CZ20031824A3 - Arrangement of self-service betting terminal system - Google Patents

Abstract

Arrangement of a self-service wagering terminal comprising a microprocessor (A) of a wagering terminal and a feeding and data secruity module (B) containing an overload block (2) interconnected with a power supply (1) and a backup power supply (3) and also a data transmission block (4) interconnected through a communication network (5) with a head office (6) of a wagering company where at least one user interface (C) comprising a data display (7) and a data input device (8) is interconnected with the microprocessor (A) of the wagering terminal while the user interface (C) is an independent part of the wagering terminal.

Description

(57)

The arrangement comprises a betting terminal microprocessor (A) and a power and security data module (B). It comprises a surge protection block (2) connected to a voltage source (1) and a backup voltage source (3), and a data block (4) connected via a communication network (5) to the bookmaker headquarters (6). The at least one user interface (C) including the data display (7) and the data entry device (8) is connected to the microprocessor (A) of the betting terminal, the user interface (C) forming a separate part of the betting terminal.

CZ 2003- 1§24 A3

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ARRANGEMENT OF THE SELF-SERVICE BETTING TERMINAL SYSTEM

Technical field

The invention relates to an arrangement of a wagering self-service terminal system comprising a computer module and a power module comprising an overvoltage protection block interconnected with a power supply and a back-up power supply and further a data transmission block interconnected via a communication network with the bookmaker head office.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

There are several ways of making lots and odds betting or running lotteries.

The first way in which the bettor is physically present is possible through the use of a computer workstation where the bettor concludes his bet on the basis of a lottery or sporting opportunity presented directly at the collection point by means of menu boards and notice boards. Typically, bettors write their tips on a slip of paper for the purpose of collecting, which is then presented to the operator behind the counter, which according to his written and verbal instructions at his computer workplace creates the appropriate ticket in the database, prints it and hands cash or non-cash via electronic wallet-credit card. This method of placing bets requires ample space - the bettor must have reasonably comfortable access to the menu boards, and in addition a separate separate area (counter) with the operator's workplace must be created. The disadvantage is that the operator must, depending on the bettors' interest, pay attention not only to the placing of bets, but of course also to the addition of new betting opportunities, updating continuous changes in odds, times, dates of sports opportunities, printing necessary reports. especially when bettors are more interested in betting, almost impossible. In addition, the operator's duties in this method include a number of other operations, so that the workload is virtually 100% during working hours. At such a collection point, considerable overhead and wage funds need to be spent to maintain it.

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The second way in which the bettor is physically present is to use terminals, which are usually located in different premises where the service is provided by the premises' staff beyond their main job. While these outlets are largely eliminated excessive spending on operator wages, because its main job is different activity, but this is also their disadvantage, because often happens that the bettor waits for placing a bet in the queue, for example in a tobacco and newspaper store, serving customers who have not come here to place a bet at all, which may eventually discourage a prospective bettor from waiting for a potential bettor. Another disadvantage of this system is the need to fill in pre-printed special forms so accurate that the terminal is able to recognize and print the desired ticket. It is obvious that central printing and distribution of the required special forms to individual collection points is necessary, which increases the overheads associated with placing a bet. In this case, the terminal serves as a simple technical device for the operation of the collection point, not for the bettor himself. Its use and possibilities are thus very limited.

Another method of placing bets is the method of placing bets through tariff systems that use data networks, in particular cellular and satellite networks, to transmit packets of bet data. Patent Application No. WO 99/30787 describes a betting system with improved communication between a host computer and a remote terminal. A computer-based “quick pick” betting system uses keys in the form of random numbers, which serve as starting numbers in an algorithm that generates pseudo-random numbers. At the dealer terminal, an algorithm and starting number are used to create random number combinations for each game in the bet, where the combination of numbers is assigned sequentially and printed along with the sequential serial number on the bet. By storing the algorithm and start number in both the host computer and the remote terminal of the vendor, the remote terminal can transmit all relevant information by simply transmitting the actual number of games sold, thereby substantially reducing the amount of data exchanged. Limited data exchange represents an innovation of data transmission methods such as satellite packet transmission and cellular services.

European patent application EP 1 199 690 A2 describes a method for transferring game data to a global computer network. The remote gaming method includes player access via a remote terminal, a gaming site on a global computer network connected to the remote terminal. A player may communicate personal identification data to a gaming site via a remote terminal and select via a remote terminal a gambling game located on a gaming device intended for remote play. The remote terminal is located outside the game controller. A player will place a bet through the remote terminal to play the selected game and receive random generated text or graphical result data on the remote terminal for the selected game. The resulting data is generated either by a gaming server or a gaming machine in the gaming device and then transmitted to the gaming site.

PCT application WO 00/6721 describes a multimedia betting system comprising a plurality of betting devices and a delivery system that is connected to the betting devices and a plurality of multimedia betting terminals, a communication network for easy communication between the betting system and the multimedia betting terminals . Advantageously, the communication network is formed as a closed network, but instead of a fixed network, the communication network may form an open network, such as the Internet, as long as such an open network provides sufficient frequencies to communicate with multimedia betting terminals.

Each betting equipment has an associated one or more racetracks and is connected to a betting system that provides betting information. Multimedia betting terminals are also linked to a betting system that provides information about the chances of each competitor.

The betting system comprises a user interface, betting devices that include a transmitter / receiver for communicating with these devices, multimedia betting terminals, comprising a transmitter / receiver for communicating with these terminals. It further comprises a microprocessor that is connected to the user interface and to the betting terminal transmitter / receiver and the betting transmitter / receiver. It further comprises non-volatile memory and non-volatile memory, e.g., RAM, which are in communication with the microprocessor. The user interface includes a data display for displaying betting information. Preferably, a display terminal may be used to display information supplied from betting devices. The user interface further comprises a data entry device, such as a keyboard or mouse, for inputting data and commands of the system user. Control commands, including selection commands, are displayed in betting terminals.

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Non-volatile memory includes a database that contains multimedia records of previous races (bets). Each multimedia record contains a video record of the race, an audio record associated with the video record, a record with the name and location of the track, a record with the name of the competitor, a record of the probability of winning each competitor etc. -ROM for fast microprocessor access. The non-volatile memory also includes instructions for the microprocessor. These instructions are stored in a volatile memory that is delimited by a database selector and a microprocessor. The volatile memory also includes a local database associated with the microprocessor. The local database contains betting records, identifiable in the network terminals of the betting terminal.

Each multimedia betting terminal includes a multimedia display for displaying the races selected by the betting system, a user interface for entering races, a paper money receiving device, a money issuing device, an electronic card reader / writer, a multimedia display location, a user interfaces, prize dispensers, electronic card readers / writers.

The purpose of the invention is to provide a self-service betting terminal and simplicity in its operation. A bettor creates, pays, prints and removes his / her required bet slip or performs other required operations based on a menu from the terminal.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The above-mentioned shortcomings are overcome by a self-service betting terminal system comprising a microprocessor and a power module which includes a surge protection block connected to a power supply and a backup power supply, and a data transmission block interconnected via a communication network with the bookmaker's head office. at least one user interface including a data display and data entry device is further coupled to the betting terminal microprocessor, wherein the user interface forms a separate part of the betting terminal for accessibility by the customer.

The self-service betting terminal system according to the above-mentioned technical solution represents a significant step forward towards the customer, where this technical device figuratively "jumps over the operator's desk" and is fully available to the bettor. In order to place a bet or other necessary operations, it is sufficient for the bettor (thanks to a meaningful ordering and user-friendly hardware) to "browse" logically user-friendly and user-friendly software. the amount, payment of the ticket (either in cash via the terminal's technical equipment or non-cash, eg via an electronic wallet, payment card, Internet banking) and its issuance in writing, which serves as proof, eg of a closed bet if law is absolutely necessary. In order to place a bet, it will not be necessary to pre-type any form, no contact with the operator will be necessary. The system of the self-service betting terminal allows the customer to carry out the necessary operations, such as checking the ticket, withdrawing winnings, cancellation, discount, information service, etc. The advantage is also the possibility of using multilingual versions of the betting terminal.

A system in this arrangement according to the present invention may provide the customer with the services or offers of multiple bookmakers. It is not possible to update such large bids, eg on bid boards, in real time. The advantage is that the customer can compare and choose from individual offers of competing bookmakers at one collection point.

With this system arrangement, almost 100% confidentiality is guaranteed in the form of a betting slip and the amount of the stake may not be known to the "person in charge" as well as the form of the placed bet or the amount of winnings collected. In doing so, the betting company may, by introducing betting exclusively with that company's loyalty card, guarantee the identification of a particular bettor.

Communication and update of changes almost completely or completely "on line" - it depends on the chosen method of data transmission. Such rapidly updated changes would not be able to handle and update in any way the presented offer.

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The system also ensures that the date, time, opponents' names, home-guest ranking and the current odds listed in the presented offer will not be in accordance with the data on the closed betting slip.

Furthermore, the possibility of almost instantaneous reactions of the bookmaker (and / or possible evaluation software) at the head office of the bookmaker is guaranteed, who would be informed “on-line” about the development of the bookmaking throughout the company. Of course, such complete information can give betting companies more flexibility and higher returns.

By introducing the above-described self-service betting terminal system to the betting market and its rapid mass spread, it will not only bring greater convenience to bettors, but will also enable a betting company to use a higher market share by expanding into previously unattractive costs. sites such as smaller towns and villages. The operating hours of the collection points can be extended by preferentially placing the terminals in premises with longer or non-stop working hours, which will contribute to optimum utilization. This will allow all terminals to be interconnected, different types of jackpots to be created for specific areas and time periods, which will help make betting more attractive.

To enhance customer convenience, it is also advantageous if the user interface further comprises an electronic card reader and / or writer, a cash reception and / or cash dispenser and a document issuing device that are connected to the betting terminal microprocessor.

It is also natural for the microprocessor to be connected to an additional peripheral device module and an operator module which includes a card reader and / or recorder, a data display for the operator, an operator control device, a print report device and a document issuing device. .

The advantage of such a self-service betting terminal system is that it can be supplemented with various peripheral devices, which will further enhance its user comfort even more, and increase its equipment and utility value. The peripheral devices in this case may be, for example, a camera, a microphone, a jackpot, a large-screen projection device, and the like.

Another advantage of the proposed system is the minimum requirements for ensuring operation by the human workforce. Minimum space requirement. Furthermore, the minimum wage costs for the operator (eg the operator need not be in any employment relationship with the betting company if he only provides supervision as a "supervisor" in his / her main job at a business, such as a restaurant).

The proposed arrangement of the self-service betting terminal system also gives the possibility of applying extra bonuses and prizes - for example, “draws of non-winning bets from this site”, which will increase the motivation of unsuccessful bettors and increase attendance at the site.

Overview of the drawings

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a diagram of a betting terminal system comprising a betting terminal microprocessor, a power and data security module, and a user interface in a basic version; FIG. 2 is a diagram of a betting terminal system including a betting terminal microprocessor; Fig. 3 is a diagram of a betting terminal arrangement system comprising a betting terminal microprocessor, a power and data security module, an enhanced version user interface, a peripheral device module, and an operator module; layout of the betting terminal system comprising a betting terminal microprocessor, a power and data security module and a user interface formed by a computer with a microprocessor, FIG. s wagering terminal system with the wireless interface G1až G _n, and FIG. 6 a variant embodiment of the wagering terminal system with the wireless user interface ažCn C1,

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The self-service betting terminal system of the invention will be illustrated by means of several preferred examples.

The basic configuration of the self-service betting terminal system is shown in Fig. 1 and comprises a betting terminal microprocessor A, a power and data security module B that includes data transfer block 4, block 2. fj * of the surge protector connected to the voltage source 1, which are connected to the microprocessor A of the betting terminal. These are also connected via a backup voltage source 3 to the microprocessor A of the betting terminal. Further, the data transfer block 4 is connected to the microprocessor A of the betting terminal, which is further connected via a communication network 5 to the head office 6 of the betting company. Furthermore, at least one basic user interface C1 to Cq including a data display 7 and data input device 8 is connected to the betting terminal microprocessor A, wherein the user interfaces C1 to C _n form a separate part of the betting terminal.

The layout of the self-service betting terminal system with an extended user interface is shown in Fig. 2. In this case, the system consists of three modules: the betting terminal microprocessor A, the power and data security module B and the user interfaces C1 to Cg. The power and data security module B comprises a surge protector block 2 connected to a voltage source 1, which are connected to the microprocessor A of the betting terminal. They are also connected via a backup voltage source 3 to the microprocessor A of the betting terminal. Further, the data transfer block 4 is connected via the communication network 5 to the betting company headquarters 6, wherein the data transfer block 4 is connected to the betting terminal microprocessor A. The user interfaces C1 to Cn form a separate part mechanically separated from the betting terminal, and in this embodiment comprise a data display 7, a data entry device 8, a reader, and / or an electronic card writer 9, a cash receiving and / or paying device 10 and a device 11 for issuing a document, a ticket identification and retention device 12, and a loudspeaker 15 which are connected to the microprocessor A of the betting terminal.

The function of the self-service betting terminal system in this embodiment is as follows: The system-wide supply voltage and data for the betting terminal microprocessor A are supplied from the power and data security module B. The supply voltage is supplied from the power supply 1 through the surge protection block 2 to the backup power supply 3 and to all other parts of the device with its own power supply. The data is then routed in both directions between the betting company headquarters 6 and the betting terminal microprocessor A via the communication network 5 and the data transfer block 4. Microprocessor A of the betting terminal provides processing and transmission • 4 · «* 9« * ♦ 4 44 «9 * 4

4 9 data from and to user interfaces C1 to C _n . through which the customer performs the required operation, for which this module will issue a written document. For example, setting up the desired bet allows the bettor to display the data display 7 with the data entry device 8, the payment may be made by cashless electronic card via a reader, and / or electronic card writer 9, possibly by cash payment using the device 10 for receiving and / or dispensing cash. The document issuing device 11 on the basis of the payment made then ensures the issuance of the document which the bettor retains.

Betting data changes are recorded by the betting terminal microprocessor A, which is then transmitted via the data transfer block 4 and the communication network 5 back to the betting company headquarters 6 for evaluation and archiving. The microprocessor A of the betting terminal will be suitable due to the need for uninterrupted security of operation, the necessity to continuously store data on the backup unit, the frequent need for data transmission from or at the headquarters of the betting company 6 and design it as at least two computer units, primary and secondary. The connection of other computer units is not excluded, on the contrary, it may be advantageous in the case of connecting more user interfaces C1 to C "at more frequented busbars, while their energy and data requirements can handle a single module B power and data security.

In the event of a power failure, the backup power supply 3 will allow secure data storage, document completion and safe shutdown of all equipment until power is restored from the power supply 1.

The self-service betting system will enable the customer to self-service through the user interfaces C1 to Cn, which must be equipped with a device 12 for identifying and retaining the ticket - the self-service betting system. In this case, the voucher is retained against payment of money in the user interfaces C1 to Cn. In the event that the bet is only made in electronic form, the voucher-identification device 12 is not required.

Another variation of the betting terminal system configuration, including the betting terminal microprocessor A, power and data security module B, rf rf * rfrfrfrf * rf user interfaces C1 to C _n in the enhanced version, the peripheral devices module D and the operator module E are shown in FIG. 3. This consists of the three modules mentioned above: the betting terminal microprocessor A, the power and data security module B, which includes a surge protection block 2 connected to a power supply 1 and a backup a voltage source 3, and a data transfer block 4 interconnected via a communication network 5 with the bookmaker headquarters 6 and user interfaces C1 to Cu, which in this embodiment include a data display 7, data entry device 8, reader, and / or electronic card recorder 9 , a device 10 for receiving and / or dispensing cash and a device 11 for issuing a document, eg, a printer, a ticket identification and retention device 12, and a loudspeaker 15, which are connected to the microprocessor A of the betting terminal. In addition, there are two add-on modules: the D module of the peripheral devices and the operator module E. In this case, the basic system is extended according to the needs and possibilities of the collection point and the needs and possibilities of the betting company. Within the module D of peripheral devices, various devices for better and more modern presentation, such as an electronic card reader and / or a recorder 9, a data entry device 8, a large-screen projection device, can be optionally connected to the microprocessor A of the betting terminal. 19, camera 16, jackpot 18, or microphone 17 and the like. These can, alone or in any combination, further enhance the level of service offered.

The operator module E comprises a data display 7, an electronic card reader and / or a recorder 9, a data entry device 8, a data report printing device 13, a document issuing device t1, e.g., a financial transaction made, and a cash register 14.

The operating module E can advantageously be used wherever it is desirable to operate the equipment by a "supervisor" directly from behind the counter. Through the above-mentioned devices of the operator module E, the operator will be able to pay cash from the loyalty electronic payment cards against the issued and betting document, as well as deposit cash against the issued document on the loyalty electronic payment card. The operator may also make a cancellation, discount and

I Μ I * * wins. It can also print data sets, whether for betting needs or for customers.

When using a full operating module E may not then be needed in the user interface C 1 to C _n to use and connect the device 10 for receiving and / or dispensing of cash, or a reader and / or recorder 9 electronic card or device 12 for identification and detention document - the betting slip or the document issuing device 11, as the case may be.

Another variant of the self-service betting terminal system, wherein the user interfaces C1 to Cq comprise computers G1 to G _n with microprocessors Fj is shown in Fig. 4a. In this variation, the user interface CI to C ^ consists computers G1 to _Gn each of which includes a microprocessor M, data display devices 7 and 8 for inputting data. These are connected to the microprocessor F, which is further connected to the microprocessor A of the betting terminal. In this case, the betting terminal microprocessor A is also connected to the power and data security module B, which comprises a surge protection block 2 connected to the voltage source 1, a backup voltage source 3, which are connected to the betting terminal microprocessor A. Further, the data transfer block 4 is connected via the communication network 5 to the betting company headquarters 6, wherein the data transfer block 4 is also connected to the betting terminal microprocessor A.

As shown in Fig. 4b, the above-described variant can be expanded by one or the other or both modules, ie module D of additional peripherals and operator module E, as described above, depending on the needs and possibilities of the betting company and the collection point. .

An embodiment variant of a betting terminal system with wireless connection of the user interfaces C1 to Cj is shown in Fig. 5. In this variant, the user interfaces C1 to C are formed by computers G1 θ each comprising a microprocessor F, a data display 7 and a device 8 data input, transmitter / receiver 20, and user interface voltage source 21, which are coupled to microprocessor F, which is further coupled via transmitter / receiver 20 to data transmitter / receiver 22 of the betting terminal microprocessor A. In this case, the betting terminal microprocessor A is also connected to the power and data security module B, which comprises a surge protection block 2 connected to the voltage source 1, a backup power supply 3, which are connected to the betting terminal microprocessor A. Further, the data transfer block 4 is connected via the communication network 5 to the betting company headquarters 6, wherein the data transfer block 4 is also connected to the betting terminal microprocessor A.

Another variant of the betting terminal system with wireless connection of the user interface C1 to Cg is shown in Fig. 6. In this variant, the user interface C1 to _Cn comprises a data display 7 and a data input device 8 connected to a transmitter / receiver 20, and a source 21 of the user interface C1 to Cg, which is connected to the data display 7, to the data input device 8, and to the transmitter / receiver 20 of the user interface C. The user interfaces C1 to Cg are wirelessly connected via a transmitter / receiver 20 s the data transmitter / receiver 22 of the betting terminal microprocessor A. In this case, the betting terminal microprocessor A is also connected to the power and data security module B, which comprises a surge protection block 2 connected to a voltage source 1, a backup voltage source 3, which are connected to the betting terminal microprocessor A. Furthermore, the data transmission block 4 is connected via the communication network 5 to the head office 6 of the betting company and also to the microprocessor A of the betting terminal.

In both cases described above, depending on the needs and possibilities of the betting company and the collection point options, the above-described variants can be extended by one or the other, or both additional modules, ie module D of peripheral devices and operator module E, described above.

Industrial applicability

The layout of the betting terminal system can be used wherever any existing shop and service establishment and the interest of the betting clientele reaches at least the minimum sales required for the system to be profitable.This equipment, due to its conceptual and technical solution, is able to offer other (compared to well-known and used technique) above-standard services to meet the needs of the bettor (eg terminal operating instructions, game board, overview of the complete range of number lotteries and sports events with continually updated changes) results or drawn numbers for a certain period of time, the possibility of selecting results and statistics of specific players or teams, continuous and overall results of individual organized competitions, demonstrations of interesting winnings and winnings, interesting facts from the world with Zek and sports summary information for new players, advertising sites or spots, and more presentations).

Claims (4)

PATENT CLAIMS An arrangement of a self-service betting terminal system comprising a betting terminal microprocessor (A) and a power and data security module (B) comprising a surge protection block (2) coupled to a voltage source (1) and a backup voltage source (3); (4) data transmission interconnected via a communication network (5) with a bookmaker's head office (6), characterized in that at least one user interface (C) comprising a data display (7) and a data entry device (8) is connected with a microprocessor (A) of the self-service betting terminal, wherein the user interface (C) forms a separate part of the self-service betting terminal. A self-service betting terminal system arrangement according to claim 1, characterized in that the user interface (C) further comprises a reader and / or a recorder (9) for electronic cards, a device (10) for receiving and / or dispensing cash and a device (9). 11) for issuing a document which is connected to the microprocessor (A) of the betting terminal. The self-service betting terminal system arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a peripheral device module (D) and an operator module (E) comprising a reader and / or a recorder (D) are further connected to the betting terminal microprocessor (A). 9) electronic cards, data display (7), data entry device (8), data report printing device (13) and document issuing device (11). A self-service betting terminal system arrangement according to claim 1, characterized in that the user interface (C) comprises a computer (G) with a microprocessor (F), further comprising a data display (7) and a data entry device (8), it is connected to the microprocessor (A) of the betting terminal.