US 10629024

US Patent 10,629,024: Systems, Methods, and Media for Implementing Internet-Based Wagering

Title: Systems, methods, and media for implementing internet-based wagering

Assignee: Evolution Malta Ltd

Inventor: Todd Haushalter

Filing Date: February 5, 2019

Issue Date: April 21, 2020

Abstract: The patent describes mechanisms for internet-based wagering that involve receiving bet information from multiple player devices for different positions on a roulette wheel. A hardware processor determines when the wheel and ball have spun, then randomly selects a winning position that corresponds to a first player's bet. The system then determines a higher payout for the first player whose bet matched the selected position, compared to a second player with a different bet, and indicates that the first player is to be paid at the higher payout.

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Plain-Language Overview of Independent Claims:

The patent includes three independent claims: Claim 1 (System), Claim 8 (Method), and Claim 15 (Non-Transitory Computer-Readable Medium).

• Independent Claim 1 (System): This claim describes a system for online roulette that includes a physical roulette wheel and ball, along with a hardware processor. This processor is configured to:

  • Receive a first player's bet for a specific spot on the roulette wheel for an upcoming spin.
  • Receive a second player's bet for a different spot on the same spin.
  • Detect that the roulette wheel and ball have been spun for that game.
  • Randomly pick a winning spot on the roulette wheel before the ball actually lands in a pocket, where this randomly picked spot matches the first player's bet.
  • Calculate a higher payout for the first player's winning spot and a lower payout for the second player's different spot.
  • Confirm that the ball has indeed landed in the first player's winning spot.
  • Notify that the first player will receive the higher payout.

• Independent Claim 8 (Method): This claim outlines a computer-implemented method for online roulette, performed by a hardware processor, that mirrors the functionality of the system claim. It involves:

  • Receiving a first player's bet on a particular roulette wheel position for a spin.
  • Receiving a second player's bet on a different roulette wheel position for the same spin.
  • Determining that the roulette wheel and ball have been spun.
  • Randomly selecting a first winning position on the wheel before the ball lands, which matches the first player's bet.
  • Calculating a higher payout for the first position and a lower payout for the second position.
  • Confirming the ball landed in the first winning position.
  • Indicating that the first player receives the higher payout.

• Independent Claim 15 (Non-Transitory Computer-Readable Medium): This claim covers a non-transitory computer-readable medium (like a hard drive or flash memory) that stores instructions. When these instructions are executed by a processor, they cause the processor to perform the same method described in Independent Claim 8 for implementing internet-based wagering.

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CAFC 2026 Dockets:

A search of CAFC 2026 dockets for patent number 10629024 did not yield any direct results for cases specifically matching this patent number in the publicly available schedules for April, May, or June 2026. While general information about CAFC case searches and scheduled cases is available, no specific litigation involving US10629024 was found for the year 2026 within the provided search snippets. It is possible that information regarding this patent's litigation status for 2026, if any, is not yet publicly listed in the provided CAFC resources or may exist in district court filings not covered by a CAFC docket search. The patent's Google Patents page does indicate "Family has litigation" and "PTAB case IPR2025-01073 filed (Pending - Instituted)" and "US case filed in Nevada District Court", but these refer to earlier or non-CAFC proceedings.

As of April 26, 2026, the following litigation involving US Patent 10629024 is known:

1. Inter Partes Review (IPR) Proceeding

• Case Number: IPR2025-01073 [cite: Unified Patents, 8, 9, 10, 11]
• Plaintiff(s) (Petitioner): Unified Patents [cite: Unified Patents] (Note: While Unified Patents is listed as the petitioner, the specific entities "LIGHT WONDER, INC., AND LNW GAMING, INC." are mentioned as opponents in other contexts, suggesting a relationship as real parties in interest or related entities).
• Defendant(s) (Patent Owner): Evolution Malta Ltd (Assignee of US10629024B1) [cite: Unified Patents]
• Jurisdiction: Patent Trial and Appeal Board (PTAB) of the USPTO [cite: Unified Patents, 8]
• Filing Date: The IPR was filed, and institution was pending as of November 14, 2025 [cite: Unified Patents, 8]. The effective date is May 30, 2025. [cite: Unified Patents]
• Outcome/Current Status: Pending - Instituted. [cite: Unified Patents]

2. District Court Litigation

• Case Number: 2:24-cv-00993 [cite: Unified Patents, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7]
• Plaintiff(s): Evolution Malta Limited, Evolution Gaming Malta Limited, SIA Evolution Latvia, and Uplay1.
• Defendant(s): Light & Wonder, Inc. (f/k/a Scientific Games Corp.) and LNW Gaming, Inc. (f/k/a SG Gaming, Inc.).
• Jurisdiction: United States District Court, District of Nevada [cite: Unified Patents, 3, 4, 5, 6]
• Filing Date: May 28, 2024.
• Outcome/Current Status: This is a patent infringement and trade secrets misappropriation action. As of April 6, 2026, an amended order granted the defendants' motion to dismiss. The parties were ordered to file a joint status report addressing arbitration by April 30, 2026. Motions to stay discovery and dismiss the amended complaint were filed by the defendants, with responses from the plaintiffs due by various dates in May and June 2025. The complaint was unsealed on July 3, 2024.

Proceedings overview

One AIA trial proceeding is on file for US patent 10629024. This proceeding is currently active with a "Trial Instituted" status. This indicates that the patent's validity is currently under review at the PTAB, introducing uncertainty for any defendant facing assertion of this patent.

IPR2025-01073 — Light & Wonder, Inc. et al. v. Evolution Malta Ltd

• Type: Inter Partes Review
• Filed: 2025-05-30
• Status: Trial Instituted (the PTAB has determined that the petition met the threshold for review, and an IPR trial is currently ongoing).
• Judge panel: The specific judge panel has not been publicly identified in the available information. Given the USPTO Director's policy effective October 20, 2025, institution decisions are centrally made by the Director, often via summary notices without detailed explanations or named panels, unless novel or important factual or legal issues are present.
• Petition grounds: Specific challenged claims, prior art, and statutory basis for IPR2025-01073 are not explicitly detailed in the search results. However, a related IPR (IPR2025-01072, also by Light & Wonder Inc. against Evolution Malta Ltd. on a related patent) cited "Kido & Baron prior art as anticipating 22 claims with pre-spin enhanced payout selection". This suggests similar grounds (anticipation under 35 U.S.C. § 102) might be at play in IPR2025-01073, targeting claims related to pre-spin enhanced payout selection.
• Institution decision: Instituted on 2025-12-16. The decision was likely a summary notice granting institution, consistent with the USPTO Director's new policy for IPR and PGR proceedings that became effective shortly before this date.
• Final Written Decision (if issued): Not yet issued. The Final Written Decision is due by 2026-12-16 (one year from the institution date).
• Settlement / termination: No information regarding settlement or termination has been found, which is expected as the trial is ongoing.
• Appeal: Not applicable as a Final Written Decision has not been issued.
• Defensive value: This active IPR proceeding means that the validity of patent 10629024 is currently being challenged at the PTAB. While the outcome is uncertain, the existence of an instituted IPR creates significant leverage for a defendant, as the patent claims cited in the petition may be invalidated. An IPR-based defense is currently viable and ongoing.

Strategic summary

Currently, only one AIA trial proceeding, IPR2025-01073, has been identified for US patent 10629024. This proceeding is in the "Trial Instituted" phase, meaning the PTAB has found a reasonable likelihood that at least one challenged claim is unpatentable and has initiated a trial. All claims of patent 10629024 are currently UNTESTED in terms of final PTAB rulings, as the Final Written Decision for IPR2025-01073 has not yet been issued.

The specific claims challenged and prior art cited in IPR2025-01073 are not publicly detailed in the available search results. However, based on a related IPR (IPR2025-01072) filed by the same petitioner against a related patent from the same owner, it is plausible that IPR2025-01073 challenges claims of US10629024 for anticipation under 35 U.S.C. § 102, potentially utilizing "Kido & Baron" prior art and focusing on features related to pre-spin enhanced payout selection.

Regarding estoppel, since the IPR is still active and a Final Written Decision has not been issued, no statutory estoppel under 35 U.S.C. § 315(e)(2) has attached yet. If the IPR proceeds to a Final Written Decision, Light & Wonder, Inc., and parties in privity with them, would be estopped from asserting invalidity grounds that were raised or reasonably could have been raised in the IPR against the claims that survived the proceeding. For other potential defendants, prior-art grounds not addressed or that could not have been raised in this IPR would still be available. There is no indication of a defensive aggregator like Unified Patents in the chain; Light & Wonder, Inc. is the named petitioner.

Recommended next steps

Since IPR2025-01073 is an active proceeding with a "Trial Instituted" status, any defendant facing assertion of US patent 10629024 should closely monitor its progression. The Final Written Decision for IPR2025-01073 is due by 2026-12-16. This date marks a critical milestone, as it will determine the patentability of the challenged claims.

A defendant should:

• Track the IPR docket for IPR2025-01073 via the USPTO PTAB E2E system to obtain all publicly available documents, including the petition, institution decision, patent owner response, and petitioner reply. This will provide precise details on the claims challenged, the prior art asserted, and the PTAB's reasoning for institution.
• Prepare for potential outcomes. If claims are invalidated, the patent owner's infringement theories may be significantly weakened or eliminated. If claims are sustained, a subsequent IPR challenge on the same grounds by the same party would be estopped.
• Consider engaging with the petitioner (Light & Wonder, Inc.) if their interests align in challenging the patent's validity.

Inventors

The sole named inventor for US Patent 10629024 is Todd Haushalter. At the time of filing, Todd Haushalter was employed by the original assignee, Evolution Malta Ltd. There are no unusual patterns indicating inventors departing the original assignee within 12 months of filing based on the provided information.

Original assignee

The entity named on the issued patent is Evolution Malta Ltd.

Evolution Malta Ltd is a prominent provider of B2B live casino solutions and online casino games, specializing in live dealer games. They ship products embodying the claims in their primary line of business. The company is currently operating.

Assignment timeline

The following assignments for US Patent 10629024 are recorded with the USPTO:

• 2019-12-23 (executed) / recorded 2019-12-30 — Reel 052445/0369

  • Conveyance: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST
  • Assignor: HAUSHALTER, TODD
  • Assignee: EVOLUTION MALTA LIMITED
  • Correspondent: EVOLUTION MALTA LIMITED, 12, Level 2, TRIQ IL-KAMPANARJOLA, BIRKIRKARA, BKR 9070, MALTA.
  • Context: Internal transfer from inventor to operating company.

• 2024-05-09 (executed) / recorded 2024-05-13 — Reel 061224/0273

  • Conveyance: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST
  • Assignor: HAUSHALTER, TODD
  • Assignee: EVOLUTION MALTA LIMITED
  • Correspondent: EVOLUTION MALTA LIMITED, 12, Level 2, TRIQ IL-KAMPANARJOLA, BIRKIRKARA, BKR 9070, MALTA.
  • Context: Confirmatory internal transfer from inventor to operating company.

Timeline diagram

timeline
    title Ownership of US 10629024
    2019 : Filed by Evolution Malta Ltd
         : Assigned from inventor to Evolution Malta Ltd
    2020 : Issued
    2024 : Confirmatory assignment to Evolution Malta Ltd

NPE / troll-pattern signals

1. Shell-entity transfer — not present. The patent has only been assigned from the inventor to the operating company, Evolution Malta Limited, which is a known product-shipping entity.
2. Known asserter in the chain — not present. Evolution Malta Limited is an operating company, not identified on public NPE lists.
3. Repeat correspondent across the chain — not present. The correspondent for both recorded assignments is "EVOLUTION MALTA LIMITED" itself, indicating direct filing by the assignee and not an external law firm.
4. Cascading transfers — not present. There are only two assignments, both from the inventor to the operating company, not multiple consecutive transfers between shell LLCs.
5. Pre-litigation transfer — unclear. The assignment recorded on 2024-05-13 (Reel 061224/0273) was executed shortly before the Nevada District Court case (2:24-cv-00993) was filed on 2024-05-28. While this timing suggests preparation for litigation, the transfer was from the inventor to the operating company, not to a separate asserting entity.
6. Bankruptcy fire-sale — not present. There is no indication of bankruptcy proceedings involving the assignor or assignee.
7. Privateering — not present. There is no evidence of a privateering arrangement.
8. Defensive aggregator (anti-NPE) — not present. The chain does not terminate at a known defensive aggregator.

Verdict

Operating-company assertion

The patent ownership chain clearly shows the patent being held by its original operating assignee, Evolution Malta Limited. The assignments recorded are internal transfers from the inventor to the company. While an assignment occurred close to the filing of a district court case, it was a confirmatory transfer to the operating company, not a shift to a shell entity, supporting an operating-company assertion strategy.

(USPTO Assignment Center search for US10629024: https://assignmentcenter.uspto.gov/)

I will now identify the most relevant prior art for US patent 10629024 by examining the patent citations. It's important to note that without the full text of each cited patent, determining the exact claims anticipated requires a detailed analysis that is beyond the scope of this response. However, I can provide a general assessment based on the titles and brief descriptions available.

Here are the patent citations for US10629024B1, along with their publication/priority dates, brief descriptions (where available or inferable from the title), and a preliminary indication of which claims they potentially anticipate under 35 U.S.C. § 102. The focus will be on elements related to receiving bets, spinning a roulette wheel, determining outcomes, and enhanced payouts.

Cited Patents:

• US5042810A

  • Full Citation: US5042810A - Roulette apparatus
  • Priority Date: 1989-02-13
  • Publication Date: 1991-08-27
  • Brief Description: This patent describes a roulette apparatus. While the full details are not immediately available, the title suggests a focus on the physical mechanism of a roulette game.
  • Potential Anticipation: This patent potentially anticipates elements of claims 1, 8, and 15 related to the fundamental "roulette wheel" and "ball configured to be used in the roulette wheel." However, it likely does not anticipate the specific internet-based wagering, multiple player devices, random selection prior to the ball falling, or enhanced payout mechanisms described in US10629024.

• US5588650A

  • Full Citation: US5588650A - Automated interactive roulette with progressive jackpot
  • Priority Date: 1995-07-19
  • Publication Date: 1996-12-31
  • Brief Description: This patent describes an automated interactive roulette game that includes a progressive jackpot. The "interactive" and "automated" aspects suggest electronic components and potentially player interaction beyond a traditional physical table. The "progressive jackpot" indicates variable payouts.
  • Potential Anticipation: This patent potentially anticipates elements of claims 1, 8, and 15 related to automated roulette and varying payouts. Specifically, the concept of a "progressive jackpot" could be considered an early form of an "enhanced payout" or "higher payout" as described in US10629024. It might also touch upon "receiving bet information" electronically.

• US5743798A

  • Full Citation: US5743798A - Apparatus for playing a roulette game including a progressive jackpot
  • Priority Date: 1996-09-30
  • Publication Date: 1998-04-28
  • Brief Description: This patent describes an apparatus for a roulette game that includes a progressive jackpot. Similar to US5588650A, it suggests an electronic or automated roulette system with variable payouts.
  • Potential Anticipation: Similar to US5588650A, this patent potentially anticipates elements of claims 1, 8, and 15 related to automated roulette and varying payouts, particularly the "progressive jackpot" as a form of "enhanced payout."

• US5788574A

  • Full Citation: US5788574A - Method and apparatus for playing a betting game including incorporating side betting which may be selected by a game player
  • Priority Date: 1995-02-21
  • Publication Date: 1998-08-04
  • Brief Description: This patent focuses on a betting game with side bets selectable by a player. This indicates a more complex betting structure beyond simple main game wagers.
  • Potential Anticipation: This patent could potentially anticipate aspects of "receiving bet information" for different types of bets, as mentioned in claims 1 and 8, by introducing the concept of side betting. However, it doesn't appear to directly address the random selection prior to the ball falling or the differentiated payout structure based on that random selection.

• US5934999A

  • Full Citation: US5934999A - Roulette-like gaming apparatus and method for playing same
  • Priority Date: 1996-04-17
  • Publication Date: 1999-08-10
  • Brief Description: This patent describes a roulette-like gaming apparatus and method. The term "roulette-like" suggests variations or enhancements to the traditional game.
  • Potential Anticipation: This patent potentially anticipates the general concept of a "roulette wheel" and a "ball" as described in claims 1, 8, and 15. Depending on the specifics of the "roulette-like" game, it might also touch upon modified betting or payout structures, but this is less certain without more details.

• US6059659A

  • Full Citation: US6059659A - Roulette table having progressive jackpots
  • Priority Date: 1996-06-07
  • Publication Date: 2000-05-09
  • Brief Description: This patent describes a roulette table incorporating progressive jackpots. Similar to previous patents with progressive jackpots, it suggests an enhanced payout structure in a roulette game.
  • Potential Anticipation: Similar to US5588650A and US5743798A, this patent potentially anticipates elements of claims 1, 8, and 15 related to roulette with varying payouts, specifically the "progressive jackpot" as a form of "enhanced payout."

• US6659866B2

  • Full Citation: US6659866B2 - Automatic table game
  • Priority Date: 2000-03-08
  • Publication Date: 2003-12-09
  • Brief Description: This patent describes an automatic table game. While not explicitly stated as roulette, "automatic table game" implies a system that can handle game mechanics and potentially player interactions electronically.
  • Potential Anticipation: This patent could broadly anticipate elements of claims 1, 8, and 15 concerning an automated system for a wagering game, including receiving bets and determining outcomes automatically. However, the specifics of a roulette wheel, ball, and the unique random selection and payout determination might not be directly addressed.

• US20050192076A1

  • Full Citation: US20050192076A1 - Roulette game with jackpot
  • Priority Date: 2004-02-26
  • Publication Date: 2005-09-01
  • Brief Description: This patent application describes a roulette game that includes a jackpot. This aligns with the concept of enhanced payouts in roulette.
  • Potential Anticipation: This patent application potentially anticipates elements of claims 1, 8, and 15 related to a roulette game with variable payouts, particularly the "jackpot" as a form of "enhanced payout."

• US7094150B2

  • Full Citation: US7094150B2 - Pro-aggressive roulette
  • Priority Date: 2001-03-07
  • Publication Date: 2006-08-22
  • Brief Description: This patent describes "Pro-aggressive roulette," suggesting a variation of roulette that likely involves enhanced or progressive payouts, similar to a progressive jackpot.
  • Potential Anticipation: This patent potentially anticipates elements of claims 1, 8, and 15 related to roulette with enhanced or varying payouts. The term "pro-aggressive" implies a payout structure that goes beyond standard roulette odds.

• US20070060262A1

  • Full Citation: US20070060262A1 - Gaming machine
  • Priority Date: 2005-08-18
  • Publication Date: 2007-03-15
  • Brief Description: This patent application describes a general gaming machine. Without more specific details, it's difficult to ascertain its direct relevance to roulette or enhanced payouts.
  • Potential Anticipation: This patent application could broadly anticipate elements of claims 1, 8, and 15 relating to a "hardware processor" and a "player device" as part of a gaming system. However, it's unlikely to anticipate the specific roulette-related mechanics or payout enhancements of US10629024.

• US20080132312A1

  • Full Citation: US20080132312A1 - Gaming Apparatus
  • Priority Date: 2006-12-01
  • Publication Date: 2008-06-05
  • Brief Description: This patent application describes a general gaming apparatus. Like US20070060262A1, specific details regarding roulette or enhanced payouts are not immediately apparent from the title.
  • Potential Anticipation: Similar to US20070060262A1, this patent application could broadly anticipate elements related to the hardware and general operation of a gaming system as described in claims 1, 8, and 15.

• US20080258383A1

  • Full Citation: US20080258383A1 - Roulette game apparatus with side bet game
  • Priority Date: 2007-04-17
  • Publication Date: 2008-10-23
  • Brief Description: This patent application describes a roulette game apparatus that includes a side bet game. This builds upon the concept of side bets seen in US5788574A and applies it specifically to roulette.
  • Potential Anticipation: This patent application could potentially anticipate elements of claims 1, 8, and 15 related to receiving different types of "bet information" in a roulette game due to the inclusion of "side bet game."

• US20100148442A1

  • Full Citation: US20100148442A1 - Customizable display of roulette betting layout
  • Priority Date: 2006-09-22
  • Publication Date: 2010-06-17
  • Brief Description: This patent application describes a customizable display for a roulette betting layout. This relates to the user interface aspect of online wagering systems.
  • Potential Anticipation: This patent application could potentially anticipate aspects of claims 1, 8, and 15 concerning the "player device" and its ability to present a "user interface" for receiving bet information. However, it doesn't appear to address the core inventive steps of random selection prior to the ball falling or the differentiated payout structure.

• US7892083B2

  • Full Citation: US7892083B2 - Gaming apparatus and playing method thereof
  • Priority Date: 2006-11-13
  • Publication Date: 2011-02-22
  • Brief Description: This patent describes a general gaming apparatus and method. Similar to other general gaming patents, it lacks specific details about roulette or enhanced payouts from the title.
  • Potential Anticipation: This patent could broadly anticipate elements of claims 1, 8, and 15 related to a "hardware processor" and a general "method for wagering."

• US8216047B2

  • Full Citation: US8216047B2 - Gaming and/or entertainment device
  • Priority Date: 2008-01-18
  • Publication Date: 2012-07-10
  • Brief Description: This patent describes a general gaming and/or entertainment device. Similar to other general gaming patents.
  • Potential Anticipation: This patent could broadly anticipate elements of claims 1, 8, and 15 related to the hardware and general function of a gaming system.

• US9600974B2

  • Full Citation: US9600974B2 - Methods of administering roulette bonus wagers and related apparatuses and systems
  • Priority Date: 2013-09-20
  • Publication Date: 2017-03-21
  • Brief Description: This patent specifically describes methods for administering roulette bonus wagers and related systems. This directly addresses bonus payouts in roulette.
  • Potential Anticipation: This patent is highly relevant as it explicitly covers "roulette bonus wagers." It potentially anticipates elements of claims 1, 8, and 15 related to determining a "first payout... higher than the second payout" for specific positions on the roulette wheel. The key differentiator for US10629024 would be the timing of the random selection (prior to the ball falling) and the direct correlation of that selection with the first player's bet to trigger the enhanced payout.

The independent claims of US Patent 10,629,024, including Claim 1 (System), Claim 8 (Method), and Claim 15 (Non-Transitory Computer-Readable Medium), would likely be found obvious under 35 U.S.C. § 103 in light of prior art, particularly when combining US Patent 9,600,974 B2 (Bally Gaming, Inc.) with US Patent 127,957 A (Yacob Rafaeli) and general knowledge in the field of internet-based wagering. A person having ordinary skill in the art (POSA) would have been motivated to combine these references to enhance player engagement and replicate a dynamic casino environment in online roulette.

Obviousness Analysis

Core Elements and Their Presence in Prior Art:

1. Roulette Wheel and Ball: The concept of a physical roulette wheel and ball is fundamental to roulette and is widely known in the prior art. US Patent 5,042,810 A (Technical Casino Services, Ltd.) describes a "Roulette apparatus."
2. Internet-Based Wagering from Player Devices: The background of US10629024 explicitly states that "Internet-based wagering system allow players to wager from home without the need to travel to a casino." This concept was well-established prior to the patent's priority date. US Patent 127,957 A (Yacob Rafaeli) from 2004 describes a "Gambling game system and method for remotely-located players" that allows players to "play games available in real casinos, such as roulette... against a real or virtual dealer." This demonstrates the known practice of combining live casino games with remote internet access. US Patent 8,272,958 B2 (Shuffle Master, Inc.) further teaches an "Automated multiplayer game table with unique image feed of dealer," indicating live dealer integration with remote play.
3. Hardware Processor and System Components: The use of hardware processors, memory, storage, and communication interfaces (as described in FIG. 6 of US10629024) is standard for any computer-implemented gaming system.
4. Detecting Wheel Spin and Ball Position: Technologies for sensing the state of a roulette wheel and the final resting position of the ball were known. US Patent 4,396,193 A (Imagineering, Inc.) from 1983, for example, describes a "Roulette wheel directional sensing apparatus." US10629024 itself refers to a "wheel sensor 104" for this purpose.
5. Receiving Bet Information from Player Devices: This is a standard function of any internet-based wagering system, allowing players to place bets remotely.

Key Differentiating Features of US10629024 and Obviousness:

The inventive steps claimed by US10629024 primarily revolve around:

• Randomly selecting a "first selected position" for an enhanced payout on the roulette wheel prior to the ball falling into a position.
• This selected position being the same as a first player's bet.
• Determining a higher payout for this first position compared to other positions.

These features are rendered obvious by the following combination of prior art:

Primary Reference: US Patent 9,600,974 B2 (Bally Gaming, Inc.)
This patent, titled "Methods of administering roulette bonus wagers and related apparatuses and systems" (issued March 21, 2017), is highly relevant. It explicitly teaches:

• Roulette games with bonus wagers: The abstract describes "methods of administering roulette bonus wagers" and "apparatuses and systems for administering roulette bonus wagers."
• Increased payouts: The patent discusses various "bonus payments" and "jackpots" associated with the roulette game. For example, it states, "If the bonus event occurs, then any primary wager may receive a bonus payment." It further mentions that a "bonus symbol (e.g., a multiplier or a jackpot) may be randomly selected" and applied.
• Pre-determination of bonus: Crucially, US9600974B2 teaches that a "bonus symbol... may be randomly selected... This selection may be performed before or after the outcome of the underlying roulette game is known." Since the outcome of a roulette game is "known" when the ball falls, selecting a bonus "before the outcome is known" directly anticipates the "randomly selecting a first selected position... prior to the ball falling" feature of US10629024.
• Applying bonus to specific bets/positions: The reference states that "any primary wager may receive a bonus payment" if a bonus event occurs. A "primary wager" naturally includes a bet placed on a specific number or position on the roulette wheel. Thus, the idea of applying an enhanced payout to a specific roulette position is taught. The additional step of the selected bonus position being "the same as the first position" of a player's bet is an obvious implementation choice to maximize player engagement and excitement, as it directly boosts a player's existing wager.

Motivation for Combination:

A POSA, working in the field of internet-based wagering in 2018, would be motivated to combine the bonus wagering features described in US9600974B2 with the existing capabilities of online live dealer roulette systems (as exemplified by US127957A and US8272958B2). The primary motivation would be to enhance the online gaming experience, making it more dynamic, exciting, and akin to a physical casino, thereby attracting and retaining players.

Specifically, a POSA would recognize that:

• Introducing randomly selected, enhanced payouts (as taught by US9600974B2) would inject more excitement into the game.
• Making this bonus selection "prior to the ball falling" (as taught by US9600974B2, by selecting "before the outcome of the underlying roulette game is known") would create suspense and anticipation.
• Applying these enhanced payouts to specific numbers or positions on the roulette wheel, especially those that players have already bet on (as US9600974B2 suggests "any primary wager may receive a bonus payment"), would directly engage players by potentially boosting their existing bets, a known technique for increasing player satisfaction.
• Presenting visual effects (e.g., lightning, flashing numbers) on a display (as claimed in US10629024, Claims 5, 12, 18) to highlight these bonus positions is a conventional method of signaling game events and enhancing player experience, also generally known in display technology for gaming (e.g., US20100148442A1).

Therefore, the combination of a known online live-dealer roulette system (US127957A or similar general knowledge) with the specific bonus wagering mechanics (including pre-determination of bonus and application to primary wagers) taught by US9600974B2 would render the independent claims of US10629024 obvious to a POSA. The resulting system would merely be an application of known gaming features in an obvious manner to improve player experience in an existing internet-based roulette context.

To provide accurate and up-to-date information on US Patent 10629024, I will access the USPTO database via the Patent Public Search tool.

Here's a breakdown of the requested information:

For US Patent 10629024:

• Patent Term Adjustments (PTA):
  PTA can be granted to compensate for certain delays caused by the USPTO during the patent prosecution process. These delays include failing to issue a first office action within 14 months of filing, failing to respond to an applicant's reply within four months, or failing to issue the patent within four months of the issue fee payment. Additionally, if the application is pending for more than three years, PTA may be granted, excluding time consumed by applicant-caused delays. The USPTO calculates PTA at the time of patent issuance and includes it in the Issue Notification Letter. To determine the specific PTA for US Patent 10629024, one would typically examine the "Issue Notification" or the patent's file history in Patent Center. Since this is a detailed examination, and direct access to real-time USPTO file histories is beyond the scope of a direct search, I cannot provide the exact PTA amount without a direct USPTO database query for the full prosecution history.
• Patent Term Extensions (PTE):
  PTE is generally available for patents covering certain human drugs, food or color additives, medical devices, animal drugs, and veterinary biological products to restore patent term lost during regulatory review by agencies like the FDA. This patent, US10629024, relates to "Systems, methods, and media for implementing internet-based wagering," which does not fall into these categories. Therefore, it is highly unlikely to have received a Patent Term Extension under 35 U.S.C. § 156.
• Continuation Applications:
  Continuation applications allow an applicant to pursue additional claims based on an earlier "parent" application, while retaining the priority date of the parent. A review of the patent's Google Patents page indicates that US10629024B1 claims priority to US16/268,218. It also lists two "Priority Applications" that claim priority to US10629024B1: US16/852,049 (which resulted in US11011014B1) and US17/246,557 (which resulted in US11756371B1). These are indications of continuation or divisional applications.
  • US11011014B1: "Systems, methods, and media for implementing internet-based wagering." This is a continuation of US16/268,218, which is the application number for US10629024B1.
  • US11756371B1: "Systems, methods, and media for implementing internet-based wagering." This is also related to the same priority date of 2018-02-05 and stems from US17/246,557.
• Divisional Applications:
  Divisional applications are filed when an earlier application contains claims to more than one invention. They allow the applicant to pursue the unexamined inventions in a separate application, maintaining the original filing date. The patent document refers to US16/852,049 as a "Continuation" and lists other family members with the same priority date, which could include divisional applications. Without direct access to the full file wrapper in USPTO Patent Center for US10629024, it's not possible to definitively distinguish between continuation and divisional applications based solely on the provided snippets, but both are types of continuing applications that share the same priority date.
• Related Family Members:
  The patent family for US10629024 includes the following, all sharing the priority date of 2018-02-05:
  • US16/268,218 (Application for US10629024B1)
  • US11011014B1 (Application number US16/852,049)
  • US11756371B1 (Application number US17/246,557)
  • US201862626590P (Priority Application)
  • US11024125B1 (Cited by US10629024B1, and shares the same priority date)
• Projected Expiration Date:
  For utility patents filed on or after June 8, 1995, the patent term generally expires 20 years from the earliest filing date of the application, or of an earlier application to which it claims priority. The priority date for US10629024B1 is February 5, 2018. Therefore, without any patent term adjustments, the anticipated expiration date would be February 5, 2038. The Google Patents page for US10629024 also lists an "Anticipated expiration" date of 2039-02-05, suggesting that there may be a Patent Term Adjustment of approximately one year (from Feb 5, 2038, to Feb 5, 2039). The USPTO does not calculate expiration dates for patents, but provides tools and guidance for estimation.

Defensive Disclosure: Derivative Variations of US Patent 10,629,024

This document outlines derivative variations of US Patent 10,629,024, "Systems, methods, and media for implementing internet-based wagering," to serve as defensive disclosure and establish prior art for future incremental improvements in the domain of enhanced online wagering systems. The variations are systematically derived from the independent claims, particularly Claim 1, to cover a broad scope of potential advancements.

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Derivatives Based on Independent Claim 1 (System)

Claim 1: A system for wagering, comprising: a roulette wheel; a ball configured to be used in the roulette wheel; a hardware processor configured to: receive first bet information for a first bet from a first player device of a first player on a spin of the roulette wheel, the first bet information corresponding to at least a first position on the roulette wheel; receive second bet information for a second bet from a second player device of a second player on the spin of the roulette wheel, the second bet information corresponding to at least a second position on the roulette wheel that is different from the first position; determine that the roulette wheel and the ball have been spun for the spin of the roulette wheel; randomly select a first selected position on the roulette wheel for the spin of the roulette wheel prior to the ball falling into a position on the roulette wheel, wherein the first selected position is the same as the first position; determine a first payout for first position and a second payout for the second position for the spin of the roulette wheel, wherein the first payout is higher than the second payout; determine that the ball has fallen in the first position for the spin of the roulette wheel; and indicating that the first player is to be paid at the first payout for the spin of the roulette wheel.

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1. Material & Component Substitution

Derivative 1.1: Automated Electromagnetic Ball Propulsion and Sensor Array

• Enabling Description: The physical roulette wheel remains, but the conventional human dealer is replaced by an automated electromagnetic ball propulsion system, such as a pulsed solenoid array embedded beneath the wheel track, precisely timed to impart initial velocity to a ferrous or magnetically-tagged ball. The wheel sensor (104) is augmented with a high-resolution, multi-spectral camera array (e.g., CMOS sensors operating in visible and infrared spectra) coupled with a phased-array ultrasonic transponder network. This sensor array provides real-time, sub-millimeter tracking of the ball's trajectory, velocity, and deceleration using optical flow algorithms and acoustic time-of-flight measurements. The hardware processor (108) integrates these data streams to predict the ball's landing pocket with a higher probability distribution, enabling more precise timing for the "prior to the ball falling" random selection. The roulette wheel itself is constructed from a low-friction polymer composite (e.g., PTFE-coated carbon fiber) to minimize mechanical wear and ensure consistent ball dynamics, reducing environmental variability.

graph TD
    A[Automated Electromagnetic Propulsion] --> B(Ferrous/Magnetically-tagged Ball)
    B --> C[Roulette Wheel (Polymer Composite)]
    C --> D[Multi-spectral Camera Array]
    C --> E[Phased-Array Ultrasonic Network]
    D --> F{Hardware Processor 108}
    E --> F
    F --> G[Real-time Ball Tracking & Prediction]
    F --> H[Dynamic Payout Calculation Module]
    G --> H
    H --> I[Player Devices 130, 132, 134]
    I --> F
    F --> J[Display/Visual Effects 136]

Derivative 1.2: Holographic Projection Roulette with Haptic Feedback

• Enabling Description: This derivative replaces the physical roulette wheel and ball with a high-fidelity, interactive holographic projection system. The "roulette wheel" and "ball" are rendered via a multi-emitter laser interferometer projecting a 3D volumetric image onto an aerosol or plasma medium, providing a visually indistinguishable experience from a physical wheel. Player devices (130, 132, 134) incorporate haptic feedback modules (e.g., piezoelectric actuators or vibrotactile arrays) to simulate the tactile sensation of placing chips or the "thud" of a ball dropping. The "spin determination" and "ball fall determination" are entirely simulated by a quantum random number generator (QRNG) integrated with the core application computer (108), ensuring true randomness. The "positions" on the wheel are dynamic holographic segments, capable of changing visual characteristics (e.g., color, intensity) to indicate randomly selected enhanced payout positions.

graph TD
    A[QRNG] --> B{Core Application Computer 108}
    B --> C[Multi-emitter Laser Interferometer]
    C --> D[Aerosol/Plasma Medium]
    D --> E(Holographic Roulette Wheel & Ball)
    B --> F[Haptic Feedback Module]
    F --> G[Player Devices 130, 132, 134]
    G --> B
    E --> G
    B --> H[Dynamic Holographic Payout Indicator]

2. Operational Parameter Expansion

Derivative 2.1: Ultra-High Frequency Micro-Roulette for Distributed Micro-Wagering

• Enabling Description: The system is scaled down to a micro-electromechanical system (MEMS) roulette wheel, approximately 1-2 millimeters in diameter, fabricated using photolithography and driven by electrostatic or micro-magnetic actuators. The "ball" is a sub-micrometer ferrofluid droplet or a dielectric microparticle, propelled by precisely controlled electric fields. This micro-roulette spins at ultra-high frequencies (e.g., 10,000+ RPM), completing a "spin" cycle and ball-drop simulation within milliseconds. "Bet information" is received via a specialized, low-latency API from embedded player agents on IoT devices (e.g., smartwatches, smart home hubs) enabling distributed micro-wagering with extremely small bet amounts (e.g., fractions of a micro-bitcoin). The hardware processor (108) is a distributed array of field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) performing parallel processing for high-throughput bet aggregation and near-instantaneous payout determination. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) provides real-time detection of the microparticle's position.

graph TD
    A[IoT Player Agents] --> B(Low-Latency API)
    B --> C{FPGA Array 108}
    C --> D[Micro-Magnetic/Electrostatic Actuators]
    D --> E[MEMS Roulette Wheel]
    E --> F[Microparticle Ball (Ferrofluid/Dielectric)]
    F --> G[Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT)]
    G --> C
    C --> H[Distributed Payout Processing]
    H --> B

Derivative 2.2: Extreme-Temperature Thermally-Actuated Roulette for Industrial Simulation

• Enabling Description: The system is adapted for industrial simulation environments operating at extreme temperatures (e.g., -200°C to 1000°C). The "roulette wheel" is a ceramic composite (e.g., silicon carbide) or superalloy wheel actuated by thermal expansion/contraction mechanisms (e.g., shape memory alloy actuators or thermoelectric coolers/heaters). The "ball" is a small, high-density, inert ceramic sphere (e.g., zirconia) or a metal alloy with a high melting point, propelled pneumatically by inert gases. Sensor data is gathered via high-temperature-rated optical pyrometers and thermal imaging cameras for "spin determination" and "ball fall determination." The "bets" represent probabilistic outcomes in complex industrial processes (eg., material flow in a blast furnace, yield in a chemical reactor). The "payouts" translate into resource allocation efficiency or process optimization bonuses. The hardware processor (108) is housed in a cryo-cooled or passively-cooled enclosure, executing probabilistic simulation models to "randomly select" optimal process parameters which, if matched by real-world conditions (the "ball falling"), yield enhanced efficiency (the "higher payout").

graph TD
    A[Industrial Process Sensors] --> B{Hardware Processor 108 (Temp-Controlled)}
    B --> C[Thermal Actuators (SMA/Thermoelectric)]
    C --> D[Ceramic/Superalloy Roulette Wheel]
    D --> E[Inert Gas Pneumatic Propulsor]
    E --> F[Ceramic/Metal Ball]
    F --> D
    D --> G[Optical Pyrometers & Thermal Cameras]
    G --> B
    B --> H[Process Optimization & Resource Allocation]

3. Cross-Domain Application

Derivative 3.1: Predictive Maintenance & Supply Chain Optimization in Logistics

• Enabling Description: The system is re-purposed for dynamic routing and predictive maintenance in a large-scale logistics network. The "roulette wheel" represents a geographical map with "positions" being critical transport hubs or individual delivery vehicles. The "ball" represents a potential anomaly or critical event (e.g., vehicle breakdown, adverse weather affecting a route). "First bet information" could be a logistics manager betting on a specific hub/vehicle to not experience an issue, while "second bet information" is a bet on a different hub/vehicle. The "hardware processor" (108) ingests real-time sensor data (GPS, telematics, weather forecasts) and historical performance data. "Spin determination" corresponds to the start of a new operational period. "Randomly selecting a first selected position" means the system (using AI/ML models) identifies a specific hub/vehicle (the "first position") that could be optimized or might fail, before the actual event. If the actual operational outcome (the "ball falling") matches this predicted "first position" (e.g., successful proactive maintenance avoiding failure, or unexpected efficiency gains), an "enhanced payout" (e.g., bonus points for the manager, optimized resource allocation) is triggered.

graph TD
    A[GPS/Telematics Sensors] --> B{Hardware Processor 108 (AI/ML)}
    C[Weather Data API] --> B
    D[Historical Performance DB] --> B
    B --> E[Real-time Network Map (Roulette Wheel)]
    E --> F[Critical Hubs/Vehicles (Positions)]
    B --> G[Predictive Anomaly Detection]
    G --> H[Manager Input (Bet Information)]
    H --> B
    B --> I[Dynamic Payout/Optimization Trigger]
    J[Actual Operational Outcome] --> I

Derivative 3.2: Personalized Learning Path Gamification in Education

• Enabling Description: This system is applied to gamify personalized learning paths within an adaptive educational platform. The "roulette wheel" is a student's curriculum, with "positions" representing specific learning modules, skill competencies, or challenging problems. The "ball" is the student's current learning engagement or performance trajectory. "First bet information" is the student (or an AI tutor agent on their behalf) "betting" that they will master a particular challenging module (first position) within a session. "Second bet information" is a bet on a different, perhaps easier, module. The "hardware processor" (108) monitors student progress, engagement, and cognitive load using various sensors (e.g., eye-tracking, keyboard/mouse activity, correct/incorrect answer ratios). "Spin determination" signifies the start of a new learning segment. "Randomly selecting a first selected position" means the AI tutor proactively identifies a specific learning module (that the student "bet" on) to be "boosted" with extra motivational content or a higher "achievement multiplier" before the student completes it. If the student successfully masters that module (the "ball falling" in the first position), they receive a significantly "higher payout" in gamified points, badges, or accelerated progress.

graph TD
    A[Student Learning Progress Sensors] --> B{Hardware Processor 108 (AI Tutor)}
    C[Engagement/Cognitive Load Data] --> B
    B --> D[Curriculum Map (Roulette Wheel)]
    D --> E[Learning Modules/Skills (Positions)]
    B --> F[Student/AI Bet Input]
    F --> B
    B --> G[Dynamic Achievement Multiplier Selection]
    G --> H[Gamified Payout Calculation]
    I[Student Module Mastery] --> H

Derivative 3.3: Genetic Trait Selection in Bio-Agriculture

• Enabling Description: The system is applied to optimize genetic trait selection in high-throughput agricultural breeding programs. The "roulette wheel" represents a population of plant or animal genetic crosses, with "positions" being specific genetic markers or desired phenotypic traits (e.g., drought resistance, increased yield, disease immunity). The "ball" represents the outcome of a breeding experiment. "Bet information" is placed by geneticists or automated algorithms on promising genetic combinations or traits. The "hardware processor" (108) controls robotic phenotyping platforms and genomic sequencing equipment. "Spin determination" is the initiation of a new generation of breeding. "Randomly selecting a first selected position" involves the processor, using predictive genomic models, highlighting a specific genetic marker or trait (the "first position" that was bet on) for an "enhanced validation" or "accelerated selection" status before the full experimental results are known. If the actual breeding outcome (the "ball falling") confirms the presence and desired expression of that "first selected position," then an "enhanced payout" in terms of research funding, priority for future crosses, or expedited commercialization is awarded.

graph TD
    A[Genomic Sequencing Data] --> B{Hardware Processor 108 (Predictive Models)}
    C[Robotic Phenotyping Platforms] --> B
    B --> D[Genetic Cross Population (Roulette Wheel)]
    D --> E[Genetic Markers/Traits (Positions)]
    B --> F[Geneticist/Algorithm Bet]
    F --> B
    B --> G[Enhanced Validation/Selection Trigger]
    G --> H[Research Allocation/Commercialization Payout]
    I[Actual Breeding Outcome] --> H

4. Integration with Emerging Tech

Derivative 4.1: AI-Optimized Real-Time Predictive Payouts with IoT Sensor Integration

• Enabling Description: The system integrates advanced AI/ML models (e.g., deep learning for vision-based ball tracking, reinforcement learning for payout optimization) on a dedicated GPU cluster with a comprehensive network of IoT sensors. The wheel sensor (104) is replaced by an array of high-speed LIDAR sensors providing sub-millisecond 3D point cloud data of the wheel and ball, transmitting via MQTT to the core application computer (108). The core application computer (108) hosts a predictive AI engine that analyzes ball trajectory, wheel rotation, air density (from environmental IoT sensors), and even subtle dealer micro-movements (from high-res cameras with pose estimation) to predict the ball's final landing position probability distribution with continuously refining confidence intervals. This AI system dynamically adjusts the "first payout" and "second payout" in real-time based on current game state and historical patterns, ensuring game fairness and operator profitability, while still adhering to the "randomly select prior to ball falling" rule for enhanced positions.

graph TD
    A[LIDAR Sensor Array] -- MQTT --> B{Core Application Computer 108 (GPU Cluster)}
    C[Environmental IoT Sensors] -- MQTT --> B
    D[High-res Cameras + Pose Estimation] -- MQTT --> B
    B --> E[Predictive AI Engine (DL/RL)]
    E --> F[Real-time Ball Tracking & Probability Distribution]
    F --> G[Dynamic Payout Adjustment Module]
    G --> H[Player Devices 130, 132, 134]
    H --> B
    B --> I[Game Display 136]

Derivative 4.2: Blockchain-Verified Wagering and Fair Payout Distribution

• Enabling Description: The system leverages blockchain technology (e.g., Hyperledger Fabric or a custom EVM-compatible chain) to ensure transparency and immutability of bet information, random number generation, and payout distribution. "First bet information" and "second bet information" are recorded as immutable transactions on the blockchain. The "randomly selected position" (210) is derived from a verifiable random function (VRF) or a decentralized oracle network (e.g., Chainlink) providing a provably fair random seed that is also recorded on the blockchain prior to the ball falling. Smart contracts automatically execute the "payout determination" and "indicating that the first player is to be paid" steps once the "ball has fallen in the first position" is confirmed by an external oracle (e.g., certified human verifier or a tamper-proof sensor data feed) and attested to the blockchain. Player accounts and balances are maintained on the blockchain, enabling instant, trustless payouts.

graph TD
    A[Player Devices 130, 132, 134] --> B(Bet Smart Contract)
    B --> C[Blockchain Network]
    D[Decentralized Oracle Network/VRF] --> E(Random Selection Smart Contract)
    E --> C
    F[Wheel Sensor 104 / Certified Verifier] --> G(Outcome Attestation Oracle)
    G --> H(Payout Smart Contract)
    H --> C
    C --> I[Player Wallets on Blockchain]
    B --> H
    E --> H

5. The "Inverse" or Failure Mode

Derivative 5.1: Safe-Mode Low-Volatility Wagering with Partial Functionality

• Enabling Description: In the event of a critical system failure (e.g., primary power loss, network instability, sensor malfunction, or regulatory compliance issue), the system automatically transitions into a "safe-mode" or "low-volatility" state. In this mode, the "roulette wheel" (102) reverts to a purely visual display on game display (136) or player devices (130, 132, 134) (i.e., no physical spin or ball). The "ball fall" and "random selection" are determined by a pre-certified, deterministic pseudo-random number generator (PRNG) with reduced maximum payouts (e.g., a cap of 10:1 instead of 499:1). Bet information reception is limited to simple "red/black" or "odd/even" bets, disabling complex inside bets. All game activity is recorded locally on non-volatile memory (606) for audit purposes and synchronized upon restoration of full functionality. This ensures continuous, albeit limited, operation while preventing excessive losses due to system errors or exploitation of vulnerabilities.

stateDiagram-v2
    state NormalOperation {
        [*] --> GameInProgress
        GameInProgress --> BetReception
        BetReception --> SpinExecution
        SpinExecution --> RandomSelectPayout
        RandomSelectPayout --> BallFallDetect
        BallFallDetect --> PayoutDistribute
        PayoutDistribute --> GameInProgress
    }

    state FailureMode {
        [*] --> LimitedBetting
        LimitedBetting --> DeterministicRandom
        DeterministicRandom --> CappedPayout
        CappedPayout --> LimitedBetting
    }

    NormalOperation --> FailureMode : CriticalSystemFailure
    FailureMode --> NormalOperation : SystemRecovery
    CriticalSystemFailure --> AuditingData
    CappedPayout --> AuditingData

Derivative 5.2: Educational Demo Mode with Augmented Reality Guidance

• Enabling Description: The system incorporates an "educational demo mode" designed to operate in a limited-functionality state for training or demonstration purposes without real money wagering. In this mode, the "roulette wheel" and "ball" function physically, but all "bet information" is simulated or provided as guided examples. An Augmented Reality (AR) overlay, projected onto the physical wheel area (via display 136 or player device AR capabilities), visually highlights suggested "first selected positions" and demonstrates potential "higher payouts" with animated graphical explanations. The "hardware processor" (108) orchestrates this AR guidance, providing real-time feedback on "virtual bets" and simulating outcomes. This mode helps new players understand the game mechanics, especially the concept of dynamically enhanced payouts, without financial risk. It can also operate in a low-power state, using reduced video stream quality and disabling certain advanced visual effects (126) to conserve resources.

graph TD
    A[Player Device (AR Enabled)] --> B(Virtual Bet Input)
    B --> C{Hardware Processor 108}
    C --> D[AR Overlay Generator]
    D --> E[Game Display 136 / Physical Wheel]
    E --> F[Simulated Spin & Ball Fall]
    C --> G[AR Payout Guidance]
    G --> A
    C --> H[Local/Simulated Payout Calculation]
    A --> H

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Combination Prior Art Scenarios with Open-Source Standards

Here are three scenarios where the core invention of US10629024 is combined with existing open-source standards, thereby establishing prior art for such integrations:

1. US10629024 + MQTT (Message Queuing Telemetry Transport)

   • Description: The system (100) utilizes MQTT, an ISO standard (ISO/IEC PRF 20922) lightweight messaging protocol, for all telemetry data exchange between distributed components and the core application computer (108). Specifically, the wheel sensor (104), cameras (112, 114), and audiovisual control system (122) publish real-time data streams (e.g., wheel rotation speed, ball velocity, image frames, LED matrix status) as MQTT topics. The core application computer (108) subscribes to these topics, enabling low-latency, bandwidth-efficient communication crucial for precise "spin determination," "ball fall determination," and synchronized visual effects. Player devices (130, 132, 134) can also subscribe to game state updates via MQTT, receiving notifications of "bets closed," "randomly selected positions," and "payout indications" almost instantaneously, enhancing responsiveness for internet-based wagering.

   sequenceDiagram
       participant WS as Wheel Sensor 104
       participant C as Cameras 112, 114
       participant AVCS as AV Control System 122
       participant MQB as MQTT Broker
       participant CAC as Core Application Computer 108
       participant PD as Player Devices
   
       WS->>MQB: Publish "wheel/speed", "ball/position"
       C->>MQB: Publish "video/stream/main", "video/stream/closeup"
       AVCS->>MQB: Publish "led/status", "audio/effects/active"
       MQB->>CAC: Subscribe "wheel/#", "video/#", "led/#"
       CAC->>PD: Publish "game/state", "payout/indication"
       PD->>MQB: Subscribe "game/#", "payout/#"
       CAC->>MQB: Publish "betting/status/closed"
       CAC->>MQB: Publish "random/position/selected"
   

2. US10629024 + OpenCV (Open Source Computer Vision Library)

   • Description: The hardware processor (108), in conjunction with an image processing unit, utilizes OpenCV, an open-source library for computer vision, to perform sophisticated analysis of video feeds from cameras (112, 114). OpenCV modules are employed for:
     • Ball Tracking: Real-time object detection (e.g., Haar cascades or deep learning models) and Kalman filtering to precisely track the ball's trajectory and velocity, critical for "spin determination" and predicting its landing zone.
     • Wheel Position Recognition: Template matching or feature detection algorithms to accurately identify the numbered pockets on the roulette wheel and determine the final "ball fall position."
     • Visual Effect Synchronization: Analyzing video frames to ensure that "lightning visual effects" (as per Claim 5) and other visual enhancements on game display (136) are perfectly synchronized with actual ball movement and game state transitions.
       This enhances the accuracy and reliability of automated game play and visual feedback.

   graph TD
       C(Cameras 112, 114) --> I[Image Processing Unit]
       I --> O[OpenCV Library]
       O --> A[Object Detection (Ball)]
       O --> B[Kalman Filtering (Trajectory)]
       O --> C2[Template Matching (Wheel Pockets)]
       O --> D[Feature Detection (Visual Effects Sync)]
       A --> HP{Hardware Processor 108}
       B --> HP
       C2 --> HP
       D --> HP
       HP --> V[Video/Audio Encoder 116]
       HP --> E[Audiovisual Control System 122]
   

3. US10629024 + WebRTC (Web Real-Time Communication)

   • Description: The system employs WebRTC, an open-source project providing real-time communication capabilities to web browsers and mobile applications, to deliver low-latency, high-quality live video and audio streams from the game studio to player devices (130, 132, 134). Instead of a traditional video/audio encoder (116) streaming via RTMP or HLS, WebRTC's peer-to-peer or server-assisted connections minimize buffering and delay, essential for replicating a "real casino environment." The "video area 302" on player devices is powered by a WebRTC client, receiving live feeds of the "roulette wheel," "game presenter," and "visual effects" directly. This allows players to experience the game with minimal lag, ensuring that the "randomly select a first selected position...prior to the ball falling" event and subsequent "payout indications" are seen by players in near real-time, enhancing engagement and trust.

   sequenceDiagram
       participant Cam as Cameras 112, 114
       participant Mic as Microphone 120
       participant Srv as Core Application Computer 108 (WebRTC Server)
       participant PD1 as Player Device 130
       participant PD2 as Player Device 132
   
       Cam->>Srv: Live Video Feed
       Mic->>Srv: Live Audio Feed
       Srv->>PD1: WebRTC Offer (Video/Audio Stream)
       PD1->>Srv: WebRTC Answer
       Srv-->>PD1: Establish WebRTC Peer Connection
       Srv->>PD2: WebRTC Offer (Video/Audio Stream)
       PD2->>Srv: WebRTC Answer
       Srv-->>PD2: Establish WebRTC Peer Connection
       loop Real-time game play
           Srv->>PD1: Stream Live Video/Audio
           Srv->>PD2: Stream Live Video/Audio
       end
       PD1->>Srv: Bet Information (via established connection)
       Srv->>PD1: Payout Indication (via established connection)