EA040780B1 - NODE, WIRELESS DEVICE AND ACCESSORY FOR USE IN WIRELESS VISITOR INTERACTION SYSTEM - Google Patents

Description

Cross-references to related applications

This application is a division of EA 201991010 and claims priority of U.S. Patent Application No. 15/459906 filed March 15, 2017 with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/420998 filed November 11, 2016 and No. 62/440938, filed December 30, 2016 with the US Patent and Trademark Office, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

Technical field

The subject of the present invention relates to technologies and equipment for providing automated interaction with site visitors using wireless sensor technologies.

Background of the invention

Visitors to hotels and resorts, cruise ships, and other retail and commercial establishments have come to expect a high level of service and interaction from their hosts. The service may include providing quick access to private and/or restricted areas without the need to show a pass or other form of identification, insert or swipe an access card, or otherwise authenticate oneself in advance. The interaction may include ensuring that the host personally recognizes you and provides services and recommendations based on this, without requiring visitors to identify themselves and remind the host of their preferences or pre-booking.

In the present context, service and interaction is provided only on the basis that users provide their name or identity, swipe or insert an access card, and the receiving party manually receives reservation information through a computer terminal. For example, visitors must present a photo ID and credit card at the time of check-in, a visitor must swipe or insert an access card to operate elevators or unlock the doors of medical facilities and rooms during their stay, and visitors must be identified each time they interact with the concierge, restaurateur or receptionists. As a result, interactions between hosts and visitors are impersonal and disconnected.

The present invention provides an innovative visitor interaction system that relies on recent advances in low power wireless technology and distributed sensor networks to provide innovative visitor services without requiring visitors to identify or log in in advance. The Visitor Engagement System thus allows hosts to interact harmoniously with visitors at their facilities and provide visitors with recommendations based on previous visitor experiences.

The essence of the invention

The ideas set forth in this document provide a system and methods for providing harmonious interaction with visitors to facilities, including (but not limited to) resorts, cruise ships, hotels, convention centers, retailers and other commercial establishments, amusement parks, casinos or other large establishment (or group of establishments), by using wireless sensor technology. These functions are based on the fact that visitors have individual visitor devices used to automatically identify and authenticate visitors throughout the facility, in order to harmoniously provide services to visitors.

The visitor interaction system relies on visitor devices (also called medallions) to periodically broadcast beacons that uniquely identify the devices and associated visitors. The beacon's periodic signals are detected by sensors located throughout the facility and used by the visitor interaction system to provide personalized services. Services include automatic unlocking of doors, including hotel room or cabin doors, based on the close proximity of visitors to the door of their assigned room. The Services also include automatic payment services provided at checkout terminals or point of sale terminals, and automatic login to interactive displays and portals, among other things, based on secure wireless authentication of visitor devices.

The visitor interaction system includes a plurality of visitor devices provided to users of the visitor interaction system, where each visitor device includes a wireless communication antenna and is used to emit a periodic beacon broadcasting a unique visitor device identifier using Bluetooth low energy communication. (BLE). The visitor interaction system further includes a sensor network comprising a plurality of sensors, each of which is installed in a different known location and is used to detect periodic beacon signals containing unique identifiers emitted via BLE communication by visitor devices from a plurality of visitor devices that are close to the sensor. The visitor interaction system further includes a communication network connecting each of

- 1 040780 set of sensor network sensors, and a central server. The central server is communicatively connected to each of the plurality of sensors of the sensor network via a communication network and stores a log linking each unique visitor device identifier detected via BLE communication by the sensor of the sensor network with a known sensor location and timestamp.

The visitor interaction system includes a plurality of visitor devices provided to users of the visitor interaction system, each visitor device having a unique identifier and including first and second wireless antennas, respectively, adapted for Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) communication. and near field communication (NFC). The visitor interaction system further includes a sensor network containing a plurality of sensors, each of which is installed in a different location. At least one sensor of the plurality of sensors is used to detect and receive unique identifiers from visitor devices in its vicinity based on BLE communication with visitor devices, and at least one more sensor of the plurality of sensors is used to detect visitor devices in the vicinity. it, and receiving unique identifiers from them based on NFC communication with visitor devices. The visitor interaction system also includes a communication network connecting each of the plurality of sensor network sensors and a central server. The central server is communicatively connected to each of the plurality of sensor network sensors via a communication network and stores a log linking each unique visitor device ID received via BLE communication or NFC communication by the sensor network sensor.

According to one aspect of the present invention, the node includes a wireless device and an accessory. The wireless device has a cone-shaped device body, including a front surface, a back surface having the same shape as the front surface and larger than the front surface, and a cavity in which the processor and at least one wireless communication antenna are located. The accessory is designed to be worn by a user and has an accessory body having a conical cavity configured to receive a wireless device with the possibility of its removal. The conical cavity includes a rear opening having the same shape as the front and rear surfaces of the device body.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, a wireless device includes a conical shaped housing including a front surface and a back surface having the same shape as the front surface and larger than the front surface. The housing includes a cavity that houses the processor and at least one wireless antenna.

According to another aspect of the present invention, an accessory wearable by a user includes a housing having inner and outer surfaces respectively configured to face towards and away from the wearer while the accessory is being worn. The body has a conical cavity passing between the front hole in the outer surface of the body and the rear hole in the inner surface of the body, and the rear hole has the same shape as the front hole, and the size of the rear hole is larger than the size of the front hole.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, the portable wireless device includes a housing having a fully enclosed cavity, all dimensions of the housing being 2.5 inches or less and the thickness of the housing being 5/8 inch or less. The portable wireless device further includes a processor, a memory, a battery, and first and second wireless communication antennas located in the cavity. The first and second wireless communication antennas are respectively adapted for Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) and Near Field Communication (NFC) communication.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, a portable wireless device includes a housing having a fully enclosed cavity and a processor, a memory, a battery, and first and second wireless communication antennas disposed within the cavity. The first and second wireless communication antennas are respectively adapted for Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) and Near Field Communication (NFC) communication. The housing comprises an open metal ring disposed to substantially surround the housing cavity, and the open metal ring includes at least one opening in which a non-conductive material is located.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, a portable wireless device includes a housing having a fully enclosed cavity and a processor, a memory, a battery, and first and second wireless communication antennas disposed within the cavity. The housing has a truncated cone shape, a circular front surface and a rear surface that is round and has a diameter larger than the diameter of the front surface. The front and back face diameters are 0.75 to 2.5 inches, the body thickness is 1/8 to 5/8 inches, and the angle between

- 2 040780 front surface and side surface of the body in the form of a truncated cone is in the range from 86 to 88°. The first and second wireless communication antennas are respectively adapted for Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) and Near Field Communication (NFC) communication.

According to another aspect of the present invention, an electronic door lock assembly includes a latch assembly, a door lock communication module, and an access panel. The latch assembly includes a latch and an electronically controlled locking mechanism used to selectively unlock the door. The door lock communications module is electrically coupled to the electronically controlled latch assembly and includes a radio capable of wireless communication. The access panel includes a radio capable of wirelessly communicating with a door lock communication module, a first transceiver capable of wirelessly communicating with a user device, and a second transceiver for communicating with a reservation server.

According to another aspect of the present invention, a door latch assembly includes a door handle, a latch selectively actuated by use of the door handle, an electronically controlled locking mechanism used to selectively unlock the latch, and a proximity sensor used to detect user contact with the door handle. handle or close to it.

An electronically controlled locking mechanism is used to selectively unlock the latch based on the user's contact with or proximity to the door handle detected by the proximity sensor.

According to another aspect of the present invention, an access panel for controlling an electronically controlled door lock includes a radio device and first and second transceivers. The radio device is configured to communicate wirelessly with the door lock communication module electrically connected to the electronically controlled locking mechanism. The first transceiver is configured to wirelessly communicate with a user device to identify a user who wishes to actuate the electronically controlled locking mechanism. The second transceiver is configured to communicate with the reservation server storing the identifiers of the users who are authorized to actuate the electronically controlled locking mechanism. The radio, the first transceiver, and the second transceiver each operate according to a different communication standard.

Additional advantages and innovative features will be set forth in part in the following part of the description and in part will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon examination of the following part and accompanying drawings, or may be learned by manufacturing or operating the examples. The benefits of the present teachings can be realized and achieved through the practice or application of various aspects of the techniques, tools and combinations set forth in the detailed examples below.

Brief description of graphic materials

The drawings depict one or more embodiments of the present teachings by way of example only and not limitation. In the figures, like reference numerals refer to the same or like elements.

In FIG. 1A and 1B are high-level functional block diagrams representing the components of a visitor interaction system.

In FIG. 2A-2E and 3A-3E show the medallions or visitor devices used in the visitor interaction system and accessories in which the medallions can be retractably placed.

In FIG. 4A-4F are exploded perspective views of other accessories in which the medallions can be retractably placed.

In FIG. 5A-5L are diagrams illustrating component parts of visitor medallions or devices.

In FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing the functional components of the medallion.

In FIG. 7A-7I show an automated door lock assembly and its components for automatically unlocking a door based on interaction with a medallion.

In FIG. 8A-8N are diagrams showing visitor interaction system sensors and their components.

In FIG. 9 is a high level block diagram depicting additional components, including end devices, visitor interaction systems.

In FIG. 10 shows a perspective view of a gaming station that may be used as part of a visitor interaction system.

In FIG. 11 and 12 show simplified block diagrams of computer hardware platforms that may be used to implement the functions of a visitor interaction system.

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Detailed description of the invention

In the following detailed description, numerous specific features are set forth by way of examples in order to provide a proper understanding of the related ideas. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the present ideas can be put into practice without such features. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, components, and/or circuits have been described at a relatively high level without detail in order to avoid unnecessarily complicating aspects of the present teachings.

The various techniques and equipment systems described herein enable automated interaction with users or visitors to a facility using wireless sensor technologies.

The visitor interaction system is based on wireless sensor technologies to securely identify visitors based on medallions that visitors wear or carry, and to automatically provide services to visitors based on reliable identification. The system further provides an improved visitor experience by maintaining a database of visitor locations and experiences, and allows for the harmonious provision of services to the visitor regardless of location.

In FIG. 1A is a general block diagram depicting the components of the visitor interaction system 10. The visitor interaction system 10 of FIG. 1A may be provided in a facility such as a ship (for example, a cruise ship), a hotel, a restaurant, a resort, a convention center, a medical center or other medical facility, a retail or other commercial establishment, an entertainment facility (for example, a concert hall, a cinema, an arena or a stadium, amusement park, or casino), a transportation hub (such as an airport, seaport or terminal, train or bus station, transfer hub), or any other facility or combination of such facilities. In one example, the facility may be a cruise ship that accommodates a large number of visitors, or a cruise line that includes multiple cruise ships, associated shore facilities (e.g., port facilities), and partner facilities (e.g., partner facilities that provide onshore activities for cruise visitors). ). In another example, the entity may be a resort including one or more hotels, restaurants, theatres, amusement parks, and other related entities distributed across one or more geographic locations. In yet another example, an object may be a group of objects associated with a particular event, such as a conference or trade show, including the locations of multiple partner establishments (eg, hotels, restaurants, museums, arenas, malls, or other retail locations). Users of the visitor interaction system are generally referred to herein as visitors 12. In the example of a cruise ship, visitors 12 include cruise passengers and more broadly may include stewards, staff and other users of visitor devices 11. In other examples, visitors 12 may include any person interacting with the visitor interaction system 10, including users of visitor devices 11. Thus, the term visitors 12 may refer to patients, nurses, physicians, and attendants, among other users, in the illustrative context of a medical or healthcare facility; visitors to conferences and/or exhibitors in the illustrative context of a convention center; customers, staff, travelers, sales personnel, and others in illustrative contexts of various types of business enterprises.

The visitor interaction system 10 is configured to communicate wirelessly with visitor devices 11, such as medallions worn or carried by visitors 12, each of which provides a unique identification of the associated visitor and is configured to communicate securely with the visitor interaction system 10. visitors. In the examples detailed herein, visitor devices 11 are in the form of medallions and will be referred to generically herein as medallions. However, the devices/medallions 11 may have other formats, and thus the term medallion is not intended to limit the scope of visitor devices 11 that can be used as part of the system 10. Visitor devices/medallions 11 are preferably lightweight and compact so that users can easily You can wear them on yourself or with you. Visitor devices/medallions 11 are configured to communicate using at least one wireless communication technology/protocol and are preferably configured to communicate using two or more separate wireless communication technologies/protocols. For example, the medallion 11 may be configured to communicate in accordance with both the Near Field Communication (NFC) and Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) standards, although the medallion 11 may generally operate using only one of the standards at any given time. time to reduce energy consumption.

The visitor interaction system 10 includes a sensor network 13 consisting of sensors 15 installed throughout the facility and configured to wirelessly

- 4 040780 Noah connection with the medallions of 11 visitors. The sensor 15 of the network 13 may be used to detect the location of the visitor (or proximity to the sensor 15), for example, by detecting beacon signals or other signals emitted by the medallion 11. The sensor 15 may also engage in two-way communication with the medallion 11 to transmit information to the medallion 11 and getting information from him. The sensor 15 may also be located or otherwise associated with a particular interface device 17 or system interface function, such as a sensor associated with a door lock 17a, an automatic door or turnstile, a vending machine 17b, a cash register, a slot machine, an interactive display 17c, or portal 17d, or the like. In some situations, the sensor 15 is installed inside the interface device 17, while in other situations, the sensor 15 associated with the interface device 17 is installed near the interface device. For example, the point sensor may be placed over the location where the user will be interacting with the interface device 17 (e.g., over a location directly ahead of and within about 1 foot of the interface device 17) such that only beacon signals are detected. emitted by user medallions immediately in front of and near the interface device 17. When sensor 15 is associated with a particular interface device 17 or interface function, it can participate in two-way communication with the medallion 11 and provide a secure communication channel between the device and the medallion, for example, to provide automatic unlocking of the door lock based on the reliable authentication of the medallion of a particular visitor.

The visitor interaction system 10 may further use end devices, such as BLE-enabled mobile devices, tablet computers, or interactive displays, to provide services to visitors by detecting (and communicating with) the medallions 11. The services provided by the end devices can be provided in addition to the above services provided by the sensors 15 of the sensor network 13 and interface devices 17 for providing services. As described in more detail below (see, for example, the description of FIG. 9), services provided by end devices may include location-related services (including determining the location of medallions based on end device detection of beacons from medallions, and reporting detected medallions and locations to the system server 21), and the medallions entering or exiting various modes of operation (eg, sleep, beacon, and bidirectional modes), among other services.

The visitor interaction system 10 also includes one or more servers 21 communicatively connected to the sensor network 13, to interface devices 17, and wirelessly to medallions 11 via various sensors 15 located throughout the visitor interaction system 10 and across the corresponding object. One or more communication networks 19 enable communications between different elements of system 10. In one example, visitor interaction system 10 includes at least one authentication server used to authenticate visitor medallions and provide encryption and decryption services. The system may further include one or more servers storing visitor information databases (e.g., reservations made by visitors), payment transaction servers (e.g., including billing information for visitors) with location information (e.g., location sensors 15 within the object and the location of medallions 11 within the object and elsewhere), etc.

Detailed descriptions of the various components of the visitor interaction system 10 will now be presented with reference to the accompanying graphics. The descriptions are focused on illustrative embodiments of the system components and do not limit the scope of the features and functions of the components and the system.

Two different sensor structures 15 may be used in the system. In one example, each individual sensor 15 in the visitor interaction system 10 includes a processor and a memory that at least partially controls the operation of the sensor 15. In such an example, each sensor may further comprise a network transceiver , containing a communication port for connecting with the possibility of communication of the sensor 15 with the communication network 19. The network transceiver may be an Ethernet transceiver, Wi-Fi, or other suitable transceiver.

Alternatively or additionally, the visitor interaction system 10 may include sensor network peripherals 14 distributed throughout the facility and applied such that the sensors 15 are directly attached to them. In such an example, in FIG. 1B is a general block diagram showing a more detailed view of the sensor network 13 of the visitor interaction system 10 showing the sensor network peripherals 14 that are used to connect the sensors 15 to the communication network 19. Specifically, as shown in the figure, each sensor 15 of the sensor network 13 is directly connected to a respective sensor network peripheral 14, and each is powered by and controlled by a respective sensor network peripheral 14. In turn, the peripheral devices 14 of the sensor network are connected to the communication network 19 and communicate with the servers 21 via the network 19.

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Each sensor network peripheral typically includes a network transceiver for communicating with the communications network 19, such as an Ethernet transceiver, Wi-Fi, or other suitable network transceiver. Each sensor network peripheral 14 further includes at least one port for connecting to at least one associated sensor 15. For example, sensor network peripheral 14 typically includes one or more communication buses through which there may be several sensors 15 or other devices are connected. For example, sensor network peripheral 14 may include two buses, each used to connect up to sixteen sensors 15 in one example. Through these connections, the peripheral devices 14 of the sensor network serve to transmit sensory information received by the sensors 15 to the communication network 19 and to the servers 21 and to transmit control signals or communication signals from the communication network 19 and from the servers 21 back to the sensors 15. Peripheral devices 14 sensor networks can additionally transmit data or other communication signals received from medallions 11 by sensors 15 to communication network 19 and servers 21 and transmit control signals or communication signals from communication network 19 and from servers 21 back to medallions 11 via sensors 15.

Each of the sensor network peripherals 14 includes a processor and a memory and is used to control the operation of the sensor(s) 15 connected to it. In particular, the use of a sensor network peripheral 14 may allow the visitor interaction system 10 to operate with sensors 15 having little or no native processing power and storage space, and sensors 15 requiring minimal setup during initial system setup. In particular, due to the use of sensor network peripherals 14, individual sensors 15 do not need to store individual network identifiers (e.g., unique network addresses) for use by sensors 15 to identify them in the communication network 19 and to identify the data transmitted by each respective sensor 15 in the network 19 as coming from the respective sensor 15. Instead, the sensor network peripherals 14 are configured to package the data received from the sensors 15 connected to them for transmission over the network 19, and in particular are configured to link the data received from each respective sensor 15 with an identifier for the respective sensor 15. The sensor network peripherals 14 are further configured to package data from the sensors 15 for transmission over the network 19. In addition, the individual sensors 15 do not need to be able to communicate on the network 19 and each respective sensor 15 is not needed but have sufficient processing power to identify and process the packets destined for the respective sensor from the packets transmitted over the network 19. Instead, the sensor network peripherals 14 are configured to process the data transmitted over the network 19 to identify the packets destined for the respective the sensor network peripheral 14 and/or the sensors 15 connected thereto to process the commands contained in the packets and control the respective sensors 15 connected thereto according to the processed commands.

As described above, the use of sensor network peripherals 14 thus allows the wireless visitor interaction system 10 to operate using low cost sensors 15 containing no network communication circuitry and having no or minimal processing power and storage space. Additionally, the use of sensor network peripherals 14 allows the wireless visitor interaction system 10 to be configured and deployed without having to assign separate network identifiers to each sensor 15 and/or without having to configure servers 21 using information about each individual sensor 15 in the system. Instead, the wireless visitor interaction system 10 can be configured to operate by attaching a plurality of sensors 15 directly to nearby sensor network peripherals 14 located throughout the facility, and by configuring the sensor network peripherals 14 to communicate via the network 19 to servers 21 .

Although the foregoing discussion has focused on sensor network peripherals 14 coupled directly to sensors 15 capable of detecting the presence of and/or communicating with medallions 11, sensor network 13 and sensor network peripherals 14 may more widely support other types of sensors or devices (generally referred to as 16 in FIG. 1B). Namely, the sensor network 13 and sensor network peripherals 14 can be used to control the operation and transfer sensor data from other sensors or devices 16 over the communication network 19 . Sensors or devices 16 may include sensors such as smoke or CO (carbon monoxide) detectors, infrared or presence sensors, photodiodes or photosensitive sensors, temperature and/or humidity sensors, and the like. Other sensors or devices 16 may also include devices such as speakers and/or microphones (for example, parts of a general public address (PA) system), actuators or controllers (for example, to open or close vents or window shades), switches or a relay (for example, to turn on/off lighting, heating and ventilation, electricity), a camera (for example, as part of a security system), etc. Sensor network peripherals 14 may further be configured to support sensors installed in vending machines 17b, interactive displays 17c, and other interface devices 17 described herein (or associated with them).

The functions provided by the sensor network peripherals 14 may also be embedded in other components of the wireless visitor interaction system 10 . In particular, the functions of the sensor network peripherals 14 may be embedded in components such as a processor, a memory, and a network transceiver to communicate on the communication network 19. For example, as shown in FIG. 1B, the access panel 705 provided in conjunction with the door lock 17a may be configured to be used as a sensor network peripheral 14. It should be noted that the access panel 705 is described in more detail below with reference to FIG. 7A-7I. In the example shown in FIG. 1B, access panel 705 may include at least one port and/or bus for connecting one or more sensors 15 thereto, and access panel 705 may be configured to support operation of sensors 15 as described above with respect to peripheral devices 14. sensor network.

As described above, visitor device 11 may be in the form of a medallion 11, such as the illustrative medallion 11 shown in FIG. 2A. As shown, the medallion 11 is in the form of a token having an outer diameter of approximately 1.25 inches (range 0.75 to 2.5 inches), a thickness of approximately 3/8 inches (range 1/8 to 5/8 inches) and weight approximately 1.8 ounces (range 1.2 to 2.4 ounces).

The medallion 11 is designed to be inserted into various accessories worn by the visitors 12. The accessories allow the medallions 11 to be securely fastened to the visitors 12 so as to ensure that visitors do not accidentally lose or forget their medallions. In FIG. 2B shows an exemplary accessory 201 in the form of a wrist strap or bracelet. Other types of accessories, including cords, pendants, key chains, necklaces, buckles, swimwear (eg, bikini rings), body piercings, and the like, some of which are depicted in FIGS. 4A-4F may also be used. The medallion 11 is designed to be inserted into the cavity of the hand strap accessory 201, the shape and size of which allows it to receive the medallion 11. As shown, the medallion 11 is inserted through the back of the hand strap accessory 201, i. through the side of the accessory 201 that is designed to face the wearer, such as the inner surface of the hand strap that is designed to contact the user's wrist when the hand strap is worn. The medallion 11 is inserted through the back of the hand strap accessory 201 in order to prevent the medallion 11 from accidentally slipping out of the accessory 201 when the accessory 201 is put on the wearer. In particular, as shown in FIG. 2C, the accessory cavity 201 configured to receive the medallion may be tapered and thus have a slanted or beveled edge, allowing the medallion 11 to be inserted into the accessory cavity 201 but preventing it from passing through the cavity and exiting the accessory 201 through its front. surface. In the example shown in FIG. 2C, the slope of the edge is approximately 3° with respect to the rectangular edge (corresponding to an angle of 87° with respect to the front or back surface). More precisely, the cavity in the example shown in FIG. 2C may not have a cylindrical shape, but instead may have a conical shape, such as a truncated cone shape in the form of a segment of a cone having a circular base and edges that are inclined relative to the circular base at a predetermined angle (e.g., 3° (+/-1° ) relative to a rectangular edge, which corresponds to an angle of 87° (in the range of 86-88°) relative to the front or back surface). The angle is such that the back/bottom opening of the cavity is larger than the front/top opening, so as to prevent the medallion 11 from passing through the cavity.

Likewise, the medallion 11 may have a conical shape having an inclined edge along its outer circumferential surface, and the edge may be inclined at a predetermined angle equal to the angle of the cavity (for example, 3° (+/-1°) relative to the rectangular edge, which corresponds to the angle 87° (in the range of 86-88°) relative to the front or rear surface), as also shown in FIG. 2C. The slanted edge of the medallion is designed such that the medallion has a smaller size (e.g., smaller diameter) on the front/top surface 11a of the medallion 11 compared to the back/bottom surface 11b of the medallion 11. As such, the combination of the sloping edges of the medallion 11 and the cavity in the accessory 201 provides that the medallion can be placed in the accessory 201 only so that the front surface 11a of the medallion 11 faces outward while the back surface 11b faces back. Additionally, the size of the medallion 11 may be slightly smaller than the size of the cavity in order to facilitate the fit of the medallion 11 within the cavity. For example, the medallion 11 may have an outer dimension, such as an outer diameter, that is 0.75 mm (e.g., in the range of 0.5-1 mm) less than the inner dimension/diameter of the cavity, in order to allow the medallion 11 to be inserted into the cavity, even if the medallion is not perfectly aligned with the cavity and/or is at an angle to the cavity.

As a result, the locket can be easily and securely connected to the accessory 201 due to the following features. Medallion 11 has a slanted edge at a predetermined angle (e.g. 3°)

- 7 040780 from the front surface of the medallion to the back surface so as to be aligned with the oppositely shaped slanted edge of the accessory 201. The design of the slanted edge allows the medallion 11 to be aligned with the accessory by inserting the medallion on the back side of the accessory. Since the medallion 11 can only be inserted or removed from the back of the accessory 201, the forces required to move the medallion 11 out of the accessory 201 are directed backwards and thus directed towards the body of the visitor wearing the accessory 201 (and/or directed towards another surface obstructing easy movement of the medallion) when the medallion is in the accessory 201. As such, the medallion 11 cannot be easily displaced or removed from the accessory 201 when the accessory 201 is worn.

The above description has focused on the medallions 11 having round shapes and the corresponding cavities having round shapes. However, the present invention is not limited to such medallions and cavities. More generally, the medallions 11 and corresponding accessory cavities may be oval or other rounded shapes, or square, rectangular or other angular shapes (eg, triangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, etc.). In each case, the medallions 11 and the corresponding cavities may have conical shapes containing oblique edges located at a predetermined angle (for example, 3°) from the front surface of the medallion to the back surface in such a way as to ensure that the medallion 11 can only be inserted or removed through the back side of the accessory 201. In such cases, the front and rear surfaces of the medallions 11 may have substantially similar (or identical) shapes and different sizes in order to cone the medallions 11, and the cavities in the accessories may similarly have front and rear openings having substantially similar (or identical) shapes and different sizes in order to conical the cavities.

Additionally, medallion 11 and accessory 201 may include magnets used to automatically position medallion 11 in a predetermined angular orientation relative to the cavity of accessory 201 (eg self-alignment of medallion 11 in accessory 201). The magnets further provide a magnetic attraction between medallion 11 and accessory 201 to reduce the likelihood of medallion 11 separating from accessory 201 (and/or falling out of it). For this purpose, a different number of magnets can be used. For example, two, three, four, five or more magnets may be used. The magnets may be evenly distributed on the circumferential sides of the medallion 11 and the cavity, or in more general cases may be spaced at predetermined locations on the circumferential sides chosen so that each magnet installed in the medallion 11 is aligned with a corresponding magnet installed on the periphery of the cavity, when the medallion 11 is inserted in the desired orientation into the cavity of the accessory.

As shown in FIG. 2D, four magnets may be provided in accessory 201 at matching locations with the four magnets provided in locket 11 to ensure that locket 11 is always oriented in the correct position with respect to the X and Y axes. In particular, magnets with opposite polarity may be provided. at each location in medallion 11 and accessory 201 as shown in FIG. 2E to automatically align the medallion 11 into a specific angular orientation relative to the accessory 201. For example, in the magnetic coupling mechanism shown in FIG. 2E, the magnets on the top of medallion 11 and accessory 201 (e.g., top in the orientation shown in FIG. 2D) have polarities opposite to those of the magnets on the bottom of medallion 11 and accessory 201 (e.g., bottom in the orientation shown in FIG. 2D). ) so as to prevent insertion of the medallion 11 in an upside-down angular position with respect to the orientation shown in FIG. 2D and 2E. This feature, together with the slanted edges described in connection with FIG. 2B and 2C allows medallion 11 to be inserted into accessory 201 in only (or preferably) one orientation. As shown in FIG. 3A, medallion 11 may have a metal outer rim and a plastic body located within the metal outer rim. The electronic components contained in the medallion 11 are installed inside the plastic case. The metal outer bezel is interrupted at least in one place to form an open ring and includes a plastic or other non-conductive spacer within the formed gap. For example, in the embodiment depicted in FIG. 3A, the metal outer rim is formed from two separate semi-circular metal casings which, when placed along the outer rim of medallion 11, are separated from each other by two diametrically opposed gaps. The gaps in the metal outer rim (or between parts of the metal outer rim) do not allow eddy currents to move around the metal outer rim and thus prevent the wireless communication capabilities of the medallions 11 due to eddy currents from being significantly degraded. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 3E, the circular metal housing may include one or more gaps filled with injection molded plastic. As also shown in FIG. 3E, the circular metal casing may include depressions for receiving magnets, such as those described above with respect to FIG. 2D-2E. In general, the metallic outer ring is made of a non-magnetic metallic material and may be made of polished aluminium, for example.

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A similar gap in the metal outer rim may be contained in accessories 201 as shown in FIG. 3B. More specifically, in embodiments in which accessory 201 is metal or includes metal components around the periphery of the cavity configured to receive medallion 11, accessory 201 includes a gap in the metal outer rim of the cavity. A gap in the metal outer rim (or between parts of the metal outer rim) prevents eddy currents from traveling around the metal outer rim and thus prevents the wireless communication capability of the medallion 11 housed in the accessory 201 from being significantly degraded due to eddy current. To ensure that the gaps in the metal outer rims of the medallion 11 and the accessory 201 work properly, the gaps of the medallion 11 and the accessory 201 must be aligned when the medallion 11 is installed in the accessory 201. Namely, the alignment of the gaps ensures that even when the outer metal rims of the medallion 11 and the accessory come into contact 201 with each other, the metal rims do not collectively form a closed metal loop around the electronic components of medallion 11. In order to ensure gap alignment, magnets such as those described above with respect to FIG. 2D and 2E can be used to provide the desired angular alignment of the medallion 11 within the accessory 201. The geometry and polarity of the magnets are chosen to cause the medallion to self-orientate itself in the accessory in which the gaps in the metal outer rings are aligned with each other (e.g., adjacent to each other or in contact with each other).

The gaps in medallion 11 and accessory 201 have widths chosen to ensure that a closed metal loop is not formed even if medallion 11 and accessory 201 are not perfectly aligned. Alternatively or additionally, an insulating pad 41, such as a plastic or other insulating pad, shown in FIG. 3C and 3D may be provided along the inside surface of the cavity in accessory 201 accommodating medallion 11. An insulating liner 41 may extend around the entire circumference of the cavity, or an insulating liner 41 may be positioned to contact a gap in the metal outer rim of the medallion 11 when the medallion 11 is installed in the desired orientation in the accessory 201. The insulating spacer 41 prevents the accessory 201 metal rim from shorting across the gap in the metal outer rim of the medallion 11 by providing insulation between the gap in the metal outer rims of the medallion 11 and the accessory 201.

As shown in FIG. 2B, accessory 201 may be in the form of a wrist strap. However, other accessory formats may also be used. For example, in FIG. 4A-4E show various other types of accessories capable of accommodating medallions 11 inserted therein. In this connection, FIG. 4A shows an accessory in the form of a sports strap, including a sports strap (made of, for example, silicone), a retaining ring (made, for example, of stainless steel and containing a gap filled with non-conductive material 31), which is inserted into the sports strap and contains recesses to accommodate magnets, and a two-piece clasp designed to fasten the strap around the user's wrist. In its center, the locking ring contains a cavity designed to receive the medallion 11 with the possibility of its removal. In FIG. 4B shows a paperclip (made of, for example, aluminium) containing a cavity configured to receive the locket 11 to be removed and further comprising a gap filled with non-conductive material 31 around the periphery of the cavity. In some examples, a paperclip may be attached to a key fob. In FIG. 4C shows a wristband (made of, for example, nylon) containing a retaining ring (made of, for example, stainless steel and containing a gap filled with a non-conductive material, such as plastic) that is inserted into the wristband and contains recesses for holding magnets. In its center, the locking ring contains a cavity designed to receive the medallion 11 with the possibility of its removal.

In FIG. 4D shows a bracelet (made of, for example, stainless steel, containing a gap 32 filled with non-conductive material 31) and a fixing ring 33 (made, for example, of stainless steel and containing a gap filled with non-conductive material 31), which is inserted into the bracelet and contains recesses 34 to hold the magnets. In its center, the locking ring contains a cavity designed to receive the medallion 11 with the possibility of its extraction. In FIG. 4E shows a suspension (made of, for example, stainless steel, containing a gap 32 filled with non-conductive material 31) and a fixing ring 33 (made, for example, of stainless steel and containing a gap filled with non-conductive material 31), which is inserted into the suspension and contains recesses. to hold magnets. In its center, the fixing ring contains a cavity designed to receive the medallion 11 with the possibility of its removal. In some examples, the pendant is configured to be attached to a decorative chain for wear by the visitor. In other examples, the pendant is configured to attach to a key ring or other item. Finally, in FIG. 4F shows the mount configured to be worn with a watch-like strap. The fastener (made, for example, of stainless steel, containing a gap filled with non-conductive material) has a fixing ring (made, for example, of stainless steel and containing a gap filled with non-conductive material 31),

- 9 040780 which is inserted into the mount and contains grooves to hold the magnets.

The accessories shown in Fig. 4A-4E are non-limiting examples of accessories in which medallions 11 can be mounted. However, other types of accessories can also be used, including cords, pendants, key chains, necklaces, buckles, swimwear (e.g., bikini rings), body piercings, and the like. .P.

The above description of the medallions 11 has focused on the external features of the medallions 11, such as the medallions shown in FIG. 5A. Namely, in Fig. 5A shows top, bottom, and side views of an exemplary medallion 11. In the following description of FIG. 5B-5E similarly discuss the internal structures of various medallion embodiments.

As shown in FIG. 5B, 5C, 5D, and 5E, various embodiments of medallions 11 include magnets 501, bottom cover 503, foam core 505, battery assembly 507 (e.g., CR2025 battery), insulation film spacer 509, printed circuit board assembly (PCBA). ) 511, a 513 BLE antenna (such as a BLE J-shaped antenna), an NFC antenna 515 (such as a wire coil antenna), a metal case 517 (such as aluminum), and a top cover 519. The 513 BLE antenna can be soldered to the top surface of the PCB 511, while the NFC antenna 515 can be attached to the PCB 511 using spring contacts. In the embodiment of FIG. 5E, the 515 NFC antenna is coated with silicone for strength. As shown in FIG. 5B, the magnets 501 may be placed in recesses provided in the top cover 519 (or alternatively in the bottom cover 503) and held in place by the recesses. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 5E, the magnets 501 may be placed in recesses provided in the silicone covering the NFC antenna 515 and may be held in place by the recesses.

In the embodiment of FIG. 5B, 5D, and 5E, the metal case 517 is fabricated separately from the bottom and top covers 503 and 519. The metal case 517 may be made of aluminum or other metal, while the bottom and top covers 503 and 519 may be made of plastic. In contrast, in the embodiment of FIG. 5C, the top cover 519 is integral with the metal case 517. For example, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 5C, top cover 519 and metal case 517 may be machined from a block of material including metal and plastic materials arranged in the block such that after machining, top cover 519 has an open metal ring (e.g., at 517) positioned around it. an outer peripheral surface that is interrupted by one or more gaps filled with plastic or other insulating material. Additionally, after machining, the top cover 519 has a plastic (or insulating) center. To this end, the block of material used for machining may be plastic-impregnated metal.

In FIG. 5F and 5G are detailed views of the assembled PCB boards 511 used in the medallions 11, detailing a BLE J-antenna mounted on the top surface of the PCB board. As shown in FIG. 5F, the J-shaped BLE antenna may be formed from stamped steel, include machined bent contacts, and include alignment rods for placement on a PCB. The rods can also provide ground and power connections. As shown in FIG. 5G, the J-shaped BLE antenna may be formed by a direct laser structuring (LDS) process as an injection-molded, metal-plated plastic piece, and may include latches on the bottom of the molded piece used for placement and alignment on the PCB.

Detailed circuits of the J-shaped BLE antenna are shown in FIG. 5H-5L. In FIG. 5H-5K show detailed schematic views of the BLE antenna from the front, side, back, and bottom, respectively, while FIG. 5L shows a perspective view of a BLE antenna. Antenna dimensions and dimensional tolerances are shown in the figures in millimeters (mm). The dimensions shown are illustrative and the BLE antenna may be scaled up or down from the dimensions shown depending on the particular application in which the BLE antenna element is intended to be used. In the embodiment shown in the figures, the dimensions of the antenna are set such that the overall length of the antenna allows the antenna to resonate at the desired frequency in the 2.4 GHz band, for example, by setting the overall length of the radiating element to approximately _1/4 wavelength at 2.4 GHz. In addition, the radius of curvature of the J-shaped antenna can be set to maximize the radius of curvature of the antenna within the spatial constraints set by the cavity of the medallion in which the antenna is located, while ensuring that the antenna does not contact the metal outer ring of the medallion.

In embodiments where the J-shaped BLE antenna is formed by a direct laser structuring (LDS) process as an injection molded plastic piece coated with a metal, the rear surface (depicted in FIG. 5J) may be formed from an injection molded plastic piece. , while the front surface (depicted in FIG. 5H) may be essentially completely covered with metal. The metal coating formed on the front surface may extend to the rear surface, namely, it may extend into those parts of the rear surface that are shown in gray tone in FIG. 5J. In particular, the metal coating may extend along the top edge 521 of the J antenna to the rear surface of the antenna and thus provide an antenna ground terminal that is electrically connected to the ground terminal of the PCBA 511. rear surface of the antenna and thus provide a radio lead electrically connected to the PCBA 511. Thus, in operation, the PCBA 511 can apply signals between the ground lead (at 521) and the radio lead (at 523) in order to emit BLE signals from using an antenna, and can detect signals on those pins to receive BLE signals using an antenna.

Additionally, as shown in the cross-sectional view shown in FIG. 5I, the J-shaped antenna has a non-planar profile including two fold points used to raise the antenna element above the ground plane of PCBA 511. By positioning the antenna element high above the ground plane, the antenna element can radiate more RF energy. Finally, the corners of the J-shaped antenna can be laser trimmed to be non-rectangular (90° angle) to allow fine frequency tuning.

In FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing the functional components of the medallion 11. The components shown in FIG. 6, including microprocessor 603, memory 601, transceivers 607 and 609, and sensor 605 form part of the PCBA 511 shown in FIG. 5B-5E.

As shown in FIG. 6, medallion 11 includes a memory 601, a microprocessor 603, optional sensor(s) 605 such as an accelerometer, one or more transceivers 607, 609, respective antennas 513, 515, and a battery 507. The components may be connected to communication and/or electrically connected to each other via circuits integrated into the PCB board of the PCBA assembly 511. be performed by the microprocessor 603 in order to cause the medallion 11 to perform functions such as those described in this text. In addition to the program instructions, the memory 601 stores a unique identifier used by the visitor interaction system 10 to uniquely identify each medallion. The storage device 610 may also store encryption and decryption keys and encrypted data. For example, in one example, the storage device stores both a public identifier for the medallion 11, which uniquely identifies the medallion and is broadcast in the beacon emitted by the medallion, and a private identifier, which also uniquely identifies the medallion, is stored in an encrypted format in the storage device and is used to securely medallion authentication (for example, for use in payments and for unlocking doors). Additionally, microprocessor 603 is communicatively coupled to one or more optional sensors 605, such as an accelerometer sensor, and one or more transceivers 607, 609.

As indicated above, the medallion includes at least one transceiver and an associated antenna configured to wirelessly communicate with the visitor interaction system 10. As shown, medallion 11 includes two transceivers, each operating in accordance with a different communication standard. In this example, the first transceiver 607 operates in accordance with the BLE standard and is connected to the corresponding antenna 513 used for BLE communication, while the second transceiver 609 operates in accordance with the NFC standard (for example, the radio frequency identification (RFID) standard) and is connected to the corresponding antenna. 515 code used for NFC communication. Although each transceiver is shown to have a dedicated antenna (FIG. 6), in some embodiments, two or more transceivers may share the same antenna.

As described above, the BLE transceiver and antenna are used by the medallion 11 to emit periodic beacon signals that allow the visitor interaction system 10 to determine the location and identity of the visitor and provide services to the visitor. The BLE transceiver and antenna can also be used for secure communications. However, operation of the BLE transceiver and antenna generally requires battery 507 to provide sufficient power for medallion 11 to operate. communication using BLE signals. However, in such situations, the medallion can still function as a passive NFC/RFID device. In particular, to function as a passive NFC/RFID device, the medallion does not need battery power to operate. Instead, the medallion uses the energy received through the NFC antenna from radio signals to operate, causing the passage of an electric current in the antenna. When operating as a passive NFC/RFID device, the medallion can be adapted to transmit signals including the medallion's unique identifier in response to receiving RFID request signals or other signals that cause sufficient electrical current to flow through the antenna. Thus, the visitor interaction system 10 can

- 11 040780 be able to provide limited visitor services even if visitor medallions do not receive adequate operating power from their batteries.

When the battery 507 provides sufficient power to operate the BLE transceiver, the medallion 11 is configured to operate in three different modes of operation. In particular, the memory 601 stores program instructions which, when executed by the microprocessor 603, cause the medallion 11 to operate according to one selected mode of the three modes of operation. Initially, when the medallion 11 is first activated by equipping the battery 507, the medallion 11 operates in a sleep mode. Sleep mode is a very low power mode that conserves battery power. In the sleep mode, the medallion 11 periodically listens to the network for network notifications from the recognized visitor interaction system 10 and remains in the sleep mode until a notification is received from the recognized visitor interaction system 10. In sleep mode, the medallion 11 listens to the network for network announcements at periodic intervals, such as every 30 seconds, every minute, every 5 minutes, or the like. If a network notification is received during the periodic listening period, the medallion 11 determines whether the notification was sent by the recognized visitor interaction system 10 and, after determining that the notification was sent from the recognized visitor interaction system 10, the medallion 11 switches to a bidirectional operation mode.

In the bi-directional mode of operation, the medallion 11 is adapted to both emit a beacon signal via the BLE transceiver 607 and antenna 513 and sniff the network for messages from the recognized visitor interaction system 10 via the transceiver 607 and antenna 513. The medallion 11 can further sniff the network for messages via transceiver 609 and antenna 515 NFC in bi-directional mode of operation. The medallion 11 listens to the network for messages from the recognized visitor interaction system 10 on a periodic basis in a bi-directional mode of operation, such as every 10 ms, every 100 ms, or the like. Additional details on bi-directional operation are provided below in relation to the description of the door lock. The medallion 11 may continue to operate in a bi-directional mode of operation until the medallion 11 receives a message from the recognized visitor interaction system 10 that causes the mode of operation to switch to beacon mode. Bidirectional operation may consume more power than sleep mode.

In beacon mode, medallion 11 is adapted to emit a beacon signal via transceiver 607 and BLE antenna 513. Optionally, the medallion may periodically listen to the network for messages from the recognized visitor interaction system 10 via the BLE transceiver 607 and antenna 513, but in beacon mode, the listening periods occur less frequently (e.g., every 1 s, every 5 s, or so on) than in bidirectional mode. As a result, the beacon mode of operation is associated with lower power consumption than the bidirectional mode of operation, but with more power consumption than the sleep mode of operation. Periodic listening periods in the beacon mode of operation are used to listen to the network for messages from the recognized visitor interaction system 10 leading to the switch of the mode of operation to the bidirectional mode of operation.

In both bidirectional and beacon modes of operation, periodic beacon signals are transmitted from medallion 11. In general, beacon signals contain a unique medallion identifier and are transmitted on a periodic basis (e.g., every 10 ms, every 100 ms, every second, or the like). .). The beacon signals can be detected by the sensors 15 of the recognized visitor interaction system 10 and used by the visitor interaction system 10 to determine the approximate location of the medallion 11 within the facility. The beacon signals are also used by the recognized visitor interaction system 10 to provide services to the visitor, as described in more detail below.

The medallions 11 communicate wirelessly with the sensors 15 of the recognized visitor interaction system 10 to allow the visitor interaction system to provide automated interaction with users or visitors to the facility in which the sensors 15 are installed. Although the sensors 15 may be installed throughout the facility, some sensors 15 are installed or otherwise associated with a particular interface device 17 or system interface function. As shown in FIG. 1A, interface devices 17 include door locks 17a, automatic doors or turnstiles, vending machines 17b, cash registers, slot machines, interactive displays 17c or portals 17d, and the like. The particular interface device 17 providing the functionality of the door lock 17a is described in detail below with reference to FIG. 7A-7I.

The door lock 17a allows visitors to gain access to their cabin on a cruise ship, resort room, or other restricted facility (such as a VIP lounge, spa, fitness center, elevator system, or the like) simply by approaching the door by reaching out to the doorknob and opening the door, which is automatically unlocked based on wireless communication with the medallions of 11 visitors. Namely, the door lock 17a detects the presence of the medallion 11 in front of (or in close proximity to) the door and unlocks the door for the authorized visitor(s) or service personnel (for example, stewards, maids or facility maintenance personnel). Additionally, the door lock 17a may include a display panel that provides the visitor with a visual and audible welcome and may provide real-time information about upcoming events to the visitor and/or messages from crew, staff, or other participants in the event in which the visitor is participating. The door lock display panel may include a panel-mounted camera used to record images and videos of unauthorized persons attempting to enter the room, as well as images of the crew, staff members, and others who gain access to the room.

In FIG. 7A-7I illustrate an assembly of an automated door lock 700 providing the functionality of a door lock 17a to automatically unlock a door based on interaction with a visitor's medallion 11. As shown in FIG. 7A, the automated door lock assembly 700 may be used on a ship (eg, cruise ship) or hotel to selectively unlock the door of a visitor's room (eg, cabin or hotel room). Namely, the automated door lock assembly 700 may be used to selectively unlock the door of a visitor's room to allow entry into the room. In general, the door is left unlocked from the inside of the room at all times to allow visitors to leave the room unhindered.

The automated door lock assembly 700 includes a latch assembly 701, shown in more detail in FIG. 7E, 7G, and 7I, a door lock module 703 that selectively unlocks a latch assembly 701 and an access panel 705 mounted proximate the door. The 701 latch assembly includes a latch and a lever door handle, a round door handle, or other mechanical component(s) providing the functions of a lever/round door handle, and is generally installed within the door it controls. The latch assembly 701 also includes an electronically controlled locking and unlocking mechanism, such as a solenoid operated locking mechanism. The locking and unlocking mechanism of the latch assembly 701 is controlled by the door lock module 703, which is an electronic module used to send lock and unlock signals to the electronic lock mechanism. The latch assembly 701 typically also includes a mechanical locking and unlocking mechanism, such as a key-operated mechanism that allows the door to be unlocked with a physical key.

The door lock module 703 is electrically connected to the latch assembly 701, and more specifically to the locking mechanism of the latch assembly 701, via a wire or other conductor. The door lock module 703 is typically battery powered and mounted inside the door, although the door lock module 703 may be located in different locations depending on the implementation. The same battery can be used to power both the door lock module 703 and the electronically controlled locking and unlocking mechanism of the latch 701 assembly. In addition to operating the electronically controlled locking mechanism, the door lock module 703 communicates wirelessly with the access panel 705 from which it receives commands to unlock the door.

The access panel 705 communicates wirelessly with the door lock module 703 and instructs the door lock module 703 to unlock the door. The access panel 705 also communicates wirelessly with the visitor medallions 11 and determines, based on a secure read of the information stored in the visitor medallion 11, whether or not to command the door lock module 703 to unlock the door. The access panel 705 further communicates with the central reservation server 21 of the visitor interaction system 10 to securely obtain information about visitors who are allowed access to the door, and determines whether or not to command the door lock module 703 to unlock the door, based on whether the whether the information obtained from the visitor's medallion 11 (for example, a unique encrypted identifier), information about the visitor who is allowed access to the door. Although the access panel 705 may be battery powered, the access panel 705 is typically powered from an external source (eg, via Power over Ethernet (POE) technology). In some examples, the access panel 705 communicates wirelessly with the central reservation server 21, such as over a Wi-Fi network. Typically, however, the access panel 705 is connected to a wired network (eg, an Ethernet network) through which it communicates wirelessly with the central redundancy server 21 and through which it obtains power for operation. It should be noted that the access panel 705 can be connected to an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) to be able to continue to function even during power outages from the mains or generator.

In FIG. 7C and 7D show detailed views of an exemplary access panel 705. As shown in the figures, the access panel includes a flat panel display (eg, a 7 inch touchscreen display), an integrated camera, and wireless transceivers and associated antenna(s) for communicating with medallions 11 via BLE and/or NFC. The flat panel display can be used to greet visitors for whom the door is unlocked, to display information to visitors for whom the door is not unlocked, and to display other information. Additional features of the access panel 705 are described in more detail below.

- 13 040780

In FIG. 7E, 7G, and 7I are exploded views of the latch assembly 701, including the lever/round door handle and the door latch mechanism. Additionally, in FIG. 7E shows a door lock module 703 that may be located within the housing of the latch assembly 701 and which controls the operation of the electronically controlled release mechanism of the latch assembly 701.

Additionally, as shown in FIG. 7E, 7G, and 7I, the latch assembly 701 includes electrically insulating grommets mounted on a door handle shaft and configured to electrically isolate the door handle from other parts of the latch assembly 701. For example, grommets can isolate a door handle from a latch mechanism. Electrical isolation of the door handle may allow the door lock module 703 to use the door handle as a communications antenna for its ISM radio. The electrical isolation of the door handle may further allow the door lock module 703 to monitor the capacitance of the door handle and identify changes in capacitance of the door handle. In one example, door lock module 703 measures door handle potential changes by charging the door handle to a nominal voltage (eg, 0.05 V) and determining when the door handle potential returns to zero. The capacitance tracking provided by the door lock module 703 allows the door lock module 703 to determine when a person is touching, contacting, or in close proximity (e.g., less than a few centimeters) to the door handle in order to actuate the release mechanism of the latch 701 in assembly only when a person is in contact with or in close proximity to the door handle.

In FIG. 7F shows a translucent view of an alternative latch 701 assembly.

As shown, the latch assembly includes a status LED, depicted as a translucent ring located around the base of the door handle, which is used to provide information about the status of the door latch assembly. In one example, a status LED may glow green when a visitor is authorized to open a door, and glow red when the user is denied authorization to open a door.

In FIG. 7H is a block diagram illustrating the components of a door lock module 703 and an access panel 705. As shown in FIG. 7H, the door lock module 703 includes a microprocessor controlling the operation of the door lock module 703 and a memory storing instructions for execution on the microprocessor. The door lock module 703 further includes a sensor, such as a radio frequency (RF), infrared (IR), or capacitive proximity sensor, used to detect when a visitor's hand is in contact with or in close proximity to the door handle. The door lock module 703 further includes a short range radio, such as an industrial, scientific, and medical (ISM) radio, for encrypted wireless communication with the access panel 705. The door lock module 703 is powered by a battery and a boost converter such as a 4.5V boost converter.

The access panel 705 includes a microprocessor controlling the operation of the access panel 705 and a memory storing instructions for execution on the microprocessor. The access panel 705 further includes a short range radio, such as an industrial, scientific, and medical (ISM) radio, for encrypted wireless communication with the door lock module 703. The access panel 705 may include a battery backup to provide backup power, and typically includes a power source that receives electrical power from an external source, such as power drawn over an Ethernet cable. The access panel 705 further includes one or more transceivers and associated antennas for communicating with the medallions 11, such as a BLE transceiver and antenna and an NFC transceiver and antenna. In some examples, the antenna(s) of the access panel 705 are specifically designed(s) to wrap around the outer edge of the display of the access panel 705. Additionally or alternatively, the access panel 705 may be associated with (and connected to) a point sensor 15 located on the ceiling directly in front of the door, and the operation of the access panel 705 may be based on beacon signals detected by the point sensor 15 and emitted from visitor medallions 11 located directly in front of the door. Additionally, the network transceiver allows the access panel 705 to communicate via a wired or wireless network, such as the communication network 19 of the visitor interaction system 10, with the central reservation server 21 . In general, each access panel 705 is associated with one specific door near which it is located, and the access panel 705 is connected one-to-one with that one door's door lock module 703 such that the access panel 705 can only control the unlocking of one door and the module 703 the door lock operates in response to commands from that access panel 705 only.

In operation, the latch assembly 701 typically keeps the door locked by default. The access panel 705 maintains its BLE transceiver (or the BLE transceiver of the associated sensor 15) on to detect any beacon signals transmitted by the medallions 11 operating in the vicinity of the access panel 705. To this end, the access panel 705 and/or its associated sensor 15 may be adapted to detect beacons transmitted by recognized

- 14 040780 medallions within 2-4 feet of access panel. Thus, when the recognized medallion 11 enters the reading range of the access panel 705 and/or its associated sensor 15, the access panel 705 begins to receive the periodic beacons transmitted by the medallion 11 and initiates a door unlock sequence.

First, based on the time at which the recognized beacon was received, the access panel 705 determines when the next time period is when the medallion will listen to the network for messages from the visitor interaction system 10 . In turn, during a certain period of time, the access panel 705 initiates a secure connection with the medallion 11, over which the access panel 705 can request the medallion's unique private identifier (for example, using encryption such as elliptic curve cryptography (ECC) encryption). The unique private identifier may be in the form of an encrypted code, such as a 48-byte encrypted code, that uniquely identifies medallion 11. In response to a request, access panel 705 and medallion 11 establish a secure and/or encrypted communication channel over which the medallion transmits its unique private identifier. to the access panel 705. Typically, a unique private identifier is transmitted over an encrypted BLE connection. Upon receipt of the unique private identifier, the access panel 705 activates a lock control unit (LCU) used to assist the local storage device in determining whether the visitor associated with the unique private identifier and medallion 11 is currently allowed access to the door. purpose, the access panel 705 maintains in local storage a white list containing records of the unique private identifiers of the medallions that are allowed to access the door now and in the future. If the private unique identifier received from the medallion 11 is encrypted, the LCU decrypts the identifier and determines whether the decrypted identifier is whitelisted. If the access panel 705 determines that the visitor associated with the unique private identifier and medallion 11 is currently allowed to access the door (for example, the unique private identifier is whitelisted), the access panel 705 displays a welcome message on its display and initiates unlocking the door. . Otherwise, if the access panel 705 determines that the received ID is not on the list of IDs that are allowed to access the door, the access panel 705 communicates with the reservation server 21 over the network 19 to obtain updated information (if any) about the medallion IDs that are allowed access. to door. In turn, if the received identifier is not listed in the updated information, the access panel 705 determines that the visitor is not allowed to access the door at present, and optionally turns on its camera to take a photo of the visitor, and transmits the photo to the central server 21. Note, that in cases where the access panel 705 detects multiple medallions 11 in its vicinity, the access panel 705 performs the above steps for each detected medallion, displays on its display a welcome message in the language selected by the visitor, identifying each visitor associated with the medallion 11 who is allowed access to the door, and initiates the unlocking of the door if at least one of the detected medallions is on the white list.

As part of unlocking the door, the access panel 705 activates its ISM radio and establishes a secure communication channel with the ISM radio of the associated door lock module 703. When a secure communication channel is established and it is determined that a visitor or crew member is allowed access to the door, the access panel 705 transmits a readiness code (eg, a door unlock authorization signal) to the door lock module 703 over a secure channel in the ISM band. The readiness code may be sent as a message encrypted with, for example, 128-bit Advanced Encryption Standard (AES). In response to receiving the ready code, the door lock module 703 activates a proximity sensor (eg, a capacitive proximity sensor) to monitor when a visitor's (or crew member's) hand touches or directly approaches the door handle. Upon detecting that a visitor's (or crew member's) hand is touching or directly approaching the door handle, the door lock module 703 actuates the release mechanism (eg, solenoid) of the latch assembly 701. If the door is unlocked and open, the door lock module 703 may report that the door has been opened to the access panel 705, and the access panel 705 may in turn command the medallion 11 to return to beacon mode.

Optionally, the door lock module 703 may continuously monitor when a person's hand contacts or approaches directly the door handle. In turn, if a door unlock authorization signal has not been received from the access panel 705 and the door lock module 703 determines that a person's hand has touched or approached directly the door handle, the door lock module 703 may send an unauthorized access signal to the access panel 705. In response to receiving an unauthorized access signal, the access panel 705 activates its camera to take a photo of the person who has attempted to access the door and transmits the photo to the central server 21.

In embodiments where medallion 11 is configured to operate in both bi-directional and beacon modes, the door unlocking sequence described above may include additional steps. If the medallion 11 operates in a bi-directional mode of operation, the door unlocking sequence may proceed in the manner described above. Optionally, when it is determined that the door is unlocked, the door lock module 703 may report that the door has been opened to the access panel 705, and the access panel 705 may in turn inform the medallion 11 that the medallion can return to beacon mode. .

If the medallion 11 is operating in beacon mode, the visitor interaction system 10 may need to command the medallion 11 to switch to bi-directional mode of operation to allow the medallion 11 to establish a secure communication channel with the access panel 705 and provide the access panel 705 with a unique private medallion identifier. To this end, in one example, the access panel 705 may determine, based on the time the beacon was received from the medallion, when the next time period will come during which the medallion will listen to the network for messages from the visitor interaction system 10. In turn, during a certain period of time, the access panel 705 transmits a signal to the medallion 11 in order to cause the medallion to switch to a bidirectional mode of operation. For example, the access panel 705 may send a request for the unique private identifier of the medallion, and in response to receiving the request, the medallion may switch to bidirectional mode while continuing to transmit periodic beacons.

In another example, the visitor interaction system 10 may cause the medallion 11 to switch to a bi-directional mode of operation before the medallion 11 approaches the access panel 705 directly (eg, before it approaches within 2-4 feet of the access panel 705). In this example, the location services provided by the visitor interaction system 10 track the location of each visitor within the facility via the visitor medallion 11 . Namely, the network 13 of sensors 15 of the visitor interaction system 10 continuously monitors the beacon signals received from the medallions 11 on each sensor 15 of the network and identifies the medallions 11 that are in the vicinity of each sensor 15 based on the received beacon signals and the public identifiers contained therein. . Based on tracking the locations of the medallions 11, the visitor interaction system 10 may determine if a recognized medallion is approaching a locked door that is associated with the medallion 11. For example, the system 10 may determine that the medallion 11 has entered a corridor containing a door that access by a visitor associated with the medallion, or that medallion 11 appeared in a predetermined neighborhood (eg, 100 feet or less) of such a door. In response to the determination, the visitor interaction system 10 causes one or more sensors 15 that are within the communication radius of the medallion 11 to transmit a wake-up command to the medallion 11 to cause the medallion 11 to switch to a bi-directional mode of operation.

In the above example, the visitor interaction system 10 may further send a wake-up command to the access panel 705 of the door accessed by the medallion when the medallion 11 approaches the door. In response to the wake-up command, the access panel may begin to monitor its BLE transceiver for any medallions 11 that are within its read radius and are on a list of authorized users (eg, whitelist) stored in the access panel 705.

The operation description of the automated door lock assembly 700 provided above has focused on BLE-based detection and communication between the access panel 705 and the medallion 11. However, both the access panel 705 and the medallion 11 can also be adapted for detection and communication, based on NFC, and the access panel 705 also provides functionality for unlocking an associated door based on NFC based communication. NFC-based communication can be used, among other uses, in situations in which the medallion's battery is dead and thus the medallion cannot emit BLE-based beacons or participate in BLE-based communication. To support NFC-based communication, the access panel 705 periodically emits an NFC read signal or an NFC request signal, which is used to power any passive NFC-based devices in its vicinity. If the medallion 11 is located in the vicinity of the access panel 705, the NFC swipe signal activates the antenna and the NFC transceiver of the medallion and causes the medallion 11 to transmit to the access panel 705 an NFC-based beacon response containing the public identifier of the medallion 11. Based on the received response signal, the access panel 705 then can establish a secure NFC-based communication link with medallion 11 and proceed to unlock the door based on an NFC-based unlock process similar to the BLE-based unlock process described above (except that all communication will be via an NFC transceiver rather than a BLE transceiver ). The NFC-based unlocking process can also be used using NFC-enabled devices other than medallions, such as including NFC-enabled access cards.

In addition to the sensors 15 installed in the interface devices 17, the visitor interaction system 10 includes a sensor network 13 of autonomous sensors 15 located throughout the facility (or facilities). Each sensor 15 has a known location, and the sensors 15 in the network 13 are used to track the locations of the medallions 11 on the site by creating a log of each medallion 11 detected by each sensor 15 with a corresponding timestamp. In addition, each sensor 15 can engage in bi-directional communication with the medallions 11 within its communication radius, including detecting the medallions 11 by detecting beacons and other signals transmitted by the medallions 11, as well as transmitting signals to and receiving signals from the medallions 11. Examples of stand-alone sensors 15 are shown and described in FIG. 8A-8D. In particular, in FIG. 8A and 8B show views of a directional or omnidirectional sensor, while FIG. 8C and 8D show views of a point sensor. An omnidirectional sensor has a long communication range (eg 30-50 feet and up to 100 feet or more) that extends in all directions around the sensor; a directional sensor has a similarly large communication range (eg, 30-50 feet and up to 100 feet or more) that extends in some (but not all) directions around the sensor. A point sensor has a shorter beam range that can be adjusted to a diameter of 7 to 10 feet or more, and typically a beam range typically has a range in a selected direction from the sensor for a shorter distance than an omnidirectional sensor. (for example, 15 feet or less). It should be noted that the communication range of each sensor can be adjusted down from the maximum range values listed above.

In FIG. 8A is an exploded view of a directional or omnidirectional sensor that includes an electronics PCB 807 and an antenna PCB 803 mounted between a base plate 811 and a radome 801. Antenna PCB 803 includes an antenna element 802 mounted thereon and coupled to communicate with circuitry. RSV 803 antennas. Antenna element 802 has a special shape, such as those detailed in FIG. 8E-8H and 8K-8N, which give the sensor directional or omnidirectional sensitivity. The antenna PCB 803 communicates with the electronics PCB 807 via cable 805, and the connector 809 provides a connection between the electronics PCB 807 and the wire network 19. ) and can be used to track and communicate with medallions located in the vicinity (eg, within communication range) of the sensor. In FIG. 8B shows a directional or omnidirectional sensor when all components are installed together.

In FIG. 8C is an exploded view of a point sensor that includes an electronics PCB 807 and an antenna mounted between a base plate 811 and a radome 801. A decorative base 814 may optionally be provided. communicating with the antenna circuit PCB 803. Antenna element 802 has a special shape, shown in detail in FIG. 8I, 8J, which gives the sensor point or point directional sensitivity. The antenna includes an antenna PCB 803 having a foam spacer 804 mounted on its surface and an antenna element 802 mounted on the foam spacer 804. PCB 807 electronic components and wire network 19. Sensor 15 can be mounted on or in the ceiling or wall of an object (for example, using an 813 connecting nut) and can be used to track and communicate with medallions located in the vicinity (for example, within range and communication beam) of the sensor. In FIG. 8D shows the point sensor when all components are installed together.

Detailed views of antenna elements 802 that may be attached to antenna PCBs 803 located in sensors 15, such as those shown in FIG. 8A-8D are provided with reference to FIG. 8E-8M. In FIG. 8E-8H show detailed views of an antenna element 802 located in a directional sensor such as shown in FIG. 8A and 8B. Antenna element 802 may be designed to mount on a wall or ceiling within an object and may provide directional sensitivity with a large beamwidth to linearly direct the polarized radiation of the front surface of the antenna. As shown in the top and side views of FIG. 8E-8G, antenna element 802 has an inverted V shape that is generally symmetrical about the center line and includes two contacts extending downward from the main surface of the antenna that are used to attach antenna PCB 803. The main surface of the antenna, shown in Fig. 8E includes a rectangular center portion comprising symmetrical parallelogram-shaped projections extending from opposite sides of the rectangular center portion. Exemplary dimensions of antenna element 802, measured in inches, are shown in the figures. Dimensions shown are illustrative and antenna element 802 may be scaled up or down from the dimensions shown depending on the particular application for which antenna element 802 (and associated sensor 15) is designed. In particular, dimensions can be chosen and adjusted to change the center frequency and impedance matching of the antenna. For example, these dimensions may be chosen to provide antenna element 802 with a resonant operating frequency of 2.4 GHz (within the operating range of BLE in the ISM band), given the appropriate PCB ground spacing and dielectric

- 17 040780 proximity to the body. The bottom contacts extending downward from the main surface of the antenna serve as a power connection and a ground connection electrically connected to the PCB 803 and also serve to maintain the antenna element 802 at the proper height distance from the PCB ground layer.

In FIG. 8I, 8J are detailed views of an antenna element 802 provided in a point (or beam) sensor such as shown in FIG. 8C and 8D. Antenna element 802 may be designed for ceiling mounting (or wall mounting at high elevation and downward slope) within an object and may provide high gain, narrow beam (i. polarization (SR). As shown in the top and side views of FIG. 8I, 8J, antenna element 802 is generally planar and has the shape of a square with its diagonally opposite corners offset at 45° angles with respect to the sides of the square. Antenna element 802 of FIG. 8I and 8J may be attached to the antenna PCB 803 via foam spacer 804 as shown in FIG. 8C. Exemplary dimensions of antenna element 802, measured in millimeters (mm), are shown in the figures. Dimensions shown are illustrative and antenna element 802 may be scaled up or down from the dimensions shown depending on the particular application for which antenna element 802 (and associated sensor 15) is designed. In particular, dimensions can be chosen and adjusted to change the center frequency, axial ratio, and antenna impedance matching. For example, these dimensions may be chosen to provide antenna element 802 with a resonant operating frequency of 2.4 GHz (within the BLE operating range in the ISM band), given appropriate PCB ground spacing and housing dielectric proximity.

In FIG. 8K-8N show detailed views of an antenna element 802 provided in a circular sensor. For example, the antenna element shown in FIG. 8K-8N can provide omnidirectional sensitivity and can be used in a sensor 15 such as shown in FIG. 8A and 8B. Antenna element 802 may be designed to be mounted on a ceiling within an object and provide a linear polarized wide beam width to provide an azimuth omnidirectional reception pattern. As shown in the top and side views of FIG. 8K-8M, antenna element 802 is generally symmetrical about the center line and includes two contacts extending downward from the main surface of the antenna, which are used to attach antenna PCB 803 (as depicted, for example, in FIG. 8A). The main surface of the antenna, shown in Fig. 8K, has a generally round shape. Exemplary dimensions of antenna element 802, measured in inches, are shown in the figures. Dimensions shown are illustrative and antenna element 802 may be scaled up or down from the dimensions shown depending on the particular application for which antenna element 802 (and associated sensor 15) is designed. In particular, dimensions can be chosen and adjusted to change the center frequency and impedance matching of the antenna. For example, these dimensions may be chosen to provide antenna element 802 with a resonant operating frequency of 2.4 GHz (within the BLE operating range in the ISM band), given appropriate PCB ground spacing and housing dielectric proximity. The bottom contacts extending downward from the main surface of the antenna serve as a power connection and a ground connection electrically connected to the PCB 803 and also serve to maintain the antenna element 802 at the proper height distance from the PCB ground layer. The power connection and the ground connection can provide different directions of current flow on the surface of the radiating element 802 of the antenna.

In general, the sensors 15 installed in the interface devices 17 of the visitor interaction system 10, such as the antennas of the access panels 705 used to unlock doors, are adjusted to have a limited range (e.g., 2-4 feet) in order to detect only medallions. 11 visitors located in close proximity to the interface devices 17. Additionally, the sensors 15 of the interface devices 17 may be directional or point type sensors used to detect medallions 11 only in selected directions. Thus, the sensor associated with the access panel 705 can only be used to detect medallions 11 located at a limited distance in any direction from the sensor, while the sensor of the payment terminal or vending machine can only detect medallions 11 that are within a limited angular range ( e.g. directly in front of a payment terminal or vending machine) and within a limited distance (e.g. less than 2 feet) from the sensor.

As mentioned above, sensors 15 are located throughout the facility and are used to track the locations of medallions 11 throughout the facility and provide services to visitors based on the detected signals. Namely, the sensors 15 are used by the visitor interaction system 10 to provide location information to the visitor interaction system 10 with selected levels of accuracy. At a low level of accuracy, the location of the medallion 11 is identified based on the identifier(s) of one or more sensors 15 or other devices,

- 18 040780 which detect beacon signals from medallion 11 at any given time. Thus, the position of the medallion at any time can be approximated based on the known positions of the sensor(s) (and/or positions of other devices, if known) that detected the latest detected beacon signal(s) from the medallion. To determine the position of the medallion 11 at a higher level of detail, the position of the medallion is determined based on the relative strength of the received beacon signal measured at each sensor that received the beacon signal and/or based on the detection range and detection beam characteristics (e.g., detection range and detection direction ) sensor(s). In particular, when the beacon signals from the medallion 11 are received by three or more sensors 15, the relative strength of the received beacon signal on each of the sensors 15 (and/or the delay between the time of reception of the beacon signal on each of the sensors 15) can be used to triangulate the position of the medallion 11 with respect to known locations of each of the sensors 15.

Tracking the locations of the medallions 11 within the object can be performed not only by the sensors 15 of the sensor network 13, but also by the sensors 15 installed in the interface devices 17 of the system 10 of interacting with visitors. For example, access panels 705 of automated door locks 700 assemblies located throughout the facility can be used to detect all medallions 11 moving past the access panels 705. The access panels 705 may transmit the identifiers of all detected medallions 11 to a central location server which maintains a log of the locations of all medallions with the corresponding timestamps. Additionally, location tracking can be performed by detecting the medallions 11 by BLE or NFC-enabled devices, such as BLE- or NFC-enabled mobile devices, tablet computers, or interactive displays that communicate with servers 21 of the visitor interaction system 10. BLE or NFC-enabled mobile devices, such as visitor mobile devices or crew tablets, can detect medallions 11 located within the communication ranges of the devices and report to the central location server the identifiers of the discovered medallions 11 along with detection timestamps and device location information ( if it is possible).

In order to provide continuous real-time tracking of the locations of the medallions 11, each of the sensors and devices that detect the medallions 11 transmits the identifiers of all detected medallions 11 along with detection timestamps to the same central location server. In this way, the central location server maintains a log of the locations of all medallions with their respective timestamps. Thus, the central location server can be used to identify the latest detected location of each medallion based on the latest journal entry for medallion 11, or optionally based on two or more recent journal entries for medallion 11 (e.g., to provide improved location accuracy by combining the two different location detection methods). Thus, the visitor interaction system 10 provides real-time (or near real-time) location calculations for each medallion. The location information can be further used by the visitor interaction system 10 to provide additional services to visitors or others, such as providing notifications to systems used to activate personalized interactions when it is determined that the medallion 11 has arrived in a certain area, is moving around an area, is staying in an area in for a predetermined time or leaves the area or space equipped with sensors 15.

Location-based services can be further enhanced by using sensors 15 located near entry and/or exit points of a facility. Namely, if the last entry for a particular medallion 11 in the log maintained by the central location server is for the entry/exit location, and the log does not contain any additional occurrences of the medallion 11 at a later time at the facility, the system may determine that the medallion 11 (and associated visitor) have left the property. In turn, when the medallion 11 is again detected at the same (or different) entry/exit location, it can be determined that the medallion has re-entered the object. Thus, the visitor interaction system 10 can maintain a log of medallions 11 that are in the facility and a log of medallions 11 that have left the facility. Users may be provided with notifications based on these logs, for example, to inform another visitor that a member of their family has left the property and/or returned to the property.

In addition to the above-described functions, the visitor interaction system 10 can further be used for gathering on a ship, emergency evacuation, or the like. Namely, since the visitor interaction system 10 includes sensors 15 throughout the facility (or ship) configured to track the positions of the medallions 11, the visitor interaction system 10 constantly maintains current up-to-date information about the locations of visitors within the facility based on the tracked locations. medallions 11 of all visitors. Based on current visitor location information, the system 10

- 19 040780 visitor actions can dynamically assign muster points or evacuation routes to visitors when a muster or evacuation operation is in progress. Namely, the visitor interaction system 10 may dynamically assign muster points or evacuation routes to visitors so as to assign visitors the muster point or evacuation route closest to their current location when the muster or evacuation operation begins. Additionally or alternatively, the visitor interaction system 10 may dynamically assign muster points or evacuation routes to visitors in such a way as to avoid overflowing a particular muster point or evacuation route when a muster or evacuation operation begins. For example, in situations in which a large number of visitors are concentrated in a certain part of the facility (for example, a large number of visitors are at the stern or at the stern of the ship), dynamic assignment can be used to assign specific visitors muster points or evacuation routes at the bow or at the the bow of the ship in order to prevent visitors from crowding any muster point or evacuation route. Additionally, the visitor interaction system 10 can track the position of the medallions and visitors during the muster or evacuation operation and dynamically change the muster point or evacuation route assigned to a particular visitor based on real-time updated information obtained from real-time tracking of location changes ( i.e. movements) of visitors around the facility. Thus, a visitor's assigned muster point or evacuation route can be updated if the visitor takes an unexpected route during a muster or evacuation operation, such as if a visitor takes an unexpected route to pick up a child during a muster or evacuation operation, or if the visitor during the evacuation is forced to bypass the corridor filled with smoke.

The visitor interaction system 10 may further be used to automatically identify rooms that have no visitors left during a muster or evacuation operation, such as by determining that there are no medallions in the room and/or determining that all visitors associated with room are located in other locations on the facility (based on tracked visitor medallion locations). Alternatively, the visitor interaction system 10 may be used to automatically identify rooms in which visitors are present during a muster or evacuation operation (based on the tracked visitor medallion locations) and to direct crew and/or emergency personnel to the identified rooms to help evacuate visitors.

The above-described features of the visitor interaction system 10 used for collection and/or evacuation are provided in part by the ability of the visitor interaction system to communicate information to visitors during the collection or evacuation operation. To this end, the visitor interaction system 10 relies on access panels 705, interactive displays 17c, portals 17d, and the like located throughout the facility. Namely, the visitor interaction system 10 provides collection and/or evacuation instructions on the displays of the interface devices 17, such as arrows (or more detailed instructions) indicating the way to muster points and evacuation routes. Instructions can be further customized for individual visitors whose medallions are found in the vicinity of each interface device 17, for example, to instruct one visitor to evacuate in a certain direction while instructing another visitor to evacuate in a different direction (for example, to allow another visitor to be reunited with other visitors in his/her company). Instructions may also provide visitors with information about other visitors in the same company, such as providing visitors with information about the current location, assigned pickup location, and/or assigned evacuation route for the visitor's child, spouse, or boyfriend. Instructions can also be configured to be displayed to each visitor in the language selected by the visitor.

The visitor interaction system 10 provides services and interaction with visitors through various methods and terminals. For example, as shown in FIG. 9, the visitor interaction system 10 can provide services and interactions through end devices 18 such as mobile devices 18a (e.g., smartphones), tablet computers 18b, interactive displays 18c (e.g., touch screens), web-enabled televisions ( such as televisions in cabins), 18d desktops and/or web interfaces, kiosks, among others. In general, end device 18 includes a processor, a memory for storing program instructions, a display, and a user input interface such as a touch screen, although additional components (or fewer components) may be used. Certain end devices 18, including interactive displays 18c, web-enabled televisions, kiosks, and the like. may also function as interface devices 17 and vice versa. In particular, BLE-enabled end devices 18 (e.g., having a BLE transceiver) can generally function as interface devices 17. Conversely, interface devices 17 containing a user input interface and providing access to a visitor interaction application, which are described in more detail below. , can act as end devices

- 20 040780

18.

The services and interactions provided by the visitor interaction system 10 may be provided through an application or other executable program that is stored and executed by end devices 18, such as a dedicated visitor interaction application. Alternatively, or additionally, services and interactions may be provided through web interfaces, such as a visitor interface running on server 21, accessed via a web browser running on end device 18 and having a communication connection with server 21. Services and Interactions typically rely at least in part on data and information obtained from servers 21 of visitor interaction system 10 over network connections (eg, Internet connections) of end devices 18, although certain services and interactions may be provided without network connections or without receiving data and information from servers 21. In order to communicate with servers 21, end devices 18 are shown in FIG. 9 as having wireless (eg, in the case of end devices 18a and 18b) or wired (eg, in the case of end devices 18c and 18d) connections to servers 21 via communication network 19. It should be noted that the communication network 19 may include one or more of a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), the Internet, and the like.

As shown in FIG. 9, some of the end devices 18 through which services and interactions are provided may be BLE-enabled devices, such as BLE-enabled mobile devices 18a, tablet computers 18b, or interactive displays 18c. When such end device 18 executes the visitor interaction application, the visitor interaction application may optionally actuate the BLE transceiver of the end device 18 to provide additional services to the user. For example, a visitor interaction application may actuate the BLE transceiver of the end device 18 and use the activated BLE transceiver to listen to the network for beacons emitted by the medallions 11 that are within the BLE communication range of the end device 18. The visitor interaction application may it is not necessary to report to the servers 21 the identifiers of the medallions 11 from which the beacon signals were received, along with the reception timestamp and location information for the end device 18 (when available). The visitor interaction application may further use the powered BLE transceiver to communicate bi-directionally with the medallions 11 from which the beacon signals have been received. In one example, the visitor interaction application may initiate a change in the operating mode of the medallion 11. In one use case, the visitor interaction application may cause the BLE transceiver of the end device 18 to broadcast a notification from the visitor interaction system to cause any medallion 11 in its communication range to go out. from sleep mode when the medallion 11 detects the notification. In another use case, the visitor interaction application may cause the beacon mode medallion 11 to go into bi-directional mode or sleep mode, or cause the bi-directional medallion 11 to go into beacon mode or sleep mode.

Additionally or alternatively, in some cases, the visitor interaction application may activate the NFC transceiver of the end device 18 when the application is running on an NFC-enabled end device 18. In such situations, the application may be used to discover the medallions 11 and engage in communication with the medallions 11 via NFC. . In particular, although the description in this document is focused on BLE-based communication between end devices 18 and medallions 11, the features described in the context of BLE-based communication can similarly be implemented through NFC-based communication between end device 18 and medallions 11 when using an NFC-enabled end device 18.

References to a visitor interaction application in this document not only refer to cases in which the visitor interaction application takes the form of an application or other executable program that is stored and executed by the end device 18, but also refers to cases in which the visitor interaction application with visitors has the form of a web interface or other interface on the terminal side. In general, user interfaces provided through application interfaces and web interfaces will be similar, although certain application features for interacting with visitors may only be offered in application interfaces or web interfaces. Additionally, references to the visitor interaction application may refer to different versions of the application, including visitor versions that contain only features offered to visitors, staff versions that contain additional features offered to the host or staff, versions intended for for managers, which contains features offered to supervisors who supervise personnel, and administrator versions, which contain features offered only to system administrators.

- 21 040780

In order to use the application to interact with visitors through the end device 18, the visitor typically needs to be identified and authenticated. If the visitor has not been identified and authenticated, he can only access limited features of the application, and in particular, the visitor cannot access information based on the user's profile. In cases where the visitor interaction application is running on a BLE-enabled end device 18, the visitor interaction application may listen to the network for BLE beacons from visitor medallions 11 and, in response to detecting one or more beacons, may provide a login page, personalized for the visitor(s) who automatically identifies(s) based on the detected beacon signals. Visitors can then authenticate to enter the application by entering a password or personal identification number (PIN) into the application. If the application is running on an end device 18 that does not support BLE and/or if the visitor's medallion beacon signal is not detected by the application, the visitor may be identified and authenticated to enter the application by entering both a username and a password or personal identification number. (PIN) to the application. It should be noted that when the application is running on the visitor's own mobile device 18a, the visitor may choose not to log out of their application account so that they do not have to enter a password or PIN each time the visitor uses the application. Alternatively, a visitor may be automatically logged out of an account in the application if there has been no interaction with the visitor for a predetermined period of time. Additionally, in cases where account login was based on detection of the medallion beacon signal, the visitor may be automatically logged out of the account if the medallion beacon signal is no longer detected by the application or end device 18 within a predetermined period of time, or if it is determined that the medallion 11 moved away from the end device 18.

After logging in to an account, the application can automatically access and securely obtain profile information associated with an identified and authenticated visitor from the servers 21. The application can also be used to ask the visitor to provide, complete or view missing profile information, which is then uploaded from applications to servers 21. The profile information may include a name, an identification photo, booking and other reservation information, payment information (eg, information about saved payment methods for a specified visitor), and the like. Profile information may also include additional data related to the visitor, including information about the visitor's past, present and future activities (determined from booking and reservation information and from location data), past, present and future locations (determined from based on booking and reservation information and based on location data), past, present and planned future bookings and preferences, etc. Profile information may also include images, music, videos, and other types of data associated with the visitor.

With visitor versions of the application, the visitor interaction system 10 provides a variety of services to visitors. For example, a visitor using the application can use the application to view bookings, registrations, and reservations made by the visitor, including past, current, and future registrations for rentals, restaurants, performances, events, and the like. The visitor can also use the app to get information about available rentals, restaurants, performances, events, and more. and reserve them. The information may be based on recommendations for future bookings, registrations and reservations personalized to the visitor based on the visitor's profile information. The visitor may also use the application to view photos, videos, and other media available through the visitor interaction system 10, including photos, videos, and other media associated with the visitor. The association of media items with a visitor can be based on the match of visitor profile information with tagged media element information, e.g. profile and tag information indicates that the video was filmed at the location visited by the visitor's medallion, profile and tag information indicates that the photo is of a person, related to the visitor, on the basis that the person's medallion was found in the vicinity of the photographer at the time the photograph was taken, or the like. The application may also provide access to games (which may not necessarily include gambling), purchases, and other features.

The visitor interaction system 10 may also allow attendees to view live performances using a visitor version of the application. The performance can be viewed, for example, on a TV in the visitor's cabin, where an application can be accessed to interact with visitors. More specifically, a visitor using an application to interact with visitors may choose to view a live performance through the application, such as a performance in a theater or other venue within a venue that

- 22 040780 rum installed system 10 interaction with visitors, or outside the facility. In response to the visitor's choice, streaming audio and/or live video of the event is provided. Additionally, the application allows the visitor to interact with the live performance participant. More specifically, the application may allow the attendee to send instant messages or other feedback to the speaker, for example, by typing a message for the speaker in the app's user input interface (for example, on the on-screen keyboard or TV remote control in the cabin) or by selecting a feedback button (for example , applause buttons, laugh buttons, thumb up buttons, heart buttons, etc.). Instant messages or feedback are then displayed on a screen placed in front of the performer and/or provided as feedback from the audience to the performer (for example, by including pre-recorded sounds of applause or laughter) to notify the performer of the feedback received from visitor, and provide an opportunity for the participant of the performance to interact with the visitor during the performance.

In some examples, a visitor interaction application provides communication functionality to allow users of the application (including both visitors and staff) to communicate with each other using the application. Communication functions may include communication between users based on text, audio and/or video, such as communication via chat, instant messaging (IM), voicemail or video voicemail, and the like. In addition, communication features may allow users to obtain information about other related users, including location information. Related users may include, in the case of a visitor, other visitors from his/her company (for example, other visitors related to the same reservation, such as children, parents, etc.), or visitors who accepted the invitation in the form of a link to the visitor , or in the case of a staff member of one or more persons to whom the staff member is to provide services (for example, a visitor who has ordered food or drink to be delivered by the staff member). For example, when users are connected, the communication function of the visitor interaction application may provide the visitor with general location information (eg, to indicate that another visitor is at the facility or has left the facility) and/or precise location information (eg, to indicate that another visitor is in his cabin). The communication function may also indicate whether another associated visitor is available for instant communication, and in some examples may identify visitors who have left the establishment as unavailable for communication.

The visitor interaction system 10 provides additional functionality through staff versions of the visitor interaction application. Staff versions of the visitor interaction application may run on end devices 18 used by the host and staff to provide services and interactions to site visitors. Typically, the host and staff will access the staff version of the visitor interaction application on a tablet end device 18b that supports BLE (e.g., the end device includes a BLE transceiver and a BLE antenna), although in some situations, the host and staff will access the application through other end devices (eg, interactive displays 18c, portals, door lock access panels 705, etc.).

In one example, a staff version of the visitor interaction application may be used by a staff member to interact with visitors. To this end, the visitor interaction application uses the BLE transceiver of the end device 18 to detect any medallions 11 in the vicinity (for example, within the BLE communication range) of the end device 18. Namely, the BLE transceiver is used to detect beacon signals emitted by the medallions 11 in the vicinity of the end device. 18. When one or more beacons(s) are detected, the staff version of the visitor interaction application is adapted to receive the public identifier of each medallion that is contained in the emitted beacons and obtain from the servers 21 profile information associated with the received identifiers. (s) and associated visitor(s). The resulting profile information typically includes a photo and a name (or nickname) associated with the visitor. The received profile information is then displayed on the end device 18 to allow the staff member or host to interact with the visitor(s) based on the received profile information. For example, based on the obtained profile information, the staff member may visually identify the visitor, greet the visitor by name or alias, and discuss with the visitor the visitor's upcoming booking.

In situations where profile information for multiple visitors is received by end device 18, the visitor interaction application may display profile information for multiple visitors. In some examples, the profiles may be displayed in order of the estimated distance to each visitor from end device 18, where the estimated distance

- 23 040780 can be determined based on the signal strength or transmission delay associated with the corresponding BLE beacon signal associated with each visitor's medallion 11 and detected by the end device 18.

Based on the obtained profile information, a representative of the staff or the host may provide assistance to the visitor. For example, a staff or host representative can view a visitor's booking, check-in, and reservation; provide information and/or make recommendations or reservations for future bookings, registrations and reservations personalized to the visitor based on the visitor's profile information; order drinks and food for delivery to the visitor; help the visitor find their way around the facility; or the like. The application may also allow a member of staff or a host to participate in games (not necessarily including gambling) with the visitor and provide additional features.

The visitor interaction system 10 may further provide payment functionality through a staff version of the visitor interaction application. As described above, the medallions 11 can be used for payments by creating a secure communication channel between the medallion 11 and the payment terminal (for example, 17b), authenticating the entity of the medallion 11 over a secure communication channel using the unique private identifier of the medallion or other encrypted information stored in the medallion 11 , and based on the authenticated payment transaction processing entity using the payment information associated with the authenticated medallion 11. Such payment transactions may be performed over a BLE or NFC connection between the medallion 11 and the payment terminal (for example, 17b) and may be performed by vending machines, cash registers, and other payment terminals that do not require the presence of a staff representative or a cashier. In addition, the accelerated payment process can be applied through the staff version of the application. Namely, through the staff version of the application, the staff member can authenticate the visitor by visually recognizing the visitor based on the comparison of the visitor's appearance with a photo stored in the visitor's profile. In particular, the visitor interaction system 10 may prompt a staff member using the staff version of the application to authorize a payment associated with the visitor's bank account. The offer may be displayed in response to a selection by a staff member through the application, such as placing an order on behalf of the visitor (e.g., ordering food or drink, registering for a tour, booking seats for a performance, upgrading a room, paying to play a game, or the like. ). An offer may typically rely on two complementary identification methods to allow personnel to authorize a payment, although a different number of identification methods (including one identification method) may be used. For example, the offer may rely on an end device 18 running a staff version of the application that detects a visitor's medallion 11 from which payment is to be taken (for example, using BLE and NFC communication methods to locate the medallion 11), obtains profile information (including a photo ) of the detected medallion 11 from the server 21, displays a photo of the visitor associated with the medallion 11, prompts the staff member to visually confirm that the visitor the staff member is interacting with matches the displayed photo, and after receiving confirmation from the staff member that the visitor matches the photo, is processing the payment. In this example, the two complementary methods of identification used are detection of the medallion 11 and visual confirmation of the visitor's identity, although other methods (and different numbers and combinations) may be used in other examples.

The visitor interaction system 10 also provides a pathfinding function and provides an interface for pathfinding through the visitor interaction application. The path finding function provided by the visitor interaction system 10 can be used to find a path in a moving coordinate system as well as in a fixed coordinate system. For example, in the case of finding a way on a cruise ship, traditional positioning systems such as GPS cannot be easily used for several reasons. First, the cruise ship can move, and therefore the ship's pathfinding must be based on the ship's moving frame of reference, and not on a stationary (eg, terrestrial) frame of reference. As a result, GPS-based positioning and other fixed frame positionings are of limited use because the user's GPS-based position cannot be used to determine the user's location relative to a moving ship. Second, a cruise ship includes significant masses of metal and other surfaces that interfere with GPS signal propagation (so that GPS signals cannot be received inside the ship) and/or result in significant signal interference due to electromagnetic reflections from metal surfaces. . As a result, conventional positioning systems are generally inefficient for finding a path on a ship.

- 24 040780

To address the above drawbacks, the visitor interaction system 10 provides its own path-finding function based on the network of sensors 13 of the visitor interaction system 10. More specifically, the visitor interaction system 10 maintains a database of locations where medallions 11 have been found. Each entry in the database includes a medallion identifier (e.g., the open identifier of the medallion 11 that is broadcast as part of the beacon signal of the device), a location identifier (e.g. , location identifier(s) of the sensor(s) 15 or other antenna or device that detected the beacon signal and/or a more accurate location based on triangulation, multilateration or other location method), and a timestamp. Thus, the location determination performed by the visitor interaction system 10 may be based on the sensors of the sensor network 13 as well as beacon signals detected by end devices 18, interface devices 17, and the like. As stated earlier, positioning can be performed with different levels of accuracy depending on the types of sensors 15 by which the beacon signals were detected (for example, point sensors provide more detailed position information than omnidirectional sensors), depending on the number of sensors 15, detected beacon signals, depending on whether triangulation, multilateration, transmission delay or signal strength information from several sensors are used, etc.

The pathfinding function provided by the visitor interaction system 10, including the pathfinding provided by the visitor interaction application, is thus provided based on the location determination performed by the visitor interaction system 10. Namely, the location of the visitors is determined by the server 21 of the visitor interaction system 10 by determining the location of the user medallion 11 and reporting the detected location to the visitor via the visitor interaction application. For example, the visitor's location may be displayed overlaid on a map or a 3D ship model shown in an application user interface provided on the end device 18 currently being used by the visitor. Thus, the position of the visitor is not generally determined by the end device 18 used by the visitor, but instead the position of the visitor is generally determined by the visitor interaction system 10 (e.g., the server 21 of the visitor interaction system 10) based on the location of the visitor medallion 11 detected by the sensor network. 13 system 10 interaction with visitors.

It should be noted that, as described above, the sensor network 13 of the visitor interaction system 10 may extend to several different objects, including objects located on the ship and objects located outside the ship. Thus, the visitor interaction system 10 can be used to provide accurate location and pathfinding on any of the objects, including stationary objects (eg, terrestrial), moving objects (eg, located on a ship), and objects, including both stationary and moving components (for example, objects visited by passengers during a cruise, which may include both objects on the ship and objects on the ground). In such cases, the visitor interaction system 10 may automatically determine the visitor's position according to an appropriate fixed or moving coordinate system, depending on whether the visitor is currently in a fixed (eg, terrestrial) or moving (eg, ship) coordinate system, and provide location information by the visitor interaction application in a coordinate system determined to correspond to the visitor's current position.

As detailed above, the visitor interaction system 10 may determine the position/location of the visitor based on the medallion 11 and more specifically based on the locations at which the beacon signals emitted by the medallion 11 are detected. the known location at which each sensor 15 is installed, and the detection range of each sensor (eg, the shape and orientation of the directional detection range). The discovery may also rely on the detection of beacons by end devices 18, including end devices 18 having variable locations, such as mobile devices 18a and tablet computers 18b. More specifically, in the case of end devices 18, the locations of end devices 18 having fixed locations may be stored on the servers 21 of the visitor interaction system 10, and the stored location information may be used to determine the locations of detected medallions 11.

In the case of mobile end devices 18, the visitor interaction system 10 may rely on two sources of information to determine the current location of the end device 18 and thus infer the location of medallions 11 detected by the end device 18. First, the visitor interaction system 10 may receive periodic reports from end devices 18 including identifiers of the medallions 11 from which the beacon signals were detected and can infer the location of the medallion 11 by determining the location of the end device 18 from which the report was received. The visitor interaction system 10 can then determine the location of the end device 18 based on the Wi-Fi ID.

- 25 040780 or other wireless access point, through which the end device 18 is connected to the communication network 19 of the system 10. To this end, the visitor interaction system 10 maintains a database that identifies the installation location of each wireless access point at the facility, and uses the database to identify the locations of the end devices 18 and medallions 11 detected by the end devices 18. The wireless access point ID may be reported to the visitor interaction system 10 by the end device 18 or determined by the visitor interaction system 10 based on header information that is contained in packets received from the end device 18.

Second, as part of the periodic reports received from the end devices 18 and identifying medallions 11 detected by the end devices, the visitor interaction system 10 may receive information about the location of the end devices 18 when such information is available. The location information reported by the end device 18 may be a location determined by the end device 18 based on the end device's own positioning function, such as GPS-based positioning. In such situations, the visitor interaction system 10 may use the reported location information provided by the end device 18 to determine the location of the medallions 11 detected by the end device 18. The GPS of the ship on which the end device 18) is traveling to determine the position of the end device 18 relative to the moving coordinate system.

The pathfinding function may be used by the visitor interaction system 10 to allow a user of the visitor interaction application to locate another visitor or staff member by tracking the other visitor or staff member in real time. This visitor tracking feature can be used by a visitor to locate another visitor (e.g. boyfriend/girlfriend, spouse, child, ...) and by a staff member or host to determine the location of the visitor (e.g. to deliver food, drink or other order, or to provide other assistance to the visitor). The visitor tracking function allows one user of the application to receive, through the visitor interaction application, information about the current location of another visitor as determined by the visitor interaction system 10, including a display of the current location of another visitor superimposed on a map or a 3D model of a ship (or other object) shown in application user interface. The visitor tracking function also allows one user to be given directions to find the path to the current location of another visitor based on a combination of the user's location (determined by the visitor interaction system 10 based on the detected location of the user's medallion 11) and another visitor's location (determined by the visitor interaction system 10 based on the detected medallion location 11 of another visitor). The locations may be updated in real time as the user and visitor move through the facility, and the directions for finding the path may be updated accordingly in real time.

The above-described functions of the visitor interaction system 10 may enable the provision of the following services (described in an illustrative context in terms of a cruise ship).

The visitor interaction system 10 via the visitor interaction application allows visitors to interact with the system from outside the facility in which the system is installed. For example, visitors can interact from home by accessing their profile through the web version of the application or through the end device 18 (eg, mobile phone 18a, tablet computer 18b, desktop computer 18d, or the like) running the application. Visitors can then complete their visitor profile at their own time by entering any required documentation such as passport information, filling out health forms, entering travel details and indicating their preferred form of payment. Visitors can also upload photos, create a digital avatar to further personalize their profile, and arrange or book services such as expedited delivery of their luggage directly to their cabin.

Guests can also interact while at the airport, in particular when visitors receive their medallions 11 well in advance of travel. For example, in the case where visitors are traveling to a facility using the visitor interaction system 10, staff members may meet the visitors at the airport of arrival. In this example, airport staff members may be equipped with end devices 18 running a visitor interaction application. Staff members can use the end devices 18 and the application to detect incoming visitor medallions 11, obtain visitor profile information including photos, and recognize visitors based on the proximity of medallions 11 and visual recognition of visitors based on photographs. Thus, staff representatives can personally greet visitors, confirm the status of their documents and guide them around the airport (for example, to direct visitors to the fleet of buses heading to the port terminal).

While on the bus, visitors can again access the visitor application with their end devices 18 (e.g., mobile phones 18a or tablet computers 18b) to explore the options offered at the target site (e.g., cruise ship, in one example), book events and learn more about the people, places and cultures they will encounter.

Additionally, upon arrival at the cruise terminal (for example, in the example of a cruise ship), visitors may be able to board the ship with minimal additional interaction with staff members, since visitors are already equipped with their medallions 11, which act as a key to their cabins. Additionally, staff representatives at the terminal can use the end devices 18 running the staff application to identify arriving visitors, identify visitors who have not yet completed the registration process, in order to approach these visitors and help them complete this process.

Further examples of interface devices 17 that can be used as part of the visitor interaction system 10 are gaming stations 100, such as those shown in FIG. 10. Gaming stations 100 provide an environment in which visitors can participate in games, including games of chance, party games with other visitors, and one-on-one games against other visitors.

Each play station 100 typically includes an ergonomic seat 101 for multiple occupants (e.g., four occupants in the examples shown in FIG. 10), although a single occupant play station 100 or modular game stations 100 for a variable number of occupants may also be used. The seat 101 is capable of placing occupants opposite each other with a central frame positioned between the occupants and supporting the gaming station components. Some visitors can also be seated next to each other, as shown in FIG. 10. The gaming station 100 also includes one or more display screens 102 attached to the central frame and used to display game screens and images to users, and input devices 103 such as keyboards, touch pads, touch displays or the like, attached to the central frame and used to receive input from users. Input devices 103 may also include microphones (e.g., a microphone array containing multiple microphones located at different locations in gaming station 100), optical sensors, and/or ultrasonic proximity sensors used to provide enhanced user input, user position data, and /or data on the movements of users within the gaming station.

The gaming station 100 also includes one or more sensors 15 (not shown) that are installed within the station 100 (for example, in hidden or isolated places) and are used to identify visitors currently sitting in the station 100 or otherwise using the station. 100. The sensors 15 are used to detect medallions 11 of users of the station 100 in order to allow users to log in with their accounts to the gaming station 100 and participate in the game. The sensors 15 can also be used to create secure connections with the medallions 11 of users of the station 100 to authenticate the medallions 11 and participate in payment transactions. In general, the sensors 15 have detection beams directed at the seat 101 of the gaming station 100 so as to detect the medallions 11 of visitors who are seated in the gaming station 100. In some examples, the detection beams of the sensors 15 are adjusted so that only the medallions 11 that are within the gaming station 100 can be detected by sensors 15. In one example, sensors 15 are positioned and adjusted to detect medallions 11 at each seat location separately so that the gaming station can distinguish between occupants at each individual seat location. The seat location can be defined as an area two feet wide at a height of zero to 5 feet from the floor and one foot from the edge of the table (to cover the handbag/bag at the feet of the user) to three feet from the edge of the table. The medallions 11 can be detected when they are in an accessory, pocket (front or back) or bag within the seat location.

In some embodiments, gaming station 100 also includes a canopy 105 extending over seat 101 of gaming station 100. In the examples shown in FIG. 10, the canopy 105 is supported by two struts 107 and is made of a translucent material or mesh material. The struts 107 support the canopy 105 and contain embedded lighting (eg, LED lighting) used to provide multi-colored lighting. The lighting may be under control of the processor of the gaming station 100 to output lighting having an activation pattern and/or a color scheme that is synchronized with the game being played on the gaming station 100. atomizers

- 27 040780 substance with certain smells/aromas. The aerosol dispensers may be connected to a water supply valve or a container (e.g., fragrance container) via a conduit extending through the spacers 107 and into the seat 101 of the gaming station 100. The aerosol dispensers connected to the water supply valve may be selectively controlled by the processor of the gaming station 100 for releasing an aqueous spray having an activation circuit that is synchronized with the game being played on the game station 100. The spray dispensers connected to one or more containers of a substance with a certain smell can be selectively controlled by the processor of the game station 100 to release substances with a certain smell (or mixtures of substances with a specific odor) having activation patterns and/or aromas that are synchronized with the game played on the gaming station 100. Separate aerosol dispensers and conduits may be provided in spacers 107 for separate and independent supply of aerosol and substances with a certain smell. Additionally, different aerosol dispensers and pipelines can be provided to release different substances with a certain smell in the gaming station 100.

The gaming station 100 typically includes additional sensory feedback for users in addition to the visual feedback provided by displays and lighting. For example, gaming station 100 typically includes speakers for audio feedback (e.g., speakers attached to the center frame, seat 101, and struts 107) as well as tactile or contact feedback provided by actuators attached to input devices 103. and user seat 101, among other locations.

The gaming station 100 may also include one or more outward-facing displays 109 that may display game screens and images in real time to allow other attendees to watch the game progress. In some examples, the outwardly facing display 109 is touch-sensitive and allows viewers to participate in the game and/or bet on the results of the game and the players. In such examples, the gaming station 100 may include one or more outward-facing sensors 15 positioned to detect visitor medallions 11 in front of the outward-facing display 109. The outward-facing sensors 15 may be used to detect visitor medallions 11 and to allow these visitors to enter under account to the gaming station 100 via the outward-facing display 109 to allow attendees to participate in and bet on the gaming process. The outward-facing displays 109 can also be used by patrons to register or queue for a game so that patrons can be invited to join the game in order or queue of registration as seats become available at the gaming station 100.

The operation of the game station 100 may be controlled by a computer platform located within the seat 101. The computer platform typically includes one or more processors (e.g., three or more processors in some embodiments), a memory device that stores program instructions for the game process, a power supply ( for example, including an uninterruptible power supply (UPS)) and connections to each of the displays 103 and 109 and input devices 102. The computer platform is also connected via a communication network 19 to the servers 21 of the visitor interaction system 10. The computer platform is additionally connected to the actuators that control the aerosol dispensers, as well as to the control devices that control lighting, sound, and tactile or contact feedback. Various feedback methods can be controlled individually for each player's seat so that different players can be provided with different sensory feedback (including aerosol spray, smells, sound, tactile, contact, light, and display) at any time under the control of the computer platform.

In FIG. 11 and 12 show illustrations of block diagrams of hardware platforms for general purpose computers. In FIG. 11 depicts a network or host computer platform that can typically be used to implement a server, such as any of the servers 21 described herein. In FIG. 12 shows a computer with user interface elements that can be used to implement a portal (eg 17d) or other type of workstation or end device of the visitor interaction system 10, although the computer of FIG. 12 can also act as a server if programmed accordingly. It is believed that those skilled in the art are familiar with the structure, programming, and general operation of such computer equipment, and as a result, the graphics should be self-explanatory.

The server, for example, includes a communication interface for transmitting data packets. The server also includes a central processing unit (CPU) in the form of one or more processors for executing software instructions. The server platform typically includes an internal communication bus, software storage, and data storage for various data files that the server needs to process and/or transfer, although the server often receives programs and data via network communication. The hardware elements, operating systems, and programming languages of such servers are traditional in nature and it is expected that experts in

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Claims (25)

in the art are fairly familiar with them. Of course, server functions can be implemented in a distributed manner on several such platforms in order to distribute the load for data processing. Unless otherwise noted, all measurements, values, ratings, positions, absolute values, sizes and other specifications set forth in this technical description, including the following claims, are approximate and not exact. They are expected to have a reasonable range according to the functions they are associated with and the accepted norms in the area to which they relate. The scope of protection is limited only by the claims presented below. This scope is intended and should be regarded as the broadest possible meaning of the language used in the claims when interpreted in the light of this technical specification and the following application history, and should cover all structural and functional equivalents. It is intended, however, that none of the claims cover subject matter that does not meet the requirements of sections 101, 102, or 103 of the Patent Act and should not be construed as such. Thus, any inadvertent coverage of such subject matter is disclaimed. Except as stated immediately above, nothing stated or depicted is intended to or should be construed as a release to the public of any component, step, feature, object, benefit, advantage or equivalent. It will be understood that the terms and expressions used in this application have the usual meaning corresponding to such terms and expressions in relation to the respective fields of study and study, except when specific meanings have been otherwise set forth herein. Relationship terms such as first and second, etc., may be used solely to distinguish one object or action from another and do not necessarily require or imply any such actual relationship or order between such objects or actions. The terms contains, contains, or any variation thereof are intended to have a non-exclusive scope, so that a process, method, product, or apparatus that includes a list of elements includes not only these elements, but may include other elements that are not listed. explicitly or which are inherent in such a process, method, product or device. A singular element does not exclude, without further limitation, the presence of additional identical elements in a process, method, article, or device that contains the element. The abstract is provided so that the reader can quickly understand the essence of the technical description. It is provided with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. In addition, in the foregoing detailed description, it can be seen that various features are grouped together in various embodiments for the purpose of simplifying the description. This manner of disclosure should not be construed as reflecting the intent that the claimed embodiments require more features than are explicitly listed in each claim. Instead, as the following claims reflect, the innovative subject matter lies in less than all of the features of one disclosed embodiment. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated into the detailed description, with each claim standing on its own as a subject matter claimed separately. While what is considered to be the best practice and/or other examples have been described above, it should be understood that various modifications may be made to them and that the subject matter disclosed herein may be embodied in various forms and examples, and that the ideas can be applied to numerous applications, only a few of which have been described in this document. The following claims are intended to cover any and all uses, modifications, and variations falling within the true scope of the present teachings. CLAIM 1. A portable wireless user node containing a wireless device (11) having a device body of a conical shape, including a front surface (11a) made so as to face away from the user's body, a back surface (11b) made so as to be facing the body of the user, and the rear surface (11b) has the same shape as the front surface (11a), but larger than the front surface (11a), and the cavity in which the processor (603) and at least one antenna (513, 515) wireless; and an accessory (201) configured to be worn by the user on the body, wherein the accessory has an accessory body having opposite outer and inner surfaces, designed to be respectively facing away from and towards the user's body when the accessory (201) is worn. ) on the user's body, wherein the accessory body has a conical cavity extending between the inner and outer surfaces and configured to accommodate the wireless device (11) with the possibility of its extraction, the conical cavity includes a front opening in the outer surface of the accessory body, having a smaller size than the rear hole in the inner surface of the accessory case, while the front hole has the same shape, but smaller than the front and rear surfaces (11a, 11b) of the device case, to prevent the wireless device (11) from passing through the front hole. 2. The assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that the front surface of the housing is round, the rear surface is round and has a diameter greater than the diameter of the front surface. 3. The assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that the angle between the front surface and the side surface of the conical body of the device is essentially equal to the angle between the outer surface of the body of the accessory and the side surface of the conical cavity in the body of the accessory. 4. The node according to claim 3, characterized in that the angle between the front surface and the side surface of the conical housing of the device is in the range from 86 to 88° and the angle between the outer surface of the accessory housing and the side surface of the conical cavity is in the range from 86 to 88° . 5. The node according to claim 1, characterized in that the wireless device includes at least two magnets built into the device housing and located near the outer periphery of the device housing; and the accessory includes at least two magnets embedded in the body of the accessory and located near the periphery of the cavity, wherein the magnets of the wireless device and the accessory are positioned or oriented to maintain the wireless device in a particular angular orientation relative to the accessory when the wireless device is in the cavity. accessory. 6. The node according to claim 5, characterized in that the wireless device contains four magnets and the accessory contains four magnets, and at least two adjacent magnets of the four magnets of the wireless device have a pole of the same polarity facing the outer periphery of the device housing, and along at least two neighboring magnets of the four magnets of the accessory have a pole of the same polarity facing the periphery of the cavity. 7. The node according to claim 5, characterized in that the device housing contains an open metal ring along the outer periphery of the device housing, and the open metal ring includes at least one gap along the outer periphery of the device housing; the accessory body includes an open metal ring along the periphery of the cavity, the open metal ring including at least one gap along the periphery of the cavity; and the magnets of the wireless device and the accessory are positioned or oriented to maintain at least one gap in the open metal ring of the device body proximate at least one gap in the open metal ring of the cavity when the wireless device is in the cavity of the accessory. 8. A portable wireless user device (11) containing a device body having a conical shape, containing a front surface (11a) made so as to face away from the user's body, and a back surface (11b) made so as to face to the body of the user, and the rear surface (11b) has the same shape as the front surface (11a), and the size exceeds the size of the front surface (11a), and the device housing includes a cavity in which the processor (603) and at least one wireless antenna (513, 515). 9. The wireless device according to claim 8, characterized in that the front surface of the housing is round and the back surface is round and has a diameter greater than the diameter of the front surface. 10. The wireless device of claim 8, wherein the housing comprises an open metal ring along the outer periphery of the housing and the open metal ring includes at least one gap along the outer periphery of the housing. 11. Wireless device according to claim 10, characterized in that the non-conductive material is located in at least one gap in the open metal ring. 12. Wireless device according to claim 8, characterized in that the angle between the front surface and the side surface of the conical housing is in the range from 86 to 88°. 13. The wireless device according to claim 8, characterized in that the maximum dimensions of the front and rear surfaces of the conical housing are not more than 2.5 inches and the thickness of the conical housing is not more than 5/8 inch. - 30 040780 14. The wireless device according to claim 8, characterized in that it further comprises four magnets built into the housing and located near the outer periphery of the housing, while at least two neighboring magnets of the four magnets have a pole of the same polarity facing the outer periphery corps. 15. The wireless device according to claim 8, characterized in that the housing further comprises in the cavity at least two wireless communication antennas, each of which is configured to communicate using a different communication standard. 16. The wireless device according to claim 15, characterized in that the housing contains in the cavity a first wireless communication antenna configured to communicate using the Bluetooth low energy (BLE) standard, and a second wireless communication antenna configured to communicate using the Bluetooth low energy (BLE) standard. Near Field Communication (NFC). 17. The wireless device of claim 16, wherein the first wireless communication antenna is J-shaped. 18. Accessory (201), made with the possibility of being worn by the user on the body, containing the body of the accessory, having opposite inner and outer surfaces, made in such a way as to be respectively facing the user's body and away from him when wearing the accessory (201) on the user's body, wherein the accessory body has a conical cavity extending between the inner and outer surfaces, wherein the conical cavity contains a front hole in the outer surface of the accessory body, having the same shape, but smaller in comparison with the rear hole in the inner surface of the accessory body, and the accessory body made with the ability to accommodate with the possibility of removing the wireless device (11), having a device body of a conical shape, including a front surface (11a) and a rear surface (11b) having the same shape as the front surface (11a), but larger than the front surface (11a), while the front The hole has the same shape but is smaller than the front and back surfaces (11a, 11b) of the device body to prevent the wireless device (11) from passing through the front opening. 19. Accessory according to claim 18, characterized in that the front and rear holes are round, and the rear hole has a diameter greater than the diameter of the front hole. 20. The accessory according to claim 18, wherein the housing comprises an open metal ring along the periphery of the cavity, the open metal ring including at least one gap along the periphery of the cavity. 21. Accessory according to claim 20, characterized in that the non-conductive material is located in at least one gap in the open metal ring. 22. The accessory according to claim 20, further comprising a non-conductive layer located on at least a portion of the surface of the open metal ring facing the cavity. 23. Accessory according to claim 20, characterized in that the non-conductive layer is located on the surface of the open metal ring facing the cavity so as to cover at least one gap. 24. Accessory according to claim 18, characterized in that the angle between the outer surface and the side surface of the conical cavity is in the range from 86 to 88°. 25. Accessory according to claim 18, characterized in that it additionally contains four magnets built into the housing and located near the periphery of the cavity, while at least two neighboring magnets of the four magnets have a pole of the same polarity facing the periphery of the cavity. -