Consumer Electronics
Sandwiching AR Into Glass: An Interactive Smart Mirror for Retail
Solving a hardware problem with no off-the-shelf answer — a touchscreen and depth-sensing camera layered behind real mirrored glass for salons, malls, and boutiques.
Product
Interactive AR Smart Mirror
Client
An EU-based technology company.
Problem Statement
The client envisioned an AR-enabled smart mirror for salons, malls, boutiques, and clothing stores. Key requirements included a touchscreen interface seamlessly integrated with a glass mirror, a depth-sensing camera for AR functionality, custom software compatibility, voice control, and a compact, portable design for versatile installation.
Solution
The Interactive AR Smart Mirror shows how careful hardware engineering can turn a traditional mirror into a smart, interactive device.
Approach
Research and Feasibility Study
- Technical feasibility — a detailed study into integrating a touchscreen with mirrored glass, while preserving AR compatibility, depth perception, and precise touch responsiveness.
- Hardware challenges — since no off-the-shelf solution existed, the team analyzed requirements for a 3D camera and built a tailored approach from there.
- Custom solution — a unique configuration sandwiching glass between the display and touch layer, to achieve full functionality without compromising the mirror itself.
Component Selection and Procurement
- High-quality touchscreens, display panels, and mirrors selected to the required dimensions.
- An open-source hardware board (Raspberry Pi) chosen for flexibility, global availability, and SDK support.
- A 3D perception camera compatible with AR applications.
Initial Prototype Development
- Raspberry Pi for cost efficiency, availability, and customization flexibility.
- Android OS installed for immediate functionality, avoiding costly, time-consuming custom OS development.
- A 3D-printed frame assembled to securely hold the glass, touch layer, and screen, keeping the unit portable and robust.
Refining the Prototype
- Added ports for 3D camera connectivity to enable AR depth perception.
- Installed HDMI, microphone, and speaker ports for extended multimedia capability.
- Optimized power supply, lighting, and alignment for a compact, user-friendly design.
Testing and Validation
The prototype was validated for smooth touchscreen operation on mirrored glass, accurate AR depth perception through the integrated camera, and stability across the different environmental conditions expected in salons and malls, before final approval.
Production Assistance
To address cost concerns, Techshlok connected the client with a Chinese manufacturer specializing in mirror-embedded touchscreen displays, enabling scalable production at reduced cost — delivering a state-of-the-art AR-enabled smart mirror aligned with the client’s goals of innovation and affordability.
