RF Powered Gaming Token with Integrated LED for Instant Authentication

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Current gaming chips and tokens lack effective methods for immediate and readable identification of counterfeit chips, value assignment, and enhanced player experience, with existing solutions relying on fluorescing dyes, transponders, and light-responsive coatings that are limited in discrimination and functionality.

Innovation Solution

A token with a microchip, antenna, and light source, powered by inductive RF energy, which can transmit and receive signals, display visual indicators, and control light patterns for authentication and tracking, allowing for instant visual verification and machine-readable data storage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If fluorescing dyes or light-responsive coatings are used in tokens, then counterfeit detection capability is improved, but the discrimination between different token types and values is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecounterfeit detection capabilityVSAvoiddiscrimination between token types
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies color changes by incorporating light-responsive dyes that fluoresce at different wavelengths when exposed to light. Each token type or value can be assigned a specific fluorescent color or pattern, enabling both counterfeit detection (by verifying the presence of fluorescent response) and precise discrimination (by identifying the specific color or pattern). This resolves the contradiction by using the color property to serve dual purposes: authentication and differentiation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #32Color changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If transponders with data storage are incorporated in tokens, then tracking and identification functionality is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetracking and identification functionalityVSAvoidtoken structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the transponder functionality with the token structure by integrating the electronic chip and antenna directly into the token body. The antenna is formed as a conductive pattern on the token surface, and the microchip is embedded within the token, combining multiple functions (identification, data storage, wireless communication) into a single integrated device. This reduces overall system complexity while maintaining enhanced functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Speed

If a light source is integrated in the token for visual indication, then instant verification capability is improved, but energy consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveverification speedVSAvoidlight source power consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements periodic action by using an LED light source that can be activated in pulses or patterns rather than continuously. The microchip controls the LED to emit light only when needed for verification, such as when the token is presented to a reader or during specific transaction moments. This periodic activation provides instant visual verification when required while minimizing overall energy consumption compared to continuous operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

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

Enables immediate verification of tokens at a distance, enhances security by detecting counterfeits, improves player experience through visual authentication, and supports various applications beyond gaming, including supply chain management and access control.

Implementation Method 1

The token may receive and/or transmit signals in association with an interrogating antenna as is known in the art. The token may be powered passively or actively.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRF energy reception: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

The token may carry a light source which is powered actively, passively or which is initiated by external means.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight emission: Light Emitting Diode

Data Source

PatentEP1934955B1Illuminated token
Publication Date: 2015.10.14 SATO HLDG CORP
  • EP1934955B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP1934955B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4

AI summary

An identification token or label includes a light emitting device powered by and responsive to radio frequency signals to emit light in a predetermined frequency range and in a predetermined pattern. It has application as a gaming token for a casino environment or a medallion for use in monitoring patrons at sporting venues and in various parts of a supply chain.