WO2000022585A2 - Article identifiable et poursuivable automatiquement, systeme interagissant avec cet article - Google Patents

Article identifiable et poursuivable automatiquement, systeme interagissant avec cet article Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2000022585A2
WO2000022585A2 PCT/US1999/023778 US9923778W WO0022585A2 WO 2000022585 A2 WO2000022585 A2 WO 2000022585A2 US 9923778 W US9923778 W US 9923778W WO 0022585 A2 WO0022585 A2 WO 0022585A2
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
player
card
sensors
gaming
central processor
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US1999/023778
Other languages
English (en)
Other versions
WO2000022585A3 (fr
Inventor
Jake Ganz
William R. Bradshaw
Kingsley L. Smith
Howard Schutzbank
John Mann
Original Assignee
Jake Ganz
Bradshaw William R
Smith Kingsley L
Howard Schutzbank
John Mann
Priority date (The priority date 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 date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Jake Ganz, Bradshaw William R, Smith Kingsley L, Howard Schutzbank, John Mann filed Critical Jake Ganz
Priority to AU11113/00A priority Critical patent/AU1111300A/en
Publication of WO2000022585A2 publication Critical patent/WO2000022585A2/fr
Publication of WO2000022585A3 publication Critical patent/WO2000022585A3/fr

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Classifications

    • 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
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07F—COIN-FREED OR LIKE APPARATUS
    • G07F1/00—Coin inlet arrangements; Coins specially adapted to operate coin-freed mechanisms
    • G07F1/06—Coins specially adapted to operate coin-freed mechanisms
    • 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

Definitions

  • This invention relates to automatic identification and tracking of items using radio frequency signals. More particularly, this invention relates to gaming tokens and a system for interacting with said tokens for authentication and monitoring purposes.
  • Automatic identification systems are widely used to input data into computer systems and to identify and monitor articles or personnel.
  • line-of-sight type systems use a scanning device such as a laser to read braced symbols which carry information about an article to which the braced symbol is attached (e.g. price, stock number or the like) .
  • Another type of system uses magnetic encoding of information.
  • the encoded information is contained on magnetic medium which is attached to the article (e.g. a credit card, automatic teller machine (ATM) card or the like) .
  • ATM automatic teller machine
  • Radio frequency based identification systems are often used in applications where identification of an object is to be made without contact and where the application may not permit line-of-sight communication between the object and a sensor.
  • Radio frequency automatic identification (“RF/ID”) systems are based on "targets" which generally function as transponders . Upon receipt of a radio frequency interrogating signal, the target responds by producing a detectable radio frequency response signal. Such targets have taken the form of tags or labels which are affixed to an object to be identified.
  • a “target” is any radio frequency responsive means which may be attached to, printed upon, embedded in, or otherwise associated with an object to be identified.
  • radio frequency is used herein because that is the region of the electromagnetic spectrum which is most frequently used for such automatic identification, it will be understood that any suitable electromagnetic radiation may be used dependent upon the application.
  • Radio frequency based automatic identification systems are used or contemplated for use in a wide variety of applications for monitoring people, animals, locations, and articles. Such applications include automatic storage and retrieval; baggage sorting and tracking; identification of persons, such as for facility access control or patient tracking; and identification of animals, such as for automatic feeding.
  • One major limitation of presently available RF/ID systems is that target cost is substantial.
  • Another limitation which restricts use of present RF/ID systems is target size. Targets are typically several inches long, which inhibits their use where small items are to be identified or where it is desired that the target be unobtrusive. Under such conditions, target cost and application can only be justified where the target can be removed and reused and where discretion or secrecy is not essential. For example, one particular application where such limited devices may be useful is in the retail garment industry.
  • targets typically contain an antenna for receiving an interrogating RF signal; radio frequency processing means (e.g. integrated circuits) for determining whether an interrogating signal has been received; in some instances a power source such as a battery which increases size and cost of the target; and radio frequency transmitting means responsive to the processing means for transmitting a detectable RF response signal from the target.
  • radio frequency processing means e.g. integrated circuits
  • a power source such as a battery which increases size and cost of the target
  • radio frequency transmitting means responsive to the processing means for transmitting a detectable RF response signal from the target.
  • gaming tokens such as those used in casinos and similar types of gaming establishments .
  • These tokens or chips are kept in a casino vault, are passed between one or more cashier's cages and used as a form of currency within the casino.
  • these chips are a valuable commodity that are subject to theft, counterfeiting and the like.
  • a casino employee may steal chips stored in the vault for personal use or for black market sale to unscrupulous players . Chips may similarly be stolen by employees in a cashier's cage, or at one or more gaming tables. Another common occurrence is a so-called
  • the device should not be unduly bulky, expensive to manufacture or operate and should be passive in nature so as to not disturb players from their gaming routines or habits or alert those attempting to thwart or otherwise misuse the device.
  • the system should be able to identify a plurality of the devices individually (by for example serial number), track and record players' gaming routines based on movement of the devices and introductory information provided by the players .
  • the disadvantages associated with the prior art are overcome by system and method of using said system in a casino-based environment to obtain information and identify player behavior and gaming token movement .
  • the system comprises one or more gaming tables, a plurality of article identification sensors disposed within the gaming tables, a central processor connected to the sensors and a plurality of trackable articles disposed about the gaming tables.
  • the trackable articles are such that they are capable of being detected by sensors and the central processor generates an historical profile and reward information of a player based upon movement of said trackable articles.
  • the trackable articles further comprise one or more resonators .
  • the resonators are fabricated from electromagnetic energy reflecting particles. The resonators are capable of reflecting energy in the radio frequency range and preferably in the Gigahertz range .
  • the gaming tables have means for identifying a player. These means may be a player identification card inserted into a player card reader that is connected to the central processor.
  • the system also has means for determining the status of a gaming being played at one of said gaming tables.
  • the means may be one or more card sensors disposed within gaming tables .
  • the system is so configured and a method for using the system is provided that the card sensors are connected to said central processor so that upon start of play of a game, a wagered amount, in the form of one or more trackable articles (i.e., casino chips) is identified and entered into the central processor. Then, cards are dealt to one or more players having entered a wagered amount and the cards activate the card sensors to detect start of play. At the conclusion of play, the cards are collected thus deactivating the card sensors. Instructions are then sent to the central processor to record information regarding the wagered amounts into said historical profile and award points to players meeting specified or prearrange criteria such as total dollars wagered, total time spent gaming and the like.
  • a wagered amount in the form of one or more trackable articles (i.e., casino chips) is identified and entered into the central processor. Then, cards are dealt to one or more players having entered a wagered amount and the cards activate the card sensors to detect start of play. At the conclusion of play, the cards are collected thus deactivating the card sensors. Instructions are
  • the method for collecting information regarding and granting awards to a casino player via an automatic identification system comprises the steps of: a. recognizing said player via an automatic identification means; b. identifying a wagered amount by said player; c. locking said wagered amount into said system; d. allowing for play of said wagered amount; e. updating said system with the wagered amount; f . optionally awarding said player and g. updating said automatic identification means with wagered amount and award.
  • Step b. emits an RF signal from a sensor and receives a reflected signal at the sensor. The reflected signal emanates from one or more casino chips disposed above said sensor.
  • the Step a is recognizing said player via an automatic identification means; b. identifying a wagered amount by said player; c. locking said wagered amount into said system; d. allowing for play of said wagered amount; e. updating said system with the wagered amount; f . optionally awarding said player and g. updating said automatic identification means with wagered amount and
  • Step c. can include activating at least two player card sensors or one player card sensor and one dealer card sensor disposed in a gaming table whereby the activated sensors instruct a central processor to lock in wagered amounts.
  • Step d. can include deactivating all sensors activated in Step c. which then instructs the central processor to update information in a player profile regarding wagered amounts.
  • Step e. can include assessing the player profile and previous wager to determine an award value to be granted to the player .
  • FIG. 1A is a perspective view of an article in accordance with the subject invention
  • FIG. IB is a second embodiment of the article of the subject invention.
  • FIG. 2 is a block diagram generally illustrating the elements of a system for interacting with said article
  • FIG. 3 is a partial plan, partial block diagram of an automated rating system of the subject invention
  • FIG. 4 is a detailed view of a first display panel of the automated rating system of the subject invention
  • FIG. 5 is a detailed view of a second display panel of the automated rating system of the subject invention
  • FIG. 6 is a detailed view of a player identification means of the automated rating system of the subject invention.
  • FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a chip identification sensor incorporated into the automated rating system
  • FIG. 8 is a flow chart of a method of using the automated rating system.
  • FIG. 9 depicts the use of one or more player ID cards for single player, multi-player and single player at multi locations scenarios in the subject invention.
  • the present invention provides automatic item identification of information containing components in a manner which, like existing RF/ID systems, can be free from the constraints of line-of-sight detection imposed by braced symbol systems and short range detection imposed by magnetic encoding systems.
  • the present invention comprises inexpensive targets which may be of small size and/or large information density.
  • a system for interacting with the targets associated with the present invention is operable in an unobtrusive manner and is capable of identifying the targets and collecting historical data based on target movement within said system.
  • the information-containing components of the invention may be fashioned into targets which are easily applied to a wide variety of items to be identified. Such items may be reliably serialized and subsequently identified using versatile, low-cost interrogating systems.
  • FIG. 1. is a perspective view of a particular type of target 100 of the subject invention.
  • the target 100 is a token or gaming chip used as a form of currency in a casino or other similar gaming establishment.
  • the chip 100 has a body 102 that is generally similar in shape and size to those chips currently in existence and used in casinos (i.e., approximately 1.6in. in diameter and approximately l/8in. thick) . It will be understood that although not every casino may have identically sized chips, the target of the present invention will match the dimensions, color scheme and/or the general physical characteristics of the chips currently in use by a particular casino. In this way the superior identification and tracking features of the chips will not be detected by those individuals of an unscrupulous or unlawful nature .
  • the chips can, of course, be of any size, shape and color scheme desired by the gaming establishment so as to suit their needs for conducting business, providing esthetic value, advertising and the like.
  • resonators 104 Disposed within the body 102 of the chip 100 are one or more resonators 104 (shown in phantom to denote subsurface placement).
  • the resonators 104 also known as TaggentsTM, are microscopic particles that are capable of reflecting electromagnetic energy.
  • TaggentsTM is a trademark of Inkode,
  • the resonators 104 comprise a piece of solid material having dimensions, electromagnetic properties, and/or mechanical properties rendering them resonant at radio frequency. Although depicted as line segments representing thin dipoles, it will be understood that the resonators 104 may have a large variety of shapes having suitable radio frequency response characteristics. The design, fabrication and use of such resonators is discussed in U.S. Patent No. 5,581,257 issued December 3, 1996 to Greene et al . and is herein incorporated by reference .
  • the chip 100 depicted in FIG. 1 can be a disk-like object formed by extrusion, die stamping or other suitable methods for forming such objects from a suitable raw material (i.e., ceramic or plastic) .
  • a suitable raw material i.e., ceramic or plastic
  • one or more resonators 104 are introduced into the raw material so that the resonators are intimately intermingled with the raw material .
  • the resonators 104 will function as thin dipoles embedded in the chip 100.
  • the resonator 104 or TaggentsTM are grouped onto a medium
  • the medium 106 (i.e., a piece of 24 lb. grade paper) .
  • the medium 106 is then incorporated into the chip 100 during the manufacturing process of said chip 100.
  • the above-discussed resonator technology is low-cost as well as environmentally-friendly. As such, these new chips can be manufactured at little or no additional cost and eventual disposal of these new chips is of no greater concern than existing chips to a gaming establishment.
  • the resonators 104 can be arranged to form a specific pattern, graphic or otherwise identifying mark 108 that generates a particular identification signal when subjected to an interrogating signal.
  • the identifying mark can duplicate bar codes, be an alphanumeric representation that can be seen on a display device or any predetermined sequence of symbols that are part of a specific coding system (i.e., a unique code for every chip to allow for serializing or a proprietary identification code of a $5 chip in a specific casino) .
  • Both embodiments reveal an identification symbol, marking or the like that is integrated into the structure of the chip 100. As such, the chip (or similarly enhanced article) and the information contained therein is extremely tamper-resistant and durable.
  • the resonators 104 do not require a power source; therefore, they can be effectively incorporated into a chip (or similar enhanced article) without their presence being detected.
  • the resonators 104 may be resonant at several frequencies and may be arranged so that several such frequencies are used to provide identification information in the target 100. Regardless of the specific arrangement or structure, the resonators are configured so that they resonate at least at one resonant frequency which is an information-carrying frequency identifiable to a system within which the chip 100 is used and interacts.
  • FIG. 2 depicts the chip 100 interacting with system 200 that is capable of identifying and evaluating information provided in the chip 100 by the resonators 104.
  • a block diagram of the system 200 reveals a transmitter 220 that is capable of generating and broadcasting interrogating signals 210 in the radio frequency or other similar band.
  • the interrogating signals 210 strike the resonators 104 and reflect a specific radiation pattern as an identification signal 240.
  • the identification signal 240 is detected by a receiver 230 which is capable of processing the identification signal 240 and providing it to a computer or other identification processing system (not shown) via output 250.
  • the transmitter 220 generates an interrogating signal in the RF (radio-frequency) range and additionally in the range of approximately 100-500 Gigahertz and preferably 10 GHz (10 9 Hz) and the resonators 104 reflect low level energy (i.e. in the microwatt 10 "6 W range) that is detected by the receiver 230.
  • RF radio-frequency
  • the resonators 104 reflect low level energy (i.e. in the microwatt 10 "6 W range) that is detected by the receiver 230.
  • These operational frequencies allow for scanning and identifying of targets at close range, but without line-of- sight or physical contact constraints. That is, scanning range can be in the range of approximately 2-3 feet dependent upon exact operating frequency, distances between the target 100 and system 200 and local interference. The ability to identify, monitor and track individual chips is extremely useful .
  • the unique code or identification information for each chip is a non-repeating symbol such as a serial number. That is, each chip is assigned a specific number as part of a series of numbers that are incorporated into the system 200 to identify the chips as valid for use. As such, it becomes increasingly simple to monitor player gaming habits. For example, a player starts his game by requesting $100 in $5 chips. The gaming table operator (i.e., blackjack dealer or the like) exchanges recognized currency (i.e., a US Treasury issued $100 bill) for twenty (20) $5 casino chips.
  • recognized currency i.e., a US Treasury issued $100 bill
  • the chips are identified by the system 200 by their serial numbers. As the player places bets, the system updates the movement of each serialized chip (into the dealer's tray or "bank" when the player loses or out of the bank when the player wins) .
  • the use of the gaming chips in accordance with the present invention in the systems described provide for improved tracking and identification of casino based currency. Such improvements reduce illegal activity associated with such currency and increase the ability of the casino to reward frequent and/or large quantity players properly.
  • FIG. 3 broadly depicts an improved system 300 for use in a gaming establishment.
  • the system 300 is an automated rating system that is used in conjunction with the resonator-enhanced chips 100 to enable casino management to more accurately track player habits and chip movement. More specifically, the rating system 300 comprises one or more gaming tables 302 configured with a plurality of player locations 306. Each player location 306 is outfitted with means for identifying a player (e.g., a card reader 308), means for determining the status of a particular game (e.g., a card sensor or photocell 310) and means for recording a player's bet (e.g., a chip identification sensor 312).
  • the system 300 further comprises additional means for determining the status of a particular game (e.g.
  • Each of said gaming tables 302 is tied into a main casino computer 304 for the purposes of among other things, tracking chip movement, updating player histories, rating players for "comps" and identifying chips.
  • the main casino computer 304 includes a processor unit 314, a memory 316, a mass storage device 318, an input control unit 320, and a display unit 322 which are all coupled to a control unit bus 324.
  • the gaming table 302 further comprises the necessary components to play the desired game.
  • a Blackjack table is shown.
  • said Blackjack table contains the necessary components to play such game which includes a shoe 330 for dispensing cards to one or more player locations 306, a discard rack 332 for collecting used cards during a play of a hand of Blackjack, a drop paddle 334 for conveying U.S. treasury issue currency (i.e. a $50 bill) into a drop box (not shown) below the table 302.
  • each of said gaming tables further comprises a bankroll chip rack 336 which contains casino currency (i.e., chips 100) which are conveyed to players or collected from players based on the outcome of a particular hand.
  • system 300 is depicted and described in specific terms of a Blackjack gaming table and for use of in the game of Blackjack, this does not preclude the use of such system 300 in other types of casino games other than Blackjack which include but are not limited to Roulette, Pai-Gow, Let It Ride, Baccarat, the Big Wheel and the like. It is suggested that one skilled in the art of development and construction of gaming tables would have the necessary skill to incorporate card readers 308 and sensors 310 for players and sensors 326 and readers 328 for dealers to be able to connect the main casino computer 304 into any type of game.
  • FIGS. 4 and 5 depict additional features of the system for displaying various types of information during gaming.
  • the dealer display panel 400 displays information regarding the number of players and their last bets wagered for a particular round of play of a particular game.
  • the display panel 400 is comprised of a player location column 402 and a wagering information column 404.
  • the player location column 402 contains a plurality of rows which correspond to a plurality of player locations 306 on the gaming table 302. In this way, each player is separately identified by their location number.
  • the wager information column 404 contains a plurality of rows corresponding to the rows displayed in the player location column 402, wherein each wager information column contains the wagered amount for each player. For example, and as shown in FIG.
  • a particular round of play consists of players at locations 1, 2, and 4.
  • the player at location #1 has bet $5.00
  • the player at location #2 has also bet $5.00
  • the player at location #4 has bet $10.00.
  • each of the aforesaid amounts appear next to the player location in the wagering information column 404.
  • Those player locations that are unoccupied during a particular round of play display no wager information on the display panel 400.
  • the wagering information is displayed during the entire round of play during a particular game. Such information is cleared from display upon the dealer taking the necessary steps to complete the particular round and prepare for a new round of play.
  • FIG. 5 depicts in greater detail the floor person display panel 500.
  • floor person display 500 displays more detailed information regarding specific players while they are engaged in rounds of play at a particular gaming table (i.e., gaming table 302).
  • the display panel 500 further comprises a player location column 502, a player identification column 504, a player account number column 506, a start time column 508, an accumulated points total column 510 and a comment column 512. These columns are exemplary in nature and the display 500 (or display 400) can be configured in any desirable manner to convey requested information.
  • the floor person display panel 500 further comprises a player information button 514 and a plurality of player print buttons 516. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, there is one player information button 514 and the plurality of player print buttons 516 that correspond to the plurality of player locations displayed on the floor person display panel 500 (i.e., seven) .
  • the floor person display panel 500 becomes active when a player activates a player location card reader 308 with his/her player ID card (shown in greater detail in FIG. 6) .
  • Information encoded on the player ID card includes a players name which is displayed in column 504 and players account number which appears in column 506.
  • the time at which the players inserts his/her ID card into the card reader 308 is displayed in the time start column 508 and the number of credits or points available to the players (i.e. points attained during players previous games or otherwise earned as part of a reward or "comp" scale) is displayed in column 510.
  • Column 512 is available for displaying information from the main casino computer 304 back to the floor person. Information such as a tampered player ID card or the like can be displayed in said comment column 512.
  • the panel will remain dark and no information is displayed.
  • information can be displayed by activating the player information button 514 which temporarily displays player name and other related information for quick viewing by the floor person.
  • the panel may then remain lit for a predetermined amount of time or can be turned off manually by activating the player information button 514 a second time.
  • Properly tracking the players and their win or loss amounts and generating rating cards for specific players is conducted via activation of one or more of the player print buttons 516.
  • a particular player i.e., player #2 depicted in FIG. 5
  • the floor person may choose to generate a rating card for this particular player in order to record such information for historical and statistical purposes .
  • a signal is passed to the main casino computer 304 which in turn generates and prints a report to a printer in proximity to the gaming table 302 where such player is playing.
  • FIG. 6 depicts card reader 308 in greater detail.
  • card reader 308 is disposed within a playing surface of the gaming table 302 and is further provided with a card slot 604.
  • a player ID card 602 containing biographical, historical and statistical gaming information of a player is encoded on the player ID card.
  • the card reader supporting circuitry not shown
  • Dealer card reader 328 is not shown in detail, but is understood to be of similar design and construction to player card readers 308.
  • dealer card readers 328 are also disposed within a playing surface of the gaming table 302 (usually one reader per table) and provided with a slot. The dealer will insert or remove his/her dealer ID card upon opening a table for a new gaming shift or when moving from one table to another.
  • the inserted dealer ID card inserted into a particular gaming table indicates to the main casino computer 304 that a new gaming session is about to start under the direction of that particular dealer. Removal of the dealer ID card indicates to the main casino computer 304 that a particular gaming session has ended.
  • FIG. 9 depicts the use of one or more player ID cards for single player, multi-player and single player at multi locations scenarios.
  • a single player prepares for gaming (a player approaching gaming location #5) he/she inserts a player ID card 602 into the slot 604 of the card reader of player location #5.
  • This encoded information on the player ID card is relayed to the main casino computer 304 and player location #5 is prepared to continue to receive historical gaming information about such player.
  • player location #5 is prepared to continue to receive historical gaming information about such player.
  • a single player were to play at a single location he/she would insert his ID card at location #1 and begin normal play. Should said player want to play at one or more additional locations (i.e. locations #2 and/or #3) one or more generic player cards 902 would be available from the dealer. Said generic player cards do not contain specific biographical or statistical information about the player at location #1.
  • the location containing the generic player card should be acknowledged as part of a specific player profile for example, the profile of the player at location #1.
  • the information accumulated at player locations #2 and #3 indicated by arrows 904 are incorporated into the information of player location #1 with all such information being relayed to the main casino computer 304. Unoccupied player locations (i.e., 4, 6 and 7) remain inert during a round of play and do not effect historical data or information collection to the main casino computer 304.
  • RF/ID card reader would have technology similar to that of the means for recording a player's bet (i.e., the chip identification sensor 312) .
  • a detailed description of a chip identification sensor 312 follows and it is suggested that one skilled in the art can readily incorporate similar sensors into the gaming table 302 to act as player or dealer ID card readers thereby eliminating the need for card slots.
  • Information provided by the player or dealer ID cards are encoded with the resonators 104 in a predetermined manner.
  • a player or dealer card placed within the sensing range of an appropriate player or dealer card sensor (308 or 328) activates that location and sends an appropriate signal to the main casino computer to either activate a specific player location (for an accepted player ID card) or the gaming table for a new gaming session (for an accepted dealer ID card) .
  • Fig. 7 depicts a cross-sectional view of a typical player location 306 at the gaming table 302.
  • the gaming table is comprised of a base layer 702 (preferably solid wood) .
  • an intermediate layer 704 preferably plywood
  • a finishing layer 706 preferably a resilient material such as a foam padding
  • a decorative layer 708 is disposed on top of the finishing layer 706.
  • the decorative layer 708 is preferably a gaming table cloth, i.e., for a Blackjack) that indicates specifics of the particular game being played at table 302 such as rules of the game, betting odds and the like, identification of player locations and the like.
  • chip identification sensor 312 is disposed within the base layer 302. Said means can be affixed by a variety of methods known to those skilled in the art such as threading, pressure fitting, adhesive means or the like.
  • An opening 710 is formed within a portion of the base member and most of the intermediate layer 704 so as to increase transmission efficiency of emissions provided by the chip identification sensor 312.
  • the chip identification sensor 312 is electrically connected to the main casino computer 304 (not shown in Fig. 7) via a transmission cable 712.
  • the decorative layer 708 contains a plurality of markings that identify player locations such as the one shown 306 upon which one or more gaming tokens or chips 100 can be disposed to indicate a wager.
  • the chip identification sensor 312 emits radiation towards the marked player location 306. Such radiation is absorbed and reflected in a particular pattern by virtue of the resonators disposed within each of the chips 100 so as to identify the number and value of the chips 100 which constitute the particular wager of the player.
  • the chip identification information is passed back through the chip identification sensor 312 to the main computer 304. This information is also viewed at dealer display panel 400 during the play of the hand of blackjack.
  • the chip identification sensor 312 is strategically located within the gaming table 302 so as to define a conical sensor field 714 emanating from the sensor 312 through the gaming table 302 and into a region of space directly above the marked player location 306. Such sensor field 714 however does not intrude upon other player locations in close proximity thereto.
  • Resonator 104 enhanced devices have been shown and described in use in a gaming establishment to identify players, dealers, token authenticity and token value.
  • resonators can be incorporated into playing cards to identify their authenticity and value as well.
  • card shoe 330 can optionally be provided with a playing card sensor 338 that is similar in design and construction to chip identification sensor 312.
  • the playing card sensor is also electrically connected to the main casino computer 304 via a flexible transmission cable (not shown) .
  • Each of a plurality of playing cards 340 in the shoe is provided with a specific resonator pattern that identifies that particular card (i.e., three 45 s slanted resonators identifies the "three of hearts" playing card and the like) .
  • the specified identification pattern is for exemplary purposes only.
  • any type of pattern can be used to identify the playing cards including randomly assigned patterns, serialization and the like.
  • the playing card sensor 338 emits radiation that is absorbed and then reflected in the predetermined pattern by the resonators 104.
  • the reflected signal is passed to the main casino computer 304 which identifies the playing card and the "three of hearts.”
  • the identified cards can then be optionally displayed in a playing card display panel 342. In this manner, playing card values are confirmed by the main casino computer 304 and honest, error-free play is maintained.
  • the system 300 operates in accordance with an automated rating system program that is part of the subject invention. That is, the processor unit 314 forms a general purpose computer that becomes a specific purpose computer when executing programs such as a program for identifying chips, rating players and other gaming activities as previously described.
  • programs such as a program for identifying chips, rating players and other gaming activities as previously described.
  • the requirements of the subject program are outlined in greater detail below.
  • the invention is described herein as being implemented in software and executed upon a general purpose computer, those skilled in the art will realize that a method of the present invention could be operated using hardware such as an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or other hardware circuitry. As such, the invention should be understood as being able to be implemented, in whole or in part, in software, hardware or both.
  • ASIC application specific integrated circuit
  • the processor unit 314 is either a microprocessor or other engine that is capable of executing instructions stored in a memory.
  • the memory 316 can be comprised of a hard disk drive, random access memory (“RAM”), read only memory (“ROM”), a combination of RAM and ROM, or another processor readable storage medium.
  • the memory 316 contains instructions that the processor unit 314 executes to facilitate chip identification, player rating and other gaming related activities as described in greater detail below.
  • the instructions in the memory 316 are in the form of program code .
  • the program code may conform to any one of a number of different programming languages. For example, the program code can be written in C+ , C++, BASIC, Pascal, or a number of other languages .
  • the display unit 322 provides information to a casino manager in the form of graphical displays and alphanumeric characters under control of the processor unit 314.
  • the input control unit 320 couples a data input device, such as a keyboard, mouse, or light pen, to the other computer components to provide for the receipt of input from an operator or from the gaming table 302.
  • the control unit bus 324 provides for the transfer of data and control signals between all of the devices that are coupled thereto.
  • the control unit bus 324 is displayed as a single bus that directly connects the devices in the main casino computer 304, the control unit bus 324 can also be a collection of busses.
  • the display unit 322, input control unit 320 and mass storage device 318 can be coupled to an input-output peripheral bus, while the processor unit 314 and memory 316 are coupled to a local processor bus.
  • the local processor bus and input- output peripheral bus are coupled together to form the control unit bus 324.
  • Fig. 8 depicts a method 800 of operating an automated rating system, particularly an automated rating system in a gaming establishment for tracking and identifying gaming tokens and thereby obtaining player information and granting awards.
  • the method begins at step 802 and proceeds to step 804 where a player recognition step is executed.
  • player recognition step is, for example, executed upon a new player entering their player card 602 into a player card reader 308 of one of a plurality of a player betting locations 306.
  • a generic card recognition step 806 is optionally executed after player recognition step 804.
  • Such generic card recognition step 806 requires that a generic player card such as card 902 of Figure 9 be inserted into a unoccupied player card reader 308 of an additional player location 306.
  • Player recognition step 804 concludes with the display of various information contained on the player ID card and/or accessed by the main casino computer 304. Such information is displayed on the floor persons display panel 500 of gaming table 302.
  • Step 808 is an optional printing of a player rating card.
  • a player rating card if needed, can be generated by the floor person by pushing a print button 516 on the floor persons display panel 500 that corresponds to the desired player of which information is requested.
  • the player rating card contains information about the player including but not limited to name, document number, account number (or patron number), available points, number of days played, average bet history, hit number, game type, table number, seat number, date, start time, and miscellaneous comments. It is noted that step 808 may be executed at any time during the method 800 and not necessarily prior to play of a hand.
  • a round of gaming is initiated by one or more players placing a bet on one of the player bet sensors 312 (indicated by a circle on decorative layer 708) .
  • a dealer then begins to deal cards to players and places the cards so that they cover the card sensor or photo cell 310 (hence "activating" the sensor) at the player locations 306.
  • the system 300 locks in the bets of all players upon the first two player photocells being covered or upon one player photocell and a dealer photocell 326 being covered.
  • the wagers of all players are displayed on the dealer display panel 400 of the gaming table 302. Such wagers are also logged in by the main casino computer 304. These wagers remain illuminated at the dealer display panel 400 during the entire round of play.
  • step 814 comp points are awarded to players who participated in the just concluded round of play. Specifically, the information regarding the wager amounts locked in and passed on the main casino computer 304 are accessed point values . These point values are then added to the individual player accounts at the conclusion of a round of play. Specifically, comp points are not awarded until at least one player photocell and the dealer photocell have been covered and then subsequently uncovered as part of the resetting process for the next hand.
  • a ulti-tiered system can be used in the method 800 to award points for different ranges of wagered amounts.
  • An exemplary three- tiered system would be as follows :
  • any type of tiered system or flat rate point assessment can be incorporated into the method 800 for awarding points to players. Such point values are modified and adjusted by casino management. Additionally, the method 800 will award the points to individuals playing at one more locations in proportion to the amounts wagered at each of those locations. The awarded points amount will be displayed in the floor persons display panel 500. Additionally, the total point value for the player will be accumulated and constantly updated by the main casino computer 304 and this information encoded onto the player identification card 602 so that all information regarding a particular players gaming occurrences is accurately recorded. All updated information is incorporated into the player ID card at step 816. At this point the method 800 then prepares to begins another round of play by looping up to step 802.
  • the present system and method for tracking chip and player habits facilitates obtaining information on individual players so as to properly award them based on the amount of money they have wagered over a course of time, the amount of time they have played, the number of times they have visited a particular gaming establishment, and the like. Such information was previously collected by hand and as such was potentially unreliable and did not accurately account for all activities of a particular player.
  • the system and method also accurately track the movement of gaming tokens, i.e. chips within the gaming establishment so as to reduce the likelihood of fraud and to passively enter wager information of a particular player.

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  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Management, Administration, Business Operations System, And Electronic Commerce (AREA)
  • Slot Machines And Peripheral Devices (AREA)

Abstract

Cette invention a trait à un système ainsi qu'à la méthode de mise en oeuvre de ce système, dans un environnement du type casino, permettant d'obtenir des informations sur le comportement d'un joueur et sur le mouvement de jetons de jeu ainsi que d'identifier ceux-ci. Ce système est constitué d'une ou de plusieurs tables de jeu, de plusieurs capteurs, installés dans les tables de jeu, servant à l'identification d'articles, d'un processeur central relié aux capteurs et de plusieurs articles poursuivables disposés ici et là sur les tables. Les articles poursuivables sont conçus pour être détectables par les capteurs, le processeur central établissant un profil historique du joueur et une information relatives à ses gains d'après le mouvement de ces articles poursuivables. La méthode permettant de recueillir des informations relatives à un joueur de casino et de lui distribuer ses gains, par le moyen d'un système d'identification automatique, consiste à reconnaître le joueur grâce aux moyens d'identification automatique, à identifier un montant parié par le joueur, à consigner le montant parié dans le système, à laisser se jouer ce montant parié, à mettre à jour le système à l'aide du montant parié, éventuellement à remettre son gain au joueur, et à mettre à jour les moyens d'identification automatique à l'aide du montant parié et du gain.
PCT/US1999/023778 1998-10-13 1999-10-13 Article identifiable et poursuivable automatiquement, systeme interagissant avec cet article WO2000022585A2 (fr)

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EP1291046A2 (fr) * 2001-09-07 2003-03-12 Aruze Corporation Système de surveillance de jeu, table de jeu et procédé de surveillance
GB2368539B (en) * 1999-08-09 2004-03-17 Neurizon Pty Ltd Prize awarding system
WO2004094012A2 (fr) * 2003-04-17 2004-11-04 Alliance Gaming Corporation Controle sans fil de cartes a jouer et/ou de mises dans un jeu
EP1498858A3 (fr) * 2003-07-17 2005-03-30 Aruze Corp. Système pour gérer des jeux
WO2007016283A2 (fr) * 2005-07-29 2007-02-08 Streamline Innovations Gmbh Ensemble et procede de validation de note et d'enregistrement
EP1762991A1 (fr) * 2005-09-09 2007-03-14 Progressive Gaming International Corporation Détection de phase de jeu
WO2007032954A1 (fr) * 2005-09-12 2007-03-22 Igt Ameliorations apportees aux jetons de jeu et a la securite des jeux sur table
EP1805735A1 (fr) * 2004-10-01 2007-07-11 Ubitrak Inc. Systeme de securite pour authentification de puces de jeu
EP1973081A3 (fr) * 2007-03-19 2009-10-14 Progressive Gaming International Corporation Vérification de jetons de jeu
US7822641B2 (en) 2005-05-19 2010-10-26 Igt Method and apparatus for monitoring game play
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US8192277B2 (en) 2006-08-17 2012-06-05 Bally Gaming, Inc. Systems, methods and articles to enhance play at gaming tables with bonuses
US8192283B2 (en) 2009-03-10 2012-06-05 Bally Gaming, Inc. Networked gaming system including a live floor view module
US8251803B2 (en) 2008-04-30 2012-08-28 Bally Gaming, Inc. Overlapping progressive jackpots
US8272945B2 (en) 2007-11-02 2012-09-25 Bally Gaming, Inc. Game related systems, methods, and articles that combine virtual and physical elements
US8285034B2 (en) 2009-08-26 2012-10-09 Bally Gaming, Inc. Apparatus, method and article for evaluating a stack of objects in an image
US8382584B2 (en) 2008-05-24 2013-02-26 Bally Gaming, Inc. Networked gaming system with enterprise accounting methods and apparatus
US8419542B2 (en) 2004-08-20 2013-04-16 Igt Wide area bonusing systems
US8613655B2 (en) 2008-04-30 2013-12-24 Bally Gaming, Inc. Facilitating group play with multiple game devices
US8647191B2 (en) 2006-09-26 2014-02-11 Bally Gaming, Inc. Resonant gaming chip identification system and method
US8721431B2 (en) 2008-04-30 2014-05-13 Bally Gaming, Inc. Systems, methods, and devices for providing instances of a secondary game
US8851988B2 (en) 2008-11-14 2014-10-07 Bally Gaming, Inc. Apparatus, method, and system to provide a multiple processor architecture for server-based gaming
US8870647B2 (en) 2006-04-12 2014-10-28 Bally Gaming, Inc. Wireless gaming environment
US9092944B2 (en) 2008-04-30 2015-07-28 Bally Gaming, Inc. Coordinating group play events for multiple game devices
US9339723B2 (en) 2007-06-06 2016-05-17 Bally Gaming, Inc. Casino card handling system with game play feed to mobile device
US9406194B2 (en) 2008-04-30 2016-08-02 Bally Gaming, Inc. Method and system for dynamically awarding bonus points
US9511279B2 (en) 2013-03-15 2016-12-06 Gamesys Ltd. Systems and methods for promoting game play frequency
US9892596B2 (en) 2013-09-18 2018-02-13 Igt Gaming system and method for providing a multiple player bonus event

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US6966834B1 (en) 1999-08-09 2005-11-22 Neurizon Pty Ltd Prize awarding system
US8444476B2 (en) 1999-08-09 2013-05-21 Igt Method of awarding prizes for jackpot and gaming machines based on amount wagered during a time period
US8118664B2 (en) 1999-08-09 2012-02-21 Igt Method of awarding prizes for jackpot and gaming machines based on amount wagered during a time period
GB2368539B (en) * 1999-08-09 2004-03-17 Neurizon Pty Ltd Prize awarding system
US7883407B2 (en) 2000-08-09 2011-02-08 Igt Method of awarding prizes for jackpot and gaming machines based on amount wagered during a time period
AU2002300903B2 (en) * 2001-09-07 2007-11-22 Universal Entertainment Corporation Game monitoring system, game playing table and monitoring method
AU2002300924B2 (en) * 2001-09-07 2007-10-11 Universal Entertainment Corporation Card game monitoring system, card game table and monitoring method
EP1291045A3 (fr) * 2001-09-07 2003-08-06 Aruze Corporation Système de surveillance de jeu de cartes, table de jeu de cartes et procédé de surveillance
US7422522B2 (en) 2001-09-07 2008-09-09 Aruze Corp. Game monitoring system, game playing table and monitoring method
US7172507B2 (en) 2001-09-07 2007-02-06 Aruze Corporation Card game monitoring system, card game table and monitoring method
EP1291045A2 (fr) * 2001-09-07 2003-03-12 Aruze Corporation Système de surveillance de jeu de cartes, table de jeu de cartes et procédé de surveillance
EP1291046A2 (fr) * 2001-09-07 2003-03-12 Aruze Corporation Système de surveillance de jeu, table de jeu et procédé de surveillance
EP1291046A3 (fr) * 2001-09-07 2003-06-04 Aruze Corporation Système de surveillance de jeu, table de jeu et procédé de surveillance
WO2004094012A3 (fr) * 2003-04-17 2005-03-03 Alliance Gaming Corp Controle sans fil de cartes a jouer et/ou de mises dans un jeu
WO2004094012A2 (fr) * 2003-04-17 2004-11-04 Alliance Gaming Corporation Controle sans fil de cartes a jouer et/ou de mises dans un jeu
EP1498858A3 (fr) * 2003-07-17 2005-03-30 Aruze Corp. Système pour gérer des jeux
US8419542B2 (en) 2004-08-20 2013-04-16 Igt Wide area bonusing systems
EP1805735A1 (fr) * 2004-10-01 2007-07-11 Ubitrak Inc. Systeme de securite pour authentification de puces de jeu
EP1805735A4 (fr) * 2004-10-01 2009-11-11 Ubitrak Inc Systeme de securite pour authentification de puces de jeu
US7822641B2 (en) 2005-05-19 2010-10-26 Igt Method and apparatus for monitoring game play
WO2007016283A3 (fr) * 2005-07-29 2007-04-26 Streamline Innovations Gmbh Ensemble et procede de validation de note et d'enregistrement
WO2007016283A2 (fr) * 2005-07-29 2007-02-08 Streamline Innovations Gmbh Ensemble et procede de validation de note et d'enregistrement
EP1762991A1 (fr) * 2005-09-09 2007-03-14 Progressive Gaming International Corporation Détection de phase de jeu
WO2007032954A1 (fr) * 2005-09-12 2007-03-22 Igt Ameliorations apportees aux jetons de jeu et a la securite des jeux sur table
US7938722B2 (en) 2005-09-12 2011-05-10 Igt Enhanced gaming chips and table game security
US9786123B2 (en) 2006-04-12 2017-10-10 Bally Gaming, Inc. Wireless gaming environment
US8870647B2 (en) 2006-04-12 2014-10-28 Bally Gaming, Inc. Wireless gaming environment
US8192277B2 (en) 2006-08-17 2012-06-05 Bally Gaming, Inc. Systems, methods and articles to enhance play at gaming tables with bonuses
US9514610B2 (en) 2006-09-26 2016-12-06 Bally Gaming, Inc. Resonant gaming chip identification system and method
US8647191B2 (en) 2006-09-26 2014-02-11 Bally Gaming, Inc. Resonant gaming chip identification system and method
EP1973081A3 (fr) * 2007-03-19 2009-10-14 Progressive Gaming International Corporation Vérification de jetons de jeu
US10008076B2 (en) 2007-06-06 2018-06-26 Bally Gaming, Inc. Casino card handling system with game play feed
US9659461B2 (en) 2007-06-06 2017-05-23 Bally Gaming, Inc. Casino card handling system with game play feed to mobile device
US10504337B2 (en) 2007-06-06 2019-12-10 Bally Gaming, Inc. Casino card handling system with game play feed
US9339723B2 (en) 2007-06-06 2016-05-17 Bally Gaming, Inc. Casino card handling system with game play feed to mobile device
US8920236B2 (en) 2007-11-02 2014-12-30 Bally Gaming, Inc. Game related systems, methods, and articles that combine virtual and physical elements
US8734245B2 (en) 2007-11-02 2014-05-27 Bally Gaming, Inc. Game related systems, methods, and articles that combine virtual and physical elements
US8272945B2 (en) 2007-11-02 2012-09-25 Bally Gaming, Inc. Game related systems, methods, and articles that combine virtual and physical elements
US9613487B2 (en) 2007-11-02 2017-04-04 Bally Gaming, Inc. Game related systems, methods, and articles that combine virtual and physical elements
US9092944B2 (en) 2008-04-30 2015-07-28 Bally Gaming, Inc. Coordinating group play events for multiple game devices
US8251803B2 (en) 2008-04-30 2012-08-28 Bally Gaming, Inc. Overlapping progressive jackpots
US9406194B2 (en) 2008-04-30 2016-08-02 Bally Gaming, Inc. Method and system for dynamically awarding bonus points
US8613655B2 (en) 2008-04-30 2013-12-24 Bally Gaming, Inc. Facilitating group play with multiple game devices
US8721431B2 (en) 2008-04-30 2014-05-13 Bally Gaming, Inc. Systems, methods, and devices for providing instances of a secondary game
US8382584B2 (en) 2008-05-24 2013-02-26 Bally Gaming, Inc. Networked gaming system with enterprise accounting methods and apparatus
US8851988B2 (en) 2008-11-14 2014-10-07 Bally Gaming, Inc. Apparatus, method, and system to provide a multiple processor architecture for server-based gaming
US8192283B2 (en) 2009-03-10 2012-06-05 Bally Gaming, Inc. Networked gaming system including a live floor view module
US8606002B2 (en) 2009-08-26 2013-12-10 Bally Gaming, Inc. Apparatus, method and article for evaluating a stack of objects in an image
US8285034B2 (en) 2009-08-26 2012-10-09 Bally Gaming, Inc. Apparatus, method and article for evaluating a stack of objects in an image
US9511279B2 (en) 2013-03-15 2016-12-06 Gamesys Ltd. Systems and methods for promoting game play frequency
US10121320B2 (en) 2013-03-15 2018-11-06 Gamesys Ltd. Systems and methods for promoting game play frequency
US9779583B2 (en) 2013-03-15 2017-10-03 Gamesys Ltd. Systems and methods for promoting game play frequency
US9892596B2 (en) 2013-09-18 2018-02-13 Igt Gaming system and method for providing a multiple player bonus event

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