Barcode Scanning for Virtual Object Import in Games

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current video game technologies lack a seamless integration of real-world product information into virtual worlds, limiting the verisimilitude and engagement of virtual objects.

Innovation Solution

The method involves using barcodes to import virtual objects into virtual worlds by scanning real-world objects, where the barcode information is deciphered to retrieve corresponding virtual objects or statistics, allowing players to interact with them in the game environment, enhancing gameplay experience and engagement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional video game object import methods are used, then the game development process is simple, but the verisimilitude and engagement of virtual objects is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveverisimilitude of virtual objectsVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The barcode scanning system serves multiple functions: it imports virtual objects into the game world, provides product information to players, and creates links between real-world products and virtual representations. This multi-functional approach enhances verisimilitude without proportionally increasing system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

Barcodes act as an intermediary element that bridges the real world and the virtual game environment. By scanning real-world product barcodes, players can import corresponding virtual objects, creating a seamless connection between physical and digital realms while maintaining system manageability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If barcode scanning is implemented to import virtual objects, then player engagement increases, but the ease of operation decreases due to additional steps

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveplayer engagementVSAvoidoperation simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system allows players to independently scan barcodes and import virtual objects without requiring game developer intervention or complex configuration. Players serve their own need for engaging virtual content by scanning real-world products, making the process accessible and engaging while maintaining operational simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If real-world product data is integrated into virtual worlds, then the gaming experience is enriched, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegaming experience richnessVSAvoiddata integration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts essential product information from real-world barcodes and imports only the necessary data (virtual object representation, basic product attributes) into the virtual game environment. This selective extraction enriches the gaming experience with real-world product data while avoiding the complexity of integrating entire product databases or manufacturing systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Data Source

PatentUS8882595B2Systems and methods of importing virtual objects using barcodes
Publication Date: 2014.11.11 IMAGINE AR INC
  • US8882595B2 patent drawing
  • US8882595B2 patent drawing
  • US8882595B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method is provided for enabling virtual gameplay. A game environment is provided in which a player can play a game via a character. When the player scans a barcode from a real world object, a virtual object is retrieved based on the barcode input. The player's character can then own or interact with the virtual object in the game environment.