Electric shaver with imaging capability

Abstract

System and method for improving the shaving experience by providing improved visibility of the skin shaving area. A digital camera is integrated with the electric shaver for close image capturing of shaving area, and displaying it on a display unit. The display unit can be integral part of the electric shaver casing, or housed in a separated device which receives the image via a communication channel. The communication channel can be wireless (using radio, audio or light) or wired, such as dedicated cabling or using powerline communication. A light source is used to better illuminate the shaving area. Video compression and digital image processing techniques are used for providing for improved shaving results. The wired communication medium can simultaneously be used also for carrying power from the electric shaver assembly to the display unit, or from the display unit to the electric shaver.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION[0001]This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 11 / 141,599, filed on Dec. 30, 2008, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0002]The present invention relates generally to electric shavers having electronic imaging functions.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0003]Razors are known as a bladed tool primarily used in the shaving off of unwanted body hair. Electric shavers are known as an alternative to razors for removal of hair and / or slicing hair down to the level of the skin. Such shavers are commonly used by men to remove their facial hair (such as beard, mustache and whiskers) and by women to remove their leg, underarm and other hair. Electric shavers, also known as ‘electric razors’ or ‘electric dry shavers’, commonly include of a set of oscillating or rotating blades, which are held behind a perforated metal foil that prevents the blades from coming into contact with the skin...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention is a method and apparatus for using a digital camera to capture images of a shaving area and display them on a screen. This technology is integrated into an electric shaver, allowing for easy capture and display of shaving images. The captured images can be analyzed and displayed on the screen for better shaving performance. The display can be a separate device or a part of the electric shaver itself. The communication between the electric shaver and display can be wireless, using various technologies such as WLAN, WPAN, WMAN, WAN, BWA, LMDS, and more. The invention also includes features such as zooming, still image capturing, video capturing, and various controls for the user. The camera and display can be powered from the same battery or through a separate power source. The captured image can be transmitted from the electric shaver using a standard analog or digital video interface. Overall, the invention provides a more convenient and effective way to improve shaving performance.

Problems solved by technology

In many cases, such as in a facial shaving, direct eye-contact during shaving cannot be made, and a mirror needs to be used.

However, a mirror may not be available in all locations.

Further, in the case of a foggy or dark environment, the image in the mirror cannot be seen well.

Further, the hand holding the shaver and the shaver unit itself may hide and interfere with the required image of the shaving area.

Images