Patent Application
20240096174
In various embodiments, the systems and methods of the present disclosure employ a cloud-based central determination server to provide predetermined game outcomes displayed at an electronic gaming machine in association with funds transacted at a point-of-sale terminal.
Electronic gaming machines generally require a player to place a wager to activate a game. An award for the activated game may be based on obtaining a winning symbol combination and on an amount of the wager placed.
In certain embodiments, the present disclosure relates to an electronic gaming machine including a processor, and a memory device that stores a plurality of instructions. When executed by the processor responsive to a request to play a game, the instructions cause the processor to modify a first balance of a first amount of non-cashable funds based on a purchase price of the play of the game. When executed by the processor responsive to a receipt, from a cloud-based server, of data associated with a game outcome seed selected from a set of game outcome seeds, the instructions cause the processor to cause a display device to display a predetermined game outcome determined based on the game outcome seed, and modify a second balance of a first amount of cashable funds based on any value component associated with the predetermined game outcome. When executed by the processor responsive to an occurrence of a game session termination event, the instructions cause the processor to issue a winnings ticket voucher associated with the first amount of cashable funds.
In certain embodiments, the present disclosure relates to a point-of-sale terminal including a processor, and a memory device that stores a plurality of instructions. When executed by the processor responsive to a receipt of data associated with a winnings ticket voucher associated with a first amount of cashable funds won from a play of a lottery game associated with a game outcome seed selected from a cloud-based server, the instructions cause the processor to modify a first balance. When executed by the processor responsive to an occurrence of a cashout event, the instructions cause the processor to cause a payout of at least the first amount of cashable funds.
In certain embodiments, the present disclosure relates to a method of operating an electronic gaming machine. Responsive to a request to play a game, the method includes modifying, by a processor, a first balance of a first amount of non-cashable funds based on a purchase price of the play of the game. Responsive to a receipt, from a cloud-based server, of data associated with a game outcome seed selected from a set of game outcome seeds, the method includes displaying, by a display device, a predetermined game outcome determined based on the game outcome seed, and modifying, by the processor, a second balance of a first amount of cashable funds based on any value component associated with the predetermined game outcome. Responsive to an occurrence of a game session termination event, the method includes issuing a winnings ticket voucher associated with the first amount of cashable funds.
Additional features are described in, and will be apparent from, the following Detailed Description and the figures.
In various embodiments, the present disclosure relates generally to systems and methods that employ a cloud-based central determination system (“CDS”) server to provide predetermined game outcomes displayed at an electronic gaming machine in association with funds transacted at a point-of-sale terminal.
In certain embodiments, the system of the present disclosure comprises a cloud-based CDS server that maintains one or more game outcome seed sets or pools. Each game outcome seed set includes a plurality of game outcome seeds. Each game outcome seed is deterministic of a predetermined game outcome. The cloud-based CDS server operates to distribute game outcome seeds to one or more electronic gaming machines for one or more plays of one or more games.
In certain embodiments, the system of the present disclosure also comprises one or more point-of-sale terminals at one or more non-gaming establishment locations, such as a retail establishment authorized to enable pull-tab lottery games but not authorized to enable probability-based gaming (e.g., Class III) games. Each point-of-sale terminal operates to handle the fund transactions associated with procuring game outcome seeds from the cloud-based CDS server and/or cashing out any winnings associated with any procured game outcome seeds. In certain such embodiments, the point-of-sale terminal enables a user to deposit an amount of funds in exchange for a ticket voucher associated with the deposited amount of funds. In certain such embodiments, each point-of-sale terminal additionally or alternatively enables a user to redeem a ticket voucher generated by an electronic gaming machine for an amount of funds cashed out from the electronic gaming machine.
In certain embodiments, the system of the present disclosure further comprises one or more electronic gaming machines at one or more non-gaming establishment locations. In certain instances, each electronic gaming machine is a regulatory approved device (e.g., a device that runs regulator approved gaming software and employs a state-based system) operable to deliver, via the display of one or more plays of one or more games, one or more predetermined game outcomes associated with one or more game outcome seeds distributed by the cloud-based CDS server. In certain embodiments, each electronic gaming machine is operable to establish an amount to be wagered responsive to a receipt of a ticket voucher procured at a point-of-sale terminal. Each electronic gaming machine is further operable to enable a user to select a wager amount to be placed on a selected game to be played and interface with the cloud-based CDS server to obtain one or more game outcome seeds. The electronic gaming machine utilizes each received game outcome seed to display a predetermined game outcome associated with a predetermined award. In certain embodiments, each electronic gaming machine is additionally or alternatively operable to maintain one or more fund balances (e.g., a balance of funds available to wager and a balance of funds from any awards associated with predetermined game outcomes displayed by the electronic gaming machine) and enable the user to cash out one or more of such maintained balances in exchange for a ticket voucher that is redeemable for funds at a point-of-sale terminal.
In operation of various embodiments, upon receiving an amount of funds associated with a user (with or without the user identifying themselves to potentially accrue benefits associated with undertaken activities), the point-of-sale terminal issues a ticket voucher (in physical or virtual form) associated with the received amount of funds. In certain embodiments, the amount of funds are physically deposited into the point-of-sale terminal and/or transferred to the point-of-sale terminal (or an account associated with the point-of-sale terminal) from one or more accounts associated with the user. For example, following a user interfacing with a mobile device to facilitate a transfer of $50 from a cashless account associated with the user and maintained by a cashless system to an account associated with the point-of-sale terminal, the point-of-sale terminal issues a ticket voucher associated with a value of $50. In certain embodiments, when issued, the ticket voucher is not associated with any particular games to be played nor any particular predetermined game outcomes purchased. That is, the ticket voucher issued from the point-of-sale terminal is, at that point in time, independent of any identifiable game and any identifiable game outcome (and rather represents an amount to be subsequently allocated to one or more games that present one or more predetermined game outcomes). In these embodiments, when issued, the ticket voucher is associated with a balance of funds committed by the user to be used to purchase predetermined game outcomes for one or more subsequently identified games to be played at one or more subsequently identified wager amounts. Accordingly, in certain embodiments, while issued in association with a receipt of an amount of monetary funds, when issued, the ticket voucher is associated with a balance of dedicated non-monetary funds that must be used or played through an electronic gaming machine to potentially be converted back to an amount of monetary funds then available to the user.
Following the issuance of a ticket voucher associated with an amount of funds and a receipt of the ticket voucher by an electronic gaming machine, the electronic gaming machine displays the balance of the dedicated amount of funds associated with the ticket voucher. The electronic gaming machine then enables the user to select a quantity of plays of one or more games at one or more wager amounts (i.e., a quantity of predetermined game outcomes to purchase) using part or all of the displayed balance of the amount of funds. In these embodiments, different games available to be played are associated with different wager amounts (i.e., different costs or purchase prices) such that the amount of a displayed balance used to cover the cost of the purchased predetermined game outcomes is based on the quantity of game plays purchased and the cost of each respective game play. For example, following the redemption at the electronic gaming machine of a ticket voucher purchased from the point-of-sale terminal associated with a value of $50 (that results in a balance of $50 committed by the user to be played through by the user), the electronic gaming machine enables the user to use the $50 to purchase, sequentially and/or as a batch purchase, different combinations of different games costing from $1 to $10 that collectively cost $50.
In certain embodiments, following the purchase of one or more plays of a game and the corresponding reduction of the balance of deducted funds of the electronic gaming machine to reflect the costs of such purchased plays (and following any reporting of the purchase to the point-of-sale terminal and/or a server of a point-of-sale system that the point-of-sale terminal is associated with), the electronic gaming machine requests one or more game outcome seeds from the cloud-based CDS server that maintains one or more sets of game outcome seeds. In these embodiments, the cloud-based CDS server selects, from the set of game outcome seeds associated with the purchased plays of the game, a corresponding quantity of game outcome seeds and communicates data associated with the selected game outcome seeds to the requesting electronic gaming machine. For example, if the user purchased ten plays of a $5 game, the cloud-based CDS server selects ten game outcome seeds from a game outcome seed set associated with the $5 game and communicates data associated with the ten selected game outcome seeds to the electronic gaming machine. Once selected, the cloud-based CDS server designates each selected game outcome seed which prevents that selected game outcome seed from being selected again from that game outcome seed set.
In certain embodiments, following the receipt of one or more selected game outcome seeds (and following any reporting of the selected game outcome seeds to the point-of-sale terminal and/or a server of a point-of-sale system that the point-of-sale terminal is associated with), for each selected game outcome seed, the electronic gaming machine displays to the user a play of a game that results in a predetermined game outcome determined from that selected game outcome seed. In these embodiments, since each game outcome seed is deterministic of a predetermined game outcome, the electronic gaming machine employs the selected game outcome seed to determine and display the associated predetermined game outcome, and modifies a balance for any value component of the predetermined game outcome. In certain embodiments, the electronic gaming machine further communicates data regarding the displayed predetermined game outcome and/or any value component of the predetermined game outcome to the point-of-sale terminal (and/or a server of a point-of-sale system that the point-of-sale terminal is associated with). In certain embodiments, to mimic the experience of playing a probability-based game, the electronic gaming machine displays the predetermined game outcome in association with a play of a game that uses one or more random determinations, such as by displaying a game including spinning a plurality of reels to display a symbol combination associated with an award having a value equal to a value component of the predetermined game outcome determined from the game outcome seed received from the cloud-based CDS server.
In various embodiments, in addition to operating as a delivery device for predetermined game outcomes purchased in association with a transaction occurring at a point-of-sale terminal, the electronic gaming machine enables a user to cashout one or more balances maintained by the electronic gaming machine. In certain embodiments, the electronic gaming machine maintains separate and independent balances, displayed as separate credit meters and/or as a combined credit meter, for the user dedicated funds to be wagered at the electronic gaming machine (i.e., a balance of funds purchased by the user from the point-of-sale terminal) and funds won at the electronic gaming machine (i.e., a balance of funds comprising any value components of any predetermined game outcomes determined from any game outcome seeds selected by the cloud-based CDS server).
In certain embodiments, following receipt of a cashout input, the electronic gaming machine operates with the point-of-sale terminal (and/or a server of a point-of-sale system that the point-of-sale terminal is associated with) to make the amount of funds of the cashed out balance(s) of funds available to the user. In certain such embodiments, the electronic gaming machine issues a ticket voucher (in physical or virtual form) associated with the amount of funds of the cashed out balance(s) of funds. In one such embodiment, the issued ticket voucher is redeemable at the point-of-sale terminal for an amount of currency associated with the amount of funds of the cashed out balance(s) of funds. In another such embodiment, the issued ticket voucher is redeemable at the point-of-sale terminal which then operates with one or more servers to transfer the amount of funds of the cashed out balance(s) of funds to one or more accounts associated with the user. In another such embodiment, the issued ticket voucher is redeemable at another (or the same) electronic gaming machine to establish another balance of dedicated funds for wagering at that electronic gaming machine. In certain such embodiments, rather than issuing any ticket vouchers, the electronic gaming machine operates with one or more servers to transfer the amount of funds of the cashed out balance(s) of funds to one or more accounts associated with the user.
It should be appreciated that in certain embodiments, since the system employs different balances associated with different funding sources (e.g., one balance of funds represents an amount committed to be used for purchasing plays of games and another balance of funds represents funds won at the electronic gaming machine from purchased plays of game), the system enables certain balances of funds to be directly provided to a user while other balances of funds may not be directed provided to the user. For example, the system enables the user to be provided the balance of funds won at an electronic gaming machine without enabling the user to be provided the balance of dedicated funds purchased from the point-of-sale terminal to be wagered at the electronic gaming machine. In this example, once the balance of dedicated funds is played through one or more electronic gaming machines, any wins resulting from such plays of such games becomes part of the balance of funds providable to the user.
It should be further appreciated that the system of the present disclosure utilizes different components associated with different functions to provide plays of games that employ predetermined game outcomes, such as pull-tab games, in a manner that is both preferable for certain users (in terms of the presentation of such games) and compliant with certain regulatory requirements (in terms of transacting funds associated with such games). Accordingly, in different embodiments, the financial transactions associated with procuring an amount to be wagered (via the subsequent, electronic gaming machine enabled purchase of predetermined game outcomes) and redeeming any amounts won from the purchased predetermined game outcomes occur at one or more point-of-sale terminals. In other words, while the presentation of a predetermined game outcome from a cloud-based CDS server selected game outcome seed occurs at an electronic gaming machine, in accordance with various jurisdictional regulations, the financial aspects of playing games associated with predetermined game outcomes (e.g., the financial aspects of purchasing certain lottery tickets) is handled via the point-of-sale terminal. Such a configuration provides that certain non-gaming establishments, such as retailers, located in jurisdictions where pull-tab games and/or instant ticket lottery games (such as with physical or virtual scratch-off-coatings (“SOCs”)) are permitted (but where probability-based gaming is prohibited) sell balances to be used to play pull-tab games and/or instant ticket lottery games (through a point-of-sale terminal associated with that establishment), while the user's experience in the presentation of such games more closely tracks that of a probability-based gaming environment (through the interaction with the electronic gaming machine).
More specifically, since certain users prefer to interact with probability-based electronic gaming machines that randomly determine, based on probability data, a game outcome (i.e., Class III gaming), and since certain jurisdictions prohibit the use of such probability-based electronic gaming machine, the configuration of the present disclosure provides a non-probability-based game outcome that a user experiences via an electronic gaming machine in a setting similar to interacting with a probability-based electronic gaming machine. In other words, despite certain user's preferences to engage in probability-based gaming, in view of the uncertainty of game outcomes of probability-based electronic gaming machines being randomly determined upon a probability calculation such that user may, theoretically, never obtain any particular award, regulatory bodies in certain jurisdictions do not permit the use of probability-based electronic gaming machines in-part for these reasons. These regulatory bodies however permit the use of non-probability-based electronic gaming machines that are guaranteed to provide certain or definite awards, so that, for example, a certain number of wins is guaranteed and the overall amount paid back to users is guaranteed (i.e., the payback percentage of such gaming machines, when cycled through a predetermined quantity of games played, is a static percentage (and not any average expected percentage)).
Against this backdrop of certain users preferring to interact with probability-based electronic gaming machines, certain jurisdictions only permitting the use of non-probability-based electronic gaming machines and certain jurisdictions only permitting lottery games to be sold at designated locations (e.g., retail locations such as convenience stores, and grocery stores), the system of the present disclosure employs different components to enable these locations to offer predetermined game outcomes selected from a cloud-based CDS server and displayed (or otherwise presented) via an electronic gaming machine. Put differently, by allocating certain tasks (e.g., procuring an amount to be wagered via the subsequent purchase of predetermined game outcomes and redeeming any amounts won from the purchased predetermined game outcomes) to a point-of-sale terminal associated with a specific designated location, allocating other tasks (e.g., selecting game outcome seeds from a maintained pool of game outcomes seeds) to a cloud-based CDS server associated with multiple designated locations, and allocating other tasks (e.g., presenting predetermined game outcomes determined from the selected game outcome seeds) to an electronic gaming machine associated with the specific designated location, the system of the present disclosure operates within the confines of certain jurisdictional regulations while interacting with users akin to how users interact with probability-based electronic gaming machines (e.g., Class III gaming machines). Such a configuration thus provides that certain non-gaming establishment locations, such as certain retailers, located in jurisdictions where pull-tab games and/or instant ticket lottery games are permitted (but where probability-based gaming is prohibited) sell and redeem pull-tab games and/or instant ticket lottery games (through a point-of-sale terminal associated with the retailer), while the user's experience in playing such purchased games tracks that of a user's experience playing games in a probability-based gaming environment, such as a casino.
While certain embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to utilizing a game outcome seed to determine one or more predetermined game outcomes of one or more plays of a primary game, such as a wagering game, it should be appreciated that such embodiments may additionally or alternatively be employed in association with utilizing a game outcome seed to determine one or more predetermined game outcomes of one or more play of a secondary game, such as a bonus game. Moreover, while certain embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to utilizing a game outcome seed to determine one or more predetermined game outcomes of one or more plays of a game displayed by a slot machine, any electronic gaming machine (“EGM”) executing regulatory approved gaming software including, but not limited to, a video poker machine, a video lottery terminal, a terminal associated with an electronic table game, a terminal associated with a live table game, a video keno machine, a video bingo machine and/or a sports betting terminal (that additional offers sports betting opportunities) may be employed to provide plays of games with predetermined game outcomes. Similarly, while certain embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to utilizing a game outcome seed to determine one or more predetermined game outcomes of one or more plays of a slot game employing a plurality of reels, it should be appreciated that such embodiments may additionally or alternatively be employed in association with utilizing a game outcome seed to determine one or more predetermined game outcomes of one or more plays of a non-slot game, such as, but not limited to, a card game (including, but not limited to, a poker game, a blackjack game, and/or a baccarat game), a keno game, and/or a bingo game.
In certain embodiments, the system enables a user to remain anonymous without identifying themselves to any of the components of the system. In these embodiments, to obtain a gameplay ticket voucher associated with an amount of funds usable to purchase plays of games with predetermined game outcomes, the point-of-sale terminal (“POS terminal”) enables the user to deposit an amount of dedicated funds to be used to procure a gameplay ticket voucher. That is, the system enables an amount of funds deposited in a POS terminal to be convertible to one or more gameplay ticket vouchers. In one such embodiment, the system enables a user that has an amount of cash (or other forms of payment) to utilize a POS terminal to procure one or more gameplay ticket vouchers via the user depositing the amount of cash into the POS terminal to create a balance of the POS terminal usable to purchase a gameplay ticket voucher. In another such embodiment, the system enables a user that has one or more cashless ticket vouchers (e.g., an anonymous bearer instrument issued by a cashless system and associated with an amount of funds and redeemable for cash via a kiosk or a cashier and/or, in certain instances, redeemable for game play on an EGM) to utilize a POS terminal to procure one or more gameplay ticket vouchers via the user depositing (or scanning with a scanner of the POS terminal) the cashless ticket voucher into the POS terminal to create a balance of the POS terminal usable to purchase a gameplay ticket voucher.
In certain embodiments, while a user may remain anonymous without identifying themselves to any of the components of the system, the system enables the user to identify themselves to receive the benefit of one or more patron management systems, such as the benefits associated with a loyalty program. In certain embodiments, to comply with certain jurisdictional requirements and/or operator policies, the system requires the user to identify themselves to one or more of the components of the system. In these embodiments, the system may (or may not) avail the user to receiving the benefit of one or more patron management systems, such as the benefits associated with a loyalty program.
In certain embodiments in which the user identifies themselves to the POS terminal, the POS terminal enables the user to identify themselves via the user presenting a user identifier at the POS terminal. In certain such embodiments, the user identifier includes a physical card associated with an account maintained for the user. In certain other embodiments, the user identifier additionally or alternatively includes a mobile device running a mobile device application associated with an account maintained for the user. In certain other embodiments, the user identifier additionally or alternatively includes a mobile device running a mobile device application associated with an identity of the user independent of any account associated with the user.
In certain embodiments, the user identifier presented to the POS terminal operates to identify the user for compliance reasons and/or loyalty program benefit accrual reasons. In certain embodiments, the user identifier presented to the POS terminal additionally or alternatively operates to facilitate a transfer of funds from one or more accounts associated with the user to one or more accounts associated with the POS terminal. In these embodiments, one or more components of the system of the present disclosure operate with a fund management system including various subsystems that are each associated with or otherwise maintain one or more electronic or virtual accounts. In these embodiments, the various accounts maintained for a user collectively form an enterprise account (i.e., a fund management account) for the user. That is, the collection of lottery game purchasing accounts (e.g. lottery wagering wallets), cashless wagering accounts (e.g. cashless wagering wallets, cashless sports wagering wallets and/or cashless mobile wagering wallets) and retail accounts (e.g., retail wallets) associated with or otherwise maintained for a user collectively form an enterprise account (i.e., an integrated fund management wallet) that the user may access to transfer funds and/or view balance information amongst the various accounts associated with or otherwise maintained for the user.
In various embodiments, the fund management system includes or is otherwise associated with one or more lottery game purchasing systems. Each lottery game purchasing system is associated with or otherwise maintain one or more lottery game purchasing accounts for one or more users. In certain embodiments, a user of a POS terminal utilizes a mobile device application running on a mobile device and/or a physical instrument (e.g., a smart card or a user issued magnetic striped card that the user utilizes via inserting the card into a card reader associated with the POS terminal) to facilitate the electronic transfer of any funds between the lottery game purchasing account associated with that user and the POS terminal.
In various embodiments, the fund management system includes or is otherwise associated with one or more cashless wagering systems. Each cashless wagering system is associated with or otherwise maintain one or more cashless wagering accounts. In certain embodiments, a user of a POS terminal utilizes a mobile device application running on a mobile device and/or a physical instrument (e.g., a smart card or a user issued magnetic striped card that the user utilizes via inserting the card into a card reader associated with the POS terminal) to facilitate the electronic transfer of any funds between the cashless wagering account associated with that user and the POS terminal. In certain such embodiments, the cashless wagering account associated with a user operates as a lottery game purchasing account associated with that user to enable the purchase of a gameplay ticket voucher at a POS terminal.
In various embodiments, the fund management system additionally or alternatively includes or is otherwise associated with one or more retail wallet systems that each maintain one or more retail accounts associated with one or more users. In certain embodiments, such a retail account (e.g., a retail wallet) of a retail wallet system operates with the POS terminal in the designated location authorized to sell plays of games with predetermined game outcomes to enable users to purchase a balance of funds to be used for such plays of the game via the user's retail account. In certain embodiments, the fund management system does not maintain a separate retail account, but rather utilizes the retail wallet system as a transaction coordinator to account for any transactions to purchase a balance of funds to be used for plays of games with predetermined game outcomes. In certain such embodiments, the retail account associated with a user operates as the lottery game purchasing account associated with that user to enable the purchase of a gameplay ticket voucher at a POS terminal.
In certain embodiments, the retail account is a retail account associated with a user having a balance or a pre-paid access account which, per current regulations from the U.S. Treasury Department Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (“FinCEN”), cannot be convertible to cash and can only be used for the purchase of a balance of funds to be used for plays of games with predetermined game outcomes. In these embodiments, such an account operates with a POS terminal to enable users to purchase a balance of funds to be used for plays of games with predetermined game outcomes via the user's account. Accordingly, in certain embodiments, based on one or more jurisdictional regulations, an amount of funds deposited in a retail account (and/or a user's lottery game purchasing account) may be used with various POS terminals to enable users to purchase a balance of funds to be used for plays of games with predetermined game outcomes, but such funds deposited in the account cannot be converted to cash or check. In certain other embodiments, based on one or more different jurisdictional regulations, an amount of funds deposited in a retail account (and/or a user's lottery game purchasing account) may be used with various POS terminals to enable users to purchase a balance of funds to be used for plays of games with predetermined game outcomes wherein such funds deposited in the account may be converted to or otherwise redeemable for cash or check.
In certain embodiments, the fund management system is in communication with one or more external funding sources that maintain one or more external accounts for the user. For example, the fund management system that maintains or is otherwise associated with one or more accounts drawn from to purchase a balance of funds to be used for plays of games with predetermined game outcomes is in communication with an external funding system that is in communication with a network of one or more banks or other financial institutions that operate to electronically transfer funds between the user's accounts maintained at such banks or financial institutions and one or more of the accounts maintained by the fund management system. In certain embodiments, such external accounts include, but are not limited to, one or more checking accounts maintained by one or more financial institutions (e.g., one or more banks and/or credit unions), one or more savings accounts maintained by one or more financial institutions, one or more financial institution accounts, such as a brokerage account, maintained by one or more financial institutions, one or more credit card accounts maintained by one or more financial institutions, one or more debit card accounts maintained by one or more financial institutions, and/or one or more third-party maintained accounts (e.g., one or more PayPal® accounts or Venmo® accounts).
In certain embodiments, the fund management system is in communication with one or more credit systems that each issue the user one or more lines of credit. In certain such embodiments, these lines of credit are accessible to facilitate a transfer of funds directly between the line of credit issued by the credit system and a balance of a POS terminal. In certain other embodiments, these lines of credit are accessible to facilitate a transfer of funds between the line of credit issued by the credit system and an account drawn from to purchase a balance of funds to be used for plays of games with predetermined game outcomes and further between such an account and a balance of a POS terminal.
In certain embodiments, the fund management system is also in communication with one or more credit reporting/credit risk systems that monitor and report on various accounts associated with the user. For example, the fund management system that maintains one or more accounts drawn from to purchase a balance of funds to be used for plays of games with predetermined game outcomes is in communication with one or more credit reporting and risk systems. These credit reporting and risk systems monitor and report on a credit rating and status of one or more accounts maintained for the user at various funding sources, such as various financial institutions. In certain embodiments, the fund management system is in communication with one or more patron management systems that monitor activities at various points of contact and provide rewards, such as redeemable player tracking points, in association with such activities.
In various embodiments, prior to identifying an account to the POS terminal, a user must first open and fund an account. In these embodiments, utilizing an interface, such as a mobile device application being executed by a mobile device, a website accessed from a browser, an interface of a POS terminal, an externally controlled service window displayed by the POS terminal, an interface of an EGM and/or an externally controlled service window displayed by the EGM, the user attempts to open one or more accounts through one or more interactive forms. For example, as part of opening a retail account, a user (whom has already logged into one or more fund management system accounts via a mobile device application) makes one or more inputs via an interface to provide certain user identifying information, such as, but not limited to, additional address details, a social security number and/or a mother's maiden name, and/or certain anticipated spending information, such as how the user intends to spend the funds withdrawn from such an account if opened. In certain embodiments, when opening the account, the user (and/or an operator) imposes certain use limitations on drawing funds from the account to purchase a balance of funds at the POS terminal, such as a total balance of funds that can be purchased from the account in a certain period of time.
In one such embodiment, in association with the opening of the account, the user is provided a physical instrument associated with the account. In another such embodiment, the user is provided a code to activate their account and/or download a mobile identification (e.g., a mobile pass representing the account) via logging into a mobile device application or logging into a website. In another such embodiment, the user is sent a short message service (“SMS”) text and/or e-mail informing the user how to activate their account and/or download a mobile identification via logging into a mobile device application or logging into a website. In certain embodiments, the system enables a user to enroll or otherwise sign up for such accounts via other avenues, such as via picking up an account card at various locations, via a mobile application running on a mobile device, via the POS terminal, via a kiosk and/or via adding an account to an existing patron account, such as linking an account to an existing patron tracking account. In another embodiment, the system automatically creates an account, such as a lottery game purchasing account, for a user who is otherwise associated with another account, such as a cashless wagering account. In certain embodiments, following the opening of an account and/or linking to an existing account and following any required acknowledgement by the user of any required terms and conditions associated with using such an account to purchase a balance of funds to be used for plays of games with predetermined game outcomes, the fund management system notifies the user, if applicable, regarding the different funding options provided by the fund management system. For example, the fund management system notifies the user, via one or more of a message displayed by the POS terminal, an email, a SMS text message, and/or a notification displayed by a mobile device application.
In certain embodiments wherein a transfer of funds to a POS terminal occurs in association with the user presenting a physical card associated with an account to the POS terminal, following the presentation, the POS terminal displays one or more interfaces that enable the user to input an amount of funds to be transferred from one or more accounts to an account associated with the POS terminal to purchase a gameplay ticket voucher associated with a balance of funds. In certain embodiments, wherein a transfer of funds to a POS terminal occurs in association with a mobile device application being executed by a mobile device, after a user has opened an application on a mobile device and inputted an amount of funds to be transferred from one or more accounts to an account associated with the POS terminal to purchase a gameplay ticket voucher associated with a balance of funds, the mobile device communicates data associated with the transfer of funds to the POS terminal. For example, when a purchase is attempted to be made with funds from an account using a mobile device application at a POS terminal, the mobile device application prompts the user to cause the mobile device to engage the POS terminal, such as prompting the user to tap the mobile device to a designated portion of the POS terminal (or otherwise moving the mobile device to within a designated distance of a designated location of the POS terminal). Such engagement initiates a pairing or linkage between the mobile device and the POS terminal (or a component of a fund management system located inside the POS terminal (i.e., a component of the POS terminal)), wherein the pairing or linkage between the mobile device and the POS terminal occurs via one or more applications being run or executed on the mobile device. In this example, after such engagement, the mobile device application communicates, via a wireless communication protocol (including, but not limited to: Bluetooth™, Bluetooth™ Low Energy (“BLE”), one or more cellular communication standards (e.g., 3G, 4G, 5G, 6G, LTE), one or more Wi-Fi compatible standards, and one or more short range communication protocols (e.g., a near field communication (“NFC”) protocol), data to the POS terminal to facilitate the potential purchase of a balance of funds to be used for plays of games with predetermined game outcomes. It should be appreciated that in certain embodiments, the mobile device application utilized is a location based digital wallet enabled application, such as a Passbook-enabled or Wallet-enabled application, which is accessible when the user enters the designated location of the POS terminal.
It should be appreciated that in different embodiments, in addition to or alternatively from utilizing a mobile device running a mobile device application to, amongst other actions, access funds to be transferred to a POS terminal to procure a balance usable to play games employing predetermined game outcomes, the system utilizes a kiosk, a gaming device (e.g., an interface of an EGM), an externally-controlled service window displayed by a kiosk or a gaming device, a component of a patron management system, such as a player tracking unit, the POS terminal, and/or a vendor interface, to, amongst other actions, access funds to be transferred to a POS terminal to procure a balance usable to play games employing predetermined game outcomes.
In various embodiments, to facilitate the transfer of funds from an account associated with the user to an account associated with the POS terminal to purchase a balance of dedicated funds to be used for plays of games with predetermined game outcomes, the system determines whether or not to complete the attempted purchase. In these embodiments, upon receiving data or information regarding an identified account that funds are to be transferred from and the amount of the attempted transfer, the POS terminal (and/or a server associated with the POS terminal) interfaces with, such as via one or more application programming interfaces, the fund management system to determine if the identified account has adequate funds for the intended transfer. Upon receiving the request of the determined amount of funds and logging the user into an account associated with the user (if necessary), a component of the fund management system determines whether to authorize the transfer of the determined amount of funds. In these embodiments, the component of the component of the fund management system (e.g., one or more servers of the fund management system) determines whether the account includes an amount of funds at least equal to the requested amount of funds to complete the transaction.
If the component of the fund management system confirms the presence of adequate funds in the identified account, the component of the fund management system authorizes the transfer. The component of the fund management system then proceeds to transfer an amount of funds to cover the purchased balance of funds to be used for plays of games with predetermined game outcomes from the account to an account associated with the POS terminal to complete the purchase. In these embodiments, if the component of the fund management system determines to authorize the determined amount of funds because the amount of funds in the account at least equals the requested amount of funds to complete the transaction, the component of the fund management system updates the account associated with the user (to reflect the transfer out of the requested amount of funds) and communicates an authorization to the POS terminal. Such a transfer of funds to complete the purchase is associated with a transaction identification that one or more components of the system store for reporting purposes.
On the other hand, if the component of the fund management system indicates that the account lacks adequate funds for the attempted transaction, the component of the fund management system denies the transaction because the account lacks adequate funds. In other words, if an account is not associated with enough of a balance to fund an attempted transaction, the fund management system denies the transaction using the account. In these embodiments, the POS terminal (and/or another interface) displays one or more transfer denial messages and, in certain embodiments, prompts the user to attempt to transfer a different amount of funds from one or more accounts to an account associated with the POS terminal.
In various embodiments, following the deposit and/or transfer of an amount of funds to the POS terminal, the system enables an amount of funds deposited in and/or transferred to the account associated with the POS terminal to be converted to one or more gameplay ticket vouchers. In these embodiments, the system enables a user to utilize a POS terminal to convert an amount of a balance of the POS terminal to a gameplay ticket voucher associated with an amount of funds. In certain embodiments, following establishing a balance of the POS terminal, the POS terminal enables a user to make one or more inputs associated with obtaining a gameplay ticket voucher. For example, as seen in
In certain embodiments, following the user making one or more inputs to procure a gameplay ticket voucher from the POS terminal, the POS terminal (and/or a server associated with the POS terminal) determines whether to authorize the purchase of a gameplay ticket voucher associated with an amount of funds in exchange for the amount of funds of the balance of the POS terminal. If the POS terminal (and/or a server associated with the POS terminal) determines not to authorize the exchange of an amount of funds of the balance of the POS terminal for a gameplay ticket voucher, the POS terminal communicates a denial to the user and does not cause any gameplay ticket vouchers to be issued. On the other hand, if the POS terminal (and/or the sever associated with the POS terminal) determines to authorize the exchange of an amount of funds of the balance of the POS terminal for a gameplay ticket voucher, the POS terminal: (i) retains the amount of funds, (ii) updates the credit balance of the POS terminal to reflect the exchange of an amount of funds for a gameplay ticket voucher, and (iii) issues a gameplay ticket voucher for an amount of funds usable for one or more plays of one or more games employing predetermined game outcomes. In certain embodiments, when issued, the gameplay ticket voucher is not associated with any particular games to be played nor any particular predetermined game outcomes purchased. In these embodiments, when issued, the gameplay ticket voucher is associated with a balance of non-monetary funds committed to be used to purchase predetermined game outcomes for one or more subsequently identified games to be played at one or more subsequently identified wager amounts. In such embodiments, based on the results of the subsequent plays of the games with predetermined game outcomes, such a balance of non-monetary funds may be converted to an amount of monetary funds.
It should be appreciated that since a created gameplay ticket voucher may take multiple forms, the system includes multiple ways to convey such a created gameplay ticket voucher to the user. In one embodiment wherein the created gameplay ticket voucher takes the form of a physical gameplay ticket voucher, the POS terminal causes a printer to print the created gameplay ticket voucher. For example, as seen in
In certain embodiments, in association with a POS terminal issuing a gameplay ticket voucher, the POS terminal (and/or a server associated with the POS terminal) stores a record of the gameplay ticket voucher. Such a record of the gameplay ticket voucher includes, for each gameplay ticket voucher, gameplay ticket voucher identification information stored in one or more gameplay ticket voucher databases and including, but not limited to, one or more of: (i) a gameplay ticket voucher vendor name; (ii) a gameplay ticket voucher vendor address; (iii) a gameplay ticket voucher title (e.g., “lottery gameplay ticket voucher”); (iv) a gameplay ticket voucher validation number (e.g., an eighteen digit number or code of the issued gameplay ticket voucher displayed on the gameplay ticket voucher); (v) a gameplay ticket voucher validation number machine-readable code (e.g., a bar code and/or a QR code that contains an encoded gameplay ticket voucher validation number; (vi) a ticket date/time (i.e., a date/time when the gameplay ticket voucher was issued); (vii) a ticket number (e.g., a sequential number displayed on the gameplay ticket voucher); (viii) an amount (i.e., an amount of the gameplay ticket voucher as a numerical value); (ix) an amount in words (i.e., the amount of the issued gameplay ticket voucher in words); (x) any expiration (i.e., an expiration date of the gameplay ticket voucher; (xi) a device identification (i.e., an asset or machine number of the POS terminal that issued the gameplay ticket voucher); (xii) font or formatting information associated with the gameplay ticket voucher, (xiii) an image of the gameplay ticket voucher (e.g., an image of a front of the gameplay ticket voucher and/or an image of a back of the gameplay ticket voucher), (xiv) a primary key (i.e., an index for the record in the table), (xv) a ticket state (e.g., a state of a ticket as being in a redeemed state, an unredeemed state or a suspect state), (xvi) a redemption date (i.e., the date the gameplay ticket voucher was redeemed at (if the gameplay ticket voucher is in the redeemed state), (xvii) redeemed at (i.e., the device where the gameplay ticket voucher was redeemed (if the gameplay ticket voucher is in the redeemed state), (xviii) a data signature (i.e., a signature of the data associated with the gameplay ticket voucher to prevent tampering); and/or (xix) compliance with any associated redemption limits or controls.
It should be appreciated that following the acceptance of funds and the creation of one or more gameplay ticket vouchers, the POS terminal (and/or a server associated with the POS terminal) stores information associated with the funds received and gameplay ticket voucher issued. In these embodiments, since the POS terminal handles the monetary transactions associated with the system of the present disclosure, the POS terminal (and/or a server associated with the POS terminal) operates with various reporting systems, such as an accounting system, to report such monetary transactions. In certain embodiments, the POS terminal (and/or a server associated with the POS terminal) communicates certain data (e.g., data associated with gameplay ticket vouchers purchased and/or wins reported from the EGM and/or cloud-based CDS server) in real-time and communicates certain other data (e.g., data associated with non-monetary transactions occurring at any component of the system) at periodic intervals. In certain embodiments, the POS terminal (and/or a server associated with the POS terminal) communicates certain data as that data is individually generated and communicates certain data as part of a batch reporting of data. In these embodiments, the reporting system consolidates data from one or more POS terminals for certain regulatory purposes, such as to determine any amounts of taxes owed on the transactions occurring at the POS terminal. In certain embodiments, the POS terminal (and/or a server associated with the POS terminal) additionally or alternatively operates with various patron benefit systems, such as a player tracking system, to report such monetary transactions. In these embodiments, the patron benefit system utilizes data from one or more POS terminals to determine any benefit, such as a quantity of loyalty points, earned by an identified user in association with the transactions occurring at the POS terminal.
In certain embodiments, once funds are used to procure a gameplay ticket voucher, the amount of funds of the gameplay ticket voucher cannot be returned to the user and are thus considered dedicated funds. That is, such funds associated with a gameplay ticket voucher cannot be directly cashed out and are not directly redeemable for cash (and/or a transfer of funds to an account associated with the user). Rather, such funds must be used for game play (or other gaming function) at an EGM, wherein the results of such game play is in a form of funds that may then be cashed out to a winnings ticket voucher redeemable for cash (and/or a transfer of funds to an account associated with the user). In certain other embodiments, even after funds are used to procure a gameplay ticket voucher, the amount of funds of the gameplay ticket voucher can be returned to the user by cashing out the purchased gameplay ticket voucher for cash (and/or transferring the amount of funds associated with the gameplay ticket voucher to an account associated with the user) at a POS terminal and/or an EGM.
In certain embodiments, following the procurement of a gameplay ticket voucher, the obtained gameplay ticket voucher is usable at an EGM in association with a gaming session. In these embodiments, following receipt of a gameplay ticket voucher associated with an amount of funds, that amount of funds establishes a credit balance of the EGM. In certain embodiments, in addition to or alternative from establishing a credit balance of the EGM responsive to a receipt of a gameplay ticket voucher, the EGM directly receives an amount of funds and establishes a credit balance responsive to such funds. In these embodiments, the EGM receives an amount of funds via a cash deposit of funds, a cashless ticket voucher deposit of funds and/or a transfer of funds from one or more accounts as described above in relation to establishing a balance of funds of the POS terminal. It should thus be appreciated that while generally described as the POS terminal and the EGM performing separate functions, in certain embodiments, the EGM operates as the POS terminal for the procurement of a gameplay ticket voucher and/or the redemption of a gameplay ticket voucher.
In various embodiments, following a user obtaining one or more gameplay ticket vouchers, an EGM enables a user to attempt to redeem such gameplay ticket vouchers in exchange for an increase of a balance of the EGM based on the amount of funds associated with that gameplay ticket voucher. In certain embodiments where the gameplay ticket voucher takes the form of a physical gameplay ticket voucher and that physical gameplay ticket voucher is attempted to be redeemed at an EGM, responsive to a user inserting a gameplay ticket voucher into a slot, such as a bezel, of an acceptor of the EGM (or scanning one or more machine-readable codes (e.g., a bar code and/or a QR code) of the physical gameplay ticket voucher with a scanner of the EGM), the EGM communicates with the POS terminal (and/or a server associated with the POS terminal) to identify the gameplay ticket voucher attempted to be redeemed and attempts to validate the received gameplay ticket voucher. In certain embodiments where the gameplay ticket voucher takes the form of a virtual gameplay ticket voucher, following the user scanning, with a scanner of the EGM, one or more machine-readable codes (e.g., a bar code and/or a QR code) displayed by the device storing the virtual gameplay ticket voucher or following the user selecting, via an interface of a device storing the virtual gameplay ticket voucher, a virtual gameplay ticket voucher to redeem, the device communicates with the POS terminal (and/or a server associated with the POS terminal) to identify the gameplay ticket voucher attempted to be redeemed at the EGM and the POS terminal (and/or a server associated with the POS terminal) attempts to validate the received gameplay ticket voucher.
In certain embodiments, upon the POS terminal (and/or a server associated with the POS terminal) identifying the gameplay ticket voucher attempted to be redeemed, the POS terminal (and/or a server associated with the POS terminal) attempts to validate the received gameplay ticket voucher. In certain embodiments, such an attempted validation of the received gameplay ticket voucher includes determining if any redemption limits or controls are associated with the gameplay ticket voucher that prevent the validation of the gameplay ticket voucher in association with the requested transaction. In one such embodiment, a redemption control pertains to the type of device that may or may not redeem the gameplay ticket voucher. In another such embodiment, a redemption control additionally or alternatively pertains to the location where a gameplay ticket voucher may or may not be redeemed at. In another such embodiment, a redemption control additionally or alternatively pertains to a value of the gameplay ticket voucher that may or may not be redeemed using a particular type of device and/or at a particular location. In another such embodiment, a redemption control additionally or alternatively pertains to an age of the gameplay ticket voucher that may or may not be redeemed using a particular type of device and/or at a particular location. In another such embodiment, a redemption control additionally or alternatively pertains to an identity of a holder of the gameplay ticket voucher (if known) that may or may not be redeemed using a particular type of device and/or at a particular location.
If the POS terminal (and/or a server associated with the POS terminal) determines, at least partially based on any applicable redemption controls, not to validate the received gameplay ticket voucher, the POS terminal (and/or a server associated with the POS terminal) communicates, to the EGM, data associated with the rejected redemption of the gameplay ticket voucher. In these embodiments, the EGM returns, if applicable, the gameplay ticket voucher to the user of the EGM and displays zero, one or more messages regarding the rejection of the received gameplay ticket voucher. In certain embodiments, such messages regarding the rejection of the received gameplay ticket voucher are provided to the holder of the gameplay ticket voucher via any suitable notification mechanism including, but not limited to, the EGM, a remote host controlled service window displayed by the EGM, a mobile device running a mobile device application, via an email, and/or via a SMS text message.
On the other hand, if the POS terminal (and/or a server associated with the POS terminal) determines, at least partially based on any applicable redemption controls, to validate the received gameplay ticket voucher, the POS terminal (and/or a server associated with the POS terminal) updates one or more gameplay ticket voucher databases to reflect the redemption of the received gameplay ticket voucher. In addition to updating any database to reflect the redemption of the gameplay ticket voucher, the POS terminal (and/or a server associated with the POS terminal) notifies the EGM of the amount associated with the received gameplay ticket voucher and the EGM updates one or more balances to reflect the amount associated with the received gameplay ticket voucher.
In certain embodiments, in addition to or alternative from employing gameplay ticket vouchers to transfer funds received at a POS terminal to an EGM, the system enables a user to interface with the POS terminal to facilitate a transfer of funds from one or more accounts associated with the user to a system account accessible by the POS terminal and the EGM. In these embodiments, similar to how funds are transferred to the POS terminal from one or more accounts associated with the user in association with the issuance of a gameplay ticket voucher, funds are transferred to an account associated with the POS terminal from one or more accounts associated with the user. Such funds are further associated with the user such that upon the user logging into an EGM and requesting access to such funds, the system transfers the funds from the account associated with the POS terminal to one or more balances of the EGM.
In certain embodiments, the EGM utilizes a single balance that increases based on amounts deposited, increases based on amounts won from plays of games employing predetermined game outcomes and decreases based on amounts used to purchase plays of games employing predetermined game outcomes. In certain embodiments, the EGM utilizes multiple balances for different activities occurring at the EGM. In one such embodiment, the EGM utilizes a first displayed balance (i.e., an amount to be wagered balance) that increases based on amounts deposited and decreases based on amounts used to purchase plays of games employing predetermined game outcomes. In this embodiment, the EGM utilizes a second displayed balance (i.e., an amount of winnings balance) that increases based on amounts won from plays of games employing predetermined game outcomes. In certain embodiments, the EGM utilizes multiple balances for different activities occurring at the EGM but displays to the user a single balance of the amount remaining to be wagered. In these embodiments, while the EGM tracks a second balance that increases based on amounts won from plays of games employing predetermined game outcomes, the EGM does not display the amount of this balance until the user terminates their gaming session.
In certain embodiments that utilizes multiple balances, the EGM does not enable any transfer between balances. In these embodiments, once the amount to be wagered balance is depleted, assuming no additional funds are deposited onto the EGM such as via the receipt of another gameplay ticket voucher procured from a POS terminal, the gaming session terminates because the user cannot transfer funds from the amount in the winnings balance to the amount to be wagered balance. In certain embodiments that utilize multiple displayed balances, the EGM enables the user to transfer funds from the second balance representative of amounts won from plays of game to the first balance representative of amounts to be wagered. In certain embodiments that utilize multiple balances, upon an occurrence of an inter-balance fund transfer event, such as a determination that the amount to be wagered balance is below a first threshold amount and/or the amount in the winnings balance is above a second threshold amount, the EGM automatically transfers funds from the second balance representative of amounts won from plays of game to the first balance representative of amounts to be wagered. In certain embodiments, the EGM utilizes one or more limits in the amount of funds that may be transferred from the second balance to the first balance.
Following the updating of the balance of the EGM to reflect the amount deposited that is available to be used to purchase plays of games with predetermined game outcomes, the EGM enables the user to select a type of game to play as well as a quantity of plays of the selected game to play. That is, since different games, such as different pull-tab games, are associated with different costs or purchase prices, the EGM enables a user to select which games to play at which price points as well as the quantity of games to play at that selected cost. In certain embodiments, the EGM enables the user to select a cost per game played and then the EGM enables the user to select a game available at the selected cost. In these embodiments, the EGM enables the user to individually and sequentially purchase each game to be played at a specific cost. In certain embodiments, the EGM enables the user to select a cost per game played and then the EGM enables the user to select one or more games available at the selected cost. In these embodiments, the EGM enables the user to batch purchase games to be played at a specific cost. For example, as seen in
Following the selection of one or more games to play at one or more costs per game play and upon an occurrence of a game triggering event, the EGM initiates a play of a game. In certain embodiments, the game comprises a primary game wherein the game triggering event includes the purchase of a lottery game at a specific price point (i.e., a placement of a wager on the play of the primary game). In another embodiment, the game comprises a secondary game wherein the game triggering event occurs based on a displayed event associated with a play of a primary game. In another embodiment wherein the game comprises a secondary game the game triggering event occurs based on an event independent of any displayed event associated with the play of the primary game.
For the initiated play of the game, the EGM requests a game outcome seed from a cloud-based CDS server. In one such embodiment, the EGM requests game outcome seeds one at a time from the cloud-based CDS server. In this embodiment, each play of the game is associated with an individual request of a game outcome seed from the appropriate game outcome seed set. For example, as seen in
In another such embodiment, the EGM requests game outcome seeds as part of a batch request from the cloud-based CDS server. In this embodiment, if the user has committed to playing a plurality of plays of one or more games, the EGM batch processes these commitments and requests a plurality of game outcome seeds from the appropriate game outcome seed set(s). In such instances, for each initiated play of the game, the EGM first determines if any game outcome seeds remain from the purchased batch. If so, the EGM utilizes one of the game outcome seeds from the purchased batch without requesting a game outcome seed from the cloud-based CDS server. If not, the EGM request another game outcome seed (or another batch of game outcome seeds) from the cloud-based CDS server.
In certain embodiments, each single play game outcome seed is associated with (or otherwise deterministic of) a single predetermined game outcome for a single play of the game. For each single game outcome seed, the single predetermined game outcome (which that game outcome seed is deterministic of) includes an outcome component (i.e., a win game or a lose game) and a value component (i.e., the award amount, if any). In certain embodiments, for each single game outcome seed, the single predetermined game outcome (which that game outcome seed is deterministic of) also includes a presentation component (i.e., how the game outcome will be presented or displayed).
In certain embodiments, each single play game outcome seed is associated with (or otherwise deterministic of) a plurality of predetermined game outcomes for a plurality of plays of the game. For each game outcome seed, each of the predetermined game outcomes (which that game outcome seed is deterministic of) includes an outcome component (i.e., a win game or a lose game) and a value component (i.e., the award amount, if any). In certain embodiments, for each game outcome seed, each of the predetermined game outcomes (which that game outcome seed are deterministic of) also includes a presentation component (i.e., how the game outcome will be presented or displayed).
In certain embodiments, different games available to be played having different attributes (e.g., different wager amounts, different themes, different paytables) are associated with different sets or pools of game outcomes seeds. That is, such different available games are associated with different sets or pools of game outcome seeds specific to the game played. For example, a poker game played on a first EGM utilizes a first set or pool of game outcome seeds and a slots game played on a second, different EGM utilizes a second, different set or pool of game outcome seeds. In certain such embodiments, the cloud-based CDS server maintains game outcome seed sets, wherein each game outcome seed set is associated with one or more games at a particular cost per play of that game. In one such embodiment, the cloud-based CDS server maintains a game outcome seed set for each different game at each different cost. For example, with reference to
In certain embodiments wherein the EGM enables a user to initiate plays of games associated with different wager amounts, the cloud-based CDS server utilizes different pools of game outcome seeds for the different wager amounts. In another embodiment wherein the EGM enables a user to initiate plays of games associated with different wager amounts, the cloud-based CDS server utilizes the same pool of game outcome seeds irrespective of the wager amount. In this embodiment, rather than the predetermined game outcomes associated with the game outcome seeds having static game outcome value components, each predetermined game outcome has a dynamic game outcome value component which is determined based on a game outcome multiplier of the predetermined game outcome value component applied to the purchase price of that game.
Upon receiving the request for one or more game outcome seeds, the cloud-based CDS server randomly selects one or more game outcome seeds from the maintained game outcome seed set utilized for the initiated play of the game. Such a configuration instills a degree of randomness (i.e., which game outcome seed is randomly determined) to a system employed in a jurisdiction with regulatory rules that do not permit the use of probability-based gaming. Additionally, such central production or control of game outcome seeds can assist an entity in maintaining appropriate records, controlling gaming, reducing and preventing cheating or electronic or other errors, reducing or eliminating win-loss volatility and the like.
Following the selection of a game outcome seed, the cloud-based CDS server removes the selected game outcome seed from the game outcome seed set. Once removed from the game outcome seed set, the specific selected game outcome seed from that specific game outcome seed set cannot be selected again. Such removal of the selected game outcome seed provides users with all of the available predetermined game outcomes (which the game outcome seeds are deterministic of) over the course of the play cycle and guarantees the actual wins and losses. For example, if prior to the current play of the game, a game outcome seed set associated with that game includes 100,000 game outcome seeds, after the cloud-based CDS server randomly selected one of the game outcome seeds and removed that game outcome seed, the game outcome seed set associated with that game now includes 99,999 game outcome seeds.
Following the selection and removal of a game outcome seed from a game outcome seed set, the cloud-based CDS server communicate data associated with the selected game outcome seed to the EGM. Upon receiving data associated with the selected game outcome seed, the EGM provides, for the initiated play of the game, the predetermined game outcome associated with the selected game outcome seed.
In certain embodiments, providing the predetermined game outcome associated with the selected game outcome seed includes displaying the presentation component of the predetermined game outcome determined utilizing the selected game outcome seed and further displaying an award amount (i.e., the value component of the predetermined game outcome determined utilizing the selected game outcome seed). More specifically, the system utilizes the selected game outcome seed in a random number sequence generator to generate random numbers which are then used to determine, present and provide a predetermined game outcome to a user. For example, as seen in
In certain embodiments, providing the predetermined game outcome associated with the selected game outcome seed includes the EGM displaying a SOC-type lottery ticket associated with the selected game outcome seed. In these embodiments, the predetermined game outcome associated with the selected game outcome seed takes the form of a displayed instant lottery ticket, such as a scratcher instant lottery game. Such an instant lottery ticket include a displayed a ticket substrate, a displayed front surface of the ticket substrate, a displayed predefined scratch-off area defined on the front surface, a displayed a scratch-off coating displayed as covering variable lottery game indicia on the predefined scratch-off area, and variable instant lottery ticket information indicia displayed on the front surface. The EGM employs the variable lottery game indicia to indicate the predetermined game outcome associated with the selected game outcome seed.
In certain embodiments, the system determines a predetermined game outcome and/or award based on the results of a bingo or keno game. In certain such embodiments, the system utilizes one or more bingo or keno games to determine the predetermined game outcome and/or award provided for a play of a game. For example, the system employs a bingo card including a matrix or array of elements, wherein each element is designated with separate indicia. In this example, the system randomly selects or draws a plurality of the elements. As each element is selected, a determination is made as to whether the selected element is present on the bingo card. If the selected element is present on the bingo card, that selected element on the provided bingo card is marked or flagged. This process of selecting elements and marking any selected elements on the provided bingo cards continues until one or more predetermined patterns are marked on one or more of the provided bingo cards. After one or more predetermined patterns are marked on one or more of the provided bingo cards, game outcome and/or award is determined based, at least in part, on the selected elements on the provided bingo cards.
While illustrated in
In different embodiments, one or more awards provided in association with the play of the game (that are predetermined in accordance with a game outcome seed) include one or more of: a quantity of monetary credits, a quantity of non-monetary credits, a quantity of promotional credits, a quantity of player tracking points, a progressive award, a modifier, such as a multiplier, a quantity of free plays of one or more games, a quantity of plays of one or more secondary or bonus games, a multiplier of a quantity of free plays of a game, one or more lottery based awards, such as lottery or drawing ticket vouchers, a wager match for one or more plays of one or more games, an increase in the average expected payback percentage for one or more plays of one or more games, one or more comps, such as a free dinner, a free night's stay at a hotel, a high value product such as a free car, or a low value product, one or more bonus credits usable for online play, a lump sum of player tracking points or credits, a multiplier for player tracking points or credits, an increase in a membership or player tracking level, one or more coupons or promotions usable, virtual goods associated with the system, virtual goods not associated with the system, an access code usable to unlock content on an internet.
In one embodiment, at least one display device of the EGM displays the play of the game. In another embodiment, the system additionally or alternatively causes one or more community or overhead display devices to display part or all of the play of the game with to one or more bystanders either within the non-gaming establishment or viewing over a network, such as the internet. In another embodiment, the system additionally or alternatively causes one or more internet sites to each display the play of the game such that a user is enabled to log on from a personal web browser. In another such embodiment, the system enables the user to view the play of the game on one device while viewing another play of the game from another device.
While illustrated in
In certain embodiments, in association with the purchase of a play of a game employing a predetermined game outcome, a request of a game outcome seed from the cloud-based CDS server, the selection of a game outcome seed by the cloud-based CDS server and/or a display by the EGM of a predetermined game outcome determined by the selected game outcome seed, the cloud-based CDS server and/or the EGM communicate data to the POS terminal (and/or a server associated with the POS terminal) regarding the play of a game employing a predetermined game outcome, the request of a game outcome seed from the cloud-based CDS server, the selection of the game outcome seed by the cloud-based CDS server and/or the display by the EGM of the predetermined game outcome determined by the selected game outcome seed. That is, since in certain embodiments, the financial transactions associated with procuring an amount to be wagered via the purchase of a balance of funds usable to obtain predetermined game outcomes occur at one or more POS terminals and since, in certain embodiments, the presentation of a predetermined game outcome from a cloud-based CDS server selected game outcome seed occurs at an EGM, in accordance with various jurisdictional regulations, the financial aspects of playing games associated with predetermined game outcomes (e.g., the financial aspects of purchasing certain lottery tickets) is handled by and periodically reported to the POS terminal by such other components tasked with certain aspects of the system. Such a configuration provides that certain non-gaming establishments, such as retailers, located in jurisdictions where pull-tab games and/or instant ticket lottery games are permitted (but where probability-based gaming is prohibited) sell and redeem pull-tab games and/or instant ticket lottery games (through a POS terminal associated with that establishment), while the user's experience in the presentation of such purchased games more closely tracks that of a probability-based gaming environment (through the interaction with the EGM).
In various embodiments where the identity of the user is known, the system operates with one or more patron management systems to enable operators to recognize the value of customer loyalty by identifying frequent customers and rewarding them for their patronage. Such a patron management system is configured to track a user's activity, such as gameplay ticket vouchers purchased from the POS terminal and/or plays of games employing predetermined game outcomes played through the EGM. In these embodiments, the system timely tracks any suitable information or data relating to the identified user's gaming session. The system also timely tracks when the gaming session is concluded and no more activity should be attributed to the user. In different embodiments, during one or more gaming sessions, the system tracks any suitable information or data, such as costs of each game played, average cost of games played, and/or the time at that these costs are incurred. In different embodiments, for one or more users, the patron management system includes the user's account number, the user's card number, the user's first name, the user's surname, the user's preferred name, the user's tracking ranking, any promotion status associated with the user's tracking card, the user's address, the user's birthday, the user's anniversary, the user's recent gaming sessions, or any other suitable data. In various embodiments, such tracked information and/or any suitable feature associated with the patron management system is displayed to the user via any suitable interface, such as a player tracking display, a service window displayed by the EGM and/or by the POS terminal.
It should be appreciated that the employment of a cloud-based CDS server (i.e., a processor operating in a cloud-native environment) to select game outcome seeds enables the cloud-based CDS server to service multiple locations that each have one or more POS terminals connecting to one or more EGMs. That is, unlike certain prior central determination system servers that required an on-site server isolated from external systems and hard-wired to the EGMs at that particular location, the utilization of a cloud-based CDS server enables multiple POS terminals and multiple EGMs that are connected to the cloud (either directly via communication from the POS terminal and/or EGM directly to/from the cloud-based CDS server on the Internet or via a proxy such as via local software running on a local network, that the POS terminal and/or EGM communicates with and that passes messages back and forth) to offer plays of games with predetermined game outcomes at venues where such offering was previously unavailable. As such, rather than requiring hundreds (or even thousands) of on-site servers for hundreds (or even thousands) of locations within a jurisdiction that offer plays of lottery games (e.g., pull-tab games and/or instant ticket lottery games), the deployment of a cloud-based CDS server solution enable each of the locations within the jurisdiction to offer plays of such lottery games while reducing the risks of downtime at each individual location in the event the on-site server at that individual location becomes inoperable. Moreover, the deployment of a cloud-based CDS server solution which is in communication with the EGMs and/or POS terminals at the different locations within a jurisdiction enables any modifications (e.g., updates) to such EGMs and/or POS terminals to occur in a relatively more efficient and timely manner than prior systems reliant on disparate on-site servers. Accordingly, the use of a cloud-based system which includes distributed systems and devices (such as those based on the cloud), as well as software, firmware, and other components configured to carry out one or more of the functions of the present disclosure overcomes technical hurdles that prior on-site central determination systems incurred with scalability to achieve scalable management of geographically distributed POS terminals and/or EGMs.
Accordingly, as illustrated in
It should thus be appreciated that in certain embodiments, the present disclosure relates to an EGM that, responsive to a request to play a game, modifies a first balance of a first amount of non-cashable funds based on a purchase price of the play of the game. In these embodiments, responsive to a receipt, from a cloud-based server, of data associated with a game outcome seed selected from a set of game outcome seeds, the EGM causes a display device to display a predetermined game outcome determined based on the game outcome seed, and modify a second balance of a first amount of cashable funds based on any value component associated with the predetermined game outcome. In these embodiments, responsive to an occurrence of a game session termination event, the EGM issues a winnings ticket voucher associated with the first amount of cashable funds. In certain such embodiments, the winnings ticket voucher is redeemable at a point-of-sale terminal for a monetary amount based on the first amount of cashable funds. In certain additional or alternative embodiments, the winnings ticket voucher is associated with the first amount of non-cashable funds. In certain additional or alternative embodiments, the winnings ticket voucher is redeemable at a point-of-sale terminal for a monetary amount based on the first amount of non-cashable funds and the first amount of cashable funds. In certain such embodiments, the winnings ticket voucher is redeemable at another electronic gaming machine to modify a first balance of an amount of non-cashable funds of that other electronic gaming machine. In certain additional or alternative embodiments, the winnings ticket voucher includes a virtual winnings ticket voucher. In certain additional or alternative embodiments, the play of the game includes an instant ticket lottery game displayed as a probability-based game.
In certain additional or alternative embodiments, the EGM enables a transfer of a second amount of cashable funds from the second balance to the first balance such that after the transfer, the second amount of cashable funds is converted to a second amount of non-cashable funds. In certain additional or alternative embodiments, the EGM reports, to a point-of-sale terminal, data associated with at least one of: the first balance, the second balance, the purchase price of the play of the game, the predetermined game outcome, and any value component associated with the predetermined game outcome.
In various embodiments, in addition to operating as a delivery device for predetermined game outcomes obtained using a balance purchased via a POS terminal, the EGM enables a user to cashout one or more balances maintained by the EGM. In these embodiments, upon a gaming session termination event, the EGM operates with the POS terminal to make the amount of funds of the cashed out balance of funds available to the user. As such, in these embodiments, while any predetermined game outcomes (selected from the cloud-based CDS server as game outcome seeds) are presented via the EGM, any winnings associated with such predetermined game outcomes are delivered via the POS terminal. In certain alternative embodiments, any predetermined game outcomes (selected from the cloud-based CDS server as game outcome seeds) are presented via the EGM, and any winnings associated with such predetermined game outcomes are delivered via the EGM as well.
In certain embodiments, upon a gaming session termination event, such as upon a cashout input received by the EGM, the EGM (and/or a server associated with the EGM) determines whether to authorize the exchange of the amount of funds of the balances of the EGM for a winnings ticket voucher having a corresponding amount of funds. If the EGM (and/or a server associated with the EGM) determines not to cash out of the balances of the EGM for a winnings ticket voucher, the EGM communicates a denial to the user and does not cause any winnings ticket vouchers to be issued. For example, if only the winnings balance of the EGM (i.e., the balance that increases based on amounts won from plays of games employing predetermined game outcomes) may be cashed out and the EGM determines that the winnings balance of the EGM is zero, the EGM denies the issuance of a winnings ticket voucher even if the amount to be wagered balance is greater than zero. In another example, if funds used to procure a gameplay ticket voucher cannot be returned to the user (i.e., such funds must be used for game play at an EGM) and the EGM determines that the amount to be wagered balance is greater than zero (i.e., an amount of funds used to procure a gameplay ticket voucher remain), the EGM denies the issuance of a winnings ticket voucher for such funds (in certain instances, even if the amount of winnings balance is greater than zero).
On the other hand, if the EGM (and/or the sever associated with the EGM) determines to authorize the cashing out of the balances of the EGM for a winnings ticket voucher, the EGM: (i) updates the credit balances of the EGM to reflect the exchange of an amount of funds of the credit balances for a winnings ticket voucher, and (ii) issues a winnings ticket voucher for an amount of funds of the cashed out credit balances. It should be appreciated that since a created winnings ticket voucher may take multiple forms, the system includes multiple ways to convey such a created winnings ticket voucher to the user. In one embodiment wherein the created winnings ticket voucher takes the form of a physical winnings ticket voucher, the EGM causes a printer to print the created winnings ticket voucher. In another embodiment wherein the created winnings ticket voucher takes the form of a virtual winnings ticket voucher, the EGM (and/or a component of the EGM) communicates data to a device associated with the user, such as a mobile device running an application, to transfer the created virtual winnings ticket voucher to the user.
In certain embodiments, in association with an EGM issuing a winnings ticket voucher, the EGM (and/or a server associated with the EGM) stores a record of the winnings ticket voucher. Such a record of the winnings ticket voucher includes, for each winnings ticket voucher, winnings ticket voucher identification information including, but not limited to, one or more of: (i) a winnings ticket voucher vendor name; (ii) a winnings ticket voucher vendor address; (iii) a winnings ticket voucher title (e.g., “lottery winnings ticket voucher”); (iv) a winnings ticket voucher validation number (e.g., an eighteen digit number or code of the issued winnings ticket voucher displayed on the winnings ticket voucher); (v) a winnings ticket voucher validation number machine-readable code (e.g., a bar code and/or a QR code that contains an encoded winnings ticket voucher validation number; (vi) a ticket date/time (i.e., a date/time when the winnings ticket voucher was issued); (vii) a ticket number (e.g., a sequential number on the winnings ticket voucher); (viii) an amount (i.e., an amount of the winnings ticket voucher as a numerical value with a currency sign); (ix) an amount in words (i.e., the amount of the issued winnings ticket voucher in words); (x) any expiration (i.e., an expiration date of the winnings ticket voucher; (xi) a device identification (i.e., an asset or machine number of the POS terminal that issued the winnings ticket voucher); (xii) font or formatting information associated with the winnings ticket voucher, (xiii) an image of the winnings ticket voucher (e.g., an image of a front of the winnings ticket voucher and/or an image of a back of the winnings ticket voucher), (xiv) a primary key (i.e., an index for the record in the table), (xv) a ticket state (e.g., a state of a ticket as being in a redeemed state, an unredeemed state or a suspect state), (xvi) a redemption date (i.e., the date the winnings ticket voucher was redeemed at (if the winnings ticket voucher is in the redeemed state), (xvii) redeemed at (i.e., the device where the winnings ticket voucher was redeemed (if the winnings ticket voucher is in the redeemed state), (xviii) a data signature (i.e., a signature of the data associated with the winnings ticket voucher to prevent tampering); and/or (xix) compliance with any associated redemption limits or controls.
In certain embodiments, once issued, the EGM (and/or another EGM) enables the winnings ticket voucher to be received to establish one or more balances of that EGM. In one such embodiment, the different balances cashed out from an EGM onto a winnings ticket voucher are reestablished as different balances on the EGM that receives that winnings ticket voucher. For example, if a winnings ticket voucher is associated with both a positive winnings balance cashed out from the EGM and a positive amount to be wagered balance cashed out from the EGM, upon receiving the winnings ticket voucher, the EGM establishes both balances. In certain embodiments, once issued, the EGM (and/or another EGM) enables the winnings ticket voucher to be received to establish one or more balances of that EGM. In another such embodiment, the different balances cashed out from an EGM onto a winnings ticket voucher are partially reestablished on the EGM that receives that winnings ticket voucher. For example, if a winnings ticket voucher is associated with both a positive winnings balance cashed out from the EGM and a positive amount to be wagered balance cashed out from the EGM, upon receiving the winnings ticket voucher, the EGM establishes the amount to be wagered balance without reestablishing the winnings balance. In this example, the amount of the winnings balance is collectable from the POS terminal.
In certain embodiments, once issued, no EGMs enable any winnings ticket vouchers to be received to establish any balances of such EGMs. In these embodiments, regardless of the amounts of the balances cashed out from an EGM and associated with a winnings ticket voucher, the EGM prohibits any of such balances from being reestablished as any balances on that EGM. In this example, the amounts of such balances are collectable from the POS terminal.
In certain embodiments, in association with the creation of one or more winnings ticket vouchers, the EGM (and/or a server associated with the EGM) communicates data associated with the created winnings ticket vouchers to the POS terminal to store such data associated with the winnings ticket voucher issued. In these embodiments, since the POS terminal handles certain of the non-game play transactions associated with the system of the present disclosure, the POS terminal (and/or a server associated with the POS terminal) operates with various reporting systems, such as an accounting system, to track such transactions.
In certain embodiments, following the user obtaining a winnings ticket voucher, the winnings ticket voucher is redeemable at a POS terminal to realize the funds associated with such a winnings ticket voucher. In certain embodiments, following receipt of a winnings ticket voucher associated with an amount of funds, that amount of funds establishes or otherwise modifies a balance of the POS terminal. In certain such embodiments, the POS terminal is operable to receive multiple winnings ticket vouchers (which each modify the balance of the POS terminal) in association with a single transaction of making funds available to the user.
In various embodiments, following a user obtaining one or more winnings ticket vouchers, a POS terminal enables a user to attempt to redeem such winnings ticket vouchers in exchange for the amount of funds associated with such winnings ticket vouchers. In certain embodiments where the winnings ticket voucher takes the form of a paper winnings ticket voucher and that paper winnings ticket voucher is attempted to be redeemed at a POS terminal, responsive to a user inserting a winnings ticket voucher into a slot, such as a bezel, of an acceptor of the POS terminal (or scanning one or more machine-readable codes (e.g., a bar code and/or a QR code) of the winnings ticket voucher with a scanner of the POS terminal), the POS terminal (and/or a server associated with the POS terminal) attempts to identify the winnings ticket voucher attempted to be redeemed and attempts to validate the received winnings ticket voucher. In certain embodiments where the winnings ticket voucher takes the form of a virtual winnings ticket voucher, following the user scanning, with a scanner of the POS terminal, one or more machine-readable codes (e.g., a bar code and/or a QR code) displayed by the device storing the virtual winnings ticket voucher or following the user selecting, via an interface of the device that stores the virtual winnings ticket voucher, a virtual winnings ticket voucher to redeem, the device storing the virtual winnings ticket voucher communicates with the POS terminal (and/or a server associated with the POS terminal) to identify the winnings ticket voucher attempted to be redeemed and attempts to validate the received winnings ticket voucher.
In certain embodiments, upon the POS terminal (and/or a server associated with the POS terminal) identifying the winnings ticket voucher attempted to be redeemed, the POS terminal (and/or a server associated with the POS terminal) attempts to validate the received winnings ticket voucher. In certain embodiments, such an attempted validation of the received winnings ticket voucher includes determining if any redemption limits or controls are associated with the winnings ticket voucher that prevent the validation of the winnings ticket voucher in association with the requested transaction. In one such embodiment, a redemption control pertains to the type of device that may or may not redeem the winnings ticket voucher. In another such embodiment, a redemption control additionally or alternatively pertains to the location where a winnings ticket voucher may or may not be redeemed at. In another such embodiment, a redemption control additionally or alternatively pertains to a value of the winnings ticket voucher that may or may not be redeemed using a particular type of device and/or at a particular location. In another such embodiment, a redemption control additionally or alternatively pertains to an age of the winnings ticket voucher that may or may not be redeemed using a particular type of device and/or at a particular location. In another such embodiment, a redemption control additionally or alternatively pertains to an identity of a holder of the winnings ticket voucher (if known) that may or may not be redeemed using a particular type of device and/or at a particular location.
If the POS terminal (and/or a server associated with the POS terminal) determines, at least partially based on any applicable redemption controls, not to validate the received winnings ticket voucher, the POS terminal (and/or a server associated with the POS terminal) rejects the attempted redemption of the winnings ticket voucher. In these embodiments, the POS terminal returns, if applicable, the winnings ticket voucher to the user of the POS terminal and displays zero, one or more messages regarding the rejection of the received winnings ticket voucher. In certain embodiments, such messages regarding the rejection of the received winnings ticket voucher are provided to the holder of the winnings ticket voucher via any suitable notification mechanism including, but not limited to, the POS terminal, a remote host controlled service window displayed by the POS terminal, a mobile device running a mobile device application, via an email, and/or via a SMS text message.
On the other hand, if the POS terminal (and/or a server associated with the POS terminal) determines, at least partially based on any applicable redemption controls, to validate the received winnings ticket voucher, the POS terminal (and/or a server associated with the POS terminal) updates one or more winnings ticket voucher databases to reflect the redemption of the received winnings ticket voucher. In addition to updating any database to reflect the redemption of the winnings ticket voucher, the POS terminal updates one or more balances to reflect the amount associated with the received winnings ticket voucher. This balance is then providable to the user of the POS terminal upon one or more cashout inputs received by the POS terminal. In one such embodiment, the balance of the POS terminal is exchanged for an amount of cash (or check) provided to the user of the POS terminal. In another such embodiment, the balance of the POS terminal is exchanged for a cashless wagering ticket (in physical or virtual form) provided to the user of the POS terminal. In another such embodiment, the balance of the POS terminal is exchanged for a transfer of an amount of funds to one or more accounts associated with the user (i.e., utilizing one or more pathways of how funds are transferred to the POS terminal from one or more accounts associated with the user in association with the issuance of a gameplay ticket voucher).
In certain embodiments, in addition to or alternative from employing winnings ticket vouchers to transfer funds from an EGM to be paid out at a POS terminal, the system enables a user to interface with the EGM to facilitate a transfer of funds from the EGM to a system account accessible by the POS terminal and the EGM. Such funds are further associated with the user such that upon the user logging into the POS terminal and requesting access to such funds, the system transfers the funds from the account associated with the POS terminal to the balance of the POS terminal. This balance is then providable to the user of the POS terminal upon one or more cashout inputs received by the POS terminal. In one such embodiment, the balance of the POS terminal is exchanged for an amount of cash (or check) provided to the user of the POS terminal. In another such embodiment, the balance of the POS terminal is exchanged for a cashless wagering ticket (in physical or virtual form) provided to the user of the POS terminal. In another such embodiment, the balance of the POS terminal is exchanged for a transfer of an amount of funds to one or more accounts associated with the user (i.e., utilizing one or more pathways of how funds are transferred to the POS terminal from one or more accounts associated with the user in association with the issuance of a gameplay ticket voucher).
It should thus be appreciated that in certain embodiments, the present disclosure relates to a POS terminal that stores a plurality of instructions. In these embodiments, responsive to a receipt of data associated with a winnings ticket voucher associated with a first amount of cashable funds won from a play of a lottery game associated with a game outcome seed selected from a cloud-based server, the instructions the POS terminal modifies a first balance. In these embodiments, responsive to an occurrence of a cashout event, the POS terminal causes a payout of at least the first amount of cashable funds. In certain such embodiment, the winnings ticket voucher is associated with a first amount of non-cashable funds independent of any plays of any lottery games.
It should thus be appreciated that the system of the present disclosure utilizes different components associated with different functions to provide plays of games that employ predetermined game outcomes, such as pull-tab games, in a manner that is both preferable for certain users (in terms of the presentation of such games) and compliant with certain regulatory requirements (in terms of transacting funds associated with such games). Accordingly, in different embodiments, the financial transactions associated with procuring an amount to be wagered (via the subsequent, EGM enabled purchase of predetermined game outcomes) and redeeming any amounts won from the purchased predetermined game outcomes occur at one or more point-of-sale terminals. In these embodiments, while the financial aspects of playing games associated with predetermined game outcomes (e.g., the financial aspects of purchasing certain lottery tickets) is handled via the point-of-sale terminal, the presentation of a predetermined game outcome from a cloud-based CDS server selected game outcome seed occurs at an electronic gaming device. Such a configuration provides a system that enables certain vendors, located in certain jurisdictions where certain types of games (e.g., pull-tab games and/or instant ticket lottery games) are permitted but where certain other types of games (e.g., probability-based games) are prohibited, to offer users the opportunity to procure (through a point-of-sale terminal) a balance of funds to be used to play one type of game (through an electronic gaming machine) presented as one or more of the other types of games.
It should be appreciated that in different embodiments, one or more of: when a game triggering event occurs; which game outcome seed to select from a game outcome seed set; when to retire a game outcome seed set (and start drawing from a new game outcome seed set); which game outcome seed set to select from; how a selected game outcome seed will be displayed; and/or any determination of the present disclosure is/are predetermined, randomly determined, randomly determined based on one or more weighted percentages, determined based on a displayed event, (such as a displayed symbol or symbol combination), determined independent of any displayed event, determined based on a random determination by any server of the present disclosure, determined independent of a random determination by any server of the present disclosure, determined based on at least one play of at least one game, determined independent of any play of any game, determined based on a user's selection, determined independent of a user's selection, determined based on one or more wagers placed (such as a primary game wager or a side wager), determined independent of any wagers placed, determined based on time (such as a time of day or an amount of time elapsed since an occurrence of an event), determined independent of time (such as the time of day or an amount of time elapsed since an occurrence of an event), determined based on an amount of coin-in accumulated in one or more pools, determined independent of an amount of coin-in accumulated in one or more pools, determined based on a status of a user (i.e., a player tracking status), determined independent of a status of the user (i.e., a player tracking status), determined based on one or more other determinations of the present disclosure, determined independent of any other determination of the present disclosure or determined based on any other suitable method or criteria.
It should be further appreciated that any functionality or process of the present disclosure may be implemented via one or more servers (including one or more cloud-based CDS servers or alternatively independent from any cloud-based CDS servers), one or more EGMs, one or more components of an EGM (such as a component of a patron management system supported by or otherwise located inside the EGM), one or more POS terminals, one or more components of a POS terminal (such as a component of a patron management system supported by or otherwise located inside the POS terminal), or a mobile device executing a mobile device application. Accordingly: (i) while certain functions, features or processes are described herein as being performed by an EGM or a component associated with an EGM, such functions, features or processes may alternatively be performed by one or more servers (including, but not limited to one or more cloud-based CDS servers), or one or more mobile device executing a mobile device applications, one or more POS terminals, or a component of a POS terminal, (ii) while certain functions, features or processes are described herein as being performed by one or more mobile device executing a mobile device applications, such functions, features or processes may alternatively be performed by one or more servers (including, but not limited to, one or more cloud-based CDS servers), one or more EGMs, one or more components of an EGM, one or more POS terminals, or one or more components of a POS terminal, (iii) while certain functions, features or processes are described herein as being performed by one or more servers (including, but not limited to, one or more cloud-based CDS servers), such functions, features or processes may alternatively be performed by one or more EGMs, one or more components of an EGM, one or more mobile device executing a mobile device applications, one or more POS terminals, or one or more components of a POS terminal, and (iv) while certain functions, features or processes are described herein as being performed by a POS terminal or a component associated with the POS terminal, such functions, features or processes may alternatively be performed by one or more EGMs, one or more components of an EGM, or one or more servers (including, but not limited to, one or more cloud-based CDS servers).
The above-described embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented in accordance with or in conjunction with one or more of a variety of different types of systems, such as, but not limited to, those described below.
The present disclosure contemplates a variety of different systems each having one or more of a plurality of different features, attributes, or characteristics. A “system” as used herein refers to various configurations of: (a) one or more servers; (b) one or more electronic gaming machines; and/or (c) one or more POS terminals. Thus, in various embodiments, the system of the present disclosure includes: (a) one or more electronic gaming machines in combination with one or more servers; (b) one or more POS terminals in combination with one or more servers; (c) one or more POS terminals in combination with one or more electronic gaming machines; (d) one or more POS terminals, one or more electronic gaming machines, and one or more servers in combination with one another; (e) a single electronic gaming machine; (f) a plurality of electronic gaming machines in combination with one another; (g) a single POS terminal; (h) a plurality of POS terminals in combination with one another; (i) a single server; and/or (j) a plurality of servers in combination with one another. For brevity and clarity and unless specifically stated otherwise, “EGM” as used herein represents one EGM or a plurality of EGMs, “POS terminal” as used herein represents one POS terminal or a plurality of POS terminals, and “server” as used herein represents one server or a plurality of servers.
As noted above, in various embodiments, the system includes an EGM in combination with a server, such as a cloud-based CDS server. In such embodiments, the EGM is configured to communicate with the server through a data network or remote communication link. In certain such embodiments, the EGM is configured to communicate with another EGM through the same data network or remote communication link or through a different data network or remote communication link. For example, the system includes a plurality of EGMs that are each configured to communicate with a server through a data network.
In certain embodiments in which the system includes an EGM in combination with a server, the server is any suitable computing device (such as a server) that includes at least one processor and at least one memory device or data storage device. As further described herein, the EGM includes at least one EGM processor configured to transmit and receive data or signals representing events, messages, commands, or any other suitable information between the EGM and the server. The at least one processor of that EGM is configured to execute the events, messages, or commands represented by such data or signals in conjunction with the operation of the EGM. Moreover, the server includes at least one processor is configured to transmit and receive data or signals representing events, messages, commands, or any other suitable information between the server and the EGM. The at least one processor of the server is configured to execute the events, messages, or commands represented by such data or signals in conjunction with the operation of the server. One, more than one, or each of the functions of the server may be performed by the at least one processor of the EGM. Further, one, more than one, or each of the functions of the at least one processor of the EGM may be performed by the at least one processor of the server.
In certain such embodiments, computerized instructions for controlling any games (such as any primary or base games and/or any secondary or bonus games) displayed by the EGM are executed by the server. In such “thin client” embodiments, the server remotely controls any games (or other suitable interfaces) displayed by the EGM, and the EGM is utilized to display such games (or suitable interfaces) and to receive one or more inputs or commands. In other such embodiments, computerized instructions for controlling any games displayed by the EGM are communicated from the server to the EGM and are stored in at least one memory device of the EGM. In such “thick client” embodiments, the at least one processor of the EGM executes the computerized instructions to control any games (or other suitable interfaces) displayed by the EGM.
In various embodiments in which the system includes a plurality of EGMs, one or more of the EGMs are thin client EGMs and one or more of the EGMs are thick client EGMs. In other embodiments in which the system includes one or more EGMs, certain functions of one or more of the EGMs are implemented in a thin client environment, and certain other functions of one or more of the EGMs are implemented in a thick client environment. In one such embodiment in which the system includes an EGM and a server, computerized instructions for controlling any primary or base games displayed by the EGM are communicated from the server to the EGM in a thick client configuration, and computerized instructions for controlling any secondary or bonus games or other functions displayed by the EGM are executed by the server in a thin client configuration.
In certain embodiments in which the system includes: (a) an EGM configured to communicate with a server through a data network; and/or (b) a plurality of EGMs configured to communicate with one another through a data network, the data network is a local area network (LAN) in which the EGMs are located substantially proximate to one another and/or the server.
In other embodiments in which the system includes: (a) an EGM configured to communicate with a server through a data network; and/or (b) a plurality of EGMs configured to communicate with one another through a data network, the data network is a wide area network (WAN) in which one or more of the EGMs are not necessarily located substantially proximate to another one of the EGMs and/or the server. For example, one or more of the EGMs are located: (a) in an area different from an area in which the server is located; or (b) in an area different from the area in which the server is located. In another example, the server is not located in an area in which the EGMs are located. In certain embodiments in which the data network is a WAN, the system includes a server and an EGM each located in a different area, in a same geographic area, such as a same city or a same state. Gaming systems in which the data network is a WAN are substantially identical to systems in which the data network is a LAN, though the quantity of EGMs in such systems may vary relative to one another.
In further embodiments in which the system includes: (a) an EGM configured to communicate with a server through a data network; and/or (b) a plurality of EGMs configured to communicate with one another through a data network, the data network is an internet (such as the Internet) or an intranet. In certain such embodiments, an Internet browser of the EGM is usable to access an Internet game page from any location where an Internet connection is available. In one such embodiment, after the EGM accesses the Internet game page, the server identifies a user before enabling that user to place any wagers on any plays of any wagering games. In one example, the server identifies the user by requiring a user account of the user to be logged into via an input of a unique username and password combination assigned to the user. The server may, however, identify the user in any other suitable manner, such as by validating a player tracking identification number associated with the user; by reading a player tracking card or other smart card inserted into a card reader (as described below); by validating a unique user identification number associated with the user by the server; or by identifying the EGM, such as by identifying the MAC address or the IP address of the Internet facilitator. In various embodiments, once the server identifies the user, the server enables placement of one or more wagers on one or more plays of one or more primary or base games and/or one or more secondary or bonus games, and displays those plays via the Internet browser of the EGM.
The server and the EGM are configured to connect to the data network or remote communications link in any suitable manner. In various embodiments, such a connection is accomplished via: a conventional phone line or other data transmission line, a digital subscriber line (DSL), a T-1 line, a coaxial cable, a fiber optic cable, a wireless or wired routing device, a mobile communications network connection (such as a cellular network or mobile Internet network), or any other suitable medium. The expansion in the quantity of computing devices and the quantity and speed of Internet connections in recent years increases opportunities for users to use a variety of EGMs to play games from an ever-increasing quantity of remote sites. Additionally, the enhanced bandwidth of digital wireless communications may render such technology suitable for some or all communications, particularly if such communications are encrypted. Higher data transmission speeds may be useful for enhancing the sophistication and response of the display and interaction with users.
In certain embodiments, the above-described embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented in accordance with or in conjunction with zero, one or more POS terminals; zero, one or more components of a POS terminal; zero, one or more EGMs, zero, one or more components of an EGM, and/or one or more cloud-based CDS servers. In these embodiments, such POS terminals, components of a POS terminal, EGMs, components of an EGM, and/or cloud-based CDS servers each include a controller including at least one processor.
The at least one processor is any suitable processing device or set of processing devices, such as a microprocessor, a microcontroller-based platform, a suitable integrated circuit, or one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), configured to execute software enabling various configuration and reconfiguration tasks, such as: (1) communicating with a remote source (such as a server that stores authentication information or fund information) via a communication interface of the controller; (2) converting signals read by an interface to a format corresponding to that used by software or memory of the POS terminal, the component of the POS terminal, the EGM, the component of the EGM, and/or the cloud-based CDS server; (3) accessing memory to configure or reconfigure parameters in the memory according to indicia read from the POS terminal, the component of the POS terminal, the EGM, the component of the EGM, and/or the cloud-based CDS server; (4) communicating with interfaces and the peripheral devices (such as input/output devices); and/or (5) controlling the peripheral devices. In certain embodiments, one or more components of the controller (such as the at least one processor) reside within a housing of the POS terminal, the component of the POS terminal, the EGM, the component of the EGM, and/or the cloud-based CDS server, while in other embodiments, at least one component of the controller resides outside of the housing of the POS terminal, the component of the POS terminal, the EGM, the component of the EGM, and/or the cloud-based CDS server.
The controller also includes at least one memory device, which includes: (1) volatile memory (e.g., RAM which can include non-volatile RAM, magnetic RAM, ferroelectric RAM, and any other suitable forms); (2) non-volatile memory (e.g., disk memory, FLASH memory, EPROMs, EEPROMs, memristor-based non-volatile solid-state memory, etc.); (3) unalterable memory (e.g., EPROMs); (4) read-only memory; and/or (5) a secondary memory storage device, such as a non-volatile memory device, configured to store software related information (the software related information and the memory may be used to store various files not currently being used and invoked in a configuration or reconfiguration). Any other suitable magnetic, optical, and/or semiconductor memory may operate in conjunction with the POS terminal, the component of the POS terminal, the EGM, the component of the EGM, and/or the cloud-based CDS server disclosed herein. In certain embodiments, the at least one memory device resides within the housing of the POS terminal, the component of the POS terminal, the EGM, the component of the EGM, and/or the cloud-based CDS server, while in other embodiments at least one component of the at least one memory device resides outside of the housing of the POS terminal, the component of the POS terminal, the EGM, the component of the EGM, and/or the cloud-based CDS server. In these embodiments, any combination of one or more computer readable media may be utilized. The computer readable media may be a computer readable signal medium or a computer readable storage medium. A computer readable storage medium may be, for example, but not limited to, an electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, or semiconductor system, apparatus, or device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. More specific examples (a non-exhaustive list) of the computer readable storage medium would include the following: a portable computer diskette, a hard disk, a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or Flash memory), an appropriate optical fiber with a repeater, a portable compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), an optical storage device, a magnetic storage device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. In the context of this document, a computer readable storage medium may be any tangible medium that can contain, or store a program for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device.
A computer readable signal medium may include a propagated data signal with computer readable program code embodied therein, for example, in baseband or as part of a carrier wave. Such a propagated signal may take any of a variety of forms, including, but not limited to, electro-magnetic, optical, or any suitable combination thereof. A computer readable signal medium may be any computer readable medium that is not a computer readable storage medium and that can communicate, propagate, or transport a program for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device. Program code embodied on a computer readable signal medium may be transmitted using any appropriate medium, including but not limited to wireless, wireline, optical fiber cable, RF, etc., or any suitable combination of the foregoing.
The at least one memory device is configured to store, for example: (1) configuration software, such as all the parameters and settings on the POS terminal, the component of the POS terminal, the EGM, the component of the EGM, and/or the cloud-based CDS server; (2) associations between configuration indicia read from the POS terminal, the component of the POS terminal, the EGM, the component of the EGM, and/or the cloud-based CDS server with one or more parameters and settings; (3) communication protocols configured to enable the at least one processor to communicate with the peripheral devices; and/or (4) communication transport protocols (such as TCP/IP, USB, Firewire, IEEE1394, Bluetooth, IEEE 802.11x (IEEE 802.11 standards), hiperlan/2, HomeRF, etc.) configured to enable the POS terminal, the component of the POS terminal, the EGM, the component of the EGM, and/or the cloud-based CDS server to communicate with local and non-local devices using such protocols. In one implementation, the controller communicates with other devices using a serial communication protocol. A few non-limiting examples of serial communication protocols that other devices, such as peripherals (e.g., a bill validator or a ticket printer), may use to communicate with the controller include USB, RS-232, and Netplex (a proprietary protocol developed by IGT).
As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, aspects of the present disclosure may be illustrated and described herein in any of a number of patentable classes or context including any new and useful process, machine, manufacture, or composition of matter, or any new and useful improvement thereof. Accordingly, aspects of the present disclosure may be implemented entirely hardware, entirely software (including firmware, resident software, micro-code, etc.) or combining software and hardware implementation that may all generally be referred to herein as a “circuit,” “module,” “component,” or “system.” Furthermore, aspects of the present disclosure may take the form of a computer program product embodied in one or more computer readable media having computer readable program code embodied thereon.
Computer program code for carrying out operations for aspects of the present disclosure may be written in any combination of one or more programming languages, including an object oriented programming language such as Java, Scala, Smalltalk, Eiffel, JADE, Emerald, C++, C #, VB.NET, Python or the like, conventional procedural programming languages, such as the “C” programming language, Visual Basic, Fortran 2003, Perl, COBOL 2002, PHP, ABAP, dynamic programming languages such as Python, Ruby and Groovy, or other programming languages. The program code may execute entirely on the user's computer, partly on the user's computer, as a stand-alone software package, partly on the user's computer and partly on a remote computer or entirely on the remote computer or server. In the latter scenario, the remote computer may be connected to the user's computer through any type of network, including a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN), or the connection may be made to an external computer (for example, through the Internet using an Internet Service Provider) or in a cloud computing environment or offered as a service such as a Software as a Service (SaaS).
Aspects of the present disclosure are described herein with reference to flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams of methods, apparatuses (systems) and computer program products according to embodiments of the disclosure. It will be understood that each block of the flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions may be provided to a processor of a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmable instruction execution apparatus, create a mechanism for implementing the functions/acts specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks.
These computer program instructions may also be stored in a computer readable medium that when executed can direct a computer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other devices to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions when stored in the computer readable medium produce an article of manufacture including instructions that when executed, cause a computer to implement the function/act specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks. The computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer, other programmable instruction execution apparatus, or other devices to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer, other programmable apparatuses or other devices to produce a computer implemented process such that the instructions which execute on the computer or other programmable apparatus provide processes for implementing the functions/acts specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks.
In certain embodiments, the at least one memory device is configured to store program code and instructions executable by the at least one processor of the POS terminal, the component of the POS terminal, the EGM, the component of the EGM, and/or the cloud-based CDS server to control the POS terminal, the component of the POS terminal, the EGM, the component of the EGM, and/or the cloud-based CDS server. In various embodiments, part or all of the program code and/or the operating data described above is stored in at least one detachable or removable memory device including, but not limited to, a cartridge, a disk, a CD ROM, a DVD, a USB memory device, or any other suitable non-transitory computer readable medium. In certain such embodiments, an operator (such as a gaming establishment operator) and/or a retail patron uses such a removable memory device in a component of the gaming establishment fund management system to implement at least part of the present disclosure. In other embodiments, part or all of the program code and/or the operating data is downloaded to the at least one memory device of the POS terminal, the component of the POS terminal, the EGM, the component of the EGM, and/or the cloud-based CDS server through any suitable data network described above (such as an Internet or intranet).
The at least one memory device also stores a plurality of device drivers. Examples of different types of device drivers include device drivers for the POS terminal, the component of the POS terminal, the EGM, the component of the EGM, and/or the cloud-based CDS server and device drivers for the peripheral components. Typically, the device drivers utilize various communication protocols that enable communication with a particular physical device. The device driver abstracts the hardware implementation of that device. For example, a device driver may be written for each type of card reader that could potentially be connected to the POS terminal, the component of the POS terminal, the EGM, the component of the EGM, and/or the cloud-based CDS server. Non-limiting examples of communication protocols used to implement the device drivers include Netplex, USB, Serial, Ethernet, Firewire, I/O debouncer, direct memory map, serial, PCI, parallel, RF, Bluetooth™, near-field communications (e.g., using near-field magnetics), 802.11 (WiFi), etc. In one embodiment, when one type of a particular device is exchanged for another type of the particular device, the at least one processor of the POS terminal, the component of the POS terminal, the EGM, the component of the EGM, and/or the cloud-based CDS server loads the new device driver from the at least one memory device to enable communication with the new device. For instance, one type of card reader in the POS terminal, the component of the POS terminal, the EGM, the component of the EGM, and/or the cloud-based CDS server can be replaced with a second different type of card reader when device drivers for both card readers are stored in the at least one memory device.
In certain embodiments, the software units stored in the at least one memory device can be upgraded as needed. For instance, when the at least one memory device is a hard drive, new parameters, new settings for existing parameters, new settings for new parameters, new device drivers, and new communication protocols can be uploaded to the at least one memory device from the controller or from some other external device. As another example, when the at least one memory device includes a CD/DVD drive including a CD/DVD configured to store options, parameters, and settings, the software stored in the at least one memory device can be upgraded by replacing a first CD/DVD with a second CD/DVD. In yet another example, when the at least one memory device uses flash memory or EPROM units configured to store options, parameters, and settings, the software stored in the flash and/or EPROM memory units can be upgraded by replacing one or more memory units with new memory units that include the upgraded software. In another embodiment, one or more of the memory devices, such as the hard drive, may be employed in a software download process from a remote software server.
In some embodiments, the at least one memory device also stores authentication and/or validation components configured to authenticate/validate specified components of the POS terminal, the component of the POS terminal, the EGM, the component of the EGM, and/or the cloud-based CDS server and/or information, such as hardware components, software components, firmware components, peripheral device components, user input device components, information received from one or more user input devices, information stored in the at least one memory device, etc.
In certain embodiments, the peripheral devices include several device interfaces, such as, but not limited to: (1) at least one output device including at least one display device; (2) at least one input device (which may include contact and/or non-contact interfaces); (3) at least one transponder; (4) at least one wireless communication component; (5) at least one wired/wireless power distribution component; (6) at least one sensor; (7) at least one data preservation component; (8) at least one motion/gesture analysis and interpretation component; (9) at least one motion detection component; (10) at least one portable power source; (11) at least one geolocation module; (12) at least one user identification module; (13) at least one user/device tracking module; and (14) at least one information filtering module.
More specifically,
In these embodiments, the EGM 1000 includes a master gaming controller 1012 configured to communicate with and to operate with a plurality of peripheral devices 1022.
The master gaming controller 1012 includes at least one processor 1010. The at least one processor 1010 is any suitable processing device or set of processing devices, such as a microprocessor, a microcontroller-based platform, a suitable integrated circuit, or one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), configured to execute software enabling various configuration and reconfiguration tasks, such as: (1) communicating with a remote source (such as a server that stores authentication information or game information) via a communication interface 1006 of the master gaming controller 1012; (2) converting signals read by an interface to a format corresponding to that used by software or memory of the EGM; (3) accessing memory to configure or reconfigure game parameters in the memory according to indicia read from the EGM; (4) communicating with interfaces and the peripheral devices 1022 (such as input/output devices); and/or (5) controlling the peripheral devices 1022. In certain embodiments, one or more components of the master gaming controller 1012 (such as the at least one processor 1010) reside within a housing of the EGM, while in other embodiments at least one component of the master gaming controller 1012 resides outside of the housing of the EGM.
The master gaming controller 1012 also includes at least one memory device 1016, which includes: (1) volatile memory (e.g., RAM 1009, which can include non-volatile RAM, magnetic RAM, ferroelectric RAM, and any other suitable forms); (2) non-volatile memory 1019 (e.g., disk memory, FLASH memory, EPROMs, EEPROMs, memristor-based non-volatile solid-state memory, etc.); (3) unalterable memory (e.g., EPROMs 1008); (4) read-only memory; and/or (5) a secondary memory storage device 1015, such as a non-volatile memory device, configured to store gaming software related information (the gaming software related information and the memory may be used to store various audio files and games not currently being used and invoked in a configuration or reconfiguration). Any other suitable magnetic, optical, and/or semiconductor memory may operate in conjunction with the EGM of the present disclosure. In certain embodiments, the at least one memory device 1016 resides within the housing of the EGM, while in other embodiments at least one component of the at least one memory device 1016 resides outside of the housing of the EGM. In these embodiments, any combination of one or more computer readable media may be utilized.
The at least one memory device 1016 is configured to store, for example: (1) configuration software 1014, such as all the parameters and settings for a game playable on the EGM; (2) associations 1018 between configuration indicia read from an EGM with one or more parameters and settings; (3) communication protocols configured to enable the at least one processor 1010 to communicate with the peripheral devices 1022; and/or (4) communication transport protocols (such as TCP/IP, USB, Firewire, IEEE1394, Bluetooth, IEEE 802.11x (IEEE 802.11 standards), hiperlan/2, HomeRF, etc.) configured to enable the EGM to communicate with local and non-local devices using such protocols. In one implementation, the master gaming controller 1012 communicates with other devices using a serial communication protocol. A few non-limiting examples of serial communication protocols that other devices, such as peripherals (e.g., a bill validator or a ticket voucher printer), may use to communicate with the master game controller 1012 include USB, RS-232, and Netplex (a proprietary protocol developed by IGT).
In certain embodiments, the at least one memory device 1016 is configured to store program code and instructions executable by the at least one processor of the EGM to control the EGM. The at least one memory device 1016 of the EGM also stores other operating data, such as image data, event data, input data, random number generators (RNGs) or pseudo-RNGs, paytable data or information, and/or applicable game rules that relate to the play of one or more games on the EGM. The at least one memory device 1016 also stores a plurality of device drivers 1042. Examples of different types of device drivers include device drivers for EGM components and device drivers for the peripheral components 1022. Typically, the device drivers 1042 utilize various communication protocols that enable communication with a particular physical device. The device driver abstracts the hardware implementation of that device. In certain embodiments, the software units stored in the at least one memory device 1016 can be upgraded as needed. For instance, when the at least one memory device 1016 is a hard drive, new games, new game options, new parameters, new settings for existing parameters, new settings for new parameters, new device drivers, and new communication protocols can be uploaded to the at least one memory device 1016 from the master game controller 1012 or from some other external device. As another example, when the at least one memory device 1016 includes a CD/DVD drive including a CD/DVD configured to store game options, parameters, and settings, the software stored in the at least one memory device 1016 can be upgraded by replacing a first CD/DVD with a second CD/DVD. In yet another example, when the at least one memory device 1016 uses flash memory 1019 or EPROM 1008 units configured to store games, game options, parameters, and settings, the software stored in the flash and/or EPROM memory units can be upgraded by replacing one or more memory units with new memory units that include the upgraded software. In another embodiment, one or more of the memory devices, such as the hard drive, may be employed in a game software download process from a remote software server.
In some embodiments, the at least one memory device 1016 also stores authentication and/or validation components 1044 configured to authenticate/validate specified EGM components and/or information, such as hardware components, software components, firmware components, peripheral device components, user input device components, information received from one or more user input devices, information stored in the at least one memory device 1016, etc.
In certain embodiments, the peripheral devices 1022 include several device interfaces, such as: (1) at least one output device 1020 including at least one display device 1035; (2) at least one input device 1030 (which may include contact and/or non-contact interfaces); (3) at least one transponder 1054; (4) at least one wireless communication component 1056; (5) at least one wired/wireless power distribution component 1058; (6) at least one sensor 1060; (7) at least one data preservation component 1062; (8) at least one motion/gesture analysis and interpretation component 1064; (9) at least one motion detection component 1066; (10) at least one portable power source 1068; (11) at least one geolocation module 1076; (12) at least one user identification module 1077; (13) at least one user/device tracking module 1078; and (14) at least one information filtering module 1079.
The at least one output device 1020 includes at least one display device 1035 configured to display any game(s) displayed by the EGM and any suitable information associated with such game(s). In certain embodiments, the display devices are connected to or mounted on a housing of the EGM. In various embodiments, the display devices serve as digital glass configured to advertise certain games or other aspects of the venue in which the EGM is located. In various embodiments, the EGM includes one or more of the following display devices: (a) a central display device; (b) a player tracking display configured to display various information regarding a user's player tracking status (as described below); (c) a secondary or upper display device in addition to the central display device and the player tracking display; (d) a credit display configured to display a current quantity of credits, amount of cash, account balance, or the equivalent; and (e) a bet display configured to display an amount wagered for one or more plays of one or more games. The example EGM 2000a illustrated in
In various embodiments, the display devices include, without limitation: a monitor, a television display, a plasma display, a liquid crystal display (LCD), a display based on light emitting diodes (LEDs), a display based on a plurality of organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs), a display based on polymer light-emitting diodes (PLEDs), a display based on a plurality of surface-conduction electron-emitters (SEDs), a display including a projected and/or reflected image, or any other suitable electronic device or display mechanism. In certain embodiments, as described above, the display device includes a touch-screen with an associated touch-screen controller. The display devices may be of any suitable sizes, shapes, and configurations.
The display devices of the EGM are configured to display one or more game and/or non-game images, symbols, and indicia. In certain embodiments, the display devices of the EGM are configured to display any suitable visual representation or exhibition of the movement of objects; dynamic lighting; video images; images of people, characters, places, things, and faces of cards; and the like. In certain embodiments, the display devices of the EGM are configured to display one or more video reels, one or more video wheels, and/or one or more video dice. In other embodiments, certain of the displayed images, symbols, and indicia are in mechanical form. That is, in these embodiments, the display device includes any electromechanical device, such as one or more rotatable wheels, one or more reels, and/or one or more dice, configured to display at least one or a plurality of game or other suitable images, symbols, or indicia.
In various embodiments, the at least one output device 1020 includes a payout device. In these embodiments, after the EGM receives an actuation of a cashout device, the EGM causes the payout device to provide a payment to the player. In one embodiment, the payout device is one or more of: (a) a winnings ticket voucher printer and dispenser configured to print and dispense a winnings ticket voucher associated with a monetary value, wherein the winnings ticket voucher may be redeemed for its monetary value via a cashier, a kiosk, or other suitable redemption system; (b) a gameplay ticket voucher printer and dispenser (which may be the same or different from the winnings ticket voucher printer and dispenser) configured to print and dispense a gameplay ticket voucher associated with, in certain instances, no monetary value but redeemable for an amount of gameplay associated with a committed monetary value; (c) a bill dispenser configured to dispense paper currency; (d) a coin dispenser configured to dispense coins or tokens (such as into a coin payout tray); and (e) any suitable combination thereof. The example EGMs 2000a and 2000b illustrated in
In certain embodiments, rather than dispensing bills, coins, a physical winnings ticket voucher having a monetary value, and/or a physical gameplay ticket voucher having no monetary value, to the user following receipt of an actuation of the cashout device, the payout device is configured to cause a payment to be provided to the user in the form of an electronic funds transfer, such as via a direct deposit into a bank account, a fund management system account, or a prepaid account of the user; via a transfer of funds onto an electronically recordable identification card or smart card of the user; via sending a virtual winnings ticket voucher having a monetary value to an electronic device of the user; or via sending a virtual gameplay ticket voucher having no monetary value (but rather being associated with a committed amount of monetary funds for plays of lottery games) to an electric device of the user.
In certain embodiments, the at least one output device 1020 is a sound generating device controlled by one or more sound cards. In one such embodiment, the sound generating device includes one or more speakers or other sound generating hardware and/or software configured to generate sounds, such as by playing music for any games or by playing music for other modes of the EGM, such as an attract mode. The example EGMs 2000a and 2000b illustrated in
The at least one input device 1030 may include any suitable device that enables an input signal to be produced and received by the at least one processor 1010 of the EGM.
In one embodiment, the at least one input device 1030 includes a payment device configured to communicate with the at least one processor of the EGM to fund the EGM. In certain embodiments, the payment device includes one or more of: (a) a bill acceptor into which paper money is inserted to fund the EGM; (b) a ticket voucher acceptor into which a ticket voucher or a voucher is inserted to fund the EGM; (c) a coin slot into which coins or tokens are inserted to fund the EGM; (d) a reader or a validator for credit cards, debit cards, or credit slips into which a credit card, debit card, or credit slip is inserted to fund the EGM; (e) a user identification card reader into which a user identification card is inserted to fund the EGM; or (f) any suitable combination thereof. The example EGMs 2000a and 2000b illustrated in
In one embodiment, the at least one input device 1030 includes a payment device configured to enable the EGM to be funded via an electronic funds transfer, such as a transfer of funds from a bank account and/or from a fund management system account. In another embodiment, the EGM includes a payment device configured to communicate with a mobile device of a user, such as a mobile phone, a radio frequency identification tag, or any other suitable wired or wireless device, to retrieve relevant information associated with that user to fund the EGM. When the EGM is funded, the at least one processor determines the amount of funds entered and displays the corresponding amount on a credit display or any other suitable display as described below.
In certain embodiments, the at least one input device 1030 includes at least one wagering or betting device. In various embodiments, the one or more wagering or betting devices are each: (1) a mechanical button supported by the housing of the EGM (such as a hard key or a programmable soft key), or (2) an icon displayed on a display device of the EGM that is actuatable via a touch screen of the EGM or via use of a suitable input device of the EGM (such as a mouse or a joystick). One such wagering or betting device is as a maximum wager or bet device that, when actuated, causes the EGM to place a maximum wager on a play of a game. Another such wagering or betting device is a repeat bet device that, when actuated, causes the EGM to place a wager that is equal to the previously-placed wager on a play of a game. A further such wagering or betting device is a bet one device that, when actuated, causes the EGM to increase the wager by one credit. Generally, upon actuation of one of the wagering or betting devices, the quantity of credits displayed in a credit meter decreases by the amount of credits wagered, while the quantity of credits displayed in a bet display increases by the amount of credits wagered.
In various embodiments, the at least one input device 1030 includes at least one game play activation device. In various embodiments, the one or more game play initiation devices are each: (1) a mechanical button supported by the housing of the EGM (such as a hard key or a programmable soft key), or (2) an icon displayed on a display device of the EGM that is actuatable via a touch screen of the EGM or via use of a suitable input device of the EGM (such as a mouse or a joystick). After a user appropriately funds the EGM and places a wager, the EGM activates the game play activation device to enable the user to actuate the game play activation device to initiate a play of a game on the EGM (or another suitable sequence of events associated with the EGM). After the EGM receives an actuation of the game play activation device, the EGM initiates the play of the game. The example EGMs 2000a and 2000b illustrated in
In other embodiments, the at least one input device 1030 includes a cashout device. In various embodiments, the cashout device is: (1) a mechanical button supported by the housing of the EGM (such as a hard key or a programmable soft key), or (2) an icon displayed on a display device of the EGM that is actuatable via a touch screen of the EGM or via use of a suitable input device of the EGM (such as a mouse or a joystick). When the EGM receives an actuation of the cashout device from a user and the user has a positive (i.e., greater-than-zero) credit balance, the EGM initiates a payout associated with the user's credit balance. The example EGMs 2000a and 2000b illustrated in
In various embodiments, the at least one input device 1030 includes a plurality of buttons that are programmable by the EGM operator to, when actuated, cause the EGM to perform particular functions. For instance, such buttons may be hard keys, programmable soft keys, or icons icon displayed on a display device of the EGM that are actuatable via a touch screen of the EGM or via use of a suitable input device of the EGM (such as a mouse or a joystick). The example EGMs 2000a and 2000b illustrated in
In certain embodiments, the at least one input device 1030 includes a touch-screen coupled to a touch-screen controller or other touch-sensitive display overlay to enable interaction with any images displayed on a display device (as described below). One such input device is a conventional touch-screen button panel. The touch-screen and the touch-screen controller are connected to a video controller. In these embodiments, signals are input to the EGM by touching the touch screen at the appropriate locations.
In embodiments including a player tracking system, as further described below, the at least one input device 1030 includes a card reader in communication with the at least one processor of the EGM. The example EGMs 2000a and 2000b illustrated in
The at least one wireless communication component 1056 includes one or more communication interfaces having different architectures and utilizing a variety of protocols, such as (but not limited to) 802.11 (WiFi); 802.15 (including Bluetooth™); 802.16 (WiMax); 802.22; cellular standards such as CDMA, CDMA2000, and WCDMA; Radio Frequency (e.g., RFID); infrared; and Near Field Magnetic communication protocols. The at least one wireless communication component 1056 transmits electrical, electromagnetic, or optical signals that carry digital data streams or analog signals representing various types of information.
The at least one wired/wireless power distribution component 1058 includes components or devices that are configured to provide power to other devices. For example, in one embodiment, the at least one power distribution component 1058 includes a magnetic induction system that is configured to provide wireless power to one or more user input devices near the EGM. In one embodiment, a user input device docking region is provided, and includes a power distribution component that is configured to recharge a user input device without requiring metal-to-metal contact. In one embodiment, the at least one power distribution component 1058 is configured to distribute power to one or more internal components of the EGM, such as one or more rechargeable power sources (e.g., rechargeable batteries) located at the EGM.
In certain embodiments, the at least one sensor 1060 includes at least one of: optical sensors, pressure sensors, RF sensors, infrared sensors, image sensors, thermal sensors, and biometric sensors. The at least one sensor 1060 may be used for a variety of functions, such as: detecting movements and/or gestures of various objects within a predetermined proximity to the EGM; detecting the presence and/or identity of various persons (e.g., users, employees, etc.), devices (e.g., user input devices), and/or systems within a predetermined proximity to the EGM.
The at least one data preservation component 1062 is configured to detect or sense one or more events and/or conditions that, for example, may result in damage to the EGM and/or that may result in loss of information associated with the EGM. Additionally, the data preservation system 1062 may be operable to initiate one or more appropriate action(s) in response to the detection of such events/conditions.
The at least one motion/gesture analysis and interpretation component 1064 is configured to analyze and/or interpret information relating to detected user movements and/or gestures to determine appropriate user input information relating to the detected user movements and/or gestures. For example, in one embodiment, the at least one motion/gesture analysis and interpretation component 1064 is configured to perform one or more of the following functions: analyze the detected gross motion or gestures of a user; interpret the user's motion or gestures (e.g., in the context of a game being played) to identify instructions or input from the user; utilize the interpreted instructions/input to advance the game state; etc. In other embodiments, at least a portion of these additional functions may be implemented at a remote system or device.
The at least one portable power source 1068 enables the EGM to operate in a mobile environment. For example, in one embodiment, the EGM 300 includes one or more rechargeable batteries.
The at least one geolocation module 1076 is configured to acquire geolocation information from one or more remote sources and use the acquired geolocation information to determine information relating to a relative and/or absolute position of the EGM. For example, in one implementation, the at least one geolocation module 1076 is configured to receive GPS signal information for use in determining the position or location of the EGM. In another implementation, the at least one geolocation module 1076 is configured to receive multiple wireless signals from multiple remote devices (e.g., EGMs, servers, wireless access points, etc.) and use the signal information to compute position/location information relating to the position or location of the EGM.
The at least one user identification module 1077 is configured to determine the identity of the current user or current owner of the EGM. For example, in one embodiment, the current user is required to perform a login process at the EGM in order to access one or more features. Alternatively, the EGM is configured to automatically determine the identity of the current user based on one or more external signals, such as an RFID tag or badge worn by the current user and that provides a wireless signal to the EGM that is used to determine the identity of the current user. In at least one embodiment, various security features are incorporated into the EGM to prevent unauthorized users from accessing confidential or sensitive information.
The at least one information filtering module 1079 is configured to perform filtering (e.g., based on specified criteria) of selected information to be displayed at one or more displays 1035 of the EGM.
In various embodiments, the EGM includes a plurality of communication ports configured to enable the at least one processor of the EGM to communicate with and to operate with external peripherals, such as: accelerometers, arcade sticks, bar code readers, bill validators, biometric input devices, bonus devices, button panels, card readers, coin dispensers, coin hoppers, display screens or other displays or video sources, expansion buses, information panels, keypads, lights, mass storage devices, microphones, motion sensors, motors, printers, reels, SCSI ports, solenoids, speakers, thumbsticks, ticket voucher readers, touch screens, trackballs, touchpads, wheels, and wireless communication devices.
As generally described above, in certain embodiments, such as the example EGMs 2000a and 2000b illustrated in
In certain embodiments, the EGM is a device that has obtained approval from a regulatory gaming commission, and in other embodiments, the EGM is a device that has not obtained approval from a regulatory gaming commission.
The EGMs described above are merely three examples of different types of EGMs. Certain of these example EGMs may include one or more elements that may not be included in all systems, and these example EGMs may not include one or more elements that are included in other systems. For example, certain EGMs include a coin acceptor while others do not.
In various embodiments, an EGM may be implemented in one of a variety of different configurations. In various embodiments, the EGM may be implemented as one of: (a) a dedicated EGM in which computerized game programs executable by the EGM for controlling any primary or base games (referred to herein as “primary games”) and/or any secondary or bonus games or other functions (referred to herein as “secondary games”) displayed by the EGM are provided with the EGM before delivery to a venue or before being provided to a user; and (b) a changeable EGM in which computerized game programs executable by the EGM for controlling any primary games and/or secondary games displayed by the EGM are downloadable or otherwise transferred to the EGM through a data network or remote communication link; from a USB drive, flash memory card, or other suitable memory device; or in any other suitable manner after the EGM is physically located in a particular venue or after the EGM is provided to a user.
As generally explained above, in various embodiments in which the system includes a server and a changeable EGM, the at least one memory device of the server stores different game programs and instructions executable by the at least one processor of the changeable EGM to control one or more primary games and/or secondary games displayed by the changeable EGM. More specifically, each such executable game program represents a different game or a different type of game that the at least one changeable EGM is configured to operate. In one example, certain of the game programs are executable by the changeable EGM to operate games having the same or substantially the same game play but different paytables. In different embodiments, each executable game program is associated with a primary game, a secondary game, or both. In certain embodiments, an executable game program is executable by the at least one processor of the at least one changeable EGM as a secondary game to be played simultaneously with a play of a primary game (which may be downloaded to or otherwise stored on the at least one changeable EGM), or vice versa.
In operation of such embodiments, the server is configured to communicate one or more of the stored executable game programs to the at least one processor of the changeable EGM. In different embodiments, a stored executable game program is communicated or delivered to the at least one processor of the changeable EGM by: (a) embedding the executable game program in a device or a component (such as a microchip to be inserted into the changeable EGM); (b) writing the executable game program onto a disc or other media; or (c) uploading or streaming the executable game program over a data network (such as a dedicated data network). After the executable game program is communicated from the server to the changeable EGM, the at least one processor of the changeable EGM executes the executable game program to enable the primary game and/or the secondary game associated with that executable game program to be played using the display device(s) and/or the input device(s) of the changeable EGM. That is, when an executable game program is communicated to the at least one processor of the changeable EGM, the at least one processor of the changeable EGM changes the game or the type of game that may be played using the changeable EGM.
In certain embodiments, in addition to (or alternative from) providing predetermined game outcomes, the system randomly determines any game outcome(s) (such as a win outcome) and/or award(s) (such as a quantity of credits to award for the win outcome) for a play of a primary game and/or a play of a secondary game based on probability data. In certain such embodiments, this random determination is provided through utilization of an RNG, such as a true RNG or a pseudo RNG, or any other suitable randomization process. In one such embodiment, each game outcome or award is associated with a probability, and the system generates the game outcome(s) and/or the award(s) to be provided based on the associated probabilities. In these embodiments, since the system generates game outcomes and/or awards randomly or based on one or more probability calculations, there is no certainty that the system will ever provide any specific game outcome and/or award.
In certain embodiments in which the system includes a server and an EGM, the EGM is configured to communicate with the server for monitoring purposes only. In such embodiments, the EGM determines the game outcome(s) and/or award(s) to be provided in any of the manners described above, and the server monitors the activities and events occurring on the EGM. In one such embodiment, the system includes a real-time or online accounting and gaming information system configured to communicate with the server. In this embodiment, the accounting and gaming information system includes: (a) a user database configured to store user profiles, (b) a player tracking module configured to track users (as described below), and (c) a credit system configured to provide automated transactions.
As noted above, in various embodiments, the system includes one or more executable game programs executable by at least one processor of the system to provide one or more primary games and one or more secondary games. The primary game(s) and the secondary game(s) may comprise any suitable games and/or wagering games, such as, but not limited to: electromechanical or video slot or spinning reel type games; video card games such as video draw poker, multi-hand video draw poker, other video poker games, video blackjack games, and video baccarat games; video keno games; video bingo games; and video selection games.
In certain embodiments in which the primary game is a slot or spinning reel type game, the EGM includes one or more reels in either an electromechanical form with mechanical rotating reels or in a video form with simulated reels and movement thereof. Each reel displays a plurality of indicia or symbols, such as bells, hearts, fruits, numbers, letters, bars, or other images that typically correspond to a theme associated with the system. In certain such embodiments, the EGM includes one or more paylines associated with the reels. The example EGM 2000b shown in
In various embodiments, one or more of the paylines is horizontal, vertical, circular, diagonal, angled, or any suitable combination thereof. In other embodiments, each of one or more of the paylines is associated with a plurality of adjacent symbol display areas on a requisite number of adjacent reels. In one such embodiment, one or more paylines are formed between at least two symbol display areas that are adjacent to each other by either sharing a common side or sharing a common corner (i.e., such paylines are connected paylines). The EGM enables a wager to be placed on one or more of such paylines to activate such paylines. In other embodiments in which one or more paylines are formed between at least two adjacent symbol display areas, the EGM enables a wager to be placed on a plurality of symbol display areas, which activates those symbol display areas.
In various embodiments, the EGM provides one or more awards after a spin of the reels when specified types and/or configurations of the indicia or symbols on the reels occur on an active payline or otherwise occur in a winning pattern, occur on the requisite number of adjacent reels, and/or occur in a scatter pay arrangement.
In certain embodiments, the EGM employs a ways to win award determination. In these embodiments, any outcome to be provided is determined based on a number of associated symbols that are generated in active symbol display areas on the requisite number of adjacent reels (i.e., not on paylines passing through any displayed winning symbol combinations). If a winning symbol combination is generated on the reels, one award for that occurrence of the generated winning symbol combination is provided.
In various embodiments, the EGM includes a progressive award associated with a value component of a predetermined game outcome. Typically, a progressive award includes an initial amount and an additional amount funded through a portion of each wager placed to initiate a play of a primary game. When one or more triggering events occurs, the EGM provides at least a portion of the progressive award. After the EGM provides the progressive award, an amount of the progressive award is reset to the initial amount and a portion of each subsequent wager is allocated to the next progressive award.
As generally noted above, in addition to providing winning credits or other awards for one or more plays of the primary game(s), in various embodiments the EGM provides credits or other awards for one or more plays of one or more secondary games. The secondary game typically enables an award to be obtained addition to any award obtained through play of the primary game(s). The secondary game(s) typically produces a higher level of user excitement than the primary game(s) because the secondary game(s) provides a greater expectation of winning than the primary game(s) and is accompanied with more attractive or unusual features than the primary game(s). The secondary game(s) may be any type of suitable game, either similar to or completely different from the primary game.
In various embodiments, the EGM automatically provides or initiates the secondary game upon the occurrence of a triggering event or the satisfaction of a qualifying condition. In other embodiments, the EGM initiates the secondary game upon the occurrence of the triggering event or the satisfaction of the qualifying condition and upon receipt of an initiation input. In certain embodiments, the triggering event or qualifying condition is a selected outcome in the primary game(s) or a particular arrangement of one or more indicia on a display device for a play of the primary game(s), such as a “BONUS” symbol appearing on three adjacent reels along a payline following a spin of the reels for a play of the primary game. In other embodiments, the triggering event or qualifying condition occurs based on a certain amount of game play (such as number of games, number of credits, amount of time) being exceeded, or based on a specified number of points being earned during game play. Any suitable triggering event or qualifying condition or any suitable combination of a plurality of different triggering events or qualifying conditions may be employed.
In other embodiments, at least one processor of the EGM randomly determines when to provide one or more plays of one or more secondary games. In one such embodiment, no apparent reason is provided for providing the secondary game. In this embodiment, qualifying for a secondary game is not triggered by the occurrence of an event in any primary game or based specifically on any of the plays of any primary game. That is, qualification is provided without any explanation or, alternatively, with a simple explanation. In another such embodiment, the EGM determines qualification for a secondary game at least partially based on a game triggered or symbol triggered event, such as at least partially based on play of a primary game. In various embodiments, after qualification for a secondary game has been determined, the secondary game participation may be enhanced through continued play on the primary game. Thus, in certain embodiments, for each secondary game qualifying event, such as a secondary game symbol, that is obtained, a given number of secondary game wagering points or credits is accumulated in a “secondary game meter” configured to accrue the secondary game wagering credits or entries toward eventual participation in the secondary game. In one such embodiment, the occurrence of multiple such secondary game qualifying events in the primary game results in an arithmetic or exponential increase in the number of secondary game wagering credits awarded. In another such embodiment, any extra secondary game wagering credits may be redeemed during the secondary game to extend play of the secondary game. In certain embodiments, no separate entry fee or buy-in for the secondary game is required. That is, entry into the secondary game cannot be purchased; rather, in these embodiments entry must be won or earned through play of the primary game, thereby encouraging play of the primary game. In other embodiments, qualification for the secondary game is accomplished through a simple “buy-in.” For example, qualification through other specified activities is unsuccessful, payment of a fee or placement of an additional wager “buys-in” to the secondary game. In certain embodiments, a separate side wager must be placed on the secondary game or a wager of a designated amount must be placed on the primary game to enable qualification for the secondary game. In these embodiments, the secondary game triggering event must occur and the side wager (or designated primary game wager amount) must have been placed for the secondary game to trigger.
In various embodiments in which the system includes a plurality of EGMs, the EGMs are configured to communicate with one another to provide a group gaming environment. In certain such embodiments, the EGMs enable users of those EGMs to work in conjunction with one another, such as by enabling the users to play together as a team or group, to win one or more awards. In other such embodiments, the EGMs enable users of those EGMs to compete against one another for one or more awards. In one such embodiment, the EGMs enable the users of those EGMs to participate in one or more gaming tournaments for one or more awards.
In various embodiments, an EGM is configured to communicate with a personal gaming device—such as a smartphone, a tablet computer, a desktop computer, or a laptop computer—to enable tethered mobile game play using the personal gaming device. Generally, in these embodiments, the EGM establishes communication with the personal gaming device and enables the user to play games on the EGM remotely via the personal gaming device. In certain embodiments, the system includes a geo-fence system that enables tethered game play within a particular geographic area but not outside of that geographic area.
In certain embodiments, the EGM is configured to communicate with a social network server that hosts or partially hosts a social networking website via a data network (such as the Internet) to integrate a user's gaming experience with the user's social networking account. This enables the EGM to send certain information to the social network server that the social network server can use to create content (such as text, an image, and/or a video) and post it to the user's wall, newsfeed, or similar area of the social networking website accessible by the user's connections (and in certain cases the public) such that the user's connections can view that information. This also enables the EGM to receive certain information from the social network server, such as the user's likes or dislikes or the user's list of connections. In certain embodiments, the EGM enables the user to link the user's user account to the user's social networking account(s). This enables the EGM to, once it identifies the user and initiates a gaming session (such as via the user inserting the user's player tracking card into an EGM), link that gaming session to the user's social networking account(s). In other embodiments, the EGM enables the user to link the user's social networking account(s) to individual gaming sessions when desired by providing the required login information.
For instance, in one embodiment, if a user wins a particular award (e.g., a progressive award or a jackpot award) or an award that exceeds a certain threshold (e.g., an award exceeding $1,000), the system sends information about the award to the social network server to enable the server to create associated content (such as a screenshot of the outcome and associated award) and to post that content to the user's wall (or other suitable area) of the social networking website for the user's connections to see (and to entice them to play). In another embodiment, if a user joins a multiuser game and there is another seat available, the system sends that information to the social network sever to enable the server to create associated content (such as text indicating a vacancy for that particular game) and to post that content to the user's wall (or other suitable area) of the social networking website for the user's connections to see (and to entice them to fill the vacancy). In another embodiment, if the user consents, the system sends advertisement information or offer information to the social network server to enable the social network server to create associated content (such as text or an image reflecting an advertisement and/or an offer) and to post that content to the user's wall (or other suitable area) of the social networking website for the user's connections to see. In another embodiment, the system enables the user to recommend a game to the user's connections by posting a recommendation to the user's wall (or other suitable area) of the social networking website.
Certain of the systems of the present disclosure, such as EGMs, include certain components and/or are configured to operate in certain manners that differentiate these systems from general purpose computing devices, i.e., certain personal gaming devices such as desktop computers and laptop computers. For instance, EGMs are highly regulated to ensure fairness and, in many cases, EGMs are configured to award monetary awards up to multiple millions of dollars. To satisfy security and regulatory requirements in a gaming environment, hardware and/or software architectures are implemented in EGMs that differ significantly from those of general purpose computing devices. For purposes of illustration, a description of EGMs relative to general purpose computing devices and some examples of these additional (or different) hardware and/or software architectures found in EGMs are described below.
At first glance, one might think that adapting general purpose computing device technologies to the gaming industry and EGMs would be a simple proposition because both general purpose computing devices and EGMs employ processors that control a variety of devices. However, due to at least: (1) the regulatory requirements placed on EGMs, (2) the harsh environment in which EGMs operate, (3) security requirements, and (4) fault tolerance requirements, adapting general purpose computing device technologies to EGMs can be quite difficult. Further, techniques and methods for solving a problem in the general purpose computing device industry, such as device compatibility and connectivity issues, might not be adequate in the gaming industry. For instance, a fault or a weakness tolerated in a general purpose computing device, such as security holes in software or frequent crashes, is not tolerated in an EGM because in an EGM these faults can lead to a direct loss of funds from the EGM, such as stolen cash or loss of revenue when the EGM is not operating properly or when the random outcome determination is manipulated.
Certain differences between general purpose computing devices and EGMs are described below. A first difference between EGMs and general purpose computing devices is that EGMs are state-based systems. A state-based system stores and maintains its current state in a non-volatile memory such that, in the event of a power failure or other malfunction, the state-based system can return to that state when the power is restored or the malfunction is remedied. For instance, for a state-based EGM, if the EGM displays an award for a game of chance but the power to the EGM fails before the EGM provides the award to the user, the EGM stores the pre-power failure state in a non-volatile memory, returns to that state upon restoration of power, and provides the award to the user. This requirement affects the software and hardware design on EGMs. General purpose computing devices are not state-based machines, and a majority of data is usually lost when a malfunction occurs on a general purpose computing device.
A second difference between EGMs and general purpose computing devices is that, for regulatory purposes, the software on the EGM utilized to operate the EGM has been designed to be static and monolithic to prevent cheating by the operator of the EGM. For instance, one solution that has been employed in the gaming industry to prevent cheating and to satisfy regulatory requirements has been to manufacture an EGM that can use a proprietary processor running instructions to provide the game of chance from an EPROM or other form of non-volatile memory. The coding instructions on the EPROM are static (non-changeable) and must be approved by a gaming regulators in a particular jurisdiction and installed in the presence of a person representing the gaming jurisdiction. Any changes to any part of the software required to generate the game of chance, such as adding a new device driver used to operate a device during generation of the game of chance, can require burning a new EPROM approved by the gaming jurisdiction and reinstalling the new EPROM on the EGM in the presence of a gaming regulator. Regardless of whether the EPROM solution is used, to gain approval in most gaming jurisdictions, an EGM must demonstrate sufficient safeguards that prevent an operator or a user of an EGM from manipulating the EGM's hardware and software in a manner that gives him an unfair, and in some cases illegal, advantage.
A third difference between EGMs and general purpose computing devices is authentication—EGMs storing code are configured to authenticate the code to determine if the code is unaltered before executing the code. If the code has been altered, the EGM prevents the code from being executed. The code authentication requirements in the gaming industry affect both hardware and software designs on EGMs. Certain EGMs use hash functions to authenticate code. For instance, one EGM stores game program code, a hash function, and an authentication hash (which may be encrypted). Before executing the game program code, the EGM hashes the game program code using the hash function to obtain a result hash and compares the result hash to the authentication hash. If the result hash matches the authentication hash, the EGM determines that the game program code is valid and executes the game program code. If the result hash does not match the authentication hash, the EGM determines that the game program code has been altered (i.e., may have been tampered with) and prevents execution of the game program code.
A fourth difference between EGMs and general purpose computing devices is that EGMs have unique peripheral device requirements that differ from those of a general purpose computing device, such as peripheral device security requirements not usually addressed by general purpose computing devices. For instance, monetary devices, such as coin dispensers, bill validators, and ticket voucher printers and computing devices that are used to govern the input and output of cash or other items having monetary value (such as ticket vouchers) to and from an EGM have security requirements that are not typically addressed in general purpose computing devices. Therefore, many general purpose computing device techniques and methods developed to facilitate device connectivity and device compatibility do not address the emphasis placed on security in the gaming industry.
To address some of the issues described above, a number of hardware/software components and architectures are utilized in EGMs that are not typically found in general purpose computing devices. These hardware/software components and architectures, as described below in more detail, include but are not limited to watchdog timers, voltage monitoring systems, state-based software architecture and supporting hardware, specialized communication interfaces, security monitoring, and trusted memory.
Certain EGMs use a watchdog timer to provide a software failure detection mechanism. In a normally-operating EGM, the operating software periodically accesses control registers in the watchdog timer subsystem to “re-trigger” the watchdog. Should the operating software fail to access the control registers within a preset timeframe, the watchdog timer will timeout and generate a system reset. Typical watchdog timer circuits include a loadable timeout counter register to enable the operating software to set the timeout interval within a certain range of time. A differentiating feature of some circuits is that the operating software cannot completely disable the function of the watchdog timer. In other words, the watchdog timer always functions from the time power is applied to the board.
Certain EGMs use several power supply voltages to operate portions of the computer circuitry. These can be generated in a central power supply or locally on the computer board. If any of these voltages falls out of the tolerance limits of the circuitry they power, unpredictable operation of the EGM may result. Though most modern general purpose computing devices include voltage monitoring circuitry, these types of circuits only report voltage status to the operating software. Out of tolerance voltages can cause software malfunction, creating a potential uncontrolled condition in the general purpose computing device. Certain EGMs have power supplies with relatively tighter voltage margins than that required by the operating circuitry. In addition, the voltage monitoring circuitry implemented in certain EGMs typically has two thresholds of control. The first threshold generates a software event that can be detected by the operating software and an error condition then generated. This threshold is triggered when a power supply voltage falls out of the tolerance range of the power supply, but is still within the operating range of the circuitry. The second threshold is set when a power supply voltage falls out of the operating tolerance of the circuitry. In this case, the circuitry generates a reset, halting operation of the EGM.
As described above, certain EGMs are state-based machines. Different functions of the game provided by the EGM (e.g., bet, play, result, points in the graphical presentation, etc.) may be defined as a state. When the EGM moves a game from one state to another, the EGM stores critical data regarding the game software in a custom non-volatile memory subsystem. This ensures that the user's wager and credits are preserved and to minimize potential disputes in the event of a malfunction on the EGM. In general, the EGM does not advance from a first state to a second state until critical information that enables the first state to be reconstructed has been stored. This feature enables the EGM to recover operation to the current state of play in the event of a malfunction, loss of power, etc. that occurred just before the malfunction. In at least one embodiment, the EGM is configured to store such critical information using atomic transactions.
Generally, an atomic operation in computer science refers to a set of operations that can be combined so that they appear to the rest of the system to be a single operation with only two possible outcomes: success or failure. As related to data storage, an atomic transaction may be characterized as series of database operations which either all occur, or all do not occur. A guarantee of atomicity prevents updates to the database occurring only partially, which can result in data corruption.
To ensure the success of atomic transactions relating to critical information to be stored in the EGM memory before a failure event (e.g., malfunction, loss of power, etc.), memory that includes one or more of the following criteria be used: direct memory access capability; data read/write capability which meets or exceeds minimum read/write access characteristics (such as at least 5.08 Mbytes/sec (Read) and/or at least 38.0 Mbytes/sec (Write)). Memory devices that meet or exceed the above criteria may be referred to as “fault-tolerant” memory devices.
Typically, battery-backed RAM devices may be configured to function as fault-tolerant devices according to the above criteria, whereas flash RAM and/or disk drive memory are typically not configurable to function as fault-tolerant devices according to the above criteria. Accordingly, battery-backed RAM devices are typically used to preserve EGM critical data, although other types of non-volatile memory devices may be employed. These memory devices are typically not used in typical general purpose computing devices.
Thus, in at least one embodiment, the EGM is configured to store critical information in fault-tolerant memory (e.g., battery-backed RAM devices) using atomic transactions. Further, in at least one embodiment, the fault-tolerant memory is able to successfully complete all desired atomic transactions (e.g., relating to the storage of EGM critical information) within a time period of 200 milliseconds or less. In at least one embodiment, the time period of 200 milliseconds represents a maximum amount of time for which sufficient power may be available to the various EGM components after a power outage event has occurred at the EGM.
As described previously, the EGM may not advance from a first state to a second state until critical information that enables the first state to be reconstructed has been atomically stored. After the state of the EGM is restored during the play of a game of chance, game play may resume and the game may be completed in a manner that is no different than if the malfunction had not occurred. Thus, for example, when a malfunction occurs during a game of chance, the EGM may be restored to a state in the game of chance just before when the malfunction occurred. The restored state may include metering information and graphical information that was displayed on the EGM in the state before the malfunction. For example, when the malfunction occurs during the play of a card game after the cards have been dealt, the EGM may be restored with the cards that were previously displayed as part of the card game. As another example, a bonus game may be triggered during the play of a game of chance in which a user is required to make a number of selections on a video display screen. When a malfunction has occurred after the user has made one or more selections, the EGM may be restored to a state that shows the graphical presentation just before the malfunction including an indication of selections that have already been made by the user. In general, the EGM may be restored to any state in a plurality of states that occur in the game of chance that occurs while the game of chance is played or to states that occur between the play of a game of chance.
Game history information regarding previous games played such as an amount wagered, the outcome of the game, and the like may also be stored in a non-volatile memory device. The information stored in the non-volatile memory may be detailed enough to reconstruct a portion of the graphical presentation that was previously presented on the EGM and the state of the EGM (e.g., credits) at the time the game of chance was played. The game history information may be utilized in the event of a dispute. For example, a user may decide that in a previous game of chance that they did not receive credit for an award that they believed they won. The game history information may be used to reconstruct the state of the EGM before, during, and/or after the disputed game to demonstrate whether the user was correct or not in the user's assertion.
Another feature of EGMs is that they often include unique interfaces, including serial interfaces, to connect to specific subsystems internal and external to the EGM. The serial devices may have electrical interface requirements that differ from the “standard” EIA serial interfaces provided by general purpose computing devices. These interfaces may include, for example, Fiber Optic Serial, optically coupled serial interfaces, current loop style serial interfaces, etc. In addition, to conserve serial interfaces internally in the EGM, serial devices may be connected in a shared, daisy-chain fashion in which multiple peripheral devices are connected to a single serial channel.
The serial interfaces may be used to transmit information using communication protocols that are unique to the gaming industry. For example, IGT's Netplex is a proprietary communication protocol used for serial communication between EGMs. As another example, SAS is a communication protocol used to transmit information, such as metering information, from an EGM to a remote device. Often SAS is used in conjunction with a player tracking system.
Certain EGMs may alternatively be treated as peripheral devices to a communication controller and connected in a shared daisy chain fashion to a single serial interface. In both cases, the peripheral devices are assigned device addresses. If so, the serial controller circuitry must implement a method to generate or detect unique device addresses. General purpose computing device serial ports are not able to do this.
Security monitoring circuits detect intrusion into an EGM by monitoring security switches attached to access doors in the EGM cabinet. Access violations result in suspension of game play and can trigger additional security operations to preserve the current state of game play. These circuits also function when power is off by use of a battery backup. In power-off operation, these circuits continue to monitor the access doors of the EGM. When power is restored, the EGM can determine whether any security violations occurred while power was off, e.g., via software for reading status registers. This can trigger event log entries and further data authentication operations by the EGM software.
Trusted memory devices and/or trusted memory sources are included in an EGM to ensure the authenticity of the software that may be stored on less secure memory subsystems, such as mass storage devices. Trusted memory devices and controlling circuitry are typically designed to not enable modification of the code and data stored in the memory device while the memory device is installed in the EGM. The code and data stored in these devices may include authentication algorithms, random number generators, authentication keys, operating system kernels, etc. The purpose of these trusted memory devices is to provide gaming regulatory authorities a root trusted authority within the computing environment of the EGM that can be tracked and verified as original. This may be accomplished via removal of the trusted memory device from the EGM computer and verification of the secure memory device contents is a separate third party verification device. Once the trusted memory device is verified as authentic, and based on the approval of the verification algorithms included in the trusted device, the EGM is enabled to verify the authenticity of additional code and data that may be located in the gaming computer assembly, such as code and data stored on hard disk drives.
In at least one embodiment, at least a portion of the trusted memory devices/sources may correspond to memory that cannot easily be altered (e.g., “unalterable memory”) such as EPROMS, PROMS, Bios, Extended Bios, and/or other memory sources that are able to be configured, verified, and/or authenticated (e.g., for authenticity) in a secure and controlled manner.
According to one embodiment, when a trusted information source is in communication with a remote device via a network, the remote device may employ a verification scheme to verify the identity of the trusted information source. For example, the trusted information source and the remote device may exchange information using public and private encryption keys to verify each other's identities. In another embodiment, the remote device and the trusted information source may engage in methods using zero knowledge proofs to authenticate each of their respective identities.
EGMs storing trusted information may utilize apparatuses or methods to detect and prevent tampering. For instance, trusted information stored in a trusted memory device may be encrypted to prevent its misuse. In addition, the trusted memory device may be secured behind a locked door. Further, one or more sensors may be coupled to the memory device to detect tampering with the memory device and provide some record of the tampering. In yet another example, the memory device storing trusted information might be designed to detect tampering attempts and clear or erase itself when an attempt at tampering has been detected.
Mass storage devices used in a general purpose computing devices typically enable code and data to be read from and written to the mass storage device. In a gaming environment, modification of the gaming code stored on a mass storage device is strictly controlled and would only be enabled under specific maintenance type events with electronic and physical enablers required. Though this level of security could be provided by software, EGMs that include mass storage devices include hardware level mass storage data protection circuitry that operates at the circuit level to monitor attempts to modify data on the mass storage device and will generate both software and hardware error triggers should a data modification be attempted without the proper electronic and physical enablers being present.
It should be appreciated that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular aspects only and is not intended to be limiting of the disclosure. For example, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In another example, the terms “including” and “comprising” and variations thereof, when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof. Additionally, a listing of items does not imply that any or all of the items are mutually exclusive nor does a listing of items imply that any or all of the items are collectively exhaustive of anything or in a particular order, unless expressly specified otherwise. Moreover, as used herein, the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. It should be further appreciated that headings of sections provided in this document and the title are for convenience only, and are not to be taken as limiting the disclosure in any way. Furthermore, unless expressly specified otherwise, devices that are in communication with each other need not be in continuous communication with each other and may communicate directly or indirectly through one or more intermediaries.
Various changes and modifications to the present embodiments described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art. For example, a description of an embodiment with several components in communication with each other does not imply that all such components are required, or that each of the disclosed components must communicate with every other component. On the contrary a variety of optional components are described to illustrate the wide variety of possible embodiments of the present disclosure. As such, these changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present subject matter and without diminishing its intended technical scope. It is therefore intended that such changes and modifications be covered by the appended claims.
