to the deep layers of the skin through low-frequency or high-frequency settings, and can promote skin elasticity and blood circulation.

[0168] As such, this embodiment allows the skin to be pulled by the clamp part (111) and skin care to be performed on the pulled part, and also enables more effective and continuous skin stimulation and care by operating in a way that automatically pulls the skin.

[0169] This embodiment can stimulate the skin by pinching it with tweezers to help improve skin elasticity and reduce wrinkles, and can support skin care for various body parts, such as the neck and arms, as well as the face.

[0170] This embodiment enhances the efficiency of skin care by providing consistent pressure and stimulation that cannot be provided by conventional manual skin care devices, and can prevent fatigue in the user even during prolonged use by pulling the skin with a constant force.

[0171] Although the present invention has been described with reference to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings, this is merely illustrative, and those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications and equivalent alternative embodiments are possible therefrom. Accordingly, the technical scope of protection of the present invention should be determined by the claims below. Furthermore, the implementations described herein may be implemented, for example, as methods or processes, devices, software programs, data streams, or signals. Even if discussed only in the context of a single form of implementation (e.g., discussed only as a method), the implementation of the discussed features may also be implemented in other forms (e.g., devices or programs). Devices may be implemented in appropriate hardware, software, and firmware, etc. Methods may be implemented in devices such as processors, which generally refer to processing devices including, for example, computers, microprocessors, integrated circuits, or programmable logic devices. Processors also include communication devices such as computers, cell phones, portable / personal digital assistants ("PDAs"), and other devices that facilitate the communication of information between end-users.

Claims

1. As a skin care device, Massage head module; and A processor that controls the function of the above massage head module; including, The above processor is, A skin care device characterized by driving a function set in the massage head module depending on whether the clamp part of the massage head module is in an off position or an on position.

2. In Paragraph 1, The above off-position state refers to a state in which the clamp of the clamp part is spread out at a first angle to grasp the skin, and A skin care device characterized in that the above-mentioned on-position state refers to a state in which the clamp of the clamp part is folded at a second angle to pull the skin held by the clamp.

3. In Paragraph 1, The above processor is, When the above clamp part is in the ON position, A skin care device characterized by driving at least one of an infrared (IR) LED, a red (RED) LED, a radio frequency (RF), a microcurrent (MC), and an electroporation (EP) function according to a mode set in the massage head module.

4. In Paragraph 1, When the clamp part is in the off-position state, and the clamp part is pressed against the skin while the skin is caught between the clamp parts, as the clamp part is pressed against the skin, the hinge of the clamp part gradually folds, and as the skin caught between the clamp parts is pulled between the clamp parts while being held, when the on-position state is reached in which the hinge folding of the clamp part is completed, The above processor is, A skin care device characterized by driving a function corresponding to a mode set in the above massage head module.

5. In Paragraph 4, While the clamp part is pressing the skin in the above-mentioned on-position state, the clamp part maintains a state of pulling the skin, The above processor is, A skin care device characterized by continuously operating a function corresponding to a mode set in the massage head module while the above-mentioned clamp part maintains a state of pulling the skin.

6. In Paragraph 4, When the clamp part that was pressing the skin begins to lift off the skin, The clamp part that was in the above-mentioned on position begins to switch to the off position, and The above processor is, A skin care device characterized by stopping the operation of a function corresponding to a mode set in the massage head module as the above-mentioned on position is released.

7. In Paragraph 1, The above massage head module is, It includes at least one massage head module among a face head module and a body head module, and A skin care device characterized in that each massage head module is formed to be detachably replaceable on the body.

8. In Paragraph 1, The clamp part of the above massage head module is, A conductive skin contact terminal is formed on each clamp, and At least one of the radio frequency (RF), microcurrent (MC), and electroporation (EP) functions is performed through the above-mentioned skin contact terminal, and also A lighting unit is formed in the module body between each clamp of the above clamping unit, and A skin care device characterized by being implemented to perform at least one of the functions of an infrared (IR) LED and a red (RED) LED through the above-mentioned lighting unit.

9. A step in which the processor of the skin care device determines whether the gripper of the massage head module is in an off-position state or an on-position state; and A control method for a skin care device characterized by including the step of, when the above-mentioned clamp part is in the ON position, the processor driving at least one of an infrared (IR) LED, a red (RED) LED, a radio frequency (RF), a microcurrent (MC), and an electroporation (EP) function according to a mode set in the massage head module.

10. In Paragraph 9, The above off-position state refers to a state in which the clamp of the clamp part is spread out at a first angle to grasp the skin, and A control method for a skin care device characterized in that the above-mentioned on-position state refers to a state in which the clamp of the clamp part is folded at a second angle to pull the skin held by the clamp.

11. In Paragraph 9, In the step of determining whether the above clamp is in an off-position state or an on-position state, When the clamp part is in the off-position state, and the clamp part is pressed against the skin while the skin is caught between the clamp parts, as the clamp part is pressed against the skin, the hinge of the clamp part gradually folds, and as the skin caught between the clamp parts is pulled between the clamp parts while being held, when the on-position state is reached in which the hinge folding of the clamp part is completed, The above processor is, A control method for a skin care device characterized by driving a function corresponding to a mode set in the massage head module.

12. In Paragraph 11, While the clamp part is pressing the skin in the above-mentioned on-position state, the clamp part maintains a state of pulling the skin, The above processor is, A control method for a skin care device characterized by continuously operating a function corresponding to a mode set in the massage head module while the above-mentioned clamp part maintains a state of pulling the skin.

13. In Paragraph 11, When the clamp part that was pressing the skin begins to lift off the skin, The clamp part that was in the above-mentioned on position begins to switch to the off position, and The above processor is, A control method for a skin care device characterized by stopping the operation of a function corresponding to a mode set in the massage head module as the above-mentioned on position is released.

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