Virtual Voucher System for Casino Transaction Security
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional casino systems face challenges with overhead costs and security issues related to paper vouchers, including misplacement, theft, and unauthorized redemption, as well as inefficiencies in generating and disposing of physical vouchers.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a distributed casino network that supports virtual vouchers, allowing patrons to manage gaming credits electronically through a system server, kiosks, and gaming machines, using barcode or QR code-based vouchers that can be redeemed via cell phones, with security measures to verify user identity and prevent unauthorized transactions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of substance
If paper vouchers are used for gaming transactions, then patrons can physically hold and transfer value, but overhead costs increase due to printing, distribution, and disposal of physical vouchers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates virtual copies of physical vouchers in the form of digital images or data representations stored on servers. These virtual vouchers can be displayed on mobile devices or printed on demand, eliminating the need to physically handle and dispose of paper vouchers while maintaining the same transactional functionality. The virtual voucher contains all necessary information (voucher ID, monetary value, barcode) to replicate the original voucher's purpose.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of physical paper voucher handling (printing, distribution, physical transfer, disposal) with an electronic/digital system. Virtual vouchers are transmitted and transferred through digital communication channels, eliminating the need for physical materials and reducing overhead costs associated with paper processing.
2Reliability
If paper vouchers are issued to patrons, then transactions can be conducted physically, but security issues arise from misplacement, theft, and unauthorized redemption
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the voucher that can be securely managed through digital means. The virtual voucher system allows for secure storage, tracking, and validation through the server infrastructure, reducing the risks associated with physical voucher misplacement and theft while maintaining the same transactional capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a server-based intermediary system that mediates voucher transactions. The server validates voucher authenticity, tracks redemption status, and manages the voucher lifecycle, providing an additional layer of security that prevents unauthorized redemption and fraud while enabling secure physical or digital voucher usage.
3Loss of substance
If virtual vouchers are implemented, then overhead costs are reduced and security is enhanced, but system complexity increases with distributed networks and electronic management
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal voucher system that can operate in multiple modes (physical paper vouchers, virtual digital vouchers, or hybrid). The server infrastructure and voucher management system are designed to handle both traditional and electronic vouchers through the same platform, reducing the need for separate complex systems while achieving cost savings and security improvements.
Data Source
AI summary
A transaction is facilitated at a business's touchpoint by transmitting from a wireless device (e.g., a patron's cell phone) to a transaction server operated by a transaction-funding business: patron-identifying information for the patron and a touchpoint ID associated with the touchpoint read using the wireless device. The transaction server authorizes the transaction, transmits that authorization to the cell phone and/or the touchpoint business, and the touchpoint business provides goods/services to the patron. In some implementations, the transaction-funding business transfers outgoing funds for the transaction to the touchpoint business and receives incoming funds for the transaction from the patron. In a casino, a patron can use his/her cell phone to purchase gaming credit at a gaming table. The transaction-funding business funds the purchase for the patron without any funds ever residing on or passing through the patron's cell phone.