Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a retail support device for wheelchair users that is capable of assisting individuals using wheelchairs in shopping environments by enhancing independence, improving ease of use, and providing comfortable shopping experience.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Many retail stores and shopping environments are primarily designed to accommodate the general population, often overlooking the specific needs of wheelchair users. These individuals may encounter various challenges while shopping, such as difficulty moving through narrow aisles, reaching for high or low shelves, and accessing products independently. Limited accessibility leads to force wheelchair users to rely heavily on store staff for assistance, which may not always be immediately available. This dependence leads to longer shopping times, reduced privacy, and a less satisfying shopping experience.

[0003] Traditionally, assistance for wheelchair users in retail stores has involved store staff guiding or pushing the wheelchair, or users using basic manual devices such as carts or handheld scanners. These methods depend on staff availability and is time-consuming. Manual solutions do not always provide real-time guidance or personalized support, which causes inconvenience and frustration for users. These conventional methods have several drawbacks. Relying on staff limits the independence of wheelchair users and cause delays.

[0004] KR20220043619A discloses an electronic device held by a means of transportation for a disabled person includes: an acceleration sensor; at least one communication circuit including a global positioning system (GPS); at least one memory configured to store instructions; and at least one processor. The at least one processor can be configured, when the instructions are executed, to: receive power data for the movement of the means of transportation from the means of transportation through the at least one communication circuit; acquire moving speed data of the electronic device, based on position data of the electronic device acquired through the at least one communication circuit and acceleration data of the electronic device acquired through the acceleration sensor; acquire condition data of a road surface in which the means of transportation is being moved, based on the difference between the moving speed data and the power data; process the condition data by using the position data to form the condition data linked with coordinates on an electronic map converted from geographical coordinates; and store the formed condition data. Therefore, the present invention is capable of providing a navigation service for disabled persons.

[0005] US20250104125A1 discloses apparatuses, systems, and methods to provider personalized online product fitting are disclosed. In a variety of embodiments, personalized shopping systems include an automated shopping assistant accessing product data, a matchmaking system accessing history data, preference data, and/or anatomical data measured using an automated shopping assistant apparatus, where the personalized shopping system can generate a personalized match based on the history data, preference data, and/or anatomical data. The automated shopping assistant apparatus may include depth sensors and/or image scanners which can capture a variety of 2D and/or 3D models. These models can be utilized to generate anatomical data. The anatomical data can be used to virtually try on a variety of items. Products may be personalized based on the history data, preference data, and/or anatomical data.

[0006] Conventionally, many devices and systems exist for assisting individuals with mobility challenges. However, the cited arts have certain limitations pertaining to real-time guidance, autonomous navigation, and personalized support for wheelchair users within retail environments. Existing solutions often lack in obstacle detection, boundary enforcement to provide safety to the user, or assistance with shopping to enhance independence and safety during shopping.

[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a device that requires to be capable of providing autonomous, safe, and efficient navigation for wheelchair users within retail stores and facilitating access to products, virtual try-on capabilities, and personalized shopping assistance, thus improving the shopping experience by promoting independence, convenience, and safety.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The principal object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0009] An object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of providing autonomous navigation and safe movement to a wheelchair user within retail environments.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of securing wheelchair attachment, adjusting orientation, and allowing navigation in a defined boundary during shopping.

[0011] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of retrieving the user-desired items through automated recognition, handling of products, including virtual try-on, product evaluation features and billing to ensure optimal comfort to the user during end-to-end shopping process.

[0012] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of recommending personalized recommendations and product suggestions based on user preferences and profile data.

[0013] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent upon further review of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0014] The present invention relates to a retail support device for wheelchair users for retail settings that empowers wheelchair users by providing mobility assistance, personalized interaction, and automated handling of user-desired items and its billing, thus creating a more inclusive, efficient, and user-friendly shopping experience.

[0015] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a retail support device for wheelchair users, comprises of a platform configured to accommodate a wheelchair and support autonomous navigation, the platform is equipped with omnidirectional wheels at the base for movement within retail environments, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit integrated with a LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) sensor mounted on a telescopic rod at the front of the platform to enable safe and autonomous docking of the wheelchair, at least two horizontal grooves embedded with slider tracks on the top surface of the platform, at least one articulated pneumatic bar with clamp ends mounted to the sliders, configured to automatically extend and clamp the rear wheels of a wheelchair, a base plate located within the grooves, integrated with a lifting and rotating arrangement and multiple retractable side clamps to securely mount and orient the wheelchair during platform navigation, a touchscreen display mounted on an articulated telescopic arm provided with the platform to allow user to input through the touchscreen with ease, an articulated robotic arm with a gripper at its end effector provided with the platform, configured to retrieve items user-specified items from the retail environment and deposit the retrieved items into a basket magnetically mounted on the platform’s rear portion, an integrated barcode scanner provided with the basket for automatic item recognition and synchronized with the display to reflect item status and show relevant promotions and generate an itemized bill based on previously scanned items and enables payment via an electronic gadget, a user-interface inbuilt in a computing unit accessed by a concerned caretaker of the user to set boundaries for autonomous navigation of the wheel within the boundary, a GPS (Global Positioning System) module is integrated within the microcontroller to track real-time location coordinates of the user relative to store boundaries.

[0016] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the device includes force sensors integrated with the clamps to regulate clamping pressure, a voice recognition unit is integrated with the platform for receiving voice commands of the user, enabling hands-free command initiation for navigation, item search, or information requests, a holographic projection unit is integrated into the platform to display a 3D (three-dimensional) virtual assistant that interacts with users via voice recognition to guide navigation and offer product or store-related information, a facial recognition module is integrated with the platform verifies registered users and retrieves a pre-stored profile including user preferences, purchase history, and body measurements, the lifting and rotating base plate allows the wheelchair user to adjust orientation for easier access to items placed to the left or right during shopping, the gripper of the picking arm includes pressure sensors to ensure delicate handling, the barcode scanner within the basket is operable to verify each item during placement and simultaneously update billing and categorization data, the imaging unit provides personalized suggestions based on the user’s health conditions, prior purchases, and current trends, including suggestions for nutritional needs, comfort-enhancing accessories, and wheelchair maintenance products, the imaging unit switches to product analysis mode to evaluate item suitability based on colour, size, material, defect detection, and user profile data, and display a virtual try-on simulation on the touchscreen.

[0017] While the invention has been described and shown with particular reference to the preferred embodiment, it will be apparent that variations might be possible that would fall within the scope of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:
Figure 1 illustrates an isometric view of a retail support device for wheelchair users.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0019] The following description includes the preferred best mode of one embodiment of the present invention. It will be clear from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to these illustrated embodiments but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be seen as illustrative and not limiting. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

[0020] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms "comprising," "comprises,” and the like (which are synonymous with "including," "having” and "characterized by") may be replaced by the respective partially closed phrases "consisting essentially of," consists essentially of," and the like or the respective closed phrases "consisting of," "consists of, the like.

[0021] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” designate both the singular and the plural, unless expressly stated to designate the singular only.

[0022] The present invention relates to a retail support device for wheelchair users that is developed to help individuals in wheelchairs by allowing proper navigation within a retail space to provide complete assistance with shopping tasks in real-time and in a personalized manner for seamless experience.

[0023] Referring to Figure 1, an isometric view of a retail support device for wheelchair users is illustrated, comprises of a platform 101 equipped with omnidirectional wheels 102, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 103 mounted on a telescopic rod 104 at the front of the platform, a base plate 105 located within the grooves, integrated with a lifting and rotating arrangement 106 and multiple retractable side clamps 107, a touchscreen display 108 mounted on an articulated telescopic arm 109 provided with the platform.

[0024] Figure 1 further illustrates an articulated robotic arm 110 with a gripper 111 at its end effector provided with the platform, a basket 112 magnetically mounted on the platform’s rear portion, an integrated barcode scanner 113 provided with the basket 112, a voice recognition unit 114 is integrated with the platform, and a holographic projection unit 115 is integrated into the platform, and one articulated pneumatic bar 116 with clamp 117 at the ends mounted to the sliders 118.

[0025] The device includes a platform 101 preferably in portable cuboidal shape encasing various components associated with the device, developed to be positioned on a ground surface. The platform 101 is made up of any material selected from but not limited to metal or plastic that ensures rigidity of the platform 101 for longevity of the device.

[0026] The platform 101 is configured in a way such that comprise Omni-directional wheels 102 positioned underneath the platform 101 for translation of the platform 101 as per requirement. Each wheel 102 is mounted on a swiveling axle, allowing for free rotation, which enables the user to navigate easily around obstacles and uneven surface.

[0027] A user is required to access and presses a switch button arranged on the … to activate the device for associated processes of the device. The switch button when pressed by the user, opens up an electrical circuit and allows currents to flow for powering an associated microcontroller of the device for operating of all the linked components for performing their respective functions upon actuation.

[0028] After the activation of the device, the user accesses a voice recognition unit 114 is integrated with the platform 101 for receiving voice commands of the user, enabling hands-free command initiation for navigation, item search, or information requests.

[0029] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the voice recognition unit 114 includes a microphone to accurately capture voice commands from the user. The microphone turns the sound energy emitted by the user into electrical energy. The sound waves created by the user carry energy towards the microphone. Inside the microphone, a diaphragm, made of plastic, is present and moves back and forth when the sound wave hits the diaphragm. The coil attached to the diaphragm also moves in same way. The magnetic field produced by the permanent magnet cuts through the coil. As the coil moves, the electric current flows. The electric current from coil flows to an amplifier which convert the sound into electrical signal. The microcontroller linked to the microphone recognize the voice and perform the operations according to the command given by the user regarding navigation, item search, or information requests.

[0030] Upon receiving of the user input, the microcontroller actuates a telescopic rod 104 configured at the front of the platform 101 to position an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 103 mounted on the rod 104 for facial recognition of users. The telescopic rod 104 is powered by a pneumatic unit that includes an air compressor, air cylinder, air valves and piston which works in collaboration to aid in extension and retraction of the rod.

[0031] The pneumatic unit is operated by the microcontroller, such that the microcontroller actuates valve to allow passage of compressed air from the compressor within the cylinder from one end, the compressed air further develops pressure against the piston and results in pushing and extending the piston. The piston is connected with the rod 104 and due to applied pressure the rod 104 extends and similarly, the microcontroller retracts the rod 104 by pushing compressed air via the other end of the cylinder, by opening the corresponding valve resulting in retraction of the piston, and the retraction of the rod. Thus, the microcontroller regulates the extension/retraction of the rod 104 as per requirement.

[0032] Once positioned, the microcontroller activates the artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 103 integrated on the platform 101 for capturing multiple images in a vicinity of the platform. The imaging unit 103 incorporates a processor that is encrypted with an artificial intelligence protocol. The artificial intelligence protocol operates by following a set of predefined instructions to process data and perform tasks autonomously. Initially, data is collected and input into a database, which then employs protocol to analyze and interpret the captured images. The processor of the imaging unit 103 via the artificial intelligence protocol processes the captured images and sent the signal to the microcontroller.

[0033] The imaging unit 103 is integrated with a LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) sensor that operates by emitting laser pulses and measuring the time it takes for these pulses to return after bouncing off surfaces. The module sends out rapid pulses of laser light towards the surroundings. In the presence of any object, the laser pulses may be scattered or absorbed differently compared to solid surfaces, leading to variations in the reflected signal. The module uses these variations to identify and map the location and size of object. The data is then processed by the microcontroller to enable safe and autonomous docking of the wheelchair.

[0034] The platform 101 is positioned in proximity to the wheelchair for allowing the wheelchair to get accommodated over the platform. The platform 101 consists of two horizontal grooves embedded with sliders 118 tracks on the top surface of the platform. The slider 118 consists of a sliding rail configured through the groove to provide sliding movement to the connected components along the length if the groove. The sliders 118 is powered by a motor, activated by the microcontroller to provide movement in a bi-directional manner.

[0035] The tracks provide movement to one articulated pneumatic bar 116 to extend for positioning a clamp 117 configured at the end of the bar 116 near the rear wheels of the wheelchair. The clamp 117 used herein is powered by the pneumatic arrangement associated with the device. The extension/retraction works in the same manner as telescopic rod 104 described earlier to position the clamp 117 to secure the wheels of the wheelchair over the grooves. The clamp 117 works by using two opposing jaws to hold wheelchair securely in place. The clamp 117 typically includes a screw or lever which makes the jaws move closer together and apply pressure to grip the wheels of the wheelchair tightly.

[0036] The grooves are integrated with a base plate 105 having a lifting and rotating arrangement 106 to adjust the wheelchair over the platform. The lifting and rotating base plate 105 allows the wheelchair user to adjust orientation for easier access to items placed to the left or right during shopping.

[0037] The lifting and rotating arrangement 106 uses a hydraulic unit that raises or lowers the base plate, enabling the wheelchair to be elevated to an optimal height for easier access to shopping items or to align with the platform's workspace. The hydraulic unit comprises of a hydraulic pump, a hydraulic reservoir, a hydraulic fluid, hydraulic valves, hydraulic cylinders and a hydraulic pump. The hydraulic pump pressurizes the fluid from the reservoir and sends through the hydraulic hose to cylinder. The fluid pressure pushes against the piston, causing it to move. Because the piston is attached to the lifting arrangement, this movement extends the lifting and rotating arrangement 106 outward from the cylinder. The lifting arrangement continues to extend as long as fluid is being pumped into the cylinder. When the lifting arrangement reaches the desired height, the pump stops, and the fluid remain in the cylinder for holding the lifting arrangement in place. To retract the lifting arrangement, the hydraulic fluid is directed out of the cylinder and back to the reservoir. This causes the piston to move back into the cylinder, retracting the lifting arrangement.

[0038] The rotating component of lifting and rotating arrangement 106 is usually powered by a motorized turntable arrangement that allows the base plate 105 and consequently the wheelchair to rotate horizontally around a vertical axis. This rotation is controlled by the microcontroller to position the wheelchair in the desired direction, whether to access items on the left or right side. Together, the lifting and rotating features enhance user comfort and accessibility by allowing the wheelchair to be adjusted in height and orientation seamlessly.

[0039] The plate 105 is configured with multiple retractable side clamps 107 to securely mount and orient the wheelchair during platform 101 navigation. These side clamps 107 are typically operated by a motorized means that retracts or extends them as needed. When engaged, the side clamps 107 apply gentle pressure to stabilize and prevent lateral movement, ensuring the wheelchair remains securely positioned on the platform. When not in use, the side clamps 107 retract to allow easy mounting or dismounting of the wheelchair.

[0040] The side clamps 107 are integrated with force sensors, activated by the microcontroller to regulate clamping pressure. The force sensor is an equipment whose resistance varies with applied force. It converts force, pressure, tension, weight, etc., into a change in electrical resistance which is then be measured. When external forces are applied to a stationary object, stress and strain are the result and the signal are sent to the microcontroller for processing in order to monitor the applied force of the side clamps 107 over the wheel of the wheelchair.

[0041] The platform 101 is installed with an articulated telescopic arm 109, actuated by the microcontroller to position a touchscreen display 108 in vicinity to the user’s eye level. The arm 109 used herein is powered by the pneumatic arrangement associated with the device. The extension/retraction works in the same manner as telescopic rod 104 described earlier to position the touchscreen display 108.

[0042] The user accesses touchscreen displays 108 for providing input regarding required items from the retail environment. When the user touches the surface of the display 108 to enter the input details, then an internal circuitry of the display 108 senses the touches of the displayed option and synchronically, the internal circuitry converts the physical touch into the form of electric signal. The microcontroller processes the received signal from the display 108 in order to process the signal and determine the user selection and store the user response to a linked database for further associated functions related to the user input.

[0043] Additionally, a facial recognition module is integrated with the platform, works in sync with the imaging unit 103 to verify registered users and retrieves a pre-stored profile including user preferences, purchase history, and body measurements. When a registered user interacts with the platform, the microcontroller activates the imaging unit 103 to capture the image of the user's face. Using facial recognition protocol, the module analyses unique facial features such as the distance between the eyes, jawline shape, and skin texture and compares them with encrypted facial data stored in the platform’s database. Upon successful verification, the microcontroller automatically retrieves the user’s stored profile, which includes detailed information such as personal preferences, purchase history, and precise body measurements. This allows the platform 101 to offer customized recommendations, size-specific product suggestions, and a more intuitive interface tailored to the individual’s needs.

[0044] The imaging unit 103 provides personalized suggestions based on the user’s health conditions, prior purchases, and current trends, including suggestions for nutritional needs, comfort-enhancing accessories, and wheelchair maintenance products. Further, the imaging unit 103 switches to product analysis mode to evaluate item suitability based on colour, size, material, defect detection, and user profile data, and display a virtual try-on simulation on the touchscreen.

[0045] Based on the user’s selected items, the microcontroller actuates an articulated robotic arm 110 to position a gripper 111 configured at the end of the arm 110 near the user-desired item from the retail environment. The robotic arm 110 comprises, motor controllers, arm, end effector and sensors. All these parts are configured with the microcontroller. The elbow is at the middle section of the arm 110 that allows the upper part of the arm 110 to move the lower section independently. Lastly, the wrist is at the tip of the upper arm 110 and attached to the end effector thereby the end effector works as a hand to position the gripper.

[0046] The gripper 111 grips the user-specified items and deposit the retrieved items into a basket 112 magnetically mounted on the platform’s rear portion, monitored by the imaging unit. The basket 112 is equipped with a magnetic material that interact with a corresponding magnetic surface attached to the platform. The imaging unit 103 monitors the basket 112’s position and stability, ensuring proper placement during operation. This magnetic fastening allows for quick attachment and detachment of the basket 112, facilitating efficient collection and deposit of items without the need for mechanical locks.

[0047] The gripper 111 is integrated with pressure sensors, activated by the microcontroller to ensure delicate handling of fragile or perishable products. The pressure sensors in the gripper 111 operate based on detecting changes in force or stress applied to their sensing elements using piezoresistive technique. When the gripper 111 applies force to the item, the sensor’s material deforms slightly, altering its electrical properties such as resistance. These changes are converted into electrical signals by the sensor circuitry, which are then transmitted to the microcontroller. The microcontroller interprets these signals and compare to a pre-fed database to determine the amount of pressure applied, enabling precise control of the gripping force to handle delicate items safely and effectively.

[0048] The platform 101 is installed with a holographic projection unit 115 to display a 3D (three-dimensional) virtual assistant that interacts with users via voice recognition to guide navigation and offer product or store-related information. The holographic projection unit 115 comprises of a laser source, beam splitter, spatial light modulator, lenses, and recording medium. The laser source produces a coherent light beam that is split into two by the beam splitter. One is the reference beam and the other is the object beam. The spatial light modulator modulates the object beam by encoding the image information on it and enables the creation of complex interference patterns for producing holograms. Lens redirects the path of the beams to ensure they intersect precisely on the recording medium to guide navigation and offer product or store-related information.

[0049] The basket 112 is configured with an integrated barcode scanner 113 provided with the basket 112 for automatic item recognition and synchronized with the display to reflect item status and show relevant promotions. When an item is scanned, the scanner 113 quickly captures the barcode data and transmits it to the connected microcontroller. This enables real-time recognition of the item, updating its status on the screen and ensuring accurate tracking of the shopping list. Additionally, the display 108 shows relevant promotions or discounts related to the scanned items, enhancing the shopping experience by providing immediate, targeted offers based on the recognized products. The barcode scanner 113 within the basket 112 is operable to verify each item during placement and simultaneously update billing and categorization data.

[0050] Once the items are confirmed by the user, the microcontroller generates an itemized bill based on previously scanned items and enables payment via an electronic gadget, on-screen QR (Quick Response) code, or external POS (Point of Sale) unit, with the basket 112 detaching magnetically for easy handling. During the checkout process, the microcontroller generates a unique QR code that encodes payment information, transaction details, or a secure link to complete the payment. The user scans this QR code using their gadget equipped with a QR code scanner 113 or camera. Once scanned, the user's device directs them to a secure payment gateway or app, allowing them to authorize and complete the transaction conveniently without physical contact or entering card details manually.

[0051] The external POS (Point of Sale) unit includes a card reader (for credit/debit cards), a cash register, a barcode scanner 113, and a display interface. During checkout, the user or staff manually inputs the total amount or scans items, and the external POS facilitates payment processing through card swipes, chip insertion, contactless NFC payments, or other methods. It securely communicates with banking networks to authorize and complete the payment. The external POS is often connected to the microcontroller for record-keeping, inventory management, and transaction tracking, making it suitable for retail environments requiring manual intervention or physical card-based payments.

[0052] The caretaker of the user access a user interface which is installed in their computing unit linked with the microcontroller wirelessly by means of a communication module. The user interface enables the user to provide input regarding setting boundaries for autonomous navigation of the wheel within the boundary. The communication module includes, but not limited to Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) module, Bluetooth module, GSM (Global System for Mobile Communication) module.

[0053] The Wi-Fi module contains transmitters and receivers that use radio frequency signals to transmit data wirelessly to the microcontroller. The wireless module typically includes components such as antennas, amplifiers, and processors to facilitate communication and further connected to networks such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or cellular networks, allowing devices to exchange information over short or long distances for communication of wireless commands to facilitate navigation of the wheel within the boundary.

[0054] The microcontroller is integrated with a GPS (Global Positioning System) module is integrated within the microcontroller to track real-time location coordinates of the user relative to store boundaries. The GPS module receives signals from multiple satellites in orbit around the Earth. These satellites transmit precise timing and position information of the user relative to store boundaries. The GPS module receives these signals and uses the time delay between transmission and reception to calculate the distance between the GPS module and each satellite. By triangulating the distances from multiple satellites, the GPS module determines its own position on the Earth's surface. This position is typically given in latitude and longitude coordinates. The magnetometer measures the strength and direction of the magnetic field in its vicinity.

[0055] By utilizing the magnetometer's measurements, the GPS module determine the band heading or orientation relative to magnetic north. The magnetometer provides information about the direction of the Earth's magnetic field, which is compared with the band position information obtained from the GPS module. The outputs of the GPS module and the magnetometer are combined and processed by the microcontroller in order to determine user relative to store boundaries. Based on the detected location of the user, if there is unauthorized movement beyond set boundaries, the microcontroller automatically halts platform 101 operation, engage wheel locks, and notify concerned store staff.

[0056] The wheel’s lock includes a clamp around the wheel or its hub. When locked, the clamp physically restricts the wheel's movement by exerting pressure on the sides. The clamp could be tightened manually or automatically via a locking arrangement, ensuring the wheel cannot turn or shift.

[0057] Moreover, a battery (not shown in figure) is associated with the device to supply power to electrically powered components which are employed herein. The battery is comprised of a pair of electrodes known as a cathode and an anode. A voltage is generated between the anode and cathode via oxidation/reduction and thus produces the electrical energy to provide to the device.

[0058] The present invention works best in the following manner, where the wheelchair user enters a retail environment and is automatically identified via the facial recognition module integrated into the imaging unit. Upon recognition, the platform 101 retrieves the user’s personalized profile, including preferences, purchase history, and ergonomic settings. The telescopic arm 109 adjusts the touchscreen to the user’s eye level for comfortable interaction, while the base plate 105 and clamps securely fasten the wheelchair, ensuring stability during movement. Using omnidirectional wheels 102 and real-time LiDAR mapping, the platform 101 autonomously navigates through store aisles within preset boundaries defined by the caretaker via the interface. The user may input commands through the touchscreen, voice interface, or a 3D holographic assistant. When an item is selected, the robotic arm 110 locates, gently picks using pressure-sensitive grippers, and deposits it into a magnetically mounted basket 112. The barcode scanner 113 verifies and updates item data and billing in real-time. Simultaneously, the AI unit offers personalized suggestions based on user health, preferences, or trends. At checkout, payment is completed via QR code, mobile device, or POS. Any breach of set boundaries triggers immediate alerts, locks the wheels 102, and notifies store personnel.

[0059] Although the field of the invention has been described herein with limited reference to specific embodiments, this description is not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternate embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. , Claims:1) A retail support device for wheelchair users, comprising:

i) a platform 101 configured to accommodate a wheelchair and support autonomous navigation, wherein the platform 101 is equipped with omnidirectional wheels 102 at the base for movement within retail environments;
ii) an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 103 integrated with a LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) sensor mounted on a telescopic rod 104 at the front of the platform, said imaging unit 103 is configured for facial recognition of users and said LiDAR sensor is configured for environmental mapping to enable safe and autonomous docking of the wheelchair;
iii) at least two horizontal grooves embedded with sliders 118 tracks on the top surface of the platform, at least one articulated pneumatic bar 116 with clamp 117 ends mounted to the sliders 118, configured to automatically extend and clamp the rear wheels of a wheelchair;
iv) a base plate 105 located within said grooves, integrated with a lifting and rotating arrangement 106 and multiple retractable side clamps 107 to securely mount and orient the wheelchair during platform 101 navigation;
v) a touchscreen displays 108 mounted on an articulated telescopic arm 109 provided with the platform, said arm 109 is configured to adjust based on the user’s eye level, enabling the user to input through the touchscreen with ease;
vi) an articulated robotic arm 110 with a gripper 111 at its end effector provided with the platform, configured to retrieve items user-specified items from the retail environment, wherein said imaging unit 103 identifies the user-specified items and deposit the retrieved items into a basket 112 magnetically mounted on the platform’s rear portion;
vii) an integrated barcode scanner 113 provided with the basket 112 for automatic item recognition and synchronized with the display 108 to reflect item status and show relevant promotions, wherein the microcontroller generates an itemized bill based on previously scanned items and enables payment via an electronic gadget, on-screen QR (Quick Response) code, or external POS (Point of Sale) unit, with the basket 112 detaching magnetically for easy handling; and
viii) a user-interface inbuilt in a computing unit accessed by a concerned caretaker of the user to set boundaries for autonomous navigation of the wheel within the boundary, wherein a GPS (Global Positioning System) module is integrated within the microcontroller to track real-time location coordinates of the user relative to store boundaries, and in response to unauthorized movement beyond set boundaries, said microcontroller automatically halt platform 101 operation, engage wheel locks, and notify concerned store staff.

2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein force sensors integrated with the clamps to regulate clamping pressure.

3) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a voice recognition unit 114 is integrated with the platform 101 for receiving voice commands of the user, enabling hands-free command initiation for navigation, item search, or information requests.

4) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a holographic projection unit 115 is integrated into the platform 101 to display a 3D (three-dimensional) virtual assistant that interacts with users via voice recognition to guide navigation and offer product or store-related information.

5) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said facial recognition module verifies registered users and retrieves a pre-stored profile including user preferences, purchase history, and body measurements.

6) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said lifting and rotating base plate 105 allows the wheelchair user to adjust orientation for easier access to items placed to the left or right during shopping.

7) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the gripper 111 of the picking arm 109 includes pressure sensors to ensure delicate handling of fragile or perishable products.

8) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the barcode scanner 113 within the basket 112 is operable to verify each item during placement and simultaneously update billing and categorization data.

9) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said imaging unit 103 provides personalized suggestions based on the user’s health conditions, prior purchases, and current trends, including suggestions for nutritional needs, comfort-enhancing accessories, and wheelchair maintenance products.

10) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said imaging unit 103 switches to product analysis mode to evaluate item suitability based on color, size, material, defect detection, and user profile data, and display a virtual try-on simulation on the touchscreen.