COSMETIC APPLICATOR

Abstract

A system for providing a customizable cosmetic substance for human application includes a first cosmetic reservoir housing a first cosmetic substance; a second cosmetic reservoir housing a second cosmetic substance; and a mixing reservoir in communication with the first and second cosmetic reservoirs, the mixing reservoir selectively receiving a portion of each of the first and second cosmetic substances from the first and second reservoirs, thereby creating a third cosmetic substance. The system further includes a non-transitory computer memory and an input device in data communication with a processor. The input device is positioned to receive input information from a user. The input information from the input device is compared to a user profile stored in the non-transitory computer memory. The portions of the first and second cosmetic substances mixed to form the third cosmetic substance are determined based on the comparison of the input information to the user profile.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 15/787,232, filed Oct. 18, 2017, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 15/481,254, filed Apr. 6, 2017, which issued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,814,297 on Nov. 11, 2017, the disclosure of each is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference.

BACKGROUND

Products containing color pigments that are intended to alter a wearer's appearance when applied to the skin are commonly referred to as makeup. Makeup that is meant to be used on the face is traditionally applied with a brush, a sponge, or fingertips. Properly applying makeup to the skin can be a lengthy process that requires training and experience, and many people feel that they are unable to properly apply makeup to themselves. Accordingly, various schools offer programs in cosmetology or makeup artistry. Yet some people may not want to visit a cosmetologist on a regular (e.g., daily) basis, due for example to cost and time constraints. And cosmetologists may not always be readily available.

Embodiments of the current invention relate generally to makeup applicators and methods of applying makeup.

SUMMARY

The following presents a simplified summary of the invention in order to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the invention. This summary is not an extensive overview of the invention. It is not intended to identify critical elements of the invention or to delineate the scope of the invention. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts of the invention in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented elsewhere.

According to one embodiment, a system is provided for automatically applying makeup to a human face located in an application zone. The makeup applicator includes a non-transitory computer memory; a scanning device positioned to obtain facial-structure information, facial-position information, and facial-tone information from the application zone; a carriage; carriage actuators for moving the carriage laterally and transversely adjacent the application zone; a cosmetic airbrush unit coupled to and movable with the carriage; and a processor in data communication with the computer memory, the scanning device, and the carriage actuators. The cosmetic airbrush unit has an output nozzle, a supply passage for supplying makeup from a cosmetic reservoir to the output nozzle, and a valve selectively allowing the makeup to flow through the supply passage and the output nozzle. The valve is in data communication with the processor. Programming causes: (a) the scanning device to obtain the facial-structure information, the facial-position information, and the facial-tone information; (b) the computer memory to store the obtained facial-structure information, the obtained facial-position information, and the obtained facial-tone information; (c) the carriage actuators to selectively move the carriage; and (d) the airbrush unit valve to selectively allow the makeup to flow through the supply passage and the output nozzle, whereby applying the makeup to the human face.

According to another embodiment, a system is provided for automatically applying makeup to a human face located in an application zone. The makeup applicator includes a non-transitory computer memory; a scanning device positioned to obtain facial-structure information and facial-position information from the application zone; a carriage; carriage actuators for moving the carriage laterally and transversely adjacent the application zone; a cosmetic airbrush unit coupled to and movable with the carriage; and a processor in data communication with the computer memory, the scanning device, and the carriage actuators. The cosmetic airbrush unit has an output nozzle, a supply passage for supplying makeup from a cosmetic reservoir to the output nozzle, and a valve selectively allowing the makeup to flow through the supply passage and the output nozzle. The valve is in data communication with the processor. Programming causes: (a) the scanning device to obtain the facial-structure information and the facial-position information; (b) the computer memory to store the obtained facial-structure information and the obtained facial-position information; (c) the carriage actuators to selectively move the carriage; and (d) the airbrush unit valve to selectively allow the makeup to flow through the supply passage and the output nozzle, whereby applying the makeup to the human face.

According to still another embodiment, a system is provided for automatically applying makeup to a human face located in an application zone. The makeup applicator includes a non-transitory computer memory; a scanning device positioned to obtain facial-structure information, facial-position information, and facial-tone information from the application zone; a carriage; carriage actuators for moving the carriage laterally and transversely adjacent the application zone; a cosmetic airbrush unit coupled to and movable with the carriage; and a processor in data communication with the computer memory, the scanning device, and the carriage actuators. The cosmetic airbrush unit has first and second output nozzles, a first supply passage for supplying first makeup from a first cosmetic reservoir to the first output nozzle, a first valve selectively allowing the first makeup to flow through the first supply passage and the first output nozzle, a second supply passage for supplying second makeup from a second cosmetic reservoir to the second output nozzle, and a second valve selectively allowing the second makeup to flow through the second supply passage and the second output nozzle. The first valve is in data communication with the processor, and the second valve is in data communication with the processor. Programming causes: (a) the scanning device to obtain the facial-structure information, the facial-position information, and the facial-tone information; (b) the computer memory to store the obtained facial-structure information, the obtained facial-position information, and the obtained facial-tone information; (c) the carriage actuators to selectively move the carriage; (d) the first valve to selectively allow the first makeup to flow through the first supply passage and the first output nozzle, whereby applying the first makeup to the human face; and (e) the second valve to selectively allow the second makeup to flow through the second supply passage and the second output nozzle, whereby applying the second makeup to the human face.

According to yet another embodiment, a system is provided for automatically applying makeup to a human face located in an application zone. The makeup applicator includes a first cosmetic reservoir housing first makeup; a second cosmetic reservoir housing second makeup; a mixing reservoir in communication with the first and second reservoirs; a non-transitory computer memory; a scanning device positioned to obtain facial-structure information, facial-position information, and facial-tone information from the application zone; a carriage; carriage actuators for moving the carriage laterally and transversely adjacent the application zone; a cosmetic airbrush unit coupled to and movable with the carriage; and a processor in data communication with the computer memory, the scanning device, the carriage actuators. The mixing reservoir selectively receives the first makeup and the second makeup from the first and second reservoirs, whereby creating a third makeup. The cosmetic airbrush unit has a first output nozzle, a first supply passage for supplying the first makeup from the first reservoir to the first output nozzle, a first valve selectively allowing the first makeup to flow through the first supply passage and the first output nozzle, a second output nozzle, a second supply passage for supplying the second makeup from the second reservoir to the second output nozzle, a second valve selectively allowing the second makeup to flow through the second supply passage and the second output nozzle, a third output nozzle, a third supply passage for supplying the third makeup from the mixing reservoir to the third output nozzle, and a third valve selectively allowing the third makeup to flow through the third supply passage and the third output nozzle. The first valve is in data communication with the processor, the second valve is in data communication with the processor, and the third valve is in data communication with the processor. Programming causes: (a) the scanning device to obtain the facial-structure information, the facial-position information, and the facial-tone information; (b) the computer memory to store the obtained facial-structure information, the obtained facial-position information, and the obtained facial-tone information; (c) the carriage actuators to selectively move the carriage; (d) the first valve to selectively allow the first makeup to flow through the first supply passage and the first output nozzle, whereby applying the first makeup to the human face; (e) the second valve to selectively allow the second makeup to flow through the second supply passage and the second output nozzle, whereby applying the second makeup to the human face; and (f) programming causing the third valve to selectively allow the third makeup to flow through the third supply passage and the third output nozzle, whereby applying the third makeup to the human face.

According to still yet another embodiment, a system is provided for automatically applying a cosmetic product to a human face located in an application zone. The cosmetic applicator includes a non-transitory computer memory; a scanning device positioned to obtain facial-structure information, facial-position information, and facial-tone information from the application zone; a carriage; carriage actuators for moving the carriage laterally and transversely adjacent the application zone; a cosmetic unit coupled to and movable with the carriage to apply the cosmetic product to the face; and a processor in data communication with the computer memory, the scanning device, and the carriage actuators. Programming causes: (a) the scanning device to obtain the facial-structure information, the facial-position information, and the facial-tone information; (b) the computer memory to store the obtained facial-structure information, the obtained facial-position information, and the obtained facial-tone information; and (c) the carriage actuators to selectively move the carriage.

According to a further embodiment, a system for providing a customizable cosmetic substance for human application includes a first cosmetic reservoir housing a first cosmetic substance; a second cosmetic reservoir housing a second cosmetic substance; and a mixing reservoir in communication with the first and second cosmetic reservoirs, the mixing reservoir selectively receiving a portion of each of the first and second cosmetic substances from the first and second reservoirs, thereby creating a third cosmetic substance. The system further includes a non-transitory computer memory and an input device in data communication with a processor. The input device is positioned to receive input information from a user. The input information from the input device is compared to a user profile stored in the non-transitory computer memory. The portions of the first and second cosmetic substances mixed to form the third cosmetic substance are determined based on the comparison of the input information to the user profile.

In still another embodiment, a method for determining a customizable cosmetic substance for human application comprises the following steps, which may or may not be completed in this order: (1) providing a housing having a first cosmetic reservoir for housing a first cosmetic substance, a second cosmetic reservoir for housing a second cosmetic substance, and a third cosmetic reservoir in communication with the first and second reservoirs; (2) providing a first input device for receiving an input data from the user; (3) retrieving, via the input device, the initial input data from the user; (4) developing a user profile based on the initial input data; (5) providing a second input device for receiving a second input data from the user; (6) retrieving, via the second input device, the second input data from the user; (7) comparing the second input data with the user profile; (8) determining at least one disparity between the user profile and the second input data; (9) mixing a portion of the first cosmetic substance and a portion of a second cosmetic substance in the third cosmetic reservoir to form a third cosmetic substance; and (10) dispensing the third cosmetic substance to the user. The respective portions of the first and second cosmetic substances are based on the disparity between the user profile and the second input data.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a makeup applicator according to an embodiment of the current invention, shown with a user.

FIG. 2 is another perspective view of the makeup applicator of FIG. 1, shown with a user but with various structure removed for illustration.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating aspects of the makeup applicator of FIG.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating other aspects of the makeup applicator of FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating still other aspects of the makeup applicator of FIG. 1.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating various steps performed by the makeup applicator of FIG. 1.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart further illustrating various steps performed by the makeup applicator of FIG. 1.

FIG. 8 is a facial map illustrating example contour and highlighting mapped to the face by the makeup applicator of FIG. 1.

FIG. 9 is a block diagram illustrating aspects of a makeup applicator according to another embodiment of the current invention.

FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating other aspects of the makeup applicator of FIG. 9.

FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating still other aspects of the makeup applicator of FIG. 9.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating various steps performed by the makeup applicator of FIG. 9.

FIG. 13 illustrates alternate carriage actuators according to an embodiment of the current invention.

FIG. 14 illustrates an alternate cosmetic unit that may be used in embodiments of the current invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIGS. 1 through 8 illustrate a cosmetic applicator, and more specifically a system for automatically applying cosmetic (e.g., makeup or moisturizer) 20 to a human face 10 located in an application zone 5, according to an embodiment 100 of the current invention. The makeup applicator 100 includes non-transitory computer memory 110, a processor 120, a scanning device 130, an input 140, a carriage 150, carriage actuators 160, a cosmetic unit 170, and various programming as discussed below.

The computer memory 110 (FIG. 3) may include volatile and non-volatile memory, and any appropriate data storage devices whether now existing or later developed may be used. Further, the computer memory 110 may be a unitary memory in one location, or may alternately be a distributed computer memory such that one portion of the computer memory is physically separate from another portion of the non-transitory computer memory. In other words, discrete computer memory devices may be linked together (e.g., over a network) and collectively form the computer memory 110. While this document shall often refer to elements in the singular, those skilled in the art will appreciate that multiple such elements may often be employed and that the use of multiple such elements which collectively perform as expressly or inherently disclosed is fully contemplated herein.

The processor 120 (FIG. 3) may be any appropriate device, whether now existing or later developed, which performs the operations specified by the various programming used by the makeup applicator 100. The processor 120 may be electronic circuitry located on a common chip or circuit board, or may be a distributed processor such that one portion of the processor is physically separate from another portion of the processor. The processor 120 is in data communication with the computer memory 110, the scanner 130, the input 140, the output 145, the carriage actuators 160, and the cosmetic unit 170.

The scanner 130 uses three-dimensional sensors 132 to capture information about the face 10, including facial-structure information 1010 (which may include, for example, information regarding face shape and contour of the eyes, nose, cheeks, jaw, chin, and skin) and facial-position information 1050 (information regarding where the face 10 is located, preferably in real time). Facial scanning and mapping is disclosed, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 7,124,066 to Marschner and U.S. Pat. No. 5,852,672 to Lu; the contents of each are incorporated herein in their entirety by reference. The scanner 130 further includes the ability to detect facial-tone information 1020, either through the sensors 132 or different sensors. Facial-tone information 1020 may include, for example, information about the tint of the face 10 at various locations of the skin. FIGS. 1 and 2 show that multiple sensors 132 may be positioned about the application zone 5, including on the carriage 150.

The input 140 (FIG. 3) may be any input device (whether now existing or later developed) allowing a person to input personal preference information 1030 for storage in the computer memory 110. For example, the input 140 may be a touchscreen, a keyboard, a computer mouse, a microphone, or a barcode reader. Personal preference information 1030 is discussed in additional detail below.

The output 145 (FIG. 3) may be any appropriate output device (whether now existing or later developed). For example, the output 145 may be one or more of a visual display, an audible output, and a scent dispersing device. The output 145 may be used to entertain the user, to provide ambiance, and to provide interaction with the processor 120. For example, the output 145 may provide visual/audible programming (either preset or selectable), one or more scents, and instructions (e.g., instructions to close eyes, reposition the user, et cetera).

The carriage 150 (FIG. 2) supports the cosmetic unit 170 and is selectively moved in three dimensions adjacent the application zone 5 by the carriage actuators 160. In essence, the carriage 150 and the carriage actuators 160, together with software and processing, equate to a computer numerical control (“CNC”) system. One prior art CNC system is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,218,639 to Bulle, the contents of which are incorporated herein in their entirety by reference. Like in Bulle, the actuators 160 allow movement in x, y, and z directions.

As shown in FIGS. 2 and 4, the carriage actuators 160 may include a drive mechanism 161 and rail 162 system which allows lateral travel, a drive mechanism 163 and rail 164 system which allows transverse (in the depicted orientation, vertical) travel, and a drive mechanism 165 and rail 166 system which allows further transverse (in the depicted orientation, front/back) travel. Drive mechanisms providing travel along rails in CNC systems are disclosed, for example, in Bulle. The carriage actuators 160 may further include a rotating member 167, which may rotate about a single axis or in multiple dimensions (such as through a ball-and-socket joint). In other embodiments, the carriage actuators 160 may include a set of curved rails 162′ (FIG. 13) which allow lateral and front/back travel and another set of rails 164′ which allow vertical travel. In such embodiments, the cosmetic unit 170 may be properly angled as the carriage 150 travels along the curved rails 162′, and a rotating member such as 167 may be unnecessary or may rotate a more limited amount. And in still other embodiments, the carriage actuators 160 may include a robotic arm movable in at least lateral and transverse directions adjacent the application zone 5. One such robotic arm which may be utilized in the current invention is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 8,694,160 to Yasue, the contents of which are incorporated herein in their entirety by reference.

The cosmetic unit 170 is coupled to and movable with the carriage 150, as shown in FIG. 2. As shown in FIG. 5, the cosmetic unit 170 may include a cosmetic airbrush 171 having an output nozzle 172, a supply passage 174 for supplying the makeup 20 from a cosmetic reservoir 180 to the output nozzle 172, and a valve 175 selectively allowing the makeup 20 to flow through the supply passage 174 and the output nozzle 172. The valve 175 is in data communication with the processor 120. In some embodiments, the cosmetic reservoir 180 is separate from the carriage 150 and the supply passage 174 includes tubing extending to the cosmetic reservoir 180. In other embodiments, the cosmetic reservoir 180 is supported by the carriage 150 and may even be formed as part of the cosmetic unit 170. Example cosmetic airbrushes 171 are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 9,061,295 to Fedorov, U.S. Pat. No. 8,757,516 to Spiegel, and U.S. Pat. No. 4,742,963 to Marvaldi; the contents of each are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

A pressurized-air source 190, such as an air tank housing compressed air or a compressor for compressing air, is in communication with the cosmetic airbrush 171 (e.g., through tubing 194), as shown in FIG. 5. And another valve 195 in data communication with the processor 120 controls passage of the pressurized air. The makeup 20 is dispensed from the output nozzle 172 when both the pressurized air and the makeup 20 are supplied through the valves 175, 195. Fedorov further discusses the flow of makeup and pressurized air.

Returning now to FIG. 3, the computer memory 110 has various files and subfiles for containing programming and data. A user profile file 1000, a scanner software file 1100, a cosmetic database 1200, and a custom session file 1300 are illustrated. The cosmetic database 1200 includes makeup composition information 1210 (e.g., makeup identification information, makeup color information, et cetera) and baseline makeup application information 1220 (e.g., baseline routines for applying makeup to different face shapes; to different contours of the eyes, nose, cheeks, jaw, chin, and skin; to different skin tones; to obtain different makeup styles; et cetera). Programming, for example in the scanner software file 1100, causes the scanning device 130 to obtain the facial-structure information 1010 and the facial-tone information 1020, and to repeatedly obtain the facial-position information 1050 (preferably in real time), and causes the obtained information 1010, 1020, 1050 to be stored (e.g., in the user profile file 1000). Other programming (e.g., in the user profile file 1000) allows personal preferences 1030 to be obtained through the input 140 and stored. The personal preferences 1030 may include, for example, desired makeup style information, desired color palette information, available makeup, et cetera. And still other programming causes the processor 120 to create the custom session file 1300 based on data from the facial-structure information 1010, the facial-tone information 1020, the user preference file 1030, and the baseline makeup application information 1220. And using the custom session file 1300 and the then-current facial position information 1050, the processor 120 causes the carriage actuators 160 to selectively move the carriage in a defined manner and causes the valves 175, 195 to selectively allow the makeup 20 to flow through the supply passage 174 and the output nozzle 172 to apply the makeup 20 to the face 10.

The following description is an example of the makeup applicator 100 in use according to an embodiment. At step S100 at method S10, the processor 120 obtains user preference information 1030 via the input 140 and stores the user preference information 1030 in the computer memory 110. And at steps S110, S120, and S130, the processor 120 obtains facial-position information 150, facial structure information 1010, and facial-tone information 1020 via the scanner 130 and stores the facial-position information 150, the facial structure information 1010, and the facial-tone information 1020 in the memory 110. At step S140, the processor 120 creates custom session file 1300 based on data from the facial-structure information 1010, the facial-tone information 1020, the user preference file 1030, and the baseline makeup application information 1220. Step S140 is explained in additional detail below with reference to FIG. 7.

After step S140, the processor 120 at step S150 obtains updated facial-position information 1050 via the scanner 130 and stores the updated facial-position information 1050 in the computer memory 110. And at steps S160 and S170, the processor 120 causes the carriage actuators 160 to move the carriage 150 in accordance with the custom session file 1300 and the facial-position information 1050, and causes the valves 175, 195 to selectively allow the makeup 20 to flow through the supply passage 174 and the output nozzle 172 to apply the makeup 20 to the face 10. After steps S160 and S170, the processor 120 determines at S180 if the custom session file 1300 has been fully executed for the particular makeup 20. If not, the process returns to step S150; if so, the process S10 ends at step S190.

Attention is now directed to FIG. 7, where step S140 is further illustrated. As an example, the facial-structure information 1010 indicates that the face 10 has an oval facial structure and a particular contour of the eyes, nose, cheeks, jaw, chin, and skin; the skin-tone information 1020 indicates a warm skin tone; and the user preference file 1030 indicates that highlighting and contouring is desired in a particular palette, and that particular contouring makeup 20 is available for selection or already in the cosmetic reservoir 180. At step S141, the processor 120 accesses the skin-tone information 1020, the user preference file 1030, and the makeup color information 1210, and look-up tables or logic causes the processor 120 to either confirm that the available shade of contour (makeup 20) is appropriate or suggest an available shade based on the warm skin tone, the desired palette, and the makeup properties. At step S142, the processor 120 accesses the facial-structure information 1010 and the baseline makeup application information 1220, and look-up tables or logic causes the processor 120 to determine that the contour (makeup 20) should be applied to certain facial areas based on the oval face shape and the contour of the eyes, nose, cheeks, jaw, chin, and skin. At step S143, the processor maps the facial areas determined in step S142 onto the specific facial structure of the face 10; an example mapping is illustrated in FIG. 8, showing contour makeup 20a and highlighting makeup 20c mapped to the face 10. In some embodiments, a virtual reality output (e.g., through a projector output 145 projecting an image of the mapped makeup 20 on the user's face 10, or through a display screen output 145 showing an image of the user's face 10 with the mapped makeup 20) may be used to allow the user to verify (through the input 140) the proposed makeup application. And at step S144, the processor creates an instruction file for controlling the carriage actuators 160 and the valves 175, 195 to achieve the specific layout of the makeup 20 mapped onto the face 10 in step S143. The instruction file created in step S144 may be keyed to a particular facial position. Thus, as the facial-position information 1050 indicates that the facial position has changed, the processor 120 may adjust the actual operation of the carriage actuators 160 and the valves 175, 195 accordingly in steps S160, S170.

FIGS. 9 through 12 illustrate another makeup applicator 200 that is substantially similar to the embodiment 100, except as specifically noted and/or shown, or as would be inherent. Further, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the embodiment 100 (and thus the embodiment 200) may be modified in various ways, such as through incorporating all or part of any of the various described embodiments, for example. For uniformity and brevity, reference numbers from 200 to 299 may be used to indicate elements corresponding to those discussed above numbered from 100 to 199 (e.g., computer memory 210 corresponds generally to the computer memory 110, processor 220 corresponds generally to the processor 120, scanner 230 corresponds generally to the scanner 130, output 245 corresponds generally to the output 145, carriage actuators 260 correspond generally to the carriage actuators 160, et cetera), though with any noted, shown, or inherent deviations. And reference numbers 2000 to 2999 may be used to indicate elements corresponding to those discussed above numbered from 1000 to 1999 (e.g., user profile file 2000 corresponds generally to the user profile file 1000, facial-structure information 2010 corresponds generally to the facial-structure information 1010, skin-tone information 2020 corresponds generally to the skin-tone information 1020, user preference file 2030 corresponds generally to the user preference file 1030, facial-position information 2050 corresponds generally to the facial-position information 1050, scanner software file 2100 corresponds generally to the scanner software file 1100, the cosmetic database 2200 corresponds generally to the cosmetic database 1200, makeup composition information 2210 corresponds generally to the makeup composition information 1210, baseline makeup application information 2220 corresponds generally to the baseline makeup application information 1220, custom session file 2300 corresponds generally to the custom session file 1300), though with any noted, shown, or inherent deviations.

In embodiment 200, the cosmetic unit 270 accesses multiple cosmetic reservoirs 280 (e.g., 280a, 280b, 280c, 280d), with each containing a different makeup 20 (e.g., a first contour makeup may be in the reservoir 280a, a second contour makeup may be in the reservoir 280b, a first highlighting makeup may be in the reservoir 280c, and a second highlighting makeup may be in the reservoir 280d). The cosmetic unit 270 may additionally access a mixing reservoir 281, which is described further below. In the embodiment 200, cosmetic airbrush 271 has multiple output nozzles 272. FIG. 10 shows that an output nozzle 272 may be associated with each reservoir 280, 281 (e.g., through a respective supply passage 274 and valve 275 in data communication with the processor 220). While FIG. 10 shows a single pressurized-air source 290 connected through tubing 294a, 294b, 294c, 294d, 294e, multiple pressurized-air sources 290 may instead be used.

The mixing reservoir 281 may be initially empty of makeup 20, but may be in communication with multiple cosmetic reservoirs 280 (e.g., through passages 284 and valves 285 as shown in FIG. 11). In some embodiments, the mixing reservoir 281 is below the cosmetic reservoirs 280 to allow makeup 20 to be gravity fed from the cosmetic reservoirs 280 into the mixing reservoir 281 when permitted by the valves 285. The valves 285 are in data communication with the processor 220, and sensors 286 (e.g., flow sensors, weight sensors, et cetera) may further be in communication with the processor 220 for determining how much makeup 20 passes from the cosmetic reservoirs 280 to the mixing reservoir 281.

Use of the makeup applicator 200 differs from use of the makeup applicator 100 in two main ways. First, the makeup applicator 200 may create custom makeup 20 by mixing together different makeup 20 in the mixing reservoir 281. Second, the makeup applicator 200 has multiple output nozzles 272 and may spray multiple types of makeup 20, sometimes simultaneously. Process S20 in FIG. 12 corresponds generally to the process S10 discussed above and shown in FIG. 6, and for uniformity and brevity, reference numbers from S200 to S299 may be used to indicate steps corresponding to those discussed above numbered from S100 to S199 (e.g., steps S100, S110, S120, S130, S140, S150, S160, S170, S180, S190 correspond generally to steps S200, S210, S220, S230, S240, S250, S260, S270, S280, S290), though with any noted, shown, or inherent deviations. Especially with multiple types of makeup 20 being used in the makeup applicator 200, it may be important to correctly, quickly, and easily identify the types of makeup 20 available and the specific locations of the makeup 20 (i.e., which makeup 20 is in which cosmetic reservoir 280). To this end, it may be particularly useful for the different types of makeup 20 to be associated with unique identifiers (e.g., bar codes), and for the input 240 to include one or more sensors (e.g., bar code scanners). Thus, the user preference information 2030 obtained at step S200 may include makeup identity and location information for at least two types of makeup 20, obtained by the processor 220 via a sensor of the input 240.

In the process S20, at step S240, the processor 220 further creates mixing information in the custom session file 2300 based on the user preference information 2030 and the makeup composition information 2210. At step S241, the processor 220 causes the valves 285a, 285b to pass makeup 20a, 20b from the cosmetic reservoirs 280a, 280b to the mixing reservoir 281 to create makeup 20e, based on the custom session file 2300 created at step S240 and data from the sensors 286a, 286b. And at step S270, to apply makeup 20 to the face 10, the processor 220 causes the valves 275a, 295a to selectively allow makeup 20a to flow through the supply passage 274a and the output nozzle 272a, the valves 275b, 295b to selectively allow makeup 20b to flow through the supply passage 274b and the output nozzle 272b, the valves 275c, 295c to selectively allow makeup 20c to flow through the supply passage 274c and the output nozzle 272c, the valves 275d, 295d to selectively allow makeup 20d to flow through the supply passage 274d and the output nozzle 272d, and the valves 275e, 295e to selectively allow makeup 20e to flow through the supply passage 274e and the output nozzle 272e, all in accordance with the custom session file 2300 and the facial-position information 2050. For a period of time, the processor 220 may cause makeup 20 to be sprayed through multiple nozzles 272 simultaneously.

FIG. 14 illustrates another cosmetic unit 370 that may be used in embodiments of the current invention. For uniformity and brevity, reference numbers from 300 to 399 may be used to indicate elements corresponding to those discussed above numbered from 200 to 299 (e.g., cosmetic airbrush 371 corresponds generally to the cosmetic airbrush 271). The cosmetic unit 370 differs from the cosmetic unit 270 in two main ways: the cosmetic unit 370 has a blotter 376a, a brush 376b, a washing device 376c (e.g., washing cloth or pad, cleanser sprayer, et cetera), a gas applicator 376d (e.g., gas or aerosol sprayer, et cetera), and a tattoo gun 376e. In embodiments having the blotter 376a, the brush 376b, the washing device 376c, the gas applicator 376d, and/or the tattoo gun 376e, part of the custom session file 1300/2300 may include instructions for how to move and actuate those elements.

Some embodiments may further include an ionizing device to provide a negative charge to the user (and thus the face 10), and utilize a cosmetic product 20 having a positive charge. This may result in improved absorption of the cosmetic product 20. The ionizing device may include a mat that the user sits upon or rests her feet upon, a handle that the user holds, et cetera.

In embodiments, the makeup applicators 100, 200, and/or 300 may be used to provide and/or apply substances other than makeup. According to an embodiment of the invention, sensors, such as those described herein or different sensors, may be utilized to determine a specific characteristic about a user which may be utilized by the system to automatically determine the substance to be provided and/or applied to the user. For example, sensors are described herein for determining a user's skin tone. The processor (e.g., processor 120 or 220, or another processor) may receive an input from the sensor (e.g., skin tone) and use the input to automatically determine a particular mixture of a substance to be applied to the user's face.

Furthermore, the makeup applicator 100, 200, or 300 can be both a tool for modifying a user's aesthetic, as well as a diagnostic tool which may be used in conjunction with a user's physician to ensure the health of the user. In embodiments, biometric sensors, either alone or in combination with the makeup applicator 100, 200, or 300, may be configured to communicate information over a network (e.g., a wireless network) to provide information to one or more authorized users of the information, such as the user's physician. Each user may create a profile (which may include the user profile 1000) for storing information about the user. As is known to those of skill in the art, the biometric sensors may be used to authenticate the user and allow access to the information stored in the profile (e.g., the user profile 1000 for the purpose of applying makeup, or the user's skin profile as described above), and ensure that subsequent user information from the various sensors is stored in the correct profile. In embodiments, information from the sensor may be directly saved into the user's electronic medical records (EMR). The information obtained from the one or more sensors can thus be stored (e.g., in a remote database) for access by authorized users at any time.

For example, a sensor may be disposed at or near the user's face to take samples from the user's skin to determine an appropriate regimen to ensure the health of the user. In one embodiment, the sensor may be used to collect samples over a period of time (e.g., one day, one week, one month, two months, etc.) to determine a user's skin profile. The user's skin profile may comprise an average reading of certain characteristics which may be specific to each user, and define the user's “healthy” skin profile. The user's skin profile may be stored in a database (e.g., as part of the user profile 1000) for comparison against later readings, and may be updated from time to time. Characteristics that may be measured include, but are not limited to presence of certain contaminants or compounds, amount of oils on the user's skin, etc.

When the user engages with the makeup applicator (e.g., 100, 200, 300, etc.), the sensor may take a skin sample from the user. The skin sample may then be compared to the user's healthy skin profile stored in the system. Based on the skin sample, the processor may determine a particular pre-makeup or post-makeup skin regimen (e.g., cleansing and moisturizing regimen) which would be most appropriate for the user. Therefore, in embodiments, the reservoirs 180, 280 may hold several different types of cosmetics, including makeup, and/or other topical skin treatments or ointments such as cleansers, moisturizers and/or serums. Additionally, it shall be understood that many reservoirs 180, 280 may be provided, and that the cosmetics stored in the reservoirs 280 may be combined in a mixing reservoir (e.g., reservoir 281) as described herein and provided to the user for topical application to the user's face. In embodiments, topical skin treatments may be applied and absorbed by the skin to provide micronutrients to the user. Such substances may include ointments having vitamins such as thiamine, riboflavin, pantothenic acid, pyridoxine and vitamin D. Because the skin samples are unique to each user, it shall be understood that the topical application of substances may be uniquely determined for each user. The sensor(s) may be configured to determine exact, or substantially exact, amounts of each substance which would provide the most benefit to a particular user. It may therefore be necessary for the makeup applicator 100, 200, or 300 to have access to a variety of different substances in its reservoirs 180, 280 which may readily be accessed.

Makeup may optionally be subsequently applied to the user's face after the pre-makeup skin regimen is complete. The makeup may be applied to the user's face according to the embodiments described above.

In another embodiment, the makeup applicator 100, 200, or 300 additionally, or alternately, includes other biosensors for analyzing user information. For example, an oral sensor may be provided and configured to detect information about a user from the user's saliva. The oral sensor may be connected to, or separate from, the makeup applicator 100, 200, or 300. However, in embodiments where the oral sensor is separate from the makeup applicator 100, 200, or 300, information from the oral sensor may be shared with the makeup applicator 100, 200, or 300 for informing the determination of the appropriate application of makeup (or other topical substances) for a user. For example, the oral sensor may determine that a user is lacking in a vitamin. This information may be shared with the makeup applicator 100, 200, or 300, which, via the processor, can then determine the appropriate topical substances to provide to the user to compensate for the deficiencies.

Other biosensors may include thermometers, optical sensors, eye recognition sensors, blood glucose monitors, and others. Each sensor may be configured to provide information about the user, and that information can be used in the determination of the appropriate cosmetics to apply to the user. In embodiments, information from the one or more sensors may additionally, or alternately, be utilized by the makeup applicator 100, 200, or 300 to provide substances for ingestion by the user. In one example, one or more of the reservoirs 180 or 280 has an ingestible substance which may be dispensed to the user, e.g., in a powder form. The ingestible substance may include vitamins, minerals (e.g., protein peptides), powdered fruits and/or vegetables, and/or other nutritional substances. Similar to the topical cosmetics, a particular ingestible nutritional regimen may be defined for each user, each time the user utilizes the machine. The makeup applicator 100, 200, or 300, via the processor, can determine the appropriate nutritional substances (e.g., amounts of one or more ingestible substances) to provide to the user to compensate for any deficiencies identified by the sensors.

In addition to informing the machine 100, 200, or 300 of a specific output for a particular user, be it a makeup profile, a pre-makeup regimen, or a vitamin regimen, information from the sensors may be stored in a database (e.g., as part of the user's profile 10000) and/or sent to third parties, such as the user's physician, for further analysis and discussion. For example, the facial scanner (e.g., scanner 130) may scan a user's face for skin tone information. The scanner 130 takes pictures of the user's face which may be used to provide specific information about the health of the user based only on the pictures of the user's skin. For example, jaundice is a disease that is known to affect the color of one's skin due to the buildup of bilirubin in the blood. The facial scanner may be configured to capture photos of the user's face over time such that small, abnormal, changes in the user's skin tone can be recognized and addressed, if needed. Other common skin irritations may be identified and stored in the user's profile for consideration by the user's physician, such as the presence of a new rash, new growths, abnormal skin discolorations, and changes in texture. Other sensors may also store information in the user's profile to alert the user's doctor that there may be an issue that should be addressed.

Many different arrangements of the various components depicted, as well as components not shown, are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Embodiments of the present invention have been described with the intent to be illustrative rather than restrictive. Alternative embodiments will become apparent to those skilled in the art that do not depart from its scope. A skilled artisan may develop alternative means of implementing the aforementioned improvements without departing from the scope of the present invention. It will be understood that certain features and subcombinations are of utility and may be employed without reference to other features and subcombinations and are contemplated within the scope of the claims. The specific configurations and contours set forth in the accompanying drawings are illustrative and not limiting. Some steps may be performed in different orders than described herein.

Claims

1. A system for providing a customizable cosmetic substance for human application, comprising:

a first cosmetic reservoir housing a first cosmetic substance;

a second cosmetic reservoir housing a second cosmetic substance;

a mixing reservoir in communication with the first and second cosmetic reservoirs, the mixing reservoir selectively receiving a portion of each of the first and second cosmetic substances from the first and second reservoirs, thereby creating a third cosmetic substance; and

a non-transitory computer memory;

a processor in data communication with the computer memory; and

an input device positioned to receive input information from a user, the input device being in communication with the processor;

wherein: the input information from the input device is compared to a user profile stored in the non-transitory computer memory; the portions of the first and second cosmetic substances mixed to form the third cosmetic substance are determined based on the comparison of the input information to the user profile; and the third cosmetic substance is provided to the user.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein programming causes the input information to be stored in the computer memory.

3. The system of claim 2, wherein the input information is used to update the user profile.

4. The system of claim 3, wherein the user profile is an electronic medical record accessible by an authorized third party.

5. The system of claim 2, wherein programming causes the input information to be transmitted over a network to an authorized third party.

6. The system of claim 1, wherein the first and second cosmetic substances are fragrances.

7. The system of claim 1, wherein the first and second cosmetic substances are ingestible nutrients selected from the list consisting of: vitamins, minerals, powdered protein, powdered fruits, and powdered vegetables.

8. The system of claim 7, wherein the third cosmetic substance is a nutritional powder for ingestion by the user.

9. The system of claim 8, wherein the biometric sensor is an oral sensor, and wherein the input information is analyzed from a sample of saliva from the user.

10. The system of claim 8, wherein the biometric sensor is selected from the list consisting of: a thermometer, an optical sensor, an eye recognition sensor, and a blood glucose sensor.

11. The system of claim 1, wherein the input device is a biometric sensor.

12. The system of claim 1, wherein the biometric sensor is a facial scanner.

13. The system of claim 12, wherein the input information is skin tone information.

14. A method for determining a customizable cosmetic substance for human application, comprising:

providing a housing having a first cosmetic reservoir for housing a first cosmetic substance, a second cosmetic reservoir for housing a second cosmetic substance, and a third cosmetic reservoir in communication with the first and second reservoirs;

providing a first input device for receiving an input data from the user;

retrieving, via the input device, the initial input data from the user;

developing a user profile based on the initial input data;

providing a second input device for receiving a second input data from the user;

retrieving, via the second input device, the second input data from the user;

comparing the second input data with the user profile;

determining at least one disparity between the user profile and the second input data;

mixing a portion of the first cosmetic substance and a portion of a second cosmetic substance in the third cosmetic reservoir to form a third cosmetic substance; and

dispensing the third cosmetic substance to the user;

wherein the respective portions of the first and second cosmetic substances are based on the disparity between the user profile and the second input data.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein the first and second input devices are the same input device.

16. The method of claim 14, wherein the input device is a biometric sensor.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein the each of the first and second cosmetic substance is an ingestible nutrient selected from the list consisting of: vitamins, minerals, powdered protein, powdered fruits, and powdered vegetables.

18. The method of claim 16, wherein each of the first and second cosmetic substance is a topical substance.

19. The method of claim 14, further comprising:

storing the user profile in a database; and

storing the second input data in the database, wherein the user profile is updated based on the second input data.

20. The method of claim 19, further comprising:

transmitting the second input data to an authorized third party.