Dual Card Reader EGM for Multi-System Protocol Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electronic gaming machines (EGMs) face challenges in seamlessly integrating with multiple game management systems, such as casino game tracking systems and sports wagering systems, due to differences in communication protocols, leading to complex and costly system modifications.
Innovation Solution
The EGM is equipped with dual card readers and communication interfaces that allow it to communicate with different game management systems using distinct protocols, enabling players to log in to both systems independently without requiring protocol adjustments, using a single or multi-function card for seamless interaction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If an EGM is physically connected to two different game management systems, then the EGM can track player activity in both casino games and sports wagering, but the systems require different communication protocols which makes integration complex and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the communication functionality into separate communication interfaces, with each interface dedicated to a specific game management system and its corresponding protocol. This segmentation allows each interface to be optimized for its specific protocol without requiring the entire system to be redesigned for protocol compatibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The EGM is designed with multiple communication interfaces that can handle different protocols simultaneously, creating a universal platform that can interact with various game management systems. Each interface maintains protocol-specific optimization while the overall system provides multi-system compatibility.
2Ease of manufacture
If communication protocols are changed or one system is convinced to adopt another system's protocol, then integration between systems may be simplified, but this process is time consuming, expensive, and nearly impossible in some instances
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces separate communication interfaces as intermediary layers between the EGM and different game management systems. Each interface acts as a protocol translator or adapter, allowing the EGM to communicate with multiple systems without requiring the systems themselves to change their protocols.
3Device complexity
If a single card reader is used for both game management systems, then device count is reduced, but the player experience becomes frustrating when required to use different cards for different systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple card reading functionalities into a single card reader device that can process different card types and formats. This merging maintains device simplicity while supporting multiple card formats through integrated reading capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The single card reader is designed with universal reading capabilities that can handle various card formats and types used by different game management systems, eliminating the need for players to carry multiple cards while maintaining compatibility with all systems.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates generally to gaming machines, systems, and methods. As an example, a method is disclosed that includes registering a first card read event at a first card reader; in response to registering the first card read event, extracting, with a processor, first card data that includes a first player identification number in a first player identification number format; registering a second card read event at a second card reader; in response to registering the second card read event at the second card reader, extracting, with the processor, second card data that includes a second player identification number in a second player identification number format; enabling, with the processor, a player to login to a first game management system; and providing, with the processor, the second card data to a second communication interface to enable the player to login to a second game management system.