Reconfigurable Playing Card Device with Flexible LCD Display
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Solution Overview
Problem
The use of physical playing cards in wagering games is costly and time-consuming due to the need for frequent replacement and maintenance of cards, shufflers, and felt table surfaces, while players prefer traditional cards over virtual displays.
Innovation Solution
A reconfigurable playing card device with a flexible LCD display and support frame, embedded processing, data storage, and communication devices that randomly select and display card images, allowing for automated game outcome determination and reducing the need for physical cards and equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If physical playing cards are used in wagering games, then players prefer traditional cards over virtual displays, but the cost of purchasing, storing, and replacing cards, card shoes, and shuffling devices is significant
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses display devices to create visual copies of playing cards that can be randomly generated and displayed, replacing the need for physical card decks. The system generates digital representations of cards that mimic traditional playing cards, allowing players to interact with virtual copies instead of physical objects.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical shuffling devices, card shoes, and physical card handling systems with electronic random number generation and display technologies. The mechanical processes of shuffling and dealing are substituted with digital algorithms that randomly select and display card images, eliminating the need for physical card manipulation equipment.
2Adaptability or versatility
If physical playing cards and equipment are used, then traditional card games can be played, but a significant amount of time and effort is spent by casino personnel on card management
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables automated card dealing and game outcome determination through embedded processing devices that randomly select card images and communicate game results. The electronic system performs tasks previously requiring human intervention, such as shuffling, dealing, and determining game outcomes, allowing the game to play itself without continuous personnel involvement.
Solution Approach 2:
The display devices and processing systems can support multiple different wagering games using the same hardware platform. The system can be reconfigured to play various card games, eliminating the need for separate physical equipment for each game type and reducing the complexity of managing multiple specialized systems.
3Ease of operation
If felt table surfaces are used, then traditional gaming tables can be set up, but they wear out and must be replaced frequently
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces physical felt table surfaces with electronic display devices that can be updated digitally. Instead of relying on wear-resistant physical materials, the system uses electronic displays that show game layouts, card positions, and betting areas, eliminating the degradation issues associated with physical felt surfaces.
4Adaptability or versatility
If felt table surfaces are used, then traditional gaming layouts are provided, but they are limited to specific games
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses programmable display devices that can dynamically change their configuration to support different game types and layouts. The electronic surfaces can be reconfigured through software to accommodate various betting patterns, game rules, and table layouts, providing adaptability without the complexity of physical reconfiguration.
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 solution reduces operational costs and player interaction complexity by providing a cost-effective, efficient system for managing card games, maintaining game integrity, and enhancing player engagement through interactive displays.
Implementation Method 1
a reconfigurable playing card device, comprising a display device having a peripheral edge and first and second opposing planar sides
Data Source
AI summary
Reconfigurable gaming tables and playing cards, such as card devices including thin, planar display devices, may be in communication with a processing device for randomly selecting card images stored in a data storage device for display on the display devices.