Cosmetic or dermatological system with automatic adjustment of the properties of a preparation as a function of data transmitted by a transmitter external to the system

Abstract

A cosmetic or dermatological system includes a receiver of data related to current and/or future surrounding conditions transmitted by a data transmitter external to the system, a packaging and dispenser device containing one or more compositions from which a preparation is delivered, an adjustment system that is coupled to or suitable for coupling to the packaging and dispenser device, and that enables at least one characteristic of the dispensed preparation to be varied, and a processor for automatically controlling the adjustment system as a function of the received data or for informing the user, as a function of the received data, about an action to be exerted on the adjustment system.

Claims

1. A cosmetic or dermatological system comprising: a common base station; a receiver of data included in the common base station, the receiver of data related to current/future surrounding conditions, said data being received from a data transmitter external to the system and comprising information related to at least one of an intensity of UV radiation, a temperature, a humidity, wind, precipitation, pollution, and a pressure; a plurality of packaging and dispenser devices being associated with the common base station and receiving the data from the base station, each of the plurality of packaging and dispenser devices containing one or more compositions from which a preparation is delivered, each of the plurality of packaging and dispenser devices being in the form of a handpiece capable of being separated from the base station for dispensing the preparation; a plurality of adjustment systems, each being coupled to or configured for coupling to one of the plurality of packaging and dispenser devices, and that enables at least one characteristic of the preparation delivered by the packaging and dispenser device to be modified; and a processor configured to automatically control the adjustment systems as a function of the received data or for informing a user, as a function of the received data, about an action to be exerted on the adjustment systems, wherein at least one of the plurality of packaging and dispenser devices dispenses a preparation selected from preparations to provide sunscreen, preparations for providing protection against the cold, preparations to aid in moisturizing the skin, an antiperspirant, a deodorant, a fragrance, preparations for providing protection against mosquitoes, care preparations, preparations for washing the body and the hair, makeup and hair-shaping preparations, the preparation being different from a second preparation dispensed by a second device of the plurality of packaging and dispenser devices, the second preparation being selected from preparations to provide sunscreen, preparations for providing protection against the cold, preparations to aid in moisturizing the skin, an antiperspirant, a deodorant, a fragrance, preparations for providing protection against mosquitoes, care preparations, preparations for washing the body and the hair, makeup and hair-shaping preparations.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein each packaging and dispenser device comprises a first reservoir and second reservoir, the first reservoir containing a first composition and the second reservoir containing a second composition, the adjustment system enabling the first and second compositions to be dispensed in a determined proportion as a function of the received data.

3. The system according to claim 1, wherein each packaging and dispenser device comprises a first reservoir and a second reservoir, the first reservoir containing a first composition and the second reservoir containing a second composition, the adjustment system enabling a selected one of the first or second compositions to be dispensed.

4. The system according to claim 2, wherein the first composition has a first concentration of at least one active agent that differs from a second concentration of the at least one same active agent in the second composition.

5. The system according to claim 4, wherein the at least one active agent is selected from the group consisting of a sun protection filter, an antistatic agent, an anti-insect agent, a moisturizer, a fragrance, a deodorant, and an antiperspirant.

6. The system according to claim 1, configured to receive data from an individual terminal.

7. The system according to claim 1, wherein the base station is configured to receive and process information from a remote server in order to generate data for delivery to the packaging and dispenser device.

8. The system according to claim 1, wherein the base station further comprises a user interface enabling input of at least one of a characteristic related to a state of a user's skin, a characteristic related to a state of a user's hair, and information related to an activity of the user.

9. The system according to claim 1, wherein the packaging and dispenser devices are portable.

10. The system according to claim 9, wherein the packaging and dispenser devices are configured to be positioned on the base station when they are not dispensing the preparations.

11. The system according to claim 1, wherein the base station comprises, for each packaging and dispenser device, an actuator suitable for acting on an adjustment member of the packaging and dispenser device while the device is on the base station.

12. The system according to claim 1, wherein the base station is configured to act as a docking station for a mobile telephone suitable for receiving external data and controlling the adjustment systems.

13. The system according to claim 2, wherein the base station is configured to recognize automatically the compositions contained in the reservoirs.

14. The system according to claim 13, wherein the recognition of the compositions is performed by an element selected from the group consisting of electrical contacts, an electronic chip, a mechanical feeler and an optical reader.

15. A method of preparing a cosmetic or dermatological composition using a cosmetic or dermatological system as defined in claim 1, wherein data is delivered to the cosmetic or dermatological system by at least one sender located at a distance from the cosmetic or dermatological system, thereby enabling the adjustment system to be further controlled.

16. The method according to claim 15, wherein the data is delivered by at least one of a home weather station, an individual terminal connected to Internet, and a remote server.

17. The method according to claim 16, wherein the cosmetic or dermatological system is connected to the Internet.

18. The method according to claim 16, wherein the adjustment system is controlled as a function of at least information related to a user to be treated with the preparation.

19. The method according to claim 18, wherein the information related to the user comprises information about a skin type.

20. The method according to claim 16, wherein the adjustment system is controlled as a function of data relating to one or more surrounding forecast conditions.

21. A network, comprising: a plurality of cosmetic or dermatological systems according to claim 1; and a sending system configured to simultaneously or successively transmit data to the plurality of cosmetic or dermatological systems.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

(1) The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate a number of exemplary features of a non-limiting embodiment of the invention and together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention. In the drawings:

(2) FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a system according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure;

(3) FIG. 2 is a block diagram of various component elements of a cosmetic or dermatological system according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure;

(4) FIGS. 3 to 7 show various ways data may be received by the system according to exemplary embodiments of the disclosure;

(5) FIG. 8 is a view of an another system to that shown in FIG. 2 and according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

(6) FIG. 9 shows an example of data that may be displayed on the system;

(7) FIGS. 10 to 14 are exemplary diagrams showing various methods of dispensing a preparation having the desired properties according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

(8) FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an exemplary system in another embodiment of the disclosure;

(9) FIGS. 16 to 23 are diagrams showing several alternative embodiments of a system according to exemplary embodiments of the disclosure;

(10) FIG. 24 shows one exemplary arrangement for adjusting flow rate according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

(11) FIG. 25 is an exemplary diagrammatic section of one embodiment of the present disclosure enabling a predefined quantity of a substance to be treated in order to activate an active agent and produce a preparation with desired properties;

(12) FIG. 26 is an illustration of an exemplary network array for transmitting data to a plurality of systems according to embodiments of the disclosure;

(13) FIG. 27 is a schematic of an example of an electronic circuit suitable for being incorporated in a system according to exemplary embodiments of the disclosure; and

(14) FIGS. 28 and 29 show other arrangements of the adjustment system.

(15) FIG. 30 is an illustration of shows additional ways data may be received by the system according to exemplary embodiments of the disclosure.

MORE DETAILED DESCRIPTION

(16) Reference will now be made in detail to exemplary embodiments of the invention, examples of which are 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. 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 invention, as claimed.

(17) FIG. 1 is a diagram of an exemplary system 10 according to embodiments of the present disclosure. System 10 may comprise a single appliance (e.g., packaging and dispenser device) in the form of a handpiece, or it may comprise a plurality of appliances, with a packaging and dispenser device in the form of a handpiece as one element and a base station that is associated with the device as another, for example. In each of the exemplary embodiments described herein, system 10 may include at least one starting composition 20.sub.i, an adjustment/dispenser system 30, a user interface 40, and a receiver 50 for receiving external data, however some embodiments may include more or fewer components as desired.

(18) As shown in FIG. 2, system 10 may further include processor means 31, e.g. comprising one or more microprocessors and/or microcontrollers and/or an analog electronic circuit, and/or any electronically programmable specialized circuit capable of performing instructions and/or predefined functions. For example, the processor means 31 may comprise a circuit including an i386 architecture processor, a RISC processor, and/or other components configured to cause execution of instructions. These processor means 31 may include an internal pulse generating clock.

(19) The receiver 50 may include at least one of a remote data receiver 51 and a proximity data receiver 52. Further, where desired system 10 may include one or more sensors 60, e.g. surroundings sensors 61 and/or characteristic sensors 62 for measuring characteristic of a region to be treated. System 10 also may include a display means 70, e.g., a screen (not shown in FIG. 1).

(20) User interface 40 may include a button 41 for triggering operation of the system.

(21) Receiver of Remote Data

(22) Remote data receiver 51 may be configured to receive data via a radiofrequency link operating in the various wavelength bands in which wireless data transmission is performed. Remote data receiver 51 may thus receive data from remote server 80 via one or more radio relays 81, e.g. spread over a territory, or other suitable device. For example, remote server 80 may receive meteorological data, among other things, and transmit the meteorological data to a plurality of systems 10. Each system 10 may process the data transmitted by remote server 80 to select those portions of data that relate to a geographical location of respective system 10 and/or the geographical location set by a user of system 10.

(23) Such data may be received wirelessly or by wire, e.g., via an Ethernet cable, e.g. using an RJ45 connector, a parallel port, or an RS232, RS422, RS485, USB, or IEEE1394 serial port, an optical fiber, carrier current transmission, e.g. of the power line carrier (PLC) type, or radio transmission, e.g. WiFi, mobile telephone (GSM), Bluetooth, infra red (IR), ultrasound, or other suitable technique.

(24) Remote data receiver 51 may include an antenna, a photodetector, an electrical connector, and/or an optical connector, depending on the mode of data transmission that is used.

(25) Receiver of Proximity Data

(26) System 10, according to exemplary embodiments of the disclosure, may also include proximity receiver 52. The term proximity receiver should be understood as meaning a radio frequency or infrared interface receiving data from a short-range transmitter, e.g. a remote control or a mobile telephone, or a wire connection to a local area network (LAN), e.g. a link via an Ethernet, WiFi, or line carrier current cable, or a serial or parallel cable link. In some embodiments, proximity receiver 52 may include a receiver of the Bluetooth type.

(27) Surrounding Sensors

(28) System 10 may include one or more surroundings sensors 61 configured to read data associated with the ambient conditions surrounding system 10. For example, such sensors may include UV sensors for detecting UV light flux at the location of system 10, conductance sensors for measuring, e.g., conductance of the air, humidity sensors, temperature sensors, etc.

(29) Data from surroundings sensors 61 may be provided to processor means 31 to enable processor means 31 to determine instructions for preparing a preparation from starting compositions 20.sub.i. For example, where a UV sensor is present, UV flux data may be used to determine a concentration for various sun filter compositions to arrive a desired protection level for a preparation.

(30) Surrounding sensors 61 may perform alone or in conjunction with one or more other sensors, including characteristic sensors 62, and further in conjunction with data provided remotely. One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that various configurations for utilizing such data may be implemented without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

(31) Characteristic Sensors

(32) System 10 may include one or more characteristic sensors 62 configured to read data associated with the user operating system 10. For example, such sensors may include skin type/color sensors for determining a level of color (e.g., a tan) associated with the user, moisture sensors for measuring the level of perspiration currently present on the user, temperature sensors for measuring body temperature, etc.

(33) Data from characteristic sensors 62 may be provided to processor means 31 (e.g., a processor) to enable processor means 31 to determine instructions for preparing a preparation from starting compositions 20.sub.i. For example, where a skin color sensor is present, data related to the skin color of the user may be used to determine a concentration for various sun filter compositions to arrive a desired protection level for a preparation. In such an example, a person having a deep tan may require less sun filter protection than someone with fair skin. Data associated with skin color may therefore assist processor means 31 in making an improved preparation for an individual user.

(34) Characteristic sensors 62 may perform alone or in conjunction with one or more other sensors, including surrounding sensors 61, and further in conjunction with data provided remotely. One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that various configurations for utilizing such data may be implemented without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

(35) Data Broadcasting

(36) Data delivered to the various systems 10 may be uniform over a territory, thereby leaving system 10 to select data of interest to the user from the broadcast data provided. Therefore, system 10 may be capable of identifying its location, e.g. by means of a GSM chip, a GPS, receiver, or other suitable device, and/or it may receive information concerning its location from the user.

(37) In some embodiments, such as that shown in FIG. 4, data delivered to systems 10 may comprise personalized data, e.g. as a result of an exchange of data between the remote server 80 and a remote terminal 83 e.g. a microcomputer or a mobile terminal. Such an exchange of data may take place, for example, over the Internet and/or by mobile telephony. A user may input data concerning location and/or personal preferences or other data into remote terminal 83, this data being forwarded to the remote server 80 in association with an identifier for the user of the remote terminal 83 (and thereby, system 10), so as to enable system 10 subsequently to recognize the data corresponding thereto. System 10 may send location data automatically to the server 80.

(38) FIG. 5 shows the possibility of system 10 receiving data from the remote server 80 and also from a local terminal 85, e.g. a microcomputer or a mobile terminal, e.g. using proximity receiver 52. A user interface of local terminal 85 may be used to input data into the processor means 31 of system 10, e.g. certain user preferences, and/or to program certain modes of operation.

(39) In some embodiments, system 10 may receive data in passive manner. Alternatively, system 10 may be arranged to interrogate remote server 80 for data, either directly or via a local terminal, e.g. a mobile telephone or an Internet link. Such a request sent to remote server 80 may include, for example, location information and/or information about the user's activity, among other things.

(40) FIG. 6 shows another exemplary embodiment wherein system 10 receives data from the remote server 80 via a local terminal 86, e.g. a microcomputer. The microcomputer may receive data from an network location (e.g., Internet site) connected to remote server 80 and it may forward the data to system 10, in some embodiments, after processing the data.

(41) FIG. 7 shows another exemplary embodiment wherein system 10 is configured to receive data both directly from the remote server 80 and from a local terminal 86, e.g. via a mobile telephony data receiver and a Bluetooth or WiFi data receiver.

(42) One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that other configurations of terminals 83 and 86, as well as remote server 80 and system 10 may be implemented without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

(43) Expert System

(44) FIG. 15 shows the possibility of system 10 exchanging data with a separate expert system 200. For example, expert system 200 may include a microcomputer with which system 10 is capable of communicating, or expert system 200 may be a server with which system 10 is capable of communicating, e.g. via the Internet. The expert system 200 may also form part of the system according to exemplary embodiments of the disclosure and by way of example it may be situated in a base station not far from system 10, e.g. constituting a stand on which the packaging and dispenser device may be placed after it has been used.

(45) In some embodiments, expert system 200 may contribute to performing calculations needed for determining a concentration of one or more active agents for a desired preparation as a function of certain conditions of the surroundings.

(46) Controlling the Adjustment System

(47) The adjustment system 30 may be controlled directly by the processor means 31, acting to adjust automatically the properties of the preparation that is dispensed.

(48) In some embodiments, for example, as shown in FIG. 8, processor means 31 may cause information to be displayed on display means 70, thereby enabling the user to adjust the adjustment system 30 manually so that the preparation that is dispensed presents the desired characteristics. The display means 70 may include a screen 72 suitable for displaying various kinds of information, for example a mode of operation 73 as selected by the user, and in particular an automatic mode or a manual mode. Automatic mode may corresponds to automatically adjusting the properties of the preparation as a function of received data, whereas manual mode may enable the user to cause a preparation to be dispensed that has characteristics that are set by the user.

(49) In some embodiments, for example, as shown in FIG. 9, screen 72 may display information 74 relating to local weather data, e.g. a UV index representative of the intensity of UV radiation at ground level, together with a present or future weather forecast. In some embodiments, the display may be embodied in the form of a pictogram 87.

(50) Screen 72 may display information 75 relating to the location of system 10, or it may enable such information to be displayed, e.g. a code for the state or the department in which the user is situated. Screen 72 may also display the time 76, indicate good reception of data by system 10 via an indicator 77, possibly display information related to the user's skin type 78, which is used for performing automatic adjustment, and also an index of protection 79 of the preparation for and/or as dispensed, e.g. the sun protection factor (SPF) index. In some embodiments, calculation of this index may take into account the skin type selected by the user, the time of day, and the received weather data, in particular data relating to sunlight. Where desired, the user interface may include buttons 42 that appear on the screen, e.g., when the screen is a touch screen.

(51) Screen 72 also may display an alarm 79 to warn the user that it is time to renew application of the preparation. Where desired, this alarm may be accompanied by an audible signal (e.g., via a loudspeaker or a headphone set).

(52) Adjustment system 30 may be controlled by system 10, which may incorporate one or more (e.g., all) of the actuators needed for actuating an adjustment member, for example a valve that controls the flow rate of a starting composition 20.sub.i.

(53) Adjustment System

(54) System 10 according to exemplary embodiments of the disclosure includes a packaging and dispenser device that contains one or more starting compositions 20.sub.i. Embodiments of system 10 may further comprise a variety of adjustment systems 30 and data receivers 50, which may, for example, be located within the same housing as a starting composition 20.sub.i.

(55) In a variant, the system comprises a packaging and dispenser device in the form of a handpiece capable of being separated from a base station, which base station contains at least part and possibly all of adjustment system 30, for example. In such embodiments, the handpiece may comprise for example, one or more starting compositions 20.sub.i and a dispenser configured to dispense a mixture made from the one or more starting compositions 20.sub.i. An adjustment member of the packaging and dispenser device may be actuated by the base station as a function of the desired content and/or concentration of active agent in a dispensed preparation.

(56) Various possibilities exist to enable a preparation to be dispensed with the desired contents and/or concentrations of active agent. For example, system 10 may comprise a packaging and dispenser device having two or more reservoirs 21 and 22 containing different starting compositions 20.sub.i, for example with the first reservoir 21 containing a neutral composition and the second reservoir 22 containing an active agent. The term neutral composition should be understood as a composition configured for use alone and/or for mixing with at least one other composition containing a primary or secondary active agent in order to make a preparation for dispensing. Further, one of skill in the art will understand that while 2 reservoirs, 21 and 22, are discussed herein, any number of reservoirs may be implemented, for example, 3, 4, 5, or more reservoirs as desired.

(57) In some embodiments, the proportion of active agent in a dispensed preparation may be adjusted by modifying head loss in feed ducts 39 connecting the reservoirs 21 and 22 containing the starting compositions 20.sub.i to one or more corresponding dispenser orifices 35.

(58) FIG. 10 shows an exemplary configuration according to embodiments of the present disclosure, wherein reservoirs 21 and 22 are associated with adjustable-rate pumps 32. In such embodiments, for example, the adjustable rate pumps may be operated at various flow rates to cause a desired preparation to be produced.

(59) FIG. 11 shows another exemplary configuration according to embodiments of the present disclosure, wherein reservoirs 21 and 22 containing the starting compositions 20.sub.i may be associated with valves 34. Valves 34 may enable a flow rate for each feed duct 39 to outlets 35 to be adjusted.

(60) In some embodiments, for example, as shown in FIG. 24, it may be possible to provide a device for pinching an elastic or semi-elastic feed duct 110 through which one of the starting compositions 20.sub.i travels. For example, duct 110 circumscribes a loop 113 that bears against a support 111 of the device. A movable spacer element 112, which is controlled by a system 10, is capable of moving relative to support 111 to cause duct 110 to flatten or expand. In some embodiments, spacing of movable element 112 may be controlled by a motor (not shown). In some embodiments, element 112 may be triangular in shape and a spring (not shown) may urge it against duct 110 in the absence of power being applied to the motor. When the motor is powered, element 112 is moved towards the support 110, and the duct returns elastically to a bore of greater inside section. In some embodiments, the motor used may be a stepper motor, e.g. of the Performax type, and by way of example the duct may be a flexible plastics tube having a diameter of 3 millimeters (mm) and a length of 55 mm.

(61) Feed ducts connected to reservoirs 21 and 22 may deliver starting compositions 20.sub.i via two separate dispenser orifices 35, as shown in FIG. 12, or they may be in fluid communication, resulting in delivery to the outside via a single dispenser orifice 36, as shown in FIG. 13.

(62) The proportions of the various starting compositions 20.sub.i may also be adjusted by obtaining a greater or smaller actuating strokes in pumps. Such actuation may be performed by the user for the purpose of dispensing the preparation, and each stroke may be associated with respective different starting compositions 20.sub.i.

(63) For example, pumps according to some embodiments of the present disclosure may have control rods for pushing in, and one of the rods may be actuated over a constant stroke to dispense a neutral composition from one of the reservoirs 21 and 22. Further another rod may be actuated over a variable stroke to dispense an active agent from another reservoir, the active agent being mixed with the neutral composition. The variable stroke may be obtained, for example, by a transmission element under the control of a motor. Dispensing may also be performed by acting on one or more pistons associated with reservoir 21 and 22, by moving the pistons over greater or smaller strokes.

(64) FIG. 16 shows an exemplary configuration according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, wherein system 10 includes a display 70 suitable for displaying a recommendation for adjustment as a function of the received data and possibly as a function of data coming from various sensors and/or user preferences.

(65) System 10 may include a manual adjustment member 201 enabling the concentration of active agent to be adjusted in the preparation that is dispensed. In such embodiments, operation of the device is semiautomatic. The user may actuate the adjustment member as a function of the displayed recommendations. Where desired, display 70 may form part of a base block that is separable from a composition block containing reservoirs 21 and 22, to enable the base block to be used with other compositions.

(66) FIG. 17 shows another exemplary configuration according to embodiments of the present disclosure, where system 10 supports a dispenser head 202 that may be actuated by the user in order to dispense the preparation.

(67) As shown in FIG. 18, the preparation may also be dispensed by providing the packaging and dispenser device of system 10 with a body having a deformable wall 205, e.g., enabling the inside volume of the reservoir(s) containing the starting composition(s) to be reduced.

(68) In embodiments consistent with FIGS. 17 and 18, the properties of the preparation are adjusted automatically as a function of information received by system 10.

(69) FIG. 19 shows an exemplary embodiment of system 10 providing energy desired for dispensing independent of the user. For example, system 10 may include a trigger button 208 on which the user may press in order to trigger automatic dispensing of the preparation, e.g. by actuating a pump.

(70) FIG. 20 shows another exemplary configuration consistent with embodiments of the present disclosure, wherein system 10 may have a base station 220 that includes electronic circuits, and in particular data receiver 50, optionally user interface 40, and all or part of adjustment system 30.

(71) Base station 220 may be fitted on the packaging and dispenser device that includes reservoirs 21 and 22 of starting compositions 20.sub.i, the dispenser means, and all or part of the adjustment system 30, where desired.

(72) Where desired, for example, as shown in FIG. 21, it may be possible for a common base station 220 to be associated with a plurality of packaging and dispenser devices 230, e.g. containing different compositions, e.g. one device for dispensing a preparation to provide sunscreen, one device to dispense a preparation for providing protection against the cold, etc.

(73) Base station 220 may be configured to recognize automatically the starting compositions 20.sub.i contained in reservoirs 21 and 22 of the packaging and dispenser device 230 with which it is coupled, so as to take account of the starting compositions 20.sub.i in the adjustment performed. By way of example, this recognition may take place by means of electrical contacts, an electronic chip, e.g. a radio frequency identity (RFID) chip, a mechanical feeler, and/or an optical reader, among others.

(74) FIG. 22 shows the possibility of system 10 being in two portions, namely with a packaging and dispenser device in the form of a handpiece 240, e.g. containing the various starting compositions 20.sub.i and the dispenser means, and a base station 250 capable of being separated from device 240 and containing, for example, user interface 40, display 70, and an optional data-reception antenna 255.

(75) Where desired, the base station may serve as a docking station for a mobile telephone such as, for example, an iPhone, or the like, that can act as a user interface, that can serve to receive data, and that can perform in the role of processor means 31 with or without desired software.

(76) Where desired, the packaging and dispenser device may not include electrical adjustment actuators. Actuators may be present solely in the base station, and the actuator may cooperate by mechanical transmission with an adjustment member present in the packaging and dispenser device, e.g. a valve for adjusting flow rate, or a selector.

(77) System 10 may be miniaturized, portable and hand held. Alternatively, system 10 may not be miniaturized and may be of such size as to form a bulkier station, e.g. for placing on a counter or on a shelf in the bathroom. Such a system may comprise a housing 260 suitable for releasably receiving containers 261 containing the various starting compositions 20.sub.i that can be mixed together, together with one or more ducts 265 for dispensing one or more preparations of properties that are adapted to the conditions of the surroundings as a result of the system receiving data.

(78) Where desired, the compositions may be dispensed without being mixed, by selecting which composition is to be delivered to a composition dispensing orifice. It may be desired to mix a plurality of starting compositions 20.sub.i. For example, system 10 may contain a plurality of compositions in separate containers (two or more) and depending on the information received it may determine to deliver only one of the compositions.

(79) The properties of the preparation that is dispensed may also be adjusted by exerting action on a starting composition containing a compound that is suitable for being released to a greater or lesser extent or for responding to a greater or lesser extent to a stimulus that is applied to the composition. In such embodiments, the starting composition may be contained, for example, in a single container 23 and is taken to a treatment chamber 37 where a stimulus is applied to confer the expected property to the composition, for example, as shown in FIG. 14.

(80) FIG. 25 is a diagram showing a portion of an exemplary system 10, in which a composition contained in a reservoir 23 may be dispensed in a predefined quantity into a treatment chamber 37. In some embodiments, this dispensing may be performed via a dip tube 382 that projects into the bottom of the chamber 37 and that enables surplus composition to be returned down to the reservoir 23. The composition may be pumped into the chamber 37 by composition-taking means 385, e.g. a pump, means for pressurizing the space above the composition in the chamber, or by turning the device upside-down. A system 390 serves to expose the composition contained in the chamber to a stimulus in a controlled manner so as to modify its properties. For example, the chamber may contain a heater resistance element or UV lighting system, for the purpose of releasing an active agent held captive in a thermo fusible compound, or to release an active agent previously deactivated by a photolabile function.

(81) FIG. 26 shows an exemplary configuration consistent with embodiments of the present disclosure, wherein a plurality of systems 10 of the disclosure that may receive data from a remote server 80, which may itself receive information from a weather forecast server 83, for example. Systems 10 may receive information associated with the starting compositions 20.sub.i from which the preparation dispensed by each of the plurality of systems 10 is prepared. In accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure, each system 10 may receive data relating to present or future conditions of the surroundings, for a given location of system 10.

(82) In some embodiments, e.g., as shown in FIG. 28, the packaging and dispenser device has two reservoirs containing the starting compositions 20.sub.i and connected to two outlet ducts 210 and 220, e.g. two flexible tubes of plastics material having a diameter of 3 mm and a length of 25 mm. One of the ducts 210 may be permanently open while the other duct 220 may be closed to a variable extent by a pinch valve, e.g. including a wire 230, as shown in FIG. 28, e.g. a piano wire having a section of 1 mm and a length of 3 centimeters (cm). Wire 230 is positioned in prestressed manner so as to flatten the duct against a rigid stationary part 240 of the device, e.g. a part that also supports the other duct 210. The natural elasticity of wire 230 is sufficient to pinch the duct 220 at rest so as to prevent the composition from passing therethrough, particularly when the user presses on the corresponding reservoir.

(83) In such embodiments, the other end of wire 230 may be engaged in a small toothed wheel 250 having a slot. Wheel 250 is driven by a motor 260, e.g., a direct current (DC) motor, and a gear train 270 configured to increase a torque delivered by motor 260 in proportion to the electrical current.

(84) When motor 260 is powered, it transmits its torque to the wheel 250, which pulls on wire 230 and moves it away from stationary part 240. The higher the current delivered to motor 260, the less wire 230 flattens the duct 220, thereby enabling more composition to pass if the user presses on the second reservoir. When motor 260 is no longer powered, the elasticity of wire 230 returns it to press again against duct 220, which it flattens against the stationary part 240.

(85) The energy needed to deliver the starting compositions 20.sub.i may be provided, for example, by the user pressing on two flexible reservoirs. Thus, in such embodiments, no liquid leaves the reservoirs or passes along the outlet ducts unless the user presses on the reservoir.

(86) In some embodiments, for example, as shown in FIG. 29, the packaging and dispenser device may have three flexible-walled reservoirs, containing respective starting compositions 20.sub.i. Each flexible-walled reservoir is provided with a delivery duct, all three of the these ducts 310, 320, and 330 opening out, for example, at a spacing of 4 mm from one another. Thus, when the three starting compositions 20.sub.i are delivered, the user receives a mixture made by the three compositions coming into contact.

(87) In some embodiments, each duct may be formed by a flexible plastic tube having a diameter of 3 mm and a length of 25 mm. The ducts 320 and 330 associated respectively with the second and third reservoirs may be held by a rigid part 350 of the device that is stationary relative to the reservoir, as shown in FIG. 29.

(88) In such embodiments, the device may include a pair 300 of cams, in which the two cams 301 and 302 are offset and located in front of the ducts 320 and 330. In the rest position, the two cams 301 and 302 compress the two ducts 320 and 330. When the shaft carrying the cam pair 300 turns, the first cam 301 releases the corresponding duct 320. Thereafter, if the shaft of the cam pair continues to turn, the second cam releases the other duct.

(89) In such embodiments, the energy for delivering the compositions may also be provided by the user delivering pressure by compressing the two flexible reservoirs. Thus, no composition leaves the reservoirs and passes along the ducts unless the user squeezes the reservoirs.

(90) FIG. 31 shows another exemplary configuration according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. System 10 may include two compartments (e.g., flexible container) in which starting compositions 20.sub.i may be stored. System 10 may further include a closure cap, on or more surroundings sensors (e.g., UV sensor), a trigger/measure button, and servo motors.

(91) In such a configuration, closure cap may be configured to be affixed to system 10, so as to close system 10, and/or packaging and dispensing device, substantially or completely from the air, for example to prevent drying or damage. Closure cap may be of any suitable variety, for example, screw on, snap on, hinged, etc.

(92) Further, surroundings sensors 61 may be located on system 10 and/or packaging and dispensing device, such that upon affixing closure cap to system 10 and or packaging and dispensing device, surrounding sensors 61 may be substantially protected from damage and/or exposure to unwanted substances (e.g., finger smudges).

(93) Trigger/measure button may be of any variety switch and may further be implemented as a tactile element on display 70, as desired. Trigger/measure button may enable functioning of system 10 (e.g., take measurements, receive data, dispense desired preparation, etc.) upon user actuation.

(94) Servo motors may be linked to processor means 31 to enable processor means 31 to provide control to servo motors. Servo motors may further be configured to enable taking up starting composition from the compartments. Therefore, servo motors, and/or pumps associated therewith, may be in optional fluid communication with the internal sections of the compartments. Upon actuation of servo motors, starting composition may be drawn from one or more of the compartments, proportional to the operation of the respective servo motor.

Example 1

(95) In this example, the system receives data from a home weather station 500, as shown in FIG. 30, and desires to dispense a care product.

(96) An electronic circuit is provided as shown in FIG. 27 that comprises a receiver, e.g. constituted by a Bluetooth receiver module, carrying an antenna and an RS232 universal asynchronous receiver/transmitter (UART) component, processor means 31 including a microcontroller including a digital-to-analog converter, a 48 kilobyte (KB) electrically-erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), and an amplifier module including an AD 8017 power amplifier in a negative feedback configuration and powering a motor. A trigger button 400 is mounted at the output from the power amplifier.

(97) By way of example, the adjustment system is that described with reference to FIG. 28, the motor being controlled by a voltage U. By way of example, the microcontroller has a program stored in the EEPROM serving to convert RS232 digital signals into a voltage analog output for activating the motor via the power module.

(98) The electronic circuit with the above-described components may be adhesively bonded to the top of the device, for example, together with the trigger button that is presented on top. A protective cap may cover the top of the packaging and dispenser device, so as to avoid dirtying.

(99) The home weather station may be a PTU 200 weather station manufactured by the supplier Vaisala, having a humidity sensor, a pressure sensor, and a temperature sensor that may be located outdoors (balcony, garden, . . . ), or indoors. If located indoors, the temperature and humidity sensors may be located remotely therefrom. The digital output from the weather station is connected to a Bluetooth transmitter module. The weather station is programmed to send the temperature, pressure, and humidity at regular intervals, e.g. once per minute.

(100) The packaging and dispenser device has two reservoirs containing the starting compositions 20.sub.i. In the present example, the first reservoir is filled with an emulsion containing 30% glycerin and the second reservoir is filled emulsion containing 10% talc, with neutral components making up the remainder to 100%.

(101) The program of the microcontroller may be designed, for example, to extract the temperature data from the data received by the Bluetooth module. The temperature data T (expressed in C.) is processed for example using the following function:
U=K(T+10) with K=0.1
and
U=0 if T<10 C.
U being the voltage delivered to the motor.

(102) To deliver the preparation, the user squeezes the flexible reservoirs while pressing with a finger on the trigger button.

(103) A preparation, characteristics of which may be varied, is then dispensed based on the sensed outside temperature. For example, concentrations in the mixture of the two starting compositions 20.sub.i may be relatively high in glycerin and relatively low in talc if the outside temperature is relatively low, or relatively low in glycerin and relatively high in talc if the temperature is relatively high. High and low temperatures being defined generally based on an area in which the device is located. For example, low temperatures may mean below freezing (0 degrees C.) while high temperatures may mean above about 25 degrees C.

(104) System 10 may adapt directly to current conditions of the surroundings, to improve and/or optimize comfort and the effect on the skin.

(105) The following day, the user may use the same system. If the temperature is different, then the mixture delivered by the system may change accordingly.

Example 2

(106) In this example, the first reservoir is filled with an emulsion containing 30% glycerin, and 2% sun filter, and the second reservoir is filled with an emulsion containing 20% sun filter, the remainder to 100% being made up by neutral materials.

(107) The program of the microcontroller is designed to extract the temperature and pressure data from the data received by the Bluetooth module and to process the temperature and pressure data T and P (expressed in bars) on the basis of the following function:
U=0.1(T+10)+20(1P)
and
U=0 if 0.1T10P<21

(108) Depending on the sensed outside temperature and pressure, characteristics of the dispensed preparation may change, e.g., the mixture of the two liquids may vary in glycerin and sun filter.

(109) If the pressure is low (e.g., 0.9 bar or below) and the temperature is moderate (e.g., about 20 C.), the mixture is relatively rich in sun filter because the user is likely to encounter strong sunlight, which may be particularly dangerous because of high altitude. Therefore, it is desirable to protect the user against UV radiation.

(110) If the pressure is low (e.g., 0.9 bar or below) and the temperature is low (e.g., 20 C.), the mixture is rich in glycerin and contains relatively low amounts of sun filter, because the user is likely at altitude and protected by a mass of clouds and/or in low sunlight conditions as a result of being early or late in the day. It may thus be desirable to provide the user with protection against the cold, while also providing a small amount of sun filter.

(111) If the pressure is normal (e.g., around 1 bar) and the temperature is moderate (e.g., about 20 C.), the mixture is intermediately mixed between the glycerin and the sun filter. This may be because it is likely that sunlight is moderate given the low altitude and a temperature that is reasonable for low altitude.

(112) If the pressure is normal (e.g., around 1 bar) and the temperature is low (e.g, 20 C.), then the mixture is rich in glycerin. It is desirable to provide protection against the cold.

(113) If the pressure is normal (e.g., around 1 bar) and the temperature is high (e.g., 40 C.), then the mixture is relatively high in sun filter. Under such conditions, the user is likely subjected to a large amount of sunlight. The following day, the user may use the same system. If conditions have changed, the mixture delivered by the system may change accordingly.

Example 3

(114) In this example, the first reservoir is filled with a micro-emulsion of a nourishing agent (e.g., hydrocarbon oil) and the second reservoir with an emulsion containing a moisturizing agent (e.g., glycerin.)

(115) The program of the microcontroller is designed to extract the temperature and humidity data from the data received by the Bluetooth module and to recalculate the humidity data on the basis of the following function: RH=measured relative humidity, with a ceiling of 60%
in other words, if the measured humidity >60%, then RH=60.

(116) The temperature and humidity data T and RH (expressed in units in the range 0 to 60) is processed on the basis of the following function:
U=0.1(T)+0.1(40RH)+1

(117) If the value of U is negative, then U is set at 0, and if the value of U is greater than 5, then U is set at 5.

(118) If the temperature is high (e.g., 30 C. or higher) and the relative humidity is high (e.g., 60% or more), then the mixture is rich in nourishing agent.

(119) If the temperature is high (e.g., 30 C. or higher) and the relative humidity is low (e.g., 20% or less), then the mixture is rich in moisturizing agent.

(120) If the temperature is low (e.g., 0 C. or less) and the relative humidity is high (e.g., 60% or more), then the mixture is rich in nourishing agent.

(121) If the temperature is low (e.g., 0 C. or less) and the relative humidity is moderate (e.g., about 20%), then the mixture is intermediate, containing relatively similar concentrations of both nourishing agent and moisturizing agent.

Example 4

(122) In this example, the system receives data from a remote server.

(123) By way of example, the server is based on AMD Opteron processors, but any suitable server processor configuration may be suitable. The server is configured to establish a multitude of connections with individual terminals.

(124) The remote server is also connected to the Internet and provided with software enabling it to act via client-server or other suitable connections with established meteorological servers on the web to collect information by geographical region, e.g. concerning temperature, sunlight, pollution, wind, both present and forecast, e.g. for the day.

(125) The remote server may sort this information and interpolate missing data, for example, placing it in a table T.

(126) The server may receive connection requests from the devices over the Internet.

(127) In this example, the system comprises a base station in the form of an individual terminal, having a rechargeable power supply, e.g. an embedded PC of the PC 104 type, together with an operating system and a small touch screen.

(128) By way of example, the individual terminal is fitted with an RJ45 wired Internet communications module, and a WiFi module and/or a Bluetooth module enabling it to communicate with one or more systems according to exemplary embodiments of the disclosure.

(129) The individual terminal may be provided with software for reading data input by the user via the touch screen, e.g. the geographical location of the user (region and altitude), personal data concerning the user, e.g. hair length, hair color, hair state, skin type, tanning, type of activity, in particular working outdoors, working indoors, holidays/vacations.

(130) The individual terminal may store this data in its memory, thus enabling the user to modify the data, and it may regularly make a connection with the remote server. The Internet address of the remote server may be recorded in the memory of the individual terminal so that the connection is established automatically.

(131) The individual terminal may be arranged to download from the remote server a fraction of the table T that contains present and forecast meteorological data corresponding to the user's region.

(132) The individual terminal may also be arranged to modify the meteorological data with an altitude factor, or for example to lower temperatures by 1 C. for every 100 meters (m) of altitude, or to calculate a perceived temperature on the basis of actual temperature and a wind speed chill factor.

(133) The individual terminal may use the Bluetooth connection, for example, to make contact with the packaging and dispenser device(s) for dispensing a preparation.

(134) The individual terminal is informed about the nature of the starting composition(s) of the device with which it exchanges information, so it is in a position to determine what mixtures need to be prepared on the basis of the present or forecast meteorological data. The calculation algorithms may differ depending on the preparations.

(135) For a sunscreen, the calculation may be as follows. At the time a connection is made between the individual terminal and the device, the mixture calculation takes account of a level of sunlight E, e.g. on a scale 0 to 10. The level E used is equal to the present level of sunlight if the connection takes place between noon and 3:00 PM. It is equal to 50% of the present level if the connection takes place between 4:00 PM and 5:00 PM. It is equal to 25% of the present level if the connection takes place after 5:00 PM. It is equal to the forecast level if the connection takes place before noon.

(136) The mixing ratio M is equal to the level of sunlight E multiplied by a factor S that takes account of the month, e.g., S=0.25 for months in the range November to March, S=0.5 in the months April, May, and October, and S=1 for the months of June, July, August, and September. The result is then multiplied by a factor A that depends on altitude, with A=0.5 below 1000 m, A=0.75 in the range 1000 m to 2000 m, and A=1 above 2000 m.

(137) The information relating to the mixing ratio M is delivered to the device for dispensing the sunscreen preparation that may be of the same kind as described in Example 1.

(138) In exemplary embodiments, when the protective cap is removed, the device containing the starting compositions 20.sub.i sends a connection request to the individual terminal. The terminal identifies the starting compositions 20.sub.i e.g. on the basis of an identifier of the device and/or of the starting compositions 20.sub.i.

(139) By way of example, for a sunscreen preparation, the two reservoirs may contain respectively an emulsion without sun filter and an emulsion containing 20% sun filter.

(140) The microcontroller of the device is programmed to convert the information relating to the mixing ratio M into a voltage that is proportional to M, lying in the range 0 to 5 V, which voltage is used to control the motor of the adjustment system.

(141) Thus, in use, when the device is connected to the individual terminal, and the user squeezes the reservoirs, characteristics of the dispensed preparation may be varied, e.g., to create a mixture that is rich to a greater or lesser extent in sun filter. The quantity of filter is improved and/or optimized to provide desired protection against the sun.

Other Examples

(142) In a similar manner, systems may be provided that contain compositions for protecting the skin, the hair, antiperspirants, and hair control compositions, among others.

(143) The calculation may take into account not only data concerning the surroundings, but also individual data in order to optimize the mixtures, e.g. when making calculations concerning hair care, account may be taken of the length and the type of the hair, when making calculations concerning hair protection, account may be taken of the color of its tinting, when performing calculations concerning skin care, account may be taken of a person's age, when performing calculations concerning protection against the sun, account may be taken of a person's age and skin color, and when performing calculations for an antiperspirant, account may be taken of the user's activity and/or current level of perspiration.

(144) The disclosure is not limited to the examples described above, and the implementation features thereof may be combined with one another in variants that are not shown without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, it may optionally be possible to override the system in order to reproduce a mixture from a stored (e.g., previously programmed and saved) formula or a mixture as desired by the user.

(145) The system may be arranged to warn the user of the need to reapply the preparation or to review the mixture, e.g. if the system detects that conditions have changed and/or where a clock indicates a determined amount of time has passed.

(146) Throughout the description, including the claims, the term comprising a should be understood as being synonymous with comprising at least one unless otherwise stated. In addition, any range set forth in the description, including the claims should be understood as including its end value(s) unless otherwise stated.

(147) Although the present invention herein has been described with reference to particular embodiments, it is to be understood that these embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles and applications of the present invention. It is therefore to be understood that numerous modifications may be made to the illustrative embodiments and that other arrangements may be devised without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.