U.S. patent application number 10/121703 was filed with the patent office on 2003-10-16 for video gaming machine for casino games.
This patent application is currently assigned to VT TECH CORP.. Invention is credited to Shinners, Craig Edward, Vuong, Binh Thanh, Vuong, Son Thanh, Vuong, Vinh Thang.
Application Number | 20030195037 10/121703 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 28790389 |
Filed Date | 2003-10-16 |
United States Patent
Application |
20030195037 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Vuong, Vinh Thang ; et
al. |
October 16, 2003 |
Video gaming machine for casino games
Abstract
The present invention relates to a system and method for the
play of casino games. Casino games are played on a gaming machine
that includes a processor and at least one video camera for
detecting images of the user and a remote controlled electronic
lock. A reader associated with the gaming machine detects a
transponder circuit containing encoded user information. Using the
detected information, the gaming machine may be used to play casino
games or, if the user is authorized to gain access to the interior
of the gaming machine, the electronic lock is activated to permit
access to the interior of the cabinet. The decision to provide
access is made at a casino server. If unauthorized play or access
is detected, video images are transmitted by the casino server to
wireless Internet cellular telephones so that security personnel
can identify the individual attempting the unauthorized play or
access.
Inventors: |
Vuong, Vinh Thang; (Simi
Valley, CA) ; Vuong, Son Thanh; (Vancouver, CA)
; Vuong, Binh Thanh; (Simi Valley, CA) ; Shinners,
Craig Edward; (Pasadena, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
CRAIG E. SHINNERS
LAW OFFICE OF CRAIG E. SHINNERS
301 E. COLORADO BLVD
SUITE 610
PASADENA
CA
91101
US
|
Assignee: |
VT TECH CORP.
Simi Valley
CA
|
Family ID: |
28790389 |
Appl. No.: |
10/121703 |
Filed: |
April 11, 2002 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
463/29 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G07F 17/3241 20130101;
G07F 17/3239 20130101; G07F 17/32 20130101; G07F 17/3232
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
463/29 |
International
Class: |
A63F 009/24 |
Claims
We claim:
1. A system for playing a casino game comprising: a communication
network; a cabinet having processor, a user interface for
initiating and controlling the play of a game of chance, a display,
means for establishing a stake for the player, a reader for
receiving information specific to a user and a network interface
for establishing a network connection over said communication
network; a casino server coupled to said processor by said
communication network, said casino server adapted to maintain an
account for the user while said user is playing said casino game;
and means for securing said cabinet, said securing means including
a reader for receiving a request by said user for access to the
interior of said cabinet; said means for securing coupled to said
processor so that in response to an access request, information
regarding the identity of said person is transmitted to said casino
server over said communication network so as to selectively enable
remote determination whether access is authorized.
2. The system for playing a casino game of claim 1 further
comprising: a first video camera, coupled to said securing means
and said processor, for generating an image of said user in
response to receipt of said request.
3. The system for playing a casino game of claim 1 further
comprising: a non-contact reader adapted to detect information
regarding said user; and means for acquiring authenticating
information from said user.
4. The system for playing a casino game of claim 3 wherein said
information is maintained on an RFID device, said RFID device
comprising a transponder circuit encoded with information
corresponding to said user.
5. The system for playing a casino game of claim 3 wherein said
authenticating information comprises biometrics information.
6. The system for playing a casino game of claim 3 wherein said
casino server is adapted to detect when said user is a casino
employee authorized to gain access to the interior of said
cabinet.
7. The system for playing a casino game of claim 5 wherein said
casino server is adapted to maintain a log file of each access to
the interior of said cabinet, said log file including the
identification of said employee, the time of access and the
duration of access.
8. The system for playing a casino game of claim 7 further
comprising means for generating an alarm and for transmitting a
video image of said person attempting to gain access to the
interior of said cabinet to at least one wireless display unit.
9. The system of claim 8 wherein said wireless display unit
comprises a cellular phone.
10. The system for playing a casino game of claim 2 further
comprising means for generating an alarm and for transmitting a
video image of said person attempting to gain access to the
interior of said cabinet to at least one wireless display unit.
11. The system of claim 10 wherein said wireless display unit
comprises a portable Internet cellular phone.
12. The system for playing a casino game of claim 10 wherein said
casino server is adapted to maintain a log file of all access to
the cabinet including the identification of said user, the time of
access and the duration of access.
13. The system of claim 1 wherein said reader comprises a security
access controller that detects information encoded on an RFID
circuit when said RFID circuit is positioned proximate to said
security access controller.
14. The system of claim 13 further comprising an electronic lock
controlled by said security access controller.
15. The system of claim 14 wherein said security access controller
requires authorized information from said RFID circuit and
authorization from said casino server before activating said
electronic lock.
16. A method for controlling access to the interior of a gaming
machine and for initiating play of a casino game at said gaming
machine comprising the steps of: A) detecting the presence of a
person at said gaming machine; B) if said person is a player,
establishing a stake for said player; C) initializing the play of
said casino game; D) maintaining a log file containing information
regarding the play of said player; E) monitoring the play of said
player for alarm conditions; and H) repeating steps A-E until said
player terminates play at said gaming machine.
17. The method of claim 16 further comprising the steps of: I) if,
in response to step A, it is determined that said person is
authorized to gain access to the interior of said gaming machine,
requesting authorization to provide such access; J) if said
authorization is granted, providing access to the interior of said
gaming machine; K) maintaining a log file containing information
regarding the person and the duration of said access; L) monitoring
the gaming machine for a plurality of alarm conditions; M)
initiating a request for security response if at least one of said
plurality of alarm conditions is detected; and N) terminating
access to the interior of said gaming machine.
18. The method of claim 17 further comprising the step of
transmitting a video signal of the person attempting to access said
gaming machine to a wireless portable device with video
display.
19. The method of claim 17 wherein said determining step comprises
the steps of: O) acquiring information from a transponder circuit
containing encoded information regarding the person attempting to
access the interior of the gaming machine; and P) verifying that
the encoded information corresponds to previously acquired
biometric information.
20. The method of claim 19 wherein said verifying step is performed
by a casino server.
Description
[0001] This invention claims priority under pending Provisional
Patent Application Serial number 06/283,307 filed Apr. 13, 2001
entitled SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR LIVE INTERACTIVE REMOTE GAMING USING
CASINO-BASED PROXIES and Provisional Patent Application Serial No.
06/301,939 filed Jun. 29, 2001 entitled INTELLIGENT CASINO
MANAGEMENT SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MANAGING INTERACTIVE REAL-TIME
NETWORK GAMING SYSTEMS, both of which are assigned to VT TECH Corp.
of Simi Valley, Calif., the assignee of the present invention, and
the disclosures of which are incorporated herein for all
purposes.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] (1) Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention relates to a system and method for
playing casino games and more specifically to a gaming machine
system that supports remote play and manages access by repair and
maintenance personnel.
[0004] (2)
[0005] Playing games of chance over the Internet is a popular past
time for many people. Indeed a recent report indicates that more
than 1,200 "on-line" casinos attract a large number of players who
are otherwise unable to travel to a physical casino and play their
desired casino game in person. In the Internet embodiment, the
casino is little more than a computer server connected to the World
Wide Web or other communication network. The computer server acts
as a gateway to computer software programs that, when executed,
replicate a game of chance. For example, the computer software
replicates games of chance such as roulette, baccarat, craps,
blackjack, pai gow (an Asian poker game) or slots, depending on the
player desires. When a player accesses the computer server, the
request to play a particular game is directed to the requested
software and the player plays against the computer. In such games,
the computer uses a random number generator to simulate the random
nature of the casino game.
[0006] While software-generated casino games may closely replicate
the odds of winning, many players would prefer to play at an actual
casino where there is a real deck of cards, a real pair of die or a
real video slot machine such as is commonly found in "brick and
mortar" casinos. For this reason, a real-time interactive gaming
system (RIGS) was described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,762,552, assigned to
VT TECH Corp., the assignee of the present invention. The RIGS
provides a platform where players can selectively play either
casino games from a remote location or software generated games of
chance. In order for the RIGS platform to function at sites remote
from the traditional "land-based" casino, a secure gaming machine
is needed. Preferably, the secure gaming machine will support
remote play at either a live table game or a video slot game or the
like. What is also needed is an entertainment venue where adults
can play casino games in a legal social setting remote from a
casino.
[0007] One problem that arises from remote gaming is that it is
difficult for the player to collect the stake at the end of play.
Accordingly, what is also needed is a gaming machine that accepts
cash and provides for the electronic transfer of funds to establish
and to cash out a player's stake. Clearly, it is also desirable
that the casino be able to monitor operation of the gaming machine
to ensure that it has not been compromised by unauthorized
access.
[0008] With widely dispersed gaming machines it is difficult to
maintain security. Typically, remotely located slot machines or
video poker machines comprise a cabinet that have an access door. A
conventional keyed lock usually secures the access door.
Unfortunately, maintaining an inventory of keys is complicated by
employee turnover and lost keys. When employees depart with their
key or keys are lost, security concerns require that the lock be
re-keyed. Unfortunately, it is expensive to re-key locks. Thus,
some method is needed to ensure that only authorized employees gain
access to the interior of the gaming machine.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] The present invention relates to a gaming machine system for
use in remote locations, typically outside of a traditional
land-based casino. Alternatively, the gaming machine system is
located inside the traditional land-based casino when greater
control over the access to the interior of the gaming machine is
required. More particularly, the present invention relates to a
gaming machine that may be used for both remote play at a table
game or as a slot machine. The gaming machine may be located at a
kiosk or other non-casino public sites such as coffee shops,
nightclubs, hotels or virtually any other non-traditional casino
location. Remote kiosks enable several players to remotely
participate in the play of casino games while at the same time
conveying the sense of excitement, social interaction and
entertainment as if the remote player were physically present at a
traditional casino.
[0010] In accordance with the present invention, the gaming machine
is configured to support both cash and cashless wagering. The
gaming machine is coupled to a traditional land-based casino by a
communication network to provide remote play capability and to
monitor the play rate of the player. The gaming system also enables
remote monitoring and control of access to the interior of the
gaming machine.
[0011] In one preferred embodiment, the gaming machine is housed in
a traditional slot machine cabinet well known in the field of
casino game manufacturing. A variety of such cabinets are well
known in the field. Inside the cabinet, the game machine includes a
processor for generating a game of chance, an access control device
(which is also referred to as a player detection device), at least
one video camera and an electronic lock remotely controlled over
the network by the casino security personnel.
[0012] When the gaming machine is used as a slot machine, the
on-board processor generates each play of the game including the
result and transmits this information to the casino's casino
server. Alternatively, the gaming machine may be configured to
operate as a seat at a live action table game such as described in
U.S. Pat. No. 5,762,552 or at a proxy game conducted at the casino
such as described in U.S. patent application, Ser. No. ______,
filed concurrently herewith (Attorney Docket No. 16-109) entitled
SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR LIVE INTERACTIVE REMOTE GAMING USING
CASINO-BASED PROXIES both of which are assigned to the assignee of
the present invention.
[0013] Examples of a live action table game are casino games based
on cards (black jack, pai gow, baccarat, etc), die (e.g., craps) or
wheels (e.g., roulette). A proxy game means that a player who is
not at the casino is able to remotely place wagers on a casino game
with the outcome determined by the play of another player playing
at the casino. The remote player merely determines the size of the
wager and the proxy player responsible for the actual play.
[0014] Each player may access a cash account maintained with the
casino or access a third party credit card account. Player access
is, in one embodiment, initiated using a non-contact proximity
device encoded with player identification information. By way of
example, non-contact proximity devices include radio frequency
identification (RFID) circuits and Bi-Statix identification
circuits. BiStatix technology is available from Motorola Inc.
Proximity devices may be in the form of a plastic credit card, a
pendant, a ring, a key tag or the like carried by the player. When
proximity devices are positioned proximate to the gaming machine,
an access control device detects the proximity device and initiates
a sequence of operations to activate the gaming machine's
operation. Players may also establish or add to their stake by
depositing currency by way of a bill collector.
[0015] The access control device is coupled to the gaming machine's
processor, which transmits the information to the casino's casino
server over a communication network. Thus, a player's account
information may be maintained at the casino and accessed by the
player regardless of where they play.
[0016] The access control device also detects when a casino
employee is present at the gaming machine and needs to gain access
to the interior of the gaming machine. The access control device
notifies the casino's security office over the communication
network that the employee is present by transmitting this
information to the casino's casino server. The server interfaces
with an electronic lock that controls access to the interior of the
gaming machine by authorized personnel at authorized time
periods.
[0017] In operation, casino personnel are issued a non-contact
proximity device encoded with their employee information. When an
employee arrives at the gaming machine, the encoded proximity
device is positioned proximate to the access control device and the
employee information is transmitted to the casino's server to
notify the casino security staff. The employee may be required to
enter a password to request access to the interior of the gaming
machine. If the casino security staff approves the access request,
the electronic lock is activated to provide access.
[0018] The video camera associated with the gaming machine is
positioned to capture the image of the player or casino employee.
The camera enables the casino to readily implement casino security
procedures at remote locations. The output of the video camera is
recorded at the casino server and is available should there be a
dispute regarding payment, the manner of play or access by casino
employees.
[0019] The casino server is coupled to each of the gaming machines
by way of a communication network, which by way of example may be
the Internet, a wireless (IEEE 802.11) or wireline local area
network (LAN), the telephone network (often referred to as "Public
Switched Telephone Network" or PSTN, or "Plain Old Telephone
System" or POTS) or a virtual private network. Advantageously, the
communication link enables the player or employee information and
video image to be viewed by security personnel so that the casino
security staff can monitor activity at the gaming machine in
real-time even if the gaming machine located at a remote site.
[0020] The gaming machine system of the present invention is more
clearly described in the following detailed description of a
preferred embodiment.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0021] FIG. 1 shows a block diagram of one embodiment of an
exemplary computer-based gaming machine system for practicing the
invention.
[0022] FIG. 2 illustrates a method for monitoring play at the
gaming machine in accordance with the present invention.
[0023] FIG. 3 shows a method for detecting the presence of a casino
employee at the gaming machine in accordance with the present
invention.
[0024] FIG. 4 shows a front perspective view of one embodiment of a
gaming machine.
[0025] FIG. 4 illustrates one preferred embodiment of exterior the
gaming machine.
[0026] FIG. 5 illustrates a front perspective view of the gaming
machine with the access door opened.
[0027] FIG. 6 illustrates a lock assembly for controlling access to
the interior of the gaming machine.
[0028] FIG. 7 illustrates one embodiment of an intelligent casino
management network system for coupling a plurality of game machines
to a casino server.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF A PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0029] The present invention relates to a casino gaming machine.
More particularly, the present invention relates to an improved
gaming machine for the play of slots, table games or other games of
chance. In the following description of the preferred embodiment,
reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part
hereof, and in which is shown by way of illustration a specific
embodiment in which the invention may be practiced. Wherever
possible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout in the
drawings to refer to the same or like components. It is to be
understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that changes
may be made without departing from the scope of the present
invention.
[0030] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a computer-based
gaming machine 100 configured for secure play at a location that is
either in a traditional casino or outside the casino at a kiosk or
other non-traditional location. With gaming machine 100, a player
establishes a stake by either depositing currency or accessing an
account maintained by the casino. Gaming machine 100 includes a
currency collector 102 that accepts the deposit of either paper
currency or coins.
[0031] In accordance with the present invention, each player may
also access a private account maintained for the player by the
casino with a personal identification card (not shown) that
includes encoded player information. Identification cards are also
referred to herein as ID cards. Gaming machine 100 includes a
proximity detector circuit 104 to detect and transfer the ID card
information to a processor 106. Processor is a computer-based
system having its own microprocessor, memory and programming
instructions as is well understood in the art.
[0032] Processor 106 monitors currency detector 102 and proximity
detector circuit 104 and transfers account information to a casino
server 108 over a local network 110 whenever a player begins play
at gaming machine 100. Local network 110 may be a system bus or a
local area network (LAN) such as Ethernet.
[0033] Gaming machine 100 also includes a network interface 108,
which is coupled to processor 106 by local network 110; a visual
display 112 for presenting the play of the game of chance; and a
user interface 114 to enable the player to access their casino
account and to play the game of chance. A bus 116, separate from
bus 110, couples processor 106 to display 112 and user interface
114. By separating bus 116 from bus 110, the player is unable to
access secure components of the gaming machine 100 coupled by bus
110. Gaming machine further includes at least one video camera 118
coupled by bus 110 to network 126.
[0034] When processor 106 needs to transfer information to a casino
server 124, network interface 108, network interface 108 handles
the transfer via communication network 126 which may be the
Internet, PSTN or POTS, a proprietary wireless or wireline LAN, or
a virtual private network. In this manner, communication network
126 links each gaming machine 100 to casino server 124. Casino
server 124 maintains each player's account information, which is
accessible by the player regardless of the location of gaming
machine 100.
[0035] Gaming machine 100 may be placed at remote locations outside
of a conventional casino, such as by way of example at a kiosk
located in a coffee shop, airport or some other attended location
where it is possible to restrict access by minors. Since gaming
machine 100 may not be located in a secure location, it is also
necessary to prevent unauthorized access to the interior of the
gaming machine 100 where processor 106 and currency receptacle 102
are located. Conversely, it is often necessary to provide access to
authorized personnel so that deposited cash can be collected or
repairs made in a timely manner. Monitoring and controlling access
to widely dispersed gaming machines is enhanced by the present
invention. Rather than rely on a lock activated by a mechanical
key, the gaming machine 100 utilizes an electronic network lock
assembly 122 that is coupled to both the proximity detector circuit
104 and the casino server 124. Lock assembly 122 controls access to
the interior of gaming machine 100 permitting access only when
approved by casino security personnel. A request to service the
gaming machine may be either approved and the event logged or
disapproved in real-time.
[0036] Play of a Casino Game at Game Machine
[0037] In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, each
player begins play by player may begin play of a casino game by
accessing his or her personal account to establish a stake. Players
use a casino player identification card having encoded personal
information and an embedded RFID circuit. The player places their
identification card proximate to reader to establish their stake or
credit line. A password or other biometric information may be
required to verify the player's identity. By way of example,
biometric information may be obtained by using the video camera to
verify identity using facial recognition techniques. Alternatively,
a small keypad may be included as part of the user interface so
that the player or employee can enter a password in a manner
similar to an ATM cash machine verifying the user before dispensing
money.
[0038] If the player wishes to begin play without using an
identification card, the player must either use casino chips,
tokens, coins, paper currency or a credit card. For this reason,
currency collector 102 may include a proximity detector to detect
the value of deposited casino tokens having embedded RFID
circuits.
[0039] Once the stake is established, the gaming machine conveys
player information to the casino server where a separate real-time
account for every player is maintained. For each player, the
account includes information, such as the name, address, age of the
player, player preferences for food, lodging and entertainment and
other information the casino may deem of value for their marketing
efforts. The casino server also maintains a log file that lists the
location of the gaming machine and the games played by the player,
the amount of each wager, the amount of the players' stake and the
average size of the wager. Casino server also collects additional
statistical information regarding the won/lost percentage and the
duration of play for each player for the present session and on a
cumulative basis. This information is updated while the player
plays by logging the information to the log file.
[0040] When a player terminates play, the casino server closes the
player's account by crediting winnings, deducting losses and saving
the log file. If the log file indicates that the anonymous player
has won a substantial amount of money, the casino server can
initiate an alarm to alert casino employees that the player should
pay the appropriate withholding tax or be monitored for improper
playing techniques. At the end of each accounting period, the
casino may provide an account statement to each registered player
on a monthly, quarterly, semiannual or annual basis. The account
statement may be useful for the player when calculating their
personal income tax return. Cumulative wagering information can be
used to apportion tax revenue among multiple
jurisdictions--specifically, the jurisdiction where the player is
located and the jurisdiction where the casino is located.
[0041] Referring now to FIG. 2, a method for monitoring the play of
a player is illustrated. Initially, as indicated at step 202, each
new player begins play by opening their personal account and
establishing a stake. In one preferred embodiment, players use a
casino player identification card having an embedded RFID circuit
with sufficient memory to store personal information to quickly
identify the player. Such identification cards are well known in
the art and are widely used by casinos to collect information
regarding their players. Other forms of RFID devices are also well
known and may be used instead of the ID card. For example, key tags
are small cylinders with the embedded the RFID circuit. These key
tags can be worn as a small personal article (such as a watch, ring
or bracelet. If the player wishes to begin play without using an
identification card, the player must either be on-site so that they
can buy casino chips or tokens for use at the game server or use an
approved credit card.
[0042] Once the player has established a stake, the gaming machine
conveys this information to the casino server as indicated at step
204. The casino server uses the information to establish and
maintain a separate real-time account for every player regarding
his or her play. For each player, the account may include
identifying information, such as the name, address, age, player
preferences for food, lodging and entertainment and other
information the casino may deem of value for their marketing
efforts. If the player is playing anonymously, the account will be
maintained but casino staff may approach the player to advise them
of the important comps that are being lost and suggest that they
obtain an identification card.
[0043] As indicated at step 206, the casino server also maintains a
log file that lists the games played by the player, the amount of
each wager, the amount of the players' stake and the average size
of the wager. Casino server also collects information regarding the
location of the player, the won/lost percentage and the duration of
play for each player for each session and on a cumulative basis.
This information is updated during play by logging the information
to the log file.
[0044] With gaming machine 100, maintaining the history log
associated with each player is greatly facilitated compared to
manual entry casinos currently use for rating play by each player
at a table game. If the log file indicates that the anonymous
player has won a substantial amount of money, the casino server can
initiate an alarm as indicated at step 208 and an attendant can be
dispatched to offer the player an ID card for future play.
[0045] When a player terminates play, the casino server closes the
player's account by crediting winnings, deducting losses and saving
the log file as indicated at step 210. Statistical information may
be updated at this time or at selected intervals throughout the
day. When the player subsequently returns, the player's account may
be re-opened and new information appended to the log file.
Alternatively, the player may present their identification card to
the casino and receive the balance of their account.
Advantageously, the value of the account and the player's password
are maintained by the casino and is need not be encoded on the
players' identification card.
[0046] Service Access to Interior of Game Machine
[0047] In addition to tracking players while they are playing a
casino game, the present system also provides information regarding
the casino employee or employees servicing gaming machine 100 as
illustrated in FIG. 3. To gain access to the interior of the gaming
machine, casino employees use an employee identification card (not
shown) having encoded personal information and an embedded RFID
circuit that is detectable by the proximity detector circuit as
indicated at step 302. When access is desired, casino service
employees identify themselves as present at the gaming machine (see
FIG. 1) by placing their proximity device 122 near proximity
detector 104 and optionally entering a password. The proximity
devices may be in the form of a plastic credit card, a pendant, a
ring, a key tag or the like. The gaming machine includes a
proximity detector circuit that detects the presence of the
proximity device.
[0048] The employee's information and video image is transmitted
from the gaming machine to the casino server as indicated at step
304. If the employee is authorized to access the interior of the
gaming machine as indicated at step 306, the electronic lock is
activated as indicated at step 308. If access is not authorized,
security or police may be notified to take appropriate action as
indicated at step 310. Security information is preferably
maintained at the casino's casino server.
[0049] An access log file is maintained by the casino server to
include information identifying the employee, the date and time,
the amount of money in the cash collector device and the duration
of time the gaming machine remains unlocked as indicated at step
314. The casino server monitors the maintenance service interval
and automatically verifies that the gaming machine is securely
locked when maintenance is completed as indicated at step 316. If
the gaming machine is left unlocked for an atypical amount of time
or if an unauthorized person attempts to access game machine, the
casino server generates an alarm and automatically notifies police
or other security personnel as indicated at step 318. The alarm
provides the location of the gaming machine and a description of
the problem for casino security personnel or police.
[0050] A video image of the person causing the alarm is transmitted
to web-enabled cell phone or computers coupled to the Internet or
other wireless network to assist police in identifying the people
to question or detain to resolve the problem as indicated at step
320.
[0051] If no alarm condition is detected, the log file is closed
and monitoring activity is terminated as indicated at step 322.
[0052] Gaming Machine Configuration
[0053] FIG. 4 illustrates one preferred embodiment of exterior of
gaming machine 100. As illustrated, gaming machine 100 comprises a
slot machine cabinet 400 of a type that is well known in the field
of casino games. In this embodiment, game machine 100 includes a
forward facing video display 112 for displaying either a broadcast
of a live game of chance from a selected casino or a video slot or
card game. Game machine 100 also includes a control panel 404
having a plurality of push buttons 406A-406F for controlling, by
way of example, the rate of play and manner of play and the size of
the wager. A deposit slot 408 accepts paper currency while coins
are deposited in deposit slot 410 so that a player may establish a
stake without accessing an account. Deposit slots 408 and 410 are
coupled to currency collector 102 so that deposits can be counted
and the amount conveyed to processor 106 to establish the stake.
Gaming machine 100 further includes a coin receptacle 412 where
coins are dispensed to pay off winning wagers if the player has not
yet established a casino account.
[0054] A first video camera 414 is positioned to record the image
of a player viewing the video display 402. A ceiling-mounted video
camera 416 may be positioned external from the gaming machine 100
to capture the video image of the player from a different
perspective.
[0055] Proximity detector 104 includes an antenna 418 built into
the surface of gaming machine as indicted by the dashed lines in
FIG. 4. If the player has a key tag or similar identification card,
antenna 418 detects the presence whenever the ID card is proximate
to the antenna. It will be appreciated that the RFID device
comprises a transponder circuit encoded with information. The
transponder transmits the encoded information whenever it is placed
proximate to the antenna of a reader such as proximity detector
104.
[0056] A contact card reader 418 may be included so that players
may initiate a stake or replenish their account using a standard
credit card where personal information is maintained on a magnetic
stripe.
[0057] Referring now to FIG. 5 a front perspective view of the
gaming machine 100 console is illustrated with the front panel 502
swung open to permit access to the interior of the gaming machine
100. It will be appreciated that gaming machine 100 may have a rear
panel door so that the maintenance personnel may work on the
machine away from players at adjacent machines. Many of the typical
components of the gaming machine, such as the display device, the
processor or the currency collection mechanism are not shown to
illustrate more clearly how lock assembly 122 is positioned to
secure the gaming machine.
[0058] Lock assembly 122 is a security access control device that
secures and manages entry to the interior of gaming machine 100.
Secure means that the lock assembly 122 maintains the front panel
in a closed and locked position until the casino security staff
authorizes access. Access management provides the casino the
ability to remotely monitor and determine whether access is
authorized. Thus, even though the gaming machine detects an
employee ID card, access may be denied if other criteria are not
satisfied.
[0059] One preferred lock assembly 122 is commercially available
from VT TECH Corp. the assignee of the present invention and is
marketed under the Prox-eLock trademark. The Prox-eLock lock is a
single door security access controller that may be networked and
remotely controlled. An electric strike lock or an electromagnetic
lock device 502 is mounted on opposing bars 504 and 506 that span
the interior of gaming machine 100. When the strike is engaged,
front panel 502 is securely fastened to the cabinet in the closed
position. Preferably, lock assembly 122 has a failed-secured scheme
so that the panel remains locked when the power to gaming machine
is lost.
[0060] As shown in FIG. 6, lock assembly 122 includes a computer,
CPU 602, responsible for controlling lock operations. Program
instructions are stored in a memory 604 that includes both
non-volatile memory and volatile memory. Nonvolatile memory
includes EEPROM, PROM and flash memory. Volatile memory means
random access memory that may be used to store access related
information.
[0061] A real-time clock 606 keeps track of access grant or denial
transactions. An access transaction is initiated by presentation of
an employee ID card at detector 104. Employee information obtained
by detector 104 is passed to CPU 602 by a reader interface circuit
610 that handles timing and other transfer dependent variables.
Detector 104, often referred to as a reader, reads ID card or tags
and may be based on barcode, magnetic, smartcard, or RFID encoded
information. Biometric information (fingerprint, retina, face or
voice information may also be collected by an additional reader
(not shown). Detector 104 is mounted inside the gaming cabinet to
prevent vandalism and is connected to antenna 418 (See FIG. 4) or
it may be connected to a separate antenna on the backside of the
gaming machine. It is to be understood that gaming machine 100 may
include a plurality of detectors. Reader interface 610 may comprise
a standard Wiegand, RS-232, RS-485 or Ethernet interface card.
Sensors and relays 612 are used to monitor input signals such as
door open/close, reader power and video camera and to initiate
operation of the door strike, alarms 618, control indicators 620
and the video camera 408, respectively.
[0062] General I/O module 614 permits entry of additional
information using, by way of example, a keypad. A power supply 622
supplies the appropriate voltage and current to operate lock
assembly 122. Preferably, power supply 622 includes a battery
back-up to maintain operation in the event of a power failure. A
processor interface 624 manages the bus 110 interface with other
components of gaming machine 100.
[0063] In operation, one or more individuals (such as a casino's
maintenance supervisor) may be provided a master ID card to open
any gaming machine at a specific site.
[0064] If the casino tokens include RFID circuits, the security
access control unit monitors the deposit of the tokens. Since the
RFID circuit includes encoded security codes, the use of
counterfeit tokens is prevented. Further, the encoded information
includes the token's value so tracking and inventory is greatly
facilitated.
[0065] When a contact or contact-less smart card is used for making
a wager, the security access control unit detects information
encoded in the card and enables the player to access their personal
account, maintained by the casino, for placing a wager. Once the
player is recognized, the casino server monitors the duration and
rate of play so that casino comps may be distributed in accordance
with the value to the casino. When the player has completed play,
the player's account is updated.
[0066] FIG. 7 illustrates one embodiment of an intelligent casino
management network system 700 for coupling a plurality of game
machines to the casino server. The casino management network system
is hierarchical in nature so that separate computer systems are
responsible for various tasks associated with conducting a game of
chance with players located in remote locations. This hierarchical
structure provides important safeguards that are necessary due to
the public's access to the casino's networked system and the risk
of hackers or cyber-criminals improperly manipulating accounting
information, wager amounts or game results.
[0067] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 7, the remote
environment 702 is coupled to the brick and mortar casino
environment 704 by a public or private communication network 126,
which may be the Internet, public telephone network, a local area
network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN).
[0068] In casino environment 704, a network manager 706 manages the
connection and the exchange of information between the remote
gaming machines and the casino server 124. Network manager 706 is
preferably a computer server system configured to maintain
communication threads with a plurality of remote environments
although only one is illustrated in FIG. 7. Similarly, the number
of casino environments is not restricted to a single casino.
[0069] When network manager 602 receives information from the
remote environment 702, player information is passed to casino
server 124 to initiate play. During the course of play, casino
server 124 maintains a detailed log of play by each authorized
player until the player terminates play. Casino server 124 is
responsible for notifying gaming machine 100 of the account status
for the player at the gaming machine. By way of example, a remote
player's status may be either authorized to play, currently playing
one or more games of chance, inactive, terminated.
[0070] Casino server 124 maintains a separate list log file for
each remote player together with each wager. The advantage of list
log file is that it enables revenue sharing between different
casino properties. This is particularly advantageous if a player
begins play at a first casino but then selects a game at a
different casino property in a different jurisdiction.
[0071] To minimize disruption due to failure of casino server 124,
backup computer systems (not shown) are operated in parallel so
there is always on-line redundancy. For higher levels of
reliability (and to minimize the likelihood of improper
manipulation of data in real-time), tertiary redundant casino
server computer systems (not illustrated) enable periodic votes to
determine whether there is agreement. If there is a disagreement:
(1) the majority will prevail; (2) the losing system will be
flagged as operating in an error state; and (3) system
administrators will be notified of the error.
[0072] As illustrated in FIG. 7, network manager 706 includes a
secure socket layer 708 to provide a secure environment to transfer
account and wager information over network 126. The use of secure
socket layer 708 is common in the art of network communications and
will not be further discussed herein. Network manager 706 may
include data storage space for retaining a record of the
communication traffic with each remote player in a list log file
(not shown). Although not illustrated, network manager 706 may
comprise a plurality of computer server systems configured to
balance the number of players on each system. Further, network
manager may include a plurality of redundant computer servers
configured to operate in tandem to provide a high degree of fault
tolerance and reliability.
[0073] On the casino environment side, network manager 706
communicates over network 710 through a secure socket layer and
firewall 712 to maximize secure communications with casino server
124. In the preferred embodiment, casino server 124 is also
provided with a firewall and means for establishing a secure socket
layer 714.
[0074] When network manager 706 receives communication from a
remote user, the information is transmitted to the casino server
124. Casino server 124 generates a log file maintained on a storage
area network (SAN) 716 of every message sent or received by network
manager 706.
[0075] For each player, personalization information is collected by
floor manger 720, transmitted to casino server 124 and retained so
that the casino will know the player's preferences. Historical
information includes data indicative of the player's average rate
of play and average wagered amount for each game of chance and for
each visit. The casino server will also maintain a stake for each
player. This amount will increase or decrease as the player
participates in one or more games of chance. When a wager is
placed, a portion of the stake must be allocated to cover the wager
in the event of a loss. A wager list is maintained to trace each
wager place, the game ID and the result. Winning wagers are
credited to the stake and losing wagers are deducted from the
stake.
[0076] The data retained by casino server 124 represents
comprehensive fine grain statistical data that enables the casino
to drill down to obtain complete perspective of casino operations
in real-time. Alternatively, the collected information enables a
broader perspective for refining casino operations.
[0077] Video manager 718 is a computer server system dedicated to
managing the stream of video data captured by a plurality of video
cameras associated with gaming machines in the remote environment.
Video manager 718 includes a storage area network for storing at
least two video streams from each gaming machine in compressed
format. Video manager 718 correlates the receipt of video with a
time stamp so that it may be readily matched to the log file
entries.
[0078] In remote environment 702, a floor manager 720 provides a
portal to the non-traditional casino environment 704 through a
secure socket layer connection 722. Floor manager 720 also manages
a plurality of remote gaming machines 100A-100(n) over local area
network 724. It will be appreciated that floor manager functions as
a local server as may provide additional functions such as video
compression, date encryption, network management functions or
redundant storage resources for casino server 124.
[0079] While certain exemplary preferred embodiments have been
described and shown in the accompanying drawings, it is to be
understood that such embodiments are merely illustrative of and not
restrictive on the broad invention. Further, it is to be understood
that this invention shall not be limited to the specific
construction and arrangements shown and described since various
modifications or changes may occur to those of ordinary skill in
the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the
invention as claimed.
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