VIRTUAL REALITY SHOPPING

Smart overview of the Invention

The patent application describes a system for Virtual Reality (VR) shopping, allowing users to explore and purchase items in a virtual store environment. Images of items from various catalogues are used to create a dynamic VR store, which is tailored to individual customers or specific stores. Customers can navigate the VR store, examine items, and make purchases during a VR session. The system also includes specialized rooms where customers can interact with others as avatars, and receive assistance from automated avatars or chatbots.

Background

The development of this system is influenced by the shift in consumer behavior due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Increased health safety awareness has led to changes in shopping habits, with many consumers preferring to avoid physical stores. Online grocery services have seen a surge in demand, but they often fall short due to issues like inventory inaccuracies and cumbersome interfaces. Despite these challenges, physical grocery shopping remains necessary for many due to the limitations of current online systems.

Functionality

The VR shopping system provides a solution by creating a virtual shopping experience that mimics the physical store. Item identifiers are matched with images and integrated into a virtual model of a store. Customers use a VR interface to engage in a session where they can select, inspect, and add items to a cart. The system supports real-time interaction with other shoppers through shared VR rooms, where users can communicate via avatars and share items.

Interactive Features

Customers can personalize their experience by customizing their avatars and choosing levels of interaction within the VR store. The system allows for pre-populated carts based on previous purchases or shopping lists. During checkout, the VR environment simulates approaching a transaction terminal, offering personalized item suggestions for impulse buys. Payment is processed using preferred methods, and items can be designated for pickup or delivery.

System Components

The VR shopping system comprises various components including cloud servers, retailer/delivery servers, and user-operated devices. The cloud/server hosts several managers responsible for handling object images, store population, VR sessions, transactions, and chatbot interactions. These components work together to provide an immersive and customized shopping experience within the dynamically rendered VR store.