Method for accessing a digital object associated with a real object in software

Abstract

The invention relates to a computer-implemented method for accessing an avatar of a real object (OB1), the method comprising:  generating (GEN1) a transaction identifier;  determining (DET1) an identifier of a digital object (ON1) of the first real object (OB1) from the transaction identifier, the digital object (ON1) being associated with the first real object (OB1);  generating (GEN2) a code (QRC1) to access a first graphic library, each digital object of the graphic library being associated with a real object (OB1);  receiving (REC1) the access code (QRC1) by a first server (SERV1) hosting at least one software component to implement the first software;  unlocking (DEV1) the graphic library (QRC1) from the access code (QRC1);  selecting (SEL1) the digital object (ON1) within the first software and;  displaying (AFF1) the digital object (ON1).

Description

[0001] METHOD FOR ACCESSING A DIGITAL OBJECT ASSOCIATED WITH A REAL OBJECT IN SOFTWARE

[0002] Field of invention

[0003] The field of the invention relates to methods and systems for accessing digital objects and using them within software. The field of the invention relates to methods and systems for accessing virtual objects relating to physical objects, making it possible to create a digital representation of a real object in the virtual environment.

[0004] State of the art

[0005] Many software solutions, including video games or virtual environments that replicate a real-life environment, require some form of customization to immerse a user in a given environment. The immersive experience helps improve navigation in the environment, decision-making, and the use of all the features offered, thus enabling better performance in the virtual environment.

[0006] There are solutions describing online stores integrated into games, such as video games, allowing a user to access a library of real objects via a platform, software or a game. Such a solution is described in patent document US9044682 published on December 16, 2013. However, these solutions do not provide access to virtual objects related to real objects to enrich a virtual environment. In the latter document, the transaction carried out within the virtual store has no impact on the virtual environment and the graphic elements of the latter are not modified following a transaction.

[0007] There are also solutions producing virtual environments that aim to reproduce a real environment in order to offer a collection of real items represented in the virtual world to facilitate a transaction. One advantage of these solutions is that they allow the construction of a virtual environment representative of real-world data, such as the quantities available in stocks and certain data relating to logistics or the description of objects. However, these solutions do not allow the enrichment of a virtual environment based on an event occurring in the real world.

[0008] However, these solutions do not allow the integration into a virtual environment of representations of real objects that are sufficiently customizable with regard to the actions carried out in the real world by a given user to increase the experience and improve the experience of their immersion.

[0009] There is a need to propose a software solution in which a virtual environment is modified or enriched following the occurrence of an event in the real world. One interest is to develop and enrich software content following an event produced in the real world.

[0010] Another objective is to enable the use of virtual representations of real objects as well as variants of these real objects as soon as the user has shown an interest in said object and wishes to visualize different contexts of this object and representations of the variants of this object in a virtual environment.

[0011] Finally, from the point of view of an organization offering real objects, it may be interesting to offer a catalog of digital objects associated with physical objects to allow an additional experience for a user using a given real object. Indeed, access to a digital object associated with a real object may allow a user to modify the digital object, for example certain aspects of its appearance, to appreciate variants. In addition, access to the digital object may allow viewing said object in certain situations that are difficult to put into real life. Furthermore, access to an ON1 digital object may allow a user to share information with other users about his acquisition relating to the real object.

[0012] Summary of the invention

[0013] According to one aspect, the invention relates to a computer-implemented method for accessing a digital object corresponding to a digital representation of a real object, said method comprising: ■ Generation of a transaction identifier following a transaction between two entities aiming at an acquisition of a first real object by one of the two entities;

[0014] ■ Association of an identifier of a first digital object with the first real object from the transaction identifier;

[0015] ■ Generation of an access code to a first graphic library of a first memory space in which data encoding digital objects is stored, the first graphic library comprising at least the first digital object associated with the first real object, the first digital object of the graphic library being associated with a given software configuration of a first software;

[0016] ■ Reception of the access code by a first server hosting at least one software component to implement the first software;

[0017] ■ Unlocking the graphics library using the access code;

[0018] ■ Selection of said first 3D digital object within the first software and;

[0019] ■ Displaying said first digital object on the display of a first electronic terminal.

[0020] According to one aspect the invention relates to a computer-implemented method for accessing a digital object corresponding to a digital representation of a real object, said method comprising:

[0021] ■ Generation of a transaction identifier following a transaction between two entities aimed at acquiring a first real object by one of the two entities;

[0022] ■ Association of an identifier of a first digital object with the first real object from the transaction identifier, the first digital object being associated with a first digital fingerprint and a serial number, a limited number of the same first digital object being generated;

[0023] ■ Generation of an access code to a first graphic library of a first memory space in which data encoding digital objects is stored, the first graphic library comprising at least the first digital object associated with the first real object, the first digital object of the graphic library being associated with a given software configuration of a first software;

[0024] ■ Reception of the access code by a first server hosting at least one software component to implement the first software;

[0025] ■ Unlocking the graphics library using the access code;

[0026] ■ Selection of said first 3D digital object within the first software and;

[0027] ■ Displaying said first digital object on the display of a first electronic terminal.

[0028] According to a second aspect, the invention relates to a computer-implemented method for accessing a digital object corresponding to a digital representation of a real object, said method comprising:

[0029] ■ Generation of a transaction identifier following a transaction between two entities aimed at acquiring a first real object by one of the two entities;

[0030] ■ Determining an identifier of a first digital object of said first real object from the transaction identifier or a designation of said real object, said first digital object being associated with the first real object, said identifier of the at least first real object being determined from the transaction identifier or its designation;

[0031] ■ Generation of an access code to a first graphic library of a first memory space in which data is stored encoding the digital object associated with the real object, the first graphic library comprising at least the first digital object, each digital object of the graphic library being associated with a given software configuration and being associated with a real object;

[0032] ■ Reception of the access code by a first server hosting at least one software component to implement the first software;

[0033] ■ Unlocking the graphics library using the access code; ■ Selection of said 3D digital object within the first software and;

[0034] ■ Displaying said digital object on the display of a first electronic terminal.

[0035] One advantage is that an organization can grant access to a digital object alongside a real object when a transaction has been made on the real object. This access allows the real object to be enriched with a digital object that can be shared by a user and tested in different configurations.

[0036] According to one embodiment, access to the first digital object is carried out following the authentication of an entity on a first data server hosting at least one software component making it possible to implement the execution of the first software on the first electronic terminal.

[0037] One advantage is to secure access to the digital object based on user authentication in addition to the access code that is generated.

[0038] According to one embodiment, the first memory space is a memory of a first remote server or a local memory of the first electronic terminal comprising the graphical interface making it possible to display the first digital object within the first software.

[0039] An advantage is to save, for example, a collection of digital objects already in the terminal's memory and to release access when checking the access code.

[0040] According to one embodiment, the method comprises:

[0041] ■ printing of said access code on a printable medium;

[0042] ■ reading the access code from a second electronic terminal or from the first electronic terminal when it is different;

[0043] ■ receiving an unlocking key from the read access code and recording said unlocking key in a memory of the first electronic terminal or in a memory of the first remote server;

[0044] ■ transmitting a request to a first data server in order to access said digital object from the unlocking key within the first software. An advantage is to have a single paper or digital ticket containing on the one hand the information relating to the transaction of the real object and on the other hand the information allowing access to the digital object associated with the real object.

[0045] According to one embodiment, the method comprises:

[0046] ■ extraction of first data encoded within the access code including in particular a digital resource locator and an identifier of a digital object and;

[0047] ■ transmitting a request to the first remote server from the digital resource locator, said request comprising an identifier of an account of an entity within the software in order to unlock access to said digital object on behalf of said entity.

[0048] An advantage is to encode not only the access code but also the address of the resource storing the digital object on a data network.

[0049] According to one embodiment, the printable medium comprises data relating to a transaction of the first real object associated with the selected digital object.

[0050] According to one embodiment, the printable medium is a thermally printable purchase receipt containing the price of the actual item. An advantage is that it makes the issue of an access code temporary to facilitate time-limited access.

[0051] According to one embodiment, the method comprises:

[0052] ■ Following the generation of the transaction identification, an acquisition of a first email address of one of the two entities from a third terminal, said first email address having been previously recorded in a memory of the first remote server allowing access to the first software;

[0053] ■ Recording the first email address in a memory of a second remote server, resulting in the generation of the access code. One advantage is that it physically authenticates an individual directly at the time of the transaction by collecting an email address that allows an access code to be received.

[0054] According to one embodiment, the method comprises:

[0055] ■ Following the generation of the transaction identification, an acquisition of a first email address of one of the two entities from a third terminal,

[0056] ■ Transmission of an access code to the email address of said entity;

[0057] ■ Generating a request to the first server or an intermediate server to unlock access to said first digital object.

[0058] In the latter case, the access code can be activated, for example, by means of a hyperlink. Activating the hyperlink allows the request to be generated to the first server.

[0059] According to one embodiment, the method comprises:

[0060] ■ Access to the second remote server by authentication of an entity account, said access being carried out prior to the generation of the transaction identification, said authentication including access to a personal space on said remote server;

[0061] ■ Following the generation of the transaction identification, transmission of a first piece of data linked to the authentication of said entity to a remote server allowing access to the first software;

[0062] ■ Recording of said first data in the memory of a remote server (SERV2) leading to the generation of the access code.

[0063] One advantage is that an organization can generate user accounts, such as customer accounts. When a transaction is made within an organization such as a retailer, the access code can be generated directly within a customer account accessible from a secure access point via an authentication server.

[0064] According to one embodiment, the digital object comprises a plurality of instances, each instance corresponding to a representation of said digital object transformed three-dimensionally, each of the instances being accessible from the unlocking key.

[0065] One advantage is that it allows testing different variations of a digital object that represents a real object. One benefit is that it allows testing user interests in different variations of a digital object.

[0066] According to one embodiment, each digital object comprises or is associated with a first digital fingerprint and a serial number, a limited number of the same digital object being generated.

[0067] One advantage is to publish digital objects that allow an individual to retain loyalty within an organization or entity. Another advantage is to limit series of real objects associated with digital objects. One advantage is to associate a real object with a digital object that has value due to its rarity since it is published in limited numbers.

[0068] A digital object identical to another digital object is an object that has the same geometric characteristics of at least one representation of this digital object on a display. According to one embodiment, when the digital object is defined by a digital 3D model, two digital objects are identical when they have at least one same 3D file representing them.

[0069] According to one embodiment, a second digital fingerprint associated with the first digital fingerprint is encoded in a blockchain. One advantage is to create a digital fingerprint certifying the authenticity of a digital object.

[0070] According to one embodiment, the digital object is:

[0071] ■ a digital textile object such as a digital garment or a digital hat representing a real garment or a real hat;

[0072] ■ a digital automotive object, such as a digital car or motorcycle representing a real car or motorcycle;

[0073] ■ a digital furniture object such as a digital piece of furniture representing a real piece of furniture.

[0074] According to another aspect, the invention relates to a system comprising at least a first terminal and a remote data server and a device for producing a printed access code configured to implement the steps of the method of the invention.

[0075] Brief description of the figures

[0076] Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will emerge on reading the detailed description which follows, with reference to the appended figures, which illustrate:

[0077] Fig. 1: an example of the architecture of the system of the invention;

[0078] Fig. 2: a first example of steps of an embodiment of the method of the invention;

[0079] Fig. 3: a second example of steps of an embodiment of the method of the invention.

[0080] In the following description, a transaction refers to an operation or set of operations where data, information or assets are transferred from one entity to another, ensuring integrity, authentication of the entities, security of the exchange, non-repudiation of the exchange. Such a transaction between two entities is a structured process where the parties involved exchange data, values ​​or services, respecting conditions. This operation can be executed manually or automatically, relying on computer protocols and secure systems.

[0081] Thus, within the framework of the invention, a transaction is not in itself the exclusive result of an act that is necessarily commercial but can encompass cases of transfers of any type of consideration for the acquisition of an object, namely the transfer of a non-fungible token, also known by the acronym NFT, of a lot resulting from a previous action or a classification, of a loan or a rental or even of any type of exchange between two entities.

[0082] Figure 1 represents a system in which a user terminal Ti provides access to software representing a virtual environment. This user is called the "first user". The virtual environment may be a reproduction of a real environment such as a 3D location or a representation of a location in augmented reality, or even a representation of a 2D environment. The software may alternatively be a video game such as a game representing a virtual environment in which objects or characters evolve. The virtual environment may correspond to a digital platform in which an environment includes different locations or representations of locations that can offer different levels of interaction with other users or organizations having access to a shared environment. The interactions may, for example, be implemented using avatars, such as animated characters.

[0083] The terminal Ti therefore comprises at least one calculator for executing the software, a memory for storing variables, parameters or digital objects accessible from a library or any other information necessary for executing the method of the invention. The terminal Ti may comprise a plurality of calculators or memories. The terminal Ti comprises a display for displaying the representation of a virtual environment and the virtual object ONi, also called a digital object, represented in this environment. Note that the digital object ONi is mainly an object accessible from the platform hosting the graphical environment on condition that access rights are obtained for a first user.

[0084] According to one embodiment, a QRCi access code reader can be used when the latter is displayed. Figure 1 also represents a terminal T2 which is used to read a QRC1 graphic code allowing access to a digital object ON1 to be unlocked. The QRC1 graphic code is then generated successively to a transaction carried out between two entities, one of which is the supplier of a real object OB1, called “second user”, and the other entity is the acquirer of the real object OB1 and the first user of the digital object ON1.

[0085] In the latter case, the QRC1 access code can be printed in 1D, such as a barcode, or in 2D such as a QR code or a flash code. Using a graphical code reader, the QRC1 access code encoded in the displayed graphical code can be decoded. This decoded access code can then be transmitted to a resource connected to a NET1 data network. In one example, the address of the resource, such as a URL, more generally referred to as a uniform resource locator, is also encoded in the graphical code.

[0086] Figure 1 represents a first server SERV1 for receiving the QRC1 access code(s) produced and issued by a device. The device may be the second server SERV2 or any other device connected to a data network and producing the access code.

[0087] The first SERVi server is configured to check the validity of the QRCi access code and unlock access, if necessary, to a graphics library containing at least one ONi digital object.

[0088] Figure 1 represents a second server SERV2 for generating an access code QRC1 and / or issuing it following the reception of an identifier of a real object OB1 and the reception of an authorization to produce said access code QRC1. The server SERV2 can also transmit data to a third-party service, such as another server, so that the latter third-party service can produce the access code QRC1 and transmit it to the server SERV1. In the latter case, the third-party service is configured to issue the access code QRC1 under certain conditions, in particular after having received a digital object identifier OB1 and an identifier of the first user.

[0089] Figure 2 represents an exemplary embodiment of the method of the invention. The method comprises a step aimed at generating a transaction identifier IDtr when a transaction has been carried out between two entities. The entities can correspond to two individuals or two organizations or even an individual and an organization. The transaction preferably corresponds to a purchase of a real object OB1. However, according to other examples, the transaction can correspond to an order, a reservation, or even an exchange. According to one example, the transaction corresponds to a recording of data on a blockchain. In all embodiments, the transaction of the method of the invention relates to a real object OB1 whose digital representation ON1 is predefined.

[0090] The step of generating the transaction identifier IDtr is preferably carried out automatically after the transaction. The transaction identifier IDtr can be temporarily recorded in a memory of a device used to carry out the transaction before being transmitted to a remote entity, such as the server SERV1. According to one embodiment, the transaction identifier IDtr is sent to an intermediate server SERV2 which is a server comprising a database of real object identifiers and which is configured to produce an access code QRC1 according to certain conditions. According to one example, the transaction identifier IDtr is generated from a payment terminal of a brand.

[0091] According to another embodiment, the transaction identifier is not the triggering event for initiating the generation of a QRCi access code. Indeed, in certain embodiments, the access code is generated following the transaction without a check of a transaction identifier being carried out. In the latter case, the transaction is associated with a real OBi object either automatically or manually through the action of an operator. According to one case, the transaction includes data designating a real OBi object. This designation can then be used to identify an associated ONi digital object. According to another case, an operator, such as a seller, manually defines the title of the real object, possibly a designation, an identification or a reference. This latter data is then used to identify a predefined ONi digital object.

[0092] A database and more generally a memory is configured to store all the ONi digital objects available for a set of real objects. When an organization has a set of real objects associated with a plurality of ONi digital objects, then this database can be dedicated to the organization. The organization can be for example materialized by an access account to this database. One advantage is to have a set of ONi digital objects that can be made available during the sale, for example, of a real OBi object. A plurality of brands, signs and therefore more generally organizations can each have a database or part of a database making it possible to associate real objects from a catalog with a plurality of predefined digital objects.Thus, the SERVi server can understand ONi digital objects or can query this database in order to import a new ONi digital object into the virtual environment of a first user when a valid access code is provided.

[0093] An interest of these or this intermediate database is to allow to associate real objects OBi with digital objects ONi. The digital object is preferably a digital representation of the real object. It can include shapes reminiscent of that of the real object OBi, colors reminiscent of those of the real object or even patterns reminiscent of those of the real object. In general, at least one characteristic of the visual appearance of the digital object ONi characterizes a resemblance data with the associated real object OBi. An objective quantification of this resemblance can be established to the extent that a set of characteristics relating to the visual appearance of the digital object ONi can be defined to characterize this resemblance. For example, in the case of a car, a design, a finish, colors and shades as well as accessories can make it possible to characterize the digital object which is a representation of a real object.In the case of a garment, a cut, a general shape, finishes such as closures or buttons or even colors such as a set of colors defining a tone can be used together to characterize a level of resemblance to the real object.

[0094] According to one embodiment, a set of ONi digital objects is predefined and can be enriched over time to feed a database of ONi digital objects representing real OBi objects and therefore to associate them.

[0095] The method of the invention advantageously comprises a step of verifying the existence of a digital object ONi associated with a real object OB1 during the transaction so as to activate the generation of an access code or not. In other words, not all transactions result in the issue of an access code QRCi of a digital object ONi, in particular when the latter does not exist or when a limited number of this object has been made accessible and downloaded.

[0096] The QRCi access code allows access to a pre-existing digital object already stored in a memory location to be unlocked. The QRCi access code can be used to generate unlocking data when the latter QRCi code is used in conjunction with at least one other control data such as the identity of a first user, for example, through an email or an account.

[0097] The unlocking data may also result from the positive check of the existence of an ONi digital object and data from an incremented or decremented counter making it possible to limit the number of ONi digital objects made available in the virtual environment on the SERVi server. According to one embodiment, the DATAi unlocking data may be directly the access code generated by the SERV2 server. In this case, identity management of the two servers SERV1 and SERV2 makes it possible to qualify the access code during the identity check so that a first user accessing a virtual environment on the SERV1 server after having identified himself within this server can access the ON1 digital object.

[0098] According to a first example, the access code or the unlocking data DATA1 is data produced following validation of an order from an individual present during the transaction such as a seller. In this first example, the access code or the unlocking data DATA1 is received by the second server SERV2 which validates the issue of said access code or the unlocking data when the identifier of the real object OB1 is decoded and an access code which is associated with the real object OB1 exists. One advantage of this solution is to allow a seller to be free to carry out an act accompanying a transaction for a given customer.

[0099] In a second example, the unlocking data DATA1 is automatically generated when an individual's identifier is recognized in a system in conjunction with the receipt of an access code. An individual's identifier may correspond to a customer account in an account management system of a brand or, more generally, of an organization. In another case, the identifier may correspond to an email address of an individual already registered in a customer account management system.

[0100] According to an exemplary embodiment, following the transaction, an electronic message is sent by a second selling user using equipment used for the transaction and is sent to an email account of the first user of the platform hosted by SERV1 and having carried out the transaction. The first user then has an access code that he can use to unlock access to a digital object when he is connected to his virtual environment. Sending the QRC1 access code directly to the email account of the first user

[0101] According to one embodiment, the access code QRC1 is produced when the double condition is met:

[0102] ■ The receipt of an identifier or designation of a digital object ON1 associated with a real object identifier OB1 which has been decoded by reading the transaction code IDtr or other data produced during the transaction and;

[0103] ■ receiving DATAi unlock data.

[0104] According to one embodiment, the unlocking data DATAi is produced when the double condition is met:

[0105] ■ The receipt of an identifier or designation of a digital object ONi associated with a real object identifier OBi which has been decoded by reading the transaction code IDtr or other data produced during the transaction and;

[0106] ■ Receipt of a QRCi access code by the SERV2 server.

[0107] This operation can be performed by the first server SERV1 or the second server SERV2 or a third intermediate server SERV3 configured to receive this data. This solution makes it possible in particular to dissociate transaction data, which is sensitive, and data used to control the production of an access code QRC1. An advantage of this solution is that the third server SERV3 does not need to know the transactions but only the data used to associate a real object OB1 with a digital object ON1.

[0108] Figure 2 represents a CONS1 console corresponding to a piece of equipment belonging to a retailer of a brand, such as a PC enabling the issuance of a transaction identifier IDtr or an identifier or designation of a real object which was the object or one of the objects of the transaction. For example, such a real object may be a piece of furniture, an item of clothing, a car, a bicycle, etc.

[0109] Figure 2 represents the second server SERV2 which receives the transaction identifier IDtr or the real object identifier or an element validating a transaction with a designation of a real object. In the first case, the server SERV2 is capable of finding the identifier of the real object OB1 from the transaction identifier IDtr due to a configuration allowing querying a database of real objects OB1. According to the second case, the server SERV2 directly receives the identifier or the designation of a real object OB1. In the latter case, the equipment CONS1 of the individual has made it possible to identify or designate the real object OB1 from the transaction identifier IDtr or from a command generated by the individual aiming to transmit a real object identifier. This operation can also be carried out from an exchange of information with another remote server.

[0110] Figure 2 shows a block BL1 that may not be present when data is directly transmitted from server SERV2 to server SERV1. According to the embodiments, an intermediate device in block BL1, such as a server, is configured to receive information and retransmit other data to server SERV1.

[0111] The server SERV1 is a server producing the virtual environment such as that of a video game. This latter server SERV1 receives the access code and an account identifier of a first user. The server SERV1 is configured to unlock at least one digital object ON1 from the reception of this data, that is to say an access code and data characterizing the identity of the first user.

[0112] When the server SERV2 is administered by a brand and the server SERV1 is administered by a game publisher, according to one embodiment an intermediate server (not shown in Figure 2 but present in the block BL1) makes it possible to execute a service between the two servers SERV1 and SERV2. The service corresponds to the association of a real object identified by a system of the brand and a digital object created within a system of the game publisher. Another interest is to match an identity of the first user of a virtual environment of the server SERV1 and an identified having a customer account within the server SERV2. The association of the two entities can be carried out from the same account, the same email or a code validating the authentication of one system to the other system.

[0113] The BL1 block is optional, however it has the advantage of allowing two systems to remain compatible regardless of their technical development by only adapting the intermediate server.

[0114] Figure 2 represents the step of reception REC1 of the access code QRC1 by the server SERV1 producing the virtual environment. This step is also present in Figure 3. The server SERV1 also comprises a service for managing and administering the first users and in particular user accounts. According to one example, the server SERV1 may be a server of a publisher of a video game in which hardware means such as a computer and a memory are configured to generate a 2D or 3D graphic environment. According to one embodiment, the server SERVi comprises a computer for controlling the authentication of a request to unlock access to an ONi digital object.First, when an unlocking request is received, the SERVi server performs an initial comparison to verify the existence of a first user's account, for example by verifying the existence of a first user's email in a database. This operation may result in generating sufficient DATAi unlocking data to allow downloading or access to the ONi digital object.

[0115] According to one embodiment, the SERVi server comprises a calculator for checking that an access code is a valid code. To this end, the calculator may comprise a step aimed at carrying out an integrity check of the QRCi access code issued and aimed at verifying that it is a valid code. The access code, when verified, makes it possible to unlock access to an ONi digital object which will be displayed in the virtual environment generated by the SERVi server calculator.

[0116] An advantage of the invention is to make available a digital object ONi representing a real object OBi, in particular the real object OBi which was the subject of the transaction by the CONSi equipment. The digital object ONi can for example represent a real object OBi such as a vehicle, an item of clothing or any other object from the real world. Thus, the virtual environment can be enriched with a digital object ONi corresponding to a representation of a real object OBi. One advantage is to associate a representation of real content with a virtual environment to produce personalization effects for a first user of a digital platform.

[0117] Figure 2 also represents the SELi selection step of the new digital object ONi made accessible by the SERVi server on a display of a Ti terminal. The Ti terminal can be a Smartphone, i.e. a smart phone or a PC, i.e. a personal computer of a first user.

[0118] Figure 3 represents an embodiment in which the server SERV2 comprises means for producing an access code QRC1 in the form of a graphic code printable on a physical medium or displayable on a screen of an electronic terminal. The graphic code can also be transmitted via a NETi data network to a messaging system of a first user to then be read by a terminal upon receipt.

[0119] In this latter case the SERV2 server receives:

[0120] ■ either a transaction identifier directly from the payment terminal or from a computer and more generally from the equipment of an individual having carried out the transaction, said transaction identifier being associated with a real object OB1;

[0121] ■ either a confirmation that a transaction has been carried out and that this transaction has been associated with a physical object OB1. In this case, an external component represented by PROD(OB-i) is able to determine the real object OB1 which was the subject of the transaction.

[0122] According to another embodiment, a designation of the real object OB1 or its designation is transmitted by means of a command executed on a terminal of a second user carrying out the transaction, for example an individual selling the real object OB1.

[0123] This step is denoted REC2 in Figure 3.

[0124] A step of determining an identifier or a designation of a real object OB1 is carried out either because the information comes from an external component, or because the server SERV2 comprises means for identifying the real object OB1 which has been associated with a transaction. This step can be carried out from a database associating transactions with one or more real object identifiers or designations of one or more real objects.

[0125] According to an exemplary embodiment shown in Figure 3, the server SERV2 comprises a database associating real objects OB1 with digital objects ON1. This database can also be in a server other than the server SERV2. When a real object OB1 is identified and a digital object ON1 exists and is associated with this real object OB1, an access code QRC1 can be generated to allow a first user to access this digital object ON1 when he has carried out a transaction concerning the real object OB1.

[0126] An identification check of the first user is then necessary between the user management system of the SERV2 server and the SERVi server. To this end, authentication data from one of the systems can be used to verify the existence of the first user in the other system and validate the generation of a QRCi access code. According to one example, an email address or a telephone number can be used to validate that the first user has an access account to the platform hosted by the first SERVi server.

[0127] A QRCi access code can then encode data relating to the identification of the ONi digital object and the location of the resource storing said ONi digital object.

[0128] The process steps in Figure 3 can be combined with certain process steps implemented by the other equipment in Figure 2. Thus, Figures 2 and 3 represent different implementation combinations that could be used together depending on the configurations chosen.

[0129] Figure 3 represents an embodiment with an intermediate block BL2 of the method of the invention concerning steps of printing the graphic code so that it can be read by a code reader. The printing step is denoted IMP1. This last step can be carried out on a printable medium. Advantageously, the printable medium is a receipt. According to one example, the printable medium includes the data relating to the transaction and the data relating to the access code QRC1. One advantage is to deliver directly after the transaction a printed medium, such as an invoice, allowing access to the digital object ON1 by reading the access code QRC1 by an optical device and a computer. This reading step is denoted LEC1 in Figure 3. According to one embodiment, the graphic code encodes the access code and other information.Thus, the access code can be read and other information can be interpreted such as the address of the resource storing the digital object ON1.

[0130] According to one embodiment, the block BL2 comprises a step of reading the access code QRC1 which has been printed to access the digital object ON1. Reading the access code QRC1 makes it possible to send a code to a URL making it possible to unlock access to digital content on the first server SERV1. Advantageously, reading the access code QRC1 can lead to the generation of a request in which an identifier of the first user is also sent so that the server SERVi unlocks access to the digital content.

[0131] According to another embodiment, the SERVi server generates an unlocking data DATAi when the printed code is a QRCi access code and the latter must be associated with a user account on the first SERVi server.

[0132] Figure 3 represents an alternative where the unlocking code is generated directly on the SERVi server from the data received following reading of the graphic code, this step is then noted GEN2.

[0133] The unlocking step is denoted DEVi in Figure 2 and Figure 3. The steps for selecting and displaying the digital object ONi on the user terminal are here identical to Figure 2 and are denoted AFFi.

[0134] According to one embodiment, the ONi digital objects comprise an electronic signature enabling each ONi digital object to be individually authenticated. According to one embodiment, the electronic signature may comprise a first encrypted data item. According to one embodiment, a second encrypted data item which may be the same encrypted data item as the first encrypted data item or another encrypted data item enabling the authentication of the first encrypted data item to be validated and the signature to be verified may be generated. This second encrypted data item may for example be inserted into a chain of blocks, more commonly referred to as a "blockchain" in English literature. Such an operation makes it possible to preserve proof of the authenticity of the signature. It is also of interest to enable the authenticity and uniqueness of an ONi digital object that has been used to be certified.

[0135] One advantage of this solution is that it can edit a limited number of ONi digital objects associated with a given OBi real object.

[0136] According to one embodiment, during a transaction of a real object OBi, a request is automatically generated to check the availability of a digital object ONi associated with a real object, or a set of real objects forming different real objects of the same design, we speak of a class of real objects.

[0137] A real-world object class can be defined to gather a set of real-world objects with common characteristics such as model, type, category, representation, color, etc. In the case of a vehicle, this could be a model, a brand, and a configuration. In the case of an item of clothing, this could be a model, a brand, and a color.

[0138] According to one embodiment, a class of real objects can be associated with a set of digital objects. Each digital object in such a set has identical three-dimensional properties. That is, their representation within a given software is identical. However, in one embodiment, each digital object can have different instances allowing different representations of this object such as a 3D vehicle represented with an open door or a closed door or a piece of clothing worn or not. Furthermore, the digital object can be displayed according to a given point of view and therefore have different representations depending on the point of view from which it is displayed on a display. Finally, a digital object can be animated and therefore represented in different contexts.Two digital objects associated with the same class therefore have at least one common representation which allows them to be considered identical within the present invention.

[0139] Thus, each real object of the same class can be represented by a digital object within a given software.

[0140] In order to limit the number of digital objects associated with a class of real objects, an electronic signature can be encoded in the electronic format of the generated digital object.

[0141] The real object class can then be associated with a limited number of digital objects. Each digital object associated with a real object class can include a serial number so as to count them.

[0142] According to an example, if 10,000 cars of a given class are sold, a limited number of digital objects, for example 100, can be downloaded within a software program, by a hundred users. These may be, for example, the first 100 buyers who purchased a car of the given class or the 100 buyers who ordered an option, or the 100 buyers who acquired hardware to run the first software program for representing the digital object or the 100 buyers who acquired software program in which a digital object can be represented. According to an embodiment, when a transaction is carried out and an access code is generated to make a digital object accessible to a user within a first software program, a counter is incremented so as to control the number of digital objects remaining available.Each digital object is preferably already generated and electronically signed, for example from a digital fingerprint. During a new transaction, a query can be automatically generated to verify the remaining number of digital objects available.

[0143] According to a first embodiment, each of the digital fingerprints is predefined in advance for each serial number of a digital object representing a real object or a class of real objects. In this case, the number of fingerprints created corresponds to the number of digital objects having a serial number whose number is to be limited. According to a first case, the digital fingerprint is created from a serial number of the digital object. According to a second case, the digital fingerprint is created from data characterizing a geometry of the digital object or the digital object itself. According to a third case, the digital fingerprint is created from a serial number and / or data characterizing the geometry of the digital object and / or the digital object itself and a date. According to other examples, the digital fingerprint is created from other metadata linked to the digital object.According to another example, the digital fingerprint can be created from any other data in addition to the previous data, namely from the identifier of the digital object, from data defining a 3D model of the digital object, from data characterizing an entity, for example the one initially possessing the real object.

[0144] According to a second embodiment, each of the digital fingerprints is generated during the transaction between the two entities exchanging the real object. In this case, the number of digital fingerprints created for each digital object associated with the real object or the class of real objects is limited according to a count of a number of given transactions relating to the real object exchanged. The count can take into account a number of transactions having a given property. The property can be a geographical or temporal delimitation or even a property linked to an individual constituting an entity of the transaction or any other data. Thus, a server records each transaction relating to the real object and possibly having a given property so as to limit the number of real objects having a digital fingerprint.

[0145] In a first case, the digital fingerprint is created from a serial number of the digital object and a transaction number or any other property characterizing the transaction. In a second case, the digital fingerprint is created from data characterizing a geometry of the digital object or the digital object itself and a transaction number or any other property characterizing the transaction. In a third case, the digital fingerprint is created from a serial number and / or data characterizing the geometry of the digital object and / or the digital object itself and a transaction number or any other property characterizing the transaction. In other examples, the digital fingerprint is created from other metadata linked to the digital object. In another example, a date may be taken into account in the creation of the digital fingerprint.

[0146] According to one example, a digital fingerprint is created in such a way as to generate a unique and irreversible representation of digital data, here of a digital object or of data characterizing the digital object.

[0147] The digital fingerprint is preferably the result of a hash function. The hash function takes as input an arbitrary amount of data corresponding for example to the data encoding the digital object such as its 3D geometry and any other metadata associated with the digital object and produces as output a string of characters of fixed size. An advantage is of a digital fingerprint produced by a hash function is that each input produces the same output. The process and therefore reproducibility is verifiable.

[0148] According to one example, the method of the invention may implement a hash function of the SHA-256 or Keccak-256 type, or any other hash function.

[0149] To ensure the uniqueness of the digital object associated with a digital fingerprint, it is possible to associate information with the digital object to produce the fingerprint. Thus, only the holder of the information associated with the digital object to produce the digital fingerprint is deemed to be the holder of the digital object. This data can be an identifier, a code, a transaction number or a pre-edited serial number. In another example, uniqueness can be obtained from the creation of a token from a blockchain. In this case, the digital fingerprint is used to create an NFT also known as "Non Fungible Token" in Anglo-Saxon literature. In this case, the writing and deployment of a smart contract, called "smart contract" in Anglo-Saxon literature can be carried out on a blockchain.According to one embodiment, this smart contract also includes data relating to the address and identity of the owner or any other metadata.

[0150] According to one embodiment, an ONi digital object comprises several instances making it possible to multiply the representations of said object and to modify certain characteristics of said ONi digital object. In other words, the ONi digital object can be modular and be defined from a customization carried out either by the first user or automatically according to the context of representation in the virtual environment. According to an exemplary embodiment, the color of the ONi digital object is configurable. According to another example, finishing options can be customizable, for example equipment of the object, closures or even coatings.

[0151] According to one embodiment, the ONi digital object can be deformed in the virtual environment based on predefined deformation criteria adapted to other digital objects already existing in the virtual environment and which can be adapted to said ONi digital object. For example, if the ONi digital object is an item of clothing, the deformations of said ONi digital object will result from the postures of a character evolving in the virtual environment. In this case, the modifications made in the form of transformations to the ONi digital object inherit criteria of the transformations already existing and applied to said ONi digital object.

[0152] According to an embodiment in the field of the textile and / or furniture industry, the provision of digital objects before their production in real life makes it possible to know which product is likely to interest an individual before its production. This data makes it possible, for example, to adjust the finishes of a real object or to obtain feedback on the appreciation of one version of a real object compared to another. The feedback can be obtained, for example, by collecting user data by means of transmissions of notifications issued following actions carried out on the digital object in the virtual environment. In the latter case, the transaction can be linked to an object actually acquired in the real environment and the digital object can correspond to an accessory of said real object or a representation, called an instance, of the real object which is a variation of the real object which was the subject of the transaction.

[0153] One interest is to produce real objects more responsibly by collecting usage data from the digital object in a virtual environment. Producing less of a real object, for example a piece of furniture, can in some cases reduce the energy required to produce it and the logistics of transporting it.

[0154] Another interest is to associate a digital object made accessible following a transaction associated with a 3D environment. One interest is to allow an individual to visit a place in which the digital object is represented. For example, a transaction in a hotel can lead to access to a virtual environment comprising virtual rooms with access to digital objects made accessible. One interest is to reduce travel to real places to visit and appreciate given facilities.

[0155] The invention allows in certain cases to save fuel, paper, when the virtual environment in which the digital object has been made accessible allows a user to project a use case allowing him to make a decision in the real world.

[0156] According to one embodiment, from the first software from which a digital object is accessible, a first user can modify said digital object so as to create a particular instance of this object from editing tools accessible within the first software. This instance corresponds for example to a configuration of the given digital object such as its color, or any other property characterizing the appearance of this digital object. The first software then comprises a software component making it possible to create a digital fingerprint, such as a token, which can correspond to a digital signature generated from a key and a timestamp. This electronically signed instance can then be automatically transmitted to a remote data server. Another user having access to this remote server can then access this instance in order to perform an action.

[0157] An interest for the first user is to communicate to an organization an instance of a digital object on which a third party can perform an action. This could be, for example, a representation of a defect, a damaged area, a customization of the digital object corresponding to a wish to modify a real object. Thus, the digital object constitutes a vector of information between two individuals to communicate on an operation to be carried out on a real object.

[0158] According to another embodiment, a first user generates, from a command made on the digital object, a reservation request on a schedule accessible within the first software. Thus, another user of the first software can access a schedule within which information received relating to the time slot associated with the digital object has been generated.

[0159] One benefit is to communicate availability regarding the real object associated with the digital object. This could be an offer to lend the real object, or an offer to rent the real object, or even a reservation of a slot to repair the vehicle in a garage.

[0160] According to one embodiment, the digital object comprises a code encoded in the data encoding the digital object defining an access key to the real object. This scenario is for example particularly interesting for a real object having an electronic card and a wireless connection. This can be a vehicle, a television, a computer, a telephone, household appliances, etc. Thus, the digital object acts as a key allowing to activate a particular service or to activate more generally the real object. An advantage is to allow to regenerate a number of keys necessary for multi-user uses. Thus, the digital fingerprint associated with a digital object can then be associated with a contract. One interest is to generate for example 10 digital objects constituting 10 keys potentially accessible to a user. This user can consume 3 keys for example with his relatives to access the digital object.One advantage is to limit access to the real object and to prevent hacking of access to the real object by a third party who does not have the key. Other advantages of the invention are obtained through different embodiments. In particular, according to one embodiment, one advantage of the invention is to provide, for the purchaser of a real object, a reliable system for identifying and authenticating the real object in order to uniquely link it to its virtual twin. The invention makes it possible to strengthen this authentication through the use of QR codes or any other means of access to the virtual object, unique serial numbers, digital fingerprints. One advantage is to provide a virtual object defining an element certifying the possession of a real object. Another advantage is to provide a virtual element attesting to the possession of a real object from the virtual object alone, which makes it possible to preserve the identity of the holder of the real object.Indeed, the mere presentation of the virtual object allows access to services dedicated to the holder of the virtual object. This security is achieved thanks to the link created between the real object and the virtual object which can be verified thanks to the existence of a transaction or a digital fingerprint generated during the transaction or generated before the transaction and / or thanks to a serial number.

Claims

CLAIMS 1. Computer-implemented method for accessing a digital object (ONi) corresponding to a digital representation of a real object (OBi), said method comprising: ■ Generation (GENi) of a transaction identifier (IDtr) following a transaction between two entities aiming at an acquisition of a first real object (OB-i) by one of the two entities; ■ Association (DETi) of an identifier of a first digital object (ONi) with the first real object (OBi) from the transaction identifier (IDtr), the first digital object (ONi) being associated with a first digital fingerprint (HASHi) and a serial number (Ni), a limited number of the same first digital object (ONi) being generated; ■ Generation (GEN2) of an access code (QRC1) to a first graphic library (LIB1) of a first memory space in which data encoding digital objects is stored, the first graphic library (LIB1) comprising at least the first digital object (ON1) associated with the first real object (OB1), the first digital object (ON1) of the graphic library (LIB1) being associated with a given software configuration (CONFik) of a first software (SW1); ■ Reception (REC1) of the access code (QRC1) by a first server (SERV1) hosting at least one software component for implementing the first software (SW1); ■ Unlocking (DEV1) of the graphics library (QRC1) from the access code (QRC1); ■ Selection (SE L1) of said first 3D digital object (ON1) within the first software (SW1) and; ■ Display (AFF1) of said first digital object (ON1) on the display of a first electronic terminal (T1).

2. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that access to the first digital object (ON1) is carried out consecutively to the authentication of an entity on a first data server (SERVi) hosting at least one software component making it possible to implement the execution of the first software on the first electronic terminal (Ti).

3. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that the first memory space is a memory of a first remote server (SERVi) or a local memory of the first electronic terminal (Ti) comprising the graphical interface making it possible to display the first digital object (ONi) within the first software (SWi).

4. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises: ■ printing (IMPi) of said access code (QRC1) on a printable medium (Si); ■ reading (LEC1) of the access code (QRC1) from a second electronic terminal (T2) or from the first electronic terminal (Ti) when it is different; ■ receiving an unlocking key from the access code (QRC1) read and recording said unlocking key in a memory of the first electronic terminal (Ti) or in a memory of the first remote server (SERVi); ■ transmission of a request to a first data server (SERVi) in order to access said digital object (ONi) from the unlocking key within the first software (SWi).

5. Method according to claim 4, characterized in that it comprises: ■ extraction (EXTi) of first encoded data (DATAi) within the access code (QRCi) including in particular a digital resource locator (URLi) and an identifier of a digital object (ONi) and; ■ transmission of a request (REQi) to the first remote server (SERVi) from the digital resource locator (URLi), said request (REQi) comprising an identifier of an account of an entity within the software (SWi) in order to unlock access to said digital object (0Ni) on behalf of said entity.

6. Method according to claim 4, characterized in that the printable medium (Si) comprises data relating to a transaction of the first real object (OBi) associated with the selected digital object (ONi).

7. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises: ■ Following the generation of the transaction identification, an acquisition of a first email address (MAILi) of one of the two entities from a third terminal (Ts), said first email address (MAILi) having been previously recorded in a memory of the first remote server (SERVi) allowing access to the first software (SWi); ■ Recording of the first email address (MAILi) in the memory of a second remote server (SERV2) leading to the generation of the access code (QRC1).

8. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises: ■ Following the generation of the transaction identification, an acquisition of a first email address (MAIL1) of one of the two entities from a third terminal (T3), ■ Transmission of an access code to the email address (MAIL1) of said entity; ■ Generation of a request (REQ2) to the first server (SERVi) or an intermediate server to unlock access to said first digital object (ON1).

9. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises: ■ Access to the second remote server (SERV2) by authentication of an entity account, said access being carried out prior to the generation of the transaction identification (IDtr), said authentication including access to a personal space on said remote server; ■ Following the generation of the transaction identification, transmission of a first data item (DATAi) linked to the authentication of said entity to a remote server (SERVj) allowing access to the first software (SWi); ■ Recording of said first data (DATAi) in the memory of a remote server (SERV2) leading to the generation of the access code (QRC1).

10. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that the digital object (ON1) comprises a plurality of instances, each instance corresponding to a representation of said digital object (ON1) transformed three-dimensionally, each of the instances being accessible from the unlocking key.

11. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that a second digital fingerprint (HASH2) associated with the first digital fingerprint (HASH1) is encoded in a blockchain.

12. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that the digital object (ON1) is: ■ a digital textile object such as a digital garment or a digital hat representing a real garment or a real hat; ■ a digital automotive object, such as a digital car or motorcycle representing a real car or motorcycle; ■ a digital furniture object such as a digital piece of furniture representing a real piece of furniture.

13. System comprising at least a first terminal (T1) and a remote data server (SERV1) and a device for producing a printed access code (QRC1), said system being configured to implement the steps of the method of any one of claims 1 to 12.

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