Some implementations of the invention provide methods, devices and systems
for acquiring patron data in real time. A plurality of networked cameras
may be used to acquire information regarding casino patrons. The cameras
may include "smart cameras" having an integrated machine vision system.
The real-time information may be used to populate one or more databases
of a player loyalty program. Patron information may also be used to
determine trends associated with patron demographics, with levels of a
player loyalty program, etc. Some implementations of the invention
involve monitoring patron event data and determining when predetermined
events of interest occur. When a defined event occurs, patron data
relating to the associated patron may be monitored, analyzed and used to
populate one or more player loyalty databases. In some implementations,
patron data acquired prior to the time of the defined event may also be
analyzed and used.