Patent ID: 12207867

MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

First Embodiment

As illustrated inFIG.1, a light irradiation beauty device1of a first embodiment includes a device body10and a light irradiation unit20.

The light irradiation beauty device1is a device for performing depilation treatment. The light irradiation beauty device1irradiates a user's body (for example, a face, hand, leg, or the like) with high luminance light from the light irradiation unit20to burn the body hair for removal, and damage hair roots to suppress growth or regeneration of the body hair.

The light irradiation beauty device1continuously irradiates a user's skin with the light of the light irradiation unit20while being moved on the skin surface by the user.

(Device Body10)

The device body10includes a tip end portion10a, a rear end portion10b, a partition unit10c, and vents10dand10e. In the device body10there are disposed a terminal unit110, an operation unit112, a cooling fan114, and a control board130.

The device body10may also include a chargeable secondary battery, a power cable for inputting power of the secondary battery or power from a commercial power source or the like into the light irradiation unit20, or may also include a cable for transmitting or receiving a signal for controlling light irradiation timing of the light irradiation unit20.

In the device body10, corner units are generally rounded so that a user can easily hold the device body10with one hand. The device body10has a gently curved shape overall (a substantially circular arc shape as a whole).

To the tip end portion10a, the light irradiation unit20is detachably attached. Although not illustratively described herein, the tip end portion10aincludes a holding mechanism for holding the light irradiation unit20.

The holding mechanism is not particularly limited insofar as the light irradiation unit20is prevented from becoming easily detached from the tip end portion10a. The holding mechanism may, for example, comprise a magnet. In this case, it is desirable that at least a part of the light irradiation unit20is formed from a metal. The tip end portion10aand the light irradiation unit20may include magnets of opposite polarities.

In the rear end portion10b, the terminal unit110is exposed.

The partition unit10cis located in the tip end portion10ainside the device body10. The partition unit10cfaces the attached light irradiation unit20. Although not shown, a contact terminal for electrical connection of the light irradiation unit20is disposed in the partition unit10c. The holding mechanism described above may be provided in the partition unit10c.

The vents10dpenetrate from the front surface to the rear surface of the device body10. The vents10dare exhaust ports.

The vents10epenetrate from the front surface to the rear surface of the partition unit10c. In this embodiment, the vents10dare inlet ports.

The terminal unit110is provided to connect the light irradiation beauty device1to a commercial power source. The commercial power source enables the light irradiation unit20to emit light and/or enables charging of the secondary battery. The terminal unit110is connected to the control board130by a cable, not shown.

The operation unit112has switches and a display, for example. The operation unit112is provided on the front surface of the device body10. The operation unit112is located on the opposite side to the vents10d. The switches include a main switch for a user to turn ON/OFF a main power source of the light irradiation beauty device1, a light irradiation switch, and an operation mode switching switch, for example.

When a user operates the light irradiation switch, the user can manually emit light from the light irradiation unit20at a desired timing.

When a user operates the operation mode switching switch, the user can change an operative light irradiation intensity of the light irradiation unit20, or prevent use of (a function of) the light irradiation switch.

The display includes a Light Emitting Diode (LED) or a liquid crystal display, for example. The display enables a user to know a present operating mode of the light irradiation beauty device1.

The cooling fan114is a sirocco fan or a turbo fan, for example. The cooling fan114draws outside air into the device body10through the light irradiation unit20attached to the tip end portion10aand the vents10e(see “Air1” in the figure). The air drawn into the device body10is exhausted via the vents10d(see “Air2” in the figure).

(Light Irradiation Unit20)

As illustrated inFIG.2andFIG.3A, the light irradiation unit20includes a chassis210(a body having a first surface in contact with the skin surface), a xenon tube212(light emitting element), a transparent glass214, a main roller220(first roller), an imaging unit240, and an auxiliary roller290(second roller).

The light irradiation unit20irradiates skin with light from the xenon tube212.

The light irradiation unit20is configured to be detachably attached to the device body10. By this configuration, when the xenon tube212deteriorates over time, for example, the light irradiation unit20can be replaced.

The chassis210includes a skin contact surface (first surface), an opening210b(an opening provided in the body having the first surface), a touch sensor unit210d(contact detection means), an imaging unit240, and vents210e. The chassis210houses the xenon tube212, the transparent glass214, the auxiliary roller290, and the main roller220.

The imaging unit240includes optical systems, such as a camera and a lens; and analysis systems, such as a light receiving element and an image processing processor. The imaging unit240images the skin contact surface to acquire image data, performs image processing (for example, generation of feature information indicating a color tone, condition, and the like of the skin) as necessary, and then outputs image processing results.

The skin contact surface is the front surface of the chassis210and contacts the skin surface of a user in depilation treatment. Preferably, the skin contact surface is coated with glass, plastic, or the like to facilitate smooth movement on the skin surface of the user.

The opening210bis provided from the skin contact surface toward the inside of the chassis210. Light emitted by the xenon tube212passes through the opening210band is guided to the skin. The shape of the opening210bis substantially rectangular.

The long side of the opening210bis along the rotation axis direction of the main roller220rotatably provided to be partially exposed from the first surface.

The length of the short side of the opening210bis the “length of the width along a direction orthogonal to the rotation axis of the main roller220.” Herein, the description “along a direction orthogonal to the rotation axis of the main roller220” has the same meaning as the description “along the movement direction of the light irradiation beauty device1.”

The touch sensor unit210dis a part around the opening210bof the skin contact surface. The touch sensor unit210dincludes a capacitive touch sensor, for example. The capacitive touch sensor may be either a surface type or a projection type. The touch sensor is electrically connected to the control board130.

When a skin surface of a user contacts the touch sensor unit210d, a current flows between the touch sensor and the control board130, or a voltage is applied therebetween. The control board130detects the current or the voltage and thereby detects whether the skin surface of a user is in contact with the circumference of the opening210b. The touch sensor unit210dmay include an electronic circuit to convert the current or the voltage into a digital signal and output the digital signal to the control board130. The touch sensor unit210dmay output a signal indicating a presence or absence of the contact. For example, Presence of contact: 1 and Absence of contact: 0 are referred to.

The touch sensor is not particularly limited so long as contact of the skin surface of a user can be detected. The touch sensor unit210dcan include touch sensors of various systems, such as a resistance film system, a surface acoustic wave system, an infrared system, and an electromagnetic induction system, for example. Further, the touch sensor unit210dcan also include an illuminance sensor for detecting illuminance in the opening210b. The illuminance sensor detects variance in illuminance in the opening210bupon closure of the opening due to contact with a user's skin, for example. The control board130can detect whether the skin surface of the user contacts the touch sensor unit210dbased on the detected illuminance.

The vents210epenetrate from the front surface to the rear surface of the chassis210. The vents10dare inlet ports. By driving the cooling fan114of the device body10, the outside air flows into the chassis210from the vents210e, and into the device body10. The inflowing air cools the xenon tube212.

The xenon tube212is provided in the opening210b.

The transparent glass214is fitted into the opening210b. The transparent glass214cuts (reduces a wavelength range of ultraviolet rays) ultraviolet rays included in light of the xenon tube212. The transparent glass214prevents a user from inadvertently putting a finger or the like into the opening210b.

The auxiliary roller290is a long and thin barrel-shaped roller a diameter of which at both ends is smaller than that at the center. When a user moves the device body10in a vertical direction in the sheet surface ofFIG.3Awhile applying the device body10to a skin contact surface, the auxiliary roller290rotates around an axis arranged in the horizontal direction on the same sheet surface. Under rotation of the auxiliary roller290, the device body10is able to smoothly move on the skin contact surface. The shape of the auxiliary roller290may be a cylinder without being limited to a barrel. In a preferred aspect, the shape may be one that facilitates stable movement in a specific direction (vertical direction on the sheet surface in this example). The rotation axis of the auxiliary roller290is preferably the same as that of the main roller220. More specifically, the rotation axis of the auxiliary roller290is preferably provided in parallel to the longitudinal direction of the opening210b. Further, in a preferred aspect, the auxiliary roller290is not formed to process irregularities, and thus is smooth. Hence, when a user moves the device body10in a skin contact state the user can easily change the direction of movement from the rotation direction (vertical direction on the sheet surface) to a direction different therefrom (a direction having a horizontal direction component on the sheet surface).

As illustrated inFIG.3AandFIG.3B, the main roller220is provided on the opposite side to the auxiliary roller290with the opening210binterposed therebetween. The main roller220has a center portion226-3fixed to the chassis210and a left roller226-1and a right roller226-2arranged on both sides of the center portion226-3. The surfaces of the left roller226-1and the right roller226-2are preferably subject to an anti-slip treatment.

At least one part of the main roller220contacts skin, with different diameters at the center portion and the end portions. More specifically, the diameter gradually increases toward the outside from the center portion on the rotation axis. As a result, stability of straight travel is enhanced.

Further, as illustrated inFIG.3C, it is preferable that a height projection from the skin contact surface of the main roller220is greater than the height projection from the skin contact surface of the auxiliary roller290, as viewed from the side. In addition, it is preferable that the radius of rotation (average radius of rotation) of the main roller220is greater than the radius of rotation (average radius of rotation) of the auxiliary roller290. In other words, although, when the skin contact surface is pressed against skin in parallel thereto, the skin can contact both the main roller220and the auxiliary roller290because the skin has elasticity, and an arrangement by which the main roller220firmly (with high adhesion) contacts the skin is preferable. Thus, there are achieved both stability of straight travel, which is largely due to the structure of the main roller220, and flexibility of directional change, which is largely due to provision of the auxiliary roller290.

Further, a user can change a distribution of pressure applied to the main roller220and the auxiliary roller290by adjusting an angle of inclination between the skin contact surface and skin and/or a degree of force applied (abutting force; closeness degree), as appropriate. As a result, stability of straight travel and flexibility of directional change inherent to the device body10can be adjusted as appropriate.

The shape and the arrangement of the main roller220and the auxiliary roller290disclosed inFIG.2,FIG.3A,FIG.3B, andFIG.3Care examples only. For example, the diameter of the left roller226-1and the right roller226-2may decrease from the center toward the outside as is the case with the auxiliary roller290.

Conversely, the diameter of the auxiliary roller290may increase from the center toward the outside.

In short, because two rollers having different functions and roles can contact skin, operability is improved.

(Main Roller220)

As illustrated inFIG.4andFIG.5, the main roller220includes a board221, shaft-holding stands222,223, a rotation shaft224, and a detection unit230(signal output means) as internal structures. The left roller226-1and the right roller226-2are connected to the rotation shaft224, but are not shown in the figures.

The board221holds the shaft-holding stands222,223, the rotation shaft224, the left roller226-1, the right roller226-2, and the detection unit230. On the board221, an electronic circuit connected to the detection unit230is formed. The electronic circuit includes a connection pin221afor transmitting or receiving a signal. The electronic circuit includes electronic devices (for example, an IC chip, resistive element, capacitor, and coil element), which are not shown.

The shaft-holding stands222,223are columns. The shaft-holding stands222,223are provided on the board221. The shaft-holding stands222,223face each other at a predetermined distance from each other. The shaft-holding stands222,223are arranged apart from each other along the long side of the opening210billustrated inFIG.2.

The shaft-holding stand222includes through-holes222a.

The through-holes222aare arranged in successive series from the bottom (board221side) toward the top. The rotation shaft224is rotatably inserted into the through-holes222a.

The shaft-holding stand223includes through-holes223a. The through-holes223aare arranged in series from the bottom (board221side) toward the top. The positions where the through-holes223aare disposed (height from the board221) correspond to the positions of the through-holes222a.

The rotation shaft224is rotatably inserted into the through-holes223a.

The length in the longitudinal direction of the rotation shaft224is greater than the distance between the shaft-holding stands222,223. As a result, the right and left ends of the rotation shaft224are located outside the shaft-holding stands222,223, respectively.

In parts located outside the shaft-holding stands222,223, locking members, which are not shown, are provided. The locking members prevent the rotation shaft224from detaching from the shaft-holding stands222,223. Any locking member is acceptable without being particularly limited so long as it is structured so that detachment can be prevented. The locking member is a flange or a nut having a diameter larger than the diameters of the through-holes222aand223a, for example. Detachment is prevented by a flange or a nut being fixedly-fitted in the shaft-holding stands222,223.

(Detection Unit230)

The detection unit230includes a holding unit231, detection targets232a,232b, and a sensor233.

The holding unit231is provided on the rotation shaft224. The holding unit231and the rotation shaft224rotate integrally with each other.

As illustrated inFIG.5, the holding unit231includes holding holes231a,231b. The holding unit231houses the detection targets232a,232b. The holding unit231has a cylindrical shape.

The holding holes231a,231beach are provided in each of the side surfaces of the holding unit231. The holding holes21aand231bare provided from the side surfaces of the holding unit231toward a center portion of the holding unit231. The holding holes231a,231bare shifted from each other by 180° in the circumferential direction of the holding unit231. More specifically, the two holding holes231a,231bare positioned opposite each other with the rotation shaft224interposed therebetween.

The detection targets232a,232bare disposed in the holding holes231a,231b, respectively. The detection targets232a,232bare magnets, for example. Herein, the detection targets232a,232bare neodymium magnets.

The sensor233is fitted at a position on the board221that corresponds to the holding unit231. The sensor233detects the magnetic fields of the detection targets232a,232b. A signal (current or voltage) corresponding to the magnetic field strength detected by the sensor233flows between the sensor233and the control board130or is applied therebetween.

Herein, “flows between the sensor233and the control board130or is applied therebetween” is used to mean “the detection unit230outputs a signal to the control board130.” The control board130controls light emission of the xenon tube212based on the output of the signal.

The sensor233includes a Hall element, for example. The control board130detects a voltage generated in the Hall element.

The sensor233may include an electronic circuit, and convert a current or a voltage into a digital signal and output the digital signal to the control board130. The sensor233can compare the value of a current or a voltage with a predetermined threshold. The sensor233may output a digital signal indicating that the detection targets232a,232bare detected to the control board130as a result of the comparison. For example, when a value of the current or the voltage of the sensor233is equal to or greater than a threshold, a signal indicating “1: Detection of detection target” is output. When a value of the current or the voltage of the sensor233is smaller than the threshold, a signal indicating “0: Non-detection of detection target” is output.

In the main roller220configured as described above, the rotation shaft224and the holding unit231rotate under rotation of the left roller226-1or the right roller226-2. Although the rotation shafts of the left roller226-1and the right roller226-2are common in this example, the rotation shafts may be separately provided in each of the left roller226-1and the right roller226-2. More specifically, the left roller226-1and the right roller226-2may be configured to be independently rotatable. In this case, with respect to the light emission control corresponding to the number of rotations, described later, the sensor may be provided only in one of the rotation shafts or may be provided in both of the rotation shafts. In the latter case, statistical processing (calculation of an average value or the like) of the selection of either of the rotations is performed for the two measured numbers of rotations, and then a signal indicating the number of rotations of the main roller220can be output.

When the holding unit231rotates, the detection target232aapproaches the sensor233. The sensor233detects the magnetic field of the detection target232a. Further, when the holding unit231rotates (herein, 180° rotation), the detection target232bapproaches the sensor233at this time. The sensor233detects the magnetic field of the detection target232bat this time.

In response to the rotation of the holding unit231, the sensor233repeatedly outputs a signal detecting the detection target232aand a signal detecting the detection target232b, in that order, to the control board130. Upon the signal input into the control board130, the xenon tube212emits light.

(Relationship Between Holding Unit231and Opening210b)

Next, the relationship between the holding unit231and the opening210bof the device body10is described with reference toFIG.6.FIG.6shows a cross section of the holding unit231and illustrates the opening210bfrom the front.

The alternate long and short dash lines in the figure are virtual lines illustrating that the opening210b, the sensor233, and the holding unit231illustrated by the solid lines correspond to each other, and the opening210b, the sensor233, and the holding unit231illustrated by the dashed lines correspond to each other.

The opening210bhas a dimension of longitudinal width v [m]×lateral width h [m]. The longitudinal width v [m] is the length of the short side of the opening210b. The lateral width h [m] is the length of the long side of the opening210b.

The cross section of the holding unit231has a circular shape with a length c [m] of the circumference (not illustrated).

Herein, the relationship between the length of the circumference of the holding unit231and the longitudinal width of the opening210bis represented by Expression 1 below.
v=c/a(1)v: Longitudinal width of opening210bc: Length of circumference of holding unit231a: Variable

One of the longitudinal width v and the length c of the circumference may have an error of several [m] relative to the other side. The variable a is a number greater than 0. Herein, the variable a is 2, which corresponds to the number of the detection targets.

“c/2” defines the length of the semicircle of the holding unit231. More specifically, “c/2” defines that the length of the semicircle of the holding unit231is substantially equal to the longitudinal width v. When the holding unit231rotates in correspondence to the length of the semicircle, the light irradiation beauty device1is moved in correspondence to the longitudinal width v [m] of the opening210bon the skin surface of a user.

Next, a number of detection targets and a rotation angle θ1of the holding unit231required for light emission of the xenon tube212in this embodiment are described.

The number of detection targets and the rotation angle θ1of the holding unit231required for the light emission of the xenon tube212are represented by Expression 2 below.
θ1=360/a(2)θ1: Rotation angle required for first light emission to second light emission of xenon tube212a: Number of detection targets

Herein, the number of detection targets is 2 (detection targets232a,232b). Therefore, the rotation angle required for the first light emission to the second light emission is 180°.

When the holding unit231rotates in correspondence to the rotation angle θ1, the light irradiation beauty device1is moved in correspondence to the longitudinal width v [m] of the opening210bon the skin surface of a user.

(Control Board130)

Next, a function of the control board130is described with reference toFIG.7.FIG.7is a functional block diagram of the control board130.

As illustrated inFIG.7, the control board130has a memory131, a detection control unit132, a fan control unit133, a voltage conversion unit134, an image processing unit136(equivalent to the imaging unit240), and a light emission control unit135. Functions thereof are realized by circuit elements (for example, IC chips for calculation and memory, a resistive element(s), a capacitor(s), and a coil element(s)). The control board130may also include a charge circuit for a secondary battery.

In the memory131there are pre-stored firmware, various thresholds, a conversion table, and the like.

The detection control unit132is connected to the operation unit112illustrated inFIG.1, the touch sensor unit210dillustrated inFIG.2, and the detection unit230illustrated inFIG.5. The detection control unit132detects an operation of the operation unit112made by a user. An analog or digital signal output from the touch sensor unit210dor the detection unit230is input to the detection control unit132.

The detection control unit132can also detect a voltage generated in a Hall element when the detection unit230includes the Hall element.

The detection control unit132can compare with the threshold stored in the memory131a voltage level or a current input from the detection unit230or the touch sensor unit210d. When the current (or voltage) input from the touch sensor unit210dis larger than the threshold, for example, the detection control unit132sets a “flag indicating that the skin surface of a user is in contact with the circumference of the opening210b” (for example, a digital signal “1” is held in the memory).

When the current (or voltage) input from the detection unit230is larger than the threshold, for example, the detection control unit132sets a “flag causing the xenon tube212to emit light” (for example, a digital signal “1” is held in the memory). When the current (or voltage) is smaller than the threshold, a “flag causing the xenon tube212not to emit light” is set (for example, a digital signal “0” is held in the memory).

The flag may be set based on the digital signal (for example, the signal indicating “1: Detection of detection target” or “0: Non-detection of detection target”) input from the detection unit230or the touch sensor unit210d.

The fan control unit133is connected to the cooling fan114illustrated inFIG.1. The fan control unit133turns ON/OFF driving of the cooling fan114.

The voltage conversion unit134converts power obtained from a commercial power source or a secondary battery. The conversion unit coverts an alternating current to a direct current or boosts or drops a voltage, for example. The power converted by the voltage conversion unit134is used for light emission of the xenon tube212or the like.

The light emission control unit135controls the memory131, the detection control unit132, the fan control unit133, and the voltage conversion unit134.

The light emission control unit135includes a capacitor for temporarily storing electricity supplied to the xenon tube212or a charge circuit for the capacitor.

The light emission control unit135supplies the electricity stored in the capacitor to the xenon tube212. As a result, the xenon tube212emits light.

(Light Emission Control Example 1)

The light emission control unit135causes the xenon tube212to emit light when all of the following conditions (1) to (3) are satisfied.(1) The “flag indicating that the skin surface of a user is in contact with the circumference of the opening210b” is set.(2) The “flag causing the xenon tube212to emit light” is set.(3) Electricity required for causing the xenon tube212to emit light is stored in the capacitor.
(Light Emission Control Example 2)

The light emission control unit135also causes the xenon tube212to emit light when the following conditions (1) and (2) are satisfied.(1) The detection control unit132detects an operation of the operation unit112by a user (for example, an operation of depressing a light emitting button).(2) Electricity required for causing the xenon tube212to emit light is stored in the capacitor.

The light irradiation beauty device1can reduce inconvenience of operation for depilation treatment.

Herein, an example of an operation in the depilation treatment of a conventional product (hereinafter simply referred to as “device”) is described. The device includes a flash lamp and an irradiation port for irradiating a skin surface with light from the flash lamp. Such a device can perform depilation treatment by 1) irradiating a skin surface to be subjected to the depilation treatment with the flash lamp light; 2) raising the device and temporarily removing the device from the skin surface; 3) causing the device to abut another skin surface to be subjected to the depilation treatment; and 4) irradiating the newly abutted skin surface with the light from the flash lamp.

In this case, the device is repeatedly raised positioned to abut a skin surface to be subjected to the depilation treatment in accordance with a number of skin surfaces be subjected to the depilation treatment.

Repeated raising and positing of the device to abut a skin surface to be subjected to the depilation treatment involves movement by a user within three dimensions, namely, a length, width and depth. Such movement may cause the device to abut a skin surface that is not the intended skin surface; and the user's hand and arm moving the device may become fatigued.

This depilation treatment method requires that a position of the irradiation port be determined for each skin surface to be subjected to the depilation treatment. However, such positioning may be time consuming if the user causes the device to abut a skin surface that is not the intended skin surface, and/or the user's hand and arm become fatigued

Since the light irradiation beauty device1includes the main roller220, the light irradiation beauty device can be smoothly moved in one dimension on and along a skin surface. Thus, the light irradiation beauty device1is prevented from abutting an unintended skin surface; and/or the user's arm used for moving the light irradiation beauty device1does not become fatigued As a result, the position of the opening210bresulting from the abutment operation can be promptly determined.

In the light irradiation beauty device1, the detection unit230rotates in synchronization with the rotation of the main roller220, and the xenon tube212emits light whenever the light irradiation beauty device1moves in correspondence to the longitudinal width v [m] of the opening210b. As a result, depilation targets can be continuously irradiated with light from the xenon tube212for each longitudinal width of the opening210b.

As a result, unevenness in irradiation can be reduced, and a necessity for the user to depress a trigger button of the xenon tube212for each skin surface to be subjected to the depilation treatment can be eliminated. Further, a user need not consciously position the opening210bfor each skin surface to be subjected to the depilation treatment.

One meaning of irradiation unevenness is “a range of skin irradiated with light by the first light emission by the xenon tube212and a range of the skin surface separately irradiated with light by the second light emission by the xenon tube212, whereby a range not irradiated with light exists.” Since a depilation effect is not obtained in the range not irradiated with light, the range needs to be subject to irradiation with the light of the xenon tube212.

Another meaning of the irradiation unevenness is “a range on the skin irradiated with light by the first light emission by the xenon tube212and a range on the skin surface irradiated with light by the second light emission by the xenon tube212overlap each other, whereby a skin surface exists that is irradiated with a greater amount of light from the xenon tube212than required as compared with other depilation target areas.”

(Modification 1)

The light irradiation beauty device1of the first embodiment is described above. The light irradiation beauty device1can be variously modified.

The detection targets232a,232band the sensor233may be replaced. More specifically, the holding unit231includes two sensors corresponding to the detection targets232a,232b, and the board221includes one detection target corresponding to the sensor233.

The detection targets232a,232bmay be light emitting elements (for example, LEDs). The sensor233may be a light receiving element (for example, a photodiode).

The light irradiation beauty device1may include either one of the detection targets232a,232b. Further, the length of the circumference of the holding unit231may be less than the longitudinal width of the opening210b. For example, the length of the circumference of the holding unit231may be half the length of the longitudinal width of the opening210b. In this case, the light emission control unit135causes the xenon tube212to emit light whenever the holding unit231rotates twice.

The detection unit230may be a mechanical contact sensor.

The auxiliary roller290may include an electrode for applying a current to the skin surface of a user. By applying a current to the skin surface of a user, muscles can be caused to be moved. As a result, an effect of removing waste or imparting “gloss” or “firmness” to skin can be expected.

The shape of the opening210bmay be changed (for example, to be a rectangular shape, a triangular shape, a trapezoid shape, a spherical shape, an oval shape, a star shape, and so forth).

The light irradiation beauty device1may include an acceleration sensor. The acceleration sensor detects movement of the light irradiation beauty device1. The light emission control unit135causes the xenon tube212to emit light when the acceleration sensor detects such movement, namely, that “the light irradiation beauty device1is moved” and prevents the xenon tube212from emitting light when the light irradiation beauty device1is not moved (enhanced safety).

The device body10and the light irradiation unit20may be formed integral with each other.

The light irradiation unit20may include a halogen lamp or an LED lamp.

A temperature sensor may be arranged in the vicinity of the xenon tube212. The temperature sensor is a thermistor, for example. The light emission control unit135causes the xenon tube212to emit light corresponding to a temperature of the temperature sensor. As a result, a failure of the xenon tube212due to occurrence of high temperature can be prevented.

An attachment with a filter covering the opening210bof the light irradiation unit20may be attached to the chassis210. The attachment may be attached to the chassis210by use of a magnet, for example. The filter is any of band pass filter, low pass filter, or high pass filter. Light of a specific wavelength can be generated and directed to the skin surface of a user. Under exposure to light of specific wavelengths, enhanced beatification of skin can be expected.

The chassis210and the above-described attachment may include a Peltier device. The Peltier device imparts a hot or cold sensation to a user's skin. The Peltier device can lower a temperature of skin warmed by the light of the xenon tube212.

The device body10, the auxiliary roller290, or the above-described attachment may include an electrode. The electrode is used for ion introduction or ion lead-out, for example.

Ion introduction refers to a beauty method directed to penetration of vitamin C derivatives or placenta into skin layers by use of a weak current.

Ion lead-out refers to a beauty method directed to removal of dirt (for example, old keratin) from skin by applying a weak current in an opposite direction to the ion introduction direction.

For example, the electrode of the device body10is an anode and the electrode of the chassis210is a cathode. When a user holds the electrode of the device body10and applies the electrode of the chassis210to the skin surface, a weak current can be applied to the user's body.

Second Embodiment

Next, a light irradiation beauty device2of a second embodiment of the present invention is described with reference toFIG.8.FIG.8is a schematic view of a detection unit330(signal output means) included in the light irradiation beauty device2of the second embodiment.

InFIG.8, the same constituent components as those in the first embodiment illustrated inFIG.5are designated by the same reference numerals and descriptions thereof are omitted.

The detection unit330corresponds to the detection unit230of the first embodiment. The detection unit330includes detection targets232a,232band sensors333a,333b.

The detection targets232a,232bare shifted by 180° from each other in the circumferential direction of the holding unit231, and are shifted from each other along the major axis direction (direction in which the rotation shaft224extends) of the holding unit231.

The sensors333a,333bcorrespond to sensors233a,233b. The sensor333is fixed to a position on the board221corresponding to the detection target232a. The sensor333adetects a magnetic field of the detection target232a.

The sensor333bis fixed to a position on the board221corresponding to the detection target232b. The sensor333bdetects a magnetic field of the detection target232b.

In the light irradiation beauty device2, the light emission control unit135(seeFIG.7) can individually identify the sensors333a,333b. The light emission control unit135causes the xenon tube212to emit light based on signals output from the sensors333a,333b.

When the light emission control unit135causes the xenon tube212to emit light based on the signal output from the sensor333a, the light emission control unit135prevents the xenon tube212from emitting light unless a signal is subsequently output from the sensor333b.

More specifically, when signals are successively output from the same sensor (for example, sensor333a), the light emission control unit135of this embodiment prevents the xenon tube212from emitting light even when a signal after the second signal is input.

In some cases, the light irradiation beauty device2is operated to reciprocate on the skin surface. For example, the xenon tube212emits light once based on a signal output from the sensor333ain the forward path.

Thereafter, the light irradiation beauty device2is immediately moved in an opposite direction (backward path direction).

In the backward path, the sensor333adetects the detection target232a, and therefore the sensor333acontinuously outputs signals of the detections in the forward path and the backward path. When the xenon tube212emits light based on the signal in the backward path, a skin surface irradiated with the light in the forward path is irradiated with the light of the xenon tube212again in a short period of time.

Since the depilation treatment has already been performed in the forward path, even when the light of the xenon tube212is emitted again in the backward path, the depilation effect is low in some cases. Power used for the light emission of the xenon tube212becomes useless in some cases.

The light irradiation beauty device2can reduce energy wastage.

It is desirable that control of the xenon tube212by the light emission control unit135in the light irradiation beauty device2can be cancelled at any time by the operation of the operation unit112by a user.

Although some embodiments of the present invention are described above, the embodiments and the modification are examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. The novel embodiments can be implemented in various other forms and can be variously omitted, replaced, and altered without deviating from the gist of the invention. The embodiments and the modification thereof are included in the scope and the gist of the invention and are included in the invention described in the claims and any equivalent scope thereof.

Third Embodiment

Next, a light irradiation beauty device3of a third embodiment of the present invention is described with reference toFIG.9toFIG.11.FIG.9is a plan view in which the light irradiation beauty device3is viewed with an operation unit312at the front.FIG.10is a partial cross-sectional view of the light irradiation beauty device3illustrating an A-A cross section ofFIG.9.FIG.11illustrates an A-A cross section ofFIG.1and is a schematic view illustrating the light irradiation beauty device3after change of an angle. The dashed line ofFIG.11illustrates a user's hand.

Hereinafter, the same constituent components as the constituent components of the first and second embodiments illustrated inFIG.1toFIG.8and each modification are designated by the same reference numerals and descriptions thereof are omitted.

As illustrated inFIG.9, the light irradiation beauty device3includes a light irradiation unit20a, a device body30(support unit), and a hinge31.

(Light Irradiation Unit20a)

The light irradiation unit20ais a modification of the light irradiation unit20illustrated inFIG.3. As illustrated inFIG.10, the arrangement of the vents210eincluded in the light irradiation unit20is changed. Other configurations and functions of the light irradiation unit20aare the same as those of the light irradiation unit20.

(Device Body30)

The device body30includes a first chassis unit310(first body unit) and a second chassis unit320(second body unit). The device body30corresponds to the device body10illustrated inFIG.1.

(First Chassis Unit310)

The first chassis unit310includes a tip end portion310aand a rear end portion310b. In the first chassis unit310, an operation unit312, a cooling fan314, and a control board315are disposed.

The tip end portion310acorresponds to the tip end portion10aillustrated inFIG.1. To the tip end portion310a, the light irradiation unit20ais detachably attached (connected). Although not shown, a holding mechanism for holding the light irradiation unit20aand a contact terminal electrically connected to the light irradiation unit20aare provided in the tip end portion310a.

The rear end portion310bincludes a facing surface310c. In the rear end portion310b, a hinge connection unit310dand vents310eare provided. The rear end portion310bis located in a boundary unit with the second chassis unit320.

The facing surface310cfaces the second chassis unit320. The facing surface310cis an inclined surface and is inclined toward a skin contact surface of the light irradiation unit20aat a predetermined angle (for example, 10° or larger). The facing surface310cis farthest from the skin contact surface in an area proximate to the operation unit312and approaches the skin contact surface as the facing surface310cis inclined toward the cooling fan314.

The hinge connection unit310dprojects from the facing surface310ctoward the second chassis unit320. The hinge connection unit310dis inserted into the second chassis unit320. To the hinge connection unit310d, a part of the hinge31is attached.

The vents310ecorrespond to the vents10dillustrated inFIG.1. The vents310eare through-holes extending from the facing surface310ctoward the inside of the first chassis unit310. Through the vents310e, wind (see “Air” inFIG.10) for cooling the xenon tube212included in the light irradiation unit20apasses.

Each vent310emay be provided as an inlet hole or may be provided as an exhaust hole so long as it is configured to allow the passage of the wind.

Between the vents310eand the second chassis unit320, a small clearance is provided (see the reference numeral “c” inFIG.1). This prevents the vents310efrom being closed by the second chassis unit320.

The operation unit312, the cooling fan314, and the control board315are attached to the first chassis unit310by screws, adhesion, holding units, and the like, which are not shown. The “holding units” are columns310fand a pedestal310g, for example, provided in the first chassis unit310.

The operation unit312corresponds to the operation unit112illustrated inFIG.1. Herein, the operation unit312is a switch for turning ON or OFF a main power source. The operation unit312is provided in a side surface unit (part connecting the tip end portion310aand the rear end portion310b) of the first chassis unit310.

The cooling fan314corresponds to the cooling fan114illustrated inFIG.1. The cooling fan314generates the wind for cooling the xenon tube212.

The control board315corresponds to the control board130illustrated inFIG.1. The control board315controls the driving of the cooling fan314and the light emission of the xenon tube212or detects an operation of the operation unit312by a user.

(Second Chassis Unit320)

The second chassis unit320includes a tip end portion320a, a rear end portion320b, and a side surface unit320c(holding). In the second chassis unit320, an operation switch322, a capacitor323, and a sensor unit324are disposed. The second chassis unit320can also include vents corresponding to the vents310eof the first chassis unit310.

The second chassis unit320is attached to the first chassis unit310through the hinge31and rotates relative to the first chassis unit310. In other words, the first chassis unit310and the second chassis unit320are openably connected to each other by the hinge31.

It is desirable that the length from the tip end portion320ato the rear end portion320bof the second chassis unit320and the length from the tip end portion310ato the rear end portion310bof the first chassis unit310are substantially equal to each other.

The tip end portion320aincludes a facing surface320d. In the tip end portion320a, a hinge housing unit320e, a hinge connection unit320f, a switch housing unit320g, and a through-hole320hare provided. The tip end portion320ais located in a boundary unit with the first chassis unit310.

The facing surface320dfaces the facing surface310cof the first chassis unit310. The facing surface320dis an inclined surface and is inclined toward the skin contact surface at a predetermined angle (for example, 10° or larger).

The hinge housing unit320eis a space housing the hinge31. In the hinge housing unit320e, the hinge connection unit310dof the first chassis unit310is arranged.

The hinge connection unit320fis provided such that the surface is exposed to the hinge housing unit320e. The hinge connection unit320fis a columnar member provided in the hinge housing unit320eor a wall surface surrounding the hinge housing unit320e. To the hinge connection unit320f, a part of the hinge31is attached.

The switch housing unit320gis a space housing the operation switch322. The switch housing unit320gis provided in the facing surface320d.

The through-hole320hcommunicates with the hinge housing unit320efrom the facing surface320d. The hinge connection unit310dof the first chassis unit310is inserted into the hinge housing unit320ethrough the through-hole320h.

The rear end portion320bcorresponds to the rear end portion10billustrated inFIG.1. In the rear end portion320b, the terminal unit110is disposed.

The operation switch322and the capacitor323are attached to the second chassis unit320by screws, adhesives, holding units, and the like, which are not shown. The “holding units” are columns320kand a pedestal320m, for example, provided in the second chassis unit320.

The operation switch322and the capacitor323are electrically connected to the terminal unit11, the control board315of the first chassis unit310, or the xenon tube212of the light irradiation unit20aby wiring, which is not shown.

Wiring from the second chassis unit320toward the first chassis unit310is disposed to pass-through—the vicinity of the hinge31, for example, so as not to be disconnected by relative rotation of the first chassis unit310and the second chassis unit320. Such wiring is commonly used in a notebook personal computer or the like.

The operation switch322is provided in the switch housing unit320g. The operation switch322is electrically connected to the control board315. In the operation switch322, a state where the operation switch322is housed in the device body30(seeFIG.10) or a state where the operation switch322is exposed on the outside of the device body30(seeFIG.11) is switched by the relative rotation of the first chassis unit310and the second chassis unit320.

As illustrated inFIG.11, a user can depress the operation switch322when it is exposed on the outside of the device body30with the thumb, for example (see reference numeral F ofFIG.11). When the operation switch322is depressed, the xenon tube212emits light.

The operation switch322is arranged to be horizontal at least to the facing surface320din the vicinity of the operation switch322. Since the facing surface320dis inclined toward the skin contact surface as described above, the operation switch322is also inclined toward the skin contact surface at a fixed angle as a whole.

The capacitor323stores power required for the light emission of the xenon tube212.

The hinge31includes a base unit31a, a first connection portion31b, and a second connection portion31c.

The first connection portion31band the second connection portion31care provided in the base unit31ato be rotatable relative to each other with a center axis P of the base unit31aas the rotation axis.

As the hinge31, a hinge that stably stops at an arbitrary angle can be used. A hinge having such a function is referred to as a torque hinge or a free stop hinge, for example.

The first connection portion31bis attached to the hinge connection unit310dof the first chassis unit310. The second connection portion31cis attached to the hinge connection unit320fof the second chassis unit320.

When the first connection portion31band the second connection portion31crotate relative to each other by 90°, for example, the first chassis unit310and the second chassis unit320also rotate relative to each other by 90° corresponding thereto.

FIG.10illustrates a state where the first connection portion31band the second connection portion31care closest to each other. In this state, the opening angle (relative angle in the rotation direction) of the second connection portion31cto the first connection portion31bis 0°.

When a user applies force to the first chassis unit310and the second chassis unit320such that the opening angle of the second connection portion31cto the first connection portion31bincreases, the first chassis unit310and the second chassis unit320rotate relative to each other with the center axis P as the rotation axis, as illustrated inFIG.11.

When the user releases the force, the rotation of the first connection portion31band the second connection portion31c(first chassis unit310and second chassis unit320) stops. The hinge31holds the opening angle between the first connection portion31band the second connection portion31c(first chassis unit310and second chassis unit320) at the time when the user releases the force until the user applies force to the first chassis unit310and the second chassis unit320subsequently.

The first connection portion31band the second connection portion31cmay rotate in a direction indicated by an arrow Ar ofFIG.9.

When the light irradiation beauty device3is pushed or pulled on the skin surface or pressed against the skin surface, it is desirable that the hinge31has such hardness in a rotation direction (rotational resistance strength) that the first connection portion31band the second connection portion31cdo not rotate relative to each other.

The light irradiation beauty device3may include a lock mechanism of detecting that the light irradiation beauty device3is pushed or pulled on the skin surface or pressed against the skin surface by a sensor to prevent the rotation of the hinge31. As the lock mechanism, a mechanism of blocking the rotation of the hinge31by an electromagnetic valve using a solenoid is considered, for example.

The sensor unit324is a position sensor that detects the opening angle between the first connection portion31band the second connection portion31c.

The sensor unit324outputs a detection result (for example, a digital signal indicating a value of the angle or analog signal generated by a current or a voltage) to the control board315.

The sensor unit324has a rotary encoder, for example. The rotary encoder is attached to the hinge31and detects the rotation angle of the second connection portion31cbased on the first connection portion31b.

The sensor unit324may have an illuminance sensor. The illuminance sensor measures the illuminance in the hinge housing unit320e, for example. The measured illuminance is converted into the opening angle between the first chassis unit310and the second chassis unit320.

The sensor unit324may detect not the opening angle between the first connection portion31band the second connection portion31c, but the opening angle between the first chassis unit310and the second chassis unit320. As the sensor unit324, a Hall sensor may be provided.

(Control Board315)

Next, a function of the control board315is described usingFIG.12.FIG.12is a functional block diagram of the control board315. The control board315corresponds to the control board130illustrated inFIG.1.

The control board315has the memory131, the detection control unit132, the fan control unit133, the voltage conversion unit134, the image processing unit136, and a light emission control unit316(light emission pattern switching unit).

These functions are realized by a control circuit formed by circuit elements (for example, IC chips for calculation and memory, resistive element, capacitor, and coil element).

The light emission control unit316corresponds to the light emission control unit135. The light emission control unit316calculates the opening angle between the first connection portion31band the second connection portion31c(or between the first chassis unit310and the second chassis unit320) based on a calculation result output from the sensor unit324.

An example of the calculation is conversion of a detection result (for example, current value, voltage value, or illuminance value) output from the sensor unit324into an angle with reference to a conversion table stored in the memory131. When the detection result is a digital signal indicating an angle value, the conversion step can be omitted.

The light emission control unit316switches light emission patterns of the xenon tube212corresponding to the opening angle.

Further, the light emission control unit316may control the light emission based on skin feature information generated in the image processing unit136. Specifically, in light of the fact that the absorption amount of absorbed and irradiated light increases as the skin color is deeper, at least one of the intensity of irradiation light, emission angle (size of a skin region to be irradiated), emission timing, and wavelength is adjusted such that the absorption amount is a predetermined value even when the color tone varies for each user or each skin surface. The adjustment is preferably carried out for each light emission timing.

<Light Emission Pattern Example>

(1) First Light Emission Pattern (Opening Angle: 0°)

When the opening angle between the first connection portion31band the second connection portion31cis 0° as illustrated inFIG.10, the light emission control unit316causes the xenon tube212to emit light such that the light emission pattern is the same as that of the first or second embodiment or each modification. More specifically, the light emission control unit316causes the xenon tube212to emit light corresponding to the rotation of the main roller220.

(2) Second Light Emission Pattern (Opening Angle: 45° or Larger)

When the opening angle between the first connection portion31band the second connection portion31cis 45° or larger as illustrated inFIG.11, the light emission control unit316causes the xenon tube212to emit light only when the operation switch322is depressed without causing the xenon tube212to emit light corresponding to the rotation of the main roller220. In this case, when the operation switch322is depressed once, the xenon tube212emits light once.

(3) Third Light Emission Pattern (Opening Angle: Larger than 0° and Smaller than) 45°

When the opening angle between the first connection portion31band the second connection portion31cis larger than 0° and smaller than 45°, the light emission control unit316causes the xenon tube212to emit light continuously when the operation switch322is depressed without causing the xenon tube212to emit light corresponding to the rotation of the main roller220. In this case, when the operation switch322is depressed once, the xenon tube212emits light a plurality of times.

(4) Modification of Light Emission Control

The opening angle serving as the condition that the xenon tube212is caused to emit light in the first light emission pattern is not limited to 0°. A configuration may be acceptable in which, when the opening angle is 0° or larger and 15° or smaller, for example, the xenon tube212is caused to emit light in the first light emission pattern.

Patterns corresponding to the opening angles may be classified in more detail. The patterns classified in more detail can be differentiated by varying the interval from light emission to the next light emission, the number of times of light emission, or the light emission intensity of the xenon tube212.

When the light emission intensity of the xenon tube212is varied, the xenon tube212is controlled so that the light emission intensity in a case of the first pattern is lower than that in the other light emission patterns, the light emission intensity in a case of the second light emission pattern is the highest among the light emission patterns, and the light emission intensity in a case of the third light emission pattern is intermediate intensity, for example.

Further, during the period while the operation switch322is depressed, the xenon tube212continuously emits light (continuously repeats blinking). When the operation switch322is not depressed, the light emission of the xenon tube212may be stopped.

Further, the xenon tube212may be caused to emit light corresponding to the rotation of the main roller220during the period while the operation switch322is depressed.

In any of the patterns described above, it is desirable that, when the skin surface of a user does not contact the circumference of the opening210bof the light irradiation unit20a, the xenon tube212is not caused to emit light.

The light irradiation beauty device3configured as described above can reduce inconveniences of the operation in the depilation treatment.

The light irradiation beauty device3in the aspect in which the opening angle between the first connection portion31band the second connection portion31cis 0° as illustrated inFIG.10can obtain the same effects as those of the first and second embodiments and each modification.

The light irradiation beauty device3can adjust the opening angle between the first chassis unit310and the second chassis unit320to an angle at which a user most easily holds the light irradiation beauty device3according to a skin surface to be subject to the depilation treatment by the hinge31(improvement of operability in depilation treatment).

In order to effectively irradiate the skin surface of a depilation treatment target with the light of the xenon tube212, it is desirable that the opening210bof the light irradiation unit20aabuts on the skin surface in a horizontal state to the extent possible to the skin surface.

When abutting the skin surface as described above, the angle formed by the first chassis unit310and the skin surface is necessarily a substantially right angle.

It is easy to set the angle formed by the first chassis unit310and the skin surface to a right angle by moving up or down or extending or contracting a shoulder or an elbow or rotating a wrist. However, a human body has a large number of curved surfaces and the distance from a shoulder to the skin surface to be depilated also varies, and therefore a burden is imposed on a shoulder, an elbow, or a wrist depending on a skin surface, the hair of which a user may wish to remove.

Therefore, depending on a skin surface, the hair of which a user may wish to remove, a burden on an elbow or a wrist is reduced when the first chassis unit310and the second chassis unit320are linearly arranged (the opening angle between the first chassis unit310and the second chassis unit320is about 180°) as illustrated inFIG.10, or a burden on a shoulder and an elbow or a wrist are reduced when the first chassis unit310and the second chassis unit320rotate relative to each other as illustrated inFIG.2in some cases.

For example, in the depilation of a skin surface where there is a long flat continuous surface as compared with other skin surfaces of a body and which is distant from a shoulder of a hand holding the light irradiation beauty device, such as a leg or an arm, a burden on a shoulder, an elbow, or a wrist are reduced when the first chassis unit310and the second chassis unit320are linearly arranged, and operability of the light irradiation beauty device3generally is enhanced.

In the depilation of a skin surface that has a narrow area and that is close to a shoulder holding the light irradiation beauty device3as compared with a leg, an arm, and the like, such as an armpit or a face, a burden on a shoulder, an elbow, or a wrist are reduced when the second chassis unit320rotates to the first chassis unit310and the operability of the light irradiation beauty device3is good in many cases.

Further, also in the depilation of a part in a dead angle for a user, such as a back or a neck, burdens to a shoulder, an elbow, or a wrist are reduced when the second chassis unit320rotates to the first chassis unit310and the operability of the light irradiation beauty device3is good in many cases.

The light irradiation beauty device3can change the angle of the second chassis unit320to the first chassis unit310corresponding to the position of the skin surface to be depilated, and therefore can perform the depilation treatment of various body parts in a good operative state.

According to the light irradiation beauty device3, when the first chassis unit310and the second chassis unit320rotate relative to each other, the operation switch322is exposed as illustrated inFIG.11. Since the operation switch322is arranged in the second chassis unit320and is located near a user's finger, the user can easily depress the operation switch322.

Further, the operation switch322is inclined to the skin contact surface at a predetermined angle as a whole. The inclination facilitates the touch of the operation switch322to a user's finger and the depression of the operation switch322.

The light irradiation beauty device3switches the light emission patterns of the xenon tube212corresponding to the direction and the angle of the second connection portion31cto the first connection portion31b, and therefore a user does not need to switch the light emission patterns by a button operation. As a result, the operability relating to the switching of the light emission patterns of the xenon tube212is improved.

According to the light irradiation beauty device3, the vents310eare provided in the rear end portion310bincluding the facing surface310cof the first chassis unit310. When the first chassis unit310and the second chassis unit320are linearly arranged as illustrated inFIG.10, the vents310eare covered by the tip end portion320aof the second chassis unit320such that a user's finger does not touch the vents310e.

Therefore, the airflow in the first chassis unit310is blocked by a user's finger, so that the cooling of the xenon tube212can be stably performed.

Between the vents310eand the second chassis unit320, a small clearance is provided. This prevents the vents310efrom being closed by the second chassis unit320.

The facing surface310cis inclined to be separated from a user's finger (for example, thumb F ofFIG.11) holding the second chassis unit320as illustrated inFIG.11. This can prevent the vents310efrom being closed by the user's finger.

As a result, the airflow in the first chassis unit310is blocked by the user's finger, so that the cooling of the xenon tube212can be stably performed.

(Modification 2)

The light irradiation beauty device3can be variously modified.

For example, a click hinge capable of stepwise changing the angle may be adopted as the hinge31. For example, the device body30and the light irradiation unit20amay be formed integral with each other. Body hair may be removed by a laser in place of the light emission of the xenon tube212. The light irradiation unit20amay have a Peltier device to warm or cool the skin surface. The main roller220may contain one or more rollers having any of a cylindrical shape, a polygonal columnar shape, or a spherical shape, for example.

A configuration may be acceptable in which the light irradiation unit20ahas an electrode and applies a current to the skin surface for the purpose of moving muscles to forcibly contract the muscles. The forcible contraction of muscles by a current is referred to as Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS).

The current is desirably an alternating current and the frequency is not particularly limited.

Further, the elements of the first to third embodiments and each modification can be combined as appropriate or some configurations thereof can also be omitted.

DESCRIPTION OF REFERENCE NUMERALS

1,2,3light irradiation beauty device10,30device body20,20alight irradiation unit31hinge110terminal unit112,312operation unit114,314cooling fan130,315control board131memory132detection control unit133fan control unit134voltage conversion unit135light emission control unit136image processing unit316light emission control unit210chassis212xenon tube214transparent glass220main roller221board222,223shaft holding stand224rotation shaft290auxiliary roller240imaging unit230detection unit231holding unit232a,232bdetection target233,333a,333bsensor310first chassis unit320second chassis unit322operation switch323capacitor324sensor unit330detection unit