JP6877322B2 - Use biometrics for purchases - Google Patents

Description

The present disclosure relates to a game system, and more particularly to a game system that uses biometric data to limit access to the game.

Patent Document 1 describes a cashless game system suitable for casinos. The player hands the money and the ID card to the staff of the validation terminal. The clerk stores the ID number and the amount in the memory of the validation terminal. The clerk returns the ID card to the player so that he or she can operate any of the multiple game terminals. When the player selects a game terminal, the game terminal reads the player's ID card. Then, the amount of money is downloaded to the game terminal selected from the validation terminal, and the game terminal becomes playable. When the player wants to stop playing the game terminal completely, he / she presses the cash-out switch of the game terminal. Then, the player presents the staff ID card of the validation terminal, and the validation terminal reads the ID card. A ticket with the card number and amount will be printed and the player will be paid cash on the spot. The printed ticket can be used for reconciliation.

Various network game systems have already been disclosed. For example, Patent Document 2 discloses a computer network that manages a plurality of simultaneously played bingo games including a large number of bingo cards. The computer compares the called bingo number in parallel with the bingo card stored in each computer and reconfirms the winning card. The called number applies to one, many, or all ongoing bingo games. Game times and rules may differ. Bingo cards are distributed over the network according to the number of hits the card requires. A "one-way" computer handles a bingo card that requires another hit, and a "two-way" computer handles a card that requires two hits. Computers in the network also collect statistics on progress towards the winning pattern of Bingo cards. You can change the winning pattern of any game in real time to keep your interest in the game.

Patent Document 3 discloses a gameplay method and device for automating games such as blackjack, poker, craps, roulette, baccarat, and pai gow. Players can continue to play asynchronously, and information about advertising items can be exchanged between the player and the advertiser. In one embodiment, each instance of the game is different from all other game instances at that time. The game does not require a manual dealer, and in one embodiment, it is played in a game facility using a low-cost game machine. The system can also be used to play games on the Internet, interactive cable television networks, etc., where the game controller is at home and communicates with players on free network nodes.

Patent Document 4 discloses an information service and an advertisement providing system that provide an interactive information service accompanied by an interactive advertisement on a communication network such as the Internet or a LAN. The information service may be a game that is played interactively on the network, and the advertisement is communicated between the user and the advertisement network node. Users can be offered a variety of games and / or game tournaments via interactive network communication. Users can respond to advertisements while having fun (eg, in a game) or using other network services.

US Pat. No. 5,265,864 (Patent holder Dickinson, etc.) U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,280,325 (Patent Holder Fisk) US Pat. No. 6,264,560 (Patent holder Goldberg, etc.) US Pat. No. 6,183,366 (Patent holder Goldberg, etc.)

In one embodiment, a game device is provided. The game device includes a display unit and an input device that allows the user to select an input. The gaming device also has a controller with a processor and memory coupled to the processor, coupled with a display unit, an input device, and a biometric device. The controller may be programmed to allow the player to play the game and allow the player to bet. The controller may be programmed to receive biometric data related to the player's gameplay selection and to determine whether to allow the gameplay selection based on the received biometric data. The controller can also be programmed to generate video images related to the game on the display and determine the value payout associated with the outcome of the game.

In another embodiment, a method of facilitating game play via a game device is provided. The method includes accepting a multiplication via a monetary input device. The method may include receiving biometric data related to the gameplay selection of the game and determining whether to allow the gameplay selection based on the received biometric data. The method may further include displaying a video image related to the game on a display unit and determining a value payout associated with the outcome of the game.

Yet another embodiment provides a tangible medium containing machine readable instructions. This tangible medium includes a first code that accepts multiplications via a monetary input device. The tangible medium may include a second code that receives biometric data related to the gameplay selection of the game and a third code that determines whether to allow the gameplay selection based on the received biometric data. The tangible medium may further include a fourth code that displays a video image related to the game on the display unit and a fifth code that determines the value payout associated with the outcome of the game. ..

Other aspects of the invention are described in the claims.

Various embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings briefly described below.
It is a block diagram which shows an example of a game system. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the routine which registers a person who plays a game through a game system. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the routine to log on to a game system. It is a block diagram which shows an example of a registration unit. It is a block diagram which shows an example of a registration unit. It is a block diagram which shows an example of a registration unit. It is a block diagram which shows an example of a registration unit. It is a perspective view which shows an example of a game unit. It is a figure which shows an example of the control panel of an example of the game unit shown in FIG. It is a block diagram which shows an example of a game unit. It is a block diagram which shows an example of an authentication server. It is a block diagram which shows an example of a website server. It is a block diagram which shows an example of a game server. It is a block diagram which shows an example of a network controller. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the routine which acquires the user data registered in a game system. It is a figure which shows an example of the registration screen which can be displayed in one of the registration units. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the routine which acquires the biometric data to be registered. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the routine which operates a game unit. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the routine which acquires the user data which authenticates a user. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the routine which acquires the position data. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the routine which registers a user in a game system. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the routine which checks the position of a game unit. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the routine which checks the biometric data of a user. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the routine which operates a website server. It is a figure which shows an example of the login screen which can be displayed in one of the game units. It is a figure which shows an example of the game selection screen which can be displayed in one of the game units. It is a figure which shows an example of the visual screen which can be displayed during execution of a poker routine. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a poker routine. It is a figure which shows an example of the visual screen which can be displayed during execution of a blackjack routine. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a blackjack routine. It is a figure which shows an example of the visual screen which can be displayed during execution of a slot routine. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a slot routine. It is a figure which shows an example of the visual screen which can be displayed during execution of a keno routine. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a keno routine. It is a figure which shows an example of the visual screen which can be displayed during execution of a bingo routine. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a bingo routine.

A number of different embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below, but it goes without saying that the legal scope of the present invention is defined by the wording of the claims described in the claims. The detailed description should be construed as exemplary and all possible embodiments of the invention are described as it is not impractical, if not impossible, to describe all possible embodiments of the invention. Is not listed. Numerous other embodiments could be implemented using either current technology or technology developed after the filing date of the invention. They will fall within the claims that prescribe the present invention.

Needless to say, the term "here, the term" ... "means ..." or a similar sentence is used unless explicitly defined herein. There is no intention to explicitly or implicitly limit the meaning of the term beyond the ordinary or ordinary meaning, and such term is based on any description in any column of this specification (except for the wording of the claims). Should not be interpreted in a limited range. As long as the terms in the claims are consistently referred to herein in a single sense, the references are for clarity not to confuse the reader, and the terms in such claims are used as such. It is not intended to be limited to a single meaning.

Finally, the scope of the elements of any claim is not intended to be construed by applying Article 112, paragraph 6 of the US Patent Act.

Game System FIG. 1 shows an embodiment of the game system 10 according to the present invention. Referring to FIG. 1, the game system 10 includes a group of networks 12 of game units 20a, 20b, 20c operably coupled to a network computer 22 via a network data link or bus 24. The network 12 also includes a registration unit 26a that is operably coupled to the network computer 22 and the game units 20a, 20b, 20c via the data link 24. The network 12 is operably coupled to the network 40 via the network link 42. The network 12 is, for example, a wide area network (WAN), a local area network (LAN), a wireless LAN (for example, IEEE802.11x standard), a link according to the Bluetooth® standard, a cellular link, a bidirectional paging link, or the like. is there. The network 40 is, for example, the Internet, WAN, intranet, extranet, LAN, wireless LAN (for example, IEEE802.11x standard), links according to the Bluetooth® standard, cellular links, bidirectional paging links, and the like.

The game system 10 also includes a web server 50 operably coupled to the network 40 via data links 54 and 56, and one anomalous game server 52. The game system 10 also includes an authentication server 58 operably coupled to the network 40 via a data link 60.
The game system 10 further includes game units 20d and 20e operably coupled to the network 40 via the data link 64 and operably coupled to the registration unit 26b via the data link 70. The network 40 includes a plurality of network computers or server computers (not shown). Each of these can be operably interconnected. If the network 40 includes the Internet, data communication may be via any of the data links 42, 54, 56, 60, 64, 66 and 70 via the Internet communication protocol.

The network computer 22, the game unit 20, the registration unit 26, the game server 52, the website server 50, and the authentication server 58 may be physically the same location, or may be in different buildings, cities, states, etc. It may be in different remote locations. For example, the network 12 may be in a casino or hotel and the website server may be in a web hosting company. Continuing with reference to this example, the game server 52 and the authentication server 58 may be in the game company, and the game units 20d and 20e may be in different homes. In addition, the registration unit 26b may be in the notary's office.

In FIG. 1, for the sake of simplicity, the game system 10 is illustrated as having a certain number of game units 20, registration units 26, game servers 52, and the like, but it goes without saying that the number of components used thereof is large. It may be different. For example, although five game units 20 are shown in FIG. 1, the number of game units 20 included in the game system 10 is larger, and may be several hundred or several thousand. As another example, although one game server 52 is shown in FIG. 1, the game system 10 may include a plurality of game servers.

When using biometric data to uniquely identify a person, each of the registration units 26 may include or be operably coupled with a device for obtaining biometric data from that person. For example, the registration unit 26 may include a fingerprint scanning device, an eye scanning device, a face recognition system, a voice analyzer, and the like. In some embodiments, the registration unit 26 is in a controlled environment in which it is possible (to some extent certainty) that the person who has acquired the biometric data is actually the person himself / herself. For example, registration units 26 or 28 are in a casino but can only be operated by employees of that casino.

Each game unit 20 may also include a device for acquiring biometric data from a person or may be operably coupled to that device. This device corresponds to the biometric device used by the registration unit 26. For example, if the registration unit 26 includes or is operably coupled to the fingerprint scanning device, then at least a portion of the game unit 20 must include or operably coupled to the fingerprint scanning device.

Further, each game unit 20 also includes or is operably coupled with a position sensor that acquires the geographical position of the game unit. For example, the game unit 20 includes a wide area positioning system such as a GPS device and a Loran-C device. The game unit 20 also includes a local area positioning system such as a building location identification system.

The network computer is a server computer and is used to collect and analyze data regarding the operation of the game unit 20. For example, the network computer 22 plays with each game unit 20 with data indicating the amount and number of bets made by each game unit 20, data indicating how much each game unit 20 paid at the time of winning, and data indicating how much each game unit 20 paid. The identification information of the player and the data related to the game tendency are continuously received from each game unit 20.

The illustrated network 12 includes one network computer 22 and four game units 20, but it goes without saying that the number of computers and game units may be different. For example, the network 12 may include a plurality of network computers 22 and tens or hundreds of game units 20. All of these may be interconnected via the data link 24.

Data links 24, 42, 54, 56, 60, 64, 66 and 70 are dedicated hardware links, wireless links, relay computers (eg, servers, gateways, network bridges, wireless access points, cellular / pager base stations, respectively). Etc.) including.

Needless to say, the game system 10 does not have to include all the components shown in FIG. An example of the game system 10 including a part of the components shown in FIG. 1 will be described below.

Indoor Game In one scenario, the game system 10 includes a network 12 (eg, a network computer 22, a game unit 20a, 20b, 20c, and a registration unit 26a connected by a network data link 24). As an example, the game units 20a, 20b, 20c are in different rooms of a casino hotel, the registration unit 26a is at the reception of the hotel, and the network computer 22 is in a safe place at the hotel. In another scenario, the game system 10 may include an authentication server 58 coupled to the network via the network 40 and the data link 42. These gaming systems can be used for "in-room gaming" where users can personally play betting games through game units in their own room at the hotel. In yet another scenario of internet gaming, the game system 10 includes a website server 50, a game server 52, game units 20d, 20e, and registration units 26b coupled via a network 40. As an example, the game units 20d and 20e are personal computers in different homes, and the registration unit 26b is in a casino. The website server 50 is in the company that operates the website, and the game server 52 is in the casino. These components are operably coupled via a network 40, including the Internet. In another example, the gaming system further includes an authentication server 58 operably coupled to the network 40. These gaming systems can be used for "internet gaming" where users can personally play betting games at their hotel home via a personal computer.

Schematic operation During operation, the user registers with the game service using one of the registration units 26. The game service can facilitate the play of various betting games such as poker, blackjack, slots, bingo, keno, etc. through the game unit 20. FIG. 2 is a simplified flow diagram showing a possible embodiment of the method of registering to the game service. In block 78, the user transmits personal information such as name and birthday. At block 80, at least a part of the personal information is verified. For example, when the registration unit 26 is located in the casino, a casino employee checks the user's driver's license, identification card, passport, etc. to confirm personal information.

At block 82, the user transmits biometric data via the registration unit 26. For example, when the registration unit 26 is combined with a fingerprint scanning device, the fingerprint scanning device scans the user's fingerprint and generates digital data representing the fingerprint. In block 84, the personal information transmitted in block 78 and the biometric data transmitted in block 82 are stored. This information may be stored in, for example, a smart card, a memory, a database, or the like. In the case of a game system including the authentication server 58, the authentication server 58 is configured to receive and store personal information and biometric data received from the registration unit 26.

After registering for the game service, the user can "log on" through the game unit 20 and play the betting game. FIG. 3 is a simplified flow diagram showing a possible embodiment of a method of logging on to a game service operated by the game system 10. At block 86, the position of the game unit 20 that the user is trying to "log on" to is determined. For example, when the game unit 20 includes a position detecting device, the position of the game unit 20 can be determined by examining the position data generated by the position detecting device. In block 87, it is determined whether the position of the game unit 20 is a place where the game is permitted to play. For example, betting games are legally permitted only in certain jurisdictions. Thus, if the game unit (eg, a laptop computer) is in a jurisdiction where the betting game is not legally permitted, the user will not be granted access to the game. As another example, users may be allowed to gamble with a mobile game unit 20 (eg, a personal digital assistant with wireless connectivity) without a building or a collection thereof (eg, a casino and a hotel). In this way, when the game unit is taken out of the building (for example, a parking lot), the user is not allowed to access the game. Blocks 86 and 87 may be omitted if location-based access restrictions are not required.

At block 88, the user is prompted by the game unit 20 to transmit biometric data. For example, in the case of an embodiment in which the game unit 20 is combined with a fingerprint scanning device, the game unit 20 displays a screen or window prompting the user to scan his / her fingerprint. At block 90, the user uses the game unit 20 to transmit biometric data. In an embodiment in which the game unit 20 is combined with a fingerprint scanning device, the user's fingerprint is scanned.

Next, in block 92, the biometric data acquired in block 90 is compared with the previously acquired biometric data of the registered user of the game service (eg, via the registration unit 26). In the embodiment in which the game unit 20 is combined with the fingerprint scanning device, the fingerprint data acquired in the block 90 is compared with the fingerprint data of the registered user. If the biometric data do not match, the user will not be allowed to play the game. When the biometric data matches the registered user, block 94 determines whether the user is allowed to play the game. For example, if the user is too young to play the betting game due to previously acquired personal data (eg, via registration unit 26), the user will not be allowed to play. Similarly, if the user is on the "blacklist" of a person who is not allowed to play the game of the game service, the user is not allowed to play. At block 96, the user is allowed to play the game through the game unit 20. Block 94 may be omitted if such access restrictions are not desired. For example, minors do not have to register from the beginning.

Registration Units Each registration unit 26 may be installed in a casino, a hotel, a notary public's office, or the like. Typically, the registration unit 26 is installed in a controlled environment so that the data acquired through the registration unit 26 can be guaranteed to be accurate at a certain level. As an example, the registration unit 26 is located in a casino and cannot be operated by the general public. Of course, casino employees can operate the registration unit 26. When a person attempts to register for a game service, a casino employee confirms the person's personal information, for example with a driver's license, ID card, passport, etc., and then inputs it using the registration unit 26. .. In addition, the casino employee operates the registration unit 26 to acquire the biometric data of the person. For example, if the registration unit includes a fingerprint scanning device, the casino employee operates the registration unit 26 to instruct the person to obtain data representing the person's fingerprint.

In other embodiments, the user may send personal information unsupervised. For example, request the user to mail a copy of a driver's license, passport, etc. to confirm the information. Depending on the embodiment, it is not necessary to confirm the personal information.

Each registration unit is a smart terminal such as a personal computer, laptop computer, personal digital assistant (PDA), or a dumb terminal that does not include a controller. FIG. 4A is a block diagram showing a possible embodiment of the registration unit 26. One of the registration units 26 will be described below with reference to FIG. 4A. Needless to say, the configuration of the registration units 26 may be different, and each registration unit 26 has a different design from the other registration units 26. It may be configured.

FIG. 4A is a simplified block diagram showing a plurality of components incorporated into one embodiment of the registration unit. The registration unit 100A includes a controller 101. The controller 101 includes a program memory 102, a microcontroller or microprocessor (MP) 104, a random access memory (RAM) 106, and an input / output (I / O) circuit 108, which are via the address / data bus 110. It is interconnected. Needless to say, the controller 101 may include a plurality of microprocessors 104, although only one microprocessor 104 has been shown. Similarly, the memory of the controller 101 includes a plurality of RAMs 106 and a plurality of program memories 102. Although the input / output circuit 108 is shown as a single block, the input / output circuit 108 may include a plurality of different types of input / output circuits. The RAM 104 and the program memory 102 can be implemented in a semiconductor memory, a magnetically readable memory, an optical readable memory, or the like.

The program memory 102 is a read-only memory (ROM) or a read / write, that is, a rewritable memory such as a hard disk. When a hard disk is used as a program memory, the address / data bus 110 schematically shown in FIG. 4A includes a plurality of different types of addresses / data buses, and input / output circuits are arranged between the addresses / data buses. You may be. The network data links 24 and 70 are operably coupled to the input / output circuits 108.

The registration unit 100A includes a display unit 112. The display unit 112 can be any type of display unit such as a cathode ray tube (CRT), a flat panel display, and the like. Further, the registration unit 100A includes one abnormal input device 114 such as a keyboard, a mouse, a bar code scanner, a smart card reader, and a touch detection device attached to the display unit 112. Further, the registration unit 100A includes a fingerprint scanning device 116, which is an arbitrary device capable of detecting a person's fingerprint and generating digital data representing the fingerprint. The registration unit 100A and the fingerprint scanning device 116 may be configured such that the fingerprint scanning device 116 is detachably coupled to the registration unit. Further, the fingerprint scanning device 116 may be integrated with the registration unit 100A. In one embodiment, the fingerprint scanning device 116 may be integrated with the touch screen of the registration unit 100A. Further, the registration unit 100A may include a smart card reader / writer 117.

The components 112, 114, 116, 117 are operably coupled to the input / output circuit 108 and may be coupled by either a unidirectional or bidirectional, single-line or multi-line data link. This data link depends on the design of the components used. Further, the components 112, 114, 116, 117 may be directly connected to the input / output circuit 108 via a line, that is, a conductor, or may use a different connection method. For example, one or more components shown in FIG. 4A can be connected to the input / output circuit 108 via a shared bus or other data link shared by the plurality of components. Further, some of the components may be directly connected to the microprocessor 104 without going through the input / output circuit 108.

FIG. 4B is a block diagram showing a possible second embodiment of the registration unit 26 (FIG. 1). With reference to FIG. 4B, the registration unit 100B is identical to the registration unit 100A described above with reference to FIG. 4A, except that it uses the eye scan device 118 instead of the fingerprint scan device 116. The eye scanner 118 can detect a part of the eye such as the iris or retina of the human eye and generate digital data representing an image of the eye or digital data representing the physical characteristics of the eye. It is a type of device.

FIG. 4C is a block diagram showing a possible third embodiment of the registration unit 26 (FIG. 1). With reference to FIG. 4C, the registration unit 100C is identical to the registration unit 100A described above with reference to FIG. 4A, except that it uses the camera 120 instead of the fingerprint scanner 116. The camera 120 is any type of camera or combination of a camera and a data processing circuit and is used to generate a digital image of a portion of a person, such as a face.

FIG. 4D is a block diagram showing a possible fourth embodiment of the registration unit 26 (FIG. 1). With reference to FIG. 4D, the registration unit 100D is identical to the registration unit 100A described above with reference to FIG. 4A, except that it uses a voice analyzer 122 and a microphone 124 instead of the fingerprint scanner 116. The microphone 124 is used to detect voice corresponding to one or more words spoken by a person and generate a voice signal accordingly. The voice signal is supplied to the voice analyzer 122. The voice analyzer 122 is any type of device or circuit, such as a combination of a sampling and analog-to-digital conversion circuit and a speech recognition circuit, that produces digital data representing a digital voiceprint or the unique frequency characteristics of a human voice. In some embodiments, a voice signal is supplied to an analog-to-digital converter, and the controller 101 generates digital data representing a digital voiceprint or the unique frequency characteristics of the person's voice.

With reference to FIG. 1 again, it goes without saying that when the game system 10 includes a plurality of registered units 26, all the registered units 26 may be of the same type, or each registered unit 26 may be of a different type. For example, some registration units 26 may be of the same type as described with reference to FIGS. 4A-4D, and others may be of different types.

Game Units Each game unit 20 may be installed in a different place such as a hotel room, a restaurant, an airport, or a home. Each game unit 20 is a smart terminal such as a casino game unit, a video gambling machine, a computer-based kiosk, a personal computer, a laptop computer, a PDA, or a dumb terminal that does not include a controller.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing one possible embodiment of the game unit 20. Needless to say, the design of the game unit 20 may be different from the design of other game units 20. A part of the game unit 20 is an arbitrary type of casino game unit, and its configuration and operation method are variously different. Various designs of the game unit 20 will be described below to illustrate embodiments, but it goes without saying that many other designs can also be used.

With reference to FIG. 5, the casino game unit 20 includes a housing or cabinet 150 and one or more input devices. The input device includes a coin slot or acceptor 152, a bill acceptor 154, a ticket reader / printer 156, a card reader and / or a writer (hereinafter referred to as "card reader / writer") 158. These are used to put a value into the game unit 20. The monetary input device includes any device that can accept a value from the customer. Here, the term "amount" includes game tokens, coins, banknotes, ticket vouchers, credit or debit cards, smart cards, and other objects representing amounts.

If a ticket reader / printer 156 is provided in the game unit 20, it is used to read and / or print or encode the ticket voucher 160. The ticket voucher 160 is made of paper or other printable or encodeable material and has the following information printed or encoded: casino name, ticket voucher type, validation number, control and / or security data bar. Code, ticket voucher issuance date and time, redemption instructions and restrictions, prize description, and other necessary or desirable information. Different types of ticket vouchers 160 may be used, such as bonus ticket vouchers, cash redemption ticket vouchers, casino chip ticket vouchers, extra gameplay ticket vouchers, prize ticket vouchers, restaurant ticket vouchers, show ticket vouchers and the like. The ticket voucher 160 can be printed with an optically readable material such as ink, or the data on the ticket voucher 160 can be magnetically encoded. The ticket reader / printer 156 may have both functions of reading and printing the ticket voucher 160, or may have a function of only reading, printing or encoding the ticket voucher 160. In the latter case, for example, some game units 20 may have a ticket printer that can be used to print the ticket voucher 160, which may be used by players of other game units 20 having a ticket reader 156. ..

If a card reader / writer 158 is provided, it may be any type of card reader / writer such as a magnetic card reader / writer or optical card reader / writer, and a player such as a credit card, smart card, player ticketing card, etc. Can be used to read data from and / or write data to the card offered by. When the card reader / writer 158 is provided for the purpose of tracking the player, the card reader / writer 158 can be used to store data representing the player's identification information, the casino's identification information, the player's game tendency, and the like. Read data from the tracking card and / or write data to it.

The game unit 20 includes one or more audio speakers 162, a coin payment tray 164, an input control panel 166, and a color video display unit 170 that displays images about the game provided by the game unit 20. The audio speaker 162 produces audio that represents audio, such as spinning slot machine reel noise, dealer voices, music, announcements, and other audio related to casino games. The input control panel 166 is provided with a plurality of push buttons and touch detection areas that the player presses, for example, to select a game, place a bet, and make a game decision.

FIG. 5A shows one possible embodiment of the control panel 166. The control panel 166 can be used when the game unit 20 is a slot machine with multiple mechanical or "virtual" reels. With reference to FIG. 5A, the control panel 166 includes a "view pay" button 172. When pressed, this button causes the display unit 170 to generate one or more display screens showing the odds or payment information of the game provided by the game unit 20. Here, the term "button" includes any device that causes the player to input, for example, an input device that must be pressed to make an input selection, or a display area that the player can touch. The control panel 166 includes a "cash out" button 174 that the player presses when he or she wants to stop playing in the game unit 20. In this case, the game unit 20 returns a value to the player, such as by returning coins to the player via the payment tray 164.

When the game unit 20 provides a slot game having a plurality of reels and a plurality of paylines defining a combination of winning reel symbols, the control panel 166 is provided with a plurality of selection buttons 176. Each button allows the player to select a different number of paylines before spinning the reels. For example, five buttons 176 are provided, and each button allows the player to select 1, 3, 5, 7 or 9 paylines.

When the game unit 20 provides a slot game having a plurality of reels, the control panel 166 is provided with a plurality of selection buttons 178, and each button allows the player to specify a stake for each payline selection. For example, if the minimum stake accepted by the game unit 20 is a quarter ($ 0.25), the game unit 20 is provided with five selection buttons 178, each of which causes one, two, three, four players. You can choose one or five quarters to bet on each payline. In this case, when the player presses the "5" button 176 (meaning to play 5 paylines on the next spin of the reels) and then the "3" button 178 (3 coins per payline). (Meaning to bet), the total bet (assuming a minimum bet of $ 0.25) is $ 3.75.

The control panel 166 includes a "maximum stake" button 180, allowing the player to make the maximum stake allowed in the game. In the above example, if you can make up to 9 paylines and bet up to 5 quarters for each selected payline, the maximum bet is $ 11.25 for 45 quarters. The control panel 166 includes a spin button 182 that allows the player to bet and then start spinning the reels of the slot game.

In FIG. 5A, rectangles are shown around the buttons 172, 174, 176, 178, 180, 182. Needless to say, for ease of reference, it merely indicates the area where the buttons 172, 174, 176, 178, 180, 182 are located. As a result, the term "control panel" should not be construed as suggesting that a panel or plate separate from the housing 150 of the game unit 20 is required, and the term "control panel" is used in multiple or groups. May include player controllable buttons.

Although one possible control panel 166 has been described, it goes without saying that another button can be used in the control panel 166, and the button used depends on the game played by the game unit 20. Although the illustrated control panel 166 is separated from the display unit 170, it goes without saying that the control panel 166 may be generated by the display unit 170. In that case, each button of the control panel 166 may be a colored area generated by the display unit 170, and the display unit 170 is provided with some mechanism for detecting the button when the button is touched, such as a touch detection screen. May be good.

The game unit 20 includes a biometric device (not shown in FIG. 5) that transmits biometric data or is operably coupled. The biometric device is, for example, a fingerprint scanning device, an eye scanning device, a face recognition device, a voice recognition device, and the like. The biometric device may include a mechanism for feeding back to the user. For example, a fingerprint scanning device includes a light that is turned on while scanning. As another example, the fingerprint scanning device includes a speaker that makes a "beep" sound when the scan is complete. In other embodiments, the display unit 170 and / or the audio speaker 162 may provide feedback to the user regarding the biometric device. For example, when the fingerprint scan is complete, a message is displayed on the display 170 or the audio speaker 162 produces a sound to inform the user that the scan is complete.

In some embodiments, the game unit 20 includes slots, ports, connectors, etc. (not shown) configured to connect biometric devices. In these embodiments, the biometric device can be detachably coupled to the game unit 20 via its slots, ports, connectors, and the like. For example, a biometric device configured to be detachably coupled to the game unit 20 may be given, registered, sold, or lent to the user. When a user wants to play a game in a game unit 20, the user "plugs" the biometric device into the game unit 20 and transmits biometric data to access the game.

In one embodiment, the smart card may include a biometric device (eg, a fingerprint scanner) that acquires biometric data from a person, or a card reader / writer 158 may be configured to connect a smart card with the biometric device. You may be.

In another embodiment, the biometric device 116 is integrated into the game unit 20. For example, the fingerprint scanning device may be incorporated in the touch screen, keyboard, buttons, handles, etc. of the game unit 20. In one embodiment, the fingerprint scanning device is incorporated in a button area, control panel area, handle, etc. on the touch screen corresponding to "spin", "deal", "hit", "play", etc. of the game unit 20. You may.

In some embodiments, the transmission of biometric data may correspond to the player's choice to play the game. For example, when the fingerprint scanner is built into the buttons, touch screen area, control panel area, handles, etc. that correspond to the spin selection of the reel type game, the transmission of the fingerprint scan will indicate the user's spin selection. May be good.

Further, the game unit 20 includes a positioning device (not shown in FIG. 5) that generates data indicating its position, or is operably coupled. The positioning device is, for example, a GPS device, a Loran-C device, or the like. In some embodiments, the game unit 20 includes slots, ports, connectors, and the like (not shown) configured to connect the positioning device. In these embodiments, the positioning device can be detachably coupled to the game unit 20 via its slots, ports, connectors, and the like. For example, a positioning device configured to be detachably coupled to the game unit 20 may be given to the user, registered, sold, or lent. When the user wants to play a game in the game unit 20, the user "plugs" the position specifying device into the game unit 20 to access the game.

Game Unit Electronics FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a plurality of components that can be incorporated into the game unit 20. With reference to FIG. 6, the game unit 20 includes a controller 200. The controller 200 has a program memory 202, a microcontroller or microprocessor (MP) 204, a random access memory (RAM) 206, and an input / output (I / O) circuit 208, which are via the address / data bus 210. It is interconnected. Needless to say, the controller 200 may include a plurality of microprocessors 204, although only one microprocessor 204 has been shown. Similarly, the memory of the controller 200 includes a plurality of RAM 206s and a plurality of program memories 202. Although the input / output circuit 208 is shown as a single block, the input / output circuit 208 may include a plurality of different types of input / output circuits. The RAM 204 and the program memory 202 can be implemented in a semiconductor memory, a magnetically readable memory, an optical readable memory, or the like.

The program memory 202 is a read-only memory (ROM) or a read / write, that is, a rewritable memory such as a hard disk. When a hard disk is used as a program memory, the address / data bus 210 schematically shown in FIG. 6 includes a plurality of different types of addresses / data buses, and input / output circuits are arranged between the addresses / data buses. You may be. The network data links 24, 64, 66 are operably coupled to the input / output circuit 208.

In FIG. 6, a control panel 166, a coin acceptor 152, a bill acceptor 154, a card reader / writer 158, a ticket reader / printer 156, and a display device 170 are operably coupled to an input / output circuit 208. Each of these components is connected by a unidirectional or bidirectional, single-line or multi-line data link, depending on the design of the component used. The speaker 162 is operably coupled to the sound circuit 212. The sound circuit includes a voice / sound synthesis circuit or a driver circuit. The sound generation circuit 212 is coupled to the input / output circuit 208. Also, the biometric device 214 and the position detector 216 may be operably coupled to the input / output circuit 208 and may be coupled by either a single-line or multi-line data link, either unidirectional or bidirectional. This data link depends on the design of the components used.

As shown in FIG. 6, components 152, 154, 156, 158, 166, 170, 212, 214, 216 are directly connected to the input / output circuit 108 via a line or conductor. A different connection method may be used. For example, one or more components shown in FIG. 6 can be connected to the input / output circuit 208 via a shared bus or other data link shared by the plurality of components. Further, some of the components may be directly connected to the microprocessor 204 without going through the input / output circuit 208.

Other types of game units Needless to say, the game units 20 may be of the same type, or each game unit may be of a different type. In general, the location where the game unit 20 is used is a factor in selecting the type of game unit. For example, a game unit 20 of the same type as described with reference to FIG. 5 is desirable in some places (eg, casinos, airports, off-site gambling facilities, etc.), but (eg, homes, hotel rooms, etc.). May not be desirable elsewhere (such as restaurants). Some types include a large number of components such as components 152, 154, 156, 158, 162, 166, 170, 212, 214, 216, while others include fewer components. For example, some game units 20 are free-standing and contain a large number of components, while other game units are desktops or countertops and contain few components. In one embodiment, the game unit 20 is a personal computer.

Some game units 20 are of the same type as the registration unit 26 described with reference to FIGS. 4A-4D. Further, some game units 20 may be the same as or substantially the same as the registered units 26. Further, some game units 20 may function as registration units 26.

Authentication Server FIG. 7 is a simplified block diagram showing a plurality of components incorporated into an embodiment of an authentication server. The authentication server 58 includes a controller 301. The controller 301 has a program memory 302, a microcontroller or microprocessor (MP) 304, a random access memory (RAM) 306, and an input / output (I / O) circuit 308, which are via the address / data bus 310. It is interconnected. Needless to say, the controller 301 may include a plurality of microprocessors 304, although only one microprocessor 304 has been shown. Similarly, the memory of the controller 301 includes a plurality of RAMs 306 and a plurality of program memories 302. Although the input / output circuit 308 is shown as a single block, the input / output circuit 308 may include a plurality of different types of input / output circuits. The RAM 304 and the program memory 302 can be implemented in a semiconductor memory, a magnetically readable memory, an optical readable memory, or the like.

The program memory 302 is a read-only memory (ROM) or a read / write, that is, a rewritable memory such as a hard disk. When a hard disk is used as a program memory, the address / data bus 310 schematically shown in FIG. 7 includes a plurality of different types of addresses / data buses, and input / output circuits are arranged between the addresses / data buses. You may be. The network data link 60 is operably coupled to the input / output circuit 308. Although only one network data link 60 is shown, it goes without saying that the authentication server 58 may be combined with a plurality of network data links.

The authentication server 58 includes a display unit 312. This display unit can be any type of display unit such as a cathode ray tube (CRT), a flat panel display, and the like. Further, the authentication server 58 may include one or more input devices 314 such as a keyboard and a mouse. The authentication server 58 may also include a server operating system.

The components 312 and 314 are operably coupled to the input / output circuit 308 and may be coupled by either a unidirectional or bidirectional, single-line or multi-line data link. This data link depends on the design of the components used. Further, the components 312 and 314 may be directly connected to the input / output circuit 308 via a line, that is, a conductor, or may use a different connection method. For example, one or more components shown in FIG. 7 can be connected to the input / output circuit 308 via a shared bus or other data link shared by the plurality of components. Further, some of the components may be directly connected to the microprocessor 304 without going through the input / output circuit 308.

Further, the authentication server 58 is operably coupled to the registration database (not shown) via the data link 316. The data link 316 is operably coupled to the input / output circuit 308 via the dedicated link 316. Different connection methods may be used. For example, the data link 316 is a shared bus or other data link shared by a plurality of components and / or shared by the data link 60. Further, the data link 316 may be directly connected to the microprocessor 304 without going through the input / output circuit 308.

Website Server FIG. 8 is a simplified block diagram showing a plurality of components incorporated into an embodiment of an authentication server. The website server 50 includes a controller 351. The controller has program memory 352, a microcontroller or microprocessor (MP) 354, random access memory (RAM) 356, and input / output (I / O) circuits 358, which are via the address / data bus 360. It is interconnected. Needless to say, the controller 351 may include a plurality of microprocessors 354, although only one microprocessor 354 has been shown. Similarly, the memory of the controller 351 includes a plurality of RAMs 356 and a plurality of program memories 352. Although the input / output circuit 358 is shown as a single block, the input / output circuit 358 may include a plurality of different types of input / output circuits. The RAM 354 and the program memory 352 can be implemented in a semiconductor memory, a magnetically readable memory, an optical readable memory, or the like.

The program memory 352 is a read-only memory (ROM) or a read / write, that is, a rewritable memory such as a hard disk. When a hard disk is used as a program memory, the address / data bus 360 schematically shown in FIG. 8 includes a plurality of different types of addresses / data buses, and input / output circuits are arranged between the addresses / data buses. You may be. The network data link 56 is operably coupled to the input / output circuit 358. Although only one network data link 56 is shown, it goes without saying that the website server 50 may be coupled to a plurality of network data links.

The website server 50 includes a display unit 362. This display unit can be any type of display unit such as a cathode ray tube (CRT), a flat panel display, and the like. Further, the website server 50 may include one or more input devices 364 such as a keyboard and a mouse. The website server 50 may also include a server operating system.

The components 362 and 364 are operably coupled to the input / output circuit 358 and may be coupled by either a unidirectional or bidirectional, single-line or multi-line data link. This data link depends on the design of the components used. Further, the components 362 and 364 may be directly connected to the input / output circuit 358 via a line, that is, a conductor, or may use a different connection method. For example, one or more components shown in FIG. 8 can be connected to the input / output circuit 358 via a shared bus or other data link shared by the plurality of components. Further, some of the components may be directly connected to the microprocessor 354 without going through the input / output circuit 358.

Game Server A possible embodiment of the game server 52 will be described with reference to FIG. 9, but it goes without saying that when a plurality of game servers 52 are used, the configuration of the game nest server 52 is different from the configuration described. , Each game server 52 may have a different configuration.

FIG. 9 is a simplified block diagram showing a plurality of components incorporated in one embodiment of the game server. The game server 52 includes a controller 401. The controller has a program memory 402, a microcontroller or microprocessor (MP) 404, a random access memory (RAM) 406, and an input / output (I / O) circuit 408, which are via the address / data bus 410. It is interconnected. Needless to say, the controller 401 may include a plurality of microprocessors 404s, although only one microprocessor 404 has been shown. Similarly, the memory of the controller 401 includes a plurality of RAM 406s and a plurality of program memories 402. Although the input / output circuit 408 is shown as a single block, the input / output circuit 408 may include a plurality of different types of input / output circuits. The RAM 404 and the program memory 402 can be implemented in a semiconductor memory, a magnetically readable memory, an optical readable memory, or the like.

The program memory 402 is a read-only memory (ROM) or a read / write, that is, a rewritable memory such as a hard disk. When a hard disk is used as a program memory, the address / data bus 410 schematically shown in FIG. 9 includes a plurality of different types of addresses / data buses, and input / output circuits are arranged between the addresses / data buses. You may be. The network data link 54 is operably coupled to the input / output circuit 408. Although only one network data link 54 is shown, it goes without saying that the game server 52 may be combined with a plurality of network data links.

The game server 52 includes a display unit 412. This display unit can be any type of display unit such as a cathode ray tube (CRT), a flat panel display, and the like. Further, the game server 52 may include one or more input devices 414 such as a keyboard and a mouse. The game server 52 may also include a server operating system.

The components 412, 414 are operably coupled to the input / output circuit 408 and may be coupled by either a unidirectional or bidirectional, single-line or multi-line data link. This data link depends on the design of the components used. Further, the components 412 and 414 may be directly connected to the input / output circuit 408 via a line, that is, a conductor, or may use a different connection method. For example, one or more components shown in FIG. 9 can be connected to the input / output circuit 408 via a shared bus or other data link shared by the plurality of components. Further, some of the components may be directly connected to the microprocessor 404 without going through the input / output circuit 408.

Network Computer FIG. 10 is a simplified block diagram showing a plurality of components incorporated into an embodiment of a network computer. The network computer 22 includes a controller 451. The controller has program memory 452, a microcontroller or microprocessor (MP) 454, random access memory (RAM) 456, and input / output (I / O) circuits 458, which are via the address / data bus 460. It is interconnected. Needless to say, the controller 451 may include a plurality of microprocessors 454, although only one microprocessor 454 has been shown. Similarly, the memory of the controller 451 includes a plurality of RAMs 456 and a plurality of program memories 452. Although the input / output circuit 458 is shown as a single block, the input / output circuit 458 may include a plurality of different types of input / output circuits. The RAM 454 and the program memory 452 can be implemented in a semiconductor memory, a magnetically readable memory, an optical readable memory, or the like.

The program memory 452 is a read-only memory (ROM) or a read / write, that is, a rewritable memory such as a hard disk. When a hard disk is used as a program memory, the address / data bus 460 schematically shown in FIG. 10 includes a plurality of different types of addresses / data buses, and input / output circuits are arranged between the addresses / data buses. You may be. The network data link 24 is operably coupled to the input / output circuit 458. Although only one network data link 24 is shown, it goes without saying that the network computer 22 may be coupled to a plurality of network data links.

The network computer 22 includes a display unit 462. This display unit can be any type of display unit such as a cathode ray tube (CRT), a flat panel display, and the like. Further, the network computer 22 may include one or more input devices 464 such as a keyboard and a mouse.

The components 462 and 464 are operably coupled to the input / output circuit 458 and may be coupled by either a unidirectional or bidirectional, single-line or multi-line data link. This data link depends on the design of the components used. Further, the components 462 and 464 may be directly connected to the input / output circuit 458 via a line, that is, a conductor, or may use a different connection method. For example, one or more components shown in FIG. 10 can be connected to the input / output circuit 458 via a shared bus or other data link shared by the plurality of components. Further, some of the components may be directly connected to the microprocessor 454 without going through the input / output circuit 458.

Operation of Registration Unit The operation method of the registration unit 26 will be described below with reference to a plurality of flowcharts representing a plurality of parts or routines of one or more computer programs. The computer program may be stored in memory 102, 106 of registration units 100A, 100B, 100C, or 100D (see FIGS. 4A-4D). That part of the computer program is written in a high-level language such as C, C ++, C ++, or a low-level language such as assembler or machine language. By storing the parts of the computer program, various parts of the memories 102, 106 are physically and / or structurally configured by the computer program instructions. Needless to say, the parts and routines of the computer program are, for example, display data (for example, a web page) supplied to the registration unit 26 by the network computer 22, the website server 50, or the authentication server 58 (see FIG. 1). Can be implemented by.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a possible embodiment of the operation software routine 500 executed by the registration unit 26. This flowchart will be described with reference to FIGS. 1, 4A and 12. At block 502, the user is prompted to enter personal data. As an example, the registration screen can be displayed on the display unit 112. FIG. 12 shows an example of the registration screen 520 that can be displayed on the display unit 112. The registration screen 520 includes a data input box 522 for inputting the name of the person to be registered, a data input box 524 for inputting the surname of the person, a data input box 526 for inputting the date of the person's birthday, and the like. It includes a data entry box 528 for entering a person's credit card number and a data entry box 530 for entering the expiration date of the credit card. The registration screen 520 also includes a send button 532 that the user can use to send data. The registration screen 520 may be generated by software running on the registration unit 100A. Further, the registration screen 520 can receive display data (for example, as a web page) from, for example, the network computer 22, the website server 50, or the authentication server 58 (see FIG. 1).

Other personal data that can be acquired via the registration screen such as the registration screen 520 may include a login ID, password, mailing address, e-mail address, telephone number, and the like.

In another embodiment, if part or all of the information required on the registration screen 520 is stored on the person's smart card, that information may be read from the smart card.

At block 504, it is determined whether personal data has been received. If NO, the routine returns to block 502 and either waits for additional personal data or prompts the user for input. At block 508, the user is prompted to enter biometric data. In the case of a registration unit including a fingerprint scanner, such as the registration unit 100A of FIG. 4A, a screen asking the user to place a finger on the fingerprint scanner may be displayed on the display unit 112. Such a screen may be generated by software running on the registration unit 100A. Further, the registration screen 520 can be received as display data (for example, as a web page) from, for example, the network computer 22 (FIG. 1) or the website server 50 (FIG. 1).

At block 510, it is determined whether biometric data has been received. In the case of the registration unit 26 including the fingerprint scanner such as the registration unit 100A of FIG. 4A, the controller 101 determines whether the data representing the fingerprint has been received from the fingerprint scanner 116. If the biometric data has not yet been received, the routine goes back and waits for that data.

At block 512, personal data and / or biometric data can be encrypted, or a digital signature can be applied to that data. This helps ensure that the data comes from a trusted source and helps increase the security of the entire system. This block is not necessary if it is not needed. Even if the biometric data is encrypted by the controller 101, the biometric device (for example, the fingerprint scanning device 116 (FIG. 4A), the eye scanning device 118 (FIG. 4B), etc.), and other devices, the digital signature is applied to the data. It may be implemented by software, firmware, hardware, or a combination thereof.

In block 514, biometric data and personal data are stored. The pieces of data can be stored in, for example, the memory (for example, a hard disk) of the registration unit 26. In embodiments that include a smart card reader / writer 117, the data can be stored in the smart card. In the embodiment including the network computer 22, the data can be transmitted to and stored in the network computer 22. The data may be transmitted, for example, via the network data link 24. In the embodiment including the authentication server 58, the data can be transmitted to the authentication server 58 and stored. For example, data may be transmitted via network data link 24 or 70, network 40, and network data link 60. Needless to say, the data does not have to be stored in one place. For example, in the embodiment including the network computer 22, the data may be stored in the registration unit and transmitted to the network computer 22 for storage. Further, the biometric data and a part of the personal data may be stored in the registration unit 26, and a part or the whole of the personal data may be transmitted to the network computer 22 and stored.

Needless to say, the operations shown in the block of FIG. 11 do not need to be executed at the same time, nor need to be executed by the registration unit 26. For example, the user can send personal data first (blocks 502 and 504). Then, biometric data can be transmitted later (blocks 508 and 510). In this example, steps 512 and 514 may be performed twice, i.e. once for personal data and once for biometric data.

As another example, the user can send personal data from the personal computer (registration unit) of the user's residence via the website provided by the web server 50 or the authentication server 58 (FIG. 1) (blocks 502 and 504). ). The website then instructs the user to go to a particular location (eg, a casino) and send biometric data. The user may later go to that particular location and send the biometric data. In the case of a casino, the casino employee confirms the person's identification information, confirms the personal data that the person previously sent, and operates the registration unit 26 to obtain the person's biometric data. (Blocks 508 and 510) send it to the authentication server 58 (blocks 514).

FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a possible embodiment of the operating software routine 550 executed by the registration unit 100A (FIG. 4A) to obtain a fingerprint scan of the user. Routine 550 is part of a computer program that controls the operation of registration unit 26 to generate biometric data about a person and is stored in any program memory 102 (FIG. 4A) of authentication unit 26 (FIG. 1). To. Routine 550 is used by a registration unit 100A (FIG. 4A) that has or is configured to operably couple with the fingerprint scanning apparatus 116 described above with reference to FIG. 4A. Similar routines may be used for registration units 100B-100D (FIGS. 4B-4D). Routine 550 generates digital data that uniquely represents a person's physical features, such as a person's fingerprint, and locates the person.

At block 552, the controller 101 of the registration unit 100A displays on the display unit 112 a message prompting the user to rest his finger on the scanner of the fingerprint scanning device 116. At block 554, the fingerprint scanning device 116 scans the person's fingerprint and generates digital data representing that person's fingerprint, as described above. In block 556, digital data representing a fingerprint is stored in, for example, the memory 106 of the registration unit 100A.

If necessary, blocks 552-556 are repeated multiple times to generate digital data representing a synthetic fingerprint scan. Synthetic fingerprint scans are generated, for example, by averaging each set of digital fingerprint data. Performing the scan multiple times increases the reliability and / or accuracy of the scan data. If multiple scans are not used, the operations of blocks 558 and 560 may be omitted.

If multiple scans are used to generate data representing synthetic scans, at block 558 the controller 101 determines if all scans have been made. This determination may be made, for example, by simply determining whether or not a predetermined number of scans (for example, 5 times) have been performed. When all scans have not been done, the program returns to block 552 and performs another scan. When all scans have been made, the controller 101 determines a composite scan based on all scans, for example by averaging the digital data for each scan. Such averaging is performed, for example, by averaging the pixel intensities of each set of scan data for each pixel.

The registration routine 550 has been described for the fingerprint scanning apparatus 116 of FIG. 4A, but it goes without saying that other unique physical features of a person (eg, human eyes, face, voice, etc.) can be used using the same or similar routines. You may "train" the system to recognize it.

For example, when using routine 550 with respect to registration unit 100A (FIG. 4D) having voice analyzer 122 and microphone 124, in block 554, instead of performing a scan of a person's fingerprint, that person speaks into microphone 124. The voice analyzer 122 may generate a set of digital data representing spoken words. The digital voice data is handled and processed by routine 550 in the same manner as the digital fingerprint data described above.

In other embodiments, the person may be prompted to scan multiple fingers and / or provide different types of biometric data. For example, one may be encouraged to do one or more fingerprint scans and a retinal scan. Those skilled in the art will appreciate the many variations possible.

Operation of Game Unit The operation method of the game unit 20 will be described below with reference to a plurality of flowcharts representing a plurality of parts or routines of one or more computer programs. This computer program may be stored in the memories 202 and 206 of the game unit 20. That part of the computer program is written in a high-level language such as C, C ++, C ++, or a low-level language such as assembler or machine language. By storing the parts of the computer program, various parts of the memories 202, 206 are physically and / or structurally configured by the computer program instructions. Needless to say, the parts and routines of the computer program can be implemented, for example, by the web pages supplied to the game unit 20 by the network computer 22, the website server 50, the game server 52 or the authentication server 58 (see FIG. 1).

Main Routine FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a possible embodiment of the operation software routine 600 executed by the game unit 20, and will be described with reference to FIG. In block 602, data including personal data of the user is acquired. This data includes, for example, a name and a login ID. This data is obtained by encouraging the user to send the data via a keyboard or touch screen. In the embodiment of the game unit 20 including the smart card reader / writer, data may be acquired from the smart card inserted by the user. Using the data acquired in block 602, for example, in a database, the biometric data transmitted by the user when registering with the game service is searched. Block 602 is optional and may be omitted if not required.

In block 604, data including biometric data is acquired from the user. Examples of methods for acquiring biometric data, personal data and location data will be described below. In block 606, the data regarding the position of the game unit 20 is acquired. Block 606 is optional and may be omitted if not required.

In the embodiment using the position data, it is determined whether or not the position data acquired in the block 606 indicates that the game unit 20 is located in the place where the game play through the game system 10 is permitted in the block 608. To do. If NO, the routine returns to block 602. If allowed, the routine proceeds to block 610. In some embodiments, block 608 is implemented in game unit 20. In another embodiment, block 608 is implemented with the authentication server 58. For example, the game unit 20 transmits location data to the authentication server 58. Then, the authentication server 58 determines whether or not the position of the game unit is an permitted location. Next, the authentication server 58 sends a message to the game unit 20 indicating whether or not the position is permitted. Similarly, block 608 can be implemented with network computer 22, game server 52, website server 50, and the like.

In block 610, the biometric data acquired in block 604 is compared with the biometric data acquired at the time of registration, and it is determined whether or not they match. In some embodiments, block 610 is implemented in game unit 20. For example, the game unit 20 may be operably coupled with a smart card reader / writer. In this example, the user can insert a smart card containing the registered biometric data into a smart card reader / writer. Then, the game unit 20 compares the biometric data acquired in the block 604 with the biometric data of the registered user stored in the smart card.

Also, block 610 may be implemented with the authentication server 58. For example, the game unit 20 transmits the biometric data acquired in block 604 to the authentication server 58. Then, the authentication server 58 determines whether or not the received biometric data matches the biometric data of the registered user. Next, the authentication server 58 sends a message to the game unit 20 indicating whether or not the user is permitted to play the game. Similarly, block 610 can be implemented with network computer 22, game server 52, website server 50, and the like.

When it is determined in block 610 that the biometric data acquired in block 604 matches the biometric data of the registered user, control proceeds to block 612. Otherwise, control proceeds to block 602. At block 612, the user is allowed to play the game of the game system 10.

In block 606, the authentication server 58 allows or disallows the user to access the game service, depending on the data transmitted in block 604. If the authentication server 58 does not grant access, the routine returns to block 602 and waits for new data.

Acquisition of Biometric Data FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing a possible embodiment of the operation software routine 620 executed by the game unit 20. Routine 620 is used to retrieve data from a user to authenticate the user and will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 6. At block 622, the user is prompted to enter personal data. As an example, the display unit 170 prompts the user to input personal data (for example, logon ID, surname, etc.) that can be used to identify the registered user. Such a screen may be generated by software running on the game unit 20. Further, the registration screen 520 can receive display data (for example, as a web page) from, for example, a network computer 22, a website server 50, an authentication server 58 (see FIG. 1), or the like.

At block 624, it is determined whether personal data has been received. If NO, the routine returns to block 622 and either waits for additional personal data or prompts the user for input. At block 626, the user is prompted to enter biometric data. In the case of a game unit including a fingerprint scanner such as the game unit 20 of FIG. 6, a screen asking the user to put a finger on the fingerprint scanner may be displayed on the display unit 170. Such a screen may be generated by software running on the game unit 20. Further, the screen can receive display data (for example, as a web page) from, for example, a network computer 22, a website server 50, an authentication server 58 (see FIG. 1), or the like.

At block 628, it is determined whether biometric data has been received. In the case of a game unit including a fingerprint scanner such as the game unit 20 of FIG. 6, the controller 200 determines whether data representing a fingerprint has been received from the fingerprint scanner. If the biometric data has not yet been received, the routine goes back and waits for that data.

At block 630, personal data and / or biometric data can be encrypted, or a digital signature can be applied to that data. This helps ensure that the data comes from a trusted source and helps increase the security of the entire system. This block is not necessary if it is not needed. The biometric data may be encrypted by the controller 200, a biometric device, or other device, or a digital signature may be applied to the data, which may be done by software, firmware, hardware, or a combination thereof.

Needless to say, depending on the embodiment, it is not necessary to authenticate the personal data earned in block 622. For example, authentication can be done using only biometric data. Therefore, blocks 622 and 624 may be omitted, and only biometric data may be transmitted to the authentication server 58 in block 612. Also, as described below, the user may be required to authenticate several times during play of the game. In these examples, the personal data acquired in blocks 622 and 624 need only be acquired once. In this way, during operation, blocks 622 and 624 are executed once during game play, and in-game authentication is omitted.

Acquisition of Position Data FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing a possible embodiment of the operation software routine 650 executed by the game unit 20. Routine 650 is used to obtain information about the position of the game unit 20 and will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 6. Needless to say, depending on the embodiment, routine 650 or a similar routine need not be performed. For example, in some embodiments, authentication of the position of the game unit 20 is not required. In another embodiment, the position of the game unit 20 is acquired by means that do not utilize the position specifying system operably coupled to the game unit 20. This example will be described below.

At block 652, the game unit 20 acquires position data from the position detection device 216. At block 654, the location data is encrypted or a digital signature is applied to the location data. This helps ensure that the location data comes from a reliable source and enhances the security of the entire system. This block is not necessary if it is not needed. Block 654 can be implemented, for example, by the controller 200, position detector 216, or other device, by software, firmware, hardware, or a combination thereof.

Operation of Authentication Server The operation method of the authentication server 58 will be described below with reference to a plurality of flowcharts representing a plurality of parts or routines of one or more computer programs. This computer program may be stored in the memories 302 and 306 of the controller 301 of the authentication server. That part of the computer program is written in a high-level language such as C, C ++, C ++, or a low-level language such as assembler or machine language. By storing the parts of the computer program, various parts of the memories 302, 306 are physically and / or structurally configured by the computer program instructions.

User Registration The operation method described below will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 7. FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing a possible embodiment of the operation software routine 700 executed by the authentication server 58. Routine 700 is used by the game system to register a user who wants to play a game.

At block 702, the authentication server 58 receives the personal data and biometric data transmitted by the registration unit 26. Needless to say, personal data and biometric data need not be received at the same time, nor need to be received from only one registration unit 26. Rather, as described above, the authentication server 58 can receive data at a plurality of time points and can receive data from the plurality of registration units 26.

In embodiments where personal and / or biometric data are encrypted and / or where a digital signature is applied, the authentication server 58 decrypts and / or digitally at block 704. Examine the signature to determine if the data came from a trusted source. Block 704 can be implemented, for example, by controller 301 or other device, by software, firmware, hardware, or a combination thereof.

When it is determined in block 704 that the received data is not genuine, the authentication server 58 sends a failure message to the registration unit 26 that received the data in block 706. The failure message indicates that the authentication server 58 is unable to register the user and that the data could not be authenticated.

If at block 704 the personal and / or biometric data is determined to be genuine, the flow proceeds to block 708. In other embodiments, blocks 704 and 706 may be omitted. For example, blocks 704 and 706 may be absent when personal and biometric data are not encrypted or a digital signature is not applied to the data before it is received by the authentication server 58.

In block 708, the received personal data and biometric data are stored in the registration database. The registration database can be a suitable database such as a commercial database such as Oracle, Sybase, Microsoft, IBM, etc. Needless to say, personal data and biometric data need not be received and stored at the same time. For example, personal data may be received at one time and biometric data may be received at a later time. In this example, personal data is stored first, and biometric data is later received and stored.

Position Check The operation method described below will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 7. FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing a possible embodiment of the operation software routine 750 executed by the authentication server 58. Routine 750 is used to determine if the position of the game unit is where the game is allowed to play through the game system.

At block 752, the authentication server 58 receives data indicating the location of the game unit. The location data is, for example, an Internet Protocol (IP) address, location data from a positioning device coupled to a game unit, and the like.

In embodiments where the location data is encrypted and / or where a digital signature is applied, the authentication server 58 decrypts the data and / or examines the digital signature at block 754 and its Determine if the data came from a trusted source. Block 754 can be implemented, for example, by controller 301 or other device, by software, firmware, hardware, or a combination thereof.

When it is determined in block 754 that the received data is not genuine, the authentication server 58 sends a rejection message to the game unit in block 756. The reject message indicates, for example, that the authentication server 58 has determined that the location data is not genuine.

If the position data is determined to be genuine in block 754, control proceeds to block 758. In another embodiment, block 754 may be absent if the location data is not encrypted or a digital signature is not applied to the data before it is received by the authentication server 58.

At block 758, it is determined whether the position data indicates that the game unit is in an authorized location. In embodiments where the location data includes the IP address of the game unit, the IP address of the game unit can be compared, for example, with a list of allowed IP addresses. It also maps IP addresses to, for example, geographic areas and compares those geographic areas with permitted geographic areas.

In embodiments where the location data includes geolocation information, the geolocation information can be compared, for example, with an authorized geographic area. In the embodiment in which the location data includes the location information in the building, the location information in the building can be compared with, for example, the permitted area in the building. For example, in-building location information indicates that a game unit is outside a building, while game play is only allowed inside that building.

If the position data determines that the game unit is not in the allowed position, control proceeds to block 756. At block 756, the authentication server 58 denies the user access to the game system. Depending on the embodiment, the authentication server 58 may send a rejection message to the game unit. The reject message indicates that the authentication server 58 has determined that the position data indicating the position of the game unit is not permitted.

If it is determined in block 758 that the game unit is in an allowed position, control proceeds to block 760. At block 760, the authentication server 58 grants the user access to the game system. For example, in some embodiments, the authentication server 58 sends a message to the game unit indicating that the game unit is in an authorized position. In another embodiment, the authentication server 58 notifies that the game unit is in an authorized position and passes control to the website server 50 or game server 52.

Checking biometric data The operation method described below will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 7. FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing a possible embodiment of the software routine 770 executed by the authentication server 58. Routine 770 can be used to determine if the biometric data sent by the user matches the biometric data sent at registration.

At block 774, the authentication server 58 receives the biometric data. In embodiments where the biometric data is encrypted and / or where a digital signature is applied, the authentication server 58 decrypts the data and / or examines the digital signature at block 778. Determine if the data was received from a reliable source. Block 778 can be implemented, for example, by controller 301 or other device, by software, firmware, hardware, or a combination thereof.

When it is determined in block 778 that the received biometric data is not genuine, the authentication server 58 sends a rejection message to the game unit 20 in block 782. The reject message indicates that the location data is not genuine and / or the authentication server 58 determines that the location data indicating the location of the game unit 20 is not permitted.

If at block 778 the biometric data is determined to be genuine, control is passed to block 786. In another embodiment, block 778 may be absent when the biometric data is not encrypted or a digital signature is not applied to the data before it is received by the authentication server 58.

At block 786, it is determined whether the biometric data matches the biometric data transmitted at the time of registration. For example, the received biometric data is compared with the biometric data stored in a memory, a database, or the like, and it is determined whether or not the data matches any of the stored data. When personal data accompanying the received biometric data is available, the personal data is used to search the stored biometric data corresponding to the personal data from a memory, a database, or the like. Next, the biometric data received in block 774 is compared with the biometric data retrieved from the memory, database, etc. corresponding to the personal data. In another embodiment, the biometric data received in block 774 is compared with the biometric data stored in the smart card reader. This includes, for example, receiving biometric data from a smart card via the game unit 20 and authenticating the biometric data of the smart card. If the smart card biometric data is genuine, the biometric data received in block 774 is compared with the smart card biometric data.

If the biometric data received in block 774 does not match the biometric data acquired at registration, control is passed to block 782. At block 782, the authentication server 58 denies the user access to the game system. Depending on the embodiment, the authentication server 58 may send a rejection message to the game unit 20. The reject message indicates, for example, that the authentication server 58 has determined that the biometric data does not match the biometric data of any registered user.

At block 786, control is passed to block 790 when the biometric data received at block 774 does not match the biometric data acquired at registration. At block 790, the authentication server 58 grants the user access to the game system 10. In some embodiments, the authentication server 58 sends a message to the game unit 20 indicating that the biometric data of the user matches that of the registered user. In some embodiments, the authentication server 58 notifies, for example, that the biometric data of the user matches that of the registered user and passes control to the web server 50 or the game server 52.

Operation of Website Server FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing a possible embodiment of the operation software routine 800 executed by the website server 50. Referring to FIG. 20, at block 822, the web server 50 determines whether the player has indicated that he or she wants to stop playing the game that the player has played through one of the game servers 52. While playing the game, the game server 52 that provides the game software for the game controls the operation of the game. When the player indicates that he wants to stop playing the game, the game server 52 returns control to the website server 50. In this case, the routine branches into blocks 824, and the game selection screen is displayed on the display unit 170 (FIG. 6) of the game unit 20 used by the player.

At block 826, the routine determines whether a logon request indicating that it wants to start a game session has been received from the player via one of the game units 20. The logon request is, for example, input by a player of the Internet address of the website attached to the website server 50. Upon receiving the logon request, the routine displays the logon screen on the display unit 44 of the player that sent the logon request. To generate the logon screen (block 828), the web server 50 transmits screen data representing the logon screen image to the game unit 20. Various image data including the logon image data are stored in one of the memories 352 and 356 of the website server 50.

FIG. 21 shows an example of the logon screen 130 displayed on the display unit 44 of the player. With reference to FIG. 21, the logon screen 900 includes a data entry box 902 for entering the player's name. The logon screen 900 also includes a button 916 that can be selected to send the data entered in the data entry box 902 of the logon screen 900.

Information such as surname, logon name, password, street address, city name, state name, zip code, credit card number, and expiration date of the credit card number can be additionally or substituted from the user.

In some embodiments, some or all of this information may be obtained from the player's smart card. In these embodiments, the logon screen additionally or alternatively prompts the player to insert the smart card into the smart card reader.

Returning to FIG. 20, when the website server 50 receives the logon data from the player determined in the block 846, the data is stored in one of the memories 352 and 356 of the website server 50 in the block 848. If the website server 50 has received all the required logon data in block 849, the routine branches to block 824. If NO, the routine returns to block 846 and waits for yet another logon data from the player.

At block 824, the routine creates a game selection screen on the display unit 170 of the game unit 20. In order to generate the game selection screen, the web server 50 transmits screen data representing an image of the game selection screen to the game unit 20. The display data is stored in one of the memories 352 and 356 of the website server 50. Block 824 attempts to end the game provided when the player first logs on to the website (ie, after the completion of block 849), or as described above, under the control of one of the game servers 52. Executed when (ie, after the completion of block 822).

FIG. 22 shows an example of the game selection screen 920 displayed on the display unit 170 of the player. Referring to FIG. 22, the game selection screen 920 includes a plurality of player-launchable icons and game images, each of which represents a game that the player can play via a website associated with the website server 50. For example, icons include: icons 922 related to draw poker games, icons 924 related to bonus poker games, icons 926 related to triple play poker games, icons related to 10-play poker games. 928, 50-Play Poker game related icon 930, first slot game related icon 932, second slot game related icon 934, blackjack game related icon 936, bingo game related icon 938, Icon 940 related to the Kino game. If the game unit 20 includes a mouse, the icon can be activated by the player with the mouse. Alternatively, each game icon is associated with a unique character, and the game can be selected by inputting one of the unique characters with the keyboard.

Games that can be played through the website provided by the website server 50 can be provided by the game server 52 in various ways. For example, when 12 games are available through a website and the website server 50 is operably coupled with four game servers 52, each of the four game servers 52 is exactly 5 of the games. Can be programmed to play one game.

As another example, if 10 games represented by this icon shown in FIG. 22 can be played and 4 game servers 52 are connected to the website server 50, the first game server 52 has an icon. The second game server 52 is programmed with the game software providing the two slot games represented by the icons 932 and 934, and the second game server 52 is programmed with the game software providing the poker games represented by 922, 924, 926, 928, and 930. The game server 52 of the third is programmed with the game software providing the blackjack game represented by the icon 936, and the fourth game server 52 is programmed with the game software providing the bingo game and the keno game represented by the icons 938 and 940. Each game may be playable via only one of the game servers 52. In other words, only one of the four game servers 52 contains game software that provides play for the triple play poker game indicated by the icon 926, in which case when the player wants to play the triple play poker game, that game. The server 52 must be used.

Alternatively, each game server 52 may provide a plurality of games that can only be used by their respective game providers. In that case, each game server 52 is programmed with game software that provides one or more poker games (and / or other games), but with different visual displays, different betting options, and so on. Each poker game is different, with different game options.

Each game that can be played via a website has one game server 52 in which the game software that provides the play of the game is stored. One of the memories 352 and 356 of the web server 50 stores data that identifies the game server 52 that provides the game software that executes each game available via the website. An example of such data is shown below. 1 Game Gaming Server Draw Poker # 1 Bonus Poker # 1 Triple Play Poker # 2 10-Play Poker # 2 50-Play Poker # 2 Slots A # 3 Slots B # 3 Blackjack # 4 Bingo # 5 Keno # 6

Depending on the embodiment, one game server 52 plays a plurality of types of games.

With reference to FIG. 20, at block 874, as described above, when the player selects one of the games available via the website, the routine branches to block 876. At block 876, the routine acquires position data associated with the game unit 20. For example, the website server 50 prompts the game unit 20 to acquire location data and send it to the web server 50. The game unit 20 acquires position data by using a routine such as routine 650 (FIG. 16). Further, the web server 50 acquires position data such as the IP address of the game unit 20.

At block 878, the routine determines whether the position data acquired at block 876 indicates that the game unit 20 is in an authorized location. For example, the website server 50 transmits the position data acquired in block 876 and requests the authentication server 58 to determine whether the game unit 20 is in the permitted position. The authentication server 58 uses a routine such as routine 750 (FIG. 18) to determine whether the game unit 20 is in an authorized position. In embodiments that include an authentication server 58, the determination of whether the game unit 20 is in an authorized location can be performed by another computing system (eg, website server 50, network computer 22, etc.).

In other embodiments, at blocks 876 and 878, control is passed from the web server 50 to the authentication server 58, or to any computing system that implements blocks 876 and 878. Control is then returned to the web server 50 at block 880.

If the game unit 20 is in the allowed position, the routine branches to block 882 to acquire the user's biometric data and authenticate the user. For example, the website server 50 prompts the game unit 20 to acquire biometric data from the user and transmit the biometric data to the web server 50. The game unit 20 acquires biometric data by using a routine such as routine 620 (FIG. 15).

At block 884, the routine determines if the biometric data acquired at block 882 matches the previously acquired biometric data. For example, the website server 50 transmits the biometric data acquired in block 882 and requests the authentication server 58 to determine whether the biometric data matches the biometric data of the registered user. The authentication server 58 can use routines such as routine 770 (FIG. 19). In an embodiment that does not include the authentication server 58, the determination of whether the biometric data matches the biometric data of the registered user is determined by other computing devices (eg, website server 50, network computer 22, game unit 20, etc. ) Can be executed. For example, the game unit 20 may compare the biometric data acquired from the player with the biometric data stored in the smart card.

In other embodiments, at blocks 882 and 884, control is passed from the web server 50 to the authentication server 58, or to any computing system that implements blocks 882 and 884. Control is then returned to the web server 50 at block 886. If the biometric data matches that of the registered user and optionally the user identified in the biometric data is allowed to play, control is passed to block 888. At block 888, control is passed to a game server 52 that provides game software to play the game. For example, using the table above, if the player selects triple play poker, the routine passes control to game server # 2.

If the biometric data does not match the biometric data of the registered user who is allowed to play, or optionally, the user identified in the biometric data is not allowed to play, control is passed to block 890. .. Similarly, if it is determined in block 870 that the game unit 20 is not in the permitted position, control proceeds to block 890. At block 890, the user is shown a screen indicating that access to play the game has been denied. Optionally, the screen may indicate why access was denied.

When the player, for example, activates the "sign off" icon 942 shown in FIG. 22 and chooses to end play on the website, the routine displays the game session summary on the display unit 170 of the game unit 20 block 894. Branch to. The game session summary provides the player with summary data such as how much they have won and which game they have played. The player prints a summary screen displayed on the display unit 170 to store a physical record of the game session. At block 896, the routine terminates the internet link between the website and the game unit 20.

In some embodiments, blocks 876, 878, 880 and / or 882, 884, 886 and block 890 may be omitted if not required. For example, position data and / or biometric data may be checked during gameplay.

Game Server Operations As described above, each game available via the website can be played via one of the game servers 52 operably coupled to the website server 50. Examples of draw poker, slot A, blackjack, bingo, and keno games represented by the game icons 152, 162, 166, 168, and 170 shown in FIG. 22 will be described below. In view of the above description, it goes without saying that the following game routines can be executed by different ones of the game servers 52, the one game server 52 may execute two or more game routines.

One of the game routines described below first passes control from the website server 50 to one of the game servers 52, as described above for block 888 of FIG. When one of the game routines is completed (ie, when the player wants to stop playing a game), the website server 50 makes the determination of block 822 in FIG. 20 as described above and performs the operation in block 824 as described above. Start.

Draw Poker FIG. 23 is displayed on one display unit 170 of game unit 20 (by game server 52 transmitting display data to game unit 20) during execution of a draw poker routine that may be performed by one of game servers 52. An example of the screen 950 to be displayed is shown.

Referring to FIG. 23, screen 950 includes video images 951 of a plurality of play cards representing a player's hand (eg, five cards). Multiple player selectable buttons are displayed to let the player control the play of the poker game. The buttons include a "hold" button 952, a "cash out" button 954, a "see pay" button 955, a "bet one credit" button 956, and a "maximum credit" located just below each of the playcard images 951. Includes a "Bet" button 957 and a "Deal / Draw" button 958. The screen 950 includes an area 959 in which the number of remaining credits or amount is displayed. As mentioned above, the buttons can be activated using the mouse.

When each button is activated, the corresponding data message is transmitted from the game unit 20 to the game server 52. The data message includes a source address that identifies the game unit 20 that sent the message, a destination address that identifies the game server 52 to which the message was sent, and bet data or game instruction data (eg, "deal", etc. It has a data field containing data corresponding to a button such as "hold").

In some embodiments, the one or more buttons 952, 954, 955, 956, 957, 958 may be integrated with a biometric device. For example, the "deal / draw" button may be integrated with the fingerprint scanner. In this example, the "Deal / Draw" button is activated by placing your finger on the fingerprint scanner and sending one or more fingerprint scans. The fingerprint scanner may be integrated with a touch screen, keyboard, control panel, levers and the like. For example, make the area where you place your finger for scanning correspond to the "deal / draw" selection.

In another embodiment, the player is prompted to send biometric data when he wants to make a "deal / draw" selection or the like. In yet another embodiment, for example, when the "deal / draw" button is integrated with the biometric device, the game unit 20 allows the player to "deal" (eg, by pressing a button or pressing a touch screen). It determines that the "/ draw" selection has been made, reads the biometric data through the biometric device, and makes the player appear to have both happened at the same time or substantially at the same time.

Thus, the transmission of biometric data may be a mechanism that provides gameplay selection (eg, "deal / draw" selection). The biometric data may also be transmitted at the same time as the gameplay selection. When such a selection is made, the corresponding data message is transmitted from the game unit 20 to the game server 52. The data message has a source address that identifies the game unit 20 that sent the message, a destination address that identifies the game server 52 to which the message was sent, and a data field that includes biometric data and the like. The message also includes data corresponding to the selection with which the biometric data transmission corresponds (eg, "deal"). This data does not need to be provided (although it may be provided) if the corresponding choice depends on the game situation.

In other embodiments, location information may be determined at the same time as gameplay selection. In these embodiments, the data message transmitted from the game unit 20 to the game server 52 includes location information.

FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing the poker routine 962. Referring to FIG. 24, in block 964, when the player activates, for example, the "view pay" button 955 to request payout information, in block 966 the routine (transmits data representing the paytable to the game unit 20). Then, one or more pay tables are displayed on the display unit 170 of the game unit 20.

At block 968, the player bets, for example, by selecting the "Bet 1 Credit" button 956 (FIG. 23). The game server 52 receives, for example, a "bet one credit" message from the game unit 20 and detects it. Upon receiving the "bet one credit" message, control is passed to block 976. In block 976, the bet data corresponding to the bet made by the player is stored in the memory (for example, the memory of the game server controller 401).

At block 978, the routine determines if the player has activated the "Bet Maximum Credits" button 957. For example, the game server 52 receives a "bet maximum credit" data message from the game unit 20. If YES, control is passed to the block. In block 980, bet data corresponding to the bet made by the player is stored in the memory (for example, the memory of the game server controller 401).

At block 982, the routine determines if the player wants a new hand deal (eg, by receiving a deal / draw data message from game unit 20 after making a bet). If YES, control is passed to block 970. At block 970, the biometric data is acquired from the player and checked to see if it matches the biometric data of the registered user. For example, the game server 52 prompts the game unit 20 to acquire biometric data from the user and transmit the biometric data to the game server 52. The game unit 20 acquires biometric data by using a routine such as routine 620 (FIG. 15). Further, the game server 52 transmits the acquired biometric data to the authentication server 58, and requests the authentication server 58 to determine whether or not the biometric data matches the biometric data of the registered user. The authentication server 58 can use routines such as routine 770 (FIG. 19). In an embodiment that does not include the authentication server 58, the determination of whether the biometric data matches the biometric data of the registered user is determined by another computing device (eg, game server 52, network computer 22, game unit 20, etc.). Can be executed in. For example, the game unit may compare the biometric data acquired from the player with the biometric data stored in the smart card.

In another embodiment, at block 970, control is passed from the game server 52 to the authentication server 58, or to any computing system that implements block 970. Then, in block 972 or block 984 (if access is granted), control returns to game server 52.

If it is determined in step 972 that access is not granted, the routine ends. If it is determined in block 972 that access is granted, control proceeds to block 984.

As mentioned above, the transmission of biometric data is incorporated into the determination of whether the player wants to deal a new move. For example, when a player sends or requests biometric data for a request, he deals a new move. In this way, the blocks 982, 970, 972 may be integrated, and the order thereof may be changed.

At block 984, the video poker hand is "dealed" by having the display unit 170 generate a playcard image 951 (by transmitting one or more messages with suitable display data to the game unit 20). After dealing the hand, at block 986, the routine determines if the player has selected the "hold" button 952. For example, the game server 52 determines whether the "hold" data message has been received from the game unit 20. If YES, in block 388, data regarding which play card image 951 is "held" is stored in a memory (for example, the memory of the game server controller 401).

If it is determined in block 990 that the user has selected the "deal / draw" button 958 (eg, when the game server 52 receives a "deal / draw" data message from the game unit 20), it is "held" in block 992. Each unplayed playcard image 951 disappears from the video display 950 and is replaced by a new randomly selected playcard image 951.

Some embodiments require the transmission of biometric data at the same time as block 990, as described above for blocks 982, 970, and 972. For example, a fingerprint scanner is integrated with a "deal / draw" selection "button" and the transmission of biometric data is interpreted as a "draw" request.

At block 994, the routine determines if the poker hand represented by the currently displayed playcard image 951 is winning. The determination is made by comparing the currently displayed poker hand with all possible winning hand washing data stored in memory (eg, the memory of the game server controller 401). If there is a winner, in block 996, the payment amount corresponding to the winner is determined. In block 998, the player's bet is subtracted, and if the player wins, the player's cumulative amount or number of credits is updated by adding the payment amount determined in block 996. The cumulative amount or number of credits is also displayed in the display area 959 (FIG. 23).

If desired, a pair similar to the pair of blocks 970 and 972 may be added to other parts of the routine. For example, after or incorporating blocks 968 and / or 978, the biometric data is accessed and authenticated before passing control to block 976 or 980.

Blackjack FIG. 25 shows an example of a screen 1000 displayed on one display unit 170 of the game unit 20 (by a game server 52 that transmits display data to the game unit 20) during the execution of the blackjack routine. Referring to FIG. 25, screen 1000 washes a video image 1002 of a pair of playcards showing the dealer's hand, one card facing up and the other facing down, and the player's hand with both cards facing up. Includes a video image 1004 of a pair of play cards. The "dealer" is the game server 52.

Multiple player selectable buttons are displayed to let the player control the play of the blackjack game. The buttons include a "cash out" button 1006, a "view pay" button 1008, a "stay" button 1010, a "hit" button 1012, a "bet one credit" button 1014, and a "bet maximum credit" button 1016. included. The screen 1000 includes an area 1018 on which the number of remaining credits or amount is displayed. As mentioned above, the buttons can be activated using the mouse.

When each button is activated, the corresponding data message is transmitted from the game unit 20 to the game server 52. The data message includes a source address that identifies the game unit 20 that sent the message, a destination address that identifies the game server 52 to which the message was sent, and bet data or game instruction data (eg, "hits", etc. It has a data field that contains data corresponding to buttons such as "stay").

Similar to the buttons described with reference to FIG. 23, in some embodiments, one or more of the buttons 1006, 1008, 1010, 1012, 1014, and 1016 may be integrated with the biometric device. .. For example, the "hit" button may be integrated with the biometric device. For example, the "hit" button may be integrated with the biometric device, as described for the "deal / draw" button in FIG. Alternatively, the player may be able to make a "hit" selection by transmitting biometric data via a biometric device. Thus, as described above, the transmission of biometric data may be a mechanism that provides gameplay selection (eg, "hit" selection). The biometric data may also be transmitted at the same time as the gameplay selection.

FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing the blackjack routine 1020. Referring to FIG. 26, the blackjack routine 1020 first receives, in block 1022, (eg, a "bet one credit" or "bet maximum credit" data message from the game unit 20 by the game server 52. Determine if a bet has been placed by the player.

If bet is placed, control goes to block 1028. In block 1028, the bet data corresponding to the bet made by the player is stored in the memory (for example, the memory of the game server controller 401). At block 1030, the dealer's hand and the player's hand are "dealed" by showing the playcard images 1002, 1004 on the display unit 170 of the game unit 20.
At block 1032, the player can choose to "hit". In this case, control goes to block 1024. At block 1024, the biometric data is acquired from the player and checked to see if it matches the biometric data of the registered user. For example, the game server 52 prompts the game unit 20 to acquire biometric data from the user and transmit the biometric data to the game server 52. The game unit 20 acquires biometric data by using a routine such as routine 620 (FIG. 15).

Further, the game server 52 transmits the acquired biometric data to the authentication server 58, and requests the authentication server 58 to determine whether or not the biometric data matches the biometric data of the registered user. The authentication server 58 can use routines such as routine 770 (FIG. 19). In an embodiment that does not include the authentication server 58, the determination of whether the biometric data matches the biometric data of the registered user is determined by another computing device (eg, game server 52, network computer 22, game unit 20, etc.). Can be executed in. For example, the game unit 20 may compare the biometric data acquired from the player with the biometric data stored in the smart card.

In another embodiment, at block 1024, control is passed from the game server 52 to the authentication server 58, or to any computing system that implements block 1024. Then, in block 1026 or (if access is granted) block 1034, control returns to the game server 52.

If the biometric data matches that of the registered user and optionally the user identified in the biometric data is allowed to play, control is passed to block 1034. In block 1034, another play card image 1004 is represented in image 1000 and the other card is dealt into the player's hand. If the player hits, at block 1036 it is determined whether the player has "bust", i.e., has exceeded 21. If the player is not bust, control goes to block 1032.

If it is determined in step 1026 that access is not granted, the routine ends. Before exiting, the player is shown a screen indicating that access to play the game has been denied. Optionally, the screen may indicate why access was denied. Also, instead of terminating, the routine may return to block 1022.

As mentioned above, the transmission of biometric data is incorporated into the determination of whether the player wants a "hit". For example, the player sends biometric data to request a "hit" or requests a "hit". As described above, the blocks 1032, 1024, and 1026 may be integrated, and the order thereof may be changed.

At block 1038, if the player decides not to hit, the routine determines if the dealer should hit. Whether or not the dealer hits is determined by a predetermined rule, such as always hitting if the total number of hands of the dealer is 15 or less. When the dealer hits, in block 1040, another play card image 1002 is displayed on the screen 1000, and the other card is dealt in the dealer's hand. At block 1042, the routine determines if the dealer has bust. When the dealer is not bust, block 1038 and 1040 are executed again to make the dealer hit again.

If the dealer does not hit, at block 1044, the outcome of the blackjack game and the corresponding payment are determined based on whether the player or the dealer has the higher hand not exceeding 21. If the player wins, in block 1046, the payment amount corresponding to the winner is determined. In block 1048, the player's bet is subtracted, and if the player wins, the player's cumulative amount or number of credits is updated by adding the payment amount determined in block 1046. The cumulative amount or number of credits is also displayed in the display area 1018 (FIG. 25).

If desired, pairs of blocks 1024 and 1026 may be added to other parts of the routine.

Slot A
FIG. 27 shows an example of the screen 1050 displayed on one display unit 170 of the game unit 20 (by the game server 52 that transmits display data to the game unit 20) during the execution of the slot routine. With reference to FIG. 27, image 1050 includes video images 1052 of a plurality of slot machine reels. A plurality of reel symbols 1054 are associated with each reel. Screen 1050 shows five reel images 1052, but each reel image can see three reel symbols 1054 at once. Other reel configurations can also be used.

Multiple player selectable buttons are displayed to allow the player to control the play of the slot game. Buttons include: "Cash Out" button 1056, "View Pay" button 1058, multiple payline selection buttons that let the player select a playline before "spinning" the reels, and a player. A plurality of bet selection buttons 1062, a "spin" button 1064, and a "maximum bet" button 1066, which allows the player to make a maximum bet.

When the button is activated, the corresponding data message is transmitted from the game unit 20 to the game server 52. The data message includes a source address that identifies the game unit 20 that sent the message, a destination address that identifies the game server 52 to which the message was sent, and bet data or game instruction data (eg, "spin"). It has a data field that contains data corresponding to buttons such as.

Similar to the buttons described with reference to FIG. 23, in some embodiments, one or more of the buttons 1056, 1058, 1060, 1062, 1064, and 1066 may be integrated with the biometric device. .. For example, the "spin" button may be integrated with the biometric device. For example, the "spin" button may be integrated with the biometric device, as described for the "deal / draw" button in FIG. Alternatively, the player may be able to make a "spin" selection by transmitting biometric data via a biometric device. Thus, as described above, the transmission of biometric data may be a mechanism that provides gameplay selection (eg, "spin" selection). The biometric data may also be transmitted at the same time as the gameplay selection.

FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing the slot routine 1068. Referring to FIG. 28, at block 1070, it is determined whether the player has requested payment information (eg, detecting the receipt of a "see pay" data message by the game server 52). If yes, in block 1072, the routine displays one or more paytables on the display unit 170. At block 1074, it is determined whether the player has selected a payline (eg, by selecting one of the payline buttons 1060). For example, the routine determines if a data message has been received by the game server 52 as a result of the player pressing one of the payline selection buttons 460. If YES, in block 1076, the data corresponding to the payline selected by the player is stored in the memory (for example, the memory 406 of the game server controller 401). At block 1078, it is determined whether the player has selected one of the bet selection buttons 1062.

If YES, control is passed to block 1084. In block 1084, data corresponding to the amount bet for each payline is stored in the memory (for example, the memory of the game server controller 401).

At block 1086, it is determined whether the player has selected the "bet maximum" button 1066. For example, the routine determines if the game server 52 has received a "maximum bet" data message. If YES, control is passed to block 1088. At block 1088, bet data corresponding to the maximum permissible bet (including both payline data and bet data for each payline) is stored in memory (eg, memory of game server controller 401).

At block 1090, it is determined whether the player has selected the "spin" button 1064. For example, the routine determines if the game server 20 has received a "spin" data message. If YES, control is passed to block 1080. In block 1080, the biometric data is acquired from the player and checked whether it matches the biometric data of the registered user. For example, the game server 52 prompts the game unit 20 to acquire biometric data from the user and transmit the biometric data to the game server 52. The game unit 20 acquires biometric data by using a routine such as routine 620 (FIG. 15). Further, the game server 52 transmits the acquired biometric data to the authentication server 58, and requests the authentication server 58 to determine whether or not the biometric data matches the biometric data of the registered user. The authentication server 58 can use routines such as routine 770 (FIG. 19). In an embodiment that does not include the authentication server 58, the determination of whether the biometric data matches the biometric data of the registered user is determined by another computing device (eg, game server 52, network computer 22, game unit 20, etc.). Can be executed in. For example, the game unit 20 may compare the biometric data acquired from the player with the biometric data stored in the smart card.

In another embodiment, at block 1080, control is passed from the game server 52 to the authentication server 58, or to any computing system that implements block 1080. Then, in block 1082 or (if access is granted) block 1092, control returns to the game server 52.

If it is determined in step 1082 that access is not granted, the routine ends. If it is determined in block 1082 that access is granted, control proceeds to block 1092.

As mentioned above, the transmission of biometric data is incorporated into the determination of whether the player wants a "spin". For example, the player sends biometric data to request a "spin" or requests a "spin". As described above, the blocks 1090, 1080, and 1082 may be integrated, and the order thereof may be changed.

At block 1092, the routine initiates a "spin" on the slot machine reel image 1052, simulating an overview of the spinning mechanical slot machine reels. At block 1094, the routine determines where the slot machine reel image stops, or the image 1054 of the symbol that is displayed when the reel image 1052 stops spinning. At block 1096, the routine displays a stationary reel image 1052 and an image of the three symbols 1054 of each stopped reel image 1052 to stop spinning the reel image 1052. The virtual reels may be stopped from left to right as seen by the player, or may be stopped in any other way or order.

The routine may enable a bonus game or a bonus round if certain conditions are met, such as that the stopped reel image 1052 belongs to the symbol 1054. Under such bonus conditions determined in block 1098, the routine advances to block 1100 where the bonus round can be played. The bonus round may be another game that is not a slot, and may offer many other types of bonus games. If the player wins the bonus round or receives additional credits or points in the bonus round, the bonus amount is determined in block 1102. The payment amount corresponding to the outcome of the slot game and / or bonus round is determined in block 1104. In block 1108, if the player has deducted the bet and won the slot game and / or bonus round, the player's cumulative amount or number of credits is updated by adding the payment amount determined in block 1104.

If desired, a pair of blocks 1080 and 1082 may be added to other parts of the routine.

Kino FIG. 29 shows an example of a screen 1120 displayed on one display unit 170 of the game unit 20 (by a game server 52 that transmits display data to the game unit 20) during execution of the keno routine. With reference to FIG. 29, screen 1120 includes a plurality of numbered video images 1122 selected by the player prior to the start of the keno game and a plurality of numbered video images 1124 randomly selected during the keno game. Randomly selected numbers can be displayed in a grid.

Multiple player selectable buttons are displayed to let the player control the play of the keno game. Buttons include "Cash Out" button 1126, "View Pay" button 1128, "Bet 1 Credit" button 1130, "Bet Maximum Credit" button 1132, "Select Ticket" button 1134, "Select Number" Includes button 1136 and "play" button 1138. The screen 1120 includes an area 1140 in which the number of remaining credits or amount is displayed.

When the button is activated, the corresponding data message is transmitted from the game unit 20 to the game server 52. The data message is a source address that identifies the game unit 20 that sent the message, a destination address that identifies the game server 52 to which the message was sent, and data corresponding to buttons such as bet data and game command data. Has a data field containing.

Similar to the buttons described with reference to FIG. 23, in some embodiments, one or more of the buttons 1126, 1128, 1132, 1134, 1136, and 1138 may be integrated with the biometric device. .. For example, the "play" button may be integrated with the biometric device. For example, the "play" button may be integrated with the biometric device, as described for the "deal / draw" button in FIG. Alternatively, the player may be able to make a "play" selection by transmitting biometric data via the biometric device. Thus, as described above, the transmission of biometric data may be a mechanism that provides gameplay selection (eg, "play" selection). The biometric data may also be transmitted at the same time as the gameplay selection.

FIG. 30 is a flowchart showing the keno routine 1150. The keno routine 1150 is used by one game unit 20 when one player is playing a keno game, but is used by a plurality of game units 20 when a plurality of players are playing one keno game. May be good.

With reference to FIG. 30, at block 1152, the routine determines if the "see pay" button 1128 is selected. For example, the routine determines if the game server 20 has received a "see pay" data message. If yes, at block 154, the routine displays one or more paytables on the display unit 170. At block 1156, it is determined whether the player has selected a bet. For example, the routine determines whether the bet data has been received from the game unit 20 by receiving, for example, a "bet one credit" data message or a "bet maximum credit" data message. If yes, the routine proceeds to block 1162.

In block 1162, bet data corresponding to the bet made by the player is stored in memory (for example, the memory of the game server controller 401).

After placing a bet, the player selects a kino ticket in block 1164 and displays the ticket on screen 1120 in block 1166. At block 1168, the player selects a game number within the range set by the casino. When selected, the player's game number in block 1170 is stored in memory and included in image 1122 on screen 1120 in block 1172. After a certain period of time (when a plurality of players are playing one keno game using a plurality of game units 20), additional players cannot enter the keno game.

At block 1174, it is determined whether the play of the keno game has started. If yes, control is passed to block 1158. At block 1158, the biometric data is acquired from the player and checked to see if it matches the biometric data of the registered user. For example, the game server 52 prompts the game unit 20 to acquire biometric data from the user and transmit the biometric data to the game server 52. The game unit 20 acquires biometric data by using a routine such as routine 620 (FIG. 15). Further, the game server 52 transmits the acquired biometric data to the authentication server 58, and requests the authentication server 58 to determine whether or not the biometric data matches the biometric data of the registered user. The authentication server 58 can use routines such as routine 770 (FIG. 19). In an embodiment that does not include the authentication server 58, the determination of whether the biometric data matches the biometric data of the registered user is determined by another computing device (eg, game server 52, network computer 22, game unit 20, etc.). Can be executed in. For example, the game unit 20 may compare the biometric data acquired from the player with the biometric data stored in the smart card.

In another embodiment, at block 1158, control is passed from the game server 52 to the authentication server 58, or to any computing system that implements block 1158. Next, in block 1160, control is returned to the game server 52.

If the biometric data matches that of the registered user and optionally the user identified in the biometric data is allowed to play, control is passed to block 1176. The routine ends when the biometric data does not match the biometric data of the registered user who is allowed to play. Before exiting, the player is shown a screen indicating that access to play the game has been denied. Optionally, the screen may indicate why access was denied. Also, instead of terminating, the routine may return to block 1152.

As mentioned above, the transmission of biometric data is incorporated into the determination of whether the player wants to "play". For example, the player sends biometric data to request "play" or requests "play". As described above, the blocks 1174, 1158, and 1160 may be integrated, and the order thereof may be changed.

At block 1176, game numbers within the range set by the casino are randomly selected (eg, by the game server controller 401). In block 1178, a randomly selected game number is displayed on the display unit 170 of the game unit 20 associated with the same keno game. In block 1180, increment the count that tracks how many game numbers are selected. For example, the game server controller 401 increments the count.

At block 1182, the routine determines if the maximum number of game numbers within that range has been randomly selected. If NO, another game number is randomly selected in block 1176. If the maximum number of game numbers has been selected, in block 1184, the routine has a sufficient number of matches between the game number selected by the player and the game number selected in block 1176, and has the player won? to decide. The number of matches depends on how many players choose and the rules of the kino used.

If there are a sufficient number of matches, the payment is determined in block 1186 for the player's win. Payment is determined by the number of matches between the game number selected by the player and the game number randomly selected in block 1176. In block 1188, the player's cumulative amount or number of credits is updated by subtracting the bet made by the player and, if winning the keno game, adding the payment amount determined in block 1186. The cumulative amount or number of credits is also displayed in display area 1140 (FIG. 29).

If desired, a pair of blocks 1158 and 1160 may be added to the rest of the routine. For example, a similar pair may be added between blocks 1156 and 1162.

Bingo FIG. 31 shows an example of a screen 1200 displayed on one display unit 170 of the game unit 20 (for example, by a game server 52 that transmits display data to the game unit 20) during execution of the bingo routine. With reference to FIG. 31, the screen 1200 includes a video image 1202 of the bingo card and an image of the bingo number selected during the game. The bingo card image 1202 may be in a grid pattern.

Multiple player selectable buttons are displayed to let the player control the play of the bingo game. The buttons include a "cash out" button 1204, a "view pay" button 1206, a "bet one credit" button 1208, a "bet maximum credit" button 1210, a "select card" button 1212, and a "play" button. 1214 is included. The screen 1200 includes an area 1216 in which the number of remaining credits or amount is displayed.

When the button is activated, the corresponding data message is transmitted from the game unit 20 to the game server 52. The data message is a source address that identifies the game unit 20 that sent the message, a destination address that identifies the game server 52 to which the message was sent, and data corresponding to buttons such as bet data and game command data. Has a data field containing.

Similar to the buttons described with reference to FIG. 23, in some embodiments, one or more of the buttons 1204, 1206, 1208, 1210, 1212, and 1214 may be integrated with the biometric device. .. For example, the "play" button may be integrated with the biometric device. For example, the "play" button may be integrated with the biometric device, as described for the "deal / draw" button in FIG. Alternatively, the player may be able to make a "play" selection by transmitting biometric data via the biometric device. Thus, as described above, the transmission of biometric data may be a mechanism that provides gameplay selection (eg, "play" selection). The biometric data may also be transmitted at the same time as the gameplay selection.

FIG. 32 is a flowchart showing the Bingo routine 1220. Bingo routine 1220 is used in one game unit 20 when one player is playing a bingo game, but in multiple game units 20 when multiple players are playing one bingo game. It may be used. With reference to FIG. 32, at block 1222, it is determined whether the player is requesting payment information. This is determined, for example, by detecting the receipt of a "see pay" data message from the game unit 20. If yes, at block 1224, the routine causes one or more paytables to be displayed on the display unit 170 of the game unit 20. At block 1226, it is determined whether the player has requested a bet. This is determined, for example, by detecting the receipt of a "bet one credit" data message or a "bet maximum credit" data message. If YES, control is passed to block 1232.

In block 1232, bet data corresponding to the bet made by the player is stored in the memory (for example, the memory of the game server controller 401).

When the player makes a bet, he selects a bingo card in block 1234. This bingo card is randomly generated. The player may select one or more bingo cards, or the player may set a maximum number of bingo cards that can be selected. At block 1236, the selected card is displayed on the display unit 170.

At block 1238, determine whether to start playing the bingo game. If YES, control is passed to block 1228. At block 1228, the biometric data is acquired from the player and checked to see if it matches the biometric data of the registered user. For example, the game server 52 prompts the game unit 20 to acquire biometric data from the user and transmit the biometric data to the game server 52. The game unit 20 acquires biometric data by using a routine such as routine 620 (FIG. 15). Further, the game server 52 transmits the acquired biometric data to the authentication server 58, and requests the authentication server 58 to determine whether or not the biometric data matches the biometric data of the registered user. The authentication server 58 can use routines such as routine 770 (FIG. 19). In an embodiment that does not include the authentication server 58, the determination of whether the biometric data matches the biometric data of the registered user is determined by another computing device (eg, game server 52, network computer 22, game unit 20, etc.). Can be executed in. For example, the game unit 20 may compare the biometric data acquired from the player with the biometric data stored in the smart card.

In another embodiment, at block 1228a, control is passed from the game server 52 to the authentication server 58, or to any computing system that implements block 1028a. Next, in block 1230, control is returned to the game server 52.

If the biometric data matches that of a registered user and optionally the user identified in the biometric data is allowed to play, control is passed to block 1240. The routine ends when the biometric data does not match the biometric data of the registered user who is allowed to play. Before exiting, the player is shown a screen indicating that access to play the game has been denied. Optionally, the screen may indicate why access was denied. Also, instead of terminating, the routine may return to block 1222.

As mentioned above, the transmission of biometric data is incorporated into the determination of whether the player wants to "play". For example, the player sends biometric data to request "play" or requests "play". As described above, the blocks 1238, 1228, and 1230 may be integrated, and the order thereof may be changed.

At block 1240, Bingo numbers are randomly generated by the routine. In block 1242, the bingo number is displayed on the display unit 170 of the game unit 20 and on the display unit 170 of the other game units 20 related to the bingo game.

At block 1244, the routine determines if any player has won the bingo game. If no player wins, another bingo number is randomly selected in block 1240. If any player bingoes at the decision in block 1244, in block 1246 the routine determines if the player playing in that game unit 20 has won. If so, at block 1248, the payment to that player is determined. Payment depends on the number of random numbers drawn before winning, the total number of winners (if there are two or more players), and the amount bet on the game. In block 1250, if the player wins the bingo game by subtracting the bet made by the player, the player's cumulative amount or number of credits is updated by adding the payment amount determined in block 1248. The cumulative amount or number of credits is also displayed in the display area 1216 (FIG. 31).

If desired, a pair of blocks 1228 and 1230 may be added to other parts of the routine. For example, a similar pair may be added between blocks 1226 and 1232.

In the example described with reference to FIGS. 23-32, for example, when checking biometric data, the position of the game unit 20 is arbitrarily checked by using a routine such as routine 750 (FIG. 18).

Game Routines Implemented in Game Units The routines described above with reference to FIGS. 23-32 have been described for implementation via one or more game servers 52, but each of these routines has no game server. May be implemented on the game unit 20. For example, the poker routine of FIG. 24 will be described when it is implemented in the game unit 20. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that other game routines can be performed on the game unit 20 as well.

Here, with reference to FIG. 23, the player selectable buttons 952, 954, 955, 956, 957 and 958 are buttons displayed on, for example, a display unit 170 or the like. Depending on the type of button to be used, it can be selected, for example, by pressing a button, pressing an area of the touch screen screen, and selecting with a mouse, a joystick, or the like. Also, as described above, the transmission of biometric data may be a mechanism that provides gameplay selection (eg, "play" selection). Also, the biometric data (and optionally the position data) may be transmitted at the same time as the gameplay selection.

Referring to FIG. 24, in block 964, when a player activates, for example, a "view pay" button 955 to request payout information, in block 966 the routine displays one or more paytables on the display of game unit 20. Displayed on the unit 170.

At block 968, the player attempts to bet, for example, by selecting the "Bet 1 Credit" button 956. In block 976, bet data corresponding to the bet made by the player is stored in the memory (for example, the memory of the game unit controller 200).

At block 978, the routine determines if the player has activated the "Bet Maximum Credits" button 957. If YES, control is passed to block 980. In block 980, bet data corresponding to the bet made by the player is stored in the memory (for example, the memory of the game unit controller 200).

At block 982, the routine determines if the player wants a deal for a new card (eg, detecting the selection of the "deal / draw" button 958). If YES, control proceeds to block 970. At block 970, the biometric data is acquired from the player and checked to see if it matches the biometric data of the registered user. For example, the game unit 20 acquires biometric data from the user, transmits the biometric data to the authentication server 58, and determines whether the biometric data matches the biometric data of the registered user. To request. The authentication server 58 can use routines such as routine 770 (FIG. 19). In an embodiment that does not include the authentication server 58, the determination of whether the biometric data matches the biometric data of the registered user can be performed by another computing device (eg, network computer 22, game unit 20, etc.). .. For example, the game unit 20 may compare the biometric data acquired from the player with the biometric data stored in the smart card.

In another embodiment, at block 970, control is passed from the game unit 20 to the authentication server 58, or to any computing system that implements block 970. Next, in block 972, control is returned to the game unit 20.

If the biometric data matches that of the registered user and optionally the user identified in the biometric data is allowed to play, control is passed to block 984. The routine ends when the biometric data does not match the biometric data of the registered user who is allowed to play. Before exiting, the player is shown a screen indicating that access to play the game has been denied. Optionally, the screen may indicate why access was denied. Also, instead of terminating, the routine may return to block 964.

As mentioned above, the transmission of biometric data is incorporated into the determination of whether the player wants to deal a new move. For example, when a player sends or requests biometric data for a request, he deals a new move. In this way, the blocks 982, 970, 972 may be integrated, and the order thereof may be changed.

At block 984, the display unit 170 is made to generate a playcard image 951 to "deal" the hand of video poker. After dealing the hand, at block 986, the routine determines if the player has selected the "hold" button 952. If YES, in block 388, data regarding which play card image 951 is “held” is stored in a memory (for example, the memory of the game unit controller 200).

If in block 990 it is determined that the user has selected the "deal / draw" button 958, in block 992 each playcard image 951 that is not "held" disappears from the video display 950 and a new randomly selected playcard. Replaces image 951.

At block 994, the routine determines if the poker hand represented by the currently displayed playcard image 951 is winning. The determination is made by comparing the currently displayed poker hand with all possible winning hand washing data stored in memory (eg, the memory of the game unit controller 200). If there is a winner, in block 996, the payment amount corresponding to the winner is determined. In block 998, the player's bet is subtracted, and if the player wins, the player's cumulative amount or number of credits is updated by adding the payment amount determined in block 996. The cumulative amount or number of credits is also displayed in the display area 959 (FIG. 23).

In the above description, various methods have been described with reference to the flow chart. Each of these methods can be performed in software, hardware, and / or firmware in whole or in part. When implemented entirely or partially in software, the software can be stored on tangible media such as CD-ROMs, floppy (registered trademark) disks, hard disk drives, DVDs, ROMs, and the like.

Moreover, although the above examples have been described with reference to various flow diagrams, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many other methods can be used as alternatives. For example, different levels of authentication can be used as an alternative. As an example, small bets require the transmission of biometric data corresponding to one fingerprint, while large bets require the transmission of fingerprints of different fingers, or the transmission of eye scans in addition to fingerprint scans. You may. Further, the execution order of the blocks may be changed, and a part or all of the blocks may be changed, deleted, or combined.

In various embodiments, the gaming device can be used for purchase. In various embodiments, mobile gaming devices can also be used for purchase. The gaming device displays and / or stores the balance of casino credits, cash, comp points, and other valuable currencies. This currency can be used to buy jewelry, food, spa admission, and other goods and services. In various embodiments, the user can bring the mobile game unit into the store. The user selects a product to buy. Price information for the item is sent to the mobile game unit. Prices can be sent in a variety of ways. The mobile game unit may detect the RFID tag of the product. RFID tags transmit a signal indicating the price of the item. The mobile game unit may receive price information from the POS terminal of the store. For example, the mobile game unit and the POS terminal can communicate via wireless communication (for example, infrared communication). The mobile game unit can also receive price information via one or more networks or network devices. The mobile game unit receives price information from game servers, website servers, and other servers through the casino network. The mobile game unit can also receive price information via other networks, such as retail networks. For example, the mobile game unit may receive price information transmitted from the POS terminal to other devices in the retail network, devices in the casino network, and the mobile game unit. Upon receiving the price information, or without receiving the price information, the mobile gaming device can ask the user whether to pay the price of the item. The user responds whether to pay. For example, the user presses a button on a mobile game unit. One button indicates consent and one button indicates disagreement. If the user agrees, they will be prompted to enter biometric data. For example, the user is asked to put his thumb on the biometric reader that accompanies the mobile game unit. The user's biometric data is sent, for example, to an authentication server and used to authenticate the user. Once the user is authenticated, money, credits and other currencies can be deducted from the user's account. For example, deduct game credits from the user's credit balance. Game credits and other currencies deducted from the user are added to the balance of retailers and other organizations from which the user makes purchases. In various embodiments, the same amount is added to the balance of the retail store or other organization. Thus, in various embodiments, the user uses biometric inputs to authorize the purchase procedure. You may trade using game credits, compensation points, and other casino-related currencies. In various embodiments, the transaction is made using the credits won by the user while playing on a gaming device (such as a mobile game unit). In various embodiments, public trading can be done with any gaming device. Users may approve purchases through slot machines, video poker machines, and other gaming devices. To consent, the user provides a biometric input such as a fingerprint. In various embodiments, the user can make purchases from the Internet via a gaming device. The user is asked if he / she can inquire about the price or agree to a certain price to make a purchase. The user provides a biometric input to approve the purchase. Game credits equivalent to the price will be deducted from the user's account. Equivalent money is sent to the retail store where the purchase was made. In various embodiments, the casino is responsible for enabling transactions (eg, transmitting information between a user's gaming device and a retail store's server on the Internet), for example, as much as 2% of the purchase price. You may take the fee.

In various embodiments, the user indicates the product to be purchased, indicates the price to be paid for the product, is asked to purchase the product and approves it, an input button or other input indicating that the user wants to purchase the product. You can make a purchase selection when you indicate to a game unit via a mechanic, or when you indicate that you want to purchase.

In various embodiments, permission to make a purchase selection includes permission to allow a person to make a purchase. Permitting a purchase choice includes having a person pay for a product or service using an account or balance, and having that person receive the product or service.

In various embodiments, the user provides a biometric input to approve a credit card transaction. The user supplies the game unit with biometric inputs, which sends data about the biometric inputs to other devices on the network. If the biometric input matches the biometric already associated with the user's credit card, the credit card transaction is approved. Various embodiments can also be applied to transactions with debit cards, smart cards, and charge cards performed by game units.

In various embodiments, the user provides biometrics to approve payments made by a game unit, such as a mobile game unit.

In various embodiments, the user is required to provide biometric authentication when he / she presents a play or decision that is considered to be a bad strategy. In games such as video poker and blackjack, users have the opportunity to play that has a significant impact on their chances of winning or losing. When there are multiple possible plays, rank those plays according to certain criteria. For example, play is ranked by the value expected as a result of it. The user chooses a play that ranks lower in the ranking of possible plays (eg, lower ranking by expected win) and is required to provide biometric input before the user's decision becomes effective. In various embodiments, a user who chooses to play a score or ranking that deviates from the optimal score or top ranking to some extent is prompted to enter a biometric input before the user's decision becomes valid. For example, the user is required to enter biometrics when making a decision in a game where a $ 5 win can be expected, or when selecting a play where only a $ 4 or less win can be expected. In various embodiments, asking the user for biometric input before playing "bad" helps ensure that the user is really the person making the decision, not the other person.

In various embodiments, the user is required to enter biometrics when claiming jackpots or other large payments or winnings. In various embodiments, the user is awarded the jackpot only when the biometric input provided when claiming the jackpot matches the biometric input provided to the game unit prior to the jackpot game. In various embodiments, if a game unit is registered for a user who has recorded biometric inputs, the jackpot exited by that game device can only be claimed by the user who provided the matching biometric inputs. ..

In various embodiments, the user is prompted for biometric input in order to initiate a sequence of automatic play of the game. For example, the user can request the game device to automatically play 100 games without inputting anything. The game unit can request biometric input to start the sequence. When the biometric input is authenticated (for example, if the biometric input matches the biometric input provided by the user who first registered the biometric input in association with the game unit), the sequence of automated games begins. In various embodiments, a biometric input must be provided to stop the sequence of auto-generated games before the sequence is complete.

In various embodiments, the user is required to provide a biometric input in order to make a call from the unit. Once the biometric input is authenticated, the user can make a call. The unit can, for example, send and receive wireless signals to and from a cellular base station, convert audio and electronic signals using a microphone and speaker, and make a call.

In various embodiments, the player is allowed or prohibited from making purchases by the game unit based on the position of the game unit. For example, when the game unit is in the first position, the purchase is allowed, but when the game unit is in the second position, the purchase is denied. For example, casinos dedicate some shops to premium players. Thus, players attempting to pay by mobile gaming units in those premium shops may be denied it. In various embodiments, valid biometrics and valid status are required for the purchase to be approved.

The following notes will be added to the various embodiments described above.
(Appendix 1) With a portable display unit
An input device that receives game selections from the player,
It has a display unit, an input device, and a controller operably coupled to the biometric device, the controller having a processor and a memory operably coupled to the processor.
The controller
Receive a stake to play the game paid through a gambling account tied to a gambling institution,
Receive a request from the player to purchase at least one product or service with a credit card account linked to a non-gambling institution other than the gambling institution, and the request is a signal from a point of sale terminal outside the gambling zone. Sent by
In response to the purchase request, the player is requested to enter biometric data in order to authenticate access to the player's credit card account.
Receive biometric data from the player
Based on the biometric data received, it is calculated whether the player is allowed access to the credit card account.
A video image relating to the game is generated on the display unit.
A gaming device programmed to calculate monetary payments from the outcome of the game.
(Appendix 2) The controller is operably connected to the network and is connected to the network.
The received biometric data is transmitted to the authentication server via the network, and the biometric data is transmitted to the authentication server.
A message indicating that the player is permitted to purchase at least one product or service is received from the authentication server via the network, and the message is that the biometric data is transmitted to the authentication server. Received in response,
The game device according to Appendix 1.
(Supplementary note 3) The game device according to Supplementary note 2, wherein the message from the authentication server indicates that the received biometric data matches the biometric data of the player.
(Appendix 4) The game apparatus according to Appendix 1, wherein the game is a game selected from a group consisting of video poker, video blackjack, video slots, video keno, and video bingo.
(Appendix 5) Further, a position detecting device operably coupled to the controller is provided.
The controller
The position data indicating the position of the game device is received from the position detection device, and the position data is received.
The location data is transmitted to the authentication server via the network,
The program and configuration are configured to receive a message from the authentication server over the network, indicating that the player is authorized to play the game, at least in part based on the location data.
The game device according to Appendix 1.
(Supplementary Note 6) The game device according to Supplementary Note 5, wherein the message from the authentication server indicates that the position of the game device is an permitted position.
(Appendix 7) Further, it has a smart card reader operably coupled to the controller.
The controller
Compare the received biometric data with the biometric data stored in the smart card and compare
The program and configuration are configured to disallow the purchase selection when the received biometric data does not match the biometric data stored on the smart card.
The game device according to Appendix 1.
(Appendix 8) Further, it has an amount input device for receiving currency from the player.
The controller is programmed to deposit the currency into a balanced account tied to a non-gambling institution.
The game device according to Appendix 1.
(Supplementary Note 9) Further, the game device according to Supplementary Note 1, further comprising a connector configured to detachably connect the biometric device to the game device.
(Appendix 10) The game apparatus according to Appendix 1, wherein the biometric device has a fingerprint scanner.
(Appendix 11) The fingerprint scanner has integrated buttons.
The controller is configured to determine that the player has made the purchase selection when the button is activated.
The game device according to Appendix 10.
(Appendix 12) The game device according to Appendix 10, wherein the fingerprint scanner is integrated with a touch screen.
(Appendix 13) The controller is operably coupled to the network and
The controller
A signal indicating the price of the at least one product or service is programmed to be received from the RFID tag associated with the at least one product or service via the network.
The game device according to Appendix 1.
(Appendix 14) The game device according to Appendix 1, wherein the signal indicates the price of the at least one product or service.
(Appendix 15) The controller is operably coupled to the network and
The controller
Receive a request to make a call over the network
Further programmed to require the player to enter biometric data in response to receiving the call request.
The game device according to Appendix 1.
(Appendix 16) The controller is
The received biometric data is transmitted to the authentication server via the network, and the biometric data is transmitted to the authentication server.
A message indicating that the player is allowed to make a call is received from the authentication server over the network, and the message is received in response to the biometric data being sent to the authentication server. ,
The game device according to Appendix 15, which is further programmed to.
(Appendix 17) When the processor of the portable display unit receives the game selection from the player,
When the processor receives a stake to play the game paid through a gambling account tied to a gambling institution.
The processor receives a request from the player to purchase at least one product or service from the player with a credit card account linked to a non-gambling institution other than the gambling institution, the request being a point of sale outside the gambling zone. The stage of transmission by the signal from the terminal and
In response to the purchase request, the remote device and the remote device send a request to the remote device requesting the player to enter biometric data in order to authenticate access to the player's credit card account. When the processor communicates over the network,
When the processor receives biometric data from the player,
A step in which the processor calculates a determination that the player is granted access to the credit card account based on the biometric data received.
When the processor produces a video image of the game on the display unit,
A method having a step of calculating a monetary payment from the result of the game.
(Appendix 18) With a portable display unit
An input device that receives game selections from the player,
It has a display unit, an input device, and a controller operably coupled to the biometric device, the controller having a processor and a memory operably coupled to the processor.
The controller
Receive a stake to play the game paid through a gambling account tied to a gambling institution,
Receive a request from the player to purchase at least one product or service with a credit card account linked to a non-gambling institution other than the gambling institution, and the request is a signal from a point of sale terminal outside the gambling zone. Sent by
In response to the purchase request, the player is requested to enter biometric data in order to authenticate access to the player's credit card account.
Receive biometric data from the player
Based on the biometric data received, it is calculated whether the player is allowed access to the credit card account.
A signal indicating the price of the at least one product or service is received from the RFID tag associated with the at least one product or service via the network.
A video image relating to the game is generated on the display unit.
A gaming device programmed to calculate monetary payments from the outcome of the game.

Claims (22)

With the display unit
Input device and
With biometric devices
At least one processor
Receive a request to purchase an item online, using the credits you have accumulated while playing the game
Upon request, a prompt for entering biometric data via the biometric device is displayed.
Receive biometric data via the biometric device
The biometric data is compared with a given biometric data and
Identify the current location of the device and
Depending on the determination that the biometric data matches the predetermined biometric data and the determination that the device is allowed to purchase the goods at the current position, the gaming server Start communication, start the purchase ,
Receive price information from the RFID of the product
Displaying the price information on the display unit,
With at least one processor,
apparatus. The at least one processor further
Receive a stake to play the game
A video image of the game is configured to be rendered on the display unit.
The device according to claim 1. The biometric device has a card reader.
The device according to claim 2. The card reader is configured to read a card containing the biometric data.
The device according to claim 3. The biometric data includes fingerprints,
The device according to claim 1. The biometric device includes a touch screen.
The device according to claim 1. The at least one processor is configured to send the current location to the authentication server.
The device according to claim 1. The at least one processor is configured to receive information from the authentication server that the device is authorized to access the game when in said current position.
The device according to claim 7. The at least one processor is configured to send the biometric data to an authentication server.
The device according to claim 1. The at least one processor is configured to receive information from the authentication server that the biometric data matches the predetermined biometric data.
The device according to claim 9. The predetermined biometric data is encrypted,
The device according to claim 1. At least one processor will use the credits accumulated while playing the game to receive a request to purchase an item online.
The at least one processor prompts for input of biometric data via the biometric device in response to the request.
When the at least one processor receives the biometric data via the biometric device,
When the at least one processor compares the biometric data with a predetermined biometric data,
The at least one processor identifies the current position of the device and
The at least one processor determines that the biometric data matches the predetermined biometric data, and the device determines that the device is allowed to purchase the goods at the current position. Correspondingly, the communication with the gaming server is started to start the purchase, and
When the at least one processor receives the price information from the RFID of the product,
The at least one processor comprises displaying the price information on a display unit .
Method. When the at least one processor receives a stake to play the game,
The at least one processor further comprises rendering the video image associated with the game onto the display unit.
The method according to claim 12. The biometric device has a card reader.
13. The method of claim 13. Further, the at least one processor includes reading a card containing the biometric data through the card reader.
14. The method of claim 14. The biometric data includes fingerprints,
The method according to claim 12. The biometric device includes a touch screen.
The method according to claim 12. Further, the at least one processor includes transmitting the current position to the authentication server.
The method according to claim 12. Further, the at least one processor includes receiving information from the authentication server that the device is authorized to access the game when it is in the current position.
18. The method of claim 18. In addition, the at least one processor comprises transmitting the biometric data to an authentication server.
The method according to claim 12. Further, the at least one processor includes receiving information that the biometric data matches the predetermined biometric data.
The method of claim 20. The predetermined biometric data is encrypted,
The method according to claim 12.

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