The information system “Virtual Fitting in Online Stores Using AR Technology”
Kukuian Anastasiia Serhiivna
Master degree student
Department of Information Systems and Networks, National University “Lviv Polytechnic,” Ukraine
Abstract: The article is dedicated to the analysis of modern services for online clothing size selection and the improvement of methods for calculating human body parameters and electronic mannequins for programs or applications specializing in clothing visualization and design. It also discusses the development of the information system “Virtual Fitting in Online Stores Using AR Technology” to facilitate the product selection process for consumers by providing the ability to see the selected item on their body in advance. This also allows sellers to avoid unpleasant and costly situations. Business and user requirements are discussed, as well as the functional and non-functional requirements for the system.
Keywords: clothing fitting, augmented reality, 3D model, information system, business requirements, user requirements, functional requirements, non-functional requirements.
The implementation of the “Virtual Fitting in Online Stores Using AR Technology” system can lead to numerous positive aspects for various industries and areas of life [1]. Firstly, it can significantly simplify the process of selecting and purchasing clothing for consumers, allowing them to view, try on, and evaluate different models without the need to visit physical stores. This approach will increase convenience and accessibility for consumers, which can lead to increased sales and satisfaction of their needs. Additionally, the virtual fitting room can help address the issue of product returns, as consumers will be able to more accurately select sizes and ensure the chosen model meets their expectations before making a purchase. For companies, this can also reduce operational costs and decrease the time required for customer service, improving the efficiency of their operations. Thus, the implementation of the “Virtual Fitting in Online Stores Using AR Technology” system has the potential to positively impact both consumers and companies operating in the clothing retail sector [2].
The proposed information system “Virtual Fitting in Online Stores Using AR Technology” is designed to improve the process of selecting and trying on clothing in online stores. It allows users to visually assess how the clothing will look on their bodies without the need for a physical fitting. This is achieved through augmented reality (AR) technologies, which overlay virtual clothing models onto the user’s image or video in real-time.
Application Areas of the System: The information system “Virtual Fitting in Online Stores Using AR Technology” finds its application in various areas related to clothing retail, fashion, and e-commerce.
The main areas of its use include:
- Online Clothing Stores: Online retailers can integrate “Virtual Fitting in Online Stores Using AR Technology” into their websites or mobile applications, allowing customers to virtually try on clothes before purchasing. This improves the user experience, helps reduce the number of returns, and increases sales conversion.
- Physical Stores: Virtual fitting rooms can be installed in physical retail locations. Customers can use special screens or augmented reality mirrors to try on clothes, significantly reducing the time needed for searching and trying on clothes in real fitting rooms.
- Pop-up Stores and Showrooms: Temporary stores and showrooms can use the “Virtual Fitting Room” to showcase their products. This is particularly useful for brands that want to reduce costs on physical inventory and quickly adapt to different locations.
- Mobile Apps for Stylists and Fashion Consultants: Stylists can use mobile apps with virtual fitting features to provide their clients with clothing recommendations regardless of their location.
- Fashion Exhibitions and Events: At fashion exhibitions and other events dedicated to the fashion industry, “Virtual Fitting in Online Stores Using AR Technology” can be used to demonstrate new collections and trends. Visitors can virtually try on new items, enhancing their experience and engagement.
- E-commerce for Accessories: In addition to clothing, the system can be adapted for trying on accessories such as glasses, hats, jewelry, and other fashion accessories, which also increases customer satisfaction and reduces the number of returns.
Rationale for the Development and Implementation of the System: The development and implementation of the information system “Virtual Fitting in Online Stores Using AR Technology” are driven by the growing needs of the modern e-commerce and retail market. With the rapid development of online sales, particularly in the clothing segment, there is a need to enhance the quality of the user experience. Consumers seek the ability to virtually try on clothes before purchasing, allowing them to make more informed decisions and reduce the risk of unsuccessful purchases. This, in turn, helps reduce the number of returns, which is a significant problem for online stores, and increases customer satisfaction.
Additionally, the implementation of the “Virtual Fitting in Online Stores Using AR Technology” system provides competitive advantages for retailers, allowing them to stand out in the market through an innovative approach to sales. This leads to increased sales conversion and an expanded customer base. From a business perspective, the system helps optimize inventory management and logistics processes as demand for products becomes more predictable. Considering all these factors, the development and implementation of the “Virtual Fitting Room” are strategically important steps for companies aiming to maintain and expand their positions in the e-commerce market.
Expected Effects of System Implementation: The implementation of the information system “Virtual Fitting in Online Stores Using AR Technology” will bring a number of positive effects for both businesses and consumers:
Increased Customer Satisfaction: By enabling virtual fitting of clothes, users can better assess how a particular item will look on them. This reduces the uncertainty during online purchases and increases customer satisfaction, which promotes loyalty to the brand.
Reduction in Returns: Providing customers with tools for pre-visualization of clothing decreases the likelihood of purchasing items that do not fit or are not liked. This, in turn, reduces the costs associated with the processing and logistics of returns.
Increased Sales Conversion: Improved user experience and the ability to virtually try on clothes encourage quicker purchase decisions, leading to increased sales conversion. Customers are more willing to buy items when they can preview how they will look.
Better Inventory Management: Reducing the number of returns and more accurate demand forecasting allow for more efficient inventory management. This helps lower storage and logistics costs and optimize production processes.
Enhanced Competitiveness: Innovative technologies, such as “Virtual Fitting in Online Stores Using AR Technology,” help companies stand out in the market and attract new customers. This creates additional competitive advantages and strengthens the brand’s position.
Expansion of Customer Base: The interactive and modern tool of virtual fitting attracts new customers, especially among the younger audience that actively uses digital technologies.
Reduced Environmental Impact: Reducing the number of returns and optimizing logistical processes contribute to lowering the company’s carbon footprint, aligning with current trends toward business environmental responsibility.
The implementation of the “Virtual Fitting in Online Stores Using AR Technology” system not only improves business processes but also enhances the level of service for customers, making it an important strategic tool for the development of modern retailers.
Development of the Conceptual Model of the System:
Description of Input Data: The input data for the information system “Virtual Fitting in Online Stores Using AR Technology” includes user parameters such as anthropometric data (height, weight, body measurements), photos or videos of the user for creating a 3D body model, and clothing data, including sizes, cuts, materials, and visual characteristics of each garment. This data is collected through special interfaces and sensors integrated into the system and used to accurately simulate virtual fitting and provide the user with the most realistic experience.
Description of Output Data: The output data of the “Virtual Fitting in Online Stores Using AR Technology” system includes visualized images or videos showing how the selected clothing will look on the user. This includes realistic 3D models of clothing superimposed on the user’s 3D body model, considering their parameters. Additionally, the output data may include size recommendations that best match the selected criteria and other related information to help the user make an informed purchase decision.
Description of System Functions and Structure: The information system “Virtual Fitting in Online Stores Using AR Technology” consists of client and server parts interacting through the user interface. The main functions of the system include collecting and processing the user’s anthropometric data, creating and visualizing 3D clothing models, overlaying these models onto the user’s 3D images in real-time, and providing size recommendations. The server part handles data processing, storage of models, and complex calculations, while the client part provides an interactive interface for the user, displaying fitting results and other interactions. The system integrates with databases containing clothing information and uses augmented reality technologies to create the most realistic fitting experience.
Description of System Requirements: To ensure the successful operation of the “Virtual Fitting in Online Stores Using AR Technology” system, several technical and operational requirements must be met. The system needs high computational power to process 3D models in real-time, requiring modern server solutions and graphics processors. Client devices must support augmented reality (AR) technologies and have high-quality cameras for accurate user parameter scanning. Additionally, fast and reliable internet access is needed for uninterrupted interaction between the client and server parts. The system should be capable of integrating with store databases for automatic updating of clothing inventory and have a user-friendly interface providing an intuitive experience. User data security is also critical, so the system must comply with modern information protection standards.
Additional Formal or Generalized Models: To ensure the effective development and implementation of the “Virtual Fitting in Online Stores Using AR Technology” information system, additional formal and generalized models, such as Use Case diagrams and Activity diagrams created using the UML methodology, can be used. Use Case diagrams will help identify key scenarios of user interaction with the system and the corresponding functional requirements. Activity diagrams will provide a clear understanding of the workflow and interactions between different system components. These models provide a comprehensive and structured representation of the system, facilitating the development, testing, and implementation processes.
Scalability and Adaptability of the System: The information system “Virtual Fitting in Online Stores Using AR Technology” is designed to meet the needs of the modern market and can scale effectively to handle increasing user volumes and computational loads. It is based on a modular architecture that allows for easy expansion of functionality and integration of new components without significant changes to the overall system structure. Additionally, the system flexibly adapts to various types of devices, including computers, smartphones, and wearable devices, allowing users to use it in any convenient way. These characteristics enable the system to be successfully implemented in both small and large companies while ensuring high service quality even with increasing usage volumes.
User Interaction: The “Virtual Fitting in Online Stores Using AR Technology” system is designed for maximum user-friendly and intuitive interaction. The user interface is developed with modern design trends and best UX/UI practices in mind to ensure convenience and efficiency. Users can easily interact with the system, performing various operations such as measuring sizes, selecting and trying on clothes, and receiving recommendations. Additionally, the system provides the ability to personalize the user experience by adjusting display settings and choosing interactive communication options, making the interaction process as pleasant and personalized as possible for each user.
System Support and Updates: To ensure reliable and efficient operation, the “Virtual Fitting in Online Stores Using AR Technology” information system has support and update mechanisms. This includes regular monitoring and analysis of system performance to identify potential issues and timely resolution of detected flaws through patches and fixes. Additionally, the system is supported by continuously updating functionality improving the user experience based on user feedback and implementing new technologies and solutions. This approach ensures high service quality and maintains the system’s competitiveness in the market.
Evaluation of Results and Implementation of Changes: After implementing the “Virtual Fitting in Online Stores Using AR Technology” system, a comprehensive evaluation of its results is conducted to determine the alignment with set goals and user needs satisfaction. This evaluation includes analyzing system performance, identifying problems and necessary improvements, and assessing user satisfaction and their impressions of use. Based on the evaluation results, decisions are made regarding implementing changes and improvements to enhance functionality, performance, and user requirements compliance. This continuous improvement cycle allows the system to adapt effectively to changing market demands and ensure the highest level of user satisfaction.
References
- Augmented Reality: Marketing’s trillion-dollar opportunity. – Available online: https://adage.com/article/deloitte-digital/augmented-reality-marketing-s-trillion-dollar-opportunity/309678 (дата звернення: 05.03.2024).
- The Impact of Augmented Reality on Retail. – Available online: http://www.retailperceptions.com/2016/10/the-impact-of-augmented-reality-on-retail/ (дата звернення: 05.03.2024).