ONLINE MERCHANDISING AND ECOMMERCE WITH VIRTUAL REALITY SIMULATION OF AN ACTUAL RETAIL LOCATION
First Claim
1. A system for electronic merchandising and promotion, comprising:
- media containing software that is operable on a computer and accessible to a user, the software being able to create and present to the user a virtual reality world, the virtual reality world including;
a simulated place of business having a simulated interior space, the simulated interior space closely simulating a real interior space of a corresponding real-world place of business; and
a virtual consumer that is controllable by the user so as to enable the user to experience a simulated visit to the real-world place of business.
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Accused Products
Abstract
An online merchandising and promotion system is disclosed that closely simulates an interior space of an actual place of business in a virtual reality world. As consumers use avatars to explore the simulated space, they become simultaneously familiar with both the simulated and actual places of business, and thereafter can shop at both locations with equal ease. Previous familiarity with the actual place of business can motivate a consumer to visit the corresponding simulated location. In preferred embodiments, users can purchase virtual and/or real goods at the simulated place of business. Some simulated spaces enable avatars to socialize with each other, thereby prolonging their shopping and/or their exposure to advertising. In various embodiments, avatars can work to earn money, and/or avatars can earn virtual money by making real money purchases. Avatars can also gain status, and can compete with each other based on wealth, virtual possessions, and/or status.
169 Citations
20 Claims
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1. A system for electronic merchandising and promotion, comprising:
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media containing software that is operable on a computer and accessible to a user, the software being able to create and present to the user a virtual reality world, the virtual reality world including; a simulated place of business having a simulated interior space, the simulated interior space closely simulating a real interior space of a corresponding real-world place of business; and a virtual consumer that is controllable by the user so as to enable the user to experience a simulated visit to the real-world place of business. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20)
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Specification