Shielded RFID Antenna for Gaming Tables
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gaming table RFID tracking systems face interference from electronic equipment and wirings, leading to inaccurate token tracking and potential disruptions in gaming operations, especially in multi-player games like baccarat, and there is a need for a solution that allows for quick changes in table layouts and configurations without disrupting gaming operations.
Innovation Solution
A gaming table design with a shielded RFID antenna system, including a cup shield to protect against electromagnetic interference, and an exchangeable table top insert with pre-formulated shielding paint to prevent detuning and interference, allowing for ergonomic placement of shufflers and bill validators while maintaining RF signal integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If RFID antennas are spaced closely together to accommodate multiple betting options, then device complexity is reduced, but RF signal interference increases causing inaccurate token tracking
Solution Approach 1:
A cup-shaped shield made of conductive material is positioned between the RFID antenna and the table surface to act as an intermediary barrier. This shield blocks electromagnetic interference from reaching the antenna while allowing the antenna to maintain its closely spaced configuration for multiple betting options, thus resolving the contradiction between device complexity and measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The harmful electromagnetic interference is extracted and isolated from the RFID antenna system by introducing the cup shield. The shield captures and contains the interference signals, preventing them from affecting the antenna's ability to accurately track tokens, thereby enabling close spacing without sacrificing tracking accuracy.
2Adaptability or versatility
If electronic equipment and wirings are installed in the table base for chip verification and tracking, then functionality is improved, but electromagnetic interference with RFID antennas increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cup shield serves as an intermediary barrier between the electronic equipment in the table base and the RFID antenna. It allows the electronic equipment to perform chip verification and tracking functions while blocking their electromagnetic emissions from interfering with the RFID antenna's operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The electromagnetic interference generated by the electronic equipment is extracted and contained within the cup shield structure. This isolation allows the equipment to function without compromising the RFID antenna's ability to accurately detect and track gaming chips.
3Adaptability or versatility
If table layouts are changed to provide new gaming experiences, then adaptability is improved, but operational disruption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The table top is segmented into modular components including the felt layout and the RFID antenna assembly. The antenna assembly with its cup shields can be independently removed and replaced, allowing the felt layout to be changed for new gaming experiences while minimizing disruption to the electronic RFID tracking system.
Solution Approach 2:
The table top components are designed with dynamic replaceability, allowing the felt layout to be quickly swapped while maintaining the RFID antenna system's functionality. This dynamic design enables flexible adaptation to new gaming requirements without significant operational disruption.
4Quantity of substance
If numerous gaming tokens are stacked to increase betting capacity, then quantity is improved, but RF signal interference increases causing tracking inaccuracies
Solution Approach 1:
The cup shield acts as an intermediary protective barrier between the stacked gaming tokens and the RFID antenna. It blocks electromagnetic interference generated by the stacked tokens from reaching the antenna, allowing high betting capacity while maintaining accurate token tracking.
Solution Approach 2:
The electromagnetic interference generated by stacked tokens is extracted and contained within the cup shield structure. This allows numerous tokens to be stacked for increased betting capacity without the interference compromising the RFID antenna's tracking precision.
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
The solution ensures accurate tracking of gaming tokens, minimizes disruptions during layout changes, and maintains RF signal performance, enabling efficient and compliant operation of multiple table games with enhanced dealer convenience and security.
Implementation Method 1
a cup shield to protect against electromagnetic interference, and an exchangeable table top insert with pre-formulated shielding paint to prevent detuning and interference
Data Source
AI summary
A gaming table comprises a table top having a top and a bottom surface adapted to receive an exchangeable insert. For instance, the top surface is configured to receive gaming accessories and defines an exchangeable insert bed. A base is connected to and configured to support the table top. A table top exchangeable insert is configured to be located within the exchangeable insert bed, wherein the insert includes a securing structure, for releasably securing the table top exchangeable insert to the table top to provide the ability to conveniently change the insert as desired.