U.S. patent application number 11/419915 was filed with the patent office on 2006-11-23 for system and method for providing a host console for use with an electronic card game.
Invention is credited to James T. III Crawford, Jon Lester, Gehrig Henderson White.
Application Number | 20060264252 11/419915 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 37448945 |
Filed Date | 2006-11-23 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060264252 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
White; Gehrig Henderson ; et
al. |
November 23, 2006 |
SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING A HOST CONSOLE FOR USE WITH AN
ELECTRONIC CARD GAME
Abstract
A host console and method for use with an electronic card table
is disclosed. The electronic card table has plurality of electronic
player interaction areas located around a periphery of the table
and a game computer. The game computer administers the electronic
card table and is coupled to the plurality of electronic player
interaction areas. The host console is connected to the game
computer. The host console includes a host display, a host
interface, and a host controller. The host controller is coupled to
the host display and the host interface and allows the host to
display information related to the card game and to pause and/or
stop the game, to reserve seats at a table and to penalize
players.
Inventors: |
White; Gehrig Henderson;
(Charlotte, NC) ; Crawford; James T. III;
(Charlotte, NC) ; Lester; Jon; (Gastonia,
NC) |
Correspondence
Address: |
HOWARD & HOWARD ATTORNEYS, P.C.
THE PINEHURST OFFICE CENTER, SUITE #101
39400 WOODWARD AVENUE
BLOOMFIELD HILLS
MI
48304-5151
US
|
Family ID: |
37448945 |
Appl. No.: |
11/419915 |
Filed: |
May 23, 2006 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60683810 |
May 23, 2005 |
|
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|
Current U.S.
Class: |
463/13 ;
273/309 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G07F 17/3232 20130101;
G07F 17/3234 20130101; G07F 17/322 20130101; G07F 17/3269 20130101;
G07F 17/32 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
463/013 ;
273/309 |
International
Class: |
A63F 9/24 20060101
A63F009/24; A63F 9/00 20060101 A63F009/00 |
Claims
1. A host console, for use with an electronic card table, the
electronic card table having a playing surface, a plurality of
electronic player interaction areas located around a periphery of
the table, and a game computer, each electronic player interaction
area providing a player interface for interaction with one of a
plurality of players, the game computer for administering an
electronic card game on the table, coupled to the plurality of
electronic player interaction areas, comprising: a host display for
displaying information to a host; a host user interface for
receiving host input; and, a host controller coupled to the host
display and the host user interface for interrupting the electronic
card game in response to input from the host.
2. A host console, as set forth in claim 1, wherein the host
controller in interrupting the electronic card game stops the
electronic card game.
3. A host console, as set forth in claim 1, wherein the host
controller in interrupting the electronic card game pauses a hand
of the electronic card game.
4. A host console, as se forth in claim 1, wherein the host
controller resumes the hand of the electronic card game in response
to host input.
5. A host console, as set forth in claim 1, the host controlling
allowing the user to specify that the game will be interrupted with
no delay or in a specified time period or in a specified number of
hands.
6. A host console, as set forth in claim 5, wherein the host may
enter the specified time period.
7. A host console, as set forth in claim 5, wherein the host may
enter the specified number of hands.
8. A method for providing information to a host related to an
electronic card table, the electronic card table a plurality of
electronic player interaction areas and a game computer, each
electronic player interaction area providing a player interface for
interaction with one of a plurality of players, the game computer
for providing an electronic card game to the players, including the
steps of: providing a host console, the host console being coupled
to the electronic poker table; receiving information from the host
via a user interface of the host console; and, interrupting the
electronic card game in response to input from the host.
9. A method, as set forth in claim 8, wherein the step of
interrupting the electronic card game includes the step of stopping
the electronic card game.
10. A method, as set forth in claim 8, wherein the step of
interrupting the electronic card game includes the step of pausing
a hand of the electronic card game.
11. A method, as se forth in claim 10, including the step of
resuming the hand of the electronic card game in response to host
input.
12. A method, as set forth in claim 8, including the step of
allowing the host to specify that the game will be interrupted with
no delay or in a specified time period or in a specified number of
hands.
13. A method, as set forth in claim 5, wherein the host may enter
the specified time period.
14. A method, as set forth in claim 5, wherein the host may enter
the specified number of hands.
15. A host console, for use with an electronic card table, the
electronic card table having a playing surface, a plurality of
electronic player interaction areas located around a periphery of
the table, and a game computer, each electronic player interaction
area providing a player interface for interaction with one of a
plurality of players, the game computer for administering an
electronic card game on the table, coupled to the plurality of
electronic player interaction areas, comprising: a host display for
displaying information to a host; a host user interface for
receiving host input; and, a host controller coupled to the host
display and the host user interface for reserving an electronic
player interaction area in response to input from the host.
16. A host console, as set forth in claim 15, wherein the host may
reserve an electronic player interaction area for a specific
player.
17. A host console, as set forth in claim 16, wherein each player
has an associated identification number, the electronic player
interaction area being reserved via the specific player's
identification number.
18. A host console, as set forth in claim 15, the host controller
changing a status of the electronic player interaction area from
open to reserved.
19. A host console, as set forth in claim 18, wherein the player is
required to logon to the reserved electronic player interaction
area within a specified time period.
20. A host console, as set forth in claim 19, wherein the specified
time period is predetermined.
21. A host console, as set forth in claim 19, wherein the specified
time period may be entered by the host.
22. A method for providing information to a host related to an
electronic card table, the electronic card table a plurality of
electronic player interaction areas and a game computer, each
electronic player interaction area providing a player interface for
interaction with one of a pluralities of players, the game computer
for providing an electronic card game to the players, including the
steps of: providing a host console, the host console being coupled
to the electronic poker table; receiving information from the host
via a user interface of the host console; and, reserving an
electronic player interaction area in response to input from the
host.
23. A method, as set forth in claim 22, wherein the host may
reserve an electronic player interaction area for a specific
player.
24. A method, as set forth in claim 23, wherein each player has an
associated identification number, the method including the step of
reserving the electronic player interaction area via the specific
player's identification number.
25. A method, as set forth in claim 22, including the step of
changing a status of the electronic player interaction area from
open to reserved.
26. A method, as set forth in claim 22, wherein the player is
required to logon to the reserved electronic player interaction
area within a specified time period.
27. A method, as set forth in claim 26, wherein the specified time
period is predetermined.
28. A method, as set forth in claim 26, wherein the specified time
period may be entered by the host.
29. A host console, for use with an electronic card table, the
electronic card table having a playing surface, a plurality of
electronic player interaction areas located around a periphery of
the table, and a game computer, each electronic player interaction
area providing a player interface for interaction with the players,
the game computer for administering an electronic card game on the
table, coupled to the plurality of electronic player interaction
areas, comprising: a host display for displaying information to a
host; a host user interface for receiving host input; and, a host
controller coupled to the host display and the host user interface
for penalizing one of the players by preventing the player from
participating in the electronic card game for a specified
period.
30. A host console, as set forth in claim 29, wherein the specified
period is a period of time.
31. A host console, as set forth in claim 30, wherein the host
controller allows the host to enter the period of time.
32. A host console, as set forth in claim 29, wherein the specified
period is defined by a number of hands.
33. A host console, as set forth in claim 32, wherein the host
controller allows the host to enter the number of hands.
34. A host console, as set forth in claim 29, the host controller
changing a status of the electronic player interaction area from
occupied to penalty.
35. A method for providing information to a host related to an
electronic card table, the electronic card table a plurality of
electronic player interaction areas and a game computer, each
electronic player interaction area providing a player interface for
interaction with one of a pluralities of players, the game computer
for providing an electronic card game to the players, including the
steps of: providing a host console, the host console being coupled
to the electronic poker table; receiving information from the host
via a user interface of the host console; and, penalizing one of
the players by preventing the player from participating in the
electronic card game for a specified period.
36. A method, as set forth in claim 35, wherein the specified
period is a period of time.
37. A method, as set forth in claim 36, including the step of
allowing the host to enter the period of time.
38. A method, as set forth in claim 35, wherein the specified
period is defined by a number of hands.
39. A method, as set forth in claim 38, including the step of
allowing to enter the number of hands.
40. A method, as set forth in claim 35, including the step of
changing a status of the electronic player interaction area from
occupied to penalty.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional
Patent Application 60/683,810, filed May 23, 2005, and U.S.
Provisional Patent Application (Ser. No. Not Available; Atty.
Docket No. 60,667-091), both of which are hereby incorporated by
reference in their entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates generally to a system and
method for providing host consoles features in a host console for
use with an electronic card game.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Gaming is an increasingly popular form of entertainment.
Games, particularly, games of chance and skill where one or more
players play and place wagers on a desired and/or predicted outcome
can be played in a variety of ways and in a variety of places,
including at a casino or other venue or on the Internet. Of the
various forms of games that are available for play, many utilize
playing cards. Of these, poker is arguably the most popular.
[0004] Traditionally, poker is played at a table with several
players wagering paper or coin money on a series of playing cards
dealt from a deck of fifty-two cards. This deck is comprised of
four suits at thirteen cards per suit. This form of poker requires
a human dealer to coordinate the game, including dealing, wagering,
folding, and the like. In "social" card games, especially poker,
the players take turns acting as the dealer, but in licensed
commercial gaming establishments, such as casinos, the dealer is
typically a non-playing employee. Unfortunately, traditional poker
is potentially prone to human dealer error. Moreover, human dealers
in casino type establishments must be trained and paid a salary
sufficient to retain them.
[0005] One alternative form of gaming, with particular reference to
poker, has flourished on the internet. Internet gaming has become
quite successful in that it provides many choices for the players.
In particular, internet gaming is fast and convenient, with
registration, betting and payouts available from almost any
computer with internet access and with payments typically arranged
via a credit card. Yet further, poker or other card games may also
be provided by stand-alone machines similar to slot machines.
[0006] One major drawback of internet and stand-alone type games is
the lack of the human element. Many people prefer to play poker
against other players face-to-face, because of the drama associated
with "live" gaming. Undoubtedly, an elevated level of competition
exists when people compete directly against one another and
face-to-face. In gaming establishments, experienced players are
trying to hone strategy and read other players' intentions through
their movements and style of play to be more competitive.
[0007] The prior art includes electronic card tables or games which
utilize virtual card and/or chips. As the complexity of such
systems increase, one issue raised is the ability to service the
system, i.e., provide diagnostics and/or trouble shooting.
[0008] The present invention is aimed at one or more of the
problems set forth above.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] In a first aspect of the present invention, a host console
for use with an electronic card table is provided. The electronic
card table has a playing surface, a plurality of electronic player
interaction areas located around a periphery of the table, and a
game computer. Each electronic player interaction area provides a
player interface for interaction with one of a plurality of
players. The game computer administering an electronic card game on
the table and is coupled to the plurality of electronic player
interaction areas. The host console includes a host display, a host
controller and a host controller. The host controller is coupled to
the host display and the host user interface for interrupting the
electronic card game in response to input from the host.
[0010] In a second aspect of the present invention a method for
providing information to a host related to an electronic card table
is provided. The electronic card table includes a plurality of
electronic player interaction areas and a game computer. Each
electronic player interaction area provides a player interface for
interaction with one of a plurality of players. The game computer
provides an electronic card game to the players. The method
includes the steps of providing a host console, coupled to the
electronic poker table, receiving information from the host via a
user interface of the host console, and interrupting the electronic
card game in response to input from the host.
[0011] In a fourth aspect of the present invention, a host console
for use with an electronic card table is provided. The electronic
card table has a playing surface, a plurality of electronic player
interaction areas located around a periphery of the table, and a
game computer. Each electronic player interaction area provides a
player interface for interaction with one of a plurality of
players. The game computer administers an electronic card game on
the table and is coupled to the plurality of electronic player
interaction areas. The host console includes a host display, a host
user interface, and a host controller. The host display displays
information to a host. The host user interface receives host input.
The host controller is coupled to the host display and the host
user interface for reserving an electronic player interaction area
in response to input from the host.
[0012] In a fifth aspect of the present invention, a method for
providing information to a host related to an electronic card table
is provided. The electronic card table includes a plurality of
electronic player interaction areas and a game computer. Each
electronic player interaction area provides a player interface for
interaction with one of a pluralities of players. The game computer
provides an electronic card game to the players. The method
includes the steps of providing a host console coupled to the
electronic poker table, receiving information from the host via a
user interface of the host console, reserving an electronic player
interaction area in response to input from the host.
[0013] In a fifth aspect of the present invention a host console
for use with an electronic card table is provided. The electronic
card table has a playing surface, a plurality of electronic player
interaction areas located around a periphery of the table, and a
game computer. Each electronic player interaction area provides a
player interface for interaction with one of a plurality of
players. The game computer administers an electronic card game on
the table and is coupled to the plurality of electronic player
interaction areas. The host console includes a host display, a host
user interface, and a host controller. The host display displays
information to a host. The host user interface receives host input.
The host controller is coupled to the host display and the host
user interface for penalizing one of the players by preventing the
player from participating in the electronic card game for a
specified period.
[0014] In a sixth aspect of the present invention, a method for
providing information to a host related to an electronic card table
is provided. The electronic card table includes a plurality of
electronic player interaction areas and a game computer. Each
electronic player interaction area provides a player interface for
interaction with one of a pluralities of players. The game computer
provides an electronic card game to the players. The method
includes the steps of providing a host console coupled to the
electronic poker table, receiving information from the host via a
user interface of the host console, and penalizing one of the
players by preventing the player from participating in the
electronic card game for a specified period.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0015] Other advantages of the present invention will be readily
appreciated as the same becomes better understood by reference to
the following detailed description when considered in connection
with the accompanying drawings wherein:
[0016] FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic illustration of a gaming system
embodying the present invention and in a casino environment;
[0017] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an electronic poker table of
the gaming system;
[0018] FIG. 3 is a top view of the electronic poker table of FIG.
2;
[0019] FIG. 4 is a front and back view of an electronic playing
card;
[0020] FIG. 5 is a plan view of a player interface of an electronic
player interaction area of the system with hole cards of the
electronic playing cards hidden;
[0021] FIG. 6 is a plan view of the player interface of FIG. 5 with
the hole cards revealed;
[0022] FIG. 7 is a partial block diagram of the gaming system
associated with one poker table;
[0023] FIG. 8 is a partial block diagram of the gaming system
associated with a plurality of poker tables;
[0024] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the electronic player
interaction area in a module form with headphones;
[0025] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a modified electronic
player interaction area embodied in a hand-held module with
headphones;
[0026] FIG. 11 is a block diagram of software components of the
gaming system;
[0027] FIG. 12 is a simplified block diagram of the gaming
system;
[0028] FIG. 13 is a block diagram of the gaming system with a host
console;
[0029] FIG. 14 is a flow diagram of a method of operating the
gaming system;
[0030] FIG. 15 is a first table tab image displayed on a video
screen of the host console;
[0031] FIG. 16 is a second table tab image displayed on the video
screen of the host console;
[0032] FIG. 17 is a third table tab image displayed on the video
screen of the host console;
[0033] FIG. 18 is a fourth table tab image displayed on the video
screen of the host console;
[0034] FIG. 19 is a fifth table tab image displayed on the video
screen of the host console;
[0035] FIG. 20 is a hand dialog displayed on the video screen of
the host console;
[0036] FIG. 21 is a minutes dialog displayed on the video screen of
the host console;
[0037] FIG. 22 is a sixth table tab image displayed on the video
screen of the host console;
[0038] FIG. 23 is a seventh table tab image displayed on the video
screen of the host console;
[0039] FIG. 24 is an eighth table tab image displayed on the video
screen of the host console;
[0040] FIG. 25 is a ninth table tab image displayed on the video
screen of the host console;
[0041] FIG. 26 is a tenth table tab image displayed on the video
screen of the host console;
[0042] FIG. 27 is an eleventh table tab image displayed on the
video screen of the host console;
[0043] FIG. 28 is a first wait list tab image displayed on the
video screen of the host console;
[0044] FIG. 29 is a twelfth table tab image displayed on the video
screen of the host console;
[0045] FIG. 30 is an account number dialog displayed on the video
screen of the host console;
[0046] FIG. 31 is a time limit dialog displayed on the video screen
of the host console;
[0047] FIG. 32 is a tournament chop page image displayed on the
video screen of the host console;
[0048] FIG. 33 is a menu allowing a host to make a selection of no
delay, minutes, or hands, according to an embodiment of the present
invention;
[0049] FIG. 34 is a keypad allowing a host to enter a number of
minutes, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0050] FIG. 35 is a keypad allowing a host to enter a number of
hands, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0051] FIG. 36 is a dialog related to a stop function, according to
an embodiment of the present invention, according to an embodiment
of the present invention;
[0052] FIG. 37 is a keypad allowing a host to enter a player card
number, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0053] FIG. 38 is a keypad allowing a host to enter a number of
minutes, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0054] FIG. 39 is a dialog related to a sitout function of the
present invention;
[0055] FIG. 40 is a dialog related to an unseat function of the
present invention;
[0056] FIG. 41 is a keypad allowing a host to enter a number of
penalty minutes;
[0057] FIG. 42 is a graphic related to a penalty function of the
present invention; and,
[0058] FIG. 43 is a keypad related to a penalty function of the
present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF INVENTION
[0059] In the illustrated embodiment and as best shown in FIGS.
1-4, an electronic gaming system 10 and method of operation
embodies the present invention. The system 10 utilizes electronic
cards 76 or electronic chips and electronic playing cards 76 to
provide an automated card game for play by one or more players. It
should be noted that the description that follows is directed
towards a gaming system 10 which utilizes electronic cards and
chips (for wagering). However, the system 10 may also provide a
non-wagering (without electronic chips) automated card game.
Preferably, a human dealer is not required, thus the system 10
handles all dealer functions. For the purposes of illustration, the
system will be described as applied to an electronic poker game
known as Texas Hold'em. However, the present invention is not
limited to any particular card game.
I. The Game
[0060] Referring to FIGS. 3-6, in Texas Hold'em, each player at an
electronic gaming or poker table 18 is electronically dealt a
number of cards, e.g., two cards, face down. These are known as a
player's "hole" cards 28 and are generally placed directly in front
of the respective players. A number of cards, e.g., three or five,
are dealt face-up and displayed in a common display area 26. These
are known as the common cards 30. A player's hand, thus, consists
of the player's hole cards 28 and the common cards 30. At the end
of play of a particular hand, whichever player holds the highest
poker hand is the winner of that round or hand of poker.
[0061] The electronic playing cards 76 may be used in any sort of
electronic card game, and even in such games where the player
chooses when to reveal their hole cards 28 to themselves or to the
other players. The electronic poker tables 18 are preferably
capable of playing any variety of card games. Each card game,
whether poker or otherwise, will generally have its own set of
rules, including the number of cards, how the cards are dealt, the
number of betting rounds, the structure of permissible wagers, and
the like. Thus, while the present invention may be described below
in the context of an electronic poker game (and more specifically,
with respect to a player's hole cards 28 in a Hold'em style poker
game), the present invention is not limited to such a card
game.
[0062] Furthermore, the poker or card game can be a timed game,
i.e., the player's have a predetermined time period to complete
each turn. For example, the player's have a set period of one
minute to complete each turn, or, the period of time may vary. For
instance, the first turn may have a period of completion of one
minute, while the second turn may have a shorter or longer period
of completion. During a given betting round, the players have a
predetermined period of time to either fold, check, or make a
wager. If no action is taken during the predetermined time period,
a default action is taken where the player preferably must fold or
check. Generally, the time period for response during a betting
round will decrease as the hand of the electronic poker game
progresses. Parameters, such as the predetermined time period for
each betting round may be automatically modified by the system
10.
[0063] More specific to the electronic playing cards 76, as best
shown in FIG. 4, each card has visual image or graphical
representation of a front side 76A and a back side 76B. The back
side 76B of each card 76 has an identical pattern or image such
that the cards cannot be individually identified with respect to
any other card when viewing the back side 76B. The electronic
playing card 76 is typically one of a set or deck of standard
playing cards. The deck may be a standard deck of fifty-two cards,
with each card having an individual designation. The designations
have a first component being assigned values of two through ACE,
and the second component being four groupings or suits (hearts,
diamonds, clubs, spades). The value and suit of each card is
indicated on the front side 76A of each playing card 76.
[0064] In a traditional card game with physical cards, the player's
hole cards are dealt "face-down" so that they are not revealed to
any other player. The dealt player must then discretely view their
own hole cards without revealing them to other players. To do this,
the player typically lifts the hole cards close to their bodies,
fanning them out, and shielding them with their hands, so only the
dealt player can see the front side of their cards. Alternatively,
the dealt player may leave the cards face down on the table and
lift one side or corner revealing at least a portion of the front
side, while shielding the cards with their hands. Similarly, and
with electronic hole cards 28 of cards 76 (as best shown in FIGS. 5
and 6), lifting of the corners of the cards 28 can be computer
simulated upon a triggering event initiated by the respective
player.
[0065] The image displayed on the back side 76B of the playing
cards may be a logo, a random image (chosen from a set of
predetermined images), or may be advertising directed at the
player. The image may include a video or a cycling through of a set
of predetermined images. Alternatively, the image may be selectable
by either a player or an employee of a casino 12.
II. The Casino
[0066] Referring to FIG. 1, the gaming system 10 is preferably
situated in a gaming environment, such as a casino 12. Typically,
the casino 12 is divided into specialized or designated areas such
as a poker room or poker area 14 each containing a plurality of
tables 18, or five tables as illustrated. The poker area 14 is
often cordoned off by, for example, a railing 16. While the casino
12 is one example of an environment for the gaming system 10, the
present invention is not limited to any such location or
environment and may also include a generally virtual casino
environment and the like.
III. The Table
[0067] Referring to FIGS. 2-3, each table 18 has a table top 20
supported by at least one base 42 at floor level, and a plurality
of substantially vertical legs 44 projecting between the base 42
and the table top 20. The table top 20 includes a playing surface
22 and a plurality of electronic player interaction areas (EPIA) 24
for in-part the display of the respective hole cards 28. Each table
18 seats a plurality of players, and for example and as
illustrated, is preferably capable of seating a maximum of ten
players, hence, each table includes ten EPIA's 24A-24J and ten
chairs 40 (see FIG. 1). For the game of Texas Hold'em, the table
top 20 also preferably includes one central or common display area
(CDA) 26 for the display of the common cards 30.
[0068] Although the EPIA's 24 and CDA 26 are generally computer
generated visual displays, thus authentic playing cards are not
utilized, the electronic poker tables of the gaming system 10 are
aesthetically designed to convey and retain the overall sense and
ambience of a standard poker room with non-electrical poker tables.
The playing surface area not taken up by the EPIA's 24 and the CDA
26 is preferably covered in a traditional material such as felt
having any variety of colors. Moreover, logos, game information, or
other information may be printed on the material. Alternatively,
the EPIA's 24 and the CDA 26 is a single display that covers a
substantial portion or all of the table top 20. The EPIA's 24 and
the CDA 26 can be set apart from the rest of the table top 20 by
virtual or computer generated borders. The areas of the display
around the EPIA's 24 and the CDA 26 are preferably used to simulate
the playing surface 22 of a standard poker table by, for example,
providing an electronic image of a felt material. Furthermore,
logos, game information, other information, advertisements,
announcements, pictures, videos, or other information may be
displayed and rotated, cycled, or shown for a limited period of
time on the table top 20.
IV. Electronic Player Interaction Areas
[0069] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 5-6, each EPIA 24 has a player
interface 54 used to convey game information directly to a player
assigned to the respective EPIA 24, and to effectuate interaction
or input from the player to the system 10. Each EPIA 24 can be part
of one large display monitor, such as a LCD or plasma monitor, that
includes the CDA 26, or the EPIA's preferably have separate and
distinct monitors and computers networked together as required to
play the game. The player interfaces 54 can be implemented on the
table top 20 or in a module 34 (see FIG. 9). Alternatively, the
player interface 54 may be implemented on a hand-held device 58,
such as a personal data assistant (see FIG. 10).
[0070] With reference to FIGS. 2 and 5-6, the player interface 54
of the EPIA 24 is preferably a touch-screen display. Each display
54 is preferably housed in respective modules 34. In one
embodiment, each module 34 incorporates a fully-functional computer
(not shown) and is thus easily removable and replaced from the
poker table 18. The computer includes a processor capable of
running an operating system, such as Windows XP or Windows CE, both
available from Microsoft Corporation of Redmond, Wash.
Alternatively, the EPIA's 24 may be driven by one or more computers
(not shown) located in the proximity of the table 18 with a server
or server computer 50 or within the table 18.
[0071] a) Card Reader and Player Account:
[0072] Referring to FIG. 9, the module 34 preferably has a card
reader 36 for reading a player tracking card (not shown). A player
may log into the gaming system 10 through the EPIA 24 preferably by
swiping the card through the card reader 36. Additionally, the card
reader 36 may be integrated into the bezel (not shown) located
around the module 34. The EPIA 24 may also require entry of a
personal identification number into an attached keypad or virtual
keypad displayed on the player interface 54. Alternatively or in
addition, the player may log-in using a biometric parameter, such
as a fingerprint, sensed by a sensor and a RFID card or chip. Once
a player's identity is established, the player can access a
preferably required player account and purchase chips using an
account balance communicated over a network. The player account may
have an associated balance that contains a dollar amount based on
an amount of money deposited by the player and/or any winnings that
they have collected, either through poker or some other game.
Additionally, information regarding the player's play at the table
18 may be tracked and recorded to the player's account.
[0073] In one aspect of the present invention, the gaming system 10
may utilize a cashless system, such as Ticket-In Ticket-Out (TITO),
that is constructed and arranged into each EPIA 24. Alternatively,
a preferably bar-coded ticket, magnetic card, RFID card, or some
other media (jointly referred to as a TICKET) may be inserted in
the EPIA 24. The TICKET may have an associated value that is either
printed and/or encoded thereon or that is associated with the
TICKET in the gaming system 10. Additionally, once the player
decides to leave the table 18, any remaining chips they have, may
be instantly converted back into dollars and stored in their player
account and/or a new Ticket preferably generated at the table
18.
[0074] b) Controller
[0075] A controller that is either the module 34, the personal
computer (not shown), the hand-held device 58, the server 50 or a
combination thereof, controls the player interface 54 (i.e.
controls the information components of the player interface 54),
detects touches if the player interface 54 is a touch-screen
display device, and interprets the touches as trigger or touch
events. The controller preferably controls the display device 54
including obscuring or hiding the player's hole cards 28 such that
the player may controllably display and view the cards, while
maintaining them secret from the other players.
[0076] c) Visual Player Interface
[0077] Referring to FIGS. 5-6, preferably the player interface 54
includes a graphical representation 56 of a poker table. Each
player in the poker game is represented by a user graphic or icon
62 that lists their names as well as their chip totals. The pot of
the current hand may be represented in the center of the poker
table representation 56 by stack(s) of chips 64 and/or a number 66
representing the value of the current pot. Each player's
contribution to the pot may be represented by stack(s) of chips 68
and/or a number 70 adjacent their user graphic 62.
[0078] In one embodiment, not only is the EPIA 24 capable of
controllably displaying and/or obscuring a player's hole cards, the
EPIA 24 is also capable of providing an indication of the player's
current highest hand based on the player's current hand and the
community cards 30. The highest hand may be shown textually, e.g.,
two-pairs, and/or graphically, pictures of the five cards which
make of the highest hand. The highest hand may be triggered and
shown using the same trigger event associated with the hole cards
28. Alternatively, a separate trigger event, such as a touch-event
on another location on the EPIA 24 may be used to show the highest
hand.
[0079] The player interface 54 preferably includes a series of
player buttons 72 and a series of game buttons 74. The player
buttons 72 include, for example, a sit-in button 72A, a leave table
button 72B, and an options button 72C. Generally, only one of the
sit in button 72A and the leave table button 72B would be active at
any time. The options button 72C allows the player to access an
option menu or screen (not shown) that allows the player to modify
certain parameters of the player interface 54, such as for example,
to choose between different formats of the player interface 54
(i.e. graphical display or text display). The player buttons 72 are
preferably implemented on the touch screen display 54, or
alternatively, can be embodied in electromechanical switches or
buttons (not shown).
[0080] Regarding the leave table button 72B, a player may decide to
activate this feature when the player decides to change seats or
move to another table altogether. For example, if another player or
players have left the table 18 leaving fewer players at the table
and the player does not like to play at a table with that few of
players, the player may request through the EPIA 24 another seat
assignment.
[0081] The series of game buttons 74 allow the player to signal
their game play decisions to the gaming system 10 during the play
of the game, and thus preferably include a fold button 74A, a call
button 74B and a raise button 74C. The game buttons 74 are active
when it is a player's turn in the poker game and preferably
inactive when it is not. Moreover, the EPIA 24 only activates those
buttons 74 that are appropriate, given the rules of the game being
played, during the current turn. For example, if the maximum number
of raises for a particular game has already been made, then the
wager or raise button would be inactive. The raise button 74C may
be replaced with one or more buttons (not shown) which allow the
player to make a wager of a predetermined or allowed amount, e.g.,
$10. In addition or alternatively, a keypad (not shown) may be
provided which allows the player to key in a wager amount.
[0082] Preferably, the EPIA 24 provides a player with virtual
buttons that summon or direct specific employees of the casino 12.
For example the player may request a host/hostess to order a drink.
Additionally, the player may anonymously request that an employee
review something that occurred or is occurring at the table 18
(e.g. possible collusion).
[0083] Preferably, the player interface 54 also displays the
community cards 30. Other information that can be displayed on the
player interface include, but is not limited to, an indication
(visual icon and/or audio) of the player whose turn it is to act, a
total of chips for each player, any cards of the other players that
are face-up, and/or messages to the player, such as
advertising.
[0084] Moreover, in the casino 12 environment, preferably a portion
of each pot goes to the house for running the poker game. This
portion of the pot is known as the rake and is preferably displayed
on each EPIA 24. The rake may be shown as an amount in dollars and
may include a graphical representation of virtual chips. Similarly,
the EPIA 24 preferably displays a graphical representation of the
chips and/or a dollar amount indicative of the amount of chips each
player at the table has remaining and the amount of the current
pot.
[0085] In addition, or alternatively, to the common cards 30
displayed by the CDA 26, each EPIA preferably includes a graphical
representation of the community cards in the middle of the
graphical representation 56 of the poker table 18. Graphical
representations of the other player's card may also be shown
(face-down during the current hand and face-up at the end of the
hand). The common card 30 displayed in the graphical representation
56 are preferably smaller than the display of the hole cards 28 for
the player of the specific EPIA 24. The display of the common cards
30 in the CDA 26 are preferably larger than the display of the
common cards 30 in the EPIA representation 56.
[0086] Other attributes of the EPIA's 24 may include: [0087]
utilization of Surface Acoustic Wave touch screen technology [0088]
utilization of Multi Touch touch screen technology [0089] a secure
process for returning a player to a game after missing a number of
blinds by pressing the button that temporarily removes the player
from the game [0090] method to obscure player pre-selection of one
or several bet options (Poker is a sequential game. Situations
exist where a player will know what action they want to take prior
to it being there turn. Allowing the player to make that decision
in advance of their turn in a way that allows players seating close
to observe this action would provide an unfair advantage to some
players and not others. This feature allows a player to make a
pre-selection while observing his hole cards in such a way that
other players will not be able to observe that pre-selection.),
[0091] ability to display live and pre-recorded video, and [0092]
ability to replay a previous hand (may be limited to showing the
end result of the last hand and may only be available for a short
period of time).
[0093] d) Audio Player Interface:
[0094] Preferably, the EPIA 24 includes a player sound generation
device that generates sounds audible to the player assigned to the
EPIA 24. The player sound generation device may be implemented as
an earpiece (60) or headphones (see FIGS. 9 and 10) or one or more
speakers. Player sounds are generally meant to be heard by a
specific player alone and may include a reminder or indication of a
player's turn or if the game is timed, an indication of the time
remaining or that time is running out, an audible signal indicating
the player's hole cards 28 or the highest hand of the player or a
winning percentage associated with the player's hand. The audio
signals or sounds can be any series of beeps, chimes, a simulated
voice, and the like.
[0095] e) Physical Structure of the EPIA:
[0096] As best illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3, the modules 34 are
removably mounted to the table top 20, and preferably such that the
touch-screen display 54 is substantially parallel and relatively
flush with the playing surface 22 of the table top 20. Moreover,
the playing surface 22 of the table top 20 can be an overlay with
selected cut-outs or openings for exposing the player interface or
touch-screen display 54. The overlay preferably covers the outer
edge of the display for aesthetic appearances. Moreover, the
touch-screen display 54 can be mounted at an angle with respect to
the table top 20 and below the playing surface 22 thus partially
shielding the player's hole cards 28 from adjacent players.
Similarly, the display 54 can be mounted at an angle with respect
to and above the table top 20 wherein the angle can be adjustable
for player viewing convenience.
V. Central Display Area and Audio
[0097] As best illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 5-6, the CDA 26 is used
to display information such as common cards 30 for all players to
see and is thus located further from the players than their
respective EPIA's 24. Consequently, the display of the common cards
30 is preferably larger than the display of the hole cards 28. That
is, the hole cards 28 are displayed at a first predetermined ratio
from the standard size playing card, and the common cards 30 are
displayed at a second predetermined ratio from the standard size
playing card. Preferably, the first and second ratios may be
defined such that the common cards 30 are displayed larger than the
hole cards 28. Alternatively, the first and second ratios can be
the same.
[0098] As previously described, the CDA 26 is preferably separate
from the plurality of EPIA's 24, and is implemented preferably
utilizing a LCD or plasma monitor or similar device. The CDA 26
preferably indicates which player's turn it is and which player is
the designated "dealer" for the current hand. These indications are
provided by respective visual signals such as an icon, arrow or the
like, and/or an audio signal such as a beep, musical tone, and/or
voice message. This indication of a player's turn and dealer
designation CDA 26 can also be in addition to the indication
provided on the respective EPIA 24. With audio indication, the CDA
26 can utilize integrated "transducer sound emitting technology"
thus eliminating the need for separate speakers.
[0099] In other card games other than Texas Hold'em, community
cards 30 may not exist, hence, during play of these games, the CDA
26 can be used to display advertising messages instead. The
advertising messages may be from the casino or third parties and
may consist of graphics, pictures, animations, video and/or audio.
The advertising may be presented at predetermined locations on the
central display 38 for varied durations as the CDA cycles through a
plurality of advertising messages.
[0100] In general, the CDA 26 is preferably capable of displaying
and/or animating: [0101] blinds, [0102] community cards 30, [0103]
bets placed and player chip stacks, [0104] an indication of players
who have folded and not folded, [0105] winning hands, [0106] wining
hand percentage estimates in situations where all remaining player
hold cards are exposed, and [0107] rake in dollars or virtual
chips.
[0108] Preferably, the gaming table 18 includes a table or system
sound generation device (as oppose to the player sound generation
device previously described) that is used to generate sounds
audible to all the players. The table sound generation device may
be implemented by one or more speakers mounted to the table 18.
Alternatively, the table sound generation device may include one or
more speakers adjacent to or integral with each EPIA 24 as
previously described. For example, system sounds may include sounds
imitating the shuffling of cards, the dealing of cards, chips
thrown into the pot, sounds related to the winning of the jackpot.
Player sounds may include a reminder or indication of a player's
turn or if the game is timed, an indication of the time remaining
or that time is running out. Generally, player exclusive sounds
will not be played through the system sound generation device.
VI. Server Computer
[0109] As best illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 8, each EPIA 24, in the
illustrated embodiment, preferably includes a dedicated computer
(not shown), and the CDA 26 has a dedicated computer 52. Both the
EPIA computer and the CDA computer 52 for any given table 18
communicate with the server computer 50 that preferably
plays/controls the card game, and preferably over an Ethernet
network 48. The same server 50 communicates or is networked in a
like manner to preferably all of the tables 18. One skilled in the
art would now know that more than one EPIA 24 could operate off of
one computer or that the computer 52 for the CDA 26 could also
control the EPIA's 24 and/or replace the server 50 altogether.
However, having a multitude of dedicated computers simplifies
software and maintenance issues and due to the relatively
inexpensive costs of computers, reduces manufacturing costs of the
gaming system 10.
[0110] The server 50 is preferably used to implement and facilitate
player tracking, ticket in ticket out (cashless) wagering,
assigning player's to the seat 40 at a particular table 18,
tournament play, table set-up (including turning the tables on and
off and modifying table parameters), and progressive jackpots. In
general, the server 50 runs the game wherein the server 50
electronically "shuffles" the playing cards, deals the cards,
controls the players' turns, receives the player's inputs and acts
accordingly; tracks, manages, and awards the pot, and tracks the
rake. Game data is stored in a database preferably of the server 50
with each input, wager, play, and the like stored in the database.
Other functions implemented by the server 50 are: [0111]
electronically shuffling the playing cards 76 [0112] dealing cards,
[0113] controlling players' turns, [0114] receives the player's
data input, [0115] player tracking, [0116] cashless wagering,
[0117] defining and modifying table parameters, including, turning
the tables 18 on and off, setting the poker game being played at
the table 18, setting wager parameters, and the like, [0118]
defining and managing jackpots, including the house percentage or
rake, [0119] defining and managing progressive jackpots, [0120]
establishing and managing a queue for players and assigning players
to seats 40 and/or specific tables 18 from the queue, and [0121]
establishing and managing tournament play, including assigning
player seats, collapsing tables, and the like.
[0122] In addition, other devices may be connected to the server 50
for providing additional features and/or functions. For example, a
queuing system can be provided utilizing its own dedicated
computer. However, in some systems these additional features or
function could be provided, at least in part, by the server(s)
50.
VII. Host Console
[0123] With particular reference to FIGS. 7-8 and 13, the system 10
preferably has a host console 102 in electrical communication with
the server computer 50 for configuring the EPIA's 24 and/or the CDA
26 and for establishing parameters of the electronic poker game.
Preferably, the host console 102 is embodied in a separate
computer, such as a personal computer, connected or networked
(wired or wirelessly) to the server computer 50. The host console
102 may be integrated into a console, such as a kiosk. The host
console 102 may also be embodied in any type of suitable device,
such as a handheld computer, a personal digital assistant (PDA),
notebook or laptop computer, or tablet computer. Preferably, the
host console 102 provides interaction with a host or floor manager
of the casino 12 via a host interface 120 of the host console 120
that is preferably a touch-screen similar to the player interface
54.
[0124] In general, the host console 102 is an administration device
that can be used to create and edit game profiles including setting
the game type, limits, play timing, and/or number of required
players. The host console 102 allows the host or casino employee to
start, pause, and stop games and to monitor table play. Additional
electronic tables 18 can be activated or opened, and ring or
tournament games (see below) can be easily started. Preferably, the
host console 102 provides the ability to turn any one or all of the
poker tables 18 on and off by communicating with the EPIA computers
and CDA computer 52 via the server 50.
[0125] The host console 102 may enable a casino employee or host
to: [0126] select or change one of the plurality of poker games to
be played on one or more of the electronic poker tables 18, [0127]
select the betting or wager structure to be used, (For example, the
poker games may have one of a limit, no-limit, or pot-limit
wagering structure. The host console 102 enables the employee set
the wagering structure for a given electronic poker table 18.)
[0128] select or change other parameters of the electronic poker
games, including, but not limited to time parameters, wager limits,
amounts associated with a big blind and a little blind, [0129]
select whether the electronic poker game is a timed game or a
non-timed game, [0130] modify the predetermined time period for
each betting round in a timed game, [0131] monitor the number of
drinks ordered by a player through the EPIA 24, [0132] add notes
with information related to a specific player, [0133] initiate a
replay of a previous hand graphically, textually or numerically,
[0134] lock out and remove one of the players from the electronic
poker table 18, [0135] adjust the stack of electronic chips for one
or more of the players (Possibly for correcting any deficiencies
and/or settle any disputes with regard to operation of the
electronic poker table 18 or play of one of the other players)
[0136] Other functions may be provided by the host console 102. For
example, as discussed above, players may be assigned to one of the
EPIAs 24. The system 10 may require that the assigned player log-in
to the assigned EPIA 24. The system 10, possibly through the host
console 102 or the server computer 50 allows the host to define a
trigger event based on a particular player. The host console 102
may monitor the players who log on, and produce a signal if a
designated player logs on. Thus, an employee, in response to the
signal is aware that the designated player is currently located and
playing at the respective EPIA 24.
[0137] The host console 102 is preferably used to monitor play at
any one of the electronic poker tables 18 and establishes a value
associated with the rate of play of hands at the associated table
18. This may be done by establishing when a hand of the electronic
poker game is dealt and the time a winner is determined and the pot
awarded to the winner. If the rate of play of hands is below a
predetermined value, then the employee via the host console 102 can
be signaled via a message or alert (audio and/or visual) on the
host console 102. In response, the host may wish to observe play at
the electronic poker table 18.
[0138] Additionally, the host console 102 allows the casino host to
pause play at one of the electronic poker tables 18, for example,
to allow the host to discuss any issues any of the players have
with regard to the electronic poker game and/or one of the other
players. The employee may re-start the electronic poker game when
finished. In another aspect of the present invention, the host
console 102 may allow the host to restart the electronic poker
table 18 after a fault or fault condition. For example, the host
console 102 may allow the host to restart the EPIA's 24 and/or the
CDA 26. Additionally if the EPIA's 24 include a separate computer
or a separate computer is provided to drive the central display
area 36, the host console 102 may be adapted to restart or reboot
these computers.
[0139] Preferably, a player may create an alert to the host console
102 through their EPIA 24. The alert may be anonymous, and is a
request for the host to come and observe a table 18. The alert
appears on the host console 102. If the alert is anonymous, there
will be no indication of which player created the alert on the host
console 102. Preferably, the host console 102 enables the host to
"hibernate" a game. This may be used for example, to pause a game
until the next day. A hibernated game may be re-started at the same
or any other table.
[0140] Referring to FIG. 15, the host console 102 is programmed
with two main sections referred to on the touch screen 120 of the
host console 102 as a table tab 122 and a wait list tab 124. When
activating or booting-up the host console 102, or when the host
selects the table tab 122 if the console is already activated, a
default or home screen of the system 10 generally depicts
graphically the tables 18 as table representations 180 (see FIG.
18). This depiction generally marks the beginning of all the table
pages 128 generally programmed under the table tab 122 option.
Selection of the wait list tab 124 displays a wait list page 128
(see FIG. 28). Each one of the pages 126, 128 on the touch-screen
120 provides a multitude of options for the host to select. When
selected, the home pages 126, 128 will generally change the display
configuration providing additional information for the host and
often additional options to choose from. For the sake of
explanation, and although each page 126, 128 may have a multitude
of screen displays, all the screen displays with respect to the
table tab 122 will be referred to as one common table page 126.
Similarly, each screen with respect to the wait list tab 124 will
be referred to as one common wait list page 128.
[0141] With particular reference to FIG. 15, each table 18 may be
selected and diagnostic information and options are shown on the
table page 126 that includes a table component list 130, a
component parameter list 132, a reset button 134, a restart
software button 136, a reboot button 138, a calibrate screen button
140, a back button 142, and a refresh button 144. Because the table
page 126 is preferably one of many screen displays linked to that
illustrated in FIG. 15, the back and refresh buttons 142, 144
provide the host with the ability to generally scroll through
various screen displays of the table page 126 such as that also
illustrated in FIGS. 16 and 17.
[0142] The table component list 130 includes a list of all
components of the selected table 18, each personal computer 50
(i.e., the "Table Client") and each module 34 (i.e., the individual
seats). Table Client 2 is a backup to Table Client 1 and is
optional. Selection of one of the components of the table 18 in the
table component list 130 displays information regarding the
selected component in the component parameter list 132.
[0143] The able component list parameter list 132 preferably
includes a: [0144] 1. Description Field (e.g., "Table 13, Seat 4");
[0145] 2. Client Type Field (e.g., Player or Table); [0146] 3.
Client Status: (Active or Inactive); [0147] 4. Connection Status:
(Connected or Disconnected); [0148] 5. Seat Number (where
appropriate); [0149] 6. Seat Status (e.g., Open, Reserved, Active);
[0150] 7. Player Name (when available); and, [0151] 8. Player
Status (e.g., Active or In-Active).
[0152] The reset connection button 134 is active when the
connection between the server computer 50 and the component
selected in the component list 130 is disconnected. Selection of
the reset connection 134 may be used to "ping" the selected
component and attempt to restart the connection therebetween. The
restart software button 136 may be used to restart the software on
the selected component if the component is inactive. For example,
either the client software or the operating software may be
restarted, i.e., a soft reboot. The reboot hardware button 138 may
be used to restart the selected component, i.e., turn off the
selected component and turn the selected component back on.
[0153] Because the player interface 54 of the EPIA 24 is preferably
a touch-screen display, it requires running of a calibration
routine for first time use and periodic calibration routine re-runs
thereafter. The selection of the calibrate screen button 140 will
run the calibration routine for the selected EPIA 24. Selection of
the back button 142 will return the screen 120 to a previous state
or view. Selection of the refresh button 144 will refresh all of
the information contained on the current screen.
[0154] The table page 126 also includes a stop/pause parameter
selection area 146, a move game button 148, a pause game button
150, a stop game button 152, an auto deal check button 154, a
closed seating check button 156, a use wait list check button 158,
an information/status area, a pair of navigation buttons, and a
clear alert button 164. The stop/pause parameter selection area
146, located toward the lower left hand corner of the screen, is
used with either of the pause game button 156 or the stop game
button 158 if the host wants to pause a game or electronic table 18
to make a change or perform some other function. The stop/pause
parameter selection area 146 includes the three options of "No
Delay," "Minutes," and "Hands." The game or table will be resumed
when the host is finished. A stopped game ends the play at the
table typically at the end of the day.
[0155] In the lower right hand corner of the screen illustrated in
FIG. 15, the auto deal check button 154, the closed seating check
button 156, and the use wait list check button 158 are used to turn
on/off the corresponding function. The information/status area 160
provides additional information about the selected component or a
just completed action. The navigation buttons 162 may be used to
cross between messages in the information/status area 160. The
clear alert button 164 is used to clear alerts generated by players
at their respective EPIA's 24A-24J.
[0156] Referring to FIG. 16, the table page 126 displays the game
history of a selected table of the plurality of tables 18A-18J
preferably displayed in a list 166. The list 166 includes a line
item for each action that has occurred on the selected table with a
time stamp.
[0157] Referring to FIG. 17, the table page 126 also displays
information regarding the game being played at the selected table
of the plurality of tables 18A-18J. Preferably, the tables 18A-18J
are used to provide a variety of electronic card games, such as
poker, and the host console 102 provides a list of the predefined
or selected card games. When providing game information, the table
page 126 preferably has a general section 168, a game play section
170, a rake section 172, and a live action setting section 174. The
general section 168 includes the current game and a description of
the current game being played on the selected table of the
plurality of tables 18A-18J and any other needed information
associated with the current game. In FIG. 17, the selected game is
"Limit Hold'em $1/$2". The general section 168 includes: type,
variation, stakes, and jackpots. The game play section 170
describes parameters that affect game play. In the illustrated
embodiment, the game play section 170 includes: maximum raises per
hand, action time limit, minimum number of players, and maximum
number of players. The rake section 172 includes information
regarding the current rake. The live action section 174 includes
information regarding wagering. For example, the defined game is
"Limit Hold'em $1/$2" and the live action section 174 includes
information related to the blinds, permissible wagers, and the
minimum and maximum stakes allowed.
[0158] Referring to FIG. 18, the seven table representations
180A-80G of the table page 126 is illustrated and preferably
includes: [0159] 1. The name of the table shown; [0160] 2. The game
being played at the table (e.g., Limit Hold'em $1/$2 or no game);
[0161] 3. The number of hands being played per hour.
[0162] Each graphical table representation 180A-180G may also
include the status of each EPIA 24, for example inactive (indicated
by a red "X" or marked as "No Game"), active, reserved or out. A
reserved EPIA 24 or seat, means that it has been assigned to a
player and can only be used by that player. The player must log in
to the reserved or assigned EPIA 24 to begin playing. Typically,
the player has a predetermined amount of time to log-in to the
assigned EPIA 24 or the seat 40 becomes available again.
[0163] Referring to FIG. 26 and more particularly to pausing and/or
stopping a game via the host console 102, the stop/pause parameter
selection area 146 is used to select how the game will be stopped
or paused. To do so, there are three options: "no delay," "by
minutes," and "by hands." If "no delay" is first selected, then if
the pause button 150 or the stop game button 152 is selected, the
game is immediately paused or stopped, respectively. Once a game
has been paused, the pause button 150 will be replaced with a
resume button 150'. Alternatively, if "by minutes" is selected,
then a minute dialog 184 is displayed (see FIG. 21). The minute
dialog 184 allows the host to enter when the game will be paused or
stopped (in minutes) after the appropriate buttons are selected.
Yet again, if "by hands" is selected, then a hands dialog 186 is
displayed (see FIG. 20). The hands dialog 186 allows the host to
enter when the game will be paused or stopped (in number of hands
of play) after the appropriate buttons are selected.
[0164] Referring to FIG. 19, and more particular to the present
invention, the gaming system 10 via the host console 102 has the
capability to move a game in mid-play from one table 18 to another
previously inactive table. When an electronic game is so moved, the
game in it's current state along with the players are relocated in
their totality from one electronic table to another. Preferably,
the seating arrangement of the players remain the same when moving
games in mid-play between tables.
[0165] As best illustrated in FIGS. 22-25, each table
representation 180A-180G of the tables 18 can generally be zoomed
in upon to display additional or more particular information. The
screen 120 has a zoom button 188 and a second set of navigation
buttons 190. With particular reference to FIG. 22, with the
graphical table representations 180 being displayed, a selected
table is highlighted by a colored or yellow banding 182. The
navigation buttons 190 may be used to cycle or move through the
table representations 180. To zoom in on a table representation 180
of a table 18, the host preferably double-clicks on the desired
table representation 180 or selects the zoom button 188 to zoom in
on the selected table representation 180.
[0166] Referring to FIG. 23, once a table representation is zoomed
in on, the table page 126 displays a larger and more detailed
graphical table representation or table enlargement 192. The table
enlargement 192 has a central information area 192A and a plurality
of player information areas 192B. The central information area 192A
generally includes information about the actual table 18, which may
include: table identifier, status, game type, pending status,
average pot, hands per hour, average wait time to get a seat at the
table, and a start time of the current game. The player information
areas 192B generally include the seat number, the status (reserved,
occupied, etc), player name (where appropriate), the player's
stake, the player's wins/losses for the current game, and the time
player entered the current game.
[0167] Referring to FIG. 29, the table page 126 preferably includes
a reserve (or reserve for player) button 194, a game info button
198, a history button 200 and a diagnostics button 202. Selection
of the game info button 198, the history button 200, and the
diagnostics button 202, will result in game information, history
information, and diagnostics information being displayed. As shown
in FIGS. 29-31, the table page 126 may also include a reserve empty
button 204, an unseat button 206, and a penalize button 208. The
reserve empty button 204 may be used to reserve a seat without
designative a specific person. The unseat button 206 may be used to
remove a player. The penalize button 208 may be used to adjust a
player's stack or otherwise penalize a player. An adjust pot button
230 may be used to adjust the pot of the current hand.
[0168] The reserve button 194 allows the host via utilization of
the host console 102 to reserve a seat 40 for a specific player. In
order to use this button, the use wait list check box has to be off
and the restricted seating check box has to checked. This allows
the host to place the specific player ahead of those players on the
wait list, while not opening the seat 40 to anyone who may attempt
to log-in or use the unoccupied seat. When the reserve button 194
is selected, an account number dialog 210 is displayed (see FIG.
30). The account number dialog 210 allows the host to enter the
account number of the person for whom they are reserving the seat
40. After the account number has been entered, a time limit dialog
212 is shown. The time limit dialog 212 (see FIG. 31) allows the
host to designate how long the reservation will last before the
player logs into the EPIA 24 to secure the seat 40. Once a seat has
been reserved, the reservation and the player's name will be
reflected at the corresponding graphical representation (see FIG.
29 that shows seat 7 reserved for "Greg").
[0169] Typically, a player who has left the table to take or break
or for any reason may return as long as they pay any missed blinds.
However, the other players may want another player to sit in. The
unseat button 206 allows the host to remove a player from the table
after the player has left their seat for an amount of time or a
number of hands (without logging out).
[0170] With particular reference to FIG. 27, the screen 120
includes a drop down list 214. The drop down list 214 includes a
list of all games which may be played on the tables 18. Selecting
"all" on the drop down list will display graphical representations
of all of the tables 18. Selecting one of the games in the drop
down list 214 will display graphical representations of only those
tables which are playing that selected game.
[0171] With particular reference to FIG. 28, the wait list page 128
includes an information section 216 for each type of game that may
be played on the tables 18. Each information section 216 includes
information related to the game and the wait list for that game. In
the illustrated embodiment, the information section includes:
[0172] 1. the number of tables playing the game; [0173] 2. the
number of players sat in a given interval; and, [0174] 3. the
number of players in the queue (i.e., the wait list).
[0175] The information section 216 may also include a queue active
check box and an allow entry check box, which allow the employee to
turn the wait list on/off for given game and to allow/disallow
additional players to be added to the wait list for a given game,
respectively.
[0176] With particular reference to FIG. 32, a tournament chop page
218 is illustrated which is used only during tournaments and allows
the host to stop tournament play prematurely, i.e., before only one
player is left, and split the remaining pot or table stakes. The
tournament chop page 218 includes a series of check boxes 220 that
allow the host to designate how the pot or jackpot will be split.
In the illustrated embodiment, there are three options: split
manually, split even, or split by table stakes. If split manually
is chosen, the corresponding amounts are entered in a virtual key
pad 222. The tournament chop page 218 may also include a refund
rake check box 224. A cancel button 224 allows the employee to
cancel the current operation and return to a previous screen. A
stop & chop now button 226 stops the current tournament and
splits the pot as designated.
[0177] Additional features of the host console 102 are described in
the following concurrently filed U.S. Patent Applications all of
which are herein incorporated by reference in their entirety:
[0178] U.S. patent application Ser. No. N/A (Atty. Docket No.
60,667-062); [0179] U.S. patent application Ser. No. N/A (Atty.
Docket No. 60,667-063); [0180] U.S. patent application Ser. No. N/A
(Atty. Docket No. 60,667-064); [0181] U.S. patent application Ser.
No. N/A (Atty. Docket No. 60,667-065); [0182] U.S. patent
application Ser. No. N/A (Atty. Docket No. 60,667-066); and, [0183]
U.S. patent application Ser. No. N/A (Atty. Docket No. 60,667-067).
VIII. General Process and Software
[0184] With particular reference to FIG. 14, in another aspect of
the present invention, a method 110 provides an electronic poker
game to a plurality of players on at the electronic poker table 18
using the host console 102 and the server computer 50. In a first
step 112, the host console 102 preferably configures the EPIA's 24
and the central display area 26 and establishes parameters of the
electronic poker game. In a second step 114, the electronic poker
game is administered by the server computer 50 using electronic
cards and chips.
[0185] In operation, the gaming system 10 will implement a
player-account based cash in/cash out system. The system 10 will
create a user account for each player. Once an account is
established for the player, the player is issued a Player Card
having an associated personal identification number or PIN. Once
the player has been issued a Player Card, their account may be
funded. The Player Card is used to identify the player at the
tables 18. The player may fund their account by bringing cash to a
cage, where the cash is accepted and credited to the player's
account. Printed receipts are given to the player and maintained by
the casino 12. To bring electronic chips to the table 18, the
player sits down at a seat 40, swipes their Player Card and enters
their PIN. The system 10 informs the player of their account
balance and allows them to convert all or a portion of the account
balance to electronic chips to bring to the game.
[0186] From a software perspective, the gaming system 10 may be
implemented using six program groups: a table server, a game
engine, a table client, a player client, a table manager, and a
cage manager. The table server implements the network
communication, control and authentication as well as inter-table
functions (seat reservations, multi-table tournaments). The game
engine is responsible for all game functions, e.g., electronic
playing card deck generation, dealing, betting, determining winners
and awarding pots. The table client is the graphical control for
the CDA 26. The player client implements the user interface for the
EPIA 24 and the logic for capturing player input and communication
the player input to the table client server. The table manager
contains the host interface for setting user, network, and game
parameters, for starting, pausing, and stopping games, and for
monitoring game activity and responding to system or user generated
alerts. The cage manager provides the ability to create and fund
player accounts and to create the Player Cards.
[0187] If there are no seats 40 available, the player is placed in
a queue, until a seat opens up. In one embodiment, players are
taken off of the queue and assigned a seat on a first come, first
served basis. However, the system 10 may allow the casino 12 to
implement special rules for players to bypass the queue or list.
For example, the casino may present vouchers to players under
certain conditions, such as a win in a tournament, to be placed at
the head of a queue.
[0188] In one aspect of the present invention and as stated above,
the system 10 tracks each transaction, wager, card dealt in a
database. The system 10 also tracks the players which are playing
at each table 18. This information is stored in the database,
summarized, and may be presented in any numerous forms of reporting
formats. Any information regarding the player's, the games, and how
each hand is played may be tracked. This available data may also be
analyzed for purposes of determining the frequency of poker hands
(per hour) for a table or all games in which a particular player or
players played or detecting, e.g., collusion between players.
[0189] The system 10 allows jackpots, i.e., progressive jackpots,
to be generated by and won across multiple hands and/or multiple
tables. A progressive jackpot may increase based on the amounts
wagered and/or won at the included tables. The progressive jackpot
may continue to increase until won under a set of predetermined
conditions. Alternatively, it may be active until only for a
predetermined time period. The conditions for winning the jackpot
that it is won by one or more players at the end of the time
period.
[0190] The system 10 allows a progressive jackpot to be funded in
multiple ways. The way in which a progressive jackpot is funded may
be funded through a computer program application on the server 50
or other device. For example, the progressive jackpot may be funded
by taking a set percentage from every jackpot, every other jackpot,
or every n.sup.th jackpot. The amount of the progressive jackpot
may be displayed on the CDA 26 and/or a remote display.
[0191] The progressive jackpot may be initiated randomly, under
certain definable conditions, and/or for a specific event, i.e., a
marketing event. The progressive jackpot may be a single hand, a
predetermined number of hands at one table or across multiple
hands, for a predetermined time period, and the like.
[0192] Preferably, after a jackpot is won by a player, one or more
government reporting forms may be presented to the player on their
EPIA 24. The form may accept the player's electronic signature (if
permissible) or may notify the player of the requirements and
direct them to a location where they can fill out the form. The
device may be a personal, notebook, or tablet computer, handheld
computer, PDA, or other suitable device.
IX. Tournament Play
[0193] The system 10 facilitates tournament play. In a tournament,
a predetermined number of tables 18 having a predetermined number
of players are involved. A buy-in, e.g., $100 is required.
Typically, after a player loses all of their money, they are
eliminated from the tournament.
[0194] Under predetermined rules, players may register for a
tournament and be assigned to seats at a table. During play, under
predetermined rules, tables may be broken down and the players
distributed to other tables. The system 10 facilitates the
tournament by providing one or more of the following features:
[0195] a) registration [0196] b) tracking tournament information
[0197] c) display of tournament information on central display
and/or remote display [0198] d) tournament set-up, e.g., buy-in
[0199] e) re buy-in [0200] f) tournament jackpot, cash or entry
voucher for entry another tournament (specific tournament or
expiration date) [0201] g) Process for breaking tables: [0202] (1)
message that table is breaking [0203] (2) convey new seat
assignment [0204] (3) determination of breaking order [0205] (4)
display of breaking order [0206] h) display information on status
of other tables and players at other tables [0207] i) System to
monitor and adjust hands per hour of an individual table during a
tournament: During a poker tournament it is important that each
table play roughly the same number of hands per hour as all other
tables. This can be accomplished by pausing a game and/or slowing a
game down with out pausing. [0208] j) multi-site tournaments [0209]
k) system for automatically paying players tournament winnings
based on tournament pay tables and their final position in the
tournament [0210] l) automatic posting of blinds and method to turn
on and off of automatic posting of blinds/missed blinds [0211] m)
method for automatically calculating allowed bet amounts in
pot-limit and no-limit betting structures [0212] n) automatic
varying of rake based upon number of players, time of day, type of
game and/or other criteria [0213] o) ability to offer rake
discounts to individual players [0214] p) transferring a player
from one seat to another at the same table, or to another:
Situations exist where are forced to ("must move") or desire to
move seats. This feature provides automatic notification and
movement of player information from one seat to another. [0215] q)
database and network architecture allowing single and multi-site
networking and management of a plurality of automated poker [0216]
r) tracking and reporting of player statistics: Data and method of
display over the internet and/or other methods for player to
analyze their previous play statistics. In another embodiment date
and method of display is utilized to determine player rankings for
a given game and/or over a given time period [0217] s) ability to
view available tables and register for live tables and/or
tournaments via a remote connection such as the internet or an
automated voice response unit [0218] t) options adjust speed of
play (speed of card shuffling, dealing, discarding, betting, etc.)
[0219] u) electronically transfer money from an account to the
table [0220] v) electronically transfer money to another [0221] w)
use of "cash card" to bring money to the table [0222] x) ability
for operator to view details of any and all tables [0223] y)
ability for operator to view details of any and all players X.
Virtual Gaming
[0224] In one aspect of the present invention, remote or virtual
games may be provided by the system 10. The remote or virtual games
may be provided on wireless devices and may be played at
predetermined locations.
[0225] Virtual games may also be provided through the EPIAs 24. For
example, the virtual or remote games may be played by the poker
players when it is not their turn. The virtual or remote games may
be another poker hand, played against other players, at the table
or at other tables, or played against virtual players.
Alternatively, the remote or virtual games may be other types of
games, including, but not limited to blackjack, keno, slot
machines, and the like.
[0226] In addition to running other casino games on EPIA 24 or
other terminals, system can be run on other gaming devices
throughout the casino. For example, a virtual poker game can be run
on an existing electronic bingo terminal or an electronic race book
terminal.
XI. Pausing or Stopping a Game
[0227] In one aspect of the present invention, the host console 102
allows a user of the host console 102 (or host) to interrupt the
electronic card game. In one embodiment of the present invention,
interrupting the electronic card means either pausing or stopping
the card game. Pausing the electronic card game is temporary, i.e.,
the game can be resumed. A stopped game cannot resumed.
[0228] The host may indicate that the game is to be stopped or
paused through input on the host console 102. In one embodiment,
pausing of the game may be initiated through actuation of the pause
game button 150. After a game has been paused, it may be resumed
through actuation of the resume button 150'.
[0229] In one embodiment, after the pause or stop game buttons 150,
152 are actuated the game may be automatically paused or stopped.
Alternatively, the game may be pause or stopped after a
predetermined number of minutes or hands of the game.
[0230] In another embodiment, the host may choose whether to
immediately interrupt the game or to interrupt the game after a
predetermined or specified number of minutes or hands.
[0231] With specific reference to FIG. 33, in the illustrated
embodiment upon actuation of the pause or stop game buttons 150,
152, a menu 300 is displayed. The menu 300 includes a no delay item
302, a minutes item 304, and a hands item 306. If the host selects
no delay 302, the game is immediately interrupted (paused or
stopped). If the host selects minutes 304, then a keypad 308 is
displayed which allows the host to enter a number of minutes after
which the game will be interrupted. Appropriate alerts messages may
be sent to the electronic player interaction areas 24 and/or
central display area 26. If the host selects hands 306, then a
keypad 310 is displayed which allows the host to enter a number of
hands of the game after which the game will be interrupted.
[0232] With specific reference to FIG. 36, since a stopped game
cannot be resumed, the host is asked to confirm that the current
game is to be stopped via a dialog 312. The dialog 312 include a no
button 314 and a yes button 316. Actuation of the no button 314
dismisses the action and actuation of the yes button 316 will stop
the game.
[0233] In tournaments, in one embodiment, games can be only be
interrupted with no delay.
[0234] One a game has been set up to be paused or stopped in a
number of minutes or number of hands, the action cannot be
cancelled. However, the number of minutes or hands may be increased
or decreased. In the case the game has been scheduled to be paused,
the game may be manually resumed.
[0235] Reserving a Seat
[0236] In another aspect of the present invention, the host may
reserve a seat, i.e., an electronic player interaction area 24 for
a player. The seat may be reserved either with a name (for a
specific player) or without a name.
[0237] If the seat has been reserved for a specific player, the
host may enter the player identification or card number via a key
pad 318.
[0238] Once a seat or electronic player interaction area 24 has
been reserved, its status is changed from open to reserved.
Generally, a player must logon to the reserved electronic player
interaction area prior to playing the game. In one embodiment, the
player must logon to the reserved electronic player interaction
area within a specified time period or the status changes back to
open.
[0239] In one embodiment, the specified time period is set or
predetermined. In another embodiment, the host may enter the time
period on a keypad 320.
XII. Sitting Out, Unseating, or Penalizing a Player
[0240] In one embodiment, the host may need to "sit out" a player
using the host console if the player leaves the table, but does not
sit out themselves. To sit out a player, the host may select a fold
or sit out button (not shown) on the host console 102. With
specific reference to FIG. 39, the host is asked to confirm that
they want to sit out the player via a dialog 322. The dialog 322
includes a no button 324 and a yes button 326. Actuation of the no
button 324 dismisses the dialog 324 and the action and actuation of
the yes button 326 sit outs the player (and fold if currently in a
hand). This changes the step of the electronic player interaction
area 24 from occupied to sitting out.
[0241] In another embodiment, the host may need to "unseat" a
player using the host console if the player leaves the table
without quitting (and logging out). This may usually be done at the
request of the other players and/or after a predetermined or
sufficient time period passes. To unseat a player, the host may
select an unseat or logoff button (not shown) on the host console
102. With specific reference to FIG. 40, the host is asked to
confirm that they want to unseat the player via a dialog 328. The
dialog 328 includes a no button 330 and a yes button 332. Actuation
of the no button 328 dismisses the dialog 328 and the action and
actuation of the yes button 332 unseats the player (and logs them
off the electronic player interaction area 24).
[0242] In another aspect of the present invention, the host console
102 allows the host to penalize a player, typically, for bad
behavior. In one embodiment, the host may penalize the player by
preventing the player from participating in the electronic card
game for a specified period which may be defined as a period of
time or a number of hands.
[0243] In one embodiment, the specified period may be predetermined
or may be determined by the host.
[0244] In one embodiment, the host may initiate the penalty by
actuation the penalize button 208. In the illustrated embodiment,
the host may enter a number of minutes that the player must sit out
in a key pad 334. With specific reference to FIG. 42, once a player
has been penalized the status of their electronic player
interaction area 24 is changed from occupied to penalty as
reflected in the graphic 336. The time period specified by the
penalty may be modified by the host in another keypad 338.
* * * * *