Physical Object Unlocking Virtual Items via Identification Codes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users of online Internet applications miss the tangible and physical aspects of interactions while customizing avatars on a computer screen, as existing systems fail to provide a satisfying blend of virtual and real-world interactivity.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that allows users to access a virtual object corresponding to a real object by using an unlocking code, enabling seamless integration of virtual items within both video games and social networking applications, using a networked system with authentication servers and game consoles or personal computers to unlock and utilize virtual versions of real objects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If users interact with virtual objects on a computer screen, then online application functionality is improved, but tangible and physical interaction aspects are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines virtual and real-world interactions by allowing physical objects to unlock and activate virtual items in online applications. The system merges the digital virtual item space with the physical real-world object space, enabling users to interact with both domains simultaneously through a unified platform.
Solution Approach 2:
The online application serves as an intermediary system that connects physical objects with virtual items. The system uses identification codes on physical objects as mediators to trigger virtual item acquisition, bridging the gap between tangible real-world interactions and intangible virtual experiences.
2Ease of operation
If users revert to traditional physical means of play, then tangible interaction is improved, but online interaction benefits are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges traditional physical play objects with modern online interaction capabilities. Physical toys and objects retain their tangible interaction benefits while gaining new functionality through the ability to unlock virtual items, allowing users to enjoy both physical and online interaction benefits simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
Physical objects are given multiple functions: their traditional play value and the additional function of unlocking virtual items online. This multi-functionality allows a single physical object to serve both as a traditional toy and as a key to virtual content, eliminating the need to choose between physical and digital experiences.
3Adaptability or versatility
If virtual items are made accessible through physical objects, then user engagement is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the identification code information from physical objects and uses it separately to unlock virtual items. By separating the identification function from the virtual item delivery mechanism, the system reduces complexity - the physical object only needs to contain identification information, while the online platform handles the complex logic of verification and item distribution.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service interaction where users simply present physical objects to the online application, which automatically detects the identification code and provides the corresponding virtual item. This automated process reduces the need for complex user interfaces or manual verification procedures, simplifying the overall system interaction.
Data Source
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AI summary
There is provided a system and method for providing access to a virtual object corresponding to a real object. There is provided a method comprising authenticating a user account for a networked application, confirming a validity of a user provided code, wherein the code is visible on the real object or on accompanying materials of the real object, and granting the user account access to the virtual object for use in the networked application in response to the confirming of the validity. As a result, users are enabled to enjoy interactions with real objects as well as corresponding virtual objects both in an offline video game context and in an online network application context.