EP2696330A1 - Method for activity tracking - Google Patents
Method for activity tracking Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP2696330A1 EP2696330A1 EP12179616.3A EP12179616A EP2696330A1 EP 2696330 A1 EP2696330 A1 EP 2696330A1 EP 12179616 A EP12179616 A EP 12179616A EP 2696330 A1 EP2696330 A1 EP 2696330A1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- ticket
- gaming
- account number
- user
- game
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Ceased
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Classifications
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- G—PHYSICS
- G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
- G07F—COIN-FREED OR LIKE APPARATUS
- G07F17/00—Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articles; Coin-freed facilities or services
- G07F17/32—Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articles; Coin-freed facilities or services for games, toys, sports, or amusements
- G07F17/3225—Data transfer within a gaming system, e.g. data sent between gaming machines and users
- G07F17/3232—Data transfer within a gaming system, e.g. data sent between gaming machines and users wherein the operator is informed
- G07F17/3237—Data transfer within a gaming system, e.g. data sent between gaming machines and users wherein the operator is informed about the players, e.g. profiling, responsible gaming, strategy/behavior of players, location of players
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- G—PHYSICS
- G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
- G07F—COIN-FREED OR LIKE APPARATUS
- G07F17/00—Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articles; Coin-freed facilities or services
- G07F17/32—Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articles; Coin-freed facilities or services for games, toys, sports, or amusements
- G07F17/3225—Data transfer within a gaming system, e.g. data sent between gaming machines and users
- G07F17/3232—Data transfer within a gaming system, e.g. data sent between gaming machines and users wherein the operator is informed
- G07F17/3237—Data transfer within a gaming system, e.g. data sent between gaming machines and users wherein the operator is informed about the players, e.g. profiling, responsible gaming, strategy/behavior of players, location of players
- G07F17/3239—Tracking of individual players
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- G—PHYSICS
- G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
- G07F—COIN-FREED OR LIKE APPARATUS
- G07F17/00—Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articles; Coin-freed facilities or services
- G07F17/32—Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articles; Coin-freed facilities or services for games, toys, sports, or amusements
- G07F17/3244—Payment aspects of a gaming system, e.g. payment schemes, setting payout ratio, bonus or consolation prizes
- G07F17/3251—Payment aspects of a gaming system, e.g. payment schemes, setting payout ratio, bonus or consolation prizes involving media of variable value, e.g. programmable cards, programmable tokens
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- G—PHYSICS
- G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
- G07F—COIN-FREED OR LIKE APPARATUS
- G07F17/00—Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articles; Coin-freed facilities or services
- G07F17/32—Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articles; Coin-freed facilities or services for games, toys, sports, or amusements
- G07F17/326—Game play aspects of gaming systems
- G07F17/3267—Game outcomes which determine the course of the subsequent game, e.g. double or quits, free games, higher payouts, different new games
Definitions
- the invention relates to a method for tracking the activity of the user of a gaming machine according to claim 1. Moreover the invention relates to a gaming system for tracking the activity of a user of a gaming machine, according to claim 7.
- bonus card systems are known from the state of the art. These systems are tracking the activity of the user on gaming systems etc. All these systems typically make use of bonus cards or bonus chips, which are handed to the user. When the user plays a game on a gaming machine he or she provides the chip or bonus card to the gaming machine, so that the gaming machine identifies the identity of the user and tracks the activity of the user.
- the invention solves this problem by providing a method for tracking the activity of a user of a gaming machine, said gaming machine being connected to a server with a database, wherein an account number is assigned to a user and a tracking ticket is created for said user, wherein on the tracking ticket a respective code for the account number is printed and provided to the user, and wherein a record of said database is created, the account number being assigned to the record as a key value.
- a connection to the server is established and the tracking ticket is read by the gaming machine, and at the end of the game the said tracking ticket or a further tracking ticket, on which a code encoding the account number is printed, is provided to the user.
- a data packet comprising the account number of the ticket as well as further gaming information, preferably an identification number of the gaming machine, and/or a time stamp, and/or information on the results of the game, is provided to the server and stored to the record having the same account number as the packet.
- Such a gaming method can be easily provided by a hardware of a gaming apparatus as known from the state of the art. It is not necessary to add further components, such as card reader devices, because existing gaming machines typically comprise a ticket reader and ticket writer in order to process cash tickets.
- the method according to the invention can be performed by the hardware of a gaming apparatus as known from the state of art, wherein only a software update is required.
- an account number is invalidated after a predefined time limit, preferably a time limit between one and ten days, as from the creation of the record or as from the time, when last data were stored in the record and assigned to the account number.
- the invention can be carried out on a gaming machine which is already equipped with a cash ticketing system.
- a further cash ticket on which cash information is printed and encoded, is fed to the gaming machine and read by the gaming machine before the beginning of the game.
- the cash information is altered, preferably reduced, according to the results of the game.
- the cash ticket is printed and provided to the user.
- the tracking ticket and the cash ticket are printed by the ticket printer of the gaming machine and/or are read by the ticket reader of the gaming machine.
- the record or parts of the record whose key equals the account number of the tracking ticket, is or are sent to the gaming machine, wherein the gaming program of the gaming machine is modified according to said record.
- the motivation of users can be maintained or even raised with a bonus game or more favourable initialization of the game, which is offered to the user, if a bonus game or a more favourable initialization of the game is offered to the user, if the total number of entries or an aggregation, preferably a sum, of entries of the record, such as the number of previously played games or the gaming time, exceeds a predefined threshold value.
- a code corresponding to the account number is printed on the tracking ticket, and wherein said account number is preferably encrypted before encoding and printing.
- an erasable and re-printable tracking ticket is provided to the user, wherein the ticket is erased after reading by the gaming machine and re-printed before it is provided to the user.
- the one or more records exclusively contain the account number and information relating to the games, wherein preferably personal information is prohibited to be stored on said records.
- the invention solves the initially mentioned problem of the invention with a gaming system for tracking the activity of the user of a gaming machine, according to claim 7.
- Such a gaming system comprises a gaming server in the plurality of the gaming machines, the gaming server and the gaming machines being connected via a network. It is further provided, that the gaming server provides a database to store a plurality of records, each record having an account number as a key value. Each of the gaming machines comprises a gaming processor. Each of the gaming machines comprises a ticket reader and a ticket printer, and a network interface for providing a data connection to the database of the server. The account number is assigned to a user and a tracking ticket is created for said user, wherein on the tracking ticket a respective code for the account number is printed and provided to the user.
- the gaming processor Before or after or during the game the gaming processor generates a data packet comprising the account number of the tracking ticket as well as further gaming information, preferably an identification number of the gaming machine, and/or a time stamp, and/or information on the results of the game. After generating said data packet, the gaming processor sends said data packet to the server and forces the server to store the packet with the record having the same account number as the packet.
- Such a gaming system offers the possibility of tracking the activity of the user within the framework of an existing system hardware.
- the gaming system of the invention may be implemented by adapting a system of the state of the art via a software modification. It is therefore not necessary to modify the user interface and the design of the gaming machine.
- the server comprises an invalidation unit which invalidates records of the database after a predefined time limit, preferably from one to ten days, as from the creation of the record or as from storing the last data in said record.
- the invention can be carried out on a gaming machine which is already equipped with a cash ticketing system.
- the ticket reader is prepared to read a cash ticket on which cash information is printed and encoded
- the gaming processor amends the cash information according to the results of the game and forces the ticket printer to print a new cash ticket on which the amended cash information is printed and encoded, so that the ticket and the cash ticket are printed by the same printer and/or are read by the same ticket reader.
- the server In order to make use of the tracking information on the activity of the user it can be provided, that wherein on receiving a query on an account number of a gaming machine, the server provides the record having said account number to the respective gaming machine.
- the gaming processor of a gaming machine sends a query regarding the account number of the ticket to the server and receives the record stored in the database having said account number.
- the gaming processor compares the total number of entries of the record or an aggregation, preferably a sum, of entries of the record, such as the number of previously played games or the gaming time, with a threshold value and determines, if said predefined threshold value is exceeded.
- the gaming processor is programmed to offer the user a bonus game or a more favourable initialization of the game, if said threshold is exceeded.
- the gaming processor and/or the ticket printer is programmed to encode, and preferably to encrypt, the account number before printing, and/or wherein the gaming processor and/or the ticket reader is programmed to decode, and preferably to decrypt, the account number printed on the tracking ticket before reading.
- the ticket printer In order to reuse a ticket for multiple gaming events it can be provided, that wherein the ticket printer is provided to erase and re-print tickets and provide tickets to the user, the ticket printer erasing and reprinting the tracking ticket after being read by the ticket reader.
- one or more records are provided to exclusively contain the account number and information relating to the games, and/or wherein said records do not comprise any personal information on the user.
- Fig. 1 schematically shows a typical system according to the preferred embodiment of a gaming system.
- Fig. 2 schematically illustrates the system architecture of a gaming machine.
- Fig. 3 schematically illustrates a flow diagram for initialising a game.
- Fig. 4 shows a detail of Fig. 3 regarding the amendment of the game.
- Fig. 5 shows the content of the database which stores the activities of the user.
- Fig. 1 schematically shows a preferred example of the invention comprising a server 1 with a database 11 and a plurality of gaming machines 2.
- the server 1 and the gaming machines 2 are connected via a computer network 6, wherein the server 1 comprises a network interface 12 and each of the gaming machines 2 comprises a network interface 23.
- Each of the gaming machines 2, which are connected to the server 1 via the network 6 comprises a gaming processor 20 ( Fig. 2 ) and gaming peripherals.
- Each of the gaming machines 2 comprises a display 27 and a cashoutbutton 26.
- the first gaming machine 2, which is shown on the left side of Fig. 1 comprises a single joystick 28, the second gaming machine 2, which is schematically shown in the middle of Fig. 1 comprises a keyboard 29 and the third gaming machine 2, which is shown on the right side of Fig. 1 comprises two joysticks 28.
- Each of the gaming machines 2 further comprises a ticket reader 21 and a ticket printer 22 for reading and printing tickets 3, 5.
- Fig. 2 schematically shows a gaming machine 2 of Fig. 1 in more detail.
- the gaming machine 2 shown in Fig. 2 comprises a gaming processor 20, on which a computer program for executing software implementing the respective game on the gaming machine 2 is run.
- the gaming processor 20 is connected with the peripherals 26, 27, 28, 29 of the gaming machine 2.
- the gaming processor 20 is connected to the computer network 6 via network interface 23.
- the gaming processor 20 is connected to a cash out button 26, a display 27, a keyboard 29 and to a ticket reader 21 and a ticket printer 22.
- the ticket reader 21 and the ticket printer 22 of this embodiment of the invention it is possible to read in tickets 3, 5 and print tickets 3, 5 with the same device.
- This device comprises only one slot, into which a ticket 3, 5 can be inserted and by which a printed ticket 3, 5 can be provided.
- Each of the gaming machines 2 of this preferred embodiment of the invention is programmed to read cash tickets 5 via the ticket reader 21 and to print cash tickets 5 via the ticket printer 22.
- a cash ticket 5 may be handed to the user after the payment of a defined amount of cash.
- the gaming processor 20 starts the game.
- the cash information 51 stored on the cash ticket 5 is changed according to the results of the game. If for example the user wins a game the amount of cash, which is stored on the cash ticket 5 is increased. If however the user loses the game a certain amount of the cash is subtracted from the initial cash information 51.
- a cash ticket 5 is printed and provided to the user, wherein the ticket printer 22 prints a new cash ticket 5 on which the changed cash information 51 is printed.
- each of the gaming machines 2 is connected to the server 1.
- the server 1 comprises a database 11, whose contents are shown in Fig. 5 .
- the database 11 provides a respective record 13 for each of the users, wherein each record 13 is uniquely assigned to one of the users of the gaming machine 2.
- an account number 31 is assigned to the user.
- the user is provided with a tracking ticket 3, on which a respective code for the account number 31 is printed.
- a record 13 of the database 11 is created.
- the account number 31 is assigned to the record 13 as key value. Therefore the respective record 13, which is assigned to the user can be accessed via the account number 31 stored on the tracking ticket 3 of the user.
- the record 13 assigned to the user is empty.
- the user Before starting a game on the gaming machine 2 the user is invited to provide his tracking ticket 3 to the gaming machine 2. The user inserts the tracking ticket 3 into the slot of the ticket reader 21, which reads the information printed on the tracking ticket 3 and determines the account number 31 stored on the tracking ticket 3. After reading the tracking ticket 3 the gaming machine 2 invites the user to provide a cash ticket 5 and to start the game.
- bills and/or coins may be provided via a bill acceptor 61 and/or coin acceptor 62 of the gaming machine 2 to start the game.
- Fig. 3 shows a diagram that illustrates the initialization of a game.
- a tracking ticket 3 provided by the user is read by the ticket reader 21.
- the account number 31 of the tracking ticket 3 is provided to the gaming processor 20.
- the gaming processor 20 determines whether the ticket 3, 5 provided by the user is a cash ticket 5 or a tracking ticket 3. If the ticket 3, 5 provided by the user is a cash ticket 5 a game is started (step 140). If, however, the ticket 3, 5 provided by the user is not a cash ticket 5 then the gaming processor 20 determines whether the ticket 3, 5 provided by the user is a tracking ticket 3 (step 120).
- the ticket 3, 5 provided by the user is neither a cash ticket 5 nor a tracking ticket 3 the user is invited to provide a further ticket 3, 5. If, however, the ticket 3, 5 provided by the user is a tracking ticket 3, then an initialization step 130 for altering the game is carried out. After this initialization step 130 the game is stored respectively ready for operation.
- a preferred method for the initialization the game in a way more favourable to the user is shown.
- the account number 31, which is stored on the tracking ticket 3 is extracted.
- the gaming processor 20 sends a query 7 to the server 1 wherein the query 7 comprises the account number 31 stored on the tracking ticket 3.
- the query 7 is sent by the gaming processor 20 via the network interface 23, the computer network 6 and the network interface 12 of the server 1 to the server 1.
- step 133 the server 1 processes the query 7 and identifies the record 13, which is assigned to the account number 31 of the query 7.
- the server 1 sends the record 13, which is assigned to the account number 31 to the gaming machine 2 via the computer network 6.
- the gaming processor subsequently receives (step 134) and analyses the record 13.
- the game provided by the gaming controller 12 is initialized in a more favourable way to the user.
- a predefined threshold value in this preferred example a threshold value of the games, or 25 minutes, or a loss of a certain amount of money is used.
- the game is started (step 140).
- the gaming processor 20 After the end of the game the gaming processor 20 generates a data packet 4, which comprises the account number of the tracking ticket 3 as well as further gaming information, namely an identification number 42 of the gaming machine, a time stamp 43 and information of the results 44 of the game.
- the results 44 of the game indicate the amount of cash the user won or lost during the game.
- the packet 4 is sent to the server 1 as an update request. When the server 1 obtains the data packet 4 the update request stored on that data packet is inserted into the record 13 of the user.
- Fig. 5 shows the contents of the database 1, wherein four users are registered to the system and user is provided with a tracking respective ticket 3, each with different account numbers.
- the first user was provided a ticket on which the account number "151" was stored.
- the first user lost EUR 30,- on a gaming apparatus with an identification number "15”, on at 19:30 the same user won EUR 5,- a gaming apparatus with the identification number "17".
- the ticket printer 22 comprises a decryption module, so that an encrypted code corresponding to the account number 31 is printed on the tracking ticket 3.
- the account number 31 is encrypted before being printed on the tracking ticket 3.
- the ticket reader 21 comprises a decryption module, which decrypts the code printed on the ticket 3 and determines the account number 31 accordingly.
- the operation of the gaming machine 2 may be such that the sequence of receiving the tracking ticket 3 and issuing a new tracking ticket 3 shall be strictly adhered to. That is to say that in case if the account number 31 has been recognized by the gaming system then this account number 31 is locked until the regular new tracking ticket 3 is issued following the end of game play.
- the gaming system may generate an alarm message, for instance to the system operator, in the case if an identical account number 31 is being recognised within the gaming system.
- the gaming apparatus 2 of the gaming system comprises a ticket printer 22, which is provided to erase and reprint tickets 3, 5.
- a tracking ticket 3 or cash ticket 5 which is provided to the gaming machine 2 by the user is read by the ticket reader 21 and afterwards erased by the ticket printer 22. After the end of the game the tracking ticket 3 is reprinted and provided to the user.
- a further embodiment (not shown in detail in the Fig.) of the invention uses reprintable tickets 3, 5. Again, a common unit may be used, providing the functionality of the reader 21 and the printer 22. In this regard, reference is made to U.S. patent U.S. 5854477 , the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference.
- the paper/ticket may be coated with a UV light-sensitive chemical substance such that information can be deleted on the paper by irradiation with ultraviolet light.
- the paper may be coated with thermally sensitive substances.
- Such thermal printing papers have covered on it, for example, in an unactivated state colorless dye, known leuco dye, and a developer.
- the developer provides an activation of the dyes.
- the application of heat melts and merges these materials, i.e. their molecules bind together in a chemical reaction.
- Leuco dyes that have reacted with the developer may produce such as black, blue and other colours. By separating back the coloured leuco dye and developer the colours are "deleted", i.e. so that the displayed information is lost.
- Staining and de-colouring are caused by differences in the effect of temperature on the materials.
- the materials melt at higher temperature T1 (for example, 160° C) and subsequent quenching. Decolouration occurs if the paper is again heated, but to a slightly lower temperature T2.
- T1 for example, 160° C
- T2 for example, 160° C
- Decolouration occurs if the paper is again heated, but to a slightly lower temperature T2.
- One or more records 13 exclusively contain the account number 31 and information relating to the games. Personal information is prohibited to be stored on those records 13.
- a record 13 is invalidated and further gaming information 41, preferably the identification number of the gaming machine 2 a time stamp or information 44 on the results of the game, are prohibited from storage.
- the time limit for storing data to an account may be determined as from the time when the last data were stored to the record 13. A tracking ticket 3 becomes therefore invalid after a time limit of non-use.
- a tracking ticket 3 may be initially issued to the user (patron) at a register desk or self-register desk.
- a register desk may comprise a ticket printer and a data connection to the server 1 and database 11.
Abstract
Description
- The invention relates to a method for tracking the activity of the user of a gaming machine according to claim 1. Moreover the invention relates to a gaming system for tracking the activity of a user of a gaming machine, according to
claim 7. - Various different bonus card systems are known from the state of the art. These systems are tracking the activity of the user on gaming systems etc. All these systems typically make use of bonus cards or bonus chips, which are handed to the user. When the user plays a game on a gaming machine he or she provides the chip or bonus card to the gaming machine, so that the gaming machine identifies the identity of the user and tracks the activity of the user.
- Methods for tracking the activity of the user as known from the state of the art typically require gaming machines or servers which are prepared to read the effort mentioned bonus cards or chips. For this reason it is cumbersome and expensive to upgrade an existing gaming system, so as to make tracking of the activity of the user available. It is especially difficult to extend an existing gaming machine with a bonus card- or chip reading-device, because gaming machines typically have a user interface, that is defined by hardware components. Amendments to this user interface, would require a complete redesign of the gaming apparatus.
- It is therefore the objective of the invention to provide a lesser invasive or intrusive modification of a gaming apparatus as known from the state of the art, which is still able to track the activity of the user of a gaming machine within a network of gaming machines connected to a server.
- The invention solves this problem by providing a method for tracking the activity of a user of a gaming machine, said gaming machine being connected to a server with a database, wherein an account number is assigned to a user and a tracking ticket is created for said user, wherein on the tracking ticket a respective code for the account number is printed and provided to the user, and wherein a record of said database is created, the account number being assigned to the record as a key value. Before a game is started on a gaming machine a connection to the server is established and the tracking ticket is read by the gaming machine, and at the end of the game the said tracking ticket or a further tracking ticket, on which a code encoding the account number is printed, is provided to the user. Before or after or during the game a data packet comprising the account number of the ticket as well as further gaming information, preferably an identification number of the gaming machine, and/or a time stamp, and/or information on the results of the game, is provided to the server and stored to the record having the same account number as the packet.
- Such a gaming method can be easily provided by a hardware of a gaming apparatus as known from the state of the art. It is not necessary to add further components, such as card reader devices, because existing gaming machines typically comprise a ticket reader and ticket writer in order to process cash tickets. The method according to the invention can be performed by the hardware of a gaming apparatus as known from the state of art, wherein only a software update is required.
- In order to have tickets with a defined expire date it can be provided, that an account number is invalidated after a predefined time limit, preferably a time limit between one and ten days, as from the creation of the record or as from the time, when last data were stored in the record and assigned to the account number.
- Most preferably the invention can be carried out on a gaming machine which is already equipped with a cash ticketing system. In this particular case it is provided, that a further cash ticket, on which cash information is printed and encoded, is fed to the gaming machine and read by the gaming machine before the beginning of the game. The cash information is altered, preferably reduced, according to the results of the game. At the end of the game, preferably before printing the tracking ticket, the cash ticket is printed and provided to the user. The tracking ticket and the cash ticket are printed by the ticket printer of the gaming machine and/or are read by the ticket reader of the gaming machine.
- In order to make use of the tracking information on the activity of the user it can be provided, that before starting the game or during the game the record or parts of the record, whose key equals the account number of the tracking ticket, is or are sent to the gaming machine, wherein the gaming program of the gaming machine is modified according to said record.
- In particular the motivation of users can be maintained or even raised with a bonus game or more favourable initialization of the game, which is offered to the user, if a bonus game or a more favourable initialization of the game is offered to the user, if the total number of entries or an aggregation, preferably a sum, of entries of the record, such as the number of previously played games or the gaming time, exceeds a predefined threshold value.
- In order to pass on the account number via a ticket, it can be provided, that a code corresponding to the account number is printed on the tracking ticket, and wherein said account number is preferably encrypted before encoding and printing.
- In order to reuse a ticket for multiple gaming events it can be provided, that an erasable and re-printable tracking ticket is provided to the user, wherein the ticket is erased after reading by the gaming machine and re-printed before it is provided to the user.
- In order to maintain the users privacy while tracking his or her information on an individual and personalized account, it can be provided, that the one or more records exclusively contain the account number and information relating to the games, wherein preferably personal information is prohibited to be stored on said records.
- The invention solves the initially mentioned problem of the invention with a gaming system for tracking the activity of the user of a gaming machine, according to
claim 7. - Such a gaming system comprises a gaming server in the plurality of the gaming machines, the gaming server and the gaming machines being connected via a network. It is further provided, that the gaming server provides a database to store a plurality of records, each record having an account number as a key value. Each of the gaming machines comprises a gaming processor. Each of the gaming machines comprises a ticket reader and a ticket printer, and a network interface for providing a data connection to the database of the server. The account number is assigned to a user and a tracking ticket is created for said user, wherein on the tracking ticket a respective code for the account number is printed and provided to the user. Before or after or during the game the gaming processor generates a data packet comprising the account number of the tracking ticket as well as further gaming information, preferably an identification number of the gaming machine, and/or a time stamp, and/or information on the results of the game. After generating said data packet, the gaming processor sends said data packet to the server and forces the server to store the packet with the record having the same account number as the packet.
- Such a gaming system offers the possibility of tracking the activity of the user within the framework of an existing system hardware. The gaming system of the invention may be implemented by adapting a system of the state of the art via a software modification. It is therefore not necessary to modify the user interface and the design of the gaming machine.
- In order to have tickets with a defined expire date it can be provided, that wherein the server comprises an invalidation unit which invalidates records of the database after a predefined time limit, preferably from one to ten days, as from the creation of the record or as from storing the last data in said record.
- Most preferably the invention can be carried out on a gaming machine which is already equipped with a cash ticketing system. In this particular case it is provided, that wherein the ticket reader is prepared to read a cash ticket on which cash information is printed and encoded, and wherein before, during or after the game the gaming processor amends the cash information according to the results of the game and forces the ticket printer to print a new cash ticket on which the amended cash information is printed and encoded, so that the ticket and the cash ticket are printed by the same printer and/or are read by the same ticket reader.
- In order to make use of the tracking information on the activity of the user it can be provided, that wherein on receiving a query on an account number of a gaming machine, the server provides the record having said account number to the respective gaming machine.
- In particular the motivation of users can be maintained or even raised with a bonus game or more favourable initialization of the game, which is offered to the user, if after reading a tracking ticket the gaming processor of a gaming machine sends a query regarding the account number of the ticket to the server and receives the record stored in the database having said account number. The gaming processor compares the total number of entries of the record or an aggregation, preferably a sum, of entries of the record, such as the number of previously played games or the gaming time, with a threshold value and determines, if said predefined threshold value is exceeded. The gaming processor is programmed to offer the user a bonus game or a more favourable initialization of the game, if said threshold is exceeded.
- In order to pass on the account number via a ticket, it can be provided, that the gaming processor and/or the ticket printer is programmed to encode, and preferably to encrypt, the account number before printing, and/or wherein the gaming processor and/or the ticket reader is programmed to decode, and preferably to decrypt, the account number printed on the tracking ticket before reading.
- In order to reuse a ticket for multiple gaming events it can be provided, that wherein the ticket printer is provided to erase and re-print tickets and provide tickets to the user, the ticket printer erasing and reprinting the tracking ticket after being read by the ticket reader.
- In order to maintain the users privacy while tracking his or her information on an individual and personalized account, it can be provided, that one or more records are provided to exclusively contain the account number and information relating to the games, and/or wherein said records do not comprise any personal information on the user.
- The most preferred example of the invention is explained with respect to the
Fig. 1 to 5 . -
Fig. 1 schematically shows a typical system according to the preferred embodiment of a gaming system.Fig. 2 schematically illustrates the system architecture of a gaming machine.Fig. 3 schematically illustrates a flow diagram for initialising a game.Fig. 4 shows a detail ofFig. 3 regarding the amendment of the game.Fig. 5 shows the content of the database which stores the activities of the user. -
Fig. 1 schematically shows a preferred example of the invention comprising a server 1 with adatabase 11 and a plurality ofgaming machines 2. The server 1 and thegaming machines 2 are connected via acomputer network 6, wherein the server 1 comprises anetwork interface 12 and each of thegaming machines 2 comprises anetwork interface 23. Each of thegaming machines 2, which are connected to the server 1 via thenetwork 6 comprises a gaming processor 20 (Fig. 2 ) and gaming peripherals. Each of thegaming machines 2 comprises adisplay 27 and acashoutbutton 26. Thefirst gaming machine 2, which is shown on the left side ofFig. 1 comprises asingle joystick 28, thesecond gaming machine 2, which is schematically shown in the middle ofFig. 1 comprises akeyboard 29 and thethird gaming machine 2, which is shown on the right side ofFig. 1 comprises twojoysticks 28. Each of thegaming machines 2 further comprises aticket reader 21 and aticket printer 22 for reading andprinting tickets 3, 5. -
Fig. 2 schematically shows agaming machine 2 ofFig. 1 in more detail. Thegaming machine 2 shown inFig. 2 comprises agaming processor 20, on which a computer program for executing software implementing the respective game on thegaming machine 2 is run. Thegaming processor 20 is connected with theperipherals gaming machine 2. In this preferred embodiment of agaming machine 2 thegaming processor 20 is connected to thecomputer network 6 vianetwork interface 23. Thegaming processor 20 is connected to a cash outbutton 26, adisplay 27, akeyboard 29 and to aticket reader 21 and aticket printer 22. With theticket reader 21 and theticket printer 22 of this embodiment of the invention it is possible to read intickets 3, 5 andprint tickets 3, 5 with the same device. This device comprises only one slot, into which aticket 3, 5 can be inserted and by which a printedticket 3, 5 can be provided. - Each of the
gaming machines 2 of this preferred embodiment of the invention is programmed to read cash tickets 5 via theticket reader 21 and to print cash tickets 5 via theticket printer 22. A cash ticket 5 may be handed to the user after the payment of a defined amount of cash. Before the start of the game the cash ticket 5 is inserted into theticket reader 21. If the amount of cash stored in the cash information 51 is sufficient, thegaming processor 20 starts the game. After the game the cash information 51 stored on the cash ticket 5 is changed according to the results of the game. If for example the user wins a game the amount of cash, which is stored on the cash ticket 5 is increased. If however the user loses the game a certain amount of the cash is subtracted from the initial cash information 51. At the end of the game a cash ticket 5 is printed and provided to the user, wherein theticket printer 22 prints a new cash ticket 5 on which the changed cash information 51 is printed. - In order to be able to track the activity of a user of the
gaming machine 2 each of thegaming machines 2 is connected to the server 1. The server 1 comprises adatabase 11, whose contents are shown inFig. 5 . Thedatabase 11 provides arespective record 13 for each of the users, wherein each record 13 is uniquely assigned to one of the users of thegaming machine 2. When entering the Casino or before starting to play an account number 31 is assigned to the user. The user is provided with atracking ticket 3, on which a respective code for the account number 31 is printed. When providing atracking ticket 3 with an account number 31 to the user arecord 13 of thedatabase 11 is created. The account number 31 is assigned to therecord 13 as key value. Therefore therespective record 13, which is assigned to the user can be accessed via the account number 31 stored on thetracking ticket 3 of the user. Before the user starts to play on one of thegaming machines 2 therecord 13 assigned to the user is empty. - Before starting a game on the
gaming machine 2 the user is invited to provide histracking ticket 3 to thegaming machine 2. The user inserts thetracking ticket 3 into the slot of theticket reader 21, which reads the information printed on thetracking ticket 3 and determines the account number 31 stored on thetracking ticket 3. After reading thetracking ticket 3 thegaming machine 2 invites the user to provide a cash ticket 5 and to start the game. Optionally, instead of the cash ticket 5, bills and/or coins may be provided via abill acceptor 61 and/orcoin acceptor 62 of thegaming machine 2 to start the game. -
Fig. 3 shows a diagram that illustrates the initialization of a game. In a first step 100 atracking ticket 3 provided by the user is read by theticket reader 21. The account number 31 of thetracking ticket 3 is provided to thegaming processor 20. In asecond step 110 thegaming processor 20 determines whether theticket 3, 5 provided by the user is a cash ticket 5 or atracking ticket 3. If theticket 3, 5 provided by the user is a cash ticket 5 a game is started (step 140). If, however, theticket 3, 5 provided by the user is not a cash ticket 5 then thegaming processor 20 determines whether theticket 3, 5 provided by the user is a tracking ticket 3 (step 120). If theticket 3, 5 provided by the user is neither a cash ticket 5 nor atracking ticket 3 the user is invited to provide afurther ticket 3, 5. If, however, theticket 3, 5 provided by the user is atracking ticket 3, then aninitialization step 130 for altering the game is carried out. After thisinitialization step 130 the game is stored respectively ready for operation. - In
Fig. 4 a preferred method for the initialization the game in a way more favourable to the user is shown. In afirst initialization step 131 the account number 31, which is stored on thetracking ticket 3 is extracted. In asecond step 132 thegaming processor 20 sends aquery 7 to the server 1 wherein thequery 7 comprises the account number 31 stored on thetracking ticket 3. Thequery 7 is sent by thegaming processor 20 via thenetwork interface 23, thecomputer network 6 and thenetwork interface 12 of the server 1 to the server 1. - In a
further step 133 the server 1 processes thequery 7 and identifies therecord 13, which is assigned to the account number 31 of thequery 7. The server 1 sends therecord 13, which is assigned to the account number 31 to thegaming machine 2 via thecomputer network 6. - The gaming processor subsequently receives (step 134) and analyses the
record 13. - If the total number of the entries or the number of previously paid games or the gaming time exceeds a predefined threshold value, in this preferred example a threshold value of the games, or 25 minutes, or a loss of a certain amount of money is used, the game provided by the
gaming controller 12 is initialized in a more favourable way to the user. In aninitialization step 135 of this very example of the invention additional bonus and/or free games are provided to be played by the user - After amending the game in the
initialization step 135, the game is started (step 140). After the end of the game thegaming processor 20 generates a data packet 4, which comprises the account number of thetracking ticket 3 as well as further gaming information, namely anidentification number 42 of the gaming machine, atime stamp 43 and information of theresults 44 of the game. In this example of the invention theresults 44 of the game indicate the amount of cash the user won or lost during the game. The packet 4 is sent to the server 1 as an update request. When the server 1 obtains the data packet 4 the update request stored on that data packet is inserted into therecord 13 of the user. -
Fig. 5 shows the contents of the database 1, wherein four users are registered to the system and user is provided with a trackingrespective ticket 3, each with different account numbers. The first user was provided a ticket on which the account number "151" was stored. At 17:27 the first user lost EUR 30,- on a gaming apparatus with an identification number "15", on at 19:30 the same user won EUR 5,- a gaming apparatus with the identification number "17". - In order to avoid manipulations of the
tracking tickets 3 theticket printer 22 comprises a decryption module, so that an encrypted code corresponding to the account number 31 is printed on thetracking ticket 3. The account number 31 is encrypted before being printed on thetracking ticket 3. Theticket reader 21 comprises a decryption module, which decrypts the code printed on theticket 3 and determines the account number 31 accordingly. As a separate measure or in addition the operation of thegaming machine 2 may be such that the sequence of receiving thetracking ticket 3 and issuing anew tracking ticket 3 shall be strictly adhered to. That is to say that in case if the account number 31 has been recognized by the gaming system then this account number 31 is locked until the regularnew tracking ticket 3 is issued following the end of game play. Optionally, in case if the account number 31 is in the locked state then the gaming system may generate an alarm message, for instance to the system operator, in the case if an identical account number 31 is being recognised within the gaming system. - In this preferred example of the invention the
gaming apparatus 2 of the gaming system comprises aticket printer 22, which is provided to erase and reprinttickets 3, 5. Atracking ticket 3 or cash ticket 5 which is provided to thegaming machine 2 by the user is read by theticket reader 21 and afterwards erased by theticket printer 22. After the end of the game thetracking ticket 3 is reprinted and provided to the user. A further embodiment (not shown in detail in the Fig.) of the invention usesreprintable tickets 3, 5. Again, a common unit may be used, providing the functionality of thereader 21 and theprinter 22. In this regard, reference is made to U.S. patentU.S. 5854477 , the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference. - The paper/ticket may be coated with a UV light-sensitive chemical substance such that information can be deleted on the paper by irradiation with ultraviolet light. Alternatively, the paper may be coated with thermally sensitive substances.
- Such thermal printing papers have covered on it, for example, in an unactivated state colorless dye, known leuco dye, and a developer. The developer provides an activation of the dyes. The application of heat melts and merges these materials, i.e. their molecules bind together in a chemical reaction. Leuco dyes that have reacted with the developer may produce such as black, blue and other colours. By separating back the coloured leuco dye and developer the colours are "deleted", i.e. so that the displayed information is lost.
- Staining and de-colouring are caused by differences in the effect of temperature on the materials. The materials (leuco dyes, developer) melt at higher temperature T1 (for example, 160° C) and subsequent quenching. Decolouration occurs if the paper is again heated, but to a slightly lower temperature T2. The use of a thermal print head enables the selective use of temperature fields in which colour is desired, for example, to produce text. Use of a heating roller to the entire sheet makes it is possible to delete the text completely. The process of printing and deleting may be carried out several/many times. Alternatively, it is further possible, as disclosed in
JP 2000154345 A - Even if it is possible to connect personal information of the user, such as name, address, credit card number, telephone number etc. with the account number 31 of the user, the preferred example of the invention avoids linking or connecting such a data in order to maintain the privacy of the user. One or
more records 13 exclusively contain the account number 31 and information relating to the games. Personal information is prohibited to be stored on thoserecords 13. - After a predefined time limit of for example five days as from its creation a
record 13 is invalidated andfurther gaming information 41, preferably the identification number of the gaming machine 2 a time stamp orinformation 44 on the results of the game, are prohibited from storage. Alternatively the time limit for storing data to an account may be determined as from the time when the last data were stored to therecord 13. Atracking ticket 3 becomes therefore invalid after a time limit of non-use. - A
tracking ticket 3 may be initially issued to the user (patron) at a register desk or self-register desk. Such a register desk may comprise a ticket printer and a data connection to the server 1 anddatabase 11.
Claims (14)
- A method for tracking the activity of a user of a gaming machine (2), said gaming machine being connected to a server (1) with a database (11)- wherein an account number (31) is assigned to a user and a tracking ticket (3) is created for said user, wherein on the tracking ticket (3) a respective code for the account number (31) is printed and provided to the user, and wherein a record (13) of said database (11) is created, the account number (31) being assigned to the record (13) as a key value,- wherein before a game is started on a gaming machine (2) a connection to the server (1) is established and the tracking ticket (3) is read by the gaming machine (2), and at the end of the game the said tracking ticket (3) or a further tracking ticket (3), on which a code encoding the account number (31) is printed, is provided to the user, and- wherein before or after or during the game a data packet (4) comprising the account number (31; 40) of the ticket (3) as well as further gaming information (41), preferably an identification number (42) of the gaming machine (2), and/or a time stamp (43), and/or information (44) on the results of the game, is provided to the server (1) and stored to the record (13) having the same account number (31; 40) as the packet (4).
- A method according to claim 1, wherein an account number is invalidated after a predefined time limit, preferably a time limit between one and ten days, as from the creation of the record (13) or as from the time, when last data were stored in the record (13) and assigned to the account number (31).
- A method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein a further cash ticket (5), on which cash information (51) is printed and encoded, is fed to the gaming machine (2) and read by the gaming machine (2) before the beginning of the game,- wherein the cash information (51) is amended, preferably reduced, according to the results of the game,- wherein at the end of the game, preferably before printing the tracking ticket (3), the cash ticket (5) is printed and provided to the user, and- wherein the tracking ticket (3) and the cash ticket (5) are printed by the ticket printer (22) of the gaming machine (2) and/or are read by the ticket reader (21) of the gaming machine (2).
- A method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein before starting the game or during the game the record (13) or parts of the record (13), whose key equals the account number (31) of the tracking ticket (3), is or are sent to the gaming machine (2), wherein the gaming program of the gaming machine (2) is modified according to said record (13).
- A method according to claim 4, wherein a bonus game or a more favourable initialization of the game is offered to the user, if the total number of entries (32) or an aggregation, preferably a sum, of entries (32) of the record (13), such as the number of previously played games or the gaming time, exceeds a predefined threshold value.
- A method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein a code corresponding to the account number (31) is printed on the tracking ticket (3), and wherein said account number (31) is preferably encrypted before encoding and printing, and/or
wherein an erasable and re-printable tracking ticket (3) is provided to the user, wherein the ticket (3) is erased after reading by the gaming machine (2) and re-printed before it is provided to the user, and/or
wherein the one or more records (13) exclusively contain the account number (31) and information relating to the games, wherein preferably personal information is prohibited to be stored on said records (13). - A gaming system for tracking the activity of a user of a gaming machine (2), the system comprising a gaming server (1), and a plurality of gaming machines (2), the gaming server (1) and the gaming machines (2) being connected via a network (6),- wherein the gaming server (1) provides a database (11) to store a plurality of records (13), each record having an account number (31) as a key value,- wherein each of the gaming machines (2) comprises a gaming processor (20)- wherein each of the gaming machines (2) comprises a ticket reader (21) and a ticket printer (22), and a network interface (23) for providing a data connection to the database (11) of the server (1),- wherein the account number (31) is assigned to a user and a tracking ticket (3) is created for said user, wherein on the tracking ticket (3) a respective code for the account number (31) is printed and provided to the user,- wherein before or after or during the game the gaming processor (20) generates a data packet (4) comprising the account number (31; 40) of the tracking ticket (3) as well as further gaming information, preferably an identification number (42) of the gaming machine (2), and/or a time stamp (43), and/or information (44) on the results of the game, and- wherein after generating said data packet (4), the gaming processor (20) sends said data packet to the server (1) and forces the server (1) to store the packet (4) with the record having the same account number (31; 40) as the packet (4).
- A system according to claim 7, wherein the server (1) comprises an invalidation unit (12) which invalidates records (13) of the database (11) after a predefined time limit, preferably from one to ten days, as from the creation of the record (13) or as from storing the last data in said record (13).
- A system according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the ticket reader (21) is prepared to read a cash ticket (5) on which cash information (11) is printed and encoded, and wherein before, during or after the game the gaming processor (20) amends the cash information (51, 52) according to the results of the game and forces the ticket printer (22) to print a new cash ticket (50) on which the amended cash information (52) is printed and encoded, so that the ticket (3; 3') and the cash ticket (5; 50) are printed by the same printer (22) and/or are read by the same ticket reader (21).
- A system according to any of claims 7 to 9, wherein on receiving a query on an account number (31) of a gaming machine (2), the server (1) provides the record (13) having said account number (31) to the respective gaming machine (2).
- A system according to claim 10, wherein after reading a tracking ticket (3) the gaming processor (20) of a gaming machine (2) sends a query regarding the account number (31) of the ticket to the server (1) and receives the record (13) stored in the database (11) having said account number (31),
wherein the gaming processor (20) compares the total number of entries (32) of the record (13) or an aggregation, preferably a sum, of entries (32) of the record (13), such as the number of previously played games or the gaming time, with a threshold value and determines, if said predefined threshold value is exceeded, and- wherein the gaming processor (20) is programmed to offer the user a bonus game or a more favourable initialization of the game, if said threshold is exceeded. - A system according to any of the claims 7 to 11, wherein- the gaming processor (20) and/or the ticket printer (22) is programmed to encode, and preferably to encrypt, the account number (31) before printing, and/or- wherein the gaming processor (20) and/or the ticket reader (21) is programmed to decode, and preferably to decrypt, the account number (31) printed on the tracking ticket (3) before reading.
- A system according to any of the claims 7 to 12, wherein the ticket printer (22) is provided to erase and re-print tickets (3, 5) and provide tickets (3, 5) to the user, the ticket printer (22) erasing and reprinting the tracking ticket (3) after being read by the ticket reader (21) and/or- wherein the one or more records (13) are provided to exclusively contain the account number and information relating to the games, and/or wherein said records (13) do not comprise any personal information on the user.
- A computer program product directly loadable into the internal memory of a digital computer, comprising software for performing the steps of any of the claims 1 to 6, when the product is run on a computer, preferably on gaming machine or a server connected to a plurality of gaming machines via a network.
Priority Applications (21)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
EP12179616.3A EP2696330A1 (en) | 2012-08-08 | 2012-08-08 | Method for activity tracking |
RU2015105161A RU2635856C2 (en) | 2012-08-08 | 2013-08-05 | Method and system for tracking game activity |
MX2015001643A MX357237B (en) | 2012-08-08 | 2013-08-05 | Method of and system for tracking gaming activity. |
BR112015002673A BR112015002673A2 (en) | 2012-08-08 | 2013-08-05 | a method for enabling tracking of a game machine user's activity, a gaming system for tracking the activity of a gaming machine user, and computer program product downloadable in the electronic memory of a digital gaming machine computer. games |
PE2015000109A PE20150549A1 (en) | 2012-08-08 | 2013-08-05 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR MONITORING A GAMING ACTIVITY |
US14/420,354 US20150206394A1 (en) | 2012-08-08 | 2013-08-05 | Method of and system for tracking gaming activity |
AU2013301599A AU2013301599B2 (en) | 2012-08-08 | 2013-08-05 | Method of and system for tracking gaming activity |
SG10201700594WA SG10201700594WA (en) | 2012-08-08 | 2013-08-05 | Method of and system for tracking gaming activity |
CA2878996A CA2878996C (en) | 2012-08-08 | 2013-08-05 | Method of and system for tracking gaming activity |
EP13747825.1A EP2883220A1 (en) | 2012-08-08 | 2013-08-05 | Method of and system for tracking gaming activity |
PCT/EP2013/066403 WO2014023696A1 (en) | 2012-08-08 | 2013-08-05 | Method of and system for tracking gaming activity |
CN201380042155.5A CN104520910B (en) | 2012-08-08 | 2013-08-05 | Method and system for tracking ludic activity |
SG11201500291TA SG11201500291TA (en) | 2012-08-08 | 2013-08-05 | Method of and system for tracking gaming activity |
ZA2015/00634A ZA201500634B (en) | 2012-08-08 | 2015-01-28 | Method of and system for tracking gaming activity |
NI201500009A NI201500009A (en) | 2012-08-08 | 2015-02-02 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR MONITORING A GAME ACTIVITY. |
PH12015500232A PH12015500232A1 (en) | 2012-08-08 | 2015-02-02 | Method of and system tracking gaming activity |
CL2015000257A CL2015000257A1 (en) | 2012-08-08 | 2015-02-03 | Method for monitoring the activity of a user in a gaming machine, which includes providing a gaming machine, providing a server with a database, assigning an account number to a user, printing a tracking ticket, creating a record in said database, determining whether Ticket is a box ticket or tracking ticket, if a tracking ticket has been determined, provide the server with a data package that includes an account number, store data in the registry; system; Program |
CO15045745A CO7210302A2 (en) | 2012-08-08 | 2015-02-27 | Method and system for tracking a game activity |
HK15104805.0A HK1204383A1 (en) | 2012-08-08 | 2015-05-20 | Method of and system for tracking gaming activity |
AU2018200229A AU2018200229B2 (en) | 2012-08-08 | 2018-01-11 | Method of and system for tracking gaming activity |
US16/662,963 US20200058192A1 (en) | 2012-08-08 | 2019-10-24 | Method of and system for tracking gaming activity |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
EP12179616.3A EP2696330A1 (en) | 2012-08-08 | 2012-08-08 | Method for activity tracking |
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EP2696330A1 true EP2696330A1 (en) | 2014-02-12 |
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Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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EP12179616.3A Ceased EP2696330A1 (en) | 2012-08-08 | 2012-08-08 | Method for activity tracking |
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EP (1) | EP2696330A1 (en) |
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US5854477A (en) | 1996-06-07 | 1998-12-29 | Oki Electric Industry Co., Ltd. | Reusable ticket processing apparatus and ticket regenerating apparatus |
JP2000154345A (en) | 1998-09-16 | 2000-06-06 | Toshiba Corp | Erasable printing ink |
WO2007064327A1 (en) * | 2005-12-02 | 2007-06-07 | Walker Digital, Llc | Gaming systems and apparatus for detecting a signal indicative of a problem gambler and dispatching an event in response thereto |
-
2012
- 2012-08-08 EP EP12179616.3A patent/EP2696330A1/en not_active Ceased
Patent Citations (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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US5854477A (en) | 1996-06-07 | 1998-12-29 | Oki Electric Industry Co., Ltd. | Reusable ticket processing apparatus and ticket regenerating apparatus |
JP2000154345A (en) | 1998-09-16 | 2000-06-06 | Toshiba Corp | Erasable printing ink |
WO2007064327A1 (en) * | 2005-12-02 | 2007-06-07 | Walker Digital, Llc | Gaming systems and apparatus for detecting a signal indicative of a problem gambler and dispatching an event in response thereto |
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