U.S. patent application number 10/187120 was filed with the patent office on 2003-03-13 for method and apparatus for managing hotel transactions from a gaming device.
Invention is credited to Downs, Michael D., Friesen, Scott T., Gelman, Geoffrey M., Jorasch, James A., Tedesco, Daniel E., Walker, Jay S..
Application Number | 20030050806 10/187120 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 26882733 |
Filed Date | 2003-03-13 |
United States Patent
Application |
20030050806 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Friesen, Scott T. ; et
al. |
March 13, 2003 |
Method and apparatus for managing hotel transactions from a gaming
device
Abstract
A customer may be permitted to use a gaming device such as a
slot machine to manage various transactions related to a hotel,
such as checking in and/or checking out of the customer's room at
the hotel. A customer may receive a benefit in exchange for using a
gaming device for a transaction.
Inventors: |
Friesen, Scott T.;
(Stamford, CT) ; Walker, Jay S.; (Ridgefield,
CT) ; Jorasch, James A.; (Stamford, CT) ;
Gelman, Geoffrey M.; (Stamford, CT) ; Tedesco, Daniel
E.; (Huntington, CT) ; Downs, Michael D.;
(Stamford, CT) |
Correspondence
Address: |
WALKER DIGITAL
FIVE HIGH RIDGE PARK
STAMFORD
CT
06905
US
|
Family ID: |
26882733 |
Appl. No.: |
10/187120 |
Filed: |
June 28, 2002 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60302063 |
Jun 29, 2001 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
705/5 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G07F 17/3239 20130101;
G07F 17/32 20130101; G07F 17/3255 20130101; G06Q 20/18 20130101;
G06Q 10/02 20130101; G06Q 99/00 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
705/5 |
International
Class: |
G06F 017/60 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A method comprising: receiving a player identifier at a gaming
device; assigning a hotel room to a player identified by the player
identifier; and using the gaming device to communicate to the
player information regarding the assigning of the hotel room.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein the receiving step includes
reading the player identifier from a player tracking card
interfaced to the gaming device.
3. The method of claim 1, wherein the receiving step includes
reading the player identifier from a credit or debit card
interfaced to the gaming device.
4. The method of claim 1, wherein the communicated information
includes a room number which corresponds to the assigned hotel
room.
5. The method of claim 1, further comprising: transmitting the
player identifier to an electronic door lock mechanism associated
with the assigned hotel room.
6. The method of claim 1, further comprising: generating a room
access code.
7. The method of claim 6, further comprising: transmitting the room
access code to an electronic door lock mechanism associated with
the assigned hotel room.
8. The method of claim 6, further comprising: magnetically writing
the room access code on a player tracking card interfaced to the
gaming device.
9. The method of claim 1, wherein the gaming device is located at a
hotel that includes the assigned hotel room.
10. The method of claim 1, wherein the gaming device is a slot
machine.
11. The method of claim 1, further comprising: accessing a hotel
reservation database on the basis of the received player
identifier.
12. The method of claim 1, further comprising: associating the
received player identifier with a room identifier that corresponds
to the assigned hotel room.
13. The method of claim 1, further comprising: using the gaming
device to present hotel room preferences information to the
player.
14. The method of claim 1, further comprising: using the gaming
device to present a reservation confirmation page to the
player.
15. The method of claim 1, further comprising: receiving at the
gaming device information regarding a hotel stay desired by the
player.
16. The method of claim 15, wherein the information regarding the
hotel stay includes a desired check-out date.
17. The method of claim 15, wherein the information regarding the
hotel stay includes a desired type of room.
18. The method of claim 1, further comprising: using the gaming
device to communicate to the player an offer for the player to
relinquish the assigned room.
19. The method of claim 1, further comprising: using the gaming
device to communicate to the player an offer for the player to
delay occupying the assigned room.
20. The method of claim 1, further comprising: applying to payment
for the assigned room gaming credits won via the gaming device.
21. The method of claim 1, further comprising: awarding free use of
the assigned room based on a game outcome provided by the gaming
device.
22. The method of claim 1, further comprising: offering a benefit
to the player in exchange for using the gaming device to check
in.
23. The method of claim 1, further comprising: awarding gaming
credit at the gaming device in response to the player using the
gaming device to check in to a hotel that includes the assigned
hotel room.
24. The method of claim 1, further comprising: using the gaming
device to inform the player concerning a telephone message for the
player.
25. The method of claim 1, further comprising: allowing the player
to use the gaming device to access or send an electronic mail
message.
26. The method of claim 1, further comprising: retrieving a credit
card number for the player in response to receiving the player
identifier.
27. The method of claim 26, further comprising: charging payment
for the assigned hotel room to a credit card account associated
with the retrieved credit card number.
28. A method comprising: receiving a player identifier at a gaming
device; and accessing a hotel reservation database on the basis of
the received player identifier.
29. The method of claim 28, further comprising: using the gaming
device to present hotel room preferences information to a player
identified by the player identifier.
30. The method of claim 28, further comprising: using the gaming
device to present a reservation confirmation page to a player
identified by the player identifier.
31. The method of claim 28, further comprising: assigning a hotel
room to a player identified by the player identifier.
32. The method of claim 28, wherein the receiving step includes
reading the player identifier from a player tracking card
interfaced to the gaming device.
33. The method of claim 28, wherein the receiving step includes
reading the player identifier from a credit or debit card
interfaced to the gaming device.
34. The method of claim 28, wherein the gaming device is a slot
machine.
35. The method of claim 28, further comprising: offering a benefit
to the player in exchange for using the gaming device to check
in.
36. A method comprising: receiving a player identifier at a gaming
device; associating the received player identifier with a room
identifier; presenting to a player identified by the player
identifier at least one of a reservation confirmation page and
hotel room preferences information; and generating a room access
code associated with the room identifier.
37. The method of claim 36, wherein the gaming device is a slot
machine.
38. The method of claim 36, wherein the receiving step includes
reading the player identifier from a player tracking card
interfaced to the gaming device.
39. The method of claim 36, wherein the receiving step includes
reading the player identifier from a credit or debit card
interfaced to the gaming device.
40. The method of claim 36, further comprising: magnetically
writing the room access code on a player tracking card interfaced
to the gaming device.
41. The method of claim 36, further comprising: transmitting the
received player identifier to an electronic door lock
mechanism.
42. The method of claim 36, further comprising: transmitting the
room access code to an electronic door lock mechanism.
43. The method of claim 36, wherein the gaming device is located at
a hotel that includes a room associated with the room
identifier.
44. The method of claim 36, wherein the at least one of a
reservation confirmation page and the hotel room preferences
information is presented to the player via the gaming device.
45. The method of claim 36, further comprising: retrieving a credit
card number for the player in response to receiving the player
identifier.
46. The method of claim 36, further comprising: offering a benefit
to the player in exchange for using the gaming device to check
in.
47. A method comprising: receiving a player identifier at a gaming
device; and receiving at the gaming device an indication that a
player identified by the player identifier wishes to check out of a
hotel room.
48. The method of claim 47, further comprising: accessing a hotel
reservation database on the basis of the received player
identifier.
49. The method of claim 47, further comprising: accessing a hotel
room database on the basis of the received player identifier.
50. The method of claim 47, wherein the receiving step includes
reading the player identifier from a player tracking card
interfaced to the gaming device.
51. The method of claim 47, wherein the gaming device is a slot
machine.
52. The method of claim 47, further comprising: presenting to the
player a billing statement in response to the received
indication.
53. The method of claim 52, further comprising: receiving from the
player an indication that the player approves the billing
statement.
54. The method of claim 53, wherein the indication that the player
approves the billing statement is received via the gaming
device.
55. The method of claim 52, wherein the billing statement is
presented to the player via the gaming device.
56. The method of claim 55, further comprising: printing the
billing statement at the gaming device.
57. The method of claim 47, further comprising: offering a benefit
to the player in exchange for using the gaming device to check
out.
58. A method comprising: receiving at a gaming device an identifier
that identifies a customer; receiving via the gaming device a
request by the customer for a hotel room; associating a hotel room
with the customer; and transmitting to the customer an identifier
that identifies the hotel room.
59. A method comprising: receiving at a gaming device an identifier
that identifies a customer; receiving at the gaming device a
request by the customer to check in; and transmitting a signal to a
casino representative, the signal indicating an instruction to
assist the customer at the gaming device with check-in.
60. A method comprising: receiving an identifier that identifies a
player at a gaming device; receiving a wager from the player at the
gaming device; assigning a hotel room to the player; and
transmitting to the player at the gaming device data that indicates
the assignment of the hotel room.
61. An apparatus for handling a hotel transaction, comprising: a
processor; and a storage device coupled to the processor, the
storage device storing a program for controlling the processor and
the processor operative with the program to: receive a player
identifier via a gaming device; assign a hotel room to a player
identified by the player identifier; and use the gaming device to
communicate to the player information regarding assignment of the
hotel room.
62. An apparatus for handling a hotel transaction, comprising: a
processor; and a storage device coupled to the processor, the
storage device storing a program for controlling the processor and
the processor operative with the program to: receive a player
identifier via a gaming device; and access a hotel reservation
database on the basis of the received player identifier.
63. An apparatus for handling a hotel transaction, comprising: a
processor; and a storage device coupled to the processor, the
storage device storing a program for controlling the processor and
the processor operative with the program to: receive a player
identifier via a gaming device; associate the received player
identifier with a room identifier; present to a player identified
by the player identifier at least one of a reservation confirmation
page and hotel room preferences information; and generate a room
access code associated with the room identifier.
64. An apparatus for handling a hotel transaction, comprising: a
processor; and a storage device coupled to the processor, the
storage device storing a program for controlling the processor and
the processor operative with the program to: receive a player
identifier via a gaming device; receive via the gaming device an
indication that a player identified by the player identifier wishes
to check out of a hotel room.
65. A computer program product comprising: a medium readable by a
computer, the computer readable medium having: program code adapted
to receive a player identifier via a gaming device; program code
adapted to assign a hotel room to a player identified by the player
identifier; and program code adapted to use the gaming device to
communicate to the player information regarding the assigning of
the hotel room.
66. A computer program product comprising: a medium readable by a
computer, the computer readable medium having: program code adapted
to receive a player identifier via a gaming device; and program
code adapted to access a hotel reservation database on the basis of
the received player identifier.
67. A computer program product comprising: a medium readable by a
computer, the computer readable medium having: program code adapted
to receive a player identifier via a gaming device; program code
adapted to associate the received player identifier with a room
identifier; program code adapted to present to a player identified
by the player identifier at least one of a reservation confirmation
page and hotel room preferences information; and program code
adapted to generate a room access code associated with the room
identifier.
68. A computer program product comprising: a medium readable by a
computer, the computer readable medium having: program code adapted
to receive a player identifier via a gaming device; and program
code adapted to receive via the gaming device an indication that a
player identified by the player identifier wishes to check out of a
hotel room.
Description
[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority of U.S.
Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 60/302,063, filed Jun.
29, 2001, the content of which is hereby incorporated by reference
in its entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates generally to the gaming and
hospitality industries, and more specifically to hotel transaction
functions.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] The hotel industry provides rooms to millions of travelers
each year. Travelers may encounter delays in checking in and/or
checking out of a hotel. When there are more customers desiring to
check in or check out than employees available to assist them, a
waiting line for check-in or check-out is likely. Check-in delays
may be particularly frustrating for visitors to casino resort
hotels, who are often anxious to begin their gaming experience.
[0004] One method that a resort casino has used to attempt to
decrease long check-in lines has been to use a portable hand-held
check-in device. Such a device, referred to as the EXPRESS CHECK-IN
developed by INTER-AMERICAN DATA/LODGING MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS
(IAD/LMS), enables hotel employees to check-in guests quickly and
to give the guests room assignments based on swiping a credit card.
The device uses hand-held wireless technology, and communicates in
real-time over the known SPECTRUM24 wireless infrastructure to an
AS/400-based property management system. Information concerning
this device may be available at
http://www.symbol.com/news/pressreleases/press_releases_wirelesslans.sub.-
--8.html.
[0005] One disadvantage of this device is that the system can only
be operated by a hotel employee. As with conventional check-in
procedures, the number of incoming or outgoing customers may exceed
the number of employees equipped with the device. Thus, waiting
lines are not likely to be eliminated in all cases.
[0006] It has also been proposed, in U.S. Pat. No. 6,101,477, that
a hotel guest perform check-in without assistance from hotel
employees by using a kiosk that is operated with smartcards carried
by the hotel guests. Among the disadvantages of this proposal are
the costs of providing and maintaining the kiosk.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0007] The present invention is described with reference to the
accompanying drawings. In the drawings, like reference numbers
indicate identical or functionally similar elements.
[0008] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram in accordance with one or more
embodiments of the invention;
[0009] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of
a server;
[0010] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of
a gaming device;
[0011] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of
a wireless terminal;
[0012] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of
a room lock mechanism;
[0013] FIG. 6 is a tabular representation of an embodiment of a
customer database;
[0014] FIG. 7 is a tabular representation of an embodiment of a
room database;
[0015] FIG. 8 is a tabular representation of an embodiment of an
offer database;
[0016] FIG. 9 is a tabular representation of an embodiment of a
reservation database;
[0017] FIGS. 10A and 10B together are a flow chart of an exemplary
process according to one or more embodiments;
[0018] FIG. 11 is a sample of a preferences page in accordance with
one or more embodiments; and
[0019] FIG. 12 is a flow chart of an exemplary process according to
one or more embodiments.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0020] According to various embodiments of the invention, a method
for handling a hotel transaction, such as a check-in process or a
check-out process, includes conducting the hotel transaction via a
gaming device. According to other embodiments of the invention, a
method is provided for communicating information with a person via
a gaming device, such as reservation information, room information,
guest preference information, message information, and/or offer
information.
[0021] Various embodiments of the invention provide a method for
handling a hotel transaction, including receiving a player
identifier at a gaming device and assigning a hotel room to the
player identified by the player identifier. Some embodiments
provide a method including using the gaming device to communicate
to the player information regarding the assigning of a hotel room
(e.g., the number of the assigned hotel room may be displayed to
the player by a slot machine).
[0022] In some embodiments of the invention, a method for handling
a hotel transaction includes receiving a player identifier at a
gaming device, and accessing a hotel reservation database on the
basis of the received player identifier.
[0023] In one or more embodiments of the invention, a method for
handling a hotel transaction includes receiving a player identifier
at a gaming device and associating the received player identifier
with a room identifier.
[0024] Some embodiments of the invention include presenting to a
player identified by a player identifier at least one of a
reservation confirmation page and a hotel room preferences
page.
[0025] In some embodiments of the invention, a method for handling
a hotel transaction includes receiving a player identifier at a
gaming device, and receiving at the gaming device an indication
that the player identified by the player identifier wishes to check
out of a hotel room.
[0026] One or more embodiments of the invention provide for a
method including offering and/or providing a benefit to a player in
exchange for the player using a gaming device for all or a portion
of a check-in process, and/or a check-out process.
[0027] Some embodiments of the invention provide for a method
including offering and/or providing a benefit to a player in
exchange for the player using a gaming device to obtain and/or
provide information (e.g., hotel reservation information,
restaurant reservation information, messages, or theater
information) in lieu of receiving/providing the information from/to
a hotel representative.
[0028] Systems, apparatus and computer program products are
provided for carrying out the above-described embodiments and
numerous other embodiments of the present invention. Each computer
program product described herein may be carried by a medium
readable by a computer (e.g., a carrier wave signal, a floppy disk,
a hard drive, a random access memory, etc.).
[0029] Applicants have recognized that many different types of
hotel guests, customers and players would find it appealing to use
a gaming device for at least part of a check-in or check-out
process. Applicants have also recognized that many different types
of parties would find it appealing to permit guests and players to
use a gaming device for at least part of a check-in or check-out
process. With the methods and apparatus of the present invention,
gaming devices such as slot machines and/or video poker machines
may be used to supplement a casino hotel's facilities for checking
in and/or checking out hotel guests. Consequently, waiting lines
for checking in and/or checking out may be reduced or eliminated,
thereby providing more free time for hotel guests to engage in
gaming activities. As a result, gaming profits of the casino hotel
may be increased.
[0030] Also, by allowing check-in and/or check-out via a gaming
machine, hotel guests may be encouraged to engage in gaming
activity at the gaming machine immediately upon arriving at the
casino hotel, and/or prior to departing from the casino hotel.
Again, the hotel guest's time spent in gaming activity may be
increased, thereby increasing gaming profits of the casino
hotel.
[0031] Applicants have also recognized that many different types of
parties would find it appealing to use a gaming device for various
types of hotel and information transactions. Gaming devices may be
used to exchange communications with hotel guests, for example,
concerning other aspects of their hotel stay in addition to
check-in and/or check-out. Once more, the guests' time spent in
gaming activity at the gaming devices may thereby be increased.
Furthermore, promotional offers (e.g., from the hotel, from a third
party) and other incentives may be communicated through and/or
implemented by gaming devices, so that the satisfaction of guests,
players, and other customers or potential customers with the casino
hotel may be enhanced, and repeat business may be promoted.
[0032] Moreover, providing information exchange with the hotel
guest via gaming devices, implementing functions related to the
hotel reservation system via gaming devices, and presenting offers
to customers via gaming devices all may lead customers to interact
with gaming devices more frequently, to continue interacting with
gaming devices for longer periods of time, or even to interact with
gaming devices when they would not otherwise be inclined to do so.
In some cases, guests who customarily do not engage in gaming
activity may be encouraged, through interaction with a gaming
device for non-gaming purposes, to engage in gaming activity also.
The flexibility and convenience provided by devices offering access
to various aspects of the casino experience, both gaming and
non-gaming (e.g., hotel reservation information, restaurant
reservation information, theater information, or a message center),
may encourage guests and players to seek out such gaming devices
and to patronize the hotels that offer them.
[0033] With these and other advantages and features of the
invention that will become hereinafter apparent, the nature of the
invention may be more clearly understood by reference to the
following detailed description of the invention, to the appended
claims and to the several drawings attached herein.
[0034] Novel methods, apparatus, systems and computer program
products are provided that efficiently handle check-in and
check-out transactions at a casino hotel. For example, in
accordance with one or more embodiments of the invention, a player
may arrive at a casino and observe a line at the hotel registration
counter. The player may then approach one of a bank of slot
machines located near the hotel registration counter. The slot
machine is in data communication with a casino server. The player
enters his player tracking card into the slot machine and is
presented with a customized welcome message on the slot machine's
video display. The slot machine may permit the player to indicate
that the player desires to check in to the hotel. In response to
such an indication, the casino server accesses a reservation
database and locates the player's reservation. Alternatively,
searching of the database for a reservation may occur automatically
upon the player entering his player tracking card into the slot
machine.
[0035] The slot machine presents a registration screen to the
player on its video display. The slot machine may prompt the player
to enter personal information and preferences. For example, the
slot machine may prompt the player to confirm that the displayed
hotel reservation information is correct and to choose from a list
of personal preferences for perks related to the desired hotel
room.
[0036] The slot machine may then prompt the player to enter his
credit card into a credit card reader that is part of the slot
machine. Alternatively, the casino server may automatically
retrieve a previously stored credit card number from a database
that is indexed by a player identifier code read by the slot
machine from the player tracking card. The slot machine may then
display a message to the player indicating that the player tracking
card may be used as a hotel room key. In addition, the slot machine
may display to the player the number of a room that has been
assigned to the player.
[0037] The slot machine may include a printer that is used to print
out for the player information such as a map of the hotel,
directions to the player's room and/or a list of activities and
shops within the casino hotel complex. The slot machine may also
display a message to the player indicating that the player is being
rewarded for using the slot machine to check in. The reward may be,
for example, gaming credits that are usable for wagering at that
slot machine.
[0038] At the end of the player's stay at the casino hotel, the
player may also use a slot machine to handle a check-out
transaction. To do so, the player enters his player tracking card
into the slot machine and selects a check-out option. The casino
server then accesses data relating to the player's room account
(e.g., in a reservation or room database) and causes the slot
machine to display to the player a statement of the player's
account. The player can then approve the statement and receive a
printed version of the statement from the printer of the slot
machine. From the point of view of the player, check-out is now
complete.
[0039] The present invention provides numerous advantages over the
prior art. Through use of one or more embodiments of the invention,
a player may be able to begin slot machine play almost immediately
after arriving at the casino hotel, and without being delayed by
lines at the registration counter. Accordingly, the total time
available for the player to engage in gaming activity may be
increased. The invention may provide increased convenience to the
player in other ways, since the player may be able to check in or
check out of the casino at any time of the day or night and without
requiring assistance of hotel employees. The player may also be
permitted, in one or more embodiments of the invention, to
conveniently handle via a slot machine other hotel transactions in
addition to check-in or check-out. In one or more embodiments, the
player may also receive benefits and offers from the casino hotel
based on one or more of the player's gaming activity and/or
information or requests submitted by the player via the slot
machine. For example, by filling out a customer preference survey,
a player may request specific items to be delivered to his room. As
another example, a player may automatically receive a room upgrade
as a reward for playing the slot machine for a certain minimum
period of time.
[0040] In addition to providing benefits to players, embodiments of
the invention also provide benefits to the casino hotel. For
example, since the player avoids wasting time on check-in and
check-out, the time available to the player for gaming activities
may increase, with a corresponding increase in casino revenue.
Also, the interaction with the slot machine by the player for
non-gaming activities may lead the player to visit the slot machine
more frequently and to stay at the slot machine longer, resulting
in more gaming activity by the player and enhanced gaming profits
for the casino. Further, the casino may experience increased repeat
visits from players due to the convenience and benefits offered by
handling hotel transactions at a slot machine. In addition,
information provided by the player, such as a customer and/or
preference survey, may provide the casino hotel with a better
understanding of customer needs and an ability to better serve
customers. The casino hotel may also benefit from reduced overhead
and/or labor costs, since guests are able to check in and/or check
out of the hotel without the assistance of hotel employees.
[0041] The term "player" is frequently used herein to indicate a
person interacting with a gaming device. It will be understood that
"player" may refer to any person or entity (e.g., a hotel guest, a
casino customer or potential customer, a tourist visiting a casino,
or a slot machine player) using the gaming device in accordance
with one or more embodiments of the present invention. Thus, a
"player" need not play the gaming device (e.g., need not make a
wager on a game of chance at the gaming device) and need not have
been or plan to be a player of any gaming device. For example, a
customer may use a gaming device only for non-gaming purposes, such
as to make a future hotel reservation, to receive voice mail
messages, or to schedule a room cleaning.
[0042] 1. System
[0043] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a system 100 in accordance
with one or more embodiments of the invention. The system 100
includes a server 102 in communication with one or more gaming
devices 104, room lock mechanisms 106, wireless terminals 108, and
hotel reservation systems 110. Each of the gaming devices, room
lock mechanisms, wireless terminals, and hotel reservation systems
may comprise one or more computing devices, such as those based on
the Intel.RTM. Pentium.RTM. processor, adapted to communicate with
the server 102. Well-known computing devices include, without
limitation, a personal computer; a portable type of computer, such
as a laptop computer, a palm-top computer, a wearable computer, or
a hand-held computer; and/or a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA).
Other equivalent devices capable of performing the methods
specified herein are well known in the art.
[0044] The gaming devices 104 may be, for example, slot machines
and/or video poker machines. The server 102 and/or the gaming
devices 104 may include features provided in accordance with one or
more embodiments of the invention, as described further below.
Although four gaming devices 104 are shown in the drawing, it
should be understood that any number of gaming devices may
communicate with the server 102.
[0045] The system 100 also includes a room lock mechanism 106 in
communication with the server 102. The room lock mechanism 106
includes features provided in accordance with one or more
embodiments of the invention, as described further below. Although
only one room lock mechanism 106 is shown in FIG. 1, it should be
understood that any number of room lock mechanisms may communicate
with the server 102. In one or more embodiments of the invention, a
respective room lock mechanism 106 provided in one or more
embodiments and in communication with the server 102 is installed
to control entry at each guest room of the hotel served by the
server 102.
[0046] The system 100 also includes a wireless terminal 108 which
is in communication (via a wireless data link) with the server 102.
The wireless terminal 108 is provided in accordance with one or
more embodiments of the invention, as described further below.
Although only one wireless terminal 108 is shown in the drawing, it
should be understood that any number of wireless terminals 108 may
communicate with the server 102. While the wireless terminal 108 is
a desirable feature of the system 100, it is not essential, and may
be omitted from the system 100.
[0047] The system 100 also includes a reservation system 110 that
is in communication with the server 102. The hotel reservation
system 110 is provided in accordance with one or more embodiments
of the invention, as described further below. The hotel reservation
system 110 may operate in a conventional fashion, for example, to
handle requests for reservations from prospective guests, to obtain
room availability information from the server 102, and to provide
reservation information to the server 102. In one or more
embodiments of the invention, the server 102 may comprise the hotel
reservation system 110.
[0048] The server 102 may communicate with the gaming devices, room
lock mechanisms and the reservation system directly or via a
network, including, without limitation, the Internet, wireless
network protocol, local area network or a combination thereof;
through a Web site maintained by the server 102 on a remote server;
or over an on-line data network including, without limitation,
commercial on-line service providers and bulletin board systems.
The server 102 may communicate with the gaming devices, room lock
mechanisms and the reservation system directly or indirectly. In
yet other embodiments, communication with the server 102 may be via
a radio frequency, infrared, cable TV, satellite links and the
like.
[0049] Those skilled in the art will understand that devices in
communication with each other need only be capable of communicating
with each other and need not be continually transmitting data to or
receiving data from each other. On the contrary, such devices need
only transmit data to or receive data from each other as necessary,
and may actually refrain from exchanging data most of the time.
Further, devices may be in communication even though steps may be
required to establish a communication link (e.g., dialing a network
service provider).
[0050] The server 102 may function as a "Web server" that generates
Web pages (documents on the Web that typically include an HTML file
and associated graphics and script files) that may be accessed via
the Web and allows communication with the server 102 in a manner
known in the art.
[0051] 2. Devices
[0052] 2.1. Server
[0053] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of the server 102
of FIG. 1. The casino server 200 may be implemented as a system
controller, as a dedicated hardware circuit, as an appropriately
programmed general purpose computer, or as any other equivalent
electronic, mechanical or electromechanical device. The casino
server 200 is preferably operable to process various hotel
transactions and casino transactions.
[0054] With reference to FIG. 2, the casino server 200 comprises a
processor 201, such as one or more conventional microprocessors
(e.g., one or more INTEL.RTM. PENTIUM.RTM. processors). The
processor 201 is in communication with a communications port 202
through which the processor 201 communicates with other devices
(e.g., with gaming devices, with room lock mechanisms, with
wireless terminals, and with a hotel reservation system). The
communications port 202 may include multiple communication channels
for simultaneous communication with, for example, the gaming
devices 104, the room lock mechanism 106, other room lock
mechanisms (not shown), the wireless terminal 108, other wireless
terminals (not shown) and/or the hotel reservation system 110. As
previously stated, devices in communication with each other need
not be continually transmitting to each other. On the contrary,
such devices need only transmit to each other as necessary, may
actually refrain from exchanging data most of the time, and may
require several steps to be performed to establish a communication
link between the devices.
[0055] The processor 201 also is in communication with a data
storage device 204. The data storage device 204 may comprise an
appropriate combination of magnetic, optical and/or semiconductor
memory, and may include, for example, random access memory (RAM),
read only memory (ROM), a compact disk and/or a hard disk. The
processor 201 and the data storage device 204 each may be, for
example, (i) located entirely within a single computer or other
computing device; or (ii) connected to each other by a
communication medium for remote communication, such as a serial
port cable, a telephone line, a network connection or a radio
frequency transceiver. Alternatively, the casino server 200 may
comprise one or more computers that are connected to a remote
server computer for maintaining databases.
[0056] The data storage device 204 may store, for example, (i) a
program 206 (e.g., computer program code and/or a computer program
product) adapted to direct the processor 201 in accordance with the
present invention, and particularly in accordance with the
processes described in detail hereinafter in regard to the casino
server 200; (ii) a customer database 208 adapted to store
information regarding individuals (e.g., players who have
registered as members of a "players' club" or similar program
sponsored by the casino served by the casino server 200; guests
registered with a hotel; or other customers or potential customers
of a casino, such as those included in a mailing list for
promotional materials); (iii) a room database 210 adapted to store
information about the individual guest rooms of the hotel served by
the casino server 200; (iv) an offer database 212 adapted to store
information concerning offers that the casino server 200 may
communicate to players from time to time via gaming devices and/or
wireless terminals; and (v) a reservation database 214 adapted to
store information regarding room reservations made by players and
other hotel patrons via a reservation system.
[0057] The program 206 may be stored in a compressed, an uncompiled
and/or an encrypted format, and may include computer program code
that allows the casino server 200 to employ the communications port
202 to:
[0058] 1. communicate with the gaming devices 104 and the wireless
terminal 108 to handle hotel transactions such as check-in and
check-out;
[0059] 2. communicate control information to the room lock
mechanism 106 and other room lock mechanisms (not shown);
[0060] 3. exchange information concerning reservations (e.g., hotel
reservations, or restaurant reservations) and reservation
confirmations with the hotel reservation system 110;
[0061] 4. use the gaming devices 104 and/or the wireless terminal
108 to provide one or more offers to players operating the gaming
devices 104 and/or the wireless terminal 108, and to receive
responses from the players to the one or more offers provided to
the players; and/or
[0062] 5. exchange data with other devices which are not shown
concerning transactions chargeable to hotel patrons' room accounts,
including restaurant charges, room service charges, telephone
charges, and charges for other products and services provided by
the hotel to hotel patrons.
[0063] The computer program code required to implement the above
functions (and the other functions described herein) can be easily
developed by a person of ordinary skill in the art, and is not
described in detail herein. The casino server 200 may include any
peripheral devices (e.g., telephone keypads, handsets, headsets,
microphones, speakers, keyboards, computer displays, etc.) required
to implement the above functionality. The program 206 also may
include program elements such as an operating system, a database
management system, and device drivers that allow the processor 201
to interface with computer peripheral devices (e.g., a video
display, a keyboard, a computer mouse, etc.).
[0064] Note that instructions of the program 206 may be read into a
main memory (not shown) of the processor 201 from a computer
readable medium other than the data storage device 204, such as
from a ROM or from a RAM. While execution of sequences of
instructions in the program 206 causes the processor 201 to perform
the process steps described herein, hard-wired circuitry may be
used in place of, or in combination with software instructions for
implementation of the processes of the present invention. Thus,
embodiments of the present invention are not limited to any
specific combination of hardware and software. The processor 201
also may be in communication with a clock 216 that supplies time
and date information to the processor 201 and/or controls the
timing of operations of the processor 201. The clock 216 may be a
clock external to the processor 201, as indicated, or may
alternatively be a clock internal to the processor 201 or a clock
embodied within the program 206 (e.g., based on a system clock
which is not shown).
[0065] The casino server 200 could be implemented as two or more
interconnected servers, such as a slot server and a hotel
server.
[0066] 2.2. Gaming Device
[0067] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of one or more of
the gaming devices 104 of FIG. 1. The gaming device 300 may have
all of the components of a conventional gaming device such as a
slot machine or a video poker machine. The schematic diagram of
FIG. 3 is somewhat simplified, and it accordingly should be
understood that conventional gaming device components may be
present notwithstanding that such components are not explicitly
indicated in FIG. 3.
[0068] The gaming device 300 may include various well-known devices
that allow wagering, including slot machines. Well-known examples
of slot machines include, without limitation, mechanical slot
machines, video slot machines, video poker machines, video
blackjack machines, video keno machines, video bingo machines,
pachinko machines, and video lottery terminals. The gaming device
300 may be implemented as a dedicated hardware circuit, an
appropriately programmed general-purpose computer, or any other
appropriate device including, without limitation, electronic,
mechanical or electromechanical devices. Accordingly, the gaming
device need not include the various exemplary components depicted
in FIG. 3.
[0069] With reference to FIG. 3, the gaming device 300 comprises a
processor 301, such as one or more conventional microprocessors
(e.g., one or more INTEL.RTM. PENTIUM.RTM. processors). The
processor 301 is in communication with a communications interface
302, through which the processor 301 communicates with the
above-described casino server 200. The communications interface 302
may also include a capability for wireless communication with,
e.g., telephones, personal digital assistants (PDAs), and the
like.
[0070] Although not shown in FIG. 3, there may be associated with
the processor 301 conventional volatile and/or non-volatile memory
that may function as program storage and/or working memory. The
gaming device 300 also includes a conventional currency receiver
304 which is in communication with the processor 301 and is adapted
to receive coins and/or bills and/or tokens. The gaming device 300
also includes conventional game functionality (indicated by block
306) which is associated with the processor 301 and may include
suitable software for displaying game indicia such as simulated
slot reels or representations of playing cards. The game
functionality 306 may also include a random number generator and/or
other elements required to generate a game outcome. The game
functionality 306 may also include mechanical components such as
conventional slot machine reels.
[0071] The gaming device 300 also includes a display 308 which is
driven by the processor 301. Under the control of the processor
301, the display 308 may display game indicia in accordance with
the game functionality 306.
[0072] The gaming device 300 also includes a player input device
310 that is in communication with the processor 301 and which may
include two or more separate devices. For example, the player input
device 310 may allow a player to indicate an amount of a wager and
to initiate a cycle of game play, such as a spin of mechanical or
simulated slot machine reels. Alternatively, in the case of a video
poker machine, the player input device 310 may allow the player to
select cards to be discarded. In one or more embodiments of the
invention, the player input device may permit the player to engage
in hotel transactions such as check-in or check-out and/or to enter
alphanumeric information. In the case that the display 308 is a
touch screen, the display 308 and the player input device 310 may
be integrated together.
[0073] The gaming device 300 also includes a conventional player
tracking card reader 312 which is in communication with the
processor 301. As is familiar to those who are skilled in the art,
the player tracking card reader 312 is adapted to have a player
tracking card interfaced therewith, and to read information from a
magnetic stripe on the player tracking card. The information read
from the player tracking card may include, for example, a player
identifier.
[0074] The gaming device 300 also includes a conventional hopper
controller 314 which is controlled by the processor 301, and which
controls dispensing of coins and/or tokens from a conventional
hopper (not separately shown) in response to awarding of a jackpot
and/or the player exercising a cash out option.
[0075] Also included in the gaming device 300, in one or more
embodiments, is a printer 316 which is driven by the processor 301,
and which may be used to print out items such as billing
statements, access code tickets and/or hotel information, offers or
coupons, or cashless gaming receipts (e.g., coupons representing
monetary value usable at gaming devices).
[0076] Also shown in FIG. 3 is a preferences button 318 connected
to the processor 301. In one or more embodiments of the invention,
actuation of the preferences button 318 by the player may initiate
a hotel transaction and/or an opportunity for the player to request
services or benefits from the hotel casino. It should be understood
that the preferences button 318 may be integrated with the display
308 (if the display is a touch screen) and/or with the player input
device 310.
[0077] In one or more embodiments, the gaming device 300 may also
include a conventional credit card reader 318. In accordance with
conventional practices, the credit card reader 318 may read data
such as a credit card account number from a credit card that is
interfaced to the credit card reader 318.
[0078] In some embodiments, the gaming device 300 may include a
card reader (not shown) that is configured to read both player
tracking cards and credit cards. In other embodiments, the gaming
device 300 may include one or more devices configured to receive
one or more of various well-known types of removable media,
including, without limitation, floppy disks, player tracking cards,
credit cards, debit cards, smart cards, flash memory cards,
multimedia cards, and memory sticks.
[0079] 2.3. Wireless Terminal
[0080] FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a wireless
terminal 108. The wireless terminal 400 comprises a processor 401,
such as one or more conventional microprocessors (e.g., one or more
INTEL.RTM. PENTIUM.RTM. processors). Although not separately shown,
there may be volatile memory and/or non-volatile memory associated
with the processor 401. Such memory may be used for program
storage, working memory, etc. There may also be one or more mass
storage devices, such as hard disks, included in the wireless
terminal 400.
[0081] The processor 401 is in communication with a communications
port 402, which enables the wireless terminal 400 to be in wireless
communication with the casino server 200. The communications port
402 may also include a capability for wireless communication with,
e.g., telephones, PDAs, and the like.
[0082] The wireless terminal 400 also includes a conventional
display 404 which is driven by the processor 401. Also included in
the wireless terminal 400 are one or more user input devices
(indicated by block 406) which may be conventional devices for
providing user input to the processor 401. If the display 404 is a
touch screen, then it will be appreciated that the display 404 and
the input device 406 may be integrated together.
[0083] The wireless terminal 400 also includes a conventional
player tracking card reader 408, which may be like the player
tracking card reader 312 discussed in connection with FIG. 3. The
player tracking card reader 408 reads information such as a player
identifier from a player tracking card and provides the information
to the processor 401. The wireless terminal 400 may also include a
conventional credit card reader 410. In accordance with
conventional practices, the credit card reader 410 may read data
such as a credit card account number from a credit card that is
interfaced to the credit card reader 410. The credit card reader
410 then provides the data to the processor 401. The wireless
terminal 400 may also include a printer, which is not shown. The
printer may print out information of the types described in
connection with the printer 316 of the gaming device 300 (FIG.
3).
[0084] In general, the wireless terminal 400 may have all of the
capabilities of the gaming device 300 except for gaming
capabilities. Accordingly, the wireless terminal 400, in
communication with the casino server 200, may be adapted to perform
hotel transactions such as check-in or check-out and/or may allow
the user to state preferences, request benefits or services from
the hotel, and/or to receive offers from the hotel. One or more
wireless terminals 400 may be placed at the front door of the
casino hotel and/or outside the casino hotel or at the curb, to
allow hotel guests to conveniently check in or check out of the
casino hotel. In some embodiments, the wireless terminal 400 may
resemble a conventional kiosk in appearance.
[0085] 2.4. Room Lock Mechanism
[0086] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of
the room lock mechanism 106. It will be appreciated that such a
room lock mechanism may be installed in or in association with the
door of each guest room of the casino hotel.
[0087] With reference to FIG. 5, the room lock mechanism 500
comprises a processor 501, such as one or more conventional
microprocessors (e.g., one or more INTEL.RTM. PENTIUM.RTM.
processors). Although not separately shown, the room lock mechanism
500 may also include volatile memory and/or non-volatile memory
associated with the processor 501. Such memory may be used for
program storage, working memory, etc. The processor 501 is in
communication with a communications port 502 through which the
processor 501 is in communication with the casino server 200.
[0088] The room lock mechanism 500 also preferably includes a
conventional player tracking card reader 504. The player tracking
card reader 504 is adapted to read information such as a player
identifier from a player tracking card interfaced to the player
tracking card reader 504. The player tracking card reader 504 then
provides the information to the processor 501. In accordance with
the present invention, the room lock mechanism 500 may operate so
that a player tracking card belonging to a player to whom the
respective room has been assigned may function as a room key. In
addition, or alternatively, entry of an access code may be required
to unlock the door. Accordingly, a display screen 506 and an
input/output device 508 may be included in the room lock mechanism
500. If the display 506 is a touch screen, the display 506 and the
input/output device 508 may be integrated together. The I/O device
508 may take the form of a simple pushbutton input or keypad to be
used in inputting an alphanumeric access code. In such a case, the
display 506 may be dispensed with.
[0089] The room lock mechanism 500 also includes a lock controller
510 which may be a conventional electromechanical device adapted to
selectively release the door lock (not separately shown) in
response to an instruction or actuation signal from the processor
501.
[0090] 3. Databases
[0091] Exemplary embodiments of the customer database 208, of the
room database 210, of the offer database 212 and of the reservation
database 214 (shown in association with the casino server 200 as
illustrated in FIG. 2) are shown in FIGS. 6-9, respectively. The
specific data and fields illustrated in these drawings represent
only one embodiment of the records stored in the databases of the
invention. The data and fields of these databases, as well as the
number of databases, can be readily modified, for example, to
include more or fewer data fields. A single database also may be
employed. Note that in the databases, a different reference numeral
is employed to identify each field of each database. However, in at
least one embodiment of the invention, fields that are similarly
named (e.g., player identifier fields) store similar or the same
data in a similar or in the same data format.
[0092] 3.1. Customer Database
[0093] FIG. 6 is a tabular representation of one embodiment of the
customer database 208 of FIG. 1. The player database 600 of FIG. 6
contains information related to players who have registered or
become members in a players' club or similar program sponsored by
the casino hotel served by the casino server 200. (Alternatively,
the players could be registered in or members of a players' club
sponsored by a group of casino hotels or another organization, and
participated in by the casino hotel served by the casino server
200.)
[0094] As shown in FIG. 6, a sample of the contents of the player
database 600 contains player information related to four players
identified in records 602-608, respectively. Specifically, for each
player, the player database 600 contains records having fields
corresponding to, for example, (1) a player identifier 610, used by
the casino server 200 to identify the player; (2) a player name
612; (3) a player mailing address 614; (4) a player e-mail address
616; (5) a credit card number 618 of the player; (6) theoretical
win data for a gaming session that the player is currently engaged
in (reference numeral 620); (7) data indicating a quantity of coins
or other tendered currency or currency equivalent inserted by the
player into a gaming device in the current gaming session
(reference numeral 622); (8) data indicating an amount that the
player has actually won or lost in the current gaming session
(reference numeral 624); (9) data indicating total theoretical win
information for the player over the course of all of the player's
gaming activity at the casino hotel (reference numeral 626); and
(10) an indication as to whether the player is currently checked
into the hotel (reference numeral 628).
[0095] Player identifiers may include identifiers, such as a
sequence of digits or a sequence of alphanumeric characters, that
uniquely identify a particular player. Player identifiers may
include, for example, a player tracking number and/or a credit card
account number. In one embodiment, a player identifier may be
recorded in a physical form such as by a player tracking card
and/or a credit card.
[0096] Although not shown in FIG. 6, the player database 600 could
include an additional field that stores, for each player, an
identifier of a gaming device that the player is currently playing.
It will be understood that there would be no entry in such a field
at times when the respective player is not currently playing a
gaming device. Other player information not shown in FIG. 6 that
may be stored within the player database includes player
preferences (e.g., non-smoking room), one or more player
identifiers corresponding to players or other individuals
associated with the player (e.g., family, friends, fellow tour
group members, or team members), and/or benefits that the casino
hotel customarily provides to the player (e.g., welcome fruit
basket in room because of the player's past or anticipated future
gaming activity). It will be appreciated that the data in fields
620-626 may be used by the casino hotel to "rate" the level of the
player's gaming activity to determine what complimentary benefits
("comps") the casino hotel may offer to the player. Other rating
information may also be included in the player database 600.
[0097] Note that the customer database 208 (and the room database
210, the offer database 212 and the reservation database 214) may
be populated with data provided to the casino server 200 via the
communications port 202, and that the data may be provided to the
casino server 200 from data entry terminals (not shown), from other
computer systems (not shown) and/or from the hotel reservation
system 110 (FIG. 1) and/or from any other source.
[0098] With reference to the player database 600 of FIG. 6, the
record 602 illustrates exemplary data for a player PL-901-902132
(player identifier 610) named Jane Thomas (player name 612) who
lives at 54 Rock Way (address 614). Jane Thomas' e-mail address is
JT@HOTMAIL.COM (e-mail address 616). Jane Thomas has a credit card
number 1234-5678-9123-4567 (credit card number 618). The rating
data in fields 620-626 indicates that Jane Thomas has a current
session theoretical win of $70.00, a current session coin in amount
of $1,000.00, a current session actual win of $80.00 and a
historical theoretical win amount of $220.00. Field 628 indicates
that Jane Thomas is not currently checked in to the hotel.
[0099] 3.2. Room Database
[0100] The room database 210 contains information related to rooms
in the hotel. FIG. 7 is a tabular representation 700 of the room
database 210. The tabular representation 700 of the room database
210 contains room information relating to five rooms that are
identified in records 702-710, respectively. (In practice, it will
be understood that the hotel is likely to have many more than the
five rooms recorded in the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 7.
There may be, for example, hundreds or thousands of rooms in the
hotel and recorded in the room database 210.) Specifically, for
each room, the tabular representation contains sample records
having fields corresponding to, for example, (1) a room identifier
712 that uniquely identifies the room; (2) a room type 714 (such as
standard, suite, luxury suite, villa, king bed, etc.); (3) a room
rate 716 which indicates a standard or "rack" rate charged for one
night's stay in the room; (4) an indication as to whether the room
is a smoking room or a nonsmoking room (reference numeral 718); (5)
an indication of the "status" of the room (i.e., whether the room
is occupied or unoccupied; that is whether the room is currently
assigned to a hotel guest; reference numeral 720); and (6) an
access code 722 that is currently assigned to the room lock
mechanism 500 for the room to control unlocking of the room lock
mechanism 500. Additional fields that may be included in the room
database 210, but are not shown, might be the physical room number
(i.e., the number which appears on the door of the room), a player
identifier field to indicate a player to whom the room is currently
assigned and/or an indication as to whether the room is suitably
equipped to accommodate handicapped hotel guests.
[0101] Room identifiers may include identifiers such as, without
limitation, a sequence of digits or a sequence of alphanumeric
characters, that uniquely identify a particular room. In one
embodiment, a player identifier may be recorded in a physical form
such as by a player tracking card and/or a credit card.
[0102] Access codes may include, for example, a sequence of digits
or a sequence of alphanumeric characters that grants a player
access to his hotel room. In one embodiment, the room access code
may be generated and stored on the casino server. In addition, upon
generating the room access code, the casino server may transmit the
code to the player's hotel room locking mechanism so that the
player is required to input the code at the hotel room door in
order to gain access to his or her hotel room. A room access code
may also refer to a code specified or generated by a player or
entity other than a casino server. For example, a player may be
prompted to indicate a room access code, or a gaming device may
generate a room access code. In some embodiments, the room access
code is not an alphanumeric code. For example, a room access code
may be based on biometric information about a player (e.g., a
fingerprint, or a retinal scan). The depicted fields of FIG. 7, for
example the various room identifiers and room access codes, are for
illustration only. Various other forms of identifiers and codes are
described herein and still others will be readily apparent to those
of skill in the art.
[0103] 3.3. Offer Database
[0104] The offer database 212 contains information related to
offers that may be communicated from the casino server 200 to
players via the gaming device 300 and/or the wireless terminal 400.
FIG. 8 illustrates a tabular representation 800 of the offer
database 212. As shown in FIG. 8, the tabular representation 800 of
the offer database 212 contains information for six offers
identified in records 802-812, respectively. Specifically, for each
offer, the tabular representation 800 contains sample records
having fields corresponding to, for example, (1) an offer
identifier 812 that identifies the offer; and (2) an offer
description 814 that describes the offer. Possible offers may
include, but are not limited to, one or more of: a free shoe shine,
gaming credits (e.g., for use at one or more of the gaming device
300), a complimentary copy of a newspaper, free soft drinks from
the room refrigerator, a coupon for a hotel restaurant, a free room
upgrade, and improved payouts or odds or other benefits associated
with game play in the gaming device 300 (e.g., jackpots pay double
for a certain time period). The offer database 212 may include
additional fields, which are not shown, such as a description of
what the player has to do to qualify for the offer (e.g., check in
and/or check out using a gaming device 300 or the wireless terminal
400; engage in gaming activity with a gaming device 300 for a
certain period of time, or wager a certain amount of money during
gaming activity at a gaming device 300; defer checking in to a room
for which the player has a reservation; check out early from a room
that has been assigned to the player; relinquish a room that has
been assigned to the player or relinquish a room reservation;
purchase a meal or a drink at a hotel restaurant or bar; defer,
limit or eliminate cleaning of the player's room; move to another,
commonly-owned hotel).
[0105] 3.4. Reservation Database
[0106] The reservation database 214 contains information related to
room reservations made by players or other hotel patrons. It will
be appreciated that some or all of the room reservations may have
been made through the hotel reservation system 110 (FIG. 1). FIG. 9
illustrates a tabular representation 900 of the reservation
database 214. As shown in FIG. 9, the tabular representation 900 of
the reservation database 214 contains information for four
reservations identified by records 902-908, respectively.
Specifically, for each room reservation, the tabular representation
900 contains sample records having fields corresponding to, for
example, (1) a reservation identifier 910 that identifies the room
reservation; (2) a room identifier 912 that identifies a room that
has been assigned to satisfy the reservation; (3) a player
identifier 914 that identifies a player who made the reservation;
(4) a check-in date 916; and (5) a check-out date 918. Other fields
that may be included in the reservation database 214 but which are
not shown, include a confirmation number, a credit card account
number to which charges for the room are to be applied, the
physical room number (i.e., the number of the room which appears on
the door of the room), fields for requested room characteristics,
such as room type, smoking/non-smoking, handicap accessible, etc.,
and possibly additional information concerning the player,
including name, address, etc. The reservation database 214 may also
include accounting fields which record all transactions and/or
charges that are chargeable to the player's room account, such as
room charges, meals, room service and other services or items
ordered by the player and charged to the player's room account.
Alternatively, such accounting fields may be included in the room
database 210, or in a separate database (not shown) which is
accessible by at least one of the room identifier, the reservation
identifier and the player identifier.
[0107] 4. Processes
[0108] FIGS. 10A-10B together form a flow chart of an exemplary
process 1000 performed by the system 100 of FIGS. 1-9 in connection
with an automated hotel check-in operation. The process 1000 may be
embodied within computer program code of the program 206 of the
casino server 200 and may comprise a computer program product.
[0109] With reference to FIG. 10A, the process 1000 begins in step
1002, at which a player identifier is received via a gaming device
300. This may occur, for example, by a player interfacing (swiping
or inserting) his player tracking card into the player tracking
card reader 312 (FIG. 3) of the gaming device 300. Alternatively,
the player may communicate the player identifier to the gaming
device 300 by wireless communication via a hand-held device such as
a PDA, a cellular telephone, or a notebook computer. As another
alternative, the gaming device 300 may be equipped with a credit
card reader (not shown) and the player identifier (or alternatively
a credit card account number) may be entered into the gaming device
300 by interfacing the player's credit card or debit card with the
credit card reader. The player identifier or credit card number
could also be entered by the player typing into a keyboard or touch
screen, or by speaking into a microphone. Alternatively, the player
identifier may comprise biometric data (e.g., a fingerprint, a
voice print, or a retinal scan) input via an appropriate biometric
device (not shown). Once the player identifier or credit card
number has been entered into the gaming device 300, the player
identifier or credit card number is communicated from the gaming
device 300 to the casino server 200 and the player database 600 is
accessed to retrieve the record for the player. The reservation
database 214 may also be accessed to determine whether the player
is holding a room reservation. In response to the entry of the
player identifier, the gaming device 300, upon suitable direction
from the casino server 200, may present a personalized greeting to
the player.
[0110] As another alternative, the reservation database 215 may not
be accessed unless and until the player selects a check-in option
(as indicated at step 1004 (FIG. 10A)). The hotel check-in option
may be selected in response to a suitable prompt presented to the
player via the display 308 (FIG. 3) of the gaming device 300. If
the hotel check-in option is not selected, then other functions
(step 1006, FIG. 10A), such as conventional gaming activity, may
take place. If the hotel check-in option is selected, and if the
reservation database 214 was not previously accessed, then the
casino server 200 accesses the reservation database (step 1008) in
response to selection of the hotel check-in option. It is then
determined (step 1010) whether a room reservation for the player is
stored in the reservation database 214. If so, then the casino
server 200 may instruct the gaming device 300 to display to the
player, via the display 308 of the gaming device 300, reservation
data (step 1012). For example, the reservation information may be
presented as a reservation confirmation page, such as an electronic
display of information regarding the player's reservation of a
hotel room. In other embodiments, the gaming device 300 may print a
representation of reservation information (e.g., using the printer
316). The reservation information may, for example, include all of
the reservation information customarily provided on a hotel
registration card (e.g., the player's name, address, credit card
number, and/or e-mail address) plus additional data such as dates
of check-in and check-out, room characteristics, etc. The player
may then be prompted to review the reservation data (e.g., as
displayed on a reservation confirmation page) and to indicate
whether the information contained therein is correct. If it is
determined (step 1014) that the player has indicated that the
information is not correct, then the player may be prompted to
enter corrected information (step 1016). The player may enter the
corrected information via the player input device 310 (FIG. 3) of
the gaming device 300, which may, as noted above, be a touch screen
(display 308).
[0111] After an indication that the reservation confirmation page
is correct, or after correction of the reservation data, the casino
server 200 may instruct the gaming device 300 to display to the
player via the display 308 of the gaming device 300 preferences
data (step 1018, FIG. 10B), such as various preference options or
other information, from which the player may select preferred
features and services in connection with the player's hotel
stay.
[0112] In some embodiments, preferences information may be
represented to a player as an electronic display. An exemplary
preferences page 1100 is illustrated in FIG. 11. In accordance with
one or more embodiments, the preferences page is a menu or form
presented to a player to display hotel offers and/or features,
products, and/or services that may be selected by the player in
connection with the player's hotel stay. Exemplary preference
options for food, entertainment, literature, hotel room and hotel
cleaning are depicted.
[0113] Not all of the information depicted in FIG. 11 is required,
and various substitutions, deletions and other changes to the
representation will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill
in the art. For example, the literature category may not be used in
some embodiments. The depicted fields, for example, the depicted
options within each category, are for illustration only. Various
other forms of categories and options are described herein and
still others will be readily apparent to those of skill in the art.
Further, other arrangements of preference categories and options
will be readily appreciated by those of skill in the art.
[0114] In connection with selection of preferences, the gaming
device 300 may present to the player an image (actual or simulated)
of a room or a type of room that the player may select. Such an
image may be a still image (e.g., a photograph) or a moving image
(e.g., a video, or an animated depiction). The player may then be
prompted to select his preferences from the preferences page.
Selection of preferences by the player is represented by step 1020.
The player may also be permitted to enter additional or
supplemental preferences in text form.
[0115] Considering again step 1010 (FIG. 10A) if it is found that
the player does not have a reservation, then the player is prompted
to input data required to allow the player to check in. Such data
may include the player's desired length of stay (i.e., the player's
desired check-out date) and room preferences such as room type,
smoking/non-smoking, etc. The inputting of the room selection data
is represented by step 1022 in FIG. 10A. At this step, registration
information such as the player's name, address and credit card
number may be retrieved automatically from the player database 600.
Alternatively, some or all of this information may be entered by
the player via the player input device 310 of the gaming device
300. Following entry and/or retrieval of room selection data are
the previously described steps of presenting and selecting from the
preferences information (steps 1018 and 1020).
[0116] Next, the casino server 200 assigns a room to the player
(step 1024, FIG. 10B) in accordance with either the reservation
information (possibly collected at step 1016, FIG. 10A) or in
accordance with the room selection data collected at step 1022. The
assignment of a room to the player may entail the casino server 200
populating the room identifier field 912 (FIG. 9) of the record of
the reservation database 214 corresponding to the player with a
particular room identifier that corresponds to an unoccupied room
that satisfies the room characteristics desired by the player. In
this way, it will be appreciated that the room identifier for the
assigned room is associated with the player identifier
corresponding to the player to whom the room is assigned. In
addition, the corresponding record for the assigned room in the
room database 210 (FIG. 7) may be modified such that the entry in
the status field 720 is changed from "unoccupied" to "occupied". If
the room database 210 includes a player identifier field (not
shown) then the player identifier of the player to whom the room
has been assigned may be entered into the player identifier field
for the record corresponding to the room that has been
assigned.
[0117] If there are no rooms available that match the player's
preferences, but other rooms are available, the player may be
invited via the gaming device 300 to change his or her preferences
to match an available room. Room assignment may then take
place.
[0118] Referring once again to FIG. 10B, after assignment of the
room to the player, the casino server 200 may generate an access
code (step 1026) to be used to control operation of the room lock
mechanism 500 for the assigned room. In one embodiment, the casino
server may randomly generate a room access code. This may be done
each time a room is assigned, such that a unique code is generated
for each player's stay in the hotel. Such a randomly generated
access code would be very difficult for a would-be thief to guess
or predict. As an alternative, the room access code may be
determined through cryptographic encoding of information related to
the player, such as the player identifier. In another embodiment,
the casino server 200 may retrieve the predetermined access code
that has previously been assigned to the room and is stored in the
room database 210. Assuming that the access code has been randomly
or cryptographically generated, or otherwise generated specifically
for the player's stay in the hotel, the access code may be entered
into the access code field 722 (FIG. 7) of the record which
corresponds to the assigned room. In this way, the room access code
is associated with the room identifier for the assigned room.
[0119] Referring once more to FIG. 10B, in step 1028, the casino
server 200 causes the gaming device 300 to communicate to the
player information regarding the room assignment. This information
may include, for example, the physical room number for the assigned
room. Also included in the room assignment information may be the
access code to be entered by the player into the room lock
mechanism 500 to unlock the door of the assigned room. The
information provided to the player at this time may also include a
map of the hotel and/or directions to the assigned room. The room
assignment information may be displayed on the display 308 of the
gaming device 300 and/or may be printed out by the printer 316 of
the gaming device 300. It may be especially advantageous to print
out the access code for the player, so that the player is not
required to memorize the access code. In addition, or
alternatively, the player may be informed that the player's player
tracking card may be used as a room key. The physical number of the
assigned room may also be printed out by the printer 316 of the
gaming device 300.
[0120] If one or more other individuals will be occupying the room
with the player, the casino server 200 may cause the gaming device
300 to prompt the player to provide information for identifying any
other players with whom the player is associated (e.g., family,
friends, hotel roommates, fellow tour group members, or team
members). For example, the gaming device 300 may prompt the player
to interface to the gaming device 300 the player tracking cards of
the other individuals so that they may be identified as other
occupants of the room and enabled to use their player tracking
cards as room keys. Or, if necessary, the player may be instructed
to obtain additional player tracking cards for the other
individuals.
[0121] Then, in step 1030, the casino server 200 transmits to the
room lock mechanism 500 for the assigned room data that is to be
used by the room lock mechanism 500 in determining that the door to
the assigned room is to be unlocked. For example, the transmitted
data may include both the player identifier for the player to whom
the room is assigned and the access code that was generated in step
1026. As referred to herein and in the appended claims,
transmitting the player identifier to the room lock mechanism 500
may include transmitting to the room lock mechanism 500 only a
portion (e.g., the last n digits) of the player identifier. Based
upon the transmitted data, the room lock mechanism 500 for the
assigned room may operate such that the room door is unlocked upon
the player interfacing his or her player tracking card to the
player tracking card reader 504 (FIG. 5) of the room lock mechanism
500, plus entry via the input/output device 508 of the access code.
For example, the room lock mechanism 500 may read the player
identifier from the player tracking card and compare the read
player identifier with the player identifier data transmitted to
the room lock mechanism 500 by the casino server 200. If the read
player identifier and the transmitted player identifier match, and
the proper access code has been entered, the room lock is
opened.
[0122] Alternatively, only one of interfacing the player tracking
card and entry of the access code may be required to unlock the
door. In another embodiment of the invention, no access code is
used, and only interfacing of the player tracking card to the
player tracking card reader 504 is required to unlock the door. In
this embodiment, the input/output device 508 and the display screen
506 may be omitted from the room lock mechanism 500. In another
embodiment, the player tracking card is not used as a room key and
entry to the room is obtained by entering the access code into the
input/output device 508 of the room lock mechanism 500. In this
case, the player tracking card reader 504 may be omitted from the
room lock mechanism 500.
[0123] It is also contemplated that the access code may be
transmitted to the room lock mechanism 500 by being magnetically
written on the player tracking card by the gaming device 300 and
then read by the player tracking card reader 504 of the room lock
mechanism 500. In such an arrangement, the player tracking card
reader 312 (FIG. 3) of the gaming device 300 may be provided with a
magnetic writing capability.
[0124] According to other embodiments of the invention, the room
lock mechanism 500 need not be in communication with the casino
server 200 and need not be electronic. The room lock mechanism 500
could be operable, for example, by a conventional mechanical or
data-based key, which could be provided to the player by a hotel
representative.
[0125] Upon completion of the check-in process of FIGS. 10A-10B,
the player may proceed with conventional gaming activity on the
gaming device 300.
[0126] If, at the time the player wishes to check in, no rooms are
currently available, the player may be placed on a waiting list
maintained by the casino server 200. When a room becomes available
for the player, he or she may be so advised via a gaming device 300
which the player is playing. Check-in may then occur as described
in connection with FIGS. 10A-10B.
[0127] FIG. 12 is a flow chart of an exemplary process of the
system 100 of FIGS. 1-9 in connection with a check-out operation.
The process 1200 may be embodied with computer program code of the
program 206 of the casino server 200 and may comprise a computer
program product. Initially in the process 1200, at step 1202, a
player identifier is received via a gaming device 300. As described
in connection with step 1002 (FIG. 10A), receiving of the player
identifier may occur by the player interfacing his or her player
card to the player tracking card reader 312 (FIG. 3.) of the gaming
device 300 and by allowing the gaming device 300 to read the player
identifier from the player tracking card. Alternatively, the player
identifier may be wirelessly transmitted to the gaming device 300
via a hand-held device carried by the player, as also described
above in connection with step 1002. After the player identifier is
received, the player may be given the option to select a check-out
procedure. This may be done by displaying a suitable message on the
display 308 (FIG. 3) of the gaming device 300. If it is determined
that the player has not selected the check-out option (step 1204,
FIG. 12) then other functions (step 1206) may be performed, such as
conventional gaming activities.
[0128] If the check-out option is selected in step 1204, then the
casino server 200 may access the reservation database 214 (step
1208). As noted before, the reservation database 214 may include
accounting fields, which are not shown, to record all transactions
and/or charges that are chargeable to the player's room.
Alternatively, such information may be stored in the room database
210, in fields that are not shown, or in a separate database, that
is not shown, in which room charges are stored. In any case, the
casino server 200 retrieves billing information reflecting all
charges attributable to the player's stay at the hotel. The casino
server 200 then instructs the gaming device 300 to present the
billing information to the player (step 1210). For example, the
billing information may be displayed on the display 308 (FIG. 3) of
the gaming device 300. The player may then be prompted to indicate
whether he or she approves of the billing information. A
determination as to whether the player has indicated approval of
the billing information is made in step 1212. If the player
indicates disapproval of the billing information, then the casino
server 200 may cause the gaming device 300 to display a message
indicating that the player should seek assistance with check-out at
the hotel registration desk (step 1214).
[0129] In some embodiments, the player may be given the opportunity
to have one or more items removed from the bill in return for one
or more of: (a) playing the gaming device 300 (and/or any other
gaming device) for a certain period of time; (b) wagering a certain
amount; (c) agreeing to accept a reduced payout or less favorable
odds in future game play; (d) making a future reservation at the
hotel; (e) agreeing to dine at a hotel restaurant; (f) accepting a
cross-subsidy/third party offer; (g) agreeing to establish a
certain threshold credit balance at the gaming device 300; and (h)
answering one or more survey questions. Of course, the player need
not disapprove of the item to be removed, or of any item on the
bill, in order to receive such an offer. Items may also be removed
at times other than at check-out. Credits and/or discounts may also
be earned that are not related to any particular item or items on
the bill, and/or that do not correspond to the removal of an item
or items from the bill. For example, the player may earn a $5
discount or credit applied to the total bill.
[0130] If in step 1212 it is determined that the player has
indicated approval of the billing information, then check-out can
be automatically completed. In such a case, the casino server 200
instructs the gaming device 300 to print out an itemized check-out
statement (step 1216) via the printer 316 (FIG. 3) of the gaming
device 300. In addition, as indicated in step 1218, the casino
server 200 may update its databases to indicate that the player has
checked out of his assigned room. For example, the record
corresponding to the assigned room may be modified by changing the
entry in the status field 720 (FIG. 7) from "occupied" to
"unoccupied". Also, concerning the reservation database 214, the
record corresponding to the player's reservation and hotel stay may
be purged from the database and suitable information may be stored
in an archival database, which is not shown. Furthermore, a billing
database (not shown) may be updated to cause the player's hotel
stay to be charged to the player's credit card account.
[0131] Upon completion of the check-out process of FIG. 12, the
player may proceed with conventional gaming activity on the gaming
device 300.
[0132] Although the check-in process of FIGS. 10A-10B and the
check-out process of FIG. 12 have been described in connection with
a player interacting with a gaming device 300, it should be
understood that those processes may alternatively be performed in
conjunction with a player interacting with the wireless terminal
108 (FIG. 1).
[0133] 5. Additional Embodiments
[0134] It is contemplated to modify the check-in process of FIGS.
10A-10B and/or the check-out process of FIG. 12 so as to include
interaction between the player and hotel personnel. In some
embodiments, at any time after the player identifier is received
(step 1002), a hotel representative may be signaled to assist the
player with check-in. For example, the casino server 200 may signal
the hotel representative via a wireless terminal carried by the
hotel representative, or via a visible or audible signal (e.g., via
a display at a workstation manned by the hotel representative). In
another example, the gaming device 300 could emit a visible or
audible signal (such as a flashing light) to call a hotel
representative to assist the player. The hotel representative could
meet with the player at the gaming device 300 and assist the player
with check-in via the gaming device 300 and/or the wireless
terminal. Similarly, when check-out is desired, as indicated at
step 1204 of FIG. 12, a hotel representative could be signaled to
go to the gaming device 300 to assist the player with
check-out.
[0135] The player, for example, could be permitted to confirm a
reservation with the hotel representative, to indicate preferences,
and/or to approve check-out information. The player may be able to
sign a corresponding document printed out by the gaming device 300
or provided by a hotel representative, and provide the signed
document to the hotel representative as part of a check-in or
check-out process. A hotel representative could receive a room key
from, or deliver a room key to, the player. In some alternative
embodiments, a porter may be signaled to come to the gaming device
300 to pick up the player's luggage and/or escort the player to his
room, or to remove the player's luggage from the room.
[0136] As still another alternative, test input/display, a
microphone and headset arrangement and/or a video display at the
gaming device 300 might be used to allow the player to communicate
with a remotely-located hotel representative for the purpose of
check-in or check-out.
[0137] The player could be allowed to provide a communication
address (e.g., telephone number, an email address, or a pager
number) at which the player could receive a message or reminder
from the hotel. For example, the player could provide a cellular
telephone number. The hotel could call the number, for example,
when the player's room is ready. Alternatively, the player could be
provided with a pager that would be used to inform the player, for
example, when his room is ready, or when a hotel representative is
available to assist the player with check-in or check-out.
[0138] In addition to, or instead of the check-in and check-out
processes described above, the player may interact with the gaming
device 300 in regard to other transactions related to his or her
hotel stay and/or in other ways that do not involve gaming
activity.
[0139] In some embodiments, the gaming device 300 and the casino
server 200 may be operated as a messaging or communication system.
For example, the player may be permitted to retrieve and manage
telephone messages via a gaming device 300. If such an option is to
be provided, it will be understood that a conventional voice mail
system (not shown) may be interfaced to the casino server 200. When
the player receives or has received a telephone message, an
indication thereof is provided from the voice mail system to the
casino server 200. The casino server 200 then instructs a gaming
device 300 with which the player is engaged in gaming activity to
display a message or an icon or other indication to inform the
player that he or she has a phone message. By selecting the icon or
with another suitable input, the player may instruct the gaming
device to retrieve and reproduce the phone message. The phone
message may be transmitted from the voice mail system to the casino
server 200 and then converted from speech to text. Then the
resulting text can be displayed to the player via the gaming device
300. Alternatively, the phone message may be transmitted from the
casino server 200 to the gaming device 300 in the form of a voice
file, and the voice file may be audibly reproduced via a
loudspeaker (not shown) or a headset (not shown) provided at the
gaming device 300.
[0140] In similar fashion, the player may be allowed to manage,
retrieve and/or send messages (e.g., electronic mail, instant text
messages, discussion forum postings, bulletin board postings) via
the gaming device 300. For example, a player may post a message on
a virtual bulletin board operated by the casino server 200. Other
players may access the bulletin board via a gaming device and view
the posted message. In some embodiments, only associated players
(e.g., family members, roommates, or fellow members of a tour
group) may view the message.
[0141] In another example, players may be allowed to locate each
other and/or to send text messages to each other. For instance, a
player may be able to request information about the location (or
approximate location) of a particular player or group of players or
about recent activity of such players, and/or may request any
messages by such players. Alternatively, the casino server 200 may
automatically provide such information or messages to the player
based on the player's preferences. The casino server 200 may be
able to approximate a location of an associated player or determine
activities of an associated player based on the associated player's
use of a corresponding credit card or player tracking card (e.g.,
at a restaurant, at a gaming device 300, or at a gift shop). This
information may enable the casino server 200 to locate an
associated player at a particular gaming device 300, or in a
particular part of the casino, and provide an indication of the
associated player's location to the inquiring player at a gaming
device 300. The casino server 200 could then provide an indication
of the approximate location and/or activity to the inquiring player
at a gaming device 300.
[0142] In some embodiments, the gaming device 300 and the casino
server 200 may be operated as a scheduling system. The player may
be permitted to store, retrieve, and manage appointments via a
gaming device 300. Personal information managers, organizers, and
scheduling applications are well known to those having ordinary
skill in the art and may be configured to allow for interaction
with a user via a gaming device 300. A scheduling system may be
integrated with or separate from a messaging system such as
described above. In one example, the player may indicate via the
scheduling system that he plans to eat dinner from 6 p.m. until 7
p.m., and then plans to play slot machines from 7 p.m. until 8 p.m.
In some embodiments, the player may receive recommendations and/or
offers related to appointments scheduled by the player. For
example, the player may request via a gaming device 300 a
suggestion on where to eat during his planned dinner period, and
may indicate further information and/or preferences, such as a
preferred type of cuisine, a number of people in his dinner party,
and an estimated amount to be spent on dinner. The casino server
200 and/or a hotel representative may search a database of
restaurants and/or offers in order to identify one or more
recommendations and/or offers based on the player's request. For
example, the player may receive via the gaming device 300 an offer
for four entrees for the price of three entrees at a hotel
restaurant.
[0143] In some embodiments, the player may request suggestions for
activities or events to do during periods of time in which no
appointments are scheduled. For example, the player may indicate
via a gaming device 300 that the player wishes to receive a
suggestion for an activity between 8 p.m. and 11 p.m. at which
smoking is not permitted. The casino server 200 and/or a hotel
representative may search a database of activities and/or offers in
order to identify one or more events meeting the player's
requirements. For example, the player may receive via the gaming
device 300 an offer to attend a show, or to participate in a bingo
game in a smoke-free room.
[0144] In some embodiments, the casino server 200 and/or the gaming
device 300 may provide one or more offers for unscheduled time
without receiving a request from the player. In one or more
embodiments, the player may access the scheduling system via a Web
server operated by the hotel, for example, prior to or during the
player's stay at the hotel.
[0145] Players operating the gaming device 300 may also be
permitted to transmit messages via the gaming devices to request
various services and/or benefits from the casino hotel. For
example, a player may transmit a message via a gaming device 300
(by using the player input device 310, FIG. 3, of the gaming device
300) to request the hotel housekeeping staff to clean the player's
room.
[0146] Moreover, the casino server 200 may employ the displays 308
of the gaming device 300 to communicate messages to particular ones
of the players operating the gaming device 300. One such message
could be, "Mr. Smith, your room number 336 is now ready." Other
messages may communicate offers made by the hotel to the players.
For example, the casino server 200 could offer compensation (such
as gaming credit to be employed on the gaming device 300) to a
player to switch rooms (e.g., from a non-smoking to a smoking room,
in the event that there is a shortage of non-smoking rooms). The
player's response to the offer may be provided via the player input
device 310 (FIG. 3) of the gaming device 300.
[0147] The player may be offered a benefit, such as a certain
amount of gaming credit for use at gaming machine 104, in exchange
for using the gaming machine 104 for check-in or check-out. Such an
offer may lead a player to use a gaming machine 104 for check-out
instead of using in-room check-out. Consequently the player may
engage in a visit to a gaming machine and in gaming activity at the
gaming machine which would not otherwise have occurred.
[0148] Alternatively, the casino server 200 may offer the player a
benefit for checking out of his or her room early. Another type of
offer would provide a benefit to a player for delaying check-in, or
delaying occupancy of the room.
[0149] As still another sort of offer, the casino server 200 may
inquire of a player at a gaming device 300 whether the player is
willing to relinquish his or her room entirely for the night. Such
an inquiry may be made to a player who has already stayed up late
(say until 3 a.m.) and who may wish to forego sleeping that
night.
[0150] As another possible offer, the casino server 200 may inquire
of the player whether the player is willing to move to another
hotel (e.g., to a hotel under common ownership with the hotel
served by the casino server 200).
[0151] The player may also be offered a benefit for waiving some or
all of the customary cleaning services for the player's room.
[0152] In any or all of the above offers, the benefit to be
provided to the player may include one or more gaming credits,
cashless gaming receipts, cash payments, free goods or services
(such as free meals, free room service, free room stays), discounts
on room stays or other goods or services, discounts or free goods
or services to be provided at subsequent visits to the casino
hotel, players' club points and so forth. Other benefits that may
be provided to players in conjunction with offers from the casino
server 200 may relate to game play on a gaming device 300. Such
benefits may include an increased payout for certain gaming
outcomes (e.g., double payout for a royal flush on a video poker
machine), or improved odds of favorable outcomes, or other
advantages in game play.
[0153] One or more benefits may be provided to the player if the
player answers a survey by using the gaming device 300 or the
wireless terminal 400. Survey questions could include the player's
planned length of stay, preferred entertainment (e.g., shopping,
sports, shows), occupation, planned activities/interests, etc. The
results of the survey could be used to select and/or tailor offers
to be made to the player.
[0154] The gaming device 300 could be caused to operate such that
certain game outcomes result in a free stay in a hotel room, a
discount on the room rate, or a free room upgrade. For example,
room upgrades may be provided as prizes for certain game outcomes
when a relatively large number of more desirable rooms are not
reserved or occupied on a given night.
[0155] Selection by the casino server 200 of particular players to
receive offers, or determination of an order in which players are
to receive offers, may be based upon a "rating" of the player which
is intended to predict a likelihood that the player would accept
the offer. The "rating" of the player may be determined by the
casino server based on information regarding the player that is
stored in the casino server, or may be inputted by casino employees
based on observations of the player by the casino employees. For
example, if a casino employee observes that a particular player is
relatively young and appears interested in gambling all night, the
casino employee may input a high rating for the player to receive
an offer to relinquish his or her room for the night. Similarly, if
the casino server 200 detects that a player has been continuously
playing one of the gaming device 300 from 10 p.m. until 2 a.m., the
player may be given a high rating by the casino server 200 for an
offer that the player relinquish his or her room.
[0156] The server 102 may also offer benefits to players contingent
on the player engaging in certain amounts of gaming activity on one
or more gaming devices 104. For example, the player may be offered
a free stay in a hotel room or a free room upgrade if the player
plays for three hours on the gaming device 300, or if the player
bets a certain amount over time on the gaming device 300. In
connection with such an offer, an image (actual or simulated) of
the offered room may be provided. Other types of benefits, such as
free products or services, may be provided.
[0157] The player may also be permitted to apply gaming credits in
the gaming device 300, including credits won, to payment of items
on the player's hotel account, such as room charges, restaurant
meal charges, room service, etc.
[0158] Another type of benefit that may be provided to a player in
response to gaming activity, using the gaming device 300 for
check-in or check-out or acceptance of an offer may be entries in
sweepstakes for various benefits, including free room stays or room
upgrades. Sweepstakes entries, and/or awards of prizes, may be
awarded for playing at a gaming device 300 for a certain amount of
time, or at a certain point in time, or for wagering a particular
amount. Such incentives may lead players to increase their gaming
activity at the gaming device 300.
[0159] The player may be permitted to use the gaming device 300 or
the wireless terminal 400 for other purposes relating to his or her
room, such as requesting delivery of the player's luggage to his or
her room or removal of luggage from his or her room. The player may
also be allowed to indicate via a gaming device 300 that his or her
room is not to be entered by cleaning staff at certain times.
Alternatively, the player might be permitted to register a
complaint via input provided by the player through the gaming
device 300.
[0160] Some hotels may require that a guest provide a deposit at
check-in or during a hotel stay for a room and/or for products or
services associated with the room. In some embodiments, a player
may use a gaming device 300 to provide a deposit for a room and/or
for the use of hotel amenities (e.g., a telephone, an in-room
entertainment system, a room safe, a video cassette recorder, or a
game console). A player may be prompted to insert an amount of
funds (e.g., cash, or gaming tokens) at the game device to cover a
deposit, or to approve the billing of a deposit amount to a
financial account (e.g., credit card account) associated with the
player. In some embodiments, the player may be permitted to satisfy
an obligation in lieu of providing a deposit amount. For example,
in an offer to a player to waive or otherwise satisfy a deposit, a
hotel may require that a player play at a gaming device 300 for a
predetermined amount of time, or that the player wager a
predetermined amount at a gaming device 300. A deposit may be
credited to a player's bill at check-out or at any time. Also, a
deposit amount may be returned/refunded to the player at a gaming
device 300 during check-out or at any time.
[0161] A player may also be permitted to use a gaming device 300 to
make reservations for future stays at the casino hotel. The player
may be accorded benefits for making such a reservation, such as
gaming credit that may be made available immediately on the gaming
device 300, or that may be made available upon the future visit to
the casino hotel. The player may also be permitted to cancel a
reservation at a competing casino hotel, and may be provided with
one or more benefits for so doing. An offer made to a player to
switch from a competing hotel may be based on the room rate at the
competing hotel. For example, one or more terms of the offer,
and/or whether or not the offer is made, may be based on the room
rate. The offer may include assistance in moving from the competing
hotel, including retrieving the player's luggage from the competing
hotel, and/or providing transportation for the player's family. The
player may also be permitted to request services such as exchange
of foreign currency into U.S. dollars via the gaming device
300.
[0162] The foregoing description discloses only exemplary
embodiments of the invention; modifications of the above disclosed
apparatus and methods which fall within the scope of the invention
will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art.
While the above embodiments have been described with respect to a
gaming device, it should be understood that alternatively a player
could manage hotel transactions from table games such as blackjack,
craps or roulette. In such cases, a player may interface his or her
player tracking card to a player tracking card reader at the table
game, or the dealer may interface the player tracking card to the
player tracking card reader. A display device at the table could
show the player his or her reservation information and allow the
player to make changes. Benefits could be provided by the dealer in
the form of gaming tokens.
[0163] All of the gaming devices 104 and the wireless terminal 108
of the system may be located in or adjacent to the hotel casino
served by the server 102. Alternatively, one or more of the gaming
device 104 and/or the wireless terminal 108 may be located remotely
from the casino hotel, e.g., at an airport for the city in which
the casino hotel is located. In such a case, a player may be
permitted to check in to the hotel by using a gaming device 104
upon arriving at the airport.
[0164] Accordingly, while the present invention has been disclosed
in connection with exemplary embodiments thereof, it should be
understood that other embodiments may fall within the spirit and
scope of the invention as defined by the following claims.
* * * * *
References