CN106714916A

CN106714916A - Playing card reclamation system and method

Info

Publication number: CN106714916A
Application number: CN201580051986.8A
Authority: CN
Inventors: C·罗伊拉德; S·法斯曼; L·迈勒尔
Original assignee: MindPlay LLC
Current assignee: MindPlay LLC; US Playing Card Co
Priority date: 2014-07-24
Filing date: 2015-07-24
Publication date: 2017-05-24
Anticipated expiration: 2035-07-24
Also published as: WO2016014936A2; CN106714916B; WO2016014936A3

Abstract

A method of arranging playing cards in preparation for a playing card game. The method includes determining the quality of the playing cards by comparing each playing card to a preset quality standard. The playing cards that do not meet the quality standard are discarded. The playing cards the meet the quality started are sorting into one of a plurality of card holders based on at least one of the ranks or the suits of the playing card. A computationally generated pseudo random sequence of playing card values from a set of playing card values for a selected number of playing cards if formed, where the playing cards are sequentially removed from the card holders in accordance with the generated pseudo-random sequence. The removed paying cards are authenticated and stored a sorted card holder. This process is continued until a desired sorted stack of playing cards is formed.

Description

Playing cards recovery system and method

Technical field

The present invention relates to a kind of card chute apparatus, more specifically to for playing cards group is carried out it is pre- shuffle be System and method.

Background technology

Card Games is well-known amusement and recreation form.The usually used secondary or how secondary playing cards of game, wherein per secondary Playing cards generally include 52 playing cards.Every playing cards generally include four kinds of playing cards of pattern, including：Heart, square, plum blossom and black Peach, and every kind of pattern includes 14 gradational playing cards of tool：2~10, J, Q, K and A.Card Games can include or not include Bet based on game result.

Many pair playing cards must periodically shuffle, to prevent identical playing card sequence from constantly repeating.Will be every in board group Open after card reading, such as after several hands have been played, can be shuffled.Shuffling can also disturb or even prevent player from passing through Board is calculated to obtain the unfair advantage to banker (house) or other players.It is many calculation board systems be known, and generally according to Rely the playing cards that some or all had been played in player's holding mental arithmetic.For example, in 21 points or " plum blossom Jack (blackjack) in " playing, determine when that all playing cards that grade is 5 are dealt out the cards and (that is, calculate five strategy (fives Strategy it is)) beneficial.It is another useful calculation board in 21 points of game to calculate ten tactful (tens strategy) Method.Calculate ten strategies in, player in the playing cards that each occurrence is 10 to counter incrementing, and occurrence less than 10 paper To count decrement during board.The counting can provide remaining board group for playing divided by residue playing cards sum to be dealt out the cards with to player Family has the instruction of much help relative to banker.Other modifications for calculating board are well known in the art.

Because shuffle often slows down game rate manually, game industry uses many mechanical shufflers to add now Fast game rate is simultaneously more thoroughly shuffled.Playing cards generally several boards were washed before board group terminates with make great efforts prevent calculate board, and this (that is, game over strategy) may be especially effective when only remaining several hands.The number of cards for being sent is total with the playing cards stayed in board group The ratio between number commonly known as penetrance (penetration).Game industry is introducing continuous card shuffling machine now, further to try Figure obstruction attempts to calculate board.As its name suggests, continuous card shuffling machine enters when proficiency or many hands are playing to remaining playing cards pending Row machinery is shuffled.

Although mechanical shuffler accelerate game rate and generate it is more more thorough than manual methods shuffle, still Need to improve the speed and/or completeness shuffled.Particularly, current mechanical shuffler device and method due to this kind of device it is intrinsic Engineering properties and undergo incomplete shuffling.Additionally, mechanical shuffler is limited at the aspect of its exercisable board group sum System.

The content of the invention

It is wherein every in multiple playing cards the invention provides a kind of method for arranging multiple playing cards to prepare Card Games Opening playing cards has grade and pattern.The described method comprises the following steps：It is determined that the quality of every playing cards in described multiple playing cards, Wherein every playing cards in described multiple playing cards and default quality standard are compared；The quality standard will not met Corresponding playing cards are directed to standby playing cards retainer；Every playing cards that the quality standard is met in described multiple playing cards are sorted to In a playing cards retainer in multiple playing cards retainers, wherein, at least phase based on every playing cards in described multiple playing cards At least one of grade or corresponding pattern are answered, every playing cards in described multiple playing cards are sorted into the multiple playing cards keeps In in device；For selected playing cards quantity, the set according to playing cards value generates the pseudo-random sequence of playing cards value with calculating； Respective level and/or at least one of corresponding pattern at least based on corresponding playing cards, according to the playing cards value for being generated it is pseudo- with Machine sequence, corresponding playing cards are removed from the multiple playing cards retainer according to priority；Identify the corresponding playing cards；Will The corresponding playing cards are stored in sorting playing cards folder；And according to the playing cards value for being generated for the selected playing cards quantity Pseudo-random sequence, continuously remove, identify and store corresponding playing cards, formation sorted one pile playing cards.

It is determined that the quality of every playing cards in described multiple playing cards can include：By every paper in described multiple playing cards Before board is sorted in the multiple playing cards retainer, using every in described multiple playing cards of playing cards reader reading Open at least one of respective level and/or corresponding pattern of playing cards；It is determined that whether every playing cards in described multiple playing cards wrap Include illegal mark；And described multiple playing cards are included that every playing cards of illegal mark are directed to the standby playing cards and keep Device；It is determined that whether every playing cards in described multiple playing cards have any damage；And by the damage that has in described multiple playing cards Every playing cards are directed to the standby playing cards retainer；And the front or the back side of every playing cards in multiple playing cards described in determining Whether there is acceptable quality of colour；And every playing cards that will there is unacceptable quality of colour in described multiple playing cards It is directed to the standby playing cards retainer.

Additionally, every playing cards in described multiple playing cards include can be identified for that the manufacturer of the playing cards, public place of entertainment, etc. In the case that the mark of level and pattern is marked, it is determined that the quality of every playing cards in described multiple playing cards includes：Determine the mark Knowledge marks whether effectively；And every playing cards in described multiple playing cards with invalidated identification mark are directed to the standby paper Board retainer.

The pseudo-random sequence that set according to playing cards value generates playing cards value with calculating can be included at least one board group It is determined that for every corresponding playing cards value of playing cards, wherein, a board group includes at least 52 playing cards；And at least eight Determine in board group for every corresponding playing cards value of playing cards, wherein, each board group includes at least 52 playing cards.

Identify that the corresponding playing cards can include for identification marking being applied to the corresponding playing cards.The identification marking can Including using designator, the use designator to limit the number of times that the corresponding playing cards can be reused.Identification is described corresponding Playing cards can further include to verify the grade and pattern of the corresponding playing cards.

Brief description of the drawings

By when being considered in conjunction with the accompanying with reference to it is described in detail below will be better understood the more complete implication of the present invention and Its adjoint advantages and features, in the accompanying drawings：

Figure 1A depicts playing cards distribution in the form of an illustrated embodiment of the riffling device of playing cards shuffler device The front right top isometric view of one implementation method of device, it includes storage container, transmission mechanism and processor, the processor It is programmed to generate the Serial No. of the calculating generation of mark playing cards.

Figure 1B depicts the top view of the playing cards shuffler device of Figure 1A.

Fig. 1 C depict the front view of the playing cards shuffler device of Figure 1A.

Fig. 1 D depict the side view of the playing cards shuffler device of Figure 1A.

Fig. 2 depicts playing cards distribution dress in the form of an illustrated embodiment of the riffling device of playing cards shuffler device Isometric view in the front right of another implementation method put, it includes storage container, transmission mechanism and interface, and the interface can couple To receive and identify the Serial No. of the information-related calculating generation of playing cards.

Fig. 3 depicts the front view on the surface of exemplary playing cards.

Fig. 4 A and Fig. 4 B are depicted and are shown according to the loading of implementation method and prepare the playing cards of Figure 1A-Fig. 1 D and shuffle dress The flow chart of the method put.

Fig. 5 is depicted and is shown what is sorted with playing cards according to the operation playing cards shuffler device of an implementation method or shuffled The flow chart of method.

Fig. 6 A and Fig. 6 B are depicted and shown according to an operation during one or more Card Games is played for implementation method The flow chart of the method for playing cards shuffler device, the method includes reading and sorting again what is collected in one innings or a wheel game over Playing cards.

Fig. 7 is depicted and shown paper according to an operation playing cards shuffler device for implementation method in response to endhand's selection Board returns to the flow chart of the method in suitable playing cards retainer.

Fig. 8 A depict the side view of the playing cards card shuffling machine schematic diagram of the disclosure.

Fig. 8 B depict the top view of the playing cards card shuffling machine schematic diagram of Fig. 8 A.

Fig. 9 depicts the diagram of the shuffling method of the disclosure.

Specific embodiment

Description, wherein identical reference represent identical element, and Figure 1A~Fig. 1 D are shuffled with the first playing cards The form of device 24a shows an implementation method of playing cards distributor 24.

First playing cards shuffler device 24a includes：Housing 100 (Fig. 1 and Fig. 2)；Card receiver 102, has printed for receiving The playing cards 104 of brush；Outlet 106, for the order or sequence with processor generation or generation (for example, predefined order or sequence Row；Non-pseudo-random order or sequence, or pseudo-random sequence or sequence) playing cards 104 are provided；With sorting or riffling device 108, it is used for Order that playing cards 104b is produced with processor or sequence is set to be delivered at outlet 106.Produce pseudorandom suitable using processor Sequence or sequence solve at least some shortcomings being associated with conventional mechanical shuffler system, it is allowed to more real random sequence and by This reduces the sequence (that is, " aggregation " (clumping)) of the playing cards group repeated to another innings of game from one innings of game and/or allows Public place of entertainment sets desired probability, for example, the quantity of the playing cards group (for example, board group) by changing generation pseudo-random sequence is advised Mould.In this connection it is possible to using the actual playing cards quantity than being accommodated by playing cards shuffler device 24a in pseudo-random sequence is produced More or less playing cards quantity, consequently, it is possible to " virtually shuffling " process of permission has infinite range.As additional mode, or conduct Alternative, the sequence that processor is generated can not be random or pseudorandom.For example, the sequence of processor generation can be Non-pseudo-random, or be only that part is pseudorandom, such as to allow progressive game (progressive type gaming).It is received in such sequence is received the hand of player during Card Games or alternatively many When in the hand of individual player, example can include the sequence that processor is produced and progressive jackpot (jackpot) or increase branch Pay (enhanced payment) corresponding defined playing cards subgroup.By this way, card manufacturer and/or public place of entertainment can be with Ensure that progressive jackpot situation can occur only in some acceptable probable ranges.Such sequence for calculating generation can be simultaneously Enter or independently of the pseudo random number generation of the general calculating generation for discussing herein.

The riffling device 108 of the first playing cards shuffler device 24a includes：Control system 110 (figure)；Multiple playing cards retainers (being collectively identified as 112), for the playing cards 104 for keeping having printed；With transmission mechanism 114, under the control of the control system 110 Playing cards 104 are assigned to playing cards retainer 112 and/or playing cards are assigned to outlet 106 from playing cards retainer 112.

In the implementation method shown in Figure 1A~Fig. 1 D, there are 52 playing cards retainers 112, each playing cards retainer is used Grade (that is, 2~10, J, Q, K, A) and the various combinations of pattern (that is, heart, plum blossom, spade, square) in standard playing card. In implementation method shown in Figure 1A-Fig. 1 D, by playing cards retainer 112 with four for one group be grouped into corresponding 13 containers or In case 116.Therefore, one container 116 of each grade correspondence, and every kind of pattern one playing cards retainer 112 of correspondence.Such as Figure 1A~ Shown in Fig. 1 D, playing cards retainer 112 can vertically be organized as different height (level).

Although playing cards shuffler device is illustrated as separate box-type container 116, some implementations of playing cards shuffler device 24a Mode can be using the rotary conveyer (carrousel) with multiple slot type receptacles for keeping playing cards, Huo Zheke With using other devices of interim storage playing cards.In other embodiments, it is understood that there may be less or more the playing cards of quantity are protected Holder 112, for example, some implementation methods can be only with 13 playing cards retainers 112, because in some Card Games (examples Such as, 21 points, Baccarat) in playing cards pattern do not influence game result.Therefore, playing cards can be compiled according only to grade One group of limited playing cards retainer 112 of composition, wherein various patterns are met during the loading of card-dispensing device 24 with them Any order mix.

In the implementation method shown in Figure 1A-Fig. 1 D, transmission mechanism 114 includes that input transmission mechanism 118 and output are transmitted Mechanism 120.Input transmission mechanism 118 and output transmission mechanism 120 can share some common units respectively.Input transmission mechanism 118 are limited to the card input path (being identified by arrow 122) extended between card receiver 102 and playing cards retainer 112, and Output transmission mechanism 120 is limited to the card output path extended between playing cards retainer 112 and outlet 106 and (is marked by arrow 124 Know).

Input transmission mechanism 118 can include input conveyor 126 (such as band and/or roller 128), and the input conveyor exists Driven by one or more conveyor motors 130 under the control of control system 110 and moved from card receiver 102 with by playing cards 104 Move playing cards retainer 112.Conveyor motor 130 can take the form of one or more stepper motors, the stepper motor with Small increment or stride drive belt or roller, so that playing cards 104a advances or steps through card input path 122 with being incremented by, Somewhat suspend between each step, such as suspend when being alignd with a desired container in multiple containers.Stepper motor and Its operation is well known in the art, therefore no longer describes in further detail.Or, input transmission mechanism 118 can be with Using standard continuous motor along the propulsion playing cards of card input path 122 104a.Input transmission mechanism 118 can also include multiple Guide roller (not shown), with along the part guiding playing cards 104 of card input path 122.Although guide roller is not driven generally It is dynamic, but in some embodiments, one or more guide rollers can be driven in the case where particular topology is suitable to.Although figure Specific input transmission mechanism 118 is shown, but many other suitable transmission mechanisms are for the technical staff of print field For will be apparent.May be referred to numerous examples of the transmission mechanism for printer.

Input transmission mechanism 118 can include one or more card input actuators 132 (such as solenoid 133 and convex 135), the card input actuators are arranged in the corresponding porch of each playing cards retainer 112 along input conveyor 126 to wheel. Card input actuators 132 are optionally activated under the control of the control system 110, so that playing cards 104a is from input conveyor 126 move to selected one in playing cards retainer 112.Only the example of some possible card input actuators 132 can With including cam, arm, bar, roller and/or band.In addition, input transmission mechanism 118 can include one or more driving playing cards injections Device roller and/or band 119, it is oriented to make playing cards advance fully to corresponding playing cards retainer 112 from input conveyor 126 In.

Input transmission mechanism 118 can also include playing cards reader 134, and playing cards reader is along card input path 122 Positioning, for reading identification information from playing cards 104.For example, one or more playing cards readers 134 can be conveyed towards input The initiating terminal positioning of device 126.

Playing cards reader 134 can take various forms.For example, playing cards reader 134 can take optical scanner, light Learn imager (such as frequency still camera, motion camera and/or video camera) or the form of other optical pickocffs, wherein playing cards 104 carry optical identifiers, such as bar code symbol, standard playing card grade and/or suit markings, or other printings or write Mark (indicia), no matter whether the optical identifier can detect in the range of human eye vision.For example, playing cards reader 134 can With complementary metal oxide silicon (CMOS) micro imager part or charge-coupled device including one or more linear or two-dimensional arrays Part (" CCD ").

On imager implementation method, the visual field of playing cards reader 134 can be fixed relative to input conveyor 126, or Person can move relative to input conveyor.Playing cards reader can be scanned using any one of various method and structures 134 visual field.For example, playing cards reader 134 can be pivotally mounted on into being moved relative to input conveyor 126.Alternately, Mirror or other optical component (not shown) can be pivotally mounted on into relative to playing cards reader 134 and input conveyor 126 It is mobile.

Implementation method on scanner, the visual field of playing cards reader 134 can be fixed relative to input conveyor 126, And light source (not shown), such as laser or light emitting diode (LED), can be pivotally mounted on into relative to input conveyor 126 movements.Or, mirror or other optical component (not shown) are pivotally mounted to relative to light source and input conveyor 126 movements.

In another embodiment, the visual field of playing cards reader head 134 and playing cards reader 134 can keep solid It is fixed, and playing cards 104a is transmitted over the visual field of playing cards reader 134.

As briefly discussed, playing cards reader 134 can also include optical component, such as light source, mirror, reflector, The (not shown) such as lens, filter.Playing cards reader 134 can also include playing cards Existing detector (not shown), and playing cards are present Detector determines when have playing cards to be in position to be read, although this detector is optional.Playing cards Existing detector can In the form of taking light source and photodetector, the light source passes light through card receiver 102 or band and/or roller 128 is directed to instead Emitter, and the photodetector receives reflected light.Light has been interrupted in presence of the playing cards 104a in the beginning in input path 122, this energy Enough trigger playing cards reader 134.Or, in some embodiments, playing cards reader 134 remains ON or active state, according to To be captured on input conveyor 126 image of playing cards 104a by activating light source (not shown).

Equally, for example, playing cards reader 134 can take the form of one or more magnetic sensor (not shown), its Middle playing cards 104 include magnetic-particle (for example, remanent magnetism or magnetic stripe).Used as another example, playing cards reader 134 can be taken wirelessly The form of receiver and/or transceiver (not shown), for example, wherein playing cards 104 carry active or passive resonator or forwarding Device, such as radio frequency identification (RFID) circuit.

The construction of imager and scanner for read machine readable symbol and operation are at automatic data acquisition (" ADC ") It is commonly known in field, therefore for simplicity without being described in more detail.Palmer, Roger, C. write at it Make The Bar Code Book, Palmer, Roger, C., Helmers Publishing, Inc., Peterborough, N.H. Generality discusses machine-readable character reader structurally and operationally in (Third Edition).

Input transmission mechanism 118 can also include the Card Cleaning Mechanism 136 positioned along card input path 122.Example Such as, one or more rollers or brush can be positioned towards the starting ends of input conveyor 126, and chip is removed with from playing cards 104. Card Cleaning Mechanism 136 can significantly improve the continuous speed for reading playing cards 104.

Playing cards retainer 112 is removable relative to input conveyor 126.For example, container 116 may be coupled to by one or One or more rack and pinion structures 138 that multiple motors 140 drive.Control system 11 is for example via one or more motors Controller carrys out controlled motor 140, and appropriate playing cards retainer 112 is positioned at the height of input conveyor 126, this time control System processed 110 can activate appropriate card input actuators 132, and playing cards 104a is expired from the movement of input conveyor 126 In the playing cards retainer 112 of prestige.This allow pattern identical playing cards 104 store in same playing cards retainer 112 (for example, Height in container 116).Alternately, input conveyor 126 can be coupled to movement, and container 116 and/or playing cards are protected Holder 112 is kept fixing, or 116 two kinds of input conveyor 126 and container and/or playing cards retainer 112 can be moved.

Output transmission mechanism 120 can include output conveyer 142 (such as band or roller 144), and the output conveyer is by one Individual or multiple motors 146 drive, with above for input transmission mechanism 118 discuss similar mode by playing cards 104b from Playing cards retainer 112 moves to outlet 106.Playing cards retainer 112 is with the side similar with input conveyor as discussed above 126 Formula may move relative to output conveyer 142.In this respect, input transmission mechanism 118 and output transmission mechanism 120 respectively can be with Share public structure.Output transmission mechanism 120 can include that one or more playing cards export actuator 148 (such as solenoid), The playing cards export the corresponding exit that actuator is arranged in each playing cards retainer 112 along output conveyer 142.Playing cards are exported Actuator 148 is optionally activated under the control of the control system 110, so that playing cards are moved from selected playing cards retainer 112 Onto output conveyer 126.Only the example of some possible playing cards output actuators 148 can include arm, bar, roller and/or Band.In addition, output transmission mechanism 120 can include that one or more driving playing cards release roller and/or band 149, it is oriented to Playing cards 104b is advanced fully to outside corresponding playing cards retainer 112 and proceeded on output conveyer 142.

First playing cards shuffler device 24a may also include defect playing cards retainer 150, for keep impaired playing cards or its He does not meet the playing cards of the use demand for playing game.For example, can be removed from game may wear to playing cards cannot be by inconsistently The playing cards of reading.Defect playing cards retainer 150 can be in the end of input conveyor 126 so that be not sorted into any paper Playing cards in board retainer 112 are automatically placed in defect playing cards retainer 150.As additional mode, or as an alternative Mode, input transmission mechanism 118 can include dedicated actuator (not shown) (such as solenoid), for will not meet demand Playing cards are moved in defect playing cards retainer 150 from input conveyor 126.Only some are possible from input conveyor 126 The example for removing the solenoid structure of playing cards 104a can include arm, bar, roller and/or band.Defect playing cards retainer 150 can phase Fixed for input conveyor 126.Alternately, defect playing cards retainer 150 can keep with playing cards as discussed above The similar mode of device is removable relative to input conveyor 126.For example, defect playing cards retainer 150 can be in control system It is associated with the rack-and-pinion (not shown) driven by motor (not shown) under 110 control.

Additionally, the first playing cards shuffler device 24a alternatively can also include output playing cards retainer 152, for hair The orderly playing cards of interim storage before board person granting playing cards.Such implementation method can include one or more actuators, be used for Playing cards are moved into and/or removed output playing cards retainer 152.Output playing cards retainer 152 can with paper as discussed above The similar mode of board retainer may move relative to output conveyer 142.For example, output playing cards retainer 152 can be in control It is associated with the rack and pinion 153 driven by motor 155 (Fig. 1 C) under the control of system processed 110.

Control system 110 can include one or more microcontrollers, microprocessor, application specific integrated circuit and/or other Electric and/or electronic circuit.As illustrated, control system includes：Via the first microprocessor that bus 159 is coupled 154th, volatile storage 156 (such as random access memory (" RAM ")) and (the such as read-only storage of permanent storage 158 Device (" ROM ")).Control system 110 can for example include optional second microprocessor or ASIC 160, and it can be exclusively used in life Into or produce calculate generation sequence (for example, pseudo random number, non-pseudo-random number or part pseudo random number)；And first microprocessor 154 receive input from various sensors, and treatment is input into, and directly or via various middle controllers (such as by pacifying Electric machine controller (being collectively identified as 162) and connect that circuit board 166 in the housing 100 of playing cards shuffler device 24a is carried Connect device or port (being collectively identified as 164)) provide control signal to various actuators and motor.

As illustrated, control system 110 includes the first electric machine controller 162a coupled via connector 164a, for ringing The motor 130 of motor control signals of the Ying Yu from microprocessor 154 and control input transmission mechanism 118.As illustrated, control System 110 also includes the second electric machine controller 162b coupled via connector 164b, in response to from microprocessor 154 Motor control signal and the motor 146 of controlled output transmission mechanism 120.

Control system 110 includes various sensors.Sensor can be via corresponding connector or port 164 and optional Buffer 168 is coupled to microprocessor 154,160.For example, playing cards reader 134 can be via connector 164c and suitably slow Rush device or preprocessor (such as digital signal processor 168a) is coupled to microprocessor 154.Equally, for example, control system 110 One or more encoders 170 can be included, for detecting input transmission mechanism 118 respectively and exporting each of transmission mechanism 120 Plant movement and/or the position of element.For example, encoder 170 can take the linear scale that is carried by tooth bar or housing and with The form of the relative optical pickocff of linear scale.Equally, encoder 170 can take the shape of reed switch or similar device Formula, the repeating motion for detecting magnet is such as coupled to little gear or is coupled to the motor (such as 140) of driving pinion The rotation of the magnet of drive shaft.The encoder of the various application-specifics being suitably adapted in playing cards distributor 24 is correlation Known to the technical staff in field.Encoder can be coupled to microprocessor via connector 164d and optional buffer 168b 154。

Sensor may also take on the form of card level detectors (not shown), for detecting card receiver 102, paper The height or quantity of the playing cards in board retainer 112, defect playing cards retainer 150 and/or output playing cards retainer 152.Properly Card level detectors can include light source-detector device pair and through playing cards retainer and light source-detector device to being spaced apart Reflector.Therefore, when related card receiver 102, playing cards retainer 112, defect playing cards retainer 150 and/or output paper When the height of the playing cards 104 in board retainer 152 drops below the path of light, card level detectors detection is anti-by reflector The light penetrated, and the signal for indicating should to add or remove extra playing cards 104 is provided to microprocessor 154.Playing cards shuffler device 24b can use other height sensors, such as mechanical detector.Connector 164e and optional buffer 168c can respectively Plant sensor and be coupled to microprocessor 154.

Similarly, can be connected to for microprocessor 154 by one or more connectors 164f and optional buffer 168d Card input actuators 132, and one or more connectors 164g and optional buffer 168e can connect microprocessor 154 It is connected to playing cards output actuator 148.

Microprocessor 154 or microprocessor 160 perform storage in RAM 156, ROM 158 and/or microprocessor itself Instruction in onboard register (not shown), for generating playing card sequence (for example, pseudo-random playing card sequence, non-pseudo-random playing cards Sequence or part pseudo-random playing card sequence), and respectively control input transmission mechanism 118 and/or output transmission mechanism 120 pressing Calculate the delivery order playing cards 104 of the playing card sequence of generation.Control system 110 can be produced and one when every playing cards are delivered Playing cards grade and/or a corresponding value of pattern, or control system 110 can be produced and plurality of sheets of paper before playing cards are delivered Board grade and/or the corresponding multiple values of pattern.

In one embodiment, microprocessor 154 or microprocessor 160 are random according to one group of playing cards value calculating generation Playing card sequence.Generation random number is well-known in calculating field on computers.Mathematician is not usually considered that computer The random number of generation is true random, therefore such number generally is referred to as into pseudo random number.However, such numeral is for big It is sufficiently random for most actual purposes (playing cards such as are distributed into player).Therefore, although we are by computer or place The value of reason device generation is referred to as pseudorandom, but term used herein and in the claims should include having it is suitable with Any value of machine distribution, no matter whether the value is actually mathematically random.

In another embodiment, microprocessor 154 or microprocessor 160 are based on non-pseudo-random algorithm according to playing cards value Set calculate generation playing card sequence.For example, when the playing cards group for producing will be distributed pseudorandomly, it is possible to use this side Method.Alternatively, or as additional mode, this method can be allowed with comprising one or more progressive jackpots or increasing report The known possibility of reward (enhanced payout) combination distributes playing cards group.For example, the playing cards in every thousand groups of generations include " progressive jackpot " combination (for example, three heart A) of definition can meet demand.This provides and is directed to any specific hand or many The specific uncommon combination of cards occurred in hand is using progressive jackpot or the chance of increasing remuneration.This also provides in playing cards Using the chance of progression integration in game, for example, it is allowed to which to common point, it increases abnormal until occurring in proficiency player's payment Progressive jackpot is combined.Non-pseudo-random algorithm may insure that particular combination or multiple combinations are only capable of fixed number of times.

In further embodiment, microprocessor 154 or microprocessor 160 are based on part pseudo-random algorithm according to playing cards The set of value calculates generation playing card sequence.For example, part pseudo-random algorithm can be weighted or define, to calculate generate including The part that the sequence of " progressive jackpot " combination of the definition of the playing cards in some desired probability is generated as pseudo random number 's.Alternatively, or as additional mode, part pseudo-random algorithm can produce the quantity of definition pseudorandom values it It is simple afterwards to produce " progressive jackpot " combination.

Fig. 2 shows another implementation method of playing cards distributor 24 in the form of the second playing cards shuffler device 24b.The Two playing cards shuffler device 24b generally include the element of the first playing cards shuffler device 24a, but by control system 110 (Figure 1A) Part or all is placed on the outside of housing 100.For example, the function of control system 110 can at least in part in main frame meter The middle realization of at least one of calculation system 12, game processor 86 and/or server computer 14.Communication can be via LAN 78 Or WAN/INTERNET 80 is carried out.

As an example of such distribution function, host computing system 12, game processor 86 and/or server meter Calculation machine 14 can generate playing card sequence (for example, pseudorandom, non-pseudo-random or part pseudorandom) and be supplied to playing card sequence Microprocessor 154 in playing cards shuffler device 24b.In such implementation method, microprocessor 154 can be exclusively used in collecting defeated Enter, process and be input into and control various motors and actuator.This allows card order systematic function to be moved to more from casino floor The region of safety, so as to increase the security of system.This can also allow for removing the second microprocessor or ASIC 160 and/or Less complicated lower-cost microprocessor 154 is used in playing cards shuffler device 24b.Therefore, in suitable network 78,80 On, generate microprocessor 160 by sharing playing cards value between multiple playing cards shuffler device 24b, it is possible to reduce be exclusively used in generation The quantity (for example, pseudo random number, non-pseudo-random number, part pseudo random number) of the microprocessor of playing cards value.

Playing cards shuffler device 24b also read in card receiver 102 or input conveyor 126 or output conveyer 142 on Playing cards 108, so as to according to entitled " METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MONITORING CASINOS AND The United States Patent (USP) of the Patent No. 6460848 of GAMING " and entitled " METHOD, APPARATUS AND ARTICLE FOR The United States Patent (USP) of the Patent No. 6652379 and 6685658 of EVALUATING CARD GAMES, SUCH AS BLACKJACK " Described in method to play and bet (wagering) be tracked.

Playing cards shuffler device 24a, 24b can verify the playing cards collected after match, and the playing cards are carried out by same order Deal out the cards.Playing cards shuffler device 24a, 24b can also determine the result of game or hand, for example, determining each player 26 and endhand 30 initial board and any hit board (hit card).Additionally, playing cards shuffler device 24a, 24b can at any time, or even Before card reading, determine whether endhand 30 has at 21 points.It is being incorporated by reference into the patent and patent of this paper The many aspects in these aspects are discussed in more detail in application.Further, for example, right after being collected in playing cards When remuneration is disputable, or when there is suspicious activity at one or more table for games 18, playing cards shuffler device can played Game is rebuild after board.In addition, playing cards shuffler device 24a, 24b automatically recycle playing cards 104, so as to reduce public place of entertainment into This.

Fig. 3 shows the various marks on playing cards 104, including represents the grade (that is, 2~10, J, Q, K, A) 202 of playing cards With the ordinary symbol of pattern (that is, square, heart, spade and plum blossom) 204.Mark can also include mark, such as generally in paper The image of J, Q and the K 206 found on board.

Mark can also include identifier, for example, uniquely determining particular game and/or the playing cards board group belonging to playing cards Sequence number.Identifier can take bar code, markers, the micro print of the middle selection from suitable machine-readable character system The form of brush, microdot, DNA inks, region code or storehouse code sign 210, to allow easily to enter by using standard reader Row machine recognition.Although visible in the example shown, bar code symbol 210 can with only CF light (such as electromagnetic spectrum UV scopes) under visible ink printed.This prevent player 26 sequence number is watched during game is played.

Playing cards shuffler device 24a can use at least two different methods.In first method, playing cards 104 pass through At least one of grade and/or pattern and be sorted into playing cards retainer 112, and based on the playing card sequence for being generated (pseudo-random sequence, non-pseudo-random sequence or part pseudo-random sequence) removes playing cards from playing cards retainer 112.At second In method, playing cards 104 before being placed in playing cards retainer 112 or when be sorted into playing card sequence, then will Playing cards are sequentially removed from playing cards retainer 112.

Fig. 4 A and Fig. 4 B show the loading according to first method and prepare the playing card shuffler device of Figure 1A~Fig. 1 D The method 300 of 24a, the method is since step 302.Although being discussed below on via local at game shuffler device 24a The operation of the one or more microprocessors 154,160 of positioning, but appropriately configured playing cards shuffler device 24b can at least portion Ground is divided to be operated via the one or more microprocessors for being located remotely from playing cards shuffler device 24b.

In 304, card receiver 102 receives multiple playing cards 104.Note, playing cards 104 are shown as face-up in figure Orientation, in order to identify in the accompanying drawings.Playing cards 104 can for example with whole board group increment (that is, 52 playing cards, grade be 2~ 10th, J, Q, K, A, and four kinds of patterns, plum blossom, square, heart, spade) it is loaded.

In 306, control system 110 is initialized in the playing cards 104 in detecting card receiver 102.Playing cards are received Position sensor in device 102 can detect playing cards 104.Initialization can for example include returning to all playing cards retainers 112 To starting or " benchmark " position.Alternatively or as additional mode, initialization can for example be included in running background and examine It is disconnected, to monitor the operation of playing cards shuffler device 24a.

In 308, when playing cards 104 are supplied into input conveyor 126 from card receiver 102, playing cards cleaner Structure 136 wipes or otherwise cleans individual playing cards 104a.Playing cards 104 can for example lean on gravity from card receiver 102 Supply, or playing cards shuffler device 24a can use feed mechanism, such as one or more driven rollers and/or band.

In 310, when playing cards 104 reach input conveyor 126, playing cards reader 134 is read from individual playing cards 104a Take one or more identifiers.In one embodiment, playing cards reader 134 pairs on playing cards 104a with sightless to people At least one bar code symbol 210 (Fig. 6) imaging of ink.Bar code symbol 210 such as at least identifies paper to identifier The sequence number of the grade of board 104a, is encoded.Bar code symbol 210 can further identify the pattern of playing cards, and/or can be with Take the form of the identifier of unique in multiple board groups (for example, unique in hundreds of or thousands of playing cards groups).This area skill Art personnel will be recognized that：Grade mark 154 and suit markings 156 can be read, but machine-readable character is usually easier use Existing hardware and software is processed.

In 312, microprocessor 154 identifies playing cards 104a based on the identifier captured by playing cards reader 134, and It is determined that appropriate container 116 and/or playing cards retainer 112.Microprocessor 154 or other processors (such as DSP) are by treatment The identifier encoded in the machine-readable character 210 for reading recognizes playing cards 104a.Microprocessor 154 can use entitled U.S. of the Patent No. 6460848 of " METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MONITORING CASINOS AND GAMING " State's patent and entitled " METHOD, APPARATUS AND ARTICLE FOR EVALUATING CARD GAMES, SUCH The method and apparatus instructed in the United States Patent (USP) of the Patent No. 6652379 and 6685658 of AS BLACKJACK ".Alternatively, it is micro- Processor 154 can be verified：Complete board group is loaded onto in card receiver 102, and can calculate the board group number of loading. Microprocessor 154 can also be verified in the board group of the playing cards from ratify or mandate of all loadings.In this respect, authorization message Can be encoded into identifier, and even can be encrypted strengthen security.

In 314, the Continuous Drive input conveyor 126 of microprocessor 154.Microprocessor 154 can make input conveyor 126 are moved with the increment equal to standard playing card width, to ensure to align with container 116.Or, smaller increasing can be used Amount.For example, stepper motor 130 and electric machine controller 162a can realize width of the summation equal to standard playing card 104a fixed number really The discrete steps of amount.In another alternative, microprocessor 154 can send via electric machine controller 162a to motor 130 Signal, the step of to perform quantification, the step of quantification with the position of the playing cards 104a on input conveyor 126 and The distance between container 116 corresponding with the mark grade of playing cards 104a is corresponding.Therefore, as shown in 316, microprocessor 154 produce control signals so that input conveyor 126 along card input path 122 move playing cards 104a, until playing cards 104a with Appropriate container 116 aligns.

In 318, microprocessor 154 also produces control signal, so that appropriate playing cards retainer 112 is for example by driving The mobile rack of motor 140 and little gear 138 are alignd with input conveyor 126.This can be with playing cards 104a along input conveyor 126 move relative to container 116 while carrying out.Therefore, control system 110 can be using grade and pattern determination, with by edge Input conveyor 126 to optimize seven positions of position relative to container 116 and position relative to input conveyor 126 simultaneously Different playing cards retainers 112 is delivered to needed for its appropriate storage location (that is, playing cards retainer 112) making playing cards 104 Time minimizes.

As shown in 320, once alignment, microprocessor 154 will produce control signal, so that card input actuators Playing cards 104a is shifted to desired playing cards retainer 112 by appropriate one in 132.Drive playing cards syringe roller and/or band 119 Playing cards 104a is fully advanced into desired playing cards retainer 112.During the operation of playing cards shuffler device 24a, Ke Yilian It is continuous to drive playing cards injector roller and/or band 119.Or, paper can be driven in response to the control signal from microprocessor 154 Board injector roller and/or band 119.For example, microprocessor 154 can determine based on the position for calculating and/or be performed by motor 130 Multiple steps counting.As additional mode, or alternatively, microprocessor 154 may rely on from one or The positional information of multiple sensors.

In 322, control system 110 updates the counting of the playing cards 104 to being delivered to specific playing cards retainer 112.For example, Control system 110 can include electromechanical counter (not shown), and electromechanical counter detection playing cards 104a enters playing cards retainer 112 In.This electromechanical counter can take any one in the various forms of as above general discussion.Multiple playing cards retainers 112 Count preferred remains stationary state or with enough backups so that these values in playing cards shuffler device 24a intentionally or accidentally Power loss in the case of will not lose.

In 324, (for example, grade and/or pattern are uncertain) is not successfully read or with other defect (example Such as, bending, crack, cut, folding line) playing cards 104 be delivered to defect playing cards retainer 150.Control system 110 for example passes through The counting of the playing cards 104 to being delivered to defect playing cards retainer 150, electromechanics meter are updated using electromechanical counter (not shown) Number device detection playing cards 104a enters defect playing cards retainer 150.

In 326, microprocessor 154 determines whether playing cards retainer 112 is fully loaded with, and repeats aforesaid operations until playing cards keep Device 112 is fully loaded or has stored the playing cards of desired amt.Playing cards shuffler device 24a can have various capacity.For example, it is illustrated that Playing cards shuffler device 24a can keep 104 board groups, and wherein each board group includes 52 standard playing cards.Playing cards are washed Board apparatus 24a can include less or more the playing cards of quantity.In 328, then method 300 terminates.

Fig. 5 shows that the playing cards shuffler device 24a of the operation diagram 1A- Fig. 1 D according to first method enters with to playing cards 104 Row sorting or shuffling method 400, the method is since step 402.Although being discussed below through on by game shuffler device 24a The operation of the one or more microprocessors 154,160 being locally-located, but appropriately configured playing cards shuffler device 24b can be down to Partially operated via the one or more microprocessors for being located remotely from playing cards shuffler device 24b.In addition, although below Discussed with reference to the pseudo-random playing card sequence for generating with calculating, but as discussed above, these teachings can apply to meter Calculate the part pseudo-random playing card sequence of the non-pseudo-random playing card sequence of ground generation and/or the generation of calculating.

In 404, endhand 30 can carry out various via the interface (such as dealer terminal) with control system 110 Selection, a secondary or how secondary playing cards board group 104 is generated with based on desired standard.For example, endhand 30 can select to be generated The desired quantity of playing cards.Generally, 21 points of game is by using the playing cards of 1,2,6 or 8 secondary complete board groups.21 points Deformation and other game can be using the complete board group playing cards of other quantity, or even part playing cards.In some implementations In mode, endhand 30 can select game type (for example, 21 points, Baccarat, five Ka Suoha playing card, Chinese dominoes playing card Deng), or the type that game can be predefined.

Used as a part for operation 404, endhand 30 can alternatively select or can pre-define desired game Casino advantage.Generally, casino advantage depends on many factors, including：The type of Card Games, the joy of Card Games type The ad hoc rules that happy place uses, and board group quantity or playing cards quantity for dealing out the cards.In an alternative embodiment, public place of entertainment Advantage might also depend on the composition of those playing cards board groups, wherein for example, being removed or being added to playing cards board group in some playing cards (for example, 5 A in one or more playing cards board groups；And/or in one or more playing cards board groups only 3 K) providing Shanxi The chance of level, progressive jackpot or increasing remuneration.

Microprocessor 154 may rely on pre-defined type of play, game rule winning group quantity, or can make Endhand 30 or even player 26 select one or more parameters.For example, endhand 30 can select desired advantage, and it is based on Advantage provides suitable banker probability to player 26.Or, player 26 can select one group of desired banker probability, and by master Machine computing system 12 selects appropriate casino advantage corresponding with those banker probabilities.Therefore, it is ready confrontation in player 26 By in the case of the proficiency that is sent in greater number of playing cards 108, public place of entertainment can provide probability higher to player 26.From In the case of removing some playing cards in one or more playing cards board groups, public place of entertainment can also provide probability higher to player 26. As additional mode, or alternatively, for receiving specific proficiency (such as 5 seven), public place of entertainment can be carried to player For probability higher or reward (for example, progressive jackpot, increasing remuneration or progression remuneration (progressive payout)).In hair In the case that board person 30 alternatively selects desired casino advantage, control system 110 determines that carrying out casino advantage has determined that Game needed for number of cards.

In 406, control system 110 is responded by producing pseudo-random sequence；At least part of ground of pseudo-random sequence In：1) on the whole board group knowledge why of the specific Card Games of composition；With 2) selected specific board group number.As above begged for Opinion, microprocessor 154 or microprocessor 160 can generate pseudo-random sequence with calculating simultaneously.Microprocessor 154 or microprocessor Device 160 once whole can calculate the pseudo-random sequence of multiple playing cards of ground generation, or can one at a time calculate generation Pseudo-random sequence, for example, when previous playing cards 104b is extracted out from corresponding playing cards retainer 112.

Microprocessor 154 or microprocessor 160 can be to calculate raw by pseudo-random generation value corresponding with playing cards 104 Into pseudo-random sequence.Playing cards value can be taken and can be identified for that every independent playing cards and being easy to calculate appointing in the various forms for using What is a kind of.For example, every playing cards in conventional board group can be assigned integer value 1-52.Using the feelings more than a board group Under condition, continuous integer can be assigned with.For example, the every playing cards grade and suit combinations in the second conventional board group may be divided Send out the corresponding integer playing cards value of 53-104.Playing cards grade and suit combinations in each " virtual " playing cards board group may be at In the pre-defined sequence of matching.For example, playing cards value corresponding with two heart combinations can be 1 for the second board group, and It is 53 for the first board group；And the playing cards value of spade A can be 52 for the first board group, and it is 104 for the second board group.Using The grade and suit combinations that be mapped to playing cards value in multiple " virtual " playing cards board groups by identical sequence are conducive to paper after a while Board is identified or recognized, the generation without hindering pseudo-random sequence.The method of generating random number is many institutes in computer realm Known, therefore be not described in detail.Generating random number is using the scope for initially including the playing cards value of all determinations.Therefore, control System processed 110 can generate the stochastic ordering that the mechanical restriction of mechanical consistencies or playing cards sum not by any device is influenceed Row.

Generally, in pseudo-random sequence is generated, microprocessor 154,160 is by the every of the playing cards board group of each quantification Plant playing cards grade and use a playing cards value (for example, each board group there are 52 playing cards values) with suit combinations.Therefore, control system 110 are currently in use " virtual " playing cards, or represent the value of the playing cards in one or more " virtual " board groups.Microprocessor 154 is micro- Processor 160 calculates ground generation pseudo-random sequence using algorithm, so that it is guaranteed that not undergoing what is be associated with purely mechanic shuffler system The real pseudo-random sequence of Non-random distribution.As additional mode, or alternatively, the pseudo-random sequence of generation is calculated Allow the quantity of the board group of generation playing card sequence is actually unrestricted.

In 408, microprocessor 154 determines playing cards retainer 112 corresponding with next value of pseudo-random generation value.

In 410, microprocessor 154 produces control signal, and identified playing cards retainer 112 is moved to and output Conveyer 142 aligns.In 412, microprocessor 154 produces control signal, so that appropriate one in output actuator 148 will Playing cards 104b is assigned on output conveyer 142 from the playing cards retainer 112 for determining.Actuator 148 is exported by playing cards 104b Discharged towards output conveyer 142 from identified playing cards retainer 112, wherein optional driving releases roller or band 149 by paper Board 104b is moved fully on output conveyer 142.

In 414, the Continuous Drive of microprocessor 154 output conveyer 142.Microprocessor 154 can make output conveyer 142 are moved with the increment of the width equal to standard playing card, to ensure to align with container 116.Or, smaller increasing can be used Amount.For example, stepper motor 146 and electric machine controller 162b can realize that summation is equal to the definition number of the width of standard playing card 104a The discrete steps of amount.In another alternative, microprocessor can send via electric machine controller 162b to motor 146 to be believed Number, the step of to perform quantification, the position of the quantification of step and the playing cards 104a on output conveyer 142 and with The distance between corresponding container 116 of mark grade of playing cards 104a correspondence.Therefore, as shown in 316, microprocessor 154 Control signal is produced, so that output conveyer 142 moves playing cards 104a along card output path 124, until playing cards 104a is reached Output playing cards retainer 152.

In 416, control system 110 updates the counting to the playing cards 104 delivered from specific playing cards retainer 112.Example Such as, control system 110 can include electromechanical counter (not shown), and electromechanical counter is detected from playing cards retainer 112 out Playing cards 104a.This electromechanical counter can take any one in the various forms of as above general discussion.Multiple playing cards are protected The preferred remains stationary state of counting of holder 112 or with enough backups so that these values have playing cards shuffler device 24a's Meaning will not unintentionally lose in the case of power loss.

In 418, playing cards 104b is for example deposited into output playing cards retainer via actuator 132, one of 148 In 152.Therefore playing cards 104b is arranged with the sequence of pseudo-random generation or order.Or, playing cards 104b can be carried one by one Supply participant, such as endhand 30.Used as another alternative, playing cards 104b can be towards in playing cards shuffler device 24a The anterior slit for being formed or chute stack in order, as common in conventional type dealing box, for by participant's (example Such as, endhand 30) remove one by one.

In 420, microprocessor 145 determines that desired one group of playing cards are complete or output playing cards retainer 152 has been expired, Therefore playing cards distributor 24a provides the playing cards for having sorted or having shuffled to participant (for example, endhand 30).For example, micro- place Reason device 154 can send control signal, and the control signal is for example made defeated by rack-and-pinion 153 and associated motor Go out playing cards retainer 152 to rise from the surface of game table 18.Then endhand 30 can remove playing cards, and can send playing cards And without further shuffling.Or, endhand 30 or other participants can one by one remove from board shuffler device 24a Playing cards, or playing cards shuffler device 24a can one by one release playing cards.Endhand 30 can be used on being carried out to playing cards The standard casino process of cutting and/or " burning board " (burning).In 422, method 400 terminates.

Operation diagram 1A during the game that Fig. 6 A and Fig. 6 B show according to one or more Card Games of first method The method 500 of the playing cards shuffler device 24a of~Fig. 1 D, the method is since step 502.Although being discussed below on via in trip The operation of the one or more microprocessors 154,160 being locally-located at play shuffler device 24a, but appropriately configured playing cards are washed Board apparatus 24b can be grasped via the one or more microprocessors for being located remotely from playing cards shuffler device 24b at least in part Make.

Many operations of method 500 similar to method 300 operation (Fig. 4 A and Fig. 4 B), and in order to it is succinct and it is clear rise See, description thereof will not be repeated.

In 504, card receiver 102 receives multiple playing cards 104 in the way of face down.Generally, playing cards 104 are one Collected by endhand 30 at the end of office or a wheel.Therefore, playing cards shuffler device 24a reuses playing cards, so that it is guaranteed that playing cards quilt Fully sort or shuffle, to avoid the pattern for repeating from being issued or distribute.

In 506, with 308 (Fig. 4 A and Fig. 4 B) similar modes of operation, by playing cards 104 from card receiver 102 In when being supplied to input conveyor 126, Card Cleaning Mechanism 136 wipes or otherwise cleans individual playing cards 104a.508 In, with operation 310 (Fig. 4 A and Fig. 4 B) similar modes, when playing cards 104 reach input conveyor 126 when, playing cards reader 134 read one or more identifiers from individual playing cards 104a.In 510, with similar with 312 (Fig. 4 A and Fig. 4 B) of operation Mode, microprocessor 154 recognizes playing cards 104a based on the identifier read by playing cards reader 134, and determine it is appropriate Container 116 and/or playing cards retainer 112.

In 512, conveying is input into with 314 (Fig. 4 A and Fig. 4 B) similar modes, the Continuous Drive of microprocessor 154 are operated Device 126.As shown in 514, with 316 (Fig. 4 A and Fig. 4 B) similar modes of operation, microprocessor 154 produces control letter Number, so that input conveyor 126 moves playing cards 104a along card input path 122, until playing cards 104a and appropriate container 116 Alignment.In 516, with operation 318 (Fig. 4 A and Fig. 4 B) similar modes, microprocessor 154 produce control signal so that close Suitable playing cards retainer 112 aligns with input conveyor 126.In 518, with the side similar with 320 (Fig. 4 A and Fig. 4 B) of operation Formula, microprocessor 154 produces control signal, so that appropriate one in card input actuators 132 shifts to playing cards 104a Desired playing cards retainer 112.In 520, updated with 322 (Fig. 4 A and Fig. 4 B) similar modes, control system 110 are operated Counting to being delivered to the playing cards 104 of specific playing cards retainer 112.

In 522, with 324 (Fig. 4 A and Fig. 4 B) similar modes of operation, the failed playing cards 104 for reading are (for example, wait Level and/or pattern are uncertain) defect playing cards retainer 150 is delivered to, and control system 110 updates scarce to being delivered to Fall into the counting of the playing cards 104 of playing cards retainer 150.

Method 500 can be continuously performed, until microprocessor 154 determines that endhand 30 is chosen in 524：1) it is clear Sky, or 2) exit, for example nullified by dealer terminal.In either case, as described in following reference picture 10, such as exist Shown in 526, any playing cards stayed in output playing cards retainer 152 according to the grade by the first playing cards shuffler device 24a with Pattern and be sorted into its appropriate playing cards retainer 112.In 528, then method 500 terminates.

Fig. 7 shows the playing cards shuffler device 24a of the operation diagram 1A~Fig. 1 D according to first method with response to dealing out the cards Playing cards are returned to person's selection the method 600 of appropriate playing cards retainer 112, and the method is since step 602.

In 604, microprocessor 154 produces control signal, so that output playing cards retainer 152 and output conveyer 142 Alignment.In 606, when playing cards 104b returns to output conveyer 142, the reading identifier from playing cards 104b of reader 134. In 608, microprocessor 154 also produces control signal, with relative to the movement output conveyer 142 of container 116.It is micro- in 610 Processor 154 also produces control signal, with relative to the output movement playing cards of conveyer 142 retainer 112, to work as playing cards 104b Desired playing cards retainer 112 is alignd with output conveyer 142 when reaching playing cards retainer 112, to receive corresponding playing cards 104b.In 612, once playing cards 104b is alignd with corresponding container and playing cards retainer aligns with output conveyer 142, then Microprocessor 154 provides control signal, playing cards 104b is moved to corresponding playing cards retainer to activate output actuator 148 In 112.In 614, method 600 terminates.

Therefore, microprocessor 154 is based on grade and be sorted to playing cards in playing cards retainer 112 by pattern.Or, playing cards are washed Board apparatus 24a can be using input transmission mechanism 118 rather than output transmission mechanism 120, for making playing cards 104 return to playing cards Retainer 112.

Associated methods 500 (Fig. 6 A and Fig. 6 B), microprocessor 154 can also be for example by monitoring in playing cards retainer 112 The playing cards quantity of middle holding or the playing cards quantity collected in defect playing cards retainer 520 determine that one group of playing cards is fully worn Thoroughly.If using sufficiently large playing cards, being not usually required to this feature.

Reference picture 8A~Fig. 8 B, there is provided the implementation method of the playing cards distribution system 600 of replacement.Playing cards distribution system 600 Can be used for sorting and checking previously used playing cards 104.This can include identification playing cards and verify the quality of playing cards can In the standard of receiving.Do not identify or defective playing cards can be removed from use.

Playing cards distribution system 600 includes the element similar to the playing cards distribution system 24 provided in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, and this Wen Zhongying makes identical part is presented with like reference characters.Playing cards distribution system 600 includes：Card receiver 102, is used for The playing cards 104 that reception has been printed；Outlet 106, for the order or sequence with processor generation or generation (for example, predefined Order or sequence；Non-pseudo-random order or sequence, or pseudo-random sequence or sequence) playing cards 104 are provided；With sorting or riffling device 108, the playing cards 104b for having shuffled is delivered to outlet 106 by order or sequence for being produced with processor.

The riffling device 108 of playing cards shuffler device 600 includes：Control system 110 (figure)；Multiple playing cards retainers are (common It is designated as 112), for the playing cards 104 for keeping having printed；With transmission mechanism 114, under the control of the control system 110 by paper Board 104 is assigned to playing cards retainer 112 and/or playing cards is assigned into outlet 106 from playing cards retainer 112.

Transmission mechanism 114 includes input transmission mechanism 118 and output transmission mechanism 120.Playing cards limiter is inserted into Between card receiver 102 and input transmission mechanism 120, playing cards are transmitted one by one from playing cards 102 to verify.Input is passed Transfer mechanism 118 and output transmission mechanism 120 can share some common units respectively.Input transmission mechanism 118 is defined in paper The card input path (being identified by arrow 122) extended between board receiver 102 and playing cards retainer 112, and export conveyer Structure 120 defines the card output path (being identified by arrow 124) extended between playing cards retainer 112 and outlet 106.

Input transmission mechanism 118 can also include playing cards reader 134, and playing cards reader is along card input path 122 Positioning, for determining the quality of playing cards 104 and from playing cards 104 reading identification information.For example, one or more playing cards readers 134 can position towards the initiating terminal of input conveyor 126.Playing cards reader 134 can take various forms, for example, playing cards Reader 134 can take optical scanner, optical image former (such as frequency still camera, motion camera and/or video camera) Or the form of other optical pickocffs, wherein playing cards 104 carry optical identifier, such as bar code symbol, standard playing card grade And/or suit markings, or other printings or the mark write, no matter whether the optical identifier can be examined in the visual range of people Survey.For example, playing cards reader 134 can include the complementary metal oxide silicon (CMOS) of one or more linear or two-dimensional arrays Micro imager part or charge-coupled image sensor (" CCD ").Playing cards reader 134 check any defect of playing cards, the quality of playing cards and The authenticity of playing cards.

Alternately, playing cards reader 134 can include light and sensor, for read RFID label tag, RFID and UV or The combination of IR bar codes, QR yards of UV or IR, QR yard of encryption, GPS, markers, micro printing, DNA black, microdot or it is any its His mode.

Playing cards retainer 112 is removable relative to input conveyor 126.For example, container 116 may be coupled to by one or One or more rack-and-pinion structures 138 that multiple motors 140 drive.Control system 11 is for example via one or more electricity Machine controller carrys out controlled motor 140, appropriate playing cards retainer 112 is positioned at the height of input conveyor 126, now Control system 110 can activate appropriate card input actuators 132, and playing cards 104a is moved to from input conveyor 126 In desired playing cards retainer 112.This allow pattern identical playing cards 104 store in same playing cards retainer 112 (for example, Height in container 116).Alternately, input conveyor 126 can be coupled into movement, and container 116 and/or playing cards keep Device 112 is kept fixing, or input conveyor 126 and container 116 and/or playing cards retainer 112 can be moved.

Output transmission mechanism 120 can include output conveyer 142 (such as band or roller 144), and the output conveyer is by one Individual or multiple motors 146 drive, with above for input transmission mechanism 118 discuss similar mode by playing cards 104b from Playing cards retainer 112 moves to outlet 106.Playing cards retainer 112 is with the side similar with input conveyor as described above 126 Formula may move relative to output conveyer 142.

Playing cards assessor 135 is positioned to for reading orderly playing cards 104b.Playing cards assessor 135 can answer identification marking For playing cards 104d.Identification marking can Authenticate afresh playing cards 104b, and provide coding treat Authenticate afresh to limit playing cards Number of times.

In addition, playing cards assessor 135 verifies the integrality of the board group of orderly playing cards 104b.Reflected by playing cards by playing cards The sequence of playing cards 104b is read when determining device 135 and is compared with formation sequence, be able to carry out integrity verification.In order to read paper Board 104b, one or more playing cards assessors 135 can be positioned so that near output conveyer 142.Playing cards assessor 135 can be wrapped Include such as optical scanner, optical image former (such as frequency still camera, motion cameras and/or video camera) or other optics are passed Sensor, wherein playing cards 104b carrying optical identifier, such as bar code symbol, standard playing card grade and/or suit markings, or its The mark that he prints or writes, no matter whether the optical identifier can detect in the visual range of people.

Playing cards shuffler device 600 may also include defect playing cards retainer 150, and the playing cards or other for keeping damaging are not inconsistent Close the playing cards of the use demand for playing game.For example, can be removed from game may wear to what playing cards cannot inconsistently be read Playing cards.Defect playing cards retainer 150 can be in the end of input conveyor 126 so that be not sorted to any playing cards retainer Playing cards in 112 are automatically placed in defect playing cards retainer 150.As additional mode, or alternatively, input Transmission mechanism 118 can include dedicated actuator (not shown) (such as solenoid), for undesirable playing cards are defeated from being input into Device 126 is sent to move to defect playing cards retainer 150.Only some possible remove playing cards 104a's from input conveyor 126 The example of solenoid structure can include arm, bar, roller and/or band.Defect playing cards retainer 150 can be relative to input conveyor 126 fix.Or, defect playing cards retainer 150 can with the mode similar with playing cards retainer as described above relative to Input conveyor 126 may move.For example, defect playing cards retainer 150 can under the control of the control system 110 with by motor The rack-and-pinion (not shown) that (not shown) drives is associated.

Used as the alternative of the integrality of checking playing cards 104b, playing cards assessor 135 can include being used for playing cards Stack the camera that the lateral edges of board group are imaged.Lateral edges image can be used in counting the playing cards 104b in stacking board group Number.

Alternately, the playing cards for having sorted can be placed in packaging (not shown).Packaging can use sticky packaging label Sealing, wherein packaging label can include with the order of playing cards, the machine that execution is shuffled, the date shuffled and place, wait to transport Position, the content of playing cards, and/or the relevant coding information of playing cards quantity.Coding information be bar code, square matrix code, QR yards, On chip store electronic device, or other known systems form.The implementation method of packaging label is in entitled " Tracking Further described in the United States Patent (USP) of the Patent No. 7492267 of Methods and Systems Using RFID Tags ", Entire contents are incorporated herein by reference.

Reference picture 9, the operating method of playing cards shuffler device 600.Use from the safety storage/previous playing cards played 104 can be delivered and place 700 in card hopper 102.Being dimensioned so as to of card hopper 102 is transported to playing cards 104 to shuffle Mechanism 108.Playing cards 104a needs not be at pre-defined order, and is inserted into multiple board groups.

Playing cards 104 are delivered to riffling device 108 from card hopper 102, are identified with separation, oriented or otherwise entered Row tissue/sorting.First transmission mechanism 114 individually conveys playing cards 104a by playing cards reader 134.Playing cards reader 134 Whether each playing cards 104 of verification are defective and verify the authenticity of playing cards 104.

Initially in order to verify that every time only individual playing cards 702 is passed to playing cards reader 134 for checking, can use To board limiter, thickness gauge, graduated scale or playing cards marginal check device.If it is determined that coherent multiple playing cards have been delivered to Playing cards reader 134, then playing cards can be transferred to defect playing cards retainer.

Thick defect inspection 704 is performed to playing cards 104.In thick defect inspection, use what is obtained by one or more cameras The graphical analysis of image, verifies the defect of individual playing cards 104, such as playing cards tear or lack part, dust, spot, external mark Note, playing cards deformation (bending, folding line, emargintion or cut).Playing cards 104 including any thick defect will be considered as defective Playing cards.

Front and back to playing cards 104 carries out the inspection of correct the color and style.In addition, check the color of playing cards Quality does not have acceptable color or acceptable color fading to verify.Any no correct color, style can not connect The playing cards of the direction received will be considered as defective playing cards.

Manufacturer and public place of entertainment to playing cards 104 carry out checking 708.Individual playing cards 104 includes coded sequence, coded sequence Can be RFID label tag, the combination of RFID and UV or IR bar codes, QR yards of UV or IR, QR yards of encryption, it is GPS, markers, micro- Reprint books in a reduce format brush, DNA inks, microdot or any other modes that can be scanned by playing cards reader 134.Any no manufacturer and amusement The playing cards of the appropriate code of field will be considered as defective playing cards.

Perform tiny defect and check 710.Tiny defect inspection carries out the image of playing cards 104 with acceptable parameter preset Compare.Such parameter can include size, color and edge quality.Any playing cards for being unsatisfactory for acceptable parameter preset will It is considered as defective playing cards.

Coded sequence on playing cards carries out the further identification 712 of the direct picture relative to playing cards 104.Coded sequence can With including the information related to the size and pattern of playing cards.It is any including not meeting the imaging size of playing cards and the code sequence of pattern The playing cards of row will be considered as defective.

To also playing cards 104 be checked with the coding or mark 714 of any unauthorized.The coding or mark energy of the unauthorized of playing cards Enough take UV or IR marks or the form of other this marks.This mark can be regarding with appropriate light and sensor Figure.Any playing cards 104 including unauthorized mark will be considered as defective.

Any defective playing cards 104 that are identified as are transmitted and are stored in defect playing cards retainer 150.Defect playing cards Retainer 150 can include playing cards counter, with the defective number of cards for determining to be stored therein in.

Do not have defective playing cards 104 to be delivered to playing cards retainer 112 for arranging.Playing cards 104 can for example pass through Level and/or pattern and be sorted into playing cards retainer 112.

Controller calculates ground generation random number, for playing cards 104 to be ranked into the playing cards group board shuffled or sort in advance 716.Playing cards 104 are individually transported according to the random sequence for being generated from playing cards retainer 112, wherein playing cards assessor 135 check the playing cards extracted out.

Playing cards assessor 135 identifies 718 playing cards 104c, so as to verify the sequence of the appropriate coding and playing cards on playing cards 104b Row.In addition, new mark can be applied to playing cards 104b, with Authenticate afresh playing cards 104b and limit playing cards can certified time Number.

The playing cards 104b for having sorted is maintained in output playing cards retainer 152, to form the board group of completion.The board of completion Group can be made up of single deck of cards board group or many pair playing cards boards.Board group integrality is verified 720.The step can be by opposite side Edge, outburst (pip), index or open code or covered code count to complete.Verification process runs without interruption (with true Protect accuracy).Unqualified/incomplete board group can be transferred with to be destroyed or for rearranging.

When certain amount of playing cards 104 are supplied in card receiver 102, it is able to verify that the playing cards 104 for having sorted are counted. Specifically, can be by the playing cards 104b quantity in the quantity of playing cards 104 in defect playing cards retainer and the playing cards retainer for completing It is added.If the sum is mismatched with the number of cards for being initially supplied to receiving unit 102, the playing cards retainer for completing can be recognized To be unqualified/incomplete.

The board group of completion and then can be used to reinsert by endhand and deal out the cards in elegant (dealing show), wherein endhand The playing cards board group of completion is placed into show of dealing out the cards.Or, as described above, the playing cards for having sorted can be directly supplied into playing cards point In match system.

In another embodiment, the board group of completion can carry out automatic packaging 722, or can carry out hand-filling, or Person is packed by combination.Packaging material can include simple band, wrappage, cardboard to any other desired side Method, including can be directly entered the box device (cartridge device) of type dealing box, safety container (strong-room or sack) or Cabin (a cubby in a cart) or other stocking systems in person's cart.

Packaged board group can be marked 744 in the way of the Tracing type identification or indication meanses group in the whole value chain of public place of entertainment.This Kind of mode can be the combination of RFID label tag, RFID and bar code, QR yard, QR yards encrypted, it is GPS, markers, DNA inks, micro- Reprint books in a reduce format brush, microdot, or it is any for safety and storage controlling purpose can be scanned, track, follow the trail of and monitor it is any Other modes.

Defective playing cards from defect playing cards retainer 150 can be cancelled or destroy.In order to cancel playing cards, Neng Gouying With timestamp, markers or other modes.Use visible or invisible mode, laser, activation DNA inks, and activation or deactivation Markers disclose code or covered code to cancel.The step can include recording destroyed playing cards, so as to the storehouse that will enter The playing cards deposited or track are compared with destroyed playing cards with exiting.

All references cited herein is clearly integrally incorporated by reference.

It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the invention is not restricted to the content for having specifically illustrated above and describe.In addition, removing It is non-mentioned otherwise above, otherwise it should be noted that all accompanying drawings are not in proportion.According to above-mentioned teaching, do not departing from by institute In the case of attached the scope and spirit of the present invention and defined in the claim, various modifications and variations can be carried out.

Claims

1. a kind of to prepare Card Games and the method for arranging multiple playing cards, every playing cards in described multiple playing cards have grade And pattern, methods described includes：

It is determined that the quality of every playing cards in described multiple playing cards, wherein by every playing cards in described multiple playing cards with it is default Quality standard is compared；

The corresponding playing cards that the quality standard will not met are directed to standby playing cards retainer；

Every playing cards that the quality standard is met in described multiple playing cards are sorted in multiple playing cards retainers, Wherein, at least one of respective level or corresponding pattern at least based on every playing cards in described multiple playing cards, will be described Every playing cards in multiple playing cards are sorted in the multiple playing cards retainer；

For selected playing cards quantity, the set according to playing cards value generates the pseudo-random sequence of playing cards value with calculating；

At least one of respective level and/or corresponding pattern at least based on corresponding playing cards, according to the playing cards value for being generated Pseudo-random sequence, removes the corresponding playing cards from the multiple playing cards retainer；

Identify the corresponding playing cards；

By the corresponding playing cards storage in playing cards retainer is sorted；And

According to the pseudo-random sequence of the playing cards value for being generated for the selected playing cards quantity, continuously remove, identify simultaneously Store corresponding playing cards, the pile playing cards that formation has been sorted.

2. method according to claim 1, wherein it is determined that the quality of every playing cards in described multiple playing cards includes： Before every playing cards in described multiple playing cards are sorted in the multiple playing cards retainer, read using playing cards Device reads at least one of respective level and/or corresponding pattern of every playing cards in described multiple playing cards.

3. method according to claim 1, wherein it is determined that the quality of every playing cards in described multiple playing cards includes：Really Whether every playing cards in fixed described multiple playing cards include illegal mark；And described multiple playing cards are included into illegal mark Every playing cards are directed to the standby playing cards retainer.

4. method according to claim 1, wherein it is determined that the quality of every playing cards in described multiple playing cards includes：Really Whether every playing cards in fixed described multiple playing cards have any damage；And by the every paper for having damage in described multiple playing cards Board is directed to the standby playing cards retainer.

5. method according to claim 1, wherein it is determined that the quality of every playing cards in described multiple playing cards includes：Really Whether the front or the back side of every playing cards in fixed described multiple playing cards have acceptable quality of colour；And will it is described multiple Every playing cards with unacceptable quality of colour are directed to the standby playing cards retainer in playing cards.

6. method according to claim 1, wherein, every playing cards in described multiple playing cards include can be identified for that the paper The mark mark of the manufacturer of board, public place of entertainment, grade and pattern, wherein it is determined that the matter of every playing cards in described multiple playing cards Amount includes：Determine described marking whether effectively；And every paper that will there is invalidated identification mark in described multiple playing cards Board is directed to the standby playing cards retainer.

7. method according to claim 1, wherein, the mark mark can be selected from the group being made up of the following： RFID label tag, the combination of RFID and UV or IR bar codes, QR yards of UV or IR, QR yard of encryption, GPS, markers, micro print Brush, DNA ink and microdot.

8. method according to claim 1, wherein, the set according to playing cards value generates the pseudorandom sequence of playing cards value with calculating Row include that every playing cards being directed at least one board group determine corresponding playing cards value, wherein, each board group includes any number of Playing cards.

9. method according to claim 1, wherein, the set according to playing cards value generates the pseudorandom sequence of playing cards value with calculating Row include that every playing cards being directed at least eight board groups determine corresponding playing cards value, wherein, each board group includes any number of Playing cards.

10. method according to claim 1, wherein, identify that the corresponding playing cards include being applied to identification marking described Corresponding playing cards.

11. methods according to claim 10, wherein, the identification marking includes using designator, described to use instruction Symbol can limit the number of times that the corresponding playing cards can be reused.

12. methods according to claim 10, wherein, the identification marking can be selected from the group being made up of the following： RFID label tag, the combination of RFID and UV or IR bar codes, QR yards of UV or IR, QR yard of encryption, GPS, markers, micro print Brush, DNA ink and microdot.

13. methods according to claim 1, wherein, identify the corresponding playing cards include the checking corresponding playing cards etc. Level and pattern.

14. methods according to claim 1, also including having been sorted described in checking one piles up the playing cards quantity in playing cards is equal to The selected playing cards quantity.

15. methods according to claim 1, also including being packed to the pile playing cards for having sorted.

16. methods according to claim 15, also including being labeled to sorted one packaging pile playing cards.