System and method for online virtual fitting room and related services

Abstract

There is provided a method for providing virtual fitting room services, enabling users to visualise apparel items on a virtual avatar based on personalized data. The process involves obtaining a template avatar and apparel information to generate a virtual avatar. Users can select and layer apparel items, including those from e-commerce platforms, to see how they fit and appear on their avatar. The system supports iterative selection, allowing users to modify their choices over time and incorporate feedback from third parties, such as friends or stylists. Additionally, a storage and distribution network facilitates actions like delivery, cleaning, and storage management

Description

[0001] Title: System and Method for Online Virtual Fitting Room and Related Services

[0002] Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to a method for providing virtual fitting room services.

[0004] Background

[0005] Virtual fitting rooms have become increasingly popular, allowing customers to visualize apparel items on digital avatars. Traditional systems may rely on generic models that fail to accurately represent individual users’ body shapes and sizes. US 2015 / 0154691 Al 0 describes a system using 3D scanning to create a virtual representation of a user's body for garment fitting.

[0006] There is a need for more personalised virtual fitting room service that accurately reflects an individual user's wardrobe and provides actionable outcomes regarding apparel 5 management.

[0007] Summary

[0008] The present, disclosure relates to a method for providing virtual fitting room services, enabling users to visualise apparel items on a digital avatar based on personalised data.

[0009] 0 The process Involves obtaining user-specific body measurements and apparel information to generate a customized virtual avatar. The apparel information relates to one or more pieces of apparel owned by the user that may be stored at a third-party storage location. Users can select and layer apparel items, including those from e-commerce platforms, to see how they fit and appear on their avatar. The system supports iterative selection,,5 allowing users to modify their choices over time and incorporate feedback from third parties, such as friends or stylists. A storage and distribution network facilitates actions like delivery, cleaning, and storage management of the apparel items. This removes the need to store the apparel items in a user's home, whilst still allowing them to easily plan outfits and manage their clothes.

[0010] 0

[0011] According to a first aspect of the disclosure there is provided a method for providing virtual fitting room services, the method comprising: obtaining user data comprising: a first data set comprising a template avatar; and a second data set identifying a plurality of apparel items owned by the user; generating a virtual avatar of the user based on the first data 5 set; generating representations of the plurality of apparel items based on the second data set, the representations operable to modify the appearance of the virtual avatar; obtaining a selection signal identifying a subset of the apparel items; generating a modified virtual avatar by layering representations of the subset of the plurality of apparel items over the Virtual avatar; providing the modified virtual avatar for display to the user.

[0012] According to a second aspect of the disclosure there is provided an electronic device configured to perform the method.

[0013] According to a third aspect of the disclosure there is provided a computer program that, 5 when executed, causes one or more processors to perform the method.

[0014] Brief Description of the DrawingsEmbodiments of the present disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0015] Figure la is a flowchart of a method for providing virtual fitting room services:

[0016] Figure lb is a flowchart of a method for providing virtual fitting room services including performing an action based on a user request;.

[0017] Figure 2 is a representation of a virtual avatar;

[0018] Figure 3a is a representation of a virtual avatar layered with a first subset of apparel items; Figure 3b is a representation of a virtual avatar layered 'with a second subset of apparel items;

[0019] Figure 3c is a representation of a virtual avatar layered with a third subset of apparel items;

[0020] Figure 4 is block diagram representation of a service for providing storage and delivery of a user's apparel items;

[0021] Figure 5 is a block, diagram of a computing system.

[0022] Detailed Description

[0023] The storage of apparel items (e.g,, clothing, jewellery, accessories, footwear, etc.) at home may be limited by the available storage space. Where a person has a large number of apparel items, they may not be able to store them all within their home. So as to allow the person to keep a wide collection of items, a number of items may be stored remotely from the owner at a storage location owned by a third party. The owner may then retrieve the clothes from the storage location when they want to wear them. However, remote storage of apparel may make It more difficult for an owner to manage their wardrobe and plan outfits that they would like to wear.

[0024] So that the owner can determine which apparel items they would like from the storage location, a virtual fitting room service is provided in which representations of the stored apparel items are presented on a virtual avatar. The user may modify the combinations of apparel items on the virtual avatar, and then request an action, such as delivery of the apparel items. This allows a user to determine an outfit comprising one or more apparel items, including information on how the different apparel items would fit the user's body, before requesting them from storage.

[0025] Figure 1a illustrates a method 100 for providing virtual fitting room services, consisting of a series of steps that facilitate the creation and interaction with a virtual avatar based on user-specific data.

[0026] Step S102 involves obtaining or acquiring user data, which is divided into two main data sets: a first data set comprising a template avatar and a second data set detailing apparel items owned by the user.

[0027] The first data set comprises a template avatar. This template may represent an average person (for example the waist measurement of the template may be the same as the waist measurement of an average person in the user's location). The template may differ depending on the gender of the person. For example, a male user may have a different template avatar than a female user. By representing an average person, the template is easily adaptable to various body types. The template avatar may be a mesh outline of the person. The template avatar may be received from the user or retrieved from storage. HK1 806948965 1The first data set may further comprise body measurements of the user. These measurements may encompass a wide range of dimensions of the user's body, such as height, weight, chest, waist size, hip measurement, bust size, arm length, and leg length, amongst other measurements. The measurements may be provided by manual measurement of the user. Users may then input these details manually via a user interface. The same user interface may be used by the user to provide any of the data or selections described. The interface may be accessed via a web browser or a dedicated mobile application. However, other methods such as 3D body scanning may be employed to capture these measurements with high precision.

[0028] The first data set may comprise one or more images of the user. The images may be taken from different angles so as to capture different profiles or views of the user. The images may be captured using any suitable capture device. One or more dimensions or measurements of the user may be determined through analysis of the one or more images. For example, providing an image and a small number of measurements (such as height, waist, circumference) may allow the system to determine one or more further dimensions of the user, as a number of reference measurements are provided.

[0029] The second data set identifies apparel items owned by the user. This may include information such as clothing type, size, brand, colour, and style. Users may upload images of their clothing, allowing the system to analyse features and details visually. Manual entry options using a user interface may enable users to describe items that may not have images available or to specify unique characteristics not captured in photos. In some exampies, details of the apparel items (e.g., size information, measurements, image data, etc.) may be obtained from a third party source such as the manufacturer or a retailer, Identification of the apparel items may also comprise the selection of one or more apparel items from a list provided on the user interface.

[0030] Step S104 comprises the generation of a virtual avatar of the user based on the first data set.

[0031] The generation of an avatar may start with the received template avatar, which serves as a baseline model.

[0032] The virtual avatar may simply be the template avatar representing an average person. However, the template avatar may be created by modifying one or more dimensions of the template avatar to match the one or more body measurements of the user. Where the template avatar comprises a mesh comprising one or more modifiable points, these may be adapted to match the dimensions of the person (e.g., waist, breast size, arm length, inner leg length, etc.). The template avatar undergoes a series of transformations (e.g., local scale and / or translation modifications for individual body parts) to match the user's unique body measurements, such that the virtual avatar accurately reflects the user's physique.

[0033] Computational geometry techniques may be used to modify the template avatar's 3D mesh structure. The mesh, composed of interconnected vertices and edges, is manipulated toachieve the desired body shape. This may involve scaling, rotating, and translating the mesh components based on the user’s measurements.

[0034] The virtual avatar (and the template avatar used to create it) may be a 2-dimensional (2D) or 3-dimensional (3D) avatar.

[0035] Texture mapping may be used to enhance the realism of the virtual avatar. Texture mapping involves applying detailed surface images to the avatar, simulating the appearance of skin, hair, and other features. This can include using, fitting or mapping one or more images of the user from the first data set to the template avatar. Alternatively, the one or more images of the user's body may be analysed and advanced rendering techniques, such as shading, may be applied to match the features represented in the image of the user. This may add depth and realism to the avatar's appearance.

[0036] The avatar generation process may include the integration of user-specific features, such as facial features, hair style, and skin tone. These features can be customized through user input or automated detection from the one or more images of the user, The virtual avatar may be displayed to the user via one or more display or user interfaces.

[0037] The virtual avatar may be generated locally on the device of the user. As such, measurement data and other potentially sensitive data need not be uploaded to a web server to generate the virtual avatar. Alternatively, it may be generated using a cloud¬ based system, allowing user devices with limited processing power to access the virtual

[0038] Step S106 comprises generating representations of the plurality of apparel items based on the second data set. Each of the representations is operable to modify the appearance of the virtual avatar. The representations of the apparel items may be 3D models or 2D images that can be applied to the virtual avatar.

[0039] The apparel representations may be created in a similar manner to the creation of the virtual avatar, for example by modifying one or more apparel templates based on the second data set. This may comprise analysing the second data set, which may include measurements, images or text descriptions of each apparel item. Measurements such as size, length and width are used to scale the representations accurately. Images uploaded by the user can be processed using image recognition technology to capture patterns, textures, and colours, which are then applied to the representations.

[0040] Additionally, or alternatively, the representations of the apparel items may be obtained from a database of representations such that representations of apparel items which may appear in multiple users' collections may be reused across user devices. The database may be populated centrally or may obtain data directly from manufacturers and / or retailers.

[0041] The representations are operable to modify the virtual avatar's appearance. Put another way, the virtual avatar may be dressed in the one or more representations of the apparel items or the representations of the apparel items may be wearable by the virtual avatar. This may be achieved by generating the representations of the apparel in the same coordinate space or same manner as the virtual avatar.Step S108 comprises obtaining a selection signal identifying a subset of the apparel items that the user wishes to view on their virtual avatar. This allows users to visualise specific clothing items before requesting an action related to the one or more apparel items.

[0042] The selection signal may be obtained by the user interacting with the user interface designed to facilitate selection of apparel items. Users are presented with their wardrobe (the plurality of apparel items that they own and that are provided in the second data set) to select the subset from. This may be displayed as a digital catalogue comprising images and descriptions of each item.

[0043] The interface may support multiple selection methods, such as checkboxes or drag-and-drop features, enabling users to choose one or more items simultaneously. As users make their selections, the system captures these inputs as a selection signal, which is then processed to identify the apparel subset.

[0044] The interface may also offer filtering and sorting options to enhance the user experience, Users can narrow down their choices by applying filters based on criteria like clothing type, colour, or size. Sorting options may allow users to organize items by brand, recent additions to their wardrobe or any other suitable filter.

[0045] Whilst the subset of apparel items may be obtained based on user input, the subset may also be automatically generated by the system, for example to comprise a random or predetermined subset of the apparel items. The subset may additionally or alternatively comprise a subset of the apparel items that the user has previously selected in a previous session or at a previous time. In this way, the user is able to maintain a collection of outfits and efficiently recall multiple apparel items by selecting an individual outfit.

[0046] Step S110 comprises generating a modified virtual avatar by layering representations of the subset of the plurality of apparel items over the virtual avatar. Put another way, the virtual avatar is "dressed" in the representations of the subset of apparel items.

[0047] The layering process begins with the representations of the subset of the apparel items selected in the step S108. The system may ensure that the apparel items adjust to the avatar's dimensions and pose, providing a realistic fit. The apparel items may be layered on the avatar and on one another, such that part of one apparel item is presented in front of, or over the top of, another apparel item. This may be determined by the type of apparel. For example, a first apparel item such as a jacket may be layered over a second apparel item such as a blouse. The first apparel item may partially obscure the second apparei

[0048] Layering of the representations of the subset of apparel items may be governed by a set. of predefined layering rules based one or more properties of the apparel items, which dictate the order and manner in which apparel items are applied to the avatar. For instance, undergarments are layered first, followed by tops, bottoms, and outerwear. Accessories like hats, scarves, footwear, handbags and jewellery are added last. These rules ensure that the clothing items interact correctly, avoiding visual overlaps or conflicts. The layeringrules may be received from a third party or provided by the user themselves and based on the properties of the apparel items. For example, a user may download a specific set of layering rules which dictate how an outfit should be iayered / constructed. In some examples, the application may use the layering rules to select apparel items available to the user which fit the layering rules to generate an outfit for the user automatically.

[0049] The system takes into account the properties of each apparel item, such as Item type, thickness, fabric type, and design features, when applying the layers or applying the layering rules. For example, a bulky sweater may be adjusted to fit over a shirt or the collar of the shirt may emerge over the top of the sweater, ensuring that the layers blend naturally. Fabrics with transparency, for example chiffon or lace, may be represented or rendered to partially show underlying layers, enhancing realism.

[0050] Apparel items may refer to any item which may be worn by a person and may comprise clothing or accessories. The types of apparel items that can be layered include tops, shirts, blouses, jackets, jumpers, sweaters, bottoms, trousers, shorts, skirts, dresses, outerwear, coats, blazers, accessories, jewellery, hats, gloves, belts,, footwear. The system allows for flexible combinations, enabling users to experiment with different outfits and styles. By adhering to layering rules, the system provides a coherent and visually appealing representation of the user's clothing choices on the virtual avatar, enhancing the overall virtual fitting experience.

[0051] Step S112 comprises providing the modified virtual avatar for display to the user. This may comprise presenting the modified virtual avatar to the user through the user interface. This step ensures that the user can view and interact with their avatar, now adorned with the representations of the subset of apparel items, in a dynamic manner.

[0052] The user interface may display the modified virtual avatar in a central viewing area, allowing users to focus on the details of the outfit. The interface may be interactive, offering tools such as rotation controls, zoom functions, and angle adjustments. Users may rotate the modified virtual avatar to view their outfit from all sides, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of how the apparel items fit and look. The user interface may mclude customization options that allow users to adjust lighting conditions or background settings.

[0053] The user interface may also allow the user to select one or more individual apparel items layered on the virtual avatar. Once selected, the user interface may provide options to the user in relation to the selected apparel items (e.g., remove the item(s) from the virtual avatar, change the layering order of the selected item(s), swap the item(s) for other items in the user's collection, etc,).

[0054] Figure 1b is a flowchart of a method 120 for providing virtual fitting room services similar to that of Figure la. Steps S102 to S112 of Figure lb are the same as those of Figure la. Steps S114 and S116 are described below, and may be optionally performed after the modified virtual avatar has been provided for display to the user.

[0055] Step S114 comprises receiving a request signal from the user. The request signal may be obtained in any suitable way from the user, such as through the user interface. The requestsignal may request one or more actions in relation to the subset or part of the subset of apparel items represented on the modified virtual avatar.

[0056] The user may select the subset of apparel items to which the request signal relates by means of a selection process provided by the user interface. For example, the user may select all apparel items shown, or may select only some of the apparel items shown (e.g., hat and gloves).

[0057] Step SI 16 comprises outputting an action signal following receipt of the request signal triggering execution of an action in relation to the subset of the apparel items. This action signal serves as a command to execute specific actions related to the subset of apparel items selected by the user.

[0058] The action signal can trigger a variety of processes based on the user's requests. For instance, one action involves arranging for the delivery of the subset (or part of the subset) of apparel items to the user from a storage facility. This may comprise coordination with one or more logistics providers to manage the shipping details, ensuring that the items reach the user efficiently and securely.

[0059] The action may comprise initiating a cleaning service for the apparel items. The system might interface with laundry services, transmitting the necessary details for pick-up and cleaning. This integration allows users to maintain their clothing without leaving the virtual environment, enhancing convenience and streamlining garment care.

[0060] The action may comprise moving apparel items between storage facilities. In this case, the action signal would coordinate the transfer of items from one location to another, optimizing storage solutions for the user. This feature is particularly beneficial for users managing large wardrobes or seasonal clothing rotations.

[0061] The action signal may facilitate the sale of part of or ail of the subset of the apparel items by the user. The system may connect with online marketplaces or consignment services, providing the necessary information to list the items for sale. As representations of the apparel items have been created, these representations may be used as listing images on the one or more online marketplaces. This allows the user to manage their wardrobe dynamically, allowing for both acquisition and divestment of clothing items through the virtual fitting room platform.

[0062] Whilst the methods 100 and 120 describe the obtaining of a single selection signal identifying a subset of the apparel items in step S108 and the generation of a single modified virtual avatar in step SI 10, it should be understood that the process may be iterative and dynamic. For example, one or more selection signals may be obtained over time and the apparel items provided on the virtual avatar may be changed.

[0063] Initially, the user provides a first selection signal that identifies a subset of apparel items from the plurality of apparel items, which is then used to generate a modified virtual avatar (as described in steps S108 and S110). This avatar reflects the chosen items, allowing the user to visualize how they would appear when worn together. Users may then have the

[0064] HK1 806948965 1flexibility to refine their choices continually. For exampie, the method may comprise obtaining a second or further selection input, modifying the initial subset of apparel items.

[0065] The modified subset of apparel items may comprise one or more of the apparel items identified by the first selection signal and one or more modified or changed apparel items. The modified subset of apparel items may then be represented on the virtual avatar. This may comprise generating a modified virtual avatar by layering representations of the modified subset of the plurality of apparel items over the virtual avatar. This may be considered to be the iteration or repeat of steps S108 and SI 10.

[0066] This iterative process allows users to experiment with different combinations of clothing., adjusting their selections based on personal preference or feedback. Each new selection input allows the system to update the modified virtual avatar, reflecting the latest choices and providing a refreshed visual representation.

[0067] Additionally, the method may support the integration of e-commerce items into the virtual fitting experience in addition to the plurality of apparel items already owned by the user. Users are not limited to the apparel items they already own - they may access a broader range of clothing options available through e-commerce platforms. This is achieved by obtaining a third data set identifying one or more e-commerce apparel items. Representations of the one or more e-commerce apparel items are generated and can be layered over the virtual avatar just like the user’s existing plurality of apparel items.

[0068] The virtual fitting room experience may be expanded by allowing the modified virtual avatar to be shared with third parties, such as friends, personal assistants, or stylists. This enables the users to seek opinions and advice on their apparel choices.

[0069] The sharing process may be facilitated through a user-friendly interface, allowing users to send their modified virtual avatar via links or integrated social media platforms. Friends or stylists can view the modified virtual avatar, examining the chosen subset of apparel items as they appear on the user’s virtual avatar. The modified virtual avatar may be presented to the third parties using the user interface.

[0070] Once third parties have access to the avatar, they may provide feedback directly within the platform. They might suggest alternative combinations, recommend additional items, or highlight aspects of the current selection of apparel items that may not align with the user's style or occasion needs. This may be provided by obtaining a feedback signal from the one or more third parties comprising a modified subset of apparel items. A modified virtual avatar may then be generated and provided to the user for display.

[0071] In addition or as an alternative to third party recommended combinations, the user may receive a modified virtual avatar comprising apparel items or outfit ideas generated by the software system which is displayed on the user interface. For example, an algorithm may consider prior outfit selections or subsets created by the user or other selected filters to generate a subset of the apparel items. The generation of a subset by an algorithm may be in response to a request from the user. The user interface may comprise a number of filters or options through which the user may request outfit ideas from an algorithm or software system depending on the occasion the user is dressing for (e.g. a wedding,

[0072] 8

[0073] HK1 806948965 1funeral, party), the climate, or the budget (where e-commerce apparel items are included), amongst other filters. The subset generated by the algorithm may comprise apparel items owned by the user and additionally or alternatively apparel items from third-party e-commerce platforms. The user interface may have filters or options allowing the user to select whether apparel items owned by the user and / or e-commerce items are included in the subset for display on the modified virtual avatar.

[0074] Where the user or algorithm includes an e-commerce item as part of the subset of apparel items represented on the modified virtual avatar, the user may be provided with an option on the user interface to purchase the item or items. These purchased e-commerce items may then be transferred or delivered from the e-commerce provider to the storage location or directly to the user, depending on the user's request and other logistics considerations.

[0075] Figure 2 illustrates a 2D representation of a virtual avatar 200, designed to visually embody the user's physical attributes as derived from the first dataset. As noted, the first dataset comprises a template avatar. The template avatar may be modified based on detailed body measurements of the user. This ensures that the avatar 200 accurately reflects the users real-world dimensions.

[0076] The avatar 200 in Figure 2 is depicted in a frontal view, showcasing a simplistic outline of the human form. The 2D nature of the avatar 200 allows for a straightforward visualization of clothing and apparel items. However, It should be understood that the avatar 200 may be 2D or 3D and include detail as to the user's attributes, such as height, shoulder width, waist, limb lengths, skin colour, eye colour etc.

[0077] By creating a virtual avatar 200 based on one or more measurements and images of a user, the avatar 200 provides a reliable basis for users to assess how different garments will fit and appear on the user's body. By providing one or more measurements of their body, the user ensures that there is an accurate correspondence between the avatar 200 and the user, resulting in the apparel items being layered and visualized on the avatar 200 in an accurate manner. However, where no dimensions of the user are provided, the use of a template avatar ensures that the user may still view representations of the apparel items on a life-like form. This reduces the data required from the user.

[0078] Figures 3a, 3b, and 3c illustrate variations of a modified virtual avatar 300, showcasing how different apparel items can be layered. These figures demonstrate the dynamic nature of the virtual fitting room, allowing users to visualise various outfit combinations on their avata.

[0079] Figure 3a presents the avatar 300 adorned with a hat 302, shirt 304, trousers 306, and shoes 308. In Figure 3b, the subset of the plurality of apparel items is modified by incorporating a jacket 310 over the shirt 304, while maintaining the same trousers 306 and shoes 308. Figure 3c further modifies the subset of the plurality of personal items by introducing a first jacket 312 and a second jacket 314 over the shirt 304, paired with trousers 306 and shoes 308. Users can modify their apparel selections over time, either independently or based on feedback from third parties like friends or stylists. The system supports these changes, updating the avatar 300 to reflect the latest subset of apparel items, thus enhancing the user’s engagement and satisfaction with the platform. Once theuser is happy with the subset of the apparel items represented on the modified virtual avatar 300, an action may be provided with respect to that subset of apparel items.

[0080] Figure 4 illustrates a storage and distribution system 400 for the virtual fitting room service. A central warehouse or first storage location 402 serves as the primary hub for storing user's apparel items. This means that the user does not need to store the one or more apparel items in their home or apartment, which may be particularly beneficial in countries or regions where home sizes are small.

[0081] The first storage location 402 may store apparel items for one or more users. Figure 4 shows a first user 410.. a second user 412,, and a third user 414. Each of the users 410- 414 represents a user participating in the virtual fitting room service. However, it should be understood that there may be any number of users. When a user requests an action, such as delivery or cleaning, the system processes this request by coordinating the. movement of apparel items. For instance., if the first user at location 410 requests delivery of a subset of apparel items, the item is dispatched from the first storage location 402 directly to the user’s address.

[0082] Each of the users 410-412 may provide apparel or accessory items for storage at the storage location 402. Prior to storage, a characterisation system 430 may inspect and digitise or create representations of the apparel items if they consist of the users own apparel items sent for storage. Representations of the apparel items may be created only the first time that the apparel items are sent for storage at the storage location 402. If the user is returning previously stored items, the items may pass through the characterisation system without further inspection, or may be inspected for damage, ciirt or debris. The characterisation system 430 may send items requiring cleaning to the cleaning location 426 prior to storage if required. The characterisation system 430 may form part of the storage location 402.

[0083] In addition to direct user interactions, the storage and distribution system 400 may interface with an e-commerce storage location 422. This location houses e-commerce apparel items available for purchase through online platforms. When a user includes an e- commerce item as part of the subset of apparel items represented on the modified virtual avatar, the item may then be purchased and transferred or delivered from the e-commerce storage 422 to the first storage location 402 or directly to the user, depending on the user's request and other logistics considerations.

[0084] The storage and distribution system 400 may also include a second storage location 424, which can be used for overflow inventory or specialized items. This location 424 may act as an auxiliary facility, supporting the central warehouse by a portion of the items of apparel or specific categories of apparel. Users may request items to be moved here for seasonal storage, ensuring their wardrobe is continually optimized and organized according to their needs.

[0085] The storage and distribution system 400 may comprise a cleaning location 426. Apparel items may be delivered to the cleaning location 426 here following a user's request for cleaning or other maintenance. After cleaning, items may be returned to the first storage location 402 or sent directly to the user based on their preference. Following use of the 10

[0086] HK1 806948965 1one or more apparel items, the items may be automatically sent to the cleaning iocation before being placed in storage.

[0087] Whilst figure 4 shows each of the e-commerce storage location 422,. second storage location 424 and cleaning location 426 as being separate from the first storage location 402, it. should be understood that one or more of these may form part of or be located at the same site as the first storage location 402.

[0088] Figure 5 shows an example computing system for carrying out the methods of the present disclosure. Specifically. Figure 5 shows a block diagram of an embodiment of a computing system according to example embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0089] Computing system 500 (or any suitable electronic device) can be configured to perform any of the operations disclosed herein such as, for example, any of the operations discussed with reference to steps discussed with reference to Figure la or Figure lb. The computing system 500 may be located at the first storage location 402 or remote to the first storage location 402. The computing system includes one or more computing device(s) 502. The one or more computing device(s) 502 of computing system 500 comprise one or more processors 504 and memory 506. One or more processors 504 can be any general-purpose processor(s) configured to execute a set of instructions. For example, one or more processors 504 can be one or more general-purpose processors, one or more field programmable gate array (FPGA), and / or one or more application specific integrated circuits (ASIC). In one embodiment, one or more processors 504 include one processor. Alternatively, one or more processors 504 include a plurality of processors that are operatively connected. One or more processors 504 are communicatively coupled to memory 506 via address bus 508, control bus 510, and data bus 512. Memory 506 can be a random access memory (RAM), a read only memory (ROM), a persistent storage device such as a hard drive, an erasable programmable read only memory (EPROM), and / or the like. The one or more computing device(s) 502 further comprise I / O interface 514 communicatively coupled to address bus 508, control bus 510, and data bus 512.

[0090] Memory 506 can store information that can be accessed by one or more processors 504. For instance, memory 506 (e.g., one or more non-transitory computer-readable storage mediums, memory devices) can include computer-readable instructions (not shown) that can be executed by one or more processors 504. The computer-readable instructions can be software written in any suitable programming language or can be implemented in hardware. Additionally, or alternatively, the computer-readable instructions can be executed in logically and / or virtually separate threads on one or more processors 504. For example, memory 506 can store instructions (not shown) that when executed by one or more processors 504 cause one or more processors 504 to perform operations such as any of the operations and functions for which computing system 500 is configured, as described herein. In addition, or alternatively, memory 506 can store data (not shown) that can be obtained, received, accessed, written, manipulated, created, and / or stored. In some implementations, the one or more computing device(S) 502 can obtain from and / or store data in one or more memory device(s) that are remote from the computing system 500.Computing system 500 further comprises storage unit 516, network interface 518, input controller 520, and output controller 522. Storage unit 516, network interface 518, input controller 520, and output controller 522 are communicatively coupled to the central control unit (i.e., the memory 506, the address bus 508, the control bus 510, and the data bus 512) via I / O interface 514.

[0091] Storage unit 516 is a computer readable medium, preferably a non-transitory computer readable medium, comprising one or more programs, the one or more programs comprising instructions which when executed by the one or more processors 504 cause computing system 500 to perform the method steps of the present disclosure. Alternatively, storage unit 516 is a transitory computer readable medium. Storage unit 516 can be a persistent storage device such as a hard drive, a cloud storage device, or any other appropriate storage device. As such, all of the representations described herein may be stored in the cloud using a cloud storage device,

[0092] Network interface 518 can be a Wi-Fi module, a network interface card, a Bluetooth module, and / or any other suitable wired or wireless communication device. In an embodiment, network interface 518 is configured to connect to a network such as a local area network (LAN), or a wide area network (WAN), the Internet, or an intranet.

[0093] Various modifications whether by way of addition, deletion, or substitution of features may be made to the above-described examples to provide further examples, any and all of which are intended to be encompassed by the appended claims.

[0094] The terms "a" or “an“ as used in the claims and / or specification of this patent application are intended to mean ’’one or more” unless explicitly stated otherwise, This includes singular and plural references, thereby encompassing multiple instances of the element- described. The term "and / or” as used herein is intended to mean either "and" or "or" or both. This term allows for flexibility in interpretation, indicating that the elements can be considered together or separately. The terms "first," "second," "third," etc., are used merely as labels to distinguish between different elements and do not imply any order or sequence unless explicitly stated. These terms are not intended to limit the scope of the invention to any specific arrangement or hierarchy.

[0095] The use of the term "comprising" in the claims is intended to be inclusive and open-ended, meaning that the listed elements are included but other elements not explicitly listed are not excluded. This term allows for additional elements to be present within the scope of the invention. The term “including" is synonymous with "comprising" and is intended to be interpreted in the same inclusive manner. It indicates that the elements mentioned are part of the invention but does not exclude other elements that may be present. The term “such as" is used to provide examples and is not intended to limit the scope of the invention to the examples provided. It indicates that the examples are illustrative and other variations are possible within the scope of the invention.

Claims

Title: System and Method for Online Virtual Fitting Room and Related ServicesClaims1. A method for providing virtual fitting room services, the method comprising:obtaining user data comprising;a first data set comprising a template avatar; anda second data set identifying a plurality of apparel items owned by the user; generating a virtual avatar of the user based on the first data set;generating representations of the plurality of apparel items based on the second data set, the representations operable to modify the appearance of the virtual avatar; obtaining a selection signal identifying a subset of the apparel items; generating a modified virtual avatar by layering representations of the subset, of the plurality of apparel items over the virtual avatar; andproviding the modified virtual avatar for display to the user.

2. The method according to claim 1, further comprising:receiving a request signal from the user;outputting an action signal following receipt of the request signal triggering execution of an action in relation to the subset of the apparel items.

3. The method according to ciaim 2, wherein the action is a delivery of the subset of the apparel items to the user from a first storage facility.

4. The method according to claim 2, wherein the action is a cleaning of the subset of the apparel items.

5. The method according to claim 2, wherein the action is a movement of the subset of the apparel items from a first storage facility to a second storage facility.

6. The method according to claim 2, wherein the action is a sale or purchase of the subset of the apparel items by the user.

7. The method according to claim 2, further comprising:obtaining a second selection input identifying a modified subset of the plurality of apparel items;generating the modified virtual avatar by layering representations of the modified subset of the plurality of apparel items over the virtual avatar.

8. The method according to any preceding ciaim, wherein the virtual avatar is a 2D representation of the user.

9. The method according to any of claims 1-7, wherein the virtual avatar is a 3D representation of the user.

10. The method according to any preceding claim,, wherein the first data set comprises one or more body measurements of the user.

11. The method according to claim 10, wherein generating the virtual avatar of the user comprises modifying one or more dimensions of the template avatar to match the one or more body measurements of the user.

12. The method according to any preceding claim, wherein the first data set comprises at least one image of the user.The method according to any of claims 12, wherein generating the virtual avatar of the user comprises fitting the at last one image of the user to the template avatar,1.

4. The method according to any preceding claim, wherein the second data set comprises at least one image of the plurality of apparel items.

15. The method according to any preceding claim,, wherein the second data set comprises at least one measurement of the plurality of apparel items.The method according to any preceding claim, wherein the plurality of apparel items comprise clothes and / or accessories.I he method according to any preceding claim, wherein layering representations of the subset of the plurality of apparel items is in accordance with one or more layeringThe method according to claim 17,. wherein the one or more layering rules are based on one or more properties of the plurality of apparel items.

19. The method according to claim 17 or claim 18, further comprising obtaining the one or more layering rules from a third party.

20. The method according to any preceding ciaim, further comprising:obtaining a third data set identifying a plurality of e-commerce apparel items from one or more e-commerce platforms; andgenerating representations of the plurality of e-commerce items based on the third data set, the representations operable to modify the appearance of the virtual avatar.An electronic device configured to perform the method according to any of claims 1-20.

22. A computer program that, when executed, causes one or more processors to perform the method of any of claims 1-20.

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