ARTIFICIAL NAILS

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims benefit of priority of US application 61/941 ,731 filed on February 19, 2014 entitled "System and method for producing and marketing personalized custom fit nails" owned by the assignee of the present application and herein incorporated by reference in its entirety. BACKGROUND

The present invention relates to systems and methods for generating personalized articles that fit onto human body and more particularly to a computer-implemented system and method for generating personalized and customized artificial nails. Styling nails by way of coloring them or attaching artificial nails over existing nails is a common practice of women, especially of the younger lot and teenagers. The attached artificial nails, which are understandably longer, are also available in different colors, textures, designs, etc. Apart from aesthetic reasons, the users also seek to reinforce their nails to protect them from knocks, scratches or liquids. Normally, varnishes are used for providing a colored and/or shiny appearance to the fingernails but they do not enable the nails to be lengthened or made more uniform and in addition they are relatively brittle. Moreover, these contours or patterns must be produced by a skilled person and the lifetime of the varnish limits the benefit relative to the required investment.

Artificial fingernail tips applied to the existing fingernails are well known. Conventional artificial fingernails use plastics, blanks and synthetic nails which fit onto the surface of the existing nail. This method is advantageous because it allows the nails to be lengthened and made uniform. Other commonly known techniques of affixing artificial nails to existing underlying fingernails includes a process of "nail sculpturing" wherein an adhesive is laid down over the existing nail from the cuticle to its tip and an artificial nail is subsequently applied onto this medium and becomes bonded to it once the adhesive dries. Subsequently, the artificial nail is extensively manually filed, thereby gaining the name of "nail sculpting". The practice of extensive abrasive filing to create a desired shape on an individual's fingertips is both labor intensive and time consuming. However, the artificial nail thus obtained cannot be removed at any moment. This limits the popularity of the technique because many women would like decorated and/or lengthened nails for a limited period of time only. A more advanced method for fitting artificial nail tips to the natural nail known as "nail wrapping" includes the process of cutting and gluing a fabric piece to the artificial nail tip and to the natural nail. The artificial nail does not extend to the cuticle, but rather is spaced from it resulting in a step being formed between the natural nail and the artificial nail tip. Coats of filler are applied between the cuticle and the step to aid in the connection and to blend away the step. Application of the filler exposes the user to fumes and liquids which can present health and respiratory problems. Once the connection is made, again, extensive abrasive and filing is done to create a uniform, continuous look between the natural surface and the one presented by the artificial tip. This process is also highly labor intensive and leaves undesirable debris resulting from the filing process. Additionally, the artificial fingertip nails once applied, require decorating by painting the outer surface. This painting of the nails with polish also exposes the user to fumes and liquids which can present health and respiratory problems. Certain prior inventions employing conventionally-used techniques for producing artificial nails does not allow patterns to be easily produced. As they follow the surface of the nails closely, it won't fit onto the nails of each users and it is possible to see imperfections on the surface of the nail. For example, if it is desired to fit an artificial nail having an animal pattern, the pattern will possibly be too small or too large widthwise depending on the size of the nail to which it is to be fitted. The problem is even worse for lengthwise patterns because, depending on the length of the nail, all or part of the pattern may be removed or made to appear excessively large. Certain methods have been described for producing artificial nails or patches personalized to the size of the nails. These methods comprise taking measurements and producing items

corresponding precisely to the size of the nail. However, these methods do not provide precise nail shapes, limits each user in selecting desired artificial nail's shape, size, color, pattern etc. In addition, there is no easy way to automatically create a three- dimensional model of an artificial fingernail object using existing methods.

Thus there exists a need for pre-made artificial fingernail tips that is custom

manufactured to fit with fingernail tip of each user. Moreover, the needed method and system would allow the user to modify the size, shape, material, desired color and pattern of the artificial fingernail tips from anywhere using at least one portable means. Further, the need system would be employed to produce custom finger nails for each individual fingers of the user. Moreover, the needed system and method would allow the user to receive desired artificial fingernail tips that could be readily being attached to the respective fingernails of the user. In addition, the needed method would be employed to save time in designing desired artificial fingernails and guarantee consistent looking fingernail objects, all accomplished with relative ease. Moreover, the system would allow the users to sell or buy the designs through a system of market place. Further objects and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following specification and the appended claims.

SUMMARY

The present invention comprises a computer-implemented system for generating personalized and customized artificial nails based on the natural nails of a user. Each of the generated artificial nails are for appropriate attachment over the corresponding natural nail of the user such that, the inner surface contour of the artificial nail matches with the outer surface contour of the corresponding natural nail and a bottom edge of the artificial nail aligns with the cuticle of the natural nail. Each of the generated artificial nails comprises a base portion, which, as the artificial nail is appropriately attached over the corresponding natural nail, comprises a section thereof that is disposed over outer surface of the corresponding natural that extends between the cuticle and the upper free extremity of the nail bed.

The system comprises an approval module for receiving at least one nail visual media file wherein, a nail visual media file comprises visual information pertaining to a natural nail of the user based on which an artificial nail is to be generated. Each of the at least one nail visual media file further features a reference object, which comprises any object whose size is well established in the art. Notably, the reference object is for determining the actual scale of the artificial nail that is to be generated. The approval module is configured to approve a nail visual media file upon determining that each of the at least one nail visual media file is in keeping with one or more parameters preset for a nail visual media file.

The system further comprises a personalization module for, upon approval, generating a personalized three-dimensional (3D) virtual nail based on the visual information pertaining to the natural nail. The personalized virtual nail scaled to an appropriate size based on the reference object whereby, the personalized virtual nail is geometrically and dimensionally identical to the base portion of the artificial nail. The system further comprises a customization module for generating a customized 3D virtual nail, which is divided into a personalized portion and an extension portion that integrally extends from the personalized portion. The personalized portion is

geometrically and dimensionally identical to the personalized virtual nail, while the extension portion is defined by the user via a user interface. The system further comprises an artificial nail generation unit for generating a physical, personalized artificial nail based on the customized virtual nail. The generated artificial nail is for the appropriate attachment over the corresponding natural nail. The artificial nail is identical to the customized virtual nail in all respects. Other objects and advantages of the embodiments herein will become readily apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is an illustration of a finger depicting select anatomy thereof.

FIG. 2, according to an embodiment of the present invention, is a schematic block diagram of the computer-implemeted system for generating personalized and

customized artificial nails.

FIG. 3, according to an embodiment of the present invention, is a schematic block diagram of the customization module. FIG. 4, according to an embodiment of the present invention, is shapes of exemplary nail shapes.

FIG. 5, according to an embodiment of the present invention, is another schematic block diagram of the customization module.

FIG. 6, according to an embodiment of the present invention, is a flowchart depicting the process involved in creating an artificial nail right from the scratch.

FIG. 7, according to an embodiment of the present invention, is a flowchart depicting the shape-customization process.

FIG. 8, according to an embodiment of the present invention, is a flowchart depicting the color-customization process. FIG. 9, according to an embodiment of the present invention, is a flowchart depicting the texture-customization process. FIG. 10, according to an embodiment of the present invention, is a flowchart depicting the image-customization process. FIG. 11 , according to an embodiment of the present invention, is a flowchart depicting the item-customization process.

FIG. 12, according to an embodiment of the present invention, is a flowchart depicting the indent-customization process.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following detailed description, a reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof, and in which the specific embodiments that may be practiced is shown by way of illustration. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the embodiments and it is to be understood that the logical, mechanical and other changes may be made without departing from the scope of the embodiments. The following detailed description is therefore not to be taken in a limiting sense. Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a computer-implemented system for generating personalized and customized artificial nails based on one or more moving (video) or still images of the natural nails of a user wherein, the one or more images are captured by an image capture device such as, a still or video camera, a three- dimensional (3D) scanner, or the like. A generated artificial nail is adapted to be appropriately attached over the corresponding natural nail such that, the inner surface contour of the artificial nail matches with the outer surface contour of the corresponding natural nail and a bottom edge of the artificial nail aligns with the cuticle of the natural nail. Referring to FIG. 1 , for ease of understanding, an artificial nail 10, is divided into a lower base portion 12 and an upper extension portion 14 that integrally extends from the top of the base portion 12. More particularly, the base portion 12 comprises an areal portion of the artificial nail 10 that extends between the cuticle 16 and the upper extremity 18 of the nail bed 20.

Referring to FIG. 2, the system 22 is adapted to be accessed by a user via a user interface 24 over a communications network 26, such as, the Internet, Local Area Network, etc. The user interface 24 is facilitated by either a dedicated computer application (such as, a smartphone app) or by a website. Either way, the user interface 24 is accessible by the user from a user terminal 28, which may comprise a

smartphone, a tablet PC, a laptop computer, a smartwatch, Google Glass™, etc. The system 22 comprises a processor divided into a plurality of processing modules viz., an approval module 30, a personalization module 32, and a customization module 34 wherein, the utility of each of which will become apparent from the following body of text. The system 22 further comprises an artificial nail generation unit 36, which comprises a 3D printer disposed in operative communication with the processor. The 3D printer may either be connected to the user terminal 28 by an electrical wire (or cable) or wirelessly as enabled by wireless technology currently known in the art, such as, infrared, WiFi, Bluetooth, etc. Suitable 3D printing technologies include: FDM, Polyjet, SLA, and SLS to name a few. 3D printing materials may include both Flexible materials (such as, plastics), as well as, rigid materials (such as, metals). The 3D printing materials are preferably UV cured or sensitive materials so that, they become softer when exposed to UV light, at which point, they (i.e., the 3D-printed artificial nails) are can be easily glued onto the natural nails of the user.

Referring to FIG. 2, the approval module 30 is adapted to receive, via a user interface 24, one or more nail visual media files for approving the same for further subsequent processing by the rest of the processing modules. A nail visual media file comprises visual information pertaining to one or more natural finger or toe nails for which, matching artificial nails are to be generated. More particularly, a nail visual media file may comprise either an image or a video file of the one or more natural nails. Further, within the nail visual media file, along with the one or more natural nails, a reference object is to be featured alongside wherein, the dimensions of the reference object determine the scale of the finally generated artificial nails. The reference object could be any flat item, the size of which is established in the art. Examples of a reference object could be a currency coin, a credit/debit card, a QR code or a bar code printed onto a paper, etc. Notably, on the other hand, not all image capture devices require scanning a reference object along with the one or more natural nails in order to determine the scale of the one or more natural nails. An example of such technology is lntel®'s RealSense™ technology. The one or more nail visual media files are received by the approval module 30 as they are uploaded thereinto from a memory disposed within the user terminal 28. In one instance, the one or more nail visual media files could even be generated on a user terminal 28 itself provided, the user terminal 28 is pre-equipped with an image capture device such as, a smartphone, tablet PC, which usually come camera-equipped. In one embodiment, in the case where the user terminal 28 is pre-equipped with an image capture device, the processor is configured to automatically upload the nail visual media files into the approval module 30 as they are generated by the onboard integrated image capture device.

Referring to FIG. 2, once the one or more nail visual media files are received, the approval module 30 parses the each of the one or more nail visual media files to determine if each of the one or more nail visual media files is in keeping with one or more preset parameters. One of the one or more parameters could be the presence of a reference object alongside one or more natural nail. Another parameter could be to angle of the camera with which, the one or more nails and the reference object is shot. Yet another parameter could be the one or more nails and the reference object entirely being within in the frame. Yet still other parameters could be the light condition, image quality, etc. The approval module 30 approves each of the one or more nail visual media files upon the nail visual media file satisfying all the preset parameters whereby, the approved nail visual media file is received by the personalization module 32 for further processing. On the other hand, in case of one or more parameters not being satisfied by a nail visual media file, the user is prompted to re-input the nail visual media file, which is in keeping with the preset parameters. In one embodiment, the approval module 30 is configured to display the parameters that are not met by the nail visual media file along with the re-input prompt. Notably, the approval module 30 performs approval at the client end, i.e., on the user terminal 28 thereby saving the one or more visual media files from being uploaded upon determining that the one or more visual media files are not in keeping with the one or more preset parameters. Referring to FIG. 2, the nail visual media file, upon being approved by the approval module 30, is received by the personalization module 32 for further processing. The personalization module 32 is configured to firstly extract the visible portion of the natural nail (hereinafter simply referred to as "natural nail") from the nail visual media file and secondly, based on the extracted natural nail, generate a personalized 3D virtual nail using 3D surface mapping technology, or the like. Notably, the extraction of the natural nail is based on the color difference between of the lower base portion 12 and the upper extension portion 14 and also according to the location of the lower base portion 12 in relation to the finger itself. The personalized virtual nail is identical to the natural nail in terms of shape, dimensions, and in some cases, even in terms of color. Notably, the scale or dimensions of the personalized virtual nail is determined by comparison with the reference object. In one embodiment, the system 10 is configured such that, the user is enabled to view the personalized virtual nail via the user interface. Notably, the personalized virtual nail is identical to the base portion 12 (FIG. 1 ) of the artificial nail in terms of both size and shape.

Referring to FIGs. 2 and 3, the personalized virtual nail generated by the

personalization module 32 is received by the customization module 34 to customize the same in accordance with the user's preferences. The customization module 34 comprises a shapes database 38 comprising a plurality of shapes listed therein wherein, each shape predominantly pertains to the shape of the extension portion 14 (FIG. 1 ), which as mentioned earlier, extends integrally from the top of the base portion 12 (FIG. 1 ). As can be appreciated from FIG. 4, exemplary shapes include "mountain peak", "square", "almond", and "pipe". The customization module 34 is configured such that, upon the user selecting one of the shapes from the shapes database 38 via the user interface 24, the selected shape is incorporated over the personalized virtual nail so as to form a customized 3D virtual nail. In other words, a customized virtual nail comprises a combination of the personalized virtual nail (or the base portion 12 (FIG. 1 )) and the extension portion 14 (FIG. 1 ) that extends therefrom. In one embodiment, the user, via the user interface 24, is enabled to preview the customized virtual nails simultaneously as he/she selects the shapes from the shapes database 38. Once the final shape is submitted by the user, the user may either proceed to "print" the final customized virtual nail from the 3D printer 36 so as to obtain the artificial nail for the corresponding natural nail or may proceed to further customize the so-far-customized customized virtual nail. In one embodiment, if no shape is selected the user, a default extension portion shape is associated with the personalized virtual nail to make it a customized virtual nail. In one embodiment, the printing may be carried out by the user independently or by a third party (such as, at a nail salon, where the printed artificial nails are attached over the corresponding natural nails) by downloading the artificial nail virtual file to print.

Referring to FIGs. 2 and 3, the customization module 34 further comprises a colors database 40 comprising a plurality of colors listed therein. The customization module 34 is configured such that, upon the user selecting one of the colors from the colors database 40 via the user interface 24, the selected color is applied over the outer surface of the customized virtual nail. In one embodiment, the user, via the user interface 24, is enabled to preview the customized virtual nails simultaneously as he/she selects the colors from the colors database 40. In one embodiment, the user is enabled to divide the top surface of the about-to-be-customized virtual nail into two or more portions and color each of them with a different color of his/her choice. In one embodiment, in order to make the color selection process more intuitive, the user is enabled to drag-and-drop a selected color onto the virtual nail. Once the final color (or colors) is submitted by the user, the user may either proceed to "print" the final customized virtual nail from the 3D printer 36 so as to obtain the artificial nail for the corresponding natural nail or may proceed to further customize the so-far-customized customized virtual nail. In one embodiment, the printing may be carried out by the user or by a third party (such as, at a nail salon, where the printed artificial nails are attached over the corresponding natural nails) by downloading the artificial nail virtual file to print. In the event of the user going ahead and printing the customized virtual nail, the outer surface of the generated artificial nail has the same color thereon as that of the customized virtual nail. In one embodiment, if no color is selected the user, a default color (preferably white or "clear") is applied over the artificial nail. Referring to FIGs. 2 and 3, the customization module 34 further comprises a textures database 42 comprising a plurality of textures listed therein. The customization module 34 is configured such that, upon the user selecting one of the textures from the textures database 42 via the user interface 24, the selected texture is incorporated over the outer surface of the customized virtual nail. In one embodiment, the user, via the user interface 24, is enabled to preview the customized virtual nails simultaneously as he/she selects the textures from the textures database 42. Once the final texture is submitted by the user, the user may either proceed to "print" the final customized virtual nail from the 3D printer 36 so as to obtain the artificial nail for the corresponding natural nail or may proceed to further customize the so-far-customized customized virtual nail. In one embodiment, the printing may be carried out by the user or by a third party (such as, at a nail salon, where the printed artificial nails are attached over the corresponding natural nails) by downloading the artificial nail virtual file to print. In the event of the user going ahead and printing the customized virtual nail, the outer surface of the generated artificial nail has the same texture thereon as that of the customized virtual nail.

Referring to FIGs. 2 and 3, the customization module 34 further comprises an aesthetic 2D images database 44 comprising a plurality of aesthetic 2D images listed therein. The customization module 34 is configured such that, upon the user selecting one or more aesthetic images from the aesthetic images database 44 via the user interface 24, the selected one or more aesthetic images are incorporated over the outer surface of the customized virtual nail. Alternatively, the user is enabled to upload an aesthetic image from a source different from the aesthetic 2D images database 44 via the user terminal 28. Once the aesthetic image is uploaded, the customization module 34 parses the aesthetic image to determine if the same is in keeping with one or more preset parameters. One of the one or more parameters could be the presence of a reference object alongside the aesthetic image. Another parameter could be to angle of the camera with which, the aesthetic image and the reference object is shot. Yet another parameter could be the aesthetic image and the reference object entirely being within in the frame. Yet still other parameters could be the light condition, image quality, etc. On the other hand, if the aesthetic image is captured by an image capture device, then notably, not all image capture devices require scanning a reference object along with the one or more natural nails in order to determine the scale of the one or more natural nails. An example of such technology is lntel®'s RealSense™ technology. The customization module 34 approves the aesthetic image upon the same satisfying the one or more preset parameters whereby, the approved aesthetic image is processed. On the other hand, in case of one or more parameters not being satisfied by the aesthetic image, the user is prompted to re-input the same, which is in keeping with the one or more preset parameters. In one embodiment, the customization module 34 is configured to display the parameters that are not met by the aesthetic image along with the re-input prompt. Notably, the customization module 34 performs parsing at the client end, i.e., on the user terminal 28 thereby saving the aesthetic image from being uploaded upon determining that the aesthetic image is not in keeping with the one or more preset parameters. Referring to FIGs. 2 and 3, in one embodiment, the user, via the user interface 24, is enabled to preview the customized virtual nails simultaneously as he/she selects the one or more aesthetic images from the aesthetic images database 42. In one embodiment, the user, via the user interface 24, is enabled to select the placement of the one or more aesthetic images on the outer surface of the customized virtual mail. Once the final one or more aesthetic images is submitted by the user, the user may either proceed to "print" the final customized virtual nail from the 3D printer 36 so as to obtain the artificial nail for the corresponding natural nail or may proceed to further customize the so-far-customized customized virtual nail. In one embodiment, the printing may be carried out by the user or by a third party (such as, at a nail salon, where the printed artificial nails are attached over the corresponding natural nails) by downloading the artificial nail virtual file to print. In the event of the user going ahead and printing the customized virtual nail, the outer surface of the generated artificial nail has the selected one or more aesthetic images thereon as that of the customized virtual nail. Referring to FIGs. 2 and 3, the customization module 34 further comprises an aesthetic 3D items database 46 comprising a plurality of aesthetic 3D items listed therein.

Alternatively, the user is enabled to upload an aesthetic 3D item from a source different from the aesthetic 3D items database 46 via the user terminal 28. Once the aesthetic item is uploaded, the customization module 34 parses the same to determine if the same is in keeping with one or more preset parameters. One of the one or more parameters could be the presence of a reference object alongside the aesthetic item. Another parameter could be to angle of the camera with which, the aesthetic item and the reference object is shot (if the aesthetic item is shot with a 3D image capture device). Yet another parameter could be the aesthetic item and the reference object entirely being within in the frame. Yet still other parameters could be the light condition, image quality, etc. On the other hand, if the aesthetic item is captured by a 3D image capture device, then notably, not all 3D image capture devices require scanning a reference object along with the one or more natural nails in order to determine the scale of the one or more natural nails. An example of such technology is lntel®'s

RealSense™ technology. The customization module 34 approves the aesthetic item upon the same satisfying the one or more preset parameters whereby, the approved aesthetic item is processed. On the other hand, in case of one or more parameters not being satisfied by the aesthetic item, the user is prompted to re-input the same, which is in keeping with the one or more preset parameters. In one embodiment, the

customization module 34 is configured to display the parameters that are not met by the aesthetic item along with the re-input prompt. Notably, the customization module 34 performs parsing at the client end, i.e., on the user terminal 28 thereby saving the aesthetic image from being uploaded upon determining that the aesthetic image is not in keeping with the one or more preset parameters. Referring to FIGs. 2 and 3, the customization module 34 is configured such that, upon the user selecting one or more aesthetic items from the aesthetic items database 46 via the user interface 24, the selected one or more aesthetic items are embedded into the outer surface of the customized virtual nail. In one embodiment, the user, via the user interface 24, is enabled to preview the customized virtual nails simultaneously as he/she selects the one or more aesthetic items from the aesthetic items database 46. In one embodiment, the user, via the user interface 24, is enabled to select the placement of the one or more aesthetic items on the outer surface of the customized virtual mail. Once the final one or more aesthetic items is submitted by the user, the user may either proceed to "print" the final customized virtual nail from the 3D printer 36 so as to obtain the artificial nail for the corresponding natural nail or may proceed to further customize the so-far-customized customized virtual nail. In one embodiment, the printing may be carried out by the user or by a third party (such as, at a nail salon, where the printed artificial nails are attached over the corresponding natural nails) by downloading the artificial nail virtual file to print. In the event of the user going ahead and printing the customized virtual nail, the outer surface of the generated artificial nail has the selected one or more aesthetic items embedded thereinto as that of the customized virtual nail.

Referring to FIGs. 2 and 5, the customization module 34 further comprises an indent module 48 for incorporating an indent into the outer surface of the customized virtual nail so that, indent within the artificial nail generated based on the indented customized virtual nail may be fitted with a corresponding add-on element. The indent module 48, which combines the functions of both the approval module 30 and the personalization module 32, receives, via a user interface 24, one or more indent visual media files for approving the same for further subsequent processing. An indent visual media file comprises visual information pertaining to one or more 3D add-on elements, which are to be embedded into the outer surface of the customized virtual nail. More particularly, an indent visual media file may comprise either an image or a video file of the one or more add-on elements. Further, within the indent visual media file, along with the one or more add-on elements, a reference object is to be featured alongside wherein, the dimensions of the reference object determine the scale of the finally generated artificial nails. Notably, on the other hand, not all image capture devices require scanning a reference object along with the one or more add-on elements in order to determine the scale of the one or more add-on elements. An example of such technology is lntel®'s RealSense™ technology. As mentioned earlier, the reference object could be any flat item, the size of which is established in the art. Examples of a reference object could be a currency coin, a credit/debit card, a QR code or a bar code printed onto a paper, etc. The one or more indent visual media files are received by the indent module 48 and they are uploaded thereinto from a memory disposed within the user terminal. In one case, the one or more indent visual media files could even be generated on a user terminal 28 itself provided, the user terminal 28 is pre-equipped with an image capture device such as, a smartphone, tablet PC, which generally come camera-equipped. In one embodiment, in the case where the user terminal 28 is pre-equipped with an image capture device, the processor is configured to automatically upload the indent visual media files into the indent module 48 as they are generated by the onboard integrated image capture device.

Referring to FIGs. 2 and 5, once the one or more indent visual media files are received, the indent module 48 parses the each of the one or more indent visual media files to determine if each of the one or more indent visual media files is in keeping with one or more preset parameters. One of the one or more parameters could be the presence of a reference object alongside one or more add-on elements. Another parameter could be to angle of the camera with which, the one or more add-on elements and the reference object is shot. Yet another parameter could be the one or more add-on elements and the reference object entirely being within in the frame. Yet still other parameters could be the light condition, image quality, etc. The indent module 48 approves each of the one or more indent visual media files upon the indent visual media file satisfying all the preset parameters whereby, the approved indent visual media file is further processed. On the other hand, in case of one or more parameters not being satisfied by an indent visual media file, the user is prompted to re-input the indent visual media file, which is in keeping with the preset parameters. In one embodiment, the indent module 48 is configured to display the parameters that are not met by the indent visual media file along with the re-input prompt. Notably, the indent module 48 performs parsing at the client end, i.e., on the user terminal 28 thereby saving the indent visual media file from being uploaded upon determining that the indent visual media file is not in keeping with the one or more preset parameters.

Referring to FIGs. 2 and 5, the indent visual media file, upon being approved, a 3D indent, which is generated using 3D surface mapping technology, or the like, is incorporated into the outer surface of the customized virtual nail such that, the contour of the indent matches with the outer contour of the add-on element so as to achieve a fit. Notably, the scale or dimensions of the add-on element and thereby, the indent is determined based on comparison with the reference object. In one embodiment, the user, via the user interface 24, is enabled to select the placement of the one or more indents on the outer surface of the customized virtual mail. In one embodiment, the system 22 is configured such that, the user is enabled to preview the customized virtual nail as the placement of the one or more indents is determined by him/her. Once the final one or more indents and the placements thereof are submitted by the user, the user may either proceed to "print" the final customized virtual nail from the 3D printer 36 so as to obtain the artificial nail for the corresponding natural nail or may proceed to further customize the so-far-customized customized virtual nail. In one embodiment, the printing may be carried out by the user or by a third party (such as, at a nail salon, where the printed artificial nails are attached over the corresponding natural nails) by downloading the artificial nail virtual file to print. In the event of the user going ahead and printing the customized virtual nail, the outer surface of the generated artificial nail is incorporated with the one or more indents as the customized virtual nail. In one embodiment, the finally generated artificial nail may be subjected to post-processing techniques, such as, polishing, coating, etc.

Referring to FIG. 6, the method of the present invention initiates with an approval module receiving (step 100), via a user interface, one or more nail visual media files for testing and subsequently approving of the same for further processing. A nail visual media file comprises visual information pertaining to one or more natural finger or toe nails for which, matching artificial nails are to be generated. More particularly, a nail visual media file may comprise either an image file, a video file, or a 3D scan of the one or more natural nails. Further, within the nail visual media file, along with the one or more natural nails, a reference object is to be featured alongside wherein, the dimensions of the reference object determine the scale of the finally generated artificial nails. The reference object could be any flat item, the size of which is established in the art. Examples of a reference object could be a currency coin, a credit/debit card, a QR code or a bar code printed onto a paper, etc. Notably, on the other hand, not all image capture devices require scanning a reference object along with the one or more add-on elements in order to determine the scale of the one or more add-on elements. An example of such technology is lntel®'s RealSense™ technology. The one or more nail visual media files are received by the approval module as they are uploaded thereinto from a memory disposed within the user terminal. In one case, the one or more nail visual media files could even be generated on a user terminal itself provided, the user terminal is pre-equipped with an image capture device such as, a smartphone, tablet PC, which usually come camera-equipped and in some cases, come equipped with a 3D scanner. In one embodiment, in the case where the user terminal is pre-equipped with an image capture device, the processor is configured to automatically upload the nail visual media files into the approval module as they are generated by the onboard integrated image capture device.

Referring to FIG. 6, once the one or more nail visual media files are received, the approval module is configured to parse the each of the one or more nail visual media files to determine if each of the one or more nail visual media files is in keeping with one or more preset parameters (step 102). One of the one or more parameters could be the presence of a reference object alongside one or more natural nail. Another parameter could be to angle of the camera with which, the one or more nails and the reference object is shot. Yet another parameter could be the one or more nails and the reference object entirely being within in the frame. Yet still other parameters could be the light condition, image quality, etc. The approval module approves each of the one or more nail visual media files upon the nail visual media file satisfying all the preset parameters whereby, the approved nail visual media file is received by the personalization module for further processing (step 106). On the other hand, in case of one or more parameters not being satisfied by a nail visual media file, the user is prompted to re-input (step 104) the nail visual media file, which is in keeping with the preset parameters. In one embodiment, the approval module is configured to display the parameters that are not met by the nail visual media file along with the re-input prompt. Notably, the approval module performs parsing at the client end, i.e., on the user terminal thereby saving the nail visual media file from being uploaded upon determining that the nail visual media file is not in keeping with the one or more preset parameters.

Referring to FIG. 6, the nail visual media file, upon being approved by the approval module, is received by the personalization module for further processing (step 106). The personalization module is configured to firstly extract the visible portion of the natural nail (hereinafter simply referred to as "natural nail") from the nail visual media file and secondly, based on the extracted natural nail, generate a personalized 3D virtual nail (step 106) using 3D surface mapping technology, or the like. The personalized virtual nail is identical to the natural nail in terms of shape, dimensions, and in some cases, even in terms of color. Notably, the scale or dimensions of the personalized virtual nail is determined by comparison with the reference object. In one embodiment, the system is configured such that, the user is enabled to view the personalized virtual nail via the user interface. Notably, the personalized virtual nail is identical to the base portion of the artificial nail in terms of both size and shape. The personalized virtual nail generated by the personalization module (step 106) is received by the customization module to customize the same in accordance with user preferences so as to create a customized 3D virtual nail (step 108). At this point, the final customized virtual nail may be submitted by the user to "print" the final customized virtual nail from the 3D printer so as to obtain the artificial nail (step 110) for the corresponding natural nail or may proceed to further customize the so-far-customized customized virtual nail. In one embodiment, the printing may be carried out by the user or by a third party (such as, at a nail salon, where the printed artificial nails are attached over the corresponding natural nails) by downloading the artificial nail virtual file to print. Referring to FIG. 7, one of the customization processes, i.e., a shape customization process, involves receiving (step 112), via the user interface, a shape from a plurality of shapes listed within a shapes database. Notably, each shape predominantly pertains to the shape of the extension portion, which as mentioned earlier, extends integrally from the top of the base portion. Upon receiving (step 112) the user's selection of a shape from the shapes database, the selected shape is incorporated over the personalized virtual nail (step 114) so as to form a customized 3D virtual nail. In other words, a customized virtual nail comprises a combination of the personalized virtual nail (or the base portion) and the extension portion that extends therefrom. In one embodiment, the user, via the user interface, is enabled to preview the customized virtual nails

simultaneously as he/she selects the shapes from the shapes database. Once the final shape is submitted by the user, the user may either (step 116) proceed to "print" the final customized virtual nail from the 3D printer so as to obtain the artificial nail (step 118) for the corresponding natural nail or may proceed to further customize the so-far- customized customized virtual nail. In one embodiment, if no shape is selected the user, a default extension portion shape is associated with the personalized virtual nail to make it a customized virtual nail. In one embodiment, the printing may be carried out by the user or by a third party (such as, at a nail salon, where the printed artificial nails are attached over the corresponding natural nails) by downloading the artificial nail virtual file to print.

Referring to FIG. 8, one of the customization processes, viz., a color customization process, involves receiving (step 120), via the user interface, a color from a plurality of colors listed within a colors database. Upon receiving (step 120) the user's selection of a color from the colors database, the selected color is applied over the customized virtual nail (step 122). In one embodiment, the user, via the user interface, is enabled to preview the customized virtual nails simultaneously as he/she selects the colors from the colors database. In one embodiment, in order to make the color selection process more intuitive, the user is enabled to drag-and-drop a selected color onto the virtual nail. Once the final color is submitted by the user, the user may either (step 124) proceed to "print" the final customized virtual nail from the 3D printer so as to obtain the artificial nail (step 126) for the corresponding natural nail or may proceed to further customize the so-far-customized customized virtual nail. In one embodiment, the printing may be carried out by the user or by a third party (such as, at a nail salon, where the printed artificial nails are attached over the corresponding natural nails) by downloading the artificial nail virtual file to print. In the event of the user going ahead and printing the customized virtual nail, the outer surface of the generated artificial nail has the same color thereon as that of the customized virtual nail. In one embodiment, if no color is selected the user, a default color (preferably white or "clear") is applied over the artificial nail.

Referring to FIG. 9, one of the customization processes, viz., a texture customization process, involves receiving (step 128), via the user interface, a texture from a plurality of textures listed within a textures database. Upon receiving (step 128) the user's selection of a texture from the textures database, the selected texture is incorporated over the customized virtual nail (step 130). In one embodiment, the user, via the user interface, is enabled to preview the customized virtual nails simultaneously as he/she selects the textures from the textures database. Once the final texture is submitted by the user, the user may either (step 132) proceed to "print" the final customized virtual nail from the 3D printer so as to obtain the artificial nail (step 134) for the corresponding natural nail or may proceed to further customize the so-far-customized customized virtual nail. In one embodiment, the printing may be carried out by the user or by a third party (such as, at a nail salon, where the printed artificial nails are attached over the corresponding natural nails) by downloading the artificial nail virtual file to print. In the event of the user going ahead and printing the customized virtual nail, the outer surface of the generated artificial nail has the same texture thereon as that of the customized virtual nail.

Referring to FIG. 10, one of the customization processes, viz., an image customization process, involves receiving (step 136), via the user interface, one or more aesthetic 2D images from a plurality of aesthetic 2D images listed within an aesthetic 2D images database. Upon receiving (step 136) the user's selection of the one or more aesthetic images from the one or more aesthetic images database, the selected one or more aesthetic images are imprinted over the customized virtual nail (step 138). In one embodiment, the user, via the user interface, is enabled to preview the customized virtual nails simultaneously as he/she selects the one or more aesthetic images from the one or more aesthetic images database. In one embodiment, the user, via the user interface, is enabled to select the placement of the one or more aesthetic images on the outer surface of the customized virtual mail. Alternatively, the user is enabled to upload an aesthetic image from a source different from the aesthetic 2D images database via the user terminal. Once the aesthetic image is uploaded, the same is parsed to determine if the same is in keeping with one or more preset parameters. One of the one or more parameters could be the presence of a reference object alongside the aesthetic image. Another parameter could be to angle of the camera with which, the aesthetic image and the reference object is shot. Yet another parameter could be the aesthetic image and the reference object entirely being within in the frame. Yet still other parameters could be the light condition, image quality, etc. On the other hand, if the aesthetic image is captured by an image capture device, then notably, not all image capture devices require scanning a reference object along with the one or more natural nails in order to determine the scale of the one or more natural nails. An example of such technology is lntel®'s RealSense™ technology. Upon approval, the aesthetic image is processed. On the other hand, in case of one or more parameters not being satisfied by the aesthetic image, the user is prompted to re-input the same, which is in keeping with the one or more preset parameters. In one embodiment, the parameter or parameters that are not met by the aesthetic image are displayed along with the re-input prompt. Notably, the parsing is performed at the client end, i.e., on the user terminal thereby saving the aesthetic image from being uploaded upon determining that the aesthetic image is not in keeping with the one or more preset parameters.

Referring to FIG. 10, once the final one or more aesthetic images are submitted by the user, the user may either (step 140) proceed to "print" the final customized virtual nail from the 3D printer so as to obtain the artificial nail (step 142) for the corresponding natural nail or may proceed to further customize the so-far-customized customized virtual nail. In one embodiment, the printing may be carried out by the user or by a third party (such as, at a nail salon, where the printed artificial nails are attached over the corresponding natural nails) by downloading the artificial nail virtual file to print. In the event of the user going ahead and printing the customized virtual nail, the outer surface of the generated artificial nail has the same one or more aesthetic images imprinted thereon as that of the customized virtual nail.

Referring to FIG. 11 , one of the customization processes, viz., an item customization process, involves receiving (step 144), via the user interface, one or more aesthetic 3D items from a plurality of aesthetic 3D items listed within an aesthetic 3D items database. Upon receiving (step 144) the user's selection of the one or more aesthetic items from the one or more aesthetic items database, the selected one or more aesthetic items are embedded over the customized virtual nail (step 146). In one embodiment, the user, via the user interface, is enabled to preview the customized virtual nails simultaneously as he/she selects the one or more aesthetic items from the one or more aesthetic items database. In one embodiment, the user, via the user interface, is enabled to select the placement of the one or more aesthetic items on the outer surface of the customized virtual mail. Alternatively, the user is enabled to upload an aesthetic item from a source different from the aesthetic 3D items database via the user terminal. Once the aesthetic item is uploaded, the same is parsed to determine if the same is in keeping with one or more preset parameters. One of the one or more parameters could be the presence of a reference object alongside the aesthetic item. Another parameter could be to angle of the camera with which, the aesthetic item and the reference object is shot. Yet another parameter could be the aesthetic item and the reference object entirely being within in the frame. Yet still other parameters could be the light condition, image quality, etc. On the other hand, if the aesthetic item is captured by an image capture device, then notably, not all image capture devices require scanning a reference object along with the one or more natural nails in order to determine the scale of the one or more natural nails. An example of such technology is lntel®'s RealSense™ technology. Upon approval, the aesthetic item is processed. On the other hand, in case of one or more parameters not being satisfied by the aesthetic item, the user is prompted to re-input the same, which is in keeping with the one or more preset parameters. In one embodiment, the parameter or parameters that are not met by the aesthetic item are displayed along with the re-input prompt. Notably, the parsing is performed at the client end, i.e., on the user terminal thereby saving the aesthetic item from being uploaded upon determining that the aesthetic item is not in keeping with the one or more preset parameters.

Referring to FIG. 11 , once the final one or more aesthetic items are submitted by the user, the user may either (step 148) proceed to "print" the final customized virtual nail from the 3D printer so as to obtain the artificial nail (step 150) for the corresponding natural nail or may proceed to further customize the so-far-customized customized virtual nail. In one embodiment, the printing may be carried out by the user or by a third party (such as, at a nail salon, where the printed artificial nails are attached over the corresponding natural nails) by downloading the artificial nail virtual file to print. In the event of the user going ahead and printing the customized virtual nail, the outer surface of the generated artificial nail has the same one or more aesthetic items embedded thereinto as that of the customized virtual nail.

Referring to FIG. 12, one of the customization processes, viz., an indent customization process, involves receiving (step 152), via a user interface, one or more indent visual media files for approving the same for further subsequent processing. An indent visual media file comprises visual information pertaining to one or more 3D add-on elements, which are to be embedded into the outer surface of the customized virtual nail. More particularly, an indent visual media file may comprise either an image or a video file of the one or more add-on elements. Further, within the indent visual media file, along with the one or more add-on elements, a reference object is to be featured alongside wherein, the dimensions of the reference object determine the scale of the finally generated artificial nails. As mentioned earlier, the reference object could be any flat item, the size of which is established in the art. Examples of a reference object could be a currency coin, a credit/debit card, a QR code or a bar code printed onto a paper, etc. The one or more indent visual media files received from a memory disposed within the user terminal. In one case, the one or more indent visual media files could even be generated on a user terminal 28 itself provided, the user terminal 28 is pre-equipped with an image capture device such as, a smartphone, tablet PC, which generally come camera-equipped. In one embodiment, in the case where the user terminal is pre- equipped with an image capture device, the processor is configured to automatically upload the indent visual media files into the indent module as they are generated by the onboard integrated image capture device.

Referring to FIG. 12, the received one or more indent visual media files are parsed to determine (step 154) if each of the one or more indent visual media files is in keeping with one or more preset parameters. A parameter could be the presence of a reference object alongside one or more add-on elements. Another parameter could be to angle of the camera with which, the one or more add-on elements and the reference object is shot. Yet another parameter could be the one or more add-on elements and the reference object entirely being within in the frame. Yet still other parameters could be the light condition, image quality, etc. Each of the one or more indent visual media files are approved (step 156) upon determining that the indent visual media file satisfies all the preset parameters whereby, the approved indent visual media file is further processed. On the other hand, in case of one or more parameters not being satisfied by an indent visual media file, the user is prompted to re-input (step 158) the indent visual media file, which is in keeping with the preset parameters. In one embodiment, the parameters that are not met by the indent visual media file are displayed along with the re-input prompt. Notably, the parsing is performed at the client end, i.e., on the user terminal, thereby saving the indent visual media file from being uploaded upon determining that the indent visual media file is not in keeping with the one or more preset parameters.

Referring to FIG. 12, upon the indent visual media file being approved, a 3D indent is generated (step 160) using 3D surface mapping technology, or the like, wherein, the 3D indent is incorporated (162) into the outer surface of the customized virtual nail such that, the contour of the indent matches with the outer contour of the add-on element so as to achieve a fit. Notably, the scale or dimensions of the add-on element and thereby, the indent is determined based on comparison with the reference object. In one embodiment, the user, via the user interface, is enabled to select the placement of the one or more indents on the outer surface of the customized virtual mail. In one embodiment, the user is enabled to preview the customized virtual nail as the

placement of the one or more indents is determined by him/her. Once the final one or more indents and the placements thereof are submitted by the user, the user may either proceed to "print" the final customized virtual nail from the 3D printer so as to obtain the artificial nail for the corresponding natural nail or may proceed to further customize the so-far-customized customized virtual nail. In one embodiment, the printing may be carried out by the user or by a third party (such as, at a nail salon, where the printed artificial nails are attached over the corresponding natural nails) by downloading the artificial nail virtual file to print. In the event of the user going ahead and printing the customized virtual nail, the outer surface of the generated artificial nail is incorporated with the one or more indents as the customized virtual nail. In one embodiment, the finally generated artificial nail may be subjected to post-processing techniques, such as, polishing, coating, etc.

The aforementioned embodiments are able to be implemented, for example, using a machine-readable medium or article which is able to store an instruction or a set of instructions that, if executed by a machine, cause the machine to perform a method and/or operations described herein. Such machine is able to include, for example, any suitable processing platform, computing platform, computing device, processing device, electronic device, electronic system, computing system, processing system, computer, processor, or the like, and is able to be implemented using any suitable combination of hardware and/or software. The machine-readable medium or article is able to include, for example, any suitable type of memory unit, memory device, memory article, memory medium, storage device, storage article, storage medium and/or storage unit; for example, memory, removable or non-removable media, erasable or non-erasable media, writeable or re-writeable media, digital or analog media, hard disk drive, floppy disk, Compact Disk Read Only Memory (CD-ROM), Compact Disk Recordable (CD-R), Compact Disk Re-Writeable (CD-RW), optical disk, magnetic media, various types of Digital Versatile Disks (DVDs), a tape, a cassette, or the like. The instructions is able to include any suitable type of code, for example, source code, compiled code, interpreted code, executable code, static code, dynamic code, or the like, and is able to be implemented using any suitable high-level, low-level, object-oriented, visual, compiled and/or interpreted programming language, e.g., C, C++, Java, BASIC, Pascal, Fortran, Cobol, assembly language, machine code, or the like. Functions, operations, components and/or features described herein with reference to one or more

embodiments, is able to be combined with, or is able to be utilized in combination with, one or more other functions, operations, components and/or features described herein with reference to one or more other embodiments, or vice versa.

The foregoing description of the specific embodiments will so fully reveal the general nature of the embodiments herein that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily modify and/or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments without departing from the generic concept, and, therefore, such adaptations and modifications should and are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation. Therefore, while the embodiments herein have been described in terms of preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the embodiments herein can be practiced with modification within the spirit and scope of the appended claims.

Although the embodiments herein are described with various specific embodiments, it will be obvious for a person skilled in the art to practice the invention with modifications. However, all such modifications are deemed to be within the scope of the claims.