Beauty Tool Viewfinder Positioning for Precise Skin Application

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Solution Overview

Problem

Hand-held devices for applying facial skin treatments and cosmetics are difficult to position precisely on specific areas due to obstruction by the device itself during application, especially for spray actives.

Innovation Solution

Incorporation of an optical system with a camera and viewfinder in the dispenser device to enable precise targeting of the dispensing nozzle, combined with sensors and motors for automated control and adjustment, allowing for accurate application on desired skin conditions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a hand-held dispenser device is used for applying facial skin treatments, then portability and ease of use are improved, but positioning precision on specific skin areas deteriorates due to device obstruction

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveportabilityVSAvoidpositioning precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses a camera to capture an image of the skin area and displays it on a viewfinder, creating a visual copy of the target area. This allows the user to see the dispensing zone without needing to directly view it, eliminating the obstruction problem while maintaining positioning precision. The camera system provides a replicated visual representation that guides the application process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The viewfinder acts as an intermediary between the user and the skin area. Instead of directly viewing the skin surface, the user views the camera-captured image on the viewfinder. This intermediary system allows precise positioning without the device blocking the view of the target area.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If the device structure is simplified for ease of use, then ease of operation is improved, but positioning precision and control deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of useVSAvoidpositioning accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The camera and viewfinder system provides real-time visual feedback to the user about the dispensing zone. The user can see the captured image on the viewfinder and adjust the device positioning accordingly, creating a feedback loop that enables precise control without requiring complex mechanical structures. The visual feedback system allows intuitive adjustment for accurate positioning.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables precise and accurate application of formulations to specific skin areas by providing real-time visual feedback and automated control, enhancing user precision and consistency.

Implementation Method 1

a lens and an image sensor that converts light into electronic signals

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhotoelectric Effect: Photoelectric Effect

Implementation Method 2

the camera includes one or more mirrors that reflect the image to the viewfinder

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectReflection: Reflection

Data Source

PatentUS12550997B2Visual assistance for precise beauty tool positioning and self application at home
Publication Date: 2026.02.17 LOREAL SA
  • US12550997B2 patent drawing
  • US12550997B2 patent drawing
  • US12550997B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A hand-held dispenser device includes a dispensing nozzle, wherein the dispensing nozzle is configured to point toward a dispensing direction, a camera configured to receive an image of a dispensing zone that the dispensing nozzle points toward, and a viewfinder that displays the image of the dispensing zone that the dispensing nozzle points toward. The camera and viewfinder enable the user to precisely point the device to treat a desired area.