Multi-layer digital asset architecture for virtual and mixed reality environments

Abstract

To provide a method for displaying or providing a multi-layer digital asset to a digital environment.SOLUTION: A method includes retrieving, from a digital blockchain ledger, data associated with a first, primary non fungible cryptographic token (NFT). The data includes a first pointer identifying a first retrieval location of a first digital graphics file representative of a primary digital asset, and further includes a reference to a second, sub-asset NFT. The sub-asset NFT includes a second pointer that identifies a second digital graphics file. The method further includes retrieving the first digital graphics file and the second digital graphics file, layering an image from the second digital graphics file on the primary digital asset to form the multi-layer digital asset, and displaying the multi-layer digital asset in a digital environment.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE This disclosure relates generally to architectures and methods that enable users to dynamically change the appearance and / or behavior of digital assets within a virtual or mixed reality environment.

[0002] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This disclosure claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent No. 63 / 164,271, filed March 22, 2021, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety. [Background technology]

[0003] A non-fungible token (NFT) is a non-exchangeable (i.e. non-substitutable) record that is digitally stored and can be sold or traded between different market participants. An NFT often serves as a digital certificate of authenticity or proof of ownership of a corresponding digital or physical item. The records that make up an NFT are often stored in / on an immutable digital ledger, such as a blockchain-style ledger, which can be split across many different nodes or participants that maintain the ledger. Such a blockchain ledger uses some cryptographic means to encode at least part of the contents of the record while providing continuity by referencing previous blocks (in a chain of blocks).

[0004] NFTs typically contain resident data, referred to as metadata, that is stored directly on the blockchain. Due to the cost complexities associated with pushing large amounts of data through the transaction verification process, the metadata often contains pointers or references to off-chain data / digital files, such as photos, graphics, video, and / or audio, that would be cost-prohibitive to store on-chain. When an NFT appears, such as on a user's social media account or in the user's digital wallet, an associated software program can review the metadata and digitally retrieve and display associated photos from the reference file repository. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The present disclosure contemplates a multi-layered, blockchain-secured digital asset formed via a nested reference of a first non-fungible cryptographic (NFT) token to a second NFT token. By stacking or nesting one NFT within another, individual features, advertisements, colors, functions, appearances, accessories, etc., are tokenized and transferable separately from the more primary asset that incorporates the sub-assets. This technology may find particular use within video games, but may also be applicable to other areas such as art, digital collectibles, and augmented / mixed / virtual reality environments.

[0006] In one embodiment of the disclosure, a method for displaying or providing a multi-layered digital asset in a digital environment includes obtaining data associated with a first primary non-fungible cryptographic token (NFT) from a digital blockchain ledger. The data includes core asset information including a first pointer identifying a first acquisition location of a first digital graphics file and a reference to a second sub-asset NFT. The first digital graphics file represents the primary digital asset, and the second sub-asset NFT includes a second pointer identifying a second acquisition location of a second digital graphics file. The method then includes obtaining the first digital graphics file via the first acquisition location, obtaining data associated with the second sub-asset NFT from the digital blockchain ledger, the data including the second pointer, and obtaining the second digital graphics file via the second acquisition location. An image from the second digital graphics file is then overlaid on the primary digital asset to form a multi-layered digital asset, which is then displayed in the digital environment.

[0007] In some embodiments, the second sub-asset NFT may be an advertising asset, and the image from the second digital graphics file may include an advertising logo or sign that can be overlaid on the primary digital asset. The advertising logo or sign may be obtained from a marketplace that includes multiple advertising logos or signs that can be operably selected by a user. In some configurations, the multi-layered digital asset may be displayed in combination with a character avatar controlled by the user within the digital environment.

[0008] In the context of advertising, the second NFT may further include a self-executing contract comprising digital software code that, when executed, automatically transfers an amount to an account associated with the user following display of the multi-layer digital asset in the digital environment. In effect, this smart self-executing contract may compensate the user for display of a selected advertising logo or sign. Thus, the amount may be defined within the digital software code of the self-executing contract. In some configurations, the defined amount may be at least in part a function of at least one attribute of the character avatar. The attribute may be, for example, a sphere of influence, a gamer's rating, participation in a live event or tournament, and the like. In some configurations, the smart contract may automatically transfer the second amount to an account associated with the creator of the primary digital asset, which may be identified within the core asset information of the first NFT. Additionally, in some configurations, the amount may be remitted or automatically transferred to an account associated with the creator of the digital environment. In one example, the primary digital asset may be an apparel or footwear product that the character avatar is operative to wear.

[0009] In some embodiments, the sub-asset NFT may operate to change the color or appearance of the primary digital asset, for example, by completely masking a portion of the primary digital asset to change the color of the primary digital asset.

[0010] In some embodiments, the second sub-asset NFT may be a feature asset. In such a configuration, the image from the second digital graphics file may be a partially transparent overlay, and overlaying the image from the second digital graphics file over the primary digital asset may include overlaying the primary digital asset with a partially transparent overlay such that the primary digital asset is at least partially visible through the overlay. Examples of this type of partially transparent overlay include flames, electricity, or dust clouds.

[0011] The second sub-asset NFT may further include at least one performance attribute that operates to modify at least one of the character attributes or primary digital asset attributes such that the character or primary digital asset behaves in an altered manner within the digital environment. Examples of altered attributes include power-ups, improved performance capabilities, speed, strength, jumping ability, precision, health, etc. In some embodiments, the modification provided by the sub-asset NFT may deteriorate or decrease as a function of time or in response to use of the sub-asset within the digital world or use of the sub-asset in association with a character avatar.

[0012] In some embodiments, the display of the multi-layered digital asset may be contingent upon the occurrence of some external event. By "external," it is contemplated that the event is not specific only to the primary or secondary NFT, but rather involves some occurrence not strictly controlled by the NFT itself. In such a case, the method may include receiving an indication from an external source that the event has occurred, and displaying the multi-layered digital asset only after receiving the indication that the event has occurred. In such an example, the primary digital asset may continue to be displayed prior to the occurrence of the event. In some embodiments, the event is an event or occurrence that occurs outside of the digital environment. For example, it may be another digital event, an occurrence, a sale, news, etc. Or, it may be a real-world event or occurrence. In some configurations, the indication of the occurrence of the event may be received from a blockchain oracle, such as may be implemented through the CHAINLINK blockchain protocol.

[0013] As previously mentioned, the second sub-asset NFT may be fully transferable, separate from the primary digital asset. For example, the method may include forwarding or making a request to transfer the second NFT to a second digital wallet or account, adding or making a request to add instructions for the transfer of the second NFT to the data of the first NFT, and deleting the image from the multi-layer digital asset. Similarly, the second NFT may be leased to the owner of the second digital wallet. In that case, ownership may remain with the first party, while passing a lease token that governs the use of the sub-asset.

[0014] Additional features of the present disclosure are provided in the following description and figures. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0015] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic system diagram of a multi-layer digital asset architecture for virtual and mixed reality environments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0016] The present disclosure generally relates to an architecture and methodology that allows users to dynamically change the appearance and / or behavior of digital assets within a virtual or mixed reality environment, where certain individual features, functions, digital objects, and / or visual modifications are considered as separate sub-assets that can each be purchased, sold, traded, or leased. In general, this technology can create a market for secondary functions to a primary asset.

[0017] In a general sense, the technology utilizes a layered approach to constructing digital assets, whereby a primary digital asset may be modified or affected by one or more auxiliary digital sub-assets. In one configuration, each asset and sub-asset may be represented by a non-fungible token that is registered in a database or distributed blockchain ledger and associated with a particular user's account. Each asset and sub-asset is fully transferable (subject to any contractual restrictions that may exist) and may be transferred, sold, or leased between asset producers, consumers, and / or one or more marketplace facilitators. U.S. Patent Publication Nos. 2020 / 0184041 and 2020 / 0273048 describe various embodiments of what the present disclosure may consider to be a primary digital asset, and are incorporated by reference in their entirety and in their entirety (directly and / or by reference to other U.S. patents or patent publications).

[0018] 1 illustrates generally one embodiment of the present architecture 10 in the context of a basketball video game 12. The technology may be best described in the context of video games, but may also be used in other contexts, such as augmented reality experiences, virtual reality experiences, digital lands and metaverses, advertising for digital products, digital artwork or collectibles, etc.

[0019] As generally shown in FIG. 1, within the context of a basketball video game 12, a user may control a player / character avatar 14 via a connected game console, mobile computing device (e.g., a smartphone or tablet), or computer (not shown). Through a marketplace, events, giveaways, connected retail sales, etc., a user may obtain a particular jersey 16 that the player 14 may wear during gameplay. In this example, the jersey 16 may be considered a "primary digital asset." It may be represented by a non-fungible cryptographic token (NFT) 18 owned by the user and registered to an account or digital wallet associated with the user. The NFT representing the jersey may include certain core asset information 20, such as a pointer or reference 22 to the location of one or more associated graphics files, associated performance information 24, a creator's identity or digital wallet address 26, and / or a hash of a previous cryptographic block 28. Performance information 24 may generally identify how the asset behaves within the environment and / or how it affects or changes the characteristics of the user's player / avatar 14 when worn (e.g., increased speed, jumping ability, or endurance).

[0020] In addition to the core asset information 20, the NFT 18 may, in some embodiments, include or reference one or more sub-assets 30, each of which may be separately tokenized and recorded on a distributed blockchain ledger. As generally shown in FIG. 1, examples of sub-assets 30 that may be tokenized and used with the primary asset may include an advertising asset 32, a feature asset 34, and / or a conditional asset 36. For each of these assets, the primary digital asset may act as a canvas or base layer on which the sub-assets 30 operate or are displayed. Stated differently, in this example, without the primary digital asset to modify or embellish, these sub-assets may have little or no functional utility. Additionally, as described below, the NFT 18 may also include a lease token / sub-asset 38 that may be utilized when transferring usage rights of the primary digital asset to a third party 40 for a limited period of time.

[0021] Thus, in brief summary, a primary digital asset is any item, avatar, avatar "skin," apparel item, footwear item, weapon, sporting equipment, or other digitally represented asset within a video game environment or virtual world (in FIG. 1, the primary digital asset is a basketball jersey 16). While the primary digital asset may exist within the virtual world, its unique existence may be separately secured on a distributed blockchain ledger in the form of an NFT 18. This NFT 18 may then be associated with a digital wallet that belongs to or is accessible by the owner of the asset.

[0022] During the life course or existence of a primary digital asset, the asset can receive various “upgrades”, such as functional upgrades, cosmetic changes, dynamic overlays, advertising signage, etc. Each “upgrade” can be individually represented as its own separate asset and can also be secured on a distributed blockchain ledger as an NFT. In some embodiments, when these tokenized upgrades are “applied” to the primary digital asset, the NFTs of the sub-assets / upgrades can be referenced within the primary digital asset’s NFT (e.g., via pointers to the sub-asset NFTs). That way, when the primary digital asset is imported into a video game / virtual world, the import operation can retrieve all associated sub-assets as well. By building the architecture in this manner, each sub-asset or upgrade can have its own properties that can be loaded into the primary digital asset without permanently altering the underlying primary digital asset itself. Similarly, upgrades are bound by their own ownership rights and can be assigned / transferred separately from the primary digital asset.

[0023] Referring again to architecture 10 shown in FIG. 1, in the context of a basketball video game, “upgrades” that may be applied to an NFT-lined jersey may include, for example, advertising logos / signature (advertising assets 32) that may be laminated onto the jersey, embellishments, accessories, visual effects, performance enhancements that alter the look, feel, and / or performance of the jersey and / or underlying avatar (feature assets 34), conditional features that cause visual or performance changes based on either the occurrence or probabilistic outcomes of external events (conditional assets 36).

[0024] Continuing to refer to the basketball jersey example shown in FIG. 1, in this embodiment, the advertising assets 32 may include a logo 50 affixed to the outer visual surface of the jersey 16 (i.e., within the game 12). In one embodiment, the location and size of the logo 50 on the jersey 16 may be specified in a primary asset NFT 18, which may be specified by the jersey creator 26 (i.e., to maintain some control over the look and feel of the final article). For example, the NFT 18 may include a first advertising token container representing a primary logo to be displayed in a larger form in the center of the jersey 16, and a second advertising token container representing a secondary logo to be displayed in a smaller form on a sleeve, shoulder, or other less prominent location. Each container may be operable to receive a corresponding advertising token, which represents a contractual right to display the advertisement defined by the container. In this embodiment, the advertising token may include a pointer to a graphics file (or an advertising server that may dynamically allocate advertising logos).

[0025] In some embodiments, the logo 50 may simply be a component of a broader advertising / sponsorship contract that may be represented by an advertising token / asset 32. More specifically, possession / ownership of the advertising asset 32 ​​may represent the contractual rights and obligations of a more traditional sports sponsorship. Upon agreement to the terms and scope, ownership of the token is passed to the user's wallet or account and may be referenced or included by the primary NFT 18. In some embodiments, such terms may include an indication of the amount owed to the user for the display of the logo (and / or a mechanism to facilitate automatic transfer) and / or specified terms of the contract. Additionally, in some embodiments, the token may include a mechanism to automatically transfer a portion of the contract amount to the primary digital asset creator and / or game host. In this sense, the advertising asset 32 ​​may include a smart contract that automatically transfers payment from the advertiser or advertising marketplace 51 to the user's account following a certain level of exposure or number of impressions. In the context of open virtual worlds or online streaming of gamer play, as was common in previous eras, the number of impressions may exceed n=1. After the contract is signed, tokens can expire, burn, destroy, or otherwise be deactivated without penalty.

[0026] Continuing with the basketball jersey example, in some embodiments, feature assets 34 may be visual overlays or functional modifications that enhance how the jersey looks, appears, or affects the behavior of the avatar / player 14. Examples of features that may be utilized with the jersey assets include temporary color schemes, fire overlays 52, power overlays, overlaid chains, specific glows or sparkles, and / or various ambient features such as dust clouds, bats, giant hornets, etc. Additionally, in some embodiments, feature assets 34 may include auxiliary features such as jetpacks, rockets, armor, or other features that may have properties that affect performance (e.g., jumping higher, running faster, more force when initiating contact with an opponent's hand). It should be understood that this list of possible features is exemplary and should not be strictly limited.

[0027] In one embodiment, the feature assets 34 may include separate tokenized digital collectibles that, when owned by a user and / or referenced by a primary asset NFT, may alter the functionality or performance of the primary digital assets, the avatar, and even the surrounding virtual environment as perceived by others in the environment. For example, in one embodiment, the feature assets 34 may include a tokenized visual representation of a U.S. patent issued in connection with a particular consumer product, such as basketball shoes. A user's possession of this token may provide a similar shoe with unique abilities, skins, color schemes, and / or performance characteristics when worn by the user's player / avatar. Similarly, possession of an NFT patent image, for example, related to digital advertising and / or virtual environment architecture (such as the present application), may entitle the owner / bearer to unique abilities or control of the environment for a limited or predefined period of time.

[0028] In one embodiment, a method for providing incentives to creators of technology may include creating an NFT digital collectible representing an issued patent in the name of the inventor of the patent. This NFT digital patent certificate may include certain virtual reality or metaverse attributes as feature assets 32 of any product in the metaverse that has a real physical world corresponding product that is marked (directly or virtually) with the patent number represented by the NFT digital patent certificate (i.e., marked within the meaning of 35 USC 287). This NFT digital patent certificate is fully transferable with subsequent value transfers (sale or lease) with a mechanism to transfer a percentage of the copyright to the original owner / inventor.

[0029] While NFT patent images are one embodiment of great collectibles that can provide holders with unique powers (e.g., power-ups, invincibility, unlimited ammo / weapons / strength / speed, etc.), in other embodiments, similar functional benefits may be obtained with collectible NFT trading cards (e.g., a pickleball player's NFT may provide a power-up if the user is playing as a star player in a console-based digital pickleball game). The use of digital collectibles as feature assets 34 may provide new metaverse levels of utility to NFT collectibles that would otherwise be collected only for their exquisite beauty, rarity, or origin.

[0030] Because the feature assets 34 are clearly tokenized and transferable, in some embodiments, the feature assets may be resold on a digital marketplace. A token representing a feature asset may include, for example, a pointer to identify the location of the source of a graphics file, an indication of timing attributes or dynamic capabilities of the feature itself, and / or an indication of how the feature may affect an avatar's behavior or ability metrics. In some embodiments, the token may further have performance degradation based on time or use, whereby the abilities provided to the primary asset / avatar may degrade or decrease over time or use. As such, a model in which users seek to monetize by leasing feature assets may require users to understand the asset's lifespan or performance degradation and balance it against the benefits they may receive (i.e., similar to a rental car, a new car may have a higher rental fee than a 12-year-old car with significant wear and tear). This degradation in performance may further strengthen the collector market by reducing available inventory over time.

[0031] As noted above, conditional assets 36 may be similar to feature assets 34, but may have some element that is triggered or activated by an external event or probability (note that while referred to herein as a conditional asset, it is more appropriately considered a "conditional and / or probabilistic" asset). An example of a conditional asset 36 may include an accessory pack that changes the color of a jersey 16 when a particular real-world basketball player scores a certain number of points in a league game, is selected as an All-Star, wins a league championship, or is inducted into the Hall of Fame. In another example, a jersey may be skinned or have a particular label attached to it if a user achieves a certain number of gamer points across multiple games / platforms, or achieves a particular regional, national, or global player rank. In either case, the trigger originates from a source outside the immediate game environment 12. For example, in one embodiment, the self-executing smart contract or condition evaluation logic 60 may receive input from a data repository, an internet search, a trusted source, a blockchain oracle 62, the game 12, and / or some other third-party reference. The smart contract / logic 60 may evaluate one or more predetermined conditions, and if the appropriate condition is met, the contract / logic 60 may initiate an alteration of the sub-asset token (or its visual representation) to reflect a visual or performance change.

[0032] In some embodiments, a conditional event may include a user crossing a particular geofence boundary (in the real or virtual world). For example, a user's primary digital asset may be a t-shirt that is perceptible on the user's body when viewed using augmented reality glasses / device. Upon purchasing a concert ticket, the user may receive a conditional asset feature pack that includes digital lighting effects that can be applied to the t-shirt. However, the lighting effect is conditional on the user being physically within the concert venue (i.e., crossing the geofence boundary into an activation zone within a predefined time). Leaving this zone may disable the effect. Note that in this example, the feature asset may be received after a verified retail transaction, similar to that described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020 / 0184041, incorporated by reference above.

[0033] In some cases, the conditional assets 34 may include some element of probabilistic chance rather than relying solely on the binary occurrence of an external event. More specifically, such probabilistic assets may include assets that, when purchased / received, have a probabilistic chance of having various forms (e.g., 60% chance of a first form / color, 30% chance of a second form / color, 9% chance of a third form / color, 1% chance of a fourth form / color), but with uncertain visual appearance or functional benefits. Upon the occurrence of some triggering event, a random number generator or other probabilistic selection routine may determine the resulting form of the sub-asset. Examples of triggering events may include a conditional external event, a game-related event, the receipt of a token by the user, or the user (or the user's avatar) crossing a predefined geofence boundary, etc. Continuing with the concert t-shirt example, upon entering the venue, some users may receive a temporary lighting effect, while other users may receive a concert t-shirt skin / applique that persists after the concert or outside the geofence. In some embodiments, once a form is selected, it can be written to a token to achieve persistence.

[0034] Although US Patent Application Publication No. 2020 / 0184041 discusses the use of genetic modifiers for digital assets, the currently disclosed feature sub-assets and conditional sub-assets may be considered non-genetic modifiers. These sub-assets may effectively layer on top of a primary asset without making any core or permanent changes to the primary asset itself. Even if an added layer completely masks a portion of the primary asset (e.g., by overlaying or overskinning a new color scheme onto the primary asset), discarding the feature sub-asset / token simply removes the mask and the primary asset's appearance reverts to its original state.

[0035] The architecture 10 shown in FIG. 1 may provide users with greater control and flexibility in how to best utilize their digital assets within a virtual or mixed reality environment. Because each sub-asset is fully transferable, current technology may also create or expand a marketplace for unused and / or used sub-assets. In some embodiments, as discussed above, each token may be rented out to a third party for an agreed upon period of time. Such a feature may allow users to generate revenue streams by leasing unused assets or sub-assets on a digital marketplace. Examples of unused assets may include specific color schemes and / or redundant features of apparel or footwear products (e.g., if a user has three separate Jetpacks for a jersey, each with different appearances and functional benefits). Additionally, this leasing feature may spawn new businesses within the virtual world, such as Jetpack rental businesses (i.e., a business acquires multiple Jetpack feature assets 34 and rents / leases them to end users for a predefined period of time to travel around the virtual world while flying).

[0036] Similar to the digital marketplace for features, in some embodiments, the architecture may include a digital marketplace for advertising 64. In doing so, a business with a logo 50 generates multiple NFTs, each containing a reference to a particular logo file. In some embodiments, in addition to simply providing a logo, the business may indicate how much they are willing to pay and may provide constraints on usage (geographic, target demographic, gaming, etc.). Once published on the marketplace, users may enter the marketplace and agree to a particular "sponsor" who agrees to wear the logo on the primary asset for a given time or impression. Once the logo is selected, the generated tokens are given to the user, who may begin receiving amounts for displaying the logo 50. Additionally, in some embodiments, the creator of the primary asset may receive a commission for providing a vehicle that supports the logo. Similarly, a game host may receive a commission for providing an environment in which the logo can be seen.

[0037] In some embodiments, this advertising model may create a sports marketing game within a game. More specifically, users want to maximize potential revenue streams by selecting logos from the marketplace that offer the greatest revenue potential. In one configuration, the marketplace may dynamically adjust prices based on constraints set by the companies, each company's target market, the total supply of available ads, the total demand for ads, and the user's sphere of influence. For example, a company may be willing to pay more to advertise to individuals within a target demographic / audience / geography (physical world) than to individuals outside that target demographic / audience / geography. That is, a regional restaurant chain will likely not incur as much expense in advertising in a distant country as it would in its local market.

[0038] In some embodiments, users may be assigned a rating of sphere of influence that may affect advertising costs within a market. More specifically, users with a larger sphere of influence may command higher advertising rates than users with a relatively smaller sphere of influence. The rating of sphere of influence may reflect one or both of in-game influence / visibility and out-of-game influence / visibility. Factors considered within the game may include, for example, game rankings, game points, tournament rankings, team or class rankings, etc. Similarly, out-of-game factors may include performance or rankings across multiple games or platforms, number of followers on one or more social media accounts, amount of content (and associated views / endorsements) recently created / streamed. Thus, similar to professional athletes, the more successful a gamer is in a game or attracts followers outside of the game, the more advertisers will be willing to pay to display a logo associated with that individual.

[0039] While the above disclosure has been made within the context of a basketball video game, it is equally applicable to environmental advertising within a virtual reality or mixed reality digital environment. More specifically, the primary asset may not be a basketball jersey, but rather a billboard or other digital signage. Similar to pricing advertisements based on the reach of a basketball player, advertisements on the billboard may also be priced based on the reach of the billboard. This may be measured, for example, in terms of the number of impressions or views the advertisement is expected to receive over a given period of time.

[0040] In some embodiments, the virtual environment in which the advertisements are hosted may include an application layer that allows any tokenized asset to poll the quantity and nature of other tokenized assets within a given vicinity. In some embodiments, one possible conditional feature may include a visual change or video display when a tokenized asset of a particular value or rarity is within a given vicinity of the primary asset. In one embodiment where the primary asset is a billboard advertisement, the proximity of a particular tokenized asset, or at least a tokenized asset with some given rarity score, may unlock a virtual storefront or virtual experience that overrides the displayed advertisement.

[0041] In yet another example, the technology may be used in connection with digital artwork or collectibles. For example, a digital collectible may include a conditional sub-asset token that changes its static or dynamic appearance based on the occurrence of an external event. For example, an NFT-based image of a greenscape may include a conditional sub-asset that inserts a dynamic image of a blooming corpse flower whenever a known corpse flower blooms in reality (i.e., understanding that a real corpse flower bloom is a rare and often documented event). In this example, the conditional corpse flower sub-asset may be tokenized and generated in a predetermined quantity by its creator. A primary art owner may then take the corpse flower sub-asset and incorporate it into art that they already own. Similarly, a creator may create a spaceship sub-asset that flies to and past the moon, which may be inserted into other digital collectibles. For example, it may be triggered if the price of a company stock of special interest rises above a predetermined amount or percentage.

[0042] It should be understood that the above-described technology may be implemented in a variety of forms, and while reference is made throughout to NFT technology, the technology may be implemented via one or more public blockchains, private blockchains, and / or incorporate one or more side chains, smart contracts, databases, etc.

[0043] Aspects of the present disclosure may be implemented through computer-executable programs of instructions, such as program modules, generally referred to as software applications or application programs, executed in some embodiments by any of the controllers or variations of controllers described herein. Software may include, by way of non-limiting examples, routines, programs, objects, components, and data structures that perform particular tasks or implement particular data types. The software may form an interface that allows the computer to react according to input sources. The software may also cooperate with other code segments to initiate various tasks in response to received data in conjunction with the source of the received data. The software may be stored on any of a variety of memory media, such as CD-ROM, magnetic disks, bubble memory, and semiconductor memory (e.g., various types of RAM or ROM).

[0044] Additionally, aspects of the disclosure may be implemented in a variety of computer system and computer network configurations, including multiprocessor systems, microprocessor-based or programmable consumer electronics, minicomputers, mainframe computers, and the like. The disclosure may also be practiced in distributed computing environments where tasks are performed by remote processing devices that are linked, for example, through a communications network. In a distributed computing environment, program modules may be located in both local and remote computer storage media, including memory storage devices. Thus, aspects of the disclosure may be implemented in association with various hardware, software, or combinations thereof in computer systems or other processing systems.

[0045] Any of the methods described herein may include machine-readable instructions executed by (a) a processor, (b) a controller, and / or (c) any other suitable processing device. Any algorithm, software, control logic, protocol, or method disclosed herein may be embodied as software stored on a tangible medium, such as, for example, a flash memory, a CD-ROM, a floppy disk, a hard drive, a digital versatile disk (DVD), or other memory device. Alternatively, the entire algorithm, control logic, protocol, method, and / or portions thereof may be executed by a device other than a controller and / or embodied in firmware or dedicated hardware in an available manner (e.g., implemented by an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device (PLD), a field programmable logic device (FPLD), discrete logic, etc.). Additionally, although certain algorithms are described with reference to the flowcharts shown herein, many other ways of implementing the exemplary machine-readable instructions may alternatively be used.

[0046] Aspects of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the illustrated embodiments. However, those skilled in the art will recognize that many modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The present disclosure is not limited to the exact structures and compositions disclosed herein. Any modifications, changes, and variations evident from the foregoing description are within the scope of the disclosure as defined by the appended claims. Moreover, the concept of the present invention expressly includes any and all combinations and subcombinations of the elements and features described above.

[0047] Further aspects of the present technology are provided in the following clauses, which should be read in light of the foregoing disclosure.

[0048] Clause 1 11. A method for displaying a multi-layered digital asset in a digital environment, comprising: obtaining data associated with a first primary non-fungible cryptographic token (NFT) from a digital blockchain ledger, the data including core asset information including a first pointer identifying a first acquisition location of a first digital graphics file representing a primary digital asset and a reference to a second sub-asset NFT including a second pointer identifying a second acquisition location of a second digital graphics file; obtaining the first digital graphics file via the first acquisition location; obtaining data associated with the second sub-asset NFT from the digital blockchain ledger, the data including the second pointer; obtaining the second digital graphics file via the second acquisition location; overlaying an image from the second digital graphics file on the primary digital asset to form the multi-layered digital asset; and displaying the multi-layered digital asset in the digital environment.

[0049] Clause 2 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the second sub-asset NFT is an advertising asset and the image from the second digital graphics file includes an advertising logo or sign.

[0050] Clause 3 3. The method of claim 2, wherein the second acquisition location includes a marketplace having a plurality of advertising logos or signs.

[0051] Clause 4 The method of any of clauses 2 to 3, wherein displaying the multi-layered digital asset includes displaying the multi-layered digital asset in combination with a character avatar, the character avatar being controlled by a user within the digital environment.

[0052] Clause 5 The method of claim 4, wherein the second NFT further includes a self-executing contract that, when executed, includes digital software code that automatically transfers an amount to an account associated with the user following the display of the multi-layer digital asset in the digital environment.

[0053] Clause 6 6. The method of claim 5, wherein the amount is defined within the digital software code of the self-executing contract.

[0054] Clause 7 7. The method of claim 6, wherein the character avatar includes a plurality of attributes, and the monetary amount is, in part, a function of at least one of the plurality of attributes.

[0055] Clause 8 The method of any of clauses 5-7, wherein the amount is a first amount, the core asset information of the first NFT further includes an identification of a creator of the primary digital asset, and the digital software code, when executed, automatically transfers a second amount to an account associated with the creator of the primary digital asset.

[0056] Clause 9 The method of any of clauses 5 to 7, wherein the amount is a first amount and the digital software code, when executed, automatically transfers a second amount to an account associated with the creator of the digital environment.

[0057] Clause 10 10. The method of any of clauses 4-9, wherein the primary digital asset is an article of apparel or footwear that is operative to be worn by the character avatar.

[0058] Clause 11 11. The method of claim 10, wherein the primary digital asset is a sports jersey.

[0059] Clause 12 12. The method of any of clauses 1-11, wherein overlaying the image from the second digital graphics file onto the primary digital asset includes completely masking a portion of the primary digital asset to change a color of the primary digital asset.

[0060] Clause 13 the second sub-asset NFT is a feature asset and the image from the second digital graphics file includes a partially transparent overlay; 13. The method of any of clauses 1-12, wherein overlaying the image from the second digital graphics file onto the primary digital asset includes overlaying the primary digital asset with the partially transparent overlay such that the primary digital asset is at least partially visible through the overlay.

[0061] Clause 14 14. The method of claim 13, wherein the partially transparent overlay includes at least one of a flame, electricity, or a dust cloud.

[0062] Clause 15 The method of any of clauses 1 to 14, wherein displaying the multi-layered digital asset includes displaying the multi-layered digital asset in combination with a character avatar, the character avatar being controlled by a user within the digital environment, the character avatar further including a plurality of character attributes that operate to affect how the character avatar behaves or performs within the digital environment, the second sub-asset NFT being a characteristic asset and including data including at least one performance attribute, and the method further includes modifying at least one of the plurality of character attributes in accordance with the at least one performance attribute of the second sub-asset NFT.

[0063] Clause 16 16. The method of claim 15, wherein modifying at least one of the plurality of character attributes decreases it as a function of time or usage of the second sub-asset NFT within the digital environment.

[0064] Clause 17 The method of any of clauses 15-16, wherein the second sub-asset NFT includes a third pointer identifying a third acquisition location of a third digital graphics file, the method further including acquiring the third digital graphics file from the third acquisition location, and displaying an image from the third digital graphics file within the digital environment.

[0065] Clause 18 18. The method of claim 17, wherein the image from the third digital graphics file includes an image of a trading card or a patent.

[0066] Clause 19 19. The method of any of clauses 1-18, further comprising receiving an indication from an external source that an event has occurred, and wherein displaying the multi-layer digital asset occurs only after receiving the indication that the event has occurred.

[0067] Clause 20 20. The method of claim 19, wherein the event is an event or occurrence that occurs outside the digital environment.

[0068] Clause 21 21. The method of claim 20, wherein the event is a real-world event or occurrence.

[0069] Clause 22 22. The method of claim 21, wherein the external source is a blockchain oracle.

[0070] Clause 23 23. The method according to any of clauses 19 to 22, wherein the event is a user crossing a geofence boundary.

[0071] Clause 24 The method described in any of clauses 1 to 23, wherein the second NFT is held in a first digital wallet or account, the method further comprising transferring or making a request to transfer the second NFT to a second digital wallet or account, adding or making a request to add instructions for the transfer of the second NFT to the data of the first NFT, and deleting the image from the multi-layer digital asset.

[0072] Clause 25 25. The method according to any of clauses 1 to 24, wherein the digital environment is an augmented reality or mixed reality environment.

Claims

1. 1. A method for dynamically modifying a multi-layer digital asset in a digital environment, comprising: obtaining data associated with a primary non-fungible token (NFT) representing the primary digital asset from a digital blockchain ledger; obtaining data related to the sub-asset NFT from the digital blockchain ledger; monitoring a location of a user; determining that the user has crossed a predefined geofence boundary; modifying the primary digital asset by incorporating visual elements from a sub-asset NFT in response to determining that the user has crossed the predefined geofence boundary; displaying the modified primary digital asset within the digital environment; A method comprising:

2. The digital environment is an augmented reality environment. The method of claim 1.

3. The digital environment is a virtual reality environment. The method of claim 1.

4. the primary digital asset is a virtual apparel item or device associated with the user or with the user's avatar in the digital environment; The method of claim 1.

5. The sub-asset NFT represents an advertising sign. The method of claim 1.

6. The sub-asset NFT represents a visual effect to be applied to the primary digital asset. The method of claim 1.

7. The visual effect includes a partially transparent overlay. The method according to claim 6.

8. The predefined geofence boundary corresponds to a real-world location. The method of claim 1.

9. the predefined geofence boundary corresponds to a virtual location within the digital environment; The method of claim 1.

10. The method further comprises: monitoring a user's position relative to said predefined geofence boundary; restoring the primary digital asset to an original state when a user exits a geofenced area beyond the predefined geofence boundary; The method of claim 1 , comprising:

11. modifying the primary digital asset includes modifying a performance characteristic of the primary digital asset within the digital environment; The method of claim 1.

12. The method further comprises: receiving verification from a blockchain oracle that the user has crossed the predefined geofence boundary; The method of claim 1.

13. the sub-asset NFT is selected from a marketplace of available sub-asset NFTs based on the location of the user; The method of claim 1.

14. 1. A method for dynamically modifying a multi-layer digital asset in a digital environment, comprising: obtaining data associated with a primary non-fungible token (NFT) representing the primary digital asset from a digital blockchain ledger; obtaining data related to a plurality of sub-asset NFTs from the digital blockchain ledger; receiving location data of a user; determining, based on the location data, that the user has crossed a predefined geofence boundary; selecting a sub-asset NFT from the plurality of sub-asset NFTs based on characteristics of the predefined geofence boundary and / or characteristics of the user; modifying the primary digital asset by incorporating visual elements from a sub-asset NFT in response to determining that the user has crossed the predefined geofence boundary; displaying the modified primary digital asset within the digital environment; A method comprising:

15. The method further comprises: receiving updated location data of the user; determining, based on the updated location data, that a user has left the predefined geofence boundary; and in response to the user determining that the user has left the predefined geofence boundary, restoring the primary digital asset to an original state; The step of selecting the sub-asset NFT comprises: analyzing metadata associated with each of the plurality of sub-asset NFTs; comparing the metadata to predefined criteria associated with the geofence boundary or the user; and selecting the sub-asset NFT based on the comparison; 15. The method of claim 14, comprising:

16. the digital environment is an augmented reality environment; and The step of displaying the modified primary digital asset includes: receiving real world image data from a device associated with the user; combining the modified primary digital asset with the real-world image data to generate augmented reality display data; and transmitting the augmented reality display data to the device associated with the user; 15. The method of claim 14, comprising:

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