Programmable magnet-controlled crane game mechanism with remote or local electronic control

The programmable magnet-controlled crane game mechanism addresses limitations of traditional mechanical systems by enabling adjustable coin collection and real-time control, enhancing player engagement and operational flexibility.

EP4732919A1Pending Publication Date: 2026-04-29ORFANIDES CHARALAMBOS
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
EP · EP
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
ORFANIDES CHARALAMBOS
Filing Date
2024-10-25
Publication Date
2026-04-29

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Traditional crane games rely on mechanical components that limit winnings adjustment and lack remote or programmatic control, restricting customization and player engagement.

Method used

A programmable high-powered magnet controlled by an electronic circuit and microprocessor, integrated with a display device, allows for adjustable coin collection and real-time game parameter adjustments via remote or local control.

Benefits of technology

Enables precise and customizable coin collection, enhances player engagement through real-time feedback, and offers centralized management of game parameters across multiple units.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The present invention introduces a crane game mechanism that utilizes a programmable high-powered magnet to collect metal coins, replacing traditional mechanical arms or claws. The magnet's strength and the number of coins that can be collected are controlled via an electronic circuit connected to a computer or a remote / local server. Control parameters are based on data received from the server or an integrated electronic circuit, such as results from a certified Random Number Generator (RNG). This system combines elements of chance with player skill and offers game operators the flexibility to adjust the mechanism's operation remotely or locally. It enhances the player's experience and allows for the management of winnings based on predetermined or random data, providing greater flexibility in installation and operation.
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Description

Background of the Invention

[0001] Traditional crane games rely on mechanical components, such as arms or claws, to collect items like stuffed toys or metal coins. These systems are limited by fixed mechanical operations, which do not allow for the adjustment of winnings and depend primarily on the player's skill. Moreover, conventional crane games lack remote or programmatic control capabilities, restricting operators' ability to customize the player's experience and adjust game parameters in real-time.Summary of the Invention

[0002] The present invention addresses these limitations by introducing a crane game mechanism that uses a high-powered magnet instead of traditional mechanical means. The magnet enables precise and controlled collection of metal coins and is programmable and remotely controllable via a server or locally through an electronic circuit. A display device is integrated into the mechanism to show game results or jackpots generated by an RNG, enhancing player engagement.Detailed Description of the Invention 1. High-Powered Magnet

[0003] Mounting and Functionality: Mounted at the end of a movable crane arm, the high-powered magnet magnetically collects metal coins from a designated surface. Adjustable Strength: The magnet's strength is adjustable through the electronic control system, allowing precise control over coin collection and influencing the game's difficulty level. 2. Electronic Circuit and Microprocessor

[0004] Control Unit: An electronic circuit includes a microprocessor responsible for controlling the magnet's strength. Interface Capabilities: The circuit interfaces with a computer or control device, enabling adjustments to the magnet's operation based on programmed parameters. 3. Control Software

[0005] Software Functionality: Runs on a computer or electronic circuit and manages communication with a remote or local server. Data Reception: Receives data such as the allowable number of coins to be collected, determined by an RNG or preset configurations. Operational Adjustment: Adjusts the magnet's strength and sets the maximum number of coins that can be collected in each game session based on received data. 4. Interface with Server or Local Circuit

[0006] Communication: Interfaces with a remote server via a network or a local server / electronic circuit. Central Management: Allows for central management and programming of the game, ensuring operation according to predetermined parameters. 5. Display Device

[0007] Integration: An integrated display shows game results, jackpots, or other information generated by the RNG. Player Engagement: Provides real-time feedback to the player, enhancing the gaming experience and engagement. Application Examples Casinos

[0008] Dynamic Adjustments: The server adjusts the number of coins a player can win based on RNG data. Enhanced Experience: The display device shows jackpots or other real-time results, offering a dynamic and engaging experience. Amusement Parks and Arcades

[0009] Customized Difficulty: The mechanism can be adjusted for different difficulty levels, tailoring the experience for various age groups or skill levels. Interactive Displays: The display device enhances engagement by showing game results and interactive content. Drawings and Diagrams

[0010] Figure 1: Schematic diagram of the crane game mechanism showing the movable crane arm with the high-powered magnet attached. Figure 2: Block diagram illustrating the electronic circuit and microprocessor connected to the magnet and the control system. Figure 3: Flowchart of the control software operation, including communication with the remote or local server and adjustments based on RNG data. Figure 4: Interface layout between the control system and the server or local controller. Figure 5: Illustration of the integrated display device showing game results or jackpots. Block Diagram Components:

[0011] 1. Power Supply ∘ Provides necessary power to all components in the system. 2. Microprocessor Unit (MPU) ∘ The central processing unit that controls the entire system. ∘ Runs control algorithms and interfaces with other components. ∘ Capable of communicating with a remote server to receive RNG data. 3. Random Number Generator (RNG) ∘ Generates random numbers used to determine operational parameters like magnet strength and coin collection limits. ∘ Controlled by a remote server if required by the client. ∘ Alternatively, can be integrated within the MPU or exist on an electronic circuit board. 4. Control System Software ∘ Software running on the MPU or an electronic circuit. ∘ Programs the magnet's strength. ∘ Determines the number of coins that can be collected by the magnet in each game session. ∘ Processes RNG data received from the remote server or internal RNG. 5. Communication Interface ∘ Facilitates communication between the MPU and the remote server. ∘ Examples: Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Cellular Network. ∘ Handles data transmission for RNG control and other remote commands. 6. Electronic Circuit for Magnet Control ∘ Connected directly to the magnet. ∘ Controls the magnet's strength based on signals from the control system. ∘ Includes amplifiers or driver circuits to handle higher currents. 7. Magnet Control Circuit ∘ Receives processed signals from the electronic circuit. ∘ Adjusts the current supplied to the magnet to control its strength accurately. 8. Magnet ∘ The electromagnetic device being controlled. ∘ Performs the physical action of collecting coins in the game. 9. Feedback System (Optional) ∘ Sensors that monitor the magnet's performance. ∘ Sends real-time data back to the MPU for adjustments. ∘ Can also report performance data to the remote server if needed. 10. Input Interface ∘ Connects sensors or user inputs to the MPU. ∘ Examples: buttons, switches, sensors. Visualization Summary:

[0012] Power Supply → Powers all components. Remote Server (with RNG) ↔ Communication Interface ↔ MPU. MPU → Control System Software → Electronic Circuit for Magnet Control → Magnet Control Circuit → Magnet. Feedback System (from Magnet) → MPU (and possibly to Remote Server ). Input Interface → MPU. Flow of Operation:

[0013] 1. Initialization ∘ The Power Supply energizes all system components. ∘ The MPU control algorithms and establishes a connection with the remote server if required. 2. Data Generation and Retrieval ∘ If RNG is controlled by a remote server: ▪ The Remote Server generates random data using its RNG. ▪ This data includes parameters like magnet strength and the number of coins allowed per game session. ▪ RNG data is sent to the MPU via the Communication Interface. ∘ If RNG is internal: ▪ The RNG within the MPU or on an electronic circuit board generates random data. 3. Control Algorithm Processing ∘ The Control System Software processes the RNG data. ∘ Programs the magnet's operational parameters accordingly. ∘ Sets game session parameters (e.g., coin limits). 4. Signal Transmission ∘ The MPU sends control signals to the Electronic Circuit for Magnet Control. 5. Magnet Strength Adjustment ∘ The Electronic Circuit adjusts signal levels as needed. ∘ The Magnet Control Circuit fine-tunes the current supplied to the Magnet based on these signals. 6. Magnet Operation ∘ The Magnet operates at the programmed strength. ∘ Collects coins as determined by the game session parameters. 7. Feedback Loop (Optional) ∘ The Feedback System monitors magnet performance. ∘ Sends data back to the MPU for real-time adjustments. ∘ Performance data can also be sent to the Remote Server if needed for analytics or further control. ∘ Key Points:

[0014] Random Number Generator (RNG): ∘ Remote Server-Controlled RNG: ▪ Allows centralized control over game parameters. ▪ Facilitates updates and adjustments without physical access to the device. ∘ Internal RNG (Alternative): ▪ Provides autonomy and faster response times. ▪ Reduces dependency on network connectivity. Communication Interface: ∘ Essential for data exchange between the MPU and the Remote Server. ∘ Must be secure and reliable to ensure correct operation. ∘ Handles both incoming RNG data and outgoing performance data. Control System Including Software: ∘ Processes RNG data to determine magnet strength and coin collection limits. ∘ Can adapt to real-time changes based on inputs from the remote server or internal algorithms. Feedback System: ∘ Enhances control precision by providing real-time performance data. ∘ Allows for dynamic adjustments to magnet operation. ∘ Feedback can be utilized by both the MPU and the remote server. System Flexibility: ∘ The design supports both local and remote RNG control. ∘ Clients can choose the configuration that best suits their operational needs. ∘ Offers scalability and ease of updates for widespread deployments.

[0015] By incorporating a remote server-controlled RNG, the system gains additional flexibility and control options: Centralized Control: ∘ Operators can manage multiple devices from a single location. ∘ Simplifies updates to game parameters across all connected units. Dynamic Adjustments: ∘ Real-time data from the Feedback System can inform immediate adjustments. ∘ Enhances user experience by keeping the game engaging and fair. Data Analytics: ∘ Performance data sent to the remote server can be used for analytics. ∘ Helps in understanding user behavior and optimizing game mechanics. Summary

[0016] The present invention provides an improved crane game mechanism that replaces traditional mechanical arms or claws with a programmable high-powered magnet for collecting metal coins. The magnet's strength and the number of coins that can be collected are controlled via an electronic circuit connected to a computer or server, based on data from an RNG or predetermined parameters. This system allows for the customization of the player's experience by combining elements of chance with skill. Operators gain flexibility in managing winnings and game dynamics, either remotely or locally. An integrated display device enhances the gaming experience by showing real-time results or jackpots, providing immediate feedback to the player. The invention is suitable for use in casinos, amusement parks, and arcades, offering increased flexibility and control over the game's installation, operation, and overall player engagement. End of Document

Examples

application examples

Application Examples

Casinos

[0008] Dynamic Adjustments: The server adjusts the number of coins a player can win based on RNG data. Enhanced Experience: The display device shows jackpots or other real-time results, offering a dynamic and engaging experience.

Amusement Parks and Arcades

[0009] Customized Difficulty: The mechanism can be adjusted for different difficulty levels, tailoring the experience for various age groups or skill levels. Interactive Displays: The display device enhances engagement by showing game results and interactive content.

Drawings and Diagrams

[0010] Figure 1: Schematic diagram of the crane game mechanism showing the movable crane arm with the high-powered magnet attached. Figure 2: Block diagram illustrating the electronic circuit and microprocessor connected to the magnet and the control system. Figure 3: Flowchart of the control software operation, including communication with the remote or local server and adjustments based on RNG data. Figure 4:...

Claims

1. A crane game mechanism comprising: ∘ A movable crane arm; ∘ A high-powered magnet mounted on the crane arm for collecting metal coins; ∘ An electronic circuit connected to the magnet for controlling the magnet's strength; ∘ A control system including software running on a computer or electronic circuit for programming the magnet's strength and determining the number of coins that can be collected by the magnet in each game session; ∘ A server or local controller communicating with the control system to provide data that determines the magnet's operational parameters based on a Random Number Generator (RNG); ∘ An integrated display device for showing game results or jackpots generated by the RNG.

2. The crane game mechanism of claim 1, wherein the server is remote and communicates with the control system via a network.

3. The crane game mechanism of claim 1, wherein the magnet's strength is varied based on data received from the RNG to adjust the difficulty and potential winnings.

4. The crane game mechanism of claim 1, wherein the electronic circuit includes a microprocessor that directly adjusts the magnet's strength according to programmed instructions.

5. The crane game mechanism of claim 1, wherein the programming of the number of coins that can be collected is executed via a local server or an electronic circuit integrated into the device.

6. The crane game mechanism of claim 1, wherein the crane arm is movable and controlled by the same software that adjusts the magnet's strength, allowing coordinated movement and magnet control.

7. The crane game mechanism of claim 1, wherein the control software enables remote operation and customization of the player's experience via a network connection.

8. The crane game mechanism of claim 1, wherein the magnet is adjustable to multiple levels of strength depending on specifications set by the control software, providing varying levels of game difficulty.

Citation Information

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