The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is to enable footwear retailers to allow consumers to virtually try-on products on their eCommerce websites. Research suggests product fit and look are important parameters for over 66% of eCommerce shoppers. This research and development effort provides a convenicence for consumers that is readily implemented by existing eCommerce site. The technology allow customers to measure their foot size using a smartphone camera without a need for an app. The project develops and commercializes a novel Augmented Reality (AR) eCommerce platform, enabling retailers to offer customers unique and immersive online product-try-on shopping experiences instantly, reduces inventory instory, provides seamless conversion of existing e-Commerce websites to AR-enabled commerce platforms contributing to satisfied customers, higher sales, reduced returns, and decreased cost per sale. This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will employ artificial intelligence, machine learning, augmented realiity (AR), and 3D modelling solutions to create eCommerce platforms that convert physical products into 3D models that work on all smart devices seamlessly. The successful product will provide high levels of performance and precision in the superimposition of images. Solution must ensure that the AR model ensures split second inference overlays and tracking streams with lightweight 3D visualizations and > 95% accuracy to fit into the real world. If successful, the proposed AR Commerce platform may be applicable to a variety of applications including retail and medical industries. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
