Abstract: A printed security-enhanced document, printing method, and system for ensuring that any printing defects present in the variable indicia also occur in the background on the document protected. By ensuring that random printing defects in the variable indicia also appear in the same document's background, detection of the printing defects becomes more readily apparent.

Abstract: A security-enhanced document with a removable SOC is provided that is compatible with process color digital imaging, method and system for producing the document enhances production, and expands the aesthetics of the documents.

Abstract: A security-enhanced document, such as an instant lottery ticket, includes a substrate. Indicia is provided on the substrate, and a scratch-off-coating (SOC) layer is applied over the indicia to maintain the indicia unreadable until removal of the SOC layer. The indicia is printed onto the substrate as pigmented particles. One or more opacity film layers may be provided over or under the pigmented particle indicia.

Abstract: A printing method or system for making a security-enhanced scratch-off document and the document so made are disclosed. The security-enhanced document includes a substrate, variable indicia, at least one other printed portion having background noise, and a scratch-off-coating layer applied over the variable indicia to maintain the variable indicia unreadable until the scratch-off-coating is removed by being scratched off. The variable indicia includes ink having a signal-to-noise ratio relative to the background ink noise of the document's at least one other printed portion, such that the variable indicia are unreadable with reference to the at least one other printed portion when the scratch-off-coating remains intact. Additionally, digitally imaging countermeasures to unassisted and assisted mechanical SOC lift are also disclosed. These methods and systems enhance the overall appearance of the ticket as well as potentially reduce the time and setup costs between print runs.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a secure substrate provides a print-ready surface for printing scratch-off products and eliminates the need to print lower security layers for protecting against attempts to view hidden indicia information. In one embodiment, a secure substrate comprises applying microperforations to a dyed substrate that meets a predefined transmission optical density to resist an attempt to reduce the opacity of the dyed substrate by delamination. In another embodiment, a secure substrate comprises applying a lower opacity layer and a lower background layer on a substrate to provide a secure substrate that meets a predefined transmission optical density. In another embodiment, a secure substrate comprises applying a lower opacity layer on a substrate, applying a reflective coating, and applying a lower background layer over the reflective coating to provide a secure substrate that meets a predefined transmission optical density.

Abstract: A method of playing an instant scratch game lottery ticket. Each ticket provides a printed grid comprised of adjoining edge features that provide at least two enclosed symbol areas. Each edge feature is labeled by a unique indicium and covered in a transparent film. Each enclosed symbol area contains a prize symbol that is covered in an opaque film. Also provided are player indicia covered with an opaque film that is removed to reveal the player indicia. The transparent film covering each labeled edge feature that matches a player indicium is then removed. If the edge features that have been removed are adjoined and provide a fully enclosed area, the prize symbol(s) in the fully enclosed area is/are revealed by removing the opaque film covering the prize symbol(s). Any revealed prizes are provided as an award to the player.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to apparatuses to facilitate the playing of lottery games. More specifically, the present invention relates to apparatuses for marking or puncturing lottery play slips.

Abstract: An array of interconnected lottery tickets includes a first lottery ticket and a a second lottery ticket connected to the first lottery ticket along a common side edge. The common side edge has a connected, manually detachable region that holds the first and second lottery tickets in an interconnected configuration, and a completely disconnected region.

Abstract: A lottery instant-game ticket and method of making same. On a substrate is placed a first set of game indicia including a first set of game symbols, and a second set of indicia larger than the first set of game indicia and including a second set of game symbols, and includes any winning symbol. A subset of the second set of game indicia with each symbol including a non-winning indicator. The first set and second of game indicia are covered with a removable covering, with the covering having position indicators positioned substantially over each of the first set of game indicia, and identical game symbols positioned substantially over a corresponding identical game symbol of the second set of game indicia such that removal of the identical game symbol reveals the identical game symbol of the second set of game indicia and any non-winning indicator, if present.

Abstract: Scratch-off game cards, systems and methods of play for pre-picking winners of real-time sporting events before events take place. Each player scratches off a number of scratch-off portions from scratch off sheets to determine teams picked before the sporting event begins. Players list selected racing teams and start positions on cards before events begin. After the event concludes, players list final position numbers for the teams. Players sum up their initial position numbers to determine initial position sum scores, and players sum up their finish position numbers to determine finish position scores. The player with the lowest initial and or final position sum score wins game. Optionally, the player with the winner of the race on the player's game card wins another portion of the game. In the case of a sponsored race, the rules and method of play can vary.

Abstract: A method of creating a substrate containing multiple holographic images. The method includes dividing the substrate into a plurality of equally sized print surfaces and placing a holographic image on each of the print surfaces. Wherein the holographic image is placed at substantially the same location on each of the print surfaces.

Abstract: A lottery instant-game ticket and method of making same. On a substrate is placed a first set of game indicia including a first set of game symbols, and a second set of indicia larger than the first set of game indicia and including a second set of game symbols, and includes any winning symbol. A subset of the second set of game indicia with each symbol including a non-winning indicator. The first set and second of game indicia are covered with a removable covering, with the covering having position indicators positioned substantially over each of the first set of game indicia, and identical game symbols positioned substantially over a corresponding identical game symbol of the second set of game indicia such that removal of the identical game symbol reveals the identical game symbol of the second set of game indicia and any non-winning indicator, if present.

Abstract: This invention relates to a predetermined bonus feature for use in conjunction with a designated underlying game of chance, wherein the individual game card and master game card or master bonus game card include symbols that predetermine and identify which player(s) is eligible to win the bonus prize upon the occurrence of another event. A predetermined winning bonus symbol on a master game card or master bonus game card made known prior to or after conclusion of play of the designated underlying game. Players who have a symbol on their individual game card that matches the predetermined winning bonus symbol know, in advance, that they are eligible to participate to win the bonus prize. The winner(s) of the designated underlying game will win the bonus prize if s/he is able to match a symbol on the individual game card with the winning bonus symbol.

Abstract: A distributed manufacturing and distribution process for lottery tickets is disclosed. The manufacturing/vending system comprises a ticket manufacturing server and one or more vending devices located at remote sites. Each vending device is operatively coupled for communication with the server, normally via a network connection. Each vending devices is further equipped with blank media and printing means, so that a customer is able to purchase on-demand tickets from a vending device in communication with the server. Additionally, the vending devices may be configured as electronic aid to display the results of the purchased lottery tickets in entertaining ways to the customer.

Abstract: A distributed manufacturing and distribution process for lottery tickets is disclosed. The manufacturing/vending system comprises a ticket manufacturing server and one or more vending devices located at remote sites. Each vending device is operatively coupled for communication with the server, normally via a network connection. Each vending devices is further equipped with blank media and printing means, so that a customer is able to purchase on-demand tickets from a vending device in communication with the server. Additionally, the vending devices may be configured as electronic aid to display the results of the purchased lottery tickets in entertaining ways to the customer.

Abstract: Described are a number of mechanisms that can reduce transaction costs and increase the economic viability of a number of products. Included is a combination instant lottery ticket and debit card that makes it possible to issue prepaid debit cards having a relatively low monetary value. Also included is a combination on-line ticket/receipt and debit card that can automate the prize paying process, simplifying the retailer's responsibilities while reducing the potential for fraud. Various cash flow and authentication techniques such as age and location verification, nano payment methods and spam filters based on these mechanisms are also described. In addition, instant lottery tickets, and in particular, losing tickets can be provided with a small residual value by placing account information on the ticket. In another version, a lottery ticket can be combined with a payment card that operates as a closed payment system whereby the payment card can only be used with a specified vendor.

Abstract: A method for facilitating multi-lingual play of a game on a single game card includes providing a game play area on the game card. A first set of game instructions are provided on the game card printed in a first language. A second set of the game instructions in a different second printed language over superimposed over the first set of game instructions. An indicator is provided on the game card to convey that the first set of game instructions are present and accessible by removing the second set of game instructions. A player has the option to read the game instructions in either or both of the first or second printed languages.

Abstract: Systems and methods of distributing, dispensing and validating game tickets provide for the use of radio frequency identifiers (RFIDS). Game ticket consumables may also be tracked with RFIDS. Ticket data such as game numbers, void if removed numbers, theme descriptions, place styles, price points and player account information can be stored to a memory of a game ticket, where the ticket is capable of transmitting the ticket data as an RF signal. Approaches also provide for the use of RFIDS in game sponsor/ticket printer facilities, ticket warehouse facilities and ticket destruction facilities.

Abstract: A scratch-off document may include a substrate bearing a toner image and a scratch-off layer covering the printed content. The scratch-off layer may include a mass of a first solid ink and a mass of a second solid ink printed over the first solid ink in a distraction pattern. The toner image is formed of a toner that adheres to the substrate, while the scratch-off layer is made of a wax-based or other solid ink that may be removed from the substrate by scratching without removing the toner image. The distraction pattern includes varying pile heights that distract a viewer from any pile height variations that may exist in the toner image.

Abstract: Disclosed is an image forming apparatus including: an image input unit to input image data; a chase pattern generating unit to generate a chase pattern in which a plurality of chase pattern dots, each of which has a plurality of print dots, are arranged within a predetermined block; an overlay unit to overlay the chase pattern onto the image data; an image forming unit to form an image on a sheet based on the image data onto which the chase pattern is overlaid; and an overlaid position control unit to control an overlaid position of the chase pattern on the image data so as to shift the overlaid position by a shift amount that is equal to or more than a width of each of the chase pattern dots, when forming images on a plurality of sheets.

Abstract: A game ticket is disclosed. The game ticket includes a first and second indicia concealed by a removable opaque covering and indicating visually whether the game ticket is a winning ticket. The first indicia is located with a game play area. The second indicia includes a first player key located within the game player area and a second player key located in a customer key area, wherein whether the game ticket is a winning ticket is determinable upon a comparison of the first and second player keys. A method and apparatus for using the game ticket is also disclosed.

Abstract: Postage stamp assembly includes a backing substrate having a front face and indicia relating to a game of chance on the front face, a postage stamp having a printed postage value thereon, and adhesive for removably adhering the postage stamp to the front face of the backing substrate. The indicia relating to a game of chance is exposed only when the postage stamp is removed from the backing substrate. The postage stamps are sold at a price higher than the printed postage value and money from the difference between the printed postage value of the postage stamps and the price thereof forms a pool, at least a part of which is used for prizes for the game of chance. Part of the pool might also be used for a charitable purpose or societal benefit, and an indication to this effect printed on the postage stamps.

Abstract: This invention relates to a predetermined bonus feature for use in conjunction with a designated underlying game of chance, wherein the individual game card and master game card or master bonus game card include symbols that predetermine and identify which player(s) is eligible to win the bonus prize upon the occurrence of another event. A predetermined winning bonus symbol on a master game card or master bonus game card made known prior to or after conclusion of play of the designated underlying game. Players who have a symbol on their individual game card that matches the predetermined winning bonus symbol know, in advance, that they are eligible to participate to win the bonus prize. The winner(s) of the designated underlying game will win the bonus prize if s/he is able to match a symbol on the individual game card with the winning bonus symbol.

Abstract: The card game combines aspects of Texas hold'em and raffle drawings. A plurality of mutually different cards or car representations is provided to each player as scratch-off or tear-off tickets, or cards in an envelope. A common multiple card hand is provided for player to form optimum hands with their card representations. The maximum number of player hands in a single distinct set, with each hand having mutually distinct cards therein, is determined by the number of cards in each hand and the number of distinct cards in the deck. The game may be played by a large group in lieu of conventional raffle ticket drawings, and provides for elimination of identical cards between each player hand and the common hand. At least one winning hand occurs with every game, as winning is comparative between players rather than absolute as in conventional raffle play.

Abstract: In a row of lottery tickets each ticket has variable image printing game data printed onto a base layer on a substrate and a series of covering layers including at least one sealing layer and at least one scratch-off layer. Onto the scratch-off layer is a multi-color digital image for each ticket using a variable image printing system. At least part of the scratch-off layer can be left free from printed overlay graphics and the multi-color digital image can be printed subsequently at a different location from the ticket manufacturing location. The graphics can indicate different values for different ones of the tickets. The tickets in the row can be of different lengths and the graphics can be different for different length ones of the tickets.

Abstract: A system and method are provided for playing a game of chance. The game of chance may include, for example, a lottery-type game using a pull-tab ticket. A result of the game of chance is revealed to a player in another medium. In one example, the result is revealed during multiple game instances of one or more online games.

Abstract: A lottery game incorporates player direction in determining the outcome of the game and allows a player to reveal one or more elements in a lottery game area according to rules associated with the lottery game. According to one embodiment of the invention, the player may expose initially any element of the lottery game area, and every exposable element includes an indication of at least two other exposable adjacent elements that may next be selected. The player's progression through the lottery game is not predetermined such that the player has significant ability or flexibility to control or direct the play of the lottery game and to influence or direct the outcome of the lottery game (e.g., embodied by the card).

Abstract: A system and method for providing an authentication code across a network for use in authentication of documents, such as printed lottery tickets. The system includes document-printing terminals that include a key that is used in a mathematical function with the bet information for a specific-game entry to generate a document code that is sent to a central server. The central server stores the received document code and then generates an authentication code for the document desired to be printed at the terminal, and sends the authentication code back to the terminal for printing on the issued document. The authentication code can be a further mathematical processing of the document code. Verification of the document occurs from comparison of the authentication code on the document and stored authentication and/or document codes at the server.

Abstract: Systems and methods of distributing, dispensing and validating game tickets provide for the use of radio frequency identifiers (RFIDS). Game ticket consumables may also be tracked with RFIDS. Ticket data such as game numbers, void if removed numbers, theme descriptions, place styles, price points and player account information can be stored to a memory of a game ticket, where the ticket is capable of transmitting the ticket data as an RF signal. Approaches also provide for the use of RFIDS in game sponsor/ticket printer facilities, ticket warehouse facilities and ticket destruction facilities.

Abstract: A set of game cards, such as bingo cards (10) which each display an arrangement of game indicia, such as bingo numbers (27) are configured for use in combination with jackpot tickets (12) in a game of chance, such as bingo or keno, in which numbers are drawn at random from a pool. The jackpot tickets provide chances for a winner of a bingo game played with the bingo cards to be eligible for a jackpot award. The jackpot tickets (12) each include a set of jackpot numbers (28) selected from the same pool as the bingo numbers (27). These are compared with the bingo numbers on the winning bingo card to determine whether the winning card is eligible for a jackpot award.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a secret scratch sticker capable of secretly delivering a message to only a person who receives the message and a method of manufacturing the same. The secret scratch sticker comprises a transparent film sheet 110 having an adhesion portion formed on one surface thereof; a first scratching part 120 laminated on the other surface of the film sheet 110 so as to be stripped off with a fingernail or a coin; and a second scratching part 130 laminated on the first scratching part 120 so as to be stripped off together with the first scratching part 120, the second scratching part having colors. According to the present invention, a user can deliver a message to only a desired person, and thus the message can be hidden from other people.

Abstract: A scratch off lottery game card is that includes a substrate on which a plurality of game indicia printed on a game indicia area in an M×N matrix and a plurality of player indicia printed on a player indicia area. The game indicia are preferably grouped by different identifier. If the game identified by an identifier have matched to the player indicia, the player wins a prize.

Abstract: A game ticket is disclosed. The game ticket includes a first and second indicia concealed by a removable opaque covering and indicating visually whether the game ticket is a winning ticket. The first indicia is located with a game play area. The second indicia includes a first player key located within the game player area and a second player key located in a customer key area, wherein whether the game ticket is a winning ticket is determinable upon a comparison of the first and second player keys. A method and apparatus for using the game ticket is also disclosed.

Abstract: The disclosure describes a computer-implemented method of providing an event related game. The method includes receiving event data associated with a media broadcast at a computer, generating a printable game set, and providing the printable game set in an electronic format configured for printing by a user. The printable game set includes at least one game card and a set of trade tickets. The at least one game card includes a list of game events associated with the media broadcast. Each trade ticket of the set of trade tickets identifies a game event.

Abstract: Methods, systems and apparatus are described for producing lottery products and conducting lottery games. In one embodiment, a method for producing a lottery product comprises producing a lottery sub-product that includes a concealed indication of a redemption value of a different lottery sub-product. In one embodiment, a storybook allows a player to win by matching words from a paytable to revealable dialog or other story elements on a respective page of the storybook.

Abstract: Described is a player activated game system, particularly adapted for playing instant lottery type games, that includes a game device having a computer containing at least one game, an electronic display and a card interface adapted to receive a game card having data that represents a particular game outcome such that connection of the card to the interface can result the game being played by the device with the particular outcome displayed on the display.

Abstract: Gaming machines, gaming systems, and methods for awarding time-sensitive tickets in a gaming environment are disclosed herein. According to one embodiment, a gaming machine includes a game display for presenting a game having one or more winning game outcomes. The gaming machine also includes one or more network interfaces that is in communication with a ticket database that provides time-sensitive tickets. The gaming machine also includes a game controller in communication with the game display and the network interfaces. The game controller awards one or more time-sensitive tickets in response to one or more triggering events.

Abstract: A game of chance playable by two or more players and a method of playing the game, the game of chance comprising a gaming ticket (2) including removable first portions (8) removable by a first player to reveal first indicia and removable second portions (10) removable by a second player to reveal second indicia, wherein the first and second players compete against each other by removing the respective removable first indicia until a winner of the game is determined.

Abstract: A distributed manufacturing and distribution process for lottery tickets is disclosed. The manufacturing/vending system comprises a ticket manufacturing server and one or more vending devices located at remote sites. Each vending device is operatively coupled for communication with the server, normally via a network connection. Each vending devices is further equipped with blank media and printing means, so that a customer is able to purchase on-demand tickets from a vending device in communication with the server. Additionally, the vending devices may be configured as electronic aid to display the results of the purchased lottery tickets in entertaining ways to the customer.

Abstract: A tactile scratch media apparatus and method are disclosed. In one embodiment, an apparatus includes a scratch media having a tactile data pattern to provide information to a user and a scratch region on the scratch media having a plurality of layers that conceal the tactile data pattern. The tactile data pattern may include a raised tactile data and/or an indented tactile data. The raised tactile data and the indented tactile data may be a braille character, an alphanumerical character and/or a tangible data. The surface edge of the raised tactile data and/or the indented tactile data of the tactile data pattern may be curved. The tactile data pattern may be arranged according to an overlapping pattern arrangement and/or a non-overlapping pattern arrangement. The arrangement of the overlapping pattern arrangement and the non-overlapping pattern arrangement may be based on a combination of a print data and the raised tactile data and/or the indented tactile data.

Abstract: According to one embodiment, a player may accumulate occurrences of a bonus symbol over at least two outcomes. The player may be allowed a bonus if a running count of the occurrences is at least equal to a predetermined number. According to another embodiment, a player may accumulate occurrences of matched lottery numbers over a plurality of lottery outcomes (e.g., lottery number drawings) and/or a plurality of lottery entries. The player may be allowed a bonus if a running count of occurrences of matched numbers is at least equal to a predetermined number.

Abstract: A lottery ticket and continuous process of forming the same in which the front and rear surfaces of the lottery ticket and provided with scratch-off lottery games which may be accessed by the player without first having to remove a break-open window.

Abstract: A method for playing a game of chance and system for facilitating the play of the game are disclosed, in which an initial ticket containing initial game play information is received, a second ticket containing additional game play information is received, and the combination of the initial game play information and the additional game play information determines if the second ticket is a winning ticket.

Abstract: A lottery ticket has printed thereon a matrix of nine rows and nine columns defining eighty one locations some of which are pre-marked with numbers from 1 to 9 and is arranged such that the player can select and enter the numbers in open locations to provide an arrangement of the numbers in which the marked locations and the open locations contain a number selected from the numbers 1 to 9 where all columns and all rows have the nine locations thereof each containing one of the numbers 1 to 9 with each number appearing once only. Prizes are awarded, according to a set of rules relating to the lottery ticket, depending on the appearance of at least one of the numbers in at least one of the locations or depending on the total number of correct rows or columns or other matrix shape of nine locations.

Abstract: A print monitoring system comprising a printer that generates a printed object that comprises a) a printed area located on a substrate, the printed area having a predetermined width and defining a two-dimensional matrix having a plurality of rows and a plurality of columns; b) print indicia printed on the substrate within the two-dimensional matrix of said printed area such that at least one row of the plurality of rows contains print indicia that are separated by a maximum width; and c) at least one print validation symbol printed on the substrate in a predetermined first validation print area. The system can also comprise an image capture device configured to read at least the at least one validation symbol and a controller in communication with the image capture device that compares the at least one validation symbol to a predetermined at least one validation symbol and makes quality control decisions based on the comparison.

Abstract: A scratch layer transfer sheet comprising a substrate film and a transferable scratch layer disposed on one surface of the substrate film, the transferable scratch layer comprising a hiding layer, being able to be thermally transferred to the print surface of a transfer-receiving material and being able to be removed from the print surface by scratching it after it is transferred. The scratch layer transfer sheet is overlapped on a transfer-receiving material such that the transferable scratch layer faces the print surface of the transfer-receiving material to transfer said transferable scratch layer to the print surface by heating.

Abstract: A distributed manufacturing and distribution process for lottery tickets is disclosed. The manufacturing/vending system comprises a ticket manufacturing server and one or more vending devices located at remote sites. Each vending device is operatively coupled for communication with the server, normally via a network connection. Each vending devices is further equipped with blank media and printing means, so that a customer is able to purchase on-demand tickets from a vending device in communication with the server. Additionally, the vending devices may be configured as electronic aid to display the results of the purchased lottery tickets in entertaining ways to the customer.

Abstract: A scratch off lottery game card including a substrate on which a plurality of original game indicia are printed on a substrate, and a replica set of the original game indicia is placed on the top of the original game indicia in a scratch-off material covering the same. The replica game indicia and original game indicia are preferably in contrasting colors to be visually different from each other.

Abstract: A method of issuing a ticket, paid for with illegal payment means during a transaction between a user and a ticket vending machine, where if the payment means are identified as being illegal, the printed ticket is marked in such a manner as to enable the marked ticket to be distinguished from a regular ticket during an inspection operation.

Abstract: According to one embodiment, a player may accumulate occurrences of a bonus symbol over at least two outcomes. The player may be allowed a bonus if a running count of the occurrences is at least equal to a predetermined number. According to another embodiment, a player may accumulate occurrences of matched lottery numbers over a plurality of lottery outcomes (e.g., lottery number drawings) and/or a plurality of lottery entries. The player may be allowed a bonus if a running count of occurrences of matched numbers is at least equal to a predetermined number.