WO2017032460A1

WO2017032460A1 - Method and apparatus for checking parallel use of gaming and/or entertainment machines

Info

Publication number: WO2017032460A1
Application number: PCT/EP2016/001450
Authority: WO
Inventors: Dirk Schwerdling
Original assignee: Novomatic Ag
Priority date: 2015-08-27
Filing date: 2016-08-26
Publication date: 2017-03-02
Also published as: DE102015011325A1; EP3341921B1; EP3341921A1

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method and an apparatus (100; 200; 300; 400) for checking parallel use of gaming and/or entertainment machines (110; 210, 230, 250; 310, 330, 350; 410, 430, 450), particularly in the form of slot machines and/or gambling machines operable on a cash value basis. These gaming or entertainment machines (110; 210, 230, 250; 310, 330, 350; 410, 430, 450) are usually disabled and can be enabled for active use by means of the input of biometric user data. In this case, an explicitly identifiable identification feature is first of all stipulated for the biometric user data that are to be input. Biometric user data are then captured (a) for an entertainment machine (110; 210; 310; 410) by a capture unit (101; 201; 301; 401) of the apparatus (100; 200; 300; 400). These captured user data are then checked by a checking unit (102; 202; 302; 402) for the presence of the explicitly identifiable identification feature and are compared (b) by the enabling unit (103; 203; 303; 403) of the apparatus (100; 200; 300; 400) with biometric user data that are captured when further entertainment machines (230, 250; 330, 350; 430, 450) are enabled and that are stored at the time of an enabling check on the entertainment machine (110; 210; 310; 410). In the absence of a match between the captured biometric user data and the already stored user data and in the presence of the explicitly identifiable identification feature for the captured biometric user data, the entertainment machine (110; 210; 310; 410) is enabled (c) by the enabling unit (103; 203; 303; 403). The captured biometric user data are stored (d) in a local or central memory unit (104; 204; 304; 404).

Description

Method and device for checking parallel use of gaming and / or entertainment devices

TECHNICAL AREA

The present invention relates to a method and a device for checking a parallel use of gaming and / or entertainment devices, in particular in the form of monetary actuated gaming machines and / or betting machines, as well as a gaming and / or entertainment device with such a device. Gaming and / or entertainment devices are usually disabled without active use and can be released by the use of identification means and / or by entering biometric user data for active use.

STATE OF THE ART

For security and player protection reasons, it may be required in some countries, such as Germany, that simultaneous and parallel use of entertainment and / or games equipment, especially in the form of monetary value operated gaming machines and / or betting machines, should be prevented. Usually, an entertainment device is in a so-called standby mode blocked for active use or game operation. For active use or for game operation, the entertainment device, for example, after a review of the user (eg age control, checking for eventual player lock, etc.) must be unlocked. Such an activation can be carried out, for example, by means of a key switch or by activation via a service menu. Alternatively, the release of an entertainment device, for example, by using an identification means done. Particularly in the case of gambling machines operable with monetary value, an acceptance of funds (eg coins, bills) and / or monetary means (eg tokens, tokens, chip card, credit cards, etc.) is only released at the gaming machine by the activation or eg by using the identification means and thus an active use or an active game operation allows.

Such identification means for releasing an entertainment device are usually device-specific and executed without playing. That for each e.g. placed in a playground entertainment device is a separate device associated with this identification provided, which is recognized only by this entertainment device and accepted for activation. The respective identification means can for example be issued after a review of the player to this - according to those entertainment device, which the player would like to use. For example, device-specific chip cards, device-specific PIN codes, device-specific plastic pens with e.g. integrated chip, etc. may be provided. By using the identification means - such as e.g. Entering the device-specific PIN code or plugging the device-specific chip card or the device-specific plastic pen - is then released the respective entertainment device for a money acceptance or acceptance of cash or for game operation.

In order to prevent a parallel and simultaneous use of several entertainment devices, however, it must be ensured that each user is always given only a device-specific identification means. This means that when changing the entertainment device, the corresponding identification must be Onsmittel returned by the user and the user a new means of identification for the newly desired entertainment device will be handed out. This leads to a relatively high outlay for the service personnel in a gaming venue, which, for example, must document exactly when which identification means has been issued to which user or has been returned by it. Furthermore, even by a personnel-intensive and expensive control of the output of the identification means can not be prevented that unintentionally, for example, by mistake recording or possibly by intention or eg by passing between users a user identification means for several entertainment devices are available simultaneously and this user then can play these entertainment devices at the same time.

Another possibility of unlocking entertainment devices, for example, provides a use of biometric data such as fingerprint, Venenscan, taking pictures of one or both eyes, parts of the face or the voice of the user, etc. From DE 199 44 140 A1, for example, a money-operated device such as For example, a gambling machine, etc., which has a recognition device for receiving a biometric feature (eg fingerprint, eye or face parts). This recorded biometric feature is then compared by means of a comparison device with stored comparison data. If the recorded biometric feature matches the comparison data, then the entertainment device is released for use. In the entertainment device described in DE 199 44 140 A1, a user authorization (eg, majority, no player lock, etc.) of the respective user can be checked in a simple manner. However, it does not determine or test whether a user simultaneously activates and uses the game to play multiple amusement devices by entering his biometric data. Furthermore, an at least one, possibly complex registration of the user and a complex data storage for the comparison data is necessary, with an example, in some countries for data protection reasons required anonymity of users is no longer or hardly given. From the document WO 03/058878 A1, an entertainment device with a biometric system and an associated method are also known. In this entertainment device and associated methods, the user acquires biometric data on the entertainment device and compares it to biometric data of the user provided by another source, such as a so-called smart card. In this entertainment device and the associated method, a complex registration - eg storage of biometric comparison data on the smart card - necessary. Furthermore, the disclosed in WO 03/058878 A1 method has the disadvantage that a simultaneous, parallel use of entertainment devices can not be determined because, for example, is not excluded that a user has several smart cards with biometric comparison data for unlocking entertainment devices, since a storage of the biometric comparison data can also be done eg directly in a first game on an entertainment device.

PRESENTATION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is therefore based on the object of specifying a method and a device of the aforementioned type, by which disadvantages of the prior art are avoided. In particular, a simultaneous, parallel use of entertainment devices while maintaining the anonymity of a user should be determined and prevented in a simple and secure manner.

According to the invention the object is achieved by a method, a device and an entertainment device of the type mentioned above with the features of the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments of the present invention are described in the dependent claims.

Thus, a method of the type specified in the introduction is proposed in which first a clearly identifiable identification feature is defined for the biometric user data to be entered. Then be for a release of the entertainment device captures biometric user data. The acquired biometric user data are checked for the presence of the predetermined, uniquely identifiable identification feature and compared with already known or stored biometric user data that has been recorded on other entertainment devices or in the release of other entertainment devices. If a presence of the predetermined, uniquely identifiable identification feature is detected in the recorded biometric user data and no match with the already known or stored, biometric user data found so the entertainment device is released for use - ie the user is logged on any other entertainment device and may play - and the captured biometric user data is then stored for a period of use.

A major aspect of the method for checking parallel use of entertainment devices is that without prior - possibly complex registration of users and extensive data storage - a parallel and simultaneous use of at least two entertainment devices by a user can be easily detected and prevented in a simple manner. By capturing and processing biometric user data such as fingerprints, iris scans, shots of a face, etc. directly on the respective entertainment device no prior, complex registration is necessary. By specifying a clearly identifiable identification feature for the biometric user data to be entered by the user, it is ensured that the same biometric user data is (are) always input by the user with each logon or release process to an entertainment device. Such an unambiguously identifiable identification feature can be, for example, an arrangement / sequence of finger lengths, whereby it is clearly recognizable whether the fingers of the right or left hand are detected, or eg a relation of eye and nose, whereby it can be determined whether the right or the left Eye, or, for example, a relation of prominent points (eg, eye, nose, mouth, etc.) occurring in a sensed area of the face, to ensure detection of always the same given area of the face. The clearly identifiable Thus, the unique identification feature prevents the use of more than one entertainment device. In this sense, comparable biometric user data are, for example, the ten fingerprints of the ten fingers of a user or the two iris scans of the two eyes of a user. By means of the uniquely identifiable identification feature, a selection is made from the comparable biometric user data, for example the four fingerprints of the four fingers without the thumb of the left hand in its natural arrangement or the iris scan of the left eye in combination with the relation of the left eye to the nose. On the basis of this selection of the comparable biometric user data predetermined by the uniquely identifiable identification feature, it is possible to identify a user that is less expensive than, for example, an identification based on a full-face scan and still use the remaining comparable biometric data not included in the given selection of the comparable biometric user data Prevents user data for sharing use of another entertainment device. In the above two examples, the remaining comparable biometric user data not included in the selection made by the uniquely identifiable identifier would be the fingerprints of the five right and left thumb fingers and the fingerprints of the four fingers unnatural without the left hand thumb Arrangement and the iris scan of the right eye.

Only when the corresponding biometric user data having the predetermined, uniquely identifiable identification feature has been detected, and a comparison of the acquired biometric user data with already known or stored biometric user data provides no match, then will an activation of the entertainment device carried out . The already known biometric user data are those biometric user data stored for other currently enabled or activated entertainment devices. This is determined in a simple manner and while maintaining anonymity during the activation of an entertainment device, whether the user already another entertainment device is used or not. If the recorded biometric user data eg in a group of several entertainment devices or eg in the entertainment devices of a gaming venue are not known or no match with already known or stored biometric user data is found and the recorded biometric user data have the predetermined, uniquely identifiable identification feature on, the entertainment device is released to the user. The collected biometric user data of the user is then stored for the respective period of use.

An expedient further development of the invention envisages that the biometric user data that has been recorded for the release of the use is reentered for terminating the use of the entertainment device. The captured biometric user data is then deleted and the entertainment device is placed in a locked state or so-called standby mode. This ensures that only that user terminates the use of the entertainment device through which user the entertainment device has been activated. By removing or deleting the collected biometric user data after the end of the use of the entertainment device, the anonymity of the user is preserved. Furthermore, this eliminates a complex data storage and data storage. It is only necessary to store the recorded biometric user data of the respective user who is currently active on the entertainment devices for the respective service life.

Alternatively, it may also be advantageous if the recorded biometric user data of a user are transferred, for example, to a depot storage unit after the active use of an entertainment device has ended. In this case, for example, current data of the just ended use of the entertainment device such as score, a score, etc., can be linked and stored with the recorded biometric user data. The depot storage unit is not used for the procedure or release test of an amusement device. However, it can after a successful release of a user on an entertainment device, for example, again very easy to access data such as score, score, etc. delayed access or game-specific data such as score, score, etc. can be easily taken to another entertainment device ,

Furthermore, it may optionally be provided that e.g. upon a prolonged input break on the entertainment device (for example, no key input, input via touch screen, etc.) after a predetermined period of time, the entertainment device is automatically locked and the biometric user data currently recorded on the entertainment device (i.e. the recorded, biometric user data of the current user - be deleted. This will easily prevent an amusement device from being activated or released if the user is not properly using it - i. by entering his biometric user data - is terminated.

It is furthermore advantageous if, in the absence of the predetermined, uniquely identifiable identification feature, an information or error message is output for the user in the case of the acquired biometric user data and / or if the recorded biometric user data match already stored biometric user data. It provides the user with simple instructions on how to enter biometric user data, or simply prompts the user to log out of another entertainment device. As a result, an activation or release of an entertainment device for the user is simple and easy to handle. For example, the user is quickly alerted to input errors or parallel use of entertainment devices. It is advantageous if a display device of the entertainment device is shared for the output of these information messages or accessibility for the user. The information messages or input aids can be output and displayed, for example, on a display of the entertainment device. Conveniently, messages can be sent to the entertainment device via a standardized release and lock interface of the entertainment device. Upon verification of the collected biometric user data for correct input and a determination that there is no match with already stored biometric user data, a release message or an enable signal may be sent to the entertainment device. If a match is found with already stored biometric user data, then a lock message or an inhibit signal may be sent to the entertainment device. By transmitting these messages or signals via a standardized interface to the entertainment device, the method can ideally be used on different devices from, for example, different manufacturers. That is, it can be checked very easily when using entertainment devices of different types and / or from different manufacturers, whether a user is attempting to use at least two entertainment devices in parallel and at the same time.

Ideally, an exchange of data, in particular between entertainment devices, is performed. This data may include, for example, captured biometric user data for further or subsequent entertainment device reviews or information that certain biometric user data was captured or stored on or for an entertainment device. The communication or the exchange of data can be done via a wired and / or wireless connection. For a wired connection or a wired data exchange, for example, already existing connections between entertainment devices can be used. In a wireless connection, for example, wireless connections via wireless LAN can be used.

The recorded biometric user data of a user can be stored or temporarily stored by the user either decentrally or centrally during the use of the entertainment device. For a decentralized storage For example, the currently collected, biometric user data can be made available to all entertainment devices of a given group and then cached on each device of this group. The biometric user data is thus very quickly available for a review or release process. Alternatively, the captured biometric user data can, after a successful release, for example, be locally stored on the respective entertainment device on which the biometric user data has been acquired. A central storage of the recorded biometric user data has the advantage that the recorded biometric user data, for example, are readily available for all entertainment devices of a given group and can be queried by them. Furthermore, deleting the user data in the case of central storage is likewise easy to carry out.

Furthermore, a device of the type described above is proposed, with which said method can be carried out. This device consists of at least one detection unit, via which predetermined, biometric user data can be entered and detected by a user, and of a test unit, from which a presence of a predetermined and uniquely identifiable identification feature in the detected biometric user data of the user is verifiable. Furthermore, the device comprises a release unit for comparing the acquired biometric user data with already available or stored, biometric user data, which have been recorded, for example, in successful or successful releases of other entertainment devices and are stored at the time of the release test. Furthermore, the release unit for releasing the entertainment device is set up when no match of the user's recorded biometric user data having the predetermined and uniquely identifiable identification feature with the already known or stored biometric user data can be determined. Furthermore, a memory unit is also provided in which the acquired biometric user data can be stored by the associated user during active use of the entertainment device. A main aspect of the device for checking parallel use of entertainment devices is that a parallel and simultaneous use of at least two or more entertainment devices by a user can be detected and prevented in a simple and secure manner. In this case, ideally no expensive pre-registration of the users and a complex data storage and review is necessary.

About the detection unit, which may be designed depending on the biometric user data to be detected, for example, as a fingerprint or handheld scanner, for example, for placing four fingers of one hand or both thumbs simultaneously, as an image pickup device for receiving an eye, both eyes or a face part of the user the biometric user data can be entered and recorded. By the test unit can be easily determined whether predetermined biometric user data has been entered by the user. For this purpose, it is checked for the presence of a predetermined, uniquely identifiable identification feature (eg sequence of finger lengths or fingers, relation of eye and nose, etc.) which must have the biometric user data entered by the user and acquired by the registration unit. With the release unit, a comparison of the recorded biometric user data with already stored, biometric user data is feasible. By this comparison, a planned parallel use of at least two entertainment devices by the user can be determined. Only if there is no match of the acquired with the already stored, biometric user data and presence of the predetermined, uniquely identifiable identification feature is the entertainment device for which the user has entered his biometric user data, released by the release unit, for example by means of a release message or a release signal for use , The acquired biometric user data is stored in the memory unit for the user's lifetime after successful release. The captured biometric user data is thus available for further sharing / reviewing of other entertainment devices. The storage of the data can be encrypted and / or coded for security reasons, for example. By a renewed input of the already recorded biometric user data via the registration unit, a continuous use of the entertainment device by the user can be terminated. The recorded, biometric user data of the user are deleted from the memory unit or permanently removed. In addition to the storage unit, optionally a depot storage unit, which is ideally designed centrally, may be provided. In this depot storage unit, for example, the recorded biometric user data can be stored together with usage-specific data at the time of the end of use (eg current score, score, etc.) and retrieved again at a later time with the help of biometric user data.

It is advantageous if, furthermore, a standardized interface is provided over which messages, e.g. for a release / activation and / or for a lock to the entertainment device are transferable. By using a standardized interface, the device is very simple for various devices of e.g. can be used by different manufacturers. After the comparison of the recorded biometric user data with the biometric user data already stored, the release unit can generate a release message or a blocking message / signal depending on the result of the comparison and send it via the standardized interface to the entertainment device.

Furthermore, it is favorable if a communication interface is provided for exchanging and / or transmitting data, in particular between the entertainment devices or devices associated with different entertainment devices. This communication interface can be integrated, for example, in the standardized interface or executed as an independent interface for data transmission. Transmission of the data may ideally be feasible by means of wired connections and / or wireless connections. In an expedient refinement of the device, output of accessibility aids and / or informational messages may be provided, such as in the absence of the unique, identifiable identification feature in the acquired biometric user data and / or if the acquired biometric user data match already stored biometric user data. a display device of the entertainment device be usable. To control the output of input help and / or informational messages, for example, the standardized interface can be used. The user can be notified in this way, for example, quickly entering wrong biometric user data - eg the fingerprints of the four fingers of the left hand instead of the required fingerprints of the four fingers of the right hand on the detection unit - or a parallel use of entertainment devices, which the handling of the device is much easier and easier.

The storage unit can be embodied either as a local, decentralized storage unit for the respective entertainment device or as a central storage unit, wherein a central storage unit can be used for a plurality of entertainment devices or for a given group of entertainment devices.

It is advantageous if the device can be executed as a modular unit. Such a module unit may be attachable to an entertainment device using, for example, the standardized interface. Thus, the device can be easily attached to an entertainment device or installed in this. It is thus possible to equip entertainment devices quickly and by simple assembly with the device or for a review of parallel use of entertainment devices.

Also, for example, a defect of the device and / or the entertainment device replacement is very easy and fast to carry out. By using or connecting the device via the standardized interface to the entertainment device, the device, for example, equipment and / or manufacturer can be used independently. Alternatively, the device may expediently be embodied as an independent modular unit, in particular as a so-called stand-alone unit. The stand-alone module unit can be assigned, for example, several entertainment devices for checking a parallel use or for release and blocking operation. For this purpose, the configured as a module unit device ideally have an input unit, which is selected by a user, for example, before or after entering his biometric user data that entertainment device that the user wants to use or which should be released for him. In addition, the device may comprise an input assistance display unit and / or an output of information or error messages. The display unit can be designed as a separate unit or integrated into the input unit. By implementing the device as an independent module unit, only one device is ideally required for the release or blocking of several entertainment devices, to which these entertainment devices are connected, for example via the standardized interface and / or the communication interface of the device. This can be very simple entertainment devices added and / or replaced.

But it is also possible that the device is designed to be integrated into the entertainment device. In this case, functional units of the entertainment device can advantageously be shared. For example, a memory of the entertainment device may be used to store the captured biometric user data during use of this entertainment device. It is also conceivable that when integrated into the entertainment device, for example, the test unit and / or the release unit are partially or completely components of a control unit of the entertainment device. Furthermore, e.g. the detection unit be installed in a housing of the entertainment device.

EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION The invention will be explained in more detail with reference to preferred embodiments and associated drawings. In the drawings show:

FIG. 1 shows, by way of example and schematically, a device for checking parallel use of entertainment devices, which is assigned to an exemplary entertainment device;

2 shows a schematic and exemplary representation of a sequence of the method for checking a parallel use of entertainment devices with the device according to the invention, wherein a decentralized, local memory unit is provided,

FIG. 3 shows a schematic and exemplary illustration of a sequence of the method for checking a parallel use of entertainment devices with the device according to the invention, wherein a central memory unit is provided,

FIG. 4 shows, in an exemplary and schematic manner, a device for checking parallel use of entertainment devices, to which several exemplary entertainment devices are assigned.

EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION

FIG. 1 shows by way of example and schematically a device 100 for checking parallel use of entertainment devices 110, in particular in the form of money and / or monetary value play equipment, gaming machines and / or betting machines. The device 100 is associated with an entertainment device 110 shown by way of example and schematically, which, in addition to other units, eg for user input, etc., comprises at least one display device 111, for example in the form of a display, LCD screen, touch screen, etc. In this case, the entertainment device 110 is usually - without active use - in a locked state or in a stand-by mode. For a use such as a game session, the entertainment device 10 must be activated or enabled by inputting biometric user data via the device 100.

For this purpose, the device 100 comprises a detection unit 101, via which predetermined biometric user data can be entered and recorded by the user. Depending on the biometric user data to be entered, this detection unit 101 can be used, for example, as a fingerprint scanner for e.g. Placing four fingers of one hand or both thumbs, designed as a recording device for one eye, both eyes or predetermined areas of the user's face.

Furthermore, the device 100 comprises a test unit 102, from which the biometric user data entered by the user via the detection unit 101 are checked for the presence of a predefined, uniquely identifiable identification feature. It can be determined by the test unit 102 whether the user enters the predetermined and always unambiguously identifiable biometric data via the detection unit 101, which have the predetermined, uniquely identifiable identification feature. Such an identification feature is, for example, an arrangement of the four fingers of a hand based on the respective finger length or finger length arrangement in a fingerprint scanner as the detection unit 101. For the four fingers of the right are clearly due to their arrangement or respective length or length sequence of the four fingers of the left Hand distinguishable. This ensures that always the four fingers of the eg right hand of the user are detected. Further unique recognition features are, for example, the relation of eye and nose in the case of iris scans or relations / presence of facial features when taking facial images as biometric user data. If the biometric user data entered by the user or captured by the detection unit 101 does not have the predetermined, uniquely identifiable identification feature, an information or error message can be generated by the test unit 102, for example. This information message can, for example, as a message via a standardized interface 105, via which the device 100 with the entertainment device 110 connectable or attachable to the entertainment device 110, at the entertainment device 110 will be sent. This information message can then be output, for example, as input help or information for the user on the display device 111 of the entertainment device 110.

Furthermore, the device 100 consists of a release unit 103. The release unit 03 compares the acquired biometric user data with already known or stored biometric user data stored for other entertainment devices 110 which are enabled or activated at the time of the current release check. These already known or stored, biometric user data can be made available, for example, via a communication interface 106 of the device 100 or queried by the device 100. The release unit 103 is also set up to initiate a release or activation of the entertainment device 110 if the acquired biometric user data does not match the already known or stored biometric user data. For this purpose, a release message or an enable signal can be sent to the entertainment device 110 via the standardized interface 105 by the release unit 103. By the release message or the release signal, the entertainment device 110 is released for active use. If a match of the recorded biometric user data with already stored biometric user data is detected by the release unit 103, the release unit 103 can, for example, generate a blocking message and / or an inhibit signal and optionally an information or error message and send it via the standardized interface 105 to the entertainment device 110 be sent. The blocking message or the blocking signal and / or the optional information or error message can be displayed, for example, to the user as information on the display device 111 of the entertainment device 110. The user may e.g. be prompted to end a parallel or simultaneous use of another entertainment device in order to use the entertainment device 10 can.

Furthermore, the device 100 comprises a memory unit 104, in which the captured, biometric user data of the current release process, for example as Release data for the currently released entertainment device 110 are stored. A storage of the recorded biometric user data and a release of the entertainment device 110 only takes place if the test unit 102 detects a presence of the predetermined, uniquely identifiable identification feature in the acquired biometric user data as well as a comparison of the acquired biometric user data with the already stored, biometric user data by the release unit 103 does not match. In this case, the memory unit 104 can be configured as a local memory unit 104, which is assigned to the respective device 100 and used by it, or the memory unit 104 is embodied as a central memory unit. In this case, a central memory unit 104 can be used, for example, by a plurality of devices 100 for the storage of the respectively acquired, biometric user data. An access to the central storage unit 104 can be made for example via the communication interface 106. For safety reasons, the storage of the biometric user data and any necessary transmission of these data, eg in the case of central storage, can also be encrypted and / or coded.

The device 100 can be embodied as a modular unit which can be connected, for example, via the standardized interface 105 to the entertainment device 110 and attached to the entertainment device 110 or can be installed in the entertainment device 110.

Alternatively, the device 100 may be integrated into the entertainment device 110, wherein, for example, the test unit 102, the release unit 103 and possibly the memory unit 104 may be installed in the entertainment device in decentralized execution or integrated into units of the entertainment device 110 such as control unit, memory, etc. , The detection unit 101 may, for example, be installed in or attached to the housing of the entertainment device 10 when integrated in the entertainment device 110. For the sake of simplicity, for example, the standardized interface 105 and the communication interface 106 may be embodied as an integrated common interface. In this case, for example, ideally an already existing connection between entertainment devices 110 can also be used for the data exchange between devices 100. A data exchange can take place, for example, via wired and / or wireless connections.

Optionally, a depot storage unit (not shown in FIG. 1) may be provided, which is ideally designed as a central depot storage unit. In this depot storage unit, when the use of the entertainment device 110 is terminated, for example, the acquired biometric user data may be shared with usage-specific data, such as data. a score and / or score at the termination time for later reuse be stored or stored on the same or on another entertainment device 110.

FIG. 2 shows an exemplary and schematic representation of a sequence of the method for checking parallel use of entertainment devices 210, 230, 250 in an exemplary group of three entertainment devices 210, 230, 250. In this case, each entertainment device 210, 230, 250 each has at least one display device 211, 231, 251

on. Furthermore, each entertainment device 210, 230, 250 each have a device

200, 220, 240 assigned to verify parallel usage. These devices 200, 220, 240 may either be e.g. be installed as a module unit on the respective entertainment device 210, 230, 250 or in the respective entertainment device 210, 230, 250 integrated or installed. For example, a first device 200 is associated with a first entertainment device 210, a second device 220 with a second entertainment device 230, and a third device 240 with a third entertainment device 250.

The devices 200, 220, 240 each have at least one detection unit

201, a check unit 202, a release unit 203, and a local storage unit 204. Furthermore, at least one standardized interface 205, via which the respective device 200, 220, 240 can be connected to the respective entertainment device 210, 230, 250, and a communication interface 206 for a data exchange between the respective devices 200, 220, 240 are provided. For the sake of simplicity and for better clarity, the units 201, 202, 203, 204 or the interfaces 205, 206 of the respective device 200, 220, 240 are provided with reference numerals only in the case of the first device 200.

A sequence of the method begins with the fact that first a clearly identifiable identification feature (eg arrangement of the fingers or finger lengths, relation of eye and nose, etc.) for those biometric user data (eg fingerprints, eye scan, face, etc.) is given, which be entered by the user for activation or release of the entertainment device 210, 230, 250. If, for example, a user wants to use the first entertainment device 20, then in a first method step a, e.g. via the display device 211 of the first entertainment device 210 prompted to enter for a release the respective predetermined biometric user data at the first device 200. The biometric user data can be input in the first method step a via the detection unit 201 of the first device 200 by the user or be detected by the detection unit 201.

In a second method step b, the recorded biometric user data are checked on the one hand by the checking unit 202 for the presence of the predetermined, uniquely identifiable identification feature. It is determined whether the required or correct biometric user data have been entered via the detection unit 201 (eg the fingerprints of the four fingers of the right hand and not the left hand, etc.). On the other hand, the captured biometric user data from the release unit 203 is compared with stored biometric user data stored by the devices 230, 250 of the further entertainment devices 230, 250 at the time of the current release process for the first entertainment device 210. A release of the first Entertainment device 210 for use is only performed in a third method step c when both the presence of the predetermined, uniquely identifiable identification feature in the acquired biometric user data is detected by the check unit 202, and a comparison of the acquired biometric user data with the already stored, biometric user data by the release unit 203 provides no match.

For this purpose, for example, in the second method step b, the test unit 202 first checks for the presence of the predetermined, uniquely identifiable identification feature. If the predetermined, uniquely identifiable identification feature is not found in the recorded biometric user data, the test unit 202 can generate, for example, an information or error message. This information or error message is e.g. transmitted via the standardized interface 205 to the first entertainment device 210 and can be displayed there on the associated display device 211 as input help or information for the user. If the predetermined, uniquely identifiable identification feature is detected in the acquired biometric user data, then the release unit 203 compares the acquired biometric user data with the already known or stored biometric user data. If a match of the recorded biometric user data with known or stored biometric user data is determined in this comparison, the release unit 203 generates a blocking message or a blocking signal and sends it to the first entertainment device 210 via the standardized interface 205. Furthermore, by the release unit 203, for example, also an information or error message can be created, which is displayed on the display device 211 of the first entertainment device 210 to the user. If the comparison of the recorded biometric user data with the already known or stored biometric user data does not match, the third method step c is used.

Alternatively, in the second method step b, however, the comparison of the recorded biometric user data with the already known or stored user th, biometric user data by the release unit 203. An examination of the recorded biometric user data for the presence of the predetermined, uniquely identifiable identification feature by the checking unit 202 is only carried out if no match is found by the enabling unit 203 when comparing the acquired biometric user data with the already known or stored biometric user data. If the predetermined, uniquely identifiable identification feature is present in the recorded biometric user data, the third method step c is used. If a match is found when comparing the recorded biometric user data with the already stored biometric user data, the checking of the recorded biometric user data by the test unit 402 is no longer performed. If the recorded biometric user data coincides with the biometric user data already stored or if the predetermined, uniquely identifiable identification feature is missing, an information or error message can be generated, for example, which is displayed to the user via the display device 211 of the first entertainment device 210. The first entertainment device 210 is not released.

In the third method step c, a release message or a release signal is generated by the release unit 203. The release message or the release signal is e.g. sent to the first entertainment device 210 via the standardized interface 205. The entertainment device 210 is thus released for active use by the user.

At approximately the same time, in a fourth method step d, the user's recorded biometric user data are stored in the memory unit 204 of the first device 200 as release data for the period of active use of the first entertainment device 210. The storage can be encrypted and / or encoded for security reasons, for example. If a check for parallel use is now performed for the second and / or third entertainment device 230, 250 during the release period of the first entertainment device 200, those in the memory unit 204 of the first device 200 may be performed stored, biometric user data from the respectively associated devices 220, 240 are queried via the communication interface 206 for the comparison in the second method step b.

Alternatively or additionally, it is also possible, for example, for the biometric user data acquired for the first entertainment device 210 as release or activation data to be transmitted to the second and third devices 220, 240 of the second and third entertainment devices 230, 250 via the communication interface 206. Transmission of the captured biometric user data can be encrypted and / or coded for security reasons. The transmitted biometric user data indicating release of the first active user entertainment device 210 may then be stored in the respective storage unit 204 of the second and third device 220, 240 for the release time of the first entertainment device 210, respectively thus locally for the comparison in the second method step b on the second or third device 220, 240 available.

For terminating the use of the first entertainment device 210, the user enters the biometric user data acquired for the release of the entertainment device 210 via the registration unit 201. The entered, biometric user data are checked for admissibility - ie the recorded biometric user data have the predetermined, uniquely identifiable identification feature and the recorded biometric user data are registered as recorded biometric user data for the first entertainment device 210 as release or activation data or stored at which the biometric user data is currently being recorded. If the biometric user data entered is permissible, for example, the release unit 203 can generate a message or a blocking signal and send it via the standardized interface 205 to the first entertainment device 210. The current usage is ended. The first entertainment device 210 is switched back to the standby mode. Furthermore, the acquired biometric user data is deleted from the storage unit 204. Are the recorded biometric If the second and third devices 220, 240 of the second and third entertainment devices 230, 250 have also been made available and stored there, the first device 200 sends a request to the second and third devices 220, 240 via the communication interface 206, for example Delete this biometric user data or send a delete command.

In the presence of a depot storage unit, the user's captured biometric user data may be transferred to the depot storage unit for later reuse, along with the usage or game specific data, prior to deletion.

For example, if the usage of the first entertainment device 210 is not properly terminated by entering the acquired biometric user data, then e.g. a corresponding message is output on the display device 211 of the first entertainment device 210. If, for example, no interaction is detected on the unlocked first entertainment device 210 within a certain, predetermined period of time, the use can be made e.g. be ended automatically. In this case, for example, the recorded, biometric user data currently stored as release or activation data for the first entertainment device 210 can be deleted from the memory unit 204 and the entertainment device 210 can be placed in the locked or standby mode.

FIG. 3 likewise shows diagrammatically and by way of example a group of three entertainment devices 310, 330, 350, each with associated display device 311, 331, 351 and respectively associated device 300, 320, 340 for checking a parallel use of the entertainment devices 310, 330, 350 As already shown in FIG. 2, three devices 300, 320, 350 have at least one detection unit 301, a test unit 302 and a release unit 303. Furthermore, at least one standardized interface 205 for connection to the respective entertainment device 310, 330, 350 and a communication interface 306 are provided in each of the devices 300, 320, 350. Alternatively, the storage of the recorded biometric user data is configured centrally in FIG. To a central memory unit 304 is provided, which can be accessed by the respective devices 300, 320, 340, for example via the communication interface 306.

For a sequence of the method or a check as to whether a user would like to use at least two entertainment devices 310, 330, 350 in parallel, first a clearly identifiable identification feature (eg arrangement of the fingers or finger lengths, relation of eye and nose, etc.) is again displayed. for those biometric user data (eg fingerprints, eye scan, face piece, etc.), which are to be entered by the user for activation or release of the entertainment device 310, 330, 350.

For an activation of a first entertainment device 310, which would like to be used by a user, the first, second and third process steps a, b, c are again run through-as already shown and described in FIG. 2. In this case, however, in the second method step b, the known or stored biometric user data for the comparison with the acquired biometric user data is released by the release unit 303, e.g. requested and received via the communication interface 306 from the central memory unit 304. A release of the first entertainment device 310 for use is again only carried out in the third method step c, if in the second method step b both the presence of the predetermined, uniquely identifiable identification feature in the acquired biometric user data and the comparison of the acquired biometric user data from the check unit 302 with the already stored, biometric user data by the release unit 203 no match is detected.

In the fourth method step d, the biometric user data, which has been detected by the detection unit 301 of the first device 300, is transmitted to the central memory unit 304, for example via the communication interface 306, almost simultaneously with the third method step c. The transmission can be encrypted and / or coded for security reasons, for example. In the central memory unit 304, the recorded biometric user data as release or activation data for the first entertainment device 310 - possibly encoded and / or encoded - are stored for the useful life of the first entertainment device 310 by the respective user. From the second and third entertainment device 330, 350 and the associated devices 320, 340 for checking a parallel use of the entertainment devices 310, 330, 350 can on the respective current release and / or activation data - ie the respectively detected, biometric user data - the first Entertainment device 310 accessed and these are used for comparison in the second step b.

In addition to the central memory unit 304, a small, local memory unit may also be provided in the respective device 300, 320, 340 for checking parallel use of entertainment devices 310, 330, 350. This storage unit can be used, for example, to also locally during the active use of the entertainment device 310, 330, 350, the current release or activation data -. to save and have access to the biometric user data collected by the current user.

To terminate the use of the first entertainment device 310, the user must again input the biometric user data acquired for the release of the first entertainment device 310 via the registration unit 301. If the biometric user data has been entered correctly, the entertainment device 310 is set by the release unit 303 in the locked state or standby mode. For example, the first device 300 sends a deletion instruction for the biometric user data stored as release data for the first entertainment device 310 to the central memory unit 304 via the communication interface 306. The corresponding biometric user data is deleted from the central storage unit 304.

In the presence of a depot storage device, the user's captured biometric user data may be shared with the user or game-specific data is transferred to the depot storage unit for later reuse. In this case, the depot storage unit can be designed, for example, as a separate storage unit, which can be accessed by the entertainment devices 310, 330, 350. However, the depot storage unit may, for example, also be embodied as a separately managed subunit of the central storage unit 304, which may not be accessed during the verification of parallel usage of entertainment devices 310, 330, 350.

FIG. 4 also shows, by way of example and schematically, a device 400 for checking parallel use of entertainment devices 410, 430, 450. This device 400 comprises at least one detection unit 401, a test unit 402, a release unit 403 and a memory unit 404. Furthermore, a standardized interface 405 for communication with entertainment devices 410, 430, 450 as well as a communication interface 406 for eg a data exchange eg with further devices 400 for checking parallel use of entertainment devices 410, 430, 450. The device 400 is associated with a plurality of exemplary entertainment devices 410, 430, 450 to verify or prevent the parallel and simultaneous use of these entertainment devices 410, 430, 450 by a user. For this purpose, the device 400 is designed as an independent module unit or as a so-called stand-alone device. The device 400 additionally has, for a selection of the entertainment device 410, 430, 450, which the user wishes to use, an input unit 407, which can identify, for example, keys and / or a touchscreen for an input. Furthermore, the device 400 can have a display unit 408 on which input aids and / or information or error messages can be output and displayed to the user. The display unit 408 can be embodied, for example, as a separate unit (eg, display, screen, etc.) or integrated into the input unit 407-for example, if a touchscreen is used for the input. The input unit 407 and the display unit 408 can be integrated, for example, in the device 400, via their own ne connections - as exemplified in Figure 4 - or connected via the communication interface 406 with the device 400.

If, for example, a user wants to use a first entertainment device 410, he is required, e.g. to input the selection of the first entertainment device 410 via the input unit 407 during or after inputting or acquiring its biometric user data. This may be done, for example, by pressing a button associated with the first entertainment device 410 of the input unit 407, by inputting a number associated with the first entertainment device 410 via the input unit 407, or by touching a symbol or number symbol associated with the first entertainment device 410 on a touchscreen 407. If the selection of the first entertainment device 410 has been input and the biometric user data of the user has been acquired by the detection unit 401, then the method for checking a parallel use of entertainment devices 410, 430, 450 according to the method steps b shown in FIGS , c and d performed. It is checked whether the user already another entertainment device 430, 450 is used or is released for this. That the checking unit 402 and the release unit 403 check whether the acquired biometric user data has the predetermined, uniquely identifiable identification feature, and whether none of the other entertainment devices 430, 450 assigned to the device 400 are or are not currently enabled for the user; whether the captured biometric user data is currently not stored in the storage unit 404. If the required biometric user data has been entered correctly and these are not stored in the memory unit 404, then the first entertainment device 410 is enabled by the release unit 403 via the standardized interface 405 for use.

The user's acquired biometric user data is stored as release data for the first entertainment gaming device 410 in the storage unit 404 for each user's life. If the use of the selected first entertainment device 410 is to be ended again, the user must reenter the biometric user data that was acquired when the selected first entertainment device 410 was released via the detection unit 401. In addition, the user may be requested, for example via the display unit 408, to input the first entertainment device 410 selected or used by the user via the input unit 407. Alternatively, the input of the selected first entertainment device 410 may be omitted if, together with the biometric user data acquired for the release of the first entertainment device 410, a device-specific identifier or the acquired biometric user data explicitly as device-specific release data in the memory unit 404 are stored. In this case, for example, the user may be prompted via the display unit 408 to confirm the termination of use on the first entertainment device 410 by an input via the input unit 407. If the biometric user data has been correctly entered by the user and the used first entertainment device 410 identified by input or by the stored data, the first entertainment device 410 from the release unit 403, for example with a disabling message or a disabling signal via the standardized interface 405 from the release unit 403 locked or standby mode. The biometric user data of the user stored as release data for the first entertainment device 410 is deleted from the storage unit 404. The user can now use the device 400 to select, for example, another tethered entertainment gaming machine 430, 450 for use and to unlock it.

In the presence of a depot storage unit, the user's captured biometric user data may also be transferred to the depot storage unit along with the usage or game-specific data prior to deletion for later reuse.

Claims

claims

1. Method for checking a parallel use of game and / or

Entertainment devices (110, 210, 230, 250, 310, 330, 350, 410, 430, 450), in particular in the form of gambling machines and / or betting machines, wherein an entertainment device (0; 210; 310; 410) is input by means of input of biometric user data is released for use, characterized in that first a uniquely identifiable identifier for the biometric user data to be entered is provided, the unique identifier identifiable use of comparable biometric user data for releasing the use of another entertainment device (230, 250, 330, 350 430, 450),

then for a release of the entertainment device (10; 210; 310; 410) biometric user data is recorded (a),

that the recorded biometric user data are checked for the presence of the predetermined, uniquely identifiable identification feature (b), that the collected biometric user data is compared with already stored biometric user data (b),

in the event of a mismatch between the acquired biometric payload and the already stored biometric user data, the entertainment device (110; 210; 310; 410) is released for use (c) and the captured biometric user data is stored (d).

A method according to claim 1, characterized in that for terminating the use of the entertainment device (110; 210; 310; 410), the biometric user data acquired for the release of the usage is reentered, and then the acquired biometric User data is deleted and the entertainment device (110; 210; 310; 410) is put into a locked state.

Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in the absence of the predetermined, uniquely identifiable identification feature and / or coincidence of the acquired biometric user data with already stored, biometric user data, an information message is output (b).

Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a display device (111; 211; 311) of the entertainment device (1 0; 210; 310) is used for an output of input aids and / or information messages (b).

Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that for the release and / or lock of the entertainment device (110; 210; 310; 410), messages are transmitted via a standardized interface (105; 205; 305; 405) to the entertainment device (110; 210; 310; 410) are sent (c).

6. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that data, in particular the acquired biometric user data by means of wired and / or wireless connections (106; 206; 306; 406) are exchanged and / or transmitted (d).

7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the captured biometric user data are stored locally (d).

8. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the captured biometric user data are stored centrally (d).

9. Device (100; 200; 300; 400) for checking parallel use of gaming and / or entertainment devices (110; 210, 230, 250; 310, 330, 350; 410, 430, 450), in particular in terms of monetary value operable gaming machines and / or betting machines, which can be unlocked for use by entering biometric user data, at least consisting of:

• a detection unit (101, 201, 301, 401) for inputting and acquiring the biometric user data

A check unit (102; 202; 302; 402) for checking for the presence of a predetermined, uniquely identifiable identifier on the acquired biometric user data, the unique identifier recognizing use of comparable biometric user data for enabling the use of another entertainment device (230; 250, 330, 350, 430, 450) • a release unit (103; 203; 303; 403) for comparing the acquired biometric user data with already stored biometric user data and for releasing an entertainment device (110; 210; 310; 410) in the event of non-matching of the acquired biometric user data with already stored ones , biometric user data

And a memory unit (104; 204; 304; 404) for storing the captured biometric user data.

The apparatus of claim 9, further comprising a standardized interface (105; 205; 305; 405) for transmitting messages to the entertainment device (110; 210; 310; 410).

1 . Device according to one of claims 9 to 10, further comprising a communication interface (106; 206; 306; 406) for exchanging and / or transmitting data, in particular the recorded biometric user data, by means of wired and / or wireless connections.

12. Device according to one of claims 9 to 11, wherein a Anzeigevorrich for an output of accessibility and / or information messages _r device (111; 211; 311) of the entertainment apparatus (110; 210; 310) is available.

13. Device according to one of claims 9 to 12, wherein the memory unit (104) is designed as a local, decentralized memory unit (204).

14. Device according to one of claims 9 to 12, wherein the memory unit (104) is designed as a central memory unit (304).

15. Device according to one of claims 9 to 14, wherein an embodiment as a modular unit (100; 200, 220, 240; 300, 320, 340), which at the sub-Shark (110, 210, 230, 250, 310, 330, 350) can be attached.

Device according to one of claims 9 to 14, wherein an embodiment is provided as a separate module unit (400), which are associated with a plurality of entertainment devices (410, 430, 450).

Apparatus according to any of claims 9 to 14, wherein integration into the entertainment device (110; 210, 230, 250; 310, 330, 350) is provided.

Entertainment apparatus (110, 210, 230, 250, 310, 330, 350), in particular in the form of gambling machines and / or betting apparatus operable in terms of monetary value, comprising a device (100, 200, 220, 240, 300, 320, 340) according to one of the claims 9 to 15 or 17.