U.S. patent application number 11/681443 was filed with the patent office on 2008-09-04 for biometric for purchases.
Invention is credited to Dean P. ALDERUCCI.
Application Number | 20080214261 11/681443 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 39731967 |
Filed Date | 2008-09-04 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080214261 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
ALDERUCCI; Dean P. |
September 4, 2008 |
BIOMETRIC FOR PURCHASES
Abstract
In a method of facilitating the playing of a game via a gaming
apparatus, a wager may be received via a value input device.
Biometric data associated with a purchase selection may be
received, and whether to permit the purchase selection may be
determined based on the received biometric data. A video image
relating to the game may be displayed on a display unit, and a
value payout associated with an outcome of the game may be
determined.
Inventors: |
ALDERUCCI; Dean P.;
(Westpoint, CT) |
Correspondence
Address: |
DEAN P. ALDERUCCI
CANTOR FITZGERALD, L.P., 110 EAST 59TH STREET (6TH FLOOR)
NEW YORK
NY
10022
US
|
Family ID: |
39731967 |
Appl. No.: |
11/681443 |
Filed: |
March 2, 2007 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
463/16 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G07F 17/32 20130101;
G07F 17/3206 20130101; G07F 17/3255 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
463/16 |
International
Class: |
A63F 9/00 20060101
A63F009/00 |
Claims
1. A gaming apparatus, comprising: a display unit; an input device
to allow a player to make an input selection; and a controller
operatively coupled to the display unit, the input device, and a
biometric device, the controller comprising a processor and a
memory operatively coupled to the processor, the controller being
programmed to allow the player to play a game, the controller being
programmed to permit the player to make a wager, the controller
being programmed to allow the player to make a purchase, the
controller being programmed to receive biometric data associated
with a purchase selection of the player, the controller being
programmed to determine whether to permit the purchase selection
based on the received biometric data, the controller being
programmed to cause a video image relating to the game to be
generated on the display unit, the controller being programmed to
determine a value payout associated with an outcome of the
game.
2. A gaming apparatus as defined in claim 1, wherein the controller
is further operatively coupled to a network; wherein the controller
is programmed to transmit the received biometric data to an
authentication server via the network; wherein the controller is
programmed to receive a message from the authentication server via
the network that indicates whether the player should be permitted
to make the purchase, the message in response to the biometric data
transmitted to the authentication server.
3. A gaming apparatus as defined in claim 2, wherein the message
from the authentication server indicates whether the transmitted
biometric data matches biometric data of a registered player.
4. A gaming apparatus as defined in claim 1, wherein the game
comprises a game selected from the group of games consisting of
video poker, video blackjack, video slots, video keno, and video
bingo.
5. A gaming apparatus as defined in claim 1, further comprising a
position sensing device operatively coupled to the controller;
wherein the controller is programmed to receive location data from
the position sensing device, the location data indicative of the
location of the gaming apparatus; wherein the controller is
programmed to allow the player to play a game based at least in
part on the location data.
6. A gaming apparatus as defined in claim 5, wherein the controller
is further operatively coupled to a network; wherein the controller
is programmed to transmit the location data received from the
position sensing device to an authentication server via the
network; wherein the controller is programmed to receive a message
from the authentication server via the network indicative of
whether the player should be permitted to play a game, the message
in response to the location data transmitted to the authentication
server.
7. A gaming apparatus as defined in claim 6, wherein the message
from the authentication server indicates whether the location of
the gaming apparatus is a permitted location.
8. A gaming apparatus as defined in claim 1, wherein the controller
is further operatively coupled to a network; wherein the controller
is programmed to receive a message from the authentication server
via the network indicative of whether the player should be
permitted to play the game, the message based on a determined
location of the gaming apparatus; wherein the controller being
programmed to allow the player to play the game is further based on
the message from the authentication server.
9. A gaming apparatus as defined in claim 1, further comprising a
smart card reader operatively coupled to the controller; wherein
the controller is programmed to compare the received biometric data
with biometric data stored on the smart card; wherein the
controller is programmed to not permit the purchase selection if
the received biometric data does not match the biometric data
stored on the smart card.
10. A gaming apparatus as defined in claim 1, further comprising a
value input device to allow the player to deposit a medium of
value.
11. A gaming apparatus as defined in claim 1, further comprising a
connector configured to permit a biometric device to removably
couple with the gaming apparatus.
12. A gaming apparatus as defined in claim 1, further comprising a
biometric device.
13. A gaming apparatus as defined in claim 12, wherein the
biometric device comprises a fingerprint scanner.
14. A gaming apparatus as defined in claim 13, wherein the
fingerprint scanner is integrated with a button; wherein the
controller is configured to determine that the player made the
purchase selection when the button is activated.
15. A gaming apparatus as defined in claim 13, wherein the
fingerprint scanner is integrated with a touch screen.
16. A gaming apparatus as defined in claim 15, wherein the
controller is configured to determine that the player made the
purchase selection when a touch on the fingerprint scanner is
detected.
17. A gaming apparatus as defined in claim 13, wherein the
fingerprint scanner is integrated with a lever; wherein the
controller is configured to determine that the player made the
purchase selection when the lever is activated.
18. A gaming apparatus as defined in claim 13, wherein the
fingerprint scanner is integrated with a smart card.
19. A method of facilitating the playing of a game via a gaming
apparatus, the method comprising: receiving a wager via a value
input device; receiving a game play selection; receiving biometric
data associated with a purchase selection; determining whether to
permit the purchase selection based on the received biometric data;
displaying a video image relating to the game on a display unit;
and determining a value payout associated with an outcome of the
game.
20. A tangible medium storing machine readable instructions
comprising: first code for receiving a wager via a value input
device; second code for receiving biometric data associated with a
purchase selection; third code for determining whether to permit
the purchase selection based on the received biometric data; fourth
code for displaying a video image relating to the game on a display
unit; and fifth code for determining a value payout associated with
an outcome of the game.
Description
BACKGROUND
[0001] This disclosure is generally related to gaming systems, and
more particularly to gaming systems that employ biometric data to
limit access to games.
[0002] U.S. Pat. No. 5,265,864 to Dickinson et al. describes a
cashless gaming system suitable for casinos. A player hands over
money and an ID card to a clerk at a validation terminal. The clerk
stores the ID number and the amount of money in the memory of the
validation terminal. Then the clerk returns the ID card to the
player for operating any one of a number of game terminals. The
player then selects a game terminal which reads the player's ID
card, whereupon the cash amount from the validation terminal is
downloaded to the selected game terminal and the game terminal can
then be played. When the player wishes to stop play of the game
terminal completely, the player actuates a cashout switch of the
game terminal. Then, the player presents the ID card to the clerk
at the validation terminal and the validation terminal reads the ID
card. A ticket showing the card number and the cash amount is
printed and the player is paid the cash amount on the spot. The
printed ticket may be used for reconciliation.
[0003] Various network gaming systems have been previously
described. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,280,325 to Fisk discloses a
computer network which manages multiple simultaneous bingo games
having a potentially large number of bingo cards. The computers
simultaneously and in parallel compare called bingo numbers to
bingo cards stored in each respective computer and also
double-verify winning cards. Called numbers may be applicable to
one, many, or all of the simultaneous bingo games, and the games
may have different times or different rules. Bingo cards are
distributed in the network in accordance with number of hits needed
by the cards: "one-away" computers handle bingo cards needing one
more hit; "two-away" computers handle cards needing two hits. The
computers in the network also generate statistics on the progress
of bingo cards toward winning patterns. The winning pattern for any
game can be changed in real-time, as desired to continue interest
in the game.
[0004] U.S. Pat. No. 6,264,560 to Goldberg, et al. discloses a game
playing method and apparatus for automating games such as
blackjack, poker, craps, roulette, baccarat and pai gow, wherein
players may play continuously and asynchronously, and information
related to advertised items can be exchanged between players and
advertisers. In one embodiment, each instance of a game is likely
unique from all other current game instances. The games do not
require a manual dealer and in one embodiment, played in a gaming
establishment using low cost gaming stations. The system may also
be used to play such games on the Internet or an interactive cable
television network wherein a game controller communicates with
players at network nodes in their homes and at their leisure.
[0005] U.S. Pat. No. 6,183,366 to Goldberg, et al. discloses an
information service and advertising providing system for presenting
interactive information services together with interactive
advertising on a communications network such as the Internet and
LANs. The information service may be a game played interactively on
the network while advertising is communicated between users and an
advertising network node. Users may also be provided with various
games and/or game tournaments via interactive network
communications. Users may respond to advertising while being
entertained (e.g., via games), or while interacting with another
network service.
SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0006] In one embodiment, a gaming apparatus is provided. The
gaming apparatus may comprise a display unit, and an input device
to allow a player to make an input selection. The gaming apparatus
may also comprise a controller operatively coupled to the display
unit, the input device, and a biometric device, the controller
comprising a processor and a memory operatively coupled to the
processor. The controller may be programmed to allow the player to
play a game, and to permit the player to make a wager. The
controller also may be programmed to receive biometric data
associated with a game play selection of the player, and to
determine whether to permit the game play selection based on the
received biometric data. The controller additionally be programmed
to cause a video image relating to the game to be generated on the
display unit, and to determine a value payout associated with an
outcome of the game.
[0007] In another embodiment, a method of facilitating the playing
of a game via a gaming apparatus is provided. The method may
include receiving a wager via a value input device. The method also
may include receiving biometric data associated with a game play
selection of a game, and determining whether to permit the game
play selection based on the received biometric data. The method
additionally may include displaying a video image relating to the
game on a display unit, and determining a value payout associated
with an outcome of the game.
[0008] In yet another embodiment, a tangible medium storing machine
readable instructions is provided. The tangible medium may comprise
first code for receiving a wager via a value input device. The
tangible medium additionally may comprise second code for receiving
biometric data associated with a game play selection of a game, and
third code for determining whether to permit the game play
selection based on the received biometric data. The tangible medium
also may comprise fourth code four displaying a video image
relating to the game on a display unit, and fifth code for
determining a value payout associated with an outcome of the
game.
[0009] Additional aspects of the invention are defined by the
claims at the end of this patent.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] Various embodiments of the invention are described in
connection with the drawings, a brief description of which is
provided below:
[0011] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an example gaming system;
[0012] FIG. 2 is a flowchart of an example routine for registering
a person to play games via the gaming system;
[0013] FIG. 3 is a flowchart of an example routine for logging on
to the gaming system;
[0014] FIGS. 4A-4D are block diagrams of example registration
units;
[0015] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of one example of a gaming
unit;
[0016] FIG. 5A is an illustration of one example of a control panel
for the example gaming unit illustrated in FIG. 5;
[0017] FIG. 6 is a block diagram of an example gaming unit;
[0018] FIG. 7 is a block diagram of an example authentication
server;
[0019] FIG. 8 is a block diagram of an example website server;
[0020] FIG. 9 is a block diagram of an example gaming server;
[0021] FIG. 10 is a block diagram of an example network
controller;
[0022] FIG. 11 is a flowchart of an example routine for obtaining
user data for registering with a gaming system;
[0023] FIG. 12 is an illustration of an example registration
display that may be displayed on one of the registration units;
[0024] FIG. 13 is a flowchart of an example routine for obtaining
biometric data for registration;
[0025] FIG. 14 is a flowchart of an example routine for operating a
gaming unit;
[0026] FIG. 15 is a flowchart of an example routine for obtaining
user data for authenticating a user;
[0027] FIG. 16 is a flowchart of an example routine for obtaining
location data;
[0028] FIG. 17 is a flowchart of an example routine for registering
a user with a gaming system;
[0029] FIG. 18 is a flowchart of an example routine for checking
the location of a gaming unit;
[0030] FIG. 19 is an illustration of an example routine for
checking biometric data of a user;
[0031] FIG. 20 is a flowchart of an example routine for operating a
website server;
[0032] FIG. 21 is an illustration of an example logon display that
may be displayed on one of the gaming units;
[0033] FIG. 22 is an illustration of an example game selection
display that may be displayed on one of the gaming units;
[0034] FIG. 23 is an illustration of an example of a visual display
that may be displayed during performance of a poker routine;
[0035] FIG. 24 is a flowchart of an example poker routine;
[0036] FIG. 25 is an illustration of an example of a visual display
that may be displayed during performance of a blackjack
routine;
[0037] FIG. 26 is a flowchart of an example blackjack routine;
[0038] FIG. 27 is an illustration of an example of a visual display
that may be displayed during performance of a slots routine;
[0039] FIG. 28 is a flowchart of an example slots routine;
[0040] FIG. 29 is an illustration of an example of a visual display
that may be displayed during performance of a keno routine;
[0041] FIG. 30 is a flowchart of an example keno routine;
[0042] FIG. 31 is an illustration of an example of a visual display
that may be displayed during performance of a bingo routine;
and
[0043] FIG. 32 is a flowchart of an example bingo routine.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF VARIOUS EMBODIMENTS
[0044] Although the following text sets forth a detailed
description of numerous different embodiments of the invention, it
should be understood that the legal scope of the invention is
defined by the words of the claims set forth at the end of this
patent. The detailed description is to be construed as exemplary
only and does not describe every possible embodiment of the
invention since describing every possible embodiment would be
impractical, if not impossible. Numerous alternative embodiments
could be implemented, using either current technology or technology
developed after the filing date of this patent, which would still
fall within the scope of the claims defining the invention.
[0045] It should also be understood that, unless a term is
expressly defined in this patent using the sentence "As used
herein, the term `_` is hereby defined to mean . . . " or a similar
sentence, there is no intent to limit the meaning of that term,
either expressly or by implication, beyond its plain or ordinary
meaning, and such term should not be interpreted to be limited in
scope based on any statement made in any section of this patent
(other than the language of the claims). To the extent that any
term recited in the claims at the end of this patent is referred to
in this patent in a manner consistent with a single meaning, that
is done for sake of clarity only so as to not confuse the reader,
and it is not intended that such claim term by limited, by
implication or otherwise, to that single meaning. Finally, it is
not intended that the scope of any claim element be interpreted
based on the application of 35 U.S.C. .sctn. 112, sixth
paragraph.
Gaming System
[0046] FIG. 1 illustrates one possible embodiment of a gaming
system 10 in accordance with the invention. Referring to FIG. 1,
the gaming system 10 may include a group or network 12 of gaming
units 20a, 20b, 20c operatively coupled to a network computer 22
via a network data link or bus 24. Network 12 may also include a
registration unit 26a operatively coupled to the network computer
22 and to the gaming units 20a, 20b, 20c via network the data link
24. Network 12 may be operatively coupled to a network 40 via a
network link 42. The network 12 may comprise, for example, a area
network (WAN), a local area network (LAN), a wireless LAN (e.g.,
the IEEE 802.11x standards), links according to the BLUETOOTH..TM..
standard, cellular links, two-way paging links, etc. The network 40
may comprise, for example, the Internet, a WAN, an intranet, an
extranet, a LAN, a wireless LAN (e.g., the IEEE 802.11x standards),
links according to the BLUETOOTH..TM.. standard, cellular links,
two-way paging links, etc.
[0047] The gaming system 10 may also include a website server 50
and one or more gaming servers 52 operatively coupled to the
network 40 via the data links 54 and 56, respectively. The gaming
system 10 additionally includes an authentication server 58
operatively coupled to the network 40 via the data link 60. The
gaming system 10 may further include gaming units 20d and 20e
operatively coupled to the network 40 via the data links 64 and 66,
and to a registration unit 26b via the data link 70. The network 40
may include a plurality of network computers or server computers
(not shown), each of which may be operatively interconnected. Where
the network 40 comprises the Internet, data communication may take
place over any of the data links 42, 54, 56, 60, 64, 66, and 70 via
an Internet communication protocol.
[0048] The network computer 22, the gaming units 20, the
registration units 26, the gaming server 52, the website server 50,
and the authentication server 58 may be located in a same physical
location, or in different, remote locations, such as different
buildings, cities, or states. For example, network 12 may be
located in a casino or hotel, and the website server may be located
at a web hosting company. Continuing with this example, the gaming
server 52 and the authentication server 58 may be located at a
gaming company, and the gaming units 20d and 20e may be located in
different households. Further, the registration unit 26b may be
located at a notary public's office.
[0049] Although FIG. 1 illustrates that the gaming system 10
comprises particular numbers of gaming units 20, registration units
26, gaming servers 52, etc., for sake of simplicity, it should be
understood that different numbers of these components could be
used. For instance, although FIG. 1 illustrates five gaming units
20, the gaming system 10 may include many more gaming units 20,
such as hundreds or thousands. As another example, although FIG. 1
illustrates one gaming server 52, the gaming system 10 may include
a plurality of gaming servers.
[0050] Each of the registration units 26 may include, or be
operatively coupled with, a device for obtaining biometric data
from a person, where the biometric data may be used to uniquely
identify that person. For instance, the registration units 26 may
include a finger print scanning device, an eye scanning device, a
facial recognition system, a voice analyzer, etc. In some
embodiments, the registration units 26 are located in controlled
environments such that it can be assured (with some level of
certainty) that the persons from whom biometric data are obtained
are actually the persons they claim to be. For example, a
registration unit 26 or 28 could be located in a casino and be
operable only by an employee of the casino.
[0051] Each of the gaming units 20 may also include, or be
operatively coupled with, a device for obtaining biometric data
from a person. This device should correspond to the biometric
devices used by the registration units 26. For example, if the
registration units 26 include, or are operatively coupled with,
finger print scanning devices, at least some of the gaming units 20
should include, or be operatively coupled with, finger print
scanning devices.
[0052] Further, each of the gaming units 20 may also include, or be
operatively coupled with, a position sensor for obtaining a
geographic position of the gaming unit. For example, the gaming
units 20 may include a wide area location system such as a global
positioning system (GPS) device, a Loran-C device, etc. The gaming
units 20 also may include a local area positioning system such as
an in-building location system.
[0053] The network computer 22 may be a server computer and may be
used to accumulate and analyze data relating to the operation of
the gaming units 20. For example, the network computer 22 may
continuously receive data from each of the gaming units 20
indicative of the dollar amount and number of wagers being made on
each of the gaming units 20, data indicative of how much each of
the gaming units 20 is paying out in winnings, data regarding the
identity and gaming habits of players playing each of the gaming
units 20, etc.
[0054] Although network 12 is shown to include one network computer
22 and four gaming units 20, it should be understood that different
numbers of computers and gaming units may be utilized. For example,
the network 12 may include a plurality of network computers 22 and
tens or hundreds of gaming units 20, all of which may be
interconnected via the data link 24.
[0055] Each of the data links 24, 42, 54, 56, 60, 64, 66, and 70
may comprise a dedicated hardwired link, a wireless link,
intermediate computers (e.g., servers, gateways, network bridges,
wireless access points, cellular/pager base stations, etc.),
etc.
[0056] It is to be understood that the gaming system 10 need not
include all the components illustrated in FIG. 1. Examples of
gaming systems 10 that include subsets of the components
illustrated in FIG. 1 are described below.
In-Room Gaming
[0057] In one scenario, the gaming system 10 may include the
network 12 (e.g., the network computer 22, the gaming units 20a,
20b, and 20c, and the registration unit 26a, coupled with the
network data link 24). As an example, the gaming units 20a, 20b,
and 20c may be located in different hotel rooms of a casino, the
registration unit 26a located at the hotel's reception, and the
network computer 22 located in a secure location of the hotel. In
another scenario, the gaming system 10 may also include the
authentication server 58 coupled to the network 12 via the network
40 and the data link 42. These particular gaming systems can be
used for "in-room gaming" in which a user can play wagering games
via a gaming unit in the privacy of his or her own hotel room.
Internet Gaming In yet another scenario, the gaming system 10 may
include the website server 50, the gaming server 52, the gaming
units 20d and 20e, and the registration unit 26b, coupled together
via the network 40. As an example, the gaming units 20d and 20e
could be personal computers located in different residences, and
the registration unit 26b may be located in a casino. Additionally,
the website server 50 may be located at a company that operates a
website, and the gaming server 52 may be located at a casino. These
components may be operatively coupled together via the network 40,
which includes the Internet. In another example, the gaming system
may additionally include the authentication server 58 operatively
coupled to the network 40. These particular gaming system can be
used for "internet gaming" in which a user can play wagering games
via a personal computer in the privacy of his or her own
residence.
Overall Operation
[0058] During operation, a user could utilize one of the
registration units 26 to register with a gaming service. The gaming
service could facilitate playing various wagering games such as
poker, blackjack, slots, bingo, keno, etc., via the gaming units
20. FIG. 2 is a simplified flow diagram of one possible embodiment
of a method of registering with a gaming service. At block 78, a
user may submit personal information such as name, date of birth,
etc. At block 80, at least some of the personal information may be
verified. For example, if the registration unit 26 is located in a
casino, an employee of the casino could verify the personal
information by examining a driver's license, identity card,
passport, etc. of the user.
[0059] At block 82, the user may submit biometric data via the
registration unit 26. For example, if the registration unit 26 is
coupled with a finger print scanning device, the finger print
scanning device may scan the user's fingerprint and generate
digital data representing the fingerprint. At block 84, the
personal information submitted at block 78 and the biometric data
submitted at block 82 are stored. This information may be stored,
for example, in a smart card, a memory, a database, etc. In gaming
systems that include an authentication server 58, the
authentication server 58 may be configured to receive and store
personal information and biometric data received from the
registration units 26.
[0060] Once registered with the gaming service, a user could "log
on" via the gaming unit 20 and play a wagering game. FIG. 3 is a
simplified flow diagram of one possible embodiment of a method of
logging on to a gaming service operated on the gaming system 10. At
block 86, the location of the gaming unit 20 to which a user is
attempting to "log on" may be determined. For instance, if the
gaming unit 20 includes a position sensing device, the location of
the gaming unit 20 can be determined by examining position data
generated by the position sensing device. At block 87, it may be
determined whether the location of the gaming unit 20 is in a
location in which games to be played are permitted. For instance,
wagering games are legal in only certain jurisdictions. Thus, if
the gaming unit (for example, a lap top computer) is located in a
jurisdiction in which wagering games are not legal, the user may
not be permitted access to the games. As another example, it may be
desired to permit a user to gamble with a mobile gaming unit 20
(e.g., a personal digital assistant with wireless connectivity)
only within a building or set of buildings (e.g., a casino and
hotel). Thus, if the gaming unit is brought outside the building
(e.g., the parking lot), the user may not be permitted access to
the games. Blocks 86 and 87 may be omitted if limiting access base
on location is not desired.
[0061] At block 88, a user may be prompted, by a gaming unit 20, to
submit biometric data. For example, in embodiments in which the
gaming unit 20 is coupled with a finger print scanning device, the
gaming unit 20 could display a screen or window that prompts the
user to have their finger print scanned. At block 90, the user may
submit biometric data using the gaming unit 20. In embodiments in
which the gaming unit 20 is coupled with a finger print scanning
device, the user's finger print may be scanned.
[0062] Then, at block 92, the biometric data obtained at block 90
may be compared with biometric data, obtained previously (e.g., via
a registration unit 26), of registered users of the gaming service.
In embodiments in which the gaming unit 20 is coupled with a finger
print scanning device, the finger print data obtained at block 90
may be compared with finger print data of registered users. If the
biometric data does not match, the user may not be permitted to
play a game. If the biometric data does match a registered user, it
may be determined, at block 94, whether the user is permitted to
play a game. For example, if the personal data, obtained previously
(e.g., via a registration unit 26), indicates that the user is too
young to play a wagering game, the user may not be permitted to
play. Similarly, if the user is on a "black list" of persons not
permitted to play games of the gaming service, the user may not be
permitted to play. At block 96, the user may be permitted to play a
game via the gaming unit 20. Block 94 may be omitted if it is not
desired to limit access in this way. For example, underage persons
could be prevented from registering in the first place.
Registration Units
[0063] Each registration unit 26 may be disposed in a different
location, such as a casino, a hotel, a notary public's office, etc.
Typically, the registration units 26 are located in a controlled
environment, such that there may be some level of assurance that
data obtained via the registration unit 26 is accurate. As one
example, a registration unit 26 may be located in a casino, and not
operable by the general public. Rather, a casino employee can
operate the registration unit 26. If a person wishes to register
with the gaming service, the casino employee can input personal
information of the person using the registration unit 26 after
verifying the information by, for example, examining a driver's
license, identification card, passport, etc. Further, the casino
employee can operate the registration unit 26 to obtain biometric
data from the person. For example, if the registration unit
includes a finger print scanning device, the casino employee can
operate the registration unit 26 and instruct the person so as to
obtain data representing the person's fingerprint.
[0064] In other embodiments, a user may submit personal information
without supervision. The information may be verified by, for
example, requesting the user mail a copy of a driver's license,
passport, etc. In some embodiments, the personal information need
not be verified.
[0065] Each registration unit may be either a smart terminal, such
as a personal computer, a laptop computer, a personal digital
assistant (PDA), etc., or a dumb terminal that does not include a
controller. FIG. 4A is a block diagram of one possible embodiment
of one of the registration units 26. Although one of the
registration units 26 is described below in connection with FIG.
4A, it should be understood that the structure of the registration
units 26 may be different, and each of the registration units 26
may have a different design or structure than other registration
units 26.
[0066] FIG. 4A is a simplified block diagram illustrating a number
of components that may be incorporated in one embodiment of a
registration unit. The registration unit 100A may include a
controller 101 that may comprise a program memory 102, a
microcontroller or microprocessor (MP) 104, a random-access memory
(RAM) 106 and an input/output (I/O) circuit 108, all of which may
be interconnected via an address/data bus 110. It should be
appreciated that although only one microprocessor 104 is shown, the
controller 101 may include multiple microprocessors 104. Similarly,
the memory of the controller 101 may include multiple RAMs 106 and
multiple program memories 102. Although the I/O circuit 108 is
shown as a single block, it should be appreciated that the I/O
circuit 108 may include a number of different types of I/O
circuits. RAM(s) 104 and program memories 102 may be implemented as
semiconductor memories, magnetically readable memories, and/or
optically readable memories, for example.
[0067] Program memory 102 may be a read-only memory (ROM), or a
read/write or alterable memory, such as a hard disk. In the event a
hard disk is used as a program memory, the address/data bus 110
shown schematically in FIG. 4A may comprise multiple address/data
buses, which may be of different types, and there may be an I/O
circuit disposed between the address/data buses. The network data
link 24, 70 may be operatively coupled to the I/O circuit 108.
[0068] The registration unit 100A may include a display unit 112,
which may be any type of display unit such as a cathode-ray tube
(CRT), a flat panel display, etc. Additionally, the registration
unit 100A may include one or more input devices 114 such as a
keyboard, mouse, bar code scanner, smart card reader, a touch
sensitive device associated with the display unit 112, etc.
Further, the registration unit 100A may include a fingerprint
scanning device 116 which may be any device capable of detecting
the fingerprint of a person and generating digital data
representing the fingerprint. The registration unit 100A and the
fingerprint scanning device 116 may be configured so that the
fingerprint scanning device 116 may removable couple with the
registration unit. Additionally, the fingerprint scanning device
116 may be integrated with the registration unit 100A. In one
specific embodiment, the fingerprint scanning device 116 may be
integrated with a touch screen of the registration unit 100A.
Additionally, the registration unit 100A may include a smart card
reader/writer 117.
[0069] Components 112, 114, 116, and 117 may be operatively coupled
to the I/O circuit 108, and can be so coupled by either a
unidirectional or bidirectional, single-line or multiple-line data
link, which may depend on the design of the component that is used.
Additionally, components 112, 114, 116, and 117 may be connected to
the I/O circuit 108 via a respective direct line or conductor, or
different connection schemes could be used. For example, one or
more of the components shown in FIG. 4A may be connected to the I/O
circuit 108 via a common bus or other data link that is shared by a
number of components. Furthermore, some of the components may be
directly connected to the microprocessor 104 without passing
through the I/O circuit 108.
[0070] FIG. 4B is a block diagram of a second possible embodiment
100B of a registration unit 26 (FIG. 1). Referring to FIG. 4B, the
registration unit 100B may be identical to the registration unit
100A described above in connection with FIG. 4A, except that an eye
scanning device 118 may be utilized instead of the fingerprint
scanning device 116. The eye scanner 118 may be any type of device
that is capable of detecting a portion of the eye of a person, such
as the iris or retina of a person's eye, and generating digital
data representing an image of the eye or digital data representing
physical characteristics of the eye.
[0071] FIG. 4C is a block diagram of a third possible embodiment
100C of one of the registration unit 26 (FIG. 1). Referring to FIG.
4C, the registration unit 100C may be identical to the registration
unit 100A described above in connection with FIG. 4A, except that a
camera 120 may be utilized instead of the fingerprint scanner 116.
The camera 120, which may be any type of camera or a combination of
a camera and data-processing circuitry, may be used to generate a
digital image of a portion of a person, such as a person's
face.
[0072] FIG. 4D is a block diagram of a fourth possible embodiment
100D of one of the registration unit 26 (FIG. 1). Referring to FIG.
4D, the registration unit 100D may be identical to the registration
unit 100A described above in connection with FIG. 4A, except that a
voice analyzer 122 and a microphone 124 may be utilized instead of
the fingerprint scanner 116. The microphone 124 may be used to
generate a voice signal in response to detecting sound
corresponding to one or more words spoken by a person. The voice
signal could be provided to the voice analyzer 122, which could be
any type of device or circuit, such as the combination of a
sampling and analog-to-digital converter circuit or a portion of a
voice-recognition circuit, which may generate a digital voice
signature or digital data representing the unique frequency
characteristics of a person's voice. In some embodiments, the voice
signal may be provided to an analog-to-digital converter, and the
controller 101 may generate the digital voice signature or digital
data representing the unique frequency characteristics of the
person's voice.
[0073] Referring again to FIG. 1, it is to be understood that if
the gaming system 10 includes a plurality of the registration units
26, the registration units 26 may all be of the same type, or each
registration unit 26 may be of a different type. For example, some
registration units 26 may be of a type similar to those described
with reference to FIGS. 4A-4D, while others may be of a different
type.
Gaming Units
[0074] Each gaming unit 20 may be disposed in a different location,
such as a hotel room, a restaurant, an airport, a person's home,
etc. Each gaming unit 20 may be either a smart terminal, such as
casino gaming unit, a video gambling machine, a computer-based
kiosk, a personal computer, a laptop computer, a PDA, etc., or a
dumb terminal that does not include a controller.
[0075] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of one possible embodiment of
one or more of the gaming units 20. It should be understood that
the design of one or more of the gaming units 20 may be different
than the design of other gaming units 20. Some of the gaming units
20 may be any type of casino gaming unit and may have various
different structures and methods of operation. For purposes of
setting forth examples, various designs of the gaming units 20 are
described below, but it should be understood that numerous other
designs may be utilized.
[0076] Referring to FIG. 5, the casino gaming unit 20 may include a
housing or cabinet 150 and one or more input devices, which may
include a coin slot or acceptor 152, a paper currency acceptor 154,
a ticket reader/printer 156 and a card reader and/or writer
(hereinafter "card reader/writer") 158, which may be used to input
value to the gaming unit 20. A value input device may include any
device that can accept value from a customer. As used herein, the
term "value" may encompass gaming tokens, coins, paper currency,
ticket vouchers, credit or debit cards, smart cards, and any other
object representative of value.
[0077] If provided on the gaming unit 20, the ticket reader/printer
156 may be used to read and/or print or otherwise encode ticket
vouchers 160. The ticket vouchers 160 may be composed of paper or
another printable or encodable material and may have one or more of
the following informational items printed or encoded thereon: the
casino name, the type of ticket voucher, a validation number, a bar
code with control and/or security data, the date and time of
issuance of the ticket voucher, redemption instructions and
restrictions, a description of an award, and any other information
that may be necessary or desirable. Different types of ticket
vouchers 160 could be used, such as bonus ticket vouchers,
cash-redemption ticket vouchers, casino chip ticket vouchers, extra
game play ticket vouchers, merchandise ticket vouchers, restaurant
ticket vouchers, show ticket vouchers, etc. The ticket vouchers 160
could be printed with an optically readable material such as ink,
or data on the ticket vouchers 160 could be magnetically encoded.
The ticket reader/printer 156 may be provided with the ability to
both read and print ticket vouchers 160, or it may be provided with
the ability to only read or only print or encode ticket vouchers
610. In the latter case, for example, some of the gaming units 20
may have ticket printers 156 that may be used to print ticket
vouchers 160, which could then be used by a player in other gaming
units 20 that have ticket readers 156.
[0078] If provided, the card reader/writer 158 may include any type
of card reading/writing device, such as a magnetic card
reader/writer or an optical card reader/writer, and may be used to
read data from and/or write data to a card offered by a player,
such as a credit card, a smart card, a player tracking card, etc.
If provided for player tracking purposes, the card reader/writer
158 may be used to read data from, and/or write data to, player
tracking cards that are capable of storing data representing the
identity of a player, the identity of a casino, the player's gaming
habits, etc.
[0079] The gaming unit 20 may include one or more audio speakers
162, a coin payout tray 164, an input control panel 166, and a
color video display unit 170 for displaying images relating to the
game or games provided by the gaming unit 20. The audio speakers
162 may generate audio representing sounds such as the noise of
spinning slot machine reels, a dealer's voice, music, announcements
or any other audio related to a casino game. The input control
panel 166 may be provided with a plurality of pushbuttons or
touch-sensitive areas that may be pressed by a player to select
games, make wagers, make gaming decisions, etc.
[0080] FIG. 5A illustrates one possible embodiment of the control
panel 166, which may be used where the gaming unit 20 may be a slot
machine having a plurality of mechanical or "virtual" reels.
Referring to FIG. 5A, the control panel 166 may include a "See
Pays" button 172 that, when activated, causes the display unit 170
to generate one or more display screens showing the odds or payout
information for the game or games provided by the gaming unit 20.
As used herein, the term "button" is intended to encompass any
device that allows a player to make an input, such as an input
device that must be depressed to make an input selection or a
display area that a player may simply touch. The control panel 166
may include a "Cash Out" button 174 that may be activated when a
player decides to terminate play on the gaming unit 20, in which
case the gaming unit 20 may return value to the player, such as by
returning a number of coins to the player via the payout tray
164.
[0081] If the gaming unit 20 provides a slots game having a
plurality of reels and a plurality of paylines which define winning
combinations of reel symbols, the control panel 166 may be provided
with a plurality of selection buttons 176, each of which allows the
player to select a different number of paylines prior to spinning
the reels. For example, five buttons 176 may be provided, each of
which may allow a player to select one, three, five, seven or nine
paylines.
[0082] If the gaming unit 20 provides a slots game having a
plurality of reels, the control panel 166 may be provided with a
plurality of selection buttons 178 each of which allows a player to
specify a wager amount for each payline selected. For example, if
the smallest wager accepted by the gaming unit 20 is a quarter
($0.25), the gaming unit 20 may be provided with five selection
buttons 178, each of which may allow a player to select one, two,
three, four or five quarters to wager for each payline selected. In
that case, if a player were to activate the "5" button 176 (meaning
that five paylines were to be played on the next spin of the reels)
and then activate the "3" button 178 (meaning that three coins per
payline were to be wagered), the total wager would be $3.75
(assuming the minimum bet was $0.25).
[0083] The control panel 166 may include a "Max Bet" button 180 to
allow a player to make the maximum wager allowable for a game. In
the above example, where up to nine paylines were provided and up
to five quarters could be wagered for each payline selected, the
maximum wager would be 45 quarters, or $11.25. The control panel
166 may include a spin button 182 to allow the player to initiate
spinning of the reels of a slots game after a wager has been
made.
[0084] In FIG. 5A, a rectangle is shown around the buttons 172,
174, 176, 178, 180, 182. It should be understood that that
rectangle simply designates, for ease of reference, an area in
which the buttons 172, 174, 176, 178, 180, 182 may be located.
Consequently, the term "control panel" should not be construed to
imply that a panel or plate separate from the housing 150 of the
gaming unit 20 is required, and the term "control panel" may
encompass a plurality or grouping of player activatable
buttons.
[0085] Although one possible control panel 166 is described above,
it should be understood that different buttons could be utilized in
the control panel 166, and that the particular buttons used may
depend on the game or games that could be played on the gaming unit
20. Although the control panel 166 is shown to be separate from the
display unit 170, it should be understood that the control panel
166 could be generated by the display unit 170. In that case, each
of the buttons of the control panel 166 could be a colored area
generated by the display unit 170, and some type of mechanism may
be associated with the display unit 170 to detect when each of the
buttons was touched, such as a touch-sensitive screen.
[0086] The gaming unit 20 may also include, or be operatively
coupled with, a biometric device (not shown in FIG. 5) for
submitting biometric data. The biometric device may be, for
example, a fingerprint scanning device, an eye scanning device, a
facial recognition device, a voice recognition device, etc. The
biometric device may include a mechanism for providing feedback to
a user. For example, a fingerprint scanning device may include a
light that goes on while a scan is taking place. As another
example, a fingerprint scanning device may include a speaker that
generates a "beep" when a scan is completed. In other embodiments,
display unit 170 and/or audio speakers 162 may be used to provide
feedback to a user regarding the biometric device. For example,
when a fingerprint scan is completed, a message may be displayed on
display 170, or a sound generated by audio speakers 162, indicating
to the user that the scan has been completed.
[0087] In some embodiments, the gaming unit 20 may include a slot,
port, connector, etc., (not shown in FIG. 5) configured to accept a
biometric device. In these embodiments, a biometric device can be
removably coupled to the gaming unit 20 via the slot, port,
connector, etc. For instance, a biometric device configured to
removably couple with a gaming unit 20 can be given to, registered
to, sold to, rented to, etc., a user. Then, when a user desires to
play a game on a gaming unit 20, the user could "plug in" the
biometric device to the gaming unit 20 and submit biometric data to
gain access to games.
[0088] In one embodiment, a smart card may include a biometric
device (e.g., a fingerprint scanner) for obtaining biometric data
from a person, and the card reader/writer 158 could be configured
to accept the smart card with the biometric device.
[0089] In other embodiments, the biometric device 116 may be
integrated with the gaming unit 20. For example, a fingerprint
scanning device may be integrated with a touch screen, a keyboard,
a button, a handle, etc., of the gaming unit 20. In one embodiment,
a fingerprint scanning device may be integrated with a button, area
of a touch screen, area of a control panel, handle, etc.,
corresponding to a "spin," "deal," "hit," "play," etc., selection
on the gaming unit 20.
[0090] In some embodiments, submission of biometric data may
correspond to a player's choice to play a game. For example, if a
fingerprint scanner is integrated with a button, area of a touch
screen, area of a control panel, a handle, etc. corresponding to a
spin selection for a reel-type game, submission to a fingerprint
scan may indicate the user's choice to spin.
[0091] Further, the gaming unit 20 may include, or be operatively
coupled with, a location device (not shown in FIG. 5) that
generates data indicating its location. The location device could
be, for example, a GPS device, a Loran-C device, etc. In some
embodiments, the gaming unit 20 may include a slot, port,
connector, etc., (not shown in FIG. 5) configured to accept a
location device. In these embodiments, a location device can be
removably coupled to the gaming unit 20 via the slot, port,
connector, etc. For instance, a location device configured to
removably couple with a gaming unit 20 can be given to, registered
to, sold to, rented to, etc., a user. Then, when a user desires to
play a game on a gaming unit 20, the user could "plug in" the
location device to the gaming unit 20 to gain access to games.
Gaming Unit Electronics
[0092] FIG. 6 is a block diagram of a number of components that may
be incorporated in the gaming unit 20. Referring to FIG. 6, the
gaming unit 20 may include a controller 200 that may comprise a
program memory 202, a microcontroller or microprocessor (MP) 204, a
random-access memory (RAM) 206 and an input/output (I/O) circuit
208, all of which may be interconnected via an address/data bus
210. It should be appreciated that although only one microprocessor
204 is shown, the controller 200 may include multiple
microprocessors 204. Similarly, the memory of the controller 200
may include multiple RAMs 206 and multiple program memories 202.
Although the I/O circuit 208 is shown as a single block, it should
be appreciated that the I/O circuit 208 may include a number of
different types of I/O circuits. The RAM(s) 204 and program
memories 202 may be implemented as semiconductor memories,
magnetically readable memories, and/or optically readable memories,
for example.
[0093] Program memory 202 may be a read-only memory (ROM), or a
read/write or alterable memory, such as a hard disk. In the event a
hard disk is used as a program memory, the address/data bus 210
shown schematically in FIG. 6 may comprise multiple address/data
buses, which may be of different types, and there may be an I/O
circuit disposed between the address/data buses. The network data
link 24, 64, 66 may be operatively coupled to the I/O circuit
208.
[0094] FIG. 6 illustrates that the control panel 166, the coin
acceptor 152, the bill acceptor 154, the card reader/writer 158 the
ticket reader/printer 156, and the display device 170 may be
operatively coupled to the I/O circuit 208, each of those
components being so coupled by either a unidirectional or
bidirectional, single-line or multiple-line data link, which may
depend on the design of the component that is used. The speaker(s)
162 may be operatively coupled to a sound circuit 212, that may
comprise a voice- and sound-synthesis circuit or that may comprise
a driver circuit. The sound-generating circuit 212 may be coupled
to the I/O circuit 208. Additionally, a biometric device 214 and a
position sensing device 216 each may be operatively coupled to the
I/O circuit 208, each of those components being so coupled by
either a unidirectional or bidirectional, single-line or
multiple-line data link, which may depend on the design of the
component that is used.
[0095] As shown in FIG. 6, the components 152, 154, 156, 158, 166,
170, 212, 214, and 216 may be connected to the I/O circuit 208 via
a respective direct line or conductor. Different connection schemes
could be used. For example, one or more of the components shown in
FIG. 6 may be connected to the I/O circuit 208 via a common bus or
other data link that may be shared by a number of components.
Furthermore, some of the components may be directly connected to
the microprocessor 204 without passing through the I/O circuit
208.
Other Types of Gaming Units
[0096] It is to be understood that the gaming units 20 may be of
the same type or each may be of different types. Generally, the
location at which the gaming unit 20 may be used may be a factor in
selecting the type of gaming unit. For example, a gaming unit 20 of
a type similar to that described with reference to FIG. 5 may be
desirable for some locations (e.g., a casino, an airport, an
off-track betting facility, etc.) but may not be desirable for
others (e.g., a private residence, a hotel room, a restaurant,
etc.). Some types may include many components, such as components
152, 154, 156, 158, 162, 166, 170, 212, 214, and 216, while other
types may include a lesser number of components. For instance, some
gaming units 20 may be designed to be free-standing and include
many components, while others may be designed for a desk top or
counter top and include only a few components. In one specific
example, a gaming unit 20 may be a personal computer.
[0097] Some gaming units 20 may be of a type similar to the
registration units 26 described with reference to FIGS. 4A-4D.
Further, some gaming units 20 may be identical, or substantially
identical, to the registration units 26. Moreover, some gaming
units 20 may also serve as registration units 26.
Authentication Server
[0098] FIG. 7 is a simplified block diagram illustrating a number
of components that may be incorporated in one embodiment of an
authentication server. The authentication server 58 may include a
controller 301 that may comprise a program memory 302, a
microcontroller or microprocessor (MP) 304, a random-access memory
(RAM) 306 and an input/output (I/O) circuit 308, all of which may
be interconnected via an address/data bus 310. It should be
appreciated that although only one microprocessor 304 is shown, the
controller 301 may include multiple microprocessors 304. Similarly,
the memory of the controller 301 may include multiple RAMs 306 and
multiple program memories 302. Although the I/O circuit 308 is
shown as a single block, it should be appreciated that the I/O
circuit 308 may include a number of different types of I/O
circuits. RAM(s) 304 and program memories 302 may be implemented as
semiconductor memories, magnetically readable memories, and/or
optically readable memories, for example.
[0099] Program memory 302 may be a read-only memory (ROM), or a
read/write or alterable memory, such as a hard disk. In the event a
hard disk is used as a program memory, the address/data bus 310
shown schematically in FIG. 7 may comprise multiple address/data
buses, which may be of different types, and there may be an I/O
circuit disposed between the address/data buses. The network data
link 60 may be operatively coupled to the I/O circuit 308. Although
only one network data link 60 is shown, it is to be understood the
authentication server 58 may be coupled to multiple network data
links.
[0100] The authentication server 58 may include a display unit 312,
which may be any type of display unit such as a cathode-ray tube
(CRT), a flat panel display, etc. Additionally, the authentication
server 58 may include one or more input devices 314 such as a
keyboard, mouse, etc. Also, the authentication server 58 may
include a server operating system.
[0101] Components 312, 314, may be operatively coupled to the I/O
circuit 308, and can be so coupled by either a unidirectional or
bidirectional, single-line or multiple-line data link, which may
depend on the design of the component that is used. Additionally,
components 312, 314, may be connected to the I/O circuit 308 via a
respective direct line or conductor, or different connection
schemes could be used. For example, one or more of the components
shown in FIG. 7 may be connected to the I/O circuit 308 via a
common bus or other data link that may be shared by a number of
components. Furthermore, some of the components may be directly
connected to the microprocessor 304 without passing through the I/O
circuit 308.
[0102] Additionally, the authentication server 58 may be
operatively coupled to a registration database (not shown) via a
data link 316. Data link 316 may be operatively coupled with the
I/O circuit 308 via a dedicated link 316, or different connection
schemes could be used. For example, the data link 316 may be a
common bus or other data link that shared by a number of
components, and/or shared with data link 60. Furthermore, the data
link 316 may be directly connected to the microprocessor 304
without passing through the I/O circuit 308.
Website Server
[0103] FIG. 8 is a simplified block diagram illustrating a number
of components that may be incorporated in one embodiment of an
authentication server. The website server 50 may include a
controller 351 that may comprise a program memory 352, a
microcontroller or microprocessor (MP) 354, a random-access memory
(RAM) 356 and an input/output (I/O) circuit 358, all of which may
be interconnected via an address/data bus 360. It should be
appreciated that although only one microprocessor 354 is shown, the
controller 351 may include multiple microprocessors 354. Similarly,
the memory of the controller 351 may include multiple RAMs 356 and
multiple program memories 352. Although the I/O circuit 358 is
shown as a single block, it should be appreciated that the I/O
circuit 358 may include a number of different types of I/O
circuits. RAM(s) 354 and program memories 352 may be implemented as
semiconductor memories, magnetically readable memories, and/or
optically readable memories, for example.
[0104] Program memory 352 may be a ROM, or a read/write or
alterable memory, such as a hard disk. In the event a hard disk is
used as a program memory, the address/data bus 360 shown
schematically in FIG. 8 may comprise multiple address/data buses,
which may be of different types, and there may be an I/O circuit
disposed between the address/data buses. The network data link 56
is operatively coupled to the I/O circuit 358. Although only one
network data link 56 is shown, it is to be understood the website
server 50 may be coupled to multiple network data links.
[0105] The website server 50 may include a display unit 362, which
may be any type of display unit such as a CRT, a flat panel
display, etc. Additionally, the website server 50 may include one
or more input devices 364 such as a keyboard, mouse, etc. Also, the
website server 50 may include a server operating system.
[0106] Components 362, 364, may be operatively coupled to the I/O
circuit 358, and can be so coupled by either a unidirectional or
bidirectional, single-line or multiple-line data link, which may
depend on the design of the component that is used. Additionally,
components 362, 364, may be connected to the I/O circuit 358 via a
respective direct line or conductor, or different connection
schemes could be used. For example, one or more of the components
shown in FIG. 8 may be connected to the I/O circuit 358 via a
common bus or other data link that may be shared by a number of
components. Furthermore, some of the components may be directly
connected to the microprocessor 354 without passing through the I/O
circuit 358.
Gaming Servers
[0107] Although one possible embodiment of one of the gaming server
52 is described below in connection with FIG. 9, it should be
understood that, if multiple gaming servers 52 are employed, the
structure of the gaming servers 52 could be different than that
described and that each gaming server 52 could have a different
structure.
[0108] FIG. 9 is a simplified block diagram illustrating a number
of components that may be incorporated in one embodiment of a
gaming server. The gaming server 52 may include a controller 401
that may comprise a program memory 402, a microcontroller or
microprocessor (MP) 404, a random-access memory (RAM) 406 and an
input/output (I/O) circuit 408, all of which may be interconnected
via an address/data bus 410. It should be appreciated that although
only one microprocessor 404 is shown, the controller 401 may
include multiple microprocessors 404. Similarly, the memory of the
controller 401 may include multiple RAMs 406 and multiple program
memories 402. Although the I/O circuit 408 is shown as a single
block, it should be appreciated that the I/O circuit 408 may
include a number of different types of I/O circuits. RAM(s) 404 and
program memories 402 may be implemented as semiconductor memories,
magnetically readable memories, and/or optically readable memories,
for example.
[0109] Program memory 402 may be a read-only memory (ROM), or a
read/write or alterable memory, such as a hard disk. In the event a
hard disk is used as a program memory, the address/data bus 410
shown schematically in FIG. 9 may comprise multiple address/data
buses, which may be of different types, and there may be an I/O
circuit disposed between the address/data buses. The network data
link 54 may be operatively coupled to the I/O circuit 408. Although
only one network data link 54 is shown, it is to be understood that
the gaming server 52 may be coupled to multiple network data
links.
[0110] The gaming server 52 may include a display unit 412, which
may be any type of display unit such as a CRT, a flat panel
display, etc. Additionally, the gaming server 52 may include one or
more input devices 414 such as a keyboard, mouse, etc. Also, the
gaming server 52 may include a server operating system.
[0111] Components 412, 414, may be operatively coupled to the I/O
circuit 408, and can be so coupled by either a unidirectional or
bidirectional, single-line or multiple-line data link, which may
depend on the design of the component that is used. Additionally,
components 412, 414, may be connected to the I/O circuit 408 via a
respective direct line or conductor, or different connection
schemes could be used. For example, one or more of the components
shown in FIG. 9 may be connected to the I/O circuit 408 via a
common bus or other data link that is shared by a number of
components. Furthermore, some of the components may be directly
connected to the microprocessor 404 without passing through the I/O
circuit 408.
Network Computer
[0112] FIG. 10 is a simplified block diagram illustrating a number
of components that may be incorporated in one embodiment of a
network computer. The network computer 22 may include a controller
451 that may comprise a program memory 452, a microcontroller or
microprocessor (MP) 454, a random-access memory (RAM) 456 and an
input/output (I/O) circuit 458, all of which may be interconnected
via an address/data bus 460. It should be appreciated that although
only one microprocessor 454 is shown, the controller 451 may
include multiple microprocessors 454. Similarly, the memory of the
controller 451 may include multiple RAMs 456 and multiple program
memories 452. Although the I/O circuit 458 is shown as a single
block, it should be appreciated that the I/O circuit 458 may
include a number of different types of I/O circuits. RAM(s) 454 and
program memories 452 may be implemented as semiconductor memories,
magnetically readable memories, and/or optically readable memories,
for example.
[0113] Program memory 452 may be a ROM, or a read/write or
alterable memory, such as a hard disk. In the event a hard disk is
used as a program memory, the address/data bus 460 shown
schematically in FIG. 10 may comprise multiple address/data buses,
which may be of different types, and there may be an I/O circuit
disposed between the address/data buses. The network data link 24
may be operatively coupled to the I/O circuit 458. Although only
one network data link 24 is shown, it is to be understood the
network computer 22 may be coupled to multiple network data
links.
[0114] The network computer 22 may include a display unit 462,
which may be any type of display unit such as a CRT, a flat panel
display, etc. Additionally, the network computer 22 may include one
or more input devices 464 such as a keyboard, mouse, etc.
[0115] Components 462, 464, may be operatively coupled to the I/O
circuit 458, and can be so coupled by either a unidirectional or
bidirectional, single-line or multiple-line data link, which may
depend on the design of the component that is used. Additionally,
components 462, 464, may be connected to the I/O circuit 458 via a
respective direct line or conductor, or different connection
schemes could be used. For example, one or more of the components
shown in FIG. 10 may be connected to the I/O circuit 458 via a
common bus or other data link that may be shared by a number of
components. Furthermore, some of the components may be directly
connected to the microprocessor 454 without passing through the I/O
circuit 458.
Registration Unit Operation
[0116] One manner in which a registration unit 26 may operate is
described below in connection with a number of flowcharts which
represent a number of portions or routines of one or more computer
programs, which may be stored in one or more of the memories 102,
106 of the registration unit 100A, 100B, 100C, or 100D (FIGS.
4A-4D). The computer program portions may be written in any high
level language such as C, C+, C++ or the like or any low-level,
assembly or machine language. By storing the computer program
portions therein, various portions of the memories 102, 106 are
physically and/or structurally configured in accordance with
computer program instructions. Additionally, it is to be understood
that the computer program portions or routines may be implemented
via display data (e.g., web pages, etc.) supplied to a registration
unit 26, for example, by the network computer 22, the website
server 50, or the authentication server 58 (FIG. 1).
[0117] FIG. 11 is a flowchart of one possible embodiment of an
operation software routine 500 that may be performed by a
registration unit 26. The flowchart will be described with
reference to FIGS. 1, 4A, and 12. At block 502, a user may be
prompted to enter personal data. As one example, a registration
display could be displayed on display unit 112. One example of a
registration display 520 that could be displayed on display unit
112 is shown in FIG. 12. Registration display 520 could include a
data entry box 522 for entry of the first name of a person wishing
to register, a data entry box 524 for entry of the last name of the
person, a data entry box 526 for entry of the date of birth of the
person, a data entry box 528 for entry of a credit card number of
the person, and a data entry box 530 for entry of the credit card's
expiration date. The registration display 520 could also include a
submit button 532 which can be used by the user to submit the data.
The registration display 520 could be generated by software running
on the registration unit 100A. Also, the registration display 520
could be received as display data (e.g., as a web page) from, for
example, the network computer 22, the website server 50, or the
authentication server 58 (FIG. 1).
[0118] Other personal data that may be obtained via a registration
display such as registration display 520 could include a desired
login id, a password, a mailing address, an email address, a phone
number, etc.
[0119] In other embodiments, some or all of the information asked
for in the example registration display 520 could be read from a
smart card of the person provided any of this information is stored
on the smart card.
[0120] At block 504, it may be determined whether the personal data
has been received. If no, the routine may branch back to block 502
to await, or prompt the user, for further personal data. At block
508, the user may be prompted to submit biometric data. For the
registration units 26 that include a fingerprint scanner, such as
registration unit 100A of FIG. 4A, a display could be displayed on
display unit 112 that asks user to put a finger on the fingerprint
scanner. Such a display could be generated by software running on
the registration unit 100A. Also, the registration display 520
could be received as display data (e.g., as a web page) from, for
example, the network computer 22 (FIG. 1), or the website server 50
(FIG. 1).
[0121] At block 510 it may be determined whether the biometric data
has been received. For registration units 26 that include a
fingerprint scanner, such as registration unit 100A of FIG. 4A,
controller 101 could determine whether data representative of a
fingerprint had been received from fingerprint scanner 116. If the
biometric has not been received, the routine may branch back to
wait for the data.
[0122] The personal data and/or biometric data can be encrypted, or
a digital signature can be applied to the data, at block 512. This
would help to ensure that the data came from a reliable source, and
thus help to increase the security of the overall system. This
block may be omitted if desired. The biometric data could be
encrypted, or a digital signature could be applied to it, by the
controller 101, the biometric device (e.g., fingerprint scanning
device 116 (FIG. 4A), eye scanning device 118 (FIG. 4B), etc.), or
some other device, and can be implemented via software, firmware,
hardware, or some combination thereof.
[0123] At block 514, the biometric data and the personal data are
stored. The data can be stored, for example, in memory (e.g., a
hard disk) of the registration unit 26. In embodiments that include
a smart card reader/writer 117, the data can be stored on a smart
card. In embodiments that include a network computer 22, the data
can be transmitted to the network computer 22 for storage. The data
may be transmitted, for example, via the network data link 24. In
embodiments that include an authentication server 58, the data can
be transmitted to the authentication server 58 for storage. The
data may be transmitted, for example, via the network data links 24
or 70, the network 40, and the network data link 60. It is to be
understood that the data need not be stored in one location. For
example, in embodiments that include a network computer 22, the
data could be stored at the registration unit 26 and transmitted to
the network 22 for storage. Also, the biometric data and some of
the personal data could be stored at the registration unit 26, and
some or all of the personal data could be transmitted to the
network computer 22 for storage.
[0124] It is to be understood that the operations represented by
the blocks of FIG. 11 need not be performed at one time, or by one
registration unit 26. For example, a user could submit personal
data (blocks 502 and 504) at a first time. Then, at a later time,
the user could submit the biometric data (blocks 508 and 510). In
this example, steps 512 and 514 could be performed twice: once for
the personal data and once for the biometric data.
[0125] As another example, a user could submit personal data
(blocks 502 and 504) from a personal computer (registration unit)
at the user's residence, via a website served by the website server
50 or the authentication server 58 (FIG. 1). Then, the website
could instruct the user to go to a specific location (e.g., a
casino) to submit biometric data. At a later time, the user could
visit the specified location to submit the biometric data. If at a
casino, a casino employee could verify the identity of the person,
verify the personal data previously submitted by the person, and
then operate a registration unit 26 to obtain the person's
biometric data (blocks 508 and 510) and transmit it to the
authentication server 58 (block 514).
[0126] FIG. 13 is a flowchart of one possible embodiment of an
operation software routine 550 that may be performed by a
registration unit 100A (FIG. 4A) to obtain a fingerprint scan of a
user. The routine 550 may be part of a computer program, which may
be stored in the program memory 102 (FIG. 4A) of any of the
registration units 26 (FIG. 1), that controls the operation of the
registration units 26 to generate biometric data related to a
person. The routine 550 may be used by the registration units 100A
(FIG. 4A) having, or configured to operatively couple with,
fingerprint scanning devices 116 described above in connection with
FIG. 4A. Similar routines may be used with the registration units
100B-100D (FIGS. 4B-4D). The routine 550 may attempt to generate
digital data that uniquely represents the physical characteristics
of a person, such as a person's fingerprint, and thus uniquely
identifies the person.
[0127] At block 552, the controller 101 of the registration unit
100A may cause the display unit 112 to display a visual message
that prompts the user to place his or her finger on a scanner of
fingerprint scanning device 116, for example. At block 554, the
fingerprint scanning device 116 may scan the person's fingerprint
and generate digital data representing the person's fingerprint, as
described above. At block 556, the digital data representing the
person's fingerprint may be stored, for example, in the memory 106
of the registration unit 100A.
[0128] Blocks 552-556 may be repeated a number of times, if
desired, to generate digital data representing a composite
fingerprint scan, which may be generated by averaging each set of
digital fingerprint data, for example. Performing multiple scans
may increase the reliability and/or accuracy of the scan data. If
multiple scans are not used, the operation represented by blocks
558 and 560 may be omitted.
[0129] If multiple scans are used to generate data representing a
composite scan, at block 558 the controller 101 may determine
whether all of the scans have been made. That determination may be
made, for example, simply by determining whether a predetermined
number of scans has been made, such as five scans. If all of the
scans have not been made, the program may branch back to block 552
so that another scan may be performed. If all the scans have been
made, the controller 101 may determine a composite scan based on
all the scans made, such as by averaging the digital data for each
scan. Such an average could be made, for example, by averaging the
pixel intensity of each set of scan data on a pixel-by-pixel
basis.
[0130] Although the enrollment routine 550 has been described above
in connection with the fingerprint scanning device 116 of FIG. 4A,
it should be understood that the same or a similar routine could be
used to "train" the system to recognize other unique physical
characteristics of a person, such as a person's eye, face or voice
as described above.
[0131] For example, if the routine 550 is used in connection with
the registration unit 100A having the voice analyzer 122 and the
microphone 124 (FIG. 4D), at block 554, instead of performing a
scan of a person's fingerprint, the person may speak into the
microphone 124, and the voice analyzer 122 may generate a set of
digital data represented the spoken word or words. That digital
voice data may be treated and processed by the routine 550 in the
same (or a similar) manner as the digital fingerprint data as
described above.
[0132] In other embodiments, a person may be prompted to scan
multiple fingers, and/or to provide different types of biometric
data. For example, a person may be prompted to submit one or more
fingerprint scans and a retinal scan. One of ordinary skill in the
art will recognize many possible variations.
Gaming Unit Operation
[0133] One manner in which a gaming unit 20 may operate is
described below in connection with a number of flowcharts which
represent a number of portions or routines of one or more computer
programs, which may be stored in one or more of the memories 202,
206 of the gaming unit 20. The computer program portions may be
written in any high level language such as C, C+, C++ or the like
or any low-level, assembly or machine language. By storing the
computer program portions therein, various portions of the memories
202, 206 are physically and/or structurally configured in
accordance with computer program instructions. Additionally, it is
to be understood that the computer program portions or routines may
be implemented via web pages supplied to a gaming unit 20 by, for
example, the network computer 22, the website server 50, the gaming
server 52, or the authentication server 58 (FIG. 1).
Main Routine
[0134] FIG. 14 is a flowchart of one possible embodiment of an
operation software routine 600 that may be performed by a gaming
unit 20, and will be described with reference to FIG. 1. At block
602, data may be obtained including personal data of the user. This
data may include, for example, a name, a login id, etc. The data
may be obtained, for example, by prompting the user to submit the
data via a keyboard or touch screen. In embodiments of gaming units
20 that include a smart card reader/writer, the data may be
obtained from a smart card inserted by the user. The data obtained
at block 602 may be used, for example, to locate, in a database,
the biometric data that the user submitted while registering for
the gaming service. Block 602 is optional and may be omitted if
desired.
[0135] At block 604, data may be obtained from the user including
biometric data. Examples of techniques for obtaining biometric
data, personal data, and location data will be described below. At
block 606, data related to the location of the gaming unit 20 may
be obtained. Block 606 is optional and may be omitted if
desired.
[0136] In embodiments that employ positioning data, at block 608,
it may be determined whether the position data obtained at block
606 indicates that the gaming unit 20 is in a location in which
playing games via the gaming system 10 is permitted. If no, the
routine may branch back to block 602. If the location is permitted,
the routine may proceed to block 610; In some embodiments, block
608 may be implemented at the gaming unit 20. In other embodiments,
block 608 may be implemented in conjunction with the authentication
server 58. For example, the gaming unit 20 may transmit the
position data to the authentication server 58. Then, the
authentication server 58 may determine whether the location of the
gaming unit is a permitted location. Next, the authentication
server 58 may transmit a message to the gaming unit 20 that
indicates whether the position is permitted. Similarly, block 608
may be implemented in conjunction with the network computer 22, the
gaming server 52, the website server 50, etc.
[0137] At block 610, the biometric data obtained at block 604 may
be compared with biometric data previously obtained during
registration to determine if it matches. In some embodiments, block
610 may be implemented at the gaming unit 20. For example, the
gaming unit 20 could be operatively coupled with a smart card
reader/writer. In this example, the user could insert into the
smart card reader/writer a smart card that included a registered
user's biometric data. Then, the gaming unit 20 could compare the
biometric data obtained at block 604 with the biometric data of the
registered user stored on the smart card.
[0138] Additionally, block 610 could be implemented in conjunction
with the authentication server 58. For example, the gaming unit 20
may transmit the biometric data obtained at block 604 to the
authentication server 58. Then, the authentication server 58 can
determine whether the received biometric data matches biometric
data of a registered user. Next, the authentication server 58 may
transmit a message to the gaming unit 20 that indicates whether the
user is permitted to play a game. Similarly, block 610 may be
implemented in conjunction with the network computer 22, the gaming
server 52, the website server 50, etc.
[0139] If at block 610 it may be determined that the biometric data
obtained at block 604 matches that of a registered user, control
may pass to block 612. Otherwise, control may pass to block 602. At
block 612, the user may be provided access to play a game on the
gaming system 10.
[0140] At block 606, the authentication server 58 may or may not
grant the user access to the gaming service in response to the data
transmitted at block 604. If the authentication server 58 does not
grant access, the routine may return to block 602 to await new
data.
Obtain Biometric Data
[0141] FIG. 15 is a flowchart of one possible embodiment of an
operation software routine 620 that may be performed by a gaming
unit 20. The routine 620 can be used to obtain data from a user in
order to authenticate the user, and will be described with
reference to FIGS. 1 and 6. At block 622, a user may be prompted to
enter personal data. As one example, the user could be prompted,
via display unit 170, to enter personal data (e.g., a logon id, a
last name, etc.) that can be used to identify a record of a
registered user. Such a display could be generated by software
running on the gaming unit 20. Also, the registration display 520
could be received as display data (e.g., as a web page) from, for
example, the network computer 22, the website server 50, the
authentication server 58 (FIG. 1), etc.
[0142] At block 624, it may be determined whether the personal data
has been received. If no, the routine may branch back to block 622
to await, or prompt the user, for further personal data. At block
626, the user may be prompted to submit biometric data. For gaming
units that include a fingerprint scanner, such as the gaming unit
20 of FIG. 6, a display could be displayed on display unit 170 that
asks user to put a finger on the fingerprint scanner. Such a
display could be generated by software running on the gaming unit
20. Also, the display could be received as display data (e.g., as a
web page) from, for example, the network computer 22, the website
server 50, the authentication server 58 (FIG. 1), etc.
[0143] At block 628 it may be determined whether the biometric data
has been received. For gaming units that include a fingerprint
scanner, such as the gaming unit 20 of FIG. 6, controller 200 could
determine whether data representative of a fingerprint had been
received from the fingerprint scanner. If the biometric data has
not been received, the routine may branch back to wait for the
data.
[0144] The personal data and/or biometric data can be encrypted, or
a digital signature can be applied to the data, at block 630. This
would help to ensure that the data came from a reliable source, and
thus help to increase the security of the overall system. This
block may be omitted if desired. The biometric data could be
encrypted, or a digital signature could be applied to it, by the
controller 200, the biometric device 214, or some other device, and
can be implemented via software, firmware, hardware, or some
combination thereof.
[0145] It is to be understood that, in some embodiments, personal
data obtained at block 622 may not be needed for authentication.
For example, authentication can be accomplished using only
biometric data. Thus, blocks 622 and 624 can be omitted, and at
block 612, only biometric data may be transmitted to the
authentication server 58. Also, as will be described below, a user
may be required to authenticate him or herself several times while
playing a game. In these examples, the personal data obtained at
blocks 622 and 624 need only be obtained once. Thus, in operation,
blocks 622 and 624 may be performed once during the playing of a
game, and omitted in subsequent authentications during the
game.
Obtain Location Data
[0146] FIG. 16 is a flowchart of one possible embodiment of an
operation software routine 650 that may be performed by a gaming
unit 20. The routine 650 can be used to obtain information
regarding the location of the gaming unit 20, and will be described
with reference to FIGS. 1 and 6. It is to be understood that, in
some embodiments, the routine 650, or a similar routine, need not
be implemented. For instance, in some embodiments, authentication
of the location of the gaming unit 20 may not be needed. In other
embodiments, location of the gaming unit 20 can be obtained by
means that do not employ a location system operatively coupled with
the gaming unit 20, an example of which will be described
below.
[0147] At block 652, the gaming unit 20 obtains location data from
the location sensing device 216. At block 654, the location data
may be encrypted, or a digital signature may be applied to it. This
would help to ensure that the location data came from a reliable
source, and thus help to increase the security of the overall
system. This block may be omitted if desired. Block 654 can be
implemented, for example, by the controller 200, the location
sensing device 216, or some other device, and can be implemented
via software, firmware, hardware, or some combination thereof.
Authentication Server Operation
[0148] One manner in which the authentication server 58 may operate
is describe below in connection with flowcharts that represent a
number of portions or routines of one or more computer programs,
which may be stored in one or more of the memories 302, 306 of the
authentication server controller 301. The computer program portions
may be written in any high level language such as C, C+, C++ or the
like or any low-level, assembly or machine language. By storing the
computer program portions therein, various portions of the memories
302, 306 are physically and/or structurally configured in
accordance with computer program instructions.
Register User
[0149] The manner of operation described below will be described
with reference to FIGS. 1 and 7. FIG. 17 is a flowchart of one
possible embodiment of an operation software routine 700 that may
be performed by the authentication server 58. The routine 700 can
be used to register a user who desires to play games via a gaming
system.
[0150] At block 702, the authentication server 58 receives the
personal data and biometric data transmitted by a registration unit
26. It is to be understood that the personal data and biometric
data need not be received at the same time, or from only one
registration unit 26. Rather, as described previously, the
authentication server 58 can receive the data at multiple points in
time, and can receive the data from multiple registration units
26.
[0151] In embodiments in which the personal data and/or biometric
data has been encrypted, and/or a digital signature applied to it,
the authentication server 58, at block 704, can decrypt the data
and/or examine the digital signature to help determine if the data
was received from a reliable source or sources. Block 704 can be
implemented, for example, by the controller 301 or some other
device, and can be implemented via software, firmware, hardware, or
some combination thereof.
[0152] If at block 704, it may be determined that the received data
is not authentic, the authentication server 58 may, at block 706,
transmit a failure message to the registration unit or units 26
from which the data was received. The failure message may indicate
that the authentication server 58 was unable to register the user,
and may also indicate that it could not authenticate the data.
[0153] If, at block 704, it may be determined that the personal
data and/or biometric data is authentic, then the flow may proceed
to block 708. In other embodiments, blocks 704 and 706 can be
omitted. For example, blocks 704 and 706 can be omitted if the
personal data and biometric data are not encrypted, or a digital
signature is not applied to the data, prior to its receipt by the
authentication server 58.
[0154] At block 708, the received personal data and biometric data
are stored in the registration database. The registration database
can be any type of suitable database such as a commercially
available database from Oracle, Sybase, Microsoft, IBM, etc. It is
to be understood that the personal data and biometric data need not
be received and stored at the same time. For example, the personal
data may be received at one time and the biometric data may be
received at a later time. In this example, the personal data can be
stored first, and the biometric data can be stored later, after it
is received.
Check Location
[0155] The manner of operation described below will be described
with reference to FIGS. 1 and 7. FIG. 18 is a flowchart of one
possible embodiment of an operation software routine 750 that may
be performed by the authentication server 58. The routine 750 can
be used to determine whether the location of the gaming unit is a
location at which playing games via the gaming system is
permitted.
[0156] At block 752, the authentication server 58 receives data
indicative of the location of a gaming unit. The location data can
be, for example, an internet protocol (IP) address, location data
from a positioning device coupled with the gaming unit, etc.
[0157] In embodiments in which location data has been encrypted,
and/or a digital signature applied to it, the authentication server
58, at block 754, can decrypt the data and/or examine the digital
signature to help determine if the data was received from a
reliable source or sources. Block 754 can be implemented, for
example, by the controller 301 or some other device, and can be
implemented via software, firmware, hardware, or some combination
thereof.
[0158] If at block 754, it may be determined that the received data
is not authentic, the authentication server 58 may, at block 756,
transmit a denial message to the gaming unit. The denial message
may indicate, for example, that the authentication server 58
determined that the location data was not authentic.
[0159] If, at block 754, it may be determined that the location
data is authentic, then control may pass to block 758. In other
embodiments, block 754 can be omitted, if, for example, the
location data are not encrypted, or a digital signature is not
applied to the data, prior to its receipt by the authentication
server 58.
[0160] At block 758, it may be determined whether the location data
indicates the gaming unit is at a permitted location. In
embodiments in which the location data includes an IP address of
the gaming unit, the gaming unit IP address, for example, can be
compared to a list of permitted IP addresses. Also, the IP address,
for example, can be mapped to a geographic area, and the geographic
area compared with permitted geographic areas.
[0161] In embodiments in which the location data includes
geographic position information, the geographic position
information, for example, can be compared with permitted geographic
areas. In embodiments in which the location data includes
in-building position information, the in-building position
information can be compared with permitted in-building areas. For
instance, the in-building position information may indicate that
the gaming unit is outside the building, whereas playing games may
only be permitted within the building.
[0162] If it is determined that the location data indicates the
gaming unit is not in a permitted location, control may pass to
block 756. At block 756, the authentication server 58 denies the
user access to the gaming system. In some embodiments, the
authentication server 58 may transmit a denial message to the
gaming unit. The denial message may indicate that the
authentication server 58 determined that the location data
indicated the location of the gaming unit was not permitted.
[0163] If at block 758 it is determined that the gaming unit is in
a permitted location, control may pass to block 760. At block 760,
the authentication server 58 grants the user further access to the
gaming system 10. For example, in some embodiments, the
authentication server 58 may transmit a message to the gaming unit
indicating that the gaming unit is at a permitted location. In
other embodiments, the authentication server 58 may pass control to
the website server 50 or the gaming server 52, indicating that the
gaming unit is at a permitted location.
Check Biometric Data
[0164] The manner of operation described below will be described
with reference to FIGS. 1 and 7. FIG. 19 is a flowchart of one
possible embodiment of a software routine 770 that may be performed
by the authentication server 58. The routine 770 can be used to
determine whether the biometric data submitted by the user matches
biometric data submitted during registration.
[0165] At block 774, the authentication server 58 receives
biometric data. In embodiments in which biometric data has been
encrypted, and/or a digital signature applied to it, the
authentication server 58, at block 778, can decrypt the data and/or
examine the digital signature to help determine if the data was
received from a reliable source or sources. Block 778 can be
implemented, for example, by the controller 301 or some other
device, and can be implemented via software, firmware, hardware, or
some combination thereof.
[0166] If at block 778, it may be determined that the received
biometric data is not authentic, the authentication server 58 may,
at block 782, transmit a denial message to the gaming unit 20. The
denial message may indicate that the authentication server 58
determined that the location data was not authentic and/or that the
location data indicated the location of the gaming unit 20 was not
permitted.
[0167] If, at block 778, it is determined that the biometric data
is authentic, then control may pass to block 786. In other
embodiments, block 778 can be omitted, if, for example, the
biometric data are not encrypted, or a digital signature is not
applied to the data, prior to its receipt by the authentication
server 58.
[0168] At block 786, it may be determined whether the biometric
data matches biometric data previously submitted during
registration. For example, the received biometric data may be
compared with biometric data stored, for example, in a memory,
database, etc., to determine if it matches any of the stored data.
Also, if personal data associated with the received biometric data
is available, this personal data may be used to retrieve stored
biometric data from the memory, database, etc., that corresponds to
the personal data. Then, the biometric data received at block 774
can be compared with the biometric data retrieved from the memory,
database, etc., that corresponds to the personal data. In another
embodiment, the biometric data received at block 774 may be
compared with biometric data stored on a smart card. This may
include receiving the biometric data from the smart card via, for
example, a gaming unit 20, and authenticating the smart card
biometric data. If the smart card biometric data is authentic, the
biometric data received at block 774 may be compared with the smart
card biometric data.
[0169] If it is determined that the biometric data received at
block 774 does not match biometric data previously obtained during
registration, control may pass to block 782. At block 782, the
authentication server 58 denies the user access to the gaming
system. In some embodiments, the authentication server 58 may
transmit a denial message to the gaming unit 20. The denial message
may indicate, for example, that the authentication server 58
determined that the biometric data did not match biometric data of
any registered users.
[0170] If at block 786 it is determined that the biometric data
received at block 774 does match biometric data obtained during
registration, control may pass to block 790. At block 790, the
authentication server 58 grants the user access to the gaming
system 10. In some embodiments, the authentication server 58 may
transmit a message to the gaming unit 20 indicating, for example,
that the user's biometric data matches that of a registered user.
In other embodiments, the authentication server 58 may pass control
to the website server 50 or the gaming server 52 indicating that,
for example, that the user's biometric data matches that of a
registered user.
Website Server Operation
[0171] FIG. 20 is a flowchart of one possible embodiment of an
operation software routine 800 that may be performed by the website
server 50. Referring to FIG. 20, at block 822 the website server 50
may determine whether a player has indicated a desire to stop
playing a particular game that the player has been playing via one
of the gaming servers 52. During play of a particular game, the
gaming server 52 which provides the gaming software for that game
controls the operation of the game. When the player indicates a
desire to stop playing that game, the gaming server 52 may transfer
operational control back to the website server 50, in which case
the routine may branch to block 824 at which a game selection
display may be generated on the display unit 170 (FIG. 6) of the
gaming unit 20 being used by the player.
[0172] At block 826, the routine may determine whether a logon
request has been received from a player, via one of the gaming
units 20, indicating a desire to initiate a gaming session. The
logon request could be, for example, the entry by the player of the
Internet address of the website associated with the website server
50. If a logon request is received, the routine may cause a logon
display to be generated on the display unit 44 of the player who
transmitted the logon request. To generate the logon display (block
828), the website server 50 may cause display data representing a
logon display image to be transmitted to the gaming unit 20.
Various image data, including logon image data, may be stored in
one of the memories 352, 356 of the website server 50.
[0173] One example of a logon display 130 that could be generated
on the player's display unit 44 is shown in FIG. 21. Referring to
FIG. 21, the logon display 900 may include a data entry box 902 for
entry of the first name of the player. The logon display 900 may
also include a button 916 that a user may select to submit the data
entered in the data entry box 902 of logon display 900.
[0174] Other information could be additionally or alternatively
obtained from the user such as a last name, a logon name, a
password, a street address, a city, a state, a zip code, a credit
card number, an expiration date of the credit card, etc.
[0175] In some embodiments, some or all of this information may be
obtained from a smart card of the player. In these embodiments, a
logon display may additionally or alternatively prompt the player
to insert his or her smart card into a smart card reader.
[0176] Referring back to FIG. 20, if the website server 50 has
received logon data from the player as determined at block 846,
that data may be stored in one of the memories 352, 356 of the
website server 50 at block 848. If the website server 50 has
received all of the required logon data as determined at block 849,
the routine may branch to block 824. If not, the routine may branch
back to block 846 to await further logon data from the player.
[0177] At block 824, the routine may cause a game selection display
to be generated on the display unit 170 of the gaming unit 20. To
generate the game selection display, the website server 50 may
cause display data representing a game selection display image to
be transmitted to the gaming unit 20. The display data may be
stored in one of memories 352, 356 of the website server 50. Block
824 may be performed in response to a player initially logging onto
the website (i.e. after the completion of block 849) or in response
to a player's desire to end a game that is being provided under the
control of one of the gaming servers 52 as described above (i.e.
after the completion of block 822).
[0178] One example of a game selection display 920 that could be
generated on the player's display unit 170 is shown in FIG. 22.
Referring to FIG. 22, the game selection display 920 may include a
plurality of player-activatable icons, or game images, each of
which represents a respective game that the player may play via the
website associated with the website server 50. The icons may
include, for example, an icon 922 associated with a draw poker
game, an icon 924 associated with a bonus poker game, an icon 926
associated with a triple play poker game, an icon 928 associated
with a 10-play poker game, an icon 930 associated with a 50-play
poker game, an icon 932 associated with a first slots game, an icon
934 associated with a second slots game, an icon 936 associated
with a blackjack game, an icon 938 associated with a bingo game,
and an icon 940 associated with a keno game. Where the gaming unit
20 includes a mouse, the icons may be player-activatable via the
mouse. Alternatively, each of the game icons may have a unique
letter associated therewith and a game could be selected by
inputting one of the unique letters via a keyboard.
[0179] The games that are available to play via the website
serviced by the website server 50 may be provided by the gaming
servers 52 in various ways. For example, if twenty games were
available via the website and if the website server 50 were
operatively coupled to four gaming servers 52, each of those four
gaming servers 52 could be programmed to facilitate play of exactly
five of the games.
[0180] As another example, if the ten games represented by the ten
icons shown in FIG. 22 were available for play and if four gaming
servers 52 were connected to the website server 50, a first of the
gaming servers 52 could be programmed with gaming software that
facilitates play of each of the poker games represented by the
icons 922, 924, 926, 928, 930, a second of the gaming servers 52
could be programmed with gaming software that facilitates play of
the two slots games represented by the icons 932, 934, a third
gaming server 52 could be programmed with gaming software that
facilitates play of the blackjack game represented by the icon 936,
and the fourth gaming server 52 could be programmed with gaming
software that facilitates play of the bingo and keno games
represented by the icons 938, 940. Each game may be available for
play via only one of the gaming servers 52. In other words, only
one of the four gaming servers 52 could contain gaming software
that facilitates play of the triple play poker game represented by
the icon 926, in which case that particular gaming server 52 would
have to be utilized if a player desired to play the triple play
poker game.
[0181] Alternatively, each of the gaming servers 52 may provide a
plurality of games that are available only from a respective gaming
provider. In that case, each of the gaming servers 52 may be
programmed with gaming software that facilitates one or more poker
games (and/or other games), but each of the poker games may be
different, such as by having different visual displays, different
wagering options, different gaming options, etc.
[0182] Each of the games available for play via the website may
have one gaming server 52 on which gaming software that facilitates
play of that game is stored. One of the memories 352, 356 of the
website server 50 could store data that identifies the particular
gaming server 52 that provides gaming software that implements each
of the games available via the website. One example of such data is
set forth below.
[0183] 1 Game Gaming Server Draw Poker #1 Bonus Poker #1 Triple
Play Poker #2 10-Play Poker #2 50-Play Poker #2 Slots A #3 Slots B
#3 Blackjack #4 Bingo #5 Keno #6
[0184] In some embodiments, one gaming server 52 may implement
multiple types of games.
[0185] Referring to FIG. 20, at block 874 if a player selected one
of the games available via the website as described above, the
routine may branch to block 876. At block 876, the routine may
obtain location data related to the gaming unit 20. For instance,
the website server 50 may prompt the gaming unit 20 to obtain
location data and transmit the location data to the website server
50. The gaming unit 20 may utilize a routine such as routine 650
(FIG. 16) to obtain location data. Also, the website server 50 may
obtain location data as the IP address of the gaming unit 20.
[0186] At block 878, the routine may determine whether the location
data obtained at block 876 indicates that the gaming unit 20 is at
a permitted location. For instance, the website server 50 may
transmit the location data obtained at block 876 to the
authentication server 58, and request that the authentication
server 58 determine whether the gaming unit 20 is at a permitted
location. The authentication server 58 may utilize a routine such
as routine 750 (FIG. 18) to determine whether the gaming unit 20 is
at a permitted location. In embodiments that do not include an
authentication server 58, the determination of whether the gaming
unit 20 is at a permitted location may be carried with another
computing system, such as the website server 50, the network
computer 22, etc.
[0187] In another embodiment, at blocks 876 and 878, operational
control may pass from the website server 50 to the authentication
server 58, or to whatever computing system that implements blocks
876 and 878. Then, operational control may pass back to the website
server 50 at block 880.
[0188] If it determined that the gaming unit 20 is at a permitted
location, the routine may branch to block 882, at which the routine
may obtain biometric data of the user to authenticate the user. For
instance, the website server 50 may prompt the gaming unit 20 to
obtain biometric data from the user and transmit the biometric data
to the website server 50. The gaming unit 20 may utilize a routine
such as routine 620 (FIG. 15) to obtain biometric data.
[0189] At block 884, the routine may determine whether the
biometric data obtained at block 882 matches biometric data
obtained previously For instance, the website server 50 may
transmit the biometric data obtained at block 882 to the
authentication server 58, and request that the authentication
server 58 determine whether that biometric data matches biometric
data of a registered user. The authentication server 58 may utilize
a routine such as routine 770 (FIG. 19). In embodiments that do not
include an authentication server 58, the determination of whether
the biometric data matches biometric data of a registered user may
be implemented with another computing device, such as the website
server 50, the network computer 22, the gaming unit 20 etc. For
instance, the gaming unit 20 may compare the biometric data
obtained from the player and compare it to biometric data stored on
a smart card.
[0190] In another embodiment, at blocks 882 and 884, operational
control may pass from the website server 50 to the authentication
server 58, or to whatever computing system that implements blocks
882 and 884. Then, operational control may pass back to the website
server 50 at block 886 If the biometric data does match that of a
registered user, and, optionally, the user identified by the
biometric data is permitted to play, control may pass to block 888.
At block 888, operational control may pass to the gaming server 52
that provides gaming software to play that game. For example, if
the above table was used and if the player selected Triple Play
Poker, the routine would transfer operational control to the gaming
server #2.
[0191] If the biometric data does not match that of a registered
user permitted to play, or, optionally, the user identified by the
biometric data is not permitted to play, control may pass to block
890. Similarly, if at block 870 it is determined that the gaming
unit 20 is not at a permitted location, control may pass to block
890. At block 890, a display may be generated which indicates to
the user that he or she has been refused access to play the game.
The display may optionally indicate why access was denied.
[0192] If the player elected to end play at the website, such as by
activating the "Sign Off" icon 942 shown in FIG. 22, the routine
may branch to block 894 at which point a gaming session summary may
be displayed on the display unit 170 of the gaming unit 20. The
gaming session summary may provide. the player with summary data,
such as how much money was won and what games were played. The
player could then print out the summary display shown on the
display unit 170 to save a physical record of the gaming session.
At block 896, the routine may terminate the Internet link between
the website and the gaming unit 20.
[0193] In some embodiments, blocks 876, 878, 880 and/or blocks 882,
884, 886, and block 890 may be omitted if desired. For example,
location data and/or biometric data could be checked during game
play.
Gaming Server Operation
[0194] As described above, each game available via the website may
be played via one of the gaming servers 52 operatively coupled to
the website server 50. Examples of the draw poker, slots A,
blackjack, bingo and keno games represented by the game icons 152,
162, 166, 168, 170, respectively, shown in FIG. 22 are described
below. In view of the above description, it should be understood
that each of the following game routines may be performed by a
different one of the gaming servers 52, or that one of the gaming
servers 52 may perform more than one of the game routines.
[0195] One of the game routines described below may begin execution
upon the transfer of operational control from the website server 50
to one of the gaming servers 52 as described above in connection
with block 888 of FIG. 20. Upon the completion of one of the game
routines (i.e. when a player desired to stop playing a particular
game), the website server 50 would make that determination at block
822 of FIG. 20 as described above and would begin operation at
block 824 as described above.
Draw Poker
[0196] FIG. 23 is an exemplary display 950 that may be caused to be
displayed on the display unit 170 of one of the gaming units 20 (by
a gaming server 52 sending display data to the gaming unit 20)
during performance of a draw poker routine that may be performed by
one of the gaming servers 52.
[0197] Referring to FIG. 23, the display 950 may include video
images 951 of a plurality of playing cards representing the
player's hand, such as five cards. To allow the player to control
the play of the poker game, a plurality of player-selectable
buttons may be displayed. The buttons may include a "Hold" button
952 disposed directly below each of the playing card images 951, a
"Cash Out" button 954, a "See Pays" button 955, a "Bet One Credit"
button 956, a "Bet Max Credits" button 957, and a "Deal/Draw"
button 958. The display 950 may also include an area 959 in which
the number of remaining credits or value may be displayed. The
buttons may be activated with the use of a mouse as described
above.
[0198] Upon activation of each of the buttons, a corresponding data
message may be transmitted from the gaming unit 20 to the gaming
server 52. The data message may have a source address that
identifies the gaming unit 20 sending the message, a destination
address that identifies the gaming server 52 to which the message
is to be sent, and a data field that contains data corresponding to
the button, such as wager data, game instruction data (e.g. whether
to "deal," "hold," etc.), etc.
[0199] In some embodiments one or more of the buttons 952, 954,
955, 956, 957, and 958 may be integrated with a biometric device.
For example, the "Deal/Draw" button may be integrated with a
fingerprint scanner. In this example, the "Deal/Draw" button may be
activated by providing placing a finger on the fingerprint scanner
and submitting one or more fingerprint scans. The fingerprint
scanner may be integrated, for example, with a touch screen,
keyboard, control panel, lever, etc., such that the area on which a
finger should be placed for scanning corresponds to a "Deal/Draw"
selection.
[0200] In other embodiments, the player may be prompted to submit
biometric data if he or she desires to make a particular selection,
such as "Deal/Draw" selection. In still other embodiments, when,
for example, the "Deal/Draw" button is integrated with the
biometric device, the gaming unit 20 may determine that the player
has made a "Deal/Draw" selection (e.g., by detecting a button
press, touch screen press, etc.) and may also retrieve biometric
data via the biometric device such that the two appear to occur
simultaneously, or nearly simultaneously, to the player.
[0201] Thus, submitting biometric data may be a mechanism for
providing a game play selection (e.g., a "Deal/Draw" selection).
Or, biometric data may be submitted in conjunction with making the
game play selection. When such a selection is made, a corresponding
data message may be transmitted from the gaming unit 20 to the
gaming server 52. The data message may have a source address that
identifies the gaming unit 20 sending the message, a destination
address that identifies the gaming server 52 to which the message
is to be sent, and a data field that contains biometric data, etc.
The message may also include data corresponding to the selection to
which the biometric data submission corresponds (e.g. whether to
"deal," etc.) If the corresponding selection can be determined by
the context of the game, this data need not be provided (but may be
provided).
[0202] In other embodiments, location information may be determined
in conjunction with the game play selection. In these embodiments,
the data message transmitted from the gaming unit 20 to the gaming
server 52 may include location information.
[0203] FIG. 24 is a flowchart of a poker routine 962. Referring to
FIG. 24, at block 964, if the player has requested payout
information, such as by activating the "See Pays" button 955, at
block 966 the routine may cause one or more pay tables to be
displayed on the display unit 170 of the gaming unit 20 (by
transmitting to the gaming unit 20 display data representing the
pay tables).
[0204] At block 968, the player may make a bet by, for example,
selecting the "Bet One Credit" button 956 (FIG. 23). This may be
detected by the gaming server 52, for example, by receiving a "Bet
One Credit" message from the gaming unit 20. If a "Bet One Credit"
message is received, control may pass to block 976. At block 976,
bet data corresponding to the bet made by the player may be stored
in a memory (for example, the memory of the gaming server
controller 401).
[0205] At block 978, the routine may determine whether the player
has activated the "Bet Max Credits" button 957. For example, the
gaming server 52 may receive a "Bet Max Credits" data message from
the gaming unit 20. If yes, then control may pass to block. At
block 980, bet data corresponding to the bet made by the player may
be stored in a memory (for example, the memory of the gaming server
controller 401).
[0206] At block 982, the routine may determine if the player
desires a new hand to be dealt, (for example, by receiving a
"Deal/Draw" data message from the gaming unit 20 after a wager was
made). If yes, then control may pass to block 970. At block 970,
biometric data may be obtained from the player and checked to see
whether it matches that of a registered user. For instance, the
gaming server 52 may prompt the gaming unit 20 to obtain biometric
data from the user and transmit the biometric data to the gaming
server 52. The gaming unit 20 may utilize a routine such as routine
620 (FIG. 15) to obtain biometric data. Additionally, the gaming
server 52 may transmit the obtained biometric data to the
authentication server 58, and request that the authentication
server 58 determine whether that biometric data matches biometric
data of a registered user. The authentication server 58 may utilize
a routine such as routine 770 (FIG. 19). In embodiments that do not
include an authentication server 58, the determination of whether
the biometric data matches biometric data of a registered user may
be implemented with another computing device, such as the gaming
server 52, the network computer 22, the gaming unit 20, etc. For
instance, the gaming unit may compare the biometric data obtained
from the player and compare it to 20 biometric data stored on a
smart card.
[0207] In another embodiment, at block 970, operational control may
pass from the gaming server 52 to the authentication server 58, or
to whatever computing system that implements block 970a. Then,
operational control may pass back to the gaming server 52 at block
972 or block 984 (if access is granted).
[0208] If at block 972 it is determined that access has not been
granted, then the routine may end. If at block 972 it is determined
that access has been granted, control may pass to block 984.
[0209] As discussed previously, submission of biometric data may be
integrated with the determination of whether the player desires a
new hand to be dealt. For example, the player may submit biometric
data in order to request, or when requesting, a new hand to be
dealt. Thus, blocks 982, 970, and 972 may be integrated, their
order rearranged, etc.
[0210] At block 984, a video poker hand may be "dealt" by causing
the display unit 170 to generate the playing card images 951 (by
transmitting one or more messages to the gaming unit 20 with
suitable display data). After the hand is dealt, at block 986 the
routine may determine if the player selected a "Hold" button 952.
For example, the gaming server 52 may determine whether a "Hold"
data message was received from the gaming unit 20. If yes, data
regarding which of the playing card images 951 are to be "held" may
be stored in a memory (for example, the memory of the gaming server
controller 401) at block 388.
[0211] If the user selects the "Deal/Draw" button 958 (for example,
if the gaming server 52 receives a "Deal/Draw" data message from
the gaming unit 20) as determined at block 990, each of the playing
card images 951 that was not "held" may be caused to disappear from
the video display 950 and to be replaced by a new, randomly
selected, playing card image 951 at block 992.
[0212] In some embodiments, the user may be required to submit
biometric data in conjunction with block 990 in a manner similar
that described above with respect to blocks 982, 970, and 972. For
example, if a fingerprint scanner is integrated with the
"Deal/Draw" selection "button," submission of biometric data may be
interpreted as a "Draw" request.
[0213] At block 994, the routine may determine whether the poker
hand represented by the playing card images 951 currently displayed
is a winner. That determination may be made by comparing data
representing the currently displayed poker hand with data
representing all possible winning hands, which may be stored in a
memory (for example, the memory of the gaming server controller
401). If there is a winning hand, a payout value corresponding to
the winning hand may be determined at block 996. At block 998, the
player's cumulative value or number of credits may be updated by
subtracting the bet made by the player and adding, if the hand was
a winner, the payout value determined at block 996. The cumulative
value or number of credits may also be displayed in the display
area 959 (FIG. 23).
[0214] If desired, one or more similar pairs of blocks 970 and 972
may be added in other portions of the routine as well. For example,
after blocks 968 and/or 978, or integrated therewith, biometric
data could be accessed and authenticated before passing control to
block 976 or block 980, respectively.
Blackjack
[0215] FIG. 25 is an exemplary display 1000 that may be caused to
be displayed on the display unit 170 of one of the gaming units 20
(by a gaming server 52 sending display data to the gaming unit 20)
during performance of a blackjack routine. Referring to FIG. 25,
the display 1000 may include video images 1002 of a pair of playing
cards representing a dealer's hand, with one of the cards shown
face up and the other card being shown face down, and video images
1004 of a pair of playing cards representing a player's hand, with
both the cards shown face up. The "dealer" may be the gaming server
52.
[0216] To allow the player to control the play of the blackjack
game, a plurality of player-selectable buttons may be displayed.
The buttons may include a "Cash Out" button 1006, a "See Pays"
button 1008, a "Stay" button 1010, a "Hit" button 1012, a "Bet One
Credit" button 1014, and a "Bet Max Credits" button 1016. The
display 1000 may also include an area 1018 in which the number of
remaining credits or value is displayed. The buttons may be
activated with the use of a mouse as described above.
[0217] Upon activation of each of the buttons, a corresponding data
message may be transmitted from the gaming unit 20 to the gaming
server 52. The data message may have a source address that
identifies the gaming unit 20 sending the message, a destination
address that identifies the gaming server 52 to which the message
is to be sent, and a data field that contains data corresponding to
the button, such as wager data, game instruction data (e.g. whether
to "hit" or "stay"), etc.
[0218] Similar to the buttons described with reference to FIG. 23,
in some embodiments one or more of the buttons 1006, 1008, 1010,
1012, 1014, and 1016 may be integrated with a biometric device. For
example, the "Hit" button may be integrated with a biometric
device. For instance, the "Hit" button may be integrated with a
biometric device in a similar manner as described with respect to
the "Deal/Draw" button of FIG. 23. Or, the player may make a "Hit"
selection by submitting biometric data via a biometric device.
Thus, as described above, submitting biometric data may be a
mechanism for providing a game play selection (e.g., a "Hit"
selection). Or, biometric data may be submitted in conjunction with
making the game play selection.
[0219] FIG. 26 is a flowchart of the blackjack routine 1020.
Referring to FIG. 26, the blackjack routine 1020 may begin at block
1022 where it may determine whether a bet has been made by the
player (e.g. by determining if a "Bet One Credit" data message or a
"Bet Max Credits" data message has been received by the gaming
server 52 from the gaming unit 20).
[0220] If a bet has been made, control may pass to block 1028. At
block 1028, bet data corresponding to the bet made by the player
may be stored in a memory (for example, the memory of the gaming
server controller 401). At block 1030, a dealer's hand and a
player's hand may be "dealt" by making the playing card images
1002, 1004 appear on the display unit 170 of the gaming unit
20.
[0221] At block 1032, the player may select to be "hit," in which
case control may pass to block 1024. At block 1024a, biometric data
may be obtained from the player and checked to see whether it
matches that of a registered user. For instance, the gaming server
52 may prompt the gaming unit 20 to obtain biometric data from the
user and transmit the biometric data to the gaming server 52. The
gaming unit 20 may utilize a routine such as routine 620 (FIG. 15)
to obtain biometric data.
[0222] Additionally, the gaming server 52 may transmit the obtained
biometric data to the authentication server 58, and request that
the authentication server 58 determine whether that biometric data
matches biometric data of a registered user. The authentication
server 58 may utilize a routine such as routine 770 (FIG. 19). In
embodiments that do not include an authentication server 58, the
determination of whether the biometric data matches biometric data
of a registered user may be implemented with another computing
device, such as the gaming server 52, the network computer 22, the
gaming unit 20 etc. For instance, the gaming unit 20 may compare
the biometric data obtained from the player and compare it to
biometric data stored on a smart card.
[0223] In another embodiment, at block 1024, operational control
may pass from the gaming server 52 to the authentication server 58,
or to whatever computing system that implements block 1024. Then,
operational control may pass back to the gaming server 52 at block
1026 or at block 1034 (if access is granted).
[0224] If the biometric data does match that of a registered user,
and, optionally, the user identified by the biometric data is
permitted to play, control may pass to block 1034. At block 1034,
another card will be dealt to the player's hand by making another
playing card image 1004 appear in the display 1000. If the player
is hit, block 1036 may determine if the player has "bust," or
exceeded 21. If the player has not bust, control may pass to block
1032.
[0225] If at block 1026 it is determined that access has not been
granted, the routine may end. Prior to ending, a display may be
generated which indicates to the player that he or she has been
refused access to play the game. The display may optionally
indicate why access was denied. Additionally, instead of ending,
the routine may branch back to block 1022.
[0226] As discussed previously, submission of biometric data may be
integrated with the determination of whether the player desires a
"Hit." For example, the player may submit biometric data in order
to request, or when requesting, a "Hit." Thus, blocks 1032, 1024,
and 1026 may be integrated, their order rearranged, etc.
[0227] If the player decides not to hit, at block 1038 the routine
may determine is whether the dealer should be hit. Whether the
dealer hits may be determined in accordance with predetermined
rules, such as the dealer always hit if the dealer's hand totals 15
or less. If the dealer hits, at block 1040 the dealer's hand may be
dealt another card by making another playing card image 1002 appear
in the display 1000. At block 1042 the routine may determine
whether the dealer has bust. If the dealer has not bust, blocks
1038 and 1040 may be performed again to allow the dealer to be hit
again.
[0228] If the dealer does not hit, at block 1044 the outcome of the
blackjack game and a corresponding payout may be determined based
on, for example, whether the player or the dealer has the higher
hand that does not exceed 21. If the player has a winning hand, a
payout value corresponding to the winning hand may be determined at
block 1046. At block 1048, the player's cumulative value or number
of credits may be updated by subtracting the bet made by the player
and adding, if the player won, the payout value determined at block
1046. The cumulative value or number of credits may also be
displayed in the display area 1018 (FIG. 25).
[0229] If desired, one or more of the pair of blocks 1024 and 1026
may be added in other portions of the routine as well.
Slots A
[0230] FIG. 27 is an exemplary display 1050 that may be caused to
be displayed on the display unit 170 of one of the gaming units 20
(by a gaming server 52 sending display data to the gaming unit 20)
during performance of a slots routine. Referring to FIG. 27, the
display 1050 may include video images 1052 of a plurality of slot
machine reels, each of the reels having a plurality of reel symbols
1054 associated therewith. Although the display 1050 shows five
reel images 1052, each of which may have three reel symbols 1054
that are visible at a time, other reel configurations could be
utilized.
[0231] To allow the player to control the play of the slots game, a
plurality of player-selectable buttons may be displayed. The
buttons may include a "Cash Out" button 1056, a "See Pays" button
1058, a plurality of payline-selection buttons 1060 each of which
allows the player to select a different number of paylines prior to
"spinning" the reels, a plurality of bet-selection buttons 1062
each of which allows a player to specify a wager amount for each
payline selected, a "Spin" button 1064, and a "Max Bet" button 1066
to allow a player to make the maximum wager allowable.
[0232] Upon activation of a button, a corresponding data message
may be transmitted from the gaming unit 20 to the gaming server 52.
The data message may have a source address that identifies the
gaming unit 20 sending the message, a destination address that
identifies the gaming server 52 to which the message is to be sent,
and a data field that contains data corresponding to the button,
such as wager data, game instruction data (e.g. spin), etc.
[0233] Similar to the buttons described with reference to FIG. 23,
in some embodiments one or more of the buttons 1056, 1058, 1060,
1062, 1064, and 1066 may be integrated with a biometric device. For
example, the "Spin" button may be integrated with a biometric
device. For instance, the "Spin" button may be integrated with a
biometric device in a similar manner as described with respect to
the "Deal/Draw" button of FIG. 23. Or, the player may make a "Spin"
selection by submitting biometric data via a biometric device.
Thus, as described above, submitting biometric data may be a
mechanism for providing a game play selection (e.g., a "Spin"
selection). Or, biometric data may be submitted in conjunction with
making the game play selection.
[0234] FIG. 28 is a flowchart of a slots routine 1068. Referring to
FIG. 28, at block 1070, it may be determined whether the player has
requested payout information (e.g., detecting receipt by the gaming
server 52 of a "See Pays" data message). If yes, at block 1072 the
routine may cause one or more pay tables to be displayed on the
display unit 170. At block 1074, it may be determined whether the
player selected a number of paylines (e.g., by selecting one of the
payline buttons 1060). For example, the routine may determine if a
data message is received by the gaming server 52 as a result of the
player pressing one of the payline-selection buttons 460. If yes,
at block 1076 data corresponding to the number of paylines selected
by the player may be stored in a memory (e.g., the memory 406 of
the gaming server controller 401). At block 1078, it may be
determined if the player has selected one of the bet-selection
buttons 1062.
[0235] If yes, control may pass to block 1084. At block 1084, data
corresponding to the amount bet per payline may be stored in a
memory (for example, the memory of the gaming server controller
401).
[0236] At block 1086, it may be determined whether the player
selected the "Max Bet" button 1066. For example, the routine may
determine if a "Max Bet" data message has been received by the
gaming server 52. If yes, control may pass to block 1088. At block
1088, bet data (which may include both payline data and
bet-per-payline data) corresponding to the maximum allowable bet
may be stored in a memory (for example, the memory of the gaming
server controller 401).
[0237] At block 1090, it is determined whether the user selected
the "Spin" button 1064. For example, the routine may determine
whether a "Spin" data message has been received from the gaming
unit 20. If yes, control may pass to block 1080. At block 1080,
biometric data may be obtained from the player and checked to see
whether it matches that of a registered user. For instance, the
gaming server 52 may prompt the gaming unit 20 to obtain biometric
data from the user and transmit the biometric data to the gaming
server 52. The gaming unit 20 may utilize a routine such as routine
620 (FIG. 15) to obtain biometric data. Additionally, the gaming
server 52 may transmit the obtained biometric data to the
authentication server 58, and request that the authentication
server 58 determine whether that biometric data matches biometric
data of a registered user. The authentication server 58 may utilize
a routine such as routine 770 (FIG. 19). In embodiments that do not
include an authentication server 58, the determination of whether
the biometric data matches biometric data of a registered user may
be implemented with another computing device, such as the gaming
server 52, the network computer 22, the gaming unit 20 etc. For
instance, the gaming unit 20 may compare the biometric data
obtained from the player and compare it to biometric data stored on
a smart card.
[0238] In another embodiment, at block 1080, operational control
may pass from the gaming server 52 to the authentication server 58,
or to whatever computing system that implements block 1080. Then,
operational control may pass back to the gaming server 52 at block
1082 or at block 1092 (if access is granted).
[0239] If at block 1082 it is determined that access has not been
granted, then the routine may end. If at block 1082 it is
determined that access has been granted, control may pass to block
1092.
[0240] As discussed previously, submission of biometric data may be
integrated with the determination of whether the player desires to
"Spin." For example, the player may submit biometric data in order
to request, or when requesting, to "Spin." Thus, blocks 1090, 1080,
and 1082 may be integrated, their order rearranged, etc.
[0241] At block 1092, the routine may cause the slot machine reel
images 1052 to begin "spinning" so as to simulate the appearance of
a plurality of spinning mechanical slot machine reels. At block
1094, the routine may determine the positions at which the slot
machine reel images will stop, or the particular symbol images 1054
that will be displayed when the reel images 1052 stop spinning. At
block 1096, the routine may stop the reel images 1052 from spinning
by displaying stationary reel images 1052 and images of three
symbols 1054 for each stopped reel image 1052. The virtual reels
may be stopped from left to right, from the perspective of the
player, or in any other manner or sequence.
[0242] The routine may provide for the possibility of a bonus game
or round if certain conditions are met, such as the display in the
stopped reel images 1052 of a particular symbol 1054. If there is
such a bonus condition as determined at block 1098, the routine may
proceed to block 1100 where a bonus round may be played. The bonus
round may be a different game than slots, and many other types of
bonus games could be provided. If the player wins the bonus round,
or receives additional credits or points in the bonus round, a
bonus value may be determined at block 1102. A payout value
corresponding to outcome of the slots game and/or the bonus round
may be determined at block 1104. At block 1108, the player's
cumulative value or number of credits may be updated by subtracting
the bet made by the player and adding, if the slot game and/or
bonus round was a winner, the payout value determined at block
1104.
[0243] If desired, one or more of the pair of blocks 1080 and 1082
may be added in other portions of the routine.
Keno
[0244] FIG. 29 is an exemplary display 1120 that may be caused to
be displayed on the display unit 170 of one of the gaming units 20
(by a gaming server 52 sending display data to the gaming unit 20)
during performance of a keno routine. Referring to FIG. 29, the
display 1120 may include a video image 1122 of a plurality of
numbers that were selected by the player prior to the start of a
keno game and a video image 1124 of a plurality of numbers randomly
selected during the keno game. The randomly selected numbers may be
displayed in a grid pattern.
[0245] To allow the player to control the play of the keno game, a
plurality of player-selectable buttons may be displayed. The
buttons may include a "Cash Out" button 1126, a "See Pays" button
1128, a "Bet One Credit" button 1130, a "Bet Max Credits" button
1132, a "Select Ticket" button 1134, a "Select Number" button 1136,
and a "Play" button 1138. The display 1120 may also include an area
1140 in which the number of remaining credits or value is
displayed.
[0246] Upon activation a button, a corresponding data message may
be transmitted from the gaming unit 20 to the gaming server 52. The
data message may have a source address that identifies the gaming
unit 20 sending the message, a destination address that identifies
the gaming server 52 to which the message is to be sent, and a data
field that contains data corresponding to the button, such as wager
data, game instruction data, etc.
[0247] Similar to the buttons described with reference to FIG. 23,
in some embodiments one or more of the buttons 1126, 1128, 1132,
1134, 1136, and 1138 may be integrated with a biometric device. For
example, the "Play" button may be integrated with a biometric
device. For instance, the "Play" button may be integrated with a
biometric device in a similar manner as described with respect to
the "Deal/Draw" button of FIG. 23. Or, the player may make a "Play"
selection by submitting biometric data via a biometric device.
Thus, as described above, submitting biometric data may be a
mechanism for providing a game play selection (e.g., a "Play"
selection). Or, biometric data may be submitted in conjunction with
making the game play selection.
[0248] FIG. 30 is a flowchart of the keno routine 1150. The keno
routine 1150 maybe utilized in connection with a single gaming unit
20 where a single player is playing a keno game, or the keno
routine 1150 may be utilized in connection with multiple gaming
units 20 where multiple players are playing a single keno game.
[0249] Referring to FIG. 30, at block 1152, the routine may
determine whether the "See Pays" button 1128 was selected. For
example, the routine may determine whether a "See Pays" data
message has been received from the gaming unit 20. If yes, at block
154 the routine may cause one or more pay tables to be displayed on
the display unit 170. At block 1156, it may be determined whether
the player has chosen to bet. For example, the routine may
determine whether bet data has been received from the gaming unit
20, such as by receiving a "Bet One Credit" data message or a "Bet
Max Credits" data message. If yes, the routine may proceed to block
1162.
[0250] At block 1162, bet data corresponding to the bet made by the
player may be stored in a memory (for example, the memory of the
gaming server controller 401).
[0251] After the player has made a wager, at block 1164 the player
may select a keno ticket, and at block 1166 the ticket may be
displayed on the display 1120. At block 1168, the player may select
one or more game numbers, which may be within a range set by the
casino. After being selected, the player's game numbers may be
stored in a memory (e.g., the memory of the gaming server
controller 401) at block 1170 and may be included in the image 1122
on the display 1120 at block 1172. After a certain amount of time,
the keno game may be closed to additional players (where a number
of players are playing a single keno game using multiple gaming
units 20).
[0252] At block 1174, it may be determined whether play of the keno
game is to begin. If yes, control may pass to block 1158. At block
1158, biometric data may be obtained from the player and checked to
see whether it matches that of a registered user. For instance, the
gaming server 52 may prompt the gaming unit 20 to obtain biometric
data from the user and transmit the biometric data to the gaming
server 52. The gaming unit 20 may utilize a routine such as routine
620 (FIG. 15) to obtain biometric data. Additionally, the gaming
server 52 may transmit the obtained biometric data to the
authentication server 58, and request that the authentication
server 58 determine whether that biometric data matches biometric
data of a registered user. The authentication server 58 may utilize
a routine such as routine 770 (FIG. 19). In embodiments that do not
include an authentication server 58, the determination of whether
the biometric data matches biometric data of a registered user may
be implemented with another computing device, such as the gaming
server 52, the network computer 22, the gaming unit 20 etc. For
instance, the gaming unit 20 may compare the biometric data
obtained from the player and compare it to biometric data stored on
a smart card.
[0253] In another embodiment, at block 1158, operational control
may pass from the gaming server 52 to the authentication server 58,
or to whatever computing system that implements block 1158. Then,
operational control may pass back to the gaming server 52 at block
1160a.
[0254] If the biometric data does match that of a registered user,
and, optionally, the user identified by the biometric data is
permitted to play, control may pass to block 1176. If the biometric
data does not match that of a registered user permitted to play,
then the routine may end. Prior to ending, a display may be
generated which indicates to the player that he or she has been
refused access to play the game. The display may optionally
indicate why access was denied. Additionally, instead of ending,
the routine may branch back to block 1152.
[0255] As discussed previously, submission of biometric data may be
integrated with the determination of whether the player desires to
"Play." For example, the player may submit biometric data in order
to request, or when requesting, to "Play." Thus, blocks 1174, 1158,
and 1160 may be integrated, their order rearranged, etc.
[0256] At block 1176 a game number within a range set by the casino
may be randomly selected (for example, by the gaming server
controller 401). At block 1178, the randomly selected game number
may be displayed on the display unit 170 and the display units 170
of other gaming units 20 (if any) which are involved in the same
keno game. At block 1180, a count which keeps track of how many
game numbers have been selected may be incremented at block 1180.
For example, the gaming server controller 401 may increment the
count.
[0257] At block 1182, the routine may determine whether a maximum
number of game numbers within the range have been randomly
selected. If not, another game number may be randomly selected at
block 1176. If the maximum number of game numbers has been
selected, at block 1184 the routine may determine whether there are
a sufficient number of matches between the game numbers selected by
the player and the game numbers selected at block 1176 to cause the
player to win. The number of matches may depend on how many numbers
the player selected and the particular keno rules being used.
[0258] If there are a sufficient number of matches a payout may be
determined at block 1186 to compensate the player for winning the
game. The payout may depend on the number of matches between the
game numbers selected by the player and the game numbers randomly
selected at block 1176. At block 1188, the player's cumulative
value or number of credits may be updated by subtracting the bet
made by the player and adding, if the keno game was won, the payout
value determined at block 1186. The cumulative value or number of
credits may also be displayed in the display area 1140 (FIG.
29).
[0259] If desired, one or more of the pair of blocks 1158 and 1160
may be added in other portions of the routine as well. For example,
a similar pair of blocks may be added between blocks 1156 and
1162.
Bingo
[0260] FIG. 31 is an exemplary display 1200 that may be caused to
be displayed on the display unit 170 of one of the gaming units 20
(for example, by a gaming server 52 sending display data to the
gaming unit 20) during performance of a bingo routine. Referring to
FIG. 31, the display 1200 may include one or more video images 1202
of a bingo card and images of the bingo numbers selected during the
game. The bingo card images 1202 may have a grid pattern.
[0261] To allow the player to control the play of the bingo game, a
plurality of player-selectable buttons may be displayed. The
buttons may include a "Cash Out" button 1204, a "See Pays" button
1206, a "Bet One Credit" button 1208, a "Bet Max Credits" button
1210, a "Select Card" button 1212, and a "Play" button 1214. The
display 1200 may also include an area 1216 in which the number of
remaining credits or value is displayed.
[0262] Upon activation a button, a corresponding data message may
be transmitted from the gaming unit 20 to the gaming server 52. The
data message may have a source address that identifies the gaming
unit 20 sending the message, a destination address that identifies
the gaming server 52 to which the message is to be sent, and a data
field that contains data corresponding to the button, such as wager
data, game instruction data, etc.
[0263] Similar to the buttons described with reference to FIG. 23,
in some embodiments one or more of the buttons 1204, 1206, 1208,
1210, 1212, and 1214 may be integrated with a biometric device. For
example, the "Play" button may be integrated with a biometric
device. For instance, the "Play" button may be integrated with a
biometric device in a similar manner as described with respect to
the "Deal/Draw" button of FIG. 23. Or, the player may make a "Play"
selection by submitting biometric data via a biometric device.
Thus, as described above, submitting biometric data may be a
mechanism for providing a game play selection (e.g., a "Play"
selection). Or, biometric data may be submitted in conjunction with
making the game play selection.
[0264] FIG. 32 is a flowchart of a bingo routine 1220. The bingo
routine 1220 may be utilized in connection with a single gaming
unit 20 where a single player is playing a bingo game, or the bingo
routine 1220 may be utilized in connection with multiple gaming
units 20 where multiple players are playing a single bingo game
Referring to FIG. 32, at block 1222, it may be determined whether a
player has requested payout information. This may be determined,
for example, by detecting receipt of a "See Pays" data message from
the gaming unit 20. If yes, at block 1224 the routine may cause one
or more pay tables to be displayed on the display unit 170 of the
gaming unit 20. At block 1226, it may be determined whether a
player has requested a bet. This may be determined, for example, by
detecting receipt of a "Bet One Credit" data message or a "Bet Max
Credits" data message. If yes, control may pass to block 1232.
[0265] At block 1232, bet data corresponding to the bet made by the
player may be stored in a memory (for example, the memory of the
gaming server controller 401).
[0266] After the player has made a wager, at block 1234 the player
may select a bingo card, which may be generated randomly. The
player may select more than one bingo card, and there may be a
maximum number of bingo cards that a player may select. At block
1236, the selected card or cards is caused to be displayed on the
display unit 170.
[0267] At block 1238, it may be determined whether play of the
bingo game is to begin. If yes, control may pass to block 1228. At
block 1228, biometric data may be obtained from the player and
checked to see whether it matches that of a registered user. For
instance, the gaming server 52 may prompt the gaming unit 20 to
obtain biometric data from the user and transmit the biometric data
to the gaming server 52. The gaming unit 20 may utilize a routine
such as routine 620 (FIG. 15) to obtain biometric data.
Additionally, the gaming server 52 may transmit the obtained
biometric data to the authentication server 58, and request that
the authentication server 58 determine whether that biometric data
matches biometric data of a registered user. The authentication
server 58 may utilize a routine such as routine 770 (FIG. 19). In
embodiments that do not include an authentication server 58, the
determination of whether the biometric data matches biometric data
of a registered user may be implemented with another computing
device, such as the gaming server 52, the network computer 22, the
gaming unit 20 etc. For instance, the gaming unit 20 may compare
the biometric data obtained from the player and compare it to
biometric data stored on a smart card.
[0268] In another embodiment, at block 122a, operational control
may pass from the gaming server 52 to the authentication server 58,
or to whatever computing system that implements block 1228. Then,
operational control may pass back to the gaming server 52 at block
1230.
[0269] If the biometric data does match that of a registered user,
and, optionally, the user identified by the biometric data is
permitted to play, control may pass to block 1240. If the biometric
data does not match that of a registered user permitted to play,
then the routine may end. Prior to ending, a display may be
generated which indicates to the player that he or she has been
refused access to play the game. The display may optionally
indicate why access was denied. Additionally, instead of ending,
the routine may branch back to block 1222.
[0270] As discussed previously, submission of biometric data may be
integrated with the determination of whether the player desires to
"Play." For example, the player may submit biometric data in order
to request, or when requesting, to "Play." Thus, blocks 1238, 1228,
and 1230 may be integrated, their order rearranged, etc.
[0271] At block 1240 a bingo number may be randomly generated by
the routine. At block 1242, the bingo number may be displayed on
the display unit 170 of the gaming unit 20 and the display units
170 of any other gaming units 20 involved in the bingo game.
[0272] At block 1244, the routine may determine whether any player
has won the bingo game. If no player has won, another bingo number
may be randomly selected at block 1240. If any player has bingo as
determined at block 1244, the routine may determine at block 1246
whether the player playing that gaming unit 20 was the winner. If
so, at block 1248 a payout for the player may be determined. The
payout may depend on the number of random numbers that were drawn
before there was a winner, the total number of winners (if there
was more than one player), and the amount of money that was wagered
on the game. At block 1250, the player's cumulative value or number
of credits may be updated by subtracting the bet made by the player
and adding, if the bingo game was won, the payout value determined
at block 1248. The cumulative value or number of credits may also
be displayed in the display area 1216 (FIG. 31).
[0273] If desired, one or more of the pair of blocks 1228 and 1230
may be added in other portions of the routine as well. For example,
a similar pair of blocks may be added between blocks 1226 and
1232.
[0274] In the examples described with reference to FIGS. 23-32, the
location of the gaming unit 20 may optionally be checked, for
example using a routine such as routine 750 (FIG. 18), when the
biometric data is checked.
Game Routines Implemented on Gaming Units
[0275] Although the routines described above with reference to
FIGS. 23-32 were described in the context of being implemented via
one or more gaming servers 52, each of these routines may also be
implemented on a gaming unit 20 without a gaming server. As an
illustration, the poker routine 962 of FIG. 24 will now be
described in the context of being implemented on a gaming unit 20.
One skilled in the art will recognize that other gaming routines
may be similarly implemented on a gaming unit 20.
[0276] Referring now to FIG. 23 the player selectable buttons 952,
954, 955, 956, 957, and 958 may be, for example, buttons, buttons
displayed on the display unit 170, etc. Depending on the type of
button used, the buttons may be selected by, for example, pressing
the button, pressing an area of a touch screen display, selecting
with a mouse, or joystick, etc. Additionally, as described above,
submitting biometric data may be a mechanism for providing a game
play selection (e.g., a "Play" selection). Or, biometric data (and
optionally location data) may be submitted in conjunction with
making the game play selection.
[0277] Referring to FIG. 24, at block 964, if the player has
requested payout information, such as by activating the "See Pays"
button 955, at block 966 the routine may cause one or more pay
tables to be displayed on the display unit 170 of the gaming unit
20.
[0278] At block 968, the player may attempt to make a bet by, for
example, selecting the "Bet One Credit" button 956. At block 976,
bet data corresponding to the bet made by the player may be stored
in a memory (for example, the memory of the gaming unit controller
200).
[0279] At block 978, the routine may determine whether the player
has activated the "Bet Max Credits" button 957. If yes, control may
pass to block 980. At block 980, bet data corresponding to the bet
made by the player may be stored in a memory (for example, the
memory of the gaming unit controller 200).
[0280] At block 982, the routine may determine if the player
desires a new hand to be dealt, (for example, by detecting a
selection of the "Deal/Draw" button 958). If yes, then control may
pass to blocks 970. At block 970, biometric data may be obtained
from the player and checked to see whether it matches that of a
registered user. For instance, the gaming unit 20 may obtain
biometric data from the user and transmit the biometric data to the
authentication server 58 and request that the authentication server
58 determine whether that biometric data matches biometric data of
a registered user. The authentication server 58 may utilize a
routine such as routine 770 (FIG. 19). In embodiments that do not
include an authentication server 58, the determination of whether
the biometric data matches biometric data of a registered user may
be implemented with another computing device, such as the network
computer 22 or the gaming unit 20. For instance, the gaming unit 20
may compare the biometric data obtained from the player and compare
it to biometric data stored on a smart card.
[0281] In another embodiment, at block 970, operational control may
pass from the gaming unit 20 to the authentication server 58, or to
whatever computing system that implements block 970. Then,
operational control may pass back to the gaming unit 20 at block
972.
[0282] If the biometric data does match that of a registered user,
and, optionally, the user identified by the biometric data is
permitted to play, control may pass to block 984. If the biometric
data does not match that of a registered user permitted to play,
then the routine may end. Prior to ending, a display may be
generated which indicates to the player that he or she has been
refused access to play the game. The display may optionally
indicate why access was denied. Additionally, instead of ending,
the routine may branch back to block 964.
[0283] As discussed previously, submission of biometric data may be
integrated with the determination of whether the player desires a
new hand to be dealt. For example, the player may submit biometric
data in order to request, or when requesting, a new hand to be
dealt. Thus, blocks 982, 970, and 972 may be integrated, their
order rearranged, etc.
[0284] At block 984, a video poker hand may be "dealt" by causing
the display unit 170 to generate the playing card images 951. After
the hand is dealt, at block 986 the routine may determine if the
player selected a "Hold" button 952. If yes, data regarding which
of the playing card images 951 are to be "held" may be stored in a
memory (for example, the memory of the gaming unit controller 200)
at block 388.
[0285] If the user selects the "Deal/Draw" button 958 as determined
at block 990, each of the playing card images 951--that was not
"held" may be caused to disappear from the video display 950 and to
be replaced by a new, randomly selected, playing card image 951 at
block 992.
[0286] At block 994, the routine may determine whether the poker
hand represented by the playing card images 951 currently displayed
is a winner. That determination may be made by comparing data
representing the currently displayed poker hand with data
representing all possible winning hands, which may be stored in a
memory (for example, the memory of the gaming unit controller 200).
If there is a winning hand, a payout value corresponding to the
winning hand may be determined at block 996. At block 998, the
player's cumulative value or number of credits may be updated by
subtracting the bet made by the player and adding, if the hand was
a winner, the payout value determined at block 996. The cumulative
value or number of credits may also be displayed in the display
area 959 (FIG. 23).
[0287] In the above description, various methods have been
described with reference to flow diagrams. It will be apparent to
one of ordinary skill in the art that each of these methods may be
implemented, in whole or in part, by software, hardware, and/or
firmware. If implemented, in whole or in part, by software, the
software may be stored on a tangible medium such as a CD-ROM, a
floppy disk, a hard drive, a digital versatile disk (DVD), a
read-only memory (ROM), etc.
[0288] Further, although the examples described above were
described with reference to various flow diagrams, one of ordinary
skill in the art will appreciate that many other methods may
alternatively be used. For instance, various levels of
authentication may alternatively be used. As one example, for small
wagers may require submission of biometric data corresponding to
one fingerprint, whereas large wagers may require submitting finger
prints from multiple different fingers, submitting to an eye scan
in addition to a finger print scan, etc. Also, the order of
execution of the blocks may be changed, and/or some or all of the
blocks may be changed, eliminated, or combined.
[0289] In various embodiments, a gaming apparatus may be used for
making purchases. In various embodiments, a mobile gaming unit may
be used for making purchases. The gaming apparatus may display
and/or may store a balance of casino credits, cash, comp points, or
other valuable currency. The currency may be used to acquire
products or services, such as jewelry, meals, entry into a spa, and
any other products or services. In various embodiments, a user may
bring a mobile gaming unit to a store. The user may select an item
to buy. Price information about the item may then be communicated
to the mobile gaming unit. The price may be communicated in various
ways. The mobile gaming unit may detect an RFID tag on the product.
The RFID tag may transmit a signal indicative of the price of the
item. The mobile gaming unit may also receive price information
from a point-of-sale (POS) terminal of the store. For example, the
mobile gaming unit and the POS terminal may communicate via
wireless transmissions (e.g., via infrared transmissions). The
mobile gaming unit may also receive pricing information through one
or more networks or network devices. The mobile gaming unit may
receive pricing information through a casino network, and from a
gaming server, website server, or any other server. The mobile
gaming unit may also receive pricing information through another
network, such as through a retail network. For example, the mobile
gaming unit may receive pricing information that has been
transmitted from a POS terminal to another device in a retail
network, then to a device in a casino network, then to the mobile
gaming unit. Upon receiving pricing information, or even without
having received pricing information, the mobile gaming device may
query the user to see whether he wishes to pay the price for the
item. The user may then either indicate an acceptance or not. For
example, a user may press a button on the mobile gaming unit, with
one button indicating acceptance and one button indicating that the
user does not accept. If the user does accept, the user may be
asked to input a biometric. For example, the user may be asked to
put his thumb on a biometric reader associated with the mobile
gaming unit. The user's biometric may then be used to authenticate
the user, e.g., by transmitting the biometric to the authentication
server. After the user has been authenticated, a deduction of
money, credits, or other currency may be authorized from an account
associated with the user. For example, gaming credits may be
deducted from the user's credit balance. The gaming credits or
other currency deducted from the user may be added to a balance
associated with the retailer or other party from whom the user is
making a purchase. In various embodiments, an equivalent value may
be added to the balance associated with the merchant or other
party. Thus, in various embodiments, a user may use a biometric
input to authorize a purchasing transaction. The transaction may
further take place using gaming credits, comp points, or other
casino related currency. In various embodiments, the transaction
may take place using credits that a user has won while playing at a
gaming apparatus, such as at a mobile gaming unit. In various
embodiments, a purchasing transaction may take place through any
gaming apparatus. A user may authorize a purchase to be made
through a slot machine, video poker machine, or through any other
gaming device. To provide authorization, the user may provide a
biometric input, such as a finger print. In various embodiments, a
user may make a purchase from the Internet through a gaming
apparatus. The user may be asked a price or may be asked whether a
certain price is acceptable for making a purchase. The user may
provide a biometric input to effect the authorization of the
purchase. A number of gaming credits equivalent to the price may
then be deducted from the user's account. An equivalent amount of
money may then be transmitted to the merchant from whom the
purchase is being made. In various embodiments, the casino may keep
a fee, such as 2% of the purchase price, for enabling the
transaction (e.g., for transmitting information between the user's
gaming device and the merchant's server on the Internet).
[0290] In various embodiments, a user may make a purchase selection
when the user indicates an item to buy, indicates a price he is
willing to pay for an item, indicates approval when asked if he
wants to buy an item, indicates via input buttons or other input
mechanisms to his gaming unit that he wishes to buy an item, or in
any other way indicates a desire to make a purchase.
[0291] In various embodiments, permitting a purchase selection may
include permitting a person to go through with a purchase.
Permitting a purchase selection may include allowing a person to
pay for a product or service using some account or balance, and
allowing the person to receive the product or service.
[0292] In various embodiments, a user may supply a biometric input
in order to authorize a credit card transaction. The user may
supply the biometric input to a gaming unit, whereupon data about
the biometric input may be transmitted to one or more other devices
in a network. If the biometric input is found to match a biometric
already associated with the user's credit card, then the credit
card transaction may be allowed to proceed. Various embodiments may
similarly apply to debit card, smart card, and charge card
transactions made through a gaming unit.
[0293] In various embodiments, a user may supply a biometric in
order to authorize any payment made through a gaming unit, such as
through mobile gaming unit.
[0294] In various embodiments, a user may be asked to provide a
biometric authentication if the user has indicated a play or
decision that is considered poor strategy. In games such as video
poker and blackjack, the user has the opportunity to make plays
that may significantly impact his chances of winning or losing.
When there are a number of possible plays available, the plays may
be ranked according to some criteria. For example, plays may be
ranked according to the expected winnings that result from the
play. A user who selects a play that falls low in the rankings of
possible plays (e.g., low in the rankings according to expected
winnings) may be asked to provide a biometric input before the
user's decision takes effect. In various embodiments, a user who
selects a play with a score or ranking that differs from an optimal
score or from a top ranking by a certain amount will be asked to
enter a biometric input before the user's decision takes effect.
For example, if a user can make a decision in a game that results
in expected winnings of $5, the user may be asked for a biometric
input if he chooses any play with expected winnings of less than
$4. In various embodiments, asking a user to provide a biometric
input prior to making a "bad" play may help to ensure that the user
is truly the one making the decision and it is not some stranger
making the decision.
[0295] In various embodiments, a user may be asked to provide a
biometric input when claiming a jackpot or other large payout or
prize. In various embodiments, the user may be provided with the
jackpot only if the biometric input provided when he is claiming
the jackpot matches the biometric input that was provided to the
gaming unit, before the jackpot game, that generated the jackpot.
In various embodiments, if a particular gaming unit is registered
to a particular user with a biometric input on record, a jackpot
won at that gaming device may only be claimed by a user who
supplies a matching biometric.
[0296] In various embodiments, a biometric input may be asked of a
user in order to initiate a sequence of automatically played games.
For example, a user may request that a gaming device generate 100
games automatically for the user without further input from the
user. The gaming unit may require a biometric input from the user
in order to initiate the sequence. Once an authentication of the
biometric input has taken place (e.g., once it has been determined
that the biometric input matches that provided by the user who had
initially registered his biometric input in association with the
gaming unit), the sequence of automatic games may commence. In
various embodiments, a user must supply a biometric input in order
to bring a sequence of automatically generated games to a halt
before the sequence has been completed.
[0297] In various embodiments, a user may be asked to supply a
biometric input at a gaming unit in order to place a phone call
through the unit. If the biometric input is authenticated, the user
may be allowed to make a phone call. The unit may allow a phone
call, for example, by transmitting and receiving wireless signals
from a cellular base station, and by transforming voice signals to
and from electronic signals using, e.g., microphones and
speakers.
[0298] In various embodiments, a player may be permitted or
prevented from making a purchase through a gaming unit based on the
location of the gaming unit. For example, if the location of the
gaming unit is a first location, a purchase may be permitted, while
if the location of the gaming unit is a second location, the
purchase may be denied. For example, a casino may wish to make some
shops exclusive to premium players. Thus, players trying to pay
through mobile gaming units at those premium shops may be denied
the ability. In various embodiments, allowed purchases may require
a valid biometric and a valid location.
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