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Jackpot interfaces and services on a gaming machine Download PDFInfo
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- CN101128850A CN101128850ACNA2006800056890ACN200680005689ACN101128850ACN 101128850 ACN101128850 ACN 101128850ACN A2006800056890 ACNA2006800056890 ACN A2006800056890ACN 200680005689 ACN200680005689 ACN 200680005689ACN 101128850 ACN101128850 ACN 101128850A
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- Criticalpatent/CN101128850A/en
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- Criticalpatent/CN101128850B/en
- G—PHYSICS
- G07F—COIN-FREED OR LIKE APPARATUS
- G07F17/32—Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articles; Coin-freed facilities or services for games, toys, sports or amusements, e.g. casino games, online gambling or betting
- G07F17/3258—Cumulative reward schemes, e.g. jackpots
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Abstract
Translated from ChineseDescription
Translated from Chinese游戏机上的累积奖金界面和服务背景技术本发明涉及一种用于例如视频投币机和视频扑克机的游戏机的玩游戏的方法。 Jackpot service interface and Background The present invention relates to a method for the gaming machine playing a game, for example, the video slot gaming machines and video poker machines are.更具体地，本发明涉及用于在游戏机上提供玩家跟踪服务和相关游戏服务的方法和装置。 More particularly, the present invention relates to a method and apparatus for providing player tracking services and related gaming services on a gaming machine.目前已经存在多种能够与例如投币机或视频扑克机的游戏机相连接的相关装置。 A variety of related devices capable of gaming machine such as a slot machine or a video poker machine is connected to already exist.这些装置的一些示例为玩家跟踪单元、灯、票单打印机、读卡器、扬声器、纸币识别器、票单阅读器、硬币接收器、显示面板、键区、退币器以及按钮盘。 Some examples of these devices are player tracking units, lights, ticket printers, card readers, speakers, bill validators, ticket readers, coin acceptors, display panels, keypad, coin hoppers and button plate.这些装置中的许多种是被嵌入游戏机中或者是与游戏机相联系的部件，例如通常位于游戏机顶部的顶盒。 Many species are embedded in a gaming machine or components associated with the gaming machine such devices, for example, typically located on top of the gaming machine top box.典型地，利用主游戏控制器，该游戏机控制装置的各种组合，其允许玩家在游戏机上玩游戏，并且还鼓励在游戏机上玩游戏。 Typically, utilizing a master gaming controller, the gaming machine controls various combinations of devices that allow a player to play a game on the gaming machine and also encourage game play on the gaming machine.例如，在游戏机上所玩的游戏通常需要玩家将货币或者信用标记输入游戏机中，指出投注量，并开始玩游戏。 For example, in the gaming machine to play games usually require players to enter the currency or credit mark gaming machine, indicate a wager amount, and start playing the game.这些步骤需要游戏机控制包括纸币识别器和硬币接收器的输入装置，以将货币接收入游戏机中并识别来自例如按钮盘和控制杆的装置的用户输入，以确定投注量并开始玩游戏。 These steps require the gaming machine to control input means comprises a bill validator and a coin receiver, to the money received into the gaming machine and recognize user input device such as buttons and levers from the disc to determine the wager amount and initiate game play.开始玩游戏后，游戏机确定游戏结果，把游戏结果显示给玩家，并可以根据游戏结果分发某种类型的奖品。 After start playing games, gaming machine determines a game outcome, the result of the game to the player, and can be distributed based on some type of prize game results.游戏结果的表示可以利用许多不同的视频和音频部件，例如闪光灯、音乐、声音和图形。 It represents the result of the game can use many different video and audio components, such as flash, music, sound and graphics.游戏结果表示的视频和音频部件可以用于吸引玩家注意各种游戏特征并提高玩家对附加玩游戏的兴趣。 Video and audio components can be used to represent the results of the game to attract players to pay attention to various game features and improve the player's interest to play additional games.保持游戏玩家例如在游戏机上或者在其它游戏活动期间对玩游戏的兴趣，对于游戏设施的经营者是重要的需要考虑的事项。 For example, players keep the game at a gaming machine or during other gaming activities interested in playing games, for an amusement facility operators are important considerations.获得并保持游戏玩家对玩游戏的兴趣的一个相关方法是在各种游艺场所中提供玩家跟踪程序。 A related method to obtain and keep gamers interested in playing the game is to provide player tracking program in various entertainment locations.玩家跟踪程序向玩家提供奖励，该奖励典型地对应于玩家的光顾程度（例如，对应于在给定游艺场所中玩家玩的频率和/或玩游戏的总量）。 Player tracking programs provide rewards to players that typically correspond to the bonus level of patronage player (e.g., corresponding to frequency and / or total amount of game play in a given casino players to play).玩家跟踪奖励可以是免费餐、免费住宿和/或免费娱乐。 Player tracking rewards may be free meals, free accommodation and / or free entertainment.这些奖励可以有助于保持游戏玩家在访问游戏设施期间对附加玩游戏的兴趣，并且可以促 These incentives can help to keep gamers interested in additional game play during a visit to the game site and can promote
使访问游戏设施的玩家参与到各种游戏活动中。 Players make the game accessible facility to participate in various activities and games.通常，玩家跟踪程序可以被应用于在游戏设施中提供的任何机会游戏中。 Typically, the player tracking program can be applied to any game of chance in the game provided the facility.特别是，玩家跟踪程序在机械投币游戏机和视频投币游戏机的玩家中非常流行。 In particular, player tracking program is very popular among the players mechanical slot machines and video slot gaming machines.在游戏机中，使用安装在游戏机中并与远程玩家跟踪服务器通信的玩家跟踪单元来执行玩家跟踪程序。 In the gaming machine, a player tracking is performed and the installation program with the player tracking unit communicating with a remote player tracking server in the gaming machine.通常将玩家跟踪单元制造成与游戏机分离的售后市场器件。 The player tracking units are usually manufactured as separate gaming machine aftermarket device.许多不同的公司将玩家跟踪单元生产为玩家跟踪/记帐系统的一部分。 Many different companies will be part of the player tracking unit production as player tracking / accounting systems.这些玩家跟踪/记帐系统用在大多数游艺场所中。 These player tracking / accounting system used in most casinos in.大多数游艺场所仅利用一种类型的玩家跟踪系统（即来自一个制造商），而玩家跟踪系统的类型随着游艺场所的不同而变化。 Most casino using only one type of player tracking system (that is, from a manufacturer), and the type of player tracking systems vary from casino varies.玩家跟踪卡和玩家跟踪程序正变得越来越受流行。 Player tracking card and player tracking procedures are becoming more and more popular.它们已经成为游艺场所营业的实际上的营销方法。 They have become the de facto method of marketing of the casino business.这些程序可以让游艺场所基于顾客以前玩游戏的历史记录而识别并奖励该顾客。 These programs allow a casino and to identify and reward the customer based on customer history before playing the game.特别是，游艺场所的目标是识别为对该游艺场所尤其有价值的一定玩家群，然后向识别为该玩家群提供较高水平的服务。 In particular, the goal is to identify casino is especially valuable to the casino a certain group of players, and then provide a higher level of service to identified as the player base.游艺场所提供这些服务的动机是产生'品牌'忠诚度，由此重复来自其尊贵顾客的生意。 Entertainment venues are motivated to provide these services have a 'brand' loyalty, and thus repeat business from its valued customers.例如，平均每个星期光临一次游艺场所的玩家可以被认为是'特别'顾客，游艺场所可以希望与这些顾客培养'特别'关系。 For example, an average of once a week to visit a casino player can be considered 'special' customers, casinos may be hope these customers training 'special' relationship.通常，通过例如玩家跟踪程序的忠诚计划提供给玩家的游戏服务的选择正在增加。 Typically, the service provided to the player of the game through loyalty programs such as player tracking program options are expanding.而且，基于特定玩家的要求，提供给特定玩家的游戏服务正变得更加集中。 Moreover, based on the specific requirements of the player, the player of the game provided to a particular service is becoming more concentrated.在过去，玩家跟踪单元最初被设计为让玩家输入磁条卡并可以用键区输入识别码。 In the past, a player tracking unit was originally designed to allow players to enter the magnetic stripe card and PIN can be entered using the keypad.因此，已设计成执行这些任务的玩家跟踪单元界面，典型地包括键区、读卡器和例如LED的简易显示器。 Thus, player tracking units have been designed to interface to perform these tasks, typically includes a keypad, a card reader and a simple example of the LED display.因此，现有玩家跟踪单元的缺点在于不一定适用于向游戏玩家提供根据玩家个人的喜好而定制的日益复杂和多样的游戏服务。 Therefore, the existing player tracking drawback is that the unit does not necessarily apply to a player based on providing customized personal preferences increasingly complex and diverse gaming services to gamers.综上所述，需要提供用于玩家跟踪单元界面的装置和方法，其允许向在游戏机上玩游戏的玩家提供各种游戏服务。 In summary, a need to provide apparatus and methods for a player tracking unit interface, which allows to provide various game services to game play on the gaming machine player.发明内容本发明通过提供具有触摸屏显示器的玩家跟踪单元致力于解决上述需要， 该触摸屏显示器具有集成入触摸屏传感器组件中的触摸屏控制器。 The present invention by providing a touch screen display of the player tracking unit to solve the aforementioned needs, the touchscreen display having a touch screen integrated into a sensor assembly of the touch screen controller.在触摸屏显示器上可以呈现允许用户获得一种或者多种游戏服务的游戏服务界面。 On the touch screen display may be presented to allow the user to obtain one or more gaming service game service interface.该游戏 The game
服务界面可以包括具有字母-数字符号的按钮、功能键和能够识别来自触摸屏传感器的输入数据的手写识别性能。 Service interface may include letters - a push button numeric symbols, function keys and able to recognize input data from the touch screen sensor performance handwriting recognition.由此，使用触摸屏传感器，用户可以浏览游戏服务界面并提供获得游戏服务器所需要的游戏信息。 Thus, using the touch screen sensor, users can browse the gaming service interface and provide game information needed to get the game server.游戏机具备的界面类型包括：损害最小化界面，用于帮助玩家在游戏机上玩游戏时遵守一个或多个玩游戏的限制；累积奖金界面，用于显示玩家选择的一个或多个累积奖金；以及方位界面，用于指向玩家至兴趣位置。 Game consoles have the interface types include: minimizing harm interface to help players comply with the limits one or more of playing the game when playing games on consoles; jackpot interface for displaying the player to select one or more of the jackpot; and azimuth interface for players to point to the location of interest.本发明的一个方面在于提供一种游戏机。 One aspect of the invention is to provide a gaming machine.该游戏机的一般特征在于可以包括：O主游戏控制器，设计或构造为产生并控制在游戏机上玩的机会游戏；2) 输入机构，在主游戏控制器的控制之下，用于接收对机会游戏的结果进行投注所用的现金或者信用标记；3)输出机构，在主游戏控制器的控制之下，用于输出所述现金和信用标记，其中信用标记可兌换为现金；4)存储器，用于存储产生损害最小化界面所用的软件指令，其中，所述损害最小化界面用于帮助玩家遵守一个或多个玩游戏的限制；以及5)第一显示器，用于显示包括损害最小化界面的游戏服务界面。 The general features of the gaming machine that may include: O master gaming controller, designed or configured to generate and control the play of the game of chance on the gaming machine; 2) input means, under the control of the master gaming controller, for receiving the results of the game of chance bets cash or indicia of credit used; 3) an output mechanism under control of the master gaming controller for outputting the cash and credit marker, wherein indicia of credit may be redeemable for cash; 4) memory for storing the generated damage minimizing interface software instructions used, wherein the interface is used to minimize damage to help players to comply with one or more game play limits; and 5) a first display for displaying a damage minimizing the game interface service interface.触摸屏可以与第一显示器结合。 The touch screen may be combined with the first display.进一步，机会游戏可以选自：视频投币游戏、机械投币游戏、视频二i^一点游戏、视频扑克游戏、视频基诺游戏、视频弹球盘游戏、视频纸牌游戏、视频机会游戏、宾果游戏、彩票游戏、骰子游戏、基诺游戏及其组合。 Further, the game of chance may be selected from: video slot games, mechanical slot games, video two i ^ point games, video poker, video keno, video pachinko games, video card games, video games of chance, bingo , lottery games, dice games, keno games and combinations thereof.在具体实施方式中， 一个或多个游戏限制可以选自：时间限审IJ、投注限希U、赢的量、输的量、储蓄的量、所玩游戏的数目、玩游戏的速度、己经获胜的游戏数目以及己经输了的游戏数目。 In a specific embodiment, the one or more game limit may be selected from: the time limit trial IJ, Greek bet limit U, the amount of the win, lose amount, the amount of savings, the number of game play, the game play speed, hexyl by the number of winning games and have lost a number of games.所述一个或多个游戏限制可以由玩家、游戏机经营者、游戏管理实体或其组合设定。 The limit may be one or more game by the player, the gaming machine operators, game management entity or a combination setting.响应超过一个或多个游戏限制，可以在游戏机上采取下述步骤中的一个或多个：1)在游戏机上显示消息，其中消息是文本格式、图形格式、音频格式、视频格式或其组合之一；2)例如通过在游戏机上启动结算程序，游戏机可以防止玩家玩附加的游戏；3)可以使游戏机上的呈像质量变差，以劝阻在游戏机上玩附加的游戏；4)减少用于机会游戏的最大投注量；5)在一定量的时间内防止玩家进行投注；以及6)可以降低给出机会游戏的速度。 Response over one or more gaming restrictions on the gaming machine may take the following steps in one or more of: 1) a message displayed on the gaming machine, wherein the message is a text format, graphical format, audio format, video format or combinations thereof a; 2), for example, by starting the settlement program on the gaming machine, the gaming machine may prevent the player to play the additional game; 3) can form image quality deterioration on the gaming machine to play on the gaming machine discourage additional game; 4) reduced by the maximum bet amount for the game of chance; 5) to prevent a certain amount of time players bet; and 6) may be given the opportunity to reduce the speed of the game.可以用各种方法配置损害最小化界面。 It can be configured in various ways to minimize damage interface.例如，可以在损害最小化界面上显示一个或多个计量器或视频反馈。 For example, it may display one or more meter or video feedback to minimize damage in the interface.一个或多个计量器可以选自：投注量、玩游戏的时间量、每次的投注量、每个游戏投注的平均量、赢的量、输的量、每次输的量、每次赢的量、赢取量对投注量的比率、所玩游戏的数目、已经输了的游戏数目、已经赢了的游戏数目、每个游戏赢的量、每个游戏输的量、储蓄的量以及消费的饮料数目。 A meter or more may be selected from: bet amount, the amount of time to play the game, the amount of each wager, the average amount bet per game, an amount won, an amount lost, the amount of each input of each winning amount, the amount ratio of the number of winning the bet amount, the games played, the number of lost game has been won game number, the amount of each game is won, an amount lost per game, the savings amount and the the number of drinks consumed.在一个具体实施方式中，可以提供损害最小化配置界面以允许定制损害最小化界面。 In a specific embodiment, it may be provided to minimize damage configuration interface allows customization interface to minimize damage.游戏玩家可以使用损害最小化配置界面来选择一个或多个玩游戏的限制、在损害最小化界面上显示的计量器的类型、在损害最小化界面上显示的静态图像、在损害最小化界面上显示的视频反馈、在损害最小化界面上显示的消息、对超过游戏限制的响应、损害最小化界面的显示格式或其组合。 Game player may be used to minimize damage configuration interface to select one or more game play limits, types of gauge displayed on the harm minimization interface, still image displayed on the screen to minimize the damage, the damage is minimized in the interface video feedback display in the message display on the harm minimization interface, responses to game over limit, minimize damage screen display format or a combination thereof.在又一个实施方式中，该游戏机可以进一步包括扩音器，用于接收来自玩家的玩游戏的限制之一的语音声明。 In yet another embodiment, the gaming machine may further include a microphone for receiving voice declared one of the limitations of playing the game from a player.该语音声明可以存储在游戏机或远程器件上。 The voice announcement can be stored on the game console or remote devices.该游戏机还可以包括用于定位该语音声明的存储记录并在游戏机上重放该语音声明的重放代码。 The gaming machine may further include storage for positioning of the recording and reproducing of the voice statement is reproduced speech code statement on the gaming machine.进一步，该游戏机可以包括手写界面，用于捕获以电子格式输入游戏机中的签名或标志。 Further, the gaming machine may include a handwriting interface for input capture consoles signature or logo in electronic format.该签名或标志可以用于确认由该游戏玩家所作的对玩游戏的限制的选择。 The signature or logo can be used to confirm the choice of playing the game of restrictions made by the game player.,奔具体实施方式中，用于产生损害最小化界面的软件指令可以由主游戏控制器执行，并且第一显示器可用于显示机会游戏。 , Ben specific embodiment, the software instructions for generating minimize damage interface may be executed by the master gaming controller, and a first display may be used to display games of chance.此外，该游戏机可进一步包括可用于显示机会游戏的第二显示器。 Furthermore, the gaming machine may further comprise a second display for displaying the game of chance.该游戏机还可以包括与游戏机结合的玩家跟踪单元，其中该玩家跟踪单元包括与主游戏控制器分离的逻辑器件、用于与玩家跟踪服务器通信的网络接口、以及用于与主游戏控制器通信的通信接口。 The gaming machine may further include a player tracking unit in combination with the gaming machine, wherein the player tracking unit comprises a separate logic devices the master gaming controller, a player tracking server and a communication network interface, and a master gaming controller and a communication interface in communication.用于产生损害最小化界面的软件指令可以由逻辑器件执行。 Software instructions for generating a harm minimization interface may be executed by a logic device.而且，该玩家跟踪服务器可以被设计或构造为：i)比较一个或多个玩游戏的限制与从游戏机接收的玩游戏的数据，并且当已经超过一个或多个游戏限制时通知游戏机。 Further, the player tracking server may be designed or configured to: i) compare the one or more limitations and data received from the game machine to play the game play, and notifies the gaming machine when the game has been over one or more limitations.可以通过逻辑器件控制第一显示器。 The first display may be controlled by a logic device.在又一个实施方式中，该游戏机可以包括用于与手持式计算器件通信的器件接口，该手持式计算器件包括手持式显示器、与主游戏控制器分离的逻辑器件以及一个或多个与手持式器件结合的手持式输入机构。 In yet another embodiment, the gaming machine may include a device interface for a handheld computing device in communication with the handheld computing device comprising a handheld display, the master gaming controller and the separate logical devices and one or more handheld handheld input device type binding device.该器件接口为有线或无线接口。 The device interface is a wired or wireless interface.该手持式计算器件可以适用于对在第一显示器上产生的游戏服务界面进行控制或提供输入中一种或多种。 The handheld computing device may be suitable for a display generated on a first game service interface to be controlled or to provide one or more inputs.该逻辑器件可以执行用于在手持式显示器或第一显示器上产生和显示损害最小化界面的软件指令。 The logic device may execute software instructions for generating and displaying the harm minimization interface on the hand-held display or the first display.进一步，在手持式显示器上可以显示该游戏服务界面。 Further, on the hand-held monitor can display the game service interface.该游戏机可以包括在游戏机外表面上的输 The gaming machine in the gaming machine may comprise an outer surface of output
出端口，用于向例如手持式器件的便携式器件提供通信接口、电源接口或其组合中之一。 A port for providing one of a communication interface, power interface or combinations thereof to a device such as a portable handheld device.本发明的另一个方面提供一种游戏机。 Another aspect of the present invention provides a gaming machine.该游戏机的一般特征可以在于包括：l)主游戏控制器，设计或构造为产生并控制在游戏机上玩的机会游戏；2) 输入机构，在主游戏控制器的控制之下，用于接收用于对机会游戏的结果进行投注的现金或者信用标记；3)输出机构，在主游戏控制器的控制之下，用于输出所述现金和信用标记，其中信用标记可兑换为现金；4)存储器，用于存储产生累积奖金界面的软件指令，其中，所述累积奖金界面用于显示由玩家选择的一个或多个累积奖金；以及5)第一显示器，用于显示包括累积奖金界面的游戏服务界面。 The gaming machine may be generally characterized by comprising: l) the master gaming controller, designed or configured to generate and control the play of the game of chance on the gaming machine; 2) input means, under the control of the master gaming controller for receiving the results for the game of chance bet cash or indicia of credit; 3) an output mechanism under control of the master gaming controller for outputting the cash and credit marker, wherein indicia of credit may be redeemable for cash; 4) a memory for storing software instructions to generate the jackpot interface wherein the jackpot interface for displaying one or more jackpots selected by the player; and 5) a first display for displaying a game jackpot interface service interface.触摸屏可以与第一显示器结合。 The touch screen may be combined with the first display.此外，该机会游戏可以选自： 视频投币游戏、机械投币游戏、视频二十一点游戏、视频扑克游戏、视频基诺游戏、视频弹球盘游戏、视频纸牌游戏、视频机会游戏、宾果游戏、彩票游戏、 骰子游戏、基诺游戏及其组合。 In addition, the game of chance may be selected from: video slot games, mechanical slot games, video blackjack, video poker, video keno, video pachinko games, video card games, video games of chance, bingo games, lottery games, dice games, keno games and combinations thereof.在具体实施方式中， 一个或多个累积奖金可以选自一组累进累积奖金。 In a specific embodiment, the one or more jackpots may be selected from the group of the progressive jackpot.该一个或多个累积奖金为与特定玩家相关并且仅被给予该特定玩家的个人累积奖金。 The one or more individual jackpot is associated with a particular player and is only given to that particular player's jackpot.基于特定玩家在游戏活动、非游戏活动及其组合中的花费积累个人累积奖金。 Players in the game based on the specific activity, non-gaming activities and take personal combination of accumulated jackpot.进一步，赢得个人累积奖金的概率可以根据个人累积奖金的量或自从最后赢得个人累积奖金以来的时间而变化。 Further, the probability of winning the jackpot individuals may vary depending on the amount of personal jackpot or time since last winning his jackpot.该个人累积奖金是作为在游戏相关活动中出现的事件的结果或者作为在非游戏相关活动中出现的事件的结果而给予的。 The jackpot is a personal appearance in the game as a result of related activities or as a result of events occurring in the non-game-related activities and events given.可以在非现金表示上给予个人累积奖金，其中储存在非现金表示上的奖励量可以兑换成现金或者兑换成在不同的游戏机或桌上游戏机上附加玩游戏。 We can give personal jackpot on a non-cash, where the amount of non-cash rewards stored on the representation can be exchanged for cash or convertible into additional games on different gaming machines or table games console.进一步，可以在非现金表示上给予所述个人累积奖金，其中储存在非现金表示上的奖励量能够兌换成附加玩游戏而不能兑换成现金。 Further, the individual may be given on a non-cash jackpot, where the amount of storage on a non-cash rewards can be exchanged for additional representation to play the game and can not be exchanged for cash.此外，可以在非现金表示上给予所述个人累积奖金，其中储存在非现金表示上的奖励为一定量的票据。 In addition, the personal jackpot may be administered on a non-cash, where award stored on the cashless represented by an amount of notes.该票据能够兑换成服务而不能兌换成现金。 The notes can be exchanged for service and can not be exchanged for cash.一个或多个累积奖金可以为组累积奖金，其中所述组累积奖金为从在组中注册的成员的活动进行积累。 A plurality of jackpot or jackpots may be the group, wherein said group of accumulation to accumulate bonus from registered members in a group activity.仅组中的注册成员有资格给予来自组累积奖金的奖励。 Only group members are eligible to register to give from the group jackpot reward.可以注册组累积奖金的组的示例为家庭、朋友群、集会的参加者、以及旅行团。 Examples of groups can register jackpot group of family, friends groups, the participants of the rally, as well as tours.
在具体实施方式中， 一个或多个累积奖金的奖励储存在非现金表示上，其中非现金表示具有到期时间。 In a specific embodiment, the one or more jackpots is stored on a non-cash reward, where the non-cash represents an expiration time.主游戏控制器可以执行用于产生累积奖金界面的软件指示。 Master gaming controller may execute software instructions for generating the jackpot interface.第一显示器可以用于显示机会游戏，或者第二显示器可以用于显示机会游戏。 The first display may be for displaying a game of chance or a second display may be used to display the game of chance.在还一个实施方式中，玩家跟踪单元可以与游戏机结合，其中，该游戏跟踪单元包括与主游戏控制器分离的逻辑器件、用于与玩家跟踪服务器通信的网络接口、以及用于与主游戏控制器通信的通信接口。 In a further embodiment, the player tracking unit may be combined with the gaming machine, wherein the player tracking unit comprises a separate logic devices the master gaming controller, a player tracking server and a communication network interface, and a main game a communication interface of the communication controller.逻辑器件可以执行用于产生累积奖金界面的软件指令。 Logic device may execute software instructions for generating a jackpot interface.进一步，该第一显示器可以在逻辑器件的控制之下。 Further, the first display may be under the control of logic devices.该游戏机还可以包括用于与手持式计算器件通信的器件接口。 The gaming machine may further comprise an interface means for handheld computing devices in communication with.该手持式器件可以包括手持式显示器、与主游戏控制器分离的逻辑器件以及一个或多个手持式输入机构。 The handheld device may include a handheld display, separate from the master gaming controller logic devices and one or more hand-held input mechanisms.该手持式计算器件可以适用于对在第一显示器上产生的游戏服务界面控制或提供输入中的一种或多种。 The handheld computing device may be adapted to the generation of the game service interface on the first display, or providing one or more control inputs.进一步，该逻辑器件可以执行用于在手持式显示器或第一显示器上产生和显示累积奖金界面或游戏服务界面的软件指:令。 Further, the logic device may execute for generating and displaying the jackpot interface or a game service interface software on the handheld display means or the first display: Let.该游戏机可以包括在游戏机外表面上的输出端口，用于向例如手持式器件的便携式器件提供通信接口、电源接口或其组合中之一。 The gaming machine may comprise an output port on an outer surface of the gaming machine for providing one of a communication interface, power interface or combinations thereof to a device such as a portable handheld device.本发明的另一个方面提供一种游戏机。 Another aspect of the present invention provides a gaming machine.该游戏机的一般特征在于包括：1) 主游戏控制器，设计或构造为产生并控制在游戏机上玩的机会游戏；2)输入机构，在主游戏控制器的控制之下，用于接收用于对机会游戏的结果投注的现金或者信用标记；3)输出机构，在主游戏控制器的控制之下，用于输出所述现金和信用标记，其中信用标记可被兑换为现金；4)存储器，用于储存产生方位界面的软件指令，其中，所述方位界面用于引导玩家到游艺场所联合体中的一位置，其中在该位置可以得到一个或多个玩家感兴趣的活动或服务；以及5)第一显示器，用于显示包括方位界面的游戏服务界面。 The general features of the gaming machine comprising: 1) a master gaming controller, designed or configured to generate and control the play of the game of chance on the gaming machine; 2) input means, under the control of the master gaming controller for receiving the results of the game of chance cash or indicia of credit bet; 3) an output mechanism under control of the master gaming controller for outputting the cash and credit marker, wherein indicia of credit may be redeemable for cash; 4) memory , for storing software instructions to generate azimuth interface, wherein the interface position to a position for guiding a player in a casino complexes, can be obtained at the position where the activities or services of interest to one or more players; and 5) a first display for displaying a game service interface interface orientation.触摸屏可以与第一显示器结合。 The touch screen may be combined with the first display.进一步，该机会游戏可以选自：视频投币游戏、机械投币游戏、 视频二十一点游戏、视频扑克游戏、视频基诺游戏、视频弹球盘游戏、视频纸牌游戏、视频机会游戏、宾果游戏、彩票游戏、骰子游戏、基诺游戏及其组合。 Further, the game of chance may be selected from: video slot games, mechanical slot games, video blackjack, video poker, video keno, video pachinko games, video card games, video games of chance, bingo games, lottery games, dice games, keno games and combinations thereof.该方位界面可以适于接收描述该位置的一个或多个特征的搜索标准并提供满足该搜索标准的一个或多个位置的方位。 The orientation of the interface may be adapted to receive a description of the location of one or more search criteria and features one or more locations to provide orientation satisfies the search criteria.在该位置可以找到的一个或多个服务或活动可以选自：游戏活动、食品服务、娱乐服务、旅馆服务、看管服务 One or more services or activities can be found at this location can be selected from: games, food services, entertainment services, hotel services, custody services
以及购物活动。 And shopping activities.当多个位置满足该搜索标准时，该界面可用于显示最接近玩家的当前位置的位置。 When multiple locations satisfy the search criteria, the interface can be used to display the position closest to the current position of the player.该方位界面可以适于显示在该位置处的活动或服务的状态信息。 The orientation of the interface may be adapted to display the active status at that location or service information.该状态信息可以用于显示活动或服务的可用性。 This status information can be used to display the availability of activities or services.在其它实施方式中，该游戏机可以包括用于在介质上打印该方位的打印机。 In other embodiments, the gaming machine may comprise a printer for printing the position on the medium.该介质可以包括与该位置处的活动或服务一起使用的优惠券或促销。 The medium may include a coupon or promotional use with the activities or services at that location.而且， 该游戏机可以进一步包括输出端口，用于将方位下载到玩家携带的便携式器件上。 Moreover, the gaming machine may further include an output port for downloading to a portable device bearing the player carries.该便携式器件可以为手机或手持式计算器件。 The portable device may be a mobile phone or handheld computing devices.该方位可以提供为图、电文信息或音频信息。 The orientation of the map can provide, text information or audio information.该方位界面可以适于显示一个或多个服务或活动的目录。 The orientation of the interface may be adapted to display one or more directory service or activity.可以根据一个或多个类别或主题而对该目录分组。 The directory can be grouped according to one or more categories or topics.在又一个实施方式中，玩家跟踪单元可以与游戏机结合，其中该玩家跟踪单元包括与主游戏控制器分离的逻辑器件、用于与玩家跟踪服务器通信的网络接口、以及用于与主游戏控制器通信的通信接口。 In yet another embodiment, the player tracking unit may be combined with the gaming machine, wherein the player tracking unit comprises a separate logic devices the master gaming controller, a player tracking server and a communication network interface, and a main game control communicator interface.逻辑器件可以执行用于产生方位界面的软件指令。 Logic device may execute software instructions for generating the orientation interface.进一步，第一显示器可以在逻辑器件的控制之下。 Further, the first display may be under the control of logic devices.该游戏机还可以包括用于与手持式计算器件通信的器件端口。 The gaming machine may further comprise means for handheld computing devices port communications.该器件端口可以为有线或无线端口。 The interface device may be a wired or wireless port.该手持式器件可以包括手持式显示器、与主游戏控制器分离的逻辑器件、以及一个或多个手持式输入机构。 The handheld device may include a handheld display, separate from the master gaming controller logic devices, and one or more hand-held input mechanisms.该手持式计算器件可以适于对在第一显示器上产生的游戏服务界面控制或提供输入中的一种或多种。 The handheld computing device may be adapted to generate the game service interface on the first display, or providing one or more control inputs.进一步，该逻辑器件可以执行用于在手持式显示器或第一显示器上产生和显示方位界面或游戏服务界面的软件指令。 Further, the logic device may execute software instructions for generating and displaying a game service interface or the orientation of the interface on the hand-held display or the first display.该游戏机可以在游戏机的外表面上包括输出端口，用于向便携式器件提供通信接口、电源接口或其组合中之一。 The gaming machine may comprise an output port on an outer surface of the gaming machine for providing one of a communication interface, power interface or combinations thereof to a portable device.本发明的另一个方面涉及计算机程序产品，其包括机器可读介质，其上存储有用于执行如上所述的任何方法的程序指令。 Another aspect of the invention relates to a computer program product comprising a machine-readable medium having stored thereon program instructions for executing any of the methods described above.本发明的任何方法可以表现为程序指令和/或数据结构、数据库等，其能够被提供在例如智能卡、小型闪存卡、存储棒、RAM、 CD-RAM、 CD-DVD、硬盘等的计算机可读介质上。 Any method of the present invention can be represented as program instructions and / or data structures, databases, etc. that can be provided, for example a computer smart card, a compact flash card, memory stick, RAM, CD-RAM, CD-DVD, hard disk readable medium.以下将参照附图更详细地清楚说明本发明的这些和其它特征和优点。 The following description will be apparent These and other features and advantages of the present invention in more detail with reference to the drawings.附图说明图1为具有玩家跟踪单元的许多游戏机的方块图，该玩家跟踪单元与提供游戏服务和玩家跟踪服务的服务器相连接。 Figure 1 is a block diagram of a gaming machine having a plurality of player tracking unit, the player tracking unit and the gaming server and the player tracking services and services connected.图2A-2D为用于本发明一些实施方式的触摸屏和显示器的方块图。 Figures 2A-2D is a block diagram of the present invention, some of the touch screen and the display according to the embodiment.图3A-3I为用于本发明一些实施方式的游戏服务界面显示的方块图。 FIGS. 3A-3I is a block diagram of game service interfaces for some embodiments of the invention shown.图4A和4B为根据本发明的具体实施方式的玩家跟踪单元的透视图。 FIG 4A is a perspective view and a player tracking unit of the specific embodiments according to the present invention. 4B.图4C为通过无线端口与手持式便携装置通信的玩家跟踪单元的方块图。 Figure 4C is a block diagram of a tracking unit via the wireless game player port means communicating with the hand-held portable.图5为根据本发明一个实施方式的玩家跟踪单元的部件的方块图。 FIG 5 is a block diagram of components of a player tracking unit of the embodiment of the present invention.图6为用于本发明一个实施方式的玩家跟踪单元中具有触摸屏显示器的处理器板的方块图。 FIG 6 is a block diagram for one embodiment of a player tracking unit of the present invention the processor board with a touch screen display.图7为结合有本发明一个实施方式的视频游戏机的透视图。 7 is a perspective view incorporating a video game embodiment of the present invention.图8为用于在本发明的触摸屏显示器上提供游戏服务的方法的流程图。 8 is a flowchart of a method for providing gaming services on a touch screen display of the present invention.图9为用于在本发明的游戏机上提供'游戏点'忠诚计划注册的方法的流程图。 FIG 9 is a flowchart providing 'credits' loyalty program registration on the gaming machine of the present invention is a method for.图IO为用于在本发明的玩家跟踪服务器上提供'游戏点'忠诚计划注册的方法的流程图。 IO is used to provide a flow chart diagram 'game points' loyalty program registered on the player tracking server method of the present invention.具体实施方式以下将详细说明本发明的一些具体实施方式，其包括本发明人为实施本发明而设计的最佳模式。 DETAILED DESCRIPTION The following embodiment will be described in detail some embodiments of the present invention, including the best mode embodiment of the present invention, the present invention artificially designed.在附图中示出这些具体实施方式的示例。 In the example shown in the figures of these specific embodiments.当与这些具体实施方式相结合来描述本发明时，应当理解其并非意欲将本发明限制至所描述的实施方式。 When combined with these embodiments of the present invention will be described, it will be understood that it is not intended to limit the invention to the embodiments described embodiment.相反，意欲覆盖可包括在如所附权利要求所限定的本发明的精神和范围内的替换、修改和等同物。 Instead, it is intended to cover may be included within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims alternatives, modifications, and equivalents thereof.而且，以下将阐述大量具体详细情况，以提供对本发明的全面理解。 Moreover, numerous specific details are set forth the following circumstances, to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention.可以不需这些具体详细情况中的一些或全部而实践本发明。 Some of these specific details may not be required in all circumstances and practice of the invention or.在其它示例中，为了不使本发明不明显，没有详细地描述众所周知的过程操作。 In other examples, in order not to make the present invention obvious, well known process operations not described in detail.在如图1所示的本发明中，触摸屏显示器16可以用作向在游戏机上玩游戏的玩家提供玩家跟踪服务以及提供其它游戏服务的界面。 In the present invention shown in FIG. 1, the touch screen display 16 may be used to provide a player playing a game on the gaming machine player tracking services and other gaming services provided interface.作为示例，该触摸屏显示器16可以被玩家用作界面，以：1)输入玩家的跟踪识别信息；2)对于例如玩家跟踪账户和银行账户的账户，査看账户信息并完成账户交易；3) 接收与玩家跟踪单元和游戏机相关的操作指令；4)兌换奖品或赠送券，包括使用游戏跟踪点来兌换奖品或赠送券；5)进行娱乐服务预约；6)将信用点转移至非现金表示和其它玩家账户中；7)参加游艺场所的促销；8)选择通过在玩家跟踪单元和游戏机上的视频或音频输出机构而输出的娱乐选项；9)玩游 By way of example, the touch screen display 16 may be used as a player interface to: 1) input player tracking identification information; 2) For example, player tracking accounts and bank accounts of the account, view account information and the account to complete the transaction; 3) receiving instructions related to the player tracking unit and game consoles; 4) redeem prizes or gift vouchers, including the use of tracking game points to redeem prizes or gift vouchers; 5) entertainment booking services; 6) will be transferred to non-cash credits representation and other players accounts; 7) to participate in the casino promotions; 8) to select entertainment options via video or audio output mechanism on the player tracking unit and game consoles and output; 9) to play tour
戏和奖励游戏；10)请求游戏服务，例如订购饮料；11)与其他玩家或游艺场所服务人员联系；以及12)注册用于例如玩家跟踪程序的忠诚计划的玩家。 And play a bonus game; 10) gaming service requests, such as ordering drinks; 11) contact with other players or casino staff; and 12) Sign up for a player loyalty program such as player tracking program.此外，触摸屏显示器16可以被游艺场所工作人员用作界面。 In addition, the touch screen display 16 may be used as an interface casino staff.例如，游艺场所工作人员可以使用该界面，以：a)访问诊断菜单；b)显示玩家跟踪单元状态信息和游戏机状态信息；c)访问游戏机计量信息；d)显示玩家状态信息；以及e)执行其它适当的任务。 For example, casino personnel may use the interface to: a) access diagnostic menus; b) display player tracking unit status information and gaming machine status information; c) access gaming machine metering information; D) display player status information; and e ) perform other appropriate tasks.在本发明中，为了提供如上所述的游戏服务，使用可以用触摸屏显示器16执行的游戏服务界面。 In the present invention, as described above in order to provide a game service, can be performed by using the touch screen display 16 of the game service interface.对本发明的许多实施方式都很重要的概念包括'忠诚点（loyalty point)'、'忠诚计戈U (loyalty program)'、'忠诚点期（loyalty point session)'、以及'忠诚计划表示（loyalty program instrument)'。 Are important for many embodiments of the present invention concepts include 'loyalty points (loyalty point)', 'loyalty total Ge U (loyalty program)', 'loyalty point period (loyalty point session)', and 'loyalty program representation (loyalty program instrument) '.例如，利用许多所描述游戏服务界面来提供与忠诚计划相关的游戏服务。 For example, with many described the game service interface to provide information about the loyalty program of the gaming service.忠诚点是指针对参加在游戏设施处的指定活动而积累的任何类型的点。 It refers to any type of loyalty points for participating in the game at the facility designated activities accumulated points.可以积累忠诚点的设施包括游艺场所、提供游戏活动的旅馆、允许游戏活动的商店、基于互联网的游戏活动，等等。 Can accumulate loyalty points amenities include a casino, the hotel offers games, allowing games shops, Internet-based games, and so on.所指定的活动包括，但不限于，游戏活动， 例浙玩游戏机；纸牌游戏，例如二十一点、牌九扑克、比九点扑克；对公共事件的结果进行的赌注；台式游戏，例如轮盘赌、双骰儿赌博、基诺；以及彩票， 等等。 Specified activities include, but are not limited to, games, activities, cases of Zhejiang playing games; card games such as blackjack, Pai Gow Poker, poker than nine; bet on the results of the public event taking place; desktop games, such as round plate gambling, craps children gambling, keno; and lottery tickets, and so on.在游戏设施中的其它活动可以积累忠诚点。 Other events in the gaming facility can accumulate loyalty points.如上所述，忠诚点代表光顾所积累的信用形式。 As mentioned above, represents the loyalty points accumulated in the form of credit to patronize.该点能够在游戏设施或者有关联的设施内兑换成多种商品或者服务（或者转变为其它信用形式）。 The points can be redeemed within the gaming facility or facilities related to a variety of goods or services (or converted to other forms of credit).玩家跟踪点是'忠诚点'的典型示例。 Player tracking point is 'loyalty points' a typical example.通常在忠诚计划中提供忠诚点的管理和跟踪。 Usually provide loyalty points loyalty program management and tracking.如上所述，忠诚计划的主要目的是产生对特定游艺场所或游艺场所集团的'品牌'忠诚。 As mentioned above, the main purpose is to generate loyalty program 'brand' loyalty to a particular casino or casino group.玩家跟踪程序或者投币俱乐部是忠诚计划的示例。 Coin club or player tracking program is an example of loyalty programs.忠诚计划的参加者可以根据其参加忠诚计划的级别，而被给予'赠送券'，例如免费饮料、免费餐、免费娱乐以及其它游戏服务。 Loyalty program participants can participate depending on the level of its loyalty program, and was given the 'gift vouchers', such as free drinks, free meals, free games and other entertainment services.为了参加忠诚计划，通常要求参加者加入该程序。 In order to participate in the loyalty program, usually require participants to join the program.在本发明的一个实施方式中，描述了允许玩家加入游戏机中的忠诚计划的方法。 In one embodiment of the present invention, a method allows a player to join a loyalty program in the gaming machine.加入后，通常将忠诚计划表示给予参加者。 After the addition, usually expressed loyalty program gives participants.该忠诚计划表示典型地包含允许成员在指定程序活动中积累忠诚点的信息。 The loyalty program represents typically contain information that allows members to accumulate loyalty points specified in the program activities.例如，对于大多数投币俱乐部，在积累玩家的玩家跟踪点之前，要求玩家将磁条卡（即，玩家跟踪卡）插入游戏机中。 For example, for most coin club, before the player's player tracking points accumulated, players will be required magnetic stripe card (ie, a player tracking card) inserted in the game machine.忠诚计划表示的示例包括磁条卡、智能卡和便携式无线器件。 Examples loyalty program represented include magnetic stripe cards, smart cards and portable wireless devices.然而，通常忠诚计划表示可以为 Often, however, it can be expressed as a loyalty program
任何具有玩家参加忠诚计划所必须的信息的器件。 Any device with a player participating in the loyalty program information necessary.例如，具有条形码的打印票单、具有条形码的塑料卡或者编码有玩家跟踪信息的房间钥匙可以用作忠诚计划表示。 For example, to print a ticket with a bar code, a barcode encoded with a plastic card or room key player tracking information can be used as a loyalty program representation.当将条形码编码的票单插入游戏机上的纸币识别器时可以阅读该条形码编码的票单，以获得必要的玩家跟踪信息，或者可以从位于游戏机上的条形码扫描器上阅读该条形码编码的票单。 When bar coding the ticket is inserted into a bill validator on the gaming machine can read the bar coding of the ticket, to obtain the necessary player tracking information, or may be read from the bar coding the barcode scanner located on the gaming machine ticket .忠诚点期为个人进行指定活动的期间和忠诚点积累的期间。 Personal loyalty points during the period specified activities during and loyalty points accumulated.可以通过第一事件和第二事件描述忠诚点间。 Between loyalty points can be described by a first event and a second event.该事件通常取决于所使用的忠诚点表示的类型和所指定的忠诚计划活动。 The event usually depends on the type and the specified activities loyalty points loyalty program used indicated.例如，在忠诚计划期内，在将玩家跟踪磁条卡用作忠诚计划表示的游戏机上，将卡插入游戏机上的读卡器和从读卡器上取出该卡可以描述忠诚计划期的开始和结束。 For example, in the loyalty program period on the gaming machine will be used as a magnetic stripe card player tracking loyalty programs represented on the card into the card reader consoles and remove the card from the reader can be described as the beginning of the period and loyalty programs End.作为另一个示例，在忠诚计划期中，在将条形码编码的票单用作忠诚计划表示的游戏机上，将票单插入纸币识别器和在游戏机上'支出现金'可以描述忠诚计划期的开始和结束。 As another example, in the mid-term loyalty program, encoded in the bar code on the ticket as a game console loyalty program represented the ticket is inserted into a bill validator and on consoles 'cash out' can be described as the beginning and end of the loyalty program .在图1中，描述了可以用作部分忠诚计划的玩家跟踪系统的一个示例。 In Figure 1, an example of a player tracking system may be used as part of loyalty program.在图2A-2D、图3A-3E和图4A与4B中，描述了用于本发明几个实施方式的显示幾和触摸屏器件（图2A-2D)、可以用触摸屏器件执行的游戏服务界面的示例（图3A-3D)、以及结合该显示器和触摸屏器件的玩家跟踪单元（4A-4D)。 In FIGS. 2A-2D, FIGS. 3A-3E and 4A and 4B, there is described a display for several embodiments of the present invention several and touch screen devices (FIGS. 2A-2D), the game service interface that may be performed by a touch screen device example (FIGS. 3A-3D), and the player tracking unit (4A-4D) binding of the display and touch screen devices.在图5和图6中，描述了用于本发明实施方式的结合有显示器和触摸屏器件的玩家跟踪单元的方块图。 In FIG 5 and FIG 6 described in conjunction with an embodiment of the present invention are a block diagram and a display unit, a touch screen player tracking device.在图7中，描述了用于本发明实施方式的游戏机的操作。 In Figure 7, it describes the operation of an embodiment of the present invention is a game machine.最后，在图8中，描述了在游戏机上使用游戏服务界面的方法。 Finally, in Figure 8, we describe the use of game service interface on the gaming machine.在图9 中，描述了用于在游戏机上玩家注册忠诚计划的方法。 In Figure 9, we describe a method for console gamers registered in the loyalty program.在图10中，描述了在玩家跟踪服务器上执行的玩家注册忠诚计划的方法。 In Figure 10, we describe a method for registering a player loyalty program executed on the player tracking server.回到图l，描述了使用本发明的实施方式的玩家跟踪系统的示例。 Returning to Figure l, is described using the exemplary embodiment of the present invention player tracking system.然而， 仅为了说明目的而给出该示例，本发明并不限于以下示例。 However, for illustrative purposes only and the examples given, the present invention is not limited to the following examples.图1为具有玩家跟踪单元的许多游戏机的方块图，该玩家跟踪单元与提供游戏服务和玩家跟踪服务的服务器相连接。 Figure 1 is a block diagram of a player tracking unit of the many game machines, the player tracking unit and the server provides gaming services and player tracking services are connected.在游艺场所150中，通过数据收集单元（DCU) 60，将游戏机90、 92、 94和96连接到玩家跟踪/记帐服务器62。 In casino 150, 60, connected to the player tracking / billing server 62 through the data collection unit (the DCU) gaming machines 90, 92, 94 and 96.在特定的示例中，可以与多达32个玩家跟踪单元相连作为部分局部网络的DCU60整理从在游戏机90、 92、 94和96中的玩家跟踪单元收集的信息，并将该信息转送至玩家跟踪记帐服务器62。 In a specific example, it may be up to 32 player tracking units connected as part of a finishing DCU60 local network information from the gaming machine 90, 92, 94 and 96 collected by the player tracking unit, and the information is transferred to the player tracking accounting server 62.该玩家跟踪记帐服务器被设计为：）储存玩家跟踪账户信息， 例如关于玩家以前玩游戏的信息，2)基于玩家所玩游戏，计算玩家跟踪点。 The player tracking billing server is designed to store :) player tracking account information, such as information about a player before playing the game, 2) based on the players play the game, player tracking points is calculated.该玩家跟踪点可以用作将奖励提供给玩家的根据。 The player tracking points can be used as a reward to the player based on.在游艺场所150的游戏机92中，玩家跟踪单元56和投币机接口板（SMIB ) 53安装在游戏机的主机柜8内。 150 in casino gaming machine 92, the player tracking unit 56 and slot machine interface board (SMIB) 53 is mounted within the main cabinet 8 of the gaming machine.将顶盒130安装在游戏机的主机柜8的顶部上。 The top box 130 is mounted on top of the main cabinet 8 of the gaming machine.在许多类型的游戏机中，将该玩家跟踪单元安装在顶盒6内。 In many types of gaming machines, the player tracking unit mounted within the top box 6.该玩家跟踪单元56也可以被安装在例如主机柜8侧面的游戏机侧面上。 The player tracking unit 56 may also be mounted, for example on the gaming machine side surface 8 side of the main cabinet.在安装入例如92 的游戏机之前，通常将例如56的玩家跟踪单元和例如53的SMIB制造成单独的单元。 Before installation into a gaming machine 92, for example, typically for example, player tracking units 56 and 53, for example, the SMIB manufactured as a separate unit.玩家跟踪单元56包括全部被安装在该单元内的三个外围器件:读卡器24、 扬声器和扩音器58、以及触摸屏显示器16。 Player tracking unit 56 includes three peripheral devices are all mounted within the unit: the card reader 24, a speaker and a microphone 58, a display 16 and a touch screen.在本发明的一些实施方式中，通过设置在玩家跟踪单元内的处理器（见图5 )控制玩家跟踪单元内的外围器件。 In some embodiments of the present invention, by a processor provided in the player tracking unit (see FIG. 5) controls the peripheral devices within the player tracking unit.在其它实施方式中，可以通过主游戏控制器54直接控制一个或多个外围器件。 In other embodiments, direct control of one or more peripheral devices 54 through the master gaming controller.在又一些实施方式中，通过主游戏控制器54，在玩家跟踪单元56中的处理器可以用作从控制器，以操作玩家跟踪单元56中的一个或多个外围器件。 In still other embodiments, the master gaming controller 54, the processor in the player tracking unit 56 from the controller may be used to operate a player tracking unit 56 or a plurality of peripheral devices.具有由主游戏控制器操作的玩家跟踪单元的详细资料被描述在Criss-Puskiewicz等在2001年4月19日提交的名称为'Universal Player Tracking System'的共同待决美国专利申请No. 09/838,033中，在此为了所有目的引入其全部内容， 以及LeMay等在2000年8月18日提交的名称为'Gaming Machine Virtual Player Tracking Services'的共同待决美国专利申请No. 09/642,192中，在此为了所有目的引入其全部内容。 Details of player tracking unit has a master gaming controller operation is described in the Criss-Puskiewicz, etc. in the name of April 19, 2001 entitled 'Universal Player Tracking System' co-pending US Patent Application No. 09 / 838,033 in this introduction for all purposes in its entirety, and LeMay, etc. in the name of August 18, 2000 entitled 'Gaming Machine Virtual Player Tracking Services' co-pending US Patent application No. 09 / 642,192, in this introduced for all purposes in its entirety.该玩家跟踪装置用于输入执行玩家跟踪程序所需要的玩家跟踪信息。 The player tracking means for entering player tracking program execution player tracking information needed.根据与例如对玩家的方便性的设计约束、游戏机以及游戏机的构造的包装约束，可以按照不同的安排安装该玩家跟踪装置。 According to the configuration constraints of packaging, for example, the player's convenience design constraints, the gaming machine and the gaming machine can be installed in different arrangements of the player tracking device.例如，玩家跟踪装置可以安装成与竖式游戏机中的垂直表面齐平，并可以安装成与台面式游戏机中的水平表面齐平。 For example, player tracking devices may be mounted to the vertical surface is flush upright gaming machine and may be mounted to the horizontal surface of the mesa-type game machine flush.玩家跟踪装置还可以从外部安装在游戏机的机柜上。 Player tracking device may also be mounted externally on the gaming machine cabinet.在一个实施方式中，玩家跟踪单元56可以通过SMIB53、主通信板55和数据收集单元60与玩家跟踪服务器60通信。 In one embodiment, the player tracking unit 56 may track the communication server 60 through SMIB53, a main communication board 55 and a data collecting unit 60 and the player.该SMIB53允许玩家跟踪单元56从游戏机92中收集计量信息，例如玩家在玩游戏期间已经投注的量。 This allows the player tracking unit 56 SMIB53 amount metering information collected in the gaming machine 92, for example, during game play a player has bet from.该信息可以被玩家跟踪服务器用于计算玩家的玩家跟踪点。 This information may be player tracking server to calculate player tracking points player.在另一个实施方式中， 主游戏控制器54可以通过通信板55和DCU60而与玩家跟踪和账户服务器通信，以向服务器62发送计量信息。 In another embodiment, the master gaming controller 54 may communicate and the server account to track the player 55 and the DCU 60 via a communication board, in order to transmit the metering information to the server 62.玩家跟踪单元56 —般通过使用有线串行连接器的串行连接与主游戏控制器54相连，并使用串行通信协议与主游戏控制器54通信。 Player tracking unit 56 - as a serial connection is connected to the master gaming controller 54 using a wired serial connector, and 54 using a serial communication protocol with the master gaming controller.在SMIB53和主游戏控制器54之间的串行连接可以是通过主通信板55 (例如，通过连接72)、 通过另一个中间器件或通过至主游戏控制器54的直接连接70。 SMIB53 between serial and connected to the master gaming controller 54 may be through the main communication board 55 (e.g., via connection 72) 70 is directly connected, through another intermediate device or through the controller 54 to the main game.作为串行通信协议的一个示例，主游戏控制器54可以采用由里诺国际游戏技术(Intemational Game Technology of Reno)开发的专用投币记帐系统（proprietary Slot Accounting System, SAS协议）的子系统，与玩家跟踪单元56通信。 As one example of the serial communication protocol, the master gaming controller 54 may employ a special billing system coin International Game Technology of Reno (Intemational Game Technology of Reno) developed (proprietary Slot Accounting System, SAS protocol) subsystem, the communication unit 56 and the player tracking.在一些实施方式中，专用串行连接器硬件和专用通信协议可以用作游戏机内的游戏器件之间的通信。 In some embodiments, the dedicated serial connector hardware and proprietary communication protocols may be used for communication between game devices in a gaming machine.例如，由国际游戏技术（International Game Technology, IGT,Reno,NV)开发的专用串行通信协议Netplex可以用于包括扬声器/扩音器56、显示窗/触摸屏显示器16和读卡器24的外围器件与玩家跟踪单元56上的处理器之间的通信，或者用于主游戏控制器54和外围器件之间的通信。 For example, by the International Game Technology (International Game Technology, IGT, Reno, NV) developed proprietary Netplex serial communication protocol may be used include a speaker / microphone 56, a display window / touch screen display 16 and the card reader 24 of the peripheral devices communication between the processor and the player tracking unit 56, or used for communication between the master gaming controller 54 and peripheral devices.在其它实施方式中，使用非专用工业标准串行硬件和标准通信协议， 例如USB、正EE 1394、火线、RS-232、 PS/2、 IrDA等可以提供在外围器件和游戏机跟踪单元56或主游戏控制器54上的处理器之间的串行通信。 In other embodiments, the use of non-proprietary industry standard serial hardware and standard communication protocols, such as USB, n EE 1394, Firewire, RS-232, PS / 2, IrDA and the like may be provided in a peripheral device tracking unit and the gaming machine 56 or serial communication between the processor 54 on the master gaming controller.在本发明的其它实施方式中，使用无线通信硬件和协议或者有线和无线通信硬件和通信协议的组合，可以提供各种游戏器件之间的串行通信。 In other embodiments of the present invention, a wireless communication hardware and protocols or a combination of wired and wireless communication hardware and communication protocols, it may provide various serial communication between gaming devices.例如，使用无线通信协议，例如蓝牙（Bluetooth)、 IrDA、 IEEE802.11a、 IEEE802.11b、 IEEE 802.11x(例如，其它IEEE 802.11标准，例如，IEEE亂llc、IEEE 802.1 ld、 正EE 802.11e,等等）、hiperlan/2、以及HomeRF，玩家跟踪单元56可以与主游戏控制器54和连接到玩家跟踪和记帐服务器62的局域网络通信。 For example, using a wireless communication protocol, such as Bluetooth (Bluetooth), IrDA, IEEE802.11a, IEEE802.11b, IEEE 802.11x (e.g. other IEEE 802.11 standards, e.g., IEEE chaos llc, IEEE 802.1 ld, n-EE 802.11e, etc. etc.), hiperlan / 2, and HomeRF, the player tracking unit 56 may communicate with the local area network 54 and the master gaming controller 62 is connected to a player tracking and accounting server.由此，例如56的玩家跟踪单元可以安装在游戏机90、 92、 94、 96中，而不必接线到游戏机上。 Thus, for example, the player tracking unit 56 may be installed in the gaming machine 909,294, in 96, without connection to the gaming machine.在其它实施方式中，使用与无线通信标准兼容的无线通信系统，主游戏控制器54可以与玩家跟踪单元56上的从处理器通信或者与例如具有触摸屏的显示器16、读卡器24和扬声器/扩音器58的外围器件直接通信，所述无线通信标准为例如蓝牙（Bluetooth)、 IrDA、 IEEE802.11a、正EE802.11b、 IEEE 802-llx (例如，其它IEEE 802.11标准，例如，IEEE802.11c、 IEEE802.11d、 IEEE802.11e,等等）、hiperlan/2、以及HomeRF。 In other embodiments, the compliant wireless communication using a wireless communication system, the master gaming controller 54 may communicate with the processor on the player tracking unit such as the display 56, or 16 and having a touch screen, a card reader 24 and the speaker / loudspeaker direct communication peripheral device 58, the wireless communication standard such as Bluetooth (Bluetooth), IrDA, IEEE802.11a, n EE802.11b, IEEE 802-llx (e.g. other IEEE 802.11 standards, e.g., IEEE802.11c , IEEE802.11d, IEEE802.11e, etc.), hiperlan / 2, and HomeRF.在又一个实施方式中，例如触摸屏显示器16的外围器件可以通过例如USB的有线通信系统而与在玩家跟踪单元56上的处理器通信，但还可以通过无线通信协议而与主游戏控制器54 In yet another embodiment, the peripheral devices such as a touch screen display 16 may be a wired communication system, for example, by a USB and a communication processor on the player tracking unit 56 and, but also through a wireless communication protocol with the master gaming controller 54
通信，所述无线通信协议为例如蓝牙（Bluetooth)、 IrDA、 IEEE 802.1 la、 IEEE 802.llb、 IEEE 802.1 lx (例如，其它IEEE 802.11标准，例如，IEEE802.11c、 IEEE 802.11d、 IEEE802.11e,等等）、hiperlan/2、以及HomeRF。 Communication, said wireless communication protocol such as Bluetooth (Bluetooth), IrDA, IEEE 802.1 la, IEEE 802.llb, IEEE 802.1 lx (e.g. other IEEE 802.11 standards, e.g., IEEE802.11c, IEEE 802.11d, IEEE802.11e, etc.), hiperlan / 2, and HomeRF.典型地，当游戏玩家想在游戏机上玩游戏并利用通过玩家跟踪单元可用的玩家跟踪服务时，游戏玩家将例如磁条卡的玩家跟踪卡插入到读卡器24中。 Typically, when a game player wants to play a game on the gaming machine and utilize the player tracking units are available through the player tracking services, the game player, for example, a magnetic stripe card player tracking card into a card reader 24.当已经插入磁条卡后，玩家跟踪单元56可以检测该事件并接收包含在卡上的一些识别信息。 When a magnetic stripe card has been inserted, the player tracking unit 56 may detect this event and receive some identifying information contained on the card.例如，可以由玩家跟踪单元56接收在磁条卡上编码的玩家姓名、地址、以及玩家跟踪帐号。 For example, a player can be tracked by the receiving unit 56 in the magnetic stripe card encoding player name, address, and player tracking account.通常，玩家必须提供某种类型的识别信息，以利用在游戏机上可用的玩家跟踪服务。 Typically, the player must provide some type of identifying information in order to take advantage of available player tracking service on the gaming machine.对于目前的玩家跟踪程序，提供识别信息的最常用的手段是向希望参加给定玩家跟踪程序的每个玩家发放存储必要识别信息的磁条卡。 For the current player tracking program, to provide identification of the most common means is to give each player wishing to participate in the program given player tracking cards issued magnetic stripe to store the necessary identification information.在图3E、 9和10中，描述了使用'银行'磁条卡或者其它游戏机上的忠诚计划表示，允许没有玩家跟踪卡的新玩家注册玩家跟踪程序的方法。 In Fig. 3E, 9 and 10, describes the use of 'bank' magnetic stripe cards or loyalty programs on other gaming machines, it said the new player does not allow a player tracking card registration methods player tracking program.当玩家已经将她或他的玩家跟踪卡插入读卡器24之后，玩家跟踪单元56 可以、命令触摸屏显示器16在触摸屏显示器16上显示游戏玩家的姓名，而且可以选择性地显示要求游戏玩家通过具有显示在触摸屏显示器16上的字母-数字键的游戏服务界面而输入识别码来证明他们的身份的消息。 When the player has his or her player tracking card into the card reader 24, the player tracking unit 56 may command the touch screen display 16 to display the game player's name on the touch screen display 16, and may be selectively displayed by a game player having the required displayed on the touch screen display 16 of the letter - the number key game service interface and enter the ID to prove their identity message.该玩家可以使用他们的手指、尖笔或其组合来用触摸屏传感器输入他们的识别信息。 The player may use their finger, a stylus or combinations thereof to enter their identification information using the touch screen sensor.一旦已证明了游戏玩家的身份，玩家跟踪信息被传递到玩家跟踪服务器62上。 Once the game has proved the identity of the player, the player tracking information is passed to the player tracking server 62.典型地， 玩家跟踪服务器62存储玩家账户记录，该玩家帐户记录包括玩家先前积累的玩家跟踪点的数目。 Typically, a player tracking 62 players account records storage server, the players account records the number of players, including player tracking point of the previously accumulated.在游戏机上玩游戏期间，玩家跟踪单元56可以向主游戏控制器54査询玩游戏的信息，例如玩家在每个游戏上已经投注多少钱、开始每个游戏时的时间以及游戏机的位置。 During game play on the gaming machine, a player tracking information unit 56 can be queried to play the game to the main game controller 54, for example, a player in each game how much time position at the start of each game and game consoles have been betting.玩家跟踪单元56向玩家跟踪服务器62发送玩游戏的信息。 Player tracking unit 56 to transmit information to play the game player tracking server 62.当将玩家跟踪卡片插入读卡器24时，玩家跟踪服务器62可以使用由玩家跟踪单元56提供的玩游戏的信息，以产生玩家跟踪点并将这些点添加入由玩家跟踪卡识别的玩家跟踪帐户中。 When a player tracking card into the card reader 24, player tracking server 62 may use the game play information provided by the player tracking unit 56 to generate player tracking points and these points are added to the player tracking card by a player tracking account identified in.由玩家跟踪服务器62产生的玩家跟踪点存储在玩家跟踪服务器上的某种类型的存储器中。 Player tracking server 62 generated by the player tracking points are stored in some type on the player tracking server memory.为了向游戏玩家提供附加服务，玩家跟踪单元56和/或主游戏控制器可以与其它远程服务器通信，例如奖品服务器64、预约服务器65、奖励服务器（未 In order to provide additional services to a game player, a player tracking unit 56 and / or the master gaming controller may communicate with other remote servers, such as the prize server 64, a reservation server 65, bonus server (not
示出）。 show).这些服务器可以位于局域网络上或者可以位于游戏机90通过互联网可访问的远程网络上。 These servers can be located on a local area network or the network can be located on a remote consoles accessible through the Internet 90.使用触摸屏显示器16作为外围界面装置，可以将来自这些远程服务器的信息用于向在游戏机90上玩游戏的玩家提供游戏服务。 Using the touch screen display 16 as a peripheral interface device, information on these remote servers can be used to provide gaming services from to play the game on the gaming machine 90 players.例如， 例如64的奖品服务器可以被用于兌换玩家在游戏机上赢得的奖品，g卩，用于将奖品发送到玩家的地址。 For example, such a server 64 may be used to redeem the prize on the gaming machine player to win prizes, g Jie, for sending a prize to the player address.作为另一个示例，使用触摸屏显示器16，预约服务器65可以被玩家用于订餐或者进行娱乐预约。 As another example, using the touch screen display 16, the reservation server 65 may be used for ordering a player or entertainment reservation.参照图3C更详细地描述可以与触摸屏显示器16 —起使用的用于进行娱乐预定的游戏服务界面的实施方式。 Described in more detail with reference to FIG 3C may be a touch screen display 16-- from the embodiment used for entertainment predetermined game service interface.在2000年2月29日提交且名称为'Name Your Prize Game Playing Methodology'的共同待决美国专利申请No. 09/515,717中描述了在游戏机上提供奖品和奖品兌换的详细资料，在此为了所有目的引入其全部内容。 In 2000, filed February 29 and entitled 'Name Your Prize Game Playing Methodology' co-pending US Patent Application No. 09 / 515,717 describes the details of prizes and prize redemption on the gaming machine, in this order All aim to introduce its entirety.图2A-2D为用于本发明一些实施方式的触摸屏和显示器的方块图。 Figures 2A-2D is a block diagram of the present invention, some of the touch screen and the display according to the embodiment.在图2A中，示出两个显示屏，窄显示屏105和长高比约为4: 3的显示屏110。 In FIG. 2A, it shows two displays, a narrow display screen 105 and a length to height ratio of about 4: 3 display screen 110.传统上，在玩家跟踪单元上的显示屏使用LED显示屏，以显示包括文字与数字的单行文本，例如16字符显示，产生例如105的窄显示。 Conventionally, the display on the player tracking unit using a LED display to show the single line of text comprising alphanumeric, for example, 16 character display, for example, a narrow 105 generates display.触摸屏可以与LED 显-示屏一起使用，以省去玩家跟踪单元上的键区。 LED display with touch screen may - with the use of display screen, to omit the keypad on the player tracking unit.然而，彩色LCD显示屏可以比LED屏更优越，彩色LCD显示屏可以显示符号以及文字与数字字符。 However, the color LCD display screen may be superior than the LED, color LCD display can display symbols and alphanumeric character.在本发明的一个实施方式中，对角线为3.5英寸且分辨率为320x240个像素的彩色LCD显示屏可以与触摸屏一起用作触摸屏显示器。 In one embodiment of the present invention, a diagonal of 3.5 inches and a resolution of 320x240 pixels can be used as a multi-color LCD touch screen display with a touch screen.除了LCD和LED外， 可以将触摸屏与等离子体显示屏、CRT显示器以及与其它常规显示技术一起使用。 In addition to the LCD and LED, touch screen and a plasma display may be, CRT monitors, and used in conjunction with other conventional display technology.在图2B-2D中，描述了不同类型的触摸屏的三个实施方式，基于电阻的触摸屏（图2B)、基于电容的触摸屏（图2C)和表面声波触摸屏（图2D)。 In FIGS. 2B-2D, the embodiment described three embodiments of different types of touch screen, resistive touch screens based on (FIG. 2B), a capacitive based touch screen (FIG. 2C) and a surface acoustic wave touch screen (FIG. 2D).在图2B中，示出与显示器110集成为一体的电阻触摸屏111的实施方式。 In FIG 2B, a display 110 is integral with the resistive touch screen 111 of the embodiment.在电阻触摸屏111中，玻璃面板120涂覆的透明导电材料118。 In the resistive touch screen 111, a transparent conductive material 120 coated glass panel 118.用聚酯间隔点116 用于分隔聚酯覆盖片112与具有导电材料涂层118的玻璃面板120。 Polyester spaced points 116 used to separate the polyester cover sheet 112 and the glass panel 118 coated with a conductive material 120.与聚酯间隔点116接触的覆聚酯覆盖片120内表面涂覆有导电金属涂层114。 The point of contact with the polyester spacer 116 covering the inner cladding 120 polyester sheet surface is coated with a conductive metal coating 114.聚酯覆盖片的外表面可以覆盖有抗刮擦涂层（未示出）。 An outer surface of the polyester cover sheet may be covered with a scratch-resistant coating (not shown).使用环氧粘合剂或者其它安装工具，可以将玻璃面板120和其它层一起集成在可以安装在显示器110之上的触摸屏组件中。 Using an epoxy adhesive or other mounting means, may be integrated together with the glass panel 120 and other layers in the touch screen assembly may be mounted over the display 110.触摸屏控制器（未示出）用于施加穿过玻璃面板120的x轴111以及穿过 The x-axis 120 of the touch screen controller (not shown) for applying through the glass panel 111 and through the
覆盖片112的y轴113的小电压梯度，其在面板和覆盖片中产生小的电流。 The y-axis 112 of the cover sheet 113 is a small voltage gradient, which produces a small current in the panel and the cover sheet.用施加到玻璃面板120和覆盖片112上的电压，可以将电阻触摸屏的多层用作传感器。 And 112 with the voltage on the glass panel 120 is applied to the cover sheet, the multilayer resistive touch screen may be used as the sensor.当用尖笔或者其它工具将导电层114和118 —起按压时，穿过面板120 和覆盖片的电流改变。 When the stylus or other tool with the conductive layers 114 and 118 - When starting the pressing, the current changes through panel 120 and cover sheet.基于电流的改变，触摸屏控制器确定尖笔接触的x和y 坐标。 , The touch screen controller determines the x and y coordinates of the stylus of the contact based on the change of the current.在图2C中，示出与显示器110的电容触摸屏130的实施方式。 In Figure 2C, illustrates an embodiment of the capacitive touch screen display 110 130.在电容触摸屏130中，玻璃面板136的两侧涂覆有透明导电材料134和138。 In the capacitive touch screen 130, the glass panel 136 coated on both sides with a transparent electrically conductive material 134 and 138.内部导电层138可以初步用作防护。 Inner conductive layer 138 can initially be used as protection.触摸屏的外表面可以为抗刮擦涂层130。 The outer surface of the touchscreen 130 may be an anti-scratch coating.电极139 围绕触摸屏130的边缘均匀地分布，以施加均匀穿过外部导电层134的低压场。 Electrode 139 is uniformly distributed around the edge of the touch screen 130 to apply a uniform low pressure through the outer conductive layer 134 of the field.当手指或导电尖笔接触屏132时，电容耦合产生，伴随产生引起引入手指或尖笔的小电流的电压场。 When a finger or a conductive stylus contacts the screen 132, a capacitive coupling is generated, causing a small current is generated accompanying the introduction of a finger or stylus voltage field.测量来自触摸屏电极139角部的电流。 Measuring the current touch screen electrode 139 from the corner portion.触摸屏控制器(未示出）用所测量的电流来确定在屏上接触的位置。 The touch screen controller (not shown) with the measured current to determine the location of the contact on the screen.在图2D中，示出安装在显示器110上的波触摸屏的实施方式。 In FIG. 2D, shows an embodiment of wave touch screen mounted on the display 110.屏144是未被涂覆的玻璃面板。 Screen 144 is an uncoated glass panel.在一种类型的波触摸屏中，在角部中的转换器142在玻璃面板,.产生超声波。 In one type of wave touch screen, the converter 142 in the corner portion of the glass panel. Generate ultrasonic waves.反射器142用于在玻璃面板144上产生驻波图案。 A reflector 142 for generating a standing wave pattern on the glass panel 144.当使软头尖笔接触到面板144的表面时，转换器检测波的衰减，这可以被触摸屏控制器用于确定尖笔的坐标。 When the head so that the soft tip pen touches the surface of the panel 144, the converter detects the wave attenuator, this may be a touch screen controller to determine the coordinates of the stylus.在红外线触摸屏中，在屏边缘上的LED和光敏电阻器用于产生红外光束的栅格。 In the infrared touch screen, an LED on the edge of the screen and the photosensitive resistor for generating a grid of infrared beams.尖笔或手指可以用于遮断光束并且触摸屏控制器确定该遮断的坐标。 Stylus or finger can be used to interrupt the light beam and the touch screen controller determines the coordinates of the occlusion.对于本发明的大多数实施方式，基于电容的触摸屏更为优选，但本发明并不限于基于电容的触摸屏。 For most embodiments of the present invention, a capacitance-based touch screen is more preferable, but the present invention is not limited to capacitive based touch screens.电容触摸屏非常透明、耐用并具有高分辨率。 Capacitive touch screen is very transparent, durable and has a high resolution.然而， 电容触摸屏通常比电阻触摸屏更为昂贵。 However, capacitive touch screen is generally more expensive than resistive touch screens.进一步，当手指在电容接触屏上被用作尖笔时，少量的电流引入手指， 一些游戏玩家可能认为这令人讨厌。 Further, when a finger is used as a stylus on a capacitive touch screen, a small amount of current into the finger that some gamers may think it annoying.由此， 在一些实施方式中，可以将其它触摸屏类型，例如电阻触摸屏或波触摸屏，用于本发明。 Thus, in some embodiments, the other may be a touch screen type, such as resistive touch screen or a wave touch screen, used in the present invention.触摸屏控制器处理来自触摸屏传感器的信号并且将触摸屏事件数据传递到利用触摸屏事件数据的一个或多个游戏器件。 The touch screen controller processes signals from the touch screen sensor and passes touch screen event data to one or more gaming devices that utilize touch screen event data.例如，在触摸屏上的接触点的x和y坐标可以被玩家跟踪单元上的处理器、主游戏控制器或其组合使用，以允许用户通过游戏服务界面（见图3A-3D)浏览并输入游戏信息。 For example, x and y coordinates of the contact point on the touch screen may be a processor on the player tracking unit, a master gaming controller or combinations thereof used to allow a user through the game service interface (see Figure 3A-3D) to browse and enter the game information.通常，与触摸屏通信的逻辑器件，例如在玩家跟踪单元上的处理器或者主游戏控制器，使 Typically, the touch screen and the logical device communications, such as in the player tracking unit or master gaming controller processor, so
用器件驱动器接收来自触摸屏控制器的触摸屏事件数据。 Receiving a touch screen event data from the touch screen controller with the device driver.该触摸屏控制器可以为与触摸屏组件分离的部件。 The touch screen controller may be separate from the touch screen assembly member.该触摸屏组件包括触摸屏传感器的多层并被安装在显示器上。 The touch screen assembly comprises a multilayer touch screen sensor and is mounted on a display.在本发明的一个实施方式中，该触摸屏控制器被集成在触摸屏组件中。 In one embodiment of the present invention, the touch screen controller is integrated into the touch screen assembly.图3A-3H为用于本发明一些实施方式的游戏服务界面的方块图。 FIGS. 3A-3H for the game service interfaces for some embodiments of the present invention, a block diagram.在每个图中，示出可以显示在本发明的触摸屏显示器上的游戏服务界面的单'页面'。 In each figure, the game service interface may be displayed on the touch screen display according to the present invention a single 'page.'然而，游戏服务界面并不限于单页面。 However, the game service interface is not limited to a single page.可以将多页面与每个游戏服务界面一起使用，以提供特定的游戏服务。 Multi-page can be used with each game service interface to provide a particular game service.由此，在一些实施方式中，为了利用游戏服务界面接收游戏服务，可以要求用户浏览多页面。 Thus, in some embodiments, the gaming service in order to receive the service using the game interface, you can require users to browse multiple pages.仅为了说明目的而提供每个游戏服务界面的部件布置，部件布置并不限于在每张图中的布置。 Provided for the purpose of illustration only member arranged for each game service interface, each member is disposed is not limited to the arrangement in FIG.由此，可以改变布置参数，包括，但不限于：1)在每页面上所包括的部件类型（即，'按钮'和其它输入区域）；2)每页面上的按钮尺寸；3)每页面上的按钮形状（例如正方形、椭圆形、矩形、星形、n边形等）；4)按钮的色彩方案；5)在每个按钮上的阿拉伯数字文本或者符号；以及6) _麥面的背景色彩方案。 Thus, layout parameters can be changed, including, but not limited to: 1) the type face of each page included in the member (i.e., 'button' and other input areas); 2) the size of each page button surface; 3) for each page button shape (e.g., square, oval, rectangular, star-shaped, n-sided polygon, etc.); 4) the button color schemes; 5) Arabic text or symbols on each button; and 6) of the wheat flour _ background color scheme.可以以2-D呈现输入按钮。 Input buttons may be presented in 2-D.在一些实施方式中， 可以根据玩家个人的喜好定制用于特定游戏服务界面的页面布置。 In some embodiments, can be customized for the particular game service interface page layout according to the player's personal preferences.在具体实施方式中，按钮可以呈现有表面阴影和纹理以表现三维，并可制成动画。 In a specific embodiment, the button may be presented with a surface texture and shading to represent a three-dimensional, and may be animated.作为三维动画的示例，当在触摸屏上触摸按钮时，其可以表现为移入屏幕中。 As an example of three-dimensional animation, when the touch of a button on the touch screen, which can be expressed as moved into the screen.进一步，按钮上的符号可以显示为二维或三维动画。 Further, the symbol on the button to display a two-dimensional or three-dimensional animation.例如，按钮上的文本可以显示为闪光或者活动，或者按钮上的字符和符号可以显示为活动。 For example, text on the buttons may be displayed as a flash or activity, or characters and symbols on the buttons may be displayed as active.可以根据在游戏机上所玩游戏的主题选择字符和符号。 Characters and symbols can be selected based on games played on the gaming machine themes.例如，对于'小绿人'游戏，喝饮料的小绿人的动画可以被用于在游戏机上要饮料。 For example, for 'little green men' game, drink a little green men animations can be used on a console to drink.每个界面还可以包括有音频布置。 Each interface may further include an audio arrangement.例如，当玩家触摸显示在触摸屏外围器件上的游戏服务界面上的特定按钮或者完成特定任务时，可以从位于玩家跟踪单元或者游戏机上的音频器件中发出相应的声音。 For example, when a player touches a specific button on the display on the touch screen peripheral device or a game service interface to accomplish a specific task, a corresponding sound may be issued from the audio device located on the player tracking unit or gaming machine.该声音可以包括但不限于音乐、语音消息（例如'欢迎'或者'谢谢'）以及噪音（例如嗡嗡声或者哗哗声）。 The sound may include, but are not limited to music, voice messages (such as 'welcome' or 'thank you') and noise (such as buzzing or rushing sound).在一些实施方式中，可以根据用户的喜好定制音频布置。 In some embodiments, the audio can be customized according to user preference disposed.例如，语音消息可以为由玩家选择的语言。 For example, a voice message can be selected by the language of the player.可以在与游戏机连接或者与游戏机通信的输出器件上产生界面。 It may be generated on an interface or connection in communication with the gaming machine and the gaming machine output device.例如，界面可以产生在与游戏机连接的玩家跟踪单元的显示屏、游戏机的主显示器或次级显示器上，或者在与结合到游戏机的逻辑器件通信的便携式器件上，例如手机、PDA (即手持式计算机）或者手机/PDA联合体。 For example, the interface may generate player tracking unit connected to the gaming machine display screen on the gaming machine main display or secondary display on the portable device or in communication with a logic device coupled to the gaming machine, such as a mobile phone, a PDA ( ie handheld computer) or mobile phone / PDA Commonwealth.进一步，通过游戏机或者一些其它局部网关，当提供各种界面时，便携式器件还可以与远程服务器通信。 Further, the gaming machine or some other local gateway, when a variety of interfaces, the portable device may also communicate with a remote server.在图4C中，描述了在与结合到游戏机的玩家跟踪单元无线通信的便携式器件上界面的产生。 In Figure 4C, the interface generated on the portable wireless communication device tracking unit coupled to the gaming machine with a player.在图3A中，示出可以显示在触摸屏显示器201上的计量游戏服务界面200。 In FIG. 3A, shown may be displayed on the touch screen display 201 metering game service interface 200.该计量游戏服务界面允许游艺场所经营者查看游戏机上的计量信息。 The metering game service interface allows casino operators to view information on metering consoles.当用计量界面200或另一个界面登录系统时，游艺场所经营者可以使用退币按钮202 (hopperbutton),以获得关于游戏机上的退币器的计量信息，或者打印机按钮204，以获得关于游戏机上打印机的计量信息，该打印机发放可以用于获得在其它游戏机上的游戏信用或者用于兌换现金的打印票单。 When the metering interface 200 or another interface to log system, casino operators can use the return button 202 (hopperbutton), in order to obtain information about the measurement on the gaming machine's coin, or a printer button 204, in order to obtain information about the consoles metering information of the printer, the printer can be used to obtain payment on other game consoles credit or print a ticket redeemed for cash.计量信息可以显示在显示区206上。 Metering information may be displayed on the display area 206.游艺场所经营者可以使用计算器按钮208、 210、 212、 214， 以执行计量数据的算术运算。 Casino operator may use calculator buttons 208, 210, 212, 214, to perform an arithmetic operation of metering data.例如，'后退'按钮208和'输入'按钮210可以被用于输入数据。 For example, 'back' button 208 and the 'enter' button 210 may be used to input data.算术函数按钮212和数字按钮214可以被用于进行各种算术运算。 The arithmetic function buttons 212 and numeric buttons 214 may be used to perform various arithmetic operations.界面200还可以包括游戏专用功能键。 Interface 200 may also include a game dedicated function keys.例如，功能键206可以允许使用者将计量信息转换成不同的游戏机面额，例如五分镍币（nickd)、四分之一美元（quarter)或一美元（dollar)机。 For example, function keys 206 may allow a user to convert the metering information to different gaming machine denominations such as nickels (nickd), USD (Quarter) quarter or one U.S. dollar (Dollar) machine.在图3B中，示出可以显示在触摸屏显示器上的信用游戏服务225。 In FIG. 3B, there is shown in the game credit may be displayed on the touchscreen display 225 service.信用界面225可以由玩家将所赢取的信用和现金转移到玩家可访问的各种账户中。 Credit the interface 225 can be won by the player credit and cash transfers to the accounts of various players can access.例如，玩家能够使用卡按钮220、票单按钮222或者银行按钮224，将他们的信用或现金的一部分转移到智能卡、打印票单或银行账户中。 For example, the player can use the card button 220, the ticket button 222 or button 224 banks, to transfer part of their credit or cash to the smart card, printed ticket or bank account.数字按钮214 可以被用于输入账户信息和PIN号码以及用于进行算术运算。 Numeric buttons 214 may be used to enter account information and PIN numbers as well as for performing arithmetic operations.功能键226可以被用作例如在美元、英镑和日元之间的货币转换。 Function keys 226 may be used, for example currency conversion between the dollar, sterling and the yen.为了将钱转移到银行帐户， 通过根据图1所示的玩家跟踪单元或游戏机可用的网络连接，玩家跟踪单元或者游戏机可以与银行通信。 To transfer money to bank account, by connecting the game machine according to the player tracking unit shown in FIG. 1 or the available network, the gaming machine or the player tracking unit may communicate with the bank.在图3C中，示出可以显示在触摸屏显示器上的预约界面230。 In FIG 3C, there is shown may be displayed on the touch screen display interface 230 of the reservation.在例如游艺场所的游戏设施中，预约界面可以被玩家用于预定食品和娱乐。 In facilities such as casino games, the Scheduler can be a player for the intended food and entertainment.当按下娱乐按钮236或餐馆按钮236时，可以显示在每个种类中的不同选择。 When the entertainment button 236 is pressed or the restaurant button 236 may be displayed in a different selection in each category.当按下餐馆按钮236时，显示三个餐馆选择238。 When the restaurant button 236 is pressed, three restaurant selection display 238.当按下信息按钮232时，可以在显示区216中显示关于娱乐选择或餐馆选择的信息。 When pressing the info button 232 may be displayed or information regarding the restaurant selected entertainment options in display region 216.例如，信息按钮232可以被用于 For example, the info button 232 may be used
确定供应'亚洲烹饪'的餐馆选择之一。 Determine supply one choice of restaurants 'Asian cooking' of.使用数据按钮242、数据选择按钮244、 时间按钮246和时间选择按钮，玩家可以选择预约的时间和日期。 Button 242 using the data, a data selection button 244, time button 246 and time selection buttons, a player may select a time and date of the reservation.然后，当按下预约按钮240时，可以将预约请求发送到远程预约服务器65或根据图1所述的另一个远程服务器中。 Then, when the reservation button 240 is pressed, the reservation request can be sent to another remote server or FIG. 1 of the remote reservation server 65.当远程服务器确认该预约后，确认消息可以显示在预约界面上。 When a remote server confirms the reservation confirmation message may be displayed on the reservation interface.在一些实施方式中，当游戏机包括打印机时，可以发给玩家打印的预约收据。 In some embodiments, when the gaming machine includes a printer, a player can be sent to the reservation receipt printing.在此描述的预约界面230以及其它游戏服务界面不能够被使用触摸屏界面的所有玩家得到。 Scheduler 230 described herein as well as other game service interfaces can not be obtained using a touch screen interface for all players.例如，在一些实施方式中，仅根据游戏设施确定的标准而具有特定'地位'的玩家能够访问特定的游戏服务界面。 Players example, in some embodiments, the gaming facility based solely on the criteria established and have a particular 'status' that can access a particular game service interface.例如，在玩家玩一定量的游戏后，给予玩家对预约界面230的访问，以获得免费餐或演出，作为对他们所玩游戏量的报偿（例如赠送券）。 For example, after a certain amount of players to play the game, giving players access to the reservation interface 230 to obtain a free meal or performance, as the amount of games they play to reward (such as gift vouchers).在图3D中，示出了可以显示在触摸屏外周器件上的奖品游戏服务界面225。 In FIG. 3D, it is shown may be displayed on the outer periphery of the touch screen device prize game service interface 225.奖品界面可以被玩家用于兑换在游戏机上被给予的奖品。 Prizes interface can be used for prize redemption players on the game machine is given.例如，奖品可以被给予为：1)在游戏机上的'彩票头奖'；2)基于作为部分忠诚计划被跟踪的玩游戏的历史记录；或者3)在游戏设施中的部分促销。 For example, the prize may be given to: 1) at the gaming machine 'lottery jackpot'; 2) a history-based game play as part of a loyalty program being traced; or 3) part of the promotion in the gaming facility.可以按下奖品按钮258，以选择奖品之一。 258 prizes can press the button to select one of the prizes.当按下信息按钮232时，关于奖品选择的信息可以显示在显示区216中。 When pressing the information button 232, the information about the prize selection may be displayed in the display area 216.使用信用按钮252、点按钮254和EFT(电子资金转移） 按钮，玩家可以使用在游戏机上可用的信用、忠诚点和来自银行账户的现金的结合来兑换特定的奖品。 Use credit button 252, the button 254 and EFT (electronic funds transfer) button, the player can use a credit, combined with loyalty points available on the gaming machine and cash from a bank account to redeem a particular prize.玩家可以使用奖品兌换界面250的附加页面来输入例如送货地址的附加信息。 Players can use the 250 pages of additional prizes exchange interface to enter additional information such as shipping address.在图3E中，示出本发明的显示在触摸屏外围器件上的忠诚计划注册界面260。 In FIG. 3E, a display of the present invention shown on the touch screen loyalty program registration interface 260 peripheral devices.使用忠诚计划注册界面260，不是例如玩家跟踪程序的忠诚计划的成员的玩家，可以使用界面260以加入作为部分'游戏点'注册的游戏机上的计划。 Use loyalty program registration interface 260, for example, a player is not a member of the loyalty program of player tracking program, you can plan on a game console 260 to be added as part of the 'game point' registered to use interface.在一个实施方式中，玩家可以获得'银行'磁条卡或者在游戏机上的读卡器不识别的另外类型的忠诚计划表示，例如智能卡。 In one embodiment, the player can get 'bank' or magnetic stripe card reader on the gaming machine does not recognize the loyalty program of another type of representation, such as a smart card.接着，在游戏机上，玩家可以从在游戏机上可用的游戏服务菜单上请求在游戏机上的'游戏点'注册。 Then, on the gaming machine, the player can request on the gaming machine 'game point' registered from the console games available on the service menu.在游戏机上玩游戏期间开始之前可以开始在游戏机上的'游戏点'注册（例如，玩家在游戏机上注册，然后玩一个或多个游戏），在游戏机上玩游戏的期间中可以开始在游戏机上的'游戏点'注册（例如在注册之前和注册之后出现玩家玩游戏），以及在玩游戏期间的结束可以开始在游戏机上的'游戏点'注册（例 During game play on the gaming machine can be started on the gaming machine 'game point' before the start of registration (for example, a player on the gaming machine register, and then play one or more games), during game play on the gaming machine can start on game consoles 'game point' registered (eg players play the game occur after registration and before the registration), and at the end of the period can start playing the game on the gaming machine 'game point' registration (cases
如玩家注册但不继续玩）。 But not registered as a player to continue playing).在游戏机上已经开始'游戏点'注册之后，在玩家跟踪单元或游戏机上的逻辑装置可以指示玩家将'银行'磁条卡插入读卡器中并在触摸屏显示器上显示忠诚计划注册界面260。 On the game console has begun 'game point' After registration, the logic device on the player tracking unit or gaming machine may instruct players to 'bank' magnetic stripe card into the reader and show loyalty program registration screen 260 on the touch screen display.使用手指或尖笔，玩家可以输入他们的姓名、地址以及注册所要求的其它识别信息。 Use your finger or stylus, players can enter their name, address and other identifying information required for registration.可以使用注册信息的不同组合，并且不限于姓名和地址。 Different combinations of registration information may be used and is not limited to a name and address.可以用数字输入按钮214和字母输入按钮266输入所要求的识别信息。 Button 266 can enter input identification information required by the digital input button 214 and the letter.所要求的信息可以用不同的语言输入，并不限于英语或其它拉丁系语言。 The required information may be input in different languages, not limited to English or other Romance languages.由此，输入按钮266可以适用于使用不同于罗马字母的字母的语言。 Thus, the input buttons 266 may be adapted to use the Roman alphabet language is different letters.在一些实施方式中，作为输入该信息的手段，触摸屏显示器可以与位于玩家跟踪单元上的逻辑器件、玩家跟踪服务器或游戏机上的手写识别软件一起使用，以允许玩家在显示屏上写入例如他们的姓名和地址的信息。 In some embodiments, as a means to enter the information, the touch screen display may be used with logic devices located on the player tracking unit handwriting recognition software on the player tracking server or the gaming machine together, for example to allow the player to write them on a display screen the name and address information.通过手写识别软件可以将'所写的'信息转换成文本并且电存储。 It may be 'written' information into a text by handwriting recognition software and electricity storage.例如，玩家姓名，'JOE' 264被写在笔迹模板区262中。 For example, the player's name, 'JOE' 264 is written in the handwriting template region 262.可以用手写识别软件识别该名字并将其转换成文本。 It can be identified with the name of the handwriting recognition software and converted to text.可以用不同于英语的其它语言以及不同于罗马字母的字母或符号，例如在日本使用的日本汉字符号或平假名或片假名字母写入所需的注册信息。 It may be different from other languages as well as English alphabet different than the Roman alphabet or symbol, for example, Japanese Kanji symbol, or hiragana or katakana letters used in Japanese writing the required registration information.此外，玩家可以在笔迹模板区262中签写他们的名字。 In addition, players can sign their names written in the handwriting area 262 in the template.玩家的签名可以被记录并存储，以便其可以随后用作识别的目的。 Player's signature may be recorded and stored so that it may subsequently be used for identification purposes.例如，在玩家跟踪期开始之前或另一个游戏服务开始之前，可以用比较软件比较从笔迹模板区记录的签名和存储的签名。 For example, before the start of stage or another player tracking service before the start of the game, you can compare the handwriting from the template region recorded by comparison software signatures and signature storage.当比较签名时，允许进行玩家跟踪期或其它游戏服务。 When comparing signatures, allowing the player tracking of game or other services.当不比较签名时，可以终止玩家跟踪期或游戏服务，或者在玩家跟踪期被允许之前，可以要求来自玩家的附加识别信息。 When not compare signatures, may terminate or game player tracking of service, or follow-up period before a player is allowed to, may require additional identification information from the player.具有手写识别和特征识别软件的字母输入按钮和笔迹模板区不限于忠诚计划注册界面260，并可以与本发明的任何其它游戏服务界面一起使用。 Letters with handwriting recognition and feature recognition software, handwriting input buttons and the template region is not limited to loyalty program registration interface 260 and may be used with any other game service interfaces of the present invention.除了签名，可以从玩家其它生物计量信息作为注册程序的一部分。 In addition to the signature, as part of the registration process biometric information from other players.例如， 照相机可以用于记录玩家脸部的图像或者进行玩家视网膜的视网膜扫描。 For example, the camera may be used to record an image of the face of the player or players for retinal scans the retina.作为另一个示例，指纹阅读器可以用于记录玩家的指纹。 As another example, a fingerprint reader can be used to record fingerprints player.扬声器可以用于记录玩家的声音。 Speakers can be used to record the voice of the player.在一个实施方式中，生物计量信息可以被用作审核的目的，以鉴别玩家已经确实注册。 In one embodiment, the biometric information can be used for the purpose of the audit, to identify the player has indeed registered.在另一个实施方式中，在注册程序期间输入的生物计量信息可以用于证明玩家的身份，以开始忠诚计划期。 In another embodiment, the biometric information entered during the registration process can be used to prove the identity of the player to start loyalty program period.例如，当玩家用忠诚计划表示开始忠诚计划期时，所记录的玩家的指纹可以用于证明玩家的身份。 For example, when a player loyalty program represents the start of a loyalty program, recorded in the player's fingerprint can be used to prove as a player.在注册程 In the registration process
序中所用的生物计量输入器件，例如，照相机、指纹阅读器、扬声器可以位于玩家跟踪单元、游戏机、游艺场所的信息亭或任何其它用于注册玩家的游戏器件上。 The biometric input devices used in sequence, e.g., a camera, a fingerprint reader, a speaker may be located on the player tracking unit, a gaming machine, casino kiosk or any other gaming device used to register a player.玩家用游戏服务界面输入所需信息后，玩家可以触摸注册按钮268，将要求注册的消息发送到玩家跟踪服务器上。 After the game the player with the service interface, enter the required information, the player can touch register button 268, the registration requirements of the message sent to the player tracking server.注册请求消息至少包括玩家输入的识别信息和来自在注册程序中所用的来自忠诚点表示的识别信息，例如从磁条卡记录的序列号或者记录在忠诚点表示上的其它识别信息。 The registration request message includes at least the identification information entered by the player and identification information from the loyalty points from a representation of the registration procedure used in, for example, a serial number from a magnetic stripe card or recording other record identification information on the loyalty points indicated.注册请求消息可以由位于玩家跟踪单元中或者位于游戏机中的逻辑器件产生，例如主游戏控制器。 Registration request message may be located in the player tracking unit or gaming machine at a logic device is produced by, for example, master gaming controller.在接收来自玩家跟踪服务器的注册确认之后，玩家在游戏机上所玩的任何附加游戏都可被记录在游戏机上并可被作为部分玩家跟踪期发送到玩家跟踪服务器上。 After receiving confirmation of registration from the player tracking server, the player on the gaming machine to play any additional games can be recorded and can be sent as part of the follow-up period to the player on the player tracking server on the console.在一个实施方式中，游戏机可以向玩家发放打印收据以确认注册程序。 In one embodiment, the gaming machine can print a receipt issued to the player to confirm the registration process.在注册后，磁条卡或其它在注册程序中所用的忠诚点表示，可以被玩家用于在其它游戏机上开始玩家跟踪期或者使用磁条卡通过忠诚计划参加玩家可得的其它忠诚计划活动。 After registering, magnetic stripe cards or other registration procedures used in the representation of loyalty points that can be used to start a player on another player tracking of game consoles or a magnetic stripe card loyalty program to participate in other activities players can get through the loyalty program.根据图9和图10描述本发明的游戏点注册方法的附加详细资料。 Additional details of the present invention described in game points registered according to the method of FIGS. 9 and 10.如上所述，'游戏点'注册方法不限于位于玩家跟踪单元上的触摸屏显示器。 As described above, 'coin' registration method is not limited to the player tracking units located on the touch screen display.可以在用作游戏机上的主显示器或用作游戏机上的次级显示器的触摸屏显示器实施该方法。 The method can be used as the main display on the gaming machine or a game machine as a secondary display on the touch screen display.此外，可以在位于游艺场所的信息亭上的触摸屏显示器上实施该方法。 Further, the method can be located on a casino kiosk on the touch screen display.该游艺场所的信息亭可以包括读卡器和包含空白磁条卡或用作忠诚计划表示的其它游戏器件的箱（basket)。 The casino kiosk may include other components of the game box and a card reader loyalty program that contains blank magnetic stripe card or as indicated (basket).例如，智能卡或房间钥匙可以被用作忠诚计划表示。 For example, a smart card or room key can be used as a loyalty program representation.在该信息亭中，玩家可以使用空白磁条卡和触摸屏显示界面， 以注册针对游戏机的忠诚计划，例如如上所述的玩家游戏跟踪程序。 In the kiosk, players can use a blank magnetic stripe cards and touch screen display interface to register the loyalty program for game consoles, such as a game player tracking program described above.还可以用许多不同输入机构或输入机构的组合来实施'游戏点'注册。 You can also use a combination of a number of different input mechanisms or input mechanism to implement the 'game point' registration.输入机构可以位于游戏机或其它游戏器件（例如游艺场所的信息亭和手持式无线器件）上，用于进行'游戏点'注册。 Input means may be located in the gaming machine or other gaming devices (e.g. casino kiosks and handheld wireless devices) on, for a 'coin' registration.例如，用户可以用扬声器和语音识别软件输入一些注册信息。 For example, a user can enter some registration information with speaker and voice recognition software.在另外的示例中，利用显示在显示屏上的字母-数字符号和游戏机上的选择机制来选择显示屏上的符号，用户可以输入注册信息。 In a further example, the use of the letters displayed on the screen - numeric symbols and selection mechanism on the gaming machine to select the symbol on the display, the user can enter registration information.选择机制可以为下列各项中的一项或多项，但不限于输入按钮、操纵杆、跟踪球禾口鼠标。 Selection mechanism may be of the following one or more of, but not limited to, input button, joystick, trackball mouse Wo mouth.在本发明的又一个实施方式中，游艺场所服务人员可以开始游戏点注册。 In yet another embodiment of the present invention, a casino service personnel can start the game point registration.
当玩家在游戏机上玩游戏并且还没有开始玩家跟踪期时，在玩家跟踪单元上的灯光、触摸屏显示器（例如改变色彩）或者一些其它界面器件（例如图4A和4B)可以表明玩家作为游艺场所的例如玩家跟踪程序的忠诚计划的成员对游艺场所是有价值的。 When a player plays a game on the gaming machine and has not yet begun player tracking period, on the player tracking unit of the light, the touch screen display (e.g., change color) or some other interface device (e.g., FIGS. 4A and 4B) may indicate that the player as a casino's for example, members of the loyalty program of player tracking program for casino is valuable.例如，当玩家已经在游艺场所确定的一定量的时间上已经投注大量的钱，可以激活玩家跟踪单元上的灯光。 For example, when the player has determined the amount of the casino bet time has a lot of money, the lights can be activated on the player tracking unit.经过的游艺场所人员可以注意该灯光并询问玩家是否想参与玩家跟踪程序。 After the casino staff can note the light and ask the player if the players want to participate in the tracking program.游艺场所服务人员在由游艺场所服务人员携带的手持式无线器件上的触摸屏显示器上输入玩家的注册信息， 并从附接到手持式器件的读卡器上获得卡的信息。 Enter the casino service personnel on on handheld wireless devices carried by the casino service touch-screen display of the player registration information, and obtain information from the card attached to a hand-held device reader.手持式无线装置使用无线通信标准，例如，但不限于，蓝牙（Bluetooth)、IrDA(红外直接访问）、正EE 802.11a, IEEE 802.11b、正EE 802.11x、 hiperlan/2、以及HomeRF，与玩家跟踪单元通信。 The handheld wireless device using a wireless communication standard such as, but not limited to, Bluetooth (Bluetooth), IrDA (Infrared Direct Access), n-EE 802.11a, IEEE 802.11b, n-EE 802.11x, hiperlan / 2, and HomeRF, with the player tracking a communication unit.在输入所需信息后，注册请求消息可以通过在玩家跟踪单元上的有线接口或无线接口发送到玩家跟踪服务器（见图4B)上，通过在游戏机上的无线接口发送到玩家跟踪服务器上，或者直接从手持式器件发送到玩家跟踪服务器上。 After entering the required information, the registration request message may be sent through a wired or wireless interface on the player tracking unit to the player tracking server (see FIG. 4B) on the player tracking server to send through the wireless interface on the gaming machine, or sent directly from the handheld device to the player tracking server.在从玩家跟踪服务器上接收注册确认之后，玩家可以获得被激活的玩家跟一蹿卡，其可以用于在游戏机上开始玩家跟踪期。 After receiving confirmation of registration from the player tracking server, the player can get activated with a jump player card, which can be used in the gaming machine starts player tracking period.可以用于提供'游戏点'玩家跟踪注册的手持式无线器件的示例记载在由Rowe在2000年4月7日提交的， 名称为'Wireless Gaming Environment'的共同待决美国申请No. 09/544,844， 在此为了所有目的引入其全部内容。 It can be used to provide a hand-held wireless devices 'game point' registered player tracking example described by Rowe in the No. 09 / 544,844, 2000 filed April 7, entitled 'Wireless Gaming Environment' co-pending US application in this introduction for all purposes in its entirety.IrDA为使用红外光脉冲通信的器件的标准。 IrDA devices using infrared light pulse communication standard.手持式器件，例如PDA (个人数字助手）可以使用红外光脉冲利用IrDA通信标准或者一些其它红外通信标准，与玩家跟踪单元和游戏机通信。 Handheld devices such as a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant) may be used infrared light pulses using IrDA communication standard or some other infrared communication standard, and the player tracking units gaming machines communicate.通常，使用IrDA的红外通信需要视距通信。 Typically, IrDA infrared communication need line of sight communications.仅为示例的目的而给出如上所述的游戏服务界面，可以将许多其它类型的游戏服务界面与本发明的触摸屏显示器一起使用。 Given for purposes of illustration only game service interface as described above, may be used with a touch screen display many other types of game service interface of the present invention.例如，游戏服务界面可以被用于允许玩家指定各种玩游戏的喜好。 For example, a game service interface may be used to allow a player to specify a variety of game play preferences.可以用在本发明中的这些界面的其它详细资料描述在共同待决美国专利申请No. 09/819,152中，该专利是由Paulsen 在2001年3月27日提交，名称为'Interactive Game Playing Preferences',在此为了所有目的引入其全部内容。 Other details may be used in the present invention, these interfaces are described in co-pending US Patent Application No. 09 / 819,152, filed by the patent Paulsen in March 27, 2001, entitled 'Interactive Game Playing Preferences' in this introduction for all purposes in its entirety.作为另一个示例，玩家可以使用触摸屏显示器和游戏服务界面，以选择不同娱乐内容源，例如视频程序、音频程序和基于互联网的服务。 As another example, the player can use the touch screen display and game service interface, to select a different source of entertainment content, such as video programs, audio programs and Internet-based services.显示屏可以用于显示娱乐内容，例如电影、体育事件、广告和 Display can be used to display entertainment content, such as movies, sports events, advertising and
其它促销。 Other promotions.对于基于互联网的服务，具有触摸屏的显示器可以用于操作网络浏览器和其它基于万维网的应用。 For Internet based services, the display with a touch screen may be used to operate a web browser and other web-based applications.可以用本发明的触摸屏显示器提供的娱乐内容源和界面的一些示例，包括基于互联网的娱乐内容源，被描述在共同待决美国专利申请No. 09/665,526中，该申请由Nelson等在2000年9月9日提交，名称为'Play Per View',在此为了所有目的引入其全部内容。 Some examples of entertainment content sources and interfaces with a touch screen display of the present invention is provided may be, include those based entertainment content sources of the Internet, are described in co-pending U.S. Patent Application No. 09 / 665,526, which application is made by Nelson et al in 2000 September 9 submitted the name 'Play Per View', in this introduction for all purposes in its entirety.在又一个示例中， 玩家可以使用游戏服务界面来选择玩家可得到的促销并接收用于获得促销的打印的优惠券。 In yet another example, the player can use the game service interface to select players available for the promotion and receive for promotional print coupons.图3F和3G为用于在游戏机上提供损害最小化的游戏服务界面的方块图。 Figure 3F and 3G for damages provided on a console game service interface to minimize the block diagram.可以将损害最小化定义为当玩家参加游戏活动时，使可能出现的对玩家的损害最小。 You can minimize the damage when the player is defined as the time to participate in activities and games, to minimize damage to the player may arise.损害最小化的一方面可以涉及提供能够使玩家在参加游戏活动期间做出更好决定的信息和工具。 Harm minimization on the one hand can involve players capable of providing information and tools to make better decisions during the game to participate in activities.例如，用于表示玩家已经参加多长时间的游戏活动的显示可以提供允许玩家作出针对结束其游戏活动的更好的决定的信息。 For example, it used to indicate how long the player has to participate in a game show activity may provide information that allows players to make better decisions for the end of their game activity.损害最小化的另一个方面可以涉及设置对玩家玩游戏的限制。 Another aspect of minimizing the damage may involve restrictions set for the players play the game.例如，可以对玩家在游戏机上在一段时间上能够投注的量设定限制。 For example, you can set limits on the amount of players on game consoles over a period of time can bet.当超过限制时，可以j求玩家终止其在游戏机上的游戏。 When the limit is exceeded, the player can seek to terminate its j games on consoles.该限制可以由玩家以自由意志自己施加， 可以由例如游艺场所经营者的游戏机经营者施加，或者可以由设置游戏机的管理机构施加。 This limitation can be applied by the free will of their own players, game consoles, for example, can be applied by the operator of the casino operators, gaming machine or may be applied by a set of regulatory agencies.这些限制可以因玩家不同，游艺场所不同或者游戏不同而变化。 These restrictions can be due to different players, or different casino games and different variations.在具体实施方式中，损害最小化规则和要求可以由游戏机位于的特定游戏权限所颁布。 In a specific embodiment, the damage can be minimized by the rules and requirements promulgated by the particular game consoles located privileges.颁布的规则可以规定成允许在特定游戏中进行游戏的条件。 Rules promulgated regulations to permit conditions may play in a particular game.例如， 特定的游戏权限可以颁布在游戏机上应该具有监控玩游戏的时钟。 For example, the authority may issue a specific game on a gaming machine should have a clock to monitor game play.玩家可以选择显示或者不显示监控他们玩游戏的时钟。 Players can choose to display or not display the clock monitoring of their game play.在其它示例中，游戏权限可以颁布当玩家在游戏机上玩游戏时，要突出地显示监控玩游戏的时钟。 In other examples, the authority may issue a game when players play the game on the gaming machine, to highlight the clock to monitor game play.在这种情形下， 玩家不能针对显示时钟作出选择。 In this case, the player can not make a choice for the clock display.在图3F和3G中，描述了在本发明的玩家跟踪单元上用于损害最小化的游戏服务界面的实施。 In FIGS. 3F and 3G, the embodiment is described on the player tracking unit of the present invention for minimizing damage to the game service interface.然而本发明不限于在玩家跟踪单元上的损害最小化。 However, the present invention is not limited to the player tracking units minimize damage.例如，可以在游戏机上而不是在玩家跟踪单元上实施用于损害最小化的游戏服务界面。 For example, instead of implementing a game service interface for minimizing the damage on the player tracking unit on the console.在另一个示例中，可以在位于例如二十一点或扑克的桌面游戏上的一个或多个器件上显示游戏服务界面。 In another example, the game service interface may be displayed on, for example, located on blackjack or poker table games to one or more devices.在又一个示例中，这些游戏服务界面可以在游戏终端上执行，该游戏终端通过互联网连接到向该游戏终端提供机会游戏的的远程服务器上。 In yet another example, the gaming service interface can be executed on the game terminal, the game terminal connected to a terminal provided to the game the game of chance on a remote server over the Internet.在进一步的示例中，可以在游戏玩家使用的便携式手持式器件上实施游戏服务界面（见图4C)。 In a further example, the game service interface may be implemented on a portable hand-held device used for a game player (see FIG. 4C).在图3F中，示出用于配置损害最小化界面的游戏服务界面270。 In FIG. 3F, a game service interface 270 is shown for configuring the interface to minimize damage.游戏服务界面270可以称为损害最小化配置界面。 Game service interface 270 may be referred to minimize damage configuration interface.在本发明的一个实施方式中，用户可以定制损害最小化界面。 In one embodiment of the present invention, the user may customize the harm minimization interface.在另一个实施方式中，损害最小化界面是不可定制的。 In another embodiment, the interface is not minimize damage customized.信息按钮232可以描述配置选择的概况。 Info button 232 may describe an overview of the configuration options.在该示例中，在图3G中，玩家可以能够选择投注限制、时间限制、用于显示在损害最小化界面280上的消息和信息。 In this example, in FIG. 3G, the player may be able to select wager limits, time limits, messages and information to minimize damage in the interface 280 for display.为了选择投注限制，玩家可以选择投注按钮275。 To select the betting limit, players can choose to bet button 275.投注限制可以为在游戏机上玩游戏期间中能够投注的量。 Bets can limit the amount of time playing games on consoles that can be bet.玩家可以用在界面上的按钮214输入投注限制。 Players can use the buttons on the interface 214 the input bet limits.玩家可以在他们可以玩的时间量上设定限制。 Players can set limits on the amount of time they can play.为了选择时间限制，玩家可以激活时间限制按钮274并用按钮214输入时间限制。 To select the time limit, the player may activate a time limit button 274 and input the time limit using the buttons 214.作为示例，玩家可以为输入他们在游戏机玩游戏的小时的时间限制。 As an example, the player can enter the time limit they play the game in the gaming machine hours.玩家可以选择的限制的其它示例包括但不限于游戏速度、输的量、赢的量、储蓄的量、所玩游戏的数目、己经!^的游戏数目以及已经输了的游戏数目。 Limits the number of other players can choose examples include, but are not limited to the amount of game speed, amount lose, win, the amount of savings, the game playing, already! ^ Number of games and the number of games have been lost.在一个实施方式中，游戏机可以显^示预选限制的屏幕。 In one embodiment, the gaming machine may significantly limit ^ preselected screen shown.例如，对于时间限制，该屏可以显示l/2小时、l个小时、 11/2小时、2小时及其它，游戏机可以用于允许玩家选择这些所显示的限制中的一个。 For example, for the time limits, the screen may display the l / 2 h, l hour, 11/2 hours, 2 hours, and further, the gaming machine may be used to allow a player to select one of the displayed limits.作为另一个示例，对于储蓄的量，玩家可以选择他们赢得物的百分比以储蓄。 As another example, the amount of savings, the player can choose a percentage of their winnings to savings.例如，玩家可以选择将赢得物的5%存入银行。 For example, players can choose five percent of the winnings in the bank.作为另一个示例，玩家可以选择对于所有超过一定量的赢取储存赢得物的百分比。 As another example, the player can choose to store the percentage of all winnings exceeding a certain amount of the win.例如，对于超过IOO 个信用的赢取，玩家可以选择该量的25%、 50%或75%存入银行。 For example, for more than IOO credits the win, the player can choose the amount of 25%, 50% or 75% of the bank.所储蓄的量可以转移到与玩家相关的远程账户上。 The amount of savings can be transferred to a remote account associated with the player.可以按照某种方式限制玩家对该账户的访问。 Players can restrict access to the account is in a certain way.例如，在一定时间段，例如一天内，可以阻止玩家提取所储蓄的赢得物。 For example, a certain period of time, such as one day, can prevent the player from the extract savings winnings.在另一个实施方式中，游戏机可以存储并跟踪玩家储蓄的赢得物。 In another embodiment, the gaming machine can store and track a player's winnings savings.在他们玩游戏期间的结尾，游戏机可以打印储蓄赢得物可兌换的结算票单。 In the end they play during the game, the gaming machine may print savings winnings convertible billing ticket.游戏机还可以存储需要将储蓄的赢得物兑换为另一种类型的表示上的信息，该表示为例如但不限于智能卡、RFID使能器件或者手机。 Gaming machine may also be necessary to store saving information on winnings converted to another type of representation that is, for example, but not limited to, smart cards, RFID enabled device or a cell phone.用该表示可兌换的储蓄的赢得物可以是'时间锁定'，这样在设定的期间，例如一天，不可以将该赢得物兑换或用于附加的玩游戏中。 This represents a savings of convertible winnings may be 'locked time', so that during the setting, such as a day, may not redeem the winnings or used for additional game play.在一个实施方式中，当玩家选择在游戏机上强制执行的限制时，可以要求该玩家声明他们所选择的限制。 In one embodiment, when a player chooses to enforce restrictions on the gaming machine, the player may be required to declare to limit their choice.可以用放置在游戏机上的扬声器记录所声明的限制。 You can limit recording speaker placed on the gaming machine declared.所记录的信息可以存储在游戏机上或者在与游戏机连接的服务器上。 The recorded information may be stored on the gaming machine or on a server connected to the gaming machine.所记录的限制声明可以被用于许多目的，例如验证、审核和解决争议。 Limit the recorded statement can be used for many purposes, such as authentication, auditing, and resolve the dispute.例如，为了验证的目的，可以将所记录的限制声明与在前存储和验证的玩家声音样本相比较，以确定所记录的限制声明是否是玩家所作。 For example, for purposes of verification, the limit may be recorded and stored to the preceding statement verified player with sound sample to determine whether the recorded limit statement was made by the player.作为另一个示例，为了解决争议的目的，如果玩家随后争议他们没有设定强制限制，可以重新播放所记录的声明，使玩家确认他们设定了该限制。 As another example, for purposes of dispute resolution, if the player subsequently disputed they did not set mandatory restrictions, you can replay the recorded statement, the players confirmed they set the limit.该限制声明可以与其它生物计量信息一起被记录。 The limit statement may be recorded with other biometric information.例如，游戏机可以包括静态或视频照相机（见图4C)，并可以记录作限制声明的玩家的静态图像或者活动图像。 For example, the gaming machine may include a still or video camera (see Fig. 4C), and can record still images or moving images limitation statements player.该游戏机可以包括重放程序，其允许经营者定位并重放所记录的限制声明。 The gaming machine may include a playback program, which allows operators to locate and play back the recorded statement limit.在另一个示例中，例如通过游戏机上的触摸屏，玩家可以选择其限制， 然后在游戏机上输入签名。 In another example, for example, by a touch screen on the gaming machine, the player can select their limits and then enter a signature on the gaming machine.可以与本发明一起使用的电子签名输入的详细资料描述在共同待决美国申请No.09/946,905中，该申请提交于2001年9月4日， 名称为'Electronic Signature Capability on a Gaming Machine',在此为了所有目的引入其全部内容。 Details of electronic signature input can be used with the present invention are described in co-pending US Application No.09 / 946,905 in, filed on September 4, 2001, entitled 'Electronic Signature Capability on a Gaming Machine', in this introduction for all purposes in its entirety.音频/视频记录特征还可以被应用在游戏机上的其它应用程序中，而并不限于损害最小化。 Audio / video recording features may also be applied in other applications on the gaming machine, but is not limited to minimize damage.通常，它能够被用于在游戏机上所进行的任何交易的验证。 In general, it can be used to validate any transaction carried out on the gaming machine.例如，当玩家将钱从游戏机的外部账户转移到游戏机上时。 For example, when the player will transfer money from accounts outside the gaming machine when the gaming machines.可以要求该玩家口头确认其意图，并可以记录他们声明的具有视频和声音的活动图像。 The players may be required to verbally confirm their intention, and can record moving images with video and sound of their declaration.在另一个实施方式中，游戏机可以包括记录在玩游戏的特定情况下的活动图像的逻辑， 例如当玩家赢取大额累积奖金时。 In another embodiment, the gaming machine may include logic in the moving image at a specific case of game play records, for example, when the player when the jackpot win large.该视频可以被用于确定累积奖金的获得者是符合条件的（即，不是未成年玩家）或者为了娱乐的目的。 The video can be used to determine the winner of the jackpot is qualified (ie, not a minor player) or for entertainment purposes.例如，玩家的小视频剪辑能够被发送到玩家的图像手机或者电子邮箱账户中。 For example, the player's small video clips can be sent to the player's image cell phone or email account.该玩家随后能够重放该视频剪辑以回忆起该事情并将其展示给朋友。 The player can then play back the video clip to remember the things and show it to a friend.如前所述，在一些实施方式中，玩家可以针对他们所玩游戏选择各种限制。 As previously mentioned, in some embodiments, the player can choose a variety of restrictions on what they play the game.在其它实施方式中，游戏机经营者或者游戏权限可以施加限制。 In other embodiments, the gaming machine operators or gaming authority may impose restrictions.例如，在游戏机数量有限且环境拥挤的游艺场所中，游艺场所可以针对每个玩家能够玩的时间量施加限制。 For example, in a limited number of gaming machines and crowded environment of a casino, the casino may impose restrictions on the amount each player can play for time.在另一个示例中，游戏权限可以将玩家在一定期间的损失限制 In another example, the game player can lose privileges limited to a certain period
到特定量。 To a specific amount.玩家跟踪单元和/或游戏机可以监控参数并执行对跟踪限制所必须的计算。 Player tracking unit and / or the gaming machine may monitor parameters and perform calculations necessary to track limits.例如，当已经设定玩家速度的限制时，游戏机可以计算玩家的速度，艮口， 在特定期间的投注量。 For example, when the player has been set speed limit, the player gaming machine may calculate the rate, Gen mouth, bet amount in a specific period.当达到例如时间限制或投注限制的限制时，游戏机可以采取许多行动或者行动的组合，以劝阻进一步玩游戏。 When the limit is reached, for example, time limits or restrictions betting, gaming machine may take many combinations of action or actions to discourage further play the game.作为示例，游戏机可以通过不允许玩家继续玩而结束玩游戏期。 As an example, the game machine can not allow the player to continue playing the game and the end of the play period.在另一个示例中，游戏机可以不允许玩家在一定时间段进行另一个投注。 In another example, the gaming machine may not allow other players to bet a certain period of time.在又一个示例中，游戏玩家可以显示特定的消息，例如'您已经到达您的限制。停止玩！'。 In yet another example, the game player can display a specific message, such as 'You have reached your limit. Stop playing!'.在进一步的示例中，游戏机可以降低游戏机上的声音或者减小图形分辨率，以劝阻进一步玩游戏。 In a further example, the gaming machine can reduce the sound of the gaming machine or decrease the graphics resolution to discourage further game play.在还一个示例中，游戏机可以限制对每个游戏所作的最大投注量。 In yet another example, the gaming machine may limit the maximum bet amount for each game made.在具体实施方式中，每次玩家在游戏机上参加游戏时，可以要求玩家提供识别信息，例如帐号和识别码或者姓名和识别码。 In a particular embodiment, each time the players participating in the game on the gaming machine, a player may be required to provide identification information, such as account numbers and identifiers or names and identifiers.游戏机可以联系具有该信息的中央服务器。 The gaming machine may contact the central server of that information.该中央服务器可以跟踪玩家在多个游戏机上玩游戏，例如所玩的时间和所花费的量。 The central server can track a player to play games on multiple consoles, such as the playing time and the amount spent.中央服务器可以保持跟踪由游艺场所、游戏权限、玩家或其结合所设定的损害最小化限制。 The central server can keep track of a casino, gaming authority, or a combination of players set to minimize damage limitation.当超过所设定的限制时，中央服务器可以向游戏机发出消息和/或命令，指出已经超过限制。 When the set limit is exceeded, the central server can send messages and / or commands to a game console, pointed out it has exceeded the limit.在一种情况下，该消息可以包含显示已经超过限制的信息，并且来自例如主游戏控制器的游戏机上的逻辑器件或者在游戏跟踪单元上的逻辑器件的该信息确定正确的响应。 In one case, the message may include a display of the information has exceeded the limit, and the information from the gaming machine such as a logic device on the master gaming controller or a logic device on the gaming tracking unit to determine the correct response.在另一个实施方式中，中央服务器可以将命令直接发送到游戏机，该命令表示游戏机将执行的响应。 In another embodiment, the central server may send a command directly to the gaming machine, the gaming machine in response to the command to be executed represents.例如，中央服务器能够命令游戏机终止玩游戏，并显示表示超过什么限制以及什么时间能够重新开始玩游戏的消息，或者中央服务器仅能够命令游戏机显示消息，例如'您已经输了'X'美元。'。 For example, the central server can terminate the command consoles to play games and display represent more than what restrictions and what time the message can resume playing games, or only able to command a central server consoles display messages such as 'You have lost the' X 'dollars .. '在还一个实施方式中，非现金系统可以为了损害最小化的目的而被用于限制玩家的花费。 In a further embodiment, the cashless system for the purpose of minimizing the damage is used to limit the cost of the player.在这种情形下，游戏机可以仅接受非现金表示，例如用于玩游戏的打印的票单凭证。 In this case, the gaming machine can only accept non-cash means, for example print ticket vouchers for playing the game of.在他们开始玩游戏之前，玩家可以要求识别他们自己， 然后购买具有低于所设限制，例如500美金的一定价值的非现金表示。 Before they start playing the game, players can ask them to identify themselves, then have to buy less than the set limit, such as $ 500 value of certain non-cash representation.每次玩家在游戏机上玩游戏时，他们向游戏机提供他们的非现金表示。 Every time a player plays a game on the gaming machine, they offer their consoles to represent non-cash.他们在游戏机上结束时，用他们可用的信用更新他们的非现金表示（例如，智能卡），可以包括所赢的量和所输的量，或者用该信息产生新的非现金表示（例如，打印票证）。 At the end of the game consoles they use the credit available to them to update their non-cash representation (eg, smart cards), may include the amount won and the amount of output, or generate new non-cash with this information indicates (eg, print ticket).
在初始购买数量开始的链中产生的非现金表示交易可能在特定的时间周期内有效，例如一天。 Non-cash generated in the chain began initial purchase amount of said transaction may be effective in a specific time period, such as one day.之后玩家被迫结算非现金表示。 After the players were forced to represent non-cash settlement.例如，玩家可以开始购买500美元的打印的票单凭证的非现金表示，500美元是在24小时中可以花费的最大数量。 For example, players can start buying a ticket voucher printed $ 500 of non-cash, said $ 50 is the maximum number over 24 hours can be spent.打印的票单凭证可以编码有发行的时间/日期和剩余时间。 Print ticket vouchers may be encoded with release time / date and time remaining.该信息可以编码为玩家可读的格式。 This information may be encoded into a format readable by the player.下面，玩家可以在游戏机上使用该表示进行游戏同时赢取$200并且收到新打印的$700的凭证。 Here, players can use the game on a console represents the same time to win $ 200 and receive a $ 700 voucher new print.新打印的凭证可以编码有第一个凭证发行的时间，艮卩， 开始交易的线程（thread)的时间和该线程剩余的时间。 Newly printed voucher may be encoded with a certificate issued by the first time, Gen Jie, thread (thread) of the start of trading time and the time remaining thread.下面，玩家可以在桌上游戏使用$700的凭证。 Here, players can use the vouchers at $ 700 table games.在玩游戏之后，可以发行新的$200的凭证。 After playing the game, you can issue a new certificate of $ 200.再次， 该打印的$200的凭证可以编码有第一个凭证发行的时间和剩余的时间。 Again, $ 200 voucher that can be printed and encoded with time remaining time of the first issuance of a certificate.下面， 玩家可以在剩余的时间期间不使用打印的S200凭证。 Here, players can not use the S200 voucher printed during the time remaining.当玩家试图在游戏机上使用凭证玩游戏时，游戏机可以不接收该凭证但是可以表示打印的凭证可以兌换为现金。 When a player tries to use the credentials to play games on consoles, game consoles may not receive the documents but may represent printable voucher can be redeemed for cash.然后玩家可以结算凭证并且购买新打印的具有价值的凭证并且再次开始这个过程。 Players can then settlement documents and proof of purchase valuable new print and begin the process again.2003年4月2日提交的申请号为10/406,911， Rowe的发明名称为'Cashless Transaction Clearinghouse'的共同待审美国专利申请中，说明了本发明可以使用的非现金系统的详细情况，在此结合其全部内容作为参考。 April 2003 Application No. 2 filed 10 / 406,911, Rowe's invention named 'Cashless Transaction Clearinghouse' co-pending US patent application describes the details of the non-cash system of the present invention can be used in this in its entirety by reference.在本发明的一个实施方式中，玩家可以选择用于在损害最小化界面上显示的某一个消息或多个消息。 In one embodiment of the present invention, the player can select one message displayed on the interface or minimize damage more messages.在一个实施方式中，当选择消息按钮273时，可以显示可用的消息和/或颁布的消息的列表。 In one embodiment, the selected message when a button 273, the list of available message may be displayed and / or issued messages.此外，当选择消息按钮273时， 可以显示字母数字界面（例如，图3E中的266)。 Further, when the selection button 273 when a message may be displayed alphanumeric screen (e.g., in FIG. 3E 266).在另一实施方式中，玩家使用扩音器可以记录以后可以重放的语音消息。 In another embodiment, the player using a microphone may be recorded after the reproduced voice message.在特定的实施方式中，玩家可以选择显示表示在特定时间间隔或随即时间间隔损失的数量的消息。 In a particular embodiment, the player may choose to display represents a particular time interval or time intervals immediately lost message number.显示的损失的数量可以在产生消息时计算。 Number of loss can be calculated when the display message is generated.时间间隔可以通过按钮214输入。 Time interval can be input by the button 214.在另一个示例中，当玩家已经损失一定量时或每次损失一定量时显示损失的量。 In another example, the amount of loss of the display when a player has lost a certain amount or each time a certain amount of loss.例如，每次玩家已经损失$100，可以显示告诉你经过'x'时间周期已经损失$100的消息，其中'x '时间周期是游戏机的器件跟踪损失$100所花费的时间。 For example, every time a player has lost $ 100, you can display tell you after 'x' period of time has lost $ 100 messages, where 'x' is a time period of game consoles tracking devices lost time $ 100 spent.当然，本发明不局限于跟踪美元的量而是本发明也可以跟踪其它货币的量。 Of course, the present invention is not limited to tracking the amount of dollars but the present invention can also track the amount of other currencies.此外，根据游戏机的位置和/或玩家的喜好， 消息可以是其它语言。 Further, the gaming machine according to the position and / or the player's preferences, the message may be in other languages.在另一个实施方式中，玩家可以选择显示例如'我正在娱乐'或者'你 In another embodiment, the player can choose to display such as 'I'm Entertainment' or 'you
已经玩了5个小时，休息一会吧.'的消息。在另一个示例中，当玩家的游戏速度超过特定的量，玩家可以选择显示例如'你正在玩得太快了，慢点'的消息。如前所述，游戏机可以配置为显示是否玩家已经选择该消息的某些消息。 这些消息可以由该游戏机所处的游戏权限颁布。这些消息可以在显示201或者游戏机上的其它显示上显示。凸轮按钮276可以用于选择可以在游戏机上显示的不同的视频凸轮，例如显示201。例如，玩家可以选择来自游艺场所外部的视频反馈。从外部提供的提示可以通过允许玩家保持更好的跟踪时间而帮助玩家限制他们玩游戏。在另一个示例中，玩家可以简单地对外部天气关于是否下雨感兴趣。作为另一个示例，损害最小化界面280可以配置为在某些时间显示例如玩家的配偶、家庭或亲戚的图片的静态图像。计量按钮272可以选择不同的 Have been playing five hours, take a break now. 'Message. In another example, when the player of the game speed exceeds a certain amount, the player can choose to display such as' You're too fast play, slow points ' message. as previously described, the gaming machine may be configured to display certain messages whether the player has selected the message. these messages can be enacted by the gaming machine in which the permission. these messages may be displayed on the display 201 or other gaming machine on the display. the cam button 276 may be used to select different video cams that may be displayed on the gaming machine, such as a display 201. for example, the player may select the video feedback from outside the casino. tips from the outside may be maintained by allowing players to better tracking to help players limit their time playing games. in another example, the player can simply external weather rain on whether interest. as another example, damage is minimized interface 280 can be configured to display, for example at certain times players spouse, still images or pictures of family relatives. metering button 272 may select a different量器和用于显示计量器的格式。计量器典型地涉及玩家玩游戏的多方面。例如，投注的数量、玩游戏的时间量、每次的投注量、每个游戏投注的平均量、赢的量、输的量、每次输的量、每次赢的量、赢取量对投注量的比率、预定的/消费的饮料数目、所玩游戏的数目、每次游戏贏的量或输的量等等。在特定实施方式中，这些计量可以绘制成时间的函数或所玩游戏的函数。格式（参见图3G的一些示例）可以是表、图和颜色的结合，例如饼图、条形图等。玩家可以使用预览按钮271来预览任何他们已经设置或施加的限制。此外，可以使用预览按钮271来预览他们已经配置的损害最小化界面280的显示(见图3G)。之后，玩家已经完成他们的选择，玩家可以使用输入按钮210来完成配置。在一个实施方式中，可以为玩家保存损害最小化界面的配置。例如，可以在远程 Gauge and the gauge used to display format. Meter typically involve many players play the game, for example, the number of bets, an amount of time playing the game, the amount of each wager, the average amount bet per game, win amount, the amount of output, the amount of each transmission, the amount of each win, the ratio of the amount of winning bet amount, a predetermined number of drinks / consumption, the number of games played, an amount won or lost per game amount, etc. in a particular embodiment, the measurement can be plotted as a function of time or function of the game being played. format (see FIG. 3G some examples) may be a combination of tables, graphs, and color, for example, a pie chart, bar after the chart, etc. player may use the preview button 271 to preview any restrictions they have been provided or applied. Further, the preview button 271 may be used to preview the damage they have been configured to minimize the interface display 280 (see FIG. 3G)., the player has completed their selections, the player may use input button 210 to complete the configuration. in one embodiment, the configuration can be saved to minimize damage to the player interface. for example, in a remote务器上保存他们的个人配置到例如玩家跟踪帐户的一个帐户。在另一个示例中，可以在向玩家发行的打印的票单上编码他们的个人配置。玩家可以将该票单插入到其它游戏机以用他们的个人配置来重新配置游戏机。在另一个实施方式中，他们的个人配置信息可以下载到智能卡片、手机、PDA、手持式计算机等用于存储并且之后用与存储该信息的设备兼容的接口上载到游戏机。图3G中，示出了配置的损害最小化界面280的示例。该玩家跟踪单元可 Their task is to save the configuration to a personal account such as player tracking account. In another example, the configuration can be encoded on their personal ticket issued to a player printed. Players can insert the ticket into other games machine to use their personal profiles to reconfigure the gaming machines. in another embodiment, the configuration of their personal information can be downloaded to a smart card, mobile phone, PDA, handheld computer for storage and later use and storage of this information device compatible interface to upload the game machine. FIG. 3G shows a configuration to minimize damage exemplary interface 280. the player tracking unit may
以配置为在它的显示屏201 (见图4A—4C)上显示界面280。 Configured to display interface 280 on its display screen 201 (see FIG. 4A-4C).一般来说，在位于游戏机上或相邻游戏机的任何视频显示上可以产生该界面280。 In general, the interface 280 may be generated on any video display located on the gaming machine or adjacent the gaming machine.在一个实施方式中（见图4C)，可以在由玩家携带的例如PDA或手机的手持式器件上产生界面280 。 (See FIG. 4C), the interface 280 may be generated in the device such as a handheld PDA or cell phone carried by the player in one embodiment.图3G所示的界面280提供了3种计量器：1)游戏速度计量器286、剩余时间计量器284和损失计量器285。 Interface shown in FIG. 3G 280 provides three meter: 1) game speed meter 286, time remaining meter 284 and a loss meter 285.本发明不局限于3种计量器显示的信息。 The present invention is not limited to the three types of information displayed by the meter.可以在界面280上显示一个或多个计量器或者不显示计量器。 You may display one or more of the interface meter in the meter display 280 or not.逻辑器件可以调整计量器的大小来适应特定的显示区域。 Logic device may adjust the size of the meter to adapt a particular display area.如果显示区域太小了不能适应计量器需要的数目，则可以调整计量器的格式，例如使用仅文本代替图形、或游戏机可以通过计量器循环，目卩，每一个计量器显示有限的时间，然后显示下一个。 If the area is too small can not meet the number of meter required, you can adjust the format of the meter, for example, text-only instead of graphics, or the gaming machine may cycle through the meter, mesh Jie each meter display for a limited time, and a display.游戏速度计量器286是条形格式。 Game speed is 286 meter strip format.条形的长度用来显示游戏的速度，其显示为每分钟50美分。 Length of the bar to display the speed of the game, which is shown as 50 cents per minute.游戏的速度可以随着时间改变并且当玩家的游戏速长增加或减少时可以更新条形图。 The speed of the game may change over time and when the player's long game speed increase or decrease can be updated bar chart.在一个实施方式种，玩家可以为游戏速度设置极限并且当玩家超过他们的游戏速度时，游戏速度计量器可以闪烁和/或改变颜色并且此外可以发出警告的声音。 In one embodiment kind of way, the player can set the speed limit for the game and when a player exceeds their game speed, game speed meter can blink and / or change in color and in addition may be a warning sound.在另一个实施方式种，游戏机上的逻辑器件可以限制玩家的最大赌注来减少他们的游戏速度。 In another embodiment of the kind of logic devices on the gaming machine you can limit the maximum bet players to reduce their speed game.剩余时间计量器284表示剩余数据的饼图，其中当剩余时间接近零时饼的部分变小。 284 represents a time remaining meter pie remaining data, wherein when the remaining portion of the time close to zero cake becomes small.玩家可以使用配置界面270配置时间限制并且计量器284可以基于该限制反映剩余时间。 Players can use the configuration interface 270 is configured time limit and the meter 284 may reflect the time remaining based upon the limit.显示区域216中显示了消息'5分钟后离开'。 Display region 216 displays a message that 'five minutes after leaving.'该消息可以基于已经设置的时间限制。 The message may be based on a time limit has been set.它可以周期性闪烁，并且以不同的间隔闪烁， 例如l/2小时、15分钟、5分钟、和1分钟。 It can periodically blink, and blink at different intervals, for example, l / 2 hours and 15 minutes, 5 minutes, and 1 minute.损失计量器285使用温度计图表示玩家已经损失的数量。 Loss meter 285 using a thermometer figure shows the number of players has been lost.该温度计可以包括用于使玩家确定他们已经损失的数量的标记或表示限制的标记。 The thermometer may include the loss of players to make sure they have the number of mark or a mark indicating restrictions.当损失减少或增加时，温度计中的填充物可以上升和下降并且当接近损失限制时改变颜色。 When a decrease or increase losses, thermometer filler can be raised and lowered and changes color when the proximity limit losses.再次，损失计量器可以结合文本消息，例如'接近损失限制'。 Again, loss of the meter may incorporate a text message, such as 'proximity limit losses.'虽然图3G示出了特定的计量器图，应该理解任何适当的图形结构可以用于传达计量信息。 While FIG. 3G shows the meter of FIG particular, it should be appreciated that any suitable pattern may be used to convey the metering information structure.在某些实现中，玩家可以使用显示格式按钮282改变显示的计量器的格式。 In some implementations, the player can use the format of the meter display format button 282 to change the display.例如，饼图计量器284可以改变为简单的文本输出。 For example, a pie chart meter 284 may be changed to a simple text output.作为另一个示例，可以在一个线性图中绘制例如获胜的数量或损失的数量不同的变量对时间的图。 As another example, for example, a different number of variables drawn winning number or loss versus time is linear in a drawing.显示格式按钮282也可以用于在任一时间改变显示的计量器信息和 The display format button 282 may be used to change the display at any one time measurement information and
显示的计量器的数量。 The number of gauge display.例如，玩家可以选择显示5个计量器但是一次只有一个并且界面可以循环每个计量器。 For example, the player may choose to display five but only one meter and the meter interface may each cycle.菜单按钮可以用于重新配置界面并且可以提供关于图3F所示的损害最小化界面的访问。 Menu button may be used to reconfigure the interface and may provide access for damage is minimized shown in FIG. 3F interface.
显示区域283提供关于图3F所示的一个凸轮的示例。 283 provides an example of a display region with respect to the cam shown in FIG. 3F.在该示例中，显示天气凸轮。 In this example, the display weather cam.天气凸轮283显示游艺场所外部的天气和本地天气预报。 Weather cam 283 is displayed outside of the casino weather and local weather forecasts.在区域283中，显示3天的天气预报。 In the region 283, a weather forecast for 3 days.
图3H中，示出了用于显示不同累积奖金的界面290。 Figure 3H shows a different jackpots for display interface 290.界面290可以配置为允许显示多个不IWMR^-^^'^4^fr方式中，界面可以适合于允许玩家、 游戏机操作者、或二者都选择不同累积奖金用于显示。为了奖励的目的，游戏机操作者可以选择去选择不同的累积奖金用于显示。当界面290已经由玩家配置，玩家的选择可以存储在由玩家携带的例如手机、PDA、智能卡片等的器件中或者可以存储在远程帐户中。存储的选择信息可以用于在玩家可以使用的不同游戏机上重新配置界面290。 Interface 290 may not be configured to allow a plurality of display IWMR ^ -. ^^ '^ 4 ^ fr embodiment, the interface may be adapted to allow a player, the gaming machine operator or both to select different jackpots for display to the reward object, the gaming machine operator may choose to select different jackpots for display. when the interface 290 has been configured by a player, the player's choice may be stored in the device carried by the player such as mobile phones, PDA, smart card, or the like may be stored in the remote account. select the stored information can be used to reconfigure the interface 290 on a different console gamers can use.
信息按钮232可以用于显示可以显示的累积奖金的列表（文本和/或图形）-在一个实施方式中，可以在界面上显示不同的累进累积奖金-在位于游艺场所中的各种游戏机上可以具有或者不具有累进累积奖金。 Jackpot information button 232 may be displayed for displaying a list (text and / or graphics) - In one embodiment, the display may be different progressive jackpot at the interface - can be positioned in a variety of gaming machines in the casino with or without a progressive jackpot.在图3H中，已经选择了两种累进累积奖金用于显示，示出了MegabucksTM和IGT的（Reno， NV) Wheel of Fortune Slots™ 。 In FIG 3H, the two have been selected for displaying the progressive jackpot, and shows MegabucksTM the IGT (Reno, NV) Wheel of Fortune Slots ™.在图形表示的各累进累积奖金中，示出了可以在游戏机上连续更新的累积奖金数量。 In each progressive jackpot in the graphical representation, illustrating the cumulative amount of money may be continuously updated on the gaming machine.可以从与游戏机的通信的远程服务器提供对游戏机的更新。 It may provide updates to the game console from gaming machines communicate with a remote server.
在一个实施方式中，游戏机可以适用于提供游艺场所的地图，使得玩家定位具有累进累积奖金的游戏机。 In one embodiment, the gaming machine can be adapted to provide casino map, making the positioning of the players have a progressive jackpot gaming machines.例如，当在触摸屏上选择'Megabucks™' 图形，在显示201上可以显示表示当前游戏机的位置、游艺场所上的各种游戏机的位置和其它陆标的位置，以及提供已经选择的累进累积奖金的游戏机的位置的地图。 For example, when you select 'Megabucks ™' graphics on the touch screen on the display 201 can display indicates the current position of the gaming machines, gaming machines on the location of the various entertainment venues and other landmarks location, and has been selected to provide a progressive jackpot map location of gaming machines.当前游戏机的位置和提供选择的累积奖金的游戏机的位置在地图上可以提高亮度。 The current position of gaming machines and gaming machines offer jackpots of choice on the map to increase the brightness.此外，在当前位置和理想的位置（提供选择的累进累积奖金的位置）之间可以划线。 Further, the current position and the ideal position of the scribe line may be (a position providing the selected progressive jackpot).在一个实施方式中游戏机可以适合于为玩家打印出地图。 In one embodiment, the gaming machine can be adapted for the players to print out the map.
前面界面中说明的地图服务不需要局限于定位提供累进累积奖金的游戏机。 Interface described in the previous map service need not be limited positioned to provide a progressive jackpot gaming machines.在一个实施方式中，玩家可以从游艺场所联合体中的各种位置选择并且游戏机可以用于提供该位置的地图和/或方向。 In one embodiment, the player may choose from a variety of locations in the casino and gaming machine consortium may be used to map and / or directions to provide the location.图31中示出了地图界面295的示例。 FIG 31 shows an example of a map interface 295.回到图3H，在本发明的一个实施方式中，界面290可以适合于显示为玩家保持的个人的累积奖金。 Returning to Figure 3H, in one embodiment of the invention, the interface 290 may be adapted to display personal jackpots maintained for the player.图中示出了两个个人的累积奖金292和293。 Figure shows two personal jackpots 292 and 293.在游戏业中，玩家在游艺场所的花费的百分比通常以优惠券（优惠奖励）的形式奖励给玩家。 In the game industry, the percentage spent in the casino players are usually reward in the form of coupons (the incentives) to the player.例如，如果玩家花费足够，可能给玩家奖励免费的一餐或旅馆免费一晚住宿的优惠券。 For example, if a player spend enough, it may be a free night's stay for free coupons to reward the player for a meal or hotel.在结合个人累积奖金的实施方式中，玩家的花费的百分比进入仅可以由玩家赢取的个人累积奖金的积累。 In an embodiment of a combination of personal jackpot, the percentage of players it takes to enter the individual can only be won by a player accumulated accumulated bonus.累积奖金的积累可以基于玩家在各种游戏活动的花费，例如游戏机、桌上游戏和体育投注，以及非游戏相关的活动，例如在指定商场购物、在指定饭馆吃饭、选择指定价值的旅馆房间或利用其它游艺场所/旅馆服务。 Accumulated jackpot players can spend in various games based on such gaming machines, table games and sports betting, and non-game-related activities, such as shopping malls specified, eat at designated restaurants, select the specified value hotel room or take advantage of other casino / hotel service.积累速率可以由活动不同而变化并且可以根据花费的数量变化。 Accumulation rate can vary by the different activities and may vary according to the number it takes.例如， 各种活动的积累速率最初可以更快以快速建立个人累积奖金，292和293。 For example, the rate of accumulation of various activities initially faster to quickly create a personal jackpots, 292 and 293.然后， 一旦个人累积奖金达到某一级别，积累速率可以降低。 Then, once the individual jackpot reaches a certain level, the accumulation rate can be reduced.然后，对于更高的花费数量，积累速率可以增加。 Then, for the number of higher spending, accumulation rate can be increased.不像其它对于特定服务有效的优惠奖励，例如在特定餐馆的晚餐，累积奖金，292和293可以作为现金奖励。 Unlike other services for a particular active offer incentives, such as dinner at a particular restaurant, Jackpot, 292 and 293 can be used as a cash reward.玩家可以以他们选择的方式使用该现金。 Players can choose the way they use the cash.在一个实施方式中，个人累积奖金292和293的一部分或全部可以作为对各种活动或服务有效但是不能直接兌现现金的票据奖励。 In one embodiment, individual jackpots and 292 can be used as part or all of the activities or services but not directly effective cash cash reward of 293 bills.例如，该票据可以对于提高游戏机的信用有效，其中玩家可以使用提高的信用用于玩游戏并且可以从游戏收集任何获胜的结果，但是不能把提高的信用转换成现金。 For example, the bill can be effective in improving the credit game consoles, where players can use to improve the credit for playing the game and the result can collect any wins from the game, but can not be converted into cash to improve credit.作为另一个示例， 该票据可以对玩例如二H^—点（blackjack)的桌上游戏有效。 As another example, the instrument can play such as di H ^ - point (Blackjack) valid table games.在另一个示例中， 该票据可以应用于在游艺场所/旅馆可以获得的服务，例如在餐馆的一餐或温泉的服务。 In another example, the ticket can be applied in a casino / hotel services available, such as a meal or spa service at the restaurant.票据或现金奖励可以直接在游戏机进行，或者计入玩家的帐户。 Instruments or cash prizes in gaming machines may directly or included in the player's account.例如， 可以在游戏机打印可以兌换现金或者可以兌换为票据的票单凭证。 For example, you can print can be exchanged for cash at the gaming machine or can be exchanged for a ticket voucher bill.作为另一个示例，现金或票据量的奖励可以计入由玩家携带的例如智能卡片、电话或手持计算机的非现金表示。 As another example, the amount of cash or notes can be included in the award by the players carry non-cash smart card, phone or handheld computer means, for example.图3H中，两个个人累积奖金可以表示从不同来源积累的累积奖金。 FIG 3H, the two personal jackpots may represent the accumulation of the jackpot from different sources.例如， 累积奖金292可以从玩游戏活动积累而累积奖金293可以从非游戏活动积累。 For example, the jackpot 292 293 jackpot can be accumulated from non-gaming activities from playing games to accumulate.在另一个示例中，两个累积奖金292和293可以表示现金值相对票据值。 In another example, the two jackpots 292 and 293 may represent a cash value corresponding ticket value.例如， 当玩家赢取个人累积奖金，玩家可以选择现金累积奖金值292或票据累积奖金值293。 For example, when the player winning individual jackpot, players can choose a cash jackpot value 292 or 293 bills jackpot value.在一个实施方式中，可以从与一组玩家相关的活动累积个人累积奖金。 In one embodiment, can accumulate personal Jackpot from activities associated with a set of players.例如，玩家可能希望加入他们的家庭成员和/或朋友来形成累积奖金组。 For example, a player might want to join their family members and / or friends to form a group jackpot.作为另一个示例，商业会议或公约的参加者可以注册成组作为他们为会议注册的一部分。 As another example, participants in business meetings or conventions can be registered in groups as part of their registration for the conference.为了加入该组，每个成员必须以某种方式注册来表示他们愿意加入该组。 To join the group, each member must be registered in some way expressed their willingness to join the group.在该实施方式中，只有组的注册成员有资格从组累积奖金池获得奖励。 In this embodiment, only registered members of the group are eligible for jackpot pool from the group rewarded.可以在游戏机、远程器件或其组合做出从组累积奖金奖励的决定。 Decision can be made from the group jackpot award in the game machine, the remote device or combinations thereof.当玩家在游戏机提供身份信息，可以做出是否玩家有资格赢得任何组累积奖金的决定。 When the players in the game machine identity information, you can decide whether a player eligible to win any group jackpot.玩家有资格赢得的组累积奖金可以在累积奖金界面上显示。 Players are eligible to win the jackpot of the group can be displayed on the jackpot interface.在一个实施方式中，玩家可以有资格加入一个或多个提供组累积奖金的组并且玩家有资格加入的组可以在累积奖金界面上显示。 In one embodiment, the player may be eligible to join the group jackpot one or more groups providing group and the player has qualified to join may be displayed on the jackpot interface.累积奖金界面可以通过注册过程允许玩家加入组。 Jackpot interface allows players to join the group through the registration process.在一个实施方式中，可能需要玩家付费来加入组。 In one embodiment, a player may be required to pay to join the group.在另一实施方式中，玩家可以作为在游戏机一事件发生的结果而自动注册到组中。 In another embodiment, the player can be a game machine as a result of events occurring automatically registered to the group.例如，当玩家在游戏机玩机会游戏时发生特定结果.玩家可以被注册为特定组累积奖金。 For example, a particular result occurred when the players play the game of chance in a gaming machine. Jackpot players can be registered for a particular group.例如玩家跟踪服务器的远程器件可以监视一个组对组累积奖金的贡献并且更新累积奖金总和。 Such as remote player tracking server device can monitor a group of cumulative set bonuses and contributions to update the cumulative sum of the prize money.当组的成员在游戏机玩游戏，可以在游戏机通过累积奖金界面显示组累积奖金总和。 When members of the group to play the game in the gaming machine, you can accumulate bonus game machine interface displays the cumulative sum of the bonus group.此外，当组的一个成员赢得奖励，可以向组中的其他成员通知赢得奖励的人的身份。 In addition, when a member of the group to win the award, may notify the other members of the group identity of the person to win the award.例如，当Joe和Bob在一个组中，并且Joe赢得了组累积奖金的一部分，Bob可以收到例如'Joe从组累积奖金中赢得了X美元的奖励'的消息。 For example, when Joe and Bob in one group, and Joe won the group accumulated part of the bonus, Bob may receive a message such as 'Joe from the group won a jackpot prize of US $ X' in.2000年9月19日提交的申请号为09/655,526，LeMay 等人的发明名称为'Play Per View'的美国专利申请中，说明了可以用于本发明的用于确定玩家在游戏机的位置的详细情况，在此结合其全部内容作为参考。 US Patent Application No. 2000, September 19 filed 09 / 655,526, LeMay, et al entitled 'Play Per View', a description of the location of the present invention can be used for determining the players in the gaming machine details, incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.个人累积奖金可以通过与例如玩家跟踪服务器的远程服务器的通信保持、更新和访问，也可以在由玩家携带的例如智能卡片、手机、PDA等器件保持。 Personal jackpot can be kept in the smart card carried by the player, cell phone, PDA and other devices, such as, for example, communication with a remote server via the player tracking server to maintain, update and access.例如，有资格的交易可以提交到远程服务器。 For example, eligible transactions can be submitted to a remote server.然后远程服务器可以更新累积奖金并且有规律地发送显示201上显示的更新。 The remote server may then update the jackpot and regularly send updates the display on the display 201.作为另一个示例，累积奖金数量可以存储在由玩家携带的智能卡片。 As another example, the cumulative number of bonus can be stored on a smart card carried by the player.初始的累积奖金可以存储在智能卡 The initial jackpot can be stored on a smart card
片上并且在游戏机的开始下载到游戏机。 The on-chip and downloaded to consoles in the beginning of game consoles.然后，游戏机上的逻辑器件可以在玩游戏期间在游戏机上更新累积奖金。 Then, logic devices on a game console can play games on consoles during the update jackpot.2000年11月22日提交的申请号为09/718,974， Rowe的发明名称为'EZ Pay™ Smart Card and Ticket System'的共同待决的美国专利申请中，说明了使用便携式器件用于提供个人累积奖金的详细情况，在此结合其全部内容作为参考。 Application No. 2000, November 22 filed 09 / 718,974, Rowe's invention named 'EZ Pay ™ Smart Card and Ticket System' in co-pending US patent application, a description of the use of portable devices for personal accumulation Details of bonuses, incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
在另一个示例中，当在没有联系远程服务器的地方发生交易时，某些交易可以存储在由玩家携带的器件上，然后当由玩家携带的器件联系到与远程服务器通信的器件时上载到远程服务器。 In another example, when the transaction occurs in the place where no contact a remote server, certain transactions may be stored on the device carried by the player and then uploaded to a remote device when communicating with a remote server when the carried device by the player to contact server.然后远程服务器可以接收交易的记录， 使之有效，然后更新个人累积奖金。 The remote server can receive a record of the transaction, to be effective, then update your jackpot.例如，玩家可以在没有与远程服务器联系的商店购买一个项目。 For example, players can buy one item in the store no connection with the remote server.该交易的记录可以存储在由玩家携带的手机中。 The transaction record can be stored in the player carrying the phone.之后， 玩家可以在连接到远程服务器的游戏机上进行游戏。 After that, players can play games on the connection to the remote server console.在玩游戏期间，存储在手机上的交易记录可以通过游戏机上载到远程服务器并且个人累积奖金292和293可以通过与远程服务器通信更新来反映上载的交易。 During game play, transaction records stored on the phone can be uploaded to a remote server via game consoles and personal Jackpot 292 and 293 can communicate with a remote server updated to reflect the transaction upload.
个人累积奖金可以由涉及游戏或其它活动的事件触发。 Personal jackpot can be triggered by events involving games or other activities.在一个实施方式中，可以给累积奖金指定赢取个人累积奖金的固定概率并且玩家每次进行被认可的活动时，可以产生随机数并且与可以包括获胜概率的标准比较，来确定是否玩家已经赢得累积奖金。 In one embodiment, it is possible to specify individual jackpot jackpot fixed probability to win and the player each time approved activities, it can generate a random number and compared to the standard may include probability of winning, to determine whether the player has won jackpot.例如，被认可的活动可以包括在游戏机玩的每个游戏、在商店的购买超过某一数量、在饭店购买超过某一设定数量、在旅馆结帐等。 For example, the approved activities can be included in each game consoles to play, to buy in the store exceeds a certain amount, at the hotel to buy more than a set number, checkout at hotels, etc.在另一个实施方式中，可以由游戏机上发生的特定事件触发赢取个人累积奖金，例如当符号的特定组合出现在游戏机上。 In another embodiment, can be triggered by specific events that occur on individual gaming machines to win the jackpot, for example, when a particular combination of symbols appear on the console.玩家是否已经赢取他们的个人累积奖金的决定可以独立于在游戏机上玩机会游戏的结果并且由此的支出可以是个人累积奖金的一部分或全部累积奖金。 Determine whether the player has to win their personal jackpot can be independent of the result of playing a game of chance on the gaming machine and thus spending may be an individual jackpot of some or all of the jackpot.
赢取的概率可以随着时间改变。 The probability of winning may change over time.例如，当个人累积奖金292和293的大小增加，赢取累积奖金之一的概率可能增加。 For example, when the probability of a person and increase the size of the jackpot 292 293, to win one jackpot may increase.这样，在该示例中，玩家更可能赢取较大的累积奖金而不太可能赢取较小的累积奖金。 Thus, in this example, the player is more likely to win large jackpots and not likely to win smaller jackpots.例如，可以选择赢取累积奖金292和293的概率从而赢取累积奖金293的概率要比赢取累积奖金292 的概率更大。 For example, you can select the probability of winning the jackpot of 292 and 293 so that the probability of winning the jackpot win a greater probability than 293 Jackpot 292.在一个实施方式中，赢取累积奖金的概率可以设置为零直到累积奖金的数量达到一定值。 In one embodiment, the probability of winning jackpot may be set to zero until the amount of the jackpot reaches a certain value.
关于图3H说明，玩家希望了解可以获得某些分级累积奖金的游戏机的位置。 About 3H explanatory diagram, players want to know can get some hierarchical position jackpot gaming machines.图3I中，示出了提供玩家感兴趣的位置的地图的方位界面550 (direction interface)。 FIG. 3I, the location of interest is shown to provide orientation of the map the player interface 550 (direction interface).方位可以是下述形式：地图、文本（例如，右转、直行等）、地图和文本的组合、可以从游戏机发出的语音方位，或提供引导玩家从他们当前位置到达感兴趣的位置的足够信息的任何其它信息格式。 Position may be in the form: maps, text (for example, turn right, go straight, etc.), a combination of maps and text, voice orientation can be issued from the gaming machine, or provide the location of interest to guide the players arrive from their current position of sufficient any other information format information.方位可以在游戏机上查看和/或以某种方式输出给玩家，例如下载到由玩家携带的器件或通过游戏机上的打印机打印输出方位。 Position can be viewed on the gaming machine and / or output to the player in some way, such as downloading to the device carried by a player or printed by a printer on the consoles output orientation.界面550可以包括多个允许玩家从根据主题分类的位置列表中选择的按钮。 Interface 550 may comprise a plurality of buttons allow a player from a list of subject classification according to the position selected.例如，按钮552、 554、 556、和560允许在显示201上产生针对不同类型的游戏机、桌上游戏、运动预定、商店、吃饭和其他服务（例如，体育馆、温泉、游泳池、旅馆结帐、旅游/娱乐服务、服务人员等）的位置。 For example, a button 552, 554, 556, and 560 allows the production of different types of gaming machines, table games, sports book, shop, meals and other services (eg, gym, spa, swimming pool, hotel checkout on the display 201, location tourism / entertainment services, service personnel, etc.).在该实施方式中，术语'位置'用于表示玩家可以找到玩家感兴趣的服务或活动的地方。 In this embodiment, the term 'position' is used to indicate where players can find the services or activities of interest to the players.这个地方可以位于游艺场所内、游艺场所联合体内（例如，游艺场所、餐馆、 旅馆、停车场等)、游艺场所附近的位置（例如，附属的游艺场所、普通吸引人的地方（general attractions)、附近的商店和服务提供者，例如药店）或玩家感兴趣的任何其它位置。 This place may be located within the casino, a casino joint body (for example, a casino, restaurants, hotels, parking lots, etc.), in the vicinity of a casino location (for example, a subsidiary of entertainment venues, ordinary attractive place (general attractions), nearby shops and service providers, such as interest pharmacy) or any other position player.按钮可以导出各种子按钮或菜单。 Button to export the various sub-menus or buttons.例如，当选择了游戏机552按钮，玩家可以从在特定游艺场所可以玩的不同类型的游戏、累进游戏、奖励游戏（例如，Wheel of Fortune™)的列表中选择。 For example, when you select a button 552 game console, players can play from a casino in particular different types of games, progressive games, bonus games (eg, Wheel of Fortune ™) list of options.例如，使用界面，玩家可以定位访问Megabuck™累进游戏的所有游戏机或者附近的游戏机。 For example, user interface, players can locate all gaming machines or gaming machines visit nearby Megabuck ™ progressive games.作为另一个示例，可能的玩家可以定位营业着并且不需要预定的所有的饭馆或提供某一类食物的快餐吧。 As another example, potential players can locate and open the book does not require all fast food restaurants or provide a certain type of food it.一般来说，玩家可以选择感兴趣的一项的多个特征，例如游戏机、游戏器件、桌上游戏、酒吧或餐馆、并且搜索提供那些特征的位置。 In general, the player can select one of a plurality of features of interest, such as gaming machines, gaming devices, table games, bar or restaurant, and those providing location search feature.在一个实施方式中，当玩家已经为位置提供搜索标准但是没有位置满足搜索标准时，游戏机可以显示满足搜索标准中至少一个标准的位置。 In one embodiment, when the player has provided search criteria for the position but no position to meet the search criteria, the gaming machine may display at least meet the search criteria in a standard position.方位界面可以列出各位置满足的标准。 Azimuth interface standard can be listed for each location met.当多个位置满足玩家的搜索标准，界面550可以首先显示附近位置或只有附近位置。 When multiple locations to meet the players of the search criteria, the interface 550 may be displayed first or only near the location of nearby locations.在一个实施方式中，方位界面550可以访问感兴趣的位置的状态信息。 In one embodiment, the orientation of the interface 550 can access the status information of the location of interest.例如，方位界面可以具有访问表示感兴趣的游戏机目前是否在使用、是否有二十一点桌上游戏的座位或商店的信息。 For example, the orientation of the interface can have access expressed an interest in gaming machine currently is in use, if there is information seat blackjack table games or store.该信息可以在界面上显示或者用于縮小搜索标准。 This information may be displayed or used to refine the search criteria at the interface.例如，在一个实施方式中，方位界面550可以仅仅提亮感兴趣的没有被使用的游戏机或感兴趣的有空座位的桌上游戏。 For example, in one embodiment, the orientation of the interface 550 may provide only an empty seat or a game machine of interest is not interested in using bright table games.提供感兴趣的位置的状态 Provide the location of interest to state
信息的优点在于玩家可能不希望进入目前不能向玩家提供感兴趣的服务的位置。 Information advantage is that players may not want to enter the position currently unable to provide services of interest to the player.界面550可以适合于接收多个输入选择来限制满足搜索标准的位置。 Interface 550 may be adapted to receive a plurality of input selection meeting the search criteria to restrict the position.例如，使用界面550，玩家可以定位接收例如镍币投币机的某面值的游戏机，并且提供特定的主游戏。 For example, user interface 550, the gaming machine player may, for example, a positioning receiver denomination nickel slot machine, and provide a specific primary game.作为另一个示例，使用界面550可以确定具有某些奖励游戏的一类桌上游戏的位置。 As another example, user interface 550 may determine a position having a certain type of table game bonus game.玩家己经选择一个或多个匹配游艺场所中特定位置的标准时，可以在界面550上提供表示位置的地图。 When the player has selected one or more criteria matching a particular location in a casino, may be provided in the map represents the position of the interface 550.例如，图31中，玩家已经提供表示想要知道二十一点桌上游戏的位置的输入。 For example, Figure 31, the player has provided input represents want to know the location of blackjack table games.显示区域216提供'二十一点桌上游戏'的消息来表示玩家的位置选择。 Display area 216 provides a message 'blackjack table games' to represent the position of the player's choice.在界面550上，示出了游艺场所的一部分的地图568。 At the interface 550, showing a portion of a map 568 of the casino.地图包括游戏机组， 即，广场、陆标570和多个桌上游戏。 The map includes a game machine, namely, squares, landmarks and more than 570 table games.陆标570可以是喷泉或娱乐场地的其它陆标。 Landmark 570 may be another landmark fountain or entertainment venue.玩家的当前位置564，其是游戏机，以黑色提亮，并且玩家选择的位置二十一点桌上游戏566也以黑色提亮。 The player's current position 564, which is a game machine, in black brighten, and the player to select the location of nine p.m. 566 table games are also black brighten.可以使用例如不同颜色、闪光颜色等的各种方法提亮玩家感兴趣的位置。 You may be used, for example, different colors, flashing colors, etc. Various methods brighten player location of interest.地图本身使用很多不同方法呈现。 The map itself uses many different methods presented.例如，地图可以提供简化的线条图。 For example, the map may provide simplified line drawings.作为另一个示例，地图可以提供特定项目的实际图片。 As another example, the map may provide actual images from a particular project.地图可以根据用在界面上的显示屏的类型以黑色和白色或彩色呈现。 Maps can be presented in black and white or color depending on the type of display used in the interface.玩家可以使用地图快速到达他们感兴趣的位置。 Players can use the map to quickly reach the position they are interested in.在一个实施方式中，界面550可以提供例如连接当前位置564到一个或多个感兴趣的位置的线的方位。 In one embodiment, the interface 550 may provide, for example, the orientation of the line connecting the position of the current location 564 to 1 or more of interest.在另一个实施方式中，玩家可以使用控制按钮562在地图中导航。 In another embodiment, the player can use the control buttons 562 to navigate on the map.在另一个实施方式中，使用打印按钮550，游戏机可以用于打印玩家可以使用打印按钮560得到的地图的复制。 In another embodiment, a print button 550, the gaming machine may be used to print the print button 560 the player may use the map obtained copy.打印的地图可以包括可以在玩家感兴趣的位置使用的促销。 The map may include promotional print can be used in the position of interested players.例如，如果玩家已经选择特定的餐馆，可以提供带有针对选择的餐馆或者另一家餐馆的优惠券的地图。 For example, if the player has selected a particular restaurant, you can provide maps with coupons for restaurants or choose another restaurant's.作为另一个示例，当玩家己经选择在特定游戏机作为感兴趣的位置玩的游戏，方位界面可以是具有用于玩感兴趣的游戏的促销信用的优惠券。 As another example, when the player has chosen to play as locations of interest in a particular console games, the orientation interface can be used to play a game with a promotional credit interest coupons.在附加的实施方式中，方位界面550可以用于鼓励玩家独立于玩家是否已经表示该位置是玩家感兴趣的位置而去特定的位置。 In additional embodiments, the orientation of the interface 550 can be used to encourage players independent of whether the player has said that position is the position of interested players away specific location.例如，界面550可以闪烁具有特定促销活动的位置和提供关于活动详细情况的消息。 For example, the interface 550 may flash locations having a specific promotional activities and provide information about the details of the activity.例如，可以在界面上显示正在提供关于各种游艺场所游戏的学习时间（learning session)的位置并且可以在界面上显示提供学习时间的详细情况的消息。 For example, the interface may be displayed on a position being provided for various casino games time learning (learning session) message and provide details of the learning time may be displayed on the screen.此外，打印选项可以用于打印带有地图的优惠券，从而鼓励玩家去餐馆。 In addition, the print option can be used to print coupons with a map to encourage players to go to a restaurant.例如，打印的票单可以提供餐馆的促销和餐馆所处的娱乐场地的地图。 For example, ticket printing can provide maps restaurant promotions and restaurants in which entertainment venues.界面550上提供的促销还可以链接到关于在地图界面上出现的各种位置的当前状态信息。 Promotional offers on the interface 550 can also link to information about the current status of various locations appear on the map interface.例如，如果没有很多人在玩二十一点或其它桌上游戏，而游艺场所运营者想要鼓励更多的人玩桌上游戏，地图界面可以用于在多个游戏机上来提供桌上游戏的位置并且提供当前可以提供的任何促销。 For example, if there are not many people play blackjack or other table games, and casino operators want to encourage more people to play table games, map interface can be used to provide up table games in more gaming machines location and provide any promotional offer currently available.此外，为了鼓励查看界面550的玩家移动到游艺场所正在进行促销的位置，可以指示游戏机为选择的位置打印票单。 In addition, in order to encourage viewing interface 550 players moved to the casino ongoing promotions location, you can instruct the gaming machine to print a ticket for the selected location.作为另一个示例，如果在特定的餐馆生意不景气而在其它餐馆繁忙，方位界面550可以用于表示各种餐馆的位置和状态信息，例如， 当前等待时间。 As another example, if the downturn in the restaurant is busy in other specific restaurant business, the orientation of the interface 550 can be used for the various restaurants and status information of the position, e.g., current waiting time.为了鼓励不景气的餐馆的生意，可以打印具有方位的优惠券。 In order to encourage the restaurant business downturn, with orientation you can print coupons.图4A和4B是本发明的玩家跟踪单元的不同实施方式的透视图。 4A and 4B are perspective views of different embodiments of player tracking units of the present invention.图4A 是包括多个接口外围器件的机架或机柜300的前视图。 4A is an interface comprising a plurality of peripheral devices and a front view of a rack or enclosure 300.接口外围电路可以用于向玩家跟踪系统提供输入和输出（I/O)或可以用于向例如游戏机的其它游戏系统提供I/0。 Interface to the peripheral circuits can be used to provide input and output (I / O) to a player tracking system or may be used to provide I / 0, for example, to other gaming systems gaming machine.器件机架300可以围绕逻辑器件（见图5)和配置来执行玩家跟踪功能的其它电子器件，或逻辑器件可以围绕与从器件机架300分离的逻辑器件机架中。 Rack device 300 may surround the logic device (see FIG. 5) and other electronics configured to execute player tracking functions or the logic device may be separated from the device around the rack chassis 300 logic device.使用围绕在机架300中的玩家跟踪接口器件，例如玩家跟踪信息的游戏信息可以输入到玩家跟踪单元并且游戏信息对各种可以使用玩家跟踪单元的例如游戏玩家、游艺场所服务人员和维护技师的个体可视并且可听地通信。 Players use the rack around 300 tracking interface devices, such as player tracking information, game information can be entered into the game and the player tracking unit may use a variety of information such as player tracking gamers, casino service and maintenance technicians unit individual visual communication and audibly.器件机架300围绕触摸屏显示器315、键区320、扬声器/扩音器56、读卡器325、 邻近读卡器325的灯311和邻近触摸屏显示器315的灯316。 Device racks 300 around the touch screen display 315, a keypad 320, a speaker / microphone 56, a card reader 325, a light 325 adjacent to the card reader 311 and the touch screen display 315 adjacent the lamp 316.在其它实施方式中，机架300可以围绕很多玩家跟踪接口器件的不同组合。 In other embodiments, the chassis 300 may surround many different combinations of player tracking interface devices.例如，像生物输入器件（例如，照相机、视网膜扫描仪、指纹读取器）的附加游戏器件，无线接口器件照相机和奖励按钮也可以围绕在器件机架中（见图4B)。 For example, as biological input device (e.g., cameras, retinal scanner, fingerprint reader) additional gaming devices, wireless interface devices cameras and bonus buttons may surround the rack device (see FIG. 4B).在一个实施方式中，面板330包围显示器315、键区320、读卡器325、灯316、灯311和扬声器56。 In one embodiment, the display 315 surrounding the panel 330, a keypad 320, a card reader 325, a lamp 316, a lamp 311 and a speaker 56.面板330可以包括例如312的固定孔，用于把例如触摸屏显示器315 的各种玩家跟踪接口器件固定到面板330上。 Panel 330 may comprise, for example, fixing holes 312 for the player, for example, a touch screen display of various trace interface device 315 is secured to the panel 330.面板330包括允许接触玩家跟踪接口器件的切口（未示出）。 Contacting panel 330 includes a cutout to allow the player tracking interface devices (not shown).例如，通过面板330可以看到灯316的前部分、触摸屏显示器315的前部分、和键区的前部分。 For example, you can see the front portion of the front portion of the lamp 316, the front portion 315 of the touchscreen display, and a keypad 330 through the panel.键区的各个按钮，例如312、 322、 323可以通过某种类型的照明器件背面照明。 Each button keypad, for example 312, 322, 323 can be illuminated through the back lighting device of some type.可以独立控制键区按钮后面的照明器件来显示各种光和颜色图案。 The rear lighting device can be controlled independently of the keypad buttons to display various light and color patterns.光和颜色图案可以用于表示游戏信息。 Light and color patterns may be used to represent game information.图2A和2C示出了器件机架300的尺寸（例如305、 308、 310)。 Figures 2A and 2C illustrate frame size (e.g. 305, 308, 310) device 300.只是为了说明的目的，器件机架300表示为矩形盒子。 For purposes of illustration only, the device 300 is represented as a rectangular box rack.器件机架300的形状可以改变而不是严格限制于矩形形状。 Shape of the device chassis 300 can be changed and not strictly limited to a rectangular shape.此外，面板330上切口的尺寸对于玩家跟踪接口器件根据可以用作玩家跟踪器件的特定接口外围器件的生产商可以变化。 Furthermore, the size of the incision for the player tracking interface devices, the manufacturer-specific interface to the peripheral device, the player tracking devices may be used may vary according to the panel 330.典型的，玩家跟踪接口器件尺寸在各个厂商都不同。 Typically, player tracking interface devices each manufacturer is different in size.邻近触摸屏显示器315的灯316可以使用一个或多个照明器件。 Near the touch screen display 315 lamp 316 may use one or more lighting devices.此外， 灯316可以采用一种或多种类型的发光系统，例如发光二极管（LED)、氖管、 白炽灯泡、卤素灯、荧光灯、电致发光元件或其组合。 Further, the light 316 may employ one or more types of lighting systems such as light emitting diodes (the LED), a neon tube, an incandescent bulb, a halogen lamp, a fluorescent lamp, an electroluminescent device or a combination thereof.在特定实施方式中，LED 可以是多色LED。 In certain embodiments, LED may be a multi-color LED.灯可以基本上扩展到包围触摸屏显示器315或者灯可以扩展到包围触摸屏显示器的外围的一部分。 Lamp can be extended to substantially surround the touch screen display 315 or the lamp may be extended to surround the peripheral portion of the touch screen display.灯316内的照明器件可以用于表示不同类型的游戏信息。 The lamp lighting device 316 may be used to represent different types of game information.例如，灯316可以用于表示玩家把他们的卡错误地插入读卡器325。 For example, the lamp 316 can be used to represent the players put their card into the reader incorrectly 325.如参照图3E所述，可以激活灯316来向游艺场所服务人员传递信号以开始'游戏点注册'。 As described with reference to FIG. 3E, lamp 316 may be activated to transmit a signal to a casino service technician to initiate the 'game registration point.'触摸屏显示器315可以是LED、 LCD、真空荧光管、等离子显示屏或任何其他类型的显示技术。 The touch screen display 315 may be an LED, LCD, vacuum fluorescent, plasma screen, or any other type of display technology.参照图2A—2D所描述，触摸屏显示器315可以采用一种触摸屏传感器，优选地但是不局限于电容传感器，以及集成到触摸屏组件的触摸屏控制器。 Described with reference to FIGS. 2A-2D, the touch screen display 315 may use a touch screen sensor, preferably but not limited to, a capacitive sensor, and a touch screen controller integrated into the touch screen assembly.触摸屏显示器315可以用于显示附加的符号或可以用于加强玩家跟踪服务或其它相关的游戏服务的游戏信息。 Touch screen display 315 can be used to display additional symbols or information can be used to enhance game player tracking service, or other game-related services.例如，键区320上的饮料按钮322用于玩家要求饮料。 For example, the beverage buttons on the keypad 320 322 for the player A beverage.附加的饮料符号或文本名称可以在触摸屏显示器315上显示以允许玩家选择特定类型的饮料。 Additional drink symbols or text names may be displayed to allow the player to select a particular type of beverage on the touch screen display 315.触摸屏显示器315的一些部分可以用于以类似于照明器件的方式传达游戏信息。 Some portions of the touch screen display 315 may be used in a manner similar to that of the illumination device to convey game information.例如，触摸屏显示器315的一个或多个部分，诸如触摸屏显示器的周围的矩形边界，可以以各种彩色图案和符号闪烁，作为吸引模式的一部分。 For example, a touch screen display one or more portions 315, such as a rectangular border around a touch screen display, may flash in various color patterns and symbols as part of the attraction mode.此外，触摸屏显示器的一个或多个部分可以用于通知机器事件。 In addition, one or more portions of the touch screen display may be used to inform the machine events.例如，当玩家跟踪卡被正确地插入读卡器325时，触摸屏显示器315的一部分或全部可以点亮为绿色。 For example, when a player tracking card reader 325 is properly inserted, the touch screen display 315 of a portion or all may be lit green.当玩家跟踪卡被错误地插入读卡器325时，显示屏的一部分可以点亮 When a player tracking card 325 is incorrectly inserted into the card reader, the display portion can be illuminated
并且闪烁红色。 And flashes red.作为另一个示例，当发生机器故障时，触摸屏显示器315的一部分或全部可以点亮为红色。 As another example, when a machine fault occurs, the touch screen display 315 of a portion or all may be lit red.2001年8月3日提交的申请号为No.09/921489， Hedrick等人的发明名禾尔为'Player Tracking Communication Means in a Gaming Machine'的共同待决的美国专利申请中，说明了由也可以用于触摸屏显示器的照明器件提供的其它游戏信息（例如，机器事件）的详细情况，在此结合其全部内容作为参考。 Application No. 2001, August 3, filed No.09 / 921489, Hedrick, et al name Wo Seoul invention as 'Player Tracking Communication Means in a Gaming Machine' in co-pending US patent application, the description also by other gaming information may be used for a lighting device provided by the touch screen display (e.g., machine events) in detail, herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.图4B是本发明的一个实施方式的可以围绕用作玩家跟踪接口器件的多个接口外围器件的机架或机柜300的前视图。 FIG 4B is a front view around a rack or cabinet 300 of the plurality of interfaces peripheral devices as player tracking interface devices to one embodiment of the present invention.前板330覆盖有带有丝印标记366 的装饰面365。 The front plate 330 is covered with a decorative surface with a screen 365 of 366 marks.除了关于图4A说明的外围接口器件以外，玩家跟踪机架300 包括无线接口364、照相机362和具有压板360的指纹读取器。 In addition to the peripheral interface devices described with respect to FIG 4A, the player tracking chassis 300 includes a wireless interface 364, the camera 362 and the fingerprint reader having a platen 360.无线接口364 可以与一个或多个无线通信标准兼容，包括但不局限于蓝牙、IrDA、 IEEE802.11a、 IEEE802.11b、正EE802.11x、 hiperlan/2、和HomeRF。 The wireless interface 364 may be compatible with one or more wireless communication standards including, but not limited to, Bluetooth, IrDA, IEEE802.11a, IEEE802.11b, n EE802.11x, hiperlan / 2, and HomeRF.在一个实施方式中，触摸屏显示器315是彩色LCD。 In one embodiment, the touch screen display 315 is a color LCD.触摸屏显示器315 可以用于实现如关于图3A-3E所述的游戏服务界面。 The touch screen display 315 may be used to implement a game service interface as described with respect to the FIG. 3A-3E.此外，触摸屏显示器315 用于代替键区320。 Further, instead of the touch screen display 315 for a keypad 320.具体的，触摸屏显示器可以被玩家用作界面以.O输入玩家跟踪识别信息，2)对于例如玩家跟踪帐户和银行帐户的帐户，査看帐户信息和执行帐户交易，3)接收涉及玩家跟踪单元和游戏机的操作指令，4)兌换奖励或优惠券，包括使用玩家跟踪点数来兑换奖励或优惠券（见图3D)， 5) 预定娱乐服务（见图3C)， 6)转移信用到非现金表示和其它玩家帐户（见图3B)， 7)参予游艺场所促销，8)选择娱乐选项用于通过玩家跟踪单元和游戏机上的视频和音频输出机构输出，9)玩游戏和奖励游戏，10)请求游戏服务， 例如点饮料，11)与其他玩家或游艺场所人员交流，12)玩累进游戏，13)玩家注册参与忠诚计划，例如玩家跟踪俱乐部（见图3E)， 14)执行银行交易以及15)获得机器诊断。 Specifically, the touch screen display may be used as an interface to a player entering player tracking identification information .O, 2) player tracking account to account, for example, and bank account, view account information and perform account transactions, 3) player tracking unit and receiving directed gaming machine operation instruction, 4) redemption or coupon, including the use of player tracking points to redeem rewards or coupons (see Fig. 3D), 5) scheduled entertainment services (see Figure 3C), 6) transfer of credit to the non-cash representation and other players accounts (see Figure 3B), 7) participate in the casino promotions, 8) select entertainment options for video output audio output mechanism on the console and player tracking unit and through 9) to play the game and the bonus game, 10 ) gaming service request, such as a drink, 11) to communicate with other players or casino staff, 12) to play a progressive game, 13) players registered to participate in loyalty programs, such as player tracking club (see Fig. 3E), 14) and perform banking transactions 15) to obtain machine diagnostics.此外，触摸屏显示器315可以被游艺场所服务人员用作界面以：a)访问诊断菜单，b)显示玩家跟踪单元状态信息和游戏机状态信息，c)访问游戏机计量信息（见图3A)以及d)显示玩家状态信息。 In addition, the touch screen display 315 may be used as a casino service interface to: a) access diagnostic menus, b) display player tracking unit status information and gaming machine status information, c) access gaming machine metering information (see FIG. 3A) and d ) displays the player status information.照相机362可以用于安全目的、促销目的和输入生物计量信息。 The camera 362 may be used for security purposes, promotional purposes and input biometric information.例如， 照相机362可以防止侵入玩家跟踪单元或游戏机。 For example, the camera 362 can be prevented from entering player tracking unit or gaming machine.作为另一个示例，当玩家赢得累计奖金时玩家的照片可以被记录并且用于促销。 As another example, when the player wins the jackpot a player photos can be recorded and used for promotion.作为另一个示例，照相机可以具有特征识别软件以识别玩家。 As another example, the camera may have a feature recognition software to identify the player.类似的，指纹读取器360可以用于读取用 Similarly, the fingerprint reader 360 may be used for reading
来确定玩家身份的玩家的指纹。 To determine the identity of the player's fingerprint players.作为另一个示例，扩音器56可以具有语音识别软件来识别玩家的语音以实现玩家验证的目的。 As another example, the microphone 56 may have voice recognition software to identify the player in order to achieve the object of the speech player verification.这样，输入到扩音器的语音信号可以和存储的语音相比较来识别玩家。 Thus, the voice signal inputted to the loudspeaker, and can be stored speech comparing identify the player.在某些实施方式中，生物计量输入器件可以用于补充从插入读卡器的卡读取的信息或者甚至代替读卡器325。 In certain embodiments, the biometric input device may be used to supplement the information from the insertion of the card reader to read or even replace the card reader 325.采用照相机362、指纹读取器360或扩音器输入生物计量信息也可以用作'游戏点'注册方法的一部分。 Using the camera 362, the fingerprint reader 360 or microphone input biometric information registration method can also be used as part of the 'game points.'例如，当玩家尝试在游戏机注册例如玩家跟踪程序的忠诚计划时，玩家的图片或视网膜扫描可以由照相机获取，或者指纹可以使用指纹读取器360记录。 For example, when the player attempts to game consoles such as loyalty programs registered player tracking program, the player's picture or retinal scans can be acquired by a camera, or you can use the fingerprint record 360 fingerprint reader.该信息可以用于将来识别玩家或者用于安全的目的。 This information can be used to identify the player or the future for security purposes.无线接口364可以用于与由玩家、游艺场所服务人员或维护技师配备或携带的便携式无线器件通信。 The wireless interface 364 can be used with a portable wireless communication devices carried by the technician or with the players, casino service personnel or maintenance.例如，胜于向读卡器325插入卡，玩家可以配备或简单地携带大约玩家跟踪卡大小的无线通信器件。 For example, rather than inserting the card into the card reader 325, a player may be equipped or simply carry a wireless communication device about the size of a player tracking card.当玩家在机器附近时，无线接口器件364和由玩家配备的无线器件可以自动互相检测并且建立通信。 When the player close to the machine, a wireless interface device 364 by the player and the wireless device may be equipped to automatically detect each other and establish communication.通信连接允许游戏信息在无线器件之间传输。 Communication connection allows gaming information transmitted between wireless devices.作为另一个示例，无信接口364 可以用于与由游艺场所服务人员携带的无线器件通信，例如用于游戏玩家在游戏机的'游戏点'注册的手持式器件。 As another example, communication interface 364 may be used for non-wireless communication device carried by the casino service personnel and, for example, a handheld device game player 'game points' registered gaming machine.无线接口器件364可以使用例如蓝牙™的无线通信标准与使用该标准的便携式无线器件通信。 The wireless interface device 364 may use a wireless communication standard Bluetooth ™ wireless portable communication devices using this standard.蓝牙在2.45GHz的频率通信。 2.45GHz frequency communications in Bluetooth.典型的蓝牙器件发送信号在l毫瓦的范围内。 A typical Bluetooth device transmits a signal in the range of l milliwatts.信号强度限制该器件的范围在大约10米，并且还限制潜在的干扰源。 The signal strength limits the range of the device is approximately 10 meters and also limits potential interference sources.还使用扩频频率跳频限制干扰。 Also uses spread spectrum frequency hopping to limit interference.例如，器件可以使用在指定范围内79个或更多随机选择的频率，其在规则的基础上改变达到1600次每秒。 For example, the device can use 79 or more randomly chosen frequencies within a specified range, which changes 1600 times per second on a regular basis.这样，即使发生干扰，也只发生很短的时间周期。 In this way, even if interference occurs, it occurs only a very short period of time.当有蓝牙能力的器件进入另一个的范围，发生电子对话来确定他们是否有数据要共享或者确定是否一个需要控制另一个。 When the Bluetooth capabilities of the device into another range, the occurrence of electronic dialogue to determine whether they have data to share or whether one needs to control another.连接过程是自动执行的。 Connection process is performed automatically.一旦器件之间发生对话，器件形成一个网络。 Once a conversation between the devices, the devices form a network.蓝牙系统产生个人区域网络（PAN) 或'微网络（piconets)'。 Bluetooth Personal Area Network system generates (PAN) or 'micro network (piconets).'当微网络中的两个或更多器件保留在其它器件的范围之内，通信器件之间的距离可以随着无线器件移动而改变。 When two or more micro network device remain within the scope of other devices, the distance between communication devices may change as the mobile radio device.一旦建立微网络， 例如无线接口器件364和便携式无线器件之间，微网络的成员一致随机跳频从而他们保持互相联系而避免其它可能在建立的微网络附近运行的微网络。 Once established micro network, such as a wireless interface between devices 364 and portable wireless devices, members of the same network of micro-random hopping to keep in touch with each other so that they avoid other micro network may be running in the vicinity of the micro network established.当蓝牙应用到游艺场所环境，很多这样的微网络可以同时运行。 When the Bluetooth application into a casino environment, many of these micro networks can be run simultaneously.蓝牙TM标准和蓝牙TM特别兴趣组的详细情况可以www.bluetooth.com找到。 Details of the Bluetooth (TM) standard and Bluetooth (TM) special interest group in www.bluetooth.com can be found.其它可以用于本发明的无线标准包括但是不局限于IrDA、 IEEE802.11a、 IEEE802.11b、 IEEE802.11x (例如其它IEEE802.il标准，如IEEE802.11c、 IEEE802.11d、 IEEE802.11e，等）、hiperlan/2、和HomeRF。 Other wireless standards may be used in the present invention include, but are not limited to IrDA, IEEE802.11a, IEEE802.11b, IEEE802.11x (e.g. other IEEE802.il standards, such as IEEE802.11c, IEEE802.11d, IEEE802.11e, etc.) , hiperlan / 2, and HomeRF.在本发明的其它实施方式中，扩音器和扬声器56可以用于输入游戏信息和可听地通信游戏信息。 In other embodiments of the present invention, the microphone and speaker 56 may be used to input gaming information and aurally communicate game information.例如，扩音器56可以与由下述a)和b)执行的声音识别软件一起使用以识别对游戏服务的口头请求，其中a)玩家跟踪单元上的逻辑器件或b)游戏机中的主游戏控制器。 For example, microphone 56 may be used to recognize verbal requests for gaming services with voice recognition software executed by the following a) and b), wherein a main a) a logic device on the player tracking unit or b) a gaming machine Game Controller.例如，玩家可以通过说'我订购饮料'到扩音器来请求饮料。 For example, the player can say 'I order drinks' to the microphone to request drinks.扬声器56可以用于与玩家或使用该游戏机的其他人可听地通信游戏信息。 56 speakers can be used with the player or other person using the game console audibly communicate game information.例如，当卡错误的插入读卡器325。 For example, when the wrong card into the card reader 325.例如'卡插入错误'的消息可以从扬声器发出。 For example, 'insert card error' message can be issued from the speaker.同时，虽然不需要，灯316可以闪烁红色来引起玩家的注意。 Meanwhile, although not required red lights flashing 316 may be caused by the player's attention.作为另一个示例，作为'游戏点'注册的一部分，玩家可以说出他们的姓名、地址和其它需要的信息到扩音器56。 As another example, as part of the 'game point' registered players can say their names, addresses and other information needed to loudspeaker 56.如参照图3E所述，来自玩家的语音信息可以用于从玩家跟踪服务器请求玩家跟踪程序注册。 As described with reference to FIG. 3E, voice information from the player from the player tracking server may be used to request a player tracking program registration.语音识别软件可以与触摸屏显示器结合一起使用。 Speech recognition software can be used with in conjunction with the touch screen display.例如，由玩家从扬声器输入的信息可以被转换为文本，然后在触摸屏显示器315上显示。 For example, information input by the player from the speaker may be converted to text and displayed on the touch screen display 315.触摸屏显示器315上的游戏服务界面可以用于改正从玩家语音输入转换的文本中的错误。 Game service interface on a touch screen display 315 can be used to correct the transition from player voice input errors in the text.来自扬声器56的语音消息可以以不同语言发出。 A voice message from the speaker 56 may emit in different languages.例如，对于讲日语的游戏玩家，消息可以是日语，对于讲西班牙语的游戏玩家，消息可以是西班牙语， 而对于讲英语的玩家，消息可以是英语。 For example, for Japanese speaking gamers, the message may be Japanese, for Spanish-speaking gamers, the message may be in Spanish, and for English-speaking players, the message may be in English.玩家喜好的语音可以储存在玩家跟踪卡上，作为玩家跟踪信息，或者玩家可以使用玩家跟踪单元上的一个输入器件指定他们的语言。 Voice users' preferences can be stored on a player tracking card, a player tracking information, or the player may use an input device on the player tracking unit to specify their language.玩家跟踪卡上的玩家跟踪信息可以基于由玩家之前建立的用户简介，该用户简介可以用于选择由玩家使用的语言。 Player tracking information on a player tracking card can be based on user profile created by the players before the user profile can be used to select the language used by the players.图4C是用于本发明的一个实施方式的通过无线接口364和无线通信382 与手持便携式器件301通信的玩家跟踪单元的方框图。 FIG 4C is a block diagram for one embodiment of the present invention through the wireless interface 364 and a wireless communication handset 382 tracking and communication device 301 of the portable player unit.无线通信382用于产生游戏服务界面，例如之前参照图3A—31说明的手持式器件301上的游戏服务界面。 The wireless communication interface 382 for generating a game service, e.g. 3A-31 before game service interface on the handheld device 301 described with reference to FIG.手持式器件可以是任何类型的手持式计算器件，例如手机、PDA或手机/PDA的结合。 The handheld device may be any type of hand-held computing device, for example in conjunction with a mobile phone, PDA or cell phone / PDA's.本发明不局限于无线通信。 The present invention is not limited to wireless communication.手持式器件可以通过有线连接连接到玩家跟 The handheld device may be connected to the player via a wired connection with
踪单元300和/或可以从玩家跟踪单元300接收电源。 Tracking unit 300 and / or the tracking unit 300 may receive power from the player.例如，手持式器件可以通过连接到USB端口383的有线的USB连接接收数据和/或电源。 For example, the handheld device may receive data and / or power via a wired connection to a USB USB port 383.在一个实施方式中，手持式器件可以通过与玩家跟踪单元的通信连接接收用于在手持式器件上产生游戏服务界面的软件下载。 In one embodiment, the handheld device may be connected via a communication with the player tracking unit receives game service interface for generating a software download on the handheld device.此外，当在手持式器件上执行用于产生游戏服务界面的逻辑指令时，手持式器件可以通过有线或无线通信连接与玩家跟踪单元通信界面需要的数据或由界面产生的数据。 Further, when executed on a handheld device for generating a game service interface logic instructions, a handheld device may be connected to an interface unit in communication with the player tracking needs data or data generated by the interface via a wired or wireless communication.例如，玩家跟踪单元300可以下载用于产生累积奖金/累进界面290(参照图3H所述的） 或者损害最小化界面280 (参照图3G所述的）的软件到手持式器件。 For example, player tracking unit 300 may download used to generate the jackpot / progressive interface 290 (described with reference to FIG. 3H) or the harm minimization interface software 280 (refer to FIG. 3G) is to the handheld device.然后， 一旦在器件301上执行软件，由界面280使用的例如个人累积奖金信息或更新的累进累积奖金信息的数据，可以从玩家跟踪单元向手持式器件301通信。 Then, once performed in software on the device 301, such as personal information or the accumulated jackpot prize accumulated data update information used by the interface 280, the tracking unit may communicate to the handheld device 301 from the player.此外，从界面280的运行产生的数据和/或命令，例如请求显示不同的累进累积奖金可以从手持式器件301通信至玩家跟踪单元并且玩家跟踪单元300可以适当地对命令/数据作出响应。 In addition, data generated from the operation of the interface 280 and / or commands, such as a request to display a different progressive jackpot may be, and a player tracking device 301 from the handheld communication unit 300 to the player tracking unit may respond appropriately to the command / data.在一个实施方式中，手持式器件301可以用作玩家跟踪单元300的遥控。 In one embodiment, the handheld device 301 may be used as player tracking unit 300 of the remote control..例如，使用在手持式器件301上的输入装置，例如输入按钮381或显示380 上的触摸屏，可以选择在玩家跟踪单元300上显示的游戏服务界面290。 For example, the handheld device using the input device 301, such as input buttons 381 or touch screen on the display 380, selecting a game service interface 290 may be displayed on the player tracking unit 300.一旦在显示261上产生界面290，手持式器件可以用于操作界面290并且提供任何需要的输入到界面。 Once the interface 290 on the display 261, the handheld device may be used to operate the interface 290 and provide any required input into the interface.例如，在玩家跟踪单元300上产生的界面可以映射到手持式器件301上并且可以通过手持式器件上的触摸屏显示器向界面提供输入。 For example, the interface generated on the player tracking unit 300 may be mapped to the handheld device 301 and may provide input to the interface via a touch screen display on the handheld device.在另一个示例中，输入按钮381可以用于对玩家跟踪单元上产生的例如290的界面上出现的进行选择。 In another example, the input buttons 381 may be used to occur at the interface generated on the player tracking unit 290, for example, are selected.在另一个实施方式中，可以在玩家跟踪单元上产生第一游戏服务界面， 例如290，并且可以在手持式器件300上产生第二游戏服务界面280。 In another embodiment, a first game service interface may be generated on the player tracking unit, such as 290, and may generate 280 a second game service interface on the handheld device 300.可以通过玩家跟踪单元、手持式器件或其组合上的输入机构互相独立地控制和操作这两个界面。 By the player tracking unit, a handheld input device, or a combination mechanism controlled independently of each other and operation of these two interfaces.一般来说，在本发明中，在玩家跟踪单元或游戏机上产生的任何类型的内容或界面可以以手持式器件上的某种形式产生。 Generally, in the present invention, any type of content or interface generated on the player tracking unit or the gaming machine may be generated in some form on the hand-held device.由于玩家跟踪单元或游戏机的图形、内存和计算能力与手持式器件相比不同，形式可以不同。 Because different compared to the gaming machine or the player tracking unit graphics, memory and computing power of a handheld device, it may be different forms.例如， 可以在手持式器件上显示在游戏机上显示的图形密集内容或界面的简化版本。 For example, display may be displayed on the gaming machine in a simplified version of graphics intensive content or interface on the handheld device.在手持式器件和玩家跟踪单元或游戏机之间可以以各种方法划分命令/控制责任。 Between the handheld device and the player tracking unit or the gaming machine may be divided in various ways command / control responsibilities.例如，在一个实施方式中，手持式器件可以通过执行对界面的软件指 For example, in one embodiment, the handheld interface device may refer to the software by performing
令在游戏机上基本上自动操作逻辑器件。 So that substantially automated logic device on the gaming machine.当执行界面的软件指令，手持式器件可以向游戏机请求和发布信息，例如请求需要的数据或发布数据/命令。 Interface software instructions, when executed, the handheld device may request and release information to the gaming machine, such as a request or data to publish data / command.在另一个示例中，游戏机上的逻辑器件，例如主游戏控制器或玩家跟踪单元控制器， 可以执行允许向手持式器件发送高级命令的软件指令，该高级命令被手持式器件翻译成低级命令。 In another example, a logic device on the gaming machine, for example, the master gaming controller or the player tracking unit controller, may execute software instructions to allow the transmission of high-level commands to the handheld device, the advanced handheld device command is translated into low-level commands.在另一个示例中，游戏机上的逻辑器件可以向手持式器件发送低级命令来直接控制手持式器件的组件，例如手持式器件上的显示器。 In another example, a logic device on the gaming machine may send low-level commands to the hand-held device to directly control assembly handheld device, such as a display on the handheld device.在2002年9月16日提交的申请号为No. 10/246,373， Hedrick等人的发明名称为'PLAYER TRACKING COMMUNICATION MECHANISMS IN A GAMING MACHINE'的共同待决的美国专利申请中，说明了在游戏机上使用遥控器件的附加详细情况，在此结合其全部内容作为参考。 In the co-pending US Patent Application No. 2002, filed September 16 was No. 10 / 246,373, Hedrick, et al entitled 'PLAYER TRACKING COMMUNICATION MECHANISMS IN A GAMING MACHINE' in, explained on game consoles additional details of using a remote control device, herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.图5是连接到游戏机上的主游戏控制器54 (见图1)和玩家跟踪服务器62的本发明的玩家跟踪单元300的一个实施方式的方框图。 FIG 5 is a block diagram connected to the master gaming controller on the gaming machine 54 (see FIG. 1) of the present invention and player tracking server 62 a player tracking unit 300 of an embodiment of.玩家跟踪单元300 包括逻辑器件410和多个玩家跟踪接口器件411，其包括读卡器325、显示器315、触摸屏416、灯面板316、扬声器/扩音器56、无线接口和其它玩家跟踪..接门器件456。 Player tracking unit 300 includes a logic device 410 and a plurality of player tracking interface devices 411, which include a card reader 325, a display 315, touch screen 416, light panel 316, a speaker / microphone 56, a wireless interface and other player tracking ground .. gate device 456.逻辑器件410可以包括用于执行允许玩家跟踪单元执行各种玩家跟踪功能的软件的处理器，玩家跟踪功能例如与玩家跟踪服务器62通信、与主游戏控制器54通信或操作例如读卡器325、显示器315、触摸屏和灯面板316的各种外围器件。 Device 410 may include logic for performing allowing the player tracking unit to perform various player tracking software functions of a processor, the player tracking functions such as communicating with the player tracking server 62, communicating with the master gaming controller 54 or operating a card reader 325, for example, a display 315, a touch screen panel and a lamp 316 of a variety of peripheral devices.例如，逻辑器件410可以把包括玩家跟踪信息或游戏服务界面的消息发送到显示器315并且可以从触摸屏416接收输入事件。 For example, the logic device 410 may include a player tracking information or transmitting the game service message to the display interface 315 and may receive input events from the touch screen 416.作为另一个示例， 逻辑器件410可以向灯面板316发送命令来显示特定的灯图案并且向扬声器/ 扩音器56发送命令来发出声音以可视和可听地传达游戏信息。 As another example, the logic device 410 may send commands to the light panel 316 to display a particular light pattern and to emit sound game information communicated audibly and visually to the speaker / microphone 56 transmits a command.逻辑器件410 可以利用微处理器和/或微控制器。 Logic device 410 may utilize a microprocessor and / or microcontroller.例如，灯面板316可以包括将来自处理器402的信号转换为用于一个或多个照明器件的电压电平的微控制器。 For example, the light panel 316 may include a processor 402 converts the signals from one or more of a voltage level of the lighting device microcontroller.在一个实施方式中，玩家跟踪单元300的应用软件和用于玩家跟踪单元的配置信息可以存储在例如EPROM408、非易失性存储器、硬盘驱动器、或闪存的存储器件中。 In one embodiment, the player tracking unit 300 and the application software configuration information for the player tracking unit may be stored, for example EPROM408, a nonvolatile memory, a hard disk drive, or a flash memory device.玩家跟踪单元可以包括存储器416，配置为存储：1)玩家跟踪软件414， 例如数据收集软件，2)允许玩家跟踪单元300与不同类型的玩家跟踪服务器通信的玩家跟踪通信协议（例如420)， 3)用于很多类型的玩家跟踪接口器件的器件驱动（例如，与触摸屏控制器通信），4)用于从扩音器56接收语音命令的语音识别软件，5)用于显示不同游戏服务界面的软件，6)用于产生'游戏点'注册请求的软件和7)工业标准通信协议（例如440)，例如TCP/IP、 USB、火线（Firewire)、 IEEE1394、 IrDA或蓝牙，允许玩家跟踪单元与采用这些协议的器件通信，以及专用通信标准，例如Netplex和SAS (IGT、 Reno、 NV)，允许玩家跟踪单元与采用这些协议的器件通信。 Player tracking unit may include a memory 416 configured to store: 1) player tracking software 414 such as data collection software, 2) allowing the player tracking unit 300 with different types of player tracking communication protocols player tracking server (e.g. 420), 3 ) used for many types of player tracking device driver interface device (e.g., touch screen and a communication controller), 4) voice recognition software for receiving voice commands from the microphone 56, 5) for displaying different game service interfaces software, 6) for producing a 'coin' software registration request and 7) industry standard communication protocols (e.g. 440), such as TCP / IP, USB, Firewire (Firewire), IEEE1394, IrDA or Bluetooth allowing the player tracking unit communication devices that use these protocols, and a dedicated communication standards such as Netplex and SAS (IGT, Reno, NV), allowing the player tracking unit to communicate with devices using these protocols.典型的，例如54的主游戏控制器采用串行通信协议通信。 Typically, for example, the master gaming controller 54 using a serial communication protocol.可以用于与主游戏控制器通信的串行通信协议的一些示例包括但不局限于USB、 RS—232和Netplex (由IGT、 Reno、 NV开发的专用协议）。 Some examples of serial communication protocol may be used for the master controller in communication with the game include, but not limited to USB, RS-232 and Netplex (a IGT, Reno, NV developed proprietary protocols).可以在存储器316中为各种类型的玩家跟踪器件存储多个器件驱动。 Tracking device can store a plurality of device drivers for all types of players in the memory 316.例如，用于五种不同类型的读卡器、六种不同类型的显示器和八种不同类型的触摸屏的器件驱动可以存储在存储器416中。 For example, for five different types of card readers, six different types of displays and eight different types of touch screen device drivers may be stored in memory 416.当一类特定的外围器件更换为另一类特定的器件，可以由处理器402从存储器416加载新器件驱动以允许与器件通信。 When a particular class of peripheral devices to replace another particular device, may be loaded by the processor 402 from the memory 416 to allow new devices to communicate with the device driver.例如，玩家跟踪单元300中的一类读卡器可以用第二类读卡器代替，其中两种读卡器的器件驱动存储在存储器416中。 For example, player tracking unit 300 may be a class of card reader in place of the second type reader, wherein the reader stores two device drivers 416 in the memory.在某些实施方式中，存储在存储器416中的软件单元可以按照需要升级。 In certain embodiments, the software units stored in the memory 416 may be upgraded as needed.例如，当存储器416是硬盘驱动器时，可以从主游戏控制器54、玩家跟踪服务器62或从其它外部器件把新的器件驱动或新的通信协议上载到存储器。 For example, when the memory 416 is a hard disk drive, it can be 54, the player tracking server 62 or the new device drivers or new communication protocols uploaded from the memory device from other external master gaming controller.作为另一个示例，当存储器416是包含设计或配置为存储玩家跟踪软件414、器件驱动和其它通信协议的CD/DVD的CD/DVD驱动器时，存储在存储器中的软件可以通过用第二CD/DVD代替第一CD/DVD来升级。 As another example, when the memory 416 is designed or configured to store comprising player tracking software 414, the device drivers and other communication protocols of the CD / DVD CD / DVD drive, the software may be stored in memory by using a second CD / The first DVD instead of CD / DVD to upgrade.在另一个示例中， 当存储器416使用一个或多个设计或配置为存储玩家跟踪软件414、器件驱动和其它通信协议的闪存单元时，存储在闪存单元中的软件可以通过用存储有升级的软件的新的闪存单元代替一个或多个闪存来升级。 In another example, when the memory 416 uses one or more designed or configured to store player tracking software 414, when the flash memory cell device drivers and other communication protocols, the software stored in the flash cell may be upgraded with software stored new flash memory cell replacing one or more flash memory upgrade.可以在存储器416中存储玩家跟踪软件应用程序414、通信协议440、玩家跟踪通信协议和器件驱动的最小集。 The memory 416 can be stored in the player tracking software applications 414, communication protocols 440, a minimal set of player tracking communication protocols and device driver.例如，可以在存储器416中存储操作系统、允许玩家跟踪单元300与如玩家跟踪服务器62的远程服务器通信的通信协议和一个或多个公共玩家跟踪应用程序。 For example, the memory 416 stores an operating system, allowing the player tracking unit and the player tracking server 300 communication protocol and the remote server 62 one or more common player tracking applications such as.当玩家跟踪单元电源打开时，玩家跟踪单元300可以接触远程服务器62并且从远程软件下载指定的玩家跟踪软件。 When the power is turned on the player tracking unit, player tracking unit 300 may contact a remote server 62 and download specific player tracking software from the remote software.下载的软件可以包括但是不局限于一个或多个由远程服务器支持的特定玩 Download software may include, but are not limited to one or more remote servers supported by specific play
家跟踪应用程序、特定器件驱动、玩家跟踪软件升级、和由远程软件支持的特定通信协议。 Family tracing application-specific device drivers, player tracking software upgrades, and specific communication protocol by the remote software support.2001年3月19日提交的申请号为No.09/838,033，Criss-Puskiewicz 等人的发明名称为'UNIVERSAL PLAYER TRACKING SYSTEM'的共同待决的美国专利申请中说明了这种方法的详细情况，在此结合其全部内容作为参考。 US patent application co-pending application No. 2001, March 19 filed No.09 / 838,033, Criss-Puskiewicz et al, entitled 'UNIVERSAL PLAYER TRACKING SYSTEM' is described in the details of this method, incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.在一些实施方式中，玩家跟踪功能可以通过逻辑器件410和主游戏控制器54二者实现。 In some embodiments, the player tracking functions may be implemented by both the master gaming controller 410 and the logic device 54.例如，主游戏控制器可以执行语音识别软件来解释从扩音器56输入的语音命令。 For example, the master gaming controller may execute voice recognition software to interpret voice commands input from the microphone 56.作为另一个示例，主游戏控制器54可以执行用于在显示器315上显示游戏服务界面的软件并且可以从触摸屏416接收触摸屏事件。 As another example, the master gaming controller 54 may execute a game service interface for displaying and software that may receive touch screen events from the touch screen 416 on the display 315.例如，玩家游戏控制器可以执行用于允许针对玩家跟踪程序的'游戏点'注册的游戏服务界面的软件。 For example, the player can perform a game controller software used to allow for the 'game point' player tracking program registered gaming service interface.这样如玩家跟踪协议的玩家跟踪软件可以存储在位于与玩家跟踪单元分离的游戏机的存储器上。 Player tracking software such as the player tracking protocols may be stored in a separate unit located on the gaming machine and player tracking memory.在某些实施方式中，可以由游戏机上的主游戏控制器54执行存储在游戏机的存储器上的玩家跟踪软件。 In certain embodiments, the player tracking software that may be executed by the memory 54 of the master gaming controller on the gaming machine in the gaming machine memory.在其它实施方式中，可以由玩家跟踪单元上的逻辑器件410执行存储在游戏机的存储器上的玩家跟踪软件。 In other embodiments, the player tracking software may be stored by the execution logic 410 on the player tracking units on the gaming machine memory.逻辑器件410包括配置或设计为允许玩家跟踪单元300和其它远程器件之间通信的网络接口板406，其它远程器件例如位于像游艺场所网络的局域网、像微网络（例如使用蓝牙）的个人区域网络、或像互联网的广域网的玩家跟踪服务器。 Comprises a logic device 410 configured or designed to allow communication between the player tracking unit 300 and other remote devices of the network interface board 406, other remote devices located in places like the entertainment local area network, personal area network, such as micro network (e.g. Bluetooth) of , like the Internet or WAN player tracking server.网络接口板可以连接到防火墙412、防火墙可以是防止连接到游戏机的外部实体非法访问游戏机的硬件、软件或其结合。 The network interface board may be connected to the firewall 412, the firewall may prevent unauthorized access to the gaming machine external entities connected to the gaming machine hardware, software, or a combination thereof.内部防火墙设计为防止像黑客的某些人非法访问玩家跟踪单元或游戏机并且以某种方式入侵。 Internal firewall designed to prevent, as some hackers unauthorized access to a player tracking unit or gaming machine and in some way compromised.例如，非法的访问可以为试图在玩家跟踪单元中植入改变游戏机的运行的程序， 使得它执行意想不到的功能。 For example, illegal access can be implanted change the operation of gaming machines in the player tracking unit program in an attempt to make it perform unexpected functions.通信板404可以配置为允许逻辑器件410和包括325、 315、 416、 316、 56和456的玩家跟踪接口器件之间的通信，并且允许逻辑器件410和主游戏控制器54之间的通信。 The communication board 404 may be configured to allow logic devices 410 and 325 include 315, 416, 316, 456 and 56 communication between the player tracking interface devices, and allow communication between the logic device 410 and master gaming controller 54.参照图6说明处理器402、显示器315和触摸屏416 之间的通信的附加详细情况。 Referring to FIG 6 illustrates additional details of the communication 416 between the processor 402, a display 315 and a touch screen.无线接口364可以用于允许玩家跟踪单元和可能的主游戏控制器54与便携式无线器件或固定器件采用无线通信标准进行通信。 The wireless interface 364 may be used to allow a player tracking unit and possibly the master gaming controller 54 and the portable wireless devices or stationary devices using a wireless communication standard.无线接口364可以连接到天线357。 The wireless interface 364 may be connected to the antenna 357.在一些实施方式中，无线接口364可以结合到通信板404中。 In some embodiments, the wireless interface 364 may be incorporated into the communication board 404.此外，在一些实施方式中，逻辑器件410和主游戏控 Further, in some embodiments, the logic device 410 and the master gaming controller
制器54可以使用非专用标准无线通信协议进行通信，例如蓝牙、IrDA、 IEEE802.11a、 IEEE802.11b、 IEEE802.11x (例如其它IEEE802.il标准，如IEEE802.11c、正EE802.11d、 IEEE802.11e，等）、hiperlan/2、和HomeRF，或者使用非专用标准有线通信协议进行通信，例如USB、火线、IEEE1394等。 System 54 may use non-proprietary standard wireless communication protocols, such as Bluetooth, IrDA, IEEE802.11a, IEEE802.11b, IEEE802.11x (e.g. other IEEE802.il standards, such as IEEE802.11c, n EE802.11d, IEEE802. 11e, etc.), hiperlan / 2, and HomeRF, or using a non-proprietary standard wired communication protocols, such as USB, Firewire, IEEE1394 and the like.在其它实施方式中，逻辑器件410和主游戏控制器可以采用由游戏机的制造商例如Netplex使用的专用通信协议通信。 In other embodiments, the logic device 410 and master gaming controller may be a dedicated communication protocol employed by the manufacturer of the gaming machine such as Netplex used.玩家跟踪点单元400和1)玩家跟踪接口器件411， 2)主游戏控制器54， 3)玩家跟踪服务器62和4)任何其它外部或内部游戏器件之间的通信可以被加密。 Point player tracking unit 400 and 1) the player tracking interface devices 411, 2) the master gaming controller 54, 3) the player tracking server 62 and 4) any other communication between the external or internal gaming devices may be encrypted.在一个实施方式中，逻辑器件410可以轮询（poll)玩家跟踪接口器件的信息。 In one embodiment, the logic device 410 may poll (poll) the player tracking interface devices information.例如，逻辑器件410可以轮询读卡器325来确定何时卡已经被插入读卡器或可以轮询触摸屏来确定何时触摸屏被触摸。 For example, the logic device 410 may poll the card reader 325 to determine when a card has been inserted into the card reader or may poll the touch screen to determine when the touch screen is touched.当被轮询时，触摸屏可以发送在触摸屏传感器上触摸位置的坐标位置。 When polled, the touch screen may send the coordinate location of the touch position on the touch screen sensor.在一些实施方式中，当发生例如卡被插入读卡器和触摸屏416被触摸的玩家跟踪事件时，玩家跟踪接口器件411 可以联系逻辑器件410。 In some embodiments, for example, occurs when a card is inserted into the card reader, and touch screen 416 is touched player tracking events, player tracking interface devices 411 may contact the logic device 410.逻辑器件410使用合适的器件驱动，可以向各种玩家跟踪接n器件发送指令来执行特定操作。 Logic device 410 using a suitable device driver, the device can track n then sends instructions to the various player to perform certain operations.例如，在卡被插入读卡器325之后，处理器逻辑器件可以向读卡器发送'读卡'指令，向显示器315发送'显示游戏服务界面A'指令并且向扬声器54发送'好运'语音消息。 For example, after a card is inserted into the card reader 325, the processor logic device may send a 'reader' instruction to the card reader, sends a 'display game service interface A' command and transmits the 'good luck' display voice to the speaker 54 to 315 messages.此外，逻辑器件410可以配置为允许主游戏控制器54通过逻辑器件410向玩家跟踪接口器件发送指令。 Further, the logic device 410 may be configured to allow the master gaming controller 54 through the interface logic device tracking device 410 sends an instruction to the player.作为示例，在卡被插入读卡器325之后，处理器逻辑410可以确定该卡是用于由主游戏控制器54控制的游戏应用程序并且向主游戏控制器54发送表示卡已经被插入读卡器的消息。 As an example, after the card is inserted into the card reader 325, the processor logic 410 may determine that the card is for a gaming application controlled by the master gaming controller 54 and transmits to the master gaming controller 54 represents a card has been inserted into the card reader messenger.例如，当玩家请求'游戏点注册'时，可以在游戏机的触摸屏的主显示上显示注册界面而不是在玩家跟踪单元上的触摸屏显示器上显示注册界面。 For example, when the player request 'game registration point', may be registered on the registration screen displayed on the display screen instead of a touch screen display on the player tracking unit in the main touch screen display of the gaming machine.响应来自逻辑器件的消息，主游戏控制器54可以通过逻辑器件向玩家跟踪接口器件发送一串命令例如向读卡器325发送'读卡'的指令、向灯面板316发送闪光图案'A'命令、和向显示器315发'显示消息'的指令。 Response message from the logic device, the master gaming controller 54 via a logic device to the player tracking interface devices 325, for example, send a series of commands sent 'reader' command to the reader, to transmit the pattern flashing light panel 316 'A' command , and 'message' send instructions to the display 315.可以从由主游戏控制器54执行的游戏应用软件得到从主游戏控制器54发送到玩家跟踪接口器件的指令。 It can be transmitted from the master gaming controller 54 to the instruction from the player tracking interface devices gaming application software executed by the master gaming controller 54.游戏应用软件可以涉及或不涉及玩家跟踪服务。 Game application software may or may not involve a player tracking service.玩家跟踪单元300可以包括一个或多个标准外围器件通信连接(未示出）。 Player tracking unit 300 may include one or more standard peripheral communication connection devices (not shown).逻辑器件410可以设计或配置为采用例如USB连接器的标准外围器件连接， Logic device 410 may be designed or configured of standard peripheral devices connected to the USB connector using, for example,
和采用例如USB的标准通信协议与主游戏控制器54和玩家跟踪接口器件通信。 And using a standard communication protocol such as USB and master gaming controller 54 and a communication interface player tracking device.1999年10月6日提交的申请号为No.09/414，659， LeMay等人的发明名称为'STANDARD PERIPHERAL COMMUNICATION'的共同待决的美国专利申请中说明了使用标准外围器件通信连接的详细情况，在此结合其全部内容作为参考。 US patent application co-pending application No. 1999, October 6 filed No.09 / 414,659, LeMay, et al entitled 'STANDARD PERIPHERAL COMMUNICATION' is described in the detailed use of standard peripheral devices connected to the communication , the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference.在一个实施方式中，玩家跟踪单元上的外围器件411，例如显示器315和触摸屏416可以采用有线和无线通信进行通信。 In one embodiment, the peripheral devices on the player tracking unit 411, such as the display 315 and touch screen 416 may communicate using both wired and wireless communication.例如，处理器402可以与触摸屏416通过USB连接器并且使用USB通信协议进行通信。 For example, processor 402 may be a touch screen 416 via a USB connector and using a USB communication protocol.然而，主游戏控制器54可以直接与触摸屏416通信或者与触摸屏416通过通信板404采用无线通信协议进行通信，例如蓝牙、IrDA、正EE802.11a、 IEEE802.11b、正EE802.11x (例如其它IEEE802.il标准，、如IEEE802.11c、 IEEE802.11d、 IEEE802.11e， 等)、hiperlan/2、禾口HomeRF。 However, the master gaming controller 54 may communicate directly with the touch screen 416 with the touch screen 416 or communication using a wireless communication protocol by the communication board 404, such as Bluetooth, IrDA, n EE802.11a, IEEE802.11b, n EE802.11x (e.g. other IEEE802 .il standard , such IEEE802.11c, IEEE802.11d, IEEE802.11e, etc.), hiperlan / 2, Wo port HomeRF.图6是本发明的一个实施方式的玩家跟踪单元中的触摸屏显示器的处理器板的方框图。 FIG 6 is a block diagram of the processor board player tracking units to an embodiment of the present invention, a touch screen display.玩家跟踪单元与显示器514和触摸屏516采用类似PC的架构进行通信。 A player tracking unit with a touch screen display 514 and PC 516 similar architecture to communicate.玩家跟踪CPU 402与存储器控制芯片组502和RAM 504通过本地微处理器总线进行通信。 Player tracking the CPU 402 proceeds to communicate with memory control chip set 502 and RAM 504 via a local microprocessor bus.总线接口单元506提供微处理器总线和PCI总线512 之间的接口并且提供微处理器总线和ISA总线522之间的接口。 Bus interface unit 506 provides an interface between the microprocessor bus and a PCI bus 512 and provides an interface between the microprocessor bus and an ISA bus 522.以太网接口508位于PCI总线512上。 Ethernet interface 508 is located on the PCI bus 512.以太网接口允许与局域网（LAN)以10/100MB的通信速率进行通信。 Ethernet interface allows communication with a local area network (LAN) to communicate with a rate of 10 / 100MB of.处理器402可以与玩家跟踪服务器和位于LAN的其它游戏器件通过以太网接口508进行通信。 The processor 402 may be associated with a player tracking server and other gaming devices located on the LAN via the Ethernet interface 508 to communicate.用于触摸屏显示器514的显示控制器510也位于PCI总线512。 The display controller 510 for the touch screen display 514 is also located on PCI bus 512.显示控制器解释来自处理器402的指令，其允许例如游戏服务界面、视频流、游戏、奖励游戏、视频会议、广告、电影、电视节目和网络浏览器的视频内容在显示器514上显示。 Display controller interprets instructions from the processor 402, which allows service interfaces such as games, streaming video, games, bonus games, video content, video conferencing, advertising, movies, TV shows and a web browser is displayed on the display 514.集成到触摸屏组件的触摸屏控制器518例如通过施加电压来操作触摸屏传感器，并且解释触摸屏输入。 The touch screen controller integrated into the touch screen assembly 518, for example, to operate the touch screen sensor by applying a voltage, and interprets touch screen inputs.例如，对于电容触摸屏传感器，触摸引起的传感器的电压改变可以通过触摸屏控制器518被转换为x和y坐标或像素位置。 For example, for a capacitive touch screen sensor, a touch sensor due to the voltage change may be converted by the touchscreen controller 518 as x and y coordinates or pixel location.触摸屏控制器通过串行连接522向I/O控制器520发送触摸屏事件数据。 The touch screen controller connected to the touch screen 522 send the event data to the I / O controller 520 through a serial.触摸屏控制器18和I/O控制器之间的串连连接可以是采用USB、RS232、PS/2、 火线或IEEE1392的有线连接或者是采用例如蓝牙、IrDA、 IEEE802.11a、 IEEE802.11b、 IEEE802.11x (例如其它IEEE802.il标准，如IEEE802.11c、IEEE802.11d、 IEEE802.11e，等）、hiperlan/2、禾Q HomeRF的无线连接标准的无线连接。 Connected in series between the touch screen controller 18 and the I / O controller may be employed USB, RS232, PS / 2, Firewire or IEEE1392 wired connection using, for example, or a Bluetooth, IrDA, IEEE802.11a, IEEE802.11b, IEEE802 .11x (e.g. other IEEE802.il standards, such as IEEE802.11c, IEEE802.11d, IEEE802.11e, etc.), hiperlan / 2, Wo Q HomeRF wireless connection standard wireless connections.
I/O控制器520通过ISA总线522向总线接口单元506发送从触摸屏控制器接收的触摸屏事件然后发送到处理器402。 I / O controller 520 sends to the bus interface unit 506 via the ISA bus 522 and then transmitted from the touch screen event received by the touch screen controller processor 402.遗留（legacy)网络接口可以连接到ISA总线522。 Legacy (Legacy) network interface 522 may be coupled to ISA bus.遗留网络接口允许处理器与采用例如光纤、电流环（IGT 专用标准）和RS_485的遗留通信协议连接到玩家跟踪单元的游戏器件进行通信。 Legacy network interface allows a processor such as fiber optic, current loop (IGT specific standard) and a legacy communication protocol RS_485 connected to the game device using the player tracking unit to communicate.
转向图7，说明了游戏机上玩游戏的情景下使用玩家跟踪系统的更多详细情况。 Turning to FIG. 7, it illustrates more details of the player tracking system in use to play games on consoles scene.图7中，示出了本发明的视频游戏机2。 In FIG. 7, illustrates the video game machine 2 of the present invention.游戏机2包括一般包围机器内部（未示出）并且由用户可见的主机柜4。 2 generally enclosing an internal gaming machine comprising a machine (not shown) and can be found by the user's main cabinet 4.主机柜包括机器前方的主门8，打开主门以提供进入机器内部。 Main cabinet includes a main door 8 in front of the machine, the main door is opened to provide access to the machine.玩家输入开关或按钮32、硬币接收器28、和纸币识别器30、硬币托盘38、和中间玻璃40附加在主门。 Player-input switches or buttons 32, a coin acceptor 28, and a bill validator 30, a coin tray 38, and the intermediate glass 40 attached to the main door.通过主门可见的是视频显示器34和信息面板36。 Visible through the main door is a video display 34 and an information panel 36.显示器34典型地是阴极射线管、高分辨率平板LCD、或其它传统的电控视频显示器。 Display 34 is typically a cathode ray tube, high resolution flat-panel LCD, or other conventional electronically controlled video monitor.触摸屏可以装配在显示器34而游戏服务界面可以在触摸屏显示器上显示。 The touch screen display 34 may be fitted and the game service interface may be displayed on the touch screen display.信息面板3'6可以是背光、丝印玻璃面板， 该面板具有表示一般游戏信息的文字，信息包括例如玩游戏的硬币数量。 3'6 information panel may be backlit, glass screen a panel having a general game information indicates the text, for example, information including the number of coins to play the game.纸币识别器30、玩家输入开关32、视频显示器34、和信息面板是用于在游戏机2 上玩游戏的器件。 The bill validator 30, player-input switches 32, video display 34, and information panel are devices used to play a game on the gaming machine 2.由机器2的主机柜4内部的电路（见图l)控制这些器件。 These devices are controlled by the circuits inside the main cabinet 4 of the machine 2 (see FIG. L).用于本发明的游戏机可以提供很多可能的游戏，包括传统投币游戏、视频纸牌、 视频二十一点、视频基诺、视频弹球盘、彩票游戏和其它机会游戏以及奖励游戏。 Game For the present invention can provide a number of possible games, including traditional slot games, video cards, video blackjack, video keno, video pachinko, lottery games and other games of chance as well as a bonus game.
游戏机2包括顶盒6，其位于主机柜4的上方。 Gaming machine 2 includes a top box 6, which is located above the main cabinet 4.顶盒6容纳包括可以用于增加在游戏机2上显示的游戏的特征的大量器件，该大量器件包括扬声器10、 12、 14、可以打印用于非现金表示的条形码票单20的票单打印机18。 The top box 6 includes a receiving device features may be used to increase the number of game displayed on the gaming machine 2, the number of devices including speakers 10, 12, 14, can be used to print the bar code represented by non-cash ticket ticket printer 20 18.也包括触摸屏的第二显示器44安装在顶盒中。 The second display may also include a touch screen mounted on the top 44 of the cartridge.第二显示器44也可以用于操作游戏服务界面。 The second display 44 may also be used to operate game service interfaces.
安装在顶盒6内的玩家跟踪单元包括用于输入玩家跟踪信息、显示玩家跟踪信息和显示游戏服务界面的触摸屏显示器22。 Installed in the player tracking unit includes a top box 6 for entering player tracking information, displaying player tracking information and displaying game service interface 22 touch screen display.玩家跟踪单元还包括用于输入包括玩家跟踪信息的磁条卡的读卡器24和用于发出声音并且输入语音数据的扬声器/扩音器42。 Further comprising a player tracking unit comprising an input player tracking information, magnetic stripe card reader 24 and the speaker / microphone 42 for sound and the input speech data.此外，玩家跟踪单元可以包括附加的外围接口器件， Further, the player tracking unit may include additional peripheral interface devices,
例如参照图4A和4B所描述的生物计量输入器件。 4A and 4B, for example, referring to the biometric input device described in FIG.应该理解游戏机2只是从可以实现本发明的广泛的游戏机中一个示例。 It should be appreciated that 2 is only one example from a wide range of gaming machine may be implemented in the gaming machine of the present invention.例如，不是所有合适的游戏机具有顶盒或玩家跟踪特征。 For example, not all suitable gaming machines have top boxes or player tracking features.此外， 一些游戏机具有两个或多个游戏显示-机械的和/或视频的。 Further, some gaming machines have two or more game displays - mechanical and / or video.并且， 一些游戏机设计用于酒吧桌上，并且具有面向上方的显示。 Also, some gaming machines are designed for bar tables and have a top-facing display.还有， 一些游戏机可以完全为非现金系统设计。 Also, some of the gaming machine can be completely designed to be non-cash system.这样的机器可以不包括例如纸币识别器、硬币接收器、和硬币托盘的特征。 Such machines can be characterized, for example, bill validators, coin acceptors and coin trays not included.相反地，他们可以只有票单阅读器、读卡器和票单分配器。 Instead, they can only ticket readers, card readers and ticket dispensers.作为另一个示例， 可以在主计算机产生游戏并且可以在远程终端或远程计算机上显示游戏。 As another example, a game may be generated in the host computer and may be displayed on the remote game terminal or a remote computer.远程计算机可以通过例如互联网的某类网络连接到主计算机。 The remote computer may be connected to a host computer via the Internet, for example, certain types of network.本领域的技术人员将会理解如下所述的本发明可以采用目前可用的或下面开发的几乎任何游戏机。 Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the present invention as described below may be used below or almost any gaming machine developed currently available.
回到图4的示例，当用户希望玩游戏机2时，他或她通过硬币接收器28 或纸币识别器30投入现金。 Returning to the example of FIG. 4, when a user wishes to play the gaming machine 2, he or she inputs cash through the coin acceptor 28 or bill validator 30.此外，玩家可以使用某类非现金表示以在游戏机2上注册信用。 In addition, players can use to register certain types of non-cash express credit on the gaming machine 2.例如，纸币识别器30可以接收打印的凭证包括20，作为信用的标记。 For example, credential received bill validator 30 may include printing 20, as a marker of credit.作为另一个示例，读卡器24可以接收含有可以用于在游戏机上注册信用的现金或信用信息的借计卡或智能卡。 As another example, the card reader can be used to contain 24 can receive a debit card or smart card enrollment credits on the gaming machine cash or credit information.
在开始游戏机2上的游戏进行期间之前，玩家可以把玩家跟踪卡插入读卡器24来开始玩家跟踪期间。 Before starting the game on the game machine 2 during the player can put a player tracking card into the reader 24 to start the player tracking period.在某些实施方式中，在插入他们的卡之后，可以在显示屏22上可视地提示玩家或使用扬声器可听地提示玩家来使用触摸屏显示器22输入识别信息，例如PIN码。 In certain embodiments, after inserting their card, you may be visually prompted on the display screen 22 or the player using a speaker audibly prompting the player to input the identification information using the touch screen display 22, such as a PIN code.典型的，玩家跟踪卡在游戏进行期间可以保留在读卡器24中。 During a typical, player tracking card in the game it can be retained in the card reader 24.作为另一个示例，游戏机可以从由玩家配备的便携式无线器件通过游戏机2上的无线接口器件（未示出）传送玩家跟踪信息。 As another example, the gaming machine via a wireless interface device (not shown) on the transfer player tracking information from a portable game machine 2 is equipped with a wireless device by the player.使用便携式无线器件的一个优点在于玩家跟踪信息的传送是自动的并且玩家不用必须记住正确地把玩家跟踪卡插入游戏机。 One advantage of using a portable wireless device that player tracking information is automatically transferred and players do not have to remember correctly the player tracking card into the gaming machine.
在游戏机上的玩家跟踪期间中，在游戏进行期间玩家在游戏机上玩游戏的特征，例如在游戏进行期间投注的数量，可以转换为玩家跟踪点并且存储在玩家跟踪服务器上玩家的玩家跟踪帐户。 During the player tracking on the gaming machine, at a gamers during game play on the gaming machine features, such as the number of bets During the course of the game, it can be converted to player tracking points and stored on the player tracking server player's player tracking account.之后，积累的玩家跟踪点可以为玩家兌换奖赏或兑换'优惠券'，例如免费午餐或免费的房间。 After that, the accumulated player tracking points can be exchanged for rewards redeemed or 'coupon' for the players, such as free lunch or free room.通常，插入读卡器的玩家跟踪卡包含至少玩家跟踪帐户信息。 Typically, a player tracking card into a card reader contains at least player tracking account information.当卡被正确插入读卡器24时，存储在卡上的信息，例如玩家帐户信息，可以由读卡器读取并且由玩家跟踪单元(见图5)上的逻辑器件传送到玩家跟踪服务器。 When the card is properly inserted into the card reader 24, the information stored on the card, for example, player account information can be read by the card reader and a player tracking unit (see FIG. 5) is transmitted to a logic device on the player tracking server.玩家跟踪帐户信息允许玩家 Allows the player to player tracking account information
跟踪服务器存储在游戏进行期间积累的玩家跟踪点到适当的数量。 Accumulated during the tracking server stored in the game player tracking points to the appropriate number.当玩家没有提供玩家跟踪信息时，例如，当玩家跟踪卡被错误地插入读卡器24或者玩家不是玩家跟踪程序的成员，玩家跟踪点不能累积。 When a player does not provide player tracking information, for example, when a player tracking card is inserted incorrectly or player is not a member of the card reader 24 player tracking programs, player tracking points can not be accumulated.然而，使用参照图3E、 9 和10说明的方法，当玩家不是玩家跟踪程序的成员时，玩家可以在游戏机上注册。 However, with reference to FIG. 3E, 9 and 10 illustrate the method, when a player is not a member of the player tracking program, players can register on the console.在游戏进行期间，要求玩家做影响游戏结果的多个决定。 During the game, it requires players to make more decisions that affect the outcome of the game.例如，玩家可以改变他或她在特定游戏的投注、选择针对特定游戏的奖品、或进行影响特定游戏结果的游戏决定。 For example, a player can change his or her bets on a particular game, select a prize for a particular game, or affect the results of a particular game play decisions.玩家可以使用玩家输入开关32、视频显示屏34或使用一些能够使玩家向游戏机输入信息的其它器件进行这些选择。 Players can use the player-input switches 32, video display screen 34 or using some other device capable player to input information into the gaming machine to make these selections.由装载在游戏机内部的存储器中的玩家跟踪软件可以捕获某些玩家选择。 By the loading within the memory of a gaming machine player tracking software may capture some of the players to choose.例如，玩家玩游戏的速率或玩家在每个游戏的投注数量可以由玩家跟踪软件捕获。 For example, players play the game the player can capture rate or by the player tracking software on the number of bets for each game.在某些游戏事件期间，游戏机2可以显示由玩家可以感知的视觉和听觉效果。 During certain game events, the gaming machine 2 may be displayed by the player can perceive the visual and aural effects.这些效果增加了游戏的刺激，使得玩家更愿意继续游戏。 These effects increase the stimulation of the game, making the players more willing to continue the game.听觉效果包括由扬声器IO、 12、 14发出的各种声音。 Auditory effects include various sounds by the speaker IO, 12, 14 emitted.视觉效果包括闪烁的灯、旋转的灯或从遊，戏机2上的灯、中间玻璃40后面的灯或玩家跟踪单元44 h的灯面板显示的其它图案。 Visual effects include flashing lights, rotating lights or other patterns on the lamp 2 from the tour, game machine, 40 behind the belly glass lamp or player tracking units 44 h light panel displays.玩家完成游戏之后，玩家可以从硬币托盘38接收游戏代币或从打印机18 接收票单20，游戏代币和票单20可以用于继续玩游戏或兑换奖品。 After players complete the game, players can receive from the coin tray 38 game tokens or receive a ticket 20 from the printer 18, game tokens and ticket 20 may be used to redeem prizes or continue playing the game.此外，玩家可以从打印机18接收用于食物、购物或游戏的票单20。 In addition, the player may receive a ticket 20 for food, shopping or games from the printer 18.票单20的类型可以涉及由游戏机内的玩家跟踪软件记录的过去的游戏记录。 20 ticket types can be recorded by the players involved in the game within the game machine tracking software records of the past.在一些实施方式中，这些票单可以由游戏玩家使用以获得游戏服务或作为在游戏机上进行游戏服务交易的收据。 In some embodiments, the ticket can be used by gamers to get game service or as a receipt for the game service transactions on the gaming machine.图8是本发明的在触摸屏显示器上提供游戏服务的方法的流程图。 FIG 8 is a flowchart of providing game services on the touch screen display method of the present invention.700中， 诸如游戏玩家或游艺场所经营者的用户可以通过触摸屏显示器输入识别信息。 700, users such as gamers or casino operators can enter identifying information via the touch screen display.例如，可以通过触摸屏显示器上显示的键区输入PIN号，玩家可以通过触摸屏显示器提供签名进行'签到'，或其组合。 For example, enter the PIN number through the keypad displayed on the touch screen display, the player can provide a signature via the touch screen monitor for 'check-in', or combinations thereof.705中，可以在触摸屏显示器显示游戏服务界面菜单。 705, the game service interface can be displayed on the touch screen display menu.游戏服务界面菜单可以允许用户从用户可用的大量游戏界面中进行选择。 Game service interface menu may allow the user to select from a large number of games available to the user interface.游戏服务界面菜单可以是用户专用的。 Game service interface menu may be user-specific.例如，游艺场所经营者比游戏玩家有权访问不同的游戏服务界面。 For example, a casino operator has the right of access to a different game service interface than gamers.作为另一个示例，由游戏设施确定的'特殊'状态游戏玩家可以访问不是每个游戏玩家都可用的特殊游戏服务。 As another example, as determined by the gaming facility 'special' special state gaming service game players can access each game players are not available.
在710中，用触摸屏显示器从游戏服务界面菜单中选择游戏服务界面。 In 710, with the touch screen display to select a game service interface from the game service interface menu.在715中，显示选择的游戏服务界面。 In 715, a selection of game service interface.例如，选择的游戏服务界面可以允许玩家加入游戏机的玩家跟踪程序。 For example, select a game service interface may allow players to join the gaming machine player tracking program.在720中，提供玩家跟踪服务的处理器可以通过游戏服务界面接收多个触摸屏事件，其可以被转换为游戏服务交易信息。 In 720, provide player tracking service processor can receive multiple touch screen events through the game service interface that can be converted into a game service transaction information.触摸屏显示器上触摸的位置可以允许处理器产生游戏服务交易信息和指令。 Touch on the touch screen display position can allow the processor to generate a game service transaction information and instructions.例如，作为'游戏点注册'的一部分，玩家可以通过在显示不同字母一数字符号的位置触摸触摸屏来输入他们的姓名和地址。 For example, as part of the 'game point registration', players can touch the touch screen display different alpha-numeric symbols position to enter their name and address.地725中，基于由用户输入的信息，可以提供游戏服务或游戏服务交易， 作为游戏服务的一个示例，用户可以在触摸屏显示器上观看选择的视频内容。 To 725, based on information entered by the user, may provide gaming services or gaming service transactions, as an example of game services, users can watch video content selection on the touch screen display.作为游戏服务交易的一个示例，用户可以注册玩家跟踪程序，兌换奖品或转移信用到一个或多个非现金表示，例如打印的票单。 As an example of game service transactions, users can register player tracking program, redeem prizes or transfer credits to one or more non-cash means, for example ticket printing.在730中，可选的产生收据作为提供游戏服务交易的记录。 In 730, the optional receipt is generated as providing game service transactions recorded.可以在位于游戏机的打印机上打印收据。 You can print a receipt printer located on the gaming machine.作为示例，收据可以是由玩家请求的用于促销的优惠券或由玩家预定的娱乐。 As an example, the receipt may be requested by the players for coupons or promotions by the players scheduled entertainment.在735中，用户可以具有请求访问其它游戏服务界面的选项。 In 735, the user can have the option to request access to other gaming service interface.当用户请求访问其它游,艮务界面时，可以根据705重新显示游戏服务界面菜单。 When a user requests access to other travel, Gen Service interface, you can redisplay the menu according to the game service interface 705.图9是在本发明的游戏机上用于提供'游戏点'忠诚计划注册的方法的流程图。 9 is a flowchart of the present invention on the gaming machine for providing a 'game points' loyalty program registration method.图9中，在游戏机上实现该方法。 9, the method is implemented on the gaming machine.然而，如参照图3E所描述的，该方法可以在例如手持无线器件或游艺场所信息亭的游戏器件上实现。 However, 3E as described with reference to FIG., The method may be implemented on gaming devices such as handheld wireless device or a casino kiosk.在800 中，检查玩家注册忠诚计划的请求。 In 800, a registration request to check the player loyalty program.可以采用位于游戏机上玩家跟踪显示、主显示或第二显示上的触摸屏界面开始注册请求。 Located on the gaming machine may be employed player tracking display, main display or a touch screen interface on the second display start registration request.此外，可以采用游戏机上可用的例如输入按钮或键区的游戏机上的其它输入机构开始注册请求。 Further, start the registration request is available on the gaming machine, for example, other input mechanisms on the gaming machine input buttons or keypad may be employed.在一个实施方式中，可以由游戏机自动开始注册请求。 In one embodiment, the registration request can be started automatically by the gaming machine.例如，在游戏机上的游戏进行期间玩家没在参与玩家跟踪期间， 游戏机可以基于玩家已经在游戏进行期间的时间周期上投注的数量开始注册请求。 For example, a game on the gaming machine players performed during the period did not participate in player tracking, game consoles can already bet on the number of time periods during the start of the game based on the player registration request.游戏机可以通过向玩家显示消息询问他们是否愿意注册忠诚计划开始请求。 The gaming machine may ask them to sign loyalty program start request by displaying a message to the player.在805中，在例如但不局限于玩家跟踪单元的游戏机上可用的触摸屏外围接口上显示游戏服务界面。 In 805, for example, but not limited to, player tracking service interface on the display game consoles available on the touch screen unit peripheral interface.810中，来自例如磁条卡、智能卡、房间钥匙、 或便携式无线器件的忠诚计划表示的信息可以被读入游戏机。 810, the information from a loyalty program such as magnetic stripe cards, smart cards, room keys, representation or portable wireless devices can be read into the game machine.例如，在一个实施方式中，为了注册玩家跟踪程序，可以把空白磁条卡插入游戏机的读卡器来 For example, in one embodiment, to a registered player tracking program, you can put a blank magnetic stripe card into a card reader to consoles
读取卡上的序列号。 Read the serial number on the card.地815中，用户可以通过注册触摸屏界面输入识别信息， 例如姓名和地址，该信息由位于游戏机，例如在玩家跟踪单元或主游戏控制器中的处理器接收。 To 815, the user may input via a touchscreen interface register identification information, such as name and address, information such as a processor in the player tracking unit or master gaming controller located on a gaming machine receives.当用户已经完成输入该信息，可以触摸触摸屏显示器上的输入按钮例如'注册'按钮（见图3E)。 When the user has finished entering the information, the touch input buttons on the touch screen display such as 'Register' button (see FIG. 3E).在818中，检查由用户输入的信息。 In 818, the examination information input by the user.在816中，当需要附加的信息，可以把带有针对缺少的信息的请求的消息发送到触摸屏显示器。 In 816, when additional information is required, a message can be sent with a request for the missing information to the touch screen display.在820中，当用户已经输入所需要的注册信息时，由游戏机上的处理器产生注册请求消息并且发送到玩家跟踪服务器。 In 820, when the registration information needed for the user has entered, is generated by a processor on the gaming machine registration request message and sent to the player tracking server.注册请求消息可以包括玩家识别信息和从忠诚计划表示得到的信息，例如来自磁条卡的序列号。 Registration request message may include player identification information and representing information obtained from the loyalty program, such as a serial number from a magnetic stripe card.在一些实施方式中，连接到玩家跟踪服务器的网络可能不可用。 In some embodiments, the player tracking server connected to the network may be unavailable.这样，处理器可以存储注册请求消息并且当玩家跟踪服务器可用时发送该消息。 In this way, the processor may store the registration request message and sends the message when the player tracking server is available.在825中，游戏机从玩家跟踪服务器接收注册应答。 In 825, the gaming machine receives a registration response from the player tracking server.在830中，游戏机从注册应答消息确定注册是否已经被确认。 In 830, the gaming machine from the registration reply message to determine whether the registration has been confirmed.在845中，当注册没有被确认时， 可以给玩家显示表示注册请求被拒绝的消息以及拒绝的理由。 In 845, when the registration is not confirmed, the player may be displayed indicating that the registration request is denied and the reason for the rejection message.例如，注册可能因为玩家已经注册过玩家跟踪程序而被拒绝。 For example, registration may be because the players have already registered player tracking program was rejected.在833中.当玩家跟踪服务器已经确认注册，可以给玩家显示确认消息并且可以在游戏机上开始玩家跟踪期间840。 In 833 when the player tracking server registration has been confirmed, the player can display a confirmation message and you can start tracking the player during the 840 on the gaming machine.在835中，可以由游戏机产生表示已经进行注册的收据。 In 835, it can be represented by the gaming machine already generated register receipt.注册之后，玩家可以使用注册的忠诚计划表示，例如磁条卡、PDA (个人数字助理)、手机、房间钥匙或智能卡，在其它游戏机上开始忠诚计划期间， 例如玩家跟踪期间。 Once registered, players can use the loyalty program registration means, for example a magnetic stripe card, PDA (personal digital assistant), mobile phone, room key or smart card, loyalty program during the start on other games, such as player tracking period.在一些实施方式中，在注册过程中使用的忠诚计划表示可以是由玩家使用来加入忠诚计划的永久成员卡。 In some embodiments, the loyalty program used in the registration process can be represented by the permanent members of the card players to join the loyalty program to use.在另一个实施方式中，在注册期间使用的忠诚计划表示可以是在永久成员卡邮寄给玩家由玩家临时使用的。 In another embodiment, the loyalty program used during registration can be represented in the permanent membership card is mailed to the players by the players for temporary use.图IO是本发明的玩家跟踪服务器上用于提供'游戏点'忠诚计划注册的方法的流程图。 IO is a flow chart for providing a 'game points' loyalty program registered on the player tracking server method of the present invention.在900中，玩家跟踪服务器从游戏器件接收注册请求消息。 In 900, the player tracking server receives a registration request message from a game device.游戏器件可以是游戏机、游艺场所信息亭或手持无线器件至少之一。 Game device may be a game machine, at least one casino kiosk or handheld wireless devices.发送的消息可以由游戏器件加密然后由玩家跟踪服务器解密。 Message transmitted by the game device may be encrypted and decrypted by the player tracking server.在处理注册请求之前也可以以某种方式验证消息内容和消息发送者。 Prior to processing the registration request message may also verify the contents and the message sender in some way.在卯5中，玩家跟踪服务器可以比较包含在注册请求消息中的识别信息和表示信息与存储在玩家跟踪数据库中的信息。 In Mao 5, player tracking server may compare identification information contained in the registration request message indicating information stored in a player tracking information in the database.在910中，玩家跟踪服务器可以确定玩家是否已经是玩家跟踪程序的成员。 In 910, the player tracking server may determine whether the player is already a member of the player tracking program.在915中，当玩家已经注册时，可以产生表示由于玩家已经是该程序的成员注册被拒绝的注册应答消息并且发送到游戏器件。 In 915, when the player is already registered, the player may be generated due represents a member of the program is already registered in the registration response message is rejected and sent to the game device.在920中，当玩家不是玩家跟踪程序的成员时，玩家跟踪服务器可以使用包含在注册请求消息中的玩家识别信息和忠诚计划表示信息产生新的玩家跟踪帐户。 In 920, when the player is not a member of player tracking programs, player tracking server can use the player identification and loyalty program information contained in the registration request message indicates the information to produce new player tracking account.识别信息可以包括例如扫描的指纹、照片、声波纹的生物计量信息或签名，其可以存储在新的玩家跟踪帐户中。 May include identifying information such as a fingerprint scan, photograph, signature or biometric voiceprint information, which can be stored in the new player tracking account.在925中，由玩家跟踪服务器产生包括注册确认的注册应答消息并且发送到游戏器件。 In 925, comprising generating the registration confirmation response message registered by a player tracking server and sent to the game device.在930中，PIN号可以之后发送给玩家。 In 930, PIN number can then be sent to the player.虽然为了清楚理解的目的，已经详细说明了前述的发明，很明显可以在所附权利要求书的范围内进行改变和修改。 Although for purposes of clarity of understanding, been described in detail in the foregoing invention, it is apparent that changes and modifications may be made within the scope of the appended claims.例如，本发明的游戏机已经说明是具有安装在主游戏机架上部的顶盒的立式游戏机，但是根据本发明的游戏器件的使用不限制于此。 For example, the gaming machine of the present invention has been described is mounted in a vertical gaming machine having a top box of the gaming machine main frame portion, but is not limited thereto using a game device according to the present invention.例如，可以提供没有顶盒的游戏机或游戏机可以是顶部倾斜或桌上式设计。 For example, may be provided without a top box or the gaming machine of the gaming machine may be inclined or table top design.
Claims (47)
Translated from Chinese
Priority Applications (3)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US11/064,217 | 2005-02-22 | ||
| CN101128850AtrueCN101128850A (en) | 2008-02-20 | ||
| CN2006800056890ACN101128850B (en) | 2004-10-04 | 2006-02-15 | Jackpot interfaces and services on a gaming machine |
Country Status (8)
Ps 2 Olx
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| EP (1) | EP1851734A1 (en) |
| AU (1) | AU2006216910B2 (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2596963A1 (en) |
| WO (1) | WO2006091490A1 (en) |
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winning
/-/
come find me when you wake up
…
Live.
Die.
Repeat.
(that was how it was in Verdun. Now things are different - now there's another step:
Live.
Die.
Forget.
Repeat.
it's a vital difference)
…
She realises, looking into his eyes, exactly what is going on. She sees herself looking back at her. The tired eyes, the confusion – the why me, the why do I get to watch everyone die again and again and again?
She knows that she's probably going to die soon and he's going to wake up exactly where he woke this morning; no blood, no guts, no death.
She yells at him and hopes that he will understand. Hopes that she will too – if he finds her, and tells her because she won't know, because in a few seconds she is going to be dead and then she will forget.
She wonders what she's letting him in for. She knows there's only one way this ends up. She wonders if this man she's only just met will be strong enough to watch her die again and again and again. Because, sure as hell, he will have to.
Then the ship explodes. She dies, not for the first time and to him, not for the last.
She wakes up, just like him; no blood, no guts, no death.
No memory, either.
…
Every time it's the same.
No matter how far they go, no matter how things change between them, she dies, he dies, things reset and her memory goes with it.
When she can remember him, when they're in the middle of the battle, or training or somewhere in France in a battered car; she knows exactly how it feels to be him, because she was, in essence. She died and died and died again and every time she woke up in the same place; her mind full of images and memories and nightmares for something that to everyone else never happened.
She understands him, and his clouded eyes and robotic body language. Can forgive him for the way he knows exactly what is going to happen before it does – because she was him, once.
She knows how much it can break your heart.
And then, the drop ship explodes or she gets shot or torn to pieces and she forgets it all.
…
One time, when they're in the farmhouse, and it's dark and cold and the damn helicopter won't work, she thinks about what might happen if they get it right.
What then? She'll have a future, he'll have a future.
What then?
She puts the thought out of her mind. And promises herself she'll never think of it again.
But every time, her memory fades so it's a promise she can never keep.
…
Once, she dies so horribly, so painfully – she's glad she will forget.
…
Once, he makes her tell him more than she's told anyone in a long time.
Then, later, when the mimics have attacked, she shoots him knowing that it means he will get to remember this, and she never will.
…
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Once – once mind, or at least she thinks it's the first time – she lets him hold her.
…
Once, they make love in the farmhouse somewhere in the middle of France, a natural development from the holding she can't remember and that happened so long ago for him.
This only happens once, he tells her later and she believes him. She can see the pain it caused him, written in his eyes.
…
Once, she dies, and then he dies.
Oh, sorry – every time, every time they die.
…
Once, they get separated on the beach and she watches him die from afar – he clearly hasn't been though this many times and his aim is a little off. She ends up alone in the caravan park, more by luck than design. She sits down for a little while, knowing she should just grab her pistol and end it all now.
She never considered what it was like for those left behind, not when she was in Verdun. She thought about herself, that was all.
Now, she thinks about all the people who die, every time, on this beach. About how she could have died hundreds of times for him and to her this is the first.
She wonders just how well he knows her.
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She shivers, grabs her pistol.
The world goes black, pain ripples though her. She hopes to god she never thinks about that again.
It's one benefit of forgetting it all, she guesses – the horrors go away each time now, unlike Verdun, unlike for Cage, where the horrors get built on, get ingrained until you become desensitised, become able to look them in the eye. But even then, Rita might take forgetting over them.
…
When she sees on the news that the war is over, she doesn't believe it. She also doesn't know she gave her life so many times to help destroy it – that she helped to defeat the enemy, to end the war.
Then a man appears out of nowhere, a fantastical man with wild stories.
She looks him in the face, frowning. She recognises those eyes, but she can't place from where.
He smiles at her.
Over the coming days, weeks, months, this stranger who looks at her like she is the world tells her a series of stories, all containing a woman who is her but not her.
When he finally finishes, when he finally tells her everything – even the hard parts, even the parts that broke him – she looks at him, with tears in her eyes.
It's been nine months since a stranger began to tell her their story. He is no longer a stranger, and yet she thinks he will always know her better than she knows him. He does have the advantage of so much more time, after all.
She is – was - the Full Metal Bitch. She doesn't cry. But she does then.
Cage – he told her she never called him anything else – is lying beside her. The light is slanting through the windows, casting the room in a soft glow.
They are lovers – what did she expect? The man knows her inside out, and despite it being nine months since they met for her – he has known her for so much longer, has loved her for so much longer. It didn't take her long to fall in love with him in return – not when he knew everything about her, down to her darkest secrets.
She cries, though, because she can't remember. He tells her stories, memories for him – they are real, they happened and yet the Rita in them could be anyone - they are certainly not her. She knows that remembering would mean the blood and the guts and the death, but they would mean knowing him, too.
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She cries because she can never remember.
Because it always went the same way – live, die, forget, repeat.
Because she will always be chasing the wisps of memories that don't exist.
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But then she smiles, because at least she has now. At least they have now.
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