Not applicable.
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1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to cosmetics. More particularly, the present invention relates to tools for applying cosmetics. The present invention also relates to the method of applying cosmetics using a particular tool. The tool of the present invention is an airbrush.
2. Description of Related Art including Information Disclosed under 37 CFR 1.97 and 37 CFR 1.98
Cosmetics enhance the physical appearance of the body. The terms “cosmetics”, “make-up”, and “makeup” are synonymous and refer to these substances used to change the way a person looks and smells. Cosmetics include powders, gels, emulsions, oils, and other compositions of various colors, consistencies, and scents. Arguably more importantly, cosmetics also affect the way the person feels. Cosmetics enhance beauty, affecting confidence and mood.
Various tools are used to apply cosmetics. Brushes, pads, lipsticks, and atomizers are common tools widely available to all users. Each individual has a preference for particular types of cosmetics and particular types of cosmetic applicators. Each individual has a comfort level with known cosmetics and cosmetic applicators set by experience and familiarity, such that desired looks are achieved with only those known cosmetics and cosmetic applicators. Learning a new cosmetic and learning to use a new cosmetic applicator takes significant time and risk. Training to use a new tool takes time and practice to acquire a level of skill. Professional makeup artists have the time to elevate their skills, but many home users do not have this time. Non-professionals still want adequate training to apply cosmetics. There is also the risk of looking bad and failing to enhance one's beauty, when trying new cosmetics and cosmetic applicators.
One type of cosmetic applicator is an airbrush. An airbrush is used to spray color onto a limited surface area using compressed air. The air brush can paint t-shirts and cars, but the air brush can also apply spray-on tanning and cosmetics. The user controls the amount of spray using a variable trigger to adjust the amount and speed of air passing through the brush. The skill of manipulating the fine control of this trigger increases the consistency and complexity of cosmetic application with the air brush. Air brush technique necessarily involves freehand skills. For instance, the air brush can blend colors and create soft edges without stencils. In the past, the air brush has been a cosmetic applicator for professional makeup artist due the special equipment and importance of skill and technique.
For new cosmetics and new cosmetic applicators, there is a need for proper training and instruction. For example, for the airbrush, the user will need to learn about the new cosmetics loaded into the airbrush and the visual effect of applying those new cosmetics. The user will also need to learn the technique for applying the cosmetics to create the desired visual appearance. Only the proper training and instruction will create the comfort level in the user, which encourages the user to continue using the new cosmetic applicator.
Various patents and publications are available in the field of applying cosmetics. United States Patent Publication No. 20020196333, published for Gorischek on Dec. 26, 2002, teaches a simple mirror and image display system. The system is a vanity console display with a mirror and a control unit. The control unit can be an interactive video screen or a touch screen integrated into the display with the mirror. A user can look in the mirror, while applying make-up, while receiving feedback and instructions from the control unit in the display. Variations include a camera input to upload the image of the face in the mirror to provide more particular instructions by the control unit.
United States Patent Publication No. 20080245383, published for Tomandl on Oct. 9, 2008, describes another basic model of integrated a control unit in a make-up system. The invention is a compact with a mirrored inner top lid and a containment unit for make-up in an inner bottom lid. The compact can be closed so as to protect the make-up while transporting. The invention further includes an audio or video or audio/video component housed inside the compact. When the compact is open, the component can be activated to provide audio instructions or video instructions or both, during application of the make-up. A user may look in the mirror and apply make-up, while listening to the audio script into the compact.
U.S. Pat. No. 7,950,925, issued to McDaniel et al. on May 31, 2011, for discloses a method for educating a consumer about a personal care product by accepting an input of physical characteristics data from the consumer and generating a visual 3D model of how a person with similar physiological characteristics would interact with the product. After the visual 3D model is generated, the consumer can interact with the model of the person and the personal care product for the purpose of visualizing how the product would work in practice.
United States Patent Publication No. 20120158184, published for Ma et al. on Jun. 21, 2012, discloses a combination of a makeup server expert system and a makeup robot. The system is designed to operate over a network, so that the makeup robot downloads or otherwise receives instructions from the server expert system. The server expert system may be manned by a cosmetic technician or the user may request a profile for the robot and simply download the profile without any real-time advice, from the server. The makeup robot comprises a nozzle, which sprays cosmetics on the user's face; a face distance measurer, which detects the dimensions of the user's face; and a computer system, which accepts or downloads profile instructions, applies them to the calculated facial dimensions, and sprays the appropriate levels of makeup onto the user's face.
United States Patent Publication No. 20130098382, published for Martin et al. on Apr. 25, 2013, discloses a motorized brush makeup kit. The kit includes a variable speed motor, rotating around its central axis, with multiple brush attachments each designed for a different type of makeup for use on a different part of the body. In one embodiment of the makeup kit, detailed instructions on how to use the kit may take the form of electronic materials, computer software, and/or videos. The method and kit helps teach a user to identify different portions of the body to apply makeup, and which brushes and/or motor speeds are appropriate, effectively teaching a user how to layer makeup around three identified zones of the face.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a system and method for applying cosmetics.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a system and method for applying cosmetics in a single integral unit
It is an object of the present invention to provide a system and method for applying cosmetics in an interactive experience
It is another object of the present invention to provide a system and method for applying cosmetics with an airbrush stylus.
It is another object of the present invention to provide a system and method for teaching the use of a cosmetic applicator.
It is still another object of the present invention to provide a system and method for teaching the use of an airbrush stylus.
It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a system and method for applying cosmetics in a positive and empowering experience.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a system and method for applying cosmetics with selected prompts and instructions for a desired cosmetic application.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a system and method for applying cosmetics tailored for individual user preferences.
These and other objects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from a reading of the attached specification and claims.
Embodiments of the present invention related to a system and method for applying cosmetics. The system is an integral unit formed by a lower housing, an upper housing and cover. The integral unit is small, portable, compact, and stylish for a household appliance for use in personal grooming. A compressor module is contained in the lower housing, and a control module is contained in the upper housing. The lower housing has an outlet member near a bottom edge thereof, and the compressor module has a compressed air outlet in fluid connection with the outlet member. The upper housing covers the compressor module in the lower housing and is affixed to the lower housing around the rim of the housings. The upper housing can also include a mount on an exterior of the upper housing. In some embodiments, the mount is on a lateral side of the exterior of the upper housing.
The control module is comprised of a view screen, printed circuit board connected to the compressor module, an interactive control board connected to the printed circuit board, and a speaker. The upper housing is sandwiched between the compressor module and the control module. The cover fits over the control module in the upper housing and affixed to the upper housing around the rim of the upper housing. The activation and regulation of the compressor module is contained in the integral unit in a stylish package.
Embodiments of the present invention also include a cosmetics applicator in fluid connection with the compressor module through the outlet member. In one embodiment, the cosmetics applicator is comprised of an air hose and an airbrush stylus for the airbrushing cosmetics onto the face of the user. The air hose connects to the outlet member, so that the compressor module supplies compressed air to the airbrush stylus, and so that the control module regulates compressed air to the airbrush stylus. The regulation of the airbrush stylus allows for the proper application of cosmetics with compressed air.
The method of applying cosmetics with the system includes activating the control module; producing audiovisual prompts to the user; loading cosmetics into the air brush stylus, according to the audiovisual prompts related to a desired cosmetic application; producing audio visual instructions to the user; and applying cosmetics according to the audiovisual instructions related to the desired cosmetic application. The present invention teaches and instructs the user for performing in a single integral unit. The technique and advice to learn good technique is prompted and taught by the method of the present invention. In some embodiments, there are the steps of selecting the audiovisual prompts according to the desired cosmetic application. The system can be adjusted for any skin tone or pattern to instruct the user to achieve the desired look. When the system is connected to a computer network, the desired cosmetic application can be sent by the computer network to insure reliable and updated information on the technique.
The method also includes embodiments with audiovisual encouragements and user profiles. The user profiles allow for saving preferences for later repeated cosmetic applications and for securing marketing information for targeted advertisements and suggestions. For example, a prompt for a particular skin tone can be saved for reminder for the next time the product is purchased.
Referring to
Embodiments of the present invention also include a compressor module 28 contained in the lower housing 12, and a control module 30 in the upper housing 14.
For the present invention,
Embodiments of the control module 30 include the view screen 34 being comprised of a liquid crystal display (LCD) or touchscreen. The view screen is interactive with the user, showing the status of the compressor and playing videos of step by step instructions and demonstrating the technique for a particular cosmetic application. The visual data is presented by the view screen 34, while the audio data is broadcast by the speaker 40. The speaker 40 is typically mounted in a top side 54 of the upper housing 14. The upper housing 14 can also have a chamber 56 for amplifying sound from the speaker 40. The chamber 56 allows for greater sound from a small speaker in a compact device. The single integral unit 18 enhances the combination of the compressor module 28 with the control module 30. The chamber 56 creates space in a generally rectangular shape on the upper housing 14, which can vibrate as an amplifier for the speaker 40. The speaker 40 is placed adjacent this chamber 56. The upper housing 14 may also include a screened speaker hole 58 on an exterior of the upper housing, as shown in
As the control module 30 is interactive, there can be an interactive control board 38 with a plurality of buttons 50 accessible through the cover 16. A user can press the buttons 50, while the cover 16 maintains the integral unit 18. The buttons 50 correspond to inputs 52 on the printed circuit board 36, such that pressing each of the plurality of buttons 50 corresponds to different activities of the compressor module 28.
In another embodiment, the integral unit 18 includes a power inlet (not shown) and a power cord 64 for connecting to a power source, such as a wall outlet or other AC power source.
The present invention includes the method of applying cosmetics with the system 10. The first step is to activate the control module 30 by inserting a power cord 64 into a power source so as to set the control module 30 and the compressor module 28 into an on position, respectively. Power sources can include a wall socket or other AC power source, or another DC power source, such as a battery. In some embodiments, the control module 30 and the compressor module 28 are activated as on as soon as the power is supplied. Alternatively, there can be an activation switch 60, which requires the user to trigger the activation switch 60 in order to power the compressor module 28. The control module 30 can still be started automatically with the supply of power.
The next step is the production of audiovisual prompts on the view screen 34 and through sound from the speaker 40. Then, the cosmetics are loaded into the air brush stylus 46, according to the audiovisual prompts related to a desired cosmetic application. The desired cosmetic application can be selected on the control module 30, during the production the audiovisual prompts. The desired cosmetic application is the pattern and color of cosmetics to be applied to the user with the system 10. The skin tone, facial structure, and style of look desired by the user can be used to set the desired cosmetic application. The control module 30 has the interactive control board 38 to enter and process these elements of the desired cosmetic application. The audiovisual prompts are being selected as a result of the choosing and entering the characteristics of the desired cosmetic application. The broadcast of the audiovisual prompts can also be regulated by the control module 30, such as fast forwarding through video clips, rewinding audio instructions, and/or pausing through the audio and visual prompts.
After the cosmetics are loaded, the method includes producing audiovisual instructions on the view screen 34 and through sound from the speaker 40. The technique and order of application are provided to the user, so that the cosmetics are then applied according to the audiovisual instructions related to the desired cosmetic application. The audiovisual instructions can also be selected on the control module 30, according to the desired cosmetic application. The audiovisual instructions for certain facial structures and skin tones are different for other facial structures and skin tones. The level of expertise of the user can also be the basis for adjusting the audiovisual instructions. A first time beginner may require more instructions than a more experienced user. The experience level of the user can affect the selection of instructions produced by the system 10. To achieve a desired cosmetic application, the user receives individualized instructions according to the characteristics of the user. The interactive control board 38 or the view screen 34 as a touch screen can be used to navigate through the selections of either audiovisual prompts or audiovisual instructions. The broadcast of the audiovisual instructions can also be regulated by the control module 30, such as fast forwarding through video clips, rewinding audio instructions, and/or pausing through the audio and visual prompts.
The embodiments of the present invention include the control module 30 connecting to a wireless computer network. The memory in the control module 30 can be supplemented with new information and data from a computer network. The audiovisual prompts and audiovisual instructions are relayed from the wireless computer network as selected for the desired cosmetic application. The range and variety of prompts and instructions can be expanded with connection to a wireless computer network.
Alternative embodiments of the method of the present invention include the step of producing audiovisual encouragements during the step of applying cosmetics. The control module 30 is interactive, and additional audiovisual communication can be provided beyond prompts and instructions. Encouragements can further the positive experience of learning to use the airbrush stylus 46 and apply beautiful and stylish make-up.
To organize the prompts and instructions, there can be the step of storing preferences of past desired cosmetic applications. A user profile can be maintained on the control module 30 for storage on a computer network. The profile can include preferences, past prompts, past instructions, past desired cosmetic applications, and entered information about the user. Prompts and instructions can be selected easier for each application. Embodiments of the present invention further include generating audiovisual suggestions and linking additional services according to the prompts and instructions produced. The suggestions can enhance the experience of the desired cosmetic application by including new ideas. Those suggestions based on preferences and a user profile can further enhance the experience of using the system 10. Linking additional services on a wireless computer network can increase the utility of the system 10 as a marketing tool. Re-supplying cosmetics and associated products can be disclosed and offered to the user. Only relevant cosmetics and products are presented because the system 10 has access to the past prompts and instructions to narrow the types of products that a particular user will use.
Embodiments of the present invention disclose a system and method for applying cosmetics. The system has been made more accessible to non-professional users with various innovations in the combination and connection of modules. The single integral unit, for the additional structures to be coordinated with the compressor, enables the user to easily and conveniently apply cosmetics with consistency and good technique. The single unit is an innovative interactive experience with the control module and compressor module together. An advanced tool, such as the airbrush stylus, can be competently and effectively used by individuals, who may have previously been hesitant to use a new tool. Users lacking confidence and instruction would not purchase or use the airbrush stylus in the past. Currently, the embodiments of the present invention eliminate that lack of confidence and provide the necessary instructions. The system and method is personalized and prompts and instructions can be selected, according to personalized preferences, such as skill level and individual facial features. The preferences of the individual are incorporated into the system and method, unlike prior art technology in the field of cosmetic applicators.
The embodiments of the present invention also teach the use of a cosmetic applicator. Instead of printed instruction manuals and illustrations, the teaching component has become part of the applicator. In the example of the airbrush stylus, the teaching structures are always part of the cosmetic applicator. Once mastered or the user has sufficient confidence, the system can give encouragement, instead of teaching and repeating. The present invention provides this more interactive and personalized system to increase the use and positive experience of the user. The user is empowered and confident to use a new applicator, which was previously too daunting for non-professionals. Other prior art systems cannot achieve this sense of accomplishment and positive experience produced by embodiments of the interactive single unit of the present invention.
The foregoing disclosure and description of the invention is illustrative and explanatory thereof. Various changes in the details of the described system and method can be made without departing from the true spirit of the invention.
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Number | Date | Country | |
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