AR Appearance Alteration via Smart Glasses

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for altering appearance are limited by their physical nature, being either costly or permanent, and do not allow for real-time customization or dynamic changes based on social relationships.

Innovation Solution

The use of augmented reality technology integrated with smart glasses that allows users to specify and save different appearances for various social contacts, using a software application to identify individuals and render altered appearances based on predefined profiles and relationships.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If physical methods (make-up, hairstyling, clothing) are used to alter appearance, then appearance can be changed, but it is costly and does not allow real-time customization

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereal-time customizationVSAvoidcost
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses digital avatars as copies of the user's physical appearance that can be dynamically generated and displayed on a screen. These virtual representations allow unlimited customization without the costs associated with physical alterations, making appearance changes accessible and adaptable in real-time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces physical appearance alteration methods (make-up, hairstyling, clothing) with a digital system that uses software to generate and display virtual appearances. This substitution eliminates the need for physical materials and processes, enabling cost-effective real-time customization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Adaptability or versatility

If physical methods are used to alter appearance, then appearance can be changed, but changes are permanent and do not allow dynamic adjustments

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedynamic changesVSAvoidpermanence
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamic appearance system where the digital avatar can be continuously adjusted and modified. Users can change their virtual appearance in real-time based on mood, occasion, or preference, without the permanence constraints of physical alterations. The system allows flexible, on-demand modifications to hair style, clothing, facial features, and more.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If traditional appearance alteration methods are used, then appearance can be changed, but they do not enable social interaction enhancement

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesocial interactionVSAvoiduser convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a multi-functional system that combines appearance alteration with social interaction features. The digital avatar system can be used for various social scenarios including dating, networking, and entertainment, providing a universal solution that enhances social engagement while maintaining ease of use through automated profile management and real-time updates.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS11429250B2Augmented reality appearance enhancement
Publication Date: 2022.08.30 HALLMARK CARDS INC
  • US11429250B2 patent drawing
  • US11429250B2 patent drawing
  • US11429250B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Systems, methods, and devices are provided for altering an appearance of acquaintances when viewed through smart glasses, which may be altered using augmented reality technology. In particular, an embodiment of the invention is directed to allowing users to specify their appearances to others when viewed by others wearing smart glasses. The others viewing the user through smart glasses include friends, family, contacts, or other acquaintances, which may be specified in one or more social networks or contacts databases. The altered appearance that is displayed may be based on the particular relationship between the user and the viewer. For example, a user may appear as a particular superhero to his friends on a social network website, as having a cartoon feature (such as an enormous head) to his children, as normal to his mother and business contacts, and as wearing a Hawaiian shirt to his closest buddies.