U.S. patent application number 11/419905 was filed with the patent office on 2006-12-21 for administrator tool of an electronic gaming system and method of processing gaming profiles controlled by the system.
Invention is credited to James T. III Crawford, Jon Lester, Gehrig Henderson White.
Application Number | 20060287102 11/419905 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 37574110 |
Filed Date | 2006-12-21 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060287102 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
White; Gehrig Henderson ; et
al. |
December 21, 2006 |
ADMINISTRATOR TOOL OF AN ELECTRONIC GAMING SYSTEM AND METHOD OF
PROCESSING GAMING PROFILES CONTROLLED BY THE SYSTEM
Abstract
An electronic gaming system has a plurality of tables each
having a plurality of electronic player interaction areas (EPIA's)
spaced preferably about a table periphery so that a gaming player
locates oneself in front of a respective EPIA to play a game. A
computer-based controller of the system assigns any one of
preferably a variety of games to any one table. The player is then
free to choose what game he/she desires to play by picking a
particular table. The gaming system has a host console that
communicates with each EPIA via the controller for managerial
control of the plurality of tables. A software-based administrator
tool operates preferably through a user interface for the control
of at least one gaming profile type by the deletion, editing and
creation of various gaming rules.
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: |
37574110 |
Appl. No.: |
11/419905 |
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: |
463/42 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G07F 17/3211 20130101;
G07F 17/3276 20130101; G07F 17/3293 20130101; G07F 17/322 20130101;
G07F 17/32 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
463/042 |
International
Class: |
A63F 9/24 20060101
A63F009/24 |
Claims
1. An electronic gaming system for control of a plurality of games
being selectively played by a plurality of players, the system
comprising: at least one game table having a plurality of
electronic player interaction areas for player communication and
player input, wherein each one of the plurality of players is
located adjacent to a respective one of the plurality of electronic
player interaction areas; and a first computer being in
communication with the plurality of electronic player interaction
areas, the first computer having a user interface for managerial
control of the at least one game table; and a software based
administrator tool operated through the user interface for the
control of at least one gaming profile type associated with at
least gaming rules.
2. The electronic gaming system set forth in claim 1 wherein the
user interface is a touch-screen display.
3. The electronic gaming system set forth in claim 2 wherein each
one of the plurality of electronic player interaction areas has a
second computer being in communication with the first computer.
4. The electronic gaming system set forth in claim 1 further
comprising the at least one gaming profile type having a timing
profile heading having a new timing key displayed on the user
interface and for entering a time for at least one event of a new
game of the plurality of games.
5. The electronic gaming system set forth in claim 4 wherein the
new timing key has an events sub-option that when selected lists a
plurality of timing events specific to the new game.
6. The electronic gaming system set forth in claim 5 further
comprising a time prompt of the administrator tool displayed by the
user interface when any one of the plurality of timing events is
selected.
7. The electronic gaming system set forth in claim 6 further
comprising a name prompt of the administrator tool displayed by the
user interface after entry of a time in the time prompt for naming
the new game.
8. The electronic gaming system set forth in claim 1 wherein the
timing profile heading has a plurality of sub-options each having a
unique list of timing events for editing.
9. The electronic gaming system set forth in claim 8 wherein the
plurality of sub-options has a basic timing key sub-option, a ring
game timing sub-option, and a tournament timing sub-option.
10. The electronic gaming system set forth in 8 further comprising
a delete icon of the administrator tool displayed on the user
interface for deleting a selected one of the plurality of
sub-options of the timing profile heading.
11. The electronic gaming system set forth in claim 1 further
comprising the gaming profile type having a jackpot profile heading
having a jackpot profile prompt displayed on the user interface and
having a plurality of fields for entry of jackpot parameters.
12. The electronic gaming system set forth in claim 11 wherein the
plurality of fields has a description field and a minimum pot
field.
13. The electronic gaming system set forth in claim 11 wherein the
jackpot profile heading is available for editing or creating a game
profile.
14. The electronic gaming system set forth in claim 1 further
comprising the gaming profile type having a jackpot profile heading
having a jackpot list displayed selectively on the user interface
when the jackpot profile heading is selected.
15. The electronic gaming system set forth in claim 14 further
comprising an update jackpot profile prompt of the jackpot profile
heading displayed on the user interface when any one of at least
one unique jackpot profile of the jackpot list is selected, the
jackpot profile prompt having a plurality of fields for entry of
data related to monetary parameters of the gaming rules.
16. The electronic gaming system set forth in claim 14 further
comprising a delete icon of the administrator tool that when
selected deletes a unique jackpot profile of the at least one
unique jackpot profile pre-selected from the jackpot list.
17. The electronic gaming system set forth in claim 1 wherein the
at least one gaming profile type has a game profile heading having
settable parameters of the gaming rules including game type, stakes
and betting requirements.
18. The electronic gaming system set forth in claim 1 further
comprising the at least one gaming profile type having a game
profile heading displayed on the user interface for at least
creating a unique new game profile, editing a unique existing game
profile, and deleting a unique existing game profile of the at
least one game.
19. The electronic gaming system set forth in claim 1 further
comprising: the at least one gaming type having a game profile
heading displayed on the user interface; and a create game profile
prompt of the game profile heading displayed selectively on the
user interface and having a plurality of fields for entering new
game data of the gaming rules.
20. The electronic gaming system set forth in claim 19 wherein the
plurality of fields of the create game profile prompt has a
description field and a game field.
21. The electronic gaming system set forth in claim 19 further
comprising an update game profile prompt of the game profile
heading displayed selectively on the user interface and having a
plurality of fields for entry of data to edit the gaming rules.
22. The electronic gaming system set forth in claim 21 further
comprising a clone icon of the administrator tool displayed on the
user interface and for selectively cloning a unique game profile of
at least one game profile of the game profile heading.
23. The electronic gaming system set forth in claim 21 further
comprising a delete icon of the administrator tool displayed on the
user interface and for selectively deleting a unique game profile
of at least one game profile of the game profile heading.
24. The electronic gaming system set forth in claim 19 further
comprising: the game profile heading having a tournament profile
sub-option displayed selectively on the user interface; and a table
tournament field of the plurality of fields of the create game
profile prompt for designating tournament play.
25. The electronic gaming system set forth in claim 24 further
comprising a blind structure prompt of the tournament profile
sub-option displayed selectively for tournament play and having a
plurality of fields for entering tournament play data of the gaming
rules.
26. The electronic gaming system set forth in claim 24 further
comprising a payout structure prompt of the tournament profile
sub-option displayed selectively for tournament play and having a
plurality of fields for entering tournament play data of the gaming
rules.
27. The electronic gaming system set forth in claim 24 further
comprising a rake structure prompt of the tournament profile
sub-option displayed selectively for tournament play and having a
plurality of fields for entering tournament play data of the gaming
rules.
28. The electronic gaming system set forth in claim 1 further
comprising: a timing profile of the at least one gaming type
associated with events in each respective one of the plurality of
games that are timed; a jackpot profile of the at least one gaming
type associated with monetary parameters regarding a jackpot of
each respective one of the plurality of games; and a game profile
of the at least one gaming type associated with the creation and
storing of a new game of the plurality of games.
29. A method of operating an administrator tool for controlling a
plurality of games comprising the steps of: activating a computer
of a gaming system; displaying the administrator tool on a user
interface of the computer; selecting one of a plurality of gaming
profile headings displayed in an options field of the administrator
tool; selecting a unique profile of one of the plurality of profile
headings from a plurality of lists selectively displayed in an
information field of the administrator tool for editing or
deleting.
30. The method of operating the administrator tool set forth in
claim 29 comprising the further step of selecting a delete icon
displayed in a tool bar field of the administrator tool for
deleting the selected unique profile.
31. The method of operating the administrator tool set forth in
claim 29 comprising the further steps of: creating a new timing
profile of the plurality of profile headings by selecting a refresh
icon displayed in a tool bar field of the administrator tool before
selecting the unique profile, wherein the unique profile selected
is an event from an events list of the plurality of lists; filling
in data fields including a new file name in a time prompt
automatically displayed as a result of selecting the unique event;
and selecting a refresh icon displayed in a tool bar field of the
administrator tool.
32. The method of operating the administrator tool set forth in
claim 29 comprising the further steps of: creating a new unique
profile by selecting one of a jackpot profile heading and a game
profile heading of the plurality of profile headings without
selecting any one of the unique profiles in the plurality of lists;
displaying a respective prompt of the selected one of the jackpot
profile heading and the game profile heading by the administrator
tool; and filling in data fields of the respective prompt.
33. The method of operating the administrator tool set forth in
claim 29 comprising the further steps of: editing the selected
unique profile by selecting a refresh icon displayed in a tool bar
field of the administrator tool before selecting the unique
profile, wherein the unique profile selected is a timing event from
a timing events list of the plurality of lists; filling in data
fields, without including a new file name, in a time prompt
automatically displayed as a result of selecting the unique event;
and selecting a refresh icon displayed in a tool bar field of the
administrator tool.
34. The method of operating the administrator tool set forth in
claim 29 comprising the further steps of: editing the selected
unique profile wherein the selected unique profile is a jackpot
profile selected from a jackpot list of the plurality of lists; and
filling in data fields of a jackpot prompt displayed by the
administrator tool as a result of selecting the unique profile.
35. The method of operating the administrator tool set forth in
claim 29 comprising the further steps of: editing the selected
unique profile wherein the selected unique profile is a game
profile selected from a jackpot list of the plurality of lists;
displaying game parameters of the game profile in the information
field; selecting an update icon in an options field of the user
interface; and filling in data fields of a game prompt displayed by
the administrator tool as a result of selecting the update icon.
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 an electronic
gaming system and method of operation and more particularly to an
administrator tool of the system and method of creating and editing
gaming profiles controlled by the electronic gaming system.
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] In U.S. Patent Application Publication Number US
2005/0090304 A1, filed Sep. 13, 2004, and disclosed herein by
reference in its entirety, an electronic gaming system and method
of displaying and obscuring electronic playing cards is disclosed
and assigned to the same assignee of the present invention.
Generally, this electronic gaming system replaces the human dealer
with a computer capable of simulating the deal and simulating the
playing cards via video displays. The system has a plurality of
tables with each table having a plurality of electronic player
interaction areas or stations (EPIA's). An individual interested in
playing a particular game can locate oneself in front of a
particular station of a table (or can be assigned) and upon
logging-in, can play the game.
[0008] Unfortunately, known gaming rules can not easily be altered,
updated or created by qualified casino employees. For instance,
rules related to timing parameters, jackpots and distribution, and
other gaming parameters can not be easily changed to meet the
changing demands and wants of a player, or to satisfy the interests
of the casino.
[0009] The present invention is aimed at one or more of the
problems set forth above.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0010] An electronic gaming system has a plurality of tables each
having a plurality of electronic player interaction areas (EPIA's)
spaced preferably about a table periphery so that a gaming player
locates oneself in front of a respective EPIA to play a particular
game. A computer-based controller of the system assigns any one of
preferably a variety of games to any one table. The player is then
free to choose what game he/she desires to play by picking a
particular table. The gaming system has a host console that
communicates with each EPIA via the controller for managerial
control of the plurality of tables. A software-based administrator
tool operates preferably through a user interface for the control
of at least one gaming profile type by the deletion, editing and
creation of various gaming rules.
[0011] The software based administrator tool is displayed on the
user interface and includes at least one gaming profile type.
Preferably, the gaming profile type has a timing profile heading, a
jackpot profile heading and a game profile heading. Each heading is
capable of providing a user with the ability to create, edit and
delete specific profile attributes of any one of a plurality of
games. Generally, the timing profile heading is associated with
events in a game that are timed, and thus determines how fast or
how slow the game proceeds within the gaming system. The jackpot
profiles heading enables adjustment of various amounts of money or
awards regarding jackpots, and the game profiles heading allows the
creation and saving of games each with unique parameters or gaming
rules.
[0012] A method of operating the administrator tool for controlling
the plurality of games includes selecting one of the plurality of
gaming profile headings displayed in an options field of the
administrator tool. Once the appropriate heading is selected, a
unique profile of any one of the profile headings can be chosen
from a plurality of lists selectively displayed in an information
field of the administrator tool for editing, deletion, and
generally creation.
[0013] Benefits and advantages of the present invention include an
automated electronic gaming system that does not require a human
dealer of cards that could be prone to mistakes and other human
frailties such as sickness. Yet another advantage is the ability to
efficiently meet the changing needs and daily demands often found
on the gaming floor of a casino by handling and processing a wide
array of games and related gaming profiles by selected users or
casino employees having pre-arranged security clearances.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] 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:
[0015] FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic illustration of a gaming system
embodying the present invention and in a casino environment;
[0016] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an electronic poker table of
the gaming system;
[0017] FIG. 3 is a top view of the electronic poker table of FIG.
2;
[0018] FIG. 4 is a front and back view of an electronic playing
card;
[0019] 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;
[0020] FIG. 6 is a plan view of the player interface of FIG. 5 with
the hole cards revealed;
[0021] FIG. 7 is a partial block diagram of the gaming system
associated with one poker table;
[0022] FIG. 8 is a partial block diagram of the gaming system
associated with a plurality of poker tables;
[0023] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the electronic player
interaction area in a module form with headphones;
[0024] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a modified electronic
player interaction area embodied in a hand-held module with
headphones;
[0025] FIG. 11 is a block diagram of software components of the
gaming system;
[0026] FIG. 12 is a simplified block diagram of the gaming
system;
[0027] FIG. 13 is a block diagram of the gaming system with a host
console;
[0028] FIG. 14 is a flow diagram of a method of operating the
gaming system;
[0029] FIG. 15 is a first table tab image displayed on a video
screen of the host console;
[0030] FIG. 16 is a second table tab image displayed on the video
screen of the host console;
[0031] FIG. 17 is a third table tab image displayed on the video
screen of the host console;
[0032] FIG. 18 is a fourth table tab image displayed on the video
screen of the host console;
[0033] FIG. 19 is a hand dialog displayed on the video screen of
the host console;
[0034] FIG. 20 is a minutes dialog displayed on the video screen of
the host console;
[0035] FIG. 21 is a fifth table tab image displayed on the video
screen of the host console;
[0036] FIG. 22 is a sixth table tab image displayed on the video
screen of the host console;
[0037] FIG. 23 is a seventh table tab image displayed on the video
screen of the host console;
[0038] FIG. 24 is an eighth table tab image displayed on the video
screen of the host console;
[0039] FIG. 25 is a first wait list tab image displayed on the
video screen of the host console;
[0040] FIG. 26 is a ninth table tab image displayed on the video
screen of the host console;
[0041] FIG. 27 is an account number dialog displayed on the video
screen of the host console;
[0042] FIG. 28 is a time limit dialog displayed on the video screen
of the host console;
[0043] FIG. 29 is a tournament chop page image displayed on the
video screen of the host console;
[0044] FIG. 30 is a first image display on a video system of an
administrator tool and displaying a timing profile;
[0045] FIG. 31 is a second image display of the timing profile;
[0046] FIG. 32 is a third image display of the timing profile;
[0047] FIG. 33 is a fourth image display of the timing profile;
[0048] FIG. 34 is a fifth image display of the timing profile;
[0049] FIG. 35 is a sixth image display of the timing profile;
[0050] FIG. 36 is a seventh image display of the timing
profile;
[0051] FIG. 37 is a eighth image display of the timing profile;
[0052] FIG. 38 is a ninth image display of the timing profile;
[0053] FIG. 39 is a tenth image display of the timing profile;
[0054] FIG. 40 is an eleventh image display of the timing
profile;
[0055] FIG. 41 is a first image display of a jackpot profile of the
administrator tool;
[0056] FIG. 42 is an image display of a create jackpot profile
prompt of the jackpot profile;
[0057] FIG. 43 is a second image display of the jackpot
profile;
[0058] FIG. 44 is a third image display of the jackpot profile
having an update jackpot profile prompt;
[0059] FIG. 45 is a fourth image display of the jackpot
profile;
[0060] FIG. 46 is a fifth image display of the jackpot profile
having a delete confirmation prompt;
[0061] FIG. 47 is a create game profile prompt of an image display
of a game profile of the administrator tool;
[0062] FIG. 48 is a first image display of a game profile of the
administrator tool;
[0063] FIG. 49 is a first image display of an update game profile
prompt of the game profile;
[0064] FIG. 50 is a second image display of the game profile;
[0065] FIG. 51 is a third image display of the game profile;
[0066] FIG. 52 is a second image display of the update game profile
prompt;
[0067] FIG. 53 is a fourth image display of the game profile;
[0068] FIG. 54 is a fifth image display of the game profile;
[0069] FIG. 55 is a sixth image display of the game profile;
[0070] FIG. 56 is a seventh image display of the game profile;
[0071] FIG. 57 is a first image display of a tournament game
profile of the game profile;
[0072] FIG. 58 is a first image display of a create blind structure
prompt of the tournament game profile;
[0073] FIG. 59 is a second image display of the create blind
prompt;
[0074] FIG. 60 is a second image display of the tournament game
profile;
[0075] FIG. 61 is a first image display of a create payout
structure prompt of the tournament game profile;
[0076] FIG. 62 is a second image display of the create payout
structure prompt;
[0077] FIG. 63 is an image display of a ring game profile;
[0078] FIG. 64 is a first image display of a create rake structure
prompt of the ring game profile; and
[0079] FIG. 65 is a second image display of the create rake
structure prompt of the ring game profile.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF INVENTION
[0080] 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
[0081] 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 community or 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.
[0082] 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.
[0083] Furthermore, the poker or card game can be a timed game
wherein the players have a predetermined time period to complete
each turn. For example, the players have a set period of one minute
to complete each turn. Furthermore, this 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.
[0084] 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.
[0085] 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.
[0086] 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
[0087] 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
[0088] 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.
[0089] 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
[0090] 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).
[0091] 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.
[0092] a) Card Reader and Player Account:
[0093] 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.
[0094] 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.
[0095] b) Controller
[0096] 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.
[0097] c) Visual Player Interface
[0098] 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.
[0099] 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
common 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.
[0100] 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).
[0101] 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.
[0102] 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.
[0103] 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).
[0104] Preferably, the player interface 54 also displays the common
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.
[0105] 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.
[0106] In addition, or alternatively, to the common cards 30
displayed by the CDA 26, each EPIA preferably includes a graphical
representation of the common 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.
[0107] Other attributes of the EPIA's 24 may include: [0108]
utilization of Surface Acoustic Wave touch screen technology [0109]
utilization of Multi Touch touch screen technology [0110] 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 [0111] 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.),
[0112] ability to display live and pre-recorded video, and [0113]
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).
[0114] d) Audio Player Interface:
[0115] 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.
[0116] e) Physical Structure of the EPIA:
[0117] 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 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.
[0118] V. Central Display Area and Audio
[0119] 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.
[0120] 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.
[0121] In other card games other than Texas Hold'em, common 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.
[0122] In general, the CDA 26 is preferably capable of displaying
and/or animating: [0123] blinds, [0124] common cards 30, [0125]
bets placed and player chip stacks, [0126] an indication of players
who have folded and not folded, [0127] winning hands, [0128] wining
hand percentage estimates in situations where all remaining player
hold cards are exposed, and [0129] rake in dollars or virtual
chips.
[0130] 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
[0131] 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 CDA 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.
[0132] 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: [0133]
electronically shuffling the playing cards 76 [0134] dealing cards,
[0135] controlling players' turns, [0136] receives the player's
data input, [0137] player tracking, [0138] cashless wagering,
[0139] 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, [0140]
defining and managing jackpots, including the house percentage or
rake, [0141] defining and managing progressive jackpots, [0142]
establishing and managing a queue for players and assigning players
to seats 40 and/or specific tables 18 from the queue, and [0143]
establishing and managing tournament play, including assigning
player seats, collapsing tables, and the like.
[0144] 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
[0145] 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 102
that is preferably a touch-screen similar to the player interface
54.
[0146] 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.
[0147] The host console 102 may enable a casino employee or host
to: [0148] select or change one of the plurality of poker games to
be played on one or more of the electronic poker tables 18, [0149]
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.),
[0150] 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, [0151]
select whether the electronic poker game is a timed game or a
non-timed game, [0152] modify the predetermined time period for
each betting round in a timed game, [0153] monitor the number of
drinks ordered by a player through the EPIA 24, [0154] add notes
with information related to a specific player, [0155] initiate a
replay of a previous hand graphically, textually or numerically,
[0156] lock out and remove one of the players from the electronic
poker table 18, [0157] 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).
[0158] 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.
[0159] 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.
[0160] 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 26, the host console 102 may be adapted to restart or reboot
these computers.
[0161] 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.
[0162] 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 126 generally programmed under the table tab 122 option.
Selection of the wait list tab 124 displays a wait list page 128
(see FIG. 25). 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.
[0163] 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 connection 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.
[0164] 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.
[0165] The table component list parameter list 132 preferably
includes a: [0166] 1. Description Field (e.g., "Table 13, Seat 4");
[0167] 2. Client Type Field (e.g., Player or Table); [0168] 3.
Client Status: (Active or Inactive); [0169] 4. Connection Status:
(Connected or Disconnected); [0170] 5. Seat Number (where
appropriate); [0171] 6. Seat Status (e.g., Open, Reserved, Active);
[0172] 7. Player Name (when available); and, [0173] 8. Player
Status (e.g., Active or In-Active).
[0174] 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 button 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.
[0175] 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.
[0176] 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 150 or the stop game
button 152 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.
[0177] 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.
[0178] 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.
[0179] 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.
[0180] Referring to FIG. 18, the seven table representations
180A-180G of the table page 126 is illustrated and preferably
includes: [0181] 1. The name of the table shown; [0182] 2. The game
being played at the table (e.g., Limit Hold'em $1/$2 or no game);
[0183] 3. The number of hands being played per hour.
[0184] 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.
[0185] Referring to FIG. 23 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. 20). 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. 19). 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.
[0186] As best illustrated in FIGS. 21 and 22, 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. 21, 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.
[0187] Referring to FIG. 22, 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.
[0188] Referring to FIG. 26, 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. 26-28, 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.
[0189] 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.
27). 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. 28) 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.
26 that shows seat 7 reserved for "Greg").
[0190] 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).
[0191] With particular reference to FIG. 24, 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.
[0192] With particular reference to FIG. 25, 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:
[0193] 1. the number of tables playing the game; [0194] 2. the
number of players sat in a given interval; and, [0195] 3. the
number of players in the queue (i.e., the wait list).
[0196] 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.
[0197] With particular reference to FIG. 29, 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 225 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.
[0198] 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:
[0199] U.S. patent application Ser. No. N/A (Atty. Docket No.
60,667-063); [0200] U.S. patent application Ser. No. N/A (Atty.
Docket No. 60,667-064); [0201] U.S. patent application Ser. No. N/A
(Atty. Docket No. 60,667-065); [0202] U.S. patent application Ser.
No. N/A (Atty. Docket No. 60,667-066); [0203] U.S. patent
application Ser. No. N/A (Atty. Docket No. 60,667-067); and [0204]
U.S. patent application Ser. No. N/A (Atty. Docket No.
60,667-068).
VIII. Administrator Tool
[0205] Referring to FIGS. 30-65, the gaming system 10 preferably
has a administrator tool 300 that is software based or a computer
readable media and communicates with the host console 102 and
server 50 for configuring the settings of the electronic poker
tables 18 and games. The administrator tool 300 enables, for
instance, a floor manager of the casino 12 to conveniently and
quickly adapt to the constant changes that occur within the poker
room or area 14, because new games can be created, configured and
stored for easy access. Preferably, the administrator tool 300 is
accessed by selecting an administrator tool icon (not shown) from a
dedicated computer with a dedicated interface, monitor, electronic
tablet or screen 301 and preferably a mouse or touch screen.
Alternatively, the administrator tool 300 could be run from the
game computer 94 (see FIG. 12), the host console 102, or the sever
computer 50 (see FIG. 13). Access to the administrator tool icon is
preferably limited to a pre-approved floor manager or employee of
the casino 12 who may or may not be a host employee. This depends
upon internal security and operational procedures of the
casino.
[0206] Referring generally to FIGS. 30 and 31, when the icon (not
shown) is initially selected, the administrator tool 300 displays
three options or settings designated as gaming profile types 302,
table setup 304 and host administration 306 in an option field 308
preferably at the left of the screen 301. The option field 308 is
adjacent to an information field 310 on the right and a tool bar
312 preferably toward the top of the screen 301. By selecting a "+"
symbol adjacent to gaming profile types 302, the list is expanded
and a plurality of profile types or headings are displayed; they
preferably are: timing profiles heading 314, jackpot profile
heading 316 and game profile heading 318. The timing profiles
heading 314 is associated with events in a game that are timed, and
thus determines how fast or how slow the game proceeds within the
system 10. The jackpot profile heading 316 enables adjustment of
various amounts of money or awards regarding jackpots, and the game
profiles heading 318 allows the creation and saving of games each
with unique parameters.
[0207] a) Timing Profile:
[0208] The timing profiles heading 314 functions to perform the
following: [0209] create new timing profiles, [0210] edit an
existing timing profile, and [0211] delete a timing profile.
[0212] Referring to FIGS. 30-31, when the administrator tool 300 is
used to create a new timing profile, the timing profiles heading
314 in the expanded list under profile types 302 is first
highlighted by the floor manager preferably without selecting the
"+" symbol adjacent to the timing profiles heading 314.
Highlighting of the timing profiles heading 314 causes the display
of basic timing information 320 in the information field 310. The
floor manager then selects a new icon 322 in the tool bar 312 that
causes a new timing key 324 to appear in the information field 310.
Referring to FIG. 32, the "+" symbol adjacent to the highlighted
timing profiles heading 314 is then selected by the floor manager
that preferably reveals basic timing 326 and new timing key 328 as
sub-options under the timing profiles heading 314 in the options
field 308. Similarly, the new timing key 328 is then highlighted
and a "+" symbol adjacent to the highlighted new timing key 328 is
selected by the floor manager. The administrator tool 300 then
automatically reveals a sub-option identified as events 330. When
the floor manager selects events 330, an update value icon 333
appears in the tool bar 312, and an event list 332 is displayed in
the information field 310 (see FIG. 33) wherein a predetermined
timing value is shown for each uniquely identified event in the
list 332.
[0213] To create new timing, the floor manager then selects an
event from the event list 332 for editing. Referring to FIG. 34,
this selection causes an overlay window or time prompt 334 to
appear for entry of the new time value preferably in seconds. After
the new time is entered, the floor manager selects the "ok" box 336
and commits the change by selecting a refresh icon 338 in the tool
bar 312. Referring to FIG. 35, by selecting the refresh icon 338
the floor manager is prompted by the administrator tool 300 to
rename the event selected via an overlay window or name prompt 340
that automatically appears with space provided to enter a new name.
Once entered, the floor manager selects an "ok" box 342 of the name
prompt 340 that completes the creation of a new timing profile
process.
[0214] Referring to FIGS. 36-38, when the administrator tool 300 is
used to edit a timing profile, the "+" symbol adjacent to profile
types 302 is first selected by the floor manager. This causes the
administrator to reveal the plurality of profile types or headings,
which preferably are the timing profiles heading 314, the jackpot
profile heading 316 and the game profile heading 318. The timing
profiles heading 314 is then highlighted by the floor manager from
the plurality of profile types 302 and the adjacent "+" symbol is
selected to reveal profile types or sub-options in the options
field 308. These sub-options are preferably basic timing 326, ring
game timing 344, and tournament timing 346. Selection of the "+"
symbol adjacent to the timing profiles heading 314 also causes the
administrator tool 300 to automatically reveal the respective
display of basic timing information 320, ring game timing 348, and
tournament timing 350 in the information field 310. As an
illustrative example, the floor manager then selects a "+" symbol
adjacent to the tournament timing 346 in the options field 308 that
reveals a subcategory events 352. When the floor manager highlights
or selects events 352, the events list 332 appears in the
information field 310.
[0215] From the events list 352, the floor manager then selects the
desired event for editing. Referring to FIG. 38 and as illustrated
by example, the event identified "between split award" 354 is
selected causing the administrator tool 300 to reveal an overlay
window or time prompt 356. The floor manager then enters the
desired time in the available data field 358 of the prompt 356 and
when finished selects an "o.k." box 360 of the prompt 356. To
commit the new changes, the floor manager then selects the refresh
icon 338 in the tool bar 312, thus completing the editing
process.
[0216] Referring to FIGS. 39-40, when the administrator tool 300 is
used to delete a timing profile, the "+" symbol adjacent to profile
types 302 is first selected by the floor manager. This causes the
administrator to reveal the plurality of profile types or headings,
which preferably are the timing profiles heading 314, the jackpot
profile heading 316 and the game profile heading 318. The timing
profiles heading 314 is then highlighted by the floor manager from
the plurality of profile types 302 and the adjacent "+" symbol is
selected to reveal the profile types or sub-options in the options
field 308. These sub-options are preferably the basic timing 326,
the ring game timing 344, and the tournament timing 346.
[0217] From the options field 308 or from the information field
310, the floor manager, by way of illustrative example, then
selects or highlights the ring game timing 344 or 348. Once
selected, the floor manager selects the delete icon 362 in the tool
bar 312 causing the administrator tool 300 to automatically reveal
an overlay window or delete confirmation prompt 364 that requests
confirmation of the selected deletion. Once the floor manager
confirms the deletion by selecting a "yes" box 366 in the prompt
364 the deletion process is completed.
[0218] b) Jackpot Profile:
[0219] The jackpot profile heading 316 can be added to any game
profile and further functions to perform the following: [0220]
create a new jackpot profile, [0221] edit an existing jackpot
profile, and [0222] delete a jackpot profile.
[0223] Referring to FIGS. 41-42, when the administrator tool 300 is
used to create a new jackpot profile, the "+" symbol adjacent the
profile types 302 is selected and the jackpot profile heading 316
is selected or highlighted from the subsequent drop-down list. Once
highlighted, the administrator automatically reveals a jackpot list
368 in the information field 310. The floor manager then selects
the new icon 322 in the tool bar 312 that causes a jackpot profile
overlay window or jackpot prompt 370 to appear (see FIG. 42).
[0224] Preferably, the jackpot prompt 370 has the following fields
for the floor manager to enter data: [0225] description field 372
[0226] minimum pot field 374 [0227] fee percent field 376 [0228]
fee increment field 378 [0229] maximum fee field 380 [0230] fixed
fee amount field 382 [0231] jackpot account field 384 [0232] payout
amount field 386 [0233] jackpot rule field 388 [0234] minimum
players field 390
[0235] The description field 372 assigns a name to the jackpot
profile such as for example "Royal Flush" or "Bad Beat." The
minimum pot field 374 determines the minimum amount required in the
pot before it is awarded, and assigns that amount in the space
provided. If a casino fee is desired, the fee percent field 376
takes a percent of each pot. If a fee percent is desired, the fee
increment field 378 is used to enter an incremental fee amount
preferably in dollars. Preferably, the fee increment would match a
chip value such as fifty cents or one dollar. The maximum fee field
380 sets a cap on the dollar amount taken out of each pot, if so
desired. The fixed fee amount field 382 sets a specific cents or
dollar amount fee for each pot. Use of field 382 alleviates use of
fields 376, 378 and 380. The jackpot account field 384 is the name
of the account where the funds established by field 376 or field
380 is deposited. This field preferably has a default name of
jackpot. The minimum players field 390 sets the minimum number of
players that must be playing for a jackpot to be awarded.
[0236] With the jackpot profile heading 316 chosen, each of the
fields 372-390 are listed as column headings 392 of the jackpot
list 368 in the information field 310. When all applicable fields
372-390 of the prompt 370 are filled in by the floor manager, an
"o.k." box 394 of the prompt 370 is selected and the jackpot
profile is then available for selection when updating or creating a
game profile.
[0237] Referring to FIGS. 43-44, when the administrator tool 300 is
used to edit a jackpot profile, the "+" symbol adjacent to profile
types 302 is first selected by the floor manager. This causes the
administrator to reveal the plurality of profile types or headings,
which preferably are the timing profiles heading 314, the jackpot
profile heading 316 and the game profile heading 318. The jackpot
profile heading 316 is then highlighted or selected by the floor
manager from the plurality of profile types 302 in the options
field 308. This selection causes the administrator tool 300 to
display the jackpot list 368 in the information field 310. From the
jackpot list 368, the floor manager chooses the appropriate jackpot
profile for editing.
[0238] Referring to FIG. 44 and by way of illustrative example, a
ring bad beat jackpot profile 396 of the jackpot list 368 is
selected by the floor manager. This selection causes the
administrator tool 300 to display an update jackpot profile prompt
398 that preferably has the same fields 372-390 as the create
jackpot prompt 370 (see FIG. 42). When all desired fields for
editing are changed by the floor manager, the floor manager selects
an "o.k." box 400 of the prompt 398 thus completing the editing
process of a jackpot profile.
[0239] Referring to FIGS. 45-46, when the administrator tool 300 is
used to delete a jackpot profile, the "+" symbol adjacent to
profile types 302 is first selected by the floor manager. This
causes the administrator tool 300 to reveal the plurality of
profile types or headings 314,316 and 318. The jackpot profile
heading 316 is then highlighted or selected by the floor manager
from the plurality of profile types 302 in the options field 308.
This selection causes the administrator tool 300 to display the
jackpot list 368 in the information field 310. From the jackpot
list 368, the floor manager chooses the appropriate jackpot profile
for deletion.
[0240] From the information field 310, the floor manager, by way of
illustrative example, then selects or highlights the jackpot
profile identified as "ring bad beat" 396. Once selected, the floor
manager selects the delete icon 362 in the tool bar 312 causing the
administrator tool 300 to automatically reveal an overlay window or
delete confirmation prompt 402 that requests confirmation of the
selected deletion (see FIG. 46). Once the floor manager confirms
the deletion by selecting a "yes" box 404 in the prompt 402 the
deletion process is completed.
[0241] c) Game Profiles:
[0242] Referring to FIGS. 47-48, the game profiles provides the
floor manager with the ability to create and save games with each
game having a unique set of parameter. These parameters may include
such setting as: [0243] game type (ring or tournament) [0244]
stakes (limit or no limit) [0245] betting requirements (small and
big blind values) For example, the floor manager can create two
different game profiles for Texas Hold'em with different small and
big blind values. A game profile is preferably assigned to an
electronic table 18 before starting the game with the specific game
profile at that table.
[0246] The game profiles heading 316 further functions to perform
the following: [0247] create a new game profile, [0248] edit an
existing game profile, [0249] clone an existing game profile, and
[0250] delete a game profile.
[0251] When the administrator tool 300 is used to create a new game
profile, the game profiles heading 318 in the expanded list under
profile types 302 is first highlighted by the floor manager
preferably without selecting the "+" symbol adjacent to the timing
profiles heading 314. The floor manager then selects the new icon
322 in the tool bar 312 that causes a create game profile prompt
406 to appear (see FIG. 47). Preferably, the game prompt 406 has
the following fields for the floor manager to enter data and make
selections: [0252] description field 408 [0253] game field 410
[0254] wait lists field 412 [0255] time out field 414 [0256] ring
field 416 [0257] single table tournament field 418 [0258]
multi-table tournament field 420 [0259] hi field 422 [0260] hi/low
field 424 [0261] ante field 426 [0262] bring in field 428 [0263]
small blind field 430 [0264] big blind field 432 [0265] small wager
field 434 [0266] big wager field 436 [0267] limit field 438 [0268]
pot limit field 440 [0269] no limit field 442 [0270] minimum stakes
field 444 [0271] suggested field 446 [0272] maximum stakes field
448 [0273] maximum raises field 450 [0274] minimum rebuy field 452
[0275] minimum rejoin field 454 [0276] rejoin timeout field 456
[0277] minimum players field 458 [0278] maximum players field 460
[0279] time limit field 462 [0280] auto deal field 464 [0281] game
timing field 466 [0282] zero balance timeout field 468 [0283]
number of tables field 470 [0284] buy-in field 472 [0285] initial
stakes field 474 [0286] increment field 476 [0287] unit field 478
[0288] rake account field 480 [0289] available jackpot profiles
field 482 [0290] assigned jackpot profiles field 484
[0291] The description field 408 of prompt 406 enables the floor
manager to enter the distinct name of any new game. Game field 410
allows entry of a specific game such as for example Texas Hold'em.
Selecting the check box of the wait lists field 412 activates the
wait list feature of the system 10 for a particular game. Not
selecting the wait lists field 412 will cause the particular game
not to appear on the waiting list of the system 10. Provided the
waiting list field 412 is selected, the time out field 414 enables
entry of a time-out value preferably in minutes, which provides a
prospective player that amount of time to log into the game before
the waiting list chooses the next available player. Selection of
the ring field 416 as a type of game profile allows a game to be
continuous in the sense that it enables a revolving set of players.
Selection of the single table tournament field 418 as a type of
game profile restricts the game to a single table that has a finite
set of players. Each player may continue to play until the initial
buy-in is depleted and only one player remains in the game (i.e.
the tournament winner). Selection of the multi-table tournament
field 420 is similar to field 418 but entails multiple tables. The
hi field 422 allows the floor manager to choose the option where
the highest hand in the game wins the pot. Selection of the hi/low
field 424 is an alternative to the hi field 422 wherein the player
with the lowest hand preferably has a stake in the pot.
[0292] With regards to betting requirements, the ante field 426 of
the game prompt 406 prescribes the amount posted by all players at
the start of a hand. Preferably, this amount is entered in dollars.
The bring-in field 428 sets the minimum amount of money that a
player must bring into the game. The small blind field 430 is the
minimum amount of money that the player immediately to the left of
the dealer button must post at the beginning of a hand. The big
blind field 432 as an alternative to the small blind field 430, is
the amount of money that the player immediately to the left of the
dealer button must post at the beginning of a hand (i.e. no more
and no less). The small and big wager fields 434, 436 are the
respective minimum and maximum amounts of money for an acceptable
raise in betting.
[0293] With regards to stakes requirements, the limit field 438
sets a maximum limit to betting in each round of game play. The pot
limit field 440 is chosen to allow a betting structure that permits
players to bet up to the amount of the pot. The no limit field 442
is preferably an alternative to fields 438, 440 and permits a
player to wager any or all of their chips in one bet. The minimum
and maximum stakes fields 444, 448 allow entry of respective
minimum and maximum amounts of money that a player must bring to
the game. Fields 444, 448 are disabled if the tournament field 418
or 420 is selected. The suggested field 446 is optional and
suggests the amount of money that a player should bring to a game.
Field 446 is disabled if tournament field 418 or 420 is selected.
The maximum raises field 450 set the maximum number of raises
permitted per round of play. The minimum rebuy field 452 sets the
minimum amount of money that a player must bring back into a game
after achieving a zero balance in the game and while still being
seated and logged into the game. The minimum rejoin field 454 set
the minimum amount of money that a player must bring into a game to
resume play after the player has previously logged out. Preferably,
the rejoin amount is the same as the minimum stakes amount. The
rejoin timeout field 456 sets the minimum amount of time that a
player must wait in order to rejoin a game for less than what they
left the game with. Preferably, field 456 has a default time of
about sixty minutes.
[0294] With regards to game options, the minimum and maximum
players fields 458, 460 set the respective minimum and maximum
number of players that must be present before a game can begin.
Preferably, the maximum number of players per table 18 for system
10 is about ten but can be decreased by the floor manager. The time
limit field 462 sets a time limit, preferably in seconds, within
which a player must act before the system 10 completes an action
automatically. When selected, the auto deal field 464 causes the
system 10 to automatically deal each hand after the prior hand is
complete. If not selected, the system will wait for an employee or
floor manager to manually select auto deal from the screen 120.
Preferably, the auto deal field 464 is selected when creating a
game profile because auto deal can be temporarily disabled
utilizing the screen 120. When selecting the game timing field 466,
a drop down list is provided by the administrator that lists all of
the available timing profiles. From this list, the floor manager
chooses a timing profile for the game profile. The zero balance
timeout field 468 provides a player with a specified amount of time
after achieving a zero balance to rebuy into the game. If the
player does not rebuy into the game within the time specified, the
system 10 will automatically remove the player from the game. This
time is preferably entered in seconds and the field 468 generally
acts to free up chairs that can otherwise be used by active
players.
[0295] With regards to tournament play, the number of tables field
470 sets the number of tables for a game profile during tournament
play. Preferably, field 470 has a default setting of one table. The
buy-in field 472 allows entry of a dollar amount that a player must
pay to enter the tournament. The initial stakes field 474 enables
entry of an amount of virtual chips that a player receives for a
tournament. The stakes are not necessary equal to the buy-in
amount. In tournaments, all players will preferably begin with the
same amount of stakes or chips. The increment field 476 is
dependent upon the unit field 478 and enables setting of the amount
of hands or elapsed minutes before the blinds are increased by the
system 10. The unit field 478 is associated with the increment
field 476 and when selected provides of drop-down list of units
(i.e. number of hands, and minutes) for the floor manager to choose
from.
[0296] With regards to rakes and jackpots, the rake account field
480 allows entry of an account in which the rake is deposited. As
illustrated in FIG. 47, the current rake account is "houserake."
The available jackpot profiles field 482 is preferably a scrolling
list of available jackpot profiles. One or more of these profiles
can be selected by the floor manager and upon selection of arrow
key 486 of the prompt 406, the selected jackpot profile(s) are
eligible whenever the game profile is being played. The assigned
jackpot profiles field 486 is a scrolling list of jackpot profiles
assigned to the game profile. Selection of any one of the assigned
jackpot profiles and selection of arrow key 488 will remove the
selected, assigned, jackpot profile from the assigned jackpot
profiles field 486.
[0297] When all applicable fields 408-484 of the create game
profile prompt 406 are filled in by the floor manager, a "save" box
490 of the prompt 406 is selected and the game profile is saved for
future use.
[0298] Referring to FIGS. 48-49, the administrator tool 300 can
edit a game profile at any time. However, any game profile changes
preferably will not affect a game being played at the time of the
change. When the administrator tool 300 is used to edit a game
profile, the "+" symbol adjacent to profile types 302 is first
selected by the floor manager. This causes the administrator to
reveal the plurality of profile types or headings, which preferably
are the timing profiles heading 314, the jackpot profile heading
316 and the game profile heading 318. The gaming profiles heading
318 is then highlighted by the floor manager from the plurality of
profile types 302 and the adjacent "+" symbol is selected to reveal
a listing of available game profiles 492 in the options field 308.
The game profile 492 that requires editing is then highlighted or
selected causing each of the fields 408-484 as previously described
for prompt 406 to be listed as column headings 494 in the
information field 310 and the parameters/data 496 of the selected
game profile 492 to appear in the information field 310 below the
associated column headings 494.
[0299] When the floor manager selects an update icon 498 in the
tool bar 312, an update game profile prompt 500 appears (see FIG.
49). Prompt 500 is substantially the same as the previously
described create game prompt 406 (see FIG. 47), hence, like fields
shall have the same identifying numerals. Once displayed, the floor
manager makes the desired changes to any one of the fields 408-484.
When finished, the floor manager selects a "save" box 502 of the
prompt 500 and the updated game profile can then be assigned to an
electronic table 18.
[0300] Referring to FIGS. 50-53, cloning of a game profile is an
efficient and relatively simple means of creating a new game
profile that closely resembles a game profile that has previously
been created. When the administrator tool 300 is used to clone a
game profile, the "+" symbol adjacent to profile types 302 is first
selected by the floor manager. This causes the administrator to
reveal the plurality of profile types or headings, which preferably
are the timing profiles heading 314, the jackpot profile heading
316 and the game profile heading 318. The gaming profiles heading
318 is then highlighted or selected by the floor manager revealing
the listing of available game profiles 492 in the options field
308. The game profile 492 that requires cloning is then highlighted
or selected causing each of the fields 408-484, previously
described, to be listed as column headings 494 in the information
field 310 and the parameters/data 496 of the selected game profile
492 to appear in the information field 310 below the associated
column headings 494.
[0301] When the floor manager selects a clone icon 504 in the tool
bar 312, the word "CLONE" is appended to the game profile name
preferably in both the option field 308 and the information field
310 as part of the data 496 (see FIG. 51). As illustrated, the
clone of the originally selected game profile 492 appears
preferably at the bottom of the drop-down listing of game profiles
and is highlighted. The selected game profile to be cloned remains
in the listing, however, it is no longer highlighted by the
administrator tool 300.
[0302] To make changes to the game profile clone, the floor manager
then selects the update icon 498 in the tool bar 312 and the update
game profile prompt 500 appears (see FIG. 52). Once displayed, the
floor manager makes the desired changes to any one of the fields
408-484 (see FIG. 47). When finished, the floor manager selects the
"save" box 502 of the prompt 500 and the game profile clone appears
in highlighted form in the game profile listing with the new name
preferably entered by the floor manager into prompt 500 (see FIG.
53). For instance and as illustrated, the game profile name
"Hold'Em $2/$2 (CLONE)" in description field 408 of the prompt 500
has been changed by the floor manager to "jackpot Hold'em $2/$2" as
appearing in FIG. 53.
[0303] Referring to FIGS. 54-55, when the administrator tool 300 is
used to delete a game profile, the "+" symbol adjacent to profile
types 302 is first selected by the floor manager. This causes the
administrator tool 300 to reveal the plurality of profile types or
headings 314, 316 and 318. The game profile heading 318 is then
highlighted or selected by the floor manager from the plurality of
profile types 302 in the options field 308. This selection causes
the administrator tool 300 to display the drop-down listing of game
profiles 492 in the options field 308. From the drop-down list, the
floor manager then chooses the appropriate game profile 492 for
deletion. Once selected, the floor manager selects the delete icon
362 in the tool bar 312 causing the administrator tool 300 to
automatically reveal a delete confirmation prompt 506 that requests
confirmation of the selected deletion (see FIG. 55). Once the floor
manager confirms the deletion by selecting a "yes" box 508 in the
confirmation prompt 506 the deletion process is completed.
[0304] d) Tournament Game Profiles
[0305] Tournament game profiles are created generally as any other
game profile is created and as previously described. As best shown
in FIG. 47, selection of the single table tournament field 418 of
create game profile prompt 406 designates a game profile as a
tournament game. Generally from the option and information fields
308, 310 the floor manager may modify a tournament game profile in
terms of creating: [0306] a blind structure 510 (see FIGS. 57 and
58), [0307] a payout structure 512 (see FIG. 62), and [0308] a rake
structure 514 (see FIG. 65, also applicable for ring game
profiles).
[0309] Blind structures 510 is a way of increasing blinds
associated with the hand or minute increments previously entered in
field 476 and field 478 of the create game profile prompt 406 (see
FIG. 47). Payout structures 512 generally designate an amount or
percent of money paid out to players at the end of a tournament and
dependent upon their final placement with regards to the other
tournament players. For instance, a player who wins first place
will likely receive a greater award than a player who wins second
place. The rake structure 514 preferably applies to both tournament
and ring game profiles and generally varies the percent of a pot or
percent of a buy-in dependent upon the pot size or total buy-in
amount collected for a particular tournament.
[0310] Referring to FIGS. 56 and 57, when the administrator tool
300 is used to create a blind structure 510 for a tournament game
profile 492, the "+" symbol adjacent to profile types 302 in the
option field 308 is first selected by the floor manager, then the
"+" symbol adjacent to the game profiles heading 318 is selected.
Selection of heading 318 causes the drop-down listing of game
profiles 492 to appear. The floor manager then selects the
tournament game profile to be modified. When the "+" symbol
adjacent to the tournament game profile is elected, the
administrator tool 300 reveals a drop-down listing that preferably
lists optional selections 516 for the blind structure 510, the
payout structure 512 (see FIG. 61) and the rake structure 514 (see
FIG. 64).
[0311] Selection of the blind structure 510 of the selections 516
for a particular tournament game profile 492 causes blind structure
information to be listed in the information field 310. The floor
manager then selects the new icon 322 in the tool bar 312 that
causes a create blind structure prompt 518 to appear (see FIG. 58).
Preferably, the blind structure prompt 518 has the following fields
for the floor manager to enter data: [0312] level field 520, [0313]
ante field 522, [0314] bring-in field 524, [0315] small blind field
526, [0316] big blind field 528, [0317] small wager field 530, and
[0318] big wager field 532.
[0319] Fields 520-532 of the blind structure prompt 518 correspond
to column headings 534 in the information field 310 when the blind
structure in the options field 308 is highlighted. In prompt 518,
the floor manager enters an integer number representing the level
being created in the level field 520. Then a money amounts are
entered in the small and big blind fields 526, 528. The amount for
the smallest acceptable bet is entered into the small wager field
530 and the largest acceptable bet is entered into the big wager
field 532 for that particular level in the level field 520. As
illustrated in FIG. 59, an acceptable level is 1, an acceptable
small blind is 50.00 (representing dollars), an acceptable big
blind is 100.00, and acceptable small wager is 100.00 and an
acceptable big wager is 100.00. After selecting the "save" box 533
in the prompt 518, this process is repeated for each blind
structure 510 that the floor manager wants to create.
[0320] Referring to FIGS. 56 and 60, when the administrator tool
300 is used to create a payout structure 512 for a tournament game
profile 492, the "+" symbol adjacent to profile types 302 in the
option field 308 is first selected by the floor manager, then the
"+" symbol adjacent to the game profiles heading 318 is selected.
Selection of heading 318 causes the drop-down listing of game
profiles 492 to appear. The floor manager then selects the
tournament game profile to be modified. When the "+" symbol
adjacent to the tournament game profile is elected, the
administrator tool 300 reveals another drop-down listing that
preferably lists the optional selections 516 for the blind
structure 510, the payout structure 512 and the rake structure
514.
[0321] Selection of the payout structure 512 of the selections 516
for a particular tournament game profile 492 would cause payout
structure information to be listed in the information field 310 if
any exists at the time (see FIGS. 56 and 60). The floor manager
then selects the new icon 322 in the tool bar 312 that causes a
create payout structure prompt 536 to appear (see FIG. 61).
Preferably, the payout structure prompt 536 has the following
fields for the floor manager to enter data: [0322] place field 538,
[0323] percent field 540, and [0324] amount field 542.
[0325] Fields 538-542 of the payout structure prompt 536 may
correspond to column headings (not shown) in the information field
310 if previous payout records existed when the payout structure in
the options field 308 is highlighted. In prompt 536, the floor
manager enters an integer number representing the winning placement
of the player in the place field 520. For example, if there are
only first and second place winners that are awarded money, then
the floor manager would not enter a three which would designate a
third place winner. As best illustrated in FIG. 62, the floor
manager enters a one designating the first place winner then
selects the percent field 540 to enter the percent of a pot
received by the first place winner. The floor manager then selects
a "save" box 544 of the prompt 536 to same the first place setting.
The process beginning with selecting the new icon 322 is repeated
for each placement of winners (i.e. second place and so on).
[0326] Alternatively to a percentage of the pot, each placement of
winners could win a pre-designated sum of money. This is done by
selecting the amount field 542 of the payout structure prompt 536
instead of the percent field 540. Preferably, once either the
percent or amount fields 540, 542 are selected for one placement,
that field must apply to all winning placements.
[0327] Referring to FIGS. 63-65, when the administrator tool 300 is
used to create a rake structure 512 for a tournament or ring game
profile 492, the "+" symbol adjacent to profile types 302 in the
option field 308 is first selected by the floor manager, then the
"+" symbol adjacent to the game profiles heading 318 is selected.
Selection of heading 318 causes the drop-down listing of game
profiles 492 to appear. The floor manager then selects the
tournament game profile to be modified. When the "+" symbol
adjacent to a tournament game profile is selected, the
administrator tool 300 reveals another drop-down listing that
preferably lists the optional selections 516 for the blind
structure 510, the payout structure 512, and the rake structure
514. When the "+" symbol adjacent to a ring game profile is
selected, the administrator tool 300 reveals another drop-down
listing that preferably lists only the rake structure 514.
[0328] Selection of the rake structure 514 of the selections 516
for a particular tournament or ring game profile 492 causes the
listing of rake structure information 546 in the information field
310 if any exists at the time (see FIG. 64). The floor manager then
selects the new icon 322 in the tool bar 312 that causes a create
rake structure prompt 548 to appear (see FIG. 64). Preferably, the
rake structure prompt 548 has a pot size field 550 and a rake
amount field 552 for entry of data by the floor manager.
[0329] The pot size field 550 and the rake amount field 552 of the
rake structure prompt 548 preferably corresponds to column headings
554 in the information field 31. For a tournament game profile, the
floor manager enter the total buy-in amount for all the players
into the pot size field 550. For a ring game profile and as
illustrated in FIG. 65, the floor manager creates the rake
structure for each increment of the rake. For example, if the pot
size is ten dollars, the rake may be one dollar, if the pot size is
twenty dollars, the rake may be two dollars, and so on. The rake
structure 514 depends then on the maximum, possible pot size and/or
the maximum amount raked.
[0330] For each rake increment of the ring game profile 492, the
floor manager enters the pot size in the pot size field 550 of the
rake structure prompt 548, then the amount to be raked is entered
into the rake amount field 552. As illustrated in FIG. 65 for
example, the floor manager is creating a ninth record or increment
for a pot size of $55.50 and a rake amount of $6.00. The floor
manager then selects a "save" box 554 of the rake structure prompt
548 to save the settings. The process is generally completed after
this first iteration for tournament game profiles, and is repeated
beginning with the selection of the new icon 322 for each increment
of a ring game profile.
VIII. General Process and Software
[0331] 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.
[0332] 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.
[0333] 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.
[0334] 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.
[0335] 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.
[0336] 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.
[0337] 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.
[0338] 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.
[0339] 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
[0340] 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.
[0341] 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:
[0342] a) registration [0343] b) tracking tournament information
[0344] c) display of tournament information on central display
and/or remote display [0345] d) tournament set-up, e.g., buy-in
[0346] e) re buy-in [0347] f) tournament jackpot, cash or entry
voucher for entry another tournament (specific tournament or
expiration date) [0348] g) Process for breaking tables: [0349] (1)
message that table is breaking [0350] (2) convey new seat
assignment [0351] (3) determination of breaking order [0352] (4)
display of breaking order [0353] h) display information on status
of other tables and players at other tables [0354] 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. [0355] j) multi-site tournaments [0356]
k) system for automatically paying players tournament winnings
based on tournament pay tables and their final position in the
tournament [0357] l) automatic posting of blinds and method to turn
on and off of automatic posting of blinds/missed blinds [0358] m)
method for automatically calculating allowed bet amounts in
pot-limit and no-limit betting structures [0359] n) automatic
varying of rake based upon number of players, time of day, type of
game and/or other criteria [0360] o) ability to offer rake
discounts to individual players [0361] 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. [0362] q)
database and network architecture allowing single and multi-site
networking and management of a plurality of automated poker [0363]
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 [0364] 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 [0365] t) options adjust speed of
play(speed of card shuffling, dealing, discarding, betting, etc.)
[0366] u) electronically transfer money from an account to the
table [0367] v) electronically transfer money to another [0368] w)
use of "cash card" to bring money to the table [0369] x) ability
for operator to view details of any and all tables [0370] y)
ability for operator to view details of any and all players
X. Virtual Gaming
[0371] 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.
[0372] 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.
[0373] 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. Alternative Embodiments
[0374] While the forms of the invention herein disclosed constitute
presently preferred embodiments, many others are possible. It is
not intended to mention all the possible equivalent forms or
ramifications of the invention. It is understood that the terms
used herein are merely descriptive rather than limiting, and that
various changes can be made without departing from the spirit or
scope of the invention.
* * * * *