CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/295243, filed December 30, 2021, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/310342 filed February 15, 2022, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/295313, filed December 30, 2021, French Application No. 2202878, filed March 30, 2022, and French Application No. 2202879, filed March 30, 2022, the entire disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein in their entirety for all purposes.

SUMMARY

This is a system for enabling hair care and personalized hair care formulas for use at home based on a specialized dispenser that allows ingredients for a hair care product to be instantly blended into a user’s preferred end result and then conveniently transported for portability. In one embodiment, the dispensed formulation can be dispensed inside a dispensing container that can then be placed inside distributor for use in a bathroom or shower.

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

In one aspect, a system for dispensing hair care, the system comprising a dispensing device, at least one cartridge containing a hair care material configured to fit inside the dispensing device, and a dispensing container removably attached to the dispensing device wherein the dispensing container is configured to accept a portioned amount of the hair care material from the at least one cartridge is disclosed.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing aspects and many of the attendant advantages of this invention will become more readily appreciated as the same become better understood by reference to the following detailed description, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein: FIGURES 1A-1D are overall perspective views of example hair care dispensing devices, in accordance with the present technology;

FIGURE 2 is an example cartridge, in accordance with the present technology;

FIGURE 3 is a top-down view of an example base of a dispenser device, in accordance with the present technology;

FIGURE 4 is an exploded view of an example dispensing container, in accordance with the present technology;

FIGURES 5A-5C are top-down views of example dispensing containers, in accordance with the present technology;

FIGURES 6A-6C are examples of hair care dispensing systems, in accordance with the present technology;

FIGURE 7A is an overall perspective view of an example distributor, in accordance with the present technology;

FIGURE 7B is an internal view of an example distributor, in accordance with the present technology;

FIGURE 8 is a diagram representing an example sequence of primary processes of a hair care formulation method, in accordance with the present technology;

FIGURE 9 is a process diagram representing an example a process of selecting a hair care formulation, in accordance with the present technology;

FIGURE 10 is a diagram representing an example of a connected hair care dispensing system, in accordance with the present technology;

FIGURE 11 is an example system for dispensing hair care formulations, in accordance with the present technology;

FIGURE 12 is an example system for dispensing hair color, in accordance with the present technology;

FIGURE 13 is an example system for dispensing hair formulations, in accordance with the present technology;

FIGURE 14 is an example system for dispensing hair formulations, in accordance with the present technology; and

FIGURE 15 is an example hair care regimen as prescribed by a hair care dispensing system, in accordance with the present technology. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the drawings, like reference numerals designate identical or corresponding parts throughout the several views. Further, as used herein, the words “a”, “an” and the like generally carry a meaning of “one or more”, unless stated otherwise.

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

Selecting hair care formulations is a common activity often relying on subjective decision making and manual input. There are a wide variety of available hair care materials, and countless combinations and permutations of possible hair care formulations.

For each occasion where hair care formulations are used, subjective decisions are often made by an end user of the hair care to produce hair care formulations suited to their needs. Outcomes are generally a result of experimentation, perhaps requiring multiple iterations to produce a satisfactory outcome. Partly due to limited awareness of specific traits of the base hair care materials and necessary proportions, resulting hair care formulations may lack precision. The repeatability of producing a specific hair care formulation is thus difficult to accomplish. The below embodiments address these problems in the conventional art.

Specifically, the description below relates to a system for enabling the personalization of hair care for use at home, based upon a specialized dispensing device and dispensing container that allows for ingredients for hair care products to be blended into a user’s preferred result and then either applied with the dispensing container itself, or conveniently placed inside a distributor for use in the user’s bathroom, shower, or while on the go.

The system disclosed below is an Al-enabled, motorized cartridge system that creates personalized hair care formulations. In operation, the user may take a photo, or upload a photo, of their hair with a smartphone camera and open an app on the smartphone. In some embodiments, the app uses Al to analyze the user’s overall hair condition, damage, color, copper content, lice presence, moisture, texture, and/or dandruff presence. In some embodiments, the app also assesses environmental conditions that can influence the state of the user’s hair. Example conditions include, but are not limited to, UV index, air quality, pollen, weather, temperature, and humidity. In some embodiments, the user can select specific hair concerns, such as moisture, curl, texture, UV protection, or color. In some embodiments, the user selection may include a quiz, giving the user a set of prompts to respond to in order to determine what products would work best for their specific needs. In some embodiments, the app may provide suggestions based only on the data analyzed in the photo. In some embodiments, the app creates a regimen of hair care products. In some embodiments, this hair care regimen could be a daily recommendation. In other embodiments, this regimen could be a weekly regimen of recommended products.

With regular use, the Al platform can assess the appearance of a user’s hair over time, helping users identify what is working, and calibrating future formulas. The AI- powered system can optimize the efficacy of personalized formulas. By taking photos regularly, users enable the smart system to recognize the formulas effects and adjust the dosage of active ingredients accordingly. However, in some embodiments, the user can override the system recommendations if they are seeking a specific product.

The hair care formulations may have the capability of incorporating real-time trend information as well as color-matching technology, in the case of hair dye and root touch ups, into its personalized product offerings as described below. In some embodiments, a user can create their own custom hair dyes or hair care formulations based on their person features such as skin tone and eye color, and preferences.

In some embodiments, the dispensing system is configured to accept three cartridges containing hair care material, but in other embodiments, the number of cartridges can be larger or smaller. In some embodiments, the cartridges slide into the dispensing device. In some embodiments, the cartridges click into the dispensing device. In some embodiments, the cartridges may contain one or more active ingredients beneficial for hair care, such as zinc oxide, tea tree oil, etc. In some embodiments, the cartridges are color coded or shaped in a specific manner to allow a user to better distinguish them from one another. In some embodiments, the cartridges are RFID or QR coded so that the dispensing device can determine what hair care material is inside the cartridge.

In some embodiments, a personalized blend of high-performance hair care is then dispensed in a portioned dose at the top of the device, into a dispensing container. In some embodiments, the dose is a single dose for a single application. In some embodiments, this is enough doses for a weekly number of applications, such as seven doses for the week.

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

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

In one aspect, a system for dispensing hair care, the system including a dispensing device, at least one cartridge containing a hair care material configured to fit inside the dispensing device, and a dispensing container removably attached to the dispensing device wherein the dispensing container is configured to accept a portioned amount of the hair care material from the at least one cartridge is disclosed.

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

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

In some embodiments, the dispensing container further includes an applicator. In some embodiments, the dispensing container further comprises an applicator acceptor configured to hold the applicator. In some embodiments, the applicator is a brush. In some embodiments, the applicator is a wand with bristles. In some embodiments, the dispensing container further comprises two or more compartments for receiving the hair care material. In some embodiments, the dispensing container is configured to accept a first portioned amount of a first hair care material from a first cartridge in a first compartment and a second portioned amount of a second hair care material, different from the first hair care material, from a second cartridge into a second compartment. In some embodiments, the two or more compartments are configured to accept the hair care material from two or more cartridges so that the two or more hair care materials mix in a single compartment. In some embodiments, the two or more compartments are shaped distinctly from one another. In some embodiments, the two or more compartments are colored distinctly from one another.

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

In another aspect, a system for dispensing hair care formulations including one or more cartridges containing one or more hair care formulas, a communication device that includes processing circuitry configured to take a photo of a user’s hair, upload the photo into an application on a communication device, apply an algorithm to the photo to detect one or more hair features, sense one or more environmental conditions with one or more sensors, recommend a hair care treatment regimen of one or more hair care formulas based on the one or more hair features, and the one or more environmental conditions; and a dispensing device configured to dispense one or more hair care formulas from the one or more cartridges based on the hair care treatment regimen.

In some embodiments, the processing circuity is further configured to set up a user profile before taking a photo of a user’s hair. In some embodiments, setting up the user’s profile includes answering a user questionnaire, where the user questionnaire gives the user a series of inputs, and where the series of inputs include past hair treatment, desired hair quality, or hair concern. In some embodiments, the processing circuitry is further configured to diagnose one or more hair conditions with an Al algorithm. In some embodiments, recommending the hair care regimen further comprises creating the hair care regimen based on one or more other users with similar hair features, environmental conditions, or a combination of both. In some embodiments, recommending the hair care regimen further comprises analyzing the one or more hair care formulas to ensure there are no adverse interactions between the one or more hair care formulas. In some embodiments, recommending the hair care regimen further comprises analyzing the one or more hair care formulas and the one or more hair features of the user to ensure there are no adverse interactions between the one or more hair care formulas and the user’s hair.

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

In some embodiments, the processing circuitry is further configured to share the adjusted recipe with other users with similar hair features in the same localization. In some embodiments, the hair treatment regimen is a daily hair treatment regimen. In some embodiments, the hair treatment regimen is a weekly hair treatment regimen. In some embodiments, the one or more hair care formulas are dispensed separately from one another to prevent mixing.

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

In another aspect, a method of providing a hair care recommendation with the system as described herein, the method including taking a photo of a user’s hair, uploading the photo into an application on the communication device, applying an algorithm to the photo to detect one or more hair features, sensing one or more environmental conditions with one or more sensors, recommending a hair care treatment regimen of one or more hair care formulas based on the one or more hair features, and the one or more environmental conditions, and dispensing one or more hair care formulations from the hair care dispenser based on the hair care treatment regimen is disclosed.

In some embodiments, the method further includes setting up a user profile. In some embodiments, setting up the user’s profile includes answering a user questionnaire, wherein the user questionnaire gives the user a series of inputs, and wherein the series of inputs include past hair treatment, desired hair quality, or hair concern. In some embodiments, the method further comprises diagnosing one or more hair conditions with an Al algorithm. In some embodiments, recommending of the hair care regimen further includes creating the hair care regimen based on one or more other user’s regimens with similar hair features, environmental conditions, or a combination of both. In some embodiments, recommending of the hair care regimen further includes analyzing the one or more hair care formulations to ensure there are no adverse interactions between the one or more hair care formulations themselves, and the user’s hair. In some embodiments, the method further includes accepting user feedback of the user’s favorite formulations to improve the algorithm.

In some embodiments, the method further includes adjusting a recipe of the one or more hair care formulas based on a daily air quality determination. In some embodiments, the method further includes adjusting a recipe of the one or more hair care formulas based on a daily UV exposure determination. In some embodiments, the method further includes sharing the adjusted recipe to other users with similar hair features in the same localization.

In yet another aspect, a system for dispensing hair color, including one or more cartridges containing one or more hair colors, a communication device that includes processing circuitry configured to take a photo of a user’s hair, upload the photo into an application on a communication device, apply an algorithm to the photo to detect one or more hair features, analyze trends on one or more social media platforms, sense one or more environmental conditions with one or more sensors, recommend a hair color based on the trends analyzed and the one or more environmental conditions sensed, and a dispensing device configured to dispense one or more hair colors from the one or more cartridges based on the hair care treatment regimen is disclosed.

In some embodiments, the processing circuitry is further configured to set up a user profile. In some embodiments, setting up the user’s profile includes answering a user questionnaire, wherein the user questionnaire gives the user a series of inputs, and wherein the series of inputs include past hair treatment, hair length, hair texture, desired hair color, current hair color, and desired permanence of hair color. In some embodiments, the processing circuitry is further configured to recommend one or more hair care formulations in addition to the hair color for assisting the user in dying their hair. In some embodiments, the processing circuitry is further configured to analyze the one or more hair care formulations and the one or more hair care features to ensure there are no adverse interactions between the one or more hair care formulations, the hair color, and the user’s hair. In some embodiments, the processing circuitry is further configured to accept user feedback of the user’s favorite dispensed hair color to improve the algorithm.

In some embodiments, the processing circuitry is further configured to share the hair color with other users in the same localization. In some embodiments, the processing circuitry is further configured to allow a user to virtually try on the hair color in real time. In some embodiments, virtually trying on hair color further comprises adjusting the color presented.

In yet another aspect, a method of providing a hair color with the system described herein including taking a photo of a user’s hair, uploading the photo into an application on a communication device, analyzing trends on one or more social media platforms, sensing one or more environmental conditions with one or more sensors, recommending a hair color based on the trends analyzed and the one or more environmental conditions sensed, and dispensing one or more hair colors is disclosed.

In some embodiments, the method further includes setting up a user profile. In some embodiments, setting up the user’s profile includes answering a user questionnaire, wherein the user questionnaire gives the user a series of inputs, and wherein the series of inputs include past hair treatment, hair length, hair texture, desired hair color, current hair color, and desired permanence of hair color.

In some embodiments, the method further includes recommending one or more hair care formulations in addition to the hair color for assisting the user in dying their hair.

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

In some embodiments, the method further includes accepting user feedback of the user’s favorite dispensed hair color to improve the algorithm. In some embodiments, the method further comprises sharing the hair color with other users in the same localization.

In some embodiments, the method further includes virtually trying on the hair color in real time. In some embodiments, virtually trying on hair color further includes adjusting the color presented. In some embodiments, the method further includes saving the date the hair color was dispensed, so that a reminder for touching up roots, re-dying hair, or recommending one or more colored-hair specific products is sent to the user.

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

In some embodiments, such as in FIG. 1A, the dispensing container 108 is a jar. In some embodiments, the dispensing container 108 has an opening 114 for accessing the hair care formulation. In some embodiments, the dispensing container 108 has a cap 112. In some embodiments, the cap 112 is a threaded cap. In some embodiments, a user can dispense a hair care formulation into the dispensing container 108 and secure the hair care formulation with the cap 112 so that the dispensing container 108 can be transported. In operation, a user can apply the hair care formulation with their fingers, such as in the case of a hair serum.

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

In some embodiments, such as FIG. ID, the dispensing container 108 is a rectangular prism. In some embodiments, the rectangular prism is rigid. In some embodiments, the dispensing container 108 has a hinged lid 113. In some embodiments, there is a mirror 116 disposed inside the lid 113. In operation, a user can take the dispensing container 108 with them and use the mirror 116 to ensure they are applying hair care material to their desired portion of hair.

FIG. 2 is an example cartridge, in accordance with the present technology. The cartridge 130 has a round, cylindrical body and a nozzle 160 at a first end, and a circumferential groove 270 at the second end. The nozzle 160 is further disposed near a cartridge key 132. The cartridge 130 contains and dispenses an amount of hair care material into the dispensing container 108 as needed. In some embodiments, the cartridge 130 dispenses hair care material by rotation of a cartridge gear while the cartridge 130 remains in place substantially vertically along the Y-axis. The circumferential groove 270 is used to secure the cartridge 130 inside the dispenser.

An amount of hair care material is released from the cartridge 130 through the nozzle 160 by a first rotational motion of the first end with respect to the second end of the cartridge 130. Rotational motion of the first end of the cartridge 130 in a second direction, opposite of the first rotational motion, may close the nozzle 160 of the cartridge 130.

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

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

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

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

The dispensing container 108 may have a form such that there is only one orientation by which the dispensing container 108 can connect to the hair care dispenser 100. In another example, it may be that the form of the dispensing container 108 can connect to the dispensing containerl08 in more than one orientation.

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

FIGS 5A-5C are top-down views of an example dispensing containers 108 in accordance with the present technology. In some embodiments, the dispensing container 108 includes a plurality of compartments 300. In some embodiments, the compartments 300 are distinct from one another to allow a user to determine which product is which. Examples of such distinction include, but are not limited to, the shape of the compartments 300, the color of the compartments 300, and the size or depth of the compartments 300. In some embodiments, the compartments may be labeled, such as with the type of product in each compartment 300, i.e. “shampoo”, “conditioner”, “detangler”, etc.

While FIGS 5A-5C illustrate example layouts of compartments 300, the compartments 300 can take any number of forms. While all the compartments 300 illustrated are geometric shapes, the compartments 300 can take any shape, including a curved or organic shape. Additionally, while example configurations of dispensing container base through holes 138 are illustrated, there may be any number of dispensing container base through holes 138 in any configuration, for example four dispensing container base through holes 138 arranged as four corners in a square shape.

FIG. 5A is a top-down view of an example dispensing container 108 with two compartments 300a, 300b. In some embodiments, the compartments 300a, 300b are equal in size. In some embodiments the compartments 300a, 300b are configured to accept only a single cartridge’s 130 hair care formula though a single dispensing container base through hole 138.

FIG. 5B is a top-down view of another example dispensing container with three compartments 300a, 300b, 300c. In some embodiments, the compartments 300a, 300b, 300c may be shaped distinctly from one another. In some embodiments, the compartments 300a, 300b, 300c are different sizes from one another. In some embodiments, the distinction in size of compartments 300a, 300b, 300c is directly related to the type of product being dispensed. For example, a user would only need a small amount of root touch up formulation but would need a larger amount of shampoo and conditioner. In such a case, the compartment for receiving root touch up formulation would be smaller to accommodate a smaller dose, while the compartments for shampoo and conditioner would be larger.

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

In operation, a user can remove the dispensing container 108 from the dispensing device 100 after the hair care material is dispensed. The user can then open the dispensing container 108 and view the compartments 300a, 300b, . . . 300w, selecting the hair care formula they wish to apply. In some embodiments, the compartments are configured to line up with an extruder or extruders of a distributor (as explained in FIGS 7A-7B).

FIGS 6A-6C are examples of hair care dispensing systems in accordance with the present technology. In some embodiments, the hair care dispensing system also includes an applicator 120. In some embodiments, the applicator 120 is attached to the dispensing device 100 itself, as shown in FIG. 6A. In some embodiments, the applicator 120 is a brush attachment. In some embodiments, the applicator 120 is attached to the dispensing device 100 with a magnet. In operation, a user can remove the applicator and take it with them to apply the dispensed hair care formula in another location.

In some embodiments, such as illustrated in FIG. 6B, the applicator 120 is part of the dispensing container 108. In some embodiments, the dispensing container 108 includes an applicator acceptor 220. In some embodiments, the applicator acceptor 220 is a hole. In some embodiments, the applicator acceptor 220 is a threaded hole. In some embodiments, the applicator acceptor 220 is a groove, a snap, a magnet, or any other attachment mechanism. While the applicator accepter 220 is illustrated on the side of the dispensing container 108, the applicator 220 acceptor may be on the top of the dispensing container 108 or even disposed inside the lid 113 of the dispensing container 108.

In some embodiments, the applicator 120 is a wand with bristles, such as a mascara-type applicator. In operation, the mascara-type applicator may be used to brush a portion of the user’s hair with hair care material, such as for securing fly-away or baby hairs, touching up roots of dyed hair, or spot applying a hair care formula to a target area. The user can then return the applicator 120 into the applicator accepter 220 on the dispensing container 108 to secure the hair care formula for a future use. In some embodiments, the applicator is a brush, a scoop, or other means of applying product to hair. FIG. 6C shows how the applicator 120 may fit into the dispensing container 108 when it is not in use. FIG. 7A is an overall perspective view of an example distributor 250 in accordance with the present technology. The distributor 250 may be a bottle, such as a shampoo or conditioner bottle, but may take any other number of forms, such as a squeeze tube. In some embodiments, the distributor includes an extruder 255. The extruder 255 may be a mechanical pump (such as illustrated in FIG. 7A), a solenoid pump, an opening, a sprayer, or any other means of extruding a hair care formulation. The distributor 250 may also include an attachment 260. In some embodiments, the attachment 260 is a magnet or a suction cup.

The distributor 250 includes a cavity 265 that can accept a dispensing container 108. While the cavity 265 is illustrated as a cylindrical cavity, it may take any form capable of accepting the dispensing container 108, such as a rectangular prism. In some embodiments, the dispensing container 108 is slid into the cavity 265. In some embodiments, the cavity 265 has a cover (not pictured in FIG. 7B) to further secure the dispensing container 108 into the cavity 265 of the distributor 250.

FIG. 7B is an internal view of an example distributor 250, in accordance with the present technology. As described above, a dispensing container 108 may contain an opening 114 (as illustrated in FIG. IB), or a plurality of openings 115 (as illustrated in FIG. 1C). In some embodiments, the opening 114 is on the top of the dispensing container 108, but it may be on any side of a dispensing container 108. In some embodiments, the opening 114 or the plurality of openings 115 may be configured to accept one or more extruder 255. In some embodiments, the plurality of openings 115 line up with the compartments 300 in the dispensing container 108, so that in operation, the extruders 225 line up with the compartments 300 in the dispensing container 108 and each extrude a different hair care material.

As illustrated in FIG. 7B, a dispensing container 108 with an opening 114, may be placed inside the cavity 265 of the distributor 250. The opening 114 of the dispensing container 108 lines up with the extruder 255 so that the extruder 255 can extrude one or more hair care formulas from the dispensing container 108. In some embodiments, there may be more than one extruder 255, for example, two or more mechanical pumps, for extruding two or more hair care formulas.

In operation, a user can use the attachment 260 to secure the distributor to a location, such as a wall, mirror, or shower/tub. The user can then extrude the hair care material at this desired location. For example, a user may dispense a shampoo formulation into the dispensing container 108. The user may then secure the dispensing container 108 into the cavity 265 of a distributor 250 so that an opening 115 in the dispensing container 108 lines up with an extruder 255 (such as a mechanical pump) in the distributor 250. The user can then attach the distributor 250 to the wall of their shower with the attachment 260 and use the extruder 255 to extrude the shampoo from the dispensing container 108 into their hand or onto their hair.

FIG. 8 is a diagram representing an example sequence of primary processes of a hair care formulation method 400, in accordance with the present technology. The examples provided herein each have three cartridges 114, though the same process may be used by hair care dispenser 100 equipped with any number of cartridges 114. The hair care formulation method 400 includes a detecting process S410, a selecting process S420, and a dispensing process S430. An additional mixing process S440 may be performed by a user.

The detecting processes S410, the selecting process S420, and the dispensing process S430 are performed by the hair care dispensing device 100 based on commands received from a controller, (not shown) the controller sending data to and receiving input from the user through the smart device 300 (as illustrated in FIG. 10) or by indicators on the hair care dispensing device 100 itself.

FIG. 9 is a process diagram representing an example of a process S420 of selecting a hair care formulation, in accordance with the present technology. S420 includes a process for selecting a hair care formulation. The process S420 includes steps of identifying the possible combinations of hair care formulations based on the type and quantities of hair care materials present within the hair care dispenser 100, as established by the detecting process S410.

In an embodiment, the process S420 includes a step 422a for the user to select a hair care formulation based on matching the color in a photo, a step 422b for the user to select a hair care formulation based on recommendations or select a hair care formulation based on another process. U.S. Pat. No. 8,634,640, describes a method for selecting a color from an image or picture in a camera or electronic device, and using color reference data to substantially match the color, and is hereby incorporated as reference in its entirety.

In an embodiment, a step 422d is based on a user selecting from a set of hair care formulations that are possible for the types and quantities of hair care material present within the hair care dispenser 100, or a step 422c allows the user to choose from a larger set of hair care material inventory 204 that is possible for types and quantities of hair care materials the hair care dispenser 100 is capable of using.

In another example, a step 423 of process S420 includes allowing a user to choose a desired dose unit 118. Varying the dose unit 118 can change the set of available hair care formulations from within the hair care dispenser 100 if a greater amount of one or more hair care materials is needed than is available to dispense a specific quantity of a dose unit 118 for a specific hair care formulation.

For example, in the case of hair color, or root touch up, if cartridge A contains yellow hair care material, cartridge B contains red hair care material, and cartridge C contains green hair care material, and there is only one dose unit 118 of cartridge A remaining, the user would not be able to choose to dispense any combination of dose units 118 and hair care formulation that requires more than one dose unit 118 of yellow hair care material.

In another embodiment, a hair diagnosis (sometimes referred herein as a hair profile) may be performed to provide a recommended plurality of predetermined qualities for the user to select based on an analysis of the user’s hair features. The hair diagnosis determines an appropriate hair care formulation for the user based on an imaging operation performed on the user’s hair.

For hair care formulations that are possible but not available based on the results of the detecting process S410, the hair care dispenser 100 may communicate to the user what hair care materials are necessary to dispense such hair care formulations.

In one example, in step 424 the user selects a dose unit 118 of a hair care formulation presently unavailable. Step 424 may determine what hair care materials, such as what type of cartridges 114 are needed to mix and dispense the selected hair care formulation.

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

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

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

FIG. 10 is a diagram representing an example of a connected hair care dispensing system, in accordance with the present technology. A system 600, which implements the hair care dispenser 100 described above, includes at least the hair care dispenser 100 and a connected communication device 300. Optionally, the system may further include one or more external servers 410 which are implemented as part of a cloud-computing environment. Furthermore, the system may optionally include a hair care material inventory 204 which is an inventory of possible hair care material that may be inserted into the hair care device 100.

The connected device 300 may be a personal computer (PC), a laptop computer, a PDA (Personal Digital Assistants), a smart phone, a tablet device, a UMPC (Ultra Mobile Personal Computer), a net-book, or a notebook type personal computer. In the below examples, the connected device 300 is assumed to be a tablet device, such as an Apple iPad.

The connected communication device 300 is capable of performing wireless communication with the hair care dispenser 100 by way of a wireless communication interface circuitry on the hair care dispenser 100. However, communication device 300 is also capable of having a wired connection to the hair care dispenser 100 by way of a USB interface on the apparatus 100. Additionally, each device, including the hair care dispenser 100, may communicate with each other and the external one or more devices through an internet connection via an 802.11 wireless connection to a wireless internet access point, or a physical connection to the internet access point, such as through an Ethernet interface. Each connected communication device 300 is capable of performing wireless communication with other devices, such as through a Bluetooth connection or other wireless means as well.

The connected communication device 300 is configured to receive information from a user for use in generating a hair care formulation that will be used by the hair care dispenser 100 to dispense hair care material into a dispensing container 108. FIG. 11 is an example system 700 for dispensing hair care formulations in accordance with the present technology. The system 700 includes the dispenser 710 (such as cosmetic dispenser 100), a user smartphone device 720 (such as communication device 300), and a cloud platform 730. The smartphone is shown to include two functional blocks of the smartphone application (“app”) setup 721 and the smartphone app usage 722. The smartphone app setup 721 involves establishing the initial setup information for configuring a user profile of the user, as described below. The setup information can then be utilized when the smartphone application is being used and can also be sent to the cloud platform 730 for use in sending a selection of relevant looks for the user.

Usage of the smartphone application itself may include the user actually making selections that lead to the determination of a color, quality, or amount, of hair care material and performing interactive communication with the dispenser, such as sending the recipe to the dispenser and tracking the status of the dispenser (such as inventory and remaining volume of the cartridges in the dispenser). The smartphone application also performs interactive communication with the cloud platform. For instance, the smartphone application can receive the selection of relevant looks as described above, provide direct user feedback from the user on the looks the cloud platform previously sent, and notify the cloud platform on the colors and recipes actually selected by the user and dispensed by the dispenser. Such feedback can provide a form of machine learning to the cloud platform and improve the algorithms used by the cloud platform.

FIG. 12 is an example system 800 for dispensing hair color in accordance with the present technology. In some embodiments, the example system can also dispense hair color for root touch-ups, and hair care materials associated with hair color, such as bleach and toner.

In some embodiments, the system proposes a trending hair color to the consumer after having analyzed trends on social media by combining favorite colors, taste, geolocation, favorite influencers, past selection, likes. . . etc. In some embodiments, the user can pick a color based on a look, virtually try it and adjust it if necessary to produce the formula on the spot with a connected dispenser (such as hair care dispenser 100). It is also possible to propose a color based on the user’s outfit digitalized with a selfie picture. The consumer can save their favorite colors and share it with their virtual community. In some embodiments, the user can save past dispensed colors to continue to color their hair to that desired shade.

In operation, a user smartphone ultimately delivers a recipe to the dispensing device via a smartphone application (“app”). The smartphone app interacts with both the connected dispenser and a cloud platform. Prior to a user performing normal operations (usage) of the smartphone app, the app needs to be setup 820 with setup information for configuring a user profile. The app setup can be based on the following multiple setup inputs including a questionnaire at onboarding (such as favorite color, past color treatments, length of hair, texture of hair, etc.), social media credentials (like Instagram, twitter, Facebook, TikTok, efc.), favorite influencers to suggest similar hair colors, geolocation to determine local fashion, and environment data (UV index, pollution, humidity, pollen).

The setup inputs are used during regular usage of the app on the smartphone, but they are also transmitted to a cloud platform, which may be an external server device that is connected via the Internet.

The actual usage of the smartphone app 810 includes selecting a mode for hair color selection. In the present example, the modes include a mode for selecting a social media trend recommendation by algorithms that are executed in the cloud platform (discussed below in more detail). Another mode allows the user to create their own hair color using a wide variety of color options.

Another mode may allow the user to match a hair color to their “look” based on a selfie picture. In this example, the shade and finish selection in the photo is extracted. The user can virtually try on the hair color in real time and adjust the color presented. In some embodiments, the user can decide whether or not they would like to additionally dispense other formulations for dying their hair, such as bleach or toner.

After the recipe is sent to the dispenser and the hair color shade is dispensed, the user can apply the hair color. In some embodiments, the app provides instructions on using the products in the most effective manner.

Following use of the hair color, the user can use the app to provide a feedback if she/he liked the rendering or not. The user can also save her favorite look and color to reuse later on, and the user can share the look and color on the web via a social media platform. Additionally, the user can save the fact and the date that they colored their hair so that the application can remind the user to touch-up their roots, re-dye their hair, or recommend colored-hair specific products such as color-safe shampoo and conditioner.

The cloud platform implements functions shown in 830, such as a workflow of remote algorithms and an improvement process.

In the workflow performed by the cloud platform, social media network personal accounts (influencers, most trending looks, etc.) may be scraped for data related to hair colors. The cloud platform may then perform comparisons of an extracted color with colors most liked by one or more communities of users while also taking into account the setup inputs of the user received from the user’s smartphone device. Taking into account all of the collected data, the final step is for the cloud platform to send to the user the results of the analysis in the form of the above-noted selection of relevant looks. In some embodiments, the application can analyze these inputs and ensure there are no adverse reactions from these products being mixed will occur. In some embodiments, the application may analyze the photo of the user’s hair to ensure the products will not have an adverse effect with the user’s hair. In some embodiments, the application may alert the user as to the feasibility of achieving their desired hair color (such as alerting the user that it may take multiple hair color treatments to go from black hair to blonde hair).

In the improvement process performed by the cloud platform and the smartphone app, the user can save his or her favorites looks and “like” popular colors to enrich the scraping algorithms for a relevant recommendation at a later time. The cloud platform can further aggregate the users’ feedback, and the platform can send to new users the most trending colors in their area.

The dispenser operations in block 840 are already described above, but they are summarized as follows. The dispenser receives a command to dispense a certain proportion of each cartridge. The dispenser dispenses into a dispensing container (such as dispensing container 108) and the user can mix it to obtain the desired color. In some embodiments, the dispenser can dispense other hair care formulations for helping to dye the user’s hair, such as bleach or toner. In some embodiments, the hair care formulations are dispensed separately, one formulation after the other. In some embodiments, the hair care formulations are dispensed simultaneously. The dispenser sends back inventory left of formula to the consumer app to make sure only dispensable colors are available in the UI when the user makes a selection. FIG. 13 is an example system 900 for proposing hair formulations to the user, in accordance with the present technology. The system illustrated in FIG. 13 may prescribe the most effective hair care formulation for the user based on the user’s geolocation, environmental factors, personal preferences, desired results, UV exposure, and hair features or hair diagnosis assessed with a smartphone. In some embodiments, the system manages to adjust the proportions of active ingredients to obtain the most effective recipe on a daily basis. In some embodiments, the system prescribes a hair care regimen. In some embodiments, the hair care regimen is a daily regimen. In some embodiments, the hair care regimen is a weekly regimen (as shown in FIG. 10). The user can save their favorite formulations and share them with his/her virtual community.

In operation, a user’s smartphone ultimately delivers a recipe to the dispensing device via a smartphone app. The smartphone app interacts with both the connected dispenser and a cloud platform. Prior to a user performing normal operations (usage) of the smartphone app, the app needs to be setup 910 with setup information for configuring a user profile. The app setup can be based on one or more setup inputs, including a questionnaire at onboarding (such as desired hair quality, hair length, previous hair treatments, hair concerns, etc.), hair care analysis by a hairstylist or by Al algorithms with a selfie, geolocation based on smartphone location detection function, and/or environment data (UV index, pollution, humidity, pollen, etc. .

The setup inputs are used during regular usage of the app on the smartphone, but they are also transmitted to a cloud platform, which may be an external server device that is connected via the Internet.

The actual usage of the smartphone app 920 includes collecting environmental data based on geolocation and combining it with a smartphone diagnosis assessing hair features (greasiness, gray hair, lack of shine, lice, dandruff, etc.).

In some embodiments, the user can also collect data of a UV sensor, such as a wearable UV sensor as described in U.S. Pat. No. 10,060,787, incorporated herein by reference, that will give precise measurement of the cumulated UV exposure received. Based on historical data of hair assessments and environmental factors, the app will process the ideal formulation to protect a user’s hair from overexposure to UV radiation.

In some embodiments, the app compares the user’s input and the environmental factors around the user and recommends a hair care formulation or formulations based on the choices by users with similar hair features, desired results, and environmental conditions. In some embodiments, the app ensures there will be no adverse reactions between the recommended products and the user’s hair. In some embodiments, the app ensures there will be no adverse reactions between the recommended products themselves.

When the user is satisfied with the formulation, the user can touch a button displayed on the app to dispense the formulation and an internal neural network will decompose the formulation requested into different cartridge ingredients. After the recipe is sent to the dispenser and the formulation is dispensed, the user can apply the formulation. The user can provide feedback on their favorite formulations for a specific period of time.

The cloud platform implements functions shown in 930, such as a workflow of remote algorithms and an improvement process. In the workflow performed by the cloud platform, based on environmental forecast on UV, pollen, pollution, temperature, specific notifications are sent to the app user to adjust the recipe. Additionally, given an input of the geolocation of the user, which can provide an air quality determination using a tool such as Breezometer™ and a local UV index forecast (or UV exposure obtained based on a UV sensor as described above), the cloud platform can adjust the recipe to address environmental factors such as UV exposure and air quality.

In the improvement process performed by the cloud platform and the smartphone app, the user can save their favorites recipes that are the most effective overtime or achieve the user’s desired results. The user can also share with the community their recipes.

The cloud platform can further aggregate all of the users’ feedback, and the cloud platform can send to new users the most trending formulizations in their area. In some embodiments, the cloud platform can send recommendations to other users with similar hair features in the same general locality.

The dispenser operations in block 940 are already described above, but they are summarized as follows. The dispenser receives a command to dispense a certain proportion of each cartridge. The dispenser dispenses on the top part and user can mix it to obtain the desired formulation. Finally, the dispenser sends back the inventory left of formula to the consumer app to make sure only dispensable ingredients are available in the UI when the user makes a selection. FIG. 14 is an example method 1100 for dispensing hair formulations, in accordance with the present technology. The method 1100 begins in block 1105.

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

In block 1110, one or more hair features is analyzed. The hair features may include any number of hair features, including any as described herein. Example hair features may include color, shine, greasiness, smoothness, frizz, dandruff, and the like. The method 1110 then proceeds to blocks 1150A, 1150B, 1150C, and 1150D.

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

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

In block 1125, the hair care formula or formulations are dispensed. In some embodiments, a user can actuate the device each time they wish to dispense one or more of the hair care formulas prescribed in the hair care regimen. In some embodiments, the dispensing device automatically dispenses the hair care formulas based on the hair care regimen.

FIG. 15 is an example hair care regimen 1200 as prescribed by a hair care dispensing system, in accordance with the present technology.

In some embodiments, the app recommends a hair care regimen to a user based on their previous hair treatments, hair features, and environmental conditions. A weekly regimen is illustrated, but the prescribed regimen 1200 may be of any length, such as daily or monthly.

In some embodiments, the app can use the knowledge of a user’s past treatment or use of the dispensing device to inform the regimen 1200. In some embodiments, the app can use environmental conditions of a user, such as pollution, UV exposure, and pollen. In some embodiments, the app can use hair features (such as color, texture, or length) or a hair diagnosis of the user (such as lice, greasiness, or dandruff) to inform the regimen. In some embodiments, the app can use user preferences (such as number of weekly showers or preferred products of a user). In some embodiments, the app can recommend a regimen based on a regimen for another user with similar hair features, environmental factors, and/or preferences. In some embodiments, the app can use known product recommendations and time frames of the product to inform the regimen (such as the recommendation by a manufacturer to use a hair mask in lieu of conditioner twice a week). In some embodiments, the app can use calendar data and user inputs relating to specific dates (such as a date night on a specific Friday) to inform the regimen (/.< . by prescribing a hair mask the night before, or a hair gel for styling the day of). In some embodiments, the potential for adverse reactions between the hair care products themselves, or the hair care products and the user’s hair is used to inform the regimen. In some embodiments, the app can use a combination of some or all of the described methods to create a regimen. In some embodiments, the hair care formulations are dispensed daily. In some embodiments, the hair care formulations are dispensed for the entire regimen, i.e. enough doses for the week, month, etc.

In the example illustrated in FIG. 15, an example weekly regimen 1100 has been prescribed to a user. On Monday, the user dispenses hair color, along with toner and bleach to assist in the coloring. In some embodiments, the user can inform the app that they have applied the hair color, so the app may prescribe touch-ups to the user’s dyed hair, such as shown on Sunday of the example regimen.

On Tuesday, the application prescribes color protecting shampoo and conditioner. In some embodiments, the app can use the user’s dispensing and application of hair color to inform the regimen. In some embodiments, the app can use the user’s saved preference to recommend color protecting shampoo and conditioner.

On Wednesday, the app does not prescribe any products. In some embodiments, this may be based on a user’s preferences. In some embodiments, this may be based on recommendations from a manufacturer (i.e. a specific color protecting shampoo prescribed should only be used three times a week).

On Thursday, the app prescribes a color protecting shampoo and a hair mask. Again, this may be done based on a recommendation by the manufacturer or the personal preference of the user. In some embodiments, the recommendation of the hair mask may be based on the lack of adverse reactions between the color protecting shampoo prescribed and the specific hair mask.

On Sunday, a root touch up formula is prescribed. This may also be recommended based on a recommendation from a manufacturer or the personal preference of the user.

In some embodiments, a regimen may be prescribed based on environmental factors. For example, the app may recommend a hair care formulation with zinc oxide when environmental sensors detect a certain amount of UV exposure to the user based on their location.

In some embodiments, the regimen may be prescribed based on other users with similar hair features and environmental conditions. For example, the app may prescribe a hair care formulation with zinc oxide based on the preference of another user living in the same general location.

Embodiments disclosed herein may utilize circuitry in order to implement technologies and methodologies described herein, operatively connect two or more components, generate information, determine operation conditions, control an appliance, device, or method, and/or the like. Circuitry of any type can be used. In an embodiment, circuitry includes, among other things, one or more computing devices such as a processor (e.g., a microprocessor), a central processing unit (CPU), a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or the like, or any combinations thereof, and can include discrete digital or analog circuit elements or electronics, or combinations thereof.

In an embodiment, circuitry includes one or more ASICs having a plurality of predefined logic components. In an embodiment, circuitry includes one or more FPGA having a plurality of programmable logic components. In an embodiment, circuitry includes hardware circuit implementations (e.g., implementations in analog circuitry, implementations in digital circuitry, and the like, and combinations thereof). In an embodiment, circuitry includes combinations of circuits and computer program products having software or firmware instructions stored on one or more computer readable memories that work together to cause a device to perform one or more methodologies or technologies described herein. In an embodiment, circuitry includes circuits, such as, for example, microprocessors or portions of microprocessor, that require software, firmware, and the like for operation. In an embodiment, circuitry includes an implementation comprising one or more processors or portions thereof and accompanying software, firmware, hardware, and the like. In an embodiment, circuitry includes a baseband integrated circuit or applications processor integrated circuit or a similar integrated circuit in a server, a cellular network device, other network device, or other computing device. In an embodiment, circuitry includes one or more remotely located components. In an embodiment, remotely located components are operatively connected via wireless communication. In an embodiment, remotely located components are operatively connected via one or more receivers, transmitters, transceivers, or the like.

An embodiment includes one or more data stores that, for example, store instructions or data. Non-limiting examples of one or more data stores include volatile memory (e.g., Random Access memory (RAM), Dynamic Random Access memory (DRAM), or the like), non-volatile memory (e.g., Read-Only memory (ROM), Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only memory (EEPROM), Compact Disc Read-Only memory (CD-ROM), or the like), persistent memory, or the like. Further nonlimiting examples of one or more data stores include Erasable Programmable Read-Only memory (EPROM), flash memory, or the like. The one or more data stores can be connected to, for example, one or more computing devices by one or more instructions, data, or power buses.

In an embodiment, circuitry includes one or more computer-readable media drives, interface sockets, Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports, memory card slots, or the like, and one or more input/output components such as, for example, a graphical user interface, a display, a keyboard, a keypad, a trackball, a joystick, a touch-screen, a mouse, a switch, a dial, or the like, and any other peripheral device. In an embodiment, circuitry includes one or more user input/output components that are operatively connected to at least one computing device to control (electrical, electromechanical, software- implemented, firmware-implemented, or other control, or combinations thereof) one or more aspects of the embodiment. In an embodiment, circuitry includes a computer-readable media drive or memory slot configured to accept signal -bearing medium (e.g., computer-readable memory media, computer-readable recording media, or the like). In an embodiment, a program for causing a system to execute any of the disclosed methods can be stored on, for example, a computer-readable recording medium (CRMM), a signal-bearing medium, or the like. Non-limiting examples of signal-bearing media include a recordable type medium such as any form of flash memory, magnetic tape, floppy disk, a hard disk drive, a Compact Disc (CD), a Digital Video Disk (DVD), Blu-Ray Disc, a digital tape, a computer memory, or the like, as well as transmission type medium such as a digital and/or an analog communication medium (e.g., a fiber optic cable, a waveguide, a wired communications link, a wireless communication link (e.g., transmitter, receiver, transceiver, transmission logic, reception logic, etc.). Further non-limiting examples of signal-bearing media include, but are not limited to, DVD-ROM, DVD-RAM, DVD+RW, DVD-RW, DVD-R, DVD+R, CD-ROM, Super Audio CD, CD-R, CD+R, CD+RW, CD-RW, Video Compact Discs, Super Video Discs, flash memory, magnetic tape, magneto-optic disk, MINIDISC, non-volatile memory card, EEPROM, optical disk, optical storage, RAM, ROM, system memory, web server, or the like.

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

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

The present application may include references to directions, such as “vertical,” “horizontal,” “front,” “rear,” “left,” “right,” “top,” and “bottom,” etc. These references, and other similar references in the present application, are intended to assist in helping describe and understand the particular embodiment (such as when the embodiment is positioned for use) and are not intended to limit the present disclosure to these directions or locations.

The present application may also reference quantities and numbers. Unless specifically stated, such quantities and numbers are not to be considered restrictive, but exemplary of the possible quantities or numbers associated with the present application. Also in this regard, the present application may use the term “plurality” to reference a quantity or number. In this regard, the term “plurality” is meant to be any number that is more than one, for example, two, three, four, five, etc. The term “about,” “approximately,” etc., means plus or minus 5% of the stated value. The term “based upon” means “based at least partially upon.”

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