U.S. patent application number 10/926811 was filed with the patent office on 2005-01-27 for gaming device providing tournament entries.
Invention is credited to Baerlocher, Anthony J., Chilton, Ward W., Lowell, Denise C..
Application Number | 20050020352 10/926811 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 25503587 |
Filed Date | 2005-01-27 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050020352 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Chilton, Ward W. ; et
al. |
January 27, 2005 |
Gaming device providing tournament entries
Abstract
A gaming device which enables a player to enter a tournament
based on an outcome achieved on the gaming device. In one
embodiment, the gaming device includes a set of reels including at
least one qualification symbol. If at least one qualification
symbol is displayed within a display device of the gaming device,
the player qualifies for a tournament to be played at a later time.
The tournament is preferably a slot machine tournament. One or more
prizes are awarded at the tournament, including high value items
such as cars and motorcycles as well as lower valued items such as
hats, T-shirts, jackets, memorabilia and other merchandise. In this
regard, the tournament provides convenience to a casino as far as
prize acquisition, distribution and record keeping are concerned
because prizes are awarded at one specific event instead of on
sporadic occasions. The payout percentages of the gaming devices
providing entry into the tournament are set relative to a cost of
the tournament.
Inventors: |
Chilton, Ward W.; (Reno,
NV) ; Lowell, Denise C.; (Reno, NV) ;
Baerlocher, Anthony J.; (Reno, NV) |
Correspondence
Address: |
BELL, BOYD & LLOYD LLC
P. O. BOX 1135
CHICAGO
IL
60690-1135
US
|
Family ID: |
25503587 |
Appl. No.: |
10/926811 |
Filed: |
August 26, 2004 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
10926811 |
Aug 26, 2004 |
|
|
|
09960762 |
Sep 21, 2001 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
463/20 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G07F 17/32 20130101;
G07F 17/3276 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
463/020 |
International
Class: |
A63F 009/24 |
Claims
1. A gaming device comprising: a primary game; at least one
non-qualifying outcome in the primary game; at least one qualifying
outcome in the primary game, wherein a player qualifies for a
multi-player tournament to be held in the future when the player
achieves the qualifying outcome, wherein the tournament is selected
by the player from a plurality of different tournaments; and a
paytable for said primary game, said paytable including: (a) a
first average payout percentage greater than zero and less than
one-hundred which accounts for all of the non-qualifying outcomes
in the primary game, and (b) a second average payout percentage
greater than zero and less than one-hundred which accounts for at
least a portion of a value guaranteed to be won in said tournament,
wherein the second average payout percentage is at least in part
based on: (i) a fixed total number of gaming devices which each can
provide a qualifying outcome for the tournament, (ii) a number of
days between at least two sequential tournaments, (iii) an
estimated average number of games played per gaming device per day,
and (iv) an estimated average bet in monetary units per game
played.
2. The gaming device of claim 1, wherein the primary game is a slot
game.
3. The gaming device of claim 2, wherein the qualifying outcome is
a qualification symbol obtained on an active payline.
4. The gaming device of claim 2, wherein the qualifying outcome is
a plurality of qualification symbols obtained on an active
payline.
5. The gaming device of claim 2, wherein the qualifying outcome is
a plurality of qualification symbols displayed within a display
device in a scattered arrangement.
6. The gaming device of claim 1, which includes a plurality of
non-qualifying outcomes.
7. The gaming device of claim 1, wherein the primary game is a
video poker game.
8. The gaming device of claim 7, wherein the qualifying outcome is
a predetermined winning combination of a plurality of cards in said
video poker game.
9. The gaming device of claim 7, which includes a qualification
symbol, and wherein the qualifying outcome is a winning combination
of a plurality of said cards in combination with said qualification
symbol.
10. The gaming device of claim 1, wherein the primary game is a
video blackjack game.
11. The gaming device of claim 1, wherein the primary game is a
video keno game.
12. The gaming device of claim 1, wherein the tournaments are
selected from the group consisting of: a slot machine tournament; a
poker tournament; a blackjack tournament; a keno tournament; a
raffle; and a lottery.
13. The gaming device of claim 1, including a payout percentage,
said payout percentage set relative to a cost of the
tournament.
14. The gaming device of claim 1, wherein a minimum wager in the
primary game is required to qualify for the tournament.
15. The gaming device of claim 1, which includes a printer for
printing a tournament entry when the qualifying outcome is achieved
by the player.
16. The gaming device of claim 1, wherein a hand-pay state is
entered when the qualifying outcome is achieved by the player.
17. The gaming device of claim 1, which includes a plurality of
qualifying outcomes, wherein the player qualifies for the
multi-player tournament when the player achieves one of the
qualifying outcomes.
18. The gaming device of claim 1, wherein the qualifying outcome
includes a combination of at least two predetermined outcomes in
the primary game.
19. A gaming device comprising: a primary game; a triggering event
in the primary game; a bonus game triggered by said triggering
event; at least one non-qualifying outcome in the bonus game; at
least one qualifying outcome in the bonus game, wherein a player
qualifies for a multi-player tournament to be held in the future
when the player achieves the qualifying outcome, wherein the
tournament is selected by the player from a plurality of different
tournaments; and a paytable for said primary game and said bonus
game, said paytable including (a) a first average payout percentage
greater than zero and less than one-hundred which accounts for all
winning outcomes in the primary game and non-qualifying outcomes in
the bonus game, and (b) a second average payout percentage greater
than zero and less than one-hundred which accounts for at least a
portion of a value guaranteed to be won in said tournament, wherein
the second average payout percentage is at least in part based on:
(i) a fixed total number of gaming devices which each can provide a
qualifying outcome for the tournament, (ii) a number of days
between at least two sequential tournaments, (iii) an estimated
average number of games played per gaming device per day, and (iv)
an estimated average bet in monetary units per game played.
20. The gaming device of claim 19, which includes a plurality of
non-qualifying outcomes.
21. The gaming device of claim 19, wherein the bonus game is a slot
game.
22. The gaming device of claim 19, wherein the bonus game is a
video poker game.
23. The gaming device of claim 19, wherein the bonus game is a
video blackjack game.
24. The gaming device of claim 19, wherein the bonus game is a
video keno game.
25. The gaming device of claim 19, wherein the tournaments are
selected from the group consisting of: a slot machine tournament; a
poker tournament; a blackjack tournament; a keno tournament; a
raffle; and a lottery.
26. The gaming device of claim 19, wherein a minimum wager is
required to qualify for the tournament.
27. The gaming device of claim 19, which includes a printer for
printing a tournament entry when the qualifying outcome is achieved
by the player.
28. The gaming device of claim 19, wherein a hand-pay state is
entered when the qualifying outcome is achieved by the player.
29. The gaming device of claim 19, wherein the qualifying outcome
includes a combination of at least two combinations of outcomes in
the bonus game.
30. The gaming device of claim 19, wherein the bonus game includes
a plurality of player selectable selections and wherein the
qualifying outcome is associated with at least one selection.
31. The gaming device of claim 19, wherein the bonus game includes
a player offer acceptance type game and the qualifying outcome is
associated with one of a plurality of offers made to the
player.
32. A method for providing a tournament entry in association with
play of a gaming device, the method comprising the steps of: (a)
providing a controller; (b) storing at least one non-qualifying
outcome within the controller; (c) storing at least one qualifying
outcome within the controller; (d) randomly producing the
qualifying outcome; and (e) providing the tournament entry to the
player achieving the qualifying outcome for the tournament wherein
the tournament is selected by the player from a plurality of
different tournaments, and wherein a paytable including a first
average payout percentage greater than zero and less than one
hundred accounts for each said non-qualifying outcome and a second
average payout percentage greater than zero and less than one
hundred accounts for a value guaranteed to be won in said
tournament, wherein the second average payout percentage is at
least in part based on: (i) a fixed total number of gaming devices
which each can provide a qualifying outcome for the tournament,
(ii) a number of days between at least two sequential tournaments,
(iii) an estimated average number of games played per gaming device
per day, and (iv) an estimated average bet in monetary units per
game played.
33. The method of claim 32, which includes the step of printing the
tournament entry when the player achieves the qualifying
outcome.
34. The method of claim 32, which includes selecting at least one
tournament to be held on a predetermined day in the future.
35. The method of claim 32, which includes providing an additional
monetary award to the player when the player obtains the qualifying
outcome.
36. The method of claim 32, which includes setting a payout
percentage for the gaming device based on a cost of the
tournament.
37. The method of claim 32, wherein the qualifying outcome is
adapted to be produced in a primary game.
38. The method of claim 32, wherein the qualifying outcome is
adapted to be produced in a bonus game.
39. A tournament comprising: a plurality of tournament gaming
devices adapted to be played by a plurality of contestants, said
contestants qualifying to participate in said tournament by
achieving a qualifying outcome on one of a plurality of qualifying
gaming devices which enables the player to select said tournament
from a plurality of different tournaments, each said qualifying
gaming devices capable of producing said qualifying outcome and a
plurality of non-qualifying outcomes; and at least one prize
awarded to one of the contestants which play the tournament gaming
devices, wherein each said gaming device has a paytable having a
first average payout percentage greater than zero and less than one
hundred which accounts for the plurality of non-qualifying outcomes
and a second average payout percentage greater than zero and less
than one hundred which accounts for a value guaranteed to be won in
the tournament, wherein the second average payout percentage is at
least in part based on (i) a fixed total number of gaming devices
which each can provide a qualifying outcome for the tournament,
(ii) a number of days between at least two sequential tournaments,
(iii) an estimated average number of games played per gaming device
per day, and (iv) an estimated average bet in monetary units per
game played.
40. The tournament of claim 39, wherein the tournament gaming
devices are slot machines.
41. The tournament of claim 39, wherein the tournament gaming
devices are video poker gaming machines.
42. The tournament of claim 39, wherein a theme of the tournament
is related to the theme of the qualifying gaming devices.
43. A gaming device comprising: a display device; a primary game; a
plurality of reels in said primary game; a plurality of symbols on
the plurality of reels including at least one qualification symbol
on at least one of the reels; at least one non-qualifying outcome
involving the plurality of symbols; and at least one qualifying
outcome involving the plurality of symbols, wherein a player
qualifies for a tournament when the player achieves the qualifying
outcome and wherein the tournament is selected by the player from a
plurality of different tournaments; and a paytable for said primary
game, said paytable including (a) a first average payout percentage
greater than zero and less than one-hundred which accounts for all
of the non-qualifying outcomes, and (b) a second average payout
percentage greater than zero and less than one-hundred which
accounts for at least a portion of a value guaranteed to be won in
said tournament, wherein the second average payout percentage is at
least in part based on: (i) a fixed total number of gaming devices
which each can provide a qualifying outcome for the tournament,
(ii) a number of days between at least two sequential tournaments,
(iii) an estimated average number of games played per gaming device
per day, and (iv) an estimated average bet in monetary units per
game played.
44. The gaming device of claim 43, wherein the qualifying outcome
is at least one qualifying symbol displayed on an active
payline.
45. The gaming device of claim 43, wherein the qualifying outcome
is a plurality of qualification symbols displayed on an active
payline.
46. The gaming device of claim 43, wherein the qualifying outcome
is a plurality of qualification symbols displayed within a display
device in a scattered arrangement.
47. The gaming device of claim 43, wherein the tournament is
selected from the group consisting of: a slot machine tournament; a
poker tournament; a blackjack tournament; a keno tournament; a
raffle; and a lottery.
48. The gaming device of claim 43, which includes a payout
percentage which accounts for a cost of the tournament.
Description
PRIORITY CLAIM
[0001] This application is a continuation of, claims priority to
and the benefit of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/960,762,
filed on Sep. 21, 2001, the entire contents of which are
incorporated herein.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Gaming devices are well known. Most gaming devices provide
monetary awards such as coins or tokens to the player. If the
awards are over a certain predetermined value, or number of coins
or credits, most gaming devices provide hand pays for the players.
Other known gaming devices provide physical prizes. Generally, a
player will qualify to win a prize by achieving a certain result on
a gaming device. In one example, a number of gaming devices may be
associated with a valuable award or prize such as a car or
motorcycle.
[0003] Gaming establishments such as casinos favor such prizes
because they can use the actual prize, such as a car or motorcycle,
in a display in the casino associated with the games. The chance of
winning such prizes provides additional incentives for players to
play the gaming devices. However, casinos are reluctant to offer
such prizes associated with certain results on the gaming devices
because there are various problems and complications associated
with prize acquisition, distribution and record keeping.
[0004] For example, if the casino decides to offer a prize in
association with play of a gaming device, casino personnel must
determine which gaming devices to associate with offering of the
prize, whether slot machine, video poker, video blackjack, keno,
etc. Casino personnel also have to determine what kind of prize to
offer. The prizes could be large in size or value, such as a car or
motorcycle. In the alternative, the prices could be smaller in size
or value, such as T-shirts, jackets, hats, key-chains, memorabilia
or other merchandise. Casino personnel must determine whether the
proposed prize or prizes will fit within a predetermined budget.
Accordingly, casino personnel must also determine the quantity of
the prizes offered.
[0005] Other considerations include choosing a vendor from whom the
prizes will be purchased. Once a vendor is chosen, there usually
will be contractual negotiations dealing with prices and quantities
purchased. This takes time and effort by casino personnel. The
negotiations may have to be performed by legal counsel, which also
provides an added expense. Casino personnel must also consider
delivery of the prizes to the winning players. In some cases,
separate negotiations with a distributor may be necessary. Casino
personnel then face issues such as which distributor to choose, who
is responsible if the prizes become damaged during the delivery,
insurance costs for the prizes, as well as delivery due dates,
returns, complaints and potential product liability, among other
concerns.
[0006] Storage of the prizes is another consideration. Many casinos
are part of hotels which have limited storage areas for
smaller-sized prizes and in most cases no storage area for larger
prizes such as cars or motorcycles. Casino personnel must make
arrangements with storage facilities and address issues such as
time of storage, amount of storage space needed and cost of
storage. Personnel must also insure that the prizes are properly
delivered to the storage facility. If the prizes are stored
off-site from the casino, casino personnel must also factor in the
cost of having the prizes eventually delivered to the casino,
whether by casino personnel, storage facility personnel, or a third
party. If the casino stores the prizes at the hotel, casino
personnel must determine whether there is adequate space for the
prizes. It must also determine the amount of time the prizes will
be stored.
[0007] Wherever the prizes may be stored, casino personnel may also
need to consider whether additional security is required to prevent
theft of the prizes. If the prizes are stored off-site, casino
personnel may have to negotiate with the storage facility for
security services. Or, casino personnel may have to hire a third
party to prevent theft of the prizes. Moreover, large and small
prizes, whether by size or value, may require different measures in
order to be secured. Large prizes may require constant monitoring.
Smaller prizes may require the purchasing of additional security
devices such as safes sensors because they are more prone to theft.
As a result, casino personnel who already monitor gaming devices
for hand pays, large payouts and assorted maintenance may be faced
with additional security tasks which may impair their ability to
attend to players' inquiries. In the alternative, the casino may
have to hire additional personnel, which can be expensive for the
casino.
[0008] Another concern is advertising or marketing of the offered
prize or prizes. Personnel must consider where to advertise the
prize offering, such as within the hotel, other hotels, on the
internet, or other venues. They must also factor in the cost of
advertising. As far as marketing is concerned, casino personnel
must decide if the prize will be on display in an area near the
gaming devices associated with the prize. If, for example, the
casino decides to offer a car as a prize and decides to display the
car near the associated gaming devices, casino personnel must
consider how to display the car, as well as any associated
decorations. The materials for the display may have a substantial
cost which the casino must consider. The allotted spacing within
the casino is another consideration. If certain gaming devices must
be repositioned to make room for the display, casino personnel must
factor in the time as well as costs needed to perform this task. In
some cases, casino personnel may need to employ a third party to
assist in designing and constructing the display. Casino personnel
must then consider which service provider to choose as well as the
costs of such services.
[0009] Once erected, the display must be maintained. If a platform
is used to display the car, the platform must be checked
occasionally for weaknesses to avoid any possible accidents
involving players, personnel or casino property. The display must
also be monitored to insure that it is in a presentable condition.
Casino personnel must also consider whether to employ extra
security personnel to protect the display from theft or damage.
[0010] Casino personnel must address another set of issues when a
player wins the prize. If, for example, the prize the player wins
is a car, and the casino only has the car specifically located on
the display, personnel must be prepared to remove the car from the
display. This must be done without causing a distraction to other
players or interfering with play of other games. If the casino will
give the player a different car, the car may have to be brought
from the storage facility to the casino to be presented to the
layer. The casino again faces delivery issues, including time
constraints the player may be under. The casino must also determine
how the car will be delivered to the player if the player wants the
car delivered to a location remote from the casino, such as the
player's home (i.e., such as the player is on vacation).
Accordingly, the casino has to consider if a third party is
required to deliver the car. If a third party is used, questions
arise as to who will pay the delivery costs, the casino or the
player. Insurance costs for delivery of the car is another concern.
Moreover, if the car is not in working order when the player
receives the car, questions arise as to who is responsible.
[0011] The casino must also be prepared for a situation in which
the player wins a prize but does not want to keep the prize. In the
above example, if the player does not accept the car, the casino
must be prepared to offer an alternate prize, such as a monetary
equivalent, or another physical prize or prizes. The casino may
also be concerned that the alternate physical prize or prizes have
a similar monetary value.
[0012] Another issue to address is the organizing of records
associated with conveying the prize to the player. For example,
player information must be gathered. If the prize includes a title,
the title must be transferred from the casino to the player.
Inventory must also be kept on the number of prizes that have been
won. Maintaining these records can be a tedious and expensive
task.
[0013] There are also tax concerns which must be addressed. Federal
law dictates that a player must pay a tax on any win over $1200. If
the prize is valued at $20,000, the player may not appreciate, or
may not be able to afford, to pay a tax on the value of the prize.
If the player then refuses the car, the casino must consider
alternative awards to give the player.
[0014] Smaller prizes, whether in size or value, may pose increased
complications than larger prizes because they are won in greater
volume. For example, T-shirts offered in conjunction with gaming
device play will most likely be awarded more often than a car which
is offered in conjunction with gaming device play. As such, greater
volumes of small prizes must be purchased by the casino.
Determining the quantity to purchase, delivery methods of the
prizes, displaying of the prizes, delivery of the prizes to the
player, security methods and recordkeeping can be more tedious for
these small prizes than for larger prizes due to the greater volume
of prizes.
[0015] Casino personnel currently have daily concerns which must be
addressed, such as regulating gaming devices, monitoring employees,
as well as players, and maintaining player interest. These tasks,
in and of themselves, require substantial amounts of time, effort
and costs. The concept of offering prizes creates a new set of
concerns, such as those mentioned above, which casino personnel
want to avoid in attempting to minimize cost while maximizing
player interest, enjoyment, entertainment and excitement.
[0016] Accordingly, there is a need for an improved method of
offering and distributing prizes to players of gaming devices.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0017] The present invention provides a gaming device which
provides a player with entry into a tournament to be held at later
time. The player qualifies for the tournament or receives the entry
when the player obtains a predetermined qualifying game outcome on
the gaming device. The tournament is held on a regular basis, such
as every three months. Entries to a tournament are provided to
players during a set period of time prior to the tournament. In the
tournament, the player can win large value prizes such as cars,
motorcycles, and small valued prizes such as jackets and other
merchandise. The present invention therefore enables casinos to
give prizes to players during regular events. This concentrates the
cost and efforts of the casinos toward giving award prizes on
specific days and eliminates complications associated with prize
acquisition, distribution and record keeping on a daily basis.
[0018] More specifically, in one embodiment, the present invention
provides a slot gaming device having a set of reels and a plurality
of symbols on the reels. At least one of the symbols or a
combination of symbols is a tournament qualification symbol or a
tournament qualifying combination, respectively. A player spins the
reels in a conventional manner. If, when the reels stop spinning,
the qualification symbol or combination is displayed, and this, the
player obtains a tournament qualifying outcome on an active
payline, the player receives a tournament entry.
[0019] The gaming device may alternatively provide any other
primary game such as a video poker game, a video blackjack game, a
keno game or any other suitable game. The qualifying outcome may
comprise any winning outcome including, but not limited to, the
displaying of a qualification symbol or qualifying combination of
symbols where appropriate. It should also be appreciated that the
tournament entries could be provided to the players in any suitable
primary or secondary (i.e., bonus) games.
[0020] In one embodiment, when the player operates the gaming
device and qualifies for the tournament, the player is presented
with a voucher verifying entry into the tournament. In one
embodiment, this is performed manually b an attendant in a manner
similar to a harid pay. When the player qualifies for the
tournament, the gaming device provides notification to attendants
which monitor the gaming area. The notification is in the form of a
flashing light on top of the gaming device in a conventional
manner. An attendant arrives at the gaming device. After the
attendant verifies the qualifying outcome which qualifies for a
tournament entry, the attendant records the player's information on
a voucher. One copy of the voucher is presented to the player and
one copy is retained by the casino for its records.
[0021] In one embodiment, the attendant verifies the win and enters
the player's information in a suitable computer. The computer
records the player information and directs a printer to print a
voucher which is eventually given to the player. In an alternative
embodiment, when the player qualifies for the tournament, the
processor within the gaming device or a processor located remote
from the gaming device sends a signal to the computer which in turn
cause the printer to print a voucher. The player brings the voucher
to the tournament to verify entry into the tournament.
[0022] The tournament can be any type of gaming tournament or other
competition. In one embodiment, the tournament is a slot machine
tournament. The player competes against other players who have
qualified for the tournament. The tournaments are held periodically
with set prizes for each tournament. While the prizes may be
monetary awards, preferably the prizes are high value prizes such
as cars or motorcycles. The awards may also include lesser valued
prizes such as hats, T-shirts, jackets, key-chains, memorabilia and
other merchandise. The prizes are awarded at the time of the
tournament. This provides numerous advantages to the casino with
respect to prize acquisition, distribution and record keeping
because all of the prizes are given away in one day or other time
period and in one event.
[0023] For example, by giving away all of the prizes at one event,
the casino is certain of the time period that the prizes must be
kept in storage. The casino can save on the costs of storage by
having the prizes placed in storage within proximity of the date of
the tournament or the prizes could be delivered to the casino on
the same day as the tournament. Further, the casino saves on the
costs of delivering the prizes from the storage site to the casino,
because the prizes need only be delivered in one sequence. The
casino also saves on the cost of delivering the prizes to the
players because most prizes are awarded in the person at the time
of the tournament which is expected by the player. The tournament
forum also enables more convenient record keeping of prizes that
are given away by the casino because every contestant's information
is obtained prior to, or at the time, of the tournament. The casino
also saves on the cost of advertising for the tournament, because
players are made aware that the prizes on display are solely for
advertising and not to be won at the time of gaming device
operation. Thus, the casino needs to display on a minimal amount of
prizes in the gaming area, if any at all.
[0024] It is therefore an advantage of the present invention to
provide a gaming device which provides a player with entry into a
tournament.
[0025] It is a further advantage of the present invention to
provide a gaming device and associated tournament which provide
convenience in prize offering, distribution and record keeping.
[0026] Other objects, features and advantages of the invention will
be apparent from the following detailed disclosure, taken in
conjunction with the accompanying sheets of drawings, wherein like
numerals refer to like parts, elements, components, steps and
processes.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0027] FIGS. 1A and 1B are perspective views of alternative
embodiments of the gaming device of the present invention.
[0028] FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram of the electronic
configuration of one embodiment of the gaming device of the present
invention.
[0029] FIG. 3 is a flow diagram of one method of one embodiment of
the present invention;
[0030] FIG. 4 is a front elevation view of a display device
displaying a set of reels including a set of qualification symbols
on a payline.
[0031] FIG. 5 is a front elevation view of a display device
displaying a set of reels including a set of qualification symbols
in scattered arrangement.
[0032] FIG. 6 is a front elevation view of a display device
displaying a set of cards providing a qualifying outcome.
[0033] FIG. 7 is a front elevation view of a display device
displaying a set of cards including a qualification symbol in which
the cards provide a winning combination.
[0034] FIG. 8 is a front elevation view of a display device
displaying a set of cards including a qualification symbol.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Gaming Device and Electronics
[0035] Referring now to the drawings, and in particular to FIGS. 1A
and 1B, gaming device 10a and gaming device 10b illustrate two
possible cabinet styles and display arrangements and are
collectively referred to herein as gaming device 10. The present
invention includes the game, described below, being a stand alone
game or a bonus or secondary game that coordinates with a base
game. When the game of the present invention is a bonus game,
gaming device 10 in one base game can be a slot machine having the
controls, displays and features of a conventional slot machine, or
a video card game such as poker, blackjack, etc. The player can
operate the gaming device while standing or sitting. Gaming device
10 also includes being a pub-style or table-top game (not shown),
which a player operates while sitting.
[0036] The base games of the gaming device 10 include slot, poker,
or blackjack, among others. The gaming device 10 also embodies any
bonus triggering events, bonus games as well as any progressive
game coordinating with these base games. The symbols and indicia
used for any of the base, bonus and progressive games include
mechanical, electrical or video symbols and indicia.
[0037] In a stand alone or a bonus embodiment, the gaming device 10
includes monetary input devices. FIGS. 1A and 1B illustrate a coin
slot 12 for coins or tokens and/or a payment acceptor 14 for cash
money. The payment acceptor 14 also includes other devices for
accepting payment, such as readers or validators for credit cards,
debit cards or smart cards, tickets, notes, etc. 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.
[0038] 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. At any time
during the game, a player may "cash out" by pushing a cash out
button 26 to receive coins or tokens in the coin payout tray 28 or
other forms of payment, such as an amount printed on a ticket or
credited to a credit card, debit card or smart card.
[0039] 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.
The display devices display any visual representation or
exhibition, including but not limited to movement of physical
objects such as mechanical reels and wheels, dynamic lighting and
video images. The display device includes any viewing surface such
as glass, a video monitor or screen, a liquid crystal display or
any other static or dynamic display mechanism. In a video poker,
blackjack or other card gaming machine embodiment, the display
device includes displaying one or more cards.
[0040] The slot machine base game of gaming device 10 preferably
displays a plurality of reels 34, preferably three to five reels
34, in mechanical or video form on one or more of the display
devices. 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. If the reels 34 are in video form, the display device
displaying the video reels 34 is preferably a video monitor. Each
base game, especially in the slot machine base game of the gaming
device 10, includes speakers 36 for making sounds or playing
music.
[0041] Referring now to FIG. 2, a general electronic configuration
of the gaming device 10 for the stand alone and bonus embodiments
described above 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 includes random access memory (RAM) 46
for storing event data or other data generated or used during a
particular game. The memory device 40 also includes 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.
[0042] As illustrated in FIG. 2, the player preferably uses the
input devices 44 to input signals into gaming device 10. In the
slot machine base game, the input devices 44 include the pull arm
18, play button 20, the bet one button 24 and the cash out button
26. A touch screen 50 and touch screen controller 52 are connected
to a video controller 54 and processor 38. The terms "computer" or
"controller" are used herein to refer collectively to the processor
38, the memory device 40, the sound card 42, the touch screen
controller and the video controller 54.
[0043] 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. The touch screen enables
a player to input decisions into the gaming device 10 by sending a
discrete signal based on the area of the touch screen 50 that the
player touches or presses. As further seen in FIG. 2, the processor
38 connects to the coin slot 12 or payment acceptor 14, whereby the
processor 38 requires a player to deposit a certain amount of money
in to start the game.
[0044] It should be appreciated that although a processor 38 and
memory device 40 are preferable implementations of the present
invention, the present invention also includes being implemented
via one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASIC's),
one or more hard-wired devices, or one or more mechanical devices
(collectively referred to herein as a "processor"). Furthermore,
although the processor 38 and memory device 40 preferably reside in
each gaming device 10 unit, the present invention includes
providing 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.
[0045] With reference to the slot machine base game of FIGS. 1A and
1B, to operate the gaming device 10, the player inserts the
appropriate amount of tokens or money in the coin slot 12 or the
payment acceptor 14 and then pulls the arm 18 or pushes the play
button 20. The reels 34 then begin to spin. Eventually, the reels
34 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.
[0046] In addition to winning base game credits, the gaming device
10, including any of the base games disclosed above, may include a
bonus game that gives players the opportunity to win credits or a
tournament entry as described below. The bonus game includes a
program that automatically begins when the player achieves a
triggering event in the base game.
[0047] In the slot machine embodiment, the triggering event
includes a particular symbol or symbol combination generated on a
display device. As illustrated in the five reel slot game shown in
FIGS. 1A and 1B, the triggering event includes the number seven
appearing on three adjacent reels 34 along a payline 56. It should
be appreciated that the present invention includes one or more
paylines, such as payline 56, wherein the paylines can be
horizontal, diagonal or any combination thereof.
[0048] In another embodiment, the triggering event includes a
particular card combination in a video poker game.
Qualification for a Tournament through Gaming Device Operation
[0049] FIG. 3 provides an overview of the method or process 100 by
which a player qualifies for the tournament through operation of
the gaming device of the present invention. The player makes a
wager within the gaming device as indicated by block 102. The game
within the gaming device, whether slot, video poker, video
blackjack, video keno, or other game is then played as indicated by
block 104. The processor determines if the player achieves a
qualifying outcome during this sequence as indicated by diamond
106. If the player achieves a qualifying outcome, the player
receives a voucher or tournament entry as indicated by block 108 as
proof of entry into the tournament. The player may then participate
in the tournament which is held at a later time as indicated by
block 110. The player may restart the process at any time. However,
depending on the implementor, a player may not be allowed to obtain
multiple entries to a tournament. Thus, if the player wins another
entry after restarting the process, the game may provide a cash
value equivalent or provide the player an entry in a subsequent
tournament. The player then has the option of participating in a
subsequent tournament.
[0050] In an alternative embodiment, a player must achieve a
qualifying outcome a plurality of times in order to qualify for the
tournament. For example, the casino may require that a player
achieve a qualifying outcome twice to qualify for the tournament.
After the first qualifying outcome is obtained, the gaming device
acknowledges, whether visually or audibly, that the player has
achieved a first qualifying outcome. A partial voucher may
alternatively be provided to the player. Further, alternatively a
processor, whether located within the gaming device or remote from
the gaming device may keep track of the game's qualifying outcomes.
If the player achieves a second qualifying outcome (i.e., such as
before a cash out), the gaming device notifies the player that the
player has qualified for the tournament. In one embodiment, the
qualifying information is recorded on the computer which runs the
player tracking system. Thus, the player may play on a first
occasion and achieve a first qualifying outcome which is recorded
with the player information in a conventional manner. The player
may then operate the gaming device on a second occasion, (i.e.,
with the player information card inserted within the gaming
device). If the player achieves a second qualifying outcome, the
processor within the gaming device and/or the processor located
remote from the gaming device acknowledge this, and the gaming
device notifies the player that the player has qualified for the
tournament. This information is then recorded with the player
information and the player may redeem a tournament entry or
voucher. Alternatively, the game goes into a hand-pay condition or
state and an attendant provides the player a tournament entry or
invitation.
[0051] The game within the gaming device may be a primary or
secondary game such as slot, video poker, video blackjack or other
suitable game. The game includes at least one qualifying outcome
and at least one non-qualifying outcome. For example, a slot game
may provide two winning combinations. A first winning combination,
such as 3 "BAR" symbols along a payline, may provide the player
with an award but may not qualify the player for entry into the
tournament. A second winning combination, determined by the
implementor, may provide the player with an entry into the
tournament.
[0052] In one embodiment, the game within the gaming device is a
slot machine game. The gaming device includes a set of mechanical
or video reels 34a, 34b and 34c having a set of symbols 68. The
symbols may be of any type suitable for gaming devices. At least
one of the symbols is a tournament qualification symbol 70, or, at
least one of the combinations of symbols is a tournament qualifying
combination, the obtaining either the symbol or the combination
qualifying the player for the tournament. In one embodiment, the
qualification symbol is distinguished from the rest of the symbols
68. A player makes a wager and uses the control features of the
gaming device to spin the reels. The display device displays three
qualification symbols along a payline 56, as illustrated in FIG. 4.
This is a qualifying outcome and the player qualifies for the
tournament. In another example, the qualifying outcome is a
qualification symbol on each of the reels in a scattered
arrangement, as shown in FIG. 5. In an alternative embodiment, the
qualification symbol is not distinguished from the other symbols.
The processor chooses a particular symbol or symbol combination,
such as three "7" symbols along a payline, which must be displayed
within the display device in order for the player to qualify for
the tournament.
[0053] In one embodiment, the game within the gaming device is a
video poker game. The video poker game may be any variation
including draw, stud, multiple play or other type. The processor of
gaming device has within its stored memory a set of cards. A player
makes a wager and uses the control features of the gaming device to
have a set of virtual cards dealt by the gaming device. If one of
the cards, 72a through 72e, within the display device provide a
predetermined qualifying outcome, the player qualifies for the
tournament. An example is provided in FIG. 6, where the player
achieves a royal flush which is a predetermined qualifying outcome
that qualifies the player for the tournament. In an alternative
embodiment, at least one of the cards is capable of displaying a
qualification symbol 70. The processor randomly chooses to display
the qualification symbol on the card. The player qualifies for the
tournament by achieving a predetermined winning combination when
the qualification symbol 70 is randomly displayed on one of the
cards 73a through 73e. An example is provided in FIG. 7, it is
appreciated that in the case of any draw-type poker games, the
qualification symbol may be randomly displayed on a card that was
drawn after the initial hand of cards was dealt.
[0054] In one embodiment, the game played within the gaming device
is a video blackjack game. The processor has within its stored
memory a set of cards, a plurality of which are displayed within
the display device. At least one of the cards is capable of
displaying a qualification symbol. The processor randomly chooses
to display the qualification symbol on the card. A player makes a
wager and uses the control features of the gaming device to have at
least two cards 74a and 74b dealt and displayed within the display
device. If one of the cards displayed includes a qualification
symbol 70, as shown in FIG. 8, and the player achieves a winning
combination, the player qualifies for the tournament. The
qualification symbol may also be randomly displayed on cards drawn
in addition to the initial hand.
[0055] It should be appreciated that the present invention is not
limited to the games described above, and may include any primary
or secondary games capable of providing entries into a tournament.
The qualifying outcomes for any of the primary or secondary games
are not limited to the examples provided herein and may comprise
any predetermined outcomes chosen by the implementor. Moreover, the
number of qualifying outcomes or non-qualifying outcomes is not
limited to the examples provided herein and may be any number of
outcomes stored within the memory device and provided by the
processor of the gaming device with at least one outcome being a
qualifying outcome and at least one outcome being a non-qualifying
outcome.
[0056] It should thus be appreciated that in accordance with the
present invention the qualifying outcome or condition can be
obtained in any suitable primary game or bonus game. It should also
be appreciated that the qualifying outcome or condition could be
associated for example with one or more of a plurality of player
selectable selections in a player selection type game or one or
more offers in a player offer acceptance type game. The qualifying
outcome or condition could be obtained by obtaining a combination
of two or more outcomes in a primary game or bonus game.
[0057] In one embodiment, when the player qualifies for the
tournament, the player is presented with a voucher verifying entry
into the tournament. The voucher may be paper, plastic, or other
material capable of receiving printing or writing. The voucher may
contain general information, such as place, date and time of the
tournament, and/or may also contain individual player information,
such as name, address, contact information and a personalized
confirmation number for the tournament. In one embodiment, the
voucher is presented by casino personnel in a manner similar to
hand pays. When a player achieves a qualifying outcome, the
processor sends a signal by illuminating a light positioned on top
of the gaming device. Attendants who survey the floor for service
of the gaming devices and player will notice the light, arrive at
the gaming device and verify the qualifying outcome. The attendant
may keep a set of vouchers which have two layers for printing and
copying of information. After writing player and tournament
information on the voucher, the layers are separated, with one
layer presented to the player and one layer retained by the casino
for recordkeeping.
[0058] In one embodiment, the attendant obtains the player's
information and inputs the information into a central computer
located remote from the gaming device. This information is stored
by the central computer for the casino's records. The computer is
connected to and in communication with a printer. The computer
sends a signal to the printer containing the player's information.
The printer prints a voucher containing the information and the
voucher is presented to the player.
[0059] In an alternative embodiment, the voucher is presented by
the gaming device through a printing device. The printing device
may be of any suitable type and may be positioned within or
adjacent to the cabinet of the gaming device. The printing device
is connected to and is in communication with the processor of the
gaming device. However, the printer may instead be in communication
with a processor and/or the central computer located remote from
the gaming device. When the player qualifies for the tournament, a
signal is sent, by either processor, to the printer. The printer
then prints a voucher. This may also be coordinated with the ticket
printing systems of the gaming device such as the EZPay.TM. ticket
printing system of the assignee and this application. The
information printed on the voucher may also be stored within the
processor of the gaming device or the central computer located
remote from the gaming device. In one embodiment, the player brings
the voucher to casino personnel for authentication after printing
is completed. The casino personnel signs the voucher to provide
authentication. When the player participates in the tournament, the
player presents the voucher to casino personnel. The casino
personnel may verify the information on the voucher with tournament
information that is stored in the casino's processor.
[0060] In an alternative embodiment, during the time at which the
player receives a voucher, the player may be able to choose from a
plurality of tournament sin which to participate. A list of
upcoming tournaments may be provided to the player with the player
choosing to participate in the tournament which occurs at a date
most convenient for the player to attend. The date selected is
recorded by the casino, which predetermines the number of entries
per tournament, and the player's entry is reserved for the specific
date.
[0061] The tournament may be any tournament, such as a slot machine
tournament in which the player can obtain one or more prizes. The
rules of the tournament may be such that contestants must deposit
money or tokens form their own expense. A plurality of gaming
devices are provided. Each gaming device is capable of awarding the
top prize in the tournament. Each contestant plays an individual
gaming device. All of the contestants begin playing the gaming
devices at the same time. The first player to achieve the winning
combination corresponding to the grand prize receives the prize.
The tournament may include additional prizes, whether large or
smaller in value. For instance, the prizes are preferably cars,
motorcycles, boats or similar items of high value. Smaller prizes,
of which a greater number are awarded, may include items such as
hats, T-shirts, key-chains, jackets, memorabilia and other
merchandise. Smaller prizes may be awarded for lesser valued
winning combinations, or merely for participating in the
tournament. In addition, while larger prizes may be collect ed at
the end of the tournament, small prizes may be distributed during
the course of the tournament to players for winning combinations or
participation.
[0062] In another example, each contestant plays on one or more
gaming devices, at no expense to the player, for a predetermined
period of time. The contestant accumulating the greatest amount of
credits in the time period, receives the grand prize. In this
tournament, the contestants do not necessarily start or stop
playing at the same time. In an alternative embodiment, the
contestant who received the highest payout for an outcome during
the predetermined time period wins the grand prize.
[0063] In one embodiment, the tournament is in the form of a raffle
in which one or more prizes are given away. The casino has a record
of all confirmation numbers assigned to vouchers for the
tournament. Each contestant has a confirmation number written or
printed on their voucher. A random confirmation number is drawn by
casino personnel. The contestant in possession of the voucher
having the drawn confirmation number wins the grand prize. Other
confirmation numbers may be drawn for lower-valued prizes. In
another example, the contestants may receive separate raffle
tickets when they arrive at the tournament.
[0064] In one embodiment, the tournament is a video poker
tournament in which the player can receive one or more awards. The
video poker tournament rules may be similar to those for the slot
machine tournament. More specifically, there may be a specific
winning hand that must be displayed to win a grand prize. All
contestants begin play at the same time with each contestant
operating one gaming device. The contestant achieving the specific
winning combination first wins the grand prize. In another example,
all contestants play for a predetermined amount of time with the
contestant accumulating the most credits in that time receiving the
grand prize. In another example, the contestant achieving the
single highest payout in a predetermined amount of time wins the
grand prize. In addition, lower-valued prizes may be awarded for
other winning combinations.
[0065] It is appreciated that the tournament may be any type of
competition including but not limited to the types mentioned above
and any type of lottery. It is further appreciated that the
tournament can have any number of contestants and can award any
number of prizes. It is also appreciated that the tournament can be
held once, a plurality of times, or periodically.
[0066] The tournament provides a number of advantages for casinos
in terms of offering and distributing prizes to players. Smaller
prizes which may be difficult to keep track of may be distributed
on one occasion, namely, the tournament, rather than at individual
times. This eases the tasks of delivering the prizes to the players
as well as keeping an inventory of the prizes distributed. Record
keeping is also made easier because player information is recorded
either prior to the tournament or during the tournament instead of
at erratic intervals. In addition, the casino does not need to
store the prizes for a long period of time, since the time of
distribution is known. This saves both time and money associated
with choosing a storage facility, determining the period of time
the prizes need to be stored, and revisiting the storage facility
to bring the prizes to the casino or players. Casinos also save on
the cost of security for the prizes because the prizes do not have
to be held by the casino for a long period of time. In addition,
delivery costs are reduced because the players will be receiving
those prizes at the time of the tournament.
[0067] For larger prizes, the present invention provides advantages
in addition to those listed above. Items such as cars or
motorcycles may be distributed at one time. The specific time could
be detailed within the display to make players aware when the prize
may be collect ed. Larger prizes within displays would not need to
be replaced because those prizes would be displayed solely for
advertising to players the potential win in the tournament. Thus,
the casino saves the trouble of removing the prize, delivering the
prize to the player, having a new prize delivered to the casino,
and repositioning the new prize within the display.
Current Methods of Setting Payout Percentages
[0068] Certain gaming devices provide monetary awards. The payment
or payback percentages in most commercially available gaming
devices in the United States range from 84% to 99%. The gaming
devices on average pay out to the players according to the
percentage. For example, if the payout percentage is set at 90%,
for every $1000 wagered, the gaming device pays out on average $900
to the players. Of course, because the paybacks are randomly
determined the actual paybacks to players may be the payback
percentage or higher or lower than the payback percentage.
[0069] If a gaming device offers a physical prize (which for the
purpose of this application includes a service or other
accommodation such as a trip or massage) in addition to monetary
awards, the value of the physical prize must be factored into the
overall payout percentage. For example, a gaming device may have a
payout percentage of 90%. The gaming device may offer a T-shirt for
a plurality of outcomes. If the T-shirt has a value of $10, this
value must be factored into the payout percentage. For instance,
the 90% payback can be divided into an 85% monetary payback and a
5% payback in T-shirts. Of course, these percentages may vary, the
values of the awards can vary and the number of prizes can vary. In
this example, if the players wager $1000, on average the players
will receive $850 in the form of monetary awards and achieve, on
average, $50 in the form of five $10 T-shirts.
Method of Setting a Payout Percentage in the Present Invention
[0070] Similarly, the payout percentages of the gaming devices
employing the present invention must take into account prizes
awarded to the players in the tournament. In particular, it should
be appreciated that in one embodiment of the present invention,
awards in the tournament are guaranteed to be paid to the players
of the tournament. Therefore, the values of those awards are
factored into the paytables of the gaming device which can provide
entries into the tournaments.
[0071] For example, in a tournament, a set of prizes may be awarded
as shown in Table 1:
1 TABLE 1 Number of Awards Value of Awards Total Cost Grand Prize 1
$20,000 $20,000 Second Prize 10 $5,000 $50,000 Third Prize 200 $100
$20,000
[0072] Accordingly, in this example, the total cost of all the
prizes guaranteed to be awarded in the tournament is $90,000. This
total is factored into the payout or payback percentage of the
gaming devices which provides entries into the tournament. Table 2
provides an example for calculating the payout percentages for the
gaming devices which provide entries to the tournament:
2TABLE 2 Number of Gaming Devices (Fixed) 200 Number of Days
Between Tournaments (Fixed) 90 Average Number of Games Played Per
Gaming 2500 Device Per Day (Estimated based on Statistical Data)
Average Bet in Dollars Per Game Played $2.00 (Estimated based on
Statistical Data) Average Revenue in Dollars Per Gaming Device
$5000 Per Day (Estimated based on Statistical Data) Average Number
of Games Played in the Number 45,000,000 of Days Between
Tournaments (Estimated based on Statistical Data) Average Total
Amount Wagered Between 90,000,000 Tournaments (Estimated based on
Statistical Data)
[0073] In this example, if the average gaming device has 2500 games
played per day, and the average wager per game is $2.00, then the
average revenue amount wagered per day is $5,000. If there are 200
gaming devices that provide entries into the tournament, then the
total amount wagered per day on average is $1,000,000. If, as
illustrated in the above table, there are 90 days between
tournaments, the total amount wagered between tournaments is
$90,000,000. As mentioned above, the cost of the tournament is
$90,000. This is 0.1% of the total amount wagered in this example.
Accordingly, 0.1% is reserved within the payout percentage of each
gaming device to account for the value of the awards guaranteed to
be provided in the tournament. In this example, the payback
percentage is 90% and if players wager $1000 on one of the gaming
devices, the players, on average, will receive $899 in monetary
awards, and $1 of return value through the tournament.
[0074] In this embodiment, when the player achieves a qualifying
outcome, the player is presented with a voucher and does not
receive a monetary award. In an alternative embodiment, the player
also receives a monetary award for achieving the tournament
qualifying outcome. The value of the tournament qualifying outcome
will be factored into the payout percentage of the gaming device.
For example, the gaming device could provide a monetary award with
the voucher and the pay table would have to be accordingly
adjusted. For instance, the gaming device could provide 89.8% in
monetary value and 0.2% in combined tournament entries and monetary
values.
[0075] The monetary award associated with the tournament could also
be accounted for in the cost of the tournament. For example, if on
average there will be 1,000 entries into the tournament, and each
entry is provided with $90 travel expense to the tournament, the
overall cost of the tournament is $180,000, or the cost of the
prizes awarded at the tournament ($90,000) plus the total cost of
the travel expense or payouts for qualifying ($90,000).
Accordingly, in the above example, $180,000 is then 0.2% of the
total amount wagered on the gaming machines on average between
tournaments. Therefore, 0.2% of the payout percentage is reserved
in the gaming devices. For example, if players wager $1000,
players, on average, receive $898 in monetary values and $2 of
return value through the tournament and the accompanied expense
award.
[0076] In an alternative embodiment, the tournament is directly
funded by wagers made in the gaming devices similar to a
progressive award. If, in one example, 1000 gaming devices
potentially provide entries into the tournament, and the average
contribution per gaming device to the tournament is $100, then the
prizes awarded at the tournament may be a first prize value of
$50,000, a second prize value of $30,000 and a third place prize
value of $20,000. These prizes total $100,000 collected from the
gaming devices. Of course, the payback percentage of the gaming
devices would need to be adjusted to account for the total value of
the prizes.
[0077] 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.
* * * * *