CN118510424A

CN118510424A - AI-driven dispensing device for hair treatment

Info

Publication number: CN118510424A
Application number: CN202280087067.6A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 吉·李; 穆罕默德·坎吉
Original assignee: LOreal SA
Current assignee: LOreal SA
Priority date: 2021-12-30
Filing date: 2022-12-23
Publication date: 2024-08-16

Abstract

A system for dispensing hair care products, the system comprising: a dispensing device; at least one cartridge containing hair care material, the at least one cartridge configured to fit inside a dispensing device; and a dispensing container removably attached to the dispensing device, wherein the dispensing container is configured to receive a quantity of hair care material from the at least one cartridge.

Description

AI-driven dispensing device for hair treatment

Cross Reference to Related Applications

The present application claims priority and benefit from U.S. provisional application number 63/295243 filed on month 12 of 2021, U.S. provisional application number 63/310342 filed on month 15 of 2022, U.S. provisional application number 63/295313 filed on month 12 of 2021, french application number 2202878 filed on month 3 of 2022, and French application number 2202879 filed on month 3 of 2022, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Disclosure of Invention

This is a system for achieving hair care and personalized hair care formulations for use in the home based on a dedicated dispenser that allows the ingredients of the hair care product to be immediately mixed as a final result of user preferences and then conveniently transported for portability. In one embodiment, the dispensed formulation may be dispensed within a dispensing container, which may then be placed within a dispenser for use in a bathroom or shower.

This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify key features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

In one aspect, a system for dispensing hair care products is disclosed, the system comprising: a dispensing device; at least one cartridge containing hair care material, the at least one cartridge configured to fit inside a dispensing device; and a dispensing container removably attachable to the dispensing device, wherein the dispensing container is configured to receive a quantity of hair care material from the at least one cartridge.

Drawings

The foregoing aspects and many of the attendant advantages of this invention will become more readily appreciated as the same become better understood by reference to the following detailed description, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIGS. 1A-1D are overall perspective views of an example hair care dispensing device in accordance with the present technique;

FIG. 2 is an example cartridge in accordance with the present technique;

FIG. 3 is a top view of an example substrate of a dispenser device in accordance with the present technique;

FIG. 4 is an exploded view of an example dispensing container in accordance with the present technique;

fig. 5A-5C are top views of example dispensing containers in accordance with the present technique;

fig. 6A-6C are examples of hair care dispensing systems in accordance with the present technique;

FIG. 7A is an overall perspective view of an example dispenser in accordance with the present technology;

FIG. 7B is an interior view of an example dispenser in accordance with the present technique;

Fig. 8 is a diagram showing an example sequence of main processes of a hair care formulation method according to the present technology;

Fig. 9 is a process diagram illustrating an example of a process for selecting a hair care formulation in accordance with the present technique;

Fig. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a connected hair care dispensing system in accordance with the present technique;

fig. 11 is an example system for dispensing hair care formulations in accordance with the present technique;

fig. 12 is an exemplary system for dispensing hair dye in accordance with the present technique;

Fig. 13 is an exemplary system for dispensing hair formulation in accordance with the present technique;

Fig. 14 is an exemplary system for dispensing hair formulation in accordance with the present technique; and

Fig. 15 is an exemplary hair care regimen provided by a hair care dispensing system in accordance with the present technology.

Detailed Description

In the drawings, like reference numerals designate identical or corresponding parts throughout the several views. Further, as used herein, the terms "a," "an," and the like generally have the meaning of "one or more," unless otherwise indicated.

While illustrative embodiments have been shown and described, it will be appreciated that various changes can be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

The selection of hair care formulations is a common activity that typically relies on subjective decisions and manual inputs. There are numerous combinations and permutations of hair care materials available, and possible hair care formulations.

For each application of a hair care formulation, subjective decisions are typically made by the end user of the hair care product to provide a hair care formulation that meets their needs. The result is typically an experimental result, which may require multiple iterations to produce satisfactory results. The resulting hair care formulation may lack accuracy due in part to limited knowledge of the specific characteristics and necessary proportions of the base hair care material. Thus, reproducibility of the production of specific hair care formulations is difficult to achieve. The following examples address these problems in the conventional art.

In particular, the following description relates to a system for achieving personalization of hair care for use in the home based on a dedicated dispensing device and dispensing container that allow the ingredients of the hair care product to be mixed into the results of user preferences and then applied with the dispensing container itself or conveniently placed within the dispenser for use in the user's bathroom, shower or while out.

The system disclosed below is an AI-enabled motorized cartridge system that creates a personalized hair care formulation. In operation, a user may take or upload a picture of their hair using a smartphone camera and open an application on the smartphone. In some embodiments, the application uses AI to analyze the user's overall hair condition, damage, color, copper content, lice presence, humidity, texture, and/or dandruff presence. In some embodiments, the application also evaluates environmental conditions that may affect the user's hair state. Example conditions include, but are not limited to, UV index, air quality, pollen, weather, temperature, and humidity.

In some embodiments, the user may select a particular hair point of interest, such as moisture, curl, texture, UV protection, or color. In some embodiments, user selection may include a set of prompts to the user to answer in order to determine which products are best suited for the quiz of their particular needs. In some embodiments, the application may provide suggestions based solely on the data analyzed in the photograph. In some embodiments, a regimen of creating a hair care product is applied. In some embodiments, such hair care regimen may be a daily recommendation. In other embodiments, this regimen may be a weekly regimen of the recommended product.

In the case of regular use, the AI platform may evaluate the appearance of the user's hair over time, helping the user identify what is active and calibrate future formulations. AI-driven systems can optimize the efficacy of personalized formulations. By taking regular photographs, the user enables the intelligent system to recognize the effect of the formulation and adjust the dosage of the active ingredient accordingly. However, in some embodiments, if the user is looking for a particular product, they may ignore the system recommendation.

In the case of hair dyes and root hair conditioning agents, hair care formulations have the ability to incorporate real-time trend information as well as color matching techniques into their personalized product supply as described below. In some embodiments, users may create their own custom hair dye or hair care formulation based on their personal characteristics (such as skin tone and eye color) and preferences.

In some embodiments, the dispensing system is configured to hold three cartridges containing hair care material, but in other embodiments the number of cartridges may be greater or lesser. In some embodiments, the cartridge slides into the dispensing device. In some embodiments, the cartridge snaps into the dispensing device. In some embodiments, the cartridge may contain one or more active ingredients beneficial for hair care, such as zinc oxide, tea tree oil, and the like. In some embodiments, the cartridges are color coded or shaped in a particular manner to allow a user to better distinguish them from each other. In some embodiments, the cartridge is RFID or QR coded so that the dispensing device can determine what hair care material is inside the cartridge.

In some embodiments, the personalized mixture of the high performance hair care product is dispensed into the dispensing container in divided doses at the top of the device. In some embodiments, the dose is a single dose for a single application. In some embodiments, this is a sufficient dose for Zhou Tuma times, such as seven doses per week.

In some embodiments, the dispensing container contains one or more compartments for one or more hair care products. In some embodiments, the compartments are different from each other to allow a user to determine which product is which. Examples of such differences include, but are not limited to, the shape of the compartment, the color of the compartment, and the size or depth of the compartment.

In some embodiments, the dispensing container may be placed into a dispenser with an extruder. Examples of extruders include, but are not limited to, pumps, atomizing sprayers, manual sprayers, vacuum pumps, solenoid valves, and openings. In some embodiments, the dispenser has multiple extruders, allowing each compartment in the dispensing container to have a separate extruder so that the products do not mix. In some embodiments, the dispenser has an attachment (such as a magnet or suction cup) for attaching the dispenser to a surface (such as a shower or bathroom mirror).

In some embodiments, the dispensing container further comprises a cap. In some embodiments, the dispensing container is a flexible tube. In some embodiments, the dispensing container is a rectangular prism. In some embodiments, the dispensing container further comprises an opening. In some embodiments, the dispensing container further comprises a plurality of openings. In some embodiments, the plurality of openings are brush-like openings configured to brush through hair while extruding the hair care material.

In some embodiments, the dispensing container further comprises a lid. In some embodiments, the dispensing container further comprises a mirror disposed inside the lid.

In some embodiments, the dispensing container further comprises an applicator. In some embodiments, the dispensing container further comprises an applicator receptacle configured to hold an applicator. In some embodiments, the applicator is a brush. In some embodiments, the applicator is a bristle-bearing wand. In some embodiments, the dispensing container further comprises two or more compartments for containing hair care material. In some embodiments, the dispensing container is configured to receive a first quantity of a first hair care material from a first cartridge in the first compartment and a second quantity of a second hair care material different from the first hair care material from a second cartridge into the second compartment. In some embodiments, the two or more compartments are configured to receive hair care material from the two or more cartridges such that the two or more hair care materials are mixed in a single compartment. In some embodiments, two or more compartments are shaped differently from one another. In some embodiments, two or more compartments are different in color from each other.

In some embodiments, the system further comprises a dispenser, wherein the dispenser comprises a cavity configured to receive the dispensing container and an extruder configured to extrude the hair care material. In some embodiments, the dispenser is a bottle.

In another aspect, a system for dispensing a hair care formulation, the system comprising: one or more cartridges containing one or more hair care formulations; a communication device comprising processing circuitry, the processing circuitry is configured to: taking a photograph of the user's hair, uploading the photograph into an application on a communication device, performing an algorithm on the photograph to detect one or more hair characteristics, sensing one or more environmental conditions with one or more sensors, recommending a hair care treatment regimen for one or more hair care formulations based on the one or more hair characteristics and the one or more environmental conditions; and a dispensing device configured to dispense one or more hair care formulations from the one or more cartridges based on the hair care treatment regimen.

In some embodiments, the processing circuitry is further configured to set the user profile prior to taking a photograph of the user's hair. In some embodiments, setting the profile of the user includes answering a user questionnaire, wherein the user questionnaire gives the user a series of inputs, and wherein the series of inputs includes past hair treatments, desired hair quality, or hair points of interest. In some embodiments, the processing circuitry is further configured to diagnose one or more hair conditions using an AI algorithm. In some embodiments, recommending a hair care regimen further comprises creating the hair care regimen based on one or more other users having similar hair characteristics, environmental conditions, or a combination of both. In some embodiments, recommending a hair care regimen further comprises analyzing the one or more hair care formulations to ensure that there are no adverse interactions between the one or more hair care formulations. In some embodiments, recommending a hair care regimen further comprises analyzing one or more hair care formulations and one or more hair characteristics of the user to ensure that there are no adverse interactions between the one or more hair care formulations and the user's hair.

In some embodiments, the processing circuitry is further configured to accept user feedback of the user's favorite formulation to improve the AI algorithm. In some embodiments, the processing circuitry is further configured to adjust the recipe of the one or more hair care formulations based on the daily air quality determination. In some embodiments, the processing circuitry is further configured to adjust the recipe of the one or more hair care formulations based on the daily UV exposure determination.

In some embodiments, the processing circuitry is further configured to share the modulated recipe with other users in the same region having similar hair characteristics. In some embodiments, the hair treatment regimen is a daily hair treatment regimen. In some embodiments, the hair treatment regimen is a weekly hair treatment regimen. In some embodiments, one or more hair care formulations are dispensed separately from each other to prevent mixing.

In some embodiments, one or more hair care formulations are dispensed together to mix them. In some embodiments, the dispensing device dispenses a single dose of one or more hair care formulations. In some embodiments, the dispensing device dispenses two or more doses of one or more hair care formulations.

In another aspect, a method of providing hair care recommendations using the system described herein is disclosed, the method comprising: taking a photograph of the user's hair; uploading the photograph into an application on the communication device; performing an algorithm on the photograph to detect one or more hair characteristics; sensing one or more environmental conditions with one or more sensors; recommending a hair care treatment regimen for the one or more hair care formulations based on the one or more hair characteristics and the one or more environmental conditions; and dispensing one or more hair care formulations from the hair care product dispenser based on the hair care treatment regimen.

In some embodiments, the method further comprises setting a user profile. In some embodiments, setting the profile of the user includes answering a user questionnaire, wherein the user questionnaire gives the user a series of inputs, and wherein the series of inputs includes past hair treatments, desired hair quality, or hair points of interest. In some embodiments, the method further comprises diagnosing one or more hair conditions using an AI algorithm. In some embodiments, recommending a hair care regimen further comprises creating the hair care regimen based on the regimen of one or more other users having similar hair characteristics, environmental conditions, or a combination of both. In some embodiments, recommending a hair care regimen further comprises analyzing the one or more hair care formulations to ensure that there are no adverse interactions between the one or more hair care formulations themselves and the hair of the user. In some embodiments, the method further comprises accepting user feedback of the user's favorite formulation to improve the algorithm.

In some embodiments, the method further comprises adjusting the preparation of the one or more hair care formulations based on the daily air quality determination. In some embodiments, the method further comprises adjusting the preparation of the one or more hair care formulations based on the daily UV exposure determination. In some embodiments, the method further comprises sharing the adjusted recipe to other users having similar hair characteristics in the same area.

In yet another aspect, a system for dispensing hair dye is disclosed, the system comprising: one or more cartridges containing one or more hair dye; a communication device comprising processing circuitry, the processing circuitry is configured to: taking a photograph of the user's hair, uploading the photograph into an application on a communication device, performing an algorithm on the photograph to detect one or more hair characteristics, analyzing trends on one or more social media platforms, sensing one or more environmental conditions with one or more sensors, recommending hair dye based on the analyzed trends and the sensed one or more environmental conditions; and a dispensing device configured to dispense one or more hair colorants from the one or more cartridges based on the hair care treatment regimen.

In some embodiments, the processing circuitry is further configured to set a user profile. In some embodiments, setting the user profile includes answering a user questionnaire, wherein the user questionnaire gives the user a series of inputs, and wherein the series of inputs includes past hair treatments, hair length, hair texture, desired hair color, current hair color, and desired hair color persistence. In some embodiments, the processing circuitry is further configured to recommend one or more hair care formulations in addition to the hair dye to assist the user in dyeing the hair. In some embodiments, the processing circuitry is further configured to analyze the one or more hair care formulations and the one or more hair care features to ensure that there are no adverse interactions between the one or more hair care formulations, the hair dye, and the hair of the user. In some embodiments, the processing circuitry is further configured to accept user feedback of the user's favorite dispensed hair dye to improve the algorithm.

In some embodiments, the processing circuitry is further configured to share hair dye with other users in the same region. In some embodiments, the processing circuitry is further configured to allow the user to virtually dye the hair dye in real-time. In some embodiments, virtually coloring the hair dye further comprises adjusting the color presented.

In yet another aspect, a method of providing hair dye using the system described herein is disclosed, the method comprising: taking a photograph of the user's hair; uploading the photograph into an application on the communication device; analyzing trends on one or more social media platforms; sensing one or more environmental conditions with one or more sensors; recommending a hair dye based on the analyzed trend and the sensed one or more environmental conditions; and dispensing one or more hair colorants.

In some embodiments, the method further comprises setting a user profile. In some embodiments, setting the user profile includes answering a user questionnaire, wherein the user questionnaire gives the user a series of inputs, and wherein the series of inputs includes past hair treatments, hair length, hair texture, desired hair color, current hair color, and desired hair color persistence.

In some embodiments, the method further comprises recommending one or more hair care formulations in addition to the hair dye to assist the user in dyeing the hair.

In some embodiments, the recommendation of the hair care regimen further includes analyzing the one or more hair care formulations and the user profile to ensure that there are no adverse interactions between the one or more hair care formulations, the hair dye, and the user's hair.

In some embodiments, the method further comprises accepting user feedback of the user's favorite dispensed hair dye to improve the algorithm. In some embodiments, the method further comprises sharing the hair dye with other users in the same area.

In some embodiments, the method further comprises virtually coloring the hair dye in real time. In some embodiments, virtually coloring the hair dye further comprises adjusting the color presented. In some embodiments, the method further comprises storing the date the hair dye was dispensed such that a reminder is sent to the user to color the hair root, re-color the hair, or recommend one or more hair color special purpose products.

Fig. 1A-1D are overall perspective views of an example hair care dispensing device 100 in accordance with the present technology. The visible portion of the hair care product dispenser 100 includes a base 102. The base 102 provides support for the dispenser body 106. In some embodiments, the substrate 102 provides power to the device, such as with electrical wires (not shown in fig. 1A-1D). The dispensing container 108 is disposed above the dispenser body 106 and the power button may be partially disposed within the dispenser body 106 such that the dispenser body 106 ensures placement of the power button (not shown in fig. 1A-1D). Further, an indicator light and a button (not shown in fig. 1A-1D) may be partially disposed within the dispenser body 106 such that the dispenser body 106 ensures placement of the indicator light and button. The indicator lights and buttons may be mechanical or capacitive touch type buttons. The dispenser body 106 may provide a base for a dispensing container 108.

In some embodiments, such as in fig. 1A, the dispensing container 108 is a canister. In some embodiments, the dispensing container 108 has an opening 114 for accessing hair care formulation. In some embodiments, the dispensing container 108 has a cap 112. In some embodiments, cap 112 is a threaded cap. In some embodiments, a user may dispense a hair care formulation into the dispensing container 108 and secure the hair care formulation with the cap 112 so that the dispensing container 108 may be transported. In operation, a user may apply a hair care formulation with a finger, such as in the case of using hair care essence.

In some embodiments, such as in fig. 1B-1C, the dispensing container 108 is a flexible tube. In some embodiments, cap 112 may include opening 114. In some embodiments, the dispensing container includes a lid 113 to secure the dispensed hair care formulation. In some embodiments, the cap includes a plurality of openings 115, as shown in fig. 1C. In some embodiments, the opening 115 may be a brush-like opening that brushes through the user's hair. In operation, a user may dispense hair care material into the dispensing container 108 and squeeze the dispensing container 108 to squeeze the hair care formulation out through the opening 114 or openings 115.

In some embodiments, such as fig. 1D, the dispensing container 108 is a rectangular prism. In some embodiments, the rectangular prism is rigid. In some embodiments, the dispensing container 108 has a hinged lid 113. In some embodiments, a mirror 116 is disposed inside the cover 113. In operation, a user may carry the dispensing container 108 with him and use the mirror 116 to ensure that they apply hair care material to their desired hair portion.

Fig. 2 is an exemplary cartridge in accordance with the present technique. The barrel 130 has a rounded cylindrical body at a first end and a nozzle 160 and a circumferential groove 270 at a second end. The nozzle 160 is also disposed adjacent the barrel key 132. The cartridge 130 contains a quantity of hair care material and dispenses it into the dispensing container 108 as desired. In some embodiments, the cartridge 130 dispenses the hair care material by rotation of the cartridge gear while the cartridge 130 remains in place substantially vertically along the Y-axis. The circumferential groove 270 serves to secure the cartridge 130 inside the dispenser.

Through a first rotational movement of the first end of the barrel 130 relative to the second end, a quantity of hair care material is released from the barrel 130 through the nozzle 160. A rotational movement of the first end of the barrel 130 in a second direction opposite the first rotational movement may close the nozzle 160 of the barrel 130.

Fig. 3 is a top view of an example substrate of a dispenser device in accordance with the present technology. The base 102 may be connected to the body 106 of the dispensing device 100 in a manner that allows it to be rotated open to expose the plurality of cartridge openings 140. In some embodiments, the base 102 is completely removed to access the cartridge opening 140. In some embodiments, the base 102 is attached to the body 106 by a hinge, screw, magnet, or other mechanism for attachment. As shown, one or more cartridges 130 may be inserted into a plurality of cartridge holes 140. Although three cartridge holes 140 are shown in fig. 3, any number of cartridge holes 140 may be in the body 106 of the dispensing device 100.

The nozzle 160 of each cartridge 130 is disposed inside one of the cartridge holes 140. Various additional substructures and covers may be provided between the interior components of the hair care dispenser 100 and the dispenser body 106.

Fig. 4 is an exploded view of an example dispensing container 108 in accordance with the present technique. The dispensing container 108 may include a lid 113, a dispensing container base 182, and a bottom cover 184. The lid 113 is disposed over a dispensing container base 182 that is disposed over or within a bottom cover 184. The lid 113 may be secured to the dispensing container base 182 by magnets. The dispensing container base 182 includes a plurality of dispensing container through-holes 138. In this example, there is one dispensing container through hole 138 for each cartridge 130 in the dispensing device 100. A bottom cover 184 having a plurality of bottom cover through holes 136 is disposed below the dispensing container base 182. In this example, there is one bottom cover through hole 136 for each cartridge 114 in the hair care product dispenser 100, and the bottom cover 184 is disposed such that each bottom cover through hole 136 corresponds to and connects to a dispensing container base through hole 138 of the dispensing container base 182.

The dispensing container 108 is connected to the manifold 130, the manifold 180 is connected to and disposed above the gear housing in the dispenser 100, and also disposed within the dispenser body 106 of the hair care product dispenser 100, and the dispensing container 108 is disposed above both the manifold 180 and the dispenser body 106. The manifold 180 includes one manifold through-hole 135 for each cartridge 130 in the hair care product dispenser 100, and the manifold 180 is arranged such that each manifold through-hole 135 corresponds to and is connected to a dispensing container base through-hole 136 of the bottom cover 184. Further, each manifold through-hole 135 of the manifold 180 corresponds to and is disposed over a gear housing cartridge aperture of the gear housing, thereby providing a channel through which hair care material may be dispensed from the nozzle 160 of each cartridge 130 through the manifold 180, the bottom cover 184, and into the dispensing container base 182.

The dispensing container 108 may have a form such that the dispensing container 108 is connected to the hair care dispenser 100 in only one orientation. In another example, it is possible that the form of the dispensing container 108 may be connected to the dispensing container 108 in multiple orientations.

Further, hair care material dispensed into the dispensing container 108 may be prevented from flowing back through the use of one-way duckbill valves (not shown) disposed within each of the dispensing container base apertures 136 in the bottom cover 184 of the dispensing container 108.

Fig. 5A-5C are top views of an example dispensing container 108 in accordance with the present techniques. In some embodiments, the dispensing container 108 includes a plurality of compartments 300. In some embodiments, compartments 300 are different from each other to allow a user to determine which product is which. Examples of such differences include, but are not limited to, the shape of the compartment 300, the color of the compartment 300, and the size or depth of the compartment 300. In some embodiments, the compartments may be labeled, such as with the type of product in each compartment 300 (i.e., "shampoo," "conditioner," "softener," etc.).

Although fig. 5A-5C illustrate an example layout of the compartments 300, the compartments 300 may take any number of forms. Although all of the compartments 300 are shown as being geometric, the compartments 300 may take any shape, including curved or organic. Further, although an example configuration of the dispensing container base through holes 138 is shown, there may be any number of dispensing container base through holes 138 in any configuration, such as four dispensing container base through holes 138 arranged in four corners of a square shape.

Fig. 5A is a top view of an example dispensing container 108 having two compartments 300a, 300 b. In some embodiments, compartments 300a, 300b are equal in size. In some embodiments, the compartments 300a, 300b are configured to receive only a single cartridge 130 of hair care formulation through a single dispensing container base through-hole 138.

Fig. 5B is a top view of another example dispensing container having three compartments 300a, 300B, 300 c. In some embodiments, the compartments 300a, 300b, 300c may be shaped differently from one another. In some embodiments, the compartments 300a, 300b, 300c have different dimensions from one another. In some embodiments, the difference in the size of the compartments 300a, 300b, 300c is directly related to the type of product being dispensed. For example, the user may need a smaller amount of the root moisturizing formulation, but a larger amount of the shampoo and conditioner. In this case, the compartment for containing the root moisturizing formulation would be smaller to contain smaller doses, while the compartment for the shampoo and conditioner would be larger.

Fig. 5C is a top view of another example dispensing container having two compartments 300a, 300 b. In some embodiments, more than one dispensing container base through-hole 138 is dispensed into a single compartment 300, such that hair care material from two or more cartridges may be mixed inside a single compartment 300 (such as compartment 300 b). For example, when dispensing a shampoo, a user may desire the shampoo to have an added active ingredient, such as nut oil. In this case, the dispenser 100 may dispense the shampoo formulation and hyaluronic acid into a single compartment (such as 300 a) and allow the user to mix the two prior to use.

In operation, after the hair care material is dispensed, the user may remove the dispensing container 108 from the dispensing device 100. The user may then open the dispensing container 108 and view the compartments 300a, 300b, … …, 300n to select the hair care formulation they wish to apply. In some embodiments, the compartments are configured to align with one or more extruders of the dispenser (as explained in fig. 7A-7B).

Fig. 6A-6C are examples of hair care dispensing systems in accordance with the present technique. In some embodiments, the hair care product dispensing system further comprises an applicator 120. In some embodiments, the applicator 120 is attached to the dispensing device 100 itself, as shown in fig. 6A. In some embodiments, the applicator 120 is a brush attachment. In some embodiments, the applicator 120 is attached to the dispensing device 100 by a magnet. In operation, a user may remove the applicator and carry the applicator with him to apply the dispensed hair care formulation at another location.

In some embodiments, such as shown in fig. 6B, the applicator 120 is part of the dispensing container 108. In some embodiments, the dispensing container 108 includes an applicator receptacle 220. In some embodiments, applicator device receptacle 220 is an aperture. In some embodiments, applicator receptacle 220 is a threaded bore. In some embodiments, applicator receptacle 220 is a groove, a snap, a magnet, or any other attachment mechanism. Although the applicator receptacle 220 is shown on the side of the dispensing container 108, the applicator receptacle 220 may be on top of the dispensing container 108 or even disposed inside the lid 113 of the dispensing container 108.

In some embodiments, the applicator 120 is a bristle bar, such as a mascara-type applicator. In operation, the mascara applicator may be used to brush a portion of a user's hair with a hair care material, such as to secure fly-away hair or tender hair, moisturize the roots of the dyed hair, or spot-apply a hair care preparation to a target area. The user may then replace the applicator 120 into the applicator receptacle 220 on the dispensing container 108 to secure the hair care formulation for later use. In some embodiments, the applicator is a brush, spoon, or other device that applies the product to the hair. Fig. 6C shows how the applicator 120 fits into the dispensing container 108 when it is not in use.

Fig. 7A is an overall perspective view of an example dispenser 250 in accordance with the present technology. The dispenser 250 may be a bottle (such as a shampoo or conditioner bottle), but may take any other form, such as a squeeze tube. In some embodiments, the dispenser includes an extruder 255. The extruder 255 may be a mechanical pump (such as shown in fig. 7A), an electromagnetic pump, an opening, a sprayer, or any other device that extrudes a hair care formulation. The dispenser 250 may also include an attachment 260. In some embodiments, the attachment 260 is a magnet or suction cup.

The dispenser 250 includes a cavity 265 that can receive the dispensing container 108. Although cavity 265 is shown as a cylindrical cavity, it may take any form capable of receiving dispensing container 108, such as a rectangular prism. In some embodiments, the dispensing container 108 slides into the cavity 265. In some embodiments, the cavity 265 has a cover (not depicted in fig. 7B) to further secure the dispensing container 108 into the cavity 265 of the dispenser 250.

Fig. 7B is an interior view of an example dispenser 250 in accordance with the present technology. As described above, the dispensing container 108 may contain an opening 114 (as shown in FIG. 1B), or a plurality of openings 115 (as shown in FIG. 1C). In some embodiments, the opening 114 is on top of the dispensing container 108, but it may be on either side of the dispensing container 108. In some embodiments, the opening 114 or openings 115 may be configured to accept one or more extruders 255. In some embodiments, the plurality of openings 115 are aligned with the compartments 300 in the dispensing container 108 such that, in operation, the extruders 225 are aligned with the compartments 300 in the dispensing container 108 and each extruder extrudes a different hair care material.

As shown in fig. 7B, the dispensing container 108 having the opening 114 may be placed inside the cavity 265 of the dispenser 250. The opening 114 of the dispensing container 108 is aligned with the extruder 255 such that the extruder 255 can extrude one or more hair care formulations from the dispensing container 108. In some embodiments, there may be more than one extruder 255 for extruding two or more hair care formulations, e.g., two or more mechanical pumps.

In operation, a user may use the attachment 260 to secure the dispenser in a position, such as a wall, mirror, or shower/bath. The user may then squeeze out the hair care material at this desired location. For example, a user may dispense a shampoo formulation into the dispensing container 108. The user may then secure the dispensing container 108 into the cavity 265 of the dispenser 250 such that the opening 115 in the dispensing container 108 is aligned with the extruder 255 (such as a mechanical pump) in the dispenser 250. The user may then attach the dispenser 250 to the wall of their shower stall using the attachment 260 and use the extruder 255 to extrude shampoo from the dispensing container 108 into their hands or onto their hair.

Fig. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example sequence of main processes of a hair care formulation method 400 in accordance with the present technique. The examples provided herein each have three cartridges 114, but hair care dispenser 100 equipped with any number of cartridges 114 may use the same process. The hair care formulation method 400 includes a detection process S410, a selection process S420, and a dispensing process S430. The additional mixing process S440 may be performed by the user.

The detection process S410, selection process S420, and dispensing process S430 are performed by the hair care dispensing device 100 based on commands received from a controller (not shown) that sends data to and receives input from a user through the smart device 300 (shown in fig. 10) or through an indicator on the hair care dispensing device 100 itself.

Fig. 9 is a process diagram representing an example of process S420 of selecting a hair care formulation in accordance with the present technique. S420 includes a process for selecting a hair care formulation. Process S420 includes the step of identifying possible combinations of hair care formulations based on the type and amount of hair care material present in the hair care dispenser 100 established by the detection process S410.

In an embodiment, process S420 includes a step 422a of the user selecting a hair care formulation based on matching colors in the photograph, a step 422b of the user selecting a hair care formulation based on a recommendation or selecting a hair care formulation based on another process. U.S. patent No. 8,634,640 describes a method for selecting a color from an image or picture in a camera or electronic device and using color reference data to substantially match the color, and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

In an embodiment, step 422d is based on a user selecting from a set of hair care formulations that are likely to be available for the type and amount of hair care material present within the hair care dispenser 100, or step 422c allows a user to select from a larger set of hair care material inventories 204 that are likely to be available for the type and amount of hair care material that the hair care dispenser 100 is capable of using.

In another example, step 423 of process S420 includes allowing the user to select the desired dosage unit 118. Changing a dosage unit 118 can change a set of available hair care formulations from within the hair care formulation dispenser 100 if a greater amount of one or more hair care materials is desired than is available for dispensing a particular amount of dosage unit 118 of a particular hair care formulation.

For example, in the case of hair dye or root hair conditioner, if cartridge A contains yellow hair care material, cartridge B contains red hair care material, and cartridge C contains green hair care material, and only one dosage unit 118 of cartridge A remains, the user will not be able to select any combination of hair care formulation to dispense a dosage unit 118 and yellow hair care material requiring more than one dosage unit 118.

In another embodiment, hair diagnostics (sometimes referred to herein as hair profile) may be performed to provide a recommended plurality of predetermined qualities for user selection based on analysis of hair characteristics of the user. Hair diagnostics determine an appropriate hair care formulation for a user based on imaging operations performed on the user's hair.

For hair care formulations that are possible but not available based on the results of the detection process S410, the hair care product dispenser 100 can communicate to the user which hair care materials are needed to dispense such hair care formulations.

In one example, in step 424, the user selects a dosage unit 118 of a hair care formulation that is not currently available. Step 424 may determine what hair care materials are needed to mix and dispense the selected hair care formulation, such as what type of cartridge 114.

In another example, step 424 may determine which additional hair care formulation is available if a particular cartridge 114 is replaced with a full but otherwise identical cartridge 114. In another example, step 424 may determine which additional hair care formulations may become available if cartridge 114 is replaced with another cartridge 114 containing a different hair care material.

Step 425 determines whether to proceed to step 426 to prompt the user to confirm and continue dispensing hair care formulation based on the results of step 425, or to step 427 to report which cartridge or cartridges 114 are needed to dispense the desired cosmetic formulation.

After the dispensing process S430 is completed, the user may perform a process S440 of manually mixing the released cosmetic material, thereby producing a desired hair care formulation.

Fig. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a connected hair care dispensing system in accordance with the present technique. The system 600 embodying the hair care dispenser 100 described above includes at least the hair care dispenser 100 and the connected communication device 300. Optionally, the system may also include one or more external servers 410 implemented as part of a cloud computing environment. Additionally, the system may optionally include a hair care material inventory 204, which is an inventory of possible hair care materials that may be inserted into the hair care device 100.

The connected device 300 may be a Personal Computer (PC), a laptop computer, a PDA (personal digital assistant), a smart phone, a tablet device, a UMPC (ultra mobile personal computer), a netbook or a notebook personal computer. In the following example, the connected device 300 is assumed to be a tablet device, such as an apple iPad.

The connected communication device 300 is capable of wirelessly communicating with the hair care dispenser 100 through wireless communication interface circuitry on the hair care dispenser 100. However, the communication device 300 is also capable of making a wired connection to the hair care dispenser 100 through a USB interface on the device 100. In addition, each of the devices comprising the hair care dispenser 100 may communicate with each other and with one or more external devices through an internet connection (such as through an ethernet interface) via an 802.11 wireless connection to a wireless internet access point or a physical connection to an internet access point. Each connected communication device 300 is capable of performing wireless communication with other devices, such as through a bluetooth connection or other wireless means as well.

The connected communication device 300 is configured to receive information from a user for use in generating a hair care formulation that the hair care product dispenser 100 will use to dispense hair care material into the dispensing container 108.

Fig. 11 is an example system 700 for dispensing hair care formulations in accordance with the present technique. The system 700 includes a dispenser 710 (such as a beauty dispenser 100), a user smartphone device 720 (such as a communication device 300), and a cloud platform 730. The smartphone is shown to include two functional blocks, a smartphone application ("app") setting 721 and a smartphone application use 722. The smartphone application settings 721 relate to establishing initial setup information for configuring a user profile of a user, as described below. The setup information may then be utilized when the smartphone application is being used, and may also be sent to the cloud platform 730 for use in sending a selection of relevant appearances to the user.

The use of the smartphone application itself may include the user actually making a selection to determine the color, quality, or amount of hair care material, and performing interactive communications with the dispenser, such as sending a recipe to the dispenser and tracking the status of the dispenser (such as the inventory and remaining volume of cartridges in the dispenser). The smartphone application also performs interactive communications with the cloud platform. For example, the smartphone application may receive selections of related appearances as described above, provide direct user feedback from the user regarding the appearance previously sent by the cloud platform, and inform the cloud platform regarding colors and recipes actually selected by the user and dispensed by the dispenser. Such feedback may provide a form of machine learning to the cloud platform and improve the algorithms used by the cloud platform.

Fig. 12 is an example system 800 for dispensing hair dye in accordance with the present technique. In some embodiments, the example system may also dispense hair dye for root moisturizing, as well as hair care materials associated with hair dye (such as bleach and toner).

In some embodiments, the system suggests trend hair dyes to consumers after analyzing trends on social media by combining favorite colors, tastes, geographic locations, favorite influencers, past selections, favorites, and the like. In some embodiments, a user may choose a color based on appearance, virtually try the color and adjust the color as necessary to produce the formulation on-site using an attached dispenser, such as hair care dispenser 100. Colors may also be proposed based on the user's clothing digitized with self-taken pictures. Consumers can save their favorite color and share this color with their virtual community. In some embodiments, the user may save the colors dispensed in the past to continue to dye their hair to this desired shade.

In operation, the user smartphone ultimately delivers the recipe to the dispensing device via a smartphone application ("app"). The smartphone application interacts with both the connected distributor and cloud platform. Before the user performs normal operation (use) of the smartphone application, the application needs to be set 820 with the setting information for configuring the user profile. The application settings may be based on a number of setting inputs including questionnaires at boot time (such as favorite color, past color treatments, hair length, hair texture, etc.), social media vouchers (e.g., INSTAGRAM, TWITTER, facebooks, tremors, etc.), suggested favorite influents of similar hair colors, geographic location to determine local fashion style, and environmental data (UV index, pollution, humidity, pollen).

The settings input is used during normal use of the application on the smartphone, but they are also transmitted to the cloud platform, which may be an external server device connected via the internet.

Practical use of the smartphone application 810 includes selecting a mode for hair color selection. In this example, the patterns include patterns for selecting social media trend recommendations by an algorithm running in the cloud platform (discussed in more detail below). Another mode allows users to create their own hair dye using a wide variety of color options.

Another mode may allow users to match hair dye to their "look" based on a self-taken picture. In this example, hue and finish selections in the photograph are extracted. The user can virtually dye the hair dye in real time and adjust the color presented. In some embodiments, the user may decide whether they want to additionally dispense other formulations (such as bleach or toner) for dyeing their hair.

After the recipe is sent to the dispenser and the color tone of the hair dye is dispensed, the user can apply the hair dye. In some embodiments, the application provides instructions regarding using the product in the most efficient manner.

After using the hair dye, the user can use the application to provide feedback whether s/he likes to present an effect. The user may also save her favorite appearance and color for later reuse, and the user may share the appearance and color on the web page via the social media platform. In addition, the user can save the fact and date they dye their hair so that the application can remind the user to make a hair root, re-dye the hair, or recommend hair dye specific products (such as color safe shampoos and conditioners).

The cloud platform implements the functionality shown in 830, such as workflow and refinement of remote algorithms.

In a workflow performed by the cloud platform, social media network personal accounts (influencers, most popular appearances, etc.) may be crawled to obtain data related to hair color. The cloud platform may then perform a comparison of the extracted color with the colors that are most favored by the one or more user communities, while also taking into account user setting inputs received from the user's smartphone device. The final step, taking into account all the collected data, is for the cloud platform to send the results of the analysis to the user in the form of the relevant appearance choices set forth above. In some embodiments, the application may analyze these inputs and ensure that adverse reactions resulting from mixing these products will not occur. In some embodiments, the application may analyze a photograph of the user's hair to ensure that the product will not adversely affect the user's hair. In some embodiments, the application may alert the user as to the feasibility of achieving their desired hair color (such as alerting the user that multiple hair color treatments may be required to change from black to gold hair).

In the improvement process performed by the cloud platform and smartphone applications, the user can save his or her favorite appearance and "favorite" popular colors to enrich the crawling algorithm to obtain relevant recommendations later. The cloud platform may also aggregate the user's feedback and the platform may send the most popular colors in their area to the new user.

The dispenser operations in block 840 have been described above, but they are summarized below. The dispenser receives a proportion of the commands to dispense each cartridge. The dispenser dispenses the formulation into a dispensing container (such as dispensing container 108) and the user may mix it to obtain the desired color. In some embodiments, the dispenser may dispense other hair care formulations to aid in dyeing the user's hair (such as bleach or toner). In some embodiments, the hair care formulations are dispensed separately, one after the other. In some embodiments, the hair care formulation is dispensed simultaneously. The dispenser sends the remaining inventory of the formulation back to the consumer application to ensure that only the dispensable colors in the UI are available when the user makes a selection.

Fig. 13 is an example system 900 for suggesting hair formulations to a user in accordance with the present technology. The system shown in fig. 13 may provide the most effective hair care formulation for the user based on the user's geographic location, environmental factors, personal preferences, desired results, UV exposure, and hair characteristics or hair diagnostics assessed using a smart phone. In some embodiments, the system manages to adjust the ratio of active ingredients to achieve the most efficient daily regimen. In some embodiments, the system gives a hair care regimen. In some embodiments, the hair care regimen is a daily regimen. In some embodiments, the hair care regimen is a weekly regimen (as shown in fig. 10). The user can save their favorite formulation and share with his/her virtual community.

In operation, the user's smartphone ultimately sends the recipe to the dispensing device via the smartphone application. The smartphone application interacts with both the connected distributor and cloud platform. Before the user performs normal operation (use) of the smartphone application, the application needs to be set 910 with the setting information for configuring the user profile. The application settings may be based on one or more setting inputs, including questionnaires at the time of guidance (e.g., desired hair quality, hair length, previous hair care, hair focus, etc.), hair care analysis by a hairstylist or by AI algorithm with self-timer, geolocation based smartphone location detection functionality, and/or environmental data (UV index, contamination, humidity, pollen, etc.).

Practical use of the smartphone application 920 includes collecting environmental data based on geographic location and combining it with smartphone diagnostics to evaluate hair characteristics (greasy, white hair, lack of gloss, lice, dandruff, etc.).

In some embodiments, the user may also collect data of a UV sensor (such as the wearable UV sensor described in U.S. patent No. 10,060,787 (incorporated herein by reference)) that will give an accurate measurement of the received cumulative UV exposure. Based on historical data of hair evaluations and environmental factors, applications will process ideal formulations to protect the user's hair from overexposure to UV radiation.

In some embodiments, the application compares the user's input to the environmental factors surrounding the user and recommends one or more hair care formulations based on selections made by the user with similar hair characteristics, desired results, and environmental conditions. In some embodiments, the application ensures that there will be no adverse reaction between the recommended product and the user's hair. In some embodiments, the application ensures that there will be no adverse reaction between the recommended products themselves.

When the user is satisfied with the formulation, the user can touch a button displayed on the application to dispense the formulation, and the internal neural network breaks down the desired formulation into different cartridge components. After the recipe is sent to the dispenser and the formulation is dispensed, the user may apply the formulation. The user may provide feedback about their favorite formulation for a particular period of time.

The cloud platform implements the functionality shown in 930, such as workflow and refinement of remote algorithms. In the workflow performed by the cloud platform, specific notifications are sent to the application user to adjust the recipe based on environmental forecasts about UV, pollen, pollution, temperature. Furthermore, given the input of the user's geographic location (which may use tools such as BreezometerTM and a local UV index forecast (or UV exposure based on UV sensors as described above) to provide air quality determinations), the cloud platform may adjust the recipe to account for environmental factors such as UV exposure and air quality.

In the course of improvements performed by cloud platforms and smart phone applications, users may save their favorite recipes that are most efficient over time or that achieve the user's desired results. Users may also share their recipes with communities.

The cloud platform may also aggregate all user feedback and the cloud platform may send the most popular formulations in their area to new users. In some embodiments, the cloud platform may send the recommendation to other users with similar hair characteristics at the same general location.

The dispenser operations in block 940 have been described above, but they are summarized as follows. The dispenser receives a proportion of the commands to dispense each cartridge. The dispenser dispenses material on the top portion and the user can mix it to obtain the desired formulation. Finally, the dispenser sends the remaining inventory of the formulation back to the consumer application to ensure that only dispensable components are available in the UI when selected by the user.

Fig. 14 is an example method 1100 for dispensing hair formulation in accordance with the present technique. The method 1100 begins at block 1105.

In block 1105, a photograph is taken or uploaded. In some embodiments, the photograph is uploaded onto the application. In some embodiments, the application is configured to access a camera of the user to take the photograph. The method 1100 then proceeds to block 1110.

In block 1110, one or more hair characteristics are analyzed. The hair characteristics may include any number of hair characteristics, including any of the hair characteristics described herein. Examples of hair characteristics may include color, luster, oiliness, smoothness, curling, dandruff, and the like. The method 1110 then proceeds to blocks 1150A, 1150B, 1150C, and 1150D.

In block 1150A, environmental conditions are analyzed as described herein. Environmental conditions may include UV spectrum, temperature, humidity, location, etc. In block 1150B, user input, such as the user input described herein, is analyzed. In some embodiments, user input includes, but is not limited to, a day of dyeing, a desired hair quality, a special event, and the like. In block 1150C, the user recommendations are analyzed. In some embodiments, the user recommendations include recommendations made by users located in the same place, having the same hair quality, having the same environmental conditions, and the like. In block 1150D, the potential adverse interactions are analyzed. In some embodiments, this includes determining whether any products in the hair care regimen will interact negatively with each other (such as bleach and shampoo). It should be appreciated that blocks 1150A-1150B may occur simultaneously or sequentially. In some embodiments, any of blocks 1150A-1150D may be omitted. The method 1110 then proceeds to block 1120.

In block 1120, a hair care regimen (such as hair care regimen 1200 in fig. 15) is given. The method then proceeds to block 1125.

In block 1125, a hair care formulation (formulation) is dispensed. In some embodiments, the user may actuate the device each time they wish to dispense one or more of the hair care formulations given in the hair care regimen. In some embodiments, the dispensing device automatically dispenses the hair care formulation based on a hair care regimen.

Fig. 15 is an exemplary hair care regimen 1200 presented by a hair care dispensing system in accordance with the present technique.

In some embodiments, the application recommends a hair care regimen to the user based on the user's previous hair treatments, hair characteristics, and environmental conditions. A weekly regimen is shown, but the regimen 1200 given may be of any length, such as daily or monthly.

In some embodiments, the application may use knowledge of the user's past processing or use of the dispensing device to inform the scheme 1200. In some embodiments, the application may use environmental conditions of the user, such as pollution, UV exposure, and pollen. In some embodiments, the application may use a user's hair characteristics (such as color, texture, or length) or hair diagnostics (such as lice, greasiness, or dandruff) to inform the regimen. In some embodiments, the application may use user preferences (such as the number of showers per week of the user or the preferred products). In some embodiments, the application may recommend a solution based on a solution for another user with similar hair characteristics, environmental factors, and/or preferences. In some embodiments, the application may use known product recommendations and time ranges of the product to inform the regimen (such as a recommendation by the manufacturer to use hair mask twice a week instead of conditioner). In some embodiments, the application may use calendar data and user input related to a particular date (such as an appointment night for a particular friday) to inform of the regimen (i.e., by giving a starting film the evening before the day, or giving hair gel for styling the day). In some embodiments, the potential for adverse reactions between the hair care product itself or between the hair care product and the user's hair is used to inform the regimen. In some embodiments, an application may create a schema using a combination of some or all of the described methods. In some embodiments, the hair care formulation is dispensed daily. In some embodiments, the hair care formulation is dispensed for the entire regimen (i.e., a sufficient dose for a week, month, etc.).

In the example shown in fig. 15, an example weekly scheme 1100 has been given to the user. On monday, the user dispenses hair dye as well as toner and bleach to aid in dyeing. In some embodiments, the user may inform the application that they have applied the hair dye, so the application may give a color lotion to the user's dyed hair, such as shown on the weekday of the example regimen.

On Tuesday, color protecting shampoos and conditioners are applied. In some embodiments, the application may notify the regimen using the user's dispensing and application of the stain. In some embodiments, the application may use the user's saved preferences to recommend color shampoos and conditioners.

On Wednesday, the application did not give any product. In some embodiments, this may be based on user preferences. In some embodiments, this may be based on advice from the manufacturer (i.e., the particular color-protecting shampoo prescribed should be used only three times a week).

On thursday, color protecting shampoos and hair films are applied. Again, this may be done based on recommendations made by the manufacturer or personal preferences of the user. In some embodiments, the recommendation of hair films may be based on the lack of adverse reactions between the color protecting shampoo and the particular hair film.

On sunday, a root moisturizing preparation is given. This may also be recommended based on recommendations from the manufacturer or personal preferences of the user.

In some embodiments, the scheme may be presented based on environmental factors. For example, when the environmental sensor detects a certain amount of UV exposure based on the user's location, the application may recommend a hair care formulation with zinc oxide.

In some embodiments, the regimen may be given based on other users having similar hair characteristics and environmental conditions. For example, an application may give a hair care formulation with zinc oxide based on the preference of another user residing in the same area.

Embodiments disclosed herein may utilize circuitry to implement the techniques and methods described herein, operatively connect two or more components, generate information, determine operating conditions, control instruments, devices or methods, and so forth. Any type of circuitry may be used. In embodiments, the circuitry includes one or more computing devices, such as a processor (e.g., microprocessor), central processing unit (central processing unit, CPU), digital signal processor (DIGITAL SIGNAL processor, DSP), application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), field-programmable gate array (FPGA) or the like, or any combination thereof, among others, and may include discrete digital or analog circuit elements or electronics, or combinations thereof.

In an embodiment, the circuitry includes one or more ASICs having a plurality of predefined logic components. In an embodiment, the circuitry includes one or more FPGAs having a plurality of programmable logic components. In an example, the circuitry includes hardware circuit implementations (e.g., implementations performed in analog circuitry, implementations performed in digital circuitry, etc., and combinations thereof). In an embodiment, the circuitry includes a combination of circuitry and a computer program product having software or firmware instructions stored on one or more computer-readable memories working together to cause an apparatus to perform one or more methods or techniques described herein. In an embodiment, the circuitry includes circuitry, such as a microprocessor or portion of a microprocessor, that requires software, firmware, etc. to operate. In an embodiment, the circuitry includes a implementation comprising one or more processors or portions thereof, along with software, firmware, hardware, and the like. In an embodiment, the circuitry includes a baseband integrated circuit or an application processor integrated circuit or a similar integrated circuit in a server, cellular network device, other network device, or other computing device. In an embodiment, the circuitry includes one or more remotely located components. In an embodiment, the remotely located components are operatively connected via wireless communication. In an embodiment, the remotely located components are operatively connected via one or more receivers, transmitters, transceivers, and the like.

Embodiments include one or more data storage devices that store, for example, instructions or data. Non-limiting examples of the one or more data storage devices include volatile memory (e.g., random access memory (Random Access memory, RAM), dynamic random access memory (Dynamic Random Access memory, DRAM), etc.), non-volatile memory (e.g., read-Only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable Read-Only memory (ELECTRICALLY ERASABLE PROGRAMMABLE READ-Only memory, EEPROM), compact disc Read-Only memory (Compact Disc Read-Only memory, CD-ROM), etc.), persistent memory, and the like. Other non-limiting examples of one or more data storage devices include erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), flash memory, and so forth. The one or more data storage devices may be connected to, for example, one or more computing devices through one or more instruction, data, or power buses.

In an embodiment, the circuitry includes one or more computer-readable media drives, interface sockets, universal serial bus (Universal Serial Bus, USB) ports, memory card slots, etc., as well as one or more input/output components (e.g., graphical user interfaces, displays, keyboards, keypads, trackballs, joysticks, touch screens, mice, switches, dials, etc.), and any other peripheral devices. In an embodiment, the circuitry includes one or more user input/output components operatively connected to at least one computing device to control (electrical, electromechanical, software-implemented, firmware-implemented, or other control, or a combination thereof) one or more aspects of the embodiment.

In an embodiment, the circuitry includes a computer-readable medium drive or memory slot configured to accept a signal-bearing medium (e.g., a computer-readable storage medium, a computer-readable recording medium, etc.). In an embodiment, a program for causing a system to operate any one of the disclosed methods may be stored on, for example, a computer readable recording medium (CRMM), a signal bearing medium, or the like. Non-limiting examples of signal bearing media include: recordable media such as any form of flash memory, magnetic tape, floppy disk, hard disk drive, compact Disk (CD), digital video disk (Digital Video Disk, DVD), blu-ray disc, digital tape, computer memory, etc.; other non-limiting examples of signal bearing media include, but are not limited to, DVD-ROM, DVD-RAM, DVD+RW, DVD-RW, DVD-R, DVD + R, CD-ROM, super-audio CD, CD-R, CD + R, CD +RW, CD-RW, video compact disc, super-video disc, flash memory, magnetic tape, magneto-optical disc, MINIDISC, non-volatile memory card, EEPROM, optical disc, optical storage, RAM, ROM, system memory, web server, and the like.

The detailed description set forth above in connection with the appended drawings, wherein like reference numerals refer to like elements, is intended as a description of various embodiments of the present disclosure and is not intended to represent the only embodiments. Each embodiment described in this disclosure is provided by way of example or illustration only and should not be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments. The illustrative examples provided herein are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure to the precise forms disclosed. Similarly, any step described herein may be interchanged with other steps or combinations of steps to achieve the same or substantially similar results. In general, the embodiments disclosed herein are non-limiting, and the inventors contemplate that other embodiments within the scope of the present disclosure may include structure and function from more than one specific embodiment shown in the figures and described in the specification.

In the previous description, specific details were set forth to provide a thorough understanding of exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be apparent, however, to one skilled in the art that the embodiments disclosed herein may be practiced without all of the specific details. In some instances, well known process steps have not been described in detail in order to not unnecessarily obscure aspects of the present disclosure. Further, it should be understood that embodiments of the present disclosure may employ any combination of the features described herein.

The present application may include references to directions such as "vertical", "horizontal", "front", "back", "left", "right", "top" and "bottom", etc. These references, as well as other similar references in the present disclosure, are intended to aid in describing and understanding particular embodiments (such as when the embodiments are positioned for use), and are not intended to limit the disclosure to these orientations or positions.

The application may also refer to numbers and numbers. These numbers and numbers should not be considered limiting, unless specifically stated, but rather examples of possible numbers or numbers associated with the application. Also in this regard, the term "plurality" may be used herein to refer to a number or number. In this regard, the term "plurality" refers to any number greater than 1, such as 2, 3,4, 5, etc. The terms "about", "about" and the like mean ± 5% of the value. The term "based on" means "based at least in part on.

In the foregoing description, principles, representative embodiments and modes of operation of the present disclosure have been described. However, aspects of the present disclosure that are intended to be protected should not be construed as limited to the particular embodiments disclosed. Further, the embodiments described herein should be regarded as illustrative rather than restrictive. It is to be understood that variations and modifications may be made by others, and equivalents may be employed, without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure. Accordingly, all such changes, modifications, and equivalents are expressly intended to be within the spirit and scope of the disclosure as claimed.

Claims

1. A system for dispensing hair care products, the system comprising:

A dispensing device;

at least one cartridge containing hair care material, the at least one cartridge configured to fit inside the dispensing device; and

A dispensing container removably attached to the dispensing device, wherein the dispensing container is configured to receive a quantity of the hair care material from the at least one cartridge.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the dispensing container further comprises a cap.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the dispensing container is a flexible tube.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein the dispensing container further comprises an opening.

5. The system of claim 4, wherein the dispensing container further comprises a plurality of openings.

6. The system of claim 5, wherein the plurality of openings are brush-like openings configured to brush through hair while extruding the hair care material.

7. The system of claim 1, wherein the dispensing container further comprises an applicator.

8. The system of claim 7, wherein the dispensing container further comprises an applicator receptacle configured to hold the applicator.

9. The system of claim 7, wherein the applicator is a brush.

10. The system of claim 7, wherein the applicator is a bristle-bearing wand.

11. The system of claim 1, wherein the dispensing container further comprises two or more compartments for containing the hair care material.

12. The system of claim 11, wherein the dispensing container is configured to receive a first quantity of a first hair care material from a first cartridge in a first compartment and a second quantity of a second hair care material different from the first hair care material from a second cartridge into a second compartment.

13. The system of claim 11, wherein the two or more compartments are configured to receive the hair care material from two or more cartridges such that the two or more hair care materials are mixed in a single compartment.

14. The system of claim 11, wherein the two or more compartments are different in shape from each other.

15. The system of claim 11, wherein the two or more compartments are different in color from each other.