Gaming Table Bet Spot Detection Using Optical Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current gaming systems lack efficient methods to detect and manage bets placed on gaming tables, particularly in progressive and proposition bet spots, leading to potential errors and inefficiencies in tracking bets and jackpot management.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a gaming table system with light sensors and LEDs beneath the table layout to detect changes in light intensity when a gaming chip is placed on a bet spot, coupled with an RFID reader and antenna for chip value determination, and a dealer unit for automatic locking and storing of progressive bets, along with a central computer for managing bet information and displaying progressive jackpot values.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual bet tracking methods are used, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision and reliability of bet detection deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical bet tracking with an automated optical detection system. Light sensors positioned beneath the table layout detect changes in light intensity when gaming chips are placed on bet spots, automatically identifying bet placement without manual intervention. This substitution of mechanical tracking with optical sensing improves measurement precision while the modular sensor-LED architecture manages device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service bet detection where the gaming table automatically detects and records bet placement through light sensors and LEDs. When a chip is placed on a bet spot, the light sensor detects the change in light intensity and triggers the associated LEDs to illuminate, providing automatic feedback without requiring dealer or player intervention for detection, thereby improving reliability.
2Productivity
If automated bet detection systems are implemented, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the gaming table into multiple player positions, each with dedicated bet spots, light sensors, and LEDs. This segmentation allows independent detection and management of bets at each position, improving productivity by enabling parallel processing of multiple bets simultaneously. The modular structure manages complexity by localizing functions to specific table regions rather than requiring a centralized complex system.
Solution Approach 2:
The light sensors and LEDs serve multiple functions: detecting bet placement, indicating bet spot status, and providing visual feedback to players. This multi-functionality improves productivity by consolidating detection and indication functions into single components rather than requiring separate systems, thereby managing device complexity while maintaining high betting management efficiency.
3Ease of operation
If light sensors are positioned beneath the table layout, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions light sensors in the vertical dimension beneath the table layout rather than on the surface plane. This dimensional change allows sensors to detect chips from below as chips pass through or rest on the layout, improving ease of operation by enabling detection without interfering with chip placement. The system compensates for manufacturing precision challenges through the use of multiple sensors per bet spot and signal processing algorithms that account for positional variations.
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 enables accurate and efficient detection of bets, automatic management of progressive bets, and real-time tracking of jackpot values, enhancing operational efficiency and security in gaming environments.
Implementation Method 1
A light sensor is associated with each bet spot and is positioned beneath the gaming table layout to detect light intensity through the layout
Implementation Method 2
A plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) are positioned in proximity to and associated with each light sensor. The plurality of LEDs are located beneath the gaming table layout so as to illuminate through the material of the gaming table layout
Data Source
AI summary
The invention generally pertains to a system and method for determining if a player has placed a bet in a bet spot on a gaming table, such as, for example, a main bet spot or a progressive or proposition bet spot. By way of example, the tabletop of a gaming table has a plurality of player positions having one or more bet spots positioned in proximity to each player position on the top surface. The tabletop has a light sensor associated with each bet spot and positioned beneath the gaming table layout to detect light intensity through the layout. A plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) are associated with each light sensor. The plurality of LEDs are located beneath the gaming table layout so as to illuminate through the material of the gaming table layout. More specifically, the LEDs are configured to illuminate through the layout when a gaming chip is detected in the bet spot, which causes a change in the light intensity detected by the light sensor associated with the bet spot because the bet spot is covered by a gaming chip.