Method for communication in machines

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for communication in machines of the type comprising a screen (1), a control unit (2) and an interface, wherein the information is converted into an optically readable code (3), such as a bar code or BIDI code, and is displayed on the screen (1) such that an authorised person can capture same using a suitable device (4).

Description

[0001] DESCRIPTION

[0002] Machine communication procedure

[0003] TECHNICAL SECTOR

[0004] This application relates to a method of communication in machines with a screen, such as arcade machines. It allows for the rapid and secure transmission of information without the need for wiring or using wireless media that could be intercepted by third parties.

[0005] STATE OF THE ART

[0006] The state of the art includes various types of machines that have a series of devices for performing various tasks and a screen. This screen displays operating information for users or technicians. For example, slot and arcade machines. They are often touchscreens that allow the user or technician to interact with the machine.

[0007] Machines often send information over the internet, but this isn't always possible. This means it's impossible to collect information from electronic devices, service terminals, or any other type of machine (in the broadest sense) that stores information. However, this information can be important for a multitude of purposes, whether service-related, information-related, or vital, and can be sent to a data center for subsequent analysis and the extraction of conclusions that can improve and make our lives easier.

[0008] In these cases, data must be collected by hand with the consequent probability of human error.

[0009] When the technician wants to check the machine's status—error logs, statistics, operating system version, etc.—they must open it and connect a reading device to the machine. This requires operational time and requires having keys for each machine or using a master key, which carries the risk of losing or copying the key and allowing a malicious third party to access the machine's internals. It's also possible to install a wireless communication system, which the technician uses to read the data and give commands to the machine. This system is more advantageous, but a third party can gather information from the machine and decrypt any key used. Therefore, security is not optimal, and a connection time between the technician's device and the machine is still required.

[0010] The applicant does not know of any solution to these problems similar to the invention.

[0011] BRIEF EXPLANATION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] The invention relates to a method of machine communication according to the claims. Its embodiments improve and solve problems in the art.

[0013] The communication procedure is applicable to machines that have a display, a control unit, and an input interface, which may be the display itself. It includes the following steps:

[0014] • Command the control unit to display information by entering commands into the interface.

[0015] • Convert the information in the control unit into an optically readable code.

[0016] • Display the code on the screen.

[0017] • Read the information optically using an external device with a camera.

[0018] Preferably the code includes the encrypted information.

[0019] In a preferred embodiment, the code is displayed on the screen for a predefined, limited time. A different code can be displayed the rest of the time. For example, a web address for an instruction manual, a manufacturer's manual, etc.

[0020] The remainder of the report describes other particular realizations.

[0021] DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0022] For a better understanding of the invention, the following figures are included.

[0023] Figure 1: Diagram of an exemplary embodiment. MODES OF EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION

[0024] Below, a brief description is given of an embodiment of the invention, as an illustrative and non-limiting example thereof.

[0025] The communication method of the exemplary embodiment to be described is based on a machine that has a screen (1 ). The machine is an arcade machine. The machine has a control unit (2) and a series of buttons, levers, and elements for communicating with users or technicians. For example, the screen (1 ) can be touch-sensitive so that the buttons are virtual.

[0026] The procedure begins when a technician or authorized person issues a series of commands that tell the control unit (2) to communicate internal information that is not relevant to the machine's purpose. For example, this may involve pressing parts of the screen (1) in a predetermined order. The information may include an error log, usage statistics, money collected, average game duration, prizes paid, etc., depending on the type of machine.

[0027] The control unit (2) converts this data into an optically readable code (3), such as a QR code, BiDi... so that the technician or authorized person can read it with a portable device (4), such as a mobile phone with a suitable application. The code (3) contains the information, including the machine identification, preferably in encrypted form. The code (3) is displayed for a limited time, such as 10-20 seconds. In this way, the technician or authorized person receives the information on their device (4) without anyone else being able to see it hidden.

[0028] The information displayed can be different so that each authorized person has the information they need. For example, a technician will receive error information. An accountant may receive information on funds raised and potential prizes. Selection can be automatic, based on a schedule, or based on specific orders received.

[0029] The device (4) will be the one that sends the collected information to the central services, either via the Internet or another immediate method or by downloading it at the end of the day. Ideally, the application will confirm to the technician or authorized person that the data has been read correctly and that it has been sent to the server or repository of these central services. The screen (1) can constantly offer a code (3) to users and people nearby, which is harmless most of the time. For example, it can lead to a website of the manufacturer or owner of the machine.

[0030] This system also serves to check or confirm information or terminal configurations, so it may not be necessary to send detailed information to central services. The device (4) will verify that the information read is correct and will only send a confirmation signal to the server.

[0031] The procedure can also be used to activate pre-installed or other functions. For example, the technician prompts the machine to display activation information (game version, token number, etc.) and reads it with the device (4), which returns a command sequence to be entered into the machine to activate the function or game.

Claims

CLAIMS 1- Communication procedure in machines, of the type that has a screen (1), a control unit (2) and an input interface, characterized in that it comprises the steps of: ordering the control unit (2) to display information by entering orders in the interface; converting the information in the control unit (2) into an optically readable code (3); displaying the code (3) on the screen (1); and reading the information by means of an external device (4). 2- Communication procedure in machines, according to claim 1, characterized in that the code (3) comprises the encrypted information. 3- Communication procedure in machines, according to claim 1, characterized in that the code (3) is shown on the screen (1) for a predefined limited time.

Images