U.S. patent application number 11/049899 was filed with the patent office on 2005-06-30 for progressive wagering system.
Invention is credited to Torango, Lawrence J..
Application Number | 20050143168 11/049899 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 30116311 |
Filed Date | 2005-06-30 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050143168 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Torango, Lawrence J. |
June 30, 2005 |
Progressive wagering system
Abstract
A linked progressive gaming system and method of operation is
disclosed that is capable of accepting wagers in different
currencies and different denominations of the same currency and
allowing players in diverse locations to play for common
progressive prizes. The system periodically computes each current
prize value using the data acquired from each gaming device, and
displays the values at each location where participating gaming
devices are located, in the currency used at each particular
location. Multiple prizes may be supported simultaneously. Each
gaming device may be linked to one or more prizes. Progressive
prize award events may be triggered by random events associated
with play based on wagers made on gaming devices or by the central
system based on prize criteria exceeding a boundary limit. A Free
Play apparatus is disclosed that allows non-progressive gaming
devices, as well as other traditional games, to participate in
progressive play.
Inventors: |
Torango, Lawrence J.; (Reno,
NV) |
Correspondence
Address: |
JAMES C. WRAY
1493 CHAIN BRIDGE ROAD
SUITE 300
MCLEAN
VA
22101
US
|
Family ID: |
30116311 |
Appl. No.: |
11/049899 |
Filed: |
February 4, 2005 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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11049899 |
Feb 4, 2005 |
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10618207 |
Jul 11, 2003 |
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10618207 |
Jul 11, 2003 |
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09875467 |
Jun 5, 2001 |
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6592460 |
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09875467 |
Jun 5, 2001 |
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09698941 |
Oct 27, 2000 |
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6435968 |
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09875467 |
Jun 5, 2001 |
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09005341 |
Jan 9, 1998 |
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6241608 |
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60035513 |
Jan 15, 1997 |
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60040982 |
Mar 17, 1997 |
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60050911 |
Jun 13, 1997 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
463/25 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G07F 17/3258 20130101;
G07F 17/32 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
463/025 |
International
Class: |
G06F 017/00; G06F
019/00 |
Claims
1-16. (canceled)
17. A method of creating linkage on a wagering system, the system
comprising a host computer directly or indirectly in communication
with at least one gaming device, between a prize and at least one
gaming device comprising the following steps: A) determining a host
computer total wager amount for a prize; B) recording the host
computer total wager amount in the host computer; C) recording a
gaming device total wager amount on the gaming device; and D)
linking the prize to the gaming device when the host computer total
wager amount is substantially equal to the gaming device total
wager amount.
18. The method of claim 17, wherein the prize is a progressive
prize.
19. A method of operating a wagering system, the system comprising
a host computer directly or indirectly in communication with at
least one gaming device, comprising the following steps: A)
determining a host computer total wager amount for a prize; B)
recording the host computer total wager amount in the host
computer; C) recording a gaming device total wager amount on the
gaming device; D) linking the prize to the gaming device when the
host computer total wager amount is substantially equal to the
gaming device total wager amount; and E) allowing a player to place
a wager on the gaming device that competes for the prize when the
host computer total wager amount is substantially equal to the
gaming device total wager amount.
20. The method of claim 19, wherein the prize is a progressive
prize.
21. A method of operating a progressive wagering system, the system
comprising a host computer and at least one gaming environment
manager, the method comprising the following steps: (A) the host
computer establishing a win number for a progressive prize; (B) the
host computer transmitting the win number to the gaming environment
manager; and (C) the gaming environment manager qualifying all
messages relating to acquisition data and prize related event
conditions with the win number.
22. The method of claim 21, further comprising a step of the host
computer accumulating wagers for the progressive prize by win
number.
23. The method of claim 21, further comprising a step of the host
computer processing all events for the progressive prize by win
number.
24. A method of operating a wagering system capable of accepting
wagers in at least one of a plurality of currencies and a plurality
of denominations of the same currency comprising the steps of: (A)
determining a total wager amount for a prize; (B) allowing a player
to place a wager having an amount; and (C) determining odds of an
outcome of at least one prize award event using at least the total
wager amount and the wager amount.
25. The method of claim 24 wherein the prize is a progressive
prize.
26. The method of claims 24 or 25 wherein the odds of the prize
award event outcome vary depending on the value of the wager
amount.
27. The method of claims 24 or 25 wherein the odds of the prize
award event outcome vary depending on the value of the total wager
amount.
28. The method of claims 24 or 25 wherein the step of determining
the odds comprises dividing the total wager amount by the amount of
the wager.
29. The method of claims 24 or 25 wherein the step of determining
the odds comprises generating a number based on the total wager
amount, generating a number based on the amount of the wager, and
comparing the number based on the amount of the wager to the number
based on the total wager amount.
30. A method for determining a win/lose outcome for a prize award
event, the event being associated with a prize having a value,
comprising the steps of: (A) determining a total wager amount for
the prize; (B) allowing a player to place a wager having an amount;
and (C) determining the outcome using at least the total wager
amount and the wager amount.
31. The method of claim 30 wherein the prize is a progressive
prize.
32. The method of claims 30 or 31 wherein the step of determining
the outcome comprises dividing the total wager amount by the amount
of the wager to provide an odds number.
33. The method of claim 32 wherein the step of determining the
outcome further comprises determining a range of numbers based on
the odds number.
34. The method of claim 33 wherein the step of determining the
outcome further comprises generating a random number within the
odds range of numbers, comparing the random number to a pre-defined
winning number and generating a win outcome for the prize award
event if the random number is substantially equal to the
pre-defined number.
35. The method of claim 33 wherein the step of determining the
outcome further comprises generating a random number within the
odds range of numbers, comparing the random number to a pre-defined
winning number and generating a win outcome for the prize award
event if the random number is equal to the pre-defined number.
36. The method of claims 30 or 31 wherein the step of determining
the outcome comprises determining a range of numbers based on the
total wager amount.
37. The method of claim 36 wherein the step of determining the
outcome further comprises generating at least one random number
within the total wager amount number range based on the wager
amount, comparing the random number to a pre-defined winning number
and generating a win outcome for the prize award event if the
random number is substantially equal to the pre-defined number.
38. The method of claim 36 wherein the step of determining the
outcome further comprises generating at least one random number
within the total wager amount number range based on the wager
amount, comparing the random number to a pre-defined winning number
and generating a win outcome for the prize award event if the
random number is equal to the pre-defined number.
39. The method of claim 36 wherein the step of determining the
outcome further comprises generating at least one pre-defined
winning number based on the wager amount within the total wager
amount number range, generating a random number within the total
wager amount number range, comparing the random number within the
total wager amount number range to the pre-defined winning number
based on the wager amount and generating a win outcome for the
prize award event if the random number within the total wager
amount number range is substantially equal to the pre-defined
winning number based on the wager amount.
40. The method of claim 36 wherein the step of determining the
outcome further comprises generating at least one pre-defined
winning number based on the wager amount within the total wager
amount number range, generating a random number within the total
wager amount number range, comparing the random number within the
total wager amount number range to the pre-defined winning number
based on the wager amount and generating a win outcome for the
prize award event if the random number within the total wager
amount number range is equal to the pre-defined winning number
based on the wager amount.
41. The method of claims 30 or 31 wherein the wager is a
payment.
42. The method of claim 41 wherein the payment is at least an
amount paid for at least one item of merchandise.
43. A method for determining a win/lose outcome for a prize award
event associated with a prize in a wagering system, the system
being capable of accepting wagers in at least one of a plurality of
currencies and a plurality of denominations of the same currency,
comprising the steps of: (A) determining a total wager amount for
the prize; (B) allowing a player to place a wager having an amount;
and (C) determining the outcome using at least the total wager
amount and the wager amount.
44. The method of claim 43 wherein at least one prize is a
progressive prize.
45. The method of claims 43 or 44 wherein the step of determining
the outcome comprises dividing the total wager amount by the amount
of the wager to provide an odds number.
46. The method of claim 45 wherein the step of determining the
outcome further comprises determining a range of numbers based on
the odds number.
47. The method of claim 46 wherein the step of determining the
outcome further comprises generating a random number within the
odds range of numbers, comparing the random number to a pre-defined
winning number and generating a win outcome for the prize award
event if the random number is substantially equal to the
pre-defined number.
48. The method of claim 46 wherein the step of determining the
outcome further comprises generating a random number within the
odds range of numbers, comparing the random number to a pre-defined
winning number and generating a win outcome for the prize award
event if the random number is equal to the pre-defined number.
49. The method of claims 43 or 44 wherein the step of determining
the outcome comprises determining a range of numbers based on the
total wager amount.
50. The method of claim 49 wherein the step of determining the
outcome further comprises generating at least one random number
within the total wager amount number range based on the wager
amount, comparing the random number to a pre-defined winning number
and generating a win outcome for the prize award event if the
random number is substantially equal to the pre-defined number.
51. The method of claim 49 wherein the step of determining the
outcome further comprises generating at least one random number
within the total wager amount number range based on the wager
amount, comparing the random number to a pre-defined winning number
and generating a win outcome for the prize award event if the
random number is equal to the pre-defined number.
52. The method of claim 49 wherein the step of determining the
outcome further comprises generating at least one pre-defined
winning number based on the wager amount within the total wager
amount number range, generating a random number within the total
wager amount number range, comparing the random number within the
total wager amount number range to the pre-defined winning number
based on the wager amount and generating a win outcome for the
prize award event if the random number within the total wager
amount number range is substantially equal to the pre-defined
winning number based on the wager amount.
53. The method of claim 49 wherein the step of determining the
outcome further comprises generating at least one pre-defined
winning number based on the wager amount within the total wager
amount number range, generating a random number within the total
wager amount number range, comparing the random number within the
total wager amount number range to the pre-defined winning number
based on the wager amount and generating a win outcome for the
prize award event if the random number within the total wager
amount number range is equal to the pre-defined winning number
based on the wager amount.
54. The method of claims 43 or 44 wherein the wager is a
payment.
55. The method of claim 54 wherein the payment is at least an
amount paid for at least one item of merchandise.
56. A method of operating a wagering system, the system being
capable of accepting wagers in at least one of a plurality of
currencies and a plurality of denominations of the same currency,
comprising the following steps: (A) determining a total wager
amount for at least one prize; (B) allowing a player to place a
wager having an amount on a game; (C) linking the at least one
prize to a secondary device; (D) interfacing the secondary device
with the game; and (E) determining on the secondary device a
win/lose outcome for the at least one prize using at least the
total wager amount and the wager amount.
57. The method of claim 56 wherein the at least one prize is a
progressive prize.
58. The method of claims 56 or 57 wherein the step of determining
the outcome comprises dividing the total wager amount by the amount
of the wager to provide an odds number.
59. The method of claim 58 wherein the step of determining the
outcome further comprises determining a range of numbers based on
the odds number.
60. The method of claim 59 wherein the step of determining the
outcome further comprises generating a random number within the
odds range of numbers, comparing the random number to a pre-defined
winning number and generating a win outcome for the prize award
event if the random number is substantially equal to the
pre-defined number.
61. The method of claim 59 wherein the step of determining the
outcome further comprises generating a random number within the
odds range of numbers, comparing the random number to a pre-defined
winning number and generating a win outcome for the prize award
event if the random number is equal to the pre-defined number.
62. The method of claim 56 or 57 wherein the step of determining
the outcome comprises determining a range of numbers based on the
total wager amount.
63. The method of claim 62 wherein the step of determining the
outcome further comprises generating at least one random number
within the total wager amount number range based on the wager
amount, comparing the random number to a pre-defined winning number
and generating a win outcome for the prize award event it the
random number is substantially equal to the pre-defined number.
64. The method of claim 62 wherein the step of determining the
outcome further comprises generating at least one random number
within the total wager amount number range based on the wager
amount, comparing the random number to a pre-defined winning number
and generating a win outcome for the prize award event if the
random number is equal to the pre-defined number.
65. The method of claim 62 wherein the step of determining the
outcome further comprises generating at least one pre-defined
winning number based on the wager amount within the total wager
amount number range, generating a random number within the total
wager amount number range, comparing the random number within the
total wager amount number range to the pre-defined winning number
based on the wager amount and generating a win outcome for the
prize award event if the random number within the total wager
amount number range is substantially equal to the pre-defined
winning number based on the wager amount.
66. The method of claim 62 wherein the step of determining the
outcome further comprises generating at least one pre-defined
winning number based on the wager amount within the total wager
amount number range, generating a random number within the total
wager amount number range, comparing the random number within the
total wager amount number range to the pre-defined winning number
based on the wager amount and generating a win outcome for the
prize award event if the random number within the total wager
amount number range is equal to the pre-defined winning number
based on the wager amount.
67. The method of claim 56 wherein the secondary device is a free
play apparatus.
68. A method of operating a progressive wagering system, the system
comprising at least one device driver and a host computer, the
method comprising the following steps: (A) the host computer
establishing a win number for a progressive prize; (B) the host
computer transmitting the win number to the device driver; and (C)
the device driver qualifying all messages relating to acquisition
data and prize related event conditions with the win number.
69. The method of claim 68 further comprising a step of the host
computer accumulating wagers for the progressive prize by win
number.
70. The method of claim 68 further comprising a step of the host
computer processing all events for the progressive prize by win
number.
71. A method for creating linkage between a prize and at least one
apparatus comprising the steps of: (A) determining a total wager
amount for at least one prize; (B) linking the prize to at least
one apparatus adapted to determine a win/lose outcome for the prize
using at least the total wager amount and a wager amount.
72. The method of claim 71 wherein the apparatus is a gaming
device.
73. The method of claim 71 wherein the apparatus is a point-of-sale
device.
74. The method of claim 73 wherein the point-of-sale device is a
cash register.
75. The method of claim 71 wherein the apparatus is a table
game.
76. The method of claim 75 wherein the table game is black
jack.
77. The method of claim 71 wherein the prize is a progressive
prize.
78. The method of claim 71 wherein the wager amount is a
payment.
79. The method of claim 78 wherein the payment is at least an
amount paid for at least one item of merchandise.
80. A gaming device comprising: (A) a machine capable of accepting
a wager and awarding at least one prize wherein the machine is
arranged to award the prize when a prize award event is achieved;
and (B) an apparatus arranged to test for the prize award event and
to initiate an award of the prize when the prize award event
occurs, the prize award event being determined by an outcome having
a probability related to a total wager amount.
81. The device of claim 80 wherein the prize award event is
determined by the outcome having a probability related to both a
total wager amount and the wager on the game.
82. The device of claim 80 or 81 wherein the machine is arranged to
play a main game, approximately during which testing for the prize
award event will occur.
83. The device of claim 82 wherein the main game is a standard game
normally offered on the machine and the prize is at least one
progressive prize.
84. The device of claim 82 wherein the main game is a standard game
normally offered on the machine and the prize is at least one bonus
prize.
85. The device of claim 82 wherein the prize award event is
determined by selecting a random number from a range of numbers
determined from the total wager amount, allotting to the prize at
least one number selected from the range of numbers, the size of
the set of allotted numbers being related to the wager bet on the
main game, and in the event that one of the allotted numbers
matches the random number, initiating the award of the prize.
86. The device of claim 82 wherein the range of numbers is related
to the total wager amount divided by the wager.
87. The device of claim 86 wherein the range of numbers is equal to
the total wager amount expressed as a currency denomination.
88. The device of claim 87 wherein the currency denomination is
cents.
89. The device of claim 87 wherein the set of allotted numbers
includes one number for each unit of the currency denomination
wagered on the main game.
90. The device of claim 88 wherein the set of allotted numbers
includes one number for each cent wagered on the main game.
91. The device of claim 85 wherein the allotted numbers is a block
of numbers.
92. The device of claim 91 wherein the block of numbers contains
the lowest numbers in the range of numbers.
93. A method of awarding a prize on a device capable of accepting a
wager on at least one main game comprising the steps of: (A)
testing for a prize award event wherein the event has a probability
of occurring related to a prize's total wager amount; (B)
initiating an award of the prize when a prize award event
occurs.
94. The method of claim 93 wherein the testing comprises the steps
of: (A) selecting a random number from a range of numbers
determined from the total wager amount; (B) allotting to the prize
at least one number selected from the range of numbers, the size of
the set of allotted numbers being related to the wager bet on the
main game; and (C) initiating the award of the prize in the event
that one of the allotted numbers matches the random number.
95. The method of claim 94 wherein the range of numbers is related
to the total wager amount divided by the wager.
96. The method of claim 94 wherein the range of numbers determined
from the total wager amount is equal to a sum of all wagers
expressed as a currency denomination made over the theoretical
number of handle pulls between the prize award events.
97. The method of claim 96 wherein currency denomination is
cents.
98. The method of claim 96 wherein the range of numbers determined
from the total wager amount includes one number for each unit of
currency denomination wagered on the game.
99. The method of claim 97 wherein the range of numbers determined
from the total wager amount includes one number for each unit of
currency denomination wagered on the game.
100. The method of claim 94 wherein the at least one allotted
number is a block of numbers selected from the range of
numbers.
101. The method of claim 100 wherein the block of numbers contains
the lowest numbers in the range of numbers.
102. The method of claim 93 wherein the prize award event has a
probability of occurring related to both the total wager amount and
the wager.
103. The method of claim 102 wherein the testing comprises the
steps of: (A) selecting a random number from a range of numbers
determined from the total wager amount; (B) allotting to the prize
at least one number selected from the range of numbers, the size of
the set of allotted numbers being related to the wager bet on the
main game; and (C) initiating the award of the prize in the event
that one of the allotted numbers matches the random number.
104. The method of claim 103 wherein the range of numbers is
related to the total wager amount divided by the wager.
105. The method of claim 103 wherein the range of numbers
determined from the total wager amount is equal to a sum of all
wagers expressed as a currency denomination made over the
theoretical number of handle pulls between the prize award
events.
106. The method of claim 105 wherein currency denomination is
cents.
107. The method of claim 105 wherein the range of numbers
determined from the total wager amount includes one number for each
unit of currency denomination wagered on the game.
108. The method of claim 106 wherein the range of numbers
determined from the total wager amount includes one number for each
unit of currency denomination wagered on the game.
109. The method of claim 103 wherein the at least one allotted
number is a block of numbers selected from the range of
numbers.
110. The method of claim 109 wherein the block of numbers contains
the lowest numbers in the range of numbers.
111. The method of claim 102 further comprising the step of playing
the main game at substantially the same time as the testing.
112. The method of claim 111 wherein the testing comprises the
steps of: (A) selecting a random number from a range of numbers
determined from the total wager amount; (B) allotting to the prize
at least one number selected from the range of numbers, the size of
the set of allotted numbers being related to the wager bet on the
main game; and (C) initiating the award of the prize in the event
that one of the allotted numbers matches the random number.
113. The method of claim 112 wherein the range of numbers is
related to the total wager amount divided by the wager.
114. The method of claim 112 wherein the range of numbers
determined from the total wager amount is equal to a sum of all
wagers expressed as a currency denomination made over the
theoretical number of handle pulls between the prize award
events.
115. The method of claim 114 wherein currency denomination is
cents.
116. The method of claim 114 wherein the range of numbers
determined from the total wager amount includes one number for each
unit of currency denomination wagered on the game.
117. The method of claim 115 wherein the range of numbers
determined from the total wager amount includes one number for each
unit of currency denomination wagered on the game.
118. The method of claim 112 wherein the at least one allotted
number is a block of numbers selected from the range of
numbers.
119. The method of claim 118 wherein the block of numbers contains
the lowest numbers in the range of numbers.
120. The method of claim 111 wherein the prize is at least one
bonus prize of a group of additional bonus prizes.
121. The method of claim 120 wherein the testing comprises the
steps of: (A) selecting a random number from a range of numbers
determined from the total wager amount; (B) allotting to the prize
at least one number selected from the range of numbers, the size of
the set of allotted numbers being related to the wager bet on the
main game; and (C) initiating the award of the prize in the event
that one of the allotted numbers matches the random number.
122. The method of claim 121 wherein the range of numbers is
related to the total wager amount divided by the wager.
123. The method of claim 121 wherein the range of numbers
determined from the total wager amount is equal to a sum of all
wagers expressed as a currency denomination made over the
theoretical number of handle pulls between the prize award
events.
124. The method of claim 123 wherein currency denomination is
cents.
125. The method of claim 123 wherein the range of numbers
determined from the total wager amount includes one number for each
unit of currency denomination wagered on the game.
126. The method of claim 124 wherein the range of numbers
determined from the total wager amount includes one number for each
unit of currency denomination wagered on the game.
127. The method of claim 121 wherein the at least one allotted
number is a block of numbers selected from the range of
numbers.
128. The method of claim 127 wherein the block of numbers contains
the lowest numbers in the range of numbers.
129. The method of claim 111 wherein the prize is at least one
progressive prize.
130. The method of claim 129 wherein the testing comprises the
steps of: (A) selecting a random number from a range of numbers
determined from the total wager amount; (B) allotting to the prize
at least one number selected from the range of numbers, the size of
the set of allotted numbers being related to the wager bet on the
main game; and (C) initiating the award of the prize in the event
that one of the allotted numbers matches the random number.
131. The method of claim 130 wherein the range of numbers is
related to the total wager amount divided by the wager.
132. The method of claim 130 wherein the range of numbers
determined from the total wager amount is equal to a sum of all
wagers expressed as a currency denomination made over the
theoretical number of handle pulls between the prize award
events.
133. The method of claim 132 wherein currency denomination is
cents.
134. The method of claim 132 wherein the range of numbers
determined from the total wager amount includes one number for each
unit of currency denomination wagered on the game.
135. The method of claim 133 wherein the range of numbers
determined from the total wager amount includes one number for each
unit of currency denomination wagered on the game.
136. The method of claim 130 wherein the at least one allotted
number is a block of numbers selected from the range of
numbers.
137. The method of claim 136 wherein the block of numbers contains
the lowest numbers in the range of numbers.
138. The method of claim 111 wherein the main game is a standard
game normally offered on the machine and the prize is at least one
bonus prize of a group of additional bonus prizes.
139. The method of claim 138 wherein the testing comprises the
steps of: (A) selecting a random number from a range of numbers
determined from the total wager amount; (B) allotting to the prize
at least one number selected from the range of numbers, the size of
the set of allotted numbers being related to the wager bet on the
main game; and (C) initiating the award of the prize in the event
that one of the allotted numbers matches the random number.
140. The method of claim 139 wherein the range of numbers is
related to the total wager amount divided by the wager.
141. The method of claim 139 wherein the range of numbers
determined from the total wager amount is equal to a sum of all
wagers expressed as a currency denomination made over the
theoretical number of handle pulls between the prize award
events.
142. The method of claim 141 wherein currency denomination is
cents.
143. The method of claim 141 wherein the range of numbers
determined from the total wager amount includes one number for each
unit of currency denomination wagered on the game.
144. The method of claim 142 wherein the range of numbers
determined from the total wager amount includes one number for each
unit of currency denomination wagered on the game.
145. The method of claim 139 wherein the at least one allotted
number is a block of numbers selected from the range of
numbers.
146. The method of claim 145 wherein the block of numbers contains
the lowest numbers in the range of numbers.
147. The method of claim 138 wherein at least one of the bonus
prizes is a progressive prize.
148. The method of claim 147 further comprising directly or
indirectly connecting at least one of the devices to a central
system, outputting a signal from the device based on the wager that
directly or indirectly causes the progressive prize to increase and
outputting a second signal when the prize award event occurs that
causes the progressive prize to be awarded.
149. The method of claim 147 further comprising directly or
indirectly connecting a secondary device to the device, directly or
indirectly connecting at least one of the secondary devices to a
central system, outputting a signal from the secondary device based
on the wager that directly or indirectly causes the progressive
prize to increase and outputting a second signal from the secondary
device when the prize award event occurs that causes the
progressive prize to be awarded.
150. The method of claim 147 wherein each of the progressive prizes
is increased with each game played on each of the main games on a
central system.
151. A prize for at least one gaming device wherein the prize is
awarded upon the occurrence of a prize award event, a probability
of the prize award event occurring being related to a total wager
amount.
152. The prize of claim 151 wherein the prize is a progressive
prize.
153. The prize of claim 151 wherein the prize is at least one bonus
prize of a group of additional bonus prizes.
154. The prize of claim 151 wherein the probability of the prize
award event occurring is related to the total wager amount and a
wager made on the gaming device.
155. The prize of claim 154 wherein the device is arranged to play
a main game at substantially the same time as testing for the prize
award event occurs.
156. The prize of claim 155 wherein the main game is a standard
game normally offered on the device and the prize is at least one
progressive prize.
157. The prize of claim 151 wherein an occurrence of the prize
award event is determined by selecting a random number from a
predetermined range of numbers to be associated with a main game,
and allotting to the game a set of numbers selected from the
predetermined range of numbers, the size of the set of allotted
numbers being related to a wager bet on the game, and in the event
that one of the numbers allotted to the game matches the randomly
selected number, the event has occurred.
158. The prize of claim 157 wherein the predetermined number range
is equal to the total wager amount expressed as a currency
denomination.
159. The prize of claim 158 wherein the currency denomination is
cents.
160. The prize of claim 151 wherein an occurrence of the prize
award event is determined by selecting a random number from a
predetermined range of numbers to be associated with a main game,
and allotting to the game a set of numbers selected from the
predetermined range of numbers, the size of the set of allotted
numbers being mathematically related to a wager bet on the game,
and in the event that one of the numbers allotted to the game
matches the randomly selected number, the event has occurred.
161. The prize of claim 160 wherein the predetermined number range
is equal to the total wager amount expressed as a currency
denomination.
162. The prize of claim 161 wherein the currency denomination is
cents.
163. The prize of claim 151 wherein an occurrence of the prize
award event is determined by selecting a random number from a
predetermined range of numbers to be associated with a main game,
and allotting to the game a number in the range of numbers, the
allotted number being proportional to a wager bet on the game and
in the event that the allotted number is greater than or equal to
the randomly selected number, the event has occurred.
164. The prize of claim 163 wherein the predetermined range of
numbers is related to the total wager amount divided by the
wager.
165. The prize of claim 163 wherein the predetermined number range
is equal to the total wager amount expressed as a currency
denomination.
166. The prize of claim 165 wherein the currency denomination is
cents.
167. The prize of claim 151 wherein an occurrence of the prize
award event is determined by selecting a random number from a
predetermined range of numbers to be associated with a main game,
and allotting to the game a number in the range of numbers, the
allotted number being proportional to a wager bet on the game and
in the event that the allotted number is less than or equal to the
randomly selected number, the event has occurred.
168. The prize of claim 167 wherein the predetermined range of
numbers is related to the total wager amount divided by the
wager.
169. The prize of claim 167 wherein the predetermined number range
is equal to the total wager amount expressed as a currency
denomination.
170. The prize of claim 169 wherein the currency denomination is
cents.
171. The prize of claim 151 wherein an occurrence of the prize
award event is determined by selecting a random number from a
predetermined range of numbers to be associated with a main game,
and allotting to the game a number in the range of numbers, the
allotted number being inversely proportional to a wager bet on the
game and in the event that the allotted number is less than or
equal to the randomly selected number, the event has occurred.
172. The prize of claim 171 wherein the predetermined range of
numbers is related to the total wager amount divided by the
wager.
173. The prize of claim 171 wherein the predetermined number range
is equal to the total wager amount expressed as a currency
denomination.
174. The prize of claim 173 wherein the currency denomination is
cents.
175. The prize of claim 151 wherein an occurrence of the prize
award event is determined by selecting a random number from a
predetermined range of numbers to be associated with a main game,
and allotting to the game a number in the range of numbers, the
allotted number being inversely proportional to a wager bet on the
game and in the event that the allotted number is greater than or
equal to the randomly selected number, the event has occurred.
176. The prize of claim 175 wherein the predetermined range of
numbers is related to the total wager amount divided by the
wager.
177. The prize of claim 175 wherein the predetermined number range
is equal to the total wager amount expressed as a currency
denomination.
178. The prize of claim 177 wherein the currency denomination is
cents.
179. The prize of claim 157 wherein the allotted set of numbers
selected from the predetermined range of numbers is a block of
numbers.
180. The prize of claim 179 wherein the block of numbers contains
the lowest numbers in the predetermined range.
181. The prize of claim 158 wherein the allotted set of numbers
selected from the predetermined range of numbers is a block of
numbers.
182. The prize of claim 181 wherein the block of numbers contains
the lowest numbers in the predetermined range.
183. The prize of claim 154 wherein the gaming device is directly
or indirectly connected to a central system and wherein a
signal-output from the device based on the wager directly or
indirectly causes the prize to increase and wherein a second signal
is output from the device when the prize award event occurs that
causes the prize to be awarded.
184. The prize of claim 154 wherein the gaming device is directly
or indirectly connected to a secondary device, wherein the
secondary device is directly or indirectly connected to a central
system and wherein a signal output from the secondary device based
on the wager directly or indirectly causes the prize to increase
and wherein a second signal is output from the secondary device
when the prize award event occurs that directly or indirectly
causes the prize to be awarded.
Description
CROSS REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority of provisional patent
application No. 60/035,5153 filed on Jan. 15, 1997, application No.
60/040/982 filed on Mar. 17, 1997, application No. 60/050/911 filed
on Jun. 19, 1997.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of Invention
[0003] This invention relates to a computerized control processes
executed on one or more central computers and one or more remote
computers. The control processes manage progressive gaming in which
a plurality of progressive prizes may be linked to a plurality of
gaming device's progressive game pay lines. This invention may
include Free Play apparatus to allow linkage between the plurality
of progressive prizes with gaming devices devoid of progressive
game play line logic. The gaming devices may accept wagers using
different currencies and different denominations within a
particular currency while participating in common prizes.
[0004] 2. Description of Related Art
[0005] Each of the prior art progressive gaming systems and methods
have common properties due to the regulatory environment,
characteristics of the gaming industry and the events related to
progressive processes.
[0006] Regulatory agencies have at least four primary concerns
related to progressive control systems, in addition to the common
and normal regulations concerning gaming activities.
[0007] 1. The control system must ensure that every game linked to
a progressive prize requires the same total wager amount to be made
by players over the theoretical life cycle of one prize award. This
requirement ensures each player theoretically makes the same
monetary investment to win the progressive prize.
[0008] 2. The portion of wagers contributed to increment the prize
value, fund starting prize values, etc. must be the same for each
wager made.
[0009] 3. The controlling system must provide a reasonable degree
of protection against system error or tampering resulting in prize
awards.
[0010] 4. Business functionality must be capable of producing
reports that provide an audit of the control system processes and
ensure wagers made by players have been accounted for
correctly.
[0011] Prior art gaming devices typically contain one or more games
that can be played for various prizes. Each game has a pay table
that defines all possible outcomes of one play of the game that can
result in awarding a prize to a player. Gaming devices used for
wagering are usually approved for play based on theoretical pay
out. For example, the REGULATIONS OF THE NEVADA GAMING COMMISSION
AND STATE GAMING CONTROL BOARD current as of March, 1997, section
14.040 states that "All gaming devices submitted for approval: 1.
Must theoretically pay out a mathematically demonstrable percentage
of all amounts wagered, which must not be less than 75 percent for
each wager available for play on the device.".
[0012] Theoretical pay out is mathematically demonstrated using the
game's pay table to compute the difference between the total
monetary amount of wagers made over a theoretically time period and
the prizes awarded. In prior art games, each line of the pay table
defines the number of coins required to be played, the criteria
that defines a win, the odds of the win criteria resulting from one
play of the game and the number of coins returned by the gaming
device to the player when a win is registered. In addition, a pay
line may include the ability to accept a progressive prize value
from the system. In prior art progressive gaming systems and
methods this is required to allow the game's pay line to be linked
to a system controlled progressive prize.
[0013] One representation of a prior art game's pay table is
illustrated in FIG. 15. In this representation there are 10
possible combinations of symbols, represented as AAA through JJJ,
that will result in awarding a prize to the player. For simplicity
pay lines 5 through 9 are not shown. Each pay line will return a
number of coins determined by the coins bet, as indicated in FIG.
15 as win amount for coin required, in which case the coins
required are 1, 2 or 3. In the event 3 coins are required, then the
pay line may also be linked to a system progressive prize,
indicated by SP. in FIG. 15 pay lines 1 and 2 must be linked to a
system progressive prize before the game may be played.
[0014] The pay table for one embodiment of a gambling machine with
a dynamic pay schedule is illustrated in U.S. Pat. No.
5,123,649.
[0015] The control processes of most of the prior art progressive
gaming systems and methods include games with a single progressive
pay line. Each participating game accepts wagers only with coins of
the same denomination and of the same currency. For example, if the
progressive prize is based on a $1.00 US denomination, all games
participating in the opportunity to win the progressive prize can
only accept wagers of a specific number of $1.00 US coins. In this
instance the odds associated with winning the progressive prize are
exactly the same on every participating game's progressive pay
line.
[0016] The control processes of a system illustrated in U.S. Pat.
No. 5,116,055 allow gaming devices accepting different coin
denominations of the sane currency to be played for a common
progressive prize. This process is based on a method of translating
the coin/pulse information normally generated by each game, into a
set of information which results in each game making an
approximately equal value of dollars to jackpot amounts that
increment the prize value over the theoretical life cycle of one
prize award.
[0017] The method of translation is characterized by calculations
using a constant value for unit of increment per pulse (a coin of a
specific denomination and currency) to apply against the actual
denomination of the coins used to play the game, the standard game
pay table data of hit frequencies (odds) and coins bet. The
calculations result in a computed coins per pulse value and a
computed percentage to jackpot factor.
[0018] The practical application of this process may be hindered by
the fact that all results produced during the process are
approximations, not the usually expected exactitudes. A further
hindrance is in the complexity of the translation process. This may
impact the ability of standard business functionality to verify
correctness.
[0019] In prior art progressive gaming systems and methods a
portion of each wager is used to fund an increment to the current
prize value, fund the starting value of the next prize after a win
occurs, and other uses. Commonly the portion used, usually known as
contributions, is determined by control data related to percentages
and the coin denomination.
[0020] For example, assume a prize starts at $1,000,000 with a
contribution rate of 3.5% to fund the next prize's starting value
of $1,000,000 and a 2.5% contribution rate to the growth of the
current prize's value. Also assume it is linked to gaming devices
requiring a $2.00 wager. This means each wager contributes $0.07
(2.00*0.035=0.07) to the next prize's starting value and $0.05
(2.00*0.025=0.05) to the increment of the current prize value. With
these contribution percentages there must be about 14,285,715
handle pulls, or games played, between wins for the prizes
$1,000,000 starting amount to be funded.
(1,000,000/0.07=14,285,714.29). In essence the total wager amount
made over the theoretical life cycle of one prize award would be
$28,571,430.00 (14,285,715*2.00=28,571,430.00).
[0021] During this theoretical time period the prize value would
increase by $714,285 (0.05*14,285,714.29=714,285.7145) to make the
average prize value worth $1,714,285 for each theoretical win. Also
assume that a marketing study has determined that to sustain player
interest the prize should be won on average about once every month.
This means there should be about 14,285,715 handle pulls, or games
played, over a thirty day time span. If each gaming, device were
able to average about 5 games played each minute for 10 hours a day
it would produce 3000 games played per day. If the prize were to be
won every thirty days and each gaming device generates 90,000
handle pulls a month (5 games*60 minute/hour*10 hours*30
days=90,000), there would have to be at least 159 gaming devices
attached to the prize (14,285,715/90,000=158.73 . . . ).
[0022] In prior art progressive gaming systems and methods the
linkage of a gaming device to a prize is dependent on the gaming
device accepting a specific number of coins of a particular
denomination and the pay line must always have the same odds. Using
the example given, each linked gaming device must only accept a
S2.00 US wager to play for the prize and the odds would always be
the same, in this case 14,285,715.
[0023] In this example it was illustrated that the prior art
progressive gaming systems and methods link prizes to gaming
devices based on the wager amount and odds fixed in a gaming
device's hardware and software. This creates a major problem when
the actual marketing acceptance varies from the projected
acceptance. Changes needed on the gaming devices to alter the wager
amount or odds require replacing the hardware or software in the
device. This may be very time consuming and expensive. The prior
art progressive gaming systems and methods also make it impossible
for a common prize to be linked to gaming devices using different
currencies as the basis for wagering due to fluctuating currency
rates.
[0024] It would be very advantageous to enable linking a gaming
device to a progressive prize in a way that would enable changing
the linkage criteria without changing the gaming device's hardware
or software. This would make the task of adjusting to changing
market forces easier and less expensive and also allow linking
common prizes to gaming devices using different currencies.
[0025] This invention incorporates this advantage by using total
wager amount as the basis of linkage between a prize and a gaming
device or other gaming apparatus. The total wager amount for a
prize is equivalent to the amount needed to finance the average
prize value. In the previous example the prize's total wager amount
was $28,571,428.58. A prior art gaming device's total wager amount
is the product of the wager times the odds and this invention would
continue to allow that as a basis of participation for the prior
art gaming devices. However, this invention specifies a Free Play
apparatus that uses the total wager amount, which may be
represented in different currencies, and the wager amount of a
specific bet made by a player, to dynamically compute the odds of a
prize award event. The advantage gained is the ability to adjust
the basis of linkage to quickly and economically respond to
changing market forces while allowing play for common prizes using
different currencies for placing wagers.
[0026] The nature of a progressive prize that is won on gaming
devices or apparatus that have play based on odds is that there is
no way to predict when a prize will be won. Due to the natures of
the random events that determine win or lose, the time span between
wins could be very short or very long. Only over a long period of
time encompassing many prize awards would the predicted time span
between prize awards based on the odds and player participation
become apparent.
[0027] Under certain circumstances, it would be advantageous to be
able to establish a maximum amount of a prize, or to establish a
date and time, or other criteria related to a boundary, beyond
which a prize award event may be forced upon one or more
participating players.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
[0028] One of the objectives of this invention is to allow players
using gaming devices which accept wagers in different currencies or
varying denominations within a particular currency, to share in the
possibility of winning common progressive prizes. A critical
element in the practical application of this objective is the
ability to enable gaming devices or other gaming apparatus
containing no linked progressive prize hardware or software logic,
to be linked to progressive prizes. The linkage is enabled without
modification to the essential characteristics of the gaming device
or game apparatus as represented by the gaming device's hardware or
software or the playing characteristics.
[0029] Another objective of this invention is to teach a method
whereby a boundary criterion such as a maximum value, or, an
expiration date and time, or other criteria may be specified for a
prize. Then, when random play has not created a prize award event
by the time the boundary criteria is reached, the method enables
the system to randomly select one or more of the current
participants as a winner.
[0030] These and other objects of the present invention will be
realized from the following specifications and drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0031] This invention comprises a system and process for linking a
plurality of progressive gaming devices' pay lines and gaming
devices or other gaming apparatus with or without inherent
progressive hardware or software logic, to a plurality of
progressive prizes in such a way that freedom of association is
constrained only by the business rules of any one of possibly
several regulatory agencies involved with an implementation of the
invention. Each prize may be controlled by the regulatory rules of
jurisdictions different from that of other prizes.
[0032] The system's control processes are integrated with the
gaming devices, signs and other attached devices or games utilizing
device drivers. These units of programmable logic are responsible
for controlling and monitoring each attached device or came
apparatus. Each device driver communicates with a particular kind
of device or game apparatus according to its rules for message
content and transmission. The device driver converts the native
protocol of the device or apparatus into the common internal
protocol used by the central control processes to monitor and
control the operation of all like kinds of devices and
apparatus.
[0033] The monitoring and control of progressive prizes permits a
prize award process to be initiated in different ways. Establishing
boundary criteria for a prize complements the prior art prize award
process that results from a gaming device generating a random prize
award event. If a gaming device has not generated a random prize
award event when the boundary criteria is met, an award process is
started to force a prize award upon one or more randomly selected
participating players.
[0034] Unlike prior art progressive gaming systems and methods that
control linkage between progressive prizes and game pay lines based
on some representation of a coin of a specific denomination issued
in a specific currency, this invention uses the total wager amount
as a common element shared between progressive prizes and the
linked game pay lines, other gaming devices and prior art games.
This enables linkage to be established regardless of the currency,
or denomination within a currency, used to place a wager on a
gaming device or game apparatus.
[0035] The processes create relationships between a progressive
prize based on one currency, and gaming devices and game apparatus
accepting wagers in different currencies, by using currency
exchange rates to normalize the total wager amount inherent with
every progressive prize and its associated games.
[0036] The ability to create a relationship between a progressive
prize and a progressive game pay, line or other game apparatus with
wagers using different currencies is conditioned by system
parameters set to reflect the rules of the regulatory agency
controlling the progressive prize.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0037] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a simple implementation of
the invention to illustrate the international distribution of the
system components.
[0038] FIG. 2 is an entity diagram of the data used to describe the
control processes of the invention.
[0039] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating the different capabilities
of device drivers.
[0040] FIG. 4 is an illustration of the difference between how the
prior art progressive gaming systems and methods handle events and
the methods used by this invention.
[0041] FIG. 5 is a flow chart depicting the decisions used when
linking a game's progressive pay line to a progressive prize.
[0042] FIGS. 6 and 6A are diagrams explaining the Free Play
apparatus attached to gaming devices with no progressive prize
logic.
[0043] FIG. 7 is a flow chart illustrating the logic of the Free
Play apparatus.
[0044] FIG. 8 is a flow chart depicting the decisions used when
linking a Free Play apparatus to a progressive prize.
[0045] FIG. 9 is an illustration of the processes involved with
accumulating wagers by currency.
[0046] FIG. 10 is an illustration of the processes involved with
changing percentages or currency exchange rates.
[0047] FIG. 11 is an illustration of the processes involved with
computing a prize value.
[0048] FIG. 12 is a flow chart depicting the decisions used after a
prize value has been computed.
[0049] FIG. 13 is a flow chart depicting the decisions used to
process a prize award event.
[0050] FIG. 14 is a flow chart depicting the wager accumulation
process as it relates to prize award processes.
[0051] FIG. 15 is a pay table as may be represented for a prior art
progressive game.
1 DEFINITIONS Acquisition Data The data produced by the gaming
devices as players participate in the progressive system. Data
recorded from game meters are one example of the acquisition data.
Central System One or more sets of computer hardware and software
in communication with GEMs or gaming devices, the computer hardware
and software being responsible for controlling a distributed
system. Contribution Percent A percent value associated with a
progressive prize. The contribution percents are used to finance
the starting value of a prize, increment the prize value, and other
uses as dictated by a particular jurisdiction. The financed amounts
are computed by multiplying the wagers amounts made towards a prize
by the contribution percent. Control Data The data input by system
operators to define the system environment, operating parameters,
constraints and other criteria. Examples include each gaming
device, GEMs, communication criteria, prizes, contribution percent
factors, linkage criteria between progressive prizes and games,
etc. Device Driver A set of hardware or software used to monitor
and control gaming devices. In addition to the normal control
processes it has at least three major responsibilities: 1. To act
as interpreter between the central system's standard protocol and a
gaming device's unique protocol. 2. To serve as the primary control
point for qualifying data acquired by the central system according
to specific events. 3. To filter bad or inconsistent data generated
by gaming devices before the data is acquired by the central
system, creating events whenever an instance of bad or inconsistent
data is detected Device Protocol The set of messages used to
control a specific gaming device. These messages may be consistent
only for a particular kind of gaming device manufactured by a
particular manufacturer. Distributed System A system consisting of
a plurality of sets of computer hardware and software in
communication with and controlling a plurality of computers located
at geographically separated sites. Event Condition A condition
arising from some sort of incident that is either outside the set
of normal incidents, or is a normal incident requiring specific
processes to be performed to meet the rules and regulations of a
governing agency. Event Data The data generated by the system to
track each event. For example the recording of a prize award may
include audit records recording any meters that could not be
gathered, the prize value displayed to the player, the actual prize
value computed after all contributions were computed, etc. Event
Process A process that enables a controlled response to an event
condition detected somewhere in the system. The objective or the
event process is to ensure the situation is handled in accordance
with the rules and regulations of a governing agency. Examples may
include progressive prize hits, end of day processes,
malfunctioning or non-responding gaming devices, remote computers,
or other system components. FPA See Free Play Apparatus Free Play
Apparatus An apparatus that communicates with a gaming device and
comprises progressive hardware and software needed by the device to
be linked to one or more progressive prizes. Game A process
providing a player with the opportunity to place a wager, interact
in some manner with either a gaming device or a house employee,
such as a dealer or table operator, for the purpose of winning a
prize. Gaming Device A device used as a game of chance where a
player may place wagers to participate in play in return for the
chance of winning prizes such as a slot machine. Also, devices that
control games or other gaming devices such as the Free Play
Apparatus used control non-progressive gaming devices, keno, bingo,
tablegames or others such as roulette. Gaming Environment Manager A
computerized device that connects the central system with the
device drivers controlling gaming devices. GEM See Gaming
Environment Manager Handle Pull A gaming industry term used to
indicate one play on a gaming device or other game of chance. Host
Computer A computer acting as the controlling entity for another
computer or computerized device. Linked Game A game that is
associated with one or more progressive prizes. Pay Table The data
required in each gaming device that defines the out come of each
play that can result in a win condition. Poll Cycle A method of
controlling the accumulation of game meters that varies the rate of
accumulation according to the available communications and
computing capacity of the system at any particular point in time.
As the load on the system increases, the number of poll cycles
increase to spread the processing requirements allocated to
accumulation over a greater period of time. Prize Award The
condition that results from the win of a progressive prize on a
gaming device and the subsequent prize award event that ensures all
jurisdiction rules are enforced in regards to meter collection and
calculation of the final prize amount. Progressive Pay Line An
entry in the pay table of a gaming device that requires linkage to
a progressive system to determine the prize value to be paid to a
player when the results of play meets the criteria of the pay line
for a win. Progressive Prize A prize that starts at some value then
is incremented as wagers are placed on gaming devices linked to the
prize. The increment value is the result of multiplying the value
of the wagers made by a contribution percentage. Protocol A set of
defined messages used to communicate between system components.
Remote Computer A set of computer hardware and software located at
a site other than the central site. Surcharge Percent A percent
value computed by the linkage process that ensures wagers made by
participating players are subjected to equal contribution
percentages. System Activity Data Data that results from players
making wagers on gaming devices linked to the system. Examples
include the meter data captured for each prize award event. System
Operator People charged with the responsibility for operating the
central system computers, entering control data, and ensuring event
processes perform correctly. System Standard Protocol The set of
predefined messages used by the system to communicate between
processors. Each message has a specific set of information
according to its purpose. Total Wager Amount For a progressive
prize, this is the theoretical sum of all wagers made for each
prize award event. The total wager amount must be of a value that
will support all the criteria for the prize starting value,
increment values, and any other values generated as a result of
contribution percents applied against wagers. For a gaming device,
this is the sum of all wagers made over the theoretical number of
handle pulls, or plays of a game, between the prize award events.
The total wager amount is computed by multiplying the wager amount
times the odds of winning the prize. Two Way Communications A
method of enabling two components of the system to carry on a
conversation in which one component directs or otherwise instructs
another component to carry out some activity or other function. The
component receiving the instruction then responds with information
that enables the initiator of the conversation to ascertain the
results of the action performed or attempted. The conversation
consists of sets of protocol messages. Win Number A unique number
assigned the set of a progressive prize's system activity data
generated by gaming devices linked to the progressive prize. The
purpose of the win number is to control the accumulation of wagers
made to each prize award event and any prize related events.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0052] The physical embodiment of this invention is comprised of
one or more local or remote locations. Each location contains one
or more processors, known as Gaming Environment Managers (GEM),
which together with device drivers, are used to monitor and control
each connected gaming device or other prior art game or apparatus.
Each GEM is connected to a central system via appropriate
communication lines.
[0053] FIG. 1 illustrates a simple instance of the invention where
one location 101A has one GEM 104A and is located in Canada. A
second location 101B has one GEM 104B and is located in the
United-States. A third location 101C has one GEM 104C and is
located in Mexico. The central system, 102, is in the United
States. This figure is for illustration purposes only, there is no
system restriction on how many locations there may be, where the
locations physically exist, how many GEMs may be at one location,
nor where the central system may exist.
[0054] Communication lines 103A, 103B and 103C connect the
components of the system. These communication lines could be of any
particular kind depending on the capability of an international
location's existing facilities.
[0055] Each GEM contains device drivers 105A, 105B and 105C, for
monitoring and controlling the attached devices, an event manager
106A, 106B and 106C, and a polling process 107A, 107B and 107C. The
polling processes coordinate the sending of transactions to and
from the polling process 112 at the central system 102. The event
managers process each transaction from the central system and
create transactions to be returned to the central system. The
device drivers monitor and control each device or apparatus and
perform the data acquisition to record meter data indicative of
wagering activity and events generated from each device.
[0056] The central system contains the business process and report
generation functionality 108 responsible for maintenance of all
information used to define the physical system, including all
games, devices, prizes, linkage of games and devices to prizes,
currency exchange rates and other data needed by the operating
logic. It coordinates this information across the computer hardware
platforms to ensure accuracy. It is also the central repository and
distribution point for all data acquired by the system.
[0057] The polling process 117, is responsible for scheduling polls
to each GEM, transporting the transactions generated by the other
central system processes to the GEM, then receiving transactions
from the GEMs and passing them to the data acquisition process 109.
It also seeps the operational statistics needed to monitor and tune
the way the system functions. These statistics relate to poll cycle
times, number and type of transactions processed and other relevant
data by time of day and day of year.
[0058] The data acquisition process is responsible for accumulating
the records of wagering activity that occur on each game, applying
wagers towards prizes, computing prize amounts, and maintaining the
memory tables used by all other elements of the central system to
control processes. As event transactions are acquired they are
passed to the event control process 110.
[0059] The event control process 110 is responsible for monitoring
the progress of events and creating messages needed to affect
decisions to carry out or terminate operations.
[0060] The system operator interface process 111 serves as a
gateway for the system operator to monitor the operational
performance of the system and issue commands.
[0061] Normally, there are a number of steps outside the system
that must be taken before allowing player participation to occur.
These steps are related to regulatory agency approval for the
gaming devices, games and prizes along with the physical
installation of the equipment used for wagering, monitoring
equipment and the establishment of communication lines.
[0062] After regulatory approval is gained, the physical
environment is defined to the system to enable it to perform its
operational functions. The central system processes are responsible
for ensuring the data approved by the regulatory agency is entered
correctly and that the operational rules are adhered to. Normally,
the regulatory agency must approve the data related to the
progressive prizes, locations of gaming devices and other game
apparatus, the gaming devices along with their games and
progressive game pay lines, the linkage between progressive game
pay lines, gaming devices and other game apparatus and progressive
prizes, and other data prior to the data being entered into the
system.
[0063] The regulatory agency does not normally require beforehand
approval of contribution percent changes, currency exchange rates
and other data related to the deductions from the revenues of the
owners being contributed to prize values or reserve funds. However,
it is the responsibility of the system to ensure these elements are
accumulated from wagers in a manner that is fair and equitable
among the participating players for a prize and that the proper
audit trails are created to enable reporting processes to verify
system activity.
[0064] Once the system is operational, the normal day to day
control functions include adding, and removing progressive prizes,
adding and removing equipment and communication lines, controlling
the collection of wagering activity, contribution percent changes,
exchange rate changes between currencies, and progressive prize
awards, and ensuring all events are handled properly. There is a
daily process that reconciles player wagering activity for the day
and balances all financial activity. All activities are monitored
and controlled by the central system processes.
[0065] To ensure all system activity is controlled on a standard
time of day and day of year basis, all system processors operate on
Greenwich Mean Time or some other standard time. The time is
coordinated during the continuous polls from the central site to
the local and remote sites. Local presentation of time of day and
day of year is produced via system routines that convert the
Greenwich Mean Time to the standard of the particular location
based on time zones, daylight savings criteria, or other criteria
that may be in effect for a particular location.
[0066] The descriptions of the features of this invention are
presented from a logical beginning that describes the processes
involved with entering the control information. This is followed by
the description of the process controls used to monitor and control
player activity. It ends with a description of the control
functions that coordinate the end of day.
[0067] FIG. 2 is a simplified entity relationship diagram used to
demonstrate how system data is related. When the line connecting
entities has a crow's foot on its end, it means there are one or
more instances of that entity available to relate to the other
entity. When the line simply connects to an entity, it means there
is only one instance available. For example, the relationship
between location 201 and GEM 202 indicates that for one location
there may be one or more GEMs.
[0068] FIG. 2 illustrates the entities and data involved with
defining, the physical environment to the system. Progressive prize
data 209, performance expectations 210 and progressive processing
controls 211 will normally be the first data entered. Location data
201 will be entered for each physical site where gaming devices
will be located. There is an owner of each progressive prize 2094
that must enter into an agreement with the owner of a location 2013
and the agreement approved by the regulatory agency before the
location owner can be authorized for participation 2082. Once this
data has been entered, the remaining data is entered to define each
GEM 202, each gaming device 203, each game definition 205, each
game pay line to be linked to a progressive prize 206, the linkage
of each game definition to a gaming device 204, and the linkage of
each pay line or gaming device to a progressive prize 207.
Communications and other related data that may not be relevant to
ensuring the rules of the regulatory agency are adhered to are not
included in FIG. 2.
[0069] As games and other devices are defined to the system they
are associated with a particular device driver. Device drivers
function as a buffer between the system and a particular type of
device or game apparatus providing the system independence from the
peculiarities of specific devices.
[0070] The general functions of a device driver are explained
referencing FIG. 1. The polling process 107A receives transactions
from the central system polling process 112 and passes them to the
event manager process 106A. The event manager process either
carries out the commands contained in the transaction, or it may
pass certain commands directly to the device drivers for action.
The device driver either carries out the command or converts the
command to the unique format required by the particular device or
game apparatus. The device driver then periodically polls the
device, sending system messages to the device for action. The
device responds to the poll with messages it has queued. The device
driver converts the device's messages into the system format and
queues then for sending to the central system. As the polling
process 107A is polled by the central system 112 it packages any
transactions prepared by the event manager or device drivers and
sends them to the central system.
[0071] FIG. 3 illustrates some of the different methods used by the
device drivers to control various devices and game apparatus. Sign
devices 31 normally receive a protocol message over a communication
line 313 to tell it what is to be displayed. The device driver 312
converts the system message to the unique format required by the
sign device. There is usually a one way communication for most sign
devices.
[0072] Device drivers that control games have several permutations
due to the wide variety of gaming devices, their capabilities, and
the way this invention uses them to simulate progressive play when
the gaming device itself has no progressive logic in its hardware
or software.
[0073] A passive gaming device 321 never sends unsolicited messages
to the system. As it performs its functions, all messages are put
into queues. The device driver 322 receives messages from the
system and converts them into the unique format required by the
gaming device. The device driver 322 periodically polls the gaming
device over a communications line 323 sending any system messages
to the gaming device. As the gaming device 321 is polled it
performs the required actions as dictated by received messages, and
responds with messages from its queues. The device driver 322
converts the device's messages to the system format and puts them
into a queue for sending to the central system.
[0074] An active gaming device 331 sends unsolicited messages to
the system under some conditions. The device driver 332, is capable
of receiving the unsolicited message over a communication line 333.
Other than being able to receive an unsolicited message from a
device, the device driver 332 is very much like device driver 322
in that it also periodically polls the gaming device to send system
messages and receive device messages. In this case, the
communication line 333 may represent one or more physical lines
depending on the particular gaming device's requirements.
[0075] When the device driver is controlling a gaming device that
contains no progressive logic, either the device driver or a Free
Play apparatus attached to the gaming device may contain the logic
used to enable the gaming device to participate in progressive play
for a common linked progressive prize. This capability is explained
in detail as part of the linking process that connects a particular
gaming device with a particular prize.
[0076] Device drivers 342, 352 that monitor and control game
apparatus such as a bingo 341 or keno 351 game, require the game
apparatus to be able to receive and send messages associated with
each play of the game over an appropriate communications line 343,
353. The message information must provide at least an
identification of the game being played, the number of players
participating, the amounts wagered and the amounts won. It is
anticipated that certain bingo and keno games may also, through the
use of total wager amounts, participate in progressive prizes and
thus require prize award information. The central system would
provide the current prize value for display by the bingo or keno
game apparatus at the beginning of each game. After a game has been
played, the game apparatus would send to the system the information
about the game played including prize award events.
[0077] In addition to isolating the central system from the
physical devices, the device drivers are responsible for qualifying
each set of acquisition data and event data with the appropriate
progressive prizes' win number, currency, and other data. The
processes associated with prize award events and end of day shall
be described further on however, it is noted that the device driver
is a key factor that enables the practical application of this
invention's processing philosophy. The device driver's
responsibility for event qualification allows the central system to
collect data for each major event using simple data acquisition
logic. As illustrated in FIG. 4, this is not the case for prior art
progressive gaming systems and methods that attempt to coordinate
system wide events at the central system level.
[0078] With prior art progressive gaming systems and methods
control functionality 401A, data is acquired from devices according
to events controlled by the central system. Event conflict
resolution at this level is very complex. In a very large system it
approaches impossible. This is due to the fact the central system
402A must take into consideration conflicting random events that
may be generated by the gaming devices 404A, particularly prize
award events. For example, in prior art progressive gaming systems
and methods, the first act of processing a prize award is to set a
system wide state associated with a coordinated effort to reset
prize values and collect meters from linked gaming devices. The
fact that random events in this type of system are truly random
means it is possible for other prize award events for the same
prize to be generated while one is currently being processed. This
results in either very complex control logic to enable one event to
override another event or terminate it, or very simple control
logic to merely ignore the subsequent event and let system
operators figure it out. The last option is most commonly used due
to the very low probability events have of conflicting with each
other.
[0079] However, the international application of this invention
presupposes a significantly larger number of devices to be
incorporated in a physical embodiment than that usually present in
prior art progressive gaming systems and methods. This anticipation
will result in a much more likely probability that there will be
conflict between events. Therefore, the control logic of this
invention has been structured to push the qualification of data
associated with events to the lowest level of the system, namely
the device drivers 403B controlling the gaming device 404B. At this
level the qualification of data becomes a binary decision because a
particular device can have only a single state. When data arrives
at the central system it is acquired into the appropriate event
category and instance according to the qualifying data assigned by
the device driver. This method of separating the control processes
for conflict resolution from the central system allows the central
system to function as a simple data acquisition process for
accumulating the data from the device drivers while retaining
complete control over every event. Data acquisition is explained in
detail in the appropriate section dealing with prize awards,
percent changes, and end of day processes.
[0080] While data edits occur throughout the data entry processes,
the process of linking progressive prizes to gaming devices is
subjected to special checks to enforce compliance with the rules of
the regulators, the owners of the prizes and the owners of the
gaming devices. From the regulatory viewpoint, these checks ensure
that the theoretical total wager amounts are substantially equal
and that contributions are collected equally from all players. From
the viewpoint of the owner of a prize, the checks ensure only those
owners with an agreement to participate can be linked. From the
viewpoint of the owner of a gaming device or apparatus, the checks
ensure that the contribution percentage being taken from the wagers
does not exceed the maximum authorized.
[0081] FIG. 5 illustrates a flowchart specifying the logical steps
taken to decide if a progressive game pay line can be linked to a
progressive prize. The first check 510 ensures the owner of the
location where the gaming device or game apparatus physically
exists has authorization to participate. Referencing FIG. 2, this
is a matter of ensuring the owner value 2013 in the location data
201 exists in the owner value 2082 in the participation
authorization data 208. If the check fails, the linkage 590 cannot
be done.
[0082] The decision blocks 520 through 570 ensure the total wager
amounts of the gaming device pay line and the progressive prize are
compatible according to the rules of the appropriate regulatory
agency. Check 520 conditions the logic based on the ability of the
game to dynamically modify its total wager amount as indicated by
the logical setting of the dynamic update of total wager amounts
field 2055 in the game definition data 205. If the game has the
ability to dynamically update its total wager amount, the check is
made 530 to see if the progressive prize's total wager amount 2098
is within the range of total wager amounts 2064 and 2065 in the
progressive game pay line data 206. The check is satisfied with
this equation:
(GTL*ER)=<PT
and (GTH*ER)=>PT
[0083] where
[0084] GTL=game pay line's lowest total wager amount 2064
[0085] GTH=game pay line's highest total wager amount 2065
[0086] ER=exchange rate from location to prize currency 2123
[0087] PT=prize's total wager amount 2098
[0088] For example a Canadian game playing for a USA prize:
(25,765,477.87*0.7484)=<28,571,428.58
and (48,242,857.15*0.7484)=>28,571,428.58
[0089] where the Canadian game has the ability to accept a total
wager amount in the range of 25,765,477.87 through 48,242,857.15
and automatically adjust its wager and or odds to fit the
requirements of the prize.
[0090] If the equation returns a false value, then the linkage 590
cannot be done.
[0091] If the game does not have the ability to dynamically update
its total wager amount, the check is made 540 to determine if the
progressive prize's total wager amount 2098 is compatible with the
progressive game pay lines lowest total wager amount 2064 with this
equation: 1 absolute value of PT - ( GTL * ER ) PT must be =<
MV
[0092] where
[0093] GTL=game pay line's lowest total wager amount 2064
[0094] ER=exchange rate from location to prize currency 2123
[0095] PT=prize's total wager amount 2098
[0096] MV=maximum variance allowed for this prize 2096
[0097] For example a Canadian game playing for a USA prize: 2 28 ,
571 , 428.58 - ( 38 , 235 , 158.95 * .7471 ) 28 , 571 , 428.58 =
.000207
[0098] In the above example, if the maximum variance had been set
to, for example 0.000, or 0.0003, then the equation would return
true. Had it been set to, for example 0.0000 or 0.0001, then the
equation would return false.
[0099] If the equation returns a false value, then the linkage 590
cannot be done.
[0100] Check 550 is made to determine if the prize requires an
equal contribution amount from each player, indicated by the
require equal contribution flag 2097. If it is true, a surcharge
percent is computed 560. Computing the contribution amount using
the sum of the contribution percent and the surcharge percent
ensures exactly the same contribution amount is taken from each
wager. The surcharge percent is computed with this equation: 3 SC =
( IP * PT GTL * ER ) - IP
[0101] where
[0102] SC=Surcharge Percentage 2074
[0103] IP=progressive prize's increment percent 2114
[0104] PT=prize's total wager amount 2098
[0105] GTL=game pay line's lowest total wager amount 2064
[0106] ER=exchange rate from location to prize currency 2123
[0107] Following on with the previous example, 4 .00000415979493 =
( .02 * 28 , 571 , 428.58 ( 38 , 235 , 158.95 * .7471 ) ) - .02
[0108] As can be demonstrated, with this surcharge percent, the
Canadian Game would, over the theoretical life cycle of the prize
award contribute exactly the same amount from the total wagers
represented by the total wager amount.
28,571,428.58*0.02=571,428.5716
38,235,158.95*0.7471)*0.02000415979493=571,428.5716
[0109] The final check is made 570 to determine if the sum of the
percentages being taken for progressive purposes exceeds the
maximum allowed by the owner of the game. The check is satisfied
with this equation:
(SC+IP+RP+CP)=<MP
[0110] where
[0111] SC=Surcharge Percentage 2074
[0112] IP=progressive prize's increment percent 2114
[0113] RP=progressive prize's reset percent 2115
[0114] OP=any other percentages not described in this invention
[0115] MP=game's maximum percent for progressives 2057
[0116] If the equation returns a false value, then the linkage
cannot be done 590 otherwise the linkage is allowed 580.
[0117] Creating a linkage between a gaming device with no
progressive pay lines and a progressive prize requires that the
Free Play apparatus be attached to the gaming device to contain the
logic for generation of random numbers to simulate the play of a
progressive pay line. This capability is checked by the logical
setting of the progressive simulator flag 2161 referencing FIG. 2.
In addition, a particular regulatory agency may require that the
device driver supply a visual display of the current prize amount
and provide audio notification of a prize award event, both of
these capabilities are not normally a part of a gaming device with
no progressive capabilities.
[0118] FIG. 6 illustrates a Free Play apparatus used to provide a
connection between device driver and a gaming device with no
progressive pay line logic for the purpose of enabling the gaming
device to participate in a linked progressive prize. The Free Play
apparatus 602 would contain a standard processor board, a video
display 603 and speakers 604 and, in this case, be mounted possibly
on top of the gaming device 601 such that the Free Play apparatus's
communication and power supply lines 606 would be contained inside
the gaming device's cabinet.
[0119] The Free Play apparatus' communication line would be
connected to the device driver's communication line 607. The
connection may be direct, in which case the Free Play apparatus
performs all communications between the device driver 608 and the
gaming device 601, or with a standard communication line adapter
used to split the signal, in which case the Free Play apparatus
would perform only the communications related to progressives. The
connections would be located inside the gaming device's cabinet.
Communications from the device driver to the Free Play apparatus
would enable the device driver to send appropriate configuration
messages to the Free Play apparatus controlling the video display
and speakers. The messages would specify information such as the
current prize values for prizes linked to the gaming device as well
other information, such as commercials, advertising clips, or other
messages for display to the players. Communications from the Free
Play apparatus to the device driver would consist of event messages
indicating prize awards, intruder events, malfunction events and
response messages.
[0120] FIG. 6A describes the connections between the Free Play
apparatus and its external interfaces. The Free Play apparatus 6A02
is powered by a connection to the gaming device's power supply
6A011. It exchanges messages with the device driver using a
communications line 6A08. Instructions for selecting prizes are
received from players pressing a selection button 6A05. Messages
are sent to players via the display connection 6A03 and the speaker
connection 6A04.
[0121] The functionality of the Free Play apparatus is driven from
connections to the gaming device. When a player initiates play, an
impulse is generated on the connection 6A012. The amount of the
wager made is obtained from connection 6A013. Sending the
appropriate signal through the connection 6A014 disables the gaming
device. If the Free Play apparatus has a direct connection to the
device driver, then the connection 6A015 would be used to send
central system messages to the gaming device and also to receive
messages from the gaming device to be sent to the central
system.
[0122] If the gaming device had an attached player tracking device,
communication line 6A016 would be used to provide the interface
between the device and the central system.
[0123] The Free Play apparatus would be connected to the various
sensors incorporated in the gaming device that detect opening of
doors, tilting of the device or any other security related events
through one or more connections 6A017.
[0124] FIG. 7 illustrates the functionality of the Free Play
apparatus' logic. When the Free Play apparatus is enabled, it would
present the available prizes to the player based on criteria such
as amount of the wager, player rating or others 701. If multiple
prizes are available, the Free P lay apparatus may also contain a
selection button 605 (FIG. 6) to enable the player to select from a
menu of different progressive prizes 702. In this case, the Free
Play apparatus would be configured to select a default prize, and
enable the player to make a selection 703 only when the gaming,
device is not actively playing a game. As soon as play is detected
on the gaming device, the currently selected prize is the one being
played for.
[0125] The Free Play apparatus would actively monitor the gaming
device 704 to detect play at the instant it occurs. As soon as play
is detected, the Free Play apparatus would execute play 705 for
each selected prize. Play is executed by determining the value of
the wager, then creating a set of numbers for the random number
generator using this equation: 5 MR = PT WG
[0126] where
[0127] MR=Maximum number for the range of random number
selection
[0128] PT=Prize's total wager amount
[0129] WG=Wager made as a multiple of the lowest monetary unit
[0130] For example, if the total wager amount is 2,857,142,858 and
the wager made is $2.00 then: 6 14 , 285 , 715 = 2 , 857 , 142 ,
858 200
[0131] These numbers are the same as previously used in the
description of related art. In this case the play on the Free Play
apparatus exactly matches that theoretically produced in the before
mentioned examples. By varying the amount of the wager it can be
easily demonstrated that the computed odds, represented by the
maximum number for range of random numbers, will compensate for any
value of the wager made, such that the total wager amount is always
the same.
[0132] The Free Play apparatus would then generate a random number
from the range of 1 through the maximum number for the range as
computed. If the number produced was equal to a predefined number,
such as the number one ("1"), then the prize award process would
start. In essence, this control function provides a player with two
plays for each wager. One associated with the gaming device, the
other when the Free Play apparatus performs the random number
selection.
[0133] However, one possible embodiment would connect the wager
connection 6A012 with a separate coin or bill acceptor attached to
the gaming device. In this embodiment a range of random numbers
would only be created if the player made a separate wager for the
purpose of planing for the progressive prize.
[0134] If the play results in a prize award event 706, the Free
Play apparatus would immediately disable the gaming device 707 and
create the appropriate visual and audio output to notify the player
of the prize award 708. The Free Play apparatus would then generate
a prize award event for the central system 709.
[0135] Depending on the specific gaming device, the Free Play
apparatus may contain various sensors to allow it to detect
intrusions into the device's cabinet. For example, sensors could
detect the opening of the device cabinet door, access to the
device's logic area, tampering with the Free Play apparatus
housing, etc. Whenever any of these alarms are triggered, the Free
Play apparatus would disable the device and transmit the
appropriate event messages to the system.
[0136] The control processes that links the Free Play apparatus
with a progressive prize is illustrated in FIG. 8. The first check
810 ensures the owner of the location where the gaming device
physically exists has authorization to participate. Referencing
FIG. 2, this is a matter of ensuring the owner value 2013 in the
location data 201 exists in the owner value 2082 in the
participation authorization data 208. If the check fails, the
linkage 840 cannot be done.
[0137] The final check is made 820 to determine if the sum of the
percentages being taken for progressive purposes exceeds the
maximum allowed by the owner of the game. The check is satisfied
with this equation:
(IP+RP+OP)=<MP
[0138] where
[0139] IP=progressive prize's increment percent 2114
[0140] RP=progressive prize's reset percent 2115
[0141] OP=any other percentages not described in this invention
[0142] MP=game's maximum percent for progressives 2057
[0143] If the equation returns a false value, then the linkage
cannot be done 840 otherwise the linkage is allowed 830.
[0144] In other possible embodiments the functionality of the Free
Play apparatus could be included in the hardware or software logic
of the gaming device itself.
[0145] Once all data is entered and prizes and games are linked,
the gaming devices are enabled for player participation. As player
participation occurs, the control processes accumulate the wagers
made for each prize by currency. As the device drivers monitor each
gaming device, play is detected as the gaming device's meters
change. For each play, the device drivers format a meter message
based on values taken from the gaming device. The message is sent
to the central system to record the current game meters and
accumulate wagers.
[0146] FIG. 9 illustrates the processes used to accumulate wagers
by currency. The central system accumulates wagers made on each
prize by currency and surcharge percent in a matrix for each win
number 905A, 905B. The purpose for matrices by win number is
explained in the prize award control process. In regards to this
illustration it is sufficient to state that each set of meter
values or other record of wagering activity is always qualified
with the win number 9014, 9015 to point to the correct matrix for
the prize.
[0147] As the system receives the new game meters 901, it computes
the change 902 from the prior game meters value 903 then replaces
the prior meter values 903 with the new game meters 901. The gaming
device ID 9011, game number 9012 and prize win numbers 9014, 9015
point to entries in the progressive prize to game pay line linkage
table 904, to determine the surcharge percent applicable to wagers
made for each prize linked to the game. The currency 9016 and the
surcharge percents 90451, 90452 are then used to point to a wager
accumulator for each prize 9052A, 9052B then the value of wagers
made 9023 is used to increment the accumulated wagers 9052A,
9052B.
[0148] As this may be a relatively time consuming accumulation
process, an independent event process within the event control 112,
referring to FIG. 1, maintains a number of poll cycles 2171 and
also assigns a specific poll cycle number to each GEM 2023,
referring to FIG. 2. The poll cycle numbers are used to condition
when the central system requests acquisition data from a GEM. For
example, if the number of poll cycles is 10, each GEM would have a
poll cycle number in the range of 1 through 10. As the polling
process polls all GEMs, each iteration through the list of GEMs is
assigned a poll cycle number by incrementing the last poll cycle
number. When the increment pushes the poll cycle number greater
than the number of poll cycle numbers, it is reset to 1. As each
GEM is polled, if the poll cycle number of the GEM is equal to the
current poll cycle of the polling process, the GEM is instructed to
send acquisition data in response to the poll. Otherwise the GEM
sends only the event data. With the number of poll cycles set to
10, if a poll cycle of all GEMs took about 6 seconds to complete,
the central system would acquire meter data from all GEMs once
every minute (6 seconds*10 poll cycles=60 seconds--or 1
minute).
[0149] The independent event process constantly monitors the data
acquisition queue containing the data acquired from the GEMs. As
the queue grows larger, indicating a backlog of data waiting to be
processed, the event process would raise the number of poll cycles,
thus lengthening the time for acquiring meter data from all GEMs.
As the queue grows smaller, it would lower the number of poll
cycles. Each time the number of poll cycles is changed, the
independent event process starts with the first GEM, assigning it
poll cycle number one. It would continue through the entire list of
GEMs, assigning the next poll cycle number to each one so the poll
cycle numbers are evenly distributed. This methodology enables
spreading the collection of meters over a period of time while
ensuring each GEM is polled on a timely basis for events. It also
distributes the processing requirements to ensure the central
system does not exceed the processing power of the computer it is
running on.
[0150] FIG. 10 illustrates the process that occurs when changes are
made to either the contribution percents, or a currency exchange
rate. These changes are initiated within a data maintenance
function prior to the central system performing its control process
to affect the changes. As the changes are prepared, each link
between a game and a prize is evaluated to ensure the linkage is
still within the boundaries of acceptance as previously described.
Any games becoming unqualified for linkage to a prize are set to a
disabled status prior to affecting the changes in percentage
factors, surcharge percents or exchange rates.
[0151] When any contribution percentage or exchange rate affecting
a prize changes, the system converts the accumulated wagers for
each affected prize into an amount in the prize's currency. For
simplicity, FIG. 10 shows only an increment percent and a currency
exchange rate.
[0152] When the process starts, each accumulator of wagers
associated with the progressive prize 1001 is converted into a
monetary amount in the currency of the progressive prize. The
computation is:
(AW*ER)*(IP+SC)=MA
[0153] where
[0154] AW=accumulated wagers by currency and surcharge percent
[0155] ER=exchange rate from wager currency to prize currency
[0156] IP=prize's increment percent
[0157] SC=surcharge percent
[0158] MA=monetary amount in the currency of the prize
[0159] This computation is performed on each currency's accumulated
wagers 1002. The amount is summed 1003, then used to update the
prize's control data 1004 along with the new percentage factors and
the accumulated wagers are set to zero 1005. If currency exchange
rates have also changed, they are updated 1006. Not illustrated on
the diagram is the process of putting all current game meters in a
queue for recording to a meter data set for use by the business
functionality and reporting processes. This control process is the
same as that explained in the end of day process.
[0160] As any change in the contribution or exchange rates occur,
the surcharge percentage may be affected. As illustrated in FIG.
10, the surcharge percentage changed from 0.00000415979493 to
-0.000022941158344. Referring to the previous example in which the
exchange rate of 0.7471 and a contribution percentage of 0.02 was
used, this example illustrates that the new surcharge percentage
works with the exchange rate of 0.7484 and contribution percentage
of 0.015 plus the surcharge percentage.
28,571,428.58*0.015=428,571.4287
0.015-0.000022941158344=0.01497705884166
38,235,158.95*0.7484)*0.01497705894166=428,571.4287
[0161] Periodically the system computes the current prize value for
display to players. The prize value is always computed in the
currency of the prize. The equation used to compute a current prize
value is.
PA+PI+(sum of(AW*ER)*(IP+SC))
[0162] where
[0163] PA=the minimum prize amount
[0164] PI=prior increment value
[0165] AW=accumulated wagers by currency and surcharge percent
[0166] ER=exchange rate from wager currency to prize currency
[0167] IP=prize's increment percent
[0168] SC=surcharge percent
[0169] FIG. 11 illustrates the computation process. The minimum
prize amount 1101 and prior increment amount 1102 are taken from
the prize's control data and added to the sum of all the
accumulated wagers 1103 after they are converted to a current
increment 1104 monetary value 1106 using the currency exchange
rates 1105. The result is the current prize value 1107.
[0170] Once the current prize value has been computed, it is
subjected to checks to ensure it does not exceed the maximum
liability for the progressive prize. FIG. 12 contains a flowchart
that illustrates the decision processes that occur after the
current prize value has been computed. The prize value is compared
to the maximum prize amount liability 20910 (referencing FIG. 2) to
see if it has exceeded the acceptable limits 1201. If the prize
value is greater, then the prize value is changed to the maximum
prize amount liability value 1202. If this is the first time this
has happened 1203, then an event is generated to inform the system
operator 1204.
[0171] Once all checks have been made, the prize value is converted
to the currency of each wager 1205 and 1206 then sent throughout
the system for display to the players. The equation used to convert
the prize value is:
PV*ER
[0172] where
[0173] PV=the prize value in the prize's currency
[0174] ER=exchange rate from prize currency to wager currency
[0175] However, one possible embodiment may send the prize value
throughout the system for display to the players in the currency
used to process the prize. Under this embodiment the prize value
would not be subjected to the impact of fluctuations caused by the
currency exchange rates.
[0176] In prior art progressive gaming systems and methods prize
award events occur randomly as a result of the playing of a gaming
device. This causes the timing of a prize award event to be
unpredictable. However, the process as illustrated in U.S. Pat. No.
5,280,909 uses a randomly generated prize value to condition the
prize award event. In essence, when an increment to the current
prize value causes that value to meet or exceed the predetermined
randomly selected prize value, the central system creates a prize
award event associated with the gaming device responsible for the
increment that created the condition. However, this condition is
also unpredictable when related to the time of the prize award
event, or the amount of the prize at the time of award. This
process also removes the normal probability, however small, that
more than one player may win a particular prize.
[0177] This invention introduces an element of predictability into
the prize award event to facilitate the creation of progressive
prizes associated with certain timed social events or other needs,
while retaining the feature of randomly awarded prizes and more
than one player winning a particular prize. This is accomplished by
setting the operating characteristics 215, referencing FIG. 2, of
the prize to establish boundaries that will start a prize award
process. In the examples given in FIG. 2, a boundary for end time
2156 could be set, or when the prize value exceeds the maximum
prize value 2157 could be set for a prize. When a condition is met,
such as the current date and time meets the expiration date and
time, or the prize value meeting or exceeding the maximum prize
value, the central system creates one or more messages to the GEMs
participating in the prize. This message creates an event on each
GEM. The event monitors each device driver to select the gaming
device with the first detected handle pull or other play within a
specified time period, a preferred time period being one second in
duration. If play is detected, the event instructs the device
driver to create a prize award for that device. If play is not
detected within the specified time period, the event is
terminated.
[0178] Once the central system receives a prize award message it
performs the normal prize award process as described further on. If
a GEM receives notification of a prize reset for the prize before a
handle pull or other play of a linked gaming device is detected, it
terminates the event monitoring handle pull activity and performs
the normal prize award process.
[0179] If the central system does not receive a prize award message
after a specified time, a preferred time period being two poll
cycles, it would repeat the process of sending messages to the
GEMs. This process would continue to iterate until a prize is
awarded to at least one player.
[0180] To enable the central control processes to isolate the
activity associated with each prize award event, each progressive
prize award event is identified with a unique win number. The win
number is disseminated down to the device driver level. The device
driver assigns the current win number of each progressive prize
linked to the progressive pay lines of each gaming device's games
to all meter values reported by the gaming devices. As previously
described, the central system receives the meters and accumulates
the wagers made by currency and surcharge percent. When a gaming
device generates a prize award event, it sends a prize award
message to the device driver. The device driver formats a system
prize award message and sends it to the central system.
[0181] Communication line failures may prevent the award message
from reaching the central system. In this case, manual procedures
must be followed to inform the central system operators that a
prize award has been generated. The central system operator would
then start a prize award event from the operator console. The
information entered would be used to create a prize award message.
As a safeguard, the system would require the operator to enter a
manual win reset code 2113 associated with the win number of the
award.
[0182] FIG. 13 contains a flowchart that describes the processes
that occur when the central system starts the prize award process.
The prize award's win number is compared to the current win number
for the progressive prize 1301. If the win number is less than the
current win number then the prize award message is for a previous
prize. In this case the prize award message is recorded then sent
to the business function for processing 1302.
[0183] If the win number is not less than the current win number
then the prize award is for the current prize. The process then
increments the win number 1303. At this point the process checks to
see if the progressive prizes status 2093 is set to pending shut
down 1304. If it is, then the prize reset message, with a logical
flag instructing all device drivers to close the progressive prize
processing for this prize, is sent to all device drivers
controlling gaming devices linked to the progressive prize
1305.
[0184] If the progressive prize is to continue, the process checks
to see if the owners of the prize have set up new progressive
processing controls 211 to be implemented when the win number is
reached 1306. If no progressive processing controls exist for the
new win number then a new set of data is created by copying the
data from the old win number 1307. If the owners have not set up
new performance expectations 210 data for the new win number 1308,
then a new set of data is created by copying the data from the old
win number 1309.
[0185] The progressive processing controls 211 and performance
expectations 210 data are used to create the control data and wager
accumulation data areas for processing the new win number 1310. The
progressive control process is now ready to process wagers for the
new win number. It starts the new win number by sending the prize
reset message to all device drivers controlling gaming devices
linked to the progressive prize 1311.
[0186] As each device driver receives the prize reset message, it
notifies the gaming device of the new prize value. If the gaming
device responds with confirmation that it has changed the prize
value, then the gaming device's meters are sent to the central
system with the old win number. If the gaming device responds with
a prize hit message, then the device driver formats both a prize
hit message and the meter message using the old win number and
sends both messages to the central system. The win number
associated with the gaming device is then incremented. As each
device driver will receive the reset message at different times,
and the time taken to reset the device will vary depending on
conditions such as the gaming device being in a state of playing a
game, there will be meter messages for the same prize received by
the central system with different win numbers.
[0187] FIG. 14 describes the processes that occur when waders for a
prize are being reported under more than one win number. As the
previously described process accumulates wagers 1401, it checks the
progressive prizes win number associated with the meter data
against the current win number 1402. If the win number is less than
the current win number then the meters are for a prize award. In
this case a check is made to see if the meter data is the last to
be reported 1403. If this is the last meter data for the prize
award, then the prize award is closed and the business process is
notified 1407. If the meter data was not the last, then a check is
made to see if the time allocated to performing the prize award has
been exceeded 1404. If this is the case, the system operator is
notified 1405 of the devices that have not reported. The system
operator makes the decision 1406 to either continue the prize
process or proceed to close the prize award process 1407.
[0188] Each location may be physically sited in wide ranging
geographical locations spanning a plurality of international time
zones. The owner of each location determines the open and close
times, holiday schedules and the time of day used to transition
business days. The central system uses the open and close times and
holiday schedules to notify each GEM at the location to set the
attached gaming devices to an open or closed status.
[0189] When a location's time for end of day is reached, the
central system notifies each GEM at the location to send the
current meters for end of day. When the meters are received, they
are sent to the business functions to process the location's end of
day. The use of device drivers to monitor and control gaming
devices eliminates the chance of bad meter data entering into the
system. Each gaming device will have the limits of normal operating
criteria defined that will enable its device driver to detect
invalid meters and runaway conditions before they get into the
system data. In the event invalid meters or runaway conditions are
detected, the device driver will disable the offending gaming
device and notify the central system via a generated event message.
This eliminates the often labor intensive tasks normally associated
with correcting meter data and the need to protect against a
runaway gaming device driving the progressive prize value to an
excessive value.
SUMMARY
[0190] This invention introduces control processes based on the
total wager amount. These control processes provide the ability to
support international participation for common progressive prizes.
Players in each participating gaming location place wagers in the
currency common to the location. The currency used to control the
prize may be different from the currency used to wager for the
prize. Currency exchange rates enable linkage between games and
prizes to be established in accordance with the rules and
regulations of regulatory agencies that ensure fairness to all
players. The currency exchange rates are used to compute prize
values from accumulated wagers and display prizes values to
participating players.
[0191] This invention's ability to monitor and control the very
large number of gaming devices and progressive prizes anticipated,
depends on the control methods provided by the device driver, win
number and poll cycles.
[0192] The ability to react quickly and economically as currency
exchange rates fluctuate is provided by the Free Play apparatus. As
currency exchanges rates change, the total wager amount as known to
the Free Play apparatus is changed. As this occurs, the odds as
computed by the Free Play apparatus will change ensuring all
players continue making the same monetary investment for the prize
award as represented in the currency used to control the prize.
[0193] Although the description above contains many specifications,
these should not be construed as limiting the scope of the
invention but as merely providing illustrations of some of the
presently preferred embodiments of this invention. Thus, the scope
of the invention should be determined by the appended claims and
their legal equivalents rather than by the examples given.
* * * * *