US20230329419A1

US20230329419A1 - Automated nail styling machine

Info

Publication number: US20230329419A1
Application number: US17/722,315
Authority: US
Inventors: Orinda Palmer
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2022-04-16
Filing date: 2022-04-16
Publication date: 2023-10-19

Abstract

An example operation includes one or more of: detecting a presence of a hand resting on a hand rest; in response to detecting the presence of the hand, determining a nail shape and a nail size of the hand; receiving a user input specifying at least one manicure preference to be applied to one or more nails of the hand; in response to receiving the user input, activating at least one of an actuator, a motor or a hydraulic piston to raise the hand rest; performing an automated manicure of one or more nails on the hand using the determined nail shape, the determined nail size, and the user input; and in response to a completion of the automated manicure, activating at least one of the actuator, the motor, or the hydraulic piston to lower the hand rest.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims the benefit of the filing date of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 63/181,571, filed on Apr. 29, 2021, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

Standard manicure, pedicure, and nail designing procedures can take a considerable amount of time. Beauty technicians may require hours to fully complete a set of desired nail procedures and tasks for a client. Individuals may not have sufficient time during the day to obtain a desired look and style for their fingernails and/or toenails.
At the time of this writing, a bottle of salon-quality nail polish costs approximately $10. Between purchasing a variety of shades, as well as a base coat and top coat, the customer can spend about $100 per year on nail polishes. The customer could also spend approximately $100 on an array of nail tools such as files, nail clippers, a basin to soak the feet, cuticle cream, etc. A typical customer may spend up to $1,368 per year in nail care costs at a salon. Doing one's own nails may result in a substantial savings per year as follows: Savings: $260 per year ($100 polishes+$100 supplies+$60 salon pedicures=$260), Savings Total: $1,108. Salons in the U.S. charge an average of $19.50 for a manicure. The average cost of a pedicure is $32.25. The average woman who gets manicures and pedicures does so every two weeks, running her an average of $1,345 per year. Whether one pampers themselves with these treatments once a month or just a handful of times during the summer, the costs quickly add up.
At a nail salon, a basic manicure costs between $10 and $40. Some salons charge less if the customer opts for a polish-free manicure. On average, a manicure takes 30 to 60 minutes at a salon, plus drying time. A basic manicure may last, for example, approximately two to three weeks. Salon services are not inexpensive. The customer may spend $42 ($35+$7 tip) at the nail salon twice a month for a gel manicure. Forty-two dollars times 24 visits per year means a grand total of $1,008 per year. Additionally, for every other salon visit, the customer might get a $30 pedicure ($25+$5 tip). Thirty dollars times 12 visits per year means the customer is tacking on an additional $360 annually for pedicures. So, between manicures and pedicures, a customer can spend $1,368 per year at the nail salon.
In 2018, approximately 8.36 billion U.S. dollars were spent on nail salon services in the U.S. A nail salon is a specialty beauty salon which provides nail care services including manicures and pedicures and nail enhancement services such as polishes, overlays and extensions to both male and female customers. The increase in spending on nail salon services in years prior to 2018 has not corresponded with a growth in the number of nails salons across the United States. In 2006, there were approximately 59,843 nail salons in the U.S. and this number has since oscillated over the years. In 2013, the figure dropped to 48,930 nail salons; a decrease of over 10,000 salons. By 2015, the number of nail salons more than doubled, with over 129,600 salons in that year but only to drop to about 54,300 in 2018.
Salons can compete with one another by the price and range of services they offer. The share of services offered at nail salons and studios in the U.S. was documented in 2018. In that year, 90 percent of salons offered manicures and polish changes, making them the most common types of services. At the opposite end of the ranking came hybrid gels and tube gels with 26 percent. As manicures were deemed the most common type of service offered by nail salons, customers may need assistance when deciding which salon to use. The reputation of a particular nail technician may help this decision. So may the price. Between 2003 and 2018, the average price of a basic manicure at nail studios in the U.S. has been recorded. In 2018, the average price stood at 21.34 U.S. dollars, which is the highest price since 2005. When it comes to the average price of deluxe manicures however, customers were expected to pay up to 30 U.S. dollars in 2018. The customer might come to realize that this money could be better allocated elsewhere in their budget. What is needed is a do-it-yourself alternative to the nail styling salon.

SUMMARY

One example embodiment provides a method for performing an automated manicure. The method includes detecting a presence of a hand resting on a hand rest; in response to detecting the presence of the hand, determining a nail shape and a nail size of the hand; receiving a user input specifying at least one manicure preference to be applied to one or more nails of the hand; in response to receiving the user input, activating at least one of an actuator, a motor or a hydraulic piston to raise the hand rest; performing an automated manicure of one or more nails on the hand using the determined nail shape, the determined nail size, and the user input; and in response to a completion of the automated manicure, activating at least one of the actuator, the motor, or the hydraulic piston to lower the hand rest.
Another example embodiment provides a method for performing an automated pedicure. The method includes detecting a presence of a foot resting on a footrest; in response to detecting the presence of the foot, determining a nail shape and a nail size of the foot; receiving a user input specifying at least one pedicure preference to be applied to one or more nails of the foot; in response to receiving the user input, activating at least one of an actuator, a motor or a hydraulic piston to raise the footrest; performing an automated pedicure of one or more nails on the foot using the determined nail shape, the determined nail size, and the user input; and in response to a completion of the automated pedicure, activating at least one of the actuator, the motor, or the hydraulic piston to lower the footrest.
Another example embodiment provides a manicure machine including a non-transitory computer-readable memory communicably coupled to a processor; an object detector configured for detecting a presence of a hand resting on a hand rest, wherein the object detector is operatively coupled to the processor; a nail scanner, operatively coupled to the object detector such that, in response to the object detector detecting the presence of the hand, the nail scanner determines a nail shape and a nail size of the hand; an input mechanism configured for receiving a user input specifying at least one manicure preference to be applied to one or more nails of the hand, wherein the input mechanism is operatively coupled to the processor; at least one of an actuator, a motor or a hydraulic piston to raise the hand rest in response to the input mechanism receiving the user input; wherein the actuator, motor, and/or hydraulic piston is operatively coupled to the processor; a nail styling mechanism for performing an automated manicure of one or more nails on the hand using the determined nail shape, the determined nail size, and the user input; wherein the nail styling mechanism is operatively coupled to the processor; and wherein, in response to a completion of the automated manicure, the processor activates at least one of the actuator, the motor, or the hydraulic piston to lower the hand rest.
Another example embodiment provides a pedicure machine including a non-transitory computer-readable memory communicably coupled to a processor; an object detector configured for detecting a presence of a foot resting on a footrest, wherein the object detector is operatively coupled to the processor; a nail scanner, operatively coupled to the object detector such that, in response to the object detector detecting the presence of the foot, the nail scanner determines a nail shape and a nail size of the foot; an input mechanism configured for receiving a user input specifying at least one pedicure preference to be applied to one or more nails of the foot, wherein the input mechanism is operatively coupled to the processor; at least one of an actuator, a motor or a hydraulic piston to raise the footrest in response to the input mechanism receiving the user input; wherein the actuator, motor, and/or hydraulic piston is operatively coupled to the processor; a nail styling mechanism for performing an automated pedicure of one or more nails on the foot using the determined nail shape, the determined nail size, and the user input; wherein the nail styling mechanism is operatively coupled to the processor; and wherein, in response to a completion of the automated pedicure, the processor activates at least one of the actuator, the motor, or the hydraulic piston to lower the footrest.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates a flow diagram of a manicure procedure, according to example embodiments.

FIG. 2 illustrates a hardware block diagram of a manicure machine, according to example embodiments.

FIG. 3 illustrates a flow diagram of a pedicure procedure, according to example embodiments.

FIG. 4 illustrates a hardware block diagram of a pedicure machine, according to example embodiments.

FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of a machine for performing manicures and/or pedicures, according to example embodiments.

FIG. 6 is a first nail shapes chart illustrating a plurality of nail shapes for use with any of the embodiments described in FIGS. 1-5 .

FIG. 7 is a second nail shapes chart illustrating a plurality of nail shapes for use with any of the embodiments described in FIGS. 1-5 .

FIG. 8 is a nail shape guide illustrating a plurality of nail shapes for use with any of the embodiments described in FIGS. 1-5 .

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The instant solution is a beauty machine that allows a user to obtain a manicure and/or a pedicure in the convenience of their own home without having to go to a nail salon. Some embodiments of the beauty machine perform similar or identical functions as an in-person nail technician, but at a more efficient pace. The beauty machine is designed to be versatile. Set-up is user-friendly for people of all ages. The beauty machine is designed to allow users to get their nails done anytime or anywhere, which makes it convenient for users who are busy and unable to get to the nail salon for service. The beauty machine can help business owners such as nail salons, nail technician schools, beauty and barber salons, esthetician businesses, cosmetic schools and make-up artists to increase their business revenue. The beauty machine comes with pre-loaded designs in the machine for users and/or customers to make a selection. The beauty machine is ideal for kids, adults, and teenagers. In some embodiments, the beauty machine is offered in a plurality of different model editions as determined by user and/or customer preferences. The beauty machine is a must-have product for the beauty industry.
The beauty machine enables users to perform manicures and pedicures at home for a fraction of the cost of a nail salon, yet at the same time provides users with access to nail salon-quality polishes and nail tools. The beauty machine enables users to transition to performing manicures and pedicures at home to save money every year in the comfort of their homes.
It will be readily understood that the instant components, as generally described and illustrated in the figures herein, may be arranged and designed in a wide variety of different configurations. Thus, the following detailed description of the embodiments of at least one of a method, apparatus, computer readable storage medium and system, as represented in the attached figures, is not intended to limit the scope of the application as claimed but is merely representative of selected embodiments. Multiple embodiments depicted herein are not intended to limit the scope of the solution. The computer-readable storage medium may be a non-transitory computer readable medium or a non-transitory computer readable storage medium.
The instant features, structures, or characteristics as described throughout this specification may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. For example, the usage of the phrases “example embodiments”, “some embodiments”, or other similar language, throughout this specification refers to the fact that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment may be included in at least one example. Thus, appearances of the phrases “example embodiments”, “in some embodiments”, “in other embodiments”, or other similar language, throughout this specification do not necessarily all refer to the same group of embodiments, and the described features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. In the diagrams, any connection between elements can permit one-way and/or two-way communication even if the depicted connection is a one-way or two-way arrow.
Data shared and received may be stored in a database, which maintains data in one single database (e.g., database server) and generally at one particular location. This location is often a central computer, for example, a desktop central processing unit (CPU), a server CPU, or a mainframe computer. Information stored on a centralized database is typically accessible from multiple different points. A centralized database is easy to manage, maintain, and control, especially for purposes of security because of its single location. Within a centralized database, data redundancy is minimized as a single storing place of all data also implies that a given set of data only has one primary record. A blockchain may be used for storing transport-related data and transactions.
Any of the actions described herein may be performed by one or more processors (such as a microprocessor, a sensor, an Electronic Control Unit (ECU), a head unit, or the like). The one or more processors may communicate with other processors. The one or more processors and the other processors can send data, receive data, and utilize this data to perform one or more of the actions described or depicted herein.
FIG. 1 illustrates a flow diagram 150 of a manicure procedure, according to example embodiments. In some embodiments, the procedure is performed by a manicure machine 200 that includes a processor 204 operatively coupled to a computer-readable storage medium 202. The computer-readable storage medium may be a non-transitory computer readable memory or a non-transitory computer readable storage medium. The computer-readable storage medium 202 stores instructions that, when executed by the processor 204, perform the following procedure described with reference to blocks 104-116.
The procedure commences at block 104 where a presence of a user's hand resting on a hand rest within the manicure machine 200 is detected using an object detection mechanism operatively coupled to the processor 204. In some embodiments, the object detection mechanism includes one or more of a proximity detector, a capacitive sensor, an optical sensor, a pressure sensor, a laser, and/or a light source. Upon detection of the presence of the user's hand, the procedure progresses to block 106 where a nail shape and a nail size of the user's hand are determined using a nail scanner operatively coupled to the processor 204. For example, the nail size can be determined with reference to a length and a width of one or more nails of a user's hand, and/or by the processor 204 calculating an average length and an average width of all nails of a user's hand.
The nail shape can be determined by comparing a scanned image of one or more nails generated by the nail scanner to a database that includes a plurality of digitized nail shape templates stored in the computer-readable storage medium 202. The processor 204 identifies a template of the plurality of digitized nail shape templates that most closely matches the scanned image of one or more nails. For example, the digitized nail shape templates may include a template for an oval-shaped nail, a template for a rectangular-shaped nail, a template for a round-shaped nail, and a template for an elongated nail.
FIG. 6 is a first nail shapes chart illustrating a first plurality of nail shapes 600 for use with the procedure of FIG. 1 . In some embodiments, one or more of the first plurality of nail shapes 600 may be incorporated into the digitized nail shape templates stored in the computer-readable storage medium 202. Likewise, FIG. 7 is a second nail shapes chart illustrating a second plurality of nail shapes 700 for use with the procedure of FIG. 1 . In some embodiments, one or more of the second plurality of nail shapes 700 may be incorporated into the digitized nail shape templates stored in the computer-readable storage medium 202. Similarly, FIG. 8 is a nail shape guide illustrating a third plurality of nail shapes 800 for use with the procedure of FIG. 1 . In some embodiments, one or more of the third plurality of nail shapes 900 may be incorporated into the digitized nail shape templates stored in the computer-readable storage medium.
At block 108, an input mechanism and/or a touchscreen receives a first selection specifying a desired nail style, a second selection specifying a desired nail length, a third selection specifying a preference of gel nails, acrylic nails, or natural nails, and a fourth selection specifying a nail color. The input mechanism and the touchscreen are operatively coupled to the processor 204. In response to the receipt of the first, second, third and fourth selections, at block 110 the processor 204 activates at least one of an actuator, a motor, or a hydraulic piston to raise the hand rest.
The procedure advances to block 112 where an automated manicure is performed on the user's nails using the first, second, third and fourth selections. The automated manicure includes a filing of the user's nails and an application of zero or more pre-shaped nail tips. Optionally, at block 114, nail polish is applied to at least one of the user's nails, and/or to one or more of the pre-shaped nail tips, using at least one of a sprayer or a brush. After the automated manicure is complete, at block 116 the processor 204 initiates a lowering of the hand rest using at least one of the actuator, the hydraulic piston, or the motor.
FIG. 2 illustrates a hardware block diagram 250 of the manicure machine 200, according to example embodiments. In some embodiments, the processor 204 (FIGS. 1 and 2 ) executes the instant solution in the computer-readable storage medium 202. An object detector 210 (FIG. 2 ) is operatively coupled to the processor 204. The object detector 210 is configured to detect the presence of the user's hand resting on a hand rest 208 within the manicure machine 200. In some embodiments, the object detector 210 includes one or more of a proximity detector, a capacitive sensor, an optical sensor, a pressure sensor, a laser, and/or a light source.
A nail scanner 212 is operatively coupled to the processor 204. Upon detection of the presence of the user's hand by the object detector 210, the nail scanner 212 determines the nail shape and the nail size of the user's hand. As mentioned previously, the nail shape can be determined with reference to the length and the width of one or more nails of the user's hand, and/or by the processor 204 calculating the average length and the average width of all nails of the user's hand.
An input mechanism 216 and a touchscreen 214 are operatively coupled to the processor 204. The input mechanism 216 is a keypad, one or more pushbuttons, one or more switches, or any of various combinations thereof. The touchscreen 214 is configured to display information and accept tactile input entered by the user. In some embodiments, the input mechanism 216 receives the first selection specifying the desired nail style, the second selection specifying the desired nail length, the third selection specifying the preference of gel nails, acrylic nails, or natural nails, and the fourth selection specifying a nail color. In another set of embodiments, the touchscreen 214 receives the first, second, third and fourth selections. In yet another set of embodiments, at least one of the first, second, third or fourth selections are received by the touchscreen 214, and any of the first, second, third or fourth selections that are not received by the touchscreen 214 are received by the input mechanism 216. For example, in one embodiment, the first and second selections can be received by the touchscreen 214, and the third and fourth selections can be received by the input mechanism 216. This example is provided solely for purposes of illustration, as the first, second, third and fourth selections can be received by any combination of the touchscreen 214 and/or the input mechanism 216. Optionally, at least one of the first, second, third or fourth selections are stored in the computer-readable storage medium 202 so that a user need not re-enter his or her preferences into the manicure machine 200 upon repeated use.
In response to the receipt of the first, second, third and fourth selections from the touchscreen 214 and/or the input mechanism 216, the processor 204 activates at least one of an actuator 206, a motor, or a hydraulic piston to raise the hand rest 208. Then, the processor 204 initiates a performance of an automated manicure on the user's nails using the first, second, third and fourth selections. In some embodiments, the automated manicure includes a filing of the user's nails by a nail filing drill 218, and an application of zero or more pre-shaped or pre-cut nail tips by a pre-shaped nail tip applicator 222. In some embodiments, the pre-shaped and/or pre-cut nail tips are stored in a nail tip storage 224. Optionally, nail polish is applied by a nail brush 228 and/or a sprayer to at least one of the user's nails, and/or to one or more of the pre-shaped nail tips. Optionally, a nail decor applicator 226 applies one or more decorations or one or more items of nail art to the user's nails. After the automated manicure is complete, the processor 204 initiates a lowering of the hand rest 208 using at least one of the actuator 206, the hydraulic piston, or the motor.
FIG. 3 illustrates a flow diagram 350 of a pedicure procedure, according to example embodiments. In some embodiments, the procedure is performed by a pedicure machine 300 that includes a processor 404 operatively coupled to a computer-readable storage medium 402. The computer-readable storage medium may be a non-transitory computer readable medium or a non-transitory computer readable storage medium. The computer-readable storage medium 402 stores instructions that, when executed by the processor 404, perform the following procedure described with reference to blocks 304-316.
The procedure commences at block 304 where a presence of a user's foot resting on a footrest within the pedicure machine 300 is detected using an object detection mechanism operatively coupled to the processor 404. In some embodiments, the object detection mechanism includes one or more of a proximity detector, a capacitive sensor, an optical sensor, a pressure sensor, a laser, and/or a light source. Upon detection of the presence of the user's foot, the procedure progresses to block 306 where a nail shape and a nail size for the user's foot are determined using a nail scanner operatively coupled to the processor 404. For example, the nail size can be determined with reference to a length and a width of one or more nails of a user's foot, and/or by the processor 204 calculating an average length and an average width of all nails of a user's foot. The nail shape can be determined by comparing a scanned image of one or more nails generated by the nail scanner to a database that includes a plurality of digitized nail shape templates stored in the computer-readable storage medium 402. The processor 404 identifies a template of the plurality of digitized nail shape templates that most closely matches the scanned image of one or more nails. For example, the digitized nail shape templates may include a template for an oval-shaped nail, a template for a rectangular-shaped nail, a template for a round-shaped nail, and a template for an elongated nail.
At block 308, an input mechanism and/or a touchscreen receives a first selection specifying a desired nail style, a second selection specifying a desired nail length, a third selection specifying a preference of gel nails, acrylic nails, or natural nails, and a fourth selection specifying a nail color. The input mechanism and the touchscreen are operatively coupled to the processor 404. In response to the receipt of the first, second, third and fourth selections, at block 310 the processor 404 activates at least one of an actuator, a motor, or a hydraulic piston to raise the footrest.
The procedure advances to block 312 where an automated pedicure is performed on the user's nails using the first, second, third and fourth selections. The automated pedicure includes a filing of the user's nails and an application of zero or more pre-shaped nail tips. Optionally, at block 114, nail polish is applied to at least one of the user's nails, and/or to one or more of the pre-shaped nail tips, using at least one of a sprayer or a brush. After the automated pedicure is complete, at block 116 the processor 204 initiates a lowering of the footrest using at least one of the actuator, the hydraulic piston, or the motor.
FIG. 4 illustrates a hardware block diagram 450 of the pedicure machine 400, according to example embodiments. In some embodiments, the processor 404 (FIGS. 3 and 4 ) executes the instant solution in the computer-readable storage medium 402. An object detector 410 (FIG. 4 ) is operatively coupled to the processor 404. The object detector 410 is configured to detect the presence of the user's foot resting on a footrest 408 within the pedicure machine 400. In some embodiments, the object detector 410 includes one or more of a proximity detector, a capacitive sensor, an optical sensor, a pressure sensor, a laser, and/or a light source.
A nail scanner 412 is operatively coupled to the processor 404. Upon detection of the presence of the user's foot by the object detector 410, the nail scanner 412 determines the nail shape and the nail size of the user's foot. As mentioned previously, the nail shape can be determined with reference to the length and the width of one or more nails of the user's foot, and/or by the processor 204 calculating the average length and the average width of all nails of the user's foot.
An input mechanism 416 and a touchscreen 414 are operatively coupled to the processor 404. The input mechanism 416 is a keypad, one or more pushbuttons, one or more switches, or any of various combinations thereof. The touchscreen 414 is configured to display information and accept tactile input entered by the user. In some embodiments, the input mechanism 416 receives the first selection specifying the desired nail style, the second selection specifying the desired nail length, the third selection specifying the preference of gel nails, acrylic nails, or natural nails, and the fourth selection specifying a nail color. In another set of embodiments, the touchscreen 414 receives the first, second, third and fourth selections. In yet another set of embodiments, at least one of the first, second, third or fourth selections are received by the touchscreen 414, and any of the first, second, third or fourth selections that are not received by the touchscreen 414 are received by the input mechanism 416. For example, in one embodiment, the first and second selections can be received by the touchscreen 414, and the third and fourth selections can be received by the input mechanism 416. This example is provided solely for purposes of illustration, as the first, second, third and fourth selections can be received by any combination of the touchscreen 414 and/or the input mechanism 416. Optionally, at least one of the first, second, third or fourth selections are stored in the computer-readable storage medium 402 so that a user need not re-enter his or her preferences into the pedicure machine 400 upon repeated use.
In response to the receipt of the first, second, third and fourth selections from the touchscreen 414 and/or the input mechanism 416, the processor 404 activates at least one of an actuator 406, a motor, or a hydraulic piston to raise the footrest 408. Then, the processor 404 initiates a performance of an automated pedicure on the user's nails using the first, second, third and fourth selections. In some embodiments, the automated pedicure includes a filing of the user's nails by a nail filing drill 418, and an application of zero or more pre-shaped nail tips stored in a nail tip storage 424 by a pre-shaped nail tip applicator 422. Optionally nail polish is applied by a nail brush 428 and/or a sprayer to at least one of the user's nails, and/or to one or more of the pre-shaped nail tips. Optionally, a nail decor applicator 426 applies one or more decorations or one or more items of nail art to the user's nails. After the automated pedicure is complete, the processor 404 initiates a lowering of the footrest 408 using at least one of the actuator 406, the hydraulic piston, or the motor.
FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of a beauty machine 500 for performing manicures and/or pedicures, according to example embodiments. In some embodiments, the beauty machine 500 includes a window 502 that allows the user to view one or more tools and/or mechanisms used to perform the automated manicure or pedicure, such as the nail filing drill 218 (FIG. 2 ), one or more bits used by the nail filing drill, the nail polishing drill 220, the pre-shaped nail tip applicator 222, the nail tip storage 224 for storing one or more pre-cut or pre-shaped nail tips, the optional nail decor applicator 226, the nail brush 228, and/or the nail scanner 212.
In some embodiments, the input mechanism 216, 416 (FIGS. 2 and 4 ) includes one or more pushbuttons, such as a stop button 506 (FIG. 5 ), a start button 508, and a pause button 510. In some embodiments, the beauty machine 500 includes a WiFi, Bluetooth and USB transceiver 504. Optionally, the WiFi, Bluetooth and USB transceiver 504 may be coupled to one or more speakers, to a smartphone, and/or to a computer. The WiFi, Bluetooth and USB transceiver 504 is operatively coupled to the processor 204 (FIG. 2 ), and/or the processor 404 (FIG. 4 ).
In some embodiments, a plurality of different model editions or versions of the beauty machine 500 may be offered to service a variety of customer and business owners in the beauty industry. In some embodiments, these versions may include a Basic version of the beauty machine 500, a Premiere version of the beauty machine 500, a Business version of the beauty machine 500, and a School version of the beauty machine 500. Potential customers or businesses who would purchase the beauty machine 500 may include:
Customers (Basic and Premier model editions)
Nail Salons or Nail Technician schools
Hair and beauty salons
Esthetician business
Make-up artist
Cosmetic or beauty schools
Cruises and Spa's
Independent contractors in the beauty industry
Ultra-Beauty
Sam nail supply
Walmart®
Amazon®, e-Bay®, or Etsy®
Target®
HSN®
K-Mart®, Montgomery Wards®, Fingerhut®, or any online store that sells beauty products.
Wholesalers
QVC®
CVS® or Walgreens®
Potential contracts with name brand nail polish and make-up companies for brands.
In some embodiments, the beauty machine 500 comes in different model editions that service kids 5+, teenagers, and adults. NOTE: children under 9 years of age should be supervised by adults when using the beauty machine.
The Basic model of the beauty machine 500: Is for users/customers who prefer a simple look without nail art design. The user/customer can use the basic model edition which offers simple nail designs such as a basic nail polish or air brush design, press on nails, and nail sticker design. The user/customer can choose acrylic or gel powder, and pre-cut nail tips.
The Premier model of the beauty machine 500: This model can do everything the basic model can offer but more. This model can do basic and nail art complex designs. This model allows the user/customer to have a variety of nail art options that fits the user/customer's style.
The Business model of the beauty machine 500: This model is designed for the beauty industry for nail salon owners, beauty and barber salons, make-up artist, and estheticians to help increase business revenue.
The School Model of the beauty machine 500: This model is designed for users/customers who are interested in becoming nail technicians and would like to enhance their skills in learning how to do nail art design that ranges from simple to complex nail designs. This model is also for users/customers who are interested in learning how to do simple designs or nail art designs as a hobby and for personal use.
The beauty machine 500 is design to provide nail services trending on the market. The beauty machine can offer the customer simple to the latest nail art designs but done at a much faster rate in the convenience of the user's/customer's home. The beauty machine provides simple to complex nail design bases depending on which model or version the user/customer may purchase. The beauty machine will be able to provide virtually any nail service which includes any manicure.
In some embodiments, the beauty machine 500 performs trimming, shaping, filing, and buffing of nails, while addressing cuticles, which can include trimming and a cuticle oil treatment, and a hand massage. The application of nail polish at the end is optional.
In some embodiments, one or more of the following features may be offered by the beauty machine 500:
Gel and acrylic powder
Pedicure
Full-set manicure
Acrylic fill dip pow
Gel-polish
Hard gels and pedicures
Liquid nail polish for gel and regular nails
French
Shellac
Soak off gels
Gel fill (hard gels)
Art glitter, sequins, and 3-D laser
The beauty machine 500 basic model edition is designed for users/customers who prefer a simpler, all natural-look. The nail beauty machine is perfect for kids, adults, teenagers, and people on the go. The beauty machine is designed to allow customers to get their nails done in the comfort of their home. The beauty machine is prefect for users/customers who are not able to go to the nail salon to get their nails done, and also for users/customers who do not want to wait at a nail salon to get their nails done by a nail technician. The basic model allows the user/customer to select their own personal designs or styles and can find inspiration from the internet, Pinterest®, nail design books, or custom made designs to upload the picture into the machine with the use of the WiFi, Bluetooth and USB transceiver 504 port to enable downloading onto the beauty machine 500.
In some embodiments, a website associated with the beauty machine 500 will allow the user/customer to select different designs from a nail gallery or a nail design pamphlet that will come with the beauty machine. The beauty machine is user friendly with easy step-by-step directions on how to operate the machine utilizing the Beauty touchscreen option to select pre-cut nail tips, acrylic and gel power and basic designs of the customer's choice. In some embodiments, the beauty machine 500 has Wi-Fi hook-up and the user/customer can listen to music while getting their nails done. The beauty machine is convenient and perfect for users/customers to keep their nails done anytime and anywhere.
The beauty machine 500 premier model edition can do everything the basic model edition can do but more. The premier model is designed for a user/customer to get their nails done in the comfort of their own home. The user/customer has the option to choose basic designs or nail art designs which allow the user/customer to have a larger selection of nail design compared to the basic version. In some embodiments, the premier model can do everything that the basic model can do and more. The user/customer can have the option to select from an online Internet website gallery in which the user/customer will find nail art designs, custom designs, or find inspiration from a nail art design books, internet, or Pinterest® in which the user/customer can upload the designs using the WiFi, Bluetooth and USB transceiver 504 port to connect a USB cord from their computer or smartphone.
In some embodiments, the premier model edition of the beauty machine 500 is for users/customers who enjoy different nail art designs for an everyday look or special occasion. The premier model has touchscreen capability which allows the user/customer to listen to music or watch TV, such as Netflix® while getting their nails done. The beauty machine is convenient and perfect for users/customers to keep their nails done anytime and anywhere. NOTE: The premier edition model is recommended only for adults and teenagers. Children under the age of 9 must have adult supervision.
The beauty machine 500 business model edition is designed for business owners to increase their revenue. The business model beauty machine includes the basic and premier model nail designs and more. The business owner has the capabilities to upload their own designs into the machine utilizing the USB cord to download designs into the beauty machine 500 for customers to have additional selection of nail art designs to choose from. The beauty machine business edition is perfect for the beauty industry overall, and for nail salon owners, beauty and barber salons, make-up artists, and estheticians to help increase business revenue. Nail salon owner do not have to worry about losing customers who are sitting and waiting to get their nails done because the beauty machine 500 would be able to render services to customer to avoid the wait or losing the customers who are not able to wait to get their nails done. The customer can choose from a variety of selection from the online Internet website gallery or select the nail design within the nail salon to be uploaded onto the beauty machine 500. This business model would increase the revenue for those who work in the beauty industry. The beauty machine 500 is a must have product for business owner which would help increase business to increase revenue at a much faster pace.
The beauty machine 500 school model is designed for users/customers who are interested in becoming nail technician or would like to learn how to do nails art design as a hobby. The school model can show the user/customer step-by-step instructions on how to do basic and nail art designs using a mannequin hand for practice. The school edition model is perfect for users/customers who are interested in learning how to do basic and nail art designs to enhance their training and skills for the beauty industry. The school edition model comes with a variety of simple to complex designs to prepare nail technician on how to craft their design to perfection to become a highly skilled nail technician. The school model is perfect for users/customers who are interested in learning about nails designs and enhancing their skills to be ready for working the nail industry.
According to some embodiments, one or more of the following items are included in the beauty machine 500:
Nail scanner (takes measurement of the hand/nails.)
Nail drill
Nail Filer
Nail brush
Polish drill
Nail tips (pre-cut/shape)
Nail airbrush
Stencils, stickers, and nail strips
Voice recognition
Speaker
USB
Nail Dryer
Start/Pause/Stop button
Feature: Turn on and off
Delete feature: Delete images from the beauty machine
Measurement feature: the beauty machine measures the width of the customer nails for children five years and older, women, and men.
Nail shapes: round, square, rounded square, oval, squoval, ballerina, almond, stiletto, coffin, mountain peak, flare, edge, arrow head, wide, and lipstick shape.
Save feature—which save the nail designs in the machine, app, and gallery on the customer account.
Security feature: protect the machine from being used without the owner.
Guest feature: for customers who use their friend machine.
Camera feature: allows the customer to take pictures of their nails to save in the picture gallery.
Pre-set feature: allows the customer to pre-set a design in advance using the touchscreen, app, or website account when the customer is ready to get their nails done for (premier and business model only).
Gallery feature: will show case the customer nail designs selected under the customer history account.
? (Question Mark Icon feature): If the customer has a question they can click on the question mark icon feature for an explanation. The customer has the option to go to the website, app, or use the beauty machine to review the answer prior to moving on to the next step.
NOTE: In some embodiments, the beauty machine 500 can determine the best shape for the user/customer that mimics the shape of the cuticles recommended by the beauty machine. But the user/customer still has the option to select the nail shape.
Important Disclaimer: The beauty machine 500 is for use by users/customers who do not have any medical condition with their nails or toes. If a customer suffers from any medical condition, they must consult with a doctor to find out if the beauty machine is safe for them to use prior to purchase. The beauty machine 500 is only suited for customers who fit the criteria to be able to use the product safely.
In some embodiments, the user/customer may watch a several-minutes-long tutorial on how to use the beauty machine 500. The beauty machine allows the user/customer to select a design from the internet, nail art books, Pinterest®, magazines to upload from the computer or phone onto the beauty machine. The user/customer may find inspiration for design by category such as, holiday's designs, weddings, birthday, engagements, special occasions, custom made designs, Valentine Day, Easter, or basic design for work or school. The category of design is endless and the user/customer would have a variety of designs to choose from base on the user/customer preference. In some embodiments, the user/customer is responsible to entering the nail design and selecting the nail polish color based on their personal preferences.
In some embodiments, the beauty machine has an optional built in optical scanner that can scan and copy any design obtained from the internet, computer, book, or smartphone that the customer or user wants to upload onto the beauty machine. The beauty machine takes measurements of the customer's/user's hands and measurements of the width of the nails to determine the nail tip selection to place on the customer's/user's nails, and/or the customer/user has the option to select the nail shape they desire. The customer/user can utilize the on-board WiFi, Bluetooth and USB transceiver 504 to transfer custom-made designs or nail art designs from the computer or smartphone onto the beauty machine 500. The customer/user can set up an optional account on the website associated with the beauty machine 500 to save their pictures of nail art selection and design in an online photo nail gallery. If the customer/user selects a design from the online photo nail gallery, the beauty machine 500 may let the customer/user know how long each design would take the beauty machine to complete, prior to the machine getting started. If the nail art design is a custom design, the beauty machine may analyze the design using the built in scanner method to determine how long it will take the machine to complete the design depending on the length of the nail selection and complexity of the design. The customer/user can create their own design to upload onto the beauty machine from their computer or smartphone. The customer/user can preset their design prior to using the beauty machine by selecting the design of choice, pre-cut nail tips style, acrylic or gel powder, and style in which the beauty machine will automatically save the design to be ready to begin when the customer/user is ready to start. The customer/user can schedule the day they would like the machine to design their nails by using the appointment feature either on the beauty machine, app, or website account for a special occasion when the customer is ready to get their nails done. NOTE: In some embodiments, the basic beauty machine model does not include complex nail art designs. The customers/users can only select simple designs such as, regular nail polish looks, nail stickers or airbrush designs.
In some embodiments, the customer/user may use the touchscreen feature on the beauty machine 500 to make their selection for their nail design as follows:
Step 1—the customer/user places their hand in the beauty machine 500 and the machine analyzes the customer's/user's hand and natural nails using the nail scanner 212 (FIG. 2 ) to determine the size of the nail tips to use for the customer/user.
NOTE: The beauty machine 500 measures the width of the customer's/user's nails before allowing the customer/user to move on to the next step. The nail lengths and widths can be measured in millimeters. The beauty machine 500 will then classify the nail lengths and the nail widths as extra small, small, medium, large/long, extra-long. The measurements will automatically be saved to the computer-readable storage medium 202 (FIG. 2 ) of the beauty machine 500 (FIG. 5 ) after the first use.
Step 2—the customer/user selects the pre-cut nail tips once the beauty machine 500 finishes analyzing the hand and nails.
Step 3—the customer/user selects either acrylic or gel powder.
Step 4—Last, the customer/user selects the nail design and nail polish color.
Step 5—The beauty machine 500 begins the automated manicure. (When the beauty machine is done filing the client's nails, the machine will automatically pause for the customer/user to wash the nail residue off their hands prior to starting the design.)
NOTE: In some embodiments, the beauty machine 500 basic model will disable complex nail art designs. The customer/user will have to select a new design when utilizing the basic model machine.
Once the customer/user has made all of their selections, the beauty machine 500 will advise the customer/user how long it will take for the beauty machine to complete the design. NOTE: In some embodiments, the beauty machine can hold any shape and size nail polish bottle on the market.
The customer/user has the option to listen to music from their phone or MP3 player or IPod® player using the WiFi, Bluetooth and USB transceiver 504 port, and/or connect using Wi-Fi to watch TV while the beauty machine 500 works on the user's/customer's nails.
The average timeframe and speed for the beauty machine 500 to complete a full-set of nails can range between 15-30 minutes or less depending on the nail length and nail design selections the user/customer chooses.
NOTE: In some embodiments, the user/customer is responsible for removing their own existing false nail tips (if any) prior to using the beauty machine 500. The beauty machine does not remove nail polish; therefore, the user/customer is responsible for removing their own nail polish prior to using the beauty machine 500. If necessary, the user/customer should consult with a nail salon for assistance in this regard.
FILL-INS Feature: If the user/customer needs a touch-up for their nails, the beauty machine 500 will scan the customer's nails to verify if the beauty machine can complete the fill-ins or not.
NAIL-TIP ISSUES, NAIL ERRORS OR LOST NAIL ISSUES: If the user's/customer's nail tip breaks off or the nail has fallen off, the beauty machine 500 will analyze the nail to verify if the nail could be fixed or replaced with a new nail while repeating the same nail design that was applied to the broken or fallen-off nail.
In some embodiments, the beauty machine 500 offers one or more of the following special features:
Touchscreen (all models)
Wi-Fi (all models)
Bluetooth (premier and business)
Watch TV (premier and business model only)
Voice recognition (premier and business model only)
Simple designs (basic and premier model)
Nail Art designs (premier and business model)
Adapter and USB (all models)
USB connect and Adapter (all models)
In some embodiments, the beauty machine 500 offers one or more of the following special accessories:
Beauty case/travel case
Beauty desk
Tray holder and supplies
Nail polish holder and Nail polish display and holder
In some embodiments, the beauty machine 500 is offered in one or more of the following colors:
Rose gold
Black (Black midnight)
White (snow white)
Red (ruby red)
Purple (purple plum)
Pink (pretty pink)
Navy blue
In some embodiments, the customer has the option to personalize the beauty machine 500 for an additional cost.
In some embodiments, the beauty machine 500 is offered with one or more of the following supplies and/or accessories:
Manicure tweezers
Nail art tape
Dotting tool
Thin tip brush
Glitter nail polish and remover pads
Matte top coat
Nail polish correcting pen
Glitter nail polish remover pads
Nail repair formula
Striping tape
Transfer foils
Striper brush
Loose glitter
Studs
Domed pearls
Nail stickers/wraps
Led nail lamp
Good quality staple shades
Nail polish of all colors (top and basecoat)
Clear top coat/lacquer
Nippers
Cuticle pushers
Table lamp
Nail filer and buffer
Nail drill and bits
Nail Disinfectant
Acrylic and gel powder
Hard gels
Nail dip powders
Nail polish remover/cotton balls
Isopropyl alcohol
Nail polish wall rack—accessory
Nail tips/glue (nails pre-cut)
Nail forms
Beauty table
Beauty tray—(accessory)
Beauty dust collector/vacuum cleaner
Nail art brush
Nail hand rest/cushion pillow
Nail file/nail block
Nail training hand or mannequin (for practice)
Depending on the edition model of the beauty machine 500 that the user/customer selects, this selection determines the nail supplies and/or accessories that come with the beauty machine.
In some embodiments, the beauty machine 500 is a pedicure machine that allows users/customers to enjoy getting their toes done in the comfort of their homes. The user/customer will no longer have to schedule an appointment at a nail salon or wait in a reception area for a nail technician to become available to get their toes done. The beauty machine 500 is easy to use and user-friendly. The customer has the option to select simple to complex designs or toenail art designs which allow the customer to make choices based on their discretion. The one or more pedicure model(s) of the beauty machine 500 may come with the necessary supplies to allow users/customers to start using the product immediately. The pedicure model(s) of the beauty machine 500 are perfect for people of all ages who enjoy maintaining and getting their toes done for a special occasion, a holiday, or a summer look. The beauty machine 500 can complete a pedicure in less than 30 minutes, which is ideal for those on the go. The beauty machine 500 is a must-have for customers and the beauty industry today.
Important Disclaimer: The Beauty Pedicure machine is intended for users/customers who do not have any medical condition with their toenails. If a customer suffers from any medical condition, they should consult with their doctor to find out if the pedicure model of the beauty machine 500 is safe to use prior to purchase. The beauty machine 500 is only suited for customers who fit the criteria to be able to use the product safely.
The user/customer may watch a several-minutes-long tutorial on how to use the pedicure version of the beauty machine 500. The beauty machine allows the customer to select a design from the internet, nail art books, Pinterest®, magazines, to upload the design from a computer or smartphone onto the beauty machine 500 via the WiFi, Bluetooth and USB transceiver 504. This WiFi, Bluetooth and USB transceiver 504 may interface with the processor 404 (FIG. 4 ), and/or the processor 204 (FIG. 2 ).
The user/customer can find inspiration for design by category, such as holiday designs, weddings, birthday, engagements, special occasions, custom-made designs, Valentines Day, Easter, or basic designs for work or school. The category of design is endless, and the user/customer is provided with a variety of designs to choose from, based on user/customer preferences. The user/customer can utilize a USB port of the WiFi, Bluetooth and USB transceiver 504 to transfer the custom made designs or nail art design from the computer or smartphone onto the beauty machine 500. Optionally, the user/customer can set up an account on an online Internet website to save their pictures of toenail art selection and design in the photo toenail gallery. If the user/customer selects a design from a beauty gallery of the online Internet website, the beauty machine 500 lets the customer know how long each design would take to complete, prior to getting started. If the toenail art design is a custom design, the beauty machine 500 will analyze the design using the built in scanner method to determine how long it will take the machine to complete the design depending on the length of the toenail selection and the complexity of the design. The user/customer will be able to create their own design to upload onto the beauty machine 500 from their computer or smartphone. The user/customer can preset their design a day (or hours or minutes) prior to using the beauty machine 500 by selecting the design of choice and style in which the beauty machine will automatically save the design to be ready to begin when the user/customer is ready to start. In some embodiments, the user/customer can schedule the day they would like the machine to design their toenails by using an appointment-setting feature on the beauty machine. In some embodiments, the appointment-setting feature is provided using a smartphone app, or a website account, to set an appointment for a special occasion when the customer is ready to get their nails done.
The user/customer uses the touchscreen 414 (FIG. 4 ) feature on the beauty machine 500 (FIG. 5 ) to make their selection for their toenail design.
Step 1—the user/customer places their foot in the beauty machine 500, and the machine analyzes the user's/customer's natural toenails using the nail scanner 412 (FIG. 4 ). (The measurement will automatically be saved to the computer-readable storage medium 402 on the beauty machine 500 (FIG. 5 ) after the first use.)
Step 2—The user/customer selects the design and toenail polish color.
Step 3—The beauty machine begins the pedicure.
Once the user/customer makes their selections, the beauty machine will advise the user/customer how long it will take for the machine to complete the design.
The user/customer has the option to listen to music from their phone or MP3 player or IPod® player using the WiFi, Bluetooth and USB transceiver 504, and/or connecting to the Wi-Fi while the beauty machine 500 works on the customer's toenails.
The average timeframe and speed for the beauty machine 500 to complete the toenail design can range between 15-30 minutes or less, depending on the toenail design the customer selects.
NOTE: In some embodiments, the customer will be responsible for removing old toenail polish. If necessary, please consult with a nail salon for assistance in this regard.
FILL-INS Feature: If the customer needs a touch-up for their toe nails, the beauty machine 500 scans the user's/customer's toenails to verify if the design could be fixed or if the customer would have to start over with a new design.
In some embodiments, the pedicure version of the beauty machine 500 includes one or more of the following supplies/features:
Foot files (keeps the client's foot soft and smooth.)
Callous removers (calloused feet special care tool.)
Cuticle nippers (needed for a clean-looking pedicure.)
Foot scrubs (high quality foot scrub to enhance the pedicure experience by exfoliating and revitalizing the skin, feet, and legs.)
Nail files (for shaping toenail prior to polishing.)
Lotion (to soften the skin and use for foot and leg massage. Or the customer has the option to use their own lotion.)
Cuticle nail pusher (keep cuticles under control.)
Nail buffer (smooth out nails before polishing.)
Cotton towels (for customers pedicure needs.)
Toe ropes (keep the customer's toenails separated so the polish will not stick two adjacent nails together or get smudged.)
Stencils, stickers, and toenail strips
Pedicure remote control (to pre-set the machine)
Save feature: saves the nail designs in the computer-readable storage medium of the beauty machine 500, and/or in an app, and/or in an online beauty gallery on a customer's account.
Guest feature: for customers who use their friend's beauty machine.
Voice recognition
Speaker
USB connection
Start/Pause/Stop button
Turn on and off feature
Foot petal for the feet to rest on for the beauty machine to work on the toenails.
Delete feature: delete images from the beauty machine.
Pre-set feature: allows the customer to pre-set a design in advance using the beauty machine 500 touchscreen, app, or website account when the customer is ready to get their nails done (premier and business models only).
Gallery feature: will showcase the customer nail designs selected under a customer's account history.
In some embodiments, the pedicure version of the beauty machine 500 is available in one or more of the following colors:
Rose gold
Black (Black midnight)
White (snow white)
Red (ruby red)
Purple (purple plum)
Pink (pretty pink)
Navy blue
The customer has the option to personalize the beauty machine 500 for an additional cost.
The flow diagrams depicted herein, such as FIGS. 1 and 3 , are separate examples but may be the same or different embodiments. Any of the operations in one flow diagram could be adopted and shared with another flow diagram. No example operation is intended to limit the subject matter of any embodiment or corresponding claim.
It is important to note that all the flow diagrams and corresponding processes derived from FIGS. 1 and 3 may be part of a same process or may share sub-processes with one another, thus making the diagrams combinable into a single preferred embodiment that does not require any one specific operation but which performs certain operations from one example process and from one or more additional processes. All the example processes are related to the same physical system and can be used separately or interchangeably.
The above embodiments may be implemented in hardware, in a computer program executed by a processor, in firmware, or in a combination of the above. A computer program may be embodied on a computer-readable medium, such as a storage medium. For example, a computer program may reside in random access memory (“RAM”), flash memory, read-only memory (“ROM”), erasable programmable read-only memory (“EPROM”), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (“EEPROM”), registers, hard disk, a removable disk, a compact disk read-only memory (“CD-ROM”), or any other form of storage medium known in the art.
An exemplary storage medium may be coupled to the processor such that the processor may read information from, and write information to, the storage medium. In the alternative, the storage medium may be integral to the processor. The processor and the storage medium may reside in an application-specific integrated circuit (“ASIC”). In the alternative, the processor and the storage medium may reside as discrete components.
As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, aspects of the present application may be embodied as a system, method, or computer program product. Accordingly, aspects of the present application may take the form of an entirely hardware embodiment, an entirely software embodiment (including firmware, resident software, micro-code, etc.) or an embodiment combining software and hardware aspects that may all generally be referred to herein as a “circuit,” “module”, “machine”, or “system.” Furthermore, aspects of the present application may take the form of a computer program product embodied in one or more computer readable medium(s) having computer readable program code embodied thereon.
Although an exemplary embodiment of at least one of a machine, method, and non-transitory computer readable medium have been illustrated in the accompanied drawings and described in the foregoing detailed description, it will be understood that the application is not limited to the embodiments disclosed, but is capable of numerous rearrangements, modifications, and substitutions as set forth and defined by the following claims. For example, the capabilities of the system of the various figures can be performed by one or more of the modules, blocks or components described herein or in a distributed architecture and may include a transmitter, receiver or pair of both. For example, all or part of the functionality performed by the individual modules, may be performed by one or more of these modules. Further, the functionality described herein may be performed at various times and in relation to various events, internal or external to the modules or components. Also, the information sent between various modules can be sent between the modules via at least one of: a data network, the Internet, a voice network, an Internet Protocol network, a wireless device, a wired device and/or via plurality of protocols. Also, the messages sent or received by any of the modules may be sent or received directly and/or via one or more of the other modules.
One skilled in the art will appreciate that a “system” could be embodied as a personal computer, a server, a console, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a cell phone, a tablet computing device, a smartphone or any other suitable computing device, or combination of devices. Presenting the above-described functions as being performed by a “system” is not intended to limit the scope of the present application in any way but is intended to provide one example of many embodiments. Indeed, methods, systems and apparatuses disclosed herein may be implemented in localized and distributed forms consistent with computing technology.
It should be noted that some of the system features described in this specification have been presented as modules, in order to more particularly emphasize their implementation independence. For example, a module may be implemented as a hardware circuit comprising custom very large-scale integration (VLSI) circuits or gate arrays, off-the-shelf semiconductors such as logic chips, transistors, or other discrete components. A module may also be implemented in programmable hardware devices such as field programmable gate arrays, programmable array logic, programmable logic devices, graphics processing units, or the like.
A module may also be at least partially implemented in software for execution by various types of processors. An identified unit of executable code may, for instance, comprise one or more physical or logical blocks of computer instructions that may, for instance, be organized as an object, procedure, or function. Nevertheless, the executables of an identified module need not be physically located together but may comprise disparate instructions stored in different locations that when joined logically together, comprise the module and achieve the stated purpose for the module. Further, modules may be stored on a computer-readable medium, which may be, for instance, a hard disk drive, flash device, random access memory (RAM), tape, or any other such medium used to store data.
Indeed, a module of executable code could be a single instruction, or many instructions, and may even be distributed over several different code segments, among different programs, and across several memory devices. Similarly, operational data may be identified and illustrated herein within modules and may be embodied in any suitable form and organized within any suitable type of data structure. The operational data may be collected as a single data set or may be distributed over different locations including over different storage devices, and may exist, at least partially, merely as electronic signals on a system or network.
It will be readily understood that the components of the application, as generally described and illustrated in the figures herein, may be arranged and designed in a wide variety of different configurations. Thus, the detailed description of the embodiments is not intended to limit the scope of the application as claimed but is merely representative of selected embodiments of the application.
One having ordinary skill in the art will readily understand that the above may be practiced with steps in a different order, and/or with hardware elements in configurations that are different than those which are disclosed. Therefore, although the application has been described based upon these preferred embodiments, it would be apparent to those of skill in the art that certain modifications, variations, and alternative constructions would be apparent.
While preferred embodiments of the present application have been described, it is to be understood that the embodiments described are illustrative only and the scope of the application is to be defined solely by the appended claims when considered with a full range of equivalents and modifications (e.g., protocols, hardware devices, software platforms etc.) thereto.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A method, comprising:

detecting a presence of a hand resting on a hand rest;

in response to detecting the presence of the hand, determining a nail shape and a nail size of the hand;

receiving a user input specifying at least one manicure preference to be applied to one or more nails of the hand;

in response to receiving the user input, activating at least one of an actuator, a motor or a hydraulic piston to raise the hand rest;

performing an automated manicure of one or more nails on the hand using the determined nail shape, the determined nail size, and the user input; and

in response to a completion of the automated manicure, activating at least one of the actuator, the motor, or the hydraulic piston to lower the hand rest.

2. The method of claim 1 wherein receiving the user input comprises receiving one or more of: a first selection specifying a nail style, a second selection specifying a nail length, a third selection specifying a preference for one of gel nails, acrylic nails, or natural nails, and a fourth selection specifying a nail color.

3. The method of claim 2, further comprising storing one or more of the first, second, third or fourth selections in a computer-readable storage medium.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein performing the automated manicure includes a filing of the one or more nails on the hand.

5. The method of claim 4, wherein performing the automated manicure further includes applying one or more pre-shaped nail tips to the one or more nails on the hand.

6. The method of claim 5, wherein performing the automated manicure further includes applying a nail polish to the one or more nails on the hand, and/or to the one or more pre-shaped nail tips.

7. A manicure machine including:

a non-transitory computer-readable memory communicably coupled to a processor;

an object detector configured for detecting a presence of a hand resting on a hand rest, wherein the object detector is operatively coupled to the processor;

a nail scanner, operatively coupled to the object detector such that, in response to the object detector detecting the presence of the hand, the nail scanner determines a nail shape and a nail size of the hand;

an input mechanism configured for receiving a user input specifying at least one manicure preference to be applied to one or more nails of the hand, wherein the input mechanism is operatively coupled to the processor;

at least one of an actuator, a motor or a hydraulic piston to raise the hand rest in response to the input mechanism receiving the user input; wherein the actuator, motor, and/or hydraulic piston is operatively coupled to the processor;

a nail styling mechanism for performing an automated manicure of one or more nails on the hand using the determined nail shape, the determined nail size, and the user input; wherein the nail styling mechanism is operatively coupled to the processor; and wherein, in response to a completion of the automated manicure, the processor activates at least one of the actuator, the motor, or the hydraulic piston to lower the hand rest.

8. The manicure machine of claim 7, wherein the input mechanism is further configured for receiving one or more of: a first selection specifying a nail style, a second selection specifying a nail length, a third selection specifying a preference for one of gel nails, acrylic nails, or natural nails, and a fourth selection specifying a nail color.

9. The manicure machine of claim 8, wherein the processor is further configured for storing one or more of the first, second, third or fourth selections in the non-transitory computer-readable memory.

10. The manicure machine of claim 7, wherein the nail styling mechanism comprises a nail filing drill configured for filing one or more nails of the hand.

11. The manicure machine of claim 7, wherein the nail styling mechanism comprises a pre-shaped nail tip applicator configured for applying one or more pre-shaped nail tips to the one or more nails on the hand.

12. The manicure machine of claim 7, wherein the nail styling mechanism comprises a nail polish applicator configured for applying nail polish to the one or more nails on the hand, and/or to the one or more pre-shaped nail tips.

13. A method, comprising:

detecting a presence of a foot resting on a footrest;

in response to detecting the presence of the foot, determining a nail shape and a nail size of the foot;

receiving a user input specifying at least one pedicure preference to be applied to one or more nails of the foot;

in response to receiving the user input, activating at least one of an actuator, a motor or a hydraulic piston to raise the footrest;

performing an automated pedicure of one or more nails on the foot using the determined nail shape, the determined nail size, and the user input; and

in response to a completion of the automated pedicure, activating at least one of the actuator, the motor, or the hydraulic piston to lower the footrest.

14. The method of claim 13 wherein receiving the user input comprises receiving one or more of: a first selection specifying a nail style, a second selection specifying a nail length, a third selection specifying a preference for one of gel nails, acrylic nails, or natural nails, and a fourth selection specifying a nail color.

15. The method of claim 14, further comprising storing one or more of the first, second, third or fourth selections in a computer-readable storage medium.

16. The method of claim 13, wherein performing the automated pedicure includes a filing of the one or more nails on the foot.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein performing the automated pedicure further includes applying one or more pre-shaped nail tips to the one or more nails on the foot.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein performing the automated pedicure further includes applying a nail polish to the one or more nails on the foot, and/or to the one or more pre-shaped nail tips.

19. A pedicure machine including:

a non-transitory computer-readable memory communicably coupled to a processor;

an object detector configured for detecting a presence of a foot resting on a footrest, wherein the object detector is operatively coupled to the processor;

a nail scanner, operatively coupled to the object detector such that, in response to the object detector detecting the presence of the foot, the nail scanner determines a nail shape and a nail size of the foot;

an input mechanism configured for receiving a user input specifying at least one pedicure preference to be applied to one or more nails of the foot, wherein the input mechanism is operatively coupled to the processor;

at least one of an actuator, a motor or a hydraulic piston to raise the foot rest in response to the input mechanism receiving the user input; wherein the actuator, motor, and/or hydraulic piston is operatively coupled to the processor;

a nail styling mechanism for performing an automated pedicure of one or more nails of the foot using the determined nail shape, the determined nail size, and the user input; wherein the nail styling mechanism is operatively coupled to the processor; and wherein, in response to a completion of the automated pedicure, the processor activates at least one of the actuator, the motor, or the hydraulic piston to lower the footrest.

20. The pedicure machine of claim 19, wherein the input mechanism is further configured for receiving one or more of: a first selection specifying a nail style, a second selection specifying a nail length, a third selection specifying a preference for one of gel nails, acrylic nails, or natural nails, and a fourth selection specifying a nail color.

21. The pedicure machine of claim 20, wherein the processor is further configured for storing one or more of the first, second, third or fourth selections in the non-transitory computer-readable memory.

22. The pedicure machine of claim 19, wherein the nail styling mechanism comprises a nail filing drill configured for filing the one or more nails of the foot.

23. The pedicure machine of claim 19, wherein the nail styling mechanism comprises a pre-shaped nail tip applicator configured for applying one or more pre-shaped nail tips to the one or more nails of the foot.

24. The pedicure machine of claim 19, wherein the nail styling mechanism comprises a nail polish applicator configured for applying nail polish to the one or more nails of the foot, and/or to the one or more pre-shaped nail tips.