Networked Gaming System for Off-Property Player Participation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional gaming operations face inefficiencies in staffing and revenue generation due to fluctuations in player participation, particularly in games like poker, where peak and off-peak times lead to underutilization of gaming space and revenue potential.

Innovation Solution

A system and method that link on-property and off-property players through a network, allowing off-property players to participate in multiplayer games, using pre-generated outcomes to ensure fair play and maximize revenue by enabling multiple table participation, thereby increasing the number of players and potential winnings.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If traditional on-property gaming operations are used, then gaming space is utilized during peak times, but gaming space remains underutilized during off-peak times

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegaming space utilizationVSAvoidoff-peak time waste
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extends the gaming environment from a single physical location to multiple dimensions by enabling off-property players to participate remotely via network connections. This allows the same physical gaming tables to serve both on-property and off-property players simultaneously, effectively utilizing gaming space during off-peak hours when physical attendance is low.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The gaming system is designed to serve multiple functions: it accommodates both on-property players at physical tables and off-property players through networked access. The same gaming infrastructure and tables are used for both local and remote players, maximizing the utility of physical gaming assets during all hours of operation.

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

2Productivity

If more players are accommodated in physical gaming rooms, then revenue increases, but gaming space and seating become insufficient during peak times

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverevenue generationVSAvoidgaming space capacity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates virtual copies of the physical gaming experience for off-property players. These players participate in games conducted at physical tables through networked interfaces, effectively multiplying the player capacity beyond physical space constraints. Multiple players can access the same physical table simultaneously through digital interfaces.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

By adding the digital/network dimension to the physical gaming environment, the system accommodates unlimited remote players without requiring additional physical space. The same gaming tables serve both physically present and remotely connected players, exponentially increasing revenue potential.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Productivity

If electronic tables are installed to reduce staffing needs, then operational efficiency increases, but player interaction and game atmosphere may be reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational efficiencyVSAvoidplayer experience quality
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges electronic efficiency with human interaction by using networked electronic systems to connect off-property players with physical tables staffed by dealers. The electronic infrastructure handles remote player interfaces and game management, while physical dealers maintain the social atmosphere and handle on-property players, combining the benefits of both approaches.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

4Productivity

If off-property players are permitted to participate, then revenue potential increases, but verification of player eligibility (age validation) becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverevenue potentialVSAvoidage verification system
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces intermediary mechanisms for age verification, such as requiring players to present identification at physical locations before receiving access codes, or using trusted third-party verification services. These intermediaries bridge the gap between remote participation and physical verification requirements, enabling off-property play while maintaining compliance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS9087435B2System and method for conducting games of skill and/or chance for on-property and off-property players
Publication Date: 2015.07.21 SCIENTIFIC GAMES LLC
  • US9087435B2 patent drawing
  • US9087435B2 patent drawing
  • US9087435B2 patent drawing

AI summary

In one aspect, a multiplayer game format is provided that permits both off-property and on-property players to participate in a multiplayer game that provides awards to a winning player. Such a game format may include rake games which maximize the income of such types of games.