Dynamic Metadata for Virtual Object Configuration Updates
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current online marketplaces lack efficient methods to dynamically update and display virtual objects corresponding to physical objects available for purchase, especially in augmented reality environments, where users need real-time configuration availability and pricing information.
Innovation Solution
An electronic device displays virtual objects based on dynamic metadata files, which allow it to contact a source (like a server associated with the manufacturer or retailer) for real-time updates on availability and pricing, enabling users to request and receive updates on various configurations and pricing information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If virtual objects are displayed with static metadata in online marketplaces, then the system complexity is reduced, but the information accuracy and real-time availability updates deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic metadata that automatically updates when product availability changes. The system transitions from static product information to dynamically changing metadata that reflects real-time inventory status, configuration availability, and pricing changes without requiring manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The system establishes a feedback loop where the electronic device continuously monitors availability information from sources and automatically updates the virtual object metadata. When availability status changes, the system receives feedback and propagates updates to keep the displayed information current.
2Loss of information
If the system frequently contacts sources for availability updates, then the information freshness is improved, but the network traffic and processing load increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements periodic polling of product sources at scheduled intervals to retrieve updated availability and pricing information. This approach balances information freshness with reduced network traffic compared to continuous real-time monitoring, as updates occur at regular predetermined intervals rather than constantly.
3Ease of operation
If multiple configurations of virtual objects are displayed with real-time availability, then the user experience is improved, but the data processing requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the product data into distinct configuration options (e.g., different colors, materials, specifications) with individual availability status for each. This segmentation allows the system to efficiently manage and update only the specific configuration metadata that has changed, rather than processing entire product catalogs.
Data Source
AI summary
In some embodiments, an electronic device obtains and displays a file container defining a virtual object corresponding to a physical object. The file container also defines a plurality of other permitted configurations of the virtual object. At a later time, the electronic device displays the virtual object using an alternate process. In response to a user input corresponding to a request to update a configuration of the object, the electronic device contacts the source of the object to obtain the availability of the updated configuration of the object. In some embodiments, in response to an indication that the physical object with the updated configuration is available, the electronic device presents the virtual object with the updated configuration.