Energy Regenerating End Effector for Skincare Devices

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional skincare devices rely on batteries for power, which can be bulky and limit portability, and lack efficient mechanisms to regenerate energy during use.

Innovation Solution

The integration of an inner end effector structure with magnets and an outer end effector structure with induction coils that generate electrical current through oscillatory motion, allowing for energy harvesting and storage in a capacitor or rechargeable battery, which powers auxiliary devices like LEDs, heat sources, or ultrasound.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Duration of action of moving object

If conventional skincare devices use large batteries for power, then continuous operation is enabled, but portability and device size are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecontinuous operation timeVSAvoiddevice portability

Core Design Contradiction:

Duration of action of moving objectVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The end effector harvests energy from its own oscillatory motion during use through electromagnetic induction. The magnet and induction coil generate electrical current from the mechanical oscillation, allowing the device to recharge itself during operation, thereby extending continuous operation time without requiring larger batteries

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system converts the dynamic oscillatory motion of the end effector during skincare treatment into electrical energy. The relative motion between the magnet and induction coil dynamically generates current that charges the energy storage device, transforming waste mechanical energy into useful electrical energy

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Power

If conventional skincare devices use large batteries for power, then sufficient power is provided, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepower supply capabilityVSAvoiddevice structure

Core Design Contradiction:

PowerVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The device generates its own power during operation through electromagnetic induction. The oscillatory motion of the end effector drives the magnet relative to the induction coil, generating electrical current that charges the energy storage device, eliminating the need for large external power sources

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the conventional mechanical battery-based power system with an electromagnetic energy harvesting system. The mechanical oscillation is converted into electrical energy through electromagnetic induction, providing power with a simpler, more integrated structure

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Use of energy by moving object

If energy is harvested during oscillation, then energy efficiency is improved, but the device requires additional components

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveenergy efficiencyVSAvoiddevice components

Core Design Contradiction:

Use of energy by moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The end effector structures serve dual functions: they perform the primary skincare treatment function through oscillation and simultaneously generate electrical energy through the integrated magnet and induction coil. The oscillating shaft and contacting elements are used both for mechanical treatment and for driving the energy harvesting mechanism

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent combines the energy harvesting components (magnet, induction coil, energy storage device) directly into the end effector structure. This integration merges the treatment function and power generation function into a single unified component, minimizing additional complexity while maximizing energy efficiency

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

This solution enables a portable skincare device with enhanced energy efficiency, reducing the need for large batteries and allowing continuous operation through regenerative energy, while also providing therapeutic benefits like light, heat, or sound.

Implementation Method 1

The at least one magnet and the at least one induction coil cooperate to generate electrical current in the at least one induction coil when the end effector structure oscillates about an axis

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS11413212B2Energy regenerating end effector, and associated systems and methods

Publication Date: 2022.08.16 LOREAL SA

AI summary

A skincare device having energy regenerating end effector is presented. In one embodiment, an end effector includes an inner end effector structure configured to oscillate about an axis. The inner end effector structure includes at least one magnet and a plurality of contacting elements configured to contact skin of a user. The end effector also includes an outer end effector structure having at least one induction coil. The at least one magnet and the at least one induction coil cooperate to generate electrical current in the at least one induction coil when the end effector oscillates about the axis.