U.S. patent application number 13/229278 was filed with the patent office on 2013-03-14 for electronic funds transfer-in transfer-out for electronic game machines.
This patent application is currently assigned to MULTIMEDIA GAMES, INC.. The applicant listed for this patent is James Michael Dominello, Darren Michael Schueller, Rodney Lynn Willyard. Invention is credited to James Michael Dominello, Darren Michael Schueller, Rodney Lynn Willyard.
Application Number | 20130065666 13/229278 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 47830329 |
Filed Date | 2013-03-14 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130065666 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Schueller; Darren Michael ;
et al. |
March 14, 2013 |
ELECTRONIC FUNDS TRANSFER-IN TRANSFER-OUT FOR ELECTRONIC GAME
MACHINES
Abstract
A device for providing electronic funds transfer-in and
transfer-out transactions in a casino gaming system includes a
processor, a memory coupled to the processor, a wagering
transaction application stored in the memory and executed on the
processor, and an electronic receiver communicatively coupled to
the wagering transaction application. The wagering transaction
application is configured to, through the electronic receiver,
access a identifier from an electronic device, determine whether
the identifier accurately represents the account, conduct a
wagering transaction on the available funds for wagering, and
update the available funds for wagering in the account. The
electronic device is configured to represent an account of
available funds for wagering. The identifier is based on at least
the account and the electronic device.
Inventors: |
Schueller; Darren Michael;
(Austin, TX) ; Willyard; Rodney Lynn; (Austin,
TX) ; Dominello; James Michael; (Austin, TX) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Schueller; Darren Michael
Willyard; Rodney Lynn
Dominello; James Michael |
Austin
Austin
Austin |
TX
TX
TX |
US
US
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
MULTIMEDIA GAMES, INC.
Austin
TX
|
Family ID: |
47830329 |
Appl. No.: |
13/229278 |
Filed: |
September 9, 2011 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
463/25 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06Q 20/3278 20130101;
G06Q 20/3274 20130101; G07F 17/3244 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
463/25 |
International
Class: |
A63F 9/24 20060101
A63F009/24 |
Claims
1. A device for providing electronic funds transfer-in and
transfer-out transactions in a casino gaming system, comprising: a
processor; a memory coupled to the processor; a wagering
transaction application stored in the memory and executed on the
processor; an electronic receiver communicatively coupled to the
wagering transaction application; wherein the wagering transaction
application is configured to: through the electronic receiver,
access a first identifier from an electronic device, the electronic
device configured to represent an account of available funds for
wagering, the first identifier based on at least the account and
the electronic device; determine whether the first identifier
accurately represents the account; conduct a wagering transaction
on the available funds for wagering; and update the available funds
for wagering in the account.
2. The device of claim 1, further comprising an electronic
transmitter, wherein the wagering transaction application is
further configured to: detect a command to terminate wagering
transactions associated with the account on the device; and through
the electronic transmitter, provide a confirmation to the
electronic device.
3. The device of claim 1, further comprising an electronic
transmitter, wherein the wagering transaction application is
further configured to: detect a command to terminate wagering
transactions associated with the account on the device; determine a
second identifier based on at least the account of available funds
for wagering and the electronic device; and through the electronic
transmitter, provide the second identifier to the electronic
device.
4. The device of claim 3, wherein the wagering transaction
application is further configured to: allow access to conduct a
wagering transaction if the first identifier accurately represents
the account; deny access to conduct a wagering transaction if the
identifier does not accurately represent the account; and deny
subsequent access to conduct a wagering transaction after detecting
the command to terminate wagering transactions.
5. The device of claim 1, wherein the wagering transaction includes
adding funds for wagering to the account.
6. The device of claim 1, wherein the wagering transaction includes
initiating wagering game play.
7. The device of claim 1, wherein the wagering transaction includes
adding or subtracting available funds for wagering based on the
outcome of wagering game play.
8. The device of claim 1, wherein: the electronic receiver is
configured to receive a signal from a near field communication chip
in the electronic device; and the first identifier is communicated
in the signal.
9. The device of claim 1, wherein: the electronic receiver is
configured to read a quick response code from the electronic
device; and the first identifier is communicated in the quick
response code.
10. The device of claim 9, wherein the electronic receiver
comprises a camera configured to read a visual display of the quick
response code from the electronic device.
11. The device of claim 1, further comprising an electronic
transmitter, wherein the wagering transaction application is
further configured to: detect a command to terminate wagering
transactions associated with the account on the device; determine a
second identifier based on at least the account of available funds
for wagering and the electronic device; and through the electronic
transmitter, provide the second identifier to the electronic
device.
12. The device of claim 1, wherein the first identifier is based at
least upon the available funds for wagering in the account.
13. The device of claim 1, wherein the wagering transaction
application is configured to: prompt a user for a security code;
detect an entered security code; allow the wagering transaction to
be conducted based upon the validity of the security code.
14. An article of manufacture, comprising: a computer readable
medium; and computer-executable instructions carried on the
computer readable medium, the instructions readable by a processor,
the instructions, when read and executed, for causing the processor
to: detect an access to a gaming device; through an electronic
receiver, access a first identifier from an electronic device, the
electronic device configured to represent an account of available
funds for wagering, the first identifier based on at least the
account and the electronic device; determine whether the first
identifier accurately represents the account; conduct a wagering
transaction on the available funds for wagering; and update the
available funds for wagering in the account.
15. The article of claim 14, wherein the processor is further
caused to: detect a command to terminate wagering transactions
associated with the account on the gaming device; and through an
electronic transmitter, provide a confirmation to the electronic
device.
16. The article of claim 14, wherein the processor is further
caused to: detect a command to terminate wagering transactions
associated with the account on the gaming device; determine a
second identifier based on at least the account of available funds
for wagering and the electronic device; and through an electronic
transmitter, provide the second identifier to the electronic
device.
17. The article of claim 16, wherein the processor is further
caused to: allow access to conduct a wagering transaction if the
first identifier accurately represents the account; deny access to
conduct a wagering transaction if the identifier does not
accurately represent the account; and deny subsequent access to
conduct a wagering transaction after detecting the command to
terminate wagering transactions.
18. The article of claim 14, wherein the wagering transaction
includes adding funds for wagering to the account.
19. The article of claim 14, wherein the wagering transaction
includes initiating wagering game play.
20. The article of claim 14, wherein the wagering transaction
includes adding or subtracting available funds for wagering based
on the outcome of wagering game play.
21. The article of claim 14, wherein: the processor is further
configured to receive, through the electronic receiver, a signal
from a near field communication chip in the electronic device; and
the first identifier is communicated in the signal.
22. The article of claim 11, wherein the first identifier is based
at least upon the available funds for wagering in the account.
23. The article of claim 11, wherein: the processor is further
configured to, through the electronic receiver, read a quick
response code from the electronic device; and the first identifier
is communicated in the quick response code.
24. The article of claim 23, wherein configuring the processor to
read the quick response code comprises configuring the processor to
read a visual display of the quick response code from the
electronic device.
25. The article of claim 14, further comprising an electronic
transmitter, wherein the processor is further configured to: detect
a command to terminate wagering transactions associated with the
account on the device; determine a second identifier based on at
least the account of available funds for wagering and the
electronic device; and through the electronic transmitter, provide
the second identifier to the electronic device.
26. The article of claim 14, wherein the processor is further
caused to: prompt a user for a security code; detect an entered
security code; allow the wagering transaction to be conducted based
upon the validity of the security code.
27. A method of conduct electronic transfer-in and transfer-out of
funds for wagering in a wagering gaming system, comprising:
detecting an access to a gaming device; through an electronic
receiver, accessing a first identifier from an electronic device,
the electronic device configured to represent an account of
available funds for wagering, the first identifier based on at
least the account and the electronic device; determining whether
the first identifier accurately represents the account; conducting
a wagering transaction on the available funds for wagering; and
updating the available funds for wagering in the account.
28. The method of claim 27, further comprising: detecting a command
to terminate wagering transactions associated with the account on
the gaming device; and through an electronic transmitter, providing
a confirmation to the electronic device.
29. The method of claim 27, further comprising: detecting a command
to terminate wagering transactions associated with the account on
the gaming device; determining a second identifier based on at
least the account of available funds for wagering and the
electronic device; and through an electronic transmitter, providing
the second identifier to the electronic device.
30. The method of claim 29, further comprising: allowing access to
conduct a wagering transaction if the first identifier accurately
represents the account; denying access to conduct a wagering
transaction if the identifier does not accurately represent the
account; and denying subsequent access to conduct a wagering
transaction after detecting the command to terminate wagering
transactions.
31. The method of claim 27, wherein the wagering transaction
includes adding funds for wagering to the account.
32. The method of claim 27, wherein the wagering transaction
includes initiating wagering game play.
33. The method of claim 27, wherein the wagering transaction
includes adding or subtracting available funds for wagering based
on the outcome of wagering game play.
34. The method of claim 27, further comprising receiving, through
the electronic receiver, a signal from a near field communication
chip in the electronic device, wherein the first identifier is
communicated in the signal.
35. The method of claim 27, wherein the first identifier is based
at least upon the available funds for wagering in the account.
36. The method of claim 27, further comprising, through the
electronic receiver, reading a quick response code from the
electronic device, wherein the first identifier is communicated in
the quick response code.
37. The method of claim 36, wherein reading the quick response code
includes reading a visual display of the quick response code from
the electronic device.
38. The method of claim 27, further comprising: detecting a command
to terminate wagering transactions associated with the account on
the device; determining a second identifier based on at least the
account of available funds for wagering and the electronic device;
and through an electronic transmitter, providing the second
identifier to the electronic device.
39. The method of claim 27, further comprising: prompting a user
for a security code; detecting an entered security code; allowing
the wagering transaction to be conducted based upon the validity of
the security code.
40. A method for casino wagering, including: at a first electronic
gaming machine ("EGM"): electronically receiving a first identifier
electronically stored on an electronic device of a user of the
first EGM, the first identifier associated with an account of funds
for wagering; verifying the validity of the first identifier;
accessing the account of available funds for wagering associated
with the first identifier; conducting one or more wagering games
with the available funds for wagering; detecting a command to
terminate wagering on the first EGM; assigning a second identifier
to the electronic device, the second identifier based on at least
the account of remaining funds for wagering after the wagering
games are conducted and the electronic device; and electronically
sending the second identifier to the electronic device; and at a
second EGM: electronically receiving the second identifier
electronically stored on the electronic device; verifying the
validity of the second identifier; accessing the available funds
for wagering of the account associated with the second identifier;
and conducting one or more wagering games with the available funds
for wagering.
41. A method for providing electronic funds transfer-in and
transfer-out transactions in a casino gaming system, comprising:
detecting, from a user, a deposit of wagering funds for wagering;
creating an account of available wagering funds based on the
deposit; determining an identifier based on at least the account of
available wagering funds; assigning the identifier to an electronic
device, the electronic device configured to electronically store
the identifier; dispensing the electronic device to the user; and:
at an electronic gaming machine: electronically receiving the
identifier electronically stored on the electronic device;
verifying the validity of the second identifier; accessing the
available funds for wagering of the account associated with the
second identifier; and conducting one or more wagering games with
the available funds for wagering.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates generally to gaming systems,
equipment, and methods used to provide wagering games, and, more
particularly, to electronic funds transfer-in transfer-out for
electronic game machines.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Gaming systems, machines, and methods used to provide
wagering games may be electronically or manually implemented by
instant lottery systems. An electronic implementation might be an
electronic gaming machine such as a "slot machine," "video lottery"
or "bingo" systems that show the result of a play on a video
display device at the player terminal. Other games may include
table games, such as "blackjack," "roulette" or "craps." A gaming
system may include a paper ticket generation mechanism for
dispensing vouchers for winnings or remaining balances, or a
mechanism for dispensing casino chips. For example, gaming
equipment might include a printer for printing the voucher showing
the player's balance or the dealer and dealer back for casino
chips. The player may redeem the voucher or the player may use the
ticket in another gaming terminal.
SUMMARY
[0003] In one embodiment, a device for providing electronic funds
transfer-in and transfer-out transactions in a casino gaming system
includes a processor, a memory coupled to the processor, a wagering
transaction application stored in the memory and executed on the
processor, and an electronic receiver communicatively coupled to
the wagering transaction application. The wagering transaction
application is configured to, through the electronic receiver,
access a identifier from an electronic device, determine whether
the identifier accurately represents the account, conduct a
wagering transaction on the available funds for wagering, and
update the available funds for wagering in the account. The
electronic device is configured to represent an account of
available funds for wagering. The identifier is based on at least
the account and the electronic device.
[0004] In another embodiment, an article of manufacture, includes a
computer readable medium and computer-executable instructions
carried on the computer readable medium. The instructions are
readable by a processor. The instructions, when read and executed,
cause the processor to detect an access to a gaming device, through
an electronic receiver, access a identifier from an electronic
device, determine whether the identifier accurately represents the
account, conduct a wagering transaction on the available funds for
wagering, and update the available funds for wagering in the
account. The electronic device is configured to represent an
account of available funds for wagering. The identifier is based on
at least the account and the electronic device.
[0005] In yet another embodiment, a method of conduct electronic
transfer-in and transfer-out of funds for wagering in a wagering
gaming system includes detecting an access to a gaming device,
through an electronic receiver, accessing a identifier from an
electronic device, determining whether the identifier accurately
represents the account, conducting a wagering transaction on the
available funds for wagering, and updating the available funds for
wagering in the account. The electronic device is configured to
represent an account of available funds for wagering. The
identifier is based on at least the account and the electronic
device.
[0006] In still yet another embodiment, a method for casino
wagering includes, at a first electronic gaming machine ("EGM"),
electronically receiving a first identifier electronically stored
on an electronic device of a user of the first EGM, verifying the
validity of the first identifier, accessing the account of
available funds for wagering associated with the first identifier,
conducting one or more wagering games with the available funds for
wagering; detecting a command to terminate wagering on the first
EGM, assigning a second identifier to the electronic device, and
electronically sending the second identifier to the electronic
device. The method includes, at a second EGM, electronically
receiving the second identifier electronically stored on the
electronic device, verifying the validity of the second identifier,
accessing the available funds for wagering of the account
associated with the second identifier, and conducting one or more
wagering games with the available funds for wagering. The first
identifier is associated with an account of funds for wagering. The
second identifier is based on at least the account of remaining
funds for wagering after the wagering games are conducted.
[0007] In an additional embodiment, a method for providing
electronic funds transfer-in and transfer-out transactions in a
casino gaming system, includes detecting, from a user, a deposit of
wagering funds for wagering, creating an account of available
wagering funds based on the deposit, determining an identifier
based on at least the account of available wagering funds,
assigning the identifier to an electronic device, dispensing the
electronic device to the user. The electronic device configured to
electronically store the identifier. The method includes, at an
electronic gaming machine, electronically receiving the identifier
electronically stored on the electronic device, verifying the
validity of the second identifier, accessing the available funds
for wagering of the account associated with the second identifier,
and conducting one or more wagering games with the available funds
for wagering.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] For a more complete understanding of the present invention
and its features and advantages, reference is now made to the
following description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying
drawings, in which:
[0009] FIG. 1 is an example embodiment of a system for electronic
funds transfer-in transfer-out ("eTITO") for electronic game
machines;
[0010] FIG. 2 is an illustration of an example eTITO device that
may be provided by user;
[0011] FIG. 3 is an illustration of an example eTITO device that
may be provided by an eTITO system;
[0012] FIG. 4 is a more detailed illustration of the interaction of
components of an example embodiment of an eTITO system;
[0013] FIG. 5 is an example embodiment of a method of initiating
eTITO transactions in a wagering system; and
[0014] FIG. 6 is an example illustration of a method of conducting
eTITO transactions in a wagering system.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0015] FIG. 1 is an example embodiment of a system 100 for
electronic funds transfer-in transfer-out ("eTITO") for electronic
game machines. System 100 may include various components for
accepting wagers, conducting games of skill and/or chance based on
the wagers, and paying winners of such games. Any suitable set of
such components may be used. For example, system 100 may include
electronic gaming machines ("EGM") 108, 110, casino kiosks 112,
and/or casino cashiers 114. Although labeled as a cashier, casino
cashier 114 may include a software module for conducting
transactions for a cashier as described herein. EGMs 108, 110,
casino kiosk 112, and casino cashier 114 may be communicatively
coupled to a server such as Slot Accounting System ("SAS") host
116. Each of SAS host 116, EGMs 108, 110, casino kiosk 112, and
casino cashier 114 may include modules, applications, libraries, or
logic resident on a memory for execution by a processor, configured
to conduct the operation of each such entity as described
herein.
[0016] A user 103 may access various portions of the system 100
configured for interaction with users, such as EGMs 108, 110,
casino kiosk 112, and casino cashier 114. User 103 may place
wagers, move from machine to machine, redeem balances, collect
prizes, or cash out. User 103 may use funding sources 104 to fund
wagers. Available funding sources 104 may depend upon statute.
Funding sources may include, for example, cash, a cash account,
credit or bank accounts. User 103 may use an eTITO device 106 to
keep track of the user's balances or wagers in system 100. In one
embodiment, user 103 may use an existing device already in the
possession of user 103 as an eTITO device 106. In another
embodiment, user 103 may be issued eTITO device 106 by the casino
or other entity providing system 100.
[0017] eTITO device 106 may include an electronic mechanism for
user 103 to deposit, move, remove, or otherwise access funds from
various devices of system 100, such as EGMs 108, 110, casino kiosk
112, or casino cashier 114. eTITO device 106 may include, for
example, a mobile device with a means of capturing and presenting
an identifier. Such a mobile device may include a tablet, mobile
phone, smart phone, or any other suitable electronic device. The
mobile device may include mechanisms for communicating with devices
of system 100, such as mechanisms for presentation and reading of a
quick response ("QR") code or bar code, a near-field communication
chip ("NFC"), radio-frequency identification ("RFID") tag, or
Bluetooth chip. Such mechanisms for communication may be able to
accept and store an identifier 107. In one embodiment, identifier
107 may be configured to be unique. In such an embodiment,
identifier 107 may be configured as a mechanism for preventing
access or redemption of funds associated with the identifier by any
other party or party other than the eTITO device 106.
[0018] EGMs 108, 110 may be configured to present a wagering game
to a user, such as user 103, who may play a game on EGM 108, 110
for a chance to win a prize based upon the wager and, for example,
a random event, a lottery drawing, a bingo game, or other
casino-based transaction. EGMs 108, 110 may be implemented in any
suitable manner according to the teachings of this disclosure. EGMs
108, 110 may be implemented, for example, in an electronic device
such as a traditional wagering game cabinet or arcade gaming
cabinet. EGMs 108, 110 may include a suitable display and I/O for
presenting the game to the user and for transferring funds in or
out of the device using eTITO. EGMs 108, 110 may be communicatively
coupled with each other and a gaming server to provide, for
example, a bingo game.
[0019] EGMs 108, 110 may be configured to accept a deposit of funds
from user 103 using funding sources 104 or eTITO device 106. Upon a
selected cash-out option, EGMs 108, 110 may be configured to issue
an eTITO identification 107 to user 103 on eTITO device 106. Such
an identification 107 may be issued using, for example, a bar code
or QR code display, an NFC chip transmitter/receiver, Bluetooth
transmitter/receiver, or an RFID transmitter/receiver. EGMs 108,
110 may be configured to accept an eTITO-based identification from
user 103 from eTITO device 106. Such acceptance may be made using,
for example, a bar code or QR code reader, NFC chip
transmitter/receiver, Bluetooth transmitter/receiver, or RFID
transmitter/receiver. Upon reception of information from eTITO
device 106, EGMs 108, 110 may be configured to query SAS host 116
to verify the eTITO device 106, and to make available for wagering
any funds associated with the eTITO device 106 and user 103. Upon
receipt of funding such as cash, EGMs 108, 110, may be configured
to query SAS host 116 for an eTITO identifier that may be sent to
eTITO device 106 upon cash-out. EGMs 108, 110 EGMs 108, 110 may be
configured to query SAS host 116 for such any such information
through a protocol such as advanced funds transfer ("AFT"). Thus, a
user may electronically deposit funds into EGMs 108, 110, and may
electronically withdraw funds from EGMs 108, 110.
[0020] Casino kiosk 112 may be configured to present various
self-serve funding and withdrawal options to users of system 100.
Casino kiosk may include bill accepters, displays, chip or code
readers and displays, eTITO device dispensers, or other input and
output devices. In some embodiments of system 100, use of certain
accounts in funding sources 104, issuance of eTITO devices 106, or
cash payouts of available balances may require user 103 to access
casino kiosk 112 or casino cashier 114, rather than an individual
EGM 108, 110. Casino kiosk 112 may be communicatively coupled to
electronic networks for accessing various accounts which user 103
may wish to include in funding sources 104. Casino kiosk 112 may be
configured to accept funding sources 104 such as cash, account
numbers, an e-Wallet scheme, or an eTITO-based identification 107
from eTITO device 106. In one embodiment, a user 103 may be able to
use the same mechanism to originally fund a wagering account in
system 100 as to transport an identifier from machine to machine in
system 100. For example, an eTITO device 106 configured with an
e-Wallet mechanism may use an NFC chip transmitter/receiver on a
mobile device to fund a wagering account at casino kiosk 112,
wherein such funds are deposited from user's 103 bank or credit
accounts. Subsequently, the user 103 may use the eTITO device 106
and associated NFC chip transmitter/receiver to receive and store
an identifier which identifies the user 103 as user 103 moves
between EGMs 108, 110, before cashing out. The user 103 may touch
the eTITO device 106 to each machine to access funds for wagering,
adding funds, or removing funds. The eTITO device 106 may contain
an identifier to identify the device, user, and/or account. Such an
identification may be read using, for example, a bar code or QR
code reader, NFC chip transmitter/receiver, Bluetooth
transmitter/receiver, or RFID transmitter/receiver. Casino kiosk
112 may be configured to accept an eTITO-based identification from
user 103 from eTITO device 106. Such acceptance may be made using,
for example, a bar code or QR code reader, NFC chip
transmitter/receiver, Bluetooth transmitter/receiver, or RFID
transmitter/receiver. Upon reception of information from eTITO
device 106, casino kiosk 112 may be configured to query SAS host
116 to verify the eTITO device 106, and to associate with the eTITO
device 106 any funds presented by the user 103.
[0021] If user 103 does not have an eTITO device 106, casino kiosk
112 may be configured to issue an eTITO device 106 to user 103
after funds have been made available for wagering in system 100.
Issuing such a device may be accomplished by, for example, a card
writer configured to issue an eTITO device with a unique identifier
electronically embedded and configured to share the identifier with
casino devices. Such an eTITO device may be embodied by, for
example, FIG. 3. Casino kiosk 112 may have one or more previously
coded eTITO devices, and may be configured query SAS host 114 to
notify which eTITO device identification will be associated with
the user 103. In one embodiment, casino kiosk 112 may be configured
to query SAS host 114 to determine an eTITO device identification
to issue to user 103.
[0022] Upon a deposit of funds, or issuance of an eTITO device 106,
casino kiosk 112 may be configured to issue an eTITO identification
107 to user 103 on eTITO device 106. Such an identification 107 may
be issued using, for example, a bar code or QR code display, an NFC
chip transmitter/receiver, Bluetooth transmitter/receiver, or an
RFID transmitter/receiver. Casino kiosk 112 may be configured to
query SAS host 116 for such an eTITO identifier. Casino kiosk 112
may be configured to query SAS host 116 for such any such
information through a protocol such as AFT.
[0023] Casino kiosk 112 may be configured to return funds deposited
in system 100 user 103. Such funds may reflect funds originally
deposited, wagering gains or losses, or other transactions
conducted by user 103 while using system 100. Casino kiosk 112 may
be configured to determine eTITO identification 107 from eTITO
device 106 and query SAS host 116 to verify the user and the
account balance. After verification, casino kiosk 112 may be
configured to return funds to user 103 in the manner selected by
user 103. For example, funds may be transferred to an account of
user 103. In another example, funds may be issued in the form of
cash.
[0024] Casino cashier 114 may include software, applications, or
modules configured to operate substantially similar to casino kiosk
112. Casino cashier 114 may include additional security, oversight,
or other protection mechanisms. Policies set for system 100 may
require some transactions to be handled by casino cashier 114
instead of casino kiosk 112. For example, cash payments may be
required to be issued from casino cashier 114.
[0025] SAS host 116 may be configured to facilitate eTITO
transactions between entities of system 100 in order to provide a
ticketless, voucherless gaming and wagering experience for a user
such as user 103. SAS host 116 may be communicatively coupled to
EGMs 108, 110, casino kiosk 112 and casino cashier 114. SAS host
116 may be communicatively coupled to various networks of funding
sources, such as credit or cash accounts. SAS host 116 may be
configured to access such funding sources upon request by a user
103 to fund an eTITO device for use in system 100.
[0026] SAS host 116 may be communicatively coupled to one or more
sources of information for tracking a funded account for
transferring funds between the elements of system 100. Such sources
of information may include, for example, an account database 118
and an eTITO identification database 120. Account database 118 and
an eTITO identification database 120 by any suitable number and
kind of mechanisms for storing information, such as a file, record,
data structure, or relational database. Account database 118 may
include information regarding wagering balances of various users
like user 103. The balances may reflect actions to fund or withdraw
money from system 100, or results such as winning or losing funds
in various EGMs 108, 110. eTITO identification database 118 may
include information about registered, issued, or methods for
determining unique identifiers for eTITO devices 106 associated
with system 100. Entries in account database 118 may be linked to
identifiers in eTITO identification database 120. SAS host 116 may
be configured to associate accounts in account database 118 with an
eTITO identifier in eTITO identification database 118, so that when
a user 103 presents a given eTITO identifier 107 as part of an
eTITO device 106 to an element of system 100, system 100 may
recognize the balance available to user 103. SAS host 116 may be
configured create or change such associations upon issuance of an
eTITO device 106 or an eTITO identifier 107, a funding transaction,
or a withdrawal transaction.
[0027] Each of EGMs 108, 110, casino kiosk 112, casino cashier 114,
and SAS house 116 may include a processor coupled to a memory. For
an example implementation, see processor 404 and memory 406 of FIG.
4, below. The processor in each device may be configured to execute
different logic or instructions stored in the associated memory to
perform one or more functions of the device as described herein.
The processors may comprise, for example a microprocessor,
microcontroller, digital signal processor (DSP), application
specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or any other digital or analog
circuitry configured to interpret and/or execute program
instructions and/or process data. In some embodiments, the
processors may interpret and/or execute program instructions and/or
process data stored in the memories. The memories may be configured
in part or whole as application memory, system memory, or both. The
memories may include any system, device, or apparatus configured to
hold and/or house one or more memory modules. Each memory module
may include any system, device or apparatus configured to retain
program instructions and/or data for a period of time (e.g.,
computer-readable media).
[0028] FIG. 2 is an illustration of an example eTITO device 202
that may be provided by user 103. eTITO device 202 may include, for
example, a mobile phone, tablet, smartphone, or any other suitable
electronic device. eTITO device 202 may include a processor and a
memory, and may be configured to execute a variety of applications.
eTITO device 202 may include any suitable mechanism for
communicating with system 100 to conduct eTITO transactions. For
example, eTITO device 202 may include camera 208, display 203,
and/or wireless chip 210. Wireless chip 210 may include, for
example, an NFC, RFID, or Bluetooth communications chip.
[0029] Given a funding transaction and access by eTITO device 202,
a dispensing unit such as units 108, 110, 112, 114 may be
configured to contact SAS host 116 to establish an account for the
funds and associate a unique eTITO identification with the account.
In one embodiment, the unique eTITO identification may be
temporarily assigned to the eTITO device 202, such as the case with
a QR code provided to and stored by eTITO device 202
electronically. In another embodiment, an eTITO identification may
be based on a persistent identifier originating on the eTITO device
202, such as one associated with a read-only NFC chip. Wireless
chip 210 may be configured to be a read/write chip or a read-only
chip. The association of funds, accounts, and eTITO identifiers may
be stored in databases 118, 120.
[0030] Identifier 206 may be received by eTITO device 202 from an
entity of system 100, such as EGMs 108, 110, casino kiosk 112, or
casino cashier 114. eTITO device 202 may be configured to receive
identifier 206 by, for example, reading a visual display using a
camera 208. Identifier 206 may be received by other mechanisms,
such as a Bluetooth or wireless connection. In one embodiment,
eTITO device 202 may be configured to receive new identifiers 206
upon particular transactions with system 100, such as cashing out
of an EGM 108 to play another EGM 110.
[0031] In another embodiment, eTITO device 202 may contain an
identifier that is embedded, persistent, or otherwise unchanging
during interactions with system 100. For example, eTITO device 202
may include wireless chip 210 configured as read-only or other
identifying hardware such as an RFID chip. The identification
provided by wireless chip 210 may be included as part of, for
example, an e-wallet scheme as noted in FIG. 1. In such a case, a
built-in identifier provided by wireless chip 210 might not be
changed while user 103 interacts with various components of system
100.
[0032] eTITO device 202 may include an application 204 for reading
or providing an identifier. In one embodiment, application 204 may
be provided by the entity that is operating system 100. Application
204 may be available for download to eTITO device 202 for free or
minimal charge through any suitable application download service.
Application 204 may be configured to provide or read identifiers,
such a visual identifier 206 or embedded identifiers from wireless
chip 210. User 103 may launch application 204 to read a QR code
from, for example, casino kiosk 112 after depositing funds, so that
user 103 may play at various EGMs 108, 110. When approaching a
given EGM 108, user 103 may use application 204 to display the QR
code 206 to fund play on EGM 108. In one embodiment, upon cashing
out of the EGM 108 to play another EGM 110 or go to a kiosk 112,
user 103 may use application 204 to read a new QR code reflecting
an updated balance. In another embodiment, user 103 may simply cash
out of EGM 108, and the same QR code 206 may be used to access
another EGM 110 or kiosk 112. Thus, such an identifier as the QR
code 206 may allow user 103 to uniquely identify a wagering account
in order to: fund the wagering account at an EGM 108, 110, casino
kiosk 112, or casino cashier 114; place wagers at an EGM 108, 110;
or refund the balance of a wagering account at a kiosk 112 or
casino cashier 114.
[0033] Similarly, application 204 may control the access of
wireless chip 210. User 103 may configure application 204 to share
an identifier through NFC chip with an entity of system 100 to
access a kiosk 112, casino cashier 114, or EGM 108, 110. Such an
identifier may allow user 103 to uniquely identify a wagering
account in order to: fund the wagering account at an EGM 108, 110,
casino kiosk 112, or casino cashier 114; place wagers at an EGM
108, 110; or refund the balance of a wagering account at a kiosk
112 or casino cashier 114.
[0034] FIG. 3 is an illustration of an example eTITO device 302
that may be provided by system 100. For example, eTITO device 302
may be dispensed by a casino machine upon a player entering money
into the machine and wishing to use an eTITO device 302 for
wagering at various EGMs. eTITO device 302 may include, for
example, a smartcard, player card, fob, or any other suitable
electronic device. eTITO device 302 may include an identifying
chip, storage, computer-readable memory, or other mechanism to
communicate identifying information to system 100 to conduct eTITO
transactions. In one embodiment, eTITO device 302 may contain
identifiers that may be persistent during use by user 103 with
system 100. In another embodiment, eTITO device 302 may be
associated with a personal identification number which may unlock
use of eTITO device 302. Such a personal identification number may
be stored, for example, in the eTITO device 302 or in databases
118, 120 of system 100.
[0035] A user may obtain an eTITO device 302 upon entering a gaming
premises, upon applying funds to system 100, or at any other
suitable time. In one embodiment, eTITO device 302 and an
associated identifier may be presented to a user from a dispenser
in, for example, EGM 108, 110, casino kiosk 112, or casino cashier
114. Given a funding transaction, the dispensing unit 108, 110,
112, 114 may be configured to contact SAS host 116 to establish an
account for the funds and associate an eTITO identification with
the account. The association of funds, accounts, and eTITO
identifiers may be stored in databases 118, 120.
[0036] In one embodiment, eTITO device 302 may contain an NFC chip
308 for storing an identifier. In another embodiment, other
mechanisms for storing an identifier on eTITO device may be used,
such as an RFID chip. In yet another embodiment, an identifier may
be printed on the front of eTITO device 302, such as in text 306.
However, text 306 may not be machine-readable. Further, text 306
may be insecure compared to electronic mechanisms for storing the
identifier. Text 306 may be tailored to an individual player, with
name, affinity status, or other information displayed.
[0037] The identifier of eTITO device 302 may be configured to be
read by, for example, EGMs 108, 110, casino kiosk 112, or casino
cashier 114. Such elements of system 100 may be configured with
readers corresponding to the storage technology used on eTITO
device 302. For example, EGMs 108, 110, casino kiosk 112, or casino
cashier 114 may include an NFC chip reader configured to read
information such as the identifier of eTITO device 302 from the NFC
chip 308.
[0038] In one embodiment, eTITO device 302 may contain an
identifier that is embedded, persistent, or otherwise unchanging
during interactions with system 100.
[0039] FIG. 4 is a more detailed illustration of the interaction of
components of an example embodiment of system 100. eTITO devices
202a, 424, 426, 302a may implement fully or in part eTITO device
106 of FIG. 1. Electronic device 400 may implement fully or in part
an eTITO transaction handling element of FIG. 1 such as EGM 108,
110, casino kiosk 112, or casino cashier 114.
[0040] System 100 may include one or more eTITO devices 202a, 424,
426, 302a configured to access an electronic device 400 to make
transactions associated with wagering. eTITO devices 202a, 424,
426, 302a may be configured to make requests to and/or receive
information from electronic device 400. Electronic device 400 may
be communicatively coupled to SAS host 116 to authorize requested
transactions and provide output to eTITO devices 202a, 424, 426,
302a.
[0041] Electronic device 400 may include an eTITO application 402
configured to handle interfacing with eTITO devices 202a, 424, 426,
302a and SAS host 116, and for determining actions to be taken with
regard to eTITO transactions. Electronic device 400 may include a
processor 404 coupled to a memory 406. eTITO application 402 may be
configured to be stored within memory 406 for execution by
processor 404.
[0042] Electronic device 400 may be configured to operate with any
suitable number or type of eTITO device. FIG. 4 illustrates example
eTITO devices 202a, 424, 426, 302a. Smartphone 202a may be an
implementation of eTITO device 202 of FIG. 2. eTITO card 302a may
be an implementation of eTITO device 302 of FIG. 3. eTITO RFID card
424 may include an eTITO device with an RFID chip configured to
store an identifier. eTITO Bluetooth device 426 may include an
eTITO device with storage for an identifier and a Bluetooth
communication module configured to communicate the identifier. In
various embodiments, eTITO devices and electronic device 400 may be
configured with a limited set of the possible communications
technologies illustrated herein.
[0043] Electronic device may include any suitable type or number of
input/output modules for interfacing with eTITO devices 202a, 424,
426, 302a and/or user 103. For example, electronic device may
include QR code display 408, QR code reader 410, RFID
transmitter/receiver 412, NFC transmitter/receiver 414, Bluetooth
transmitter/receiver 416, eTITO card dispenser 418, currency
collector 420, and user interface 422. eTITO application 402 may be
communicatively coupled to each such input/output module.
[0044] QR code display 408 may include any suitable mechanism for
displaying a QR code. In one embodiment, mechanisms for
communicating other types of bar codes may be used within
electronic device 400. eTITO application 402 may be configured to
receive an identifier from SAS host to be communicated to an eTITO
device such as smartphone 202a. Such an identifier may be assigned
by SAS host to a wagering balance or account of the user of
smartphone 202a. eTITO application 402 may be configured to
transform, embed, encode, or otherwise communicate the identifier
from a QR code to be displayed on QR code display 408. Smartphone
202a may be configured to read the QR code with camera 208a or any
other suitable mechanism, and thus obtain the identifier 206a
assigned by SAS host.
[0045] QR code reader 410 may include any suitable mechanism for
reading a QR code. For example, QR code reader 410 may be
configured to read a QR code displayed by smartphone 202a. eTITO
application 402 may be configured to receive the QR code and
translate the QR code into an identifier of an account or wagering
balance associated with smartphone 202a. eTITO application 402 may
be configured to use such information in combination with a
requested action, such as cashing in, cashing out, depositing
funds, checking a balance, or other suitable transaction. eTITO
application 402 may be configured to pass the resulting identifier
to SAS host 110 for validation or further processing, along with a
requested transaction.
[0046] RFID transmitter/receiver 412 may include any suitable
mechanism for reading an RFID tag representing an identifier for an
account or wagering balance. For example, RFID transmitter/receiver
412 may be configured to read the RFID tag of eTITO RFID card 424.
eTITO application 402 may be configured to receive the RFID tag and
translate the tag into an identifier of an account or wagering
balance associated with eTITO RFID card 424. eTITO application 402
may be configured to use such information in combination with a
requested action, such as cashing in, cashing out, depositing
funds, checking a balance, or other suitable transaction. eTITO
application 402 may be configured to pass the resulting identifier
to SAS host 110 for validation or further processing, along with a
requested transaction.
[0047] NFC transmitter/receiver 414 may include any suitable
mechanism for reading or writing to or from an NFC device
representing an identifier for an account or wagering balance. For
example, NFC transmitter/receiver 414 may be configured to read the
wireless chip 210a of smartphone 202a or wireless chip 308 of eTITO
device 302a. In one embodiment, NFC transmitter/receiver 414 may be
configured to accept insertion of a device such as eTITO device
302a. eTITO application 402 may be configured to receive the
information from the NFC chip and translate the tag into an
identifier of an account or wagering balance associated with
smartphone 202a or eTITO device 302a. eTITO application 402 may be
configured to use such information in combination with a requested
action, such as cashing in, cashing out, depositing funds, checking
a balance, or other suitable transaction. eTITO application 402 may
be configured to pass the resulting identifier to SAS host 110 for
validation or further processing, along with a requested
transaction. NFC transmitter/receiver 414 may be configured to
write an identifier to the wireless chip 210a of smartphone 202a or
NFC chip 308 of eTITO device 302a, assuming such NFC chips are
configured in read/write mode. Such an identifier may be received
from SAS host 110 to assign the associated eTITO device with an
account or wagering balance.
[0048] Bluetooth transmitter/receiver 416 may include any suitable
mechanism for communicating information with a Bluetooth device
regarding identifiers for an account or wagering balance. For
example, Bluetooth transmitter/receiver 416 may be configured to
send or receive information with eTITO Bluetooth device 426,
including receiving or sending an identifier. eTITO application 402
may be configured to push such information to Bluetooth
transmitter/receiver 416, thus assigning an identifier to the
Bluetooth device 426, or to receive such information so that it may
be used to verify or authorize a transaction.
[0049] eTITO device dispenser 418 may include any suitable
mechanism for dispensing an eTITO device such as eTITO device 302a
to user 103. In one embodiment, eTITO device 302a may be encoded
with an identifier 308a known to eTITO application 402. In another
embodiment, eTITO application 402 may assign an identifier received
from SAS host 116 to eTITO device 302a. eTITO application 402 may
be configured dispense eTITO device 302a where a user 103 has no
eTITO-enabled device. SAS host 116 may be configured to assign the
identifier 308a of the eTITO device 302a to a balance corresponding
to the funds that user 103 deposited. In one embodiment, SAS host
116 may send an identifier to be assigned to eTITO device 302a, and
eTITO application 402 may dispense an eTITO device 302a pre-loaded
with the identifier received from SAS host 116.
[0050] Currency collector 420 may be configured to receive cash 428
deposited by user 103. Currency collector 420 may be configured to
notify eTITO application 402 with respect to the amount of cash
collected. eTITO application 402 may be configured to communicate
such information to SAS host 116 so that the funds may be
associated with an available balance for the user. If no eTITO
device has been used in conjunction with the deposit, eTITO
application 402 may be configured to dispense an eTITO device
302a.
[0051] User interface 422 may be configured to provide user 103
options to make requests, conduct various specific transactions,
access outside accounts for funding, or any other suitable task.
Such requests 430 may include requests to cash out winnings from an
individual machine using eTITO so that funds may be available for
another machine, cash out winnings from the eTITO system 100 in the
form of currency, get an eTITO device, check balances, or otherwise
access account information.
[0052] eTITO application 402 may be configured to handle some of
such requests by accessing SAS host 116. eTITO application 402 may
be configured to send such requests along with an identifier
indicating the account or wagering balance for which the request is
made. SAS host 116 may be configured to consult its records such as
those in its databases to authorize a requested transaction. SAS
host 116 may be configured to issue identifiers for new or changed
accounts or wagering balances.
[0053] System 100 and eTITO application 402 may be configured to
provide additional security features. For example, eTITO
application 402 may be configured to require user 103 to enter a
personal identification number ("PIN") or other code to load,
unload, or use available funds associated with an eTITO device.
Such a code may be used to provide additional security in
communications methods wherein communications may be intercepted.
For example, an eTITO Bluetooth device 426 may broadcast a signal
with a range to reach more than one EGM. Thus, a PIN or other code
may be used to securely select an individual EGM to which the user
wishes to connect. If user 103 wishes to have a receipt of an eTITO
transaction, eTITO application 402 may be configured to contact
personnel operating system 100 to provide such a receipt. An
identifier assigned to or associated with an eTITO device may or
may not be unique. If such an identifier is not unique, then the
identifier may be less secure. In one embodiment, the unique
identifier may be based upon when a particular wagering session,
addition of funds, or other transaction was conducted. In another
embodiment, the unique identifier may be based upon a number of
credits remaining. In yet another embodiment, the unique identifier
may be based upon a user-selected PIN or other code.
[0054] If an identifier to be assigned to an eTITO device is unique
and encoded with available credits, the identifier may be decoded
upon receipt. The resulting decoded available credits may be
compared against a record of available credits in, for example,
account database 118. If a disparity exists between the two amounts
of available credits, then SAS host 116 may be configured to not
validate the eTITO device. Personnel operating system 100 may be
notified to troubleshoot the discrepancy to detect system error,
fraud, or other possible sources of the problem. If the identifier
is unique and encoded with available credits, various parts of
system 100 such as EGM 108, 110, casino kiosk 112, and casino
cashier 114 may be configured to provide user 103 an indication of
the available credits without contacting SAS host 116. However,
such a balance may be inaccurate as it has not been validated
against the information stored by SAS host 116.
[0055] Game play or transactions associated with unique identifiers
in system 100 may require elements of system 100 to be connected to
SAS host 116 for validation and issuance of unique identifiers. In
one embodiment, if connections to SAS host 116 are not open, eTITO
application 402 may be configured to return a presented eTITO
device without initiating play or transactions. If a non-unique
identifier is used with a dispensed eTITO device 302a--in cases
where connections to SAS host 116 are down, or where a user PIN is
not used--user 103 may be warned concerning the security risks
associated with a non-unique identifier.
[0056] If a unique identifier is used, cash-out options to remove
all available funds from system 100 may be available at, for
example, a casino kiosk 112 or casino cashier 114. If a non-unique
identifier is used, cash-out options to remove all available funds
from system 100 may be available at a smaller set of places in
system 100, such as casino cashier 114.
[0057] If an eTITO device is based upon technology with a limited
number of possible writes, SAS host 116 may determine how many
times an identifier for the eTITO device has been written. If the
number of writes exceeds a threshold determined to be the expected
life of such a device, eTITO application 402 may be configured to
not dispense such an eTITO device.
[0058] In operation, as part of wagering activity a user 103 may
access system 100 configured to provide eTITO transactions. User
103 may approach, for example, an EGM 108, 110, a casino kiosk 112,
or a casino cashier 114. User 103 may select an "add funds" option
at one these elements of system 100. User 103 may, for example,
insert currency into a currency collector 420. An eTITO application
402 running on the EGM 108, 110, a casino kiosk 112, or a casino
cashier 114 may accept the funds and notify SAS host 116 that funds
have been received.
[0059] If user 103 has an eTITO device, then the eTITO device may
be interfaced with the element of system 100. For example, user 103
may place the wireless chip 210a of smartphone 202a near NFC reader
414 of casino kiosk 112. Alternatively, the user 103 may place or a
display of a unique identifier 206a (having a QR code) near QR code
reader 410. eTITO application 402 may send the identifier to SAS
host 116 to validate its existence. If an existing balance or
account associated with the unique identifier exists in system 100,
then SAS host 116 may validate its existence and allow transactions
to be conducted, such as adding money or cashing out. If no such
balance or account is associated with the unique identifier, then
one may be created. Such a creation may be preceded by a prompt
from eTITO application 402 advising user 103 that no account
exists, and that one will be created associated with the presented
identifier. If funds have been added by the user, they may be added
to the new account, or added to an existing account which has been
validated.
[0060] User 103 may have an eTITO capable device but not have an
identifier yet assigned. For example, user 103 may have a
smartphone 202a capable of displaying and reading QR codes, or a
wireless chip 210a capable of storing unique identifiers. User 103
may install an application on smartphone 202a for reading QR codes
specific to system 100, or to the entity operating system 100.
After creating an account and/or depositing funds, user 103 may be
prompted to place smartphone 202a near QR code display 408 or NFC
transmitter/receiver 414 so that smartphone 202a may read the QR
code or receive a unique identifier in wireless chip 210a.
Smartphone 202a may thus be assigned a unique identifier known to
system 100 and stored by SAS host 116, and be associated with an
account or wagering balance.
[0061] User 103 may not have an eTITO capable device. In such a
case, user 103 may access user interface 422 or currency collector
420 to, for example, obtain an eTITO device 302 from eTITO device
dispenser 418. User 103 may deposit currency through currency
collector 420 to initiate such generation, or user 103 may be
prompted to do so after seeking an eTITO capable device through
input on user interface 422. After receiving currency, eTITO
application 402 may select an available eTITO device 302a and
determine a unique identifier associated with the NFC chip 308a.
Such a unique identifier may be resident upon the NFC chip 308a or
may be received from SAS host 116. eTITO application 402 may send a
notification of the deposited funds with the identifier to SAS host
116, which may register the available funds and associate them with
the identifier.
[0062] User 103 may take the eTITO-enabled device containing a
unique identifier registered with system 100 to an electronic
device 400 configured as an EGM such as EGM 108. User 103 may use
the eTITO-enabled device to access the EGM for wagering purposes.
User 103 may use, for example, QR code reader 410, RFID
transmitter/receiver 412, NFC transmitter/receiver 414, or
Bluetooth transmitter/receiver 416 to access the unique identifier
on the eTITO device. The access may be accomplished by, for
example, touching the eTITO device to a reader on the EGM 108. Such
access may make the user's previously loaded funds available for
wagering on the EGM 108. eTITO application 402 may use the
identifier presented by user 103 to query SAS host 116 to validate
the amount of funds available. SAS host 116 may consult databases
118, 120 to validate the existence of the account and provide a
balance of funds available for wagering on the EGM 108. The EGM 108
may present the balance of available credits to user 103. User 103
may make a series of wagers with the available funds. eTITO
application 402 may record information regarding game play of user
103 for affinity programs, marketing, security, or other suitable
purposes. Such information may be transmitted to SAS host 116. SAS
host 116 may lock the funds associated with the unique identifier
from use by other entities of system 100 while user 103 is
accessing electronic device 400.
[0063] If user 103 attempts to use an eTITO device with an
identifier that cannot be authenticated--for example, SAS host 116
has no record of the identifier, or user 103 cannot correctly enter
the PIN--eTITO application 402 may reject the eTITO device use. A
message may be displayed in user interface 422 explaining any
related issues to the lack of authentication. If the eTITO device
was inserted into an electronic device 400, the eTITO device may be
returned to user 103. If the eTITO device cannot be authenticated
due to a detected abuse, fraud, or other malevolent reason, the
eTITO device may be kept by the electronic device 400.
[0064] When user 103 wishes to cease using EGM 108, the user 103
may select a "cash out" option on user interface 422. eTITO
application 402 may send a notification of remaining funds to SAS
host 116. SAS host 116 may record the number of credits available.
In one embodiment, SAS host 116 may generate a new identifier to be
transmitted to the eTITO device. eTITO application 402 may receive
the new identifier, translate the identifier into a mechanism
readable by the eTITO device, and prompt user 103 to provide the
eTITO device to receive the new identifier. For example, upon
selecting "cash out" user interface 422 may prompt user 103 to hold
smartphone 202a near NFC transmitter/receiver 414. eTITO
application 402 may notify SAS host 116 that user 103 is closing
the session, and provide an updated balance of funds. SAS host 116
may record the balance of funds, determine a new identifier and
associate it with the new balance of funds, and send the new
identifier to eTITO application 402. eTITO application 402 may
provide the new identifier to smartphone 202a through NFC
transmitter/receiver 414. In another embodiment, the eTITO device
may maintain the existing unique identifier. For example, upon
selecting "cash out," eTITO application 402 may notify SAS host 116
but not require user 103 to hold smartphone 202a near NFC
transmitter/receiver 414.
[0065] User 103 may subsequently go to another element of system
100, such as EGM 110, kiosk 112, or cashier 114. User 103 may
access the available funds by similarly providing the unique
identifier on smartphone 202a to such elements. User 103 may add
funds, make subsequent wagers on an EGM 110, or go to kiosk 112 or
cashier 114 to retrieve the balance of the available funds from
system 100.
[0066] To load additional funds, user 103 may use the eTITO device
to access an EGM, kiosk 112, or cashier 114. The unique identifier
stored on the eTITO device may be used to query SAS host 116 for
available funds. SAS host 116 may provide an indication of
available funds to be displayed by user interface 422. User 103 may
add funds with, for example, currency collector 420. The amount of
added currency may be sent by eTITO application 402 to SAS host
116, which may add the funds to the available balance. User 103 may
make additional wagers or transactions on the system. User 103 may
choose to leave and make a selection on user interface 422
accordingly. In one embodiment, SAS host 116 may optionally
designate a new identifier to be used by the eTITO device. User 103
may be prompted to, for example, touch smartphone 202a or eTITO
device 302a to NFC transmitter/receiver to obtain the new
identifier and close the session.
[0067] To remove funds from system 100, user 103 may use the eTITO
device to access cashier 114. The eTITO application 402 may obtain
the unique identifier from the eTITO device through, for example,
the user 103 touching smartphone 202a to NFC transmitter/receiver
414, and submit it to SAS host 116. SAS host 116 may access the
available funds associated with the identifier and send
verification to eTITO application 402. Cashier 114 may dispense
cash to user 103 according to the available funds remaining.
[0068] FIG. 5 is an example embodiment of a method 500 of
initiating electronic transfer-in and transfer-out transactions in
a wagering system.
[0069] In step 505, it may be determined whether a user has an
eTITO device. Such a determination may be made by prompting a user
of an EGM, casino kiosk, or casino cashier. The determination may
be made by a user taking direct action, such as placing an eTITO
device within or within range of a reader or entering funds
directly in a currency collector. If the user does not have an
eTITO device, method 500 may continue at step 550. If the user does
have an eTITO device, then in step 510 the user may be prompted to
place an eTITO device within or within range of a reader.
[0070] In step 515, it may be determined with an eTITO device has
been presented. If the device has not been presented, then step 510
prompting the user may be repeated. If the device has been
presented, then in step 520 an identifier from the eTITO device may
be determined. In step 525, the user may be prompted to enter a PIN
associated with the eTITO device and an account for wagering
balances. In step 530, the identifier may be validated against
stored records, or against a mechanism for creating such an
identifier.
[0071] In step 535, it may be determined whether the PIN and
identifier are valid. If the PIN and identifier are not valid, in
step 540 an error may be displayed and steps 510-535 may be
repeated. If the PIN and identifier are valid, then method 500 may
terminate. The user of the eTITO device may have successfully
accessed a wagering system by electronically transferring in funds
and may proceed with subsequent transactions.
[0072] In step 550, a user may be prompted to enter funds to create
an eTITO account. In step 555, it may be determined whether the
user has deposited or otherwise accessed funds for use with the
eTITO account and with an eTITO device. If not, then steps 550-555
may be repeated. If so, then in step 560 the deposited funds may be
validated, and records associated with the deposit may be stored.
In step 565, the user may be prompted for a PIN to be used in
conjunction with the eTITO account and with an eTITO device. In
step 570, an identifier may be determined. For example, the
identifier may be created based upon the deposited funds, an eTITO
device, a start time for the transaction, or any other suitable
factor. In one embodiment, the identifier may be a unique
identifier. The identifier may be stored. In step 575, the
identifier may be associated with an eTITO device. For example, the
identifier may be stored on an eTITO device such as the device
illustrated in FIG. 3. In step 580, the eTITO device may be
dispensed to the user. Method 500 may terminate. The user of the
eTITO device may have successfully accessed a wagering system and
may proceed with subsequent transactions.
[0073] FIG. 6 is an example illustration of a method 600 of
conducting electronic transfer-in and transfer-out transactions in
a wagering system. Method 600 may presuppose that a user has
already accessed a gaming system and established an eTITO account
by, for example, presenting an eTITO device, depositing funds and
generating an eTITO device, or any other suitable action. An
example of such actions may be found in method 500 of FIG. 5.
[0074] In step 605, it may be determined whether wagering game play
has been selected with sufficient funds to conduct such game play.
If so, then in step 610 wagering and associated game play may be
conducted. If not, then in step 615 it may be determined whether or
not a user has deposited funds. Step 615 may be implemented in
similar fashion to step 555 of method 500. If funds have been
deposited, then in step 620, the deposited funds may be validated
and recorded. If not, the method may proceed to step 625.
[0075] In step 625, it may be determined whether a user has
selected an option to cash out of a presently used machine. Such a
user may wish to move, for example, from one EGM to another EGM,
from a kiosk or cashier to an EGM, or from an EGM to a kiosk or
cashier. If the user has not selected to cash out of the presently
used machine, then the method may proceed to step 650. If the user
has selected to cash out of the presently used machine, in step 630
the amount of available funds may be determined. In step 635, an
identifier may be generated. Step 635 may be implemented in similar
fashion to step 570 of method 500. In step 640, a user may be
prompted to provide an eTITO device to receive the electronic
transfer of funds out of the presently used machine. The eTITO
device may already be resident in the machine, such as an
undispensed eTITO device. In step 645, the identifier may be
assigned to or stored in the eTITO device. The eTITO device may be
dispensed if it is still reside tin the presently used machine.
Method 600 may terminate, as user may now be in the possession of
eTITO device associated with a balance of funds that may be used at
other machines.
[0076] In step 650, it may be determined whether the user has
chosen to remove all funds from the gaming system. If not, the
method 500 may repeat beginning at step 605. If so, then in step
655, the available funds may be determined. In step 660, cash,
currency, or other forms of payment may be issued or dispensed to
provide user with the funds that were available in the eTITO
account. Method 600 may terminate.
[0077] Methods 500 and 600 may be implemented using the system of
FIGS. 1-4, or any other system operable to implement methods 500
and 600. As such, the preferred initialization point for methods
500 and 600 and the order of its steps may depend on the
implementation chosen. In some embodiments, some steps may be
optionally omitted, repeated, or combined. In some embodiments,
some steps of methods 500 and 600 may be executed in parallel with
other steps of methods 500 or 600. In certain embodiments, methods
500 and 600 may be implemented partially or fully in software
embodied in computer-readable media.
[0078] For the purposes of this disclosure, computer-readable media
may include any instrumentality or aggregation of instrumentalities
that may retain data and/or instructions for a period of time.
Computer-readable media may include, without limitation, storage
media such as a direct access storage device (e.g., a hard disk
drive or floppy disk), a sequential access storage device (e.g., a
tape disk drive), compact disk, CD-ROM, DVD, random access memory
(RAM), read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable
read-only memory (EEPROM), and/or flash memory; as well as
communications media such wires, optical fibers, and other
electromagnetic and/or optical carriers; and/or any combination of
the foregoing.
[0079] Although the present disclosure has been described in
detail, it should be understood that various changes,
substitutions, and alterations can be made hereto without departing
from the spirit and the scope of the disclosure as defined by the
appended claims.
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