CMOS Card Reader Using FPGA Logic for Real-Time Identification
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current card reading systems in casinos are costly, complex, and often require expensive CCD cameras, which are bulky and power-hungry, making them unsuitable for real-time card rank and suit identification in a compact, efficient manner.
Innovation Solution
A card reading apparatus utilizing a 2D CMOS imaging system with FPGA or ASIC logic circuitry for real-time identification of card rank and suit, employing gray scale data conversion to binary and template matching algorithms, allowing for accurate identification without the need for elaborate image extraction techniques.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If CCD cameras are used for card reading, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of the imaging sensor from CCD to CMOS technology. This parameter change maintains sufficient measurement precision for card identification while dramatically reducing power consumption, device complexity, and cost. The CMOS sensor achieves the required precision through its digital output capability and integration with on-chip processing circuits.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical and optical complexity of CCD-based systems with a simplified CMOS electronic system. By substituting the CCD imaging mechanism with CMOS technology integrated with FPGA/ASIC logic, the system eliminates bulky mechanical components, reduces power requirements, and simplifies the overall device architecture while maintaining identification accuracy.
2Measurement precision
If CCD cameras are used for card reading, then measurement precision is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the power consumption parameter by transitioning from CCD to CMOS sensor technology. CMOS sensors inherently consume significantly less power due to their active pixel architecture and integrated readout circuits, while still providing sufficient precision for card identification through digital signal output and on-chip processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes the high-power CCD imaging system with a low-power CMOS electronic system. This substitution replaces power-hungry mechanical scanning and optical processing with efficient CMOS electronic sensing and digital processing, achieving the required measurement precision at a fraction of the original power consumption.
3Measurement precision
If elaborate image extraction techniques are used, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the processing approach from complex external image extraction to simple on-chip digital logic processing. By integrating FPGA or ASIC circuits directly with the CMOS sensor, the system performs card identification through straightforward digital pattern recognition and logic operations, eliminating the need for elaborate external image processing while maintaining high precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the imaging sensor and processing logic into a single integrated system. The CMOS sensor is directly coupled with FPGA/ASIC circuits on the same chip, combining data acquisition and identification functions. This integration eliminates complex external processing chains and reduces overall device complexity while preserving measurement precision.
4Device complexity
If CMOS sensor with FPGA/ASIC is used, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the precision parameter by designing the FPGA/ASIC logic to work specifically with the CMOS sensor's digital output characteristics. The integrated system uses tailored processing algorithms and logic circuits that are optimized for the CMOS architecture, achieving high identification accuracy without requiring the complex processing chains needed by CCD systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a self-sufficient integrated system where the CMOS sensor performs both imaging and initial processing functions through its built-in digital output and on-chip logic. The FPGA/ASIC circuits are configured to directly interpret sensor output and perform identification, making the system self-contained and eliminating the need for external processing equipment that would add complexity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system provides fast, accurate, and cost-effective real-time identification of card rank and suit, reducing the size and power requirements of the device, making it suitable for integration into mechanized dealing shoes and other card handling devices.
Implementation Method 1
A card reading apparatus utilizing a 2D CMOS imaging system with FPGA or ASIC logic circuitry for real-time identification of card rank and suit
Data Source
AI summary
A method and an apparatus determines at least one of rank or suit of a playing card. The apparatus has at least one two-dimensional complementary metal oxide semiconductor imaging system that provides a signal when playing cards are moved over the system. The signal is a series of gray scale values that are converted into binary values. The sensed data is transmitted to a hardware component that identifies at least one of rank and suit to an external data storage device.