STANDALONE CUSTOM COSMETICS DISPENSER

A cosmetic dispenser comprising a base and a wand structure. The base includes multiple cartridge receptacles configured to receive removable cartridges. Each cartridge is configured to contain a different pigment. The base also includes multiple pumps configured to dispense pigment from the respective cartridge to a container. The wand structure includes a scanner including a skin tone sensor configured to capture data indicative of a user's skin color. The cosmetic dispenser is configured to receive the data indicative of the user's skin color from the wand structure and determine an amount of each pigment in the cartridges needed to create a cosmetic foundation having a shade of the user's skin color when combined with a foundation base. The cosmetic dispenser is configured to cause one or more of the pumps to dispense the amount of each pigment from respective cartridges needed to create the cosmetic.

BACKGROUND

Finding a foundation to match an individual's skin tone can be a difficult and burdensome process. When in search of a foundation, an individual may go to a cosmetics store where they can physically sample an array of foundations available for purchase. Not every cosmetic brand makes a wide range of shades of foundation, so the individual may have a limited selection of foundations to choose from. When assessing a foundation, their view of the foundation is affected by the lighting in the cosmetics store and which area of their body they sampled the foundation on. They may make a subjective choice about which foundation seems to match their skin tone but, after purchase, realize that the foundation does not actually match. Further, their skin tone may change based on sun exposure (or lack thereof), resulting in the foundation also not matching. These difficulties extend to other cosmetic products, such as tinted moisturizer, eye shadow, lipstick, bronzer, and blush.

Though some mobile applications allow individuals to virtually “try on” cosmetic products, these applications are also limited by lighting and often present an inaccurate view of how the cosmetic products would look on an individual. The virtual “try-ons” also deprive individuals of the opportunity to assess the coverage and feel of the cosmetic products on their skin. Thus, a system for creating personalized foundations and other cosmetic products that accurately match a user's skin tone is necessary.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Overview

Traditionally, cosmetic companies have a limited range of shades of foundation. When selecting from among the limited range, users must account for not only the color of their skin (e.g., a shade of light, fair, medium, dark) but also their undertone (e.g., warm, cool, neutral). This often requires a user to guess what foundation would be a good match when shopping online or for the user to go to a physical store to objectively select a foundation. These foundations ultimately may not match the user's skin tone in other environments or as their skin tone changes, requiring the user to begin the process of selecting a foundation again.

Described herein is a cosmetic dispenser that creates and dispenses personalized foundations and other cosmetics. The cosmetic dispenser includes mechanical and electromechanical components that function together to scan a user's skin for a skin tone, determine a pigment combination that matches the skin tone of a user's skin, and dispense the pigment combination into a container. The cosmetic dispenser can include multiple cartridges. For example, the cosmetic dispenser includes a first cartridge that contains a cosmetic base and a second cartridge that contains pigments that can be combined with the cosmetic base to create foundation to match a range of skin tones. The cartridges can be removed from the cosmetic dispenser and replaced when one or more of the pigments and/or cosmetic base runs out.

The cosmetic dispenser can be used in a user's personal environment. For example, a user can keep a cosmetic dispenser in their home to create a personalized foundation whenever they want. That way, when they run out of their foundation or their skin tone changes, they can scan their skin with the cosmetic dispenser and obtain an updated foundation without going to a cosmetics store. The container that holds the foundation is small and reusable, so the user can update their foundation frequently rather than using a large bottle over many months or purchasing a large bottle that they ultimately dispose of before it is empty. Not only is this more environmentally friendly than traditional foundations, but this is also healthier for the user as they are less likely to get an infection from fresh foundation compared to when using old or expired foundation.

The cosmetic dispenser can also be used in a cosmetics store. For example, a cosmetics store may give the device to employees to make personalized foundations for customers on the spot. The employees may also use the cosmetic dispenser to make samples for customers to try before purchase. This is cleaner than using old, singular sample bottles of foundations, which can collect bacteria over time. Using the cosmetic dispenser in this fashion can also reduce the time that customers may need to spend looking for foundations in the store and improve customer satisfaction.

Though described herein in relation to foundation, the cosmetic dispenser may also be used to create personalized versions of other cosmetics, such as blush, bronzer, lipstick, eyeshadow, and the like. By personalizing the cosmetics for a user, the user may more easily access cosmetics that naturally complement their skin tone. The cosmetic dispenser may also be used to formulate personalized skin care products by determining characteristics of a user's skin (e.g., hydrated, acne-prone, dry), hair care products by determining a hair type of the user's hair (e.g., low porosity, curly, fine), and nail care products by determining colors that complement a user's nails or address nail care needs (e.g., cuticle care, brittle nails). The cosmetic dispenser could further use the data to indicate what products a user should apply to moisturize their skin, reduce frizz in their hair, and the like. In some instances, the cosmetic dispenser could be designed to create personalized paint colors for art, walls, external structures, and the like.

Aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the following description, or may be obvious from the description, or may be learned through practice of the invention. One exemplary aspect of the present disclosure is directed to a computer-implemented method of detecting skin tone of a user and dispensing pigments to create a personalized foundation. Other exemplary implementations of the present disclosure are directed to systems, apparatuses, non-transitory computer-readable media, devices, and user interfaces for personalized cosmetic creation and cosmetic recommendations. These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following description.

System

The cosmetic dispenser (or a foundation dispenser) may be a handheld or portable electronic device that includes one or more of a base, a scanner (also referred to as a “wand” herein), and one or more cartridges. The base can include a screen, buttons, a printed circuit board, a computer processor, a motor, a heater, switches, and the like. In some embodiments, the cosmetic dispenser may include additional or alternative components to those described herein. For example, the cosmetic dispenser may have a touchscreen or a screen that is communicatively connected to a series of buttons. The cosmetic dispenser can include a computer system or a portion of a computer system (e.g., a computer system1800described with respect toFIG.18). The cosmetic dispenser can include one or more printed circuit boards (PCBs) or circuit board assemblies (PCBAs) configured to operate the cosmetic dispenser.

FIG.1illustrates views of a cosmetic dispenser100. Section I ofFIG.1illustrates a perspective front view of the cosmetic dispenser100, Section II ofFIG.1illustrates a perspective back view of the cosmetic dispenser100, and Section III ofFIG.1illustrates a side view of the cosmetic dispenser100. The cosmetic dispenser100includes a base102and a removable scanner108. The base102includes a base housing114, a bottom cover112, a top cover116, a drawer104, a rear door106, control buttons118, and a screen110.

FIG.2illustrates an exploded view of exemplary inner core sub-assembly200of the cosmetic dispenser100ofFIG.1. The inner core sub-assembly200inFIG.2includes a back cover202, a cartridge sub-assembly204, pipe clamps206, cartridge connector gaskets208, cartridge connectors210with hinge shafts212, hinge holders214, a cartridge switch PCBA216, an inner frame218, a battery220(e.g., a lithium battery), nozzles222, a dispensing chassis224, light separator226, a drip sensor PCBA228, pumps230(e.g., peristaltic pumps), pump holders232, and a motor interface PCBA234.

The back cover202and the inner frame218are configured to hold and provide structural support for the rest of the inner core sub-assembly200. The back cover202can be positioned to couple with the cartridge sub-assembly204. The cartridge sub-assembly204includes a plurality of cartridges (e.g., a cartridge236) configured to hold one or more foundation bases and one or more pigments. The cartridges are removable from the cosmetic dispenser100so that the cartridges can be replaced and/or refilled. The cartridge sub-assembly204is configured to couple with the cartridge connector210so that the cartridge connector secures the cartridges and positions them so that foundation base or pigment can be dispensed from the respective cartridges to a container. In some embodiments, each of the cartridges is coupled with a pipe clamp for controlling the dispensing of a foundation base or a pigment from the respective cartridge. In some embodiments, the cartridge connector gaskets208are positioned between the cartridge sub-assembly204and the cartridge connectors210to facilitate mechanical coupling and positioning of the cartridge connector gaskets208. The cartridge connector210is further coupled with the hinge holders214and the hinge shaft212that facilitate the coupling and decoupling of the cartridges from the cosmetic dispenser100. The cartridges are described in detail with respect toFIGS.10and11, and the coupling/decoupling of the cartridges with the cartridge connector210is described in detail with respect toFIGS.12and13.

The cartridge sub-assembly204and the cartridge connectors210are coupled with the cartridge switch PCBA216. The cartridge switch PCBA216(and other PCBAs of the cosmetic dispenser100) can include components (e.g., such as a processor and a memory described with respect toFIG.18) for operating one or more components of the inner core sub-assembly200. The cartridge switch PCBA216can facilitate the controlled dispensing of liquids from the cartridges. The cosmetic dispenser is powered by the battery220that is electrically coupled to the cartridge switch PCBA216as well as other components of the cosmetic dispenser100. The dispensing chassis224includes the multiple nozzles222. Each of the nozzles222is configured to couple with the cartridges of the cartridge sub-assembly204to allow dispensing of a foundation base or a pigment from each of the cartridges.

Each of the nozzles222is coupled to a respective pump of the pumps230via a respective tube (e.g., a tube238). The pumps230are secured by the pump holder and operated by the motor interface PCBA234. The pumps230can be peristaltic pumps. The pumps230control the flow of the foundation base and pigments from the cartridges. The pumps230are further coupled with the drip sensor PCBA228including components configured to detect the amount of liquid (e.g., a number of drops) that has exited each of the cartridges during dispensing of the respective foundation base and/or pigments. The drip sensor PCBA228can include or be coupled with multiple drip sensor assemblies including light sources (e.g., infrared (IR) light sources or emitters) and light detectors (e.g., IR detectors) (e.g., see drip sensor assemblies1702including light sources1704and light detectors1706inFIG.17). Each nozzle222can be coupled with a drip sensor assembly on the drip sensor PCBA228. For example, each light source is paired with a drip sensor (or other counter) that captures data used to determine how much pigment has been dispensed. The drip sensor PCBA228is positioned in vicinity of the drip sensor assemblies for fast data transmittal. The light separator226(e.g., an IR light separator) can be positioned on the PCBA228so that the each of the drip sensors assemblies are separated from each to avoid interference between the difference light beams.

The viscosity of the pigments can affect how quickly the pigments are able to exit each cartridge236. The cosmetic dispenser can include one or more heaters coupled with tubes238and/or nozzles222to heat the pigments after the pigments have gone through the pumps, thus increasing flow rate (e.g., changing the viscosity) of the pigments during dispersal. For example, a heater can be positioned adjacent to, or surrounding, a tube coupled with a nozzle of a respective cartridge. The heater can be further electrically coupled with a PCBA (e.g., the cartridge switch PCBA216, the drip sensor PCBA, or the motor interface PCBA234).

FIG.3illustrates an exploded view of an exemplary bottom portion assembly300of the cosmetic dispenser100ofFIG.1. The bottom portion assembly300includes a drawer enclosure302, a drawer spring304, a drawer screw306, a drawer308(corresponding to the drawer104inFIG.1), a bottom PCBA310, self-tapping screws312, a locking mechanism314, a drafter shaft316, a bottom cover318, a sensor cover320, and a sensor cover handle322.

The drawer308is configured for holding a removable container for dispensing liquids from the cartridges described with respect toFIG.2. The drawer308can be coupled with the drawer enclosure302and the bottom cover using the drawer spring304, the drawer screw306, and the drawer shaft so that the drawer308can pivot in and out of the cosmetic dispenser100. The locking mechanism314can be configured to secure the drawer308when the drawer is positioned inserted within the cosmetic dispenser100. The locking mechanism314can include, for example, a solenoid. The operation of the drawer308and drawer enclosure302is described in detail with respect toFIG.15.

The bottom cover318corresponds to the bottom cover112inFIG.1and can be configured to receive the sensor cover320coupled with the sensor cover handle322. The sensor cover320is configured to provide a protective shield for drip sensors described with respect toFIG.2. The sensor cover320is configured to be removable so that the sensor cover320can be inserted and removed through the bottom cover318and positioned to couple with the drip sensor PCBA228including drip sensor assemblies. Alternatively, the drip sensor PCBA228can be coupled with a sensor cover that is non-removable (e.g., the sensor cover is mechanically coupled with the drip sensor PCBA228and is not configured to be easily removable). The sensor cover can be configured to protect the components of the drip sensor PCBA228, such as the light detectors, from dust or staining.

FIG.4illustrates views of the interior of the cosmetic dispenser100according to some embodiments of the present technology. Section I ofFIG.1illustrates a front interior view of the cosmetic dispenser100, Section II ofFIG.1illustrates a back interior view of the cosmetic dispenser100, and Section III ofFIG.1illustrates a side interior view of the cosmetic dispenser100. The interior views illustrate a portion of the components described with respect toFIGS.2and3assembled within the cosmetic dispenser100shown inFIG.1(with housing114and top cover116removed).

FIG.5illustrates an exploded view of the scanner108, the base housing114, and the rear door106of the cosmetic dispenser100. The rear door106is configured to receive within a back portion of the base housing114and be secured within the base housing114with a fastener (e.g., a fastener504). The rear door106can be removed to allow a user to access the interior components of the inner core sub-assembly200described with respect toFIG.2. In particular, a user can use the rear door106to remove and replace the cartridges236in the cartridge sub-assembly204inFIG.2. The front portion of the base housing114inFIG.5defines a cavity (e.g., a notch cavity502) configured to receive the scanner108. The notch cavity502has a shape that corresponds to the cylindrical wand-shape of the scanner108so that that the scanner108can be inserted into, and secured within, the notch cavity502.

FIG.6illustrates an exemplary exploded view of the base housing114with a scanner coupling assembly602, a top PCBA614, and a display assembly622of the cosmetic dispenser100. InFIG.6, the scanner coupling assembly602includes a scanner holder605including an electrical connector604(e.g., a pogo pin PCBA holder) and an electrical connector608. The scanner coupling assembly602further includes magnets606configured to secure the scanner108within the notch cavity502. The electrical connector608is configured to electronically couple the scanner108to the top PCBA614via cables610(e.g., flexible flat cables (FFC)). The top PCBA614can be further coupled with a display620(e.g., a liquid crystal display (LCD)) coupled with the top PCBA614and the screen110with display holder618and a foam tape616. The screen110can include a transparent cover (e.g., a sticker) that provides protection to the display620. The control buttons118can be coupled with the top PCBA614and configured to operate as input devices for the cosmetic dispenser100(e.g., the control buttons118and the display620can correspond to input/output devices1820inFIG.18). In some implementations, a spacer (e.g., a spacer612) is positioned to adjust the relative positioning of the base housing114(e.g., shown inFIG.5) and the rear door106.

FIG.7illustrates an exemplary exploded view of the scanner108of the cosmetic dispenser100. As shown, the scanner108forms a wand structure formed by a top cover702and a bottom cover704. The scanner108also includes a lens708and a lens holder706configured to hold the lens708at a first end region of the scanner108. The scanner also includes a battery714(e.g., a lithium battery) for powering the scanner108, a vibration motor710, and a wand PCBA718. The wand PCBA718can include one or more sensors for detecting skin color and/or contact of the scanner with a user's skin. Foams712,716, and720(e.g., foam sheets and/or foam tape) can be included to reduce movement and vibration of the wand PCBA718and battery714. The scanner108can further include magnets722configured to secure the components of the scanner together.

The scanner108(e.g., the wand PCBA718) can include a skin color sensor (e.g., see a skin color sensor1712inFIG.17) such as a photoelectric sensor, LiDAR sensor, or other sensor capable of capturing data describing skin tone (or shades, hues, and/or colors in other embodiments). The scanner108can further include a touch sensor (e.g., see a touch sensor1714inFIG.17) that captures data that can be used to determine whether the user's skin is in contact with the scanner108. In some embodiments, the vibration motor710can be configured to provide a haptic alert when the touch sensor detects that scanner108(e.g., the first end region of the scanner including the lens708) is in contact with the user's skin. The processing of the data captured by the scanner is described below in relation to the cosmetic support platform. In some embodiments, the scanner108may be removed from the base housing114of the cosmetic dispenser100, capture data describing a user's skin tone, and be reinserted into the cosmetic dispenser100for data processing.

The scanner108can include electrical contacts724that, when in contact with related contacts located within the cosmetic dispenser (e.g., the electric contacts608inFIG.6), communicate that the scanner108is inserted within the notch cavity502of the base housing114of the cosmetic dispenser100.

FIGS.8and9illustrate exemplary perspective views of the scanner108positioned in a cylindrical cavity802of the base housing114of the cosmetic dispenser100. The embodiment ofFIG.8corresponds to the embodiment described with respect toFIGS.5and6, with the exception that inFIG.8, the scanner108is configured to be positioned within a cylindrical cavity802having an opening on the top cover116of the cosmetic dispenser100. The top cover116can include a fastener804(e.g., button or other mechanical fastener) configured to secure the scanner108within the cylindrical cavity802in Section I ofFIG.8. In Section II ofFIG.8, the fastener804is opened to allow the scanner108to be removed from the cosmetic dispenser100, as is shown in Section II ofFIG.8.

FIG.9illustrates a coupling mechanism for the scanner108within the cylindrical cavity802(e.g., including an interior view of the front portion of the cosmetic dispenser100). Section I ofFIG.9includes a bracket902(e.g., a plastic bracket) that forms the cylindrical cavity802for holding the scanner108. The bracket902can be coupled with a piston904(e.g., including a spring) positioned at the bottom of the bracket902. The piston904includes a piston that can control the vertical movement of the scanner108within the bracket902, as shown in Section III ofFIG.9. For example, when the scanner108is released by unfastening the fastener804inFIG.8, the piston904pushes the scanner108up, as shown in Section II ofFIG.9. The scanner108's vertical movement when within bracket902is limited by the piston904. Further, a top region of the piston904can include tabs908that can be inserted within slots of906of the brackets to limit the horizontal movement of the piston904within the bracket906.

FIGS.10and11illustrate a cartridge1000of the cosmetic dispenser100. In some embodiments, the cartridge1000corresponds to the cartridges236described with respect toFIG.2. The cartridges are configured to contain pigments and a foundation base for dispersal into a container. The pigments may include red, green, blue, black, yellow, cyan, magenta, and/or white. The foundation base is a colorless/white liquid that is formulated to create an even complexion when applied to skin. A user can select from among a range of foundation bases that have different properties. For example, if the user wants a moisturizing effect, they may select a foundation base that includes moisturizing ingredients, such as glycerin or hyaluronic acid. If the user wants a glow effect, they may select a foundation base that includes a shimmery substance, such as mica or muscovite.

FIG.10includes an exemplary exploded perspective view of the cartridge1000. The cartridge1000includes a top cover1012, a bottle cap1004, a bottle gasket1006, a foil1008, and a bottle1010(e.g., an airless bottle). The bottle cap1004is configured to be secured within the cartridge connector210inFIG.2so that a liquid (e.g., a foundation base or a pigment) can exit the cartridge1000when the liquid is dispensed from the cartridge. The top cover1002is configured to be removed from the cartridge1000before coupling with the cartridge connector210. The gasket1006and the foil1008can be positioned between the bottle1010and the bottle cap1004to form a leak-proof seal. Section I ofFIG.11includes an exemplary coupled perspective view of the cartridge1000(without the top cover1012). Section II ofFIG.11includes an exemplary cross-sectional view of the cartridge1000in Section I. The cartridge1000includes a bag within the bottle1010. The bag is made of a thin, flexible material that is positioned completely flushed against the interior surface of the bottle1010when the bag is filled with a liquid (e.g., a foundation base or a pigment). When the liquid exits the cartridge1000, the bag is compressed from liquid being pulled out of the bottle1010. InFIG.11, the side surfaces of a bag are illustrated with the bracket lines1014to demonstrate that the bag is flexible and can conform to the shape of the liquid inside the bag.

As described with respect toFIG.2, the cosmetic dispenser100includes the pumps230. Each of the pumps230is coupled with a respective cartridge. The pumps230can be peristaltic pumps. In some embodiments, the pumps230include one or more of diaphragm pumps, centrifugal pumps, piston pumps, and/or plunger pumps for each cartridge. Each pump has a rotating motor (e.g., on the motor interface PCBA234inFIG.2) that, together with gravity, causes pigment to exit its associated cartridge when the motor is running. The motor may be a permanent magnet DC motor, a series DC motor, a DC shunt motor, a separately excited motor, a DC compound motor, an AC motor, or any other suitable motor.

The cosmetic dispenser100may contain a cartridge for red pigment, yellow pigment, blue pigment, black pigment, white pigment, and/or foundation base. The pigment is formulated for application on the skin, as is the foundation base. The foundation base may be uncolored and is used for bringing up or down the coverage level of foundations. For example, using more foundation base results in a higher coverage level of the resulting foundation compared to using less of the foundation base. Foundation is formed by combining pigment with the foundation base. Pigment and foundation base can be mixed by hand to form the foundation or can be mixed with a mixer configured as part of the cosmetic dispenser.

FIGS.12and13illustrate removal of cartridges1000from the cosmetic dispenser100. The cartridges1000are removable from the cosmetic dispenser100for replacement once the pigment contained within runs out. Each cartridge1000sits within a cartridge connector (e.g., the connector210) coupled with a hinge shaft212. The cartridge1000coupled with the connector210can pivot outward for removal, as is shown inFIG.12. Similarly, the cartridge1000can be inserted within the cosmetic dispenser by coupling the cartridge1000with the cartridge connector210coupled with the hinge shaft212and pivoting the cartridge1000back to the cosmetic dispenser100. As shown inFIG.13, the cartridge connector210with the hinge shaft212is coupled with the cartridge switch PCBA216of the cosmetic dispenser100(e.g., as described with respect toFIG.2). The cartridge switch PCBA216includes a set of switches, one for each cartridge. The data captured using the switches is used to determine if a cartridge has been changed within the cosmetic dispenser100.

FIG.14illustrates exemplary views of a top portion of the cosmetic dispenser100. Section I ofFIG.14includes an outer view including the screen110and control buttons118, as described with respect toFIG.1. The buttons118may be capacitive control switches that are able to operate even if exposed to cosmetics or liquid. Section II includes an interior view of the display620and the control buttons118, as described with respect toFIG.6. Also, Section II ofFIG.14shows the sub-assembly204ofFIG.2and the scanner holder605with the electrical connector608and the magnets606ofFIG.6. In some embodiments, the screen110is a touchscreen configured to receive user input. In such embodiments, one or more of the buttons118can be omitted from the cosmetic dispenser100.

FIG.15illustrates operation of the drawer308of the cosmetic dispenser100. Section I ofFIG.15illustrates the drawer308in a closed position. The drawer308is coupled with the drawer enclosure302and the bottom cover318. Section II ofFIG.15illustrates the drawer308in an open position so that the drawer308is pivoted from the drawer enclosure302(e.g., by rotation with help of the screw306and drawer spring304). As shown, the drawer308holds a container1500(also referred to as a “jar” herein) configured to receive the liquids (e.g., a foundation base and one or more pigments) from the cartridges. The drawer308further includes sensors1504that capture data used to determine whether the pivoting drawer308currently contains a container or not. The drawer308further includes an integral molded stop1502for the locking mechanism314, as described with respect toFIG.3. In some embodiments, the drawer308includes a mixing mechanism (e.g., a stirrer) (e.g., see a mixing mechanism1710inFIG.17) configured to mix liquids inside the container1500when the container1500is placed within the drawer308. The mixing mechanism can be configured to mix the foundation and one or more pigments in the container1500to produce a customized foundation.

In some embodiments, the cosmetic dispenser can be connected via a network to a cosmetic support platform (e.g., via a network interface device1812inFIG.18). The cosmetic support platform provides processes and data for a cosmetic dispenser and/or a mobile application embodied on a mobile device. In some embodiments, the user can control the cosmetic dispenser via a user interface of the mobile application presented on their mobile device. The user may also control the cosmetic dispenser via a set of buttons and other interactive elements directly on the cosmetic dispenser, such that the user does not need to use the mobile application to operate the cosmetic dispenser.

The network can be any type of communications network, such as a local area network (e.g., intranet), wide area network (e.g., Internet), or some combination thereof. The network can also include a direct connection between a mobile device and the cosmetic support platform. In general, communication between the cosmetic support platform can be communicatively coupled to mobile devices over a short-range wireless connectivity technology, such as Bluetooth®, Near Field Communication (NFC), Wi-Fi® Direct (also referred to as “Wi-Fi P2P”), and the like. As an example, the cosmetic support platform is embodied as a mobile application that is executable by a mobile phone or tablet computer. In such embodiments, the mobile phone or tablet computer may be communicatively connected to (i) a cosmetic dispenser and (ii) a computer server via the Internet.

The cosmetic dispenser communicates data captured by its sensors to the cosmetic support platform. The cosmetic support platform can be located at the cosmetic dispenser, such that the user can use the cosmetic dispenser without connection to a network, or can be located external to the cosmetic dispenser. The cosmetic platform may present information via a mobile application at a mobile device of a user to aid in the foundation creation process. For instance, the cosmetic platform may guide a user, via a graphical user interface (GUI) presented at their mobile device, through establishing a connection to the cosmetic dispenser, calibrating the cosmetic dispenser, and scanning their skin for the foundation creation process. The cosmetic support platform can also guide the user through setting up a subscription service. When signed up for the subscription service, the user is automatically sent new cartridges once their cartridges run out (as determined by data from the drip sensors) or on a periodic basis based on how often they typically run out of each cartridge. The user can select what type of foundation base they want to receive (e.g., for a matte effect, a dewy effect, or sun protection) via the GUI and update their choice periodically.

The cosmetic support platform analyzes data received from the cosmetic dispenser to determine how much pigment and foundation base to dispense into the container. For instance, the cosmetic support platform receives data from the scanner indicating a skin tone of the user. The data can describe the skin color and undertone (e.g., shade) of the user's skin. The cosmetic support platform may output a representation of the shade to a screen at the cosmetic dispenser such that the user can approve the color before the cosmetic dispenser dispenses pigment and foundation base.

The cosmetic support platform may additionally or alternatively render a GUI for display via a mobile application at the user's mobile device. The cosmetic support platform may depict the representation of the shade via the GUI along with interactive elements that the user can interact with to approve or adjust (e.g., lighten, darken, change undertone) the shade. The cosmetic support platform can also facilitate a virtual “try-on” of the foundation based on pre-captured or real-time image data of the user, such that the user can see a representation of what the shade of foundation would look like on their face. The user can interact with the GUI to further adjust the shade to increase coverage (e.g., light, medium, full) of the foundation or color correct the foundation, such as to reduce redness. In some embodiments, the cosmetic support platform may alter the representation to correspond with a user's outfit or jewelry. For example, if the user is wearing gold jewelry, they may want the foundation to have a yellow undertone to match the gold.

The cosmetic support platform may apply a machine learned model to data describing the user to determine a shade for the user's foundation. The data can include the data captured by the scanner, previous shades determined for the user, what the user is wearing in an input image, and the like. The machine learned model outputs a shade that can be created using pigments in the cartridges. The machine learned model can be trained on other foundation shades labeled with scanner data, images of users, and the like and can be retrained upon receiving more data from the cosmetic dispensers of other users. The machine learned model may be one or more of a classification model, regression model, deep learning model, neural network, decision tree, or another artificial intelligence algorithm.

The cosmetic support platform may make recommendations to the user based on the selected shade. For instance, the cosmetic support platform may render a GUI depicting other cosmetic products, clothing, and/or accessories (collectively, “products”) in colors that complement the shade. In some embodiments, the cosmetic support platform uses a machine learned model to determine what products the user may like. The cosmetic support platform inputs the shade to the machine learned model, which outputs products that users with similar shades have purchased (or otherwise indicated that they liked via the mobile application). The machine learned model may be trained on other users' shades, each labeled with products that the associated user purchased. The machine learned model can be retrained periodically on new data captured at the cosmetic support platform. This allows the user to see current trends in the fashion market that may complement their skin tone.

Once the cosmetic support platform has received an indication from the user that they approve of the shade, the cosmetic support platform applies a pigment algorithm to determine an amount of each of available pigments (red, yellow, blue, white, black, foundation base) needed to create the shade. Including the color of the foundation base in the calculation allows the cosmetic support platform to control a coverage level of the foundation. For instance, the cosmetic support platform may use a larger amount of foundation base (compared to the other pigments) for light coverage and use a smaller amount of foundation base (compared to the other pigments) for full coverage.

The color algorithm determines a mixture of the available pigments that corresponds to the shade. The color algorithm can convert light color, which is additive, to physical color, which is subtractive. The color algorithm may operate based on one or more of the cyan, magenta, yellow, and black (CMYK) color model and the red, green, and blue (RGB) color model. The color algorithm may use dynamic math, one or more databases, and one or more models to determine the pigments to use to create the shade.

Once the color algorithm has determined the ratio of the pigments needed to create the shade, the cosmetic support platform determines a number of drops of each pigment needed to create the shade based on an amount of foundation base being used. For example, to create 5 milliliters of foundation, the cosmetic support platform may use 50 drops of foundation base and 50 drops of pigments in the determined ratio. For each pigment and the foundation base, the cosmetic support platform causes the motor of the associated cartridge to turn on and receives data describing how many drops have exited the cartridge from the associated drip sensor. The cosmetic support platform causes the motor to turn off such that only the calculated amount of pigment and foundation base are expressed into the container. If the cosmetic platform determines that no drops are being expressed from a cartridge, the cosmetic support platform may send an alert via the mobile application that the cartridge is empty or may automatically order a replacement cartridge for the user. In some embodiments, the cosmetic support platform causes a mixer coupled to the container to mix the pigments and foundation base.

In some embodiments, to increase the flow rate of the pigment and/or foundation base (e.g., liquid), or to prevent leakage from the nozzle, the cosmetic platform causes an associated motor to reverse after the liquid has passed the motor to suck the liquid back up the tubing associated with the liquid, which heats up the liquid. The motor re-reverses to express the liquid into the container, either through the same tube or a connected tube.

FIG.16is a flow diagram that illustrates processes1600for creating a custom foundation. The custom foundation is configured to have a customized shade that matches with a skin tone of a user. The process1600can be performed with a cosmetic device (e.g., the cosmetic dispenser100and its various components described in this specification). In some embodiments, device includes the computer system1800described with respect toFIG.18, or portions of it.

At1602, the device can receive data describing a user's skin tone from a skin color sensor (e.g., the scanner108inFIG.1). In some embodiments, the device can collect the data describing the user's skin tone with the skin color sensor. The skin color sensor is removable from the device (e.g., as shown inFIG.5). Subsequent to the data collection, the skin color sensor can be electronically coupled to a base of the cosmetic dispenser and transmitting the data from the skin color sensor to the cosmetic dispenser. The skin color sensor and its operation are described with respect toFIGS.5through9.

At1604, the device can convert the data to a color format to determine a shade of the user's skin tone.

At1606, the device can determine an amount of each of a set of pigments needed to create the shade when combined with a foundation base. For example, the pigments can include a red, green, blue, black, yellow, cyan, magenta, and/or white colored pigment. The foundation base can be a colorless/white liquid that is formulated to create an even complexion when applied to skin.

For each pigment, at1608the device can activate a pump (e.g., the pumps230inFIG.2) connected to a cartridge (e.g., the cartridges236inFIG.2) containing the pigment. The cartridge containing the pigment can include a flexible bag configured to collapse as the pigment leaves the cartridge. The cartridges are described with respect toFIGS.10and11.

At1610, the device can receive for each pigment data describing a number of drops of the pigment that has left the cartridge from a drip sensor positioned at an end of the cartridge. In some embodiments, the device can heat the pigment during dispensing of pigment from the respective cartridge by a heater coupled to the pump.

At1612, the device can deactivate the pump such that the determined amount of pigment has left the cartridge. The device can combine the number of drops of the pigment with the foundation base to create a custom foundation having the shade of the user's skin tone. For example, the pigments and the foundation base are dispensed to a container (e.g., the container1500inFIG.15). The container can be removed from the device and mixed to form a uniform custom foundation having the shade of the user's skin tone.

Exemplary Embodiments

FIG.17is a block diagram illustrating some components of the cosmetic dispenser100. In some embodiments, the cosmetic dispenser includes a base and a wand structure. The can base can include multiple cartridge receptacles (e.g., cartridge connectors) configured to receive removable cartridges (e.g., cartridges236inFIG.2and cartridge1000inFIGS.10and11). Each of the removable cartridges can be configured to contain a different pigment. The base can include multiple pumps (e.g., the pumps230inFIG.2). Each of the pumps can be coupled to a respective cartridge receptacle of the cartridges and configured to dispense pigment from the respective cartridge to a container. The wand structure can include a scanner (e.g., the scanner108inFIG.1) including a skin color sensor configured to capture data indicative of a user's skin tone. The wand structure can be physically removable from the base to operate the scanner. The dispenser can also include a cavity (e.g.,FIGS.5through9) configured to receive the wand structure and electrically couple to the base.

The dispenser can include a controller (e.g., a PCBA such as any of the PCBAs216,234, and228) configured to receive the data indicative of the user's skin color from the wand structure when the wand structure is disposed in the cavity of the base and electrically coupled to the controller. The controller can determine an amount of each pigment in the cartridges needed to create a cosmetic foundation having a shade of the user's skin color when combined with a foundation base. The controller can cause one or more of the pumps to dispense from respective cartridges the amount of each pigment needed to create the cosmetic foundation having the shade of the user's skin tone when combined with the foundation base in the container.

In some embodiments, the cosmetic dispenser further includes drip sensors (e.g., the drip sensor assemblies1702including light sources1704and light detectors1706). Each of the drip sensors can be coupled to an end of a respective cartridge. Each of the drip sensors can be configured to detect an amount of pigment dispensed from the respective cartridge. The controller can be configured to deactivate the one or more of the pumps when the drip sensors detect that the amount of each pigment needed has been dispensed.

In some embodiments, the cosmetic dispenser further includes one or more heaters coupled to the pumps (e.g., see heaters1708inFIG.17). The one or more heaters can be configured to heat the pigment during the dispensing of pigment from the respective cartridge.

In some embodiments, the skin color sensor (e.g., the skin color sensor1712) includes a photoelectric sensor or a Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) sensor.

In some embodiments, the scanner includes a touch sensor (e.g., the touch sensor1714) configured to determine whether the scanner is in contact with the user's skin.

In some embodiments, the cavity is a cylindrical cavity (e.g., the cylindrical cavity inFIG.8) or a notch cavity (e.g., the notch cavity502inFIG.6) at least partially surrounded by the base. The wand structure can be removable from the cylindrical cavity or the notch so that the scanner can be uncoupled from the cosmetic dispenser to measure the user's skin color. In some embodiments, the wand structure can be configured to be inserted into the cavity to electrically couple to the base.

In some embodiments, the wand structure is configured to be disposed in the cavity so that a portion of an outer surface of the wand structure forms a portion of an outer surface of the base when the wand structure is disposed in the cavity (e.g., seeFIG.1).

In some embodiments, the cosmetic dispenser further includes a foundation base cartridge receptacle (e.g., the cartridge connectors210) configured to receive a foundation base cartridge configured to contain the base for the foundation. The cosmetic dispenser can include an additional pump configured to dispense the foundation base from the foundation base cartridge to the container. The controller can be further configured to cause the additional pump to dispense an amount of foundation base from the foundation base cartridge to the container.

In some embodiments, the controller is further configured to determine the shade of the user's skin tone by converting the data indicative of the user's skin color into a color format.

In some embodiments, the cartridges include flexible bags configured to collapse as pigment is dispensed from the cartridges (e.g.,FIG.11).

In some embodiments, the pumps include peristaltic pumps, diaphragm pumps, centrifugal pumps, piston pumps, or plunger pumps.

In some embodiments, the base further includes a mixer (e.g., the mixing mechanism1710) configured to mix the container including the dispensed pigments and the base in the container.

In some embodiments, a cosmetic dispenser (e.g., the cosmetic dispenser100inFIG.1) includes a base including one or more receptacles configured to hold removable cartridges. Each cartridge can contain a different pigment. The base can include one or more pumps. Each pump can be coupled to one of the one or more cartridges. Pigment can be expressed from the cartridge when the pump is on (activated). The base includes a heater that heats pigment after the pigment has traveled through one of the one or more pumps. The base can include one or more drip sensors. Each drip sensor can be coupled to an end portion of one of the one or more cartridges. The cosmetic dispenser can include (or be configured to communicate with) a scanner including a photoelectric sensor at the end of a wand structure. The photoelectric sensor captures data describing color. The cosmetic dispenser can include a circuit board connected to the one or more pumps, the heater, the one or more drip sensors, and the photoelectric sensor for data capture. The cosmetic sensor can include a processor that receives data from the circuit board. The processor can include instructions that, when executed, cause the processor to receive data describing a user's skin tone from the scanner. The processor can convert the data to a color format to determine a shade of the user's skin tone and determine an amount of each pigment in the removable cartridges needed to create the shade when combined with a foundation base. For each pigment, the processor can activate a pump of the pumps connected to a cartridge containing the pigment and receive data describing a number of drops of the pigment that has left the cartridge from a sensor positioned at an end of the cartridge. The processor can deactivate the pump such that the determined amount of pigment has left the cartridge.

Computer System

FIG.18is a block diagram that illustrates an example of a computer system1800in which at least some operations described herein can be implemented. As shown, the computer system1800can include: one or more processors1802, main memory1806, non-volatile memory1810, a network interface device1812, video display device1818, an input/output device1820, a control device1822(e.g., keyboard and pointing device), a drive unit1824that includes a storage medium1826, and a signal generation device1830that are communicatively connected to a bus1816. The bus1816represents one or more physical buses and/or point-to-point connections that are connected by appropriate bridges, adapters, or controllers. Various common components (e.g., cache memory) are omitted fromFIG.18for brevity. Instead, the computer system1800is intended to illustrate a hardware device on which components illustrated or described relative to the examples of the figures and any other components described in this specification can be implemented.

The computer system1800can take any suitable physical form. For example, the computer system1800can share a similar architecture as that of a server computer, personal computer (PC), tablet computer, mobile telephone, game console, music player, wearable electronic device, network-connected (“smart”) device (e.g., a television or home assistant device), AR/VR systems (e.g., head-mounted display), or any electronic device capable of executing a set of instructions that specify action(s) to be taken by the computer system1800. In some implementation, the computer system1800can be an embedded computer system, a system-on-chip (SOC), a single-board computer system (SBC) or a distributed system such as a mesh of computer systems or include one or more cloud components in one or more networks. Where appropriate, one or more computer systems1800can perform operations in real-time, near real-time, or in batch mode.

The network interface device1812enables the computer system1800to mediate data in a network1814with an entity that is external to the computer system1800through any communication protocol supported by the computer system1800and the external entity. Examples of the network interface device1812include a network adaptor card, a wireless network interface card, a router, an access point, a wireless router, a switch, a multilayer switch, a protocol converter, a gateway, a bridge, bridge router, a hub, a digital media receiver, and/or a repeater, as well as all wireless elements noted herein.

The memory (e.g., main memory1806, non-volatile memory1810, machine-readable medium1826) can be local, remote, or distributed. Although shown as a single medium, the machine-readable medium1826can include multiple media (e.g., a centralized/distributed database and/or associated caches and servers) that store one or more sets of instructions1828. The machine-readable (storage) medium1826can include any medium that is capable of storing, encoding, or carrying a set of instructions for execution by the computer system1800. The machine-readable medium1826can be non-transitory or comprise a non-transitory device. In this context, a non-transitory storage medium can include a device that is tangible, meaning that the device has a concrete physical form, although the device can change its physical state. Thus, for example, non-transitory refers to a device remaining tangible despite this change in state.

REMARKS

Although the Detailed Description describes certain embodiments and the best mode contemplated, the technology can be practiced in many ways no matter how detailed the Detailed Description appears. Embodiments may vary considerably in their implementation details while still being encompassed by the specification. Particular terminology used when describing certain features or aspects of various embodiments should not be taken to imply that the terminology is being redefined herein to be restricted to any specific characteristics, features, or aspects of the technology with which that terminology is associated. In general, the terms used in the following claims should not be construed to limit the technology to the specific embodiments disclosed in the specification unless those terms are explicitly defined herein. Accordingly, the actual scope of the technology encompasses not only the disclosed embodiments but also all equivalent ways of practicing or implementing the embodiments.