U.S. patent application number 11/424430 was filed with the patent office on 2006-12-14 for system and method for automated play of lottery games.
Invention is credited to Andrew P. Golden, James A. Jorasch, John M. JR. Packes, Thomas M. Sparico, Michael F. Steib, Jay S. Walker.
Application Number | 20060281519 11/424430 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 25459654 |
Filed Date | 2006-12-14 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060281519 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Packes; John M. JR. ; et
al. |
December 14, 2006 |
SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR AUTOMATED PLAY OF LOTTERY GAMES
Abstract
A method according to one embodiment of the present invention
provides for: receiving data indicating a request by a player for
an automated session, in which the automated session comprises a
plurality of lottery outcomes; determining at least one parameter
associated with the automated session; determining at least one
lottery outcome; and providing the at least one lottery outcome
based on the at least one parameter.
Inventors: |
Packes; John M. JR.;
(Hawthorne, NY) ; Steib; Michael F.; (New York,
NY) ; Golden; Andrew P.; (Stamford, CT) ;
Jorasch; James A.; (Stamford, CT) ; Walker; Jay
S.; (Ridgefield, CT) ; Sparico; Thomas M.;
(New York, NY) |
Correspondence
Address: |
WALKER DIGITAL
2 HIGH RIDGE PARK
STAMFORD
CT
06905
US
|
Family ID: |
25459654 |
Appl. No.: |
11/424430 |
Filed: |
June 15, 2006 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
11199405 |
Aug 8, 2005 |
|
|
|
11424430 |
Jun 15, 2006 |
|
|
|
09930717 |
Aug 15, 2001 |
6964611 |
|
|
11199405 |
Aug 8, 2005 |
|
|
|
09437204 |
Nov 9, 1999 |
6244957 |
|
|
11199405 |
Aug 8, 2005 |
|
|
|
08774487 |
Dec 30, 1996 |
6012983 |
|
|
09437204 |
Nov 9, 1999 |
|
|
|
60225319 |
Aug 15, 2000 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
463/17 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G07F 17/32 20130101;
A63F 2003/086 20130101; G07F 17/3262 20130101; G07F 17/329
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
463/017 |
International
Class: |
A63F 9/24 20060101
A63F009/24 |
Claims
1. A method comprising: receiving data indicating a request by a
player for an automated session, in which the automated session
comprises a plurality of lottery outcomes; determining at least one
parameter associated with the automated session; determining at
least one lottery outcome; and providing the at least one lottery
outcome based on the at least one parameter.
2-27. (canceled)
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application
No. 60/225,319, "SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR AUTOMATED LOTTERY GAME
PLAY" filed Aug. 15, 2000, incorporated herein by reference.
[0002] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 09/437,204, "AUTOMATED PLAY GAMING DEVICE"
filed Nov. 9, 1999, which is a continuation of U.S. Pat. No.
6,012,983, "AUTOMATED PLAY GAMING DEVICE" filed Dec. 30, 1996 and
granted Jan. 11, 2000. Each of the above is incorporated herein by
reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] 1. Field of the Invention
[0004] The present invention relates generally to a method and
apparatus for automated play of lottery games.
[0005] 2. Description of Related Art
[0006] A purchase of a lottery ticket typically requires a visit to
an authorized lottery agent, where the process varies depending on
the type of game to be played. Commonly-known games include
"instant" tickets, or "scratch" tickets, where the winning status
is apparent on the face of the ticket, and "Lotto" games, where the
player picks or otherwise receives a set of entry numbers, and the
status of the numbers is determined by comparison with numbers
selected in a subsequent lottery drawing.
[0007] With respect to "scratch-off"-style instant lottery games, a
player typically purchases a paper or cardboard game ticket from a
participating lottery agent. In the case of most instant lottery
games, the player then reveals combinations of symbols or values by
physically uncovering a portion of the game ticket that is
concealed by a covering material, such as latex. Certain revealed
combinations of symbols or values may correspond to prizes, which
may be provided to a player at a participating lottery agent.
[0008] Thus, once a player purchases a ticket, an outcome
corresponding to the ticket may immediately be determined, and any
resultant prize may then be claimed. The ability of the instant
lottery player to determine immediately upon purchase, or at his
convenience, contributes to the appeal of instant lottery
games.
[0009] The typical requirements of travel to a lottery agent and/or
physical play of the ticket, however, may be a hardship on a
player. Further, a potential player may decide not to purchase a
lottery ticket because of these requirements, or may decide to
purchase a lesser number of lottery tickets than desired. In
addition, the overall cost associated with the production and
distribution of physical game tickets makes it prohibitive to offer
instant tickets for sale below a certain price point, such as one
dollar ($1.00).
[0010] Limited options have been made available whereby lottery
tickets may be purchased without visits to a lottery agent. Some
lotteries now offer subscription sales of "Lotto"-type lottery
tickets. With a subscription ticket, lottery entries are
automatically re-entered into drawings for a predefined number of
weeks. Such subscription tickets are often made available at a
discounted price. The Vermont State Lottery, for example, offers
multiple drawing "contracts," or a subscription, whereby a player
can enter selected numbers in multiple drawings.
[0011] Commonly-owned U.S. Pat. No. 5,871,398, "OFF-LINE REMOTE
SYSTEM FOR LOTTERIES AND GAMES OF SKILL", issued to Schneier, et
al. (hereinafter "the '398 patent"), describes systems and methods
for the electronic representation of instant lottery games via an
electronic hand-held ticket viewer (HTV). As described in the '398
patent, the HTV may comprise a personal digital assistant (PDA) or
other electronic device (e.g., a personal computer) having hardware
and/or software means operable to facilitate the methods described
therein.
[0012] The game of Keno resembles automated game play. A game of
Keno consists of matching a series of player-selected numbers
against a series of numbers drawn by the Keno system. Once the
player has selected the series of numbers, the player selects a
certain number of games for which those numbers are valid. Thus, by
selecting several games, the player may bet on future games without
further interaction with the system.
[0013] Despite proceeding without interaction between the player
and the Keno system, there is no automated play for a particular
customer in Keno. For example, the numbers are drawn by the system
and broadcast or transmitted to a number of screens throughout an
establishment, such as a casino. Thus, the establishment determines
how and when the outcomes of Keno games are provided to players.
Furthermore, the Keno games continue indefinitely, without regard
to either (i) a particular player's status, (ii) a particular
player's participation, or (iii) the outcome of a prior game. Thus,
while the drawing of numbers in Keno may occur in a continuous
manner, there is no automated play for a particular customer
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0014] A method according to one embodiment of the present
invention provides for: receiving data indicating a request by a
player for an automated session, in which the automated session
comprises a plurality of lottery outcomes; determining at least one
parameter associated with the automated session; determining at
least one lottery outcome; and providing the at least one lottery
outcome based on the at least one parameter.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0015] FIG. 1A is a schematic view of a player communication
device;
[0016] FIG. 1B is a schematic view of a graphical display of the
player communication device of FIG. 1A;
[0017] FIG. 2 is an overall schematic view of a system according to
one embodiment of the present invention, including a lottery server
and a player communication device;
[0018] FIG. 3 is a schematic view of the lottery server of FIG. 2,
including a player database, an automated session database and a
communication device database;
[0019] FIG. 4 is a schematic view of the player communication
device of FIG. 2;
[0020] FIG. 5 is a schematic view of the player database of FIG.
3;
[0021] FIG. 6 is a schematic view of the automated session database
of FIG. 3;
[0022] FIG. 7 is a schematic view of the communication device
database of FIG. 3;
[0023] FIGS. 8A and 8B are a flow diagram of the operation of the
system of FIG. 2; and
[0024] FIG. 9 is a flow diagram of the operation of the system of
FIG. 2, illustrating termination of automated play.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0025] Various embodiments of the present invention provide a
method and apparatus for automated play of lottery games. According
to an exemplary process, a player communication device and a
lottery server are in communication with each other. Either the
player communication device or the lottery server (or a combination
thereof) performs a method of determining an automated play
parameter associated with a player, and providing lottery
information in accordance with the automated play parameter. In
this way, a player may enjoy automated play of a lottery game (or
games).
[0026] Various embodiments of the present invention include a
lottery server operable to receive a limiting criterion of play,
initiate automated play of a lottery game, and terminate automated
play of the lottery game upon occurrence of the limiting criterion.
In another embodiment of the present invention, the automated play
of the lottery game includes repetitive play of the lottery
game.
[0027] In many instances, the limiting criteria will be the use of
the moneys initially authorized for play, e.g., when an account
associated with the automated play mode runs out of money. The
present invention further provides a method and apparatus for
notifying a player when available credit is running low, permitting
a player to increase the balance of an account, or to remotely
authorize further funds for continued play.
[0028] A method according to other various embodiments of the
present invention includes the step of initiating automated play at
a player device. In such embodiments, automated play of the player
device may occur when the player device is unattended by a
player.
[0029] According to other various embodiments, the method includes
the steps of receiving a play option and automatically playing a
lottery game according to the play option.
[0030] The present invention also includes a lottery server which
includes a memory device having a player parameter selection stored
therein and a processor in communication with the memory device.
The processor is configured to initiate automated play of a lottery
game until occurrence of a limiting criterion of play.
[0031] Various embodiments of the present invention provide for
determining an outcome of an automated play session that requires a
decision by the player in order to determine a further outcome or a
payout, and then holding the outcome for a later decision by the
player. Alternatively, the outcome requiring a decision may be
determined in accordance with a parameter associated with the
automated play session.
[0032] Various embodiments of the present invention provide for
maintaining an audit trail for a lottery server and the outcomes of
lottery games.
[0033] The present invention is directed generally to automated
play of lottery games. In various embodiments, a player provides
player identifying information and player parameter selections to a
lottery server. The lottery server stores the player parameter
selections and proceeds to initiate automated play of a lottery
game or of multiple lottery games.
[0034] According to various embodiments, the player identifying
information and player parameter selections may be entered at a
player communication device. The player communication device may
store the information and selections and/or transmit the
information and selections to a lottery server. According to
various embodiments, the player communication device may initiate
automated play.
[0035] Such automated play may occur while the player communication
device is unattended by the player Remote communications with the
player permit the player engaged in automated play both to enjoy
the ongoing play, and to alter any pre-established, limiting
criteria, for example relating to funding, by making appropriate
adjustments during the course of automated play. In various
embodiments of the present invention, such adjustments may be made
via a communication device. Some limitations may also be altered
remotely, through a telephone call or appropriate communication to
the lottery server or, for example, to personnel operating the
lottery server. The automated play session ends upon occurrence of
a limiting criterion or upon the termination of the automated play
session by the player.
[0036] With reference to FIG. 1A, a cellular telephone 100
according to one exemplary embodiment of the present invention is
shown. The telephone 100 has a game display 150 capable of
displaying lottery information.
[0037] With reference to FIG. 1B, the game display 150 depicts an
example of an instant lottery game. A player playing the instant
lottery game is instructed to reveal the six play areas displayed.
If three winning amounts are matched, the player wins that amount
(e.g., the instant lottery game shown in FIG. 1B results in a
ticket outcome of $5.00). The game display 150 indicates that the
player has arranged to have one instant lottery game automatically
delivered each hour from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (e.g., without further
input or request from the player) via his cellular telephone
100.
[0038] The play areas may be revealed in response to the player's
input, for example, by using the keypad of the cellular telephone
100, or, alternatively, by voice command. Alternatively, the play
areas may be revealed automatically by the cellular telephone 100.
According to one embodiment, the cellular telephone may reveal the
play areas automatically in response to a signal from a lottery
server.
[0039] With reference to FIG. 2, a system 200 according to one
embodiment of the present invention is shown. In general, the
system 200 comprises a lottery server 300 in communication with a
plurality of player communication devices 400. Communication device
400 (e.g., a pager, personal computer, handheld display device,
PDA, set-top display device, or cellular telephone including a
display) provides sufficient information to permit the player to
follow and enjoy the play, and in some cases to authorize necessary
or desired changes in the play.
[0040] As will be described in greater detail below, the player
communication device 400 may be used to communicate player
identifying information and player parameter selections to the
lottery server 300. The lottery server 300 may comprise a computer
device, such as a Web server, operated on behalf of or, in
conjunction with, a lottery authority. The lottery server 300
determines lottery outcome data and communicates instructions and
lottery information, including the lottery outcome data, to the
player communication device (or communication devices) 400.
[0041] Communications between the lottery server 300 and the player
communication devices 400 may be facilitated by way of a computer
network, such as the World Wide Web, the Internet, local area
network, postal mail, or any combination thereof. In accordance
with the present invention, a plurality of player communication
devices 400 may be located remotely from the lottery server 300,
for example, at a home of a player or at a lottery agent.
[0042] With reference to FIG. 3, the lottery server 300 will be
described in greater detail. Lottery server 300 may comprise any
computing device operable to execute electronically represented
instant lottery games in accordance with the methods of the present
invention. Lottery server 300 has a Central Processing Unit (CPU)
310. The CPU 310, which has a clock 312 associated therewith,
executes instructions of a program stored in Read Only Memory (ROM)
320. During execution of the program instructions, the CPU 310
temporarily stores information in the Random Access Memory (RAM)
330.
[0043] Additionally, the CPU 310 is coupled to a data storage
device 340, having a transaction processor 342, a player database
500, an automated session database 600 and a communication device
database 700. In general, the transaction processor 342 manages the
contents of the data storage device 340. As discussed in detail
below, the player database 500, automated session database 600 and
the communication device database 700 store information related to
player identification, automated lottery game play and remote
communication to the player's communication device 400,
respectively.
[0044] In order to communicate with the communication device 400,
the lottery server 300 also includes a communication port 350. The
communication port 350 is coupled to both the CPU 310 and the data
storage device 340. Thus, the CPU 310 can control the communication
port 350 to receive information from the data storage device 340
and transmit the information to the player communication device
400. Information may also be received from the player communication
device 400 via communication port 350. Note that the communication
path between the communication port 350 and the communication
device 400 need not be hardwired. As noted above, the communication
device 400 is preferably a personal computer, a pager, a handheld
device including a display (e.g., such as a PDA), or a cellular
telephone, and preferably employs wireless communication.
[0045] Lastly, also in communication with the CPU 310 is a Random
Number Generator (RNG) 360. Under control of a program stored, for
example, in storage device 340 or ROM 320, the CPU 310 initiates
the RNG 360 to generate a random number. Alternatively, the CPU 310
may be controlled by, or responsive to, for example a signal from
the player communication device 400.
[0046] The CPU 310 looks up the generated random number in a stored
table 382 and finds the corresponding outcome. Based on the
identified outcome, the CPU 310 locates the appropriate payout in a
stored payout table 384. Alternatively, the CPU may determine the
payout based directly upon the generated random number.
[0047] With reference to FIG. 4, the player communication device
400 contains a Central Processing Unit (CPU) 410 and a clock 412.
The CPU 410 may execute instructions of a program stored in Read
Only Memory (ROM) 420.
[0048] The player communication device 400 also includes a display
area 470 and a keypad 430. In operation, as discussed below, the
player communication device 400 may display a message prompting the
player to enter player parameter selections. In the present
embodiment, the player enters the player parameter selections via
the keypad 430. In an alternative embodiment, a player enters the
player parameter selections via the display area 470, which may
include a touch screen.
[0049] With respect to gaming operations, under control of a
program stored (e.g., in a storage device 480 or ROM 420) the CPU
410 may determine an automated play parameter associated with the
player. For example, the player may input an indication of an
automated player parameter, or, alternatively, the player
communication device may store an indication of the automated
player parameter in, for example, storage device 480. Then, the
player communication device 400 may provide lottery information in
accordance with the automated play parameter. For example, as
discussed in greater detail below, a sequence of lottery outcome
data may be received from lottery server 300 and stored, for
example, in storage device 480. Player communication device 400 may
then display lottery information in accordance with the automated
play parameter, for example, revealing a game (or game result) once
every hour. Alternatively, the CPU 410 may be controlled by, or
responsive to, for example, a stored program or a signal from the
lottery server 300. Thus, information and instructions may be
communicated among the lottery server 300 and player communication
device 400.
[0050] The player database 500 of the present embodiment as shown
in FIG. 5, includes multiple records having multiple fields of
information. Specifically, the player database 500 comprises
multiple records, each record being associated with a particular
player, as identified by a player identification (ID) code. The
fields within each record include: name 510, social security number
520, player ID 530, address 540, telephone number 550, credit card
number 560 and credit balance 570. Thus, having information related
to one field, such as player ID 530, allows the lottery server 300
to retrieve or access further information stored in the other
fields of that player's record.
[0051] It is to be understood that not all of these identifying
fields, nor the illustrated design of the player database 500, are
necessary for operation of the present embodiment. Specifically,
the name 510, social security number 520, player ID 530, address
540, telephone number 550 and credit card number 560 fields are
merely representative of additional information that may be stored
and used for other purposes. For example, in an alternative
embodiment, credit card number 560 is used for billing purposes and
social security number 520 is used to generate tax forms when a
player wins a payout over a given amount.
[0052] Thus, in the present embodiment, only the player's name 510,
player ID 530 and credit balance 570 are necessary.
[0053] The automated session database 600, as shown in FIG. 6,
comprises multiple records, each record pertaining to an automated
play session of a particular player, as identified by the player
ID. Consequently, one field in each record is the player ID field
610. Other fields include: start time 620, end time 630, time to
deliver outcome 635, maximum number of games 640, limiting credit
balance 650, limiting maximum payout 660, bet per game 670, time
between games 680, event 690 and communication device number 695.
As will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art, since both
the player database 500 and the automated session database 600
include a player ID field, 530 and 610, respectively, the system
200 can correlate any information stored in the player database
500, corresponding to a particular player, with any information
stored in the automated session database 600, corresponding to that
same player.
[0054] The communication device database 700, as shown in FIG. 7,
includes multiple records, each record pertaining to a different
communication device 400 as identified by a communication device
number as stored in the communication device number field 710. The
additional fields in each record include communicator identifier
720, player ID 730, communicator time out 740, and communicator
time in 750. Because the communication device database 700 and the
automated session database 600 both include a communication device
number field 720, 695, respectively, information can be correlated
between the two databases.
[0055] Furthermore, because the communication device database 700,
like the automated session database 600 and the player database
500, contains a player ID field 730, the system 200 can correlate
information contained within these three databases 500, 600, 700
for a particular player, as identified by the player ID.
[0056] In one embodiment of the present invention, the information
stored in the communication device database 700 is used to
inventory the communication devices 400. The communication time out
740 represents the time at which a player received a communication
device 400 from, for example, a lottery agent, and the communicator
time in 750 represents the time the communication device 400 was
returned to, for example, the lottery agent. Having such
information, the lottery server 300 may, at any given time, search
the communication device database 700 and determine which
communication devices 400 are presently in use. Furthermore, for
any communication device 400 that has been out for more than a
given period, the lottery server 300 may determine which player,
based upon the player ID number in field 730, last used the device
400. Moreover, based on the player ID number, the server 300.can
obtain the information necessary to contact that player from that
player's record in the player database 500.
[0057] As will be understood by those skilled in the art, the
ultimate goal of most lottery players is to hit a payout. The
enjoyment of the play, as well as the ability to maximize the
chance of hitting a large payout, is increased by more play. Play
can be increased both by playing longer, and by playing faster. As
will be appreciated from a consideration of the process described
below, the present invention permits both increased duration and
speed of play. The operation of the system 200 will now be
described in greater detail with reference to automated play
process 800 of FIGS. 8A and 8B, and continuing reference to FIGS.
1-7. It is to be understood that the programs stored in ROM 320 of
the lottery server 300 and ROM 420 of the player communication
device 400 provide the functions described below.
[0058] As shown at step 805, the lottery player first activates
player communication device 400. Player communication device 400
then proceeds to determine player identifier information. Player
identifier information may be stored, for example, in storage
device 480. Alternatively, the player may input the player
identifier information. Typically, the player identifier
information, namely the player's name and the player ID, are
communicated from the player communication device 400 to the
lottery server 300. In other embodiments, the player communication
device 400 may simply transmit its communication device number to
lottery server 300. The lottery server 300 may then retrieve player
identifier information by referencing the communication device
number field 710 of the player communication device database 700
and determining the corresponding player ID 730.
[0059] Upon receiving the player identifying information, the
lottery server 300 authenticates the information. This step,
depicted as step 810, includes the lottery server 300 searching the
player database 500 for a record containing the player name and
player ID received in the appropriate fields 510 and 530,
respectively. Once the lottery server 300 authenticates the player
identifying information, the server 300 transmits a signal to the
player communication device 400 acknowledging such
authentication.
[0060] In step 815, the player chooses to select automated lottery
play. According to various embodiments of the present invention,
the player may choose to select automated lottery play after
receiving an offer of a reward in exchange for the player
participating in an automated play session. A reward might be, for
example, a bonus payout, a higher payout schedule, a gift
certificate, free plays, or the like.
[0061] The player communication device 400 also prompts the player
to authorize finds for use during the automated play session.
Specifically, as shown in step 530, the player uses player
communication device 400 to authorize an amount of finds for
lottery play by, for example, providing a credit card number and
the amount of funds the player wishes to have credited to his game
account. The player communication device 400 then transmits a
signal to the lottery server 300 indicating the credit card number
and/or the amount of funds deposited by the player. In response,
the lottery server 300 accesses the record in the player database
500 corresponding to the particular player and increments the
credit balance field 3500 in accordance with the amount of funds
deposited.
[0062] In yet another alternative embodiment, the player, prior to
initiating an automated play session, deposits a certain amount of
funds at a lottery agent. The lottery agent accesses the record in
the player database 500 corresponding to the player's ID. The
cashier then increments the credit balance field 570 by the amount
of finds just deposited.
[0063] In step 820 the remote player enters the player parameter
selections. More specifically, the lottery server 300 transmits a
signal to the player communication device 400 causing the player
communication device 400 to display a prompt on the display 420
requesting that the player enter the player parameter selections.
As noted above, the player preferably enters the player parameter
selections via keypad 430. In an alternative embodiment, the player
enters the player parameter selection via the touch screen on the
display 420. In yet another alternative embodiment, the player
parameter selections are previously stored in a record in the
automated session database 600 as identified by the particular
player's player ID in field 510. Alternatively, the player may
enter the player parameter selections via voice commands to
communication device 400.
[0064] Player parameter selections include both play options and
limiting criteria of play. Play options, as used herein, include
any information used to define automated play. In the present
embodiment, play options include the bet per game and time between
games, as stored in fields 670 and 680 of the automated session
database 600. Other play options may include, for example, the
type(s) of lottery game(s) to be played, a time for an outcome to
be provided, or an event that triggers the provision of an outcome.
For example, a player might request an automated play session
including only games which had produced the most (or,
alternatively, the fewest) wins in the last hour.
[0065] Play options may be used by the player communication device
400 or by the lottery server 300 to determine how the player wants
the lottery information delivered. For example, a player may desire
an electronic "scratch-off" type lottery ticket to be delivered to
the payer via e-mail once per hour during the workday. According to
another embodiment, the player communication device 400 or the
lottery server 300 may automatically play the lottery ticket for
the player, e.g., by revealing or otherwise determining an outcome
of the electronic ticket.
[0066] A limiting criterion, on the other hand, is any information
that may define the beginning or end of an automated play session.
In the present embodiment, limiting criteria include: start time,
end time, requested number of games, credit balance, total losses,
total winnings, and limiting maximum payout. By definition, the
expiration of all available credits/funding for playing will,
unless other arrangements are made in advance with the lottery
authority, constitutes a limiting criterion of play. Similarly, the
player may define a specific winning credit value as a limiting
criterion of play (e.g., stop playing if a credit of one thousand
dollars is ever registered).
[0067] Once the player communication device 400 receives the player
preference selections, the player communication device 400
transmits the information to lottery server 300. The lottery server
300, as shown in step 830, proceeds to store the player parameter
selections in the appropriate fields in the automated session
database 600.
[0068] In addition to storing the player parameter selections, the
lottery server 300 assigns an address in RAM 330 to keep current
totals of actual limiting values. An actual limiting value is a
value that corresponds to a limiting criterion of play. More
specifically, an actual limiting value is the actual, current total
of a criterion value necessary to determine whether any of the
limiting criteria of play have occurred.
[0069] Thus, in the present embodiment, the lottery server 300
assigns an address in RAM 330 to store the number of outcomes that
actually occur during automated play. Additionally, the server 300
assigns an address in RAM 330 to store the actual amount of losses
or winnings during automated play. Both the actual number of
outcomes and the actual amount of winnings or losses may be actual
limiting values.
[0070] Furthermore, the current credit balance, which is stored in
RAM 330, may also be an actual limiting value. As described below
with reference to steps 845, 850 and 860, these actual limiting
values are updated during automated play and used to determine
whether a limiting criterion has occurred.
[0071] The lottery server 300 may also assign an address in RAM 330
to store a time value corresponding to the play option of time
between games 580.
[0072] Next, in step 835, the automated play session commences. In
one embodiment of the present invention, the commencement of
automated play includes the lottery server 300 transmitting locking
data to the player communication device 400. The locking data may
be a signal that prevents a player from initiating a manual play of
the player communication device 400.
[0073] The lottery server 300 need not transmit locking data. If
so, player communication device 400 is not locked and may be used
by any player (including the player for whom automated play has
commenced).
[0074] Automated play may commence in various ways The server 300
may initiate automated play of a lottery game (or games), as shown
in step 840, if the player has entered a start time 530 as a player
parameter selection. Specifically, the lottery server 300 searches
the automated session database 600 and compares the time from the
clock 312 to the values stored in the start time field 530 and the
end time field 540. If the internal clock time is equal to or
greater than the value stored in the start time field 530 and less
than the value stored in the end time field 540 (if such a value
exists), then the lottery server 300 initiates automated play.
[0075] Alternatively, the player may choose to begin automated play
immediately upon entering the player parameter selections other
than a start time 530.
[0076] In step 845, the lottery server 300, having determined
outcome data, as described above with respect to various
embodiments, transmits the outcome data to the player communication
device 400.
[0077] Outcome data, as used herein, means any information
describing the outcome of a game. In the present embodiment,
outcome data includes a combination of numbers and/or values as
well as the corresponding payout or loss for a given play.
[0078] According to various embodiments of the present invention,
once the lottery server 300 determines the outcome data, it
accesses the automated session database 600 to determine the bet
per game 560 for the particular player. Lastly, the lottery server
300 accesses the player database 500 to update the credit balance
field 580 in the player's record. The credit balance field 580 is
decreased by the bet per game amount and increased by the payout,
if any.
[0079] In various embodiments, lottery server 300 stores outcome
data in conjunction with information identifying the player
associated with the outcome. This allows subsequent audits to
account for the fact that although one outcome was generated a
corresponding revenue stream may be associated with two players.
Alternatively, lottery server 300 may store the above information
without the identities.
[0080] Once the lottery server 300 receives the outcome data, the
server 300 also updates the actual limiting criteria stored in RAM
330, as needed. Specifically, the number of games value is
incremented by one and the total losses/winnings value is changed
to reflect the results of the last game.
[0081] In various embodiments of the present invention, the server
300 also stores the time it proceeds to step 855, as indicated by
clock 312, as the time value corresponding to the time between
games 580.The server 300 uses this time value to determine the
speed of play. Each subsequent time the system 200 performs the
operations of step 850, the server 300 also determines whether, in
light of the time between games 580, it must delay before
continuing to proceed. Specifically, the server 300 retrieves the
time between games 580 and the previously stored time value. The
server only proceeds to step 855 when the current time, as
indicated by the clock 312, equals the sum of the time between
games 580 and the previously stored time value. The server 300
stores the time it proceeds to step 855 as the new time value.
[0082] It is anticipated that a player having only a limited time
remaining at a lottery retail location and a small amount of finds
available will enter the minimum allowed time (e.g., "zero") as the
time between games 580. If such a value is received, the system 200
proceeds to continuously generate outcome data without delay, or
with a minimal amount of time between generated outcomes, until a
limiting criterion of play occurs. For example, the player enters
the minimum allowed time as the time between games 580 in step 825
and likely remains at the player communication device 400 to watch
the player communication device 400 rapidly display game after game
until, for example, the player is out of funds or wins a
payout.
[0083] In various alternative embodiments of the present invention,
the lottery server 300 compares generated outcome data with a
player's session parameters to determine if the game corresponding
to the generated outcome data should be included as a game in the
player's automated play session. For example, a player may choose
to include all games from a particular type of lottery game in his
automated play session.
[0084] Once the lottery server 300 receives the outcome data and
updates the databases, the server 300 transmits the results of the
play to the remote player communication device 400. The results
communicated in step 855 to the player communication device 400 may
include the determined sequence of numbers or values, the payout of
a particular game, the player's current credit balance 570, and any
other information stored or generated by the system 200.
[0085] Alternatively, the results may be stored by the server 300
and communicated, for example, at a specific time, periodically,
upon the player's request, or in accordance with a player's
selection parameters. Similarly, the results, once received by the
communication device 400, may be stored and displayed, for example,
at a specific time, periodically, upon the player's request, or in
accordance with a player's selection parameters.
[0086] According to one embodiment, the lottery server 300 may
determine an outcome sequence, for example, in accordance with a
player parameter or in response to a player request. The lottery
server 300 then provides the outcome sequence to the player
communication device 400. The lottery server 300 may provide an
outcome sequence that may be played by the player (or automatically
by the player communication device 400) over the course of several
game sessions. For example, the lottery server 300 may transmit and
store a predetermined number of outcomes at the player
communication device 400. The player may then reveal the set of
outcomes manually at the player communication device 400, or,
alternatively, specify that the player communication device 400
display the outcomes in accordance with automated play
parameters.
[0087] The lottery server 300 establishes communication with the
communication device 400 that is associated with the particular
player. Specifically, the server 300 accesses the communication
device database 700 and searches for the communication device
number 710 equal to that stored in the player's record in the
automated session database 600 in field 695. The server 300 then
uses the communicator identifier 720, which is the pager or
cellular telephone number, or the internet protocol (IP) address of
a set-top device, to establish communication with the communication
device 400.
[0088] Note that in various embodiments, more than one
communication device 400 may be associated with the particular
player. Thus, results may be transmitted to a player's cellular
telephone, PDA, pager, and/or other devices, for example, on a
player's "buddy list".
[0089] As described above, in one embodiment of the invention
communication device 400 comprises a pager with a liquid crystal or
other type of display. This communication of the outcome data to
the player, which may even include a display of the revealed values
of an instant lottery ticket on the display, permits a player to
enjoy the excitement of the play without a physical presence at a
lottery retailer location.
[0090] In one aspect of the invention, the remaining credit balance
is communicated to the player along with the outcome data. Thus,
when a player notes that his play may be terminated because his
credit balance is running out, he has the opportunity to supplement
the credit balance. The player can increase the credit balance by
phoning the lottery authority and authorizing the lottery authority
to increase the credit balance. The lottery authority personnel
will appropriately enter the additional funds into the correct
server database fields. Alternatively, the player may increase the
credit balance by sending a command to the lottery server 300, or
other device, via, e.g., a two-way pager or touch-tone wireless
telephone.
[0091] In step 860, having just completed one play, the lottery
server 300 determines whether a limiting criterion has occurred.
Specifically, in the present embodiment, the lottery server 300
accesses the record in the automated session database 600, as
identified by the player's ID 610, to determine whether any one of
the limiting criteria have occurred.
[0092] The determination of whether any of the limiting criteria
have occurred may be made by various comparisons, for example, by
comparing any of: 1) the end time 540 to an internal clock of the
server 300; 2) the maximum number of games 640 to the actual number
of games stored in RAM 330; 3) the current credit balance 570 to
the limiting credit balance 660; and 4) the limiting maximum payout
660 to the actual payout. If none of the limiting criteria have
occurred, operation of the system 200 proceeds from step 835, once
again.
[0093] If any one of the limiting criteria has occurred, then, in
step 865, the lottery server 300 stops the automated play session
and transmits a signal to the communication device 400, thereby
notifying the player that the automated session has ended. If the
player communication device 400 was locked-up during the automated
session, it may remain locked-up until the player returns. In an
alternative embodiment, the lottery server 300 also transmits an
unlocking signal to the player communication device 400 upon the
occurrence of a limiting criterion of play. The unlocking signal
indicates to the player communication device 400 that it may allow
manual play.
[0094] In yet another embodiment, information other than outcome
data, such as machine messages, is communicated to the
communication device 400. Machine messages, as used herein, include
information generated by the lottery server 300 relating to the
status of that particular lottery server 300. For example, such a
machine message may indicate that the lottery server 300 has
stopped functioning properly.
[0095] In yet another embodiment of the present invention, limiting
criteria of play, actual limiting values, or both, are communicated
to the player. For example, the player will be notified of the
current credit balance 570 and the limiting credit balance 650, as
well as the current number of games, as stored in RAM 330, and the
maximum number of games 640 allowed.
[0096] In an alternative embodiment, the outcome data transferred
in step 845 of FIG. 8B need only include the payout, if any.
[0097] It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that,
while the player may select player parameter selections in the
manner described above, the lottery authority may also set
guidelines on automated play of lottery games. Thus, the lottery
authority may limit the selectable range of player parameter
selections, for example the frequency of games, to insure
reasonably constant and speedy play. Further, the lottery authority
may alter the range of player parameter selections to encourage
play during times when the lottery server 300 or the player
communication device 400 is otherwise underutilized. For example,
the lottery authority may permit a player communication device 400
to be played during late night hours, in an automated mode, at a
slower speed and with a higher payout schedule. This would permit a
player to start automated play during the nighttime hours when the
device 400 would be otherwise unused. The lottery authority would
benefit from increased play and revenue, while the player would
benefit from potentially better payouts.
[0098] At any time during the operation of the system 200, as
described with reference to FIGS. 8A and 8B, the player may
manually terminate automated play via the player communication
device 400. Such manual termination of automated play will now be
described with reference to FIG. 9.
[0099] The player, in step 920, instructs the player communication
device 400 to communicate with the lottery server 300 by, for
example, using a button on the keypad 430. The player communication
device 400 determines the player identifying information as
discussed above and, in step 930, the player communication device
400 transmits this player identifying information to the lottery
server 300.
[0100] In step 940, the slot network server authenticates the
player identifying information. Specifically, the lottery server
300 searches the automated session database 600 to determine
whether the player ID number and the communication device ID number
just received are also present in a single record in the automated
session database 600. If the information is present in a single
record in the automated session database 600, the player
identifying information is deemed authentic.
[0101] In an alternative embodiment, the player may terminate his
automated play session via any well-known communication means,
e.g., via an Internet website, regardless of whether that
particular communication means was used to initiate the automated
play. Accordingly, the player identifying information may be deemed
authentic if the player ID number is in at least one record in the
automated session database 600.
[0102] Having authenticated the player identifying information, the
lottery server 300 transmits the results from the automated play to
the player communication device 400 for display to the player in
step 950. The results, which are displayed on display 420
preferably include the player's credit balance 570. The displaying
of the results may also include, for example, all of the resulting
numbers and/or values or only "highlights" of the winning numbers
and values. Having read the results from the automated play
session, as shown in step 960, the player may then decide to
terminate play. In step 970, if the player decides to terminate
play, then the player may receive a payout owed.
[0103] It will be understood that, should the player so desire, a
complete audit of the automated play session is available. Such an
audit would typically be provided by the lottery authority upon
special request by the player, and could include a complete
reporting of results for every play during the automated
session.
[0104] On the other hand, if the player decides not to terminate
play, then the player must decide whether to resume automated play,
as shown in step 980. If the player decides to resume automated
play, such play will continue as described with reference to FIG.
8B, steps 840-865, until a limiting criterion occurs or the player
returns to manually terminate play. The resumption of automated
play is shown as step 990.
[0105] As an alternative to resuming automated play, the player may
decide instead to resume manual play of the player communication
device 400. Step 995 illustrates the resumption of manual play.
[0106] As shown in step 970, the player may receive any payout due.
The lottery authority may proceed to pay the player any amount less
than or equal to the current credit balance 570 stored in the
player's record. The personnel then adjust the credit balance 570
to reflect the disbursement.
[0107] In another alternative embodiment, the player may receive a
prize or reward in lieu of the payout due. Such an offer may be
communicated to the player, for example, by the lottery server 300,
via the communication device 400. Of course, such an offer may be
communicated via the communication device 400 during automated
play.
[0108] In one embodiment of the present invention, the player
communication device 400 may store and update the automated play
information, including player identifying information, credit
balance, player parameter selections, and actual limiting values,
based on lottery information received from lottery server 300.
[0109] Furthermore, the present invention encompasses automated
play of lottery games that require a player to make decisions
during play, such as which game play areas to reveal during an
instant lottery ticket game. The inclusion of decision rules in the
player parameter selections accounts for the need to make
decisions. Alternatively, decision rules may be applied to all
players or may be otherwise outside of the control of the player.
For example, all players playing an automated play session, or a
certain subset of such players, may be forced to play according to
a predetermined set of decision rules. Decision rules dictate the
course of play based upon the current status of play. In short,
because decision rules obviate the need for player decisions,
automated play may proceed.
[0110] In an alternative embodiment, outcomes requiring a decision
by the player may be stored and displayed to the player at a later
time via the communication device 400 at the player's request.
After the outcome requiring a decision is stored, automated play
may then continue with the next game. In accordance with this
alternative embodiment, then, automated play could continue without
the player's selection. The player could then play all the stored
outcomes requiring the player's selection at a later time.
[0111] In an alternative embodiment, the player communication
device 400 may provide "instant replays" of outcomes of games
played during automated play, at the player's request. Replays may
comprise all or a portion of the outcomes of the games played.
[0112] In an alternative embodiment, a first player could associate
his automated play with a second player. In this way, outcomes
and/or payouts provided to the second player could be made
proportional to outcomes and/or payouts provided to the first
player.
[0113] There has thus been provided a method and apparatus of
operating a lottery game, e.g., an instant lottery ticket game, in
an automated manner. The invention further permits a player to
enjoy all of the benefits of lottery games, such as the enjoyment
of viewing lottery game outcomes, without necessitating a physical
presence at a lottery agent or physical play of a
"scratch-off"-type lottery game.
[0114] Although the present invention has been described in terms
of certain preferred embodiments, other embodiments that are
apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art are also intended to
be within the scope of the present invention. Accordingly, the
scope of the present invention is intended to be limited only by
the claims appended hereto.
* * * * *