Secondary Lottery Interface for Electronic Gaming Machine Retrofits
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electronic gaming machines have high operating costs due to maintenance requirements, labor costs, and downtime, while features like bill validators and loyalty programs increase player satisfaction but add costs. There is a need for apparatus and methods that reduce operating costs or provide benefits that outweigh additional costs.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a secondary processor with a picture-in-picture interface on gaming devices to enable lottery ticket purchases and play, using a wireless communication interface via a radio candle mount, which can be retrofitted without modifying existing game software, and allowing communication with peripheral devices and remote servers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If maintenance operations are performed on electronic gaming machines, then the machines can be serviced and repaired, but labor costs and downtime increase operating costs
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides maintenance access into two levels: a first level of access for maintenance personnel to access maintenance components, and a second level of access for players to access player components. This segmentation allows routine maintenance to be performed without requiring full machine disassembly or security clearance, reducing both labor costs and downtime while maintaining security for critical components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If bill validators and loyalty program hardware are added to gaming machines, then player satisfaction and repeat business increase, but operating costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The display device serves multiple functions: it displays game information, provides player instructions, shows loyalty program status, and presents maintenance alerts. By making the display universal, the system adds versatility without requiring separate dedicated hardware for each function, thereby increasing adaptability while controlling device complexity and operating costs.
Solution Approach 2:
Players can perform certain functions themselves through the interface, such as viewing their loyalty status, checking game information, and receiving maintenance notifications. This self-service capability reduces the need for additional staff intervention and monitoring hardware, allowing the system to provide enhanced functionality while minimizing the increase in operating costs.
3Reliability
If locked enclosures and security systems are implemented, then unauthorized access to money and software is prevented, but maintenance access becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The security system is segmented into different access levels: a first level that allows maintenance personnel to access maintenance components with appropriate credentials, and a second level that protects critical components such as the game controller and cash handling mechanisms. This segmentation maintains security for valuable components while facilitating easier access for routine maintenance operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The display device acts as an intermediary interface that communicates security status and maintenance requirements to both players and maintenance personnel. It can display security alerts, guide maintenance personnel through authorized access procedures, and provide feedback on system status without compromising the security of locked enclosures. This mediator role simplifies the maintenance process while maintaining security protocols.
Data Source
AI summary
Method and apparatus are described which are used to provide enhanced functionality on gaming devices associated with the play of wager-based games. A secondary processor, separate from a game controller on the gaming device, can be used to provide the enhanced functionality. In one embodiment, the secondary processor can be used to control a display interface on a video display, such as a video display used to play a wager-based game on the gaming device. The display interface can be used to purchase items, such as a lottery ticket, under control of the secondary processor. After purchase, the lottery ticket can be dispensed from the gaming device using a printer. After the lottery ticket is dispensed, it can be reinserted into the gaming device and validated. If any winnings are associated with the lottery ticket, it can be credited to the electronic gaming machine.