System, method, and apparatus for multi-card interaction using a digital trading card platform

Abstract

An approach is provided for multi-card interaction using a trading card platform, The approach involves, for example, determining a first set of one or more first trading cards and a second set of one or more second trading cards. The approach also involves computing a first aggregate value metric based on one or more respective first value metrics of the first set, and a second aggregate value metric based on one or more respective second value metrics of the second set. The approach further involves initiating a comparison of the first aggregate value metric and the second aggregate value metric. The approach further involves presenting a user interface displaying a digital representation of the comparison comprising respective representations of the first aggregate value metric and the second aggregate value metric.

Description

SYSTEM, METHOD, AND APPARATUS FORMULTI-CARD INTERACTION USING A DIGITAL TRADING CARD PLATFORMRELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application 63 / 601,525, filed November 21, 2023, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.BACKGROUND

[0002] Traditionally, trading cards (e.g., sports trading cards or trading cards in any other domain) have been static with little engagement or interaction between the subjects (e.g., athletes) depicted in the trading cards and consumers of the trading cards. As a result, trading card providers face significant technical challenges with respect to integrating interactive technologies in the traditionally non-digital domain of trading cards.SOME EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

[0003] Therefore, there is a need for a trading card platform that offers technical solutions to providing multi -card interaction.

[0004] According to one embodiment, an apparatus comprises at least one processor, and at least one memory including computer program code for one or more computer programs, the at least one memory and the computer program code configured to, with the at least one processor, cause, at least in part, the apparatus to determine a first set of one or more first trading cards and a second set of one or more second trading cards. The apparatus is also caused to compute a first aggregate value metric based on one or more respective first value metrics of the first set, and a second aggregate value metric based on one or more respective second value metrics of the second set. The apparatus is further caused to initiate a comparison of the first aggregate value metric and the second aggregate value metric. The apparatus is further caused to present a user interface displaying a digital representation of the comparison comprising respective representations of the first aggregate value metric and the second aggregate value metric. In one embodiment, the apparatus is further caused to determine which of the first set and the second set has a higheraggregate value metric. The user interface presents a user interface element indicating which of the first set and the second set is determined to have the higher aggregate value metric.

[0005] According to another embodiment, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium, carrying one or more sequences of one or more instructions which, when executed by one or more processors, cause an apparatus to determine a first set of one or more first trading cards and a second set of one or more second trading cards. The apparatus is also caused to compute a first aggregate value metric based on one or more respective first value metrics of the first set, and a second aggregate value metric based on one or more respective second value metrics of the second set. The apparatus is further caused to initiate a comparison of the first aggregate value metric and the second aggregate value metric. The apparatus is further caused to present a user interface displaying a digital representation of the comparison comprising respective representations of the first aggregate value metric and the second aggregate value metric. In one embodiment, the apparatus is further caused to determine which of the first set and the second set has a higher aggregate value metric. The user interface presents a user interface element indicating which of the first set and the second set is determined to have the higher aggregate value metric.

[0006] According to another embodiment, a method comprises determining a first set of one or more first trading cards and a second set of one or more second trading cards. The method also comprises computing a first aggregate value metric based on one or more respective first value metrics of the first set, and a second aggregate value metric based on one or more respective second value metrics of the second set. The method further comprises initiating a comparison of the first aggregate value metric and the second aggregate value metric. The method further comprises presenting a user interface displaying a digital representation of the comparison comprising respective representations of the first aggregate value metric and the second aggregate value metric. In one embodiment, the method further comprises determining which of the first set and the second set has a higher aggregate value metric. The user interface presents a user interface element indicating which of the first set and the second set is determined to have the higher aggregate value metric.

[0007] According to another embodiment, an apparatus comprises means for determining a first set of one or more first trading cards and a second set of one or more second trading cards.The apparatus also comprises means for computing a first aggregate value metric based on one or more respective first value metrics of the first set, and a second aggregate value metric based on one or more respective second value metrics of the second set. The apparatus further comprises means for initiating a comparison of the first aggregate value metric and the second aggregate value metric. The apparatus further comprises means for presenting a user interface displaying a digital representation of the comparison comprising respective representations of the first aggregate value metric and the second aggregate value metric. In one embodiment, the apparatus further comprises determining which of the first set and the second set has a higher aggregate value metric. The user interface presents a user interface element indicating which of the first set and the second set is determined to have the higher aggregate value metric.

[0008] In addition, for various example embodiments described herein, the following is applicable: a computer program product may be provided. For example, a computer program product comprising instructions which, when the program is executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform any one or any combination of methods (or processes) disclosed.

[0009] In addition, for various example embodiments of the invention, the following is applicable: a method comprising facilitating a processing of and / or processing (1) data and / or (2) information and / or (3) at least one signal, the (1) data and / or (2) information and / or (3) at least one signal based, at least in part, on (or derived at least in part from) any one or any combination of methods (or processes) disclosed in this application as relevant to any embodiment of the invention.

[0010] For various example embodiments of the invention, the following is also applicable: a method comprising facilitating access to at least one interface configured to allow access to at least one service, the at least one service configured to perform any one or any combination of network or service provider methods (or processes) disclosed in this application.

[0011] For various example embodiments of the invention, the following is also applicable: a method comprising facilitating creating and / or facilitating modifying (1) at least one device user interface element and / or (2) at least one device user interface functionality, the (1) at least one device user interface element and / or (2) at least one device user interface functionality based, at least in part, on data and / or information resulting from one or any combination of methods or processes disclosed in this application as relevant to any embodiment of the invention, and / or atleast one signal resulting from one or any combination of methods (or processes) disclosed in this application as relevant to any embodiment of the invention.

[0012] For various example embodiments of the invention, the following is also applicable: a method comprising creating and / or modifying (1) at least one device user interface element and / or (2) at least one device user interface functionality, the (1) at least one device user interface element and / or (2) at least one device user interface functionality based at least in part on data and / or information resulting from one or any combination of methods (or processes) disclosed in this application as relevant to any embodiment of the invention, and / or at least one signal resulting from one or any combination of methods (or processes) disclosed in this application as relevant to any embodiment of the invention.

[0013] In various example embodiments, the methods (or processes) can be accomplished on the service provider side or on the mobile device side or in any shared way between service provider and mobile device with actions being performed on both sides.

[0014] For various example embodiments, the following is applicable: An apparatus comprising means for performing a method of the claims.

[0015] Still other aspects, features, and advantages of the invention are readily apparent from the following detailed description, simply by illustrating a number of particular embodiments and implementations, including the best mode contemplated for carrying out the invention. The invention is also capable of other and different embodiments, and its several details can be modified in various obvious respects, all without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, the drawings and description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature, and not as restrictive.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] The embodiments of the invention are illustrated by way of example, and not by way of limitation, in the figures of the accompanying drawings:

[0017] FIG. 1 is a diagram of a system capable of providing a digital trading card platform, according to one example embodiment;

[0018] FIGs. 2A-2C are diagrams illustrating examples of a digital representation of a trading card, according to one example embodiment;

[0019] FIG. 3 A is a flowchart of a process for presenting a digital representation of a trading card, according to one example embodiment;

[0020] FIG. 3B is a flowchart of a process for configuring a trading card platform to perform value metric calculations, according to one example embodiment;

[0021] FIG. 3C is a diagram of an example user interface for selecting attribute data types, value calculation mechanisms, and / or value calculation services, according to one example embodiment;

[0022] FIG. 4 is a flowchart of a process for providing multi-card interaction, according to one example embodiment;

[0023] FIGs. 5A-5D are diagrams of example user interfaces for providing multi-card interaction, according to one embodiment;

[0024] FIG. 6 is a time-sequence diagram that illustrates a sequence of messages and processes between system components for computing a value metric for a trading card, according to one example embodiment;

[0025] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example a digital representation of a trading card listing available services, according to one example embodiment;

[0026] FIG. 8 is a diagram of hardware that can be used to implement an example embodiment of the processes described herein;

[0027] FIG. 9 is a diagram of a chip set that can be used to implement an example embodiment of the processes described herein; and

[0028] FIG. 10 is a diagram of a terminal that can be used to implement an example embodiment of the processes described herein.DESCRIPTION OF SOME EMBODIMENTS

[0029] Examples of a system, method, and apparatus for providing a digital trading card platform for multi-card interaction are disclosed. In the following description, for the purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments of the invention. It is apparent, however, to one skilled in the art that the embodiments of the invention may be practiced without these specific details or with an equivalentarrangement. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the embodiments of the invention.

[0030] Reference in this specification to “one example embodiment,” “one embodiment,” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. The appearance of the phrase “in one embodiment” in various places in the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, nor are separate or alternative embodiments mutually exclusive of other embodiments. In addition, the embodiments described herein are provided by example, and as such, “one embodiment” can also be used synonymously as “one example embodiment.” Further, the terms “a” and “an” herein do not denote a limitation of quantity, but rather denote the presence of at least one of the referenced items. Moreover, various features are described which may be exhibited by some embodiments and not by others. Similarly, various requirements are described which may be requirements for some embodiments but not for other embodiments.

[0031] FIG. 1 is a diagram of a system 100 capable of providing a digital trading card platform, according to one example embodiment. Trading cards have been produced for different subjects including but not limited to inanimate or animate subjects, things, places, people vehicles, animals, paintings, etc. Historically trading cards have been produced mainly for high profile subjects or athletes. This is because one of the primary drivers of value of a trading card is for example the athlete’s career and popularity - i.e., the better or more popular the athlete or player, the better the value of the athlete’s trading card or separately associated merchandising or sponsorship deals for the athlete. However, recent changes in policy and laws with respect to college athletes’ being able to benefit from their name, image, and likeness (NIL) opens up the opportunity for many more in particular athletes to explore trading card and / or related sponsorship deals. For example, the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) NIL policy in part provides the following guidance:“• Individuals can engage in NIL activities that are consistent with the law of the state where the school is located. Colleges and universities are responsible for determining whether those activities are consistent with state law.• College athletes who attend a school in a state without an NIL law can engage in this type of activity without violating NCAA rules related to name, image, and likeness.• Individuals can use a professional services provider for NIL activities.• Student-athletes should report NIL activities consistent with state law or school and conference requirements to their school.”

[0032] Thus, with this change in NIL policy many more athletes (e.g., NCAA athletes) are eligible to benefit from NIL likeness opportunities including trading card deals and / or related sponsorships. However, because these athletes are now eligible for NIL deals does not mean the opportunities are also easier to get. For example, lesser known athletes may still find it difficult to discover available NIL sponsorships and how to obtain them. Conversely, potential sponsors (e.g., corporations) may find it difficult to discover what athletes are available for them to sponsor. In either case, keeping track of the NIL deals and sponsorship for reporting requirements can also be difficult.

[0033] In addition, potential consumers who want to buy, sell, and / or trade these cards may find it difficult to determine or estimate the values of trading cards, particularly as the variety and number of subjects expands. Traditionally, consumers would have to look to the marketplace to see how much comparable cards have previously sold or traded for. But this traditional process is fraught with uncertainty.

[0034] Accordingly, a service provider who seeks to provide technical solutions to making trading card values, related sponsorships, or NIL opportunities more easily accessible to athletes, consumers, and / or other stakeholders face significant technical challenges. There are also technical challenges with the scenario of making athletes or other subjects more easily accessible to potential sponsors. By way of example, these technical challenges include but are not limited to providing a unique user experience and interactive platform that comprehensively addresses the problems and issues described above.

[0035] In one embodiment, to address these technical challenges, the system 100 of FIG. 1 introduces a trading card platform 101 with the technical and computing capabilities to provide a gamification of the user experience associated with calculating a dynamic value metric for the trading card and presenting the dynamic value metric in a digital representation of the trading card. In one embodiment, the system 100 provides a user interface 115 and associated computingsystems (e.g., trading card platform 101) for providing a multi-card interaction to facilitate a head- to-head matchup tournament or challenge between different sets (e g., sets 106a and 106b) of trading cards 107 (e.g, via their respective digital representations 111 in the user interface 115). The head-to-head matchup, for instance, is mediated via dynamic value metrics (e.g., value metric data 121) computed for the respective trading cards 107. In other words, multi-card interaction between different sets 106a- 106b of the trading cards 107 can be based on “cards versus cards” based on their respective value metric data 121.

[0036] In one embodiment, the multi-card interaction can be implemented as part of an interactive game using the trading card platform 101 between multiple parties. In this way, the trading card platform 101 (e.g., alone or in combination with user equipment (UE) devices 119 executing applications 117, or other equivalent component of the system 100) can facilitate execution of electronic processes to support the dynamic value metric calculation and comparison for the platform-supported game or interaction. For example, the trading card platform 101 can be used to adjust a lineup of trading cards 107 (e.g., sets 106a-106b) as the game is played. Users (e.g., players of the game) can use the trading card platform 101 to purchase more trading cards 107 as the game is played. In one embodiment, the dynamic pricing or dynamic value metric data 121 can be finalized at any point during the interaction or game (e.g., until a particular round is played, instantaneously or update of respective sets 106 or lineups, on demand, according to a schedule, at a designated frequency, etc.).

[0037] In yet another embodiment, the trading card platform 101 can be used to support additional interaction / game rules, conditions, criteria, etc. For example, one but not exclusive rule can be configured to have the trading card platform 101 enforce that a player / user cannot use trading cards 107 again in the tournament / game once they have been played in a previous round or turn. In one embodiment, the final slot or round of the game / multi-card interaction can be reserved for a bonus round. This bonus round, for instance, can be reserved for playing against an advertiser, sponsor, guest player, etc. The trading card platform 101 can be configured to track and enable users to use whatever trading cards 107 each respective player has purchased, redeemed, won, etc. with any card based on its dynamic value metric data 121. The dynamic value metric can be based on any attribute or value component including but not limited to dynamicpricing, number of sponsors, number of advertisers, performance statistics (e.g., sports performance normalized to enable comparison between different sports, statistics, etc.).

[0038] In one embodiment, the trading card platform 101 determines the player / user who has the most total value (e.g., based on value metric data 1121) of all the cards wins. In multi-round interactions / games or tournament-style games, the player / user who wins in one round plays the next opponent of the game / interaction in the next round. In one embodiment, the trading card platform 101 enables a player / user to see previously played trading cards 107 in the user interface 115. For example, the user interface 115 can present or otherwise enable viewing the actual last card(s) that were played. In one embodiment, the trading card platform 101 interfaces with one or more external services (e.g., services platform 129, one or more services 131 of the services platform 129, etc.) to augment functions of the interaction game. For example, digital representations 111 of the trading cards 107 can be augmented with social media services so that a player / user and the community (e.g., social networking group) can talk with each other about trading cards 107, plays of the trading cards 107 during a round, the game, dynamic values of the trading cards 107, etc. Functions such as but not limited to like, comment, save, etc. can also be supported by the trading card platform 107 as part of the game / interaction.

[0039] In addition to the multi-card interaction functions, the trading card platform 101 enables one or more subjects / athletes (e.g., listed in a database of subject data 103) to be matched with one or more artists (e.g., represented in a database of artist data 105) to create one or more trading cards 107 (e.g., physical and / or digital trading cards) which serve as digital gateways to sponsorship (e.g., NIL) opportunities. The trading card platform 101 also has the capability to determine a selection of attribute datatypes (e.g., sponsorship datatypes, subject related datatypes, artist related data types, trading card related data types, etc.) for calculating a dynamic value metric for the trading card and presenting the dynamic value metric in a digital representation of the trading card (e.g., as part of the game / multi-card interaction). In one embodiment, the trading card platform 101 further introduces an electronic version of the trading cards 107 that is a electronic device with a transparent display that enables unique interactions among multiple trading card devices to provide unique content experiences.

[0040] It is noted that as used herein, the term “subject” refers to any person, object, thing, place, etc. that can be depicted on a card including but not limited to an athlete. Accordingly,although the various embodiments described herein may refer to an athlete as one example of a subject, it is contemplated wherever the description refers to athlete, the description can also apply to any subject in general. Other examples of a subject include but are not limited to collectible objects (e.g., cars), pets, people in different professions, etc. The attributes associated with the subject (e.g., used to compute a value metric for the card) can also vary with the subject. For example, athletes and cars can include performance statistics, while animals may have attributes indicating breed, age, etc.

[0041] In one embodiment, the trading cards 107 are created with a card identifier that is encoded as a machine readable code (e.g., bar code, quick response (QR) code, near field communication (NFC), Bluetooth beacon, etc.). The machine readable code can be read using a code reader 109 (e.g., a barcode reader, etc.). The trading card platform 101 then uses the card identifier to associate a trading card 107 with its corresponding digital representation 111 (e.g., stored in a database of trading card data 113). The digital representation I l l is displayable in a user interface 115 generated by an application 117 (e.g., a client application to the trading card platform 101) executing on a user equipment (UE) device 119 (e.g., smartphone, tablet, computer, wearable device, etc ).

[0042] In one embodiment, the trading card platform 101 also uses the card identifier determined from a trading card 107 to query for one or more parameters or attributes (e.g., promotional items provide free or at a discount with the trading card 107, attributes of the subject of the trading card 107, attributes of an artist that created the artwork for the trading card 107) that can be used to compute the value metric data 121 for the trading card 107. The value metric data 121, for instance, represents a computed value of the trading card 107 and can be expressed using any metric such as but not limited to a monetary value, value ranges (e.g., low, medium, high, etc.), and / or any other equivalent scale or metric. In one embodiment, the value metric can be based on any attribute queried from any of the data sources available to the trading card platform 101 including but not limited to the subject data 103 (e.g., storing one or more attributes of the subject depicted on the trading card 107 - such as performance statistics, affiliations, etc.), artist data 105 (e.g., storing one or more attributes of the artist that created the artwork for the trading card 107), sponsorship data 123 (e.g., storing data records of sponsorships associated with the trading card 107 and / or subject), services data 125 (e.g., storing data indicated services includedwith or otherwise provided by the trading card 107), trading card data 113 (e.g., storing data associated with the digital representation 111 of the trading card 107), etc. The data records in the various embodiments of the data sources of the system 100 are collectively referred to herein as attribute data records.

[0043] For example, the trading card platform 101 can query sponsorship data 123 for any sponsorship data records that indicate the availability of redeemable items or services associated with the trading card 107. For example, one or more sponsors may have agreed to provide promotional items that are free or provided at a discount to the owner of the trading card 107. The value of these promotional items can be at least one parameter in computing the value metric of the corresponding trading card 107.

[0044] Similarly, in one embodiment, the trading card 107 may include one or more services (e.g., a call, text, social media post, video, meet and greet, autograph, etc. with the subject of the trading card 107) that are to be provided to the owner of the trading card 107. The data records indicating these services can be queried from the services data 125 using the card identifier. In one embodiment, the value metric data 121 of the trading card 107 can be further computed based on the availability of the services. By way of example, the services can be performed or verified to have been performed over communication network 127 via a services platform 129 comprising one or more services 131a-131n (collectively referred to as services 131) such as social media services, shopping services, and / or the like. For example, if a service involves the subject posting a social media message, verification of the posting of the message on a social media service (e.g., service 131) can be used to confirm that the service associated with the trading card 107 has been performed.

[0045] In one embodiment, the trading card 107 may include access to content (e.g., video content, audio content, etc.). One example of the content includes promotional videos of the subject. Other examples, include programming content, broadcasting content, streaming content, etc. provided by one or more content providers 133 (e.g., over communication network 127). The content provided by the one or more content providers 133 can include paid content, subscriptions, content restricted to owners of the trading card 107, pay-per-view content, etc. that are provided free or at a discounted rate. In this case, the card identifier or any other authentication mechanism can be used to determine access rights to the content. In one embodiment, the content can bestreamed and displayed in the user interface 115 as part of the digital representation 111 of the trading card 107. For example, the content can be rendered in UI element within the rendered digital representation 111. In one embodiment, the value metric data 121 associated with the trading card 107 can be computed further based on the availability of the content from the content providers 133.

[0046] In one embodiment, a value metric data 121 of a trading card 107 can also be based on attributes of the subject and / or the artist associated with the trading card 107. For example, the trading card platform 101 can query for subject data 103 indicating one or more attributes of the subject (e.g., popularity, career, etc ). In use cases where the subject is an athlete, the subject data 103 can include but is not limited to sports statistics, affiliated teams / organizations, conference, division, playing position, etc. Similarly, the trading card platform 101 can query for artist data 105 indicating one or more attributes of the artist responsible for the artwork or visual design of the trading card 107. Example of artist attributes include but is not limited to popularity, experience, artistic portfolio, style, previously sold artwork, etc. The trading card platform 101 can then compute the value metric data 121 for the trading card 107 further based on the attributes of the associated subject and / or artist.

[0047] In yet another embodiment, the value metric data 121 can also be based on ownership of a suite or combination of trading cards 107 (e.g., in sets 106a- 106b). For example, collecting a designated set of trading cards 107 (e.g., trading cards 107 from all members of a team) as a single collection can create a bonus value over the individual value metrics of each trading card 107 in the collection. It is contemplated that an individual trading card 107 can be designated as a part of any number of suites or collections. For example, a trading card 107 can be part of a team suite, a sport suite, a suite of all cards depicting the same subject, a suite of cards for the same artist, etc. The suite or combination of trading cards 107, for instance, can be designated and stored in the trading card data 113.

[0048] In one embodiment, the value metric data 121, subject data 103, artist data 105, trading card data 113, sponsorship data 123, services data 125, and / or content from content providers 133 associated with the trading card 107 can be aggregated and presented in the digital representation 111 of the trading card 107 as shown in the examples of FIGs. 2A-2C. In one embodiment, the system 100 enables the trading card platform 101 to determine a selection of the attributes (e.g.,subject, artist, trading card, sponsorship, services, content, etc. attributes) to be used for configuring the trading card platform 101 to compute the value metric data 121. In addition or alternatively, the system 100 may include different value calculation mechanisms 135 (e.g., different calculations, value models, parameters, etc.) and / or value calculation services 137 (e.g., external third party valuation services) that can be selected and configured to enable to the trading platform 101 to compute the value metric 121. The selection can further specify multiple mechanisms 135 and / or services 137 and optionally their relative weights for computing the output value metric 121.

[0049] FIGs. 2A-2C are diagrams illustrating examples of a digital representation 11 1 of a trading card 107, according to one example embodiment. In the example of FIG. 2A, a first page of the digital representation I l l is illustrated. The digital representation 111 can be rendered in a user interface (UI) 115 of a user equipment (UE) device 119 via an application 117. The digital representation 111 includes, for instance:• a UI element 201 displaying information on the subject such the subject’s name (e.g., athlete “John Doe”) and affiliated school (e.g., “State Univ”) (e.g., queried from subject data 103);• a UI element 203 displaying the number of associated promotional items (e.g., queried from the sponsorship data 123) and the value metric data 121 (e.g., computed for the trading card 107 according to the various embodiments described herein);• a UI element 205 displaying a service (e.g., a personal call from the subject) that is included with the trading card 107 (e.g., queried from the services data 125);• a UI element 207 displaying information on the artist responsible for the artwork or visual design of the trading card 107 (e.g., quired from the artist data 105);• a UI element 209 displaying the artwork or visual design created by the artist specified in UI element 207 (e.g., queried from the trading card data 113 and / or artist data 105);• a UI element 211 displaying the promotional items (e.g., provided by one or more sponsors) that are included with the trading card 107 and controls for redeeming the items (e.g., queried from the sponsorship data 123);• a UI element 213 linking to the sports statistics of the subject (e.g., queried from the subject data 103 and / or one or more third party statistics providers such as a service 131 of the services platform 129);• a UI element 215 displaying a barcode (or equivalent machine readable code) that encodes a card identifier to link the digital representation 111 to the physical and / or digital trading card 107 (e.g., queried from the trading card data 113); and• a UI element 217 displaying a navigation control element to display a subsequent view of the card, thereby enabling the digital representation 111 to comprise multiple pages within a single digital representation 111 depending on the trading card design or available card data (e.g., queried from the trading card data 113).

[0050] FIG. 2B illustrates an example second page of the digital representation 111 of FIG. 2A. In this example, in addition to common UI elements shared with the first page of the digital representation 111 shown in FIG. 2A, the second page of the digital representation 111 includes, for instance:• a UI element 221 for displaying a promotional video (or other media) related to the subject and providing media controls for controlling playback of the content from the UI element 221 itself (e.g., queried from the subject data 103 and / or content providers 133); and• a UI element 223 for displaying content available from one or more content providers 133 and providing media controls for controlling playback of the content from the UI element 223 itself (e.g., as a sponsored placement of the content in the digital representation 111 of the trading card 107 with examples including but not limited to broadcast programming, streaming services, video on demand services, pay-per-view services, and / or the like) (e.g., queried from the sponsorship data 123 and / or content providers 133).

[0051] FIG. 2C illustrates an example use of an interactive element of the digital representation 111 as shown in FIG. 2A, according to one example embodiment. In this example, a consumer of the trading card 107 interacts with the digital representation to redeem promotional item 2 listed UI element 211. The consumer, for instance, clicks on the redeem option depicted under the representation of promotion item 2 to initiate the redemption. One example embodiment of theredemption process is described in further detail with respect to FIG. 5 below. On confirmation of the redemption of the requested item (e.g., promotional item 2), UI element 211 of the digital representation 111 can be updated to visually indicate that the listed item 2 has been redeemed. In one embodiment, the visual indication can include but is not limited to the changing the rendered appearance of the item 2 (e.g., by rendering item 2 with a dashed line versus a solid line as shown). In addition, the trading card platform 101 can update the corresponding value metric 121 and sponsorship data 123 to indicate the redemption and render the updated information in UI element 203. For example, as shown, UI element 203 has been updated to indicate a “5 Items” versus the original “6 Items” remaining, and a new value metric from of “$2,820” versus the original “$2,980.”

[0052] It is noted that the examples of a digital representation 111 of a trading card 107 described with respect to the FIGs. 2A-2C are provided by way of illustration and not as limitations. It is contemplated that any one or more of the illustrated UI elements may combined, eliminated, or rendered in any arrangement or configuration.

[0053] In one embodiment, one or more of the components of the system 100 may be implemented as a cloud-based service, local service, native application, or combination thereof. The functions of the system 100 and its components are discussed with respect to figures below.

[0054] FIG. 3A is a flowchart of a process 300 for presenting a digital representation of a trading card 107, according to one example embodiment. In various example embodiments, the trading card platform 101 alone or in combination with the application 117 may perform one or more portions of a process 300 and may be implemented in / by various means, for instance, a chip set including a processor and a memory as shown in FIG. 9 or in a circuitry, hardware, firmware, software, or in any combination thereof. In one example embodiment, the circuitry includes but is not limited to processing circuitry, code reading circuitry, and output circuitry. As such, the system 100, trading card platform 101, application 117, and / or any associated apparatus, device, circuitry, system, computer program product, and / or non-transitory computer readable medium can provide means for accomplishing various parts of the process 300, as well as means for accomplishing embodiments of other processes described herein. Although the process 300 is illustrated and described as a sequence of steps, it is contemplated that various embodiments ofthe process 300 may be performed in any order or combination and need not include all of the illustrated steps.

[0055] In one embodiment, the process 300 assumes that a trading card 107 configured with a machine readable code has been created to include the characteristics and elements of a trading card 107 discussed with respect to the various embodiments described herein. For example, the trading card 107 can depict or otherwise include, at a minimum, a barcode or other machine readable code (e.g., QR code, NFC, etc.). The machine readable code, for instance, encodes a card identifier that can be processed by the trading card platform 101. In addition to the machine readable code, the trading card 107 can include all or a portion of the of the elements described with respect to embodiments the digital representation 111 described with respect to FIGs. 2A-2C.

[0056] In one embodiment, the trading card 107 can be a physical and or digital / electronic trading card that, for instance, can be linked or otherwise registered to a corresponding digital representation 111 of the trading card 107 stored by the trading card platform 101 (e g., in trading card data 113 or equivalent database). One example of digital trading card 107 includes but is not limited to a non-fungible token (NFT) that tracks the ownership and any related sponsorship / promotional contracts as smart contracts on a blockchain (e.g., maintained via the Ethereum network or other equivalent blockchain or cryptocurrency network). In one embodiment, the visual design of the digital trading card 107 can mirror all or a portion of the digital representation 111. In some embodiments, the digital representation 111 can be the digital or electronic version of the trading card 107.

[0057] Then, in step 301, a code reader 109 can read or be configured to read the machine readable code from the trading card 107 to determine a card identifier. In one embodiment, the code reader can be a standalone code reader 109 (e.g., bar code reading apparatus or equivalent) or a component of the UE 119 (e.g., a camera sensor capable of scanning, NFC module, Bluetooth module, etc.). The card identifier can be any identifier that can be used to match the trading card 107 to a respective digital representation 111. In one embodiment, the card identifier can be unique to individual trading cards 107, a series of trading cards 107 (e.g., associated with a team, organization, sport, and / or any other category of cards), trading cards 107 specific to subject, trading cards 107 specific to an artist, trading cards 107 specific to an artistic style, etc.

[0058] In step 303, an apparatus (e.g., the trading card platform 101, application 117, and / or any associated device, system, or platform) queries or is configured to query for one or more attribute data records (e.g., any of the subject data 103, artist data 105, trading card data 113, sponsorship data 123, service data 123, content from content providers 133, etc.) associated with the trading card 107 based on the card identifier. As an example, sponsorship data 123 are data records indicating any sponsorship deals that are associated with the trading card 107 or the subject of the trading card 107 including but not limited to promotional items provided by corporations or other sponsors to an owner or bearer of the trading card 107. Promotional items include but are not limited to items that are provided for free or at a discount.

[0059] With respect to sponsorship data 123, in optional step 305, the one or more sponsorship data records are associated with one or more redeemable items, one or more redeemable services, or a combination thereof. In this case, the apparatus is further configured to track a redemption of the one or more redeemable items, the one or more redeemable services, or a combination thereof. Example embodiments of this tracking and redemption process is described in more detail with respect to FIG. 5 below. In one embodiment, the value metric 121 associated with trading card 107 can vary as the promotional items associated with the trading card 107 are redeemed. In other embodiments, new or equivalent promotional items can be used to replenish the trading card 107 as one owner redeems those items so that the same, or subsequent owners can also benefit from the same or equivalent promotional items. In this way, the value metric 121 of a trading card 107 can remain stable between different owners (e.g., when the card is sold or traded) regardless of whether one or more associated promotional items have been redeemed.

[0060] In step 307, the apparatus is further configured to compute a value metric 121 based, at least in part, on the one or more attribute data records (e.g., sponsorship data 123 and / or any of attributes of the data sources of the system 100). In one embodiment, the value metric 121 is an indicator of or otherwise represents a value of the card to an owner or bearer of the trading card 107 based on the attributes (e.g., sponsorships, subject attributes, artist attributes, etc.) associated with the trading card 107 (e.g., sponsorships associated with the subject / athlete as well as the artist responsible for the artwork or visual design depicted in the trading card 107 and / or its digital representation 111.

[0061] As discussed above, in one embodiment, the apparatus is further configured to update the value metric 121 based on changes to the attributes (e.g., the redemption of the one or more redeemable items, the one or more redeemable services, or a combination thereof) associated with the trading card 107. In one embodiment, the one or more redeemable services includes a subject of the trading card 107 performing a task (e.g., autograph, text, call, voice message, social post, create a video, live video, take a picture, meet and greet, and / or the like). In cases where a service is to be performed via a service 131 (e.g., social media service or network) of a services platform 129 (e.g., a social post on a social media service), the apparatus is further configured to query the social media platform (e.g., services platform 129 and / or services 131) to determine a completion of the task. Then, the redemption is tracked based on the completion of the task. For example, the determining of the completion of the task comprises querying social media platform (e.g., via an application programming interface (API) or equivalent) for a social media post by the subject with the requested content (e.g., by querying and identifying key words, dates, etc. in the social media post, or performing a machine learning-based analysis of the post to determine whether the request message parameters are present).

[0062] In one embodiment, the trading card 107 depicts a subject (e g., an athlete). Then, the apparatus is further configured to query for one or more subject attribute data records (e.g., subject data 103) indicating one or more attributes of the subject. The trading card platform 101 can then compute the value metric 121 further based on the one or more subject attribute data records. In an example use case in which the subject is an athlete, the one or more attributes of the subject can include one or more sports statistics, one or more sports organization affiliations, or a combination thereof. The value metric 121 can then be based on the subject and / or sports attributes (e.g., increasing the value metric 121 based on a popularity of the subject, the subject’s sport, the subject’s performance statistics, etc.).

[0063] In one embodiment, the trading card 107 is associated with an artist that creates or has created artwork or a visual design of the trading card 107. In this embodiment, the apparatus is further configured to query for one or more artist attribute data records (e.g., artist data 105) indicating one or more attributes of the artist. The apparatus is then configured to compute the value metric 121 further based on the one or more artist attribute data records. For example, similar to the subject-based changes to the value metric 121, the value metric 121 can be based onthe artist and the artist’s associated attributes (e.g., increasing the value metric 121 based on a popularity of the artist, the artist’s work, the artist’s style, the artist’s organizational / school affiliations, etc.).

[0064] Example processes for determining the value metric based on, for instance, the sponsorship data 123, services data 125, subject data 103, artist data 105, content available from content providers 133, or a combination thereof is discussed in more detail with respect to FIG. 4 below.

[0065] In step 309, an application (e.g., application 117 alone or in combination with the trading card platform 101) presents or is otherwise configured to present a user interface 1 15 displaying, at least in part, a digital representation 111 of the trading card 107, the one or more sponsorship data records, the value metric 121, or a combination thereof. Examples of the digital representation 111 are discussed in the various embodiments of the FIGs. 2A-2C above. In other words, an intrinsic value of the trading card 107 is computed based, at least in part, on the value of the promotional or sponsorship items included with the card and then presented in the user interface 115 comprising the digital representation 111. As used herein, the term “intrinsic value” is the value of the trading card 107 based on the promotional items included with the trading card 107. In various embodiments, this intrinsic value (e.g., the value metric 121) can be further modified based on the services data 125, subject data 103, artist data 105, content included with the trading card 107 from content providers 133, or a combination thereof.

[0066] In one embodiment, the value metric 121 is dynamic. Thus, the trading card platform 101 and / or application 117 can monitor for changes in any of the underlying data sources used to compute the value metric 121 (e.g., sponsorship data 123, services data 125, subject data 103, artist data 105, content available from content providers 133, or a combination thereof) and updates the value metric 121 accordingly. The application is then further configured to display the updated value metric in the user interface 115 as changes in value occur. In some embodiments, alerts based on changes to the metric can be set. For example, a consumer can set an alert to indicate when the value metric 121 for a given card increases or decreases by more than a threshold value, or reaches a predetermined target value, and / or the like.

[0067] FIG. 3B is a flowchart of a process 320 for configuring a trading card platform 101 to perform value metric calculations, according to one example embodiment. In various exampleembodiments, the trading card platform 101 alone or in combination with the application 117 may perform one or more portions of a process 320 and may be implemented in / by various means, for instance, a chip set including a processor and a memory as shown in FIG. 9 or in a circuitry, hardware, firmware, software, or in any combination thereof. In one example embodiment, the circuitry includes but is not limited to processing circuitry, code reading circuitry, and output circuitry. As such, the system 100, trading card platform 101, application 117, and / or any associated apparatus, device, circuitry, system, computer program product, and / or non-transitory computer readable medium can provide means for accomplishing various parts of the process 320, as well as means for accomplishing embodiments of other processes described herein. Although the process 320 is illustrated and described as a sequence of steps, it is contemplated that various embodiments of the process 320 may be performed in any order or combination and need not include all of the illustrated steps.

[0068] In one embodiment, the process 320 is performed as an initialization or configuration of the trading card platform 101 to determine or otherwise specify how the system 100 is to compute the dynamic value metric 121.

[0069] In step 321, the trading card platform 101 or equivalent apparatus determines a selection of one or more attribute data types associated with a trading card (e.g., trading card 107). For example, an attribute data type can be used to describe or quantify an object or entity. In this case, the object or entity is a trading card 107 and its related attributes. More generally, attribute data type is a general category of data that describes different features, characteristics, etc. of the trading card 107. Examples of attributes are described in various parts of the instant specification and can include but is not limited to the subject of the trading card 107 (e.g., an athlete, the athlete’s performance statistics, organizational affiliations, etc.), an artist associated with the trading card 107 (e.g., name of artist, artistic style, popularity, etc.). In one embodiment, the one or more data attribute types include one or more sponsorship data types (e.g., one or more categories of sponsorships associated with the trading card 107 such as but not limited to types of promotional items / services included with the card, duration of promotions, companies associated with the sponsorship, terms / conditions of the sponsorships, number of items / services, etc ).

[0070] In step 323, the trading card platform 101 or equivalent apparatus configures the apparatus to compute a value metric 121 for the trading card 107 based on the selection of the oneor more attribute data types. In one embodiment, configuring refers to programming and / or adjusting the parameters, inputs, etc. of the trading card platform 101 to use the selection of attribute data types to compute the value metric 101. For instance, based on the selection of attribute datatypes, the trading card platform 101 may designate corresponding databases or other data sources (e.g., subject data 103, artist data 105, trading card data 113, sponsorship data 123, services data 125, and / or the like) to be available (e.g., by configuring connectivity, application programming interfaces, libraries, etc.).

[0071] In one embodiment, the trading card platform 101 or equivalent apparatus is further caused to receive an input specifying a value calculation mechanism 135, a value calculation service 137, or a combination thereof for computing the value metric, and wherein is the apparatus is further configured to compute the value metric 121 based on the value calculation mechanism 135, the value calculation service 137, or the combination thereof. By way of example, a value calculation mechanism 135 can include modules (e.g., software, hardware, firmware, and / or circuitry) configured with different types of models for calculating the value metric 121. The modules, for instance, can be based on designated equations or heuristics / rules for computing value metrics 121. The heuristics or rules may define different relationships (e.g., linear, quadratic, exponential, etc.) and / or weights between different attribute parameters to compute the value metric 121. In addition or alternatively, the mechanisms 135 can include but are not limited to trained machine learning models (e.g., using the designated attribute data types as input) or other equivalent data models for predicting / computing the value metrics 121.

[0072] In other embodiments, the trading card platform 101 can be configured to use value calculation services 137 alone or in combination with the selected value calculation mechanisms 135 to compute the value metric 121. A value calculation service 137, for instance, is an internal or external service to the trading card platform 101 that computes the value metric 121 for the trading card platform 101. The value calculation service 137 can communicate or otherwise interface with the trading card platform 101 to receive value metric calculation requests (e.g., specifying selected attributes and / or parameters) from the trading card platform 101 and then return the request calculation to the trading card platform 101 (e.g., via an application programming interface, transmission, push mechanism, etc.).

[0073] It is contemplated any extensible value mechanism 135 and / or service 137 capable of communication or interfacing with the with trading card platform 101 may be used according to the various embodiments described herein.

[0074] In step 325, after configuration, the trading card platform 101 or equivalent apparatus can then proceed to the process 300 of FIG. 3A. For example, based on using a code reader to read the card identifier from the machine readable code, query for one or more attribute data records corresponding to the selection of the one or more attribute data types based on the card identifier. By way of example, data records refer to the actual data associated with the trading card 107 that fall within the data categories identified by or corresponding to the data attribute types. The trading card platform 101 or equivalent then computes the value metric based on the one or more attribute data records. Finally, the trading card platform 101 or equivalent apparatus presents or causes another component of the system 100 (e.g., application 117) to present a user interface displaying a representation of the trading card comprising a user interface element depicting the value metric. As noted, additional details of these steps are discussed with respect to FIG. 3A above and the figures below.

[0075] FIG. 3C is a diagram of an example user interface (UI) 341 for selecting attribute data types, value calculation mechanisms, and / or value calculation services, according to one example embodiment. As described in step 321 of the process 320 above, the trading card platform 101 may determine a selection of attribute data types, value calculation mechanisms 135, and / or value calculation services 137 to configure the trading card platform 101. In one embodiment, determination can be made by user input via the value metric calculation configuration UI 341 as shown in FIG. 3C. The UI 341, for instance, includes a user interface element presenting one or more attribute data types 343a-343c (also collectively referred to as attribute data types 343) to be used for the value metric calculation. The user interface also has inputs for specifying respective weights 345 for the selected data attribute types 343. Similarly, the user interface element presents for selecting one or more sponsorship data types 347a-347c (also collectively referred to as sponsorship data types 347) along with their respective weights 349. A more detailed discussion of the equations incorporating the attributes and / or their respective weights is provided further below.

[0076] In one embodiment, the UI 341 further include a user interface element for selecting one or more value calculation mechanisms 135 for configuring the trading card platform 101 according to the various embodiment described herein. As shown, the user interface element can be used to select one or more heuristics 35 la-35 lb and / or one or more machine learning (ML) models 353a-353b along with their respective weights 355 for computing the value metric 121. In yet another embodiment, the UI 341 also includes a user interface element for selecting one or more value calculation services 137 from among one or more services 357a-357b along with their respective weights 359 for computing the value metric 121.

[0077] It is noted that user input via the UI 341 is provided as one but not exclusive example of determining a selection of one or more attribute data types, value calculation mechanisms 135, and / or value calculation services 137. It is contemplated that the trading card platform 101 can use any process for making this determination include both manual and / or automated processes.

[0078] FIG. 4 is a flowchart of a process for providing multi-card interaction, according to one example embodiment. In various example embodiments, the trading card platform 101 alone or in combination with the application 117 may perform one or more portions of a process 400 and may be implemented in / by various means, for instance, a chip set including a processor and a memory as shown in FIG. 9 or in a circuitry, hardware, firmware, software, or in any combination thereof. In one example embodiment, the circuitry includes but is not limited to processing circuitry, code reading circuitry, and output circuitry. As such, the system 100, trading card platform 101, application 117, and / or any associated apparatus, device, circuitry, system, computer program product, and / or non-transitory computer readable medium can provide means for accomplishing various parts of the process 400, as well as means for accomplishing embodiments of other processes described herein. Although the process 400 is illustrated and described as a sequence of steps, it is contemplated that various embodiments of the process 400 may be performed in any order or combination and need not include all of the illustrated steps.

[0079] In step 401, the trading card platform 101 determines a first set of one or more first trading cards and a second set of one or more second trading cards. In one embodiment, the one or more first trading cards and the one or more second trading cards are digital trading cards. By way of example, the digital trading cards of the first set and the second set are specified via an interaction with the user interface.

[0080] For example, as shown examples 501, 511, 521, and 531 respectively in FIGs. 5A-5D, the user interface for selecting two sets of digital trading cards is designed to be intuitive and visually engaging, ensuring a user-friendly experience. Upon entering the platform, users are welcomed by a clean and organized homepage, featuring graphics and icons representing available card sets. A navigation bar at the top allows easy access to different sections, such as browsing sets, managing collections, and trading. In the "Browse Sets" section, users can explore various card sets with thumbnails and relevant information. A search bar and filters facilitate quick and precise set discovery based on specific criteria. Clicking on a set reveals a detailed page with information about the set, including the number of cards, special features, and promotions. Users can preview individual cards, zooming in for a closer look. To select sets, users simply click on a "Select" button, with chosen sets visually indicated. A selection panel provides an overview, allowing users to review, modify, or finalize their choices. The interface seamlessly integrates with user accounts, ensuring selections are saved for future reference. A confirmation page summarizes choices before users complete the selection process. The interface is designed to be mobile- responsive and includes additional user interface elements such as but not limited to tooltips, onscreen prompts, and a help section for guidance, providing a comprehensive and enjoyable experience for users engaging with digital trading cards and related multi -card interactions.

[0081] In step 403, the trading card platform 101 computes a first aggregate value metric based on one or more respective first value metrics of the first set, and a second aggregate value metric based on one or more respective second value metrics of the second set. In one embodiment, the one or more respective first value metrics and the one or more respective second value metrics are computed using a trained machine learning model. As previously discussed, the trained machine learning model has model parameters adjusted to make an accurate prediction of the first aggregate value metric and the second aggregate value metric to a target accuracy threshold. In one embodiment, the first aggregate value metric, the second aggregate value metric are based, at least in part, on performance statistics data associated with respective subjects of the one or more first trading cards and the one or more second trading cards.

[0082] In one embodiment, using the trained machine learning model comprises computing one or more input features from attribute data associated with the first set and the second set. The trading card platform 101 then feeds the one or more input features to the trained machine learningmodel. By way of example, the first aggregate value metric and the second aggregate value metric are dynamic value metrics that are updated based on monitoring the attribute data using a processor to determine that one or more changes to the attribute data have occurred. Example of the changes include adding, deleting, modifying, etc. one or more trading cards of the first set and / or second set. In another example, the attribute data includes one or more sponsorship data records. In this case, the one or more changes include redeeming one or more promotions associated with the one or more sponsorship data records.

[0083] For example, the dynamic value metrics of two digital trading card sets involves the computation of their values based on various attributes, including but not limited to card rarity, historical significance, and any digital sponsorships linked to the cards. A machine learning model, trained on historical sponsorships, sales data, and market trends specific to digital trading cards, can predict the value of individual cards within each set. Factors like card condition, player performance, and the scarcity of particular digital cards are considered. Subsequently, a digital trading card platform facilitates a direct comparison between the two sets, offering users a quantitative assessment of their relative values. For example, if digital trading card Set A features cards linked to exclusive in-app events and partnerships, while Set B showcases renowned players and limited edition digital cards, the machine learning model assigns values to each digital card, and the platform provides a comprehensive comparative analysis, empowering users / players to compete and interact based on their digital card investments.

[0084] Thus, in step 405, the trading card platform 101 initiates a comparison of the first aggregate value metric and the second aggregate value metric. For example, the trading card platform 101 determines which of the first set and the set set has a higher aggregate value metric. The user interface, for instance, presents a user interface element indicating which of the first set and the second set is determined to have the higher aggregate value metric.

[0085] For example, on a mobile device (e.g., UE 119 or other client terminal), the trading card platform can present the comparison of two digital trading card sets through a user-friendly interface. The interface could then display a side-by-side comparison, presenting key metrics such as overall set value, average card value, and a breakdown of influential attributes affecting the digital card values. Visual elements like charts or graphs might illustrate the comparative data, allowing users to quickly grasp the differences. Users may also be able to customize thecomparison parameters, focusing on specific attributes or card types that matter most to them. Additionally, the interface could provide tooltips or explanations to help users interpret the presented data. This mobile-friendly design ensures that collectors and enthusiasts can easily access and navigate the comparison feature, empowering them to engage in multi-card interactions (e g., playing a trading card game).

[0086] In a tournament or match format on a trading card platform, the user interface is designed to dynamically showcase the relative values of competing sets in each round. As users progress through the tournament, they are presented with an interactive interface that displays essential information about their opponent's card set and their own. Each set's overall value and key metrics, such as card rarity, player performance, and any sponsorships, are dynamically calculated and prominently featured. User interface elements, such as color-coded indicators, graphs, or numerical values, clearly denote which set has a higher overall value in real-time. This allows participants to make strategic decisions based on the comparative strengths of their card sets during each round. The interface is intuitive, providing a comprehensive visual representation of the dynamic value metrics, ensuring that users can quickly assess and respond to the shifting landscape of the competition. This real-time presentation of trading card values enhances the competitive experience, allowing users to engage actively and strategically in the tournament or match format.

[0087] The user interface of the trading card platform offers a seamless experience for players to explore individual cards within a set. Users can easily select specific cards, triggering a detailed view that provides comprehensive information about the card, its associated subject or athlete, and any sponsorships linked to it. A gallery-style display allows users to swipe or scroll through the cards, with each card featuring high-quality images and relevant details. Users can access additional information about the subjects or athletes, including career highlights, statistics, or notable achievements, enhancing the overall collector experience. Moreover, the user interface includes an indicator to notify users if a particular card has been used in previous rounds against other players. This feature adds a strategic element to the gameplay, allowing users to assess the historical performance of specific cards and make informed decisions about their selections in subsequent rounds. The interface is designed to be intuitive, ensuring that users can effortlessly navigate and engage with the rich content associated with individual trading cards.

[0088] In step 407, the trading card platform 101 presents a user interface displaying a digital representation of the comparison comprising respective representations of the first aggregate value metric and the second aggregate value metric. The user interface of the trading card platform incorporates a robust comparison feature that enables players to assess and compare the values of their trading card sets against those of other players. The interface then presents a comprehensive side-by-side analysis, showcasing key metrics that contribute to the overall value of each set. Visual elements such as charts, graphs, or numerical values make it easy for players to identify the strengths and weaknesses of each set in real-time. This allows players to make strategic decisions, refine their card selections, and adapt their strategies based on the dynamically calculated comparative values. The user interface ensures a user-friendly experience, providing a clear and insightful presentation of trading card set values, enhancing the competitive and strategic aspects of the gameplay.

[0089] In one embodiment, the trading card platform 101 iterates the computing of the first aggregate value metric and the second aggregate value metric over a plurality of rounds. The user interface then presents a user interface element indicating the plurality of rounds, the first aggregate value metric computed for one or more of the plurality of rounds, the second aggregate value metric computed for one or more of the plurality of rounds, or a combination thereof.

[0090] FIG. 4 is a time-sequence diagram 400 that illustrates a sequence of messages and processes between system components for computing a value metric 121 for a trading card 107, according to one example embodiment. A message that is passed from one process to another is represented by horizontal arrows. The processes represented in FIG. 4 are a UE 119 associated with a code reader 109 and application 117, the trading card platform 101, trading card data 113, value metric data 121, sponsorship data 123, services data 125, subject data 103, artist data 105, and content providers 133.

[0091] In one embodiment, the time-sequence diagram 400 starts with the code reader 109 (e.g., associated with UE 119) determining a card identifier associated with a trading card 107 of interest. As described previously, the machine readable code can be associated with the trading card 107 in any format (e.g., barcode, QR code, NFC, etc.). In some embodiments, the trading card 107 need not have a machine readable code. Instead, the code reader 109 can use computer vision to detect visual features of the trading card 107 and encode the detected visual features in afeature vector. This feature vector can then represent or otherwise be used to derive the card identifier that can be processed by the trading card platform 101. In many cases, the feature vector will be unique to the trading card 107 because the card’ s visual features are also likely to be unique.

[0092] For example, the code reader 109 can capture an image of the trading card 107 and then use one or more machine learning means (e.g., one or more neural networks such as but not limited to a deep neural network (DNN), convolutional neural network (CNN), You Only Look Once (YOLO) network, and / or equivalent) to detect the visual features of the card. The feature vector representing the visual features can be output directly from the machine learning means or otherwise extracted from a layer of the neural network (e.g., last layer before the output layer). Regardless of whether the card identifier is read from the machine readable code or determine using machine learning means, the code read 119 can send the card identifier to the application 117 (e.g., a trading card platform 101 client) executing on the UE 119 (e.g., via message 401). The application 117 then generates a trading card request to forward the card identifier to the trading card platform 101 (e.g., via message 403).

[0093] Next, the trading card platform 101 uses the card identifier to query the trading card data 113 for data on the digital representation 111 associated with the trading card 107 of interest (e.g., via message 405). Data on the digital representation 111 can include but are not limited to the fields to populate and render the UI elements described with respect to FIGs. 2A-2C such as the name of the subject, school, biographical information, artwork, etc. The data is then returned to the trading card platform 101 (e.g., via message 407).

[0094] The trading card platform 101 then begins using the card identifier to further query for one or more parameters that are used to determine the value metric 121 for the trading card 107 of interest. For example, the trading card platform 101 can perform any combination of one or more of the following queries:• a query for sponsorship data 123 based on the card identifier associated with the trading card 107 (e.g., via message 409) including a request for any content from content providers 133 that is included with the trading card 107 (e.g., via message 411), with query results returned to the trading card platform 101 (e.g., via message 413);• a query for services data 125 for any services that are included or otherwise available to be performed by the subject of the trading card 107 (e.g., examples of the services include but are not limited to autographs, texts, calls, voice messages, social media posts, creation of videos, live videos, pictures, meet and greets, etc.) (e.g., via message 415), with query results returned to the trading card platform 101 (e.g., via message 417);• a query for subject data 103 for one or more attributes of the subject (e.g., via message 419), with query results returned to the trading card platform 101 (e.g., via message 421); and• a query for artist data 105 for one or more attributes of the artist (e.g., via message 425), with query results returned to the trading card platform 101 (e.g., via message 421).

[0095] In one embodiment, the trading card platform 101 can use the query results to compute the value metric 121 for the trading card 107 of interest. It is contemplated that the trading card platform 101 can use any process or algorithm to aggregate or transform the query results to the value metric 121. One example process includes but is not limited to a heuristic approach based on one or more equations configured in the trading card platform 101 to perform the computation of the value metric 121. For example, the following equation is one but not exclusive example that can be used to compute the value metric 121 from sponsorship data 123:where VCardis the value metric 121 of the trading card 107, n is total number of promotional items (PI), and VPI. is the value of each individual promotional item (Pit).

[0096] In some embodiments, additional or alternative parameters or attributes (e.g., services data 125, subject data 103, artist data 105, content from content providers 133) beyond or instead of sponsorship data 123 (e.g., promotional items) are considered to compute the value metric 121. Accordingly, the following is another but not exclusive example equation that can be used to compute the value metric 121 :where VCardis the value metric 121 of the trading card 107, 11 is total number of promotional items PT), VP]. is the value of each individual promotional item (Pit), m is total number of services (5) included or otherwise available from the subject,is the value of each individual service Si),j is total number of included content items (C), Vcis the value of each individual content item (Cz), k is total number of subject attributes (£4), VSAis the value of each individual subject attribute (SAt), I is total number of artist attributes (AA), and VAAis the value of each individual artist (AAt).

[0097] In yet other embodiment, the trading card platform 101 can consider individual weights of the different items or param eters / attributes when computing the value metric 121. In this way, the trading card platform 101 can account for differential effects that different items / parameters have on the value metric 121. For example, the value of one promotional item may have a bigger effect on the value metric 121 than another promotional item, or the value of one subject attribute (e g., recruiting rating) may have a bigger effect on the value metric 121 than another subject attribute (e.g., college major). Accordingly, the following is another but not exclusive example equation that can be used to compute the value metric 121 :where VCardis the value metric 121 of the trading card 107, n is total number of promotional items (PT), VPI. is the value of each individual promotional item (Pit), wPI. is the weight for each individual promotional item (Pit), m is total number of services (5) included or otherwise available from the subject,is the value of each individual service (St), ws. is the weight for each individual service (Si), j is total number of included content items (Q, Vcis the value of each individual content item ( ), wc. is the weight for each individual content item ( ), k is total number of subject attributes (SA),is the value of each individual subject attribute (SA ), w^. is the weight for each individual subject attribute (SAi), I is total number of artist attributes (AA),VAAis the value of each individual artist (AA ), and wAA. is the weight for each individual subject attribute ( 1 lj).

[0098] It is noted that the above equations are provided by way of illustration and not as limitations. It is contemplated that any equivalent equation or algorithm can be used to compute the value metric 121 for a trading card 107.

[0099] In alternative embodiments, instead of a heuristic or equation-based approach, the trading card platform 101 can use machine learning to predict the value metric 121. More specifically, the trading card platform 101 can compute input features based on the query results from the one or more of the sponsorship data 123, services data 125, subject data 103, artist data 105, content from content providers 133, or services platform 129. The input features can then be fed into a machine learning model that has been trained to predict the value metric 121 (e.g., the output of the trained machine learning model).

[0100] In one embodiment, the machine learning model can be trained using a training data set comprising examples of trading card features that have been labeled with corresponding value metrics 121. This labeled data is used as the ground truth data for training. Multiple different loss functions and / or supervision schemes can be used alternatively or together to train the machine learning model to predict the value metric 121 for a trading card 107. One example scheme is based on supervised learning. For example, in supervised learning, the system 100 can incorporate a learning model (e.g., a logistic regression model, Random Forest model, and / or any equivalent model) to train the machine learning model to make predictions (e.g., predictions of the value metric 121) from input features. During training, the system 100 can feed feature sets from a training data set into the machine learning model to compute a predicted value metric 121 using an initial set of model parameters. The system 100 then compares the predicted matching probability and value metric 121 to ground truth data in the training data set for each training example used for training. The system 100 then computes an accuracy of the predictions (e.g., via a loss function) for the initial set of model parameters. If the accuracy or level of performance does not meet a threshold or configured level, the system 100 incrementally adjusts the model parameters until the machine learning model generates predictions at a desired or configured level of accuracy with respect to the annotated labels in the training data (e.g., the ground truth data). In other words, a “trained” machine learning model has model parameters adjusted to make accuratepredictions (e.g., predictions of the value metric 121) with respect to the training data set. In the case of a neural network, the model paraments can include, but are not limited, to the coefficients or weights and biases assigned to each connection between neurons in the layers of the neural network.

[0101] After the trading card platform 101 computes the value metric 121 (e.g., via the heuristic approach, machine learning-based approach, or equivalent as described above), the value metric 121 can be transmitted to the application 117 (e.g., via message 427) to update the rendering of the value metric 121 in the digital representation 111 in the user interface 115 and / or store the computed value metric 121 in the value metric database, trading card data 113, or equivalent database for later access (e.g., via message 429).

[0102] In one embodiment, the trading card platform 101 stores data records indicating redeemable promotional / sponsored items (sponsorship data 123) and / or services (e.g., services data 125) that are included or otherwise available for a subject of the trading card 107 to perform (e.g., in return for a fee payment to the subject). These redeemable items and / or services can be tracked according to the various embodiments of FIGs. 5 and 6 described below. As used herein, the term “redeemable “ refers to being able to present the trading card 107 in exchange for an item or service for free or at a discount.

[0103] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example a digital representation 111 of a trading card 107 listing available services, according to one example embodiment. The example digital representation 111 of FIG. 7 continues the examples of FIGs. 2A-2C and provides another screen of the digital representation 111 that includes a UI element 701 of available services. More specifically, the UI element 701 lists the subject services 703 that the subject has stored in the services data 125 as services that the subject is willing to perform (e.g., as part of the included items of the trading card 107 or for an extra fee payment to the subject). In one embodiment, the trading card platform 101 retrieves the services data 125 for the trading card and provides it to the application 117 of the UE device 119 for rendering the digital representation. As shown, in this example, the subject John Doe has listed that he is available to perform a voice recording, call, social post, text message, creation of a video, taking of a picture, participation on a video call, autograph, or engagement in a meet and greet event. Each of these available services is renderedin the digital representation with an interactive control element for a consumer to request any of the services.

[0104] As described with respect to the various embodiments of FIG. 6, the trading card platform 101 can provide proxy communication services 705 (e.g., phone / text relays via anonymized phone numbers or numbers identifying as the trading card platform 101). In one embodiment, the trading card platform 101 can provide first party services for one or more of the proxy communication services 703. In addition or alternatively, the proxy communication services 705 can be third party services provided by the services platform 129 and / or any of its services 131. In some embodiments, the services platform 129 can also provide connectivity to social media services and / or any other service / application for performing one or more of the available services listed in the digital representation 111 of the trading card 107 for delivery, access, connectivity, etc. to the requesting consumer’s device (e.g., a UE 119 executing client application(s) 117). In one embodiment, the services associated with a trading card 107 can be renewed between each subsequent card owner (e.g., for a designated number of renewals, expiration period, etc.), can be transferred to a new card owner only if not used, or can be nontransferable depending on the preferences of the subject, the trading card platform 101, or other platform user.

[0105] Returning to FIG. 1, as shown, the system 100 includes the trading card platform 101 alone or in combination with the application 117 to provide a digital infrastructure for providing trading cards 107 with intrinsic value related to associated sponsorship / promotional items according to the various embodiments described herein. In one embodiment, the trading card platform 101 includes or is otherwise associated with one or more machine learning models (e.g., neural networks or other equivalent network using algorithms such as but not limited to an evolutionary algorithm, reinforcement learning, or equivalent) for performing functions as discussed with respect to various embodiments described herein.

[0106] In one embodiment, the trading card platform 101 has connectivity over the communication network 127 to the services platform 129 that provides one or more services 131, one or more content providers 133, and other components of the system 100. By way of example, the services 131 may be third party services and include but is not social networking services, proxy communication services, shopping services, content (e.g., audio, video, images, etc.)management / delivery services, application services, storage services, contextual information determination services, location based services, information based services (e g., weather, news, etc.), etc.

[0107] In one embodiment, the trading card platform 101 may be a platform with multiple interconnected components. The trading card platform 101 may include multiple servers, intelligent networking devices, computing devices, components, and corresponding software for providing a digital trading card functions according to the various embodiments described herein. In addition, it is noted that the trading card platform 101 may be a separate entity of the system 100, a part of the one or more services 131 , a part of the services platform 129, or included within components of the UEs 119 or applications 117.

[0108] In one embodiment, content providers 133 may provide content or data (e.g., including programming content, broadcast content, streaming content, video on demand content, pay-per- view content, etc.) to the trading card platform 101, the services platform 129, the services 131, the UEs 119, and / or the applications 117 executing on the UEs 119. In one embodiment, the content providers 133 may provide content that may aid in digital trading card functions according to the various embodiments described herein. In one embodiment, the content providers 133 may also store content associated with the trading card platform 101, services platform 129, services 131, and / or any other component of the system 100. In another embodiment, the content providers 133 may manage access to a central repository of data, and offer a consistent, standard interface to data.

[0109] In one embodiment, the UEs 119 may execute software applications 117 to use or access data used and / or generated by the trading card platform 101 according to the embodiments described herein. By way of example, the applications 117 may also be any type of application that is executable on the UEs 119. In one embodiment, the applications 117 may act as a client for the trading card platform 101 and perform one or more functions associated with providing digital trading card functions alone or in combination with the trading card platform 101.

[0110] By way of example, the UEs 119 is or can include any type of embedded system, mobile terminal, fixed terminal, or portable terminal including a mobile handset, station, unit, device, multimedia computer, multimedia tablet, Internet node, communicator, desktop computer, laptop computer, notebook computer, netbook computer, tablet computer, personal communicationsystem (PCS) device, personal digital assistants (PDAs), audio / video player, digital camera / cam corder, positioning device, fitness device, television receiver, radio broadcast receiver, electronic book device, game device, or any combination thereof, including the accessories and peripherals of these devices, or any combination thereof. It is also contemplated that the UEs 119 can support any type of interface to the user (such as “wearable” circuitry, etc ). In one embodiment, the UEs 119 may be associated with the code reader 109 or include the code reader 109 as a component.[0U1] In one embodiment, the communication network 127 of system 100 includes one or more networks such as a data network, a wireless network, a telephony network, or any combination thereof. It is contemplated that the data network may be any local area network (LAN), metropolitan area network (MAN), wide area network (WAN), a public data network (e.g., the Internet), short range wireless network, or any other suitable packet-switched network, such as a commercially owned, proprietary packet-switched network, e.g., a proprietary cable or fiberoptic network, and the like, or any combination thereof. In addition, the wireless network may be, for example, a cellular network and may employ various technologies including enhanced data rates for global evolution (EDGE), general packet radio service (GPRS), global system for mobile communications (GSM), Internet protocol multimedia subsystem (IMS), universal mobile telecommunications system (UMTS), etc., as well as any other suitable wireless medium, e.g., worldwide interoperability for microwave access (WiMAX), Long Term Evolution (LTE) networks, 5G New Radio networks, code division multiple access (CDMA), wideband code division multiple access (WCDMA), wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi), wireless LAN (WLAN), Bluetooth®, Internet Protocol (IP) data casting, satellite, mobile ad-hoc network (MANET), and the like, or any combination thereof.

[0112] By way of example, the trading card platform 101, services platform 129, services 131, UEs 119, and / or content providers 133 communicate with each other and other components of the system 100 using well known, new or still developing protocols. In this context, a protocol includes a set of rules defining how the network nodes within the communication network 127 interact with each other based on information sent over the communication links. The protocols are effective at different layers of operation within each node, from generating and receiving physical signals of various types, to selecting a link for transferring those signals, to the format ofinformation indicated by those signals, to identifying which software application executing on a computer system sends or receives the information. The conceptually different layers of protocols for exchanging information over a network are described in the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) Reference Model.

[0113] Communications between the network nodes are typically effected by exchanging discrete packets of data. Each packet typically comprises (1) header information associated with a particular protocol, and (2) payload information that follows the header information and contains information that may be processed independently of that particular protocol. In some protocols, the packet includes (3) trailer information following the payload and indicating the end of the payload information. The header includes information such as the source of the packet, its destination, the length of the payload, and other properties used by the protocol. Often, the data in the payload for the particular protocol includes a header and payload for a different protocol associated with a different, higher layer of the OSI Reference Model. The header for a particular protocol typically indicates a type for the next protocol contained in its payload. The higher layer protocol is said to be encapsulated in the lower layer protocol. The headers included in a packet traversing multiple heterogeneous networks, such as the Internet, typically include a physical (layer 1) header, a data-link (layer 2) header, an internetwork (layer 3) header and a transport (layer 4) header, and various application (layer 5, layer 6 and layer 7) headers as defined by the OSI Reference Model.

[0114] The processes described herein for providing a digital trading card platform may be advantageously implemented via software, hardware (e g., general processor, Digital Signal Processing (DSP) chip, an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), etc.), firmware or a combination thereof. Such exemplary hardware for performing the described functions is detailed below.

[0115] Additionally, as used herein, the term ‘circuitry’ may refer to (a) hardware-only circuit implementations (for example, implementations in analog circuitry and / or digital circuitry); (b) combinations of circuits and computer program product(s) comprising software and / or firmware instructions stored on one or more computer readable memories that work together to cause an apparatus to perform one or more functions described herein; and (c) circuits, such as, for example, a microprocessor s) or a portion of a microprocessor s), that require software or firmware foroperation even if the software or firmware is not physically present. This definition of ‘circuitry’ applies to all uses of this term herein, including in any claims. As a further example, as used herein, the term ‘circuitry’ also includes an implementation comprising one or more processors and / or portion(s) thereof and accompanying software and / or firmware. As another example, the term ‘circuitry’ as used herein also includes, for example, a baseband integrated circuit or applications processor integrated circuit for a mobile phone or a similar integrated circuit in a server, a cellular device, other network device, and / or other computing device.

[0116] FIG. 8 illustrates a computer system 800 upon which an embodiment of the invention may be implemented. Computer system 800 is programmed (e.g., via computer program code or instructions) to provide a digital trading card platform as described herein and includes a communication mechanism such as a bus 810 for passing information between other internal and external components of the computer system 800. Information (also called data) is represented as a physical expression of a measurable phenomenon, typically electric voltages, but including, in other embodiments, such phenomena as magnetic, electromagnetic, pressure, chemical, biological, molecular, atomic, sub-atomic and quantum interactions. For example, north and south magnetic fields, or a zero and non-zero electric voltage, represent two states (0, 1) of a binary digit (bit). Other phenomena can represent digits of a higher base. A superposition of multiple simultaneous quantum states before measurement represents a quantum bit (qubit). A sequence of one or more digits constitutes digital data that is used to represent a number or code for a character. In some embodiments, information called analog data is represented by a near continuum of measurable values within a particular range.

[0117] A bus 810 includes one or more parallel conductors of information so that information is transferred quickly among devices coupled to the bus 810. One or more processors 802 for processing information are coupled with the bus 810.

[0118] A processor 802 performs a set of operations on information as specified by computer program code related to providing a digital trading card platform. The computer program code is a set of instructions or statements providing instructions for the operation of the processor and / or the computer system to perform specified functions. The code, for example, may be written in a computer programming language that is compiled into a native instruction set of the processor. The code may also be written directly using the native instruction set (e.g., machine language).The set of operations include bringing information in from the bus 810 and placing information on the bus 810. The set of operations also typically include comparing two or more units of information, shifting positions of units of information, and combining two or more units of information, such as by addition or multiplication or logical operations like OR, exclusive OR (XOR), and AND. Each operation of the set of operations that can be performed by the processor is represented to the processor by information called instructions, such as an operation code of one or more digits. A sequence of operations to be executed by the processor 802, such as a sequence of operation codes, constitute processor instructions, also called computer system instructions or, simply, computer instructions. Processors may be implemented as mechanical, electrical, magnetic, optical, chemical or quantum components, among others, alone or in combination.

[0119] Computer system 800 also includes a memory 804 coupled to bus 810. The memory 804, such as a random access memory (RAM) or other dynamic storage device, stores information including processor instructions for providing a digital trading card platform. Dynamic memory allows information stored therein to be changed by the computer system 800. RAM allows a unit of information stored at a location called a memory address to be stored and retrieved independently of information at neighboring addresses. The memory 804 is also used by the processor 802 to store temporary values during execution of processor instructions. The computer system 800 also includes a read only memory (ROM) 806 or other static storage device coupled to the bus 810 for storing static information, including instructions, that is not changed by the computer system 800. Some memory is composed of volatile storage that loses the information stored thereon when power is lost. Also coupled to bus 810 is a non-volatile (persistent) storage device 808, such as a magnetic disk, optical disk or flash card, for storing information, including instructions, that persists even when the computer system 800 is turned off or otherwise loses power.

[0120] Information, including instructions for providing a digital trading card platform, is provided to the bus 810 for use by the processor from an external input device 812, such as a keyboard containing alphanumeric keys operated by a human user, or a sensor. A sensor detects conditions in its vicinity and transforms those detections into physical expression compatible with the measurable phenomenon used to represent information in computer system 800. Other external devices coupled to bus 810, used primarily for interacting with humans, include a displaydevice 814, such as a cathode ray tube (CRT) or a liquid crystal display (LCD), or plasma screen or printer for presenting text or images, and a pointing device 816, such as a mouse or a trackball or cursor direction keys, or motion sensor, for controlling a position of a small cursor image presented on the display 814 and issuing commands associated with graphical elements presented on the display 814. In some embodiments, for example, in embodiments in which the computer system 800 performs all functions automatically without human input, one or more of external input device 812, display device 814 and pointing device 816 is omitted.

[0121] In the illustrated embodiment, special purpose hardware, such as an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) 820, is coupled to bus 810. The special purpose hardware is configured to perform operations not performed by processor 802 quickly enough for special purposes. Examples of application specific ICs include graphics accelerator cards for generating images for display 814, cryptographic boards for encrypting and decrypting messages sent over a network, speech recognition, and interfaces to special external devices, such as robotic arms and medical scanning equipment that repeatedly perform some complex sequence of operations that are more efficiently implemented in hardware.

[0122] Computer system 800 also includes one or more instances of a communications interface 870 coupled to bus 810. Communication interface 870 provides a one-way or two-way communication coupling to a variety of external devices that operate with their own processors, such as printers, scanners and external disks. In general the coupling is with a network link 878 that is connected to a local network 880 to which a variety of external devices with their own processors are connected. For example, communication interface 870 may be a parallel port or a serial port or a universal serial bus (USB) port on a personal computer. In some embodiments, communications interface 870 is an integrated services digital network (ISDN) card or a digital subscriber line (DSL) card or a telephone modem that provides an information communication connection to a corresponding type of telephone line. In some embodiments, a communication interface 870 is a cable modem that converts signals on bus 810 into signals for a communication connection over a coaxial cable or into optical signals for a communication connection over a fiber optic cable. As another example, communications interface 870 may be a local area network (LAN) card to provide a data communication connection to a compatible LAN, such as Ethernet. Wireless links may also be implemented. For wireless links, the communications interface 870sends or receives or both sends and receives electrical, acoustic or electromagnetic signals, including infrared and optical signals, that carry information streams, such as digital data. For example, in wireless handheld devices, such as mobile telephones like cell phones, the communications interface 870 includes a radio band electromagnetic transmitter and receiver called a radio transceiver. In certain embodiments, the communications interface 870 enables connection to the communication network 127 for providing a digital trading card platform.

[0123] The term computer-readable medium is used herein to refer to any medium that participates in providing information to processor 802, including instructions for execution. Such a medium may take many forms, including, but not limited to, non-volatile media, volatile media and transmission media. Non-volatile media include, for example, optical or magnetic disks, such as storage device 808. Volatile media include, for example, dynamic memory 804. Transmission media include, for example, coaxial cables, copper wire, fiber optic cables, and carrier waves that travel through space without wires or cables, such as acoustic waves and electromagnetic waves, including radio, optical and infrared waves. Signals include man-made transient variations in amplitude, frequency, phase, polarization or other physical properties transmitted through the transmission media. Common forms of computer-readable media include, for example, a floppy disk, a flexible disk, hard disk, magnetic tape, any other magnetic medium, a CD-ROM, CDRW, DVD, any other optical medium, punch cards, paper tape, optical mark sheets, any other physical medium with patterns of holes or other optically recognizable indicia, a RAM, a PROM, an EPROM, a FLASH-EPROM, any other memory chip or cartridge, a carrier wave, or any other medium from which a computer can read.

[0124] Network link 878 typically provides information communication using transmission media through one or more networks to other devices that use or process the information. For example, network link 878 may provide a connection through local network 880 to a host computer 882 or to equipment 884 operated by an Internet Service Provider (ISP). ISP equipment 884 in turn provides data communication services through the public, world-wide packet-switching communication network of networks now commonly referred to as the Internet 890.

[0125] A computer called a server host 892 connected to the Internet hosts a process that provides a service in response to information received over the Internet. For example, server host 892 hosts a process that provides information representing video data for presentation at display814. It is contemplated that the components of system can be deployed in various configurations within other computer systems, e.g., host 882 and server 892.

[0126] FIG. 9 illustrates a chip set 900 upon which an embodiment of the invention may be implemented. Chip set 900 is programmed to provide a digital trading card platform as described herein and includes, for instance, the processor and memory components described with respect to FIG. 8 incorporated in one or more physical packages (e.g., chips). By way of example, a physical package includes an arrangement of one or more materials, components, and / or wires on a structural assembly (e.g., a baseboard) to provide one or more characteristics such as physical strength, conservation of size, and / or limitation of electrical interaction. It is contemplated that in certain embodiments the chip set can be implemented in a single chip.

[0127] In one embodiment, the chip set 900 includes a communication mechanism such as a bus 901 for passing information among the components of the chip set 900. A processor 903 has connectivity to the bus 901 to execute instructions and process information stored in, for example, a memory 905. The processor 903 may include one or more processing cores with each core configured to perform independently. A multi-core processor enables multiprocessing within a single physical package. Examples of a multi-core processor include two, four, eight, or greater numbers of processing cores. Alternatively or in addition, the processor 903 may include one or more microprocessors configured in tandem via the bus 901 to enable independent execution of instructions, pipelining, and multithreading. The processor 903 may also be accompanied with one or more specialized components to perform certain processing functions and tasks such as one or more digital signal processors (DSP) 907, or one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASIC) 909. A DSP 907 typically is configured to process real-world signals (e.g., sound) in real time independently of the processor 903. Similarly, an ASIC 909 can be configured to performed specialized functions not easily performed by a general purposed processor. Other specialized components to aid in performing the inventive functions described herein include one or more field programmable gate arrays (FPGA) (not shown), one or more controllers (not shown), or one or more other special-purpose computer chips.

[0128] The processor 903 and accompanying components have connectivity to the memory 905 via the bus 901. The memory 905 includes both dynamic memory (e.g., RAM, magnetic disk, writable optical disk, etc.) and static memory (e.g., ROM, CD-ROM, etc.) for storingexecutable instructions that when executed perform the inventive steps described herein to provide a digital trading card platform. The memory 905 also stores the data associated with or generated by the execution of the inventive steps.

[0129] FIG. 10 is a diagram of exemplary components of a mobile terminal (e.g., UE 119) capable of operating in the system of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment. Generally, a radio receiver is often defined in terms of front-end and back-end characteristics. The front-end of the receiver encompasses all of the Radio Frequency (RF) circuitry whereas the back-end encompasses all of the base-band processing circuitry. Pertinent internal components of the telephone include a Main Control Unit (MCU) 1003, a Digital Signal Processor (DSP) 1005, and a receiver / transmitter unit including a microphone gain control unit and a speaker gain control unit. A main display unit 1007 provides a display to the user in support of various applications and mobile station functions that offer automatic contact matching. An audio function circuitry 1009 includes a microphone 1011 and microphone amplifier that amplifies the speech signal output from the microphone 1011. The amplified speech signal output from the microphone 1011 is fed to a coder / decoder (CODEC) 1013.

[0130] ?A radio section 1015 amplifies power and converts frequency in order to communicate with a base station, which is included in a mobile communication system, via antenna 1017. The power amplifier (PA) 1019 and the transmitter / modulation circuitry are operationally responsive to the MCU 1003, with an output from the PA 1019 coupled to the duplexer 1021 or circulator or antenna switch, as known in the art. The PA 1019 also couples to a battery interface and power control unit 1020.

[0131] In use, a user of mobile station 1001 speaks into the microphone 1011 and his or her voice along with any detected background noise is converted into an analog voltage. The analog voltage is then converted into a digital signal through the Analog to Digital Converter (ADC) 1023. The control unit 1003 routes the digital signal into the DSP 1005 for processing therein, such as speech encoding, channel encoding, encrypting, and interleaving. In one embodiment, the processed voice signals are encoded, by units not separately shown, using a cellular transmission protocol such as global evolution (EDGE), general packet radio service (GPRS), global system for mobile communications (GSM), Internet protocol multimedia subsystem (IMS), universal mobile telecommunications system (UMTS), etc., as well as any other suitable wireless medium, e.g.,microwave access (WiMAX), Long Term Evolution (LTE) networks, 5G New Radio networks, code division multiple access (CDMA), wireless fidelity (WiFi), satellite, and the like.

[0132] The encoded signals are then routed to an equalizer 1025 for compensation of any frequency-dependent impairments that occur during transmission though the air such as phase and amplitude distortion. After equalizing the bit stream, the modulator 1027 combines the signal with a RF signal generated in the RF interface 1029. The modulator 1027 generates a sine wave by way of frequency or phase modulation. In order to prepare the signal for transmission, an up- converter 1031 combines the sine wave output from the modulator 1027 with another sine wave generated by a synthesizer 1033 to achieve the desired frequency of transmission. The signal is then sent through a PA 1019 to increase the signal to an appropriate power level. In practical systems, the PA 1019 acts as a variable gain amplifier whose gain is controlled by the DSP 1005 from information received from a network base station. The signal is then filtered within the duplexer 1021 and optionally sent to an antenna coupler 1035 to match impedances to provide maximum power transfer. Finally, the signal is transmitted via antenna 1017 to a local base station. An automatic gain control (AGC) can be supplied to control the gain of the final stages of the receiver. The signals may be forwarded from there to a remote telephone which may be another cellular telephone, other mobile phone or a land-line connected to a Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN), or other telephony networks.

[0133] Voice signals transmitted to the mobile station 1001 are received via antenna 1017 and immediately amplified by a low noise amplifier (LNA) 1037. A down-converter 1039 lowers the carrier frequency while the demodulator 1041 strips away the RF leaving only a digital bit stream. The signal then goes through the equalizer 1025 and is processed by the DSP 1005. A Digital to Analog Converter (DAC) 1043 converts the signal and the resulting output is transmitted to the user through the speaker 1045, all under control of a Main Control Unit (MCU) 1003-which can be implemented as a Central Processing Unit (CPU) (not shown).

[0134] The MCU 1003 receives various signals including input signals from the keyboard 1047. The keyboard 1047 and / or the MCU 1003 in combination with other user input components (e g., the microphone 1011) comprise a user interface circuitry for managing user input. The MCU 1003 runs a user interface software to facilitate user control of at least some functions of the mobile station 1001 to provide a digital trading card platform. The MCU 1003 also delivers adisplay command and a switch command to the display 1007 and to the speech output switching controller, respectively. Further, the MCU 1003 exchanges information with the DSP 1005 and can access an optionally incorporated SIM card 1049 and a memory 1051. In addition, the MCU 1003 executes various control functions required of the station. The DSP 1005 may, depending upon the implementation, perform any of a variety of conventional digital processing functions on the voice signals. Additionally, DSP 1005 determines the background noise level of the local environment from the signals detected by microphone 1011 and sets the gain of microphone 1011 to a level selected to compensate for the natural tendency of the user of the mobile station 1001.

[0135] The CODEC 1013 includes the ADC 1023 and DAC 1043. The memory 1051 stores various data including call incoming tone data and is capable of storing other data including music data received via, e.g., the global Internet. The software module could reside in RAM memory, flash memory, registers, or any other form of writable computer-readable storage medium known in the art including non-transitory computer-readable storage medium. For example, the memory device 1051 may be, but not limited to, a single memory, CD, DVD, ROM, RAM, EEPROM, optical storage, or any other non-volatile or non-transitory storage medium capable of storing digital data.

[0136] An optionally incorporated SIM card 1049 carries, for instance, important information, such as the cellular phone number, the carrier supplying service, subscription details, and security information. The SIM card 1049 serves primarily to identify the mobile station 1001 on a radio network. The card 1049 also contains a memory for storing a personal telephone number registry, text messages, and user specific mobile station settings.

[0137] While the invention has been described in connection with a number of embodiments and implementations, the invention is not so limited but covers various obvious modifications and equivalent arrangements, which fall within the purview of the appended claims. Although features of the invention are expressed in certain combinations among the claims, it is contemplated that these features can be arranged in any combination and order.

Claims

CLAIMSWHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. An apparatus comprising: at least one processor; and at least one memory including computer program code for one or more programs, the at least one memory and the computer program code configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to perform at least the following: determine a first set of one or more first trading cards and a second set of one or more second trading cards; compute a first aggregate value metric based on one or more respective first value metrics of the first set, and a second aggregate value metric based on one or more respective second value metrics of the second set; initiate a comparison of the first aggregate value metric and the second aggregate value metric; and present a user interface displaying a digital representation of the comparison comprising respective representations of the first aggregate value metric and the second aggregate value metric.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the apparatus is further caused to: determine which of the first set and the second set has a higher aggregate value metric, wherein the user interface presents a user interface element indicating which of the first set and the second set is determined to have the higher aggregate value metric.

3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the apparatus is further caused to: iterate the computing of the first aggregate value metric and the second aggregate value metric over a plurality of rounds,wherein the user interface presents a user interface element indicating the plurality of rounds, the first aggregate value metric computed for one or more of the plurality of rounds, the second aggregate value metric computed for one or more of the plurality of rounds, or a combination thereof.

4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the one or more respective first value metrics and the one or more respective second value metrics are computed using a trained machine learning model, wherein the trained machine learning model has model parameters adjusted to make an accurate prediction of the first aggregate value metric and the second aggregate value metric to a target accuracy threshold.

5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein using the trained machine learning model comprises: computing one or more input features from attribute data associated with the first set and the second set; and feeding the one or more input features to the trained machine learning model, wherein the first aggregate value metric and the second aggregate value metric are dynamic value metrics that are updated based on monitoring the attribute data using a processor to determine that one or more changes to the attribute data have occurred.

6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the one or more changes include adding or deleting one or more trading cards of the first set or the second set.

7. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the attribute data includes one or more sponsorship data records.

8. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the one or more changes include redeeming one or more promotions associated with the one or more sponsorship data records.

9. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the first aggregate value metric, the second aggregate value metric are based, at least in part, on performance statistics data associated with respective subjects of the one or more first trading cards and the one or more second trading cards.

10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the one or more first trading cards and the one or more second trading cards are digital trading cards, and wherein the digital trading cards of the first set and the second set are specified via an interaction with the user interface.

11. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium, carrying one or more sequences of one or more instructions which, when executed by one or more processors, cause an apparatus to perform: determining a first set of one or more first trading cards and a second set of one or more second trading cards; computing a first aggregate value metric based on one or more respective first value metrics of the first set, and a second aggregate value metric based on one or more respective second value metrics of the second set; initiating a comparison of the first aggregate value metric and the second aggregate value metric; and presenting a user interface displaying a digital representation of the comparison comprising respective representations of the first aggregate value metric and the second aggregate value metric.

12. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 11, wherein the apparatus is further caused to perform: determining which of the first set and the second set has a higher aggregate value metric, wherein the user interface presents a user interface element indicating which of the first set and the second set is determined to have the higher aggregate value metric.

13. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 1, wherein the apparats is caused to further perform:iterating the computing of the first aggregate value metric and the second aggregate value metric over a plurality of rounds, wherein the user interface presents a user interface element indicating the plurality of rounds, the first aggregate value metric computed for one or more of the plurality of rounds, the second aggregate value metric computed for one or more of the plurality of rounds, or a combination thereof.

14. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 1 1, wherein the one or more respective first value metrics and the one or more respective second value metrics are computed using a trained machine learning model, wherein the trained machine learning model has model parameters adjusted to make an accurate prediction of the first aggregate value metric and the second aggregate value metric to a target accuracy threshold.

15. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 14, wherein using the trained machine learning model comprises: computing one or more input features from attribute data associated with the first set and the second set; and feeding the one or more input features to the trained machine learning model, wherein the first aggregate value metric and the second aggregate value metric are dynamic value metrics that are updated based on monitoring the attribute data using a processor to determine that one or more changes to the attribute data have occurred.

16. A method comprising: determining a first set of one or more first trading cards and a second set of one or more second trading cards; computing a first aggregate value metric based on one or more respective first value metrics of the first set, and a second aggregate value metric based on one or more respective second value metrics of the second set; initiating a comparison of the first aggregate value metric and the second aggregate value metric; andpresenting a user interface displaying a digital representation of the comparison comprising respective representations of the first aggregate value metric and the second aggregate value metric.

17. The method of claim 16, further comprising: determining which of the first set and the second set has a higher aggregate value metric, wherein the user interface presents a user interface element indicating which of the first set and the second set is determined to have the higher aggregate value metric.

18. The method of claim 16, further comprising: iterating the computing of the first aggregate value metric and the second aggregate value metric over a plurality of rounds, wherein the user interface presents a user interface element indicating the plurality of rounds, the first aggregate value metric computed for one or more of the plurality of rounds, the second aggregate value metric computed for one or more of the plurality of rounds, or a combination thereof.

19. The method of claim 16, wherein the one or more respective first value metrics and the one or more respective second value metrics are computed using a trained machine learning model, wherein the trained machine learning model has model parameters adjusted to make an accurate prediction of the first aggregate value metric and the second aggregate value metric to a target accuracy threshold.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein using the trained machine learning model comprises: computing one or more input features from attribute data associated with the first set and the second set; and feeding the one or more input features to the trained machine learning model, wherein the first aggregate value metric and the second aggregate value metric are dynamic value metrics that are updated based on monitoring the attribute data using a processor to determine that one or more changes to the attribute data have occurred.

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