EXHIBIT A 

Case 1:20-cv-22945-RNS Document 88-1 Entered on FLSD Docket 10/21/2020 Page 1 of 54
MAI MULT A MINHA US010045184B2 OUTLET MITT UT PUN MINI 

( 12 ) United States Patent 

Padgett et al . ( 10 ) Patent No . : US 10 , 045 , 184 B2 

( 45 ) Date of Patent : Aug . 7 , 2018 

( 54 ) WIRELESS GUEST ENGAGEMENT SYSTEM ( 58 ) Field of Classification Search 

CPC . . . . H04W 4 / 008 ; H04B 5 / 0025 ; H04B 5 / 0081 ( 71 ) Applicant : Carnival Corporation , Miami , FL ( Continued ) ( US ) ( 56 ) References Cited ( 72 ) U . S . PATENT DOCUMENTS 

5 , 491 , 471 A 

5 , 559 , 370 A 

Inventors : John Padgett , Fort Lauderdale , FL 

( US ) ; Michael G . Jungen , Belle Isle , FL ( US ) ; Douglas Steele , Doral , FL 

( US ) ; Kyle Prestenback , Miami 

Springs , FL ( US ) ; Richard J . Criado , Weston , FL ( US ) ; Vince Ball , Kirkland , WA ( US ) ; Adam Leonards , Concord , CA ( US ) ; Glenn Curtis , Issaquah , WA 

( US ) ; Manny Vellon , Bellevue , WA 

( US ) ; Patrick Mendiuk , Kirkland , WA 

( US ) ; Sander Lam , Bothell , WA ( US ) 

2 / 1996 Stobbe 

9 / 1996 Berney 

( Continued ) 

FOREIGN PATENT DOCUMENTS 

CN 

Wo 

105493475 A 4 / 2016 

9618173 A2 6 / 1996 

( Continued ) 

( 73 ) Assignee : CARNIVAL CORPORATION , Miami , FL ( US ) OTHER PUBLICATIONS 

( * ) Notice : Subject to any disclaimer , the term of this 

patent is extended or adjusted under 35 

U . S . C . 154 ( b ) by 0 days . 

“ Bluetooth security token ” , < http : / / www . alibaba . com / product - de 

tail / bluetooth - security - token _ 1714163047 . html > . retrieved Mar . 14 , 2017 

( Continued ) 

( 21 ) Appl . No . : 15 / 459 , 906 Primary Examiner - Md Talukder 

( 74 ) Attorney , Agent , or Firm - McDermott Will & ( 22 ) Filed : Mar . 15 , 2017 Emery LLP 

( 65 ) Prior Publication Data 

US 2018 / 0139569 A1 May 17 , 2018 

Related U . S . Application Data 

( 60 ) Provisional application No . 62 / 420 , 998 , filed on Nov . 11 , 2016 , provisional application No . 62 / 440 , 938 , filed on Dec . 30 , 2016 . 

( 57 ) ABSTRACT 

A guest engagement system and associated methods provide seamless engagement with guests of facilities through the 

use of wireless sensing technologies . The system makes use 

of individual guest devices which are carried by guests and 

used to automatically identify and authenticate the guests throughout the facility . Services can thereby be seamlessly provided to the guests throughout the facility . The services 

include automatic unlocking of doors , including hotel or 

state room doors , based on the guests ' immediate proximity 

to their assigned room ' s door . The services also include 

automated payment services provided at checkout or vend 

ing terminals , and automated log - on to interactive displays 

and portals , among others , based on secure wireless authen 

tication of the guest devices . 

( 51 ) Int . Cl . H04B 7700 ( 2006 . 01 ) 

H04W 4 / 80 ( 2018 . 01 ) 

( Continued ) ( 52 ) U . S . CI . CPC . . . . . . . . . . . . H04W 4 / 80 ( 2018 . 02 ) ; H04B 5 / 0025 

( 2013 . 01 ) ; H04B 5 / 0081 ( 2013 . 01 ) ; H04L 

67 / 12 ( 2013 . 01 ) ; H04W 4 / 008 ( 2013 . 01 ) 20 Claims , 28 Drawing Sheets 

( 91 ) 

13 SENSOR 

NETWORK 

COMMUNICATION NETWORK mara 15 

INTERFACE DEVICES 

IN :

90 

Case 1:20-cv-22945-RNS Document 88-1 Entered on FLSD Docket 10/21/2020 Page 2 of 54
US 10 , 045 , 184 B2 

Page 2 

( 51 ) Int . Cl . H04W 4 / 00 ( 2018 . 01 ) 

H04B 5 / 00 ( 2006 . 01 ) 

H04L 29 / 08 ( 2006 . 01 ) 

Field of Classification Search 

USPC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 455 / 41 . 1 , 41 . 2 , 41 . 3 

See application file for complete search history . 

( 58 ) 

( 56 ) References Cited . . . . . . . . . 

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340 / 5 . 61 

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2016 / 0049025 A1 2 / 2016 Johnson 

2016 / 0055692 A1 2 / 2016 Trani 

2016 / 0056526 A1 2 / 2016 Li et al . 2016 / 0058375 A1 3 / 2016 Rothkopf 2016 / 0066123 A1 * 3 / 2016 Ko . . . . . . . . . . H04W 4 / 005 

455 / 41 . 1 

2016 / 0073264 A1 * 3 / 2016 Van Den Broeck . . H04W 4 / 021 

455 / 411 

2016 / 0077495 A1 3 / 2016 Brown et al . 2016 / 0087982 A1 * 3 / 2016 Takano . . . . . . . . . . . . . . H04L 63 / 0876 

726 / 3 

2016 / 0094072 AL 3 / 2016 Chen et al . 2016 / 0103590 A1 4 / 2016 Vu et al . 2016 / 0112878 A1 * 4 / 2016 Kaushik . . . . . . . . . . . . . H04W 12 / 12 

455 / 410 

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705 / 2 

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455 / 456 . 2 

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Case 1:20-cv-22945-RNS Document 88-1 Entered on FLSD Docket 10/21/2020 Page 3 of 54
US 10 , 045 , 184 B2 

Page 3 

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WO 

WO 

2014136338 A1 

2014139331 AL 

9 / 2014 

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May 30 , 2018 

* cited by examiner 

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Case 1:20-cv-22945-RNS Document 88-1 Entered on FLSD Docket 10/21/2020 Page 21 of 54
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Case 1:20-cv-22945-RNS Document 88-1 Entered on FLSD Docket 10/21/2020 Page 22 of 54
U . S . Patent Aug . 7 , 2018 Sheet 19 of 28 US 10 , 045 , 184 B2 

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Case 1:20-cv-22945-RNS Document 88-1 Entered on FLSD Docket 10/21/2020 Page 23 of 54
U . S . Patent Aug . 7 , 2018 Sheet 20 of 28 US 10 , 045 , 184 B2 

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Case 1:20-cv-22945-RNS Document 88-1 Entered on FLSD Docket 10/21/2020 Page 24 of 54
U . S . Patent Aug . 7 , 2018 Sheet 21 of 28 US 10 , 045 , 184 B2 

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Case 1:20-cv-22945-RNS Document 88-1 Entered on FLSD Docket 10/21/2020 Page 25 of 54
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Case 1:20-cv-22945-RNS Document 88-1 Entered on FLSD Docket 10/21/2020 Page 26 of 54
U . S . Patent Aug . 7 , 2018 Sheet 23 of 28 US 10 , 045 , 184 B2 

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Case 1:20-cv-22945-RNS Document 88-1 Entered on FLSD Docket 10/21/2020 Page 27 of 54
U . S . Patent Aug . 7 , 2018 Sheet 24 of 28 US 10 , 045 , 184 B2 

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Case 1:20-cv-22945-RNS Document 88-1 Entered on FLSD Docket 10/21/2020 Page 28 of 54
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Case 1:20-cv-22945-RNS Document 88-1 Entered on FLSD Docket 10/21/2020 Page 29 of 54
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Case 1:20-cv-22945-RNS Document 88-1 Entered on FLSD Docket 10/21/2020 Page 30 of 54
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Case 1:20-cv-22945-RNS Document 88-1 Entered on FLSD Docket 10/21/2020 Page 31 of 54
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Case 1:20-cv-22945-RNS Document 88-1 Entered on FLSD Docket 10/21/2020 Page 32 of 54
US 10 , 045 , 184 B2 

WIRELESS GUEST ENGAGEMENT SYSTEM beacon signals that uniquely identify the devices and their 

associated guests . The periodic beacon signals are detected 

CROSS - REFERENCE TO RELATED by sensors provided throughout the facility , and used by the 

APPLICATIONS guest engagement system to provide personalized services . 5 The services include automatic unlocking of doors , includ 

This application claims the benefit of U . S . Provisional ing hotel or state room doors , based on the guests ' imme 

Applications No . 62 / 420 , 998 , filed on Nov . 11 , 2016 , and diate proximity to their assigned room ' s door . The services 

No . 62 / 440 , 938 , filed on Dec . 30 , 2016 in the U . S . Patent also include automated payment services provided at check 

and Trademark Office , the disclosures of which are incor out or vending terminals , and automated log - on to interac 

porated by reference herein in their entireties . 10 tive displays and portals , among others , based on secure 

wireless authentication of the guest devices . TECHNICAL FIELD In accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure , a 

guest engagement system includes a plurality of guest The present subject matter relates to techniques and devices provided to users of the guest engagement system , equipment for providing automated engagement with guests 15 each guest device including a wireless communication of a facility using wireless sensing technologies . antenna and operative to emit a periodic beacon signal 

BACKGROUND broadcasting a unique identifier of the guest device using 

Bluetooth low energy ( BLE ) communications . The guest 

Guests of hotels and resorts , cruise ships , as well as other 20 engagement system further includes a sensor network com 

retail and commercial establishments , have come to expect prising a plurality of sensors each mounted at a different 

a high level of service and engagement from their hosts . The known location and operative to detect the periodic beacon 

service can include being provided with ready access to signals including the unique identifiers emitted using BLE 

private and / or restricted areas without having to present a communications by guest devices of the plurality of guest badge or other form of identification , to swipe or tap an 25 devices that are proximate to the sensor . The guest engage 

access card , or to otherwise proactively authenticate them - ment system additionally includes a communication net 

selves . The engagement can include being personally rec work connecting each of the plurality of sensors of the 

ognized by the hosts and provided with services and rec sensor network , and a central server . The central server is 

ommendations on that basis , without requiring the guests to communicatively connected to each of the plurality of 

identify themselves and remind the host of their preferences 30 sensors of the sensor network via the communication net 

or pre - existing bookings . work , and stores a log associating each unique identifier of 

In the present context , service and engagement is pro - a guest device detected using BLE communications by a 

vided only on the basis of users providing a name or sensor of the sensor network with the known location of the 

identification , tapping or swiping an access card , and having sensor and a timestamp . information on bookings retrieved manually by a host 35 In accordance with another aspect of the present disclo 

through a computer terminal . For example , guests must sure , a guest engagement system includes a plurality of guest 

present photo identification and a credit card at the time of devices provided to users of the guest engagement system , check - in , guest must tap or swipe an access card to activate each guest device having a unique identifier and including 

elevators or unlock doors of health facilities and guest rooms first and second wireless communication antennas respec during their stay , and guests must identify themselves each 40 tively configured for Bluetooth low energy ( BLE ) and near 

time they interact with a concierge , restaurant host , or front field communication ( NFC ) communications . The guest 

desk staff . As a result , interactions between hosts and guests engagement system further includes a sensor network com 

are impersonal and disjoined . prising a plurality of sensors each mounted at a different 

This disclosure provides a novel guest engagement sys - location . At least one sensor of the plurality of sensors is 

tem that relies on recent improvements in low power wire - 45 operative to detect guest devices that are proximate thereto 

less communication technologies and distributed sensor and receive unique identifiers therefrom based on BLE 

networks to provide novel services to those guests without communication with the guest devices , and at least another 

requiring guests to proactively identify and / or authenticate sensor of the plurality of sensors is operative to detect guest 

themselves . The guest engagement system thereby enables devices that are proximate thereto and receive unique iden 

hosts to seamlessly engage with the guests throughout their 50 tifiers therefrom based on NFC communication with the 

facilities and provide recommendations to the guests based guest devices . The guest engagement system also includes a 

on the guests previous experiences . communication network connecting each of the plurality of 

sensors of the sensor network , and a central server . The 

SUMMARY central server is communicatively connected to each of the 

55 plurality of sensors of the sensor network via the commu 

The teachings herein provide system and methods for n ication network , and stores a log associating each unique providing seamless engagement with guests of facilities identifier of a guest device received using BLE or NFC 

including ( and not limited to ) resorts , cruise ships , hotels , communications by a sensor of the sensor network . convention centers , retail and other commercial establish - In accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure , ments , amusement parks , casinos , or other large - scale facil - 60 an assembly includes a wireless device and an accessory . ity ( or group of facilities ) , through the use of wireless The wireless device has a device body with a tapered shape sensing technologies . The functionalities rely on guests including a front surface , a rear surface having a same shape having individual guest devices which are used to automati - as the front surface and a greater dimension than the front 

cally identify and authenticate the guests throughout the surface , and a cavity in which a processor and at least one 

facility , so as to seamlessly provide services to the guests . 65 wireless communication antenna are disposed . The acces 

The guest engagement system relies on the guest devices sory is configured to be worn by a user and has an accessory ( also referenced as medallions ) periodically broadcasting body having a tapered cavity configured to releasably 

Case 1:20-cv-22945-RNS Document 88-1 Entered on FLSD Docket 10/21/2020 Page 33 of 54
US 10 , 045 , 184 B2 

4 

receive the wireless device . The tapered cavity includes a configured for wireless communication with a user device , rear opening having the same shape as the front and rear and a second transceiver for communication with a reser 

surfaces of the device body . vation server . In accordance with another aspect of the present disclo - In accordance with another aspect of the present disclo 

sure , a wireless device includes a body having a tapered 5 sure , a door latch assembly includes a door knob , a latch 

shape including a front surface and a rear surface having a selectively operated by operation of the door knob , an 

same shape as the front surface and a dimension greater than electronically controlled locking mechanism operative to the front surface . The body includes a cavity in which a selectively unlock the latch , and a proximity sensor opera processor and at least one wireless communication antenna tive to sense contact or proximity of a user with the door are disposed . 10 knob . The electronically controlled locking mechanism is In accordance with a further aspect of the present disclo operative to selectively unlock the latch based on the contact sure , an accessory configured to be worn by a user includes or proximity of the user with the door knob sensed by the a body having inner and outer surfaces respectively config 

ured to face towards and away from the user when the proximity sensor . accessory is worn . The body has a tapered cavity extending 15 is . In accordance with another aspect of the present disclo 

between a front opening in the outer surface of the body and sure , an access panel for controlling an electronically con 

a rear opening in the inner surface of the body , the rear trolled door lock includes a radio and first and second 

opening has a same shape as the front opening , and the rear transceivers . The radio is configured for wireless commu 

opening has a dimension that is greater than that of the front nication with a door lock communication module electri 

opening 20 cally connected to an electronically controlled locking 

In accordance with another aspect of the present disclo mechanism . The first transceiver is configured for wireless 

sure , a portable wireless device includes a body having a communication with a user device to identify a user seeking fully enclosed cavity , the body having all dimensions equal to activate the electronically controlled locking mechanism . to or smaller than 2 . 5 inches , and the body having a The second transceiver is configured for communication 

thickness equal to or smaller than 5 / 8 inch . The portable 25 with a reservation server storing identifiers of users autho 

wireless device further includes a processor , a memory , a rized to activate the electronically controlled locking mecha 

battery , and first and second wireless communication anten - nism . Each of the radio , first transceiver , and second trans 

nas disposed in the cavity . The first and second wireless ceiver operate according to a different communication 

communication antennas are respectively configured for standard . Bluetooth low energy ( BLE ) and near field communication 30 Additional advantages and novel features will be set forth 

( NFC ) communications . in part in the description which follows , and in part will 

In accordance with another aspect of the present disclo - become apparent to those skilled in the art upon examination 

sure , a portable wireless device includes a body having a of the following and the accompanying drawings or may be 

fully enclosed cavity , and a processor , a memory , a battery , learned by production or operation of the examples . The 

and first and second wireless communication antennas dis - 35 advantages of the present teachings may be realized and 

posed in the cavity . The first and second wireless commu - attained by practice or use of various aspects of the meth 

nication antennas are respectively configured for Bluetooth odologies , instrumentalities and combinations set forth in 

low energy ( BLE ) and near field communication ( NFC ) the detailed examples discussed below . communications . The body comprises an open metallic ring disposed to substantially surround the cavity of the body , 40 BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 

and the open metallic ring includes at least one opening having a non - conducting material disposed therein . The drawing figures depict one or more implementations 

In accordance with another aspect of the present disclo - in accord with the present teachings , by way of example 

sure , a portable wireless device includes a body having a only , not by way of limitation . In the figures , like reference 

fully enclosed cavity , and a processor , a memory , a battery , 45 numerals refer to the same or similar elements . and first and second wireless communication antennas dis - FIGS . 1A and 1B are high - level functional block dia 

posed in the cavity . The body has a frustum shape , a front grams showing components of a guest engagement system . surface that is circular , and a rear surface that is circular and FIGS . 2A - 2E and 3A - 3E show medallions or guest has a diameter greater than that of the front surface . The devices used in the guest engagement system and accesso 

front and rear surfaces have diameters of 0 . 75 to 2 . 5 inches , 50 ries within which the medallions can be releasably inserted . the body has a thickness of 1 / 8 to 5 / 8 inch , and an angle FIGS . 4A - 4F show exploded perspective views of further 

between the front surface and a side surface of the frustum accessories within which the medallions can be releasably shaped body is in the range of 86 to 88 degrees . The first and inserted . 

second wireless communication antennas are respectively FIGS . 5A - 5L are diagrams showing component parts of 

configured for Bluetooth low energy ( BLE ) and near field 55 the medallions or guest devices . communication ( NFC ) communications . FIG . 6 is a block diagram showing functional components 

In accordance with another aspect of the present disclo of a medallion . sure , an electronic door lock assembly includes a latch FIGS . 7A - 7I show an automated door lock assembly and 

assembly , a door lock communication module , and an access components thereof that provides for automatically unlock 

panel . The latch assembly includes a latch and an electroni - 60 ing a door based on an interaction with a medallion . cally controlled locking mechanism operative to selectively FIGS . 8A - 8N are diagrams showing sensors of the guest 

unlock a door . The door lock communication module is engagement system and component parts thereof . electrically connected to the electronically controlled lock FIG . 9 is a high - level functional block diagram showing ing mechanism of the latch assembly , and includes a radio additional components , including end devices , of a guest 

configured for wireless communication . The access panel 65 engagement system . includes a radio configured for wireless communication with FIG . 10 is a perspective view of a gaming station that can 

the door lock communication module , a first transceiver be used as part of the guest engagement system . 

Case 1:20-cv-22945-RNS Document 88-1 Entered on FLSD Docket 10/21/2020 Page 34 of 54
US 10 , 045 , 184 B2 

FIGS . 11 and 12 are simplified functional block diagrams examples detailed herein , the guest devices 11 take the form 

of computer hardware platforms that may be used to imple of medallions and will generically be referenced as medal 

ment functionalities of the guest engagement system . lions in this disclosure . However , the devices / medallions 11 

can take other formats , and the term medallion thus is not 

DETAILED DESCRIPTION 5 intended to limit the scope of guest devices 11 that may be 

used as part of the system 10 . The guest devices / medallions 

In the following detailed description , numerous specific 11 are preferably light and compact so as to be readily worn 

details are set forth by way of examples in order to provide or carried by users . The guest devices / medallions 11 are 

a thorough understanding of the relevant teachings . How configured to communicate using at least one wireless 

ever , it should be apparent to those skilled in the art that the 10 communication technology / protocol and , preferably , are 

present teachings may be practiced without such details . In configured to communicate using two or more distinct 

other instances , well known methods , procedures , compo - wireless communication technologies / protocols . For 

nents , and / or circuitry have been described at a relatively example , a medallion 11 can be configured to communicate 

high - level , without detail , in order to avoid unnecessarily according to both near field communication ( NFC ) standards 

obscuring aspects of the present teachings . 15 and Bluetooth low energy ( BLE ) standards , though the 

The various techniques and equipment systems disclosed medallion 11 may generally operate using only one of the 

herein enable automated engagement with users or guests of standards at any given time in order to reduce energy 

a facility using wireless sensing technologies . expenditure . The guest engagement system relies on wireless sensing The guest engagement system 10 includes a sensor net 

technologies to securely identify guests based on medallions 20 work 13 of sensors 15 mounted throughout the facility and 

worn or carried by the guests , and to automatically provide configured to communicate wirelessly with guests ' medal 

services to the guests based on the secure identification . The lions 11 . A sensor 15 of the network 13 may be used for 

system additionally provides enhanced engagement with sensing a guest ' s location ( or proximity to the sensor 15 ) , for 

guests by maintaining a database of guest locations and example by detecting beacon signals or other signals emitted 

experiences , and enabling services to be provided to the 25 by the medallion 11 . The sensor 15 can also engage in 

guest seamlessly regardless of the guests ' locations . two - way communication with the medallion 11 to transmit 

FIG . 1A provides a general block diagram showing com - information to and receive information from the medallion 

ponents of a guest engagement system 10 . The guest engage - 11 . A sensor 15 may also be located in or otherwise 

ment system 10 of FIG . 1A may be provided in a facility associated with a particular interface device 17 or interface 

such as a ship ( e . g . , cruise ship ) , hotel , restaurant , resort , 30 function of the system , such as a sensor that is associated 

convention center , medical center or other treatment facility , with a door lock 17a , an automatic door or turnstile , a 

retail or other commercial establishment , entertainment vending terminal 17b , a cash register , a slot machine , an 

venue ( e . g . , concert hall , movie theater , arena , or stadium , interactive display 17c or portal 17d , or the like . In some 

amusement park or casino ) , transportation center ( e . g . , air situations , the sensor 15 is mounted within the interface 

port , marine port or terminal , train or bus station , multi - 35 device 17 , while in other situations , a sensor 15 associated 

modal transport center ) , or other facility or combination of with an interface device 17 is mounted in the vicinity of the 

such facilities . In one example , the facility may be a cruise interface device . For example , a spotlight sensor can be 

ship hosting large numbers of guests , or a cruise ship line placed above a location at which a user interacting with the 

including multiple cruise ships , associated shore facilities interface device 17 would be located ( e . g . , above a location 

( e . g . , port facilities ) , and partnering facilities ( e . g . , facilities 40 directly in front of , and around 1 foot away from , the 

of partners providing shore activities for cruise guests ) . In interface device 17 ) , so as to only sense beacon signals another example , the facility may be a resort including one emitted by medallions of users located directly in front of 

or more hotels , restaurants , theaters , amusement parks , and and close to the interface device 17 . When associated with 

other associated facilities distributed across one or more a particular interface device 17 or interface function , the 

geographic locations . In a further example , the facility may 45 sensor 15 may engage in two - way communication with the 

be a set of facilities associated with a particular event , such medallion 11 and provide a secure communication channel 

as a convention or tradeshow , that includes locations of between the device and medallion , for example to provide 

multiple partnering establishments ( e . g . , hotels , restaurants , automatic unlocking of the door lock based on secure 

museums , arenas , malls or other retail locations ) . Users of authentication of a particular guest ' s medallion . the guest engagement system are referenced generally herein 50 The guest engagement system 10 can further make use of 

as guests 12 . In the example of a cruise ship , the guests 12 end devices such as BLE - enabled mobile devices , tablet 

include cruise passengers and can more generally include computers , or interactive displays to provide services to 

stewards , staff , and other users of guest devices 11 . In other guests through sensing of ( and communication with ) medal 

examples , guests 12 can include any person interacting with lions 11 . The services provided using end devices can be 

the guest engagement system 10 including users of guest 55 provided in addition to the aforementioned services pro 

devices 11 . Guests 12 may thus reference patients , nurses , vided using the sensors 15 of the sensor network 13 and of 

doctors , and visitors , among other users , in the illustrative interface devices 17 to provide services . As described in 

context of a medical or treatment facility ; convention goers further detail below ( see , e . g . , the discussion of FIG . 9 ) , the 

and / or exhibitors in the illustrative context of a convention services provided through the end devices can include 

facility ; shoppers , staff members , travelers , sales personnel , 60 location services ( including location - sensing of medallions 

and others in illustrative contexts of various types of com - based on the end devices sensing medallions ' beacon sig 

mercial establishments . nals , and reporting of sensed medallions and locations to a 

The guest engagement system 10 is configured to com system server 21 ) , and causing medallions to switch into or 

municate wirelessly with guest devices 11 , such as medal - out of a various operating modes ( e . g . , sleep , beacon , and 

lions worn or carried by guests 12 , which each uniquely 65 bi - directional modes ) , among other services . identify an associated guest and are configured for secure The guest engagement system 10 also includes one or 

communication with the guest engagement system 10 . In the more servers 21 communicatively connected to the network 

Case 1:20-cv-22945-RNS Document 88-1 Entered on FLSD Docket 10/21/2020 Page 35 of 54
US 10 , 045 , 184 B2 

13 of sensors , to the interface devices 17 , and wirelessly to Each sensor network peripherals 14 includes a processor the medallions 11 via the various sensors 15 provided and memory , and is operative to control operation of the 

throughout the guest engagement system 10 and the asso - sensor ( s ) 15 connected thereto . In particular , the use of the 

ciated facility . One or more communications network ( s ) 19 sensor network peripheral 14 can enable the guest engage provide communication capabilities between the various 5 ment system 10 to function with sensors 15 having minimal 

elements of the system 10 . In one example , the guest ( or no ) on - board processing power and memory , and sensors 

engagement system 10 includes at least one authentication 15 requiring minimal configuration during initial system 

server used to authenticate guests ' medallions and provide installation . In particular , through the use of the sensor 

encryption and decryption services . The system can further network peripherals 14 , the individual sensors 15 do not 

include one or more servers storing databases of guest 10 need to store individual network identifiers ( e . g . , unique 

information ( e . g . , guest reservations ) , payment transaction network addresses ) for use by the sensors 15 to identify 

servers ( e . g . , including guest billing information ) , location themselves on the communication network 19 and to iden 

information ( e . g . , locations of sensors 15 within the facility , tify data transmitted by each respective sensor 15 on the 

and locations of medallions 11 throughout the facility and network 19 as having originated in the respective sensor 15 . elsewhere ) and the like . 15 Instead , the sensor network peripherals 14 are configured to 

Detailed descriptions of various components of the guest package data received from sensors 15 connected thereto for 

engagement system 10 will now be provided with reference communication across the network 19 , and in particular are 

to the accompanying figures . The descriptions are focused configured to associate with data received from each respec 

on illustrative embodiments of components of the system , tive sensor 15 an identifier for the respective sensor 15 . The 

and do not limit the scope of attributes and functions of the 20 sensor network peripherals 14 are further configured to 

components and system . packetize the data from the sensors 15 for communication 

Two different structures of sensors 15 can be used in the across the network 19 . Additionally , the individual sensors 

system . In one example , each individual sensor 15 in the 15 do not need to be operative to communicate on the 

guest engagement system 10 includes a processor and network 19 , and each respective sensor 15 does not need to 

memory that control , at least in part , operation of the sensor 25 have processing power sufficient to identify and process 

15 . In such an example , each sensor may additionally packets destined for the respective sensor from among 

include a network transceiver including a communication packets communicated across the network 19 . Instead , the 

port for communicatively connecting the sensor 15 to the sensor network peripherals 14 are configured to process data 

communication network 19 . The network transceiver may communicated across the network 19 to identify packets 

be an Ethernet , Wifi , or other appropriate transceiver . 30 destined for the respective sensor network peripheral 14 

Alternatively or additionally , the guest engagement sys - and / or for sensors 15 connected thereto , to process instruc 

tem 10 may include sensor network peripherals 14 distrib tions included in the packets , and to control the appropriate 

uted throughout the facility and operative to have sensors 15 sensor ( s ) 15 connected thereto according to the processed directly connected thereto . In such an example , FIG . 1B instructions . provides a general block diagram showing a more detailed 35 As described above , the use of sensor network peripherals view of the sensor network 13 of the guest engagement 14 thereby enables the wireless guest engagement system 10 

system 10 showing sensor network peripherals 14 that are to operate using low cost sensors 15 that do not include 

used to connect sensors 15 to the communication network network communication circuitry and include no or minimal 

19 . In particular , as shown in the figure , sensors 15 of the processing power and memory . Additionally , the use of 

sensor network 13 are each directly connected to respective 40 sensor network peripherals 14 enables the wireless guest 

sensor network peripherals 14 , and each receive power from engagement system 10 to be configured for and begin 

and operate under the control of the corresponding sensor operation without having to assign individual network iden 

network peripheral 14 . In turn , the sensor network periph tifiers to each sensor 15 , and / or without having to configure erals 14 are connected to the communication network 19 and the servers 21 with information on each individual sensor 15 

communicate with the servers 21 through the network 19 . 45 in the system . Instead , the wireless guest engagement system 

Each sensor network peripheral generally includes a net - 10 can be configured for operation by connecting multitudes 

work transceiver for communication with the communica - of sensors 15 directly to nearby sensor network peripherals 

tion network 19 , such as an Ethernet , Wifi , or other appro - 14 located throughout the facility , and configuring the sensor 

priate network transceiver . Each sensor network peripheral network peripherals 14 for communication through the 

14 further includes at least one port for connecting at least 50 communication network 19 with the servers 21 . one associated sensor 15 . For example , the sensor network While the foregoing description has focused on sensor 

peripheral 14 typically includes one or more communication network peripherals 14 being directly connected to sensors 

buses through which multiple sensors 15 or other devices 15 configured to sense the presence of and / or communicate 

can be connected . For instance , a sensor network peripheral with medallions 11 , the sensor network 13 and the sensor 

14 may include two buses each operative to connect up to 55 network peripherals 14 can more generally support other 

sixteen sensors 15 in one example . Through these connec - types of sensors or devices ( reference generally by numeral 

tions , the sensor network peripherals 14 serve to relay 16 in FIG . 1B ) . Specifically , the sensor network 13 and the 

sensing information captured by the sensors 15 to the sensor network peripherals 14 can be used to control opera 

communication network 19 and servers 21 , and to relay tion of and relay sensing data from the other sensors or 

control or communications from the communication net - 60 devices 16 through the communication network 19 . The 

work 19 and servers 21 back to the sensors 15 . The sensor sensors or devices 16 may include sensors such as smoke or 

network peripherals 14 may further relay data or other CO ( carbon monoxide ) sensors , infrared or occupancy sen 

communications received from medallions 11 by the sensors sors , photodiodes or light sensors , temperature and / or 

15 to the communication network 19 and servers 21 , and to humidity sensors , and the like . The other sensors or devices 

relay control or communications from the communication 65 16 can also include devices such as speakers and / or micro 

network 19 and servers 21 back to the medallions 11 via the phones ( e . g . , parts of a public address ( PA ) system ) , actua 

sensors 15 . tors or controllers ( e . g . , for opening or closing vents or 

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US 10 , 045 , 184 B2 

10 

sloping a 

window shades ) , switches or relays ( e . g . , for turning on / off surface ) . The angle is such that the rear / lower opening of the lights , heating and ventilation , power ) , cameras ( e . g . , as part cavity is larger than the front / upper opening , to thereby 

of a security system ) , and the like . The sensor network prevent the medallion 11 from passing through the cavity . 

peripherals 14 can further be configured to support sensors Similarly , the medallion 11 can tapered shape having an 

mounted in ( or associated with ) vending terminals 17b , 5 angled edge along is outer peripheral surface , and the edge 

interactive displays 17c , and other interface devices 17 may be angled with a predetermined angle equal to that of 

described throughout this document . the cavity ( e . g . , 3 degrees ( + / - 1 degree ) relative to a 

The functionality provided by the sensor network periph - right - angled edge , corresponding to an angle of 87 degrees 

erals 14 can also be incorporated into other components of ( range of 86 - 88 degrees ) relative to the front or back 

the wireless guest engagement system 10 . Notably , the 10 surface ) , as also shown in FIG . 2C . The angled edge of the 

functionality of the sensor network peripherals 14 can be medallion is such that the medallion has a smaller dimension 

incorporated into components that include a processor , ( e . g . , smaller diameter ) on the front / upper surface 11a of the 

memory , and a network transceiver for communication medallion 11 relative to the back / lower surface 11b of the 

across the communication network 19 . For example , as medallion 11 . As such , the combination of angled edges of 

shown in FIG . 1B , an access panel 705 provided in asso - 15 the medallion 11 and cavity in the accessory 201 ensure that 

ciation with a door lock 17a may be configured for use as a the medallion can only be placed in the accessory 201 in 

sensor network peripheral 14 . Note that the access panel 705 such a way that the front surface 11a of the medallion 11 

is described in further detail below in relation to FIGS . faces outwards while a back surface 11b faces rearwards . 7A - 71 . In the example of FIG . 1B , the access panel 705 can Additionally , the medallion 11 may be sized to be slightly include at least one port and / or bus for connecting one or 20 smaller than the cavity so as to ease the fit of the medallion 

multiple sensors 15 thereto , and the access panel 705 may be 11 within the cavity . For example , the medallion 11 may 

configured to support operation of the sensors 15 as have an outer dimension , such as an outer diameter , that is 

described above in relation to the sensor network peripherals 0 . 75 mm ( e . g . , range of 0 . 5 - 1 mm ) smaller than the inner 

14 . dimension / diameter of the cavity to enable the medallion 11 

As detailed above , a guest device 11 can take the form of 25 to be inserted into the cavity even in the medallion is not 

a medallion 11 , such as the illustrative medallion 11 shown perfectly aligned with the cavity and / or is tilted with respect in FIG . 2A . As shown , the medallion 11 takes the form of a to the cavity . token having an outer diameter of approximately 1 . 25 inches In summary , the medallion can thereby easily and 

( range of 0 . 75 to 2 . 5 inches ) , a thickness of approximately securely couple to the accessory 201 by virtue of the 

3 / 8 inch ( range of 1 / 8 to 5 / 8 inch ) , and a weight of approxi - 30 following features . The medallion 11 has an angled edge , mately 1 . 8 ounces ( range of 1 . 2 - 2 . 4 ounces ) . sloping at a predetermined angle ( e . g . , 3 degrees ) from the 

The medallion 11 is configured to be insertable into " front ” surface of the medallion to the “ rear ” surface so as 

different accessories worn by guests 12 . The accessories to align with the oppositely formed angled edge of the 

enable the medallions 11 to be securely attached to the accessory 201 . The angled edge design allows for alignment 

guests 12 so as to ensure that guests do not inadvertently lose 35 of the medallion 11 to the accessory by inserting the medal 

or misplace their medallions . FIG . 2B shows an illustrative lion in the “ rear ” side of the accessory . Since the medallion 

accessory 201 that takes the form of a wrist - band or bracelet . 11 can only be inserted into or removed from the rear of the 

Other types of accessories , including lanyards , pendants , accessory 201 , the forces needed to dislodge the medallion 

keychains , necklaces , belt buckles , bathing suites ( e . g . , 11 from the accessory 201 are rearward and thus opposed to 

bikini rings ) , body piercings , and the like , some of which are 40 a body of a guest wearing the accessory 201 ( and / or opposed 

shown in FIGS . 4A - 4F , can also be used . The medallion 11 to another surface preventing the easy dislodging of the 

is configured to be inserted into a cavity of the wrist - band medallion ) when the medallion is in the accessory 201 . As 

accessory 201 that is shaped and sized to receive the such , the medallion 11 cannot readily be dislodged or 

medallion 11 . As shown , the medallion 11 is inserted via a removed from the accessory 201 when the accessory is worn 

rear of the wrist - band accessory 201 , i . e . , via a side of the 45 201 . accessory 201 that is designed to face the user , such as the The foregoing description has focused on medallions 11 

inside surface of the wrist band that is designed to contact a having circular shapes , and corresponding cavities having 

wrist of a user when the wrist band is worn . The medallion circular shapes . However , this disclosure is not limited to 

11 is inserted via a rear of the wrist - band accessory 201 so such medallions and cavities . More generally , medallions 11 

as to ensure that the medallion 11 cannot inadvertently slip 50 and corresponding cavities in accessories may have oval or 

out of the accessory 201 when the accessory 201 is worn by other rounded shapes or square , rectangular , or other angular the user . In particular , as shown in FIG . 2C , the cavity of the shapes ( e . g . , triangular , pentagonal , hexagonal , etc . ) . In each 

accessory 201 configured to receive the medallion can be case , the medallions 11 and corresponding cavities may have 

tapered and thus have an angled or chamfered edge ensuring tapered shapes including angled edges sloping at a prede 

that the medallion 11 can be inserted into cavity of the 55 termined angle ( e . g . , 3 degrees ) from the " front ” surface of 

accessory 201 but cannot pass through the cavity and exit the the medallion to the “ rear ” surface so as to ensure that the 

accessory 201 through a front surface thereof . In the medallion 11 can only be inserted into or removed from the 

example of FIG . 2C , the edge is angled at approximately 3 rear of the accessory 201 . In such cases , the medallions 11 

degrees relative to a right - angled edge ( corresponding to an may have front and rear surfaces having substantially similar 

angle of 87 degrees relative to the front or back surface ) . In 60 ( or identical ) shapes and different dimensions so as to confer 

detail , the cavity in the example of FIG . 2C may not have a the tapered shape to the medallions 11 , and the cavities in the 

cylindrical shape but may instead have a tapered shape , e . g . accessories may similarly have front and rear openings 

a frustum shape of a slice of a cone having a circular base having substantially similar ( or identical ) shapes and differ 

and edges angled relative to the circular base at a predeter - ent dimensions so as to confer the tapered shape to the 

mined angle ( e . g . , 3 degrees ( + / - 1 degree ) relative to a 65 cavities . right - angled edge , corresponding to an angle of 87 degrees Additionally , the medallion 11 and accessory 201 can 

( range of 86 - 88 degrees ) relative to the front or back include magnets used to ensure that the medallion 11 is 

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US 10 , 045 , 184 B2 

automatically positioned in a predetermined rotational ori not significantly dampen the wireless communication capa entation with the cavity of the accessory 201 ( e . g . , self bility of a medallion 11 housed in the accessory 201 . To 

alignment of the medallion 11 in the accessory 201 ) . The ensure proper function of the gaps in the metal outer rims of 

magnets additionally provide magnetic adhesion between the medallion 11 and accessory 201 , the gaps of the medal 

the medallion 11 and accessory 201 to reduce the chances of 5 lion 11 and accessory 201 should be aligned when the 

the medallion 11 coming loose from and / or falling out of ) medallion 11 is mounted in the accessory 201 . Specifically , the accessory 201 . Different numbers of magnets can be the alignment of the gaps ensures that even if the outer metal 

used for this purpose . For example , two , three , four , or five rims of the medallion 11 and accessory 201 contact each 

or more magnets can be used . The magnets may be evenly other , the metal rims do not jointly form a closed metal loop 

spaced around peripheries of the medallion 11 and of the 10 around the electronics of the medallion 11 . In order to ensure 

cavity or , more generally , can be spaced at predetermined alignment of the gaps , magnets such as those described 

locations around the peripheries selected such each magnet above in relation to FIGS . 2D and 2E can be used to provide 

mounted in the medallion 11 aligns with a corresponding a desired rotational alignment of the medallion 11 within the 

magnet mounted in the periphery of the cavity when the accessory 201 . The geometry and polarity of the magnets are 

medallion 11 is inserted in a desired orientation in the cavity 15 arranged so as to have the medallion self - orient in the 

of the accessory . accessory with the gaps in the metal outer rings aligned with 

As shown in FIG . 2D , four magnets can be provided in the each other ( e . g . , adjacent to each other or in contact with 

accessory 201 at positions aligned with four magnets pro - each other ) . vided in the medallion 11 to ensure that the medallion 11 is The gaps in the medallion 11 and in the accessory 201 

always orientated in the correct position in the X and Y axis . 20 have widths selected to ensure that a closed metal loop is not 

In particular , opposite polarity magnets can be provided at formed even if the medallion 11 and the accessory 201 are 

each location in the medallion 11 and accessory 201 , as not in perfect alignment . Alternatively or additionally , an 

shown in FIG . 2E , so as to automatically align the medallion insulating liner 41 such as a plastic or other insulating liner 

11 in a particular rotational orientation relative to the acces shown in FIGS . 3C and 3D can be provided along an inner 

sory 201 . For example , in the magnet coupling mechanism 25 surface of the cavity in the accessory 201 housing the 

of FIG . 2E , the magnets on the top of the medallion 11 and medallion 11 . The insulating liner 41 can extend along an 

accessory 201 ( e . g . , the “ top ” in the orientation shown in entire circumference of the cavity , or the insulating liner 41 

FIG . 2D ) have polarities that are inverted relative to the can be located so as to contact the gap in the metal outer rim 

magnets at the bottom of the medallion 11 and accessory 201 of a medallion 11 when the medallion 11 is mounted in the 

( e . g . , the “ bottom ” in the orientation shown in FIG . 2D ) , so 30 desired orientation in the accessory 201 . The insulating liner 

as to prevent the medallion 11 from being inserted rotation 41 ensures that a metal rim of the accessory 201 does not 

ally upside down relative to the orientation shown in FIGS . form a short circuit across the gap in the metal outer rim of 

2D and 2E . This feature , along with the angled edges the medallion 11 by providing insulation between the gap in 

detailed in relation to FIGS . 2B and 2C , ensure that the the metal outer rims of the medallion 11 and the accessory 

medallion 11 can only be ( or is preferentially ) inserted into 35 201 . the accessory 201 in one orientation . As shown in FIG . 3A , As shown in FIG . 2B , the accessory 201 can take the form 

the medallion 11 can have a metal outer rim and a plastic of a wrist - band . However , other accessory formats can also 

body disposed within the interior of the metal outer rim . be used . For example , FIGS . 4A - 4E show various other 

Electronics included in the medallion 11 are mounted within types of accessories configured to have medallions 11 

the plastic body . The metal outer rim is interrupted in at least 40 inserted therein . In this regard , FIG . 4A shows a sport band 

one location to form an open ring , and includes a plastic or accessory including a sports band ( made , e . g . , of silicone ) , other non - conducting spacer within the resulting gap . For a retaining ring ( made , e . g . , of stainless steel and including 

example , in the embodiment of FIG . 3A , the metal outer rim a gap filled with a non - conducting material 31 ) that fits into 

is formed of two separate semi - circular metal housings that , the sports band and includes indentations for holding mag 

when disposed along the outer rim of the medallion 11 , are 45 nets , and a two - part clasp designed to close the band around 

spaced part from each other by two diametrically opposed a user ' s wrist . The retaining ring includes , in its center , the 

gaps . The gaps in the metal outer rim ( or between metal cavity configured to releasably house a medallion 11 . FIG . outer rim parts ) ensure that eddy currents cannot flow 4B shows a clip ( made , e . g . , of aluminum ) that includes a 

around the metal outer rim , and thereby ensure that eddy cavity configured to releasably house a medallion 11 , and 

current flow does not significantly dampen the wireless 50 further includes a gap filled with a non - conducting material 

communication capabilities of the medallions 11 . Alterna - 31 around the periphery of the cavity . The clip may be 

tively , as shown in FIG . 3E , the circular metal housing can attached to a keychain in some examples . FIG . 4C shows a 

include one or more gaps that are filled by injection molded cuff ( made , e . g . , of nylon ) that includes a retaining ring 

plastic . As also shown in FIG . 3E , the circular metal housing ( made , e . g . , of stainless steel and including a gap filled with 

can include indentations for placing magnets such as those 55 a non - conducting material such as plastic ) that fits into the 

described above in relation to FIGS . 2D - 2E . In general , the cuff and includes indentations for holding magnets . The 

metal outer ring is formed of a non - magnetic metal material retaining ring includes , in its center , the cavity configured to 

and can be formed , for example , of burnished aluminum . releasably house a medallion 11 . A similar gap in a metal outer rim can be included in FIG . 4D shows a bracelet ( made , e . g . , of stainless steel 

accessories 201 , as shown in FIG . 3B . In detail , in embodi - 60 including a gap 32 filled with a non - conducting material 31 ) , ments in which an accessory 201 is metallic or includes and a retaining ring 33 ( made , e . g . , of stainless steel and 

metallic components around the periphery of the cavity including a gap filled with a non - conducting material 31 ) 

configured to house the medallion 11 , the accessory 201 that fits into the bracelet and includes indentations 34 for 

includes a gap in the metal outer rim of the cavity . The gap holding magnets . The retaining ring includes , in its center , in the metal outer rim ( or between metal outer rim parts ) 65 the cavity configured to releasably house a medallion 11 . ensures that eddy currents cannot flow around the metal FIG . 4E shows a pendant ( made , e . g . , of stainless steel 

outer rim , and thereby ensures that eddy current flow does including a gap 32 filled with a non - conducting material 31 ) , 

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US 10 , 045 , 184 B2 

14 

and a retaining ring 33 ( made , e . g . , of stainless steel and of stamp - cut steel , include machine - bent tabs , and include including a gap filled with a non - conducting material 31 ) alignment pins for placement on the PCB . The pins may also 

that fits into the pendant and includes indentations for provide connection to ground and feed pads . As shown in 

holding magnets . The retaining ring includes , in its center , FIG . 5G , the J - shaped BLE antenna can be formed using a 

the cavity configured to releasably house a medallion 11 . In 5 laser direct structuring ( LDS ) process as an injection 

some examples , the pendant is configured to attach to a molded plastic part plated with metal , and may include snap 

decorative chain for wearing by a guest . In other examples , features on a bottom of the molded part for use in placement 

the pendant is configured to attach to a keychain or other and alignment on the PCB . item . Finally , FIG . 4F shows a mount configured to be worn Detailed schematics of the J - shaped BLE antenna are 

using a watch - type band . The mount ( made , e . g . , of stainless 10 provided in FIGS . 5H - 5L . FIGS . 5H - 5K show detailed 

steel including a gap filled with a non - conducting material ) schematic views of the BLE antenna provided from front , has a retaining ring ( made , e . g . , of stainless steel and side , rear , and bottom views , respectively , while FIG . 5L 

including a gap filled with a non - conducting material 31 ) provides a perspective view of the BLE antenna . Dimen 

that fits into the mount and includes indentations for holding sions of the antenna and design tolerances on the dimensions 

magnets . 15 are provided in the figures in millimeters ( mm ) . The dimen 

The accessories shown in FIGS . 4A - 4E are non - limiting sions provided are illustrative , and the BLE antenna can be 

examples of accessories in which medallions 11 can be scaled up or scaled down relative to the dimensions shown 

mounted . However , other types of accessories , including depending on the particular application in which the BLE 

lanyards , pendants , keychains , necklaces , belt buckles , bath - antenna element is to be used . In the embodiment shown in 

ing suites ( e . g . , bikini rings ) , body piercings , and the like , 20 the figures , the dimensions of the antenna are set such that 

may also be used . an overall length of the antenna enables the antenna to 

The foregoing description of the medallions 11 has resonate at a desired frequency in the 2 . 4 GHz range , for 

focused on external attributes of the medallions 11 , such as example by setting an overall length of the radiation element 

the medallions shown in FIG . 5A . Specifically , FIG . 5A to approximately 1 / 4 wavelength at 2 . 4 GHz . Moreover , the 

shows top , bottom , and side views of an illustrative medal - 25 radius of curvature of the J - shaped antenna may be set to 

lion 11 . The following description of FIGS . 5B - 5E details maximize the radius of curvature of the antenna within the 

internal structures of various embodiments of the medal space constraints imposed by the cavity of the medallion 

lions . within which the antenna is located while ensuring that the 

As shown in FIGS . 5B , 5C , 5D , and 5E , different embodi antenna does not contact a metallic outer ring of the medal 

ments of medallions 11 include magnets 501 , a bottom cap 30 lion . 503 , a foam filler 505 , a battery assembly 507 ( e . g . , a In embodiments in which the J - shaped BLE antenna is 

CR2025 battery ) , an insulation film spacer 509 , a printed formed using a laser direct structuring ( LDS ) process as an 

circuit board assembly ( PCBA ) 511 , a BLE antenna 513 injection - molded plastic part plated with metal , the rear 

( e . g . , a J - shaped BLE antenna ) , an NFC antenna 515 ( e . g . , surface ( shown in FIG . 5J ) may be formed of the injection 

a wound wire coil antenna ) , a metal housing 517 ( e . g . , of 35 molded plastic part while the front surface ( shown in FIG . aluminum ) , and a top cap 519 . The BLE antenna 513 can be 5H ) may be substantially fully plated with metal . The metal 

soldered to an upper surface of the PCB 511 , while the NFC plating formed on the front surface may extend to the rear 

antenna 515 may be connected to the PCB 511 by pogo pins . surface , and may notably extend to those portions of the rear 

In the embodiment of FIG . 5E , the NFC antenna 515 is surface shown in gray shading in FIG . 5 ) . In particular , the 

coated in silicone for durability . As shown in FIG . 5B , the 40 metal plating may extend along a top edge 521 of the 

magnets 501 may fit within indentations provided in the top J - shaped antenna to the rear surface of the antenna and 

cap 519 ( or , alternatively , in the bottom cap 503 ) and be held thereby provide an antenna ground terminal that is electri 

in place by the indentations . Alternatively , as shown in FIG . cally connected to a ground terminal of the PCBA 511 . The 

5E , the magnets 501 may fit within indentations provided in metal plating may further extend onto a side protrusion 523 

the silicone coating the NFC antenna 515 and may be held 45 of the J - shaped antenna to the rear surface of the antenna and 

in place by the indentations . thereby provide an RF signal terminal that is electrically 

In the embodiment of FIGS . 5B , 5D , and 5E , the metal connected to the PCBA 511 . In operation , the PCBA 511 

housing 517 is manufactured separately from the bottom and may thus apply signals between the ground terminal ( at 521 ) 

top caps 503 and 519 . The metal housing 517 may be made and the RF signal terminal ( at 523 ) in order to emit BLE 

of aluminum or other metal , while the bottom and top caps 50 signals using the antenna , and may sense signals at those 

503 and 519 may be made of plastic . In contrast , in the terminals in order to receive BLE signals using the antenna . embodiment of FIG . 5C , the top cap 519 is integrally formed Additionally , as shown in the cross - sectional view shown 

with the metal housing 517 . For example , in the embodiment in FIG . 51 , the J - shaped antenna has a non - planar profile 

of FIG . 5C , the top cap 519 and metal housing 517 may be including two bend points used to elevate the antenna 

machined out of a block of material including metal and 55 element above the ground plane of the PCBA 511 . By plastic materials disposed within the block such that , fol spacing the antenna element high above the ground plane , lowing machining , the top cap 519 has an open metal ring the antenna element is capable of radiating more RF energy . ( e . g . , at 517 ) disposed around its outer peripheral surface Finally , corners of the J - shaped antenna can be formed by that is interrupted by one or more gaps that are filled with laser trimming so as not to be right angled ( 90 degree ) in 

plastic or other insulating material . Additionally , following 60 order to enable fine frequency tuning . machining , the top cap 519 has a plastic ( or insulating ) FIG . 6 is a block diagram showing functional components 

center . For this purpose , the block of material used for of a medallion 11 . The components shown in FIG . 6 , machining may be a plastic - impregnated metal . including the microprocessor 603 , memory 601 , transceivers 

FIGS . 5F and 5G show detailed views of PCB assemblies 607 and 609 , and sensor 605 , form part of the PCBA 511 

511 used in medallions 11 , which show in detail the J - shaped 65 shown in FIGS . 5B - 5E . BLE antenna mounted on an upper surface of the PCB . As As shown in FIG . 6 , the medallion 11 includes a memory shown in FIG . 5F , the J - shaped BLE antenna can be formed 601 , microprocessor 603 , optional sensor ( s ) 605 such as an 

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15 16 

accelerometer , one or more transceivers 607 , 609 and asso - cally , the memory 601 stores programming instructions 

ciated antennas 513 , 515 , and the battery 507 . The compo which , when executed by the microprocessor 603 , cause the 

nents may be communicatively and / or electrically connected medallion 11 to operate according to a selected one of the 

to each other by circuits integrated in the PCB of the PCBA three modes of operation . Initially , when a medallion 11 is 

511 . In particular , the memory 601 is communicatively 5 first activated by being provided with a battery 507 , the 

connected to the microprocessor 603 , such that machine - medallion 11 operates in the sleep mode of operation . The 

executable programming instructions stored in the memory sleep mode of operation is a very low power mode of 

601 can be executed by the microprocessor 603 to cause the operation which conserves battery power . In the sleep mode 

medallion 11 to perform functions such as those described of operation , the medallion 11 listens periodically for net 

throughout this disclosure . In addition to programming 10 work advertisements from a recognized guest engagement 

instructions , the memory 601 stores a unique identifier used system 10 and remains in the sleep mode of operation as 

by the guest engagement system 10 to uniquely identify each long as an advertisement is not received from a recognized 

medallion . The memory 610 can also store encryption and guest engagement system 10 . In the sleep mode of operation , decryption keys , and encrypted data . For example , in one the medallion 11 listens for network advertisements on a 

example , the memory stores both a public identifier for the 15 periodic schedule such as once every 30 seconds , once 

medallion 11 that uniquely identifies the medallion and is every minute , once every 5 minutes , or the like . If a network 

broadcast in the beacon signal emitted by the medallion , and advertisement is received during a periodic listen period , the 

a private identifier that also uniquely identifies the medal - medallion 11 determines whether the advertisement is for a 

lion , is stored in an encrypted format in the memory , and is recognized guest engagement system 10 and , upon deter 

used to securely authenticate the medallion ( e . g . , for use in 20 mining that the advertisement is from a recognized guest 

payments and for unlocking doors ) . Additionally , the micro - engagement system 10 , the medallion 11 switches to the 

processor 603 is communicatively connected to one or more bi - directional mode of operation . optional sensors 605 , such as an accelerometer sensor , and In the bi - directional mode of operation , the medallion 11 

to one or more transceivers 607 , 609 . is configured to both emit a beacon signal via the BLE 

As noted above , the medallion includes at least one 25 transceiver 607 and antenna 513 , and to listen for commu 

transceiver and associated antenna configured for wireless nications from the recognized guest engagement system 10 

communication with the guest engagement system 10 . As via the BLE transceiver 607 and antenna 513 . The medallion 

shown , the medallion 11 includes two transceivers each 11 may additionally listen for communications via the NFC 

operating according to a different communication standard . transceiver 609 and antenna 515 in the bi - directional mode 

In the example , a first transceiver 607 operates according to 30 of operation . The medallion 11 listens for communications 

the BLE standard , and is connected to an associated antenna from the recognized guest engagement system 10 on a 

513 used for BLE communications , while a second trans - periodic basis in the bi - directional mode of operation , for 

ceiver 609 operates according to the NFC standard ( e . g . , a example every 10 ms , every 100 ms , or the like . Further 

radio - frequency identification ( RFID ) standard ) , and is con - detailed information on the bi - directional mode of operation 

nected to an associated antenna 515 used for NFC commu - 35 is provided below in relation to the description of the door 

nications . While each transceiver is shown as having a lock . The medallion 11 may continue to operate in the 

dedicated antenna in FIG . 6 , in some embodiments two or bi - directional mode of operation until the medallion 11 

more transceivers may share a same antenna . receives a communication from the recognized guest 

As described above , the BLE transceiver and antenna is engagement system 10 causing the operating mode to switch 

used by the medallion 11 to emit periodic beacon signals that 40 to the beacon mode of operation . The bi - directional mode of 

enable the guest engagement system 10 to determine the operation may consume higher power than the sleep mode of 

location and identity of a guest and provide services to the operation . guest . The BLE transceiver and antenna can also be used for In the beacon mode of operation , the medallion 11 is 

secure communications . The operation of the BLE trans - configured to emit the beacon signal via the BLE transceiver 

ceiver and antenna , however , generally requires that the 45 607 and antenna 513 . Optionally , the medallion may peri 

battery 507 provides sufficient power to the medallion 11 for o dically listen for communications from the recognized operation . When the charge level of the battery 507 falls guest engagement system 10 via the BLE transceiver 607 

below a threshold , and / or the battery or BLE transceiver and antenna 513 , but the listen time periods occur less 

fails , the medallion 11 may be unable to communicate using frequently ( e . g . , every second , every 5 s , or the like ) in the 

BLE signals . In such situations , the medallion can nonethe - 50 beacon mode of operation than in the bi - directional mode of 

less operate as a passive NFC / RFID device . In particular , to operation . As a result , the beacon mode of operation is 

function as a passive NFC / RFID device , the medallion does associated with a lower power consumption than the bi 

not require any power from the battery for operation directional mode of operation , but a higher power consump 

Instead , the medallion operates based on power harvested tion than the sleep mode of operation . The periodic listen 

through the NFC antenna from radio frequency signals 55 periods in the beacon mode of operation are used to listen for 

inducing current flow in the antenna . When operating as a communications from the recognized guest engagement passive NFC / RFID device , the medallion may be configured system 10 causing operation mode to switch to the bi 

to transmit signals including the medallion ' s unique identi - directional mode of operation . fier in response to receiving RFID interrogation signals or In both the bi - directional and beacon modes of operations , other signals inducing sufficient current flow in the antenna . 60 periodic beacon signals are transmitted from the medallion 

The guest engagement system 10 may thus be able to 11 . In general , the beacon signals include a unique identifier 

provide limited services to guests even if the guests ' medal - of the medallion , and are transmitted on a periodic basis 

lions do not receive sufficient operating power from their ( e . g . , every 10 ms , every 100 ms , every second , or the like ) . 

batteries . The beacon signals can be sensed by sensors 15 of the 

When the battery 507 provides sufficient power for opera - 65 recognized guest engagement system 10 , and used by the 

tion of the BLE transceiver , the medallion 11 is configured guest engagement system 10 to determine the approximate 

to operate using three distinct modes of operation . Specifi position of the medallion 11 within the facility . The beacon 

Case 1:20-cv-22945-RNS Document 88-1 Entered on FLSD Docket 10/21/2020 Page 40 of 54
17 

1 below . 

US 10 , 045 , 184 B2 

18 

signals are also used by the recognized guest engagement The door lock module 703 is electrically connected to the 

system 10 to provide services to the guest , as described in latch assembly 701 , and more specifically to the locking 

more detail below . mechanism of the latch assembly 701 , by a wire or other 

The medallions 11 communicate wirelessly with the sen - conductor . The door lock module 703 generally is battery 

sors 15 of the recognized guest engagement system 10 to 5 powered and is mounted within the door , although the door 

enable the guest engagement system to provide automated lock module 703 can be placed in different locations depend 

engagement with users or guests of the facility in which the ing on implementation . A same battery may be used to 

sensors 15 are mounted . While the sensors 15 can be power both the door lock module 703 and the electronically mounted throughout the facility , some sensors 15 are controlled locking and unlocking mechanism of the latch 

mounted in or otherwise associated with a particular inter - 10 assembly 701 . In addition to controlling the electronically 

face device 17 or interface function of the system . As shown controlled locking mechanism , the door lock module 703 

in FIG . 1A , interface devices 17 include door locks 17a , communicates wirelessly with the access panel 705 from 

automatic doors or turnstiles , vending terminals 17b , cash which it receives instructions to unlock the door . registers , slot machines , interactive displays 17c or portals The access panel 705 communicates wirelessly with the 

17d , and the like . A particular interface device 17 , which 15 door lock module 703 , and provides instructions to unlock 

provides functionality of a door lock 17a , is described in the door to the door lock module 703 . The access panel 705 

detail below with respect to FIGS . 7A - 71 . also communicates wirelessly with guests ' medallions 11 

The door lock 17a provides guests the ability to gain and determines , based on a secure read of information stored 

access to their cruise ship stateroom , resort room , or other in a guest ' s medallion 11 , whether or not to instruct the door 

limited access facility ( e . g . , a VIP lounge , spa , fitness 20 lock module 703 to unlock the door . The access panel 705 

facility , elevator bank , or the like ) simply by walking up to additionally communicates with a central reservation server 

the door , reaching out to grasp the handle , and opening the 21 of the guest engagement system 10 to securely retrieve 

door that is automatically unlocked based on wireless com - information on guests permitted access to the door , and 

munications with the guests ' medallions 11 . Specifically , the determines whether or not to instruct the door lock module 

door lock 17a detects the presence of a medallion 11 in front 25 703 to unlock the door based on whether the information 

of ( or in close proximity to ) the door and unlocks the door obtained from the guest ’ s medallion 11 ( e . g . , a unique for permitted guest ( s ) or service personnel ( e . g . , stateroom encrypted identifier ) matches that of a guest permitted 

stewards , maids , or facilities engineers ) . Additionally , the access to the door . While the access panel 705 can be battery 

door lock 17a can include a display panel that provides a powered , the access panel 705 generally receives power 

visual and audio greeting to the guest and can provide 30 from an external source ( e . g . , via power over Ethernet 

real - time information about the guest ' s up - coming activities , ( POE ) ) . In some examples , the access panel 705 communi 

and / or messages from the crew , staff , or other members of cates wirelessly with the central reservation server 21 , for 

the guest ' s party . The door lock display panel can include a example via a Wi - Fi network . Generally , however , the 

panel - mounted camera used to record images and video of access panel 705 is connected to a wired network ( e . g . , an 

unauthorized persons attempting to access the room as well 35 Ethernet network ) through which it communicates wire 

as images of crew , staff members , and others who access the lessly with the central reservation server 21 and through 

room . which it receives electrical power for operation . Note that 

FIGS . 7A - 71 illustratively show an automated door lock the access panel 705 may be connected to an uninterruptible assembly 700 that provides the functionality of the door lock power supply ( UPS ) so as to be able to continue to function 

17a to automatically unlock a door based on an interaction 40 even if power received from a power grid or generator is 

with a guest ' s medallion 11 . As shown in FIG . 7A , the interrupted . automated door lock assembly 700 can be used on a ship FIGS . 7C and 7D provide detailed views of an illustrative 

( e . g . , a cruise ship ) or a hotel to selectively unlock the door access panel 705 . As shown in the figures , the access panel 

of a guest ' s room ( e . g . , a state room or hotel room ) . includes a flat - panel display ( e . g . , a 7 " touch sensitive 

Specifically , the automated door lock assembly 700 can be 45 display ) , an integrated camera , and wireless transceivers and 

used to selectively unlock the door of a guest ' s room to associated antenna ( s ) for communicating with medallions 11 

allow entry into the room . In general , the door remains via BLE and / or NFC . The flat - panel display can be used to 

unlocked at all times from the inside of the room , to allow provide greetings to guests for whom the door in unlocked , guests to exit the room unimpeded . to provide information to guests for whom the door in not 

The automated door lock assembly 700 includes a latch 50 unlocked , as well as to provide other information . Further 

assembly 701 shown in more detail in FIGS . 7E , 76 , and 71 , functions of the access panel 705 are described in more 

a door lock module 703 that selectively unlocks the latch detail below . assembly 701 , and an access panel 705 mounted proximate FIGS . 7E , 76 , and 71 provide exploded views of the latch 

to the door . The latch assembly 701 includes a latch and a assembly 701 , including the door handle / knob and door 

door handle , knob , or other mechanical component ( s ) that 55 latch mechanism . Additionally , FIG . 7E shows the door lock 

provide door handle / knob functionality , and is generally module 703 that can be located within the casing of the latch 

mounted within the door that it controls . The latch assembly assembly 701 and that controls operation of the electroni 

701 also includes an electronically controlled locking and cally controlled unlocking mechanism of the latch assembly unlocking mechanism , such as a locking mechanism con - 701 . trolled by a solenoid . The locking and unlocking mechanism 60 Additionally , as shown in FIGS . 7E , 76 , and 71 , the latch 

of the latch assembly 701 is controlled by the door lock assembly 701 includes electrical isolation sleeves mounted 

module 703 , which is an electronic module operative to send on the spindle of the door handle and configured to electri locking and unlocking signals to the electronically con - cally isolate the door handle from other portions of the latch 

trolled locking mechanism . The latch assembly 701 will assembly 701 . For example , the electrical isolation sleeves 

generally also include a mechanical locking and unlocking 65 may isolate the door handle from the latch mechanism . The 

mechanism , such as a key - based mechanism that enables the electrical isolation of the door handle can enable the door 

door to be unlocked using a physical key . handle to be used by the door lock module 703 as a 

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19 20 

communication antenna for its ISM radio . The electrical associated one - to - one with the door lock module 703 of that 

isolation of the door handle can further enable the door lock one door such that the access panel 705 can only control 

module 703 to monitor a capacitance of the door handle and unlocking of the one door and the door lock module 703 

identify changes in the capacitance of the door handle . In operates in response from commands from only that access 

one example , the door lock module 703 measures changes in 5 panel 705 . an electrical potential of the door handle by charging the In operation , the latch assembly 701 generally maintains 

door handle to a nominal voltage ( e . g . , 0 . 05 V ) and deter - the door in a locked state as a default . The access panel 705 

mining when the electrical potential of the door handle has maintains its BLE transceiver ( or the BLE transceiver of the 

returned to zero . The monitoring of capacitance performed associated sensor 15 ) activated so as to detect any beacon 

by the door lock module 703 enables the door lock module 10 signals transmitted by medallions 11 operating in proximity 703 to determine when a person touches , contacts , or is in to the access panel 705 . For this purpose , the access panel 

close proximity ( e . g . , less than a few centimeters ) to the door 705 and / or its associated sensor 15 may be configured to 

handle so as to activate the unlocking mechanism of the detect beacon signals transmitted by recognized medallions 

latch assembly 701 only when a person contacts or is in that are within a range of 2 - 4 feet from the access panel . close proximity to the door handle . 15 Thus , when a recognized medallion 11 enters the read range 

FIG . 7F shows a semi - transparent view of an alternative of the access panel 705 and / or its associated sensor 15 , the 

latch assembly 701 . As shown , the latch assembly includes access panel 705 begins to receive the periodic beacon 

an LED status indicator , shown as a translucent ring - shaped signals transmitted by the medallion 11 and initiates a door 

indicator disposed around a base of the door handle , that is unlocking sequence . used to provide status information of the door latch assem - 20 First , based on the timing of receipt of a recognized bly . In one example , the LED status indicator may provide beacon signal , the access panel 705 determines when the 

green illumination when a guest is authorized to open the next time period during which the medallion will listen for 

door and provide red illumination when a guest is denied communications from the guest engagement system 10 will 

authorization to open the door . occur . In turn , during the determined time period , the access 

FIG . 7H is a block diagram illustratively showing com - 25 panel 705 initiates a secure connection to the medallion 11 

ponents of the door lock module 703 and of the access panel across which the access panel 705 can request the medal 

705 . As shown in FIG . 7H , the door lock module 703 lion ' s unique private identifier ( e . g . , using encryption such 

includes a microprocessor controlling operation of the door as elliptic curve cryptography ( ECC ) encryption ) . The 

lock module 703 , and a memory storing instructions for unique private identifier can take the form of an encrypted 

execution on the microprocessor . The door lock module 703 30 code , such as a 48 byte encrypted code , that uniquely 

additionally includes a sensor , such as a radio frequency identifies the medallion 11 . In response to the request , the 

( RF ) , infrared ( IR ) , or capacitive proximity sensor , used to access panel 705 and medallion 11 establish a secure and / or 

determine when a guest ' s hand contacts or comes into close encrypted communication channel over which the medallion 

proximity to the door handle . The door lock module 703 provides its unique private identifier to the access panel 705 . additionally includes a short - range radio , such as a radio 35 In general , the unique private identifier is communicated 

operating on the ISM band , for encrypted wireless commu over an encrypted BLE connection . Once the unique private nication with the access panel 705 . The door lock module identifier is received , the access panel 705 activates a lock 

703 is powered by a battery and a voltage boosting converter control unit ( LCU ) that is operative to consult a local 

such as a 4 . 5 V boost converter . memory to determine whether the guest associated with the 

The access panel 705 includes a microprocessor control - 40 unique private identifier and medallion 11 are allowed 

ling operation of the access panel 705 , and memory storing access to the door at the current time . For this purpose , the 

instructions for execution on the microprocessor . The access access panel 705 maintains in local memory a white list 

panel 705 additionally includes a short - range radio , such as including records of medallions ' unique private identifiers 

a radio operating on the ISM band , for encrypted wireless that are allowed access to the door at the current and future 

communication with the door lock module 703 . The access 45 times . If the unique private identifier received from the 

panel 705 can include a back - up battery for providing medallion 11 is encrypted , the LCU decrypts the identifier 

back - up power , and generally includes a power supply and determines whether the decrypted identifier is on the 

receiving electrical power from an external source such as white list . If the access panel 705 determines that the guest 

power received over an Ethernet cable . The access panel 705 associated with the unique private identifier and medallion 

additionally includes one or more transceivers and associ - 50 11 is allowed access to the door at the current time ( e . g . , the 

ated antennas for communicating with medallions 11 , such unique private identifier is included in the white list ) , the 

as a BLE transceiver and antenna and an NFC transceiver access panel 705 displays a welcome message on its display 

and antenna . In some examples , the antenna ( s ) of the access screen and initiates door unlocking . In the alternative , if the 

panel 705 are specifically designed to wrap around an outer access panel 705 determines that the received identifier is 

edge of the display of the access panel 705 . Additionally or 55 not listed in the record of identifiers that are allowed access 

alternatively , the access panel 705 may be associated with to the door , the access panel 705 consults a reservation 

( and connected to ) a spotlight sensor 15 that is disposed on Server 21 across the network 19 to retrieve updated infor 

a ceiling directly in front of the door , and operation of the mation ( if any ) on medallion identifiers that are allowed 

access panel 705 may be based on beacon signals detected access to the door . In turn , if the received identifier is not 

by the spotlight sensor 15 and emitted from medallions 11 of 60 listed among the updated information , the access panel 705 

guests located directly in front of the door . Additionally , a determines that the guest is not allowed access to the door 

network transceiver enables the access panel 705 to com - at the current time and optionally activates its camera to 

municate across a wired or wireless network , such as across capture a picture of the guest and transmits the picture to a 

the communication network 19 of the guest engagement central server 21 . Note that in cases in which the access 

system 10 with a central reservation server 21 . In general , 65 panel 705 detects multiple medallions 11 within its vicinity , each access panel 705 is associated with one particular door the access panel 705 performs the above steps for each 

that it is located adjacent to , and the access panel 705 is detected medallion , displays a welcome message in the 

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US 10 , 045 , 184 B2 

guest ' s language of choice on its display screen identifying response to receiving the request , the medallion may switch 

each guest associated with a medallion 11 that is allowed to the bi - directional mode while continuing to transmit 

access to the door , and initiates door unlocking if at least one periodic beacon signals . of the detected medallions is on the white list . In another example , the guest engagement system 10 may 

As part of unlocking the door , the access panel 705 5 cause the medallion 11 to switch to the bi - directional mode 

activates its ISM radio and establishes a secure communi - of operation prior to the medallion 11 reaching the close 

cation channel with the ISM radio of the associated door proximity of the access panel 705 ( e . g . , prior to being within 

lock module 703 . Once the secure communication channel 2 - 4 feet of the access panel 705 ) . In the example , location 

is established and the guest or crew member is determined services provided by the guest engagement system 10 moni 

to be allowed access to the door , the access panel 705 10 tor the location of each guest within the facility via the 

transmits an arming code ( e . g . , a door unlock authorization guest ' s medallion 11 . Specifically , the network 13 of sensors 

signal ) to the door lock module 703 across the secure ISM 15 of the guest engagement system 10 continuously moni 

channel . The arming code may be sent as a message that is tors beacon signals received from medallions 11 in each 

encrypted , for example using a 128 - bit advanced encryption 15 sensor 15 of the network and identifies medallions 11 that 

standard ( AES ) . In response to receiving the arming code , are in proximity to each sensor 15 based on the received 

the door lock module 703 activates the proximity sensor beacon signals and the public identifiers contained therein . ( e . g . , a capacitive proximity sensor ) so as to monitor when Based on the monitoring of the locations of medallions 11 , the guests ( or crew member ' s ) hand contacts or comes into the guest engagement system 10 can determine whether a 

close proximity to the door handle . Upon determining that 20 recognized medallion is nearing a locked door that is asso 

the guest ' s ( or crew member ' s ) hand contacts or comes into ciated with the medallion 11 . For example , the system 10 

close proximity to the door handle , the door lock module may determine that the medallion 11 has entered a hallway 703 activates the unlocking mechanism ( e . g . , a solenoid ) of that includes a door to which the guest associated with the 

the latch assembly 701 . If the door is unlocked and opened , medallion has access to , or that the medallion 11 has reached 

the door lock module 703 can communicate that the door has 25 a pre - determined vicinity ( e . g . , 100 feet or less ) from such 

been opened to the access panel 705 and the access panel a door . In response to the determination , the guest engage 705 can , in turn , instruct the medallion 11 to return to the ment system 10 causes one or more sensors 15 that are beacon mode of operation . within communication range of the medallion 11 to transmit Optionally , the door lock module 703 can monitor when a wake command to the medallion 11 to cause the medallion a person ' s hand contacts or comes into close proximity to the 30 11 11 to switch to the bi - directional mode of operation . door handle at all times . In turn , if a door unlock authori In the foregoing example , the guest engagement system zation signal has not been received from the access panel 705 and the door lock module 703 determines that a person ' s 10 may additionally send a wake command to the access 

panel 705 of the door to which the medallion has access as hand has contacted or come into close proximity to the door 

handle , the door lock module 703 may send an unauthorized 35 the medallion 11 nears proximity of the door . In response to 

access attempt signal to the access panel 705 . In response to the wake command , the access panel can begin monitoring its BLE transceiver for any medallions 11 that are within its receiving the unauthorized access attempt signal , the access 

panel 705 activates its camera to capture a picture of the read range and are on the authorized user list ( e . g . , white list ) 

person having attempted to access the door and transmits the stored by the access panel 705 . picture to a central server 21 . 40 The description of the functioning of the automated door 

In embodiments in which the medallion 11 is configured lock assembly 700 provided above has focused on BLE 

to operate in both the bi - directional and the beacon mode of based detection and communications between the access 

operation , the door unlocking sequence described above can panel 705 and medallion 11 . However , both the access panel 

include additional steps . If the medallion 11 is operating in 705 and medallion 11 are also configured for NFC - based 

the bi - directional mode of operation , the door unlocking 45 detection and communications , and the access panel 705 

sequence can proceed as described above . Optionally , once also provides functionality for unlocking an associated door 

the door is determined to be unlocked , the door lock module based on NFC - based communications . The NFC - based 

703 can communicate that the door has been opened to the communications can be used , among other use cases , in 

access panel 705 and the access panel 705 can , in turn , situations in which a medallion ' s battery has run out and the 

communicate to the medallion 11 that the medallion can 50 medallion is thus unable to emit BLE - based beacon signals 

return to the beacon mode of operation . or engage in BLE - based communications . To support NFC 

If the medallion 11 is operating in the beacon mode of based communication , the access panel 705 periodically operation , the guest engagement system 10 may need to emits an NFC read signal or NFC interrogation signal that is 

instruct the medallion 11 to switch to the bi - directional mode used to energize any passive NFC - based devices in its 

of operation in order to enable the medallion 11 to establish 55 vicinity . If a medallion 11 is located in the vicinity of the 

the secure communication channel with the access panel 705 access panel 705 , the NFC read signal will activate the 

and provide the access panel 705 with the medallion ' s medallion ' s NFC antenna and transceiver and cause the 

unique private identifier . For this purpose , the access panel medallion 11 to provide the access panel 705 with an 

705 can , in one example , determine based on the timing of NFC - based response beacon signal including the public 

receipt of a beacon signal from the medallion when the next 60 identifier for the medallion 11 . Based on the received 

time period during which the medallion will listen for response signal , the access panel 705 can then establish a 

communications from the guest engagement system 10 will secure NFC - based communication channel with the medal 

occur . In turn , during the determined time period , the access lion 11 and proceed with door unlocking based on an 

panel 705 transmits to the medallion 11 a communication to NFC - based unlocking process analogous to the BLE - based 

cause the medallion to switch to the bi - directional mode of 65 unlocking process described above ( with the exception that 

operation . For example , the access panel 705 may transmit all communications will be performed using the NFC trans 

a request for the medallion ' s unique private identifier and , in ceiver rather than the BLE transceiver ) . The NFC - based 

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23 24 

unlocking process can also be used using NFC - enabled 15 can be mounted to or in a ceiling or wall of a facility ( e . g . , devices other than medallions , including NFC - enabled using a connector nut 813 ) , and can be used to monitor and 

access cards for example . communicate with medallions disposed within the vicinity 

In addition to sensors 15 mounted in interface devices 17 , ( e . g . , within the communication range and beam ) of the 

the guest engagement system 10 includes a sensor network 5 sensor . FIG . 8D shows the spotlight sensor when all com 

13 of stand - alone sensors 15 disposed throughout the facility ponents are mounted together . ( or facilities ) . Each sensor 15 has a known location , and the Detailed views of the antenna elements 802 that can be 

sensors 15 in the network 13 are used to track the locations mounted to the antenna PCBs 803 provided in the sensors 15 

of medallions 11 in the facility by creating a log of each such as those shown in FIGS . 8A - 8D are provided in relation 

medallion 11 detected by each sensor 15 with an associated 10 to FIGS . 8E - 8M . FIGS . SE - 8H show detailed views of the 

timestamp . Further , each sensor 15 can engage in bi - direc - antenna element 802 provided in a directional sensor such as 

tional communication with medallions 11 within its com - that shown in FIGS . 8A and 8B . The antenna element 802 

munication range , including the sensing of medallions 11 may be designed for wall or ceiling mounting locations 

through the sensing of beacon and other signals transmitted within a facility and may provide a directional sensing 

by the medallions 11 and the transmitting and receiving of 15 capability having a broad beam width for procuring linear 

signals to and from the medallions 11 . Examples of stand - polarized radiation direction to the front face of the antenna . alone sensors 15 are shown and described in FIGS . 8A - 8D . As shown in the top and side views shown in FIGS . 8E - 8G . Specifically , FIGS . 8A and 8B show views of a directional the antenna element 802 has an inverted - V shape that is 

or omni directional sensor , while FIGS . 8C and 8D show generally symmetric about a center line , and includes two 

views of a spotlight sensor . The omni directional sensor has 20 tabs extending downwardly from a main surface of the 

a long communication range ( e . g . , of 30 - 50 feet , and up to antenna that are used for mounting to the antenna PCB 803 . 100 feet or more ) extending in all directions around the The main surface of the antenna , shown in FIG . 8E , includ 

sensor ; the directional sensor has a similarly long commu - ing a rectangular central portion having symmetrical paral 

nication range ( e . g . , of 30 - 50 feet , and up to 100 feet or lelogram - shaped extensions extending from opposing sides 

more ) extending in some ( but not all ) directions around the 25 of the rectangular central portion . Illustrative dimensions of 

sensor . The spotlight sensor has a shorter beam - shaped the antenna element 802 , measured in inches , are provided communication range having a diameter that is adjustable in the figures . The dimensions provided are illustrative , and 

and can reach up to 7 - 10 feet or more , and the beam - shaped the antenna element 802 can be scaled up or scaled down 

typically has a communication range extending in a selected relative to the dimensions shown depending on the particular 

direction from the sensor for a shorter distance than the omni 30 application the antenna element 802 ( and associated sensor 

directional sensor ( e . g . , 15 feet or less ) . Note that each 15 ) is designed for . In particular , the dimensions can be 

sensor ' s communication range can be adjusted downwards selected and adjusted in order to vary the center frequency 

from the maximum range values detailed above . and impedance matching of the antenna . For example , the 

FIG . 8A shows an exploded view of the directional or dimensions provided may be selected to provide the antenna 

omni directional sensor that includes an electronics PCB 807 35 element 802 with a resonating operating frequency of 2 . 4 

and an antenna PCB 803 mounted between a base plate 811 GHz ( within the BLE operation range in the ISM band ) 

and a radome 801 . The antenna PCB 803 has an antenna when corresponding PCB ground spacing and housing element 802 mounted thereon that is communicatively con - dielectric proximity are accounted for . The lower tabs 

nected to circuitry of the antenna PCB 803 . The antenna extended downwardly from the main surface of the antenna 

element 802 has a proprietary shape such as those shown in 40 serve as a feed tap and a ground tap electrically connected 

detail in FIGS . 8E - 8H and 8K - 8N that confer the directional to the PCB 803 , and also serve to maintain the antenna 

or omni directional sensitivity to the sensor . The antenna element 802 at an appropriate height spacing from the PCB 

PCB 803 communicates with the electronics PCB 807 ground plane . through a cable 805 , and a connector 809 provides a FIGS . 81 - 8J show detailed views of the antenna element 

connection between the electronics PCB 807 and the wired 45 802 provided in a spotlight ( or spotbeam ) sensor such as that 

network 19 . The sensor 15 can be mounted to or in a ceiling shown in FIGS . 8C and 8D . The antenna element 802 may 

or wall of a facility ( e . g . , using a connector nut 813 ) , and can be designed for ceiling mounting locations ( or wall mount 

be used to monitor and communicate with medallions dis - locations at high elevation with down tilt ) within a facility 

posed within the vicinity ( e . g . , within the communication and may provide high gain and a directional narrow - beam 

range ) of the sensor . FIG . 8B shows the directional or omni 50 ( i . e . , spotlight ) sensing capability procuring circularly polar 

directional sensor when all components are mounted ized ( CP ) radiation . As shown in the top and side views 

together . shown in FIGS . 81 - 8J , the antenna element 802 has a 

FIG . 8C shows an exploded view of the spotlight sensor generally planar shape , and has a shape of a square having 

that includes an electronics PCB 807 and an antenna diagonally opposite corners removed at angles of 45 degrees mounted between a base plate 811 and a radome 801 . A 55 relative to sides of the square . The antenna element 802 of 

cosmetic base 814 can further be provided . The antenna FIGS . 81 and 8J may be mounted to the antenna PCB 803 via 

PCB 803 has an antenna element 802 mounted thereon that a foam spacer 804 , as shown in FIG . 8C . Illustrative 

is communicatively connected to circuitry of the antenna dimensions of the antenna element 802 , measured in milli 

PCB 803 . The antenna element 802 has a proprietary shape meters ( mm ) , are provided in the figures . The dimensions 

shown in detail in FIGS . 81 - 8J that confers the spotlight or 60 provided are illustrative , and the antenna element 802 can be 

spotbeam directional sensitivity to the sensor . The antenna scaled up or scaled down relative to the dimensions shown 

includes an antenna PCB 803 having a foam spacer 804 depending on the particular application the antenna element 

mounted on a surface thereof , and an antenna element 802 802 ( and associated sensor 15 ) is designed for . In particular , mounted on the foam spacer 804 . The antenna PCB 803 the dimensions can be selected and adjusted in order to vary 

communicates with the electronics PCB 807 through a cable 65 the center frequency , axial ratio , and impedance matching of 

805 , and a connector 809 provides a connection between the the antenna . For example , the dimensions provided may be 

electronics PCB 807 and the wired network 19 . The sensor selected to provide the antenna element 802 with a resonat 

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25 26 

ing operating frequency of 2 . 4 GHz ( within the BLE opera sensor ( s ) ( and / or positions of other devices , if known ) tion range in the ISM band ) when corresponding PCB having detected the medallion ' s most recently detected 

ground spacing and housing dielectric proximity are beacon signal ( s ) . In order to determine the position of a 

accounted for . medallion 11 at a higher level of granularity , the position of 

FIGS . 8K - 8N show detailed views of the antenna element 5 the medallion is determined based on the relative received 

802 provided in a circular sensor . For example , the antenna signal strength of the beacon signal measured at each of the 

element shown in FIGS . 8K - 8N may provide omni - direc - sensor ( s ) having received the beacon signal , and / or based on 

tional sensing , and may be used within a sensor 15 such as characteristics of the sensing range and sensing beam ( e . g . , that shown in FIGS . 8A and 8B . The antenna element 802 sensing range and sensing direction ) of the sensor ( s ) . In 

may be designed for ceiling mounting locations within a 10 particular , when beacon signals from a medallion 11 are 

facility and provide a linear polarized broad beam width for received by three or more sensors 15 , the relative received 

procuring an azimuth omni - directional sensing pattern . As signal strength of the beacon signal at each of the sensors 15 

shown in the top and side views shown in FIGS . 8K - 8M , the ( and / or the delay between reception times of the beacon 

antenna element 802 has a generally symmetric shape about signal at each of the sensors 15 ) can be used to triangulate 

a center line , and includes two tabs extending downwardly 15 the position of the medallion 11 relative to the known 

from a main surface of the antenna that are used for locations of each of the sensors 15 . mounting to the antenna PCB 803 ( as shown , e . g . , in FIG . The monitoring of the locations of medallions 11 within 

8A ) . The main surface of the antenna shown in FIG . 8K has the facility can be performed not only by sensors 15 of the 

a generally circular shape . Illustrative dimensions of the sensor network 13 but also by sensors 15 mounted in 

antenna element 802 , measured in inches , are provided in 20 interface devices 17 of the guest engagement system 10 . For 

the figures . The dimensions provided are illustrative , and the example , the access panels 705 of automated door lock 

antenna element 802 can be scaled up or scaled down assemblies 700 located throughout the facility can be used to 

relative to the dimensions shown depending on the particular detect all medallions 11 passing by the access panels 705 . application the antenna element 802 ( and associated sensor The access panels 705 can relay the identity of all detected 

15 ) is designed for . In particular , the dimensions can be 25 medallions 11 to a central location server which maintains a 

selected and adjusted in order to vary the center frequency log of all medallions ' locations with associated timestamps . and impedance matching of the antenna . For example , the Additionally , the monitoring of locations can be performed dimensions provided may be selected to provide the antenna through sensing of medallions 11 by BLE - or NFC - enabled 

element 802 with a resonating operating frequency of 2 . 4 devices , such as BLE - or NFC - enabled mobile devices , GHz ( within the BLE operation range in the ISM band ) 30 tablet computers , or interactive displays that are in commu 

when corresponding PCB ground spacing and housing nication with servers 21 of the guest engagement system 10 . dielectric proximity are accounted for . The lower tabs The BLE - or NFC - enabled mobile devices , such as guests ' 

extended downwardly from the main surface of the antenna mobile devices or staff members ' tablets , may detect medal 

serve as a feed tap and a ground tap electrically connected lions 11 located within the devices ' communication ranges 

to the PCB 803 , and also serve to maintain the antenna 35 and report to the central location server the identities of 

element 802 at an appropriate height spacing from the PCB detected medallions 11 along with timestamps of detection 

ground plane . The feed and ground taps can provide for and location information for the device ( if available ) . different current flow directions on the surface of the antenna In order to provide continuous real - time monitoring of the 

radiation element 802 . locations of medallions 11 , each of the sensors and devices 

In general , the sensors 15 mounted in interface devices 17 40 that detect medallions 11 relay the identity of all detected 

of the guest engagement system 10 , such as the antennas of medallions 11 along the time - of - detection timestamps to a 

access panels 705 used to unlock doors , are adjusted to have same central location server . The central location server thus 

limited range ( e . g . , 2 - 4 feet ) so as to only sense medallions maintains a log of all medallions ' locations with the asso 

11 of guests that are in close proximity to the interface ciated timestamps . The central location server can thus be 

devices 17 . Additionally , the sensors 15 of interface devices 45 used to identify each medallion ' s most recent detected 

17 can be directional or spotlight type sensors operative to location based on the most recent log entry for the medallion 

detect medallions 11 in only selected directions . In this way , 11 or , if appropriate , based on two or more of the most recent 

a sensor associated with an access panel 705 may be entries in the log for the medallion 11 ( e . g . , to provide operative to only detect medallions 11 that are disposed increased location accuracy by combining two different 

within a limited distance in any direction from the sensor , 50 location sensing methodologies ) . In this way , the guest 

while a sensor of a payment terminal or vending machine engagement system 10 provides real - time ( or near real - time ) 

may only detect medallions 11 that are disposed within a evaluations of each medallion ' s location . The location infor 

limited angular range ( e . g . , directly in front of the payment mation can further be used by the guest engagement system 

terminal or vending machine ) and within a limited distance 10 to provide additional services to guests or others , for 

( e . g . , less than 2 feet ) from the sensor . 55 example to provide notification events to systems that are 

As noted above , the sensors 15 are disposed throughout used to activate personalized interactions when a medallion 

the facility , and are used to monitor the locations of medal - 11 is determined to arrive in an area , move around an area , lions 11 throughout the facility and provide services to linger in an area for a determined amount of time , or exiting 

guests based on the sensed signals . Specifically , the sensors an area or space equipped with sensors 15 . 15 are used by the guest engagement system 10 to provide 60 The location - based services can further be enhanced 

location information to the guest engagement system 10 at through the use of sensors 15 located near points of entry 

selectable levels of precision . At a low level of precision , the and / or exit from a facility . Specifically , if the last entry location of a medallion 11 is identified based on the identity relating to a particular medallion 11 in the log maintained by ( ies ) of the one or more sensors 15 or other devices that the central location server is for an entry / exit location and 

detect beacon signals from the medallion 11 at any given 65 the log does not include any further detections of the 

time . In this way , the position of the medallion at any time medallion 11 at later times in the facility — the system may 

can be approximated based on the known positions of the determine that the medallion 11 ( and its associated guest ) 

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have exited the facility . In turn , when the medallion 11 is municate information to guests during the mustering or 

once again detected at the same ( or a different ) entry / exit evacuation operation . For this purpose , the guest engage location , the medallion may be determined to have re - ment system 10 relies on the access panels 705 , interactive 

entered the facility . The guest engagement system 10 may displays 17c , portals 17d , and the like that are located 

thereby maintain a log of medallions 11 that are in the 5 throughout the facility . Specifically , the guest engagement facility and a log of medallions 11 that have exited the system 10 provides mustering and / or evacuation instructions facility . Notification can be provided to users based on these on the displays of interface devices 17 , such as arrows ( or logs , for example to inform another guest that their family more detailed instructions ) pointing towards mustering sta member has exited the facility and / or returned to the facility . tions and evacuation routes . The instructions can addition In addition to the functions described above , the guest 10 ally be customized to the individual guests whose medal engagement system 10 can additionally be used for maritime lions are detected in the vicinity of each interface device 17 , mustering , emergency evacuations , or the like . Specifically , for example to instruct one guest to evacuate in a particular since the guest engagement system 10 includes sensors 15 

throughout the facility ( or ship ) that are configured to direction while instructing a different guest to evacuate in 

monitor the positions of medallions 11 , the guest engage - 15 af 15 another direction ( e . g . , to enable the other guest to regroup 

ment system 10 maintains current up - to - date information on with other guests in his / her party ) . The instructions can also 

guests ' locations within the facility at all times based on the provide information to guests regarding other guests in a 

monitored locations of all guests ' medallions 11 . Based on same party , for example to provide a guest with information 

the current information on guests ' locations , the guest on the current location , assigned mustering location , and / or 

engagement system 10 can dynamically assign guests to 20 assigned evacuation route of the guest ' s child , spouse , or 

mustering stations or evacuations routes when a mustering friend . The instructions can also be customized for each 

or evacuation operation is undertaken . Specifically , the guest guest to display in the guest ' s language of choice . engagement system 10 can dynamically assign guests to The guest engagement system 10 provides services and 

mustering stations or evacuations routes in such a way as to engagement with guests through a variety of different 

assign guests to the mustering station or evacuation route 25 modalities and terminals . For example , as shown in FIG . 9 , that is closest to their current position when the mustering or the guest engagement system 10 can provide services and 

evacuation operation is triggered . The guest engagement engagement through end devices 18 such as mobile devices 

system 10 can additionally or alternatively dynamically 18a ( e . g . , smartphones ) , tablet computers 18b , interactive 

assign guests to mustering stations or evacuation routes so as displays 18c ( e . g . , touch - enabled display screens ) , web 

to avoid overloading a particular mustering station or evacu - 30 enabled televisions ( e . g . , stateroom televisions ) , desktop 

ation route when the mustering or evacuation operation is computers 18d and / or web interfaces , kiosks , among others . triggered . For example , in situations in which a large number In general , an end device 18 includes a processor , memory 

of guests are concentrated within a certain portion of the storing program instructions , a display , and a user input 

facility ( e . g . , a large number of guests are in or near the stern interface such as a touch - screen , although additional com 

of the ship ) , the dynamic assignment may be used to assign 35 ponents ( or fewer components ) may be used . Some end 

certain guests to mustering stations or evacuation routes in devices 18 , including interactive displays 18c , web - enabled 

or near the bow of the ship to ensure that no mustering televisions , kiosks , and the like , may also function as 

station or evacuation route is overloaded with guests . Addi - interface devices 17 , and vice versa . In particular , end 

tionally , the guest engagement system 10 can monitor the devices 18 that are BLE - enabled ( e . g . , include a BLE 

position of medallions and guests during the mustering or 40 transceiver ) can generally function as interface devices 17 . evacuation operation , and dynamically change a particular Conversely , interface devices 17 that include a user input 

guest ' s assigned mustering station or evacuation route based interface and provide access to the guest engagement appli 

on updated real - time information obtained based on the cation described in more detail below can function as end 

real - time monitoring of guests ' changes in location ( i . e . , devices 18 . movement ) through the facility . In this manner , a guest ' s 45 The services and engagement provided by the guest 

assigned mustering station or evacuation route can be engagement system 10 may be provided through an appli 

updated if the guest follows an unexpected route during the cation or other executable program stored on and executed 

mustering or evacuation operation , for example if the guest by the end devices 18 such as a dedicated guest engagement 

follows an unexpected route to retrieve a child during the application . The services and engagement may alternatively 

mustering or evacuation operation or if the guest must divert 50 or additionally be provided through web - based interfaces , around a smoke - filled corridor during the evacuation such as a guest engagement interface executed on a server 21 

The guest engagement system 10 can further be used to accessed through a web browser executed by an end device 

automatically identify rooms that are cleared of all guests 18 and having a communication connection to the server 21 . during the mustering or evacuation operation , for example The services and engagement generally rely at least in part 

by determining that no medallions are present in the room 55 on data and information retrieved from the servers 21 of the 

and / or determining that all guests associated with the room guest engagement system 10 via network connections ( e . g . , are located elsewhere in the facility ( based on the monitored Internet connections ) of the end devices 18 , although certain 

locations of the guests ' medallions ) . Conversely , the guest services and engagement can be provided without network 

engagement system 10 can be used to automatically identify connections or without retrieving data and information from 

rooms that have guests present therein during the mustering 60 the servers 21 . For purposes of communicating with the 

or evacuation operation ( based on the monitored locations of servers 21 , the end devices 18 are shown in FIG . 9 as having 

the guests ' medallions ) , and to direct crew and / or emergency wireless ( e . g . , in the case of end devices 18a and 186 ) or 

responders to the identified rooms to assist guests in the wired ( e . g . , in the case of end devices 18c and 18d ) 

evacuation . connections to the servers 21 through the communication 

The above - identified features of the guest engagement 65 network 19 . Note that communication network 19 can 

system 10 used in mustering and / or evacuations are enabled , include one or more of a local area network ( LAN ) , a wide 

in part , by the guest engagement system ' s ability to com area network ( WAN ) , the Internet , and the like . 

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As shown in FIG . 9 , some of the end devices 18 through the guest may only have access to limited features of the 

which services and engagement are provided may be BLE application and the guest may notably not have access to 

enabled devices , such as BLE - enabled mobile devices 18a , user profile - based information . In instances in which the 

tablet computers 18b , or interactive displays 18c . When such guest engagement application runs on a BLE - enabled end 

an end device 18 executes the guest engagement application , 5 device 18 , the guest engagement application can listen for 

the guest engagement application may optionally activate BLE beacon signals from guests ' medallions 11 and , in 

the BLE transceiver of the end device 18 to provide addi - response to detecting one or more beacon signals , can 

tional services to a user . For example , the guest engagement provide a log - on page personalized for the guest ( s ) that are 

application may activate the BLE transceiver of the end automatically identified based on the detected beacon sig 

device 18 and use the activated BLE transceiver to listen for 10 nals . Guests can then authenticate themselves to log into the 

beacon signals emitted by medallions 11 located within a application by entering a password or personal identification 

BLE communication range of the end device 18 . The guest number ( PIN ) into the application . If the application runs on 

engagement application may optionally report to the servers an end device 18 that is not BLE - enabled , and / or if a guest ' s 

21 the identifiers of medallions 11 from which beacon medallion beacon signal is not detected by the application , signals were received along with a timestamp of receipt and 15 a guest can identify and authenticate themself to log into the 

location information for the end device 18 ( when available ) . application by entering both a username and a password or 

The guest engagement application may further use the personal identification number ( PIN ) into the application . activated BLE transceiver to engage in two - way communi - Note that when the application runs on a guest ' s own mobile 

cation with medallions 11 from which beacon signals were device 18a , the guest can select to remain logged into the 

received . In one example , the guest engagement application 20 application in order not to have to enter a password or PIN 

may cause the mode of operation of a medallion 11 to each time the guest accesses the application . Otherwise , the 

change . In one use case , the guest engagement application guest may be automatically logged out of the application if 

may cause the BLE transceiver of the end device 18 to emit no user interaction occurs for a pre - determined length of 

an advertisement from the guest engagement system , so as time . Additionally , in cases in which log - on was based on 

to cause any medallion 11 in its communication range to exit 25 detecting a medallion beacon signal , the guest may be 

the sleep mode when the medallion 11 detects the adver - automatically logged out if the medallion beacon signal is no 

tisement . In another use case , the guest engagement appli - longer detected by the application or end device 18 for a 

cation may cause a medallion 11 operating in the beacon pre - determined length of time or if the medallion 11 is 

mode to enter the bi - directional mode or the sleep mode of determined to have stepped away from the end device 18 . operation , or cause a medallion 11 operating in the bi - 30 Once logged in , the application may automatically access 

directional mode to enter the beacon mode or the sleep mode and securely retrieve profile information associated with the 

of operation . identified and authenticated guest from the servers 21 . The 

In some instances , the guest engagement application may application can also be used to prompt a guest to provide , additionally or alternatively activate the NFC transceiver of complete , or review missing profile information that is then 

an end device 18 when the application is executed on an 35 uploaded from the application to the servers 21 . Profile 

NFC - enabled end device 18 . In such situations , the appli - information may include a name , identity photograph , book 

cation can be used to detect medallions 11 and engage in ing and other reservation information , payment information 

communication with medallions 11 via NFC . In particular , ( e . g . , information on stored payment modalities for the 

while the description herein is focused on BLE - based com - guest ) , and the like . The profile information can also include 

munications between end devices 18 and medallions 11 , the 40 additional data associated with the guest , including infor 

features described in the BLE - based context can similarly be mation on the guest ' s past , present , and future activities 

enabled through NFC - based communication between the ( determined based on bookings and reservations and on 

end device 18 and medallions 11 when using an NFC - location data ) , past , present , and future locations ( deter 

enabled end device 18 . mined based on bookings and reservations and on location 

References to the guest engagement application through - 45 data ) , past , present , and scheduled future orders and pref 

out this document refer not only to instances in which the erences , and the like . The profile information can also 

guest engagement application takes the form of an applica - include pictures , music , video , and other types of data 

tion or other executable program stored on and executed by associated with the guest . an end device 18 but also refer to instances in which the Through guest - focused versions of the application , the 

guest engagement application takes the form of a web - based 50 guest engagement system 10 provides a variety of services 

interface or other terminal - based interface . In general , user to guests . For example , a guest using of the application can 

interfaces provided through application - based and web use the application to review the guest ' s bookings , registra 

based interfaces will be similar , although certain function - tion , and reservations , including past , present , and future 

alities of the guest engagement application may only be registrations for lodging , restaurants , shows , activities , and 

offered on application - based or on web - based interfaces . 55 the like . The guest can also use the application to receive 

Additionally , references to the guest engagement application information on and make reservations for available lodging , may refer to different versions of the application , including restaurants , shows , activities , and the like . The information 

guest - focused versions that include only functionalities may be based on recommendations for future bookings , offered to guests , staff - focused versions that include addi - registrations , and reservations personalized for the guest 

tional functionalities offered to hosts or staff , supervisor - 60 based on the guest ' s profile information . The guest can also 

focused versions that include functionalities offered to use the application to review photographs , videos , and other 

supervisors overseeing staff members , and administrator media items make available by the guest engagement system 

versions that include functionalities offered to system 10 , including photographs , videos , and other media items 

administrators only . that are associated with the guest . The association of media 

In order to use the guest engagement application through 65 items with the guest can be based on matching guest profile 

an end device 18 , a guest generally needs to identify and information with tagged information for the media items , authenticate themselves . If not identified and authenticated , such as profile and tag information indicating that a video 

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was taken at a location visited by the guest ' s medallion , staff will access the staff - focused version of the guest profile and tag information indicating that a photograph engagement application on a tablet computer 18b end device 

includes a person associated with the guest based on the that is BLE - enabled ( e . g . , the end device includes a BLE 

person ' s medallion having been detected in proximity to the transceiver and BLE antenna ) , although in some situations 

photographer at the time the photograph was taken , or the 5 hosts and staff will access the application through other end 

like . The application may also provide access to games devices ( e . g . , interactive displays 18c , portals , access panels ( optionally including wager - based games ) , shopping , and 705 of door locks , and the like ) . other functionalities . In one example , the staff - focused version of the guest The guest engagement system 10 may also allow guests to engagement application can be used by a staff member to 

view live shows using the guest - focused version of the 10 engage with guests . For this purpose , the guest engagement 

application . The show can be viewed , for example , through application uses the BLE transceiver of the end device 18 to 

the guest ' s stateroom television on which the guest engage - detect any medallions 11 within the vicinity ( e . g . , BLE 

ment application can be accessed . In detail , the guest using communication range ) of the end device 18 . Specifically , the 

the guest engagement application may select to view a live BLE transceiver is used to detect beacon signals emitted by show through the application , such as a show occurring in a 15 medallions 11 within the vicinity of the end device 18 . When 

theater or other venue within the facility in which the guest one or more beacon signals is / are detected , the staff - focused 

engagement system 10 is installed or outside of the facility . version of the guest engagement application is configured to 

In response to the selection , the guest is presented with a live retrieve the public identifier of each medallion that is 

audio and / or video stream of the event . Additionally , the included in the emitted beacon signals , and to retrieve from 

application allows the guest to interface with a performer 20 the servers 21 profile information associated with the 

participating in the live show . In detail , the application can retrieved identifier ( s ) and associated guest ( s ) . The retrieved 

allow the guest to send instant messages or other feedback profile information generally includes a photograph and 

to the performer for example by typing a message for the name ( or nick - name ) associated with the guest . The 

performer on an user input interface of the application ( e . g . , retrieved profile information is then provided on a display of 

an on - screen keyboard or a remote control for a stateroom 25 the end device 18 to enable the staff member or host to 

television ) or selecting a feedback button ( e . g . , a “ clap ” engage with the guest ( s ) based on the retrieved profile 

button , a “ laugh " button , a “ thumbs - up ” button , a “ heart ” information . For example , based on the retrieved profile 

button , or the like ) . The instant messages and feedback are information , the staff member can visually identify the 

then displayed on a screen provided in front of the performer guest , greet the guest by name or nick - name , and discuss the 

and / or provided as auditory feedback to the performer ( e . g . , 30 guest ' s upcoming bookings with the guest . by activating pre - recorded clapping or laughing sounds ) so In situations in which profile information for multiple 

as to notify the performer of feedback received from the guests is received by the end device 18 , the guest engage guest and enable the performer to engage with the guestm ent application may display profile information for the 

during the show . multiple guests . In some examples , the profiles may be 

In some examples , the guest engagement application 35 displayed in an order of estimated distance of each guest 

provides communication functionalities to enable users of from the end device 18 , where the estimated distance can be 

the application ( including both guests and staff ) to commu - determined based on a signal strength or transmission delay 

nicate with each other using the application . The commu - associated with the respective BLE beacon signal associated 

nication functionalities can include text , audio , and / or video with each guest ' s medallion 11 and detected by the end 

based communications between users such as chat - based 40 device 18 . communications , instant messaging ( IM ) , voice - mail or Based on the retrieved profile information , the staff mem 

video voice - mail , and the like . In addition , the communica - ber or host can assist the guest . For example , the staff 

tions functionalities can allow users to obtain information on member or host can review the guest ' s bookings , registra 

other linked users including position information . Linked tion , and reservations , provide information and / or make 

users can include , in the case of a guest , other guests in 45 recommendations or reservations for future bookings , reg 

his / her party ( e . g . , other guests that are part of a same istration , and reservations personalized for the guest based 

reservation , such as children , parents , or the like ) or guests on the guest ' s profile information ; place orders for drinks 

who have accepted link request to the guest , or in the case and food for delivery to the guest ; assist the guest in finding 

of a staff member , one or more persons for whom the staff their way through the facility ; or the like . The application 

member is to provide a service ( e . g . , a guest having ordered 50 may also enable the staff member or host to engage in games 

food or drink to be delivered by the staff member ) . For ( optionally including wager - based games ) with the guest , example , once users are linked , the communication func - and provide further functionalities . tionality of the guest engagement application may provide The guest engagement system 10 can further provide general location information to a guest ( e . g . , to indicate that payment functionality through the staff - focused version of 

another guest is in the facility or has exited the facility ) 55 the application . As described above , medallions 11 can be 

and / or precise location information ( e . g . , to indicate that the used for payments by establishing a secure communication 

other guest is in their stateroom ) . The communication func channel between the medallion 11 and a payment terminal 

tionality may also indicate whether another linked guest is ( e . g . , 17b ) , authenticating the identity of the medallion 11 

available for instant communication and , in some examples , across the secure communication channel using the medal 

may identify guests having left the facility as being unavail - 60 lion ' s unique private identifier or other encrypted informa 

able for communication . tion stored in the medallion 11 and , based on the authenti 

The guest engagement system 10 provides additional cated identity , processing a payment transaction using 

functionality through staff - focused versions of the guest payment information associated with the authenticated 

engagement application . The staff - focused versions of the medallion 11 . Such payment transactions can be performed 

guest engagement application can be executed on end 65 over BLE or NFC communications between the medallion 

devices 18 used by hosts and staff to provide services and 11 and payment terminal ( e . g . , 17b ) , and can be performed 

engagement to guests of the facility . Commonly , hosts and by vending machines , cash registers , and other payment 

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terminals in which a staff member or cashier need not be identifier for a medallion 11 that is broadcast as part of the 

present . In addition , a streamlined payment process can be device ' s beacon signal ) , an identifier for a location ( e . g . , used through the staff - focused version of the application . identifier ( s ) of the location ( s ) of the sensor ( s ) 15 or other 

Specifically , through the staff - focused version of the appli antenna or device having detected the beacon signal , and / or 

cation , a staff member can perform authentication of the 5 a more precise location determination based on triangula 

guest through visual recognition of the guest based on tion , multilateration , or other location - determining method ) , comparing the guest ' s appearance with the photograph and a timestamp . The location determination performed by 

stored in the guest ' s profile . In particular , the guest engage the guest engagement system 10 can thus be performed 

ment system 10 may prompt a staff member using the based on sensors of the sensor network 13 as well as based 

staff - focused version of the application to authorize a pay - 10 on beacon signals detected by end devices 18 , by interface 

ment to a guest account . The prompt may be presented in devices 17 , and the like . As noted previously , the location 

response to the staff member selecting through the applica - determination may be performed at different levels of pre tion to place an order on behalf of the guest ( e . g . , an order cision depending on the types of sensors 15 through which 

for food or drink , a registration for an excursion , a booking beacon signals have been detected ( e . g . , spotlight sensors 

for seats at a show , a room upgrade , a payment to participate 15 provide more detailed location information than omni - di 

in a game , or the like ) , for example . The prompt may rectional sensors ) , depending on the number of sensors 15 

generally rely on two complementary identification modali having detected the beacon signals , depending on whether 

ties in order to allow the staff to authorize the payment , triangulation , multilateration , transmission delay , or signal 

although different numbers of identification modalities ( in - strength information from multiple sensors is used , and the 

cluding a single identification modality ) may be used . For 20 like . example , the prompt may rely on the end device 18 that The wayfinding functionality provided by the guest 

executes the staff - focused version of the application detect engagement system 10 , including the wayfinding provided ing the medallion 11 of the guest to whom payment is to be through the guest engagement application , is thus provided 

charged ( e . g . , using BLE and NFC communication modali - based on location determination performed by the guest 

ties to detect the medallion 11 ) , retrieving profile informa - 25 engagement system 10 . Specifically , a guests ' location is 

tion ( including a photograph ) for the detected medallion 11 determined by a server 21 of the guest engagement system 

from the server 21 , displaying the photograph of the guest 10 by determining a location of the user ' s medallion 11 and 

associated with the medallion 11 , prompting the staff mem - reporting the determined location to the guest through the 

ber to visually confirm that the guest with whom the staff guest engagement application . For example , the guest loca 

member is interacting matches the displayed photograph 30 tion may be displayed superimposed on a map or on a 

and , upon receiving confirmation from the staff member that three - dimensional model of the ship shown on a user inter 

the guest matches the photograph , processing the payment . face of the application provided on the end device 18 

In the example , the two complementary identification currently in use by the guest . In this way , the guest ' s position 

modalities used are detection of a medallion 11 and visual is not generally determined by the end device 18 in use by confirmation of a guest ' s identity , although other modalities 35 the guest , but the guest ' s position is instead generally ( and different numbers and combinations thereof ) can be determined by the guest engagement system 10 ( e . g . , by a 

used in other examples . server 21 of the guest engagement system 10 ) based on a 

The guest engagement system 10 also provides wayfind location of the guest ' s medallion 11 as detected by the sensor 

ing functionality , and provides an interface for wayfinding network 13 of the guest engagement system 10 . through the guest engagement application . The wayfinding 40 Note that as described above , the sensor network 13 of the 

functionality provided by the guest engagement system 10 guest engagement system 10 can extend to multiple different 

can be used for wayfinding within a moving reference frame facilities including facilities located on and facilities located 

as well as within a fixed reference frame . For example , in the off of a ship . The guest engagement system 10 can thus be 

case of wayfinding on a cruise ship , traditional location used to provide accurate location determination and way determination systems such as GPS cannot readily be used 45 finding in any of the facilities , including fixed facilities ( e . g . , for multiple reasons . First , the cruise ship can move , and land - based ) , moving facilities ( e . g . , ship - based ) , and facili 

wayfinding within the ship must therefore be based on the ties including both fixed and moving components ( e . g . , moving reference frame of the ship rather than a fixed ( e . g . , facilities accessed by cruise passengers during a cruise , land - based ) reference frame . As a result , GPS - based location which may include both ship - based and land - based facili 

determination and other fixed - reference frame location 50 ties ) . In such cases , the guest engagement system 10 can 

determinations are of limited use since a user ' s GPS - based automatically determine a guest ' s position accordingly to 

location cannot be used to determine where the user is the appropriate fixed or moving reference frame depending located relative to the moving ship . Second , the cruise ship on whether the guest is currently positioned on a fixed ( e . g . , includes substantial masses of metal and other surfaces land - based ) or moving ( e . g . , ship - based ) reference frame , which interfere with the propagation of GPS - based signals 55 and provide location information through the guest engage 

( such that GPS signals cannot be received inside the ship ) ment application in the reference frame determined to cor 

and / or cause substantial signal noise as a result of electro - respond to the guest ' s current position . magnetic signals bouncing off of metallic surfaces . As a As detailed above , the guest engagement system 10 can 

result , traditional location determination systems are gener determine the position / location of a guest based on the 

ally not effective for wayfinding on a ship . 60 medallion 11 , and more particularly based on the locations 

In order to address the shortcomings noted above , the at which beacon signals emitted by the medallion 11 are 

guest engagement system 10 provides its own wayfinding detected . The detection relies on operation of the sensors 15 

functionality based on the network of sensors 13 of the guest of the system 10 , and more specifically on the known 

engagement system 10 . In detail , the guest engagement location at which each sensor 15 is installed and the sensing 

system 10 maintains a database of locations at which medal - 65 range of each sensor ( e . g . , shape and orientation of a 

lions 11 have been detected . Each record in the database directional sensing range ) . The detection can also rely on 

includes an identifier for the medallion ( e . g . , the public detection of beacon signals by end devices 18 including end 

of 

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devices 18 that have variable locations such as mobile engagement system 10 based on the detected location of the 

devices 18a and tablet computers 18b . In detail , in the case other guest ' s medallion 11 ) . The locations may be updated 

of end devices 18 , the locations of end devices 18 having in real - time as the user and guest move about the facility , and 

fixed locations can be stored by servers 21 of the guest the wayfinding directions may correspondingly be updated 

engagement system 10 and the stored location information 5 in real - time . can be used to determine the locations of detected medal - The functionalities of the guest engagement system 10 

lions 11 described above can enable the following services to be 

In the case of movable end devices 18 , the guest engage - provided ( described in the illustrative context of a cruise 

ment system 10 can rely on two sources of information to ship example ) 

determine a current location of an end device 18 and thereby 10 The guest engagement system 10 , through the guest 

infer locations of medallions 11 detected by the end device engagement application , enables guests to engage with the 

18 . First , the guest engagement system 10 can receive system from outside of the facility in which the system is 

periodic reports from end devices 18 including identifiers of installed . For example , guests can engage from home by 

medallions 11 from which beacon signals were detected , and accessing their profile through a web - based version of the 

can infer the location of a medallion 11 by determining the 15 application or through an end device 18 ( e . g . , mobile phone 

location of the end device 18 from which the report was 18a , tablet computer 18b , desktop computer 18d , or the like ) received . The guest engagement system 10 can then deter - running the application . Guests can then , at their leisure , mine the location of the end device 18 based on the identity populate their guest profile by inputting any required docu 

of a Wi - Fi or other wireless access point through which the mentation such as passport information , completing health 

end device 18 is connected to the communication network 20 forms and travel details , and inputting a preferred form of 

19 of the system 10 . For this purpose , the guest engagement payment . The guests can also upload a photo , create a digital 

system 10 maintains a database identifying the mounting avatar to further personalize their profile , and arrange or 

location of each wireless access point in the facility , and uses book services for example to have luggage picked up for 

the database to identify the location of end devices 18 and expedited delivery direct to their stateroom . medallions 11 detected by the end devices 18 . The identity 25 Guests can further engage when in an airport — notably in 

of the wireless access point can be reported to the guest cases in which guests have obtained their medallions 11 in 

engagement system 10 by the end device 18 , or determined advance of travel . For example , in the case of guests 

by the guest engagement system 10 based on header infor - travelling to a facility in which a guest engagement system 

mation included in packets received from the end device 18 . 10 is operative , the guests may be met at the destination 

Second , as part of the periodic reports received from end 30 airport by staff members . In the example , staff members 

devices 18 and identifying medallions 11 detected by the end stationed at the airport may be equipped with end devices 18 

devices , the guest engagement system 10 may receive loca - running the guest engagement application . The staff mem 

tion information of the end devices 18 when such informa - bers may use the end devices 18 and the application to detect 

tion is available . The location information reported by the medallions 11 of arriving guests , retrieve profile information 

end device 18 may be a location determined by the end 35 for the guests including photographs , and recognize the 

device 18 based on the end device ' s own position determi - guests based on the proximity of the medallions 11 and 

nation function such as a GPS - based position determination . visual recognition of the guests based on the photographs . In such situations , the guest engagement system 10 can use The staff members can thus personally welcome the guests , 

the reported location information provided by the end device confirm their documentation status , and direct them through 

18 to determine the location of medallions 11 detected by the 40 the airport ( e . g . , to direct the guests to a fleet of motor coach 

end device 18 . The guest engagement system 10 can further vehicles destined for a port terminal ) . use information on location of the moving reference frame In transit in the motor coach vehicles , guests can again ( e . g . , a GPS location of the ship on which the end device 18 access the guest - focused application through their end 

is travelling ) to determine the position of the end device 18 devices 18 ( e . g . , mobile phones 18a or tablet computers 186 ) 

relative to the moving reference frame . 45 to explore options provided at the destination facility ( e . g . , The wayfinding functionality can be used by the guest the cruise ship , in one example ) , book activities and learn 

engagement system 10 in order to enable a user of the guest more about the people , places and cultures they will come to 

engagement application to locate another guest or staff experience . member by tracking the other guest or staff member in real Additionally , once at the cruise terminal ( e . g . , in the cruise 

time . This guest tracking functionality can be used by a guest 50 ship example ) , guests may be able to board the ship with 

to locate another guest ( e . g . , a friend , spouse , child , . . . ) as minimal further interaction with staff members since the 

well as by a staff member or host to locate a guest ( e . g . , to guests are already equipped with their medallions 11 which 

deliver a food , beverage , or other order , or to assist the guest function as the key to their stateroom . Additionally , staff 

in another manner ) , among other circumstances . The guest members in the terminal may use end devices 18 running the 

tracking functionality enables one user of the application to 55 staff - focused application to identify arriving guests , identify 

be provided through the guest engagement application with guests who haven ' t yet completed the registration process , information on the other guest ' s current location as deter - and approach those guests in order to assist them with 

mined by the guest engagement system 10 , including a finalizing the process . 

display of the other guest ' s current location displayed super Further examples of interface devices 17 that can be used 

imposed on a map or on a three - dimensional model of the 60 as part of the guest engagement system 10 are gaming 

ship ( or other facility ) shown on a user interface of the stations 100 such as that shown in FIG . 10 . The gaming 

application . The guest tracking functionality also enables the stations 100 provide environments in which guests can 

one user to be provided with wayfinding directions to the engage in gaming , including wager - based gaming , coopera 

other guest ' s current location based on a combination of the tive gaming with other guests , and head - to - head gaming 

user ' s location ( determined by the guest engagement system 65 against other guests . 10 based on the detected location of the user ' s medallion 11 ) Each gaming station 100 generally includes ergonomic 

and the other guest ' s location ( determined by the guest seating 101 for multiple guests ( e . g . , four guests in the 

Case 1:20-cv-22945-RNS Document 88-1 Entered on FLSD Docket 10/21/2020 Page 50 of 54
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US 10 , 045 , 184 B2 

37 

examples shown in FIG . 10 ) , although a gaming station 100 c essor of the gaming station 100 to output scents ( or 

for a single guest or modular gaming stations 100 for mixtures of scents ) having activation patterns and / or odors 

variable numbers of guests can also be used . The seating 101 that are synchronized to the game being played on the 

can position guests across from each other with a central gaming station 100 . Separate misting spouts and piping may frame positioned between the guests and supporting com - 5 be provided in the braces 107 to separately and indepen 

ponents of the gaming station . Some guests can also be dently provide misting and scents . Additionally , different 

seated next to each other , as shown in FIG . 10 . The gaming misting spouts and piping may be provided to emit different 

station 100 also includes one or more display screens 102 scents in the gaming station 100 . mounted to the central frame and used to display game play The gaming station 100 typically includes additional 

screens and images to users , and input devices 103 such as 10 sensory feedback modalities for users in addition to visual 

keyboards , touch pads , touch - sensitive displays , or the like , feedback provided through the display screens and lighting . that are mounted to the central frame and used to receive For example , the gaming station 100 typically includes 

input from users . The input devices 103 can also include speakers for auditory feedback ( e . g . , speakers mounted to 

microphones ( e . g . , a microphone array including multiple the central frame , to the seating 101 , and to the braces 107 ) , microphones disposed at different locations in the gaming 15 as well as haptic or touch feedback provided by actuators 

station 100 ) , optical sensors , and / or ultrasonic proximity mounted to the user input devices 103 and the seating 101 

sensors used to provide enhanced user input , user position among other locations . data , and / or user movement data of users within the gaming The gaming station 100 can also include one or more 

station . external facing display screens 109 on which game play 

The gaming station 100 also includes one or more sensors 20 screens and images can be displayed in real time to allow 

15 ( not shown ) that are mounted within the station 100 ( e . g . , other guests to watch a game in progress . In some examples , at hidden or discrete locations ) and are used to identify the external facing display screen 109 is touch - enabled and 

guests currently seated in the station 100 or otherwise using allows spectating guests to participate in game play and / or 

the station 100 . The sensors 15 are used to detect medallions place wagers on game play and player outcomes . In such 

11 of users of the station 100 in order to allow the users to 25 examples , the gaming station 100 can include one or more 

log into the gaming station 100 and engage in gaming . The external - facing sensors 15 disposed so as to sense medal 

sensors 15 can also be used to establish secure communi - lions 11 of guests located in front of the external facing cation connections to medallions 11 of users of the station display screen 109 . The external - facing sensors 15 can be 

100 to authenticate the medallions 11 and engage in payment used to detect medallions 11 of the guests and allow those 

transactions . In general , the sensors 15 have sensing beams 30 guests to log into the gaming station 100 via the external 

directed to the seating 101 of the gaming station 100 so as facing display screen 109 to allow the guests to participate 

to detect the medallions 11 of guests that are seated in the in or place wagers on gameplay . The external facing display 

gaming station 100 . In some examples , the sensing beams of screens 109 can also be used by guests to register for or join 

the sensors 15 are adjusted such that only medallions 11 that a queue for game play , such that the guests can be invited to 

are within the gaming station 100 can be detected by the 35 join game play in registration or queue order as seating 

sensors 15 . In an example , the sensors 15 are positioned and locations open up in the gaming station 100 . adjusted to detect medallions 11 in each seating location Operation of the gaming station 100 may be controlled by 

separately such that the gaming station can distinguish a computing platform provided within the seating 101 . The 

between guests located in each different seating location . A computing platform will typically include one or more 

seating location may be defined as an area two feet wide , 40 processors ( e . g . , three or more processors in some embodi 

zero to 5 feet from the floor , and from one foot behind the ments ) , memory storing program instructions for game play , edge of the table ( to cover a purse / bag at the users feet ) to a power source ( e . g . , including an uninterruptible power 

three feet from the edge of the table . The medallions 11 may source ( UPS ) ) , and connections to each of the displays and 

be detected when in an accessory , pocket ( front or back ) , or input devices 102 , 103 , and 109 . The computing platform 

bag located within a seating location . 45 will also be connected via the communication network 19 to 

In some embodiments , the gaming station 100 also the servers 21 of the guest engagement system 10 . The 

includes a canopy 105 extending above the seating 101 of computing platform is further connected to actuators con 

the gaming station 100 . In the examples of FIG . 10 , the trolling the misting spouts , as well as to controllers control 

canopy 105 is supported by two braces 107 and is formed of ling the lighting , sound , and haptic or touch feedback . The 

a semi - transparent material or a mesh material . The braces 50 various feedback modalities may be individually controlled 

107 support the canopy 105 and have integrated therein for each player seating position , such that different players 

lighting ( e . g . , LED lighting ) used to provide multi - colored can be provided with different sensory feedback ( including lighting . The lighting may be controlled by a processor of misting , scent , sound , haptic , touch , light , and display ) at 

the gaming station 100 to output lighting having an activa - any time under control of the computing platform . tion pattern and / or color pattern that is synchronized to a 55 FIGS . 11 and 12 provide functional block diagram illus 

game being played on the gaming station 100 . The braces trations of general purpose computer hardware platforms . 107 can further have integrated therein water misting spouts FIG . 11 illustrates a network or host computer platform , as 

and / or scent / fragrance misting spouts . The misting spouts may typically be used to implement a server such as any of 

may be connected to a water supply valve or a reservoir the servers 21 described herein . FIG . 12 depicts a computer 

( e . g . , a scent reservoir ) by piping extending through the 60 with user interface elements , as may be used to implement 

braces 107 and into the seating 101 of the gaming station a portal ( e . g . , 17d ) or other type of work station or terminal 

100 . The misting spouts connected to the water supply valve device of the guest engagement system 10 , although the 

may be selectively controlled by a processor of the gaming computer of FIG . 12 may also act as a server if appropriately station 100 to output water mist having an activation pattern programmed . It is believed that those skilled in the art are 

that is synchronized to a game being played on the gaming 65 familiar with the structure , programming and general opera 

station 100 . The misting spouts connected to one or more tion of such computer equipment and as a result the draw 

scent reservoirs may be selectively controlled by the pro - ings should be self - explanatory . 

Case 1:20-cv-22945-RNS Document 88-1 Entered on FLSD Docket 10/21/2020 Page 51 of 54
US 10 , 045 , 184 B2 

39 40 

A server , for example , includes a data communication claim . Rather , as the following claims reflect , inventive 

interface for packet data communication . The server also subject matter lies in less than all features of a single includes a central processing unit ( CPU ) , in the form of one disclosed embodiment . Thus the following claims are 

or more processors , for executing program instructions . The hereby incorporated into the Detailed Description , with each 

server platform typically includes an internal communica - 5 claim standing on its own as a separately claimed subject 

tion bus , program storage and data storage for various data matter . files to be processed and / or communicated by the server , While the foregoing has described what are considered to 

although the server often receives programming and data via be the best mode and / or other examples , it is understood that 

network communications . The hardware elements , operating various modifications may be made therein and that the 

systems and programming languages of such servers are 10 subject matter disclosed herein may be implemented in 

conventional in nature , and it is presumed that those skilled various forms and examples , and that the teachings may be 

in the art are adequately familiar therewith . Of course , the applied in numerous applications , only some of which have 

server functions may be implemented in a distributed fash - been described herein . It is intended by the following claims 

ion on a number of similar platforms , to distribute the to claim any and all applications , modifications and varia 

processing load . 15 tions that fall within the true scope of the present teachings . Unless otherwise stated , all measurements , values , rat - What is claimed is : 

ings , positions , magnitudes , sizes , and other specifications 1 . A guest engagement system comprising : 

that are set forth in this specification , including in the claims a plurality of portable guest devices provided to users of 

that follow , are approximate , not exact . They are intended to the guest engagement system to be carried by the users , have a reasonable range that is consistent with the functions 20 each guest device including a wireless communication 

to which they relate and with what is customary in the art to antenna and operative to emit a periodic beacon signal which they pertain . broadcasting a unique identifier of the guest device 

The scope of protection is limited solely by the claims that using Bluetooth low energy ( BLE ) communications ; 

now follow . That scope is intended and should be interpreted a sensor network comprising a plurality of sensors each 

to be as broad as is consistent with the ordinary meaning of 25 mounted at a different known location and operative to 

the language that is used in the claims when interpreted in detect the periodic beacon signals including the unique light of this specification and the prosecution history that identifiers emitted using BLE communications by por follows and to encompass all structural and functional table guest devices of the plurality of portable guest equivalents . Notwithstanding , none of the claims are devices that are proximate to the sensor ; 

intended to embrace subject matter that fails to satisfy the 30 a communication network connecting each of the plurality 

requirement of Sections 101 , 102 , or 103 of the Patent Act , of sensors of the sensor network ; and 

nor should they be interpreted in such a way . Any unin a central server communicatively connected to each of the 

tended embracement of such subject matter is hereby dis plurality of sensors of the sensor network via the 

claimed . communication network , and storing a log associating Except as stated immediately above , nothing that has been 35 each unique identifier of a portable guest device 

stated or illustrated is intended or should be interpreted to detected using BLE communications by a sensor of the 

cause a dedication of any component , step , feature , object , sensor network with the known location of the sensor 

benefit , advantage , or equivalent to the public . and a timestamp , It will be understood that the terms and expressions used wherein the plurality of sensors of the sensor network 

herein have the ordinary meaning as is accorded to such 40 comprises a plurality of access panels each configured 

terms and expressions with respect to their corresponding to control an associated electronically controlled door respective areas of inquiry and study except where specific lock , meanings have otherwise been set forth herein . Relational each access panel is operative to detect the periodic 

terms such as first and second and the like may be used beacon signals including the unique identifiers emitted 

solely to distinguish one entity or action from another 45 using BLE communications by guest devices that are 

without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such proximate thereto , and to selectively unlock the asso 

relationship or order between such entities or actions . The ciated electronically controlled door lock based on the 

terms " comprises , " " comprising , " or any other variation unique identifier of the detected periodic beacons , and 

thereof , are intended to cover a non - exclusive inclusion , each access panel comprises : 

such that a process , method , article , or apparatus that com - 50 a radio configured for wireless communication with a 

prises a list of elements does not include only those elements door lock communication module electrically con 

but may include other elements not expressly listed or nected to an electronically controlled locking mecha 

inherent to such process , method , article , or apparatus . An nism of the associated electronically controlled door 

element proceeded by “ a ” or “ an ” does not , without further lock ; 

constraints , preclude the existence of additional identical 55 a first transceiver configured for wireless BLE com 

elements in the process , method , article , or apparatus that munication with the guest devices to identify users 

comprises the element . seeking to activate the electronically controlled lock 

The Abstract of the Disclosure is provided to allow the ing mechanism ; and 

reader to quickly ascertain the nature of the technical dis a second transceiver configured for communication 

closure . It is submitted with the understanding that it will not 60 with the central server storing identifiers of users 

be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the authorized to activate the electronically controlled 

claims . In addition , in the foregoing Detailed Description , it locking mechanism . can be seen that various features are grouped together in 2 . The guest engagement system of claim 1 , wherein the 

various embodiments for the purpose of streamlining the central server comprises a central reservation server asso 

disclosure . This method of disclosure is not to be interpreted 65 ciating with each electronically controlled door lock a list of 

as reflecting an intention that the claimed embodiments unique identifiers of guest devices being authorized to 

require more features than are expressly recited in each access the electronically controlled door lock , 

Case 1:20-cv-22945-RNS Document 88-1 Entered on FLSD Docket 10/21/2020 Page 52 of 54
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30 

US 10 , 045 , 184 B2 

42 

wherein each access panel is operative to selectively based on the unique identifier emitted using BLE 

unlock the associated electronically controlled door communications by a guest device of the user . lock based on whether the unique identifier of the 8 . The guest engagement system of claim 7 , wherein the 

detected periodic beacon matches an identifier of the interface device is an interactive display panel , a vending list stored in the central server of unique identifiers of 5 terminal , a cash register , or a slot machine . guest devices authorized access to the electronically 9 . The guest engagement system of claim 7 , wherein the 

controlled door lock . central server comprises a payment server associating with 

3 . The guest engagement system of claim 1 , wherein each each unique identifier of a guest device account or payment 

access panel is further operative to report the unique iden - information of a user associated with the guest device , and 

tifiers detected using BLE communications to the central the central server is configured to process a payment for 

server via the communication network . the user in response to receiving , from an interface 

4 . The guest engagement system of claim 1 , wherein the device of the plurality of interface devices , a payment radio , first transceiver , and second transceiver of each access authorization request including the unique identifier 

panel operate according to different communication stan - 15 emitted using BLE communications by a guest device 

dards . of the user . 5 . The guest engagement system of claim 1 , wherein the 10 . The guest engagement system of claim 7 , wherein the 

sensor network comprises a plurality of sensor network central server stores guest information associating with each 

peripherals each comprising a processor , memory , and a unique identifier of a guest device profile information of the 

network transceiver configured for communication across 20 associated user including a name and a photograph of the 

the communication network , and user , and 

sensors of the sensor network are electrically connected to each interface device provides a personalized service to a 

respective sensor network peripherals and are commu user proximate thereto based on the device profile nicatively connected to the communication network via information of the user retrieved from the central server 

the respective sensor network peripherals . 25 based on the unique identifier emitted using BLE 

6 . The guest engagement system of claim 5 , wherein each communications by the guest device of the user and 

sensor network peripheral comprises a communication bus detected by the interface device . configured to support electric connections to a plurality of 11 . A guest engagement system comprising : 

sensors of the sensor network . a plurality of portable guest devices provided to users of 

7 . A guest engagement system comprising : the guest engagement system to be carried by the users , a plurality of portable guest devices provided to users of each guest device having a unique identifier and includ 

the guest engagement system to be carried by the users , ing first and second wireless communication antennas 

each guest device including a wireless communication respectively configured for Bluetooth low energy 

antenna and operative to emit a periodic beacon signal ( BLE ) and near field communication ( NFC ) commu 

broadcasting a unique identifier of the guest device 35 nications ; 

using Bluetooth low energy ( BLE ) communications ; a sensor network comprising a plurality of sensors each 

a sensor network comprising a plurality of sensors each mounted at a different location , wherein at least one 

mounted at a different known location and operative to sensor of the plurality of sensors is operative to detect 

detect the periodic beacon signals including the unique portable guest devices that are proximate thereto and 

identifiers emitted using BLE communications by por - 40 receive unique identifiers therefrom based on BLE 

table guest devices of the plurality of portable guest communication with the portable guest devices and at 

devices that are proximate to the sensor ; least another sensor of the plurality of sensors is 

a communication network connecting each of the plurality operative to detect portable guest devices that are 

of sensors of the sensor network ; proximate thereto and receive unique identifiers there 

a central server communicatively connected to each of the 45 from based on NFC communication with the portable 

plurality of sensors of the sensor network via the guest devices ; 

communication network , and storing a log associating a communication network connecting each of the plurality 

each unique identifier of a portable guest device of sensors of the sensor network ; and 

detected using BLE communications by a sensor of the a central server communicatively connected to each of the 

sensor network with the known location of the sensor 50 plurality of sensors of the sensor network via the 

and a timestamp ; and communication network , and storing a log associating 

a plurality of interface devices providing personalized each unique identifier of a portable guest device 

services to users of the guest engagement system , received using BLE or NFC communications by a 

wherein the plurality of sensors of the sensor network sensor of the sensor network , comprises a plurality of access panels each configured 55 wherein each guest device is configured to selectively 

to control an associated electronically controlled door operate according to first and second operating modes , lock , each guest device engaging in bi - directional commu 

each access panel is operative to detect the periodic nication using the first wireless communication antenna 

beacon signals including the unique identifiers emitted configured for BLE communications in the first oper 

using BLE communications by guest devices that are 60 ating mode and engaging in a beacon mode periodically proximate thereto , and to selectively unlock the asso broadcasting a beacon signal using the first wireless 

ciated electronically controlled door lock based on the communication antenna configured for BLE commu 

unique identifier of the detected periodic beacons , and nications in the second operating mode , and 

each interface device comprises an associated sensor of each sensor of the sensor network is operative to transmit 

the plurality of sensors of the sensor network , and 65 a command to a guest device in its communication 

provides the personalized services to a user proximate range to cause the guest device to change operating 

thereto based on an identity of the user determined mode between the first and second operating modes . 

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43 44 

12 . The guest engagement system of claim 11 , wherein 19 . A guest engagement system comprising : 

sensors of the plurality of sensors of the sensor network are a plurality of portable guest devices provided to users of 

operative to engage in two - way communication with guest the guest engagement system to be carried by the users , 

devices of the plurality of guest devices . each guest device having a unique identifier and includ 

13 . The guest engagement system of claim 12 , wherein 5 ing first and second wireless communication antennas 

respectively configured for Bluetooth low energy sensors of the plurality of sensors of the sensor network are ( BLE ) and near field communication ( NFC ) commu operative to engage in secure encrypted communication with nications ; guest devices of the plurality of guest devices . a sensor network comprising a plurality of sensors each 

14 . The guest engagement system of claim 11 , wherein the mounted at a different location , wherein at least one 

plurality of sensors of the sensor network comprises a sensor of the plurality of sensors is operative to detect 

plurality of access panels each configured to control an portable guest devices that are proximate thereto and 

associated electronically controlled door lock , and receive unique identifiers therefrom based on BLE 

each access panel is operative to engage in encrypted communication with the portable guest devices and at 

bi - directional communication with a guest device using 15 least another sensor of the plurality of sensors is 

operative to detect portable guest devices that are BLE communications to authenticate the guest device proximate thereto and receive unique identifiers there and selectively unlock the associated electronically from based on NFC communication with the portable controlled door lock based on the identity of the guest devices ; authenticated guest device . a communication network connecting each of the plurality 15 . The guest engagement system of claim 11 , wherein 20 of sensors of the sensor network ; and 

each guest device is configured to emit a periodic beacon a central server communicatively connected to each of the 

signal broadcasting the unique identifier of the guest device plurality of sensors of the sensor network via the 

using BLE communications , and communication network , and storing a log associating 

each sensor of the sensor network is operative to detect each unique identifier of a portable guest device 

the periodic beacon signals including the unique iden - 25 received using BLE or NFC communications by a 

tifiers emitted using BLE communications by guest sensor of the sensor network , 

devices of the plurality of guest devices that are proxi wherein the plurality of sensors of the sensor network 

mate to the sensor . comprises a plurality of vending terminals each con 

16 . The guest engagement system of claim 11 , wherein the figured authorize a payment based on a guest device , 

plurality of sensors of the sensor network comprises omni - 30 and 

directional sensors configured to detect guest devices that each vending terminal is operative to engage in encrypted 

are proximate thereto in all directions surrounding the bi - directional communication with a guest device using 

NFC communications to authenticate the guest device sensor , and spotlight sensors having a beam - shaped com and selectively authorize the payment based on the munication range configured to only detect guest devices 

that are proximate thereto within the beam - shaped commu - 35 identity of the authenticated guest device . nication range . 20 . The guest engagement system of claim 19 , wherein 

each guest device is configured to selectively operate 17 . The guest engagement system of claim 11 , wherein the according to first and second operating modes , each guest sensor network comprises a plurality of sensor network device engaging in bi - directional communication using the peripherals each comprising a processor , memory , and a 

network transceiver configured for communication across 40 40 first wireless communication antenna configured for BLE 

the communication network , and communications in the first operating mode and engaging in 

each sensor network peripheral is electrically connected a beacon mode periodically broadcasting a beacon signal 

to at least one sensor of the plurality of sensors and using the first wireless communication antenna configured 

provides a communication connection between the at for BLE communications in the second operating mode , and 

least one sensor and the communication network . 45 each sensor of the sensor network is operative to transmit 

18 . The guest engagement system of claim 11 , wherein a command to a guest device in its communication 

each sensor network peripheral comprises a communication range to cause the guest device to change operating 

bus configured to support electric connections to a plurality mode between the first and second operating modes . 

of sensors of the sensor network . * * * * 

Case 1:20-cv-22945-RNS Document 88-1 Entered on FLSD Docket 10/21/2020 Page 54 of 54