Virtual world internet web site using common and user-specific metrics

Abstract

Techniques make surfing global computer networks, such as the Internet World Wide Web, more satisfying and / or pleasurable. A “Virtual World” is simulated which graphically and functionally restores a user's sense of proximity, or distance, while surfing on the Web. A visitor to this Virtual World is presented with the ability to traverse a two- or three-dimensional geographic terrain. The visitor’ icon is moved along the graphic display in the direction of various destinations representing by appropriate graphic designations, with subsequent pages being cached in the preferred embodiment so that subsequent pages are instantly displayed, eliminating the annoying delay often associated with the choice of a subsequent page of a web site. Metrics, including Common Metrics and Customized Metrics, are used to enhance user interactions. A Common Metric is when the geographic terrain on which the various visitors are located is common to all, so that one person can approach the other person by reducing the distance between the two. Customized Metrics, based upon user profiles or interaction histories, are attached to a person, indicating how their “view” of the Virtual World should be constructed. In addition to dedicated Web sites, the invention is applicable to portals or front ends of web sites wherein, for example, an initial or early screen provides a user or visitor with a variety of choices, each connected with one or more additional screens or Web site pages. Regardless of implementation, the invention improves a user's experience during visiting a Web site in several ways, including e-commerce sites wherein each visitor is be assigned an icon that can be moved between destinations graphically represented on the site display at a visually perceptible rate, using virtual currency to purchase goods or services.

Description

REFERENCE TO PRIOR APPLICATIONS [0001] This application claims priority of U.S. provisional application Ser. Nos. 60 / 113,749 filed Dec. 23, 1998, and 60 / 118,259, filed Feb. 2, 1999, the entire contents of both of which are incorporated herein by reference.FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0002] This invention relates generally to the Internet and, in particular, techniques and methods for presenting users of the World Wide Web with more life-like metrics. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0003] There is an increasing desire for the mass population to experience the Internet in general and the World-Wide Web in particular. When compared with real life, the Web-surfing experience is different in several respects. First, without a cable modem or other type of high-speed connection, it takes time for a site to be contacted. Once reached, the site presents a number of choices simultaneously. This pattern of alternating “wait” (for the site to be contacted) and “hurry” (for decisions to be made) often c...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0006] This invention is directed to techniques which make surfing global computer networks, such as the Internet World Wide Web, more satisfying and / or pleasurable to users. Broadly, the invention simulates a “Virtual World” which graphically and functionally restores a user's sense of proximity, or distance, while surfing on the Web. In meeting this objective, a visitor to this Virtual World is presented with the ability to traverse a two- or three-dimensional geographic terrain. The visitor's icon is moved along the graphic display in the direction of various destinations representing by appropriate graphic designations. Subsequent pages are cached in the preferred embodiment so that probable new destinations are rapidly displayed, eliminating the annoying delay often associated with the choice of a subsequent page of a web site.

[0007] Metrics, including Common Metrics and Customized Metrics, are used to enhance user interactions. A Common Metric is when the geographic terrain on which the various visitors are located is common to all, so that one person can approach the other person by reducing the distance between the two. In contrast, Customized Metrics, based upon user profiles or interaction histories, are attached to a person, indicating how their “view” of the Virtual World should be constructed.

[0009] In addition to dedicated Web sites, the invention is applicable to portals or front ends of web sites wherein, for example, an initial or early screen provides a user or visitor with a variety of choices, each connected with one or more additional screens or Web site pages. Regardless of implementation, the invention improves a user's experience during visiting a Web site in several ways, including e-commerce sites wherein each visitor is be assigned an icon that can be moved between destinations graphically represented on the site display at a visually perceptible rate, using virtual currency to purchase goods or services.

Problems solved by technology

First, without a cable modem or other type of high-speed connection, it takes time for a site to be contacted.

This pattern of alternating “wait” (for the site to be contacted) and “hurry” (for decisions to be made) often creates a stressful rather than relaxing experience, particularly for new users.

None of which, however, presents a real-life experience of encounter.

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