U.S. patent application number 09/888286 was filed with the patent office on 2002-03-21 for telephonic-interface lottery system.
This patent application is currently assigned to Ronald A. Katz Technology Licensing, L.P.. Invention is credited to Katz, Ronald A..
Application Number | 20020033596 09/888286 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 46252603 |
Filed Date | 2002-03-21 |
United States Patent
Application |
20020033596 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Katz, Ronald A. |
March 21, 2002 |
Telephonic-interface lottery system
Abstract
A telephonic-interface lottery system D interfaces with a
multiplicity of individual terminals T1-Tn of a telephone network
facility C to enable lottery players to call and play for at least
one additional chance to possibly win by dialing a pay-to-dial
telephone number indicated on a "scratch-off" or online game
lottery ticket for use in the system. At the terminals, callers are
prompted by voice-generated instructions to provide digital data,
such as their telephone number, age, social security number, and/or
drivers license number. In addition, the sequence number of the
caller as well as the date and time of the call is recorded for
positive association with a caller and is stored for processing.
The caller's identification data is confirmed using various
techniques and callers may be ranked and accounted for on the basis
of entitlement and sequence. In accordance with one format, an
instant winner is selected online by utilizing techniques such as
determining a random winning sequence number or a winning lottery
number generated by a number generator. As an adjunct or
alternative, the identification data is processed at a later time
to determine a grand prize drawing winner by using various
processing techniques for determining winners.
Inventors: |
Katz, Ronald A.; (Los
Angeles, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Attention: Reena Kuyper
A2D, L.P.
Suite 315
9220 Sunset Blvd.
Los Angeles
CA
90069
US
|
Assignee: |
Ronald A. Katz Technology
Licensing, L.P.
Los Angeles
CA
|
Family ID: |
46252603 |
Appl. No.: |
09/888286 |
Filed: |
June 22, 2001 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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09888286 |
Jun 22, 2001 |
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08305822 |
Sep 13, 1994 |
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08305822 |
Sep 13, 1994 |
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07756956 |
Sep 9, 1991 |
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5365575 |
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07756956 |
Sep 9, 1991 |
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07555111 |
Jul 18, 1990 |
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5048075 |
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07555111 |
Jul 18, 1990 |
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07342506 |
Apr 24, 1989 |
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07342506 |
Apr 24, 1989 |
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07194258 |
May 16, 1988 |
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4845739 |
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07194258 |
May 16, 1988 |
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07018244 |
Feb 24, 1987 |
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4792968 |
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07018244 |
Feb 24, 1987 |
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06753299 |
Jul 10, 1985 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
283/49 ;
283/903 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04M 2201/40 20130101;
H04Q 2213/13175 20130101; H04M 2203/2016 20130101; H04Q 2213/13034
20130101; H04Q 2213/13095 20130101; H04M 3/42059 20130101; A63F
3/081 20130101; H04Q 2213/13103 20130101; H04Q 2213/1332 20130101;
G07F 17/3248 20130101; G07C 15/005 20130101; H04M 3/36 20130101;
H04Q 2213/13376 20130101; H04Q 3/74 20130101; A63F 3/0665 20130101;
H04Q 2213/13106 20130101; H04Q 2213/13097 20130101; H04Q 2213/13072
20130101; H04M 11/00 20130101; H04Q 2213/13256 20130101; H04Q
2213/13096 20130101; H04Q 2213/13375 20130101; G07F 17/32 20130101;
H04M 3/42042 20130101; H04Q 2213/13204 20130101; H04Q 3/54533
20130101; H04Q 2213/13377 20130101; H04Q 2213/13349 20130101; H04Q
3/002 20130101; H04Q 2213/13107 20130101; H04Q 3/54591 20130101;
H04Q 2213/13136 20130101; H04Q 2213/1337 20130101; H04Q 2213/13091
20130101; H04M 3/51 20130101; H04Q 3/5455 20130101; H04Q 2213/1309
20130101; H04M 3/46 20130101; H04Q 2213/1316 20130101; H04Q 3/665
20130101; A63F 2009/242 20130101; H04Q 2213/1322 20130101; H04M
3/493 20130101; Y10S 283/903 20130101; H04M 3/38 20130101; H04Q
2213/13178 20130101; H04Q 3/72 20130101; H04Q 2213/13173 20130101;
A63F 2003/086 20130101; H04M 2203/1066 20130101; H04M 2242/22
20130101; G07C 11/00 20130101; G07C 15/006 20130101; H04Q
2213/13093 20130101; G07C 2011/04 20130101; H04M 3/436 20130101;
H04M 3/42 20130101; H04Q 2213/1328 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
283/49 ;
283/903 |
International
Class: |
B42D 015/00; G09B
019/00 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A lottery ticket, comprising: a base substrate; primary indicia
indicated on said base substrate, said primary indicia defining a
lottery format to evidence winning a lottery combination; secondary
indicia indicating at least one unique identification number
indicated on said base substrate; obscuring means for-concealing
said primary indicia and at least a portion of said secondary
indicia; and tertiary indicia for providing at least one other
chance to win, said tertiary indicia including a telephone number
identifying an interface computer for testing said unique
identification number.
2. A lottery ticket as defined in claim 1, wherein said obscuring
means is a latex scratch-off layer.
3. A lottery ticket as defined in claim 1, wherein said telephone
number is a pay-to-call number.
4. A telephonic-interface lottery control system for use with a
communication facility including remote terminal apparatus for
individual lottery players to call, wherein said remote terminal
apparatus may comprise a conventional telephone instrument
including voice communication means, and digital input means in the
form of an array of alphabetic numeric buttons for providing
identification data, said telephonic-interface lottery system
comprising: interface means coupled to said communication facility
to interface said terminal apparatus for voice and digital
communication; voice generator means coupled through said interface
means for providing vocal instructions to an individual caller to
enter identification data; means for processing data supplied by
said individual callers, said processing means coupled to said
interface means and selecting at least one subset of at least one
winner; qualification means for limiting access to said processing
means; and means for storing said identification data.
5. A telephonic-interface lottery system as defined in claim 4,
wherein said qualification means further comprises a consumable key
test means to qualify callers with respect to limited access, said
consumable key test means including a check digit verification.
6. A telephonic-interface lottery system as defined in claim 5,
wherein said qualification means utilizes a look up table to
determine if said limited access is exceeded.
7. A telephonic-interface lottery system as defined in claim 6,
wherein said look up table comprises caller telephone numbers.
8. A telephonic-interface lottery system as defined in claim 7,
wherein said telephone numbers are provided by ANI.
9. A telephonic-interface lottery system as defined in claim 6,
wherein said look up table comprises social security numbers
10. A telephonic-interface lottery system as defined in claim 4,
wherein said processing means selects said subset online.
11. A telephonic-interface lottery system as defined in claim 4,
further comprising: means for formulating data for each individual
caller and storing said formulated data in said storing means.
12. A telephonic-interface lottery system as defined in claim 4,
wherein said processing means selects said subset offline
subsequent to accumulating data with regard to a multitude of
callers.
13. A telephonic-interface lottery system as defined in claim 4,
further comprising: a plurality or automatic call distributors for
interfacing a plurality of calls from said terminals with said
qualifying means.
14. A method for conducting a telephonic-interface lottery for use
with a communication facility including remote terminal apparatus
for individual lottery players to call, wherein said remote
terminal apparatus may comprise a conventional telephone instrument
including voice communication means, and digital input means in the
form of an array of alphabetic numeric buttons for providing
identification data, comprising the steps of: developing a
consumable key number for use with an interactive call processing
format; providing said consumable key number on a ticket for
identification, said consumable key number entered by each
individual caller via said digital input means; testing said
consumable key number to limit access to said lottery; generating
sequence data for each individual caller; and processing said
consumable key numbers to select at least one subset thereof and
corresponding sequence data by comparing external data with said
consumable key number and sequence data to identify a winning
subset.
15. A method for conducting a telephonic-interface lottery as
defined in claim 14, further comprising: testing said consumable
key number with a check digit test.
16. A method for conducting a telephonic-interface lottery as
defined in claim 14, further comprising the step of: concealing at
least a portion of said consumable key number.
17. A method for conducting a telephonic-interface lottery as
defined in claim 14, further comprising the step of: recording the
date and time at which each call occurs with said sequence
data.
18. A method for conducting a telephonic-interface lottery as
defined in claim 14, further comprising the step of: providing DNIS
capability to provide digital identification data indicating a
called number.
19. A method for conducting a telephonic-interface lottery as
defined in claim 14, further comprising the step of: recording
additional personal identification data provided by the caller.
20. A method for conducting a telephonic-interface lottery as
defined in claim 19, further comprising the step of: recording said
caller's telephone number.
21. A method for conducting a telephonic-interface lottery as
defined in claim 19, further comprising the step of: recording at
least two separate types of identification data.
22. A method for conducting a telephonic-interface lottery as
defined in claim 14, further comprising the step of: processing
said consumable key numbers online.
23. A method for conducting a telephonic-interface lottery as
defined in claim 14, further comprising the step of: processing
said consumable key numbers offline at a later time.
Description
[0001] This is a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No.
555,111 filed Jul. 18, 1990, and entitled "Telephonic-Interface
Statistical Analysis System", now U.S. Pat. No. 5,048,075, which
issued Sep. 10, 1991, which was a continuation of application Ser.
No. 342,506 filed Apr. 24, 1989 and entitled "Tele phonic-Interface
Statistical Analysis System", now abandoned, which was a
continuation of application Ser. No. 194,258 filed May 16, 1988,
now U.S. Pat. No. 4,845,739, which issued Jul. 4, 1989, which was a
continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 018,244 filed Feb. 24,
1987, and entitled "Statistical Analysis System For Use With Public
communication Facility", now U.S. Pat. No. 4,792,968, which issued
on Dec. 20, 1988, which was a continuation-in-part of application
Ser. No. 753,299 filed Jul. 10, 1985 and entitled "Statistical
Analysis System For Use With Public Communication Facility", now
abandoned.
BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Various forms of publicly accessible communication systems
for providing access to a central station have been proposed, some
involving telecommunications. However, sometimes a need for
ancillary functions arise in that regard, e.g. it may be desirable
to positively identify a large group of persons, statistically
analyze data from the group so as to accurately identify certain
persons in the group and select a subset, or sub subsets of at
least one person. In that regard, a need exists for an improved,
effective, economical, and expedient system of telecommunication
incorporating means for performing qualification, identification,
analysis and selection of individual persons.
[0003] It has been proposed to interface persons at telephone
calling stations directly with a computer facility. In accordance
with such arrangements, recorded voice messages prompt callers to
provide data by actuating the alphanumeric buttons that are
conventionally employed for dialing from one telephone station to
another. In one prior arrangement, a caller may actuate dialing
buttons to selectively attain a communication channel or to address
specific information in a computer. In another arrangement, dialing
buttons may be actuated to specify an individual billing
designation as for requested services. Generally, such systems are
believed to have been somewhat limited in scope, often involving
difficulties that are frustrating or confusing to a caller.
Nevertheless, such techniques have been widely used to enhance and
broaden communication.
[0004] The public lottery has become widely accepted as a basis for
supporting government activities while providing aspects of
entertainment and hope. Typically, conventional public lotteries
have been facilitated by computers and data processing systems
utilizing various formats. One conventional type of lottery
incorporates the use of "scratch-off" lottery tickets that are sold
by retailers. Under this system, winning tickets are returned to
lottery retailers who redeem the tickets for the prize amounts,
based on a physical approval of the lottery ticket.
[0005] In general, the present invention comprises a
telephonic-interface lottery system and related process to further
stimulate interest in the lottery by providing at least one
additional chance to possibly win some prize (whether or not the
scratch-off lottery ticket is a winner) by calling a pay-to-call
number indicated on the scratch-off lottery ticket. The
telephonic-interface lottery system can also be utilized with
online tickets in which case the online terminal printer can print
at least one unique identification number (either the existing
printed ticket or lotto number or a new special number which may be
interrelated to the existing ticket number) for subsequent
telephone use. In one embodiment, scratch-off lottery tickets for
use in the telephonic-interface lottery system include primary
indicia defining a lottery format to evidence a winning lottery
combination and at least one unique identification number used to
pursue the additional chances. The lottery format and at least a
portion of the identification number are concealed. The telephone
number facilitating a play of the additional chance is a
pay-to-call number, such as preferably a 900 phone number.
[0006] The telephonic-interface lottery system utilizes both analog
(voice) and digital telephonic communication in a variety of
different interface formats or programs, to record data relating to
each caller, in particular data formulated by the lottery system
such as the sequence number of the call including the date and time
at which the call occurred, data provided by the caller such as the
area code and telephone number followed by the unique
identification number or additional chance number from the lottery
ticket. The system is configured to eliminate duplicate entries and
verify the unique identification number. Instant winners can be
selected while the lottery player is on the telephone by a
designated winning sequence number or by a random number generator.
In addition, winners can also be selected at a later designated
time by a designated winning sequence number or by the random
number generator.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0007] In the drawings, which constitute a part of this
specification, exemplary embodiments exhibiting various objectives
and features hereof are set forth, specifically:
[0008] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a telephonic- interface lottery
system constructed in accordance with the present invention;
[0009] FIG. 2 is a top plan view of a scratch-off lottery ticket
for use in the system of FIG. 1;
[0010] FIG. 2a is a cross sectional view taken along line 2a-2a in
FIG. 2;
[0011] FIG. 3 is a flow diagram of one operating format of the
system of FIG. 1;
[0012] FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a form of processor or function
unit as may be employed in the system of FIG. 1;
[0013] FIG. 5 is a bottom plan view of the scratch-off lottery
ticket shown in FIG. 2;
[0014] FIG. 6 is a block diagram of elements in an operating
function unit of FIG. 4;
[0015] FIG. 7 is a fragmentary diagrammatic representation of a
storage cell format as may be developed in the system of FIG. 4;
and
[0016] FIG. 8 is a block diagram of elements in an operating
function unit of FIG. 4.
[0017] FIG. 9 is a block diagram of the connections between an
interface CPU, a remote lottery CPU and remote stations.
DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS
[0018] As required, detailed illustrative embodiments of the
present invention are disclosed herein. However, physical
communication systems, data formats, and operating structures in
accordance with the present invention may be embodied in a wide
variety of forms, some of which may be quite different from those
of the disclosed embodiments. Consequently, the specific structural
and functional details disclosed herein are merely representative;
yet in that regard, they are deemed to afford the best embodiments
for purposes of disclosure and to provide a basis for the claims
herein which define the scope of the present invention.
[0019] Referring initially to FIG. 1, a series of remote
telephone-instrument terminals T1 through Tn are represented
(left). The terminals are generally similar, and accordingly, only
the terminal T1 is illustrated in detail.
[0020] In the disclosed embodiment, the remote terminals T1 through
Tn represent the multitude of conventional telephone terminals that
are coupled to a communication facility C which may take the form
of a comprehensive public telephone system for interconnecting any
associated terminals T1-Tn. In accordance with the present system,
the terminals T1-Tn operate through the communication facility C to
be coupled with a central station D, an embodiment of which is
illustrated in some detail.
[0021] Generally in accordance with the present development,
individual callers use the individual telephone stations T1 through
Tn to interface the station D through the communication facility C.
Callers may be screened or qualified. Also in accordance herewith,
the data of individual callers including digital data provided by
callers may be collected, correlated and tested in the station D
for processing in accordance with various programs and external
data. As a consequence, various objectives are accomplished. For
example, a select subset of the callers may be isolated and
specifically identified, or related data may be processed, or
transactions may be actuated. The possibilities for application of
the system are substantial and varied as will be apparent from the
exemplary structure and functions as described in detail below.
[0022] In one operating process format, legal lotteries are enabled
that are interesting, effective and very economical on an
individual participant basis. The telephonic-interface lottery
system of the present invention further stimulates interest in the
lottery by providing at least one additional chance to possibly win
a prize in addition to a winning lottery format provided on a
scratch-off lottery ticket or an online ticket. The additional
chance is facilitated by calling a pay-to-call number indicated on
the scratch-off lottery ticket. Some formats may use toll free 800
numbers as well.
[0023] The callers may be variously qualified on the basis of
entitlement and may be identified for subsequent verification. The
callers may be prompted, either through the interface or
externally, to provide appropriate data, such as their age and the
additional chance number which may be one or more unique
identification numbers.
[0024] Considering the system of FIG. 1 in somewhat greater detail,
it is to be understood that the communication facility C has
multiplexing capability for individually coupling the terminals
T1-Tn to the central station D on request. In the illustrative
embodiment of the system, the communication facility C comprises a
public telephone network and the individual terminals T1-Tn take
the various forms of existing traditional or conventional telephone
instruments.
[0025] The exemplary telephone terminal T1 is represented in some
detail to include a hand piece 10 (microphone and earphone) and a
panel 12 provided with a rectangular array of push buttons 14 in
the conventional configuration. Of course, the hand piece 10
accommodates analog signals while the panel 12 is a digital
apparatus. Generally in accordance herewith, the hand piece 10
serves to manifest analog signals vocally to the caller.
[0026] In accordance with conventional telephone practice,
alphabetic and numeric designations are provided on the buttons 14.
For example, several of the buttons 14 carry three letters along
with a decimal digit. specifically, the button designated with the
numeral "2" also carries the letters "A", "B" and "C". In that
manner, the buttons 14 encompass the numerals "0-9", two symbols,
and the alphabet except for the letters "Q" and "Z". Consequently,
the buttons 14 accommodate the entry of decimal data, and to some
extent alphabetic data.
[0027] The buttons 14 designated with symbols "*" and "#", along
with the numeral "0", can be used by predetermined assignment to
represent the letters "Q" and "Z" or any of a variety of other data
or command components. Generally, in accordance herewith, the
buttons 14 are employed to formulate digital data at the central
station D in various formats determined by the instant specific use
and operating format of the system.
[0028] Considering the central station D in somewhat greater
detail, the communication facility C is coupled to interface a
series of processing systems P1 through Pn (FIG. 1, right).
Specifically, the communication facility C is connected to the
processing systems P1-Pn through an associated series of automatic
call distributors AC1 through ACn. Each of the automatic call
distributors AC1-ACn accommodates one hundred lines from the
communication facility C and accordingly, may accommodate and queue
up to 100 calls.
[0029] Each of the automatic call distributors AC1-ACn may take
various forms as well know in the prior art, functioning to queue
incoming calls for connection to a lesser number of lines. Also, in
various systems audio response units (ARU's) may be used as for
preliminary processing in accordance with the operations as
described below.
[0030] In the disclosed embodiment, from each of the call
distributors AC1-ACn, fifty lines are connected respectively to the
individual data processing systems P1-Pn through an interface 20
and a switch 21. Thus, in the disclosed embodiment, each of the
automatic call distributors AC1-ACn can accommodate one hundred
lines, fifty of which may be active in association with one of the
processing systems P.
[0031] The processing systems P1-Pn are similar, therefore, only
the processing system P1 is shown in any detail. Collectively, the
processing systems P1-Pn are interconnected with a command computer
terminal CT, at least one interface terminal IT, at least one
printer PR and an audio unit AD. The command terminal CT is
separately coupled to the audio unit AD.
[0032] As represented, the processing systems P1 through Pn each
contain a number of individual function units or processors PR1
through PRn. Although various other configurations and arrangements
may be employed, the explanation is facilitated by including a
plurality of individual function units as treated in detail
below.
[0033] Considering the processing system P1, fifty lines from the
automatic call distributor AC1 are connected to the interface 20,
an-exemplary form of which may be a commercially available Centrum
9000 unit. The interface 20 incorporates modems, tone decoders,
switching mechanisms, DNIS and ANI capability (call data analyzer
20a) along with voice interface capability. Note that the interface
may actually perform analysis on data. However, to preserve the
disclosed embodiment manageable, major analysis is explained with
reference to processors.
[0034] Generally, DNIS capability is a function of the
communication facility C (composite telephone system) to provide
called terminal digital data indicating the called number. ANI
capability is a similar function whereby the digital data indicates
the calling number with calling terminal digital signals. Both
capabilities are available for use with equipment as the interface
20 and to provide control through the call data analyzer 20a.
[0035] Accommodating up to fifty independent calls on separate
communication paths to the central station D, the interface 20 is
capable of providing analog (voice) signals to prompt each caller.
Also accommodated are digital signals including the DNIS and ANI
signals. The system contemplates the possibility of utilizing
sequences of lines in rotary as well as blocking sequences of
lines, the numbers for which command a particular program or
operation format of a function unit as disclosed in detail
below.
[0036] The interface 20 provides the connection of the fifty lines
to a switch 21 which is in turn coupled to fifty function units, or
processors PR1-PRn. As indicated above, multiple function units, or
processors, are described in the disclosed embodiment to facilitate
the explanation. Of course, non-parallel techniques and multiplexed
operations might well be employed as alternatives. For a similar
reason, as disclosed herein, each of the processors PR1-PRn
includes memory cells for each of the callers' individual data.
Development and compilation of data in such cells according to
various operating formats is described below. In the disclosed
embodiment, the processors PR1-PRn are connected collectively to
the command computer terminal CT (incorporating a CRT display), the
interface terminal IT, and the printer PR. Note that the CRT
display serves to visually display data regarding select subsets as
explained in detail below.
[0037] Exemplary detailed structures for the processors PR1-PRn are
described below; however, in general, the units may comprise a
microcomputer, for example, programmed as suggested above and as
disclosed in detail below to accomplish specific operating formats.
As an integral part of such formats, a caller may be qualified as
belonging to an entitled set of persons, such as persons holding a
proper lottery ticket and being over a certain age. Also, callers
may be designated both with respect to their significance and their
identification. For example, callers may have different
significance in a format, depending on the time or sequence of
their call. Also, the designation of a caller may be exceedingly
important in relation to the caller eventually being isolated as
part of a subset or sub subsets, the members of whom must be
accurately verified.
[0038] As described below, in a lottery format the designations may
involve multiple elements which may include: random number
assignments, encryption techniques, utilization of calling numbers,
identification data, sequence of call and so on to facilitate
reliable verification. Note that the communication facility C has a
customer billing structure B that is interfaced by the system.
[0039] On the qualification and designation of callers, the system
enters a data receiving phase during which digital data (formatted
at one of the telephone terminals T1-Tn by the caller) is processed
by one of the processors PR1-PRn. In general, the processing
evolves a subset (at least one caller) and also possibly a sub
subset, the members of which may be verified and confirmed.
[0040] Either during the data accumulation phase, or after the
processing phase to isolate a subset, a distinct operation may
involve actuating the interface terminal T1 for direct
communication between the caller and an operator at the terminal
T1. Another distinct operation may involve actuation of the printer
PR to provide documents in relation to the operating format, as for
providing award certificates as for verifying members of an
isolated subset. Also, charge slips may be generated containing at
least part of the data of a particular transaction.
[0041] A general sequence of operations for a format is represented
to be initiated in FIG. 3 by the "enter" block 40 which is
accordingly followed by a "cue voice generator" command block 42.
If the ANI (automatic number identification) equipment is not
employed, the voice generator in the interface 20 formulates
speech, a representative form of which might be: "Thank you for
participating in the lottery. Please give us your telephone number
by actuating the call buttons on your telephone instrument."
[0042] Acting on the instructions, the caller would push the
buttons 14 in sequence to indicate his telephone number, e.g.
"(213) 627-2222". Alternatively, the interface 20 can accept the
calling number ((213) 627-2222) according to its provision by
standard ANI equipment of the communication facility C.
[0043] The resulting data signals are communicated from the
interface unit 20 (FIG. 1) to the processor PR1 for testing the
telephone number as valid or entitled. Essentially, the format of a
proper number prompts production of a valid or "good" signal. The
test is indicated by the block 44 (FIG. 3). If the response is not
valid or entitled, for example contains an inappropriate number of
digits or has been used to a point of excess, the operation of
block 46 is initiated again cuing the voice generator 30 (FIG. 1).
The voice generator accordingly instructs the caller, e.g.: "You
have not entered a proper telephone number. Please reenter your
telephone number by pressing the appropriate call buttons." The
caller is then allotted a predetermined period of time to make a
proper entry with the consequence that the system moves to a test
operation as indicated by the block 48 (FIG. 3). Specifically,
block 48 poses the query: "Is the second try good?"
[0044] If the caller is again unsuccessful, the system purges the
record as indicated by the block 50 and the call is terminated as
indicated by the block 52. In an alternative mode, the processor
PR1 may abort the interface and couple the interface terminal IT
for direct personal communication with the caller. The interchange
would then proceed, person-to-person.
[0045] If the caller responds with a proper telephone number, the
operation proceeds. Specifically, the system sequences to record
the response of the proper telephone number as indicated by the
block 45. That is, the caller's telephone number is recorded in an
assigned specific memory cell identified with the caller. The
format of the cell C1 is indicated in FIG. 7 showing the individual
fields or sections. The first portion, section 53, contains a form
of identification data, i.e., the caller's telephone number, i.e.
"(213) 627-2222".
[0046] Note that as explained above, if the second attempt to
formulate a proper number is successful, as manifest by the block
48 (FIG. 3), the response is recorded at that stage. In either
case, exiting from the block 45 (FIG. 3) invokes the next operation
of again queuing the voice generator as indicated by the block
56.
[0047] At this juncture, the system proceeds to receive and process
the lottery ticket data as well as other data such as the
identification data provided by the caller and the data formulated
by the computer. The result is a subset of winners, or perhaps
ultimately several subsets or sub subsets of winners or potential
winners. However, first the lottery ticket number (such as the
unique identification number) is entered by the caller as indicated
by the block 68. The lottery number may be stored in section 66
(FIG. 7) of cell C1.
[0048] At the outset, the system may test the lottery ticket number
on the basis of its format. That is the number is verifiable (as by
digit combinations, for example the first two digits may equal the
third) and is tested as explained above in relation to the
telephone number. If a received number is invalid, the call may be
terminated as explained above. Any record may be purged.
[0049] If the number is valid, it is next tested as a winner.
Essentially, the number is treated as a consumable key, entitled
for example to a single use for participation. The participation
may include an online subset determination of winners and a
subsequent offline determination of another subset of winners.
These tests are indicated by the block 68. From that point, as
illustrated by the block 70, data is accumulated for subsequent
offline processing.
[0050] The detailed operation is not represented in FIG. 3 as it is
similar to the operation illustrated by the blocks 42 through 56.
However, again, a proper response is registered in the storage cell
C1 as illustrated in FIG. 7 by the number "58".
[0051] During the course of the telephonic communication, the
processor PR1 formulates identification data for the caller
specifically such as: the date and time of the call, the
chronological sequence of the call, the assigned designation of the
call, and a set of acknowledgment digits for the call. Such data
identification is registered in the caller's assigned cell C1 in
accordance with the format of FIG. 2 being stored in sections 62,
64, 67 and 69. Note that the data may be stored in a coded
interrelationship. For example, the acknowledgment digits may be
related to the call record sequence. In the illustrative example,
the chronological order number of the caller is 4951. The
acknowledge digits may be derived from the sequence number. For
example, as illustrated, a coded relationship may be established by
adding "two" to each of the individual record sequence digits.
Considering the example numerically: 1 4951 2222 6173
[0052] Adding without propagated carries: 6173
[0053] Note that the confirmation data as acknowledgement digits
can be extremely important, as to communicate with an isolated
member of a subset. For example, identification of an ultimate
winner could be published or circulated, as by a television
broadcast, then respondents checked by use of confirmation data
that may be confidential.
[0054] Continuing with the above example, the call chronological
sequence registered for the caller is 4951 as represented in the
section 62 while the acknowledge digits are 6173 as registered in
the section 66. Additionally, the processor PR1 develops an
assigned designation number, e.g. designation "4951684", which is
registered in the section 67, the acknowledge code or digits, e.g.
6173, being registered in the section 69. These values are
formulated in accordance with conventional number techniques during
the data acquisition phase. With the exemplary numerals formulated,
the operation proceeds.
[0055] In the detailed operation, in addition to entering data from
the remote terminal, the processor PR1 (FIG. 1) cues the internal
memory as indicated by the block 70 (FIG. 3). Thus, the processor
PR1 fetches the call record sequence number, assigns a designation
(if not previously assigned, in some cases the sequence number is
the designated number), and encodes the sequence number as the
acknowledgment digits (if not previously accomplished).
[0056] To confirm receipt of the acknowledgement digits, the
processor PR1 (FIG. 1) cues the voice generator in the interface
20, as indicated by the block 72 (FIG. 3) to provide information to
the caller. Specifically, for example, the voice generator in the
interface 20 (FIG. 1) might signal: "This transaction has been
designated by the number 4951684, and is further identified by the
acknowledgment digits 6173. Please make a record of these numbers
as they will be repeated. Specifically, the designation number is
4951684. The acknowledgment digits are 6173. Please acknowledge
this transaction by pressing your telephone buttons to indicate the
acknowledge digits 6173." In lottery applications typically
involving security, the order and acknowledgment of callers may be
very important. Therefore, data for confirmation associated with
the order is important.
[0057] The system next proceeds to the test mode as indicated by
the block 76 (FIG. 3). If the caller provides the correct
acknowledgment digits, the data is confirmed in the record as
indicated by the block 80 and is registered in the cell C1 (FIG.
2). Additionally, the voice generator is sequenced as indicated by
the block 82 (FIG. 3) to indicate the close of the communication
and that the transaction is terminated as represented by the exit
block 84.
[0058] In the event that a caller cannot confirm his acknowledgment
digits, as indicated by the block 76, a repeat operation is
performed as indicated respectively by the blocks 86 and 88.
Specifically, the voice generator is queued for a second
instructional message. In the event that the second attempt also
fails, the data is purged and the call discounted as indicated by
block 90 and an exit block 92. If the second try is successful
(test block 88), as indicated by the block 80, the record is
perfected as indicated above.
[0059] As a result of the likelihood of a large number of calls, as
described above, data cells in the processors PR1-PRn (FIG. 1) are
developed with specific information relating to each call. Such
data, accumulated from the various calls may be considered by logic
comparisons in the computer 22 to select the subset of winning
persons who should be isolated at a later point.
[0060] The processing operation usually involves comparison testing
which compares caller data from individual memory cells of the
processors P1-Pn (FIG. 1) with test data, such as a look-up table,
that is supplied through the command terminal CT.
[0061] Preliminary to considering an exemplary form of the
telephonic-interface lottery system of the present invention,
reference will now be made to FIG. 4 showing an exemplary
structural form for the processors PR1-PRn. From the switch 21
(FIG. 1) a pair of communication lines 90 and 91 are indicated in
FIG. 4 (top left). The line 90 provides signals from a processing
unit 92 while the line 91 provides signals to the processing unit
92 along with other components as represented in FIG. 4. The
separate lines 90 and 92 facilitate explanation.
[0062] The processing unit 92 may take the form of a mini-computer
programmed to accommodate the functions of various applications, as
disclosed in detail below. As indicated above, the system may
utilize a plurality of independent function units or processing
units, e.g., processing unit 92, operating in a somewhat parallel
configuration, or alternatively, a limited number of processors may
be driven sequentially to accommodate the functional operations as
described.
[0063] The input line 91 (upper left) is connected specifically to
a qualification unit 93, a sequencer 94 and a designation unit 96,
as well as the processing unit 92 as indicated above. The
qualification unit qualifies access from a remote terminal T1-Tn to
the processing unit 92 as described in detail below. In accordance
with various applications or operating formats, the qualification
unit 93, the sequencer 94 and the designation unit 96 operate
preliminarily with respect to individual callers. Generally, these
units qualify or test callers for entitlement to participate in the
lottery, develop a sequence-of-calls record and provide forms of
designations for callers that may be authenticated. As described in
detail below, the units function in sequence to accomplish such
operations and accordingly are each individually connected to the
processing unit 92 and a buffer storage 97. Essentially, the buffer
storage 97 is illustrated separately from the processing unit 92
along with the unit 93, sequencer 94, unit 96, and so on, again in
order to facilitate the explanation. Similarly illustrated are a
memory 98 (with cells C1-Cn), a look-up table 103 and a clock
105.
[0064] Considering the processor of FIG. 4 in further detail, the
qualification unit 93 (upper left) is connected to a look-up table
99 and a use-rate calculator 100. The designation unit 96 (top
center) is connected to a random number generator 101 and an
encryptor 102.
[0065] In view of the above structural description of the system,
consideration will now be given to a certain specific application
in relation to the operation of the system.
[0066] As the illustrative operating format, an embodiment of the
telephonic-interface lottery system will now be described. The
legalized state lottery typically features various "scratch-off"
ticket lottery game formats such as "the California Classic",
"Treasure Hunt", "Blackjack", "Lucky 7's" and the like. In
addition, lotteries typically offer online games such as Lotto. The
enhanced lottery system accommodated by the present telephone
system may utilize pay-to-dial numbers ("900-xxxx") or toll free
800 numbers and may be restricted to a limited number of uses for
defined intervals of time. For example, a person might be entitled
to play the lottery only a limited number of times or to the extent
of a limited dollar value during a predetermined interval.
[0067] Certain digits of the unique identification number may
contain information on a particular format, for example the
"California Classic". Multiple formats may run simultaneously and
the DNIS for example may indicate the lottery format and processing
for each game. Additionally digits in the unique number when
entered by the caller might indicate a telephone subformat.
[0068] Referring now to FIG. 2, a lottery participant upon
purchasing a "scratch-off" lottery ticket LT for use in the system
D has at least two chances to win. The first chance is facilitated
by a lottery format defining a winning combination, for example by
matching three like dollar amounts or symbols from a plurality
provided in a first section S1. Subsequent chances are provided by
telephone communication in accordance herewith. Preliminarily,
consider the specific structure of a ticket in accordance
herewith.
[0069] The lottery ticket LT is made from any suitable base
substrate typically used and is likewise suitably sized to
accommodate all the information. A scratch-off layer covers part or
all of the ticket. Structurally, the ticket LT is a composite
including a base substrate L1 (FIG. 2a) bearing a latex scratch-off
layer L2. Visible print or indicia L3 appears on the latex layer L2
which may be integral or over stamped. Concealed indicia L4 is
fixed on the substrate L1 and is revealed when the latex layer is
removed. As illustrated in FIG. 2, the concealing areas S1 and S2
of the latex layer L2 are illustrated by wavy lines, accordingly
normally concealed indicia is revealed.
[0070] As illustrated in FIG. 2, the upper section S1 of the
scratch-off latex layer L2 defines ticket-specified winners. That
is, as indicated above, matching combinations or symbols define
winners. The lower scratch-off section S2 of the ticket LT
indicates a unique identification number UN which may be several
digits. The first section S1 and at least a portion of the
identification number UN is covered with a suitable substance, such
as latex in order to conceal the lottery format and the complete
identification number from the lottery participants, retailers and
the like and prevent any fraudulent activity. The unique
identification number may also be the stock number (sequence number
assigned by the lottery for each ticket to keep track thereof) of
the lottery ticket with additional concealed or latex protected
digits.
[0071] The lottery ticket LT also indicates the pay-to-dial
telephone number indicia 59 to facilitate additional chances to
win. For example, the lottery ticket LT bears indicia 61 indicating
"For Another Chance call 900-555-1212". Accordingly, regardless of
whether the lottery ticket LT defines a winning combination, the
lottery participant has another chance to possibly win by dialing
the pay-to-dial number and incurring a further minimal cost, for
example 50 cents. In some formats all players including winners of
the matching combinations are provided with an additional
opportunity to win. Note that the ticket LT also carries another
number as indicated by the unconcealed indicia 63.
[0072] The lottery ticket LT on its reverse side is provided with a
bar code BC defining a number corresponding to the unique
identification number UN which would allow the retailer or the
lottery system to verify instant winners when the lottery tickets
are redeemed and automatically cancel related information on the
data stored in the memory.
[0073] Pursuing the operation of the system in greater detail,
using the specified calling number (900 555 1212) from the terminal
T1 (FIG. 1) the caller would actuate the push buttons 14 to
establish contact with the processing system P1. Communication
would be through the communication facility C, the automatic call
distributor AC1, the interface 20 and the switch 21 as described in
detail above.
[0074] The initial operation involves qualification of the caller
to participate in the lottery. Again, ANI or caller interface
techniques may be employed as described above. If the caller is
involved, the interface 20 is actuated by the qualification unit 93
during the operating interval t1 to instruct the caller: "please
key in your telephone calling number". As indicated above, an
alternative involves the system simply registering the calling
number on the basis of its provision by ANI equipment. As indicated
above, in one sequence the callers telephone number is tested at
this point. Also, the lottery number also may be tested at this
stage or subsequently. Various sequences are practical, another of
which involves data accumulation prior to winner tests.
[0075] After the caller's telephone number is registered, the
instruction is given: "Participation in the lottery is for persons
over twenty-one years of age. Accordingly, please key in the year
of your birth". A birth date, social security number, driver's
license or credit card number may be similarly registered to
confirm age or confirm identification of caller. Alternatively, the
combination of telephone number and date or year of birth or age
could be used. In any event, the caller's data is registered and
the qualification unit 93 then functions to test the data as
provided. Specifically, the caller's telephone number is checked in
a look-up table 99 to determine whether or not it is a proper and
currently valid number for use in the lottery.
[0076] If the data indicates a qualified caller, the system
proceeds to the next phase of designating the transaction. The
designation unit 96 operates during the interval t3 to provide the
caller with a designation for the current transaction which may be
the sequence number. As explained above, the random generator 101
with or without the encryptor 102 may be employed to create an
identification number which may include an encrypted form of the
caller's telephone number. Accordingly, data for the transaction is
established in the buffer 97 then set in a cell of the memory 98
(FIG. 4). Specifically, the completed data cell format might be as
follows:
[0077] Telephone No.-Birth Year-Designation-Random No.
[0078] In the format being described, the system next functions to
generate the random number as indicated above which will then be
tested against a series of other numbers to determine whether or
not the caller is a winner. In that regard, elements in the
processing unit 92 which accomplish the operation are illustrated
in FIG. 6 which will now be considered in detail.
[0079] Typically, a caller will have scratched off the latex layer
L2 over the section S2 prior to placing a call to the lottery
interface system. Depending on the operating sequence employed, at
some point, the caller is cued to input the number carried by the
indicia UN. Specifically, the number is simply entered using the
terminal touch tone keypad. As a result winners can be selected
with online processing while the caller is on the phone as well as
by off-line processing at a later designated time. Both online and
off-line winners can be selected by determining a winning sequence
number or by selecting a random lottery number or selecting a
random sequence number.
[0080] A random number generator 160 functions on command to
provide a three-digit number. With the consummation of a call, the
random number generator 160 is actuated to provide the caller's
random number in a selected caller cell 162. From that location,
the caller's random number is compared with numbers from a register
164 by a comparator 166. The numbers in the register 164 were
previously passed through a gate 174 from the generator 160. In the
event of coincidence, the comparator provides an output "yes"
signal to a line 168. Conversely, the failure of coincidence
prompts the comparator 166 to provide a "no" output to a line 170.
Essentially, a "yes" indicates a win while a "no" indicates the
caller has lost.
[0081] The elements of FIG. 6 provide a random operating format to
determine winners on a somewhat statistical basis; however, the
system increases the probability with the passage of time when no
win occurs. In that regard, at the outset of an operating cycle,
the random number generator 160 provides a random number that is
passed through the gate 174 to the register 164. In the exemplary
format, a three-digit number would be provided. At that stage, the
caller's random number, from the cell 162, would be compared with
the single number in the register 164 by the comparator 166.
However, with the passage of time, calls are tallied or time is
metered by a counter 178. Accordingly, upon the attainment of a
predetermined count, the gate 174 is again qualified to enter
another number in the register 164. Accordingly, an increasing set
of numbers are held in the register 164 for comparison with each
caller's number. Of course, the more numbers in the register 164,
the higher probability of a caller winning and that relationship
depends upon the duration or number of calls since the last
winner.
[0082] Either a win or a loss as indicated within the processing
unit 92 (FIG. 4) prompts the interface 20 to respond appropriately
to the caller announcing his results. If there is a win, the
designation may be reinforced and additional identification may be
taken as explained above. Of course, if the prize simply involves a
credit on the caller's telephone bill or his credit account,
identification and designation become less critical
considerations.
[0083] In the event of awards to be claimed, the processing system
P1 (FIG. 1) may actuate the printer PR to produce a positive
identification of the winner, which document may be redeemed only
by the caller providing the assigned designation along with
confirmation of his identification data.
[0084] Generally in relation to awards, the processing unit 92 may
also utilize a random number format for determining the
significance of awards. That is, a random number may be actuated to
provide numerals from one through twenty, for example, the
magnitude of the number generated for a caller indicating the
significance of his award. Normally such information would be
provided to the caller and registered in his memory cell.
[0085] With respect to memory cells generally, it is to be noted
that actuated memory cells may be cleared for callers who are not
winners. Accordingly, a limited number of memory cells store the
subset of winners for subsequent confirmation processing and so on.
Alternatively, historical data cells for each caller may be
maintained.
[0086] As explained above, clearances may be perfected through the
look-up table 99 (FIG. 4) in association with the qualification
unit 93 or approvals through a consumable key step may be extended
to incorporate functions of the processing unit 92 in association
with the memory 98. For example, if qualification simply involves a
check-off operation, the look-up table 99 will normally be
employed.
[0087] As explained above, the arrangement of the function unit (or
units) may be variously embodied in a single processor or many
processors, depending on various considerations as time sharing,
multiplexing, paralleling and so on. The systems as described above
embody the components bulked together in one location. However,
components of the system could be spaced apart geographically,
using dedicated lines or polling techniques. An illustrative
embodiment is shown in FIG. 9.
[0088] Call distributors CD1-CDn are located at different
geographic locations along with associated interface units IA1-IAn
and IB1-IBn. Each of the interface units, as unit IA1 is coupled to
an interface central processing unit 260 as indicated by lines 252,
254, 256 and 258. The interface CPU 260 may be located
geographically proximate the interface units ,for example in Omaha,
to record and store the data relating to each caller, including the
data provided by the caller and the data formulated by the computer
in a data file 264 coupled thereto as indicated at line 266. Each
of the lines may take the form of a dedicated telephone line or a
polling telephonic coupling. The interface central processing unit
260 is coupled to a lottery central. processing unit 251 indicated
at line 262 which may be located remote from the interface central
processing unit 260 as for example in Indianapolis.
[0089] In the operation of the system of FIG. 9, the call
distributors CD are coupled to a telephonic communication system
and accordingly allow the interface units I and the interface CPU
260 to provide interface communication between the lottery central
processing unit 251 and a multitude of remote terminals T1-Tn. The
interface central processing unit 260 stores complete data with
regard to each caller in the data file 264. The interface central
processing unit 260 may variously transmit or download important
data only, for example the unique identification or ticket number
and prize type (such as B) or prize amount ($50) stored in section
65 (FIG. 7) to the lottery central processing unit 251. Accumulated
data with regard to a plurality of callers may be transmitted at a
designated time to save on transmission time and cost. Downloaded
data for the additional chances is also stored at a file 270. Thus,
the distributed-component system is capable of executing the
various formats as explained above with reference to the
illustrative structure.
[0090] In view of the above explanation of exemplary systems, it
will be appreciated that other embodiments of the present invention
may be employed in many applications to accumulate statistical
data, process such data, and define subsets of callers of concern.
While certain exemplary operations have been stated herein, and
certain detailed structures have been disclosed, the appropriate
scope hereof is deemed to be in accordance with the claims as set
forth below.
* * * * *