Multi-Frequency Oscillating Cosmetic Applicator Head

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing skin treatment devices lack the ability to oscillate at multiple frequencies, which limits their effectiveness in providing tailored skin care routines that can accommodate different skin types and conditions, such as exfoliation and massage, using a single appliance.

Innovation Solution

A personal care appliance with a motor assembly that oscillates an applicator head at distinct frequencies, featuring a combination of brush bristles and an elastomeric surface, controlled by a controller to alternate between frequencies for different skin care protocols, allowing for customized skin treatment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a single frequency oscillation system is used, then the device structure is simple, but the adaptability to different skin types and conditions is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different skin typesVSAvoiddevice structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The motor assembly is designed to dynamically switch between first and second oscillation frequencies based on the type of applicator surface in use. The system transitions from a static single-frequency design to a dynamic multi-frequency system that adapts its oscillation characteristics in real-time according to the attached applicator, thereby improving adaptability without requiring multiple separate devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements changes in the oscillation frequency parameter of the motor assembly. By controlling the motor to operate at different frequency values (first frequency for exfoliation, second frequency for massage), the system can accommodate different skin care needs and applicator types, effectively resolving the contradiction between versatility and complexity through parameter variation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple separate devices are used for different skin care functions, then each device can be optimized for its specific function, but the overall device complexity and number of components increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveskin care function versatilityVSAvoidnumber of components
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a universal personal care appliance that can perform multiple skin care functions through a single motor assembly capable of oscillating at different frequencies. The applicator head with interchangeable surfaces (exfoliating surface, massage surface) combined with the multi-frequency motor assembly enables one device to replace multiple specialized devices, achieving multi-functionality without proportionally increasing complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The applicator head is segmented into different functional surfaces that can be selectively used with the motor assembly. The exfoliating surface and massage surface are designed as separate functional zones or interchangeable components, allowing the user to select the appropriate surface for each skin care task while using the same motor assembly, thus reducing the need for multiple complete devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Ease of operation

If the motor assembly oscillates at multiple frequencies, then tailored skin care routines can be provided, but the control system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecustomized skin treatmentVSAvoidcontrol system
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The control system is designed to automatically detect which applicator surface is attached to the applicator head and autonomously selects the appropriate oscillation frequency without requiring manual input from the user. The system self-adjusts between first and second frequencies based on the detected applicator type, simplifying operation while maintaining the capability for customized skin treatment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The control system incorporates feedback mechanisms that monitor the attached applicator type and adjust the motor assembly's oscillation frequency accordingly. This feedback loop enables the system to automatically adapt to different skin care needs, providing customized treatment routines while keeping the control interface simple for the user.

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

The appliance effectively provides a range of skin care benefits by oscillating at frequencies suitable for different skin types, enhancing exfoliation and massage, while optimizing energy consumption and ease of use through a versatile attachment mechanism.

Implementation Method 1

an appliance body having a motor assembly for oscillating the applicator at a first frequency corresponding to the first applicator surface and a second frequency corresponding to the second applicator surface

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectOscillation: Vibration

Data Source

PatentUS11969392B2Handheld cosmetic device that operates at multiple frequencies
Publication Date: 2024.04.30 LOREAL SA
  • US11969392B2 patent drawing
  • US11969392B2 patent drawing
  • US11969392B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A personal care appliance is provided that includes an applicator head that includes at least a first applicator surface and a second applicator surface, each being configured to contact a skin surface of a user; an appliance body having a motor assembly for oscillating the applicator at a first frequency corresponding to the first applicator surface and a second frequency corresponding to the second applicator surface.