U.S. patent application number 10/243707 was filed with the patent office on 2003-02-27 for gaming device having a plurality of multiple-image panels.
Invention is credited to Baerlocher, Anthony J., McGahn, Steven P., Rothkranz, Markus.
Application Number | 20030040358 10/243707 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 31991714 |
Filed Date | 2003-02-27 |
United States Patent
Application |
20030040358 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Rothkranz, Markus ; et
al. |
February 27, 2003 |
Gaming device having a plurality of multiple-image panels
Abstract
A gaming device having a plurality of multiple-image panels.
Each multiple-image panel includes multiple sides, wherein each
side displays an image. Each multiple-image panel is connected to
an actuator which the processor causes the multiple-image panel to
move independently of the other image panels. In one embodiment,
each multiple-image panel and connected actuator is supported by a
removable unit which is removably attached to a housing. Upon a
triggering event occurring in a primary or bonus game, the gaming
device's processor randomly independently determines the image to
be displayed by each of the plurality of multiple-image panels. The
gaming device causes the actuators to move the multiple-image
panels to display the selected image or images to the player.
Inventors: |
Rothkranz, Markus; (Las
Vegas, NV) ; Baerlocher, Anthony J.; (Reno, NV)
; McGahn, Steven P.; (Reno, NV) |
Correspondence
Address: |
BELL, BOYD & LLOYD LLC
P. O. Box 1135
Chicago
IL
60690
US
|
Family ID: |
31991714 |
Appl. No.: |
10/243707 |
Filed: |
September 13, 2002 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10243707 |
Sep 13, 2002 |
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|
09990693 |
Nov 9, 2001 |
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|
09990693 |
Nov 9, 2001 |
|
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09605809 |
Jun 28, 2000 |
|
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6315664 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
463/20 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G07F 17/3211 20130101;
G07F 17/3244 20130101; G07F 17/34 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
463/20 |
International
Class: |
A63F 009/24 |
Claims
1. A gaming device comprising: a cabinet; a housing connected to
the cabinet; a plurality of images; a plurality of independently
frames removably connected to the housing, each removable frame
including an actuator mounted to the frame and coupled to a
multiple-image panel mounted to the frame, wherein each
multiple-image panel includes a plurality of sides wherein at least
two of the sides are disposed in substantially perpendicular
relation and wherein each side displays one of the images; and a
processor operable to independently randomly determine for each
multiple-image panel which side of said multiple-image panel to
display based on probabilities associated with said images and to
cause the actuator to move each said multiple-image panel, if
necessary, to display the selected image of said multiple image
panel to a player.
2. The gaming device of claim 1, wherein the processor randomly
determines the image to be displayed by each multiple-image panel
based upon a separate probability associated with each image of
said multiple-image panel.
3. The gaming device of claim 1, wherein each of said plurality of
frames includes at least one illumination device which is operable
to illuminate the image being displayed to the player by said
multiple-image panel.
4. The gaming device of claim 1, wherein each multiple-image panel
includes three sides, wherein each side is disposed substantially
perpendicular to at least one of the other sides of said
multiple-image panel.
5. The gaming device of claim 1, wherein each of said frames is in
a vertical alignment with at least one other of said frame.
6. The gaming device of claim 5, wherein each of said frames is in
a horizontal alignment with at least one other of said frames.
7. The gaming device of claim 1, which includes at least one
indicator associated with each of the multiple-image panels and
connected to the housing.
8. The gaming device of claim 1, which includes a general indicator
connected to said housing for the multiple-image panels.
9. The gaming device of claim 1, which includes at least one
independent display device supported by said housing.
10. The gaming device of claim 1, which includes a plurality of
independent display devices supported by said housing.
11. The gaming device of claim 1, wherein each multiple-image panel
is rotatable relative to said frame.
12. The gaming device of claim 1, wherein the images displayed by
the multiple-image panel are selected from the group consisting of:
words, values, awards and other symbols.
13. A gaming device comprising: a cabinet; a housing connected to
the cabinet; a plurality of images; a plurality of multiple-image
panels supported by the housing, each multiple-image panel
including three sides, wherein each side displays one of the
images, and each side is disposed substantially perpendicular to at
least one other side; a plurality of actuators supported by the
housing, each actuator coupled to one of the plurality of
multiple-image panels; and a processor operable to randomly
independently determine which of said three images will be
displayed to a player on each of the plurality of multiple-image
panels based on probabilities associated with said three images,
and cause said actuators to independently oscillate, if necessary,
each of said multiple-image panels so that the selected image on
each multiple-image panel is displayed to a player.
14. The gaming device of claim 13, wherein the processor randomly
determines the images to be displayed by each of multiple-image
panels based upon a probability associated with each of said
plurality of images.
15. The gaming device of claim 13, which includes a plurality of
illumination devices connected to the multiple-image panels which
illuminate said images being displayed to the player by the
plurality of multiple-image panels.
16. The gaming device of claim 13, which includes at least one
indicator and associated with each of the multiple-image panels and
supported by the housing.
17. The gaming device of claim 13, which includes a general
indicator connected to said housing.
18. The gaming device of claim 13, wherein the images displayed by
the plurality of multiple-image panels are selected from the group
consisting of: words, values, awards and other symbols.
19. A gaming device comprising: a cabinet; a housing connected to
the cabinet; a plurality of symbols including a plurality of award
symbols and a plurality of neutral symbols; a plurality of
multiple-image panels supported by said housing, each
multiple-image panel including a plurality of sides, wherein at
least one of said sides displays said neutral symbol and each of at
least two other of said sides displays one of said plurality of
award symbols; at least one player input device; a plurality of
actuators supported by said housing, each actuator coupled to one
of said multiple-image panels; and a processor operable with the
player input device and the plurality of multiple-image panels to
independently randomly determine the symbol to be displayed by each
player selected multiple-image panel, if necessary, cause said
actuators to move said player-selected multiple-image panels so
that the randomly determined symbols are displayed to the player on
each of the multiple-image panels, and provide the player with any
awards associated with any of the award symbols displayed by the
player-chosen multiple-image panels.
20. The gaming device of claim 19, wherein the processor randomly
determines the symbol to be displayed by each of said player
selected plurality of multiple-image panels based upon a
probability associated with each of said plurality of award symbols
and neutral symbols on said multiple-image panels.
21. The gaming device of claim 19, wherein the awards symbols
include values and/or multipliers.
22. A gaming device comprising: a cabinet; a housing connected to
the cabinet; a plurality of symbols including a plurality of award
symbols and a plurality of neutral symbols; a plurality of
multiple-image panels supported by said housing, each
multiple-image panel including a plurality of sides, wherein at
least one of said sides displays said neutral symbol and each of at
least two of the other sides displays one of said plurality of
award symbols; a plurality of actuators supported by said housing,
each actuator coupled to one of said multiple-image panels; and a
processor operable with the plurality of multiple-image panels to
independently randomly determine the symbol to be displayed by each
of a plurality of selected multiple-image panels, if necessary,
cause said actuators to move said multiple-image panels so that the
randomly determined symbol on each selected multiple-image panel is
displayed to the player, and provide the player with an awards
associated with any of the award symbols displayed by the selected
multiple-image panels.
23. The gaming device of claim 22, wherein the processor randomly
determines the symbol to be displayed by each of said plurality of
multiple-image panels based upon a probability associated with each
of said plurality of symbols and the neutral symbol on said
multiple-image panel.
24. The gaming device of claim 22, wherein the awards symbols
include values and/or multipliers.
25. A gaming device comprising: a cabinet; a housing connected to
the cabinet; a plurality of symbols including a plurality of award
symbols and a plurality of neutral symbols; a plurality of
multiple-image panels supported by said housing, each
multiple-image panel including a plurality of sides, wherein at
least one of said sides displays said neutral symbol and at least
one other of said sides displays one of said plurality of award
symbols; at least one player input device; a plurality of actuators
supported by said housing, each actuator coupled to one of said
multiple-image panels; and a processor operable with the player
input device and the plurality of multiple-image panels to
independently randomly determine the symbol to be displayed by each
of said plurality of multiple-image panels, if necessary, cause
said actuators to move said multiple-image panels so that the
selected symbols are displayed to a player, and enable the player
to accept or reject said displayed symbols using said player input
device.
26. The gaming device of claim 25, which includes at least one
award associated with each of said award symbols, wherein if the
player accepts the displayed symbols, the processor provides the
player with the awards associated with any of said displayed award
symbols.
27. The gaming device of claim 26, wherein the processor randomly
determines the symbol to be displayed by each of said plurality of
multiple-image panels based upon a probability associated with each
of said plurality of symbols on said multiple-image panel.
28. The gaming device of claim 26, wherein the awards symbols
include values multipliers.
29. A gaming device comprising: a cabinet; a housing connected to
said cabinet; a plurality of award symbols, each associated with at
least one award; a plurality of null symbols, wherein no awards are
associated with each null symbol; a plurality of multiple-image
panels supported by said housing, each multiple-image panel
including a plurality of substantially perpendicularly arranged
sides wherein each side displays one of the award symbols or one of
the null symbols; a probability associated with each side of each
multiple-image panel; a plurality of actuators supported by said
housing, each actuator connected to one of said multiple-image
panels; and a processor operable with the plurality of
multiple-image panels to cause the actuators to move the
multiple-image panels based on an independent random determination
made for each multiple-image panel based on the probabilities
associated with the sides of said multiple-image panels so that the
award symbols or null symbols are displayed to a player.
30. A gaming device comprising: a cabinet; a plurality of symbols;
a plurality of independently movable panels supported by the
cabinet, each panel including a plurality of sides wherein at least
one of said sides displays one of the symbols, wherein the
plurality of panels extend substantially horizontally and are in
arranged in vertical alignment; and a processor operable to
independently cause each panel to move to display the symbol on
said panel based on an independent random determination associated
with said panel.
31. The gaming device of claim 30, wherein each panel has a
horizontal dimension substantially greater than its vertical
dimension.
32. The gaming device of claim 30, wherein an indicator supported
by the cabinet is associated with each panel.
33. The gaming device of claim 30, wherein each panel has a
horizontal dimension substantially greater than its vertical
dimension.
34. The gaming device of claim 30, wherein a probability is
associated with each symbol on each panel and the independent
random determination for each panel is based on the probabilities
associated with the symbols on said panel.
35. The gaming device of claim 34, wherein different probabilities
are associated with the symbols on one of said panels.
36. The gaming device of claim 34, wherein different probabilities
are associated with the symbols on each of a plurality of the
panels.
37. The gaming device of claim 34, wherein different probabilities
are associated with the symbols on each of the panels.
38. A gaming device comprising: a cabinet; a plurality of symbols;
a plurality of independently movable panels supported by the
cabinet, each panel including a plurality of sides wherein at least
one of said sides displays one of the symbols, wherein the
plurality of the panels are in arranged in rows and columns; and a
processor operable to independently cause each panel to move to
display the symbol on said panel based on an independent random
determination associated with said panel.
39. The gaming device of claim 38, wherein each panel has a
horizontal dimension substantially greater than its vertical
dimension.
40. The gaming device of claim 38, wherein an indicator supported
by the cabinet is associated with each panel.
41. The gaming device of claim 38, wherein each panel has a
horizontal dimension substantially greater than its vertical
dimension.
42. The gaming device of claim 38, wherein a probability is
associated with each symbol on each panel and the independent
random determination for each panel is based on the probabilities
associated with the symbols on said panel.
43. The gaming device of claim 42, wherein different probabilities
are associated with the symbols on one of said panels.
44. The gaming device of claim 42, wherein different probabilities
are associated with the symbols on each of a plurality of the
panels.
45. The gaming device of claim 42, wherein different probabilities
are associated with the symbols on each of the panels.
46. A gaming device comprising: a cabinet; a plurality of
selections; a plurality of symbols associated with the selections;
a plurality of independently movable panels supported by the
cabinet, each panel including a plurality of sides wherein at least
one of said sides displays one of the symbols and each said symbol
is displayed by one of the sides of one of the panels, and wherein
the plurality of panels are in arranged in vertical alignment; and
a processor operable to enable a player to select at least one of
the selections, cause the panel that displays the symbol associated
with said selection to move, if necessary, to display said symbol
to the player.
47. The gaming device of claim 46, wherein at least one symbol is a
terminator symbol.
48. The gaming device of claim 47, wherein the processor enables
the player to pick selections until the player picks the selection
which is a terminator, and causes the panel that displays the
symbol associated with each said selection to move, if necessary,
to display said symbol to the player.
49. The gaming device of claim 46, wherein the processor enables
the player to pick a predetermined number of selections and causes
the panel that displays the symbol associated with each said
selection to move, if necessary, to display said symbol to the
player.
50. The gaming device of claim 46, wherein the processor enables
the player to pick a randomly determined number of selections and
causes the panel that displays the symbol associated with each said
selection to move, if necessary, to display said symbol to the
player.
Description
PRIORITY CLAIM
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part application of
and claims the benefit of U.S. patent application Ser. No.
09/990,693, filed Nov. 9, 2001 which is incorporated herein in its
entirety, and which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 09/605,809, filed Jun. 28, 2000, now U.S. Pat.
No. 6,315,664.
COPYRIGHT NOTICE
[0002] A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains
or may contain material which is subject to copyright protection.
The copyright owner has no objection to the photocopy reproduction
by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure in
exactly the form it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office
patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights
whatsoever.
DESCRIPTION
[0003] The present invention relates in general to a gaming device,
and more particularly to a gaming device having a plurality of
multiple-image panels.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0004] Gaming device manufacturers strive to make gaming devices
that provide as much enjoyment, entertainment and excitement as
possible to players. Providing interesting and exciting primary
games and secondary games in which a player has an opportunity to
win potentially large awards or credits is one way to enhance
player enjoyment and excitement. Another way to enhance a player's
enjoyment, entertainment and excitement with a gaming device is by
including lights, sounds and other visual or audio or audio-visual
effects in the gaming machines.
[0005] Certain known gaming device use mechanical devices such as
reels or wheels to enhance the attraction of wagering gaming
machines to players and also to enhance the player's game playing
experience. These mechanical devices enable a player to see
physical representations of a game or a portion of a game, which
increases the player's enjoyment of the game.
[0006] It is desirable to offer many different bonus award values
to players in games such as secondary games. Most wheels employed
in secondary games have twenty-two values. These values are easily
readable by the player. The use of more values would generally
require the use of more space on the gaming machines. In many
instances, the use of more space on the gaming machine would
require larger gaming machines. However, larger gaming machines are
generally not desirable due to low ceilings and weight limitations
in certain gaming establishments such as riverboat casinos.
[0007] To increase player enjoyment and excitement, it is desirable
to provide new and different mechanical devices in conjunction with
wagering gaming devices.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] The present invention provides a gaming device having a
plurality of multiple-image panels. In one embodiment, the gaming
device includes a housing connected to the top of the gaming device
cabinet or supported by the cabinet of the gaming device. In one
embodiment, the housing supports a plurality of multiple-image
panels. In one embodiment, each multiple-image panel is removably
supported by or connected to the housing. In one embodiment, the
multiple-image panels are mounted such that each multiple-image
panel is adjacent to at least one other multiple-image panel. In
one embodiment of the present invention, each multiple-image panel
is in substantial vertical alignment with at least one other and
preferably a plurality of multiple-image panels, and each
multiple-image panel is also in substantial horizontal alignment
with at least one other multiple-image panel. The multiple-image
panels can display any suitable visual images, representations or
symbols such as words, pictures, values, award indicia, and awards.
A multiple-image panel can include any suitable viewing surface
which can be used to display any visual representation such as
glass or plastic, a display surface, a video monitor or screen, a
liquid crystal display or any other suitable display mechanism or
apparatus.
[0009] In one embodiment, the multiple-image panels are multi-sided
mechanical members wherein each side of the members display at
least one image. Each multiple-image panel is suitably connected,
coupled to or driven by an actuator which is operable to cause the
multiple-image panel to move independently of the other
multiple-image panels. The multiple-image panels can be directly
connected to the actuators or can be indirectly connected to the
actuators using suitable gear mechanisms or other suitable linkage
assemblies.
[0010] Each multiple-image panel can be arranged or constructed in
a variety of different configurations. In one preferred embodiment,
each multiple-image panel is a three-sided mechanical member,
wherein each side of the member is disposed in a substantially
perpendicular relation to at least one other side of the member,
and wherein each of the three sides displays an image. In the
preferred embodiment, the sides of the multiple-image panel are
substantially perpendicular. It should be appreciated that in
alternative embodiments, the sides could be arranged at angles
greater than sixty degrees and less than ninety degrees. In one
such embodiment, the two opposing sides display award symbols and
an intermediate side displays a null or neutral symbol. The
intermediate side is in substantially perpendicular arrangement
with both of the opposing sides. The sides are disposed in a
substantially perpendicular manner to facilitate movement between
the panels and display in close proximity to a display surface. It
should be appreciated that the multiple-image panels can have more
or less than the three-sides as described above. It should also be
appreciated that the multiple-image panels can be configured
differently than the sides being substantially perpendicular to
each other.
[0011] In one embodiment, the images displayed by the mechanical
multiple-image panels are backlit using lights, other illumination
devices or other suitable indicators. In one embodiment, the lights
are disposed in a channel extending between and defined by opposing
sides of the multiple-image panel. The lights enable the processor
to selectively illuminate one or more of the displays of the
plurality of multiple-image panels. Lighting symbols or images,
commonly referred to in the art as backlighting, is well known. The
processor can backlight certain images or symbols on a particular
multiple-image panel such as an award generating multiple-image
panel. Alternatively, the gaming device can backlight a plurality
of multiple-image panels.
[0012] In one embodiment of the present invention, each
multiple-image panel, actuator, and illumination device is
contained in a removable frame or unit which is removably supported
by or connected to the housing. The plurality of multiple-image
panels can, thus, be easily installed during manufacturing and
changed to modify the images, values or symbols of the gaming
device.
[0013] In one embodiment of the present invention, the housing
encloses the plurality of multiple-image panels. The housing may
additionally support a plurality of display devices other than the
multiple-image panels. The additional display devices can display
any suitable visual representation or symbol including words,
values, award indicia, awards, pictures and dynamic images.
[0014] In one embodiment, the housing supports a plurality of
separate lights, illumination devices or indicators, wherein each
indicator is associated with at least one multiple-image panel. The
indicators are used to direct the player's attention to the
associated multiple-image panels. The gaming device may
additionally include a general indicator attached to the housing,
such as the top of the housing, for directing a player's attention
to the plurality of multiple-image panels.
[0015] One embodiment of the present invention includes a plurality
of award symbols and at least one neutral symbol associated with
each of the plurality of multiple-image panels. In this embodiment,
no awards, award indicia or termination schemes are associated with
the neutral symbol. The awards associated with the award symbols
can be any suitable awards, such as values and/or multipliers.
Initially, each of the plurality of multiple-image panels displays
the neutral symbol. Upon a triggering event in a primary or
secondary game associated with the gaming device, the gaming
device's processor determines for each multiple-image panel which
symbol, such as which award symbol, if any, or the neutral symbol,
associated with each particular multiple-image panel will be
displayed to the player. If the processor's determination results
in any award symbols being selected, the processor causes the
multiple-image panels to move and display the processor-selected
award symbols.
[0016] As indicated above, in one preferred embodiment, each of the
plurality of multiple-image panels includes three sides, wherein
each side is disposed in a substantially perpendicular fashion to
at least one other side. Each of the two opposing sides displays
one of the award symbols and the intermediate side displays the
neutral symbol. In one embodiment, the multiple-image panels which
display the neutral symbols selected by the processor's
determination do not move. In one embodiment, the processor causes
the multiple-image panel to oscillate before causing the
multiple-image panel to move and display the processor-determined
award symbol. In this embodiment, the player may see the three
symbols associated with the multiple-image panel before being shown
the processor-selected symbol. This adds to the level of excitement
and anticipation.
[0017] It should be appreciated that the processor preferably
randomly independently determines the symbol to be displayed by
each of the plurality of multiple-image panels based on independent
probabilities associated with each of the symbols on each of the
multiple-image panels. The probabilities add up to one-hundred
percent. It should be further appreciated that each award symbol's
probability of being displayed varies depending on the size of the
award. As the probabilities preferably add up to one hundred
percent, it should be appreciated that when each award or neutral
symbol's probability is varied, the probability of the other
symbols on the multiple-image panel being selected and displayed
are varied as well.
[0018] It should be appreciated that in one preferred embodiment of
the present invention, the null or neutral symbol has a lower
probability of being selected than the probabilities of the award
symbols on the other sides of the multiple-image panel. It should
thus be appreciated that based on the probabilities, all of the
null or neutral symbols can be indicated in any one iteration or
play of the game. If this occurs, a consolidation award could be
provided to the player or the game could be replayed. Thus, if at
least one award or award amount or level is not obtained, the game
could be replayed or reset in a secondary game version.
[0019] More specifically, in one embodiment, upon a trigger or
triggering event in a primary or secondary game associated with the
gaming device, the processor independently determines for each
multiple-image panel which symbol will be displayed to the player
based upon probabilities associated with each symbol on each
multiple-image panel. One preferred embodiment includes the
above-mentioned plurality of three-sided multiple-image panels,
wherein each of the two opposing sides displays one of the award
symbols and the intermediate side displays the neutral symbol. In
one such embodiment, one of the award symbols on each
multiple-image panel is associated with a relatively larger award,
and the other award symbol is associated with a relatively smaller
award. In one such embodiment, the neutral symbol has the highest
probability of being displayed to the player. The award symbol
associated with the relatively smaller award has the second highest
probability of being displayed to the player. The award symbol
associated with the relatively largest award has the lowest
probability of being displayed to the player. Thus, in this
embodiment, the multiple-image panel has a neutral symbol and two
award symbols and different probabilities associated with such
symbols. The processor makes an independent determination for each
such panel based on the probabilities associated with that panel or
the symbols or outcomes associated with that panel.
[0020] Each of the plurality of multiple-image panels initially
displays the neutral symbol to the player. The processor
independently determines for each of the plurality of
multiple-image panels which symbol will be displayed to the player
based upon the probabilities of the symbols associated with that
multiple-image panel. If the processor's determination results in
any of the award symbols being selected, the processor causes the
multiple-image panels with the processor-selected award symbols to
move so that such award symbols will be displayed to the player.
The processor provides the awards associated with such award
symbols to the player. Thus, the player has an opportunity to
obtain an award associated with each of the multiple-image panels.
Based on the probabilities and the random determinations, the
processor may or may not cause each multiple-image panel to move.
It should, however, be appreciated that the multiple image panels
could be used in a variety of alternative ways in the game play of
the gaming device of the present invention. It should also be
appreciated that the determinations could be made before any of the
symbols are revealed to the player or sequentially after each
symbol is revealed to the player.
[0021] For instance, in one alternative embodiment, the processor
enables the player to choose a randomly determined or predetermined
number of multiple-image panels. The processor makes the
independent determination for each player-chosen multiple-image
panel based on the probabilities associated with the symbols of
that panel. If any of the player-chosen multiple-image panels
display one of the award symbols, the player is provided with the
associated award. It should be appreciated that the randomly
determined number of player selections could be determined in a
game or sub-game and that the predetermined number of
multiple-image panels the player can choose can alternatively be
based upon a wager made by the player or a number of trigger
symbols or a combination of trigger symbols obtained in, for
example, a primary game.
[0022] In one player selection embodiment, the player may choose
multiple-image panels which have a higher difference between the
awards (such as 1000 and 10), a moderate difference between the
awards (such as 700 and 300) or a small difference between the
awards (such as 550 and 450). This embodiment enables the player to
select a certain volatility in the range of possible awards in the
game. Appropriate probabilities would be associated with such
different award symbols.
[0023] In another embodiment, the multiple-image panels are
employed in an offer and acceptance primary or bonus game, wherein
the processor enables the player to accept or reject the awards or
award symbols offered to the player. In one embodiment, the
plurality of multiple-image panels initially display the neutral
symbols to the player. The processor independently randomly
determines for each multiple-image panel which symbol will be
displayed to the player. If the processor's determination results
in any of the award symbols being selected, the processor causes
the multiple-image panels with the processor-selected award symbols
to move and display the award symbols to the player. The processor
offers the award or awards associated with the displayed award
symbols to the player. This offer in one embodiment is the sum of
the awards or award symbols. In other embodiments, the offer can be
otherwise suitably based on the awards or award symbols. The
processor enables the player to accept or reject the offer using
one or more suitable accept and reject input devices. If the player
accepts the offer, the processor provides the displayed awards to
the player. If the player rejects the offer, the processor again
makes random independent determinations of which symbol to display
for each multiple-image panel, causes the multiple-image panels to
display any processor-selected award symbols, offers the awards
associated with any displayed award symbols to the player, and
enables the player to reject or accept the offer. This process may
be repeated a predetermined or randomly determined number of times
until a final offer is determined and provided to the player if the
player has not accepted any of the previous offers.
[0024] In another embodiment of the present invention, the
processor enables the player to select multiple-image panels and
the processor selects multiple image panels. If the player and
processor selected multiple-image panels match, the player is
provided the randomly independently determined awards, if any,
displayed by those panels.
[0025] It should be appreciated that the multiple image panels
could alternatively be used to display the award provided or
offered to the player in a primary or bonus game. In one
embodiment, the multiple-image panels display a plurality of award
symbols each associated with an award that is provided during game
play. When the player is provided with an award or awards, the
processor determines which multiple-image panel or panels display
the award symbol or symbols associated with the provided award, and
causes the multiple-image panels to move so that the award symbol
or symbols associated with the provided award are displayed to the
player.
[0026] In one embodiment, the multiple-image panels each display a
plurality of values. If the player is awarded with a value during
game play, the processor determines which multiple-image panel
displays the awarded value and causes the multiple-image panel to
move and display the award value. If the awarded value is more than
the highest value displayed by the multiple-image panels, the
processor determines which multiple-image panels display a total
value equal to the awarded value, and cause multiple-image panels
displaying the total value to move and display the total value
equaling the awarded value to the player.
[0027] In another embodiment, the player could select one or more
of a plurality of displayed selections, such as in the form of a
plurality of answers to a question. The selections are associated
with award symbols of the multiple-image panels, which are operable
to move to reveal one of the two different awards associated with
the multiple-image panels. The processor can provide the selections
to the player a randomly determined or predetermined number of
times, or alternatively in another embodiment until a selection
having an associated terminator is selected. In this embodiment,
the processor can make an independent determination based on the
probabilities associated with each of the award symbols and neutral
symbol of each multiple-image panel. In another alternative
embodiment, one or more of the multiple-image panels has a
terminator associated with one of the side and the processor makes
the determination based on the probabilities associated with the
award symbols, the neutral symbol and/or the terminator. When the
terminator is randomly determined the game ends.
[0028] In an alternative embodiment, the gaming device enables the
player to select one of a plurality of groups of multiple-image
panels, such as one of the columns or rows of panels. The processor
makes the independent random determinations for those player
selected multiple-image panels. In a further alternative
embodiment, the gaming device enables the player to sequentially
select multiple-image panels from a group of multiple-image panels,
such as each row of multiple image panels.
[0029] In one embodiment of the present invention, the processor
randomly causes or alternatively causes according to a
predetermined routine, the multiple-image panels to oscillate and
the indicators to flash before displaying an award to be provided
to the player, thus, giving the player a greater sense of
anticipation. In one embodiment of the present invention, the
processor causes the multiple-image panels to display awards
simultaneously and causes the indicators to flash randomly or
alternatively.
[0030] It is therefore an advantage of the present invention to
provide a gaming device having one or more multiple-image
panels.
[0031] Another advantage of the present invention is to enhance the
indication of game outcomes and awards to players.
[0032] Still another advantage of the present invention is to
increase the attraction of a gaming device.
[0033] Additional features and advantages of the present invention
are described in, and will be apparent from, the following Detailed
Description of the Invention and the figures.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0034] FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B are front perspective views of general
embodiments of the gaming device of the present invention.
[0035] FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram of the electronic
configuration of one embodiment of the gaming device of the present
invention.
[0036] FIG. 3 is a schematic side view of the housing,
multiple-image panels, indicators and general indicator of one
embodiment of the present invention.
[0037] FIG. 4 is an enlarged perspective view of a multiple-image
panel of the embodiment of FIG. 3 shown removed from the
housing.
[0038] FIG. 5 is a front perspective view of the housing,
multiple-image panels, indicators and general indicator of one
embodiment of the present invention.
[0039] FIG. 6 is a schematic side view of the housing,
multiple-image panels, indicators and general indicator of the
embodiment of FIG. 5.
[0040] FIG. 7 is a fragmentary front perspective view of the
housing, multiple-image panels and additional display devices of an
alternative embodiment of the present invention.
[0041] FIG. 8 is a front perspective view of a removable frame or
unit of the embodiment of FIG. 7 which includes a multiple-image
panel, actuator and belt.
[0042] FIG. 9. is a schematic top view of the removable unit of the
embodiment of FIG. 7 which includes a multiple-image panel,
actuator and belt.
[0043] FIG. 10 is a front perspective view of one of a
multiple-image panel of the embodiment of FIG. 7.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Gaming Device and Electronics
[0044] Referring now to the drawings, two embodiments of the gaming
device of the present invention are illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1B
as gaming device 10a and gaming device 10b, respectively. Gaming
device 10a and/or gaming device 10b are generally referred to
herein as gaming device 10. In one embodiment, gaming device 10 is
a slot machine having the controls, image panels and features of a
conventional slot machine. It is constructed so that a player can
operate it while standing or sitting, and gaming device 10 may be
mounted in console or cabinet. However, it should be appreciated
that gaming device 10 can be constructed as a pub-style table-top
game (not shown) which a player can operate preferably while
sitting. Furthermore, gaming device 10 can be constructed with
varying cabinet and display designs, as illustrated by the designs
shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B.
[0045] Gaming device 10 can incorporate any primary game such as
slot, poker, blackjack or keno, any of their bonus triggering
events and any of their bonus round games. The symbols and indicia
used on and in gaming device 10 may be in mechanical, electrical,
electronic or video form.
[0046] As illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1B, gaming device 10 includes
a coin slot 12 and bill acceptor 14 where the player inserts money,
coins or tokens. The player can place coins in the coin slot 12 or
paper money in the bill acceptor 14. Other devices could be used
for accepting payment such as readers or validators for credit
cards or debit cards. When a player inserts money in gaming device
10, a number of credits corresponding to the amount deposited is
shown in a credit display 16. After depositing the appropriate
amount of money, a player can begin the game by pulling arm 18 or
pushing play button 20. Play button 20 can be any play activator
used by the player which starts any game or sequence of events in
the gaming device.
[0047] As shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, gaming device 10 also includes
a bet display 22 and a bet one button 24. The player places a bet
by pushing the bet one button 24. The player can increase the bet
by one credit each time the player pushes the bet one button 24.
When the player pushes the bet one button 24, the number of credits
shown in the credit display 16 decreases by one, and the number of
credits shown in the bet display 22 increases by one. The gaming
device can include other wager indicators such as a bet max
button.
[0048] A player may cash out and thereby receive a number of coins
corresponding to the number of remaining credits by pushing a cash
out button 26. When the player cashes out, the player receives the
coins in a coin payout tray 28. The gaming device 10 may employ
other payout mechanisms such as credit slips redeemable by a
cashier or electronically recordable cards which keep track of the
player's credits.
[0049] Gaming device 10 also includes one or more display devices.
The embodiment shown in FIG. 1A includes a central display device
30, and the alternative embodiment shown in FIG. 1B includes a
central display device 30 as well as an upper display device 32.
Gaming device 10 preferably displays a plurality of reels 34,
preferably three to five reels 34 in mechanical or video form at
one or more of the display devices. A display device can be any
viewing surface such as glass, a video monitor or screen, a liquid
crystal display or any other display mechanism or apparatus. If the
reels 34 are in video form, the display device for the video reels
34 is preferably a video monitor. Each reel 34 displays a plurality
of indicia such as bells, hearts, fruits, numbers, letters, bars or
other images which preferably correspond to a theme associated with
the gaming device 10. Furthermore, gaming device 10 preferably
includes speakers 36 for making sounds or playing music.
[0050] As illustrated in FIG. 2, the general electronic
configuration of gaming device 10 preferably includes: a processor
38; a memory device 40 for storing program code or other data; a
central display device 30; an upper display device 32; a sound card
42; a plurality of speakers 36; and one or more input devices 44.
The processor 38 is preferably a microprocessor or
microcontroller-based platform which is capable of displaying
images, symbols and other indicia such as images of people,
characters, places, things and faces of cards. The memory device 40
can include random access memory (RAM) 46 for storing event data or
other data generated or used during a particular game. The memory
device 40 can also include read only memory (ROM) 48 for storing
program code which controls the gaming device 10 so that it plays a
particular game in accordance with applicable game rules and pay
tables.
[0051] As illustrated in FIG. 2, the player preferably uses the
input devices 44, such as pull arm 18, play button 20, the bet one
button 24 and the cash out button 26 to input signals into gaming
device 10. In certain instances it is preferable to use a touch
screen 50 and an associated touch screen controller 52 instead of a
conventional video monitor display device. Touch screen 50 and
touch screen controller 52 are connected to a video controller 54
and processor 38. A player can make decisions and input signals
into the gaming device 10 by touching touch screen 50 at the
appropriate places. As further illustrated in FIG. 2, the processor
38 can be connected to coin slot 12 or bill acceptor 14. The
processor 38 can be programmed to require a player to deposit a
certain amount of money in order to start the game.
[0052] It should be appreciated that although a processor 38 and
memory device 40 are preferable implementations of the present
invention, the present invention can also be implemented using one
or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASIC's) or other
hard-wired devices, or using mechanical devices (collectively or
alternatively referred to herein as a "processor"). Furthermore,
although the processor 38 and memory device 40 preferably reside on
each gaming device 10 unit, it is possible to provide some or all
of their functions at a central location such as a network server
for communication to a playing station such as over a local area
network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), Internet connection,
microwave link, and the like. The processor 38 and memory device 40
is generally referred to herein as the computer or controller.
[0053] With reference to FIGS. 1A, 1B and 2, to operate the gaming
device 10 in one embodiment the player must insert the appropriate
amount of money or tokens at coin slot 12 or bill acceptor 14 and
then pull the arm 18 or push the play button 20. The reels 34 will
then begin to spin. Eventually, the reels 34 will come to a stop.
As long as the player has credits remaining, the player can spin
the reels 34 again. Depending upon where the reels 34 stop, the
player may or may not win additional credits.
[0054] In addition to winning credits in this manner, preferably
gaming device 10 also gives players the opportunity to win credits
in a bonus round. This type of gaming device 10 will include a
program which will automatically begin a bonus round when the
player has achieved a qualifying condition in the game. This
qualifying condition can be a particular arrangement of indicia on
a display device. The gaming device 10 preferably uses a
video-based central display device 30 to enable the player to play
the bonus round. In one embodiment, the qualifying condition is a
predetermined combination of indicia appearing on a plurality of
reels 34. As illustrated in the five reel slot game shown in FIGS.
1A and 1B, the qualifying condition could be the number seven
appearing on three adjacent reels 34 along a payline 56. It should
be appreciated that the present invention can include one or more
paylines displayed in a horizontal and/or diagonal fashion.
Multiple-Image Panels
[0055] As illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1B, in one embodiment the
gaming device 10 includes a plurality of multiple-image panels 66a,
66b, 66c, 66d and 66e suitably mounted in a housing 60 connected to
the top of the cabinet of the gaming device 10. Each multiple-image
panel is preferably located adjacent to at least one other
multiple-image panel. Each multiple-image panel has a plurality of
sides which are each displayed or are adapted to display at least
one image or symbol. In the illustrated embodiment, the panels
extend substantially horizontally and are aligned vertically. The
horizontal dimension of each panel is substantially greater than
the vertical dimension of each panel. In one embodiment, the
horizontal dimension is approximately two, three or four times
greater than the vertical dimension. It should also be appreciated
that the panels could be arranged to extend substantially
vertically and be arranged horizontally. Thus, the panels in one
embodiment are arranged in a column, in another embodiment arranged
in a row and in another embodiment arranged in rows and columns. It
should also be appreciated that the multiple-image panel can
display any visual image, representation or symbol such as awards,
award indicia, values, pictures and words. Each multiple-image
panel has multiple viewing surfaces which are be adapted to display
an image.
[0056] As further illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1B, one embodiment of
the present invention includes a plurality of indicators 62a, 62b,
62c, 62d and 62e in FIG. 1B. Each indicator is associated with a
multiple-image panel. In this embodiment, each of the indicators
62a to 62e is located adjacent to the associated multiple-image
panel 66a, 66b, 66c, 66d and 66e. A general indicator 64 is also
connected to the housing 60 as shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B. The
multiple-image panels 66a to 66e, indicators 62a, 62b, 62c, 62d and
62e in FIG. 1B, and the general indicator 64 are all connected to
and controlled by the processor 38, as illustrated in FIG. 2.
[0057] As illustrated in FIG. 3, in one embodiment of the present
invention, the multiple-image panels are multiple-sided mechanical
panels. In one embodiment, the multiple-image panels 74a, 74b, 74c
and 74d are a plurality of three-sided mechanical panels supported
by the housing 60. The plurality of multiple-image panels 74a, 74b,
74c and 74d are vertically aligned. Each multiple-image panel 74a
to 74d includes an image or symbol on at least two of the sides as
illustrated in FIG. 4. The multiple-image panels 74a, 74b, 74c and
74d are suitably connected to axles 70a, 70b, 70c and 70d,
respectively which are attached to the housing 60. The
multiple-image panels 74a, 74b, 74c and 74d and axles 70a, 70b, 70c
and 70d are respectively connected to a plurality of actuators 72a,
72b, 72c and 72d. The processor of the gaming device causes the
plurality of actuators 72a to 72d to move or rotate each of the
multiple-image panels 74a to 74d. Each multiple-image panel 74a to
74d can be rotated independently of each other. The housing 60 in
this embodiment of the present invention also supports the
plurality of indicators 62a, 62b, 62c and 62d and the general
indicator 64.
[0058] As illustrated in FIG. 5, in another embodiment of the
present invention, the multiple-image panels 84a, 84b, 84c and 84d
are a plurality of double-sided mechanical panels which are
supported by the housing 60. The plurality of multiple-image panels
84a to 84d are vertically aligned. Each multiple-image panel is
adapted to display at least one image or symbol on at least one of
its sides. The multiple-image panels 84a, 84b, 84c and 84d are
respectively suitably connected to a plurality of axles 80a, 80b,
80c and 80d which are supported by the housing 60. The
multiple-image panels 84a, 84b, 84c and 84d and axles 80a, 80b, 80c
and 80d are respectively connected to a plurality of actuators 82a,
82b, 82c and 82d as illustrated in FIG. 6. The processor of the
gaming device causes the plurality of actuators 82a to 82d to
rotate or move each multiple-image panel 84a to 84d. The processor
is operable to cause each multiple-image panel 84a to 84d to rotate
independently of each other. The housing 60 in this embodiment of
the present invention also supports the plurality of indicators
62a, 62b, 62c and 62d and the general indicator 64.
[0059] As seen in FIG. 7, in one embodiment of the present
invention, the housing 60 supports a plurality of multiple-image
panels 94a, 94b, 94c, 94d, 94e, 94f, 94g and 94h. In this
alternative embodiment, each image panel 94a to 94h is vertically
aligned and horizontally aligned with at least one other image
panel 94a to 94h. Each of the plurality of multiple-image panels
94a, 94b, 94c, 94d, 94e, 94f, 94g and 94h is included in one of a
plurality of removable frames or units 110a, 110b, 110c, 110d,
110e, 110f, 110g and 110h which are removably supported by the
housing 60. In the illustrated embodiment, the frame 112 of each of
the plurality of removable frames or units 110a, 110b, 110c, 110d,
110e, 110f, 110g and 110h is removably attached to the housing
60.
[0060] The housing 60 in addition to the multiple-image panels 94a
to 94h supports a number of other different display devices 104,
106 and 108. The additional displays 104, 106 and 108 can be any
viewing surface including glass or plastic, video monitor or
screen, liquid crystal display or any other suitable type of
display device. The additional display devices 104, 106 and 108 are
preferably adapted to display images relating to the theme of the
gaming device, information relating to the game played on the
gaming device, advertisements and/or information relating to the
awards of the multiple-image panels. The housing 60 also supports
player input devices 100 and 102. In one embodiment, the display
106 directs the player to select one of two inputs 100 and 102
which in one embodiment are accept offer and reject offer
inputs.
[0061] As illustrated in FIG. 8, each removable frame or unit 110
supports a multiple-image panel 94 and its associated actuator 92
which is supported by the frame 112. The actuator 92 is suitably
connected to the multiple-image panel 94 by a linkage assembly, in
this embodiment the linkage assemble includes a drive belt 98. The
processor of the gaming device causes the actuator 92 to move,
rotate or oscillate the multiple-image panel 94. As seen in FIG. 9,
the multiple-image panel 94 is connected to two axles 90a and 90b.
Each side of the multiple-image panel 94 is connected to one of the
two axles 90a and 90b which are supported by the frame 112. In this
embodiment, an illumination device or light 114 is disposed between
two opposing sides of the multiple-image panel 94. The processor
causes the light 114 to backlight the multiple-image panel. In this
embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 10, the multiple-image panel 94
includes a three-sided member, wherein each side is disposed in a
substantially perpendicular fashion to at least one other side.
[0062] As discussed above, embodiments of the present invention
which utilize multiple-image panels having a plurality of sides can
display a different image or symbol on each of the sides. It should
be appreciated that the multiple-image panels can include more than
three sides. It should also be appreciated that at least one side
of the multiple-image panel may include an image or symbol other
than an award or value and in some alternative embodiments at least
one side will have no images, symbols or awards displayed.
Additionally, in other embodiments of the present invention, the
multiple-image panels may also slide or oscillate so as to display
more than one image, award or symbol. However, it should be
appreciated that one advantage of the present invention is to save
space by containing multiple symbols, such as award symbols, in the
same physical area.
[0063] It should also be appreciated that the actuator connected to
the multiple-image panels or axles may be a solenoid, motor, lever
or biasing device, or a combination of these devices which causes
the multiple-image panel to rotate or move. The actuator may also
be connected to the axle or multiple-image panel using a suitable
linkage assembly. It should be appreciated that in an alternative
embodiment, the multiple-image panels may be otherwise connected,
such as directly connected to the actuators without the support of
the axles.
[0064] It should further be appreciated that the multiple-image
panels can be supported directly by the gaming device's cabinet. It
should also be appreciated that the housing which supports one or a
plurality of multiple-image panels can be suitably connected to the
cabinet other than to the top of the cabinet.
[0065] The multiple-image panels can be used to display a plurality
of symbols which are associated with awards, values, multipliers,
termination schemes, or other types of award or termination
indicia. It should also be appreciated that the multiple-image
panels can also display symbols which are null or neutral. These
neutral symbols are not associated with any awards, values,
multipliers or other types of award indicia. The plurality of
multiple-image panels can be used in a variety of ways to lend
additional excitement and anticipation to a gaming device's primary
and/or bonus games.
[0066] In one embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of
multiple-image panels display a plurality of award symbols and at
least one neutral symbol. The multiple-image panels are multi-sided
and each side displays one award symbol or one neutral symbol. In
one embodiment, the awards associated with the award symbols can be
values and/or multipliers. The plurality of multiple-image panels
initially display the neutral symbol and upon a triggering event in
the primary or bonus game of the gaming device, the processor
independently randomly determines for each of the plurality of
multiple-image panels which symbol associated with each
multiple-image panel will be displayed to the player. If the
processor's determination results in any award symbols being
selected to be displayed by the plurality of multiple-image panels,
the processor causes the multiple-image panels which display the
processor-selected award symbols to move and display the selected
award symbols. The processor provides the player with the award
associated with any displayed award symbols. The other game play
descriptions are described above in the summary of the
invention.
[0067] While the present invention is described in connection with
what is presently considered to be the most practical and preferred
embodiments, it should be appreciated that the invention is not
limited to the disclosed embodiments, and is intended to cover
various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within
the spirit and scope of the claims. Modifications and variations in
the present invention may be made without departing from the novel
aspects of the invention as defined in the claims, and this
application is limited only by the scope of the claims.
* * * * *