U.S. patent application number 12/857698 was filed with the patent office on 2011-02-10 for systems and methods for remotely providing goods/services to gaming customers.
Invention is credited to Christine J. Denlay, John Denlay, Mike Dugan, Gary Frerking, Scott Olive, Lattamore D. Osburn, Gareth Phillips, Kent Reisdorph, Jeffrey S. Topham.
Application Number | 20110034238 12/857698 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 43535228 |
Filed Date | 2011-02-10 |
United States Patent
Application |
20110034238 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Phillips; Gareth ; et
al. |
February 10, 2011 |
SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR REMOTELY PROVIDING GOODS/SERVICES TO GAMING
CUSTOMERS
Abstract
An system for gaming customers to remotely order goods and/or
services through use of player points is disclosed. The player
points relate to gaming activity. The system comprises at least one
computer system. The computer system includes a processor and
memory in electronic communication with the processor. The computer
system also includes a communications interface in electronic
communication with the processor. A request is received from a
player terminal through the communications interface to access the
system. The player is provided with account information. Goods
and/or services information is presented to the player at a player
terminal display. The goods and/or services information relate to
items that may be ordered by the player. Order instructions are
sent for order fulfillment. Used player points are debited for the
order from the player points.
Inventors: |
Phillips; Gareth; (Bramhall,
GB) ; Olive; Scott; (Narrabeen, AU) ;
Reisdorph; Kent; (Henderson, NV) ; Frerking;
Gary; (Henderson, NV) ; Dugan; Mike; (North
Las Vegas, NV) ; Osburn; Lattamore D.; (Las Vegas,
NV) ; Topham; Jeffrey S.; (Las Vegas, NV) ;
Denlay; Christine J.; (Ryde, AU) ; Denlay; John;
(Ryde, AU) |
Correspondence
Address: |
MCANDREWS HELD & MALLOY, LTD
500 WEST MADISON STREET, SUITE 3400
CHICAGO
IL
60661
US
|
Family ID: |
43535228 |
Appl. No.: |
12/857698 |
Filed: |
August 17, 2010 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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11531225 |
Sep 12, 2006 |
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12857698 |
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60716628 |
Sep 13, 2005 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
463/25 ; 463/42;
463/43 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G07F 17/32 20130101;
G07F 17/3255 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
463/25 ; 463/42;
463/43 |
International
Class: |
A63F 9/24 20060101
A63F009/24 |
Claims
1. A system for gaming customers to remotely order goods and/or
services through use of player points, wherein the player points
relate to gaming activity, the system comprising: a memory storing
for player account information including player points; and a
processor configured to (1) receive a request for accessing the
account information, (2) present goods and/or services information
including player-selectable items; a terminal configured for a
selection of an item; one of said terminal and processor configured
to (1) send order instructions for fulfilling order based on said
selection; and (2) debit player points corresponding to the
selection.
2. The system as defined in claim 1, further comprising a
goods/services database.
3. The system as defined in claim 1, wherein one of said processor
and terminal authenticates before allowing a game play of the
system.
4. The system as defined in claim 1, wherein the account
information includes total player points.
5. The system as defined in claim 1, wherein at least one of said
processor and terminal is configured to provide a plurality of
groups a different menu of selections, assign each player to a
group and display goods and/or services information for the
player's group to the player.
6. The system as defined in claim 1 wherein said processor is
configured to consolidate at least a portion of the player points
from a plurality of player point accounts.
7. The system as defined in claim 1, wherein said memory further
comprises player registry data corresponding to a selection of
goods and/or services for acquisition by others.
8. The system as defined in claim 2, wherein said processor is
configured to provide communications with a remote distribution
facility through the communications interface to synchronize the
goods/services database.
9. The system as defined in claim 1, wherein the memory stores data
corresponding to player account information defining player
records, and wherein each player record includes a player
identification, a player address, a gaming history and a player
points total.
10. The system as defined in claim 2, wherein the goods/services
database comprises a plurality of product records, and wherein each
product record includes a product identification, a player points
price and stock level information.
11. A method for gaming customers of a host to remotely order goods
and/or services through use of player points, wherein the player
points relate to gaming activity, the method comprising:
Accumulating player points from gaming activity; receiving a player
request, through a communications interface, for ordering goods
and/or services with the accumulated player points; authenticating
the player request; presenting goods and/or services information
including player selectable items; receiving one or more items as
an order; sending order instructions corresponding to the order;
and debiting player points corresponding to the order from the
accumulated player points.
12. The method as defined in claim 11, further comprising:
communicating with a remote casino server through the
communications interface to synchronize player point information
between a player points database and the casino server; and
communicating with a remote distribution facility through the
communications interface to synchronize a goods/services database
with the remote distribution facility.
13. The method as defined in claim 12, further comprising:
providing the player with a group processing feature whereby one of
the players and host is able to make changes to any groups the
player belongs to; providing the player with a point consolidation
feature whereby the player is able to consolidate points from one
or more player point accounts; providing the player with a point
transfer feature whereby the player is able to transfer points to
or from other players or other point accounts; and providing the
player with a registry configuration feature whereby the player is
able to register particular goods and/or services as part of a
registry.
14. A method for a casino to enable a player to redeem loyalty
award points issued to the player by at least the casino, said
method comprising: (a) providing a memory structure to store for
the player an account of the loyalty award points awarded by the
casino in response to wagering activity of the player; (b) the
player establishing communication between (i) a terminal and said
memory structure and (ii) a provider of goods/services offering a
selection thereof to the player in exchange for points; (c)
controlling the terminal to permit the display of information
concerning the goods/services and the player at the terminal
selecting a good or service to be redeemed for points; (d) debiting
the account of player points for the redemption and if the
redemption is completed; and (e) issuing instructions to the
provider for the good/service to be provided to the player.
15. The method of claim 14 comprising assigning the player to one
of a plurality of player groups, each group including players
having one or more like characteristics selected from the group
including points in the player account, wagering activity of the
player, player demographics, location and type of wagering
activity.
16. The method of claim 15 comprising providing different menus of
goods/services to each player group and controlling the terminal to
display information concerning the goods/services available to the
player.
17. The method of claim 14 comprising the player supplementing the
redemption of the selected good or service with additional
consideration.
18. The method of claim 14 comprising configuring the terminal to
be one of an electronic gaming machine, a kiosk, personal computer,
PDA or cellular telephone.
19. A method for a casino and at least one provider of goods or
services to provide the same to customers comprising: for each
customer storing data in a data structure related to the economic
activity of the customer at least at said casino, said data
including comp points; at a terminal the establishing communication
between a server remote from the terminal and said data structure,
said server controlling the terminal to display to the player a
menu of goods/services available for redemption by the customer in
exchange for comp points; the player at the terminal entering a
selection to be redeemed; said server debiting the customer's comp
points in exchange for the redemption; and the server issuing
instructions to fulfill the redemption and provide the selection to
the customer.
20. A system for gaming customers to remotely order goods and/or
services through use of player points, wherein the player points
relate to gaming activity, wherein the system comprises at least
one computer system that is configured to implement a method for
gaming customers to remotely order goods and/or services through
use of the player points, the system comprising: a processor; a
memory in electronic communication with the processor, said memory
storing for each player account information including player
points; a player terminal including a display; a communications
interface in electronic communication with the processor; said
processor configured to (1) receive a request from a player
terminal through the communications interface to access the account
information, (2) present goods and/or services information to the
player at the terminal display, wherein the goods and/or services
information relate to items that may be selected by the player;
said terminal configured for the player to select an item; one of
said terminal and processor configured to (1) send order
instructions for order fulfillment of said selection; and (2)
record the selection.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of co-pending U.S.
application Ser. No. 11/531,225, filed Sep. 12, 2006 and is related
to and claims priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application
Ser. No. 60/716,628, filed Sep. 13, 2005, the entire content of
which are incorporated herein by reference.
FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT
[0002] [Not Applicable]
MICROFICHE/COPYRIGHT REFERENCE
[0003] [Not Applicable]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0004] The present invention relates generally to gaming systems.
More specifically, the present invention relates to systems and
methods for remotely providing goods/services to gaming customers
including in exchange for loyalty points awarded during wagering
activity.
[0005] Gaming machines, such as slot machines or poker machines
(collectively referred to herein as "slot machines"), as well as
live table games and (where permitted) sports wagering are popular,
exciting, and sophisticated wagering activities available at
casinos and other gambling locations. Competition between casinos
has intensified as competitors vie for business from patrons.
[0006] In order to induce loyalty among gaming patrons it is known
to provide players with machine readable player tracking cards
(sometimes called "loyalty" cards). These cards are issued by the
casinos and typically bear machine readable indicia which is used
to identify the holder of the card. Boushy, U.S. Pat. No.
5,761,647, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference,
describes a system which includes the issuance of a machine
readable player tracing card to a player. As is known, when a
player uses their card by presenting the card to a reader at a slot
machine, play by the player is tracked for purposes of awarding
"comp" (also know as loyalty) points. "Comp" points may be awarded
based upon wager amount, for example. Likewise "comp" points can be
awarded to a player for table game play and sports wagering using
the card to identify the player to the system. Other than cards,
biometric data of the player, RFID and other devices may be used to
identify a player to a player tracking system.
[0007] The system referred to in the proceeding and according to
known techniques, includes a host processor storing player
identification information as well as storing a "comp" point
account for each enrolled player. As the player earns comp points
by using their card while wagering, points are accumulated into the
player's account. According to the prior art, the casino can, for
certain periods to induce play, award comp points at higher rates
than normal or award "bulk" points without play by the player.
[0008] Comp points can be redeemed by the player at the casino by
receiving, most typically, cash back, discounts at casino
restaurants and for hotel accommodations. In some casinos players
can use their points to buy goods, such as souvenirs, at the casino
gift shop. When the player takes cash back or uses points to buy
goods or services, points are deducted from the player's
account.
[0009] Since comp points, according to the prior art, were strictly
directed toward getting a patron to wager and enabling the player
to only use their points in the casino (or affiliated casinos such
as any casino in a chain or affiliate group), the options open to
the player as to the redemption of their points are limited. They,
according to the prior art, were limited to only casino-provided
goods and services. Thus for goods the casino must order, ship and
stock goods which are appealing to players if the ability to
purchase goods with loyalty points is to be effective. Further
there are overhead costs such as employees, floor space, etc.
associated with stocking comp redeemable goods. Still further, to
use the points the patron had to physically go to the casino and
the venue, e.g. gift shop, to use their points to "buy" products
offered by the casino. These drawbacks have limited the impact and
effectiveness of the casino's loyalty points and awards
program.
[0010] Player loyalty programs and the features thereof permit
casinos to attract and retain the gaming public. By offering new
and exciting features, casinos can attract and retain players from
other casinos.
[0011] From the standpoint of manufacturers and sellers of player
loyalty systems, the ability to provide attractive features for the
casino to implement can make the manufacturer's system a preference
over competing systems.
[0012] There is a need for a system which provides greater utility
and freedom in the use of player "comp" points. There is further a
need for a system which increases the effectiveness of the player
loyalty system. There is further a need for a system which can
relieve the casino of the ordering and inventorying of various
goods for redemption. There is further a need for a system and
method by which a player can redeem comp points without having to
physically travel to the casino to use their card or pick up the
goods or use the services. There is further a need by which a
casino can cross-brand or cross-market itself with other companies.
There is a need for a system and method whereby the player can
remotely redeem comp points for goods/services using, for example,
their home personal computer, PDA or cellular telephone.
[0013] In view of the foregoing, benefits may be realized by
improved systems and methods for managing player points. Some
exemplary systems and methods for managing player points are
described herein.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0014] There is, accordingly, set forth according to the present
invention a system and method whereby a player may exchange comp
points accrued based upon at least gaming activity of the player at
a casino to acquire goods/services.
[0015] Toward this end there is set forth a system and method for
gaming customers to remotely order goods and/or services through
use of player points, wherein the player points relate at least to
gaming activity of the player at, for example, a gaming device or
gaming table. The system includes at least one computer system that
is configured to enable players to remotely exchange player points
for goods and/or services. The system includes a processor and a
memory in electronic communication with the processor. The memory
stores data for each player including account information
reflecting the player points accrued to the player's account. Also
provided is a player terminal including a display, such as, for
example, a personal computer, gaming terminal, player tracking
module display, kiosk, PDA, cellular telephone or the like
(collectively referred to as a "terminal"). A communications
interface provides electronic communication between the terminal
and the processor. The processor is configured to receive a request
from a player terminal through the communications interface to
access the player's account information. A precursor to access may
include security features such as authentication of the player as
by personal identification number (PIN), input/acquisition of
player biometric data, or the like. After communication is
established, with or without further input, the system controls the
display to present goods and/or services information to the player.
This information may include (a) the goods/services for which the
player has sufficient points to redeem and/or (b) all goods and
services or goods and services of (a) plus goods/services the play
can redeem by augmenting the redeemed points with other
consideration such as cash, credit card or casino credit. The
terminal is configured for the player to select one or more items.
In response to the selection by the player, one or both of the
terminal and processor are configured to (1) send order
instructions for order fulfillment of the player's selection(s) and
to (2) debit player points corresponding to the selection. Where
the selection requires augmentation the player at the terminal
inputs information/consideration to accommodate the selection.
[0016] According to one embodiment, the player selections are
offered by third party suppliers/fulfillment houses. Via a
communications link, either when the selection is made and points
debited or at a later time through, for example, a batch process,
the player's selections are sent for fulfillment. The entity
fulfilling the order may be instructed to ship to the customer
directly or ship to the casino for pick up by the player.
[0017] As a feature, players may be grouped based upon, for
example, the amount of accrued points in their accounts. Menus of
goods/services may be configured such that different menu groups
may be provided to different player groups. To encourage play, the
system may be configured to display to the player at least the next
higher group menu and the number of points necessary for the player
to enter the next higher group.
[0018] As still another feature, the system and method may be
configured to at least occasionally display to players at the
casino, such as banners, "tickers" or other displays at gaming
terminals, the goods and services available to the player as well
as advertising. Revenues from advertising helps defray the costs
associated with the good/services showcase offering of the present
invention.
[0019] The display used by the system and method of the present
invention may be the game display itself, a portion of the game
display, a separate display, e.g. a secondary gaming display used
to display game information, a portion of the secondary gaming
display, a separate, dedicated display or a display provided for
the player tracking module.
[0020] As yet another feature, players may enroll in a registry and
select goods/services they would like. Companion players such as a
husband or wife may access the registry and select the
corresponding goods/services as a gift, for example.
[0021] Comp points may also be accrued from economic activity other
than gaming. For example, comp points may be earned for dining,
shopping, lodging at the host casino property or at an affiliate or
approved business.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS
[0022] Exemplary embodiments of the invention will become more
fully apparent from the following description and appended claims,
taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Understanding
that these drawings depict only exemplary embodiments and are,
therefore, not to be considered limiting of the invention's scope,
the exemplary embodiments of the invention will be described with
additional specificity and detail through use of the accompanying
drawings in which:
[0023] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a system and method for
remotely providing goods and/or services to gaming customers;
[0024] FIG. 2 is a flow diagram of an embodiment of a method for
remotely providing goods/services to gaming customers;
[0025] FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a gaming machine in
general;
[0026] FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a casino gaming network;
[0027] FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating multiple casinos
sharing a common server;
[0028] FIG. 6 is a block diagram of the showcase server;
[0029] FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating multiple player
points databases and multiple goods/services databases being used
in the showcase server;
[0030] FIG. 8 is a block diagram of an embodiment of a player
record stored in a player points database;
[0031] FIG. 9 is a block diagram of an embodiment of a product
record stored in a goods/services database;
[0032] FIG. 10 is a block diagram of an embodiment of a casino
record;
[0033] FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating the major hardware
components typically utilized in a computing device or computer
system;
[0034] FIG. 12 is a flow diagram of an embodiment of a method of
operation for a showcase server;
[0035] FIG. 13 is a flow diagram of an embodiment of a method of
operation for a distribution facility; and
[0036] FIG. 14 is a flow diagram of an embodiment of a method for a
gaming customer to obtain goods/services through the use of the
present system.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0037] Various embodiments of the invention are now described with
reference to the Figures, where like reference numbers indicate
identical or functionally similar elements. The embodiments of the
present invention, as generally described and illustrated in the
Figures herein, could be arranged and designed in a wide variety of
different configurations. Thus, the following more detailed
description of several exemplary embodiments of the present
invention, as represented in the Figures, is not intended to limit
the scope of the invention, as claimed, but is merely
representative of the embodiments of the invention.
[0038] The word "exemplary" is used exclusively herein to mean
"serving as an example, instance, or illustration." Any embodiment
described herein as "exemplary" is not necessarily to be construed
as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments. While the
various aspects of the embodiments are presented in drawings, the
drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale unless specifically
indicated.
[0039] Many features of the embodiments disclosed herein may be
implemented as computer software, electronic hardware, or
combinations of both. To clearly illustrate this interchangeability
of hardware and software, various components will be described
generally in terms of their functionality. Whether such
functionality is implemented as hardware or software depends upon
the particular application and design constraints imposed on the
overall system. Skilled artisans may implement the described
functionality in varying ways for each particular application, but
such implementation decisions should not be interpreted as causing
a departure from the scope of the present invention.
[0040] Where the described functionality is implemented as computer
software, such software may include any type of computer
instruction or computer executable code located within a memory
device and/or transmitted as electronic signals over a system bus
or network. Software that implements the functionality associated
with components described herein may comprise a single instruction,
or many instructions, and may be distributed over several different
code segments, among different programs, and across several memory
devices.
[0041] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a system 100 for remotely
providing goods and/or services to gaming customers. FIG. 1
illustrates two casinos, casino A 102a and casino B 102b. The
illustration of each casino 102a,b in FIG. 1 includes gaming
machines 104a and 104b and kiosks 106a and 106b in electronic
communication with the casino slot account and player tracking
servers 108a and 108b (hereinafter "casino servers"). While only
one gaming machine 104a,b and kiosk 106a,b are shown for each
casino 102a, b, it should be understood that each casino 102a,b may
have thousands of gaming machines 104a,b and several kiosks 106a,b.
Further, while a plurality of casinos 102a,b are shown it should be
understood that the system 100 and method of the present invention
could be implemented at a single casino or within a group of three
or more. Further there could be a single casino server 108a for
multiple casinos.
[0042] Each casino server 108a,b is configured to at least store
and provide access to player account data stored thereat or at
another memory location. In a memory (data structure) data
associated with each player is retained and updated by the system
100. For example, for each player, the system may store name,
address and other personal information as well as store comp points
awarded to or earned by the player. In response to a player playing
a gaming machine 104a,b, player points are earned. The player may
also earn points through "table" gaming, e.g. playing live
Blackjack, Craps, Pai Gow. As points are earned they eventually, if
not in real time, are accumulated into the corresponding player's
account. Points may be awarded through promotions. The accumulation
and awarding of comp points is as is known in the art. Points may
be awarded for other economic activity of the player within and
outside the casino. For example, dining, lodging and shopping at
the casino may earn points. Also dining, shopping, lodging,
traveling or acquiring other goods and services of partnering,
co-branding or authorized third parties may earn points as well.
Points may be awarded in bulk or at an enhanced rate to stimulate
play by the customers.
[0043] Each server 108a and 108b is in electronic communication
with a showcase server 112 via a computer network 110a. It should
be noted that the showcase server 112 could be part of one of the
casino servers 108a,b, housed at the same location or be located at
a remote site. The showcase server 112 includes one or more
computers that enable a gaming customer (player) to remotely
preview and/or order goods/services using his or her player points
accessed from a casino server 108a or 108b. The showcase server 112
may include a casino player points database 442, discussed in
detail with FIG. 4. The showcase server 112 may also provide the
additional features and functionality as disclosed and described
herein. Alternatively, the player accounts and points are
accumulated and stored at one or both of the casino servers 108a,b;
but are accessible by the showcase server 112.
[0044] The gaming machines 104a,b track player points (as do other
sources referenced above) and submit them to a casino server 108a,
b. In one embodiment at least each player's accumulated point data
is copied to the showcase server 112. In another embodiment the
accumulated player points remain resident on at least one of the
casino servers 108a,b and are accessible by the system 100 for
purposes which will become apparent. The showcase server 112 is in
electronic communication with one or more distribution facilities
114 via a network 110c. The distribution facilities 114 receive
orders for goods and/or services and fulfill such orders. For
example, one distribution facility 114 may be a fulfillment
warehouse storing inventories of a plurality of goods to be offered
to players. This facility, upon receiving an order packages and
ships the ordered good to the player or other designated addressee.
In another embodiment the distribution facility 114 may be defined
as one or more servers dedicated to or hosted by a plurality of
goods vendors, e.g. clothing companies, jewelry companies, service
companies such as travel (airlines) and lodging, household goods
and the like. When a player accesses the showcase server 112, each
or several participating vendor's goods and services are provided
for preview and/or ordering. When selected, the selection is
transmitted to and processed by the appropriate vendor for
fulfillment of the order. Vendors may vie for "top billing" in the
hierarchy of the display of goods and may pay or provide a premium
to the casino for such top billing.
[0045] The player may access the showcase server 112 remotely
through various kinds of computing devices. For example, the player
may access the showcase server 112 through a gaming machine 104, a
kiosk 106, a home computer 116, a mobile device 118 such as a
personal data assistant (PDA) or cellular telephone, etc. The term
player terminal may also be used to refer to a gaming machine 104,
but can also be more broadly used to refer a kiosk 106, a home
computer 116, a mobile device 118 such as a personal data assistant
(PDA) or cellular telephone, etc.
[0046] Each casino has various gaming machines 104 that track
player points and communicates them to a casino server 108a,b for
accumulation thereof. As stated above, points may be accumulated
from other sources as well. Network 110a, as all other networks in
this embodiment, may use standard networking protocols, such as
transmission control protocol/internet protocol (TCP/IP), user
datagram protocol (UDP), telnet, file transfer protocol (FTP),
hypertext transport protocol (HTTP), internet control message
protocol (ICMP), internet group management protocol (IGMP), etc.
Documents, such as hypertext markup language (HTML), extensible
markup language (XML), rich text format (RTF), etc., may be
transmitted to and/or from a casino server 108a or 108b over the
network 110a to the showcase server 112.
[0047] In an embodiment of the system 100 which is an alternative
to the one illustrated in FIG. 1, player communications via the
kiosk 106a, b, PC 116, mobile device 118 or from the gaming machine
104a, b itself may first route through a casino server 108a, b. In
this way the host (i.e. casino) can control access and security as
well as maintain the immediate client contact to advertise,
announce promotions and events or the like. In this embodiment the
player would communicate with a casino server 108a, b which, in
turn, would communicate with the showcase server 112 through the
network 110a.
[0048] The showcase server 112 stores or can access data
representing goods or services which a player can purchase using
their player points. Players may access the showcase server 112
through a gaming machine 104 and/or a kiosk 106 or PC 115 or mobile
device 118 as described above, which are shown in electronic
communication with the showcase server 112 via a second computer
network 110b. When a player establishes communication with the
system 100 they can monitor their point levels, transfer points to
other accounts, and redeem their points for goods/services as
hereinafter described. Goods/services information may be stored on
the showcase server 112 in a goods and services database 668,
discussed in detail in connection with FIG. 9.
[0049] The showcase server 112 is shown in electronic communication
with one or more distribution facilities 114 via a computer network
110c. The distribution facilities 114 receive orders for goods
and/or services and fulfill such orders. When a player redeems
points for a good, for example, the showcase server 112 transmits
the order data via network 110c to the corresponding distribution
facilities 114, that then ships the prize to the player's
corresponding address or other addressee. In order to have the
player come back to the casino, the casino may require the player
to come back to pick up their ordered goods at the casino.
Alternatively, upon selecting a good and consummating the
transaction the system transmits the player's address to the
distribution facility for shipment to that address. As yet a
further alternative, the player may indicate an address other than
theirs as the recipient to, for example, send the selection as a
present to another.
[0050] FIG. 2 is a flow diagram 200 of an embodiment of a method
for remotely providing goods/services to gaming customers. The
player plays 202 a gaming machine 104 and earns loyalty points
based on his or her play. The gaming customer may then access 204
the showcase server 112. The gaming customer may access 204 the
showcase server 112 remotely through a gaming machine 104, a kiosk
106, a home computer 116, a mobile device 118 (e.g., a cellular
phone, a laptop, etc.), etc.
[0051] After the customer has accessed 204 the showcase server 112,
he or she may review 206 the available goods/services. The player
may select 208 the desired goods and/or services and may exchange
210 loyalty points for the selected goods/services. As described
below, based upon selected factors such as loyalty point levels,
average loyalty point levels over time, player information (e.g.
local versus tourist), player worth or the like, the system may be
configured to offer different showcases. That is, for highly prized
customers, the showcase may have a wider selection or provide more
elegant/expensive goods/services.
[0052] If the item ordered is a good, the goods are then shipped
212 to the gaming customer from a distribution facility 114. If the
item ordered is a service, some form of certificate or voucher (not
shown) may be printed and sent to the gaming customer.
[0053] FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a gaming machine 304 in
general. Possible gaming machines 304 include, but are not limited
to, slot machines, video poker machines, or other video or
electro-mechanical machines, and the like.
[0054] A gaming machine 304 may include a game control CPU 334 that
is responsible for carrying out the main functions of the gaming
machine 304. The CPU 334 executes each game as the player interacts
with the gaming machine 304, including visually and/or audibly
interacting with the player, as well as generating game outcomes.
In addition, the CPU 334 processes network information by receiving
data from, and sending data to, the communications interface 340.
The CPU 334 may include a microprocessor and associated memory (not
shown in FIG. 3). Depending upon the type of gaming machine 304,
the CPU 334 may directly carry out some or all of the functions
that the communications interface 340 may carry out.
[0055] The gaming machine 304 may include a number of peripheral
devices including, for example, a card reader 348 and a keypad 350.
The card reader 348 and keypad 350 may be used to identify the
player at the gaming machine 304. The casino 102 may issue a player
a player card (not shown) through an application process, or
similar method. A player card typically includes a magnetic stripe
that is encoded with data to identify the player. In some cases, a
personal identification number (PIN) is given to the player for
security, and may allow access to certain features of the gaming
machine 304. The player card is readable by the card reader 348
that may be found in each of the gaming machines 104a and 104b.
Other types of cards may be utilized including optical cards, smart
cards, RFID devices (cards, cell phones, fobs), etc.
[0056] In addition, a unique number may be encoded onto a magnetic
stripe carried by the card. This unique number corresponds to
player information 346 that may be maintained by a casino server
108 and stored in a casino player points database 442 (which will
be discussed below in connection with FIG. 4). The player
information 346 may be different from a player record 880, depicted
in an embodiment in FIG. 8. Typically, the player information 346
stored on the casino player points database 442 contains more data
than the player record 880 stored on the showcase server 112. In
one embodiment, the player information 346 may include data such as
the player's name, address, amount of credit available, amount of
promotional credits, amount of loyalty points, etc.
[0057] The player may insert his or her player card into a card
receiving slot (not shown) for reading by the card reader 348. The
communications interface 340 detects the card insertion and
receives the identification data contained on the player card. For
example, the data contained on the player card may be a player
identification number 882 to retrieve player information 346 from
the casino player points database 442.
[0058] The communications interface 340 provides display signals to
a display 338 in order to, for example, display the player's name
or other messages. The communications interface 340 may provide
additional display signals to a supplemental display 330. Select
messages may be displayed, for example, requesting the player to
optionally enter his or her personal identification number (PIN)
using the keypad 350. Where the PIN is optionally entered by the
player, the communications interface 340 communicates with the
casino server 108 via a network connection 360 in order that the
PIN, for example, may be used to validate the player's identity. In
other cases, the PIN may be used to access some features of the
gaming machine 304 or other components in the system 100 shown in
FIG. 1. Either the casino server 108 or the communications
interface 340 may validate the player.
[0059] The communications interface 340 gains access to the
player's information 346 at the casino server 108. As mentioned
above, the player information 346 typically includes the number of
player points (loyalty points) previously accumulated by the
player, as well as additional statistics. In order for the gaming
activity at a particular gaming machine 304 to be credited to the
player's information 346, the player or player information 346 is
identified at the gaming machine 304. Identification is typically
accomplished by the player inserting his or her player card.
[0060] A PIN alone without a player card may be used to provide
player identity data to the gaming machine 304, and a card alone
without a PIN may be used to provide player identity data to the
gaming machine 304. Alternatively, any of several biometric devices
may be used to identify the player, including devices to check
fingerprints, scan facial appearance, provide eye scans, etc. Such
biometric input data may be used alone or in combination with
player cards or PINs.
[0061] During game play, the CPU 334 tracks gaming activity and
provides gaming activity information to the communications
interface 340 that is stored as player information 346. Such gaming
activity information may include an amount of money a player has
wagered on each game, a number of games played, a time each game
was initiated and a particular identification of a gaming machine
304, etc. For example, a system may track money wagered, money won,
and the time period tracked. Tracked information may be obtained by
the communications interface 340 polling the CPU 334. In an
alternative embodiment, the game activity information saved may be
sent to the casino server 108 by the communications interface 340.
The casino server 108 typically utilizes the game activity
information to perform accounting functions and additionally
generates player points that are added to the player's information
346. Awards are provided by the casino 102 in accordance with
points accumulated by the player.
[0062] As with all electronic communications in this description,
the communication between the communications interface 340, the
casino server 108 and the CPU 334 may take on different forms and
protocols, as for example, serial, parallel, Ethernet, etc. In one
embodiment, the communications interface 340 may be connected to
the CPU 334 through a serial connection and communicates in
accordance with a particular communication protocol or protocols
depending upon the manufacturer of the particular gaming machine
304.
[0063] The card reader 348 may be housed in a gaming machine 304,
and in one embodiment is positioned relative to a card slot to
receive a player card. The player card is inserted into the card
reader 348 and data read from the card stripe is transferred to the
communications interface 340 and stored in memory 341 located in
the communications interface 340.
[0064] A bill validator 352 may be housed in a gaming machine 304
and positioned to receive currency bills inserted into the
validator 352 by a player. The bill validator 352, which may
receive several bill denominations, detects the denomination of an
inserted bill and generates a signal 358 to the CPU 334. The bill
validator 352 may also receive encoded vouchers or tickets and
responsively generate a proper bill validator signal 358 relating
to ticket insertion.
[0065] The CPU 334, for example, responds to the bill validator
signal 358 by increasing the value on a game credit meter 332.
Depending on the type of gaming machine, a value on the credit
meter 332 may be displayed on the display 338. The credit meter 332
provides a visual indication to a player of a number of game
credits available for play. In an embodiment, the bill validation
signal 332 may be sent to the communications interface 340, which
in turn communicates with the CPU 334 to change the credit meter
332. Communication with the CPU 334 through the communications
interface 340 to change the credit meter 332 may occur when a bill
validator 352 is retrofitted into a gaming machine 304 that was
originally manufactured without a bill validator 352. The CPU 334
increases the credit meter 332 after a ticket signal 358 is
received and the value is determined.
[0066] A coin validator 354 may be housed in a gaming machine 304,
and positioned to receive coins that are inserted by a player into
the coin validator 354. The coin validator 354 generates a coin
signal 356 to the CPU 334. The CPU 334, for example, responds by
increasing the value on the credit meter 332.
[0067] In accordance with a configuration of a gaming machine 304,
the gaming machine 304 is enabled to play a game (for example, the
reels spin) after the credits appear on the credit meter 332. After
inserting money, a credit voucher or otherwise loading credits to
the gaming machine 304, the game may be started after the player
presses a button (not shown) or pulls a handle (not shown).
[0068] When the game ends and a particular result may be shown on
the display 338. The gaming machine 304 pays out a certain amount
depending upon the result in a conventional manner. The pay out may
include applying an amount directly to the credit meter 332, or
paying the amount in coins or tokens directly from the gaming
machine 304 to the player via a game machine tray (not shown), or,
where the amount is above a threshold level, a hand pay is made of
the amount to the player. The player may cash-out credits by
activating a cash-out button (not shown) or uploading credits to
the player's information 346 stored in the casino player points
database 442. A ticket printer (not shown) may be used to dispense
bar coded vouchers on cash-out, as well.
[0069] If a player desires to discontinue play or move to a
different gaming machine 304, the player removes the player card.
Thereafter, the player card may be inserted into the same or a
different gaming machine 304 for continuing play.
[0070] In one embodiment, the player's information 346 may be
formed of multiple accounts, for example, CASH account, a POINTS
account, a PROMO account, etc. Credit may be placed in the player's
PROMO account by the casino 102 as a complimentary incentive. This
may happen when a player first arrives at the casino at hotel
check-in or other event. Alternatively, credit may be applied to
the player's CASH account in accordance with the player making a
deposit of money, either coins or tokens directly into a gaming
machine 304, a kiosk 106, or at a cashier. Such credits (or value)
may be downloaded to the gaming machine 304 and placed on a credit
meter 332.
[0071] In some embodiments, the player's gaming activity may be
tracked by the casino server 108 once the player ID data is
established, the player has been issued a player tracking card
bearing a unique identification number and the player information
346 is stored in a file in the casino player points database 442,
for example. The player's transactions at a gaming machine 304 may
be logged by the communications interface 340 and reported to the
casino server 108.
[0072] In some situations, multiple player cards may be issued for
a single player information record 346; each card identifies the
same player information 346. Alternatively, the multiple player
cards may be linked with an individual record in the player points
field 898 of the player record 880 representing an account. Each
card may carry the same player identification number 882 that may
be stored in both the player information 346 and the player record
880.
[0073] For example, a husband and wife may share a single account
stored in the player points field 898 of the player information 346
stored in a casino player points database 442 on a casino server
408. By way of explanation, a player points database 642 is
depicted in FIG. 6 and may be similar to the casino player points
database 442. In one embodiment the casino player points database
442 stored on the casino server 108 contains less information than
the player points database 642 stored on the showcase server
112.
[0074] In one embodiment, the first card inserted may allow the
player to retrieve any or all of the credit stored in the player's
record 880. The second card inserted may allow the second player to
retrieve any remaining credit that remains stored in the record
880. Where both cards are simultaneously used on separate gaming
machines, all player transaction activity is collected and
forwarded to the player's record 880.
[0075] The CPU 334 keeps casino information 345 that logs
transaction and machine data. An account meter 336 may be formed of
electronic memory managed by the CPU 334 and/or hard meters. The
CPU 334 responds to various gaming machine events and updates an
accounting meter 336 accordingly. The accounting meters 336 may be
non-reset, accumulative meters; however, some meters 336 may be
reset meters and statistics are available since the last reset of
the meters. Basic events in which the CPU 334 adjusts the meters
336 may include:
[0076] (1) money input by the player;
[0077] (2) wagers placed by the player;
[0078] (3) game wins from play of the game; and
[0079] (4) cash out of credits by the player.
[0080] Typically, only the particular meter(s) 336 to which an
event pertains are adjusted upon the occurrence of the event. Data
identifying the occurrence of events may also be recorded,
including the time of the event and the particular type of
event.
[0081] For example, meters 336 may include various drop meters to
track money flow. A drop meter may be provided for each of the
different forms of monetary value accepted by the gaming machine
304. For example, a coin drop meter may represent the total value
of the coins that fall to a "drop bucket" within the gaming machine
housing for later collection by the casino. Also, coins may instead
be diverted to a hopper system for later payout to the player and
such diverted coins may be metered separately. Also, a bill count
drop meter may count all paper currency that has been inserted into
the bill validator 352. As another example, promo count meters
count promotional credits that are received by the gaming machine
304 from bar coded coupons, downloaded credits, bonus point
conversions, and the like. Outflow of cash to the player may also
be tracked by meters 336, including printed vouchers that have been
issued by the gaming machine 304.
[0082] The accounting meters 336 may also keep track of game
activity and include a game play meter for tracking the total
number of bets actually wagered and a game win meter for tracking
the total number of wins. Purchased credits that are not wagered,
but cashed out, may be tracked as well. The credit meter 332 is a
visual meter that reflects the total amount of credit available to
the player at any time, and may be driven from another meter
336.
[0083] The CPU 334 communicates data to the communications
interface 340 including events and readings of the accounting
meters 336. For example, the communications interface 340 may poll
the CPU 334 for data, and then record such data in memory 341. The
data may be further processed by the communications interface 340,
and then the processed data is stored in memory 341. Particular
data stored in memory 341 may include casino information 345 as
well as player information 346 that is used to award player
points.
[0084] The communications interface 340 performs game accounting
functions by updating the casino information 345 and player
information 346. The communications interface 340 transmits the
casino information 345 and player information 346 to the casino
server 108. In addition, the casino information 345 and player
information 346 may be initialized by the casino server 108.
[0085] Identification of a player may be performed by a magnetic
card reader, an optical card reader, a card swipe reader, a card
insertion reader, a smart card reader, or other device which alerts
the communications interface 340 by providing the communications
interface 340 with the player's identification data who is about to
activate play on the gaming machine 304. Devices other than a card
reader 348 may be used to provide identification data, such as a
biometric sensor, a fingerprint sensor, a palm sensor, a hand
sensor, an eye sensor, an iris sensor, a visual recognition system,
an audio or voice recognition system. An identification device
provides player identity data to the communications interface 340
at the time that the player is about to commence play. Player
identity data may be transferred by radio waves or infrared
radiation, for example, from a portable or handheld device. Card
removal may be determined in a number of ways, including sensors
such as audio, visual, thermal, motion, infra-red, magnetic, light
detectors, etc.
[0086] In an embodiment, the communications interface 340 includes
a user interface, such as a TFT (Thin Film Transistor) Active
Matrix LCD interface (with optional touch screen), to provide
static pictures and dynamic video clips with vivid color. The LCD
display with touch screen may be used to enter information, such as
player identification data or game play options. The communications
interface 340 may also include an additional LCD character/VFD
(Vacuum Fluorescent Display) graphic display interface. In
addition, a Video Input Port (VIP) may be incorporated in the
communications interface 340 to provide real-time videos or provide
streaming videos. The communications interface 340 may also include
an audio system or a personal computer sound system. In addition,
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology may be used by the
communications interface 340 to manage the delivery of voice
information using Internet Protocol.
[0087] The communications interface 340 provides a plurality of
interfaces for communication from and/or to peripheral devices or
gaming machine components. For example, a communications interface
340 may include a keyboard and/or mouse interface, a keypad
interface, a progressive interface, a fiber-optical interface, a
lockout interface, a magnetic/optical card reader interface, a Slot
Data System (SDS)/IGT pulse interface, a slot accounting software
(SAS)/GDAP interface, peripheral component interconnect
(Pcommunications interface) bus connection serial port, parallel
port, infrared port, universal serial bus (USB) connection, an
opto-isolated input, an opto-isolated output, and/or other
interface.
[0088] FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a casino gaming network 402.
Each casino gaming network 402 may include several gaming machines
404 ("games"), such as gaming machines 404a and 404b, used as slot
machines, video poker machines, video roulette machines, and the
like. In this embodiment, gaming machines 404a and 404b are
organized by dividing games 404a and 404b into groups.
Alternatively, the gaming machines 404 may include various
non-machine games, such as craps and blackjack. Non-machine data
may be input by employees at the non-machine game area. Gaming
machines 404 may receive non-machine and machine input data and
generate output data over a network 410a.
[0089] As shown in FIG. 4, a redemption kiosk 406 is in electronic
communication with the casino server 408. A player may use a kiosk
406 to view his or her player information 346 including a display
of the bonus awards won from the tiered reward promotion.
Redemption kiosks 406 may include an interactive communication unit
similar to gaming machine 404. The player may enter alphabetic and
numeric information by touching a display. A keypad may also be
used to enter information. A kiosk 406 may include a CPU and
memory, in order to provide interactive prompts to the player to
display to the player data regarding the player's information 346,
as well as to provide for redemption of the awards won by the
player from the tiered reward promotion. Such redemption may occur,
for example, through printing of vouchers at a kiosk 406, sending
electronic reservation and comp confirmation messages to hotel
restaurants, dispensing actual prizes at the kiosk 406, selecting
and issuing an order to redeem a good/service from the showcase
server 412 and the like.
[0090] A casino server 408 stores the input player information 346
for gaming machines 404 and output player information 346 from
gaming machines 404 in a casino player points database 442. The
casino server 408 also stores casino information 445 obtained from
gaming machines 304 and/or meters 336 that the casino may use in
managing its operations. The casino server 408 executes a poller
algorithm 450, which may poll the gaming machines 404 to obtain
player information 346 and casino information 345. The casino
server 408 communicates through the poller 450 with the gaming
machines 404. The poller 450 transfers data between the gaming
machines 404 and a casino player points database 442. On occasion,
one of the gaming machines 404 may require data stored in the
casino player points database 442. The needed data may be sent to
the gaming machine 404 from the casino server 408. As explained
above, the casino player points database 442 stored on the casino
server 408 may contain more or less information than a player
points database 642 stored on the showcase server 112.
[0091] In one embodiment, support systems are in electronic
communication with the casino server 408. The support systems may
include a ticketing workstation 444, an administration workstation
446, and/or an accounting workstation 448. The accounting
workstation 448, for example, may store gaming audit report
generating software that generates gaming audit reports from gaming
transaction data formatted in an audit format and input into the
casino information 345 for use in managing the casino
generally.
[0092] FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating multiple casinos
sharing a common server 508. In the embodiment of FIG. 5, partner
casino gaming networks A 502a and B 502b interface with a commonly
owned showcase server 508. The commonly owned or operated showcase
server 508 is in electronic communication with one or more
distribution facilities 514. Players at any partner casino may
access the server 508 in the manner described herein.
[0093] FIG. 6 is a block diagram of the showcase server 612. The
showcase server 612 operates to allow a gaming customer to log into
the system, perform various operations relating to their account
and also order goods and/or services based on the points in their
player record 880 obtained from the player points database 642.
[0094] The showcase server 612 includes authentication and security
660 for authenticating the player and also for providing security
for the communications. The authentication component 660 may access
information in the player points database 642 to use in ensuring
that only the player is accessing his or her account. Various kinds
of security may be used with the electronic communication to
protect the information being transmitted.
[0095] The showcase server 612 includes a showcase component 662
for allowing the gaming customer to preview and browse various
goods and services. The showcase component 662 accesses a database
of goods and services 668 for the information to be presented to
the gaming customer. The database of goods and services 668 will be
more fully discussed in relation to FIG. 9. The showcase component
662 presents the information to a remote gaming customer.
[0096] The ordering component 664 operates to place the order, once
a gaming customer has decided on one or more items to order. The
ordering component 664 may receive the item(s) selected from the
showcase component 662. The ordering component 664 may be in
electronic communication with the player points database 642 in
order to adjust the player's points after a purchase or order. The
player points database 642 will be more fully discussed in relation
to FIG. 8.
[0097] The showcase server 612 may be configured to permit a player
to augment points with cash, credit, etc., for a purchase. For
example, if the player did not have enough points to purchase a
particular product, the showcase server 612 may allow the player to
pay cash, credit, etc., to make up the difference between the
purchase price and that points he or she had.
[0098] Participating casino information 670 may be included to
store information specific to each casino that is participating in
the system 100 of FIG. 1. The participating casino information 670
will be more fully discussed below in relation to FIG. 10.
[0099] The synchronizing component 666 operates to update the
various databases 668, 642 in the showcase server 612 based upon
data received from the distribution facilities 114 and casino
gaming networks 102. For example, when a player earns additional
points, this change would be updated from the casino player points
database 442 to the showcase server's player points database 642.
In addition, after a gaming customer has ordered an item, the
points used to order the item would need to be subtracted from his
or her total points. Similarly, the other pieces of data in the
various databases would also need to be synchronized so that they
are updated and correct.
[0100] FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating multiple player
points databases 742 and multiple goods/services databases 768
being used in the showcase server 112. It is possible that more
than one player points database 742 may be utilized. For example,
one casino or group of casinos may have one player points database
742, while another casino or group of casinos may have their own
player points database 742. In such a situation, the showcase
server may have multiple player points databases 742. By way of
clarification, as discussed in FIG. 4, a casino player points
database 442 stored on a casino server 408 may have more or less
information than either a single or multiple player points database
742, or may conceivably have identical information.
[0101] Further, it is also possible that more than one
goods/services database 768 may be utilized. For example, the
showcase server 112 may use several distribution facilities 114,
each of which may have its own set of goods/services that are
offered. In such a situation the showcase server 112 may need to
include multiple goods/services databases 768.
[0102] The participating casino information 770 may be used to
identify the casinos that use a particular player points database
742. Similarly, the participating casino information 770 may also
be used to identify the casinos that use a particular
goods/services database 768.
[0103] FIG. 8 is a block diagram of an embodiment of a player
record 880 stored in a player points database 642. The player
record 880 may use the player ID field 882 as its primary key. Each
player ID 882 may have a corresponding player address 884, age 886,
and gender 888 field or other fields the participating casinos want
stored.
[0104] The gaming history 890 field relates to data obtained from
the various gaming machines 104 used by this particular player. The
gaming history data may include the player's winning percentage
broken down from the overall percentage down to as small as the
winning percentage for a single gaming machine 104. Alternatively,
the winning percentage may be broken down by game type, ranges of
time, lengths of time, and the like. Data such as amounts wagered,
number of wagers placed, average wager amounts, and the like may be
similarly broken down.
[0105] The particular player's cash purchasing history 892 may be
stored and might include purchases at casino facilities such as
hotel, restaurant, or gift shop purchases. The points purchasing
history 894 may include information regarding products and services
purchased through the showcase server 112 by the player. The
player's associations with the participating casinos may be stored
in the casino ID field 896. The casino ID 896 may be used to
determine casino cost ratios for points purchases using points from
multiple participating casinos. The player points field 898
contains player point totals for each casino and is updated by the
various casino servers 108 and the showcase server 112 based on
player points debits and credits. A player's association with
various groups, such as a group of friends who has opted to
aggregate all winnings into one pool or a husband and wife, may be
stored in the group ID field 899.
[0106] An embodiment of a product record 900 is depicted in FIG. 9.
The product ID field 952 may be used as the primary key for each
product record 900. The manufacturer ID field 954 stores a key for
the related product manufacturer. The manufacturer ID 954 may be
linked to a separate manufacturer database (not shown) that stores
all information relating to each manufacturer. For ordering
purposes, the manufacturer's part number 956 is stored in the
product record 900 to facilitate ordering of a desired product.
Similarly, the distributor information is stored in the distributor
field 958. Price information for the product record is stored in
the player points price 960, casino cost 962, and tax information
964 fields. The tax information field 964 may vary based on the
manufacturer or distributor's state of origin.
[0107] Promotional pricing for various products and services may be
obtained from the game link 966 and casino link 968 fields. For
example, if a player plays for a certain amount of time at a
specified casino, the player would be eligible for special pricing
on that casino's beverages. Alternatively, if a casino were
promoting a version of video poker, for each point earned playing
that game, the game link field 966 would proportionally increase
the points earned. The stock levels 970 and scheduling information
972 fields are used for inventory tracking purposes for goods and
services respectively. For example, if the product ID 952 indicated
a good, the stock level 970 value would be used and the scheduling
information field 972 would be empty. Alternatively, if the product
ID 952 indicated a service, such as a show, the scheduling
information field 972 would contain various show times, while the
stock level field 970 would be empty.
[0108] Participating casino information 670 is stored in casino
records 1000, as shown, by way of example, in FIG. 10. The primary
key for each casino record 1000 may be stored in the casino ID
field 1002. Similar to the manufacturer ID 954 of FIG. 9, a
separate casino information database may store the information
contained in the casino name 1004, casino address 1006, and casino
phone 1008 fields. For ease of discussion, and by way of example,
these fields remain in FIG. 10. The casino name 1004, casino
address 1006, and casino phone 1008 fields each store their
respective casino information.
[0109] In one embodiment, the security codes field 1010 stores
encryption data required to access a participating casino's gaming
network 102 or to allow a participating casino access to the
showcase database 112. For example, the security codes field 1010
may include a casino's public key for access to their gaming
network 102.
[0110] In this embodiment, the associated player database field
1012 references the participating casino's player points database
442. The associated player database field 1012 directs the showcase
database 112 to the participating casino's appropriate player
points database 442. The associated goods/services field 1014
contains information about which products may be purchased using
points from a specified casino. For example, one casino may have a
licensing agreement with a certain distributor that no other
participating casino has negotiated, such that only that licensed
casino will have data reflecting the license and authorizing
purchases from this distributor in the associated goods/services
field 1014. Finally, each casino may choose to utilize different
games on their floor. The types of games used by each casino as
well as their corresponding version numbers may be stored in the
games field 1016.
[0111] FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating the major hardware
components typically utilized in a computing device or computer
system 1101. Relating to the present systems and methods, the block
diagram of FIG. 11 illustrates the major hardware components that
may be used in implementing a casino server, a home PC, a mobile
device, a gaming machine, and/or a kiosk. Such devices typically
are forms of a computing device, and, as a result, this general
block diagram may be applicable to such devices. The illustrated
components may be located within the same physical structure or in
separate housings or structures.
[0112] The computer system 1101 includes a processor 1103 and
memory 1105. The processor 1103 controls the operation of the
computer system 1101 and may be embodied as a microprocessor, a
microcontroller, a digital signal processor (DSP) or other device
known in the art. The processor 1103 typically performs logical and
arithmetic operations based on program instructions stored within
the memory 1105.
[0113] As used herein, the term memory 1105 is broadly defined as
any electronic component capable of storing electronic information,
and may be embodied as read only memory (ROM), random access memory
(RAM), magnetic disk storage media, optical storage media, flash
memory devices in RAM, on-board memory included with the processor
1103, EPROM memory, EEPROM memory, registers, etc. The memory 1105
typically stores program instructions and other types of data. The
program instructions may be executed by the processor 1103 to
implement some or all of the methods disclosed herein.
[0114] The computer system 1101 typically also includes one or more
communication interfaces 1107 for communicating with other
electronic devices. The communication interfaces 1107 may be based
on wired communication technology, wireless communication
technology, or both. Examples of different types of communication
interfaces 1107 include a serial port, a parallel port, a Universal
Serial Bus (USB), an Ethernet adapter, an IEEE 1394 bus interface,
a small computer system interface (SCSI) bus interface, an infrared
(IR) communication port, a Bluetooth wireless communication
adapter, and so forth.
[0115] The computer system 1101 typically also includes one or more
input devices 1109 and one or more output devices 1111. Examples of
different kinds of input devices 1109 include a keyboard, mouse,
microphone, remote control device, button, joystick, trackball,
touchpad, lightpen, etc. Examples of different kinds of output
devices 1111 include a speaker, printer, etc. One specific type of
output device which is typically included in a computer system is a
display device 1113. Display devices 1113 used with embodiments
disclosed herein may utilize any suitable image projection
technology, such as a cathode ray tube (CRT), liquid crystal
display (LCD), light-emitting diode (LED), gas plasma,
electroluminescence, or the like. A display controller 1115 may
also be provided, for converting data stored in the memory 1105
into text, graphics, and/or moving images (as appropriate) shown on
the display device 1113.
[0116] Of course, FIG. 11 illustrates only one possible
configuration of a computer system 1101. Various other
architectures and components may be utilized.
[0117] FIG. 12 is a flow diagram 1200 of an embodiment of a method
of operation for a showcase server. The showcase server 112
receives 1202 a request from a player to use the system. The server
then authenticates 1204 the player. Various means may be used to
authenticate 1204 the player. For example, the player may log into
the system using a username and password, a card number, a PIN,
etc. Biometric information may also be used.
[0118] The server then provides 1206 the player with account
information. Account information may include, but is not limited
to, an account balance, any groups that the player is a member of,
identification information, etc. The server may also provide
additional functionality with respect to a player's account.
Specifically, the server may enable the player to perform various
actions on or with his or her points. Examples of such actions are
more fully discussed below in relation to FIG. 14.
[0119] The server then provides 1208 the player with goods/services
information. This allows the player to review the various
goods/services that are available, the cost in points per item,
whether the item is still available (in inventory), any gaming
machine 104 specific offers, any casino specific offers, etc. The
system may indicate those goods that the player can buy with points
alone or within a cash supplement limit, if there is a cash
supplement limit. The system may display goods segregated by point
levels so players can target goods and play enough to get the
points. Showcases may display current available level as well as
one or two levels above that to encourage the player.
[0120] The server enables 1210 the player to order one or more
items in exchange for points. Of course, the server may perform a
check to ensure that the player has enough points to exchange for
the item. To supplement a purchase a player may use a credit card
or agree to deposit cash at the casino as the supplement. That is,
a player may make a purchase that requires a cash supplement. In
one embodiment, the system may hold the purchase for 48 hours so
the player may go to the casino and deposit cash at a cashier,
gaming machine or kiosk to complete the purchase. Preferably, the
amount of "cash supplement" is controlled to prevent simply
shopping on the network, e.g. cash can only be a pre-selected
percentage of the purchase. Cash may be used by uploading cash
value from the gaming machine, at a kiosk, cashier.
[0121] The points used are then debited 1212 from the player's
account. The server issues or sends 1214 order fulfillment
instructions to the distribution facility.
[0122] FIG. 13 is a flow diagram 1300 of an embodiment of a method
of operation for a distribution facility. The distribution facility
114 updates 1302 the current status of its inventory so that gaming
customers may be aware of whether the item is currently available
or not. This information about the current status of its inventory
may also be communicated to the showcase server 612, via the
network 610c and the synchronizing component 666, to update the
goods/services database at the showcase server 612.
[0123] After the showcase server 612 updates 1302 the distribution
facility's 114 status of the inventory, the showcase server 612
sends 1304 fulfillment instructions. When the distribution facility
receives 1304 the fulfillment instructions, it ships 1306 the item
to the appropriate address. A player, when placing the order, may
select an address from that is already stored in the player points
database 642, or her or she may enter a new destination address at
the time of ordering.
[0124] The distribution facility may send 1308 an invoice to the
point-originating casino for payment. If the player has
consolidated points with various casinos, multiple invoices may be
sent 1308 dividing the cost, for example, based on the ratio of
points at each casino. Alternatively, the distribution facility may
send 1308 the invoice to the owner or operator of the showcase
server 612 for payment.
[0125] FIG. 14 is a flow diagram 1400 of an embodiment of a method
for a gaming customer to obtain goods/services through the use of
the present system. The player accesses and logs 1402 into the
showcase server 612. The players may identify themselves to the
system 100 via a card number, PIN or other secure means. Biometric
information may be used.
[0126] The showcase server 612 then displays the player points and
any player record data 880 or player information 346 to the player
for review 1404. In certain embodiments, this information may be
configured such that the first screen shown to the user is
customized by the player. From this point the player may perform
various operations with his or her account. Various kinds of user
interfaces may be used through which the player may interact with
the casino server 108. For example, a menu-driven system may be
used. In addition, a web-based interface may be used. Other user
interfaces may also be used.
[0127] If the player wishes 1406 to perform group processing, the
showcase server 112 may display 1408 the current groups to which
the user belongs to the player. The server then processes 1410 any
group changes, such as adding a group, deleting a group, inviting
players to join a group, sending group messages, etc. If more group
processing 1406 needs to be performed, the process may cycle
through further group editing.
[0128] The player may wish 1412 to consolidate points. If the
player wishes to consolidate points 1412, the server may allow the
user to select 1414 the different accounts or sets of points to
consolidate and then consolidate. If more consolidation processing
1412 needs to be performed, the process may cycle through for
further consolidation editing.
[0129] Furthermore, the player may wish 1416 to transfer points. If
the player wishes to transfer points, the server may allow the user
to select 1418 the different accounts or players to transfer points
to or from. Then the player may enter 1420 the amount of points to
transfer after which the points may be transferred. If more
transfers 1416 need to be performed, the process may cycle through
for further transfers as shown.
[0130] As discussed above, the player may also wish 1422 to redeem
points for goods and/or services. An embodiment of a method for
redeeming 1424 points for goods/services is shown above with
respect to FIG. 12.
[0131] Another feature that may be provided to the player is the
ability to configure a registry 1426. For example, the player may
use the present system to configure registry 1426 for gifts, a
wedding registry, etc. The player may view 1428 various goods and
services and then select 1430 the goods and/or services with which
he or she would like to register. If the player would like to
register for more items, the process may be repeated, as shown.
[0132] This example is only one possible example of a navigational
flow for the player's user interface. As mentioned above, various
kinds of user interfaces may be used to allow the player to
interact with showcase server.
[0133] Information and signals may be represented using any of a
variety of different technologies and techniques. For example,
data, instructions, commands, information, signals, bits, symbols,
and chips that may be referenced throughout the above description
may be represented by voltages, currents, electromagnetic waves,
magnetic fields or particles, optical fields or particles, or any
combination thereof.
[0134] The various illustrative logical blocks, modules, circuits,
and algorithm steps described in connection with the embodiments
disclosed herein may be implemented as electronic hardware,
computer software, or combinations of both. To clearly illustrate
this interchangeability of hardware and software, various
illustrative components, blocks, modules, circuits, and steps have
been described above generally in terms of their functionality.
Whether such functionality is implemented as hardware or software
depends upon the particular application and design constraints
imposed on the overall system. Skilled artisans may implement the
described functionality in varying ways for each particular
application, but such implementation decisions should not be
interpreted as causing a departure from the scope of the present
invention.
[0135] The various illustrative logical blocks, modules, and
circuits described in connection with the embodiments disclosed
herein may be implemented or performed with a general purpose
processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application
specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array
signal (FPGA) or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or
transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination
thereof designed to perform the functions described herein. A
general purpose processor may be a microprocessor, but in the
alternative, the processor may be any conventional processor,
controller, microcontroller, or state machine. A processor may also
be implemented as a combination of computing devices, e.g., a
combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, a plurality of
microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in conjunction with a
DSP core, or any other such configuration.
[0136] The steps of a method or algorithm described in connection
with the embodiments disclosed herein may be embodied directly in
hardware, in a software module executed by a processor, or in a
combination of the two. A software module may reside in RAM memory,
flash memory, ROM memory, EPROM memory, EEPROM memory, registers,
hard disk, a removable disk, a CD-ROM, or any other form of storage
medium known in the art. An exemplary storage medium is coupled to
the processor such the processor can read information from, and
write information to, the storage medium. In the alternative, the
storage medium may be integral to the processor. The processor and
the storage medium may reside in an ASIC. The ASIC may reside in a
user terminal. In the alternative, the processor and the storage
medium may reside as discrete components in a user terminal.
[0137] The methods disclosed herein comprise one or more steps or
actions for achieving the described method. The method steps and/or
actions may be interchanged with one another without departing from
the scope of the present invention. In other words, unless a
specific order of steps or actions is required for proper operation
of the embodiment, the order and/or use of specific steps and/or
actions may be modified without departing from the scope of the
present invention.
[0138] While specific embodiments and applications of the present
invention have been illustrated and described, it is to be
understood that the invention is not limited to the precise
configuration and components disclosed herein. Various
modifications, changes, and variations which will be apparent to
those skilled in the art may be made in the arrangement, operation,
and details of the methods and systems of the present invention
disclosed herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the
invention.
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