Abstract:
A gaming machine having a non-contact user interface and methods for receiving input to the gaming machine using the non-contact user interface are described. The gaming machine described can receive player tracking information associated with a player, where the player tracking information can include personalization information associated with the player. The gaming machine can receive a signal provided by the player at a non-contact interface device. Next, the gaming machine can decode the signal.
Abstract:
A gaming apparatus may comprise a display unit, a value input device, a single-write data storage device, and a controller operatively coupled to the display unit, the value input device and the data storage device. The controller may comprise a processor and a memory, and may be programmed to cause said display unit to generate a game display relating to one of the following games: poker, blackjack, slots, keno or bingo, to communicate data representing operational events on said gaming apparatus to said single-write data storage device, to determine a value payout associated with an outcome of a game, and to issue a ticket voucher comprising at least a portion of said operational event data and said value payout.
Abstract:
A disclosed gaming machine may securely communicate with devices over a public network such as the Internet. The gaming machine utilizes a combination of symmetric and asymmetric encryption that allows a single gaming machine to securely communicate with a remote server using a public network. The secure communication methods may be used to transfer gaming software and gaming information between two gaming devices, such as between a game server and a gaming machine. For regulatory and tracking purposes, the transfer of gaming software between the two gaming devices may be authorized and monitored by a software authorization agent.
Abstract:
Apparatus and methods for administering payouts in gaming machines are disclosed. More particularly, improved techniques for distributing large payouts with minimal interruption of a gaming session at a gaming apparatus are disclosed.
Abstract:
The present invention provides methods and devices for determining the location, identity and age of a user who desires to initiate a gaming session from an uncontrolled environment such as a home, a gaming kiosk or a hotel room. In some implementations, the user's location is determined in part by reference to a database of land telephone lines and corresponding addresses. The location may be verified by reference to a location determined by other methods, e.g., by determining the location of an Internet service provider's network device that is near a user's host device. In other implementations, the user's location is determined by information provided by a cellular telephone network. The user may be asked to input a confirmation number and/or make an oral response during a telephone call to a telephone number associated with the uncontrolled environment. These the oral response may be analyzed to verify the user's identity. The user may also be prompted to make statements verifying his or her identity, age, a maximum amount available for wagering or other statements, which are preferably recorded and stored.
Abstract:
A gaming communication apparatus may include a wireless transceiver and a controller operatively coupled to the wireless transceiver. The controller may be programmed to establish a bidirectional wireless communication link with a gaming apparatus when in proximity to the gaming apparatus, receive a voice command relating to a first gaming function, transmit first gaming function data to the gaming apparatus via the wireless transceiver, and receive data relating to a second gaming function from the gaming apparatus via the wireless transceiver. The gaming apparatus may include a second wireless transceiver and a second controller operatively coupled to the second wireless transceiver. The second controller may be programmed to receive the first gaming function data via the second wireless transceiver, execute a first gaming function based on the first gaming function data, and transmit the second gaming function data to the wireless communication device via the second wireless transceiver.
Abstract:
A disclosed a player tracking unit provides a touch screen display with a touch screen controller integrated into the touch screen sensor assembly. Game service interfaces may be presented on the touch screen display that allow a user to obtain one or more game services. With the touch screen sensor, a user may navigate through the game service interface and supply information required to obtain a game service.
Abstract:
Methods and apparatus are disclosed for providing a bonus award to a gaming player for using a player tracking account associated with a gaming establishment. Provision of a bonus award is based on the access to a player tracking account. Specifically, once a gaming system detects that a gaming player has accessed a player tracking account associated with the gaming establishment, the gaming system can determine whether the player accessed the player tracking account in a manner meeting one or more bonus award criteria. For instance, the bonus award criteria can include accessing a player tracking account within a limited period of time allotted for awarding the bonus award, accessing a player tracking account according to a specified sequence with respect to accesses by other gaming players, or some other criterion. If the player accessed the player tracking account in a manner meeting the bonus award criterion or criteria, then a bonus award is provided to the gaming player for using the player tracking account.
Abstract:
A disclosed a player tracking unit provides a touch screen display with a touch screen controller integrated into the touch screen sensor assembly. Game service interfaces may be presented on the touch screen display that allow a user to obtain one or more game services. With the touch screen sensor, a user may navigate through the game service interface and supply information required to obtain a game service. Types of interfaces provided with the gaming machine include a directions interface for directing the player to a location of interest and providing status information regarding services at a location of interest.
Abstract:
A method and apparatus for providing universal key security in a mechanical key access environment is disclosed. An electromechanical lock is provided for securing an environment, whereby access is permitted through the steps of receiving a key in the lock, reading a first source of indicia from the key, wherein said first source of indicia comprises information or data specific to said lock, reading a second source of indicia, wherein the second source of indicia comprises information specific to the user of the key, and authorizing a use of the key based on both indicia readings. One embodiment involves the use of a biometric device within the key or on or near the lock, with one example of such a device being a fingerprint sensor. Another embodiment involves the use of added information, such as the entry of an individual PIN number by the user of the key.