U.S. patent application number 12/540315 was filed with the patent office on 2011-02-17 for interactive system and method for digital artifact relocation and activation.
This patent application is currently assigned to 3 LEGGED DOG, INC.. Invention is credited to Seth D. Levenson.
Application Number | 20110039622 12/540315 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 43588911 |
Filed Date | 2011-02-17 |
United States Patent
Application |
20110039622 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Levenson; Seth D. |
February 17, 2011 |
INTERACTIVE SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DIGITAL ARTIFACT RELOCATION AND
ACTIVATION
Abstract
A system comprising a digital artifact (100) with a
non-predetermined location (104) is disclosed. The system can
further comprise an identifier (180) and an asset (182) associated
with the digital artifact (100). In addition, the system can
further comprise a first participant client device (102) associated
with the digital artifact (100), where a second participant client
device (102) subsequently associates with the digital artifact
(100) at a subsequent location (104). A method comprising assigning
an accuracy assignment zone (1200) to a participant client device
(102) and a digital artifact (100) is also disclosed.
Inventors: |
Levenson; Seth D.;
(Calabasas, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
AEXIUS, LLC
904 Silver Spur Rd. #310
Rolling Hills Estates
CA
90274
US
|
Assignee: |
3 LEGGED DOG, INC.
CALABASAS
CA
|
Family ID: |
43588911 |
Appl. No.: |
12/540315 |
Filed: |
August 12, 2009 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
463/42 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63F 13/85 20140902;
A63F 13/58 20140902; A63F 2300/407 20130101; A63F 2300/65 20130101;
A63F 2300/204 20130101; A63F 13/335 20140902; A63F 2300/575
20130101; A63F 13/44 20140902; A63F 13/79 20140902; A63F 2300/8058
20130101; A63F 13/216 20140902; A63F 2300/5573 20130101; A63F 13/49
20140902 |
Class at
Publication: |
463/42 |
International
Class: |
A63F 9/24 20060101
A63F009/24 |
Claims
1. A system comprising: a digital artifact; and an at least one
non-predetermined location which is associated with the digital
artifact.
2. the system of claim 1, further comprising: an identifier
associated with the digital artifact; and an asset associated with
the digital artifact.
3. the system of claim 2, further comprising a first participant
client device associated with the digital artifact, and where a
second participant client device subsequently associates with the
digital artifact at a subsequent location.
4. the system of claim 3, where the digital artifact is set to the
at least one non-predetermined location by the first participant
client device and associated to the second participant client
device.
5. the system of claim 4, further comprising a physical location
associated with the digital artifact.
6. the system of claim 5, further comprising a proximity reach
roughly surrounding the first participant client device based a
radius extending from the non-predetermined location of the first
participant client device.
7. the system of claim 6, where the proximity reach overlaps with
the at least one non-predetermined location.
8. the system of claim 7, where a proximity detector is displayed
on a computing device indicating the digital artifact at the at
least one non-predetermined location.
9. the system of claim 8, where the second participant client
device obtains the digital artifact and subsequently releases the
digital artifact in a non-predetermined location.
10. the system of claim 9, further comprising a request to a
server, where the request comprises the at least one
non-predetermined location which establishes a new location of the
digital artifact.
11. the system of claim 10, where the at least one
non-predetermined location is within in a set of locations.
12. the system of claim 11, where the digital artifact further
comprises a trading card.
13. the system of claim 12, further comprising: a participant
client device which obtains the trading card when the participant
client device's location is substantially in proximity with the at
least one non-predetermined location.
14. the system of claim 11, further comprising an evolution game
where the digital artifact further comprises an at least one
creature.
15. the system of claim 14, where the at least one creature
comprises an at least one attribute, and where the at least one
attribute comprises a genetic material.
16. the system of claim 15, further comprising an area comprising a
first genetic material and a second genetic material.
17. the system of claim 16, where the first genetic material and
the second genetic material being in proximity randomly generate a
third genetic material.
18. the system of claim 11, where the digital artifact comprises a
token.
19. the system of claim 18, where the token comprises an at least
one numeric value.
20. the system of claim 19, where the token is obtained by a first
participant client device and a second participant client
device.
21. the system of claim 20, where the token is released an "n"
number of times in an an "n" number of non-predetermined locations
less than or equal to the "n" number of times, resulting in an "n"
number of tokens.
22. the system of claim 21, further comprising a primary token
randomly selected from the "n" number of tokens.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of and is being filed
concurrently with a U.S. patent application of even date and common
inventorship, which is hereby incorporated by reference herein.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of Invention
[0003] This invention relates in general to interactive gaming
systems, and in particular to mobile gaming systems with a digital
artifact that can be released, obtained, relocated, and activated
according to a physical location which is not predetermined and
where the physical location is user-definable.
[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0005] Mobile device location systems are known in the related art,
some of which include: U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,561,104, 5,225,842,
7,139,582, 7,298,327, 5,280,457, 7,570,960, 7,444,155, 7,403,853,
7,529,236, 7,212,157, 6,813,499, 6,084,547, 6,1344,48, 7,486,233,
and 5,930,717. However, the related art consistently does not teach
or suggest a digital artifact's accuracy zone in proximity with a
mobile device accuracy zone, or accuracy zones between or among
mobile devices in relation to one another.
[0006] Interactive systems are also known in the related art, some
of which include:
[0007] U.S. Pat. No. 5,933,100 (Loomis) teaches a GPS navigation
system with a map, locations, and a navigation path.
[0008] U.S. Pat. No. 5,942,969 (Wicks) assigned to Sony teaches a
treasure hunt game with clues sent to a pager.
[0009] U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,104,815 and RE39,644 (Alcorn et al.) teach
mobile wager data communication with a casino using authentication
and encryption.
[0010] U.S. Pat. No. 6,200,138 (Ando et al.) teaches a driving game
with characters moving in a virtual 3D environment and an arrow
indicator.
[0011] U.S. Pat. No. 6,884,171 (Eck) assigned to Nintendo, Inc.,
teaches distribution of image files on general purpose computing
devices of varying display capabilities in certain moving vehicles
and appliances.
[0012] U.S. Pat. No. 6,932,698 (Sprogis) teaches mobile device
locations in a treasure hunt game.
[0013] U.S. Pat. No. 7,435,179 (Ford) teaches a shooting game where
mobile devices communicate directly to each other designated to be
in-range or out-of-range, but does not teach non-predetermined
locations.
[0014] U.S. Pat. No. 7,441,203 (Othmer et al.) teaches a ticker on
a mobile GPS device.
[0015] U.S. Pat. No. 7,460,863 (Steelberg et al.) assigned to
Google, Inc. teaches radio frequency (RF) subcarrier band
broadcasting and RF triangulation telemetry tracking (RF-3T) to a
remote user gaming device with a GPS-tracked location with
PIN-based player authentication.
[0016] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/801,491 (Arner et al.)
teaches a two-way mobile wireless network with GPS data.
[0017] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/901,709 (Suzuki) teaches
a spy game with a plurality of GPS gaming devices in a
predetermined game program based on a first positional information
and second positional information.
[0018] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/190,056 (Mages) teaches
a plurality of transmitters to locate wired or wireless devices for
casino games connected to a CDMA server and coupled to a GPS base
station.
[0019] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/409,546 (Ellenby et al.)
teaches treasure hunts, tours, and location-sensitive "GeoPets"
that breed, have properties such as intelligence and beauty, and
fight enemies.
[0020] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/455,646 (Barros et al.)
teaches predetermined GPS locations of mobile devices in a
game.
[0021] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/788,903 (Gentles et al.)
teaches a distributed, loosely coupled network for wager-based
gaming using web services.
[0022] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/163,329 (Robertson)
teaches location-aware games, including scavenger hunts, played on
a mobile device. However, Robertson does not teach
non-predetermined locations set by users during game play.
[0023] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/317,875 (Loo et al.)
teaches a virtual multi-dimensional 3D game with an advertisement
displayed relative to a player's position based on factors such as:
distance, orientation, environmental lighting, brightness, and
visibility at a given time.
[0024] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/303,973 (Willis et al.)
teaches selecting advertising content data based on location data
in a video game.
[0025] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/414,967 (Milic-Frayling
et al.) assigned to Microsoft, teaches photo images relating to
locations along a journey, but lacks manipulation of the images or
ability to relocate such images.
[0026] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/842,019 (Mullen) teaches
a multiplayer, virtual playfield with GPS-based location devices
where characters are controlled and object can be picked up and put
down by a virtual game character by pressing an action button until
the game or game level ends.
[0027] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/146,907 (Huston) teaches
GPS-based location and messaging with zoom, pan, and tilt.
[0028] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/331,320 (Saunders et
al.) teaches devices with GPS locations in a casino network.
[0029] WO2004061485 (Morse) teaches GPS locations for a golf
course, a golf player, and a golf ball with predetermined golf
course information with a mobile unit interfacing with a GPS.
[0030] Spore teaches a non-human creature creation game, but does
not teach leaving genetic material in a geopositional location.
[0031] Software development kits (SDKs) are known in the related
art, some of which include: Apple's iphone SDK, Google Android,
Microsoft Windows CE, Microsoft Windows Mobile, Palm OS.
[0032] However, the related art does not teach or fairly suggest a
digital artifact in a non-predetermined or user-determined location
capable of being obtained, altered, or released in another location
for interaction by others. Furthermore, such systems in the related
art do not teach or fairly suggest non-predetermined paths or
aggregation of multiple digital artifacts in the non-predetermined
or user-determined location. Moreover, the related art does not
teach or fairly suggest locating a digital artifacts in proximity
with a mobile device, or proximity via accuracy zones around the
digital artifact and the mobile device.
[0033] It can be seen, then, that there is a need in the art for an
interactive system and method that allows user-defined locations
that are not predetermined. It can also be seen that there is a
need to facilitate multi-user interaction when the proximity of
user interaction is unknown as to location and time. Moreover, it
can be seen that there is a need for flexible user-created paths.
Furthermore, it can be seen that there is a need to provide
proximity sensing capabilities to enhance interactivity amongst
users and objects. Finally, it can be seen that there is a need to
address any combination of these problems.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0034] To minimize the limitations in the prior art, and to
minimize other limitations that will become apparent upon reading
and understanding the present specification, the present invention
discloses a method for imparting, locating, obtaining and altering
a digital artifact in a non-predetermined or user-determined
location. Further, the present invention discloses a system
comprising a digital artifact at a non-predetermined or
user-determined location where a participant client can obtain the
digital artifact and release the digital artifact at a second
non-predetermined location. The digital artifact can be obtained by
another participant client.
[0035] The description of the preferred embodiments is to be
understood as non-limiting examples of the present invention. The
true scope of the invention is to be understood by the claims and
not limited by the preferred embodiments.
[0036] An aspect of the invention is to allow users to place,
locate, obtain, release, or alter a digital artifact by using a
mobile device. In most preferred embodiments, the information can
be recorded on a server. Further, the digital artifact can be
relocated and obtained subsequently by other users.
[0037] In a possible embodiment, a creature evolution game
incorporates the digital artifact. For example, a creature can be
created and the digital artifact can be a representation of the
creature's DNA. A second creature can be created and a third
creature can be derived by mixing the DNA of the two creatures
where the DNA digital artifact was left in a location and has been
made available for DNA interaction.
[0038] In another possible embodiment, the digital artifact is a
trading card.
[0039] In yet another possible embodiment, the digital artifact is
a token in a treasure hunt. A non-predetermined path can be
established once the first location is set, which can be randomly
established. However, by making the first location
non-predetermined, this provides flexibility in game play.
[0040] An aspect of the invention is to provide a physical location
which can be used to place, locate, obtain, release, or alter the
digital artifact. Physical locations can be anywhere that a GPS or
other location system can track; preferably a retail store or other
physical location.
[0041] An aspect of the invention is to provide proximity location
capabilities between a digital artifact having an accuracy
assignment with a participant client device, such as a computing
device having its own accuracy assignment.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0042] Referring now to the drawings in which like reference
numbers represent corresponding parts throughout:
[0043] FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic diagram of a preferred
embodiment of the present invention;
[0044] FIG. 2 illustrates a possible embodiment of the present
invention involving a trading card game;
[0045] FIG. 3 illustrates a possible embodiment of the present
invention involving an evolution game;
[0046] FIG. 4 illustrates a possible embodiment of the present
invention involving a scavenger hunt;
[0047] FIG. 4B illustrates a possible embodiment of the present
invention;
[0048] FIG. 5 illustrates a method diagram of a preferred
embodiment the present invention;
[0049] FIG. 6 illustrates a possible embodiment of the present
invention;
[0050] FIG. 7 illustrates a possible embodiment of the present
invention;
[0051] FIG. 8 illustrates a possible embodiment of the present
invention;
[0052] FIG. 9 illustrates a possible embodiment of the present
invention;
[0053] FIG. 10 illustrates an interaction scheme of a possible
embodiment of the present invention;
[0054] FIG. 11 illustrates a proximity aspect of a possible
embodiment of the present invention;
[0055] FIG. 12 illustrates a proximity aspect of a possible
embodiment of the present invention;
[0056] FIG. 13 illustrates a proximity aspect of a possible
embodiment of the present invention;
[0057] FIG. 14 illustrates a proximity aspect of a possible
embodiment of the present invention;
[0058] FIG. 15 illustrates a proximity aspect of a possible
embodiment of the present invention;
[0059] FIG. 15B illustrates a proximity aspect of a possible
embodiment of the present invention;
[0060] FIG. 15C illustrates a proximity aspect of a possible
embodiment of the present invention;
[0061] FIG. 16 illustrates a proximity aspect of a possible
embodiment of the present invention;
[0062] FIG. 17 illustrates a proximity aspect of a possible
embodiment of the present invention;
[0063] FIG. 18 illustrates a possible embodiment of the present
invention;
[0064] FIG. 19 illustrates a possible embodiment of the present
invention;
[0065] FIG. 20 illustrates a possible embodiment of the present
invention; and
[0066] FIG. 21 illustrates a method diagram of another preferred
embodiment the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0067] In the following description of the preferred embodiments,
reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part
hereof, and in which is shown by way of illustration specific
embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. It is to be
understood that other embodiments may be utilized and structural
changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present
invention.
[0068] References throughout the specification to "a possible
embodiment," "a preferred embodiment," "some embodiments," "an
embodiment," and like reference to "embodiment" are non-limiting
examples to aid in understanding an element, function, way, result,
means, structure, aspect, and/or benefit of the present invention.
An "embodiment" provides that there is one or more embodiments that
can involve the given element or aspect of the invention. Thus,
multiple instances of "an embodiment" and like reference do not
necessarily refer to the same embodiment.
[0069] It will be understood that "location" can refer to any
physical or virtual location, whether or not the location is
specified by a latitude and longitude point, altitude, tilt,
direction, region, user-defined designation, proximity to a
coordinate or landmark, or otherwise. It will be understood that
"scavenger hunt" can also include a treasure hunt, search for an
object or person, or contest. It will be understood that "area" can
mean a region, proximate location, bounded area, two-dimensional or
three-dimensional space, or series of coordinates defining a space.
It will be understood that "physical location" refers to real-world
locations and not to virtual locations. It will be understood that
"associate" can refer to any relationship between two or more
things, whether implemented by relational or non-relational
database, object database, any markup language, database management
system, spider, search engine, file system, query-capable system,
or otherwise, or any combination or equivalent thereof. In an
embodiment, associating can be initiated by clicking, pressing a
button, tapping a touch-sensitive screen, or otherwise. It will be
understood that "set" can mean "associate." It will be understood
that "drop" refers to releasing 506 of digital artifact 100. It
will be understood that "numeric value" can mean any number or part
thereof, whether involving currency, cost, price, winnings, points,
or otherwise. It will be understood that all elements and
combinations of elements described herein also include any
equivalents thereof, now known or future-developed, and thus such
description should not be considered limiting as any embodiments of
the present invention. It will be understood that "zone" and "area"
can refer to a two- or three-dimensional space (x, y, z), without
limitation to a two-dimensional (x, y) plane. It will be understood
that all measurements described herein can be metric or non-metric
units.
SPECIFICS OF THE INVENTION
[0070] FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic diagram of a preferred
embodiment of the present invention. Object 50 is shown in FIG. 1
with digital artifact 100, game 101, participant client device 102,
non-predetermined location 104, predetermined location 105, out of
bounds area 130, boundary 132, client application 142, computing
device 146, proximity detector 150, proximity reach 152, proximity
location 156, set of locations 174, mobile device 176, identifier
180, and asset 182.
[0071] Object 50 can be in game 101. Object 50 can be digital
artifact 100. Object 50 can be participant client device 102. In an
embodiment, object 50 can be digital artifact 100 and a second
object 50 can be digital artifact 100. In an embodiment, object 50
can be digital artifact 100 and a second object 50 can be
participant client device 102. In most preferred embodiments,
objects 50 can be many digital artifacts 100. Object 50 can have a
one-to-one or one-to-many correspondence with digital artifacts 100
and participant client devices 102. Object 50 can be an
instantiated in memory on server 140. Object 50 can be any item in
game 101. In most preferred embodiments, object 50 can have a
location.
[0072] Digital artifact 100 can be associated with an at least one
non-predetermined location 104. In most preferred embodiments,
digital artifact 100 can have a GPS location with longitude and
latitude. Digital artifact can be placed 508 at non-predetermined
location 104 by a first participant client device 102 and obtained
by a second participant client device 102. Digital artifact 100 can
have identifier 180 and asset 182 associated therewith. Digital
artifact 100 can be an object having a location. Digital artifact
100 can have, without limitation, any of the following data 144:
message, text, comment, video, audio, image, binary data, xml,
blob, clob, application data, pdf, word document, excel document,
file, social networking connection, URL, or any combination or
equivalent thereof. In a possible embodiment, digital artifact 100
can be released anywhere in the world 101. In many preferred
embodiments, locations where digital artifact 100 can be released
is limited. In a possible embodiment, specific locations can be
dynamically set by participant client device 102. In a typical
scavenger hunt, there is a predetermined path which goes from point
A to point B to point C. In a possible embodiment, a subset of
possible points that are not predetermined can be used. Those
points can correspond to set of physical locations. Locations can
be set by latitude and longitude. Digital artifact 100 can be in an
evolution game, such as genetic material 304. Digital artifact 100
can be any type of object represented in the real world. In some
preferred embodiments, digital artifact 100 can be a trading card.
Digital artifact 100 can be capable of being accessed on computing
device 146; in most preferred embodiments, computing device 146 can
have a GPS receiver or other means for deriving a location such as
triangulation or IP address. In a preferred embodiment, based on
direction 170 and non-predetermined location 104 of participant
client device 102, client application 142 via locator 414 can
indicate where participant client device 102 needs to go to locate
digital artifact 100. In a possible embodiment, digital artifact
100 can be activated or deactivated. Activation can set the digital
artifact as within game 101 or in round 500. Deactivation can set
the digital artifact as being inappropriate or in some other way
not acceptable by the system administrator. One of ordinary skill
in the pertinent art would understand how to incorporate digital
artifact 100 into the present invention based on the teachings of
this specification. In various embodiments, digital artifact 100
can be participant client device 102, card 200 (FIG. 2), creature
302 (FIG. 3), genetic material 304, token 400 (FIG. 4), or primary
token 400A. In some preferred embodiments, digital artifact 100 can
be viewed from non-predetermined location 104 of participant client
device 102 having tilt 172.
[0073] Game 101 can run on server 140. Game 101 can have objects
therein, such as digital artifact 100, participant client device
102, or any element described in this specification. In most
preferred embodiments, game 101 can run on server 140 and client
application 142, and be accessed via participant client device 102.
There can be multiple participant client devices 102. There can be
"n" number of participant client devices 102 at a given time (for
example, FIGS. 15B and 15 C).
[0074] Participant client device 102 can be an object in game 101.
Participant client device 102 can facilitate user interaction in
game 101. Participant client device 102 can operate on computing
device 146 or mobile device 176. In most preferred embodiments,
participant client device 102 can obtain 504, release 506, locate
510, and/or alter 512 digital artifact 100. In some embodiments
with creature 302, participant client device 102 can also absorb,
spawn, mate, aggregate genetic material 304, genetically design, or
otherwise interact with digital artifact 100. In an embodiment,
participant client device 102 can be first participant client
device 102 and picked up by second participant client 102. In a
possible embodiment, participant client device 102 can be
restricted from interacting with digital artifact 100. In a
possible embodiment, participant client device 102 can associate
one or more other participant client devices 102 in a user profile.
In most preferred embodiments, participant client device 102 can
have proximity reach 152 where digital artifact 100 can be within
proximity reach 152.
[0075] Non-predetermined location 104 can be any location in the
world. Non-predetermined location 104 can have a latitude and
longitude. Non-predetermined location 104 can be associated with
digital artifact 100. Non-predetermined location 104 can be
user-defined location 1114 (FIG. 12). In an embodiment, participant
client device 102 can define the non-predetermined location 104 by
GPS location. A benefit of non-predetermined location 104 is in
providing flexible game play. For example, In an embodiment, game
101 can thus commence, develop, and/or end with any
non-predetermined location 104. Further, In an embodiment, digital
artifact 100 can be obtained and released in any non-predetermined
location 104. Thus, a further benefit of non-predetermined location
104 is to provide a degree of unpredictability which can generate
higher interest levels and more repeat participation.
[0076] Predetermined location 105 can have characteristics of
non-predetermined location 104 but instead, In an embodiment,
predetermined location 105 can be pre-populated in server 140.
Predetermined location 105 can be a specific set of locations
within set of locations 174. Having predetermined locations 105
does not preclude having non-predetermined locations 104, and
vice-versa.
[0077] Out of bounds area 130 can be defined by points. Although
participant client device 102 can go into out of bounds area 130,
participant client device 102 can be restricted from releasing
digital artifact 100 in out of bounds area 130. A benefit of out of
bounds area 130 is to reduce frustration with game 101. In most
preferred embodiments, out of bounds area 130 limits the range of
non-predetermined locations 104. In an embodiment, out of bounds
area 130 and set of locations 174 can both limit the range of
non-predetermined locations. Thus, a benefit can be to enhance user
experience. Further, in some preferred embodiments, some
predetermined locations 105
[0078] Boundary 132 can be coordinates that define a space. In a
possible embodiment, points can correspond with a commercial
location. In a possible embodiment, digital artifact 100 can only
be released at an "n" number of non-predetermined locations 104,
and participant client device 102 can be limited to only drop at
non-predetermined locations 104 in set of locations 174, or within
a preset radius 154 of any one of those locations.
[0079] Server 140 can be accessible via the Internet or using any
data communications protocol. A non-limiting illustration is shown
in FIG. 9. Server 140 can calculate point information, GPS
information, radius, radar, current locations of participant client
devices 102, and any aspects of game 101 other than
non-predetermined locations 104 or user-defined locations 1114.
User-defined location 1114 can be set by an administrator on server
140 in most preferred embodiments, rather than by a
non-administrator. Server 140 can be used to store the
non-predetermined locations 104 or user-defined locations, any
association or interactions thereof. Server 140 can provide
information at an accessible website, display the information on
mobile device 176, or relay to participant client devices 102 using
push or pull technology.
[0080] Request 141 can occur between server 140 and client 142.
Request 141 can have data 144. Request 141 can be made, by way of
non-limiting illustration, via TCP, IP, IPv6, http, https, ftp,
socks, over any port, point-to-point tunneling, virtual private
network, peer-to-peer, or any proprietary protocol. Server 140 can
be a computer running an operating system, whether a cluster,
cloud, server farm, node in a network, or distributed network.
Server 140 can initiate or receive web service calls from client
application 142.
[0081] Client application 142 can have a user interface to create
digital artifact 100. Client application 142 can be any computing
device 146. Some non-limiting illustrations are shown in FIGS. 1,
9, and 10. In an embodiment, it is unnecessary to use client
application 142 to allow data 144 and information from other
sources to be used. This can provide flexibility by allowing other
forms of data and information from sources external to game 101,
thus enriching user experience. In a possible embodiment, creature
302 can be created in client application 142. Further, when genetic
material 304 is released, action information can then be sent to
server 140 via a web service call. Client application 142 can
provide tools, data 144, or information in data 144 to help locate
something. Some non-limiting examples can be clues, arrows, textual
clues, highlighted path, map, text-based clues or riddles, images,
video, audio or any other objects that correspond to the real
world. In most preferred embodiments, client application 142
determines physical location. In a preferred embodiment, client
application 142 can be on mobile device 176 having a GPS receiver.
Client application 142 can communicate with server 140. Client
application 142 can makes web service calls to server 140. Client
application 142 can thereby update current location with the server
140. In most preferred embodiments, computing device 146 can be
mobile device 176. In some embodiments where GPS receiver is not
present, client application 142 can get location information from
mobile device 176 by cell phone tower triangulation, or other
non-GPS location information.
[0082] Computing device 146 can be any device with an operating
system. Computing device 146 can be mobile device 176. In most
preferred embodiments, computing device 146 benefits users by
allowing them to participate in game 101. In an embodiment,
computing device 146 can be used by a remote administrator, power
user, or super user that can monitor whatever a user is doing via
participant client device 102.
[0083] Proximity detector 150 can have proximity reach 152. In a
preferred embodiment, proximity detector 150 can be a radar that
displays objects and can track objects in relative proximity to a
given proximity location 156 or non-predetermined location 104. In
a preferred embodiment, proximity detector 150 can alert
participant client device 102 in conjunction with locator 414 (FIG.
4B). In a preferred embodiment, proximity detector 150 can locate
objects and display objects on computing device 146. Proximity
detector 150 can be a user interface tool in many preferred
embodiments. In an embodiment, proximity detector can coincide with
accuracy assignment 1100 of participant client device 102.
[0084] Proximity reach 152 can be determined by radius 154. In an
embodiment, proximity reach 152 can be roughly around digital
imprint 100, participant client device 102, non-predetermined
location 104, predetermined location 105, proximity location 156,
card 200, area 300, creature 302, genetic material 304, token 400.
In a preferred embodiment, proximity reach can be around
participant client device 102. Proximity reach 152 can have any
measurement in metric or non-metric units. In some preferred
embodiments, proximity reach 152 can be measured by
latitude-longitude increments, latitude-longitude-altitude
increments, latitude-longitude-direction increments,
latitude-longitude-altitude-direction increments, or any
combination thereof. For example, proximity reach 152 can be five
feet. A benefit of proximity reach 152 is to enhance a level of
imprecision so that when trying to obtain 504 digital artifact 100,
participant client device 102 need not precisely match exactly the
coordinates of digital artifact 100. In an embodiment, there can be
a limitation of proximity reach 152 by direction 170; thus,
proximity reach 152 may require participant client device 102 to
face a certain direction. A benefit of proximity reach 152, or
additionally, requiring direction 170 can be to ensure that a
person sees certain things, places, or persons near a physical
location (by way of non-limiting example, advertisements) around
the time of interacting with digital artifact 100. However,
direction 170 is not a prerequisite to realizing this benefit. In
most preferred embodiments, proximity reach can be lesser in scope
than proximity detector 150.
[0085] Radius 154 (r) can be a numeric value. Radius 154 can affect
proximity reach 152. In embodiments with accuracy assignment 1100,
or zones 1104, 1106, or 1200, radius 154 can be used to calculate
the given coverage, which can help determine whether there is
juxtaposition of proximity zones 1300 (FIGS. 11-18). Radius 154 can
be used to calculate any zone or area, although 150, 152, 1100,
1104, 1106, and 1200 (FIG. 12). Radius 154 can have a round or
non-round shape. Some non-limiting examples can include a bounding
box, ellipse, bounded area, triangle, star, hexagon, pentagon,
octagon, n-sided shape, geometric bounding area, irregular shape,
or any form having two or more points, circle, sphere, round or
non-round (FIG. 15C). In an embodiment, radius 154 or accuracy
assignment 1100 can be calculated by numeric values. Diameter can
be twice radius 154. In circular embodiments, radius can be
substantially equal to the circumference divided by 2.pi.r. Area
can be calculated by A=.pi.r.sup.2. The space for a sphere can be
calculated by
S = 4 3 .pi. r 3 . ##EQU00001##
[0086] Proximity location 156 can be determined by latitude 158 and
longitude 160. Proximity location 156 can be based on the location
of digital artifact 100 or participant client device 102 at an
unknown time and place. Proximity location 156 can be
non-predetermined.
[0087] Latitude 158 and longitude 160 can be non-predetermined. In
possible embodiments, latitude 158 and longitude 160 can be
ascertainable by GPS coordinates at a given time, tower
triangulation, or program interfaces, regardless of the type of
operating system.
[0088] First location 162 and second location 164 can be
predetermined or non-predetermined locations. Participant client
device 102 can obtain 504 digital artifact 100 at first location
162 at an unknown time. Participant client device 102 can later
release digital artifact 100 at second location 164. Participant
client device 102 can be first user 166 that originally interacted
with or provided digital artifact 100. Also, participant client
device 102 can be second user 168 that later interacts with digital
artifact 100.
[0089] Direction 170 can be established by mobile device 176 by
pointing it in a given direction or by ascertaining its movement in
time from a first point to a second point. A benefit of direction
170 can be to provide movement information in relation to objects
in game 101, whether digital artifact 100 or other objects.
[0090] Tilt 172 can provide more detailed orientation in relation
to other aspects of game 101. Tilt 172 can be established by a
fluxgate compass. In an embodiment, tilt 172 can have an
accelerometer or information thereof. Tilt 172 can provide
horizontal, vertical, or angle orientation information. In a
possible embodiment, together with direction 170, tilt 172 can
allow game 101 to provide specific views customized to a given
direction 170 and tilt 172 of participant client device 102. Server
140 or client 142 can calculate perspective information and
communicate between them.
[0091] Set of locations 174 can be a list of locations. Set of
locations 174 can have first location 162. In some preferred
embodiments, first location 162 can be within set of locations 174
setting forth a list of locations, retail or non-retail, commercial
or non-commercial, while second location 164 can be the same set of
locations 174 or a different list of locations. By way of
non-limiting illustration, first location 162 can be limited to
select fast-food restaurant locations in a given area where digital
artifact 100 can be picked up or released. A benefit of set of
locations 174 can be to minimize risk of releasing digital artifact
100 in a location that is rarely visited or is not likely to be
visited by other participants (by way of non-limiting illustration,
a location within a large body of water). This limits possible
release locations, although the actual location can still be
non-predetermined since it can be unknown exactly where within set
of locations 174 digital artifact 100 will be released. By
preventing such frustration, the experience is thereby enhanced.
Set of locations 174 can limit the latitude and longitude where
participant client device 102 can drop digital artifact 100. In an
embodiment, set of locations 174 can have predetermined location
105. In an embodiment, set of locations 174 can have
non-predetermined location 104. First location 162 and second
location 164 can be predetermined locations 104 or
non-predetermined locations 104; in some preferred embodiments,
locations within set of locations 174 can have predetermined
locations 105 and non-predetermined locations 104. Set of locations
174 can have a subset of locations. In embodiments where first
location 162 is not predetermined, set of locations 174 can also be
non-predetermined in whole or in part. Set of locations 174 can
have any number and combination of predetermined or
non-predetermined locations. By having some predetermined locations
and non-predetermined locations, set of locations 174 can provide
more interesting interaction while balancing the need for directed
commercial activity. Set of locations 174 can have multiple digital
artifacts 100, multiple genetic material 304, or multiple tokens
400. Set of locations 174 can be defined by participant client
device 102 or by game 101. Set of locations 174 can have a
non-predetermined path 410.
[0092] Mobile device 176 can be any portable device with an
operating system. In some preferred embodiments, mobile device 176
can have a fluxgate compass, accelerometer, GPS receiver, operating
system, wireless network adapter, and user interface.
[0093] User profile 178 can be any information associated with
participant client device 102, first participant client device 102,
second participant client device 102, or any particular user. User
profile 178 can be stored on server 140 or computing device 146.
Users can be socially networked, including but not limited to
participant client devices 102. The social networking can occur at
any time. In some preferred embodiments, associations between users
can occur when in proximity reach 152. User profile 178 can display
information about participant client device 102, including but not
limited to current location, path, clues about token 400, or other
information.
[0094] Identifier 180 can be any designation, whether number,
value, key, binary data, string, blob, clob, number, name, or
otherwise, unique or non-unique. In most preferred embodiments,
identifier 180 is a unique number associated with digital artifact
100. Identifier 180 can help distinguish digital imprint 100. In an
embodiment, identifier 180 can use non-predetermined location 104,
predetermined location 105, and a timestamp. Identifier 180 can be
stored on server 140. Identifier 180 can also be stored on client
application 142.
[0095] Asset 182 can be any object, digital or non-digital,
associated with digital artifact 100. In many preferred
embodiments, asset 182 can be a prize, whether monetary amount,
prize, debt, award, coupon, voucher, credit, or other incentive. In
an embodiment, asset 182 can be any element disclosed in this
specification. In most preferred embodiments, digital artifact is
associated with asset 182. Asset 182 can have an asset identifier.
Asset 182 can be associated with more than one digital artifact
100, and vice versa, Asset 182 can be stored on server 140. Asset
182 can also be stored on client application 142.
[0096] FIG. 2 illustrates a possible embodiment of the present
invention involving a trading card game. Card 200 is shown in FIG.
2 with limited number of drops 202, digital artifact 100,
participant client device 102, non-predetermined location 104,
predetermined location 105, boundary 130, and set of locations
174.
[0097] Card 200 can be digital artifact 100. Card 200 can have
characteristics of a trading card. Card 200 can have any data 144,
textual data, display information, formatting information,
metadata, URLs, images, audio, video, html, xml, or other
information, and in any combination. In a possible embodiments
where digital artifact 100 is a card, participant client device 102
can trade card 200, buy or sell card 200, create card 200, alter
152 card 200, delete card 200, activate card 200, add comments to
card 200, release 506 card 200, obtain 504 other participants'
cards, or provide feedback.
[0098] Limited number of drops 202 can be a value limiting the
number of times digital artifact 100 can be released. In an
embodiment, participant client device 102 can be limited to
releasing digital artifact 100 limited number of drops 202. By way
of non-limiting illustration, game 101 can start with ten drops;
thus, digital artifact 100 can only be released 504 in ten
locations 104 or 105. In a possible embodiment, once limited number
of releases 202 is triggered, fee 416 can be required to purchase
more releases 504 or to recall a released digital artifact 100,
here being card 200, by removing it from the location 104 or 105
where it was released 504. In a preferred embodiment, other
participant client devices 102 can obtain 504 digital artifact 100
from any of the release locations an unlimited number of times. In
a preferred embodiment, there can be a limit as to the number of
cards 200 that can be obtained 504. In addition, once limited
number of drops 202 is triggered, participant client device 102 can
release another digital artifact 100, such as card 200, which was
collected at an earlier non-predetermined location 104. This can
add to the number of locations that card 200 can be obtained 504
without effecting the released 506 cards 200 available to the
original card creator. This can remove card 200 from a
participant's collection and thus free up a slot for them to
collect another card 200. In an embodiment, limited number of drops
202 can be stored on server 140 or with client application 142, or
both.
[0099] A method can comprise obtaining card 200, releasing card 200
in a non-predetermined location 104, and obtaining card 200 in the
non-predetermined location. A method can comprise trading card 200
in a non-predetermined location where first participant 102 is in
proximity with second participant 102.
[0100] FIG. 3 illustrates a possible embodiment of the present
invention involving an evolution game. Area 300 is shown in FIG. 3
with creature 302, mingling 303, genetic material 304, attribute
306, digital artifact 100, game 101, participant client device 102,
non-predetermined location 104, predetermined location 105, and set
of locations 174.
[0101] Area 300 can have a digital representation of a fictional
genetic material 304. In an embodiment, for example in evolution
game embodiments, the present invention can provide for mingling
303 of digital artifacts in area 300. Participant client device 102
can go to area 300 by longitude and latitude and leave a digital
artifact 100, token 400 or 400A. Area 300 need not be a predefined
location. Area 300 can be defined as a space by a group of points
having latitude and longitude. In an embodiment, area 300 can
change over time.
[0102] Creature 302 can be created in game 101. In most preferred
embodiments, participant client device 102 can control appearance
of creature 302. Creature 302 can have one or more attributes 306.
Creature 302 can be associated with genetic material 304. Each
creature 302 in game 101 can have genetic material 304 that can be
left in a location. In some preferred embodiments, creature 302 can
have one or more images depicting an organic or non-organic being
at any given stage of maturity, at or following conception. In most
preferred embodiments, creature 302 can have a new appearance after
genetic material 304 of first creature 302 is mingled 303 with
second genetic material 304.
[0103] Mingling 303 can be automatically provided by game 101 of
genetic material 304. In some preferred embodiments, mingling 303
can occur at area 300, whether by entering, passing through, or
being proximate to area 300. Digital artifact 100 can be associated
with creature 302. Further, digital artifact 100 can be genetic
material 304 of first creature 302. Genetic material 304 can
facilitate interaction with second creature 302 having second
genetic material 304. In most preferred embodiments where game 101
is an evolution game, participant client device 102 can interact
with genetic material 304. For example, participant client device
102 may obtain 504 genetic material 304 or be in proximity with
genetic material 304 via juxtaposition of proximity zones 1300,
thereby altering 512 their creature 302 having third genetic
material 304. In a possible embodiment, images, graphics and
animations corresponding to each successive creature can be
selectively or randomly generated, or allow a user to control in
part the use and design of third creature 302. In some preferred
embodiments, to speed up game play, third creature 302 with
attributes 306 and respective values thereof can be automatically
generated by an administrator-selected, predetermined or
non-predetermined, or created at random.
[0104] Genetic material 304 can be digital artifact 100.
Participant client device 102 can leave genetic material 304 in
area 300. In a possible embodiment, genetic material 304 can be an
image representation of DNA which can be subject to mingling 303 at
area 300 or in proximity with another creature 302. An at least one
attribute 306 can be an at least one genetic material 304. In a
preferred embodiment, participant client device 102 can have
proximity reach 152 where genetic material 304 can be released or
obtained.
[0105] Attribute 306 can be associated with creature 302. In a
possible embodiment, unique parameters can be established
representing attributes 306 of creature 302. In a possible
embodiment, each can have range of values from 0-255 (preferably
hex). In a possible embodiment, some non-limiting examples of
attribute 306 can include: body size, body aspect shape, secondary
body aspect shape, primary color, secondary color, number of eyes,
shape of eyes, color of eyes, size of eyes, location of eyes,
number of ears, shape of ears, size of ears, location of ears,
amount of hair, length of hair, color of hair, style of hair,
location of hair, number of limbs, location of limbs, length of
limbs, number of limbs, shape of limbs, number of antennae, length
of antennae, shape of antennae, location of antennae, shape of
mouth, size of mouth, number of mouths, location of mouths, number
of teeth, shape of teeth, location of teeth, shape of nose, size of
nose, color of nose, number of noses, location of noses. Thus, if
there are forty possible attributes 306, the possible combinations
are finite and all variations can be prebuilt or dynamically built
into a manageable set with corresponding graphics, video, audio,
text, attribute augmentation, behavioral characteristics, and
animation. If gradations are calculated simply by the number of
attributes to the power of the number of attribute values, in this
particular example, 40.sup.256, then it is possible to ascertain
the exact number of possibilities. In a preferred embodiment,
creature 302 can be mingled 303 with genetic material 304 of
another creature 302. Time can be associated with attribute 306. In
a preferred embodiment, an at least one attribute 306 can be
genetic material 304 or a representation thereof.
[0106] FIG. 4 illustrates a possible embodiment of the present
invention involving a scavenger hunt. Token 400 is shown in FIG. 4
with primary token 400A, winnings 406, value 408, non-predetermined
path 410, time limit 412, locator 414, fee 416, and game 101.
[0107] Game 101, in a possible embodiment, can be a scavenger hunt.
In a possible embodiment, commercial establishments can be
involved. Further, in a possible embodiment, a release site
location can only be one of a retail company's physical locations
within set of locations 174 and thus digital artifact 100 can be
limited so that it cannot be released anywhere on earth.
[0108] Token 400 can be displayed on computing device 146 or mobile
device 176. Token 400 can be digital artifact 100. In an
embodiment, digital artifact 100 can have token 400. In a possible
embodiment, token 400 can represent a prize. In a possible
embodiment, game 101 can be a scavenger hunt and participant client
device 102 can obtain token 400. Token 400 can give participant
client device 102 the right to obtain another token 400 in another
scavenger location 104 or 105. In a possible embodiment, token 400
can be at a local coffee retailer. A user can then be required go
to a retailer where token 400 can be located. Participant client
device 102 can go to the location and obtain token 400 when
locations of participant client device 102 and token 400 roughly
match. Participant client device 102 can have proximity reach 152
where token 400 can be within reach. Participant client device 102
can get the prize and then can drop token 400 at another location.
In a possible embodiment, token 400 starts at the intersection of
5.sup.th and Main. The first ten participant client devices 102
that go to 5.sup.th and Main can pick up token 400. Further, those
ten participant client devices 102 can drop the token 400 in ten
new locations, a new location for each of them. After ten drop or
after time elapse (whichever comes first), after a time elapse to
drop a particular instance of token 400, a token 400 can be
activated. That activated token 400 can be designated the primary
token 400A. To facilitate user interaction, communications between
participant client devices 102 can be initiated and received. In
some preferred embodiments, participant client devices 102 can tell
other participant client devices 102 where to pick up token
400.
[0109] Primary token 400A can be activated in game 101, and can
represent the main prize. Primary token 400A can be selected from
any of tokens 400. By way of non-limiting illustration, there can
be a group of participant clients where ten participant client
devices 102 can obtain token 400 where game 101 allows more than
one participant client device 102 to pick up token 400. Then, the
participating participant client devices 102 can release token 400
in ten new locations. Further, the other nine tokens 400 which were
not changed to primary token 400A can have minor prizes. In a
possible embodiment, primary token 400A can be randomly or
selectively activated by the system from an earlier picked up token
400. Having primary token 400A can help maintain fair play by
reducing the chance that participant client devices 102 monopolize
token 400 or token 400A to keep the winnings. To reduce the chances
of cheating, where there are multiple releases of token 400, no
participant client knows the next location of the next primary
token 400A. Similarly, after participant client devices 102 release
their respective tokens 400 in various locations, those which are
not the primary token can be deactivated or a subset of tokens can
be activated as one or more secondary prizes. For example, the next
primary token 400A can be randomly selected as the one released at
Santa Monica Blvd and Wilshire. Primary token 400A can then be
obtained and released, and subsequent or simultaneous activation of
at least one primary token 400A can be randomly selected after it
has been released, for example, at Ocean Park Blvd. and Lincoln
Blvd. in the city of Santa Monica. This example is
non-limiting.
[0110] Winnings 406 can be an amount of money, one or more prizes,
information, or any combination thereof. Winnings 406, as the pot
grows, can accumulate in multiple or successive rounds 500.
[0111] Value 408 can be associated with token 400 or digital
artifact 100. In a preferred embodiment, value 408 can be a money
value in any currency or representative of a physical or virtual
prize such as merchandise, credits to purchase on a web site (e.g.,
iTunes gift card), or points awarded. In a possible embodiment,
value 408 can be binary, or any complex or primitive data type
capable of mathematical calculation, whether numeric, decimal,
float, double, long, int, or money value in any currency. In a
possible embodiment, each time token 400 can be released, a new
round 500 can begin. If participant client device 102 wishes to
participate in the new round 500, a fee 416 can be charged to
participant client device 102. An accumulation of winnings 406 can
be collected from all or a portion of fee 416 or charged separately
to participant client device 102. For example, an additional
ninety-nine cents can be accumulated in winnings 406 until after a
number of rounds there can be an accumulated amount in treasure.
Further, the digital artifact 100 can be released somewhere else, a
second non-predetermined location 104 which can be associated with
another instance of new round 500, which can iterate or
multiply.
[0112] Non-predetermined path 410 can be a sequence of locations.
Non-predetermined path 410 can be user-defined or generated by the
system, selectively or randomly. Unlike treasure hunts in the
related art, this allows flexibility and customization to the
localized geographies of a given physical environment. Thus, in a
possible embodiment, game 101 can adapt to a local neighborhood and
shopping center.
[0113] Time limit 412 can provide a limit for releasing token 400.
In an embodiment, time limit 412 can limit the length of time for
participant 102 to release token 400, the length of round 500 or
the length of time for game 101 as an overall time limit 412.
[0114] Locator 414 (shown in FIG. 4B) can provide assistance to
locate token 400. Locator 414 can be one or more tools with user
interfaces in computing device 146. Locator 414 can display
proximity detector 150. Locator 414 can also display proximity
reach 152. Locator 414 can be a radar. Message 506 can be provided
to participant client device 102. Message 506 can be any form of
expression, whether riddle, clue, image, audio, video, text or
non-text or any combination thereof. Message can benefit
participant client device 102 to help figure out the location of
token 400. In a preferred embodiment, token 400 can be visible only
when participant client device 102 is within physical proximity
reach 152 of token 400. In a preferred embodiment, digital artifact
100 can be set in a random location. Client application 142 can
provide a locator 414 as a map with proximity reach 200 or as a
periodic radar ping.
[0115] Fee 416 can be any amount charged to participant client
device 102. Fee 416 can be associated with an account of
participant client device 102. Reduced fee 416 can be associated
with token 400 or 400A.
[0116] In a possible embodiment, set of locations 174 can restrict
game 101 by having a user-defined scavenger hunt. Scavenger hunt
game 101 can have a user-defined starting point, first location
162. A clue can be provided, such as directional information,
riddles, video, images, words, symbols, letters, directions,
arrows, pointers, hand symbols, cursors, blinking indicators,
coordinates, proximate location, area, or other indicators, direct
or indirect, to locate the token 400.
[0117] In a possible embodiment, the first person can pick up the
token 400. Further, participant client devices 102 can obtain token
400 until a maximum number B. After the first B participant client
devices 102 obtain token 400, participant client device 102 can
place token 400 in a new location, and the cycle can repeat.
[0118] In a possible embodiment, game 101 can randomly select one
or more of the B tokens 400 that have been placed by participant
client devices 102 to begin the next round 500. Time limit 412 can
be specified to facilitate game play and allowing for the game to
progress. For example, when first participant client device 102
picks up token 400, there can be a maximum time allowed C to place
the token 400 at a new location. If the maximum time allowed C is
exceeded then the game 101 could randomly place the token 400 at a
new location, or other users could be allowed to place the token. A
benefit of this approach is to ensure that the game play is not
hindered or delayed, and to prevent a participant from stopping the
round or game.
[0119] FIG. 5 illustrates a method diagram of a preferred
embodiment the present invention. Round 500 is shown in FIG. 5 with
waiting period 502, obtaining 504, releasing 506, placing 508,
locating 510, and altering 512.
[0120] Round 500 can begin an instance of game 101. Game 101 can
have one or more rounds 500. In a possible embodiment, game 101 can
be played on computing device 146. In most preferred embodiments,
game 101 can have mobile device 176 which communicates with server
140 via web service calls. In a preferred embodiment, game 101 can
be operable twenty-four hours per day, seven days per week. Game
101 can be geographically universal in scope, e.g., worldwide, or
limited to less than the world. FIG. 8 shows a possible embodiment
where game can be worldwide and boundaries 130 can limit various
locations while still leaving significant possible locations for
non-predetermined locations 104. While game 101 operates, multiple
participant client devices 102 can play in round 500. Round 500 can
first begin when worldwide game begins operation. When the token
400 is picked up by one or more participants, another round 500 can
begin. Multiple rounds 500 can be running simultaneously, for
example, in UK and in the United States. Round 500 can have a time
limit. In a possible embodiment, time limit 412 for an instance of
round 500 can be a preset amount of time. An administrator can set
overall time limit 412. In a preferred embodiment, if no one wins,
the prize can roll over to the next round 500 so that the prize
accumulates. Where the prize is money, the amount can accumulate in
larger amounts until a winner obtains the token 400. In a possible
embodiment, five instances of game 101 can be concurrently running
with an ever-growing pot of winnings. In another possible
embodiment, game 101 can have prizes. Game 101 is not limited to
the embodiments described herein and can have many variations. Game
101 can have a first non-predetermined location and a second
non-predetermined location having a second unknown longitude and a
second unknown latitude. Game 101 can allow participant client
device 102 to leave digital artifact 100 with digital information
that other participant client devices 102 can interact with. In an
embodiment, round 500 can be started or concluded upon obtaining
digital artifact 100.
[0121] Waiting period 502 can occur before round 500. In a possible
embodiment, waiting period 502 between successive rounds 500, for
example, 24 hours. With waiting period 502, time can be provided
between finding token 400 and when token 400 is placed in second
non-predetermined location 104. If no one finds token 400 and no
one moves token 400, then overall time limit 412 can expire; at
such expiration, the system can randomly select a new location for
token 400 and either continue or start a new round 500.
[0122] Some non-limiting methods for interacting with digital
artifact 100 are described below in obtaining 504, releasing 506,
placing 508, locating 510, and altering 512. As noted in this
specification, digital artifact can be card 200, creature 302,
token 400, or otherwise; therefore, such methods can apply, with
variation. These methods can be supported structurally, by way of
non-limiting illustration, by computing device 146 and server 140
wherein communication to server 140 can occur at the time such
method is performed. The present invention is not limited to any
particular brand or SDK or operating system. One of ordinary skill
in the pertinent art would know how to use a SDK that incorporates
the elements of the present invention including the methods
described herein.
[0123] Obtaining 504 can be performed on digital artifact 100.
Digital artifact 100 can become associated with participant client
device 102 that obtains 504 given digital artifact 100. In an
embodiment, digital artifact 100 can become disassociated with a
prior participant client that released 506 the instant digital
artifact 100. By obtaining 504 digital artifact 100, this can
facilitate relocating of digital artifact 100. In some preferred
embodiments, obtaining 504 can occur within set of locations 174
Obtaining 504 can occur when participant client device 102 is
within proximity of digital artifact 100. In most preferred
embodiments, obtaining 504 occurs only when proximity reach 152 of
participant client device 102 includes the location of digital
artifact 100. Identifier of digital artifact 100, non-predetermined
location 104, and action of obtaining 504 can then be sent to
server 140. One of ordinary skill in the art would know how to
incorporate obtaining 504 in the present invention, as well as
releasing 506, placing 508, and altering 512. By way of
non-limiting illustration, in the Apple iphone SDK there are
libraries and methods for selecting an image, obtaining a location,
and making web service calls. In an embodiment, obtaining 504 can
occur with respect to title or ownership of digital artifact 100
without having possessory movement to relocate digital artifact
until later coming into proximity with digital artifact 100 to
obtain 504 in order to relocate it by subsequently releasing 506.
In a possible embodiment, obtaining can include first location 162
of digital artifact 100.
[0124] Releasing 506 can be performed on digital artifact 100.
Digital artifact 100 can become disassociated with movement of
participant client device 102 having performed releasing 506. In an
embodiment, digital artifact 100 can be released by participant
client device 102 in non-predetermined location 104 or
predetermined location 105. In most preferred embodiments,
releasing 506 can occur in a new non-predetermined location 104
after obtaining 504 in a prior location. In most preferred
embodiments, a subsequent participant 102 can re-release 506 in a
new non-predetermined location 104, or at a location within set of
locations 174. In most preferred embodiments, participant client
device 102 after having performed releasing 506 cannot move digital
artifact 100 to a new location. In a preferred embodiment,
releasing is done by issuing a command on computing device 146. In
an embodiment, releasing can include placing 508. In a possible
embodiment, releasing can include parameters for non-predetermined
location 104 (including latitude 158 and longitude 160) and digital
artifact 100. The latitude 158 and longitude 160 can correspond to
second location 164. By way of non-limiting illustration, release
506 can be performed on computing device 146 or mobile device 176,
such as Apple iphone as client 142 (FIG. 19).
TABLE-US-00001 // START Load application Initialize LocationManager
Set accuracy to BEST Set delegate LocationManager Delegate called
curLocation=returned position LocationManager Delegate called If
returned position does not equal curLocation and accuracy is
improved then curLocation=returned position Call web service method
DropDigitalArtifact(userID, deviceID, curLocation, accuracy) If
successful return from web service Display message "Artifact Drop
Successful" Else Display message "Artifact Drop Failed" // END
Further, by way of non-limiting illustration, the following can
facilitate releasing 506 of digital artifact 100 via server 140
(FIG. 19).
TABLE-US-00002 // START DropDigitalArtifact(curLocation) called
Insert into digitalArtifacts (userID, deviceID, curLocation,
accuracy) Return success/fail // END
[0125] Placing 508 can be performed, i.e., to place digital
artifact 100 at a location. Placing 508 can occur in
non-predetermined location 104 or predetermined location 105. The
location of digital artifact 100 can be defined randomly or
selectively by game 101. In an embodiment, initial placing 508 of
digital artifact 100 can be done randomly at the beginning of game
101 or round 500. In an embodiment, placing 508 can be done
randomly or in combination with predetermined location 105 within
set of locations 174. Placing 508 can be performed on digital
artifact 100 after it is created, obtained, altered, or
released.
[0126] Locating 510 can be performed, i.e., to locate digital
artifact 100. This can include searching with or without assistance
of client application 142. Locating 510 can be done with or without
proximity detector 150 or proximity reach 152. Locate 510 can be
performed on computing device 146, by way of non-limiting
illustration, on Apple iPhone to perform locating 510:
TABLE-US-00003 // START Load application Initialize
CLLocationManager Set accuracy to BEST Set delegate
CLLocationManager Delegate called curLocation=returned position
CLLocationManager Delegate called If returned position does not
equal curLocation and accuracy is improved then
curLocation=returned position Call web service method
LocateDigitalArtifact(curLocation, accuracy) Display artifacts
returned from web service // END
Further, by way of non-limiting illustration, server 140 can allow
locating 510 as follows:
TABLE-US-00004 // START LocateDigitalArtifact(curLocation,
accuracy) called proximity=accuracy daProximity=accuracy of
digitalArtifact Select * from digitalArtifacts where daProximity of
artifactLocation in proximity of curLocation Return recordset //
END
[0127] Altering 512 of digital artifact 100 can be performed. In
most preferred embodiments, alteration 512 can be creating,
editing, adding to, publishing, providing feedback, annotating,
nudging, moving, deleting, or updating. Alteration 512 can be
performed on any asset or object in game 101. Alteration can be
combining more than one digital artifact 100. Combining can occur
where one or more digital artifacts 100 are left in area 300 so
that they are concurrently present, or through the collection of
multiple digital artifacts 100 in multiple locations over the
course of the game 101. In a possible embodiment, ten participant
client devices 102 can pass through area 300 and leave digital
artifact 100 therein, and eleventh participant client device 102
having eleventh creature 302 can enter area 300. Then, eleventh
creature 302 can be altered 512 by the combination of all of the
other ten digital artifacts 100 in that area 300. Further, eleventh
participant client device 102 can leave an eleventh digital
artifact 100. In a preferred embodiment, digital artifact 100 can
be a digital representation of a form of genetic material 304.
There can be a "primordial soup" in a given area 300 where various
digital artifacts 100 are in different physical areas 300. In a
possible embodiment, if participant client device 102 goes to area
300, participant client device 102 can pick up digital artifact 100
or genetic material 304 and leave another digital artifact 100,
plus mingling 303 of all those who were there before. In a possible
embodiment, alteration 512 can be changing location of digital
artifact 100. The first participant client device 102 to the first
location 162 can obtain the token, while other participant client
devices 102 who get there later do not get to obtain the token. In
most preferred embodiments, participant client device 102 can
modify or add to information left for the user and associated with
the digital artifact; In an embodiment, digital artifact 100
itself. In some preferred embodiments, participant client device
102 having proper permissions may also redact or delete such
information. In a possible embodiment, modifying can include
editing a document and then releasing the document in a new
location.
[0128] FIG. 6 illustrates a possible embodiment of the present
invention. Digital artifact 100 is shown in FIG. 6 with game 101,
participant client device 102, non-predetermined location 104,
proximity detector 150, radius 154 applied to proximity detector
150, and proximity location 156.
[0129] FIG. 7 illustrates a possible embodiment of the present
invention. Digital artifact 100 is shown in FIG. 7 with game 101,
participant client device 102, non-predetermined location 104,
proximity detector 150, proximity reach 152, and radius 154.
[0130] FIG. 8 illustrates a possible embodiment of the present
invention. Game 101 is shown in FIG. 8 with out of bounds areas
130. Game 101 need not be worldwide, but in some embodiments it is
conceivable that releasing and obtaining digital artifacts 100 can
occur throughout the world.
[0131] FIG. 9 illustrates a possible embodiment of the present
invention. Server 140 is shown in FIG. 9 shows with client
application 142, with participant client device 102, computing
device 146, mobile device 176, user profile 178, obtaining 504,
releasing 506, placing 508, locating 510, and altering 512. In a
preferred embodiment, communication occurs via Internet.
[0132] FIG. 10 illustrates an interaction scheme of a possible
embodiment of the present invention. Server 140 is shown in FIG. 10
with client 142 including pseudo-code interfaces to conduct actions
such as obtaining 504, releasing 506, placing 508, locating 510,
and altering 512, as well as such actions involving digital
artifact 100, game 101, participant client device 102, latitude
158, longitude 160, direction 172, tilt 172, and round 500. The
present invention is not limited to this illustration.
[0133] FIG. 11 illustrates a proximity aspect of a possible
embodiment of the present invention. Accuracy assignment 1100 is
shown in FIG. 11, with list of proximate digital artifacts 1102,
accuracy assignment zone of digital artifact 1104, accuracy
assignment zone of searching device 1106, gap 1500, digital
artifact 100, participant client device 102, and non-predetermined
location 104.
[0134] Accuracy assignment 1100 can be in a unit of measurement or
string description in any axis. By way of non-limiting
illustration, the Apple iphone provides a "horizontal accuracy" in
meters. In a possible embodiment, location 104 or 105 and
associated accuracy assignment 1100 can be stored in a database on
server 140. In a preferred embodiment, digital artifact 100 can
have location as well as accuracy assignment 1100 from the
participant client device 102 that dropped digital artifact 100.
Accuracy assignment 1100 can be assigned to any object in game 101.
Accuracy assignment 1100 can affect the effectiveness of proximity
detector 150 or proximity reach 152. A benefit of accuracy
assignment 1100 is in providing dynamic adjustment depending on the
quality of the location capabilities of both 1. releasing
participant client device 102 of the digital artifact 100 and 2.
searching device 102. This can provide a more enjoyable experience,
because it generally reflects the original intent of both the
dropper and the searcher. Searching device 102 need not necessarily
release 506 the digital artifact 100. Another benefit of accuracy
assignment 1100 is that it levels the playing field for users of
lower-end or older devices 146 or 176 that may rely on less
accurate methods for determining location and higher-end or newer
devices 146 or 176 that may have sophisticated GPS positioning
capabilities for extremely accurate location determination. Hence,
accuracy assignment 1100 can allow old and new devices 146 or 176
to participate together by equalizing the technical limitations of
the older devices, whether limited by the device software or
hardware. FIG. 11 shows a non-overlapping range where participant
client device 102 and digital artifact 100. In such case, it is
possible that the device 102 does not detect digital artifact
100.
[0135] In a preferred embodiment, when a participant client device
102 attempts to locate 510 proximate digital artifacts 100, a
current location 104 or 105 as well as accuracy assignment 1100 for
participant client device 102 can be passed to server 140. This can
occur, by way of non-limiting example, by a web service call. In a
preferred embodiment, server 140, participant client device 102, or
client application 142 can search based on accuracy assignment 1100
of digital artifact 100. Accuracy assignment 1100 of digital
artifact 100 can be stored on server 140, as well as accuracy
assignment 1100 of the participant client device 102 requesting a
list of proximate digital artifacts 1102. In some preferred
embodiments, each search can be unique based on the accuracy
assignment 1100 of both digital artifact 100 and the participant
client device 102. By way of non-limiting example, Device P (102)
can have an accuracy assignment 1100 of 300 feet. If Device P (102)
can release 506 digital artifact 100 at point x:100, y:100. Device
Q (102) has an accuracy assignment 1100 of 30 feet. Device Q (102)
can then initiate locating 510 digital artifacts 100 at point x:75,
y:75. If a standard algorithm is used whereby a set radius helps
calculate accuracy assignment zone 1200 around Device Q of 10 feet,
then digital artifact 100 released by Device P would be missed
because of the lesser accuracy of Device P. For example, FIG. 11
shows non-overlapping zones, and FIG. 15 shows proximity gap 1500.
However, because the accuracy of both the releaser device 102 and
the searcher device 102 can be used, Device Q can find the digital
artifact 100 of Device P 102. Radius 154 can be based on the
individual accuracy assignment 1100 of the digital artifact 100
(1104) can be drawn, e.g., formed 2102. Further, radius 154 can be
based on the individual accuracy assignment 1100 of device 102, in
this case Device Q having zone 1106, can be drawn (e.g., formed
2104) substantially around device 102. The areas intersecting can
be considered "proximate." A possible embodiment is shown in
juxtaposition of proximity zones 1300 (FIG. 13). Further, by way of
non-limiting illustration, see FIGS. 11-18 with reference to some
possible embodiments.
[0136] List of proximate digital artifacts 1102 (FIG. 18) can have
any number of digital artifacts 100 in proximity with both digital
artifacts 100 and participant client device 102. List of proximate
digital artifacts 1102 can be sent from server 140 to participant
client device 102 upon request by participant client device
102.
[0137] Accuracy assignment zone of digital artifact 1104 can be
passed in real-time or stored on server 140 (FIG. 18). Accuracy
assignment zone of digital artifact 1104 can be a detectable zone
beyond the location of digital artifact 100. Accuracy assignment
zone of digital artifact 1104 can be set to a value that can be
used to calculate accuracy radius 1110, to find the detectable
zone. In some preferred embodiments, a detectable zone embodied by
accuracy assignment zone 1200 can be formed substantially around
the digital artifact. The zone around digital artifact 100 can be
based on its accuracy assignment zone 1200, which can be calculated
from its accuracy radius 1110. Accuracy assignment zone of digital
artifact 1104 can be accuracy assignment zone 1200.
[0138] Accuracy assignment zone of searching device 1106 can be
passed in real-time or stored on server 140 (FIG. 18). Accuracy
assignment zones 1200, 1104, or 1106 or can be searchable zones
beyond, extending from, elliptically surrounding, peripheral to,
peripherally encircling, squaring a grid, or geometrically expanded
beyond a precise point-based coordinate location of a searching
device, such as participant client device 102. Accuracy assignment
zone of searching device 1106 can be accuracy assignment zone
1200.
[0139] Accuracy radius 1110 can be a distance from a location of
digital artifact 100 or participant client device 102. Digital
artifact 100 or participant client device 102 can have its own
accuracy radius 1110, which can be used to calculate accuracy
assignment zone 1200, 1104, or 1106. In an embodiment, a
non-elliptical area can be provided such as a square that adds or
subtracts from a given location (x, y). Accuracy radius 1110 can be
radius 154 and its characteristics. FIGS. 15 and 15B show accuracy
radius 1110 as radius 154 resulting in differing magnitudes for
accuracy assignment zones 1200, also shown as 1104 (in relation to
digital artifact 100) and 1106 (in relation to participant client
device 102).
[0140] User-defined location 1114 (FIG. 12) can change a defined
location of participant client device 102, or digital asset 100. In
situations where a device 102, 146, or 176 has no accuracy
assignment associated therewith, allowing a user to define such
location can increase accuracy. User-defined location 1114 can
facilitate designating a more precise location. A benefit of
user-defined location 1114 is to enhance game play while decreasing
frustration when interacting with digital artifacts 100. A problem
with older devices is that some do not have high accuracy with
respect to device location, which may result in a range of, for
example, 300 feet within a given location. In such situations,
there can be a wide area in which the device is actually located.
Newer devices tend to have higher location accuracy. Generally,
more accurate devices may in some cases provide very high
accuracies from a given location. User-defined location 1114 can be
set within accuracy assignment zone 1200. FIG. 12 shows a change
from location (x,y,z) to (x.sub.a,y.sub.a,z.sub.a) for digital
artifact 100 within 1104, and device 102 at (x.sub.a,y.sub.a)
setting user-defined location 1114 to (x.sub.a2,y.sub.a2) within
1106. In some preferred embodiments, user-defined location 1114 can
be set for the location of participant client device 102. In some
preferred embodiments, user-defined location 1114 can be set by
server 140 with a default value. In an embodiment, user-defined
location 1114 can be set by participant client device 102, for
example, via client application 142 running on participant client
device 102. User-defined location 1114 can be set via a user
interface on client application 142 which can display accuracy
assignment zone 1200 (FIG. 12). User-defined location 1114 can be
limited to locations within accuracy assignment zone 1200. By
limiting the possible range of user-defined locations, a user in
one geographic area cannot set their user-defined location 1114 in
a remote geographic area. A benefit is to enhance honesty and
integrity in locations so that players cannot usurp digital
artifacts 100 by entering false locations. Further, security and
encryption measures can be employed in combination, including
without limitation the type of device, session identifier, user
identifier, software identifier, proprietary hash, timestamp,
browser type, operating system, browser user-agent, or any
combination thereof. Accuracy assignment-related settings, in most
preferred embodiments, can be done by an administrator setting on
server 140. In an embodiment, there can be varying gradations of
accuracy with respect to a given device or artifact, described by
words, letters, numbers, or symbols. Some non-limiting examples can
be: good, better, best, fair, poor, bad, high, medium, low, none,
or any numeric value, or any combination thereof. Vertical or
horizontal bars, incremental graphic pixels, or other symbolic
representations can indicate accuracy. If there is no accuracy
level assigned, a default level of accuracy can be set. Any of the
gradations of accuracy can have numeric values. A non-limiting
example can provide: "best" can be 5 feet, "good" at 15 feet, and
"fair" can be 30 feet.
[0141] FIG. 12 illustrates a proximity aspect of a possible
embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 12, where
participant client device 102 has a large accuracy assignment zone
1200, overlapping with accuracy assignment zone 1200 of digital
artifact 100 to form juxtaposition of proximity zones 1300.
User-defined location 1114 is also shown in FIG. 12 within accuracy
assignment zone 1200, which can occur in non-predetermined location
104.
[0142] Accuracy assignment zone 1200 can be an area around digital
artifact 100 or participant client device 102. Accuracy assignment
zone 1200 can be in any axis, for example: x, y, z, or any
combination thereof. The combination of both accuracy assignments
for digital artifact 100 and participant client device 102 can
provide flexibility in game play as well as device manageability.
In FIG. 11, there is no overlap between the accuracy assignments of
digital artifact 100 and participant client device 102. As shown by
way of non-limiting illustration in FIG. 11, the searching device,
participant client device 102, does not detect digital artifact 100
since neither digital artifact 100 nor the area 1112 around it is
within the accuracy assignment zone 1200. It will be understood
that "accuracy assignment zone 1200" can also be referred to as
"detectible area" or "area capable of being detected" with respect
to digital artifact 100. Digital artifact 100 can also have a
searching area. It will be understood that "accuracy assignment
zone 1200" can also be referred to as "area capable of being
searched" with respect to participant client device 102.
Participant client device 102 can also have a detectible area.
Accuracy assignment zone 1200 can be used to form zones 1104 or
1106.
[0143] In a possible embodiment, a low accuracy assignment 1110 can
be given to participant client device 102 resulting in a large
accuracy area 1112 for participant client device 102. A high
accuracy assignment 1110 can be assigned to digital artifact 100;
digital artifact 100 can thus have a small accuracy area 1112.
Digital artifact 100 and participant client device can each have a
non-predetermined location 104.
[0144] FIG. 13 illustrates a proximity aspect of a possible
embodiment of the present invention. Juxtaposition of proximity
zones 1300 is shown in FIG. 13 with accuracy assignment 1100,
accuracy assignment zone of digital artifact 1104, accuracy
assignment zone of searching device 1106, digital artifact 100,
participant client device 102, and non-predetermined location
104.
[0145] Juxtaposition of proximity zones 1300 can be an overlap of
two or more accuracy assignment zones 1100, 1200, 1104, or 1106.
Participant client device 102 can be the searching device. A
plurality of participant client devices 102 can have juxtaposition
of proximity zones 1300. In an embodiment, participant client
device 102 can locate another participant client device 102 via
juxtaposition of proximity zones 1300. Also, therefore, digital
artifacts 100 can detect another digital artifact 100.
[0146] FIG. 14 illustrates a proximity aspect of a possible
embodiment of the present invention. Juxtaposition of proximity
zones 1300 is shown in FIG. 14, with digital artifact 100 and
participant client device 102. To provide a non-limiting
illustration, FIG. 14 demonstrates a benefit of accuracy assignment
1100 applied to locating 510. If digital artifact 100 and
participant client device 102 are at the same respective locations
shown in FIG. 11, accuracy assignment zone of digital artifact 1104
with a small area can still be detected by participant client
device 102 having a large assignment area of searching device 1106,
producing proximity area 1300. As shown in FIG. 14, in a possible
embodiment, accuracy assignment zone of searching device 1106 can
be a larger area than that of digital artifact 1104.
[0147] FIG. 15 illustrates a proximity aspect of a possible
embodiment of the present invention. Proximity gap 1500 can be a
short distance between accuracy assignment zones 1100. Note the
presence of juxtaposition of proximity zones 1300 between locations
1 and 2 in FIG. 15 which overlap, whereas between 3 and 4 there is
no overlap and thus no juxtaposition of proximity zones 1300.
Therefore, in most preferred embodiments, digital artifact 100
(FIG. 15 at x.sub.3, y.sub.3) would not be displayed on participant
client device 102 with the smaller accuracy assignment, or with the
smaller accuracy assignment zone of digital artifact 1004. Radius
154 can be the value of accuracy assignment 1100, and can be used
to calculate any zone of any accuracy assignment 1100, zone 1200,
1104 or 1106.
[0148] FIG. 15B illustrates a proximity aspect of a possible
embodiment of the present invention. A plurality of participant
client devices 102 ("n" number of participant client devices 102)
can be present. There can be first participant client device 102
(x, y), second participant client device 102 (x.sub.2, y.sub.2),
third participant client device 102 (x.sub.3, y.sub.3), and fourth
participant client device 102 (x.sub.4, y.sub.4), without
limitation.
[0149] FIG. 15C illustrates a proximity aspect of a possible
embodiment of the present invention. Accuracy assignment zones
1200, whether applied to 1104 or 1106, can have varying shapes.
[0150] FIG. 16 illustrates a proximity aspect of a possible
embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 16, a
plurality of participant client devices 102 with respective
accuracy assignments 1110 can be proximate to each other (FIG. 16),
and can also be proximate to one or more digital artifacts 100
(FIG. 15). Further, participant client device 102 can be in
proximity 1300 with accuracy assignments of digital artifact 1104
(FIG. 15). In a possible embodiment, a plurality of devices 102 can
use the same process to locate 510 via accuracy assignment 1100, or
more specifically, via accuracy assignments of searching devices
1106, respectively.
[0151] FIG. 17 illustrates a proximity aspect of a possible
embodiment of the present invention. A plurality of digital
artifacts 100, shown in FIG. 17, can be in game 101. Each digital
artifact 100 can have a different or same accuracy assignment 1100.
Game 101 can be displayed in a user interface of participant client
device 102.
[0152] FIG. 18 illustrates a possible embodiment of the present
invention. Locate proximate digital artifacts 1800 is shown in FIG.
18, with plural digital artifacts 100 having accuracy assignments
1104 respectively, participant client device 102 with accuracy
assignment 1106, client application 142 and server 140. Proximity
detector 150 is shown with accuracy assignment 1110. Locate
proximate digital artifacts 1800 can be a web service call to
server 140 with the location and accuracy assignment 1100 of
participant client device 102. A web service call can get locations
of digital artifacts 100 which are proximate 1300 to participant
client device 102 using both accuracy assignment of searching
device 1106 in combination with accuracy assignment of digital
artifact 1104. Proximity detector 150 and accuracy assignment of
searching device 1106 can coincide in shape. Accuracy assignments
of digital artifacts 1104 can vary and need not be uniform for all
digital artifacts 100. In some preferred embodiments, each digital
artifact 100 can have its own accuracy assignment 1100 or 1104.
[0153] FIGS. 19 and 20 illustrate possible embodiments of the
present invention. Release 506 is shown in FIG. 19 running on
client application 142 and server 140. Locate 510 is shown in FIG.
20 running on client application 142 and server 140.
[0154] FIG. 21 illustrates a method diagram of a preferred
embodiment the present invention. Assign 2100 can set an accuracy
assignment 1100 to an object, and calculate an accuracy assignment
zone 1200 substantially around an object, such as participant
client device 102 or digital artifact 100. There can be multiple
assignments 1100 to multiple objects 50, including by way of
non-limiting illustration: card 200, creature 203, genetic material
304, token 400, and primary token 400A which can inherit
characteristics from digital artifact 100. Assigning 2100 accuracy
assignment zone 1200 can be performed on digital artifact 100.
Assign 2100 can allow the object 100 or 102 to be discoverable by
one or more participant client devices 102, where digital artifact
100 comprises a location 104 or 105, by forming 2102 a detectable
zone 1200 substantially around digital artifact 100 based on the
accuracy assignment zone 1200, or by forming 2104 a searching zone
1200 substantially around participant client device 102 with a
second accuracy assignment zone 1200, and overlapping 2106 the
accuracy assignment zone with the second accuracy assignment zone
1200, which can form juxtaposition of zones 1300. Accuracy
assignment 1100, as noted herein, can be stored on server 140.
Thus, 2100-2106 can be performed on server 140.
CONCLUSION
[0155] In summary, the present invention provides a system and
method for non-predetermined location interaction of digital
artifacts.
* * * * *