Game Slip Graphic Element Recognition via Image Comparison

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing game slip reading devices require multiple algorithms for different encoding and registration modes, leading to complexity, increased update operations, and the need to know registration methods a priori, making it difficult to introduce new registration modes without updating all devices.

Innovation Solution

A method that compares image portions of the game slip with reference images to recognize graphic elements, using a single image comparison algorithm applicable across various registration modes, without the need for character or shape recognition, allowing integration with decorative elements and reducing recognition error rates.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple reading algorithms are implemented for different encoding and registration modes, then the ability to read various game codes is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to read various game codesVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies a single universal image comparison algorithm that can recognize graphic elements across multiple encoding and registration modes. Instead of implementing separate reading algorithms for each mode (alphanumeric, barcode, position markers, etc.), the system uses one algorithm that compares images against reference images, making the device versatile without increasing complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges multiple reading functions into a single image comparison process. By combining the recognition of different graphic element types (alphanumeric codes, barcodes, position markers, clock marks) into one unified comparison mechanism, the system reduces the number of separate algorithms needed while maintaining the ability to handle various encoding modes

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Reliability

If multiple separate reading algorithms are developed and tested, then the reading accuracy for different modes is improved, but the update operations multiply

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereading accuracyVSAvoidupdate operations
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses a single universal comparison algorithm that can handle all encoding modes. When updates are needed, only the reference images need to be updated, not the entire algorithm. This universal approach reduces update operations from multiple separate algorithm updates to a single reference image update process, making maintenance easier while maintaining high reading accuracy

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Measurement precision

If position markers and benchmarks are used to determine game slip position, then the positioning accuracy is improved, but the graphic elements become less aesthetic

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositioning accuracyVSAvoidaesthetic appearance
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The patent makes graphic elements serve multiple functions: they act as both decorative elements and positioning markers. The same graphic elements used for aesthetic purposes are also used for determining game slip position and orientation, eliminating the need for separate technical markers. This allows the system to maintain positioning accuracy while preserving the aesthetic appearance of the game slip

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent combines decorative graphic elements with technical positioning functions. By merging the aesthetic graphic elements with positioning markers, the system achieves both beauty and functionality without requiring separate elements. The graphic elements serve dual purposes: visual appeal and technical reference for positioning and orientation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

4Area of stationary object

If graphic elements are made smaller to reduce space, then the space utilization is improved, but the recognition reliability decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespace utilizationVSAvoidrecognition reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses reference images that contain the graphic elements at their actual size and appearance. During recognition, the system compares the captured image portion with these reference images, allowing accurate recognition even when the graphic elements are small on the game slip. The reference images serve as accurate copies that preserve the essential characteristics of the graphic elements, maintaining recognition reliability regardless of size

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Data Source

PatentEP2881153B1Method and apparatus for recognising a graphic element inscribed on a game ticket
Publication Date: 2016.07.20 MORPHO
  • EP2881153B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2881153B1 patent drawingFigure 2

AI summary

A method for recognizing a graphic element with a technical function that is printed on a betting slip (10) is based on image comparison. The content of an area (30) of the slip in which the graphic element is printed is compared to reference images. The method is compatible with any method of printing the graphic element on the slip: alphanumeric codes, barcodes, logos, designs that vary depending on the game, etc., while using only a single recognition algorithm. The graphic element that is recognized can be any graphic element with a technical function, including a graphic element containing useful data, such as a game code (3) or a game symbol, or a reference graphic element for determining a position on the slip.