U.S. patent application number 09/878111 was filed with the patent office on 2001-12-27 for method and apparatus for controlling the cost of playing an electronic gaming device.
This patent application is currently assigned to Acres Gaming Incorporated. Invention is credited to Acres, John F..
Application Number | 20010055990 09/878111 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 23253727 |
Filed Date | 2001-12-27 |
United States Patent
Application |
20010055990 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Acres, John F. |
December 27, 2001 |
Method and apparatus for controlling the cost of playing an
electronic gaming device
Abstract
Electronic gaming machines, such as slot machines or video poker
machines are interconnected by a computer network. The behavior of
each machine is controlled by configuring selected parameters such
as game speed, payback percentage, or game appearance. As the
machines are played, any of the selected parameters may be changed
responsive to commands issued over the network. The commands are
issued in response to predetermined changes in variables such as
rate of play, player status, and the time of the day, week, or
month. The payback percentage may be changed by implementing a new
pay table at the selected machine or machines or by implementing a
bonus period during which a percentage of all money played on the
selected machines accrues in a bonus pool. During the bonus period,
the selected machines are eligible for bonus awards that may be
random or related to jackpots paid based on the pay tables in the
selected machines.
Inventors: |
Acres, John F.; (Corvallis,
OR) |
Correspondence
Address: |
MARGER JOHNSON & MCCOLLOM PC
1030 SW MORRISON STREET
PORTLAND
OR
97205
US
|
Assignee: |
Acres Gaming Incorporated
Las Vegas
NV
|
Family ID: |
23253727 |
Appl. No.: |
09/878111 |
Filed: |
June 6, 2001 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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09878111 |
Jun 6, 2001 |
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09086964 |
May 29, 1998 |
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6254483 |
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09086964 |
May 29, 1998 |
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08465717 |
Jun 6, 1995 |
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5836817 |
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08465717 |
Jun 6, 1995 |
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08322172 |
Oct 12, 1994 |
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5655961 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
463/25 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G07F 17/323 20130101;
G07F 17/3258 20130101; G07F 17/3227 20130101; G07F 17/3251
20130101; G07F 17/32 20130101; G07F 17/3234 20130101; G07F 17/3255
20130101; G07F 17/3239 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
463/25 |
International
Class: |
A63F 009/24 |
Claims
I claim:
1. A method of configuring electronic gaming machines
interconnected by a computer network to a host computer comprising:
implementing selected configuration parameters at each machine;
monitoring a plurality of variables related to play on the gaming
machines; establishing a predetermined criterion for one of said
variables; permitting play to occur at the machines; selecting one
of the machines when said one variable meets the criterion; issuing
a computer command; and changing a configuration parameter of the
selected machine responsive to the command.
2. The method of claim 1 wherein the changed configuration
parameter comprises game speed.
3. The method of claim 2 wherein said one variable comprises the
rate at which the interconnected machines are played.
4. The method of claim 2 wherein said one variable comprises the
time that the interconnected machines are played.
5. The method of claim 2 wherein said one variable comprises the
status of a player of one of said machines.
6. The method of claim 1 wherein the changed configuration
parameter comprises payback percentage.
7. The method of claim 6 wherein said one variable comprises the
rate at which the interconnected machines are played.
8. The method of claim 6 wherein said one variable comprises the
time that the interconnected machines are played.
9. The method of claim 6 wherein said one variable comprises the
status of a player of one of said machines.
10. The method of claim 1 wherein the changed configuration
parameter comprises game appearance.
11. The method of claim 10 wherein said one variable comprises the
rate at which the interconnected machines are played.
12. The method of claim 10 wherein said one variable comprises the
time that the interconnected machines are played.
15. The method of claim 10 wherein said one variable comprises the
status of a player of one of said machines.
13. The method of claim 1 wherein said one variable comprises the
rate at which the interconnected machines are played.
14. The method of claim 1 wherein said one variable comprises the
time that the interconnected machines are played.
15. The method of claim 1 wherein said one variable comprises the
status of a player of one of said machines.
16. The method of claim 15 wherein said method further comprises:
issuing a unique identification card to a player of one of the
gaming machines; sensing engagement of the card with a reader
associated with one of the gaming machines; monitoring the player's
play on said one gaming machine; transmitting data relating to the
player's play over the network; and storing the data on a computer
connected to the network.
17. The method of claim 16 wherein the status of a player of one of
said machines is reflected in the stored data and wherein
establishing a predetermined criterion for one of said variables
comprises establishing a predetermined level of player play.
18. The method of claim 17 wherein establishing a predetermined
level of player play comprises establishing a predetermined rate of
play.
19. The method of claim 15 wherein the status of a player comprises
whether the player is a member of one of a plurality of
classes.
20. The method of claim 15 wherein the status of the player
comprises whether the player is recognized by a player-tracking
system operated on the network.
21. The method of claim 20 wherein said method further comprises:
setting the payback percentage to a first level when the player is
not recognized; and setting the payback percentage to a second
level when the player is recognized.
22. A method of configuring electronic gaming machines
interconnected by a computer network to a host computer comprising:
permitting play to occur at the machines; selecting one of the
machines; issuing a computer command; and changing the game speed
of the selected machine responsive to the command.
23. The method of claim 22 wherein said method further comprises:
tracking the amount of money wagered on the interconnected
electronic gaming machines; establishing a predetermined criterion
relating to the level of tracked money; and changing the game speed
of a plurality of the interconnected gaming machines when the level
of tracked money satisfies the predetermined criterion.
24. The method of claim 23 wherein establishing a predetermined
criterion relating to the level of tracked money comprises
establishing a predetermined criterion relating to the rate of
money wagered.
25. The method of claim 24 wherein said method further comprises
decreasing the playing speed responsive to a first rate of money
wagered and increasing the speed responsive to a second rate of
money wagered.
26. The method of claim 22 wherein said method further comprises:
tracking the time; establishing predetermined criterion relating to
the time; and changing the game speed of a plurality of the
interconnected gaming machines when the time satisfies the
predetermined criterion.
27. The method of claim 26 wherein the step of tracking the time
comprises tracking the time of day.
28. The method of claim 26 wherein the step of tracking the time
comprises tracking the day of the week.
29. The method of claim 26 wherein the step of tracking the time
comprises tracking the date of the year.
30. The method of claim 26 wherein said method further comprises:
tracking the amount of money wagered on the interconnected
electronic gaming machines; establishing a predetermined criterion
that is a function of the level of tracked money and the time; and
changing the game speed of a plurality of the interconnected gaming
machines when the level of tracked money and the time satisfies the
predetermined criterion.
31. The method of claim 22 wherein said method further comprises:
tracking a player of the gaming machines; establishing a
predetermined player criterion; and changing said game speed at
each gaming machine where a player meets the criterion.
32. The method of claim 31 wherein the criterion comprises whether
the player is recognized by a player-tracking system operated on
the network.
33. The method of claim 31 wherein the criterion comprises
determining whether the player is wagering at a predetermined
rate.
34. A method of configuring electronic gaming machines
interconnected by a computer network to a host computer comprising:
defining a first time period; defining a second time period;
storing data representative to the first and second periods in the
computer; issuing a first computer command at the start of the
first period; implementing a first payback percentage for one of
the gaming machines responsive to the first command; permitting
play to occur on the machines; issuing a second computer command at
the start of the second period; and implementing a second payback
percentage for said one gaming machine responsive to the second
command.
35. The method of claim 34 wherein said method further comprises
communicating the second command to an input port of said one
gaming machine via the network.
36. The method of claim 34 wherein implementing a first payback
percentage for one of the gaming machines responsive to the first
command comprises paying responsive to a first payback schedule
stored in the electronic gaming machine, and wherein implementing a
second payback percentage for said one gaming machine responsive to
the second command further comprises: using the network to track
the amount of money played on said one gaming machine; allocating a
predetermined percentage of the money played to a bonus pool;
initiating a bonus period responsive to the second command; paying
the bonus via the gaming machine.
37. The method of claim 36 wherein paying the bonus via the gaming
machine comprises paying a predetermined additional amount each
time a payment is made in accordance with the first payout
schedule.
38. The method of claim 36 wherein said method further comprises:
implementing a first payback percentage for a plurality of the
gaming machines responsive to the first command; implementing a
second payback percentage for the plurality of gaming machines
responsive to the second command; using the network to track the
amount of money played on the plurality of gaming machines; paying
the bonus via one of the plurality of gaming machines.
39. The method of claim 34 wherein defining first and second time
periods comprises: defining a first time period during which play
on the machines is typically at a high level; and defining a second
time period during which play on the machines is typically at a low
level.
40. The method of claim 39 wherein said second payback percentage
is higher than said first payback percentage.
41. A method of configuring an electronic gaming machine
comprising: implementing a pay table in the gaming machine;
monitoring a plurality of variables related to play on the gaming
machine; establishing a predetermined criterion for one of said
variables; permitting play to occur at the gaming machine; tracking
the amount of money played on the gaming machine; allocating a
predetermined percentage of the money played to a bonus pool;
initiating a bonus period when said one variable meets the
criterion; and paying in accordance with said pay table and from
said bonus pool via the gaming machine.
42. The method of claim 41 wherein said one variable comprises the
rate at which the machine is played.
43. The method of claim 41 wherein said one variable comprises the
time that the machine is played.
44. The method of claim 41 wherein said one variable comprises the
status of a player of said machine.
45. The method of claim 44 wherein the status of a player comprises
whether the player is a member of one of a plurality of
classes.
46. The method of claim 41 wherein establishing a predetermined
criterion for one of said variables comprises establishing a
predetermined level of player play.
47. The method of claim 46 wherein establishing a predetermined
level of player play comprises establishing a predetermined rate of
play.
Description
[0001] This application is a continuation of application Ser. No.
08/465,717, filed Jun. 6, 1995, which is a divisional of
application Ser. No. 08/322,172, filed Oct. 12, 1994, now U.S. Pat.
No. 5,655,961.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention relates to electronic gaming machines
interconnected by a computer network and more particularly to a
method of configuring such machines.
[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0005] Casinos typically include electronic gaming machines (EGMs)
such as slot machines and video poker machines. The slot machines
usually includes three reels that each have a plurality of symbols
printed thereon. After the player applies a wager to the machine,
he or she starts play by triggering a switch that starts the reels
spinning. Each reel stops at a random position and thereby presents
three symbols--one from each reel. Some combinations of symbols do
not pay any jackpot. Others pay varying amounts according to
predetermined combinations that appear in a pay table displayed on
the machine.
[0006] Video poker machines include a video monitor upon which the
images of cards appear, as if dealt by a dealer from a shuffled
deck, in response to player inputs to the machine. The player wins
jackpots dependent upon the amount wagered and in accordance with
the cards that are dealt.
[0007] When a new EGM, whether a slot or poker machine, is made
available for gaming, it must first be configured. A programmable
read only memory (PROM) is installed in each new EGM. The PROM
includes data that controls the behavior of the machine, and
typically also includes data that establishes the payback
percentage, such data being referred to herein as the paytable. The
paytable defines the average percentage of wagers that is returned
to the players in the form of jackpots over time. Gaming
regulations in many jurisdictions require the paytable to be stored
in the PROM. The PROM must consequently be changed if the casino
desires to change the paytable. Some jurisdictions, however, permit
the casino to change the paytable by setting options at each EGM.
Such options are selected by using a key switch at each machine
that places the machine into a configuration mode. When in this
mode, the casino employee configures the machine for such things as
the maximum jackpot that can be paid by the machine before a hand
payment is required. The rate at which the jackpot meter increments
may also be selected as well as special effects generated by the
machine in response to a jackpot. And if the jurisdiction permits,
the paytable may be changed when the machine is in the
configuration mode. Otherwise, the only way to change the paytable
is to replace the PROM with another containing a different
paytable.
[0008] Poker machines, when placed in a configuration mode as
described above, display information about the status of the
various options on the video monitor that is used to display the
cards and other information when the game is played. On the poker
machine, sound, background color, and card decoration, which may be
configured to display the casino's logo, are examples of the
parameters that can be changed when the machine is in the
configuration mode. It is easier to configure the poker machine
because the monitor displays the status of various options as well
as lists of options, from which a parameter can be selected and
implemented. Slot machines, on the other hand, do not have a
monitor and are therefore difficult to configure because the only
displays available to indicate status are four-digit alphanumeric
readouts that are used to display the amounts on the credit meter
or the jackpot meter. Configuring a slot machine as described above
can take about twenty to thirty minutes of casino time. Installing
machines in a new casino, which may number in the thousands, or
changing the parameters on pre-existing machines, is consequently a
very labor intensive process.
[0009] It is also a process that lends itself to implementing,
either inadvertently or otherwise, the wrong parameters. Thus, a
group of machines that are supposed to be configured identically
may include one or more that vary from one another because of an
incorrect input during the configuration process.
[0010] Some EGMs include a primary game and a secondary game. For
example, the primary game may include a slot machine that
periodically permits the player to play the secondary game before
the next reel spin on the slot machine. Some secondary games award
a prize after the player spins a wheel. The prize is indicated on a
sector of the wheel, which stops at a random location after being
spun. Because the secondary game must be configured in the same
manner as the primary game, the same types of disadvantages are
associated with secondary games.
[0011] In addition, some EGMs include a dedicated progressive in
which a percentage of all vagers made on that machine goes into a
separate pool that is awarded by the machine. The payback
percentage for such a game must also be configured, either by the
casino or via a paytable included in a PROM, and therefore presents
similar problems.
[0012] It would be desirable for a casino operating a plurality of
EGMs to be able to change the effective wager per unit time
required of a player of the machines. The wager per unit time,
which is the cost to the player for playing the EGMs, is a function
of the payback percentage and the game speed. The faster the game
speed and the lower the payback percentage, the more money the
casino retains, and vice versa. Increasing the wager per unit time
increases casino revenues--up to a point. If the casino simply
selects a very low payback percentage (or a very fast game speed)
on all of its machines, the players may feel that they get better
returns elsewhere. It would, however, be desirable for the casino
to be able to vary the wager per unit time in accordance with the
demand on the casino floor. In other words, during evenings and
into the early morning hours on weekends--and especially on certain
holidays--there are greater numbers of players placing wagers than,
e.g., on a Tuesday morning between 7:00 am and noon. It would
therefore be desirable for the casino to set the cost to the player
at a higher level during high demand periods and at a lower level,
to attract players, during low demand periods.
[0013] It would be quite cumbersome to change payback percentage,
either by switching the PROMs from machines, or by placing the
machine in a configuration mode in jurisdictions that permit
changing pay tables in response to casino configuration. Changing
game speed by switching PROMs or by placing the machine in a
configuration mode would be equally cumbersome. It would be
impractical to make such changes in a large casino even weekly,
much less daily.
[0014] In addition to varying the cost to the players, i.e., the
wager per unit time, in response to periods of high and low demand
in the casino, it would be desirable to change the player cost in
response to the status of a particular player. The casino likes to
track players to identify big players and to conduct direct mail
marketing. Casino management therefore encourages players to sign
up for, receive, and use a player tracking card, which the player
inserts into a card reader associated with each EGM. The casino can
therefore identify players based on previous or current rates of
play and vary the wager per unit time for that player
accordingly.
[0015] It might also be desirable to change the cost to the player
depending upon their status as a person that the casino would like
to encourage to play their games or as the companion of such a
person or of a person known to wager large amounts. Changing player
cost in response to player status by switching PROMs or
reconfiguring the machines is not possible.
[0016] In addition to the foregoing it would be desirable to change
the manner in which the player perceives the EGM. In other words,
it would be desirable to change the sound effects and appearance of
the machine in response to time, the rate at which the
interconnected machines are played, or the status of a player.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0017] The present invention comprises a method of configuring
electronic gaming machines interconnected by a computer network to
a host computer. Selected configuration parameters are implemented
at each machine. A plurality of variables related to play on the
gaming machines are monitored. A predetermined criterion for one of
the variables is established. After play is permitted to occur at
the machines, one of the machines is selected when the established
criterion is met. The configuration parameter of the selected
machine is changed in responsive to a computer command.
[0018] The present invention overcomes the disadvantages with
associated with the prior art and provides additional advantages
that are apparent when the detailed description is read in view of
the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0019] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a plurality of electronic
gaming machines interconnected by a computer network to a host
computer in accordance with the present invention.
[0020] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a slot machine and
associated hardware implemented in accordance with the present
invention.
[0021] FIG. 3 is a flow chart that depicts operation of the FIG. 1
network in accordance with the present invention.
[0022] FIG. 4 is a exemplary time line for a one week period that
shows changes in the player cost per unit time in response to the
time of day.
[0023] FIG. 5 is a exemplary time line for a one year period that
shows changes in the player cost per unit time in response to the
day of the year.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0024] Turning now to FIG. 1, indicated generally at 10 is a
schematic diagram illustrating electronic gaming machines (EGMs),
like EGMs 12, 14, interconnected by a computer network. Included
therein are three banks, indicated generally at 16, 18, 20, of
EGMs. Each EGM is connected via a network connection, like
connection 22, to a bank controller 24. In the present embodiment
of the invention, each bank controller comprises a processor that
facilitates data communication between the EGMs in its associated
bank and the other components on the network. The bank controller
also includes a CD ROM drive for transmitting digitized sound
effects, such as music and the like, to a speaker 26 responsive to
commands issued over the network to bank controller 24. The bank
controller is also connected to an electronic sign 28 that displays
information, such as jackpot amounts and the like, visible to
players of machines on bank 16. Such displays are generated and
changed responsive to commands issued over the network to bank
controller 24. Each of the other banks 18, 20 of EGMs include
associated bank controllers, speakers, and signs as shown, which
operate in substantially the same manner.
[0025] Ethernet hub 30 connects each of the bank controllers
associated with banks 16, 18, 20 of EGMs to a concentrator 32.
Another Ethernet hub 34 connects similar bank controllers (not
shown), each associated with an additional bank of EGMs (also not
shown), to concentrator 32. The concentrator functions as a data
control switch to route data from each of the banks to a translator
36. The translator comprises a compatibility buffer between the
concentrator and a proprietary accounting system 38. It functions
to place all the data gathered from each of the bank controllers
into a format compatible with accounting system 38. The present
embodiment of the invention, translator 38 comprises an Intel
Pentium 200 MHz Processor operating Microsoft Windows NT 4.0.
[0026] Another Ethernet hub 39 is connected to a configuration
workstation 40, a player server 42, and to bonus servers 44, 46.
Hub 39 facilitates data flow to or from workstation 40 and servers
42, 44, 46.
[0027] The configuration workstation 40 comprises a user interface.
It comprises a personal computer including a keyboard, Intel
Pentium Processor and Ethernet card.
[0028] The player server 42 comprises a microcomputer that is used
to control messages that appear on displays associated with each
EGM. Player server 42 includes an Intel Pentium Processor and an
Ethernet card.
[0029] Bonus servers 44, 46 each comprise a microcomputer used to
control bonus applications on the network. Each bonus application
comprises a set of rules for awarding jackpots in excess of those
established by the pay tables on each EGM. For example, some bonus
awards may be made randomly, while others may be made to link to
groups of EGMs operating in a progressive jackpot mode. Examples of
bonuses that can be implemented on the network are disclosed in
co-pending application Ser. No. 08/843,411, filed Apr. 15, 1997 and
assigned to the Assignee of the present application (the '411
application), which is incorporated herein by reference for all
purposes. This co-pending application also describes in more detail
features of the network, like that shown in FIG. 1, that may be
used to implement the present invention. Also incorporated herein
by reference for all purposes is U.S. Pat. No. 5,655,961, assigned
to the Assignee of the present application (the '961 patent), which
also discloses bonuses that can be implemented by bonus servers 44,
46 and a network that could be used to implement the present
invention.
[0030] FIG. 2 is a highly schematic representation of an electronic
slot machine, which is typical of each of the machines in the
network, that incorporates network communications hardware as
described hereinafter. This hardware is described in the '961
patent, and is referred to therein as a data communications node.
Preferably the network communications hardware is like that
disclosed in the '411 application, which is referred to therein as
a machine communication interface.
[0031] Included in EGM 12 are three reels, indicated generally at
48. Each reel includes a plurality of different symbols thereon.
The reels spin in response to player input after a wager is made.
FIG. 6 comprises the paytable for EGM 12. The first three columns
depict different combinations of symbols on the reels. The fourth
column of FIG. 6 indicates the amount won on a single coin wager
when the combination of symbols in the first three columns appears
after the reels spin. Columns five and six indicate the amount won
when two and three coins, respectively, are wagered. Any
combination of reel symbols other than those shown in FIG. 6 does
not result in a payment to the player.
[0032] The network communications hardware preferably comprises a
machine communication interface (MCI) 50 as set forth in the '411
application. MCI 50 facilitates communication between the network,
via connection 22, and microprocessor 52, which controls the
operation of EGM 12. This communication occurs via a serial port 54
on the microprocessor to which MCI 50 is connected. Microprocessor
52 is also connected to a programmable read only memory (PROM) 56,
which controls the behavior of EGM 12, and which may or may not
include the paytable of FIG. 6, depending upon how the present
invention is implemented, as described hereinafter. MCI 50 may
include a random access memory (RAM), which can be used as later
described herein.
[0033] MCI 50 also facilitates communication between the network
and a player display 58, a card reader 60, a player-actuated push
button 62, and a speaker 64.
[0034] Card reader 60 reads a player-tracking card 66 that is
issued by the casino to individual players who choose to have such
a card. Card reader 60 and player-tracking card 66 are known in the
art, as are player-tracking systems, examples being disclosed in
the '961 patent and '411 application. Briefly summarizing such a
system, a player registers with the casino prior to commencing
gaming. The casino issues a unique player-tracking card to the
player and opens a corresponding player account that is stored on
accounting system 38 (in FIG. 1). The account includes the player's
name and mailing address and perhaps other information of interest
to the casino in connection with marketing efforts. Prior to
playing one of the EGMs in FIG. 1, the player inserts card 66 into
reader 60 thus permitting accounting system 38 to track player
activity, such as amounts wagered and won and rate of play.
[0035] In another embodiment of the invention, EGM 12 in FIG. 2 can
be operated in a stand-alone mode, i.e., without connection 22.
[0036] Consideration will now be given to the operation of the
network and associated equipment depicted in FIGS. 1 and 2. First,
selected configuration parameters are implemented at each EGM. As
discussed above, these configuration parameters may be implemented
by either (a) installing a PROM, like PROM 56 in FIG. 2, in each
EGM to be configured or (b) by placing the EGM in a configuration
mode and thereafter generating inputs to the EGM, or a combination
of (a) and (b). Alternatively, and also in accordance with the
present invention, configuration parameters can be implemented by
generating computer commands at configuration workstation 40 that
are transmitted via the network to a selected one or more of the
EGMs. For example, and with reference to FIG. 2, such commands can
be transmitted over the network to MCI 50 via connection 22. The
commands may either reside in the random access memory (RAM)
contained within MCI 50, or can be transferred to RAM (not shown)
associated with EGM 12 via the serial port 54 of microprocessor 52.
In the latter case, the code so transferred is received by
microprocessor 52 and then stored in the EGM RAM.
[0037] In either case, whether stored in MCI 50 or in RAM
associated with the EGM, the configuration parameters are
accessible by microprocessor 52, which when programmed with the
stored configuration parameters causes EGM 12 to operate in
accordance with the parameters. As mentioned above, such
configuration parameters control the behavior of the electronic
gaming machine and may include the paytable that controls the
average percent of money that the machines returns to players via
jackpots.
[0038] Next, a plurality of variables related to play on the gaming
machines are monitored. Such variables may include the rate at
which the interconnected machines are played. The casino is
therefore able to determine whether or not there is a relatively
high level of demand for play or a relatively low level, i.e., the
rate is relatively low. The casino's income, of course, increases
with the rate of play.
[0039] Another variable comprises the time that the interconnected
machines are played. The time variable may relate to a specific
time of the day, the week, or the year. Each of these time periods
includes portions in which play typically occurs at a high rate,
e.g., evenings, Friday and Saturday nights, and three day weekends,
and other portions in which play typically occurs at a low rate.
The time variable may also relate to the length of time a
particular configuration parameter has been implemented.
[0040] Still another such variable comprises the status of a player
of one of the machines. The status of the player may comprise
whether the player is recognized by a player-tracking system
operated on the network. In the present embodiment of the invention
this feature is implemented with player-tracking card 66 and card
reader 60. Another aspect of the player status relates to the level
of player play. One aspect of the level of player play includes the
rate of play--both the current rate as well as the rate over a
selected time period.
[0041] Next, a predetermined criterion is established for one of
the monitored variables. For example, in connection with the player
status, the predetermined criterion may comprise a predetermined
level of player play, e.g., establishing a predetermined rate of
player play. Another predetermined criterion relates to the level
of money wagered on the entire system shown in FIG. 1, which is
calculated by accounting system 38. This criterion could comprise
the rate of money wagered on the entire system, as opposed to the
criterion set forth above relating to the rate at which a single
player wagers.
[0042] Another predetermined criterion may relate to the time. As
noted above this could be the time that a particular configuration
parameter has been implemented or could relate to the time of a
day, week, or year.
[0043] After the predetermined criterion for one of the monitored
variables is established, play is permitted to occur at the
machines. When the monitored variable meets the criterion, one or
more of the machines, or all, in FIG. 1 is selected, and a computer
command is issued. In response to the computer command, a
configuration parameter of the selected machine or machines is
changed responsive to a command over the network.
[0044] Attention is now directed to FIG. 3 wherein indicated
generally at 68 is flow chart of a computer program implementing a
portion of a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
Computer program 68 is implemented in software installed on
configuration workstation 40 in FIG. 1. First, a criterion is
established in box 70. As discussed above, the criterion may relate
to the rate at which the interconnected machines are played, the
time the interconnected machines are played, or the status of a
player of one of the machines. Next, a first configuration
parameter is implemented in box 72. As discussed above,
configuration parameters are implemented by installing a PROM
provided by the EGM manufacturer, by generating inputs to the EGM
when placed in the configuration mode, or by downloading
configuration data delivered over the network of FIG. 1 to the EGM,
or by a combination of the foregoing. Typically there is an initial
configuration implemented via PROM or placing the EGM into a
configuration mode. Implementation of initial configuration
parameters, however, may be accomplished in any manner in
accordance with the present invention.
[0045] In box 74, variables such as rate at which the machines are
played, time that the machines are played, and the status of
players, are monitored using the network of FIG. 1. In step 76 the
program compares the monitored variables with the criterion
established in block 70. If it is not met, the program maintains
the first configuration parameter implemented in step 72 and
continues to monitor variables in 74.
[0046] When step 76 determines that the criterion is met, a second
configuration parameter is implemented in box 78. Thereafter the
program monitors system variables in box 74 and so long as the
criterion is met, maintains implementation of the second
configuration parameter. When and if the criterion is not met, step
76 directs that the first configuration parameter be again
implemented in box 72 with continued monitoring and comparison as
before.
[0047] Considering now FIGS. 4 and 5, additional description will
be made of examples of configuring electronic gaming machines in
accordance with the present invention in which the predetermined
criterion comprises the time that the interconnected machines are
played and the changed configuration parameter comprises payback
percentage.
[0048] In a first example, illustrated schematically in FIG. 4, the
time that the interconnected machines are played relates to the
time of an exemplary week. A time line 80 is bisected by long
vertical lines, like lines 82, 84, which define a single 24 hour
day. Each day of the week beginning with Monday and ending with
Sunday, is identified on the time line. Each day is bisected by
three short vertical lines, like line 86, that are equally spaced
between long lines, like lines 82, 84. The distance from one short
line to the next adjacent line therefore represents a 6 hour
period. In the portion of time line 80 representing Monday, the
short line corresponding to 6:00 pm is identified with a #1, as are
the portions of the time line representing Tuesday and Wednesday.
In the portion of the time line representing Tuesday, the time
corresponding to 2:00 am is designated with a #2. This is also the
case for Wednesday and Thursday.
[0049] Friday, Saturday, and Sunday similarly include times
corresponding to numerals 1 or 2 as depicted.
[0050] In the example of FIG. 4, the time period defined between
each number 1 and the following number 2 is referred to herein as a
first time period. The time period between each number 2 and the
following number 1 is referred to herein as a second time period.
In this example, play on the machines is typically at a high level
during the first time period and typically at a low level during
the second time period. During the hours of the day, especially
weekdays between around breakfast and midafternoon, play in some
casinos is typically at a lower level than in the evening beginning
around 6:00 pm. Similarly, play on the weekends during the day is
at higher level than during weekdays.
[0051] The hours of the day defining the first and second periods
in FIG. 4 are entered into configuration workstation 40. A computer
command is issued at the start of each period. In response to the
command, a payback percentage for one, or more, of the EGMs is
implemented. In accordance with the present invention, this payback
percentage may be implemented by delivering over the network to
each affected machine a code that is stored in a memory associated
with the machine and that changes the pay table of the machine.
Because some jurisdictions would not permit changing the pay table
on the machine, there is an alternative way to change the payback
percentage to a selected machine or machines.
[0052] Using the alternative way, the network tracks the amount of
money played on a selected gaming machine or machines that will
have different payback percentages implemented. Responsive to the
first command, a predetermined percentage of the money played on
the selected machines is allocated to a bonus pool that is also
tracked by the network. A bonus period is also initiated responsive
to the first command. During the first period a bonus is paid to
the machine or machines on which the first payback percentage is
implemented. Such a bonus may be randomly awarded to one of these
machines or may comprise an additional payment each time an EGM
jackpot is paid in accordance with the first table. Such bonuses
and the manner of implementing are described in the '961 patent.
After play occurs on the machines, a second computer command is
issued at the start of the second period. The second payback
percentage for the selected machine or machines is implemented
responsive to the second command. In this example, implementation
of the second period is equivalent to turning the bonus off, i.e.,
money is no longer allocated to a bonus period during the second
period and bonuses are not paid from the pool.
[0053] It can be seen that multiple criteria can be monitored. For
example, at all times it might be desirable to provide a higher
payback percentage to a player who uses a player-tracking card
issued to him or her by the casino. For example, the bonus pool
could always be accruing, and paying bonuses to each player using a
valid player's card. Such a player would be eligible for still a
higher level of bonus, i.e., additional percentage would accrue
from all amounts wagered during the first period on the time line.
Multiple and overlapping bonus pools could therefore be
simultaneously accruing a percentage of wagers, and awarding
bonuses from such pools, depending upon the rate of machine play,
players status, and the time the interconnected machines are
played.
[0054] Turning now to FIG. 5, a second time line defines a year.
With certain holidays, for example Memorial Day and Labor Day, play
is typically high at all times throughout the three day weekend,
with each day being represented by a vertical line in FIG. 5. The
appropriate computer in FIG. 1 is therefore programmed to either
override or alter the amount of the payback percentage change in
the first and second periods of FIG. 4 during those weekends. In
the example of FIG. 5, the period between December 25th and
December 31st is traditionally a very slow time in some casinos so
that the payback percentage could be correspondingly altered by
either changing the amounts that would normally occur as a result
of the parameters in FIG. 4 or substituting a different single one
or multiple parameters for that period. It is to be appreciated
that multiple variables may be monitored and multiple configuration
parameters may be changed in response to the monitored
variables.
[0055] Another configuration parameter comprises game speed. With
respect to an electronic slot machine, the game speed is the time
it takes from start of reel rotation until the reels stop spinning.
With respect to electronic poker, the time relates to how fast the
cards are "dealt," i.e., how rapidly they appear on the video
monitor display. As discussed above, game speed, along with payback
percentage and accrual of wagers in a bonus pool influence the net
cost to the player per unit time for playing the casino games. Game
speed is therefore one of the configuration parameters that may be
changed in response to commands issued over the computer network in
response to a predetermined criterion for one of the monitored
variables. As with each of the other configurable parameters, an
appropriate code input to the EGM serial port 54, delivered over
the network and MCI 50, is used to change the game speed of the
selected EGM.
[0056] Consideration will now be given to the operation of EGM 12
in stand-alone mode, i.e., with being connected to a network via
connection 22. Initial configuration parameters are implemented as
described above, either via installing PROM, by casino
configuration, or by a combination of the two. In this embodiment,
the RAM in MCI 50 is programmed to monitor variables related to
play on the gaming machine, such as coin in, coin out, player
status, time that machine is played, etc. The MCI also allocates a
predetermined percentage of the money played on the gaming machine
to a bonus pool. A predetermined criterion for one of the variables
is stored in the MCI RAM. The MCI compares the monitored variable
to the criterion and initiates a bonus period when the criterion is
met. During the bonus period, the machine pays both from the pay
table and from the bonus pool based on bonus rules that are stored
in the MCI and implemented via communication with EGM processor 52.
The bonus rules could provide for numerous types of payments via
the EGM. The bonus could pay, for example, a specified amount from
the pool in response to certain winning, or nonwinning, reel
combinations. It could pay a multiple of any jackpot awarded by the
EGM, or it could pay on a random basis. Numerous other rules could
be established for paying from the bonus pool during a bonus
period. As described above in connection with the networked
implementation of the invention, this raises the payback percentage
to a player of the gaming machine.
[0057] Having illustrated and described the principles of my
invention in a preferred embodiment thereof, it should be readily
apparent to those skilled in the art that the invention can be
modified in arrangement and detail without departing from such
principles. I claim all modifications coming within the spirit and
scope of the accompanying claims.
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