Abstract: The invention comprises methods and apparatus for modifying or converting a gaming machine to permit fully cash-less or optional cash-less transactions in a manner which avoids changing the existing firmware or software of the gaming machine. In an optional cash-less arrangement, a player selects the form by which funds are added or paid to the machine and/or paid out by machine. The cash-less forms of payment may comprise the acceptance and/or payment of funds or value electronically to a system account, coded card or ticket, smart card, magnetic card and other non-cash elements. In one or more embodiments, the invention consists of hardware and/or software for intercepting and/or emulating any or all combinations of the electronic signals associated with the coin acceptor, cash out button, hopper, serial communication interface(s) and bill acceptor(s) associated with a gaming machine to create optional currency transfers.

Abstract: A device for dispensing prizes includes a housing having a plurality of compartments, a door attached to the housing for coving the compartments, and a lock for limiting access to the compartments. The contents of the compartments are visible from the outside. Each compartment contains a prize, such as a diamond. The housing may be part of, or linked to, a gaming device. When a player wins a game, which entitles the player to select a tangible award, the device signals this fact to the player. The player then selects a compartment by pressing an input device located on the housing. An attendant opens an external door, and inserts an electronic key into a receptacle associated with the selected compartment, and enters a required code into the key. The compartment then opens, and the player obtains the prize. The device may also include an inventory control system which preferably uses an RFID apparatus for monitoring the contents of each compartment, and for keeping records of an inventory of prizes.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for separating breathable oxygen gas from a source of gas and then humidifying the oxygen gas while preventing over humidification of the oxygen gas, the apparatus comprising a gas pathway located on a first side of a water transfer member, an oxygen gas pathway located on a second side of the water transfer member and a separator for separating the breathable oxygen gas from a gas located on the first side of the water transfer member and directing the breathable oxygen gas past the second side of the water transfer member while maintaining the pressure of the gas substantially equal to the pressure of the breathable oxygen gas to thereby humidify the breathable oxygen gas while preventing a moisture condensation in the breathable oxygen gas.