Flush Token Sensor Optical Detection for Gaming Table Fraud Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing table gaming systems face challenges in preventing fraud and ensuring fair gameplay, particularly with side bets, bonus wagers, and jackpot wagers, due to the physical placement of bets on gaming tables.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a token sensor system with paired light radiation emitters and detectors positioned flush with the gaming table surface, allowing for planar detection of tokens and enabling the use of the surface for additional functions like touchscreen displays.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If physical placement of wagers is used on gaming tables, then players can place bets easily, but fraud risk increases due to late placement, alteration, and side bet manipulation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of physical chip placement with an optical sensing system. Token sensors with light sources and photodetectors detect the presence and value of wagering tokens automatically, eliminating the need for manual chip handling and placement. This substitution prevents fraud by automatically recording wagers at the moment they are placed on the table, without requiring human intervention or interpretation.
Solution Approach 2:
The wagering system performs self-service by automatically detecting and recording token placements through the optical sensor network. The system autonomously monitors the table surface, identifies when tokens are placed in betting areas, and communicates this information to the game control system without requiring dealer intervention. This self-monitoring capability ensures accurate wager recording and prevents manipulation.
2Measurement precision
If traditional token sensors are used, then token detection is achieved, but the sensor surface cannot be used for additional functions like displays
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from vertical sensor placement (where sensors protrude above the table surface) to a planar configuration where sensors are integrated flush with the table surface. The optical components are arranged in a two-dimensional plane within the table surface, allowing the top surface to remain flat and available for touchscreen displays and other user interactions while maintaining precise token detection capability through the planar sensor array.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a multi-functional table surface that simultaneously serves as both a token detection interface and a user interaction interface. The same flat surface area can detect wagering tokens through integrated optical sensors while also functioning as a touchscreen display for game information, instructions, and player interactions. This universal surface design eliminates the need for separate sensor housings that would block display functionality.
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
This system effectively prevents fraud by ensuring accurate detection of wagers, enhances gameplay fairness, and allows for the integration of additional features like electronic displays and gesture sensors, improving the overall gaming experience.
Implementation Method 1
Each token sensor includes a plurality of paired light radiation emitters and light radiation detectors. When none of the detectors receive light from their paired emitter, the presence of a token is indicated.
Data Source
AI summary
A token sensor for a gaming table and a related system and method are provided. In a typical configuration, multiple token sensors are positioned at respective locations of a game layout installed above a cushioning layer of the gaming table that covers a top of the gaming table. Top surfaces of the token sensors lie flush with or slightly above the top surface of the game layout. Each token sensor includes a plurality of paired light radiation emitters and light radiation detectors. When none of the detectors receive light from their paired emitter, the presence of a token is indicated. Such planar detection of the presence of a token allows the upper surface of the sensor to be used for other purposes when presence of a token is not expected. Each token sensor may thus include a touchscreen display for the issuance and acceptance of game information and commands.