U.S. patent application number 11/428848 was filed with the patent office on 2007-01-04 for methods and apparatus for facilitating a flat rate play session and for extending same.
Invention is credited to Magdalena M. Fincham, James A. Jorasch, Thomas M. Sparico, Robert C. Tedesco, Jay S. Walker.
Application Number | 20070004503 11/428848 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 35800646 |
Filed Date | 2007-01-04 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070004503 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Walker; Jay S. ; et
al. |
January 4, 2007 |
METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR FACILITATING A FLAT RATE PLAY SESSION AND
FOR EXTENDING SAME
Abstract
The present invention is directed generally to a method and
apparatus for operating a gaming device having a flat rate play
session costing a flat rate price. The flat rate play session spans
multiple plays on the gaming device over a pre-established
duration. The gaming device identifies price parameters and
determines the flat rate price of playing the gaming device based
on those price parameters. In one embodiment, identifying price
parameters includes receiving player selected price parameters. In
another embodiment, price parameters further incorporate operator
selected price parameters. Should the player decide to pay the flat
rate price, the player simply deposits the necessary funds into the
gaming device or makes a credit account available for the gaming
device to debit. Once the player initiates play, the gaming device
tracks the duration remaining in the flat rate play session and
stops the play when the given period has elapsed. During the play,
payouts are made either directly to the player in the form of coins
or indirectly in the form of credits to the player's credit
account.
Inventors: |
Walker; Jay S.; (Ridgefield,
CT) ; Sparico; Thomas M.; (New York, NY) ;
Jorasch; James A.; (New York, NY) ; Tedesco; Robert
C.; (Fairfield, CT) ; Fincham; Magdalena M.;
(Ridgefield, CT) |
Correspondence
Address: |
WALKER DIGITAL
2 HIGH RIDGE PARK
STAMFORD
CT
06905
US
|
Family ID: |
35800646 |
Appl. No.: |
11/428848 |
Filed: |
July 6, 2006 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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11254352 |
Oct 20, 2005 |
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11428848 |
Jul 6, 2006 |
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10001089 |
Nov 2, 2001 |
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11254352 |
Oct 20, 2005 |
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09518760 |
Mar 3, 2000 |
6319127 |
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10001089 |
Nov 2, 2001 |
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08880838 |
Jun 23, 1997 |
6077163 |
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09518760 |
Mar 3, 2000 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
463/25 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G07F 17/3244 20130101;
G07F 17/32 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
463/025 |
International
Class: |
A63F 9/24 20060101
A63F009/24 |
Claims
1. A method for providing a gaming session of a wagering game using
a gaming device comprising the steps of: outputting an indication
of at least one flat rate price package, each of the at least one
flat rate price packages defining a respective at least one
predetermined price parameter and thereby defining at least one
flat rate play session; receiving a selection of one of the at
least one flat rate price package, thereby determining a selected
flat rate play session; receiving a payment corresponding to a
price of the selected flat rate play session; and authorizing play
of a gaming device in accordance with the selected flat rate play
session.
2-19. (canceled)
Description
CLAIM OF PRIORITY
[0001] The present application is a continuation-in-part
application of commonly-owned, co-pending patent application Ser.
No. 10/001,089 entitled GAMING DEVICE FOR A FLAT RATE PLAY SESSION
AND A METHOD OF OPERATING SAME and filed Nov. 2, 2001; which is a
continuation-in-part application of U.S. Pat. No. 6,319,127
entitled GAMING DEVICE FOR A FLAT RATE PLAY SESSION AND A METHOD OF
OPERATING SAME and filed Mar. 3, 2000; which is a continuation of
U.S. Pat. No. 6,077,163 entitled GAMING DEVICE FOR A FLAT RATE PLAY
SESSION AND A METHOD OF OPERATING SAME and filed Jun. 23, 1997.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention relates generally to the structure and
operation of at least one gaming device, such as a slot machine,
wherein a flat rate price purchases a flat rate play session
comprising multiple plays.
[0004] 2. Description of Related Art
[0005] There are numerous types of gaming devices in use today.
Most of these gaming devices, such as slot machines, video
blackjack machines, video poker machines, and the like, require the
player of the device to purchase individual plays at a set cost or
wager per play. Because players can only purchase individual plays,
they may stop playing after any individual play. Furthermore,
having to purchase each individual play is inconvenient. Thus, a
need exists for a gaming device allowing more convenient and
efficient methods of play.
[0006] One scenario in which players seemingly purchase multiple
plays on a gaming device during a flat rate play session is entry
fee slot machine tournaments. Such tournaments typically involve
players paying a fee for a set period of play determined by the
casino. During such tournaments, each player plays a specific type
and denomination of machine, also determined by the casino, and
accumulates points rather than money. Those players accumulating
the most points are awarded prizes.
[0007] Although slot machine tournaments are popular with some
players, the tournaments are inflexible and not accommodating to
individual players preferences. The organizers set the time and
duration of the tournament, the cost to play, the amount wagered
per play, and the type of machines which are played. Furthermore,
the organizers must designate machines for the tournament. Because
these machines are available only to tournament players and not the
general public, the machine owners lose revenue for all machines
designated but not played during a tournament. Thus, a need still
exists for a gaming device which allows tournament style play
without comprising the revenue stream of a casino, particularly
where the player selects the time and duration of the period, the
amount wagered per play, and the particular gaming device
played.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] In accordance with one or more embodiments, a method
provides for outputting an indication of at least one flat rate
price package, each of the at least one flat rate price packages
defining a respective at least one predetermined price parameter
and thereby defining at least one flat rate play session. The
method further provides for receiving a selection of one of the at
least one flat rate price package, thereby determining a selected
flat rate play session as well as for receiving a payment
corresponding to a price of the selected flat rate play session,
and for authorizing play of a gaming device in accordance with the
selected flat rate play session. Various systems and apparatus for
facilitating the above method are also disclosed.
[0009] In accordance with the present invention, there is provided
a method, apparatus, and article of manufacture for providing a
gaming session using a gaming device. In one embodiment, the method
includes identifying at least one price parameter, determining a
flat rate price based upon the at least one identified price
parameter, and initiating a flat rate play session of the gaming
device upon receiving an indication of payment of the flat rate
price. The flat rate play session spans a pre-established
duration.
[0010] In one embodiment, the price parameter is a player selected
price parameter, such as the amount wagered per play, jackpot
structure, length of the flat rate play session, the type of gaming
device, time of day, day of the week, and day of the year. In
another embodiment, the price parameter is an operator selected
price parameter, such as player status rating, availability of
gaming devices, and anticipated availability of gaming devices.
[0011] A gaming device is also disclosed. In one embodiment, the
gaming device comprises a player interface and a processor coupled
thereto. The player interface is capable of receiving player input,
such as a player selected price parameter. The processor is
configured to determine a flat rate price based on the player input
for initiating and operating the gaming device during the flat rate
play session.
[0012] A gaming system is also disclosed. In one embodiment, the
gaming system includes multiple gaming devices, each having a
player interface, a controller coupled to each of the gaming
devices and a processor coupled to each of the player interfaces.
The player interfaces receive at least one player selected price
parameter and an indication of player selection of a flat rate play
session lasting a pre-established duration upon receipt of a flat
rate payment. The controller communicates with the gaming devices
and includes a memory device in which player information is stored.
The processor is configured to determine the flat rate price based
on the player selected price parameter. The processor is also
configured to initiate the flat rate play session upon receipt of
the flat rate payment.
[0013] A method of playing a gaming device is also disclosed. The
method includes the steps of selecting to play the gaming device in
an optional timed mode of operation for a flat rate price. The
method also includes the step of providing a player selected price
parameter. The flat rate price is based on the player selected
price parameter. The method further includes the steps of paying
the flat rate price and initiating operation of the gaming device
in the timed mode of play.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] FIG. 1 is an overall schematic view of a system according to
one embodiment of the present invention, including a slot machine
and a slot network server;
[0015] FIG. 2a is a schematic view of the slot machine of FIG.
1;
[0016] FIG. 2b is a plan view of the slot machine of FIG. 1;
[0017] FIG. 3 is a schematic view of the slot network server of
FIG. 1;
[0018] FIG. 4 is a schematic view of a casino player database of
the server of FIG. 3;
[0019] FIG. 5 is a schematic view of the flat rate database of the
slot machine of FIG. 2;
[0020] FIG. 6 is a schematic view of the payout table of the slot
machine of FIG. 2;
[0021] FIG. 7 is a schematic view of the calculation table of the
slot machine of FIG. 2;
[0022] FIGS. 8a and 8b are overall flow diagrams of the operation
of the system of FIG. 1;
[0023] FIG. 9 is a detailed flow diagram of the operation of the
system of FIG. 1;
[0024] FIG. 10 is a flow diagram of the process of terminating play
of the system of FIG. 1;
[0025] FIGS. 11a and 11b are flow diagrams of the process of
resuming play of the system of FIG. 1;
[0026] FIGS. 12a and 12b are overall flow diagrams of the operation
of another embodiment of the present invention;
[0027] FIG. 13 is a flow diagram of the process of receiving a
payout in the embodiment of FIG. 12;
[0028] FIG. 14 is a schematic view of the flat rate price package
database of the slot machine of FIG. 2; and
[0029] FIG. 15 is an overall flow diagram of the operation of
another embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0030] Certain preferred embodiments of the present invention will
now be described in greater detail with reference to the drawings.
Although the embodiments discussed herein are directed to reel slot
machines, it should be understood that the present invention is
equally applicable to other gaming devices, such as video poker
machines, video blackjack machines, video roulette, video keno and
the like.
[0031] The present invention is directed generally to a method and
apparatus for operating a gaming device having a flat rate play
session. As used herein, flat rate play session is defined as a
period of play wherein the player need not make funds available for
any play during the play session. The flat rate play session spans
multiple plays of the gaming device. These multiple plays are
aggregated into intervals or segments of play. It is to be
understood that the term interval as used herein could be time,
handle pulls, and any other segment in which slot machine play
could be divided. For example, two hours, one hundred spins, fifty
winning spins, etc. A player enters player identifying information
and player selected price parameters at a gaming device. The price
parameters define the flat rate play session, describing the
duration of play, machine denomination, jackpots active, etc. The
gaming device stores the player selected price parameters and
proceeds to retrieve the flat rate price of playing the gaming
device for the flat rate play session. The player selected price
parameters, in combination with operator price parameters,
determine the flat rate price. Should the player decide to pay the
flat rate price, the player simply deposits that amount into the
gaming device or makes a credit account available for the gaming
device to debit. For example, it might cost twenty-five dollars to
play for half an hour. Once the player initiates play, the gaming
device tracks the flat rate play session and stops the play when
the session is completed, usually when a time limit has expired.
During the play session, the player is not required to deposit any
coins. Payouts are made either directly to the player in the form
of coins or indirectly in the form of credits to the credit balance
stored in the machine. It should be understood that the player
balance could be stored in a number of mediums, such as smart
cards, credit card accounts, debit cards, and hotel credit
accounts. For example, a player balance may be stored on a server
device, such as a slot network server.
[0032] With reference to FIG. 1, a system 100 according to one
embodiment of the present invention is shown. In general, the
system 100 comprises multiple slot machines 102 and a slot network
server 106. In the present embodiment, each slot machine 102, which
is uniquely identified by a machine identification (ID) number,
communicates with the slot network server 106 via a slot network
104. The slot network 104 is preferably a conventional local area
network controlled by the server 106. It is to be understood,
however, that other arrangements in which the slot machines 102
communicate with the server 106 are within the scope of the present
invention.
[0033] As will be described in greater detail below, in one
embodiment, the slot machine 102 communicates player identifying
information to the slot network server 106. The slot network server
106, in turn, verifies the player identifying information. The slot
machine 102 also calculates a flat rate price based on both player
selected and casino determined price parameters and displays the
flat rate price to the player. The player may then accept the flat
rate price and initiate play. In another embodiment, the present
invention may be practiced without server 106, in an arrangement in
which the slot machine 102 calculates the flat rate price.
[0034] With reference to FIG. 2a, the slot machine 102 will now be
described in greater detail. The slot machine 102 contains a
Central Processing Unit (CPU) 210, a clock 212, and an operating
system 214 (typically stored in memory as software). The CPU 210
executes instructions of a program stored in Read Only Memory (ROM)
216 for playing the slot machine 102. The Random Access Memory
(RAM) 218 temporarily stores information passed to it by the CPU
210 during play. Also in communication with the CPU 210 is a Random
Number Generator (RNG) 220.
[0035] With respect to gaming operations, the slot machine 102
operates in a conventional manner. The player starts the machine
102 by inserting a coin into coin acceptor 248, or using electronic
credit, and pressing the starting controller 222. Of course, as
would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art upon
reading the present disclosure, the coin acceptor 248 may, in some
embodiments, also include a bill acceptor for accepting bills or
another type of currency. Under control of a program stored, for
example in a data storage device 224 or ROM 216, the CPU 210
initiates the RNG 220 to generate a number. The CPU 210 looks up
the generated random number in a stored probability table 226,
which contains a list which matches random numbers to corresponding
outcomes, and finds the appropriate outcome. Based on the
identified outcome, the CPU 210 locates the appropriate payout in a
stored payout table 228. The CPU 210 also directs a reel controller
230 to spin reels 232, 234, 236 and to stop them at a point when
they display a combination of symbols corresponding to the
appropriate payout. When the player wins, the machine stores the
credits in RAM 218 and displays the current balance in video
display area 238. In an alternate embodiment, the slot machine 102
dispenses the coins to a payout tray (not shown), and in another
embodiment, the slot network server 106 stores the player
credits.
[0036] A hopper controller 240 is connected to a hopper 242 for
dispensing coins. When the player requests to cash out by pushing a
cashout button (not shown) on the slot machine 102, the CPU 210
checks the RAM 218 to see if the player has any credit and, if so,
signals the hopper controller 240 to release an appropriate number
of coins into a payout tray (not shown). A coin acceptor 248 is
also coupled to the CPU 210. Each coin received by the coin
acceptor 248 is registered by the CPU 210.
[0037] In alternate embodiments, the slot machine 102 does not
include the reel controller 230 and reels 232, 234 and 236.
Instead, a video display area 238 graphically displays
representations of objects contained in the selected game, such as
graphical reels, playing cards or, as described below, options
which a player may select pursuant to the purchase of a flat rate
play session (e.g., player-selected price parameters,
pre-established flat rate packages as designed by the casino).
Thus, in some embodiments, video display area 238 may comprise a
touch-sensitive display screen, as is known in the art, such that
video display area 238 may operate to output representations of
objects, as well as receive input from a player (e.g., indicating a
selection of an object represented by the display). In some
embodiments, representations may be animated to display playing of
the selected game.
[0038] Also in communication with the CPU 210 is a player tracking
device 260. The tracking device 260 comprises a card reader 266 for
reading player identifying information stored on a player tracking
card. As used herein, the term player identifying information
denotes any information or compilation of information that uniquely
identifies a player. In the present embodiment, the identifying
information is a player identification (ID) number. Although not so
limited, the player tracking card of the present embodiment stores
the player ID on a magnetic strip located thereon. Such a magnetic
strip and device to read the information stored on the magnetic
strip are well known. Again, a player tracking card is not limited
to a card that stores the player ID on a magnetic strip. For
example in some embodiments, a player tracking card may comprise a
smart card equipped with a memory for storing such data. In other
embodiments, players may identify themselves to system 100 in a
variety of other manners, such as by entering one or more PIN codes
via a slot machine, providing a paper ticket which encodes a player
identifier, providing a biometric for measurement, and so on.
[0039] The player tracking device 260 also includes a display 262
and a player interface 264. The player interface 264 may include a
keypad and/or a touchscreen display. In operation, as discussed
below, the slot machine 102 displays a message prompting the player
to enter player selected price parameters. In the present
embodiment, a player may enter the player selected price parameters
via the player interface 264. Because the player interface 264 is
part of the tracking device 260, it is, therefore, in communication
with the CPU 210. Alternatively, input of selected price parameters
may be accomplished through video display area 238 if it is
configured with touch screen capabilities.
[0040] The slot machine 102 also includes a series of bet buttons
272, 274, 276. The bet buttons include "Bet 1 coin" 272, "Bet 2
coins" 274, and "Bet 3 coins" 276. The bet buttons 272, 274, 276
are coupled to the CPU 210. Therefore, pressing one transmits a
signal to the CPU 210 indicating how much a player is wagering on a
given play. As would be understood upon a reading of the present
description, it should be appreciated that video display area 238
may output player-selectable representations of such buttons.
[0041] The databases stored in the data storage device 224 include
a probability table 226, a calculation table 227, a payout table
228, a flat rate price package database 229, and a flat rate
database 246. As discussed in greater detail below, the flat rate
database 246 and the calculation table 227 store information
related to the flat rate play session and calculation of the flat
rate price, respectively. The flat rate price package database 229
stores information describing different pre-established flat rate
packages as custom designed by the casino.
[0042] Also connected to the CPU 210 is a slot network interface
250. The slot network interface 250 provides a communication path
from the slot machine 102 to slot network server 106 through the
slot network 104. Thus, as discussed in greater detail below,
information is communicated among the player tracking card, player
tracking device 260, slot machine 102, and slot network server 106.
With reference to FIG. 2b, the plan view of slot machine 102, will
now be described below. FIG. 2b depicts slot machine 102 displaying
player selected price parameter options on video display area 238.
Included in the displayed parameters is amount wagered per play
712, interval 714, duration of interval 722, and active pay
combinations 720. As will be described further below, after the
player has selected the desired price parameters, the slot machine
102 displays a flat rate price 724. Once the player has accepted
the fiat rate price and made the appropriate funds available, play
may commence.
[0043] The slot network server 106 will now be described in greater
detail with reference to FIG. 3. Like the slot machine 102 of FIG.
2, the slot network server 106 has a Central Processing Unit (CPU)
310. The CPU 310, which has a clock 312 associated therewith,
executes instructions of a program stored in Read Only Memory (ROM)
320. During execution of the program instructions, the CPU 310
temporarily stores information in the Random Access Memory (RAM)
330.
[0044] Additionally, the CPU 310 is coupled to a data storage
device 340, having a flat rate database 246, transaction processor
342 and a casino player database 344. In general, the transaction
processor 342 manages the contents of the data storage devices 340.
As discussed in detail below, the casino player database 344 stores
information specific to each player, including player identifying
information.
[0045] Of course, as would be understood by one of ordinary skill
in the art of computer programming upon reading the present
description, different and/or additional databases, database
structures, database configurations and/or data may be used to
implement embodiments described herein, different from that
explicitly described herein.
[0046] In order to communicate with the slot machines 102, the slot
network server 106 also includes a communication port 350. The
communication port 350 is coupled to the CPU 310 and a slot machine
interface 360. Thus, the CPU 310 can control the communication port
350 to receive information from the data storage device 340 and RAM
330 and transmit the information to the slot machines 102 and vice
versa.
[0047] It is to be understood that because the slot machines 102
are in communication with the slot network server 106, information
stored in a slot machine 102 may be stored in the server 106 and
vice versa. Thus, for example, in an alternate embodiment, the
server 106 rather than the slot machine 102 includes the payout
table 228, flat rate database 246, and/or calculation table 227.
The casino player database 344 of the present embodiment, as shown
in FIG. 4, includes multiple records having multiple fields of
information. Specifically, the casino player database 344 comprises
multiple records, each record being associated with a particular
player, as identified by a player identification (ID) number. The
fields within each record include: player identification (ID)
number 410, social security number 412, name 414, address 416,
telephone number 418, credit card number 420, credit balance 422,
complimentary information, such as total accumulated complimentary
points 424, whether the player is a hotel guest 426, player status
rating 428, and value of interval remaining 430. Having information
related to one field, such as player ID 410, allows the slot
network server 106 to retrieve all information stored in
corresponding fields of that player record.
[0048] It is to be understood that not all of these identifying
fields are necessary for operation of the present embodiment. For
example, the name 414, social security number 412, address 416,
telephone number 418, credit card number 420, and hotel guest 426
fields are merely representative of additional information that may
be stored and used for other purposes. In one embodiment, credit
card number 420 and hotel guest 426 are used for billing purposes
and social security number 412 is used to generate tax forms when a
player wins a jackpot over a given amount.
[0049] Complimentary points awarded 424 is further illustrative of
additional information a casino may store in a players record. As
described below, a players complimentary points are displayed to
the player when a player tracking card is inserted into the slot
machine 102. In an alternate embodiment, such points may be used in
addition, or as an alternative to the credit balance 422 stored in
RAM 218 of slot machine 102.
[0050] The player status rating 428 contains information
representative of the particular players relative importance to the
casino, as based upon the frequency and duration of the players
visits, the amount of money wagered, and the like.
[0051] The value of interval remaining field 430 stores the value
of interval remaining in a flat rate play session when a player
terminates the play session prior to its expiration. This field
will be described in greater detail below.
[0052] The flat rate database 246 will now be described in greater
detail with reference to FIG. 5. The flat rate database 246
comprises multiple records, each record pertaining to the flat rate
play session of a particular player, as identified by that player's
ID number. Consequently, one field in flat rate database 246 is the
player ID number field 510. Other fields include: player selected
price parameters 512, flat rate price 514, interval remaining 516,
time audit data 518, and machine identification (ID) number field
520. The machine ID number field 520 contains the machine ID number
that uniquely identifies the slot machine 102. It is to be
understood that since both the casino player database 244 and the
flat rate database 246 include a player ID field, 410 and 510,
respectively, the system 100 can correlate any player information
stored in the flat rate database 246.
[0053] The payout table 228 will now be described in greater detail
with reference to FIG. 6. As shown in FIG. 6, the payout table 228
of the present embodiment can be logically represented by five
fields of related information. The first field, a pay combination
field 610, identifies the set of possible pay combinations for a
given slot machine 102. Such possible pay combinations include
winning pay combinations, or those in which a payout results, and
non-winning pay combinations, in which the player receives no
payout and consequently loses the amount wagered. Winning pay
combinations include, for example, "DOUBLE JACKPOT-DOUBLE
JACKPOT-DOUBLE JACKPOT" and "BAR-BAR-BAR." The pay combinations
field 610 also includes a "NON-WINNING OUTCOMES" record, an entry
representing the outcomes which result in no payout to the player,
such as "PLUM-BELL-ORANGE." The payout table 228 also includes
three payout fields 620, 630, 640. Such payout fields 620, 630, 640
contain the payout information for each of the possible pay
combinations identified in the pay combinations field 610. Each of
the payout fields 620, 630, 640 is identified by the number of
coins wagered on a particular play, as selected via the bet buttons
272, 274, 276. It should be understood based on a reading of the
present disclosure that, in some embodiments, a number of coins
wagered per play may be selected only once (e.g., at the beginning
of a flat rate play session) such the wager may be placed
automatically without requiring repeated selection from a player.
This should be understood since, as described herein, in some
embodiments a player establishing a flat rate play session defines
the amount to be wagered per play. Further, in some embodiments, a
number of coins wagered per play (and a denomination of coins) may
comprise a player-selected price parameter and/or casino-selected
price parameter, as is described below. In the present embodiment,
payout table 228 contains a "1 coin" payout field 620, which is
accessed when one coin is wagered, a "2 coins" payout field 630,
which is accessed when two coins are wagered, and a "3 coins"
payout field 640, which is accessed when three coins are wagered.
In other words, each field 620, 630, 640 corresponds to a bet
button 272, 274, 276, respectively. The payout information provides
the number of coins won upon the occurrence of a particular pay
combination. Thus, "CHERRY-CHERRY-CHERRY" pays out ten coins when
one coin is wagered.
[0054] Finally, the payout table 228 of the present embodiment
includes a pay combination status field 650. The pay combination
status field 650 includes an indication for each winning pay
combination, identified in the pay combination field 610, of
whether the player is eligible to win the payout for each outcome.
As will be described below, the determination of whether a player
is eligible to win a payout for a given outcome is made, in some
embodiments, by the player as part of the player selected price
parameters.
[0055] The calculation table 227 will now be described in greater
detail with reference to FIG. 7. The calculation table 227 is used
by the system 100 in determining the flat rate price 724 (field 514
in the flat rate database 246) charged to the player. Specifically,
the calculation table 227 contains multiple price parameters which
are correlated to a flat rate price 724. More specifically, these
price parameters include player selected price parameters and
operator selected price parameters. In general, player selected
price parameters include any game related variable that defines the
flat rate play session. Furthermore, operator selected price
parameters are parameters which the operator of the slot machines
102 selects as affecting the flat rate price 724. Thus, in the
present embodiment, the player selected price parameters in the
calculation table 227 include machine type 710, amount wagered per
play 712, active pay combinations 720, and length of the flat rate
play session 722. The operator selected price parameters in the
calculation table 227 include player status rating 714, time of day
716, day of the week 718, and machine usage 719. Of course, as
would be understood at least because of the usage of the term
"include" in the immediately prior sentence, other price parameters
may be considered. For example, additional examples of a price
parameter (whether player or operator selected) include, but are
not limited to, the following (i) the standard deviation of payouts
associated with a slot machine (e.g., larger standard deviations
may put upward pressure on package pricing), (ii) whether or not a
slot machine offers one or more "progressive" jackpots, and so on.
In the present embodiment the flat rate price 724 is predetermined
based upon the aforementioned price parameters and stored in the
calculation table 227, as will be described later in FIGS. 14 and
15. In an alternate embodiment the flat rate price 724 is
calculated based upon these parameters as needed according to a
price algorithm stored in memory. For example, the price algorithm
may operate as follows:
[0056] Algorithm for calculating a flat rate price.
[0057] The first step is to determine a "base" flat rate price.
This would be calculated as follows:
[0058] Price=(amount wagered).times.(interval).times.(expected
coins awarded for all active pay combinations/amount wagered per
play.times.cycle). For example, the following base calculation
represents a player selecting three dollar coins per handle pull,
an interval of 500 handle pulls, top three pay combinations active:
Base Price=($3).times.(500).times.(2,160/10,648)-$304.28
[0059] Further, this base flat rate price is adjusted by operator
price parameters such as the following:
1. Time of Day (TD)
[0060] Times of the day in which the casino traffic tends to be
heavy should result in the player paying a premium for the flat
rate session, while quiet times in the casino should offer the
player a discount over normal rates. TABLE-US-00001 Midnight to 4
am 70% 4 am to 8 am 80% 8 am to 12 pm 90% 12 pm to 4 pm 100% 4 pm
to 8 pm 120% 8 pm to Midnight 140%
2. Day of Week (DW)
[0061] With the heaviest volume of visitors falling on Fridays and
Saturdays, these days will necessitate higher flat rate session
costs. For example: TABLE-US-00002 Monday to Thursday 80% Friday
120% Saturday 140% Sunday 100%
3. Player Status Rating (PSR)
[0062] For top customers such as high rollers, the cost of a flat
rate session may be reduced as a customer retention tool. For
example: TABLE-US-00003 1 (High Roller) 80% 2 (Good customer) 90% 3
(Average) 100% 4 (Low) 120%
4. Slot Machine Usage (SMU)
[0063] When the majority of slot machines in the casino are being
used, a premium is applied to the cost of the flat rate play
session in order to more evenly distribute play. For example:
TABLE-US-00004 Heavy 120% Moderate 100% Light 80%
Sample Calculation
[0064] In addition to the above player selected price parameters,
the following operator selected parameters are incorporated into
the price: The player is in the casino at 2 am on a Wednesday,
there is low slot machine usage, and the player has an average
rating. The calculations below reflect these conditions.
[0065] The casino may round up this price to $137 to avoid the need
for small change.
[0066] As will be understood by those skilled in the art, the
ultimate goal of slot machine players is to hit a jackpot payout.
The enjoyment of the play, as well as the ability to maximize the
chance of hitting a large jackpot, is increased by more play. Play
can be increased both by playing longer, and by playing faster. As
will be appreciated from a consideration of the process described
below, the present invention permits both increased duration, by
providing for play at discounted prices, and speed of play, by
providing for minimal time delays between plays.
[0067] The flat rate price package database 229 will now be
described in greater detail with reference to FIG. 14. The flat
rate price package database 229 is used by the system 100 in
providing the player with different price package options for flat
rate play of the slot machine 100. Specifically, the flat rate
price package database 229 contains multiple combinations, or
packages 1410, of price parameters which correspond to
pre-established flat rate prices. More specifically, these price
parameters include but are not limited to, interval 1412, duration
of flat rate play 1414, amount wagered per play 1416, and pay
combination status 1418. Each combination of price parameters has
corresponding flat rate play session prices 1420. As will be
described later in FIG. 15, the flat rate price package database
229 is accessed when the player determines he wishes to initiate a
flat rate play session. Rather than let the player choose the price
parameters, the slot machine 100 lists the different packages
stored in the flat rate price package database 229. The player then
chooses the package he likes the most and play commences.
[0068] Having thus described the components of the present
embodiment, the operation of the system 100 will now be described
in greater detail with reference to FIGS. 8-11, and continuing
reference to FIGS. 1-7. It is to be understood that the programs
stored in ROM 320 of the slot network server 106 and ROM 216 of the
slot machine 102 provide the function described below.
[0069] Turning first to FIGS. 8a and 8b, the general operation of
the system 100 will be described. As shown in step 810, the slot
machine player first inserts the player tracking card into the card
reader 266. The card reader 266 then proceeds to read player
identifying information from the tracking card. The player
identifying information, namely the player ID number, is
communicated from the slot machine 102 to the slot server 106 in
step 812.
[0070] Upon receiving the player identifying information, the slot
network server 106 verifies the information in step 814. Such
verification includes the slot network server 106 searching the
casino player database 344 for a record containing the received
player ID number in the appropriate field 410. Once the slot
network server 106 verifies the player identifying information, the
server 106 transmits a signal to the slot machine 102 acknowledging
such verification in step 816. In alternate embodiments, other
information, such as the players name 414, complimentary point
total 424, and player status rating 428 are transmitted to the slot
machine 102 for display.
[0071] In step 818, the player selects flat rate play via the
player interface 264. The CPU 210 of slot machine 102, in step 820,
then receives a signal from the player interface 264, indicating
that the player has selected flat rate play. For example, there
could be a button specifically for triggering a flat rate play
session. The CPU 210, in response, accesses memory to retrieve
player selectable price parameters. Player selectable price
parameters are the choices available to a player for entering the
player selected price parameters. These player selectable price
parameters are controlled by a program stored in ROM 216. Such
player selectable price parameters, in the present embodiment,
include the amount wagered per play, (e.g. one, two, or three
coins), the length of the flat rate play session, and possible
jackpot structures, such as having only the "DOUBLE JACKPOT" and "5
BAR" jackpots active (as illustrated in the payout table 228 of
FIG. 6). In an alternate embodiment, the player selectable price
parameters are stored as part of the calculation table 227.
[0072] Then, as shown in step 822, the slot machine 102 displays
the player selectable price parameters to the player. For example,
the parameters could be listed on the video display area 238 for
the player, as described previously in FIG. 2b. Once the parameters
appear, the player simply selects his desired settings.
Alternatively, the player may accept one or more default settings.
Once the player selectable price parameters are displayed on the
display 238, the player proceeds, in step 824, to enter player
selected price parameters via the player interface 264. The player
selected price parameters also include data which, although not
directly inputted by the player, is selected by the player and
identified by the slot machine 102. In the present embodiment, such
additional player selected price parameters include type of
machine, time of day, and day of the week.
[0073] It is to be understood that the casino operator of the slot
machines 102 may define the scope of the player selectable price
parameters, and therefore limit the player selected price
parameters in any manner. For example, the length of flat rate play
may be limited to periods above a minimum time or to periods that
are multiples of thirty minute intervals. The jackpot structure may
require that some jackpots remain active.
[0074] Referring now to FIG. 8b, the slot machine 102 CPU 210
receives the player selected price parameters in step 826. Having
received the player selected parameters, the CPU 210 then stores
the player selected price parameters, the player identifying
information, and the slot machine's machine ID number in a record
in the flat rate database 246. Specifically, the player ID number
is stored in field 510, the machine ID number is stored in field
520, and the player selected price parameters are stored in field
512. Although the player selected price parameters are illustrated
as being stored in a single field (512), it is to be understood
that each player selected price parameter may be stored in a
separate field. It is also to be understood that in alternate
embodiments the player selected price parameters need not be stored
in a database, but could be stored in RAM 218.
[0075] The slot machine 102 CPU 210 uses the player selected price
parameters to determine the flat rate prices. Specifically, in step
828, the CPU 210 accesses the calculation table 227 and searches
for the flat rate price 724 corresponding to the received player
selected price parameters 512, which, in the present embodiment,
include machine type 710, amount wagered per play 712, time of day
716, day of the week 718, active jackpots 720, and the length of
the flat rate play session 722. The CPU 210 also incorporates
operator selected price parameters for the flat rate price 724 such
as player status rating 714 and machine availability 719. As will
be appreciated by one skilled in the art, the player status rating
714 is received from the casino player database 344 at any time
prior to determination of the flat rate price 724. Thus, in a
preferred embodiment, the slot network server 106 transmits the
player status rating 428 to the slot machine 102 along with the
verification signal in step 816.
[0076] By including the player status rating 714 in the calculation
table 277, a casino may reward frequent players who wager
relatively large amounts of money with a lower flat rate price 724.
Thus, the system 100 rewards and encourages frequent play. By
including active jackpots 720 in the calculation table 348, the
system 100 allows a casino to discount the flat rate price 724 for
those players who choose to enable relatively few winning outcome
in the payout table 228. Furthermore, by including the price
parameters relating to time of day and day of the week in the
calculation table 227, a casino may charge a lower flat rate price
724 for sessions during weekday afternoons or between 2:00 a.m. and
8:00 a.m. in the mornings, thereby encouraging play of the slot
machines 102 when they are typically idle.
[0077] It is to be understood that the aforementioned price
parameters in the calculation table 227 are merely representative
of the type of variables that may be considered in determining a
flat rate price. Thus, it is within the scope of the present
invention to include only some of the price parameters, all of the
parameters, or additional parameters in the calculation table
227.
[0078] As mentioned above, the flat rate price may be based partly
upon the availability of slot machines 102. In such an embodiment,
the server 106 tracks whether each slot machine 102 is being used
by noting whether outcomes are currently being received from a
given slot machine 102. In another embodiment, the server 106
tracks slot machine availability by tabulating the number of slot
machines 102 for which flat rate play is currently enabled. In yet
another embodiment, the server 106 tracks slot machine availability
by identifying how many slot machines 102 have a player tracking
card inserted therein.
[0079] Another price parameter which may be used is predicted or
forecasted slot machine availability. Specifically, such a
parameter accounts for anticipated availability of slot machines
102 based upon events at the casino. For example, the calculation
table 227 correlates a lower flat rate price 724 to the time of day
716 corresponding to an event, such as a show which many casino
players attend. On the other hand, the calculation table 227
correlates a higher flat rate price to the time of day 716
corresponding to the end of the event or heavier casino traffic.
This enables a casino to effectively revenue manage their slot
machines without resorting to a change in hold percentage which
requires regulatory approval.
[0080] It is to be understood that accounting for slot machine
availability need not be accomplished in the calculation table 227.
Rather, in an alternate embodiment, a schedule of events is stored
in RAM 218 which is accessed prior to transmitting the flat rate
price 724 to the player. If the event schedule indicates that an
event is ending during the requested flat rate play session, then
the flat rate price 724 will be incremented accordingly.
[0081] In another embodiment, the flat rate price is based only on
operator selected price parameters. A slot machine 102 according to
such an embodiment could, for example, provide discounted flat rate
play sessions based on player status rating, thereby offering 100
plays for the price of 90 or discounted timed sessions. To
encourage repeat, high stakes play, higher player status ratings
result in greater discounts.
[0082] Having determined the flat rate price 724, the slot machine
102, in step 830, displays the duration of the flat rate play
session 722 and the flat rate price 724 and requests approval from
the player. Once the player accepts the terms of the flat rate play
session, flat rate play commences.
[0083] If the player does not approve the flat rate price 724, then
the player indicates so via the player interface 264. As indicated
by path A in FIGS. 8a and 8b, the slot machine 102 repeats its
operation from step 822. On the other hand, if the player approves
the flat rate price 724, the player indicates such approval via the
player interface 264 in step 832. Following such approval, the slot
machine 102 prompts the player to enter an appropriate amount of
money in step 834. In the present embodiment, the player deposits
coins into the coin acceptor 248 or, as would be understood by one
of ordinary skill in the art of payment acceptors in gaming
devices, a bill acceptor that may also be a component of the slot
machine 102. In one embodiment, the player deposits a casino token
as payment for the flat rate session. Such tokens may be
denominated in dollars, or represent a number of handle pulls. A
casino could thus sell a fifty handle pull token, usable on a
particular denomination and/or type of machine. Such a token may
additionally serve to activate the flat rate session, eliminating
the need for the player to select flat rate play via player
interface 264. Alternatively, the player's credit balance 422 may
be debited to pay for the flat rate play session. Other methods of
payment, such as tickets, vouchers, electronic currency, and so on,
would be understood as equivalents to those described by one of
ordinary skill in the art of payment accepting mechanisms for
gaming devices.
[0084] Once the CPU 210 registers the receipt of money, the CPU 210
reconfigures the slot machine 201 for the flat rate play session in
step 836. Specifically, the CPU 210 generates a signal, or a flag
in memory, indicating that there is no need to accept the coins
between plays. CPU 210 further sets the active field 650 in the
payout table 228 according to the jackpot structure entered by the
player.
[0085] The operation of the slot machine 102 during the flat rate
play session will now be described with reference to FIG. 9 and
continuing reference to FIGS. 1-7. During the flat rate play
session, a slot machine 102 operates generally as described above
with reference to FIG. 2. However, the slot machine 102 is
reconfigured to operate according to the player selected price
parameters, if such parameters affect play, and to operate
continuously, without requiring payment between each play (e.g., a
wager amount may or may not be deducted from a credit balance in
association with each play). Specifically, the flat rate play
session begins when the player presses the starting controller 222
in step 910. The CPU 210 also initiates a countdown of the length
of the flat rate play session as stored in the player selected
parameters field 512 of the flat rate database 246. With the start
of the session, the CPU 210 stores the start time of the flat rate
play session in the flat rate database 246. Specifically, the start
time is stored in the time audit data field 520 in step 912. In
step 914, the CPU 210 begins to count down the duration of the flat
rate play session. Next, in step 916, the slot machine 102
generates an outcome and accesses payout table 228 to determine the
appropriate corresponding number of coins to be paid out.
[0086] Furthermore, in step 918, after each outcome is generated,
the slot machine 102 determines whether the countdown of the
interval remaining 516 has reached zero. It is to be understood
that the countdown may be implemented in either software or
hardware. Additionally, it is understood that the countdown process
discussed herein may be replaced with any suitable means for
tracking the duration of the flat rate play session. Interval
remaining 516 may also represent the number of handle pulls
remaining.
[0087] In the event that the countdown has not reached zero, the
player presses the starting controller 222 in step 920, thereby
initiating another play of the slot machine 102. In the event that
the countdown has reached zero, the CPU 210 generates a signal
indicating that the flat rate play session has concluded. The slot
machine 102 displays a message indicating this to the player and,
in step 922, stores the end time of the session in the time audit
data field 518 of the flat rate database.
[0088] In an alternate embodiment, the player selected price
parameters include the "time between plays." In this embodiment the
CPU 210 of slot machine 102 controls the time between generating
outcomes of successive plays in the slot machine 102 to equal the
received "time between plays" player selected price parameter. In
another alternate embodiment, the slot machine 102 tracks the
number of plays during the flat rate play session. If the number of
plays exceeds a predetermined limit, the slot machine 102
automatically terminates the flat rate play session, regardless of
the duration of the flat rate play session.
[0089] Turning now to FIG. 10, the operation of the system 100 when
the player terminates the flat rate play session prior to the
expiration of the session will be described. In step 1010, the
player indicates a desire to terminate the flat rate play session
via the player interface 264. Consequently, the slot machine 102
CPU 210 receives a termination signal and, in step 1012, displays a
message to the player, asking the player to verify termination of
the flat rate play session. If the player does not verify
termination, then the session continues as described above with
reference to FIG. 9. On the other hand, if the player verifies
termination, shown as step 1014, the CPU 210 proceeds to store the
stop time in the time audit data field 518 of the flat rate
database 246 in step 1016.
[0090] It is to be understood that having both the start time and
the stop time of the flat rate play sessions stored in the flat
rate database 246 allows the casino to perform an audit of the
session. Specifically, should a player allege that the flat rate
play session was shorter than that which was paid for, the casino
may access the flat rate database 246 and retrieve the actual start
and stop time from the time audit data field 520. In the present
embodiment, this time includes an indication of the day, hour, and
minute of the play session.
[0091] Next, in step 1018, CPU 210 determines the value of the
interval remaining in the flat rate play session and transmits the
value to the server 106. In order to determine the value of the
interval remaining, the CPU 210 accesses the calculation table 227.
The value of interval remaining will equal the flat rate price 724
corresponding to the price parameters (i.e., the machine type 710,
amount wagered per play 712, player status rating 714, time of day
716, etc.) used to determine the original flat rate price charged
to the player. When determining the value of the interval
remaining, however, the value in the length of flat rate play
session field 722 is not the original length of the session, but
rather is equal to the actual interval remaining in the flat rate
play session. Stated succinctly, the slot machine 102 identifies
the flat rate price 724 corresponding to the actual interval
remaining in the flat rate play session.
[0092] Once the value of interval remaining is determined, the slot
machine 102 transmits the value to the slot network server 106.
Upon receiving the value of interval remaining, the server 106
stores the value in field 430 of the casino player database 344 in
the players record, as identified by the player ID number 410.
Storing the value is shown as step 1020. Finally, in step 1022, the
player removes the player tracking card.
[0093] The process of resuming play at another slot machine 102
will now be described with reference to FIGS. 11a and 11b. The
initial operation of the system 100, as indicated by steps
1110-1128, proceeds generally as described above with reference to
steps 810-828 of FIGS. 8a and 8b.
[0094] However, once the CPU 210 of slot machine 102 determines a
new flat rate price based on the relevant price parameters, the CPU
210 determines whether the player must deposit additional
funds.
[0095] Specifically, in step 1130, the CPU 210 compares the new
flat rate price 724 with the value of interval remaining 430. The
server 106 transmits the value of interval remaining 430, as stored
in the casino player database 344, to the slot machine 102 in step
1116 so that the comparison may be performed. As indicated by step
1132, the comparison involves determining whether the new flat rate
price 724 is higher than the value of interval remaining 430.
[0096] If the new price 724 is not higher than the value of
interval remaining 430, then, in step 1134, the slot machine allows
the player to play the flat rate session at no cost. However, if
the new flat rate price 724 is higher than the value of interval
remaining 430, then, in step 1136, the CPU 210 assigns the
difference in the two values as the new flat rate price. Thus, in
step 1138, the CPU 210 displays the new flat rate price on the
video display area 238 of the slot machine 102. Thereafter,
operation of the system continues as described above with reference
to steps 832-836 of FIG. 8b.
[0097] In an alternate embodiment, when a player terminates the
flat rate session early, the value of the interval remaining is
added to the player's credit balance, as stored in field 422 of the
casino player database 344. In yet another embodiment, by
terminating early, a player may forfeit this value.
[0098] It is to be understood that an embodiment of the present
invention need not include both a slot machine and slot network
server. For example, an embodiment employing only a slot machine
102 is within the scope of the present invention. Such an
embodiment will now be described with reference to FIGS. 12a, 12b,
and 13, and continuing reference to FIGS. 2, 5, and 7. Such an
embodiment utilizes the slot machine 102 of FIG. 2.
[0099] Initially, the player selects flat rate play on the slot
machine 102 in step 1210 (e.g., by selecting an option represented
by video display area 238). Once the player selects flat rate play,
the flat rate play signal is transmitted from the player interface
264 to the CPU 210 in step 1212. The CPU 210 then proceeds, in step
1214, to retrieve the player options for selectable price
parameters. Then, in step 1216, the CPU 210 transmits the player
selectable price parameter options to the video display area 238
for viewing.
[0100] Once the player selectable price parameter options have been
displayed to the player, the player inputs the player selected
price parameters through the player interface 264. Then, in step
1220, the CPU 210 receives the player selected price parameters
from the player interface 264. Alternately, as described in detail
herein, the player may select a predefined package of
casino-specified price parameters.
[0101] Once the CPU 210 receives the player selected price
parameters (or, as would be understood based at least on the
predetermined package embodiment described herein) receives the
selection of a predefined package), the CPU 210 reconfigures the
slot machine 102. Specifically, the CPU 210 generates a signal, or
a flag in memory, indicating that there is no need to accept the
coins between plays. CPU 210 further sets the pay combination
status field 650 in the payout table 228 according to the jackpot
structure entered by the player. In an alternate embodiment in
which the player selectable price parameters include the time
between the handle pulls, the CPU 210 sets an internal timer.
[0102] Furthermore, once the slot machine 102 CPU 210 receives the
player selected price parameters, it proceeds to access the
calculation table 227. By accessing the calculation table 227, the
CPU 210 retrieves the flat rate price for the flat rate play
session. Retrieving the flat rate price is shown as step 1224. Once
the CPU 210 retrieves the flat rate price, it proceeds to transmit
the price, the length of the flat rate play session, and payment
instructions to the video display area 238 for player viewing in
step 1226.
[0103] In step 1228, the player reads the data and instructions on
the video display area 238 and inserts money into the coin acceptor
248 or a bill acceptor (not shown) in order to initiate play of the
slot machine 102. In an alternate embodiment, the player enters a
stored value card such as a "smart card" into the card reader 266.
Such a smart card has the players credit balance stored thereon.
Payment using a smart card further entails the CPU 210 debiting the
players balance on the smart card by the amount of the flat rate
price. Further, the player may enter a credit card into the card
reader 266.
[0104] In step 1230, the CPU 210 generates a confirmed payment
message indicating that the player has deposited sufficient funds
to cover the flat rate price. Consequently, the CPU 210, in step
1232, sends the current time to both the video display area 238 and
the time audit field 518 of flat rate database 246. Next, in step
1234, the CPU 210 initiates the countdown of the interval remaining
in the flat rate play session as stored in field 516. The length of
the flat rate play session received from the player is initially
stored in field 516. The slot machine 102 decrements, or counts
down, this value as the flat rate play session begins.
[0105] As shown in step 1236, the flat rate play session continues
in accordance with the player selected price parameters, if such
parameters affect play, in step 1236. During such play, the CPU 210
stores and updates the player's accumulated credits in RAM 218. In
an alternate embodiment, the slot machine pays out jackpots as they
occur. Finally, in step 1238, the CPU 210 terminates the flat rate
play session when the countdown ends.
[0106] In an alternate embodiment, the interval of the flat rate
play session is not a time period, but rather is a maximum number
of plays. In such an embodiment, the slot machine 102 stores the
number of plays in the flat rate database 246, as described
previously in FIG. 9, and, in step 916, increments a counter for
each outcome generated. The counter may be implemented in either
software or hardware. Furthermore, in step 918, the slot machine
102 compares the number of plays stored in the flat rate database
246 to the value of the counter. If the value of the counter equals
the stored number of plays, then the flat rate play session is
terminated.
[0107] Turning now to FIG. 13, the process of receiving a payout
from the present embodiment will be described. As shown as step
1310, the flat rate play session ends upon the termination of the
countdown. Specifically, as shown in step 1312, the slot machine
102 CPU 210 terminates the flat rate play session by reconfiguring
the slot machine 102 to its default values. For example, the CPU
210 resets the pay combination status field 650 in the payout table
228 to reflect the original jackpot structure. The CPU 210 also
generates a signal indicating that coins must be received for each
play. In short, the player selected price parameters are no longer
in effect.
[0108] In step 1314, the CPU 210 checks the total credits
accumulated, as stored in the RAM 218, and transmits a payout
command to the hopper controller 240. Consequently, in step 1316,
the slot machine 102 pays out the total number of credits to the
player.
[0109] An alternate embodiment of the present invention will now be
described with reference to FIG. 15. The operation of slot machine
100, as indicated by steps 1510-1524 below, proceeds generally as
described with reference to FIG. 14. In this embodiment, the player
selects from a list of casino determined price packages, rather
than choosing individual price parameters. Each price package, as
stored in the flat rate price package database 229 described above,
is a combination of different price parameters which correspond to
a flat rate play session price.
[0110] In step 1510, the player presses a "flat rate play" button
on the slot machine 100 (or, as would be understood to be an
equivalent mechanism by one of ordinary skill in the art of input
devices for gaming devices, sends a signal using touch-sensitive
video display area 238). The slot machine 102 CPU 210 receives flat
rate play signal from the player interface 264 in step 1512. In
this case, the player interface is an actual "flat rate play"
button located on the outside of the slot machine 100. Next, in
step 1514, the CPU 210 access flat rate price package database 229
from data storage device 224. The CPU 210 then displays the player
selectable price packages on video display area 238 in step 1516.
It is to be understood that the CPU 210 need not display the
packages on the video display area 238, as those package options
could be displayed elsewhere on the body of the slot machine 100.
Alternatively, player interface 264 could incorporate several "flat
rate play" buttons, each representing a different flat rate price
package.
[0111] Next, in step 1518, the player selects the desired price
package via the player interface 264. Having already seen what the
price of the selected package is, the player then deposits the
appropriate amount of money into coin acceptor 248 (or inputs
monetary value into another mechanism for inputting monetary value
into the slot machine) in step 1520. For example, the player may
have chosen price package four which costs fifty dollars. In return
for fifty dollars deposited into the slot machine, the player
receives two hundred and fifty handle pulls, with three coins
wagered per pull, and with the top three jackpots active in his
flat rate play session. These parameters are specified in the flat
rate price package database 229.
[0112] In step 1522, the CPU 210 receives an indication of payment
from the coin acceptor 248 (or other mechanism for accepting
monetary value from a player) and reconfigures the parameters of
slot machine 100 to meet the specifications of the flat rate price
package selected by the player. Finally, in step 1524, flat rate
play begins.
[0113] It is noted that the flat rate price package database 229
could be located at the slot network server 106 and not at each
individual slot machine 100. When it is located at the server,
certain casino or operator selected parameters could be used to
determine the price. For example, there could be different flat
rate price packages for different times during the day which are
based on projected or actual casino traffic and/or slot machine
usage.
[0114] As will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art,
the key step in getting players to wager money on gaming devices,
such as slot machines, is to bring the players to the casino floor.
One way in which casinos can bring additional players to the casino
floor, and thereby increase total revenues, is by giving away free
samples or rewards with a minimum displacement of traditional
pay-per-play players. The present invention may be employed for
such a purpose.
[0115] In one embodiment, for example, the casino could declare a
free-play period. During the free-play period, likely chosen by the
casino to correspond to down time, when most gaming devices are
idle, players insert their player tracking cards into the gaming
devices and initiate play without being charged. Specifically, the
casino programs the calculation table 227 so that the flat rate
price 724 is zero for a given time of day 716 and day of the week
718. It is anticipated that during such a free-play period, the
casino will alter the jackpot structure, causing only a selected
jackpot to be active. Thus, the lure of free jackpots will bring
additional players to the casino floor who will likely continue
playing after the free-play period ends. A further benefit of this
embodiment is that it would incent players to become slot club
members. This would result in an increase of players who return to
the casino and the customer base which the casino markets to
through mailings.
[0116] It is also to be understood that play of the slot machines
during the free-play period need not occur as described above.
Thus, in an alternate embodiment, the reels 232, 234, 236 of the
slot machines 102 continuously spin, regardless of whether a player
has inserted a tracking card, with the server 106 periodically
signaling a jackpot on a random machine. Only when a player has
inserted a player tracking card is the jackpot awarded. The server
106 randomly selects a machine ID number and, if the machine 102 is
not being played by a pay-per-play player, the server 106 transmits
a signal to that slot machine 102 directing it to produce a winning
outcome.
[0117] In an alternate embodiment that achieves substantially the
same result of attracting additional players to the floor during
down times, the casino issues guests a player tracking card or a
smart card having a predetermined free credit balance associated
therewith. The casino could then restrict the day and time in which
the players could use the free card in a flat rate play session. In
another embodiment the cards provided to guests contain an
indication of time, rather than money, for use during a flat rate
play session.
[0118] Although the foregoing embodiments employ static jackpot
structure, which stay the same throughout the flat rate play
session, it is within the scope of the present invention to employ
dynamic jackpot structures, which change during the flat rate play
session. In one such embodiment, the dynamic jackpot structure
starts with a given number of active jackpots, as indicated in the
pay combination status field 650 of the payout table 228. As the
flat rate play session progresses, the number of active jackpots
changes. Specifically, as the interval remaining in the flat rate
play session decreases, fewer pay combinations are made active. In
other words, the slot machine 102 CPU 210 monitors the time and,
every fifteen minutes, for example, causes the pay combination
status field 650 to change from "active" to "inactive" for a given
pay combination 610. Alternatively, the CPU 210 changes the pay
combination status field 650 after a predetermined number of
plays.
[0119] As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, a
dynamic jackpot structure based on the time progression of the flat
rate play session can increase the revenue generated by the slot
machines 102. Specifically, such a dynamic jackpot structure could
be used with a flat rate play session whose duration is not a fixed
time, but rather a given number of plays. Because fewer jackpots
will be active as time progresses, players have an incentive to use
their fixed number of plays within a short time period. Stated
succinctly, the present invention increases speed of play.
[0120] In another embodiment, the jackpot structure is dynamic
based not on the progression of the flat rate play session, but
rather on the outcomes generated by the slot machine 102. One such
embodiment involves changing a particular jackpot from "active" to
"inactive" upon a player hitting the outcome corresponding to that
pay combination. For flat rate play session whose duration is not a
fixed time, but rather a given number of plays. Because fewer
jackpots will be active as time progresses, players have an
incentive to use their fixed number of plays within a short time
period. Stated succinctly, the present invention increases speed of
play.
[0121] In another embodiment, the jackpot structure is dynamic
based not on the progression of the flat rate play session, but
rather on the outcomes generated by the slot machine 102. One such
embodiment involves changing a particular jackpot from "active" to
"inactive" upon a player hitting the outcome corresponding to that
pay combination. For flat rate play session whose duration is not a
fixed time, but rather a given number of plays. Because fewer
jackpots will be active as time progresses, players have an
incentive to use their fixed number of plays within a short time
period. Stated succinctly, the present invention increases speed of
play.
[0122] In another embodiment, the jackpot structure is dynamic
based not on the progression of the flat rate play session, but
rather on the outcomes generated by the slot machine 102. One such
embodiment involves changing a particular jackpot from "active" to
"inactive" upon a player hitting the outcome corresponding to that
pay combination. For example, a player may begin the flat rate play
session with all jackpots active. On one play, the slot machine 102
generates a "CHERRY-CHERRY-CHERRY" outcome 610. Upon accessing the
payout table 228, the CPU 210 determines that ten coins are to be
paid out, credits the players accumulated credits accordingly, and
causes the pay combination status field 650 corresponding to the
"CHERRY-CHERRY-CHERRY" outcome 610 to change from "active" to
"inactive". Thus, a player can only hit a given jackpot once. As
will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, such a dynamic
jackpot structure will allow slot machine operators to further
discount the flat rate price to attract additional players.
Furthermore, it is anticipated that players will be willing to
forego hitting the same jackpot multiple times because their focus
is typically on hitting the highest jackpot once.
[0123] These and other dynamic jackpot structures may be
implemented as either a player selected price parameter or an
operator selected price parameter. When implemented as a player
selected price parameter, the dynamic jackpot structure is
displayed to the player as a player selectable price parameter
option. The player, in turn, selects it via the player interface
264. When implemented as an operator selected price parameter, the
dynamic jackpot structure is displayed for player viewing prior to
player approval of the flat rate price. Whether the price
parameters are selected by the player or the casino operator, the
dynamic jackpot structure affects the flat rate price generally as
described above, namely, as a field in the calculation table 227 or
as a variable in the price algorithm.
[0124] In accordance with one embodiment, a player may be provided
with an opportunity to extend a flat rate play session that would
otherwise be considered to have concluded. For example, if it is
determined that a duration of a flat rate play session has come to
an end (e.g., the countdown of the time, outcomes or winning
outcomes purchased via the flat rate play session has reached
zero), the player may be provided with an opportunity to extend the
flat rate play session. For example, the player may be provided
with an opportunity to provide additional montetary value and/or
other consideration in exchange for an additional period of time,
additional outcomes to be added to the flat rate play session. Of
course, a player may be provided with such an opportunity to extend
a flat rate play session at times other than the end or conclusion
of the flat rate play session. For example, as a flat rate play
session is coming to an end (e.g., only 20 of 500 hands of video
poker remain in the flat rate play session), an offer may be output
to a player to extend the flat rate play session. For example, the
offer may comprise the following or like message "Would you like to
play an additional 50 hands of video poker? If so, simply insert
another $2.00."
[0125] In some embodiments, such an offer may be based on events
that have occurred during the flat rate play session. For example,
the content of the message may be customized based on whether the
player is or has recently experienced a winning streak (e.g., a
predetermined number or percentage of outcomes received by the
player are winning outcomes within a predetermined period of time)
or losing streak. For example, the message may be the following or
like message: "You're on a roll! Eight of your last ten hands have
been winning hands but your session is almost done! Do you want to
extend your session to continue your luck? If so, press yes."
[0126] As described, in some embodiments a player may be required
to provide some consideration in exchange for extending a flat rate
play session. For example, a price for extending a flat rate play
session may be calculated based on the expected value of the
extension (e.g., based on any of the factors described herein). In
one embodiment, a player may be allowed to extend a flat rate play
session without being required to provide any additional
consideration (e.g., the player may "win" an extension, be provided
an extension as a gift, be provided an extension if the players
behavior satisfies one or more predetermined criteria, etc.). In
one embodiment, a player may be provided an opportunity to provide
consideration other than monetary value in exchange for extending a
flat rte play session. For example, a player may be provided an
opportunity to extend a flat rate play session in exchange for (i)
performing an activity; and/or (ii) committing to perform an
activity in the future. It should be noted that the latter may be
associated with a penalty if the player fails to perform the
activity in accordance with the commitment. Such a penalty may
comprise, for example, charging the player a price for the
extension of the flat rate play session and/or withholding a payout
from the player. An activity that a player may perform or commit to
perform in exchange for extending a flat rate play session may
comprise, for example, (i) answering one or more survey questions
(e.g., for a casino or other entity), (ii) eating dinner at a
restaurant associated with a casino, (iii) making a purchase from a
retailer associated with the casino; (iv) listening to and/or
viewing an advertisement, (v) gamble for a predetermined amount of
time, (vi) gambling on a specified gaming device, type of gaming
device, or game, etc.; and/or (vi) providing information on at
least one other player or potential player (e.g., provide an e-mail
address of a friend who may be interested in purchasing a flat rate
play session).
[0127] An extension of a flat rate play session may be similar
(e.g., may define one or more parameters in a similar manner) to
the flat rate play session the player has completed or is in the
process of completing. In some embodiments, one or more of the
following elements may be dissimilar among an extension of a flat
rate play session and the flat rate play session as originally
purchased: (i) the extension may be of shorter duration (e.g., a
10-minute extension may be available after a 30-minute flat rate
play session concludes), (ii) the extension may have a different
price (e.g., if the duration is shorter, the price may be lower),
and/or (iii) the player may be allowed to begin the extension
period with the credit balance (positive or negative) carried over
from the previous flat rate play session. Thus, the duration and
starting balance of the extension may influence its price. For
example, if a players balance at the end of a flat rate play
session is considerably negative (e.g., -200 credits), the
extension duration may be short (e.g., five minutes), and a term or
condition of the extension may stipulate that the player must begin
with the ending balance of the previous flat rate play session.
Additionally, the extension may be provided at a relatively low
price (or even for free). In another example, if the players
balance at the end of a flat rate play session is considerably
negative (e.g., -200 credits), and the extension duration is short
(e.g., five minutes), the player may be sold an extension with a
starting balance of zero (e.g., "resetting" the player's balance),
albeit for a greater price. In a further example, a player with a
positive balance may be given the option of (i) keeping the
winnings, and purchasing an extension for a first price, or (ii)
forfeiting the winnings, and purchasing an extension for a reduced
price. The cost of the flat rate play session and prices of such
extensions may then be calculated in a manner similar to that
described previously.
[0128] It should be understood that, in some embodiments, a player
may request an extension of time for a flat rate play session, in
addition to or in lieu of being offered the extension without first
having to make such a request.
[0129] It should further be understood that, in some embodiments,
an offer for an extension of a flat rate play session may only be
output (whether in response to a player request for such an offer
or otherwise) if the player associated with the flat rate play
session qualifies for the offer. For example, in some embodiments
extension of flat rate play sessions (or extensions defining
certain parameters) may only be made available to players who are
associated with a certain status, who are members of a casino
loyalty club, who have completely satisfied the requirements of a
flat rate play session, who have maintained at least a minimum rate
of play during a flat rate play session and/or who have otherwise
satisfied a pre-requisite for being offered an extension of a flat
rate play session.
[0130] Although the foregoing preferred embodiments employ slot
machines, it is within the scope of the present invention to employ
other types of gaming devices, such as video poker machines, video
roulette machines, and the like. For example, in an embodiment
using a video poker machine, the player selected price parameters
include identifying only specific card hands, such as a royal
flush, as active in the jackpot structure.
[0131] Thus, while the present invention has been described in
terms of certain preferred embodiments, other embodiments that are
apparent to those of skill in the art are also intended to be
within the scope of the present invention. Accordingly, the scope
of the present invention is intended to be limited only by the
claims appended hereto.
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