Portable Gaming Controller via Short-Range Wireless Link
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current gaming machines restrict player flexibility due to integrated user input components, which can be uncomfortable for players with disabilities and require network authentication for portable device connectivity, limiting independent pairing between portable computing devices and Electronic Gaming Machines (EGMs).
Innovation Solution
A method and system enabling a portable computing device to establish a short-range wireless communication link with an EGM for gaming control, using a gaming controller application that allows tapping to initiate the link, obtaining a randomly generated associating link code, and utilizing Bluetooth or Wi-Fi protocols for secure communication, independent of gaming networks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If integrated user input components are used in gaming machines, then the machine can provide fixed and reliable control interface, but the player's positional flexibility is restricted and comfort is reduced for players with disabilities
Solution Approach 1:
The gaming machine system now supports multiple control interfaces: traditional integrated buttons and levers, plus portable computing devices (smartphones, tablets) that can connect via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. This multi-functionality allows players to choose the control method that best suits their needs and physical conditions, improving accessibility while maintaining the original control options.
Solution Approach 2:
A portable computing device serves as an intermediary between the player and the gaming machine. The device receives player inputs through its own interface (touchscreen, physical buttons) and transmits these commands to the gaming machine via wireless communication protocols (Bluetooth, Wi-Fi), enabling players with disabilities to interact with the machine from comfortable positions without being constrained by the machine's fixed control layout.
2Reliability
If network authentication is required for portable device connectivity, then the gaming network can maintain security and control, but the pairing process becomes complex and independent direct connection is prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The connection process is segmented into two independent paths: (1) Traditional network-authenticated connections that maintain security through server verification, and (2) Direct peer-to-peer connections using Bluetooth or Wi-Fi that bypass network software for simpler pairing. This segmentation allows both secure networked operation and simplified direct connection to coexist without interfering with each other.
Solution Approach 2:
The network authentication requirement is extracted from the portable device pairing process. The system now allows direct Bluetooth or Wi-Fi pairing between the portable device and gaming machine without requiring network software mediation or server authentication, enabling independent direct connection while maintaining the option for network-authenticated connections when needed.
3Adaptability or versatility
If gaming network control is maintained over portable device connections, then the network company can maximize profits from their products, but flexibility for non-associated applications is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adapts its connection mode based on the application's needs. Third-party applications can utilize the direct Bluetooth or Wi-Fi pairing mode for flexible, independent operation, while the gaming network can switch to network-authenticated mode when requiring control and profit maximization. This dynamic flexibility allows both independent application development and network-controlled operations to coexist.
Data Source
AI summary
An application enabling a player to utilize a portable computing device, such as a Smartphone, to function as a game controller for a gaming machine. The portable computing device is paired with the gaming machine using a pairing based, short range protocol. The portable computing device enables manual user input or use of motion controllers for controlling skill based games in a casino environment. The application can receive a configuration from the gaming machine to replicate or mimic the controls and the gaming images, thus enabling the player to play the game at a short distance from the machine. The player can select an image/theme for integration into the game during play.