阅读说明：本技术 用于测量皮肤特性和增强剃刮体验的设备和方法 (Apparatus and method for measuring skin characteristics and enhancing shaving experience ) 是由 V·帕纳格特普罗 A·帕努 P·莫斯塔卡斯 G·皮里斯 C·加拉尼斯 G·古德利斯 G· 于 2018-06-01 设计创作，主要内容包括：一种剃刮系统(10)可以包括手柄(14)。所述剃刮系统(10)还可以包括包含至少一个刀片(34)的刀片架(16),所述刀片架(16)可释放地联接到所述手柄(14)。所述剃刮系统(10)可以另外包括联接到所述手柄(14)和所述刀片架(16)中的至少一个的至少一个传感器(38、47、48、56、62)。所述至少一个传感器(38、47、48、56、62)可以被配置成测量指示至少一种皮肤特性的至少一种皮肤属性。所述剃刮系统(10)还可以包括处理器(46),所述处理器(46)被配置成从所述传感器(38、47、48、56、62)接收测量数据并且基于所接收的测量数据来识别所述至少一种皮肤特性和量化所述至少一种皮肤特性中的至少一个。所述剃刮系统(10)还可以包括显示器(30),所述显示器(30)被配置成基于来自所述处理器(46)的皮肤特性数据向用户传达消息。(A shaving system (10) may include a handle (14). The shaving system (10) may also include a cartridge (16) including at least one blade (34), the cartridge (16) being releasably coupled to the handle (14). The shaving system (10) may additionally include at least one sensor (38, 47, 48, 56, 62) coupled to at least one of the handle (14) and the cartridge (16). The at least one sensor (38, 47, 48, 56, 62) may be configured to measure at least one skin property indicative of at least one skin characteristic. The shaving system (10) may further include a processor (46), the processor (46) being configured to receive measurement data from the sensors (38, 47, 48, 56, 62) and to identify and quantify at least one of the at least one skin characteristic based on the received measurement data. The shaving system (10) may also include a display (30), the display (30) being configured to communicate a message to a user based on skin characteristic data from the processor (46).)

1. A shaving system (10) comprising:

a handle (14);

a cartridge (16) including at least one blade (34), the cartridge (16) being releasably coupled to the handle (14);

at least one sensor (38, 47, 48, 56, 62) coupled to at least one of the handle (14) and the cartridge (16), wherein the at least one sensor (38, 47, 48, 56, 62) is configured to measure at least one skin property indicative of at least one skin characteristic;

a processor (46) configured to receive measurement data from the sensors (38, 47, 48, 56, 62) and to identify and quantify at least one of the at least one skin characteristic based on the received measurement data; and

a display (30) configured to communicate a message to a user based on skin characteristic data from the processor (46).

2. The shaving system (10) according to claim 1 wherein the at least one sensor (38, 47, 48, 56, 62) comprises one or more of: skin conductance sensors, skin elasticity sensors, skin temperature sensors, skin color sensors, blood pressure sensors, and blood concentration sensors.

3. The shaving system (10) according to any one of claims 1 and 2 wherein the at least one sensor (38, 47, 48, 56, 62) comprises a detector (56) for detecting radiation from the direction of the skin.

4. The shaving system (10) according to claim 3 wherein the detector (56) is configured to detect infrared radiation emitted from the skin.

5. The shaving system (10) according to any one of claims 3 and 4 wherein the at least one sensor comprises a light emitter (54) for emitting radiation onto the skin.

6. The shaving system (10) according to any one of the preceding claims wherein at least one of the processor (46) and the display (30) is in the handle (14).

7. The shaving system (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 5 further comprising a user device (20) separate from the handle (14) and the cartridge (16), the user device (20) being a computing device, wherein at least one of the processor (46) and the display (30) is in the user device (20).

8. The shaving system (10) according to claim 1, wherein the at least one skin attribute comprises at least one of conductance, temperature, color, and elasticity.

9. The shaving system (10) according to claim 8 wherein the at least one skin attribute comprises conductance, and wherein the at least one sensor (38, 47, 48, 56, 62) is in the handle (14).

10. The shaving system (10) according to claim 8 wherein the at least one skin attribute comprises conductance, and wherein the at least one sensor (38, 47, 48, 56, 62) is in the cartridge (16).

11. The shaving system (10) according to claim 8 wherein the at least one skin attribute comprises at least one of temperature and color, and wherein the at least one sensor (38, 47, 48, 56, 62) is in the handle (14).

12. The shaving system (10) according to claim 8 wherein the at least one skin attribute comprises at least one of temperature and color, and wherein the at least one sensor (38, 47, 48, 56, 62) is in the cartridge (16).

13. The shaving system (10) according to claim 8 wherein the at least one skin attribute comprises elasticity, and wherein the at least one sensor (38, 47, 48, 56, 62) is in the handle (14).

14. The shaving system (10) according to claim 8 wherein the at least one skin attribute comprises elasticity, and wherein the at least one sensor (38, 47, 48, 56, 62) is in the cartridge (16).

15. The shaving system (10) according to any one of claims 8 to 14 wherein the at least one skin attribute comprises at least two of conductance, temperature, color and elasticity.

16. A shaving system (10) comprising:

a handle (14);

a cartridge (16) including at least one blade (34), the cartridge (16) being releasably coupled to the handle (14);

a conductance sensor (38) coupled to the cartridge (16), the conductance sensor (38) positioned at a surface of the cartridge (16), wherein the conductance sensor (38) is configured to measure a conductance of a portion of skin in contact with the conductance sensor (38);

a processor (46) configured to receive a measured conductance and classify the portion of the skin based on the measured conductance; and

a display (30) configured to convey a message to a user based on the classification of the portion of the skin.

17. The shaving system (10) of claim 16 wherein the conductivity sensor (38) includes at least one pair of electrodes (40, 42) at the surface of the cartridge (16).

18. The shaving system (10) of claim 17 wherein the pair of electrodes (40, 42) includes a first electrode (40) and a second electrode (42), and the conductance sensor (38) is configured to measure the conductance of the portion of the skin extending between the first electrode (40) and second electrode (42).

19. The shaving system (10) according to any one of the preceding claims wherein at least one of the processor (46) and the display (30) is in the handle (14).

20. The shaving system (10) according to any one of the preceding claims further comprising a base (18) for receiving at least one of the handle (14) and the cartridge (16), wherein the base (18) is removably attachable to the at least one of the handle (14) and the cartridge (16).

21. The shaving system (10) according to claim 20 wherein at least one of the processor (46) and the display (30) is in the base (18).

22. The shaving system (10) of claim 16 further comprising a user device (20) separate from the handle (14) and the cartridge (16), the user device (20) being a computing device, wherein at least one of the processor (46) and the display (30) is in the user device (20).

23. A shaving system (10) comprising:

a handle (14);

a cartridge (16) including at least one blade (34), the cartridge (16) coupled to the handle (14);

a conductance sensor (38) coupled to the cartridge (16), the conductance sensor (38) positioned at a surface of the cartridge (16), wherein the conductance sensor (38) is configured to measure a conductance of a portion of skin in contact with the conductance sensor (38);

a processor (46) configured to receive a measured conductance and compare the measured conductance to a predetermined conductance; and

a display (30) configured to communicate an alert to a user based on the comparison of the measured conductance to the predetermined conductance.

24. The shaving system (10) of claim 23 wherein the conductivity sensor (38) includes a plurality of electrodes (40, 42).

25. The shaving system (10) of claim 23 wherein the cartridge (16) comprises a frame supporting the at least one blade (34) and wherein the conductivity sensor (38) is positioned at a surface of the frame.

26. The shaving system (10) of claim 23 wherein the cartridge comprises a plurality of blades (34), and wherein the conductivity sensor (38) includes at least one of the plurality of blades (34).

27. A method of identifying skin characteristics of a user, the method comprising:

moving a cartridge (16) comprising at least one blade (34) into contact with the user's skin, the cartridge (16) coupled to a handle (14), wherein moving the cartridge (16) brings an electrically conductive sensor (38) on the cartridge (16) into contact with the user's skin;

measuring the conductance of the user's skin with the conductance sensor (38);

determining the user skin characteristic based on the measured conductance.

28. The method of claim 27, further comprising:

providing visual feedback to the user, wherein the visual feedback comprises recommending a product to the user based at least in part on the user skin characteristics.

29. A method of identifying skin irritation, the method comprising:

moving a cartridge (16) comprising at least one blade (34) into contact with the skin, the cartridge (16) being coupled to a handle (14), wherein moving the cartridge (16) brings at least one sensor on at least one of the cartridge (16) and the handle (14) into a range where the at least one sensor (38, 47, 48, 56, 62) is capable of measuring at least one characteristic of the skin;

measuring the at least one characteristic of the skin with the sensor (38, 47, 48, 56, 62); and

at least one of identifying and quantifying stimulation of the skin based on the measurement of the at least one characteristic.

30. The method of claim 29, wherein the at least one characteristic comprises one or more of skin color, skin temperature, blood pressure of the skin, and blood concentration in the skin.

31. A shaving razor system (12), said shaving razor system (12) comprising:

a handle (14);

a cartridge (16) configured to be coupled to a distal end of the handle (14),

wherein the handle (14) further comprises an opening (50) positioned on a proximal end of the handle (14).

32. The shaving razor system (12) of claim 31 wherein the cartridge (16) comprises an adjustable blade geometry.

33. The shaving razor system (12) of claim 31 wherein the opening (50) is operably coupled to a suction source (52).

34. The shaver system (12) according to claim 33, wherein the opening (50) further comprises a light source (54) and a light detector (56).

35. The shaver system according to claim 34, wherein the opening (50) is configured to be positioned on or near the skin, and negative pressure is applied to draw a portion of the skin into the opening (50).

36. A shaving razor system (12), said shaving razor system (12) comprising:

a handle body (14);

a cartridge (16) coupled to the handle body (14); and

a skin elasticity sensor (48).

37. The shaving razor system of claim 36 wherein the handle body (14) comprises a cartridge attachment portion; and is

Wherein a skin elasticity sensor (48) is positioned on a portion of the handle body (14) opposite the cartridge attachment portion.

38. The shaver system according to claim 37, wherein the skin elasticity sensor (48) comprises a suction source (52), a light source (54) and a light detector (56).

39. The shaver system according to claim 38, wherein the skin elasticity sensor (48) is configured to be positioned adjacent to a user's skin.

40. The shaver system according to claim 36, wherein the skin elasticity sensor (48) is configured to provide a blade geometry recommendation.

41. The shaving razor system of claim 36 wherein the skin elasticity sensor (48) comprises at least one spring (64) coupled to the cartridge (16).

Technical Field

Aspects of the present disclosure relate generally to shaving technology and, in particular, to shaving systems and related methods for measuring one or more characteristics of a user's skin to determine skin characteristics and/or skin elasticity and/or for measuring irritation to the skin resulting from shaving. Aspects of the present disclosure also relate generally to enhancing the shaving experience, and in particular to making recommendations to a user based on skin characteristic determinations, skin elasticity determinations, and/or determined stimulation levels.

Background

Shaving razors generally include a handle and a razor cartridge releasably attached to one end of the handle. The razor cartridge includes at least one blade for cutting hair. The user holds the handle and repeatedly moves one or more blades over an area of the body to be shaved to cut hairs on that area. Lubricating materials are commonly used to aid in moisturizing and protecting the user's skin during shaving. Inadequate or improper lubrication during shaving, improper blade type or angle, and/or improper technique can cause skin irritation and/or scratching and nicking.

In general, skin characteristics may vary from user to user, and even over different parts of the user's body. Different properties of skin may respond differently to various razor cartridge blade arrangements (e.g., blade angle or pitch). For example, certain skin characteristics with low elasticity may experience a comfortable shave using a razor cartridge having a first number of blades spaced apart by a first distance. Other skin characteristics with higher elasticity may experience a comfortable shave using razor cartridges with a greater number of blades spaced relatively closer together. Understanding this variability and being able to make recommendations based on the understanding may enhance the shaving experience of the user.

Drawings

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this disclosure, illustrate various exemplary embodiments and together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the disclosure.

Aspects of the present disclosure may be implemented in conjunction with the embodiments illustrated in the figures. The figures illustrate different aspects of the present disclosure, and where appropriate, reference numerals illustrating similar structures, components, materials and/or elements in different figures are labeled in a similar manner. It is understood that various combinations of structures, components, and/or elements, in addition to those specifically shown, are also contemplated and are within the scope of the present disclosure. Many aspects and embodiments are described herein. One of ordinary skill in the art will readily recognize that features of a particular aspect or embodiment may be used in combination with features of any or all of the other aspects or embodiments described in this disclosure.

Fig. 1 depicts an exemplary shaving system according to aspects of the present disclosure.

Fig. 2 depicts an exemplary shaver according to aspects of the present disclosure.

Fig. 3 depicts an exemplary razor cartridge according to aspects of the present disclosure.

Fig. 4 depicts an example sensor device in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

Fig. 5 depicts another example sensor device in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

Fig. 6 depicts a cross-sectional view illustrating various aspects of an example sensor device, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

Fig. 7 depicts a cross-sectional view illustrating various aspects of an example sensor device, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

Fig. 8 depicts components of an exemplary razor cartridge in an exploded state, according to aspects of the present disclosure.

Fig. 9 depicts a cross-sectional view of a portion of the exemplary razor cartridge of fig. 8, according to aspects of the present disclosure.

Fig. 10 depicts a flow diagram of a method for determining skin characteristics according to aspects of the present disclosure.

Fig. 11 depicts a flow diagram of a method for determining skin irritation in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

Fig. 12 is a flow chart of a method for determining skin elasticity according to aspects of the present disclosure.

Fig. 13 depicts a flow chart of a method for improving a shaving session in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

Fig. 14 depicts a flow diagram of aspects of a method for improving a shaving session in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

Detailed Description

Examples of the present disclosure include systems, devices, and methods that facilitate and improve the shaving experience. For example, aspects of the present disclosure may provide a user with the ability to measure, determine, or otherwise identify one or more characteristics of his or her skin, and select a razor cartridge having characteristics (e.g., blade geometry or configuration) that best fit the user's skin based at least on the identified one or more characteristics. More particularly, certain aspects of the present disclosure describe a shaver that includes one or more sensor devices for identifying skin conductance, skin elasticity, skin irritation, and/or other skin characteristics, and providing feedback and/or recommendations.

Both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the features claimed. As used herein, the terms "comprises," "comprising," or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not include only those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. Additionally, the term "exemplary" is used herein in the sense of "example" rather than "exemplary". It should be noted that all values disclosed or claimed herein (including all values, limits and ranges disclosed) can be within +/-10% of the disclosed value (unless a different variation is specified). Furthermore, in the claims, values, limits, and/or ranges mean values, limits, and/or ranges of +/-10%. The terms "proximal" and "distal" are used herein to refer to the relative positions of components of an exemplary device. As used herein, "proximal" refers to a location that is relatively closer to a portion of a device that is held or otherwise manipulated by a user. Conversely, "distal" refers to a portion of the device that is in contact with a portion of the body being shaved. In the context of the exemplary shaver described herein, the distal portion of the device contacts the skin being shaved, while the proximal portion of the device is distal to the skin being shaved and may be held by the user.

Reference will now be made in detail to exemplary aspects of the present disclosure that are described below and illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts.

Additional objects and advantages of the disclosed aspects will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the embodiments. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the claims.

Embodiments of the present disclosure may promote better shaving habits by creating more efficient and enjoyable shaving sessions for multiple users by identifying each user's skin characteristics, skin elasticity, and/or skin irritation caused by shaving and, in some cases, providing recommendations to the user based thereon.

The shaving system 10 is shown in fig. 1. The system 10 may identify skin characteristics, skin elasticity, and/or skin irritation, and facilitate and promote effective shaving techniques to improve the shaving experience via, for example, recommendations or other feedback provided to the user. Shaving system 10 may include a shaver 12 having a handle 14 and a razor cartridge 16 releasably attached thereto, a base 18, one or more user devices 20, and one or more merchant units 22. Each of the shaver 12, the base 18, the user device 20, and the merchant unit 22 may be in operative communication with one or more of the other components. The communication may need to be via a wired or wireless connection (e.g. via Bluetooth) ^TMLigation, AirDrop ^TMWired and/or wireless internet, and/or any other suitable connection 24) to transmit and receive data signals. It is also contemplated that one or more of the shaver 12, the base 18, the user device 20, and the merchant unit 22 may include one or more memory elements for storing information, one or more memory elements, and/or the likeA processor for processing information and one or more power sources, such as batteries and/or external plugs for sockets, to power the electronic components and devices therein.

As shown in fig. 2, the handle 14 may include a handle body 30 configured to be held by a user. The handle body 30 may include any suitable configuration to facilitate comfortable gripping by a user. For example, the handle body 30 may include a coating or covering such as a rubber covering, or may contain geometric features to prevent the handle 14 from sliding within the user's hand, particularly when the handle 14 may be wet. The handle 14 may also include a handle attachment interface 32 at one end of the handle body 28. The handle attachment interface 32 may be configured to selectively attach the cartridge 16 to the handle 14 and release the cartridge 16 from the handle 14 by any known mechanism for attaching a cartridge to a shaving handle and releasing a cartridge. In addition, the handle attachment interface 32 may be configured to be coupled to various types of razor cartridges 16. Although not shown, the handle 14 may additionally include one or more inputs, such as buttons or switches, to activate, deactivate, and/or regulate operation of one or more electronic components (such as one or more sensor devices as described below).

Cartridge 16 may include a variety of different blade geometries and/or configurations. For example, various blade geometries/configurations may include different numbers of razor blades 34. Various blade geometries and/or configurations may also include different spacing distances between adjacent razor blades. For example, the space between adjacent razor blades may be referred to as an inter-blade span (IBS). In one example, the cartridge 16 may include at least two razor blades 34, at least three razor blades 34, at least four razor blades 34, or at least five razor blades 34. The cartridge 16 may include a plurality of razor blades 34 having an IBS between about 0.4mm and about 1.8 mm. Any of the razor blades 34 in any of the above-discussed examples of the cartridge 16 may include different blade spacing, blade thickness, blade angle, and/or antifriction blade coatings. Cartridge 16 may include different types of razor blades 34, such as fixed blades, movable blades, bent blades, and the like. The cartridge 16 may include a moisturizing strip 35 and/or other comfort-enhancing features adjacent the razor blades 34. Although not shown, the cartridge 16 may also include a trimming blade. Cartridge 16 may also include a handle coupling portion (not shown) configured to releasably engage handle attachment interface 32 such that cartridge 16 may be selectively coupled to handle 14 and released from the handle 14.

The handle 14 of the shaver 12 may be removably coupled to the base 18 by, for example, a snap-fit, latch, or locking mechanism 26 (fig. 1), which snap-fit, latch, or locking mechanism 26 removably secures the handle 14 to the base 18 between uses, during travel, or during shipment from the manufacturer or manufacturer. Additionally or alternatively, any other portion of the shaving razor 12 may be removably coupled to the base 18, including the cartridge 16. Further, the base 18 may include a base or cradle 28, which may include wired or wireless charging devices (e.g., electrodes or induction coils) for any electronic components in the handle 14, cartridge 16, and/or any other portion of the shaver 12. The locking mechanism 26 may retain the shaver 12 in the bracket 28.

The base 18 may also include a display 30. The display 30 may be any suitable display including, but not limited to, a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) unit. The display 30 may visually or graphically display information to the user, such as user information, recommendations for the shaver 12, feedback or other educational or informational content, and/or shaving or other use recommendations. The displayed information may be based on data or information received from the shaver 12, or otherwise received from the user, e.g., via manual user input. Alternatively or additionally, the base 18 may audibly provide information to the user via the speaker.

The base 18 may solicit or otherwise request input or feedback from a user via, for example, the display 30. For example, information may be displayed in the form of prompts during, before, or after a shaving session, or in response to user input. Input 32 may allow a user to respond to prompts displayed on display 30. Although only one input 32 is depicted, the base 18 may include more than one input 32. The input 32 may be touch sensitive and/or may include voice activated technology so that a user may speak commands to the base 18.

In one aspect, any or all of the features discussed above with respect to the base 18 may be incorporated into one or both of the handle 14 or the user device 20. For example, although not shown, the handle 14 may additionally include a display and/or user input buttons or switches. In some aspects, all of the functionality provided by the base 18 may be incorporated into the shaver 12, for example, into the handle 14, and the base 18 may be omitted entirely. In such aspects, the shaver 12 may be configured to send information directly to the user device 20 and receive the information from the user device 20.

Although not shown, the base 18 may additionally include a transceiver configured to transmit and/or receive data or other signals to and/or from the shaver 12, the user device 20, and/or the merchant unit 22. The transceiver may exchange electronic information with other elements via connection 24. Additionally, base 18 may include memory for storing information relating to shaving razor 12 (including, for example, information about any sensor devices therein), cartridge 16, razor blades 34, and/or user input information. The base 18 may include a power source or may be configured to couple to a household electrical outlet that provides between 110V-260V of electrical power.

The aforementioned elements of base 18 may be electronically connected such that received and/or processed information may be displayed and/or transmitted to user device 20 and/or merchant unit 22, and may also be stored or accessed via memory. In some aspects, the base 18 may include a wireless antenna charging connection such that when the shaver 12 is placed on the handle chassis 28, the base 18 may charge the electronic components in the shaver 12 (e.g., the electronic components in the handle 14 and/or cartridge 16). If the handle connection is wired, the base 18 may include a cable output at a particular voltage level suitable for recharging the batteries of the electronic components in the shaver 12. Alternatively, the base 18 may comprise a cavity (not shown) containing a charging pin (not shown) on which the shaver 12 may be placed so that the electronic elements may be recharged and/or an extension element (not shown).

According to further aspects, the base 18 may solicit or otherwise request input or feedback from a user via, for example, the display 30. For example, information may be displayed during, before, or after a shaving session, or in response to user input. One or more inputs 32 may allow a user to respond to prompts displayed on display 30, for example to confirm blade configuration or order operations. According to some aspects, one or more inputs 32 may be touch sensitive, such as buttons. However, according to other aspects, one or more of the inputs 32 may be replaced with voice-activated technology so that a user may speak commands to the base 18. Thus, the base 18 may also include a speaker and microphone to provide and receive voice instructions. The one or more inputs 32 may also allow the user to modify the information displayed on the display 30, for example, to enter user information, switch sets of information, change settings, reset a cartridge or blade configuration, or adjust the cartridge's order or other user preferences. According to further aspects, the display 30 may be touch sensitive such that a user may respond to prompts and/or modify information presented on the display 30 by touching the display 30. The one or more inputs 32 may also include a power switch to turn on and off the electronics of the base 18 (and/or the electronics of the shaver 12). In one aspect, one or more of the following sensor devices may be controlled via one or more inputs 32. In another aspect, the handle 14 may include similar inputs (not shown) for controlling one or more of the sensor devices.

One or more user devices 20 may include a smartphone, tablet, smart watch, computer, or other device that may run downloadable applications or applications accessed via the internet. The application may include, for example, a user interface for the system 10. The application may be configured to receive information from and transmit information to other portions of the system 10. An application may include one or more software elements to receive, process, and/or generate information. Any or all of the features associated with the user device 20 may be incorporated into one or both of the razors 12 of the base 18 (e.g., in the handle 14).

In one example, the mobile application may be configured to receive information from handle 14, cartridge 16, one or more sensor devices, base 18, and/or merchant unit 22 through a connection between user device 20 and other elements of system 10 or through a connection between user device 20 and the internet. The mobile application may also send information to merchant unit 22 to provide the merchant unit with user data, place orders, and the like. The mobile application may provide the same information and user interaction discussed above with respect to the display 30 on the base 18.

A close-up view of the shaver 12 is shown in fig. 2. Razor 12 includes handle 14 and razor cartridge 16, where cartridge 16 has one or more razor blades 34 for cutting hair. A close-up view of the cartridge 16 is shown in fig. 3, with closer views of the surface of the cartridge 16 shown in fig. 4 and 5. A close-up view of the proximal end of the handle 14 is shown in fig. 6 and 7. A partially exploded view of cartridge 16 is shown in fig. 8, and a close-up cross-sectional view of a portion of cartridge 16 is shown in fig. 9.

The shaver 12 may also comprise one or more sensor devices. The sensor device may include any suitable sensor now known or later developed to identify skin characteristics, skin elasticity, and/or skin irritation caused by shaving. Examples of sensor devices are described in detail in the following paragraphs. The shaver 12 may comprise only a single sensor device. Alternatively, the shaver 12 may comprise a plurality of sensor devices. For example, the shaver 12 may comprise a grid or other arrangement of sensor devices that may make multiple measurements simultaneously and/or by different means. One or more sensor devices may be disposed on any suitable surface of the shaver 12 (e.g., on the handle 14 and/or cartridge 16) that may be in contact with and/or face the user's skin during a shaving session. The measurements may be made by one or more sensor devices once before and/or during a shaving session, repeatedly at one or more time intervals during a shaving session, or continuously during a shaving session or even after a shaving session.

In one example, one or more sensor devices may be on cartridge 16 such that the sensor devices may be in contact with the user's skin (see, e.g., fig. 4 and 5). Additionally or alternatively, the one or more sensor devices may be one or within the handle 14 (see, e.g., fig. 6 and 7). Additionally or alternatively, one or more sensor devices may be housed within cartridge 16 (see, e.g., fig. 8 and 9). The shaver 12 may comprise any of the sensor devices, alone or in combination with other devices. The following paragraphs outline exemplary aspects of various forms of the sensor device. However, it should be understood that the aspects described with respect to a particular sensor device may also be applied to any of the other sensor devices.

According to aspects of the present disclosure, one or more of the sensor devices may include a conductivity sensor device 38 (fig. 4). In one example, the conductance sensor device 38 may be configured to measure the conductance of a portion of the user's skin when in contact with the conductance sensor device 38. The measured conductance of the portion of the user's skin may be an indicator of one or more physical characteristics of the portion of the user's skin, and thus, the user's skin characteristics may be identified based on the measured conductance. The conductance of the user's skin may be affected by a number of factors. For example, the skin is composed of different layers having different properties from person to person. When an external current is applied to the skin, the skin can act like a grid built up of resistors and capacitors. Tissue, blood and interstitial fluid in the skin may have different electrical conductances, depending on their ion concentrations, and may function like a variable resistor. Cell boundaries formed by membranes in the skin may have more capacitor-like properties. The characteristics of these and other skin features may define the conductance of the skin, and the quality of those features may be different for different users. In some aspects, contemplated external currents may be applied via the conductivity sensor device 38 (e.g., electrodes described below) or via one or more of the blades 34. For example, the electrodes described below may be disposed on a single blade 34, or alternatively, a pair of electrodes may be disposed on a pair of blades 34 (with one electrode on each of the blades 34). It is also contemplated that the blade 34 itself may be an electrode.

Aspects of an exemplary skin conductance sensor apparatus 38 will now be described. In one example, the conductivity sensor device 38 may be on the cartridge 16 (e.g., at the area enclosed by the dashed circle in fig. 3) and may include a pair of electrodes 39 including a first electrode 40 and a second electrode 42 (see fig. 4). The first electrode 40 and the second electrode 42, which may be in contact with the user's skin during use of the shaver 12, may be mounted on or embedded within a surface of the cartridge 16. For example, the first electrode 40 and the second electrode 42 may be positioned around the periphery of the cartridge 16 at or near the area of the cartridge 16 containing the blade 34. The first electrode 40 and the second electrode 42 may be on opposite sides of the periphery. Alternatively, the first electrode 40 and the second electrode 42 may be on the same side of the periphery, but sufficiently separated so that current flowing between the first electrode 40 and the second electrode 42 must pass through the skin of the user. For example, one or more of the electrodes described may be positioned on one or more clips 44 that hold the blade 34 on the cartridge 16. The first electrode 40 and the second electrode 42 may protrude from portions of the surface of the cartridge 16 on which they are located. Alternatively, the first and second electrodes 40, 42 may be flush with the portion of the surface of the cartridge 16 on which they are located. Still alternatively, the first electrode 40 and the second electrode 42 may be recessed from the portion of the surface of the cartridge 16 on which they are located so that they may contact the user's skin when a sufficient amount of pressure is applied to the user's skin by the cartridge 16. Alternatively, the first electrode 40 and the second electrode 42 may be on or formed by one or more of the blades 34.

The shaver 12 may comprise only a single conductivity sensor device. Alternatively, the shaver 12 may comprise a plurality of conductivity sensors. For example, the shaving razor 12 may include a grid of electrode pairs that may be positioned around the periphery of the cartridge 16 to make multiple conductance measurements simultaneously.

Additional aspects of one of the conductivity sensor devices 38 are described below. It should be understood that each of the conductivity sensor devices 38 on the cartridge 16 may be the same as or similar to the conductivity sensor devices 38. The conductivity sensor device 38 may be electrically coupled to a power source, such as an internal battery, in the handle 14 via one or more conductive wires and/or contacts. In one aspect, an alternating voltage may be applied across the first electrode 40 and the second electrode 42, and the conductivity sensor arrangement 38 may measure the resistance of a portion of the user's skin between the first electrode 40 and the second electrode 42. The resistance may provide an indication of the physical composition of the user's skin. Because the conductance is the inverse of the resistance, the conductance of the user's skin may be determined based on the resistance. In some aspects, the conductance measurement may be taken once before and/or during a shaving session, repeatedly at one or more time intervals during a shaving session, or continuously during a shaving session or even after a shaving session.

The first and second electrodes 40 and 42 may be made of any suitable material, including, for example, stainless steel, copper, graphite, titanium, brass, silver, and platinum, depending on the desired electrical conductance, corrosion resistance, hardness, current load, form, and size of the electrodes 40 and 42. The first and second electrodes 40, 42 may be plate electrodes, transformer coils, and/or may take any other suitable form. In some embodiments, the electrodes 40 and 42 may be relatively flush with the surface of the cartridge 16. In other embodiments, the electrodes 40 and 42 may form atraumatic protrusions on the surface of the cartridge 16.

The shaver 12 may include or may otherwise be coupled to one or more processors 46 in operative communication with the conductivity sensor arrangement 38. The one or more processors 46 may be in the handle 14 or in an external component such as the base 18, the user device 20, and/or the merchant unit 22. The one or more processors 46 may include analog-to-digital converters to convert analog signals from the conductivity sensor devices 38 into digital signals for processing. The one or more processors 46 may be equipped with software configured to analyze data (e.g., conductance measurements) to identify user skin characteristics and/or to suggest suggestions based thereon. It is contemplated that one or more of the other exemplary sensor devices (e.g., sensor devices in handle 14 and/or cartridge 16 described in detail in the following paragraphs) may include an electrically conductive sensor device 38.

In another example, one or more of the sensor devices may include a temperature sensor 47 that may contact the skin of the user, such as a resistive temperature detector, thermocouple, and/or thermistor (fig. 5). These types of sensor devices may be placed in contact with the user's skin during a shaving session. One way of sensing skin characteristics such as skin irritation may include measuring the temperature of the user's skin and/or changes in the temperature of the user's skin before, during, and/or after a shaving session. The measured temperature of the user's skin may be affected by a number of factors. The skin of the user contains a large number of blood vessels. When an area of skin is injured (e.g., scratched, bruised, scratched, cut, or otherwise damaged) during a shaving session, blood may flood the affected area via those blood vessels. The influx of blood can transfer heat to the affected area, causing the temperature in those areas to rise.

It is also contemplated that sensor device 47 may include a sensor that remotely senses one or more characteristics of the user's skin. Such sensor means may comprise electro-optical sensors. These sensor devices may be configured to measure characteristics of the user's skin regardless of whether the sensor device 47 is in direct contact with the user's skin. Such sensor devices may measure the temperature of the skin of the user. Additionally or alternatively, such sensor devices may provide information regarding characteristics associated with the user's skin other than temperature. For example, the sensor device 47 may measure the color of the user's skin to detect a color change caused by a change in blood flow or blood concentration in the user's skin, which may be indicative of skin irritation. In another example, the sensor device 47 may measure blood pressure in the skin of the user via monitoring the skin to detect pressure changes that may be indicative of skin irritation. For example, a flushing skin may indicate a relatively high blood pressure resulting from an increase in blood flow to the damaged or otherwise irritated area of skin.

One or more of the sensor devices 47 may be positioned on a surface of the cartridge 16 that faces and/or contacts the user's skin during a shaving session (see fig. 5). For example, one or more of the sensor devices 47 may be on one or more peripheral portions of the cartridge 16 around the blade 34 (e.g., on one or more clips 44 that hold the blade 34 on the cartridge 16 and/or on one or more portions of the cartridge that extend adjacent to the blade 34 in the longitudinal direction of the blade 34). Positioning the sensor device 47 in these positions may be suitable for sensor devices that sense via contact with the user's skin, as these positions tend to be in contact with the user's skin during a shaving session. Positioning is also suitable for sensor devices that sense remotely (e.g., without direct contact with the user's skin), as such sensor devices may still have a line of sight to the user's skin.

It is also contemplated that one or more of the sensor devices 47 may be positioned on other surfaces of the shaver 12. For example, one or more of the sensor devices 47 may be positioned on one or more side wall portions of the cartridge 16, within the cartridge 16, on the handle 14, and/or within the handle 14. Additionally or alternatively, one or more of the sensors 36 may be positioned on a surface of the cartridge 16 behind the blade 34. These locations may be suitable for sensor devices that are remotely sensed (e.g., without direct contact with the user's skin) if the sensor devices have a line of sight to the user's skin from any surface on which the sensor devices may be located, including through gaps between the blades 34 and/or other cartridge structures.

Additional aspects of one remote or electro-optical sensor device 47 are described below. The sensor device 47 can be electrically coupled to a power source, such as an internal battery, in the handle 14 via one or more conductive wires and/or contacts.

In one aspect, the electro-optical sensor device 47 may include a light source and a receiver. The light source may emit light onto the skin of the user. The light source may comprise a Light Emitting Diode (LED), such as a red emitting LED, a green emitting LED, an LED emitting infrared radiation, or any other suitable light emitter, LED, or otherwise. The user's skin may reflect at least some of the light, and the receiver may receive the reflected light. The user may take a "snapshot" of his or her skin tone prior to shaving so that the shaver 12 may make a baseline measurement of the user's skin tone and sense irritation/redness accordingly. The degree to which the user's skin reflects light may be a function of the hue or color of the user's skin, which may be indicative of the blood concentration in the user's skin and/or the blood pressure in the user's skin. The user's skin may have one optical reflectance value when the user's skin is not irritated, and a different optical reflectance value when the user's skin is irritated. Further, the light reflectance value may vary based on the degree of irritation to the user's skin. Thus, the sensor device 47 may identify and/or quantify skin irritation by monitoring the light reflectance of the user's skin. The sensor device 47 may output an electrical signal indicative of one or more characteristics of the reflected light received by the receiver.

In another aspect, the electro-optical sensor device 47 can include a lens that can focus infrared thermal radiation emitted by the user's skin to the detector. The sensor device 47 need not include a light source for emitting light onto the skin of the user, but may include a light source to assist in detection if desired. The degree to which the user's skin emits infrared thermal radiation may be a function of the blood concentration in the user's skin and/or the blood pressure in the user's skin. The user's skin may emit infrared thermal radiation at one level when the user's skin is not irritated, and at a different level when the user's skin is irritated. Further, the level of infrared thermal radiation may vary based on the degree of irritation to the user's skin. Thus, the sensor device 47 may identify and/or quantify skin irritation by monitoring infrared thermal radiation of the user's skin. The sensor device 47 may output an electrical signal indicative of one or more characteristics of the infrared thermal radiation detected by the detector.

It is contemplated that the shaver 12 may include or may otherwise be coupled to one or more processors 46 in operative communication with one or more sensor devices 47. The one or more processors 46 may be equipped with software configured to analyze data (e.g., temperature, color, blood pressure, and/or blood concentration measurements) to identify and quantify skin characteristics (e.g., skin irritation) and/or suggest suggestions based thereon. It is contemplated that one or more of the other exemplary sensor devices (e.g., sensor devices in handle 14 and/or cartridge 16 described in detail in the following paragraphs) may include sensor device 47.

When multiple sensor devices are used in the shaver 12, the sensor devices may be configured to detect different areas of the user's skin. For example, one sensor device may be directed at an area of the user's skin to be shaved (e.g., at or near the leading edge of the shaver 12), while another sensor device may be directed at an area of the user's skin that has been shaved (e.g., at or near the trailing edge of the shaver 12). Comparison of readings from the sensor devices may provide an indication of the level of skin irritation caused by the shaving stroke. It is also contemplated that different types of sensor devices (e.g., of the types described in the above and following paragraphs) may be used simultaneously. Thus, to the extent that one type of sensor device is more adept at sensing skin temperature, another type of sensor device is more adept at sensing skin color, another type of sensor device is more adept at sensing blood pressure, another type of sensor device is more adept at sensing blood concentration, another type of sensor device is more adept at sensing skin conductance, and another type of sensor device is more adept at sensing skin elasticity, combinations of different types of sensor devices may be used simultaneously to provide multiple means of sensing skin properties for greater accuracy and/or precision.

In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, and as shown in fig. 6 and 7, and discussed in more detail below, the sensor device 48 may include an open recess, lumen or cavity 50, a suction source 52, a light source 54, and a light detector 56. The sensor device 48 may be incorporated into the handle body 30 on the opposite end from the handle attachment interface 32. In one example, the suction source 52, the light source 54, and the light detector 56 may be incorporated on or within the cavity 50. The lumen 50 may be located at a proximal portion of the handle 14 and the handle attachment interface 32 may be located on a distal portion of the handle 14. Alternatively, the sensor device 48 may be included on a separate element from the handle body 30 that is configured to be attached to and detached from the handle 14, and may be releasably coupleable to the handle body 30. As described above, the sensor device 48 may be operated by a user via a button or switch (not shown) that may be located on the handle 14 or the base 18, or alternatively, the sensor device 48 may be controlled by the user device 20 or another remote device. As discussed in more detail below, the sensor device 48 may be operably coupled to or include a processor similar to the processor46 (not shown). For example, the processor may have stored thereon software and/or one or more algorithms configured to receive and analyze raw sensor data. Sensor assembly 48 or handle 14 may additionally include a power and communication unit so that data or other signals may be transmitted to and from one or more of base 18, user device 20, or merchant unit 22. In one example, sensor device 48 may include that sold by Courage + Khazaka electronic GmbH

A sensor.

Fig. 6 and 7 illustrate cross-sectional views of aspects of the proximal portion of the handle 14 that may be used to measure properties of the user's skin, such as skin elasticity. In one aspect, the end of the handle body 30 may be pressed against the skin 58 of the user to at least partially deform the skin 58. The suction source 52 may be configured to apply negative pressure at the open end of the cavity 50, which may be positioned on or near the skin 58 of the user. Thus, one or more epithelial layers 60, such as a skin, may be drawn into the cavity 50. Although not shown, the suction source 52 may include a negative pressure pump having an outlet. The negative pressure pump may be positioned anywhere within the handle body 30 (or operably coupled to the handle body 30), and the outlet may be positioned anywhere on the handle body 30, such as on the distal portion, to allow drawn air to flow out of the negative pressure pump and out of the handle body 30.

The light source 54 may emit light, which may then be detected by the light detector 56. In some aspects, the light source 54 may emit light at wavelengths that are not harmful to the skin, such as low intensity visible light, so as not to generate harmful heat. The light detector 56 may be positioned opposite the light source 54 and may detect light from the light source 54 that passes through the cavity 50. In one aspect, the light source 54 and the light detector 56 may each include a prism, and the prism may direct light from the light source 54 to the light detector 56. Further, the intensity and/or amount of light detected by the light detector 56 may vary based on whether and how much tissue of the user's skin is drawn into the cavity 50 when suction is applied by the suction source 52. Each of the suction source 52, light source 54 and light detector 56 may be battery powered by a battery contained within the handle body 30 or may be powered by an external power source, for example, through a wired connection to the base 18 or a household electrical outlet.

As the suction source 52 is activated, the suction portion 60 of the skin 58 may be at least partially between the light source 54 and the light detector 56, thereby at least partially blocking the path of light traveling from the light source 54 to the light detector 56. As a result, the light detector 56 may detect a smaller amount of light than if the suction portion 60 was not drawn into the cavity 50 by the suction source 20. Even if the amount of negative pressure (or vacuum force) from the suction source 52 is constant, different types of skin 58 may be drawn into the cavity 60 to varying degrees. Accordingly, based on the negative pressure applied from the suction source 52 and the amount of light detected by the light detector 56, the sensor device 48 may be configured to help determine the elasticity of the skin 58.

Sensor device 48 may send information indicative of the measure of skin elasticity to base 18, user device 20, and/or merchant device 22. Based on the determined skin elasticity and any additional user information, base 18, user device 20, and/or merchant device 22 may recommend a particular type of cartridge 16 and/or a certain configuration of razor blades 34. Alternatively, the handle 14 may include a display and/or light indicator that may indicate that a particular cartridge 16 coupled to the handle 14 is or is not appropriate for the user's skin 58 based on the determined skin elasticity.

Fig. 9 illustrates how the skin 58 reacts during a shaving session. For example, the cartridge 16 may include five equally spaced razor blades 34, and portions 59 of the skin 58 between the razor blades 34 may project upwardly toward the cartridge 16 (and between adjacent blades 34) as the cartridge 16 is pressed against and moved over the skin 58. If the skin 58 has relatively high skin elasticity, the portion 59 of the skin 58 between the razor blades 34 may be wide and/or protrude toward the cartridge 16. As such, the likelihood of nicks, scratches, irritation, or other skin trauma may increase during a shaving session. However, if the skin 58 has relatively low skin elasticity, the portion 59 of the skin 58 between the razor blades 34 may be narrow and/or not protrude very far toward the cartridge 16 and into the area between adjacent blades 34. Thus, the likelihood of nicks, scratches, irritation, or other skin trauma may be reduced during a shaving session.

Based on this correlation between skin elasticity of the user's skin 58 and comfort and/or ease of shaving sessions, system 10 may recommend cartridges 16 having razor blades 34 of a particular configuration to suit the user based on information from sensor device 48. For example, if the skin elasticity of the user's skin 58 is relatively high, the system 10 may recommend cartridges 16 having a greater number of razor blades 34 spaced relatively closely together, which may reduce the likelihood of nicks, scratches, irritation, and other skin wounds that may result from a shaving session. Alternatively, if the skin elasticity of the user's skin 58 is relatively low, the system 10 may recommend a cartridge 16 with fewer razor blades 34, with relatively more space between each razor blade 34, as the user may not benefit from a greater number of razor blades 34 that are relatively closely spaced together. A cartridge with a greater number of razor blades 34 may also be more expensive than a cartridge with fewer razor blades 34, so the system 10 may recommend the most suitable and economical cartridge 16 for the user. The foregoing recommendations may also be based on other input information, such as skin characteristics, skin sensitivity and/or dryness, frequency of shaving sessions, area of skin 58 to be shaved by the user, skin irritation, and other user preferences or information.

In another aspect, sensor device 62 may be coupled to razor blade 34 in cartridge 16 (see fig. 8). In this aspect, the razor blade 34 may be coupled to a razor spring 64, with the razor spring 64 being coupled to the razor blade 34 on a side of the razor blade 34 not contacting the skin 40. The razor spring 64 may in turn be coupled to a sensor device 62 which may include: strain gauges, pressure sensors, optical sensors, displacement sensors, proximity sensors, and/or any other suitable sensors. The user may press the razor blade 34 against a portion of skin to be shaved, but not move the razor blade 34 along the surface of the skin. Based on any deformation and/or deflection of the razor spring 64, the sensor device 62 may measure skin elasticity of a portion of the skin. As discussed above, the system 10 may confirm that the cartridge 16 includes razor blades 34 in a configuration that is suitable for the user's skin, or the system 10 may recommend a cartridge having razor blades 34 in a different configuration, which may provide a more comfortable shaving session for the user.

In some aspects, a test cartridge may be provided wherein the test cartridge includes a plurality of spring clips in place of razor blades 34. A user may use such test cartridges to determine skin elasticity and determine whether a particular number, configuration, or spacing of blades is optimal for the user's skin based on the determined skin elasticity. Further, such test cartridges may be included in dispensers having a variety of cartridges, with each of the cartridges including a different configuration of razor blades 34. Thus, a user may use a test cartridge to determine skin elasticity, and based on whether the number, configuration, or spacing of particular blades is optimal for the user's skin, the user may use a particular cartridge from a dispenser.

It should be noted that the skin on different parts of the user's body may exhibit different skin elasticity. Thus, the system 10 may recommend one cartridge for a user shaving the face and may recommend a different cartridge for a user shaving the legs or other portions of the body.

As described in the preceding paragraphs, the system 10 may facilitate performance of a method for improving a shaving experience. For example, as depicted in fig. 10, in use, a user may download an application that is run by the one or more processors 46, step 64. Instead of downloading the application, the user may access the application via a website on the internet, for example. The user may complete the user profile of the application (step 66). The user profile may include identification information about the user, the products the user uses for a shaving session, the shaving technique used by the user, user preferences, and information about the user's skin and/or skin care habits. With the information in place, the user may perform a shaving session (step 68).

During a shaving session, skin conductance data may be captured by one or more conductance sensor devices 38 (step 70). However, in some aspects, the application may prompt the user to take one or more conductance measurements prior to a shaving session. For example, the user may be prompted to touch the cartridge 16 to one or more locations on the user's skin without applying shaving agent or water. Such pre-shave measurements may provide a "baseline" conductance measurement. Additionally or alternatively, the user may be prompted to take one or more conductance measurements after a shaving session. These results can then be combined with a "baseline" conductance measurement to determine skin properties even more accurately, but also to determine skin behavior after a shaving session. Any of the sensor devices described in the preceding paragraphs, including sensor devices on cartridge 16, in cartridge 16, and/or in handle 14, may be configured to make conductance measurements.

The data captured by the one or more conductivity sensor devices 38 may be analyzed by the one or more processors 46 (step 72). The one or more processors 46 may identify user skin characteristics based on the captured data, analysis of the data, and/or user input/profiles (step 74). For example, the user's skin may be classified based on comparing the measured conductance of the user's skin to one or more threshold ranges or values associated with one or more skin characteristic categories. Examples of skin property categories include normal skin, dry skin, oily skin, combination skin, sensitive skin, mature skin, and/or any other category. The results of the analysis may be communicated to the user and/or any of the components of the shaving system 10 (step 76).

Normal skin may include skin that is relatively smooth in texture and has a ruddy, transparent, fine pore surface. Normal skin may have little or no visible spots, greasy patches, or skin-shed areas. For normal skin, sebum production, moisture content, keratinization, and exfoliation may be well balanced. Dry skin can lack moisture in its stratum corneum, resulting in tautness and/or peeling. Dry skin may appear dull and/or may lack elasticity, with accentuated fine lines and wrinkles. In more severe cases, itching and burning can occur. Extremely dry skin may show signs of cracks and fissures. Oily skin may include relatively high amounts of lipids on the skin surface due to hyperactivity of the sebaceous glands. It can be shiny and thick, often with large pores. Mixed skin may be dry in some parts of the body and oily in other places. Sensitive skin may react by redness, itching, burning, or dryness when stimulated by, for example, shaving. For mature skin, sebum production of the skin may have slowed, often resulting in increased dryness, increased fine lines and wrinkles, and skin loss. The skin may appear dull and/or may be itchy and burning.

Additionally or alternatively, as depicted in fig. 11, the method of use is shown with steps 78, 80, and 82, similar to steps 64, 66, and 68 of fig. 10. In this approach, the user profile may include a "snapshot" of the user's skin tone prior to shaving, which is taken by the one or more sensor devices 47 and/or the user device 20, such that the shaving system 10 (including the one or more processors 46) may make a baseline measurement of the user's skin tone and sense irritation/redness accordingly.

During a shaving session, skin irritation data may be captured by one or more sensor devices 47 (step 84). However, in some aspects, the application may prompt the user to take one or more measurements prior to a shaving session. For example, the user may be prompted to bring the shaver 12 close to or into contact with one or more locations on the user's skin without applying shaving agent or water. Such pre-shave measurements may provide a "baseline" measurement from which the level of skin irritation caused by shaving may be determined. One type of baseline measurement includes the "snapshot" described above. After the shaving session, the user may also be prompted to take one or more measurements. These results may then be combined with a "baseline" measurement to determine skin behavior (e.g., irritation) after a shaving session. Any of the sensor devices described in the preceding paragraphs, including sensor devices on cartridge 16, in cartridge 16, and/or in handle 14, may be configured for making skin irritation measurements.

The data captured by the one or more sensor devices 47 may be analyzed by the one or more processors 46 (step 86). The one or more processors 46 may identify and/or quantify skin irritation based on the captured data, analysis of the data, and/or user input/profiles (step 88). For example, skin irritation may be identified and/or quantified based on comparing the measured skin temperature, color, blood concentration, and/or blood pressure to one or more threshold ranges or values indicative of skin irritation and/or lack of skin irritation. The results of the analysis may be communicated to the user and/or any of the components of the shaving system 10 (step 90).

The results of the analysis may be communicated in any suitable form. The results may be communicated on the display 30 in the form of an audio and/or visual alert. Additionally or alternatively, skin irritation data from the shaver 12 may be analyzed in conjunction with an image of the user or information about the user captured prior to a shaving session. For example, before shaving, the user may download an application on his or her smartphone or computer, or access a website having the same functionality as the application. The user may be prompted to take or upload one or more photographs or one or more videos of the relevant body part to be shaved. The camera device used to capture the user's image may be a camera built into or connected to a smartphone or computer, or a separate camera from which images may be downloaded and then uploaded via a hard-wired or wireless connection.

The photographic information may be stored in a database, and based on the photographic information, a three-dimensional (3-D) model of the user's body part may be generated. In some embodiments, a particular landmark and/or digital flag may be generated that corresponds to an anatomical feature. In some embodiments, the body area that is photographed may be divided into shaving areas. For example, the user may define which areas of the body part are to be shaved, or the application may automatically divide the image into areas representing an average shaving pattern for an average person or a particular user. The skin irritation information may be analyzed in conjunction with the images, 3-D models, and/or shaving area as the user shaves in order to provide feedback to the user as to where skin irritation was detected. The shaver 12 may comprise a global positioning system or similar device, which may help to determine the position of the shaver 12 relative to the user's anatomy, its orientation and/or its path of travel along the user's skin, which may facilitate the placement of skin irritation data on the 3-D model. It is also contemplated that skin conductance and/or skin elasticity may be tracked and modeled in a similar manner.

Additionally or alternatively, as depicted in fig. 12, the method of use is shown with steps 92 and 94, similar to steps 64 and 66 of fig. 10. Skin elasticity data may be captured by the sensor device 48 before, during, and/or after a shaving session (step 96). However, for example, in some aspects, the application may prompt the user to take one or more measurements prior to a shaving session. The user may be prompted to bring the shaver 12 close to or into contact with one or more locations on the user's skin. This may be done without application of shaving agent or water. Any of the sensor devices described in the preceding paragraphs, including sensor devices on cartridge 16, in cartridge 16, and/or in handle 14, may be configured for making skin elasticity measurements.

As part of step 96, the open end of the chamber 50 may be positioned adjacent an area of the user's skin, and the suction source 52 may apply negative pressure to draw a portion of the skin into the chamber 50. The light source 54 may emit light, and based on the amount of light received by the light detector 56, the sensor assembly 48 may measure skin elasticity of the area of skin. Specifically, light received by the light detector 56 may be communicated to a processor (e.g., processor 46) (step 98) for determining skin elasticity (step 100). The system 10 may also prompt the user via the handle 14, base 18, and/or user device 20 to repeat the skin elasticity measurement, perform the skin elasticity measurement on a different portion of the skin, or perform another operation. Alternatively, as described above, the sensor assembly 62 may be disposed on/in the cartridge 16. The results of the analysis may be communicated to the user and/or any of the components of the shaving system 10 (step 102).

Turning to fig. 13, the one or more processors 46 may be configured to determine whether a user would benefit from one or more specialized articles (e.g., shaving cartridges optimized for sensitive skin) or techniques that optimize shaving performance and comfort. For example, after performing steps 76, 90, or 102, or as part of performing steps 76, 90, or 102, the one or more processors 46 may recommend shaving products (e.g., shavers, lubricants, moisturizers, cartridges having different blade types and arrangements (such as blade spacing and exposure, etc.), shaving techniques, and/or treatment regimens to the user based on the user's skin characteristics, skin irritation, or skin elasticity (step 104). The recommendation may be communicated to the user via any suitable display of the shaving system 10. By communicating with one or more merchant units 22 of system 10, for example, through a downloaded application, a user may order recommended shaving products and/or treatment regimens from one or more merchants using any suitable input means of system 10 (step 106). Additionally or alternatively, recommended shaving products and/or treatment regimens may be ordered automatically by the application. During a subsequent shaving session, the effectiveness of the recommendation may be tracked by measuring the conductance of the user's skin, the irritation of the user's skin, or the elasticity of the user's skin, and looking for changes in the measured values (step 108). Additional or alternative recommendations may be made based on the tracking results (step 110).

Additionally or alternatively, the one or more processors 46 may compare data captured during one or more shaving sessions performed by a user using a first shaving product (e.g., a first lubricant or cartridge) to data captured during one or more other shaving sessions performed by a user using a second shaving product (e.g., a second lubricant or cartridge) to identify differences in conductance, irritation, or elasticity measurements of the user's skin between sessions. The one or more processors 46 may suggest a recommendation based on the presence or extent of the difference in conductance, stimulation, or elasticity. For example, if the change in conductance, stimulus, or elasticity indicates that the characteristic of the user's skin has fallen outside of one or more desired ranges, the one or more processors 46 may suggest to the user to return the characteristic to the one or more desired ranges. One or more processors 46 may use one or more shaving sessions to calibrate system 10 to serve as a starting point against which future shaving sessions may be compared, to eliminate variations between shaving sessions and/or to help track progress of treatment and/or other interventions. In this example, the step of assigning the user skin characteristics to the predetermined categories may be bypassed or omitted.

In some aspects, the cartridge may include razor blades 34 of adjustable configuration or geometry. For example, the cartridge may include a dial, lever, screw, or other input device coupled to the razor blades 34 directly or indirectly, e.g., via a magnet, that allows a user to adjust the spacing between the razor blades 34 and/or the angle thereof. The system 10 may recommend a particular pitch or angle of the razor blades 34 to the user based on information from one or more sensor devices (e.g., the sensor device 48 and/or other sensor devices described above), and the user may adjust the pitch or angle of the razor blades 34 accordingly before beginning a shaving session.

Further, cartridges may be packaged and/or distributed in dispensers, wherein dispensers comprise different cartridges, wherein each cartridge in a dispenser comprises one or more of the following: different blade numbers, blade spacing, blade geometry, angles, coatings, thicknesses, etc. The cartridge may additionally include an identifying indicator, such as a radio frequency identifier, a bar code, a QR code, a model number, a serial number, or other indicator that may be read by or entered into one or more of the sensor device (e.g., sensor device 48 or other sensor devices described above), base 18, and/or user device 20. For example, a user may scan the cartridge's QR code using a camera incorporated in the user device 20. Based on the identification of the cartridge and/or readings from the sensor device (e.g., sensor device 48 and/or other sensor devices described above), at least one of the sensor device, base 18, user device 20, and/or merchant device 22 may indicate to the user whether the cartridge 16 includes a blade geometry that is appropriate for the user, may recommend a particular shaving technique, and/or may recommend a cartridge having razor blades 34 in a different configuration, e.g., a different cartridge in the dispenser.

In another example, a cartridge may include multiple geometries or configurations of razor blades 34 within the same cartridge. For example, a cartridge may include two or three shaving surfaces or sides, with each shaving surface including a different number or configuration of razor blades 34. The shaving surfaces may be configured such that the cartridge may be attached to the handle 14 as discussed above, and the user may shave his or her skin using one or more of the shaving surfaces. For example, based on information obtained by one or more sensor devices (e.g., sensor device 48 and/or other sensor devices described above), system 10 may recommend a particular shaving surface for the user's skin that has a reduced likelihood of nicking, scratching, irritation, or other skin trauma. Alternatively or additionally, the user may attempt to shave with each of the shaving surfaces, and may determine which shaving surface the user prefers based on recommendations from the system 10 and/or estimated costs for various types of cartridges.

Additionally or alternatively, FIG. 14 illustrates a process that may be performed in place of, as part of, or in addition to the process in FIG. 13. For example, steps 104 and 106 (fig. 13) may involve system 10 providing a recommended cartridge 16 and/or a certain configuration of razor blades 34 (step 112). The system 10 may identify a cartridge 16 coupled to the handle 14. System 10, via handle 14, base 18, or user device 20, may confirm that cartridge 16 coupled to handle 14 is a cartridge that is appropriate for the user's skin based on, for example, conductance, irritation, and/or resiliency of the user's skin. Alternatively, system 10 may recommend a particular cartridge 16 and/or a certain configuration of razor blades 34 for the user's skin via handle 14, base 18, or user device 20. Further, if cartridge 16 includes adjustable razor blades 34, system 10 may recommend a particular blade configuration, number of blades, blade spacing, and/or blade geometry that a user may input or adjust on cartridge 16.

In step 114, the system 10 may prompt the user to initiate or confirm an order for one or more recommended cartridges and/or razor blades of a certain configuration. For example, system 10 may display a recommended cartridge 16 and/or a certain configuration of razor blades 34. System 10 may identify a cartridge 16 currently coupled to handle 14 and/or identify a cartridge 16 that is near or within a user's inventory based on the aforementioned identification steps or based on an inventory previously entered by the user. If the cartridge 16 currently coupled to the handle 14 is recommended for use with the user's skin, the system 10 may provide an indication to the user to begin a shaving session, including a suggestion for a shaving session. If the cartridge 16 currently coupled to the handle 14 is not recommended for the user's skin, and the user does not have a recommended cartridge 16 for his or her disposal, the system 10 may provide the user with an option to initiate or confirm an order for one or more recommended cartridges 16 from the merchant unit 22, e.g., a dispenser including a plurality of recommended cartridges 16. Further, the system 10 may provide the user with the option of purchasing additional items, such as shaving cream, post-shave lotion, moisturizer, additional handles, and other shaving or skin care accessories. Alternatively, the order may be placed automatically by the system 10 or may be based on pre-selected user preferences. The system 10 may additionally track the user's selections and/or purchases and incorporate the selections into additional prompts and orders.

It should be noted that additional aspects may be incorporated into any of the elements and systems discussed above. For example, the system 10 may allow a user to track his or her skin conductance, skin irritation, or skin elasticity, for example, if the user is losing weight or is using skin conditioning therapy. The system 10 may prompt the user to measure his or her skin periodically (e.g., monthly) and may display information from one or more sensor devices on the base 18 and/or the user device 20. The base 18 and/or the user device 20 may also provide shaving skills and/or recommendations to the user based on measured skin properties of the user, user preferences, frequency of shaving by the user, a portion of the user's body that the user shaves, the user's hair and body type, and so forth. The user's hair and body type may be monitored by elements (e.g., cameras or other sensing elements) coupled to cartridge 16 and/or handle 14.

Further, the base 18 and/or the user device 20 may include a camera or additional sensing elements that allow the system 10 to obtain user data by, for example, taking pictures of a portion of the user's skin before, during, and/or after a shaving session. If the number of uses of cartridge 16 exceeds the recommended number of uses, base 18 may generate an audible or visible notification to indicate to the user that he or she should replace cartridge 16. This notification may also be communicated to user device 20. This notification may be presented on the display 30 of the base 18, may be a flashing light or any other indication. The base 18 may include a manual reset to override the cartridge use notification. In addition to the number of uses, the notification may also be based on the number of user strokes detected by a stroke sensing element coupled to or part of the cartridge 16 or handle 14. For example, if the user only trims the edges of a beard, the user may use fewer strokes, and thus the cartridge 16 has a higher recommended number of uses than if the user shaves the face or legs and uses a greater number of strokes.

The system 10 and related methods may provide recommendations to a user regarding cartridges 16 having razor blades 34 most likely to provide a comfortable shaving experience for the user. As a result, the user may achieve a comfortable shave during a shaving session, which reduces the likelihood of nicks, scratches, irritation, or other skin trauma. Further, using one or more sensor devices coupled to the handle 14 or cartridge 16, a user may conveniently measure the conductance, stimulation, and/or elasticity of a portion of skin to be shaved. If the user has previously measured skin conductance, irritation, and/or elasticity, and the user's skin may have changed based on, for example, age, weight, sun, etc., the user may easily confirm that the previously indicated cartridge 16 is still suitable for the user's skin, or the system 10 may recommend a different cartridge 16 or a certain configuration of razor blades 34 for the user based on additional measurements made in accordance with the principles described above. The system 10 may also allow a user to easily drop down an order for the cartridge 16, such as a replacement order.

The disclosed system 10 and related methods may also provide merchants with the ability to track user skin conductance, irritation and/or resiliency, cartridge and blade geometry recommendations, cartridge usage, purchase patterns, and/or other user information. For example, the system 10 and related methods may be used and performed by a plurality of users, each sensor device of each system 10 being operatively coupled to a communication unit in the handle 14, base 18, and/or user device 20. The communication unit may send the user data to a merchant database or a database accessed by the merchant. User data may be stored, accumulated, and/or processed within a database. The merchant may then access the user data in the database to determine average skin conductance, irritation and/or resiliency, common cartridge and blade geometry recommendations, average cartridge usage, common purchase patterns, and other user information. The user data may also be filtered and/or categorized by, for example, region, age, race, gender, and other demographic information. Based on this user data, the merchant may then provide targeted advertisements or offers to selected users or other potential consumers in terms of particular areas, age ranges, demographics, and the like. Further, it should be understood that the systems and methods disclosed herein may also be applied to a variety of other applications.

The many features and advantages of the disclosure are apparent from the detailed specification, and thus, it is intended by the appended claims to cover all such features and advantages of the disclosure which fall within the true spirit and scope of the disclosure. Further, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not desired to limit the disclosure to the exact construction and operation illustrated and described, and accordingly, all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to, falling within the scope of the invention.

In addition, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the conception upon which this disclosure is based may readily be utilized as a basis for the designing of other structures, methods and systems for carrying out the several purposes of the present disclosure. Accordingly, the claims should not be viewed as limited by the foregoing description.

Unless clearly indicated otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to "a sensor" can include a plurality of such sensors, and reference to "the sensor" can include reference to one or more sensors, equivalents thereof known to those skilled in the art, and so forth.

The above description is illustrative and is not intended to be limiting. Many modifications and/or changes may be made by one of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the general scope of the present disclosure. For example, and as already described, the above-described embodiments (and/or aspects thereof) may be used in combination with each other. In addition, portions of the above-described embodiments may be removed without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the various embodiments without departing from their scope. Many other embodiments will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reviewing the above description.