U.S. patent application number 11/534492 was filed with the patent office on 2007-03-29 for head to head electronic poker game assembly and method of operation.
Invention is credited to Lyle Arnold Berman, Daniel Vincent Byrd, James T. III Crawford, Jonathan Talmadge Lester, Michael Scott Stanford, Gehrig Henderson White.
Application Number | 20070072682 11/534492 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 37894799 |
Filed Date | 2007-03-29 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070072682 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Crawford; James T. III ; et
al. |
March 29, 2007 |
HEAD TO HEAD ELECTRONIC POKER GAME ASSEMBLY AND METHOD OF
OPERATION
Abstract
An electronic poker game assembly preferably provides a
head-to-head poker game for two players. The assembly has a housing
that is preferably a table and contains at least a portion of a
computer system that generates and shuffles a virtual poker card
deck, deals the cards and performs other tasks typically associated
with a dealer. The housing supports an electronic player
interaction area (EPIA) for each player and a common display area.
Dealt virtual hole cards are displayed on screens of each EPIA and
virtual common cards are preferably displayed on a screen of the
common display area. Mechanical actuators for each EPIA are
operated by the players when playing poker, sending electric
signals to the computer system for play of the game.
Inventors: |
Crawford; James T. III;
(Charlotte, NC) ; White; Gehrig Henderson;
(Charlotte, NC) ; Berman; Lyle Arnold; (Las Vegas,
NV) ; Byrd; Daniel Vincent; (Matthews, NC) ;
Lester; Jonathan Talmadge; (Gastonia, NC) ; Stanford;
Michael Scott; (Charlotte, 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: |
37894799 |
Appl. No.: |
11/534492 |
Filed: |
September 22, 2006 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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60722019 |
Sep 29, 2005 |
|
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60822428 |
Aug 15, 2006 |
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60743436 |
Mar 8, 2006 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
463/46 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G07F 17/3276 20130101;
G07F 17/3293 20130101; G07F 17/32 20130101; G07F 17/322
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
463/046 |
International
Class: |
A63F 9/24 20060101
A63F009/24 |
Claims
1. An electronic poker game assembly for providing a head-to-head
poker game to first and second players, the assembly comprising: a
housing; a payment mechanism for initiating the poker game, and
supported by the housing; first and second electronic player
interaction areas supported by the housing, and each interaction
area having an electronic screen for the virtual display of playing
cards and at least one mechanical actuator for play of the poker
game by the respective first and second players; a computer system
coupled to the first and second electronic player interaction areas
for dealing a hand of the electronic poker game composed of virtual
cards, displaying computer dealt virtual cards on the screens and
administering the electronic poker game using electronic chips and
a virtual deck of poker playing cards, and for determining a winner
from among the first player and the second player and awarding a
pot to the winner at the end of the hand; and wherein the
electronic screen of the first electronic player interaction area
is concealed from view by the housing from the second player when
the second player is located at the second electronic player
interaction area, and the electronic screen of the second
electronic player interaction area is concealed from view by the
housing and from first player when the first player is located at
the first electronic player interaction area.
2. The electronic poker game assembly set forth in claim 1 wherein
a monetary deposit received by the payment mechanism provides a
predetermined number of hands of play.
3. The electronic poker game assembly set forth in claim 1 wherein
a monetary deposit received by the payment mechanism provides a
predetermined number of virtual chips.
4. The electronic poker game assembly set forth in claim 1 wherein
a monetary deposit received by the payment mechanism provides a
predetermined amount of time toward play.
5. The electronic poker game assembly set forth in claim 1 further
comprising a central display area supported by the housing and
communicating with the computer system, and having an electronic
screen for at least in-part the display of common virtual poker
cards dealt by the computer system.
6. The electronic poker game assembly set forth in claim 1 wherein
the at least one mechanical actuator has a trackball for the
selection of a bet amount.
7. The electronic poker game assembly set forth in claim 5 wherein
the at least one mechanical actuator has a trackball for the
selection of a bet amount displayed on the central display
area.
8. The electronic poker game assembly set forth in claim 1 further
comprising a keyboard/PIN pad displayed on the screens of the first
and second interaction areas for processing player accounts by the
computer system.
9. The electronic poker game assembly set forth in claim 8 further
comprising: a modem of the computer system in the housing; and a
server of the computer system communicating with the computer modem
for verification of licensing and uploading of game data to the
server.
10. The electronic poker game assembly set forth in claim 9 wherein
the modem is a cellular modem.
11. The electronic poker game assembly set forth in claim 6 further
comprising a keyboard/PIN pad displayed on the screens of the first
and second interaction areas for input and processing of respective
player accounts by the respective first and second players via
actuation of the respective trackballs.
12. The electronic poker game assembly set forth in claim 1 wherein
the at least one mechanical actuator has a fold button for folding
a dealt hand.
13. The electronic poker game assembly set forth in claim 1 wherein
the at least one mechanical actuator has a show-cards button for
revealing dealt hole cards viewed on the screens of the respective
first and second electronic player interaction areas to the
respective first and second players.
14. The electronic poker game assembly set forth in claim 1 wherein
the at least one mechanical actuator has a commit button for
committing an amount of a bet.
15. The electronic poker game assembly set forth in claim 7 wherein
the at least one mechanical actuator has a commit button for
committing an amount of a bet after selection by the trackball.
16. The electronic poker game assembly set forth in claim 1 further
comprising: a trackball of the at least one mechanical actuator for
the selection of a bet amount; a fold button of the at least one
mechanical actuator for folding a dealt hand; a show-cards button
of the at least one mechanical actuator for revealing dealt hole
cards viewed on the screens of the respective first and second
electronic player interaction areas to the respective first and
second players; and a commit button of the at least one mechanical
actuator for committing an amount of a bet after selection by the
trackball.
17. The electronic poker game assembly set forth in claim 16
wherein the screens are not touch activated screens.
18. The electronic poker game assembly set forth in claim 1 wherein
the screens are LCD screens.
19. The electronic poker game assembly set forth in claim 1 wherein
the assembly is self contained.
20. The electronic poker game assembly set forth in claim 19
wherein the housing is a table having a translucent top surface
with the screens disposed below the glass top.
21. The electronic poker game assembly set forth in claim 20
wherein the screens are located at the bottom of respective wells
defined in-part by the table and covered by the translucent top
surface.
22. The electronic poker game assembly set forth in claim 20
wherein the table is a sit-down cocktail table type.
23. The electronic poker game assembly set forth in claim 20
wherein the table is a player stand-up type.
24. The electronic poker game assembly set forth in claim 1 further
comprising a bluff detector supported by the housing.
25. The electronic poker game assembly set forth in claim 24
wherein the bluff detector is a two-contact heart rate monitor.
26. The electronic poker game assembly set forth in claim 5 wherein
each of the first and second electronic player interaction areas
has a bluff detector that measures heart rate of the respective
first and second players, and wherein measured results of the bluff
detectors are displayed on the central display area.
27. An electronic poker game assembly for providing a head-to-head
electronic poker game to first and second players, comprising: a
table having a table top with a playing surface having first and
second ends; a first electronic player interaction area located at
the first end of the table top; a second electronic player
interaction area located at the second end of the table top, the
first and second electronic player interaction areas providing a
player interface for interaction with the first and second players,
respectively; and a game computer coupled to the first and second
electronic player interaction areas for administering at least one
hand of the head-to-head electronic poker game using virtual cards,
determining a winner for the at least one hand, and awarding a pot
to the winner, each hand being composed of alternating turns
between the first and second players.
28. The electronic poker game assembly set forth in claim 27
further comprising at least one betting round with the game
computer providing the first and second players an opportunity to
make a wager or fold during the betting round.
29. The electronic poker game assembly set forth in claim 27
wherein the game computer administers the electronic poker game
using the virtual cards and virtual chips.
30. The electronic poker game assembly set forth in claim 27
wherein the electronic poker game is a version of Hold'em
Poker.
31. The electronic poker game assembly set forth in claim 27
wherein the electronic poker game is a version of Omaha Poker.
32. The electronic poker game assembly set forth in claim 27
wherein the game computer deals at least one hole card to each of
the first and second players, and wherein each hand of the first
and second players has at least one hole card and at least one
common card.
33. The electronic poker game assembly set forth in claim 32
further comprising a central display area orientated centrally upon
the table top for displaying information to the first and second
players, and wherein the game computer displays the common cards in
the central display area.
34. The electronic poker game assembly set forth in claim 27
wherein the game computer is integrated into the table.
35. The electronic poker game assembly set forth in claim 27
wherein the game computer is located remotely from the table.
36. The electronic poker game assembly set forth in claim 27
further comprising: a dealer selectively chosen between the first
and second players by the computer and for at least one hand of the
poker game; a big blind as designated by the computer and being the
other of the first and second players not selected by the computer
as the dealer.
37. The electronic poker game assembly set forth in claim 36
further comprising a virtual pot illustrated in the central display
area for virtual receipt of a big blind bet from the big blind and
as controlled by the computer.
38. The electronic poker game assembly set forth in claim 37
further comprising a little blind being the selected dealer and a
little blind bet received from the little blind and deposited in
the virtual pot as controlled by the computer.
39. A method of operation of an electronic head-to-head poker game
assembly comprising the steps of: a) positioning first and second
players in front of respective first and second electronic player
interaction areas of the assembly; b) dealing of a virtual hand of
virtual playing cards by a computer system of the assembly; c)
displaying at least one hole card face-down on respective
electronic screens of the first and second electronic player
interaction areas; and d) displaying discretely the at least one
hole card face-up by the computer system and in response to manual
movement of a mechanical actuator of either the first or second
electronic player interaction area by the respective first or
second player.
40. The method of operation set forth in claim 39 wherein the
mechanical actuator is a push button.
41. The method of operation set forth in claim 39 comprising the
further step of establishing a wager amount by one of the first and
second players through rotation of a trackball of the respective
first and second electronic player interaction areas.
42. The method of operation set forth in claim 41 comprising the
further step of displaying the wager amount on a central display
area by the computer system.
43. The method of operation set forth in claim 42 comprising the
further step of committing the wager amount through depression of a
commit button by the respective first and second players.
44. The method of operation set forth in claim 39 comprising the
further step of activating the poker game via insertion of credit
into a payment mechanism of the assembly prior to step (a).
45. The method of operation set forth in claim 39 comprising the
further steps of: designating one of the first and second players
as a dealer for a specific hand of the poker game by the computer
system between steps (a) and (b); and assigning the other of the
first and second players by the computer system as the small
blind.
46. The method of operation set forth in claim 45 wherein the small
blind places the initial wager.
47. The method of operation set forth in claim 39 comprising the
further step of selectively measuring the heart rate of at least
one of the first and second players by a bluff detector.
48. The method of operation set forth in claim 47 comprising the
further step of displaying the measured heart rate on a common
display area.
49. The method of operation set forth in claim 39 wherein dealing
of a virtual hand of poker includes the display of at least one
virtual common card in a central display area.
50. The method of operation set forth in claim 49 comprising the
further steps of: alternating turns between the first and second
players; and, determining a winner for the hand and awarding the
winner a pot by the computer system.
51. The method of operation set forth in claim 50 comprising the
further step of conducting at least one betting round per hand and
prior to the dealing of the at least one common card.
52. The method of operation set forth in claim 51 comprising the
further step of providing the first and second players an
opportunity to make a wager or fold during the betting round.
53. The method of operation set forth in claim 52 wherein the first
or second player folds by depressing a push button.
54. The method of operation set forth in claim 52 comprising the
further step of determining a remaining one of the first and second
players as the winner by the computer system.
55. The method of operation set forth in claim 54 comprising the
further step of uploading the game play history from a computer to
a server of the computer system.
56. The method of operation set forth in claim 55 comprising the
further step of reviewing game history by any one of the first and
second players over an internet connection with the server.
57. The method of operation set forth in claim 39 wherein virtual
chips are administered by the computer system.
58. The method of operation set forth in claim 39 wherein the
assembly controls an electronic poker game version of Omaha
Poker.
59. The method of operation set forth in claim 39 comprising the
further step of administering one or more betting rounds.
60. The method of operation set forth in claim 59 wherein the step
of administering one or more betting rounds includes the step of
managing a pot of virtual chips.
61. The method of operation set forth in claim 39 comprising the
further step of purchasing of virtual chips by the players.
62. The method of operation set forth in claim 44 comprising the
further step of crediting a number of hands to the players by the
computer system upon receipt of credit from the payment
mechanism.
63. The method of operation set forth in claim 44 comprising the
further step of crediting a time duration of play to the players by
the computer system upon receipt of credit from the payment
mechanism.
64. An electronic poker game assembly for providing a head-to-head
poker game for only a first and a second player, the assembly
comprising: a housing; only a first and a second electronic player
interaction area supported by the housing, and each interaction
area having an electronic screen for the virtual display of playing
cards and at least one mechanical actuator for play of the poker
game by the respective first and second players; a computer system
coupled to the first and second electronic player interaction areas
for dealing a hand of the electronic poker game composed of virtual
cards, displaying computer dealt virtual cards on the screens and
administering the electronic poker game using electronic chips and
a virtual deck of poker playing cards, and for determining a winner
from the first and second players and awarding a pot to the winner
at the end of the hand; and wherein the electronic screen of the
first electronic player interaction areas is concealed by the
housing and from the view of the second player when orientated at
the second electronic player interaction areas, and the electronic
screen of the second electronic player interaction area is
concealed by the housing and from the view of the first player when
orientated at the first electronic player interaction area.
65. An electronic poker game assembly for providing a head-to-head
poker game for a plurality of players, the assembly comprising: a
housing; a plurality of electronic player interaction areas
supported by the housing, and each interaction area having an
electronic screen for the virtual display of playing cards and a
trackball for at least partial play of the poker game by the
plurality of players; a computer system coupled to the plurality of
electronic player interaction areas for dealing a hand of the
electronic poker game composed of virtual cards, displaying
computer dealt virtual cards on the screens and administering the
electronic poker game using electronic chips and a virtual deck of
poker playing cards, and for determining a winner from the
plurality of players and awarding a pot to the winner at the end of
the hand; and wherein the electronic screen of any one of the
plurality of electronic player interaction areas is concealed by
the housing and from the view of the players when orientated at the
other ones of the plurality of electronic player interaction
areas.
66. An electronic poker game assembly for providing a head-to-head
poker game for a plurality of players, the assembly comprising: a
table having a table top; a plurality of electronic player
interaction areas supported by the table, and each interaction area
having an electronic screen recessed beneath the table top and for
the virtual display of playing cards, and at least one mechanical
actuator for play of the poker game by the plurality of players;
and a computer system coupled to the plurality of electronic player
interaction areas for dealing a hand of the electronic poker game
composed of virtual cards, displaying computer dealt virtual cards
on the recessed electronic screens and administering the electronic
poker game using electronic chips and a virtual deck of poker
playing cards, and for determining a winner from the plurality of
players and awarding a pot to the winner at the end of the hand.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional
Patent Application Ser. No. 60/722,019, filed Sep. 29, 2005, U.S.
Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/822,428, filed Aug. 15,
2006, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/743,436,
filed Mar. 8, 2006, all of which are hereby incorporated by
reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates generally to a poker game
assembly, and more particularly, to an electronic head-to-head
poker game assembly and method of operating the same.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Gaming is an increasingly popular form of entertainment.
Games, particularly, games of chance and skill in which one or more
players play and place wagers on the outcome thereof may be played
in a variety of ways, including at a casino or on the Internet. Of
the various forms of games which are available for play, many are
played with playing cards. Of these, poker is arguably the most
popular.
[0004] Traditionally, poker is played at a table with several
players wagering paper, coin money or chips 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, etc. One of the problems with traditional poker
is that it suffers from the possibility of human/dealer error. 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. Thus, another problem associated with
traditional poker games in this context is the training and
retention of dealers.
[0005] Video games often seen in bar and restaurant environments
are also known to incorporate limited aspects of poker. Such
poker-like video games, however, typically challenge a single
player only and thus the game is not a true form of poker and lacks
the enjoyment of the human element. That is, many people prefer to
play poker against other players, due in part to the drama
associated with "live" gaming. Undoubtedly, an elevated level of
competition exists when humans compete directly against one
another. Experienced players are trying to hone strategy and read
other players' intentions through their movements and style of play
to be more competitive.
[0006] More recent developments and disclosed in U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 11/073,774, "Electronic Card Table Having a
Display Device for Implementing Electronic Play Interaction Areas,"
filed Mar. 7, 2005 and assigned to the same assignee as the present
invention and incorporated herein by reference in it's entirety, is
a casino based electronic poker table system. This system
alleviates any possibility of dealer errors and is manageable in a
casino based environment. Such electronic tables are designed to
seat typically up to ten players with a focus of no less than three
or four players due in-part to player orientation and gaming rules
such as house collections. Unfortunately, these tables are complex
and generally not stand-alone. They typically require
computer-based servers for continuous interaction with the casino
establishment, the casino's floor management, and some form of
credit management for the distribution of credit, house rakes and
jackpot winnings. They are thus expensive and not practical for use
in social environments and establishments such as bars and
restaurants.
[0007] Moreover, the known electronic poker tables generally for
use in casinos do not necessarily cater to the preferences of, for
instance, restaurant patrons. Arguably, the typical bar or
restaurant patron prefers the feel of an "arcade" type game having
any variety of mechanics, such as mechanical buttons and trackballs
to further the excitement of the game. Known casino-based
electronic poker tables are generally video based having touch
interaction screens for use by the players. In fact, at a true
"casino" poker table, the mechanical operation of an arcade game
could be considered a distraction by many players.
[0008] The present invention is aimed at one or more of the
problems set forth above.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] An electronic poker game assembly preferably provides a
head-to-head poker game for two players. The assembly has a housing
that is preferably a table and contains at least a portion of a
computer system that generates and shuffles a virtual poker card
deck, deals the cards, administers virtual chips, determines a
winner from among the players, awards a pot to the winner at the
end of the hand, and performs other tasks typically associated with
a dealer. The housing supports an electronic player interaction
area (EPIA) for each player and a common display area. Dealt
virtual hole cards are displayed on screens of each EPIA and
virtual common cards are preferably displayed on a screen of the
common display area. Mechanical actuators for each EPIA are
operated by the players when playing poker, sending electric
signals to the computer system for play of the game.
[0010] Preferably, the table has a table top and the screens of the
EPIA are generally recessed below the table top. Each table has a
credit mechanism for accepting payment from the players to play the
game for a set period of time, a pre-established number of virtual
chips, or a set number of hands. Each EPIA may also have a bluff
detector for enhancing one's determination of whether their
opponents are bluffing. The mechanical actuators preferably have a
trackball for adjusting betting amounts, a commit button for
committing a bet, a fold button for folding a hand and a view
button for discrete viewing of respective hole cards.
[0011] A method of operation of the assembly includes a first step
where first and second players position themselves in front of
respective EPIA. A second step entails dealing of a virtual hand by
the computer system from the virtual card deck. When dealt,
electronic screens of each EPIA display virtual hole cards face
down. Each player can then manual move respective mechanical
actuators to discretely view their hole cards. Preferably, betting
can them be conducted by the players via manual actuation of the
trackball.
[0012] In one aspect of the present invention, the assembly is
arcade-like and generally self contained. Because money does not
exchange hands between players, the arcade-like assembly can be
used in establishments such as restaurants that do not having
gambling licenses. The computer system of the arcade-like assembly
has a computer preferably contained in the table that controls the
common display area, the EPIA and the dealer functions. Preferably,
the computer system has a server that may be remotely located for
approval of credit cards swiped in the credit mechanism. Game
history may be downloaded from the computer and to the server for
future viewing of the players preferably over the internet.
[0013] In another aspect of the present invention, the assembly is
casino-like and may conduct actual wagering where money does
exchange hands between players. The credit mechanism may include or
be substituted for a virtual pin pad for player access to
pre-established accounts. The server of the computer system for the
casino-like assembly may generally control the game for all the
tables.
[0014] Benefits and advantages of the present invention include an
automated electronic gaming system that is relatively inexpensive
and generally self-contained thus being ideal for establishments
such as restaurants not traditionally in the gaming industry. Other
advantages include a relatively compact design, accentuated
bluffing aspects, and a horizontal table top for the dual purpose
of beverage and food service and play of the game.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0015] Other advantages of the present invention will be readily
appreciated as the same becomes better understood by reference to
the following detailed description when considered in connection
with the accompanying drawings wherein:
[0016] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a head-to-head electronic
poker game assembly embodying the present invention;
[0017] FIG. 2 is a cross section view of the assembly taken along
line 2-2 of FIG. 1;
[0018] FIG. 3 is a view of a table top of the assembly illustrating
a common display area and two electronic player interaction areas
of the assembly during play;
[0019] FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a second embodiment of the
assembly;
[0020] FIG. 5 is a diagrammatic illustration of a computer of the
assembly;
[0021] FIG. 6 is a representation of a screen shot displayed on a
screen of the electronic player interaction area prior to play;
[0022] FIG. 7 is a block diagram of software components of the
assembly;
[0023] FIG. 8 is a flow chart of a method of operation of the
assembly; and
[0024] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of the
assembly in a casino or tournament-like environment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF INVENTION
[0025] With reference to the drawings and in operation, the present
invention relates generally to a head-to-head electronic poker game
assembly 10 and method of operating the same. With reference to
FIG. 1, the assembly 10 is generally self-contained and designed to
be situated in any variety of environments including bar and
restaurant environments where playing poker and/or gambling is not
necessarily the primary business of the establishment. More
specifically, the design of assembly 10 is such that the overall
configuration is relatively compact and inexpensive, thus enabling
it's use in establishments not just limited to casinos, and for
establishments with limited finances. The electronic game generally
controlled or played by the assembly 10 is preferably a Texas
Hold'em form of poker, but may also include any variety of card
games preferably played by a first player 12 and an opposing second
player 14 (as shown in FIG. 2).
The Assembly
[0026] Referring to FIGS. 1-5, in one embodiment, the assembly 10
has a computer system 15 having a computer 16 preferably located in
a housing 18 that controls at least in-part the poker game. That
is, the assembly 10 can handle all dealer functions, thus does not
require a human dealer. By eliminating the human aspect of a
typical poker table, it is economically more feasible to
manufacture poker tables or set-ups such as assembly 10 that are
smaller than the traditional casino type poker tables, and that
serve a limited number of players. The computer system 15 generates
electronic or virtual chips, accepts wagers and assigns a pot to
the winning player. For the game of Texas Hold'em poker, the
computer system 15 deals hole card(s) 17 to each player 12, 14 from
a virtual card deck generated and generally shuffled by the
computer system. The hole cards 17 are displayed as an
electronically generated image on first and second electronic
player interaction areas 22, 24 of the assembly 10 supported by the
housing 18 and orientated in front of each respective first and
second player 12, 14. Preferably, the housing 18 also supports a
central display area 26 for the display of dealt virtual common
cards 28 also dealt by the computer from the virtual card deck
20.
[0027] The housing 18 may be a table having a substantially
horizontal glass or clear table top 30 having a substantially
horizontal surface 32 for viewing of the central display area 26
orientated preferably below. One such table that is ideal for two
person play is a cocktail table. Preferably, the table top 30 spans
across the entire table 18 or a sizeable central portion 34 and may
be used for setting of beverages and food by patrons of the
establishment. The tempered glass that preferably carries the
horizontal surface 32 also functions to protect the electronic
components of the assembly 10 positioned below from spilt beverages
and food while being easy to clean or wipe-down. The table top 30
also has opposite wings 36, 38 that are cantilevered in
substantially opposite directions and outward from the central
portion 34. The wings 36, 38 support respective EPIA's 22, 24
in-part beneath the table top 30. A table base 40 projects upward
from the floor and to the central portion 34 for supporting the
table top 30 and preferably housing the computer 16 and other
components in a tamper proof encasement.
[0028] Preferably, the first and second wings 36, 38 slope slightly
downward as they project outward from the central portion 34. This
slight angle, such as that of a keyboard, adds comfort for the
respective player 12, 14 while hindering the ability of one player
to view the other player's virtual hold cards 17 displayed via
respective EPIA's 22, 24. Preferably, the wings 36, 38 are at a
sufficient height from the floor so that the players 12, 14 can
comfortably sit in respective chairs with knees located beneath the
wings 36, 38 and facing one-another thus generally being
head-to-head. Preferably, nothing projects above the table top 30
which would block the view of the opposing player. General full
view of the opposing player, as in traditional poker, is
advantageous for a player's determination of whether the opposing
player is bluffing through interpretation of facial expressions,
body language or body movement.
[0029] Each wing 36, 38 may further be a box-like structure for
encasing the respective EPIA's 22, 24 for tamper-proof protection
while including a lockable door or access panel beneath (not shown)
for ease of maintenance of the EPIA's. One skilled in the art,
however, would now know that the housing 18 can be any variety of
structures including a pedestal table with the players standing, a
portion of a bar with the players generally sitting side-by-side,
or some form of a modular arrangement capable of being placed on
any pre-existing surface of the establishment. Moreover, one
skilled in the art would now know that the assembly 10 may not be
limited to two players and could be arranged for play of two or
more players.
[0030] The head-to-head electronic poker game assembly 10 may
generally entail a self-contained arcade-like embodiment or a
casino-type embodiment. For simplicity of explanation, the
arcade-like applications such as that used in establishments not
licensed to conduct gambling where money exchanges hands between
players is described first. Although the computer 16 of the
arcade-like assembly 10 can be remotely located, it is preferably
located in the table base 40, and includes a processor capable of
running an operating system, such as Windows XP or Windows CE, both
available from Microsoft Corporation of Redmond, Wash. The computer
16 is coupled to and preferably controls, operates and runs the
central display area 26 and the EPIA's 22, 24. However, more than
one computer may be designed into the computer system 15. For
instance, each EPIA may actually be controlled via their own
computer that then communicates with the computer 16. Each central
display area 26 may also include a dedicated computer for all or
isolated functions such as the control and display of visual
advertisement.
[0031] Referring to FIG. 4, the computer 16 of the arcade-like
assembly 10 may also be connected to a remotely located server 42
of the computer system 15 through a network 13 and/or cellular
modem 44 for continuous or intermittent communication with the
server 42. The computer 16 may upload game play data to the server
42 for future review by the players 12, 14 over, for instance, the
internet 45. In another aspect of the present invention, the server
42 of the computer system 15 may be connected to a plurality of
computers 16 in a plurality of tables 18 of a plurality of
establishments or sites. The server 42 may then function to
intermittently verify game licensing stored in all the computers
16, and selectively deactivate/activate tables at remote sites. The
server 42 for the arcade-like assembly 10 may also implement and
facilitate, player tracking, ticket in ticket out (cashless)
wagering, tournament play, table set-up (including modifying table
parameters), and progressive jackpots.
[0032] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 5, the game computer 16 of the
generally self contained assembly 10 implements a game engine or
software 46 that deals the hands of the electronic poker game. The
hand of the electronic poker game comprises the virtual common and
hole cards 28, 17 of the card virtual deck 20. The game computer 16
displays the virtual cards 28, 17 on the EPIA's 22, 24 and/or the
central display area 26 and administers the electronic poker game
using electronic or virtual chips 48 and the virtual card deck
20.
[0033] In one embodiment, the individual EPIA's 22, 24 are used to
convey game information directly to the respectively assigned
players 12, 14 and to implement a mechanical set of actuators 50 of
each EPIA 22, 24 to effectuate interaction or input from the
players to the computer 16 (see FIGS. 1 and 3). The central or
common display area 26 is a monitor or electronic screen used to
display information to both players 12, 14. Each EPIA 22, 24 also
has an electronic screen 52 that is recessed beneath the table top
30 at the bottom of well 53 in respective wings 36, 38. In one
embodiment, the display area 26 and/or the screen 52 may be a LCD
or plasma monitor or similar device. In another embodiment, the
display area 26 and screens 52 may be one common electronic screen
without the wells 53 and with segmented areas controlled by the
computer 16. The glass table top 30 may contain the glass filters
generally located over the player EPIA's to obscure visual
recognition of hole cards 17 by the opponent or third parties
viewing from the side. The screens 26, 52 preferably do not have
touch activated capability. Instead, the mechanical set of
actuators 50 are utilized to add excitement to the game in the
arcade-like setting and to reduce overall cost of the assembly
10.
[0034] The screens 52 of the EPIA's 22, 24 and the central display
area 26 may be set apart from the rest of the table top 30 by
virtual borders. The areas of the display around the EPIA's 22, 24
and the central display area 26 may be used to simulate the table
surface of a standard poker table, e.g., an image of material, such
as green felt, may be displayed. Furthermore, logos, game
information, promotional information, advertisements,
announcements, pictures, videos, or other information may be
displayed, rotated, cycled, or displayed for a limited period of
time on display area 26 directly beneath the clear table top 30.
These videos can be played by a video device 49 such as a DVD-ROM
integrated into the computer 16 or in the alternative, the server
42 of the computer system 15.
[0035] The assembly 10 may include a virtual pin pad or keyboard 66
displayed discretely on the screen 52 of each EPIA 22, 24
preferably prior to game play. Such a pin pad 66 can be operated
via use of the trackball 54 for selection, and the commit button 58
for committing the selection. The pin pad 66 can be used for
registration of a player, thus allowing the player to review their
history of play at a later date preferably over the internet, and
for identifying and for recognition and congratulations of a game
winner. This recognition may include extended publication displayed
on the display area 26 for extended periods of time for the viewing
of all patrons of the establishment.
[0036] The mechanical set of actuators 50 of the EPIA's 22, 24
allow the player to take an appropriate action, such as bet, fold,
or call, during their turn. Unlike screen 52, the mechanical set of
actuators 50 protrude through the table top 30. Each set of
actuators 50 may have a trackball 54, a fold button 56, a commit or
action button 58, and a show-cards button 60. Each of the
mechanical actuators 50 are selectively activated by the computer
16 and when mechanically actuated, the respective actuator sends an
electrical signal to the computer 16 for processing.
[0037] When a player desires to make a bet, the trackball 54 may be
rotated to generally select the bet amount. This bet amount is
preferably committed when the player depresses the commit button
58. Alternatively, when the mechanical fold button 56 is depressed
by any one player the respective player's hand is folded. When the
show-cards button 60 is depressed by the player, the face down hole
cards 17 displayed on screen 52 are discretely revealed to the
player. Another system and method for controllably
displaying/obscuring the player's virtual hole card(s) is disclosed
in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/939,772, filed Sep. 13,
2004, assigned to the same assignee as the present invention, and
is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
[0038] During any round of betting, any player can fold by
depressing the fold button 56 of the mechanical set of actuators
50. Otherwise, the player may select a wager amount using the
trackball 54. The smallest bet amount, often referred to as the
check/call, is the base or origin position of the trackball 54. The
player increases the amount by rotating or rolling in-place the
trackball along a predetermined path, e.g., the vertical axis. The
bet amount increases relative to how far the trackball 54 is
turned, and will preferably reach its maximum when all virtual
chips 48 are in. Bet amounts will increase at predefined increments
relative to the big blind (e.g. 2.times., 3.times., 4.times.,
5.times., etc. . . . ). The trackball 54 can be spun rapidly to
progress the betting amount to the desired number of virtual chips.
Once the desired amount of chips is reached, the player commits the
amount by pressing the commit button 58. In one embodiment, the
rate of increase in the bet amount may be a function of the rate or
speed of the trackball 54. Additionally, the bet amount may
automatically be increased to a maximum bet amount as a function of
the speed of the trackball 54, e.g., when the speed equals or
exceeds a predetermined value. The bet amount, as it increases or
decreases may be shown numerically and/or visually as stack(s) of
chip(s).
[0039] In one embodiment, the computer 16 through the respective
EPIA 22, 24 selectively activates specific ones of the set of
actuators 50 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 have already been made, then
the trackball 54 may be inactive. Additionally, trackball 54 and
buttons 56, 58, 60 may be inactive when it is not the player's
turn. One skilled in the art would now know that a single push
button and/or trackball may perform multiple functions as
effectuated by the computer 16, and that the trackball 54 and/or
buttons could be replaced with any variety of mechanical devices
included that of a pivoting joy stick or wheel.
[0040] The assembly 10 provides player excitement in-part by having
the two players 12, 14 face one-another for the determination of
player bluffing through evaluation of facial expressions and body
language. This excitement is preferably further accentuated by a
bluff detector 62 of each EPIA 22, 24. The bluff detector 62 is
preferably a two-contact heart rate monitor having a contact pad 63
exposed through the table top 30 at each wing 36, 38. Heart rate
measurement data is generated when the players place two fingers
upon the pad 63. The data may be displayed on the central display
area 26 in real time and can be stored in the computer 16 or server
42 for future reference should a player 12, 14 wish to review prior
game play and factors that affect bluffing.
[0041] In one aspect of the present invention, the assembly 10
includes a sound generation device (not shown) that is used to
generate sounds audible to the players 12, 14. The sound generation
device may be implemented as an earpiece or headphones or one or
more speakers. Generated sounds may be categorized as system sound
or player sounds. System sounds include sounds that are intended or
suitable to be heard by everyone, including other players and
non-players. Player sounds include sounds that are intended to be
heard, but not necessarily only, by the player. Example, system
sounds may include sounds imitating the shuffling of virtual cards,
the dealing of cards, chips thrown into the pot, or 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.
Player exclusive sounds are sounds that can or should only be heard
by the player and may indicate an audible signal indicating the
player's hole cards or the highest hand of the player or a winning
percentage associated with the player's hand.
Revenue Generation
[0042] The assembly 10 has a payment mechanism 64 mounted to the
housing 18 and preferably at the base 40. The mechanism 64 may be
any variety of devices with any variety of revenue collecting
methods including the acceptance of cash or the swiping of a credit
card. The credit card information can then be sent by the modem 44
to the server 42 for approval. Preferably, patrons of the
establishment or restaurant who want to play a game of poker may
insert cash into the mechanism 64 that communicates directly with
the computer 16. The amount of money inserted may determine the
number of virtual starting chips 48. For instance, a deposit of
three dollars may get a predetermined number of value in virtual
chips and a deposit of five dollars may get a greater number or
value of virtual chips. The number of chips may increase linearly
with the deposit given, or in the alternative, a player may be
encouraged to maximize the deposit by providing a greater number of
chips than a linear relationship would otherwise dictate. The
number of chips indirectly affects the length of play time. That
is, for a five dollar deposit and assuming 75-90 hands per hour,
the tournament play should be about fifteen minutes. In another
aspect of the present invention, via a deposit, the player may be
directly purchasing a number of hands as oppose to chips.
[0043] Alternatively, the deposit may cause the computer 16 to
provide a time duration of play with or without additional options
revealed on the central display area 26. For instance, a first
option may be that the computer 16 provides the virtual chips 48
thus actual cash winnings never exchange hands between players 12,
14 and any award is simply game winner recognition. A second option
may be that the players 12, 14 utilize actual chips transferred
between players above the table top 30. This option would generally
cause the computer 16 to deactivate some of the features of the
mechanical actuators 50.
Screen Images and Virtual Components
[0044] Each electronic playing card of the virtual card deck 20 has
a front side and a back side. The back side of each card has an
identical pattern or image such that the cards cannot be
individually identified or told-apart when viewing the back side.
The virtual card deck may be a standard deck of fifty-two cards,
each card having a value. The value being two components: the first
component being one of a "two" through "ACE" and the second
component being one of four suits (hearts, diamonds, clubs,
spades). The value of each virtual card is indicated on the front
side of each playing card.
[0045] The image displayed on the back side 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 players 12, 14. The
image may include a video. In one embodiment, the image displayed
on the back side of the playing cards may be cycled through a set
of predetermined images. The image may be selectable by a user, who
may be the players 12, 14, an employee of the establishment, or by
a third party through the server 42 for purposes of indirectly
collecting advertisement revenue.
[0046] Prior to game play and during game registration, the
keyboard and or pin pad 66 is displayed discretely on the screens
52 of the EPIA's 22, 24. During game play, the screen 52 of the
EPIA's 22, 24 preferably displays only the virtual hole card(s) 17
and in the face down position to simulate traditional poker play.
Each player 12, 14 can discretely view their hole cards 17 by
depressing the show-cards button 60.
[0047] Referring to FIG. 3, the central display area or screen 26
may display advertising and/or previous game winner recognition as
previously described. During game play, the screen 26 graphically
displays the common cards 28, a pot 68 preferably in the form of
stacked virtual chips, and a dealer icon 70 for purposes of
betting. Adjacent to each EPIA 22, 24, the screen 26 also displays
bet staging 72 that is a graphical display of stacked virtual
chips, a hole card duplicate display 74 and an information field
76. The information field 76 lists my chips 78, opponent chips 80
and any variety of other game statistics 82 including blinds and
player rankings.
[0048] Rankings of the game statistics 82 may be based on previous
play. Preferably, a tiered system of player skill is also
instituted wherein the player can progress to new levels as their
experience increases. For instance, progressive skill levels could
be termed: fish, homne gamer, amateur, semi-pro, pro, shark, and
the like. These skill levels are preferably displayed in the
information field 76.
[0049] In another aspect of the present invention, the central
display area 26 may provide an indication of whose turn it is to
act. In one embodiment, the central display area 26 may provide an
appropriate signal, such an icon, e.g., an arrow or other symbol, a
sound such as a beep or musical tones, and/or a voice message. This
indication of a player's turn may be in addition to an indication
on the EPIA's 22, 24.
Software and Hardware
[0050] With particular reference to FIGS. 5 and 7, from a software
perspective the system 10 may be implemented using six program
groups: the game engine 46, a table server 84, a table client 86, a
table manager 88, a player client 90, and a cage manager 92. The
table server 84 is preferably associated with the server 42 and
implements the network communication, control and authentication as
well as inter-table functions (seat reservations, multi-table
tournaments). The game engine 46 administers the electronic poker
game and is responsible for all game functions, e.g., electronic
playing card deck generation, dealing, betting, determining winners
and awarding pots. The table client 86 is the graphical control for
the central display area 26. The player client 90 implements the
user interface for the EPIA's 22, 24 and the logic for capturing
player input and communication from the player input to the table
client server. The table manager 88 contains the user 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 92 provides
the ability to create and fund player accounts.
[0051] Preferably the computer system 15 of the assembly 10 can
boot from read-only media such as a DVD-ROM, so that the media can
simply be replaced for upgrade. A persistent media, such as a flash
drive, may be incorporated so that game data, cash-in, and the like
can be saved and retrieved.
Player Website
[0052] Referring to FIG. 4, the assembly 10 may include a player
website 94 that upon entry of an account/registration
identification, provides individual players the ability to view and
analyze hand history and even replay past tournaments preferably
via a flash plug-in or the like. Players would be able to see the
hole cards of their opponents online. Using the stored game data
off the server 42, all of the action could be replayed, including
the hand statistics, such as chance of winning, as each hand
unfolds. The experience is designed to make the player(s) 12, 14
feel as if they are watching themselves play on television in a
real professional tournament. Through the website, players may also
cash-in on player points, buy branded items, and purchase credit
for future play.
[0053] The website 94 may have a community area 96 for players to
share experience or create their own blog. They may also choose to
share replays of past tournaments with the community to invite
analysis and critique that of other players. Through the website 94
players can view their global ranking and personal statistics
across all sites and see how they compare against other
competitors. The website 94 may also be used for encouraging
participation in organized leagues and viewing of locations and
dates of special events.
Assembly Operation and Game Play
[0054] Referring to FIG. 8 and during operation of the assembly 10,
the two players 12, 14 position themselves 100 in front of
respective EPIA's 22, 24 and one of the two players 12, 14 deposits
cash into or swipes a credit card 102 across the payment mechanism
64. The amount of money inserted preferably determines the number
of virtual starting chips 48. For instance, a deposit of three
dollars may get 50,000 chips and a deposit of five dollars may get
100,0000 chips. The number of chips indirectly affects the length
of play time.
[0055] After the deposit of cash or credit card, each player 12, 14
preferably sets up or logs into a pre-existing account 104 by
entering their username/PIN using the trackball 54 to navigate the
keyboard and/or pin pad 66 and commit selections via the commit
button 58. If the player does not yet have a user account, the
player can skip this registration portion and set an account up
after the tournament or play completes. Such an account can also
later be established over a website via the server 42.
[0056] The game ideally suited for the assembly 10 is a version of
poker commonly known as Texas Hold'em, but may also be other
versions of poker such as Omaha Poker. For Texas Hold'em, the
computer system 15 first randomly assigns 106 a player to a dealer
position as indicated by dealer icon 70. If by chance player 12 is
designated as the dealer, the dealer icon 70 appears on the screen
26 near EPIA 22. The computer system 15 then automatically takes a
small blind from the virtual chips of player 14 and a big blind 108
from the virtual chips of player (dealer) 12. The small and big
blinds are compulsory bets wherein the big blind is typically twice
that of the small blind.
[0057] The game engine 46 of the computer system 15 then generates
a virtual poker card deck and deals 112 each player 12, 14 two
virtual hole cards 17 (the pre-flop), displayed face down on
screens 52 of the EPIA's 22, 24. After the hole cards 17 are dealt,
each player 12, 14 can discretely view their cards by pressing 114
the respective show-cards button 60 of the mechanical actuator 50
which sends an electrical signal to the computer system 15 causing
the system to reveal 116 the cards. Because the big blind was
previously placed by player 12, player 14 now has the action to
call, call and raise, or fold as is generally common in traditional
Texas Hold'em poker.
[0058] After the hole cards are dealt, the game engine 46
administers a first betting round and the computer system 15 will
indicate 118 which player 12, 14 has the turn to act. This
indication will preferably appear on the EPIA's 22, 24. In this
case, player 14 will know it's his/her turn to act by an
appropriate signal, such as an icon, either next to their name or
anywhere on the EPIA 24, a sound such as a beep or musical tones,
and/or a voice message.
[0059] At this juncture of play, player 14 may not check because
the big blind placed by player 12 plays as a bet. If player 14
calls, player 14 need not rotate the trackball 54 because the
computer 16 has already designated the minimum bet amount. That is,
if the big blind is twice that of the small blind, the minimum and
only bet amount in this instance is equal to the small blind
amount. To call, player 14 only needs to depress the commit button
58 and the computer 16 transfers the correct amount of virtual
chips 48 from the bet staging 72 and into the pot 68. If player 14
desires to call and raise 120, then player 14 must rotate the
trackball 54 generally vertically upward. The raise amount will be
indicated 122 as the bet staging 72 and may generally be in
increments that represent multiples of the big blind amount. If
player 14 overshoots his desired raise or the facial expression or
the recorded heart rate 124 of player 12 should cause player 14 to
change his/her mind, then player 14 can reverse or rotate the
trackball generally downward to reduce the raise. Once the raise
amount is determined, player 14 presses 126 the commit button 58
and the virtual chips from bet staging 72 are transferred to the
pot 68. If player 14 decides to fold 128 instead of call or raise,
then player 14 presses the fold button 56 and the pot 68 is awarded
130 to player 12 via the computer system 15.
[0060] Similarly, and after player 14 calls and/or raises the bet,
player 12 by utilizing EPIA 22, has the options to check if player
14 had only called which would end the betting round, raise the
call of player 14 which would continue the betting round, call the
raise of player 14 which ends the betting round, or raise the raise
of player 14 which would continue the betting round. Betting in
this way continues between players until one player folds or calls
without raising. Computer system 15 recognizes all betting options
in advance. For instance, for player 12 to check his/her bet after
player 14 has called, player 12 only needs to press the commit
button 58 because the computer has programmed the trackball 54 with
a minimum bid of zero in this instance.
[0061] Once the initial betting round ends, the computer 16 then
deals 134 the flop, which is preferably three virtual cards of the
common cards 28 face-up in the central display area 26. Because
player 12 remains the represented dealer, player 14 begins the
second round 136 of betting. Player 14 has the option to check or
bet and such is conducted as described above. If player 14 checks,
player 12 has the option to check which would end the betting
round. If player 14 bets, player 12 has the option to fold and the
pot goes to player 14, the option to call and the second betting
round is ended, and the option to raise the raise and the betting
round continues.
[0062] When the second betting round ends, the computer 16 deals a
turn card or the fourth common card 28 face-up, and which is imaged
in the central display area. This begins the third betting round
starting again with player 14. If neither player has folded, the
computer 16 deals a river card or the fifth common card 28 face-up
and a fourth betting round is conducted. After the fourth betting
round, if neither player has folded then a showdown begins. The
computer 16 automatically conducts the showdown by revealing both
player's hole card 17. This is done by flipping the duplicate
displays 74 on the central display area 26. Although the winner can
then be determined by the players, the computer system will
automatically announce the winner and award 138 the pot.
[0063] For the next hand, the computer system 15 will assign player
14 as the represented dealer and play begins accordingly. The poker
game continues by alternating 140 represented dealer designation
between players and from one hand to the next until one of the
players 12, 14 has won all of the virtual chips 48. The computer
system 15 determines and awards 142 the winning player.
[0064] During play, should a player receive a "bad beat," bonus
chips may be awarded giving the player further incentive to play
risky draws, and allowing them to stay in the game instead of
walking out over a bad beat. Extra chips may be awarded to the
losing hand based on their specific hand. For instance, pocket aces
of a losing hand could be awards two times the big blind amount of
chips, a flush may be awarded five time the big blind amount of
chips, and a full house may be awarded ten times the big blind
amount of chips. Moreover, a showdown odds feature may be included
wherein if a player is all-in before all the common cards are
dealt, the odds of either player's hand winning as the remaining
common cards are dealt is dealt preferably with some degree of
graphical drama.
[0065] Upon completion of a poker game, the computer 16 preferably
uploads the game history to the server 42. Either player can then
view 146 their game history preferably over the internet 45.
Modified Casino-Like Assembly
[0066] Referring to FIG. 9, a modified casino-like assembly 10' is
illustrated wherein similar components to that of the
self-contained arcade-like assembly 10 have the same identifying
numerals except with the addition of a prime symbol. The assembly
10' has a plurality of tables 18' preferably in a common area such
as that found in a casino environment. Like in a licensed casino
environment, a computer system 15' is preferably adapted so that
money does exchange hands between players 12', 14' while a casino
148 or licensed establishment collects revenue and/or rakes.
[0067] Assembly 10' is not necessarily self-contained in that the
common server 42' of the computer system 15' associated with all
the tables 18' may have and generally control the game engine 46',
the table server 84', the table client 86', the player client 88',
the table manager 90', and the cage manager 92' as generally
described previously for the arcade-like assembly 10. Each table
18' of the computer system 15' may have a dedicated computer 16'
for general control of game play not controlled by the common
server 42'. The close proximity of the tables 18' to one another is
particularly advantageous and adds excitement to, for instance,
tournament type play of poker. One skilled in the art however,
would now know that the tables 18' need not be localized for
tournament play and can be scattered about various establishments
yet linked by the common server 42'. Moreover, the computer 16' or
computer system 15' may be the server 42', which may be networked
to the multiple electronic poker tables 18'.
[0068] In one aspect of the present invention, the poker tables 18'
in the casino-like assembly 10' are networked and connected to one
or more servers 42'. The server 42' may be used to implement and
facilitate, player tracking, ticket in ticket out (cashless)
wagering, assigning player's to a seat at a particular table,
tournament play, table set-up (including turning the tables on and
off and modifying table parameters), and progressive jackpots. Each
table 18' may have one or more EPIAs 22'. In addition, other
devices may be connected to the server 42' for providing additional
features and/or functions. For example, a queuing system may be
provided (see below). This system may be implemented using a
separate computer which implements this function. The separate
computer may also implement other features or functions of the
system. It should be noted, however, that in some systems, these
additional features or function could be provided, at least in
part, by the server(s) 42'.
[0069] In one aspect of the present invention, the server 42' runs
the games. In other words, the server 42' 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, tracks the rake, etc. Game data is stored in a
database. Each input, wager, play, etc. is stored in the
database.
[0070] For tournament poker play facilitated by the casino-like
assembly 10', a predetermined number of head-to-head tables 18' are
designated through the server 42'. A buy-in, e.g., $100 is
required. Typically, after a player loses all of their money, they
are eliminated from the tournament. Under predetermined rules,
players may register for a tournament and be assigned to seats at
the head-to-head tables 18'. During play, under predetermined
rules, tables may be broken down and the players distributed to
other tables. The assembly 10' facilitates the tournament by
providing one or more of the following features: [0071] a)
Registration [0072] b) Tracking tournament information [0073] c)
Display of tournament information on central display and/or remote
display [0074] d) Tournament set-up, e.g., buy-in [0075] e) Re
buy-in [0076] f) Tournament jackpot, cash or entry voucher for
entry another tournament (specific tournament or expiration date)
[0077] g) Process for breaking tables [0078] (1) message that table
is breaking [0079] (2) convey new seat assignment [0080] (3)
determination of breaking order [0081] (4) display of breaking
order [0082] h) Display information on status of other tables and
players at other tables [0083] 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. [0084] j) Multi-site tournaments. [0085] k) System for
automatically paying players tournament winnings based on
tournament pay tables and their final position in the
tournament.
[0086] Preferably, the tournament poker games will be played to
completion and blinds will preferably double about every three to
five hands to ensure that the game does not continue for an
excessive amount of time. The games will progress through the
tournament levels until a winner is determined.
[0087] In one aspect of assembly 10' the poker games are timed,
i.e., the player's have a predetermined time period in which to
complete each turn. For example, the player's have a set period of
one minute to complete each turn. Alternatively, the period of time
may vary based, e.g., 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. Alternatively, each player may have
a bank of time. The time used to complete each turn may be deducted
from their time bank.
[0088] With regards to revenue collection by the casino, assembly
10' may collect revenue similar to assembly 10. Yet further, each
player may purchase virtual chips through previously established
accounts, and the casino establishment may collect revenue through
a "rake" method. The rake may be defined as a portion or percentage
of each pot that goes to the house or casino establishment for
running the poker game. The virtual pin pad or keyboard 66'
displayed discretely on the screen 52' of each EPIA 22', 24' may
allow each player to access pre-funded accounts (see FIG. 6).
[0089] In another aspect of the present invention, a table 18,
18`may have a plurality of EPIA`s 22, 22' greater than 2, e.g.,
six, eight, or ten. The EPIA's 22, 22' may be divided into
sub-groups, where each group may be playing amongst themselves. For
example, if there are ten players at a table, then the players may
be divided into 5 groups of two players each playing head-to-head
poker, 2 groups of five players each playing in a group of 5, or
any combination of players. In one embodiment, where the EPIA's are
divided into groups of two EPIA's 22, 22' to each group, each pair
of EPIA's 22, 22' may operate as a single head-to-head table 18,
18' as described above.
[0090] While the forms of the invention herein disclosed constitute
presently preferred embodiments many others are possible. It is not
intended herein to mention all of the possible equivalent forms or
ramifications of the invention. It is further understood that the
terms used herein are merely descriptive rather than limiting, in
that various changes may be made without departing from the spirit
and scope of this invention as defined by the following claims.
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